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Bayern Munich coach Vincent Kompany has called refereeing ridiculous after being ousted from Champions Trophy on Wednesday (May 6). Bayern's journey ended after playing a 1-1 draw in semi-final second leg against defending champions Paris Saint-Germain (PSG) who advanced to their second consecutive final on 6-5 aggregate score. Kompany called out two calls made by referee during the game - Nuno Mendes handball in the first half and Joao Neves handlball later on. In the Mendes incident, PSG got the free kick instead of what they think should have been second yellow card for the PSG player.Also Read - <a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/fifa-invites-iran-to-headquarters-by-may-20-to-prepare-for-world-cup-north-america-usa-donald-trump-israel-1777987807215">FIFA invites Iran to headquarters by May 20 ‘to prepare for World Cup’</a><h2>Why referee did not give Mendes handball?</h2>At nearly the half-hour mark, Bayern's Konrad Laimer pushed the ball ahead which struck on Mendes' arm. The referee, however, had already whistled against Laimer who had appeared to have handled the ball himself. Have a look at the video below:

<blockquote class="twitter-tweet" data-media-max-width="560">The ball straight into the arms of Nuno Mendes in the penalty box but no penalty given. At this point, I don’t know how much PSG paid, but it must sure be a lot! <a href="https://t.co/li3QJOJwFQ">pic.twitter.com/li3QJOJwFQ</a>&mdash; nebuchadnezzar (@chrismyka015) <a href="https://twitter.com/chrismyka015/status/2052117802773852615?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">May 6, 2026</a></blockquote> <script async src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script>

The second incident happened when PSG's Vitinha's clearance kick hit his teammate Joao Neves on his hand inside the box but no penalty given. Have a look at the video below:

<blockquote class="twitter-tweet" data-media-max-width="560">BAYERN ARE APPEALING FOR A PENALTY AS JOÃO NEVES HANDLES THE BALL IN THE BOX AFTER VITINHA’S CLEARANCE!!! 😱 <a href="https://t.co/bJB1ivILkM">pic.twitter.com/bJB1ivILkM</a>&mdash; Dribble TV (@Dribble_TV1) <a href="https://twitter.com/Dribble_TV1/status/2052111400886055376?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">May 6, 2026</a></blockquote> <script async src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script>

Kompany wasn't happy about either of the decisions and it may have played a role in 1-1 game which saw German giants bow out of the Champions League.<h2>What did Kompany say about refereeing?</h2>"We have to look at some of the phases that were decided by the officials across the two games which … it’s never an excuse for everything but it matters," he said. "If we look at both legs probably too much went against us. The guys gave everything and we tried against a fantastic PSG team."[João Neves’s] hand is in the air, it hits it. Because it’s from his own teammate it’s not a penalty. But if you look at both [situations], a ­little bit of common sense and it’s just ridiculous. Whatever needs to happen but it’s ridiculous. It doesn’t tell the whole game but it’s a one-goal game in the end."PSG now play against English Premier League giants Arsenal on May 30 in Budapest, Hungary for their second consecutive European title.

Kompany called out two handballs not given by referee in semi-final second leg vs PSG - against Mendes and Neves - in a game which ended in 1-1 draw and PSG advanced to UCL final on 6-5 aggregate.

Bayern Munich coach Vincent Kompany has called refereeing ridiculous after being ousted from Champions Trophy on Wednesday (May 6). Bayern's journey ended after playing a 1-1 draw in semi-final second leg against defending champions Paris Saint-Germain (PSG) who advanced to their second consecutive final on 6-5 aggregate score. Kompany called out two calls made by referee during the game - Nuno Mendes handball in the first half and Joao Neves handlball later on. In the Mendes incident, PSG got the free kick instead of what they think should have been second yellow card for the PSG player. Also Read - FIFA invites Iran to headquarters by May 20 ‘to prepare for World Cup’ Why referee did not give Mendes handball? At nearly the half-hour mark, Bayern's Konrad Laimer pushed the ball ahead which struck on Mendes' arm. The referee, however, had already whistled against Laimer who had appeared to have handled the ball himself. Have a look at the video below:

Kompany called out two handballs not given by referee in semi-final second leg vs PSG - against Mendes and Neves - in a game which ended in 1-1 draw and PSG advanced to UCL final on 6-5 aggregate.

Champions League | 'Just ridiculous': Bayern coach Kompany decries refereeing calls vs PSG - WATCH

SunRisers Hyderabad (SRH) beat Punjab Kings (PBKS) by 33 runs on Wednesday (May 6) in IPL 2026 match at Hyderabad. Batting first, SRH scored 235/4 and in reply, PBKS could manage only 202/7 despite Cooper Connolly's unbeaten 107 off 59 balls. With the win, SRH are not top of the table with 14 points from seven wins and four losses in 11 matches. PBKS, which were at the top for most of the season, are now second with 13 points from six wins, one no result and three losses in 10 matches. With playoffs approaching, PBKS are losing steam with loss against SRH being their third consecutive in the season.Also Read - <a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/bcci-shifts-ipl-2026-final-venue-from-bengaluru-to-ahmedabad-new-chandigarh-to-host-2-playoff-matches-1778056151206">Ahmedabad to host IPL 2026 final; New Chandigarh hosts 2 playoff matches</a><h2>PBKS batting flops again</h2>Punjab Kings have built this season around their explosive batting but they failed to perform against SRH on Wednesday (May 6). Chasing 236, PBKS lost star openers Priyansh Arya and Prabhsimran Singh in first seven balls with just four runs on the board. The situation further deteriorated with skipper Shreyas Iyer getting out inside powerplay as well. Marcus Stoinis (28 off 14) followed the suit of first three batters in the first over after powerplay. At 63/4, Suryansh Shedge (25) and Cooper Connolly added 47 runs for the fifth wicket but it was too little for PBKS. Shashank Singh was dismissed cheaply as well after Shedge was out in the 12th over before Connolly took charge and added 66 runs with Marco Jansen (19) for the seventh wicket. PBKS eventually could manage 202/7 in 20 overs with Connolly scoring 107 of them and remained not out.<h2>SRH explode in Hyderabad</h2>Batting first, SRH openers Abhishek Sharma and Travis Head were on song from ball one - adding 54 runs in 3.2 overs before Abhishek was out on 35 off 13. Head was next to go in the seventh over after scoring 38 off 19 and adding 30 runs with Ishan Kishan for the second wicket. Kishan (55) then joined forces with Heinrich Klaasen and the duo added 88 runs in the next eight overs for the third wicket. Nitish Reddy played a little cameo off 29 off 13 as Klaasen scored 69 before being dismissed on the last ball as SRH finished at 235/4 in 20 overs.

SRH beat PBKS by 33 runs in IPL 2026 match on Wednesday (May 6). Chasing 236, PBKS could manage only 202/7 despite Connolly's unbeaten 107. With the win, SRH are now top of the table with 14 points and PBKS second with 13.

SunRisers Hyderabad (SRH) beat Punjab Kings (PBKS) by 33 runs on Wednesday (May 6) in IPL 2026 match at Hyderabad. Batting first, SRH scored 235/4 and in reply, PBKS could manage only 202/7 despite Cooper Connolly's unbeaten 107 off 59 balls. With the win, SRH are not top of the table with 14 points from seven wins and four losses in 11 matches. PBKS, which were at the top for most of the season, are now second with 13 points from six wins, one no result and three losses in 10 matches. With playoffs approaching, PBKS are losing steam with loss against SRH being their third consecutive in the season. Also Read - Ahmedabad to host IPL 2026 final; New Chandigarh hosts 2 playoff matches PBKS batting flops again Punjab Kings have built this season around their explosive batting but they failed to perform against SRH on Wednesday (May 6). Chasing 236, PBKS lost star openers Priyansh Arya and Prabhsimran Singh in first seven balls with just four runs on the board. The situation further deteriorated with skipper Shreyas Iyer getting out inside powerplay as well. Marcus Stoinis (28 off 14) followed the suit of first three batters in the first over after powerplay. At 63/4, Suryansh Shedge (25) and Cooper Connolly added 47 runs for the fifth wicket but it was too little for PBKS. Shashank Singh was dismissed cheaply as well after Shedge was out in the 12th over before Connolly took charge and added 66 runs with Marco Jansen (19) for the seventh wicket. PBKS eventually could manage 202/7 in 20 overs with Connolly scoring 107 of them and remained not out. SRH explode in Hyderabad Batting first, SRH openers Abhishek Sharma and Travis Head were on song from ball one - adding 54 runs in 3.2 overs before Abhishek was out on 35 off 13. Head was next to go in the seventh over after scoring 38 off 19 and adding 30 runs with Ishan Kishan for the second wicket. Kishan (55) then joined forces with Heinrich Klaasen and the duo added 88 runs in the next eight overs for the third wicket. Nitish Reddy played a little cameo off 29 off 13 as Klaasen scored 69 before being dismissed on the last ball as SRH finished at 235/4 in 20 overs.

SRH beat PBKS by 33 runs in IPL 2026 match on Wednesday (May 6). Chasing 236, PBKS could manage only 202/7 despite Connolly's unbeaten 107. With the win, SRH are now top of the table with 14 points and PBKS second with 13.

Who won yesterday's IPL 2026 match between SunRisers Hyderabad vs Punjab Kings? check result

Holders Paris Saint-Germain set up a Champions League final against Arsenal after a 1-1 second-leg draw at Bayern Munich secured a 6-5 aggregate victory on Wednesday. PSG exploded on the counter less than three minutes in and Ballon d'Or winner Ousmane Dembele put Luis Enrique's visitors ahead on the night and two goals up in the tie. PSG largely succeeded in subduing Bayern's attacking threat, despite Harry Kane's stoppage-time goal.Also Read - <a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/why-real-madrid-fans-want-mbappe-to-be-sold-french-footballer-speaks-up-after-criticism-over-weekend-trip-with-girlfriend-1778043923888">Mbappe speaks up after criticism for trip with girlfriend amid injury recovery</a>"It was an exceptional match, another magical night in Munich against a great team," PSG forward Desire Doue told Canal Plus."These are the kinds of matches we've dreamt of playing since we were little. Now, we're going to enjoy this as a team."On their return to Munich's Allianz Arena, the scene of their greatest triumph against Inter Milan in last year's final, PSG once again emphasised their excellence in a competition they coveted without success for so long.The French giants will be favourites to lift the trophy for a second successive season when they face Premier League leaders Arsenal on May 30 in Budapest.They are hoping to become only the second back-to-back winners since 1990, after Real Madrid.Bayern were angered by some first-half refereeing decisions but lacked the potency they showed in their 5-4 first-leg loss in Paris.The six-time European champions have still not reached the final since beating PSG in the 2020 showpiece in Lisbon."I don't have the ability to be disappointed for long," said Bayern coach Vincent Kompany. "Of course, in the end we lost two very, very tight games against a very good opponent."Both sides were playing their 52nd match of the season in all competitions -- not even counting last summer's Club World Cup -- but only the hosts looked weary.So dangerous in the first leg, Bayern were surprisingly stodgy, with Michael Olise in particular having an off night.In the midst of a record-breaking season, Bayern's fourth defeat in all competitions will sting for a club set to wonder what might have been.<h2>Dembele strikes early</h2>With Bayern already Bundesliga champions and PSG also on track for the Ligue 1 title, both sides heavily rotated their line-ups in the weekend's league fixtures.But both teams only made one change to their starting XIs compared to last week's spectacle in Paris. Only PSG's was forced, with Fabian Ruiz in for the injured Achraf Hakimi.The high-octane first leg was widely lauded as among the best matches in the competition's history and Wednesday's game offered more of the same early.Ruiz, starting his first European match since January, set Khvicha Kvaratskhelia down the left flank with an excellent through ball.The Georgian latched onto the pass, blazed past his marker before cutting back for the perfectly placed Dembele to slam home.Bayern conceded after just 36 seconds against Real Madrid in the quarter-finals and fought back to win but seemed stunned by the early goal this time around.Olise, Kane and Joshua Kimmich all mislaid passes in the opening half-hour, ending promising attacks.Bayern surrounded referee Joao Pinheiro claiming a penalty on the half-hour mark when Vitinha's clearance hit Joao Neves's outstretched arm in the box, but their appeals were waved away.The home players had already been left incensed when PSG full-back Nuno Mendes was not shown a second yellow card for handball.PSG went inches from scoring a second but Manuel Neuer tipped a close-range Neves header just wide of the post.The home team rediscovered their rhythm just before the break, with Jamal Musiala forcing an excellent low save from PSG goalkeeper Matvey Safonov and blasting over the bar.PSG showed a more measured side to their game in the second half, sitting back to absorb Bayern pressure while never losing their own threat on the counter.Neuer made fine saves from Kvaratskhelia and Doue to keep Bayern in the tie.The Bavarians dominated possession and territory but could not break through until Kane scored for a seventh straight Champions League match in stoppage time.There was time for the restart, but it was too little, too late for the hosts.

The French giants will be favourites to lift the trophy for a second successive season when they face Premier League leaders Arsenal on May 30 in Budapest.

Holders Paris Saint-Germain set up a Champions League final against Arsenal after a 1-1 second-leg draw at Bayern Munich secured a 6-5 aggregate victory on Wednesday. PSG exploded on the counter less than three minutes in and Ballon d'Or winner Ousmane Dembele put Luis Enrique's visitors ahead on the night and two goals up in the tie. PSG largely succeeded in subduing Bayern's attacking threat, despite Harry Kane's stoppage-time goal. Also Read - Mbappe speaks up after criticism for trip with girlfriend amid injury recovery "It was an exceptional match, another magical night in Munich against a great team," PSG forward Desire Doue told Canal Plus. "These are the kinds of matches we've dreamt of playing since we were little. Now, we're going to enjoy this as a team." On their return to Munich's Allianz Arena, the scene of their greatest triumph against Inter Milan in last year's final, PSG once again emphasised their excellence in a competition they coveted without success for so long. The French giants will be favourites to lift the trophy for a second successive season when they face Premier League leaders Arsenal on May 30 in Budapest. They are hoping to become only the second back-to-back winners since 1990, after Real Madrid. Bayern were angered by some first-half refereeing decisions but lacked the potency they showed in their 5-4 first-leg loss in Paris. The six-time European champions have still not reached the final since beating PSG in the 2020 showpiece in Lisbon. "I don't have the ability to be disappointed for long," said Bayern coach Vincent Kompany. "Of course, in the end we lost two very, very tight games against a very good opponent." Both sides were playing their 52nd match of the season in all competitions -- not even counting last summer's Club World Cup -- but only the hosts looked weary. So dangerous in the first leg, Bayern were surprisingly stodgy, with Michael Olise in particular having an off night. In the midst of a record-breaking season, Bayern's fourth defeat in all competitions will sting for a club set to wonder what might have been. Dembele strikes early With Bayern already Bundesliga champions and PSG also on track for the Ligue 1 title, both sides heavily rotated their line-ups in the weekend's league fixtures. But both teams only made one change to their starting XIs compared to last week's spectacle in Paris. Only PSG's was forced, with Fabian Ruiz in for the injured Achraf Hakimi. The high-octane first leg was widely lauded as among the best matches in the competition's history and Wednesday's game offered more of the same early. Ruiz, starting his first European match since January, set Khvicha Kvaratskhelia down the left flank with an excellent through ball. The Georgian latched onto the pass, blazed past his marker before cutting back for the perfectly placed Dembele to slam home. Bayern conceded after just 36 seconds against Real Madrid in the quarter-finals and fought back to win but seemed stunned by the early goal this time around. Olise, Kane and Joshua Kimmich all mislaid passes in the opening half-hour, ending promising attacks. Bayern surrounded referee Joao Pinheiro claiming a penalty on the half-hour mark when Vitinha's clearance hit Joao Neves's outstretched arm in the box, but their appeals were waved away. The home players had already been left incensed when PSG full-back Nuno Mendes was not shown a second yellow card for handball. PSG went inches from scoring a second but Manuel Neuer tipped a close-range Neves header just wide of the post. The home team rediscovered their rhythm just before the break, with Jamal Musiala forcing an excellent low save from PSG goalkeeper Matvey Safonov and blasting over the bar. PSG showed a more measured side to their game in the second half, sitting back to absorb Bayern pressure while never losing their own threat on the counter. Neuer made fine saves from Kvaratskhelia and Doue to keep Bayern in the tie. The Bavarians dominated possession and territory but could not break through until Kane scored for a seventh straight Champions League match in stoppage time. There was time for the restart, but it was too little, too late for the hosts.

The French giants will be favourites to lift the trophy for a second successive season when they face Premier League leaders Arsenal on May 30 in Budapest.

Champions League | Defending champions PSG edge past Bayern to set up final vs Arsenal

International football’s governing body, FIFA, is set to extend Gianluca Prestianni's suspension worldwide after the player was banned for discriminatory conduct while playing for Benfica. Prestianni, who has been slapped with a six-match ban for discriminatory conduct against Real Madrid winger Vinicius, will now miss the opening two matches of the FIFA World Cup 2026, which starts next month. Madrid forward Vinicius Junior accused the 20-year-old Prestianni of racism after they clashed on the field, a claim Prestianni denies.<h2>FIFA extend Prestianni’s suspension</h2>Argentina's Prestianni was handed a six-game ban, with three of them suspended, for discriminatory conduct in the first leg of the Champions League play-off tie against Real Madrid on February 17. As the two argued, Prestianni spoke to Vinicius while covering his mouth, prompting the Brazilian to complain to the referee, which led to the match being suspended for 10 minutes.&nbsp;"The FIFA Disciplinary Committee has decided to extend the six-match ban imposed by UEFA on SL Benfica player Gianluca Prestianni to have worldwide effect," FIFA told AFP."The sanction has been extended in accordance with Article 70 of the FIFA Disciplinary Code."&nbsp;ALSO READ | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/photos/from-cameron-green-to-liam-livingstone-5-most-expensive-players-in-ipl-2026-auctions-matheesha-pathirana-kartik-sharma-prashant-veer-1774031148132">From Cameron Green to Liam Livingstone, 5 most expensive players in IPL 2026 auctions</a>&nbsp;Prestianni, who made his only international appearance last November, has already served one match of his suspension, missing the Champions League play-off second leg. Following FIFA's decision, the former Velez Sarsfield player would miss holders Argentina's two opening games of the World Cup, which takes place in the United States, Canada and Mexico between June 11 and July 19.&nbsp;ALSO READ | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/photos/from-rohit-sharma-to-sanju-samson-5-highest-individual-score-in-a-lost-chase-in-ipl-yusuf-pathan-kl-rahul-shaun-marsh-ipl-2026-1774084136030">From Rohit Sharma to Sanju Samson, 5 highest individual scores in a lost chase in IPL</a>&nbsp;The winger was first included in the Argentina squad in the November friendlies and was called again for the same in March. He is considered a bright talent but is already embroiled in a series of controversies while playing for Benfica.

Argentina's Gianluca Prestianni was handed a six-game ban, with three of them suspended, for discriminatory conduct in the first leg of the Champions League play-off tie against Real Madrid on February 17. 

International football’s governing body, FIFA, is set to extend Gianluca Prestianni's suspension worldwide after the player was banned for discriminatory conduct while playing for Benfica. Prestianni, who has been slapped with a six-match ban for discriminatory conduct against Real Madrid winger Vinicius, will now miss the opening two matches of the FIFA World Cup 2026, which starts next month. Madrid forward Vinicius Junior accused the 20-year-old Prestianni of racism after they clashed on the field, a claim Prestianni denies. FIFA extend Prestianni’s suspension Argentina's Prestianni was handed a six-game ban, with three of them suspended, for discriminatory conduct in the first leg of the Champions League play-off tie against Real Madrid on February 17. As the two argued, Prestianni spoke to Vinicius while covering his mouth, prompting the Brazilian to complain to the referee, which led to the match being suspended for 10 minutes. "The FIFA Disciplinary Committee has decided to extend the six-match ban imposed by UEFA on SL Benfica player Gianluca Prestianni to have worldwide effect," FIFA told AFP. "The sanction has been extended in accordance with Article 70 of the FIFA Disciplinary Code." ALSO READ | From Cameron Green to Liam Livingstone, 5 most expensive players in IPL 2026 auctions Prestianni, who made his only international appearance last November, has already served one match of his suspension, missing the Champions League play-off second leg. Following FIFA's decision, the former Velez Sarsfield player would miss holders Argentina's two opening games of the World Cup, which takes place in the United States, Canada and Mexico between June 11 and July 19. ALSO READ | From Rohit Sharma to Sanju Samson, 5 highest individual scores in a lost chase in IPL The winger was first included in the Argentina squad in the November friendlies and was called again for the same in March. He is considered a bright talent but is already embroiled in a series of controversies while playing for Benfica.

Argentina's Gianluca Prestianni was handed a six-game ban, with three of them suspended, for discriminatory conduct in the first leg of the Champions League play-off tie against Real Madrid on February 17.&nbsp;

FIFA extends Gianluca Prestianni's suspension worldwide, to miss opening matches for Argentina in World Cup

SunRisers Hyderabad (SRH) reached the top of the Indian Premier League (IPL 2026) table as they toppled Punjab Kings at home by 33 runs on Wednesday (May 6). Playing at the Rajiv Gandhi International Stadium in Hyderabad, the win for SRH means PBKS were toppled from the top spot in the points table for the first time since the first week of April. The defeat for PBKS was also their third consecutive, meaning they are just one point behind fifth-placed Gujarat Titans (GT), endangering them from missing out on the IPL 2026 Playoffs.<h2>SRH emerge victorious</h2>Punjab were never in the chase after Hyderabad skipper and pace bowler Pat Cummins dismissed Priyansh Arya for one in the first over and Nitish Kumar Reddy removed Prabhsimran in the next. Wickets kept tumbling as Marcus Stoinis (28) and Suryansh Shedge (25) had their knocks cut short by Shivang Kumar and Cummins. Connolly waged a lone battle and put on 68 runs with Marco Jansen (19), but the partnership could only reduce the margin of defeat for Punjab.<h2>What happened in SRH innings?</h2>Klaasen put on key stands, including an 88-run partnership with Ishan Kishan, who made 55, to guide Hyderabad to 235-4 at their home Rajiv Gandhi International Stadium. Klaasen and Kishan built on the blazing start by openers Abhishek Sharma and Travis Head, the pair putting on 54 runs off 21 balls. Abhishek struck 35 off 13 balls and Head hammered a quick 38 to lay the foundation for the total.&nbsp;ALSO READ | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/photos/from-cameron-green-to-liam-livingstone-5-most-expensive-players-in-ipl-2026-auctions-matheesha-pathirana-kartik-sharma-prashant-veer-1774031148132">From Cameron Green to Liam Livingstone, 5 most expensive players in IPL 2026 auctions</a>&nbsp;Hyderabad's bowlers restricted Punjab to 202-7 despite a valiant unbeaten 107 by Australia's Cooper Connolly, who struck his maiden T20 century in his debut IPL season. Hyderabad knocked Punjab from top spot and took over first place in the table with 14 points from 11 matches. Punjab, who are eyeing their first title, slipped to second with their third straight defeat, but have played one match fewer than the 2016 champions, Hyderabad.&nbsp;ALSO READ | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/photos/from-rohit-sharma-to-sanju-samson-5-highest-individual-score-in-a-lost-chase-in-ipl-yusuf-pathan-kl-rahul-shaun-marsh-ipl-2026-1774084136030">From Rohit Sharma to Sanju Samson, 5 highest individual scores in a lost chase in IPL</a>&nbsp;Sharp fielding gave Hyderabad the advantage, with secure catching contrasting Punjab's missed chances. Connolly dropped Kishan on nine and the wicketkeeper-batter survived again on 18 when Lockie Ferguson spilled a chance at backward square-leg. Kishan lived a charmed life as Prabhsimran Singh missed an easy stumping off Yuzvendra Chahal. Shahshank Singh dropped Klaasen on nine.&nbsp;The missed opportunities allowed both batters to pass fifty. Klaasen finished strongly in his 43-ball knock before being dismissed on the final ball of the innings.

Playing at the Rajiv Gandhi International Stadium in Hyderabad, the win for SRH means PBKS were toppled from the top spot in the points table for the first time since the first week of April. 

SunRisers Hyderabad (SRH) reached the top of the Indian Premier League (IPL 2026) table as they toppled Punjab Kings at home by 33 runs on Wednesday (May 6). Playing at the Rajiv Gandhi International Stadium in Hyderabad, the win for SRH means PBKS were toppled from the top spot in the points table for the first time since the first week of April. The defeat for PBKS was also their third consecutive, meaning they are just one point behind fifth-placed Gujarat Titans (GT), endangering them from missing out on the IPL 2026 Playoffs. SRH emerge victorious Punjab were never in the chase after Hyderabad skipper and pace bowler Pat Cummins dismissed Priyansh Arya for one in the first over and Nitish Kumar Reddy removed Prabhsimran in the next. Wickets kept tumbling as Marcus Stoinis (28) and Suryansh Shedge (25) had their knocks cut short by Shivang Kumar and Cummins. Connolly waged a lone battle and put on 68 runs with Marco Jansen (19), but the partnership could only reduce the margin of defeat for Punjab. What happened in SRH innings? Klaasen put on key stands, including an 88-run partnership with Ishan Kishan, who made 55, to guide Hyderabad to 235-4 at their home Rajiv Gandhi International Stadium. Klaasen and Kishan built on the blazing start by openers Abhishek Sharma and Travis Head, the pair putting on 54 runs off 21 balls. Abhishek struck 35 off 13 balls and Head hammered a quick 38 to lay the foundation for the total. ALSO READ | From Cameron Green to Liam Livingstone, 5 most expensive players in IPL 2026 auctions Hyderabad's bowlers restricted Punjab to 202-7 despite a valiant unbeaten 107 by Australia's Cooper Connolly, who struck his maiden T20 century in his debut IPL season. Hyderabad knocked Punjab from top spot and took over first place in the table with 14 points from 11 matches. Punjab, who are eyeing their first title, slipped to second with their third straight defeat, but have played one match fewer than the 2016 champions, Hyderabad. ALSO READ | From Rohit Sharma to Sanju Samson, 5 highest individual scores in a lost chase in IPL Sharp fielding gave Hyderabad the advantage, with secure catching contrasting Punjab's missed chances. Connolly dropped Kishan on nine and the wicketkeeper-batter survived again on 18 when Lockie Ferguson spilled a chance at backward square-leg. Kishan lived a charmed life as Prabhsimran Singh missed an easy stumping off Yuzvendra Chahal. Shahshank Singh dropped Klaasen on nine. The missed opportunities allowed both batters to pass fifty. Klaasen finished strongly in his 43-ball knock before being dismissed on the final ball of the innings.

Playing at the Rajiv Gandhi International Stadium in Hyderabad, the win for SRH means PBKS were toppled from the top spot in the points table for the first time since the first week of April.&nbsp;

IPL 2026, SRH vs PBKS: Hyderabad hit top form ahead of Playoffs, topple Punjab to lead points table

Former India speedster Irfan Pathan was full of praise for Shreyas Iyer as the Punjab Kings continue to excel in the Indian Premier League (IPL 2026). Sitting at the top of the table, the Punjab Kings have enjoyed a stellar run since Iyer took over as the captain. According to Irfan, Shreyas is in the same league as Rohit Sharma and MS Dhoni, having already led his side in three IPL finals in the past.<h2>Irfan praises Shreyas Iyer</h2>“Shreyas Iyer, who has taken three franchises to the final and won it with KKR. One more trophy; if he wins it with Punjab, he will surpass everyone,” Pathan said before the SRH vs PBKS contest.&nbsp;ALSO READ | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/photos/from-rohit-sharma-to-sanju-samson-5-highest-individual-score-in-a-lost-chase-in-ipl-yusuf-pathan-kl-rahul-shaun-marsh-ipl-2026-1774084136030">From Rohit Sharma to Sanju Samson, 5 highest individual scores in a lost chase in IPL</a>&nbsp;“On that list of MS Dhoni, Rohit Sharma, and Gautam Gambhir, I feel Shreyas Iyer has to be right up there among the best captains. It is not easy to take three different franchises to the finals. Each franchise is different; their culture, setup, and mindset are completely different. To adjust to those things and then lead the way forward is not easy. No one has ever done it,” Pathan added.&nbsp;Punjab Kings sit top of the table as they took on SRH in IPL 2026 on Wednesday (May 6). They come into the game on the back of back-to-back defeats in IPL 2026 as they first lost to the Rajasthan Royals at home before losing to the Gujarat Titans.&nbsp;ALSO READ | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/photos/from-cameron-green-to-liam-livingstone-5-most-expensive-players-in-ipl-2026-auctions-matheesha-pathirana-kartik-sharma-prashant-veer-1774031148132">From Cameron Green to Liam Livingstone, 5 most expensive players in IPL 2026 auctions</a>&nbsp;Despite the setback, PBKS are favourites to reach the IPL 2026 Playoffs, having finished runners-up in the last edition. They lost to RCB in the final at the Narendra Modi Stadium while also losing to them at home in the league match and Qualifier 1. In case Shreyas reaches the IPL final with PBKS, he will become the first captain to reach three consecutive IPL finals.

Punjab Kings sit top of the table as they took on SRH in IPL 2026 on Wednesday (May 6). They come into the game on the back of back-to-back defeats in IPL 2026 as they first lost to the Rajasthan Royals at home before losing to the Gujarat Titans.

Former India speedster Irfan Pathan was full of praise for Shreyas Iyer as the Punjab Kings continue to excel in the Indian Premier League (IPL 2026). Sitting at the top of the table, the Punjab Kings have enjoyed a stellar run since Iyer took over as the captain. According to Irfan, Shreyas is in the same league as Rohit Sharma and MS Dhoni, having already led his side in three IPL finals in the past. Irfan praises Shreyas Iyer “Shreyas Iyer, who has taken three franchises to the final and won it with KKR. One more trophy; if he wins it with Punjab, he will surpass everyone,” Pathan said before the SRH vs PBKS contest. ALSO READ | From Rohit Sharma to Sanju Samson, 5 highest individual scores in a lost chase in IPL “On that list of MS Dhoni, Rohit Sharma, and Gautam Gambhir, I feel Shreyas Iyer has to be right up there among the best captains. It is not easy to take three different franchises to the finals. Each franchise is different; their culture, setup, and mindset are completely different. To adjust to those things and then lead the way forward is not easy. No one has ever done it,” Pathan added. Punjab Kings sit top of the table as they took on SRH in IPL 2026 on Wednesday (May 6). They come into the game on the back of back-to-back defeats in IPL 2026 as they first lost to the Rajasthan Royals at home before losing to the Gujarat Titans. ALSO READ | From Cameron Green to Liam Livingstone, 5 most expensive players in IPL 2026 auctions Despite the setback, PBKS are favourites to reach the IPL 2026 Playoffs, having finished runners-up in the last edition. They lost to RCB in the final at the Narendra Modi Stadium while also losing to them at home in the league match and Qualifier 1. In case Shreyas reaches the IPL final with PBKS, he will become the first captain to reach three consecutive IPL finals.

Punjab Kings sit top of the table as they took on SRH in IPL 2026 on Wednesday (May 6). They come into the game on the back of back-to-back defeats in IPL 2026 as they first lost to the Rajasthan Royals at home before losing to the Gujarat Titans.

IPL 2026: Pathan compares Shreyas Iyer with MS Dhoni, Rohit Sharma, says 'has to be right up'

Atletico Madrid manager Diego Simeone could be on his way out as the side exited the Champions League at the semifinal stage on Tuesday (May 5). The 2-1 aggregate defeat means Simeone won’t be able to lift the Champions League title after more than 14 years at the club. The frustration also grows as Atletico have been largely unable to mount a title challenge in La Liga, where Real Madrid and Barcelona are still the top clubs.<h2>Is Simeone on his way out of Atletico?</h2>"Not now, definitely not now," Simeone said, leaving doubts over his intentions this summer.&nbsp;"We've grown enormously in every aspect, we're a club recognised in Europe and the world," said Simeone, after the 1-0 loss at the Emirates, resulting in a 2-1 aggregate defeat.&nbsp;"But the fans want to win. Getting to a semi-final isn't enough."&nbsp;There have been similar queries put to Simeone over the years, 14-and-a-half of them, since he took over at the helm of the Rojiblancos. Usually they have surfaced in moments like these, painful knock-outs, that Atletico have suffered repeatedly. None hurt more than the two final defeats by rivals Real Madrid in 2014 and 2016.&nbsp;Simeone almost walked away after the second of those, on penalties at the San Siro, admitting it would be difficult to lift the players mentally after such a crushing blow. Those matches came in the early years of Simeone's reign, Atletico's best period. The seasons since have largely been frustrating, despite landing La Liga in 2021, even though the task of competing with Spain's two giants in Barcelona and Real Madrid, is a difficult one.&nbsp;ALSO READ | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/photos/from-cameron-green-to-liam-livingstone-5-most-expensive-players-in-ipl-2026-auctions-matheesha-pathirana-kartik-sharma-prashant-veer-1774031148132">From Cameron Green to Liam Livingstone, 5 most expensive players in IPL 2026 auctions</a>&nbsp;Since that title triumph half a decade ago, Atletico have been waiting for silverware while wrangling with their own identity. Simeone, who still has a reputation as an ultra-conservative coach, has pointed out many times this season that his Atletico team attacks better than it defends.&nbsp;Not well enough to break down Mikel Arteta's rock-solid Arsenal, but Atletico have improved in that regard and Simeone has evolved too, seeking a more expansive style without sacrificing the intensity that defined his best years.&nbsp;ALSO READ | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/photos/from-rohit-sharma-to-sanju-samson-5-highest-individual-score-in-a-lost-chase-in-ipl-yusuf-pathan-kl-rahul-shaun-marsh-ipl-2026-1774084136030">From Rohit Sharma to Sanju Samson, 5 highest individual scores in a lost chase in IPL</a>&nbsp;Although the ever-lengthening time since they won a trophy adds pressure, increases speculation and murmuring among supporters who adore Simeone but cannot help but wonder if another coach could get more out of the team, there have been signs of improvement.

Diego Simeone almost walked away after the second of those, on penalties at the San Siro, admitting it would be difficult to lift the players mentally after such a crushing blow. Those matches came in the early years of Simeone's reign, Atletico's best period.

Atletico Madrid manager Diego Simeone could be on his way out as the side exited the Champions League at the semifinal stage on Tuesday (May 5). The 2-1 aggregate defeat means Simeone won’t be able to lift the Champions League title after more than 14 years at the club. The frustration also grows as Atletico have been largely unable to mount a title challenge in La Liga, where Real Madrid and Barcelona are still the top clubs. Is Simeone on his way out of Atletico? "Not now, definitely not now," Simeone said, leaving doubts over his intentions this summer. "We've grown enormously in every aspect, we're a club recognised in Europe and the world," said Simeone, after the 1-0 loss at the Emirates, resulting in a 2-1 aggregate defeat. "But the fans want to win. Getting to a semi-final isn't enough." There have been similar queries put to Simeone over the years, 14-and-a-half of them, since he took over at the helm of the Rojiblancos. Usually they have surfaced in moments like these, painful knock-outs, that Atletico have suffered repeatedly. None hurt more than the two final defeats by rivals Real Madrid in 2014 and 2016. Simeone almost walked away after the second of those, on penalties at the San Siro, admitting it would be difficult to lift the players mentally after such a crushing blow. Those matches came in the early years of Simeone's reign, Atletico's best period. The seasons since have largely been frustrating, despite landing La Liga in 2021, even though the task of competing with Spain's two giants in Barcelona and Real Madrid, is a difficult one. ALSO READ | From Cameron Green to Liam Livingstone, 5 most expensive players in IPL 2026 auctions Since that title triumph half a decade ago, Atletico have been waiting for silverware while wrangling with their own identity. Simeone, who still has a reputation as an ultra-conservative coach, has pointed out many times this season that his Atletico team attacks better than it defends. Not well enough to break down Mikel Arteta's rock-solid Arsenal, but Atletico have improved in that regard and Simeone has evolved too, seeking a more expansive style without sacrificing the intensity that defined his best years. ALSO READ | From Rohit Sharma to Sanju Samson, 5 highest individual scores in a lost chase in IPL Although the ever-lengthening time since they won a trophy adds pressure, increases speculation and murmuring among supporters who adore Simeone but cannot help but wonder if another coach could get more out of the team, there have been signs of improvement.

Diego Simeone almost walked away after the second of those, on penalties at the San Siro, admitting it would be difficult to lift the players mentally after such a crushing blow. Those matches came in the early years of Simeone's reign, Atletico's best period.

Diego Simeone to leave Atletico Madrid after Champions League semis exit vs Arsenal? Here's what we know

Delhi Capitals’ (DC) Indian Premier League (IPL 2026) season took a massive hit on Tuesday (May 5) as they lost at home to Chennai Super Kings (CSK). The defeat at the Arun Jaitley Stadium leaves them seventh in the table with four matches to go, as an IPL 2026 Playoff place looks unlikely. While there is work to be done on the pitch, one positive for DC is KL Rahul’s form, as he opened up on his performance and his hunger for victory.<h2>Rahul reflects on current season</h2>“10 years ago, I would have given anything to be part of a T20 team. I was never rated as a T20 player or even considered a good white-ball player; I was branded a Test player. So, to break out of that mould, develop my white-ball game and come this far is something I’m really proud of. Along the way, I’ve made mistakes and there are things I could have done better,” KL Rahul said while speaking to JioStar’s ‘Superstars’.&nbsp;ALSO READ | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/photos/from-rohit-sharma-to-sanju-samson-5-highest-individual-score-in-a-lost-chase-in-ipl-yusuf-pathan-kl-rahul-shaun-marsh-ipl-2026-1774084136030">From Rohit Sharma to Sanju Samson, 5 highest individual scores in a lost chase in IPL</a>&nbsp;“But, what I’m proud of is that I’ve given my absolute best every time I’ve played and prepared as well as I could to give myself the best chance to succeed. That’s sport; things won’t always go your way. You have to take it in your stride and enjoy the journey. I’ve always tried to stay balanced, whether I win or lose. Whenever I feel low about what I haven’t achieved, I remind myself of what I have, and it gives me perspective. I still have some time left. So, I’ll keep trying my best and see how many trophies I can win,” the DC batter added.&nbsp;ALSO READ | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/photos/from-cameron-green-to-liam-livingstone-5-most-expensive-players-in-ipl-2026-auctions-matheesha-pathirana-kartik-sharma-prashant-veer-1774031148132">From Cameron Green to Liam Livingstone, 5 most expensive players in IPL 2026 auctions</a>&nbsp;Rahul made a poor start to IPL 2026 and was dismissed for a duck against Lucknow Super Giants (LSG) before being dismissed for one. However, he bounced back with scores of 92, 57 and an unbeaten 158 against the Punjab Kings. He also added 75 against the Rajasthan Royals as Delhi maintained their winning form. Eyes will now be on Rahul as he looks to end the season on a high while trying to keep his side’s Playoff hopes alive.

KL Rahul made a poor start to IPL 2026 and was dismissed for a duck against Lucknow Super Giants (LSG) before being dismissed for one. However, he bounced back with scores of 92, 57 and an unbeaten 158 against the Punjab Kings.

Delhi Capitals’ (DC) Indian Premier League (IPL 2026) season took a massive hit on Tuesday (May 5) as they lost at home to Chennai Super Kings (CSK). The defeat at the Arun Jaitley Stadium leaves them seventh in the table with four matches to go, as an IPL 2026 Playoff place looks unlikely. While there is work to be done on the pitch, one positive for DC is KL Rahul’s form, as he opened up on his performance and his hunger for victory. Rahul reflects on current season “10 years ago, I would have given anything to be part of a T20 team. I was never rated as a T20 player or even considered a good white-ball player; I was branded a Test player. So, to break out of that mould, develop my white-ball game and come this far is something I’m really proud of. Along the way, I’ve made mistakes and there are things I could have done better,” KL Rahul said while speaking to JioStar’s ‘Superstars’. ALSO READ | From Rohit Sharma to Sanju Samson, 5 highest individual scores in a lost chase in IPL “But, what I’m proud of is that I’ve given my absolute best every time I’ve played and prepared as well as I could to give myself the best chance to succeed. That’s sport; things won’t always go your way. You have to take it in your stride and enjoy the journey. I’ve always tried to stay balanced, whether I win or lose. Whenever I feel low about what I haven’t achieved, I remind myself of what I have, and it gives me perspective. I still have some time left. So, I’ll keep trying my best and see how many trophies I can win,” the DC batter added. ALSO READ | From Cameron Green to Liam Livingstone, 5 most expensive players in IPL 2026 auctions Rahul made a poor start to IPL 2026 and was dismissed for a duck against Lucknow Super Giants (LSG) before being dismissed for one. However, he bounced back with scores of 92, 57 and an unbeaten 158 against the Punjab Kings. He also added 75 against the Rajasthan Royals as Delhi maintained their winning form. Eyes will now be on Rahul as he looks to end the season on a high while trying to keep his side’s Playoff hopes alive.

KL Rahul made a poor start to IPL 2026 and was dismissed for a duck against Lucknow Super Giants (LSG) before being dismissed for one. However, he bounced back with scores of 92, 57 and an unbeaten 158 against the Punjab Kings.

IPL 2026: KL Rahul reflects on current season with DC, says 'I’ll keep trying my best'

The Karnataka State Cricket Association (KSCA) has expressed deep disappointment after the BCCI snubbed Bengaluru, picking Ahmedabad instead as the new host of IPL 2026 final. Not only this, but the Indian Cricket Board also did not allot any playoff match to the M Chinnaswamy Stadium in Bengaluru, with Dharamsala and New Chandigarh staging three matches among them.&nbsp;After the BCCI suggested why, under circumstances that were ‘beyond the scope of BCCI's established guidelines and protocols’, they decided to move the finale from Bengaluru to Ahmedabad, questions began lingering over the venue allocation for the league matches by the board.&nbsp; &nbsp;"Owing to certain operational and logistical considerations, the TATA IPL 2026 Playoffs will be conducted across three venues this season as a special case,” a BCCI statement read, adding, "certain requirements from the local association and authorities that were beyond the scope of BCCI's established guidelines and protocols."&nbsp;Also read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/bcci-shifts-ipl-2026-final-venue-from-bengaluru-to-ahmedabad-new-chandigarh-to-host-2-playoff-matches-1778056151206">BCCI shifts IPL 2026 final venue from Bengaluru to Ahmedabad; New Chandigarh to host 2 playoff matches</a> &nbsp;Meanwhile, KSCA issued a detailed clarification on Wednesday (May 6), revealing that they had formally communicated their ‘preparedness, willingness and keen interest’ in hosting the playoff matches, including the final, with the board president Venkatesh Prasad engaging with the apex body on the matter. &nbsp;"At the outset, KSCA expresses its disappointment that the IPL Playoff matches have been allotted to other centres," the statement read. "The IPL matches conducted in Bengaluru during the current season were widely appreciated for their smooth execution, crowd management, operational efficiency, and overall spectator experience." &nbsp;Regardless of an IPL rule, which automatically allots the home venue of the defending champions to host the next season’s finale, in this case, Chinnaswamy Stadium in Bengaluru, the final has shifted to the Narendra Modi Cricket Stadium in Ahmedabad, which will host an IPL final for the fourth time in the last five years.&nbsp; &nbsp;However, it is worth noting that even Hyderabad and Kolkata were also denied hosting rights to the playoff matches last season in the wake of growing tensions between India and Pakistan.&nbsp; &nbsp;"Despite our preparedness and willingness to host the Playoffs, we understand that the BCCI has taken a decision to allot these matches to other venues. While the specific reasons for the same have not been formally communicated to KSCA, we fully respect the prerogative and decision-making authority of the BCCI in this regard," the statement added. &nbsp;Meanwhile, since the June 5 stampede episode (outside the venue), the M Chinnaswamy Stadium in Bengaluru has not hosted any cricket match, domestic or international. But ahead of IPL 2026, the BCCI allowed KSCA to host league matches, with the proposal of staging playoff matches also on the table. &nbsp;This season, RCB’s home venue hosted five league games, with the hosts winning four and losing only to DC last month. Raipur will, however, stage the remaining two RCB home games, with the one against the Mumbai Indians next on Monday (May 10).&nbsp;

The BCCI sparks controversy by moving the IPL 2026 Final from Bengaluru to Ahmedabad. Read the KSCA’s official response on the snub and the new playoff venues.

The Karnataka State Cricket Association (KSCA) has expressed deep disappointment after the BCCI snubbed Bengaluru, picking Ahmedabad instead as the new host of IPL 2026 final. Not only this, but the Indian Cricket Board also did not allot any playoff match to the M Chinnaswamy Stadium in Bengaluru, with Dharamsala and New Chandigarh staging three matches among them. After the BCCI suggested why, under circumstances that were ‘beyond the scope of BCCI's established guidelines and protocols’, they decided to move the finale from Bengaluru to Ahmedabad, questions began lingering over the venue allocation for the league matches by the board. "Owing to certain operational and logistical considerations, the TATA IPL 2026 Playoffs will be conducted across three venues this season as a special case,” a BCCI statement read, adding, "certain requirements from the local association and authorities that were beyond the scope of BCCI's established guidelines and protocols." Also read | BCCI shifts IPL 2026 final venue from Bengaluru to Ahmedabad; New Chandigarh to host 2 playoff matches Meanwhile, KSCA issued a detailed clarification on Wednesday (May 6), revealing that they had formally communicated their ‘preparedness, willingness and keen interest’ in hosting the playoff matches, including the final, with the board president Venkatesh Prasad engaging with the apex body on the matter. "At the outset, KSCA expresses its disappointment that the IPL Playoff matches have been allotted to other centres," the statement read. "The IPL matches conducted in Bengaluru during the current season were widely appreciated for their smooth execution, crowd management, operational efficiency, and overall spectator experience." Regardless of an IPL rule, which automatically allots the home venue of the defending champions to host the next season’s finale, in this case, Chinnaswamy Stadium in Bengaluru, the final has shifted to the Narendra Modi Cricket Stadium in Ahmedabad, which will host an IPL final for the fourth time in the last five years. However, it is worth noting that even Hyderabad and Kolkata were also denied hosting rights to the playoff matches last season in the wake of growing tensions between India and Pakistan. "Despite our preparedness and willingness to host the Playoffs, we understand that the BCCI has taken a decision to allot these matches to other venues. While the specific reasons for the same have not been formally communicated to KSCA, we fully respect the prerogative and decision-making authority of the BCCI in this regard," the statement added. Meanwhile, since the June 5 stampede episode (outside the venue), the M Chinnaswamy Stadium in Bengaluru has not hosted any cricket match, domestic or international. But ahead of IPL 2026, the BCCI allowed KSCA to host league matches, with the proposal of staging playoff matches also on the table. This season, RCB’s home venue hosted five league games, with the hosts winning four and losing only to DC last month. Raipur will, however, stage the remaining two RCB home games, with the one against the Mumbai Indians next on Monday (May 10).

The BCCI sparks controversy by moving the IPL 2026 Final from Bengaluru to Ahmedabad. Read the KSCA’s official response on the snub and the new playoff venues.

BCCI snubs Bengaluru: KSCA ‘disappointed’ as IPL 2026 Final moves to Ahmedabad

Mumbai Indians (MI) finally broke their losing streak in the Indian Premier League (IPL 2026) on Monday (May 4), defeating Lucknow Super Giants (LSG) by six wickets in a record chase at Wankhede Stadium in Mumbai. One man responsible for MI’s win was former captain Rohit Sharma, as he scored 84 off 44 and played a key role. Speaking on Rohit, former MI stand-in captain Harbhajan Singh reckons that things could have been different for the franchise on the points table had Rohit recovered early from his injury.<h2>Harbhajan reckons things could have been different</h2>“It’s important to be in the middle. You can do only so much sitting in the dugout. But you can make a difference by being in the middle, and Rohit Sharma did exactly that. You needed that foundation to chase down that many runs, and he didn’t just lay the foundation, but built a couple of floors on it as well, leaving very little for the rest to do. It would have been even better if he had gotten his hundred, but for the time he was there, he played exceptionally well,” Harbhajan said while speaking to JioHotstar’s Match Centre Live.&nbsp;ALSO READ | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/photos/from-cameron-green-to-liam-livingstone-5-most-expensive-players-in-ipl-2026-auctions-matheesha-pathirana-kartik-sharma-prashant-veer-1774031148132">From Cameron Green to Liam Livingstone, 5 most expensive players in IPL 2026 auctions</a>&nbsp;“I wish his injury had healed a little earlier; who knows, they might have won a game or two during that losing streak and would have still been alive in the competition. They will give themselves a chance if they win every game from here and get to 14 points. Who knows, if other teams start losing, there could be a net run-rate situation at 14 points, anything can happen,” the former off-spinner added.&nbsp;ALSO READ | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/photos/from-rohit-sharma-to-sanju-samson-5-highest-individual-score-in-a-lost-chase-in-ipl-yusuf-pathan-kl-rahul-shaun-marsh-ipl-2026-1774084136030">From Rohit Sharma to Sanju Samson, 5 highest individual scores in a lost chase in IPL</a>&nbsp;The win against LSG was MI’s third of the season and had only won once prior to Monday’s clash. They now have six points from 10 matches and with four matches to go, MI are still six points behind fourth-placed Rajasthan Royals. It will only take a miracle for MI to reach the IPL 2026 Playoffs as they face an intense final few weeks of the league season.

The win against Lucknow Super Giants for Mumbai Indians was their third of the season and had only won once prior to Monday’s clash. They now have six points from 10 matches and with four matches to go, MI are still six points behind fourth-placed Rajasthan Royals. 

Mumbai Indians (MI) finally broke their losing streak in the Indian Premier League (IPL 2026) on Monday (May 4), defeating Lucknow Super Giants (LSG) by six wickets in a record chase at Wankhede Stadium in Mumbai. One man responsible for MI’s win was former captain Rohit Sharma, as he scored 84 off 44 and played a key role. Speaking on Rohit, former MI stand-in captain Harbhajan Singh reckons that things could have been different for the franchise on the points table had Rohit recovered early from his injury. Harbhajan reckons things could have been different “It’s important to be in the middle. You can do only so much sitting in the dugout. But you can make a difference by being in the middle, and Rohit Sharma did exactly that. You needed that foundation to chase down that many runs, and he didn’t just lay the foundation, but built a couple of floors on it as well, leaving very little for the rest to do. It would have been even better if he had gotten his hundred, but for the time he was there, he played exceptionally well,” Harbhajan said while speaking to JioHotstar’s Match Centre Live. ALSO READ | From Cameron Green to Liam Livingstone, 5 most expensive players in IPL 2026 auctions “I wish his injury had healed a little earlier; who knows, they might have won a game or two during that losing streak and would have still been alive in the competition. They will give themselves a chance if they win every game from here and get to 14 points. Who knows, if other teams start losing, there could be a net run-rate situation at 14 points, anything can happen,” the former off-spinner added. ALSO READ | From Rohit Sharma to Sanju Samson, 5 highest individual scores in a lost chase in IPL The win against LSG was MI’s third of the season and had only won once prior to Monday’s clash. They now have six points from 10 matches and with four matches to go, MI are still six points behind fourth-placed Rajasthan Royals. It will only take a miracle for MI to reach the IPL 2026 Playoffs as they face an intense final few weeks of the league season.

The win against Lucknow Super Giants for Mumbai Indians was their third of the season and had only won once prior to Monday’s clash. They now have six points from 10 matches and with four matches to go, MI are still six points behind fourth-placed Rajasthan Royals.&nbsp;

IPL 2026: MI legend reckons things could have been different, says 'wish Rohit's injury had healed earlier'

The Indian government has laid out its latest sports policy for Pakistan in an Office Memorandum issued on Wednesday (May 6), where they maintained a ban on facing or hosting Pakistan across any bilateral competitions; they, however, have formally allowed the Pakistani athletes and teams to come to India and compete on its soil in international multilateral events. In a ‘dual-track’ sports policy, the ruling government stated that ‘Pakistani players and teams will be able to participate in multilateral events hosted by India,’ while also easing out the visa application regime for athletes, officials and international federation representatives.&nbsp;Just more than a year after the Pahalgam terror attack and Operation Sindoor that followed, the eyebrow-raising government policy draws a firm line between the bilateral and multilateral sport and engagement between the arch rivals.&nbsp; &nbsp;“Insofar as bilateral sports events in each other’s country are concerned, Indian teams will not be participating in competitions in Pakistan. Nor will we permit Pakistani teams to play in India,” the memorandum read, while adding, “we are guided by the practices of international sports bodies and the interest of our own sportspersons.”&nbsp; &nbsp;The statement clearly underlines that both athletes and teams from India and Pakistan can now participate in international events on Indian soil, resuming cricket and other multi-disciplinary international sports in India. Per the government’s words, ‘India’s approach to sports events involving Pakistan reflects its overall policy in dealing with that country’.&nbsp;&nbsp;Also read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/despite-2025-wtc-crown-south-africa-spinner-simon-harmer-says-bcci-commercial-power-rules-world-cricket-indian-cricket-board-icc-1778001444117">Despite WTC crown, SA spinner Harmer says BCCI’s ‘commercial power’ rules world cricket</a> &nbsp;“With regard to international and multilateral events, in India or abroad, we are guided by the practices of international sports bodies and the interests of our own sportspersons. It is also relevant to take into account India’s emergence as a credible venue to host international sports events,” the memo further read. &nbsp;Moreover, this notification comes at a crucial point, when India is poised to host significant global tournaments in the next five years. Starting with the Commonwealth Games in 2030, besides being potential hosts of the 2036 Summer Games and 2038 Asian Games, for which the Olympic Council of Asia (OCA) officials will visit Ahmedabad to evaluate India’s bid. On the cricketing front, India will host the ICC Champions Trophy 2029 and the 2031 ODI World Cup. &nbsp;At the same time, the Indian and Pakistani athletes will face each other several times in the coming months, firstly at the Commonwealth Games in July-August and the Asian Games in September-October. Even in hockey, India and Pakistan will face off at least thrice in the next few months, in the FIH Pro Hockey League in London in late June (23 and 26) and again at the World Cup in Amsterdam on August 19.&nbsp; &nbsp;Meanwhile, the earliest the two countries will face each other is on June 14 for their Women’s T20 World Cup group game at Edgbaston in Birmingham.<h3>Visa applications to be simplified&nbsp;</h3>The Indian government also addressed the recurring friction point: visa applications. Amid holding ambitions of hosting significant global tournaments, the government said that the ‘sportspersons, team officials, technical personnel, and office-bearers of International Sports Governing Bodies shall be simplified.’&nbsp; &nbsp;“This (simplified visa process) shall facilitate their smooth movement into and within the country, in accordance with international norms,” the memo further read.

The Indian government formalises a 'dual-track' sports policy: Bilateral ties with Pakistan remain banned, but doors open for multilateral events with eased visa rules for athletes. 

The Indian government has laid out its latest sports policy for Pakistan in an Office Memorandum issued on Wednesday (May 6), where they maintained a ban on facing or hosting Pakistan across any bilateral competitions; they, however, have formally allowed the Pakistani athletes and teams to come to India and compete on its soil in international multilateral events. In a ‘dual-track’ sports policy, the ruling government stated that ‘Pakistani players and teams will be able to participate in multilateral events hosted by India,’ while also easing out the visa application regime for athletes, officials and international federation representatives. Just more than a year after the Pahalgam terror attack and Operation Sindoor that followed, the eyebrow-raising government policy draws a firm line between the bilateral and multilateral sport and engagement between the arch rivals. “Insofar as bilateral sports events in each other’s country are concerned, Indian teams will not be participating in competitions in Pakistan. Nor will we permit Pakistani teams to play in India,” the memorandum read, while adding, “we are guided by the practices of international sports bodies and the interest of our own sportspersons.” The statement clearly underlines that both athletes and teams from India and Pakistan can now participate in international events on Indian soil, resuming cricket and other multi-disciplinary international sports in India. Per the government’s words, ‘India’s approach to sports events involving Pakistan reflects its overall policy in dealing with that country’. Also read | Despite WTC crown, SA spinner Harmer says BCCI’s ‘commercial power’ rules world cricket “With regard to international and multilateral events, in India or abroad, we are guided by the practices of international sports bodies and the interests of our own sportspersons. It is also relevant to take into account India’s emergence as a credible venue to host international sports events,” the memo further read. Moreover, this notification comes at a crucial point, when India is poised to host significant global tournaments in the next five years. Starting with the Commonwealth Games in 2030, besides being potential hosts of the 2036 Summer Games and 2038 Asian Games, for which the Olympic Council of Asia (OCA) officials will visit Ahmedabad to evaluate India’s bid. On the cricketing front, India will host the ICC Champions Trophy 2029 and the 2031 ODI World Cup. At the same time, the Indian and Pakistani athletes will face each other several times in the coming months, firstly at the Commonwealth Games in July-August and the Asian Games in September-October. Even in hockey, India and Pakistan will face off at least thrice in the next few months, in the FIH Pro Hockey League in London in late June (23 and 26) and again at the World Cup in Amsterdam on August 19. Meanwhile, the earliest the two countries will face each other is on June 14 for their Women’s T20 World Cup group game at Edgbaston in Birmingham. Visa applications to be simplified The Indian government also addressed the recurring friction point: visa applications. Amid holding ambitions of hosting significant global tournaments, the government said that the ‘sportspersons, team officials, technical personnel, and office-bearers of International Sports Governing Bodies shall be simplified.’ “This (simplified visa process) shall facilitate their smooth movement into and within the country, in accordance with international norms,” the memo further read.

The Indian government formalises a 'dual-track' sports policy: Bilateral ties with Pakistan remain banned, but doors open for multilateral events with eased visa rules for athletes.&nbsp;

No bilateral ties; Yes to global events: Indian govt clarifies sports policy for Pakistan

Mumbai Indians (MI) captain Hardik Pandya who earlier skipped travelling to Raipur for his team’s marquee away fixture against the Royal Challengers Bengaluru (RCB) on Monday (May 10) is set to arrive on Thursday. In what was thought to be a massive blow to the former five-time champions, Pandya will available for the crucial IPL 2026 match, with Mumbai needing to win their remaining four matches to stay afloat in the playoff race. As the MI squad assembled at Mumbai’s domestic T1 terminal to fly to Raipur, RCB’s second home venue this edition, there were no signs of Pandya, however, on Wednesday evening it was confirmed that the MI captain will travel to Raipur.&nbsp;&nbsp;Pandya missed out on playing the home game against the Lucknow Super Giants (LSG), with Suryakumar Yadav stepping up in his place. When asked about his sudden absence, SKY said, “He's not well tonight, so I'm just stepping into his shoes. But otherwise, everything is fine.”&nbsp;&nbsp;Also read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/sanju-samson-is-csk-backbone-batting-on-different-level-ruturaj-gaikwad-aaron-finch-csk-vs-dc-ipl-2026-orange-cap-standings-most-runs-1778058074784">‘He’s CSK backbone; batting on different level’: Samson receives massive praise after DC rout</a> &nbsp;Although the franchise confirmed the same in their official statement, saying, "Hardik Pandya is unwell with back spasm; hence Suryakumar Yadav is captain for today's game,” rumours of something more to this than just an injury were surfacing all across the internet. With MI failing to find results (despite top-notch resources) and Pandya also unable to click with the bat and ball, speculations were mounting that Pandya's absence may be more than physical, as questions arise regarding his long-term future as Mumbai Indians captain.&nbsp;&nbsp;However, with Pandya now set to land in Raipur on Thursday, it will be a major boost for the franchise as they set pace against defending IPL champions.&nbsp; &nbsp;Earlier, his teammate and the man-in-form, Ryan Rickelton, also updated on Pandya’s fitness and future availability after his match-winning knock and partnership in the previous game.&nbsp; &nbsp;"I don't know when he's expected to be back. I only found out this afternoon that he had back spasms. So I'm not aware of the extent of it - I wouldn't even call it an injury - or how serious it is or what he's feeling. But I'm sure he'll be back with the group as we head to Raipur this week," Rickelton said on his franchise captain. &nbsp;Meanwhile, MI are sitting in ninth place, with just three wins from 10 contested matches.

As the MI squad assembled at Mumbai’s domestic T1 terminal to fly to Raipur, RCB’s second home venue this edition, there were no signs of Hardik Pandya, however, on Wednesday evening it was confirmed that the MI captain will travel to Raipur. 

Mumbai Indians (MI) captain Hardik Pandya who earlier skipped travelling to Raipur for his team’s marquee away fixture against the Royal Challengers Bengaluru (RCB) on Monday (May 10) is set to arrive on Thursday. In what was thought to be a massive blow to the former five-time champions, Pandya will available for the crucial IPL 2026 match, with Mumbai needing to win their remaining four matches to stay afloat in the playoff race. As the MI squad assembled at Mumbai’s domestic T1 terminal to fly to Raipur, RCB’s second home venue this edition, there were no signs of Pandya, however, on Wednesday evening it was confirmed that the MI captain will travel to Raipur. Pandya missed out on playing the home game against the Lucknow Super Giants (LSG), with Suryakumar Yadav stepping up in his place. When asked about his sudden absence, SKY said, “He's not well tonight, so I'm just stepping into his shoes. But otherwise, everything is fine.” Also read | ‘He’s CSK backbone; batting on different level’: Samson receives massive praise after DC rout Although the franchise confirmed the same in their official statement, saying, "Hardik Pandya is unwell with back spasm; hence Suryakumar Yadav is captain for today's game,” rumours of something more to this than just an injury were surfacing all across the internet. With MI failing to find results (despite top-notch resources) and Pandya also unable to click with the bat and ball, speculations were mounting that Pandya's absence may be more than physical, as questions arise regarding his long-term future as Mumbai Indians captain. However, with Pandya now set to land in Raipur on Thursday, it will be a major boost for the franchise as they set pace against defending IPL champions. Earlier, his teammate and the man-in-form, Ryan Rickelton, also updated on Pandya’s fitness and future availability after his match-winning knock and partnership in the previous game. "I don't know when he's expected to be back. I only found out this afternoon that he had back spasms. So I'm not aware of the extent of it - I wouldn't even call it an injury - or how serious it is or what he's feeling. But I'm sure he'll be back with the group as we head to Raipur this week," Rickelton said on his franchise captain. Meanwhile, MI are sitting in ninth place, with just three wins from 10 contested matches.

As the MI squad assembled at Mumbai’s domestic T1 terminal to fly to Raipur, RCB’s second home venue this edition, there were no signs of Hardik Pandya, however, on Wednesday evening it was confirmed that the MI captain will travel to Raipur.&nbsp;

IPL 2026, RCB vs MI: Hardik Pandya to arrive in Raipur on Thursday, ahead of RCB fixture

CSK opener and keeper-batter Sanju Samson has quickly become the backbone of his new IPL team, his team captain, Ruturaj Gaikwad, said. Following his unbeaten 87 against the Delhi Capitals (DC) the other night, Samson breached the 400-run mark for this season for CSK in 10 outings, averaging just above 57 and striking at close to 160. Although he has yet to click with Gaikwad at the top, with CSK captain lagging in form, Samson has stitched a few match-winning stands with rookie batters, including Karthik Sharma. Former Australia T20I captain, Aaron Finch, also praised Samson, saying he is batting at a different level.

<blockquote class="twitter-tweet">A Sanju Samson alert that no bowler wants to see 🫣😬 🎥 <a href="https://twitter.com/ChennaiIPL?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@ChennaiIPL</a>&#39;s man in form is in the groove 😎 Updates ▶️ <a href="https://t.co/f1bRZthndy">https://t.co/f1bRZthndy</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/DCvCSK?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#DCvCSK</a> | <a href="https://twitter.com/IamSanjuSamson?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@IamSanjuSamson</a> <a href="https://t.co/jM0XAnVoLA">pic.twitter.com/jM0XAnVoLA</a>&mdash; IndianPremierLeague (@IPL) <a href="https://twitter.com/IPL/status/2051709741299335530?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">May 5, 2026</a></blockquote> <script async src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script>

Samson’s third 80-plus score this season resulted in an eight-wicket win for CSK against DC, their fifth overall, placing them sixth on the points table with 10 points. His run-scoring spree is a continuation of his purple patch during the fag end of the concluded T20 World Cup, which saw him win the Player of the Tournament award in India’s triumphant campaign.&nbsp;Also read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/cricket/ipl-2026-bcci-ensures-no-home-advantage-dc-coach-hemang-badani-on-four-losses-in-five-matches-1778054379286">IPL 2026 | 'BCCI ensures no home advantage': DC coach Hemang Badani on four losses in five matches</a> &nbsp;"On the batting side," Ruturaj said. "I would say, more than grateful to have Sanju in the side after the tournament he had even in the World Cup and even now. So, obviously, he's a backbone now." &nbsp;Samson’s move to Chennai was part of a blockbuster switch, which also included the trading of CSK veteran Ravindra Jadeja and their overseas quick Sam Curran to the Rajasthan Royals. Having struggled to find form and settle into his new IPL team’s setup, Samson failed in his early few games but found his mojo later, smashing two hundreds already for CSK.&nbsp; &nbsp;"He missed out on the first couple of games, didn't he? All of a sudden, there was a massive panic that what has CSK done," Finch said on ESPNcricinfo's TimeOut show.&nbsp; &nbsp;"They've got Sanju Samson, and he's not performing. Two games in T20 is nothing. To go right through a season ultra-consistent is so difficult. You probably can't underestimate the pressure on somebody going into a team like CSK. Being a huge marquee signing, particularly when you have traded someone like Jadeja out of the side as well.&nbsp; &nbsp;"This is what you're traded for and the superstar that you've been crying out for. So, the fact that he's batting on a different level is great to see,” he continued. &nbsp;Meanwhile, Samson has broken into the top five players with the most runs thus far this season. Sanju is in fifth place, with KL Rahul (445 runs), Abhishek Sharma (440 runs), Heinrich Klaasen (425 runs) and Vaibhav Sooryavanshi (404) ahead of him.&nbsp; &nbsp;

CSK skipper Ruturaj Gaikwad and ex-Australian opener Aaron Finch hail Sanju Samson's "different level" of batting after his match-winning 87 against DC. See how the T20 World Cup hero is leading Chennai's IPL 2026 playoff charge. 

CSK opener and keeper-batter Sanju Samson has quickly become the backbone of his new IPL team, his team captain, Ruturaj Gaikwad, said. Following his unbeaten 87 against the Delhi Capitals (DC) the other night, Samson breached the 400-run mark for this season for CSK in 10 outings, averaging just above 57 and striking at close to 160. Although he has yet to click with Gaikwad at the top, with CSK captain lagging in form, Samson has stitched a few match-winning stands with rookie batters, including Karthik Sharma. Former Australia T20I captain, Aaron Finch, also praised Samson, saying he is batting at a different level.

CSK skipper Ruturaj Gaikwad and ex-Australian opener Aaron Finch hail Sanju Samson's "different level" of batting after his match-winning 87 against DC. See how the T20 World Cup hero is leading Chennai's IPL 2026 playoff charge.&nbsp;

‘He’s CSK's backbone; batting on different level’: Samson receives massive praise after DC rout

Bengaluru has lost the hosting rights for the IPL 2026 final to Ahmedabad, while New Chandigarh hosts two playoff matches, including the Eliminator and Qualifier 2. The BCCI released a statement on Wednesday (May 6), suggesting why, under circumstances that were ‘beyond the scope of BCCI's established guidelines and protocols’, they have decided to move the finale from Bengaluru to Ahmedabad. The Narendra Modi Stadium will host the summit clash on May 31, while Dharamsala’s HPCA Stadium will stage the Qualifier 1 on May 26. The two matches in New Chandigarh would be Eliminator (May 27) and Qualifier 2 (May 29).&nbsp;"Owing to certain requirements from the local association and authorities that were beyond the scope of BCCI's established guidelines and protocols, the venue has been shifted and reassigned," a BCCI statement read. "Owing to certain operational and logistical considerations, the TATA IPL 2026 Playoffs will be conducted across three venues this season as a special case," it continued.&nbsp;Also read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/dc-vs-csk-calculative-chennai-super-kings-cruise-past-delhi-capitals-to-climb-to-6th-in-ipl-standings-karthik-sharma-lungi-ngidi-1778003232325">Calculative Chennai cruise past Delhi to climb to 6th in IPL standings</a> &nbsp;Last season, only two venues hosted the IPL playoff matches: New Chandigarh and Ahmedabad.&nbsp; &nbsp;Meanwhile, unlike how the defending champions’ home venue usually hosts the next season’s finale, with Bengaluru picked to stage this time, a last-minute change sees Ahmedabad hosting the IPL 2026 grand finale. Should the defending IPL champions, RCB, make it that far, they will not have the home advantage.&nbsp; &nbsp;Bengaluru’s M Chinnaswamy Stadium have hosted five league matches this season, with RCB winning four, with their only defeat coming against Delhi Capitals (DC) last month. Raipur, their second home venue, will host their remaining two IPL home games this season.&nbsp; &nbsp;Rajat Patidar-led RCB is currently second on the points table with 12 points from nine contested matches, and well-placed to qualify for the knockouts. Punjab Kings are, however, leading the points table with 13 points from as many games.&nbsp; &nbsp;SunRisers Hyderabad (SRH), Gujarat Titans (GT) and Rajasthan Royals (RR) are tied with RCB on 12 points.&nbsp;

BCCI shifts the IPL 2026 Final from Bengaluru to Ahmedabad, citing "operational considerations." See the full playoff schedule for New Chandigarh, Dharamsala, and the Narendra Modi Stadium.

Bengaluru has lost the hosting rights for the IPL 2026 final to Ahmedabad, while New Chandigarh hosts two playoff matches, including the Eliminator and Qualifier 2. The BCCI released a statement on Wednesday (May 6), suggesting why, under circumstances that were ‘beyond the scope of BCCI's established guidelines and protocols’, they have decided to move the finale from Bengaluru to Ahmedabad. The Narendra Modi Stadium will host the summit clash on May 31, while Dharamsala’s HPCA Stadium will stage the Qualifier 1 on May 26. The two matches in New Chandigarh would be Eliminator (May 27) and Qualifier 2 (May 29). "Owing to certain requirements from the local association and authorities that were beyond the scope of BCCI's established guidelines and protocols, the venue has been shifted and reassigned," a BCCI statement read. "Owing to certain operational and logistical considerations, the TATA IPL 2026 Playoffs will be conducted across three venues this season as a special case," it continued. Also read | Calculative Chennai cruise past Delhi to climb to 6th in IPL standings Last season, only two venues hosted the IPL playoff matches: New Chandigarh and Ahmedabad. Meanwhile, unlike how the defending champions’ home venue usually hosts the next season’s finale, with Bengaluru picked to stage this time, a last-minute change sees Ahmedabad hosting the IPL 2026 grand finale. Should the defending IPL champions, RCB, make it that far, they will not have the home advantage. Bengaluru’s M Chinnaswamy Stadium have hosted five league matches this season, with RCB winning four, with their only defeat coming against Delhi Capitals (DC) last month. Raipur, their second home venue, will host their remaining two IPL home games this season. Rajat Patidar-led RCB is currently second on the points table with 12 points from nine contested matches, and well-placed to qualify for the knockouts. Punjab Kings are, however, leading the points table with 13 points from as many games. SunRisers Hyderabad (SRH), Gujarat Titans (GT) and Rajasthan Royals (RR) are tied with RCB on 12 points.

BCCI shifts the IPL 2026 Final from Bengaluru to Ahmedabad, citing "operational considerations." See the full playoff schedule for New Chandigarh, Dharamsala, and the Narendra Modi Stadium.

BCCI shifts IPL 2026 final venue from Bengaluru to Ahmedabad; New Chandigarh to host 2 playoff matches

Delhi Capitals have played 10 matches in the IPL 2026 and five of them have came at home - Arun Jaitely Stadium. DC, however, have managed to win only four games this season and only one out of those wins have come at home ground. DC coach Hemang Badani, after the loss against Chennai Super Kings (CSK) on a pitch which turned and gripped. DC are currently seventh on the points table with eight points from four wins and six losses in 10 matches played this season. The time is running out for them to make a push for playoffs and the home losses haven't helped a lot to further their cause.<h2>DC coach speaks on home pitch and losses</h2>Speaking after the eight-wicket loss vs CSK on Tuesday (May 5), DC coach Badani said about pitch: "We don't have any control over the surfaces. As much as one would like to think that we are in control of the surface that we want to play on, there is a clear mandate from the BCCI that they look after the surfaces and they are the ones who ensure that there's no local side that gets benefit out of the surfaces. So you play what is presented to you. And yes, it's been a bit of an up-and-down curve for us to understand what we are going to get at Delhi, which is our home."Also Read - <a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/bcci-plans-to-flush-out-girlfriend-culture-in-ipl-amid-internal-leaks-risk-hardik-pandya-girlfriend-arshdeep-singh-ishan-kishan-wags-policy-1777997375017">BCCI plans to flush out IPL's ‘girlfriend culture’ amid internal leaks risk</a><h2>How has Delhi pitch performed this season?</h2>The most drastic matches in Delhi were played on April 25 and 27. In the first match against Punjab Kings, played in daytime, DC scored 264/2 which was trumped by PBKS as they scored 265/4 in 18.5 overs. On April 27, played during evening, DC were bowled out for 75 against Royals Challengers Bengaluru which the defending champions chased in 6.3 overs for loss of one wicket. In match against Gujarat Titans on April 8, DC almost fell short of 210 total by just one run - a loss which could come back to haunt them in playoff race. In season's first match at Arun Jaitley stadium against Mumbai Indians, DC chased down 163-run target in 18.1 overs with six wickets in hand. Against CSK, DC batting faltered once again as they lost by eight wickets.

In five matches played at Arun Jaitely Stadium in IPL 2026, home team Delhi Capitals have won just one and lost four including against CSK on Tuesday (May 5).

Delhi Capitals have played 10 matches in the IPL 2026 and five of them have came at home - Arun Jaitely Stadium. DC, however, have managed to win only four games this season and only one out of those wins have come at home ground. DC coach Hemang Badani, after the loss against Chennai Super Kings (CSK) on a pitch which turned and gripped. DC are currently seventh on the points table with eight points from four wins and six losses in 10 matches played this season. The time is running out for them to make a push for playoffs and the home losses haven't helped a lot to further their cause. DC coach speaks on home pitch and losses Speaking after the eight-wicket loss vs CSK on Tuesday (May 5), DC coach Badani said about pitch: "We don't have any control over the surfaces. As much as one would like to think that we are in control of the surface that we want to play on, there is a clear mandate from the BCCI that they look after the surfaces and they are the ones who ensure that there's no local side that gets benefit out of the surfaces. So you play what is presented to you. And yes, it's been a bit of an up-and-down curve for us to understand what we are going to get at Delhi, which is our home." Also Read - BCCI plans to flush out IPL's ‘girlfriend culture’ amid internal leaks risk How has Delhi pitch performed this season? The most drastic matches in Delhi were played on April 25 and 27. In the first match against Punjab Kings, played in daytime, DC scored 264/2 which was trumped by PBKS as they scored 265/4 in 18.5 overs. On April 27, played during evening, DC were bowled out for 75 against Royals Challengers Bengaluru which the defending champions chased in 6.3 overs for loss of one wicket. In match against Gujarat Titans on April 8, DC almost fell short of 210 total by just one run - a loss which could come back to haunt them in playoff race. In season's first match at Arun Jaitley stadium against Mumbai Indians, DC chased down 163-run target in 18.1 overs with six wickets in hand. Against CSK, DC batting faltered once again as they lost by eight wickets.

In five matches played at Arun Jaitely Stadium in IPL 2026, home team Delhi Capitals have won just one and lost four including against CSK on Tuesday (May 5).

IPL 2026 | 'BCCI ensures no home advantage': DC coach Hemang Badani on four losses in five matches

Real Madrid and France superstar Kylian Mbappe's team has issued a statement following the footballer's criticism over travelling to Italy for a weekend getaway with actor girlfriend Ester Exposito. Mbappe was questioned by fans online over his commitment to Real Madrid before the upcoming El Clasico against Barcelona on Sunday (May 10) in Spanish La Liga. Barca, with four rounds to go and 11 points clear of Real Madrid, will lift the trophy if they avoid defeat vs Real Madrid on Sunday. Fans, meanwhile, are of opinion that Mbappe, who is recovering from an injury, is saving himself for the upcoming FIFA World Cup 2026 which starts in nearly a month's time on June 11 in USA, Canada, and Mexico.<h2>What Mbappe said about travelling to Italy?</h2>The statement issued by Mbappe's team after photos of him and his girlfriend's Italy trip drew criticism on social media, read: "Part of the criticism is based on an over-interpretation of elements related to a recovery period strictly supervised by the club, ­without reflecting the reality of Kylian’s commitment and the work he puts in every day for the team."Also See - <a href="https://www.wionews.com/photos/champions-league-who-is-leading-the-golden-boot-in-ongoing-season-check-complete-list-1777962671901">Champions League | Who is leading the golden boot race in ongoing season? check list</a>The Madrid fans, a few of them, meanwhile have started an online petition for Mbappe to be sold over concerns that the French player is saving himself for the World Cup."If you believe change is necessary, do not remain silent: sign this petition and defend what you believe is best for the future of the club," reads the petition doing rounds on social media.Mbappe is currently going recovering from a hamstring injury which he suffered against Real Betis on April 24. His absence also played a role in Real Madrid's exit from Champions League where he has the season-high 15 goals.<h2>What next for Real Madrid?</h2>Apart from the El Clasico on coming Sunday, there's nothing much going on for Real Madrid. They are 11 short of Barcelona's tally in La Liga and have already exited from Copa Del Rey as well as Champions League. With the football season coming to an end across the globe, all eyes are settled on the upcoming FIFA World Cup 2026.

The Madrid fans, a few of them, meanwhile have started an online petition for Mbappe to be sold over concerns that the French player is saving himself for the World Cup.

Real Madrid and France superstar Kylian Mbappe's team has issued a statement following the footballer's criticism over travelling to Italy for a weekend getaway with actor girlfriend Ester Exposito. Mbappe was questioned by fans online over his commitment to Real Madrid before the upcoming El Clasico against Barcelona on Sunday (May 10) in Spanish La Liga. Barca, with four rounds to go and 11 points clear of Real Madrid, will lift the trophy if they avoid defeat vs Real Madrid on Sunday. Fans, meanwhile, are of opinion that Mbappe, who is recovering from an injury, is saving himself for the upcoming FIFA World Cup 2026 which starts in nearly a month's time on June 11 in USA, Canada, and Mexico. What Mbappe said about travelling to Italy? The statement issued by Mbappe's team after photos of him and his girlfriend's Italy trip drew criticism on social media, read: "Part of the criticism is based on an over-interpretation of elements related to a recovery period strictly supervised by the club, without reflecting the reality of Kylian’s commitment and the work he puts in every day for the team." Also See - Champions League | Who is leading the golden boot race in ongoing season? check list The Madrid fans, a few of them, meanwhile have started an online petition for Mbappe to be sold over concerns that the French player is saving himself for the World Cup. "If you believe change is necessary, do not remain silent: sign this petition and defend what you believe is best for the future of the club," reads the petition doing rounds on social media. Mbappe is currently going recovering from a hamstring injury which he suffered against Real Betis on April 24. His absence also played a role in Real Madrid's exit from Champions League where he has the season-high 15 goals. What next for Real Madrid? Apart from the El Clasico on coming Sunday, there's nothing much going on for Real Madrid. They are 11 short of Barcelona's tally in La Liga and have already exited from Copa Del Rey as well as Champions League. With the football season coming to an end across the globe, all eyes are settled on the upcoming FIFA World Cup 2026.

The Madrid fans, a few of them, meanwhile have started an online petition for Mbappe to be sold over concerns that the French player is saving himself for the World Cup.

Kylian Mbappe issues statement after criticism for weekend trip with actor girlfriend amid injury recovery

The Minnesota Timberwolves won the first game of conference semi-final series in NBA playoffs against the San Antonio Spurs on Tuesday (May 5) but questioned Victor Wembanyama's blocking. The Spurs star managed a playoff record 12 blocks in Game 1 of best-of-seven series which the Wolves won by barest of margin as the final tally read 104-102. &nbsp;Wolves coach Chris Finch also questioned refereeing in the game and so did Wembanyama's French teammate Rudy Gobert who plays for Minnesota in the NBA.<h2>Were Wembanyama's blocks legit vs Wolves?</h2>The Wolves trailed in two of the first three quarters of the game against the Spurs but managed to outscore San Antonio in the final 12 minutes to come out triumphant. That would not have been the case if, according to Minnesota coach Finch, Wembanyama's blocks were properly judged.Also Read - <a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/fifa-invites-iran-to-headquarters-by-may-20-to-prepare-for-world-cup-north-america-usa-donald-trump-israel-1777987807215">FIFA invites Iran to headquarters by May 20 ‘to prepare for World Cup’</a>"To me, it’s a little alarming that none of them were called. Here’s a generational shot blocker … and there’s no heightened awareness that these blocks could be goaltends? The third possession of the game is a goaltend. A clear, obvious one. So let’s just say there were four [violations], that’s eight points. You know the value of eight points in an NBA game? It’s massive. That means 33% of his blocks were goaltending uncalled. If I were to give you a 33% raise, you’d like that, right? It’s a huge number," said Finch after the narrow win.Gobert also sided with his coach against his France teammate and said: "He fouled me on the first one. But if you look at them, probably three or four [goaltends]."<h2>How Timberwolves managed to win?</h2>Minnesota scored 24 points in 1Q against Spurs' 23. In the next two quarters, the Timberwolves managed 21 and 24, respectively and the Spurs scored 22 and 27 points. Trailing by three points going into the final 12 minutes, Minnesota scored 35 points against San Antonio's 30 and won the game by two points.For Spurs, Julian Champagnie and Stephon Castle scored 17 points each while Dylan Harper managed 18 and Wembanyama dropped 11 to go with his 12 blocks. For Minnesota, Julius Randle scored 21 points, Anthony Edwards scored 18 and Jaden McDaniels as well as Terrence Shannon Jr. scored 16 each.

Spurs' Wembanyama managed a playoff record 12 blocks in Game 1 of best-of-seven series which the Wolves won by barest of margin as the final tally read 104-102. 

The Minnesota Timberwolves won the first game of conference semi-final series in NBA playoffs against the San Antonio Spurs on Tuesday (May 5) but questioned Victor Wembanyama's blocking. The Spurs star managed a playoff record 12 blocks in Game 1 of best-of-seven series which the Wolves won by barest of margin as the final tally read 104-102. Wolves coach Chris Finch also questioned refereeing in the game and so did Wembanyama's French teammate Rudy Gobert who plays for Minnesota in the NBA. Were Wembanyama's blocks legit vs Wolves? The Wolves trailed in two of the first three quarters of the game against the Spurs but managed to outscore San Antonio in the final 12 minutes to come out triumphant. That would not have been the case if, according to Minnesota coach Finch, Wembanyama's blocks were properly judged. Also Read - FIFA invites Iran to headquarters by May 20 ‘to prepare for World Cup’ "To me, it’s a little alarming that none of them were called. Here’s a generational shot blocker … and there’s no heightened awareness that these blocks could be goaltends? The third possession of the game is a goaltend. A clear, obvious one. So let’s just say there were four [violations], that’s eight points. You know the value of eight points in an NBA game? It’s massive. That means 33% of his blocks were goaltending uncalled. If I were to give you a 33% raise, you’d like that, right? It’s a huge number," said Finch after the narrow win. Gobert also sided with his coach against his France teammate and said: "He fouled me on the first one. But if you look at them, probably three or four [goaltends]." How Timberwolves managed to win? Minnesota scored 24 points in 1Q against Spurs' 23. In the next two quarters, the Timberwolves managed 21 and 24, respectively and the Spurs scored 22 and 27 points. Trailing by three points going into the final 12 minutes, Minnesota scored 35 points against San Antonio's 30 and won the game by two points. For Spurs, Julian Champagnie and Stephon Castle scored 17 points each while Dylan Harper managed 18 and Wembanyama dropped 11 to go with his 12 blocks. For Minnesota, Julius Randle scored 21 points, Anthony Edwards scored 18 and Jaden McDaniels as well as Terrence Shannon Jr. scored 16 each.

Spurs' Wembanyama managed a playoff record 12 blocks in Game 1 of conference semis best-of-seven series which the Wolves won by barest of margin as the final tally read 104-102.&nbsp;

NBA Playoffs | 'Goaltending uncalled': Wolves question Wembanyama's record 12 blocks in Game 1 of conference semis

Chennai Super Kings (CSK) beat Delhi Capitals (DC) by eight wickets in IPL 2026 match on Tuesday (May 5) at Arun Jaitley stadium in Delhi. Chasing a modest 156-run target, CSK reached their in 17.3 overs, thanks to Sanju Samson's 87 not out off 52 balls and Kartik Sharma's 31-ball 41. With the win, CSK moved past DC on the points table as well. The five-time champions are now sixth on the leaderboard with 10 points from five wins and five losses in 10 matches. DC, meanwhile, have slid to seventh spot with eight points from four wins and six losses in 10 matches, latest of which came against CSK.<h2>Samson leads charge for CSK's win</h2>CSK were never in trouble during the modest 150-odd chase despite losing skipper Ruturaj Gaikwad (6) inside powerplay. Urvil Patel, who replaced Gaikwad at the crease, was also dismissed right after powerplay with CSK being 45/2. Samson and Kartik, however, then added 114 unbeaten runs in 11 overs to take the team home with 15 balls and eight wickets to spare.Also Read - <a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/despite-2025-wtc-crown-south-africa-spinner-simon-harmer-says-bcci-commercial-power-rules-world-cricket-indian-cricket-board-icc-1778001444117">Despite WTC win, SA's Harmer says BCCI’s ‘commercial power’ rules world cricket</a>For DC, skipper Axar Patel took 1/25 while Lungi Ngidi took 1/30 and no other bowler could take a wicket, showing dominance of Samson-Kartik partnership.<h2>DC batting flops again</h2>The home team did not have much right going on for them as they lost both openers, Pathum Nissanka (19) and KL Rahul (12), inside powerplay. The next three batters, Nitish Rana (15), Karun Nair (13), and Axar (2) also failed reach 20-run mark as Delhi slid to 69/5 in 11 overs. Tristan Stubbs (38 off 31) and impact player Sameer Rizvi (unbeaten 40 off 24) then added 65 runs for the sixth wicket in about eight overs to take the team past 130. Ashutosh Sharma's handy cameo of 14 off 5 balls ensured DC finish past 150. For CSK, Noor Ahmed took 2/22 while Akeal Hosein, Mukesh Choudhary, Gurjapneet Singh, and Jamie Overton took one wicket each.

CSK beat DC by 8 wickets on Tuesday (May 5) in IPL 2026 match to move to sixth place on the points table with 10 points from 5 wins and as many losses in 10 matches. DC, on the other hand, have slid to 7th spot with 8 points from 10 matches.

Chennai Super Kings (CSK) beat Delhi Capitals (DC) by eight wickets in IPL 2026 match on Tuesday (May 5) at Arun Jaitley stadium in Delhi. Chasing a modest 156-run target, CSK reached their in 17.3 overs, thanks to Sanju Samson's 87 not out off 52 balls and Kartik Sharma's 31-ball 41. With the win, CSK moved past DC on the points table as well. The five-time champions are now sixth on the leaderboard with 10 points from five wins and five losses in 10 matches. DC, meanwhile, have slid to seventh spot with eight points from four wins and six losses in 10 matches, latest of which came against CSK. Samson leads charge for CSK's win CSK were never in trouble during the modest 150-odd chase despite losing skipper Ruturaj Gaikwad (6) inside powerplay. Urvil Patel, who replaced Gaikwad at the crease, was also dismissed right after powerplay with CSK being 45/2. Samson and Kartik, however, then added 114 unbeaten runs in 11 overs to take the team home with 15 balls and eight wickets to spare. Also Read - Despite WTC win, SA's Harmer says BCCI’s ‘commercial power’ rules world cricket For DC, skipper Axar Patel took 1/25 while Lungi Ngidi took 1/30 and no other bowler could take a wicket, showing dominance of Samson-Kartik partnership. DC batting flops again The home team did not have much right going on for them as they lost both openers, Pathum Nissanka (19) and KL Rahul (12), inside powerplay. The next three batters, Nitish Rana (15), Karun Nair (13), and Axar (2) also failed reach 20-run mark as Delhi slid to 69/5 in 11 overs. Tristan Stubbs (38 off 31) and impact player Sameer Rizvi (unbeaten 40 off 24) then added 65 runs for the sixth wicket in about eight overs to take the team past 130. Ashutosh Sharma's handy cameo of 14 off 5 balls ensured DC finish past 150. For CSK, Noor Ahmed took 2/22 while Akeal Hosein, Mukesh Choudhary, Gurjapneet Singh, and Jamie Overton took one wicket each.

CSK beat DC by 8 wickets on Tuesday (May 5) in IPL 2026 match to move to sixth place on the points table with 10 points from 5 wins and as many losses in 10 matches. DC, on the other hand, have slid to 7th spot with 8 points from 10 matches.

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

Arsenal reached the Champions League final for the first time in 20 years as Bukayo Saka sealed a 1-0 win against Atletico Madrid on Tuesday. Mikel Arteta's side settled the semi-final second leg with Saka's strike late in the first half at an ecstatic Emirates Stadium. The Gunners, who drew 1-1 in the first leg in Madrid last week, held firm after Saka's goal to go through 2-1 on aggregate. Arsenal will face Paris Saint-Germain or Bayern Munich in the final in Budapest on May 30.Holders PSG, who beat Arsenal in the semi-finals last year, have a 5-4 lead ahead of the second leg in Munich on Wednesday.It was a cathartic night for Arsenal, who are back in the Champions League final for the first time since losing 2-1 to Barcelona in their only previous appearance in the showpiece in 2006.Arsenal have never won the Champions League, with their two major European trophies coming in the 1994 Cup Winners' Cup and the 1970 Inter-Cities Fairs Cup.Their last continental final ended in a 4-1 defeat against Chelsea in the 2019 Europa League.It is shaping up to be Arsenal's greatest ever season as they chase a Premier League and Champions League double.Even Arsene Wenger's 'Invincibles' -- who won the club's last English title in an unbeaten top-flight campaign in 2004 -- might have to bow to the current generation if they finish the job.Fittingly, it was Saka -- the homegrown symbol of the Arteta era -- who proved Arsenal's match-winner.Now just four games from immortality, Premier League leaders Arsenal were given a huge boost in the title race when second-placed Manchester City drew at Everton on Monday.The Gunners will be crowned champions if they win their last three games against West Ham, Burnley and Crystal Palace.Once the title is decided, Arsenal will head to Hungary with a maiden Champions League crown in their sights.Arsenal endured jibes about their perceived lack of mental strength after a run of four defeats in six games in all competitions sparked painful memories of previous failures to end their six-year wait for silverware.But the 'nearly-men' and 'serial choker' labels applied only weeks ago are on the verge of being banished forever.<h2>Jubilant Arteta</h2>Thousands of Arsenal supporters massed outside the stadium before kick-off to greet their team with flares and flags, a vociferous display of affection underlining Arsenal's desperation to make history.It was the kind of evening in north London, when nothing was beyond the realm of possibility as Arsenal moved closer to casting off the shackles of two decades of underachievement.After some tense performances during the Premier League run-in, Saturday's 3-0 rout of Fulham had showed Arsenal at their flowing best in a riposte to the critics who claim they only win ugly.This was a more prosaic display but no-one with an affinity to Arsenal was bothered in the slightest.Arsenal were nearly caught on the counter in a frenetic start when Julian Alvarez shot just wide before Giuliano Simeone's close-range effort deflected past the post.But Arsenal recovered from those anxious moments to deliver a dominant spell that brought their 44th minute goal.Viktor Gyokeres' clever run unhinged the Atletico defence and his cross reached Leandro Trossard inside the area.Trossard wriggled into just enough space for a low drive that Jan Oblak weakly pushed out to Saka, who reacted quicker than his flat-footed markers to slot home from four yards.Arteta jubilantly punched the air as all around him the Emirates erupted into a roiling red sea of celebration.Atletico tried to ruin the party in the second half, but Gabriel Magalhaes made a last-ditch tackle on Simeone to avert a certain goal before David Raya repelled Antoine Griezmann's blast.Arteta recently revealed he visualised Arsenal conquering the Champions League even in the difficult early days of his reign.The Spaniard now is just one win away from seeing that daydream become a glorious reality.

The Gunners, who drew 1-1 in the first leg in Madrid last week, held firm after Saka's goal to go through 2-1 on aggregate. Arsenal will face Paris Saint-Germain or Bayern Munich in the final in Budapest on May 30.

Arsenal reached the Champions League final for the first time in 20 years as Bukayo Saka sealed a 1-0 win against Atletico Madrid on Tuesday. Mikel Arteta's side settled the semi-final second leg with Saka's strike late in the first half at an ecstatic Emirates Stadium. The Gunners, who drew 1-1 in the first leg in Madrid last week, held firm after Saka's goal to go through 2-1 on aggregate. Arsenal will face Paris Saint-Germain or Bayern Munich in the final in Budapest on May 30. Holders PSG, who beat Arsenal in the semi-finals last year, have a 5-4 lead ahead of the second leg in Munich on Wednesday. It was a cathartic night for Arsenal, who are back in the Champions League final for the first time since losing 2-1 to Barcelona in their only previous appearance in the showpiece in 2006. Arsenal have never won the Champions League, with their two major European trophies coming in the 1994 Cup Winners' Cup and the 1970 Inter-Cities Fairs Cup. Their last continental final ended in a 4-1 defeat against Chelsea in the 2019 Europa League. It is shaping up to be Arsenal's greatest ever season as they chase a Premier League and Champions League double. Even Arsene Wenger's 'Invincibles' -- who won the club's last English title in an unbeaten top-flight campaign in 2004 -- might have to bow to the current generation if they finish the job. Fittingly, it was Saka -- the homegrown symbol of the Arteta era -- who proved Arsenal's match-winner. Now just four games from immortality, Premier League leaders Arsenal were given a huge boost in the title race when second-placed Manchester City drew at Everton on Monday. The Gunners will be crowned champions if they win their last three games against West Ham, Burnley and Crystal Palace. Once the title is decided, Arsenal will head to Hungary with a maiden Champions League crown in their sights. Arsenal endured jibes about their perceived lack of mental strength after a run of four defeats in six games in all competitions sparked painful memories of previous failures to end their six-year wait for silverware. But the 'nearly-men' and 'serial choker' labels applied only weeks ago are on the verge of being banished forever. Jubilant Arteta Thousands of Arsenal supporters massed outside the stadium before kick-off to greet their team with flares and flags, a vociferous display of affection underlining Arsenal's desperation to make history. It was the kind of evening in north London, when nothing was beyond the realm of possibility as Arsenal moved closer to casting off the shackles of two decades of underachievement. After some tense performances during the Premier League run-in, Saturday's 3-0 rout of Fulham had showed Arsenal at their flowing best in a riposte to the critics who claim they only win ugly. This was a more prosaic display but no-one with an affinity to Arsenal was bothered in the slightest. Arsenal were nearly caught on the counter in a frenetic start when Julian Alvarez shot just wide before Giuliano Simeone's close-range effort deflected past the post. But Arsenal recovered from those anxious moments to deliver a dominant spell that brought their 44th minute goal. Viktor Gyokeres' clever run unhinged the Atletico defence and his cross reached Leandro Trossard inside the area. Trossard wriggled into just enough space for a low drive that Jan Oblak weakly pushed out to Saka, who reacted quicker than his flat-footed markers to slot home from four yards. Arteta jubilantly punched the air as all around him the Emirates erupted into a roiling red sea of celebration. Atletico tried to ruin the party in the second half, but Gabriel Magalhaes made a last-ditch tackle on Simeone to avert a certain goal before David Raya repelled Antoine Griezmann's blast. Arteta recently revealed he visualised Arsenal conquering the Champions League even in the difficult early days of his reign. The Spaniard now is just one win away from seeing that daydream become a glorious reality.

The Gunners, who drew 1-1 in the first leg in Madrid last week, held firm after Saka's goal to go through 2-1 on aggregate. Arsenal will face Paris Saint-Germain or Bayern Munich in the final in Budapest on May 30.

Champions League | Arsenal beat Atletico to enter first final in 20 years

Chennai Super Kings (CSK) have jumped to the sixth spot on the IPL 2026 points table after a comfortable yet calculative eight-wicket win over the hosts Delhi Capitals on Tuesday (May 5). Sanju Samson starred with the bat, smashing another match-winning fifty (87*), with newbie Karthik Sharma impressing with another instrumental outing. Karthik scored an unbeaten 41 off 31 balls, hitting two maximums and four fours. For Delhi, seamer Lungi Ngidi returned to the action but failed to guide his team home.&nbsp;Delhi won the toss and elected to bat first. Unlike on previous occasions when DC openers used to fire all cylinders, CSK’s new-ball attack restricted them from going all out this time. While Mukesh Choudhary accounted for Pathum Nissanka on 19, Akeal Hossain dismissed in-form batter KL Rahul on just 12. Noor Ahmed was quick to remove Nitish Rana and Karun Nair before Gurjapneet picked up the prized wicket of Delhi captain Axar Patel cheaply. Delhi was reeling at 69 for five at one stage.&nbsp;&nbsp;Also read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/despite-2025-wtc-crown-south-africa-spinner-simon-harmer-says-bcci-commercial-power-rules-world-cricket-indian-cricket-board-icc-1778001444117">Despite WTC crown, SA spinner Harmer says BCCI’s ‘commercial power’ rules world cricket</a> &nbsp;Tristan Stubbs and Sameer Rizvi revived Delhi’s innings, scoring 38 and 40*, respectively. Ashutosh Sharma walked in late and helped DC’s score 155 for seven in the first innings.<h3>Samson's show all the way!</h3>Sanju Samson was again the talking point of CSK’s success in this game. After losing team captain Ruturaj Gaikwad early inside the Powerplay, Samson grabbed all the limelight with his sweet strokeplay. Urvil Patel helped the cause with two sixes during his brief stay but departed soon after on just 17.&nbsp; &nbsp;Walks in Karthik, the uncapped rookie, who has been making the right noises in IPL. Alongside Sanju, he took care of one end and smashed boundaries off bad balls. Samson, however, continued his rich vein of form, completing another fifty and securing a comfortable win for his team.

Sanju Samson’s unbeaten 87 and Karthik Sharma’s explosive 41* guide Chennai Super Kings to a dominant 8-wicket win over Delhi Capitals. See the latest IPL 2026 points table updates.

Chennai Super Kings (CSK) have jumped to the sixth spot on the IPL 2026 points table after a comfortable yet calculative eight-wicket win over the hosts Delhi Capitals on Tuesday (May 5). Sanju Samson starred with the bat, smashing another match-winning fifty (87*), with newbie Karthik Sharma impressing with another instrumental outing. Karthik scored an unbeaten 41 off 31 balls, hitting two maximums and four fours. For Delhi, seamer Lungi Ngidi returned to the action but failed to guide his team home. Delhi won the toss and elected to bat first. Unlike on previous occasions when DC openers used to fire all cylinders, CSK’s new-ball attack restricted them from going all out this time. While Mukesh Choudhary accounted for Pathum Nissanka on 19, Akeal Hossain dismissed in-form batter KL Rahul on just 12. Noor Ahmed was quick to remove Nitish Rana and Karun Nair before Gurjapneet picked up the prized wicket of Delhi captain Axar Patel cheaply. Delhi was reeling at 69 for five at one stage. Also read | Despite WTC crown, SA spinner Harmer says BCCI’s ‘commercial power’ rules world cricket Tristan Stubbs and Sameer Rizvi revived Delhi’s innings, scoring 38 and 40*, respectively. Ashutosh Sharma walked in late and helped DC’s score 155 for seven in the first innings. Samson's show all the way! Sanju Samson was again the talking point of CSK’s success in this game. After losing team captain Ruturaj Gaikwad early inside the Powerplay, Samson grabbed all the limelight with his sweet strokeplay. Urvil Patel helped the cause with two sixes during his brief stay but departed soon after on just 17. Walks in Karthik, the uncapped rookie, who has been making the right noises in IPL. Alongside Sanju, he took care of one end and smashed boundaries off bad balls. Samson, however, continued his rich vein of form, completing another fifty and securing a comfortable win for his team.

Sanju Samson’s unbeaten 87 and Karthik Sharma’s explosive 41* guide Chennai Super Kings to a dominant 8-wicket win over Delhi Capitals. See the latest IPL 2026 points table updates.

Calculative Chennai cruise past Delhi to climb to 6th in IPL standings

South Africa ended their ICC trophy drought with their maiden World Test Championship (WTC) crown last year at Lord’s, where they beat Australia by five wickets. Later in the year, they also whitewashed India (beating them 2-0) in India for the first time in over two decades, scripting history. While 2025 was clearly South Africa’s year, their frontline spinner Simon Harmer had reservations against the Indian Cricket Board’s growing influence, saying that the BCCI controls the apex body, the ICC, but what can anyone do about it?&nbsp;Speaking to The Guardian, the right-arm spinner, who returned with 17 wickets across four innings in India, underlined India’s dominance in world cricket and how, by controlling the commercial and administrative aspects of it, it stands tall as the game’s reigning king.&nbsp;Also read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/bcci-plans-to-flush-out-girlfriend-culture-in-ipl-amid-internal-leaks-risk-hardik-pandya-girlfriend-arshdeep-singh-ishan-kishan-wags-policy-1777997375017">BCCI plans to flush out ‘girlfriend culture’ in IPL amid internal leaks risk – Report</a> &nbsp;Harmer, however, also argued that the Proteas’ WTC title win hadn’t significantly altered the global balance. &nbsp;“Because of their commercial power, they have all of the power,” Harmer said in a chat with The Guardian. “The BCCI control the ICC. But what can we do? As a player, you just control the controllables. The only thing that changes the narrative is winning trophies.” &nbsp;While the domestic giant also spoke highly of his team’s rise as a threatening Test unit, Harmer praised head coach Shukri Conrad for calling a spade a spade. &nbsp;“That team is more than the sum of its parts with only a couple of superstars,” he said. On Conrad, Harmer said, “If he thinks you’re shit, he’ll tell you straight. I rate that. I’ve not always had that.”<h3>South Africa’s 2026 schedule</h3>The reigning WTC champions will begin their 2026 campaign against the mighty Aussies in a three-match Test series at home, for the first time since 2018, the year of the infamous 'Sandpaper-gate' scandal. After hosting Australia across three Tests, South Africa will also host Bangladesh and England during the packed home season. &nbsp;As things stand, South Africa is third on the 2025-27 WTC rankings, with a point percentage of 75. Australia and New Zealand are ahead of the Proteas. However, on ICC’s Test rankings, the Proteas are second on the table (after Australia), and 15 points ahead of the third-placed India.

Despite their historic WTC victory and a landmark whitewash in India, South African spinner Simon Harmer warns that the BCCI’s "commercial power" still dictates world cricket.

South Africa ended their ICC trophy drought with their maiden World Test Championship (WTC) crown last year at Lord’s, where they beat Australia by five wickets. Later in the year, they also whitewashed India (beating them 2-0) in India for the first time in over two decades, scripting history. While 2025 was clearly South Africa’s year, their frontline spinner Simon Harmer had reservations against the Indian Cricket Board’s growing influence, saying that the BCCI controls the apex body, the ICC, but what can anyone do about it? Speaking to The Guardian, the right-arm spinner, who returned with 17 wickets across four innings in India, underlined India’s dominance in world cricket and how, by controlling the commercial and administrative aspects of it, it stands tall as the game’s reigning king. Also read | BCCI plans to flush out ‘girlfriend culture’ in IPL amid internal leaks risk – Report Harmer, however, also argued that the Proteas’ WTC title win hadn’t significantly altered the global balance. “Because of their commercial power, they have all of the power,” Harmer said in a chat with The Guardian. “The BCCI control the ICC. But what can we do? As a player, you just control the controllables. The only thing that changes the narrative is winning trophies.” While the domestic giant also spoke highly of his team’s rise as a threatening Test unit, Harmer praised head coach Shukri Conrad for calling a spade a spade. “That team is more than the sum of its parts with only a couple of superstars,” he said. On Conrad, Harmer said, “If he thinks you’re shit, he’ll tell you straight. I rate that. I’ve not always had that.” South Africa’s 2026 schedule The reigning WTC champions will begin their 2026 campaign against the mighty Aussies in a three-match Test series at home, for the first time since 2018, the year of the infamous 'Sandpaper-gate' scandal. After hosting Australia across three Tests, South Africa will also host Bangladesh and England during the packed home season. As things stand, South Africa is third on the 2025-27 WTC rankings, with a point percentage of 75. Australia and New Zealand are ahead of the Proteas. However, on ICC’s Test rankings, the Proteas are second on the table (after Australia), and 15 points ahead of the third-placed India.

Despite their historic WTC victory and a landmark whitewash in India, South African spinner Simon Harmer warns that the BCCI’s "commercial power" still dictates world cricket.

Despite WTC crown, SA spinner Harmer says BCCI’s ‘commercial power’ rules world cricket

The Indian Cricket Board (BCCI) has plans to flush out the girlfriend culture in the IPL, per the latest report. The BCCI is concerned about its long-term consequences and believes it is better to lay strict measures around it before a major controversy erupts or internal matters are leaked. Amid several such instances gripping this season’s IPL and growing fears of more with rumours surrounding the trend already flooding the internet, the BCCI wants to draw boundary lines that would come into effect from the next season onwards.&nbsp;A Dainik Jagran report states that the board is already unhappy with uncalled-for controversies surrounding the Rajasthan Royals’ camp, including their team manager breaching security and the captain's smoking protocols.&nbsp;Also read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/defending-t20i-champions-india-retain-top-spot-ahead-of-england-tour-rating-points-team-rankings-england-australia-pakistan-new-zealand-1777986592526">Defending T20I champions India retain top spot ahead of England tour</a> &nbsp;The report also claims that the BCCI has taken note of several A-listers, including Arshdeep Singh, Hardik Pandya, Ishan Kishan and Yashasvi Jaiswal, who were often with their partners. While the BCCI clearly has no issues with their dating lives, they are upset over some of them staying with their girlfriends (in their hotel rooms) and travelling with the team.&nbsp; &nbsp;In some cases, some partners are also travelling separately to different cities to be with the players. With a few of them being social media influencers, the risks of sensitive information being shared (in public) also loom. &nbsp;“A BCCI official has stated that discussions are underway. There are no issues with wives and family members travelling with players, but the matter is considered more serious in the case of girlfriends. Earlier, girlfriends were not allowed to stay with players during the IPL, but it has now become a trend,” the report stated, as also quoted by the Hindustan Times. &nbsp;“When a BCCI official raised the issue with a member of the Anti-Corruption Unit, the representative said they are not permitted to object to wives and “official girlfriends”. When the board questioned the term “official girlfriend”, the member said that is what they had been instructed.” &nbsp;Even though the BCCI had already restricted partners' travel or stay timelines while being on national duty, it remains unclear if the same rules apply during a season of the cash-rich league. &nbsp;“Among them (girlfriends) are several influencers who have previously promoted betting (gambling) websites. Recently, some IPL players have also faced Police cases filed by their female companions,” the report mentioned.

BCCI to tighten "WAGs" policy for upcoming IPL seasons? Reports suggest the Indian Cricket Board is planning strict measures to regulate the travel and stay of players' partners to prevent security leaks and off-field controversies.

The Indian Cricket Board (BCCI) has plans to flush out the girlfriend culture in the IPL, per the latest report. The BCCI is concerned about its long-term consequences and believes it is better to lay strict measures around it before a major controversy erupts or internal matters are leaked. Amid several such instances gripping this season’s IPL and growing fears of more with rumours surrounding the trend already flooding the internet, the BCCI wants to draw boundary lines that would come into effect from the next season onwards. A Dainik Jagran report states that the board is already unhappy with uncalled-for controversies surrounding the Rajasthan Royals’ camp, including their team manager breaching security and the captain's smoking protocols. Also read | Defending T20I champions India retain top spot ahead of England tour The report also claims that the BCCI has taken note of several A-listers, including Arshdeep Singh, Hardik Pandya, Ishan Kishan and Yashasvi Jaiswal, who were often with their partners. While the BCCI clearly has no issues with their dating lives, they are upset over some of them staying with their girlfriends (in their hotel rooms) and travelling with the team. In some cases, some partners are also travelling separately to different cities to be with the players. With a few of them being social media influencers, the risks of sensitive information being shared (in public) also loom. “A BCCI official has stated that discussions are underway. There are no issues with wives and family members travelling with players, but the matter is considered more serious in the case of girlfriends. Earlier, girlfriends were not allowed to stay with players during the IPL, but it has now become a trend,” the report stated, as also quoted by the Hindustan Times. “When a BCCI official raised the issue with a member of the Anti-Corruption Unit, the representative said they are not permitted to object to wives and “official girlfriends”. When the board questioned the term “official girlfriend”, the member said that is what they had been instructed.” Even though the BCCI had already restricted partners' travel or stay timelines while being on national duty, it remains unclear if the same rules apply during a season of the cash-rich league. “Among them (girlfriends) are several influencers who have previously promoted betting (gambling) websites. Recently, some IPL players have also faced Police cases filed by their female companions,” the report mentioned.

BCCI to tighten "WAGs" policy for upcoming IPL seasons? Reports suggest the Indian Cricket Board is planning strict measures to regulate the travel and stay of players' partners to prevent security leaks and off-field controversies.

BCCI plans to flush out ‘girlfriend culture’ in IPL amid internal leaks risk – Report

World No. 1s Aryna Sabalenka and Jannik Sinner have urged fellow players to boycott Grand Slams over the prize money row. Sabalenka and Sinner were among the leading players who issued a statement on Monday (May 4) expressing ‘deep disappointment’ over French Open prize money. The players are also said to be seeking better representation, health and pension options from tennis’ four Slams – Australian, French, Wimbledon and the US Open.&nbsp;"Without us, there wouldn't be a tournament, and there wouldn't be that entertainment. I feel like we deserve to be paid more," said Sabalenka ahead of this week's Italian Open, as quoted by Sky Sports. "I think at some point we will boycott it. I feel like that's going to be the only way to fight for our rights."&nbsp;Also read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/premier-league-how-soon-can-arsenal-win-title-and-does-man-city-still-have-a-chance-1777970421248">Premier League | How soon can Arsenal win title and does Man City still have a chance?</a> &nbsp;Last month, the French Open organisers announced that they were increasing the overall prize money by roughly 10%, bringing the total pot to £53.5m, with a £4.6m increase. However, the players said that ‘the underlying figures tell a very different story’, claiming to be receiving a smaller share of tournament revenues. &nbsp;"The players' share of Roland Garros tournament revenue has declined from 15.5 per cent in 2024 to 14.9 per cent projected in 2026,” the statement added. &nbsp;On the other hand, the four-time French Open champion Iga Swiatek said, “The most important thing is to have proper communication and discussions with the governing bodies, so we have some space to talk and maybe negotiate. Hopefully, before Roland Garros, there's going to be an opportunity to have these types of meetings, and we'll see how they go. &nbsp;"But boycotting the tournament, it's a bit extreme kind of situation." &nbsp;The French Open will start on May 18 at the Stade Roland Garros in Paris, finishing on June 7. Unlike the other Grand Slam tournaments, which have shifted to electronic line calling, the French Open will retain the use of human line judges.&nbsp;

World No. 1s Sabalenka and Sinner threaten a Grand Slam boycott over a French Open prize money dispute. As Roland Garros looms, see why players are demanding a fairer revenue share.

World No. 1s Aryna Sabalenka and Jannik Sinner have urged fellow players to boycott Grand Slams over the prize money row. Sabalenka and Sinner were among the leading players who issued a statement on Monday (May 4) expressing ‘deep disappointment’ over French Open prize money. The players are also said to be seeking better representation, health and pension options from tennis’ four Slams – Australian, French, Wimbledon and the US Open. "Without us, there wouldn't be a tournament, and there wouldn't be that entertainment. I feel like we deserve to be paid more," said Sabalenka ahead of this week's Italian Open, as quoted by Sky Sports. "I think at some point we will boycott it. I feel like that's going to be the only way to fight for our rights." Also read | Premier League | How soon can Arsenal win title and does Man City still have a chance? Last month, the French Open organisers announced that they were increasing the overall prize money by roughly 10%, bringing the total pot to £53.5m, with a £4.6m increase. However, the players said that ‘the underlying figures tell a very different story’, claiming to be receiving a smaller share of tournament revenues. "The players' share of Roland Garros tournament revenue has declined from 15.5 per cent in 2024 to 14.9 per cent projected in 2026,” the statement added. On the other hand, the four-time French Open champion Iga Swiatek said, “The most important thing is to have proper communication and discussions with the governing bodies, so we have some space to talk and maybe negotiate. Hopefully, before Roland Garros, there's going to be an opportunity to have these types of meetings, and we'll see how they go. "But boycotting the tournament, it's a bit extreme kind of situation." The French Open will start on May 18 at the Stade Roland Garros in Paris, finishing on June 7. Unlike the other Grand Slam tournaments, which have shifted to electronic line calling, the French Open will retain the use of human line judges.

World No. 1s Sabalenka and Sinner threaten a Grand Slam boycott over a French Open prize money dispute. As Roland Garros looms, see why players are demanding a fairer revenue share.

Sabalenka, Sinner ready to boycott Grand Slams over prize money

Football’s governing body, FIFA, has invited the Iranian football federation (FFIRI) to its Zurich headquarters by May 20 for talks over the country’s participation at this year’s World Cup, per the latest report. Following the eruption of war in the Middle East after strikes from the US and Israel, Iran’s participation in the 48-team tournament, to be held across three countries (the US, Canada and Mexico) has been shrouded in uncertainty.&nbsp;FIFA president Gianni Infantino confirmed last week that despite threats and growing uncertainty, the Asian powerhouse in football will participate in the tournament. Iran is scheduled to play its three league matches in the United States.&nbsp;Also read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/premier-league-how-soon-can-arsenal-win-title-and-does-man-city-still-have-a-chance-1777970421248">Premier League | How soon can Arsenal win title and does Man City still have a chance?</a> &nbsp;"Let me start by the outset, confirming straightaway that of course Iran will be participating at the FIFA World Cup 2026," Infantino said as he addressed delegates at the FIFA Congress in Vancouver. "And of course, Iran will play (in) the United States of America." &nbsp;Meanwhile, Iran's delegation was the only absentee from the 211-member congress after a clash with Canadian border officials. Earlier, Iranian media said FFIRI president Mehdi Taj -- a former member of Tehran's Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps (IRGC) -- and two colleagues flew home after being "insulted" by Canadian immigration officers. &nbsp;Canada, which designated the IRGC a terrorist organisation in 2024, said individuals linked to the force were "inadmissible". On his return home, Taj told local media he wanted a meeting with FIFA to discuss a variety of subjects. &nbsp;Iran, who are due to be based in Tucson, Arizona, during the World Cup, face New Zealand, Belgium and Egypt in Group G. &nbsp;The Iranians open their World Cup campaign against New Zealand in Los Angeles on June 15.&nbsp;(With inputs from AFP)

FIFA invites Iran to Zurich for emergency World Cup talks after a diplomatic row in Canada. See the latest on Group G fixtures and Iran’s Arizona training base.

Football’s governing body, FIFA, has invited the Iranian football federation (FFIRI) to its Zurich headquarters by May 20 for talks over the country’s participation at this year’s World Cup, per the latest report. Following the eruption of war in the Middle East after strikes from the US and Israel, Iran’s participation in the 48-team tournament, to be held across three countries (the US, Canada and Mexico) has been shrouded in uncertainty. FIFA president Gianni Infantino confirmed last week that despite threats and growing uncertainty, the Asian powerhouse in football will participate in the tournament. Iran is scheduled to play its three league matches in the United States. Also read | Premier League | How soon can Arsenal win title and does Man City still have a chance? "Let me start by the outset, confirming straightaway that of course Iran will be participating at the FIFA World Cup 2026," Infantino said as he addressed delegates at the FIFA Congress in Vancouver. "And of course, Iran will play (in) the United States of America." Meanwhile, Iran's delegation was the only absentee from the 211-member congress after a clash with Canadian border officials. Earlier, Iranian media said FFIRI president Mehdi Taj -- a former member of Tehran's Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps (IRGC) -- and two colleagues flew home after being "insulted" by Canadian immigration officers. Canada, which designated the IRGC a terrorist organisation in 2024, said individuals linked to the force were "inadmissible". On his return home, Taj told local media he wanted a meeting with FIFA to discuss a variety of subjects. Iran, who are due to be based in Tucson, Arizona, during the World Cup, face New Zealand, Belgium and Egypt in Group G. The Iranians open their World Cup campaign against New Zealand in Los Angeles on June 15. (With inputs from AFP)

FIFA invites Iran to Zurich for emergency World Cup talks after a diplomatic row in Canada. See the latest on Group G fixtures and Iran’s Arizona training base.

FIFA invites Iran to headquarters by May 20 ‘to prepare for World Cup’

T20 world champions India retained the number one spot on the latest team rankings in the shortest format. With the England T20Is looming after IPL 2026, the Men in Blue will travel as the top-ranked team. After becoming the first team to defend the T20 crown successfully—doing so on home soil—Suryakumar Yadav’s side maintained pole position on the rankings updated on Tuesday (May 5).&nbsp;Team India has 275 points, while England is second (262), followed by Australia at three (258).&nbsp; &nbsp;The Indian T20I side peaked during their dominant run between 2024 and 2026, winning all T20I series in between and two scheduled World Cups, one in the Americas (2024) and the next one at home (2026). While India beat the Proteas in the finale in Barbados, which also happened to be veterans Rohit Sharma, Virat Kohli, and Ravindra Jadeja’s final T20I game, SKY’s team crushed the Kiwis in a lop-sided final earlier in March.&nbsp;Also read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/cricket/ipl-2026-why-bumrah-is-struggling-ex-india-assistant-coach-bangar-explains-bowler-s-poor-form-1777959628327">IPL 2026 | 'Not being used correctly': Ex-India assistant coach Bangar on Bumrah's struggle</a> &nbsp;However, the top seven rankings remained unchanged from the previous update, with New Zealand (4th with 247 points), South Africa (5th with 244 points), Pakistan (6th with 240 points) and the West Indies (7th with 233 points). Sri Lanka, the former champions and co-host of the recently concluded edition, slipped to an embarrassing ninth spot. On the other hand, Bangladesh, despite missing the 2026 edition over a venue row, sits in eighth place. &nbsp;Afghanistan sit in 10th place with 220 points, with Zimbabwe and Ireland retaining their respective 11th and 12th spots. Meanwhile, cricket’s growing presence across North America has helped Team USA gain two spots and six points (13th), surpassing the ICC regulars, the Netherlands (14th) and Scotland (15th). &nbsp;Italy, which made its ICC debut during the previous edition, jumped three places (from 26th to 23rd), gaining 11 points. The European side, known for its dominance in football otherwise, secured its maiden World Cup win against Nepal (by 10 wickets) during the group stages.<h3>Team India’s T20I schedule against England –</h3><ul><li>1st T20I: July 1, 2026 – Riverside Ground, Chester-Le-Street</li><li>2nd T20I: July 4, 2026 – Emirates Old Trafford, Manchester</li><li>3rd T20I: July 7, 2026 – Trent Bridge, Nottingham</li><li>4th T20I: July 9, 2026 – Seat Unique Stadium, Bristol</li><li>5th T20I: July 11, 2026 – The Rose Bowl, Southampton</li></ul>

Defending champions India retain the No. 1 T20I ranking ahead of their 2026 England tour. See the latest ICC rankings, World Cup results, and the full July schedule.

T20 world champions India retained the number one spot on the latest team rankings in the shortest format. With the England T20Is looming after IPL 2026, the Men in Blue will travel as the top-ranked team. After becoming the first team to defend the T20 crown successfully—doing so on home soil—Suryakumar Yadav’s side maintained pole position on the rankings updated on Tuesday (May 5). Team India has 275 points, while England is second (262), followed by Australia at three (258). The Indian T20I side peaked during their dominant run between 2024 and 2026, winning all T20I series in between and two scheduled World Cups, one in the Americas (2024) and the next one at home (2026). While India beat the Proteas in the finale in Barbados, which also happened to be veterans Rohit Sharma, Virat Kohli, and Ravindra Jadeja’s final T20I game, SKY’s team crushed the Kiwis in a lop-sided final earlier in March. Also read | IPL 2026 | 'Not being used correctly': Ex-India assistant coach Bangar on Bumrah's struggle However, the top seven rankings remained unchanged from the previous update, with New Zealand (4th with 247 points), South Africa (5th with 244 points), Pakistan (6th with 240 points) and the West Indies (7th with 233 points). Sri Lanka, the former champions and co-host of the recently concluded edition, slipped to an embarrassing ninth spot. On the other hand, Bangladesh, despite missing the 2026 edition over a venue row, sits in eighth place. Afghanistan sit in 10th place with 220 points, with Zimbabwe and Ireland retaining their respective 11th and 12th spots. Meanwhile, cricket’s growing presence across North America has helped Team USA gain two spots and six points (13th), surpassing the ICC regulars, the Netherlands (14th) and Scotland (15th). Italy, which made its ICC debut during the previous edition, jumped three places (from 26th to 23rd), gaining 11 points. The European side, known for its dominance in football otherwise, secured its maiden World Cup win against Nepal (by 10 wickets) during the group stages. Team India’s T20I schedule against England – 1st T20I: July 1, 2026 – Riverside Ground, Chester-Le-Street 2nd T20I: July 4, 2026 – Emirates Old Trafford, Manchester 3rd T20I: July 7, 2026 – Trent Bridge, Nottingham 4th T20I: July 9, 2026 – Seat Unique Stadium, Bristol 5th T20I: July 11, 2026 – The Rose Bowl, Southampton

Defending champions India retain the No. 1 T20I ranking ahead of their 2026 England tour. See the latest ICC rankings, World Cup results, and the full July schedule.

Defending T20I champions India retain top spot ahead of England tour

India star batter KL Rahul has been in outstanding touch as an opener for Delhi Capitals in the ongoing Indian Premier League 2026 and his consistency could prove crucial in their push for a top-four finish. Delhi currently sit seventh on the points table, having secured four wins from nine matches. They will next face Chennai Super Kings at Arun Jaitley Stadium on Tuesday (May 5). During an appearance on JioStar’s ‘Superstars’, Rahul spoke about opening alongside Pathum Nissanka and the clarity he has received regarding his role in the side.&nbsp;Discussing his adjustment to a more attacking approach at the top, Rahul explained that T20 cricket, especially in the IPL, has evolved significantly in recent years. He pointed out that teams dominating the Powerplay are now more likely to win, whereas earlier, matches were often decided in the final overs.&nbsp;He further added, “This season, the messaging from the team management was very clear. They spoke to me before the IPL and wanted me to bat at the top of the order and play with freedom. Teams are aiming for upwards of 60 in that phase. Having that clarity gave me time to think about how to achieve it within my skill set. I've tried to go out each game with that intent. You won't always succeed, but the idea is right. My focus is on maximising the Powerplay, because that's the demand of the team and of T20 cricket right now.”&nbsp;Also Read - <a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/ipl-2026-we-were-10-15-runs-short-rishabh-pant-after-lsg-s-six-wicket-loss-to-mi-1777963164960">'We were 10-15 runs short': Rishabh Pant after LSG’s six-wicket loss to MI</a>&nbsp;Rahul is second in the race for the Orange Cap this year with 433 runs made in nine innings, only trailing Abhishek Sharma (440). He has made runs at an average of 54.12 and a strike rate of 185.84. He has hit three fifties and a century so far this season. Speaking about opening the batting alongside Pathum Nissanka in DC, Rahul said, "It's been fun. There isn't a lot of talk in the middle. We've had one or two good partnerships, getting off to a flying start. That's what the team wants, around 60 in the Powerplay. Even a 25-30 run contribution in the first few overs sets the tone for the innings. The conversations between Pathum and me are mostly about playing good cricketing shots while maintaining an aggressive mindset. I've had many opening partners over the years, so it's always enjoyable playing with different players. You learn a lot about the game and about each other." "Most of the discussions happen off the field. At training, we talk about the shots we can play against different bowlers, what our options are if a spinner starts in the Powerplay, and how to stay clear in our approach. We try to challenge each other in training, and once we're out in the middle, it's about staying relaxed and enjoying the competition," he concluded.&nbsp;With inputs from agencies

KL Rahul has been one of the leading run-scorers this season, maintaining an impressive strike rate.

India star batter KL Rahul has been in outstanding touch as an opener for Delhi Capitals in the ongoing Indian Premier League 2026 and his consistency could prove crucial in their push for a top-four finish. Delhi currently sit seventh on the points table, having secured four wins from nine matches. They will next face Chennai Super Kings at Arun Jaitley Stadium on Tuesday (May 5). During an appearance on JioStar’s ‘Superstars’, Rahul spoke about opening alongside Pathum Nissanka and the clarity he has received regarding his role in the side. Discussing his adjustment to a more attacking approach at the top, Rahul explained that T20 cricket, especially in the IPL, has evolved significantly in recent years. He pointed out that teams dominating the Powerplay are now more likely to win, whereas earlier, matches were often decided in the final overs. He further added, “This season, the messaging from the team management was very clear. They spoke to me before the IPL and wanted me to bat at the top of the order and play with freedom. Teams are aiming for upwards of 60 in that phase. Having that clarity gave me time to think about how to achieve it within my skill set. I've tried to go out each game with that intent. You won't always succeed, but the idea is right. My focus is on maximising the Powerplay, because that's the demand of the team and of T20 cricket right now.” Also Read - 'We were 10-15 runs short': Rishabh Pant after LSG’s six-wicket loss to MI Rahul is second in the race for the Orange Cap this year with 433 runs made in nine innings, only trailing Abhishek Sharma (440). He has made runs at an average of 54.12 and a strike rate of 185.84. He has hit three fifties and a century so far this season. Speaking about opening the batting alongside Pathum Nissanka in DC, Rahul said, "It's been fun. There isn't a lot of talk in the middle. We've had one or two good partnerships, getting off to a flying start. That's what the team wants, around 60 in the Powerplay. Even a 25-30 run contribution in the first few overs sets the tone for the innings. The conversations between Pathum and me are mostly about playing good cricketing shots while maintaining an aggressive mindset. I've had many opening partners over the years, so it's always enjoyable playing with different players. You learn a lot about the game and about each other." "Most of the discussions happen off the field. At training, we talk about the shots we can play against different bowlers, what our options are if a spinner starts in the Powerplay, and how to stay clear in our approach. We try to challenge each other in training, and once we're out in the middle, it's about staying relaxed and enjoying the competition," he concluded. With inputs from agencies

KL Rahul has been one of the leading run-scorers this season, maintaining an impressive strike rate.

IPL 2026 | 'Focused on maximising powerplay': KL Rahul on opening role for DC

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