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RCB vs LSG head-to-head IPL: Last 5 matches, records at M Chinnaswamy Stadium, Bengaluru and Ekana Cricket Stadium, Lucknow

RCB vs LSG head-to-head IPL: Last 5 matches, records at M Chinnaswamy Stadium, Bengaluru and Ekana Cricket Stadium, Lucknow originally appeared on Cricket News. Add Cricket News as a Preferred Source by clicking here.

KEY TAKEAWAYS: 

  • Royal Challengers Bengaluru take on Lucknow Super Giants at Ekana Stadium in IPL 2026 on May 7.
  • The rivalry has interestingly seen the sides chase and defend high and low scores, respectively.
  • RCB lead the overall head-to-head record 5-2, while LSG won twice at M. Chinnaswamy Stadium until before this season.

IPL 2026 HUB:Latest IPL news | IPL points table | Team stats | IPL 2026 squads

RCB vs LSG head-to-head: Key stats and venue records in IPL

With their playoff hopes fading, Lucknow Super Giants take on Royal Challengers Bengaluru at Ekana Stadium on Thursday, May 7.

The intense rivalry between the sides rapidly developed in recent times. With the arrival of LSG in 2022, the match-up has been marked by tension, exciting last-ball finishes, verbal sparring, and high-scores.

To date, the head-to-head series score is 5-2 in favour of RCB, including winning each of the two games held in Lucknow.

A few noteworthy batting performances in the rivalry include run chases of 213 and 228 runs by RCB and LSG, respectively.

MORE:Explained: Why RCB's M Chinnaswamy stadium could miss hosting IPL 2026 final

RCB vs LSG: Last 5 match head-to-head results

1. RCB vs LSG (April 15, 2026)

LSG: 146/10 (19.6 overs)

RCB: 149/5 (15.1 overs)

Result: RCB won by 5 wickets.

2. LSG vs RCB (May 27, 2025)

LSG: 227/3 (20 overs)

RCB: 230/4 (18.4 overs)

Result: RCB won by 6 wickets.

3. RCB vs LSG (April 2, 2024)

LSG: 181/5 (20 overs)

RCB: 153/10 (19.4 overs)

Result: LSG won by 28 runs.

4.LSG vs RCB (May 1, 2023)

RCB: 126/9 (20 overs)

LSG: 108/10 (19.5 overs)

Result: RCB won by 18 runs.

5.RCB vs LSG (April 10, 2023)

RCB: 212/2 (20 overs)

LSG: 219/9 (20 overs)

Result: LSG won by 1 wicket.

MORE:'Want to play World Cup with Virat & Rohit': LSG's Prince Yadav

RCB vs LSG: Head-to-head record in IPL

There have been a total of seven encounters between RCB and LSG in the IPL’s history. RCB has an upper hand, winning five games against LSG, who have won twice.

In the only play-off meeting between the two sides, RCB defeated LSG by 14 runs in an Eliminator tie during IPL 2022.

TeamMatchesWonLostTiedNRWin %
RCB7520071.43%
LSG7250028.57%

RCB vs LSG: Head-to-head record at M. Chinnaswamy Stadium

Both of LSG's wins against RCB have come at M. Chinnaswamy Stadium. In a flashpoint at this venue, during IPL 2023, Virat Kohli reacted aggressively after LSG won the game on the last ball, and Avesh Khan threw his helmet to celebrate the victory.

TeamMatWonLostNo result
RCB3120
LSG3210

MORE:Which IPL team has the most consecutive losses at home?

RCB vs LSG: Head-to-head record at Ekana Stadium

RCB have dominated the rivalry at Ekana Stadium, winning both of their meetings at this venue, notably stifling LSG for just 108 while defending a score of 126/9.

TeamMatWonLostNo result
RCB2200
LSG2020

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Did Yuzvendra Chahal vape on a flight? Arshdeep Singh posts, then allegedly crops viral video amid Riyan Parag vaping row

Did Yuzvendra Chahal vape on a flight? Arshdeep Singh posts, then allegedly crops viral video amid Riyan Parag vaping row originally appeared on Cricket News. Add Cricket News as a Preferred Source by clicking here.

KEY TAKEAWAYS:

  • Yuzvendra Chahal allegedly filmed vaping on a flight with PBKS teammates.
  • Arshdeep Singh's vlog was reportedly edited, with Chahal footage allegedly cropped.
  • Rajasthan's Riyan Parag was separately fined for vaping in the dressing room.

Did Yuzvendra Chahal vape on a flight? Viral video allegations rock Punjab Kings mid-season

A video posted on Punjab Kings pacer Arshdeep Singh's official YouTube channel has landed the franchise in the middle of an uncomfortable controversy.

In the footage, Yuzvendra Chahal, seated beside vice-captain Shashank Singh during what is believed to be a team flight from Ahmedabad to Hyderabad, appears to be concealing and lighting a smoking object.

The clip was part of a travel vlog Arshdeep had uploaded, which seemingly showed the squad in transit during the ongoing IPL 2026 season.

A social media user posted screenshots and short clips from Arshdeep's vlog, alleging that Chahal was vaping aboard the aircraft. The same user later claimed that the original video was subsequently edited and made shorter, with the portions showing Chahal allegedly removed from the final cut. 

The user further alleged possession of the unedited version and doubled down on the accusation that Chahal had brought a vaping device onto the plane.

WATCH: Chahal allegedly vaping inside a flight

Yuzi Vaping on Flight ?? How did he took it inside flight?? CISF doesn't allow Vapes or E-Cigarettes on Flights! #IPL2026#PBKS#YuziChahalpic.twitter.com/251KtppCmn

— Ankan Kar (@AnkanKar) May 7, 2026

This Chanchal chutmarika Chahal vaping in flight on Arshdeep YouTube video.

Arshdeep has now edited the video and cropped Yuzi Chahal from most of it.

You can see here the video duration was 16:56 minutes, but now the video duration is 16:01 minutes.

Also, you can still notice… pic.twitter.com/YB0K51EjL9

— Jo Kar (@i_am_gustakh) May 6, 2026

Neither Chahal, Arshdeep Singh, Punjab Kings, nor the IPL has responded to or acknowledged the allegations in any official capacity. The claims are entirely unverified at this stage, and no independent confirmation of the video's contents or context has been possible. 

Riyan Parag was caught in a separate  vaping incident

Rajasthan Royals captain Riyan Parag was caught on broadcast cameras appearing to use an electronic vaping device inside the dressing room during his side's IPL fixture against Punjab Kings.

The cameras picked up the moment in the 16th over after Parag had been dismissed and returned to the dugout. The Board of Control for Cricket in India acted swiftly, docking 25% of Parag's match fees and handing him 1 demerit point. 

MORE: WATCH: Riyan Parag caught vaping in dressing room

The Cricket News Opinion: Not a good advertisement for IPL

The Parag incident was confirmed on camera and dealt with through proper channels.  

Now, it remains to be seen if Chahal also faces the brunt from the board. Nonetheless, it is not a good advertisement for the cricket board or the IPL brand. 

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What happened in the last 5 IPL matches at Ekana Cricket Stadium? Results, toss trends and Lucknow pitch report

Ekana Stadium Lucknow

What happened in the last 5 IPL matches at Ekana Cricket Stadium? Results, toss trends and Lucknow pitch report originally appeared on Cricket News. Add Cricket News as a Preferred Source by clicking here.

KEY TAKEAWAYS:

  • LSG began its IPL 2026 campaign with an opener against DC in Bengaluru.
  • LSG are struggling in the 2026 campaign.
  • Ekana Stadium in Lucknow,  pitch report, and toss trends detailed.

Last 5 T20 match results and scores at Ekana Stadium, Lucknow

The Ekana Stadium in Lucknow has hosted 32 IPL matches in its history. It will host its fifth match in 2026 on May 7 when Lucknow Super Giants will take on Royal Challengers Bengaluru.

1. LSG vs RCB (May 27, 2025)

LSG: 227/3

RCB: 230/4

Result: RCB won by 6 wickets (with 8 balls remaining)

2. LSG vs DC (Apr 1, 2026)

LSG: 141/10

DC: 145/4

Result: DC won by 6 wickets (with 17 balls remaining)

3. LSG vs GT (Apr 12, 2026)

LSG: 164/8

GT: 165/3

Result: GT won by 7 wickets (with 8 balls remaining)

4. LSG vs RR (Apr 22, 2026)

RR: 159/6

LSG: 141/10

Result: RR won by 40 wickets

5. LSG vs KKR (Apr 26, 2026)

LSG: 155/7

KKR: 155/7

Result: KKR won in super over

Toss trends: Should teams choose to bat or bowl first?

Due to the nature of the surface at the Ekana Stadium in Lucknow, the team winning the toss would prefer bowling first, as teams chasing on this ground are more likely to win. 

Pitch report

Lucknow's Ekana Stadium is generally a good surface for the batters. In the last six innings, five of them have had scores of above 200. 

IPL 2026 Schedule - Ekana Stadium, Lucknow

DateMatchTime (IST)
April 1, 2026Lucknow Super Giants vs Delhi Capitals7:30 PM
April 12, 2026Lucknow Super Giants vs Gujarat Titans3:30 PM
April 22, 2026Lucknow Super Giants vs Rajasthan Royals7:30 PM
April 26, 2026Lucknow Super Giants vs Kolkata Knight Riders7:30 PM
May 7, 2026Lucknow Super Giants vs Royal Challengers Bengaluru7:30 PM
May 15, 2026Lucknow Super Giants vs Chennai Super Kings7:30 PM
May 23, 2026Lucknow Super Giants vs Punjab Kings7:30 PM

Who do you think will win IPL 2026?To keep up to date with all the latest cricket news and share your opinion on the biggest topics visit our FacebookInstagram and X (Twitter) pages.

IPL 2026 winner odds & latest betting: Who will win Indian Premier League this season?

The IPL 2026 playoff race is beautifully, brilliantly poised. Sunrisers Hyderabad after the initial poor run has made a very strong comeback. Pat Cummins’ side are sitting  top with 14 points from 11 matches, winning seven and looking every inch like a team that knows exactly what it is doing. 

Punjab Kings are on a string of poor run of form with three losses on the bounce but they had such a strong start they have breathing space. They are second with 13 points. 

Royal Challengers Bengaluru, meanwhile, carry the most devastating run rate in the tournament at +1.420. They have played nine matches and have won six.

Rajasthan Royals sit level on 12 points alongside Gujarat Titans, both sides scrapping furiously for that fourth playoff berth, separated only by the finest of margins in run rate.

Chennai Super Kings, the old warhorses, are not done yet. Five wins from ten matches keeps them firmly in the hunt.

Delhi Capitals and Kolkata Knight Riders find themselves in uncomfortable territory — eight and seven points respectively — needing wins and favours from elsewhere to keep their seasons breathing.

Mumbai Indians have been a profound disappointment. Three wins from ten matches and need plenty of things to go their way to have any chance.And Lucknow Super Giants, rooted to the bottom with just four points, face the very real prospect of being the first side to be eliminated if they don’t get the job done against RCB tonight! 

Who won IPL 2025?

Royal Challengers Bengaluru (RCB) won the IPL 2025 title, claiming their first-ever IPL trophy after 18 seasons. In a thrilling final at Ahmedabad, RCB defeated Punjab Kings (PBKS) by 6 runs. RCB posted 190/9 in 20 overs, with captain Rajat Patidar leading the charge and Virat Kohli contributing a steady 43.

Punjab Kings, despite a valiant 61 off 30 balls from Shashank Singh, finished at 184/7 in their 20 overs. Key bowling performances for RCB included Krunal Pandya (2/17) and Bhuvneshwar Kumar (2/38), who took crucial wickets at the death overs.

When is the IPL 2026 season?

IPL 2026 kicked off on March 28 with reigning champions Royal Challengers Bengaluru hosting Sunrisers Hyderabad in Bengaluru. The league will run till 31 May. 

IPL 2026 winner odds and latest betting

The latest betting odds for IPL 2026, by Dafabet:

Team

Odds*

Royal Challengers Bengaluru

3.80

Sunrisers Hyderabad

4.25

Punjab Kings

4.50

Rajasthan Royals

7.50

Gujarat Titans

9.00

Chennai Super Kings

13.00

Mumbai Indians

67.00

Kolkata Knight Riders

151.00

Delhi Capitals

201.00

Lucknow Super Giants

N/A

* Odds correct at time of publish but subject to change

How to Bet on IPL 2026 Games

IPL 2026 is just around the corner and the excitement is already building up! You can place your bets on all IPL 2026 matches right here on Dafabet, one of India's most trusted betting platforms. From match winners to outright tournament champions, Dafabet covers it all. Simply head over to Dafabet, create your account, and start betting on your favourite IPL teams today!

Popular IPL Betting Markets

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IPL Match Today, LSG vs RCB: Predicted playing XI, head-to-head, pitch report, Lucknow weather update

Royal Challengers Bengaluru return from their IPL break still placed second on the table, but the playoff race around them has tightened considerably. What once looked like a comfortable top-four push has now turned into a crowded six-team battle, meaning even one poor result could dramatically alter standings.

Despite their strong position, RCB have a few concerns to address. All three of their defeats this season have come while batting first, exposing issues with balancing scoring tempo and middle-order transitions. Vice-captain Jitesh Sharma’s lack of runs has also impacted their batting flow.

Meanwhile, Lucknow Super Giants sit at the bottom of the table after a disappointing campaign marked by inconsistency. Captain Rishabh Pant recently admitted the team has struggled for momentum and luck.

However, LSG remain dangerous opponents because they now play without pressure. Nicholas Pooran’s return to form showed they still possess match-winning potential, and with little left to lose, they could still disrupt the playoff ambitions of teams like RCB.



LSG vs RCB: Head-to-Head



  • Matches played: 7
  • Lucknow Super Giants won: 2
  • Royal Challengers Bengaluru won: 5


LSG vs RCB Today IPL Match: Pitch Report




For today’s IPL 2026 Match 50 between Lucknow Super Giants (LSG) and Royal Challengers Bengaluru (RCB) at the BRSABV Ekana Stadium, the pitch is expected to be a sluggish, low-scoring surface that favors bowlers. The black-soil surface is traditionally slow and offers significant grip, making it a testing ground for batters to play through the line. Spinners and slower-ball specialists are expected to dominate the middle overs as the ball tends to hold in the surface.


LSG vs RCB IPL Match: Lucknow Weather Update



The weather in Lucknow is expected to be generally clear during the playing hours, with a minor threat of brief showers. Currently, it is 26°C in Lucknow with 69% humidity. Winds are moving at approximately 11 km/h, adding a slight breeze to the otherwise warm and humid conditions. It will be a warm start at 33°C near toss time, cooling down to a comfortable 24°C by the end of the game.


LSG vs RCB: Predicted Playing XIs



Lucknow Super Gaints (Playing XI): Mitchell Marsh, Josh Inglis, Nicholas Pooran, Rishabh Pant (c&wk), Aiden Markram, Akshat Raghuwanshi, Himmat Singh, Mohammed Shami, Mohsin Khan, Price Yadav, Avesh Khan

Impact Player: Digvesh Rathi

Royal Challengers Bengaluru (Playing XI): Jacob Bethell, Virat Kohli, Devdutt Padikkal, Rajat Patidar (c), Jitesh Sharma (wk), Tim David, Romario Shepherd, Krunal Pandya, Bhuvneshwar Kumar, Josh Hazlewood, Suyash Sharma

Impact Player: Rasikh Salam Dar


LSG vs RCB: Live Streaming details



The LSG vs RCB clash will be held at the Bharat Ratna Shri Atal Bihari Vajpayee Ekana Cricket Stadium, Lucknow with the match set to begin at 7:30 PM IST. The game will be broadcast on the Star Sports Network, while live streaming will be available on JioHotstar.

Why IPL teams feel home advantage has vanished as 220+ scores become the norm

NEW DELHI: The scores of over 220 seem inevitable in this IPL. Much of it has to do with the kinds of surfaces that are being produced. While the fans and experts are consumed by the madding frequency of these gigantic scores, there are concerns in a section of franchises which feel that the idea of home advantage is almost non-existent now.

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It’s because of the stringent measures taken by the Indian cricket board (BCCI) to keep franchises away from interfering in the preparation of the pitches. On Tuesday night, Delhi Capitals coach talked about the unpredictability of the surface at the Ferozeshah Kotla where they have lost four of their five matches this season.



“As much as one would like to think that we are in control of the surface that we want to play on, there is a clear mandate from the BCCI that they look after the surfaces and they are the ones who ensure that there's no local side that gets benefit out of the surfaces. So you play what is presented to you. And yes, it's been a bit of an up-and-down curve for us to understand what we are going to get at Delhi, which is our home,” Badani said after their loss to Chennai Super Kings on Tuesday.

“There has been a game where we scored 75. In one game 265 was chased down. Again, this was a surface which spun. Ideally, you want to have some consistency. It’s not about us. I think the whole competition is quite neutral that way,” he added.

BCCI recommendations favour high-scoring games

TOI understands that the recommendations shared by the board suggest that there should be minimal help for bowlers. BCCI has adopted its policy from domestic cricket and implemented it in IPL where one curator from the board will be at the venue with the local curator to see there isn’t much interference. During the IPL playoffs and final, the board’s central team of curators will completely take over the venues.

The recommendations suggest boundaries no longer than 77 metres and pitches can offer little lateral movement and no excessive spin. Pitches must have uniform grass cover which will rule out dry pitches.

“There are few teams who have stronger spin-bowling attack. They would prefer a little slower and sluggish pitches. Some teams have very potent seam attack and they prefer a little more help for the new-ball bowlers. But now every pitch is almost similar. It doesn’t matter if one team is travelling or not. The players expect similar conditions across all venues,” a franchise member close to the development told TOI.

Another franchise member said it is the reason why there have been embarrassing collapses whenever there has been a little bit of help for the bowlers. “The batters go in with the expectation that pitch will play true and flat. But whenever there’s a little more purchase from the pitch for the bowlers, they struggle to adapt,” said a franchise source.
130880399

Now that the tournament is nearing its business end and the summer heat taking over, the pitches are going to tire out and the scores are expected to come down considerably. It will be interesting to see if the franchises and the BCCI can find a middle path and let there be some home advantage.

'Ball was bouncing unusually': R Ashwin decodes Punjab Kings’ fielding woes vs SRH

In the IPL 2026 clash on May 6, Punjab Kings endured a disastrous outing in the field, dropping three crucial catches and missing a key stumping opportunity during their 33-run defeat to Sunrisers Hyderabad. The costly errors handed major lifelines to SRH’s top batters, who made Punjab pay heavily on their way to a formidable 235/4. Former India spinner Ravichandran Ashwin decoded the possible reasons behind Punjab Kings’ sloppy fielding display during the clash against Sunrisers Hyderabad, pointing to the tricky outfield conditions and uneven bounce at the Hyderabad stadium.


Ishan Kishan dropped twice


Ishan Kishan survived two major chances during his explosive innings of 55 off 32 balls.

  • Over 7.1: Cooper Connolly put down a straightforward catch at deep backward square off Lockie Ferguson when Kishan was on just 9.
  • Over 11: Ferguson himself grassed another opportunity at deep midwicket off Yuzvendra Chahal with Kishan batting on 18.



Heinrich Klaasen gets a lifeline


Heinrich Klaasen was also handed a reprieve early in his innings.

  • Over 8.4: Shashank Singh dropped a regulation catch at deep backward square off Chahal when Klaasen was on 9.

Klaasen capitalised in brutal fashion, smashing a match-defining 69 off 43 deliveries to finish as SRH’s top scorer.


— IPL (@IPL)



Missed stumping adds to PBKS misery



Punjab’s struggles behind the stumps further compounded their problems when wicketkeeper Prabhsimran Singh missed a stumping chance against Kishan in the 11th over off Chahal’s bowling.

Despite a sensational maiden IPL century from Connolly, an unbeaten 107 off 59 balls, Punjab Kings ultimately fell short in the chase, unable to recover from the damage caused by their fielding errors as SRH sealed a convincing 33-run victory.

Former India spinner Ravichandran Ashwin decoded the possible reasons,

“I’m not making excuses, but something definitely looked off with Punjab Kings’ fielding this time. They dropped far too many catches. Even when Ricky Ponting was being interviewed during the match, he mentioned that poor fielding spreads like a virus through a team,” Ashwin said.
130882289

Ashwin particularly highlighted the dropped catch by Cooper Connolly and linked it to the nature of the outfield near the boundary ropes.

“One thing I noticed was Cooper Connolly’s dropped catch. Just before that, he had misfielded a boundary as well. From that, you could clearly understand that the ball was bouncing unusually near the boundary line. Even in the previous match at the Hyderabad stadium, the ball was kicking up sharply. This usually happens when the outfield becomes very hard and loses its softness,” he explained.


— TheFakeFakeer (@TheFakeFakeer)


The veteran off-spinner also analysed the missed stumping by Prabhsimran Singh and felt the wicketkeeper was caught off guard by the unexpected bounce.

“Prabhsimran’s missed stumping happened because I don’t think he was fully prepared for that kind of bounce. When Ishan Kishan stepped out, he expected the ball to come normally onto the gloves, but it suddenly bounced more than expected. He couldn’t judge it in time. Since he isn’t very tall, he has to read that bounce earlier than most keepers,” Ashwin added.

LSG vs RCB Live win probability, prediction, odds & chances of victory in IPL 2026 clash

Lucknow Super Giants will host Royal Challengers Bengaluru in IPL 2026 at the Ekana Stadium in Lucknow on Thursday.

LSG have lost six matches in a row and occupy the bottom spot on the table

They have won just two from nine games, and are nearly out of contention for the play-offs after Monday's six-wicket loss to Mumbai Indians.

In contrast, RCB are one of the consistent performers in their title-defending campaign. They are near the top with six wins from nine matches. However, their previous fixture ended in a four-wicket defeat to Gujarat Titans.

Previously, RCB defeated LSG by five wickets, chasing a target of 147 runs in 15.1 overs when the two teams met earlier this season.

MORE: Visit Cricket News for all the latest cricket coverage and opinion

Live Scorecard

 

LSG vs RCB IPL 2026: Win probability and toss result

Toss: Toss to take place at 7 p.m.

LSG vs RCB IPL 2026: Predicted Playing XI

LSG playing XI: Mitchell Marsh, Aiden Markram, Ayush Badoni, Rishabh Pant (c/wk), Nicholas Pooran, Mukul Choudhary, Mohammed Shami, George Line, Mohsin Khan, Prince Yadav, Digvesh Rathi

Impact players: Akshat Raghuvanshi, Himmat Singh, Abdul Samad, Avesh Khan

RCB predicted playing XI: Jacob Bethell, Virat Kohli, Devdutt Padikkal, Rajat Patidar (c), Jitesh Sharma (WK),  Tim David, Romario Shepherd, Krunal Pandya, Bhuvneshwar Kumar, Josh Hazlewood, Suyash Sharma.

Impact subs: Rasikh Dhar, Jordan Cox, Mangesh Yadav, Vicky Ostwal, Venkatesh Iyer. 

MORE: Visit Cricket News for all the latest cricket coverage and opinion

LSG vs RCB IPL 2026: Win percentage

TeamWin probability
LSG35%
RCB65%

LSG vs RCB: Betting odds

Royal Challengers Bengaluru are the favourites to win this IPL 2026 match at 1.61 on Dafa, while the odds for Lucknow Super Giants to win are 2.34

TeamOdds
LSG2.34
RCB1.61

 

Salil Ankola, ex-India pacer and national selector, battling depression; undergoing treatment at mental health care centre

MUMBAI: Former India and Mumbai fast bowler and ex-national selector Salil Ankola is suffering from severe depression and has been admitted to a rehab centre near Pune, TOI has learnt.

"Yes, Salil was suffering from depression and hence a couple of weeks ago, he got himself admitted to a mental health care centre near Pune. Salil was very upset ever since he lost his mother in Oct 2024, and was unable to process her passing away. So, recently, when he saw himself breaking down and was falling sick very often, he chose to get himself treated in a good place and in a peaceful environment, " Salil's wife Ria Ankola told TOI.

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She informed that Ankola was on the path to recovery from his low phase. "We, as a family, are very happy that he has chosen to take a break instead of completely breaking down. He is recovering very well, working out regularly and will be back in no time to his first love, which was, is and will always be cricket, because he has always been a fighter and always comes out stronger than before. We, his family and his friends are always there to support him,” Ria said.



“The cricket fraternity has been very kind to support him in his decision of taking a small break from work to heal himself," she added.

Almost a couple of decades back, Ankola underwent rehab due to alcohol addiction, but it's learnt that this time, it is a case of depression as he quit alcohol long back.

Ankola was appointed as the national selector on January 7, 2023, and was in the post till Aug 2024. He was also Mumbai's chief selector from 2021-23.

The 58-year-old has been commentating in domestic cricket and in the IPL for the past few years.

Ankola played a solitary Test for India against Pakistan at Karachi in 1989, and was the other debutant in the match besides legends Sachin Tendulkar and Waqar Younis. He took two wickets in that match. He had also played 20 ODIs, capturing 13 wickets. A key pacer for Mumbai in the 90s, Ankola featured in 54 first-class matches in which he took 181 wickets, with best figures of 6-47. The Mumbaikar retired at the age of just 28 in 1997 because of a tumour in his chin, due to which couldn’t pursue his cricket career any further.

Subsequently, he became an actor, and appeared in several TV serials and films.

IPL 2026: 5 dropped catches in 3 matches — PBKS star Shashank Singh faces mounting criticism

NEW DELHI: Punjab Kings batter Shashank Singh has once again found himself under heavy scrutiny after another costly fielding lapse during PBKS’ 33-run defeat against Sunrisers Hyderabad in IPL 2026 on Wednesday.

What began as an isolated mistake earlier in the season is now turning into a major concern for Punjab Kings, with Shashank having dropped five catches across his last three matches — a worrying trend at a crucial stage of the tournament.



The latest error came at the Rajiv Gandhi International Stadium in Hyderabad when Shashank dropped a crucial chance offered by Heinrich Klaasen off Yuzvendra Chahal’s bowling. At that point, Klaasen was batting on just nine runs.

The SRH batter made Punjab pay dearly for the missed opportunity, hammering 69 off 43 deliveries and completely shifting the momentum in Hyderabad’s favour.

Costly fielding lapses hurt PBKS again


Shashank’s latest drop added to an already difficult IPL season in the field.

Earlier, he had put down three catches against Lucknow Super Giants and also dropped KL Rahul during Punjab’s clash against Delhi Capitals. One of those moments against LSG became particularly viral after he badly misjudged a boundary catch attempt.

Shashank had recently returned from a hamstring strain that forced him to miss matches against Rajasthan Royals and Gujarat Titans, but his struggles continued immediately upon comeback.

— StarSportsIndia (@StarSportsIndia)


Punjab Kings head coach Ricky Ponting admitted the batter was enduring a rough phase.

“Poor Shashank Singh, it seems the ball is flying everywhere he’s going,” Ponting remarked during the match.

Punjab skipper Shreyas Iyer also pointed directly towards the dropped chances after the loss.

“It was a bit too much because we dropped catches at the start. The wicket kept getting slower. They played comprehensive cricket and showed us how to win the match,” Iyer said. “We weren't that comprehensive enough on the field, nor in bowling, nor in batting.”

Meanwhile, Punjab’s fielding woes overall proved costly against SRH. Cooper Connolly dropped Ishan Kishan early in the innings, while Lockie Ferguson and Prabhsimran Singh also missed crucial opportunities.

The reprieves allowed SRH to post a massive 235/4, powered by Klaasen’s 69 and Kishan’s 55.

In reply, PBKS were restricted to 202/7 despite Cooper Connolly’s sensational unbeaten 107.

The defeat marked Punjab’s third successive loss, although they still remain second on the points table with six wins in 10 matches. SRH, meanwhile, climbed to the top with seven wins from 11 games.

PAK vs AUS ODI series 2026: Will Australia players miss IPL 2026 playoffs for Pakistan tour?

Travis Head Australia

PAK vs AUS ODI series 2026: Will Australia players miss IPL 2026 playoffs for Pakistan tour? originally appeared on Cricket News. Add Cricket News as a Preferred Source by clicking here.

KEY TAKEAWAYS:

  • Australia will tour Pakistan for a three-match ODI series starting May 30.
  • Several key players may be unavailable due to IPL commitments and rest rotation.
  • It will be Australia's first ODI tour of Pakistan since 2022. 

PAK vs AUS 2026: Australia head to Pakistan for first ODI series in four years

Australia are heading back to Pakistan for a 50-over series for the first time since 2022, with the Pakistan Cricket Board confirming the tour on Thursday.

That previous visit, four years ago, ended in a 2-1 series victory for the hosts. Earlier this year, Australia also toured Pakistan for a three-match T20I assignment, where they were swept 3-0 in Lahore.

The touring party is scheduled to land in Islamabad on May 23, with the first of three ODIs set for Rawalpindi on May 30. The final two matches move to the Gaddafi Stadium in Lahore on June 2 and June 4, with all three games beginning at 4:30 pm local time.

MORE: IND vs AUS: Australia’s Men, Women, U19 teams to visit India before 2027 BGT

Will Australia players play IPL 2026 playoffs?

The opening ODI falls a day before the IPL 2026 final at Ahmedabad's Narendra Modi Stadium, meaning players whose franchises reach the playoff stage will almost certainly not be available at the start of the tour.

Players who might be eliminated earlier in the competition, among them ODI captain Mitchell Marsh (Delhi Capitals), wicketkeeper Josh Inglis (Lucknow Super Giants), and Cameron Green (Kolkata Knight Riders), could realistically make it to Rawalpindi in time for the first match.

MORE: CA offers Cummins mega contract to fend off franchise cricket's $10 million lure

Which Australian players are likely to miss out on the Pakistan tour?

Pat Cummins, Josh Hazlewood, Mitchell Starc, and Travis Head are expected to be rested ahead of the Test series against Bangladesh in August, making this series a likely opportunity for fringe players to stake their claims. 

Cooper Connolly, Xavier Bartlett, Ben Dwarshuis, and Matthew Short may also be given some time away ahead of Australia's white-ball tour of Bangladesh in June.

On the other hand, Alex Carey, Adam Zampa, and Marnus Labuschagne, featured in the Pakistan Super League recently, and are likely to be available.

Nathan Ellis, who missed the IPL with a hamstring problem, has returned to bowling and could feature, while Matthew Renshaw is also in contention.

Pakistan vs Australia ODI 2026 schedule list

DateEventVenue
May 23Australia arriveIslamabad
May 301st ODIRawalpindi Cricket Stadium, Rawalpindi
June 22nd ODIGaddafi Stadium, Lahore
June 43rd ODIGaddafi Stadium, Lahore

IPL 2026 Playoff Schedule

The summit clash will be held on May 31, and the venue has been changed from M Chinnaswamy Stadium, Bengaluru, to Narendra Modi Stadium, Ahmedabad.

MatchDateVenueTeams
Qualifier 1May 26, 2026HPCA Stadium, Dharamshala1st place vs 2nd place
EliminatorMay 27, 2026New International Cricket Stadium, New Chandigarh3rd place vs 4th place
Qualifier 2May 29, 2026New International Cricket Stadium, New ChandigarhLoser of Q1 vs Winner of Eliminator
FinalMay 31, 2026Narendra Modi Stadium, AhmedabadWinner of Q1 vs Winner of Q2

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IPL 2026: Abhishek Sharma scripts history, hits 300 sixes to enter elite club

Abhishek Sharma made an immediate impact at the top for Sunrisers Hyderabad in their IPL 2026 clash against Punjab Kings at the Rajiv Gandhi International Stadium, producing a quickfire cameo that set the tone for a high-scoring outing.

The left-hander scored 35 off just 13 balls, striking two fours and four sixes during his brief stay. He got going straight away, launching Arshdeep Singh for a maximum off the second ball of the innings. He followed it up by taking on Marco Jansen in the next over, clearing the ropes twice more, before adding another six off Lockie Ferguson. His aggressive approach, however, came to an end when he attempted another aerial stroke and was caught by Shreyas Iyer.


Despite the short stay, Abhishek reached a significant milestone, becoming only the sixth batter in the world to complete 300 T20 sixes in India. The benchmark in this category continues to be set by Rohit Sharma, who leads the list by a clear margin.

Most T20 sixes in India:


PlayerMatchesRunsSixes
Rohit Sharma3208647388
Chris Gayle1364841357
Virat Kohli29310,083348
Sanju Samson2757363337
Suryakumar Yadav2787142317
Abhishek Sharma153*4722*302*

SRH’s innings gathered further momentum through Heinrich Klaasen and Ishan Kishan, who made the most of multiple lapses in the field to push the total to 235 for four. Klaasen, dropped early on nine, went on to score 69 off 43 balls, hitting three fours and four sixes.

Kishan also enjoyed a slice of luck, surviving both a dropped catch and a missed stumping before compiling a brisk 55 off 32 balls, including two boundaries and four sixes. The duo ensured SRH maintained control through the middle overs and beyond.


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For Punjab, Yuzvendra Chahal was the standout bowler with figures of 1/32, but his effort was overshadowed by poor support in the field. Multiple dropped chances and a missed stumping, all coming off his bowling, left him visibly frustrated as SRH capitalised to post a formidable total.

SRH create unique IPL record with unmatched Hyderabad dominance over PBKS

NEW DELHI: Sunrisers Hyderabad continued their extraordinary dominance over Punjab Kings at the Rajiv Gandhi International Stadium on Wednesday, scripting a unique piece of IPL history with a commanding 33-run victory that sent them to the top of the IPL 2026 points table.

The win marked SRH’s ninth successive victory over PBKS in Hyderabad — now the longest winning streak by one team against an opponent at a single venue in IPL history.

The record-breaking streak surpassed Chennai Super Kings’ eight straight wins against Royal Challengers Bengaluru at Chepauk between 2010 and 2024.



Longest winning streaks at a venue in IPL


  • 9 – SRH vs PBKS at Hyderabad (2015-26)
  • 8 – CSK vs RCB at Chennai (2010-24)
  • 7 – CSK vs DC at Chennai (2011-23)
  • 7 – MI vs KKR at Wankhede (2013-23)


Also, this was SRH's 10th win in 11 matches against PBKS in Hyderabad, making them the second-most successful team against an opponent at a single venue in IPL history. Mumbai Indians hold the record in this regard, with 11 wins in 13 matches against Kolkata Knight Riders at the Wankhede Stadium.

Most wins against an opponent at a venue in the IPL


  • 11 - MI vs KKR at Wankhede (13 mats)
  • 10 - SRH vs PBKS at Hyderabad (11 mats)*
  • 9 - KKR vs PBKS at Kolkata (15 mats)
  • 9 - CSK vs KKR at Chennai (13 mats)


The latest chapter in SRH’s dominance was powered by another batting masterclass led by Heinrich Klaasen, whose explosive 69 off 43 balls helped SRH pile up a daunting 235/4 at home.

Klaasen, Kishan punish PBKS after blazing start


After being put in to bat, SRH openers Abhishek Sharma and Travis Head once again unleashed carnage in the powerplay. The pair raced to 54 runs in just 21 deliveries, with Abhishek smashing 35 off 13 balls while Head hammered 38 at breakneck pace.

Punjab’s sloppy fielding then made matters worse.

Ishan Kishan survived multiple chances — dropped on nine by Cooper Connolly, reprieved again on 18 by Lockie Ferguson, and later escaping a simple stumping opportunity by Prabhsimran Singh. Klaasen too got a life on nine when Shashank Singh spilled a catch.

The missed opportunities proved costly as Klaasen and Kishan stitched together a decisive 88-run partnership. Kishan struck 55 while Klaasen accelerated brilliantly at the death before falling off the final ball of the innings.

The South African wicketkeeper-batter also climbed to the top of the Orange Cap standings with 494 runs in 11 matches this season.

Connolly’s historic hundred not enough


Punjab’s chase never truly took off after Pat Cummins removed Priyansh Arya in the opening over and Nitish Kumar Reddy dismissed Prabhsimran Singh soon after.

Marcus Stoinis and Suryansh Shedge got starts but failed to convert them as wickets continued to tumble regularly.

Only young Australian Cooper Connolly stood tall amid the collapse. The 22-year-old smashed an unbeaten 107 — his maiden IPL century — and became the youngest overseas player to score a hundred in IPL history, surpassing Quinton de Kock’s previous record.

With the emphatic win, SRH moved to 14 points from 11 matches and strengthened their push for a top-two finish, while PBKS surrendered the top spot after another disappointing outing in Hyderabad.

IPL 2026: Vaibhav Sooryavanshi ‘could be burnt out by 21’ - explosive claim on RR prodigy

NEW DELHI: Teenage batting sensation Vaibhav Sooryavanshi continues to leave the cricket world in awe, and now even former England captains Michael Vaughan and Alastair Cook have joined the growing conversation around the Rajasthan Royals prodigy — with a humorous twist.

During a discussion on the Stick to Cricket podcast, Vaughan and Cook marvelled at the 15-year-old’s astonishing rise in the IPL before joking about the possibility of him being “burnt out by 21”.

Sooryavanshi has become one of the biggest stories in franchise cricket since making his IPL debut in April 2025 at just 14 years and 23 days old. In only 17 IPL matches across the 2025 and 2026 seasons, the youngster has already amassed 656 runs at an average of 38.59 and a jaw-dropping strike rate of 224.66, including two centuries and three half-centuries.



The left-hander created history in IPL 2025 when he smashed 101 off just 38 balls against Gujarat Titans, becoming the youngest-ever T20 centurion. His hundred came in only 35 deliveries — the second-fastest century in IPL history.

He followed it up in IPL 2026 with another blistering ton, hammering 103 off 37 balls against Sunrisers Hyderabad.

Speaking on the podcast, Vaughan highlighted how rapidly the youngster is closing in on some of the league’s most explosive records.

“This kid has already hit 100 in 35 and 36. He's catching up with the boss,” Vaughan said, referring to Chris Gayle’s record 30-ball IPL century.

Vaughan also pointed to Sooryavanshi’s remarkable six-hitting ability.

“Most sixes by any Indian batter in IPL history is 42 by Abhishek Sharma in 2024. This kid's on 37 now. They're the best six hitter in the world as we speak,” he added.

The conversation then took a humorous turn when one of the panelists joked, “He could be burnt out by 21.”

Vaughan responded with another quip: “He will have enough cash by 21, he might retire.”

Cook then delivered the punchline that left the panel laughing: “He can’t be burnt out, he plays 30 balls.”

Beyond the IPL, Sooryavanshi has already built a glittering resume. He starred in India’s victorious 2026 Under-19 World Cup campaign and was named Player of the Tournament after smashing 175 off 80 balls in the final against England.

At just 15, Sooryavanshi is not merely breaking records — he is rapidly redefining expectations for young batters in T20 cricket.

IPL 2026: In disbelief! Yuzvendra Chahal's reaction to dropped catches goes viral - Watch

NEW DELHI: Punjab Kings spinner Yuzvendra Chahal had a frustrating outing against Sunrisers Hyderabad after his teammates repeatedly dropped catches off his bowling.

SRH batters made full use of those missed chances and piled up a huge total of 235 on a batting-friendly Hyderabad pitch.

The dropped catches became a major talking point, especially because Chahal had created several wicket-taking opportunities. However, Punjab’s poor fielding let the match slip away.




Statistics showed that six catches have now been dropped off Chahal’s bowling this IPL season — the highest for any bowler in IPL 2026.

Shashank Singh was at the centre of the fielding troubles, accounting for four dropped catches this season, the second-most by any fielder in the tournament.

During the SRH match, he dropped a straightforward chance offered by Heinrich Klaasen at deep backward square leg. Instead of a wicket, the ball slipped away for four runs, adding to Punjab’s misery.

The dropped catch left Chahal in disbelief, with his reaction going viral across social media platforms.

Watch:

— StarSportsIndia (@StarSportsIndia)


Klaasen and Ishan Kishan both survived after chances were missed off Chahal’s bowling and went on to punish Punjab heavily. Their innings helped SRH post a massive score that proved too difficult to chase.

On a surface where bowlers had very little help, fielding mistakes became even more costly. Chahal, one of Punjab’s main wicket-taking bowlers this season, was visibly frustrated as crucial chances went begging.

The sloppy fielding ultimately played a big role in SRH’s dominant performance and added another disappointing chapter to Punjab’s disappointing run of three defeats.

IPL 2026: 'Dropped catches cost us'- Shreyas Iyer rues missed chances as PBKS suffer third straight defeat

Sunrisers Hyderabad produced a dominant performance to beat Punjab Kings and move to the top of the IPL 2026 table, as Heinrich Klaasen and Ishan Kishan capitalised on sloppy fielding to power their side to a strong total before the bowlers sealed control in the chase.

Heinrich Klaasen (69) and Ishan Kishan (55) helped Sunrisers Hyderabad reach 235/4 after Punjab Kings opted to bowl. In reply, Punjab Kings were restricted to 202/7 despite a stunning unbeaten century from Cooper Connolly (107*), as SRH’s disciplined bowling ensured they claimed a 41-run win and climbed to the top of the table.

For Punjab Kings, it was a third consecutive defeat, with dropped catches proving costly throughout the innings. Klaasen and Kishan both survived early chances before punishing the attack, while SRH’s bowlers, including Pat Cummins and Shivang Kumar, applied constant pressure in the chase.

PBKS captain Shreyas Iyer was candid after the loss, pointing to fielding lapses as the key difference between the two sides.

“I think it was a bit too much (the target) because we dropped many catches at the start and we could have easily delayed their score by 30 to 40 runs, I guess. Because the wicket kept getting slower and the cutters were holding up a bit. So we weren't that comprehensive enough on the field, nor in bowling, nor in batting. So I think they played comprehensive cricket and they showed us how to win the match.”

Reflecting on his team’s recent slump after a strong start to the season, he added:

“I feel we got a fairy tale start in this tournament and everyone were in a great space and the mindset was top notch. I think it's important that we stick with the same mindset. It's easy to get diverted with talking negative about things. But definitely we got to go back, reflect on things that we didn't do well in the particular last three matches and see to it that we come back strong.”

Iyer also praised the fighting spirit of Cooper Connolly, who kept PBKS in the contest almost single-handedly:

“He's phenomenal (Connolly). His mindset is top notch and the character he brings onto the field. It's something that all players can learn from him. And apart from that, I feel that he's got a knack of scoring big runs in pressure situations. He has done it in the past and today was the right example. He was fearless and his attitude was fantastic against left-handers (Chahal).”

He further admitted that fielding errors changed the course of the game:

“I asked him to be attacking, especially when the new batsmen were in because they were on the charge right from ball one. And it was crucial to get wickets at that point of time. Unfortunately, we weren't able to take catches. I think that was the biggest setback for us in today's game. But definitely something to reflect on and come back stronger.”

IPL 2026: Heinrich Klaasen goes top of Orange Cap list after match-winning knock vs PBKS

Heinrich Klaasen has surged to the top of the Orange Cap standings after his fluent 69 off 43 balls against Punjab Kings, a knock that helped Sunrisers Hyderabad secure a crucial win and climb to the top of the table.

Klaasen’s innings, which included three fours and four sixes, underlined his consistency this season. He now leads the run charts with 494 runs in 11 matches, averaging 54.89 at a strike rate of 157.32. What makes his effort stand out even more is his batting position. Unlike most players in the top run-scorers list, Klaasen operates outside the top three, making his numbers even more impressive given the limited balls he often faces.

Right behind him is Abhishek Sharma, who continues to dominate at the top of the order. He has scored 475 runs in 11 matches at an average of 47.50, striking at a remarkable 210.18. His aggressive approach has been a key factor in SRH’s success this season.

KL Rahul sits third with 445 runs from 10 matches, averaging 49.44 at a strike rate of 180.89. He has combined stability with intent, playing anchor roles while still maintaining a high scoring rate.

Ishan Kishan is fourth on the list with 409 runs in 11 matches. He has averaged 37.18 and scored at a strike rate of 186.76, often providing brisk starts and maintaining momentum through the middle overs.

Teenage sensation Vaibhav Sooryavanshi has been one of the standout performers this season. With 404 runs in 10 matches, he has averaged 40.40 while striking at an extraordinary 237.65, the highest among the leading run-scorers. His fearless hitting has made him one of the most exciting batters in the tournament.

Sanju Samson completes the top group with 402 runs in 10 matches. He boasts the best average among the leading names at 57.43, along with a strong strike rate of 167.50, highlighting his ability to anchor and finish games under pressure.


Orange Cap standings (IPL 2026):


PlayerMatchesInnsRunsAvgSR4s6s
Heinrich Klaasen111149454.89157.323623
Abhishek Sharma111147547.50210.184336
KL Rahul101044549.44180.894424
Ishan Kishan111140937.18186.764122
Vaibhav Sooryavanshi101040440.40237.653537
Sanju Samson101040257.43167.504221

IPL 2026: Yuzvendra Chahal scripts unwanted record thanks to Punjab Kings’ butter fingers

NEW DELHI: Yuzvendra Chahal could only stare in disbelief as another catch went down in the deep. Punjab Kings may have entered their crucial clash against Sunrisers Hyderabad with playoff ambitions, but their fielding effort threatened to undo all plans in a matter of overs.

The numbers make the story even uglier for Punjab Kings. Six catches have now been dropped off Chahal’s bowling this season — the highest for any bowler in IPL 2026.

Shashank Singh alone has already dropped four catches this year, the second-most by any fielder after Mumbai Indians’ Naman Dhir.





On flat surfaces like Hyderabad, bowlers survive on half-chances and moments of brilliance from fielders. Chahal created those opportunities repeatedly. Punjab Kings simply failed to hold on when it mattered most.

On a batting-friendly Hyderabad surface where every opportunity matters, PBKS simply could not afford butter fingers — yet that is exactly what unfolded around Chahal.

The leg-spinner has quietly been one of Punjab’s most important wicket-taking options this season, but his frustration reached another level on Wednesday night. Heinrich Klaasen and Ishan Kishan both survived despite gifting chances off Chahal’s bowling, leaving the spinner visibly shattered in the middle.

The first blow came when Heinrich Klaasen top-edged a sweep straight towards Shashank Singh at deep backward square-leg. It was the kind of catch fielders are expected to complete almost every single time in professional cricket.

Instead, Shashank fumbled the straightforward chance and, to make matters worse for Punjab, the ball raced away for four. Chahal instantly dropped to his haunches in frustration while skipper Shreyas Iyer struggled to hide his disappointment.

Watch:

— StarSportsIndia (@StarSportsIndia)


Things only worsened later. Ishan Kishan miscued another delivery from Chahal, producing a top-edge that should have been safely collected by Lockie Ferguson near the boundary.

But the New Zealand pacer misjudged the ball completely and spilled another regulation catch. Chahal once again bent over in disbelief as another wicket disappeared.
Yesterday — 6 May 2026Main stream

IPL Toss Today: PBKS choose to field as Nitish Kumar Reddy comes back into SRH XI

Punjab Kings won the toss and opted to field in a high-stakes clash against Sunrisers Hyderabad, with both sides looking to bounce back after recent defeats in IPL 2026.

This contest brings together two of the most explosive batting units in the league. Punjab Kings currently sit at the top of the table with 13 points, but back-to-back losses have tightened the race. Sunrisers Hyderabad are close behind in third place with 12 points, making this a crucial encounter in the playoff race. Both teams are coming off defeats, with Kolkata Knight Riders ending SRH’s five-match winning streak, while Gujarat Titans got the better of PBKS.




PBKS skipper Shreyas Iyer chose to bowl first, backing his side to chase after SRH successfully did so in their previous outing. He also highlighted the team’s learnings despite recent losses and confirmed one change in the XI. “We will bowl first. So far we have learned amazing things in the last few matches we have lost. We have no complaints so far because of travelling. Everyone are holding up well as professionals. Last match SRH chased so I thought we will bowl. Shashank comes in,” he said.

SRH captain Pat Cummins admitted he would have preferred to bowl as well but remained confident of putting up a strong total. “I also would have bowled first. Hopefully we come up great tonight. The crowds have supported us very well this season. I can't really judge the pitch, hopefully we will put some runs on the board. Nitish is back for us tonight,” he said, confirming the return of Nitish Kumar Reddy.

Teams:

Punjab Kings (Playing XI): Prabhsimran Singh(w), Cooper Connolly, Shreyas Iyer(c), Shashank Singh, Suryansh Shedge, Marcus Stoinis, Marco Jansen, Lockie Ferguson, Vijaykumar Vyshak, Arshdeep Singh, Yuzvendra Chahal

Sunrisers Hyderabad (Playing XI): Abhishek Sharma, Travis Head, Ishan Kishan(w), Heinrich Klaasen, Salil Arora, Smaran Ravichandran, Nitish Kumar Reddy, Pat Cummins(c), Shivang Kumar, Eshan Malinga, Sakib Hussain

With both teams stacked with power-hitters and plenty on the line, a high-scoring contest could be on the cards.

IPL 2026: Will Nitish Kumar Reddy play vs PBKS today? SRH coach drops big hint

All eyes are on Nitish Kumar Reddy ahead of Sunrisers Hyderabad’s crucial IPL 2026 clash against table-toppers Punjab Kings, with head coach Daniel Vettori offering an encouraging update on the all-rounder’s availability.

Reddy had missed SRH’s previous match against Kolkata Knight Riders due to illness, raising concerns over his participation in a high-stakes encounter. However, Vettori indicated that the youngster is on track to return. “He’s feeling a lot better. We don’t see a situation where he won’t play,” Vettori said, hinting strongly at Reddy’s inclusion in the playing XI.



“He brings balance” — Vettori on Reddy’s importance

The SRH coach underlined the value Reddy brings to the side, comparing him to key all-rounders in the Punjab setup. “Nitish is like a Marco Jansen or a Marcus Stoinis in the Punjab team. They offer so much balance to a lineup and make my life a lot easier when it comes to selecting the team,” he explained.

Reddy’s absence was felt in SRH’s seven-wicket loss to KKR, where their batting lacked depth despite contributions from Travis Head and Ishan Kishan. His likely return is expected to strengthen both departments as SRH look to bounce back.

High-stakes clash as playoff race tightens

Vettori also stressed the importance of the contest against table-toppers Punjab Kings, while acknowledging the challenge. “Anyone can beat anyone on a given day. We understand the importance of this game, but they are at the top for a reason,” he said.

Punjab, despite leading the standings with 13 points from nine matches, come into the game under pressure after back-to-back defeats. Their once-dominant batting has shown signs of inconsistency, with the top order struggling for rhythm and the middle order failing to build partnerships.


130857685

In contrast, SRH — led by Pat Cummins — have been one of the most balanced sides this season. Abhishek Sharma and Heinrich Klaasen have provided consistency with the bat, while the bowling unit has impressed with its control, especially in the death overs.

As the playoff race intensifies, Reddy’s fitness could prove pivotal. His expected return not only boosts SRH’s balance but also adds another dimension to their already formidable unit in what promises to be a defining clash in Hyderabad.

Sanju Samson not in peak physical condition, says Sanjay Manjrekar; Cites Virat Kohli example

Sanjay Manjrekar believes Sanju Samson should take inspiration from Virat Kohli when it comes to fitness, suggesting that Samson is not yet at the same physical level as the former India captain.

Samson has been one of the standout performers for Chennai Super Kings in IPL 2026. After struggling in his first three matches following his blockbuster Rs 18 crore move from Rajasthan Royals, the wicketkeeper-batter staged a remarkable comeback. Since then, he has scored two centuries and a half-century, amassing 402 runs in 10 matches at an average of 57.42 to remain firmly in the Orange Cap race.


His latest match-winning effort came against Delhi Capitals, where he smashed an unbeaten 87 off 52 balls on a tricky pitch to guide CSK to victory and earn the Player of the Match award. Samson also became the first batter in IPL history to be involved in two 100-plus partnerships against Delhi Capitals in the same season.

Earlier in the campaign, Samson registered an unbeaten 115 against Delhi Capitals in Chennai and followed it up with another century 101 against Mumbai Indians at the Wankhede Stadium. He also crossed the landmark of 5,000 IPL runs during CSK’s clash against Kolkata Knight Riders in April 2026.

While Samson has transformed his season and carried forward the momentum from his memorable T20 World Cup comeback, Manjrekar feels the 31-year-old still has room for improvement in terms of fitness and longevity. The former India batter urged Samson to follow Kohli’s disciplined fitness standards in order to sustain his purple patch in the shortest format.
130854797

“I’m saying that about Sanju Samson as well, who’s also not a 25-year-old because he’s hit the peak of his achievements, just to sustain it. He could also do the same thing, because I see him also not being in peak physical condition,” the Mumbaikar said on Sportstar’s Insight Edge Podcast.

“When you have a great example, like Virat Kohli, who has had such a long career. You know, just because he’s given fitness so much importance. He’s had tremendous skills, but he’s made sure that the body doesn’t let him down. Because that’s the one you can control,” he added.

Will Hardik Pandya play against RCB in IPL 2026? Latest injury update and availability for MI's next match

Will Hardik Pandya play against RCB in IPL 2026? Latest injury update and availability for MI's next match originally appeared on Cricket News. Add Cricket News as a Preferred Source by clicking here.

KEY TAKEAWAYS:

  • Hardik Pandya missed MI's last game against LSG earlier this week.
  • MI next face RCB in a must-win clash in IPL on Sunday. 
  • Hardik Pandya did not travel to Raipur for Sunday's clash.

What happened to MI captain Hardik Pandya?

Mumbai Indians captain Hardik Pandya has experienced a nightmare IPL 2026 campaign, both as a player and as the skipper of MI side.

The star Indian all-rounder has been unable to perform with both bat and ball and under his leadership, MI have lost seven out of the 10 matches they have played thus far.

In their last game against Lucknow Super Giants, a must-win tie, fans were left surprised when Suryakumar Yadav walked out for the toss, alongside Rishabh Pant. 

After the toss, SKY confirmed that Pandya was not keeping well and thus he temporarily took charge of the team. To the broadcaster, Yadav said: "Hardik Pandya is unwell with a back spasm, hence Suryakumar Yadav is captain for today's game."

MI, however, are yet to provide any update on Pandya's condition formally, while the players are also tight-lipped. When asked about their captain, Ryan Rickleton said: "I don't know when he's expected to be back. I only found out this afternoon that he had back spasms. So I'm not aware of the extent of it - I wouldn't even call it an injury - or how serious it is or what he's feeling. But I'm sure he'll be back with the group as we head to Raipur this week."

MORE: MI’s biggest defeats in IPL history: Full list of Mumbai Indians’ heaviest losses by runs

Will Hardik Pandya play against RCB in IPL 2026? Latest injury update

According to Cricbuzz, MI players assembled at Mumbai airport to travel to Raipur to face Royal Challengers Bengaluru in a crucial and must-win encounter on Sunday, May 10. 

However, Pandya was nowhere to be found at the airport as the players prepared to board their flight. MI are yet to confirm whether Pandya would join the team in Raipur later this week. 

It now remains to be seen if the all-rounder regains full fitness in the next couple of days and flies off to Raipur by the weekend. 

MORE: MI's IPL 2026 playoff chances detailed: Qualification scenarios, wins and points required for Mumbai Indians

The Cricket News Opinion: Suryakumar Yadav capable of replacing Hardik Pandya as captain

India's T20 World Cup-winning captain Suryakumar Yadav inspired MI to a crucial win over LSG in their last game.  MI headed into the game on the back of a series of losses and the tie against LSG was a must-win clash for the five-time champions to remain in the hunt for a playoff spot in IPL 2026.

Under SKY's leadership, MI once again looked like the dangerous outfit they once were as they comfortably chased down 229 runs, inspired by brilliant knocks from Rohit Sharma and Rickleton.

Even if Pandya cannot lead MI against RCB, fans can rest assured that SKY is more than capable of taking the leadership role and inspiring MI to yet another victory. 

To keep up to date with all the latest cricket news and share your opinion on the biggest topics visit ourFacebookInstagram and X (Twitter) pages.

IPL 2026 final in Ahmedabad; Mullanpur and Dharamsala to host playoffs as Bengaluru loses out

New Delhi: The final of the 2026 edition of the Indian Premier League is set to be played at the Narendra Modi Stadium in Ahmedabad on May 31, TOI has learnt. The likely dates for the playoffs are May 26 (Qualifier 1), May 27 (Eliminator) and May 29 (Qualifier 2). The playoffs will be played in Mullanpur and Dharamsala.

The decision to host the IPL title clash in Ahmedabad, not Bengaluru, goes against the convention of the final being played at the home of the reigning champions. In this case, the final should have been played at the M Chinnaswamy Stadium in Bengaluru, home of last year's title winners Royal Challengers Bengaluru.



"Owing to certain operational and logistical considerations, the IPL 2026 Playoffs will be conducted across three venues this season as a special case," said an IPL statement.

"Bengaluru was originally designated to host the Final. However, owing to certain requirements from the local association and authorities that were beyond the scope of BCCI's established guidelines and protocols, the venue has been shifted and reassigned," it continued.

It is understood that the ongoing administrative mess regarding the tickets at the Chinnaswamy Stadium forced the Board of Control for Cricket in India to shift the title clash back to the venue that hosted the 2025 edition's final.

Even last year, the IPL final was moved from Kolkata's Eden Gardens to Ahmedabad due to weather forecast and 2026's title clash is going to be the fourth at that venue in last five years. Chennai hosted the final between Sunrisers Hyderabad and Kolkata Knight Riders in 2024.

The IPL is now entering the business end with as many as seven teams in contention for a playoffs berth. Punjab Kings, last year's runners-up, are top of the table with 13 points from nine matches and are followed by Royal Challengers Bengaluru, Sunrisers Hyderabad and Rajasthan Royals.

As many as four teams are tied at 12 points each and the coming week could give a better picture of who is more likely to advance to the knockout stage of the tournament.

IPL 2026 PLAYOFFS


May 26: Qualifier 1 at HPCA Stadium, Dharamshala

May 27: Eliminator at New International Cricket Stadium, New Chandigarh

May 29: Qualifier 2 at New International Cricket Stadium, New Chandigarh

May 31: Final at Narendra Modi Stadium, Ahmedabad

IPL 2026, SRH vs PBKS Preview: Sunrisers Hyderabad look to regain lost ground

HYDERABAD: Early pace-setters Punjab Kings and Sunrisers Hyderabad have hit a road bump. Their winning run was halted on Sunday by teams in the lower half of the table and that jolt could just be the wakeup call they needed to regroup and regain lost ground.

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It’s a long tournament and with everything to gain, teams are making their moves before it’s too late in the IPL, where peaking early is fraught with danger. Kolkata Knight Riders have strung three wins in a row and Mumbai Indians found their range the other day with their big guns striking at will.



KKR and MI are still playing catch-up but with four teams having 12 points each and only a point — from the abandoned match against Kolkata Knight Riders — separating them from pole-sitters Punjab, teams will have to factor in complacency and fickle form.

Punjab Kings, whose middle order is being adroitly manned by skipper Shreyas Iyer, have had few worries on that count. Delhi Capitals will vouch for the force of the collective after KL Rahul’s unbeaten 152 was laid to waste with Iyer brilliant in chasing down Delhi’s 264/2.

The self-belief and can-do spirit in the Punjab ranks has been infectious with Iyer at the forefront. His catch to get rid of Hardik Pandya while still aerial and his game smarts to relay the ball, all in one motion, to Xavier Bartlett charging in from long-off was cleanly executed and stunning in effect. Sunrisers Hyderabad’s Heinrich Klaasen displayed some of that same clinical execution — also against Mumbai — and the hosts will need more from him in the crunch match against Punjab on Wednesday.

The quick turnaround after the defeats SRH and Punjab suffered to Kolkata and Gujarat Titans respectively on Sunday, when both teams looked flat and totally off-colour, should not be an impediment for the in-form teams to turn on the style as they look to pull away from the rest in the race to the playoffs.

IPL Match Today, SRH vs PBKS: Predicted playing XI, head-to-head, pitch report, Hyderabad weather update

Sunrisers Hyderabad and Punjab Kings are set for a high-scoring clash on Hyderabad’s batting-friendly Pitch No. 2, where short boundaries and a flat surface are expected to heavily favour the batters. Both teams have been the fastest-scoring sides in the Powerplay during IPL 2026, maintaining scoring rates above 11.5 runs per over, while also dominating the middle overs.

With explosive hitters like Shreyas Iyer, Heinrich Klaasen, Shashank Singh and Marcus Stoinis in the line-ups, the match is expected to turn into a run-fest. SRH head coach Daniel Vettori even admitted concern for the bowlers ahead of the game.

Despite remaining at the top of the table, PBKS enter the contest after back-to-back defeats, with their bowling emerging as a concern. On a surface where wickets could prove decisive, Punjab’s bowlers will need to deliver under pressure. SRH, meanwhile, will aim to bounce back strongly after their dramatic collapse against Kolkata Knight Riders, hoping the return to a flatter batting track helps revive their aggressive approach.





SRH vs PBKS: Head-to-Head



  • Matches played: 25
  • Sunrisers Hyderabad won: 17
  • Punjab Kings won: 8


SRH vs PBKS Today IPL Match: Pitch Report


The today's match between Sunrisers Hyderabad (SRH) and Punjab Kings (PBKS) at the Rajiv Gandhi International Stadium is expected to be a high-scoring encounter on a flat, batting-friendly surface. SRH has already posted totals above 240 twice at this venue this season. Both teams' batting lineups are in strong form. Fast bowlers who can hit the deck and extract early bounce under lights will be crucial during the powerplay.


SRH vs PBKS IPL Match: Hyderabad Weather Update



The weather in Hyderabad for today’s SRH vs PBKS match is expected to be hot and dry, with no significant threat of rain to disrupt play. While the afternoon will see intense heat, conditions will become more manageable by the 7:30 PM IST start. Dew is expected to become a major tactical factor during the second innings, which may assist the team batting second as the ball becomes slippery for bowlers.


SRH vs PBKS: Predicted Playing XIs



Sunrisers Hyderabad (Playing XI): Abhishek Sharma, Travis Head, Ishan Kishan (w), Heinrich Klaasen, Nitish Kumar Reddy, Salil Arora, Aniket Verma, Pat Cummins (c), Harsh Dubey, Sakib Hussain, Praful Hinge

Impact Player: Eshan Malinga

Punjab Kings (Playing XI): Prabhsimran Singh(wk), Priyansh Arya, Cooper Connolly, Shreyas Iyer(c), Marcus Stoinis, Suryansh Shedge, Nehal Wadhera, Marco Jansen, Xavier Bartlett, Arshdeep Singh, Yuzvendra Chahal

Impact Player: Vijaykumar Vyshak


SRH vs PBKS: Live Streaming details



The SRH vs PBKS clash will be held at the Rajiv Gandhi International Stadium, Hyderabad with the match set to begin at 7:30 PM IST. The game will be broadcast on the Star Sports Network, while live streaming will be available on JioHotstar.

SQUADS OF PUNJAB AND HYDERABAD

Punjab Kings Squad: Priyansh Arya, Prabhsimran Singh(w), Cooper Connolly, Shreyas Iyer(c), Marcus Stoinis, Suryansh Shedge, Nehal Wadhera, Marco Jansen, Xavier Bartlett, Arshdeep Singh, Yuzvendra Chahal, Harpreet Brar, Vishnu Vinod, Vijaykumar Vyshak, Musheer Khan, Mitchell Owen, Ben Dwarshuis, Praveen Dubey, Lockie Ferguson, Shashank Singh, Yash Thakur, Azmatullah Omarzai, Harnoor Singh, Pyla Avinash, Vishal Nishad

Sunrisers Hyderabad Squad: Abhishek Sharma, Travis Head, Ishan Kishan(w), Heinrich Klaasen, Salil Arora, Aniket Verma, Smaran Ravichandran, Pat Cummins(c), Shivang Kumar, Harshal Patel, Eshan Malinga, Praful Hinge, Harsh Dubey, Liam Livingstone, Sakib Hussain, Zeeshan Ansari, Jaydev Unadkat, Kamindu Mendis, Gerald Coetzee, Nitish Kumar Reddy, Dilshan Madushanka, Krains Fuletra, Onkar Tarmale, RS Ambrish, Amit Kumar

Today's match in IPL 2026: Schedule, times and venue for Indian Premier League cricket on May 6, 2026

In IPL today, we will see a blockbuster clash as Sunrisers Hyderabad take on Punjab Kings in what has all the makings of a genuine title race showdown. SRH have had a remarkable turnaround, winning five on the bounce before KKR halted them, while PBKS have had two successive defeats after going unbeaten in seven. Both sides have had their wobbles. But both have had the quality to produce something special tonight in Hyderabad. 

Where will the IPL 2026 matches be held on Tuesday May 6 and this week?

Match

Date

Teams

Venue

49

Wed, May 6

Sunrisers Hyderabad vs Punjab Kings

Rajiv Gandhi International Stadium, Hyderabad

50

Thu, May 7

Lucknow Super Giants vs Royal Challengers Bengaluru

Ekana Cricket Stadium, Lucknow

51

Fri, May 8

Delhi Capitals vs Kolkata Knight Riders

Arun Jaitley Stadium, Delhi

52

Sat, May 9

Rajasthan Royals vs Gujarat Titans

Sawai Mansingh Stadium, Jaipur

IPL 2026: Sunrisers Hyderabad hope for Nitish Reddy’s return

HYDERABAD: Sunrisers Hyderabad’s head coach Daniel Vettori said that the team is focused on against a very good side in Punjab Kings.

“Anyone can beat anyone on a given day. We are sure about the importance of this game but we also understand that they are at the top of the table for a reason,” he said.

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Vettori hoped that Nitish Kumar Reddy will pass the fitness test. “He’s feeling a lot better. We don’t see a situation where he won’t play tomorrow.” Asked if Nitish’s absence affected the team’s performance, Vettori said: “Nitish is like a Marco Jansen or a Marcus Stoinis in the Punjab team. They just offer so much balance to a lineup and makes my life a lot easier when it comes to selecting the team.”



The Kiwi also felt that Punjab rely heavily on their openers Prabhsimran Singh and Priyansh Arya. “Their opening combination had complementary performances from their batting line-ups. Like us they they’re very aggressive with the bat. So you would anticipate a high-scoring game and it’s the bowling unit that can deal with that pressure really.”

Punjab Kings’ assistant coach Brad Haddin echoed similar sentiments. “SRH are a strong side and we need to get early wickets. Don’t let (Travis) Head and Abhishek (Sharma) bat long” he said when asked about the plan.

The back-to-back losses are not concerning for the Australian. “It is about playing your best cricket right at the end of the tournament and that’s what our team is striving for. They’re striving for that perfect game. If we find that, we’ll be hard to beat and that’s what we wanted to be throughout the whole tournament,” he said.

'We don’t control pitch': Hemang Badani responds after DC’s 4th consecutive home loss

Delhi Capitals head coach Hemang Badani, faced tough questions regarding his team’s performance, and tactical decisions after their defeat to Chennai Super Kings in the Indian Premier League 2026 on Tuesday.

Delhi Capitals suffered a top-order collapse and failed to recover on a tricky Arun Jaitley Stadium surface, eventually losing to CSK by eight wickets. The defeat marked DC’s fourth loss of the season at their home ground. The Arun Jaitley Stadium has witnessed extreme variations in scoring this season, ranging from record-breaking chases to dramatic batting collapses.


Here are DC's result in their home ground Arun Jaitley stadium in IPL 2026:

DateOpponentResultKey Highlight
4 AprilMumbai IndiansWon by 6 wicketsSameer Rizvi named Player of the Match
8 AprilGujarat TitansLost by 1 runGT scored 210/4; DC fell just short
25 AprilPunjab KingsLost by 6 wicketsPBKS chased down DC’s massive 264/2
27 AprilRoyal Challengers BengaluruLost by 9 wicketsDC bundled out for a season-low 75 runs
5 MayChennai Super KingsLost by 8 wicketsSanju Samson’s unbeaten 87* guided CSK to victory


Badani was questioned on whether the decision to bat first backfired on a difficult surface. Responding to the criticism, he explained that the franchise has very little control over the nature of the pitch prepared by the curator, despite Arun Jaitley Stadium being Delhi Capitals’ home venue.

"We don't have any control over the surfaces. It is a lot easier for a side to field 20 overs and then understand what the surface would be when they bat second, and that is pretty much what happened. I thought the game was lost in the first 10 overs when we didn't get enough; we were about 70 for 5, and you don't want to be 70 for 5 even if it is a tough surface. It has been a bit of an up-and-down curve for us to understand what we are going to get at Delhi, which is our home. One game was a 265, but there is little control that any side has on surfaces,'' Hemang Badani said during post match press conference.

Where will IPL 2026 final be held? Venue, date and timings explained

Where will IPL 2026 final be held? Venue, date and timings explained originally appeared on Cricket News. Add Cricket News as a Preferred Source by clicking here.

KEY TAKEAWAYS:

  • Bengaluru's Chinnaswamy Stadium has been denied all IPL 2026 playoff matches.
  • The MLA ticket controversy is reportedly the reason behind BCCI's decision.
  • The IPL final will be held in Ahmedabad on May 31. 

IPL 2026 final to be played at the Narendra Modi Stadium in Ahmedabad

The M. Chinnaswamy Stadium, home of defending champions Royal Challengers Bengaluru, did not receive a single knockout fixture. 

The final heads to Ahmedabad's Narendra Modi Stadium on May 31, while Dharamshala and New Chandigarh share the Qualifier and Eliminator duties.

MORE: IPL 2026 Playoffs: Schedule, dates, venue for Eliminator, Qualifiers

When is the Final of IPL 2026?

The IPL 2025 final will take place on Sunday, May 31. 

Where is the Final of IPL 2026?

The grand final of IPL 2026 will be held at the Narendra Modi Stadium in Ahmedabad.

What time is the Final of IPL 2026?

The final will start at 7:30 p.m. IST. 

Why was Bengaluru denied the right to host IPL 2026 final?

The trouble traces back to the very first game of the season, when RCB hosted Sunrisers Hyderabad at the Chinnaswamy Stadium. Ahead of that match, Congress MLA Vijayanand Kashappanavar publicly demanded that each sitting MLA be handed a minimum of five IPL tickets.

He suggested that elected officials should not be expected to go through the same process as ordinary ticket buyers. The statement caused immediate backlash.

Deputy Chief Minister D.K. Shivakumar attempted to draw a line under it by announcing that three tickets per home RCB match would be allocated to MLAs and MPs for the remainder of the season. 

IPL 2026 Playoff Schedule

The summit clash will be held on May 31, and the venue has been changed to Narendra Modi Stadium in Ahmedabad from M Chinnaswamy Stadium, Bengaluru.

MatchDateVenueTeams
Qualifier 1May 26, 2026HPCA Stadium, Dharamshala1st place vs 2nd place
EliminatorMay 27, 2026New International Cricket Stadium, New Chandigarh3rd place vs 4th place
Qualifier 2May 29, 2026New International Cricket Stadium, New ChandigarhLoser of Q1 vs Winner of Eliminator
FinalMay 31, 2026Narendra Modi Stadium, AhmedabadWinner of Q1 vs Winner of Q2

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IPL 2026: No fortress, no momentum — Delhi Capitals’ season unravels at home

NEW DELHI: Arun Jaitley Stadium was painted yellow on Tuesday evening. Everywhere the eye went, in every stand that celebrated the best that Delhi has ever produced, a trove of yellow jerseys was unmissable. They were there in groups and in small numbers, but their presence was hard to ignore. At one point, chants of 'Dhoni, Dhoni' rang out. Ironically, the former India captain, or 'Thala' as he's more affectionately called by the Chennai Super Kings faithful, hadn't even travelled to the capital and is yet to play a game this IPL season.

At the other end, bar a small section of DC Toli, Delhi Capitals fans were conspicuous by their absence. The blue-and-red of the home side had little to show for themselves and little cause to erupt over the course of Match 48 of IPL 2026.


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Having won the toss and opted to bat, DC never got going, and only a late show from Tristan Stubbs (38 from 31 balls) and Sameer Rizvi (40 from 24) helped reach a respectable 155/7.

Chennai Super Kings, led by Sanju Samson's 87 off 52 balls at the top of the order, and Kartik Sharma's unbeaten 41 from 31, sauntered to the total with 15 balls and 8 wickets to spare.

As a result, DC are seventh in the IPL standings with one win in the last five played or two in the last eight. They are only better than the Kolkata Knight Riders, Mumbai Indians and Lucknow Super Giants at this juncture.

Besides harbouring slim hopes of making the playoffs, what is common to this bunch is their woeful home record. MI (33.3 per cent win record at home), KKR (25 per cent), DC (20 per cent), and LSG (0 per cent) have all had a dreadful home run, which goes hand-in-hand with their overall poor season.

In contrast, CSK, who are sixth after back-to-back victories, have the third-best home record (60 per cent win record at home). The four teams in playoff spots - Punjab Kings, Royal Challengers Bengaluru, Sunrisers Hyderabad and Rajasthan Royals - all have strong home win records of 75 per cent, 80 per cent, 60 per cent and 60 per cent, respectively.

Delhi Capitals have not helped their cause with a variety of surfaces on offer, while conditions have been inconsistent due to unseasonal rains and cooler temperatures in the evening.

The afternoon fixture against the Punjab Kings was a flat deck and ended up producing 529 runs. Then, against Royal Challengers Bengaluru, a lively track saw DC bundled for just 75.

On Tuesday, a surface that hadn't been used yet was expected to slow down by DC skipper Axar Patel. By the end, though, he witnessed the opposite and well-set batters were the need of the hour. Where DC barely found any, CSK had Samson and Karthik produce an unbeaten 114-run stand.

Delhi Capitals coach Hemang Badani admitted they've struggled in most departments and have to adapt better to conditions and pitches.

"We do not control the pitch. The surfaces are managed under BCCI guidelines to ensure neutrality," he said in the post-match media conference.

"You play what is given to you. Yes, it has been slightly unpredictable at our home ground. One game had a very high score, and another assisted spin.

"But that is the case for all teams. You have to adapt and find ways to win," he stated.

Badani said the need of the hour is to win all four of their remaining matches, with two coming at home. But for that, the inconsistencies need to be addressed.


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"One day, we bowl well but do not bat well. Another day, we bat well but fall short in another area.

"At this level, you need at least 60 to 70 per cent of your players contributing on a given day. That has been missing," he finished.

Sanju Samson refuses to be 'selfish' for 100 vs DC: Why the CSK star chose Gautam Gambhir’s way over Virat Kohli’s record feat

Sanju Samson

Sanju Samson refuses to be 'selfish' for 100 vs DC: Why the CSK star chose Gautam Gambhir’s way over Virat Kohli’s record feat originally appeared on Cricket News. Add Cricket News as a Preferred Source by clicking here.

KEY TAKEAWAYS:

  • Sanju Samson finished unbeaten on 87, sacrificing a century to help CSK win.
  • He followed Gautam Gambhir's "team over self" philosophy instilled in the Indian dressing room.
  • CSK have now won five on the bounce, and are firmly back in playoff contention.

Sanju Samson puts team before milestone, passes up chance to match IPL century record

Sanju Samson scored a scintillating 87* off 52 balls against Delhi Capitals at the Arun Jaitley Stadium on Tuesday evening to steer Chennai Super Kings to an eight-wicket victory.

After driving and pulling his way to 66 from 36 balls, including a brutal 16 runs plundered off a single T Natarajan over in the 15th, he needed just 21 more runs to complete a third century of the season. 

Only three batters in IPL history have managed three or more hundreds in a single edition: Virat Kohli, who scored four in 2016; Jos Buttler, who matched that tally in 2022; and Shubman Gill, who reached three in 2023.

With Chennai needing only 18 runs to win, the target was reachable, and the record was staring Samson in the face.

Rather than nudging singles to retain the strike and inch towards three figures, he stepped aside and allowed young Kartik Sharma, who was timing the ball beautifully at the other end, to take the game home.

Sharma finished unbeaten on 41 off 31 and hit the winning boundary while Samson remained 87 not out off 52 balls, having struck six sixes and seven fours.

MORE: "BCCI mandate": Badani drops truth bomb on Delhi’s 'unpredictable' pitches

What did Sanju Samson say after the match?

When asked about the decision after the match, Samson was disarmingly candid. He admitted that the hundred was very much on his mind, but said pursuing it would have meant being selfish, and that was not something he was willing to be.

“Hundreds are always special,” Samson admitted. "Yeah, it was (on his desire to get the 100 against Delhi), but I felt I had to be a bit too selfish for that. So I thought, let’s win the game. The other partner was batting really well, and I didn’t want to tell him, ‘ek single de de yaar, main sau bana leta hoon’ [take a single, I’ll get my 100]. So I didn’t say that. I really enjoyed it, coming not out and finishing the game gives you better satisfaction."

MORE: Explained: Why RCB's M Chinnaswamy stadium could miss hosting IPL final

With momentum firmly behind them, Chennai face back-to-back fixtures against Lucknow Super Giants, at home on May 10 and then away on May 15, which could prove decisive in confirming their playoff spot.

Which batsman has the most centuries in a single IPL season?

BatterSeasonCenturiesTeam
Virat Kohli20164Royal Challengers Bengaluru
Jos Buttler20224Rajasthan Royals
Shubman Gill20233Gujarat Titans
Sanju Samson20262*Chennai Super Kings

The Cricket News Opinion: Samson shows class against DC

It was almost word-for-word the philosophy that India head coach Gautam Gambhir has championed publicly, placing collective outcomes above individual glory. Samson, though currently outside the national setup, has clearly internalised that thinking.

Statistics matter in cricket, but moments of selflessness matter more. Samson had every justification to farm the strike and chase that hundred — no one would have criticised him. The fact that he did not, and that he did not even seem conflicted about it, tells you something about where his game is right now. Chennai are better for having him, and Indian cricket will be better for recalling him.

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Explained: Why Royal Challengers Bengaluru's M Chinnaswamy stadium could miss hosting IPL 2026 final

Royal Challengers Bengaluru RCB 06042025

Explained: Why Royal Challengers Bengaluru's M Chinnaswamy stadium could miss hosting IPL 2026 final originally appeared on Cricket News. Add Cricket News as a Preferred Source by clicking here.

KEY TAKEAWAYS:

  • BCCI may shift IPL 2026 final away from Bengaluru over MLA ticket row.
  • Playoffs likely to be split between Punjab and Karnataka venues.
  • Political demands for free MLA tickets have created complications for Bengaluru.

IPL 2026 final venue in doubt as political row threatens Bengaluru's hosting rights

The BCCI is preparing to announce the venues for the IPL 2026 playoffs and final, but the process has been held up by an uncomfortable situation brewing in Karnataka.

Under normal circumstances, the decision would be straightforward; the defending champions traditionally host the final, which would point directly to Bengaluru's M. Chinnaswamy Stadium given Royal Challengers Bengaluru's title triumph last season.

But nothing about this situation feels straightforward right now, and the BCCI has made clear that if the problem is not sorted, the final will be taken elsewhere.

MORE: Gavaskar lashes out at Bumrah as MI star's poor IPL 2026 form continued

What did the BCCI say about IPL final venue?

A source within the board told ANI that the playoff fixtures are expected to be distributed between Punjab and Karnataka.

"The IPL 2026 playoff and final venues will be announced soon. The matches are likely to be divided between Punjab and Karnataka. As per convention, the defending champions should host the final, but the MLA ticket issue is creating problems in Bengaluru. If there is no resolution, the BCCI will move the final to another city," the source told ANI.

MORE: RCB's IPL 2026 playoff chances detailed: Qualification scenarios, wins and points required for Royal Challengers Bengaluru

How did the Bengaluru IPL ticket controversy start?

The dispute started during the IPL 2026 opening game between RCB and Sunrisers Hyderabad. Ahead of that fixture, Congress MLA Vijayanand Kashappanavar made a public statement suggesting that every sitting MLA should be entitled to at least five IPL tickets.

He argued that elected representatives are important enough figures to be exempt from ordinary queuing and purchasing processes. 

Karnataka Deputy Chief Minister D.K. Shivakumar stepped in with what appeared to be a compromise, confirming that three tickets per RCB home match would be set aside for MLAs and MPs during the ongoing tournament. Shortly after, Home Minister G. Parameshwara took a firmer line, pushing back against suggestions that tickets were being misused.

MORE: Can RCB sign an injury replacement for Phil Salt and who are the options?

He stated that tickets for matches at the Chinnaswamy Stadium are sold online and carry a non-transferable status, meaning only the purchaser or an immediate family member can use them. He argued that no misuse was structurally possible given these restrictions. Whether that explanation fully addresses the BCCI's concerns is another matter.

2008-2025: All IPL finals listed

YearWinnerRunner-UpVenue
2008Rajasthan RoyalsChennai Super KingsDY Patil Stadium, Mumbai
2009Deccan ChargersRoyal Challengers BengaluruWanderers Stadium, Johannesburg
2010Chennai Super KingsMumbai IndiansDY Patil Stadium, Mumbai
2011Chennai Super KingsRoyal Challengers BengaluruMA Chidambaram Stadium, Chennai
2012Kolkata Knight RidersChennai Super KingsMA Chidambaram Stadium, Chennai
2013Mumbai IndiansChennai Super KingsEden Gardens, Kolkata
2014Kolkata Knight RidersKings XI PunjabM. Chinnaswamy Stadium, Bengaluru
2015Mumbai IndiansChennai Super KingsEden Gardens, Kolkata
2016Sunrisers HyderabadRoyal Challengers BengaluruM. Chinnaswamy Stadium, Bengaluru
2017Mumbai IndiansRising Pune SupergiantRajiv Gandhi International Stadium, Hyderabad
2018Chennai Super KingsSunrisers HyderabadWankhede Stadium, Mumbai
2019Mumbai IndiansChennai Super KingsRajiv Gandhi International Stadium, Hyderabad
2020Mumbai IndiansDelhi CapitalsDubai International Cricket Stadium, Dubai
2021Chennai Super KingsKolkata Knight RidersDubai International Cricket Stadium, Dubai
2022Gujarat TitansRajasthan RoyalsNarendra Modi Stadium, Ahmedabad
2023Chennai Super KingsGujarat TitansNarendra Modi Stadium, Ahmedabad
2024Kolkata Knight RidersSunrisers HyderabadMA Chidambaram Stadium, Chennai
2025Royal Challengers BengaluruPunjab KingsEden Gardens, Kolkata

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IPL 2026: CSK's disciplined bowling and Sanju Samson’s unbeaten 87 brush aside DC in capital

NEW DELHI: There are very few sports teams that look as out of place in home conditions as Delhi Capitals do at the Ferozeshah Kotla. For the second match in a row here, the Capitals brought their unsure and inept batting forward to post 155/7 for Chennai Super Kings to chase it down with eight wickets and 15 balls to spare on Tuesday evening.

Not for nothing that the local crowd invariably supports the visiting teams. The stadium turned yellow in favour of CSK despite MS Dhoni not even travelling for the game. The deafening roar after each wicket must have been intimidating for Delhi Capitals. That doesn’t help when you are playing for your survival in the tournament. At the end of the day, CSK’s bowling and Sanju Samson’s assured innings of unbeaten 87 off 52 offered a lesson in playing on a comparatively sluggish surface. This is why CSK are still breathing in this tournament while Capitals are now pushed to the brink.




CSK applied the choke with left-arm spinner Akeal Hosein opening the bowliung and returning figures of 1/19 from his four overs. Samson, batting with utmost composure and clarity, anchored and paced the chase to a nicety. That again is reflection of his growing stature as a senior batter which helped the rookie Kartik Sharma to pace his innings with little pressure and score 41 not out off 31 balls. The unbeaten 114-run partnership is sharp commentary on Capital’s lead batters KL Rahul and Axar Patel’s inability to step up in conditions that challenge your tenacity tad more. Kuldeep Yadav’s sub-standard bowling, leaking 34 from his three overs, on a helpful pitch made another dent on his reputation

Rahul, as has been the case with him on slightly tricky surfaces, played out a sedate Powerplay which yielded 37/1 for Capitals. The slog off Hosein was almost a sign of resignation on Rahul’s part as he departed for 12 off 13 in the sixth over of the match. Captain Axar Patel’s struggles look unending.

Tuesday’s proceedings may have been a welcome break from the heady run-scoring trend in the IPL. But it also demonstrated the modern batter’s inability to find a middle ground when the conditions give the bowlers something to work with. Twice in as many matches here, Capitals were forced to use up their Impact Player in the first innings of the match. If it was Abhishek Porel coming out to bat at No. 7 in the Powerplay against Royal Challengers Bengaluru last week, it was Sameer Rizvi’s turn to bring about some respectability at 69/5. But that also meant Capitals couldn’t use their third spinner on a comparatively sluggish track to defend the score in the second half of the match.

It is now established that Rizvi is most comfortable playing sedate knocks in situations that don’t demand a high rate of scoring. And he stuck to his game plan—an ultra-cautious start to his innings and then a flourish at the back end to finish with an unbeaten 40 off 24 balls.

Workload, mental fatigue: Mumbai Indians asked 'to look after' Jasprit Bumrah amid poor form in IPL

Mumbai Indians fast bowler Jasprit Bumrah has taken only three wickets in IPL 2026 despite playing all 10 matches so far. His form has been a concern for the team, which is placed ninth on the points table with three wins and seven losses.

Bumrah has gone at an economy rate of 8.89 and has an average of 109.67 this season.

Speaking on JioHotstar, former India cricketer Irfan Pathan spoke about Bumrah’s form.


"Last season, Jasprit Bumrah picked up 18 wickets in 12 matches at an economy of just 6.7. This season, though, he has really struggled. He has only 3 wickets in 10 games, and his economy is on the higher side as well. When wickets don't come, the economy rate naturally suffers. Right now, his bowling average is 105. Nobody expected a bowler of Bumrah's class to have such poor numbers. Especially after his brilliant performance in the T20 World Cup, watching him struggle like this is very painful," said Pathan.

Former India head coach Ravi Shastri also spoke about possible reasons behind Bumrah’s form.

"Bumrah has entered this IPL off the back of a heavy workload with the Indian team over the last 12 months. His struggles are not just physical. Mental fatigue is a big reason. Mumbai Indians need to look after him. Over the next two years, there is a packed schedule, multiple Test series and the 50-over World Cup are coming up. So, his fitness and workload will have to be managed very carefully," Shastri said.

Mumbai Indians got their third win of the season on Monday when they beat Lucknow Super Giants by six wickets at the Wankhede Stadium.
After choosing to bowl first, MI conceded 228 for five in 20 overs. Nicholas Pooran scored 63 off 21 balls, Mitchell Marsh made 44 off 25 balls, and Himmat Singh remained not out on 40 off 31 balls.

In reply, Mumbai Indians chased down the target in 18.4 overs. Openers Ryan Rickelton (83 off 32 balls) and Rohit Sharma (84 off 44 balls) added 143 runs for the first wicket.

Mumbai Indians now face a situation where another loss could end their playoff chances. In this context, the team will need Bumrah to return to form in the remaining matches.
Before yesterdayMain stream

Rain threat looms over DC vs CSK IPL clash: What if match gets washed out? Playoff equation explained

NEW DELHI: Delhi Capitals will host Chennai Super Kings in match 48 of IPL 2026 at the Arun Jaitley Stadium in Delhi on Tuesday, with both teams looking to stay in contention for the playoffs.

CSK and DC are placed seventh and eighth on the points table with eight points from nine matches each. Another loss could push them into a must-win situation.

Even though both teams are coming into this match after a win, weather could play a role in the game.


Delhi weather forecast for Tuesday

Parts of Delhi saw hail and thunderstorms as an unseasonal spell of rain and cloud cover brought some relief from the heat. The city remains under an orange alert on Tuesday.

The alert covers New Delhi, Central Delhi, West Delhi, North West Delhi, Outer North Delhi, North East Delhi, Shahdara and East Delhi, along with parts of South and South West Delhi. Rain, hail and thunderstorms are expected.

Temperatures have dropped across several areas due to the changing weather.

Dark clouds have been seen over the city since Tuesday afternoon. With rain over the past few nights, there could be interruptions during the DC vs CSK match.

The India Meteorological Department has also forecast possible hailstorms in some parts of the city. The maximum temperature is expected to be around 33 degrees Celsius, with rain and thunderstorms likely later in the day.



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What happens if DC vs CSK is washed out?

If rain leads to a washout, both teams will be affected in the playoff race.

With both teams currently on eight points from nine matches, a washout would give them one point each, taking them to nine points. Their maximum possible points would then be 17.

If they lose any more matches after that, they can reach a maximum of 15 points. With Punjab Kings already on 13 points and four other teams on 12 points each, 15 points may not be enough to qualify for the playoffs.

DC vs CSK IPL 2026 live score, toss winner, winning probability, result and highlights from Arun Jaitley Stadium, Delhi

Tristan Stubbs Delhi Capitals DC IPL

DC vs CSK IPL 2026 live score, toss winner, winning probability, result and highlights from Arun Jaitley Stadium, Delhi originally appeared on Cricket News. Add Cricket News as a Preferred Source by clicking here.

KEY MATCH DETAILS:

  • Venue: Arun Jaitley Stadium, Delhi
  • Captains: Axar Patel (DC), Ruturaj Gaikwad (CSK)
  • Toss result: Delhi Capitals have won the toss and have opted to bat
  • Live Telecast: JioHotstar (India), TBD (Bangladesh), No Broadcast (Pakistan), CricLife Max, StarzPlay (UAE), Willow TV, Fubo, Willow TV app, Sling TV (USA & Canada)
  • Umpires & Match officials: Amit Sharma (Match referee), Kaushik Gandhi (On-field Umpire), Tanmay Srivastava (On-field Umpire), Nitin Menon (TV Umpire), Anish Sahasrabudhe (Fourth Umpire)
  • Match result: TBD.
  • Player of the Match: TBD.

IPL 2026 HUB:Latest IPL News | IPL Points Table | Team Stats | IPL 2026 Squads

Delhi Capitals vs Chennai Super Kings Live Scorecard from IPL 2026

Follow along with the latest live scorecard here as the match unfolds, or click here for key text commentary updates from the action.

DC vs CSK IPL 2026 Updates

Hello everyone and welcome to the live blog for the Delhi Capitals vs Chennai Super Kings clash at the Arun Jaitley Stadium. The two teams met earlier in the campaign at Chennai, where CSK won by 23 runs, courtesy of an unbeaten century from Sanju Samson.

With the two sides stranded in the bottom half of the points table, the result of this match could make or break each side's playoff chances. Who will prevail?

CSK batting updates

  • CSK have lost their skipper, Ruturaj Gaikwad, for just 6 runs. He was visibly struggling, and Ngidi removed him. 
  • Youngster Urvil Patel bites the dust. Axar foxes him and Rahul does not miss the opportunity to stump him. 
  • Samson and Kartik Sharma are the two batters at the crease. 

DC batting updates

  • After six overs, DC are 37/2. Both the openers, Pathum Nissanka and KL Rahul,  have been sent back, and the capital side are in trouble. 
  • Nitish Rana and Karun Nair have a job at their hands. 
  • There has been a mini collapse as Rana, Nair, and Patel have all departed. 
  • Noor Ahmad has taken two wickets, and Gurjapneet Singh took the wicket of Axar Patel. 
  • Tristan Stubbs and Sameer Rizvi have steadied the innings, and after 15 overs, DC are 97/5. 
  • A late surge from DC see them put up 155 on the board. A competitive score on a tricky wicket. 

Toss result: Delhi Capitals have won the toss and have opted to bat

    DC vs CSK: Win Probability

    TeamWin percentage
    DC30%
    CSK70%

    DC vs CSK IPL 2026: Playing XI

    DC playing XI: KL Rahul(w), Pathum Nissanka, Karun Nair, Tristan Stubbs, Nitish Rana, Axar Patel(c), Ashutosh Sharma, Mitchell Starc, Kuldeep Yadav, Lungi Ngidi, T Natarajan

    Impact subs: Vipraj Nigam, Sameer Rizvi, Abishek Porel, Auqib Nabi Dar, David Miller

    CSK playing XI: Sanju Samson(w), Ruturaj Gaikwad(c), Urvil Patel, Kartik Sharma, Dewald Brevis, Jamie Overton, Akeal Hosein, Noor Ahmad, Anshul Kamboj, Mukesh Choudhary, Gurjapneet Singh

    Impact Subs: Shivam Dube, Prashant Veer, Matthew Short, Akash Madhwal, Sarfaraz Khan

    MORE: What happens if an IPL match is cancelled due to rain? Rules and refund details

    Delhi weather update: Chances of rain interrupting play

    Let's take a look at the hourly temperatures and the probability of rainfall in Delhi on Wednesday.

    • 6:00 PM: 32°C (0% chance of rain)
    • 7:00 PM: 31°C (0% chance of rain)
    • 8:00 PM: 30°C (0% chance of rain)
    • 9:00 PM: 29°C (0% chance of rain)
    • 10:00 PM: 28°C (0% chance of rain)
    • 11:00 PM: 28°C (0% chance of rain)

    Key highlights and reactions: DC vs CSK IPL 2026

    IPL 2026 Points Table: Latest updated standings with live DC vs CSK result

    PosTeamPlayedWonLostNRNrrPoints
    1Punjab Kings9621+0.85513
    2Royal Challengers Bengaluru9630+1.42012
    3Sunrisers Hyderabad10640+0.64412
    4Rajasthan Royals10640+0.51012
    5Gujarat Titans10640-0.19212
    6Chennai Super Kings9450+0.0058
    7Delhi Capitals9450-0.8958
    8Kolkata Knight Riders9351-0.5397
    9Mumbai Indians10370-0.6496
    10Lucknow Super Giants9270-1.0764

    NOTE: Points table will be updated after the match.

    To keep up to date with all the latest cricket news and share your opinion on the biggest topics visit our FacebookInstagram and X (Twitter) pages.

    ‘Rohit Sharma and MI will hurt playoff hopes of many teams’: Gavaskar warns IPL 2026 rivals

    NEW DELHI: Former India captain Sunil Gavaskar believes a resurgent Rohit Sharma could dramatically alter the playoff race in IPL 2026, warning that Mumbai Indians now have the firepower to derail multiple teams’ qualification hopes.

    Rohit marked his return from injury in emphatic fashion, smashing 84 off 44 balls to lead MI to a stunning six-wicket win over Lucknow Super Giants in a record chase of 229 at the Wankhede Stadium. His 143-run opening stand with Ryan Rickelton set the tone for only Mumbai’s third win of the season, but one that could have far-reaching consequences.

    Gavaskar, who has tracked Rohit’s evolution closely, pointed to a noticeable shift in the batter’s mindset since stepping away from leadership duties. “I have been watching Rohit Sharma closely over the last year. Ever since he was removed as captain in white-ball cricket and the IPL, he has focused more on his batting,” Gavaskar said on JioStar.

    Highlighting Rohit’s consistency, he added, “In the IPL, he usually scores 400 to 500 runs a season, but his knocks are often impactful. He may not have many 80-plus innings, but his 40 to 50-run starts give his team early momentum.”

    However, Gavaskar emphasised that Rohit is now aiming for something bigger. “The change in his game is clear: he now wants to bat deeper and leave a bigger impact,” he said, pointing to the authority and range on display during the knock against LSG. “We saw all the typical Rohit Sharma shots — the pull, the drives, the loft over long-off. Against left-arm spinner M Siddharth, he played down the ground, hitting against the turn. We saw a focused Rohit.”

    The veteran’s biggest takeaway, though, was the larger impact Rohit could have on the tournament. “If he continues this form, Mumbai Indians will hurt the playoff hopes of many teams in the remaining matches,” he warned.

    With MI still outside the top four but building momentum, their late surge could prove decisive in a tightly packed table.
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    Jasprit Bumrah under the scanner



    While Rohit’s form has lifted MI, Gavaskar expressed concern over Jasprit Bumrah’s struggles this season. “Bumrah is giving his best, but he seems to be trying too many extra things,” he said, pointing to no-balls and a dip in rhythm.

    “He is overdoing things, and that’s hurting him. He should go back to basics,” Gavaskar added, while backing the premier pacer to bounce back quickly. “It will take just one or two games — once he starts picking wickets, he’ll be back on track.”

    DC vs CSK Live win probability, prediction, odds & chances of victory in IPL 2026 clash

    Delhi Capitals take on Chennai Super Kings at the Arun Jaitley Stadium in Delhi on Tuesday.

    With only four victories in nine outings this season, Axar Patel's side find themselves rooted to seventh place on the points table.

    Five defeats in nine games is not an ideal position for any team eyeing the playoffs, and at this stage of the tournament, every single result carries enormous weight.

    Delhi are running out of room to manoeuvre, and a slip-up against a resurgent Chennai could make things significantly harder.

    Meanwhile, CSK have managed to get three wins from their last five matches, including a dominant victory against their bitter rivals Mumbai Indians.

    However, history has rarely been kind to Delhi in this fixture. Across 32 meetings between these two sides, Chennai have come out on top 20 times compared to Delhi's 12. 

    Add The Sporting News as a preferred news source

    Live Scorecard

    DC vs CSK IPL 2026: Win probability and toss result

    After 6.3 overs, CSK are 45/2

    CSK have lost Gaikwad and Urvil Patel cheaply. DC have their noses ahead after the powerplay. 

    After 20 overs, DC are 155/7

    Rizvi remained not out on 40, while a late cameo from Ashutosh Sharma (14 off 5) help DC get past the 150-mark. The bowlers have something to bowl at, thanks to Rizvi. 

    After 15 overs, DC are 97/5

    Stubbs and Rizvi are playing sensibly and have steadied the innings. If the pair stays until the end, then DC should look at 150. 

    After 11 overs, DC are 69/5

    CSK are all over DC right now. Rana, Nair, and Patel have all been dismissed, and they are in a rut. Tristan Stubbs and Sameer Rizvi are the two batters at the crease. 

    After 6 overs, DC are 37/2

    CSK have had a fantastic start to the match as they have sent back both DC openers, Nissanka and Rahul, cheaply. Rana and Karun are at the crease. 

    Toss: Toss to take place at 7 p.m. IST.

    DC vs CSK IPL 2026: Playing XI

    DC playing XI: KL Rahul(w), Pathum Nissanka, Karun Nair, Tristan Stubbs, Nitish Rana, Axar Patel(c), Ashutosh Sharma, Mitchell Starc, Kuldeep Yadav, Lungi Ngidi, T Natarajan

    Impact subs: Vipraj Nigam, Sameer Rizvi, Abishek Porel, Auqib Nabi Dar, David Miller

    CSK playing XI: Sanju Samson(w), Ruturaj Gaikwad(c), Urvil Patel, Kartik Sharma, Dewald Brevis, Jamie Overton, Akeal Hosein, Noor Ahmad, Anshul Kamboj, Mukesh Choudhary, Gurjapneet Singh

    Impact Subs: Shivam Dube, Prashant Veer, Matthew Short, Akash Madhwal, Sarfaraz Khan

    MORE: Visit Cricket News for all the latest cricket coverage and opinion

    DC vs CSK IPL 2026: Win percentage

    TeamWin probability
    DC65%
    CSK35%

    DC vs CSK: Betting odds

    According to Dafa:

    TeamOdds
    DC1.78
    CSK2.06

    Sanju Samson score in today's IPL 2026 match: How many runs did CSK star score against DC at Arun Jaitley Stadium, New Delhi

    Sanju Samson was back in action for Chennai Super Kings in IPL 2026 as they took on Delhi Capitals at the Arun Jaitley Stadium on Tuesday evening.

    Since scoring the maiden century of the IPL 2026 season against DC, Samson has consistently performed for CSK and has been their highest run scorer. 

    The opening batsman has already scored two centuries this season, including a 101 in 54 balls against CSK's arch-rivals Mumbai Indians at the Wankhede Stadium. But in the next match against MI, he departed for just 11 runs in nine balls. 

    Add The Sporting News as a preferred news source

    How many runs did Sanju Samson score in today's DC vs CSK IPL 2026 match?

    Samson is expected to open the innings against DC on Tuesday.

    What is Sanju Samson's record in IPL?

    MatNoRunsHSAvgSR100504s6s
    18622501911931.57140.55526414234

    IPL Match Today, DC vs CSK: Predicted playing XI, head-to-head, pitch report, Delhi weather update

    NEW DELHI: The IPL 2026 clash between Delhi Capitals and Chennai Super Kings at the Arun Jaitley Stadium on Tuesday shapes up as a must-win encounter, with both sides caught in a tight mid-table battle and desperate to stay in the playoff hunt.

    After a demoralising run of three straight losses, DC reignited their campaign with a remarkable chase of 226 against Rajasthan Royals. CSK, meanwhile, come in full of confidence following a clinical dismantling of Mumbai Indians at Chepauk - a display defined by calm execution and efficiency.


    History heavily favours CSK, who lead the head-to-head 20-12 and have won six of their eight matches in New Delhi. Tuesday’s contest is also a high-stakes rematch of their earlier meeting at Chepauk, where Sanju Samson’s century guided CSK to a 23-run victory. DC, with just one win in four home games this season, cannot afford another slip on familiar turf.

    DC vs CSK: Head-to-head

    Matches played: 32
    DC won: 12
    CSK won: 20
    No result: 0

    Chennai Super Kings hold a clear upper hand over Delhi Capitals in their head-to-head record in the IPL. Out of 32 matches played between the two sides, CSK have emerged victorious 20 times, while Delhi Capitals have managed 12 wins. There have been no no-results in their encounters.

    DC vs CSK: Weather conditions

    Weather in Delhi on May 5 looks ideal for the IPL clash at Arun Jaitley Stadium. A sunny day will see temperatures peak near 33°C before easing to around 23°C in the evening. Clear skies and just a 10% rain chance reduce any threat of interruption. With humidity near 46% and a light northeast breeze, conditions should remain comfortable for an uninterrupted night game.

    DC vs CSK: Pitch report

    The pitch at the Arun Jaitley Stadium is expected to be a paradise for batters. Conditions are likely to heavily favour stroke play, setting the stage for a high-scoring encounter when Delhi Capitals take on Chennai Super Kings on Tuesday. With short boundaries aiding big hits, batters are expected to enjoy their time in the middle and dominate proceedings.

    DC vs CSK: Live streaming details

    When: Tuesday, May 5, 7:30PM IST

    Where: Arun Jaitley Stadium, New Delhi

    Where to watch: Star Sports Network for live TV broadcast and JioHotstar for live streaming

    DC vs CSK: Predicted XIs

    Chennai Super Kings (Playing XI): Sanju Samson(w), Ruturaj Gaikwad(c), Urvil Patel, Dewald Brevis, Shivam Dube, Jamie Overton, Ramakrishna Ghosh, Prashant Veer, Noor Ahmad, Anshul Kamboj, Mukesh Choudhary

    Impact Sub: Kartik Sharma

    Delhi Capitals (Playing XI): KL Rahul(w), Pathum Nissanka, Nitish Rana, Sameer Rizvi, Tristan Stubbs, Axar Patel(c), Ashutosh Sharma, Kyle Jamieson, Mitchell Starc, Kuldeep Yadav, T Natarajan

    Impact sub: David Miller

    DC vs CSK: Full squads

    Delhi Capitals: Axar Patel (captain), KL Rahul, Kuldeep Yadav, Karun Nair, David Miller, Pathum Nissanka, Tristan Stubbs, Sameer Rizvi, Nitish Rana, T. Natarajan, Mukesh Kumar, Ashutosh Sharma, Dushmantha Chameera, Lungi Ngidi, Vipraj Nigam, Sahil Parakh, Prithvi Shaw, Abishek Porel, Ajay Mandal, Tripurana Vijay, Madhav Tiwari, Auqib Nabi Dar, Mitchell Starc, Kyle Jamieson and Rehan Ahmed

    Chennai Super Kings: Ruturaj Gaikwad (c), MS Dhoni (wk), Sanju Samson (wk), Kartik Sharma (wk), Dewald Brevis, Sarfaraz Khan, Shivam Dube, Anshul Kamboj, Jamie Overton, Gurjapneet Singh, Akeal Hosein, Mukesh Choudhary, Noor Ahmad Urvil Patel (wk), Aman Khan, Zak Foulkes, Matthew Short, Prashant Veer, Rahul Chahar, Shreyas Gopal, Matt Henry, and Spencer Johnson

    ‘95 off 30 balls!’: Langer cites practice blitz to back ‘selfless’ Pant despite LSG defeat

    NEW DELHI: Lucknow Super Giants head coach Justin Langer has thrown his full support behind captain Rishabh Pant despite another disappointing outing in the IPL 2026, insisting the wicketkeeper-batter is “not far off” rediscovering his best.

    LSG slumped to yet another defeat, against Mumbai Indians on Monday, leaving them rooted to the bottom of the table with just two wins in nine matches. Much of the scrutiny has centred on Pant’s form and his decision to shuffle the batting order, but Langer offered a strong defence of both.


    Revealing a glimpse of Pant’s recent form behind the scenes, Langer highlighted a stunning practice performance that convinced the team management of his readiness.

    “We played a practice game here two days ago, and Rishi… maybe 95 off 40 or 30 balls — you’re just looking at it and you go, ‘Oh my gosh, that’s Rishabh Pant at his very best,’” Langer said.

    “So, he’s a very good player; we know that. We’ve seen him in Test cricket destroy teams at number five, and we felt today… it might be a good option for the team.”

    ‘Selfless’ move for the team

    Pant’s decision to push himself down the order, allowing Nicholas Pooran to bat higher, raised eyebrows — but Langer described it as a selfless call taken purely in the team’s interest.

    “He selflessly moved down the order to let Nicky P bat, whose batting was unbelievable,” Langer explained, referring to Pooran’s explosive 63 off 21 balls.

    Backing his captain’s leadership, Langer added, “As a captain in the IPL… you’ve got to keep fronting up. That’s all you can do, and he’ll keep fronting up and hopefully help us get some wins.”

    The coach also dismissed suggestions that Pant’s record price tag is affecting his performances.

    “Honestly, I don’t think the money has anything to do with it… leadership is a tough position, you’re carrying lots of pressure, and he knows that,” he said. “He’s working hard… and he’s not far off.”

    Pant admits LSG fell short

    Pant himself acknowledged that LSG left runs on the table after a strong start.

    “Definitely, the way we started, I think we should have gotten more runs… we were short 10-15 runs because it was a 220-230 wicket,” he said.

    While refusing to blame the bowlers, Pant admitted the team needs a bit of fortune to turn things around. “I think we need some good luck… and it’s going to take some more effort from us, for sure.”

    With their playoff hopes hanging by a thread, LSG will now hope Pant’s practice brilliance soon translates into match-winning performances.


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    IPL 2026 | Will MS Dhoni play vs DC? CSK bowling coach's blunt 'above my pay grade' reply goes viral

    NEW DELHI: When will MS Dhoni play? Will he feature today? What is the status of his injury? These questions continue to dominate social media, with CSK fans eager to see their superstar in action. Dhoni is yet to play a game this season due to a calf injury, and the topic once again surfaced when Chennai Super Kings bowling coach Eric Simons addressed the media ahead of the IPL 2026 clash between Delhi Capitals and Chennai Super Kings.

    Simons said Dhoni has not travelled for the away fixture against Delhi Capitals, though he is steadily improving.


    More than half the season is done, with CSK set to play their 10th match in what has been an underwhelming campaign. As has been the case every season since his international retirement, there is intense speculation around the future of the 44-year-old Indian great in the IPL.

    In the pre-match interaction, it was hardly surprising that the first question was on Dhoni, who has been batting in the nets recently.

    "Update on MS Dhoni is way above my pay grade. He's not with us (in Delhi), but steadily improving. He'll be ready when he's ready, and he knows when he's ready to play," that was all Simons had to say on the team icon.

    Speaking about the bowling unit, Simons was full of praise for Anshul Kamboj, who has impressed across all phases and is the joint highest wicket-taker with 17 scalps.

    "Anshul went away. Anshul you see today is not this season, he started last year. The things that we worked on, he went into the domestic season and worked on different angles of approach to the crease to be more accurate with his yorkers in particular. We've introduced round the wicket, which is no secret now.

    "There's a lot of nuances to what we're doing around the wicket that make him particularly effective. He's picked up wickets and been able to restrict the run rate as well. But I think what it really boils down to is his professionalism, the way that he trains," Simons said.

    "If you stood next to me and watched the way that he trains, the way that he understands what he's going to do, the simplicity I spoke about, the clarity, I think in the modern game a bowler needs to be clear about what he wants to do. He's very clear about his tactics, and he's very clear about what his field setting is. There's no grey area for him," added Simons.

    With four wins from nine matches, CSK find themselves in a must-win situation for the remaining five league games. They arrive in Delhi after a comprehensive win over Mumbai Indians. Simons remains confident that his side can still make the playoffs from here.


    130816061

    "There has become a bit of a gap between the top four and the rest, but we still have our destiny in our own hands and we do know that we can beat any team in the league. So if we keep playing to our potential, there's no reason why we can't be on the top of the table. When we play well, we look really unbeatable," he said.

    IPL 2026: Time for Sanju Samson to silence doubters

    NEW DELHI: The last time Sanju Samson was here at the Arun Jaitley Stadium, his international career was almost on the brink. Pencilled into the Indian XI only because Abhishek Sharma fell ill before the T20 World Cup match against Namibia in Feb, a deflated Samson walked off after scoring 22 off eight balls.

    On Tuesday, he will be back here as the toast of the nation. Samson’s counterfeit Chennai Super Kings jerseys will make for the majority of the inventory with the street vendors.


    Samson has been at the crossroads for much of his career. But seldom has his stock been so high. His turnaround at the back end of the T20 World Cup was an answer to years of doubts over his consistency.

    Now that he has cemented himself as the biggest superstar in the CSK XI, it’s time he consolidated his IPL form to run for a spot in India’s 2027 ODI World Cup team.

    Both DC and CSK are in the logjam in the middle of the table. The losing team on Tuesday will be on the brink of elimination from the league.

    Despite scoring two centuries, Samson has 315 runs to his name in nine matches.
    130817599

    As much as he has been the facesaving force for CSK, his allor-nothing form will frustrate the franchise. But then, that has been the norm with Samson’s IPL seasons.


    If he has to compel the national selectors to consider him for the second wicketkeeper’s role, he may have to replicate the T20 World Cup performances for CSK.

    It won’t be easy though.

    The Capital has become cooler with rain in the air. The last match at the venue saw Royal Challengers Bengaluru seamers Josh Hazlewood and Bhuvneshwar Kumar blow away DC for 75. And at the top of the mark will be the lethal Mitchell Starc looking to expose Samson’s technique against top quality pace, movement and bounce.

    It’s up to Samson to dispel doubts. Tuesday will be a test of his technique and temperament to play the lead batter.

    Yesterday IPL Match Result: Rohit Sharma's fluent 84 helps Mumbai Indians beat LSG

    MUMBAI : It took the ‘Hitman’ to keep Mumbai Indians’ slender hopes alive of making it to the playoffs. Returning from a hamstring injury that sidelined him for five matches, Rohit Sharma led the charge with a vintage 84 off 44 balls as MI beat Lucknow Super Giants by six wickets in a run-fest at the Wankhede on Monday.

    Amid chants of “Rohit, Rohit”, the 39-year-old, playing as an Impact Player, rolled back the years, smashing six sixes and seven fours in a commanding knock. Alongside the in-form Ryan Rickelton (83 off 32; 6x4, 8x6), Rohit powered MI to a daunting 229 chase, handing the hosts just their third win of IPL 2026.


    The ‘R & R’ duo all but sealed the game with a blistering 143-run opening stand off just 65 balls. Naman Dhir (23* off 12) and Will Jacks (10* off 4) then finished the job with ease, the latter sealing it with a straight six off Avesh Khan.

    MI were dealt a blow before the start, with skipper Hardik Pandya ruled out due to back spasms, leaving Suryakumar Yadav to lead the franchise. The result kept MI’s slim hopes alive while LSG slumped to a sixth straight defeat, effectively ending their playoff chances.

    Rickelton, fresh from a 123* in MI’s previous home game, continued his purple patch on a flat surface, racing to a 22-ball fifty. Rohit matched him stroke for stroke, taking down Mohsin Khan with two fours and two sixes in one over, and then lofting Mohammed Shami. His fifty came off 26 balls, bringing up MI’s 100 in 8.1 overs.

    MI cruised to 71/0 in the Powerplay and took 23 off Manimaran Siddharth in the ninth over. Rohit eventually fell to Siddharth, mistiming a sweep to short fine leg, but by then the equation was down to 52 off 37, a formality on a Wankhede deck that offered nothing to the bowlers.

    Earlier, Nicholas Pooran finally broke his slump emphatically, hammering 63 off 21 balls (8x6) after managing just 82 runs in his first eight games. His 16-ball fifty set the tone as LSG surged to 90/1 in six overs, their best Powerplay this season.

    Mitchell Marsh (44 off 25) also found rhythm, and his 94run stand with Pooran off 35 balls left MI on the ropes. However, the hosts pulled things back with four wickets for 37 runs in 20 balls, including the dismissal of a struggling Rishabh Pant (15) off Jacks.

    A late 68-run unbeaten stand between Himmat Singh (40* off 31) and Aiden Markram (31* off 25) lifted LSG to 228/5 after being put in. It was their first 200-plus total this season, powered by 16 sixes — half of them from Pooran.

    MI’s Jasprit Bumrah, though, endured another forgettable outing. He struggled for rhythm and finished with unflattering figures of 0/45, including three no-balls and two wides. His second over cost 21 runs. Among the few positives, spinner Raghu Sharma returned figures of 1/36 in four tidy overs, while Deepak Chahar did well to concede just six runs in the final over to prevent further damage.

    Mumbai Indians IPL 2026 playoff qualification scenarios: Can MI still make it to the top-4?

    It took a throwback night from Rohit Sharma and a blazing Ryan Rickelton to keep Mumbai Indians alive. Chasing 229 against Lucknow Super Giants at the Wankhede, MI rode on Rohit’s 84 (44) and Rickelton’s 83 (32) in a stunning six-wicket win - only their third of the season. The 143-run opening stand flipped the script, but the bigger picture hasn’t changed much. With just six points from 10 games, MI remain deep in trouble, and even this emphatic chase only marginally revives their fading playoff hopes.


    Mumbai Indians’ current points table standings


    • Matches: 10
    • Wins: 3
    • Losses: 7
    • Points: 6
    • Net Run Rate: -0.649
    • Position: 9th

    Mumbai Indians are already in deep trouble.


    IPL 2026 playoff qualification benchmark


    • 14 points (7 wins): Minimum realistic cutoff
    • 16 points (8 wins): Safe zone

    Only exception: 2019 - Sunrisers Hyderabad qualified with 12 points, the only instance of a team qualifying with more losses than wins.


    In most seasons, 7 wins keeps you alive, 8 wins puts you in control.


    What Mumbai Indians need from here


    • Matches remaining: 4
    • Current points: 6
    • To reach 14 points: need 4 wins from 4 matches
    • To reach 16 points: no longer possible

    Simply put: Mumbai Indians need 4 wins from 4 games One more loss and they are almost out.


    MI’s inconsistent season


    MI’s season has been defined by inconsistency, and a spate of injuries as well. Their last five results read: W, L, L, L, W. Even in victory, structural issues persist. Against LSG, they conceded 228 on a flat track, with bowlers leaking 16 sixes. Prior to this, defeats were often marked by either bowling collapses or inability to close games under pressure.


    The big problem: A broken bowling unit and misfiring SKY and Varma


    Mumbai’s biggest concern is not their position on the table, but it’s their bowling. They have conceded 1916 runs in 182.3 overs, one of the worst defensive records this season. Even their spearhead Jasprit Bumrah has struggled for rhythm, going for 0/45 in the last game and leaking extras, a rare dip from one of the best in the business. Opponents have repeatedly dominated MI in the Powerplay and death overs. LSG raced to 90/1 in six overs and still posted 228 despite a mid-innings slowdown. Apart from Allah Ghazanfar, who is placed 7th in the most wickets this season tally (IPL 2026 Purple Cap), there is not a single MI bowler even in the top 40 wicket-takers list this season.


    Another major concern is the form of their middle-order duo of Suryakumar Yadav and Tilka Varma. SKY in the 10 matches he has played has managed 195 runs at an average of mere 19.50, while Varma is slightly better with 204 runs in 10 matches, but nearly half of the runs came in a single match (101* vs GT). In all other games, he has managed 5 single-digit scores and scores of 37, 20, 14 and 11. Apart from a Ryan Rickelton, who is played 6th in the most runs this season tally (IPL 2026 Orange Cap), no a single MI player features in the top 20 list of most runs scored this season.
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    Upcoming IPL 2026 fixtures for Mumbai Indians


    • May 10 vs Royal Challengers Bengaluru (Raipur) - must-win against a top-two side
    • May 14 vs Punjab Kings (Dharamsala) - tough away test vs table leaders
    • May 20 vs Kolkata Knight Riders (Kolkata) - direct rival clash, high pressure
    • May 24 vs Rajasthan Royals (Mumbai) - final league game, likely knockout scenario

    Every match from here is effectively an elimination game. Net Run Rate could come into play, but only if they win all four. Mumbai Indians are not out, but they are hanging by a thread. Four wins in four games is the bare minimum, and even that may not guarantee qualification given their poor NRR. With a misfiring bowling unit and inconsistent form, MI need a near-perfect run to stay alive. The fightback has begun, but time is running out fast.

    Where to watch DC vs CSK IPL 2026 match: TV channel, live stream details and start time in India

    In a mid-table IPL clash, Delhi Capitals take on Chennai Super Kings in Delhi on Tuesday.

    DC have been struggling to build consistency this term but defeated Rajasthan Royals by seven runs, chasing a target of  highlighting their unpredictable form.

    Coming off an eight-wicket win over Mumbai Indians, it's been a similar story for CSK; however, with their fours wins coming in the last six games.

    In this article, The Sporting News takes you through all the details related to how and where to watch the IPL 2026 match between Delhi Capitals and Chennai Super Kings.

    Add The Sporting News as a preferred news source

    Where to watch DC vs CSK: Live stream, TV channel

    Here's how to watch the Delhi Capitals vs. Chennai Super Kings IPL 2026 game in India:

    • TV channel: Star Sports Network channels
    • Live stream: JioHotstar app and website

    IPL 2026 matches are available for live TV broadcast across Star Sports Network channels in India. Fans can also watch the live stream on the JioHotstar app and website.

    MORE: Visit Cricket News for all the latest cricket coverage and opinion

    What time does DC vs CSK match kick off?

    The IPL 2026 match between Delhi Capitals and Chennai Super Kings will be played at Arun Jaitley Stadium in New Delhi, Delhi.

    The match will start at 7:30 p.m. IST on Tuesday, May 5, 2026.

    MORE: Which teams are out of IPL 2026 playoffs contention?

    DC vs CSK lineups, team news

    DC are boosted with Lungi Ngidi's availability after coming back from an injury and providing depth to their fast bowling lineup.

    Mitchell Starc will continue after making an impact on his comeback. However, there will be a few decisions to make about the middle order players such as Sameer Rizvi and David Miller.

    Delhi Capitals predicted XI: Pathum Nissanka, KL Rahul (wk), Nitish Rana, Tristan Stubbs, Ashutosh Sharma, Sameer Rizvi / David Miller, Axar Patel (c), Mitchell Starc, Kuldeep Yadav, T Natarajan, Lungi Ngidi.

    CSK are still without MS Dhoni, who is absent because of an injury sustained in the calf muscle and has not travelled with the team.

    There are unlikely to be any changes after the win against MI.

    Chennai Super Kings predicted XI: Sanju Samson (wk), Ruturaj Gaikwad (c), Urvil Patel, Kartik Sharma, Dewald Brevis, Shivam Dube, Jamie Overton, Prashant Veer, Noor Ahmad, Anshul Kamboj, Mukesh Choudhary.

    DC vs CSK: Betting odds

    Delhi Capitals are the favourites to win this IPL 2026 match at 1.78 on Dafa, while the odds for Chennai Super Kings to win are 2.06.

    * Odds are correct at time of publish but subject to change.

    Related links:

    IPL 2026: ‘We knew 220-230 was chaseable’ — stand-in skipper Suryakumar Yadav praises MI's approach after win over LSG

    Stand-in captain Suryakumar Yadav credited Mumbai Indians’s belief and character after their six-wicket win over Lucknow Super Giants in a high-scoring IPL 2026 clash at the Wankhede Stadium on Monday.

    Suryakumar led the side in the absence of regular captain Hardik Pandya, who missed the match due to illness, and watched MI successfully chase down 229 in just 18.4 overs.

    Despite LSG’s explosive start, powered by Nicholas Pooran and Mitchell Marsh, Suryakumar said his side never panicked.

    “To be very frank, we’ve been in this situation a lot of times this season. It was nothing new, to be very honest,” Suryakumar said after the match.

    “But then I knew, T20 cricket after the powerplay from 7 to 10, that’s the best time when you can pull the game off. We knew two wickets here and there, and we can take control of the game.”

    LSG were cruising at one stage before Mumbai’s bowlers fought back strongly in the middle overs.

    “I think about 8-9 overs, they were 110 or 120 for 1 or 2. I don’t really remember. But then from there, pulling it to 162 for 5 in 16 overs, I think the performance was unbelievable,” he said.

    “The way all the bowlers responded, I think they showed a lot of character.”

    Suryakumar also praised the opening pair of Rohit Sharma and Ryan Rickelton, whose 143-run partnership set up the chase.

    “Ryan Rickelton, he has been batting beautifully. And our very own Rohit Sharma coming back into the side, fit, ready, raring to go… the way he showed the entertainment to the crowd, I think it was unbelievable,” he said.

    On the opening stand, Suryakumar added: “It’s always important to have a good start when you’re chasing 220-225. The way they batted together, it looked like they were always in control.”

    MI win battle of bursts vs base: Rohit Sharma-Ryan Rickelton script Mumbai's highest IPL chase

    NEW DELHI: Rohit Sharma scored 84 on his return from injury and Ryan Rickelton made 83 as Mumbai Indians beat Lucknow Super Giants by six wickets in Mumbai in their IPL 2026 match on Monday.

    The two openers added 143 runs for the first wicket, their third century stand in the IPL, and set up the chase. Mumbai Indians chased down 229 after LSG had scored 228 for five, finishing at 229 for four in 18.4 overs.

    Earlier, Nicholas Pooran scored 63 off 21 balls to lift LSG after a slowdown in the middle overs. He took advantage of loose bowling from MI.

    Rohit had missed five matches due to a hamstring injury he picked up against Royal Challengers Bengaluru on April 12. He hit seven sixes and six fours in his 44-ball innings, while Rickelton continued his run of form.

    Rickelton was dismissed in the 11th over by Mohsin Khan after hitting two sixes. Rohit looked set for a hundred but was caught at short fine leg in the 14th over off Manimaran Siddharth, who finished with 2 for 47.

    Tilak Varma scored 11, while stand-in captain Suryakumar Yadav made 12 before getting out near the boundary again. Naman Dhir remained not out on 23 and Will Jacks was unbeaten on 10 as MI completed the chase.

    Mumbai Indians scored around 50 runs in the first five overs before Rohit attacked in the sixth over, hitting 21 runs off Avesh Khan with a mix of fours and sixes.

    Highest targets chased down in IPL
    • 265 - PBKS vs DC, Delhi, 2026
    • 262 - PBKS vs KKR, Kolkata, 2024
    • 246 - SRH vs PBKS, Hyderabad, 2025
    • 244 - SRH vs MI, Wankhede, 2026
    • 229 - SRH vs RR, Jaipur, 2026
    • 229 - MI vs LSG, Wankhede, 2026*

    The previous highest target chased by MI was 221 runs against KKR at the same venue earlier this season.


    Rickelton also scored freely, starting with a six off Mohsin and playing shots against both pace and spin.

    For LSG, Pooran’s 63 off 20 balls helped them post 228 for five. He hit eight sixes and a four. Mitchell Marsh scored 44 off 25 balls.

    Jasprit Bumrah went wicketless, conceding 45 runs and overstepping three times. Corbin Bosch took 2 for 20 and slowed LSG in the middle overs when they looked set for more than 240.

    Bumrah conceded 21 runs in the fourth over, where Marsh hit him for boundaries. In the powerplay, Pooran attacked Will Jacks with three sixes and later hit two sixes and a four off AM Ghazanfar in the sixth over. LSG reached 90 for one in six overs, which is the joint second-highest powerplay score by a visiting team against MI at this ground.

    Pooran, who had not scored a fifty in his last 17 innings, reached his half-century in 16 balls with a six off Deepak Chahar. He and Marsh added 94 runs for the second wicket in 35 balls. At 123 for one after eight overs, LSG were in control.

    Bosch then removed both Pooran and Marsh in the same over. LSG slipped from 123 for one to 160 for four in 12 overs. It could have been 160 for five, but Bumrah overstepped when Himmat Singh was caught behind. Himmat stayed not out on 40 and added 68 runs with Aiden Markram, who made 31 not out.

    IPL 2026: ‘You can’t blame bowlers all the time’ - Rishabh Pant after LSG’s defeat to MI

    NEW DELHI: Lucknow Super Giants captain Rishabh Pant admitted his side fell short despite posting a huge total against Mumbai Indians at the Wankhede Stadium on Monday, saying his struggling team now needs “some good luck” to turn things around in IPL 2026.

    LSG posted an imposing 228/5 after explosive knocks from Nicholas Pooran, Mitchell Marsh, Aiden Markram and Himmat Singh. However, Mumbai chased down the target comfortably with six wickets in hand, thanks to a stunning 143-run opening partnership between Rohit Sharma and Ryan Rickelton.

    Reflecting on the defeat, Pant felt his team left runs behind despite a flying start. “Definitely, the way we started, I think we should have gotten more runs. But definitely some good signs,” Pant said after the match.

    The LSG skipper believed his side was at least 10-15 runs short on what was an excellent batting surface.

    “Definitely, we were short 10-15 runs because it was a 220-230 wicket for sure. And the way we started, we had that edge over them,” he said.

    Pant, however, refused to blame the bowlers despite another disappointing result in a difficult season for Lucknow.

    “In a wicket like this, you can’t blame bowlers all the time. They’ve been doing a fantastic job for us. So definitely can’t say much to them,” he added.

    When asked what LSG need to revive their campaign, Pant gave a candid response.

    “I think we need some good luck, man. That’s the only thing I’m going to say.” He added with a smile: “Yeah, I think a lot of blessing is going to work around it. And it’s going to take some more effort from us, for sure.”

    The loss leaves LSG at the bottom of the IPL 2026 table with just two wins from nine matches, while Mumbai remain mathematically alive in the playoff race.

    MI's musical chairs: Mumbai Indians field 24th player in IPL 2026 vs LSG as season slips away

    Mumbai Indians brought in Raj Angad Bawa for their IPL 2026 match against Lucknow Super Giants at the Wankhede Stadium on Monday. He became the 24th player to represent the team this season, the highest number used by any side this year.

    MI have won only two of their nine matches so far. A defeat against LSG would end their campaign.

    Bawa replaced captain Hardik Pandya, who missed the match due to a back spasm.


    This is not the first time MI have used 24 players in a season. They had done the same in IPL 2008 and again in 2012. The team finished fifth in 2008 and third in 2012.

    Hardik has also had a difficult season. He has scored 146 runs in eight innings at an average of 20.85 and a strike rate of 136.44.

    With Hardik unavailable, Mumbai Indians won the toss and chose to bowl first. They also brought in Corbin Bosch in place of Trent Boult. Rohit Sharma returned after an injury break and was included in the Impact Player list.

    Lucknow Super Giants made changes as well. Josh Inglis made his debut, while Mukul Choudhary was replaced by Akshat Raghuwanshi.

    Teams:

    Mumbai Indians (Playing XI):
    Ryan Rickelton(w), Naman Dhir, Suryakumar Yadav(c), Tilak Varma, Will Jacks, Raj Bawa, Corbin Bosch, Deepak Chahar, Jasprit Bumrah, AM Ghazanfar, Raghu Sharma

    Impact Player options for MI - Rohit Sharma, Mayank Rawat, Robin Minz, Shardul Thakur, and Trent Boult.

    Lucknow Super Giants (Playing XI): Mitchell Marsh, Aiden Markram, Rishabh Pant(w/c), Josh Inglis, Nicholas Pooran, Akshat Raghuwanshi, Himmat Singh, Mohammed Shami, Mohsin Khan, Avesh Khan, Prince Yadav

    Impact Player options for LSG - Manimaran Siddharth, Digvesh Singh, Mayank Yadav, Shahbaz Ahamad, and Abdul Samad.

    IPL 2026: Nicholas Pooran surpasses Vaibhav Sooryavanshi in explosive batting record during MI vs LSG

    NEW DELHI: Lucknow Super Giants batter Nicholas Pooran continues to redefine power-hitting in the IPL, and this time he has moved past Vaibhav Sooryavanshi in one of the league’s most explosive batting records.

    With his breathtaking 16-ball fifty against Mumbai Indians at the Wankhede Stadium on Monday, Pooran now has five IPL half-centuries scored in fewer than 20 balls — the second-most in tournament history. Only Abhishek Sharma, with six, stands ahead of him on the elite list.


    Most 50s in less than 20 balls in IPL:



    • 6 — Abhishek Sharma
    • 5 — Nicholas Pooran
    • 4 — Vaibhav Sooryavanshi

    Pooran’s latest blitz was more than just another quickfire innings. It felt like a statement. Batting at No. 3 for the first time this season for Lucknow Super Giants, the left-hander looked completely unleashed from the moment he walked in.


    Fastest fifties for LSG (by balls)



    • 15 - Nicholas Pooran vs RCB, Bengaluru, 2023
    • 16 - Nicholas Pooran vs MI, Wankhede, 2026
    • 18 - Nicholas Pooran vs SRH, Hyderabad, 2025
    • 19 - Nicholas Pooran vs MI,Wankhede, 2024
    • 20 - Kyle Mayers vs PBKS, Mohali, 2023
    • 20 - Nicholas Pooran vs DC, Delhi, 2024


    He raced to 63 off just 21 deliveries, smashing one four and eight sixes at a staggering strike rate of 300.

    The landmark moment came in the 8th over when he pulled a short ball from Deepak Chahar over fine leg for six to bring up his fifty in only 16 balls. The shot itself summed up the innings — fearless, inventive, and brutally clean.

    The celebration also hinted at the significance of the knock. Pooran blew a kiss before raising his bat to acknowledge the crowd, almost as if sending a message to the team management that this role suits him perfectly.

    On a night where even bowlers like Jasprit Bumrah struggled for control, Pooran turned the Wankhede into his personal launchpad.

    If this innings is any indication, Pooran at No. 3 could become one of the most dangerous tactical shifts of IPL 2026.

    Bowling from wheelchair mom fuels cricketer’s success

    LUCKNOW: At a time when teenage prodigies are grabbing headlines with their cricketing skills, a quieter story is taking shape in the narrow lanes of Saharanpur, far from the glare of stadium lights.

    The journey of Arnav, who played a key role in helping in the cricket world is not only built on privilege or resilience, but also on an extraordinary partnership with his disabled mother, who uses a wheelchair. The odds were stacked against him from the very beginning with his father recovering from paralysis.

    What could have been the end of a dream became the foundation for a remarkable journey. Inside their modest home in Punjabi Bagh, Arnav trains in a narrow corridor turned into a makeshift net.

    At the other end, seated in a wheelchair, his mother Kusum Lata, his first coach, acts as his bowling partner, providing an unwavering support system.

    She bowls to him every day, not out of convenience, but out of commitment.

    “I had a passion for cricket since childhood, but my family’s financial condition was unfavourable. But my obsession with cricket never let me stop,” Arnav told TOI. Arnav’s father, once running a small dairy business, had to shut operations after his illness. His elder brother gave up his own cricketing aspirations to take up a job and support the household — and now funds Arnav’s cricketing expenses.

    With limited resources and no access to structured training initially, Kusum also stepped in.

    “When my child tells me to bowl in a certain way, I watch matches to improve myself. I try to learn variations and maintain a good length so that his practice improves,” she said.She studies bowlers on television and mobile screens, absorbs techniques, and applies them in their home net sessions.

    “When I saw his dedication, I thought I should also do something so that he can move forward,” Kusum said.

    Arnav draws inspiration from icons like Virat Kohli and Rohit Sharma, whose posters adorn his walls.

    “I want to play like Virat Kohli and Rohit Sharma. I like their shots very much,” he said, his eyes set on representing India one day.

    At Nalanda Cricket Academy, coaches Vikrant and Vivek Sharma recognized his potential early. Backed by their guidance and support from Saharanpur Cricket Association chairman Akram Saifi, Arnav steadily climbed through the ranks.

    His breakthrough moment came in Jan, when he played a key role in helping Uttar Pradesh win the Under-14 Raj Singh Dungarpur Trophy.

    He scored 166 runs in 5 matches with the highest score of 48.

    Next, the entire UP Under-14 team was felicitated in Delhi by BCCI vice-president Rajeev Shukla, marking a milestone in Arnav’s journey.He has appeared in the Under-16 trials.

    Hardik Pandya misses out, Rohit Sharma comes back as MI opt to bowl first vs LSG - check full playing XI

    NEW DELHI: Mumbai Indians stand-in captain Suryakumar Yadav on Monday won the toss and opted to field first vs Lucknow Super Giants at Wankhede Stadium in Mumbai.

    In a big blow to already-struggling MI, their full-time captain Hardik Pandya was not available for selection because he was "unwell". However, star batter Rohit Sharma made it into the side and returned after the hamstring injury.


    "We will look to bowl first. Looks good, little humid also tonight, second innings we saw it became better. He (Hardik) is not well tonight, so going into his shoes. Corbin comes in for Boult, Rohit is back. You can run away from the fact MI is not known for this position, put your hands up and play your best game. Can't say it will make us dangerous, we have five games left and try to win them," Suryakumar Yadav said at the toss.

    Meanwhile, LSG skipper Rishabh Pant said, "We would have done the same. It is a good wicket to bat on and you can chase any target. Lot of reflection. It has been a tough season for us, no running away from that. Everyone knows how passionate he (Sanjeev Goenka) is about the game and his team, hopefully we can do it for the owner and our fans. Records help but when you are clearing your mindset everything comes together. Inglis comes in, Mukul goes out and Raghuwanshi comes in, bowling we will decide later."

    Teams

    Mumbai Indians (Playing XI): Ryan Rickelton(w), Naman Dhir, Suryakumar Yadav(c), Tilak Varma, Will Jacks, Raj Bawa, Corbin Bosch, Deepak Chahar, Jasprit Bumrah, AM Ghazanfar, Raghu Sharma

    Impact Player options for MI - Rohit Sharma, Mayank Rawat, Robin Minz, Shardul Thakur, and Trent Boult.

    Lucknow Super Giants (Playing XI): Mitchell Marsh, Aiden Markram, Rishabh Pant(w/c), Josh Inglis, Nicholas Pooran, Akshat Raghuwanshi, Himmat Singh, Mohammed Shami, Mohsin Khan, Avesh Khan, Prince Yadav

    Impact Player options for LSG - Manimaran Siddharth, Digvesh Singh, Mayank Yadav, Shahbaz Ahamad, and Abdul Samad.

    Shubman Gill at it again: GT skipper takes dig at Shreyas Iyer's PBKS with 'bas jeetna hai' post

    Gujarat Titans captain Shubman Gill shared another social media post after his team’s win over Punjab Kings (PBKS) taking a dig at Shreyas Iyer's side.

    Punjab Kings, led by Shreyas Iyer, faced a loss against Gujarat Titans in Ahmedabad on Sunday. PBKS scored 163 for 9, and their bowlers took the match to the final over before Washington Sundar finished the chase with a six.

    After the match, Gill posted a picture on social media with Sai Sudharsan and Washington Sundar, with thigh-five pose.

    "Bas jeetna hai. Aava de," read the caption.

    — ShubmanGill (@ShubmanGill)


    "Bas Jeetna Hai" is the Punjab Kings’ campaign for the IPL.

    Gill has shared similar posts earlier this season. After GT beat Chennai Super Kings in Chennai, he posted a picture holding the yellow whistle linked to CSK’s “Whistle Podu” campaign. The caption read “Nandri Chennai.”




    After the match against Royal Challengers Bengaluru, Gill posted another image with Virat Kohli. The caption said “Play Hold @jaseholder98, Bold perfrormance by team tonight”, which many saw as a reference to RCB’s “Play Bold” slogan.



    In the match against PBKS, Mohammed Siraj took two wickets in the first over, dismissing Priyansh Arya and Cooper Connolly. Kagiso Rabada later removed Prabhsimran Singh in the sixth over.

    PBKS had a 79-run partnership between Suryansh Shedge, who scored 57 off 29 balls, and Marcus Stoinis, who made 40 off 31 balls. PBKS finished on 163 for 9.

    In reply, GT lost early wickets but Sai Sudharsan scored 57 off 41 balls to steady the innings. Washington Sundar remained not out on 40 off 23 balls and hit a six in the final over to take GT to the win.

    With this result, GT moved to sixth place with 12 points. PBKS stayed at the top of the table with 13 points.

    Highest wicket-taker of IPL with just one over? PBKS' limited use of Yuzvendra Chahal questioned

    NEW DELHI: Punjab Kings suffered their second straight defeat in IPL 2026 after losing a close match to Gujarat Titans in Ahmedabad, and one major talking point after the game was how little spinner Yuzvendra Chahal was used. Chasing 165, Gujarat sealed a four-wicket win thanks to a late six from Washington Sundar off Marcus Stoinis.

    Punjab had started the season strongly and even beaten Gujarat earlier, but their form has dipped at a crucial stage of the tournament. While the bowlers kept the contest alive, some tactical decisions during the chase left fans and experts questioning the team’s approach.




    Former India cricketer Mohammad Kaif was surprised that Chahal bowled only one over in the entire innings. The veteran leg-spinner, who is the highest wicket-taker in IPL history with 228 wickets, was introduced only in the 14th over and ended with figures of 1 over for 13 runs.

    “It surprises me to see the highest wicket taker of IPL history Yuzi Chahal bowl just one over against GT. Remember he has 228 ipl wickets in which 139 have come on the flat Chinnaswamy during his 8 years with RCB,” Kaif wrote on his X.

    — MohammadKaif (@MohammadKaif)


    Kaif admitted the Ahmedabad pitch may have suited fast bowlers because of the grass on the surface, but still felt Punjab should have shown more faith in Chahal’s experience and wicket-taking ability.

    “Ok, the pitch had grass, but Chahal is an IPL great he could have found ways to get wickets. Punjab needs to trust him more,” Kaif added.

    Punjab had bought Chahal for INR 18 crore before the season, but he has taken only seven wickets in nine matches so far. With the playoff race heating up, the franchise will hope their star spinner finds form quickly.

    MI vs LSG Live win probability, prediction, odds & chances of victory in IPL 2026 clash

    Mumbai Indians and Lucknow Super Giants lock horns in a bottom-of-the-table clash at the Wankhede Stadium in Mumbai on Monday.

    It's a must-win game for both teams if they want to remain in the hunt for an IPL 2026 playoff spot. 

    In this article, The Sporting News tracks the IPL 2026 match and provides the live win probabilities for each team.

    Add The Sporting News as a preferred news source

    Live scorecard:

    MI vs LSG IPL 2026: Win probability and toss result

    MI 202/3 after 17 overs

    Rohit and Rickleton's opening partnership has made sure MI cruise towards their target. 

    MI 127/0 after 10 overs

    Rickleton and Rohit are unstoppable at the moment as MI cruise towards the target.

    MI 98/0 after 8 overs

    Sharma closes in on his half-century as MI are cruising towards their target.

    LSG 228/5 after 20 overs

    LSG post a massive total on board, however, the target is still chaseable considering the Wankhede pitch. 

    LSG 192/5 after 16 overs

    LSG's momentum slows down as they lose two more wickets. 

    LSG 141/3 after 10 overs

    MI fight back as Pooran and Marsh depart. Pant at the crease right now. 

    LSG 90/1 after 6 overs

    LSG off to a bright start to their innings. 

    Rohit Sharma back in the team but Hardik Pandya. 

    Toss: MI's make-shift skipper Suryakumar Yadav has decided to bowl first.

    MORE: Visit Cricket News for all the latest cricket coverage and opinion

    MI vs LSG: Playing XI

    MI playing XI: Ryan Rickelton (WK), Naman Dhir, Suryakumar Yadav (c), Tilak Varma, Will Jacks, Raj Bawa, Corbin Bosch, Deepak Chahar, Jasprit Bumrah, Allah Ghazanfar, Raghu Sharma.

    Impact subs: Rohit Sharma, Mayank Rawat, Robin Minz, Shardul Thakur, Trent Boult. 

    LSG playing XI: Aiden Markram, Mitchell Marsh, Josh Inglis, Nicholas Pooran, Rishabh Pant (c & wk), Himmat Singh, Akshat Raghuwanshi, Mohsin Khan, Mohammed Shami, Prince Yadav, Avesh Khan.

    Impact subs: Digvesh Rathi, M Siddharth, Mayank Yadav, Shahbaz Ahmad, Abdul Samad. 

    MI vs LSG IPL 2026: Win percentage

    TeamWin probability
    MI85%
    LSG15%

    MI vs LSG IPL 2026 odds

    *All odds via Dafabet.

    TeamOdds
    MI1.02
    LSG8.07

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