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The International Cricket Council (ICC) is reportedly exploring a significant change to traditional Test cricket rules that could allow teams to switch from the red ball to the pink ball during weather-interrupted matches. The proposed move would make it possible for play to continue under floodlights, provided both sides agree to the change.&nbsp;As reported by Cricbuzz, the proposal was discussed during Thursday’s virtual meeting of the ICC Chief Executives Committee, attended by ICC Cricket Committee chairman Sourav Ganguly. Although the idea is still in the discussion phase, several practical aspects remain unresolved, particularly how and when the ball change would be implemented during an ongoing match.&nbsp;The weather disruptions have long been a challenge in Test cricket, a format heavily dependent on natural light and dry conditions.&nbsp;&nbsp;For example, in several parts of India, daylight begins fading as early as 4 pm during certain months, often forcing matches to end 30 to 60 minutes before the scheduled close of play. This not only reduces the number of overs bowled but can also influence match outcomes and lower spectator interest.&nbsp;Also Read - <a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/ipl-2026-big-blow-for-lsg-as-star-batter-set-to-miss-pbks-clash-1779525664989">IPL 2026: Big blow for LSG as star batter set to miss PBKS clash</a>&nbsp;To address such issues, the pink-ball format was introduced for day-night Tests, enabling games to continue under floodlights in the same way as ODI and T20 matches played with the white ball.&nbsp;&nbsp;Initially promoted as a way to attract modern working audiences with more viewer-friendly timings, the popularity of day-night Tests has declined somewhat in recent years.&nbsp;Also Read -<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/ipl-2026-rajat-patidar-scripts-history-becomes-fastest-indian-to-achieve-this-milestone-1779520795921"> Rajat Patidar scripts history, becomes fastest Indian to achieve THIS milestone</a><h3>How the red ball differs from the pink ball</h3>The main difference between red and pink Test balls lies in how they are manufactured to suit different playing conditions, which affects their behavior on the pitch. Red balls are coated with wax, helping them generate conventional swing early in an innings and later developing roughness that assists reverse swing as the game progresses, however, they can become harder to see under floodlights.&nbsp;Pink balls, on the other hand, are specifically manufactured for day-night cricket and feature additional layers of pigment and lacquer to improve visibility under flood lights. The heavier lacquer coating and more prominent seam often cause the ball to swing and seam more sharply for extended periods, while also making it travel quicker off the pitch under lights.

The ICC is reportedly exploring a potential rule change that would allow a switch from the red ball to the pink ball during a Test match, a move that could significantly transform the future of Test cricket.

The International Cricket Council (ICC) is reportedly exploring a significant change to traditional Test cricket rules that could allow teams to switch from the red ball to the pink ball during weather-interrupted matches. The proposed move would make it possible for play to continue under floodlights, provided both sides agree to the change. As reported by Cricbuzz, the proposal was discussed during Thursday’s virtual meeting of the ICC Chief Executives Committee, attended by ICC Cricket Committee chairman Sourav Ganguly. Although the idea is still in the discussion phase, several practical aspects remain unresolved, particularly how and when the ball change would be implemented during an ongoing match. The weather disruptions have long been a challenge in Test cricket, a format heavily dependent on natural light and dry conditions. For example, in several parts of India, daylight begins fading as early as 4 pm during certain months, often forcing matches to end 30 to 60 minutes before the scheduled close of play. This not only reduces the number of overs bowled but can also influence match outcomes and lower spectator interest. Also Read - IPL 2026: Big blow for LSG as star batter set to miss PBKS clash To address such issues, the pink-ball format was introduced for day-night Tests, enabling games to continue under floodlights in the same way as ODI and T20 matches played with the white ball. Initially promoted as a way to attract modern working audiences with more viewer-friendly timings, the popularity of day-night Tests has declined somewhat in recent years. Also Read - Rajat Patidar scripts history, becomes fastest Indian to achieve THIS milestone How the red ball differs from the pink ball The main difference between red and pink Test balls lies in how they are manufactured to suit different playing conditions, which affects their behavior on the pitch. Red balls are coated with wax, helping them generate conventional swing early in an innings and later developing roughness that assists reverse swing as the game progresses, however, they can become harder to see under floodlights. Pink balls, on the other hand, are specifically manufactured for day-night cricket and feature additional layers of pigment and lacquer to improve visibility under flood lights. The heavier lacquer coating and more prominent seam often cause the ball to swing and seam more sharply for extended periods, while also making it travel quicker off the pitch under lights.

The ICC is reportedly exploring a potential rule change that would allow a switch from the red ball to the pink ball during a Test match, a move that could significantly transform the future of Test cricket.

ICC weighs major rule change on red to pink ball switch in Tests: Reports

Mumbai Indians will host Rajasthan Royals in match 69 of the Indian Premier League 2026 at the iconic Wankhede Stadium on Sunday (May 24). Rajasthan Royals have played 13 matches so far, winning seven and losing six and are currently fourth on the points table with 14 points. Mumbai Indians have also played 13 matches, winning four and losing nine and are placed ninth in the standings. Rajasthan will look to maintain their winning momentum, while Mumbai aim to bounce back with a victory. The match is crucial for RR as they need a convincing win to secure the fourth and final spot in the playoffs.&nbsp;Ahead of the clash, here’s everything you need to know, including live streaming details, head-to-head stats and other key information.&nbsp;<h2>What is the head-to-head record for the MI vs RR clash in IPL history</h2>Mumbai Indians and Rajasthan Royals have clashed 32 times in the Indian Premier League, with MI winning 16 matches and RR claiming victory in 15 encounters. One match ended without a result.&nbsp;Also Read - <a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/ipl-2026-rajat-patidar-scripts-history-becomes-fastest-indian-to-achieve-this-milestone-1779520795921">Rajat Patidar scripts history, becomes fastest Indian to achieve THIS milestone</a><h2>What is the venue for the MI vs RR IPL 2026 Match No.69?</h2>The Wankhede Stadium in Mumbai will be the venue for the MI vs RR IPL 2026 Match No.69.<h2>When will the MI vs RR IPL 2026 Match No.69?</h2>The MI vs RR IPL 2026 Match No.69 will start at 3:30 p.m. IST, with the toss taking place at 3:00 p.m. IST.&nbsp;Also Read - <a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/ipl-2026-virat-kohli-snubs-handshake-with-travis-head-moment-goes-viral-watch-1779519114549">IPL 2026: Kohli snubs handshake with Travis Head, moment goes viral - WATCH</a><h2>Which channel will broadcast the MI vs RR IPL 2026 Match No.69?</h2>The Star Sports Network will broadcast the MI vs RR IPL 2026 Match No.69 in India.<h2>Which platform will live-stream the MI vs RR IPL 2026 Match No.69?</h2>The Jio+Hotstar will live-stream the MI vs RR IPL 2026 Match No.69 in India.<h2>Squads</h2>Mumbai Indians: Hardik Pandya (c), Quinton de Kock (wk), Danish Malewar, Robin Minz (wk), Ryan Rickelton (wk), Sherfane Rutherford, Rohit Sharma, Suryakumar Yadav, Atharva Ankolekar, Raj Bawa, Corbin Bosch, Will Jacks, Mayank Rawat, Naman Dhir, Mitchell Santner, Shardul Thakur, Tilak Varma, Ashwani Kumar, Trent Boult, Jasprit Bumrah, Deepak Chahar, AM Ghazanfar, Mayank Markande, Mohammad Izhar and Raghu Sharma&nbsp;Rajasthan Royals: Shimron Hetmyer, Yashasvi Jaiswal, Dhruv Jurel, Lhuan-dre Pretorius, Riyan Parag (captain), Vaibhav Sooryavanshi, Donovan Ferreira, Ravindra Jadeja, Jofra Archer, Nandre Burger, Tushar Deshpande, Kwena Maphaka, Sandeep Sharma, Yudhvir Singh Charak, Ravi Bishnoi, Sushant Mishra, Ravi Singh, Aman Rao Perala, Adam Milne, Dasun Shanaka, Shubham Dubey, Vignesh Puthur, Kuldeep Sen and Brijesh Sharma

Ahead of the key IPL 2026 clash between Mumbai Indians and Rajasthan Royals, here’s everything you need to know, including live streaming, head-to-head stats and other important details.

Mumbai Indians will host Rajasthan Royals in match 69 of the Indian Premier League 2026 at the iconic Wankhede Stadium on Sunday (May 24). Rajasthan Royals have played 13 matches so far, winning seven and losing six and are currently fourth on the points table with 14 points. Mumbai Indians have also played 13 matches, winning four and losing nine and are placed ninth in the standings. Rajasthan will look to maintain their winning momentum, while Mumbai aim to bounce back with a victory. The match is crucial for RR as they need a convincing win to secure the fourth and final spot in the playoffs. Ahead of the clash, here’s everything you need to know, including live streaming details, head-to-head stats and other key information. What is the head-to-head record for the MI vs RR clash in IPL history Mumbai Indians and Rajasthan Royals have clashed 32 times in the Indian Premier League, with MI winning 16 matches and RR claiming victory in 15 encounters. One match ended without a result. Also Read - Rajat Patidar scripts history, becomes fastest Indian to achieve THIS milestone What is the venue for the MI vs RR IPL 2026 Match No.69? The Wankhede Stadium in Mumbai will be the venue for the MI vs RR IPL 2026 Match No.69. When will the MI vs RR IPL 2026 Match No.69? The MI vs RR IPL 2026 Match No.69 will start at 3:30 p.m. IST, with the toss taking place at 3:00 p.m. IST. Also Read - IPL 2026: Kohli snubs handshake with Travis Head, moment goes viral - WATCH Which channel will broadcast the MI vs RR IPL 2026 Match No.69? The Star Sports Network will broadcast the MI vs RR IPL 2026 Match No.69 in India. Which platform will live-stream the MI vs RR IPL 2026 Match No.69? The Jio+Hotstar will live-stream the MI vs RR IPL 2026 Match No.69 in India. Squads Mumbai Indians: Hardik Pandya (c), Quinton de Kock (wk), Danish Malewar, Robin Minz (wk), Ryan Rickelton (wk), Sherfane Rutherford, Rohit Sharma, Suryakumar Yadav, Atharva Ankolekar, Raj Bawa, Corbin Bosch, Will Jacks, Mayank Rawat, Naman Dhir, Mitchell Santner, Shardul Thakur, Tilak Varma, Ashwani Kumar, Trent Boult, Jasprit Bumrah, Deepak Chahar, AM Ghazanfar, Mayank Markande, Mohammad Izhar and Raghu Sharma Rajasthan Royals: Shimron Hetmyer, Yashasvi Jaiswal, Dhruv Jurel, Lhuan-dre Pretorius, Riyan Parag (captain), Vaibhav Sooryavanshi, Donovan Ferreira, Ravindra Jadeja, Jofra Archer, Nandre Burger, Tushar Deshpande, Kwena Maphaka, Sandeep Sharma, Yudhvir Singh Charak, Ravi Bishnoi, Sushant Mishra, Ravi Singh, Aman Rao Perala, Adam Milne, Dasun Shanaka, Shubham Dubey, Vignesh Puthur, Kuldeep Sen and Brijesh Sharma

Ahead of the key IPL 2026 clash between Mumbai Indians and Rajasthan Royals, here’s everything you need to know, including live streaming, head-to-head stats and other important details.

IPL 2026: Here's all you need to know about MI vs RR match no 69 timing, squad, H2H & more

Lucknow Super Giants have reportedly been dealt a major setback ahead of their IPL 2026 home clash against Punjab Kings, as star Australian batter Mitchell Marsh is set to miss the encounter. While the match is a dead rubber for LSG, who are already out of playoff contention, Punjab Kings must secure a victory to keep their qualification hopes alive.&nbsp;As per reports from ESPNcricinfo, Marsh will not be available for the fixture, although the exact reason for his absence has not been disclosed. The 34-year-old has been one of the few positives for LSG in an otherwise disappointing campaign, as the franchise has again failed to make it to the playoffs.&nbsp;Marsh has amassed 563 runs in 13 innings, including two hundreds and three fifties, making him LSG’s highest run-scorer this season. Captain Rishabh Pant is the franchise’s next-best batter with 286 runs from 12 innings, almost half of Marsh’s tally.&nbsp;Now, with Aiden Markram and Matthew Breetzke also unavailable, LSG are expected to reshuffle their opening combination against Punjab Kings. The likely candidates to replace Marsh at the top include skipper Rishabh Pant, Ayush Badoni and Nicholas Pooran.&nbsp;Also Read - <a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/ipl-2026-rajat-patidar-scripts-history-becomes-fastest-indian-to-achieve-this-milestone-1779520795921">IPL 2026: Rajat Patidar scripts history, becomes fastest Indian to achieve THIS milestone</a>&nbsp;Pant appears to be the leading option despite having opened in only six IPL innings, where he has scored 132 runs, including a highest score of 69. His most recent outing as an opener for LSG came against Delhi Capitals on 1 Apr, 2026, where he managed just seven runs. Prior to that, he scored 21 against Gujarat Titans in Lucknow during the 2025 season.&nbsp;Also Read - <a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/ipl-2026-virat-kohli-snubs-handshake-with-travis-head-moment-goes-viral-watch-1779519114549">IPL 2026: Kohli snubs handshake with Travis Head, moment goes viral - WATCH</a>&nbsp;Badoni is another alternative under consideration, although his record as an opener has been modest. In three innings at the top, he has scored only 39 runs and his last appearance in the role came against Rajasthan Royals, where he was dismissed for a duck, while he scored 35 against Punjab Kings on Apr 19.&nbsp;Nicholas Pooran, meanwhile, has never opened the batting in the IPL, making his promotion a potentially bold move if LSG choose to go in that direction.

Mitchell Marsh will be unavailable for the clash against PBKS, forcing LSG to look for a new opening partner for Josh Inglis in the upcoming IPL 2026 match.

Lucknow Super Giants have reportedly been dealt a major setback ahead of their IPL 2026 home clash against Punjab Kings, as star Australian batter Mitchell Marsh is set to miss the encounter. While the match is a dead rubber for LSG, who are already out of playoff contention, Punjab Kings must secure a victory to keep their qualification hopes alive. As per reports from ESPNcricinfo, Marsh will not be available for the fixture, although the exact reason for his absence has not been disclosed. The 34-year-old has been one of the few positives for LSG in an otherwise disappointing campaign, as the franchise has again failed to make it to the playoffs. Marsh has amassed 563 runs in 13 innings, including two hundreds and three fifties, making him LSG’s highest run-scorer this season. Captain Rishabh Pant is the franchise’s next-best batter with 286 runs from 12 innings, almost half of Marsh’s tally. Now, with Aiden Markram and Matthew Breetzke also unavailable, LSG are expected to reshuffle their opening combination against Punjab Kings. The likely candidates to replace Marsh at the top include skipper Rishabh Pant, Ayush Badoni and Nicholas Pooran. Also Read - IPL 2026: Rajat Patidar scripts history, becomes fastest Indian to achieve THIS milestone Pant appears to be the leading option despite having opened in only six IPL innings, where he has scored 132 runs, including a highest score of 69. His most recent outing as an opener for LSG came against Delhi Capitals on 1 Apr, 2026, where he managed just seven runs. Prior to that, he scored 21 against Gujarat Titans in Lucknow during the 2025 season. Also Read - IPL 2026: Kohli snubs handshake with Travis Head, moment goes viral - WATCH Badoni is another alternative under consideration, although his record as an opener has been modest. In three innings at the top, he has scored only 39 runs and his last appearance in the role came against Rajasthan Royals, where he was dismissed for a duck, while he scored 35 against Punjab Kings on Apr 19. Nicholas Pooran, meanwhile, has never opened the batting in the IPL, making his promotion a potentially bold move if LSG choose to go in that direction.

Mitchell Marsh will be unavailable for the clash against PBKS, forcing LSG to look for a new opening partner for Josh Inglis in the upcoming IPL 2026 match.

IPL 2026: Big blow for LSG as star batter set to miss PBKS clash

From Chris Gayle to Vaibhav Sooryavanshi, here's a look at the top five batters with most sixes in an IPL season. This list also includes Andre Russell and Jos Buttler.

From Chris Gayle to Vaibhav Sooryavanshi, here's a look at the top five batters with most sixes in an IPL season. This list also includes Andre Russell and Jos Buttler.

Meet top 5 batters with most sixes in an IPL season ft. Vaibhav Sooryavanshi

Rajat Patidar delivered a fighting knock of 56 off 39 balls for Royal Challengers Bengaluru against Sunrisers Hyderabad on Friday (May 22), striking six boundaries and one maximum despite RCB’s 55-run defeat. The lone six during his innings proved to be a milestone moment, as Patidar completed 100 sixes in the IPL. In doing so, he became the fastest Indian batter to reach the landmark in terms of balls faced.&nbsp;As per Cricbuzz, Patidar needed only 933 deliveries to bring up his 100th IPL six. The earlier Indian record belonged to Shivam Dube, who achieved the feat in 992 balls.&nbsp;The overall IPL record, however, remains with Andre Russell, representing both Delhi Capitals and Kolkata Knight Riders, the explosive all-rounder raced to 100 sixes in just 657 deliveries.<h3>Fewest balls taken to reach 100 IPL sixes</h3><ul><li>Andre Russell (Delhi Capitals, Kolkata Knight Riders) - 657 balls</li><li>Nicholas Pooran (Punjab Kings, Sunrisers Hyderabad, LSG) - 884 balls</li><li>Rajat Patidar (Royal Challengers Bengaluru) - 933 balls</li><li>Chris Gayle (KKR, Royal Challengers Bengaluru, Punjab Kings) - 943 balls</li></ul>Also Read - <a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/ipl-2026-kkr-suffer-major-blow-as-angkrish-raghuvanshi-is-ruled-out-ahead-of-crucial-dc-clash-1779461013451">KKR suffer major blow as Angkrish Raghuvanshi is ruled out of IPL 2026</a>&nbsp;In IPL 2026, Patidar has been among RCB’s standout performers, accumulating 393 runs so far and emerging as the franchise’s third-leading run-scorer this season. He is now only the second Indian batter and the fourth overall to smash 100 or more IPL sixes for the Bengaluru franchise.&nbsp;Also Read - <a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/ipl-2026-virat-kohli-snubs-handshake-with-travis-head-moment-goes-viral-watch-1779519114549">IPL 2026: Virat Kohli snubs handshake with Travis Head, moment goes viral - WATCH</a>&nbsp;Since debuting in the IPL in 2021, Patidar has featured in 55 matches for RCB and has already reached the century mark in sixes.&nbsp;The franchise record for most IPL sixes still belongs to Virat Kohli, who has cleared the ropes 312 times in 281 matches across 19 seasons for RCB. Kohli is also the first cricketer in T20 history to register 300 sixes for a single team.&nbsp;Behind Kohli on RCB’s all-time six-hitters list are Chris Gayle and AB de Villiers, Gayle smashed 239 sixes in 85 IPL appearances for the franchise between 2011 and 2017, while De Villiers struck 238 maximums in 156 matches from 2011 to 2021.

Rajat Patidar made history on Friday (May 22) by becoming the fastest Indian batter to reach 100 sixes in IPL history.

Rajat Patidar delivered a fighting knock of 56 off 39 balls for Royal Challengers Bengaluru against Sunrisers Hyderabad on Friday (May 22), striking six boundaries and one maximum despite RCB’s 55-run defeat. The lone six during his innings proved to be a milestone moment, as Patidar completed 100 sixes in the IPL. In doing so, he became the fastest Indian batter to reach the landmark in terms of balls faced. As per Cricbuzz, Patidar needed only 933 deliveries to bring up his 100th IPL six. The earlier Indian record belonged to Shivam Dube, who achieved the feat in 992 balls. The overall IPL record, however, remains with Andre Russell, representing both Delhi Capitals and Kolkata Knight Riders, the explosive all-rounder raced to 100 sixes in just 657 deliveries. Fewest balls taken to reach 100 IPL sixes Andre Russell (Delhi Capitals, Kolkata Knight Riders) - 657 balls Nicholas Pooran (Punjab Kings, Sunrisers Hyderabad, LSG) - 884 balls Rajat Patidar (Royal Challengers Bengaluru) - 933 balls Chris Gayle (KKR, Royal Challengers Bengaluru, Punjab Kings) - 943 balls Also Read - KKR suffer major blow as Angkrish Raghuvanshi is ruled out of IPL 2026 In IPL 2026, Patidar has been among RCB’s standout performers, accumulating 393 runs so far and emerging as the franchise’s third-leading run-scorer this season. He is now only the second Indian batter and the fourth overall to smash 100 or more IPL sixes for the Bengaluru franchise. Also Read - IPL 2026: Virat Kohli snubs handshake with Travis Head, moment goes viral - WATCH Since debuting in the IPL in 2021, Patidar has featured in 55 matches for RCB and has already reached the century mark in sixes. The franchise record for most IPL sixes still belongs to Virat Kohli, who has cleared the ropes 312 times in 281 matches across 19 seasons for RCB. Kohli is also the first cricketer in T20 history to register 300 sixes for a single team. Behind Kohli on RCB’s all-time six-hitters list are Chris Gayle and AB de Villiers, Gayle smashed 239 sixes in 85 IPL appearances for the franchise between 2011 and 2017, while De Villiers struck 238 maximums in 156 matches from 2011 to 2021.

Rajat Patidar made history on Friday (May 22) by becoming the fastest Indian batter to reach 100 sixes in IPL history.

IPL 2026: Rajat Patidar scripts history, becomes fastest Indian to achieve THIS milestone

Virat Kohli and Travis Head were seen involved in a brief verbal exchange during IPL 2026 clash between Sunrisers Hyderabad and Royal Challengers Bengaluru on Friday (May 22), where SRH secured a commanding 55-run victory. Kohli endured a disappointing outing with the bat, scoring just 15 runs from 11 deliveries, including two boundaries, before falling to Saik Hussain on the second-last ball of the sixth over.&nbsp;&nbsp;The incident unfolded during RCB’s chase of 256 at Rajiv Gandhi International Stadium, while Venkatesh Iyer was attacking the SRH bowling attack, television cameras captured Kohli and Head exchanging a few words on the field.&nbsp;A charged-up Kohli appeared to gesture toward Head to take up bowling duties, while also mimicking the “Impact Sub” signal, seemingly referencing SRH’s strategy of deploying the Australian primarily as a batter before replacing him with a specialist bowler during the fielding innings.&nbsp;Also Read - <a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/-made-a-big-difference-in-my-growth-devdutt-padikkal-on-batting-with-virat-kohli-1779454602452">'Made a big difference in my growth': Devdutt Padikkal on batting with Kohli</a>

<blockquote class="twitter-tweet" data-media-max-width="560"><a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/ViratKohli?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#ViratKohli</a> 🆚 <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/TravisHead?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#TravisHead</a> 🥵🤯 Tensions rise in high voltage clash🔥<a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/TATAIPL?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#TATAIPL</a> Race to Playoffs 2026 👉 <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/SRHvRCB?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#SRHvRCB</a> | LIVE NOW ➡️<a href="https://t.co/52qPTW2gSO">https://t.co/52qPTW2gSO</a> <a href="https://t.co/JOiWaxNW6T">pic.twitter.com/JOiWaxNW6T</a>&mdash; Star Sports (@StarSportsIndia) <a href="https://twitter.com/StarSportsIndia/status/2057868461070819593?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">May 22, 2026</a></blockquote> <script async src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script>

The interaction appeared to carry over after the game, as during the customary post-match greetings, Kohli was seen walking past Head without shaking hands, despite interacting with several other SRH players, leaving the opener waiting for a handshake.&nbsp;Watch the video below

<blockquote class="twitter-tweet" data-media-max-width="560">Uncomfortable to watch extreme bad behavior by a man of such stature didn’t expect this from Virat Kohli <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/SRHvsRCB?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#SRHvsRCB</a> <a href="https://t.co/cTfMV9RuDD">pic.twitter.com/cTfMV9RuDD</a>&mdash; AVNISH 🇮🇳 (@avnishh26) <a href="https://twitter.com/avnishh26/status/2057895119467245903?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">May 22, 2026</a></blockquote> <script async src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script>

However, the evening belonged to SRH, whose explosive batting display laid the foundation for a huge total before their bowlers comfortably defended it.&nbsp;Despite the loss, RCB achieved a crucial objective by retaining the top spot in the league table. Finishing first guarantees them a place in Qualifier 1, giving them two opportunities to reach the IPL 2026 Final.&nbsp;Also Read - <a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/ipl-2026-kkr-suffer-major-blow-as-angkrish-raghuvanshi-is-ruled-out-ahead-of-crucial-dc-clash-1779461013451">KKR suffer major blow as Angkrish Raghuvanshi is ruled out of IPL 2026</a>&nbsp;RCB also managed the impact on their net run rate by ending their chase at 200/4, which kept them ahead of second-placed Gujarat Titans and third-placed SRH, with all three sides level on points.&nbsp;Meanwhile, the battle for the final playoff berth remains intense, as Punjab Kings, Kolkata Knight Riders and Delhi Capitals are still competing for the fourth and final playoff spot.

The SRH vs RCB clash in IPL 2026 ended on a controversial note as Virat Kohli appeared to avoid a customary handshake with Travis Head in Hyderabad.

Virat Kohli and Travis Head were seen involved in a brief verbal exchange during IPL 2026 clash between Sunrisers Hyderabad and Royal Challengers Bengaluru on Friday (May 22), where SRH secured a commanding 55-run victory. Kohli endured a disappointing outing with the bat, scoring just 15 runs from 11 deliveries, including two boundaries, before falling to Saik Hussain on the second-last ball of the sixth over. The incident unfolded during RCB’s chase of 256 at Rajiv Gandhi International Stadium, while Venkatesh Iyer was attacking the SRH bowling attack, television cameras captured Kohli and Head exchanging a few words on the field. A charged-up Kohli appeared to gesture toward Head to take up bowling duties, while also mimicking the “Impact Sub” signal, seemingly referencing SRH’s strategy of deploying the Australian primarily as a batter before replacing him with a specialist bowler during the fielding innings. Also Read - 'Made a big difference in my growth': Devdutt Padikkal on batting with Kohli

The SRH vs RCB clash in IPL 2026 ended on a controversial note as Virat Kohli appeared to avoid a customary handshake with Travis Head in Hyderabad.

IPL 2026: Virat Kohli snubs handshake with Travis Head, moment goes viral - WATCH

Sunrisers Hyderabad ended their IPL 2026 league stage with a dominant 55-run win over defending champions Royal Challengers Bengaluru on Friday (May 22), but still fell short of a top-two finish due to inferior net run rate. Batting first at the Rajiv Gandhi International Stadium in Hyderabad, SRH posted a massive 255/4 in 20 overs after skipper Pat Cummins opted to set a target. However, they needed a win by around 90 runs to overtake RCB on net run rate, a target they ultimately fell short of.&nbsp;Earlier, SRH innings got off to a trademark explosive start as Abhishek Sharma and Travis Head raced to 45 runs inside four overs. Head struck 26 off 16 balls before being dismissed by Rasikh Salam.&nbsp;Ishan Kishan then joined Abhishek at the crease and the pair stitched together a brisk 52-run stand for the second wicket. Abhishek continued his aggressive approach to bring up a rapid half-century before falling to Suyash Sharma for a brilliant 56 off just 22 deliveries.&nbsp;Kishan carried the momentum forward alongside Heinrich Klaasen, with the duo adding a destructive 113-run partnership. Both batters crossed the fifty-run mark during the stand before Klaasen was eventually dismissed by Krunal Pandya after hammering 51 from 24 balls.&nbsp;Also Read - <a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/ipl-2026-kkr-suffer-major-blow-as-angkrish-raghuvanshi-is-ruled-out-ahead-of-crucial-dc-clash-1779461013451">KKR suffer major blow as Angkrish Raghuvanshi is ruled out of IPL 2026</a>&nbsp;Kishan remained unbeaten on 79 off 46 deliveries, while Nitish Kumar Reddy provided a late quick contribution with 29 from just 12 balls, guiding SRH to their imposing total.&nbsp;In chasing, RCB’s opening pair of Virat Kohli and Venkatesh Iyer started the chase aggressively, putting together a 60-run opening stand. Iyer played the attacking role with a quick 44 before Eshan Malinga struck to break the partnership.&nbsp;Kohli departed soon after for 15 off 11 balls, dismissed by Shakib Hussain, while Devdutt Padikkal contributed 21 off 14 deliveries before Malinga claimed another wicket.&nbsp;RCB captain Rajat Patidar and Krunal Pandya attempted to revive the chase with a solid partnership. Patidar brought up a fighting half-century, scoring 56 off 39 balls, while Krunal chipped in with 41.&nbsp;&nbsp;Also Read - <a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/-made-a-big-difference-in-my-growth-devdutt-padikkal-on-batting-with-virat-kohli-1779454602452">'Made a big difference in my growth': Devdutt Padikkal on batting with Kohli</a>&nbsp;Patidar’s dismissal at the hands of Travis Head effectively ended RCB’s hopes and despite an unbeaten 15 from Tim David, Bengaluru finished on 200, falling 55 runs short. &nbsp;Although SRH concluded the league phase level on 18 points with both RCB and Gujarat Titans, their lower net run rate meant they finished third in the standings. As a result, Cummins and his side will now play the Eliminator on Wednesday (May 27) in New Chandigarh, while Qualifier 1 between RCB and Gujarat Titans is scheduled for Tuesday (May 26) at the Himachal Pradesh Cricket Association Stadium.

Despite defeating Royal Challengers Bengaluru in their final league match of IPL 2026 on Friday (May 22), Sunrisers Hyderabad missed out on a top-two finish and will now feature in the Eliminator.

Sunrisers Hyderabad ended their IPL 2026 league stage with a dominant 55-run win over defending champions Royal Challengers Bengaluru on Friday (May 22), but still fell short of a top-two finish due to inferior net run rate. Batting first at the Rajiv Gandhi International Stadium in Hyderabad, SRH posted a massive 255/4 in 20 overs after skipper Pat Cummins opted to set a target. However, they needed a win by around 90 runs to overtake RCB on net run rate, a target they ultimately fell short of. Earlier, SRH innings got off to a trademark explosive start as Abhishek Sharma and Travis Head raced to 45 runs inside four overs. Head struck 26 off 16 balls before being dismissed by Rasikh Salam. Ishan Kishan then joined Abhishek at the crease and the pair stitched together a brisk 52-run stand for the second wicket. Abhishek continued his aggressive approach to bring up a rapid half-century before falling to Suyash Sharma for a brilliant 56 off just 22 deliveries. Kishan carried the momentum forward alongside Heinrich Klaasen, with the duo adding a destructive 113-run partnership. Both batters crossed the fifty-run mark during the stand before Klaasen was eventually dismissed by Krunal Pandya after hammering 51 from 24 balls. Also Read - KKR suffer major blow as Angkrish Raghuvanshi is ruled out of IPL 2026 Kishan remained unbeaten on 79 off 46 deliveries, while Nitish Kumar Reddy provided a late quick contribution with 29 from just 12 balls, guiding SRH to their imposing total. In chasing, RCB’s opening pair of Virat Kohli and Venkatesh Iyer started the chase aggressively, putting together a 60-run opening stand. Iyer played the attacking role with a quick 44 before Eshan Malinga struck to break the partnership. Kohli departed soon after for 15 off 11 balls, dismissed by Shakib Hussain, while Devdutt Padikkal contributed 21 off 14 deliveries before Malinga claimed another wicket. RCB captain Rajat Patidar and Krunal Pandya attempted to revive the chase with a solid partnership. Patidar brought up a fighting half-century, scoring 56 off 39 balls, while Krunal chipped in with 41. Also Read - 'Made a big difference in my growth': Devdutt Padikkal on batting with Kohli Patidar’s dismissal at the hands of Travis Head effectively ended RCB’s hopes and despite an unbeaten 15 from Tim David, Bengaluru finished on 200, falling 55 runs short. Although SRH concluded the league phase level on 18 points with both RCB and Gujarat Titans, their lower net run rate meant they finished third in the standings. As a result, Cummins and his side will now play the Eliminator on Wednesday (May 27) in New Chandigarh, while Qualifier 1 between RCB and Gujarat Titans is scheduled for Tuesday (May 26) at the Himachal Pradesh Cricket Association Stadium.

Despite defeating Royal Challengers Bengaluru in their final league match of IPL 2026 on Friday (May 22), Sunrisers Hyderabad missed out on a top-two finish and will now feature in the Eliminator.

IPL 2026 | Sunrisers Hyderabad secure 55-run win over RCB, set for Eliminator clash on May 27

Kolkata Knight Riders batter Angkrish Raghuvanshi has been ruled out for the rest of the IPL 2026 season after suffering a fracture in a finger on his left hand. The franchise confirmed that the injury occurred during Wednesday’s clash against the Mumbai Indians.The 21-year-old, who was behind the stumps during the game, was injured while attempting a catch off Varun Chakaravarthy’s bowling.&nbsp;&nbsp;A mix-up between the two players led to a collision as both went for the same chance, although Chakaravarthy initially got his hands to the ball, late contact from Raghuvanshi caused the catch to go down.&nbsp;Raghuvanshi walked off the field shortly after the incident and was later spotted wearing a hand brace. KKR also revealed that he had suffered a concussion, prompting the team to bring in Tejasvi Dahiya as a substitute, handing him both his wicketkeeping and batting debut for the side.&nbsp;Also Read - <a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/-made-a-big-difference-in-my-growth-devdutt-padikkal-on-batting-with-virat-kohli-1779454602452">'Made a big difference in my growth': Devdutt Padikkal on batting with Virat Kohli</a>&nbsp;Speaking after the match, KKR assistant coach Shane Watson said the youngster experienced neck pain, dizziness and headaches following the heavy collision.&nbsp;“Ankrish, unfortunately, ran a long way to be able to try and get that catch. And unfortunately, the collision that he had with Varun Chakravarthy meant that he ended up having some neck pain, a bit of dizziness and a bit of a headache within a couple of overs of that as well," KKR assistant coach Shane Watson said after the match.&nbsp;“So, unfortunately, he wasn’t able to finish off the game. And I know how desperate he was as well. He’s someone who is as tough a competitor as I’ve ever met. So we certainly missed him from a batting perspective," he added.&nbsp;Also Read - <a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/pep-guardiola-to-step-down-as-manager-at-end-of-the-season-confirms-manchester-city-1779455266890">Guardiola to step down as manager at end of the season, confirms Manchester City</a>&nbsp;Meanwhile, KKR have just one league-stage fixture remaining, Sunday’s encounter against the Delhi Capitals. Their playoff hopes are still uncertain and could depend on the outcome of the match between the Rajasthan Royals and Mumbai Indians earlier that day.&nbsp;Raghuvanshi’s absence could prove significant if KKR manage to qualify for the next stage. The right-hander has been one of the side’s most reliable performers this season, scoring 422 runs in 12 innings at an average of 42.20 and an impressive strike rate of 146.52.

KKR batter Angkrish Raghuvanshi has been ruled out of the remainder of IPL 2026 after suffering a fracture to a finger on his left hand during the previous match against Mumbai Indians.

Kolkata Knight Riders batter Angkrish Raghuvanshi has been ruled out for the rest of the IPL 2026 season after suffering a fracture in a finger on his left hand. The franchise confirmed that the injury occurred during Wednesday’s clash against the Mumbai Indians. The 21-year-old, who was behind the stumps during the game, was injured while attempting a catch off Varun Chakaravarthy’s bowling. A mix-up between the two players led to a collision as both went for the same chance, although Chakaravarthy initially got his hands to the ball, late contact from Raghuvanshi caused the catch to go down. Raghuvanshi walked off the field shortly after the incident and was later spotted wearing a hand brace. KKR also revealed that he had suffered a concussion, prompting the team to bring in Tejasvi Dahiya as a substitute, handing him both his wicketkeeping and batting debut for the side. Also Read - 'Made a big difference in my growth': Devdutt Padikkal on batting with Virat Kohli Speaking after the match, KKR assistant coach Shane Watson said the youngster experienced neck pain, dizziness and headaches following the heavy collision. “Ankrish, unfortunately, ran a long way to be able to try and get that catch. And unfortunately, the collision that he had with Varun Chakravarthy meant that he ended up having some neck pain, a bit of dizziness and a bit of a headache within a couple of overs of that as well," KKR assistant coach Shane Watson said after the match. “So, unfortunately, he wasn’t able to finish off the game. And I know how desperate he was as well. He’s someone who is as tough a competitor as I’ve ever met. So we certainly missed him from a batting perspective," he added. Also Read - Guardiola to step down as manager at end of the season, confirms Manchester City Meanwhile, KKR have just one league-stage fixture remaining, Sunday’s encounter against the Delhi Capitals. Their playoff hopes are still uncertain and could depend on the outcome of the match between the Rajasthan Royals and Mumbai Indians earlier that day. Raghuvanshi’s absence could prove significant if KKR manage to qualify for the next stage. The right-hander has been one of the side’s most reliable performers this season, scoring 422 runs in 12 innings at an average of 42.20 and an impressive strike rate of 146.52.

KKR batter Angkrish Raghuvanshi has been ruled out of the remainder of IPL 2026 after suffering a fracture to a finger on his left hand during the previous match against Mumbai Indians.

IPL 2026 | KKR suffer major blow as Angkrish Raghuvanshi is ruled out ahead of crucial DC clash

Defending champions Royal Challengers Bengaluru have enjoyed an outstanding run in the current edition of the Indian Premier League. Heading into the final phase of the league stage, RCB sit comfortably at the top of the points table and have already secured a place in the knockouts. Ahead of the team’s last group-stage fixture, star batter Devdutt Padikkal reflected on his early days with the franchise and the valuable lessons he learned from batting alongside veteran Indian batter Virat Kohli.&nbsp;Speaking on JioHotstar, Padikkal said that he felt fully prepared when he made his IPL debut for RCB in 2020, thanks to consistent performances in domestic cricket. He added that sharing the crease with Kohli played a major role in his development, as observing one of the game’s finest players helped him better understand how to pace and build an innings.&nbsp;&nbsp;According to Padikkal, those experiences significantly contributed to his growth as a batter.&nbsp;&nbsp;"When I made my IPL debut with RCB in the 2020 season, I felt ready. I had a solid run of scores in domestic cricket behind me. So, I knew that when my chance came, I would be fully switched on and give 100 per cent. And batting with Virat Kohli, one of the greatest in the game, was a huge help. At that age, watching him build an innings gave me so much clarity and understanding of how to construct a knock. That made a big difference in my growth,” said Padikkal.&nbsp;Also Read - <a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/pep-guardiola-to-step-down-as-manager-at-end-of-the-season-confirms-manchester-city-1779455266890">Pep Guardiola to step down as manager at end of the season, confirms Manchester City</a>&nbsp;Meanwhile, Royal Challengers Bengaluru are set to face Sunrisers Hyderabad in their final league-stage match at the Rajiv Gandhi International Stadium on May 22 in the 67th match of the season.&nbsp;&nbsp;Although both teams have already booked their spots in the playoffs, Hyderabad still have an chance of finishing at the top of the standings, which would require a dominant victory over the defending champions.

Royal Challengers Bengaluru star batter Devdutt Padikkal highlighted his experience of batting alongside veteran Virat Kohli, saying it has played a key role in his growth and success in his career.

Defending champions Royal Challengers Bengaluru have enjoyed an outstanding run in the current edition of the Indian Premier League. Heading into the final phase of the league stage, RCB sit comfortably at the top of the points table and have already secured a place in the knockouts. Ahead of the team’s last group-stage fixture, star batter Devdutt Padikkal reflected on his early days with the franchise and the valuable lessons he learned from batting alongside veteran Indian batter Virat Kohli. Speaking on JioHotstar, Padikkal said that he felt fully prepared when he made his IPL debut for RCB in 2020, thanks to consistent performances in domestic cricket. He added that sharing the crease with Kohli played a major role in his development, as observing one of the game’s finest players helped him better understand how to pace and build an innings. According to Padikkal, those experiences significantly contributed to his growth as a batter. "When I made my IPL debut with RCB in the 2020 season, I felt ready. I had a solid run of scores in domestic cricket behind me. So, I knew that when my chance came, I would be fully switched on and give 100 per cent. And batting with Virat Kohli, one of the greatest in the game, was a huge help. At that age, watching him build an innings gave me so much clarity and understanding of how to construct a knock. That made a big difference in my growth,” said Padikkal. Also Read - Pep Guardiola to step down as manager at end of the season, confirms Manchester City Meanwhile, Royal Challengers Bengaluru are set to face Sunrisers Hyderabad in their final league-stage match at the Rajiv Gandhi International Stadium on May 22 in the 67th match of the season. Although both teams have already booked their spots in the playoffs, Hyderabad still have an chance of finishing at the top of the standings, which would require a dominant victory over the defending champions.

Royal Challengers Bengaluru star batter Devdutt Padikkal highlighted his experience of batting alongside veteran Virat Kohli, saying it has played a key role in his growth and success in his career.

'Made a big difference in my growth': Devdutt Padikkal on batting with Virat Kohli

From Chris Gayle to Babar Azam, here's a look at the top five batters fastest to 6,000 runs in T20s. This list also includes KL Rahul, Devon Conway and Shaun Marsh.

From Chris Gayle to Babar Azam, here's a look at the top five batters fastest to 6,000 runs in T20s. This list also includes KL Rahul, Devon Conway and Shaun Marsh.

Meet top 5 batters fastest to 6,000 T20 Runs

For the first time in the history of the Indian Premier League, spanning 19 editions, MS Dhoni did not feature in a single match throughout the season. His absence proved costly for Chennai Super Kings, who were eliminated from the IPL 2026 playoff race on Thursday (May 21) after a crushing 89-run defeat to Gujarat Titans. Following the end of CSK’s campaign, captain Ruturaj Gaikwad addressed speculation surrounding Dhoni’s future with the team. Speaking after the match, Gaikwad said there is still no clarity on whether Dhoni will return for the 2027 season and added that everyone, including himself, would only learn about Dhoni’s decision next year.&nbsp;“Will we see MS Dhoni next season? Obviously you will get to know it next year (2027) itself. Even I’ll get to know it next year itself," Gaikwad said.&nbsp;Gaikwad also admitted that CSK felt the absence of the veteran wicketkeeper-batter throughout the season and explained that Dhoni’s presence alone creates pressure on opponents, particularly during the closing overs, where he has the ability to shift momentum and change the outcome of matches.&nbsp;&nbsp;“Obviously, it’s a hard, hard miss for us definitely. He’s someone who can, have a fear in the opposition, especially coming in those late overs. Can really change the game, can really change the momentum just by staying at the crease. So, he’s someone, definitely we missed a lot this season. But, I mean, we never know about next season, but obviously really happy with the guys we had and, really happy with the experience they got this year," he added.&nbsp;In the 2026 edition of the Indian Premier League, CSK finished their campaign with six wins and eight losses.&nbsp;&nbsp;Reflecting on the team’s overall performance, Gaikwad pointed to injuries suffered by key all-rounders Jamie Overton and Ramakrishna Ghosh as major setbacks that disrupted the balance of the playing XI.&nbsp;&nbsp;Also Read - <a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/ipl-2026-bcci-penalises-ruturaj-gaikwad-after-chennai-super-kings-elimination-here-s-why-1779442411344">IPL 2026 | BCCI penalises Ruturaj Gaikwad after CSK's elimination - Here’s why</a>&nbsp;According to him, the team struggled to maintain the right combination in the final few games, often entering matches either short on batting depth or bowling options.&nbsp;&nbsp;“Well, tough season to start, especially the hat-trick of losses. And then after that, once we found that momentum, obviously we found guys playing at the right spot, the right combination, everything started working. And then obviously, a couple of injuries again and again. Didn’t really help much, especially missing out Jamie (Overton) and another all-rounder in Ramakrishna Ghosh, kind of unsettled our playing 12. We were always playing a batter short or, playing a bowler short in whatever last three games we played."&nbsp;Also Check - <a href="https://www.wionews.com/photos/sai-sudharsan-shubman-gill-enter-most-100-run-partnership-in-ipl-list-dominated-by-virat-kohli-1779439028119">Sai Sudharsan-Shubman Gill enter most 100-run partnership in IPL list dominated by Virat Kohli</a>&nbsp;Gaikwad further highlighted that CSK are currently undergoing a transition phase with a relatively inexperienced squad. He noted that several players in the team had played fewer than 20 IPL matches, making this season an important learning experience.&nbsp;&nbsp;Despite the challenges, he expressed pride in the group for securing six victories, including a few memorable wins away from home, while also identifying areas the franchise must improve moving forward.&nbsp;

MS Dhoni, who is the most-capped player and highest run-scorer for Chennai Super Kings in IPL history, did not play any matches for the franchise in the 2026 edition.

For the first time in the history of the Indian Premier League, spanning 19 editions, MS Dhoni did not feature in a single match throughout the season. His absence proved costly for Chennai Super Kings, who were eliminated from the IPL 2026 playoff race on Thursday (May 21) after a crushing 89-run defeat to Gujarat Titans. Following the end of CSK’s campaign, captain Ruturaj Gaikwad addressed speculation surrounding Dhoni’s future with the team. Speaking after the match, Gaikwad said there is still no clarity on whether Dhoni will return for the 2027 season and added that everyone, including himself, would only learn about Dhoni’s decision next year. “Will we see MS Dhoni next season? Obviously you will get to know it next year (2027) itself. Even I’ll get to know it next year itself," Gaikwad said. Gaikwad also admitted that CSK felt the absence of the veteran wicketkeeper-batter throughout the season and explained that Dhoni’s presence alone creates pressure on opponents, particularly during the closing overs, where he has the ability to shift momentum and change the outcome of matches. “Obviously, it’s a hard, hard miss for us definitely. He’s someone who can, have a fear in the opposition, especially coming in those late overs. Can really change the game, can really change the momentum just by staying at the crease. So, he’s someone, definitely we missed a lot this season. But, I mean, we never know about next season, but obviously really happy with the guys we had and, really happy with the experience they got this year," he added. In the 2026 edition of the Indian Premier League, CSK finished their campaign with six wins and eight losses. Reflecting on the team’s overall performance, Gaikwad pointed to injuries suffered by key all-rounders Jamie Overton and Ramakrishna Ghosh as major setbacks that disrupted the balance of the playing XI. Also Read - IPL 2026 | BCCI penalises Ruturaj Gaikwad after CSK's elimination - Here’s why According to him, the team struggled to maintain the right combination in the final few games, often entering matches either short on batting depth or bowling options. “Well, tough season to start, especially the hat-trick of losses. And then after that, once we found that momentum, obviously we found guys playing at the right spot, the right combination, everything started working. And then obviously, a couple of injuries again and again. Didn’t really help much, especially missing out Jamie (Overton) and another all-rounder in Ramakrishna Ghosh, kind of unsettled our playing 12. We were always playing a batter short or, playing a bowler short in whatever last three games we played." Also Check - Sai Sudharsan-Shubman Gill enter most 100-run partnership in IPL list dominated by Virat Kohli Gaikwad further highlighted that CSK are currently undergoing a transition phase with a relatively inexperienced squad. He noted that several players in the team had played fewer than 20 IPL matches, making this season an important learning experience. Despite the challenges, he expressed pride in the group for securing six victories, including a few memorable wins away from home, while also identifying areas the franchise must improve moving forward.

MS Dhoni, who is the most-capped player and highest run-scorer for Chennai Super Kings in IPL history, did not play any matches for the franchise in the 2026 edition.

'You will get to know it next year itself': Ruturaj Gaikwad on MS Dhoni’s IPL future

Sai Sudharsan and Shubman Gill now have 10 100-run partnerships in IPL, the joint most. Virat Kohli, meanwhile, features three times in the list of top 6 pairs with most 100-run partnership in IPL.

Sai Sudharsan and Shubman Gill now have 10 100-run partnerships in IPL, the joint most. Virat Kohli, meanwhile, features three times in the list of top 6 pairs with most 100-run partnership in IPL.

Sai Sudharsan-Shubman Gill enter most 100-run partnership in IPL list dominated by Virat Kohli

Chennai Super Kings suffered the biggest defeat in their IPL history after being thrashed by Gujarat Titans by 89 runs in Ahmedabad on Thursday (May 21). The victory marked GT’s ninth win of the season and sealed their place in the top two of the IPL standings.To make matters worse for CSK, captain Ruturaj Gaikwad was penalised by the Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI) after the side was found guilty of maintaining a slow over-rate at the Narendra Modi Stadium.&nbsp;It was CSK’s second over-rate offence this season, resulting in a INR 24 lakh fine for Gaikwad. The remaining members of the playing XI, including Impact Player Kartik Sharma, were fined either INR 6 lakh or 25 per cent of their match fees, whichever amount was lower.&nbsp;In the crucial fixture, CSK elected to field first but struggled to restrict GT’s batting lineup, eventually conceding 229/4. Openers Sai Sudharsan and Shubman Gill dominated with scores of 84 and 64 respectively, combining for a commanding 125-run partnership at the top.&nbsp;Also Read - <a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/from-body-shaming-to-breaking-records-inside-krishna-jayasankar-menon-s-redemption-year-and-asian-games-dream-1779418022239">From body shaming to breaking records: Krishna Jayasankar eyes Asian Games glory</a>&nbsp;Batting at No. 3, Jos Buttler accelerated the innings further with a fiery unbeaten 57 from just 27 deliveries, helping GT post an imposing total. CSK rotated six bowlers during the innings, but only Gurjapneet Singh managed to keep his economy rate below eight.&nbsp;Also Read - <a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/french-open-2026-draw-djokovic-looking-for-25th-grand-slam-avoids-sinner-before-final-1779429334273">French Open 2026: Djokovic, looking for 25th title, avoids Sinner before final</a>&nbsp;CSK’s chase got off to a poor start as the in-form Sanju Samson fell for a golden duck, caught behind off the opening ball bowled by Mohammed Siraj. From there, the innings never gained momentum, although Shivam Dube provided brief resistance with a rapid 47 off 17 balls before GT sealed a dominant win.&nbsp;For Gujarat Titans, Mohammed Siraj, Kagiso Rabada and Rashid Khan claimed three wickets each as CSK were bowled out for 140 in just 13.4 overs. The defeat also marked the third consecutive season in which CSK failed to secure a playoff berth.

Chennai Super Kings’ playoff hopes in IPL 2026 came to an end following a record defeat to Gujarat Titans, while captain Ruturaj Gaikwad was also handed a hefty fine.

Chennai Super Kings suffered the biggest defeat in their IPL history after being thrashed by Gujarat Titans by 89 runs in Ahmedabad on Thursday (May 21). The victory marked GT’s ninth win of the season and sealed their place in the top two of the IPL standings. To make matters worse for CSK, captain Ruturaj Gaikwad was penalised by the Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI) after the side was found guilty of maintaining a slow over-rate at the Narendra Modi Stadium. It was CSK’s second over-rate offence this season, resulting in a INR 24 lakh fine for Gaikwad. The remaining members of the playing XI, including Impact Player Kartik Sharma, were fined either INR 6 lakh or 25 per cent of their match fees, whichever amount was lower. In the crucial fixture, CSK elected to field first but struggled to restrict GT’s batting lineup, eventually conceding 229/4. Openers Sai Sudharsan and Shubman Gill dominated with scores of 84 and 64 respectively, combining for a commanding 125-run partnership at the top. Also Read - From body shaming to breaking records: Krishna Jayasankar eyes Asian Games glory Batting at No. 3, Jos Buttler accelerated the innings further with a fiery unbeaten 57 from just 27 deliveries, helping GT post an imposing total. CSK rotated six bowlers during the innings, but only Gurjapneet Singh managed to keep his economy rate below eight. Also Read - French Open 2026: Djokovic, looking for 25th title, avoids Sinner before final CSK’s chase got off to a poor start as the in-form Sanju Samson fell for a golden duck, caught behind off the opening ball bowled by Mohammed Siraj. From there, the innings never gained momentum, although Shivam Dube provided brief resistance with a rapid 47 off 17 balls before GT sealed a dominant win. For Gujarat Titans, Mohammed Siraj, Kagiso Rabada and Rashid Khan claimed three wickets each as CSK were bowled out for 140 in just 13.4 overs. The defeat also marked the third consecutive season in which CSK failed to secure a playoff berth.

Chennai Super Kings’ playoff hopes in IPL 2026 came to an end following a record defeat to Gujarat Titans, while captain Ruturaj Gaikwad was also handed a hefty fine.

IPL 2026 | BCCI penalises Ruturaj Gaikwad after Chennai Super Kings’ elimination - Here’s why

Gujarat Titans (GT) beat Chennai Super Kings (CSK) in IPL 2026 match on Thursday (May 21) by 89 runs in Ahmedabad. Chasing 230, CSK were never in the hunt and were bowled out for a paltry 140 runs in 13.4 overs - ending their season with 12 points from six wins and eight losses. The loss also meant that CSK are out of playoff race with only four teams - PBKS, RR, DC, and KKR - remaining in contention for the one last playoff spot. As for GT, the win meant they will finish the regular season with 18 points in 14 matches on the second spot, barring a huge win by SRH in their last league match.<h2>CSK batters fail to get going</h2>CSK's chase had the worst start possible with Sanju Samson being dismissed on the very first ball and it all went downhill from there on. Mohammed Siraj was on fire and after sending back Samson in the first over, he dismissed skipper Ruturaj Gaikwad (16) and Urvil Patel (0) in space of three balls in the third over to break CSK's chase. Samson's opening partner Matthew Short (24) was also dismissed inside the powerplay, as CSK finished the first six overs at 58/4.Also Read - <a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/can-former-pakistan-pacer-mohammad-amir-play-in-ipl-after-obtaining-british-citizenship-azhar-mahmood-uk-passport-1779371901574">Can ex-PAK pacer Mohammad Amir play in IPL after obtaining British citizenship?</a>Things didn't get better after powerplay either with Kartik Sharma (19) being dismissed in the first over after field restrictions were over. Shivam Dube (47 off 17) then took CSK past 100 with 53-run partnership with Dewald Brevis (8) but no help. Anshul Kamboj (19) also tried to delay the inevitable but CSK were eventually bowled out for 140 in 13.4 overs.<h2>GT top three take game away from CSK</h2>CSK had to win the match against GT to keep the playoff hopes alive but top three batters of Gujarat made sure that five-time champions don't get comfortable throughout the night. For GT, openers Shubman Gill (64 off 37) and Sai Sudharsan (84 off 53) added 125 runs in nearly 12 overs - their record 10th partnership or hundred or more in IPL. Once Gill was out, Jos Buttler came at number three and smacked 57 off 27 balls, adding 82 runs for the second wicket with Sai in just six overs. GT eventually finished with 229/4 in 20 overs, which proved enough in the end.

GT beat CSK by 89 runs in the IPL 2026 match on Thursday (May 21) to end the season with 18 points from nine wins. CSK, meanwhile, crashed out playoff race, finishing season with 6 wins and 8 losses.

Gujarat Titans (GT) beat Chennai Super Kings (CSK) in IPL 2026 match on Thursday (May 21) by 89 runs in Ahmedabad. Chasing 230, CSK were never in the hunt and were bowled out for a paltry 140 runs in 13.4 overs - ending their season with 12 points from six wins and eight losses. The loss also meant that CSK are out of playoff race with only four teams - PBKS, RR, DC, and KKR - remaining in contention for the one last playoff spot. As for GT, the win meant they will finish the regular season with 18 points in 14 matches on the second spot, barring a huge win by SRH in their last league match. CSK batters fail to get going CSK's chase had the worst start possible with Sanju Samson being dismissed on the very first ball and it all went downhill from there on. Mohammed Siraj was on fire and after sending back Samson in the first over, he dismissed skipper Ruturaj Gaikwad (16) and Urvil Patel (0) in space of three balls in the third over to break CSK's chase. Samson's opening partner Matthew Short (24) was also dismissed inside the powerplay, as CSK finished the first six overs at 58/4. Also Read - Can ex-PAK pacer Mohammad Amir play in IPL after obtaining British citizenship? Things didn't get better after powerplay either with Kartik Sharma (19) being dismissed in the first over after field restrictions were over. Shivam Dube (47 off 17) then took CSK past 100 with 53-run partnership with Dewald Brevis (8) but no help. Anshul Kamboj (19) also tried to delay the inevitable but CSK were eventually bowled out for 140 in 13.4 overs. GT top three take game away from CSK CSK had to win the match against GT to keep the playoff hopes alive but top three batters of Gujarat made sure that five-time champions don't get comfortable throughout the night. For GT, openers Shubman Gill (64 off 37) and Sai Sudharsan (84 off 53) added 125 runs in nearly 12 overs - their record 10th partnership or hundred or more in IPL. Once Gill was out, Jos Buttler came at number three and smacked 57 off 27 balls, adding 82 runs for the second wicket with Sai in just six overs. GT eventually finished with 229/4 in 20 overs, which proved enough in the end.

GT beat CSK by 89 runs in the IPL 2026 match on Thursday (May 21) to end the season with 18 points from nine wins. CSK, meanwhile, crashed out playoff race, finishing season with 6 wins and 8 losses.

Who won yesterday's IPL 2026 match between Gujarat Titans vs Chennai Super Kings? Check result

Gujarat Titans (GT) defeated Chennai Super Kings (CSK) by 89 runs in Ahmedabad to end their IPL 2026 campaign on Thursday (May 19). CSK has been knocked out of the tournament with a loss in their last league game, with GT finishing with 18 points from 14 contested matches. As things stand, GT is second on the points table, with the defending champions RCB sitting at the top with as many points and a game remaining.&nbsp;The top-three piled on the runs to lead Gujarat to 229 for the loss of four wickets. Then pacer Mohammed Siraj took three wickets in the first three overs of the Chennai chase, ensuring the visitors never had the momentum as they were bowled out for 140 in the 14th over.&nbsp;Also read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/can-former-pakistan-pacer-mohammad-amir-play-in-ipl-after-obtaining-british-citizenship-azhar-mahmood-uk-passport-1779371901574">Mohammad Amir obtains UK passport; is IPL registration next for former Pakistan pacer?</a>&nbsp;Gujarat's easy win took them to the second in the Indian Premier League (IPL) and eliminated Chennai from playoff contention.&nbsp;Chennai skipper Ruturaj Gaikwad won the toss and decided to field, but Gujarat openers skipper Shubman Gill and Sai Sudharsan looked comfortable.&nbsp;Gill, who hit 37-ball 64 with seven fours and three sixes, and Sai, who made a 53-ball 84 with four sixes and seven fours, shared a 125-run opening partnership. The duo raced to 100 in the tenth over, with Gill taking the early initiative. After Gill fell to Australia's Spencer Johnson, England's Jos Buttler took charge with an aggressive and unbeaten 27-ball 57.&nbsp;Buttler and Sai put on 82 before Sai fell in the 19th over to Indian rookie Anshul Kamboj.&nbsp;Most Chennai bowlers looked ordinary and leaked runs as Gujarat finished at 229-4.&nbsp;Chennai's batters never got going, with player-of-the-match Siraj removing&nbsp; India teammate, Sanju Samson, for a first-ball zero.&nbsp;Siraj removed Gaikwad in the third over after promising season-ball 16, and&nbsp; dismissed Urvil Patel for another duck in the same over. That reduced Chennai to 29-3. Siraj's pace bowling partner, South Africa's Kagiso Rabada, was equally impressive and removed Australian opener Matthew Short after 14-ball 24.&nbsp;Rabada finished with figures of 3-32 in 3.4 overs.&nbsp;In-form Siraj took 3-26 in his four overs.&nbsp;"Ball is coming out nicely," Siraj said after the game. "I'm happy to be driven through covers (and) that's what came off with Samson" wicket, Siraj added.&nbsp;"While bowling in the powerplay, my priority is to build pressure. With that, even Rabada can get wickets".&nbsp;Shivam Dube was the only Chennai batter who put up some resistance. He hit a 17-ball 47 before he fell to Afghanistan's Rashid Khan.&nbsp;Khan finished with 3-18 in his two overs.&nbsp;Gill said it was an "important win".&nbsp;"Happy to go in with the momentum we have," the winning skipper said looking ahead to the playoffs. "Happy with my batting, every time you're out you think you could've done better," Gill added.&nbsp;(With inputs from AFP)

Chennai Super Kings are out of IPL 2026 after a brutal 89-run loss to Gujarat Titans. GT climbs to second while RCB holds the top spot.

Gujarat Titans (GT) defeated Chennai Super Kings (CSK) by 89 runs in Ahmedabad to end their IPL 2026 campaign on Thursday (May 19). CSK has been knocked out of the tournament with a loss in their last league game, with GT finishing with 18 points from 14 contested matches. As things stand, GT is second on the points table, with the defending champions RCB sitting at the top with as many points and a game remaining. The top-three piled on the runs to lead Gujarat to 229 for the loss of four wickets. Then pacer Mohammed Siraj took three wickets in the first three overs of the Chennai chase, ensuring the visitors never had the momentum as they were bowled out for 140 in the 14th over. Also read | Mohammad Amir obtains UK passport; is IPL registration next for former Pakistan pacer? Gujarat's easy win took them to the second in the Indian Premier League (IPL) and eliminated Chennai from playoff contention. Chennai skipper Ruturaj Gaikwad won the toss and decided to field, but Gujarat openers skipper Shubman Gill and Sai Sudharsan looked comfortable. Gill, who hit 37-ball 64 with seven fours and three sixes, and Sai, who made a 53-ball 84 with four sixes and seven fours, shared a 125-run opening partnership. The duo raced to 100 in the tenth over, with Gill taking the early initiative. After Gill fell to Australia's Spencer Johnson, England's Jos Buttler took charge with an aggressive and unbeaten 27-ball 57. Buttler and Sai put on 82 before Sai fell in the 19th over to Indian rookie Anshul Kamboj. Most Chennai bowlers looked ordinary and leaked runs as Gujarat finished at 229-4. Chennai's batters never got going, with player-of-the-match Siraj removing India teammate, Sanju Samson, for a first-ball zero. Siraj removed Gaikwad in the third over after promising season-ball 16, and dismissed Urvil Patel for another duck in the same over. That reduced Chennai to 29-3. Siraj's pace bowling partner, South Africa's Kagiso Rabada, was equally impressive and removed Australian opener Matthew Short after 14-ball 24. Rabada finished with figures of 3-32 in 3.4 overs. In-form Siraj took 3-26 in his four overs. "Ball is coming out nicely," Siraj said after the game. "I'm happy to be driven through covers (and) that's what came off with Samson" wicket, Siraj added. "While bowling in the powerplay, my priority is to build pressure. With that, even Rabada can get wickets". Shivam Dube was the only Chennai batter who put up some resistance. He hit a 17-ball 47 before he fell to Afghanistan's Rashid Khan. Khan finished with 3-18 in his two overs. Gill said it was an "important win". "Happy to go in with the momentum we have," the winning skipper said looking ahead to the playoffs. "Happy with my batting, every time you're out you think you could've done better," Gill added. (With inputs from AFP)

Chennai Super Kings are out of IPL 2026 after a brutal 89-run loss to Gujarat Titans. GT climbs to second while RCB holds the top spot.

Gujarat crush Chennai by 89 runs to end their IPL 2026 campaign

Punjab Kings (PBKS) head coach and former Australian captain Ricky Ponting has weighed in on the debate over stalwarts Rohit Sharma and Virat Kohli’s ODI future. He said the two are on the wrong side of ‘cricketing age’, but are doing enough and consistently to keep them fit and available for selection for the 2027 ODI World Cup. While the chatter around their selection for the 14-team tournament, which is a year and a half away, keeps making headlines, Ponting has warned everyone against ‘writing them off’.&nbsp;Having retired from two of the three formats earlier, Rohit and Kohli now only feature in One-Dayers. Outside of that, the two have made rare appearances in India’s domestic tournaments recently, including the Ranji and Duleep Trophy tournaments; the two are also regulars for their respective IPL teams. While Kohli has redefined consistency levels in this season, Rohit returned in the best shape Ponting has seen him in a decade in IPL 2026. &nbsp;The two have also been picked in India’s next ODI assignment, the three-match ODI series against Afghanistan, starting June 14. Afterwards, the two will likely travel to England for the scheduled three-match ODIs in June. With plenty of One-Day cricket lined up for Team India ahead of the next showpiece event, the two will have time and games to gear up for their last ODI World Cup, this time in Africa.&nbsp;Also read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/can-former-pakistan-pacer-mohammad-amir-play-in-ipl-after-obtaining-british-citizenship-azhar-mahmood-uk-passport-1779371901574">Mohammad Amir obtains UK passport; is IPL registration next for former Pakistan pacer?</a> &nbsp;"I can see them pushing ahead and trying to get there. One thing I've always said about champion players is you never say no. You never write them off,” Ponting said about the batting duo during his chat with the PTI. &nbsp;“Virat's been a good example of that again through this IPL. He's not playing as much international cricket as he once was, but that determination and want to win is still there. Rohit Sharma has turned up at this IPL in better physical condition than I've seen him probably in about 10 or 12 years.&nbsp; “So the passion is still there for those guys to push on and make themselves the best players they can be. So like I said, ‘You never say never," Ponting added. &nbsp;Meanwhile, Ponting’s Punjab Kings have suffered a horrific fall since leading the points table for close to a month. After winning their first six games, the Kings have lost their next six, and currently sit in fifth place on the IPL 2026 points table. To qualify for the next round, Punjab must not only win their last league match (against LSG), but also hope for other results in their favour. &nbsp;On the other hand, Rohit’s Mumbai Indians are ninth on the standings, eliminated from the playoff race, with just four wins in 13 contested matches. Rohit’s batting partner, Virat’s RCB, however, is at the top, with 18 points from 13 matches. RCB is among the three teams, alongside GT and SRH, to have punched their playoff qualification tickets.&nbsp;

Ricky Ponting has strongly backed Rohit Sharma and Virat Kohli to feature in the 2027 ODI World Cup. Highlighting their phenomenal fitness and passion in IPL 2026, the Australian legend warned against writing off the iconic duo. 

Punjab Kings (PBKS) head coach and former Australian captain Ricky Ponting has weighed in on the debate over stalwarts Rohit Sharma and Virat Kohli’s ODI future. He said the two are on the wrong side of ‘cricketing age’, but are doing enough and consistently to keep them fit and available for selection for the 2027 ODI World Cup. While the chatter around their selection for the 14-team tournament, which is a year and a half away, keeps making headlines, Ponting has warned everyone against ‘writing them off’. Having retired from two of the three formats earlier, Rohit and Kohli now only feature in One-Dayers. Outside of that, the two have made rare appearances in India’s domestic tournaments recently, including the Ranji and Duleep Trophy tournaments; the two are also regulars for their respective IPL teams. While Kohli has redefined consistency levels in this season, Rohit returned in the best shape Ponting has seen him in a decade in IPL 2026. The two have also been picked in India’s next ODI assignment, the three-match ODI series against Afghanistan, starting June 14. Afterwards, the two will likely travel to England for the scheduled three-match ODIs in June. With plenty of One-Day cricket lined up for Team India ahead of the next showpiece event, the two will have time and games to gear up for their last ODI World Cup, this time in Africa. Also read | Mohammad Amir obtains UK passport; is IPL registration next for former Pakistan pacer? "I can see them pushing ahead and trying to get there. One thing I've always said about champion players is you never say no. You never write them off,” Ponting said about the batting duo during his chat with the PTI. “Virat's been a good example of that again through this IPL. He's not playing as much international cricket as he once was, but that determination and want to win is still there. Rohit Sharma has turned up at this IPL in better physical condition than I've seen him probably in about 10 or 12 years. “So the passion is still there for those guys to push on and make themselves the best players they can be. So like I said, ‘You never say never," Ponting added. Meanwhile, Ponting’s Punjab Kings have suffered a horrific fall since leading the points table for close to a month. After winning their first six games, the Kings have lost their next six, and currently sit in fifth place on the IPL 2026 points table. To qualify for the next round, Punjab must not only win their last league match (against LSG), but also hope for other results in their favour. On the other hand, Rohit’s Mumbai Indians are ninth on the standings, eliminated from the playoff race, with just four wins in 13 contested matches. Rohit’s batting partner, Virat’s RCB, however, is at the top, with 18 points from 13 matches. RCB is among the three teams, alongside GT and SRH, to have punched their playoff qualification tickets.

Ricky Ponting has strongly backed Rohit Sharma and Virat Kohli to feature in the 2027 ODI World Cup. Highlighting their phenomenal fitness and passion in IPL 2026, the Australian legend warned against writing off the iconic duo.&nbsp;

‘Never write off champions’: PBKS coach Ponting backs Rohit, Kohli for 2027 ODI World Cup

Former Pakistan seamer Mohammad Amir has obtained his UK citizenship, making himself eligible to register for the IPL auction next season. Since retiring from international cricket for the second time after the 2024 T20 World Cup debacle in the Americas, the left-arm quick featured in the PSL and has acquired a British passport in the meantime. He earlier revealed that he was in the process of obtaining that through his wife, Narjis Khan, who is a British Citizen and stays in England.&nbsp;Per the latest report, the process is now successfully completed, opening windows for Amir to potentially register as a British overseas player across franchise leagues, including the cash-rich Indian Premier League. This development gained prominence after Amir reposted an Instagram story mentioning his nationality status change.&nbsp;Also read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/ipl-2026-ms-dhoni-leaves-csk-camp-early-confirmed-to-miss-away-gt-fixture-thumb-injury-calf-strain-1779362491610">IPL 2026: MS Dhoni leaves CSK camp early, confirmed to miss away GT fixture</a> &nbsp;Meanwhile, during a TV show in Pakistan named ‘Haarna Mana Hai’, Amir himself claimed the possibility of registering for IPL auction from 2026 onwards if and when he receives his UK passport. &nbsp;“By next year, I will have the opportunity to play in the IPL, and if given the chance, then why not? I will play in the IPL,” Amir had said.<h3>Could Amir play in the IPL?</h3>As a Pakistani national, he couldn’t have because the BCCI had barred all Pakistani players from registering in IPL auctions since the 2008 Mumbai terror attack. Although several Pakistani A-listers played in the inaugural season in 2008, including Shahid Afridi, Shoaib Akhtar, Mohammad Hafeez, Mohammad Asif, and others, none featured after that. &nbsp;However, a rare instance occurred during the 2012 edition, when former Pakistan all-rounder Azhar Mahmood played for Kings XI Punjab (now Punjab Kings) for two seasons, and later, for the Kolkata Knight Riders in 2015. That happened because he also had obtained a UK passport and played in the league as a British overseas player. In the 23 IPL matches, Mahmood picked up 29 wickets, scoring 700 runs.&nbsp; &nbsp;On those grounds, Amir, who is now a British citizen, can also apply for next season’s auction, provided the BCCI and IPL’s governing council make specific changes around it.

Former Pakistan pacer Mohammad Amir has officially obtained British citizenship and a UK passport. Find out how this development bypasses the IPL's geopolitical ban on Pakistani players, drawing a direct parallel to Azhar Mahmood. 

Former Pakistan seamer Mohammad Amir has obtained his UK citizenship, making himself eligible to register for the IPL auction next season. Since retiring from international cricket for the second time after the 2024 T20 World Cup debacle in the Americas, the left-arm quick featured in the PSL and has acquired a British passport in the meantime. He earlier revealed that he was in the process of obtaining that through his wife, Narjis Khan, who is a British Citizen and stays in England. Per the latest report, the process is now successfully completed, opening windows for Amir to potentially register as a British overseas player across franchise leagues, including the cash-rich Indian Premier League. This development gained prominence after Amir reposted an Instagram story mentioning his nationality status change. Also read | IPL 2026: MS Dhoni leaves CSK camp early, confirmed to miss away GT fixture Meanwhile, during a TV show in Pakistan named ‘Haarna Mana Hai’, Amir himself claimed the possibility of registering for IPL auction from 2026 onwards if and when he receives his UK passport. “By next year, I will have the opportunity to play in the IPL, and if given the chance, then why not? I will play in the IPL,” Amir had said. Could Amir play in the IPL? As a Pakistani national, he couldn’t have because the BCCI had barred all Pakistani players from registering in IPL auctions since the 2008 Mumbai terror attack. Although several Pakistani A-listers played in the inaugural season in 2008, including Shahid Afridi, Shoaib Akhtar, Mohammad Hafeez, Mohammad Asif, and others, none featured after that. However, a rare instance occurred during the 2012 edition, when former Pakistan all-rounder Azhar Mahmood played for Kings XI Punjab (now Punjab Kings) for two seasons, and later, for the Kolkata Knight Riders in 2015. That happened because he also had obtained a UK passport and played in the league as a British overseas player. In the 23 IPL matches, Mahmood picked up 29 wickets, scoring 700 runs. On those grounds, Amir, who is now a British citizen, can also apply for next season’s auction, provided the BCCI and IPL’s governing council make specific changes around it.

Former Pakistan pacer Mohammad Amir has officially obtained British citizenship and a UK passport. Find out how this development bypasses the IPL's geopolitical ban on Pakistani players, drawing a direct parallel to Azhar Mahmood.&nbsp;

Mohammad Amir obtains UK passport; is IPL registration next for former Pakistan pacer?

Former CSK captain and cricket veteran MS Dhoni is confirmed to miss his IPL team’s final league fixture (against the Gujarat Titans in Ahmedabad) on Thursday (May 21). Dhoni, who last appeared during CSK’s post-match lap at the Chepauk, has returned to his hometown in Ranchi. Having recovered from the calf strain he sustained just ahead of the tournament, Dhoni later suffered a setback (during his recovery), which eventually kept him on the sidelines throughout IPL 2026. He later suffered a thumb injury and will miss CSK’s away game against GT.&nbsp;Even though a win over the Titans will not guarantee them a place in this year’s playoffs, a loss will definitely rule them out of the last-four race. Dhoni, however, would link up with the team should they beat GT and somehow qualify for the playoffs.&nbsp;Also read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/kkr-vs-mi-kolkata-knight-riders-make-it-6-wins-in-last-7-games-to-keep-tight-playoff-hopes-alive-1779303908507">KKR vs MI: Kolkata Knight Riders make it 6 wins in last 7 games to keep tight playoff hopes alive</a> &nbsp;“I can confirm Dhoni is not here (Ahmedabad) with the team, but if we do happen to qualify, he’ll definitely join back up with the squad. He’s got a bit of a sore thumb. He’s recovering nicely, but he won’t be ready for this match. If we manage to get through to the playoffs, hopefully he’ll be alright,” Hussey said ahead of the team’s away fixture. &nbsp;Although the 44-year-old came close to returning to the playing XI for the away LSG game and the home tie against SRH, he decided against making himself available because he was not feeling 100 per cent (about his fitness). Dhoni was even reported to be travelling with the team to Lucknow, but dropped out at the last minute despite arrangements being made.<h3>What is MS Dhoni’s future at CSK?</h3>Dhoni will turn 45 in July this year, and considering he kept himself unavailable for selection (this season) because of his age (catching up with his match fitness), he is unlikely to return as a player next season. But, having said that, and for a few years now, Thala has kept surprising everyone with his decisions to play the next season. &nbsp;As things stand, CSK is currently seventh on the points table with 12 points from 13 contested matches.

Is MS Dhoni playing today? CSK face a must-win IPL 2026 clash against GT, but MS Dhoni has returned to Ranchi due to injury. Get the latest update and playoff scenarios.

Former CSK captain and cricket veteran MS Dhoni is confirmed to miss his IPL team’s final league fixture (against the Gujarat Titans in Ahmedabad) on Thursday (May 21). Dhoni, who last appeared during CSK’s post-match lap at the Chepauk, has returned to his hometown in Ranchi. Having recovered from the calf strain he sustained just ahead of the tournament, Dhoni later suffered a setback (during his recovery), which eventually kept him on the sidelines throughout IPL 2026. He later suffered a thumb injury and will miss CSK’s away game against GT. Even though a win over the Titans will not guarantee them a place in this year’s playoffs, a loss will definitely rule them out of the last-four race. Dhoni, however, would link up with the team should they beat GT and somehow qualify for the playoffs. Also read | KKR vs MI: Kolkata Knight Riders make it 6 wins in last 7 games to keep tight playoff hopes alive “I can confirm Dhoni is not here (Ahmedabad) with the team, but if we do happen to qualify, he’ll definitely join back up with the squad. He’s got a bit of a sore thumb. He’s recovering nicely, but he won’t be ready for this match. If we manage to get through to the playoffs, hopefully he’ll be alright,” Hussey said ahead of the team’s away fixture. Although the 44-year-old came close to returning to the playing XI for the away LSG game and the home tie against SRH, he decided against making himself available because he was not feeling 100 per cent (about his fitness). Dhoni was even reported to be travelling with the team to Lucknow, but dropped out at the last minute despite arrangements being made. What is MS Dhoni’s future at CSK? Dhoni will turn 45 in July this year, and considering he kept himself unavailable for selection (this season) because of his age (catching up with his match fitness), he is unlikely to return as a player next season. But, having said that, and for a few years now, Thala has kept surprising everyone with his decisions to play the next season. As things stand, CSK is currently seventh on the points table with 12 points from 13 contested matches.

Is MS Dhoni playing today? CSK face a must-win IPL 2026 clash against GT, but MS Dhoni has returned to Ranchi due to injury. Get the latest update and playoff scenarios.

IPL 2026: MS Dhoni leaves CSK camp early, confirmed to miss away GT fixture

Kolkata Knight Riders (KKR) beat Mumbai Indians (MI) in IPL 2026 match on Wednesday (May 20) by four wickets at Eden Garden in a low scoring game to keep the slim playoff hopes alive. Chasing a below par 148, KKR reached the target in 18.5 overs with Manish Pandey being the highest scorer, hitting 45 off 33 balls. This was KKR's sixth win in the last seven matches and the now have 13 points from 13 games with one more league match left. MI, on the other hand, continued their dismal season with ninth loss in 13 games, leaving them with only four points - joint-lowest in the season along with Lucknow Super Giants (LSG).Also Read - <a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/in-ipl-teams-take-care-of-players-fitness-bcci-secretary-devajit-saikia-on-a-listers-missing-afghanistan-series-bumrah-varun-pandya-rohit-jadeja-axar-1779291282820">‘IPL teams handle players’ fitness...’: Saikia on A-listers missing AFG series</a><h2>KKR make it six in seven</h2>KKR didn't have great start to their chase, losing explosive opener Finn Allen in the first over itself. Skipper Ajinkya Rahane (21) and Manish Pandey then added 38 runs for the second wicket before Rahane too was dismissed in the last over of the powerplay. Aussie all-rounder Cameron Green (4) also deaprted six runs later, leaving KKR reeling at 54/3. Rovman Powell (40) and Pandey then added 64 runs for the fourth wicket before both of them were dismissed in space of six runs, making KKR scorecard 124/5 from 118/3. Ranki Singh (9 not out), Tejasvi Dahiya (11), and Anukul Roy (4 not out) then added the remaining runs to see KKR home with seven balls and four wickets left.<h2>MI batters fail again</h2>The miserable form of MI batters continued vs KKR as well after being asked to bat first. Ryan Rickelton (6), Rohit Sharma (15), Naman Dhir (0), and Suryakumar Yadav (15) were dismissed inside powerplay as MI finished first six overs at 48/4. Tilak Varma (20), skipper Hardik Pandya (26), and Will Jacks (14) helped steadied the innings before Corbin Bosch's 18-ball 32 not out and a 42-run partnership with Deepak Chahar (10 off 7) took them to a respectable but still below par total of 147/8 in 20 overs.

KKR beat MI by four wickets in IPL 2026 match at Eden Gardens on Wednesday (May 20) to keep the slim playoff hopes alive. Manish Pandey was the Player of the Match (POTM) for his 33-ball 45 in a chase of 148.

Kolkata Knight Riders (KKR) beat Mumbai Indians (MI) in IPL 2026 match on Wednesday (May 20) by four wickets at Eden Garden in a low scoring game to keep the slim playoff hopes alive. Chasing a below par 148, KKR reached the target in 18.5 overs with Manish Pandey being the highest scorer, hitting 45 off 33 balls. This was KKR's sixth win in the last seven matches and the now have 13 points from 13 games with one more league match left. MI, on the other hand, continued their dismal season with ninth loss in 13 games, leaving them with only four points - joint-lowest in the season along with Lucknow Super Giants (LSG). Also Read - ‘IPL teams handle players’ fitness...’: Saikia on A-listers missing AFG series KKR make it six in seven KKR didn't have great start to their chase, losing explosive opener Finn Allen in the first over itself. Skipper Ajinkya Rahane (21) and Manish Pandey then added 38 runs for the second wicket before Rahane too was dismissed in the last over of the powerplay. Aussie all-rounder Cameron Green (4) also deaprted six runs later, leaving KKR reeling at 54/3. Rovman Powell (40) and Pandey then added 64 runs for the fourth wicket before both of them were dismissed in space of six runs, making KKR scorecard 124/5 from 118/3. Ranki Singh (9 not out), Tejasvi Dahiya (11), and Anukul Roy (4 not out) then added the remaining runs to see KKR home with seven balls and four wickets left. MI batters fail again The miserable form of MI batters continued vs KKR as well after being asked to bat first. Ryan Rickelton (6), Rohit Sharma (15), Naman Dhir (0), and Suryakumar Yadav (15) were dismissed inside powerplay as MI finished first six overs at 48/4. Tilak Varma (20), skipper Hardik Pandya (26), and Will Jacks (14) helped steadied the innings before Corbin Bosch's 18-ball 32 not out and a 42-run partnership with Deepak Chahar (10 off 7) took them to a respectable but still below par total of 147/8 in 20 overs.

KKR beat MI by four wickets in IPL 2026 match at Eden Gardens on Wednesday (May 20) to keep the slim playoff hopes alive. Manish Pandey was the Player of the Match (POTM) for his 33-ball 45 in a chase of 148.

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

Kolkata Knight Riders (KKR) have won their sixth match in the last seven games to accumulate 13 points in as many outings, keeping slim hopes of a tight IPL 2026 playoff spot alive. A four-wicket win over the Mumbai Indians (MI) in their penultimate league game this season, KKR jumped to the sixth spot, surpassing another contender, CSK. 45 from KKR veteran Manish Pandey and a brilliant 40 from Rovman Powell kept the hosts ahead in the 148-run chase at the Eden Gardens. KKR won the match with four wickets and seven balls to spare.

<blockquote class="twitter-tweet">Another 2️⃣ vital points scored ✅ Fourth win in five games and <a href="https://twitter.com/KKRiders?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@KKRiders</a> are still in the race for playoffs 🫡💜 Updates ▶️ <a href="https://t.co/Aw11jLoww5">https://t.co/Aw11jLoww5</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/KKRvMI?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#KKRvMI</a> <a href="https://t.co/2l7g0Wo9S2">pic.twitter.com/2l7g0Wo9S2</a>&mdash; IndianPremierLeague (@IPL) <a href="https://twitter.com/IPL/status/2057175375055393207?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">May 20, 2026</a></blockquote> <script async src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script>

KKR won the toss and elected to field first, with rain predicted to spoil proceedings later during the game. Reducing Mumbai to 41 for four inside the Powerplay had KKR in the driver’s seat. Handy contributions from the middle and the lower order, including gritty 20s from Tilak Varma and returning captain Hardik Pandya, MI found a little window to get back into the game.&nbsp; &nbsp;Also read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/in-ipl-teams-take-care-of-players-fitness-bcci-secretary-devajit-saikia-on-a-listers-missing-afghanistan-series-bumrah-varun-pandya-rohit-jadeja-axar-1779291282820">‘In IPL, teams take care of players’ fitness’: BCCI’s Saikia on A-listers missing Afghanistan series</a>&nbsp;However, what propelled them to a fighting 147 for eight in 20 overs was an almost game-changing 32 off just 18 balls from Corbin Bosch at the death. For KKR, medium pacers Cameron Green, Saurabh Dubey and Kartik Tyagi returned with two wickets each.<h3>KKR still alive in playoff race</h3>KKR needed to win their remaining two games, including this one, to give them any chance of qualifying for the next round. After losing their star batter Finn Allen inside the first over, the onus fell on the Indian pair of the skipper Ajinkya Rahane and Pandey. They added 38 for the second wicket before Bosch returned to remove Rahane on 21. Green departed soon after, with KKR’s scorecard reading 54 for three inside eight overs. &nbsp;It is where it turned around for the hosts, as Pandey and Powell bailed the team out of trouble, adding 64 for the fourth wicket. By then, KKR had almost won this game, but needed little assistance from the lower order before wrapping things up. &nbsp;For the nth time this season, Rinku Singh remained unbeaten on nine, having not been dismissed this season since April 17.&nbsp; &nbsp;Meanwhile, KKR’s final match is against Delhi Capitals on Sunday evening at the Eden Gardens.

KKR keep their slim IPL 2026 playoff hopes alive with a thrilling 4-wicket win over MI at Eden Gardens, thanks to crucial knocks from Manish Pandey and Rovman Powell.


Kolkata Knight Riders (KKR) have won their sixth match in the last seven games to accumulate 13 points in as many outings, keeping slim hopes of a tight IPL 2026 playoff spot alive. A four-wicket win over the Mumbai Indians (MI) in their penultimate league game this season, KKR jumped to the sixth spot, surpassing another contender, CSK. 45 from KKR veteran Manish Pandey and a brilliant 40 from Rovman Powell kept the hosts ahead in the 148-run chase at the Eden Gardens. KKR won the match with four wickets and seven balls to spare.

KKR keep their slim IPL 2026 playoff hopes alive with a thrilling 4-wicket win over MI at Eden Gardens, thanks to crucial knocks from Manish Pandey and Rovman Powell.

KKR vs MI: Kolkata Knight Riders make it 6 wins in last 7 games to keep tight playoff hopes alive

Injuries and workload management remain usual topics of discussion after each IPL season, with several first-team players often rested or absent for the next series. With IPL 2026 concluding in the next 11 days, the selectors have already picked squads for the one-off Test against Afghanistan and a three-match series that follows, starting June 6. While the selectors have rested ace quick Jasprit Bumrah, and two all-rounders, Ravindra Jadeja and Axar Patel, number one T20I bowler Varun Chakaravarthy will miss the three ODIs due to a fractured toe; the reports of Arshdeep Singh bowling through niggle have also surfaced online.&nbsp;Non-stop cricket has taken a toll on every player, at least on those who are circling across formats and on the road since January this year. Mumbai Indians captain Hardik Pandya and veteran opener Rohit Sharma also missed a few games for their IPL franchise this season due to respective injuries, with frontline spinner Kuldeep Yadav also losing his zip in IPL 2026. &nbsp;Answering doubts about regular injuries to A-listers and how they impact squads and performances in the international series that follows, the BCCI secretary Devajit Saikia said the BCCI cannot micro-manage players during the tournament. Speaking with the Times of India (TOI) in Guwahati, Saikia said during the IPL, the franchises are the ones taking care of the players’ injuries and fitness.&nbsp;&nbsp;Also read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/no-more-rank-turners-india-to-change-pitch-strategy-for-home-tests-as-wtc-top-two-finish-looms-1779288801874">No more rank turners? India to change pitch strategy for home Tests as WTC top-two finish looms</a> &nbsp;"BCCI can't micro-manage the workload and fitness of the players during the IPL. We can't micro-manage the workload and fitness of the players during the IPL, because otherwise, it will be interference in the functioning of the franchises by the BCCI regarding the activities of their teams and players," Saikia said in a chat with TOI.&nbsp; &nbsp;“So far as the IPL is concerned, the franchisees do take care of the injuries and the fitness of the players. Of course, our physios from the Centre of Excellence (in Bengaluru) are also monitoring them, giving them the workload as well as the plan for how to keep them fit. So, there is monitoring, but we cannot interfere too much when the IPL is going on. &nbsp;“Had it been the Indian team's situation, our control would have been more. Now, we are giving that freedom to the franchisees to take a call on their players, and we definitely look into their fitness level when it comes to selecting the national team,” Saikia stated.<h3>Check Team India’s Test and ODI squads for the Afghanistan series –</h3>Test Squad - Shubman Gill (captain), Yashasvi Jaiswal, KL Rahul (vice-captain), Sai Sudharsan, Rishabh Pant, Devdutt Padikkal, Nitish Kumar Reddy, Washington Sundar, Kuldeep Yadav, Mohammed Siraj, Prasidh Krishna, Manav Suthar, Gurnoor Brar, Harsh Dubey and Dhruv Jurel &nbsp;ODI squad - Shubman Gill (captain), Rohit Sharma, Virat Kohli, Shreyas Iyer (vice-captain), KL Rahul, Ishan Kishan, Hardik Pandya, Nitish Kumar Reddy, Washington Sundar, Kuldeep Yadav, Arshdeep Singh, Prasidh Krishna, Prince Yadav, Gurnoor Brar and Harsh Dubey

BCCI Secretary Devajit Saikia addresses growing player injury concerns ahead of the Afghanistan series, ruling out board interference in IPL workload management. Check out the official Indian Test and ODI squads under captain Shubman Gill.

Injuries and workload management remain usual topics of discussion after each IPL season, with several first-team players often rested or absent for the next series. With IPL 2026 concluding in the next 11 days, the selectors have already picked squads for the one-off Test against Afghanistan and a three-match series that follows, starting June 6. While the selectors have rested ace quick Jasprit Bumrah, and two all-rounders, Ravindra Jadeja and Axar Patel, number one T20I bowler Varun Chakaravarthy will miss the three ODIs due to a fractured toe; the reports of Arshdeep Singh bowling through niggle have also surfaced online. Non-stop cricket has taken a toll on every player, at least on those who are circling across formats and on the road since January this year. Mumbai Indians captain Hardik Pandya and veteran opener Rohit Sharma also missed a few games for their IPL franchise this season due to respective injuries, with frontline spinner Kuldeep Yadav also losing his zip in IPL 2026. Answering doubts about regular injuries to A-listers and how they impact squads and performances in the international series that follows, the BCCI secretary Devajit Saikia said the BCCI cannot micro-manage players during the tournament. Speaking with the Times of India (TOI) in Guwahati, Saikia said during the IPL, the franchises are the ones taking care of the players’ injuries and fitness. Also read | No more rank turners? India to change pitch strategy for home Tests as WTC top-two finish looms "BCCI can't micro-manage the workload and fitness of the players during the IPL. We can't micro-manage the workload and fitness of the players during the IPL, because otherwise, it will be interference in the functioning of the franchises by the BCCI regarding the activities of their teams and players," Saikia said in a chat with TOI. “So far as the IPL is concerned, the franchisees do take care of the injuries and the fitness of the players. Of course, our physios from the Centre of Excellence (in Bengaluru) are also monitoring them, giving them the workload as well as the plan for how to keep them fit. So, there is monitoring, but we cannot interfere too much when the IPL is going on. “Had it been the Indian team's situation, our control would have been more. Now, we are giving that freedom to the franchisees to take a call on their players, and we definitely look into their fitness level when it comes to selecting the national team,” Saikia stated. Check Team India’s Test and ODI squads for the Afghanistan series – Test Squad - Shubman Gill (captain), Yashasvi Jaiswal, KL Rahul (vice-captain), Sai Sudharsan, Rishabh Pant, Devdutt Padikkal, Nitish Kumar Reddy, Washington Sundar, Kuldeep Yadav, Mohammed Siraj, Prasidh Krishna, Manav Suthar, Gurnoor Brar, Harsh Dubey and Dhruv Jurel ODI squad - Shubman Gill (captain), Rohit Sharma, Virat Kohli, Shreyas Iyer (vice-captain), KL Rahul, Ishan Kishan, Hardik Pandya, Nitish Kumar Reddy, Washington Sundar, Kuldeep Yadav, Arshdeep Singh, Prasidh Krishna, Prince Yadav, Gurnoor Brar and Harsh Dubey

BCCI Secretary Devajit Saikia addresses growing player injury concerns ahead of the Afghanistan series, ruling out board interference in IPL workload management. Check out the official Indian Test and ODI squads under captain Shubman Gill.

‘In IPL, teams take care of players’ fitness’: BCCI’s Saikia on A-listers missing Afghanistan series

The BCCI and the Indian Team management have mutually decided to do away with the 'rank-turner pitch strategy', which they kept deploying for years in search of dominance in Tests. And although they enjoyed immense success for over a decade, they were found wanting in home conditions (in the past 18 months) on similar tracks, urging the decision-makers to go back to playing on surfaces that wear and tear with passing days, not inside the first session.&nbsp;A series whitewash (0-3) at the hands of New Zealand (in 2024) and another one almost a year later against South Africa (0-2) hurt India a lot. Not only did it break their bubble of always succeeding by preparing the rank turners, but it also dented their chances of climbing the WTC points table (this cycle). The Shubman Gill-led Indian Team currently sits in sixth place, one position below Bangladesh, which recently whitewashed Pakistan at home.&nbsp;Also read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/2025-27-wtc-cycle-points-table-standings-bangladesh-overtake-india-after-historic-home-sweep-vs-pakistan-78-run-win-second-test-sylhet-1779284082586">WTC Points Table: Bangladesh overtake India after historic home sweep vs Pakistan</a> &nbsp;A Times of India (TOI) report claims that the New Zealand series blunder was an eye-opener, and with the Proteas series happening, it prompted the management to finally move away from preparing pitches that turn from day one. Multiple discussions have already taken place, having influenced the selection of venues for the forthcoming home Border-Gavaskar series in January 2027. &nbsp;Sources close to the information reveal the board and management have gradually moved away from red-soil pitches that provide sharp turns, variable bounce and deteriorate from day one. Instead of chasing results from the word go, the think tank looks at the usage of black soil and mixed soil as the way forward. Besides, the Indian batter’s inability to play spin, contrary to the notion that they do it well, has also led to this decision. &nbsp;"Mullanpur, Nagpur, Chennai, Guwahati, Ranchi and Ahmedabad are the venues for India's next six home Tests, and they have been carefully selected keeping the pitches, soil and conditions in mind. Most of these venues offer red, black and mixed-soil options, but all of them can produce tracks that will last five days. Our batters haven't looked comfortable playing on turners that start breaking from Day 1, and early finishes are not broadcaster-friendly either," a source said, as quoted by TOI.&nbsp; &nbsp;Meanwhile, India will host Afghanistan for a one-off Test shortly after the IPL 2026 concludes, with Mullanpur staging that non-WTC match. India’s next Test assignment at home after this is a series against the West Indies later in the year, with the BGT 2027 being the marquee one.

In a massive tactical shift, the BCCI and team management are officially ditching 'rank-turners' for home Test matches. Discover how recent home series defeats and batting struggles have forced India to change its pitch strategy ahead of the upcoming Test calendar.

The BCCI and the Indian Team management have mutually decided to do away with the 'rank-turner pitch strategy', which they kept deploying for years in search of dominance in Tests. And although they enjoyed immense success for over a decade, they were found wanting in home conditions (in the past 18 months) on similar tracks, urging the decision-makers to go back to playing on surfaces that wear and tear with passing days, not inside the first session. A series whitewash (0-3) at the hands of New Zealand (in 2024) and another one almost a year later against South Africa (0-2) hurt India a lot. Not only did it break their bubble of always succeeding by preparing the rank turners, but it also dented their chances of climbing the WTC points table (this cycle). The Shubman Gill-led Indian Team currently sits in sixth place, one position below Bangladesh, which recently whitewashed Pakistan at home. Also read | WTC Points Table: Bangladesh overtake India after historic home sweep vs Pakistan A Times of India (TOI) report claims that the New Zealand series blunder was an eye-opener, and with the Proteas series happening, it prompted the management to finally move away from preparing pitches that turn from day one. Multiple discussions have already taken place, having influenced the selection of venues for the forthcoming home Border-Gavaskar series in January 2027. Sources close to the information reveal the board and management have gradually moved away from red-soil pitches that provide sharp turns, variable bounce and deteriorate from day one. Instead of chasing results from the word go, the think tank looks at the usage of black soil and mixed soil as the way forward. Besides, the Indian batter’s inability to play spin, contrary to the notion that they do it well, has also led to this decision. "Mullanpur, Nagpur, Chennai, Guwahati, Ranchi and Ahmedabad are the venues for India's next six home Tests, and they have been carefully selected keeping the pitches, soil and conditions in mind. Most of these venues offer red, black and mixed-soil options, but all of them can produce tracks that will last five days. Our batters haven't looked comfortable playing on turners that start breaking from Day 1, and early finishes are not broadcaster-friendly either," a source said, as quoted by TOI. Meanwhile, India will host Afghanistan for a one-off Test shortly after the IPL 2026 concludes, with Mullanpur staging that non-WTC match. India’s next Test assignment at home after this is a series against the West Indies later in the year, with the BGT 2027 being the marquee one.

In a massive tactical shift, the BCCI and team management are officially ditching 'rank-turners' for home Test matches. Discover how recent home series defeats and batting struggles have forced India to change its pitch strategy ahead of the upcoming Test calendar.

No more rank turners? India to change pitch strategy for home Tests as WTC top-two finish looms

Bangladesh scripted history on Wednesday (May 20) by completing a maiden Test series whitewash (2-0) against Pakistan at home. The Tigers beat Pakistan by 78 runs in the second Test in Sylhet, in addition to their first win over the Asian giants in the previous game in Mirpur by 104 runs. A 2-0 win helped them jump higher to fifth place on the 2025-27 cycle, one place above two-time runners-up India. Bangladesh now has two wins, a loss and a draw in four contested matches in this cycle, while India, which dropped a place, has four wins, as many losses and a draw in nine matches.&nbsp;An away loss for Pakistan in this WTC cycle leaves them in eighth place with just one win in four contested games thus far. While Bangladesh and India’s PCTs read 58.33 and 48.15, respectively, Pakistan’s PCT is below 10 (8.33); only the West Indies is lower, in ninth place, with seven losses and a draw in eight matches. Their PCT reads a mere 4.17.&nbsp;Also read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/ban-vs-pak-2nd-test-2026-bangladesh-players-troll-mohammad-rizwan-after-his-heated-exchange-with-litton-das-watch-cut-50-for-his-overacting-1779194100187">‘Cut 50 for overacting’: Bangladesh players troll Rizwan after his heated exchange with Litton Das – WATCH</a> &nbsp;Australia (87.50) and New Zealand (77.78) are the table toppers. The defending WTC champions, South Africa, are third on the list with a PCT reading of 75, and Sri Lanka is fourth (66.67).

<blockquote class="twitter-tweet">Bangladesh climb big in the <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/WTC27?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#WTC27</a> standings with a clean sweep over Pakistan 📈 Read more ➡️ <a href="https://t.co/CKIIVWwQvx">https://t.co/CKIIVWwQvx</a> <a href="https://t.co/7i9zQ2akxm">pic.twitter.com/7i9zQ2akxm</a>&mdash; ICC (@ICC) <a href="https://twitter.com/ICC/status/2057077384701206699?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">May 20, 2026</a></blockquote> <script async src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script>

It was Bangladesh’s fourth successive Test win over Pakistan. After they defeated them in a Test in Pakistan last year - their first win in this format in 23 years, later completing a 2-0 clean sweep, Bangladesh repeated their feat, but this time in the home conditions.&nbsp; &nbsp;Pakistan Test captain Shan Masood left his future to the selectors but commented on what needs to be done to revive their Test cricket.&nbsp; &nbsp;"My intentions are clean. I took on this job to improve our Test cricket. There are things that need to be discussed with the board, and the decision is always the board's. But my intentions have always been on how to improve this side because [I feel] you should always take on challenges and accept opportunities.&nbsp; &nbsp;"There's many things that we need to build on. You won't build from wholesale changes; you will build from identifying what we do well, what we do badly. How can we reduce those mistakes because, as I've said before, in Tests, mistakes over five days are very costly,” he continued. &nbsp;Meanwhile, following the six-match white-ball series against Australia at home, starting May 30, Pakistan will next travel to England for a three-match Test series, starting with a first Test in August at Lord’s.&nbsp; &nbsp;On the other hand, the Indian Test team will be in action next against Afghanistan for a one-off non-WTC cycle match, beginning June 6 in New Chandigarh.

Bangladesh creates history by completing a maiden 2-0 home Test series sweep against Pakistan in Sylhet. The stunning victory leapfrogs the Tigers over India into 5th place on the updated WTC points table! Read the match breakdown and reaction from Shan Masood.

Bangladesh scripted history on Wednesday (May 20) by completing a maiden Test series whitewash (2-0) against Pakistan at home. The Tigers beat Pakistan by 78 runs in the second Test in Sylhet, in addition to their first win over the Asian giants in the previous game in Mirpur by 104 runs. A 2-0 win helped them jump higher to fifth place on the 2025-27 cycle, one place above two-time runners-up India. Bangladesh now has two wins, a loss and a draw in four contested matches in this cycle, while India, which dropped a place, has four wins, as many losses and a draw in nine matches. An away loss for Pakistan in this WTC cycle leaves them in eighth place with just one win in four contested games thus far. While Bangladesh and India’s PCTs read 58.33 and 48.15, respectively, Pakistan’s PCT is below 10 (8.33); only the West Indies is lower, in ninth place, with seven losses and a draw in eight matches. Their PCT reads a mere 4.17. Also read | ‘Cut 50 for overacting’: Bangladesh players troll Rizwan after his heated exchange with Litton Das – WATCH Australia (87.50) and New Zealand (77.78) are the table toppers. The defending WTC champions, South Africa, are third on the list with a PCT reading of 75, and Sri Lanka is fourth (66.67).

Bangladesh creates history by completing a maiden 2-0 home Test series sweep against Pakistan in Sylhet. The stunning victory leapfrogs the Tigers over India into 5th place on the updated WTC points table! Read the match breakdown and reaction from Shan Masood.

WTC Points Table: Bangladesh overtake India after historic home sweep vs Pakistan

England opener Phil Salt will reunite with his IPL team squad later this week in a massive boost for the Royal Challengers Bengaluru (RCB) as the playoffs near. Away with a finger injury for over a month, the former world no.1 T20I batter will be back donning the RCB jersey after his team earlier qualified for the last four. Salt injured his finger while attempting to save a boundary during the Delhi Capitals clash on April 18. He has remained absent from the IPL scene since, returning home for scans and recovery and spending quality time with his young family.&nbsp;In Salt’s absence, his compatriot Jacob Bethell opened with Virat Kohli, with RCB securing IPL playoff qualification in the meantime. The SunRisers Hyderabad (SRH) and Gujarat Titans (GT) have also joined RCB in the playoffs, with one spot remaining up for grabs.&nbsp;Also read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/pat-cummins-puts-australia-and-ipl-duties-in-focus-for-the-next-few-years-1779269079235">Pat Cummins puts Australia and IPL duties in focus ‘for the next few years’</a> &nbsp;Should RCB beat SRH in their final league game at home on Friday (May 22), they will finish the group stage with 18 points from 14 contested matches, sealing one of the top two spots. However, it remains unclear if Salt will link up with the RCB squad by then and also remain available for selection. Considering the defending IPL champions have already bagged the playoff berth, they will not risk playing Salt against SRH, keeping him fresh for the final-four stage. &nbsp;Meanwhile, unlike Salt’s performance and impact, his so-far replacement at the top, Bethell, failed to strike gold while opening. Tipped as England’s next superstar, the left-handed opener has scored just 96 runs in seven innings this season. Regardless of Salt’s availability for RCB’s last league match, Bethell’s position has come under scrutiny. Venkatesh Iyer’s match-winning 73 against the Punjab Kings in their previous game could push his case at the top as the playoffs approach. &nbsp;Iyer replaced regular captain Rajat Patidar, who suffered a blow to his head during the KKR game. However, with the stand-in captain Jitesh Sharma confirming Patidar’s availability for the SRH game, the RCB could potentially retain Iyer, but at the top with Kohli.&nbsp;

RCB received a massive IPL 2026 playoff boost as opener Phil Salt is set to rejoin the squad following a finger injury. Read the latest team updates on Rajat Patidar and RCB's lineup strategy ahead of their final league match against SRH

England opener Phil Salt will reunite with his IPL team squad later this week in a massive boost for the Royal Challengers Bengaluru (RCB) as the playoffs near. Away with a finger injury for over a month, the former world no.1 T20I batter will be back donning the RCB jersey after his team earlier qualified for the last four. Salt injured his finger while attempting to save a boundary during the Delhi Capitals clash on April 18. He has remained absent from the IPL scene since, returning home for scans and recovery and spending quality time with his young family. In Salt’s absence, his compatriot Jacob Bethell opened with Virat Kohli, with RCB securing IPL playoff qualification in the meantime. The SunRisers Hyderabad (SRH) and Gujarat Titans (GT) have also joined RCB in the playoffs, with one spot remaining up for grabs. Also read | Pat Cummins puts Australia and IPL duties in focus ‘for the next few years’ Should RCB beat SRH in their final league game at home on Friday (May 22), they will finish the group stage with 18 points from 14 contested matches, sealing one of the top two spots. However, it remains unclear if Salt will link up with the RCB squad by then and also remain available for selection. Considering the defending IPL champions have already bagged the playoff berth, they will not risk playing Salt against SRH, keeping him fresh for the final-four stage. Meanwhile, unlike Salt’s performance and impact, his so-far replacement at the top, Bethell, failed to strike gold while opening. Tipped as England’s next superstar, the left-handed opener has scored just 96 runs in seven innings this season. Regardless of Salt’s availability for RCB’s last league match, Bethell’s position has come under scrutiny. Venkatesh Iyer’s match-winning 73 against the Punjab Kings in their previous game could push his case at the top as the playoffs approach. Iyer replaced regular captain Rajat Patidar, who suffered a blow to his head during the KKR game. However, with the stand-in captain Jitesh Sharma confirming Patidar’s availability for the SRH game, the RCB could potentially retain Iyer, but at the top with Kohli.

RCB received a massive IPL 2026 playoff boost as opener Phil Salt is set to rejoin the squad following a finger injury. Read the latest team updates on Rajat Patidar and RCB's lineup strategy ahead of their final league match against SRH

Phil Salt to rejoin RCB later this week as IPL 2026 playoffs near

Australia Test and ODI skipper Pat Cummins has clarified that national team remains his priority. The statement comes amid the recent reports of Aussie players being not happy with national contracts payment structure and might choose franchise cricket over national duty. Cummins, who has a very successful record as Australia skipper which including Ashes win, ODI World Cup title and a World Test Championship (WTC) mace, however, acknowledged that he'll continue to play the IPL in which he leads SunRisers Hyderabad (SRH).<h2>Cummins clarifies his priorities</h2>Speaking to ESPNCricinfo at an event on Tuesday (May 19) in Delhi, Cummins talked about his priorities and said: "Nothing has changed for me, my priority is Australian cricket, No. 1, particularly Test cricket. As Test captain, I never want to miss any Test cricket and make myself available for as many Aussie games as I can. The IPL is good in that it normally fits in our holiday break, so that's the obvious one, but they are probably my main focuses and I don't see that's going to change at all for the next few years for me at least."Also Read - <a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/-what-about-when-he-learns-how-to-bat-lsg-coach-langer-in-awe-of-rr-s-15-year-old-vaibhav-sooryavanshi-1779262109031">'What about when he learns how to bat?' LSG coach in awe of RR's Sooryavanshi</a>Australia are expected to play 20 (may be 21) Tests in the one year period from August 2026 to August 2027 which is followed by ODI World Cup 2027 in which Australia enter as defending champions.<h2>What franchise cricket Cummins plays?</h2>Apart from Australia's domestic franchise tournament Big Bash League (BBL), Cummins takes part in IPL for SRH. He has also played in the USA's Major League Cricket (MLC) in the past for San Francisco Unicorns. He, however, hasn't played any T20I since 2024 T20 World Cup.Cummins also suffered a stress fracture in his back not so long ago which made him sit out of the last Ashes series as well as the 2026 T20 World Cup. The Aussie skipper, however, aims to participating in all of Australia's red-ball ball games in the next future as well as the ODI World Cup 2027.

Pat Cummins made the statement amid recent reports of Aussie players choosing franchise cricket over national duties because of disagreement over money.

Australia Test and ODI skipper Pat Cummins has clarified that national team remains his priority. The statement comes amid the recent reports of Aussie players being not happy with national contracts payment structure and might choose franchise cricket over national duty. Cummins, who has a very successful record as Australia skipper which including Ashes win, ODI World Cup title and a World Test Championship (WTC) mace, however, acknowledged that he'll continue to play the IPL in which he leads SunRisers Hyderabad (SRH). Cummins clarifies his priorities Speaking to ESPNCricinfo at an event on Tuesday (May 19) in Delhi, Cummins talked about his priorities and said: "Nothing has changed for me, my priority is Australian cricket, No. 1, particularly Test cricket. As Test captain, I never want to miss any Test cricket and make myself available for as many Aussie games as I can. The IPL is good in that it normally fits in our holiday break, so that's the obvious one, but they are probably my main focuses and I don't see that's going to change at all for the next few years for me at least." Also Read - 'What about when he learns how to bat?' LSG coach in awe of RR's Sooryavanshi Australia are expected to play 20 (may be 21) Tests in the one year period from August 2026 to August 2027 which is followed by ODI World Cup 2027 in which Australia enter as defending champions. What franchise cricket Cummins plays? Apart from Australia's domestic franchise tournament Big Bash League (BBL), Cummins takes part in IPL for SRH. He has also played in the USA's Major League Cricket (MLC) in the past for San Francisco Unicorns. He, however, hasn't played any T20I since 2024 T20 World Cup. Cummins also suffered a stress fracture in his back not so long ago which made him sit out of the last Ashes series as well as the 2026 T20 World Cup. The Aussie skipper, however, aims to participating in all of Australia's red-ball ball games in the next future as well as the ODI World Cup 2027.

Pat Cummins made the statement amid recent reports of Aussie players choosing franchise cricket over national duties because of disagreement over money.

Pat Cummins puts Australia and IPL duties in focus 'for the next few years'

Rajasthan Royals (RR) beat Lucknow Super Giants (LSG) in IPL 2026 match on Tuesday (May 19) and LSG coach Justin Langer is in awe of Vaibhav Sooryavanshi, who scored 38-ball 93 as RR chased down 221 in 19.1 overs. The win put RR a step closer to the IPL 2026 playoffs while LSG suffered ninth defeat of the season in 13 matches. Langer was particular impressed by 15-year-old's six-hitting ability and said it was a 'privilege to watch him bat'. Sooryavanshi currently holds the Orange Cap for most runs with 579 runs in 13 matches at an average of 44.53 and a strike rate of 236.22 - also the best in the season.Also Read - <a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/it-was-gruesome-there-was-nothing-left-in-tank-virat-kohli-on-leaving-test-captaincy-rift-with-sourav-ganguly-most-successful-india-test-captain-1779203786382">'There was nothing left in tank': Virat Kohli on leaving Test captaincy</a><h2>Langer in awe of Sooryavanshi</h2>Langer is a former Australian opener with 100 Tests to his name. As a coach, he was guided Australia to a T20 World Cup title and has won multiple Big Bash League (BBL) trophies with Perth Scorchers. Speaking on Sooryavanshi's batting, Langer said: "The scary thing is, the best way to learn how to make runs is to make runs, not by hitting some big sixes, and he makes runs over and over and over again. So the scary thing going forward, if the expressions on the face of Mitch Starc and Nortje and every bowler tell a story now, what about when he learns how to bat?"My gosh, he's so young. He's a brilliant, brilliant player and it's a real privilege to watch him bat actually."<h2>Sooryavanshi rewrites record books in IPL 2026</h2>Sooryavanshi's 579 runs in 13 matches are so far the most by a batter in IPL 2026 and so is his strike rate of 236.22. The 15-year-old has hit 53 sixes this season - the most by any batter and second most overall in an IPL 2026 behind Chris Gayle's 59. With one more match left at least, Sooryvanshi has a chance to surpass Gayle in sixes hit in a single IPL season.The Royals batter has hit three fifties and one hundred in IPL 2026 with his highest being 103 vs SRH during which he smacked 12 sixes - the most in an innings in IPL 2026.

Sooryavanshi smacked 38-ball 93 vs LSG in IPL 2026 on Tuesday (May 19) as RR chased down 221-run target in 19.1 overs to step closer to the playoffs.

Rajasthan Royals (RR) beat Lucknow Super Giants (LSG) in IPL 2026 match on Tuesday (May 19) and LSG coach Justin Langer is in awe of Vaibhav Sooryavanshi, who scored 38-ball 93 as RR chased down 221 in 19.1 overs. The win put RR a step closer to the IPL 2026 playoffs while LSG suffered ninth defeat of the season in 13 matches. Langer was particular impressed by 15-year-old's six-hitting ability and said it was a 'privilege to watch him bat'. Sooryavanshi currently holds the Orange Cap for most runs with 579 runs in 13 matches at an average of 44.53 and a strike rate of 236.22 - also the best in the season. Also Read - 'There was nothing left in tank': Virat Kohli on leaving Test captaincy Langer in awe of Sooryavanshi Langer is a former Australian opener with 100 Tests to his name. As a coach, he was guided Australia to a T20 World Cup title and has won multiple Big Bash League (BBL) trophies with Perth Scorchers. Speaking on Sooryavanshi's batting, Langer said: "The scary thing is, the best way to learn how to make runs is to make runs, not by hitting some big sixes, and he makes runs over and over and over again. So the scary thing going forward, if the expressions on the face of Mitch Starc and Nortje and every bowler tell a story now, what about when he learns how to bat? "My gosh, he's so young. He's a brilliant, brilliant player and it's a real privilege to watch him bat actually." Sooryavanshi rewrites record books in IPL 2026 Sooryavanshi's 579 runs in 13 matches are so far the most by a batter in IPL 2026 and so is his strike rate of 236.22. The 15-year-old has hit 53 sixes this season - the most by any batter and second most overall in an IPL 2026 behind Chris Gayle's 59. With one more match left at least, Sooryvanshi has a chance to surpass Gayle in sixes hit in a single IPL season. The Royals batter has hit three fifties and one hundred in IPL 2026 with his highest being 103 vs SRH during which he smacked 12 sixes - the most in an innings in IPL 2026.

Sooryavanshi smacked 38-ball 93 vs LSG in IPL 2026 on Tuesday (May 19) as RR chased down 221-run target in 19.1 overs to step closer to the playoffs.

'What about when he learns how to bat?' LSG coach Langer in awe of RR's 15-year-old Vaibhav Sooryavanshi

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