RCB Becomes Costliest IPL Franchise, Sold For Over Rs 16,000 Crore: Sources
A consortium led by Aditya Birla Group completed the acquisition of Indian Premier League (IPL) franchise Royal Challengers Bengaluru for more than Rs 16,000 crore.
After finishing as the runners-up in 2025, Punjab Kings are set to begin their IPL 2026 campaign on March 31 against Gujarat Titans in New Chandigarh.
Consortium led by ABG and The Times of India Group acquires RCB for $1.8 billion
Royal Challengers Bangalore has been acquired for a staggering $1.8 billion by a consortium including Aditya Birla Group and The Times of India Group. This deal, alongside Rajasthan Royals' $1.6 billion valuation, highlights the booming T20 cricket franchise market. Global investors are increasingly drawn to the IPL's immense fan engagement and growing media rights value.
Aditya Birla Group, TOI Group, Bolt Ventures & Blackstone acquire RCB for $1.78 billion
A consortium including Aditya Birla Group, Times of India, Bolt Ventures, and Blackstone has acquired Royal Challengers Bengaluru (RCB) for $1.78 billion. This landmark deal encompasses both the men's and women's IPL and WPL franchises from United Spirits. Aryaman Vikram Birla will chair the team, with Satyan Gajwani as vice-chairman, following the 2026 IPL season.
'I have an interest': Ganguly breaks silence on coaching future
Former Team India captain Sourav Ganguly says he remains deeply involved in cricket and is open to coaching in the future after his stint with Pretoria Capitals. He stressed his passion for the game and willingness to explore opportunities. Ganguly backed Test cricket as the toughest format, said the IPL Impact Player rule will stay, praised IPLs growth, and highlighted young talents like Auqib Nabi.
It Hurts': Sourav Ganguly Slams IPL Uncertainty Over Rs 11.75 Crore Overseas Pacer
Sourav Ganguly did not mince words when asked for his reaction on the uncertainty surrounding Mitchell Starc's availability for the start of IPL 2026.
KKR Name New Vice-Captain Ahead Of IPL 2026, Franchise Signals Future Leadership Shift
Three-time champions Kolkata Knight Riders on Tuesday appointed explosive batter Rinku Singh as their vice-captain for IPL 2026.
RCB Players To Wear '11' Jersey In Tribute To Fans Lost In Chinnaswamy Tragedy
Ahead of the upcoming IPL matches at M. Chinnaswamy Stadium, Royal Challengers Bengaluru (RCB) has announced a series of enhanced security measures, operational changes, and heartfelt tributes, following last year's tragic stampede incident which claimed eleven lives in the stampede.
Duckett pulls out of IPL 2026 to focus on Test revival
Duckett has never previously played in the IPL and was signed for INR 2 crore by Delhi Capitals
CSK bring in Australian pacer as replacement for injured Ellis
Chennai Super Kings (CSK) have signed Spencer Johnson as a replacement for injured pacer Nathan Ellis ahead of IPL 2026. Ellis, ruled out with a hamstring injury, was expected to lead the attack, making his absence a big setback. Johnson, with international and IPL experience, joins for Rs 1.5 crore as CSK look to fill the gap and stay competitive.
'God's plan': KKR name Rinku Singh as vice-captain ahead of IPL 2026
India name squads for Thomas, Uber Cup; Sen, Sindhu set to headline
India have named balanced squads for the Thomas and Uber Cup in Denmark, blending experience with young talent. Lakshya Sen leads the mens team, which retains its 2022-winning core, while PV Sindhu and Unnati Hooda headline the womens side. New and returning players add depth. Selections were based on rankings and team needs, with officials confident the mix can deliver strong results.
Bhatia hopes to overcome a tough course on his maiden visit to India
Bhatia hopes to overcome a tough course on his maiden visit to India
IPL 2026: Spencer Johnson replaces injured Nathan Ellis at CSK
Johnson however hasn't played top-flight cricket since the IPL last year, when he suffered a back injury
Cherie Chevalier obliges in Telangana Plate
RCBs big changes ahead of IPL: New rules, tribute & squad update
RCBs big changes ahead of IPL: New rules, tribute & squad update
Dayal wont be part of RCB in IPL 2026: Bobat
IPL 2026: CSK sign Spencer Johnson for Rs 1.5 crore to replace Nathan Ellis
Chennai Super Kings have signed Australian pacer Spencer Johnson. He replaces injured teammate Nathan Ellis for the 2026 Indian Premier League season. Johnson joins for 1.5 crore. He brings international experience, having played for Australia. Johnson has prior IPL experience with Gujarat Titans and Kolkata Knight Riders. CSK aims to strengthen their pace attack with this signing.
Who is Ryan Williams? Australia-born footballer likely to play for India
The Australian-born forward was included after FIFA approved his change of association, allowing him to represent India at the senior level. He had earlier been part of the preparatory camp for the Bangladesh qualifier but could not make the squad due to pending paperwork.
KKRs captaincy call: Ajinkya Rahanes redemption vs Venkatesh Iyers price-tag fall
Kolkata Knight Riders' auction strategies reveal a shift in focus. Venkatesh Iyer's journey from high price to release and back shows changing valuations. Ajinkya Rahane emerged as a consistent performer and captain. The franchise now prioritizes proven reliability over potential for IPL 2026. This recalibration shapes KKR's future plans.
IPL: When will Somani-led consortium's RR buy come into effect?
The champions of the inaugural edition of the Indian Premier League (IPL), Rajasthan Royals have been acquired for $1.63 billion by a Kal Somani-led consortium ahead of IPL 2026, though ownership will transfer after the season. Backed by major investors like Rob Walton and Sheila Ford Hamp, the deal highlights IPLs rising global value. Somani
Punjab Kings: Shreyas Iyer to Marco Jansen; Five players who could shape their IPL 2026 campaign
Punjab Kings' IPL season success depends on key players. Shreyas Iyer leads with batting and captaincy. Arshdeep Singh provides crucial pace bowling. Yuzvendra Chahal offers spin expertise. Marcus Stoinis brings all-round balance. Marco Jansen adds bowling variety and batting depth. This core group forms the team's foundation for a strong tournament run.
Justin Langer backs Rishabh Pant to excel in second year as Lucknow Super Giants skipper
Lucknow Super Giants coach Justin Langer sees a happier Rishabh Pant ready for IPL 2026. Langer believes Pant's best cricket comes with a smile. The team aims for a stronger performance this season. LSG has strengthened its squad through the auction. Experienced players like Mohammed Shami will guide younger bowlers.
Spark Of Life, Darrington, Sai Princess, Jade Mountain and Garzian excel
Delhi Capitals (DC), a long-standing IPL team, has a history of strong squads but no title. They reached semi-finals early on, faced a slump, and then rebranded. A resurgence saw them reach their first final in 2020. Despite recent playoff appearances, championship success remains elusive for the franchise.
Rajasthan Royals Sold For More Than Rs 15,000 Crore, Set To Become Costliest IPL Franchise
Rajasthan Royals became the costliest IPL team as they were bought by a consortium led by US-based entrepreneur Kal Somani for more than Rs 15,000 crore ahead of IPL 2026.
Why such a big craze?: Ex-IPL star baffled by Pant's Rs 27.5cr price tag
Rishabh Pants poor IPL season and record Rs 27.50 crore price tag have drawn criticism after LSG missed the playoffs. Faf du Plessis questioned his lack of a clear T20 game plan and consistency, saying Pant has too many options and plays on the edge. He also doubted the hype around Pant, citing his modest T20 numbers and underwhelming performances.
A consortium head by US-based entrepreneur Kal Somani acquired IPL franchise Rajasthan Royals for a record-breaking amount of 1.63 billions dollars (more than Rs 15,000 crore).
Mbapp says his left knee injury is all gone as France ramps up for the World Cup
Key: 'No way Livingstone is not up for selection'
Managing director lifts the lid on fairly tetchy call with allrounder, who remains in England's plans
Royal Challengers Bengaluru faces challenges for IPL 2026. Fast bowler Yash Dayal will not join the squad due to a personal situation. Pacer Josh Hazlewood will also miss initial matches recovering from injuries. The franchise is supporting Dayal and in contact with Cricket Australia regarding Hazlewood's fitness. Both players were key to RCB's title win.
Who is Kal Somani? The US entrepreneur leading USD 1.63bn RR buy
Ahead of IPL 2026, Rajasthan Royals have been acquired for $1.63 billion by a consortium led by US entrepreneur Kal Somani, making it a landmark deal. Somani, a tech entrepreneur, is backed by major global investors like Rob Walton and Sheila Ford Hamp. The move highlights growing IPL value, with Somani expressing strong belief in the leagues future potential.
Will the ghost of Lalit Modi finally fade away after Rajasthan Royals sale?
The sale of Rajasthan Royals marks a potential turning point for the franchise, long associated with controversy and speculation around Lalit Modi. While the former IPL commissioner has denied any links, rumours persisted for years. With a new ownership group led by Kal Somani, the Royals now have a chance to move past their turbulent past and redefine their identity.
IPL 2026: Tech entrepreneur Kal Somani-led group wins $1.63 billion Rajasthan Royals bid
A US-led consortium has secured the Rajasthan Royals IPL franchise. Entrepreneur Kal Somani heads the group that bid $1.63 billion. This marks a significant ownership change for the popular team. Prominent US investors, including members of the Walton and Hamp families, are backing the deal. The acquisition highlights the growing value of IPL teams.
IPL 2026: Delhi Capitals | Full list of players, schedule and support staff
With six playoff appearances, DCs journey has been a rollercoaster packed with fire, flair and heart-stopping near-misses, but the big prize remains just out of reach.
Conrad: Whether it is fully-fledged international cricket, I think the jury is out
South Africa coach admits a series with understrength teams isn't ideal but highlighted the opportunities it has given fringe players
RCB players to wear jersey No. 11 to honour Bengaluru stampede victims
RCB will wear black armbands and establish 11 permanent seats at M. Chinnaswamy Stadium to honour fans who died in the tragic stampede
'Bad move': Cyprus chess chief hits back at Humpy post Candidates pull-out
Koneru Humpy withdrew from the 2026 Womens Candidates in Cyprus, citing safety concerns despite assurances. Her decision drew sharp criticism from Cyprus Chess Federation president Criton Tornaritis, who called her claims simply incorrect. The tournament is a key path to the world title. Anna Muzychuk may replace Humpy, while India will still have two players competing.
SRH rope in Englands David Payne as Jack Edwards replacement
Hyderabad: Sunrisers Hyderabad (SRH) have brought in England cricketer David Payne as an injury replacement for Australian Jack Edwards ahead of the Indian Premier League (IPL) 2026, with Kolkata Knight Riders (KKR) also confirming a replacement signing of their own. Payne, who has played just one ODI for England but boasts an extensive T20 record 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 .
Kal Somani-led consortium buys Rajasthan Royals for $1.63 billion
US entrepreneur Kal Somani, backed by the Walton and Hamp families, has secured ownership of the Rajasthan Royals franchise for $1.63 billion. This significant acquisition marks a new chapter for the IPL team.
To Honour Stampede Victims, RCB Players To Wear Jersey No. 11 for Practice
The players will be wearing jersey No.11 for the practice on the game day -- the practice time before the match: RCB CEO Rajesh Menon
RCB dedicates 11 permanent stadium seats to honour stampede victims, players wear No.11 for practice
Royal Challengers Bengaluru will honor fans lost in a tragic stampede. Players will wear jersey number 11 during practice sessions. The franchise will also dedicate 11 permanent seats at the Chinnaswamy Stadium. These gestures mark remembrance for the fans.
Payne replaces Edwards at Sunrisers Hyderabad for IPL 2026
The 35-year-old England left-arm quick has recent success behind him having won this year's ILT20 and the BBL
IPL 2026: KKR, SRH Announce 2 New Replacement Signings
SRH will play the curtain raiser of the tournament against defending champions RCB on March 28, while KKR will face Mumbai Indians at the Wankhede Stadium on March 29.
Smriti Mandhana Retains 2nd spot, Harmanpreet Kaur Rises To 14th In T20I Rankings
Swashbuckling India batter Smriti Mandhana retained her second spot, while skipper Harmanpreet Kaur moved up to 14th in the latest ICC women's T20I rankings for batters released on Tuesday.
Smriti Mandhana holds No.2 spot, Harmanpreet Kaur climbs in latest ICC Womens T20I rankings
Indian cricketers Smriti Mandhana and Harmanpreet Kaur have climbed in the latest ICC Women's T20I rankings. Mandhana holds her second spot while Kaur moves to fourteenth. Shafali Verma remains sixth. Deepti Sharma is now third in bowling and third among all-rounders. Other international players also saw significant movements in the rankings.
Gujarat Titans confident ahead of IPL 2026: 'Were here to win, not participate'
Gujarat Titans confident ahead of IPL 2026: 'Were here to win, not participate'
MS Dhoni Told To Hang Up His Boots Instead Of Playing As Impact Player
44-year-old MS Dhoni might be deployed as an Impact Player by CSK in the IPL 2026 season.
Big blow to RCB, Yash Dayal ruled of IPL 2026 due to personal reasons
Defending champions Royal Challengers Bengaluru will be without fast bowler Yash Dayal for IPL 2026 due to personal reasons. Director of Cricket Mo Bobat confirmed Dayal remains under contract and will receive continued support from the franchise during this challenging period. Dayal was a key bowler for RCB, contributing significantly to their 2024 playoff run and 2025 title win.
'MS Dhoni should retire, he cannot be the Impact Player'
Speculation surrounds MS Dhoni's role and future with Chennai Super Kings for IPL 2026. With fitness concerns and a younger squad, former cricketer Aakash Chopra suggests it might be time for the veteran to retire, paving the way for Ruturaj Gaikwad to lead. Dhoni's impact as a player versus a mentor is debated.
RCB quick Yash Dayal to sit out IPL 2026
Director of cricket Mo Bobat confirmed the seamer was out for the entire season
Bangladesh Clears Stance On Players' PSL Participation Amid Security Concerns
Bangladesh players have received no-objection certificates (NOCs) from their cricket board to participate in the upcoming edition of the Pakistan Super League (PSL).
IPL 2026: Kolkata Knight Riders, Sunrisers Hyderabad Name Replacements For Akash Deep, Jack Edwards
India pacer Akash Deep has been ruled out of the tournament with a lumbar stress injury.
RCB Confirm Rape-Accused Yash Dayal Will Not Play For Franchise In IPL 2026
Royal Challengers Bengaluru (RCB) have confirmed that rape-accused pacer Yash Dayal will not play for the franchise in the IPL 2026 season.
SRH vs RCB match tickets to go live today as IPL 2026 set to begin
Hyderabad: The tickets for the Indian Premier League (IPL) 2026 match between Sunrisers Hyderabad (SRH) and Royal Challengers Bengaluru (RCB), scheduled to be played on March 28, to go live on Tuesday, March 24. The match will be played at the M Chinnaswamy Stadium in Bengaluru. Where to buy ticket? Tickets for all RCB home 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 .
MS Dhoni to AR Rahman: Munbe Vaa is my favourite song
What the CSK legend told the popular music composer at the Roar 26 event at Chepauk
The Indian Premier League showcases incredible T20 batting performances. Chris Gayle's 175 remains a towering record. The 2025 season saw Abhishek Sharma reach third place with 141. Virat Kohli dominates career runs. The 2025 season set new benchmarks for high scores and team totals. IPL batting continues to evolve.
IPL 2026: KKR, SRH pick player replacements, replace Akash Deep and Jack Edwards
Kolkata Knight Riders and Sunrisers Hyderabad have made player changes for the upcoming IPL 2026 season. Saurabh Dubey replaces Akash Deep for KKR. David Payne steps in for Jack Edwards at SRH. These replacements are due to player injuries. The tournament is set to begin soon.
DC playing XI for IPL 2026: Duckett vs Nissanka, who opens with KL Rahul?
Delhi Capitals have heavily revamped their squad for IPL 2026, spending nearly their entire purse to acquire new talent. With a blend of retained experienced players and new signings like Pathum Nissanka and David Miller, DC aims to overcome past underachievements and challenge for their maiden title.
New Bidder Likely To Join RCB Ownership Race? Report Reveals Fresh Twist
Blackstone Inc. has weighed committing $200 million to $300 million through its Blackstone Private Equity Strategies Fund for either of the two Indian Premier League teams currently up for sale - the Rajasthan Royals and the 2025 IPL champion Royal Challengers Bengaluru.
I'm Flabbergasted: Sourav Ganguly Reveals Shock At This Star Not Getting Into India's T20I Team
Former India captain Sourav Ganguly expressed his shock at one particular player not being able to make India's T20I team.
Hardik Pandya made an interesting revelation during a Mumbai Indians (MI) event.
Stokes describes aftermath of England's away Ashes disaster as hardest period of captaincy journey
England skipper Ben Stokes calls the Ashes loss the hardest period of his captaincy. He vows to bring happiness and pride to fans in the upcoming Test summer. Stokes, McCullum, and Key will continue their roles. England faces New Zealand in June. Stokes aims to learn from mistakes and deliver strong performances for supporters.
Last three months have been the hardest period of my captaincy journey: Stokes
Being England captain is the greatest honour a player can be given, and I do not take it for granted, says England Test captain Ben Stokes
Five CSK players to watch out for in IPL 2026: Samson and Gaikwad lead a rebuilt side
Chennai Super Kings begin their IPL 2026 campaign against Rajasthan Royals. The team has undergone a major squad overhaul. Sanju Samson joins CSK in a trade. Ruturaj Gaikwad continues as captain. Noor Ahmad leads the spin attack. Dewald Brevis and Ayush Mhatre are key young players. Nathan Ellis faces a hamstring injury.
MS Dhoni's last IPL season? Aakash Chopra says it's time for him to hang up his boots
Former India cricketer Akash Chopra has sparked debate over MS Dhonis future in the Indian Premier League, saying the veteran should consider retirement if used only as an Impact Player for Chennai Super Kings. Chopra said this could be Dhonis final season, citing fitness concerns and the presence of a successor, while stressing that a limited role signals it may be time to hang up his boots.
Brendon McCullum, Ben Stokes Not Stupid: Australia Greats React As England Duo Avoids Sacking
Ben Stokes and Brendon McCullum avoided being sacked by the ECB despite England's woeful results in Test cricket over the past year or so.
Yuki Bhambri, Michael Venus Lose Tight First Round Contest In Miami Open
India's Yuki Bhambri and his Kiwi partner Michael Venus made a first round exit from the Miami Open following a narrow loss to John-Patrick Smith and Sander Arends in Miami.
Impact Player Rule: Game-changer or all-rounder killer?
Impact Player Rule: Game-changer or all-rounder killer?
Shubman to GT pacers: 'No calm, be fierce like Nehra' in IPL 2026
Gujarat Titans captain Shubman Gill desires his fast bowlers to exhibit the same intensity and aggression as former India pacer Ashish Nehra. Gill wants his pace attack to be fierce, drawing inspiration from Nehra's passionate on-field demeanor. This comes as the team aims to rectify mistakes from last season and contend for the IPL 2026 title.
Chennai Super Kings, IPL 2026 Preview: CSK Predicted Playing XI, Strengths And Weaknesses
Chennai Super Kings (CSK) would be roaring to bounce back and challenge for the title again after finishing 8th in the IPL standings last year.
Gujarat Titans Batting Coach Matthew Hayden Picks This Player As Successor To His Mongoose Bat
GT will be starting off their season against Punjab Kings (PBKS), last year's runners-up, on March 31 at New Chandigarh.
IPL 2026: Gujarat Titans skipper Shubman Gill wants his fast bowlers to be 'fierce' this season
Gujarat Titans captain Shubman Gill said he wants his fast bowlers to stay aggressive like head coach Ashish Nehra, recalling the former pacers intense on-field style. Speaking at a team event in Ahmedabad, Gill stressed the need for fierce bowling as GT prepares for the IPL season, adding the team aims to correct last years mistakes despite a strong campaign.
Don't Want Them To Be Calm: Shubman Gill On Gujarat Titans Pacers Ahead Of IPL 2026
Gujarat Titans (GT) skipper Shubman Gill sent an indirect warning to other Indian Premier League (IPL) franchises.
Anushka Sharma Gets Maiden Call Up For India's T20I Series Against South Africa
Pacer Kashvee Gautam, who has played Test and ODIs for India, has been included in the T20 squad led by Harmanpreet Kaur.
BCCI names India womens T20I squad; Anushka Sharma in team
The Board of Control for Cricket in India has announced the Indian women's squad for the upcoming five-match T20I series against South Africa. Harmanpreet Kaur will captain the team, with Smriti Mandhana as her deputy. The series begins on April 17 in Durban. This selection marks a significant opportunity for players like Anushka Sharma who earned her maiden national call-up.
IPL 2026: Lucknow Super Giants | Full list of players, schedule and full support staff
The Lucknow Super Giants (LSG) are preparing for the crucial 2026 IPL season, starting on March 28, aiming to convert past near-misses into championship success
Rinku Singh Rewarded, Set To Play Key Role In Uttar Pradesh Government
The Uttar Pradesh government has honoured batter Rinku Singh for his contributions to India's title-winning campaign in the T20 World Cup 2026.
WWE Raw, March 23 Results: Oba Femi Beats Brock Lesnar Again, Seth Rollins Arrested
WWE Raw Results, March 23: Seth Rollins was arrested after attacking Paul Heyman on WWE Raw, raising questions about his future.
Dhoni jokes 'I don't like you' to Bravo; Raina trolls with 'Korbo, lorbo, jeetbo'
Chennai Super Kings celebrated their IPL legacy with a special event at Chepauk, bringing together current stars and former legends. A heartwarming moment saw MS Dhoni and Suresh Raina join Dwayne Bravo and Murali Vijay on a video call, sharing laughter and CSK's iconic slogan ahead of IPL 2026.
Judges Sold Their Souls: Imran Khan Slams Pakistan Judiciary For 'Inhumane Treatment' Of His Wife
Imran Khan has accused Pakistan's judiciary of 'inhumane treatment' of his wife in order to blackmail him.
Los Angeles 2028 Olympics unveils vibrant superbloom inspired official look
Drawing inspiration from the citys official flower, the Bird of Paradise, and past Olympic Games, the concept reflects Los Angeles creative energy and cultural diversity.
'I F****G Love cricket, I F****G love this team': Ben Stokes hits back at critics
England captain Ben Stokes has revealed the recent Ashes defeat was the most challenging period of his captaincy. Despite the 4-1 loss and internal issues, Stokes reaffirmed his commitment to leading the team forward with head coach Brendon McCullum and managing director Rob Key, vowing to improve and bring pride to the fans.
India pick Kashvee Gautam for SA T20I tour
Amanjot Kaur, G Kamalini and Vaishnavi Sharma have been left out
Boland feeling primed for final push of big season
The pace bowler has been able to manage himself through a season that included all five Ashes Tests
Memorial plaque, 11 seats to honour Chinnaswamy stampede victims: RCB, KSCA
M Chinnaswamy Stadium will honor 11 fans lost in a tragedy. A memorial plaque and 11 reserved seats will be unveiled. Royal Challengers Bengaluru will lead tributes before the match. The stadium remembers the lives lost during celebrations. This tribute ensures their memory remains part of the venue.
'Those last three balls..': Virat Kohli recalls 'toughest part' of IPL 2025 final
Virat Kohli reflects on Royal Challengers Bengaluru's historic IPL 2025 triumph, calling the final moments of the title clash against Punjab Kings the most nerve-wracking phase. Despite victory being within reach, the wait for the last few deliveries tested his emotions, bringing back memories of his 18-year journey with the franchise.
