IPL 2026: Abhishek Sharma scripts history, joins David Warner to…. | Cricket News – The Times of India
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IPL 2026: Abhishek Sharma scripts history, joins David Warner to…. | Cricket News – The Times of India


IPL 2026: Abhishek Sharma scripts history, joins David Warner to…. | Cricket News – The Times of India
SRH opener Abhishek Sharma (PTI Photo)

Sunrisers Hyderabad batter Abhishek Sharma etched his name in the franchise’s record books, becoming only the second player after David Warner to complete 100 sixes for SRH in the Indian Premier League.The left-hander reached the milestone during SRH’s clash against Kolkata Knight Riders, smashing a quickfire 48 off 21 balls, including four boundaries and four sixes at a strike rate of over 228. Abhishek now has 101 sixes for the franchise, second only to Warner’s tally of 143. In 76 matches for SRH, he has scored 1,808 runs at an average of 26.58 and a strike rate of 162.88, including one century and nine fifties.SRH post big total, bowlers seal commanding winSunrisers Hyderabad delivered a dominant all-round performance to defeat Kolkata Knight Riders by 65 runs at Eden Gardens, registering their first win of IPL 2026.After posting a formidable 226/8, the highest total of the season so far, SRH’s bowlers backed it up with a clinical effort. Jaydev Unadkat led the charge with impressive figures of 3/21, while Eshan Malinga, Nitish Kumar Reddy, and Harsh Dubey applied consistent pressure as KKR were bowled out for 161 in just 16 overs.The win was significant as it marked the first successful defence of a total in this year’s tournament.KKR start strong but collapse under pressureChasing 227, KKR got off to a flying start with Finn Allen smashing 28 off just seven balls, including a 25-run opening over. However, SRH struck back quickly, with Dubey removing Allen via a sharp caught-and-bowled effort.Ajinkya Rahane and Angkrish Raghuvanshi then stitched a 37-run stand to steady the innings, with Raghuvanshi continuing his fine form. But SRH regained control as Unadkat dismissed Rahane with a slower ball, while a mix-up led to Cameron Green’s run-out at the end of the powerplay, leaving KKR at 74/3.Raghuvanshi went on to score his second consecutive fifty, reaching the milestone in 27 balls, before being run out for 52. Nitish Kumar Reddy then struck twice in quick succession, removing Anukul Roy and Rinku Singh to dent KKR’s chase further.Sunil Narine provided a brief counterattack, but Malinga dismissed him and Ramandeep Singh in successive overs. Unadkat returned to wrap up the innings by removing Kartik Tyagi and Varun Chakaravarthy, sealing a comprehensive win for SRH.


Is MS Dhoni playing today? Viral training clip excites fans ahead CSK vs PBKS clash | Cricket News – The Times of India
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Is MS Dhoni playing today? Viral training clip excites fans ahead CSK vs PBKS clash | Cricket News – The Times of India


Is MS Dhoni playing today? Viral training clip excites fans ahead CSK vs PBKS clash | Cricket News – The Times of India
MS Dhoni (Image: X/Screengrab)

Chennai Super Kings fans were left excited after MS Dhoni was spotted training ahead of their IPL 2026 clash against Punjab Kings, raising hopes of an earlier-than-expected return.Dhoni had missed CSK’s opening match against Rajasthan Royals after the franchise confirmed that he would be sidelined for around two weeks due to a calf strain. He did not travel with the squad to Guwahati and was ruled out just before the season opener. However, a recent video shared on CSK’s official social media showed Dhoni carrying his kit and participating in practice sessions, sparking speculation about his fitness and availability. While there has been no official confirmation on his return, his presence at training has boosted optimism among fans.Interestingly, Dhoni had been seen in training ahead of the opener as well, but was later ruled out, making this latest development even more intriguing. The resurfaced visuals have now reignited questions about whether the veteran could make a comeback earlier than expected.Chennai Super Kings (CSK) have endured a poor start to IPL 2026, suffering a heavy defeat in their opening match against Rajasthan Royals. Batting first, CSK were bundled out for just 127, struggling to build partnerships and losing wickets regularly. Despite a fighting knock from Jamie Overton, their batting lacked momentum. In response, Rajasthan Royals chased down the target comfortably in just 12.1 overs, exposing CSK’s bowling concerns as well.If Dhoni does return for the clash against Punjab Kings, it would provide a massive boost to CSK, both in terms of experience and leadership. His presence in the dressing room and on the field could play a crucial role as the team looks to bounce back in the tournament.Upcoming matches of Chennai Super Kings (CSK)March 30 – vs Rajasthan Royals (Guwahati)April 3 – vs Punjab Kings (Chennai)April 5 – vs Royal Challengers Bengaluru (Bengaluru)April 11 – vs Delhi Capitals (Chennai)April 14 – vs Kolkata Knight Riders (Chennai)April 18 – vs Sunrisers Hyderabad (Hyderabad)April 23 – vs Mumbai Indians (Mumbai)April 26 – vs Gujarat Titans (Ahmedabad)May 2 – vs Mumbai Indians (Chennai)May 5 – vs Delhi Capitals (Delhi)May 10 – vs Lucknow Super Giants (Chennai)May 15 – vs Lucknow Super Giants (Away)May 18 – vs Sunrisers Hyderabad (Chennai)May 21 – vs Gujarat Titans (Chennai)


Mustafizur Rahman row: IPL chief Arun Dhumal breaks silence – ‘Govt is supportive of …’ | Cricket News – The Times of India
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Mustafizur Rahman row: IPL chief Arun Dhumal breaks silence – ‘Govt is supportive of …’ | Cricket News – The Times of India


Mustafizur Rahman row: IPL chief Arun Dhumal breaks silence – ‘Govt is supportive of …’ | Cricket News – The Times of India
Mustafizur Rahman and IPL logo

NEW DELHI: Bangladesh pacer Mustafizur Rahman’s sudden ouster from Kolkata Knight Riders has been termed “unfortunate” by IPL chairman Arun Singh Dhumal. Mustafizur, who was bought for Rs 9.5 crore ahead of the 2026 season, was released following instructions from the BCCI, sparking backlash and wider controversy.

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Mike Hussey admits CSK were outplayed after batting collapse

“I would only say it was unfortunate. Beyond that, I do not have much knowledge,” Dhumal said in an interview with Financial Times.The incident did not stay limited to the IPL, as it was followed by a series of developments that eventually saw Bangladesh being replaced by Scotland in the 2026 T20 World Cup. The episode also reignited discussions about how external factors sometimes influence cricket decisions, especially in high-profile tournaments like the IPL.Dhumal addressed such concerns, stating, “It is unfortunate, I would say, the way things unfold at times. I do not think the government has any interest or any role to play in running cricket day to day. The government is supportive of cricket at large.”KKR clarified that the move was not their own but carried out as per directives. In an official statement, the franchise said, “Kolkata Knight Riders confirms that BCCI/IPL as the regulator of IPL has instructed it to release Mustafizur Rahman from the squad ahead of the upcoming Indian Premier League (IPL) season.”“The release has been carried out following due process and consultations… BCCI will allow Kolkata Knight Riders a replacement player in line with IPL regulations,” the statement added.Dhumal remained hopeful about the future, saying, “But, yes, sometimes events happen around us and decisions follow. I am sure good sense will prevail and that this will not be the case going forward.”


‘Is Rishabh Pant really an opener?’ Kevin Pietersen questions LSG call | Cricket News – The Times of India
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‘Is Rishabh Pant really an opener?’ Kevin Pietersen questions LSG call | Cricket News – The Times of India


‘Is Rishabh Pant really an opener?’ Kevin Pietersen questions LSG call | Cricket News – The Times of India

NEW DELHI: Former England captain Kevin Pietersen has raised doubts over Rishabh Pant’s decision to promote himself to the top order, suggesting the Lucknow Super Giants skipper may have “gone a little too far ahead” in his batting position.Pant, who was run out for 7 off 9 balls in LSG’s IPL 2026 opener against Delhi Capitals, later indicated he intends to bat in the top order this season. However, Pietersen believes the move could backfire.

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Mukul Choudhary on LSG’s game plan: backing partnerships & staying fearless

‘Too much pressure at the top’“When you look at the strength and depth of LSG’s batting, is Rishabh Pant really an opening batter?” Pietersen said. “I think he might have gone a little too far ahead of where he was in the line-up compared to last year.”The former England star pointed out that Pant had earlier dropped down the order but is now looking to move up again, a shift he feels may not be ideal. “He just needs to go out and enjoy his cricket,” Pietersen added, warning that forcing himself into a top-three role could pile unnecessary pressure.“Don’t force yourself into batting at number three. Enjoy the luxury of that position. I think he puts himself under tremendous pressure by opening the batting,” he said.Rizvi earns praise after match-winning knockPietersen also heaped praise on Delhi’s young batter Sameer Rizvi, who turned the game with an unbeaten 70 after the Capitals were reduced to 26/4 in a chase of 142.“He played the situation beautifully, and I’m not surprised,” Pietersen said, recalling his time mentoring the youngster. “This kid is a proper player, and we probably need to invest in him for a period of time.”He emphasised the importance of backing young talent, adding, “When you invest in a player, you need trust that he can pay you back, and he has done exactly that.”According to Pietersen, Rizvi’s match-winning effort under pressure in a season opener carries more weight than scoring freely in a high-scoring game, underlining his temperament and potential.


IPL 2026: Rishabh Pant to continue as opener? LSG skipper reveals after defeat | Cricket News – The Times of India
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IPL 2026: Rishabh Pant to continue as opener? LSG skipper reveals after defeat | Cricket News – The Times of India


IPL 2026: Rishabh Pant to continue as opener? LSG skipper reveals after defeat | Cricket News – The Times of India

NEW DELHI: Rishabh Pant’s bold move to open the innings didn’t go as planned as Lucknow Super Giants slumped to a defeat against Delhi Capitals in their IPL 2026 opener, raising questions about his role at the top.Pant’s outing ended in a bizarre run-out in the third over. A straight drive from Mitchell Marsh was deflected onto the stumps by Mukesh Kumar, catching Pant well short at the non-striker’s end. The LSG skipper, who scored 7 off 9 balls, walked off visibly frustrated after the unlucky dismissal.

Watch

Angkrish Raghuvanshi focused only on team’s wins

Reflecting on the moment, Pant said, “I think the best way to recover from it is to ignore. I think that’s the best way looking forward because you know something like that, you can’t control, but thinking about it definitely puts you on the back-foot.” He also admitted that the team struggled to build partnerships: “See, it’s always the case, but you know the way we batted, we couldn’t get a partnership going for long.”Pant’s promotion to the top, breaking the established pair of Aiden Markram and Marsh, raised eyebrows. Addressing whether he will continue as opener, he said, “I think it’s a 50-50 call, but we’ll see. But definitely see me in the top order.”LSG’s batting faltered throughout, managing just 141 in 18.4 overs despite starts from Markram and a fighting 35 from Marsh. Lungi Ngidi and T Natarajan starred with three wickets each, while Kuldeep Yadav chipped in with crucial breakthroughs.

Rizvi, Stubbs seal win for DC

Chasing 142, Delhi were in early trouble before Sameer Rizvi (70*) and Tristan Stubbs (39*) stitched a match-winning 119-run stand. Rizvi’s fearless hitting turned the game on its head as DC chased down the target in 17.1 overs.With the opening experiment failing and LSG’s batting misfiring, Pant now faces a crucial call on his position going forward.


‘Very unfortunate’: KKR head coach breaks silence on Cameron Green workload row | Cricket News – The Times of India
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‘Very unfortunate’: KKR head coach breaks silence on Cameron Green workload row | Cricket News – The Times of India


‘Very unfortunate’: KKR head coach breaks silence on Cameron Green workload row | Cricket News – The Times of India
Cameron Green (AP Photo/Rafiq Maqbool)

NEW DELHI: Kolkata Knight Riders head coach Abhishek Nayar has downplayed concerns over Cameron Green not bowling so far in IPL 2026, saying it’s just an unfortunate situation. The Australian all-rounder, bought for Rs 25.2 crore, is currently unable to bowl due to a lower back injury, though he is expected to resume soon.Nayar made it clear that KKR’s investment in Green goes beyond immediate results, with the franchise viewing him as a long-term option and a potential successor to Andre Russell.

Watch

Mike Hussey admits CSK were outplayed after batting collapse

“There are things that sometimes are very unfortunate; it’s not in your control, but that’s the sport, and that’s the beauty of the sport. So, we always consider best-case scenarios. Yes, you want back-ups; you pick players who do certain things,” Nayar said. “But when we went into the auction… we felt Cam Green could do that for us. It’s just unfortunate that he’s not been able to bowl so far.”He added that auction decisions are made with a bigger picture in mind, saying, “See, the idea of picking a player in an auction is not always very short-sighted… we as a franchise always invest in the player and what the player at his best can bring to our table, and we know what Cam Green can do.”

Abhishek Nayar backs Varun to bounce back

Nayar also showed confidence in Varun Chakaravarthy, who has been struggling for form recently. He believes the spinner is mentally strong and capable of turning things around.“I honestly believe mentally he is in a very good space… Is it his toughest challenge? I feel he’s gone through a lot more than this,” he added.While acknowledging that teams have started playing him better, Nayar remained optimistic. “But yes, teams are playing him well… it’s inevitable that he will bounce back as he has in the past,” he concluded.


IPL | KKR coach Nayar bets on Varun bouncing back
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IPL | KKR coach Nayar bets on Varun bouncing back


IPL | KKR coach Nayar bets on Varun bouncing back

Kolkata Knight Riders’s Varun Chakaravarthy bowls during a practice session on the eve of the Indian Premier League (IPL) 2026 cricket match against Sunrisers Hyderabad, in Kolkata, Wednesday, April 1, 2026.
| Photo Credit: K.R. DEEPAK

Kolkata Knight Riders (KKR) head coach Abhishek Nayar on Wednesday expressed confidence that spinner Varun Chakaravarthy would bounce back in the Indian Premier League (IPL).

Varun conceded a lot of runs in the T20 World Cup and in KKR’s IPL opener against Mumbai Indians (0/48 in four overs) at the Wankhede Stadium the other night.

However, Nayar solidly backed the spinner. “He has gone through a lot more than this. He has accomplished a lot over the past year, which has increased expectations…Statistically, he’s pretty much bowled the similar speeds that he always has.

“Hawkeye suggests he has bowled the same lengths, but sometimes players play you better,” Nayar said on the eve of KKR’s match against Sunrisers Hyderabad.

“It (Wankhede) was a pitch that challenged all spinners…and Varun bowls (in) those phases where he’s always going to be challenged. As a franchise, as support staff, we back him. Teams are playing him well. Doesn’t mean he can’t come back. It just means that it’s another challenge in his life.

Kolkata Knight Riders’s Varun Chakaravarthy bowls during a practice session on the eve of the Indian Premier League (IPL) 2026 cricket match against Sunrisers Hyderabad, in Kolkata, Wednesday, April 1, 2026.

Kolkata Knight Riders’s Varun Chakaravarthy bowls during a practice session on the eve of the Indian Premier League (IPL) 2026 cricket match against Sunrisers Hyderabad, in Kolkata, Wednesday, April 1, 2026.
| Photo Credit:
K.R. DEEPAK

“At times you want to protect a bowler and bring him at a time where you feel he can be more effective. But the nature of the game is (such) that sometimes you want to put your best players in a position to perform. If he picks up wickets there, he’s a different bowler.”

Nayar said the support staff, including mentor D.J. Bravo and bowling coach Tim Southee, had been working with the less experienced bowlers in the side to bring out the best in them.

Published – April 01, 2026 08:28 pm IST


Watch: Rishabh Pant giggles after freak dismissal ends opening gamble in LSG vs DC | Cricket News – The Times of India
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Watch: Rishabh Pant giggles after freak dismissal ends opening gamble in LSG vs DC | Cricket News – The Times of India


Watch: Rishabh Pant giggles after freak dismissal ends opening gamble in LSG vs DC | Cricket News – The Times of India
Rishabh Pant dismissal in LSG vs DC (Screengrabs)

NEW DELHI: Lucknow Super Giants skipper Rishabh Pant endured a frustrating start to his opening experiment as Lucknow Super Giants took on Delhi Capitals in their first IPL 2026 clash on Wednesday, with a bizarre run-out cutting short his innings.The incident unfolded in the third over when Mukesh Kumar delivered a full ball that Mitchell Marsh struck firmly back towards the bowler. Mukesh got a fingertip to the ball in his follow-through, inadvertently deflecting it onto the stumps at the non-striker’s end.

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Angkrish Raghuvanshi focused only on team’s wins

Pant, who had backed up too far, was caught well short of his crease with no chance of recovery. Visibly disappointed, he walked off without waiting for the third umpire’s confirmation after scoring 7 off 9 balls.Watch:Pant’s early dismissal dealt a blow to LSG’s strategy, as the team had opted to promote him to the top in a bold tactical move. The wicket also validated Delhi’s decision to bowl first after Axar Patel won the toss, expecting assistance from the fresh surface.Earlier, Axar explained the call, citing potential help for bowlers in the powerplay despite data favouring teams batting first. Delhi fielded a balanced XI featuring the likes of KL Rahul, David Miller and Kuldeep Yadav, while LSG relied on a strong overseas core including Marsh, Nicholas Pooran and Anrich Nortje.Adding to the talking points, Arjun Tendulkar remained absent from both the playing XI and the bench despite being part of LSG’s squad this season.With Pant’s gamble backfiring early, the contest quickly tilted in Delhi’s favour in the opening exchanges.

LSG vs DC Playing XI

Lucknow Super Giants (Playing XI): Aiden Markram, Mitchell Marsh, Nicholas Pooran, Rishabh Pant(w/c), Ayush Badoni, Abdul Samad, Mukul Choudhary, Mohsin Khan, Mohammed Shami, Anrich Nortje, Prince YadavLucknow Super Giants Impact subs: Digvesh Rathi, Avesh Khan, Himmat Singh, Shahbaz Ahmed, Akshat RaghuvanshiDelhi Capitals (Playing XI): KL Rahul(w), Pathum Nissanka, Nitish Rana, Axar Patel(c), Tristan Stubbs, David Miller, Vipraj Nigam, Lungi Ngidi,Kuldeep Yadav, T Natarajan, Mukesh KumarDelhi Capitals Impact subs: Ashutosh Sharma, Auqib Nabi, Sameer Rizvi, Dushmantha Chameera, Karun Nair


RCB vs CSK: Tickets, metro perks & all you need to know ahead of big clash | Cricket News – The Times of India
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RCB vs CSK: Tickets, metro perks & all you need to know ahead of big clash | Cricket News – The Times of India


RCB vs CSK: Tickets, metro perks & all you need to know ahead of big clash | Cricket News – The Times of India
RCB vs CSK on March 5 (Screengrab)

Royal Challengers Bengaluru is set for a blockbuster clash against Chennai Super Kings on March 5 on their homeground Chinnaswamy Stadium, Bengaluru. With one of the most anticipated clashes of IPL 2026 approaching, tickets have officially gone live, and fans have been provided with detailed guidelines to ensure a smooth match-day experience.How to Book RCB vs CSK TicketsTickets are available exclusively through the official RCB website and mobile app. Fans are advised to avoid third-party platforms or unauthorized sellers, as only official channels guarantee valid entry into the stadium.In a major boost for spectators, all valid ticket holders will be eligible for complimentary metro travel on match day. Fans can access this benefit via the Metro QR code available alongside their mobile ticket, making travel to and from the venue hassle-free.M-Ticket & Entry GuidelinesEach digital ticket will include essential details such as entry gate, stand, row, and seat number. The QR code required for stadium entry will be activated only a few hours before the gates open. Spectators are advised to check their tickets carefully and follow designated entry points via Cubbon Road, Link Road, and MG Road. Entry through Queens Road will be restricted, except for select Pavilion stands.Fans are encouraged to arrive early, follow the guidelines, and enjoy a seamless match-day experience at Chinnaswamy.Strong Start From RCB as defending Champions Royal Challengers Bengaluru kicked off their campaign in dominant fashion, registering a strong win in their opening match against Sunrisers Hyderabad in Bengaluru. Defending champions RCB began their IPL 2026 campaign with a clinical 6-wicket victory over Sunrisers Hyderabad (SRH) on March 28, 2026. Chasing a target of 202, RCB reached 203/4 in just 15.4 overs at the M. Chinnaswamy Stadium, recording the fastest 200+ run-chase in IPL history. Meanwhile, CSK had a rough Start of IPL 2026 as Rajasthan Royals (RR) secured a dominant 8-wicket victory over Chennai Super Kings (CSK) in their IPL 2026 season opener on March 30, 2026. Played at the Barsapara Cricket Stadium in Guwahati, RR chased down a target of 128 in just 12.1 overs, finishing at 128/2 with 47 balls to spare.


Pakistan’s Akmal makes bold claim on Vaibhav Sooryavanshi’s India future | Cricket News – The Times of India
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Pakistan’s Akmal makes bold claim on Vaibhav Sooryavanshi’s India future | Cricket News – The Times of India


Pakistan’s Akmal makes bold claim on Vaibhav Sooryavanshi’s India future | Cricket News – The Times of India
Kamran Akmal opens up on Vaibhav Sooryavanshi

NEW DELHI: Indian teenage batter Vaibhav Sooryavanshi is quickly becoming one of the biggest talking points in cricket. The teenage batter has been in explosive form in the IPL, delivering performances that are far beyond his age. Former Pakistan wicketkeeper Kamran Akmal believes this is just the beginning. He feels Sooryavanshi is already ready for the international stage and could soon represent India.

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Riyan Parag gets honest: handling criticism, captaincy calls & rain chaos

“In just 8 IPL games, he has been piling records — he already has a hundred. I think in the coming international games for India, he will get a chance after IPL. He will become a young player of the T20 international team. He has proved himself in every place. If he continues to perform,he will definitely get the chance,” Akmal said on Gameplan.

Sooryavanshi’s rapid rise

Sooryavanshi’s fearless approach has stood out. Even in a low-scoring match, his aggressive innings made a big impact. Akmal highlighted his maturity, saying, “His presence of mind, game awareness, the way he plays — he has a counter to everything at such a young age. This is remarkable … We are discussing his performance more because it was a (low-scoring) match of 128. But his performance is visible because he scored 50 runs on 15 balls.”Behind his success is strong support from family and coaches. “His family and his father should be proud — the way he has worked with him, the way the others too like coaches who have taught him in school cricket, in club cricket,” Akmal noted.With such performances already under his belt, expectations are soaring. As Akmal summed it up: “I am afraid when he is 25, the bowlers will not know what to do with him.”From smashing a century in just 35 balls to hitting a six on the very first ball of his debut, he has consistently grabbed attention. His latest knock, a blistering 15-ball fifty against Chennai Super Kings while chasing a small target of 128, only added to the buzz around him.