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Amid criticism over his exclusion from India’s squad for the upcoming one-off Test against Afghanistan, Jammu and Kashmir fast bowler Auqib Nabi is reportedly set to join the team as a net bowler. The right-arm pacer enjoyed a remarkable 2025-26 domestic season, playing an important role in Jammu and Kashmir’s historic maiden Ranji Trophy triumph as the tournament’s highest wicket-taker. Nabi has claimed 156 wickets in 41 first-class matches at an impressive average of 18.37. During the recently concluded Ranji Trophy campaign, he produced outstanding numbers, taking 60 wickets at an average of 12.57, including seven five-wicket hauls.&nbsp;&nbsp;According to reports, Nabi is one of six bowlers who will assist the Indian team during practice sessions ahead of the Test.&nbsp;“Yes Auqib Nabi has been asked to join the India nets. It is not just Auqib but there are six others, who have also been called to join the India nets. Due to extreme weather conditions, the two premier fast bowlers Mohammed Siraj and Prasidh Krishna can’t go flat out in the nets after a gruelling three games in seven days with travel. The batters would need adequate practice," a BCCI source was quoted as saying by news agency PTI.&nbsp;Despite his exceptional performances, the 29-year-old was overlooked for the 15-member Test squad, instead, the selection panel, led by Ajit Agarkar, handed a first national call-up to Punjab seamer Gurnoor Brar.&nbsp;Also Read - <a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/indonesia-open-2026-pv-sindhu-advances-to-round-of-16-srikanth-malvika-exit-1780388726483">Indonesia Open 2026: PV Sindhu advances to Round of 16, Srikanth, Malvika exit</a>&nbsp;Addressing Nabi’s omission, Agarkar acknowledged that the pacer was seriously considered but explained that team balance and Indian conditions limited the number of fast bowlers selected.&nbsp;“Auqib Nabi, of course, is someone who has had a great season, not just now but last season as well," Agarkar said. “There’s always a chat around that, but you don’t necessarily pick a lot of seamers when you pick a Test team in India. He was close, but at this point we have gone with the three that we have picked. But there was certainly a chat around that. There is no doubt that he has had some incredible performances for Jammu and Kashmir."&nbsp;Also Read - <a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/team-india-s-schedule-after-ipl-2026-complete-list-of-matches-dates-and-venues-1780387433672">Team India's schedule after IPL 2026: Complete list of matches, dates and venues</a>&nbsp;UP leg-spinner Zeeshan Ansari, who represents Sunrisers Hyderabad in the IPL, has also been asked to bowl in the nets as Afghanistan are expected to field several wrist-spinners.&nbsp;India are scheduled to begin preparations this afternoon for the match, which starts on Jun 6, however, the players who were part of IPL are unlikely to train.

IND vs AFG One-off Test: Auqib Nabi’s omission from India’s squad sparked debate, but the BCCI has now handed the Jammu and Kashmir pacer a surprise opportunity.

Amid criticism over his exclusion from India’s squad for the upcoming one-off Test against Afghanistan, Jammu and Kashmir fast bowler Auqib Nabi is reportedly set to join the team as a net bowler. The right-arm pacer enjoyed a remarkable 2025-26 domestic season, playing an important role in Jammu and Kashmir’s historic maiden Ranji Trophy triumph as the tournament’s highest wicket-taker. Nabi has claimed 156 wickets in 41 first-class matches at an impressive average of 18.37. During the recently concluded Ranji Trophy campaign, he produced outstanding numbers, taking 60 wickets at an average of 12.57, including seven five-wicket hauls. According to reports, Nabi is one of six bowlers who will assist the Indian team during practice sessions ahead of the Test. “Yes Auqib Nabi has been asked to join the India nets. It is not just Auqib but there are six others, who have also been called to join the India nets. Due to extreme weather conditions, the two premier fast bowlers Mohammed Siraj and Prasidh Krishna can’t go flat out in the nets after a gruelling three games in seven days with travel. The batters would need adequate practice," a BCCI source was quoted as saying by news agency PTI. Despite his exceptional performances, the 29-year-old was overlooked for the 15-member Test squad, instead, the selection panel, led by Ajit Agarkar, handed a first national call-up to Punjab seamer Gurnoor Brar. Also Read - Indonesia Open 2026: PV Sindhu advances to Round of 16, Srikanth, Malvika exit Addressing Nabi’s omission, Agarkar acknowledged that the pacer was seriously considered but explained that team balance and Indian conditions limited the number of fast bowlers selected. “Auqib Nabi, of course, is someone who has had a great season, not just now but last season as well," Agarkar said. “There’s always a chat around that, but you don’t necessarily pick a lot of seamers when you pick a Test team in India. He was close, but at this point we have gone with the three that we have picked. But there was certainly a chat around that. There is no doubt that he has had some incredible performances for Jammu and Kashmir." Also Read - Team India's schedule after IPL 2026: Complete list of matches, dates and venues UP leg-spinner Zeeshan Ansari, who represents Sunrisers Hyderabad in the IPL, has also been asked to bowl in the nets as Afghanistan are expected to field several wrist-spinners. India are scheduled to begin preparations this afternoon for the match, which starts on Jun 6, however, the players who were part of IPL are unlikely to train.

IND vs AFG One-off Test: Auqib Nabi’s omission from India’s squad sparked debate, but the BCCI has now handed the Jammu and Kashmir pacer a surprise opportunity.

Auqib Nabi added to India squad as backup for one-off Test vs Afghanistan

Shortly after the 2026 edition of the Indian Premier League (IPL) concludes, India’s international cricket calendar will resume with a lone Test against Afghanistan in New Chandigarh on June 6. Led by Shubman Gill, who recently guided Gujarat Titans to the IPL final, the squad includes key red-ball players such as KL Rahul, Yashasvi Jaiswal, Rishabh Pant and Mohammed Siraj, all set to return to the longer format.&nbsp;Following the Test, India will shift focus to preparations for next year’s World Cup with a three-match ODI series against Afghanistan. The series will also see the return of senior players Virat Kohli and Rohit Sharma to international cricket, having already retired from Tests and T20Is.&nbsp;Meanwhile, India A team, under Tilak Varma’s leadership, will compete in a tri-series against Sri Lanka A and Afghanistan A from Jun 9 to 21. The squad blends youth and experience, featuring IPL 2026 Orange Cap winner Vaibhav Sooryavanshi, Ruturaj Gaikwad and attacking openers Prabhsimran Singh and Priyansh Arya.&nbsp;&nbsp;The seven-match tournament in Sri Lanka is expected to serve as a key platform for emerging players aiming to push for selection in India’s ODI setup ahead of the global event.&nbsp;Also Read - <a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/what-a-player-and-what-a-knock-virat-kohli-gets-special-praise-from-this-england-footballer-after-rcb-s-back-to-back-ipl-titles-1780380131610">Kohli gets special praise from THIS footballer as RCB win back-to-back IPL title</a>&nbsp;India’s packed schedule continues with two T20Is in Ireland, followed by a tour of England featuring five T20Is and three ODIs from Jul 1 to 19.&nbsp;Later in 2026, India are scheduled to tour Zimbabwe for three T20Is, host the West Indies for three ODIs and five T20Is and conclude the year at home with white-ball series against Sri Lanka comprising three ODIs and three T20Is in December.&nbsp;Also Read - <a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/icc-reschedules-women-s-champions-trophy-2027-to-february-window-1780384079095">ICC reschedules Women’s Champions Trophy 2027 to February window</a><h3>Afghanistan tour of India 2026</h3><ul><li>Only Test: Jun 6 to 10 - New Chandigarh</li><li>1st ODI: Jun 13 - Dharamsala</li><li>2nd ODI: Jun 17 - Lucknow</li><li>3rd ODI: Jun 20 - Chennai</li></ul><h3>A-Team Tri-Series (IND-A, AFG-A &amp; SL-A)</h3><ul><li>1st match: Jun 9 - Sri Lanka A vs India A - Dambulla</li><li>2nd match: Jun 11 - Afghanistan A vs India A - Dambulla</li><li>4th match: Jun 15 - Sri Lanka A vs India A - Dambulla</li><li>5th match: Jun 17 - Afghanistan A vs India A - Dambulla</li><li>Final: Jun 21 - Dambulla</li></ul><h3>India tour of Ireland 2026</h3><ul><li>1st T20I: Jun 26 - Belfast</li><li>2nd T20I: Jun 28 - Belfast</li></ul><h3>India tour of England 2026</h3><ul><li>1st T20I: Jul 1 - Chester-le-Street</li><li>2nd T20I: Jul 4 - Manchester</li><li>3rd T20I: Jul 7 - Nottingham</li><li>4th T20I: Jul 9 - Bristol</li><li>5th T20I: Jul 11 - Southampton</li><li>1st ODI: Jul 14 - Birmingham</li><li>2nd ODI: Jul 16 - Cardiff</li><li>3rd ODI: Jul 19 - Lord’s</li></ul>

Complete list of India’s international fixtures following the conclusion of IPL 2026 on May 31.

Shortly after the 2026 edition of the Indian Premier League (IPL) concludes, India’s international cricket calendar will resume with a lone Test against Afghanistan in New Chandigarh on June 6. Led by Shubman Gill, who recently guided Gujarat Titans to the IPL final, the squad includes key red-ball players such as KL Rahul, Yashasvi Jaiswal, Rishabh Pant and Mohammed Siraj, all set to return to the longer format. Following the Test, India will shift focus to preparations for next year’s World Cup with a three-match ODI series against Afghanistan. The series will also see the return of senior players Virat Kohli and Rohit Sharma to international cricket, having already retired from Tests and T20Is. Meanwhile, India A team, under Tilak Varma’s leadership, will compete in a tri-series against Sri Lanka A and Afghanistan A from Jun 9 to 21. The squad blends youth and experience, featuring IPL 2026 Orange Cap winner Vaibhav Sooryavanshi, Ruturaj Gaikwad and attacking openers Prabhsimran Singh and Priyansh Arya. The seven-match tournament in Sri Lanka is expected to serve as a key platform for emerging players aiming to push for selection in India’s ODI setup ahead of the global event. Also Read - Kohli gets special praise from THIS footballer as RCB win back-to-back IPL title India’s packed schedule continues with two T20Is in Ireland, followed by a tour of England featuring five T20Is and three ODIs from Jul 1 to 19. Later in 2026, India are scheduled to tour Zimbabwe for three T20Is, host the West Indies for three ODIs and five T20Is and conclude the year at home with white-ball series against Sri Lanka comprising three ODIs and three T20Is in December. Also Read - ICC reschedules Women’s Champions Trophy 2027 to February window Afghanistan tour of India 2026 Only Test: Jun 6 to 10 - New Chandigarh 1st ODI: Jun 13 - Dharamsala 2nd ODI: Jun 17 - Lucknow 3rd ODI: Jun 20 - Chennai A-Team Tri-Series (IND-A, AFG-A & SL-A) 1st match: Jun 9 - Sri Lanka A vs India A - Dambulla 2nd match: Jun 11 - Afghanistan A vs India A - Dambulla 4th match: Jun 15 - Sri Lanka A vs India A - Dambulla 5th match: Jun 17 - Afghanistan A vs India A - Dambulla Final: Jun 21 - Dambulla India tour of Ireland 2026 1st T20I: Jun 26 - Belfast 2nd T20I: Jun 28 - Belfast India tour of England 2026 1st T20I: Jul 1 - Chester-le-Street 2nd T20I: Jul 4 - Manchester 3rd T20I: Jul 7 - Nottingham 4th T20I: Jul 9 - Bristol 5th T20I: Jul 11 - Southampton 1st ODI: Jul 14 - Birmingham 2nd ODI: Jul 16 - Cardiff 3rd ODI: Jul 19 - Lord’s

Complete list of India’s international fixtures following the conclusion of IPL 2026 on May 31.

Team India's schedule after IPL 2026: Complete list of matches, dates and venues

The International Cricket Council (ICC) has rescheduled the inaugural Women’s Champions Trophy to Feb 2027, following decisions taken at its Board meeting in Ahmedabad on Sunday. Originally scheduled for June-July, the tournament will now take place from Feb 14 to 28, however, the ICC did not provide a specific explanation for the revised schedule. In a statement released on Monday, ICC Chairman Jay Shah said the discussions in Ahmedabad reflected the governing body’s focus on strengthening governance, administration and the global development of cricket.&nbsp;“Our discussions in Ahmedabad have reinforced the ICC’s commitment to governance, administration and the growth of cricket globally. From women’s cricket and emerging nations to the management of franchise competitions, today’s discussions and decisions aim to ensure that cricket remains fair, competitive, and exciting for fans worldwide," ICC chairman Jay Shah said in a statement on Monday.&nbsp;First announced in 2022, the Women’s Champions Trophy will be played in the T20 format and the new dates create a partial overlap with New Zealand’s white-ball tour of Australia, which runs from Feb 27 to Mar 7 and includes six limited-overs matches.&nbsp;Also Read - <a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/how-vaibhav-sooryavanshi-planned-his-historic-776-run-ipl-season-months-in-advance-1780384799933">How Vaibhav Sooryavanshi planned his historic 776-run IPL season months in advance</a>&nbsp;According to ESPNcricinfo, Cricket Australia is evaluating possible options after being informed of the scheduling change.<h3>Women’s Emerging Nations Trophy introduced</h3>The ICC also confirmed the launch of the Women’s Emerging Nations Trophy in 2026 as a pilot event featuring 10 teams. The competition will include five full member nations and five associate member teams, selected based on rankings and previous Women’s T20 World Cup qualification performances.&nbsp;Also Read - <a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/what-a-player-and-what-a-knock-virat-kohli-gets-special-praise-from-this-england-footballer-after-rcb-s-back-to-back-ipl-titles-1780380131610">Kohli gets special praise from THIS footballer as RCB win back-to-back IPL title</a><h3>Qualification pathway for Women’s T20 World Cup 2028 approved</h3>During the meeting, the ICC Board also approved the qualification structure for the Women’s T20 World Cup 2028, which will be hosted by Pakistan. Under the existing arrangement, India’s matches in the tournament will be played at a neutral venue.&nbsp;The 12-team event will grant automatic qualification to 10 teams and will include the top eight sides from the 2026 Women’s T20 World Cup, the host nation if it has not already qualified and the next highest-ranked team in the ICC Women’s T20I rankings as of 6 Jul, 2026.&nbsp;The final two places will be decided through a 10-team global qualifying tournament.

The ICC has rescheduled the inaugural Women’s Champions Trophy in Sri Lanka from its original June-July window to February 2027.

The International Cricket Council (ICC) has rescheduled the inaugural Women’s Champions Trophy to Feb 2027, following decisions taken at its Board meeting in Ahmedabad on Sunday. Originally scheduled for June-July, the tournament will now take place from Feb 14 to 28, however, the ICC did not provide a specific explanation for the revised schedule. In a statement released on Monday, ICC Chairman Jay Shah said the discussions in Ahmedabad reflected the governing body’s focus on strengthening governance, administration and the global development of cricket. “Our discussions in Ahmedabad have reinforced the ICC’s commitment to governance, administration and the growth of cricket globally. From women’s cricket and emerging nations to the management of franchise competitions, today’s discussions and decisions aim to ensure that cricket remains fair, competitive, and exciting for fans worldwide," ICC chairman Jay Shah said in a statement on Monday. First announced in 2022, the Women’s Champions Trophy will be played in the T20 format and the new dates create a partial overlap with New Zealand’s white-ball tour of Australia, which runs from Feb 27 to Mar 7 and includes six limited-overs matches. Also Read - How Vaibhav Sooryavanshi planned his historic 776-run IPL season months in advance According to ESPNcricinfo, Cricket Australia is evaluating possible options after being informed of the scheduling change. Women’s Emerging Nations Trophy introduced The ICC also confirmed the launch of the Women’s Emerging Nations Trophy in 2026 as a pilot event featuring 10 teams. The competition will include five full member nations and five associate member teams, selected based on rankings and previous Women’s T20 World Cup qualification performances. Also Read - Kohli gets special praise from THIS footballer as RCB win back-to-back IPL title Qualification pathway for Women’s T20 World Cup 2028 approved During the meeting, the ICC Board also approved the qualification structure for the Women’s T20 World Cup 2028, which will be hosted by Pakistan. Under the existing arrangement, India’s matches in the tournament will be played at a neutral venue. The 12-team event will grant automatic qualification to 10 teams and will include the top eight sides from the 2026 Women’s T20 World Cup, the host nation if it has not already qualified and the next highest-ranked team in the ICC Women’s T20I rankings as of 6 Jul, 2026. The final two places will be decided through a 10-team global qualifying tournament.

The ICC has rescheduled the inaugural Women’s Champions Trophy in Sri Lanka from its original June-July window to February 2027.

ICC reschedules Women’s Champions Trophy 2027 to February window

Royal Challengers Bengaluru (RCB) batter Tim David has been suspended for one match by the Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI) after violating the IPL Code of Conduct during the IPL 2026 final against the Gujarat Titans in Ahmedabad. The suspension will take effect in the opening game of the IPL 2027 season. According to an official IPL statement, David was fined 50 per cent of his match fee and handed two demerit points for committing a Level 1 offence under Article 2.9 of the Code of Conduct.&nbsp;The regulation relates to “throwing a ball (or any other item of cricket equipment such as a water bottle) at or near a Player, Team Official, Umpire, Match Referee or any other third person in an inappropriate and/or dangerous manner during a Match."&nbsp;As per the statement, the incident occurred in the 10th over of Gujarat Titans’ innings when David threw an ice bag aggressively in the direction of on-field umpire Nitin Menon. The Australian batter accepted responsibility for the offence and agreed to the penalty imposed by match referee Javagal Srinath.&nbsp;Also Read - <a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/ind-w-vs-eng-w-3rd-t20i-when-and-where-to-watch-live-streaming-in-india-1780321440408">IND-W vs ENG-W, 3rd T20I: When and where to watch live streaming in India?</a>&nbsp;The sanction carries further consequences because it was David’s third Level 1 offence of the season; he had previously accumulated one demerit point in match 20 and two more in match 54. With the latest breach adding another two points, his season tally has reached five demerit points, which has led to an automatic one-match suspension.&nbsp;Also Read - <a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/icc-approves-red-to-pink-ball-switch-in-tests-to-reduce-bad-light-interruptions-1780323727292">ICC approves red-to-pink ball switch in Tests to reduce bad-light interruptions</a>&nbsp;As a result, David will be unavailable for the first match of IPL 2027, regardless of which franchise he represents. Earlier in the tournament, he was also penalised for refusing to hand the ball back to the umpire during a league-stage fixture.&nbsp;Despite the disciplinary setback, David played a crucial role in RCB’s successful title defence, contributing 305 runs at an impressive strike rate of 188.27. The Bengaluru side defeated Gujarat Titans at the Narendra Modi Stadium to retain the championship on Sunday (May 31).

Tim David banned for one match by BCCI after umpire incident in IPL 2026 final; here’s what happened

Royal Challengers Bengaluru (RCB) batter Tim David has been suspended for one match by the Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI) after violating the IPL Code of Conduct during the IPL 2026 final against the Gujarat Titans in Ahmedabad. The suspension will take effect in the opening game of the IPL 2027 season. According to an official IPL statement, David was fined 50 per cent of his match fee and handed two demerit points for committing a Level 1 offence under Article 2.9 of the Code of Conduct. The regulation relates to “throwing a ball (or any other item of cricket equipment such as a water bottle) at or near a Player, Team Official, Umpire, Match Referee or any other third person in an inappropriate and/or dangerous manner during a Match." As per the statement, the incident occurred in the 10th over of Gujarat Titans’ innings when David threw an ice bag aggressively in the direction of on-field umpire Nitin Menon. The Australian batter accepted responsibility for the offence and agreed to the penalty imposed by match referee Javagal Srinath. Also Read - IND-W vs ENG-W, 3rd T20I: When and where to watch live streaming in India? The sanction carries further consequences because it was David’s third Level 1 offence of the season; he had previously accumulated one demerit point in match 20 and two more in match 54. With the latest breach adding another two points, his season tally has reached five demerit points, which has led to an automatic one-match suspension. Also Read - ICC approves red-to-pink ball switch in Tests to reduce bad-light interruptions As a result, David will be unavailable for the first match of IPL 2027, regardless of which franchise he represents. Earlier in the tournament, he was also penalised for refusing to hand the ball back to the umpire during a league-stage fixture. Despite the disciplinary setback, David played a crucial role in RCB’s successful title defence, contributing 305 runs at an impressive strike rate of 188.27. The Bengaluru side defeated Gujarat Titans at the Narendra Modi Stadium to retain the championship on Sunday (May 31).

Tim David banned for one match by BCCI after umpire incident in IPL 2026 final; here’s what happened

Why did Tim David receive a fine & one-match ban after IPL Final?

The International Cricket Council (ICC) has approved a trial in Test cricket that could see the traditional red ball replaced by a pink ball when poor light threatens to halt play. Approved during the ICC Board’s annual meeting in Ahmedabad, the initiative will only be implemented if both teams agree to the arrangement before a series begins. Under the trial, Test matches will continue to start with the red ball, but if fading light risks the loss of overs, floodlights may be used and a pink ball introduced to allow play to continue.&nbsp;&nbsp;The concept is aimed at reducing disruptions caused by bad light. For example, if 75 of the scheduled 90 overs in a day have already been completed and bad conditions prevent the remaining 15 overs from being bowled, those overs could be played under lights with a pink ball, provided both teams had agreed to the option.&nbsp;&nbsp;The ICC also confirmed that match officials will be able to use Hawk-Eye technology when reviewing and reporting suspected illegal bowling actions. Additionally, the governing body, in partnership with the Marylebone Cricket Club (MCC), will invest in research and development projects focused on advanced lighting technologies to help minimise stoppages caused by poor visibility.&nbsp;Also Read - <a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/ind-w-vs-eng-w-3rd-t20i-when-and-where-to-watch-live-streaming-in-india-1780321440408">IND-W vs ENG-W, 3rd T20I: When and where to watch live streaming in India?</a>&nbsp;In a statement, the ICC said the pink-ball trial is intended to “maximise play in case of anticipated bad light,” while maintaining the full scheduled quota of overs in Test matches.&nbsp;"Trialing the use of a pink ball in Test matches, with prior agreement from both teams, to maximise play in case of anticipated bad light," said ICC in a statement.&nbsp;Also Read - <a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/will-do-everything-bcci-drops-key-hint-on-vaibhav-sooryavanshi-1780310720719">'Will do everything...': BCCI drops key hint on Vaibhav Sooryavanshi</a>&nbsp;Among the other revised playing conditions, head coaches or individuals nominated by them will now be permitted to communicate with players during official drinks breaks. The updated regulations also introduce a standard 15-minute innings interval in T20 Internationals and require batters to be ready to resume play immediately after the break.&nbsp;Meanwhile, the ICC has revised the schedule for the inaugural Women’s Champions Trophy in 2027, moving the tournament from its originally planned June-July window to Feb 14-28. The competition will be hosted in Sri Lanka and played in the T20I format, as decided earlier.&nbsp;The ICC has also approved a pilot edition of the Women’s Emerging Nations Trophy, a 10-team tournament will feature five full member nations and five associate member teams, selected according to rankings and performances in T20 World Cup qualification events.

The ICC approved trial use of pink balls in Tests in case bad light affects play and allowed head coaches inside the field during drinks breaks at its annual meeting in Ahmedabad.

The International Cricket Council (ICC) has approved a trial in Test cricket that could see the traditional red ball replaced by a pink ball when poor light threatens to halt play. Approved during the ICC Board’s annual meeting in Ahmedabad, the initiative will only be implemented if both teams agree to the arrangement before a series begins. Under the trial, Test matches will continue to start with the red ball, but if fading light risks the loss of overs, floodlights may be used and a pink ball introduced to allow play to continue. The concept is aimed at reducing disruptions caused by bad light. For example, if 75 of the scheduled 90 overs in a day have already been completed and bad conditions prevent the remaining 15 overs from being bowled, those overs could be played under lights with a pink ball, provided both teams had agreed to the option. The ICC also confirmed that match officials will be able to use Hawk-Eye technology when reviewing and reporting suspected illegal bowling actions. Additionally, the governing body, in partnership with the Marylebone Cricket Club (MCC), will invest in research and development projects focused on advanced lighting technologies to help minimise stoppages caused by poor visibility. Also Read - IND-W vs ENG-W, 3rd T20I: When and where to watch live streaming in India? In a statement, the ICC said the pink-ball trial is intended to “maximise play in case of anticipated bad light,” while maintaining the full scheduled quota of overs in Test matches. "Trialing the use of a pink ball in Test matches, with prior agreement from both teams, to maximise play in case of anticipated bad light," said ICC in a statement. Also Read - 'Will do everything...': BCCI drops key hint on Vaibhav Sooryavanshi Among the other revised playing conditions, head coaches or individuals nominated by them will now be permitted to communicate with players during official drinks breaks. The updated regulations also introduce a standard 15-minute innings interval in T20 Internationals and require batters to be ready to resume play immediately after the break. Meanwhile, the ICC has revised the schedule for the inaugural Women’s Champions Trophy in 2027, moving the tournament from its originally planned June-July window to Feb 14-28. The competition will be hosted in Sri Lanka and played in the T20I format, as decided earlier. The ICC has also approved a pilot edition of the Women’s Emerging Nations Trophy, a 10-team tournament will feature five full member nations and five associate member teams, selected according to rankings and performances in T20 World Cup qualification events.

The ICC approved trial use of pink balls in Tests in case bad light affects play and allowed head coaches inside the field during drinks breaks at its annual meeting in Ahmedabad.

ICC approves red-to-pink ball switch in Tests to reduce bad-light interruptions

The Indian women’s cricket team, captained by Harmanpreet Kaur, is gearing up for the third and final T20I of the three-match series against England at Taunton’s Cooper Associates County Ground. With the series tied 1-1, the winner of this encounter will not only clinch the series but also gain valuable momentum ahead of the upcoming Women’s T20 World Cup.&nbsp;For India, the series has served as an important opportunity to assess combinations and strategies suited to English conditions before the global tournament. Among the standout performers so far has been Yastika Bhatia, who followed her impressive half-century in the opening match with another useful contribution in the second game.&nbsp;&nbsp;Also Read - <a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/virat-kohli-is-heartbeat-of-our-dressing-room-coach-andy-flower-after-rcb-s-ipl-2026-triumph-1780313161472">'Virat Kohli is heartbeat of our dressing room': Coach Andy Flower after RCB's IPL 2026 triumph</a>&nbsp;Jemimah Rodrigues also produced a fifty, while Smriti Mandhana and Shafali Verma showed encouraging form with promising starts in the previous fixture.&nbsp;However, India’s batting unit has struggled to capitalise in the closing stages of the innings and has lost momentum during the final overs in both matches and power-hitter Richa Ghosh is yet to make a significant impact in the series.&nbsp;As the crucial clash between India Women and England Women approaches, here’s a look at the live streaming details for fans in India.&nbsp;Also Read - <a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/will-do-everything-bcci-drops-key-hint-on-vaibhav-sooryavanshi-1780310720719">'Will do everything...': BCCI drops key hint on Vaibhav Sooryavanshi</a><h3>India vs England Women, 3rd T20I: Match Details</h3><h3>When will the 3rd T20I be played?</h3>The final T20I of the series is scheduled for Jun 2, with the match set to begin at 11:00 pm IST. The toss will take place at 10:30 pm IST.<h3>Where is the match being played?</h3>The match will be held at the Cooper Associates County Ground in Taunton.<h3>Where can fans watch the match on television?</h3>The India Women vs England Women 3rd T20I live telecast will be available on the Star Sports in India.<h2>Where to livestream India-W vs ENG-W, 3rd T20I?</h2>The India Women vs England Women 3rd T20I will be streamed live on the SonyLIV app and website.

As the crucial clash between India Women and England Women approaches, here’s a look at the live streaming details for fans in India.

The Indian women’s cricket team, captained by Harmanpreet Kaur, is gearing up for the third and final T20I of the three-match series against England at Taunton’s Cooper Associates County Ground. With the series tied 1-1, the winner of this encounter will not only clinch the series but also gain valuable momentum ahead of the upcoming Women’s T20 World Cup. For India, the series has served as an important opportunity to assess combinations and strategies suited to English conditions before the global tournament. Among the standout performers so far has been Yastika Bhatia, who followed her impressive half-century in the opening match with another useful contribution in the second game. Also Read - 'Virat Kohli is heartbeat of our dressing room': Coach Andy Flower after RCB's IPL 2026 triumph Jemimah Rodrigues also produced a fifty, while Smriti Mandhana and Shafali Verma showed encouraging form with promising starts in the previous fixture. However, India’s batting unit has struggled to capitalise in the closing stages of the innings and has lost momentum during the final overs in both matches and power-hitter Richa Ghosh is yet to make a significant impact in the series. As the crucial clash between India Women and England Women approaches, here’s a look at the live streaming details for fans in India. Also Read - 'Will do everything...': BCCI drops key hint on Vaibhav Sooryavanshi India vs England Women, 3rd T20I: Match Details When will the 3rd T20I be played? The final T20I of the series is scheduled for Jun 2, with the match set to begin at 11:00 pm IST. The toss will take place at 10:30 pm IST. Where is the match being played? The match will be held at the Cooper Associates County Ground in Taunton. Where can fans watch the match on television? The India Women vs England Women 3rd T20I live telecast will be available on the Star Sports in India. Where to livestream India-W vs ENG-W, 3rd T20I? The India Women vs England Women 3rd T20I will be streamed live on the SonyLIV app and website.

As the crucial clash between India Women and England Women approaches, here’s a look at the live streaming details for fans in India.

IND-W vs ENG-W, 3rd T20I: When and where to watch live streaming in India?

Royal Challengers Bengaluru (RCB) head coach Andy Flower hailed Virat Kohli after the franchise successfully retained its Indian Premier League (IPL) title with a victory over Gujarat Titans (GT) in the 2026 final at Ahmedabad’s Narendra Modi Stadium. Flower described Kohli as the role model within the RCB camp and praised the veteran batter for setting a powerful example through his dedication and fearless approach.&nbsp;RCB became only the third franchise in IPL history, after Chennai Super Kings and Mumbai Indians, to defend the championship successfully. Led by Rajat Patidar, the side first restricted GT to 155/8 before chasing down the target with five wickets in hand and two overs to spare.&nbsp;Speaking in a video shared by RCB on X, Flower highlighted Kohli’s influence on the team, calling him the emotional core of the dressing room.&nbsp;&nbsp;"Virat, I know you get a lot of attention and quite rightly. But I don't want to downplay that because you are a heartbeat in this dressing room. And the courage that you continually show to go out there and put yourself on the line and take on high-quality opposition is a bloody great role modelling for all of us," Flower said in the video.

<blockquote class="twitter-tweet" data-media-max-width="560">“𝘠𝘰𝘶 𝘢𝘳𝘦 𝘢 𝘩𝘦𝘢𝘳𝘵𝘣𝘦𝘢𝘵 𝘪𝘯 𝘵𝘩𝘪𝘴 𝘥𝘳𝘦𝘴𝘴𝘪𝘯𝘨 𝘳𝘰𝘰𝘮”: Andy Flower to Virat Kohli ❤️ Coach Andy uncut. From highlighting top performances, to wishing the young guns. Here’s a special from Andy’s dressing room talk. 🎥😇🤩 Thank you, Coach! 🫡 To be… <a href="https://t.co/QHGI6xCmLP">pic.twitter.com/QHGI6xCmLP</a>&mdash; Royal Challengers Bengaluru (@RCBTweets) <a href="https://x.com/RCBTweets/status/2061297210449625193?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">June 1, 2026</a></blockquote> <script async src="https://platform.x.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script>

Flower further acknowledged that Kohli often attracts significant attention, but stressed that his importance to the squad goes far beyond public recognition. According to the coach, Kohli’s willingness to shoulder responsibility and compete fearlessly against the best players in the world makes him an exceptional role model for the entire group.&nbsp;&nbsp;"When I think of our season, and I particularly think of the last couple of games in the playoffs, what really stands out for me is the bravery of you guys in the middle. There's been countless examples of it. But when you're playing at the top level, and that's Test cricket or World Cups or IPL, you need to be obviously highly skilful. You need to have cricket intelligence, but you really need to have heart. And we've seen that in abundance this year," Flower said.&nbsp;Also Read - <a href="https://www.wionews.com/entertainment/bollywood/anushka-sharma-plants-a-kiss-on-virat-kohli-s-forehead-as-they-celebrate-rcb-s-ipl-win-see-pic-1780315153831">Anushka Sharma plants a kiss on Virat Kohli’s forehead as they celebrate RCB’s IPL win, see pic</a>&nbsp;In the final, Gujarat Titans struggled to build momentum after being asked to bat first. Washington Sundar top-scored with an unbeaten 50 off 37 deliveries, while Nishant Sindhu contributed 20. RCB’s bowlers kept the pressure on throughout the innings, with Rasikh Dar Salam claiming 3/27, while Bhuvneshwar Kumar and Josh Hazlewood picked up two wickets each.&nbsp;RCB’s chase began strongly through a 62-run opening partnership between Venkatesh Iyer and Kohli. Although GT fought back and reduced the defending champions to 132/5, Kohli remained composed, finishing unbeaten on 75 from 42 balls. His innings, featuring nine boundaries and three sixes, steered RCB to victory with 12 balls remaining.&nbsp;The triumph secured RCB’s second IPL crown and added another milestone to the franchise’s growing trophy collection, which also includes two Women’s Premier League (WPL) titles, taking their tally of major Indian franchise cricket trophies to four.

RCB head coach Andy Flower hailed Virat Kohli as the heartbeat of the dressing room after the franchise's IPL 2026 triumph over the Gujarat Titans in the final.

Royal Challengers Bengaluru (RCB) head coach Andy Flower hailed Virat Kohli after the franchise successfully retained its Indian Premier League (IPL) title with a victory over Gujarat Titans (GT) in the 2026 final at Ahmedabad’s Narendra Modi Stadium. Flower described Kohli as the role model within the RCB camp and praised the veteran batter for setting a powerful example through his dedication and fearless approach. RCB became only the third franchise in IPL history, after Chennai Super Kings and Mumbai Indians, to defend the championship successfully. Led by Rajat Patidar, the side first restricted GT to 155/8 before chasing down the target with five wickets in hand and two overs to spare. Speaking in a video shared by RCB on X, Flower highlighted Kohli’s influence on the team, calling him the emotional core of the dressing room. "Virat, I know you get a lot of attention and quite rightly. But I don't want to downplay that because you are a heartbeat in this dressing room. And the courage that you continually show to go out there and put yourself on the line and take on high-quality opposition is a bloody great role modelling for all of us," Flower said in the video.

RCB head coach Andy Flower hailed Virat Kohli as the heartbeat of the dressing room after the franchise's IPL 2026 triumph over the Gujarat Titans in the final.

'Virat Kohli is heartbeat of our dressing room': Coach Andy Flower after RCB's IPL 2026 triumph

Praising teenage batting prodigy Vaibhav Sooryavanshi for his outstanding IPL 2026 campaign, BCCI secretary Devajit Saikia said the board would provide every possible support to help the 15-year-old reach the “highest level of cricket". Playing for Rajasthan Royals, Sooryavanshi ended IPL 2026 as the tournament’s leading run-getter, scoring 776 runs at an extraordinary strike rate of 237.30.&nbsp;&nbsp;At just 15 years and 65 days old, he became the youngest player ever to win the Orange Cap, surpassing the previous mark set by Sai Sudharsan, who earned the honour while representing Gujarat Titans at the age of 23 years and 231 days.&nbsp;“Vaibhav Sooryavanshi is a wonderful player coming up, and he has a bright future. BCCI will do everything to get him to the highest level of cricket," Saikia said after the IPL final in Ahmedabad on Sunday night.&nbsp;Saikia also applauded Royal Challengers Bengaluru for successfully retaining their IPL crown.&nbsp;“It was a wonderful season… I hope all the fans have a lovely time during this IPL, and congratulations to RCB for winning the tournament consecutively twice," he said.&nbsp;Also Read - <a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/ipl-2026-rcb-cancels-victory-parade-amid-security-and-crowd-management-concerns-1780308593561">IPL 2026: RCB cancels victory parade amid security and crowd management concerns</a>&nbsp;Focus will now shift to India’s preparations for the upcoming ICC Women’s T20 World Cup, where the team will be chasing its first-ever title. Confidence is high around the India women’s team after their landmark ODI World Cup victory at home last year, when they defeated South Africa in the final.&nbsp;“That is the most challenging thing (Women’s T20 World Cup) coming up in the coming days. They (Women in Blue) are already doing well… and I hope they will repeat the same performance they did last year by winning the ODI title," Saikia added.&nbsp;Also Read - <a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/french-open-2026-world-no-1-sabalenka-faces-osaka-in-historic-night-clash-1780294182401">French Open 2026: World no 1 Sabalenka faces Osaka in historic night clash</a>&nbsp;Former BCCI president Anurag Thakur also praised the title-winning efforts of the Rajat Patidar-led RCB side.&nbsp;“I congratulate RCB for winning the IPL for the second consecutive time. The match was happening in Ahmedabad, but many RCB fans had come to watch the match. This was a great victory in cricket… IPL is the biggest league of cricket. This is a very big achievement of BCCI," Thakur said.

At just 15 years and 65 days old, Vaibhav Sooryavanshi became the youngest Orange Cap winner in IPL history, surpassing Sai Sudharsan's previous record.

Praising teenage batting prodigy Vaibhav Sooryavanshi for his outstanding IPL 2026 campaign, BCCI secretary Devajit Saikia said the board would provide every possible support to help the 15-year-old reach the “highest level of cricket". Playing for Rajasthan Royals, Sooryavanshi ended IPL 2026 as the tournament’s leading run-getter, scoring 776 runs at an extraordinary strike rate of 237.30. At just 15 years and 65 days old, he became the youngest player ever to win the Orange Cap, surpassing the previous mark set by Sai Sudharsan, who earned the honour while representing Gujarat Titans at the age of 23 years and 231 days. “Vaibhav Sooryavanshi is a wonderful player coming up, and he has a bright future. BCCI will do everything to get him to the highest level of cricket," Saikia said after the IPL final in Ahmedabad on Sunday night. Saikia also applauded Royal Challengers Bengaluru for successfully retaining their IPL crown. “It was a wonderful season… I hope all the fans have a lovely time during this IPL, and congratulations to RCB for winning the tournament consecutively twice," he said. Also Read - IPL 2026: RCB cancels victory parade amid security and crowd management concerns Focus will now shift to India’s preparations for the upcoming ICC Women’s T20 World Cup, where the team will be chasing its first-ever title. Confidence is high around the India women’s team after their landmark ODI World Cup victory at home last year, when they defeated South Africa in the final. “That is the most challenging thing (Women’s T20 World Cup) coming up in the coming days. They (Women in Blue) are already doing well… and I hope they will repeat the same performance they did last year by winning the ODI title," Saikia added. Also Read - French Open 2026: World no 1 Sabalenka faces Osaka in historic night clash Former BCCI president Anurag Thakur also praised the title-winning efforts of the Rajat Patidar-led RCB side. “I congratulate RCB for winning the IPL for the second consecutive time. The match was happening in Ahmedabad, but many RCB fans had come to watch the match. This was a great victory in cricket… IPL is the biggest league of cricket. This is a very big achievement of BCCI," Thakur said.

At just 15 years and 65 days old, Vaibhav Sooryavanshi became the youngest Orange Cap winner in IPL history, surpassing Sai Sudharsan's previous record.

'Will do everything...': BCCI drops key hint on Vaibhav Sooryavanshi

From KL Rahul to Jos Buttler, here's a look at the top five batters fastest to 3000 runs in Indian Premier League. This list also includes Chris Gayle, David Warner and Faf du Plessis

From KL Rahul to Jos Buttler, here's a look at the top five batters fastest to 3000 runs in Indian Premier League. This list also includes Chris Gayle, David Warner and Faf du Plessis

Meet top 5 batters fastest to 3000 Indian Premier League runs

From Vaibhav Sooryavanshi to Abhishek Sharma, here's a look at the top five batters with most sixes in IPL 2026. This list also includes Rajat Patidar, Ryan Rickelton and Mitchell Marsh 

From Vaibhav Sooryavanshi to Abhishek Sharma, here's a look at the top five batters with most sixes in IPL 2026. This list also includes Rajat Patidar, Ryan Rickelton and Mitchell Marsh&nbsp;

Meet top 5 batters with most sixes in IPL 2026

Like a king, Virat Kohli did not merely defend the IPL crown. He dominated the final, owned the occasion and finished it in the grandest fashion possible. One clean swing, one towering six, and Royal Challengers Bengaluru are champions again.&nbsp; &nbsp;The image feels almost cinematic, ethereal. Kohli, bat raised, eyes blazing, the crowd roaring in unison. Some players win titles. Kohli creates moments that linger long after the celebrations have ended.&nbsp; &nbsp;Ask any fan about Kohli's magic, and they'll take you back to Melbourne 2022. With India in a difficult situation against Pakistan, Kohli unleashed a breathtaking counterattack, highlighted by an iconic straight six off Haris Rauf, turning a lost cause into one of cricket's most unforgettable victories.&nbsp;This IPL season was another reminder that the fire still burns fiercely. Kohli was not merely surviving on reputation. He was dictating games. He scored heavily, set the tone at the top of the order, and once again became the heartbeat of RCB's campaign. In the final, he produced his fastest IPL fifty and his highest score in a playoff match, delivering when the pressure was at its peak. Kohli, in a blazing opening partnership with Venkatesh Iyer, ripped apart the Gujarat bowlers and powered RCB to the fastest team fifty in mere 3.3 overs. That has always been the Kohli way. When the stakes rise, so does the man.&nbsp;His recent ODI form tells a similar story. The old rhythm is back. The feet move with certainty, the cover drive flows effortlessly, and the chase master remains cricket's most reliable closer. There is still something inevitable about Kohli in pursuit of a target. Oppositions know it. Fans know it. Perhaps Kohli himself knows it too.&nbsp;Which is why the question refuses to disappear. Should he reconsider his Test retirement?&nbsp;Today, Indian cricket is blessed with extraordinary depth. The bench strength is stronger than it has ever been. Young batters are emerging across formats, and opportunities must be created for the future. Yet depth alone does not replace experience. There are talented players waiting in the wings, but then, there is only one Virat Kohli.&nbsp;Sport has often shown that retirement does not always have to be the final chapter. Michael Jordan returned to win three more NBA titles after stepping away from basketball. George Foreman came back from retirement and became heavyweight champion at 45. Again, in cricket, Imran Khan returned to lead Pakistan to the 1992 World Cup. Great players possess a rare ability to rewrite endings that once appeared complete.&nbsp;Of course, Test cricket demands far more than mere desire. It requires months of meticulous preparation, unwavering grit, and absolute dedication.&nbsp;&nbsp;Unlike the frenetic spectacle of a T20 contest, it calls for the fortitude to withstand prolonged periods at the crease, where bowlers are granted both the time and the mandate to scrutinise, identify, and relentlessly exploit every conceivable chink in a batsman's armour. It is a format that tests not only technique and temperament, but also resilience, perseverance, and almost a monk-like commitment to the craft.&nbsp;Kohli alone knows whether he still possesses that hunger. A comeback cannot be driven by public emotion or nostalgia. Kohli retired from Test cricket on May 12, 2025, bringing an end to an illustrious 14-year journey with 9,230 runs from 123 matches, including 30 centuries and 31 fifties.&nbsp;Yet there is a compelling argument that Test cricket still needs him. Indian cricket has produced many fine batters, but Kohli brought something different to the longest format. He made Test cricket feel so special in today's era. He played every session as though it carried the weight of a final. He transformed intensity into an art form.&nbsp;Perhaps this IPL triumph changes nothing. Perhaps it may turn into a glorious final act in a remarkable career. But when a champion continues to perform at the highest level, when he still decides finals and still chases targets with the certainty of old, the conversation becomes unavoidable.&nbsp;The king has conquered the IPL once more. The question now is whether he has one last Test chapter left to write.

Following his explosive match-winning six to secure back-to-back IPL titles for RCB, we look at why Virat Kohli's flawless form demands a massive question: Is it time for the King to come out of Test retirement?

Like a king, Virat Kohli did not merely defend the IPL crown. He dominated the final, owned the occasion and finished it in the grandest fashion possible. One clean swing, one towering six, and Royal Challengers Bengaluru are champions again. The image feels almost cinematic, ethereal. Kohli, bat raised, eyes blazing, the crowd roaring in unison. Some players win titles. Kohli creates moments that linger long after the celebrations have ended. Ask any fan about Kohli's magic, and they'll take you back to Melbourne 2022. With India in a difficult situation against Pakistan, Kohli unleashed a breathtaking counterattack, highlighted by an iconic straight six off Haris Rauf, turning a lost cause into one of cricket's most unforgettable victories. This IPL season was another reminder that the fire still burns fiercely. Kohli was not merely surviving on reputation. He was dictating games. He scored heavily, set the tone at the top of the order, and once again became the heartbeat of RCB's campaign. In the final, he produced his fastest IPL fifty and his highest score in a playoff match, delivering when the pressure was at its peak. Kohli, in a blazing opening partnership with Venkatesh Iyer, ripped apart the Gujarat bowlers and powered RCB to the fastest team fifty in mere 3.3 overs. That has always been the Kohli way. When the stakes rise, so does the man. His recent ODI form tells a similar story. The old rhythm is back. The feet move with certainty, the cover drive flows effortlessly, and the chase master remains cricket's most reliable closer. There is still something inevitable about Kohli in pursuit of a target. Oppositions know it. Fans know it. Perhaps Kohli himself knows it too. Which is why the question refuses to disappear. Should he reconsider his Test retirement? Today, Indian cricket is blessed with extraordinary depth. The bench strength is stronger than it has ever been. Young batters are emerging across formats, and opportunities must be created for the future. Yet depth alone does not replace experience. There are talented players waiting in the wings, but then, there is only one Virat Kohli. Sport has often shown that retirement does not always have to be the final chapter. Michael Jordan returned to win three more NBA titles after stepping away from basketball. George Foreman came back from retirement and became heavyweight champion at 45. Again, in cricket, Imran Khan returned to lead Pakistan to the 1992 World Cup. Great players possess a rare ability to rewrite endings that once appeared complete. Of course, Test cricket demands far more than mere desire. It requires months of meticulous preparation, unwavering grit, and absolute dedication. Unlike the frenetic spectacle of a T20 contest, it calls for the fortitude to withstand prolonged periods at the crease, where bowlers are granted both the time and the mandate to scrutinise, identify, and relentlessly exploit every conceivable chink in a batsman's armour. It is a format that tests not only technique and temperament, but also resilience, perseverance, and almost a monk-like commitment to the craft. Kohli alone knows whether he still possesses that hunger. A comeback cannot be driven by public emotion or nostalgia. Kohli retired from Test cricket on May 12, 2025, bringing an end to an illustrious 14-year journey with 9,230 runs from 123 matches, including 30 centuries and 31 fifties. Yet there is a compelling argument that Test cricket still needs him. Indian cricket has produced many fine batters, but Kohli brought something different to the longest format. He made Test cricket feel so special in today's era. He played every session as though it carried the weight of a final. He transformed intensity into an art form. Perhaps this IPL triumph changes nothing. Perhaps it may turn into a glorious final act in a remarkable career. But when a champion continues to perform at the highest level, when he still decides finals and still chases targets with the certainty of old, the conversation becomes unavoidable. The king has conquered the IPL once more. The question now is whether he has one last Test chapter left to write.

Following his explosive match-winning six to secure back-to-back IPL titles for RCB, we look at why Virat Kohli's flawless form demands a massive question: Is it time for the King to come out of Test retirement?

Should Virat Kohli make a comeback to Test Cricket?

Vaibhav Sooryavanshi is one name cricket fans worldwide will keep hearing and talking about for another two decades. The 15-year-old batting prodigy, playing only his second IPL season, broke multiple records and won not one, not two, but five IPL 2026 awards. The left-handed opener won the Orange Cap, awards for the most sixes hit, being the most valuable player this season and two more.

<blockquote class="twitter-tweet">🔥Most runs - Orange Cap 🔥Most sixes 🔥Most Valuable Player 🔥Super Striker of the Season 🔥Emerging Player of the Season 😂 And an extra suitcase to carry ‘em all! Jug jug jeeyo, Vaibhav Sooryavanshi 💗🙇‍♂️ <a href="https://t.co/L1exzo4qfH">pic.twitter.com/L1exzo4qfH</a>&mdash; Rajasthan Royals (@rajasthanroyals) <a href="https://x.com/rajasthanroyals/status/2061158743056990699?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">May 31, 2026</a></blockquote> <script async src="https://platform.x.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script>

There was no stopping Vaibhav Sooryavanshi. After his IPL debut last season, Vaibhav elevated his game and smashed even the best of attacks for fun this time. Last year, he smashed a 35-ball hundred (against GT) in only his third IPL match, and this time, he added another three-figure score to his tally.&nbsp;Also read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/ipl-2026-final-rcb-vs-gt-potm-virat-kohli-reflects-on-retaining-ipl-crown-with-a-six-back-to-back-titles-1780254846909">‘Wanting to hit winning runs’: POTM Kohli reflects on retaining IPL crown for RCB with a six</a> &nbsp;He even scored five fifties, three of which were agonisingly cut short in the 90s, with the one against SunRisers Hyderabad (SRH) in the Eliminator making headlines. Vaibhav smashed a 29-ball 97 against the SRH, helping RR beat the former champions to qualify for the Qualifier 2. That match saw him break Chris Gayle’s 14-year-old record for the most sixes in an IPL edition. While Gayle clobbered 59 sixes in 2012, Vaibhav amassed 72 in 2026, in only his second IPL edition. Even in the next game against GT, Vaibhav departed playing a similar shot on 96, though RR failed to defend a 200-plus score and lost the match.<h3>All awards won by Vaibhav Sooryavanshi –</h3><ul><li>Most Valuable Player (MVP)</li><li>Orange Cap (776 runs in 16 matches)</li><li>Most Sixes (72)</li><li>Emerging Player of the Year</li><li>Super Striker of the Season (237.3)</li></ul><h3>Here’s what he said after collecting the awards -</h3>"It feels nice, but there is pressure because I am doing interviews. It is a proud moment, and I will try to do well next season too. I try to back my game, and if the ball is there to be hit, I go all out for it and just try to play that way. &nbsp;"How to play the pressure game, how to change myself every game, you can't play every game in one mode, you need to read the game situation and play according to the team's requirements. These are my learnings from this season. [On fitness] Yes, my focus is on that. If I have to play long, I have to stay clear of injuries and work on my fitness and have to focus more,” Vaibhav added.

At just 15 years old, Rajasthan Royals prodigy Vaibhav Sooryavanshi dominated the IPL 2026 awards night by sweeping 5 historic honours, including the Orange Cap and MVP.

Vaibhav Sooryavanshi is one name cricket fans worldwide will keep hearing and talking about for another two decades. The 15-year-old batting prodigy, playing only his second IPL season, broke multiple records and won not one, not two, but five IPL 2026 awards. The left-handed opener won the Orange Cap, awards for the most sixes hit, being the most valuable player this season and two more.

At just 15 years old, Rajasthan Royals prodigy Vaibhav Sooryavanshi dominated the IPL 2026 awards night by sweeping 5 historic honours, including the Orange Cap and MVP.

15-year-old, 2nd season and FIVE awards – How Vaibhav Sooryavanshi owned IPL 2026

There is nothing Virat Kohli hasn’t done on a cricket field. Be it scoring runs, scoring them quickly, smashing 20-odd-ball fifties, winning countless tournaments, yet on Sunday (May 31) in Ahmedabad, he cherished his <a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/rcb-win-ipl-2026-virat-kohli-25-ball-fastest-ipl-fifty-smashes-gt-to-secure-back-to-back-ipl-titles-gt-ahmedabad-royal-challengers-bengaluru-1780245784976">second IPL title with RCB</a> like no other. The batting icon was at the centre of the run chase, scoring an unbeaten 75 and helping RCB complete a historic back-to-back title defence against the Gujarat Titans. Regardless of finishing fourth among the top run-getters this season, Kohli cherished the moment he sealed the game and history for his IPL franchise with a match-winning six. Kohli said it was the stuff of dreams and that he always wanted to hit the winning runs.

<blockquote class="twitter-tweet">Finishing off in style 🥳 And it&#39;s none other than King Kohli 😎👑 Scorecard ▶️ <a href="https://t.co/Yz6K3q6w0X">https://t.co/Yz6K3q6w0X</a><a href="https://x.com/hashtag/TATAIPL?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#TATAIPL</a> | <a href="https://x.com/hashtag/Final?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#Final</a> | <a href="https://x.com/hashtag/TheFinalLeap?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#TheFinalLeap</a> | <a href="https://x.com/hashtag/RCBvGT?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#RCBvGT</a> <a href="https://t.co/FZNGQ26gBs">pic.twitter.com/FZNGQ26gBs</a>&mdash; IndianPremierLeague (@IPL) <a href="https://x.com/IPL/status/2061147057889615936?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">May 31, 2026</a></blockquote> <script async src="https://platform.x.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script>

“Stuff you dream of. Thought of this moment many times, wanting to hit the winning run. Felt really relaxed coming in,” Kohli said after receiving his Player of the Match (POTM) award for his brilliant 75 in IPL 2026 final.&nbsp;Also read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/rcb-vs-gt-ipl-2026-final-internet-erupts-after-virat-kohli-triumph-75-runs-see-reactions-back-to-back-titles-bhuvneshwar-kumar-1780252300496">Internet erupts after Virat Kohli, RCB triumph vs GT in IPL 2026 final| See reactions</a> &nbsp;At 37, Kohli paced and planned his innings to perfection, and it’s no surprise that he won the game and the tournament for his IPL team, something he has done for years now. Speaking highly of this two-time winning IPL unit, Kohli said, “The team we have gives confidence to see any kind of situation through. (I) knew exactly what to do in the chase. Such is the demand, super young players pushing you to up the ante.” &nbsp;Kohli also completed a 25-ball fifty during the run chase, his quickest ever coming in his 19th IPL season.&nbsp; &nbsp;“Gives you something to work towards. I had to change my mindset, not my game so much, take on bowlers and get extra runs. The first target was to go to the top of the table. We didn't care what jersey was in front of us thereon,” he said.

<blockquote class="twitter-tweet">🗣️𝗜𝘁&#39;𝘀 𝘀𝘁𝘂𝗳𝗳 𝘁𝗵𝗮𝘁 𝘆𝗼𝘂 𝗱𝗿𝗲𝗮𝗺 𝗼𝗳 🤩 🎥 Hear from the 𝙢𝙖𝙣 𝙤𝙛 𝙢𝙚𝙜𝙖 𝙢𝙤𝙢𝙚𝙣𝙩𝙨 Virat Kohli himself on his masterclass 👏<a href="https://x.com/hashtag/TATAIPL?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#TATAIPL</a> | <a href="https://x.com/hashtag/Final?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#Final</a> | <a href="https://x.com/hashtag/TheFinalLeap?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#TheFinalLeap</a> | <a href="https://x.com/hashtag/RCBvGT?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#RCBvGT</a> <a href="https://t.co/Prgy6La7iC">pic.twitter.com/Prgy6La7iC</a>&mdash; IndianPremierLeague (@IPL) <a href="https://x.com/IPL/status/2061165123130265795?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">May 31, 2026</a></blockquote> <script async src="https://platform.x.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script>

<h3>What separates RCB from others?</h3>RCB has come a long way since losing their first IPL final in 2011. With plenty of match winners and smart heads around, it took maturity for the defending champions to win it twice. Kohli explained the difference between this RCB and other teams and how they sealed the big moments. &nbsp;“We're respectful, don't poke any team. We have mature professionals, and experience shines through. Come the big situation, you need the big boys to step up. I know it's a chase, and they'll look to get me out early, but I knew we have a champion side that can chase it down with 3-4 overs to go,” he added.&nbsp;

"Stuff you dream of." Virat Kohli opens up on hitting the match-winning six to secure back-to-back IPL titles for RCB in a historic final against GT.

There is nothing Virat Kohli hasn’t done on a cricket field. Be it scoring runs, scoring them quickly, smashing 20-odd-ball fifties, winning countless tournaments, yet on Sunday (May 31) in Ahmedabad, he cherished his second IPL title with RCB like no other. The batting icon was at the centre of the run chase, scoring an unbeaten 75 and helping RCB complete a historic back-to-back title defence against the Gujarat Titans. Regardless of finishing fourth among the top run-getters this season, Kohli cherished the moment he sealed the game and history for his IPL franchise with a match-winning six. Kohli said it was the stuff of dreams and that he always wanted to hit the winning runs.

"Stuff you dream of." Virat Kohli opens up on hitting the match-winning six to secure back-to-back IPL titles for RCB in a historic final against GT.

‘Wanting to hit winning runs’: POTM Kohli reflects on retaining IPL crown for RCB with a six

Social media is buzzing with congratulatory posts after Virat Kohli and his IPL franchise, the Royal Challengers Bengaluru (RCB), beat the Gujarat Titans (GT) to win their second IPL crown in successive years. Kohli starred with the bat during the run chase, smashing an unbeaten 75 to help RCB beat GT by five wickets in the grand final in Ahmedabad on Sunday (May 31). Finishing the season with 675 runs, Kohli became the first player ever to register 600 or more runs in four consecutive editions. Having tasted success the last time, Kohli and RCB completed a double this year, becoming only the third IPL team after CSK (2010 and 2011) and MI (2019 and 2020) to win back-to-back IPL titles.

<blockquote class="twitter-tweet">𝙁𝙞𝙧𝙨𝙩 𝙩𝙞𝙢𝙚 𝙬𝙖𝙨 𝙨𝙤 𝙣𝙞𝙘𝙚, 𝙩𝙝𝙚𝙮 𝙝𝙖𝙙 𝙩𝙤 𝙙𝙤 𝙞𝙩 𝙩𝙬𝙞𝙘𝙚 ❤️<a href="https://x.com/RCBTweets?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@RCBTweets</a> are your <a href="https://x.com/hashtag/TATAIPL?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#TATAIPL</a> 2026 Champions 🏆<a href="https://x.com/hashtag/Final?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#Final</a> | <a href="https://x.com/hashtag/TheFinalLeap?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#TheFinalLeap</a> | <a href="https://x.com/hashtag/RCBvGT?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#RCBvGT</a> <a href="https://t.co/vAqXacHPju">pic.twitter.com/vAqXacHPju</a>&mdash; IndianPremierLeague (@IPL) <a href="https://x.com/IPL/status/2061152898822922438?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">May 31, 2026</a></blockquote> <script async src="https://platform.x.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script>

Also read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/rcb-win-ipl-2026-virat-kohli-25-ball-fastest-ipl-fifty-smashes-gt-to-secure-back-to-back-ipl-titles-gt-ahmedabad-royal-challengers-bengaluru-1780245784976">RCB Champions Again! Virat Kohli’s 25-ball fifty smashes GT to secure back-to-back IPL titles</a>&nbsp;After reducing GT to a moderate 155 for eight in the first innings, Kohli and his third opening partner this season, Venkatesh Iyer, smashed 62 runs for the first wicket inside the fifth over. While Iyer batted through pain after being hit on his right knee early in the first over, Kohli cleared gaps and scored boundaries for fun, with the pair whacking 37 off GT speedster Kagiso Rabada's first two overs. &nbsp;Wickets kept tumbling at the other end, with Rashid Khan picking two in his first over, including RCB captain Rajat Patidar, but Kohli stood his ground and minced runs at will. He completed a 25-ball fifty, his quickest IPL half-century ever, and alongside keeper-batter Jitesh Sharma at the other end, hit the winning runs to help RCB defend its IPL crown.&nbsp;Read more | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/ipl-2026-final-rcb-vs-gt-vaibhav-sooryavanshi-wins-orange-cap-as-shubman-gill-sai-sudharsan-fall-early-in-powerplay-1780241148046">IPL 2026 Final: Vaibhav Sooryavanshi wins Orange Cap as Gill, Sudharsan fall early in powerplay</a> &nbsp;Ecstasy and joy were all written on every RCB fan’s face, as the Bengaluru-based franchise proved why they were the best throughout the season.&nbsp; &nbsp;The internet couldn’t stay calm either, as congratulatory wishes kept pouring in every second. Check out some of the best X posts.

<blockquote class="twitter-tweet">One more year before a big auction! Congratulations RCB, this could be a dynasty!&mdash; Joy Bhattacharjya (@joybhattacharj) <a href="https://x.com/joybhattacharj/status/2061145166296252534?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">May 31, 2026</a></blockquote> <script async src="https://platform.x.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script>

<blockquote class="twitter-tweet">Big Congratulations RCB 💥💥💥💥💥 Back to Back 🏆 . Winning it in style . Domination continues. Well deserved 🏆 Chase Master kohli <a href="https://x.com/imVkohli?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@imVkohli</a> <a href="https://x.com/RCBTweets?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@RCBTweets</a> Superhit season like Dhurandhar 🤛 <a href="https://t.co/okR4vvYpn1">pic.twitter.com/okR4vvYpn1</a>&mdash; Harbhajan Turbanator (@harbhajan_singh) <a href="https://x.com/harbhajan_singh/status/2061154325490262123?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">May 31, 2026</a></blockquote> <script async src="https://platform.x.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script>

<blockquote class="twitter-tweet">Congratulations to <a href="https://x.com/RCBTweets?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@RCBTweets</a> on winning consecutive <a href="https://x.com/IPL?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@IPL</a> titles. One of the challenges in sport is that success changes the questions you have to answer. After winning once, the task is no longer proving you can do it, but proving you can sustain it. RCB met that challenge…&mdash; Sachin Tendulkar (@sachin_rt) <a href="https://x.com/sachin_rt/status/2061145608275304920?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">May 31, 2026</a></blockquote> <script async src="https://platform.x.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script>

<blockquote class="twitter-tweet">Waqt bhi inka, takht bhi inka … Kabhi trophy pe gumnami thi, Ab RCB ki manmaani hai.. Last year’s feeling might be hard to match for RCB fans, but this must feel special a different way. Holders of the IPL, holders of the WPL. They’ve kickstarted an era of domination. The…&mdash; Jatin Sapru (@jatinsapru) <a href="https://x.com/jatinsapru/status/2061150057819500964?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">May 31, 2026</a></blockquote> <script async src="https://platform.x.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script>

<blockquote class="twitter-tweet">RCB RCB….Congratulations Double back to back IPL Champions. Namma dodda Simhagulu roared loudly and made us all very proud. Very well done you beauties.&mdash; Vijay Mallya (@TheVijayMallya) <a href="https://x.com/TheVijayMallya/status/2061144862053838975?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">May 31, 2026</a></blockquote> <script async src="https://platform.x.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script>

<blockquote class="twitter-tweet">Rory doubles up at The Masters PSG doubles up Champs League RCB doubles up IPL 👏🏻👏🏻👏🏻👏🏻👏🏻👏🏻👏🏻👏🏻👏🏻👏🏻👏🏻👏🏻👏🏻&mdash; Kevin Pietersen🦏 (@KP24) <a href="https://x.com/KP24/status/2061143432706326967?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">May 31, 2026</a></blockquote> <script async src="https://platform.x.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script>

<blockquote class="twitter-tweet">Congratulations to <a href="https://x.com/RCBTweets?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@RCBTweets</a> on back to back <a href="https://x.com/IPL?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@IPL</a> titles. Truly a well constructed team for all situations 🏆 🏆 Very popular victory.&mdash; Ian Raphael Bishop (@irbishi) <a href="https://x.com/irbishi/status/2061147598187385195?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">May 31, 2026</a></blockquote> <script async src="https://platform.x.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script>

<blockquote class="twitter-tweet">RCB have played front runners with aplomb. Like a Federer at Wimbledon, they would have made news if they had lost. The best constructed team and now they have 2 in 2.&mdash; Harsha Bhogle (@bhogleharsha) <a href="https://x.com/bhogleharsha/status/2061140888668254588?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">May 31, 2026</a></blockquote> <script async src="https://platform.x.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script>

<blockquote class="twitter-tweet">Wow. Called it before the IPL… back to back champions !!! Congratulations to <a href="https://x.com/imVkohli?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@imVkohli</a>, <a href="https://x.com/rrjjt_01?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@rrjjt_01</a>, Mo Bobat, Andy Flower and the entire <a href="https://x.com/RCBTweets?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@RCBTweets</a> team. From day one, this looked like the most complete team in the competition. Consistent, clinical and deserving champions.…&mdash; Faf Du Plessis (@faf1307) <a href="https://x.com/faf1307/status/2061144677080862803?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">May 31, 2026</a></blockquote> <script async src="https://platform.x.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script>

<blockquote class="twitter-tweet">Ee Saala… 2x 🏆 Naamdu ♥️ <a href="https://x.com/hashtag/RCB?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#RCB</a> <a href="https://t.co/cU4do0tpVK">pic.twitter.com/cU4do0tpVK</a>&mdash; AB de Villiers (@ABdeVilliers17) <a href="https://x.com/ABdeVilliers17/status/2061147900814774670?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">May 31, 2026</a></blockquote> <script async src="https://platform.x.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script>

The internet has erupted after Virat Kohli's unbeaten 75 guided RCB to back-to-back IPL titles with a 5-wicket win over GT. Check out the best viral fan reactions!

Social media is buzzing with congratulatory posts after Virat Kohli and his IPL franchise, the Royal Challengers Bengaluru (RCB), beat the Gujarat Titans (GT) to win their second IPL crown in successive years. Kohli starred with the bat during the run chase, smashing an unbeaten 75 to help RCB beat GT by five wickets in the grand final in Ahmedabad on Sunday (May 31). Finishing the season with 675 runs, Kohli became the first player ever to register 600 or more runs in four consecutive editions. Having tasted success the last time, Kohli and RCB completed a double this year, becoming only the third IPL team after CSK (2010 and 2011) and MI (2019 and 2020) to win back-to-back IPL titles.

The internet has erupted after Virat Kohli's unbeaten 75 guided RCB to back-to-back IPL titles with a 5-wicket win over GT. Check out the best viral fan reactions!

Internet erupts after Virat Kohli, RCB triumph vs GT in IPL 2026 final| See reactions

From Sai Sudharsan to Heinrich Klaasen, here's a look at the top five batters with most runs in IPL 2026. This list also includes Shubman Gill, Virat Kohli and Vaibhav Sooryavanshi.

From Sai Sudharsan to Heinrich Klaasen, here's a look at the top five batters with most runs in IPL 2026. This list also includes Shubman Gill, Virat Kohli and Vaibhav Sooryavanshi.

Meet top 5 batters with most runs in IPL 2026

From Bhuvneshwar Kumar to Kagiso Rabada, here's a look at the top five bowlers with most wickets in IPL 2026. This list also includes Jofra Archer, Anshul Kamboj and Rashid Khan. 

From Bhuvneshwar Kumar to Kagiso Rabada, here's a look at the top five bowlers with most wickets in IPL 2026. This list also includes Jofra Archer, Anshul Kamboj and Rashid Khan.&nbsp;

Meet top 5 bowlers with most wickets in IPL 2026

RCB has done it; the defending champions have completed a double, winning back-to-back IPL titles. The Royal Challengers Bengaluru have defeated the Gujarat Titans by five wickets to win the 2026 edition on Sunday (May 31) in Ahmedabad. RCB icon Virat Kohli smashed his quickest-ever IPL fifty, as they chased a moderate 156 with two overs to spare. With this win, RCB has become the fourth IPL team after CSK, MI and KKR to win more than one title, and third after CSK and MI to do it successively.&nbsp;WATCH RCB's Winning Moment -

RCB captain Rajat Patidar won the toss and elected to bowl first in the season’s final. GT openers and Orange Cap contenders, Shubman Gill and Sai Sudharsan, failed on the biggest day, with the two departing early inside the Powerplay. Veteran Jos Buttler tried playing a helping hand but was outfoxed by Krunal Pandya, who dismissed him on 19. Washington Sundar was perhaps GT’s best batter on the day, showing composure and scoring on bad balls, something all remaining batters failed to do.&nbsp;Also read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/ipl-2026-final-rcb-vs-gt-vaibhav-sooryavanshi-wins-orange-cap-as-shubman-gill-sai-sudharsan-fall-early-in-powerplay-1780241148046">IPL 2026 Final: Vaibhav Sooryavanshi wins Orange Cap as Gill, Sudharsan fall early in powerplay</a> &nbsp;Seamer Arshad Khan tried increasing the scoring rate but fell prey to a bouncer from Josh Hazlewood, who had earlier removed Gill on just 10 with his second ball of this final. Rasikh Salam bowled brilliantly, picking three wickets, while Hazlewood and IPL icon Bhuvneshwar Kumar returned with two each. Meanwhile, Washington’s lone hand helped GT post a fighting first-inning total of 155 for eight in 20 overs.

<blockquote class="twitter-tweet">How good has Rasikh Dar been this season? 🤌 Two impressive scalps to halt <a href="https://x.com/hashtag/GT?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#GT</a> ✌️ Updates ▶️ <a href="https://t.co/Yz6K3q6w0X">https://t.co/Yz6K3q6w0X</a><a href="https://x.com/hashtag/TATAIPL?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#TATAIPL</a> | <a href="https://x.com/hashtag/Final?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#Final</a> | <a href="https://x.com/hashtag/TheFinalLeap?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#TheFinalLeap</a> | <a href="https://x.com/hashtag/RCBvGT?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#RCBvGT</a> <a href="https://t.co/FHzCg1UGSv">pic.twitter.com/FHzCg1UGSv</a>&mdash; IndianPremierLeague (@IPL) <a href="https://x.com/IPL/status/2061109496551010380?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">May 31, 2026</a></blockquote> <script async src="https://platform.x.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script>

<h3>Virat's magic brings RCB gold</h3>RCB openers, Virat Kohli and Venkatesh Iyer, broke GT’s back with a 62-run stand for the first wicket inside the fifth over. The two clobbered nine fours and three sixes between them, including hitting 37 off Kagiso Rabada’s first two overs. While Iyer struggled after a blow to his knee off Mohammed Siraj’s ripper in the first over, Kohli milked fours for fun, bringing the required runs under 100.&nbsp; &nbsp;Rabada returned to remove Devdutt Padikkal on just one, with Arshad completing a tight catch at the third man. Rashid Khan then turned the game on its head with two wickets in his first over, including those of Patidar and Krunal Pandya.

<blockquote class="twitter-tweet">Out of absolutely nowhere! 🌪️ Are we seeing a grand comeback in the grand finale? 😬 Updates ▶️ <a href="https://t.co/Yz6K3q6w0X">https://t.co/Yz6K3q6w0X</a><a href="https://x.com/hashtag/TATAIPL?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#TATAIPL</a> | <a href="https://x.com/hashtag/Final?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#Final</a> | <a href="https://x.com/hashtag/TheFinalLeap?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#TheFinalLeap</a> | <a href="https://x.com/hashtag/RCBvGT?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#RCBvGT</a> | <a href="https://x.com/gujarat_titans?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@gujarat_titans</a> | <a href="https://x.com/rashidkhan_19?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@rashidkhan_19</a> <a href="https://t.co/C3qmvcGs4A">pic.twitter.com/C3qmvcGs4A</a>&mdash; IndianPremierLeague (@IPL) <a href="https://x.com/IPL/status/2061134231032754523?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">May 31, 2026</a></blockquote> <script async src="https://platform.x.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script>

Despite GT crawling its way back into the final, Kohli completed his quickest IPL fifty in 25 balls.

<blockquote class="twitter-tweet">How many times have we seen this 🤩 Virat Kohli in his element 🔥 Updates ▶️ <a href="https://t.co/Yz6K3q6w0X">https://t.co/Yz6K3q6w0X</a><a href="https://x.com/hashtag/TATAIPL?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#TATAIPL</a> | <a href="https://x.com/hashtag/Final?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#Final</a> | <a href="https://x.com/hashtag/TheFinalLeap?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#TheFinalLeap</a> | <a href="https://x.com/hashtag/RCBvGT?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#RCBvGT</a> <a href="https://t.co/dE3LEi8NQT">pic.twitter.com/dE3LEi8NQT</a>&mdash; IndianPremierLeague (@IPL) <a href="https://x.com/IPL/status/2061137282397319555?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">May 31, 2026</a></blockquote> <script async src="https://platform.x.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script>

Overs later, Kohli survived a dismissal, with replays showing the ball touched the ground after Gill caught him at mid off. That, however, was the moment he and millions of his and RCB fans realised their dream of winning back-to-back IPL titles, and he did that in style.&nbsp;&nbsp;Kohli sealed the moment and a piece of history with an overhead six off Arshad Khan to win the match and IPL 2026 for the Royal Challengers Bengaluru.&nbsp;

RCB are back-to-back champions! Virat Kohli smashed a sensational 25-ball fifty as Royal Challengers Bengaluru defeated Gujarat Titans in the IPL 2026 final.

RCB has done it; the defending champions have completed a double, winning back-to-back IPL titles. The Royal Challengers Bengaluru have defeated the Gujarat Titans by five wickets to win the 2026 edition on Sunday (May 31) in Ahmedabad. RCB icon Virat Kohli smashed his quickest-ever IPL fifty, as they chased a moderate 156 with two overs to spare. With this win, RCB has become the fourth IPL team after CSK, MI and KKR to win more than one title, and third after CSK and MI to do it successively. WATCH RCB's Winning Moment -

RCB are back-to-back champions! Virat Kohli smashed a sensational 25-ball fifty as Royal Challengers Bengaluru defeated Gujarat Titans in the IPL 2026 final.

RCB Champions Again! Virat Kohli’s 25-ball fifty smashes GT to secure back-to-back IPL titles

15-year-old Vaibhav Sooryavanshi has won his maiden IPL Orange Cap after the two closest contenders from Gujarat Titans—captain Shubman Gill and his opening partner Sai Sudharsan—fell early inside the Powerplay during the ongoing IPL 2026 final. Vaibhav finished IPL 2026 with 776 runs, and with the two star GT batters departing on 10 (Gill) and 12 (Sai) respectively, he remains at the top of the list of batters with the most runs this season. Even though only RCB icon Virat Kohli stands a mathematical chance of topping Vaibhav’s tally since he is the only one remaining, Kohli must score 176 runs in the final to do so.<h3>Most Runs in IPL 2026</h3><ul><li>Vaibhav Sooryavanshi (RR) - 776 runs in 16 matches</li><li>Shubman Gill (GT) - 732 runs in 16 matches</li><li>Sai Sudharsan (GT) - 722 runs in 17 matches</li></ul>Vaibhav made IPL 2026 all about himself. The left-handed opener broke records for fun and hammered bowlers to all parts of the grounds. Regardless of the opposition, his strategy remained unhinged, smashing everyone from the word go. What’s more mesmerising than his runs tally in only his second IPL season is that the teenage sensation did so at an unbelievable strike rate of 237.31. Never before in 18 years of this tournament’s history has a player scored 500 runs in a season, striking at an excess of 230.&nbsp;Also read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/ruturaj-gaikwad-replaces-injured-riyan-parag-in-india-a-squad-for-t20i-tri-series-sri-lanka-afghanistan-vaibhav-sooryavanshi-tilak-varma-captain-1780233763006">Ruturaj Gaikwad replaces injured Riyan Parag in India-A squad for T20I tri-series</a> &nbsp;The left-handed opener made headlines worldwide for his array of strokeplay and record-breaking spree. Most significantly, he broke Chris Gayle’s 14-year record of most sixes hit in an IPL season. While Gayle clobbered a whopping 59 during the 2012 edition, Vaibhav, just 15, smoked 72, 13 more than Gayle’s tally, in this edition alone. He also registered the most runs scored by a teenager in an IPL season. &nbsp;During the fag end of the tournament, Vaibhav also smashed two quickfire 90s, one against SunRisers Hyderabad (97 off 29 balls) and the other against the finalists, GT (96 off 27 balls).<h3>Gill and Sai fail in IPL 2026 final</h3>After RCB won the toss and elected to bowl first, GT's openers departed early inside the Powerplay in a massive blow to the batting side. Entering this contest as the second and third-ranked batters on the list of most run getters this season, Gill and Sai failed on the day their team needed them the most. &nbsp;While Gill was the first one to depart, playing early off RCB quick Josh Hazlewood’s good length delivery (on 10) before IPL legend Bhuvneshwar Kumar removed Sudharsan, caught on 12. GT lost Jos Buttler and Nishant Sindhu, with their scorecard reading 99 for five inside 15 overs.&nbsp;&nbsp;WATCH WICKETS -

<blockquote class="twitter-tweet">2️⃣ massive wickets. 1️⃣ dream start! 💥 What a start for <a href="https://x.com/hashtag/RCB?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#RCB</a> in Ahmedabad 🔥 Updates ▶️ <a href="https://t.co/Yz6K3q6w0X">https://t.co/Yz6K3q6w0X</a><a href="https://x.com/hashtag/TATAIPL?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#TATAIPL</a> | <a href="https://x.com/hashtag/Final?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#Final</a> | <a href="https://x.com/hashtag/TheFinalLeap?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#TheFinalLeap</a> | <a href="https://x.com/hashtag/RCBvGT?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#RCBvGT</a> | <a href="https://x.com/RCBTweets?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@RCBTweets</a> <a href="https://t.co/loIvgOBVc4">pic.twitter.com/loIvgOBVc4</a>&mdash; IndianPremierLeague (@IPL) <a href="https://x.com/IPL/status/2061092684975231436?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">May 31, 2026</a></blockquote> <script async src="https://platform.x.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script>

At just 15 years old, Rajasthan Royals prodigy Vaibhav Sooryavanshi has won the IPL 2026 Orange Cap after GT openers Shubman Gill and Sai Sudharsan fell early in the final.

15-year-old Vaibhav Sooryavanshi has won his maiden IPL Orange Cap after the two closest contenders from Gujarat Titans—captain Shubman Gill and his opening partner Sai Sudharsan—fell early inside the Powerplay during the ongoing IPL 2026 final. Vaibhav finished IPL 2026 with 776 runs, and with the two star GT batters departing on 10 (Gill) and 12 (Sai) respectively, he remains at the top of the list of batters with the most runs this season. Even though only RCB icon Virat Kohli stands a mathematical chance of topping Vaibhav’s tally since he is the only one remaining, Kohli must score 176 runs in the final to do so. Most Runs in IPL 2026 Vaibhav Sooryavanshi (RR) - 776 runs in 16 matches Shubman Gill (GT) - 732 runs in 16 matches Sai Sudharsan (GT) - 722 runs in 17 matches Vaibhav made IPL 2026 all about himself. The left-handed opener broke records for fun and hammered bowlers to all parts of the grounds. Regardless of the opposition, his strategy remained unhinged, smashing everyone from the word go. What’s more mesmerising than his runs tally in only his second IPL season is that the teenage sensation did so at an unbelievable strike rate of 237.31. Never before in 18 years of this tournament’s history has a player scored 500 runs in a season, striking at an excess of 230. Also read | Ruturaj Gaikwad replaces injured Riyan Parag in India-A squad for T20I tri-series The left-handed opener made headlines worldwide for his array of strokeplay and record-breaking spree. Most significantly, he broke Chris Gayle’s 14-year record of most sixes hit in an IPL season. While Gayle clobbered a whopping 59 during the 2012 edition, Vaibhav, just 15, smoked 72, 13 more than Gayle’s tally, in this edition alone. He also registered the most runs scored by a teenager in an IPL season. During the fag end of the tournament, Vaibhav also smashed two quickfire 90s, one against SunRisers Hyderabad (97 off 29 balls) and the other against the finalists, GT (96 off 27 balls). Gill and Sai fail in IPL 2026 final After RCB won the toss and elected to bowl first, GT's openers departed early inside the Powerplay in a massive blow to the batting side. Entering this contest as the second and third-ranked batters on the list of most run getters this season, Gill and Sai failed on the day their team needed them the most. While Gill was the first one to depart, playing early off RCB quick Josh Hazlewood’s good length delivery (on 10) before IPL legend Bhuvneshwar Kumar removed Sudharsan, caught on 12. GT lost Jos Buttler and Nishant Sindhu, with their scorecard reading 99 for five inside 15 overs. WATCH WICKETS -

At just 15 years old, Rajasthan Royals prodigy Vaibhav Sooryavanshi has won the IPL 2026 Orange Cap after GT openers Shubman Gill and Sai Sudharsan fell early in the final.

IPL 2026 Final: Vaibhav Sooryavanshi wins Orange Cap as Gill, Sudharsan fall early in powerplay

The RCB captain Rajat Patidar has won the toss and elected to bowl first in the IPL 2026 final in Ahmedabad on Sunday (May 31). Defending champions RCB face former one-time winner and 2023 runners-up, the Gujarat Titans, in this summit clash at the Narendra Modi Cricket Stadium. RCB played last year’s final at the same venue, beating Punjab Kings. While RCB is unchanged for their title defence, GT has made just one change to their playing XI.&nbsp;

<blockquote class="twitter-tweet">🚨 Toss Update from the FINAL 🚨<a href="https://x.com/RCBTweets?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@RCBTweets</a> have won the toss &amp; will bowl first against <a href="https://x.com/gujarat_titans?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@gujarat_titans</a> in Ahmedabad. Updates ▶️ <a href="https://t.co/Yz6K3q6w0X">https://t.co/Yz6K3q6w0X</a><a href="https://x.com/hashtag/TATAIPL?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#TATAIPL</a> | <a href="https://x.com/hashtag/Final?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#Final</a> | <a href="https://x.com/hashtag/TheFinalLeap?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#TheFinalLeap</a> | <a href="https://x.com/hashtag/RCBvGT?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#RCBvGT</a> <a href="https://t.co/kgrF0LJ0gQ">pic.twitter.com/kgrF0LJ0gQ</a>&mdash; IndianPremierLeague (@IPL) <a href="https://x.com/IPL/status/2061079295037260075?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">May 31, 2026</a></blockquote> <script async src="https://platform.x.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script>

<h3>Check out the two teams –</h3>RCB - Virat Kohli, Devdutt Padikkal, Rajat Patidar (captain), Krunal Pandya, Tim David, Jitesh Sharma (wk), Romario Shepherd, Bhuvneshwar Kumar, Josh Hazlewood, Jacob Duffy and Rasikh Salam &nbsp;RCB sub options - Venkatesh Iyer, Kanishk Chohan, Swapnil Singh, Abhinandan Singh, Jordan Cox &nbsp;GT - Shubman Gill (captain), Sai Sudharsan, Jos Buttler (wk), Nishant Sindhu, Jason Holder, Washington Sundar, Rahul Tewatia, Rashid Khan, Kagiso Rabada, Arshad Khan and Mohammed Siraj &nbsp;GT sub options - Prasidh Krishna, Glenn Phillips, Anuj Rawat, Kumar Kushagra, Sai Kishore<h3>Here’s what the two captains said,</h3>Rajat Patidar, RCB captain, said, “We'll bowl first. (On the surface) It's a pretty good wicket. The ball will come nicely on the bat, but to be honest, it will not change in the 40 overs. So we'll try to get them as early as possible. &nbsp;“(How you hold your nerve?) That's important, to keep yourself in the present, not to be too much far ahead. Let's control the controllables, that's it. (Team combination) The same team.”&nbsp; &nbsp;Shubman Gill, GT captain, said, “(Would you have fielded as well?) No, we would have batted first, honestly. It looks like a good wicket and final game, so hopefully, have some runs on the board and put them under pressure.&nbsp; &nbsp;“(How are you feeling?) Feeling, I think the boys are ready to go. We are feeling fresh, and we are ready. We've got one change. Arshad (Khan) comes back in for Sai (Kishore).”&nbsp;Meanwhile, per records, teams batting first have won 10 IPL finals, and those chasing have won eight times.

IPL 2026 Final Toss Update: RCB skipper Rajat Patidar wins the toss and chooses to bowl first against the Gujarat Titans in Ahmedabad. Check out the official playing XIs.

The RCB captain Rajat Patidar has won the toss and elected to bowl first in the IPL 2026 final in Ahmedabad on Sunday (May 31). Defending champions RCB face former one-time winner and 2023 runners-up, the Gujarat Titans, in this summit clash at the Narendra Modi Cricket Stadium. RCB played last year’s final at the same venue, beating Punjab Kings. While RCB is unchanged for their title defence, GT has made just one change to their playing XI.

IPL 2026 Final Toss Update: RCB skipper Rajat Patidar wins the toss and chooses to bowl first against the Gujarat Titans in Ahmedabad. Check out the official playing XIs.

IPL 2026 Final: Rajat Patidar wins toss and elects to bowl; RCB unchanged, GT make one

Opening batter Ruturaj Gaikwad has replaced injured Riyan Parag in the India-A squad for the ODI tri-series involving the A teams of hosts Sri Lanka and Afghanistan. Parag, who led his IPL franchise, the Rajasthan Royals, to the playoffs this season, is out with a hamstring injury he suffered midway through the tournament. He also missed a few matches due to his lingering hamstring issue. The BCCI made an official statement on Sunday (May 31).&nbsp;&nbsp;Parag was named the vice-captain for the tri-series and will now undergo rehabilitation at BCCI’s Centre of Excellence (CoE) in Bengaluru. Gaikwad, however, replaces him as the team’s vice-captain.&nbsp;Also read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/rcb-going-in-as-favourites-ex-india-star-ahead-of-ipl-2026-final-1780224301483">'RCB going in as favourites': Ex-India star ahead of IPL 2026 final</a><h3>Check out the updated India-A squad –</h3>Tilak Varma (captain), Ruturaj Gaikwad (vice-captain), Priyansh Arya, Vaibhav Sooryavanshi, Ayush Badoni, Nishant Sindhu, Suryansh Shedge, Prabhsimran Singh, Kumar Kushagra, Vipraj Nigam, Yash Thakur, Yudhvir Singh, Anshul Kamboj, Arshad Khan and Anukul Roy&nbsp;The tri-series gets underway on June 9 at the Rangiri Dambulla International Stadium, with each team facing each other twice. The final will take place on June 21.<h3>Sooryavanshi to hog all the limelight</h3>After demolishing most batting records during the ongoing IPL edition, RR opener Sooryavanshi created headlines all over. Not only did he break Chris Gayle’s long-standing record of most sixes hit in a season, surpassing his 59-sixes tally, but he also finished with the most runs scored in this edition. Gujarat Titans (GT) openers Shubman Gill and Sai Sudharsan are, however, close to surpassing Vaibhav's run tally (776 runs). &nbsp;Punjab Kings' (PBKS ) opening batting pair of opener Prabhsimran Singh and Priyansh Arya has made the squad, with GT batter Nishant Sindhu also finding a place in the 15-man team. Fellow PBKS middle-order batter Suryansh Shedge, alongside Delhi Capitals duo of Ayush Badoni and Vipraj Nigam, has been picked.&nbsp; &nbsp;Gaikwad’s CSK teammate and seamer Anshul Kamboj will lead the pace attack.&nbsp;

Ruturaj Gaikwad has been named vice-captain of the India A squad, replacing the injured Riyan Parag for the upcoming tri-series in Sri Lanka. Check the updated squad.

Opening batter Ruturaj Gaikwad has replaced injured Riyan Parag in the India-A squad for the ODI tri-series involving the A teams of hosts Sri Lanka and Afghanistan. Parag, who led his IPL franchise, the Rajasthan Royals, to the playoffs this season, is out with a hamstring injury he suffered midway through the tournament. He also missed a few matches due to his lingering hamstring issue. The BCCI made an official statement on Sunday (May 31). Parag was named the vice-captain for the tri-series and will now undergo rehabilitation at BCCI’s Centre of Excellence (CoE) in Bengaluru. Gaikwad, however, replaces him as the team’s vice-captain. Also read | 'RCB going in as favourites': Ex-India star ahead of IPL 2026 final Check out the updated India-A squad – Tilak Varma (captain), Ruturaj Gaikwad (vice-captain), Priyansh Arya, Vaibhav Sooryavanshi, Ayush Badoni, Nishant Sindhu, Suryansh Shedge, Prabhsimran Singh, Kumar Kushagra, Vipraj Nigam, Yash Thakur, Yudhvir Singh, Anshul Kamboj, Arshad Khan and Anukul Roy The tri-series gets underway on June 9 at the Rangiri Dambulla International Stadium, with each team facing each other twice. The final will take place on June 21. Sooryavanshi to hog all the limelight After demolishing most batting records during the ongoing IPL edition, RR opener Sooryavanshi created headlines all over. Not only did he break Chris Gayle’s long-standing record of most sixes hit in a season, surpassing his 59-sixes tally, but he also finished with the most runs scored in this edition. Gujarat Titans (GT) openers Shubman Gill and Sai Sudharsan are, however, close to surpassing Vaibhav's run tally (776 runs). Punjab Kings' (PBKS ) opening batting pair of opener Prabhsimran Singh and Priyansh Arya has made the squad, with GT batter Nishant Sindhu also finding a place in the 15-man team. Fellow PBKS middle-order batter Suryansh Shedge, alongside Delhi Capitals duo of Ayush Badoni and Vipraj Nigam, has been picked. Gaikwad’s CSK teammate and seamer Anshul Kamboj will lead the pace attack.

Ruturaj Gaikwad has been named vice-captain of the India A squad, replacing the injured Riyan Parag for the upcoming tri-series in Sri Lanka. Check the updated squad.

Ruturaj Gaikwad replaces injured Riyan Parag in India-A squad for ODI tri-series

Former India spinner Ravichandran Ashwin has backed Royal Challengers Bengaluru (RCB) as the favourites heading into the IPL 2026 final, even though Gujarat Titans (GT) will enjoy the advantage of playing at their home venue in Ahmedabad. The defending champions are set to face GT in Sunday’s title clash, with both teams aiming to secure their second IPL trophy.&nbsp;Ashwin pointed to RCB’s fearless and aggressive style of play as a major reason behind their success this season and also lauded experienced campaigners Bhuvneshwar Kumar and Krunal Pandya for their valuable contributions in crucial moments. According to Ashwin, GT’s familiarity with home conditions remains their biggest advantage, but overall, RCB appear to be the stronger and more balanced side.&nbsp;Also Read - <a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/who-is-kushal-bhurtel-nepal-cricketer-recreates-yuvraj-singh-like-six-hitting-feat-vs-china-1780216450635">Who is Kushal Bhurtel? Nepal batter recreates Yuvraj Singh-like six-hitting feat</a>&nbsp;He stressed that RCB should continue playing the attacking style of cricket that has brought them success throughout the tournament, irrespective of whether they bat or bowl first.&nbsp;&nbsp;"The fact that GT are playing at their home ground, and that they've dominated there and made it a fortress, is something that's really going to give them that extra fillip going into the final. The two teams have very contrasting approaches. RCB have been willing to take that extra risk. They have a team with a few fighters in Bhuvneshwar Kumar and Krunal Pandya, who have turned up the heat this season. GT's home ground and their familiarity with those conditions are the last piece of the puzzle standing between RCB and a second title. For RCB, it doesn't matter whether they bat or bowl first, it is their final to lose. They are going in as the favourites. Whatever they do, they must not regress or play any less attacking cricket than they have throughout the season," Ashwin said on JioHotstar.&nbsp;While RCB are looking to successfully defend the IPL title they won last season, Gujarat Titans will be chasing their second championship after their memorable triumph in 2022.&nbsp;With inputs from agencies

Former India player Ravichandran Ashwin has backed Royal Challengers Bengaluru as strong favourites for the IPL 2026 final, stating that only their own mistakes can cost them the title.

Former India spinner Ravichandran Ashwin has backed Royal Challengers Bengaluru (RCB) as the favourites heading into the IPL 2026 final, even though Gujarat Titans (GT) will enjoy the advantage of playing at their home venue in Ahmedabad. The defending champions are set to face GT in Sunday’s title clash, with both teams aiming to secure their second IPL trophy. Ashwin pointed to RCB’s fearless and aggressive style of play as a major reason behind their success this season and also lauded experienced campaigners Bhuvneshwar Kumar and Krunal Pandya for their valuable contributions in crucial moments. According to Ashwin, GT’s familiarity with home conditions remains their biggest advantage, but overall, RCB appear to be the stronger and more balanced side. Also Read - Who is Kushal Bhurtel? Nepal batter recreates Yuvraj Singh-like six-hitting feat He stressed that RCB should continue playing the attacking style of cricket that has brought them success throughout the tournament, irrespective of whether they bat or bowl first. "The fact that GT are playing at their home ground, and that they've dominated there and made it a fortress, is something that's really going to give them that extra fillip going into the final. The two teams have very contrasting approaches. RCB have been willing to take that extra risk. They have a team with a few fighters in Bhuvneshwar Kumar and Krunal Pandya, who have turned up the heat this season. GT's home ground and their familiarity with those conditions are the last piece of the puzzle standing between RCB and a second title. For RCB, it doesn't matter whether they bat or bowl first, it is their final to lose. They are going in as the favourites. Whatever they do, they must not regress or play any less attacking cricket than they have throughout the season," Ashwin said on JioHotstar. While RCB are looking to successfully defend the IPL title they won last season, Gujarat Titans will be chasing their second championship after their memorable triumph in 2022. With inputs from agencies

Former India player Ravichandran Ashwin has backed Royal Challengers Bengaluru as strong favorites for the IPL 2026 final, stating that only their own mistakes can cost them the title.

'RCB going in as favourites': Ex-India star ahead of IPL 2026 final

From Sai Sudharsan to Ruturaj Gaikwad, here's a look at the top five batters fastest to 2000 runs in Indian Premier League. This list also includes Chris Gayle, Shaun Marsh and Heinrich Klaasen

From Sai Sudharsan to Ruturaj Gaikwad, here's a look at the top five batters fastest to 2000 runs in Indian Premier League. This list also includes Chris Gayle, Shaun Marsh and Heinrich Klaasen

Meet top 5 batters fastest to 2000 IPL runs

Nepal opener Kushal Bhurtel etched his name into the record books during the Asian Games Men’s T20I Qualifier 2026 with a sensational century against China and powered his team to a massive 313/2, one of the highest totals ever recorded in men’s T20 international cricket. Bhurtel’s innings was highlighted by a remarkable sequence in which he struck six consecutive sixes in a single over, equalling one of the format’s most iconic achievements first accomplished by Yuvraj Singh during the 2007 T20 World Cup.<h3>A devastating display at the top</h3>After Nepal lost an early wicket, Bhurtel took complete control of the innings with an aggressive counterattack and scored 129 runs from only 43 balls, smashing five fours and 16 sixes to dismantle the Chinese bowling attack.&nbsp;His attacking innings laid the foundation for Nepal’s record-breaking score, with unbeaten efforts from Kushal Malla (85 off 47) and Rohit Paudel (69 off 21) keeping the momentum going as they surged past 300.&nbsp;Also Read - <a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/what-happens-if-rain-plays-spoilsport-in-gt-vs-rcb-ipl-2026-final-1780214469450">What happens if rain plays spoilsport in GT vs RCB IPL 2026 Final?</a><h3>Exclusive six-sixes club</h3>One of the defining moments of Bhurtel’s innings came against bowler Chen Zhuo Yue, whom he dispatched for six consecutive maximums. The over ultimately cost 37 runs, including a wide, making it the second-most expensive over in international cricket history.&nbsp;With that feat, Bhurtel became only the fifth batter in men’s T20I cricket to clear the boundary six times in succession in a single over.&nbsp;<h3>Batters to hit six consecutive sixes in an over in T20Is</h3>

<figure class="table"><table><tbody><tr><td>Name</td><td>Year</td><td>Team</td><td>Opponent</td><td>Runs In An Over</td></tr><tr><td>Yuvraj Singh</td><td>2007</td><td>India</td><td>England</td><td>36 (6,6,6,6,6,6)</td></tr><tr><td>Kieron Pollard</td><td>2021</td><td>West Indies</td><td>Sri Lanka</td><td>36 (6,6,6,6,6,6)</td></tr><tr><td>Dipendra Singh Airee</td><td>2024</td><td>Nepal</td><td>Qatar</td><td>36 (6,6,6,6,6,6)</td></tr><tr><td>Manan Bashir</td><td>2025</td><td>Bulgaria</td><td>Gibraltar</td><td>36 (6,6,6,6,6,6)</td></tr><tr><td>Kushal Bhurtel</td><td>2026</td><td>Nepal</td><td>China</td><td>37 (6,6,6,6,6,wd,6)</td></tr></tbody></table></figure>

<h3>Who is Kushal Bhurtel?</h3>Bhurtel first came into the spotlight during Nepal’s run to the quarter-finals of the 2016 Under-19 Cricket World Cup. After making his T20I debut in 2021, he made an immediate impact with four half-centuries in his first five matches.&nbsp;A year later, he registered his maiden T20I hundred, an unbeaten century against the Philippines, becoming only the third Nepal batter to reach the landmark.&nbsp;His ODI career also got off to a strong start, highlighted by a match-winning performance against the United States.&nbsp;Over recent years, Bhurtel has established himself as one of Nepal’s most important players. He &nbsp;also featured in the 2023 Cricket World Cup Qualifier and represented the country at the 2024 T20 World Cup.&nbsp;Although primarily recognised for his aggressive batting, he has also made useful contributions with his leg-spin bowling. One of his standout all-round displays came against the South Africa at the T20 World Cup, where his bowling helped Nepal remain competitive deep into the match.&nbsp;While Bhurtel has built his reputation largely through domestic cricket and appearances in the Nepal Premier League, he has yet to secure a regular place in major overseas franchise competitions.&nbsp;Given his fearless batting style, ability to bowl leg-spin and strong fielding skills, performances such as his record-breaking knock against China are likely to enhance his prospects of attracting interest from franchise teams around the world.

Kushal Bhurtel produced a record-breaking knock in the 2026 Asian Games Men’s T20I Qualifier against China, scoring 129 off just 43 balls. He also joined an elite club by hitting six consecutive sixes in a single over, helping Nepal post a massive total of 313/2.

Nepal opener Kushal Bhurtel etched his name into the record books during the Asian Games Men’s T20I Qualifier 2026 with a sensational century against China and powered his team to a massive 313/2, one of the highest totals ever recorded in men’s T20 international cricket. Bhurtel’s innings was highlighted by a remarkable sequence in which he struck six consecutive sixes in a single over, equalling one of the format’s most iconic achievements first accomplished by Yuvraj Singh during the 2007 T20 World Cup. A devastating display at the top After Nepal lost an early wicket, Bhurtel took complete control of the innings with an aggressive counterattack and scored 129 runs from only 43 balls, smashing five fours and 16 sixes to dismantle the Chinese bowling attack. His attacking innings laid the foundation for Nepal’s record-breaking score, with unbeaten efforts from Kushal Malla (85 off 47) and Rohit Paudel (69 off 21) keeping the momentum going as they surged past 300. Also Read - What happens if rain plays spoilsport in GT vs RCB IPL 2026 Final? Exclusive six-sixes club One of the defining moments of Bhurtel’s innings came against bowler Chen Zhuo Yue, whom he dispatched for six consecutive maximums. The over ultimately cost 37 runs, including a wide, making it the second-most expensive over in international cricket history. With that feat, Bhurtel became only the fifth batter in men’s T20I cricket to clear the boundary six times in succession in a single over. Batters to hit six consecutive sixes in an over in T20Is

Kushal Bhurtel produced a record-breaking knock in the 2026 Asian Games Men’s T20I Qualifier against China, scoring 129 off just 43 balls. He also joined an elite club by hitting six consecutive sixes in a single over, helping Nepal post a massive total of 313/2.

Who is Kushal Bhurtel? Nepal cricketer recreates Yuvraj Singh-like six-hitting feat vs China

The IPL 2026 final is set to deliver a thrilling contest as defending champions Royal Challengers Bengaluru take on Gujarat Titans at Ahmedabad’s Narendra Modi Stadium on Sunday (May 31). RCB secured their place in the title clash with a commanding win over Gujarat Titans in Qualifier 1, while GT bounced back strongly in Qualifier 2, defeating Rajasthan Royals to earn another chance at the championship.<h3>Will rain play spoilsport in Ahmedabad?</h3>Weather forecasts offer good news for fans, as conditions in Ahmedabad are expected to remain favourable, with current predictions suggesting little risk of significant rain disrupting the final.&nbsp;Interestingly, Gujarat Titans experienced travel disruptions after their Qualifier 2 victory, as the team’s scheduled departure from Chandigarh on Saturday was delayed due to heavy rainfall across parts of Punjab and Rajasthan, which affected flight operations.&nbsp;&nbsp;Also Read - <a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/psg-retain-champions-league-crown-after-crushing-arsenal-s-hopes-1780211847187">PSG retain Champions League crown after crushing Arsenal’s hopes</a><h3>Is there a reserve day for IPL 2026 Final?</h3>Yes, the IPL final has a designated reserve day. Unlike Qualifier 1, the Eliminator and Qualifier 2, the championship match can be completed on an additional day if adverse weather prevents a result on Sunday. If rain halts proceedings, the match will continue on Monday (June 1). Importantly, play will not begin again from the start. Instead:<ul><li>The match will resume from the exact point where it was stopped</li><li>All scores and wickets will carry forward</li><li>The remaining overs will be completed as scheduled</li></ul>This rule ensures every effort is made to decide the title on the field rather than through technicalities.&nbsp;Also Read - <a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/violence-erupts-as-psg-celebrates-champions-league-win-against-arsenal-416-people-arrested-1780203004687">Violence erupts in Paris as PSG celebrates Champions League win against Arsenal</a><h3>What happens if the reserve day is also washed out?</h3>If bad weather prevents the match from being completed on both the scheduled day and the reserve day, IPL regulations provide a clear resolution.&nbsp;In such a scenario, Royal Challengers Bengaluru would be crowned IPL 2026 champions.The deciding factor would be their superior finish in the league-stage standings, which gives them the advantage if the final cannot produce a result.&nbsp;

If weather prevents a result in the IPL 2026 final on both the scheduled day and reserve day, RCB will lift the trophy due to their superior league-stage position.

The IPL 2026 final is set to deliver a thrilling contest as defending champions Royal Challengers Bengaluru take on Gujarat Titans at Ahmedabad’s Narendra Modi Stadium on Sunday (May 31). RCB secured their place in the title clash with a commanding win over Gujarat Titans in Qualifier 1, while GT bounced back strongly in Qualifier 2, defeating Rajasthan Royals to earn another chance at the championship. Will rain play spoilsport in Ahmedabad? Weather forecasts offer good news for fans, as conditions in Ahmedabad are expected to remain favourable, with current predictions suggesting little risk of significant rain disrupting the final. Interestingly, Gujarat Titans experienced travel disruptions after their Qualifier 2 victory, as the team’s scheduled departure from Chandigarh on Saturday was delayed due to heavy rainfall across parts of Punjab and Rajasthan, which affected flight operations. Also Read - PSG retain Champions League crown after crushing Arsenal’s hopes Is there a reserve day for IPL 2026 Final? Yes, the IPL final has a designated reserve day. Unlike Qualifier 1, the Eliminator and Qualifier 2, the championship match can be completed on an additional day if adverse weather prevents a result on Sunday. If rain halts proceedings, the match will continue on Monday (June 1). Importantly, play will not begin again from the start. Instead: The match will resume from the exact point where it was stopped All scores and wickets will carry forward The remaining overs will be completed as scheduled This rule ensures every effort is made to decide the title on the field rather than through technicalities. Also Read - Violence erupts in Paris as PSG celebrates Champions League win against Arsenal What happens if the reserve day is also washed out? If bad weather prevents the match from being completed on both the scheduled day and the reserve day, IPL regulations provide a clear resolution. In such a scenario, Royal Challengers Bengaluru would be crowned IPL 2026 champions. The deciding factor would be their superior finish in the league-stage standings, which gives them the advantage if the final cannot produce a result.

If weather prevents a result in the IPL 2026 final on both the scheduled day and reserve day, RCB will lift the trophy due to their superior league-stage position.

What happens if rain plays spoilsport in GT vs RCB IPL 2026 Final?

Ahead of the IPL 2026 final against defending champions Royal Challengers Bengaluru on Sunday, Shubman Gill reflected on the physical and mental challenges of a packed tournament schedule. Speaking at the pre-match press conference on Saturday, the Gujarat Titans captain stressed that title-deciding matches are ultimately won through mental strength and composure under pressure.&nbsp;"But yes, physically they might have an advantage, but I think finals are all about mental toughness. So the team that is mentally up for the challenge is the one that's going to win," said Gill.&nbsp;The opener also discussed his aspirations across all formats of the game and said, "I'd be happy to play if, you know, I get picked for the T20 team. But I honestly want to keep working on my game. Doesn't matter what format it is. I want to keep getting better as a T20 batsman, as an ODI batsman, as a Test batsman, you know, cricket is such a game you can never really get perfect, but obviously you can strive for it, and that's what I try to do."&nbsp;Gill reserved special praise for teammate Sai Sudharsan, highlighting the youngster’s consistency and ability to maintain high standards throughout a demanding IPL campaign.&nbsp;&nbsp;"I think in a tournament like IPL, you know, when I first started playing, one of the things that one of the challenges that I faced was to keep playing the matches at the same intensity. And I think that is one of his biggest strengths, Sai. You know, you play so many matches, there could be days where mentally you don't feel up to the mark or physically you don't feel up to the mark."&nbsp;Since forming an opening partnership in 2022, Gill and Sudharsan have become one of the most prolific duos in IPL history, amassing 2,944 runs together.&nbsp;Also Read - <a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/singapore-open-2026-satwiksairaj-rankireddy-and-chirag-shetty-stun-world-champions-to-reach-men-s-doubles-final-1780151076552">Singapore Open 2026: Satwiksairaj Rankireddy and Chirag Shetty stun world champions to reach men’s doubles final</a>&nbsp;After winning the Orange Cap with 759 runs last season, Sudharsan has carried his excellent form into the current campaign, while Gill has also featured prominently among the tournament’s leading run-scorers.&nbsp;Gill also praised the team's star pace duo of Kagiso Rabada and Mohammed Siraj for having a brilliant run in the ongoing IPL season. "The message is simple. When you're bowling with the new ball if there is a little bit in the wicket, as a batsman I know the hardest ball to hit is obviously that good length ball, but that good length changes according to the wicket. You know, if you're playing on black soil, if there is grass on it, if there is no grass, if you're playing on red soil. So that length...there's a lot of talk about length, length, length, but the length is not the same on all the venues. It varies, probably a meter back or forth," he said. "I mean there's a reason why test match length works because it is the hardest ball to hit as a batsman with the new ball. But I think the way we executed our bouncers today, it was quite exceptional. We think in every over we used our bouncers very well and the accuracy of bouncers that we bowled--I've actually not seen in a T20 game--the number of bouncers we used and the success that we got was tremendous," he added.&nbsp;&nbsp;With inputs from agencies

Gujarat Titans are set to take on defending champions Royal Challengers Bengaluru in the IPL 2026 title clash at the Narendra Modi Stadium in Ahmedabad on Sunday.

Ahead of the IPL 2026 final against defending champions Royal Challengers Bengaluru on Sunday, Shubman Gill reflected on the physical and mental challenges of a packed tournament schedule. Speaking at the pre-match press conference on Saturday, the Gujarat Titans captain stressed that title-deciding matches are ultimately won through mental strength and composure under pressure. "But yes, physically they might have an advantage, but I think finals are all about mental toughness. So the team that is mentally up for the challenge is the one that's going to win," said Gill. The opener also discussed his aspirations across all formats of the game and said, "I'd be happy to play if, you know, I get picked for the T20 team. But I honestly want to keep working on my game. Doesn't matter what format it is. I want to keep getting better as a T20 batsman, as an ODI batsman, as a Test batsman, you know, cricket is such a game you can never really get perfect, but obviously you can strive for it, and that's what I try to do." Gill reserved special praise for teammate Sai Sudharsan, highlighting the youngster’s consistency and ability to maintain high standards throughout a demanding IPL campaign. "I think in a tournament like IPL, you know, when I first started playing, one of the things that one of the challenges that I faced was to keep playing the matches at the same intensity. And I think that is one of his biggest strengths, Sai. You know, you play so many matches, there could be days where mentally you don't feel up to the mark or physically you don't feel up to the mark." Since forming an opening partnership in 2022, Gill and Sudharsan have become one of the most prolific duos in IPL history, amassing 2,944 runs together. Also Read - Singapore Open 2026: Satwiksairaj Rankireddy and Chirag Shetty stun world champions to reach men’s doubles final After winning the Orange Cap with 759 runs last season, Sudharsan has carried his excellent form into the current campaign, while Gill has also featured prominently among the tournament’s leading run-scorers. Gill also praised the team's star pace duo of Kagiso Rabada and Mohammed Siraj for having a brilliant run in the ongoing IPL season. "The message is simple. When you're bowling with the new ball if there is a little bit in the wicket, as a batsman I know the hardest ball to hit is obviously that good length ball, but that good length changes according to the wicket. You know, if you're playing on black soil, if there is grass on it, if there is no grass, if you're playing on red soil. So that length...there's a lot of talk about length, length, length, but the length is not the same on all the venues. It varies, probably a meter back or forth," he said. "I mean there's a reason why test match length works because it is the hardest ball to hit as a batsman with the new ball. But I think the way we executed our bouncers today, it was quite exceptional. We think in every over we used our bouncers very well and the accuracy of bouncers that we bowled--I've actually not seen in a T20 game--the number of bouncers we used and the success that we got was tremendous," he added. With inputs from agencies

Gujarat Titans are set to take on defending champions Royal Challengers Bengaluru in the IPL 2026 title clash at the Narendra Modi Stadium in Ahmedabad on Sunday.

'Finals are all about mental toughness': Shubman Gill ahead of IPL 2026 title clash vs RCB

Gujarat Titans captain Shubman Gill shared a special celebration with his parents after leading his side to a memorable seven-wicket victory over the Rajasthan Royals in Qualifier 2 of IPL 2026. The skipper produced a match-winning century, scoring 104 from just 53 deliveries, as Gujarat successfully chased down 215 runs in the penultimate over, the highest successful run chase in IPL playoff history.&nbsp;The post-match celebrations became even more special when Gill’s father, Lakhwinder Singh, broke into a celebratory dance. Although Gill initially appeared shy, he soon joined in, sharing smiles, dancing alongside his parents and posing for photographs.<h3>Watch the video below</h3>

<blockquote class="twitter-tweet" data-media-max-width="560">Shubman Gill&#39;s father wanted to dance with him, but Gill looked very shy.😂 <a href="https://t.co/fmU39HAb6E">pic.twitter.com/fmU39HAb6E</a>&mdash; Sam (@cricsam02) <a href="https://x.com/cricsam02/status/2060590214251430225?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">May 30, 2026</a></blockquote> <script async src="https://platform.x.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script>

Also Read - <a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/vinesh-phogat-s-asian-games-2026-dream-ends-in-heartbreak-after-loss-in-semis-during-trials-1780142173327">Vinesh Phogat’s Asian Games 2026 dream ends in heartbreak after loss in semis during trials</a>&nbsp;Gill has been one of the standout performers of IPL 2026, accumulating 722 runs in 15 innings at an impressive strike rate of 163.72 and his remarkable consistency has placed him second in the race for the Orange Cap.&nbsp;Despite being overlooked for India’s T20 squad ahead of the T20 World Cup earlier this year, Gill’s exceptional form in the shortest format continues to strengthen his case for a return to the national setup. His latest captain’s innings once again underlined his ability to deliver on the biggest stage.

A brilliant 104 from Shubman Gill helped Gujarat Titans pull off the highest successful chase in IPL playoff history and book their spot in the 2026 final, with the skipper later celebrating the memorable win alongside his family.

Gujarat Titans captain Shubman Gill shared a special celebration with his parents after leading his side to a memorable seven-wicket victory over the Rajasthan Royals in Qualifier 2 of IPL 2026. The skipper produced a match-winning century, scoring 104 from just 53 deliveries, as Gujarat successfully chased down 215 runs in the penultimate over, the highest successful run chase in IPL playoff history. The post-match celebrations became even more special when Gill’s father, Lakhwinder Singh, broke into a celebratory dance. Although Gill initially appeared shy, he soon joined in, sharing smiles, dancing alongside his parents and posing for photographs. Watch the video below

A brilliant 104 from Shubman Gill helped Gujarat Titans pull off the highest successful chase in IPL playoff history and book their spot in the 2026 final, with the skipper later celebrating the memorable win alongside his family.

IPL 2026: Shubman Gill shares a special family moment after GT’s win - WATCH

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