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Mumbai Indians have snapped their four-match losing streak to win their second game of the ongoing IPL 2026 on Monday (Apr 20). Led by Tilak Varma’s maiden IPL hundred and a brilliant four-wicket haul by uncapped quick Ashwani Kumar, Mumbai beat hosts Gujarat Titans by 99 runs to climb to the seventh spot on the points table. While veteran Suryakumar Yadav failed to click for the sixth game on the trot, scoring just 15 runs, Jasprit Bumrah finally picked his first wicket this season, dismissing GT opener Sai Sudharsan on a first-ball duck.

<blockquote class="twitter-tweet">A 𝙈𝙄𝘨𝘩𝘵𝘺 win in Ahmedabad!! 👊<a href="https://twitter.com/mipaltan?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@mipaltan</a> get back on winning ways with a massive 99-run win 🔥 MATCH HIGHLIGHTS ▶️ <a href="https://t.co/cf6MPBi5b2">https://t.co/cf6MPBi5b2</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/GTvMI?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#GTvMI</a> <a href="https://t.co/RmQQzh0WHQ">pic.twitter.com/RmQQzh0WHQ</a>&mdash; IndianPremierLeague (@IPL) <a href="https://twitter.com/IPL/status/2046285119166828604?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">April 20, 2026</a></blockquote> <script async src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script>

Gujarat captain Shubman Gill won the toss and sent Mumbai out to bat first. Without Rohit Sharma for the third straight game, MI debuted opener Danish Malewar, who departed quickly on just two. Two more wickets fell inside the Powerplay, with MI being reduced to 44 for three at one stage. Naman Dhir followed next on a well-made 45 before Tilak made the whole game about himself.&nbsp;Also read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/forget-team-india-t20i-captaincy-focus-on-selection-first-zaheer-khan-to-shreyas-iyer-pbks-ipl-2026-punjab-kings-captain-suryakumar-yadav-1776705031465">Forget T20I captaincy, focus on selection first: Zaheer’s advice to Shreyas Iyer</a> &nbsp;Having scored a mere 19 off his first 22 balls, the left-hander switched gears to smash the remaining 82 off the next 23 to complete his maiden IPL hundred. His unbeaten 101 off 45 balls propelled MI to 199 for five in the first innings.<h3>Ashwani’s show all the way!</h3>Bumrah broke his wicket drought, with a first-ball dismissal, before skipper Hardik Pandya accounted for IPL giant, Jos Buttler, in his first over. Gill was the next to follow inside the first six overs, with the left-arm pacer Ashwani picking the first of many. &nbsp;Gujarat lost four wickets in the middle overs, with everyone contributing barring the other debutant, Krish Bhagat. With their scorecard reading 85 for seven at one stage, the game was all but over for the hosts. Ashwani and Ghazanfar wrapped up the formalities as Mumbai dismissed Gujarat on 100, winning the game by 99 runs.

Mumbai Indians secure a massive 99-run win over Gujarat Titans in IPL 2026, driven by Tilak Varma’s explosive maiden century and Ashwani Kumar’s dominant four-wicket haul.

Mumbai Indians have snapped their four-match losing streak to win their second game of the ongoing IPL 2026 on Monday (Apr 20). Led by Tilak Varma’s maiden IPL hundred and a brilliant four-wicket haul by uncapped quick Ashwani Kumar, Mumbai beat hosts Gujarat Titans by 99 runs to climb to the seventh spot on the points table. While veteran Suryakumar Yadav failed to click for the sixth game on the trot, scoring just 15 runs, Jasprit Bumrah finally picked his first wicket this season, dismissing GT opener Sai Sudharsan on a first-ball duck.

Mumbai Indians secure a massive 99-run win over Gujarat Titans in IPL 2026, driven by Tilak Varma’s explosive maiden century and Ashwani Kumar’s dominant four-wicket haul.

IPL 2026: Ashwani’s four-fer, Tilak’s maiden IPL 100 power Mumbai to massive win over Gujarat

Former Indian seamer Zaheer Khan has provided a reality check to ODI batting mainstay and Punjab Kings captain Shreyas Iyer amid rumours of BCCI selectors zeroing in on him as Suryakumar Yadav’s successor as next T20I captain. Iyer has been in remarkable form in the ongoing IPL 2026, leading his team from the front. While his captaincy continues to make headlines, his batting form is what has grabbed everyone’s attention. At 31 and having all the attributes needed to lead an Indian Team, Iyer remains the talk of the town.&nbsp;Although he is Team India’s ODI vice-captain, Iyer hasn’t played a T20I since December 2023. Speaking on Cricbuzz, Zaheer said instead of eyeing the T20I captaincy, with the axe hovering over current skipper Suryakumar Yadav, Iyer must first focus on finding a spot in the T20 World Cup-winning team.&nbsp;Also read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/-our-biggest-victory-ricky-ponting-hails-pbks-dominant-win-over-lsg-1776689464010">'Our biggest victory': Ricky Ponting hails PBKS’ dominant win over LSG</a> &nbsp;“First, being part of the T20 setup will be on his mind. Captaincy, I am not sure if he is thinking about that right now. He can be a contender in due course because he has been captaining franchises for a while now and has been successful. So, he clearly has that mindset. &nbsp;“When you are looking at the Indian T20 setup, I think he must be thinking first and foremost of making an impact with his performances as just a player to secure a spot. Once you are in the squad, then the rest of the things are up to how the team management is looking at things,” Zaheer said.<h3>Iyer’s rise as a T20 captain</h3>After leading Kolkata Knight Riders (KKR) to their third IPL title in 2024, Shreyas Iyer moved to Punjab Kings. Rejoining head coach Ricky Ponting (the two were together at Delhi Capitals earlier) at PBKS, Iyer did wonders in his first season as the Punjab captain, leading the side to its second IPL final and the first in 11 years. &nbsp;Although he failed to get his team past the winning line (with the RCB clinching its maiden IPL title), Iyer’s leadership has put Punjab on the pedestal in the ongoing edition. Being the only unbeaten team thus far, Punjab has won five of its six contested matches, sitting at the top of the table with 11 points. &nbsp;While he smashed a whopping 604 runs in 17 matches in the previous edition, Iyer has thus far collected 208 runs in five outings, including three fifties at a strike rate of 182.45.&nbsp;

Zaheer Khan tells Shreyas Iyer to prioritize securing his spot in the Indian T20I squad before eyeing the captaincy. Read the full analysis here.

Former Indian seamer Zaheer Khan has provided a reality check to ODI batting mainstay and Punjab Kings captain Shreyas Iyer amid rumours of BCCI selectors zeroing in on him as Suryakumar Yadav’s successor as next T20I captain. Iyer has been in remarkable form in the ongoing IPL 2026, leading his team from the front. While his captaincy continues to make headlines, his batting form is what has grabbed everyone’s attention. At 31 and having all the attributes needed to lead an Indian Team, Iyer remains the talk of the town. Although he is Team India’s ODI vice-captain, Iyer hasn’t played a T20I since December 2023. Speaking on Cricbuzz, Zaheer said instead of eyeing the T20I captaincy, with the axe hovering over current skipper Suryakumar Yadav, Iyer must first focus on finding a spot in the T20 World Cup-winning team. Also read | 'Our biggest victory': Ricky Ponting hails PBKS’ dominant win over LSG “First, being part of the T20 setup will be on his mind. Captaincy, I am not sure if he is thinking about that right now. He can be a contender in due course because he has been captaining franchises for a while now and has been successful. So, he clearly has that mindset. “When you are looking at the Indian T20 setup, I think he must be thinking first and foremost of making an impact with his performances as just a player to secure a spot. Once you are in the squad, then the rest of the things are up to how the team management is looking at things,” Zaheer said. Iyer’s rise as a T20 captain After leading Kolkata Knight Riders (KKR) to their third IPL title in 2024, Shreyas Iyer moved to Punjab Kings. Rejoining head coach Ricky Ponting (the two were together at Delhi Capitals earlier) at PBKS, Iyer did wonders in his first season as the Punjab captain, leading the side to its second IPL final and the first in 11 years. Although he failed to get his team past the winning line (with the RCB clinching its maiden IPL title), Iyer’s leadership has put Punjab on the pedestal in the ongoing edition. Being the only unbeaten team thus far, Punjab has won five of its six contested matches, sitting at the top of the table with 11 points. While he smashed a whopping 604 runs in 17 matches in the previous edition, Iyer has thus far collected 208 runs in five outings, including three fifties at a strike rate of 182.45.

Zaheer Khan tells Shreyas Iyer to prioritize securing his spot in the Indian T20I squad before eyeing the captaincy. Read the full analysis here.

Forget T20I captaincy, focus on selection first: Zaheer’s advice to Shreyas Iyer

Shapoor Zadran, the former Afghanistan seamer, is battling a rare life-threatening disease called Hemophagocytic Lymphohistiocytosis (HLH) in an intensive care unit in a Delhi hospital, where he moved to in January this year. Following a proud international career, where he used to open the bowling, Zadran fights stage four HLH, which usually occurs in children; it can also affect adults, who are prone to infection or have had cancer.&nbsp;In this case, the patient suffers hyperinflammation, triggered by an overactive immune system, leading to damage to the body’s tissues, including the bone marrow, liver, spleen and lymph nodes. Shapoor, who represented Afghanistan in 80 games, first complained of the symptoms last October, after which the doctors in Afghanistan suggested that he move to India for further treatment, his brother Ghamai Zadran confirmed. &nbsp;He also revealed that Rashid Khan and Afghanistan Cricket Board (ACB) chairman Mirwais Ashraf’s contacts helped Shapoor receive his India visa quickly. While Ashraf spoke with former BCCI secretary and current ICC president Jay Shah, Rashid reached out to the top brass in the franchise circuit. Shapoor landed in India on January 18 and has been admitted since. &nbsp;Shapoor came along with his wife and former Afghanistan teammate Asghar Afghan, while Ghamai, who lives in Canada, joined his brother in India on January 26.&nbsp;Also read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/ipl-2026-josh-inglis-to-join-lsg-squad-ahead-of-may-4-game-vs-mumbai-indians-anrich-nortje-leaves-camp-1776694032908">IPL 2026: Josh Inglis to join LSG squad ahead of May 4 game vs Mumbai; Nortje leaves camp</a> &nbsp;"It was a very serious infection," Ghamai said in a chat with ESPNcricinfo. "His whole body was full of the infection, including TB (tuberculosis). It also spread to his brain, which was revealed after an MRI and CT scan. &nbsp;"The doctor said we could drop in for the check-ups frequently. He [Shapoor] was feeling good for about 20 days before he got the infection again. Then we admitted him to the hospital [again],” he continued. &nbsp;His brother further revealed that after Shapoor got discharged after 20 days, he complained of stomach pain. Ghamai took him to the hospital only to realise things had turned worse.&nbsp; &nbsp;"He started getting a fever, and then he tested positive for dengue. His immunity was very weak as the red blood cell count depleted severely,” he revealed.&nbsp; &nbsp;Fast forward to March 26, Shapoor underwent a bone-marrow test, which revealed he was suffering from Stage Four HLH. &nbsp;Meanwhile, as things stand, Shapoor can barely speak and usually sleeps a lot. Ghamai revealed his brother has lost nearly 14 kilograms.&nbsp;&nbsp;"He doesn't have much vitality,” his brother revealed.

Former Afghanistan seamer Shapoor Zadran is battling Stage 4 HLH in a Delhi hospital. Get the latest update on his critical health condition and community support.

Shapoor Zadran, the former Afghanistan seamer, is battling a rare life-threatening disease called Hemophagocytic Lymphohistiocytosis (HLH) in an intensive care unit in a Delhi hospital, where he moved to in January this year. Following a proud international career, where he used to open the bowling, Zadran fights stage four HLH, which usually occurs in children; it can also affect adults, who are prone to infection or have had cancer. In this case, the patient suffers hyperinflammation, triggered by an overactive immune system, leading to damage to the body’s tissues, including the bone marrow, liver, spleen and lymph nodes. Shapoor, who represented Afghanistan in 80 games, first complained of the symptoms last October, after which the doctors in Afghanistan suggested that he move to India for further treatment, his brother Ghamai Zadran confirmed. He also revealed that Rashid Khan and Afghanistan Cricket Board (ACB) chairman Mirwais Ashraf’s contacts helped Shapoor receive his India visa quickly. While Ashraf spoke with former BCCI secretary and current ICC president Jay Shah, Rashid reached out to the top brass in the franchise circuit. Shapoor landed in India on January 18 and has been admitted since. Shapoor came along with his wife and former Afghanistan teammate Asghar Afghan, while Ghamai, who lives in Canada, joined his brother in India on January 26. Also read | IPL 2026: Josh Inglis to join LSG squad ahead of May 4 game vs Mumbai; Nortje leaves camp "It was a very serious infection," Ghamai said in a chat with ESPNcricinfo. "His whole body was full of the infection, including TB (tuberculosis). It also spread to his brain, which was revealed after an MRI and CT scan. "The doctor said we could drop in for the check-ups frequently. He [Shapoor] was feeling good for about 20 days before he got the infection again. Then we admitted him to the hospital [again],” he continued. His brother further revealed that after Shapoor got discharged after 20 days, he complained of stomach pain. Ghamai took him to the hospital only to realise things had turned worse. "He started getting a fever, and then he tested positive for dengue. His immunity was very weak as the red blood cell count depleted severely,” he revealed. Fast forward to March 26, Shapoor underwent a bone-marrow test, which revealed he was suffering from Stage Four HLH. Meanwhile, as things stand, Shapoor can barely speak and usually sleeps a lot. Ghamai revealed his brother has lost nearly 14 kilograms. "He doesn't have much vitality,” his brother revealed.

Former Afghanistan seamer Shapoor Zadran is battling Stage 4 HLH in a Delhi hospital. Get the latest update on his critical health condition and community support.

Shapoor Zadran admitted to ICU in Delhi Hospital as former Afghan pacer fights rare disease

Sri Lanka’s T20I captain Dasun Shanaka has been handed a one-year ban from the Pakistan Super League by the Pakistan Cricket Board after pulling out of his deal with Lahore Qalandars earlier this year. The decision was announced on Monday (Apr 20) after Shanaka opted to join Rajasthan Royals as a replacement for Sam Curran in the ongoing Indian Premier League 2026 season.&nbsp;&nbsp;The 34-year-old, who has previously represented Gujarat Titans in the IPL, was found to have breached his contractual obligations with both the league and the franchise. Lahore Qalandars had secured his services for PKR 75 lakh in the PSL 2026 auction. Following a formal review, the PCB concluded that Shanaka’s unilateral withdrawal did not fall within the acceptable terms outlined in the player agreement.&nbsp;Also Read - <a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/-our-biggest-victory-ricky-ponting-hails-pbks-dominant-win-over-lsg-1776689464010">'Our biggest victory': Ricky Ponting hails PBKS’ dominant win over LSG</a>&nbsp;“The review concluded that the player’s unilateral withdrawal from the tournament constituted a clear breach of both the Player Registration terms and the Tripartite Agreement. The findings indicated that the withdrawal was made on grounds not recognised within the existing contractual framework," a PCB review stated on Monday.&nbsp;“While the Board has taken note of the player’s expressions of regret and his stated passion for playing in Pakistan during the formal hearing, the severity of the contractual violations necessitates regulatory action to maintain the integrity and exclusivity of the league," it added.&nbsp;Also Read - <a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/pressure-or-confidence-world-champion-wrestler-sujeet-kalkal-on-becoming-no-1-1776676909385">Pressure or confidence? World champion wrestler Sujeet Kalkal on becoming No. 1</a>&nbsp;Shanaka is the second overseas player to face such action this year. Earlier, Blessing Muzarabani was handed a two-year suspension after terminating his PSL contract to join Kolkata Knight Riders as a replacement for Mustafizur Rahman. The Zimbabwe pacer made his IPL debut against Mumbai Indians at the Wankhede Stadium on Mar 29.&nbsp;In a similar case last year, Corbin Bosch withdrew from his PSL contract with Peshawar Zalmi to join Mumbai Indians, earning a one-year suspension from the PCB.

Dasun Shanaka was handed a one-year ban after a review found him in breach of his contract with the Pakistan Super League and Lahore Qalandars, who had signed him for PKR 75 lakh in the 2026 auction.

Sri Lanka’s T20I captain Dasun Shanaka has been handed a one-year ban from the Pakistan Super League by the Pakistan Cricket Board after pulling out of his deal with Lahore Qalandars earlier this year. The decision was announced on Monday (Apr 20) after Shanaka opted to join Rajasthan Royals as a replacement for Sam Curran in the ongoing Indian Premier League 2026 season. The 34-year-old, who has previously represented Gujarat Titans in the IPL, was found to have breached his contractual obligations with both the league and the franchise. Lahore Qalandars had secured his services for PKR 75 lakh in the PSL 2026 auction. Following a formal review, the PCB concluded that Shanaka’s unilateral withdrawal did not fall within the acceptable terms outlined in the player agreement. Also Read - 'Our biggest victory': Ricky Ponting hails PBKS’ dominant win over LSG “The review concluded that the player’s unilateral withdrawal from the tournament constituted a clear breach of both the Player Registration terms and the Tripartite Agreement. The findings indicated that the withdrawal was made on grounds not recognised within the existing contractual framework," a PCB review stated on Monday. “While the Board has taken note of the player’s expressions of regret and his stated passion for playing in Pakistan during the formal hearing, the severity of the contractual violations necessitates regulatory action to maintain the integrity and exclusivity of the league," it added. Also Read - Pressure or confidence? World champion wrestler Sujeet Kalkal on becoming No. 1 Shanaka is the second overseas player to face such action this year. Earlier, Blessing Muzarabani was handed a two-year suspension after terminating his PSL contract to join Kolkata Knight Riders as a replacement for Mustafizur Rahman. The Zimbabwe pacer made his IPL debut against Mumbai Indians at the Wankhede Stadium on Mar 29. In a similar case last year, Corbin Bosch withdrew from his PSL contract with Peshawar Zalmi to join Mumbai Indians, earning a one-year suspension from the PCB.

Dasun Shanaka was handed a one-year ban after a review found him in breach of his contract with the Pakistan Super League and Lahore Qalandars, who had signed him for PKR 75 lakh in the 2026 auction.

PCB hands Dasun Shanaka one-year ban over PSL exit for IPL 2026

Australian gloveman Josh Inglis will join the Lucknow Super Giants (LSG) squad ahead of their marquee May 4 match against the Mumbai Indians (MI) in IPL 2026. Inglis got married on April 18 and was thus away for the first half of the season. He will spend another week or 10 days away from the game before linking up with his new IPL team for the remainder of IPL 2026. On the other hand, LSG overseas seamer Anrich Nortje has left the camp, with the reason for his departure unconfirmed.&nbsp;Inglis played for Punjab Kings in the previous edition, hitting 278 runs at a strike rate of just over 162, helping his team reach their second IPL final, where they eventually lost to the Royal Challengers Bengaluru (RCB). Punjab surprisingly released him ahead of this season, with LSG splurging INR 8.6 crore to bag his services at the December auction.&nbsp;Also read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/-our-biggest-victory-ricky-ponting-hails-pbks-dominant-win-over-lsg-1776689464010">'Our biggest victory': Ricky Ponting hails PBKS’ dominant win over LSG</a> &nbsp;Meanwhile, should he make himself available for the May 4 game, the right-hander shall play six league matches this year, and beyond that, depending on LSG’s playoff qualification scenario. &nbsp;As things stand, LSG has four foreign players available for selection, including the opening pair of Mitchell Marsh and Aiden Markram, and underfiring West Indian Nicholas Pooran, who has just managed 51 runs in six innings at a horrible strike rate of 80. LSG also has a spin-bowling all-rounder, George Linde, who has played two of their last three games. Inglis’ selection will boost LSG’s batting attack, as they would now have someone to replace Pooran in the middle overs. &nbsp;On the other hand, Nortje’s absence has left LSG with no overseas quick for the remainder of the season, with Indian internationals comprising the bowling attack. &nbsp;Currently, LSG sits in the bottom half of the points table with just two wins from six contested matches. They will next host the Rajasthan Royals on Wednesday (Apr 22).&nbsp;

Lucknow Super Giants are set for a boost as Josh Inglis joins the squad for the May 4 clash against MI, while pacer Anrich Nortje exits the camp. Latest IPL 2026 updates.

Australian gloveman Josh Inglis will join the Lucknow Super Giants (LSG) squad ahead of their marquee May 4 match against the Mumbai Indians (MI) in IPL 2026. Inglis got married on April 18 and was thus away for the first half of the season. He will spend another week or 10 days away from the game before linking up with his new IPL team for the remainder of IPL 2026. On the other hand, LSG overseas seamer Anrich Nortje has left the camp, with the reason for his departure unconfirmed. Inglis played for Punjab Kings in the previous edition, hitting 278 runs at a strike rate of just over 162, helping his team reach their second IPL final, where they eventually lost to the Royal Challengers Bengaluru (RCB). Punjab surprisingly released him ahead of this season, with LSG splurging INR 8.6 crore to bag his services at the December auction. Also read | 'Our biggest victory': Ricky Ponting hails PBKS’ dominant win over LSG Meanwhile, should he make himself available for the May 4 game, the right-hander shall play six league matches this year, and beyond that, depending on LSG’s playoff qualification scenario. As things stand, LSG has four foreign players available for selection, including the opening pair of Mitchell Marsh and Aiden Markram, and underfiring West Indian Nicholas Pooran, who has just managed 51 runs in six innings at a horrible strike rate of 80. LSG also has a spin-bowling all-rounder, George Linde, who has played two of their last three games. Inglis’ selection will boost LSG’s batting attack, as they would now have someone to replace Pooran in the middle overs. On the other hand, Nortje’s absence has left LSG with no overseas quick for the remainder of the season, with Indian internationals comprising the bowling attack. Currently, LSG sits in the bottom half of the points table with just two wins from six contested matches. They will next host the Rajasthan Royals on Wednesday (Apr 22).

Lucknow Super Giants are set for a boost as Josh Inglis joins the squad for the May 4 clash against MI, while pacer Anrich Nortje exits the camp. Latest IPL 2026 updates.

IPL 2026: Josh Inglis to join LSG squad ahead of May 4 game vs Mumbai; Nortje leaves camp

Punjab Kings head coach Ricky Ponting described his side’s dominant 54-run win over Lucknow Super Giants in the Indian Premier League 2026 season on Sunday as their biggest win, according to a team release. The win also marked a historic achievement, as Punjab becomes the first side in the tournament’s 19-year history to stay unbeaten across their first six matches of a season. Speaking after the game on Dressing Room Diaries, Ponting said it was “probably the biggest victory” the team has recorded so far, underlining how their performances have set a high standard.&nbsp;&nbsp;He emphasised that the result reflected the strong “team-first” mindset within the squad. Addressing the players in the dressing room, Ponting noted that their consistency has turned them into a difficult side to overcome.&nbsp;&nbsp;"Knowing that if we do things somewhere near our best, you're going to be a bloody hard team to beat. Priyansh just decided to go ahead and play his own way, regardless of what happened at the other end. One of the values and standards we have as a group--and the number one on the top of our list--is team first," Ponting said.&nbsp;The commanding victory was built on a massive total of 254/7, the highest score of the 2026 season, after Punjab were put in to bat for the first time. The innings was anchored by a record 182-run stand for the second wicket between Priyansh Arya and Cooper Connolly. Arya led the charge with a blistering 93 off 37 balls, including nine sixes, while Connolly provided stability with a brilliant 87 from 46 deliveries.&nbsp;Speaking after the game, Priyansh Arya highlighted the simplicity of his approach, saying, "I was thinking that I will respect a good ball and take a single or double. And whatever is on my radar, I'll go for boundaries. That's what I was looking for."&nbsp;Also Read - <a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/who-was-juha-miettinen-66-year-old-driver-dies-in-seven-car-crash-in-nurgurging-race-featuring-max-verstappen-1776676136869">66-year-old driver dies in car crash in Nurgurging race featuring Verstappen</a> Cooper Connolly, who provided steady support throughout the onslaught, admitted to being a spectator at times. "I was at the other end just in awe a little bit because I couldn't get off strike, but yeah, I was just enjoying watching Priyansh bat. We all have discussions about what works for each other, and we take little things out of each other's books to get better as a group," Cooper noted. Captain Shreyas Iyer, who has led the side to five wins and one no-result, expressed his pride in the young duo's composure and even revealed a light-hearted incentive within the squad. "Absolutely brilliant batting. Some of the shots were just incredible. It takes a lot of courage and concentration to play shots like those. I was talking to Cooper and Priyansh, and we were challenging them to see who could hit the most sixes this season. The prize? They'll get my bat! I hope it brings some joy and motivation. They are constantly putting in the effort, and we just tell them to go out there and express themselves," Iyer said.&nbsp;&nbsp;With this win, Punjab Kings have now secured five victories in six matches (one no result), sitting comfortably at the summit of the IPL 2026 standings. The team will look to carry this form into their next fixture against the Delhi Capitals in Delhi on Apr 25, 2026.&nbsp;&nbsp;With inputs from agencies

At the Maharaja Yadavindra Singh International Cricket Stadium in Mullanpur, Punjab Kings defeated Lucknow Super Giants by 54 runs to register their fifth win of the season. The victory keeps them unbeaten in the IPL 2026 as they continue their march towards the playoffs.

Punjab Kings head coach Ricky Ponting described his side’s dominant 54-run win over Lucknow Super Giants in the Indian Premier League 2026 season on Sunday as their biggest win, according to a team release. The win also marked a historic achievement, as Punjab becomes the first side in the tournament’s 19-year history to stay unbeaten across their first six matches of a season. Speaking after the game on Dressing Room Diaries, Ponting said it was “probably the biggest victory” the team has recorded so far, underlining how their performances have set a high standard. He emphasised that the result reflected the strong “team-first” mindset within the squad. Addressing the players in the dressing room, Ponting noted that their consistency has turned them into a difficult side to overcome. "Knowing that if we do things somewhere near our best, you're going to be a bloody hard team to beat. Priyansh just decided to go ahead and play his own way, regardless of what happened at the other end. One of the values and standards we have as a group--and the number one on the top of our list--is team first," Ponting said. The commanding victory was built on a massive total of 254/7, the highest score of the 2026 season, after Punjab were put in to bat for the first time. The innings was anchored by a record 182-run stand for the second wicket between Priyansh Arya and Cooper Connolly. Arya led the charge with a blistering 93 off 37 balls, including nine sixes, while Connolly provided stability with a brilliant 87 from 46 deliveries. Speaking after the game, Priyansh Arya highlighted the simplicity of his approach, saying, "I was thinking that I will respect a good ball and take a single or double. And whatever is on my radar, I'll go for boundaries. That's what I was looking for." Also Read - 66-year-old driver dies in car crash in Nurgurging race featuring Verstappen Cooper Connolly, who provided steady support throughout the onslaught, admitted to being a spectator at times. "I was at the other end just in awe a little bit because I couldn't get off strike, but yeah, I was just enjoying watching Priyansh bat. We all have discussions about what works for each other, and we take little things out of each other's books to get better as a group," Cooper noted. Captain Shreyas Iyer, who has led the side to five wins and one no-result, expressed his pride in the young duo's composure and even revealed a light-hearted incentive within the squad. "Absolutely brilliant batting. Some of the shots were just incredible. It takes a lot of courage and concentration to play shots like those. I was talking to Cooper and Priyansh, and we were challenging them to see who could hit the most sixes this season. The prize? They'll get my bat! I hope it brings some joy and motivation. They are constantly putting in the effort, and we just tell them to go out there and express themselves," Iyer said. With this win, Punjab Kings have now secured five victories in six matches (one no result), sitting comfortably at the summit of the IPL 2026 standings. The team will look to carry this form into their next fixture against the Delhi Capitals in Delhi on Apr 25, 2026. With inputs from agencies

At the Maharaja Yadavindra Singh International Cricket Stadium in Mullanpur, Punjab Kings defeated Lucknow Super Giants by 54 runs to register their fifth win of the season. The victory keeps them unbeaten in the IPL 2026 as they continue their march towards the playoffs.

'Our biggest victory': Ricky Ponting hails PBKS’ dominant win over LSG

Sunrisers Hyderabad will host Delhi Capitals in match 31 of the Indian Premier League 2026 at the Rajiv Gandhi International Stadium on Tuesday (Apr 21). SRH have played six matches so far, winning three and losing three, while DC have also played six, with three wins and three losses. Both teams will try to maintain their winning momentum with a win. Ahead of the clash, here’s everything you need to know, including live streaming details, head-to-head stats and other key information.<h2>What is the head-to-head record for the SRH vs DC clash in IPL history</h2>Sunrisers Hyderabad and Delhi Capitals have clashed 26 times in the Indian Premier League, with SRH winning 13 matches and DC claiming victory in 12 encounters.&nbsp;Also Read - <a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/pressure-or-confidence-world-champion-wrestler-sujeet-kalkal-on-becoming-no-1-1776676909385">Pressure or confidence? World champion wrestler Sujeet Kalkal on becoming No. 1</a><h2>What is the venue for the SRH vs DC IPL 2026 Match No.31?</h2>The Rajiv Gandhi International Stadium in Hyderabad will be the venue for the SRH vs DC IPL 2026 Match No.31.<h2>When will the SRH vs LSG IPL 2026 Match No.10?</h2>The SRH vs DC IPL 2026 Match No.31 will start at 7:30 p.m. IST, with the toss taking place at 7:00 p.m. IST.&nbsp;Also Read - <a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/who-was-juha-miettinen-66-year-old-driver-dies-in-seven-car-crash-in-nurgurging-race-featuring-max-verstappen-1776676136869">66-year-old driver dies in car crash in Nurgurging race featuring Verstappen</a><h2>Which channel will broadcast the SRH vs DC IPL 2026 Match No.31?</h2>The Star Sports Network will broadcast the SRH vs DC IPL 2026 Match No.31 in India.<h2>Which platform will live-stream the SRH vs DC IPL 2026 Match No.31?</h2>The Jio+Hotstar will live-stream the SRH vs DC IPL 2026 Match No.31 in India.<h2>Squads</h2>Sunrisers Hyderabad: Ishan Kishan, Heinrich Klaasen, Smaran Ravichandran, Aniket Verma, Abhishek Sharma, Harsh Dubey, Kamindu Mendis, Nitish Kumar Reddy, Pat Cummins (c), Jaydev Unadkat, Harshal Patel, Zeeshan Ansari, Salil Arora, Liam Livingstone, Shivam Mavi, Jack Edwards, Travis Head, Sakib Hussain and Brydon Carse&nbsp;Delhi Capitals: KL Rahul (wk), Prithvi Shaw, Abishek Porel, Axar Patel (c), Tristan Stubbs, Ashutosh Sharma, David Miller, Vipraj Nigam, Dushmantha Chameera, Kyle Jamieson, T. Natarajan, Lungi Ngidi, Mukesh Kumar, Kuldeep Yadav, Nitish Rana, Karun Nair, Pathum Nissanka, Sahil Parakh, Sameer Rizvi, Madhav Tiwari, Auqib Nabi Dar, Tripurana Vijay and Ajay Jadav Mandal&nbsp;

Ahead of the key IPL 2026 clash between Sunrisers Hyderabad and Delhi Capitals, here’s everything you need to know, including live streaming, head-to-head stats and other important details.

Sunrisers Hyderabad will host Delhi Capitals in match 31 of the Indian Premier League 2026 at the Rajiv Gandhi International Stadium on Tuesday (Apr 21). SRH have played six matches so far, winning three and losing three, while DC have also played six, with three wins and three losses. Both teams will try to maintain their winning momentum with a win. 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 SRH vs DC clash in IPL history Sunrisers Hyderabad and Delhi Capitals have clashed 26 times in the Indian Premier League, with SRH winning 13 matches and DC claiming victory in 12 encounters. Also Read - Pressure or confidence? World champion wrestler Sujeet Kalkal on becoming No. 1 What is the venue for the SRH vs DC IPL 2026 Match No.31? The Rajiv Gandhi International Stadium in Hyderabad will be the venue for the SRH vs DC IPL 2026 Match No.31. When will the SRH vs LSG IPL 2026 Match No.10? The SRH vs DC IPL 2026 Match No.31 will start at 7:30 p.m. IST, with the toss taking place at 7:00 p.m. IST. Also Read - 66-year-old driver dies in car crash in Nurgurging race featuring Verstappen Which channel will broadcast the SRH vs DC IPL 2026 Match No.31? The Star Sports Network will broadcast the SRH vs DC IPL 2026 Match No.31 in India. Which platform will live-stream the SRH vs DC IPL 2026 Match No.31? The Jio+Hotstar will live-stream the SRH vs DC IPL 2026 Match No.31 in India. Squads Sunrisers Hyderabad: Ishan Kishan, Heinrich Klaasen, Smaran Ravichandran, Aniket Verma, Abhishek Sharma, Harsh Dubey, Kamindu Mendis, Nitish Kumar Reddy, Pat Cummins (c), Jaydev Unadkat, Harshal Patel, Zeeshan Ansari, Salil Arora, Liam Livingstone, Shivam Mavi, Jack Edwards, Travis Head, Sakib Hussain and Brydon Carse Delhi Capitals: KL Rahul (wk), Prithvi Shaw, Abishek Porel, Axar Patel (c), Tristan Stubbs, Ashutosh Sharma, David Miller, Vipraj Nigam, Dushmantha Chameera, Kyle Jamieson, T. Natarajan, Lungi Ngidi, Mukesh Kumar, Kuldeep Yadav, Nitish Rana, Karun Nair, Pathum Nissanka, Sahil Parakh, Sameer Rizvi, Madhav Tiwari, Auqib Nabi Dar, Tripurana Vijay and Ajay Jadav Mandal

Ahead of the key IPL 2026 clash between Sunrisers Hyderabad and Delhi Capitals, 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 SRH vs DC match no 31 timing, squad, H2H & more

Lucknow Super Giants captain Rishabh Pant admitted it is difficult to single out one specific reason for the loss to Punjab Kings in the ongoing Indian Premier League 2026. He noted that while the bowling unit has done its job, there are still areas that need improvement. Pant also said the batting showed promising intent in line with the team’s strategy and emphasised the need to take positives from the outing. He added that the squad is committed to improving together and aims to deliver more consistent performances in the upcoming matches&nbsp;Strong batting performances from Priyansh Arya and Cooper Connolly, combined with disciplined bowling in the death overs, powered Punjab Kings to a 54-run victory over Lucknow Super Giants in Mullanpur on Sunday (Apr 19).&nbsp;"See, it's difficult to point out one area because bowlers have been putting up a nice show, but at the same time, there are areas of concern. But there were some positives for us also to work around. There was a glimpse of batting, which we talked about. Definitely look to take some positives, but at the same time, as a team, we're going to do well every match," Pant said after the match. &nbsp;LSG, in a massive chase of 255, took a bold decision to send young Ayush Badoni to open the innings in place of Aiden Markram. Pant explained that promoting Badoni to open was a pre-planned decision aimed at bringing more freedom and intent at the top of the order.&nbsp;Also Read - <a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/ipl-2026-rohit-sharma-trains-ahead-of-gt-clash-will-he-make-the-xi-1776670148061">IPL 2026: Rohit Sharma trains ahead of GT clash, will he make the XI?</a> He said the move wasn't a last-minute call, but part of a broader strategy to allow the top order to play more freely while the middle order contributes effectively. "I think the idea was to just go out there and play freely. It wasn't taken just today. It was pre-decided that he's going to open. It was just something we kept inside. We wanted some freedom on the top order, and just the middle order wanted to chip in," he added. PBKS are at the top of the table, unbeaten, with five wins and a no result, giving them 11 points. LSG is at the eighth spot in the points table with two wins and four losses.&nbsp;Also Check - <a href="https://www.wionews.com/photos/wwe-wrestlemania-42-night-2-full-results-roman-reigns-wins-world-heavyweight-title-brock-lesnar-retires-trick-williams-rhea-ripley-las-vegas-1776675008305">WWE WrestleMania 42 Night 2 Full Results: Roman Reigns wins world heavyweight title, Brock Lesnar retires</a> PBKS raced to 254/7, with knocks from Priyansh (93 in 37 balls, with four boundaries and nine sixes) and Connolly (87 in 46 balls, with eight fours and seven sixes) taking them to such a big score. LSG had their moments, with a 61-run opening stand between Ayush Badoni (35 in 21 balls, with five fours and a six) and Mitchell Marsh (40 in 28 balls, with three fours and two sixes) and a counter-attack from Rishabh Pant (43 in 23 balls, with a four and four sixes), but it was not enough.&nbsp;With inputs from agencies

Lucknow Super Giants captain Rishabh Pant admitted it is difficult to single out one specific reason for the loss to Punjab Kings in the ongoing Indian Premier League 2026. He noted that while the bowling unit has done its job, there are still areas that need improvement. Pant also said the batting showed promising intent in line with the team’s strategy and emphasised the need to take positives from the outing. He added that the squad is committed to improving together and aims to deliver more consistent performances in the upcoming matches Strong batting performances from Priyansh Arya and Cooper Connolly, combined with disciplined bowling in the death overs, powered Punjab Kings to a 54-run victory over Lucknow Super Giants in Mullanpur on Sunday (Apr 19). "See, it's difficult to point out one area because bowlers have been putting up a nice show, but at the same time, there are areas of concern. But there were some positives for us also to work around. There was a glimpse of batting, which we talked about. Definitely look to take some positives, but at the same time, as a team, we're going to do well every match," Pant said after the match. LSG, in a massive chase of 255, took a bold decision to send young Ayush Badoni to open the innings in place of Aiden Markram. Pant explained that promoting Badoni to open was a pre-planned decision aimed at bringing more freedom and intent at the top of the order. Also Read - IPL 2026: Rohit Sharma trains ahead of GT clash, will he make the XI? He said the move wasn't a last-minute call, but part of a broader strategy to allow the top order to play more freely while the middle order contributes effectively. "I think the idea was to just go out there and play freely. It wasn't taken just today. It was pre-decided that he's going to open. It was just something we kept inside. We wanted some freedom on the top order, and just the middle order wanted to chip in," he added. PBKS are at the top of the table, unbeaten, with five wins and a no result, giving them 11 points. LSG is at the eighth spot in the points table with two wins and four losses. Also Check - WWE WrestleMania 42 Night 2 Full Results: Roman Reigns wins world heavyweight title, Brock Lesnar retires PBKS raced to 254/7, with knocks from Priyansh (93 in 37 balls, with four boundaries and nine sixes) and Connolly (87 in 46 balls, with eight fours and seven sixes) taking them to such a big score. LSG had their moments, with a 61-run opening stand between Ayush Badoni (35 in 21 balls, with five fours and a six) and Mitchell Marsh (40 in 28 balls, with three fours and two sixes) and a counter-attack from Rishabh Pant (43 in 23 balls, with a four and four sixes), but it was not enough. With inputs from agencies

'Difficult to pinpoint one area': Rishabh Pant on LSG defeat to Punjab Kings

Mumbai Indians have been handed a significant boost ahead of their IPL 2026 encounter with Gujarat Titans, as Rohit Sharma has resumed training following a hamstring issue. The former skipper picked up the injury during MI’s clash against Royal Challengers Bengaluru and later underwent scans to assess the problem. Though he initially attempted to play through it, he was sidelined for the match against Punjab Kings, with captain Hardik Pandya earlier indicating that the opener might miss more than one match. Encouragingly for MI, his recovery has progressed well.&nbsp;Before the Ahmedabad fixture, Rohit was back in the nets and appeared at ease, playing his usual range of shots fluently. His presence has boosted morale within the squad, even as the team management remains cautious about taking any risks with his fitness.&nbsp;Also Read - <a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/ipl-2026-updated-points-table-punjab-kings-continue-dominance-at-top-kkr-ninth-after-first-win-1776668957620">IPL 2026 updated points table: Punjab Kings continue dominance at top, KKR ninth after first win</a><h2>Will Rohit feature against GT?</h2>A call on Rohit’s participation is still pending, with the franchise set to assess him in the final training session before the match. In an official update, MI confirmed that he is continuing to bat in the nets under the supervision of the medical staff and head coach Mahela Jayawardene.&nbsp;In his absence, MI adjusted their top order by promoting Quinton de Kock to open alongside Ryan Rickelton and the change paid off immediately, with de Kock striking an impressive 112 against Punjab. If Rohit is cleared to play, he is expected to partner de Kock at the top, particularly with Rickelton struggling to maintain consistency after a bright start.&nbsp;So far this season, Rohit has contributed 137 runs from four innings, underlining his value to the side. MI is currently at the bottom of the standings with just two points after four straight defeats and are in urgent need of a bounce back. Rohit return could offer both stability and experience, but the final decision will depend on medical clearance.

Rohit Sharma returns to training after a hamstring injury, with Mumbai Indians closely monitoring his fitness ahead of their clash against Gujarat Titans as they look to bounce back from four consecutive defeats.

Mumbai Indians have been handed a significant boost ahead of their IPL 2026 encounter with Gujarat Titans, as Rohit Sharma has resumed training following a hamstring issue. The former skipper picked up the injury during MI’s clash against Royal Challengers Bengaluru and later underwent scans to assess the problem. Though he initially attempted to play through it, he was sidelined for the match against Punjab Kings, with captain Hardik Pandya earlier indicating that the opener might miss more than one match. Encouragingly for MI, his recovery has progressed well. Before the Ahmedabad fixture, Rohit was back in the nets and appeared at ease, playing his usual range of shots fluently. His presence has boosted morale within the squad, even as the team management remains cautious about taking any risks with his fitness. Also Read - IPL 2026 updated points table: Punjab Kings continue dominance at top, KKR ninth after first win Will Rohit feature against GT? A call on Rohit’s participation is still pending, with the franchise set to assess him in the final training session before the match. In an official update, MI confirmed that he is continuing to bat in the nets under the supervision of the medical staff and head coach Mahela Jayawardene. In his absence, MI adjusted their top order by promoting Quinton de Kock to open alongside Ryan Rickelton and the change paid off immediately, with de Kock striking an impressive 112 against Punjab. If Rohit is cleared to play, he is expected to partner de Kock at the top, particularly with Rickelton struggling to maintain consistency after a bright start. So far this season, Rohit has contributed 137 runs from four innings, underlining his value to the side. MI is currently at the bottom of the standings with just two points after four straight defeats and are in urgent need of a bounce back. Rohit return could offer both stability and experience, but the final decision will depend on medical clearance.

Rohit Sharma returns to training after a hamstring injury, with Mumbai Indians closely monitoring his fitness ahead of their clash against Gujarat Titans as they look to bounce back from four consecutive defeats.

IPL 2026: Rohit Sharma trains ahead of GT clash, will he make the XI?

Copper Connolly announced himself in IPL with a match-winning 72 not out for Punjab Kings 2026 season opener against Gujarat Titans. He got overshadowed in the presence of big stars like Prabhsimran Singh, Priyansh Arya, and Shreyas Iyer before reminding everyone of his abilities on Sunday (Apr 19) against Lucknow Super Giant. The Aussie all-rounder scored 87 off 46 balls vs LSG and added 182 runs for the second wicket with Priyansh Arya (93 off 37 balls). The batters, in total, hit 16 of 21 sixes PBKS managed simply by 'taking notes off each other's batting.'<h2>Connolly explains six-hitting ability of PBKS</h2>Speaking after the game against LSG, Connolly addressed batting under Arya's big-hitting shadow and said: "I think we will have discussions about what works for each other and we take little things out of each other's books. We're all looking to try and get better. That's what the game's about.Also Read - <a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/ipl-2026-unstoppable-punjab-kings-beat-own-2014-record-for-longest-undefeated-six-match-streak-in-ipl-history-1776661989359">IPL 2026 | Unstoppable Punjab Kings beat own record to scale new highs</a>"You're trying to get better and you're trying to, I guess, be the best team there is. And yeah, we've enjoyed sort of taking little notes off each other, and we're looking forward to, yeah, plenty more notes and messages from each other to get better as a group and a squad," he added.While others get attention for flamboyant batting, Connolly has went on to hit 14 sixes this season - joint fifth-most in IPL 2026 along with PBKS skipper Shreyas Iyer and second highest for the franchise behind Priyansh Arya's 20 maximums.<h2>Punjab Kings steamrolling in IPL 2026</h2>The PBKS batters are having a gala time in IPL 2026 with four batters crossing 200-run mark in six matches played so far. PBKS have three batters in top 10 of orange cap leaderboard and four in top 11. Connoll is PBKS' highest run-scorer this season with 223 runs in five innings at an average of nearly 56 and a strike rate of 164. He has hit two fifties with a best of 87 which came against LSG.Behind Connolly are openers Priyansh Arya and Prabhsimran Singh with both batters scoring 211 runs in five innings each. Just behind them is skipper Shreyas Iyer with 208 runs in five innings at an average of 52 and a strike rate of 182.

Connolly has hit 14 sixes this season - joint fifth-most in IPL 2026 along with PBKS skipper Shreyas Iyer and 2nd highest for the team behind Priyansh Arya's 20. Connoll is PBKS' highest run-scorer this season with 223 runs in five innings at an average of nearly 56 and a strike rate of 164.

Copper Connolly announced himself in IPL with a match-winning 72 not out for Punjab Kings 2026 season opener against Gujarat Titans. He got overshadowed in the presence of big stars like Prabhsimran Singh, Priyansh Arya, and Shreyas Iyer before reminding everyone of his abilities on Sunday (Apr 19) against Lucknow Super Giant. The Aussie all-rounder scored 87 off 46 balls vs LSG and added 182 runs for the second wicket with Priyansh Arya (93 off 37 balls). The batters, in total, hit 16 of 21 sixes PBKS managed simply by 'taking notes off each other's batting.' Connolly explains six-hitting ability of PBKS Speaking after the game against LSG, Connolly addressed batting under Arya's big-hitting shadow and said: "I think we will have discussions about what works for each other and we take little things out of each other's books. We're all looking to try and get better. That's what the game's about. Also Read - IPL 2026 | Unstoppable Punjab Kings beat own record to scale new highs "You're trying to get better and you're trying to, I guess, be the best team there is. And yeah, we've enjoyed sort of taking little notes off each other, and we're looking forward to, yeah, plenty more notes and messages from each other to get better as a group and a squad," he added. While others get attention for flamboyant batting, Connolly has went on to hit 14 sixes this season - joint fifth-most in IPL 2026 along with PBKS skipper Shreyas Iyer and second highest for the franchise behind Priyansh Arya's 20 maximums. Punjab Kings steamrolling in IPL 2026 The PBKS batters are having a gala time in IPL 2026 with four batters crossing 200-run mark in six matches played so far. PBKS have three batters in top 10 of orange cap leaderboard and four in top 11. Connoll is PBKS' highest run-scorer this season with 223 runs in five innings at an average of nearly 56 and a strike rate of 164. He has hit two fifties with a best of 87 which came against LSG. Behind Connolly are openers Priyansh Arya and Prabhsimran Singh with both batters scoring 211 runs in five innings each. Just behind them is skipper Shreyas Iyer with 208 runs in five innings at an average of 52 and a strike rate of 182.

Connolly has hit 14 sixes this season - joint fifth-most in IPL 2026 along with PBKS skipper Shreyas Iyer and 2nd highest for the team behind Priyansh Arya's 20. Connoll is PBKS' highest run-scorer this season with 223 runs in five innings at an average of nearly 56 and a strike rate of 164.

IPL 2026 | 'Little notes off each other': Copper Connolly reveals secret behind PBKS' batting prowess

Punjab Kings delivered a commanding performance on Sunday (Apr 19), defeating Lucknow Super Giants by 54 runs to register their fifth win of IPL 2026. Playing at Maharaja Yadavindra Singh International Cricket Stadium, PBKS piled up an imposing 254/7, powered by explosive knocks from Priyansh Arya (93 off 37) and Cooper Connolly (87 off 46). Chasing 255, PBKS bowlers kept the Rishabh Pant-led side in check, limiting them to 200/5 in 20 overs.&nbsp;With five wins from six matches, PBKS continue to sit comfortably at the top of the table with 11 points, three ahead of second-placed Royal Challengers Bengaluru. Meanwhile, LSG remain in eighth place, having managed just two wins from six games, giving them four points so far.&nbsp;Also Read - <a href="https://www.wionews.com/photos/-unstoppable-under-iyer-how-punjab-kings-created-ipl-s-longest-undefeated-streak-from-the-start-of-season-1776662447923">'Unstoppable under Iyer': How Punjab Kings created IPL's longest undefeated streak from the start of season</a>&nbsp;Rajasthan Royals missed an opportunity to climb higher in the standings after a four-wicket loss to Kolkata Knight Riders at Eden Gardens. Rinku Singh played a match-winning knock, scoring 53 off 34 balls, including five fours and two sixes. Led by Riyan Parag, RR remain third with eight points from six matches.&nbsp;&nbsp;KKR, on the other hand, finally opened their account this season and moved up to ninth with three points from seven outings.&nbsp;Also Read - <a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/golf-matt-fitzpatrick-beats-scottie-scheffler-in-playoff-with-out-of-world-shot-wins-rbc-heritage-1776657045989">WATCH - Fitzpatrick's 'out of world' approach shot to win RBC Heritage playoff</a>&nbsp;Up next, Mumbai Indians are set to take on Gujarat Titans on Monday (Apr 20) at Narendra Modi Stadium. The clash will feature Hardik Pandya facing his former team in what promises to be a closely watched contest.

Here’s the updated Indian Premier League 2026 points table after Punjab Kings’ 54-run win over Lucknow Super Giants and Kolkata Knight Riders’ four-wicket victory over Rajasthan Royals.

Punjab Kings delivered a commanding performance on Sunday (Apr 19), defeating Lucknow Super Giants by 54 runs to register their fifth win of IPL 2026. Playing at Maharaja Yadavindra Singh International Cricket Stadium, PBKS piled up an imposing 254/7, powered by explosive knocks from Priyansh Arya (93 off 37) and Cooper Connolly (87 off 46). Chasing 255, PBKS bowlers kept the Rishabh Pant-led side in check, limiting them to 200/5 in 20 overs. With five wins from six matches, PBKS continue to sit comfortably at the top of the table with 11 points, three ahead of second-placed Royal Challengers Bengaluru. Meanwhile, LSG remain in eighth place, having managed just two wins from six games, giving them four points so far. Also Read - 'Unstoppable under Iyer': How Punjab Kings created IPL's longest undefeated streak from the start of season Rajasthan Royals missed an opportunity to climb higher in the standings after a four-wicket loss to Kolkata Knight Riders at Eden Gardens. Rinku Singh played a match-winning knock, scoring 53 off 34 balls, including five fours and two sixes. Led by Riyan Parag, RR remain third with eight points from six matches. KKR, on the other hand, finally opened their account this season and moved up to ninth with three points from seven outings. Also Read - WATCH - Fitzpatrick's 'out of world' approach shot to win RBC Heritage playoff Up next, Mumbai Indians are set to take on Gujarat Titans on Monday (Apr 20) at Narendra Modi Stadium. The clash will feature Hardik Pandya facing his former team in what promises to be a closely watched contest.

Here’s the updated Indian Premier League 2026 points table after Punjab Kings’ 54-run win over Lucknow Super Giants and Kolkata Knight Riders’ four-wicket victory over Rajasthan Royals.

IPL 2026 updated points table: Punjab Kings continue dominance at top, KKR ninth after first win

Punjab Kings may not have won an IPL title in their franchise history, but they have achieved something no team in IPL's 19-year history has been able to. In IPL 2026, Punjab Kings became the first team in the tournament history to go undefeated in their first six matches in a season. 

Punjab Kings may not have won an IPL title in their franchise history, but they have achieved something no team in IPL's 19-year history has been able to. In IPL 2026, Punjab Kings became the first team in the tournament history to go undefeated in their first six matches in a season.&nbsp;

'Unstoppable under Iyer':  How Punjab Kings created IPL's longest undefeated streak from the start of season

Punjab Kings may not have won an IPL title in their franchise history, but they have achieved something no team in IPL's 19-year history has been able to. With the 54-run win against Lucknow Super Giants (LSG) on Sunday (Apr 19) in IPL 2026, Punjab Kings became the first team in the tournament history to go undefeated in their first six matches in a season. In the six matches played, PBKS have won five matches while one was washed out - putting them on top of points table with 11 points. They beat IPL's longest winning streak (from the start of season) of five matches undefeated by Rajasthan Royals (2015) and Kings XI Punjab (2014).<h2>How Punjab Kings managed longest winning IPL streak from beginning of a season?</h2>Punjab, runners-up in IPL 2025, started the season with a three-wicket win against Gujarat Titans (GT) on March 31 in their season opener as they chased 163-run target despite some hiccups. Copper Connolly, with 72 not out off 44, was Player of the Match (POTM) for his match-winning innings.Also Read - <a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/bcci-likely-to-extend-agarkar-s-tenure-as-chief-selector-ahead-of-2027-world-cup-1776578734343">BCCI likely to extend Agarkar’s tenure as chief selector ahead of 2027 World Cup</a>In the next match, PBKS beat five-time champions Chennai Super Kings (CSK) on April 3 by five wickets. Chasing a decent target of 210 runs, everybody chipped in for PBKS as they achieved the win in 18.4 overs. Skipper Shreyas Iyer top scored with 29-ball 50 but opener Priyansh Arya was POTM for his brilliant 11-ball 39 in the powerplay.In the third match, Punjab Kings had three-time champions Kolkata Knight Riders (KKR) on the ropes at 25/2 in 2.4 overs on April 6 before rain washed out rest of the match. Both teams were awarded one point each for the no result contest.PBKS next faced batting powerhouse SunRisers Hyderabad (SRH) on April 11 and beat them by six wickets. Chasing above par 220, Punjab reached the target in 18.5 overs with skipper Iyer winning POTM for his 33-ball 69 not out.Next, PBKS beat another five-time winners Mumbai Indians (MI) by seven wickets on April 16. Thanks to POTM Arshdeep Singh's 3/22, PBKS stopped MI at 195/6 in 20 overs and chased the target in 16.3 overs with opener Prabhsimran Singh hitting 39-ball 80 and Iyer scoring 35-ball 66.On Sunday (Apr 19), PBKS batted first for the first time in IPL 2026 as scored 254/7 in 20 overs, thanks to POTM Priyansh Arya's 37-ball 93 and Connolly's 46-ball 87. PBKS stopped Lucknow Super Giants (LSG) at 200/5, winning the match by 54 runs and became the first team to stay undefeated in first six matches of an IPL season.

In the six matches played, PBKS have won five matches while one was washed out - putting them on top of points table with 11 points. They beat IPL's longest winning streak (from the start of season) of five matches undefeated by Rajasthan Royals (2015) and Kings XI Punjab (2014).

Punjab Kings may not have won an IPL title in their franchise history, but they have achieved something no team in IPL's 19-year history has been able to. With the 54-run win against Lucknow Super Giants (LSG) on Sunday (Apr 19) in IPL 2026, Punjab Kings became the first team in the tournament history to go undefeated in their first six matches in a season. In the six matches played, PBKS have won five matches while one was washed out - putting them on top of points table with 11 points. They beat IPL's longest winning streak (from the start of season) of five matches undefeated by Rajasthan Royals (2015) and Kings XI Punjab (2014). How Punjab Kings managed longest winning IPL streak from beginning of a season? Punjab, runners-up in IPL 2025, started the season with a three-wicket win against Gujarat Titans (GT) on March 31 in their season opener as they chased 163-run target despite some hiccups. Copper Connolly, with 72 not out off 44, was Player of the Match (POTM) for his match-winning innings. Also Read - BCCI likely to extend Agarkar’s tenure as chief selector ahead of 2027 World Cup In the next match, PBKS beat five-time champions Chennai Super Kings (CSK) on April 3 by five wickets. Chasing a decent target of 210 runs, everybody chipped in for PBKS as they achieved the win in 18.4 overs. Skipper Shreyas Iyer top scored with 29-ball 50 but opener Priyansh Arya was POTM for his brilliant 11-ball 39 in the powerplay. In the third match, Punjab Kings had three-time champions Kolkata Knight Riders (KKR) on the ropes at 25/2 in 2.4 overs on April 6 before rain washed out rest of the match. Both teams were awarded one point each for the no result contest. PBKS next faced batting powerhouse SunRisers Hyderabad (SRH) on April 11 and beat them by six wickets. Chasing above par 220, Punjab reached the target in 18.5 overs with skipper Iyer winning POTM for his 33-ball 69 not out. Next, PBKS beat another five-time winners Mumbai Indians (MI) by seven wickets on April 16. Thanks to POTM Arshdeep Singh's 3/22, PBKS stopped MI at 195/6 in 20 overs and chased the target in 16.3 overs with opener Prabhsimran Singh hitting 39-ball 80 and Iyer scoring 35-ball 66. On Sunday (Apr 19), PBKS batted first for the first time in IPL 2026 as scored 254/7 in 20 overs, thanks to POTM Priyansh Arya's 37-ball 93 and Connolly's 46-ball 87. PBKS stopped Lucknow Super Giants (LSG) at 200/5, winning the match by 54 runs and became the first team to stay undefeated in first six matches of an IPL season.

In the six matches played, PBKS have won five matches while one was washed out - putting them on top of points table with 11 points. They beat IPL's longest winning streak (from the start of season) of five matches undefeated by Rajasthan Royals (2015) and Kings XI Punjab (2014).

IPL 2026 | Unstoppable Punjab Kings beat own 2014 record to scale new highs in historic start of season

Punjab Kings (PBKS) continued to show brilliance in IPL 2026 as they beat Lucknow Super Giants (LSG) by 54 runs on Sunday (Apr 19). This was the fifth win for PBKS in six matches and first while defending. The Shreyas Iyer-led side is so far unbeaten in the tournament with one of their five games getting washed out. LSG, on the other hand, have sunk to the 8th place on the points table with just two wins and four losses in six games. They have four points in the tournament so far, same as CSK, which also has two wins and four losses in six games.Also Read - <a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/bcci-likely-to-extend-agarkar-s-tenure-as-chief-selector-ahead-of-2027-world-cup-1776578734343">BCCI likely to extend Agarkar’s tenure as chief selector ahead of 2027 World Cup</a><h2>LSG batting fails to impress</h2>Chasing a humungous total of 254 runs, LSG did have a good start, scoring 61 runs in the powerplay before Ayush Badoni (35 off 21) was dismissed on the last ball of sixth over. Mitchell Marsh (40 off 28) then added 48 runs with skipper Rishabh Pant (43 off 23) but things started to go downhill after Marsh and Pant were dismissed in successive overs, 12th and 13th, respectively. Nicholas Pooran, who is horribly out of form this season, was dismissed for nine runs in the 15 overs with LSG still needing about 115 runs. Aiden Markram (42 off 22) and Mukul Chaudhary (21 not out off 17), tried their best and added 60 runs for the fifth wicket but the target proved too much in the end. LSG eventually finished at 200/5 in 20 over overs.<h2>PBKS show they can bat first as well</h2>In the five matches before the game against LSG, Punjab never batted first, but it changed on Sunday (Apr 19). LSG won the toss and asked PBKS to bat first. The decision by Pant seemed to work with Prabhsimran getting out on a duck in the first over but the second success came too later after that.Priyansh Arya (93 off 37) and Cooper Connolly (87 off 46) added 182 runs for the second wicket in 13.2 overs to take PBKS on course of a big total. The innings seemed to lose steam as PBKS became 208/5 from 185/1 in space of three overs as Iyer (5) and Nehal Wadhera (13 off 7) failed, but Marcus Stoinis (29 off 16) and Shashank Singh (17 off 6) took the team past 250. PBKS eventually finished at 254/7 in 20 overs, leaving LSG a mountain to climb which they failed at.

PBKS beat Lucknow Super Giants (LSG) by 54 runs on Sunday (Apr 19). This was the fifth win for PBKS in six matches and first while defending. The Shreyas Iyer-led side is so far unbeaten in the tournament with one of their five games getting washed out.

Punjab Kings (PBKS) continued to show brilliance in IPL 2026 as they beat Lucknow Super Giants (LSG) by 54 runs on Sunday (Apr 19). This was the fifth win for PBKS in six matches and first while defending. The Shreyas Iyer-led side is so far unbeaten in the tournament with one of their five games getting washed out. LSG, on the other hand, have sunk to the 8th place on the points table with just two wins and four losses in six games. They have four points in the tournament so far, same as CSK, which also has two wins and four losses in six games. Also Read - BCCI likely to extend Agarkar’s tenure as chief selector ahead of 2027 World Cup LSG batting fails to impress Chasing a humungous total of 254 runs, LSG did have a good start, scoring 61 runs in the powerplay before Ayush Badoni (35 off 21) was dismissed on the last ball of sixth over. Mitchell Marsh (40 off 28) then added 48 runs with skipper Rishabh Pant (43 off 23) but things started to go downhill after Marsh and Pant were dismissed in successive overs, 12th and 13th, respectively. Nicholas Pooran, who is horribly out of form this season, was dismissed for nine runs in the 15 overs with LSG still needing about 115 runs. Aiden Markram (42 off 22) and Mukul Chaudhary (21 not out off 17), tried their best and added 60 runs for the fifth wicket but the target proved too much in the end. LSG eventually finished at 200/5 in 20 over overs. PBKS show they can bat first as well In the five matches before the game against LSG, Punjab never batted first, but it changed on Sunday (Apr 19). LSG won the toss and asked PBKS to bat first. The decision by Pant seemed to work with Prabhsimran getting out on a duck in the first over but the second success came too later after that. Priyansh Arya (93 off 37) and Cooper Connolly (87 off 46) added 182 runs for the second wicket in 13.2 overs to take PBKS on course of a big total. The innings seemed to lose steam as PBKS became 208/5 from 185/1 in space of three overs as Iyer (5) and Nehal Wadhera (13 off 7) failed, but Marcus Stoinis (29 off 16) and Shashank Singh (17 off 6) took the team past 250. PBKS eventually finished at 254/7 in 20 overs, leaving LSG a mountain to climb which they failed at.

PBKS beat Lucknow Super Giants (LSG) by 54 runs on Sunday (Apr 19). This was the fifth win for PBKS in six matches and first while defending. The Shreyas Iyer-led side is so far unbeaten in the tournament with one of their five games getting washed out.

Who won yesterday's IPL 2026 match between Punjab Kings vs Lucknow Super Giants? check result

Punjab Kings (PBKS) cemented their place at the top of the Indian Premier League (IPL 2026) standings on Sunday (April 19) as they defeated Lucknow Super Giants (LSG). Playing at the Maharaja Yadavindra Singh International Cricket Stadium, Mullanpur in New Chandigarh, PBKS beat LSG by 54 runs and now have five wins in the tournament. With the win, Punjab remain the only unbeaten side in the IPL 2026 as they march towards the Playoffs. Priyansh Arya (93) and Cooper Connolly (87) were the stars of the match as they also put in 182 runs for the second wicket.<h2>PBKS continue flawless form</h2>Arya struck 93 off 37 balls and fellow left-hander Connolly hit 87 to power Punjab to this season's highest total of 254/7 after being invited to bat first in Chandigarh. In reply, Lucknow managed just 200/5 as Punjab consolidated their top spot in the 10-team table with five wins and one no result in six matches.&nbsp;An early reprieve for Connolly proved costly for Lucknow after skipper Rishabh Pant decided not to review an lbw call in the second over from Mohsin Khan and replays suggested the ball would have hit the stumps.&nbsp;ALSO READ | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/photos/from-cameron-green-to-liam-livingstone-5-most-expensive-players-in-ipl-2026-auctions-matheesha-pathirana-kartik-sharma-prashant-veer-1774031148132">From Cameron Green to Liam Livingstone, 5 most expensive players in IPL 2026 auctions</a>&nbsp;Australia's Connolly was on four at the time and put on 182 runs for the second wicket with Arya as the two bludgeoned the opposition attack with sixes. Arya reached his second fifty of the season in 19 balls and soon the Lucknow attack had no answers for the batting blitz. Connolly went after Aiden Markram with three straight sixes and Arya finished the over with two more in a 32-run 13th over and Punjab looked at 300. But pace bowler Prince Yadav took down Connolly and Arya fell three balls later in the next over to miss out on a century.&nbsp;ALSO READ | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/photos/from-rohit-sharma-to-sanju-samson-5-highest-individual-score-in-a-lost-chase-in-ipl-yusuf-pathan-kl-rahul-shaun-marsh-ipl-2026-1774084136030">From Rohit Sharma to Sanju Samson, 5 highest individual scores in a lost chase in IPL</a>&nbsp;Mohsin dismissed skipper Shreyas Iyer for five, but Australia's Marcus Stoinis steered the team to a mammoth total with his 16-ball 29. Mitchell Marsh, who hit 40, and Ayush Badoni (35) handed Lucknow a brisk start and Pant hit 43 but regular wickets and the ever-increasing run rate kept the team behind the chase. Markram hit a valiant 22-ball 42 and despite a few dropped catches from Punjab fielders, Lucknow lost their third straight match.

Playing at the Maharaja Yadavindra Singh International Cricket Stadium, Mullanpur in New Chandigarh, PBKS beat LSG by 54 runs and now have five wins in the tournament. With the win, Punjab remain the only unbeaten side in the IPL 2026 as they march towards the Playoffs. 

Punjab Kings (PBKS) cemented their place at the top of the Indian Premier League (IPL 2026) standings on Sunday (April 19) as they defeated Lucknow Super Giants (LSG). Playing at the Maharaja Yadavindra Singh International Cricket Stadium, Mullanpur in New Chandigarh, PBKS beat LSG by 54 runs and now have five wins in the tournament. With the win, Punjab remain the only unbeaten side in the IPL 2026 as they march towards the Playoffs. Priyansh Arya (93) and Cooper Connolly (87) were the stars of the match as they also put in 182 runs for the second wicket. PBKS continue flawless form Arya struck 93 off 37 balls and fellow left-hander Connolly hit 87 to power Punjab to this season's highest total of 254/7 after being invited to bat first in Chandigarh. In reply, Lucknow managed just 200/5 as Punjab consolidated their top spot in the 10-team table with five wins and one no result in six matches. An early reprieve for Connolly proved costly for Lucknow after skipper Rishabh Pant decided not to review an lbw call in the second over from Mohsin Khan and replays suggested the ball would have hit the stumps. ALSO READ | From Cameron Green to Liam Livingstone, 5 most expensive players in IPL 2026 auctions Australia's Connolly was on four at the time and put on 182 runs for the second wicket with Arya as the two bludgeoned the opposition attack with sixes. Arya reached his second fifty of the season in 19 balls and soon the Lucknow attack had no answers for the batting blitz. Connolly went after Aiden Markram with three straight sixes and Arya finished the over with two more in a 32-run 13th over and Punjab looked at 300. But pace bowler Prince Yadav took down Connolly and Arya fell three balls later in the next over to miss out on a century. ALSO READ | From Rohit Sharma to Sanju Samson, 5 highest individual scores in a lost chase in IPL Mohsin dismissed skipper Shreyas Iyer for five, but Australia's Marcus Stoinis steered the team to a mammoth total with his 16-ball 29. Mitchell Marsh, who hit 40, and Ayush Badoni (35) handed Lucknow a brisk start and Pant hit 43 but regular wickets and the ever-increasing run rate kept the team behind the chase. Markram hit a valiant 22-ball 42 and despite a few dropped catches from Punjab fielders, Lucknow lost their third straight match.

Playing at the Maharaja Yadavindra Singh International Cricket Stadium, Mullanpur in New Chandigarh, PBKS beat LSG by 54 runs and now have five wins in the tournament. With the win, Punjab remain the only unbeaten side in the IPL 2026 as they march towards the Playoffs.&nbsp;

IPL 2026: Priyansh, Connolly help Punjab Kings continue dazzling form, beat LSG to cement top spot

From PBKS vs LSG to SRH vs DC here are five innings with most sixes in an IPL history. The latest to join the list was PBKS vs LSG with 21 sixes as Priyansh Arya and Cooper Connolly were in great form. 

From PBKS vs LSG to SRH vs DC here are five innings with most sixes in an IPL history. The latest to join the list was PBKS vs LSG with 21 sixes as Priyansh Arya and Cooper Connolly were in great form.&nbsp;

From PBKS vs LSG to SRH vs DC, 5 innings with most sixes in an IPL history

A crucial 76-run partnership between Anukul Roy and half-centurion Rinku Singh powered Kolkata Knight Riders to their first victory of the season, as they defeated Rajasthan Royals by four wickets at Eden Gardens on Sunday (Apr 19). Following this result, KKR moved to ninth place on the table with one win, five losses and one no result, totaling three points. Meanwhile, RR sit in fourth position.&nbsp;Chasing 156, KKR had a slow start, as Jofra Archer struck immediately, dismissing Tim Seifert for a golden duck on the very first ball. Soon after, a sharp catch behind the stumps by Dhruv Jurel sent skipper Ajinkya Rahane back for a two-ball duck, handing Nandre Burger his first wicket. KKR were reeling at 5/2 in just 1.2 overs.&nbsp;Cameron Green tried to steady the innings, countering the early pressure with a couple of boundaries against Archer and Burger in his first few deliveries. However, just as he looked set, a brilliant piece of work by Jurel behind the stumps led to his dismissal for a quickfire 27 off 13 balls, which included four fours and a six. At that stage, KKR were struggling at 37/3 in 4.3 overs.&nbsp;Spinners continued KKR's downfall as Angkrish Raghuvanshi (10), Rovman Powell 23 in 20 balls, with two fours and a six), and Ramandeep Singh (10) all fell to spin, with Ravindra Jadeja getting two of these. KKR was 85/6 in 12.3 overs. KKR was 97/6 in 15 overs, needing 59 runs. And then Rinku Singh started to break the shackles with Anukul Roy, collecting a six each against Bishnoi, reaching the 100-run mark in 15.1 overs. A couple of boundaries against Archer by Rinku in the 17th over relieved the pressure. A fifty-run stand came between Rinku and Anukul, and KKR needed 21 runs in the final two overs. In Archer's penultimate over, Anukul smashed him for a six right off the meat of the bat, leaving KKR with nine needed in the final over. Rinku levelled the scores with two successive fours against Brijesh Sharma and finally sealed the match with a six, bringing up his first fifty since the 2023 season.&nbsp;Also Read - <a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/bcci-likely-to-extend-agarkar-s-tenure-as-chief-selector-ahead-of-2027-world-cup-1776578734343">BCCI likely to extend Agarkar’s tenure as chief selector ahead of 2027 World Cup</a> Kolkata Knight Riders (KKR) bowlers Varun Chakravarthy and Kartik starred with three-wicket hauls apiece to restrict Rajasthan Royals (RR) to a modest 155/9 in their 20 overs in the ongoing Indian Premier League (IPL) clash on Sunday in Kolkata. After winning the toss, RR opted to bat. Yashasvi Jaiswal and Vaibhav Sooryavanshi opened the innings for the Royals. Vaibhav Arora started with a very tight first over, conceding just 6 runs in the opening over. Sooryavanshi got his innings going in the next over, opening his arms against Kartik Tyagi and smashing two boundaries. However, Cameron Green responded with a tight over, conceding just a single boundary and following it up with four consecutive dot balls. Continuing to dominate the opening stand, Sooryavanshi took on Arora in his second over, collecting 15 runs with three crisp fours. He carried the momentum into the next over as well, launching KKR's premium spinner Sunil Narine for a six. Narine, though, bounced back strongly, tightening his line to deliver five dot balls in succession. In the last over of the power-play, Green leaked 22 runs, which powered the visitors to 63/0. RR reached the 50-run mark in 5.2 overs. KKR tightened their lines after the power play, conceding just 16 runs in the next two overs. The pressure paid off in the 8th over when Chakravarthy dismissed the dangerous Sooryavanshi for 46 in 28 balls, with six fours and two sixes, bringing up his 200th wicket in T20 cricket, bringing Dhruv Jurel to the crease. RR was 81/1 in 8.4 overs. Chakravarthy struck again in his next over, picking up his second wicket of the match by dismissing Dhruv Jurel for just 5. Attempting a reverse sweep, Jurel completely missed the ball, and Tim Seifert, behind the stumps, did a sharp stumping.&nbsp;&nbsp;Narine in the following over, took the price wicket of set batter Jaiswal for 39 in 29 balls, with four boundaries and two sixes, bringing Shimron Hetmyer to the crease. RR was 99/3 in 11.2 overs. Things got worse for the Royals as Chakravarthy in the last over cleaned up RR skipper Riyan Parag (12 in 14 balls, with a four), who was struggling to put bat on ball. KKR faced a collapse going from 81/0 to 124-5 as Narine, on the final ball of his spell, removed Donovan Ferreira for 7. Tyagi, in the 19th over, gave RR a triple blow as he removed Ravindra Jadeja, Shimron Hetmyer, and Ravi Bishnoi. Arora, in the final over, gave 9 runs to restrict the visitors to 155/9. Varun (3/14) and Kartik Tyagi (3/22) were the top bowlers for KKR, while Sunil Narine (2/26) in four overs also delivered a masterful spell.&nbsp;With inputs from agencies

Following this win, KKR moved to ninth place on the table with one win, five losses and one no result, totaling three points. Meanwhile, RR sit in fourth position.

A crucial 76-run partnership between Anukul Roy and half-centurion Rinku Singh powered Kolkata Knight Riders to their first victory of the season, as they defeated Rajasthan Royals by four wickets at Eden Gardens on Sunday (Apr 19). Following this result, KKR moved to ninth place on the table with one win, five losses and one no result, totaling three points. Meanwhile, RR sit in fourth position. Chasing 156, KKR had a slow start, as Jofra Archer struck immediately, dismissing Tim Seifert for a golden duck on the very first ball. Soon after, a sharp catch behind the stumps by Dhruv Jurel sent skipper Ajinkya Rahane back for a two-ball duck, handing Nandre Burger his first wicket. KKR were reeling at 5/2 in just 1.2 overs. Cameron Green tried to steady the innings, countering the early pressure with a couple of boundaries against Archer and Burger in his first few deliveries. However, just as he looked set, a brilliant piece of work by Jurel behind the stumps led to his dismissal for a quickfire 27 off 13 balls, which included four fours and a six. At that stage, KKR were struggling at 37/3 in 4.3 overs. Spinners continued KKR's downfall as Angkrish Raghuvanshi (10), Rovman Powell 23 in 20 balls, with two fours and a six), and Ramandeep Singh (10) all fell to spin, with Ravindra Jadeja getting two of these. KKR was 85/6 in 12.3 overs. KKR was 97/6 in 15 overs, needing 59 runs. And then Rinku Singh started to break the shackles with Anukul Roy, collecting a six each against Bishnoi, reaching the 100-run mark in 15.1 overs. A couple of boundaries against Archer by Rinku in the 17th over relieved the pressure. A fifty-run stand came between Rinku and Anukul, and KKR needed 21 runs in the final two overs. In Archer's penultimate over, Anukul smashed him for a six right off the meat of the bat, leaving KKR with nine needed in the final over. Rinku levelled the scores with two successive fours against Brijesh Sharma and finally sealed the match with a six, bringing up his first fifty since the 2023 season. Also Read - BCCI likely to extend Agarkar’s tenure as chief selector ahead of 2027 World Cup Kolkata Knight Riders (KKR) bowlers Varun Chakravarthy and Kartik starred with three-wicket hauls apiece to restrict Rajasthan Royals (RR) to a modest 155/9 in their 20 overs in the ongoing Indian Premier League (IPL) clash on Sunday in Kolkata. After winning the toss, RR opted to bat. Yashasvi Jaiswal and Vaibhav Sooryavanshi opened the innings for the Royals. Vaibhav Arora started with a very tight first over, conceding just 6 runs in the opening over. Sooryavanshi got his innings going in the next over, opening his arms against Kartik Tyagi and smashing two boundaries. However, Cameron Green responded with a tight over, conceding just a single boundary and following it up with four consecutive dot balls. Continuing to dominate the opening stand, Sooryavanshi took on Arora in his second over, collecting 15 runs with three crisp fours. He carried the momentum into the next over as well, launching KKR's premium spinner Sunil Narine for a six. Narine, though, bounced back strongly, tightening his line to deliver five dot balls in succession. In the last over of the power-play, Green leaked 22 runs, which powered the visitors to 63/0. RR reached the 50-run mark in 5.2 overs. KKR tightened their lines after the power play, conceding just 16 runs in the next two overs. The pressure paid off in the 8th over when Chakravarthy dismissed the dangerous Sooryavanshi for 46 in 28 balls, with six fours and two sixes, bringing up his 200th wicket in T20 cricket, bringing Dhruv Jurel to the crease. RR was 81/1 in 8.4 overs. Chakravarthy struck again in his next over, picking up his second wicket of the match by dismissing Dhruv Jurel for just 5. Attempting a reverse sweep, Jurel completely missed the ball, and Tim Seifert, behind the stumps, did a sharp stumping. Narine in the following over, took the price wicket of set batter Jaiswal for 39 in 29 balls, with four boundaries and two sixes, bringing Shimron Hetmyer to the crease. RR was 99/3 in 11.2 overs. Things got worse for the Royals as Chakravarthy in the last over cleaned up RR skipper Riyan Parag (12 in 14 balls, with a four), who was struggling to put bat on ball. KKR faced a collapse going from 81/0 to 124-5 as Narine, on the final ball of his spell, removed Donovan Ferreira for 7. Tyagi, in the 19th over, gave RR a triple blow as he removed Ravindra Jadeja, Shimron Hetmyer, and Ravi Bishnoi. Arora, in the final over, gave 9 runs to restrict the visitors to 155/9. Varun (3/14) and Kartik Tyagi (3/22) were the top bowlers for KKR, while Sunil Narine (2/26) in four overs also delivered a masterful spell. With inputs from agencies

Following this win, KKR moved to ninth place on the table with one win, five losses and one no result, totaling three points. Meanwhile, RR sit in fourth position.

IPL 2026: Rinku Singh finally comes good as KKR register first win of the season against RR

From Ajinkya Rahane to Shikhar Dhawan here is a look at five batters with most ducks as an opener in IPL. The list also consists names like Parthiv Patel, Gautam Gambhir and David Warner after Rahane has topped the unwanted club.

From Ajinkya Rahane to Shikhar Dhawan here is a look at five batters with most ducks as an opener in IPL. The list also consists names like Parthiv Patel, Gautam Gambhir and David Warner after Rahane has topped the unwanted club.

From Ajinkya Rahane to Shikhar Dhawan, 5 batters with most ducks as an opener in IPL

Punjab Kings (PBKS) captain Shreyas Iyer is reportedly locked in as Team India’s next T20I skipper should the BCCI selectors decide against continuing with Suryakumar Yadav after IPL 2026. SKY’s form has been a worry for the BCCI selectors and his IPL team (Mumbai Indians), leaving no option but to put him on notice; also, considering the next two assignments two years later (2028 LA Games and the T20 World Cup), the decision-makers are contemplating his role moving forward.&nbsp;Iyer’s journey from an emerging superstar to a marquee player to an IPL captain is all but fascinating. Since first donning the captain’s hat midway through the 2018 IPL season (for Delhi Daredevils, now Delhi Capitals), Iyer switched bases to KKR four years later before leading his team to their third IPL title in 2024. Following his departure ahead of the mega auction, Iyer joined Punjab Kings, where he again joined hands with head coach Ricky Ponting, leading the team to the final in the first season.&nbsp;Also read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/ipl-2026-heartbreak-for-csk-as-top-run-getter-ayush-mhatre-suffers-hamstring-tear-urvil-patel-csk-injury-crisis-ms-dhoni-1776590707077">IPL 2026: Heartbreak for CSK as run-getter Ayush Mhatre suffers hamstring tear</a> &nbsp;Established at the PBKS, Iyer, 31, has peaked with his batting form and leadership calls. With Punjab sitting at the top of the points table with five wins in six contested matches and remaining unbeaten thus far, Iyer’s stature as a leader and a dependable middle-order batter has grown leaps and bounds. His match-winning knocks against IPL giants and former winners have further cemented his chances of making a comeback to India’s T20I side for the first time since 2023. &nbsp;“Iyer last played a T20I in 2023. He has not been part of the current setup. It’s a big call to bring him back and hand him the captaincy straightaway,” a BCCI source revealed in a chat with TOI. “The focus has shifted towards the 2027 ODI World Cup, which has given selectors breathing space to plan for a T20I leadership transition.”<h3>High praise from PBKS coach</h3>Ruling the cricket sphere with his timeless aura and brilliant stats, Iyer has received massive praise from PBKS bowling James Hopes, someone who has watched Iyer grow into an unstoppable force today. &nbsp;“He’s very aware of what his perceived weaknesses were over the years. He’s come into this season having really nailed them. When he got hurt in Australia (in Oct last year), he was starting to nailing them in international cricket as well,” Hopes said.&nbsp; &nbsp;“Once he finds his way back into the Indian team, you’ll see the batter he’s going to be for the rest of his career. Captaincy improves his batting.&nbsp; &nbsp;“He was very young when he was captaining Delhi. He’s very well planned, but still follows his gut,” Hopes said. “Ricky and Shreyas work well together. When we get into our meetings, he’s the captain. He steps up, and he’s got his own ideas, he’s willing to listen,” Hopes added. &nbsp;Meanwhile, Iyer is currently the vice-captain of Team India’s ODI setup and remains in line to become the next T20I captain.&nbsp;

Reports suggest Shreyas Iyer is the top contender to replace Suryakumar Yadav as India’s T20I captain. Read about the BCCI’s potential leadership shift, Iyer’s IPL 2026 form, and why he is back in the mix.

Punjab Kings (PBKS) captain Shreyas Iyer is reportedly locked in as Team India’s next T20I skipper should the BCCI selectors decide against continuing with Suryakumar Yadav after IPL 2026. SKY’s form has been a worry for the BCCI selectors and his IPL team (Mumbai Indians), leaving no option but to put him on notice; also, considering the next two assignments two years later (2028 LA Games and the T20 World Cup), the decision-makers are contemplating his role moving forward. Iyer’s journey from an emerging superstar to a marquee player to an IPL captain is all but fascinating. Since first donning the captain’s hat midway through the 2018 IPL season (for Delhi Daredevils, now Delhi Capitals), Iyer switched bases to KKR four years later before leading his team to their third IPL title in 2024. Following his departure ahead of the mega auction, Iyer joined Punjab Kings, where he again joined hands with head coach Ricky Ponting, leading the team to the final in the first season. Also read | IPL 2026: Heartbreak for CSK as run-getter Ayush Mhatre suffers hamstring tear Established at the PBKS, Iyer, 31, has peaked with his batting form and leadership calls. With Punjab sitting at the top of the points table with five wins in six contested matches and remaining unbeaten thus far, Iyer’s stature as a leader and a dependable middle-order batter has grown leaps and bounds. His match-winning knocks against IPL giants and former winners have further cemented his chances of making a comeback to India’s T20I side for the first time since 2023. “Iyer last played a T20I in 2023. He has not been part of the current setup. It’s a big call to bring him back and hand him the captaincy straightaway,” a BCCI source revealed in a chat with TOI. “The focus has shifted towards the 2027 ODI World Cup, which has given selectors breathing space to plan for a T20I leadership transition.” High praise from PBKS coach Ruling the cricket sphere with his timeless aura and brilliant stats, Iyer has received massive praise from PBKS bowling James Hopes, someone who has watched Iyer grow into an unstoppable force today. “He’s very aware of what his perceived weaknesses were over the years. He’s come into this season having really nailed them. When he got hurt in Australia (in Oct last year), he was starting to nailing them in international cricket as well,” Hopes said. “Once he finds his way back into the Indian team, you’ll see the batter he’s going to be for the rest of his career. Captaincy improves his batting. “He was very young when he was captaining Delhi. He’s very well planned, but still follows his gut,” Hopes said. “Ricky and Shreyas work well together. When we get into our meetings, he’s the captain. He steps up, and he’s got his own ideas, he’s willing to listen,” Hopes added. Meanwhile, Iyer is currently the vice-captain of Team India’s ODI setup and remains in line to become the next T20I captain.

Reports suggest Shreyas Iyer is the top contender to replace Suryakumar Yadav as India’s T20I captain. Read about the BCCI’s potential leadership shift, Iyer’s IPL 2026 form, and why he is back in the mix.

Leadership Change within Indian Cricket? BCCI reportedly eyes Shreyas Iyer as next T20I skipper

In a heartbreaking development for Chennai Super Kings (CSK), their top run-getter this season and batting prodigy, Ayush Mhatre, has torn his hamstring midway through the run chase against the SunRisers Hyderabad (SRH) in IPL 2026. Mhatre, who walked in as an Impact Sub for seamer Gurjapneet Singh, was in top form, having smashed 30 off just 12 balls before clutching his hamstring after completing a double. He threw his helmet and appeared in pain before CSK physiotherapist Tommy Simsek attended to him immediately.&nbsp;After receiving treatment, Mhatre attempted to carry on, barely completing a single on the next delivery. Still visibly hampered, he swung hard at the following ball, aiming for extra cover, only for Heinrich Klaasen to pluck a stunning catch out of the air, ending his promising innings. &nbsp;"Obviously, a hamstring tear. I don't know how bad it is. I'm sure we'll scan him probably tomorrow or the next day," the CSK batting coach Mike Hussey said at the post-match presser. "It looks pretty bad, unfortunately. And he's going to be a big, big loss because he's been in really nice touch for us." &nbsp;Mhatre is CSK’s best batter this season, completing 201 runs in six contested matches thus far, while striking at 177.87.&nbsp;&nbsp;Also read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/bcci-likely-to-extend-agarkar-s-tenure-as-chief-selector-ahead-of-2027-world-cup-1776578734343">BCCI likely to extend Agarkar’s tenure as chief selector ahead of 2027 World Cup</a> &nbsp;Meanwhile, Urvil Patel, who made his CSK debut last season, having scored 68 runs in three outings at an unbelievable strike-rate of 212.50, might replace the U19 Indian captain from the next game onwards. &nbsp; &nbsp;"He's an exciting young talent, but it's going to give someone else an opportunity. So that's exciting as well," Hussey continued. "We've got some really good players that haven't been able to get an opportunity. And so, it's going to be exciting for one of those guys. &nbsp;"So, as much as we're really disappointed to lose Ayush - I don't know how long for - it's exciting for a new player to come in and get a chance,” he added.&nbsp;<h3>Is Mhatre out for the remainder of IPL 2026?</h3>Perhaps!&nbsp; &nbsp;Although the scan results are yet to reveal its degree, a hamstring tear usually takes up to six months to recover, depending on its grade. &nbsp;"I mean, it's hard to say," Hussey said. "He didn't last too many balls after the injury, Ayush. But yeah, it's obviously going to affect his batting because he was hitting the ball so well and scoring boundaries almost at will. So, it's definitely going to have an effect for sure." &nbsp;Meanwhile, after suffering their fourth loss of this season, CSK sits in seventh place with two wins and four points from six contested matches; SRH jumped to fourth place with three wins and as many losses.

Chennai Super Kings face a major setback as star batter Ayush Mhatre suffers a hamstring tear against SRH. Get the latest on his injury status and potential replacements for IPL 2026.

In a heartbreaking development for Chennai Super Kings (CSK), their top run-getter this season and batting prodigy, Ayush Mhatre, has torn his hamstring midway through the run chase against the SunRisers Hyderabad (SRH) in IPL 2026. Mhatre, who walked in as an Impact Sub for seamer Gurjapneet Singh, was in top form, having smashed 30 off just 12 balls before clutching his hamstring after completing a double. He threw his helmet and appeared in pain before CSK physiotherapist Tommy Simsek attended to him immediately. After receiving treatment, Mhatre attempted to carry on, barely completing a single on the next delivery. Still visibly hampered, he swung hard at the following ball, aiming for extra cover, only for Heinrich Klaasen to pluck a stunning catch out of the air, ending his promising innings. "Obviously, a hamstring tear. I don't know how bad it is. I'm sure we'll scan him probably tomorrow or the next day," the CSK batting coach Mike Hussey said at the post-match presser. "It looks pretty bad, unfortunately. And he's going to be a big, big loss because he's been in really nice touch for us." Mhatre is CSK’s best batter this season, completing 201 runs in six contested matches thus far, while striking at 177.87. Also read | BCCI likely to extend Agarkar’s tenure as chief selector ahead of 2027 World Cup Meanwhile, Urvil Patel, who made his CSK debut last season, having scored 68 runs in three outings at an unbelievable strike-rate of 212.50, might replace the U19 Indian captain from the next game onwards. "He's an exciting young talent, but it's going to give someone else an opportunity. So that's exciting as well," Hussey continued. "We've got some really good players that haven't been able to get an opportunity. And so, it's going to be exciting for one of those guys. "So, as much as we're really disappointed to lose Ayush - I don't know how long for - it's exciting for a new player to come in and get a chance,” he added. Is Mhatre out for the remainder of IPL 2026? Perhaps! Although the scan results are yet to reveal its degree, a hamstring tear usually takes up to six months to recover, depending on its grade. "I mean, it's hard to say," Hussey said. "He didn't last too many balls after the injury, Ayush. But yeah, it's obviously going to affect his batting because he was hitting the ball so well and scoring boundaries almost at will. So, it's definitely going to have an effect for sure." Meanwhile, after suffering their fourth loss of this season, CSK sits in seventh place with two wins and four points from six contested matches; SRH jumped to fourth place with three wins and as many losses.

Chennai Super Kings face a major setback as star batter Ayush Mhatre suffers a hamstring tear against SRH. Get the latest on his injury status and potential replacements for IPL 2026.

IPL 2026: Heartbreak for CSK as run-getter Ayush Mhatre suffers hamstring tear

After SRH’s victory against Chennai Super Kings, skipper Ishan Kishan praised the team’s young and relatively inexperienced bowling unit for stepping up under pressure, while also pointing out that the batting group needs more discipline in shot selection. Thanks to half-centuries from Abhishek Sharma and Heinrich Klaasen, SRH posted a competitive total of 195. The young pace attack, featuring Eshan Malinga, Sakib Hussain, Praful Hinge and Nitish Kumar Reddy, along with spinner Shivang Kumar, then successfully defended the score. Although Praful was expensive during the powerplay, the bowling group tightened things up in the latter stages to restrict CSK and seal a 10-run win.&nbsp;Speaking after the match, Ishan said he was pleased to see the young bowlers developing confidence and executing their plans. He emphasised the importance of backing them despite inexperience, noting their steady improvement in training sessions.&nbsp;&nbsp;“Lovely when you have a bunch of young bowlers coming up with their plans. Looking at them, look at them getting better day by day at training, you have to trust them,” said Kishan.&nbsp;Also Read - <a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/bcci-likely-to-extend-agarkar-s-tenure-as-chief-selector-ahead-of-2027-world-cup-1776578734343">BCCI likely to extend Agarkar’s tenure as chief selector ahead of 2027 World Cup</a>&nbsp;He also admitted the batting unit fell short by around 30–40 runs and stressed the need for smarter shot choices. Ishan added that the team is not focusing on the points table and prefers to take things one game at a time.&nbsp;"I felt we were 30-40 short, need to be a lot better in our shot selection. Not looking at the points table, need to keep our head down, we will take it one match at a time and see how it goes," he added.&nbsp;Player of the match Eshan, who took crucial wickets of CSK skipper Ruturaj Gaikwad, Matt Short and Sarfaraz Khan, also said during the post-match presentation, "Before the match we had a good plan, and we know the Hyderabad wicket, after 10 overs it reverses.&nbsp;Actually, Ishan was coming for me, he asking me - what kind of deliveries you are going to bowl. At the bowling crease, I decide what to bowl. The reverse is very important for me and the other bowlers. It's a good wicket-taking delivery." SRH has now jumped to fourth spot in the points table, with three wins and three losses.CSK is at the seventh spot, with two wins and four losses.CSK put SRH to bowl first, and half-centuries from Abhishek Sharma (59 in 22 balls, with six fours and four sixes) and Heinrich Klaasen (59 in 39 balls, with six fours and two sixes) took SRH to 194/9. During the run-chase of 195, CSK was in contention courtesy of knocks from Ayush Mhatre (30 in 13 balls, with five fours and a six), Matthew Short (34 in 30 balls, with three fours) and Sarfaraz Khan (25 in 16 balls, with three fours), but spells from Eshan (3/29), Nitish (2/31), Sakib Hussain (1/32) and Shivang Kumar (1/18) kept the pressure on CSK during the second half, leaving them 10 runs short.&nbsp;&nbsp;With inputs from agencies



Speaking after the match, Ishan said he was pleased to see the young bowlers developing confidence and executing their plans. He emphasised the importance of backing them despite inexperience, noting their steady improvement in training sessions. 

After SRH’s victory against Chennai Super Kings, skipper Ishan Kishan praised the team’s young and relatively inexperienced bowling unit for stepping up under pressure, while also pointing out that the batting group needs more discipline in shot selection. Thanks to half-centuries from Abhishek Sharma and Heinrich Klaasen, SRH posted a competitive total of 195. The young pace attack, featuring Eshan Malinga, Sakib Hussain, Praful Hinge and Nitish Kumar Reddy, along with spinner Shivang Kumar, then successfully defended the score. Although Praful was expensive during the powerplay, the bowling group tightened things up in the latter stages to restrict CSK and seal a 10-run win. Speaking after the match, Ishan said he was pleased to see the young bowlers developing confidence and executing their plans. He emphasised the importance of backing them despite inexperience, noting their steady improvement in training sessions. “Lovely when you have a bunch of young bowlers coming up with their plans. Looking at them, look at them getting better day by day at training, you have to trust them,” said Kishan. Also Read - BCCI likely to extend Agarkar’s tenure as chief selector ahead of 2027 World Cup He also admitted the batting unit fell short by around 30–40 runs and stressed the need for smarter shot choices. Ishan added that the team is not focusing on the points table and prefers to take things one game at a time. "I felt we were 30-40 short, need to be a lot better in our shot selection. Not looking at the points table, need to keep our head down, we will take it one match at a time and see how it goes," he added. Player of the match Eshan, who took crucial wickets of CSK skipper Ruturaj Gaikwad, Matt Short and Sarfaraz Khan, also said during the post-match presentation, "Before the match we had a good plan, and we know the Hyderabad wicket, after 10 overs it reverses. Actually, Ishan was coming for me, he asking me - what kind of deliveries you are going to bowl. At the bowling crease, I decide what to bowl. The reverse is very important for me and the other bowlers. It's a good wicket-taking delivery." SRH has now jumped to fourth spot in the points table, with three wins and three losses.CSK is at the seventh spot, with two wins and four losses.CSK put SRH to bowl first, and half-centuries from Abhishek Sharma (59 in 22 balls, with six fours and four sixes) and Heinrich Klaasen (59 in 39 balls, with six fours and two sixes) took SRH to 194/9. During the run-chase of 195, CSK was in contention courtesy of knocks from Ayush Mhatre (30 in 13 balls, with five fours and a six), Matthew Short (34 in 30 balls, with three fours) and Sarfaraz Khan (25 in 16 balls, with three fours), but spells from Eshan (3/29), Nitish (2/31), Sakib Hussain (1/32) and Shivang Kumar (1/18) kept the pressure on CSK during the second half, leaving them 10 runs short. With inputs from agencies

Speaking after the match, Ishan said he was pleased to see the young bowlers developing confidence and executing their plans. He emphasised the importance of backing them despite inexperience, noting their steady improvement in training sessions.&nbsp;

'When you have a bunch of young bowlers': SRH skipper Ishan celebrates win over CSK

Ajit Agarkar, who currently chairs India’s senior men’s selection committee, is expected to receive an extension of about one year after his present term ends in June. According to indications from the Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI), the move is aimed at preserving continuity as the team prepares for a busy global calendar. If approved, his tenure would run through June 2027, covering a period in which India has enjoyed significant success, including multiple ICC trophy wins and a strong return to dominance in world cricket.&nbsp;As per a BCCI official quoted by The Indian Express, the transition under Agarkar has been smooth, with the selection group showing a willingness to take bold, results-driven calls.&nbsp;&nbsp;“Under Agarkar’s tenure, the team had a seamless transition and was fearless in taking bold decisions. The board felt he should continue. The BCCI officer bearers will be speaking to him on the sidelines of IPL games to update him," said BCCI official.&nbsp;Under Agarkar’s oversight, India ended a prolonged wait for major ICC silverware, winning back-to-back T20 World Cups in 2024 and 2026, along with the Champions Trophy.&nbsp;&nbsp;Also Read - <a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/-dekho-woh-aa-gaya-kolkata-knight-riders-welcome-matheesha-pathirana-to-squad-watch-1776574270862">IPL 2026 | KKR welcome Matheesha Pathirana to squad - Watch</a>&nbsp;The side also reached the final of the 2023 ODI World Cup on home soil, reinforcing its status as a consistent contender in white-ball cricket. With another ODI World Cup scheduled for next year, the BCCI reportedly views stability in selection leadership as an important factor.&nbsp;His period in charge has also coincided with a significant transition phase. Senior players such as Virat Kohli, Rohit Sharma and Ravichandran Ashwin have stepped away from Test cricket, prompting a reshaping of leadership across formats.&nbsp;&nbsp;Shubman Gill has taken over Test captaincy, while Suryakumar Yadav now leads the T20I side. Test results have been uneven, including a home defeat to South Africa and a 3-0 series loss to New Zealand, but the limited-overs teams have continued to perform strongly.

BCCI set to extend chief selector Ajit Agarkar’s contract until June 2027, aiming for continuity ahead of the next ODI World Cup amid a major team transition after multiple ICC titles.

Ajit Agarkar, who currently chairs India’s senior men’s selection committee, is expected to receive an extension of about one year after his present term ends in June. According to indications from the Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI), the move is aimed at preserving continuity as the team prepares for a busy global calendar. If approved, his tenure would run through June 2027, covering a period in which India has enjoyed significant success, including multiple ICC trophy wins and a strong return to dominance in world cricket. As per a BCCI official quoted by The Indian Express, the transition under Agarkar has been smooth, with the selection group showing a willingness to take bold, results-driven calls. “Under Agarkar’s tenure, the team had a seamless transition and was fearless in taking bold decisions. The board felt he should continue. The BCCI officer bearers will be speaking to him on the sidelines of IPL games to update him," said BCCI official. Under Agarkar’s oversight, India ended a prolonged wait for major ICC silverware, winning back-to-back T20 World Cups in 2024 and 2026, along with the Champions Trophy. Also Read - IPL 2026 | KKR welcome Matheesha Pathirana to squad - Watch The side also reached the final of the 2023 ODI World Cup on home soil, reinforcing its status as a consistent contender in white-ball cricket. With another ODI World Cup scheduled for next year, the BCCI reportedly views stability in selection leadership as an important factor. His period in charge has also coincided with a significant transition phase. Senior players such as Virat Kohli, Rohit Sharma and Ravichandran Ashwin have stepped away from Test cricket, prompting a reshaping of leadership across formats. Shubman Gill has taken over Test captaincy, while Suryakumar Yadav now leads the T20I side. Test results have been uneven, including a home defeat to South Africa and a 3-0 series loss to New Zealand, but the limited-overs teams have continued to perform strongly.

BCCI set to extend chief selector Ajit Agarkar’s contract until June 2027, aiming for continuity ahead of the next ODI World Cup amid a major team transition after multiple ICC titles.

BCCI likely to extend Agarkar’s tenure as chief selector ahead of 2027 World Cup

From Mohammad Rizwan to Virat Kohli, here's a look at the top five batters fastest to 2,000 runs in T20Is. This list also includes Babar Azam, Muhammad Waseem and Suryakumar Yadav

From Mohammad Rizwan to Virat Kohli, here's a look at the top five batters fastest to 2,000 runs in T20Is. This list also includes Babar Azam, Muhammad Waseem and Suryakumar Yadav

Meet top 5 batters fastest to 2,000 T20I runs

Sri Lanka’s star pacer Matheesha Pathirana has finally linked up with Kolkata Knight Riders, handing a much-needed lift to a team that has endured a difficult start to the Indian Premier League 2026 season. The franchise shared glimpses of the quick’s arrival across its social media platforms. KKR are currently at the bottom of the points table and will hope his presence can help them improve. Pathirana had been out of action after suffering a calf injury during the T20 World Cup 2026 earlier this year. Having completed his recovery, he has now passed Sri Lanka Cricket’s fitness tests and secured the necessary clearance to participate. The pacer has joined the squad ahead of their upcoming fixture against Rajasthan Royals on Sunday.<h2>Watch the video</h2>

<blockquote class="twitter-tweet" data-media-max-width="560">Dekho!! Dekho woh aa gaya 🥹 <a href="https://t.co/ha43j1DG2A">pic.twitter.com/ha43j1DG2A</a>&mdash; KolkataKnightRiders (@KKRiders) <a href="https://twitter.com/KKRiders/status/2045683354151068081?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">April 19, 2026</a></blockquote> <script async src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script>

<h2>When will he play?</h2>Even though Pathirana has joined the team, he may not play immediately. He will likely undergo a few practice sessions, allowing the medical staff to check his fitness before deciding. The right-arm quick, who was signed for INR 18 crore at the last IPL auction, had been anticipated to miss the early part of the season due to injury.&nbsp;&nbsp;Though there were initial expectations of his return before the clash with Gujarat Titans in Ahmedabad, his comeback has taken slightly longer than hoped.&nbsp;Also Read - <a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/who-won-yesterday-s-ipl-2026-match-between-sunrisers-hyderabad-vs-chennai-super-kings-check-result-1776572949567">Who won yesterday's IPL 2026 match between Sunrisers Hyderabad vs Chennai Super Kings? check result</a><h2>KKR’s struggles this season</h2>The team’s disappointing run so far has largely been due to an underperforming bowling attack. The unavailability of Mustafizur Rahman, combined with injuries to Harshit Rana and Akash Deep, has significantly weakened their pace resources. Meanwhile, Varun Chakravarthy has struggled for form, leaving Sunil Narine and Anukul Roy to carry the bulk of the spin duties.&nbsp;Led by Ajinkya Rahane, KKR have managed just a single point from six games, courtesy of a rain-hit encounter against Punjab Kings.&nbsp;

Matheesha Pathirana joins bottom-placed KKR after regaining fitness, as the team looks to strengthen its struggling bowling in IPL 2026.

Sri Lanka’s star pacer Matheesha Pathirana has finally linked up with Kolkata Knight Riders, handing a much-needed lift to a team that has endured a difficult start to the Indian Premier League 2026 season. The franchise shared glimpses of the quick’s arrival across its social media platforms. KKR are currently at the bottom of the points table and will hope his presence can help them improve. Pathirana had been out of action after suffering a calf injury during the T20 World Cup 2026 earlier this year. Having completed his recovery, he has now passed Sri Lanka Cricket’s fitness tests and secured the necessary clearance to participate. The pacer has joined the squad ahead of their upcoming fixture against Rajasthan Royals on Sunday. Watch the video

Matheesha Pathirana joins bottom-placed KKR after regaining fitness, as the team looks to strengthen its struggling bowling in IPL 2026.

IPL 2026 | Kolkata Knight Riders welcome Matheesha Pathirana to squad - Watch

Sunrisers Hyderabad climbed to fourth place in the Indian Premier League 2026 standings on Saturday (Apr 18) after edging past Chennai Super Kings by 10 runs at the Rajiv Gandhi International Stadium. The match went down to the final over, with Hyderabad holding their nerve to seal a narrow win. The result took SRH to six points from six games, while CSK remained seventh on the table. Batting first, Hyderabad put up an imposing 194/9, powered by a blistering 59 off 22 from Abhishek Sharma and a steady 59 off 39 by South African veteran Heinrich Klaasen.&nbsp;Chasing the target, Chennai suffered an early setback when opener Sanju Samson fell for just seven. Impact substitute Ayush Mhatre built some momentum with a rapid 30 off 13, but his promising knock was cut short by a sharp catch from Klaasen.&nbsp;Also Read - <a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/ipl-2026-updated-points-table-srh-enter-top-four-csk-stay-seventh-1776571379164">IPL 2026 updated points table: SRH enter top four, CSK stay seventh</a>&nbsp;Contributions from Matthew Short and Sarfaraz Khan kept the chase alive, yet Chennai struggled to rebuild after the early damage.&nbsp;Captain Ruturaj Gaikwad later pointed to the lack of solid partnerships during the middle overs as a key reason for the loss.&nbsp;With the ball, Hyderabad were led effectively by Eshan Malinga, who took three important wickets for 29, while, Nitish Kumar Reddy also delivered a valuable spell of 2/31 in four overs. Skipper Ishan Kishan credited the young bowling unit for defending what he felt was a slightly below-par total, praising their execution under pressure.&nbsp;&nbsp;Also Read - <a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/ipl-exclusive-gujarat-titans-luke-wood-underlines-key-to-success-says-middle-phase-will-decide-who-finishes-in-top-four-1776517088409">IPL Exclusive: Gujarat Titans star Luke Wood underlines key to success in IPL</a>&nbsp;Earlier in the innings, SRH’s openers Abhishek and Travis Head provided a strong start, putting on 75 runs in the powerplay. However, the momentum dipped briefly with quick dismissals of Head and Kishan, followed soon by Abhishek.&nbsp;&nbsp;Klaasen then anchored the innings before being dismissed by pacer Anshul Kamboj, who stood out for Chennai with figures of 3/22.&nbsp;CSK, one of the tournament’s most decorated sides, are still awaiting the return of MS Dhoni, who has yet to feature this season as he continues to recover from a calf injury.

IPL 2026: Sunrisers Hyderabad moved to fourth in the standings on Saturday (Apr 18) after a 10-run win over Chennai Super Kings at the Rajiv Gandhi International Stadium, while CSK remained seventh.

Sunrisers Hyderabad climbed to fourth place in the Indian Premier League 2026 standings on Saturday (Apr 18) after edging past Chennai Super Kings by 10 runs at the Rajiv Gandhi International Stadium. The match went down to the final over, with Hyderabad holding their nerve to seal a narrow win. The result took SRH to six points from six games, while CSK remained seventh on the table. Batting first, Hyderabad put up an imposing 194/9, powered by a blistering 59 off 22 from Abhishek Sharma and a steady 59 off 39 by South African veteran Heinrich Klaasen. Chasing the target, Chennai suffered an early setback when opener Sanju Samson fell for just seven. Impact substitute Ayush Mhatre built some momentum with a rapid 30 off 13, but his promising knock was cut short by a sharp catch from Klaasen. Also Read - IPL 2026 updated points table: SRH enter top four, CSK stay seventh Contributions from Matthew Short and Sarfaraz Khan kept the chase alive, yet Chennai struggled to rebuild after the early damage. Captain Ruturaj Gaikwad later pointed to the lack of solid partnerships during the middle overs as a key reason for the loss. With the ball, Hyderabad were led effectively by Eshan Malinga, who took three important wickets for 29, while, Nitish Kumar Reddy also delivered a valuable spell of 2/31 in four overs. Skipper Ishan Kishan credited the young bowling unit for defending what he felt was a slightly below-par total, praising their execution under pressure. Also Read - IPL Exclusive: Gujarat Titans star Luke Wood underlines key to success in IPL Earlier in the innings, SRH’s openers Abhishek and Travis Head provided a strong start, putting on 75 runs in the powerplay. However, the momentum dipped briefly with quick dismissals of Head and Kishan, followed soon by Abhishek. Klaasen then anchored the innings before being dismissed by pacer Anshul Kamboj, who stood out for Chennai with figures of 3/22. CSK, one of the tournament’s most decorated sides, are still awaiting the return of MS Dhoni, who has yet to feature this season as he continues to recover from a calf injury.

IPL 2026: Sunrisers Hyderabad moved to fourth in the standings on Saturday (Apr 18) after a 10-run win over Chennai Super Kings at the Rajiv Gandhi International Stadium, while CSK remained seventh.

Who won yesterday's IPL 2026 match between Sunrisers Hyderabad vs Chennai Super Kings? check result

The Indian Premier League 2026 standings after Match 27 highlight just how competitive the tournament has become. Punjab Kings hold the top spot with nine points from five matches and remain unbeaten. Royal Challengers Bengaluru and Rajasthan Royals are right behind them, each with eight points.&nbsp;Sunrisers Hyderabad have climbed to fourth place with six points, forming a tightly packed mid-table alongside Delhi Capitals and Gujarat Titans. On the other hand, Chennai Super Kings are struggling in seventh with only four points, while Kolkata Knight Riders remain at the bottom without a win.&nbsp;Also Read - <a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/ipl-2026-srh-clinch-final-over-thriller-to-down-csk-abhishek-sharma-shines-with-bat-srh-vs-csk-1776535499504">IPL 2026: Hyderabad clinch final-over thriller to down Chennai, Abhishek shines with bat</a>&nbsp;At Rajiv Gandhi International Stadium, Sunrisers Hyderabad secured a 10-run victory over Chennai Super Kings in a high-scoring clash. Strong performances from Abhishek Sharma, who scored 59 off 22 balls and Heinrich Klaasen, with 59 off 39, powered SRH to an imposing total of 194/9. Their aggressive approach in the powerplay laid a solid foundation, even as wickets fell at regular intervals later on.&nbsp;While, Chennai Super Kings started their chase positively, with Ayush Mhatre and Matthew Short contributing valuable runs. However, consistent wickets disrupted their momentum. Eshan Malinga led the bowling effort with three crucial dismissals, while Nitish Kumar Reddy added two more.&nbsp;Also Read -<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/bayern-munich-close-in-on-back-to-back-bundesliga-title-as-dortmund-lose-to-hoffenheim-1776527984294"> Bayern Munich close in on back-to-back Bundesliga title as Dortmund lose</a>&nbsp;Despite a late effort from the lower order, CSK finished at 184/8, falling short of the target. SRH held their composure in the closing overs to secure a vital win, lifting themselves into the top four and dealing another setback to CSK’s season.<h2>IPL 2026 Points Table after SRH vs CSK</h2>

<figure class="table"><table><tbody><tr><td>P</td><td>TEAM</td><td>M</td><td>W</td><td>L</td><td>NR</td><td>PTS</td><td>NRR</td></tr><tr><td>1.</td><td>Punjab Kings</td><td>5</td><td>4</td><td>0</td><td>1</td><td>9</td><td>1.067</td></tr><tr><td>2.</td><td>Royal Challengers Bengaluru</td><td>6</td><td>4</td><td>2</td><td>0</td><td>8</td><td>1.171</td></tr><tr><td>3.</td><td>Rajasthan Royals</td><td>5</td><td>4</td><td>1</td><td>0</td><td>8</td><td>0.889</td></tr><tr><td>4.</td><td>Sunrisers Hyderabad</td><td>6</td><td>3</td><td>3</td><td>0</td><td>6</td><td>0.566</td></tr><tr><td>5.</td><td>Delhi Capitals</td><td>5</td><td>3</td><td>2</td><td>0</td><td>6</td><td>0.310</td></tr><tr><td>6.</td><td>Gujarat Titans</td><td>5</td><td>3</td><td>2</td><td>0</td><td>6</td><td>0.018</td></tr><tr><td>7.</td><td>Chennai Super Kings</td><td>6</td><td>2</td><td>4</td><td>0</td><td>4</td><td>-0.780</td></tr><tr><td>8.</td><td>Lucknow Super Giants</td><td>5</td><td>2</td><td>3</td><td>0</td><td>4</td><td>-0.804</td></tr><tr><td>9.</td><td>Mumbai Indians</td><td>5</td><td>1</td><td>4</td><td>0</td><td>2</td><td>-1.076</td></tr><tr><td>10.</td><td>Kolkata Knight Riders</td><td>6</td><td>0</td><td>5</td><td>1</td><td>1</td><td>-1.149</td></tr></tbody></table></figure>

Here’s a look at the updated IPL 2026 points table after Ishan Kishan-led Sunrisers Hyderabad defeated Chennai Super King by 10 runs at the Rajiv Gandhi International Stadium

The Indian Premier League 2026 standings after Match 27 highlight just how competitive the tournament has become. Punjab Kings hold the top spot with nine points from five matches and remain unbeaten. Royal Challengers Bengaluru and Rajasthan Royals are right behind them, each with eight points. Sunrisers Hyderabad have climbed to fourth place with six points, forming a tightly packed mid-table alongside Delhi Capitals and Gujarat Titans. On the other hand, Chennai Super Kings are struggling in seventh with only four points, while Kolkata Knight Riders remain at the bottom without a win. Also Read - IPL 2026: Hyderabad clinch final-over thriller to down Chennai, Abhishek shines with bat At Rajiv Gandhi International Stadium, Sunrisers Hyderabad secured a 10-run victory over Chennai Super Kings in a high-scoring clash. Strong performances from Abhishek Sharma, who scored 59 off 22 balls and Heinrich Klaasen, with 59 off 39, powered SRH to an imposing total of 194/9. Their aggressive approach in the powerplay laid a solid foundation, even as wickets fell at regular intervals later on. While, Chennai Super Kings started their chase positively, with Ayush Mhatre and Matthew Short contributing valuable runs. However, consistent wickets disrupted their momentum. Eshan Malinga led the bowling effort with three crucial dismissals, while Nitish Kumar Reddy added two more. Also Read - Bayern Munich close in on back-to-back Bundesliga title as Dortmund lose Despite a late effort from the lower order, CSK finished at 184/8, falling short of the target. SRH held their composure in the closing overs to secure a vital win, lifting themselves into the top four and dealing another setback to CSK’s season. IPL 2026 Points Table after SRH vs CSK

Here’s a look at the updated IPL 2026 points table after Ishan Kishan-led Sunrisers Hyderabad defeated Chennai Super King by 10 runs at the Rajiv Gandhi International Stadium.

IPL 2026 updated points table: SRH enter top four, CSK stay seventh

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