Rajasthan Royals sold to consortium of US-based investors for US $1.635 billion
Bid included ownership of all of Royals' branded teams: Paarl Royals in SA20, and Barbados Royals in CPL
Impact Player rule to stay at least until 2027: IPL authorities to captains
Introduced in 2023, the Impact Player rule allows teams to make a substitution at any stage during the match
More IPL teams may bat for stake sale
IPL franchise valuations have seen a sharp increase. This rise is prompting some team owners to consider selling stakes. New deals have set benchmarks between $1.6-1.8 billion. This presents opportunities for partial monetization. Investor appetite remains strong for IPL assets. Future growth lies in global expansion and revenue diversification.
Mohamed Salah's long goodbye brings curtain down on golden era for Liverpool
Mohamed Salah's long goodbye from Liverpool signals the end of a glorious era and leaves the Premier League giants facing another expensive rebuild. The Egyptian superstar announced on Tuesday that he would be leaving Anfield at the end of the season after a glittering nine-year spell at the club.
IPL franchise valuations surge after RCB Rs 16,660-crore deal
Aditya Birla Group, The Times of India (publishers of The Economic Times), Bolt Ventures and a Blackstone fund, acting in a consortium, acquired current champions RCB for $1.78 billion. United Spirits, a subsidiary of Diageo, exited the franchise.
IPL 2026 Countdown | Mumbai Indians banks on a galaxy of stars to end drought
The power-packed Mumbai franchise is chasing its first silverware since 2020; finding the right combination early in the tournament is the key for the Hardik-led team
Gujarat Titans pick left-arm pacer to replace injured Prithviraj Yarra
Gujarat Titans signed Kulwant Khejroliya as replacement for injured Prithviraj Yarra ahead of IPL 2026. Captain Shubman Gill stressed calm, confident leadership and long-term vision. Director Vikram Solanki highlighted minimal squad changes and continuity. With a strong core and clear approach, Gujarat Titans begin their campaign aiming to build on past success.
Boxing coach Nieva believes team-building activities could make a big difference
Boxing coach Nieva believes team-building activities could make a big difference
Arjun Tendulkar: A big claim was made about Arjun Tendulkar, in which it was said that in just 6 months, Arjun will be made the greatest batsman in the world.Arjun TendulkarArjun Tendulkar, son of former Indian cricket legend Sachin Tendulkar, who is known as the God of Cricket, will be seen w...
Gurindervirwins 60m gold in national record time
Virat Kohli Serves IPL 2026 Rivals Major Warning, Slams 19-Ball 45 In RCB Intra-Squad Match. Watch
Royal Challengers Bengaluru (RCB) mentor and batting coach Dinesh Karthik hailed Virat Kohli after the batter scored a 19-ball 45 in the team's second intra-squad practice game ahead of the Indian Premier League (IPL) 2026
Rs 1 Lakh For MI vs RCB IPL 2026 Ticket: Report Claims Massive Issue For Fans
The IPL 2026 starts in three days. Despite most of the league being played in the peak Indian summer, there is no dearth of excitement among fans, with most stadiums seeing packed stands
Gurindervir wins 60m gold at National Indoor C'ships with new record
Gurindervir Singh won 60m gold at the National Indoor Championships with a record 6.60s, after favourite Animesh Kujur was disqualified following multiple false starts. Gurindervir said he wanted tougher competition but stayed focused. He reflected on past struggles and a fresh mindset. Elsewhere, G Reegan won pole vault, while several athletes impressed across events.
'Cricket is my passion. No one can take this away from me': Prithvi Shaw
Prithvi Shaw opens up on his year-long reset after missing IPL 2025, calling it a much-needed mental break. The Delhi Capitals opener reflects on inconsistent form, handling criticism, and lessons from setbacks, including his Mumbai exit. Back with a clearer mindset, Shaw emphasises quality practice, staying at present, and his unwavering ambition to return to the Indian team.
A majority of IPL captains on Wednesday expressed their reservations about the Impact Player rule that has divided opinions since its introduction in 2023
Prithvi Shaw: 'I needed a break to make myself mentally strong'
Back with Delhi Capitals after going unsold at the IPL 2025 auction, Shaw will compete with Nissanka and Porel to open alongside Rahul
After Engagement, Prithvi Shaw Works '200%' Harder For India Comeback Ahead Of IPL 2026
The 26-year-old got Prithvi Shaw recently got engaged to his long-time girlfriend Akriti Agarwal. It was a personal milestone which, in many ways, could redefine the trajectory of his cricketing journey.
IPL 2026 | Ive made mistakes, but thats history: Prithvi Shaw
Navdeep Saini replaces Harshit Rana at KKR; Kulwant Khejroliya in for Prithvi Raj Yarra at GT
If I have to give this opportunity another name, I will call it revival, says Saini, who last played an IPL match in 2023
No clash of dates between Commonwealth TTC and UTT
Multiple officials, requesting anonymity, confirmed that the seventh edition of UTT will be held in Goa from July 9 to 26. The 22nd edition of the CTTC will then begin in New Delhi on July 27, with the finals scheduled for August 2
Cummins on his IPL return: 'If nothing goes wrong, I will play the back half plus the finals'
He has arrived in India and did light sprints at warm-ups at the Chinnaswamy on Wednesday, before bowling casually into an empty net
Mumbai Indians will aim to be consistent in IPL 2026 and clinch a record sixth title.
Selecting the Selector proves tricky as ECB find options thin on the ground
Rob Key begins hunt for Luke Wright's successor, but challenges abound over role's remit
Khawaja replaces Laurie Evans for Rawalpindi Pindiz
Meanwhile, Chris Green replaces Max Bryant at Islamabad United
Karnataka Dominate On Day One Of Khelo India Tribal Games
Powerhouse Karnataka showcased its supremacy in the pool, winning five of the six gold medals on offer, with Dhoneesh N making a splash in the men's 200m freestyle on the opening day of the inaugural Khelo India Tribal Games.
Kolkata Knight Riders and Gujarat Titans have secured replacements for injured players ahead of the Indian Premier League 2026 season. Navdeep Saini joins KKR for Harshit Rana, while Kulwant Khejroliya is now with GT for Prithviraj Yarra. These moves aim to maintain squad balance and strengthen bowling attacks for the upcoming tournament.
Jannik Sinner scripts history, breaks Djokovic's 10-year-old record
Jannik Sinner reached the Miami Open quarter-finals after beating Alex Michelsen and setting a record of 28 consecutive Masters 1000 sets, surpassing Novak Djokovic. Despite a tough fight, he won in straight sets. Sinner stays on track for the Sunshine Double. Elsewhere, Frances Tiafoe advanced, while Martin Landaluce impressed with an emotional upset win.
Disgusted With Abhishek Sharma, Guy Walks Around Doing Reels: India Opener Blasted By Yograj Singh
Though Abhishek Sharma slammed a fiery 21-ball 52 in the final of the T20 World Cup 2026, former India player Yograj Singh is not happy with the opene
KKR name this Indian pacer as Harshit Rana's replacement for IPL 2026
Rana, who sustained a ligament strain in his right knee injury during India's T20 World Cup warm-up match against South Africa, is currently undergoing rehabilitation.
IPL 2026: 5 Mumbai Indians players to watch out for this season
As IPL 2026 approaches, the Mumbai Indians are poised for a title challenge with a squad brimming with match-winners. Key players like Jasprit Bumrah and Hardik Pandya are expected to lead the charge, while Rohit Sharma's experience and the emergence of Naman Dhir and Will Jacks offer dynamic threats. Their collective form will be crucial for Mumbai's championship aspirations.
'Playoffs isn't enough': LSG owner lays down marker for Pant to earn 'respect'
Goenka said the franchise is still shaping its identity and that success in the league is measured by trophies rather than consistency alone.
India women's cricket team captain Harmanpreet Kaur on Wednesday said last year's ODI World Cup crown at home gave the side much-needed confidence and self belief to win more titles.
IPL 2026 ticket prices: Check venue-wise booking details for this years Indian Premier League
IPL 2026 Tickets: The IPL 2026 season kicks off on March 28th, with tickets for popular franchises like Mumbai Indians and Chennai Super Kings expected to sell out rapidly. Fans can purchase tickets through various platforms including BookMyShow, District by Zomato, and official team websites, with prices varying by team and seating category.
Clearly Not Good Enough: Owner Sanjiv Goenka's Honest Take On LSG's IPL Performance
With a renewed squad and clear lessons from the past, LSG owner Sanjiv Goenka has outlined the franchise's evolution heading into IPL 2026.
Bhatia, Molinari the top draw as Indian Open tees off
England cricket explodes: ECB hits back at batter's 'no one cares' claim
Livingstone, who has not played international cricket since Englands winless campaign in the ICC Champions Trophy under former captain Jos Buttler, had told ESPNCricinfo that the management, including Key and head coach Brendon McCullum, did not show enough concern for players once they were dropped.
A bet, a bat, and a breakout: The making of Esterhuizen's dream debut series
Backed by his captain Maharaj, the 24-year old anchored SA's turnaround and emerged as the defining batter of the series
MS Dhoni Slams CSK Pacer For Six During Training. Internet Trolls Bowler - Watch
MS Dhoni will play at least one more Indian Premier League season for CSK. He has turned 44 but continues to provide his services to the five-time champions.
Shubman Gill's Banter Targetting Ashish Nehra For Blasting Teammates Over Dropped Catches
After missing the T20 World Cup, Shubman Gill will have a point to prove in IPL 2026, starting March 28. The Gujarat Titans captain has emphasised clarity and composure in leadership as the team prepares for the Indian Premier League (IPL) 2026
RCB, MI, or CSK? England's cricket legends predict IPL 2026 winners
Former England stars are split on IPL 2026 predictions. Michael Vaughan backs Mumbai Indians, calling them the clear winners. Alastair Cook supports defending champions RCB, while Phil Tufnell also considers CSK a strong contender. Led by Hardik Pandya, MI look strong, but RCB face early setbacks. Historically, only MI and CSK have successfully defended IPL titles.
How Does Imran Khan Spend Time In Prison? Cricket Great's Sons Reveal
Imran Khan, Pakistan's former Prime Minister and World Cup-winning captain, has been in jail since 2023
Indian archers claim two bronze, reach four finals in Asia Cup Stage 1
TheIndianrecurve mens team and compound womens team reached their respective finals
Royal Champ and Invincible Force catch the eye
Jasprit Bumrah is understood to have continued bowling during his time at the facility and is expected to link up with his IPL franchise Mumbai Indians, claimed a report.
Esterhuizen's blitzkrieg helps South Africa secure series in New Zealand
South Africa beat New Zealand by 33 runs in the final T20 to win the series 3-2, powered by Connor Esterhuizens 75 off 33 balls. After a slow start, South Africa posted 187. New Zealand struggled in the chase, finishing 154-8. Tight bowling from Gerald Coetzee and Ottneil Baartman, along with regular wickets, kept the hosts under pressure throughout.
Connor Esterhuizen Blasts South Africa To T20I Series Win Against New Zealand
Connor Esterhuizen blasted a career-best 75 from 33 balls to propel South Africa to a 33-run win over New Zealand in the fifth Twenty20 on Wednesday and a 3-2 win in the five-match series.
IPL 2026: Kolkata Knight Riders | Full list of players, schedule and support staff
Kolkata Knight Riders has won the IPL in 2012, 2014 and 2024.
From Truck Driver's Sacrifice To Rs 5.2 Crore Glory: Mangesh Yadav's Inspiring Rise To RCB
Before Mangesh Yadav ever pitched a ball in professional cricket, his father Ramavadh Yadav worked overnight, contemplating how he would secure funds for his son's dream.
Irfan Pathan Points Out One Thing Arshdeep Singh Needs To Focus On During IPL 2026
After winning the T20 World Cup 2026 trophy, Indian seamer Arshdeep Singh is aiming to win an IPL title with the Punjab Kings.
Arjun Tendulkar has moved to the Lucknow Super Giants ahead of IPL 2026 after spending three seasons with the Mumbai Indians
War-hit schedule sees Iran's Tractor travel to Saudi for ACL quarterfinal berth
Irans Tractor FC will travel to Saudi Arabia to face Shabab Al Ahli in a playoff. The winner will move into the quarterfinals of the Asian Champions League Elite, where they will meet Buriram United.
'Talking bulls**t' about Arjun Tendulkar': Yuvraj's father blasts Ashwin
R Ashwins claim that Arjun Tendulkar wont feature for Lucknow Super Giants in IPL 2026 due to strong competition has sparked controversy. Yograj Singh hit back sharply, calling his remarks bulls**t and questioning his authority. He defended Arjuns potential, highlighting past issues and boldly claiming he could transform him into a top batter within six months.
Is Arshdeep losing his swing? Irfan Pathan flags concern for Punjab's pacer
Former Indian all-rounder Irfan Pathan has urged Arshdeep Singh to focus on his new-ball swing, noting a decline in this area over the past year. Despite Arshdeep's success as India's leading T20 World Cup wicket-taker and a consistent performer for Punjab Kings, Pathan believes improving new-ball bowling and economy rate is crucial for his future.
'Batting Isn't Enough': Ex-India Star Flags Major Weakness in Sunrisers Hyderabad Squad
With regular captain Pat Cummins set to miss the first few games due to an injury, Ishan Kishan will step in as the stand-in skipper.
Manifestation: SRH Skipper Ishan Kishan On India Comeback, Franchise's Leadership
Ishan said that one is calm and composed and aware of things that are happening, then they are going to do well for their team no matter what.
Esterhuizen, bowlers lead South Africa to 3-2 series win
Esterhuizen hit his second consecutive fifty before South Africa's bowlers ensured New Zealand never threatened in the chase
'When I was not in team ... ': How Ishan backed himself to turn things around
Fresh off a T20 World Cup triumph and two Player of the Match awards, Ishan Kishan is embracing his new role as captain of Sunrisers Hyderabad for IPL 2026. He aims to keep things simple, focusing on players' mindset and staying in the present to guide SRH through the season.
RCB sold for record 16,660 crore; now owned by Aditya Birla Group and others
The acquiring consortium includes Aditya Birla Group, Times of India Group, Bolt Ventures, and Blackstone. Following regulatory approvals from the Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI) and the Competition Commission of India, the consortium will take over operations of both the IPL and WPL teams.
'Finally': Dutch No. 1 Anish Giri jabs FIDE over unusual Cyprus safety post
Concerns over safety and infrastructure in Cyprus ahead of the Candidates have unsettled players, with Koneru Humpy withdrawing and Hikaru Nakamura questioning power reliability. Anish Giri mocked FIDEs delayed response. FIDE has now issued a FAQ, insisting Cyprus is safe, outages are rare, and backup systems and contingency plans are in place to ensure smooth conduct.
Bangladesh's New Selection Committee Chief Habibul Bashar Wants Long-Term Return Of Shakib Al Hasan
The BCB's newly-appointed chairman of selectors Habibul Bashar says he wants Shakib Al Hasan to return to the country and play for at least two more years.
Nepal-Born Defender Abneet Bharati Joins India Camp Ahead Of Asian Cup Qualifier vs Hong Kong
Nepal-born defender Abneet Bharti has joined the Indian senior men's team camp in Kochi ahead of the AFC Asian Cup qualifier against Hong Kong, the AIFF said on Wednesday.
Floored By IPL Memes, Ananya Birla Shares Fan Posts On Her Meet With Shubman Gill
Ananya Birla met Gujarat Titans captain Shubman Gill at an IPL 2026 promotional event where the Gujarat Titans captain gifted her a signed jersey.
Barred by interim govt, BCB now wants Hasina-linked cricketer back for 'long term'
Shakib, 39, had moved to the United States after the country's Awami League government led by Sheikh Hasina was removed following a student uprising in 2024. The interim government had barred Shakib from representing Bangladesh.
'Pant a prisoner of his own reputation: Ex-India cricketer flags concerns
Rishabh Pant's IPL 2025 campaign saw him struggle with form, averaging 24.45. Former opener Aakash Chopra believes Pant's risky batting approach, which even former coach Rahul Dravid questioned, has led to criticism and a loss of national team spot. Pant's decision to seek guidance from Yuvraj Singh is seen as a positive step towards improving his white-ball game.
Rajasthan Royals IPL Stats: Rajasthan Royals, the inaugural IPL champions in 2008, have consistently been a competitive force. After a runner-up finish in 2022 and a third-place in 2024, the team faced a challenging 2025 season, ending in ninth place. For IPL 2026, Riyan Parag will captain the side, with significant squad changes and new additions.
England Cricket Director Hits Back After Liam Livingstone's Allegation, Reveals 'Tetchy' Phone Call
England men's cricket director Rob Key has responded to recent criticism from all-rounder Liam Livingstone.
EXCLUSIVE | Cooper Connolly looks to learn, grow, and emulate Shaun Marsh at Punjab Kings
Perth-born Cooper Connolly, who has modelled his batting on Shaun Marsh, a former star for Punjab Kings (then Kings XI Punjab), is set to turn up for the Mohali-based franchise as he looks to emulate his idol. The 22-year-old was bought by Punjab Kings for Rs 3 crore during last years IPL mini auction.
Ashwin terms Gill 'bit like a don', but advised against 'chasing strike-rate'
Ravichandran Ashwin described Shubman Gill as a don who will be eally hungry to return to the Indian T20I side this season. Ashwin urged Gill to focus on scoring runs normally rather than chasing a high strike rate, believing his natural game will lead to success and potentially another Orange Cap.
Scrutiny Around Rishabh Pant Is Justified: Ex-India Star's Blunt Verdict On LSG Captain
Thr former Indian opener believes that India's wicketkeeper-batter and Lucknow Super Giants (LSG) captain Rishabh Pant is a prisoner of his own reputation.
Marcus Stoinis, Cooper Connolly Join PBKS Squad In Mohali Ahead Of IPL 2026
Punjab Kings have received a timely boost ahead of the Indian Premier League 2026, with Australian duo Marcus Stoinis and Cooper Connolly joining the squad in Mohali.
Indian Archers Claim Two Bronze, Reach Two Finals In Asia Cup Stage 1
Indian archers bagged two bronze medals and also stormed into the finals of the men's recurve and women's compound team events on the second day of the Asia Cup World Ranking Tournament Stage 1.
Pant should bat at No. 3: Faf du Plessis
New Delhi: Former South Africa captain Faf du Plessis feels Rishabh Pant should bat at No. 3 position to maximise his impact, and also urged the hard-hitting wicketkeeper-batter to control his high-risk approach and aim for consistency in the upcoming IPL. Pant shuffled his batting position from being No. 4 to opener and also lower Get the latest updates in Hyderabad City News , Technology , Entertainment , Sports , Politics and Top Stories on WhatsApp & Telegram by subscribing to our channels. You can also download our app for Android and iOS .
Kohli vs Tendulkar: Ganguly's 'Sachin' remark goes viral - WATCH
Former India captain Sourav Ganguly addressed the enduring debate between Sachin Tendulkar and Virat Kohli. Ganguly emphasized that both players are exceptional and have significantly contributed to India's victories. He highlighted the difficulty of achieving their records and stated that playing alongside great players like Tendulkar improved his own game, making a direct comparison between the two unnecessary.
IPL 2026: Aussie cricketers Marcus Stoinis, Cooper Connolly join Punjab Kings
IPL 2026: Australian players Marcus Stoinis and Cooper Connolly have arrived in Mohali. They join the Punjab Kings squad for the upcoming 2026 Indian Premier League season. Preparations are in their final stages. The team is preparing for their opening match. This match is against Gujarat Giants on March 31. Their arrival boosts the team's lineup.
You Feel He Can Get Out Any Time: Faf Du Plessis On This India Star In IPL
This IPL season will be a make-or-break one for Pant, who was catapulted to stardom in the late 2010s through this league and his sensational 360-degree hitting.
Dhoni hits Mukesh for a six; internet trolls with 'Isko koi bhi maar de'
Veteran MS Dhoni, at 44, gears up for his 19th IPL season, showcasing his enduring finishing prowess in a recent net session. Despite trolling for the bowler, Dhoni's continued impact is evident. CSK, under Ruturaj Gaikwad, faces challenges with Nathan Ellis's injury but has bolstered their squad with Sanju Samson, signaling a future-focused approach.
IPL Started In 2008 But Lalit Modi Pitched Idea To BCCI 10 Years Before. Here's What Happened
The Indian Premier League started in the year 2008, and it completely changed how T20 cricket was seen across the globe.
Illegal Fantasy Apps Surge With IPL's Commencement
ED to crack down on shadow industry operating in the dark worth thousands of crores.
NZ vs SA Live: Ottneil Baartman gets rid of Dane Cleaver
Mumbai Indians enters the 2026 IPL season with over 30 brand partnerships. Sponsorship revenue has grown 20 percent year-on-year. The franchise added ten new partners, including Malaysia Airlines. This expansion highlights Mumbai Indians' growing appeal across aviation, technology, and lifestyle sectors. The team is also focusing on direct-to-consumer initiatives and fan engagement platforms.
IPL 2026: Rishabh Pant should bat at No. 3, says Faf du Plessis
Faf du Plessis believes Rishabh Pant should bat at number three for Lucknow Super Giants. He feels this position will maximize Pant's impact. Du Plessis also advised Pant to temper his aggressive style. The aim is to achieve greater consistency in his performances throughout the upcoming IPL season.
Rinku Singh appointed RSO: Salary, role explained
Rinku Singh received a dual honor, being appointed vice-captain of KKR for IPL 2026 and then appointed as a Regional Sports Officer by the Uttar Pradesh Government. CM Yogi Adityanath presented him with the appointment letter, highlighting UP's commitment to prioritizing athletes in government service. This new role will see Rinku shaping the future of sports in Uttar Pradesh.
RCB Sale: Why Record-Breaking IPL Deal Fell Short Of 2 Billion Dollars Mark
A consortium led by the Aditya Birla Group has acquired a 100 percent stake in the Indian Premier League (IPL) franchise Royal Challengers Bengaluru for 1.78 billion dollars (approximately Rs 16,660 crore).
New Zealand bowl, both teams unchanged for decider
The series is locked in at 2-2 after South Africa won games one and four, and New Zealand won games two and three
Syed Mushtaq Ali Trophy: When Yash Thakur talks about bowling in the death overs in T20s, he does not talk about variations first - he speaks about the clarity in mind and plans before turning his attention to execution. The clarity in his words mirrors Thakurs reputation as an end-overs specialist in IPL - 13 of his 25 wickets have come in the crunch 1720 overs phase. I feel that death overs are the most challenging. So I always try to do my best for the team in the most challenging situations. My mindset is always the same. That's why I prefer bowling in death overs. For death overs, your mind and plans should be clear. Then your execution comes in the end. These three things I feel are the most important in bowling in death overs. If it is there, you can click it well. Sometimes it won't happen, but this is a process. The more it goes on, the better it will be, said Thakur in an exclusive conversation with IANS ahead of IPL 2026 starting on March 28. It is this simple framework of clarity and execution that has helped Thakur excel since having impactful 2023 and 2024 seasons with Lucknow Super Giants. Though he got only two games with PBKS in the 2025 season, Thakurs numbers in recent domestic cricket season suggest he can get a longer run: 18 wickets in seven matches at an economy rate of 6.8 in the Syed Mushtaq Ali Trophy. He had the third-best economy rate amongst pacers who bowled at least 25 overs in the domestic T20 competition. It was followed by 19 scalps in nine games in Vidarbha winning the Vijay Hazare Trophy. Thakur knows what those numbers mean for his IPL 2026 ambitions, especially with PBKS looking to complete an unfinished business after falling six runs short of winning the title. I am ready from day one to play matches. Our tactical call and more so, team call will always be on top. Whatever role I am given, I will try to do my best for the team, which is more important. Punjab Kings as a team has only one goal that we have to win the final match and win the trophy for the team. The trophy that was left last year should be in our dressing room this time, he said. The death overs specialism that has now become a part of Thakurs identity traces back to 2018/19, when he turned out for India U19 team. This process started long ago. It started from under 19 days in 2018/19, when I was playing for India - that's when it started that I had to be a death overs bowler. Its because if I wanted to play for India, the better I would do in death overs, the better my chances of playing for the country would become. So, all of this is one step at a time. Actually, when I played T20 for the first time in Syed Mushtaq Ali Trophy, I didn't have much idea. I just played in the tournament, but I got to learn that in death overs, there is always a challenge the batters come hard on you and from then I started this. In Syed Mushtaq Ali (Trophy), I thought I will excel more in death overs and achieve mastery in it. Then slowly I came to IPL and right now, the thing is, the more I am clear in death overs and better I perform there - it stays in my mind, he explained. Before joining PBKS camp, Thakur spent time at the NCA club in Nagpur for a focused block of preparation. For one or two days, he would practice bowling yorkers only by keeping his shoes on the blockhole and try to consistently hit it. The same plan would be in place for honing his wide yorkers and slower balls, apart from spending 1.5 to 2 hours on batting practice. As per my bowling plan, I work there on my thinking, execution, the specific deliveries I have to work on so I prepare for IPL and that makes me feel that I am not unprepared. So I get a good stage to prepare there. The same goes for batting - I think about the deliveries that I have to prepare against, the shots that can work well. So I practice there for 6-7 days and then I come to the IPL with a feeling that I am prepared. That preparation feeds directly into his death overs approach on match days, where instinct and planning for specific batters coexists under significant pressure. In death overs, execution is most important. Whether your plan is getting executed or not. Second thing is planning - what have you planned for specific batters and wickets? These two things are most important. The plans are mostly batter specific. You have to see who is batting and what are their strengths and weaknesses, irrespective of the ground conditions and wickets. Keeping both these things in mind, you have to plan the best balls which can work and give you wickets and save runs. That is the process which is there in that phase, he stated. Spending time in the India A camp for series against Australia A, South Africa A and Rising Stars Asia Cup has also been a huge boon for Thakur. It is a step closer to India and the experience was such that it felt like international cricket for me. It was a good experience personally for my skills and development and how I can excel more in that. I learnt a lot of things about how I have to keep my temperament and patience. Pressure increases a lot when you represent a country, but when you are calm and composed, you get to learn and experience a lot. The adaption of his bowling plans as per different formats has further sharpened Thakurs adaptability skills. As a professional cricketer, this is a part of your life that your format will change, so as the time to play, but you have to adapt very quickly because the game has become so fast. You are playing T20 today, then after a week you have to play Test cricket and later one-day cricket. So the time and format will change, but your adaptability should be very fast as per the pace of the modern-day game. For every player and professional cricketer, it has become mandatory that your adaptability should be good. What makes this PBKS side different since 2025, as per Thakur, is a cultural shift that captain Shreyas Iyer and head coach Ricky Ponting have brought since joining the side. When Shreyas bhai joined the team last year, he changed the environment. Shreyas bhai and Ricky sir changed the environment of the team and made it a positive, fun-loving team. Everyone cares for each other and will think about each other. Our team building started from there - from day one last year till the final. All the players who were not playing had a thought that how can I do my best for my team? Even if I am not playing, how can I do my best from here? Everyone has the same mindset this year, as we had last year. As a team, we have to move forward, play for each other and make the team win. Guided by calmness, clarity in plans and the disciplined execution he has honed since his teens, Thakur shapes up as a compelling option to be in the PBKS playing eleven. In a competition where control in the death overs can tilt the balance, his presence could prove to be decisive in IPL 2026. Our team building started from there - from day one last year till the final. All the players who were not playing had a thought that how can I do my best for my team? Even if I am not playing, how can I do my best from here? Everyone has the same mindset this year, as we had last year. As a team, we have to move forward, play for each other and make the team win. Also Read: Live Cricket Score As soon as any situation comes, the more calm and positive you are, the better you will be able to execute. So I saw this in the domestic games and now I want to do the same thing in the IPL, signed off Thakur. Article Source: IANS
287 and beyond: The night Sunrisers Hyderabad smashed an IPL record in a run-fest for the ages
Sunrisers Hyderabad achieved a record-breaking 287/3 in the 2024 IPL. This total shattered previous benchmarks for T20 cricket. Batters Travis Head, Abhishek Sharma, and Heinrich Klaasen displayed relentless aggression. The innings demonstrated a significant evolution in T20 batting strategies. Teams are now reassessing scoring potential and pushing boundaries.
South Africa make 102 vs Kerr's 105 as New Zealand take series 4-1
Kerr returned figures of 2 for 6 to go with her century in a perfect all-round display that floored the visitors
