Royal Challengers Bengalurusuperstar Virat Kohlionce again proved why he is called the chase master. Even after battling fever and knee discomfort, Kohli returned in a never-seen-before role as an Impact Sub and delivered a stunning match-winning knock to take back the IPL 2026 Orange Cap.

His fearless return has now sent social media into celebration mode, with fans saying just one thing — “King Kohli is unstoppable.” Community reactions across cricket forums also exploded after he reclaimed the top run-scorer spot.

First Time Ever! Virat Kohli Played as Impact Sub

In a surprising move during the RCB vs Lucknow Super Giants clash on April 15, Virat Kohli was not named in the starting XI because he was recovering from illness and a sore knee.

Instead, RCB brought him in later as an Impact Substitute — the first time this has happened in Kohli’s IPL career. Fans were shocked, but the move turned into a masterstroke.

Kohli’s 49 Changed the Entire Match

RCB were chasing a small target of 147, but Kohli made sure there was no drama.

He attacked right from the powerplay, smashing:

• 49 runs off 34 balls
• 6 boundaries
• 1 six
• Strike rate above 144

He raced to 40 in just 20 balls and almost killed the game before getting out. RCB comfortably chased the target in just 15.1 overs to seal a five-wicket win over LSG.

Orange Cap Back on Kohli’s Head

• This innings pushed Virat Kohli to the No.1 spot in IPL 2026 run charts.
  
  After the LSG game, Kohli had:
  
• 228 runs in 5 innings
• Average of 57+
• Strike rate above 158

He jumped past Heinrich Klaasen and Rajat Patidar to reclaim the Orange Cap. And interestingly, fans online were not even surprised. 

Kohli Reveals He Was Still Not Fully Fit

After the match, Virat Kohli openly admitted that he was still not fully fit. The Royal Challengers Bengaluru star revealed that his knee was sore from the previous game and that he had also been feeling unwell for the last four to five days.

Despite these health concerns, Kohli said he was trying to slowly get back into his best rhythm. What made his performance even more special was the fact that he looked completely in control during the chase and played with the same confidence fans are used to seeing from him. This is why many fans and experts are already calling it one of the most crucial knocks of IPL 2026 so far.

RCB’s Title Defence Looking Strong

Kohli’s brilliant form is now becoming the biggest strength for defending champions RCB. With the team climbing higher on the points table, Kohli scoring consistently at the top, and the batting unit looking solid, Bengaluru once again appear to be one of the strongest title contenders this season.

His recent innings not only helped RCB secure another important win but also brought the Orange Cap back to his head, proving that his hunger for runs remains as dangerous as ever.

Final Words

The biggest takeaway from this match was simple — Virat Kohli came in as an Impact Sub, Virat Kohli was not fully fit, and Virat Kohli still ended the night as the Orange Cap holder. That alone tells the full story.

Whenever RCB need calmness, aggression, and match-winning control, Kohli continues to be their biggest answer. And if he is producing these kinds of innings while not even at 100 percent fitness, IPL 2026 bowlers have every reason to be worried.

Viral Video Exposes IPL Dugout Rules Breach

As per regulations a team manager can carry a cell phone with himself but is prohibited from carrying it into the dugout. The only one allowed to use any electronic gadget in the dugout is the team analyst and that too at the designated 'analyst' table.
The issue gained traction only after the video clip went viral on social media, though it was largely missed during the live broadcast of the match in the stadium. Vaibhav Sooryavanshi can be seen sitting next to Bhinder and looking at the phone which was briefly held by him. 

Senior Official: Warning or Ban for Bhinder

A senior official said that he can expect some action ranging from a warning to possibly an in-match ban.
“It could be inadvertent, but there has to be some action since it amounts to a breach. Whether it will be a warning or a match ban will depend on the match referee’s and ACU’s reports. Based on that, the IPL Governing Council will take a call,” the official said.

Lalit Modi Slams 'Complete No-No' Incident

Former IPL Chairman Lalit Modi too had pointed out the incident on social media and asked where all the anti-corruption officers were while describing it as a "complete no-no" and called for stringent action.
“Having a mobile phone in the dugout is a complete no-no. Did this really happen? I hope not. If it did, then the IPL governing council needs to take immediate action,” he said.

ACU Probe May Lead to Fine or Dugout Ban

An IPL team dug-out is considered a sensitive zone and such things can not be overlooked to curb outside influence into the match. Modi had earlier pointed out the matter on social media questioning the location of the Anti-Corruption and Security Unit (ACSU) officers.
It is expected that the Board of Control for Cricket in India's Anti-Corruption Unit will investigate the matter and later submit a report to the head of the ACU and a decision on the punishment for Bhinder will be announced. He could be punished with either a fine or a ban from PMOA which would prevent him from entering the dug out and the dressing room for subsequent matches.

CSK Sets a Target of 212

Batting first, CSK set an impressive target of 212 runs for 6 in their allotted 20 overs. The standout performer was Sanju Samson, who scored an unbeaten century of 115 runs off just 56 balls. His explosive innings included four towering sixes and 15 boundaries, and he formed key partnerships along the way—62 runs with Ruturaj Gaikwad, who contributed 15, and a massive 113 runs with Ayush Mhatre, who added 59 off 36 balls. Samson also shared an unbroken 37-run stand with Shivam Dube, who chipped in with 20 runs.

DC Falls Short at 189 Runs

In response, Delhi Capitals started their chase with determination, aiming to keep pace with the required run rate. However, CSK’s bowlers were relentless, striking at crucial moments to disrupt the flow of the game. Despite some spirited performances from Pathum Nissanka, who scored 41 off 24 balls, and Tristan Stubbs, who managed 60 off 38, Delhi fell short of the target, finishing their innings at 189.
Jamie Overton shone with the ball for CSK, taking 4 wickets for just 18 runs, while Gurjapneet Singh and Anshul Kamboj also made valuable contributions with the ball.

Gaikwad Praises Bowling and Samson

CSK Skipper Ruturaj Gaikwad said, "Yes, obviously, feels good to finally get that win and to come here and speak to you. But I think it was great performance to start with. I always felt that coming here, we have been batting really well, batting first and to post 200-210 when the wicket is slightly on the slower side and still posting that good total, I think we were showing really good signs even the last game which we played here. But as I said, today again it was one of those knocks where Sanju actually took to the opposition, played a magnificent knock, even Ayush played brilliantly. But it was about bowling today. It was about wickets in the middle or bowling that aggressive lengths and sticking to your plans, keep it really simple. So, really proud of the bowling effort” regarding the win.

Playing Xl: DC AND CSK

Chennai Super Kings Playing XI:Sanju Samson (wk), Ruturaj Gaikwad (c), Ayush Mhatre, Sarfaraz Khan, Shivam Dube, Dewald Brevis, Jamie Overton, Noor Ahmad, Anshul Kamboj, Gurjapneet Singh, Khaleel Ahmed
Delhi Capitals Playing XI:KL Rahul (wk), Pathum Nissanka, Sameer Rizvi, Axar Patel (c), David Miller, Tristan Stubbs, Auqib Nabi, Lungi Ngidi, Kuldeep Yadav, T Natarajan, Mukesh Kumar

SRH's Openers Score 120 Runs

Sunrisers Hyderabad set a formidable target, scoring 219 runs for the loss of six wickets. They were supported by an explosive partnership of 120 runs between Abhishek Sharma, who scored 74 runs off just 28 balls, and Travis Head, who contributed 38 runs from 23 balls. Their momentum took a hit when both openers were dismissed in quick succession by Shashank Singh, which slowed down their innings. 

Iyer's 69 Guides Easy Chase

In response, the Punjab Kings wasted no time in their chase. Priyansh Arya scored a quickfire 57 runs off 20 balls, while Prabhsimran Singh added a solid 51 runs off 25 deliveries. Captain Shreyas Iyer played a brilliant knock, remaining unbeaten at 69 runs off 33 balls, as PBKS reached their target with 6 wickets in hand and just 18.5 overs on the clock. With this victory, the Punjab Kings made history by becoming the first IPL team to successfully chase down 200-plus totals on ten occasions.

Captain Praises Powerplay Start

Shreyas Iyer, PBKS captain said, "Firstly I would like to say that we have got a phenomenal start, when you are chasing 220, you need such starts and the way they showed how to play powerplay, it was magnificent to watch. And it was pleasing to the eye, it was proper cricketing shots and they steadied the rhythm at the start and then it was kind of, I wouldn't say easy, but just to maintain that momentum, especially going in, I just said that I have to give myself a little bit of time in between and once I gauge the pace of the wicket, I'll be able to capitalise on it. And thankfully it worked out" after the win.

Playing Xl: PBKS AND SRH

Sunrisers Hyderabad:Abhishek Sharma, Travis Head, Ishan Kishan (c & wk), Heinrich Klaasen, Salil Arora, Aniket Verma, Nitish Kumar Reddy, Harsh Dubey, Shivang Kumar, Harshal Patel, Eshan Malinga
Punjab Kings:Prabhsimran Singh (wk), Priyansh Arya, Cooper Connolly, Shreyas Iyer (c), Shashank Singh, Marcus Stoinis, Marco Jansen, Xavier Bartlett, Vijaykumar Vyshak, Arshdeep Singh, Yuzvendra Chahal

Unbeaten 54 Off 27, Hit 7 Sixes

With the scoreboard reading 128 for 7 in the 16th over and just 54 runs needed for victory, the pressure was on. Star players like Mitchell Marsh, Aiden Markram, Rishabh Pant, Nicholas Pooran, and Ayush Badoni had already departed, leaving LSG in a precarious position. But Mukul was not about to back down. He launched a stunning counterattack, finishing with an unbeaten 54 runs off just 27 balls. His explosive innings included seven massive sixes, leading Lucknow to a nail-biting victory off the last ball, triumphing by three wickets.
In the tense final over, Vaibhav Arora had the challenge of defending 13 runs. Though he delivered some clever wide yorkers, he ultimately could not stop Mukul. 

Dedicates Win to Dad

When Mukul was awarded the Player of the Match, he reflected on his father’s unwavering support for his cricketing dreams. This match was particularly special for him, as it marked only his second outing under the lights, and he expressed his joy at helping the team secure a victory in such a thrilling manner.
“My journey started when my father was not even married, his dream was his son has to play cricket. I started at the age group level but there were not good academies. I played matches in Delhi and Guragaon and that helped me. When I was playing against U19 versus UP, it was a low scoring game and I made a contribution, so he knew then that I would make it big. It was only my second match under lights. God has given me this opportunity, there can be pressure but it is also an opportunity to make a name for myself,” Mukul said.

INR 2.6 Cr Auction Purchase

Lucknow Super Giants acquired Mukul for an impressive INR 2.6 crore during the IPL auction, beating out competition from franchises like the Mumbai Indians and Rajasthan Royals. His base price was INR 30 lakhs, meaning his value almost multiplied ninefold. Mukul’s standout performance in the Syed Mushtaq Ali Trophy played a significant role in his high price tag; he scored 173 runs in five innings, boasting a remarkable strike rate of 198.85.

From Pacer to Keeper-Batter

Originally a medium pacer, Mukul made a swift transition to wicketkeeping, where he became known for his aggressive batting style. He made his first-class debut against Chhattisgarh in January 2023, scoring 103 runs across four matches with a top score of 45. He also debuted in T20 cricket against Jharkhand in October 2023, scoring 35 runs as an opener. To date, he has amassed 226 runs in 7 T20 games, averaging 37.66, with a highest score of 62 not out.

Royals Hit 150 in 11 Overs

Yashasvi Jaiswal was the star of the show, smashing an impressive unbeaten 77 runs off just 32 balls. He was well supported by Sooryavanshi, who contributed a quickfire 39 off 14 balls. Together, they formed an impressive opening partnership, adding 80 runs in just 4.6 overs and helping the Royals post a challenging total of 150 for 3 in their shortened innings.

MI Drop to 23/3 Early

In response, the Mumbai Indians struggled right from the start. They lost three wickets in a chaotic powerplay, finishing the first three overs at a disheartening 23 for 3. Big names like Rohit Sharma (5), Suryakumar Yadav (6), and Hardik Pandya (9) could not find their rhythm under pressure as they chased a daunting target of 151 runs.
Though Tilak Varma (14) and skipper Hardik Pandya (9) attempted to stabilize the innings with some boundaries, Rajasthan’s bowlers maintained their grip on the game with consistent breakthroughs. A brief flurry of runs came from Sherfane Rutherford who scored 25 off eight balls. However, Sandeep Sharma quickly turned the tide back in Rajasthan's favor with a stunning catch to dismiss Rutherford.
In the end, the Mumbai Indians could only muster 116 runs in their 11 overs, falling short of their target. 

Parag Praises Strong Core

Riyan Parag, RR captain said, “Feels great. I think the way the boys have showed up, can't ask for anything more. Kudos to them. I always knew that this team was a strong team even at the auction. We have a strong core. Jofra's messaging is go and bowl as fast as you can, even Nandre as well. Vaibhav and Jaiswal as well. Don't have words to express. No. 1 opening pair in this combination” after the win.

Playing Xl: MI AND RR

Mumbai Indians Playing XI -Rohit Sharma, Ryan Rickelton(w), Tilak Varma, Suryakumar Yadav, Hardik Pandya(c), Naman Dhir, Shardul Thakur, Deepak Chahar, AM Ghazanfar, Trent Boult, Jasprit Bumrah
Rajasthan Royals Playing XI -Vaibhav Sooryavanshi, Yashasvi Jaiswal, Dhruv Jurel(w), Riyan Parag(c), Shimron Hetmyer, Donovan Ferreira, Ravindra Jadeja, Jofra Archer, Nandre Burger, Tushar Deshpande, Sandeep Sharma

RCB Scores A Huge Total of 250

In a game that started with a hint of struggle, Devdutt Padikkal’s impressive half-century helped RCB regain their footing after the early loss of star player Virat Kohli. As the pitch began to settle, RCB found their rhythm, showcasing an electrifying performance highlighted by Tim David’s remarkable innings of 70 runs off just 25 balls, which included an astonishing eight sixes. Rajat Patidar also made a significant contribution, finishing with an unbeaten 48 runs off 19 balls. Because of the 97 runs scored in the last five overs—RCB posted a total of 250 for 3, marking the highest score of the season against CSK.

CSK Loses Early Wickets

On the other hand, theChennai Super Kingsstruggled to find the ir footing in the chase. Early wickets, including those of captain Ruturaj Gaikwad and Sanju Samson, set them back significantly. Despite a spirited effort from Sarfaraz Khan, who scored a half-century, CSK found themselves playing catch-up as wickets fell at crucial moments.
Prashant Veer and Jamie Overton made some attempts to keep CSK in the game with their big hits, but it wasn’t enough to turn the tide. Ultimately, CSK was bowled out for 207 runs in just 19.4 overs, handing RCB a convincing 43-run victory and putting them to the top of the table. 

Rajat Hails Team's Big Win

RCB Skipper Rajat Patidar said, “It feels great, but at the same time, if you play good cricket and give a lot of satisfaction among the team. I think initially the ball was stopping a bit. The way Phil and Virat bhai played innings, I think that was super. And after that, the way the team changed the way, I think I enjoyed a lot of sixes from the dugouts and from the non-striker end. Yes, I think my mindset was pretty clear. As long as I'm there, I always try to put the pressure on the bowler. And at the same time, I'm lucky that team was there. So yeah, as I said, I was enjoying the sixes. (On David) He's a specialist and he's one of the best finishers, I would say. And I think I enjoyed a lot.”

Playing Xl's: CSK AND RCB

Chennai Super Kings XI:Sanju Samson(w), Ruturaj Gaikwad(c), Ayush Mhatre, Sarfaraz Khan, Shivam Dube, Prashant Veer, Jamie Overton, Noor Ahmad, Anshul Kamboj, Matt Henry, Khaleel Ahmed
Royal Challengers Bengaluru XI:Philip Salt, Virat Kohli, Devdutt Padikkal, Rajat Patidar(c), Jitesh Sharma(w), Tim David, Romario Shepherd, Krunal Pandya, Bhuvneshwar Kumar, Abhinandan Singh, Jacob Duffy

MI Bats Poor, Scores 162/6

Winning the toss, the Capitals opted to field first, putting the Mumbai Indians on the back foot from the start. The opening partnership faltered, with just 18 runs on the board when Mukesh Kumar struck, claiming the wicket of Ryan Rickelton. He soon followed up with another key breakthrough, sending Tilak Varma back to the pavilion.
Rohit Sharma and Suryakumar Yadav then stepped up for MI, stabilizing the innings with a vital partnership. They added 53 runs together before a stunning catch by Nitish Rana sent Sharma walking back to the dugout. 

Yadav continued to anchor the innings, pushing the score to a respectable total, but the Capitals recognized the danger posed by the partnership between Yadav and Naman Dhir. Just when things looked promising for MI, Delhi managed to dismiss Yadav, turning the tide in their favor. Despite Dhir’s efforts alongside Mitchell Santner, the Capitals’ bowlers kept taking wickets, limiting Mumbai to 162 runs for six wickets after their 20 overs.

DC Chases Easy, Wins by 6 Wickets

Delhi’s innings got off to a rocky start, but a strong partnership of 66 runs for the third wicket between Rizvi and Pathum Nissanka steadied the ship. Although Nissanka's dismissal gave Mumbai hope, Rizvi stood his ground, playing a stellar innings of 90. By the time he departed, the Capitals needed just 12 runs to seal the win. David Miller and Tristan Stubbs ensured there were no further hiccups as they guided the team to victory with six wickets in hand, marking the Capitals’ second win of the tournament.

Next: DC vs GT on April 8

With this win, Delhi Capitals now sit at the top of the table with 4 points. They will be looking to maintain their momentum when they return home to face the Gujarat Titans on Wednesday, April 8th, at 7:30 PM IST (2 PM GMT).
Meanwhile, the Mumbai Indians, with one win and one loss so far, will regroup and aim to bounce back in their next match against the Rajasthan Royals in Guwahati on Tuesday, April 7th, at 7:30 PM IST. 

Playing XIs: MI and DC

Mumbai Indians Playing XI: Rohit Sharma, Ryan Rickelton (wk), Suryakumar Yadav (c), Tilak Varma, Naman Dhir, Sherfane Rutherford, Mitchell Santner, Corbin Bosch, Shardul Thakur, Deepak Chahar, Jasprit Bumrah
Delhi Capitals Playing XI: KL Rahul (wk), Pathum Nissanka, Nitish Rana, Vipraj Nigam, Axar Patel (c), David Miller, Tristan Stubbs, Kuldeep Yadav, Lungi Ngidi, T Natarajan, Mukesh Kumar

PBKS Bowls First on New Pitch

Winning the toss, PBKS chose to bowl first at the MA Chidambaram Stadium. Iyer explained his decision, mentioning the fresh pitch and his desire to see how it would behave early in the game.

The CSK innings saw a significant 96-run partnership for the second wicket between Mhatre and Ruturaj Gaikwad, who contributed 28 runs off 22 balls. Sarfaraz Khan added some firepower with a quick 32 off just 12 deliveries, while Shivam Dube remained not out on 45 from 27 balls. 

Iyer Praises Openers' Start

PBKS captain Shreyas Iyer said, “Well, obviously, there's a worry before getting onto the field, but the way we started today, I think that was an exceptional start for us. Priyansh and Prab doing the job at the start and then setting the bench for us going inside. And I personally feel that the way they've been batting over years now, it's phenomenal to see them giving us that start and it stabilizes the rhythm for us. Yes, absolutely. I'm glad that everyone is getting to bat in the first two games itself. That gives immense confidence for the team as well. So that, you know, whenever we are stuck in a pressure situation, people are aware of how to handle it” regarding the win.

Gaikwad Sees Good Bat, Bad Bowl

After the match, Ruturaj Gaikwad reflected on the innings, stating that they had set a respectable target given the boundary dimensions and the way the slower balls were gripping the pitch. He noted that with three seamers already in play, they had hoped that Rahul Chahar and Noor Ahmad would create a strong bowling partnership in the middle overs. Despite the required run rate climbing to 11 at one point, he felt they struggled to apply enough pressure with the ball but acknowledged the positives in their performance, especially praising the batting of Mhatre and Dube.

MI's Chase: Rohit, Rickelton, Thakur Shine

Mumbai Indians led a record chase against Kolkata Knight Riders, pursuing 221 in 19.1 overs and winning by 6 wickets. Rohit Sharma played an excellent innings of 78 off 38 balls, while Ryan Rickelton came in with a support knock of 81. It is notable that Rohit also surpassed the Virat Kohli record of most runs scored against the opponent team. Hardik Pandya and Tilak Varma also gave match-winning performances. Naman Dhir ended the match with a stylish boundary, giving MI their first season-opener win since 2012 and also made their biggest chase ever in IPL history. Their previous biggest chase was 219 against Delhi Capitals in 2021.

KKR scored 220/4, fueled by Ajinkya Rahane's 67 off 40 with three fours and five sixes, and Angkrish Raghuvanshi's late surge with six boundaries. Rinku Singh finished with an unbeaten 33 off 21 balls. Opting to bowl, Shardul Thakur (3/39) took the most wickets for MI.

Hardik: 'Long Wait Over, Bowlers Brilliant!'

MI Captain Hardik Pandya is glad that MI ended the opening match 'jinx’.
He said, “Obviously it’s been a long wait [to win the season opener]. Everytime we’ve come we wanted to start the season on a high. The whole group is very glad we were able to do it. [On chasing big totals now] Modern cricket, plus we’ve seen what this wicket plays like. Credit to the bowlers, not letting KKR fly away to 240s or 250s. Those become tough targets but 220 is always chaseable. Rohit and Rickelton were outstanding. [On picking between Ricks and QDK] Ryan has done very well for us last year. And Quinny is a top man. He understood that we are backing the man, and having continuity. Glad it worked. Whenever I see Ro play some shots, it opens everyone’s mouth. Nothing short of excellent, nothing short of outstanding. [On Thakur] I told him, enough hopping franchises. You have to be here for the rest of your career. The way he outsmarts batters, the way he bowls, brilliant.”

MI & KKR Playing XIs

Kolkata Knight Riders (Playing XI): Finn Allen, Ajinkya Rahane(c), Cameron Green, Angkrish Raghuvanshi(w), Rinku Singh, Ramandeep Singh, Anukul Roy, Sunil Narine, Varun Chakaravarthy, Vaibhav Arora, Blessing Muzarabani
Mumbai Indians (Playing XI):Rohit Sharma, Ryan Rickelton(w), Tilak Varma, Hardik Pandya(c), Sherfane Rutherford, Naman Dhir, Shardul Thakur, Mayank Markande, AM Ghazanfar, Trent Boult, Jasprit Bumrah

50 Matches in 12 Cities

Action picks up again on April 13, 2026 when Sunrisers Hyderabad will face Rajasthan Royals at Hyderabad. After this first match, the remaining 50 matches of the league stage will be held between April 13 and May 24, 2026 in 12 cities of India.

Following the first phase of the tournament, matches will be held in the cities of Bengaluru, Mumbai, Chennai, Kolkata, Delhi, Ahmedabad, Hyderabad, Lucknow, Jaipur, Dharamshala, Raipur and New Chandigarh. 

Double Headers on 12 Days

On days when one match will be played, it will be held at 7:30 pm IST, whereas on days with two games, the first one or the afternoon fixture will be at 3:30 pm IST.
There will be a total of 12 days that will have double headers i.e. two games on the same day. According to a statement issued by the BCCI , the venues and dates for the playoffs and the final will only be revealed later.

Fresh Format: Once in Group, Twice vs Rivals

Teams have been divided into two groups depending on how many titles they have won. So, Group A consists of: CSK (5), Kolkata Knight Riders (3), Rajasthan Royals (1), RCB (1) and Punjab Kings whereas Group B consists of: MI (5), Sunrisers Hyderabad (1), Gujarat Titans (1), Delhi Capitals and Lucknow Super Giants.
Usually, in the past three years teams belonging to the same group played each other twice and once against teams of the opposite group. This year IPL has changed that format by having teams of the same group playing each other once and twice against teams of the opposite group.

Aditya Birla Group, Times Group, Blitzer, Blackstone Join Purchase

Leading the consortium is the renowned Aditya Birla Group (ABG), headed by Kumar Mangalam Birla, in collaboration with The Times of India Group (ToI). They are joined by Bolt Ventures, led by American sports magnate David Blitzer, who holds significant stakes in the Philadelphia 76ers and Crystal Palace. Additionally, the international private equity powerhouse Blackstone is involved, operating through its Blackstone Private Equity Strategies.
Under the new leadership structure, Aryaman Vikram Birla, Director of the Aditya Birla Group and a former professional cricketer, will take on the role of Franchise Chairman. Satyan Gajwani, Chairman of Times Internet, has been appointed as Vice Chairman.

Kumar Birla Hails IPL's Global Impact

Kumar Mangalam Birla emphasized the transformative impact the IPL has had on Indian cricket, highlighting the significance of this acquisition.
He said, "Over the past 2 decades, the IPL has morphed to become a global sporting powerhouse that has changed the face of Indian cricket creating enormous value for India. RCB, as one of the most compelling franchises in modern sport, offers the Aditya Birla Group a distinctive platform to extend its legacy of institution-building into the arena of global sport. We are delighted to become custodians of this asset and committed to further building this extraordinary legacy.”

Somani Group Bags Rajasthan Royals for $1.63B

In a busy day for the IPL, another consortium, founded by business magnate Kal Somani and backed by families linked to Walmart and Ford, reportedly won the Rajasthan Royals franchise for USD 1.63 billion (around Rs 15,342 crore).
This group includes Rob Walton from the Walmart family and members of the Hamp family, associated with Ford Motor Company. Somani, an Arizona-based tech entrepreneur, is known for his ventures like IntraEdge (providing technology services and solutions), Truyo.Ai (focusing on data privacy and AI governance), and Academian (offering edtech services).
The deal was finalized on Tuesday but awaits official approval from the Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI) and the Competition Commission of India.

Permanent Empty Seats at Chinnaswamy

To commemorate those who were lost, RCB will permanently reserve 11 seats at the M Chinnaswamy Stadium, leaving them empty as a symbol of remembrance. The players have also committed to wearing the number 11 jersey during their training, leading up to the season opener against the Sunrisers Hyderabad on March 28. On the day of the match, they will wear black armbands to further honor the victims.

Menon: Fans With Us Always

In a recent pre-tournament press conference, RCB's CEO Rajesh Menon spoke about these initiatives, emphasizing the importance of remembering those who were lost and the team's commitment to improving safety for their fans.
“In memory of the 11 fans that we lost on June 4th, the players will be wearing jersey number 11 before the match during practice, and all the players will have the jersey number 11 on their backs. They will also be wearing a black armband on the day,” Rajesh said.
“We are also looking at having 11 permanent seats empty at the Chinnaswamy Stadium forever. This is for the 11 fans who will be with us forever,” he added.

Rs 7 Crore for Crowd Safety

He revealed that the franchise has invested nearly Rs 7 crore to enhance crowd management infrastructure around the stadium, a necessary step following the tragic events.
"We have invested approximately Rs 7 crore towards enhancing crowd management infrastructure, including multiple baggage scanners and command centres," Menon said

All Safety Rules Met

RCB, in collaboration with the Karnataka State Cricket Association (KSCA), has worked diligently to meet all safety specifications set forth by the Karnataka State Government and the High Court. As the reigning champions prepare for the upcomingIPL season, they will play five matches at Chinnaswamy Stadium, starting with the highly anticipated game against the Sunrisers Hyderabad.

Who is Kal Somani?

Kal Somani, who has more than 15 years of experience across various industries like ed-tech, artificial intelligence, and sports technology, is based in Scottsdale, Arizona. He has founded several successful ventures, including tech services company IntraEdge and Truyo, and is known for his strong involvement in AI governance initiatives.

He also co-owns the Motor City Golf Club and has invested early in the TGL Golf League and TMRW Sports, showcasing his commitment to the sports industry.

Tough Bidding War

The sale process began last year, with investment bank The Raine Group advising on the transaction. A number of bidders were in the mix, including the Aditya Birla Group and US sports investor David Blitzer, but it was Somani's consortium that ultimately emerged victorious. The bidding closed on Monday, and the final decision was made shortly after.
The current owner of the Rajasthan Royals, Manoj Badale, who is associated with Emerging Media, is expected to hand over the reins after the 2026 season.

BCCI's Cut Explained

Interestingly, the BCCI (Board of Control for Cricket in India) is yet to be notified about this significant transaction. According to IPL charter agreements, they are entitled to a fee of around INR 8.1 crore, which is 5% of the transaction amount.
The current owners have been in discussions to sell 100% of the franchise for the past six months, and the agreement is now officially documented. However, the formal takeover will only occur once the 19th season of the T20 tournament wraps up. 

Agha Reprimanded for Equipment Abuse

Article 2.2 of the ICC Code of Conduct addresses the "abuse of cricket equipment or clothing, ground equipment, or fixtures and fittings during an International Match," as noted by match referee Neeyamur Rashid.
“The specific incident involved abusing cricket equipment on the ground while leaving the field. Regarding Salman Agha, he has no previous history of such behaviour. We have to maintain neutrality when we judge. Consequently, we have issued a reprimand and a demerit point," Neeyamur said.

First Demerit Marks Agha's Record

Agha accepted the referee's decision without contest, which meant there was no need for a formal hearing. Level 1 offences usually result in an official reprimand, and while the penalties can include a fine of up to 50% of a player’s match fee and one to two demerit points, Agha now has one demerit point added to his record for the first time in a 24-month period.

Collision Leads to Tense Run-Out Call

The incident unfolded dramatically during the fourth delivery of the 39th over. As Mohammad Rizwan hit the ball back down the pitch, Miraz moved swiftly in his follow-through and collided with Agha, who had stepped out of his crease.
When Agha bent down to pick up the ball, Miraz seized the opportunity, grabbing it and hitting the stumps just as Agha shifted to one side. The third umpire confirmed the run-out, which visibly frustrated Agha and reignited the ongoing debate about sportsmanship in cricket.

Debate Ignites on Cricket's Spirit

The game was charged with tension when Mehidy Hasan Miraz's controversial run-out of Agha sparked discussions about the "spirit of cricket." Miraz defended his actions, claiming it was a strategic move aimed at gaining an advantage. Agha, however, expressed that he would have preferred to uphold the spirit of the game during that moment.

New Delhi (India) March 13:Rajeev Shukla, the vice president of the BCCI, recently shared his thoughts on Sunrisers Leeds’ decision to sign Pakistani spinner Abrar Ahmed in the Hundred Auction.

Shukla: IPL Our Limit

Shukla emphasized that the BCCI doesn’t have any influence over the franchise's choices outside of the IPL, stating that their focus is solely on the Indian Premier League. Essentially, it’s up to the franchise to decide who they want to bring on board.
“Our domain is limited to the IPL . We have nothing to do with what they do in a league outside that. How can we interfere with them signing a player in a foreign league. That’s upto them. It’s purely upto the franchise who have bought a team outside India. If they are taking some player outside India in that league, we are least concerned because, in IPL there is no such player,” Shukla said to ANI.

Maran and Vettori's Big Bid at Auction

On March 12, Sunrisers Leeds made headlines when they invested a whopping £190,000 to secure Abrar at the auction. The team’s chief executive, Kavya Maran, along with head coach Daniel Vettori, were present at the Piccadilly Lights in London, where they successfully outbid Trent Rockets for the talented spinner.
This signing marked a significant moment, as it’s been quite some time since an IPL-affiliated franchise has brought a Pakistani player into their ranks.

Vettori: 'Very Pleased' with Abrar Signing

Vettori expressed his excitement about the acquisition, noting that the team is “very pleased” to have Abrar join them, especially after missing out on their top choice for a spin option during the auction.
“Once we missed out on Adil Rashid [to Southern Brave], who was a priority early on, then we obviously jumped into the overseas spinner. There were four or five guys that we were looking at and Abrar was one of them," Vettori said.

Eyes for Usman Tariq Too

He chose not to delve into the historical tensions between India and Pakistan but confirmed that the coaching staff never discussed the absence of Pakistani players in the auction. Interestingly, he also mentioned that they had been eyeing mystery spinner Usman Tariq as well.
He said, "We just planned for everyone who was in the auction. There wasn't a discussion about not picking Pakistan players. It was just a matter of who was the best option." 

What Went Down at Stadium

Bidkar claims that Pandya engaged in objectionable behavior at the stadium after the team won the T20 World Cup finals, reportedly wrapping himself in the national flag.
He argues that this conduct violates the Prevention of Insult to National Honour Act of 1971. The police in Pune are currently investigating the matter, and they have confirmed that they are aware of Bidkar's complaint.

The Flag Lie-Down Controversy

Following India’s triumphant win at the Narendra Modi Stadium, various videos surfaced on social media, capturing the celebrations. In one such video, Pandya is seen joyfully dancing and running on the field with the Tricolour draped over his shoulder.
Bidkar further alleges that Pandya was later spotted lying on a stage next to his girlfriend, Mahieka Sharma, still wearing the national flag. He contends that these actions disrespected the symbol of the "Tricolour."
“According to Section 2 of the 1971 National Flag Act, we should respect the dignity of the national flag. However, Hardik Pandya was so lost in the celebration of his victory that he was lying with his girlfriend, wearing the national flag... I believe it is an insult to the national flag," Khan said.

Complaint Filed in Pune

Khan also pointed out that while the police initially indicated that the incident occurred in Ahmedabad, the national flag represents the entire country, suggesting that a complaint could be validly filed in Pune as well.
"When I went to file the complaint, they told me the incident occurred there, not here. So, I told them that the national flag is a symbol of the entire nation, and we can file a complaint with the Shivaji Nagar police. They have accepted my complaint and provided me with a copy. Let's see what happens next. I have filed the complaint," he said.

Mixed Social Media Buzz

Reactions to the incident on social media have been mixed; while many supporters downplayed it as part of the festivities following a historic victory, others expressed concerns about the need to treat the national flag with greater respect during such events.
India secured a comfortable 96-run victory over New Zealand in the final, marking their third T20 World Cup win and their first time lifting the trophy on home soil.

But cricket in India is not just a game — it’s an emotion. Fans may treat their favorite players as heroes, but sometimes the biggest players end up making headlines behind the scenes as opposed to front and center on the field. And throughout Indian cricket history, certain well-known cricketers have had to grapple with court cases, police complaints or even courtroom troubles, rattling the cricketing world.

From cricketer match-fixing scandals to personal quarrels, here are six high-profile Indian cricketers who got involved in legal trouble and sparked much debate across the country.

1. S. Sreesanth

Former fast bowler Sreesanth was the subject of one of the most notorious controversies in Indian cricket history. He was arrested in 2013 during the spot-fixing scandal in the Indian Premier League, rattling Indian cricket. He was eventually acquitted of criminal charges, but the case cost him years of legal battle and a long ban from professional cricket.

2. Mohammad Azharuddin

The story of Azharuddin’s career ended disastrously when he was accused of match-fixing in the early 2000s. The Board of Control for Cricket in India banned him for life, a demand he went on to challenge, legally. The ban was later lifted by the Andhra Pradesh High Court in a pivotal moment in the years-long feud.

3. Ajay Jadeja

A different cricketer caught in the storm of fixing matches was Ajay Jadeja. The stylish batsman was banned for a number of years before taking the matter to court. The Delhi High Court, after a protracted legal battle, eventually overturned the ban, enabling him to clear his name.

4. Vinod Kambli

The once-lauded India’s most promising batsman, Vinod Kambli’s days off the field also included controversy. He has been involved in police complaints related to personal disputes and assault allegations, and over the years this only further drawn him to the public eye beyond cricket.

5. Prithvi Shaw

Young opener Prithvi Shaw shocked the press after he got in an altercation in front of a luxury hotel in Mumbai that involved social media influencers. The incident generated police complaints and investigations, quickly becoming a viral story across news and social media.

6. Navjot Singh Sidhu

The former Indian cricketer Navjot Singh Sidhu was involved in a serious legal case in the late 1980s over a road rage incident before becoming a famous television personality and politician. For many years, the case was in court, reaching the Supreme Court of India itself, establishing it as one of the longest legal battles involving a cricketer.

When Fame Meets Controversy

In India, cricket superstars live under constant public scrutiny. Every action — on and off the field — can quickly turn into national headlines, and no matter which way you look at it, even sports icons are occasionally blocked by legal battles that test their careers, reputation, and public image.

As cricket evolves, and the world of cricket gets bigger, fans also wish that the focus continued to be on brilliant performances, famous matches, and unforgettable victories — and not just courtroom drama.

India’s top all-rounder Hardik Pandya is incurring legal troubles after an advocate based in Pune lodged a complaint against him for disrespecting the Indian national flag at India’s epic T20 World Cup 2022 festivities in Ahmedabad.

Pending the complaint, which was filed at a Shivaji Nagar police station, is the witness of advocate Wajid Khan, who pleaded for actions against Pandya saying the national flag was being treated as disrespect when celebrating on the field.

And images of the Indian cricket team celebrating its thrilling third T20 World Cup victory went viral on social media as Pandya draped in the Tricolour, danced, ran around the pitch, and collapsed down on the stage — side-by-side with his girlfriend Mahieka Sharma — while the flag was in use.

“You should have seen Hardik Pandya dancing with his girlfriend with his national flag pinned to his back,” Khan said to ANI. ‘Section 2 of the 1971 National Flag Act requires respect for the flag, but Pandya crossed that line.’ 

Police have accepted the complaint in Pune, but said the incident has divided people online. Some supporters say it just was youthful exuberance after a historic victory, whereas others contend that the national flag ought to get more respect during the fan party.

India defeated New Zealand by a series of 96 runs in the final at Narendra Modi Stadium, making it the first-ever team to claim the T20 World Cup title three times, the first to win the trophy on home soil. The celebrations were fiery, fierce and, now, legally shamed.

And as the drama escalates all eyes are on any moves of the police against Pandya to deal with this flag related complaint.

Samson Jumps to 22nd After World Cup

Sanju Samson also had an impressive run, scoring 321 runs in the tournament and achieving three consecutive fifties. His remarkable efforts earned him the Player of the Series Award at the World Cup, and he climbed 18 places in the rankings, moving from 40th to 22nd.
Although he struggled to find his rhythm early in the tournament, he truly found his form in a crucial match against the West Indies at Eden Gardens. From that moment, he did not look back, delivering stellar performances in must-win games against the West Indies, England, and New Zealand, including an unbeaten 97 and two scores of 89.

Abhishek's Final 50 Saves Top Rank

Abhishek Sharma, currently India’s top T20I batter, faced challenges during the tournament, managing only 89 runs in seven games. However, his dazzling 18-ball fifty in the final helped him retain his top ranking—at least for now. Meanwhile, all-rounder Shivam Dube climbed four spots to 27th in the updated rankings.
On the other hand, Tilak Varma and captain Suryakumar Yadav saw their rankings drop following the T20 World Cup. 

Chakravarthy Falls in Latest Rankings

In the bowlers' category, India’s Varun Chakravarthy lost his top position to Afghanistan’s Rashid Khan, despite not having played any matches in the past week.
Chakravarthy slipped to second place, while Jasprit Bumrah (up to sixth), and Axar Patel (up six spots to 17th) were recognized for their solid performances during the tournament.

Pandya, Raza Rule All-Rounder Charts

The competition among T20I all-rounders remains fierce, with Zimbabwe's captain Sikandar Raza and India’s Hardik Pandya achieving new career-high ratings, taking the top two spots in this category.
The rankings update followed India’s triumphant 96-run victory over New Zealand in the final held in Ahmedabad on March 8, which secured their place in his tory as the first team ever to win three T20 World Cup titles. 

WI's 195/4: Powell-Holder Strikes

India's fielding let them down initially, with misfields and dropped catches allowing West Indies to get to 195/4. Jasprit Bumrah and Varun Chakravarthy made vital breakthroughs, such as Shimron Hetmyer and Roston Chase, to slow the scoring. Hardik Pandya followed the plan perfectly to get Sherfane Rutherford out. West Indies staged a comeback, with Rovman Powell and Jason Holder adding 70 off 30 balls, but Samson's measured attack ensured a win for India.

Samson’s Classy 97* Seals Win

In a rapid chase, Sanju Samson was India's main player with a classy 97 not out off 50 balls, hitting crucial boundaries and displaying great calm. Hardik Pandya offered support with well timed singles and aggression, thus keeping the momentum.
Though the overs were tight, India still held the reins, with singles, powerful cuts, and well timed shots dominating the closing moments, edging to victory.

Suryakumar Hails Team's Hard Work

Indian captain Suryakumar Yadav praises his team highly and particularly lauds Sanju Samson, claiming that this match winning knock is just a reward for his amazing personality and unyielding hard work. Surya further elaborates that the choice of chasing was a tactical one as the team was confident that they can chase any total close to 200 with the dew factor and the ground in mind.
While for the semi final clash with England, he states that the team wil l enjoy the moment first before landing in Mumbai and getting on with the work. He finally points out that his team is inspired to keep their courage and play their natural game, pointing out that sticking to one's way of playing is the best method to cope with the pressure and nervousness of a major game.

Samson: Player of the Match

Sanju Samson has been named as the Man of the Match for his outstanding innings of 97 runs off 50 balls. Samson discloses that he was only concerned with his particular role, taking the chase one ball at a time, without expecting such a magnificent result.
He said, "It means the whole world actually to me. I think right from the day I started playing, started dreaming to play for the country, I think this is the day I was waiting for. And I’m very grateful, very thankful. And I’ve always had a very special journey with lots of ups and downs, but I’ve kept on doubting myself, kept on thinking, what if, what if, can I make it, can I make it?

Governing Council Meeting

Next week, an IPL Governing Council meeting will be held to formally ratify the revised dates. It is said that the meeting will give official confirmation on the schedule — with the opening fixture and the venue of the final.
After it is approved, the full timetable for the venues will be announced to the fans, launching another two months of major T20 action. 

Election Delays Explained

The announcement of the schedule of the next season has so far not occurred due to the dates for the Assembly elections in Assam, West Bengal and Tamil Nadu not being finalized. Home matches are scheduled for Kolkata (West Bengal) and Chennai (Tamil Nadu), and Guwahati (Assam’s capital) will likely serve as a second home venue for Rajasthan Royals. The match-ups will be organized in the states and cities so there will not be any pressure on the administration. 

BCCI's Early Finale Call

The BCCI had already announced that the season would start on March 26. The franchises agreed that the date was conveyed to them from December's IPL auction session in Abu Dhabi. And as of early Friday, the window for that date would be between March 26 (Thursday) and May 31 (Saturday), reports the franchises. No immediate information has shown whether the final will be postponed by a day or two at present. 

Opener Venue Uncertainty

Royal Challengers Bengaluru (RCB), the defending champions, will step into the new season after the team won their first IPL title last season with a six-run win over Punjab Kings (PBKS) last season in the final at the Narendra Modi Stadium in Ahmedabad.
RCB will also compete in the opening game of the season, but the venue will be uncertain due to ongoing works to improve safety facilities at the M Chinnaswamy Stadium in Bengaluru still in play.

Final Hosting Issues

Traditionally the IPL final is hosted by the defending champions but with the champions, Royal Challengers Bengaluru (RCB), not looking comfortable and currently battling the Karnataka State Cricket Association (KSCA).
Although M.Chinnaswamy Stadium has been cleared for matches following an altercation over a deadly stampede last year, RCB have not yet contracted to do so with the KSCA at the now controversy-ridden venue. 

Emotional Final Rites

Rinku proceeded to his hometown in Aligarh from Chennai for the final rituals. India batter appeared numb as he bore his father’s dead body.
Rinku was shown wearing a blue cap, as he carried his father’s remains to perform final rites under the tight security arrangements as he performed the final rites in a video that has since gone viral. 

Cricket Stars' Support

The big names in Indian cricket like Virat Kohli, Yuvraj Singh and Harbhajan Singh have expressed their condolences to him on social media.
“Deeply saddened by the news of Rinku’s father’s demise. My heartfelt prayers and thoughts are with you and your family during this difficult time. May you always find strength in his eternal blessings. Om Shanti,” said Kohli.

Yuvraj Stands in Solidarity

Former all-rounder Yuvraj Singh took to X to offer condolences and said his thoughts and prayers are with Rinku Singh and his family while they navigate this hard time in their lives.
"Heartbreaking news to hear of the passing of Rinku’s father. In moments like these, no words feel enough. Standing in solidarity with you and your family during this difficult time. May you find strength and courage in the love that surrounds you @rinkusingh235 " he said on X.

Sehwag Honors Father's Legacy

Virender Sehwag also took to X to offer his condolences, declaring his thoughts are with Rinku.
He said, "Rinku, deeply saddened to hear about the passing of your father. Your father raised a truly strong and wonderful son through so many sacrifices, and that is his greatest legacy. Stay strong, @rinkusingh235. My prayers and thoughts are with you and your entire family. Om Shanti”

Rinku's Tough Return

Two days prior to a crucial Super 8 tie by India against Zimbabwe at the MA Chidambaram Stadium, Rinku had left the Indian camp and flown out of Chennai Tuesday to be beside his family at Greater Noida’s Yatharth Hospital after his father’s health deteriorated.
Initially doubtful for the Zimbabwe game, he joined the Indian side back in Chennai where he played for a time as a substitute after being replaced in the XI by Sanju Samson.
Rinku's season in India has been concluded up until now by playing five matches for the country in the T20 World Cup 2026 with a total of 24 runs scored up to date which is tied at a high of 11 not out. 

New Delhi (India) February 27:India has also defeated Zimbabwe by 72 runs. Zimbabwe skipper Sikander Raza won the toss and opted to bowl first against Suryakumar Yadav's India in the opening innings, and in the first innings the hosts managed to add a solid 256/4 after 20 overs. 

India Hits 256/4

A remarkable game with the bats out for India when 17 sixes hammered them to a net score of 256/4 — India’s highest at a T20 World Cup and second highest overall. The batting was very strong at the top at the beginning where Abhishek Sharma found his place. Cameos from Ishan Kishan and Suryakumar Yadav came after an excellent blitz from Hardik Pandya with 50* and Tilak Varma with a stellar 44* on just 16 deliveries.
Brian Bennett in response added an undefeated 97, but Zimbabwe finished with 184 for six in their 20 overs. Arshdeep Singh, India pacer, was the most successful bowler with a total of three for 24. 

SKY Praises Team Positivity

Indian Captain Suryakumar Yadav said, “I think we wanted to leave everything behind. We didn’t think too much about what we did in the league stage or in the last game in Ahmedabad (vs South Africa). Our video analyst had prepared a slide for all the batters and bowlers, highlighting what we’ve done well over the past year. We looked at that, took a lot of positivity from it, and came here with clarity" regarding the win.
"With contributions from the top order right down to number seven, I think there was hardly anything missing in our performance. To be very honest, we could have been a little more clinical with the ball. But at the end of the day, a win is a win, and we’ll take it as we move forward," he added.

Do-or-Die vs Windies

India and West Indies have both scored two points each after their own number of matches. Windies score the second place and receive their better Net Run Rate. Each group will face off against the other in a virtual quarterfinal on Sunday. Though the contest will be a Super Eight game , it will be an eliminator of sorts. The winner of the struggle will make it to the semi-finals and the loser will be eliminated.
Regarding India’s do-or-die contest against the West Indies, the skipper remarked, "We’ll definitely tighten a few screws when we go and play the West Indies cricket team. Once we reach Kolkata, we’ll sit down and plan properly for that game.”

India & Zim Playing XIs

India XI: Abhishek Sharma, Sanju Samson (wk), Ishan Kishan, Tilak Varma, Suryakumar Yadav (c), Hardik Pandya, Shivam Dube, Axar Patel, Varun Chakravarthy, Arshdeep Singh, Jasprit Bumrah
Zimbabwe XI: Tadiwanashe Marumani (wk), Brian Bennett, Dion Myers, Ryan Burl, Sikandar Raza (c), Tony Munyonga, Tashinga Musekiwa, Brad Evans, Tinotenda Maposa, Blessing Muzarabani, Richard Ngarava

Jaglan has contested the PGA Americas Golf Tour, a pathway tour to the high-level competition of the PGA Tour circuit — the professional stages of golf. He took the cut three times in nine events and secured a career-high tie-third place at the BioSteel Championship, showing how competitive he has become.

Shubham Jaglan Focuses on Asian Tour and PGTI Experience

Jaglan then returned to India to compete in the Professional Golf Tour of India and then the Asian Tour after developing international exposure. The golfer feels that the Asian Tour will be his way to gain stronger competition and develop skills he will need to advance in global golf for the long run. 

His time on the PGA Americas Tour helped him be more mentally and physically durable, Jaglan claimed, especially during consecutive tournament weeks. Competing against tougher international players helped him hone his skills and develop resilience under pressure.

He also excelled in domestic competitions, placing second in two PGTI events, including the Tata Open closing season.

Strong Performance in Qualifying School and Future Goals

Jaglan obtained a full season playing card for the Asian Tour following his qualification of finishing 34th place in the Asian Tour Qualifying School. Only the top 35 players had full-season playing rights, making Jaglan one of the more promising young talent in the tour.

Other Indian golfers who qualified were Shaurya Bhattacharya, Rashid Khan, and Ajeetesh Sandhu. Jaglan won the DP World PGTI Qualifying School by five shots earlier this year as well, enhancing his professional standing. 

Competing in 72 The League Franchise Golf Tournament

Currently Jaglan is competing in 72 The League Golf Tournament, a franchise-based golf tournament that consists of six teams, using match-play format across several venues in the region of Delhi and NCR. 

He became the second-highest priced player at the auction, joining Hyderabad-based Charminar Champions Golf Team for ₹19 lakh; this price was well beyond his base price of ₹3 lakh.

Future Aspirations

Jaglan wants to get to the top of the PGTI Order of Merit, secure spots on the European Tour and continue to get experience on the Asian Tour. He thinks that by playing at that level, he will improve as a professional golfer and fulfil the long-term dream of playing on the world tours.

The USA Hockey team “sincerely appreciates the invitation” and “deeply appreciates the recognition of their extraordinary achievement,” a spokesperson for the team told CBS News on Monday. 

The team recently defeated Canada in a dramatic overtime victory at the 2026 Milan Cortina Winter Olympics, securing their third Olympic gold medal in women’s ice hockey.

Scheduling Conflicts After 2026 Winter Olympics

The statement said that the athletes were unable to come to the State of the Union address due to previously scheduled academic and professional commitments following the Winter Games. 

“Due to the timing and prior commitments, the athletes are unable to participate. They were honored to be included and are grateful for the acknowledgment,” the spokesperson said. 

U.S. Men’s Hockey Team Expected to Attend

U.S. Men’s Hockey Team Expected to Attend. President Trump also extended an invitation to the United States men’s national ice hockey team following their gold medal victory over Canada. 

 The president reportedly spoke with the men’s team via video call as they celebrated in the locker room after their win.

House Speaker Mike Johnson confirmed that the men’s team plans to attend the State of the Union speech.

The team arrived in South Florida Monday to continue their post-Olympic celebrations.

State of the Union Address Details

President Trump will deliver the State of the Union address at 9 p.m. from the United States Capitol. The speech will be broadcast across multiple platforms, including CBS News 24/7 streaming services.

FIFA, the global football organization, has neither released nor declared any changes in plans. 

Violence in Mexico Sparks World Cup Concerns

 Mexico Violence Causes World Cup Hopes. Guadalajara, a city that was hosting the 2026 tournament, allegedly saw uprisings after the death of Nemesio Oseguera Cervantes, who was widely known as “El Mencho.” He is believed to work as head of the Jalisco New Generation Cartel (CJNG), and had been one of the most wanted figures by U.S. authorities.

Cartel-associated violence triggered the following reports:

Vehicles being burned

Roads blocked across multiple states

Four Liga MX matches postponed

The situation has sparked online speculation on possible security threats in the run-up to the World Cup.

Guadalajara Set to Host Key World Cup Matches

Guadalajara, Jalisco state capital, is set to host four World Cup matches in June 2026. There are reports of two of those matches featuring the national team from South Korea national football team, which is listed as one of the matches.

Mexico is one of the co-hosts of this tournament with:

United States

Canada

There’s been no announcement to organisers on relocating games despite the unrest.

Mexico’s Friendly Match Still Scheduled

Mexico’s Friendly Match Still Scheduled. Mexico’s national team will be playing a friendly against the Iceland national football team at Estadio Corregidora in Querétaro. Until now, the Mexican Football Federation has not postponed or cancelled the match. 

Are World Cup Matches Being Moved?

Casual speculation on social media has indicated FIFA should consider temporary changes in venue for safety reasons. But according to a report provided by GiveMeSport, they:

FIFA hasn't formally released an announcement

No move by Mexican authorities has been made to seat any games elsewhere

Viral posts alleging changes to the schedule come from unreliable sources

There is not yet any clear indication at all that FIFA World Cup 2026 schedule in Mexico will be modified, according to official sources. 

Security Likely to Be Closely Monitored

This is a lot of ground to cover — FIFA will often focus on ensuring safety of spectators and players at global tournaments. But as unrest has been raised, closely monitoring and coordinating with host nation authorities is normal for major sporting events.

Reports that the World Cup is “in danger” are speculative until official communiqués break.

Conclusion

While some headlines have followed violence driven by cartel unrest in Mexico, there’s currently no official confirmation that the FIFA World Cup 2026 matches in Guadalajara or elsewhere will be impacted, according to media coverage at all.

Instead of ruminating through social media, fans are encouraged to trust in official updates from FIFA and local authorities.

India's Bad Start and No Comeback

India’s top and middle order crumbled early: Abhishek Sharma scored 15, and Tilak Varma and Ishan Kishan were dismissed cheaply in the powerplay. Suryakumar Yadav and the middle order faltered and failed to form partnerships by collapsing at crucial moments, while Shivam Dube alone scored a valiant 42. Jasprit Bumrah gave a masterclass in the closing overs, conceding very little as he finished with brilliant figures of 3 for 15. 

Super 8 Group Pressure

As is the case every time India is not feeling like it’s coming out strong enough to face something huge, the Super 8 campaign at ICC Men’s T20 World Cup 2026 starts with a heavyweight clash against South Africa, on Sunday at Narendra Modi Stadium, Ahmedabad. It is the first game of the Super 8 phase for both sides and in a group where net run rate may prove critical, early momentum is key.
And this is no ordinary Super 8 group — two undefeated group toppers are West Indies and Zimbabwe too, which quickly made this the tournament’s most difficult pool. 

SKY's Post Match Statement

Indian skipper Suryakumar Yadav said, “I feel we were always in the game when we started. I think we bowled really well in the beginning, 21 for 3, and the way they batted after that from 7 to 15, I think they batted really well, and then we came back again in the game later on. Overall, if we see, we bowled really well, but we could have batted a little better. My thing is sometimes you’ve got to think, if you’re chasing 180-185, you can’t win the game in the powerplay, but you might lose the game in the powerplay. We lost too many wickets in the powerplay and then we couldn’t have small, small partnerships which we wanted for chasing 180-185, but that’s part of the game. We learn from it, we’ll sit back and then come back stronger” regarding the loss.

“That’s it. We’ll try and keep it simple, play the same brand of cricket which we want to play and nothing changes. I think we’ll come back strong” he added.

Playing XI's

India Playing XI: Abhishek Sharma, Ishan Kishan(w), Tilak Varma, Suryakumar Yadav(c), Hardik Pandya, Shivam Dube, Rinku Singh, Washington Sundar, Arshdeep Singh, Jasprit Bumrah, Varun Chakaravarthy
South Africa Playing XI: Aiden Markram(c), Quinton de Kock(w), Ryan Rickelton, Dewald Brevis, David Miller, Tristan Stubbs, Marco Jansen, Corbin Bosch, Keshav Maharaj, Kagiso Rabada, Lungi Ngidi

Elections Block IPL Schedule

An important factor in postponing release of IPL 2026 schedule would be the upcoming Assembly Elections in West Bengal, Tamil Nadu and Assam. The next elections are expected to take place during April and May which exactly coincides with the timing of the IPL.
West Bengal (home of Kolkata Knight Riders and Eden Gardens), Tamil Nadu (Chennai Super Kings and MA Chidambaram Stadium) and Assam (home to a few of the Rajasthan Royals matches in Barsapara Stadium) are all crucial IPL centres. 

Local police and other security forces are heavily involved in polling duties during elections, which is likely to result in shortages for IPL matches. This could require venues to change, impact on travel for the teams and the logistics for broadcasters and fans. 

T20 World Cup Adds to Chaos

This was only made more difficult with the continuing ICC Men's T20 World Cup in India and Sri Lanka. Leading IPL venues in Delhi, Mumbai, Kolkata, Chennai, and Ahmedabad are now filled.
The cricket board needs more time for stadium handover, pitch refurbishment and branding to prepare for the World Cup conclusion on March 8.
An initial schedule for the first two to three weeks of IPL 2026 may be unveiled soon, as well as the rest of the programme agreed after election dates and security clearances have been met. 

Dhoni's Limited Role in CSK Lineup

MS Dhoni is scheduled to play the 19th season of the Indian Premier League (IPL) for Chennai Super Kings (CSK). The IPL legend was one of the players retained by the management ahead of the IPL 2026 mini-auction. 

However, with CSK’s new acquisition Sanju Samson at the top, there is little probability that Dhoni will play every league game. However, under the Impact Player rule, Dhoni did not have any particular need during the two most recent editions.
He has mainly been in a situational role, typically contributing late-order cameos. Dhoni has battled with issues with his knee and back all the years and the physical nature of keeping wicket and with the limited turnaround time between matches can impact him at this point in his career. 

Bugti Resigns, Urges PM Probe Into Sydney Scandal

Tariq Bugti stated that he has communicated his resignation to Pakistan Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif. Bugti confirmed the development on Thursday, February 19, calling on the Prime Minister and Field Marshal Asim Munir to go as far as to carry out a full investigation into the incident in Australia.
"I have sent my resignation letter to the PM, but I urge him and Field Marshal Asim Munir to conduct an impartial inquiry into the whole incident which took place in Australia during the FIH Pro League," he said.

Butt Blasts PHF Mismanagement on Australia Tour

The controversy over Pakistan hockey burst online with a video on social media showing the men stranded in Sydney with their luggage. The moment the footage went viral Butt shared another video claiming that everything was fine in Australia and there was no accommodation issue.
But after returning home Wednesday, Butt attacked the PHF for their mismanagement in the course of the tour. Butt had berated the PHF during the tour announcing that the players were required to clean the kitchen and wash dishes prior to play during the match. 

No Hotel Cash, Players Walked Streets Hungry

Butt also told reporters that there had been no payment received in advance of arrival at the hotel in Sydney, and that they had to walk around the streets before arrangements were made for their stay.
He also claimed that nine players had been without their daily allowances from the Pakistan Sports Board (PSB) and PHF for the last year. The players also asked why there are logistical issues in Australia although the government has provided the required funds to the PHF.
Tariq Bugti's frustrations were not that of the Pakistan captain who openly criticised PHF and banned him two years after he said so, before quitting himself. 

Coach Blames Players' Gossip for Tour Losses

Due to team failure, Pakistan lost all matches on the Australia tour, and lost games against Germany too. In the meantime, Pakistan’s hockey coach has escalated the blame game while at the same time offering to resign. He has also blamed the players for losses on the Australia tour, stating that there was foul talk among some of the players, including Butt, that ultimately hurt the team on the tour.
Pakistan is due to go to Egypt in four months’ time for the final World Cup qualifying tournament following a terrible Australian tour. 

New Delhi (India) February 17:On Monday in Kandy, Sri Lanka defeated Australia in a Group B match in the 2026 T20 World Cup by eight wickets. Sri Lanka is ahead of Australia in Group B of the 2026 T20 World Cup with six points from three matches. Sri Lanka have sealed qualification for the Super Eight stage, whereas Australia don't yet have it.
Australia remained in third place but only with two points from three matches. 

SL Players Strike Ruthlessly

Sri Lanka won the toss and opted to field against Australia. At the outset, that decision proved a costly one as Travis Head (56) and Mitchell Marsh (54) scored for the first wicket with a 104-run stand. However, Sri Lanka countered with quick wickets, with Australia never exactly feeling at ease from then on.
For the Lankan bowlers it was Dushan Hemantha (3/37) and Dushmantha Chameera (3/36) who proved to be at their best. Pathum Nissanka and Kusal Mendis drove Sri Lanka’s innings further on track in chasing 182 after the loss of Kusal Perera in the match’s second over when they pushed the attack onto Australia. 

Shanaka Lauds SL's Stellar Show

Sri Lanka’s skipper, Dasun Shanaka felt his team’s output was impressive.
“One of the best performances in recent past. Happy about the way first innings went. We were still very positive after losing Pathirana. Had the confidence. Knew about the wicket as well. Each and everyone showed high body language. Everybody wanted to contribute somehow,” he said.

Marsh: 181 Competitive but SL Too Good

Australia skipper Mitchell Marsh said he felt that Australia's 181 total score was competitive.
“I thought it was a competitive total. We probably left ourselves a few short after the start we had. Well played to SL, they outplayed us tonight. We know that at our best we can make big scores. We just lost our way towards the back end. SL bowled really well towards the back end. We knew we were a few short,” he said.

Points Table: SL Qualifies, Aus on Brink

The loss results in Australia still falling in third with two points from three matches. Australia have now lost to Zimbabwe and Sri Lanka, while having beaten Ireland. Australia now has to hope Ireland beat Zimbabwe in Tuesday’s match.
If Zimbabwe beat Ireland, Australia will be eliminated from the tournament. 

The Milan–Cortina 2026 Winter Olympics risk turning into a political flashpoint with certain athletes challenging the administration of US President Donald Trump and its policies. Despite the exclusion from medal podiums of political gestures from 2021, when they are prohibited, in violation of Article 50 of the Olympic Charter, athletes are still allowed to express their views in press conferences and on social media.

At the Italian Games this year, much of the criticism focuses on the Trump administration’s strong-handed approach to immigration, specifically its actions by US Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE).

Anger was heightened by two protesters killed by federal officers in a Minneapolis shooting last month, an act that ignited nationwide outrage. British freestyle skier Gus Kenworthy — who became the United States Olympic silver medalist in 2014 and then changed scenery to ski for Britain — was one of the most outspoken of the critics. Kenworthy, in an inflammatory Instagram post, depicted an image of himself urinating in the snow next to the caption “Fxxx ICE.” He said there were overwhelming expressions of support, but he, too, disclosed that the post had prompted death threats. 

Trump did not respond to the gesture. But the president responded when the US freestyle skier Hunter Hess felt embarrassed to showcase the United States. “I mean, just because I’m wearing the flag doesn’t mean I’m representing everything that is happening in the US,” Hess said, acknowledging that competing while wearing the flag was deeply stirring for him and brought him mixed feelings. Trump reacted with fury on his Truth Social platform, describing Hess as “a real loser,” and telling him he was not representing his country at the Olympics.

Hess would also find support from snowboard star Chloe Kim, who called for compassion and unity in the wake of the scandal. “During moments like this, it’s hugely important to be there for each other,” Kim said, noting that she was still proud to represent the United States. Some athletes went a more measured route. 

Alpine skiing pioneer Mikaela Shiffrin, the world’s most successful skier in history at the World Cup, said she had “some thoughts” about representing the US as it grapples with a deeply divided political landscape. The 30-year-old, who hopes to add to her two Olympic gold medals, drew on a quote from Nelson Mandela, which actress Charlize Theron said at the opening ceremony. “Peace is not just the absence of conflict,” the quote was to read, “but the creation of an environment where all can flourish regardless of race, colour, creed, religion, gender, class or other differences.” Shiffrin said the message struck a deep chord with her, which she hoped to reflect at the Games in an inclusive, diverse and kind spirit. The US Winter Olympian Amber Glenn, who assisted the nation in ensuring Olympic team gold, called the present political environment fraught with stress for millions of her community. Glenn, who identifies as pansexual and bisexual, defended athletes who had taken a stand on political issues. “People will tell you athletes want to just keep their jobs,” said she, “but politics are very much a part of us, as every one of us.” The International Olympic Committee wanted to make it no bigger deal. Mark Adams, an IOC spokesperson, declined to comment on Trump’s comments, fearing further debate would not lead to a constructive discussion.

Some American audiences at figure skating events in Milan opted to make their own comment. A US flag stretched for television cameras read “Go Team USA” on one side and “Apologies to the world for our bad behaviour” on the other. We will fix ourselves.

Lahore Summit: Naqvi Faces ICC Heat

The meeting will follow days of ‘back-channel talks’ between the PCB and the International Cricket Council (ICC), with Pakistan deciding against attendance at their February 15 T20 World Cup 2026 clash against India.
Earlier in the day the PCB official had met with the Bangladesh Cricket Board (BCB) chief Aminul Islam Bulbul to cut the stalemate on the looming impasse with the ICC. 

The PCB is demanding higher revenue from the ICC, as noted in a Telecom Asia Sport report. PCB wants the Indian players to honor the ethics they hold and shake hands with Pakistani players during the matches. The PCB is set to bring these demands before ICC. 

PCB Softens Stance on IND vs PAK Clash

The PCB reportedly softened their stance on the boycott, having been told about the potential implications of the failure to proceed with the decision for future financial and other damages.
On February 15 that match was estimated at 30 through 35 million USD (almost equal to PCB's share of ICC revenue). If Pakistan did boycott the game against the PCB, the ICC could also recover the losses by withholding payments to PCB. 

Suryakumar Yadav: India Ready to Play

India, even as Pakistan plans to boycott, will fly to Colombo for the match, Suryakumar Yadav says.
He said, "Their decision is not in my control. I wish I could take that decision. It's their call. We have been told that we have to play a game on the 15th. We played them three times in the Asia Cup at a neutral venue. We played some good cricket, we won and we were very happy. If we get an opportunity, we will definitely play them.”

Govt Orders Force Majeure?

Earlier this week the PCB advised ICC that they will withdraw from the IND vs PAK match because of a government mandate to signal solidarity with Bangladesh, which Scotland replaced by refusing to play in India over security concerns.
The PCB cited Force Majeure by the government instructions not to pitch their arch-rivals in the group stage of the multi-nation tournament. The government did not provide another explanation or reason for entering. Cricket’s global body has since called on the PCB to explain how it made attempts to get out of the logjam in terms of the terms of participation.

In the aftermath of victory in the Women’s Premier League (WPL) 2026 final for the Royal Challengers Bengaluru Women’s team, Virat Kohli wrote a touching congratulatory message with heart. Celebrants who have carried on the RCB flag high above the flood gates in just three seasons from their second WPL title to the last one, Indian cricket legend Virat Kohli, is particularly overpraised when he wrote this letter.

He hailed the team not just for keeping the flag flying high, but also for carrying on its proud tradition: the rest is always new, and having the team be world-class will always go down in history. 

Smriti Mandhana had been the backbone of the RCB Women’s campaign for WPL 2026. She played all over again in the final game, and she played great when it was counted most, playing with experience and with a lot of drive for a historic win. Not just for delivering the victory, but also for solidifying the reason RCB Women are now viewed as one of the best clubs in the league. 

Heartwarming Fan Moment Steals the Show

During the post-game festivities, RCB Women’s star performer gave her helmet to an ecstatic fan who was beside her in the stands. The event brought about raucous applause from the Vadodara house and hit the web very fast. But it was also a sign of the strength that exists between the team and the rabid RCB fans, a sentiment worth its weight in gold for a night that must not fade from our minds forever. 

RCB’s Rising Legacy: Across Leagues

This victory in the WPL 2026 has brought Royal Challengers Bengaluru a solid foundation in a still thriving top-tier tournament of T20 cricket. The franchise’s success in the women’s league represents a broader, increasing standard of excellence and of belief that extends across formats. RCB Women, Virat Kohli emphasised in his message, they are not simply a title but the torchbearers of the franchise’s long-evolving legacy.

RCB Women Seal Title With a Record Chase

RCB Women knocked off one of the most memorable WPL finals in all time by chasing down the daunting target of 204 to defeat Delhi Capitals in Vadodara to claim one of the all-time champions titles. The high-pressure run chase showcased the team’s fearless personality and depth in batting. 

Smriti Mandhana’s Leadership Defines the Campaign

Captain Smriti Mandhana led from the front with a match-winning innings, anchored the chase, and guided her side to a six-wicket victory. Her steady hand, cool under pressure, proved decisive on the most pivotal stage of the tournament.