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Greek swimmer Kristian Gkolomeev emerged as the only competitor to surpass a world record on Sunday at the controversial Enhanced Games, where athletes were permitted to use performance-enhancing drugs. Competing in the men’s 50m freestyle in Las Vegas, Gkolomeev clocked 20.81 seconds in the final race of the evening. Although the result is not officially recognised, it was faster than the 20.88, second benchmark set by Australian swimmer Cameron McEvoy in March.&nbsp;Wearing a high-tech “supersuit” that has long been banned in competitions such as the Olympic Games, Gkolomeev secured a $1 million reward for the performance.&nbsp;“It was a great race… I got it,” Gkolomeev said after the event. “Maybe next year I’ll break it again.”&nbsp;The Enhanced Games have faced strong criticism from sports governing bodies and anti-doping organizations, which argue the event poses significant health risks to athletes.&nbsp;The competition attracted several high-profile swimmers with Olympic credentials, including James Magnussen, Cody Miller and Ben Proud, with prize money reaching $250,000 for event victories.&nbsp;Also Read - <a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/they-haven-t-removed-me-yash-dayal-breaks-silence-on-rcb-snub-1779704443694">'They haven’t removed me': Yash Dayal breaks silence on RCB snub</a>&nbsp;Co-founder Max Martin had anticipated that multiple records would fall during the event, however, several athletes narrowly missed historic times before Gkolomeev’s standout swim.&nbsp;Meanwhile, Britain’s Proud captured the men’s 50m butterfly title in 22.32 seconds, finishing just 0.05 off the world mark.&nbsp;Also Read - <a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/no-real-madrid-player-picked-in-barcelona-heavy-spain-fifa-world-cup-squad-lamine-yamal-rodri-gavi-pedri-1779710387129">No Real Madrid player picked in Barcelona-heavy Spain FIFA World Cup squad</a> "We all know what we came for. And that's world records. And so, to be that agonizingly close, it's frustrating," said the Paris 2024 silver medallist.&nbsp;Gkolomeev earlier clocked 46.60sec in the 100m freestyle, missing the world record of 46.40.&nbsp;"I think tonight, yes, we did expect a few more world records to happen. But at the end of the day, this is live sports, and this is always something that you can never plan for," Martin told AFP.&nbsp;"We've had certain injuries today with athletes that couldn't participate because of that," he added.&nbsp;With inputs from agencies

Greek swimmer Kristian Gkolomeev won the men’s 50m freestyle at the Enhanced Games on Sunday and was the only athlete to break a record at the event.

Greek swimmer Kristian Gkolomeev emerged as the only competitor to surpass a world record on Sunday at the controversial Enhanced Games, where athletes were permitted to use performance-enhancing drugs. Competing in the men’s 50m freestyle in Las Vegas, Gkolomeev clocked 20.81 seconds in the final race of the evening. Although the result is not officially recognised, it was faster than the 20.88, second benchmark set by Australian swimmer Cameron McEvoy in March. Wearing a high-tech “supersuit” that has long been banned in competitions such as the Olympic Games, Gkolomeev secured a $1 million reward for the performance. “It was a great race… I got it,” Gkolomeev said after the event. “Maybe next year I’ll break it again.” The Enhanced Games have faced strong criticism from sports governing bodies and anti-doping organizations, which argue the event poses significant health risks to athletes. The competition attracted several high-profile swimmers with Olympic credentials, inc luding James Magnussen, Cody Miller and Ben Proud, with prize money reaching $250,000 for event victories. Also Read - 'They haven’t removed me': Yash Dayal breaks silence on RCB snub Co-founder Max Martin had anticipated that multiple records would fall during the event, however, several athletes narrowly missed historic times before Gkolomeev’s standout swim. Meanwhile, Britain’s Proud captured the men’s 50m butterfly title in 22.32 seconds, finishing just 0.05 off the world mark. Also Read - No Real Madrid player picked in Barcelona-heavy Spain FIFA World Cup squad "We all know what we came for. And that's world records. And so, to be that agonizingly close, it's frustrating," said the Paris 2024 silver medallist. Gkolomeev earlier clocked 46.60sec in the 100m freestyle, missing the world record of 46.40. "I think tonight, yes, we did expect a few more world records to happen. But at the end of the day, this is live sports, and this is always something that you can never plan for," Martin told AFP. "We've had certain injuries today with athletes that couldn't participate because of that," he added. With inputs from agencies

Greek swimmer Kristian Gkolomeev won the men’s 50m freestyle at the Enhanced Games on Sunday and was the only athlete to break a record at the event.

Swimmer Gkolomeev breaks record at drug-allowed Enhanced Games

Cracking boundaries for fun! Check out the top 5 batsmen with the most fours in the IPL 2026 league stage, headlined by the sensational Orange Cap leader Sai Sudharsan

Cracking boundaries for fun! Check out the top 5 batsmen with the most fours in the IPL 2026 league stage, headlined by the sensational Orange Cap leader Sai Sudharsan

Meet Top 5 Batters with Most Fours in IPL 2026 League Stage

Royal Challengers Bengaluru fast bowler Yash Dayal, who is currently out on bail in multiple sexual harassment and exploitation cases, has said that his absence from the IPL 2026 season was a decision taken by the franchise management and not by him personally. He added that, given the choice, he would have preferred to remain with the squad. Dayal also revealed that he continues to stay in regular contact with the team management, particularly batting coach and mentor Dinesh Karthik.&nbsp;The left-arm pacer is facing two criminal investigations in different states, including allegations under the POCSO Act linked to a minor. One FIR, lodged in Ghaziabad in 2025, accused him of exploiting a woman under the false promise of marriage, while another case filed in Jaipur alleged repeated rape of a minor.&nbsp;Speaking on the Talk With Manvendra Podcast, Dayal said the franchise had neither released him nor named a replacement, which he sees as a sign that the team still considered him as a part of their plans.&nbsp;“They haven’t removed me from the team, and they haven’t even announced a replacement because maybe they still see me as part of the squad," he said on Talk With Manvendra Podcast.&nbsp;“It wasn’t my personal decision to opt out of this season. The statement may become controversial, but decisions are always taken by the authorities… I miss it a lot and feel like I should be there."&nbsp;Also Read - <a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/ipl-2026-how-millers-denied-single-vs-gt-costed-dc-a-potential-playoff-spot-1779703879494">IPL 2026 | How Miller's denied single vs GT costed DC a potential playoff spot</a>&nbsp;Dayal further stated that he remains in touch with the franchise leadership, including director Mo Bobat and Karthik.&nbsp;“There is communication with the management. Sometimes they call me, sometimes I call them. I speak with the director (Mo Bobat), and I also stay in touch with Dinesh Karthik," he added.&nbsp;The cricketer has been granted interim protection from arrest by both the Allahabad and Rajasthan High Courts while investigations continue. Despite the pending cases, RCB retained him for INR 5 crore following his contribution to the team’s IPL 2025 title-winning campaign.&nbsp;&nbsp;The decision attracted criticism, especially since the franchise had an opportunity to release him ahead of the 2026 auction.&nbsp;Earlier this season, RCB removed Dayal from team bus promotional images and later confirmed through a media statement that he would not be part of the squad, while also stating that the franchise continued to support him.&nbsp;RCB ended the IPL 2026 league stage at the top of the points table and are set to play the first Qualifier against GT on Tuesday (May 26).

RCB pacer Yash Dayal, currently out on bail in POCSO and rape cases, said the franchise still sees him as part of their plans and that he remains in regular contact with coach Dinesh Karthik.

Royal Challengers Bengaluru fast bowler Yash Dayal, who is currently out on bail in multiple sexual harassment and exploitation cases, has said that his absence from the IPL 2026 season was a decision taken by the franchise management and not by him personally. He added that, given the choice, he would have preferred to remain with the squad. Dayal also revealed that he continues to stay in regular contact with the team management, particularly batting coach and mentor Dinesh Karthik. The left-arm pacer is facing two criminal investigations in different states, including allegations under the POCSO Act linked to a minor. One FIR, lodged in Ghaziabad in 2025, accused him of exploiting a woman under the false promise of marriage, while another case filed in Jaipur alleged repeated rape of a minor. Speaking on the Talk With Manvendra Podcast, Dayal said the franchise had neither released him nor named a replacement, which he sees as a sign that the team still considered him as a part of their plans. “They haven’t removed me from the team, and they haven’t even announced a replacement because maybe they still see me as part of the squad," he said on Talk With Manvendra Podcast. “It wasn’t my personal decision to opt out of this season. The statement may become controversial, but decisions are always taken by the authorities… I miss it a lot and feel like I should be there." Also Read - IPL 2026 | How Miller's denied single vs GT costed DC a potential playoff spot Dayal further stated that he remains in touch with the franchise leadership, including director Mo Bobat and Karthik. “There is communication with the management. Sometimes they call me, sometimes I call them. I speak with the director (Mo Bobat), and I also stay in touch with Dinesh Karthik," he added. The cricketer has been granted interim protection from arrest by both the Allahabad and Rajasthan High Courts while investigations continue. Despite the pending cases, RCB retained him for INR 5 crore following his contribution to the team’s IPL 2025 title-winning campaign. The decision attracted criticism, especially since the franchise had an opportunity to release him ahead of the 2026 auction. Earlier this season, RCB removed Dayal from team bus promotional images and later confirmed through a media statement that he would not be part of the squad, while also stating that the franchise continued to support him. RCB ended the IPL 2026 league stage at the top of the points table and are set to play the first Qualifier against GT on Tuesday (May 26).

RCB pacer Yash Dayal, currently out on bail in POCSO and rape cases, said the franchise still sees him as part of their plans and that he remains in regular contact with coach Dinesh Karthik.

'They haven’t removed me': Yash Dayal breaks silence on RCB snub

Masterclass in power-hitting! Check out the top 5 batsmen with the most sixes in the IPL 2026 league stage, led by Rajasthan Royals' record-breaking teenage prodigy, Vaibhav Sooryavanshi. 

Masterclass in power-hitting! Check out the top 5 batsmen with the most sixes in the IPL 2026 league stage, led by Rajasthan Royals' record-breaking teenage prodigy, Vaibhav Sooryavanshi.&nbsp;

Meet Top 5 Batters with Most Sixes in IPL 2026 League Stage

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

Meet top 5 bowlers with most wickets in IPL 2026 (league stage)

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

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

Meet top 5 batters with most runs in IPL 2026 (league stage)

Delhi Capitals finished IPL 2026 with 14 points from seven wins and as many losses in 14 matches and missed out on spot for playoffs. DC's points were only two short of fourth-placed Rajasthan Royals, which qualified with 16 points. The Axar Patel-led side could have qualified for the playoffs if not for a denied single by David Miller in the earlier matches for the team. DC lost the match by one run against Gujarat Titans (GT) in which Miller refused to take a single on the penultimate ball to tie the match and those points have surely came back to haunt the team.<h2>The single which potentially denied DC a playoff spot</h2>Chasing 211, DC needed two runs off the last two balls with Miller on strike. The Protea batter hit the penultimate ball of the match from Prasidh Krishan to deep square leg and he decided not to take a single and sent Kuldeep Yadav back. The single would have a tied the match, giving DC a chance to win the match on the last ball or even super over.Also Read - <a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/ipl-2026-will-rcb-be-able-to-defend-title-here-s-what-data-says-about-consecutive-trophy-winners-1779695890964">IPL 2026 | Will RCB be able to defend title? Here's what data says</a>On the last ball, Prasidh Krishna bowled a slow bouncer and the batters failed to complete a single run let alone two needed to win and GT went on to win the match by one run - denying a crucial win to DC and much needed two points which eventually may have costed them a playoff spot.<h2>How DC performed in league stage?</h2>DC started the season with two back-to-back wins and then lost two consecutive matches. A single win then came followed by three consecutive losses. A solitary win then came again followed by two losses, leaving DC's chances hanging by a thread. The Capitals, however, won three wins in last three matches but it wasn't enough in the end to take them to playoffs.

DC lost the match by one run against Gujarat Titans (GT) in which Miller refused to take a single on the penultimate ball to tie the match and those points have surely came back to haunt the team.

Delhi Capitals finished IPL 2026 with 14 points from seven wins and as many losses in 14 matches and missed out on spot for playoffs. DC's points were only two short of fourth-placed Rajasthan Royals, which qualified with 16 points. The Axar Patel-led side could have qualified for the playoffs if not for a denied single by David Miller in the earlier matches for the team. DC lost the match by one run against Gujarat Titans (GT) in which Miller refused to take a single on the penultimate ball to tie the match and those points have surely came back to haunt the team. The single which potentially denied DC a playoff spot Chasing 211, DC needed two runs off the last two balls with Miller on strike. The Protea batter hit the penultimate ball of the match from Prasidh Krishan to deep square leg and he decided not to take a single and sent Kuldeep Yadav back. The single would have a tied the match, giving DC a chance to win the match on the last ball or even super over. Also Read - IPL 2026 | Will RCB be able to defend title? Here's what data says On the last ball, Prasidh Krishna bowled a slow bouncer and the batters failed to complete a single run let alone two needed to win and GT went on to win the match by one run - denying a crucial win to DC and much needed two points which eventually may have costed them a playoff spot. How DC performed in league stage? DC started the season with two back-to-back wins and then lost two consecutive matches. A single win then came followed by three consecutive losses. A solitary win then came again followed by two losses, leaving DC's chances hanging by a thread. The Capitals, however, won three wins in last three matches but it wasn't enough in the end to take them to playoffs.

DC lost the match by one run against Gujarat Titans (GT) in which Miller refused to take a single on the penultimate ball to tie the match and those points have surely came back to haunt the team.

IPL 2026 | How Miller's denied single vs GT costed DC a potential playoff spot

Age doesn’t seem to be a problem for Mitchell Starc, Australian ODI captain Pat Cummins and Josh Hazlewood, the three pace veterans the Australia wish to have on board for their title defence in the 2027 ODI World Cup. The two-time ODI World Cup-winning trio would be entering the ‘concerned age’ bracket by the time the next showpiece event comes across, but Australian head coach Andrew McDonald is hopeful of them staying fit for the 14-team tournament. While the selectors have rested the pace attack for the away sub-continent ODI tours, the trio remain in reckoning for the packed calendar.&nbsp;“I think people look at the immediate games and go, 'Well, why aren't they playing there?'” McDonald said. “But if you actually work back from 2027 and look at what we've got coming up, this is the last significant break that we get to invest into their bodies to set themselves up to get all the way through to 2027. We are planning for them to be there in 2027.”&nbsp;Also read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/they-are-attacking-my-friends-and-family-travis-head-wife-jessica-reveals-online-abuse-after-virat-kohli-spat-during-srh-vs-rcb-ipl-2026-playoffs-1779697330482">‘They are attacking my friends and family,' Travis Head’s wife reveals online abuse after Kohli spat</a> &nbsp;While McDonald expects that the roadmap to their title defence and managing their pace attack's workload is stiff to begin with, he believes that by providing them ample rest, despite their willingness to play, Australia can remain in the winning position. &nbsp;Adding that the three quicks were available for selection for the white-ball tours of Pakistan and Bangladesh, McDonald said that the CA, selectors and the management chose against picking them, saying they didn’t feel like ‘it’s the best time for them to play.’ &nbsp;"I think there needs to be a lot of trust in what we're doing to be able to get them there. It's going to be a significant challenge, in particular for our fantastic (sports science and medical) team, they've done a great job over a period of time," McDonald said. &nbsp;"I think there's almost a misconception that the players are sort of picking and choosing as to where they play and which series they play in. These decisions are made around the management of what is coming up with in the schedule - and they don't choose that. &nbsp;"We work with them on it ... those players want to play. We just don't feel like it's the best time for them to play," he added. &nbsp;Meanwhile, hailing the pair as robust but ‘oldies’ at the same time, the head coach reflected on their age reality and how Australia can benefit from their availability.&nbsp; &nbsp;"We are getting older, so that's going to create some different management challenges. They've been incredibly robust, a lot of those players, and a few have had a few recent (injury) pickups, so it's something that we need to invest a lot of time into,” he added.

"We are getting older." Australian head coach Andrew McDonald reveals the long-term blueprint to manage the veteran pace trio of Cummins, Starc, and Hazlewood through to the 2027 ODI World Cup.

Age doesn’t seem to be a problem for Mitchell Starc, Australian ODI captain Pat Cummins and Josh Hazlewood, the three pace veterans the Australia wish to have on board for their title defence in the 2027 ODI World Cup. The two-time ODI World Cup-winning trio would be entering the ‘concerned age’ bracket by the time the next showpiece event comes across, but Australian head coach Andrew McDonald is hopeful of them staying fit for the 14-team tournament. While the selectors have rested the pace attack for the away sub-continent ODI tours, the trio remain in reckoning for the packed calendar. “I think people look at the immediate games and go, 'Well, why aren't they playing there?'” McDonald said. “But if you actually work back from 2027 and look at what we've got coming up, this is the last significant break that we get to invest into their bodies to set themselves up to get all the way through to 2027. We are planning for them to be there in 2027.” Also read | ‘They are attacking my friends and family,' Travis Head’s wife reveals online abuse after Kohli spat While McDonald expects that the roadmap to their title defence and managing their pace attack's workload is stiff to begin with, he believes that by providing them ample rest, despite their willingness to play, Australia can remain in the winning position. Adding that the three quicks were available for selection for the white-ball tours of Pakistan and Bangladesh, McDonald said that the CA, selectors and the management chose against picking them, saying they didn’t feel like ‘it’s the best time for them to play.’ "I think there needs to be a lot of trust in what we're doing to be able to get them there. It's going to be a significant challenge, in particular for our fantastic (sports science and medical) team, they've done a great job over a period of time," McDonald said. "I think there's almost a misconception that the players are sort of picking and choosing as to where they play and which series they play in. These decisions are made around the management of what is coming up with in the schedule - and they don't choose that. "We work with them on it ... those players want to play. We just don't feel like it's the best time for them to play," he added. Meanwhile, hailing the pair as robust but ‘oldies’ at the same time, the head coach reflected on their age reality and how Australia can benefit from their availability. "We are getting older, so that's going to create some different management challenges. They've been incredibly robust, a lot of those players, and a few have had a few recent (injury) pickups, so it's something that we need to invest a lot of time into,” he added.

"We are getting older." Australian head coach Andrew McDonald reveals the long-term blueprint to manage the veteran pace trio of Cummins, Starc, and Hazlewood through to the 2027 ODI World Cup.

Age No Bar: Australia back veteran pace trio to lead 2027 World Cup title defence

Online abuse directed at cricketers, their spouses and even friends and extended family members has become an unfortunate norm these days. Travis Head and his wife are back at the receiving end of this. After SRH opener and RCB icon Virat Kohli indulged in a verbal spat during their face-off the past week, Virat’s fans took to Instagram, abusing Head’s wife and even her friends. Not for the first time did the pair face similar trauma, as following Head’s unbeaten match-winning 137 against India in the 2023 ODI World Cup final, he and his family were abused online.&nbsp;&nbsp;During RCB’s run chase in Hyderabad, Kohli and Head exchanged words, with the Indian veteran not shaking hands with his Aussie counterpart after the match, sparking online debate. While a section of fans defended Virat’s action, saying such things keep happening between players, many trolled Kohli for acting too arrogantly and harshly over a spat. Although neither commented on it, Virat’s fans flooded Head and his wife’s social media handles with sheer abuse. &nbsp;See Pics | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/photos/ipl-2026-road-to-playoffs-how-rcb-gt-srh-and-rr-entered-top-4-1779683121847">IPL 2026 Road to Playoffs: How RCB, GT, SRH and RR entered top 4</a>&nbsp;Speaking to the Australian media outlet The Advertiser, Head’s wife, Jessica, revealed she woke up to her social media being flooded with online abuse the day after a spat with Kohli.&nbsp; &nbsp;“It feels like a repeat of the abuse that happened after the World Cup,” Jessica said in a chat with The Advertiser. “I woke up to my socials blasting... we are fine, but they are attacking my friends and family.” &nbsp;Even after Australia beat India to win their sixth ODI World Cup in November 2023, Head, his wife and even his young daughter received disturbing online abuse and threats. Jessica, however, has urged the fans to be more respectful on social media.&nbsp; &nbsp;“I think across all sports at the moment there’s an important conversation around mental health, perspective and the way we speak to one another,” she added. “Passion will always be part of sport, but so is remembering there are real people and families behind the game. Hopefully, this encourages more kindness and support for one another.” &nbsp;Meanwhile, both SRH and the defending champions RCB have reached the playoffs this season. While RCB will face Gujarat Titans (GT) in the Qualifier 1 on Tuesday (May 26) in Dharamsala, the SRH and Rajasthan Royals (RR) will face off in the Eliminator in New Chandigarh on Wednesday (May 27).&nbsp;

"They are attacking my friends and family." Travis Head’s wife, Jessica, speaks out against severe online abuse from fans following her husband's intense IPL 2026 clash with Virat Kohli.

Online abuse directed at cricketers, their spouses and even friends and extended family members has become an unfortunate norm these days. Travis Head and his wife are back at the receiving end of this. After SRH opener and RCB icon Virat Kohli indulged in a verbal spat during their face-off the past week, Virat’s fans took to Instagram, abusing Head’s wife and even her friends. Not for the first time did the pair face similar trauma, as following Head’s unbeaten match-winning 137 against India in the 2023 ODI World Cup final, he and his family were abused online. During RCB’s run chase in Hyderabad, Kohli and Head exchanged words, with the Indian veteran not shaking hands with his Aussie counterpart after the match, sparking online debate. While a section of fans defended Virat’s action, saying such things keep happening between players, many trolled Kohli for acting too arrogantly and harshly over a spat. Although neither commented on it, Virat’s fans flooded Head and his wife’s social media handles with sheer abuse. See Pics | IPL 2026 Road to Playoffs: How RCB, GT, SRH and RR entered top 4 Speaking to the Australian media outlet The Advertiser, Head’s wife, Jessica, revealed she woke up to her social media being flooded with online abuse the day after a spat with Kohli. “It feels like a repeat of the abuse that happened after the World Cup,” Jessica said in a chat with The Advertiser. “I woke up to my socials blasting... we are fine, but they are attacking my friends and family.” Even after Australia beat India to win their sixth ODI World Cup in November 2023, Head, his wife and even his young daughter received disturbing online abuse and threats. Jessica, however, has urged the fans to be more respectful on social media. “I think across all sports at the moment there’s an important conversation around mental health, perspective and the way we speak to one another,” she added. “Passion will always be part of sport, but so is remembering there are real people and families behind the game. Hopefully, this encourages more kindness and support for one another.” Meanwhile, both SRH and the defending champions RCB have reached the playoffs this season. While RCB will face Gujarat Titans (GT) in the Qualifier 1 on Tuesday (May 26) in Dharamsala, the SRH and Rajasthan Royals (RR) will face off in the Eliminator in New Chandigarh on Wednesday (May 27).

"They are attacking my friends and family." Travis Head’s wife, Jessica, speaks out against severe online abuse from fans following her husband's intense IPL 2026 clash with Virat Kohli.

‘They are attacking my friends and family,' Travis Head’s wife reveals online abuse after Kohli spat

The IPL 2026 is in the playoff stage and the four teams remain in contention for a title. The teams which remain in the hunt for the title after 14 games each in the league stage are: Defending champions Royal Challengers Bengaluru (RCB), SunRisers Hyderabad (SRH), Gujarat Titans (GT), and Rajasthan Royals. All four teams have won at least one title each - in fact only one title each. With only the top teams remaining to play the playoffs stage, the race for Orange Cap and Purple Cap has also gotten thinner. The question is - How many times a team has won back-to-back titles and what does it take to do it? Let's look at the data from previous years and try to pick out a winner -<h2>How can Royal Challengers Bengaluru (RCB) defend IPL title?</h2>Only two teams in the history of IPL have won consecutive title - Chennai Super Kings (CSK) in 2010 &amp; 2011 and Mumbai Indians (MI) in 2019 &amp; 2020. During their back-to-back title wins, no players from either teams won Orange Cup or Purple Cap. As of now, GT's Said Sudharsan (638 runs) holds the Orange Cap for most runs and Purple Cap for most wicket is held jointly by RCB's Bhuvneshwar Kumar and GT's Kagiso Rabada with 24 wickets each - a slight disadvantage for RCB from historical set of eyes.Also Read - <a href="https://www.wionews.com/photos/ipl-2026-road-to-playoffs-how-rcb-gt-srh-and-rr-entered-top-4-1779683121847">IPL 2026 Road to Playoffs: How RCB, GT, SRH and RR entered top 4</a>During RCB's maiden title win in 2025, however, GT's Sudharsan (759 runs) and Prasidh Krishna (25 wickets) had the Orange Cap ad Purple Cap, respectively. In the ongoing edition, GT again have Orange Cap leader as of now and also the joint Purple Cap leader as well - something which could work in favour of RCB? Only time will tell.<h2>How many times a Purple Cap winner has won IPL?</h2>In the 18-year-long history of IPL, only three times a Purple Cap winner has won the IPL trophy as well and those players are: Sohail Tanvir - Won Purple Cap with 22 wickets in 2008 and Rajasthan Royals won the title. RP Singh - Won Purple Cap with 23 wickets in 2009 and Deccan Chargers won the title. Bhuvneshwar Kumar - Won Purple Cap with 23 wickets in 2016 and SRH won the title.With Bhuvi once again leading the list, jointly though, RCB do have a chance to win the title.<h2>How many times an Orange Cap winner has won the IPL?</h2>Batting surely gets all the attention in the IPL but winning Orange Cap for a team does not guarantee an IPL title. In fact, only two times in the history of the tournament a batter has won both - Orange Cap and IPL title - Robin Uthappa with 660 runs for Kolkata Knight Riders (KKR) in 2014 and Ruturaj Gaikwad with 635 runs for CSK in 2021.As for RCB, Sai Saudharsan was the Orange Cap winner and he is at the top in the ongoing edition as well - another plus for RCB's title hopes.

Chennai Super Kings (CSK) in 2010 & 2011 and Mumbai Indians (MI) in 2019 & 2020 are the only two teams to win back-to-back IPL trophies in tournament history.

The IPL 2026 is in the playoff stage and the four teams remain in contention for a title. The teams which remain in the hunt for the title after 14 games each in the league stage are: Defending champions Royal Challengers Bengaluru (RCB), SunRisers Hyderabad (SRH), Gujarat Titans (GT), and Rajasthan Royals. All four teams have won at least one title each - in fact only one title each. With only the top teams remaining to play the playoffs stage, the race for Orange Cap and Purple Cap has also gotten thinner. The question is - How many times a team has won back-to-back titles and what does it take to do it? Let's look at the data from previous years and try to pick out a winner - How can Royal Challengers Bengaluru (RCB) defend IPL title? Only two teams in the history of IPL have won consecutive title - Chennai Super Kings (CSK) in 2010 & 2011 and Mumbai Indians (MI) in 2019 & 2020. During their back-to-back title wins, no players from either teams won Orange Cup or Purple Cap. As of now, GT's Said Sudharsan (638 runs) holds the Orange Cap for most runs and Purple Cap for most wicket is held jointly by RCB's Bhuvneshwar Kumar and GT's Kagiso Rabada with 24 wickets each - a slight disadvantage for RCB from historical set of eyes. Also Read - IPL 2026 Road to Playoffs: How RCB, GT, SRH and RR entered top 4 During RCB's maiden title win in 2025, however, GT's Sudharsan (759 runs) and Prasidh Krishna (25 wickets) had the Orange Cap ad Purple Cap, respectively. In the ongoing edition, GT again have Orange Cap leader as of now and also the joint Purple Cap leader as well - something which could work in favour of RCB? Only time will tell. How many times a Purple Cap winner has won IPL? In the 18-year-long history of IPL, only three times a Purple Cap winner has won the IPL trophy as well and those players are: Sohail Tanvir - Won Purple Cap with 22 wickets in 2008 and Rajasthan Royals won the title. RP Singh - Won Purple Cap with 23 wickets in 2009 and Deccan Chargers won the title. Bhuvneshwar Kumar - Won Purple Cap with 23 wickets in 2016 and SRH won the title. With Bhuvi once again leading the list, jointly though, RCB do have a chance to win the title. How many times an Orange Cap winner has won the IPL? Batting surely gets all the attention in the IPL but winning Orange Cap for a team does not guarantee an IPL title. In fact, only two times in the history of the tournament a batter has won both - Orange Cap and IPL title - Robin Uthappa with 660 runs for Kolkata Knight Riders (KKR) in 2014 and Ruturaj Gaikwad with 635 runs for CSK in 2021. As for RCB, Sai Saudharsan was the Orange Cap winner and he is at the top in the ongoing edition as well - another plus for RCB's title hopes.

Chennai Super Kings (CSK) in 2010 &amp; 2011 and Mumbai Indians (MI) in 2019 &amp; 2020 are the only two teams to win back-to-back IPL trophies in tournament history.

IPL 2026 | Will RCB be able to defend title? Here's what data says about consecutive trophy winners

RCB, GT, SRH and RR have qualified for the IPL 2026 playoffs after a thrilling league stage. RCB, GT enter Qualifier 1, while RR face SRH in the Eliminator after sealing the final spot with a crucial win over Mumbai Indians to complete the top four.

RCB, GT, SRH and RR have qualified for the IPL 2026 playoffs after a thrilling league stage. RCB, GT enter Qualifier 1, while RR face SRH in the Eliminator after sealing the final spot with a crucial win over Mumbai Indians to complete the top four.

IPL 2026 Road to Playoffs: How RCB, GT, SRH and RR entered top 4

Skipper Riyan Parag found strong backing from Rajasthan Royals head coach Kumar Sangakkara after leading RR into the IPL 2026 playoffs with a 30-run win over Mumbai Indians at the Wankhede Stadium on Sunday (May 24). The RR skipper, who has spent years facing criticism over his performances and consistency, was praised by Sangakkara for handling pressure and expectations despite constant scrutiny. The former Sri Lanka captain admitted he had “seen very few players criticised like Parag” in the IPL while backing the youngster’s growth as both batter and leader this season.<h2>‘Seen very few players criticised like Parag’</h2>Sangakkara did not hold back while defending his captain after RR’s crucial victory over MI in a virtual knockout clash. The RR coach pointed out how Parag has been under the scanner ever since entering the IPL as a teenager and credited him for staying mentally strong despite the pressure surrounding him every season.“I’ve seen very few players criticised like Riyan,” Sangakkara said after the match. “For seven years, every season, there’s been something said about him.”The RR head coach also highlighted Parag’s maturity as captain during high-pressure moments in IPL 2026 and said: "If you look at the calls he makes as captain, the confidence with which he drives himself, almost on one foot sometimes to come and play, there's a huge amount of positivity. I think he's captained exceptionally well. And when he's in that dressing room, he's got the respect of all the players and the staff. That's all you can ask for."<h2>Riyan Parag’s record as RR captain in IPL 2026</h2>Parag’s captaincy stint in IPL 2026 has slowly changed the narrative around him. The Assam batter has led Rajasthan Royals in crucial games while also producing useful performances with the bat under pressure.<h3>As RR captain in IPL 2026:</h3>Matches: 12 Runs: 272 Average: 24.73 Strike Rate: 152.81 Fifties: 2 Wins: 7 Losses: 5 Win percentage: 58.33%While Parag’s numbers may not place him among the tournament’s absolute top run-scorers, his impact has come in pressure situations where RR needed quick momentum shifts. The playoffs qualification could now become a turning point in Parag’s IPL journey. For years, he remained one of the league’s most debated young cricketers. But after Rajasthan’s latest win and Sangakkara’s backing, the 24-year-old finally has a chance to win over both critics and fans.

Riyan Parag led Rajasthan Royals into IPL 2026 playoffs after a 30-run win over Mumbai Indians, earning strong backing from head coach Kumar Sangakkara, who praised his resilience amid years of criticism and his growth as a young captain.

Skipper Riyan Parag found strong backing from Rajasthan Royals head coach Kumar Sangakkara after leading RR into the IPL 2026 playoffs with a 30-run win over Mumbai Indians at the Wankhede Stadium on Sunday (May 24). The RR skipper, who has spent years facing criticism over his performances and consistency, was praised by Sangakkara for handling pressure and expectations despite constant scrutiny. The former Sri Lanka captain admitted he had “seen very few players criticised like Parag” in the IPL while backing the youngster’s growth as both batter and leader this season. ‘Seen very few players criticised like Parag’ Sangakkara did not hold back while defending his captain after RR’s crucial victory over MI in a virtual knockout clash. The RR coach pointed out how Parag has been under the scanner ever since entering the IPL as a teenager and credited him for staying mentally strong despite the pressure surrounding him every season. “I’ve seen very few players criticised like Riyan,” Sangakkara said after the match. “For seven years, every season, there’s been something said about him.” The RR head coach also highlighted Parag’s maturity as captain during high-pressure moments in IPL 2026 and said: "If you look at the calls he makes as captain, the confidence with which he drives himself, almost on one foot sometimes to come and play, there's a huge amount of positivity. I think he's captained exceptionally well. And when he's in that dressing room, he's got the respect of all the players and the staff. That's all you can ask for." Riyan Parag’s record as RR captain in IPL 2026 Parag’s captaincy stint in IPL 2026 has slowly changed the narrative around him. The Assam batter has led Rajasthan Royals in crucial games while also producing useful performances with the bat under pressure. As RR captain in IPL 2026: Matches: 12 Runs: 272 Average: 24.73 Strike Rate: 152.81 Fifties: 2 Wins: 7 Losses: 5 Win percentage: 58.33% While Parag’s numbers may not place him among the tournament’s absolute top run-scorers, his impact has come in pressure situations where RR needed quick momentum shifts. The playoffs qualification could now become a turning point in Parag’s IPL journey. For years, he remained one of the league’s most debated young cricketers. But after Rajasthan’s latest win and Sangakkara’s backing, the 24-year-old finally has a chance to win over both critics and fans.

Riyan Parag led Rajasthan Royals into IPL 2026 playoffs after a 30-run win over Mumbai Indians, earning strong backing from head coach Kumar Sangakkara, who praised his resilience amid years of criticism and his growth as a young captain.

IPL 2026 | 'Every season there's something about him': RR coach Sangakkara backs skipper Parag after playoff qualification

The IPL 2026 league stage ended on Sunday (May 24) with the match between Delhi Capitals (DC) and Kolkata Knight Riders (KKR) at the iconic Eden Gardens. The fans cheered every moment even though both the teams were already out of the the play off race. In a high-scoring encounter, DC signed off their campaign on a high note, defeating KKR by 40 runs.<h2>KL Rahul, Kuldeep Yadav shine for DC</h2>After being put into bat first, Delhi Capitals posted a formidable total of 203/5 in their allotted 20 overs. The foundation was laid by KL Rahul, who scored a 30-ball 60. Rahul's innings was punctuated by five boundaries and four towering sixes, providing the necessary impetus at the top. He was well-supported by skipper Axar Patel (39 off 25) and David Miller (28 off 19), while Ashutosh Sharma provided the final flourish with a quick-fire 18 not out to push the score past the 200-run mark.Also Read - <a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/ipl-2026-playoffs-rcb-set-to-face-gt-in-qualifier-1-srh-meet-rr-in-eliminator-1779635767565">IPL 2026 Playoffs: RCB set to face GT in Qualifier 1, SRH meet RR in Eliminator</a>In response, KKR's chase was spearheaded by skipper and veteran Ajinkya Rahane, who rolled back the years with a classy 63 off 39 balls. However, the KKR middle order suffered a collapse, losing their final seven wickets for just 35 runs and were all out for 163 from 128/3 at one stage.Kuldeep Yadav was the primary wrecker-in-chief with a magical spell of 3/29 against his former franchise. Lungi Ngidi also impressed with 3/27, ensuring KKR were bundled out for 163 in 18.4 overs in a chase of 204.<h2>Key Highlights from DC vs KKR Match:</h2>Best Batter: KL Rahul’s 60 off 30 balls set the tone for DC’s massive total.Spin Magic: Kuldeep Yadav’s three-wicket haul, including the crucial wicket of Rahane, broke the back of the KKR chase.Rahane’s Resistance: Ajinkya Rahane was the lone warrior for KKR, scoring a half-century at a strike rate of over 160.Bowling Excellence: Lungi Ngidi (3 wickets) and Mitchell Starc (2 wickets) complemented Kuldeep perfectly to dismantle the KKR lower order.The Collapse: KKR went from a comfortable 128/3 to 163 all out, a collapse that defined the second half of the match.With this win, Delhi Capitals moved up the table to finish their season on the sixth spot with 14 points from seven wins and as many losses in 14 games. KKR, meanwhile, ended their disappointing campaign at the 7th spot in the IPL 2026 standings with 13 points from six wins and seven losses and one no result in 14 matches.

DC signed off IPL 2026 with a 40-run win over KKR. KL Rahul’s 60 and Kuldeep Yadav’s 3-wicket haul powered Delhi to 203, while Rahane’s 63 wasn’t enough for Kolkata in their final game as they were bowled out for 163.

The IPL 2026 league stage ended on Sunday (May 24) with the match between Delhi Capitals (DC) and Kolkata Knight Riders (KKR) at the iconic Eden Gardens. The fans cheered every moment even though both the teams were already out of the the play off race. In a high-scoring encounter, DC signed off their campaign on a high note, defeating KKR by 40 runs. KL Rahul, Kuldeep Yadav shine for DC After being put into bat first, Delhi Capitals posted a formidable total of 203/5 in their allotted 20 overs. The foundation was laid by KL Rahul, who scored a 30-ball 60. Rahul's innings was punctuated by five boundaries and four towering sixes, providing the necessary impetus at the top. He was well-supported by skipper Axar Patel (39 off 25) and David Miller (28 off 19), while Ashutosh Sharma provided the final flourish with a quick-fire 18 not out to push the score past the 200-run mark. Also Read - IPL 2026 Playoffs: RCB set to face GT in Qualifier 1, SRH meet RR in Eliminator In response, KKR's chase was spearheaded by skipper and veteran Ajinkya Rahane, who rolled back the years with a classy 63 off 39 balls. However, the KKR middle order suffered a collapse, losing their final seven wickets for just 35 runs and were all out for 163 from 128/3 at one stage. Kuldeep Yadav was the primary wrecker-in-chief with a magical spell of 3/29 against his former franchise. Lungi Ngidi also impressed with 3/27, ensuring KKR were bundled out for 163 in 18.4 overs in a chase of 204. Key Highlights from DC vs KKR Match: Best Batter: KL Rahul’s 60 off 30 balls set the tone for DC’s massive total. Spin Magic: Kuldeep Yadav’s three-wicket haul, including the crucial wicket of Rahane, broke the back of the KKR chase. Rahane’s Resistance: Ajinkya Rahane was the lone warrior for KKR, scoring a half-century at a strike rate of over 160. Bowling Excellence: Lungi Ngidi (3 wickets) and Mitchell Starc (2 wickets) complemented Kuldeep perfectly to dismantle the KKR lower order. The Collapse: KKR went from a comfortable 128/3 to 163 all out, a collapse that defined the second half of the match. With this win, Delhi Capitals moved up the table to finish their season on the sixth spot with 14 points from seven wins and as many losses in 14 games. KKR, meanwhile, ended their disappointing campaign at the 7th spot in the IPL 2026 standings with 13 points from six wins and seven losses and one no result in 14 matches.

DC signed off IPL 2026 with a 40-run win over KKR. KL Rahul’s 60 and Kuldeep Yadav’s 3-wicket haul powered Delhi to 203, while Rahane’s 63 wasn’t enough for Kolkata in their final game as they were bowled out for 163.

Who won yesterday's IPL 2026 match between Delhi Capitals vs Kolkata Knight Riders? Check result

Delhi Capitals ended their IPL 2026 campaign on a winning note with a convincing 40-run victory over Kolkata Knight Riders at Eden Gardens on Sunday (May 24), however, both teams were already out of playoff contention following Rajasthan Royals’ win over Mumbai Indians earlier in the day. Batting first, DC posted a strong total of 203/5 in 20 overs. Their openers got off to a brisk start as KL Rahul and Abhishek Porel added 40 runs for the opening wicket before Porel departed for 22 off 18 balls to Saurabh Dubey.&nbsp;Youngster Sahil Parakh chipped in with 24 off 17 before Sunil Narine ended his stay at the crease.&nbsp;Rahul steadied the innings and brought up his fifty while sharing a crucial partnership with captain Axar Patel as DC crossed the 100-run mark. Rahul’s entertaining knock of 60 from 30 balls ended when he was dismissed by Anukul Roy, while Axar continued the momentum with a valuable 39 before falling to Varun Chakravarthy.&nbsp;David Miller then added quick runs with a 28-run cameo, while Ashutosh Sharma remained unbeaten on 18 to help Delhi Capitals finish with a challenging target of 204 for KKR.&nbsp;Also Read - <a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/ipl-2026-playoffs-rcb-set-to-face-gt-in-qualifier-1-srh-meet-rr-in-eliminator-1779635767565">IPL 2026 Playoffs: RCB set to face GT in Qualifier 1, SRH meet RR in Eliminator</a>&nbsp;In reply, KKR began positively as Ajinkya Rahane and Finn Allen stitched together a 43-run opening stand, Allen scored 20 off 13 before Ngidi provided the breakthrough. Manish Pandey contributed 25, while Rahane continued to lead the chase and completed a half-century.&nbsp;Ngidi struck again to remove Pandey and Kuldeep Yadav turned the game in DC’s favour by dismissing Cameron Green. Rahane’s fighting 63 off 39 balls came to an end by Kuldeep, who then removed Rinku Singh for a golden duck on the very next delivery.&nbsp;Axar Patel chipped in with the wicket of Tejaswi Singh, while Rovman Powell’s 29 off 21 offered short resistance for his team. Mitchell Starc also joined the wicket-taking group, dismissing Anukul Roy and Kartik Tyagi.&nbsp;&nbsp;In the end, Ngidi wrapped up the innings by removing Varun Chakravarthy as KKR were bowled out for 163.

A brilliant fifty from KL Rahul guided DC to 203/5, while Kuldeep Yadav and Lungi Ngidi claimed three wickets each as KKR were bundled out for 163.

Delhi Capitals ended their IPL 2026 campaign on a winning note with a convincing 40-run victory over Kolkata Knight Riders at Eden Gardens on Sunday (May 24), however, both teams were already out of playoff contention following Rajasthan Royals’ win over Mumbai Indians earlier in the day. Batting first, DC posted a strong total of 203/5 in 20 overs. Their openers got off to a brisk start as KL Rahul and Abhishek Porel added 40 runs for the opening wicket before Porel departed for 22 off 18 balls to Saurabh Dubey. Youngster Sahil Parakh chipped in with 24 off 17 before Sunil Narine ended his stay at the crease. Rahul steadied the innings and brought up his fifty while sharing a crucial partnership with captain Axar Patel as DC crossed the 100-run mark. Rahul’s entertaining knock of 60 from 30 balls ended when he was dismissed by Anukul Roy, while Axar continued the momentum with a valuable 39 before falling to Varun Chakravarthy. David Miller then added quick runs with a 28-run cameo, while Ashutosh Sharma remained unbeaten on 18 to help Delhi Capitals finish with a challenging target of 204 for KKR. Also Read - IPL 2026 Playoffs: RCB set to face GT in Qualifier 1, SRH meet RR in Eliminator In reply, KKR began positively as Ajinkya Rahane and Finn Allen stitched together a 43-run opening stand, Allen scored 20 off 13 before Ngidi provided the breakthrough. Manish Pandey contributed 25, while Rahane continued to lead the chase and completed a half-century. Ngidi struck again to remove Pandey and Kuldeep Yadav turned the game in DC’s favour by dismissing Cameron Green. Rahane’s fighting 63 off 39 balls came to an end by Kuldeep, who then removed Rinku Singh for a golden duck on the very next delivery. Axar Patel chipped in with the wicket of Tejaswi Singh, while Rovman Powell’s 29 off 21 offered short resistance for his team. Mitchell Starc also joined the wicket-taking group, dismissing Anukul Roy and Kartik Tyagi. In the end, Ngidi wrapped up the innings by removing Varun Chakravarthy as KKR were bowled out for 163.

A brilliant fifty from KL Rahul guided DC to 203/5, while Kuldeep Yadav and Lungi Ngidi claimed three wickets each as KKR were bundled out for 163.

IPL 2026: DC end season on high with dominant 40-run win over KKR

The IPL 2026 playoff line-up was finalised on Sunday (May 24) after Rajasthan Royals secured a convincing 30-run victory over Mumbai Indians at the Wankhede Stadium, clinching the last remaining spot in the top four. The battle for the fourth playoff position had intensified in recent days, with Rajasthan Royals, Kolkata Knight Riders and Punjab Kings all in contention.&nbsp;&nbsp;While defeats for Kolkata and Rajasthan would have handed Punjab Kings the qualification advantage, but Royals removed all uncertainty with a dominant display. Their emphatic win not only confirmed their own qualification but also ended the campaigns of PBKS and KKR.&nbsp;&nbsp;RR now joins the three already-qualified teams in the IPL 2026 knockout stage, concluding a tense mid-table battle for the final berth.<h3>IPL 2026 playoff schedule</h3>The playoffs will get underway on May 26 in Dharamsala with Qualifier 1 between table-toppers Royal Challengers Bengaluru and second-placed Gujarat Titans. The winner will secure a direct entry into the final, while the losing team will receive another opportunity to reach the title clash.&nbsp;Also Read - <a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/ipl-2026-rajasthan-royals-clinch-final-playoff-spot-pbks-and-kkr-eliminated-1779630604300">IPL 2026: Rajasthan Royals clinch final playoff spot, PBKS and KKR eliminated</a>&nbsp;The Eliminator will take place on May 27 in Mullanpur, where third-placed Sunrisers Hyderabad will face Rajasthan Royals, who ended the league stage in fourth position. The losing side will be eliminated, while the winner will move on to face the loser of Qualifier 1.&nbsp;Qualifier 2 is scheduled for May 29 in Mullanpur and will feature the Eliminator winner against the team that loses Qualifier 1. The victorious side from that contest will advance to the final in Ahmedabad on May 31.&nbsp;Also Read - <a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/ipl-2026-pathirana-ruled-out-kkr-sign-luvnith-sisodia-as-replacement-1779623184637">IPL 2026: Pathirana ruled out, KKR sign Luvnith Sisodia as replacement</a><h3>MI vs RR&nbsp;</h3>Rajasthan Royals booked their playoff berth with an impressive all-round performance against Mumbai Indians. Batting first, Rajasthan Royals posted a competitive 205/8 in their 20 overs, with Dhruv Jurel leading the scoring with 38 off 26 balls, while Jofra Archer provided late fireworks with a quick 32 from 15 deliveries.&nbsp;In reply, Mumbai Indians managed 175/9 despite a fighting 60 from Suryakumar Yadav and useful contributions from Will Jacks (33) and Hardik Pandya (34).&nbsp;Jofra Archer starred with the ball for Rajasthan Royals, returning impressive figures of 3/17 in four overs. Nandre Burger, Brijesh Sharma and Yash Raj Punja also contributed with two wickets each.

Rajasthan Royals secured the final IPL 2026 playoff berth with a 30-run win over Mumbai Indians and will now take on Sunrisers Hyderabad in the Eliminator, while Royal Challengers Bengaluru are set to face Gujarat Titans in Qualifier 1.

The IPL 2026 playoff line-up was finalised on Sunday (May 24) after Rajasthan Royals secured a convincing 30-run victory over Mumbai Indians at the Wankhede Stadium, clinching the last remaining spot in the top four. The battle for the fourth playoff position had intensified in recent days, with Rajasthan Royals, Kolkata Knight Riders and Punjab Kings all in contention. While defeats for Kolkata and Rajasthan would have handed Punjab Kings the qualification advantage, but Royals removed all uncertainty with a dominant display. Their emphatic win not only confirmed their own qualification but also ended the campaigns of PBKS and KKR. RR now joins the three already-qualified teams in the IPL 2026 knockout stage, concluding a tense mid-table battle for the final berth. IPL 2026 playoff schedule The playoffs will get underway on May 26 in Dharamsala with Qualifier 1 between table-toppers Royal Challengers Bengaluru and second-placed Gujarat Titans. The winner will secure a direct entry into the final, while the losing team will receive another opportunity to reach the title clash. Also Read - IPL 2026: Rajasthan Royals clinch final playoff spot, PBKS and KKR eliminated The Eliminator will take place on May 27 in Mullanpur, where third-placed Sunrisers Hyderabad will face Rajasthan Royals, who ended the league stage in fourth position. The losing side will be eliminated, while the winner will move on to face the loser of Qualifier 1. Qualifier 2 is scheduled for May 29 in Mullanpur and will feature the Eliminator winner against the team that loses Qualifier 1. The victorious side from that contest will advance to the final in Ahmedabad on May 31. Also Read - IPL 2026: Pathirana ruled out, KKR sign Luvnith Sisodia as replacement MI vs RR Rajasthan Royals booked their playoff berth with an impressive all-round performance against Mumbai Indians. Batting first, Rajasthan Royals posted a competitive 205/8 in their 20 overs, with Dhruv Jurel leading the scoring with 38 off 26 balls, while Jofra Archer provided late fireworks with a quick 32 from 15 deliveries. In reply, Mumbai Indians managed 175/9 despite a fighting 60 from Suryakumar Yadav and useful contributions from Will Jacks (33) and Hardik Pandya (34). Jofra Archer starred with the ball for Rajasthan Royals, returning impressive figures of 3/17 in four overs. Nandre Burger, Brijesh Sharma and Yash Raj Punja also contributed with two wickets each.

Rajasthan Royals secured the final IPL 2026 playoff berth with a 30-run win over Mumbai Indians and will now take on Sunrisers Hyderabad in the Eliminator, while Royal Challengers Bengaluru are set to face Gujarat Titans in Qualifier 1.

IPL 2026 Playoffs: RCB set to face GT in Qualifier 1, SRH meet RR in Eliminator

Rajasthan Royals secured the fourth and final playoff spot in IPL 2026 with a 30-run victory over Mumbai Indians on Sunday (May 24), ending the qualification hopes of Punjab Kings and Delhi Capitals. The win took RR to 16 points from 14 matches, moving them ahead of Punjab Kings, who finished with 15 points. Kolkata Knight Riders, who play Delhi Capitals later on Sunday, can also only reach a maximum of 15 points.&nbsp;Earlier in the match, Mumbai Indians won the toss and opted to field. Batting first, Rajasthan Royals posted a competitive 205/8 in their 20 overs, with Dhruv Jurel leading the scoring with 38 off 26 balls. Jofra Archer provided late fireworks with a quick 32 from 15 deliveries, while Dasun Shanaka (29) and Yashasvi Jaiswal (27) chipped in with valuable contributions.&nbsp;Also Read - <a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/ipl-2026-pathirana-ruled-out-kkr-sign-luvnith-sisodia-as-replacement-1779623184637">IPL 2026: Pathirana ruled out, KKR sign Luvnith Sisodia as replacement</a>&nbsp;For Mumbai Indians, Deepak Chahar and Shardul Thakur claimed two wickets each, conceding 43 and 41 runs respectively. Will Jacks, Corbin Bosch and AM Ghazanfar picked up a wicket apiece.&nbsp;Also Read - <a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/fifa-world-cup-2026-iran-shift-training-camp-from-us-to-mexico-ahead-of-kickoff-1779613999747">FIFA World Cup 2026: Iran shift training camp from US to Mexico ahead of kickoff</a>&nbsp;In reply, MI were restricted to 175/9 and fell 30 runs short of the target. Suryakumar Yadav top-scored with 60 off 42 balls, including four sixes and three boundaries. Will Jacks (33) and Hardik Pandya (34) got starts but failed to take the side over the line.&nbsp;Jofra Archer starred with the ball for Rajasthan Royals, returning impressive figures of 3/17 in four overs. Nandre Burger, Brijesh Sharma and Yash Raj Punja also contributed with two wickets each.&nbsp;Rajasthan Royals will now take on Sunrisers Hyderabad in the Eliminator on May 27 in New Chandigarh.

Rajasthan Royals beat Mumbai Indians by 30 runs to move to 16 points from 14 matches, surpassing PBKS’ total of 15 points. Kolkata Knight Riders, meanwhile, can finish with a maximum of only 15 points.

Rajasthan Royals secured the fourth and final playoff spot in IPL 2026 with a 30-run victory over Mumbai Indians on Sunday (May 24), ending the qualification hopes of Punjab Kings and Delhi Capitals. The win took RR to 16 points from 14 matches, moving them ahead of Punjab Kings, who finished with 15 points. Kolkata Knight Riders, who play Delhi Capitals later on Sunday, can also only reach a maximum of 15 points. Earlier in the match, Mumbai Indians won the toss and opted to field. Batting first, Rajasthan Royals posted a competitive 205/8 in their 20 overs, with Dhruv Jurel leading the scoring with 38 off 26 balls. Jofra Archer provided late fireworks with a quick 32 from 15 deliveries, while Dasun Shanaka (29) and Yashasvi Jaiswal (27) chipped in with valuable contributions. Also Read - IPL 2026: Pathirana ruled out, KKR sign Luvnith Sisodia as replacement For Mumbai Indians, Deepak Chahar and Shardul Thakur claimed two wickets each, conceding 43 and 41 runs respectively. Will Jacks, Corbin Bosch and AM Ghazanfar picked up a wicket apiece. Also Read - FIFA World Cup 2026: Iran shift training camp from US to Mexico ahead of kickoff In reply, MI were restricted to 175/9 and fell 30 runs short of the target. Suryakumar Yadav top-scored with 60 off 42 balls, including four sixes and three boundaries. Will Jacks (33) and Hardik Pandya (34) got starts but failed to take the side over the line. Jofra Archer starred with the ball for Rajasthan Royals, returning impressive figures of 3/17 in four overs. Nandre Burger, Brijesh Sharma and Yash Raj Punja also contributed with two wickets each. Rajasthan Royals will now take on Sunrisers Hyderabad in the Eliminator on May 27 in New Chandigarh.

Rajasthan Royals beat Mumbai Indians by 30 runs to move to 16 points from 14 matches, surpassing PBKS’ total of 15 points. Kolkata Knight Riders, meanwhile, can finish with a maximum of only 15 points.

IPL 2026: Rajasthan Royals clinch final playoff spot, PBKS and KKR eliminated

From Chris Gayle to Rajat Patidar, here's a look at the top five best replacement players in IPL history. This list also includes Phil Salt, Jake Fraser-McGurk and Anrich Nortje.

From Chris Gayle to Rajat Patidar, here's a look at the top five best replacement players in IPL history. This list also includes Phil Salt, Jake Fraser-McGurk and Anrich Nortje.

From Chris Gayle to Rajat Patidar, 5 best replacement players in IPL history

Kolkata Knight Riders have brought in Luvnith Sisodia as a replacement for Matheesha Pathirana for the remainder of the Indian Premier League 2026 season. The Sri Lankan fast bowler, who was signed by KKR for INR 18 crore, has been sidelined after suffering a hamstring injury. He had earlier missed the start of IPL 2026 due to a calf injury sustained during the T20 World Cup, although he later returned to make his debut for the franchise, but another injury setback has now ended his season.&nbsp;In an official media advisory, the franchise confirmed that Sisodia would replace the injured Pathirana for the rest of the tournament.&nbsp;&nbsp;"Kolkata Knight Riders (KKR) have picked Luvnith Sisodia as a replacement for the injured Matheesha Pathirana for the remainder of the TATA Indian Premier League (IPL) 2026. Matheesha Pathirana, a right-arm pacer, is ruled out of the season due to a hamstring injury. Sisodia, a wicketkeeper-batter, was previously a part of Royal Challengers Bengaluru (RCB) and KKR in the IPL. Sisodia, who represents Karnataka in Domestic Cricket, has played 15 T20S and has 124 runs against his name from the same. He will join KKR for INR 30 Lakh," as per a Media Advisory.&nbsp;Also Read - <a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/ipl-2026-why-jasprit-bumrah-is-not-playing-for-mi-vs-rajasthan-royals-1779616624869">IPL 2026: Why Jasprit Bumrah is not playing for MI vs Rajasthan Royals?</a>&nbsp;Sisodia, a wicketkeeper-batter from Karnataka, returns to the KKR setup after previously being associated with both Royal Challengers Bengaluru and KKR in the IPL. The youngster has featured in 15 T20 matches so far, scoring 124 runs and has now been signed by Kolkata for INR 30 lakh.

Kolkata Knight Riders have signed wicketkeeper-batter Luvnith Sisodia as a replacement for injured Sri Lankan pacer Pathirana, who has been ruled out of the IPL with a hamstring injury.

Kolkata Knight Riders have brought in Luvnith Sisodia as a replacement for Matheesha Pathirana for the remainder of the Indian Premier League 2026 season. The Sri Lankan fast bowler, who was signed by KKR for INR 18 crore, has been sidelined after suffering a hamstring injury. He had earlier missed the start of IPL 2026 due to a calf injury sustained during the T20 World Cup, although he later returned to make his debut for the franchise, but another injury setback has now ended his season. In an official media advisory, the franchise confirmed that Sisodia would replace the injured Pathirana for the rest of the tournament. "Kolkata Knight Riders (KKR) have picked Luvnith Sisodia as a replacement for the injured Matheesha Pathirana for the remainder of the TATA Indian Premier League (IPL) 2026. Matheesha Pathirana, a right-arm pacer, is ruled out of the season due to a hamstring injury. Sisodia, a wicketkeeper-batter, was previously a part of Royal Challengers Bengaluru (RCB) and KKR in the IPL. Sisodia, who represents Karnataka in Domestic Cricket, has played 15 T20S and has 124 runs against his name from the same. He will join KKR for INR 30 Lakh," as per a Media Advisory. Also Read - IPL 2026: Why Jasprit Bumrah is not playing for MI vs Rajasthan Royals? Sisodia, a wicketkeeper-batter from Karnataka, returns to the KKR setup after previously being associated with both Royal Challengers Bengaluru and KKR in the IPL. The youngster has featured in 15 T20 matches so far, scoring 124 runs and has now been signed by Kolkata for INR 30 lakh.

Kolkata Knight Riders have signed wicketkeeper-batter Luvnith Sisodia as a replacement for injured Sri Lankan pacer Pathirana, who has been ruled out of the IPL with a hamstring injury.

IPL 2026: Pathirana ruled out, KKR sign Luvnith Sisodia as replacement

After Punjab Kings’ crucial seven-wicket victory over Lucknow Super Giants, assistant coach Brad Haddin praised captain Shreyas Iyer for stepping up when the team needed him most. The result keeps Punjab playoff hopes alive and puts them in a strong position heading into the final phase of the tournament. The win was built on a strong all-round effort, as Marco Jansen and Yuzvendra Chahal claimed two wickets apiece to keep LSG to 196/6, despite a fighting 72 off 44 balls from Josh Inglis.&nbsp;Chasing the target, Prabhsimran Singh provided early momentum with a fluent 69 from just 39 deliveries before captain Shreyas Iyer took complete control and smashed an unbeaten 101 off 51 balls, his first IPL hundred, as Punjab sealed the chase comfortably before the 19th over.&nbsp;Speaking after the match, Haddin said Iyer looked determined to take responsibility in a high-pressure encounter.&nbsp;“In these matches, you want your best players to stand up. These are the matches where everything is on the line. For the last couple of days, the captain had that look in his eye. He wanted to be the one who made the difference and turned things around, and he gave us an opportunity to play in the finals. You got a long way to see a better inning and a better captain's knock than that,” Haddin said.&nbsp;Also Read - <a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/ipl-2026-why-jasprit-bumrah-is-not-playing-for-mi-vs-rajasthan-royals-1779616624869">IPL 2026: Why Jasprit Bumrah is not playing for MI vs Rajasthan Royals?</a>&nbsp;He further added, "He wanted to be the one to make the difference, and that is what you want from your leaders, whether it's for IPL or for your country. You want your leaders owning those big moments, and that is what he did."&nbsp;Haddin also applauded the team’s overall effort, pointing out that the bowlers created early pressure by striking in the powerplay. He singled out Azmatullah Omarzai for his contribution with the ball and praised both Prabhsimran and Iyer for steering the chase confidently.&nbsp;"If you have a look through the whole game, we did well to get wickets to start. It is important to get wickets up front in power play. I thought our bowlers did a really good job there. Azmatullah did a really good job. And then Prabh and the captain with the bat were outstanding. Prabh took a smart stumping. As an ex-keeper, I was proud of him there, but he set up the inning beautifully," the assistant coach noted.&nbsp;With this final league stage victory, Punjab Kings have climbed to the fourth spot on the points table with 15 points, with their playoff qualification now hinging entirely on the final league clash between Rajasthan Royals and Mumbai Indians.&nbsp;&nbsp;With inputs from agencies

With this final league stage victory, Punjab Kings have climbed to the fourth spot on the points table with 15 points and their playoff qualification now hinging entirely on the clash between Rajasthan Royals and Mumbai Indians. 

After Punjab Kings’ crucial seven-wicket victory over Lucknow Super Giants, assistant coach Brad Haddin praised captain Shreyas Iyer for stepping up when the team needed him most. The result keeps Punjab playoff hopes alive and puts them in a strong position heading into the final phase of the tournament. The win was built on a strong all-round effort, as Marco Jansen and Yuzvendra Chahal claimed two wickets apiece to keep LSG to 196/6, despite a fighting 72 off 44 balls from Josh Inglis. Chasing the target, Prabhsimran Singh provided early momentum with a fluent 69 from just 39 deliveries before captain Shreyas Iyer took complete control and smashed an unbeaten 101 off 51 balls, his first IPL hundred, as Punjab sealed the chase comfortably before the 19th over. Speaking after the match, Haddin said Iyer looked determined to take responsibility in a high-pressure encounter. “In these matches, you want your best players to stand up. These are the matches where everything is on the line. For the last couple of days, the captain had that look in his eye. He wanted to be the one who made the difference and turned things around, and he gave us an opportunity to play in the finals. You got a long way to see a better inning and a better captain's knock than that,” Haddin said. Also Read - IPL 2026: Why Jasprit Bumrah is not playing for MI vs Rajasthan Royals? He further added, "He wanted to be the one to make the difference, and that is what you want from your leaders, whether it's for IPL or for your country. You want your leaders owning those big moments, and that is what he did." Haddin also applauded the team’s overall effort, pointing out that the bowlers created early pressure by striking in the powerplay. He singled out Azmatullah Omarzai for his contribution with the ball and praised both Prabhsimran and Iyer for steering the chase confidently. "If you have a look through the whole game, we did well to get wickets to start. It is important to get wickets up front in power play. I thought our bowlers did a really good job there. Azmatullah did a really good job. And then Prabh and the captain with the bat were outstanding. Prabh took a smart stumping. As an ex-keeper, I was proud of him there, but he set up the inning beautifully," the assistant coach noted. With this final league stage victory, Punjab Kings have climbed to the fourth spot on the points table with 15 points, with their playoff qualification now hinging entirely on the final league clash between Rajasthan Royals and Mumbai Indians. With inputs from agencies

With this final league stage victory, Punjab Kings have climbed to the fourth spot on the points table with 15 points and their playoff qualification now hinging entirely on the clash between Rajasthan Royals and Mumbai Indians.&nbsp;

'Iyer wanted to be one who made the difference': PBKS coach hails skipper after win over LSG

Star Indian pacer Jasprit Bumrah was left out of Mumbai Indians’s final league-stage fixture of IPL 2026 against Rajasthan Royals at the Wankhede Stadium on Sunday (May 24). At the toss, MI captain Hardik Pandya confirmed that Bumrah had been rested for the match, while Deepak Chahar returned to the side. After winning the toss, Pandya chose to bowl first and briefly stated, “Jassi is resting and Deepak comes in.”&nbsp;Despite being Mumbai Indians’ all-time leading wicket-taker in IPL history, Bumrah had a disappointing campaign this season, as he managed to claim only four wickets in 13 matches during IPL 2026.&nbsp;Bumrah was also rested from India’s ODI and Test squads for the upcoming home series against Afghanistan as part of workload management. He is expected to make his return in the white-ball series against England later this year.&nbsp;Also Read - <a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/watch-video-lucknow-police-take-swift-action-after-fans-harass-cheerleaders-during-lsg-pbks-match-1779612124188">WATCH | Lucknow police take swift action after fans harass cheerleaders during LSG-PBKS match</a>&nbsp;Meanwhile, Shardul Thakur made his return to Mumbai’s playing XI. He had been left out of the previous match against Kolkata Knight Riders, even after his impressive four-wicket haul against Punjab Kings in Dharamsala earlier this month.&nbsp;Veteran opener Rohit Sharma was listed among the impact substitutes and is expected to open the batting for MI during the chase.&nbsp;Also Read - <a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/ipl-2026-playoff-qualification-scenarios-how-can-pbks-rr-kkr-qualify-for-top-four-1779606647681">Playoff Qualification Scenarios: How can PBKS, RR, or KKR qualify for top four?</a>&nbsp;On the other side, Rajasthan Royals made three changes to their lineup for the crucial encounter. Riyan Parag returned to the side and also resumed captaincy duties.&nbsp;&nbsp;Playing XIs&nbsp;Mumbai Indians: Ryan Rickelton (WK), Naman Dhir, Suryakumar Yadav, Tilak Varma, Hardik Pandya (C), Will Jacks, Corbin Bosch, Deepak Chahar, Shardul Thakur, AM Ghazanfar and Raghu Sharma&nbsp;Impact subs: Rohit Sharma, Mayank Rawat, Robin Minz, Krish Bhagat and Trent Boult&nbsp;Rajasthan Royals: Yashasvi Jaiswal, Vaibhav Sooryavanshi, Dhruv Jurel (WK), Riyan Parag (C), Donovan Ferreira, Shubham Dubey, Dasun Shanaka, Jofra Archer, Nandre Burger, Yash Raj Punja and Brijesh Sharma&nbsp;Impact subs: Ravindra Jadeja, Sushant Mishra, Aman Rao Perala, Ravi Bishnoi and Tushar Deshpande

Jasprit Bumrah had a disappointing IPL 2026 campaign, managing only four wickets in 13 matches and finishing with a bowling average of 102.5.

Star Indian pacer Jasprit Bumrah was left out of Mumbai Indians’s final league-stage fixture of IPL 2026 against Rajasthan Royals at the Wankhede Stadium on Sunday (May 24). At the toss, MI captain Hardik Pandya confirmed that Bumrah had been rested for the match, while Deepak Chahar returned to the side. After winning the toss, Pandya chose to bowl first and briefly stated, “Jassi is resting and Deepak comes in.” Despite being Mumbai Indians’ all-time leading wicket-taker in IPL history, Bumrah had a disappointing campaign this season, as he managed to claim only four wickets in 13 matches during IPL 2026. Bumrah was also rested from India’s ODI and Test squads for the upcoming home series against Afghanistan as part of workload management. He is expected to make his return in the white-ball series against England later this year. Also Read - WATCH | Lucknow police take swift action after fans harass cheerleaders during LSG-PBKS match Meanwhile, Shardul Thakur made his return to Mumbai’s playing XI. He had been left out of the previous match against Kolkata Knight Riders, even after his impressive four-wicket haul against Punjab Kings in Dharamsala earlier this month. Veteran opener Rohit Sharma was listed among the impact substitutes and is expected to open the batting for MI during the chase. Also Read - Playoff Qualification Scenarios: How can PBKS, RR, or KKR qualify for top four? On the other side, Rajasthan Royals made three changes to their lineup for the crucial encounter. Riyan Parag returned to the side and also resumed captaincy duties. Playing XIs Mumbai Indians: Ryan Rickelton (WK), Naman Dhir, Suryakumar Yadav, Tilak Varma, Hardik Pandya (C), Will Jacks, Corbin Bosch, Deepak Chahar, Shardul Thakur, AM Ghazanfar and Raghu Sharma Impact subs: Rohit Sharma, Mayank Rawat, Robin Minz, Krish Bhagat and Trent Boult Rajasthan Royals: Yashasvi Jaiswal, Vaibhav Sooryavanshi, Dhruv Jurel (WK), Riyan Parag (C), Donovan Ferreira, Shubham Dubey, Dasun Shanaka, Jofra Archer, Nandre Burger, Yash Raj Punja and Brijesh Sharma Impact subs: Ravindra Jadeja, Sushant Mishra, Aman Rao Perala, Ravi Bishnoi and Tushar Deshpande

Jasprit Bumrah had a disappointing IPL 2026 campaign, managing only four wickets in 13 matches and finishing with a bowling average of 102.5.

IPL 2026: Why Jasprit Bumrah is not playing for MI vs Rajasthan Royals?

Shreyas Iyer just became the fourth captain in IPL history to smash a century during a run chase! From Virender Sehwag’s 2011 blitz to Virat Kohli and Sanju Samson's heroics, we break down the exclusive list of leaders who scored a hundred while chasing.

Shreyas Iyer just became the fourth captain in IPL history to smash a century during a run chase! From Virender Sehwag’s 2011 blitz to Virat Kohli and Sanju Samson's heroics, we break down the exclusive list of leaders who scored a hundred while chasing.

From Shreyas Iyer to Sanju Samson, 4 IPL Captains to Score Hundred in Run Chase

The Lucknow police had to step in quickly on Saturday night (May 23) after a section of the crowd began harassing cheerleaders during LSG's final league match against PBKS. The ugly incident unfolded midway through the game when a few individuals were caught on camera throwing paper balls at the cheerleaders, who even openly warned the fans to stop. While the rest of the Ekana Stadium was locked in the high-stakes excitement of a match that Punjab eventually won, this mindless behaviour cast a dark shadow over what should have been a celebration of cricket.&nbsp;The viral video of that instance is all over the internet. However, soon after a section of fans threw paper balls at the cheerleaders, who were sitting on the sidelines of their netted stage, the Lucknow police were quick to hop onto the scene and take action against the accused. The ground staff also joined in, giving stern warnings to the fans.&nbsp;WATCH VIDEO HERE -

The Lucknow police had to step in quickly on Saturday night (May 23) after a section of the crowd began harassing cheerleaders during LSG's final league match against PBKS. The ugly incident unfolded midway through the game when a few individuals were caught on camera throwing paper balls at the cheerleaders, who even openly warned the fans to stop. While the rest of the Ekana Stadium was locked in the high-stakes excitement of a match that Punjab eventually won, this mindless behaviour cast a dark shadow over what should have been a celebration of cricket.
The viral video of that instance is all over the internet. However, soon after a section of fans threw paper balls at the cheerleaders, who were sitting on the sidelines of their netted stage, the Lucknow police were quick to hop onto the scene and take action against the accused. The ground staff also joined in, giving stern warnings to the fans.
WATCH VIDEO -
What happened between the LSG and PBKS clash?
Punjab won the toss and elected to field first. Reducing the hosts to 20 for two inside the Powerplay and later 69 for three, PBKS almost had LSG in their pockets. However, game-changing knocks from opener Josh Inglis (72 off 44 balls), Ayush Badoni (43 off 18), and captain Rishabh Pant (26) helped LSG rebuild. Despite more fireworks from Abdul Samad (37* off just 20 balls) and a last-over drama, involving denying Arjun Tendulkar a single thrice, LSG posted 196 for six in 20 overs.
Iyer’s showtime in Lucknow
Punjab Kings lost opener Priyansh Arya on a first-ball duck off Mohammed Shami, who also removed Cooper Connolly on 18 inside the first six overs. Prabhsimran Singh and PBKS captain Shreyas Iyer bailed the team out of trouble, stitching a 140-run stand for the third wicket. 
After losing Prabhsimran on a brilliant 69 off just 39 balls, Iyer joined hands with Suryansh Shedge and smashed boundaries for fun. He completed his maiden IPL hundred with a grand six, his fifth of the evening, to see his team home in their last league game.
That six and his hundred ensured a seven-wicket win for Punjab, who are now placed fourth on the points table with 15 points from 14 matches. Sunday’s results will determine their playoff fate, with the Rajasthan Royals and Kolkata Knight Riders also vying for that one spot.

<h3>What happened between the LSG and PBKS clash?</h3>Punjab won the toss and elected to field first. Reducing the hosts to 20 for two inside the Powerplay and later 69 for three, PBKS almost had LSG in their pockets. However, game-changing knocks from opener Josh Inglis (72 off 44 balls), Ayush Badoni (43 off 18), and captain Rishabh Pant (26) helped LSG rebuild. Despite more fireworks from Abdul Samad (37* off just 20 balls) and a last-over drama, involving denying Arjun Tendulkar a single thrice, LSG posted 196 for six in 20 overs.&nbsp;Also read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/ipl-2026-playoff-qualification-scenarios-how-can-pbks-rr-kkr-qualify-for-top-four-1779606647681">IPL 2026 Playoff Qualification Scenarios: How can PBKS, RR, or KKR qualify for top four?</a><h3>Iyer’s showtime in Lucknow</h3>Punjab Kings lost opener Priyansh Arya on a first-ball duck off Mohammed Shami, who also removed Cooper Connolly on 18 inside the first six overs. Prabhsimran Singh and PBKS captain Shreyas Iyer bailed the team out of trouble, stitching a 140-run stand for the third wicket.&nbsp; &nbsp;After losing Prabhsimran on a brilliant 69 off just 39 balls, Iyer joined hands with Suryansh Shedge and smashed boundaries for fun. He completed his maiden IPL hundred with a grand six, his fifth of the evening, to see his team home in their last league game. That six and his hundred ensured a seven-wicket win for Punjab, who are now placed fourth on the points table with 15 points from 14 matches.&nbsp;Sunday’s results will determine their playoff fate, with the Rajasthan Royals and Kolkata Knight Riders also vying for that one spot.

Ugly scenes at Ekana Stadium as Lucknow police take swift action against fans harassing cheerleaders during the LSG-PBKS thriller. Plus, read the full match report as captain Shreyas Iyer smashes a spectacular maiden century to keep Punjab's playoff dreams alive.

The Lucknow police had to step in quickly on Saturday night (May 23) after a section of the crowd began harassing cheerleaders during LSG's final league match against PBKS. The ugly incident unfolded midway through the game when a few individuals were caught on camera throwing paper balls at the cheerleaders, who even openly warned the fans to stop. While the rest of the Ekana Stadium was locked in the high-stakes excitement of a match that Punjab eventually won, this mindless behaviour cast a dark shadow over what should have been a celebration of cricket. The viral video of that instance is all over the internet. However, soon after a section of fans threw paper balls at the cheerleaders, who were sitting on the sidelines of their netted stage, the Lucknow police were quick to hop onto the scene and take action against the accused. The ground staff also joined in, giving stern warnings to the fans. WATCH VIDEO HERE -

Ugly scenes at Ekana Stadium as Lucknow police take swift action against fans harassing cheerleaders during the LSG-PBKS thriller. Plus, read the full match report as captain Shreyas Iyer smashes a spectacular maiden century to keep Punjab's playoff dreams alive.

WATCH | Lucknow police take swift action after fans harass cheerleaders during LSG-PBKS match

Who wins the final IPL 2026 playoff spot will be decided on the last day of the league stage, with Rajasthan Royals and Kolkata Knight Riders, alongside Punjab Kings, in the race for a place in the final four. After Punjab beat the Lucknow Super Giants on Saturday night (May 23), the bare minimum result they needed to give themselves any chance, the Royals and the Knight Riders will decide who goes through. Both have their fates in their own hands, yet neither is guaranteed a spot. Let’s explore their playoff qualification scenarios.<h3>How can Punjab qualify for the IPL 2026 playoffs?</h3>Punjab has completed its quota of 14 league matches, winning seven, losing six and one game ending in a no result. Having accumulated 15 points, the Kings are ahead of the Royals (14) and Knight Riders (13); however, the two have one game remaining, to be played on Sunday (May 24). While the Royals are facing the Mumbai Indians, Kolkata will host the Delhi Capitals.&nbsp;Also read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/punjab-kings-captain-shreyas-iyer-opens-up-on-maiden-ipl-hundred-crucial-win-vs-lsg-ipl-2026-playoff-qualification-scenarios-1779597859982">‘I felt super from within’: Shreyas Iyer opens up on maiden IPL hundred, crucial win for PBKS</a> &nbsp;For the Kings to qualify, the easy equation is that Mumbai must beat Rajasthan and Delhi must beat Kolkata. Should the opposite&nbsp;happen and Rajasthan beat Mumbai, it all ends for Punjab and Kolkata.&nbsp; &nbsp;However, if Kolkata beat Delhi, Punjab can still qualify, only if KKR beats DC by less than 60-65 runs or fails to chase any target within 12.5 overs.<h3>How can Rajasthan qualify for the IPL 2026 playoffs?</h3>For Rajasthan to advance to the next stage, they only need to beat the Mumbai Indians at the Wankhede Stadium in the afternoon. Should that happen, regardless of what happens in the evening match between KKR and DC, the Royals will become the fourth team to qualify for IPL 2026 playoffs, kicking PBKS and KKR out of the race.<h3>How can Kolkata qualify for the IPL 2026 playoffs?</h3>The trickiest of the three is KKR’s case, which is below PBKS and RR on the points table (with a lower NRR). Sitting in the sixth place with 13 points and a +0.011 NRR, KKR needs more than just a win over DC in their last league game. &nbsp;Not only do they have to beat Delhi, but they must also do it quickly, either batting first or second.&nbsp;&nbsp;Should Mumbai beat Rajasthan, Kolkata must look to achieve either of two scenarios to confirm their place in the IPL 2026 playoffs. If KKR bats first and (supposedly) score 180 runs, they must beat Delhi by 60-65 runs to get past PBKS’ NRR, or if they are chasing, KKR must achieve the target in 12.5 overs or less. If they fail, Punjab would advance through.&nbsp;

The final day of the IPL 2026 league stage is here! With Punjab Kings sitting on 15 points, we break down the exact final-day playoff qualification math and net run rate scenarios for Rajasthan Royals and Kolkata Knight Riders. Who grabs the final top-four spot? Read the full breakdown.

Who wins the final IPL 2026 playoff spot will be decided on the last day of the league stage, with Rajasthan Royals and Kolkata Knight Riders, alongside Punjab Kings, in the race for a place in the final four. After Punjab beat the Lucknow Super Giants on Saturday night (May 23), the bare minimum result they needed to give themselves any chance, the Royals and the Knight Riders will decide who goes through. Both have their fates in their own hands, yet neither is guaranteed a spot. Let’s explore their playoff qualification scenarios. How can Punjab qualify for the IPL 2026 playoffs? Punjab has completed its quota of 14 league matches, winning seven, losing six and one game ending in a no result. Having accumulated 15 points, the Kings are ahead of the Royals (14) and Knight Riders (13); however, the two have one game remaining, to be played on Sunday (May 24). While the Royals are facing the Mumbai Indians, Kolkata will host the Delhi Capitals. Also read | ‘I felt super from within’: Shreyas Iyer opens up on maiden IPL hundred, crucial win for PBKS For the Kings to qualify, the easy equation is that Mumbai must beat Rajasthan and Delhi must beat Kolkata. Should the opposite happen and Rajasthan beat Mumbai, it all ends for Punjab and Kolkata. However, if Kolkata beat Delhi, Punjab can still qualify, only if KKR beats DC by less than 60-65 runs or fails to chase any target within 12.5 overs. How can Rajasthan qualify for the IPL 2026 playoffs? For Rajasthan to advance to the next stage, they only need to beat the Mumbai Indians at the Wankhede Stadium in the afternoon. Should that happen, regardless of what happens in the evening match between KKR and DC, the Royals will become the fourth team to qualify for IPL 2026 playoffs, kicking PBKS and KKR out of the race. How can Kolkata qualify for the IPL 2026 playoffs? The trickiest of the three is KKR’s case, which is below PBKS and RR on the points table (with a lower NRR). Sitting in the sixth place with 13 points and a +0.011 NRR, KKR needs more than just a win over DC in their last league game. Not only do they have to beat Delhi, but they must also do it quickly, either batting first or second. Should Mumbai beat Rajasthan, Kolkata must look to achieve either of two scenarios to confirm their place in the IPL 2026 playoffs. If KKR bats first and (supposedly) score 180 runs, they must beat Delhi by 60-65 runs to get past PBKS’ NRR, or if they are chasing, KKR must achieve the target in 12.5 overs or less. If they fail, Punjab would advance through.

The final day of the IPL 2026 league stage is here! With Punjab Kings sitting on 15 points, we break down the exact final-day playoff qualification math and net run rate scenarios for Rajasthan Royals and Kolkata Knight Riders. Who grabs the final top-four spot? Read the full breakdown.

IPL 2026 Playoff Qualification Scenarios: How can PBKS, RR, or KKR qualify for top four?

Punjab Kings (PBKS) captain Shreyas Iyer led his team from the front in the do-or-die match against the Lucknow Super Giants (LSG) on Saturday (May 23), beating them by seven wickets. They needed to win this match to stay alive in the playoff race, and they did it in style, with Iyer smashing his maiden IPL hundred to help the cause. Chasing 198, Punjab completed the target with two overs to spare; Iyer hit his fifth six to get to his century (101* off 51 balls) and the winning run.&nbsp;Feeling ecstatic about his feat and the moment, Iyer sounded elated and proud with the outcome and how he led the chase in this virtual knockout for the Kings. Speaking his heart out in the post-match presser, Iyer said, "It's a surreal feeling, especially when you finish off the game, and you score a century.”&nbsp; &nbsp;Iyer said the way he paced his innings is the stuff of dreams, and it’s one of those days when one feels super from within.&nbsp;

<blockquote class="twitter-tweet">Back to the WINNING ways! 🌟<a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/PBKS?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#PBKS</a> end their losing streak with a 7️⃣-wicket win 👊❤️ Scorecard ▶️ <a href="https://t.co/2ADKr4dqhi">https://t.co/2ADKr4dqhi</a><a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/TATAIPL?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#TATAIPL</a> | <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/KhelBindaas?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#KhelBindaas</a> | <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/LSGvPBKS?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#LSGvPBKS</a> <a href="https://t.co/YP0tImLNYv">pic.twitter.com/YP0tImLNYv</a>&mdash; IndianPremierLeague (@IPL) <a href="https://twitter.com/IPL/status/2058251325687931365?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">May 23, 2026</a></blockquote> <script async src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script>

Also read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/has-rishabh-pant-played-his-last-game-for-lsg-tom-moody-hints-at-leadership-overhaul-after-ipl-2026-debacle-lucknow-vs-punjab-ipl-playoffs-1779594130654">Has Rishabh Pant played his last game for LSG? Moody hints at leadership overhaul after IPL 2026 debacle</a> &nbsp;Meanwhile, having lost six matches on the trot since winning as many at the start of the tournament, Iyer and Punjab needed this day to feel positive about their playoff chances. And after they gave everything on the pitch, Iyer admitted to being in a great mind space, which will benefit last season’s runners-up should they advance to the next stage. &nbsp;“I think all the batsmen, they dream of that, and today was one of those days where I personally felt super from within. I was in a great mind space. I knew what I wanted, I knew how the wicket was playing, kind of reading all this situation, it helped me to score my runs. And also, the partnership was crucial. I think that creates the momentum in the game, and just to win it from there, I'm seriously elated,” he continued.<h3>‘Delighted to work with him’</h3>Having spent time and seasons with Shreyas Iyer at the Delhi Capitals earlier, PBKS head coach Ricky Ponting explained why he spent so much on Iyer (INR 26.75 crore). Speaking highly of his team captain and how he wonderfully won the game for his team, Punter said, "Well, there was a reason I spent as much money at the auction as I did on him a couple of years ago.” &nbsp;"Look, he's a ripping guy. He's a very mature player now, he's a very mature leader. More often than not, he keeps his emotions in check when he's out in the field, but the respect he has from his players is almost second to none. The moment that he stands in front of the group and speaks, not a single eyeball leaves a single word that he says. &nbsp;"I'm delighted to work with him. I'm really happy on the season he's had. It's great to see him back in that Indian one-day team, and I really think there's a bigger, brighter future for him and the Indian T20 team as well,” Ponting added.

Punjab Kings captain Shreyas Iyer smashed a magnificent unbeaten 101 off 51 balls to power PBKS to a vital 7-wicket victory over Lucknow Super Giants. Discover how Iyer and coach Ricky Ponting reacted to the thrilling, must-win IPL 2026 chase.

Punjab Kings (PBKS) captain Shreyas Iyer led his team from the front in the do-or-die match against the Lucknow Super Giants (LSG) on Saturday (May 23), beating them by seven wickets. They needed to win this match to stay alive in the playoff race, and they did it in style, with Iyer smashing his maiden IPL hundred to help the cause. Chasing 198, Punjab completed the target with two overs to spare; Iyer hit his fifth six to get to his century (101* off 51 balls) and the winning run. Feeling ecstatic about his feat and the moment, Iyer sounded elated and proud with the outcome and how he led the chase in this virtual knockout for the Kings. Speaking his heart out in the post-match presser, Iyer said, "It's a surreal feeling, especially when you finish off the game, and you score a century.” Iyer said the way he paced his innings is the stuff of dreams, and it’s one of those days when one feels super from within.

Punjab Kings captain Shreyas Iyer smashed a magnificent unbeaten 101 off 51 balls to power PBKS to a vital 7-wicket victory over Lucknow Super Giants. Discover how Iyer and coach Ricky Ponting reacted to the thrilling, must-win IPL 2026 chase.

‘I felt super from within’: Shreyas Iyer opens up on maiden IPL hundred, crucial win for PBKS

Has Rishabh Pant played his last game for his IPL franchise, Lucknow Super Giants? Perhaps. The LSG captain failed to guide his team into the top four, conceding 10 losses and winning just 4 matches, finishing 10th this season. They finished seventh last season and have lost 18 matches under Pant’s captaincy in total. Already playing with the baggage of the most expensive IPL player, Pant is feeling the heat. After his team’s seven-wicket loss against the Punjab Kings, LSG’s global director of cricket, Tom Moody, has hinted at a change in leadership.&nbsp;Lucknow had all the resources to make the playoffs this season, but poor leadership and the misfortune of not clicking as a unit led to this disaster.&nbsp;&nbsp;Also read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/ipl-2026-shreyas-iyer-s-century-keeps-pbks-playoff-hopes-alive-with-win-over-lsg-1779558491537">IPL 2026: Shreyas Iyer’s century keeps PBKS’ playoff hopes alive with win over LSG</a> &nbsp;"From a captaincy point of view, you know, he's found it challenging, obviously, and the results reflect that," Moody said at the post-match presser.&nbsp; &nbsp;"And you do have to wonder whether that is a pressure that is reflected in his performance with the bat. I know that this season has been a difficult season for us, but we will reflect on it, we'll take time, we'll reflect on it. We'll consider all things,” he added. &nbsp;Moody was clearly, evidently and rightly unhappy with the team’s showing this season, adding that the board and the management would reconsider leadership heading into IPL 2027. Moreover, he also reflected on how the other departments failed to live up to the expectations.&nbsp; &nbsp;"But certainly, we haven't lived up to the expectation or the standard that we expect of ourselves. And certainly, when it comes to the leadership of the franchise, it's certainly something that we'll be taking some very serious consideration to, you know, what it looks like in the future. Like every department, when you do reflect on a season, we will be making some considered decisions, but it certainly looks like that we're needing to consider a reset,” Moody continued. &nbsp;Although Pant has had fantastic seasons with the bat earlier (2018 and 2019), his numbers and strike rate have dipped massively since joining LSG in 2025. The left-hander, who remains India’s Test batting mainstay, has accumulated 581 runs across two seasons, striking at 135.74. &nbsp;With Pant and LSG done with this forgettable season, it remains to be seen how long this marriage sustains. &nbsp;Meanwhile, Punjab beat Lucknow by seven wickets and two overs to spare to win their last league game and keep themselves afloat in the IPL 2026 playoff race.

Has Rishabh Pant played his last match for Lucknow Super Giants? Following a dismal IPL 2026 campaign, LSG director Tom Moody drops heavy hints pointing toward a major captaincy reset. Read the full post-match breakdown.

Has Rishabh Pant played his last game for his IPL franchise, Lucknow Super Giants? Perhaps. The LSG captain failed to guide his team into the top four, conceding 10 losses and winning just 4 matches, finishing 10th this season. They finished seventh last season and have lost 18 matches under Pant’s captaincy in total. Already playing with the baggage of the most expensive IPL player, Pant is feeling the heat. After his team’s seven-wicket loss against the Punjab Kings, LSG’s global director of cricket, Tom Moody, has hinted at a change in leadership. Lucknow had all the resources to make the playoffs this season, but poor leadership and the misfortune of not clicking as a unit led to this disaster. Also read | IPL 2026: Shreyas Iyer’s century keeps PBKS’ playoff hopes alive with win over LSG "From a captaincy point of view, you know, he's found it challenging, obviously, and the results reflect that," Moody said at the post-match presser. "And you do have to wonder whether that is a pressure that is reflected in his performance with the bat. I know that this season has been a difficult season for us, but we will reflect on it, we'll take time, we'll reflect on it. We'll consider all things,” he added. Moody was clearly, evidently and rightly unhappy with the team’s showing this season, adding that the board and the management would reconsider leadership heading into IPL 2027. Moreover, he also reflected on how the other departments failed to live up to the expectations. "But certainly, we haven't lived up to the expectation or the standard that we expect of ourselves. And certainly, when it comes to the leadership of the franchise, it's certainly something that we'll be taking some very serious consideration to, you know, what it looks like in the future. Like every department, when you do reflect on a season, we will be making some considered decisions, but it certainly looks like that we're needing to consider a reset,” Moody continued. Although Pant has had fantastic seasons with the bat earlier (2018 and 2019), his numbers and strike rate have dipped massively since joining LSG in 2025. The left-hander, who remains India’s Test batting mainstay, has accumulated 581 runs across two seasons, striking at 135.74. With Pant and LSG done with this forgettable season, it remains to be seen how long this marriage sustains. Meanwhile, Punjab beat Lucknow by seven wickets and two overs to spare to win their last league game and keep themselves afloat in the IPL 2026 playoff race.

Has Rishabh Pant played his last match for Lucknow Super Giants? Following a dismal IPL 2026 campaign, LSG director Tom Moody drops heavy hints pointing toward a major captaincy reset. Read the full post-match breakdown.

Has Rishabh Pant played his last game for LSG? Moody hints at leadership overhaul after IPL 2026 debacle

Punjab Kings (PBKS) returned to winning ways in style, ending a run of six straight losses with a commanding seven-wicket triumph over Lucknow Super Giants (LSG) at the Ekana Stadium on Saturday (May 23). The result keeps their playoff hopes alive and puts them in a strong position heading into the final phase of the tournament. The win was built on a strong all-round effort, as Marco Jansen and Yuzvendra Chahal claimed two wickets apiece to keep LSG to 196/6, despite a fighting 72 off 44 balls from Josh Inglis.&nbsp;&nbsp;Chasing the target, Prabhsimran Singh provided early momentum with a fluent 69 from just 39 deliveries before captain Shreyas Iyer took complete control and smashed an unbeaten 101 off 51 balls, his first IPL hundred, as Punjab sealed the chase comfortably before the 19th over.&nbsp;The win took Punjab Kings to 15 points from 14 league matches and lifted them back to fourth place in the standings.&nbsp;However, their playoff hopes now depend on other results, as Rajasthan Royals, currently on 14 points, will face Mumbai Indians on Sunday (May 24) and a victory for RR would take them to 16 points and secure the final playoff berth.&nbsp;Kolkata Knight Riders, who have 13 points, will play Delhi Capitals later in the day, are also still in contention if Rajasthan lose to Mumbai. In that scenario, PBKS and KKR could both finish on 15 points, making net run rate decisive in the race for the last knockout spot.&nbsp;Royal Challengers Bengaluru, Sunrisers Hyderabad and Gujarat Titans have already qualified for the playoffs.&nbsp;Also Read - <a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/delhi-high-court-clears-wrestler-vinesh-phogat-for-asian-games-selection-trials-1779540834482">Delhi High Court clears wrestler Vinesh Phogat for Asian Games selection trials</a>&nbsp;Earlier in the match, useful contributions from Josh Inglis (72), Ayush Badoni (43) and Abdul Samad’s unbeaten 37 guided LSG to a competitive 196/6 in their 20 overs.&nbsp;Punjab Kings endured a shaky start to their chase of 197 as Mohammed Shami made an instant impact on his return, dismissing Priyansh Arya with the very first ball before trapping Cooper Connolly with a sharp swinging delivery.&nbsp;PBKS, however, bounced back through skipper Shreyas Iyer and Prabhsimran Singh, who steady the innings and their aggressive approach helped Punjab recover to 65/2 at the end of the PowerPlay.&nbsp;Also Read - <a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/icc-weighs-major-rule-change-on-red-to-pink-ball-switch-in-tests-reports-1779531971965">ICC weighs major rule change on red to pink ball switch in Tests: Reports</a>&nbsp;Prabhsimran kept the scoreboard moving with confident strokeplay and reached his half-century in just 28 deliveries, including a 14-run over against Mohsin Khan. He then stitched together a 100-run stand with Shreyas in only 59 balls.&nbsp;&nbsp;Shreyas also brought up his sixth fifty of the season, all of them coming in run chases. Although Arjun Tendulkar, making his debut for LSG, eventually dismissed Prabhsimran, the PBKS captain carried on the charge and completed his century off the final ball of the chase to seal a comfortable victory for his side.

Shreyas Iyer’s unbeaten 101, following Prabhsimran Singh’s brisk 69, powered PBKS to a successful chase of 197 with two overs remaining as they climbed to fourth place in the standings.

Punjab Kings (PBKS) returned to winning ways in style, ending a run of six straight losses with a commanding seven-wicket triumph over Lucknow Super Giants (LSG) at the Ekana Stadium on Saturday (May 23). The result keeps their playoff hopes alive and puts them in a strong position heading into the final phase of the tournament. The win was built on a strong all-round effort, as Marco Jansen and Yuzvendra Chahal claimed two wickets apiece to keep LSG to 196/6, despite a fighting 72 off 44 balls from Josh Inglis. Chasing the target, Prabhsimran Singh provided early momentum with a fluent 69 from just 39 deliveries before captain Shreyas Iyer took complete control and smashed an unbeaten 101 off 51 balls, his first IPL hundred, as Punjab sealed the chase comfortably before the 19th over. The win took Punjab Kings to 15 points from 14 league matches and lifted them back to fourth place in the standings. However, their playoff hopes now depend on other results, as Rajasthan Royals, currently on 14 points, will face Mumbai Indians on Sunday (May 24) and a victory for RR would take them to 16 points and secure the final playoff berth. Kolkata Knight Riders, who have 13 points, will play Delhi Capitals later in the day, are also still in contention if Rajasthan lose to Mumbai. In that scenario, PBKS and KKR could both finish on 15 points, making net run rate decisive in the race for the last knockout spot. Royal Challengers Bengaluru, Sunrisers Hyderabad and Gujarat Titans have already qualified for the playoffs. Also Read - Delhi High Court clears wrestler Vinesh Phogat for Asian Games selection trials Earlier in the match, useful contributions from Josh Inglis (72), Ayush Badoni (43) and Abdul Samad’s unbeaten 37 guided LSG to a competitive 196/6 in their 20 overs. Punjab Kings endured a shaky start to their chase of 197 as Mohammed Shami made an instant impact on his return, dismissing Priyansh Arya with the very first ball before trapping Cooper Connolly with a sharp swinging delivery. PBKS, however, bounced back through skipper Shreyas Iyer and Prabhsimran Singh, who steady the innings and their aggressive approach helped Punjab recover to 65/2 at the end of the PowerPlay. Also Read - ICC weighs major rule change on red to pink ball switch in Tests: Reports Prabhsimran kept the scoreboard moving with confident strokeplay and reached his half-century in just 28 deliveries, including a 14-run over against Mohsin Khan. He then stitched together a 100-run stand with Shreyas in only 59 balls. Shreyas also brought up his sixth fifty of the season, all of them coming in run chases. Although Arjun Tendulkar, making his debut for LSG, eventually dismissed Prabhsimran, the PBKS captain carried on the charge and completed his century off the final ball of the chase to seal a comfortable victory for his side.

Shreyas Iyer’s unbeaten 101, following Prabhsimran Singh’s brisk 69, powered PBKS to a successful chase of 197 with two overs remaining as they climbed to fourth place in the standings.

IPL 2026: Shreyas Iyer’s century keeps PBKS’ playoff hopes alive with win over LSG

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