Date & Venue
December 16, 2025 Abu Dhabi, UAE
Total Purse
237.55 Cr
Retentions
173
77
Players Sold
29
Overseas Sold
215.45 Cr
Amount Spent
Marquee Batsmen
Pathum Nissanka
Base Price
75 Lac
Final Price
4.00 Cr
Team
Akshat Raghuwanshi
Base Price
30 Lac
Final Price
2.20 Cr
Team
David Miller
Base Price
2 Cr
Final Price
2 Cr
Team
Rahul Tripathi
Base Price
75.00 Lac
Final Price
75.00 Lac
Team
Prithvi Shaw
Base Price
75.00 Lac
Final Price
75.00 Lac
Team
Marquee Bowlers
Kartik Sharma
Base Price
30 Lac
Final Price
14.20 Cr
Team
Mustafizur Rahman
Base Price
2 Cr
Final Price
9.20 Cr
Team
Matheesha Pathirana
Base Price
2 Cr
Final Price
18.00 Cr
Team
Marquee All-Rounders
Prashant Veer
Base Price
30 Lac
Final Price
14.20 Cr
Team
Liam Livingstone
Base Price
2 Cr
Final Price
13 Cr
Team
Cameron Green
Base Price
2 Cr
Final Price
25.20 Cr
Team
Auction News & Updates
IPL Matches in Australia? Discussions Begin as BBL Expands into India
Discussions have reportedly begun between Cricket Australia and the Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI) regarding the possibility of hosting Indian Premier League matches in Australia for the first time . The proposal emerges as a reciprocal gesture following Cricket Australia's landmark decision to stage the 2026-27 Big Bash League season opener in Chennai — the first BBL match ever played outside Australia .What Has Been ConfirmedA Cricket Australia spokesperson has publicly confirmed the governing body's openness to the idea. "Australian Cricket works collaboratively with all our ICC partners including India for the good of the game... We don't rule out the possibility of an IPL or Indian bilateral game being played in Australia at some stage" .This represents Cricket Australia's clearest public indication yet that it sees scope for expanding its partnership with the BCCI beyond bilateral cricket.What Remains UnconfirmedCrucially, no formal proposal has been made to the BCCI, and no agreement is in place . The discussions remain exploratory. As one report notes, "the entire venture remains contingent on the BCCI's willingness to export even a single match from its crown jewel" .Sources familiar with the private discussions told the Sydney Morning Herald that Cricket Australia had extended an "open invitation" to the BCCI, but no formal communication has been received by the Indian board .Adelaide Oval Emerges as FrontrunnerAdelaide Oval has reportedly emerged as the preferred venue if the proposal advances . The South Australian Cricket Association, led by chairman Will Rayner and Adelaide Oval chairman Jamie Briggs, has engaged multiple stakeholders regarding the possibility .Officials at the ground believe the arena could be converted from a cricket field to an AFL surface in as little as 48 hours, opening a window for a fixture in late March — timing that would align neatly with the start of the IPL season .The BBL Chennai Opener: The CatalystThe proposal follows the confirmed BBL season opener at Chennai's MA Chidambaram Stadium on December 12, where Melbourne Renegades will face Perth Scorchers . The fixture was unveiled by Prime Ministers Narendra Modi and Anthony Albanese during a joint visit to the MCG .Cricket Australia hopes the Chennai opener can become an annual event, creating a regular exchange between the two competitions rather than a one-off occasion .Historical Context: IPL OverseasThe IPL has previously been staged outside India on four occasions :2009 — Entire season in South Africa due to security concerns during general elections2014 — First 20 matches in the UAE, also due to elections2020 — Entire season in the UAE during the COVID-19 pandemic2021 — Remainder of the season in the UAE after a COVID-19 mid-season haltAustralia has never hosted an IPL match, making this proposal historically significant.Broader ImplicationsThe collaboration extends beyond cricket. The BBL Chennai fixture serves as the centerpiece for the "G'day Namaste" initiative — a series of business, trade, arts, and cultural events designed to strengthen commercial and cultural ties between the two nations .Broadcast experts believe cross-border scheduling could unlock unprecedented commercial value, increasing the BBL's footprint in the Indian market while amplifying the IPL's popularity in Australia . Some hope sustained success could even pave the way for a revival of the Champions League T20 .Key Takeaway: Discussions exist and Cricket Australia is publicly open to the idea, but no formal proposal has been submitted to the BCCI. This remains an aspiration until the Indian board gives its approval.
Yuvraj Singh To Join Delhi Capitals' Coaching Staff: Report
Former India all-rounder Yuvraj Singh is set to join the Delhi Capitals coaching setup for IPL 2027 in what would be his first formal coaching assignment in the league . According to The Times of India, former India captain Sourav Ganguly will take over the franchise's coaching structure and specifically wants Yuvraj to be part of his team .Status: Reported — Not Yet Officially ConfirmedNo official announcement has been made by Delhi Capitals, JSW Sports, or the BCCI regarding either appointment. Both developments remain in the "reported" stage, with multiple media outlets citing sources close to the franchise .The Source of the ReportThe initial report, published by The Times of India, cited "a senior DC official" who confirmed Yuvraj's impending role . This has since been corroborated by ESPNcricinfo, which reported that "it is understood that while Ganguly will be named head coach, Yuvraj will be signed up as the batting coach" . An IPL source told PTI: "Sourav Ganguly will take over as Director of Cricket and Yuvraj will join as the batting coach" .Key Attribution:The Times of India — Original exclusive reportESPNcricinfo — Confirmed independently with sourcesPTI — Source familiar with the developmentThe Ownership Context: Why This Is Happening NowThe changes are driven by Delhi Capitals' unique ownership arrangement. GMR Group and JSW Group co-own the franchise with a 50-50 stake, alternating operational control every two years . GMR's two-year tenure ended with Delhi finishing sixth in IPL 2026 . With JSW now set to take over for the 2027-28 cycle, Parth Jindal, JSW's chairman, is expected to appoint Ganguly to lead the cricketing operations .Ganguly has been deeply involved with JSW's cricket properties since 2024, serving as Director of Cricket for JSW Sports, overseeing Delhi Capitals (men's and women's), and Pretoria Capitals in SA20 . He also led Pretoria Capitals to the SA20 final as head coach .Coaching Restructuring: Who Stays, Who GoesAccording to reports, the existing coaching staff appointed by GMR — head coach Hemang Badani, team director Venugopal Rao, and bowling coach Munaf Patel — are expected to make way for the new leadership unit when JSW takes control . An IPL source told PTI: "There will be complete overhaul of coaching staff in Delhi Capitals as JSW will be running the management for the 2027-28 seasons as per agreement" .Yuvraj's First Formal Coaching RoleFor Yuvraj, this would mark his first official coaching role in the IPL. While he has not been part of a formal coaching setup previously, he has mentored several players, including Abhishek Sharma, Prabhsimran Singh, Abdul Samad, Sanju Samson, Rishabh Pant, and Priyansh Arya . Multiple franchises have followed his work with young cricketers, particularly the impact he has had on Abhishek Sharma's career .A well-placed source told The Times of India: "Who wouldn't want a Yuvraj Singh in the dugout? Many of his former teammates, including Ashish Nehra, Zaheer Khan, and Virender Sehwag, have had coaching stints in the IPL. Yuvraj may be a little late to the party, but he has spent considerable time working with youngsters and understanding the demands of the role" .The same source added: "He doesn't just train players; he mentors them. It's not limited to phone calls or virtual sessions. He spends hours on the ground, often standing behind the nets and working under the sun alongside his players. It's a genuinely hands-on approach that has benefited numerous cricketers" .Dual Roles: Yuvraj's Business Interests and CoachingYuvraj runs Prolithic, a talent agency that represents several IPL stars, including Abhishek Sharma and Prabhsimran Singh . If he joins DC's coaching staff, questions remain about how these interests will align. However, Ganguly had a similar dual role previously — overseeing coaching while also serving as Director of Cricket for JSW . The franchise's management structure may evolve to accommodate Yuvraj's existing commitments.What Ganguly and Yuvraj Bring to the TableGanguly has had a long relationship with Delhi Capitals, serving as mentor in 2019 before his BCCI presidency . He returned to the franchise as Director of Cricket at JSW Sports in 2024 . His experience as a leader and tactical mind, combined with his recent head coach stint at Pretoria Capitals, makes him a natural fit to lead the reset.Yuvraj, a double World Cup winner (2007 T20 World Cup, 2011 ODI World Cup) and Player of the Tournament in both, brings unmatched big-match experience . His presence in the dugout would provide invaluable mentorship to younger batters and stability to a franchise still searching for its first IPL title.Reaction: Mixed Signals from Former PlayersAB de Villiers, while acknowledging the potential impact of the Ganguly-Yuvraj duo, criticized Delhi's "wishy-washy and confusing" ownership model, questioning the constant flux in coaching staff ."I feel it is a bit wishy-washy, doing this whole ownership change, the coaching staff comes and goes, it's really difficult for players to react to that and have a positive mindset with all these changes taking place," de Villiers told a media outlet .Official Word AwaitedThe franchise has not issued any official statement confirming the appointments. CEO Kasi Viswanathan and whole-time director Rupa Gurunath, who led the search for Stephen Fleming's successor at CSK, are not involved in DC's decisions. For Delhi Capitals, the final decision rests with Parth Jindal and the JSW leadership, in consultation with Ganguly.An official announcement is expected after the formal handover of operational control from GMR to JSW. The new coaching structure will then shape DC's strategy for the IPL 2027 season, including player retentions, the auction, and potentially the captaincy — with KL Rahul emerging as a strong candidate, while Rishabh Pant has already been traded back to the franchise .
Josh Hazlewood vs Mohammed Siraj: Comparing Their Numbers After 51 IPL Matches Ahead of the IPL 2026 Final
Josh Hazlewood vs Mohammed Siraj: Comparing Their Stats After 51 Matches Ahead of the IPL 2026 FinalThe IPL 2026 final is set to feature some of the world's best cricketers, and among them, two fast bowlers stand out for their consistency and match-winning abilities: Josh Hazlewood and Mohammed Siraj.Both pacers have played crucial roles for their respective franchises over the years. Known for their ability to strike with the new ball, maintain pressure during the middle overs, and deliver under pressure at the death, Hazlewood and Siraj have established themselves as two of the most reliable fast bowlers in T20 cricket.As the IPL 2026 final approaches, it is worth comparing their records after 51 IPL matches to understand who has had the greater impact.Josh Hazlewood's IPL JourneyHazlewood entered the IPL with a reputation as one of the world's premier Test bowlers. Over time, he successfully adapted his skills to the T20 format, using his height, bounce, and impeccable line and length to trouble batters.One of Hazlewood's biggest strengths is consistency. Unlike many T20 bowlers who rely heavily on variations, the Australian pacer often succeeds through accuracy and disciplined bowling.Across his IPL career, Hazlewood has delivered numerous match-winning spells, particularly in high-pressure situations. His ability to take wickets in the powerplay and restrict runs during crucial phases has made him a valuable asset.Mohammed Siraj's Rise in the IPLSiraj's IPL journey has been one of perseverance and growth. After initial struggles, the Indian speedster transformed himself into one of the most dependable bowlers in the tournament.His aggressive mindset, ability to swing the new ball, and improved control have helped him become a key performer. Siraj is particularly effective in the powerplay, where his movement off the seam often creates early breakthroughs.Over the years, he has also improved significantly in death-over bowling, making him a complete T20 fast bowler.Statistical Comparison After 51 MatchesWhile exact numbers may vary depending on the stage of IPL 2026, the comparison highlights several interesting trends:WicketsHazlewood has maintained an impressive wicket-taking rate.Siraj has consistently picked up wickets against top-order batters.Economy RateHazlewood generally enjoys a superior economy rate due to his accuracy.Siraj's attacking approach occasionally results in higher run concessions but also more breakthroughs.Bowling AverageHazlewood's disciplined style often translates into a strong bowling average.Siraj's average reflects his role as an attacking wicket-taker.Strike RateBoth bowlers have maintained competitive strike rates.Hazlewood's ability to force mistakes through relentless pressure remains one of his biggest strengths.Who Could Make the Difference in the Final?The IPL final often comes down to key moments, and both bowlers are capable of producing match-defining performances.Hazlewood's calm approach and ability to execute plans under pressure make him a dangerous opponent. Meanwhile, Siraj's energy, aggression, and knack for picking up crucial wickets can shift momentum in a matter of overs.The battle between these two elite pacers could play a decisive role in determining the outcome of the IPL 2026 final.Final VerdictComparing Josh Hazlewood and Mohammed Siraj after 51 IPL matches reveals two bowlers who have achieved success through different methods. Hazlewood relies on precision, consistency, and control, while Siraj combines aggression, swing, and attacking intent.Regardless of who holds the statistical advantage, both fast bowlers have proven their value at the highest level. As fans prepare for the IPL 2026 final, all eyes will be on these two pace spearheads as they look to deliver another memorable performance on cricket's biggest franchise stage.
Rajat Patidar provides crucial update on Phil Salt's availability for RCB's IPL 2026 Qualifier 1 match against GT
Royal Challengers Bengaluru captain Rajat Patidar has finally addressed the biggest question surrounding the team ahead of their high-voltage IPL 2026 Qualifier 1 clash against Gujarat Titans — the availability of explosive English opener Phil Salt. With RCB entering one of the most crucial matches of their season, fans have been anxiously waiting for clarity regarding Salt’s fitness and participation after concerns emerged over his condition following the league-stage fixtures.RCB have looked like one of the strongest and most balanced teams in IPL 2026, and a major reason behind their success has been the aggressive batting approach provided by Phil Salt at the top of the order. The wicketkeeper-batter has consistently delivered quick starts during the powerplay and has formed a dangerous partnership with Virat Kohli. His fearless intent has helped Bengaluru dominate bowling attacks throughout the tournament, making him one of the franchise’s most valuable players this season.Ahead of the Qualifier 1 encounter against Gujarat Titans, Rajat Patidar attended the pre-match press conference where reporters questioned him about Salt’s current condition and whether the English batter would be available for selection. Patidar gave a reassuring response, stating that the team management remains positive about Salt’s recovery and that the medical staff has been closely monitoring his situation.According to Patidar, Phil Salt participated in light training sessions and showed encouraging signs ahead of the knockout game. While the RCB captain did not officially confirm Salt’s inclusion in the playing XI, his comments strongly hinted that the opener could return in time for the crucial contest. Patidar emphasized that the team would take the final decision only after evaluating Salt’s fitness before the toss.The update has come as a massive relief for RCB supporters, especially considering the impact Salt has had throughout IPL 2026. The English batter has played several match-winning innings this season and has often shifted momentum in Bengaluru’s favor within the first six overs. His attacking strokeplay against both pace and spin has allowed RCB’s middle order to play with greater freedom.Salt’s performances this season have also complemented Virat Kohli perfectly. While Kohli has anchored innings with consistency and experience, Salt has provided explosive acceleration at the other end. Their combination has become one of the most dangerous opening partnerships in the tournament, regularly putting opposition bowlers under pressure early in the innings.RCB’s road to Qualifier 1 has been impressive. After a mixed start to the season, the Bengaluru-based franchise found rhythm during the second half of the tournament and climbed the points table with consecutive victories. Rajat Patidar’s calm leadership, combined with strong performances from senior players and overseas stars, transformed RCB into serious title contenders.Patidar himself has led from the front with crucial innings in pressure situations. The RCB skipper has displayed maturity with the bat and confidence in captaincy decisions, earning praise from fans and cricket experts alike. His ability to rotate bowlers effectively and back young players has played an important role in Bengaluru’s successful campaign.Meanwhile, Gujarat Titans have also enjoyed a remarkable season. Known for their disciplined bowling attack and balanced squad, GT once again proved why they are considered one of the most consistent franchises in recent IPL history. Led by a composed captaincy group and supported by impactful all-rounders, Gujarat finished the league stage strongly to secure a top-two finish.The Qualifier 1 clash between RCB and GT is expected to attract enormous attention from cricket fans across the world. The winner of the match will directly qualify for the IPL 2026 final, while the losing team will get another opportunity through Qualifier 2. This added safety net makes the encounter even more intense, as both teams will aim to secure a direct path to the summit clash.For RCB, the possible return of Phil Salt could significantly strengthen their batting lineup. His aggressive intent in the powerplay often changes the course of matches, especially on batting-friendly surfaces. If Salt is declared fit, Gujarat Titans bowlers could face an early challenge containing RCB’s attacking top order.On the other hand, if Salt misses out, Bengaluru may need to reshuffle their batting combination. The team management could consider alternative opening options or bring in another overseas batter to maintain balance. However, replacing a player of Salt’s impact and form would certainly not be easy.The IPL playoffs are known for producing high-pressure moments and unforgettable performances. Over the years, several teams have entered knockout matches with injury concerns surrounding key players. In many cases, last-minute fitness clearances have changed the momentum entirely. RCB fans will be hoping that Phil Salt can recover fully and deliver another explosive performance in the playoffs.Social media has already exploded with reactions following Rajat Patidar’s comments. RCB supporters flooded platforms with optimistic messages, expressing excitement over Salt’s possible comeback. Many fans believe that a fully fit Phil Salt could become the X-factor for Bengaluru in their quest for a maiden IPL title.Cricket analysts have also highlighted Salt’s importance to RCB’s strategy. His aggressive starts not only maximize powerplay scoring but also force opposing captains to alter bowling plans early in the game. This often creates opportunities for players like Kohli, Patidar, and Maxwell to capitalize later in the innings.Another key factor will be Gujarat Titans’ bowling attack. GT possess several experienced bowlers capable of controlling aggressive batters during the powerplay. The battle between Phil Salt and Gujarat’s new-ball bowlers could become one of the defining moments of the match if the English opener is available.The Narendra Modi Stadium is expected to host a packed crowd for the blockbuster encounter. Fans from both franchises are eagerly waiting to witness a thrilling playoff showdown between two in-form teams. Given the stakes involved, pressure handling and execution in crucial moments could decide the outcome.RCB’s bowling department has also improved significantly during the latter stages of the tournament. Their pace attack has delivered breakthroughs consistently, while the spinners have controlled middle overs effectively. Patidar praised the collective effort of the squad and mentioned that every player understands their role clearly heading into the playoffs.The franchise’s dream of winning a maiden IPL trophy remains alive, and the team appears more balanced and confident than ever before. Experienced stars alongside emerging talents have created a strong team environment inside the RCB camp.As for Gujarat Titans, they will rely heavily on their all-round depth and tactical discipline. GT have repeatedly shown the ability to handle pressure situations calmly, making them one of the toughest opponents in knockout cricket. Their balanced approach and experienced bowling lineup could test Bengaluru’s aggressive batting unit.The excitement surrounding the IPL 2026 playoffs continues to grow with every passing day. Fans are expecting fireworks, dramatic finishes, and standout individual performances as the tournament moves closer to crowning a new champion.For now, all eyes remain on the final fitness update regarding Phil Salt. Rajat Patidar’s latest statement has certainly provided hope for RCB fans, but the final call could come only closer to match time. Whether Salt plays or not, one thing is certain — the RCB vs GT Qualifier 1 clash promises to be an electrifying contest filled with pressure, emotion, and world-class cricket action.
When the 'fall guy' sent Chepauk into a frenzy
Last year around this time, Chennai Super Kings showed urgency in securing replacements for their injured players. Urvil Patel was one of them after going unsold in the 2025 auction. Almost one year later, CSK again had to grapple with injuries to key players. Yet, they showed no signs of panic and remained calm instead of actively looking for replacements again."We've got Urvil Patel who's still itching to get a game, he's quality as well," head coach Stephen Fleming had said. "I know there's been some commentary around him. We're lucky to have some quality players, aggressive players at the top, so the urgency to get a replacement is not necessarily there,"The 'commentary' that Fleming had spoken about was the chatter predominantly on social media from fans and former players. Fleming and the team management were certainly under a bit of pressure as the calls for the inclusion of Urvil in the CSK XII grew louder. It was understandable given CSK's poor start and also because of the fact that Urvil was one of those players who provided a bit of spark during their gloomy 2025 campaign. Urvil, alongside other replacements Mhatre and Dewald Brevis, made quite an impression. Between the two seasons, he had also scored a 31-ball ton in the SMAT. But following the expensive acquisitions of Kartik Sharma and Prashant Veer, it was always going to be tough for CSK to accommodate all of them and hence Urvil was the "fall guy".An unfortunate injury to Mhatre finally paved the way for Urvil to get a run at No.3 and the 28-year-old has now grabbed it with both hands by stepping up at a crucial juncture for CSK. The five-time champions have been on a comeback trail but there's still lots to be done in order to break into the top four. Back-to-back fixtures against bottom-placed Lucknow Super Giants provided an excellent opportunity to build more momentum. However, ticking the first box was never going to be easy the moment LSG breached 200 while batting first.
A slow burn that never caught fire for Mumbai Indians
Mumbai Indians' IPL campaigns have often been built on timing. They have rarely been the side that storms through the league stage unbeaten or overwhelms opponents from the outset. Their best seasons have usually involved a slow burn, a squad trusting its pedigree long enough for momentum to eventually arrive. This year, however, the spark never came.A two-wicket loss to Royal Challengers Bengaluru in a last-ball thriller on Sunday (May 10) officially ended their playoff hopes, even though three league games still remain. For a franchise that once defined consistency and big-match certainty, it is now a sixth straight season without the title and another year spent drifting away from the business end of the tournament.What perhaps summed up their season best was not merely the defeat itself, but the manner in which head coach Mahela Jayawardene spoke afterwards. There was no attempt to shield the side behind bad luck, scheduling complaints or conditions. The frustration was visible, but so too was the acceptance."Yeah, I mean, the season, it's disappointing," Jayawardene said after the loss. "We've had our opportunities. We were not good enough. We were not consistent enough with the ball, with the bat and that showed the margins."
IPL Match Today, LSG vs RCB: Predicted playing XI, head-to-head, pitch report, Lucknow weather update
Royal Challengers Bengaluru return from their IPL break still placed second on the table, but the playoff race around them has tightened considerably. What once looked like a comfortable top-four push has now turned into a crowded six-team battle, meaning even one poor result could dramatically alter standings.Despite their strong position, RCB have a few concerns to address. All three of their defeats this season have come while batting first, exposing issues with balancing scoring tempo and middle-order transitions. Vice-captain Jitesh Sharma’s lack of runs has also impacted their batting flow.Meanwhile, Lucknow Super Giants sit at the bottom of the table after a disappointing campaign marked by inconsistency. Captain Rishabh Pant recently admitted the team has struggled for momentum and luck.However, LSG remain dangerous opponents because they now play without pressure. Nicholas Pooran’s return to form showed they still possess match-winning potential, and with little left to lose, they could still disrupt the playoff ambitions of teams like RCB.LSG vs RCB: Head-to-HeadMatches played: 7Lucknow Super Giants won: 2Royal Challengers Bengaluru won: 5LSG vs RCB Today IPL Match: Pitch ReportFor today’s IPL 2026 Match 50 between Lucknow Super Giants (LSG) and Royal Challengers Bengaluru (RCB) at the BRSABV Ekana Stadium, the pitch is expected to be a sluggish, low-scoring surface that favors bowlers. The black-soil surface is traditionally slow and offers significant grip, making it a testing ground for batters to play through the line. Spinners and slower-ball specialists are expected to dominate the middle overs as the ball tends to hold in the surface.LSG vs RCB IPL Match: Lucknow Weather UpdateThe weather in Lucknow is expected to be generally clear during the playing hours, with a minor threat of brief showers. Currently, it is 26°C in Lucknow with 69% humidity. Winds are moving at approximately 11 km/h, adding a slight breeze to the otherwise warm and humid conditions. It will be a warm start at 33°C near toss time, cooling down to a comfortable 24°C by the end of the game.LSG vs RCB: Predicted Playing XIsLucknow Super Gaints (Playing XI): Mitchell Marsh, Josh Inglis, Nicholas Pooran, Rishabh Pant (c&wk), Aiden Markram, Akshat Raghuwanshi, Himmat Singh, Mohammed Shami, Mohsin Khan, Price Yadav, Avesh KhanImpact Player: Digvesh RathiRoyal Challengers Bengaluru (Playing XI): Jacob Bethell, Virat Kohli, Devdutt Padikkal, Rajat Patidar (c), Jitesh Sharma (wk), Tim David, Romario Shepherd, Krunal Pandya, Bhuvneshwar Kumar, Josh Hazlewood, Suyash SharmaImpact Player: Rasikh Salam DarLSG vs RCB: Live Streaming detailsThe LSG vs RCB clash will be held at the Bharat Ratna Shri Atal Bihari Vajpayee Ekana Cricket Stadium, Lucknow with the match set to begin at 7:30 PM IST. The game will be broadcast on the Star Sports Network, while live streaming will be available on JioHotstar.
IPL 2026 Play Of The Day: Rishabh Pant goes full Ghajini as PBKS plunder LSG in Mullanpur
IPL 2026: It was a night to forget for Rishabh Pant, the LSG skipper, as his decision to not use main spinner M. Siddharth effectively came to haunt them the match against PBKS. Pant also had a howler with DRS, which gave Cooper Connolly a second life.If you’re a fan of Bollywood, chances are you’ve watched Ghajini, starring Aamir Khan. In the film, his character suffers from short-term memory loss and constantly forgets key details. To stay focused on his mission, he writes notes and tattoos reminders on his body.Now, we’re not suggesting Rishabh Pant needs to go that far, but a gentle reminder wouldn’t hurt. Maybe not full-blown tattoos all over his body like Ghajini, but even a small one saying “Use spin more” might just do the trick.
IPL Pulse: Overrated strike-rates and underrated smarts
Phil Salt's 63 powered them to 175/8, but the innings stalled badly at the death (and no, Axar didn't bowl the 19th this time).KL Rahul and Tristan Stubbs rebuilt calmly before David Miller iced it at the finish.In Hyderabad, SRH's 194 looked under threat with CSK cruising at 111/3.But wickets in clusters and sharp death bowling flipped it, as CSK fell short by 10 runs.Oh, that happenedCSK lost yet another run-chase, this time after cruising to 112/3 chasing 195, with the win probability at 69%, only to fall short by 10 after managing just 30/2 in the next five overs. It mirrors a deeper slide; they have the second-worst chasing record since 2024 (6 wins in 16) and have lost 16 of 18 chases of 175-plus since 2020.
Rajasthan Royals Sold For More Than Rs 15,000 Crore, Set To Become Costliest IPL Franchise
The Rajasthan Royals ownership race is over, and a consortium led by US-based entrepreneur Kal Somani has emerged as the winner. The consortium reportedly acquired 100 per cent of the franchise at a valuation of $1.63 billion (Rs 15,286 crore). Somani is the founder of IntraEdge, Academian, and Truyo.AI. He is backed by American businessman Rob Walton, of the Walmart family, and the Hamp family, who own majority stakes in National Football League (NFL) side Detroit Lions. Sheila Ford Hamp also has roots in the Ford family, who are co-owners of the Ford Motor Company.
Starc to miss start of IPL 2026
Mitchell Starc is set to miss the start of IPL 2026, with Cricket Australia taking a cautious approach in managing the left-arm quick ahead of a demanding international schedule. Starc is among Australia's senior pacers being held back for the early part of the tournament, with his availability dependent on progress in return-to-play protocols over the coming weeks, according to a report on cricket.com.au. The 36-year-old's workload has been a key factor in the decision. He featured in all five Ashes Tests before turning out in the latter stages of the Big Bash League. While Starc stepped away from T20 Internationals last year, he remains central to Australia's plans in the longer formats. With a packed stretch ahead that could see Australia play up to 21 Tests in a 12-month window from August - including tours of South Africa, India and England, followed by the ODI World Cup in 2027 - the board has opted for a conservative approach. Starc was picked up by Delhi Capitals for INR 11.75 crore, and his absence will leave a significant gap in their attack at the start of the season. Pat Cummins and Josh Hazlewood are also set to miss the opening phase as part of the same workload management plan, while Nathan Ellis has been ruled out of the tournament due to a hamstring injury.