Cricket

IPL 2026: Rahuls Unbeaten 152 In Vain As PBKS Complete Record Chase, Beat DC By Six Wickets (Ld)

Arun Jaitley Stadium: On a sweltering 41-degree day, 529 runs were plundered in 38.5 overs in a keenly awaited IPL 2026 clash at the Arun Jaitley Stadium. In a match that yet again defined the modern-day scoring rate in T20 cricket, Punjab Kings scripted history by successfully upstaging their previous record to chase down 265 and defeat Delhi Capitals by six wickets. It was a day when records fell like ninepins, starting from a monumental, unbeaten 152 off 67 balls hit by KL Rahul - the highest score by an Indian batter in the IPL and mens T20 cricket. Rahuls innings was a blend of technical elegance and sheer boundary hitting, as he became only the third player in IPL history, after Chris Gayle and Brendon McCullum, to get a score above 150. Though Rahuls efforts and Nitish Ranas 91 off 44 balls, with the duo sharing a mammoth 220-run stand, took DC to 264/2, it was ultimately overshadowed by a collective display of breathless and ruthless batting from table-toppers PBKS. Chasing a gigantic 265, PBKS batters displayed breathtaking audacity, something which has been their trademark in the competition, to hunt down the total with seven balls to spare. The foundation of the record-breaking chase was a ferocious powerplay, where Prabhsimran (76 off 26 balls, nine fours and five sixes) and Priyansh Arya (43 off 17 balls) plundered 116 runs. Despite a brief middle-order wobble caused by Kuldeep Yadav, captain Shreyas Iyer anchored the finish with a composed, unbeaten 71 off 36 balls, studded with three fours and six sixes. Iyer was dropped twice by Karun Nair at the fag end and was well-supported by Shashank Singh (19 not out) as the table-toppers got over the line with clinical ease to prove that no target is safe in the current T20 cricket era. Pathum Nissanka got the scoreboard moving for DC with a flicked boundary off Arshdeep Singh, while Rahul kickstarted his innings by dispatching Xavier Bartlett through a drive and flick. Arshdeep provided a breakthrough in the third over as Nissanka top-edged a pull to the wicketkeeper. However, the setback did little to slow DC's momentum as Rahul finished the over with a massive pulled six. With Rana hitting four boundaries in his first ten balls, Rahul continued his aggressive approach, pulling Vyshak Vijaykumar and Marco Jansen for six and four. DC ended the powerplay at 68/1, their highest score in this phase in IPL 2026. After launching Yuzvendra Chahal over long-on for a maximum, Rahul reached his fifty in 26 deliveries. Rana shifted gears in sensational fashion to bring up his fifty off 29 balls with back-to-back scooped boundaries off Bartlett. Rahul showed no mercy, dismantling Arshdeep for three fours and a six, while showcasing a range of shots that left the PBKS fielders as mere spectators. He reached his century in 47 balls by punching Jansen down the ground and brought out his trademark celebrations. Rahul showed no signs of slowing down, carting Vyshak for three sixes and a boundary in a 24-run over. Rana survived a scare in the 17th over when Marcus Stoinis completed a sliding catch, but the third umpire ruled the boot had made contact with the boundary rope, resulting in a six. Rana eventually fell for 91, as Iyer took a stunning one-handed catch at extra cover. Rahul then scooped and upper-cut to go past 150, as DC put PBKS on the path of what appeared to be an insurmountable total. Arya launched the chase in style by smashing the first ball from Auqib Nabi over mid-wicket for six - his second such feat in the IPL and joined Yashasvi Jaiswal in this rare club. When Nabi pitched it too short, Prabhsimran pulled him for a six, as 15 runs came off the opening over. After Nabi put down a chance of Prabhsimran at backward point, Arya whipped a full toss for six, while Prabhsimran punished loose deliveries to get a four and six. The chase, however, was momentarily overshadowed by a serious head injury to DC pacer Lungi Ngidi in the third over. Attempting a difficult backtracking catch after Arya mistimed off Axar Patel, Ngidi landed heavily on his head and had to be stretchered off the field in an ambulance, amid silent and concerned faces in both teams and fans inside the stadium. Once play resumed, PBKSs aggression reached a fever pitch. Priyansh hammered Axar for successive sixes, and was followed by him and Prabhsimran taking 27 runs off Nabi in the fourth over, including three sixes hit by the latter. The Powerplay concluded with Mukesh being decimated for six consecutive fours by a rampant Prabhsimran, who reached his fifty in 18 balls, as 24 runs came off it for PBKS to sign off with 116/0. Some respite came for DC when Arya holed out to deep midwicket for 43 off 17 balls. Kuldeep Yadav turned the tide for DC - trapping Prabhsimran lbw before castling Cooper Connolly with a googly. Despite the double blows, Shreyas Iyer and Nehal Wadhera hit five boundaries between themselves from overs 11-15 to keep the asking rate in check. Priyansh hammered Axar for successive sixes, and was followed by him and Prabhsimran taking 27 runs off Nabi in the fourth over, including three sixes hit by the latter. The Powerplay concluded with Mukesh being decimated for six consecutive fours by a rampant Prabhsimran, who reached his fifty in 18 balls, as 24 runs came off it for PBKS to sign off with 116/0. Also Read: Live Cricket Score Brief Scores: Delhi Capitals 264/2 in 20 overs (KL Rahul 152 not out, Nitish Rana 91; Arshdeep Singh 1-49, Xavier Bartlett 1-69) lost to Punjab Kings 265/4 in 18.5 overs (Prabhsimran Singh 76, Shreyas Iyer 71 not out; Kuldeep Yadav 2-46, Vipraj Nigam 1-24) by six wickets. Article Source: IANS

IPL 2026: 'We Are Focusing On Execution,' Says Varun Aaron On SRH Bowling Plan

Indian Premier League: Sunrisers Hyderabad (SRH) bowling coach Varun Aaron has stressed the importance of execution and collective team effort as his side clashes with the Rajasthan Royals(RR) in their eighth match of the Indian Premier League (IPL) 2026 at Sawai Mansingh Stadium on Saturday. Reflecting on the teams journey so far, Aaron highlighted how SRH have managed to recover well after early setbacks in the tournament, thanks to different players stepping up at different times. The way we bounced back from the first two defeats has been really pleasing. In some matches, the batters delivered, and in others, the bowlers stepped up when the batting didnt work. Thats the kind of team game we need all the way to the final, he said to broadcasters before the match. Aaron pointed out that such a balance across departments is essential in a format like T20, where momentum can shift quickly, and no single unit can guarantee success every game. Speaking about the approach going forward, the former Indian pacer made it clear that the teams focus remains on sticking to basics, especially for bowlers who often have limited margin for error in high-scoring games. The message is very simple: we are focusing on execution. In T20 cricket, conditions can favour either batters or bowlers. But as a bowler, the only thing you can rely on is yourself and your execution, Aaron explained. He added that adapting quickly to match situations and trusting ones skills is crucial, particularly in pressure moments when games can turn in just a few overs. Aaron also spoke about the evolving nature of T20 batting and the importance of fearless intent at the top of the order. Comparing aggressive openers like Sooryavanshi and Abhishek Sharma, he said both share a similar mindset that is becoming increasingly vital in modern cricket. He added that adapting quickly to match situations and trusting ones skills is crucial, particularly in pressure moments when games can turn in just a few overs. Also Read: Live Cricket Score Meanwhile, captain Pat Cummins is back for SRH and leading the side for the first time in the season. Cummins has replaced Dilshan Madushanka, while Praful Hinge is back in place of Harsh Dubey in the SRH playing XI. Article Source: IANS

L-G TS Sandhu Joins Spectators In Cricket Stadium To Cheer Delhi Team

Delhi Lieutenant Governor: Delhi Lieutenant Governor T.S. Sandhu on Saturday donned the colours of the Delhi Capitals IPL team and joined thousands of cricket fans at Arun Jaitley Stadium in cheering the citys team. As Sandhu, wearing a blue DC T-shirt, occupied a seat in the public stands, his co-spectators clicked selfies with him and cheered the home team with him. In a post on social media, the Lieutenant Governor said, Enjoyed the electrifying contest between @DelhiCapitals and @PunjabKingsIPLat the Arun Jaitley Stadium today. The energy in the stands reflects the vibrant sporting spirit of our capital. Beyond the action on the field, its the passion and enthusiasm of the youth that bring the game to life. Wishing both teams the very best - may the game be played in the finest spirit of sportsmanship! he said. Sandhus public appearances and free mingling with citizens during his visits to colonies and commercial areas appear to be rewriting the rules of accessibility for the top-most constitutional functionary in the Delhi administration. In the past, he has interacted with citizens during surprise visits to Chandni Chowk, Delhi University, Connaught Place and other areas, emphasising that a direct on-ground engagement ensures that administrative execution remains aligned with the highest standards of service delivery. The Lieutenant Governor had visited the cricket stadium earlier this month as well. A day before an IPL match between DC and MI, Sandhu visited the Arun Jaitley Stadium here on April 3 to review the preparations and interacted with players and ground staff. In a post on X, the L-G said: Visited the Arun Jaitley Stadium today and interacted with players ahead of tomorrows much-anticipated IPL encounter between @DelhiCapitals and @mipaltan. The Lieutenant Governor had visited the cricket stadium earlier this month as well. A day before an IPL match between DC and MI, Sandhu visited the Arun Jaitley Stadium here on April 3 to review the preparations and interacted with players and ground staff. Also Read: Live Cricket Score Also interacted with @ImRo45 and @surya_14kumar from the Mumbai Indians squad. It is always encouraging to see such world-class talent and experience representing the very best of Indian cricket, he said. Article Source: IANS

IPL 2026: Various Tests Underway On Injured DC Pacer Ngidi, Results Awaited

Max Super Speciality Hospital: Delhi Capitals pacer Lungi Ngidi is undergoing medical tests at a city hospital after suffering a nasty head injury during the IPL clash at the Arun Jaitley Stadium, with the result of those reports still awaited. Various tests are still being conducted on injured Delhi Capitals pacer Lungi Ngidi at the Max Super Speciality Hospital in Karol Bagh. Reports of it are still awaited. It is to be noted that he was unconscious when he was taken off the field in the ambulance, said sources at the venue to IANS on Saturday. In the IPL 2026 clash at the Arun Jaitley Stadium, Ngidi fell awkwardly while attempting to take a catch off Priyansh Arya in the third over of Punjab Kings chase. Arya tried to loft Axar Patel over mid-off, but Ngidi backtracked from mid-off, misjudged the trajectory, and fell heavily on his backside. In the process, Ngidi hit the back of his head onto the ground and grimaced in pain for a long time. Everyone on the field wore tense expressions as medical staff rushed in, with the DC physio and team doctor attending to Ngidi on the ground, as play was halted for 15 minutes. A stretcher was brought out as the crowd fell silent, sensing the seriousness of the situation. Ngidis teammates David Miller and Tristan Stubbs looked visibly shaken, while DC coach Hemang Badani gestured for a neck brace to be applied to him. In the process, Ngidi hit the back of his head onto the ground and grimaced in pain for a long time. Everyone on the field wore tense expressions as medical staff rushed in, with the DC physio and team doctor attending to Ngidi on the ground, as play was halted for 15 minutes. Also Read: Live Cricket Score A neck brace was slid under his head before he was strapped onto the stretcher and then taken off the field in an ambulance. Ngidi was replaced in DCs playing eleven by leg-spin bowling all-rounder Vipraj Nigam, who came in as a concussion substitute. Article Source: IANS

Cummins returns as SRH opt to bowl vs RR

This was SRH's first toss win of the season: stand-in captain Ishan Kishan had lost all seven he had contested

Surging CSK meet stuttering GT in Chennai heat

Both teams have three wins from seven games but seem to be heading in opposite directions

Pathirana boost for KKR against LSG as No. 10 meets No. 9

LSG have lost four matches in a row, while KKR registered their first win of the season only in their previous outing

IPL 2026: Pat Cummins Back As SRH Opt To Bowl Against RR

Indian Premier League: Sunrisers Hyderabad (SRH) have won the toss and elected to bowl first against Rajasthan Royals (RR) in match 36th of the Indian Premier League (IPL) 2026 at the Sawai Mansingh Stadium on Saturday. Captain Pat Cummins is back for SRH and leading the side for the first time in the season. Cummins has replaced Dilshan Madushanka, while Praful Hinge is back in place of Harsh Dubey in the SRH playing XI. SRH is coming to the contest after a dominant win over the Delhi Capitals. They have won four out of seven matches and are placed at number four in the points table with eight points and a positive net run rate of +0.820. The Rajasthan Royals are also entering the match with a big victory over the Lucknow Super Giants (LSG) in their last match. They have won five out of seven matches and are placed at number 2 in the points table with 10 points and a positive net run rate of 0.790. After winning the toss, SRH skipper Cummins spoke about returning after injury and team performance so far. We're going to have a bowl first. The wicket looks good, but we have to see what we need to chase down. Still really fresh. It's been a little while, but I've had really good preparation, a couple of bowls over here. I haven't played a game for a while, so we'll see how we go. But the body feels awesome, he said after winning the toss. On Ishan Kishan's captaincy, he said, He's fantastic. Yeah, four wins from the first seven games. I think he played the style that we really try and lead into here at SRH, that aggressive, fearless style approach. We know the pitch really well in Hyderabad. I think the challenge when you go play away is trying to sense what a good score is, what short work or ball work. So I think it's the first game for this venue for the season, so it'll be a challenge for both teams. Yeah, I've come in for Madushanka, and Hinge has come in, Harsh Dubey, he added. While after losing the toss, RR captain Riyan Parag said, We were looking to do that as well. But the last couple of seasons, we have not done well chasing, no problems batting first. We know the wicket really well. We had our camp here. There might be dew, but it won't be too much. Last year we fell short by a couple of overs, just want to put a collective 40 overs. The middle order has to step up and the others. Playing XIs: Rajasthan Royals: Yashasvi Jaiswal, Vaibhav Sooryavanshi, Dhruv Jurel(wk), Riyan Parag(c), Shimron Hetmyer, Donovan Ferreira, Ravindra Jadeja, Jofra Archer, Tushar Deshpande, Brijesh Sharma, Nandre Burger Impact substitutes: Ravi Bishnoi, Lhuan-dre Pretorius, Ravi Singh, Shubham Dubey, Sandeep Sharma. Rajasthan Royals: Yashasvi Jaiswal, Vaibhav Sooryavanshi, Dhruv Jurel(wk), Riyan Parag(c), Shimron Hetmyer, Donovan Ferreira, Ravindra Jadeja, Jofra Archer, Tushar Deshpande, Brijesh Sharma, Nandre Burger Also Read: Live Cricket Score Impact substitutes: Travis Head, Smaran Ravichandran, Harsh Dubey, Liam Livingstone, Harshal Patel Article Source: IANS

3rd ODI: Pereras 95 Leads Sri Lanka Women To Series Win Over Bangladesh

Sri Lanka Women: Hasini Perera played a brilliant knock of 95 runs as Sri Lanka Women completed a strong comeback in the ODI series with a comfortable seven-wicket win over Bangladesh in the final match of the series played at the Shahid Kamruzzaman Stadium on Saturday. With this, they have also clinched the series by 2-1. Coming to bat first after losing the toss, the Bangladesh team scored 213 runs after losing 8 wickets in 50 overs with the help of a brilliant innings from Sobhana Mostary. While Sri Lanka chased a total in just 46.3 overs with the help of an amazing knock by Hasini Perera. The chase did not begin perfectly for Sri Lanka as captain Chamari Athapaththu was dismissed early for 10 runs by Marufa Akter. However, Hasini Perera steadied the innings and took control of the chase. Perera played a calm and composed knock, scoring 95 runs off 131 balls, hitting 13 boundaries. She built a crucial 108-run partnership with Imesha Dulani, who contributed a solid 56 from 79 balls. Their stand laid the foundation for the chase and put Sri Lanka firmly in control. After Dulani was dismissed, Perera continued her good work and added another important partnership of 78 runs with Harshitha Samarawickrama. Harshitha remained unbeaten on 44 and played a key role in finishing the match. Perera looked set for a well-deserved century but fell for 95, caught off the bowling of Sobhana Mostary with just nine runs needed. Despite that, Sri Lanka comfortably reached the target, with Hansima Karunaratne supporting Harshitha at the end. Earlier, Bangladesh Women posted 213 for 8 after being asked to bat first. Their innings started poorly as they lost early wickets, putting them under pressure. A recovery came through a 65-run partnership between Sobhana Mostary and captain Nigar Sultana. Sobhana was the top scorer with 74 runs off 80 balls, hitting eight fours, while Nigar added 40 runs. However, Bangladesh struggled to build momentum in the later stages. Wickets kept falling at regular intervals, and they could not accelerate as much as they would have liked. Ritu Moni added a useful 20 runs lower down the order, helping the team cross the 200-run mark. For Sri Lanka, Kavisha Dilhari was the standout bowler with three wickets, while Nimasha Meepage picked up two. Malki Madara and Athapaththu also chipped in with one wicket each. In the chase, Sri Lanka maintained control throughout, especially after the big second-wicket partnership. Bangladesh bowlers tried to fight back, with Marufa Akter picking up two wickets, but they could not break the key partnerships at the right time. For Sri Lanka, Kavisha Dilhari was the standout bowler with three wickets, while Nimasha Meepage picked up two. Malki Madara and Athapaththu also chipped in with one wicket each. Also Read: Live Cricket Score Brief Scores: Bangladesh women 213/ 8 in 50 overs (Sobhana 74, Nigar 40, Dilhari 3-48) lost to Sri Lanka 214/3 in 46.3 overs (Perera 95, Dulani 56, Marufa 2-49) by 7 wickets. Article Source: IANS

Warner, Hendricks keep Karachi Kings alive for now

Kings now wait and watch - they need both Kingsmen and Qalandars to lose their last league games

Lungi Ngidi taken off the field in ambulance after head injury against PBKS

DC fast bowler hit his head hard on the ground while attempting to take a catch

IPL 2026: Lungi Ngidi Suffers Nasty Head Injury, Stretchered Off At Arun Jaitley Stadium

Arun Jaitley Stadium: Delhi Capitals fast bowler Lungi Ngidi suffered a frightening head injury while attempting to take a catch during the ongoing IPL 2026 clash against Punjab Kings at the Arun Jaitley Stadium, and was stretchered off the field in an ambulance. The incident occurred in the third over when left-handed opener Priyansh Arya tried to loft Axar Patel over mid-off. Ngidi backtracked for taking the catch, but misjudged the trajectory, and fell heavily on his backside. In the process, Ngidi hit the back of his head onto the ground. But Ngidi stayed down in visible pain for a longer time, as everyone on the field wore tense expressions. Medical staff rushed in, with the DC physio and team doctor attending to Ngidi on the ground. A stretcher was brought out as the crowd fell silent, sensing the seriousness of the situation. Ngidis teammates David Miller and Tristan Stubbs looked visibly shaken, while DC coach Hemang Badani gestured for a neck brace to be applied to him. To add more to the scary and disturbing scenes, an ambulance was wheeled onto the ground as doctors and physios along with players and coaches surrounded the pacer. Though Ngidi was able to communicate with the medical staff via hand gestures, he wasnt able to move his neck and head regions. A neck brace was slid under his head before he was strapped onto the stretcher. Ricky Ponting, head coach of Punjab Kings, also walked to the middle to check on Ngidi. Ngidis teammates David Miller and Tristan Stubbs looked visibly shaken, while DC coach Hemang Badani gestured for a neck brace to be applied to him. To add more to the scary and disturbing scenes, an ambulance was wheeled onto the ground as doctors and physios along with players and coaches surrounded the pacer. Also Read: Live Cricket Score Dushmantha Chameera, the Sri Lankan pacer, has now been named as a concussion substitute for Ngidi for the remainder of the clash, which resumed nearly 15 minutes later. The hope remains that Ngidi recovers totally from what appeared to be a very nasty blow to his head. Article Source: IANS

IPL 2026: I Was Just In A Mindset To Hit Boundaries And Put Pressure On The Bowlers, Says Rahul

Lucknow Super Giants: After hitting a majestic 152 not out to power Delhi Capitals to a gigantic 264/2, wicketkeeper-batter KL Rahul said his approach was centered on playing proper cricketing shots and maintaining pressure on the opposition bowlers, while also praising Nitish Rana for his phenomenal knock of 91 in their 220-run partnership. By hitting an unbeaten 152 off 67 balls, laced with 16 fours and nine sixes at a strike rate of 226, Rahul now holds the record for the highest individual score by an Indian batter and the third highest overall in IPL history after Chris Gayle and Brendon McCullum. Rahul also went past Tilak Varma to now hold the record for the highest individual score by an Indian batter in mens T20s. I'm obviously happy. I've taken a beating due to the heat, just need to hydrate and recover. So it's mixed emotions at the moment. I hope I don't cramp later on. I mean only towards the end was I premeditating. Early on, I think for the first 70-80 runs, I wasn't really premeditating. I was just in a mindset to hit boundaries and put pressure on the bowlers. My strength is always to play proper cricket shots and I was trying to back that and try and believe that that's good enough to get my team past 250 and I continued to do that. Only at the back end was I premeditating and when the field is set, when the bowlers go to the wide off-field or a spinner field, you know kind of what to expect, said a tired Rahul in a mid-innings chat with the broadcasters. Rahul is also the first player in IPLs history to score multiple centuries for three different franchises DC, PBKS and Lucknow Super Giants. Rahul and Ranas spectacular 220-run stand is also a record for the second-highest partnership in IPL history. Phenomenal knock from Nitish. The way he came in and you know, I think when you can hit proper cricket shots and get boundaries in the first six overs and continue to do that, I think the bowling team feels a lot more pressure when you're when you're trying to hit big sixes or trying to slog, then the opposition already feels like they're in with a chance. Rahul is also the first player in IPLs history to score multiple centuries for three different franchises DC, PBKS and Lucknow Super Giants. Rahul and Ranas spectacular 220-run stand is also a record for the second-highest partnership in IPL history. Also Read: Live Cricket Score I think he did that beautifully and I think right hand, left hand combination worked as well. The wicket was on the on the slower side, but I think both of us were seeing the ball really well, so we just continued batting and continued putting pressure on the bowlers, added Rahul. Article Source: IANS

Sarmin Sultana Earns Call-up As Bangladesh Announce 15-player Squad For SL T20Is

SL T20Is: Bangladesh have drafted top-order batter Sarmin Sultana into their squad for the upcoming womens T20I series against Sri Lanka, with Fargana Hoque making way in the 15-member group. The squad announcement came as soon as the ODI leg of the home series concluded in Rajshahi on Saturday, where Sri Lanka clinched the three-match series 2-1. Bangladesh will now aim to regroup and address concerns, particularly with the bat, after an inconsistent showing in the 50-over format. Sarmin, who is yet to make her T20I debut, earned a recall to the ODI side earlier this year after a long gap but had a modest return, scoring 42 runs across three outings. Despite that, the selectors have backed her inclusion as they look to bolster the top order ahead of a crucial stretch in the shortest format leading to the Womens T20 World Cup. The batting unit is expected to once again rely heavily on skipper Nigar Sultana, along with Sobhana Mostary and Sharmin Akter, all of whom showed glimpses of form during the ODI series. Hoque, who has been left out, featured in just one match and managed 11 runs. On the bowling front, Bangladesh appear relatively settled. Young pacer Marufa Akter is set to spearhead the attack with the new ball, while left-arm seamer Fariha Trisna could play a key role, especially on the more responsive surfaces in Sylhet. The spin department will once again be marshalled by vice-captain Nahida Akter, alongside Rabeya Khan, Sultana Khatun and Fahima Khatun. The quartet will be keen to deliver improved performances after struggling to maintain pressure in ODIs. On the bowling front, Bangladesh appear relatively settled. Young pacer Marufa Akter is set to spearhead the attack with the new ball, while left-arm seamer Fariha Trisna could play a key role, especially on the more responsive surfaces in Sylhet. Also Read: Live Cricket Score Squad: Nigar Sultana (captain), Nahida Akter (vice-captain), Dilara Akter, Sobhana Mostary, Fahima Khatun, Sharmin Akter, Ritu Moni, Shorna Akter, Rabeya Khan, Sarmin Sultana, Marufa Akter, Fariha Trisna, Sultana Khatun, Sanjida Akter Meghla, Juairiya Ferdous. Article Source: IANS

'His Fielding Level Has Got To Go Up': Bishop Criticises Sundar After Kohli's Catch Drop

Former West Indies: Former West Indies cricketer Ian Bishop expressed concern over Washington Sundars fielding standards after the all-rounder dropped a crucial catch of Virat Kohli during the clash between Royal Challengers Bengaluru (RCB) and Gujarat Titans (GT) at the M.Chinnaswamy Stadium on Friday, a moment that proved decisive in the outcome of the match. After being put in to bat, Gujarat Titans posted a competitive 205/3, but a crucial moment unfolded in the very first over of RCBs chase when Kohli was dropped on zero by Washington Sundar off the bowling of Mohammed Siraj. The missed opportunity proved decisive as Kohli went on to anchor the chase with a brilliant 81 off 44 balls, guiding the defending champions towards victory. No, I see that differently. Yeah. We've all dropped catches. Sure. You don't pick and choose which ones you drop. Okay. Right? Bishop told ESPNCricinfo. Bishop, however, emphasised the need for improvement from Sundar in the field, stating that the youngster has a lot of time left and should focus on his fitness to be more useful for the team. But what I would, I would ask Washy, Washington Sundar, your level of fielding has got to go up. I think Washy is not; he's a young guy. He's athletic enough, he said. And for too long, I'm seeing missed opportunities with him. So I would ask him to put a little bit more work into that. So he becomes an asset in the field, in addition to all the other things, Bishop added. Former South Africa pacer Dale Steyn also weighed in on the costly dropped catch, stressing that certain chances in cricket simply cannot be missed, especially when it involves a batter of Virat Kohlis calibre. Steyn highlighted that while dropped catches are part of the game, there are moments that demand absolute precision, and this was one of them. And for too long, I'm seeing missed opportunities with him. So I would ask him to put a little bit more work into that. So he becomes an asset in the field, in addition to all the other things, Bishop added. Also Read: Live Cricket Score That catch. Actually, it doesn't matter who it is. You just can't drop that. That's 10 out of 10; you should be taking it. I mean, the cricketers, there are those you drop. There are those you just can't drop, he added. Article Source: IANS

Uncapped Sarmin included in Bangladesh's squad for T20Is against SL

Uncapped top-order batter replaces Fergana Hoque for the three-match series that starts on Tuesday

Sudharsan Need To Step Up His Aggression Level: Ian Bishop

Former West Indies: Former West Indies cricketer Ian Bishop pointed out the lack of speed in Gujarat Titans opener batter Sai Sudharsan's after his breathtaking IPL century against Royal Challengers Bengaluru (RCB) and stated that he needed to tep up his aggression level in his batting approach. Sudharsan lit up the M. Chinnaswamy Stadium with a sensational 100 off 58 and in the process etched his name in the IPL records by becoming the fastest batter to reach 2,000 runs. But it wasnt enough as GT went down fighting against RCB by five-wickets in a high-scoring clash. Sudharsan, who was the Orange Cap winner from IPL 2025, had a patchy start to IPL 2026 as he had just one fifty-plus score before his century against RCB. He's one of the guys that needed to step up his aggression level. For the most part of that innings, I thought he was outstanding for a very orthodox player, Bishop said on ESPNcricinfo's TimeOut. I think that hundred would be very, very pleasing for him and for the GT dugout, and for the IPL as a whole, because here's another guy who gets another hundred - they've been coming in thick and fast in the last week and a half, hasn't it? He certainly did his part. If we're asking other guys that should have stepped up, at least Sai Sudarshan did his part. Meanwhile, former South African pcaer Dale Steyn was impressed with Sudharan's innings and said the opener knows exactly how and where he wants to score his runs. He certainly did his part. If we're asking other guys that should have stepped up, at least Sai Sudarshan did his part. Also Read: Live Cricket Score It was similar to the way that Sanju Samson got his hundred the other night. I think it's calculated, you know, he knows exactly how and where he wants to score his runs and then he put on a show, said Steyn. Article Source: IANS

PSL 2026 final to be played in front of fans in Lahore

The final will be played at the Gaddafi Stadium in Lahore on May 3

'Im Itching To Get Out There': Pat Cummins Ahead Of Return Vs RR

Skipper Pat Cummins: Skipper Pat Cummins said he is eager to return to action for Sunrisers Hyderabad (SRH) after recovering from a back injury, as the side prepares to face Rajasthan Royals (RR) in their eighth match of the Indian Premier League (IPL) 2026 to be played at Sawai Mansingh Stadium on Saturday. I feel excited. I feel like I've watched too much cricket lately without playing, so I'm itching to get out there. Yeah, stinging to get out there, Cummins said in a video released by SRH on x. Cummins also had special praise for stand-in captain Ishan Kishan, who has led the side in his absence in the opening seven matches. Boys have been on fire. It's been great to watch, so hopefully I can add something. I think for the most part, Ishan was good. I think when it comes to tosses, he was absolutely terrible. But outside of that, he was excellent. You know, he's been brewing, lots of energy, really good tactical moves from, you know, looking from the outside in, he said. He's obviously a great thinker of the game. And alongside, you know, Abhishek out there as well, they've been running it, and it looks pretty smooth. So yeah, when I'm out there, I'm sure I'll be leaning on those guys as well. But yeah, well done, Ishan, he's been awesome, he added. Cummins also spoke about the challenges that pacers face in the IPL and how well the SRH young bowling attack has performed so far. IPL is a very tough place for fast bowlers, but I thought, I think all our guys have been exceptional. You know, a few of the young guys have come in, he said. I think it's, well, I've certainly found it really hard to find the pace of IPL. Those guys look like they've, you know, hit it straight away. They've got the feel of the game. They're sequencing their variations brilliantly so far. So, you know, they already look like the complete players. It's not going to happen perfectly every game, but they've had a great start, he added. IPL is a very tough place for fast bowlers, but I thought, I think all our guys have been exceptional. You know, a few of the young guys have come in, he said. Also Read: Live Cricket Score Australian Test captain cleared the fitness test on Friday and will take the field against the Rajasthan Royals. He will also take over the captaincy duties from stand-in captain Ishan Kishan, under whose leadership Sunrisers Hyderabad won four out of seven matches and are placed at number four in the points table with eight points and a positive net run rate of +0.820. Article Source: IANS

Connor Esterhuizen Has All The Attributes Of A Modern-day Player: Hashim Amla

The SA20 Rising Star: MI Cape Town batting coach Hashim Amla thinks Connor Esterhuizen possesses all the qualities needed to succeed as a modern-day player. Esterhuizens stock has soared dramatically over the past month. The SA20 Rising Star was recently named Player of the Series in New Zealand following an outstanding performance on his first Proteas tour. The Pretoria Capitals' batter shined in Aotearoa, leading to his inclusion among the rising group of young South Africans in the IPL. The Gujarat Titans signed the 24-year-old as a replacement for Englands Tom Banton, who was a former teammate at MI Cape Town. Amla has collaborated extensively with Esterhuizen, spending two seasons together at MI Cape Town before his transfer to the Capitals, and also working domestically with the Lions. When we met at the Lions, he was always one of those youngsters who was extremely eager to learn and to try new things. I think that's so important for anybody who wants to try and play all formats successfully. There's a type of mental elasticity you need to have to be able to go from format to format. That also has to come into your training and your ability to work with different plans. The switch between different plans has to happen quickly. From the time we met, he always had that eagerness to learn and to explore these things, Amla told SA20. The Proteas legend, with 18672 runs in all international formats, believes Esterhuizens capacity to absorb information distinguishes him from others. He's one of those players who, when you watch them early on, you think, 'Oh, he's got something.' His growth has been very quick. That is something very nice to see, because when someone is hungry to learn - like all youngsters - they will receive a lot of information. I suppose one of the skills you have to learn is how to filter the information you receive, Amla said. Once you experiment with it, you have to quickly understand what works within your game and what doesn't. His call-up to the national team was not a surprise because he did really well in four-day cricket, and he had a good T20 competition with the Lions as well. It was no surprise; he's one of those players who has been consistently scoring runs, so he was bound to get a call-up. I think he embodies the modern-day player. He has the attributes of the modern-day player. He's got a good technique, but he can hit a long ball. After spending time at Surrey, a prominent English County Championship team, during the final parts of his playing career, Amla observed England wicketkeeper Jamie Smith's rise at The Oval and believed Esterhuizen could similarly succeed in international cricket. If you think of someone like Jamie Smith, for example, from England, he's also a very young player. When I started at Surrey, he was a youngster coming through, and he had similar attributes, Amla said . He had a good technique, was very strong, and could hit boundaries. That type of player now, you see them in Test cricket, fulfilling that role in the middle order where they can take the game away. Connor is, in a way, similar to that. He has a good enough techniqueor quite a good techniqueto handle a moving ball, but once an opportunity comes for them to score, it's hard to stop them, he added. There has been much debate about the ideal position for Esterhuizen in the batting order. While at MI Cape Town, he was used as a finisher, but with the Capitals, he was moved up the batting lineup. Esterhuizen has stated that he currently has no preferred position, and Amla considers this flexibility to enhance his market value. He's one of those players who we felt could play anywhere from 1 to 6. Even with the Lions, from 1 to 6, he can fit anywhere, Amla said . There has been much debate about the ideal position for Esterhuizen in the batting order. While at MI Cape Town, he was used as a finisher, but with the Capitals, he was moved up the batting lineup. Esterhuizen has stated that he currently has no preferred position, and Amla considers this flexibility to enhance his market value. Also Read: Live Cricket Score He's got the strength for that. To find the best position for him, I would say looking at a No. 4 position might be a buffer between the top order and the middle order, Amla stated. Article Source: IANS

IPL 2026: When And Where To Watch LSG Vs KKR, Know All Details

Bharat Ratna Shri Atal Bihari: Lucknow Super Giants are set to face Kolkata Knight Riders in their eighth match of the Indian Premier League 2026 season on Sunday evening at the Bharat Ratna Shri Atal Bihari Vajpayee Ekana Cricket Stadium. LSG head into the fixture after a setback against Rajasthan Royals, a result that has put them under pressure in the standings. Despite the loss, there were encouraging signs from the bowling unit, which delivered disciplined performances. Mohammed Shami, Prince Yadav and Mohsin Khan stood out with economical spells. Led by Rishabh Pant, the Super Giants have had an inconsistent first half of the campaign and now face a crucial phase. With seven league matches remaining, the team will be aiming to string together victories to keep their playoff hopes alive. Their previous encounter with Kolkata produced a nail-biting finish, with Lucknow edging out a three-wicket win off the final delivery. On that occasion, Mukul Choudhary played a match-winning knock of 54 not out from just 27 balls, smashing seven sixes to guide his side home in dramatic fashion. For Kolkata, concerns remain around their bowling resources. Injuries to key pacers Harshit Rana and Akash Deep have weakened the attack, while experienced campaigners Sunil Narine and Varun Chakravarthy have yet to consistently hit top form. However, Chakravarthy showed signs of resurgence recently with a three-wicket haul against Rajasthan, offering some optimism for the defending champions. When: Sunday, April 26, 7:30 PM IST Where: Bharat Ratna Shri Atal Bihari Vajpayee Ekana Cricket Stadium, Lucknow Where to watch: The LSG vs KKR match will be broadcast on Star Sports channels, with JioHotstar live-streaming the game. Squads: Where to watch: The LSG vs KKR match will be broadcast on Star Sports channels, with JioHotstar live-streaming the game. Also Read: Live Cricket Score Kolkata Knight Riders: Ajinkya Rahane (c), Manish Pandey, Rovman Powell, Angkrish Raghuvanshi (wk), Ramandeep Singh, Rinku Singh, Sunil Narine, Anukul Roy, Vaibhav Arora, Harshit Rana, Umran Malik, Varun Chakaravarthy, Cameron Green, Finn Allen, Matheesha Pathirana, Kartik Tyagi, Rahul Tripathi, Tim Seifert, Tejasvi Dahiya, Sarthak Ranjan, Rachin Ravindra, Akash Deep, Prashant Solanki, Daksh Kamra Article Source: IANS

DC bat against PBKS in Delhi; both teams unchanged

PBKS captain Shreyas Iyer said he was looking to bowl first anyway

IPL 2026: Both Teams Unchanged As DC Elect To Bat First Against PBKS

Both Delhi Capitals: Both Delhi Capitals and Punjab Kings are unchanged as hosts captain Axar Patel won the toss and elected to bat first in match 35 of IPL 2026 at the Arun Jaitley Stadium on Saturday. While table-toppers PBKS are the lone unbeaten team in the tournament, DC have three wins and as many losses to be at sixth spot. It looks a bit dry and obviously its a day game, and its quite hot as well. So were thinking of putting up a good total first and then trying to defend it. Yes, from the looks of it, it seems like it will slow down a bit later, and the bowlers might get some help as well. So we want to post a good total first and give the bowlers a chance to make use of any assistance from the wicket, said Axar after winning the toss. He also talked about DCs intent to not make any silly mistakes in this clash. We want to focus on ourselves. Every team we are playing is playing good cricket. We have also been playing good cricket, but the thing is that in crucial moments, I think we are not winning those moments in the game. We are making silly mistakes, and if we correct those, I think we will be back on track. If consistency comes in, and if we fix the small mistakes we are making in the field or in taking decisions at crucial times, then I think we will be on the winning side most of the time. PBKS skipper Shreyas Iyer, whos playing an IPL game in the national capital for the first time after 2019, said he too would have bowled first if the toss had gone his way. I would love to bowl, but thankfully, I had a small discussion with Axar before the toss. He said that he's going to bat, so I was happy that we are going to bowl and the toss was inconsequential, he said. He also spoke about the need to be in the present and being better in that moment. It's important to stay in the moment, that's how you want the environment to be. I personally feel you just have to keep training harder and keep getting better every now and then, better than the previous performance. That's what I keep telling my teammates as well. We need to inculcate the right habits in the dressing room and culture that we've been building so far. It has been, touch wood, going great. We just have to keep enjoying the game and have fun along with each other. Saturdays game will be played on pitch number six, with square boundary dimensions of 67 and 59 metres respectively, while the straight boundary stands at 73 metres. In his pitch report, Simon Katich said the pitch appears rock hard with little grass cover. He also opined that given the scorching heat, this contest could be a low-scoring one as the pitch is expected to slow down and assist spin as the game progresses. The outfield, however, remains lightning quick. Playing XIs Delhi Capitals: KL Rahul (wk), Pathum Nissanka, Sameer Rizvi, Axar Patel (captain), Nitish Rana, Tristan Stubbs, David Miller, Lungi Ngidi, Kuldeep Yadav, T Natarajan, and Mukesh Kumar Impact Substitutes: Vipraj Nigam, Karun Nair, Dushmantha Chameera, Ashutosh Sharma, and Auqib Nabi Dar Delhi Capitals: KL Rahul (wk), Pathum Nissanka, Sameer Rizvi, Axar Patel (captain), Nitish Rana, Tristan Stubbs, David Miller, Lungi Ngidi, Kuldeep Yadav, T Natarajan, and Mukesh Kumar Also Read: Live Cricket Score Impact Substitutes: Nehal Wadhera, Harpreet Brar, Suryansh Shedge, Yash Thakur, and Vishnu Vinod Article Source: IANS

Sai Sudharsan has his 'limitations' but he 'did his part' against RCB

The other guys around him have to come in and strike at, maybe, 160, 170 and above, Ian Bishop says of the Gujarat Titans batting plan

Nahida Akter, Sarmin Sultana Fined For ICC Code Of Conduct Breach In Second WODI Vs SL

Emirates ICC International Panel: Bangladesh cricketers Nahida Akter and Sarmin Sultana have been fined 10 per cent of their match fees for separate Level 1 breaches of the ICC Code of Conduct during the second ODI of the ICC Womens Championship series against Sri Lanka. The sanctions were imposed following incidents during the match in Rajshahi, where both players were found to have committed offences under different articles of the Code. Nahida breached Article 2.5, which pertains to using language, actions or gestures which disparage or which could provoke an aggressive reaction from a batter upon his/her dismissal during an International Match. Sarmin, meanwhile, was found guilty under Article 2.8, which relates to showing dissent at an Umpires decision during an International Match. In addition to the fines, both players have received one demerit point each on their disciplinary records. It marks their first offence within a 24-month period. The incidents occurred in consecutive phases of the match. Nahida gave a send-off to Sri Lanka captain Chamari Athapaththu after dismissing her in the 17th over, gesturing towards the pavilion. Earlier, in the 16th over of Bangladeshs innings, Sarmin showed visible dissent after being adjudged LBW, pointing towards her bat and delaying her departure from the crease. The charges were levelled by the on-field umpiring team comprising Eloise Sheridan and Rokeya Sultana, along with third umpire Dolly Rani Sarkar and fourth umpire Shathira Jakir Jesy. Both players admitted their respective offences and accepted the sanctions proposed by match referee Supriya Rani Das of the Emirates ICC International Panel; hence, no formal hearings were required. The incidents occurred in consecutive phases of the match. Nahida gave a send-off to Sri Lanka captain Chamari Athapaththu after dismissing her in the 17th over, gesturing towards the pavilion. Earlier, in the 16th over of Bangladeshs innings, Sarmin showed visible dissent after being adjudged LBW, pointing towards her bat and delaying her departure from the crease. Also Read: Live Cricket Score On the field, Sri Lanka bounced back strongly in the contest, clinching the second ODI to level the three-match series 1-1 and set up a decider. The two sides are currently playing the series decider, underway at the Shahid Kamruzzaman Stadium in Rajshahi, Bangladesh. Article Source: IANS

'I've Never Spoken About Him Publicly; He Made An Ad...': Sreesanth Says Harbhajan Made 1 Cr With 'slapgate' Advert

Kings XI Punjab: Eighteen years after the infamous IPL 'slapgate' incident, former India pacer Sreesanth made a scathing attack on ex-spinner Harbhajan Singh, accusing him of making profit from the incident. Sreesanth comments referred to the recent advertisement for a retail seller, where Harbhajan is yelling at a group of people trying to fix electronic equipment by beating them; Sahi se thappad lagao, sab theek ho jata hain (Slap them properly. You can fix everything.) The former pacer stated that he never spoke about Harbhajan or the incident in any public interview but when the advertisement came out, it infuriated him and he instantly blocked Harbhajan on Instagram. I have never spoken about Bhajji in any interview. This is going to be the first time. Until recently there were no problems, but he made an ad about it once again. He made around Rs 80 lakh to Rs 1 crore off it. He then called me and asked me to put a story on it. I told him, I'll forgive but I'll never forget, Sreesanth told Malayalam news outlet 'Mathrubhumi' If someone wrongs you, you should forgive them but never forget. If you forget, they will do the same thing again. He is the biggest example for that. There is no doubt about that. I have no relationship with that person. I used to call him a brother. But in that last 1 or 2 months he did that ad and now I have blocked him on Instagram, he added. My parents have taught me to forgive but never forget. I don't have any complaints against him, nor do I need him. May God bless him and his family. In many interviews, even with Ashwin, he talked about my daughter. People will think oh what a great person he is. He might be a great person. But for me from my time playing for India to now, in my opinion, it's all an act. That act is something Sreesanth doesn't accept, said Sreesanth. Sreesanth was on the receiving end of the infamous Slapgate incident in the inaugural 2008 edition of the tournament. During a match between the Mumbai Indians and Kings XI Punjab, Harbhajan and Sreesanth got into a heated altercation which ended with the spinner slapping his national team compatriot. The incident caught the media's attention and sparked widespread criticism of Harbhajans behaviour, and he later apologised for the physical altercation. The incident led to a disciplinary hearing and Harbhajan was banned for the rest of the season. My parents have taught me to forgive but never forget. I don't have any complaints against him, nor do I need him. May God bless him and his family. In many interviews, even with Ashwin, he talked about my daughter. People will think oh what a great person he is. He might be a great person. But for me from my time playing for India to now, in my opinion, it's all an act. That act is something Sreesanth doesn't accept, said Sreesanth. Also Read: Live Cricket Score Reacting to this, Harbhajan had told IANS, Whatever happened 18 years ago, bringing it up again in public, I really dont understand the motive behind that. I dont know what he was thinking when he released the videomaybe he was under the influence or just messing around. If I were in his place, I wouldnt have let any such video come out like that. Article Source: IANS

Gavaskar Blames Dropped Kohli Catch for GTs Loss as RCB Seal Chase

Former India captain Sunil Gavaskar believes Gujarat Titans paid a heavy price for dropping Virat Kohli, early in the chase, that helped Royal Challengers Bengaluru (RCB) seal a five-wicket win. After being put in to bat, GT posted a competitive 205/3, but a crucial moment unfolded in the very first over of RCBs chase when Kohli was dropped on zero by Washington Sundar off the bowling of Mohammed Siraj. The missed opportunity proved decisive as Kohli went on to anchor the chase with a brilliant 81 off 44 balls, guiding the defending champions towards victory. That dropped catch of Virat Kohli off Sirajs bowling definitely cost Gujarat Titans a lot. We all know he is not just known as a king. He is known as a chase master as well. He loves these kinds of situations where he comes in to bat, knows the target, and can play according to the situation, Gavaskar told JioStar, reacting to the turning point of the game. Speaking about the impact of the early reprieve, he added, You drop him on the first ball, then he will definitely make you pay. That is exactly what he did. After that dropped catch, what a knock he has played. Kohlis innings not only laid the foundation for the chase but also saw him achieve milestones, becoming the first player to reach 800 fours in IPL history and only the third to hit 300 sixes in the tournament. Gavaskar further highlighted Kohlis mastery in run chases, stating, Chasing down huge totals with ease has been Virats trademark batting style throughout his career. GT must be thinking about that dropped catch. At one point in the run chase, when the spinners were bowling, the ball was gripping a bit. It would not have been that easy once the ball got a little older. But this man is one of the greatest in the game. He made it look easy. In addition to Kohlis brilliance, Gavaskar also praised Devdutt Padikkal for his aggressive approach in the middle overs, where he scored a quickfire 55 to keep RCB ahead of the required rate. Devdutt Padikkal played an excellent innings. Virat Kohli rightly pointed out after the match that Padikkal has been hitting some very clean cricketing shots. Earlier, he was seen as an off-side player. His main scoring areas were cover and mid-off. He used to struggle on the on-side. But now he has overcome that limitation. He is hitting sixes and boundaries behind square as well, Gavaskar said. In addition to Kohlis brilliance, Gavaskar also praised Devdutt Padikkal for his aggressive approach in the middle overs, where he scored a quickfire 55 to keep RCB ahead of the required rate. Also Read: Live Cricket Score With contributions from both Kohli and Padikkal proving vital, RCB continued their strong run in the tournament, capitalising on key moments to outplay GT in a high-scoring encounter. Article Source: IANS

'Everything has to come to an end': Samit Patel bows out of English cricket after 24 years

Spinning allrounder reflects on formidable career, as he targets future role as coach ... and maybe selector

Krunal Pandya on India Dream, Pressure Handling After Match-Winning RCB Cameo

Royal Challengers Bengaluru (RCB) all-rounder Krunal Pandya reflected on his ultimate goal, stating that his aim has always been to play for India and stated that theres no better feeling than donning the national jersey. He also spoke about handling pressure situations and the importance of experience after playing a decisive cameo in his teams five-wicket win over the Gujarat Titans in their recently concluded IPL 2026 match at the M. Chinnaswamy Stadium. Chasing a stiff target of 206, RCB rode on a commanding 81 from Virat Kohli and a blistering 55 by Devdutt Padikkal to stay on course. However, a mini-collapse in the latter stages left the side needing composure in the death overs before Krunal stepped up with an unbeaten 23 off 12 balls to seal the chase on Friday. Walking in at a tense juncture, Krunal admitted the pressure was palpable, especially given his limited time in the middle this season. There was pressure. Obviously, this was the 7th or 8th match, and before this game, I had played only two innings with the bat. Sometimes, when theres no continuity, you can suddenly get into a pressure situation, Krunal told JioHotstar. He added that his versatility and experience across batting positions helped him stay composed. But Ive been doing this role for a long time, from No. 3 to No. 8. So, whatever experience I have, I try to use it, and I try to be as calm and present as possible in that situation, he said. Krunals counterattack came at a crucial moment when RCB needed quick runs to regain control of the chase. In the 18th over, he took on left-arm spinner Manav Suthar, smashing boundaries and a six to shift momentum decisively in RCB's favour. Speaking about his aspirations beyond the IPL, Krunal reiterated his desire to return to international cricket. Theres nothing bigger than playing in the blue jersey once again. My goal has always been to play for India. But again, what do I have in my control? Consistent performances and how I win games for my team, thats what I try to focus on, he expressed. Krunal emphasised the role of handling pressure and personal growth in shaping his approach, saying, Ive always enjoyed pressure situations. Ive learned a lot from my life in cricket, because you only have one brain and you use the same brain in life and in sports. So, Ive always focused on how I can get better as a person, and that is the reason Im able to play cricket this way. Krunal also spoke about evolving as a bowler in the fast-changing T20 landscape, where batters are constantly innovating. Every year, batting is evolving at such a pace that you genuinely feel, while standing on your mark, 'Where will you bowl?' Because you feel like the batter can hit you anywhere. Krunal emphasised the role of handling pressure and personal growth in shaping his approach, saying, Ive always enjoyed pressure situations. Ive learned a lot from my life in cricket, because you only have one brain and you use the same brain in life and in sports. So, Ive always focused on how I can get better as a person, and that is the reason Im able to play cricket this way. Also Read: Live Cricket Score Krunal further acknowledged the backing of RCBs spin-bowling coach Malolan Rangarajan in helping him develop his craft. I felt that last year was very good for me, so coming into this season, I was thinking about what else I can add to my bowling. A lot of credit goes to our spin-bowling coach, Malolan, who has left me free. He has backed me a lot and gave me confidence. So, that also makes a difference, he mentioned. Article Source: IANS

Suryakumar, Iyer, Dube Headline T20 Mumbai League 2026 Retention List

Triumph Knights Mumbai North East: The Mumbai Cricket Association (MCA) has unveiled a star-studded list of player retentions featuring India captain Suryakumar Yadav, Shreyas Iyer and Shivam Dube for the T20 Mumbai League 2026. With elite performers such as U-19 World Cup-winning captain Ayush Mhatre, Shardul Thakur, Tushar Deshpande and Sarfaraz Khan retained, and Yashasvi Jaiswal and Ajinkya Rahane allotted as Icon Players, franchises have secured a formidable core, underlining the leagues growing stature and competitive edge. Each of the eight teams retained three players, striking a strategic balance between international experience and emerging domestic talent as the league builds towards a high-octane fourth season. Triumph Knights Mumbai North East have retained Suryakumar (Icon Player), who led India to the T20 World Cup 2026 title, alongside Ayush and Suryansh Shedge, while last seasons runners-up SoBo Mumbai Falcons have secured Shreyas (Icon Player), Angkrish Raghuvanshi and Harsh Aghav. Defending champions Mumbai South Central Maratha Royals have retained Tushar (Icon Player), with Siddhesh Lad and Rohan Raje forming a settled core. Bandra Blasters have been allotted Yashasvi as their Icon Player, with Suved Parkar and Dhrumil Matkar also retained, while ARCS Andheri have retained Shivam (Icon Player) alongside Pragnesh Kanpillewar and Deepak Shetty. Aakash Tigers Mumbai Western Suburbs have secured Sarfaraz (Icon Player), supported by Shams Mulani and Jay Bista. North Mumbai Panthers have been allotted Icon Player Ajinkya, joined by retained players Abhigyan Kundu and Tanush Kotian, while Eagle Thane Strikers have placed their faith in Shardul (Icon Player) alongside Atharva Ankolekar and Sairaj Patil. Several of the retained players are proven performers in the Indian Premier League and on the international stage, adding significant depth and star appeal to the competition. MCA President Ajinkya Naik said, This is a strong statement of intent from all franchises. The retention of some of the biggest names in Indian cricket reflects the strength and credibility the T20 Mumbai League has built over the years. At the same time, the opportunity for young and emerging players to share the dressing room with such established stars is invaluable for their growth and development. With such a high-quality core in place, we are set for a season that will raise the bar in terms of competitiveness and overall standard of cricket. Rajdip Gupta, Chairman of the League Governing Council, added, These retentions underline the strategic clarity of franchises and the depth of talent available in Mumbai. The mix of established stars and emerging players will make this one of the most exciting seasons yet. The retention strategy clearly reflects the intent of teams to build continuity while maintaining a high-performance environment. Since its inception in 2018, the T20 Mumbai League has emerged as a key platform for talent identification and progression, with several players going on to represent Mumbai, feature in the Indian Premier League and earn national honours. With the retention phase complete, focus now shifts to the upcoming player auction, as franchises look to build on their strong core and assemble squads capable of competing for the title in what promises to be a blockbuster 2026 season. The dates and details for the auction will be announced soon. List of Retained Players: Aakash Tigers Mumbai Western Suburbs: Sarfaraz Khan (Icon Player), Shams Mulani and Jay Bista ARCS Andheri: Shivam Dube (Icon Player), Pragnesh Kanpillewar and Deepak Shetty Bandra Blasters: Yashasvi Jaiswal (Icon Player), Suved Parkar and Dhrumil Matkar Mumbai South Central Maratha Royals: Tushar Deshpande (Icon Player), Siddhesh Lad and Rohan Raje North Mumbai Panthers: Ajinkya Rahane (Icon Player), Abhigyan Kundu and Tanush Kotian SoBo Mumbai Falcons: Shreyas Iyer (Icon Player), Angkrish Raghuvanshi and Harsh Aghav North Mumbai Panthers: Ajinkya Rahane (Icon Player), Abhigyan Kundu and Tanush Kotian Also Read: Live Cricket Score Triumph Knights Mumbai North East: Suryakumar Yadav (Icon Player), Ayush Mhatre and Suryansh Shedge Article Source: IANS

Steyn in awe of Kohli's ability to find 'a road to get to the final runs'

When you see someone really so driven and so passionate about the game, it really rubs off to everybody in the side, Devdutt Padikkal says about Virat Kohli

Former New Zealand Cricketer Bracewell Given 2 Year Ban For Cocaine Use

Former New Zealand and Essex all-rounder Doug Bracewell has been given a two-year suspension after testing positive for cocaine during an English County Championship match last year. Bracewell's positive test came on September 25, 2025 while he was playing for Essex against Somerset at Chelmsford. The 35-year-old admitted using cocaine after the first day of the fixture and in the early hours of the morning prior to the second day's play. After being notified of the positive test, Bracewell retired from cricket on December 28. Despite his retirement, Bracewell, who had signed for Essex for the final three Championship matches of last season, was still issued with the two-year ban by the Cricket Regulator. He previously served a one-month ban in 2024 after testing positive for cocaine during New Zealand's 'Super Smash' Twenty20 event. The two-year suspension is backdated to November 24, 2025, the date of his provisional ban, and will run until November 23, 2027. Bracewell, who played in 69 matches for New Zealand across all formats, has accepted the ban and Essex will not face punishment. Essex can confirm that Doug Bracewell failed a routine drugs test in September 2025, the club said in a statement on Friday. The club supports the Cricket Regulator's decision to impose a period of ineligibility of two years. All employees are required to meet the highest standards of professional conduct. Also Read: Live Cricket Score While the club does not condone Bracewell's behaviour, we are committed to supporting him through rehabilitation in line with our policies and procedures.

United book playoffs berth after routing Kingsmen for 80

Kingsmen will now compete for the fourth playoffs spot with Lahore Qalandars and Karachi Kings

Kohli returns to the top of the IPL 2026 Orange Cap table

Shubman Gill, Rajat Patidar and B Sai Sudharsan also rose on the highest run-getters' table at IPL 2026 after the RCB vs GT game on Friday night

Carlos Alcaraz withdraws from 2026 French Open as wrist injury dashes three-peat dreams

Alcaraz's absence boosts Jannik Sinner's chances for a Career Slam

DC vs PBKS Match 35, IPL 2026: Preview, Predicted XIs, Player Tips & Match Prediction

DC vs PBKS Match 35 , Cricket Tips : Punjab Kings have been unstoppable in the IPL 2026 so far. They are the only team without a defeat in the IPL 2026 and are a few wins away from making it to the playoffs. PBKS will now take on Delhi Capitals in an away game. This encounter has a scheduled start of 3:30 PM IST at Arun Jaitley Stadium on Saturday afternoon. PBKS will look to stay at the top of the table. DC faced a defeat against SRH in the last game. They made several errors, and it cost them the game. So, they will be keen to address the issues and come hard. DC vs PBKS: Match Details Date : April 25, 2026 (Saturday) Time : 3:30 PM IST Venue : Arun Jaitley Stadium, Delhi DC vs PBKS Live Streaming Details Indian fans can tune into Star Sports Network to watch the live action of the game. Fans can also enjoy the live stream on the Jio Hotstar app or website. DC vs PBKS Head-to-Head in IPL Total Matches : 35 DC : 17 PBKS : 17 No - Result : 01 DC vs PBKS: Ground Pitch Report The wicket in Delhi is very flat and helpful for the batters. There is nothing for the bowlers in this wicket. This is a high-scoring venue, and the par score here in the IPL is around 190-200. Batting second will be a good option, because of the weather and pitch conditions. DC vs PBKS Possible XIs DC : KL Rahul (wk), Pathum Nissanka, Nitish Rana, Axar Patel (c), Sameer Rizvi, Tristan Stubbs, David Miller, Kuldeep Yadav, Lungi Ngidi, T Natarajan, Mukesh Kumar PBKS : Shreyas Iyer (c), Prabhsimran Singh (wk), Priyansh Arya, Cooper Connolly, Shashank Singh, Marcus Stoinis, Marco Jansen, Xavier Bartlett ,Yuzvendra Chahal, Arshdeep Singh, Vijaykumar Vyshak DC vs PBKS Player to Watch Out For Probable Best Batter Priyansh Arya and KL Rahul will be the two batters to watch out for from both teams. Probable Best Bowler Lungi Ngidi has bowled well and will be the key bowler for DC. For PBKS, Arshdeep Singh's role with the new ball will be important. Today Match Prediction : DC have not been consistent this season. Hence, we predict PBKS, who are in good form, to win this game. DC vs PBKS Match 35, IPL 2026, Today 2026 Match, DC vs PBKS 2026 Prediction, DC vs PBKS Predicted XIs, Injury Update for DC vs PBKS 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.

Kohli, Padikkal hit fifties as RCB ace the chase against GT

Sai Sudharsan's century in vain for GT as they slump to their fourth defeat

Hammond hundred lifts Gloucestershire as Bashir shines again

Derbyshire allrounder Anuj Dal taken to hospital after suffering ankle injury during morning session

IPL 2026: I've Been Working Hard To Get Where I Am, Says Devdutt Padikkal After Fiery Fifty Vs GT

Indian Premier League: Devdutt Padikkals comeback continued to gain steam as his impressive 55 off 27 balls set the stage for Royal Challengers Bengalurus five-wicket victory over Gujarat Titans in the Indian Premier League 2026 at M Chinnaswamy Stadium in Bengaluru on Friday. Reflecting on his return to form, Padikkal emphasised the effort behind the scenes. Feels great. I've been working hard to get where I am, and I'm glad its paying off. I think a lot of this is thanks to the self-belief that the management has given me. At the same time, Ive made some technical changes in the past few years. You have to stick to those changes. Now I am seeing the results. Chasing a tough target of 205, RCB needed a strong start, and Padikkal delivered just that. He took on the pace of Kagiso Rabada and Mohammed Siraj confidently, hitting boundaries and maintaining the required run rate. One shot stood outa beautiful lofted drive over extra coverwhich he highlighted: It was probably my favourite shot of the day for sure. Padikkal approached the innings with a clear strategy rather than recklessness. At the end of the day, I need to play according to the situation and assess whats happening out there. We were chasing 210, so we needed to make the most of the Power-play and keep the momentum going for the next few overs, he explained. This clarity showed as he dominated the middle overs, taking apart Prasidh Krishna and applying pressure on Rashid Khan with a mix of sweeps and lofted shots. Chasing a tough target of 205, RCB needed a strong start, and Padikkal delivered just that. He took on the pace of Kagiso Rabada and Mohammed Siraj confidently, hitting boundaries and maintaining the required run rate. One shot stood outa beautiful lofted drive over extra coverwhich he highlighted: It was probably my favourite shot of the day for sure. Also Read: Live Cricket Score Looking ahead, Padikkal expressed his desire to contribute more significantly. I want to help finish games, so hopefully I can do that soon, he said, while also recognising the depth of talent that gives him freedom to perform at the top. We've seen what Tim, Romario, and Jitesh can do down the order, so with that kind of firepower, you can feel free to go out and express yourself. Article Source: IANS

IPL 2026: We Needed To Take Wickets, Says GT Skipper Gill After Five-wicket Defeat Vs RCB

Royal Challengers Bengaluru: Shubman Gill did not shy away from pinpointing where the game slipped for the Gujarat Titans after their five-wicket defeat against the Royal Challengers Bengaluru in the 34th match of the Indian Premier League (2026) at the M Chinnaswamy Stadium in Bengaluru on Friday. Definitely. From the 16th to the 19th, those three overs, we couldn't get any boundaries. Those overs were crucial for us. At the end of the Power-play, we were in a good situation. We needed to take wickets, he said. I mean, when a batsman gets dropped on nought, it's always tough on the fielder. But it's about how you come back in the game. We had our moments. But we weren't able to hit the right lengths consistently, which was important. But they batted very well in the middle overs. The dropped chance he referred to allowed Virat Kohli to flourish, and the veteran made GT pay with a commanding 81 off 44 balls. Alongside him, Devdutt Padikkal produced a stunning 55 off 27, dismantling the attack through the middle overs. Their partnership ensured RCB stayed ahead of the asking rate, even as GTs bowlers searched for control. Gill admitted there was some assistance in the pitch, particularly from Krunal Pandyas bowling: When we were batting, the balls that Krunal bowled, it was gripping a bit. I thought if we could get a few wickets, we would come back in the game. Earlier, the Gujarat Titans had posted a formidable 205/3, powered by a superb century from Sai Sudharsan, who struck 100 off 58 balls and became the fastest to 2000 IPL runs. Contributions from Gill and Jos Buttler added heft, but the total ultimately proved insufficient. Alongside him, Devdutt Padikkal produced a stunning 55 off 27, dismantling the attack through the middle overs. Their partnership ensured RCB stayed ahead of the asking rate, even as GTs bowlers searched for control. Gill admitted there was some assistance in the pitch, particularly from Krunal Pandyas bowling: When we were batting, the balls that Krunal bowled, it was gripping a bit. I thought if we could get a few wickets, we would come back in the game. Also Read: Live Cricket Score Gill also hinted at expectations from his top order moving forward: He was quite upset with the way he got out in the previous game. But in the upcoming games, hopefully, he gives me some more strike in the Power-play. It was a telling note from a captain whose side had their chancesbut were ultimately outplayed in the moments that mattered most. Article Source: IANS

IPL 2026: Kohli, Padikkal Guide RCB To Five-wicket Victory Over GT

Impact Player Jacob Bethell: Veteran Virat Kohli (81) and Devdutt Padikkal (55) led a strong charge as Royal Challengers Bengaluru (RCB) surged to a five-wicket victory over the Gujarat Titans (GT) in Match 34 of the Indian Premier League (IPL) 2026 at the M Chinnaswamy Stadium in Bengaluru on Friday. RCBs reply got a lucky break early on when Kohli, trying his signature flick off Mohammed Siraj, hit it too high and was dropped by Washington Sundar at short midwicket. This mistake proved costly. Kohli quickly found his rhythm, while Impact Player Jacob Bethell had a brief moment of luck before he edged one to backward point and fell to Kagiso Rabada. Padikkal wasted no time making an impact. He took on Rabadas pace, which was clocked at 153.6 kph, hitting a six over deep square leg. He then punished Siraj for his mistakes with boundaries and a lofted six over extra cover. Kohli joined in soon after, stepping down the track against Rabada and scoring his 800th IPL four, becoming the first batter to hit this milestone. The momentum swung as Padikkal dominated the middle overs, taking apart Prasidh Krishna with a series of boundaries and sixes, including a flick, a pull, and a loft over long-off. He then targeted Rashid Khan, launching him for six over long-off and sweeping for another six, bringing up a blazing half-century off just 30 balls. At one point, he raced to 50 in only 20 deliveries. Meanwhile, Kohli made the most of his early chance. He reached a significant milestone by pulling Rashid for his 300th IPL six, joining an elite group behind only Rohit Sharma and Chris Gayle. Not willing to take a back seat, Kohli attacked Rabada, hitting a flick for four and a towering six over deep midwicket, which kept the required rate manageable. Padikkal's innings ended on 55 off 27 balls when Rashid fooled him with a googly that clipped the bails. However, Kohli continued, taking on Jason Holder with two consecutive sixesone a powerful flick over deep midwicket and the other lofted over mid-off. The veteran eventually fell for 81 off 44 balls, chopping a slower ball from Holder onto his stumps. By then, RCB had taken control of the chase, scoring quickly and staying well ahead in their pursuit. Earlier, the Gujarat Titans set a competitive total of 205/3, highlighted by a brilliant century by Sai Sudharsan. The left-hander overcame a tough start against Bhuvneshwar Kumar and Josh Hazlewood, who both extracted movement and bounce, before seizing control as the conditions improved. Sudharsan raced to 41 off 27 balls, helping GT to 57/0 in the powerplay. He reached his half-century in 33 balls and continued to dominate the middle overs with a mix of creative strokes and calculated aggression. A standout moment occurred when he uppercut Krunal Pandya for six and followed it with a slog sweep to reach his 2000th IPL run, becoming the fastest to this milestone in 47 innings, ahead of Gayle, Shaun Marsh, Ruturaj Gaikwad, and KL Rahul. Sudharsan eventually fell for an excellent 100 off 58 balls to Hazlewood, ending hopes for a late surge. Contributions from Shubman Gill and Jos Buttler, along with a late push from Holder and Washington Sundar, ensured GT crossed the 200-mark. However, RCBs aggressive response, led by Kohli and Padikkal, kept them ahead in what became a high-scoring contest. Rajat Patidar and Jitesh Sharma tried to end things quickly by hitting sixes off Rashid Khan, but the leg-spinner fought back by having Jitesh caught in the covers. From the other end, left-arm spinner Manav Suthar tricked Patidar in the air, getting him to hit a miscue to extra cover and leaving RCB five down. Krunal Pandya took charge just when the chase looked like it might fall apart. In the 18th over, he hit back-to-back boundaries and then a huge six over deep midwicket to start a decisive counterattack against Suthar. Krunal's unbeaten 23 off 12 balls, which included 17 runs in the over, helped RCB win the game by five wickets. Rajat Patidar and Jitesh Sharma tried to end things quickly by hitting sixes off Rashid Khan, but the leg-spinner fought back by having Jitesh caught in the covers. Also Read: Live Cricket Score Gujarat Titans 205/3 in 20 overs (Sai Sudharsan 100, Shubman Gill 32; Bhuvneshwar Kumar 1-31, Suyash Sharma 1-36) lost to Royal Challengers Bengaluru 206/5 in 18.5 overs (Virat Kohli 81, Devdutt Padikkal 55; Rashid Khan 2-49, Jason Holder 1-28) by five wickets. Article Source: IANS

IPL 2026: It Was Always Coming, Says Sudharsan After Scoring A Century Against RCB

Royal Challengers Bengaluru: Sai Sudharsan played a calm yet strong innings, leading Gujarat Titans to a solid score of 205/3 against Royal Challengers Bengaluru in the Indian Premier League (IPL) 2026 match at M. Chinnaswamy Stadium in Bengaluru. After scoring 100 off 58 balls, he said his innings was as much about finishing well as about finding form. It was always coming. I was touching the ball well in the last few innings and was really grateful to God. Really happy to contribute to the team. I think with the level of communication we understood it was two-paced and sticky, and it was a natural instinct to take the game deeper. The left-handed batter had a challenging start as Bhuvneshwar Kumar and Josh Hazlewood found early movement, beating his outside edge and concerning him with bounce. A fortunate edge for four helped him settle in, but once the conditions improved, Sudharsan picked up the pace. He started finding boundaries with accuracy and hit the first six of the innings in the fifth over. He dominated the powerplay, reaching 41 off 27 balls as GT scored 57/0, before smoothly moving into the middle overs. Combining smart aggression with effective strike rotation, he reached his half-century in 33 balls. Then, he stepped it up further, taking on Romario Shepherd and Krunal Pandya with inventive shots, including a daring uppercut for six. The left-handed batter had a challenging start as Bhuvneshwar Kumar and Josh Hazlewood found early movement, beating his outside edge and concerning him with bounce. A fortunate edge for four helped him settle in, but once the conditions improved, Sudharsan picked up the pace. He started finding boundaries with accuracy and hit the first six of the innings in the fifth over. Also Read: Live Cricket Score Even with this achievement, Sudharsan kept his focus on the bigger goal. I have such high standards for myself, I want to always put my team in a good position. I've been starting well but not finishing well, so it was more than just a century for me. I didn't try to take too much control of the innings and let go. I let it go really well today. I personally feel it is a really good score for the bowlers. Not so easy to play shots as it's not so true. Article Source: IANS

DC have lots of catching up to do to give PBKS a fight

Rehan Ahmed has joined Delhi Capitals whereas Cooper Connolly is available for Punjab Kings after a quick trip to Australia

Cummins set to return and take back SRH captaincy

Parag's form under the scanner as RR host SRH in Jaipur

IPL 2026: Sudharsans Ton Lifts GT To 205/3 Against RCB

Royal Challengers Bengaluru: Sai Sudharsan anchored Gujarat Titans' (GT) innings with an impressive 100 off 58 balls and helped visitors put up a competitive total of 205/3 against Royal Challengers Bengaluru (RCB) in the 34th match of the Indian Premier League (IPL) 2026 at the M Chinnaswamy Stadium in Bengaluru on Friday. Sudharsan started a bit shaky when Bhuvneshwar Kumar got the ball to move away, creating a thick outside edge that went past the short third for four. On the other end, Josh Hazlewood made things tough early on. He hit Sudharsan on the pads and repeatedly beat his outside edge, with Sudharsan often late on his shots. However, as the initial movement faded, Sudharsan began to settle, steering one deliberately past the short third and punching another through the covers to find his rhythm. The breakthrough came in the fifth over when Sudharsan hit the first six of the innings. After scooping Hazlewood past the keeper for four, he cut the seamer over cover-point for a maximum and followed it up by slicing another boundary behind point, racing to 41 off 27 balls while Shubman Gill had faced just three deliveries. The Gujarat Titans finished the Power-play strongly at 57/0, with Sudharsan in control. He kept attacking, facing Rasikh Salam with successive boundariesa pull and a cutwhile ensuring the scoring rate stayed above 10 runs per over. Gill contributed with a boundary in the final over of the Power-play, but the focus remained firmly on Sudharsan. Even when Krunal Pandya tried to tighten things briefly with variations in pace and angle, Sudharsan smartly rotated the strike to prevent any slowdown. The left-hander brought up his half-century in style, reaching 50 off just 33 balls with a scoop for six off Romario Shepherd, followed by a sharp boundary through covers. The over became the most expensive of the innings as Gill joined in with a classic pull. Sudharsan then delivered one of the highlights of the innings by uppercutting Krunal for a six over deep thirdan audacious shotbefore slog-sweeping another maximum to mark his 2000th IPL run. He became the fastest to reach this milestone in 47 innings, surpassing Chris Gayle (48), with Shaun Marsh (52), Ruturaj Gaikwad (57), and KL Rahul (60) following behind. Sudharsan kept the momentum going into the middle overs, hitting Suyash Sharma for a six over wide long-off and smashing a straight drive that struck the bowler, briefly stopping play. Suyash returned to dismiss Gill with a googly, caught at long-on. Jos Buttler, in his 500th T20 match, added some energy with 17 off nine balls, including a four and a six. Hazlewood eventually ended Sudharsans excellent innings by forcing a mistimed pull that resulted in a return catch. With Sudharsan out for 100 off 58, Gujarat lost the chance for a late surge, but Washington Sundar provided some quick runs with a six and a four. Suyash Sharma delivered a tidy four-run 17th over before walking off for medical attention following the earlier blow to his hand, and Bhuvneshwar Kumar followed it up with an equally economical five-run over while dismissing Jos Buttler, who reverse-scooped a low full toss to short third. Drama unfolded ahead of the final over as Rasikh Salam pulled up near the umpire with cramps and had to walk off despite brief treatment, forcing Rajat Patidar to hand the ball to Krunal Pandya to complete the innings. Holder hammered two maximums and a boundary in the last over to help GT reach 205/3. For RCB, Bhuvneshwar Kumar, Josh Hazlewood, and Suyash Sharma picked up a wicket each. Holder hammered two maximums and a boundary in the last over to help GT reach 205/3. Also Read: Live Cricket Score Gujarat Titans 205/3 in 20 overs (Sai Sudharsan 100, Shubman Gill 32; Bhuvneshwar Kumar 1-31, Suyash Sharma 1-36) against Royal Challengers Bengaluru. Article Source: IANS

Hockey Olympian Gurbax Singh Grewal Passes In Chandigarh, Aged 84

Hockey Olympian Gurbax Singh Grewal: Former India international and Mumbai Hockey Association (MHA) secretary Gurbax Singh Grewal, who was a member of the national team that won a bronze medal in the 1968 Olympic Games in Mexico City, died of a heart attack in Chandigarh on Saturday evening. He was 84. Gurbax Singh, brother of Olympian Balbir Singh, retired as Sports Officer with the Western Railways in Mumbai and was elected as Honorary Secretary of The Mumbai Hockey Association Ltd as part of a team that included former India captain and coach Joaquim Carvalho. Born on April 1, 1942, in Lyallpur, Punjab Province of British India, near present-day Faisalabad in Pakistan, Gurbax came to Mumbai in his 20s to play hockey for the Western Railways in Mumbai. He, along with his brother Balbir Singh, was part of the Indian team that won a bronze medal in the 1968 Olympic Games in Mexico. Gurbax Singh, brother of Olympian Balbir Singh, retired as Sports Officer with the Western Railways in Mumbai and was elected as Honorary Secretary of The Mumbai Hockey Association Ltd as part of a team that included former India captain and coach Joaquim Carvalho. Also Read: Live Cricket Score After retiring from Western Railways as Sports Officer, Gurbax contested elections for the Mumbai Hockey Association and was elected Honorary Secretary in 2010. The renovation of the MHA's Mahindra Stadium happened during his tenure after the MHA and MCA reached an agreement on the transfer of land to the cricket association to install the floodlights for the Wankhede Stadium ahead of the 2010 World Cup. Article Source: IANS

BCL round-up: Pritom, Amite, Akbar tons give North and East Zones winning start

Pritom, Amite and Akbar hit centuries this week, while Sofor and Robiul grabbed five-wicket hauls

IPL 2026: Happy To Bat At No.3 If The Team Asks Me To Do It, Says DCs Tristan Stubbs

Indian Premier League: Delhi Capitals (DC) middle-order batter Tristan Stubbs said he has no reservations about batting at No.3 if the team demands it, adding that his past experiences of holding the fort in tough situations will come of huge help if slotted in the top order for their upcoming Indian Premier League (IPL) 2026 clash against Punjab Kings. DC, with three wins from six games, will be looking to arrest their inconsistency in the competition when they host table-toppers PBKS, who remain the only unbeaten team in IPL 2026, at the Arun Jaitley Stadium in New Delhi on Saturday afternoon. Stubbs has drawn attention for his calmness while playing a big part in bailing DC out of tough situations against Lucknow Super Giants (LSG) and Royal Challengers Bengaluru (RCB), with scores of 39 not out and 60 not out, respectively. In all, Stubbs has aggregated 196 runs from six innings at an average of 65.3 and a strike rate of 137. I think being in the middle order in general, you come in different situations all the time. So you are sort of mentally prepared for that, but you also have past experiences you have had in those types of situations. So, I don't really mind where I come in. Then, going up the order, if the team asks me to do it, I will be more than happy to do it. So, yeah, that's about it, Stubbs told reporters on the eve of the match. He credited his adaptability to shift gears as per the situation to a career spent batting across multiple positions, and the experience gained through playing Test cricket for South Africa. Like I said, I have batted through my whole career pretty much. I have batted three in one game and six in the next game. So, it changes all the time, and that sort of allowed me, with Test cricket, to be able to try and change gears and do what I think is right out there. Those two games, fortunately, the rate never got away from us. So, there was always one partnership in both those games, and that's about it. I firmly believe in batting in partnerships, and that's what I try to do my best, he said. But Stubbs' overall scoring rate this season has remained on the conservative side. In IPL 2026, he has been too slow and failed to accelerate in the manner he managed to do in the last two editions. The breakdown of his strike rates across phases, as per stats from Cricket-21, highlights the dip in Stubbs' tempo. Since 2024, his strike rate in the first 10 balls has hovered around 127, but in 2026, it has dropped to 118. The middle phase (balls 1120) has seen a sharper decline from 282 in 2024 and 189 in 2025 to just 144 this season. For balls above 21, Stubbs' finishing burst has also lost some sting, sliding from 233 in 2024 and 155 in 2025 to 149 in 2026. One can hope that Stubbs' potential promotion to No.3 can arrest this slide and bring about a turnaround in his strike rates across phases. On what to expect from the pitch for the high-stakes mid-season clash, Stubbs said, I think from the World Cup to still here now, we haven't really seen here like an absolute belter. So, it will probably be pretty similar. Hopefully, it's really low, ragging, and 120 plays 120 - that'll be great, he said with a smile. DC have faced questions about their batting consistency this season, including their inability to chase down anything 200 and beyond. But Stubbs pushed back against the notion, adding that once the small moments align together, they can show their best batting performance in the competition. One can hope that Stubbs' potential promotion to No.3 can arrest this slide and bring about a turnaround in his strike rates across phases. On what to expect from the pitch for the high-stakes mid-season clash, Stubbs said, I think from the World Cup to still here now, we haven't really seen here like an absolute belter. So, it will probably be pretty similar. Hopefully, it's really low, ragging, and 120 plays 120 - that'll be great, he said with a smile. Also Read: Live Cricket Score On a bad day, we have won three out of six. But also, when we've lost it, we've still scored 190. We know a couple of small moments here and there in the games that we're scoring these big scores. We're not too worried. Everyone's really positive and everyone's batting well, so that's quite exciting, he signed off. Article Source: IANS

IPL 2026: 'I Visualise These Situations,' Says Jadeja On His Fighting Knock Vs LSG

Lucknow Super Giants: Rajasthan Royals all-rounder Ravindra Jadeja credited his mental preparation and ability to visualise pressure scenarios for his match-winning performance in RRs 40-run victory over Lucknow Super Giants (LSG) in the Indian Premier League (IPL) 2026 clash at the Ekana Stadium in Lucknow on Wednesday. I had a magic wand in my pocket. As soon as I put my hand in it, I felt something. Why did you move ahead in such a team? I have played in such a situation for so many years. My batting has never been in such a situation in my entire career. I have played in such a situation very rarely. I have got used to this thing, Jadeja said in a video released by Rajasthan Royals on Friday. In a low-scoring encounter, Jadejas unbeaten 43 off 29 balls lifted Rajasthan Royals to 159/6, with a crucial late flourish alongside Shubham Dubey. His late assault, including a 20-run final over, proved decisive on a tricky surface. Reflecting on his mindset, Jadeja emphasised the importance of mental rehearsal. This thing keeps running in my mind. This situation can also come in a T20 game. If the wicket fell 3-4, then I would have to go and handle the batting. I visualise this and see myself in the same situation. I get a lot of help in this. I keep thinking about that situation. I get a lot of benefit from it, he said. Defending 159, which is the lowest total successfully defended this season, RR's bowlers produced a clinical effort to bundle out LSG for just 119 in 18 overs. Jofra Archer starred with 3-20, while Nandre Burger and Brijesh Sharma picked up two wickets each as LSG slumped to their fourth straight loss despite Mitchell Marshs fighting 55. Jadeja noted that the pitch conditions played a significant role in shaping his approach with both bat and ball. Wicket was not that easy. Personally, I felt that it was not a typical T20 wicket. There were some fast bowlers on the wicket. There was a seam. There was a swing, too. It was not that easy to hit a shot in the T20 format in today's wicket. Jadeja, who also took one crucial wicket, explained his bowling strategy, where he mixed his pace effectively to trouble the LSG batters. When I came to bowl, I felt that I could use the pace of the ball. My plan succeeded. When I was batting, I felt that the ball was not coming well on the bat. It was getting stuck. There was a little grip, he said. Jadeja, who also took one crucial wicket, explained his bowling strategy, where he mixed his pace effectively to trouble the LSG batters. Also Read: Live Cricket Score Meanwhile, with this win, the Rajasthan Royals are placed at number 2 in the points table with five wins in seven matches. They will next face Sunrisers Hyderabad (SRH) at their home ground, Sawai Mansingh Stadium, on Saturday. Article Source: IANS

Bethell in for Salt as RCB bowl; GT bring in Holder

Holder came in for Phillips, and Suthar for Ashok Sharma for GT

IPL 2026: Bethell Replaces Injured Phil Salt As RCB Elect To Bowl Against GT

Royal Challengers Bengaluru: Defending champions Royal Challengers Bengaluru (RCB) won the toss and elected to bowl against Gujarat Titans (GT) in Match 34 of the Indian Premier League (IPL) 2026 at the M Chinnaswamy Stadium in Bengaluru, on Friday. RCB opener Phil Salt has picked up an injury, as his countryman Jacob Bethell replaced him in the playing eleven. For GT, Jason Holder, Rahul Tewatia, and Manav Suthar come in for Prasidh Krishna, Glenn Philips, and Ashok Sharma. RCB captain Rajat Patidar said, It's pretty obvious we want to bowl first. As we all know, chasing gives a sort of clarity about the wicket and the score. There's one change. Salty got injured, and Bethell comes in. On doing well at home, he said, A great point that I like, we are assessing the wicket and the situation pretty well. Of course, there's a lot of planning behind it. Whenever you come here to Chinnaswamy, it's a good wicket to bat on. There's no grass on it. It might be a bit tacky in the first innings. GT captain Shubman Gill said, Not really. Generally, on this ground, teams have had success chasing. But it looks like a good wicket. Honestly, it's about assessing the conditions quickly. If you can get a good Power-play, you can build on that. Just keep mounting on the good start. On losing their previous game, Gill said, Games like that in tournaments like this can happen. But it's about reminding us what has worked for us as a team and backing ourselves. We have a couple of changes. Jason Holder comes, and he is making his debut tonight. Manav also comes in. Playing XIs: Gujarat Titans: Shubman Gill (c), B Sai Sudharsan, Jos Buttler (wk), Washington Sundar, Jason Holder, Rahul Tewatia, Shahrukh Khan, Rashid Khan, Manav Suthar, Kagiso Rabada, Mohammed Siraj. Impact substitutes: Prasidh Krishna, Anuj Rawat, Glenn Phillips, Nishant Sindhu, Arshad Khan Gujarat Titans: Shubman Gill (c), B Sai Sudharsan, Jos Buttler (wk), Washington Sundar, Jason Holder, Rahul Tewatia, Shahrukh Khan, Rashid Khan, Manav Suthar, Kagiso Rabada, Mohammed Siraj. Also Read: Live Cricket Score Impact substitutes: Jacob Bethell, Jordan Cox, Mangesh Yadav, Vicky Ostwal, Venkatesh Iyer Article Source: IANS

'We're walking away stronger for it' - Walter on NZ's depth despite series loss

After claiming a 1-0 lead, NZ ended up losing the three-match series in challenging conditions in Bangladesh

IPL 2026: Connolly Is Available And Ready To Feature For PBKS Against Delhi Capitals, Says Bahutule

Indian Premier League: Australias batting all-rounder Cooper Connolly is available and ready to feature for Punjab Kings in their Indian Premier League (IPL) 2025 clash against Delhi Capitals on Saturday afternoon, confirmed spin bowling coach Sairaj Bahutule. As previously reported by IANS, Connolly had briefly returned to his hometown, Perth, to undergo scans on his back after injury prevented him from bowling left-arm spin in IPL 2026. Connolly has since rejoined the squad and is available to play, though its yet to be known if he will still play as a specialist batter for PBKS, the lone unbeaten side in the competition. Yes, he is very much available. So, he had to go back and report to his state team. He just went there, and he has come back. So, he is very much ready and raring to go because I think he is somebody who's in his first year in IPL and first year in Indian conditions. He has responded really well, and he is a great kid. He has done well in the under-19 levels and played in the Big Bash League. He is definitely a player who is looking forward to every game and is very keen to perform for the side, Bahutule told reporters on the eve of the match. Bahutule also lavished praise on explosive left-handed opener Priyansh Arya, who has lit up IPL 2026 yet again with his audacious hitting. He had a fabulous season last year as well. I think he is somebody who must have gone during the off-season playing domestic cricket for Delhi and understood a few things where he needs to improve, and that's what he has got better at. He has come back and understood that this is what I need to improve for the second season. Yes, challenges are there in the second season. But it doesn't look like he has left off from the way he was playing last year. He is a very calm and composed cricketer and has very good shoulders. He doesn't get fazed by success or failure. He is very well-balanced, and I think in the coming future, he will be a great prospect to be playing for the country, he added. On the spin-bowling front, leg-spinner Yuzvendra Chahal has so far shouldered the slow bowling workload as the sole specialist spinner in PBKS's playing eleven. However, Bahutule indicated that Harpreet Brar, who has done well for PBKS whenever given a chance, remains firmly in their plans. I am sure he has also been considered. But again, we will have to look at the pitch again today, how it is tomorrow, and at some stage, and then take a call on things. Yes, Yuzi has actually taken all the pressure as the lone spinner because he is also aware that, being that lone spinner, the opposition will always look to target him. But with his experience and with his guile, he can execute his skills brilliantly. Harpreet is a fabulous bowler. He has been bowling exceedingly well from the domestic season to getting into the IPL. He is in a very good frame of mind. He is very keen and eager to play, too. But sometimes, the combination and you have to take certain decisions which are favourable for that particular pitch and that particular opposition. Yes, definitely, he is in the scheme of things, and we will take a call tomorrow, and hopefully, he can get a game, he added. With the match scheduled to be played in the afternoon, temperatures are expected to be very high, leading to cramps affecting players being a strong possibility. Asked about how the team, particularly the overseas contingent, was preparing to cope with the scorching Delhi heat, Bahutule said, Again, IPL has been there for so many years. Overseas players are also aware of it. I think they start the preparation at least a day before, in terms of hydration. But sometimes, the combination and you have to take certain decisions which are favourable for that particular pitch and that particular opposition. Yes, definitely, he is in the scheme of things, and we will take a call tomorrow, and hopefully, he can get a game, he added. Also Read: Live Cricket Score That is the reason why they are well-equipped when they respond. Yes, but sometimes it can be that the heat is too much, or the conditions can get worse. But overall, they are very well-equipped for it, he signed off. Article Source: IANS

IPL 2026: When And Where To Watch RR Vs SRH, Know All Details

Indian Premier League: 2008 champions Rajasthan Royals (RR) will clash with 2016 winners Sunrisers Hyderabad (SRH) in the match number 36 of the Indian Premier League (IPL) 2026 to be played at Sawai Mansingh Stadium on Saturday. This will be the first rematch of the IPL 2026. SRH and RR previously faced each other on April 13 at Rajiv Gandhi Stadium in Hyderabad. SRH produced a dominant display both with the bat and ball as they bowled out RR for just 159 runs in 19 overs while chasing a total of 216 and won the match by 57 runs. SRH is coming to the contest after a dominant win over the Delhi Capitals. They have won four out of seven matches and are placed at number four in the points table with eight points and a positive net run rate of +0.820. The Rajasthan Royals are also entering the match with a big victory over the Lucknow Super Giants (LSG) in their last match. They have won five out of seven matches and are placed at number 2 in the points table with 10 points and a positive net run rate of 0.790. When: Saturday, April 25, 7:30 PM IST Where: Sawai Mansingh Stadium, Jaipur Where to watch: The RR vs SRH match will be broadcast on Star Sports channels, with JioHotstar live-streaming the game. Squads: Where to watch: The RR vs SRH match will be broadcast on Star Sports channels, with JioHotstar live-streaming the game. Also Read: Live Cricket Score Rajasthan Royals: Riyan Parag (c), Dhruv Jurel, Donovan Ferreira, Lhuan-Dre Pretorius, Ravi Singh, Aman Perala, Shimron Hetmyer, Shubham Dubey, Vaibhav Sooryavanshi, Yashasvi Jaiswal, Ravindra Jadeja, Dasun Shanaka, Adam Milne, Brijesh Sharma, Jofra Archer, Kuldeep Sen, Kwena Maphaka, Nandre Burger, Ravi Bishnoi, and Sandeep Sharma Article Source: IANS

'Been A Long Time Coming': Cummins Confirms His Availability For RR Clash

ICC T20 World Cup: 2016 champions Sunrisers Hyderabad (SRH) have received a big boost ahead of their clash against Rajasthan Royals (RR) at Sawai Mansingh Stadium as their designated captain Pat Cummins has confirmed that he will play his first match in the Indian Premier League (IPL) on Saturday. Cummins arrived in India ahead of the season, but didn't take part in the match. The 32-year-old flew back to Australia right after SRH's thrilling win over Kolkata Knight Riders (KKR) on April 2 for the scan on his back. Australian Test captain cleared the fitness test on Friday and has now confirmed that he will take the field against the Rajasthan Royals. Been a long time coming, stinging to get back into it tomorrow, Cummins shared in a social media post via his official Instagram handle, hinting at his return to the dressing room. The Australian pacer has not played a single match since the Ashes series at home against England. He also missed the recently concluded ICC T20 World Cup 2026, where Australia exited for the first time from the group stage. In his absence, SRH experimented with their pace attack and found success in debutant fast bowlers Praful Hinge and Sakib Hussain, both of whom claimed four-wicket hauls against RR at the Rajiv Gandhi International Stadium earlier this week. The Australian pacer has not played a single match since the Ashes series at home against England. He also missed the recently concluded ICC T20 World Cup 2026, where Australia exited for the first time from the group stage. Also Read: Live Cricket Score Cummins is likely to replace fast bowler Dilshan Madhushanka, who played just one match in the IPL 2026 so far and gave away 36 runs by taking just one wicket in four overs. Travis Head, Heinrich Klassen, and Eshan Malinga will be the other three overseas players in the SRH playing XI. Article Source: IANS

IPL 2026: 'Mumbai Indians Have Certainly Missed Rohit Sharma,' Says Aakash Chopra

Chennai Super Kings: Former India cricketer Aakash Chopra has pointed to the absence of veteran opener Rohit Sharma as a key reason behind the struggles of the Mumbai Indians (MI) in the ongoing Indian Premier League (IPL) 2026 season, following their heavy 103-run defeat to Chennai Super Kings (CSK) at the Wankhede Stadium in Mumbai on Thursday. Mumbai Indians' most successful captain and opener Rohit Sharma suffered a hamstring injury sustained against the Royal Challengers Bengaluru (RCB). The injury forced him to retire hurt, leading to him missing matches against the Punjab Kings and Chennai Super Kings. They have certainly missed Rohit Sharma. Without strong starts, chasing totals in the 210220 range becomes very difficult, Chopra told Jio Hotstar. He further noted that key senior batters, including India's T20 World Cup champions Suryakumar Yadav and Hardik Pandya, have failed to deliver consistently. Suryakumar Yadav and Hardik Pandya havent contributed enough so far. While there have been positives like Tilak Varmas hundred, the rest of the batting unit needs to step up, he said. Suryakumar has managed just 157 runs in the seven matches he has played for the Mumbai Indians in the IPL 2026 season at an average of 22.43 and a strike rate of 142.72. He has only one half-century to his name in the 19th edition of the T20 tournament, scoring 51 runs against the Delhi Capitals. He has just hit four sixes in the ongoing IPL season so far, along with 17 boundaries. While Hardik Pandya has had a challenging IPL 2026 season for the Mumbai Indians, scoring 97 runs in six matches at an average of 19.00. His scores include 1, 15, 14, 40, 9, and 18 not out, with a total strike rate of 140.58. MI, chasing a massive 208, were bundled out for just 104 as CSKs bowling attack dominated. Akeal Hosein led the charge with four wickets, while Noor Ahmad and others ensured regular breakthroughs. While Hardik Pandya has had a challenging IPL 2026 season for the Mumbai Indians, scoring 97 runs in six matches at an average of 19.00. His scores include 1, 15, 14, 40, 9, and 18 not out, with a total strike rate of 140.58. Also Read: Live Cricket Score With this loss, the Mumbai Indians have moved down to the eighth position with just four points in seven matches. They will next face Sunrisers Hyderabad (SRH) on April 29 at the same venue in a must-win encounter. Article Source: IANS

IPL 2026: 'They Need To Find Right Approach To Get Back To Winning,' Says Harbhajan On MI's Struggles

Indian Premier League: Former Indian spinner Harbhajan Singh feels that five-time champions Mumbai Indians (MI) are yet to find their rhythm in the ongoing Indian Premier League (IPL) 2026 and need to improve their mistakes to get back to winning ways. After suffering a thumping 103-run defeat, their biggest defeat in terms of runs in T20 history, against the Chennai Super Kings (CSK) at the Wankhede Stadium on Thursday, MI are hanging in the bottom half of the points table. The Mumbai Indians is a strong team, but they havent found their rhythm yet and are currently on a losing run. There have been a few mistakes, and the spinners have not performed as expected, Harbhajan told IANS. Former MI champion also urged other players to step up with their performances and to reduce the pressure on Jasprit Bumrah, who has a lot of burden of expectations. There are high expectations from Jasprit Bumrah, and he carries a significant workload... Other players also need to contribute and step up with their performances. The Mumbai Indians are a side that, once it starts winning, can be difficult to stop. They need to find the right approach to get back to winning, he added. Despite a poor start in the campaign, Harbhajan believes that the Mumbai Indians can still qualify for the playoffs if they follow the path of winning. Harbhajan's statement comes at a time when MI suffered their biggest loss against CSK in IPL history at Wankhede Stadium on Thursday. CSK delivered a dominant all-round performance, posting a formidable 207/6 after opting to bat first. Sanju Samson led from the front with a magnificent unbeaten 101, while contributions across the batting order ensured the total crossed the 200-run mark. Despite a poor start in the campaign, Harbhajan believes that the Mumbai Indians can still qualify for the playoffs if they follow the path of winning. Also Read: Live Cricket Score With this loss, the Mumbai Indians have moved down to the eighth position with just four points in seven matches. They will next face Sunrisers Hyderabad (SRH) on April 29 at the same venue in a must-win encounter. Article Source: IANS

'Very Few Understand How To Pace An Innings': Harbhajan Hails Samson's Game Awareness After Sparkling Ton Vs MI

Chennai Super Kings: Former India spinner Harbhajan Singh lauded wicketkeeper batter Sanju Samson for his exceptional game awareness after his brilliant century helped Chennai Super Kings (CSK) register a dominant 103-run victory over Mumbai Indians (MI). CSK posted a commanding 207/6 after batting first, with Samson anchoring the innings with his sparkling 101 off 54, while contributions from the middle order pushed the total past 207. In response, the Mumbai Indians collapsed to 104 in 19 overs despite brief resistance from Suryakumar Yadav and Tilak Varma. Sanju Samson stood out because of his game awareness. A lot of players have talent, but very few understand how to pace an innings in different situations, Harbhajan told Jio Hotstar. He recognised the importance of batting till the end, especially with a young side around him. After his half-century, he shifted gears, focused on singles and doubles, and ensured he stayed till the last phase. With wickets falling at the other end, he took responsibility and finished strongly. For me, this was one of the finest innings in terms of awareness and determination, he added. Harbhajan also praised CSKs spinners Akeal Hosein and Noor Ahmed, who took six wickets combined, especially their intent to get a breakthrough rather than opting for a defensive approach. After his half-century, he shifted gears, focused on singles and doubles, and ensured he stayed till the last phase. With wickets falling at the other end, he took responsibility and finished strongly. For me, this was one of the finest innings in terms of awareness and determination, he added. Also Read: Live Cricket Score Akeal Hosein, in particular, was outstanding. The way he dismissed Suryakumar Yadav, knowing his strength against the sweep, showed great awareness. For me, his spell was just as impactful as Samsons century. Four wickets in a game like this is no less than a match-winning contribution, he added. Article Source: IANS

'Happy Birthday Sachin': Cricket Fraternity Extends Heartfelt Wishes As 'God Of Cricket' Celebrates 53rd Birthday

Happy Birthday Sachin: As India's batting legend Sachin Tendulkar is celebrating his 53rd birthday on Friday, the cricket fraternity took to social media to extend heartfelt wishes. Conferred the Bharat Ratna in 2014, Tendulkar is a veteran of 15,921 runs in 200 Tests, besides amassing 18,426 runs in 463 ODIs. He had been a part of the Indian team at ODI World Cups since 1992 but had to wait till 2011 to fulfil his ultimate dream of clinching the World Cup after missing out on five previous occasions. Tendulkar is the only cricketer to have scored 100 centuries. Of his 100 international tons, 51 came in Tests and 49 in ODIs. He retired from ODI cricket in 2012, and a year later, in November 2013, he bid adieu to the game by retiring from all forms of cricket after playing his 200th Test. His retirement marked the end of an era in Indian cricket, leaving behind a legacy that continues to inspire aspiring cricketers around the globe. On the occasion of his 53rd birthday, the sports fraternity showered him with love and wished Tendulkar good health and happiness. ICC chairman Jay Shah hailed Tendulkar's contribution to the development of cricket. Sharing a post on X, the ICC Chairman wrote, Wishing our sport's icon @sachin_rt a very happy birthday. Your amazing contribution to cricket continues to inspire generations across the world to play and watch our great game, while your empathy and humanity has an ongoing and significant impact on society. The Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI) shared a post on X on Tendulkar's birthday and wrote, 664 international matches. 34,357 international runs. Only cricketer to score 100 international hundreds. Member of #TeamIndia's ICC Men's ODI World Cup 2011 winning campaign. Wishing the legendary Sachin Tendulkar a very happy birthday. Gujarat Titans batting coach and Aussie legend Matthew Hayden wished Sachin Tendulkar on his 53rd birthday through a heartfelt video posted on the franchises social media handles. I have seen God. He used to bat at number four for India. Happy birthday, Sachin, Hayden said in a video released by GT on Instagram. Sachin's son Arjun, who is playing for the Lucknow Super Giants in the Indian Premier League (IPL) 2026 season, had a sweet, short and simple birthday wish for his father, the Master Blaster. But, refused to eat cake, even on his birthday, as he is off sugar. In a video posted by his IPL team, Lucknow Super Giants, Arjun was seen pointing towards a cake, Happy Birthday. But I'm not going to eat this because I don't have sugar very often. I'll see you soon. Former India all-rounder Yuvraj Singh posted on X, Happy Birthday Paaji, sharing the field with you was an honour, but learning from you was even bigger. Your discipline, humility and love set the standard for all of us! Thank you for the memories and the inspiration you continue to be. Lots of love. Ex-India spin master Harbhajan Singh said, Happy Birthday paaji . May Waheguru continue to bless you with good health, wealth, happiness & peace. True legend, Master not just on the field but off the field too . Love Always. While Irfan Pathan wrote, When you say GOAT, I hear Sachin Tendulkar. When you say Master Blaster, I hear Sachin Tendulkar. When you say university of Cricket, I hear @sachin_rt.Your forever a student, wishing you a very happy birthday, Paaji. Former Indian opener Shikhar Dhawan wrote, Happy Birthday @sachin_rt paaji.An inspiration to generations, on and off the field. Wishing you great health and happiness always Sachin's IPL franchise, Mumbai Indians, wrote, The little boy who became every cricket lovers heartbeat. Happy Birthday, @sachin_rt Chennai Super Kings wrote,100/100 every time you stepped on the field. Every inning, a story defines the game for decades. Happy Birthday to the God of Cricket. Sachin's IPL franchise, Mumbai Indians, wrote, The little boy who became every cricket lovers heartbeat. Happy Birthday, @sachin_rt Also Read: Live Cricket Score Tendulkar shared a post on X with a photo of his wife, mother and pet dog and wrote, Perfect start to my day with Aai, Anjali and the trouble maker! What more could a man ask for? Article Source: IANS

RCB vs GT Match 34, IPL 2026: Preview, Predicted XIs, Player Tips & Match Prediction

RCB vs GT Match 34 , Cricket Tips : Royal Challengers Bengaluru suffered a heartbreaking defeat in their previous match against Delhi Capitals. Romario Shepherd failed to defend 15 runs in the final overs. That was their second defeat of the season. RCB have slipped to third on the table. They will take on Gujarat Titans on Friday. This contest will kick off at 7:30 PM IST at M. Chinnaswamy Stadium in Bengaluru. GT also lost their last game. They faced Mumbai Indians and suffered their biggest defeat in the IPL. Shubman Gill and co. will also be looking to get back into the winning ways with a good performance. RCB vs GT: Match Details Date : April 24, 2026 (Friday) Time : 7:30 PM IST Venue : R. Chinnaswamy Stadium, Bengaluru RCB vs GT Live Streaming Details Fans can watch the live action of the high-profile game on Friday on the Star Sports Network. The live stream will be played on the Jio Hotstar app or website. RCB vs GT Head-to-Head in IPL Total Matches : 06 MI : 03 CSK : 03 No - Result : 00 RCB vs GT: Ground Pitch Report Chinnaswamy Stadium is an excellent wicket to bat on. It is flat and doesn't do much for the bowlers. The shorter boundaries and fast outfield are another areas of concern for bowling sides. RCB vs GT Possible XIs RCB : Virat Kohli, Philip Salt, Devdutt Padikkal, Rajat Patidar (c), Tim David, Jitesh Sharma (wk), Romario Shepherd, Bhuvneshwar Kumar, Krunal Pandya, Suyash Sharma, Josh Hazlewood GT : Shubman Gill (c), Sai Sudharsan, Jos Buttler (wk), Glenn Phillips, Washington Sundar, Shahrukh Khan, Kagiso Rabada, Rashid Khan, Md. Siraj, Prasidh Krishna, Ashok Sharma RCB vs GT Player to Watch Out For Probable Best Batter Virat Kohli and Shubman Gill will be two batters, who are expected to score runs for their respective teams. Probable Best Bowler Bhuvneshwar Kumar and Rashid Khan are two experienced bowlers for each team and they are expected to deliver with the ball.Today Match Prediction: RCB have a strong batting unit. Hence, we predict Royal Challengers Bengaluru to win their game. RCB vs GT Match 33, IPL 2026, Today 2026 Match, 2026 Prediction, 2026 Predicted XIs, Injury Update for RCB 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.

Sachin Tendulkar turns 53, celebrates birthday with family and fans in Mumbai

Widely regarded as one of crickets greatest players, Tendulkars milestone birthday also brought renewed attention to his unmatched records, including being the highest run-scorer in international cricket and holding the most centuries across formats

4th WT20I: With Series Conceded To South Africa, India Seek To Fix Bowling Woes (Preview)

T20 World Cup: Having already conceded the five-match T20I series with two games to spare, India will enter the fourth game against South Africa, to be played at the Wanderers on Saturday, with an aim to solve a familiar and urgent crisis: a bowling unit looking in tatters at the moment. Despite a resurgent batting performance on Wednesday that saw India post 192/4 - their highest-ever T20I score against the Proteas - the Harmanpreet Kaur-led visitors were listless with the ball to stop a clinical South African chase, thanks to a whirlwind 115 by hosts skipper Laura Wolvaardt. The primary issue India must correct is their inability to pick wickets in power-play. In the third T20I, Laura and Sune Luus dismantled the Indian bowling attack with a 183-run opening stand. Apart from the bowling lacking penetration and falling off in execution, India havent posted their best fielding performance too. The absence of seam-bowling all-rounder Amanjot Kaur (back injury) has been felt, while Arundhati Reddy is also under injury cloud after leaving the field due to a strain in the last game. While their batting has largely clicked, for India to get a win in the remaining two matches, the focus is on the need to find a bowling plan that can challenge the mighty Proteas. South Africa, meanwhile, have strengthened their T20 World Cup preparation with a series win over India at home for the first time. For the hosts, who have won the toss thrice and aced chases on all three occasions, the fourth T20I is a chance to inch closer to a clean sweep over India something which they havent achieved before. The Wolvaardt-Luus pairing likely pushes Tazmin Brits to number three. While Marizanne Kapps eventual return will force a selection reshuffle, South Africas immediate focus remains on increasing Indias misery and whether the visitors can stop that, only time will tell. When: April 25, Saturday, 9:30 PM IST Where: Wanderers Stadium, Johannesburg Where to watch: Star Sports Network for live TV broadcast and JioHotstar for live streaming Squads: Where to watch: Star Sports Network for live TV broadcast and JioHotstar for live streaming Also Read: Live Cricket Score India: Harmanpreet Kaur (c), Shafali Verma, Smriti Mandhana, Jemimah Rodrigues, Richa Ghosh (wk), Kashvee Gautam, Arundhati Reddy, Shreyanka Patil, Deepti Sharma, Renuka Singh Thakur, Sree Charani, Anushka Sharma, Uma Chetry, Bharti Fulmali, and Kranti Gaud. Article Source: IANS

IPL 2026: Unbeaten PBKS Aim To Extend Perfect Run Against Inconsistent DC (Preview)

Indian Premier League: An unbeaten Punjab Kings will look to maintain a perfect run in the 2026 Indian Premier League (IPL) season when they face an inconsistent Delhi Capitals at the Arun Jaitley Stadium on Saturday afternoon. The contrast between the two teams is pretty evident PBKS have won five of their six games, with one ending in no-result, and sit at the top of the table. DC, meanwhile, have three wins and as many losses, to be at sixth position in the points tally. What makes Punjab so formidable is the stability in their line-up. Shreyas Iyer's side has used only 12 players all season - the fewest personnel used by any team - and that stability in selection has translated directly into role clarity. Their batting unit has been the finest in the ten-team competition - their overall run-rate chart is at 11.3, they are the joint-best scoring team in the powerplay (11.3) and best in scoring runs in the middle overs (11 runs per over). They have hit 69 sixes - the second best for a team in the tournament - and have simply not allowed opposition bowlers to settle. Their openers, Priyansh Arya and Prabhsimran Singh, have been the foundation of this dominance. Delhi-based Arya has 211 runs at a strike rate of 248 and his powerplay numbers are equally surreal: 152 runs at a strike rate of 258. Prabhsimran has matched him almost exactly - 211 runs at an average of 52.8, with a strike rate of 187 against pace. As an opening pair, Arya and Prabhsimran have carried on the good work done in IPL 2025 they have put on 197 runs in five innings at a strike rate of 221. Behind them, Cooper Connolly has emerged as one of the finds of the season. The Australian batting all-rounder has scored 223 runs at 55.8 and, crucially, he has shown the temperament to absorb an early wobble before accelerating. Skipper Shreyas Iyer has been in fine nick by scoring three fifties and returns to a venue familiar to him owing to being previously the captain of Delhi Capitals, including being runners-up in the 2020 season. Iyer is all set to play an IPL game in New Delhi for the first time since 2019 and he will be keen to treat the crowd to a great show from his willow. PBKS bowling has been about them performing as a collective rather than being a one-man effort. Arshdeep Singh, wicketless in his first three outings, has found his rhythm and confidence and picked six wickets in the last three games. Marco Jansen, Xavier Bartlett and Vyshak Vijaykumar have done their jobs well, while leg-spinner Yuzvendra Chahal remains their main threat in the middle overs. In short, PBKS are firing on all cylinders and to derail their winning juggernaut, DC must find a way to bridge the gap between flashes of individual brilliance and collective execution. If Arya and Prabhsimran get going at their usual clip, DC will need their bowlers to take wickets quickly - something that has not happened consistently. DCs run-rate of 8.7 in the first six overs with the bat is the third-lowest in the competition, and onus will be on openers Pathum Nissanka and KL Rahul to match that intent, especially if they are to successfully chase down anything above 200. Beyond them, DC have shuffled their batting order in almost every game and constantly changing their impact player choice has meant they havent zeroed on a settled combination. While David Miller has been excellent in the death overs, despite falling for a duck in the last game, Tristan Stubbs, despite adapting his game very well as per the situations, needs to overcome his slow starts. With the ball, Axar and Kuldeep Yadav need to produce their best performances simultaneously - something that has not happened enough. Against SRH, they curiously bowled only two overs each, even as part-time off-spinner Nitish Rana bowled four overs and leaked 55 runs. Lungi Ngidi and T Natarajan are among the most economical bowlers in overs 17-20 this season and are DCs best hope of inflicting a late-innings squeeze on a formidable PBKS batting line-up. For now, another win for PBKS would see them maintain their best start in an IPL season, while a defeat for DC will put them at the risk of falling further behind in a tightening race to the playoffs. When: Saturday, April 25, 3:30PM IST Where: Arun Jaitley Stadium, New Delhi Where to watch: Star Sports Network for live TV broadcast and JioHotstar for live streaming Squads Where to watch: Star Sports Network for live TV broadcast and JioHotstar for live streaming Also Read: Live Cricket Score Punjab Kings: Shreyas Iyer (captain), Priyansh Arya, Prabhsimran Singh (wicketkeeper), Nehal Wadhera, Shashank Singh, Marcus Stoinis, Cooper Connolly, Vijaykumar Vyshak, Arshdeep Singh, Yuzvendra Chahal, Marco Jansen, Azmatullah Omarzai, Harpreet Brar, Suryansh Shedge, Vishnu Vinod, Xavier Bartlett, Yash Thakur, Mitchell Owen, Harnoor Singh, Musheer Khan, Pyla Avinash, Lockie Ferguson, Ben Dwarshuis, Pravin Dubey, and Vishal Nishad Article Source: IANS

'Intensity Of MI-CSK Rivalry Brought The Best In Me': Samson

Chennai Super Kings: Chennai Super Kings (CSK) wicketkeeper-batter Sanju Samson revealed that the high expectations and the pressure to score against arch-rivals Mumbai Indians (MI) motivated him to perform to the best of his capabilities and score a match-winning hundred at the Wankhede Stadium. Samson's sparkling 101 off 54, laced with 10 fours and six sixes powered CSK to a total of 207/6. In reply, MI kept losing wickets at regular intervals, and were shot out for just 104 in 19 overs. It's a very big occasion in IPL, everyone looks up to the CSK, my game, and I have been a part of this for the first time. So I could see the build-up, I could see the intensity coming on, so that's when my best also comes out, Samson said in a video released by IPL on X. I like the challenges, I like when it's tough, so I really enjoyed the game today, I think the wicket was not a normal Wankhede wicket, the ball was swinging around, Bumrah was bowling with a new ball, so it was a very competitive game to be honest, so I think I'm very happy that I contributed and we had a victory today, he added. CSK delivered a dominant all-round performance after opting to bat first. Samson led from the front with a magnificent unbeaten 101, while the likes of Dewald Brevis (21) and Kartik Sharma (18) also contributed handy runs. In response, MI struggled from the outset and were eventually bowled out for 104 in 19 overs. Akeal Hosein starred with the ball, picking up four wickets, while Noor Ahmad provided crucial support. According to Samson, even the small contributions from every player made a huge difference in the game. I think with the amount of youngsters in the team, I would definitely like to give credit to all the players who have contributed, it's not about the 100 or the 4 wickets, I think all the small contributions from the batsmen and bowlers really counts in this big game, so very happy for the victory, I think we would like to keep the momentum going and look positive from the next game, he said. The 31-year-old also shed light on the feeling when he came close to a hundred and revealed the conversation with Akeal Hosein before the last over, in which Samson played all the deliveries and smashed 16 runs against Krish Bhagat and completed his second century of the season. I think with the amount of youngsters in the team, I would definitely like to give credit to all the players who have contributed, it's not about the 100 or the 4 wickets, I think all the small contributions from the batsmen and bowlers really counts in this big game, so very happy for the victory, I think we would like to keep the momentum going and look positive from the next game, he said. Also Read: Live Cricket Score So luckily I got a big over and I got close to the 100 and me and Akhil had a chat before that over that I would like to face all six balls that over, I think we were looking to get maximum there and he also felt the same, so very happy, I think and definitely always feels very special to score a 100 and when it comes against MI in Wankhede, it's a super special feeling, he added. Article Source: IANS

Santner Felt Dizzy, We Took Him For A Scan: Jayawardene Explains Concussion Sub Of Shardul For Santner

Chennai Super Kings: After questions were raised about why Shardul Thakur had replaced Mitchell Santner as a concussion substitute during Mumbai Indians (MI) chase against Chennai Super Kings despite not being in the playing XI, MI head coach Mahela Jayawardene explained that Santner went for a scan after he complained of dizziness, and it was then that they approached the match referee for a concussion substitute. Santner was seen walking off the field holding his shoulder after he ran in from sweeper cover to pull off a diving catch to dismiss Kartik Sharma, with replays showing that the Kiwi all-rounder's head hit the ground while attempting the catch. During the chase, MI had subbed out AM Ghazanfar to bring in opener Danish Malewar as the impact player. However, with MI's chase going nowhere, Shardul walked in to bat at No. 8 as a concussion substitute, raising more than a few eyebrows. Explaining the decision, Jayawardene said Santer went for a scan after he complained of dizziness, and the team requested a concussion sub only after the player reported feeling unstable I think he hit his head first, neck, obviously the shoulder as well. He went for a scan because once he got back, he felt dizzy. So, he was lying down. Yes, the ice was there for the shoulder. But he felt that he wasn't stable. So, we took him for a scan in that situation. We requested (for a concussion substitute). Obviously, it is at the match referee and the umpire's discretion. They allowed Shardul. Mitch will be disappointed that his batting powers are matched to Shardul Thakur. But it is what it is. But hopefully, it's not too bad, Jayawardene said in a post-match press conference. I think he hit his head first, neck, obviously the shoulder as well. He went for a scan because once he got back, he felt dizzy. So, he was lying down. Yes, the ice was there for the shoulder. But he felt that he wasn't stable. So, we took him for a scan in that situation. We requested (for a concussion substitute). Also Read: Live Cricket Score Praising the young spinners effort, Mahela shared, Allah Ghazanfar bowled well. He is very brave and maturing with time. The more games he plays in the middle. he will learn a lot. We, as a unit, will keep backing him to do what he does best, he added. Article Source: IANS

I Thought We Found Rhythm After Ahmedabad Win, But We Lost It: MI Coach Jayawardene

After Mumbai Indians: After Mumbai Indians' (IANS) thumping 103-run defeat against the Chennai Super Kings (CSK), head coach Mahela Jayawardene admitted that his side have done well in patches but there is hole in MI's bowling and stressed the importance of regrouping, learning and coming back with positive intent. Ridding on Sanju Samson's (101 not out), laced with 10 fours and six sixes, CSK 207/6. In reply, MI never got going, as the hosts kept losing wickets at regular intervals, and were shot out for just 104 in 19 overs. Akeal Hosein was outstanding for CSK, registering figures of 4-17. We have managed just four points from seven matches. Disappointed to have lost this game. We lost our rhythm in the two powerplays itself, first with the ball and then with the bat. We have a break now, we will think and discuss what we need to do in the next seven games. Here too, we bowled well in patches but when 20-plus extra runs are given away, it is difficult to claw back into the game. As a team we all have to improve, Jayawardene said in a post match presser. If you analyse the seven games, yes, there was a hole in our bowling and we got some fresh faces in there. The win against Gujarat Titans in] Ahmedabad looked good. Again, here, I thought in patches we bowled well. It is just execution-wise, consistency-wise, I think we are one of the teams that has given the highest number of big overs - 18-plus overs, if you look at the half-season, he added. MII fell short in the powerplay, both with ball and bat. They scored their lowest powerplay total against CSK in the IPL on a day when their opponents had scored their second-highest total in that phase against them. Once you lose a match like that, it's difficult to even analyse it. But probably where we lost both the powerplays with the ball and with the bat, we just couldn't get to the game. We had a great game in Ahmedabad, I thought we found some rhythm, but again, we lost that rhythm. MII fell short in the powerplay, both with ball and bat. They scored their lowest powerplay total against CSK in the IPL on a day when their opponents had scored their second-highest total in that phase against them. Also Read: Live Cricket Score With two wins in seven matches, MI are hanging in the bottom half of the points table, and now have a five-day break to regroup when they host Sunrisers Hyderabad on April 29. Article Source: IANS

Was Krish Bhagat MI's best option for the 16th and 20th overs?

Ambati Rayudu and Mitchell McClenaghan feel the batting positions of Tilak Varma and Sherfane Rutherford should be swapped

Samson moves to No. 3 on IPL 2026 Orange Cap table, Kamboj reclaims Purple Cap

Here's what the Orange and Purple Cap tables at IPL 2026 look like after Chennai Super Kings' big win over Mumbai Indians on Thursday

'Milestone' As Building Starts On LA Olympic Cricket Stadium

Cricket's return to the Olympic Games after 128 years reached an important milestone Wednesday when construction began on the new Los Angeles 2028 cricket venue. International Cricket Council chairman Jay Shah and other officials took part in a ground-breaking ceremony on the Fairplex Grounds in Pomona, Los Angeles County. Our focus has been on expanding the footprint of cricket and being part of the Olympic movement is something that brings both pride and dreams with it, said Shah. The groundbreaking marks an important milestone in cricket's return to the Olympics and is a proud moment for all ICC members and stakeholders worldwide. ICC chief executive Sanjog Gupta said the Games would be a significant step in expanding the game outside of its traditional heartlands. The momentum for our game has never been stronger, with strong participation growth across the world, he said. The inclusion of cricket at LA28 provides a platform to inspire more young people to take up the game, the ICC said, and broaden the fan base across continents, accelerating the game's global growth. Also Read: Live Cricket Score Cricket at the Los Angeles Games will feature T20 competitions for both men's and women's teams.

New Coach Gary Kirsten Faces 'A Lot Of Learning' To Rebuild Sri Lanka

New Sri Lanka head coach Gary Kirsten says understanding the island's cricketing identity will be central to rebuilding the team for the World Cup. The 58-year-old former South Africa opener started last week on a two-year contract that will see him in charge for the 50-over World Cup next year. I need to understand the culture really well, understand what makes the players tick, understand the environment, Kirsten told reporters in Colombo. I've got a lot of learning to do as I go through this journey. Kirsten was India coach from 2008 to 2011, taking them to World Cup glory, then coached South Africa from 2011 to 2013. He was appointed by Sri Lanka after Sanath Jayasuriya left the position before his term was due to expire at the end of June. Sri Lanka co-hosted the T20 World Cup with eventual winners India but crashed out at the Super Eights stage, their fate sealed by a 61-run defeat to New Zealand. Kirsten said he would work with translators -- but that English works quite well in cricket as a language of communication. I've worked across a lot of different cultures and countries, so I've had a bit of experience in that space, he said. Also Read: Live Cricket Score The 2027 World Cup will be co-hosted by South Africa, Zimbabwe and Namibia.

'We lost that rhythm' - Jayawardene points to powerplays for big loss to CSK

We are one of the teams that has given the highest number of big overs, Mahela Jayawardene says about Mumbai Indians' lack of consistency in IPL 2026

Gaikwad dedicates CSK's 103-run win against MI to Mukesh Choudhary

The left-arm seamer played his part in CSK's win against MI following the death of his mother on Tuesday

IPL 2026: 'I Would Dedicate This Win To Mukesh,' Says Gaikwad As CSK Beat MI

Chennai Super Kings: Skipper Ruturaj Gaikwad dedicated Chennai Super Kings comprehensive 103-run victory to Mukesh Choudhary, who featured in the match despite the recent demise of his mother, as players wore black armbands in tribute during their clash against Mumbai Indians (MI) in Match 33 of the Indian Premier League (IPL) 2026 at Wankhede Stadium on Thursday. Pretty tough on him (Mukesh Choudhary), I would dedicate this win to him. All glory to him. Everyone chipped in and wanted to be there for him. Feels good (on the win), Gaikwad said after the match. CSK delivered a dominant all-round performance, posting a formidable 207/6 after opting to bat first. Sanju Samson led from the front with a magnificent unbeaten 101, while contributions across the batting order ensured the total crossed the 200-run mark. In response, the Mumbai Indians struggled from the outset and were eventually bowled out for 104 in 19 overs. Akeal Hosein starred with the ball, picking up four wickets, while Noor Ahmad provided crucial support. Speaking about the decision at the toss, Gaikwad revealed it was instinctive. My gut feeling wanted me to bat first. Sanju and I said that it wasn't coming on nicely. He credited the collective batting effort, highlighting the importance of small contributions. Everyone chipped in really well. Even the 20s helped. Sanju played a magnificent knock and took us home, He said. Mukesh to Quinton de Kock, that set the momentum. He started really well, he added. Praising the bowling unit and team balance, he added, Its a blessing to have Akeal and Noor. Everyone is settling. Everyone is calm and composed. Mukesh to Quinton de Kock, that set the momentum. He started really well, he added. Also Read: Live Cricket Score Meanwhile, after the win, CSK have moved up to the fifth position in the points table with six points in seven matches. They will next face the Gujarat Titans on April 26. Article Source: IANS

Bates to retire from international cricket after T20 World Cup

I have one final mission: to head to the UK and win another World Cup, she says

Khushdil pulls off stunning chase to end Karachi Kings' losing streak

Karachi Kings chased down Lahore Qalandars' total of 199 with eight balls to spare

IPL 2026: 'We Could Not Cope After Losing Early Wickets,' Says Pandya As MI Suffer Heavy Defeat

Chennai Super Kings: Skipper Hardik Pandya admitted that early wickets in the Power-play hurt the Mumbai Indians (MI) badly as they stumbled to a heavy defeat against Chennai Super Kings (CSK) in Match 33 of the Indian Premier League (IPL) 2026 at the Wankhede Stadium in Mumbai on Thursday. I think that in the power play, losing that early wicket is always going to be tricky. You are always chasing the game, and we could not cope after that, Pandya said after the match. Chasing a daunting 208, the Mumbai Indians never found momentum and were bowled out for just 104 in 19 overs. Left-arm spinner Akeal Hosein starred with the ball, picking up four wickets, while Noor Ahmad chipped in with crucial breakthroughs. Earlier, Sanju Samson had powered CSK to 207/6 with a brilliant unbeaten 101, supported by handy contributions from the middle order. Pandya, however, refused to blame the pitch conditions for the defeat. I would not say that. Im not someone who would like to say that. They batted well; they scored 207. It was the same track, it was the same soil. We should have just batted well, he added. He acknowledged the role of spinners but credited CSKs batting effort. Yes, I think even our spinners bowled pretty well. Its just that Sanju played an outstanding knock. At the same point in time, their batters kept coming and kind of chipping in and got them to a decent total, I think more than a decent total on that track. For us to chase this down, we needed to have a good power play, and the momentum had to be with us, but that could not happen, he added. He acknowledged the role of spinners but credited CSKs batting effort. Yes, I think even our spinners bowled pretty well. Its just that Sanju played an outstanding knock. At the same point in time, their batters kept coming and kind of chipping in and got them to a decent total, I think more than a decent total on that track. Also Read: Live Cricket Score Meanwhile, after the defeat, MI have moved down to the eighth position with just four points in seven matches. They will next face Sunrisers Hyderabad (SRH) on April 29. Article Source: IANS

Samson century, Hosein four-for hand Mumbai Indians their biggest defeat

Noor Ahmad also picked up two wickets as MI, chasing 208 were bowled out for just 104 in 19 overs

IPL 2026: Samson's Ton, Hosein's Four-fer Power CSK To 103-run Win Over MI

Chennai Super Kings: Left-arm spinner Akeal Hosein starred with a four-wicket haul as the Mumbai Indians (MI) were bowled out for just 104 in 19 overs while chasing 208, handing Chennai Super Kings (CSK) a commanding 103-run victory in Match 33 of the Indian Premier League (IPL) 2026 at the iconic Wankhede Stadium in Mumbai on Thursday. Earlier, opener Sanju Samson's brilliant unbeaten century off 56 balls helped CSK reach 207/6 despite losing wickets at regular intervals while batting first. Chasing a daunting target, the Mumbai Indians had a shaky start as opener Danish Malewar fell early, edging a delivery from Akeal Hosein to wicketkeeper Sanju Samson. The early pressure intensified when Mukesh Choudhary struck in the following over, clean bowling Quinton de Kock for just 7 runs. Hosein continued to trouble the batters and removed the in-form Naman Dhir with a sharp delivery that rattled the stumps. With three quick wickets down, Mumbai were pushed onto the back foot early. Suryakumar Yadav and Tilak Varma attempted to rebuild the innings, but runs were hard to come by initially as they managed just 29 runs in the powerplay. The pair gradually settled in and began to find boundaries, taking the score to 69/3 at the halfway stage. However, just when the partnership looked threatening, Hosein struck again in the 13th over to dismiss Varma for 37 off 29 balls, breaking a crucial 73-run stand. Mumbais hopes suffered a major blow immediately after, as captain Hardik Pandya fell for a duck to Noor Ahmad, while Sherfane Rutherford was dismissed on the very next ball. Hosein capped off a brilliant spell by removing Suryakumar for 36, effectively ending Mumbais resistance. Shardul Thakur, who came in as a concussion substitute for Mitchell Santner, tried to stay till the end but could only manage 6 runs. Hosein was the standout performer with exceptional figures of 4/17, while Noor Ahmad chipped in with two key wickets. Gurjapneet Singh applied the finishing touch by dismissing Jasprit Bumrah in the 19th over, sealing a dominant victory for CSK. Chennai Super Kings made a strong start after being asked to bat first, with Sanju Samson and captain Ruturaj Gaikwad attacking early and scoring 26 runs in the first two overs, including 19 off Hardik Pandya. Gaikwad fell for 22 in the third over, but Samson continued the aggressive approach and took Pandya apart again in the fourth over as CSK crossed 50 quickly. Sarfaraz Khan added quick runs before being bowled by Mitchell Santner for 14, with CSK finishing the powerplay at 73/2. Allah Ghazanfar then removed Shivam Dube with a carrom ball to pull things back. Dewald Brevis counterattacked with 21 off 11 before falling to Ashwani Kumar. Samson held the innings together, reaching his fifty in just 26 balls. Kartik struggled for timing and was dismissed by Jasprit Bumrah for 18, while Jamie Overton chipped in with a quick 15. In the death overs, Samson dominated and brought up his century in 54 balls. He remained unbeaten on 101, hitting 10 fours and six sixes to power CSK past 200. For the Mumbai Indians, Ghazanfar (2/25) and Ashwani Kumar were the standout bowlers. Samson held the innings together, reaching his fifty in just 26 balls. Kartik struggled for timing and was dismissed by Jasprit Bumrah for 18, while Jamie Overton chipped in with a quick 15. Also Read: Live Cricket Score Chennai Super Kings 207/6 in 20 overs (Sanju Samson 101*, Ruturaj Gaikwad 22; AM Ghazanfar 2-25, Ashwani Kumar 2-37) beat Mumbai Indians 104 all out in 19 overs (Tilak Varma 37, Suryakumar Yadav 36; Akeal Hosein 4-17, Noor Ahmed 2-24) by 103 runs Article Source: IANS

'He brings that magic dust' - The inside story of Bellingham's Phoenix investment

Warwickshire and Knighthead Capital apply Tom Brady model by bringing Birmingham's highest-profile footballer on board

BCB withdraws NOCs for Mustafizur Rahman, Nahid Rana for remainder of PSL 2026

Mustafizur has been nursing a knee injury and Rana will manage his workload

IPL 2026: Samsons Unbeaten Ton Powers CSK To 207/6 Against MI

Chennai Super Kings: Opener Sanju Samson hammered a brilliant unbeaten century, his second of Indian Premier League (IPL) 2026, as Chennai Super Kings (CSK) posted 207/6 in 20 overs against Mumbai Indians (MI) at the iconic Wankhede Stadium in Mumbai on Thursday. After being asked to bat first, CSK got off to a strong start. Samson and captain Ruturaj Gaikwad attacked from the beginning, scoring 26 runs in the first two overs, including 19 runs off Hardik Pandyas second over. Mumbai got their first breakthrough in the third over when Gaikwad was dismissed for 22 off 14 balls. Despite losing a wicket, Samson kept the momentum going and again took on Pandya, collecting 19 runs in the fourth over bowled by the Mumbai Indians skipper as CSK crossed the 50-run mark quickly. Sarfaraz Khan played a few attacking shots but was bowled by Mitchell Santner for 14 off 8 balls in the last over of the Power-play. CSK ended the first six overs at 73/2. After the fielding restrictions were lifted, the Mumbai Indians struck again as AM Ghazanfar bowled Shivam Dube with a clever carrom ball. Dewald Brevis then struck some runs, hitting two sixes and a four before getting out for 21 off 11 balls to Ashwani Kumar. At the other end, Samson continued to bat with confidence and reached his fifty in just 26 balls. He held the innings together even as wickets kept falling. Young batter Kartik tried to accelerate in the middle overs with a couple of sixes but struggled later and was dismissed by Jasprit Bumrah for 18 off 19 balls. Jamie Overton provided a late boost with a quick 15 off 7 balls. In the final overs, Samson dominated the bowling and brought up his century in style, reaching the milestone in 54 balls with a six. He remained unbeaten on 101, hitting 10 fours and 6 sixes, helping CSK cross the 200-run mark. For the Mumbai Indians, Ghazanfar was the pick of the bowlers with 2/25, while Ashwani Kumar also picked up two wickets. In the final overs, Samson dominated the bowling and brought up his century in style, reaching the milestone in 54 balls with a six. He remained unbeaten on 101, hitting 10 fours and 6 sixes, helping CSK cross the 200-run mark. Also Read: Live Cricket Score Chennai Super Kings 207/6 in 20 overs (Sanju Samson 101*, Ruturaj Gaikwad 22; AM Ghazanfar 2-25, Ashwani Kumar 2-37) against Mumbai Indians Article Source: IANS

Ben Charlesworth to join Lancashire at the end of the season

Allrounder to remain at Bristol for the summer before moving to Emirates Old Trafford on a three-year deal

IPL 2026: Delhi Capitals Announce Rehan Ahmed As Ben Duckett's Replacement

Indian Premier League: Delhi Capitals (DC) have signed England all-rounder Rehan Ahmed as a replacement for his compatriot Ben Duckett for the remainder of the Indian Premier League (IPL) 2026 season. According to an official IPL media advisory, Rehan has been roped in for a fee of INR 75 lakh. The 21-year-old right-arm leg-spinner has represented England in all three formats, featuring in five Tests, nine ODIs, and 13 T20Is, and has taken a total of 49 international wickets so far. Duckett had withdrawn from what would have been his maiden IPL stint just before the start of the tournament in order to focus on his England commitments following a challenging Ashes tour. The Capitals did not name an immediate replacement at the time, instead opting to reshuffle their batting order, with Pathum Nissanka opening alongside KL Rahul. Rehan, who initially gained attention for his wrist-spin bowling, has also made significant progress with the bat. Playing for Leicestershire, he enjoyed an impressive 2025 County Championship campaign, scoring 760 runs at an average of 50.66, including five centuries, while also picking up 23 wickets at an average of 19. He made waves earlier this year during the 2026 T20 World Cup for breaking crucial partnerships. Rehan has represented England in 13 T20Is, picking up 15 wickets. He also has experience in playing other global tournaments like the BBL and The Hundred. Rehan, who initially gained attention for his wrist-spin bowling, has also made significant progress with the bat. Playing for Leicestershire, he enjoyed an impressive 2025 County Championship campaign, scoring 760 runs at an average of 50.66, including five centuries, while also picking up 23 wickets at an average of 19. Also Read: Live Cricket Score The Axar Patel-led side will next face table toppers Punjab Kings (PBKS) at Arun Jaitley Stadium on Saturday. Article Source: IANS

IPL 2026: Priyansh And Vaibhav Already Know Exactly How They Want To Play The Game, Says Pujara

Indian Premier League: The rise of fearless prodigies has been the defining theme of the Indian Premier League (IPL) 2026, with young Priyansh Arya and teenaged Vaibhav Sooryavanshi emerging as the standout names. Both have consistently provided explosive starts in the Power-play, combining intent with maturity beyond their years. Former India Test batter Cheteshwar Pujara pointed out that the success of Arya and Sooryavanshi is because they know exactly how they want to play T20 cricket. What stands out for me is not just the stroke play, its the clarity. At that age, most players are still figuring out where they belong, but Priyansh and Vaibhav already know exactly how they want to play the game. Its not about reckless hitting; its about backing your intent without second-guessing. Vaibhav brings that raw, uncompromising power, while Priyansh gives you time on the ball that you simply cant teach. Together, theyre redefining what a Power-play can look like, and more importantly, theyre doing it on their own terms. Obviously, they will continue to improve and grow, but what I am seeing at such a young age is very exciting, said Pujara on JioHotstars Champions Waali Commentary. The performances by Arya and Sooryavanshi have underlined five key traits fearlessness beyond their age, a game plan which is tailor-made for T20 cricket, contrasting methods of brute power versus timing, fetching them big runs, the ability to shift gears, and staying original without imitating established stars. Sooryavanshis raw muscle power has allowed him to clear boundaries with ease, while Aryas timing and placement have produced equally destructive results. Both have shown adaptability in pacing innings when required, as seen in Sooryavanshis fifty against Chennai Super Kings and Aryas measured half-century in a steep chase against Sunrisers Hyderabad. Sooryavanshi has made 254 runs in seven innings, while Arya has amassed 211 runs in five matches. Umesh Yadav, veteran Indian pacer, also praised the young batters for being in a rich vein of form in IPL 2026. There's no question about talent, but what separates these boys is their ability to adapt within the same innings. Sooryavanshis raw muscle power has allowed him to clear boundaries with ease, while Aryas timing and placement have produced equally destructive results. Both have shown adaptability in pacing innings when required, as seen in Sooryavanshis fifty against Chennai Super Kings and Aryas measured half-century in a steep chase against Sunrisers Hyderabad. Also Read: Live Cricket Score The fearless approach is just the surface; underneath that is game awareness, match-ups, and a strong sense of identity. Theyre not trying to be like anyone, theyre comfortable being themselves, and thats why theyve become the standout young batters this season, he added. Article Source: IANS

Clash of contrasts at the Chinnaswamy as RCB host GT

The two sets of batters couldn't be more different from each other, but where RCB and GT are similar is in the ability of their fast-bowling packs

IPL 2026: CSK Players Wear Black Armbands In Tribute To Mukesh Choudharys Mother

Chennai Super Kings: Players of Chennai Super Kings (CSK) wore black armbands during their Indian Premier League (IPL) match against Mumbai Indians (MI) at the Wankhede Stadium in Mumbai on Thursday as a mark of respect following the passing of pacer Mukesh Choudharys mother. The franchise confirmed earlier in the day that Choudharys mother had passed on Tuesday after battling illness for a long time. In a message shared by the team, CSK expressed their condolences and support for the young pacer and his family during the difficult period. The CSK family mourns the passing of Mukesh Choudharys mother. We stand with Mukesh and his family, keeping them in our thoughts and prayers during this incredibly difficult time, the franchise said. In a show of solidarity, the entire team took the field wearing black armbands. The gesture was aimed at honouring the memory of Choudharys mother and standing by their teammate in his time of grief. Despite the personal loss, Choudhary rejoined the squad ahead of the clash and was included in the playing XI for the match against the Mumbai Indians, reflecting his commitment to the team. Mukesh has played only one match for the franchise in IPL 2026, where he took two crucial wickets of Travis Head and Ishan Kishan against Sunrisers Hyderabad (SRH). Mukesh made his debut for CSK in 2022 in the IPL, taking 16 wickets in that season. Known for swinging the new ball, he has 19 total wickets in 17 matches across his IPL career, with best figures of 4/46. Mukesh has played only one match for the franchise in IPL 2026, where he took two crucial wickets of Travis Head and Ishan Kishan against Sunrisers Hyderabad (SRH). Also Read: Live Cricket Score Meanwhile, veteran wicketkeeper-batter MS Dhoni is yet to recover from a calf strain and did not feature in the high-profile clash. The 44-year-old, who had been training with the squad ahead of the game, continues to wait for his first appearance of the IPL 2026 season. Article Source: IANS

Rehan Ahmed replaces Ben Duckett at Delhi Capitals

This will be the England allrounder's first stint in the IPL

Rawalpindiz break duck in penultimate game of their season

Asif Afridi, Mohammad Amir, Saad Masood and Dian Forrester combined forces to stop Islamabad United at 137, before the Rawalpindiz batters got to the target with 11 balls in hand

UAE captain Waseem fined and handed demerit point for criticising umpiring

Waseem said the umpiring was biased during the second T20I against Nepal

IPL 2026: 'I Am Comfortable Everywhere,' Says Naman Dhir On Batting Role For MI

Indian Premier League: Mumbai Indians (MI) batter Naman Dhir said he is ready to bat in any position for the team, stressing his flexibility ahead of their high-profile clash against Chennai Super Kings (CSK) at Wankhede Stadium in Mumbai on Thursday. I am comfortable everywhere, I do not have any problem with that. But yes, if you get more time in a game to settle in, then obviously why not, Dhir said while speaking to broadcasters before the match. The youngster revealed that he was asked to prepare for a top-order role at short notice due to Rohit Sharma dealing with a minor hamstring niggle. Unfortunately, Rohit Sharma bhai had a niggle in his hamstring. After that, one day before the match, I was told. Mahela Jayawardene told me that I might bat at number three, he said. The young batter grabbed the opportunity with both hands as he smashed 45 runs off just 32 balls against the Gujarat Titans (GT) in their last match. Dhir added that the shift was not new to him as he bats in the top order in domestic cricket. Actually, I bat in the top order for my domestic team as well, so it was nothing new for me. I just faced the new ball in the nets, so I felt I was ready, he explained. Looking ahead to the clash, Dhir expects a charged-up atmosphere given the rivalry between the two teams. There are some very big players playing for both teams, like MS Dhoni bhai is here. Both teams are five-time champions, so I guess that is why it is such a rivalry. The special moment is that the atmosphere today will be very good; it will be electrifying. There will be tremendous support for both teams, so we are looking forward to winning this game, he said. Dhir added that the shift was not new to him as he bats in the top order in domestic cricket. Actually, I bat in the top order for my domestic team as well, so it was nothing new for me. I just faced the new ball in the nets, so I felt I was ready, he explained. Also Read: Live Cricket Score There are a lot of positive conversations happening. And if you look at slow starts, it has been a trend with the Mumbai Indians, so we are not too worried. We have just come here to play good cricket, and we will do that today, he added. Article Source: IANS