India’s Head Coach Gautam Gambhir (PTI Photo)

The Delhi High Court has directed major tech platforms, including Google, Meta, and Amazon, to remove objectionable online content that allegedly misuses the name and identity of former India cricketer and current head coach Gautam Gambhir for commercial gain.A single-judge bench led by Justice Jyoti Singh observed that the court would issue directions to take down flagged links and posts, while also asking platforms to provide details of the entities responsible for uploading such content.According to news agency IANS, Delhi High Court also granted protection to Gambhir’s personality and publicity rights, directing the removal of objectionable posts and content circulating online without his consent. During the hearing, it was contended on behalf of Gambhir that his name, voice and photographs were being exploited for commercial purposes without authorisation, including through the use of artificial intelligence (AI) tools and deepfake technology. The court further directed platforms to remove offending URLs and share Basic Subscriber Information (BSI) of those behind such posts.

Allegations of Digital Impersonation

The case stems from a plea filed by Gambhir in the Commercial Division of the Delhi High Court, alleging a “coordinated campaign of digital impersonation.” The petition claims that AI-driven tools, including face-swapping and voice-cloning technologies, were used to create misleading and fabricated content attributed to him.The suit names several defendants, including social media intermediaries and e-commerce platforms, accusing them of enabling the spread of such content and the unauthorised sale of merchandise using his identity.

Concerns Over Deepfake Content

Gambhir highlighted a surge in fake and misleading content across platforms such as Instagram, X, YouTube, and Facebook. Some of these deepfake videos reportedly went viral, attracting widespread attention. He argued that such misuse not only misleads the public but also causes significant reputational and professional harm, particularly given his role as the head coach of the Indian men’s cricket team.The plea seeks a permanent injunction restraining all defendants from using his name, image, voice or persona without consent, along with damages of Rs 2.5 crore and directions for removal of infringing content. The Gambhir case adds to a growing list of high-profile personalities invoking their personality and publicity rights before the Delhi High Court.In recent months, former India captain Sunil Gavaskar, spiritual leader and Art of Living founder Sri Sri Ravi Shankar, actors Nagarjuna, Kajol, Aishwarya Rai Bachchan, and Abhishek Bachchan, singer Jubin Nautiyal, film-maker Karan Johar, and podcaster Raj Shamani have secured court protection against the unauthorised use of their identity, likeness, or AI-generated imitations.

Sunil Gavaskar and Ranveer Singh (Agency Image)

With the Indian Premier League 2026 season just days away, an unexpected topic has captured the nation’s attention — Dhurandhar: The Revenge. Directed by Aditya Dhar and starring Ranveer Singh, the film has triggered a frenzy across the country, cutting through even the IPL buzz.The spy-action sequel, released last week, is enjoying a sensational run at the box office, raking in massive collections and shattering records. With demand for tickets skyrocketing, even one of India’s greatest cricketers, Sunil Gavaskar, has found it difficult to secure a seat in theatres.Veteran actor Rakesh Bedi, who plays a key role in the two-part film, revealed the amusing episode through a video on Instagram. While requesting fans to avoid sharing spoilers, Bedi recounted his recent meeting with Gavaskar and the unusual request that followed.“Talking about sports, yesterday I met one of the great sportspersons of India, the great Sunil Gavaskar ji. He said, ‘Rakesh ji, I am not able to get the tickets. So please arrange it for me,” said Bedi in the video.“So I am trying to arrange some tickets for him. I hope I am able to,” he added.The film is now on track to become the highest-grossing Bollywood movie of all time, a record currently held by its predecessor, Dhurandhar.The craze has extended into the cricketing world as well. Players from Gujarat Titans were recently seen visiting a theatre in Ahmedabad to watch the sequel, while Hardik Pandya, captain of Mumbai Indians, was also spotted at a multiplex enjoying the film.

Lalit Modi and Kavya Maran

NEW DELHI: A storm surrounding Abrar Ahmed’s signing in The Hundred continued to grow after former IPL chairman Lalit Modi posted a pointed message that appeared aimed at Kavya Maran and her franchise, Sunrisers Leeds.Go Beyond The Boundary with our YouTube channel. SUBSCRIBE NOW!Sunrisers Leeds, owned by the same group behind Sunrisers Hyderabad, picked Abrar for £190,000 (approx. Rs 2.34 crore) at the inaugural men’s Hundred auction in London. The move triggered a massive backlash in India, given the long-standing absence of Pakistani players from IPL-linked ecosystems.Without naming anyone directly, Lalit Modi wrote on X: “Investing 2.34 crore on a Pakistani player when the fans are already on edge? I know a thing or two about managing optics and building empires. Call me.”The controversy even led to Sunrisers Leeds’ social media account being temporarily suspended amid the outrage, underlining the scale of public reaction.Backlash, political undertones and Gavaskar’s remarksThe signing has also reignited political sensitivities tied to India-Pakistan relations. Pakistani players have not featured in the IPL since its inaugural 2008 season, following the 2008 Mumbai attacks and subsequent diplomatic fallout.The debate escalated after Sunil Gavaskar criticised the move, calling it an indirect way of funding Pakistan’s military — remarks that drew sharp reactions across the cricketing community.Pakistan-born England cricketer Azeem Rafiq slammed Gavaskar’s comments, posting: “This is absolutely ridiculous & should be condemned… Vile stuff.”Despite the uproar, a telecomasia.net report indicated that Abrar remains unfazed. Ranked third in the ICC T20I bowlers rankings, the mystery spinner is focused on his career and opportunities in global leagues.“The noise on Abrar’s signing is not unexpected, but he is not losing sleep over the uproar,” sources close to the Pakistan Cricket Board said.Franchise stands firm amid ECB scrutinySunrisers Leeds coach Daniel Vettori defended the decision, stating that Abrar was among several top overseas spinner options after they missed out on Adil Rashid.“Very pleased to get him,” Vettori said, backing the selection purely on cricketing merit.With tensions between India and Pakistan still strained following recent geopolitical flashpoints, Abrar’s signing has become more than just a cricketing decision.

Abrar Ahmed and Sunil Gavaskar

NEW DELHI: A fresh controversy has erupted in the cricketing world after Pakistan-born England cricketer Azeem Rafiq strongly criticised batting great Sunil Gavaskar for his remarks on Indian-owned franchises signing Pakistan players in overseas leagues.Go Beyond The Boundary with our YouTube channel. SUBSCRIBE NOW!The debate was triggered after Abrar Ahmed was picked by Sunrisers Leeds for £190,000 in The Hundred auction, making him the first Pakistan cricketer to join an Indian-owned team in the competition. The move sparked backlash among Indian fans, prompting Gavaskar to weigh in with a strong opinion.

Writing in his Mid-day column, Gavaskar said Indian-owned franchises should refrain from signing Pakistan players, arguing that such financial transactions could indirectly contribute to harm against India. “The furore… is hardly surprising,” he wrote, adding that payments made to players eventually go to their government through taxes, which could be used for military purposes. “If the owner is Indian then he or she is contributing to the Indian casualties. It’s as simple as that,” he stated, also warning of possible fan protests and boycotts.Rafiq, however, did not hold back in his response. Sharing Gavaskar’s comments on social media, he wrote: “This is absolutely ridiculous & should be condemned… How are these comments acceptable? I don’t care how many runs you have scored. Vile stuff from Gavaskar.” His sharp reaction quickly gained traction, adding another layer to the already heated debate.

After the Hundred auction, Sunrisers Leeds head coach Daniel Vettori defended the signing, insisting it was purely based on cricketing needs. He revealed that the franchise turned to Abrar after missing out on England leg-spinner Adil Rashid, highlighting the Pakistan spinner’s variations and effectiveness, especially in powerplays.Meanwhile, Rajeev Shukla clarified that the BCCI has no jurisdiction over franchise decisions in foreign leagues, leaving the matter entirely to the team management.The episode has once again spotlighted the complex intersection of sport, politics and public sentiment, with Rafiq’s blunt criticism ensuring that Gavaskar’s remarks remain firmly in the spotlight.

Sanju Samson and Kuldeep Yadav with the T20 World Cup trophy. (Pic credit: BCCI)

NEW DELHI: Batting legend Sunil Gavaskar believes life has “come full circle” for Sanju Samson after the wicketkeeper-batter scripted one of the most remarkable turnarounds in Indian cricket during the team’s historic ICC Men’s T20 World Cup triumph.Go Beyond The Boundary with our YouTube channel. SUBSCRIBE NOW!Samson, who began the tournament on the bench, emerged as the player of the tournament after producing three defining knocks in India’s knockout matches, including the semifinal against England and the final against New Zealand.Reflecting on Samson’s journey, Gavaskar said the Kerala batter had transformed adversity into the defining moment of his career.

“Life has come full circle for Sanju Samson,” Gavaskar said on Star Sports. “Before the 2026 T20 World Cup, he had a terrible series against New Zealand. He was dropped, then after the T20 World Cup started, he got a chance to play against Namibia, but his knock wasn’t enough to keep his spot.”Samson’s early struggles saw him sidelined again before India handed him another opportunity in the Super 8 stage.“He next played directly against Zimbabwe in the Super 8, but his real redemption began against West Indies in a virtual quarter-final,” Gavaskar explained.ALSO READ: ‘Samson is a combination of Kohli & Rohit’: Kumble after T20 WC masterclassThat innings sparked a sensational run. Samson followed up with a match-winning 97 not out against West Indies, an attacking 89 against England in the semifinal, and another 89 in the final against New Zealand, powering India to a commanding total before they sealed a crushing 96-run victory in Ahmedabad.Gavaskar emphasised that such performances in high-pressure situations define a cricketer’s legacy.“These games decide your fate and will define his career. Playing clutch knocks in high-pressure games takes something special,” he said.“To have the scar of failure and then play the best knocks of your career in three back-to-back high-pressure games — that is Sanju Samson.”The former India captain also highlighted the magnitude of India’s achievement in defending their world title.“Winning ICC trophies is not easy. Bilateral dominance is different. ICC tournaments have zero margin for error,” Gavaskar said. “Winning the T20 World Cup back-to-back is a massive achievement. This is the best moment in Indian cricket history.”

NEW DELHI: India legend Sunil Gavaskar lavished praise on vice-captain Axar Patel for his breathtaking fielding display in India’s nerve-wracking T20 World Cup semifinal win over England at Mumbai’s Wankhede Stadium. Gavaskar even compared Axar’s impact in the field to that of Ravindra Jadeja, saying the all-rounder has stepped up to fill the void left by one of India’s greatest fielders.Go Beyond The Boundary with our YouTube channel. SUBSCRIBE NOW!India had earlier piled up a mammoth 253/7, powered by a blistering knock from Sanju Samson. England’s chase, however, threatened to derail India’s hopes as Jacob Bethell produced a sensational century to keep his side firmly in the contest.

But Axar’s brilliance in the field repeatedly halted England’s momentum.The first moment of magic came early in the chase when Jasprit Bumrah deceived Harry Brook with a slower delivery. Brook miscued the shot high over cover, and Axar sprinted back nearly 24 metres before diving forward to complete a stunning catch inches above the turf.ALSO READ: Axar Patel picks tougher of his two ‘out of this world’ catches — Watch & choose yours“Axar Patel’s catch to dismiss Harry Brook was unbelievable. Brook can take the game away and you have to grab every chance to get his wicket and Axar did that,” Gavaskar said while speaking on JioHotstar.“He ran 24 meters away from his fielding spot, kept his eyes on the ball, balanced himself and took the catch. Unbelievable stuff.”Axar wasn’t done yet. Later in the innings, when Will Jacks threatened to push England closer to the daunting target alongside Bethell, Axar produced another moment of brilliance. Chasing a sliced shot toward deep point, he ran hard across the turf, grabbed the ball while losing balance near the boundary rope and cleverly relayed it to Shivam Dube, who completed the catch.“He also played a key role in Will Jacks’ dismissal. The Bethell-Jacks partnership was taking the game away. But Axar ran to his left, grabbed the ball and smartly passed it to Shivam Dube,” Gavaskar added.Gavaskar believes Axar’s rise as a complete cricketer mirrors the impact Jadeja once had for India.“With his batting and bowling, Axar is going to be one of India’s great players. We had Ravindra Jadeja before him and Axar is filling that void well,” he said.

Abhishek Sharma in action during the T20 World Cup 2026 match against Zimbabwe in Chennai on February 26, 2026
| Photo Credit: B. Jothi Ramalingam

Pakistan’s former Prime Minister Imran Khan (AP Photo)

A number of prominent figures from the cricketing world — including Indian icons Kapil Dev and Sunil Gavaskar — have extended support to former Pakistan all-rounder Imran Khan, who has been incarcerated for more than two years. Reports suggest that Khan, Pakistan’s Prime Minister from 2018 to 2022, has nearly lost vision in one eye, allegedly due to medical negligence during his imprisonment. He was ousted from office following multiple corruption charges.The push for better treatment of Khan gathered momentum earlier this week when former Australia captain Greg Chappell initiated a petition urging authorities to ensure proper medical care for the jailed leader. The appeal has been endorsed by several former international captains.In a conversation with Australian journalists Gideon Haigh and Peter Lalor, Chappell explained what prompted him to take action.“And so, you know, I’ve been following and keeping in contact with him as much as possible, but since he’s been in jail, it’s been impossible. I’m in touch with one of his very best friends on a regular basis, and not even his family have been able to see him while he’s in jail. So, this has been sort of troubling me for a while, but I thought, well… What difference does one voice make? And it was in conversation with my friend [name not clear], and he said, Well, why don’t you talk to other captains, and see if you can get a group of captains that make a statement that that might carry a bit more weight.”Given the long-standing political tensions between India and Pakistan, and Khan’s firm stance toward India during his tenure as Prime Minister, public backing from Indian cricket greats was far from certain. Although Khan had visited India multiple times as both a cricketer and political leader and had forged personal bonds there, many of his Indian acquaintances had stayed silent following his imprisonment.Chappell admitted he was struck by how swiftly Gavaskar and Kapil agreed to support the initiative. “Sunil Gavaskar and Kapil Dev probably had more pressure than the rest of us, but they both reacted instantly. You’ve probably seen Sunny’s comments… They’ve been friends for a long time,” he said.Earlier, Gavaskar had spoken about his long association with Khan in remarks that drew attention on both sides of the border. “I have known Imran since he was 17 years old, when India was playing at Worcester… after the Test series win at The Oval. He was trying to qualify as an overseas player for Worcestershire then. Whatever the political differences there, we believe that he should be looked after in a humane manner and given proper medical care,” he told The Indian Express.Others who have signed the petition include Ian Chappell, Clive Lloyd, Allan Border, Michael Atherton, Nasser Hussain, Michael Brearley, David Gower, Steve Waugh, John Wright, Kim Hughes and Belinda Clark.

Imran Khan (Image credit: AFP)

NEW DELHI: Indian greats Sunil Gavaskar and Kapil Dev are among 14 former international captains who have expressed “deep concern” over the reported decline in the health of jailed cricketer-turned-politician Imran Khan. In a joint appeal, they have called on the Pakistan government to ensure he is provided adequate medical attention and treated with dignity in line with international norms.According to reports, the 1992 World Cup-winning skipper has allegedly lost close to 85 per cent of vision in his right eye due to medical neglect while lodged at Adiala Jail in Rawalpindi.

The group sent a letter titled “Appeal by former International Cricket Captains” to Pakistani authorities, urging fair treatment for Khan. Notably, the signatories do not include a single former Pakistan cricketer.“We, the undersigned former captains of our national cricket teams, write with deep concern regarding the reported treatment and incarceration conditions of Imran Khan, the distinguished former Captain of Pakistan and a legendary figure in world cricket,” the letter said.“Recent reports concerning his health — particularly the alarming deterioration of his vision while in custody — and the conditions of his imprisonment over the past two and a half years have caused us profound concern.“As fellow cricketers who understand the values of fair play, honour, and respect that transcend the boundary rope, we believe that a person of Imran Khan’s stature deserves to be treated with the dignity and basic human consideration befitting a former national leader and a global sporting icon.”The appeal was also signed by Michael Atherton, Allan Border, Michael Brearley, Greg Chappell, Ian Chappell, Belinda Clark, David Gower, Kim Hughes, Nasser Hussain, Clive Lloyd, Steve Waugh and John Wright.

In 2023, Khan, who also served as Pakistan’s Prime Minister, was handed a 14-year prison sentence in a corruption case.The former captains called for comprehensive medical care, transparent legal proceedings and humane conditions for the 73-year-old.“We respectfully urge the Government of Pakistan to ensure that Imran Khan receives: Immediate, adequate and ongoing medical attention from qualified specialists of his choosing to address his reported health issues.“Humane and dignified conditions of detention in line with international standards, Including regular visits by close family members. Fair and transparent access to legal processes without undue delay or hindrance.“Cricket has long been a bridge between nations. Our shared history on the field reminds us that rivalry ends when the stumps are drawn-and respect endures. Imran Khan embodied that spirit throughout his career.”The letter further urged authorities to uphold the principles of “decency and justice”.“This appeal is made in the spirit of sportsmanship and common humanity, without prejudice to any legal proceedings.”It also highlighted Khan’s legacy both as a cricketer and a political leader.“Imran Khan’s contributions to the game are universally admired. As captain, he led Pakistan to their historic 1992 Cricket World Cup victory a triumph built on skill, resilience, leadership, and sportsmanship that inspired generations across borders.“Many of us competed against him, shared the field with him, or grew up idolizing his all-round brilliance, charisma, and competitive spirit. He remains one of the finest all-rounders and captains the sport has ever seen, earning respect from players, fans, and administrators alike.“Beyond cricket, Imran Khan served as Prime Minister of Pakistan, leading his nation during a challenging period. Regardless of political perspectives, he holds the honour of having been democratically elected to the highest office in his country.”