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

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

Meet top 5 batters fastest to 6,000 T20 Runs

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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


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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Rajasthan Royals (RR) beat Lucknow Super Giants (LSG) by seven wickets in IPL 2026 match on Tuesday (May 19) in Jaipur and inched closer towards the final playoff spot. Chasing a total of 221, RR reached the target in 19.1 overs, thanks to Vaibhav Sooryavanshi's 38-ball 93. With the win, RR moved to fourth spot on the points table and a win in their last league game against Mumbai Indians (MI) will put them into the playoff over everybody else. LSG, which are already out of the contention, suffered ninth defeat in 13 games played with one more match left in the season for the them.Also Read - <a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/bbl-heads-to-chennai-for-season-opener-in-december-2026-in-historic-first-cricket-australia-green-signal-tnca-bcci-bbl-2026-december-1779201671358">BBL heads to Chennai for season opener in December 2026 in historic first</a><h2>Sooryavanshi dismantles LSG</h2>Chasing the 221-run target, Sooryavanshi and skipper Yashasvi Jaiswal started off the block really quickly and added 75 runs for the first wicket before Jaiswal was dismissed on 43 off 23 balls. The teen prodigy took over the next seven overs as RR smashed 105 runs in next 45 balls before Sooryavanshi was dismissed on 93 of 38 balls. Lhuan-dre Pretorius (7) could not bat as well as other RR batters but Dhruv Jurel (53 not out off 38) and Donovan Ferreira (16 not out off 10) took RR home in 19.1 overs.<h2>LSG batters do their part</h2>Batting first in Jaipur, LSG openers Mitchell Marsh and Josh Inglis added 109 runs for the first wicket in just 8.2 overs before Inglis was dismissed on 29-ball 60. Marsh kept going afterwards, adding 42 runs with Nicholas Pooran (16) for the second wicket and 64 runs for the third wicket with skipper Rishabh Pant (35 off 23). Marsh was eventually dismissed on the penultimate all of the innings on 96 off 57 balls as LSG finished at 220/5 in 20 overs.

Rajasthan Royals inched closer to a playoff spot with seven-wicket win over LSG in IPL 2026 on Tuesday (May 19) in Jaipur. Vaibhav Sooryavanshi's 38-ball 93 helped RR reach 221-run target in 19.1 overs.

Rajasthan Royals (RR) beat Lucknow Super Giants (LSG) by seven wickets in IPL 2026 match on Tuesday (May 19) in Jaipur and inched closer towards the final playoff spot. Chasing a total of 221, RR reached the target in 19.1 overs, thanks to Vaibhav Sooryavanshi's 38-ball 93. With the win, RR moved to fourth spot on the points table and a win in their last league game against Mumbai Indians (MI) will put them into the playoff over everybody else. LSG, which are already out of the contention, suffered ninth defeat in 13 games played with one more match left in the season for the them. Also Read - BBL heads to Chennai for season opener in December 2026 in historic first Sooryavanshi dismantles LSG Chasing the 221-run target, Sooryavanshi and skipper Yashasvi Jaiswal started off the block really quickly and added 75 runs for the first wicket before Jaiswal was dismissed on 43 off 23 balls. The teen prodigy took over the next seven overs as RR smashed 105 runs in next 45 balls before Sooryavanshi was dismissed on 93 of 38 balls. Lhuan-dre Pretorius (7) could not bat as well as other RR batters but Dhruv Jurel (53 not out off 38) and Donovan Ferreira (16 not out off 10) took RR home in 19.1 overs. LSG batters do their part Batting first in Jaipur, LSG openers Mitchell Marsh and Josh Inglis added 109 runs for the first wicket in just 8.2 overs before Inglis was dismissed on 29-ball 60. Marsh kept going afterwards, adding 42 runs with Nicholas Pooran (16) for the second wicket and 64 runs for the third wicket with skipper Rishabh Pant (35 off 23). Marsh was eventually dismissed on the penultimate all of the innings on 96 off 57 balls as LSG finished at 220/5 in 20 overs.

Rajasthan Royals inched closer to a playoff spot with seven-wicket win over LSG in IPL 2026 on Tuesday (May 19) in Jaipur. Vaibhav Sooryavanshi's 38-ball 93 helped RR reach 221-run target in 19.1 overs.

Who won yesterday's IPL 2026 match between Rajasthan Royals vs Lucknow Super Giants? Check result

Vaibhav Sooryavanshi brought his A-game on the day his team needed him the most and helped them inch one step closer to the IPL 2026 playoffs. Chasing 221 against the Lucknow Super Giants (LSG), the Rajasthan Royals completed the target with five wickets and as many balls remaining, jumping to the fourth spot on the points table with 14 points from 13 matches. Sooryavanshi smashed a match-winning 93 off just 38 balls, including 10 sixes, with Dhruv Jurel scoring an unbeaten and impressive 53 to see his team home.

<blockquote class="twitter-tweet">Joy and jubilation in Jaipur 🩷🥳 A statement chase from <a href="https://twitter.com/rajasthanroyals?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@rajasthanroyals</a> sees them jump back into the 🔝4️⃣ 👏 Scorecard ▶️ <a href="https://t.co/LvQzM3tl06">https://t.co/LvQzM3tl06</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/RRvLSG?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#RRvLSG</a> <a href="https://t.co/7lJD2IYOUF">pic.twitter.com/7lJD2IYOUF</a>&mdash; IndianPremierLeague (@IPL) <a href="https://twitter.com/IPL/status/2056798555256565874?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">May 19, 2026</a></blockquote> <script async src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script>

The Royals won the toss and elected to field first, with Yashasvi Jaiswal captaining his IPL franchise for the first time. Regular captain Riyan Parag missed the game due to an injury, while the hosts were also without ace all-rounder Ravindra Jadeja.&nbsp;Also read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/it-was-gruesome-there-was-nothing-left-in-tank-virat-kohli-on-leaving-test-captaincy-rift-with-sourav-ganguly-most-successful-india-test-captain-1779203786382">'It was gruesome, there was nothing left in tank': Virat Kohli on leaving Test captaincy</a> &nbsp;LSG openers, Mitchell Marsh and Josh Inglis, began brilliantly, with the pair adding 104 for the first wicket inside nine overs. Nicholas Pooran and Marsh added 42 for the second wicket before captain Rishabh Pant joined the lanky Aussie in the middle, continuing the carnage. Three wickets in the last over did a wonderful job for the Royals, as LSG lost Pant (35), Marsh (96) and Ayush Badoni (0), restricting the visitors to 220 for five.<h3>Vaibhav’s day out in Jaipur</h3>Winless at their home venue this season, the Royals needed to turn the tables around quickly and did it in style. With Jaiswal and Vaibhav at the top, RR guaranteed a blistering start, and neither disappointed. The pair stitched a 75-run stand for the first wicket before Akash Singh accounted for the stand-in captain on 43.&nbsp; &nbsp;It was then that Vaibhav decided to open his arms and take the attack to the opposition. Alongside Jurel, the left-handed prodigy broke LSG’s momentum with monster overs, including smashing 29 off Mayank Yadav’s third. Jurel wasn’t going to sit silent and joined the Orange Cap holder in putting LSG’s backs against the wall. &nbsp;They almost put RR closer to the winning position, but lost Sooryavanshi on 93 to Mohsin Khan. Another quick wicket slowed RR’s pace, but Jurel and Donovan Ferreira rescued them and helped them complete the run chase.

Vaibhav Sooryavanshi’s explosive 93 off 38 balls powers Rajasthan Royals to a seven-wicket win over LSG, pushing RR closer to the IPL 2026 playoffs.

Vaibhav Sooryavanshi brought his A-game on the day his team needed him the most and helped them inch one step closer to the IPL 2026 playoffs. Chasing 221 against the Lucknow Super Giants (LSG), the Rajasthan Royals completed the target with five wickets and as many balls remaining, jumping to the fourth spot on the points table with 14 points from 13 matches. Sooryavanshi smashed a match-winning 93 off just 38 balls, including 10 sixes, with Dhruv Jurel scoring an unbeaten and impressive 53 to see his team home.

Vaibhav Sooryavanshi’s explosive 93 off 38 balls powers Rajasthan Royals to a seven-wicket win over LSG, pushing RR closer to the IPL 2026 playoffs.

RR vs LSG: Sooryavanshi's carnage puts RR one step closer to IPL 2026 playoff spot

Virat Kohli is India’s most successful Test captain, having won 40 out of 68 Tests he led the country in. The historic Test series win in Australia was the highlight of his decorated Test captaincy tenure, which lasted over seven years.&nbsp;Since taking over the Test captaincy from MS Dhoni in December 2014, Kohli and then head coach Ravi Shastri’s partnership transformed India into an unbeatable Test side. However, as all good things come to an end, so did Kohli’s run as the Indian Test captain, but what led to that, the cricket giant revealed in his latest conversations. &nbsp;Kohli relinquished his white-ball captaincy midway through the 2021 season, while announcing his decision to step aside as a leader in Tests after a series loss to South Africa in January 2022. His social media post (on leaving Test captaincy) broke the internet, with the BCCI replacing him with Rohit Sharma as an all-format captain. Although all kinds of rumours, including a tiff with then BCCI President and former Indian captain Sourav Ganguly, made headlines, years later, the champion batter has opened up about the profound burnout he experienced behind the scenes.&nbsp;Also read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/bbl-heads-to-chennai-for-season-opener-in-december-2026-in-historic-first-cricket-australia-green-signal-tnca-bcci-bbl-2026-december-1779201671358">BBL heads to Chennai for season opener in December 2026 in historic first</a> &nbsp;Speaking at the RCB Innovation Lab’s Indian Sports Summit on Tuesday (May 19), Kohli said captaining India across formats and expectations to deliver each time, with the bat and leadership, consumed him completely, while leaving him with no option to free himself from such responsibilities. &nbsp;“I ended up being in a place where I became the focal point of our batting unit. And then I became the focal point of leadership. I didn’t realise how much of a load both those things will present in my daily life, to be honest.&nbsp; &nbsp;“But because I was so driven and motivated to just make sure that Indian cricket stays on top, I didn’t really pay attention to it. And that’s precisely why by the time I left captaincy, I was completely spent. Like there was nothing left in the tank to give. And I was completely consumed by it. So, yes, it was gruesome,” Kohli said. &nbsp;“It was difficult to manage expectations of, okay, if you win, you don’t score runs, then you’re asked about your performances. And if you perform and you don’t win, you’re asked about the results. So I was always juggling between the two and trying to manage as best as I could,” he continued. &nbsp;Meanwhile, Kohli has since retired from the T20Is (2024) and Tests (2025), and only features in the 50-over format for India. Elsewhere, he plies his trade in the Indian Premier League (IPL) for the defending champions, Royal Challengers Bengaluru (RCB). Currently, his IPL team is among the three sides already qualified for the IPL 2026 playoffs.

"There was nothing left in the tank." Virat Kohli makes an emotional, raw revelation about the "gruesome" mental toll that led him to quit India's Test captaincy.

Virat Kohli is India’s most successful Test captain, having won 40 out of 68 Tests he led the country in. The historic Test series win in Australia was the highlight of his decorated Test captaincy tenure, which lasted over seven years. Since taking over the Test captaincy from MS Dhoni in December 2014, Kohli and then head coach Ravi Shastri’s partnership transformed India into an unbeatable Test side. However, as all good things come to an end, so did Kohli’s run as the Indian Test captain, but what led to that, the cricket giant revealed in his latest conversations. Kohli relinquished his white-ball captaincy midway through the 2021 season, while announcing his decision to step aside as a leader in Tests after a series loss to South Africa in January 2022. His social media post (on leaving Test captaincy) broke the internet, with the BCCI replacing him with Rohit Sharma as an all-format captain. Although all kinds of rumours, including a tiff with then BCCI President and former Indian captain Sourav Ganguly, made headlines, years later, the champion batter has opened up about the profound burnout he experienced behind the scenes. Also read | BBL heads to Chennai for season opener in December 2026 in historic first Speaking at the RCB Innovation Lab’s Indian Sports Summit on Tuesday (May 19), Kohli said captaining India across formats and expectations to deliver each time, with the bat and leadership, consumed him completely, while leaving him with no option to free himself from such responsibilities. “I ended up being in a place where I became the focal point of our batting unit. And then I became the focal point of leadership. I didn’t realise how much of a load both those things will present in my daily life, to be honest. “But because I was so driven and motivated to just make sure that Indian cricket stays on top, I didn’t really pay attention to it. And that’s precisely why by the time I left captaincy, I was completely spent. Like there was nothing left in the tank to give. And I was completely consumed by it. So, yes, it was gruesome,” Kohli said. “It was difficult to manage expectations of, okay, if you win, you don’t score runs, then you’re asked about your performances. And if you perform and you don’t win, you’re asked about the results. So I was always juggling between the two and trying to manage as best as I could,” he continued. Meanwhile, Kohli has since retired from the T20Is (2024) and Tests (2025), and only features in the 50-over format for India. Elsewhere, he plies his trade in the Indian Premier League (IPL) for the defending champions, Royal Challengers Bengaluru (RCB). Currently, his IPL team is among the three sides already qualified for the IPL 2026 playoffs.

"There was nothing left in the tank." Virat Kohli makes an emotional, raw revelation about the "gruesome" mental toll that led him to quit India's Test captaincy.

'It was gruesome, there was nothing left in tank': Virat Kohli on leaving Test captaincy

The Big Bash League (BBL) will have its 2026 season opener played in December at the MA Chidambaram Stadium in Chennai, the home venue for the Chennai Super Kings (CSK) in the IPL, in a historic first. Cricket Australia (CA) is said to have received positive feedback from the state board (TNCA) and the BCCI to play the first game of BBL 16 at Chepauk in India.&nbsp;On Monday (May 18), a five-member CA delegation attended CSK’s last home game of the season against SunRisers Hyderabad (SRH) for a venue recce. The latest reports claim that they are working closely with the Australian government to materialise this deal. The BCCI president, Mithun Manas, was also present at the venue during the game. Reports suggest some final discussions are pending at the top level before locking this.<h3>Logistical and Weather Hurdles</h3>Hosting just one game thousands of miles away comes with its own set of challenges. Distance, tiredness and preparation time are significant ones. There is no direct flight from Australia to Chennai, and all players and staff members involved would have to take connecting flights for this proposed idea. While it takes around 11 to 12 hours from Melbourne to Delhi and Sydney to Bengaluru, the connecting flight (to reach Chennai) would take around 13 hours one way.&nbsp;Also read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/has-ms-dhoni-retired-from-ipl-thala-takes-lap-of-honour-in-csk-s-last-home-game-of-ipl-2026-1779168752883">One last time? MS Dhoni's 'lap of honour' in CSK's last home game of IPL 2026 sparks retirement buzz - WATCH</a> &nbsp;The players, however, would need recovery time upon returning before their next scheduled game. &nbsp;Meanwhile, Chennai is also prone to flooding during December due to the wet season. &nbsp;Whether the BBL 16 opener will be played in the daytime remains to be seen, as day games are better for the Australian audience back home. While afternoon games (in India) are telecast at around 8 PM AEST, the evening games (8 PM IST start) usually start at midnight Down Under.<h3>Interested Teams</h3>While Cricket Australia is yet to announce this season’s schedule, a few of the BBL teams, including the Sydney Thunder and the two Melbourne clubs (Stars and Renegades), are among those interested in travelling to Chennai for the season opener next edition.&nbsp; &nbsp;In that case, Chennai would be ‘home’ to one of the two participating teams, reducing their home matches (back home) to six.

History in the making! Cricket Australia gets the green light from the BCCI to host the historic BBL 16 season opener at Chennai's iconic Chepauk this December.

The Big Bash League (BBL) will have its 2026 season opener played in December at the MA Chidambaram Stadium in Chennai, the home venue for the Chennai Super Kings (CSK) in the IPL, in a historic first. Cricket Australia (CA) is said to have received positive feedback from the state board (TNCA) and the BCCI to play the first game of BBL 16 at Chepauk in India. On Monday (May 18), a five-member CA delegation attended CSK’s last home game of the season against SunRisers Hyderabad (SRH) for a venue recce. The latest reports claim that they are working closely with the Australian government to materialise this deal. The BCCI president, Mithun Manas, was also present at the venue during the game. Reports suggest some final discussions are pending at the top level before locking this. Logistical and Weather Hurdles Hosting just one game thousands of miles away comes with its own set of challenges. Distance, tiredness and preparation time are significant ones. There is no direct flight from Australia to Chennai, and all players and staff members involved would have to take connecting flights for this proposed idea. While it takes around 11 to 12 hours from Melbourne to Delhi and Sydney to Bengaluru, the connecting flight (to reach Chennai) would take around 13 hours one way. Also read | One last time? MS Dhoni's 'lap of honour' in CSK's last home game of IPL 2026 sparks retirement buzz - WATCH The players, however, would need recovery time upon returning before their next scheduled game. Meanwhile, Chennai is also prone to flooding during December due to the wet season. Whether the BBL 16 opener will be played in the daytime remains to be seen, as day games are better for the Australian audience back home. While afternoon games (in India) are telecast at around 8 PM AEST, the evening games (8 PM IST start) usually start at midnight Down Under. Interested Teams While Cricket Australia is yet to announce this season’s schedule, a few of the BBL teams, including the Sydney Thunder and the two Melbourne clubs (Stars and Renegades), are among those interested in travelling to Chennai for the season opener next edition. In that case, Chennai would be ‘home’ to one of the two participating teams, reducing their home matches (back home) to six.

History in the making! Cricket Australia gets the green light from the BCCI to host the historic BBL 16 season opener at Chennai's iconic Chepauk this December.

BBL heads to Chennai for season opener in December 2026 in historic first

Pakistan batting mainstay and gloveman, Mohammad Rizwan, was involved in a heated exchange with senior Bangladeshi campaigner Litton Das on day four of the ongoing second Test in Sylhet. On the fifth ball of the 72nd over, when Rizwan complained about the movement in front of the sightscreen, Das, keeping wickets, interfered and asked Rizwan about the problem. As Rizwan began explaining, the discussion turned into a heated exchange, with the on-field umpires intervening immediately. Even though they succeeded in ending that verbal throwdown, Das' fellow Bangladeshi players began trolling Rizwan after the over, taunting him with a dialogue from a Bollywood movie.&nbsp;Batting on an unbeaten 53, with his ODI captain, Salman Ali Agha, at the other end, also batting closer to his fifty (46), Rizwan and Das were back taking shots at each other, with the conversation turning ugly seconds later.&nbsp;Also read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/rishabh-pant-loses-odi-spot-test-vice-captaincy-as-bcci-picks-india-squad-for-afghanistan-series-ind-vs-afg-2026-team-announcement-1779190803615">Axed! Rishabh Pant loses ODI spot, Test vice-captaincy as BCCI picks India squad for Afghanistan series</a> &nbsp;In a dramatic turn of events, Das wasn’t amused with Rizwan’s ploy of halting play or breaking Bangladesh’s momentum. Upon asking what the matter was and receiving, ‘See, someone is standing there (in front of the sightscreen)’ as an answer, Das taunted, saying, ‘Now that he has scored a fifty, he will start with his overacting.’<h3>WATCH VIDEO –</h3>

<blockquote class="twitter-tweet">On-field exchange between Mohammad Rizwan and Liton Das during the match: The incident occurred when Rizwan raised a concern regarding the sight screen. Liton Das intervened, leading to a brief verbal exchange between the two players. What was said: - Liton Das: “What are you… <a href="https://t.co/BfJQWqMMLa">pic.twitter.com/BfJQWqMMLa</a>&mdash; Haral (@FakharHaral) <a href="https://twitter.com/FakharHaral/status/2056700730862624826?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">May 19, 2026</a></blockquote> <script async src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script>

Meanwhile, Rizwan immediately walked towards the square leg umpire, who rushed to the spot to defuse the situation. Firstly, he calmed Rizwan down over his reaction, and then went to Das, asking him to maintain composure and resume the match proceedings. &nbsp;After the over, Bangladeshi fielders standing closer to Rizwan began taunting him for his antics, calling out his overacting, something he is famously known for, saying, ‘he should be deducted fifty rupees for his overacting,’ referring to a dialogue from the comedy Bollywood movie ‘Welcome.’<h3>Here is the clip -</h3>

<blockquote class="twitter-tweet">Bangladesh players are saying to Rizwan &quot; Hum es over acting ka fifty pesy katain gaay &quot; 😄😄😄<a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/PAKvBAN?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#PAKvBAN</a> <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/BANvPAK?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#BANvPAK</a> <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/BabarAzam?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#BabarAzam</a> <a href="https://t.co/ZW0ZkuDGQY">pic.twitter.com/ZW0ZkuDGQY</a>&mdash; Fourth Umpire (@UmpireFourth) <a href="https://twitter.com/UmpireFourth/status/2056685915825754390?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">May 19, 2026</a></blockquote> <script async src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script>

Meanwhile, Rizwan stands between Bangladesh and a historic series whitewash of Pakistan at home, with the visitors needing 121 runs with just three wickets remaining. Chasing 437, Pakistan’s scorecard at stumps on day four reads 316/7, with Rizwan (75*) and spinner Sajid Khan (8*) at the crease. &nbsp;Bangladesh won the first Test in Dhaka by 104 runs, inflicting a 104-run beating on Pakistan for the first time in their cricket history.

High drama in Sylhet! Watch Litton Das and Bangladesh players brutally troll Mohammad Rizwan for "overacting" during a heated Day 4 exchange.

Pakistan batting mainstay and gloveman, Mohammad Rizwan, was involved in a heated exchange with senior Bangladeshi campaigner Litton Das on day four of the ongoing second Test in Sylhet. On the fifth ball of the 72nd over, when Rizwan complained about the movement in front of the sightscreen, Das, keeping wickets, interfered and asked Rizwan about the problem. As Rizwan began explaining, the discussion turned into a heated exchange, with the on-field umpires intervening immediately. Even though they succeeded in ending that verbal throwdown, Das' fellow Bangladeshi players began trolling Rizwan after the over, taunting him with a dialogue from a Bollywood movie. Batting on an unbeaten 53, with his ODI captain, Salman Ali Agha, at the other end, also batting closer to his fifty (46), Rizwan and Das were back taking shots at each other, with the conversation turning ugly seconds later. Also read | Axed! Rishabh Pant loses ODI spot, Test vice-captaincy as BCCI picks India squad for Afghanistan series In a dramatic turn of events, Das wasn’t amused with Rizwan’s ploy of halting play or breaking Bangladesh’s momentum. Upon asking what the matter was and receiving, ‘See, someone is standing there (in front of the sightscreen)’ as an answer, Das taunted, saying, ‘Now that he has scored a fifty, he will start with his overacting.’ WATCH VIDEO –

High drama in Sylhet! Watch Litton Das and Bangladesh players brutally troll Mohammad Rizwan for "overacting" during a heated Day 4 exchange.

‘Cut 50 for overacting’: Bangladesh players troll Rizwan after his heated exchange with Litton Das – WATCH

IPL’s most expensive player and former Test vice-captain, Rishabh Pant, suffered the heaviest blow in the latest India squad announcement for the forthcoming Afghanistan series. Not only did he lose his One-Day spot to in-form Ishan Kishan, but he also lost his Test vice-captaincy to KL Rahul, with the BCCI announcing two squads on Tuesday (May 19) evening.<h3>India Test squad vs Afghanistan</h3>Shubman Gill (captain), Yashasvi Jaiswal, KL Rahul (vc), Sai Sudharsan, Rishabh Pant, Devdutt Padikkal, Nitish Kumar Reddy, Washington Sundar, Kuldeep Yadav, Mohammed Siraj, Prasidh Krishna, Manav Suthar, Gurnoor Brar, Harsh Dubey, Dhruv Jurel<h3>India ODI squad vs Afghanistan</h3>Shubman Gill (captain), Rohit Sharma, Virat Kohli, Shreyas Iyer (vc), KL Rahul, Ishan Kishan, Hardik Pandya, Nitish Kumar Reddy, Washington Sundar, Kuldeep Yadav, Arshdeep Singh, Prasidh Krishna, Prince Yadav, Gurnoor Brar and Harsh Dubey

<blockquote class="twitter-tweet">🚨 News 🚨 Presenting <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/TeamIndia?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#TeamIndia</a>&#39;s squads for the <a href="https://twitter.com/IDFCFIRSTBank?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@IDFCFIRSTBank</a> Test match and the 3️⃣-match ODI series against Afghanistan in June 🙌<a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/INDvAFG?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#INDvAFG</a> <a href="https://t.co/hFiABALLld">pic.twitter.com/hFiABALLld</a>&mdash; BCCI (@BCCI) <a href="https://twitter.com/BCCI/status/2056693054799765814?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">May 19, 2026</a></blockquote> <script async src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script>

While batting stalwarts Virat Kohli and Rohit Sharma are back donning the One-Day colours, seamers Prince Yadav and Gurnoor Brar, alongside spinner Harsh Dubey, have earned their maiden ODI call-ups. Gurnoor and Dubey have also been included in the 15-man Test squad, with fellow slow left-arm orthodox Manav Suthar also earning his debut India Test call-up.&nbsp;Also read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/has-ms-dhoni-retired-from-ipl-thala-takes-lap-of-honour-in-csk-s-last-home-game-of-ipl-2026-1779168752883">One last time? MS Dhoni's 'lap of honour' in CSK's last home game of IPL 2026 sparks retirement buzz - WATCH</a> &nbsp;Ace quick Jasprit Bumrah has been rested for India’s first international series since losing to South Africa (0-2) at home in November last year. &nbsp;Barring Bumrah, the other notable omissions include the left-arm all-rounder pair of Ravindra Jadeja and Axar Patel and pacer Akash Deep, who continues to recover from an injury. Of those who featured when India last played an ODI series (against NZ in Jan 2026), seamers Mohammed Siraj and Harshit Rana, all-rounder Ayush Badoni and keeper Dhruv Jurel have all missed the cut for the three One-Dayers against Afghanistan. Jadeja and Rana are also recovering from respective injuries. &nbsp;On the other hand, Kishan and Hardik Pandya have returned to the ODI setup, with Shreyas Iyer continuing in his role as Gill’s deputy in the 50-over format. &nbsp;Among the batters, opener Yashasvi Jaiswal is dropped from the ODI squad, with domestic giant Devdutt Padikkal returning to the Test side. &nbsp;India will host Afghanistan for a one-off Test in New Chandigarh on June 6, with the three ODIs to follow on 14, 17 and 20.

Rishabh Pant dropped from ODIs and loses Test vice-captaincy as BCCI names India squads for Afghanistan series. Bumrah rested; Kohli & Rohit return.

IPL’s most expensive player and former Test vice-captain, Rishabh Pant, suffered the heaviest blow in the latest India squad announcement for the forthcoming Afghanistan series. Not only did he lose his One-Day spot to in-form Ishan Kishan, but he also lost his Test vice-captaincy to KL Rahul, with the BCCI announcing two squads on Tuesday (May 19) evening. India Test squad vs Afghanistan Shubman Gill (captain), Yashasvi Jaiswal, KL Rahul (vc), Sai Sudharsan, Rishabh Pant, Devdutt Padikkal, Nitish Kumar Reddy, Washington Sundar, Kuldeep Yadav, Mohammed Siraj, Prasidh Krishna, Manav Suthar, Gurnoor Brar, Harsh Dubey, Dhruv Jurel India ODI squad vs Afghanistan Shubman Gill (captain), Rohit Sharma, Virat Kohli, Shreyas Iyer (vc), KL Rahul, Ishan Kishan, Hardik Pandya, Nitish Kumar Reddy, Washington Sundar, Kuldeep Yadav, Arshdeep Singh, Prasidh Krishna, Prince Yadav, Gurnoor Brar and Harsh Dubey

Rishabh Pant dropped from ODIs and loses Test vice-captaincy as BCCI names India squads for Afghanistan series. Bumrah rested; Kohli &amp; Rohit return.

Axed! Rishabh Pant loses ODI spot, Test vice-captaincy as BCCI picks India squad for Afghanistan series

Chennai Super Kings (CSK) played their last home game of the IPL 2026 on Monday (May 18) and veteran superstar MS Dhoni accompanied the team for the first time this season at the ground. Dhoni, who has been recovering from an injury, hasn't played a single game in the ongoing season for CSK and they have only one more match left in the league stage. The 44-year-old has not retired officially from the league but did take a lap of honour at the Chepauk for fans, hinting at the possibility of great 'Thala' being at CSK home for the last time.Also Check - <a href="https://www.wionews.com/photos/ipl-2026-race-of-playoffs-7-matches-5-teams-1-spot-what-rr-csk-pbks-kkr-and-dc-need-to-make-it-to-top-four-1779161445366">IPL 2026 Race of Playoffs | 7 matches, 5 teams, 1 spot: All scenarios explained</a><h2>Has MS Dhoni retired from IPL?</h2>There's no official word on if MS Dhoni has decided to hang his boots from IPL and CSK, something he has been part of since inaugural season of 2008. Under Dhoni, CSK has won five titles - joint-most alongside Mumbai Indians. While Dhoni has reduced his role in the CSK playing XI and gave the captaincy to Ruturaj Gaikwad while Sanju Samson handled the wicketkeeping duties this season, he continues to be an icon of the franchise and most beloved cricketer in Chennai. After CSK's last home game at Chepauk in IPL 2026 o Monday (May 18), Dhoni did take a lap of honour for fans who have supported him over the years. Have a look at the video below:

<blockquote class="twitter-tweet" data-media-max-width="560">The special bond between <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/CSK?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#CSK</a> and the home fans celebrated with a lap of honour 💛<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/CSKvSRH?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#CSKvSRH</a> | <a href="https://twitter.com/ChennaiIPL?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@ChennaiIPL</a> <a href="https://t.co/yIHpoaIG4r">pic.twitter.com/yIHpoaIG4r</a>&mdash; IndianPremierLeague (@IPL) <a href="https://twitter.com/IPL/status/2056454581765476544?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">May 18, 2026</a></blockquote> <script async src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script>

<h2>What CSK coach Stephen Fleming said about Dhoni returning next year?</h2>Speaking after the match, CSK coach Stephen Fleming was asked about if has talked to Dhoni returning for one more IPL season, to which he replied: "No, we're working through this one."CSK last won the title in 2023 with Dhoni has captain and he had said that he likes to play for a couple or more seasons for the fans. His age and injury concerns have not helped his case if Monday was the last time Dhoni was at Chepauk, it surely was a memorable farewell for the fans to celebrate their ‘Thala.’

44-year-old Dhoni has not played a singled game in IPL 2026 but took a lap of honour after CSK's last home game of IPL 2026 on Monday (May 18), sparking retirement buzz for Thala.

Chennai Super Kings (CSK) played their last home game of the IPL 2026 on Monday (May 18) and veteran superstar MS Dhoni accompanied the team for the first time this season at the ground. Dhoni, who has been recovering from an injury, hasn't played a single game in the ongoing season for CSK and they have only one more match left in the league stage. The 44-year-old has not retired officially from the league but did take a lap of honour at the Chepauk for fans, hinting at the possibility of great 'Thala' being at CSK home for the last time. Also Check - IPL 2026 Race of Playoffs | 7 matches, 5 teams, 1 spot: All scenarios explained Has MS Dhoni retired from IPL? There's no official word on if MS Dhoni has decided to hang his boots from IPL and CSK, something he has been part of since inaugural season of 2008. Under Dhoni, CSK has won five titles - joint-most alongside Mumbai Indians. While Dhoni has reduced his role in the CSK playing XI and gave the captaincy to Ruturaj Gaikwad while Sanju Samson handled the wicketkeeping duties this season, he continues to be an icon of the franchise and most beloved cricketer in Chennai. After CSK's last home game at Chepauk in IPL 2026 o Monday (May 18), Dhoni did take a lap of honour for fans who have supported him over the years. Have a look at the video below:

44-year-old Dhoni has not played a singled game in IPL 2026 but took a lap of honour after CSK's last home game of IPL 2026 on Monday (May 18), sparking retirement buzz for Thala.

One last time? MS Dhoni's 'lap of honour' in CSK's last home game of IPL 2026 sparks retirement buzz - WATCH

Only RR, if they win their remaining two matches, can make it to the IPL 2026 playoffs without anyone's help while DC, KKR, PBKS, and CSK need other result go their way despite winning their remaining matches to make it to the playoffs.

Only RR, if they win their remaining two matches, can make it to the IPL 2026 playoffs without anyone's help while DC, KKR, PBKS, and CSK need other result go their way despite winning their remaining matches to make it to the playoffs.

IPL 2026 Race to Playoffs | 7 matches, 5 teams, 1 spot: What RR, CSK, PBKS, KKR and DC need to make it to top four?

SunRisers Hyderabad (SRH) beat Chennai Super Kings (CSK) by five wickets in IPL 2026 match on Monday (May 18) and book a place in the playoffs. Chasing a modest 181 at the iconic Chepauk in Chennai, Ishan Kishan led SRH's charge with 47-ball 70 as the team reached the target in 19 overs. With the win, SRH's eighth in 13 matches, they got to 16 points and secured a place in the top four. CSK, on the other hand, suffered seventh defeat in 13 games and their chances to qualify for the playoffs took a hit. The five-time champions, however, are still in contention and vying for the final place with four other teams - Punjab Kings, Delhi Capitals, Rajasthan Royals, and Kolkata Knight Riders.Also Read - <a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/-ipl-over-test-cricket-michael-vaughan-makes-big-claim-on-jofra-archer-1779117813462">'IPL over Test Cricket'? Michael Vaughan makes big claim on Jofra Archer</a><h2>Kishan, Klaasen take SRH into playoffs</h2>Chasing 181, SRH lost dashing opener Travis Head (6) in the third over and his partner Abhishek Sharma (26) in the eighth over. At 56/2, CSK had an opening but Kishan and Heinrich Klaasen added 75 runs for the third wicket to allay any fears whatsoever. SRH did face a wobble for a bit with Klaasen (47) and Nitish Kumar Reddy (11) being dismissed in space of 16 balls and 22 runs but Kishan stood tall and by the time he was dismissed for 75 in the 19th over, SRH were just five short of the victory which they made at the completion of 19th over mark.<h2>CSK batters fall short again</h2>Batting first in the last home of the season, CSK lost Sanju Samson (27) and Urvil Patel (13) inside powerplay and finished the first six overs at 57/2. Skipper Ruturaj Gaikwad (15) and Kartik Sharma (32) added 42 runs for the third wicket before both of them departed in space of 11 balls and 10 runs as CSK were left dwindling at 100/4 in the 12th over. Dewald Brevis (44), Shivam Dube (26) then added 59 runs for the fifth wicket and Prashant Veer chipped in with 11 in the end as CSK finished at 180/7 in 20 overs.

SRH qualified for the IPL 2026 qualifiers with a five-wicket win over CSK on Monday (May 18). The five-time champions, however, are still in race for the final place in top four along with PBKS, RR, DC, and KKR.

SunRisers Hyderabad (SRH) beat Chennai Super Kings (CSK) by five wickets in IPL 2026 match on Monday (May 18) and book a place in the playoffs. Chasing a modest 181 at the iconic Chepauk in Chennai, Ishan Kishan led SRH's charge with 47-ball 70 as the team reached the target in 19 overs. With the win, SRH's eighth in 13 matches, they got to 16 points and secured a place in the top four. CSK, on the other hand, suffered seventh defeat in 13 games and their chances to qualify for the playoffs took a hit. The five-time champions, however, are still in contention and vying for the final place with four other teams - Punjab Kings, Delhi Capitals, Rajasthan Royals, and Kolkata Knight Riders. Also Read - 'IPL over Test Cricket'? Michael Vaughan makes big claim on Jofra Archer Kishan, Klaasen take SRH into playoffs Chasing 181, SRH lost dashing opener Travis Head (6) in the third over and his partner Abhishek Sharma (26) in the eighth over. At 56/2, CSK had an opening but Kishan and Heinrich Klaasen added 75 runs for the third wicket to allay any fears whatsoever. SRH did face a wobble for a bit with Klaasen (47) and Nitish Kumar Reddy (11) being dismissed in space of 16 balls and 22 runs but Kishan stood tall and by the time he was dismissed for 75 in the 19th over, SRH were just five short of the victory which they made at the completion of 19th over mark. CSK batters fall short again Batting first in the last home of the season, CSK lost Sanju Samson (27) and Urvil Patel (13) inside powerplay and finished the first six overs at 57/2. Skipper Ruturaj Gaikwad (15) and Kartik Sharma (32) added 42 runs for the third wicket before both of them departed in space of 11 balls and 10 runs as CSK were left dwindling at 100/4 in the 12th over. Dewald Brevis (44), Shivam Dube (26) then added 59 runs for the fifth wicket and Prashant Veer chipped in with 11 in the end as CSK finished at 180/7 in 20 overs.

SRH qualified for the IPL 2026 qualifiers with a five-wicket win over CSK on Monday (May 18). The five-time champions, however, are still in race for the final place in top four along with PBKS, RR, DC, and KKR.

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

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