Rohit Sharma scripts IPL history, surpasses MS Dhoni to… | Cricket News – The Times of India
tioo Sports
Rohit Sharma scripts IPL history, surpasses MS Dhoni to… | Cricket News – The Times of India


Rohit Sharma scripts IPL history, surpasses MS Dhoni to… | Cricket News – The Times of India
Rohit Sharma and MS Dhoni (PTI Photo)

NEW DELHI: Rohit Sharma added another milestone to his name during Mumbai Indians’ IPL 2026 clash against Delhi Capitals on Saturday, even though his innings was a modest 35 runs. The experienced opener hit five fours and a six before getting out, but that one six was enough to put him in the record books.With that shot, Rohit became the Indian player with the most sixes against a single team in IPL history. He now has 51 sixes against Delhi Capitals, going past MS Dhoni’s previous record of 50 sixes against Royal Challengers Bengaluru.

Watch

‘Bowlers have it hard’ – Glenn Phillips breaks down modern T20 cricket

This achievement highlights Rohit’s consistency and dominance over the years, especially against Delhi. While he didn’t play a big innings in the match, the milestone stood out as a significant personal achievement.Globally, the record still belongs to Chris Gayle, who has smashed the most sixes against a single team in IPL history. Among Indian batters, Rohit now leads the list, followed by Dhoni and Virat Kohli.Rohit also came close to another big milestone, 6000 runs for Mumbai Indians in the IPL, but he fell just short of eleven runs. Despite that, his record-breaking six added another feather to his already impressive career.Even on a day without a big score, Rohit managed to make headlines, proving once again why he remains one of the most impactful players in IPL history.In the match, Sameer Rizvi smashed a brilliant 90 off 51 balls to guide Delhi Capitals to a comfortable six-wicket win over Mumbai Indians. Mumbai posted a modest 162/6, with Rohit Sharma (35), Suryakumar Yadav, and Naman Dhir (28) being the main contributors, while Mukesh Kumar (2/26) struck early blows.Chasing 163, Delhi lost KL Rahul and Nitish Rana cheaply, but Pathum Nissanka’s quick 44 steadied the innings. Rizvi then took control, hitting seven sixes and seven fours, as Delhi chased down the target in just 18.1 overs.


‘Hard work is paying off’: Sameer Rizvi after stellar 90 runs knock vs Mumbai Indians | Cricket News – The Times of India
tioo Sports
‘Hard work is paying off’: Sameer Rizvi after stellar 90 runs knock vs Mumbai Indians | Cricket News – The Times of India


‘Hard work is paying off’: Sameer Rizvi after stellar 90 runs knock vs Mumbai Indians | Cricket News – The Times of India
Sameer Rizvi credits practice after stellar 90

Delhi Capitals (DC) batter Sameer Rizvi credited his intense self-improvement for his match-winning knock against Mumbai Indians (MI) in their IPL 2026 clash at the Arun Jaitley Stadium.Rizvi’s scintillating 90 off 51 balls powered DC to a six-wicket win over MI on Saturday. His innings featured seven fours and seven sixes as Delhi chased down a target of 163 comfortably. The victory marked DC’s second win over MI in their last seven IPL encounters. It was also only their second win in six matches at the Arun Jaitley Stadium since 2025, with the other coming in a Super Over against Rajasthan Royals.Named Player of the Match, Rizvi reflected on the effort he has put in over the past year to refine his game.“I have worked very hard on myself. Since last year, there have been many changes. I identified my weaknesses, especially against fast bowlers, and worked on them throughout the year. The hard work is paying off now,” Rizvi said.He also highlighted the importance of adapting to match situations. “I always try to play according to the situation. At the start, our situation required patience, so I took my time. Once I got settled, I played my shots and focused on watching the ball till the very end,” he added.Speaking about handling different match scenarios, Rizvi emphasized the value of settling in at the crease. “Whenever I come in under pressure, I try to give myself time. Once you are set, you understand the situation better and batting becomes easier,” he explained.The youngster also acknowledged the significance of performing in the IPL. “Yes, this is a very important time for any player because if you score runs and bat well here, you gain confidence. You also get opportunities to move ahead, to play more, and to get chances on bigger platforms. So sir, it is a very good thing for us youngsters,” he said.

Debut in IPL 2024

Rizvi first grabbed attention in IPL 2024 when he smashed a six off his very first ball against Rashid Khan while playing for Chennai Super Kings (CSK). After a modest start to his IPL career, he has now found his rhythm with Delhi Capitals, registering three consecutive half-centuries.In his first eight IPL innings, Rizvi managed just 114 runs at an average of 16.3. However, in his last three matches, the right-hander has turned things around dramatically, amassing 218 runs, including three fifties. Rizvi’s knock was historic in multiple ways. His 90 is the second-highest score by an Impact Player in IPL history, behind Jos Buttler’s unbeaten 107 against KKR in 2024.It is also the third-highest individual score by a DC batter against MI, after Virender Sehwag’s 95* in 2013 and Jason Roy’s 91* in 2018. Additionally, his seven sixes are the joint-most by a DC batter against MI, equalling the records of Rishabh Pant (2019) and Tristan Stubbs (2024).With 160 runs in just two innings this season, Rizvi now holds the Orange Cap, underlining his explosive start to IPL 2026.


IPL 2026: Sameer Rizvi’s masterclass floors Mumbai Indians; Delhi Capitals make it two in a row | Cricket News – The Times of India
tioo Sports
IPL 2026: Sameer Rizvi’s masterclass floors Mumbai Indians; Delhi Capitals make it two in a row | Cricket News – The Times of India


IPL 2026: Sameer Rizvi’s masterclass floors Mumbai Indians; Delhi Capitals make it two in a row | Cricket News – The Times of India

NEW DELHI: At the halfway mark, Rohit Sharma said the pitch was difficult to bat on and backed Mumbai Indians’ bowlers to defend 162 against Delhi Capitals at the Arun Jaitley Stadium.His words almost proved to be prophetic.Chasing 163, Delhi Capitals needed 90 runs in the last ten overs with well-set Pathum Nissanka back in the hut. But Sameer Rizvi, Delhi’s hero in their last match against Lucknow Super Giants, took them home again with another sublime knock. Delhi Capitals defeated Mumbai Indians by five wickets to register their second consecutive win in the 2026 Indian Premier League (IPL).

Watch

‘Bowlers have it hard’ – Glenn Phillips breaks down modern T20 cricket

Rizvi struggled initially and was 11 off 17 balls at one stage. The 22-year-old broke free with a six off Corbin Bosch in the ninth over. However, the match remained in the balance as Mitchell Santner dismissed Pathum Nissanka. The Sri Lanka opener, who scored a fluent 44 off 30 balls, top-edged one, with Mayank Markande taking a good catch at short fine leg.Rizvi then shifted gears in the next over, taking 20 runs off Corbin Bosch. He handled every variation with ease, dispatching slower balls, short deliveries and fuller ones alike, even managing a maximum off a mistimed shot.He smashed back-to-back sixes off Mayank Markande to complete his second consecutive fifty this season and his third in a row for the franchise, reaching the milestone in 32 balls.Jasprit Bumrah briefly pulled things back with a one-run over, but Delhi were firmly in control by then. Rizvi continued his assault on Deepak Chahar and later combined with David Miller for a 50-run stand in just 26 balls, with Miller contributing only one run.Rizvi looked unstoppable, taking apart Shardul Thakur for 17 runs in an over. Miller then joined in with a couple of elegant boundaries off Bumrah.Rizvi eventually departed after a brilliant 90 off 51 balls, receiving a standing ovation from the Delhi crowd, his teammates and even the opposition. And by then time, he got out it was a mere formality.

A dry afternoon

On the eve of the match, Mumbai Indians head coach Mahela Jayawardene and Delhi Capitals spinner Kuldeep Yadav had expressed similar views that the Arun Jaitley Stadium pitch would be batting-friendly. However, it turned out to be a two-paced surface.Mumbai Indians were without their regular captain Hardik Pandya, who missed the match due to a viral infection. Delhi Capitals captain Axar Patel won the toss and opted to chase.After being put in to bat, Mumbai Indians got off to a shaky start, with Mukesh Kumar removing Ryan Rickelton (9) and Tilak Varma (0) in the third over. Mukesh initially searched for swing but adjusted his length in his next over to pick up both wickets.

India IPL Cricket

Mumbai Indians’ Suryakumar Yadav, left, and Rohit Sharma run between the wickets (AP Photo/Manish Swarup)

Rohit Sharma then joined stand-in skipper Suryakumar Yadav, and the pair steadied the innings. Mumbai Indians were 41 for 2 at the end of the powerplay. The duo rotated strike well and added 53 runs for the third wicket before Rohit fell for 35 in the 10th over, dismissed by Axar Patel.After Rohit’s departure, Suryakumar continued to anchor the innings and brought up his fifty in 35 balls, but was dismissed on 51 off the very next delivery by Lungi Ngidi. Sherfane Rutherford had a brief stay, scoring five before getting caught in the deep.Next in, Naman Dhir scored a fine 28 before falling in the penultimate over. Mitchell Santner and Corbin Bosch struck a few boundaries towards the end, helping Mumbai Indians post 162 for 6.


Why did Suryakumar Yadav replace Hardik Pandya as Mumbai Indians captain vs Delhi Capitals? | Cricket News – The Times of India
tioo Sports
Why did Suryakumar Yadav replace Hardik Pandya as Mumbai Indians captain vs Delhi Capitals? | Cricket News – The Times of India


Why did Suryakumar Yadav replace Hardik Pandya as Mumbai Indians captain vs Delhi Capitals? | Cricket News – The Times of India
Suryakumar Yadav and Axar Patel (Image credit: BCCI/IPL)

NEW DELHI: Just moments before the toss, broadcasters announced that Mumbai Indians captain Hardik Pandya would not play in the match against Delhi Capitals at the Arun Jaitley Stadium in Delhi. Seconds after the announcement, Suryakumar Yadav – smiling, chewing gum, and dressed in the blue and gold jersey – walked out with the team sheet, shook hands with Ravi Shastri, and then greeted Delhi Capitals captain Axar Patel.What followed was a loud cheer from the Delhi crowd as they saw their T20 World Cup-winning captain Surya.The big question was: why was Surya leading the team, and why was Hardik missing such an important clash?The moment Axar won the toss and opted to field against Mumbai Indians, and spoke about his team combination, the focus quickly shifted to Surya.“(Hardik Pandya) He’s not well, doesn’t look good, so he was not fit for today’s game. So just getting into his shoes today,” Surya, who was the stand-in captain for the Delhi Capitals clash, said.

Watch

Sameer Rizvi on batting approach: simple mindset, big impact for DC

Mumbai Indians began their IPL 2026 campaign with a six-wicket win over Kolkata Knight Riders.Mumbai Indians brought in Deepak Chahar in place of Pandya.“(On the win against KKR) If you win the first game after 13-14 years, there’s a lot of positivity in the camp, and we’re very happy, but completely different venue here from Wankhede. We have to take good responsibility and have a good game here. (On the surface) Looks good, The toss was irrelevant. We wanted to bat first, they wanted to bowl first, but yeah, very happy to bat first. Looks good one. We’ve done here really well when we’ve batted first and defended. Quite a few changes. Deepak Chahar comes in for Hardik. Corbin Bosch comes in for Boulty, that’s a tactical change. Boulty had a good game in the last game at Wankhede. And Mitch Santner comes in for Allah Ghazanfar,” Surya said.Axar went with the same side against Mumbai Indians. “I choose to bowl first. First match at home, I want to see how the wicket is behaving. It looks a bit dry, a bit hard. We chased well in the last match. To chase down the target from 26/ 4 in the powerplay, it gives a lot of confidence to the group. Even the top-order know that there are batters in the lower order who can step up if they fail. Playing a home game is always beneficial. Our DC supporters will cheer for us. Same team,” Axar said. Teams:Delhi 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 KumarMumbai Indians (Playing XI): Rohit Sharma, Ryan Rickelton(w), Tilak Varma, Suryakumar Yadav(c), Naman Dhir, Sherfane Rutherford, Mitchell Santner, Corbin Bosch, Shardul Thakur, Deepak Chahar, Jasprit BumrahHere are the Impact substitutes for both the teams:Delhi Capitals Impact subs: Ashutosh Sharma, Auqib Nabi Dar, Sameer Rizvi, Dushmantha Chameera, Karun NairMumbai Indians Impact subs: Mayank Markande, Robin Minz, Raj Bawa, Trent Boult, Ashwani Kumar


‘When you’re not getting games … ‘: Kuldeep Yadav on staying IPL-ready despite limited chances in T20 World Cup | Cricket News – The Times of India
tioo Sports
‘When you’re not getting games … ‘: Kuldeep Yadav on staying IPL-ready despite limited chances in T20 World Cup | Cricket News – The Times of India


‘When you’re not getting games … ‘: Kuldeep Yadav on staying IPL-ready despite limited chances in T20 World Cup | Cricket News – The Times of India
Kuldeep Yadav (BCCI Photo)

NEW DELHI: Who wants to sit on the bench and watch teammates take the field? Who doesn’t want to see his name on the team sheet? It can be frustrating for any player. But Kuldeep Yadav handled it with remarkable calm.Whether it was carrying drinks, relaying the coach’s messages, bringing out bats, or applauding teammates with a smile, Kuldeep stayed fully involved with the team despite not being in the playing XI.In the recently-concluded T20 World Cup, where India lifted the title after defeating New Zealand in the final, teams often opted for spin-heavy combinations. Kuldeep was expected to play a bigger role, but that didn’t materialise.

Watch

Sameer Rizvi on batting approach: simple mindset, big impact for DC

India played eight matches in the tournament, including the final, but Kuldeep featured in just one game — the high-profile clash against Pakistan. He bowled three overs, conceded 14 runs and picked up one wicket.After that, he did not get another opportunity in the playing XI.Ahead of the IPL 2026 clash between Delhi Capitals and Mumbai Indians, Kuldeep spoke about dealing with the challenge of being benched.“Preparation becomes crucial, especially when you’re not getting games. I made sure there was no gap in my preparation so that whenever an opportunity came, I was ready,” Kuldeep told reporters ahead of the DC vs MI clash in New Delhi.“Even if you’re not playing, being with the team, attending practice sessions, and maintaining that match-ready mindset is important. Whether you play or not, your approach should always be that you’re ready for the next game,” he added.“Confidence comes from preparation. If your training and routines are in place, you will naturally feel confident, even though a bit of nervousness is always there,” Kuldeep said.Kuldeep also highlighted the importance of planning against batters.“Planning against batters is constant; you assess where they want to score and how they might approach you. With new batters, it becomes more challenging, but overall, preparation is what builds confidence,” he added.The 31-year-old is now eager to make his mark in IPL 2026.In Delhi Capitals’ opening match against Lucknow Super Giants, Kuldeep delivered a solid performance, picking up two wickets for 31 runs in four overs. He dismissed Mitchell Marsh and Mukul Choudhary in that game.He will now be up against Mumbai Indians in the upcoming clash.Kuldeep stressed the importance of sticking to one’s strengths, especially in the T20 format.“It’s very important for spinners to hold on to their strengths. Whenever batters put you under pressure, you tend to forget your strength. You look for a safer option to get out of that situation,” Kuldeep said.“If you are an attacking spinner, don’t let that go. Because that is your identity, and if you are doing that work for the team, taking wickets, there can be nothing better than that. Your mindset should be attacking,” he added.“Young spinners think that these are high-scoring matches and runs will be hit. Yes, you will be hit for runs because this is the T20 format. But you have to plan accordingly and be ready. It is not necessary that in four overs you will concede 40-45 runs. If there is a player who dominates, then it happens, or the wicket is very good for batting,” he said.


Rohit Sharma had clear plan about his fitness, form: Mahela Jayawardene | Cricket News – The Times of India
tioo Sports
Rohit Sharma had clear plan about his fitness, form: Mahela Jayawardene | Cricket News – The Times of India


Rohit Sharma had clear plan about his fitness, form: Mahela Jayawardene | Cricket News – The Times of India
Rohit Sharma (Image credit: BCCI/IPL)

NEW DELHI: Rohit Sharma isn’t missing any practice sessions with the Mumbai Indians team. In the nets on Friday afternoon at the Arun Jaitley stadium, he put his head down and mostly worked on perfecting his defensive technique. He refrained from playing the booming hits down the ground.Rohit is 26 days short of turning 39 but the 15 kgs shed by him make him look younger, almost unrecognisable. He is clearly on a mission to prove his worth as an international class cricketer even as he faces constant scrutiny over his place in the Indian team for the 2027 ODI World Cup. The journey started with honest conversations with the Mumbai Indians management last year.

Watch

Ajinkya Rahane press conference: KKR captain backs bowlers, hits back at SR critics

“He had a clear plan regarding his fitness. Some members of our set-up were involved in his training and he worked towards reaching a level he was comfortable with,” Mumbai Indians head coach Mahela Jayawardene said on Friday.“Even though he didn’t play much competitive cricket, he did a lot of skill work in the off-season. He joined us from first day of the camp and we had discussions on how to start. We ran several simulations and practice matches. For someone with his experience, a lot comes down to muscle memory and understanding situations,” he added.One of the major concerns around him is the lack of cricket he plays around the year after retiring from Tests and T20Is. He allayed those concerns in MI’s opening game against KKR with a explosive 38-ball 78.“Rohit’s case was slightly different since he hadn’t played much cricket. He focused on his fitness for a couple of months and then resumed skill work. Since he was in Mumbai, he used our facilities whenever possible but largely he knows what works best for him. He has stayed focused and relaxed and his presence has been very positive for the group. When I watched him in the nets, he looked in very good touch — his hand speed was excellent,” Jayawardene said.The true test of Rohit’s endurance, ability and fitness will be judged by his run-scoring consistency throughout the long IPL season.


‘I can come anywhere to meet you’: Ayush Mhatre on unforgettable time with Rohit Sharma | Cricket News – The Times of India
tioo Sports
‘I can come anywhere to meet you’: Ayush Mhatre on unforgettable time with Rohit Sharma | Cricket News – The Times of India


‘I can come anywhere to meet you’: Ayush Mhatre on unforgettable time with Rohit Sharma | Cricket News – The Times of India
Rohit Sharma and Ayush Mhatre (Agency Image)

Young batter Ayush Mhatre has opened up about a memorable meeting with his idol Rohit Sharma, describing it as a “dream day” that left a lasting impression on him.Mhatre’s admiration for Rohit has been well known. Earlier, he had even written an emotional note after losing his spot to the former India captain in a Ranji Trophy match. Ahead of his tour of England last year, the youngster finally got the chance to meet his idol — a meeting that turned into a cherished experience.

Watch

Rohit Sharma unleashed: MI coach explains tactical calls after explosive knock

Speaking on Chennai Super Kings’ YouTube channel, Mhatre revealed how a simple message led to a personal interaction with Rohit. The opportunity came after Rohit had earlier told him he could reach out whenever he needed guidance following his first IPL appearance against Mumbai Indians.Before departing for England, Mhatre decided to take that offer and sent Rohit a message requesting a meeting.“So I was about to go on the England tour, and I wanted to speak to him a bit. I messaged him. Then I said I wanted to meet him, so he directly called me himself. He called me from his side and said, tell me what you want to say. I told him that I am going on this tour and wanted to meet. He asked me, where do you stay? I said Virar. He said, will you come from Virar to meet me? I said yes, I can come anywhere to meet you, I just want to meet you,” said Mhatre.Despite Rohit suggesting they could simply speak over a video call, Mhatre was determined to meet him in person. The next day, he travelled to Rohit’s residence, where the two spent nearly two hours in conversation.“He said it’s not like that, we can also talk on video. I said no, I want to meet you personally and talk. Then he gave me his home address and I went to his house the next day. I spoke to him for at least 2 hours. I mean, it was crazy that he gave me so much time, that’s a big thing for me. My idol gave me time, so it was a dream for me, a dream day. I didn’t even realise how time passed, 2 hours went by. It felt really good talking to him,” he added.Since then, Mhatre has gone on to achieve success, leading India to the Under-19 World Cup title earlier this year. However, his IPL 2026 campaign began on a disappointing note, as he was dismissed for a golden duck against Rajasthan Royals.

Poll

Should young athletes reach out to their idols for guidance?

Meanwhile, Rohit has started the season in style, scoring a blistering 78 off 38 balls to guide Mumbai Indians to victory against Kolkata Knight Riders in a high-scoring chase of 221.For Mhatre, though, that meeting with his idol remains a defining personal milestone — one that continues to inspire his journey in the game.


Cameron Green breaks silence with action after Rahane’s cricket Australia remark | Cricket News – The Times of India
tioo Sports
Cameron Green breaks silence with action after Rahane’s cricket Australia remark | Cricket News – The Times of India


Cameron Green breaks silence with action after Rahane’s cricket Australia remark | Cricket News – The Times of India
Kolkata Knight Riders’ Cameron Green, right, and captain Ajinkya Rahane (AP Photo/Rafiq Maqbool)

Cameron Green bowling in the nets ahead of Kolkata Knight Riders’ IPL 2026 clash against Sunrisers Hyderabad has quickly become a major talking point. It comes just days after the Australian all-rounder did not bowl in KKR’s opening defeat to the Mumbai Indians at the Wankhede Stadium, where the team failed to defend 221 and concerns over their bowling balance came into focus.The situation gained traction after KKR captain Ajinkya Rahane was asked about Green’s absence with the ball and replied, “That question you need to ask Cricket Australia.” He also admitted that Green’s bowling would add balance to the side, turning what seemed like a tactical call into a wider debate about workload management, franchise planning, and the influence of national boards during the IPL. Cricket Australia soon clarified their stance, stating that there was no last-minute restriction. Green, they explained, has been managing a lower back issue and is gradually building up his bowling workload. The franchise was reportedly aware of this plan before the tournament began, with a rough timeline of 10 to 12 days set for his return as a bowling option. This shifted the narrative from confusion to careful rehabilitation. Against that backdrop, Green bowling in the nets carries weight. It does not confirm that he will immediately resume full duties in matches, but it signals progress after a week in which the issue threatened to overshadow KKR’s campaign. For a player signed for a massive ₹25.20 crore in the IPL 2026 auction, expectations have naturally been centred around his full all-round contribution rather than just his batting. The timing is crucial for KKR. Green was brought in to provide balance across departments, and his absence as a bowler in the opening game exposed a gap that the opposition exploited. The debate that followed also raised a larger question about how much control franchises truly have over high-value players when fitness and workload are being monitored externally. For now, the situation appears to be moving forward. The controversy began with Green not bowling when KKR needed options, intensified with Rahane’s public remarks, and has now entered a more hopeful phase, with the all-rounder back practising with the ball. Whether that translates into match overs in the coming games remains to be seen, but it has at least eased some of the early pressure surrounding one of KKR’s biggest signings.


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


LSG vs DC: Will Arjun Tendulkar find a place in the playing XI today? | Cricket News – The Times of India
tioo Sports
LSG vs DC: Will Arjun Tendulkar find a place in the playing XI today? | Cricket News – The Times of India


LSG vs DC: Will Arjun Tendulkar find a place in the playing XI today? | Cricket News – The Times of India
Will Arjun Tendulkar find a place in LSG’s playing XI against Delhi Capitals today?

Arjun Tendulkar’s move from Mumbai Indians to Lucknow Super Giants might have been a straight forward swap deal in the IPL trade window ahead of the IPL 2026 Auction, but it sure did grab the attention of the fans despite the trade window witnessing some seismic shifts like the Sanju Samson trade to from RR to CSK. And with LSG set to open their campaign against Delhi Capitals today at the Ekana International Stadium, the buzz is whether the allrounder finds a place in the LSG playing XI. LSG, who finished a lowly 7th in IPL 2025, would be aiming for a winning start with a squad led by Rishabh Pant. And unlike the previous year, where LSG struggled with injuries, this time around they have a fully fit squad with key additions like Mohammad Shami and Anrich Nortje, while the return of Mayank Yadav and Mohsin Khan from injuries bolsters their pace bowling riches.

Will Arjun Tendulkar Play Today?

And with that the question arises, will Arjun Tendulkar be able to find a place in the playing XI. Primarily a bowler, Tendulkar will face stiff competition from the likes of India international Avesh Khan, Mayank and Mohsin for a spot in the final XI with Shami expected to spearhead the attack. There are also a host of young fast bowlers in Prince Yadav, Akash Singh, Naman Tiwari and fast bowling allrounder Arshin Kulkarni who are vying for a place as well. Although the Mumbai Indians signed Tendulkar in IPL 2021, an injury ruled him out of the season before he was rebought by the franchise ahead of the 2022 season. And after being on the bench for the 2022 season, he eventually made his IPL debut in 2023 against Kolkata Knight Riders and went on to feature in five matches for MI, taking three wickets. Always in the shadows of his legendary father, Tendulkar’s every performance is scrutinised and linked, often tad unfairly, with Sachin, but Arjun has earned his stripes in domestic cricket over the years, taking 27 wickets in 24 T20s at a strike rate of 17.1 and an average of 25.07. He has also scored 119 runs at a strike rate of 123.95 in the format. After representing Mumbai early on, Arjun shifted his allegiance to Goa and boasts a List A wicket tally of 25 and 47 in first-class cricket, to go with two fifties and a hundred in FC. Earlier, ahead of LSG’s season opener, Tendulkar in a podcast revealed how he copes with the criticism directed at him. In an interview with Shubhankar Mishra, Arjun was asked: “How do you keep yourself so calm and cool?” Arjun replied: “I have 5 dogs in Goa & I spend time playing with them”. Shubhankar asked: “Do you have friends who are cricketers?” Arjun said: “I don’t really have cricketer friends, most of my friends don’t play cricket”. Shubhankar asked: “Are you scared for criticism?”. Arjun: said: No. I don’t.”