IPL Cricket: Royal Challengers Bengaluru beat Punjab Kings by 23 runs
In IPL Cricket, Royal Challengers Bengaluru defeated Punjab Kings by 23 runs in Dharamsala this evening. With this victory, Royal Challengers Bengaluru became the first team to qualify for the playoffs. Put in to bat, Royal Challengers Bengaluru posted an impressive total of 222 runs for the loss of 4 wickets in stipulated 20 overs. []
Bengaluru qualify for playoffs
Venkatesh, Kohli half-century power their 23-run victory over Punjab Dharamsala: Royal Challengers Bengaluru held their nerve and survived a late onslaught to edge out Punjab Kings by 23 runs to become the first team to secure an IPL playoffs berth with an all-round performance here on Sunday. Venkatesh Iyer blasted a spectacular 40-ball 73 not []
IPL 2026: 6 losses after 6 wins for Punjab, RCB in playoffs
IPL 2026: Royal Challengers Bengaluru secured a playoff berth by defeating Punjab Kings by 23 runs. Virat Kohli and Venkatesh Iyer scored half-centuries, setting a target of 222. Bhuvneshwar Kumar's early bowling spell crippled Punjab Kings. The team's batting faltered, leading to their sixth consecutive loss and near elimination from the tournament.
IPL 2026: It's Frustrating, But There's Still Hope, Says PBKS's James Hopes After RCB Defeat
Royal Challengers Bengaluru: A sixth successive defeat after six wins and one abandoned match has left Punjab Kings in a dire situation in the Indian Premier League as they go through a terrible run of defeats, but Fast bowling coach James Hopes said there's still hope and they need to turn it around in their last match. Punjab Kings are on 13 points from 13 matches and could have done their chances a world of good if they had defeated Royal Challengers Bengaluru on Sunday. However, they lost by 23 runs chasing a massive total of 223. Yeah, it's frustrating, to be honest. Yeah, we are staring it (elimination) in the face now. There's still hope, but we need to turn it around. We need to tidy up some areas, said Hopes in the post-match press conference on Sunday. Talking about Sunday's match against RCB, Hopes said they were always chasing their tail in the match. Today, once again, I felt like we were always chasing our tail, with the ball, not creating enough opportunities early. We controlled the Power-play pretty well, but every time we'd get back the momentum, they'd have a big over, they'd get back on top. And then in the chase, we sort of got going, but then, yeah, it just petered out, said Hopes. The PBKS fast bowling coach said they lost too many wickets early on. We lost too many wickets early, but it was just...Tonight's game, the way we lost was less frustrating than the other games, to be honest. But, yeah, it was just another disappointing night. He disagreed with the notion that, because of the high-scoring wins in the first half of the tournament, PBKS have gone into defensive mode and are finding it difficult to come out of it. He admitted they missed a few opportunities in the field and though they gave away 20-odd extra runs, allowing RCB to put up a challenging total. About the road ahead for them, the Aussie bowling coach said, Defending a massive total of 222/4, RCB produced a disciplined bowling effort led by Rasikh Salam Dar, who claimed three wickets, to restrict Punjab Kings to 199/8 despite a fighting half-century from Shashank Singh. The victory helped RCB move to 18 points from 13 matches and secure a place in the playoffs. We have a week now where, hopefully, a few results go our way, and we're playing again in the finals next weekend. But the boys have got to regroup, and they've got to stay positive, and they've got to believe, if we have an opportunity to make the finals, that we can make some noise if we get in there. About the road ahead for them, the Aussie bowling coach said, Defending a massive total of 222/4, RCB produced a disciplined bowling effort led by Rasikh Salam Dar, who claimed three wickets, to restrict Punjab Kings to 199/8 despite a fighting half-century from Shashank Singh. The victory helped RCB move to 18 points from 13 matches and secure a place in the playoffs. Also Read: Live Cricket Score Defending a massive total of 222/4, RCB produced a disciplined bowling effort led by Rasikh Salam Dar, who claimed three wickets, to restrict Punjab Kings to 199/8 despite a fighting half-century from Shashank Singh. The victory helped RCB move to 18 points from 13 matches and secure a place in the playoffs. Article Source: IANS
Farm fires nosedive: Day after 283 cases, Punjab reports only 11
Hypertension a growing health concern across all age groups: Punjab minister
Punjab BJP Demands Postponement of Municipal Elections Due to Violence
Chandigarh, May 17: The Punjab unit of the Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) has formally requested the state election commission and Director General of Police Gaurav Yadav to postpone the municipal elections in the Muktsar district. This request follows a complaint citing widespread violence, threats, and interference in the nomination process, as well as alleged biased ... Read more Punjab BJP Demands Postponement of Municipal Elections Due to Violence
Shreyas Iyer Points Out Exactly Where It Went Wrong As Punjab Kings Lose 6th Game In A Row
Punjab Kings skipper Shreyas Iyer admitted that his side lost the match in the powerplay after suffering a 23-run defeat against Royal Challengers Bengaluru in their IPL 2026 clash.
Actor and former radio jockey RJ Mahvash opened up about dating rumours involving Punjab Kings cricketer Yuzvendra Chahal and said that she stood by him during a difficult period of his life.
IPL 2026: The Wicket Was Gripping, Thought I Can Use More Of Slower Balls, Says DC's Madhav Tiwari
Impact Player Dasun Shanaka: Young seam-bowling all-rounder Madhav Tiwari credited the gripping nature of the wicket for his success with slower balls, as Delhi Capitals pulled off a stirring fightback with the ball to keep Rajasthan Royals to 193/8 in the Indian Premier League (IPL) 2026 at the Arun Jaitley Stadium in New Delhi on Sunday. At 160/2 after 14 overs, the Royals appeared set for a massive total. But the momentum shifted after a brief stoppage for medical attention to Riyan Parag, who hit a 23-ball fifty. Axar Patel recalled Starc, who had gone for 28 in his first two overs, and the Australian responded with a decisive 15th over, removing Parag, Donovan Ferreira, and Ravi Singh, before taking out Impact Player Dasun Shanaka to pick 4-40. Tiwari, who impressed with both bat and ball on debut against Punjab Kings in Dharamshala, once again stood out by dismissing a marauding Vaibhav Sooryavanshi and Shubham Dubey. Coming into this IPL season, I just thought that I'm gonna take in four or five variations with me and I'm gonna back them throughout the season. So, I have been working on them, and hopefully, the results are helping in my favor. Tiwari, who impressed with both bat and ball on debut against Punjab Kings in Dharamshala, once again stood out by dismissing a marauding Vaibhav Sooryavanshi and Shubham Dubey. Also Read: Live Cricket Score Lungi Ngidi closed out the innings with clever variations, as RR eventually made 193/8, after losing six wickets for 33 runs in the last six overs. I don't know. I have to ask them, said Tiwari, when asked about his familys reaction, before adding that DC can chase down the target and aim to end their home leg on a high. I think we'll get it. Article Source: IANS
Hopes rues PBKS bowlers inability to create early chances
Punjab Kings bowling coach James Hopes denied suggestions that Arshdeep Singh was not fully committed to the team amid a slew of off-field controversies
Punjab Kings Captain Shreyas Iyer Reflects on Loss to RCB in IPL 2026
Dharamshala, May 17: The Punjab Kings continue to struggle in IPL 2026. On Sunday, they faced a 23-run defeat against the Royal Challengers Bangalore (RCB) at the Himachal Pradesh Cricket Association Stadium. This loss marks Punjabs sixth consecutive defeat, dimming their hopes of reaching the playoffs. After the match, Punjab Kings captain Shreyas Iyer stated, ... Read more Punjab Kings Captain Shreyas Iyer Reflects on Loss to RCB in IPL 2026
Venkatesh Iyer Celebrates Batting Opportunity Over Player of the Match Award
Dharamshala, May 17: Venkatesh Iyer emerged as the hero in the IPL 2026 match between Punjab Kings and Royal Challengers Bangalore (RCB) held at the Himachal Pradesh Cricket Association Stadium on Sunday. The explosive left-handed batsman played a crucial role in RCBs victory, scoring an unbeaten 73 runs off 40 balls, leading his team to ... Read more Venkatesh Iyer Celebrates Batting Opportunity Over Player of the Match Award
Punjab Kings Out Of IPL 2026 Playoffs Race? Scenarios Explained After Loss Against RCB
Punjab Kings suffered a massive blow to their IPL 2026 Playoffs dreams as the Shreyas Iyer-led side slumped to their sixth consecutive loss on Sunday.
Cooper Connolly Breaks Sanath Jayasuriyas Record for Most Sixes in IPL Debut Season
New Delhi, May 17: In a remarkable achievement, Cooper Connolly, playing for Punjab Kings in IPL 2026, has set a new record for the most sixes hit by a batsman in a debut season. Connolly has scored 473 runs in 12 innings across 13 matches, including one century and two half-centuries. His batting average stands ... Read more Cooper Connolly Breaks Sanath Jayasuriyas Record for Most Sixes in IPL Debut Season
Tomorrow again Im going to see the sunrise: Shreyas turns philosophical after PBKS loss
Despite Punjab Kings' sixth consecutive defeat, captain Shreyas Iyer remains philosophical, emphasizing belief and attitude over results. He acknowledged early batting damage as the turning point in their loss to RCB, stating the match was lost in the powerplay. Iyer expressed disappointment but praised middle-order resistance, looking forward with optimism.
RCB secure playoffs berth as PBKS slump to sixth straight defeat
Royal Challengers Bengaluru became the first team to reach the IPL playoffs. They defeated Punjab Kings by 23 runs in Dharamsala. Venkatesh Iyer scored 73 not out and Virat Kohli made 58. Punjab Kings fell short in their chase despite Shashank Singh's 56. This marks Punjab's sixth consecutive loss.
IPL 2026: The Match Was Lost In The Powerplay, Says Iyer After PBKS's Defeat To RCB
Himachal Pradesh Cricket Association Stadium: Punjab Kings skipper Shreyas Iyer admitted that his side lost the match in the power-play after suffering a 23-run defeat against Royal Challengers Bengaluru in their IPL 2026 clash in the Indian Premier League (IPL) 2026 at the Himachal Pradesh Cricket Association Stadium in Dharamshala on Sunday. Chasing a massive target of 223, Punjab Kings were rocked early as Priyansh Arya, Prabhsimran Singh, and Shreyas himself were dismissed cheaply inside the first three overs. The early collapse left the hosts struggling at 19/3, making the chase difficult despite a spirited fightback later in the innings. Obviously, they got off to a great start and then started taking on the bowlers right after the power play. I think getting to 222 was a commendable performance, and we werent able to take wickets in the bowling that much, but yeah, I think the match was lost in the powerplay, Iyer said after the game. Punjab Kings eventually finished at 199/8 despite aggressive knocks from Shashank Singh and Marcus Stoinis. Shashank smashed 56 off just 27 deliveries while Stoinis contributed 37 off 25 balls, but the required run rate proved too steep after the early damage. Reflecting on the difficult chase, Shreyas pointed to the absence of strong starts from openers Arya and Prabhsimran, both of whom had been among the teams most consistent performers this season. Absolutely. We were three down, and the majority of our run scorers were Prabhsimran and Priyansh. The starts they used to give us in the power play, obviously, we couldnt get this time, and also me coming in and getting out early, he said. Really disappointed, but commendable performance by Shashank and Stoinis, and also a few others in the middle. I think we were up there with almost 10 and over, but yeah, fell short. Tremendous bowling by Bhuvi and Hazlewood, he added. Bhuvneshwar Kumar provided RCB the perfect start with two wickets in the opening overs, while Josh Hazlewood picked up important breakthroughs in the middle and death overs to stop Punjab Kings recovery. The defeat also confirmed Royal Challengers Bengaluru as the first team to qualify for the IPL 2026 playoffs, with RCB moving to 18 points from 13 matches. Despite the setback, Shreyas remained optimistic about Punjab Kings chances going forward and said he would continue to maintain a positive mindset ahead of their next game against Lucknow Super Giants. The defeat also confirmed Royal Challengers Bengaluru as the first team to qualify for the IPL 2026 playoffs, with RCB moving to 18 points from 13 matches. Also Read: Live Cricket Score With this loss, PBKS' qualification chances look very slim. They have to beat LSG in their final match and then depend on other teams' results to also go in their favour, as they can now reach a maximum of 15 points. Article Source: IANS
Punjab Kings Struggle Continues in Dharamshala, Winning Only One Match Since 2023
New Delhi, May 17: Punjab Kings began IPL 2026 with an impressive performance, remaining unbeaten in their first seven matches. However, the season took a downturn in the second half. The team is now desperately seeking a win, having lost to Royal Challengers Bangalore (RCB) by 23 runs on Sunday. This defeat marked Punjabs sixth ... Read more Punjab Kings Struggle Continues in Dharamshala, Winning Only One Match Since 2023
Lashkar terrorist goes for hair transplant after infiltrating to set up sleeper bases in India
Srinagar, May 17: Infiltrating Jammu and Kashmir to execute terror attacks for the banned Lashkar-e-Taiba (LET), a Pakistani terrorist paused his operations to fulfil a personal dream -- getting a hair transplant. Mohammed Usman Jatt, alias 'Chinese', told interrogators that he found life in Kashmir completely different from what he had been tutored in terrorist training camps and went for hairline restoration in Srinagar after learning about it from a shop owner, officials said here on Sunday. The case is being probed by the National Investigation Agency (NIA). During interrogation, Jatt spoke about his entry into Jammu and Kashmir through the northern part of the valley as well as the places where he had spent time, the officials said. A resident of Lahore and a trained operative of the banned terrorist outfit Lashkar-e-Taiba (LeT), Jutt said he had crossed the border with instructions to execute a series of attacks. He was involved in terror activities in north and central Kashmir, the officials said. However, he claimed during interrogation that his objectives shifted entirely after he witnessed the reality of daily life in Kashmir which was completely contrary to what they had been told during Lashkar training across the border. Jatt, known within terror circles by his alias Chinese, was arrested early last month by the Srinagar Police alongside Abdullah, alias Abu Hureira, the longest-surviving Lashkar-e-Taiba terrorist. The duo had been tasked with setting up sleeper terror bases outside Jammu and Kashmir. The case was subsequently handed over to the NIA due to its national and international ramifications. The arrested terrorist said that he had been dealing with severe hair loss for years, an issue that had deeply impacted his self-esteem. While he had previously heard about hair restoration procedures, he believed they were a distant luxury available only in the West. The officials said during his stay in the upper hills of Srinagar, he was introduced to Pakistani terrorists Zargam and Abdullah alias 'Abu Huriera'. He also spoke about the various people with whom he had stayed, which led the Srinagar police to bust the entire racket of Over Ground Workers (OGWs) of the terror group operating in North Kashmir and Srinagar city. While giving details about the OGW network, the arrested terrorist said Zargam took him to a shop and conveyed that the owner was a reliable person. During his conversation with the owner, Jutt learned that he had undergone a hair transplant. Thereafter, the terrorist continued to visit the shop owner and persuaded him to help him get a hair transplant. He was finally taken for the procedure within the city, the officials said, adding that at times he had to stay overnight in the clinic for the procedure. After his procedure was over, Jutt, who had already tied up with 'Abu Huriera', took a passenger vehicle to Jammu and later a sleeper bus to Punjab on his way to Malerkotla. There, he spent time watching Turkish shows and attempted to learn English, according to officials. The arrested terrorist told his interrogators that he wanted to make a genuine Aadhar card, PAN card and eventually a passport to escape from India like Umar alias 'Khargosh' (rabbit), who managed to get a passport and has since fled to Indonesia, from where he is believed to have used another forged travel document and stationed himself somewhere in a Gulf country, the officials said. Umar, a resident of Karachi in Pakistan, had infiltrated into India after 2012 and fled using the forged passport procured from Jaipur in Rajasthan in 2024, the officials said. This unearthing of an interstate LeT module comes nearly six months after the 'Al Falah module' was busted in November 2025 by the Srinagar police which unravelled a network comprising highly educated professionals, mostly doctors, who had been radicalised to carry out terrorist activities. One of the accused was the Al Falah University's Dr Umer-un Nabi, who was driving the explosives-laden car that detonated outside the Red Fort on November 10 last year, killing more than a dozen people.
IPL 2026: We Still Want To Show What We Can Do On The Field As A Group, Says DCs Starc
Indian Premier League: Delhi Capitals left-arm pacer Mitchell Starc said the side remains determined to showcase its collective strength in the final stretch of the Indian Premier League (IPL) 2026 league stage, even as the race to the playoffs tightens. DC are at eighth spot with 10 points from 12 games and have a slim chance to enter the playoffs if they win their remaining two league stage games, including the clash against Rajasthan Royals at the Arun Jaitley Stadium in New Delhi on Sunday. I mean, as each day goes past, we get a bit more percentage of a chance of getting through, and the way the game is going at the moment, it is good for us. So, I mean, we've still got two games. We still want to show what we can do on the field here as a group. There's been a little bit of change over the last couple of games, and if that may happen again tonight and in the next game, that's it, but it's a chance for the guys to show what they can do. For the guys who have been going well, you look at KL, who has had a fantastic season with the bat, and a few guys who have come in and taken their opportunities. So, there's still plenty to play for, and it's still a great chance for these two games to perform if you come in, and as a group, you know, you never know what can happen in cricket, said Starc in a pre-match chat with the broadcasters. Starc also emphasised adaptability as the key factor for DC to do well at their home venue. Obviously, we've played them away maybe a week... or a couple of weeks ago, actually. So, I think it is probably two teams that know each other. Then it comes down to these conditions. Here in Delhi, they've changed the game on game. So, I think that's going to be the key tonight, is adapting to what's presented to us on this wicket, which is a little bit of an unknown. Your guess is as good as mine. But, if you can adjust as quickly as you can, the team that's going to do that the quickest generally takes the advantage in the game. Asked what DC did after winning over Punjab Kings in Dharamshala, Starc said, It's been a little bit of a break. We've got another one after tonight, so it's been a chance for I think a couple of guys to duck home for a night. I've noticed there's been a little bit of golf. For me, I've just been watching the golf and the footy back home, just getting the old body right for tonight. So, no, it's been a little refresher, and hopefully we're good to go tonight, he said. RR pacer Jofra Archer, meanwhile, spoke about RRs longish break in their last two matches. We had a few team bonding sessions as well, and the gap, the first gap, they just let us do whatever we wanted to do on those few days. We had some pool volleyball. We had a MasterChef. And we had a really nice dinner, actually, at one of the really historic places in Rajasthan. I've noticed there's been a little bit of golf. For me, I've just been watching the golf and the footy back home, just getting the old body right for tonight. So, no, it's been a little refresher, and hopefully we're good to go tonight, he said. Also Read: Live Cricket Score RR also needs to win their remaining three games to enter the playoffs, and Archer said the tournament is still wide open for anyone to enter the last four stage. Not just DC, but I think every team in the competition. It doesn't matter where they are in the table. Anybody can beat anybody. Didn't have GT losing on my radar last night either. And that kind of just shows that you can't take anyone for granted in this tournament. Article Source: IANS
IPL 2026: Ruthless RCB storm into playoffs as PBKS slump to sixth straight defeat
Defending champions Royal Challengers Bengaluru secured a playoff spot with a dominant 23-run victory over Punjab Kings in Dharamsala. Virat Kohli's energetic performance, coupled with crucial knocks from Devdutt Padikkal and Venkatesh Iyer, propelled RCB to a commanding total. Bhuvneshwar Kumar's early wickets stifled Punjab's chase, highlighting RCB's championship mettle.
IPL 2026: RCB Seal Playoff Berth With 23-run Victory Against Punjab Kings
Himachal Pradesh Cricket Association Stadium: Royal Challengers Bengaluru (RCB) became the first team to qualify for the Indian Premier League (IPL) 2026 playoffs after defeating Punjab Kings by 23 runs in a high-scoring contest at the Himachal Pradesh Cricket Association Stadium on Sunday. Defending a massive total of 222/4, RCB produced a disciplined bowling effort led by Rasikh Salam Dar, who claimed three wickets, to restrict Punjab Kings to 199/8 despite a fighting half-century from Shashank Singh. The victory helped RCB move to 18 points from 13 matches and secure a place in the playoffs. Punjab Kings endured a disastrous start to the chase as Bhuvneshwar Kumar removed Priyansh Arya for a duck in the opening over. The experienced pacer struck again in his next over when Prabhsimran Singh edged a good-length delivery to first slip after scoring just two runs. RCB tightened their grip further when impact substitute Rasikh Salam Dar dismissed Punjab Kings skipper Shreyas Iyer for one. With wickets falling around him, Cooper Connolly launched a counterattack alongside Suryansh Shedge. Shedge took on Josh Hazlewood with a boundary and a six, while Connolly attacked Rasikh to help Punjab Kings recover to 49/3 at the end of the Power-play. Connolly continued to play aggressively before Romario Shepherd provided the breakthrough in the eighth over. Attempting another big shot, Connolly was caught at deep square leg after scoring 37 off 22 balls, including three fours and three sixes. Shedge then stitched together a useful partnership with Marcus Stoinis as the pair rebuilt the innings with regular boundaries and sensible strike rotation. However, RCB struck again when Virat Kohli completed a sharp catch at long-off to dismiss Shedge for 35 off 22 deliveries. Punjab Kings still had hope with Stoinis at one end and Shashank Singh launching an aggressive assault at the other. Shashank changed the momentum of the chase by smashing three sixes in an over off Suyash Sharma before adding more boundaries to keep the required run rate under control. Stoinis also shifted gears and struck consecutive boundaries against Rasikh as Punjab Kings reached 146/5 after 15 overs, needing 77 runs from the final five overs. Shashank continued to fight hard and produced a stunning helicopter shot against Bhuvneshwar Kumar as the chase remained alive. However, Hazlewood delivered a crucial breakthrough in the 17th over by trapping Stoinis lbw for 37 off 25 balls. Despite losing his partner, Shashank kept attacking and completed a rapid half-century in just 22 balls. But with little support from the other end, the required rate continued to climb. RCB finally sealed the match in the final over when Rasikh dismissed Shashank, who was caught at long-on after a superb knock of 56 off 27 deliveries, featuring four boundaries and four sixes. Rasikh then picked up another wicket on the final ball as the Punjab Kings finished at 199/8. Earlier, RCB posted 222/4 riding on an unbeaten 73 from Venkatesh Iyer and Virat Kohlis 58. Devdutt Padikkal also made an important contribution with a quickfire 45. Asked to bat first, RCB managed only 17 runs in the first two overs as Kohli and Jacob Bethell took time to adjust to the conditions. Bethell struggled for timing and was eventually bowled by Harpreet Brar for 11 off seven balls. Padikkal then shifted the momentum immediately by hitting a six off his first delivery. Kohli also joined the attack as the duo mixed aggressive strokeplay with smart strike rotation to keep the scoreboard moving quickly. Their partnership helped RCB reach 61/1 at the end of the Power-play. Punjab Kings introduced Yuzvendra Chahal to slow the scoring rate, but the leg-spinner conceded 21 runs in his opening over. Kohli and Padikkal added 76 runs for the second wicket before Brar struck again, dismissing Padikkal for an entertaining 45 off 25 balls, including four boundaries and three sixes. Kohli continued to dominate and completed his fifty in just 31 deliveries. He later fell for 58 off 37 balls after being caught at deep mid-wicket off Chahal. Venkatesh Iyer then took charge in the death overs. After a slow start, he accelerated brilliantly and completed his fifty off 29 balls. The left-hander remained unbeaten on 73 off 40 deliveries, smashing eight fours and four sixes. Tim David provided late support with a quick 28 off 12 balls as RCB crossed the 220-run mark. Kohli continued to dominate and completed his fifty in just 31 deliveries. He later fell for 58 off 37 balls after being caught at deep mid-wicket off Chahal. Also Read: Live Cricket Score Royal Challengers Bengaluru 222/4 in 20 overs (Venkatesh Iyer 73*, Virat Kohli 58, Devdutt Padikkal 45; Harpreet Brar 2-35, Yuzvendra Chahal 1-42) beat Punjab Kings 199/8 in 20 overs (Shashank Singh 56, Cooper Connolly 37, Suryansh Shedge 35; Rasikh Salam Dar 3-36, Bhuvneshwar Kumar 2-38) by 23 runs. Article Source: IANS
RCB Secures Playoff Spot with 23-Run Victory Over Punjab Kings in IPL 2026
Himachal Pradesh, May 17: Royal Challengers Bangalore (RCB) clinched a spot in the IPL 2026 playoffs by defeating Punjab Kings by 23 runs at the Himachal Pradesh Cricket Association Stadium on Sunday. This victory marks RCB as the first team to qualify for the playoffs this season. With this win, RCB has achieved nine victories ... Read more RCB Secures Playoff Spot with 23-Run Victory Over Punjab Kings in IPL 2026
IPL 2026: RCB Beat Punjab Kings By 22 Runs, Qualify For Playoffs
RCB rode on fluent half-centuries from Virat Kohli and Venkatesh Iyer, along with a decisive opening spell from pacer Bhuvneshwar Kumar, to thrash Punjab Kings by 23 runs and seal a playoff berth in the IPL
Kohli Sets New IPL Record as Top T20 Partnership Player
Dharamshala, May 17: Royal Challengers Bangalore (RCB) opener Virat Kohli has achieved a significant milestone in the Indian Premier League (IPL). He has now jointly topped the list for the most half-century partnerships in mens T20 matches. On Sunday, during the IPL 2026 match against Punjab Kings (PBKS), Kohli partnered with Devdutt Padikkal to score ... Read more Kohli Sets New IPL Record as Top T20 Partnership Player
IPL 2026: It's A Pretty Good Total, Padikkal Backs RCB Bowlers To Defend 222 Against PBKS
Himachal Pradesh Cricket Association Stadium: Royal Challengers Bengaluru (RCB) batter Devdutt Padikkal expressed confidence in his sides bowling attack and said that the total is sufficient after RCB posted a commanding 222/4 against Punjab Kings (PBKS) in their Indian Premier League (IPL) 2026 clash at the Himachal Pradesh Cricket Association Stadium in Dharamshala on Sunday. Padikkal, who played a brisk knock of 45 off 25 deliveries, said the total was competitive but stressed that the bowlers would need to execute their plans well on a surface that appeared slightly slow during the afternoon game. I think its a pretty good total, but again, like any other game, we have to bowl well and make sure that we restrict them under that, Padikkal said during the mid-innings break. RCB recovered quickly after the early dismissal of Jacob Bethell as Padikkal and Virat Kohli added 76 runs for the second wicket to put the innings back on track. While Kohli went on to score 58, Padikkal narrowly missed his half-century but ensured RCB maintained an aggressive scoring rate through the middle overs. Speaking about the nature of the Dharamshala wicket, the left-hander said the pitch was not the easiest for strokeplay early on and expected the bowlers to make use of the conditions in the second innings as well. I think you expect that in day games. It is a little bit slow, especially with the new ball. It wasnt coming on as well, but I think its important that we make use of that and make sure that our bowlers know that as well, he said. Padikkal added that the RCB bowling unit had enough experience and skill to adjust according to the surface without needing extensive instructions. Like you asked earlier, I think its a bit of a slow wicket. Its important that we make sure that we use that. We obviously have to go into the wicket a little bit more, I suppose. At the end of the day, we have really skilful bowlers. They dont need too much information from me. I think they know what to do, he added. Reflecting on his partnership with Kohli after Bethells early dismissal, Padikkal said his role during the Power-play was to build a solid stand and carry the momentum forward for the team. Again, when I go into the power play, its important that I make sure that I stitch a partnership with Virat, or Jacob, who wasnt there, and really push that momentum and take it forward for the team, he said. Reflecting on his partnership with Kohli after Bethells early dismissal, Padikkal said his role during the Power-play was to build a solid stand and carry the momentum forward for the team. Also Read: Live Cricket Score RCB eventually crossed the 220-run mark thanks to an unbeaten 73 from Venkatesh Iyer and a late cameo from Tim David, leaving Punjab Kings with a challenging target of 223. Article Source: IANS
Cannes 2026: Meet FTIIs Mehar Malhotra, whose Punjabi short is Indias only film in competition
Malhotra, who calls herself neurospicy says filmmaking is her therapy, and why she made Shadows of the Moonless Nights; previously, two FTII films have won at La Cinef
Vijay Fever Reaches IPL 2026 As RCB Star Pays Tribute With Fifty Celebration - Watch
Royal Challengers Bengaluru paid tribute to Tamil Nadu Chief Minister and star actor Vijay with a half-century celebration during their IPL 2026 match against Punjab Kings.
Virat Kohli Breaks His Own Record, Achieves 2 Huge Milestones During PBKS vs RCB Clash
Royal Challengers Bengaluru (RCB) star Virat Kohli went to the top of two more metrics as he slammed a half-century against Punjab Kings (PBKS) in IPL 2026 on Sunday.
Shreyas Iyer and Punjab Kings script unwanted all-time T20 record
Punjab Kings endured another bowling collapse, conceding 222 to Royal Challengers Bengaluru, setting unwanted T20 records. The team now holds the record for most 200-plus totals conceded in men's T20 cricket history, and captain Shreyas Iyer also set a new captaincy record for such instances. This latest defeat further jeopardizes their playoff hopes.
RCB Sets a Massive Target of 223 Runs Against Punjab Kings in IPL 2026
Dharmshala, May 17: Royal Challengers Bangalore (RCB) has set a formidable target of 223 runs for Punjab Kings (PBKS) in the 61st match of the Indian Premier League (IPL) 2026, held at the HPCA Stadium on Sunday. Virat Kohli and Venkatesh Iyer both delivered impressive half-centuries, aiming to secure a playoff spot with 18 points. ... Read more RCB Sets a Massive Target of 223 Runs Against Punjab Kings in IPL 2026
'Sarpanch' Shreyas reaches another milestone, joins Dhoni & Kohli to become ...
The milestone came during Punjab Kings IPL 2026 match against Royal Challengers Bengaluru at the Himachal Pradesh Cricket Association Stadium in Dharamsala.
Shreyas Iyer Becomes Fifth Player To Complete 100 IPL Matches As Captain
Himachal Pradesh Cricket Association Stadium: Shreyas Iyer added another milestone to his growing leadership resume on Sunday as the Punjab Kings captain became only the fifth player in Indian Premier League history to lead a side in 100 matches. The landmark came during PBKS IPL 2026 clash against Royal Challengers Bengaluru at the Himachal Pradesh Cricket Association Stadium on Sunday, placing Iyer alongside some of the most decorated captains in the tournaments history. Before Iyer, only MS Dhoni, Gautam Gambhir, Virat Kohli and Rohit Sharma had reached the three-figure mark as IPL captains. The 31-year-old has built his captaincy record across three franchises, Delhi Capitals, Kolkata Knight Riders and PBKS, highlighting both his tactical reputation and consistent demand as a leader in the league. Iyer first took charge of Delhi Capitals in 2018 and led the franchise in 41 matches, guiding them to their maiden IPL final in 2020. He later moved to KKR, where he captained the side in 29 games between 2022 and 2024 and ended the franchises long wait for silverware by lifting the IPL title in 2024. His latest chapter with PBKS has already produced another finals appearance, making Iyer the only captain in IPL history to lead three different teams into the tournament final. Across his first 99 matches as skipper before Sundays game, Iyer had registered 56 victories, including two Super Over wins, while suffering 40 defeats. Three games ended without a result. His success rate across completed matches stands at 58.3 per cent, level with Dhoni for the best win percentage among captains in IPL history. The achievement further strengthens Iyers reputation as one of the most effective leaders of the modern IPL era, particularly given the contrasting squads and transitions he has managed across franchises. Punjabs campaign this season has mirrored that inconsistency. The team began IPL 2026 in stunning fashion, putting together a seven-match unbeaten run that included six wins and a washed-out fixture. However, momentum slipped dramatically midway through the season, with five consecutive defeats leaving their playoff hopes hanging in the balance. The achievement further strengthens Iyers reputation as one of the most effective leaders of the modern IPL era, particularly given the contrasting squads and transitions he has managed across franchises. Also Read: Live Cricket Score At the top of the all-time list remains Dhoni, who has captained in 235 IPL matches for Chennai Super Kings and Rising Pune Supergiant between 2008 and 2025. Article Source: IANS
Punjab Police Arrest Four Suspects in Murder Case, Seize Weapons and Ammunition
Jalandhar, May 17: The Punjab Police have apprehended four suspects linked to murder cases who had been evading arrest for several days. After extensive efforts, law enforcement successfully detained all suspects and placed them behind bars. The police announced this operation on their social media platform, X. According to police reports, the suspects were found ... Read more Punjab Police Arrest Four Suspects in Murder Case, Seize Weapons and Ammunition
AAP Leader Questions Punjabs Special Intensive Revision Process
Chandigarh, May 17: The Special Intensive Revision (SIR) process in Punjab is set to commence on June 25, as announced by the Election Commission. This announcement has raised concerns from Aam Aadmi Party leader and MP from Sri Anandpur Sahib, Malwinder Singh Kang. In a post on the social media platform X, Kang urged the ... Read more AAP Leader Questions Punjabs Special Intensive Revision Process
Concerns Raised Over Special Intensive Revision in Punjab Ahead of Elections
Chandigarh, May 17: The Special Intensive Revision (SIR) process in Punjab is set to commence on June 25, as announced by the Election Commission. Malwinder Singh Kang, a leader of the Aam Aadmi Party and MP from Sri Anandpur Sahib, has raised questions regarding this initiative. In a post on the social media platform X, ... Read more Concerns Raised Over Special Intensive Revision in Punjab Ahead of Elections
'He Remained The Same Despite Two Ducks': Tim David Hails Kohli's Consistency
Royal Challengers Bengaluru: Royal Challengers Bengaluru (RCB) batter Tim David said batting stalwart Virat Kohli never looked affected by his lean patch earlier in the season, adding that the former India captains mindset and consistency continue to set the tone for the franchise ahead of their IPL 2026 clash against Punjab Kings. Kohli recently silenced criticism with a match-winning century against Kolkata Knight Riders (KKR) in the previous match after enduring a couple of low scores, but David said there was never any visible change in the veteran batters approach or confidence. To be honest, he doesnt change; you wouldnt have known that he had two ducks unless youd been watching the TV or something else. It was great for him to score a hundred, great for all of our fans to see that, and it was a match-winning performance, David told broadcasters ahead of the match. David added that RCBs strong campaign this season has been built on collective contributions rather than individual brilliance alone. Weve had so many people in our team stepping up this season. Hopefully its him again or someone else, but were feeling pretty good, he said. The Australian power-hitter also praised RCBs top order for playing fearless cricket and giving the middle-order freedom to play their roles calmly. At the top, we have some really classy players. Those guys play good cricketing shots; they make themselves feel confident to play aggressively and express themselves with the depth weve got, David said. He admitted that some of the lower middle-order batters have not always had enough time in the middle because of the consistency shown by the top-order batters. Weve certainly got guys that dont get enough batting as much as theyd want because were watching the guys put on a clinic at the top, he noted. Speaking about his own form, David said he has been pleased with the way he has been striking the ball throughout the season and is focused on delivering whenever the team requires him. To be honest, Im just looking forward most of the time. I feel like Ive been batting really well the whole season. I just want to put in performances for the team. I've been hitting the ball really well at training consistently, and hopefully when I get the chance in the middle, I can do whatever the team needs, he said. David also underlined the importance of composure and decision-making in pressure situations. To be honest, Im just looking forward most of the time. I feel like Ive been batting really well the whole season. I just want to put in performances for the team. I've been hitting the ball really well at training consistently, and hopefully when I get the chance in the middle, I can do whatever the team needs, he said. Also Read: Live Cricket Score Meanwhile, RCB are currently placed at the top spot in the points table with 16 points in 12 matches. They will confirm their playoff birth if they beat PBKS. Article Source: IANS
IPL 2026: PBKS Wins Toss Against RCB, Rajat Patidar Ruled Out Due to Injury
Dharamshala, May 17: In the 61st match of IPL 2026, Punjab Kings (PBKS) face off against Royal Challengers Bangalore (RCB) at the Himachal Pradesh Cricket Association Stadium. PBKS captain Shreyas Iyer won the toss and opted to bowl first. The Punjab Kings made two changes to their playing XI for this match. Lockie Ferguson and ... Read more IPL 2026: PBKS Wins Toss Against RCB, Rajat Patidar Ruled Out Due to Injury
Why is RCB captain Rajat Patidar not playing vs Punjab Kings? - Explained
Royal Challengers Bengaluru are without captain Rajat Patidar for their IPL 2026 clash against Punjab Kings, with Jitesh Sharma leading the side. Patidar is recovering well and is expected to return for the next match in Hyderabad. RCB currently sits atop the IPL 2026 points table.
IPL 2026: Rajat Patidar Misses Out For RCB As PBKS Opt To Bowl
Himachal Pradesh Cricket Association Stadium: Punjab Kings (RCB) have won the toss and elected to bowl first against Royal Challengers Bengaluru (RCB) in the match number 61 of the Indian Premier League (IPL) 2026 played at the Himachal Pradesh Cricket Association Stadium on Sunday. RCB skipper Rajat Patidar is not taking part in the match, while wicketkeeper batter Jitesh Sharma is leading the side in his absence. Suyash Sharma is replacing Patidar, while Romario Shepherd replaces Jacob Duffy. Punjab Kings have made two changes in their side as Harpreet Brar and Lockie Ferguson are back in the playing XI. After winning the toss, Shreyas Iyer said We're going to bowl. I'm not going by the stats; we're clearly seeing how the games pan out. If we bat and bowl well, the toss doesn't matter. I seriously had no clue that this was my 100th game as a captain, but it feels great. It feels like a great opportunity for me to win my 100th game (as captain). The bowling has been fantastic, but there are pressure moments where you need to execute, and so you can't change the past, nor can you anticipate the future. The beauty is to stay in the moment, see the moment, and enjoy the pressure. Two changes for us (Harpreet) Brar and Lockie (Ferguson) come in, he added. While after losing the toss, RCB skipper Jitesh Sharma said, We would have loved to bowl first, but the wicket is good and should play well for 40 overs. Rajat is doing fantastic, and we should see him in Hyderabad. We are at the business end of the tournament, and Im happy with how the team is performing, both individually and as a unit. Yes, we are very pleased that the team looks so stable right now. We are giving our absolute best in every department. One win tonight secures our spot in the playoffs, so its a massive game for us. Absolutely, every game is important at this stage. This win can change the entire tablenot just for us, but for several other teams as well.. Suyash replaces Rajat and Romario replaces Duffy, he added. Punjab began their campaign in dominant fashion, winning six of their opening seven matches and emerging as one of the strongest sides in the tournament. However, their momentum has faded in recent weeks, with Shreyas Iyre's men suffering five consecutive defeats. As the playoff battle heats up, PBKS will be desperate to halt the slide and strengthen their chances of securing a top-four finish. PBKS are currently placed at fourth position in the points table with 13 points in 12 matches. The Royal Challengers Bengaluru have been one of the best teams in IPL 2026, winning eight of their 12 matches so far. They are almost through to the playoffs and will now look to secure a top-two finish with a win against the Kings. RCB are coming into this match with confidence after beating the Kolkata Knight Riders, thanks to a brilliant century from Virat Kohli. Playing XIs Punjab Kings: Priyansh Arya, Prabhsimran Singh(wk), Cooper Connolly, Shreyas Iyer(c), Suryansh Shedge, Shashank Singh, Azmatullah Omarzai, Harpreet Brar, Lockie Ferguson, Arshdeep Singh, Yuzvendra Chahal Impact substitutes: Marcus Stoinis, Xavier Bartlett, Vishnu Vinod, Praveen Dubey, Musheer Khan Punjab Kings: Priyansh Arya, Prabhsimran Singh(wk), Cooper Connolly, Shreyas Iyer(c), Suryansh Shedge, Shashank Singh, Azmatullah Omarzai, Harpreet Brar, Lockie Ferguson, Arshdeep Singh, Yuzvendra Chahal Also Read: Live Cricket Score Impact Substitutes: Rasikh Dar, Jordan Cox, Abhinandan Singh, Swapnil Singh, Kaushik Chauhan Article Source: IANS
Nagaland Lottery Results Sunday (17-05-2026): Check timings, winning tickets, and other details
Nagaland State Lottery results for the Sambad Morning Sunday Weekly Draw are out, with a top prize of Rs 1 crore. Winners can claim prizes up to Rs 10,000 from distributors, while larger amounts require a formal application to the Director of Nagaland State Lotteries. The Punjab State Dear 200 Monthly Lottery draw is scheduled for June 6, 2026.
IPL 2026, PBKS vs RCB LIVE: Punjab Kings Wins Toss, Opts To Bowl
While RCB are sitting comfortable on the points table, a sixth loss for Punjab Kings would effectively shut the playoff door on the Shreyas Iyer-led side
Big blow for RCB! Rajat Patidar misses PBKS clash, Jitesh Sharma to lead
Royal Challengers Bengaluru will be without captain Rajat Patidar for their IPL 2026 clash against Punjab Kings. Jitesh Sharma will lead the side in Patidar's absence, who missed travel and practice due to an undisclosed reason. Patidar is expected to return for RCB's final league game.
New Delhi, May 17: The field operations for the Houselisting and Housing Census (HLO) under Phase I of Census 2027 have commenced in five States and Union Territories namely Rajasthan, Meghalaya, Maharashtra, Jharkhand and Municipal Corporation of Delhi (MCD) area in Delhi NCT as part of the ongoing nationwide Census exercise. Meanwhile, House-to-House Houselisting Operations by Enumerators are presently in progress in Andhra Pradesh, Arunachal Pradesh, Bihar, Chandigarh, Chhattisgarh, Dadra & Nagar Haveli and Daman & Diu, Haryana, Madhya Pradesh, Punjab, Telangana and Uttarakhand. The Self-Enumeration (SE) facility has commenced today in Gujarat, Jammu & Kashmir, Ladakh and Puducherry and will remain available till May 31, 2026. The corresponding Houselisting and Housing Census field operations in these States/UTs will be conducted from June 1 to June 30, 2026. The Self-Enumeration facility is also currently underway in Uttar Pradesh and will continue till May 21, 2026, following which the HLO field operations will be conducted from May 22 to June 20, 2026. Earlier, the Houselisting and Housing Census operations conducted from April 16 to May 15, 2026 were completed in the States/UTs of Andaman & Nicobar Islands, Lakshadweep, Mizoram, Odisha and Sikkim, along with the NDMC area and Delhi Cantonment Board area in the National Capital Territory of Delhi. The Self-Enumeration (SE) facility, introduced for the first time in Census operations, continues to receive an encouraging response from the public. More than 1.44 crore households have already completed Self-Enumeration through the official portal (se.census.gov.in) across 25 States/UTs. The initiative marks a significant step towards digitisation of Census operations and offers residents a convenient and secure platform to participate in the Census process. Residents who have completed Self-Enumeration are requested to keep their generated Self-Enumeration ID (SE ID) ready and share the same with the Enumerator during the field visit to complete the HLO process. Households that have not opted for Self-Enumeration will be covered during the physical house-to-house visit by Enumerators. Census 2027 is being conducted using digital tools for the first time while retaining the traditional door-to-door enumeration process to ensure comprehensive and accurate coverage. During field visits, Enumerators are collecting data digitally through a dedicated mobile application. During this phase, information relating to housing conditions, household details, amenities available and assets possessed by households is being collected through a structured questionnaire comprising 33 notified questions. The data collected forms an important basis for evidence-based planning and implementation of welfare and development programmes. All data collected under the Census Act, 1948, remains strictly confidential and is used solely for statistical purposes and development planning. Residents in the notified States/UTs are requested to extend full cooperation to Enumerators during the Houselisting Operations and actively participate in this important national exercise.
Delhi To Face Severe Heatwave Soon, Temperatures May Hit 45 Degrees Celsius
Heatwave conditions are expected to prevail till May 22 across Rajasthan, Uttar Pradesh, Madhya Pradesh, Punjab, Haryana, Chandigarh, Delhi, Chhattisgarh, and parts of Konkan and Goa.
PBKS vs RCB LIVE Score, IPL 2026: Virat Kohli On Cusp Of Big Feat As RCB Face PBKS In Crucial Game
PBKS vs RCB LIVE Score, IPL 2026 LIVE Cricket Score: Punjab Kings will be taking on Royal Challengers Bengaluru in their IPL 2026 match on Sunday in Dharamsala.
PBKS vs RCB Playing 11: Royal Challengers Bengaluru aim to secure a playoff spot as they face Punjab Kings in Dharamshala. For Punjab Kings, this is a crucial must-win match, as another loss would significantly jeopardize their playoff aspirations. The head-to-head record shows a close contest between the two sides.
Congresss Identity Now Defined by Insulting Hindus: Shahzad Poonawala
New Delhi, May 17: BJP spokesperson Shahzad Poonawala launched sharp attacks on Congress, the Muslim League, and Punjab Chief Minister Bhagwant Mann. He addressed various issues, from the courts decision in the Bhojshala case to the political landscape in Kerala and Manns governance style. Regarding the Bhojshala case, Poonawala questioned Congresss distress over the court ... Read more Congresss Identity Now Defined by Insulting Hindus: Shahzad Poonawala
Punjab Police Arrest Three Suspects in Hand Grenade Case
Gurdaspur, May 17: The Punjab Police in Gurdaspur have arrested three individuals linked to a hand grenade incident. Interrogations are ongoing as authorities seek further information regarding the case. The police announced this development on their social media platform. According to police reports, a hand grenade was recovered near Gita Colony in Gurdaspur in April. ... Read more Punjab Police Arrest Three Suspects in Hand Grenade Case
PBKS vs RCB Match 61, IPL 2026: Preview, Predicted XIs, Player Tips & Match Prediction
PBKS vs RCB Match 61 , Cricket Tips : Royal Challengers Bengaluru are just one win away from making it to the playoffs. They are almost through with 16 points on the board. But their qualification is still not confirmed. One more win and they will be officially in. RCB will take on Punjab Kings in match no. 61. Both teams will take on Sunday at 3:30 PM IST at the Himachal Pradesh Cricket Association Stadium. PBKS have now lost five games in a row. They need this win to make their chances stronger. If they lose, they can get eliminated also. PBKS vs RCB: Match Details Date : May 17, 2026 (Sunday) Time : 3:30 PM IST Venue : Himachal Pradesh Cricket Association Stadium, Dharamsala PBKS vs RCB Live Streaming Details The live action of the PBKS vs RCB clash will be on the Star Sports Network in India. Fans can also access the live stream through the Jio Hotstar app or website. PBKS vs RCB Head-to-Head in IPL Total Matches : 37 PBKS : 18 RCB : 19 No - Result : 00 PBKS vs RCB: Ground Pitch Report HPCA Stadium offers a good batting wicket. Already teams have chased down 200+ scores in both games played here. However, there is enough help for the fast bowlers on this wicket. The bounce and pace are good, and bowlers can trouble the batters with the new ball. PBKS vs RCB Possible XIs PBKS : Priyansh Arya, Prabhsimran Singh (wk), Cooper Connolly, Shreyas Iyer (c), Suryansh Shedge, Nehal Wadhera, Azmatullah Omarzai, Marco Jansen, Xavier Bartlett, Arshdeep Singh, Yuzvendra Chahal RCB : Jacob Bethell, Virat Kohli, Rajat Patidar (c), Devdutt Padikkal, Jitesh Sharma (w), Tim David, Venkatesh Iyer, Krunal Pandya, Bhuvneshwar Kumar, Jacob Duffy, Josh Hazlewood PBKS vs RCB Player to Watch Out For Probable Best Batter Virat Kohli is coming off a century and is the player in form. For PBKS, Priyansh Arya is someone who can put RCB under pressure. Probable Best Bowler Bhuvneshwar Kumar has been superb and is bowling well at different stages. For PBKS, Arshdeep Singh bowled well in the last game and will be key. Today Match Prediction : PBKS have lost five games in a row and will be under pressure. Hence, we predict RCB, who are in form, to win this game. PBKS vs RCB Match 61, IPL 2026, Today 2026 Match, PBKS vs RCB 2026 Prediction, PBKS vs RCB Predicted XIs, Injury Update for PBKS vs RCB 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.
PBKS vs RCB Pitch Weather Report: Punjab Kings need a win against Royal Challengers Bengaluru. They have lost five matches in a row. Their IPL 2026 playoff chances are at risk. RCB has shown resilience after early defeats. Virat Kohli has contributed consistently for RCB. The match is in Dharamshala. The pitch is good for batting. The weather will be clear.
Punjab Kings captain Shreyas Iyer leads his team in his 100th IPL captaincy match. After a tough losing streak, Iyer seeks a significant turnaround. He has a strong captaincy record, matching MS Dhoni's win percentage. Iyer's personal form has dipped recently. He faces challenging bowlers in this crucial encounter.
Shreyas Iyer on the verge of history, set to become 5th captain to...
Shreyas Iyer is set to captain Punjab Kings in his 100th IPL match, a significant milestone. He joins an elite group of captains with this achievement. Iyer boasts an impressive win percentage and has led three different franchises to IPL finals. This landmark game comes as PBKS battles to revive their playoff hopes after a string of defeats.
Punjab Carpenter Found Dead in Srinagar
SRINAGAR: A non-local man was found dead in the Nishat area of Srinagar on Sunday, officials said. An official said that the deceased has been identified as Malkeet Singh, a resident of Amritsar, Punjab, presently residing in Nishat, Srinagar. He was around 25 years old and was working as a carpenter in the Valley, the []
How PBKS vs RCB could decide Chennai Super Kings IPL 2026 playoff fate
Chennai Super Kings' IPL 2026 playoff hopes hinge on the Punjab Kings vs. Royal Challengers Bengaluru match. An RCB victory would simplify CSK's path to qualification, allowing them to control their destiny by winning their remaining two games. A PBKS win, however, would intensify the pressure and potentially lead to a Net Run Rate battle.
Jasprit Bumrah coming in as captain a fantastic move: Srikkanth
Kris Srikkanth lauded Jasprit Bumrah's captaincy in Mumbai Indians' win over Punjab Kings. Bumrah's leadership inspired bowlers like Shardul Thakur and Deepak Chahar, who took crucial wickets. The team displayed a strong will to win, with Tilak Varma's explosive batting sealing the chase. Srikkanth highlighted Bumrah's encouraging presence as a key factor in the bowlers' confidence and performance.
Half the harvest gone, Kashmir cherries still rule countrys markets
Fetch Rs 200 per kg despite 50% loss due to erratic weather 300 tonnes to be dispatched next week 25 tonnes to reach Jammu daily Italian variety premium Growers urge crop insurance Abid Bashir Srinagar, May 16: Even as Kashmirs cherry growers grapple with nearly 50 per cent losses due to prolonged cold temperatures and erratic weather conditions, the Valleys famed ruby-red fruit continues to command premium prices in markets across the country, bringing cautious optimism to thousands of orchardists dependent on the crop. With the cherry season gathering momentum, nearly 300 tonnes of premium cherries are expected to be dispatched from Kashmir to various Indian markets beginning next weekthroughrail and road networks. Chairman of the Kashmir Valley Fruit Growers Cum Dealers Association, Bashir Ahmad Basheer,said two railway bogies have already been booked from Srinagar to Jammu to facilitate large-scale transportation of cherries from the Valley. From next week, nearly 25 tonnes of cherries will reach Jammu daily through railway services. Besides rail shipments, truckloads of cherries have already started moving to markets in Delhi, Mumbai, Ahmedabad, Punjab and several other cities, he said. Basheer said Kashmiri cherries continue to enjoy strong demandin marketsacross the country despite the significant decline in production this year.Unfavourable weather conditions, especially prolonged cold during the flowering stage,badlyaffected fruit setting and reduced production by almost 50 per cent. However, the quality of the available produce is excellent, and the demand in markets is very encouraging, he added. Kashmir annually produces around 12,000 to 14,000 metric tonnes of cherries and remains Indias leading cherry-producing region. The fruit is cultivated extensively in Srinagar, Tangmarg, Shopian, Ganderbal, Baramulla and several other areas of the Valley. Growers said Kashmir is known for multiple cherry varieties that fetch premium prices due to their taste, texture and appearance. Among them, the premium Italian variety has emerged as the costliest this season, fetching nearly Rs 200 per kilogram in wholesale markets because of its larger size, sweetness, attractive colour and longer shelf life. The locally popular Awal Number or Number 1 variety is selling at around Rs 100 per kilogram, while the glossy and soft Makhmali variety is fetching between Rs 90 and Rs 100 per kilogram. Buyers from outside Kashmir specifically demand Italian cherries because of their superior quality and shine. Even though the production is less this year, the market rates are comparatively better, said Abdul Rashid Mir, a cherry grower from Tangmarg. Farmers across Kashmir said changing weather patterns are increasingly emerging as a major threat to horticulture, especially delicate crops like cherries and strawberries. This year, the crop suffered because of unusual cold conditions during the flowering stage. Many orchards witnessed poor fruit setting, while continuous rains in some areas further damaged the fruit, said Ghulam Mohammad Bhat, a grower from Shopian. He said the situation has become highly unpredictable over the last few years.Earlier, farmers could estimate the crop well in advance, but now sudden frost, untimely rains, hailstorms and temperature fluctuations aredamaging orchards repeatedly,Bhat added. Another orchardist from Ganderbal, Fayaz Ahmad, said cherries remain one of the most important early-season cash crops for farmers before the apple harvesting season begins later in the year. Cherry gives quick returns to growers. The fruit is harvested in the morning, packed immediately and dispatched to outside markets within hours. Even with lower production, farmers are hopeful that better prices will compensate for some of the losses, he said. Fruit traders at Srinagars Parimpora Mandi said faster rail connectivity ishelping improve transportation and reducedelays for the highly perishable fruit. Cherries are extremely delicate and require quick transportation. Rail movement is proving beneficial because it allows the fruit to reach Jammu and other markets faster and in better condition, said a fruit dealer at the mandi. Growers, however, expressed concern over forecasts of fresh rains in the coming days, saying any further wet weather could affect harvesting and damage the remaining crop. If the rains continue during the peak harvesting period, the fruit can crack and lose quality. Farmers are already under stress because production has fallen sharply this year, said Mushtaq Ahmad, another grower from Baramulla. Horticulture experts and growers have urged the government to strengthen cold storage facilities, introduce climate-resilient farming practices and expand crop insurance schemes to help orchardists cope with mounting weather-related losses. Despite the difficult season, Kashmiri cherries have once again started making their way to markets across India, with traders and consumers eagerly awaiting the Valleys prized summer fruit known for its sweetness, colour and unmatched taste.
Behind Arshdeep's struggles: Punjab Kings discover 'restrictions' in pacer's body
Punjab Kings bowler Arshdeep Singh struggled this IPL season. Physical issues and off-field distractions affected his performance. Team management believes they have found solutions. Singh is now feeling better physically. He needs to regain his form to help Punjab Kings. Leaders like Singh and Iyer must guide the team through this tough phase.
Punjab Kings Shashank Singh fields the ball during a practice session in Dharamshala
INDIAN PREMIER LEAGUE | CONNOLLY BECAME YOUNGEST OVERSEAS IPL CENTURION WITH 107* VS SRH MATCH TODAY RCB VS PBKS AT 3:30 PM | DC VS RR AT 7:30 PM Punjab Kings Shashank Singh fields the ball during a practice session in Dharamshala, on Saturday. (PTI)
SDM arrested in Rs 1.63 cr scam
CHANDIGARH, May 16: A Sub-Divisional Magistrate posted in Punjabs Gurdaspur was on Saturday arrested in connection with the Rs 1.63 crore embezzlement of funds linked to the land acquisition for a national highway project in 2018-2019, police said. Follow the Daily Excelsior channel on WhatsApp Anupreet Kaur, a 2012-batch Punjab Civil Services officer, was held from her from her official residence in Gurdaspur. She was currently posted as SDM, Gurdaspur. She was also holding the charge of the municipal council, [] The post SDM arrested in Rs 1.63 cr scam appeared first on Daily Excelsior .
Shah Shahni Dogri Film shines with Love and Compassion
Ravinder Kaul ravinderkaul07@gmail.com The first Dogri feature film Gallan Hoiyaan Beetiyaan released in the year 1966, raising the hope that, like Punjabi cinema, Dogri films will also become the harbingers of showcasing Dogri language and Dogra culture across the globe. However, these hopes were never fulfilled. The next Dogri film Maa Neyi Mildi came after a gap of 44 years in the year 2010. 60 years after the release of the first feature film, the score of Dogri films is [] The post Shah Shahni Dogri Film shines with Love and Compassion appeared first on Daily Excelsior .
Punjab civic polls: IAS & PCS officers appointed as general observers
IPL 2026: Score Of 200210 Was Par, But We Dropped Too Many Catches, Admits GT Skipper Gill
Kolkata Knight Riders: Kolkata Knight Riders ended Gujarat Titans fivematch winning streak with a 29run victory at Eden Gardens on Saturday, a result that lifted them to sixth place on the points table and kept their playoffs hopes alive. GT skipper Shubman Gill admitted his sides fielding lapses proved costly, including dropping Finn Allen twice as he went on to smash a fiery 93. Looking at the wicket, 200210 was par score, but we dropped too many catches. Pitch was good, the odd one was stopping, but I felt we batted well to get to the score we did. No concerns, but our fielding could've been a lot better. We set a certain standard, and dropping 3 sitters - we didn't deserve to win this one. Looking at it that way, best to have a game like this now than in the Qualifiers. I think rest and recover for a couple of days, travel back to Ahmedabad, see how the wicket is, and then plan accordingly (for the next game), Gill said at the conclusion of the game. KKR are now at sixth spot and behind the Punjab Kings, who are at fourth place. GT, who had thrived in bowlerfriendly conditions during their winning run, were undone by Eden Gardens batting surface and a poor fielding display, with Allens explosive 93 proving to be the difference. KKR captain Ajinkya Rahane lauded his batters for their intent, as they posted a massive 247/2. Very good game, really happy with two points. Amazing to see Allen, Angkrish, and Green's knocks. Credit goes to these batters. Preparation has always been fantastic. Talk was all about taking one game at a time. Intent was amazing. Don't forget they're a quality bowling attack. It was amazing to see batters going out there and dominating. Speaking of bowlers, Rahane lauded Saurabh Dubey and Sunil Narine. It's all about trusting their ability. All these guys have been doing well in the domestic season. Saurabh Dubey played well in the Vidarbha league. When he came here, all the coaches thought he had the talent. Credit to these guys who have been doing well, working hard, it's all about belief and confidence. Makes my job easy when you know Sunil Narine is in the team. Varun was struggling, but credit to him as well. The courage to play with a sore foot, he said. Player of the Match Sunil Narine reflected on his milestone appearance, as his spell of 2-29 ensured GT ended 29 runs short. It comes with hard work. The guys have been training really well, putting in the hard yards, and it's showing. Hope it continues, no matter what the tournament has in store for us. It's all about planning what is in front of you. Every game brings a different challenge. All about trying to win the scenarios and trying not to overthink. Being a senior guy, God has given me the talent and health to play 200; hopefully, I play many more, he said. Player of the Match Sunil Narine reflected on his milestone appearance, as his spell of 2-29 ensured GT ended 29 runs short. It comes with hard work. The guys have been training really well, putting in the hard yards, and it's showing. Hope it continues, no matter what the tournament has in store for us. Also Read: Live Cricket Score I'm not used to the keeping duties; it's taking everything out of me. The score says it all. I thought it was a great surface. Hope we can play on these surfaces every game. They have to kick me out of the nets, I play a lot of balls. Ever since I was a kid, my coach, Abhishek Nayar, has gotten me used to hitting 1000 balls a day. Article Source: IANS
IPL 2026: Allen, Raghuvanshi, Green Pyrotechnics Keep KKR's Hopes Alive With 29-run Win Over GT (ld)
Kolkata Knight Riders: Skipper Shubman Gills fluent 85 was not enough to extend Gujarat Titans winning run as Kolkata Knight Riders secured a 29run victory to halt their opponents fivematch unbeaten streak and keep their own playoff hopes alive in the Indian Premier League (IPL) 2026 at Eden Gardens in Kolkata on Saturday. Finn Allens blistering 93 set the tone for KKR before Angkrish Raghuvanshis careerbest 82 not out and Cameron Greens unbeaten 52 powered the hosts to 247/2, and were also aided by GTs poor fielding display. GTs chase was built around Gills strokefilled 85 off 49 balls, laced with five fours and seven sixes. Jos Buttler also chipped in with 57 off 35 balls, but the dismissal of both batters in quick succession left the chase adrift. Sai Sudharsan returned from a blow to the elbow to compile a fighting 53 not out off 28 balls. Yet GT ended up at 218/4, undone by KKRs disciplined death bowling and a tight spell of 2-29 from Sunil Narine. Chasing a daunting 248, GT began brightly with Sudharsan and Gill adding 42 runs in the first three overs, before the former retired hurt after being struck on the elbow. Nishant Sindhu replaced him but fell cheaply to Sunil Narine, caught at longoff in the spinners 200th IPL appearance. Gill pressed on by carving Matheesha Pathirana, who later went off the field after picking up a hamstring strain, through extra cover and launching Narine and Anukul Roy for successive sixes. Buttler joined in by cutting Varun Chakaravarthy for four and adding steady singles as the partnership grew. Gill looked in supreme touch and reached his fifty off 33 balls and continued to dominate, smashing Varun Chakaravarthy for backtoback sixes and a four. Buttler too found rhythm, carving Tyagi for six and reaching his halfcentury with a diving second run. At 177/1 in 16 overs, GT appeared in contention to complete the chase, needing 71 off the last four overs. But Narine struck the decisive blow when Gill swept straight to Anukul Roy at the ropes. Buttler tried to keep the chase alive by carving boundaries, but sliced to longoff against Saurabh Dubey. Sudharsan returned to complete his innings, reaching a fighting fifty, but the task had grown too steep. Cameron Green closed out the match with a short ball that Tewatia gloved to Angkrish Raghuvanshi, as KKR moved to sixth spot and are just two points behind Punjab Kings, who are at fourth place. Previously, Allen played an absolute blinder - dropped twice on 14 and 33, the New Zealander made GT pay dearly, by hitting four boundaries and ten sixes at a strike-rate of 265.71. The Titans did themselves no favours with sloppy catching and ragged fielding that only added to the carnage unleashed by KKR. Once Allen departed as GT halted the 95-run stand for the second wicket, Raghuvanshi took charge by hitting 82 not out off 44 balls, his highest score in the league, studded with four boundaries and seven sixes. Green provided solid support by sharing an unbroken 108-run stand with Raghuvanshi for the third wicket and helping himself to 52 not out off 28 balls, laced with three fours and four maximums as the runs continued to flow unchecked for KKR. Sent in to bat first, KKR were off to a brisk start as Ajinkya Rahane cleared third man for six. But it was Allen who seized control of the innings, launching into Kagiso Rabada with successive towering sixes after taking two fours off Siraj and racing past 30 inside the powerplay. Rahanes dismissal for 14 to Siraj did little to halt the momentum as Raghuvanshi joined Allen to stitch a fluent partnership. After being given two reprieves, Allen was in imperious touch, punishing Rashid Khan with backtoback sixes and raising a 21ball halfcentury. He continued to toy with the attack, hammering Arshad Khan for three sixes in an over and racing to 93 off just 35 balls. His dismissal of Ravisrinivasan Sai Kishore, caught by Rashid at longon, ended a breathtaking knock but left KKR well placed for a huge score. Raghuvanshi, who had survived a close lbw call earlier, grew in confidence, paddling Rabada for six and unfurling reverse sweeps and lofted drives to keep the scoreboard racing. He reached his seventh IPL fifty and went on to compile his career-best IPL knock, striking boundaries at will and exploiting GTs sloppy fielding. Green provided the late fireworks, smashing Rashid for a straight six and then hammering Rabada and Siraj for boundaries with powerful pulls and drives. He reached his fifty off 26 balls and finished unbeaten to ensure KKR had a fantastic finish, and it was enough at the end to get a win over high-flying GT. Raghuvanshi, who had survived a close lbw call earlier, grew in confidence, paddling Rabada for six and unfurling reverse sweeps and lofted drives to keep the scoreboard racing. He reached his seventh IPL fifty and went on to compile his career-best IPL knock, striking boundaries at will and exploiting GTs sloppy fielding. Also Read: Live Cricket Score Kolkata Knight Riders 247/2 in 20 overs (Finn Allen 93, Angkrish Raghuvanshi 82 not out; R Sai Kishore 1-38, Mohammed Siraj 1-50) beat Gujarat Titans 218/4 in 20 overs (Shubman Gill 85, Jos Buttler 57; Sunil Narine 2-29, Saurabh Dubey 1-23) by 29 runs Article Source: IANS
Punjab reports 283 farm fires, most cases in Ferozepur
Not even single genuine vote to be allowed to be deleted under SIR: Punjab CM
Indian Premier League: Delhi Capitals' assistant coach Ian Bell drew glowing parallels between wicketkeeper-batter KL Rahul and England batting greats Kevin Pietersen and Joe Root, praising the Indian batters relentless work ethic and intelligence in evolving as a modern T20 batter ahead of Sundays Indian Premier League (IPL) 2026 clash against Rajasthan Royals at the Arun Jaitley Stadium. Rahul, who has been the linchpin of DCs misfiring batting line-up this season, has endured a lean patch since smashing a record-breaking, unbeaten 152 against Punjab Kings last month. The elegant right-hander has crossed the 30-run mark just once in his last five innings. Overall, Rahul remains DC's top scorer this season with 477 runs from 12 matches at an average of 43.36 and a strike rate of 178, including three half-centuries and an unbeaten 152. It's been amazing to work with KL, to be honest with you. Again, I didn't have to say too much. He's a smart cricketer. He knows what he needs to do to keep evolving his game. Again, if he wants to get back in the India T20, he knows where that game has gone in the power play and where you have to be. So I think he's a really intelligent cricketer, which, again, as a coach and working alongside. Again, when I've been fortunate enough to play with great players, Kevin Pietersen and Joe Root, they're very similar. They work extremely hard away from the cameras. They know what they're doing. They come to training with a purpose. So he's been really great to work with, really, said Bell in the pre-match press conference. DC will be desperate for Rahul to find his groove as he faces a challenging battle against RRs pace spearhead Jofra Archer. Historically, Rahul enjoys an exceptional record against RR, aggregating 826 runs from 18 innings at an average of 51.62 and a strike rate of 135, featuring eight half-centuries. His last five scores against the Royals read a consistent 75, 38, 76, 58, and 39. I've picked his brains a lot as well, which has been great for me as well. But he's great, again, around the group with the younger batters. But I think for his own game, he knew what he wanted to do coming to this club. We know he can score a volume of runs. But can he then slightly take that more to where the game is going now? I think he's proven to everyone he can do that. Hopefully this is the, like I said, for the next few years, that's where it's going, and who knows where it can go after this, and I think that's the impressive thing. The same is true when you watch Virat as well. I think players who've played so much cricket and get to that stage in their career, if you are willing to improve and get better, I think that shows hunger and desire. KL, as I said, around the group, shows that every day, added Bell, who played 118 Tests and 161 ODIs for England. While Rahul has spearheaded DC batting, Bell emphasised the need for individual ownership within the wider batting order, especially while batting first. I think there's no doubt about the way the game is going in T20 cricket. We've seen the scores this year. I mean, we've managed ourselves to score 265 and then not defend it. So we know where the game's going and plan A is to be ultra aggressive, but we've also seen here in Delhi where the wicket can be a little bit different, and you've got to use different skills. If the ball's turning and it's a bit tacky, then you have to adapt. You've got to be able to play the likes of Narine differently. You've got to find your options as well as using your power game. So I think there's a part of play when the surface isn't absolutely true. But again, I think for us here, we still want to give the guys absolute clarity and license to be as aggressive as possible. We know that you're not going to win T20 cricket anymore by playing safe and building a foundation. But I think the best teams can adapt. I think that's where we have to be, certainly here at home, and we've got to be better at doing that by adapting to when the wicket is really good, to when the wicket maybe is holding a little bit and finding what is a match-winning score if we bat first. Bell also strongly voiced his backing for skipper Axar Patel, who has faced turbulent form this season. Axar has managed just 100 runs from nine batting innings at a disappointing average of 12.5 and a strike rate of 112. Barring a 30-ball 56 against the Punjab Kings, Axar has registered single-digit scores in seven of his other eight outings. Statistically, this is Axar's third-worst season with the bat in tournament history, only slightly ahead of his averages in 2021 (8) and 2014 (10.3). His primary struggle has come against spin, where he averages a meagre 9.5 with a sluggish strike rate of 70, compared to an average of 13.5 and a strike rate of 131 against pace. On the bowling front, Axar has fared better but has lacked his trademark penetration, picking up 10 wickets from 11 innings at an economy rate of 8.10. Furthermore, while he has been restrictive against right-handers this season - yielding seven wickets at an economy of 7.2, he has been taken to the cleaners by left-handed batsmen, conceding runs at an expensive economy rate of 12. I think it's been really important to really support him and get around him. It's not easy - he's an important player not just for this franchise, but for India as well in T20 cricket. As somebody who can bat and field, they're so important to your team. He's obviously disappointed, as more than probably anyone. I know that people on the outside, supporters, want him and individuals like him who work hard at the game. He's desperate to do well for this franchise and for himself as well. It was great to see the way he played the other day. He put the positive option, I think the first boundary, on a seamer-friendly pitch. He advanced down and really took the momentum back to our side in that game, and hopefully, he can finish on a real high. We know what he can do at his best, and we've got to keep supporting him through that, and it happens to all cricketers. We've all been there when, unfortunately, cricket is a tough game, and sometimes you have to ride it; you've got to keep backing yourself. You've got to keep putting yourself out there in pressure situations, and it will all come good. He works hard, is respected and supported by the playing group, and we hope that he can come through. He's a great character in that dressing room, as we know. In all the teams he's played for, he's the kind of person you want in your dressing room, and we want to help him as the leader of that team. Hopefully, the other day was just the start of him finishing on a high at the back end of this competition, explained Bell. Turning his attention to their immediate opponents, RR, Bell openly acknowledged the threat posed by their young batting sensation, Vaibhav Sooryavanshi, branding him the ultimate prized wicket that DC must take out early. Sooryavanshi has amassed 440 runs across 11 innings at an impressive average of 40 and a staggering strike rate of 237, punctuated by two half-centuries and a century. Sooryavanshi currently tops the tournaments six-hitting charts with 40 maximums, leading a high-profile chasing pack that includes Abhishek Sharma (37), Ryan Rickelton (37), Priyansh Arya (32), Mitchell Marsh (31), and Rajat Patidar (31). I don't want to give too much away. I think Munaf said that last time. We're not going to give too many plans away. I mean, he's a fantastic young player, isn't he? The talent is absolutely scary, and we want to get him out early - there's no doubt. I think when you play against Rajasthan Royals, I think he's the prized wicket, and you want to get him out early because you know the damage he can do if he stays with that crease long enough. So the guys would have done a lot of work. I'm sure he's chomping at the bit as well because we got him out early last time, so he'll be desperate to, I suppose, put that right, as all top players want to do. So, it's really important to take him out quickly. I don't want to give too much away. I think Munaf said that last time. We're not going to give too many plans away. I mean, he's a fantastic young player, isn't he? The talent is absolutely scary, and we want to get him out early - there's no doubt. I think when you play against Rajasthan Royals, I think he's the prized wicket, and you want to get him out early because you know the damage he can do if he stays with that crease long enough. Also Read: Live Cricket Score I know Trevor Penney and Kumar Sangakkara well. He's got some amazing people there that can guide him well, and I'm sure it's only a matter of time before we see him with India as well, but he's a scary talent, really. It's amazing to watch. So, we'd love to get him out early tomorrow, but I suppose from a neutral point of view, when he's playing against other teams, it's nice to watch him bat, concluded Bell. Article Source: IANS
IPL 2026: We Cant Win Competitions Being This Inconsistent, Says DC Assistant Coach Bell
Indian Premier League: Delhi Capitals assistant coach Ian Bell admitted that chronic inconsistency on their home turf has plagued their Indian Premier League (IPL) 2026 campaign and that one can't win competitions with those extremes the side has displayed this season. But Bell asserted that DC is highly motivated to finish their home leg on a high note for its fans when they face the Rajasthan Royals at the Arun Jaitley Stadium on Sunday evening. After acing a sensational run-chase against Punjab Kings, DC face a must-win situation against RR to retain their mathematical, albeit bleak, chances of qualifying for the IPL 2026 playoffs. But a defeat will officially eliminate DC from the tournament's Playoffs race. Desperate to finish their home leg on a high, DC will look to arrest a harrowing slump at their base venue, where they havent been able to grasp the varying behaviour of the pitches. Despite kicking off their season with a comfortable home victory against the Mumbai Indians, DC have suffered five consecutive defeats in their backyard and hold a dismal 17 percent win record at home this season. I think just being very inconsistent is one thing. I know there's been a lot of talk about the wicket, but I think, again, you can't use that as an excuse too much. It's the same for both teams. I think we have to accept, and it has been a crazy season for the fact that we scored 265 here, followed that up by being bowled out for 75 - you can't win competitions if you're that inconsistent, and I think we have to accept that reality. I think the guys are working extremely hard, and there's no doubt in front of your home fans that you want to make this a fortress. But we know, I mean, history probably tells, it's not just this season, but in years gone by, it's not been an easy venue to win games for Delhi, so I think that's something that needs to be addressed. We had a really good chat today about that, and we want to finish on a real high here at home, as we did in the last two games. I think it's really important that tomorrow is a performance that people can go away with excited and proud of the team, said Bell in the pre-match press conference. A volatile top-order and a lack of consistency in top-order batting roles have severely hampered DCs ability to maximize the powerplay overs. The franchise's search for a settled combination has seen it experiment extensively at the top. The pairing of KL Rahul and Abhishek Porel was the third different opening combination deployed by DC this season, while the critical number three slot has evolved into a revolving door, with Sahil Parakh becoming the fourth batsman to occupy the position. This frequent shuffling of roles has directly dented the team's ability to gain early momentum. Statistically, DCs opening partnerships this season have yielded 388 runs across their outings at a modest average of 32.3. While the dynamic stands at a healthy strike rate of 161, comprising two half-centuries, one century, and a best partnership of 110, the lack of stability has prevented DC from getting off the blocks consistently. It's, again, a good question and something that's been discussed a lot. You're right - I think when you look at the top four teams at the moment, there's a lot of consistency in the batting lineup, certainly the top four, and the combinations haven't quite worked for us, and it's something probably, over a period of time now, not having that stability in the batting lineup is something that, obviously, we're working towards, and guys have to take those opportunities as well and turn them into matchwinning performances. I suppose if we look statistically, KL's, again, had a fantastic year. He's increased his strike rate, which is what a lot of people have asked him to do. But we need other people to step up as well and be more consistent, and as you said with Ashu (Ashutosh Sharma) as well, we know what he can do. Personally, in this format of the game, you want your most aggressive players out in the park, so it's been great to have him in the team now, and the likes of him and Miller together is a really dangerous thought for any opposition team. So, great that he's playing now, and what I personally look at a lot of the other teams is a lot more stability, but again, I think that's down to players taking their opportunity as well. That's really important as well, not just about selection, but when you get your chance at this level and in any franchise, especially here, you have to grab it with both hands, and I don't think anyone quite yet has made himself undroppable by performance, and I think that's important as well. I think any coaching staff wants to give clarity and confidence in selection, but players have to be able to take the opportunity. We see that, and it's about putting in performances for the franchise of winning games of cricket, explained Bell. Bell insisted the team environment remained positive despite results, adding that the squad's motivation remains simple: playing for a win at home for everyone involved with the team. No, it's been easy. I think when we're representing the Delhi Capitals, we have a responsibility to go out there and put the best performance we have, not just for the individuals in the team, but for the supporters and owners. That's really important as well, not just about selection, but when you get your chance at this level and in any franchise, especially here, you have to grab it with both hands, and I don't think anyone quite yet has made himself undroppable by performance, and I think that's important as well. I think any coaching staff wants to give clarity and confidence in selection, but players have to be able to take the opportunity. We see that, and it's about putting in performances for the franchise of winning games of cricket, explained Bell. Also Read: Live Cricket Score But the important thing is putting in a performance tomorrow, firstly, and just making sure we win the game tomorrow, and it's a good performance, whether we bat first, bowl first, we put in a good performance. We can't control the results, and then we'll move on to the last game, concluded Bell. Article Source: IANS
IPL 2026: Dropped Catches, Dip In Catching Efficiency - Fielding Issues Raise Huge Alarms
Indian Premier League: On the eve of taking on Delhi Capitals at the Arun Jaitley Stadium, the social media accounts of Rajasthan Royals (RR) posted an interesting 20-second clip of its fielders taking catches at practice with both hands and Ravi Bishnoi completing a grab with his right hand. More than the video, the caption caught the eye, as it said Dont drop your catches, along with laughter and folded hand emojis attached. If one were living under a rock, then that line would have been seen as another attempt by RRs social media admins to generate quirky laughter. But if one digs deeper, then that caption also points towards a trend which has been a nagging concern of dropped catches and a dip in catching efficiency, raising huge alarms in the ten-team competition. The cricketers in 2026 are faster, fitter, and more athletic than any generation before them. The way they dive, slide, and leap to complete acrobatic catches would have seemed extraordinary even a decade ago. IPL 2026 is shaping up as the most telling reminder yet that athleticism and catching proficiency are two very different things. The data from CricViz tells the story in cold, unforgiving numbers. After 59 matches in IPL 2026, fielding sides have held 541 catches and dropped 153 - a catching efficiency of 77.9 per cent. Six of the 10 franchises are operating below the 80 per cent threshold. The scale of the problem is not lost on the game's insiders, and its consequences in a format where 200-plus totals are now routine, and the Impact Sub rule has tilted the balance further toward batters have been severe. No team better illustrates the crisis than the Delhi Capitals. With a catching efficiency of just 65.4 per cent - the worst in the competition - DC have squandered 19 out of 36 chances. Think of how many times Director of Cricket Venugopal Rao was left ruing about dropped catches costing them crucial runs after losing matches. Sunrisers Hyderabad have dropped 24 catches the most by any side this season but their catching efficiency percentage is slightly better at 72.7 percent. At the other end of the spectrum, Kolkata Knight Riders lead the standings by holding 56 catches and dropping just eight chances at a healthy 87.5 per cent in ten matches and have conceded only one difficult drop all season. Rajasthan Royals (83.8 percent), Lucknow Super Giants (82.5 percent), Gujarat Titans (82 percent), and Royal Challengers Bengaluru (81.6 percent) have also shown what a cohesive fielding unit can achieve. Punjab Kings, with a catching efficiency percentage of 73.5, have encapsulated the paradox of the modern fielding unit - captain Shreyas Iyer produced one of the catches of the tournament - a breathtaking mid-air relay against the Mumbai Indians to dismiss Hardik Pandya. Holding his balance in flight, Iyer tossed the ball back to teammate Xavier Bartlett before crossing the boundary rope. It was the kind of moment that makes highlight reels for years. Yet Iyer's brilliance has not been reflected in the unit around him his teammate Shashank Singh has had a tournament to forget in fielding by dropping six catches, including spilling three chances in a single innings against Lucknow Super Giants. As per CricViz data since 2020, overall catches have grown significantly from 459 in 2020 to a peak of 645 in 2024, suggesting that high-scoring matches have occurred in the tournament. The catching percentage peaked in 2023 at 81.5 percent, but has declined since then, to 75 percent in 2025 and 77.9 percent so far in 2026. Drops have risen sharply - from 129 in 2020 to hitting a peak of 207 in 2025, and with 153 dropped catches in 59 matches, IPL 2026 is on pace to reach a similarly high metric. Raw drop counts tell only part of the story. Cricket-21's runs-saved and runs-missed metrics put a harder number on the damage, and the figures are sobering. Naman Dhirs eight drops have not merely handed batters second lives, but cost Mumbai Indians 27 runs - the highest by any individual fielder in IPL 2026. Shashanks struggles in fielding acquire an even grimmer dimension through this lens: his dropped catches have cost Punjab Kings an estimated 22 runs in the field this season. What also makes for a grim reading is that not a single one of Shashanks six drops are classified as a difficult chance. According to Cricket-21 data, all of them were classified as easy or medium, as Shashanks catch efficiency stands at a near-indefensible 14.3 per cent. SRH have leaked 128 runs through fielding lapses this season - the worst figure of any franchise - while saving only 57. That net deficit of 71 runs is not an abstraction - in a format where margins between winning and losing a game can be as thin as 10 or 15 runs, it is the difference between finishing at the top spot and ending up at number four. Chennai Super Kings compound the picture further with 16 missed run-out opportunities, the most for any side. LSG, despite being at the bottom of the points table, emerges as the standout team when runs saved are the currency. Their fielders have saved 133 runs this season, the most for any franchise. In terms of individual catching, by combining all keepers and fielders, Jos Buttler leads outright with 17 catches. Jitesh Sharma stands out for efficiency - 12 catches and a stellar percentage of 92.3. Rishabh Pant has saved 26 runs, which makes him the most valuable fielder on either side this season, while Nicholas Pooran, Anukul Roy, Pathum Nissanka, Dhruv Jurel, and Noor Ahmad have saved 17 runs. Those inside the system are not surprised to see fielding and catching being an issue in IPL 2026. A senior fielding coach, who has worked at the highest level, spoke to IANS on the condition of anonymity on the roots of the malaise in catching and fielding. There are many reasons behind it: number one, hard hands. Number two, they don't get under the ball. Instead, they try to reach out to the ball. Number three, they want to make it a little glamorous. I havent seen someone running, nicely pausing, and taking a catch. Instead, someone has run and made a slide and taken the catch. But what I can see is, the easy catch, they make it look difficult and glamorous, and that's maybe one reason why so many dropped catches are happening on the field, said the fielding coach. The coach did not spare the culture around practice. Whatever is there has to be caught; it's simple. One doesn't have to think too much. It should be treated like a routine - waking up in the morning, taking a bath, and having breakfast. It should be deeply embedded in the routine of all players so that those chances arent missed. Another fielding coach, a regular in the cricketing circuit, told IANS that pressure and constant travel are also leading to catches being dropped regularly. Everyones talking about dropped catches, and rightly so, as fielding decides the outcome of games. But sometimes we forget that constant travel and the high pressure of playing matches are always around. It needs to be seen if players are getting enough sleep, and whether they are fresh mentally and physically for giving it their all on match day? As per my view, most catches are going down on the square boundaries. Are those exact-match scenarios being replicated in practice by coaches? Also, are your best fielders in the hot zones on match days? We also saw that new LED lights were installed in Jaipur, which took some time for RR fielders to adjust. Another fielding coach, a regular in the cricketing circuit, told IANS that pressure and constant travel are also leading to catches being dropped regularly. Everyones talking about dropped catches, and rightly so, as fielding decides the outcome of games. But sometimes we forget that constant travel and the high pressure of playing matches are always around. Also Read: Live Cricket Score The athleticism is not in doubt, as the IPL has always showcased that. The question heading into the business end of the season is a simpler and older one: when the ball comes to you, do you hold it? Right now, for far too many players and teams in IPL 2026, the answer is no. One can just hope that teams like RR will hope that the efforts done in practice and showcased on social media are executed on the field to arrest the great fielding and catching slide. Article Source: IANS
'Have successful teams ever done this?': Ashwins explosive take on Punjab Kings
Ravichandran Ashwin questions Punjab Kings' decision to split home matches across two venues in IPL 2026, suggesting the venue changes disrupted their rhythm and contributed to a five-match losing streak. He highlights that successful franchises maintain consistency with a single home ground, impacting team preparation and performance, especially when batting first at Dharamsala.
IPL 2026: Omkar Salvi Backs Bhuvneshwars Experience And Adaptability Ahead Of Punjab Kings Clash
Assistant Coach Omkar Salvi: Royal Challengers Bengaluru (RCB) Assistant Coach Omkar Salvi credited Bhuvneshwar Kumars experience, preparation, and understanding of his own game as key factors behind the pacers strong campaign in the Indian Premier League (IPL) 2026 and emerging as a key player in the team's surge to the top of the standings. Ahead of RCBs away fixture against Punjab Kings on Sunday afternoon, Bhuvneshwar Kumar currently holds the Purple Cap with 22 wickets in 12 innings. Speaking on the former India pacer's contribution to the team, Salvi said, He did really well last season too. The role he was playing did exceptionally well for us. This season, he is in a different role, and everyone knows what a world-class bowler he is and the skills he possesses. He is just enjoying his bowling and expressing himself freely. Salvi also spoke about how Bhuvneshwar has adapted his bowling according to different phases of the innings. Every bowler has their own strengths and teams plan according to that, he said. Bhuvi is bowling with the new ball, so naturally, he wants to explore the swing. At the death as well, he has been using his variations effectively. It depends on which phase the bowler is operating in. He added that the veteran seamers preparation and fitness work ahead of the season had also contributed significantly to his performance. Looking at the experience Bhuvneshwar Kumar has, he understands his body really well, Salvi said. He knows the fitness components he needs to work on, and he has worked religiously on them. That is reflected in his bowling. Every bowler has their own strengths and teams plan according to that, he said. Bhuvi is bowling with the new ball, so naturally, he wants to explore the swing. At the death as well, he has been using his variations effectively. It depends on which phase the bowler is operating in. Also Read: Live Cricket Score Salvi also noted Jacob Bethells adaptability in the batting unit, backing the youngsters ability to perform in different situations. Bethell has proved himself on the world stage and in this format he is a world-class player, Salvi said. It doesnt matter which position he bats in. He is a mature player who adapts himself according to the situation, and we have seen him perform. Article Source: IANS
Punjab Kings co-owner Mohit Burman believes the recent winning bids for two IPL franchises worth billions of dollars will have a positive impact on the next media rights cycle and an increase of 20-30 percent will not surprise him
20-30 percent increase in IPL media rights won't be surprising: Punjab Kings co-owner Mohit Burman
As IPL franchise valuations skyrocket, they are aligning with the elite global sports leagues, signaling a promising shift in the landscape. Forecasts indicate a substantial 20-30% increase in media rights valuation for the next term.
Handcuffed Inmate Attacks Cop, Tries To Flee In Punjab, Shot Dead: Police
A jail inmate was shot dead after he allegedly attacked an asthmatic police constable with a sharp-edged weapon and attempted to escape custody outside a hospital here on Saturday, police said.
New Delhi , May 16 : Star batter Virat Kohli opened up on the emotional moment when Royal Challengers Bengaluru finally ended their 18-year wait for an Indian Premier League (IPL) title, saying the feeling of winning the trophy after years of heartbreak was far more special than it would have been in the franchises early years. RCB lifted their maiden IPL crown in 2025 after defeating Punjab Kings in the final, ending years of disappointment and near misses for one of the leagues most followed franchises. Kohli, who has represented the Bengaluru franchise since the inaugural IPL season in 2008, was visibly emotional after the historic triumph. Speaking on the RCB Podcast, Kohli recalled the emotions he experienced during the closing moments of the final when pacer Josh Hazlewood bowled the last over with PBKS needing 29 runs.I felt very thankful, and I feel grateful every day of my life, to be honest. I have nothing to complain about. But that night, especially, and I still say its very difficult to explain to people in words how I felt in the last four balls of the last over, Kohli said.When you see from the outside what has happened to the franchise, how RCB has been looked at for so many years as a big team, big franchise thats never won, you know, the almost champions, the ones that have come close but never really won the trophy. And for that pressure to build over so many years, like season after season, and theres one thing to observe it, and theres one thing to live it. And I have lived through all of those seasons, he added. Reflecting on why the triumph felt uniquely special, Kohli admitted the prolonged wait made the achievement even more meaningful.I can with absolute honesty and clarity say that it wouldnt have been five per cent of the feeling I had, had we won it in the earlier years. And the accumulation of all that stress and all that pressure. And for it to happen after 18 years, there couldnt have been a better experience for me in my cricketing journey, apart from all the other things that Ive experienced playing for India as well. This was very, very special, the batter said.Kohli has been the face of the franchise for nearly two decades and remains the highest run-scorer in IPL history with 9,145 runs, including a record nine centuries in the tournament. The former RCB captain reflected on his long journey with the franchise and the trust shown in him during a crucial phase of his career when he was the only retained player for Bengaluru ahead of the 2011 season.I started my journey with RCB very young, as everyone knows. Then I was retained at a very important juncture in my career, to be fair, with the conversation back and forth. RCB agreed to the perspective I had for my own career, for my own game, because I was also playing for India. They showed trust in me. I was the only retained player in 2011. And they kind of built the team around, he said. Kohli also spoke about the emotional attachment several legendary overseas players developed with the franchise, mentioning icons like AB de Villiers and Chris Gayle.Then the involvement of like AB, Chris Gayle, all the iconic players that have played for so many years, very naturally, they also started feeling all those pressures and all the expectations. And hence, the care comes from the fact that when you have kind of given so much of yourself, you know, to one team, because its demanding so much out of you, to be honest, like the expectations have been sky high always. So when people give so much of their own being to something, there is a very genuine and natural care and an emotional connection, Kohli stated. He further described how the franchise and its fanbase impacted players deeply over the years.I felt that impact probably more than anyone over the course of 18 years, till the last year we won the trophy. And I think all those emotions, all those feelings came out in a form of just being on my knees and just holding my hands and saying, thank you, that I could experience this before I stopped playing, he said. RCB, the defending IPL champions, are currently enjoying another strong campaign in the 2026 season. The Bengaluru side sits at the top of the points table with eight wins from 12 matches, while Kohli has once again led from the front with 484 runs at an average of 53.78 and a strike rate of 165. (ANI)
Aay after J&K Police chief Nalin Prabhat warned Dubai-based Pakistani gangster-turned-terrorist Shahzad Bhatti, security agencies launched surveillance of several notorious gangsters in Jammu. The move follows the arrest of a Jammu resident in Punjab for allegedly assisting Bhatti's network involved in narcotics smuggling, arms procurement and terror financing.
Modi asks people to avoid foreign travels but goes on trips himself: Manns jibe at PM
CHANDIGARH, May 16:Punjab Chief Minister Bhagwant Mann on Saturday slammed Prime Minister Narendra Modi over his appeal to people to postpone foreign travels when he has not stopped going abroad himself. Amid the crisis in West Asia, Modi has called for judicious use of fuel, postponing gold purchases and foreign travel. He also urged using metro rail services in cities, carpooling, increased use of electric vehicles and working from home to conserve foreign exchange. Speaking to reporters here, Mann said, [] The post Modi asks people to avoid foreign travels but goes on trips himself: Manns jibe at PM appeared first on Daily Excelsior .
Is CSK in trouble after its loss against LSG? | IPL Show 2026
In this episode, we dissect what went wrong for the Chennai Super Kings. Kartik Sharmas fine knock and how Anshul Kamboj and the rest of the bowlers were taken apart by the Mitchell Marsh storm. Also, we discuss about Punjab Kings fifth consecutive loss and how crucial is tonights game between KKR and GT and how it changes the points table in the race to the PlayOffs.
Rohit Sharma did not shy away from a self-deprecating joke during Mumbai Indians' team talk after their win over Punjab Kings.
IPL 2026: When And Where To Watch PBKS Vs RCB, Know All Details
Himachal Pradesh Cricket Association Stadium: Punjab Kings (PBKS) will clash with defending champions Royal Challengers Bengaluru (RCB) in the 61st match of the Indian Premier League (IPL) 2026 at the Himachal Pradesh Cricket Association (HPCA) Stadium on Sunday. Punjab began their campaign in dominant fashion, winning six of their opening seven matches and emerging as one of the strongest sides in the tournament. However, their momentum has faded in recent weeks, with Shreyas lyer's men suffering five consecutive defeats. As the playoff battle heats up, PBKS will be desperate to halt the slide and strengthen their chances of securing a top-four finish. PBKS are currently placed at fourth position in the points table with 13 points in 12 matches. The Royal Challengers Bengaluru have been one of the best teams in IPL 2026, winning eight of their 12 matches so far. They are almost through to the playoffs and will now look to secure a top-two finish with a win against the Kings. RCB are coming into this match with confidence after beating the Kolkata Knight Riders, thanks to a brilliant century from Virat Kohli. The finalists of IPL 2025 will face each other for the first time this season. Last time they met, RCB came out on top and later won the title. With both teams in very different situations this season, this match promises to be an exciting contest between two strong sides. PBKS and RCB have faced each other 37 times in the IPL so far. RCB holds a slight edge with 19 wins, while PBKS have won 18 matches. There have been no ties or no results between the two teams. Their first meeting came on May 5, 2008, when PBKS secured the victory. The most recent clash was on June 3, 2025, with RCB coming out on top. When: Sunday, May 17, 3:30 PM IST Where: Himachal Pradesh Cricket Association Stadium, Dharamshala Where to watch: The PBKS vs RCB match will be broadcast on Star Sports channels, with JioHotstar live-streaming the game. Squads: Where to watch: The PBKS vs RCB match will be broadcast on Star Sports channels, with JioHotstar live-streaming the game. Also Read: Live Cricket Score Royal Challengers Bengaluru: Rajat Patidar (captain), Virat Kohli, Tim David, Jacob Bethell, Romario Shepherd, Josh Hazlewood, Nuwan Thushara, Devdutt Padikkal, Jitesh Sharma (wicketkeeper), Krunal Pandya, Rasikh Dar, Bhuvneshwar Kumar, Jordan Cox, Suyash Sharma, Venkatesh lyer, Swapnil Singh, Jacob Duffy, Kanishk Chouhan, Abhinandan Singh, Mangesh Yadav, Phil Salt, Satvik Deswal, Vicky Ostwal, Vihaan Malhotra. Article Source: IANS
It's Wrong: R Ashwin Exposes Punjab Kings Owners' Call That Could Lead To Team's Elimination
R Ashwin hit the nail on the head as he slammed the IPL organisers for forcing Punjab Kings to adapt to an unfair home schedule in the 2026 season.
Refreshed Rajasthan Royals: A rejuvenated Rajasthan Royals will look to reclaim their early-season momentum and solidify their ambitions for entering the playoffs when they take on Delhi Capitals in a must-win IPL 2026 clash at the Arun Jaitley Stadium on Sunday evening. RR suffering five defeats in their last seven outings has sparked fears of them entering a chronic second-half wobble, a trend that proved fatal for the franchise in the last two seasons. The Riyan Parag-led side, which once looked invincible after four successive wins, now finds itself on a slippery slope. With long gap between their fixtures, RR have tumbled to fifth spot after being at third place with 12 points just a fortnight ago. All of this has left them in a desperate scrap for survival in the race to playoffs. The good news for RR is that their opponents DC are in no better shape, especially at home. Axar Patel-led DC are carrying the worst net run rate among playoffs aspirants and need a win to stay mathematically alive. But a defeat on Sunday officially ends their campaign. RR will firmly lean on teenaged opener Vaibhav Sooryavanshi to set the tone. With 440 runs this season and a staggering strike rate of 237, Sooryavanshis ability to dominate the powerplay - where he has already hit 30 sixes - will be central to RRs batting approach at the venue with short square boundaries. But Sooryavanshi will have to survive a stern examination against DCs pace spearhead Mitchell Starc. Left-handed Sooryavanshi has feasted on pace in the tournament - 32 of his 40 sixes have come against fast bowlers. Starc took three wickets in the reverse fixture against RR, but that was a different pitch in Jaipur and Sundays game will demand more from him. Alongside Sooryavanshi, Yashasvi Jaiswal needs to rediscover his early-season authority. After two fifties in his first four outings, Jaiswal has managed just 132 runs in seven innings since, averaging only 18.9. Two of Jaiswals dismissals have off short balls from pacers. His response to this challenge will also define RR's powerplay fortunes. Dhruv Jurel started brilliantly but has averaged under 19.7 in his last seven innings. His vulnerability against spin - averaging 17.6 against wrist spin this season and being dismissed five times by them - opens a door for Axar, Vipraj Nigam or an off-colour Kuldeep Yadav to take him out quickly. The middle order has been RR's persistent headache captain Riyan Parag has averaged just 23 and his one good knock ironically came against DC, when he cracked 90 in Jaipur. Shimron Hetmyer has been a shadow of his blistering self, averaging 13 at a strike rate of 113. RRs finishing touches have largely been carried by Donovan Ferreira, who has been outstanding in the slog overs - amassing 98 runs at a strike rate of 265 in overs 17-20. Shubham Dubey and Ravindra Jadeja have chipped in with the bat, but RR needs their middle order to click collectively. With the ball, RR will need Jofra Archer to return to his best self. The England pacer took 13 wickets in his first eight outings, but in the last three games, Archer has picked just two wickets at 12 runs per over. RR's domestic pace attack has also been on the expensive side, as has overseas pacer Nandre Burger. Tushar Deshpande is leaking at 12.1 runs per over, while Sandeep Sharma is not far behind at 10.9 and Brijesh Sharma has gone for more than 10 runs per over in five out of nine outings. With Jadeja being steady with the ball in the middle overs, it will be interesting to see whether RR persist with Yash Raj Punja or bring back Ravi Bishnoi. Meanwhile, DC will be looking to end their dismal run at home on a high. Their batting hopes rest heavily on KL Rahul, who, despite four successive low scores, boasts of a formidable record against RR with an average of 51.6. He will face a stern test against Archer, who has dismissed him three times in T20s. While DCs top order has lacked consistency and Tristan Stubbs has had an up and down season, their finishers David Miller and Ashutosh Sharma have been clinical with strike-rates of 230 and 218 respectively in the final four overs. Rahul and Miller have handled Jadeja well in the past, but Axar has been vulnerable in batting against quality spin this season - averaging just 12.5. The all-round returns of Madhav Tiwari and Auqib Nabi against Punjab Kings were an encouraging subplot DC will hope to build on. In all, the equation remains stiff for both teams. DC must find a way to break their five-match losing streak at home or officially bow out of the competition. Meanwhile, RR will need to arrest their familiar secondhalf slide or risk being engulfed by it once again, as another defeat will make their path to playoffs significantly tougher. When: Sunday, May 17, 7:30 PM 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 Rajasthan Royals: Riyan Parag (captain), Dhruv Jurel (wk), Vaibhav Sooryavanshi, Yashasvi Jaiswal, Ravindra Jadeja, Donovan Ferreira, Brijesh Sharma, Jofra Archer, Shimron Hetmyer, Shubham Dubey, Dasun Shanaka, Nandre Burger, Ravi Bishnoi, Sandeep Sharma Lhuan-Dre Pretorius, Ravi Singh, Aman Rao Perala, Adam Milne, Kuldeep Sen, and Kwena Maphaka. Article Source: IANS
RCB Out To Seal Play-Off Berth, Punjab Kings To Arrest Freefall
Royal Challengers Bengaluru would look to exploit vulnerabilities of a profligate Punjab Kings bowling line up to seal a play-off berth in the Indian Premier League in Dharamsala on Sunday.
Weather Alert Issued for 15 States in India
Mumbai, May 16: The India Meteorological Department (IMD) has issued a warning for heavy rainfall and thunderstorms across 15 states, including Uttar Pradesh, Bihar, and Punjab. The department has advised residents to exercise extreme caution during this period. The IMD has indicated that significant weather changes are expected in various parts of the country on ... Read more Weather Alert Issued for 15 States in India
IMD Issues Rain and Storm Alerts for 15 States in India
New Delhi, May 16: The India Meteorological Department (IMD) has issued alerts for heavy rainfall and storms across 15 states, including Uttar Pradesh, Bihar, and Punjab. Residents are advised to exercise extreme caution during this period. The IMD warned of significant weather changes on May 16, with winds expected to reach speeds of 80 to ... Read more IMD Issues Rain and Storm Alerts for 15 States in India
In-form Iyer's numbers stand tall, but will they carry PBKS into playoffs?
Shreyas Iyer's stellar IPL-2026 campaign, marked by consistent middle-order batting and composed chases, has positioned him for a potential return to the Indian T20I squad. Despite Punjab Kings' recent struggles, Iyer's individual performance, including five half-centuries, highlights his evolution as a reliable finisher and leader.
Two Indian-Origin Men Arrested In Canada Over Shooting, Extortion Probe
Canadian authorities are facing growing pressure over organized crime networks targeting the South Asian community after two Indian nationals from Punjab were arrested in connection with a shooting and alleged extortion operation in British Columbia.

