Iran's football team arrived in Turkey on Monday (May 18) for a training camp and to complete visa applications ahead of the 2026 World Cup, AFP correspondents said. The 22 players and coaching staff in the "Team Melli" delegation flew into the Turkish resort of Antalya, where they could be seen leaving the airport dressed in navy blue tracksuits. The players were to stay several weeks before heading to the global tournament that is being co-hosted by the United States, which began bombing Iran on February 28 alongside Israel, sparking war.&nbsp;The team will be based in Arizona in the US and play all three of their group matches there in spite of the war, which has been temporarily halted by a ceasefire since April 8. But with negotiations in the doldrums, new weekend drone attacks on Gulf countries, and fresh threats from US President Donald Trump, have heightened fears that fighting could resume.&nbsp;Also read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/trending/football-world-cup-2026-fans-slam-americanified-halftime-show-featuring-bts-shakira-and-madonna-1778822321474">Football World Cup 2026: Fans slam 'Americanified' halftime show featuring BTS, Shakira and Madonna</a>&nbsp;The team is hoping to play two friendlies in Antalya, including one against The Gambia on May 29, according to Sam Mehdizadeh, an Iranian-Canadian who heads a company that sets up friendlies for the team and is working to set up a second match.&nbsp;Iran and the US cut diplomatic ties in 1980, and the players will use their time in Turkey to complete visa applications, head coach Amir Ghalenoei said on Saturday.<h2>'Let 'em play'</h2>Iran secured their spot at the World Cup in March 2025, but since then, the United States has twice launched attacks on the country. US officials have insisted Iran is welcome at the tournament, while the FIFA organisers have rejected Iranian suggestions that their games be moved to co-hosts Mexico or Canada.&nbsp;"Let 'em play," Trump said in late April.&nbsp;US Secretary of State Marco Rubio said any problem would not be with Iranian players but "some of the other people (they) would want to bring with them", suggesting some may have ties to the Revolutionary Guards, which Washington has branded a terrorist organisation.&nbsp;Last month, officials from Iran's football federation abandoned a trip to the FIFA congress in Canada, saying they had been "insulted" by Canadian immigration officers.&nbsp;One of their delegation, Mehdi Taj, is a former member of the Revolutionary Guards, which Canada has also designated a terror group.&nbsp;"No visas have been issued yet," Taj, who heads Iran's football federation, told Iranian media on Thursday.&nbsp;On Saturday, FIFA secretary general Mattias Grafstrom held a meeting in Turkey with the federation, describing it as constructive, as did Taj.&nbsp;The squad's US base camp will be in Tucson, Arizona.&nbsp;The team, who are in Group G, kick off their campaign against New Zealand in Los Angeles on June 15, before facing Belgium in the same city and then Egypt in Seattle.

Iran's World Cup squad has landed in Antalya, Turkey, for a crucial training camp and US visa processing. Amid a fragile ceasefire and diplomatic friction, Team Melli races against time to secure entry for their Arizona-based campaign.

Iran's football team arrived in Turkey on Monday (May 18) for a training camp and to complete visa applications ahead of the 2026 World Cup, AFP correspondents said. The 22 players and coaching staff in the "Team Melli" delegation flew into the Turkish resort of Antalya, where they could be seen leaving the airport dressed in navy blue tracksuits. The players were to stay several weeks before heading to the global tournament that is being co-hosted by the United States, which began bombing Iran on February 28 alongside Israel, sparking war. The team will be based in Arizona in the US and play all three of their group matches there in spite of the war, which has been temporarily halted by a ceasefire since April 8. But with negotiations in the doldrums, new weekend drone attacks on Gulf countries, and fresh threats from US President Donald Trump, have heightened fears that fighting could resume. Also read | Football World Cup 2026: Fans slam 'Americanified' halftime show featuring BTS, Shakira and Madonna The team is hoping to play two friendlies in Antalya, including one against The Gambia on May 29, according to Sam Mehdizadeh, an Iranian-Canadian who heads a company that sets up friendlies for the team and is working to set up a second match. Iran and the US cut diplomatic ties in 1980, and the players will use their time in Turkey to complete visa applications, head coach Amir Ghalenoei said on Saturday. 'Let 'em play' Iran secured their spot at the World Cup in March 2025, but since then, the United States has twice launched attacks on the country. US officials have insisted Iran is welcome at the tournament, while the FIFA organisers have rejected Iranian suggestions that their games be moved to co-hosts Mexico or Canada. "Let 'em play," Trump said in late April. US Secretary of State Marco Rubio said any problem would not be with Iranian players but "some of the other people (they) would want to bring with them", suggesting some may have ties to the Revolutionary Guards, which Washington has branded a terrorist organisation. Last month, officials from Iran's football federation abandoned a trip to the FIFA congress in Canada, saying they had been "insulted" by Canadian immigration officers. One of their delegation, Mehdi Taj, is a former member of the Revolutionary Guards, which Canada has also designated a terror group. "No visas have been issued yet," Taj, who heads Iran's football federation, told Iranian media on Thursday. On Saturday, FIFA secretary general Mattias Grafstrom held a meeting in Turkey with the federation, describing it as constructive, as did Taj. The squad's US base camp will be in Tucson, Arizona. The team, who are in Group G, kick off their campaign against New Zealand in Los Angeles on June 15, before facing Belgium in the same city and then Egypt in Seattle.

Iran's World Cup squad has landed in Antalya, Turkey, for a crucial training camp and US visa processing. Amid a fragile ceasefire and diplomatic friction, Team Melli races against time to secure entry for their Arizona-based campaign.

Iran’s FIFA World Cup squad lands in Turkey for training, crucial US visa process

No MS Dhoni in the playing XI for CSK as Chennai captain Ruturaj Gaikwad won the toss and elected to bat first against the touring SunRisers Hyderabad (SRH) at Chepauk on Monday (May 18). Deafening cheers welcomed the two captains at the toss, with a packed stadium holding onto the desperate hope of Dhoni’s much-anticipated selection for the first time this season. However, the veteran remains sidelined as he recovers from a stubborn calf strain. In this do-or-die game for CSK, Gaikwad made one change to the playing XI, bringing in overseas Akeal Hosein ahead of seamer Gurjapneet Singh.&nbsp;WATCH -

<blockquote class="twitter-tweet">🚨 Toss update from Chennai 🚨<a href="https://twitter.com/ChennaiIPL?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@ChennaiIPL</a> won the toss and elected to bat first against <a href="https://twitter.com/SunRisers?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@Sunrisers</a> Updates ▶️ <a href="https://t.co/4SxAzYKEvY">https://t.co/4SxAzYKEvY</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/CSKvSRH?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#CSKvSRH</a> <a href="https://t.co/u4gjxRo6HK">pic.twitter.com/u4gjxRo6HK</a>&mdash; IndianPremierLeague (@IPL) <a href="https://twitter.com/IPL/status/2056368054771298347?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">May 18, 2026</a></blockquote> <script async src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script>

<h3>Check out the playing XI of both teams –</h3>Chennai Super Kings: Sanju Samson (wk), Ruturaj Gaikwad (captain), Urvil Patel, Kartik Sharma, Dewald Brevis, Shivam Dube, Prashant Veer, Akeal Hosein, Anshul Kamboj, Spencer Johnson and Noor Ahmad&nbsp;SunRisers Hyderabad: Abhishek Sharma, Ishan Kishan (wk), Heinrich Klaasen, Salil Arora, R Smaran, Nitish Kumar Reddy, Pat Cummins (captain), Shivang Kumar, Eshan Malinga, Sakib Hussain and Praful Hinge&nbsp;Also read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/watch-video-sharp-shooter-ms-dhoni-impresses-nsg-commandos-with-shooting-drills-in-chennai-hub-csk-vs-srh-ipl-2026-chepauk-1779104968399">WATCH | Sharp-shooter MS Dhoni impresses NSG commandos with shooting drills in Chennai hub</a>&nbsp;Dhoni was part of CSK’s travelling entourage to the stadium for the marquee IPL 2026 game, but remained unavailable for selection. Although Gaikwad broke a million hearts worldwide with an update on Dhoni’s selection for CSK’s last home game this season, he dropped a massive hint on his team’s former captain’s potential return to the playing XI.&nbsp;Check what Gaikwad said about Dhoni’s return and about winning the toss, “Looks a dry wicket, no dew around as well, so we want to put up a score. Last game also, it wasn't the best of wickets to bat on. Anything around 200 should be a good score. We want to start well, assess well and put our best foot forward. We have to respect conditions. Batting first looks good. [Is MS Dhoni playing?] He is not fit enough to play, but you never know if we win this and he comes for the last one. Akeal comes in for Gurjapneet.”&nbsp;On the other hand, Pat Cummins, the SRH captain, felt good to be back after a longer gap, saying, “A good rest for us, so hopefully, we can win. Mood has been great. It is going to be exciting. We were looking to have a bowl. Same team as the last game.”&nbsp;

CSK vs SRH Toss & Lineups: Ruturaj Gaikwad wins the toss and opts to bat first at Chepauk. Skipper drops a major injury update on MS Dhoni, confirming "he is not fit enough to play" tonight. See the official Playing XIs here.

No MS Dhoni in the playing XI for CSK as Chennai captain Ruturaj Gaikwad won the toss and elected to bat first against the touring SunRisers Hyderabad (SRH) at Chepauk on Monday (May 18). Deafening cheers welcomed the two captains at the toss, with a packed stadium holding onto the desperate hope of Dhoni’s much-anticipated selection for the first time this season. However, the veteran remains sidelined as he recovers from a stubborn calf strain. In this do-or-die game for CSK, Gaikwad made one change to the playing XI, bringing in overseas Akeal Hosein ahead of seamer Gurjapneet Singh. WATCH -

CSK vs SRH Toss &amp; Lineups: Ruturaj Gaikwad wins the toss and opts to bat first at Chepauk. Skipper drops a major injury update on MS Dhoni, confirming "he is not fit enough to play" tonight. See the official Playing XIs here.

‘Dhoni is not fit enough to play,’ Gaikwad at toss; CSK bat first against SRH

Rajasthan Royals will host Lucknow Super Giants in match 64 of the Indian Premier League 2026 at the Sawai Mansingh Stadium in Jaipur on Tuesday (May 19). RR have played 12 matches so far, winning six and losing six and are currently sixth on the points table with 12 points. LSG have also played 12 matches, winning four and losing eight and are placed 10th in the standings. Lucknow will look to maintain their winning momentum, while Rajasthan aim to bounce back with a victory. The match is also crucial for RR’s IPL playoff hopes, as they need a convincing win to stay in contention. Ahead of the clash, here’s everything you need to know, including live streaming details, head-to-head stats and other key information.&nbsp;<h2>What is the head-to-head record for the RR vs LSG clash in IPL history</h2>Rajasthan Royals and Lucknow Super Giants have clashed seven times in the Indian Premier League, with RR winning five matches and LSG claiming victory in two encounters.&nbsp;Also Read - <a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/sri-lanka-to-host-india-for-2-wtc-tests-between-august-15-and-27-dates-unconfirmed-bcci-secretary-devajit-saikia-ind-vs-sl-ban-1779108394512">Sri Lanka to host India for 2 WTC Tests between August 15 and 27; dates unconfirmed</a><h2>What is the venue for the RR vs LSG IPL 2026 Match No.64?</h2>The Sawai Mansingh Stadium in Jaipur will be the venue for the RR vs LSG IPL 2026 Match No.64.<h2>When will the RR vs LSG IPL 2026 Match No.64?</h2>The RR vs LSG IPL 2026 Match No.64 will start at 7:30 p.m. IST, with the toss taking place at 7:00 p.m. IST.&nbsp;Also Read - <a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/ticket-prices-for-csk-last-home-game-surges-but-ms-dhoni-unlikely-to-play-csk-vs-srh-chepauk-1779101057845">Ticket sales for CSK’s last home game surges but MS Dhoni unlikely to play</a><h2>Which channel will broadcast the RR vs LSG IPL 2026 Match No.64?</h2>The Star Sports Network will broadcast the RR vs LSG IPL 2026 Match No.64 in India.<h2>Which platform will live-stream the RR vs LSG IPL 2026 Match No.64?</h2>The Jio+Hotstar will live-stream the RR vs LSG IPL 2026 Match No.64 in India.<h2>Squads</h2>Rajasthan Royals: Shimron Hetmyer, Yashasvi Jaiswal, Dhruv Jurel, Lhuan-dre Pretorius, Riyan Parag (captain), Vaibhav Sooryavanshi, Donovan Ferreira, Ravindra Jadeja, Jofra Archer, Nandre Burger, Tushar Deshpande, Kwena Maphaka, Sandeep Sharma, Yudhvir Singh Charak, Ravi Bishnoi, Sushant Mishra, Ravi Singh, Aman Rao Perala, Adam Milne, Dasun Shanaka, Shubham Dubey, Vignesh Puthur, Kuldeep Sen and Brijesh Sharma&nbsp;Lucknow Super Giants: Rishabh Pant (C), Aiden Markram, Himmat Singh, Matthew Breetzke, Mukul Choudhary, Akshat Raghuwanshi, Josh Inglis, Mitchell Marsh, Abdul Samad, Shahbaz Ahamad, Arshin Kulkarni, Wanindu Hasaranga, Ayush Badoni, Mohammad Shami, Avesh Khan, M. Siddharth, Digvesh Singh, Akash Singh, Prince Yadav, Arjun Tendulkar, Anrich Nortje, Naman Tiwari, Mayank Yadav and Mohsin Khan

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

Rajasthan Royals will host Lucknow Super Giants in match 64 of the Indian Premier League 2026 at the Sawai Mansingh Stadium in Jaipur on Tuesday (May 19). RR have played 12 matches so far, winning six and losing six and are currently sixth on the points table with 12 points. LSG have also played 12 matches, winning four and losing eight and are placed 10th in the standings. Lucknow will look to maintain their winning momentum, while Rajasthan aim to bounce back with a victory. The match is also crucial for RR’s IPL playoff hopes, as they need a convincing win to stay in contention. Ahead of the clash, here’s everything you need to know, including live streaming details, head-to-head stats and other key information. What is the head-to-head record for the RR vs LSG clash in IPL history Rajasthan Royals and Lucknow Super Giants have clashed seven times in the Indian Premier League, with RR winning five matches and LSG claiming victory in two encounters. Also Read - Sri Lanka to host India for 2 WTC Tests between August 15 and 27; dates unconfirmed What is the venue for the RR vs LSG IPL 2026 Match No.64? The Sawai Mansingh Stadium in Jaipur will be the venue for the RR vs LSG IPL 2026 Match No.64. When will the RR vs LSG IPL 2026 Match No.64? The RR vs LSG IPL 2026 Match No.64 will start at 7:30 p.m. IST, with the toss taking place at 7:00 p.m. IST. Also Read - Ticket sales for CSK’s last home game surges but MS Dhoni unlikely to play Which channel will broadcast the RR vs LSG IPL 2026 Match No.64? The Star Sports Network will broadcast the RR vs LSG IPL 2026 Match No.64 in India. Which platform will live-stream the RR vs LSG IPL 2026 Match No.64? The Jio+Hotstar will live-stream the RR vs LSG IPL 2026 Match No.64 in India. Squads Rajasthan Royals: Shimron Hetmyer, Yashasvi Jaiswal, Dhruv Jurel, Lhuan-dre Pretorius, Riyan Parag (captain), Vaibhav Sooryavanshi, Donovan Ferreira, Ravindra Jadeja, Jofra Archer, Nandre Burger, Tushar Deshpande, Kwena Maphaka, Sandeep Sharma, Yudhvir Singh Charak, Ravi Bishnoi, Sushant Mishra, Ravi Singh, Aman Rao Perala, Adam Milne, Dasun Shanaka, Shubham Dubey, Vignesh Puthur, Kuldeep Sen and Brijesh Sharma Lucknow Super Giants: Rishabh Pant (C), Aiden Markram, Himmat Singh, Matthew Breetzke, Mukul Choudhary, Akshat Raghuwanshi, Josh Inglis, Mitchell Marsh, Abdul Samad, Shahbaz Ahamad, Arshin Kulkarni, Wanindu Hasaranga, Ayush Badoni, Mohammad Shami, Avesh Khan, M. Siddharth, Digvesh Singh, Akash Singh, Prince Yadav, Arjun Tendulkar, Anrich Nortje, Naman Tiwari, Mayank Yadav and Mohsin Khan

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

IPL 2026: Here's all you need to know about RR vs LSG match no 64 timing, squad, H2H & more

In the latest development surrounding India’s two-match away Test series against Sri Lanka, the two cricket boards - SLC and the BCCI have agreed on an almost two-week window between August 15 and 27 to host the World Test Championship matches. While the dates and venues are unconfirmed, with all stakeholders working towards finalising them, the two Asian giants will face off in a two-match Test series shortly after the Lanka Premier League, which concludes on Sunday (Aug 9). However, talks around adding three T20Is to the tour are also up in the air.&nbsp;Per a Cricbuzz report, the BCCI secretary Devajit Saikia has also travelled to the Island Nation as part of an ICC delegation to assess the situation within the SLC following its dissolution by the government of President Anura Kumara Dissanayake. The government, however, has since appointed an interim body named the Sri Lanka Cricket Transformation Committee. That body might discuss the proposed T20I series topic with the BCCI secretary.&nbsp;&nbsp;Also read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/watch-video-sharp-shooter-ms-dhoni-impresses-nsg-commandos-with-shooting-drills-in-chennai-hub-csk-vs-srh-ipl-2026-chepauk-1779104968399">WATCH | Sharp-shooter MS Dhoni impresses NSG commandos with shooting drills in Chennai hub</a> &nbsp;While there is a push to shift those shorter-format games to September, alignment may prove incredibly difficult given India’s extraordinarily packed calendar. The T20Is were originally envisioned as a fundraiser initiative for the victims of last November's devastating Cyclone Ditwah.<h3>September window crunch</h3>As of now, India will travel to Bangladesh for a six-match white-ball series in September, comprising three ODIs and as many T20Is. Although the dates are unannounced, Saikia refused to comment on any advancements involving that tour amid the recent patch between the two cricket boards following the T20 World Cup venue row. &nbsp;The away tour of Bangladesh, however, is a carry forward of last year’s postponed series, deferred at the time due to tense relations between the two countries.&nbsp; &nbsp;Meanwhile, the away Bangladesh tour, if at all it takes place, will be followed by a home series against the West Indies (Sep 9 to Oct 4), which again would overlap with the 2026 Nagoya Asian Games cricket calendar (Sep 25 to Oct 3). Amid all of this, India is also scheduled to fly to the UAE for a three-match T20I series against Afghanistan.&nbsp;

India and Sri Lanka lock in an August 15–27 window for two high-stakes WTC Tests. As BCCI’s Devajit Saikia meets SLC's interim committee, find out why a proposed T20I fundraiser and the upcoming Bangladesh tour are facing a massive scheduling logjam.

In the latest development surrounding India’s two-match away Test series against Sri Lanka, the two cricket boards - SLC and the BCCI have agreed on an almost two-week window between August 15 and 27 to host the World Test Championship matches. While the dates and venues are unconfirmed, with all stakeholders working towards finalising them, the two Asian giants will face off in a two-match Test series shortly after the Lanka Premier League, which concludes on Sunday (Aug 9). However, talks around adding three T20Is to the tour are also up in the air. Per a Cricbuzz report, the BCCI secretary Devajit Saikia has also travelled to the Island Nation as part of an ICC delegation to assess the situation within the SLC following its dissolution by the government of President Anura Kumara Dissanayake. The government, however, has since appointed an interim body named the Sri Lanka Cricket Transformation Committee. That body might discuss the proposed T20I series topic with the BCCI secretary. Also read | WATCH | Sharp-shooter MS Dhoni impresses NSG commandos with shooting drills in Chennai hub While there is a push to shift those shorter-format games to September, alignment may prove incredibly difficult given India’s extraordinarily packed calendar. The T20Is were originally envisioned as a fundraiser initiative for the victims of last November's devastating Cyclone Ditwah. September window crunch As of now, India will travel to Bangladesh for a six-match white-ball series in September, comprising three ODIs and as many T20Is. Although the dates are unannounced, Saikia refused to comment on any advancements involving that tour amid the recent patch between the two cricket boards following the T20 World Cup venue row. The away tour of Bangladesh, however, is a carry forward of last year’s postponed series, deferred at the time due to tense relations between the two countries. Meanwhile, the away Bangladesh tour, if at all it takes place, will be followed by a home series against the West Indies (Sep 9 to Oct 4), which again would overlap with the 2026 Nagoya Asian Games cricket calendar (Sep 25 to Oct 3). Amid all of this, India is also scheduled to fly to the UAE for a three-match T20I series against Afghanistan.

India and Sri Lanka lock in an August 15–27 window for two high-stakes WTC Tests. As BCCI’s Devajit Saikia meets SLC's interim committee, find out why a proposed T20I fundraiser and the upcoming Bangladesh tour are facing a massive scheduling logjam.

Sri Lanka to host India for 2 WTC Tests between August 15 and 27; dates unconfirmed

Litton Das has opened up about the frustration and disappointment he experienced during his brief stint with Kolkata Knight Riders in the 2023 edition of the Indian Premier League, admitting he never truly felt part of the team environment and struggled with the absence of communication from the management. During an appearance on Bangladesh Cricket’s Char Chokka podcast, the wicketkeeper-batter reflected honestly on his time in the IPL, saying he often sensed that the franchise did not genuinely require his services.&nbsp;&nbsp;Litton explained that the support system he expected from the team management and coaching staff was missing, which made it difficult for him to settle into the squad despite arriving with high hopes.&nbsp;“I felt KKR didn’t really need me that much," Litton was quoted as saying. “The team also didn’t support me the way I expected."&nbsp;The right-hander particularly highlighted the confusion surrounding his only appearance of the season. According to Litton, players are generally informed ahead of time when they are likely to feature in the next match so they can mentally and physically prepare.&nbsp;Also Read - <a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/-doubt-he-d-want-to-take-such-a-risk-ex-india-captain-on-dhoni-s-csk-vs-srh-availability-1779098959751">'Doubt he'd want to take such a risk': Ex-India captain on Dhoni’s CSK vs SRH availability</a>&nbsp;However, after remaining on the sidelines for two consecutive games without any discussion from the team management, he suddenly received a message late at night confirming his inclusion in the playing XI.&nbsp;“Usually, a player is informed before a match that they will be playing the next day, or something along those lines. I had been sitting out for two matches, and there was no such discussion with me at all," Litton said.&nbsp;“Suddenly, at 11 PM, I got a message saying, ‘You will play.’ I tried with whatever energy I had. In cricket, sometimes things go your way, and sometimes they don’t. That day just wasn’t mine."&nbsp;The 31-year-old lone IPL outing came against Delhi Capitals, where he opened the innings but scored just four runs off four balls. It proved to be a difficult match overall, as he also missed two stumping chances behind the wickets in a defeat for KKR.&nbsp;&nbsp;Also Read - <a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/ticket-prices-for-csk-last-home-game-surges-but-ms-dhoni-unlikely-to-play-csk-vs-srh-chepauk-1779101057845">Ticket sales for CSK’s last home game surges but MS Dhoni unlikely to play – Report</a>&nbsp;Following that game, Litton was left out of the side for the remainder of the tournament and later returned to Bangladesh due to family-related reasons. KKR endured an inconsistent campaign and finished seventh, missing out on the playoffs.&nbsp;&nbsp;The franchise later underwent significant changes, including the return of Gautam Gambhir in a mentorship role, which played a key part in transforming the side into IPL champions the following season. By then, Litton had already been released and subsequently went unsold in the auction.&nbsp;

Litton Das reflects on IPL 2023 at KKR, says he lacked clarity and support before being dropped

Litton Das has opened up about the frustration and disappointment he experienced during his brief stint with Kolkata Knight Riders in the 2023 edition of the Indian Premier League, admitting he never truly felt part of the team environment and struggled with the absence of communication from the management. During an appearance on Bangladesh Cricket’s Char Chokka podcast, the wicketkeeper-batter reflected honestly on his time in the IPL, saying he often sensed that the franchise did not genuinely require his services. Litton explained that the support system he expected from the team management and coaching staff was missing, which made it difficult for him to settle into the squad despite arriving with high hopes. “I felt KKR didn’t really need me that much," Litton was quoted as saying. “The team also didn’t support me the way I expected." The right-hander particularly highlighted the confusion surrounding his only appearance of the season. According to Litton, players are generally informed ahead of time when they are likely to feature in the next match so they can mentally and physically prepare. Also Read - 'Doubt he'd want to take such a risk': Ex-India captain on Dhoni’s CSK vs SRH availability However, after remaining on the sidelines for two consecutive games without any discussion from the team management, he suddenly received a message late at night confirming his inclusion in the playing XI. “Usually, a player is informed before a match that they will be playing the next day, or something along those lines. I had been sitting out for two matches, and there was no such discussion with me at all," Litton said. “Suddenly, at 11 PM, I got a message saying, ‘You will play.’ I tried with whatever energy I had. In cricket, sometimes things go your way, and sometimes they don’t. That day just wasn’t mine." The 31-year-old lone IPL outing came against Delhi Capitals, where he opened the innings but scored just four runs off four balls. It proved to be a difficult match overall, as he also missed two stumping chances behind the wickets in a defeat for KKR. Also Read - Ticket sales for CSK’s last home game surges but MS Dhoni unlikely to play – Report Following that game, Litton was left out of the side for the remainder of the tournament and later returned to Bangladesh due to family-related reasons. KKR endured an inconsistent campaign and finished seventh, missing out on the playoffs. The franchise later underwent significant changes, including the return of Gautam Gambhir in a mentorship role, which played a key part in transforming the side into IPL champions the following season. By then, Litton had already been released and subsequently went unsold in the auction.

Litton Das reflects on IPL 2023 at KKR, says he lacked clarity and support before being dropped.

'KKR did not support me the way I expected': Bangladesh's Litton Das on his IPL stint

Mahendra Singh Dhoni, the former Indian captain and cricket great, holds the honorary rank of a Lieutenant Colonel in the Territorial Army. Also active in the IPL, Dhoni has been away from competitive cricket lately, recovering from a calf strain sustained ahead of this season. And although he continues to keep his massive fanbase waiting for his first game in IPL 2026, with the tournament already in its business end, MS Dhoni recently paid a visit to the NSG (National Security Guard) Regional hub in Chennai. He interacted with the NSG commandos and even took part in a shooting drill, impressing the onlookers.&nbsp;Also read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/ticket-prices-for-csk-last-home-game-surges-but-ms-dhoni-unlikely-to-play-csk-vs-srh-chepauk-1779101057845">Ticket sales for CSK’s last home game surges but MS Dhoni unlikely to play – Report</a>&nbsp;Dressed in all-black attire, Dhoni’s light-hearted interaction with the commandos was captured and made public in a series of viral videos, where he was seen discussing their fitness and training routines. He even pointed towards himself and asked them, ‘Am I looking fit enough?' Dhoni’s unexpected remark drew smiles and giggles from the personnel around him, with Dhoni later taking part in shooting drills under supervision.&nbsp;WATCH VIDEO -

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Meanwhile, MS Dhoni was conferred the honorary rank in the Territorial Army’s Parachute Regiment after winning the 2011 ODI World Cup at home, and has since participated in several training attachments, including duties in Jammu and Kashmir.<h3>Dhoni in IPL 2026</h3>Dhoni’s Chennai Super Kings (CSK) will host the SunRisers Hyderabad (SRH) on Monday evening at Chepauk, which also happens to be CSK’s last home game this season. Considering Dhoni’s wish to play his last game for his IPL franchise at their home venue, which he said sometime during the 2021 edition in the UAE, Dhoni could appear at the venue. It, however, remains unclear if he will feature in the playing XI for the Yellow Army. &nbsp;CSK, meanwhile, sit in sixth place with 12 points from as many contested matches this time. To qualify for IPL 2026 playoffs, they must beat SRH and then the Gujarat Titans in their final league game, while also ensuring a few results fall in their favour.

MS Dhoni swaps his cricket gear for tactical weapons training at the NSG Regional Hub in Chennai. See the viral video of "Thala" stunning elite commandos with flawless shooting drills ahead of the high-stakes CSK vs SRH clash tonight. 

Mahendra Singh Dhoni, the former Indian captain and cricket great, holds the honorary rank of a Lieutenant Colonel in the Territorial Army. Also active in the IPL, Dhoni has been away from competitive cricket lately, recovering from a calf strain sustained ahead of this season. And although he continues to keep his massive fanbase waiting for his first game in IPL 2026, with the tournament already in its business end, MS Dhoni recently paid a visit to the NSG (National Security Guard) Regional hub in Chennai. He interacted with the NSG commandos and even took part in a shooting drill, impressing the onlookers. Also read | Ticket sales for CSK’s last home game surges but MS Dhoni unlikely to play – Report Dressed in all-black attire, Dhoni’s light-hearted interaction with the commandos was captured and made public in a series of viral videos, where he was seen discussing their fitness and training routines. He even pointed towards himself and asked them, ‘Am I looking fit enough?' Dhoni’s unexpected remark drew smiles and giggles from the personnel around him, with Dhoni later taking part in shooting drills under supervision. WATCH VIDEO -

MS Dhoni swaps his cricket gear for tactical weapons training at the NSG Regional Hub in Chennai. See the viral video of "Thala" stunning elite commandos with flawless shooting drills ahead of the high-stakes CSK vs SRH clash tonight.&nbsp;

WATCH | Sharp-shooter MS Dhoni impresses NSG commandos with shooting drills in Chennai hub

The ticket sales for Chennai Super Kings’ last home game this season have reportedly surged amid expectations of watching MS Dhoni in the yellow jersey. However, the latest reports are unlikely to bring any smiles to his fans, as although Dhoni is expected to be around CSK’s dugout against the SunRisers Hyderabad (SRH) on Monday night (May 18), he is unlikely to make himself available for selection. After losing their previous game to LSG, CSK needs to win this game at least to stay afloat in the playoff race. They play the Gujarat Titans next in an away clash.&nbsp;MS Dhoni has been away from competitive cricket since last appearing in IPL 2025. Ahead of this season, Dhoni suffered a calf injury and has remained sidelined since. Although CSK’s official handle stated that Dhoni would take the field after two weeks, suffering a setback during his recovery further delayed his much-anticipated return.&nbsp;Also read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/ipl-2026-will-ms-dhoni-play-in-csk-vs-srh-at-chepauk-here-s-what-we-know-1779091026639">IPL 2026: Will MS Dhoni play in CSK vs SRH at Chepauk? Here’s what we know</a> &nbsp;Contrary to his training videos flooding the internet now and then, Dhoni is said to be reluctant about making his comeback to the cricket field for primarily two reasons: a) he feels he is not 100 per cent about his match fitness, and b) he doesn’t wish to alter the winning XI that has so far kept CSK alive in this tournament.<h3>Would he never play again?</h3>Only MS Dhoni can answer this. Turning 45 in July this year, the chances of Dhoni keeping himself fit and available for selection for the next season look highly unlikely. Considering he decided against appearing for his franchise this season, Dhoni might never return as a CSK player again. &nbsp;But the fans seemed to be hoping against hope to watch their former team captain and franchise legend back keeping wickets and smashing sixes for perhaps the last time, as Chennai hosts Hyderabad on Monday. &nbsp;CSK must beat SRH to give them every chance of playing the playoffs this year; however, should they lose at Chepauk, their chances would drastically reduce, with SRH and GT advancing to the next round.&nbsp;

MS Dhoni is expected in the CSK dugout tonight against SRH, but reports suggest he won't play. As ticket sales surge at Chepauk, is this Thala's final farewell? Read the latest injury and playoff updates

The ticket sales for Chennai Super Kings’ last home game this season have reportedly surged amid expectations of watching MS Dhoni in the yellow jersey. However, the latest reports are unlikely to bring any smiles to his fans, as although Dhoni is expected to be around CSK’s dugout against the SunRisers Hyderabad (SRH) on Monday night (May 18), he is unlikely to make himself available for selection. After losing their previous game to LSG, CSK needs to win this game at least to stay afloat in the playoff race. They play the Gujarat Titans next in an away clash. MS Dhoni has been away from competitive cricket since last appearing in IPL 2025. Ahead of this season, Dhoni suffered a calf injury and has remained sidelined since. Although CSK’s official handle stated that Dhoni would take the field after two weeks, suffering a setback during his recovery further delayed his much-anticipated return. Also read | IPL 2026: Will MS Dhoni play in CSK vs SRH at Chepauk? Here’s what we know Contrary to his training videos flooding the internet now and then, Dhoni is said to be reluctant about making his comeback to the cricket field for primarily two reasons: a) he feels he is not 100 per cent about his match fitness, and b) he doesn’t wish to alter the winning XI that has so far kept CSK alive in this tournament. Would he never play again? Only MS Dhoni can answer this. Turning 45 in July this year, the chances of Dhoni keeping himself fit and available for selection for the next season look highly unlikely. Considering he decided against appearing for his franchise this season, Dhoni might never return as a CSK player again. But the fans seemed to be hoping against hope to watch their former team captain and franchise legend back keeping wickets and smashing sixes for perhaps the last time, as Chennai hosts Hyderabad on Monday. CSK must beat SRH to give them every chance of playing the playoffs this year; however, should they lose at Chepauk, their chances would drastically reduce, with SRH and GT advancing to the next round.

MS Dhoni is expected in the CSK dugout tonight against SRH, but reports suggest he won't play. As ticket sales surge at Chepauk, is this Thala's final farewell? Read the latest injury and playoff updates

Ticket sales for CSK’s last home game surges but MS Dhoni unlikely to play – Report

Ahead of Chennai Super Kings IPL 2026 clash against Sunrisers Hyderabad, former India captain Sunil Gavaskar expressed doubts over the possibility of MS Dhoni returning to the playing XI, calling it a risky move considering the veteran wicketkeeper has missed the entire season with a calf injury.&nbsp;&nbsp;Dhoni, sidelined for two weeks earlier due to a calf strain, has yet to make an appearance this season. The former CSK captain has also stayed away from competitive cricket for more than a year, featuring only in the IPL.&nbsp;&nbsp;With CSK preparing for crucial fixtures against SRH and later Gujarat Titans in their push for a playoff berth, speculation continues over whether the franchise will include him in the squad or stick with the current combination.&nbsp;Speaking on Star Sports’ “Cricket Live,” Gavaskar said that for such an important clash, CSK will need players who have been match fit and played consistently as of late and with Dhoni as a "team man", he would not take the risk of disturbing a combination which has produced some solid success for CSK this season.&nbsp;Also Read - <a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/ipl-2026-will-ms-dhoni-play-in-csk-vs-srh-at-chepauk-here-s-what-we-know-1779091026639">IPL 2026: Will MS Dhoni play in CSK vs SRH at Chepauk? Here’s what we know</a>&nbsp;Gavaskar noted that the SRH fixture carries massive significance for CSK, particularly as it marks their final home game at Chepauk. While supporters would naturally love to see Dhoni in action, he pointed out that the veteran has neither played this season nor participated in competitive cricket for a long time. "The match against SRH is a crucial one for CSK. It's their last home game at Chepauk, so naturally, fans want to see MS Dhoni play. But he has not featured at all this season. In fact, he has not played competitive cricket for over a year. So, I doubt he would want to take such a risk at this stage. You need players who have been match-fit and playing regularly for the last six weeks. Dhoni is a complete team man. I do not think he would want to disrupt the current combination," he said.&nbsp;He further said that he would be surprised if Dhoni is included against SRH given the stakes involved in the playoff race.&nbsp;"I would be very surprised if he plays against SRH. This is a must-win game for CSK. A victory keeps them alive in the playoff race. They have to win this match at all costs, and bringing in a player who has not played in over a year could be a gamble," he signed off.&nbsp;Also Read - <a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/who-won-preakness-stakes-2026-watch-napoleon-solo-with-7-1-odds-registers-come-from-behind-victory-1779090482686">Preakness Stakes 2026 | WATCH - Napoleon Solo wins second jewel of Triple Crown</a>&nbsp;As per ESPNCricinfo, Dhoni trained on Sunday for 30-40 minutes, facing throwdowns and spinners. In 278 IPL matches, Dhoni has made 5,439 runs in 242 innings at an average of 38.30 and a strike rate of 137.45, including 24 fifties and a best score of 84 not out.&nbsp;&nbsp;With inputs from agencies

Former India captain Sunil Gavaskar has expressed doubts over MS Dhoni’s return to the playing XI against SRH, calling it a risky move as the veteran wicketkeeper has missed the entire season due to a calf injury.

Ahead of Chennai Super Kings IPL 2026 clash against Sunrisers Hyderabad, former India captain Sunil Gavaskar expressed doubts over the possibility of MS Dhoni returning to the playing XI, calling it a risky move considering the veteran wicketkeeper has missed the entire season with a calf injury. Dhoni, sidelined for two weeks earlier due to a calf strain, has yet to make an appearance this season. The former CSK captain has also stayed away from competitive cricket for more than a year, featuring only in the IPL. With CSK preparing for crucial fixtures against SRH and later Gujarat Titans in their push for a playoff berth, speculation continues over whether the franchise will include him in the squad or stick with the current combination. Speaking on Star Sports’ “Cricket Live,” Gavaskar said that for such an important clash, CSK will need players who have been match fit and played consistently as of late and with Dhoni as a "team man", he would not take the risk of disturbing a combination which has produced some solid success for CSK this season. Also Read - IPL 2026: Will MS Dhoni play in CSK vs SRH at Chepauk? Here’s what we know Gavaskar noted that the SRH fixture carries massive significance for CSK, particularly as it marks their final home game at Chepauk. While supporters would naturally love to see Dhoni in action, he pointed out that the veteran has neither played this season nor participated in competitive cricket for a long time. "The match against SRH is a crucial one for CSK. It's their last home game at Chepauk, so naturally, fans want to see MS Dhoni play. But he has not featured at all this season. In fact, he has not played competitive cricket for over a year. So, I doubt he would want to take such a risk at this stage. You need players who have been match-fit and playing regularly for the last six weeks. Dhoni is a complete team man. I do not think he would want to disrupt the current combination," he said. He further said that he would be surprised if Dhoni is included against SRH given the stakes involved in the playoff race. "I would be very surprised if he plays against SRH. This is a must-win game for CSK. A victory keeps them alive in the playoff race. They have to win this match at all costs, and bringing in a player who has not played in over a year could be a gamble," he signed off. Also Read - Preakness Stakes 2026 | WATCH - Napoleon Solo wins second jewel of Triple Crown As per ESPNCricinfo, Dhoni trained on Sunday for 30-40 minutes, facing throwdowns and spinners. In 278 IPL matches, Dhoni has made 5,439 runs in 242 innings at an average of 38.30 and a strike rate of 137.45, including 24 fifties and a best score of 84 not out. With inputs from agencies

Former India captain Sunil Gavaskar has expressed doubts over MS Dhoni’s return to the playing XI against SRH, calling it a risky move as the veteran wicketkeeper has missed the entire season due to a calf injury.

'Doubt he'd want to take such a risk': Ex-India captain on Dhoni’s CSK vs SRH availability

Yuzvendra Chahal and content creator RJ Mahvash have been making headlines since last year due to their alleged dating rumours, and the two are once again at the centre of online attention after netizens spotted that they had unfollowed each other on Instagram earlier this year. Now, Mahvash has finally reacted to the speculation and clarified that the incident was nothing more than a temporary disagreement between friends.<h2>Mahvash reacts to rumours around Chahal</h2>While speaking to Pinkvilla, Mahvash dismissed the widespread chatter surrounding their social media activity and said, "People have a habit of making a fuss over small things."&nbsp;Also Read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/photos/new-ott-releases-this-week-may-18-24-2026-system-tom-clancy-s-jack-ryan-desi-bling-6-movies-and-shows-coming-on-netflix-prime-video-and-more-1778990981355">New OTT releases this week (May 18-24, 2026): 6 movies and shows coming on OTT</a>&nbsp;According to her, the unfollowing episode was never serious enough to be interpreted as a fallout. "It is not such a big deal when you go through it. Like two friends had an argument, and they followed and unfollowed each other. And the matter ends there. In fact, when you are comfortable talk absolute nonsense with friends, you should not hold any grudges against them. So I would always wish him all the best and my best wishes will always be with him. There's no such big deal in it," she added.&nbsp;Also Read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/entertainment/karuppu-box-office-day-3-suriya-trisha-action-drama-zooms-past-rs-100-crore-worldwide-1779074123504">Karuppu box office day 3: Suriya-Trisha's film zooms past Rs 100 crore worldwide</a><h2>Did Mahvash date Chahal?</h2>Rumours surrounding Mahvash and Chahal had been circulating for months, especially after the two were spotted together on several occasions amid Chahal’s separation from choreographer and influencer Dhanashree Verma.&nbsp;Also Read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/entertainment/bollywood/-it-s-very-similar-aamir-khan-compares-thugs-of-hindostan-to-sholay-explains-why-he-chose-the-film-1779088668986">Aamir Khan compares Thugs of Hindostan to Sholay, reveals why he chose the film</a>&nbsp;However, Mahvash firmly denied any dating rumours, saying, "No, that was never the case. I have been a great friend to him. At that time (during Chahal's separation phase), he needed a good friend. So we were all just focusing on him to get done with his IPL season. I stood with him as a support system. Henceforth, we'll always meet the way we met earlier. I will fearlessly stand by him."&nbsp;Also Read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/entertainment/vishal-calls-tamil-nadu-cm-vijay-s-decision-disheartening-for-allocating-film-technology-and-cinematograph-portfolio-to-minister-rajmohan-1779088263771">Vishal calls Tamil Nadu CM Vijay's decision 'disheartening' for allocating Film Technology and Cinematograph Portfolio to Minister Rajmohan</a>&nbsp;Earlier, Chahal himself had addressed similar rumours during an appearance on Raj Shamani’s podcast. He clarified that there was no relationship between them and how the trolling affected Mahvash.&nbsp;Mahvash has recently made her acting debut with the project Pyar Paisa Profit, which is based on Durjoy Datta’s novel Now That You’re Rich Let’s Fall In Love.&nbsp;

RJ Mahvash has finally addressed the dating and fallout rumours with Yuzvendra Chahal. The two have been making headlines for months and the content creator also revealed the unfollowing episode was not that serious.

Yuzvendra Chahal and content creator RJ Mahvash have been making headlines since last year due to their alleged dating rumours, and the two are once again at the centre of online attention after netizens spotted that they had unfollowed each other on Instagram earlier this year. Now, Mahvash has finally reacted to the speculation and clarified that the incident was nothing more than a temporary disagreement between friends. Mahvash reacts to rumours around Chahal While speaking to Pinkvilla, Mahvash dismissed the widespread chatter surrounding their social media activity and said, "People have a habit of making a fuss over small things." Also Read: New OTT releases this week (May 18-24, 2026): 6 movies and shows coming on OTT According to her, the unfollowing episode was never serious enough to be interpreted as a fallout. "It is not such a big deal when you go through it. Like two friends had an argument, and they followed and unfollowed each other. And the matter ends there. In fact, when you are comfortable talk absolute nonsense with friends, you should not hold any grudges against them. So I would always wish him all the best and my best wishes will always be with him. There's no such big deal in it," she added. Also Read: Karuppu box office day 3: Suriya-Trisha's film zooms past Rs 100 crore worldwide Did Mahvash date Chahal? Rumours surrounding Mahvash and Chahal had been circulating for months, especially after the two were spotted together on several occasions amid Chahal’s separation from choreographer and influencer Dhanashree Verma. Also Read: Aamir Khan compares Thugs of Hindostan to Sholay, reveals why he chose the film However, Mahvash firmly denied any dating rumours, saying, "No, that was never the case. I have been a great friend to him. At that time (during Chahal's separation phase), he needed a good friend. So we were all just focusing on him to get done with his IPL season. I stood with him as a support system. Henceforth, we'll always meet the way we met earlier. I will fearlessly stand by him." Also Read: Vishal calls Tamil Nadu CM Vijay's decision 'disheartening' for allocating Film Technology and Cinematograph Portfolio to Minister Rajmohan Earlier, Chahal himself had addressed similar rumours during an appearance on Raj Shamani’s podcast. He clarified that there was no relationship between them and how the trolling affected Mahvash. Mahvash has recently made her acting debut with the project Pyar Paisa Profit, which is based on Durjoy Datta’s novel Now That You’re Rich Let’s Fall In Love.

RJ Mahvash has finally addressed the dating and fallout rumours with Yuzvendra Chahal. The two have been making headlines for months and the content creator also revealed that the unfollowing episode was not that serious.

RJ Mahvash breaks silence on dating, fallout rumours with Yuzvendra Chahal: 'No such big deal'

All eyes at MA Chidambaram Stadium will be on MS Dhoni as Chennai Super Kings take on Sunrisers Hyderabad in their final home fixture of the IPL 2026 season. The 44-year-old picked up a calf injury before the campaign began and CSK’s official update stated that he would be sidelined for around two weeks. More than seven weeks have passed since then, yet the veteran wicketkeeper has still not featured in a matchday squad.&nbsp;Although Dhoni resumed training early in the season, he has not travelled with the side for away fixtures and has mainly stayed away from the dugout even during home matches, leaving fans puzzled for clarity.&nbsp;Midway through the season, CSK head coach Stephen Fleming revealed that Dhoni had suffered a setback during recovery, delaying his comeback further.&nbsp;&nbsp;Batting coach Michael Hussey, however, repeatedly maintained that Dhoni looked comfortable while batting. The concern, it appears, has been more about his movement on the field and running between the wickets rather than his ability with the bat.&nbsp;Also Read - <a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/ipl-2026-rcb-through-to-playoffs-seven-teams-still-fighting-for-remaining-three-spots-check-possible-scenarios-1779086919459">IPL 2026: RCB through to playoffs; seven teams still fighting for remaining three spots? Check possible scenarios</a><h2>Will Dhoni play against SRH?</h2>Ahead of the clash with SRH, Dhoni once again trained with the squad and reportedly spent considerable time in the nets, but, training appearances are no guarantee of a return.&nbsp;A major talking point emerged when Ravichandran Ashwin, speaking on his YouTube channel, said that he had “heard” Dhoni was ready to play over the past two to three matches and felt there was a strong possibility of him featuring against Hyderabad.&nbsp;Also Read - <a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/who-won-preakness-stakes-2026-watch-napoleon-solo-with-7-1-odds-registers-come-from-behind-victory-1779090482686">Preakness Stakes 2026 | Napoleon Solo, with 7-1 odds, wins second jewel of Triple Crown - WATCH</a>&nbsp;CSK management had earlier indicated that Dhoni did not want to become a distraction by staying around the squad without being part of the playing XI. There were also reports that he preferred not to disrupt a settled combination.&nbsp;However, after CSK’s recent defeat to LSG, the team could be eager to bring the veteran back into the side, especially with younger players struggling for consistency.&nbsp;Adding to the suspense, CSK pacer Spencer Johnson avoided giving a direct answer about Dhoni’s availability during the pre-match press conference.<h3>Could this be Dhoni’s final IPL appearance?</h3>Dhoni’s inclusion may only become clear once the team arrives at the stadium. But for fans, that news could carry emotional weight beyond just one match.&nbsp;The former India captain has previously spoken about his desire to retire at Chepauk, the venue most closely associated with his IPL legacy. With uncertainty over whether he will continue until 2027, this game could potentially mark his final appearance in the league.

Ahead of the SRH clash, Dhoni trained with the CSK squad and spent significant time in the nets, though his presence does not confirm a return.

All eyes at MA Chidambaram Stadium will be on MS Dhoni as Chennai Super Kings take on Sunrisers Hyderabad in their final home fixture of the IPL 2026 season. The 44-year-old picked up a calf injury before the campaign began and CSK’s official update stated that he would be sidelined for around two weeks. More than seven weeks have passed since then, yet the veteran wicketkeeper has still not featured in a matchday squad. Although Dhoni resumed training early in the season, he has not travelled with the side for away fixtures and has mainly stayed away from the dugout even during home matches, leaving fans puzzled for clarity. Midway through the season, CSK head coach Stephen Fleming revealed that Dhoni had suffered a setback during recovery, delaying his comeback further. Batting coach Michael Hussey, however, repeatedly maintained that Dhoni looked comfortable while batting. The concern, it appears, has been more about his movement on the field and running between the wickets rather than his ability with the bat. Also Read - IPL 2026: RCB through to playoffs; seven teams still fighting for remaining three spots? Check possible scenarios Will Dhoni play against SRH? Ahead of the clash with SRH, Dhoni once again trained with the squad and reportedly spent considerable time in the nets, but, training appearances are no guarantee of a return. A major talking point emerged when Ravichandran Ashwin, speaking on his YouTube channel, said that he had “heard” Dhoni was ready to play over the past two to three matches and felt there was a strong possibility of him featuring against Hyderabad. Also Read - Preakness Stakes 2026 | Napoleon Solo, with 7-1 odds, wins second jewel of Triple Crown - WATCH CSK management had earlier indicated that Dhoni did not want to become a distraction by staying around the squad without being part of the playing XI. There were also reports that he preferred not to disrupt a settled combination. However, after CSK’s recent defeat to LSG, the team could be eager to bring the veteran back into the side, especially with younger players struggling for consistency. Adding to the suspense, CSK pacer Spencer Johnson avoided giving a direct answer about Dhoni’s availability during the pre-match press conference. Could this be Dhoni’s final IPL appearance? Dhoni’s inclusion may only become clear once the team arrives at the stadium. But for fans, that news could carry emotional weight beyond just one match. The former India captain has previously spoken about his desire to retire at Chepauk, the venue most closely associated with his IPL legacy. With uncertainty over whether he will continue until 2027, this game could potentially mark his final appearance in the league.

Ahead of the SRH clash, Dhoni trained with the CSK squad and spent significant time in the nets, though his presence does not confirm a return.

IPL 2026: Will MS Dhoni play in CSK vs SRH at Chepauk? Here’s what we know

Napoleon Solo is the winner of Preakness Stakes - second jewel of the US horse racing's triple crown, which took place on Sunday (May 17). Entering the race at 7-1 odds, three three-year-old colt was at the back stretch for most parts before getting momentum at the final straight and racing home comfortably. The race was held at Laurel Park, halfway between Washington and Baltimore, with limited capacity crowd capped at 4,800 as the original home of race Pimlico Course is under renovation. Kentucky Derby winner Golden Tempo did not take part in the race, leaving 14-horse field wide open.Also Read - <a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/-from-exercise-rider-to-winner-watch-how-trainer-cherie-devaux-s-golden-tempo-beat-25-1odds-to-win-kentucky-derby-2026-official-result-prize-money-1777878683253">'From exercise rider to winner': How trainer Cherie DeVaux's Golden Tempo beat 25-1 odds to win Kentucky Derby 2026</a><h2>How Napoleon Solo won Preakness Stakes?</h2>Taj Mahal was the favorite to win with 9-2 odds, best for a Preakness race since it move to its current length of 1 3/16 miles in 1925. Along with Taj Mahal, Iron Honor also had 9-2 odds which moved to 8-1 before entering the gate. Nonetheless, Napoleon Solo won it and did so with some comfort. Have a look at the video below:

<blockquote class="twitter-tweet" data-media-max-width="560">A DOMINANT performance at the 151st Preakness Stakes for Napoleon Solo!👏 📺: 151st Preakness Stakes on NBC and Peacock <a href="https://t.co/tOMYK1Asjl">pic.twitter.com/tOMYK1Asjl</a>&mdash; NBC Sports (@NBCSports) <a href="https://twitter.com/NBCSports/status/2055791607039861007?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">May 16, 2026</a></blockquote> <script async src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script>

Iron Honor finished second and Chip Honcho, with 1-1 odds, finished third in the race. Speaking after the win, Napoleon Solo's trainder Chad Summers said: "All year long, fifth place, fifth place. Everyone said he wasn't as good as he was in the Champagne. This was a win here. People will say it wasn't against the best of the best. We'll find out the rest of the year."<h2>How much prize money was there for Preakness Stakes?</h2>The Preakness Stakes had a prize money pool of $2 million. Napoleon Solo went home with $1.2 million of total prize money as the winner of 151st Preakness Stakes. Out of the total prize money, the owner of Napoleon Solo gets 80%, which is about $960,000 and rest 20% divided between the trainer and the jockey, meaning Summers and jockey Paco Lopez get abouta $120,000 each for the win.

Napoleon Solo, who entered the race at 7-1 odds, won the Preakness Stakes 2026 on Sunday (May 17) at Laurel Park and took home $1.2 million prize money.

Napoleon Solo is the winner of Preakness Stakes - second jewel of the US horse racing's triple crown, which took place on Sunday (May 17). Entering the race at 7-1 odds, three three-year-old colt was at the back stretch for most parts before getting momentum at the final straight and racing home comfortably. The race was held at Laurel Park, halfway between Washington and Baltimore, with limited capacity crowd capped at 4,800 as the original home of race Pimlico Course is under renovation. Kentucky Derby winner Golden Tempo did not take part in the race, leaving 14-horse field wide open. Also Read - 'From exercise rider to winner': How trainer Cherie DeVaux's Golden Tempo beat 25-1 odds to win Kentucky Derby 2026 How Napoleon Solo won Preakness Stakes? Taj Mahal was the favorite to win with 9-2 odds, best for a Preakness race since it move to its current length of 1 3/16 miles in 1925. Along with Taj Mahal, Iron Honor also had 9-2 odds which moved to 8-1 before entering the gate. Nonetheless, Napoleon Solo won it and did so with some comfort. Have a look at the video below:

Napoleon Solo, who entered the race at 7-1 odds, won the Preakness Stakes 2026 on Sunday (May 17) at Laurel Park and took home $1.2 million prize money.

Preakness Stakes 2026 | Napoleon Solo, with 7-1 odds, wins second jewel of Triple Crown - WATCH

The race for the Indian Premier League (IPL) 2026 playoffs has intensified, with seven teams still battling for the final three spots as the points table remains tightly packed. On Sunday (May 17), Delhi Capitals kept their playoff hopes alive with a thrilling final-over chase of 194 against the Rajasthan Royals at the Arun Jaitley Stadium in Delhi. The victory boosted DC’s chances while dealing a major setback to RR, whose qualification are now uncertain.&nbsp;&nbsp;So far, Royal Challengers Bengaluru are the only team to have officially secured a playoff berth, sealing qualification after defeating Punjab Kings on Sunday.&nbsp;With Mumbai Indians and Lucknow Super Giants already eliminated, seven teams remain in contention for the remaining playoff positions. Here’s a look at how the qualification scenarios stand.<h3>Gujarat Titans</h3>GT are on the verge of qualification with 16 points from 13 games. A win in their final league match against Chennai Super Kings will guarantee a playoff berth and could even help them secure a top-two finish. If they lose, they will depend on at least one of CSK, RR or SRH finishing on 16 points or fewer.&nbsp;&nbsp;Also Read - <a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/who-is-aaron-rai-the-british-indian-golfer-makes-history-at-pga-championship-1779084968624">From Augusta Curse to History: Aaron Rai, Englishman with Indian roots, is first British golfer to win PGA Championship in a century</a><h3>Sunrisers Hyderabad</h3>SRH currently sit comfortably in third place with 14 points from 12 matches. They face CSK and RCB in their remaining fixtures and victories in both games will ensure qualification. One win could still be enough depending on other results, but consecutive defeats would leave them in a difficult position. A win over CSK in their next match would officially seal qualification for both SRH and GT.<h3>Punjab Kings</h3>PBKS suffered their sixth straight defeat of the season after losing to RCB and are currently fourth in the standings with 13 points from 13 games. To stay alive, they must beat LSG in their final match and hope that only one among CSK, RR and SRH crosses the 15-point mark, which is PBKS’ maximum possible tally. They will also need KKR to loose both of their remaining matches.&nbsp;Also Read - <a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/who-won-yesterday-s-ipl-2026-match-between-dc-vs-rajasthan-royals-check-result-1779073694228">Who won yesterday's IPL 2026 match between DC vs Rajasthan Royals? Check result</a><h3>Rajasthan Royals</h3>RR’s defeat against DC has significantly complicated their campaign. With 12 points from 12 matches, they must ideally win both remaining games to stay in control of their playoff hopes. However, if CSK win both of their remaining fixtures and SRH defeat RCB, RR may still miss out if net run rate comes into play.<h3>Chennai Super Kings</h3>CSK received a timely boost after losses for PBKS and RR. Currently fifth with 12 points from 12 matches, CSK can put themselves in a strong position by beating SRH and GT. However, qualification could still depend on net run rate if SRH also defeat RCB and RR win both of their remaining matches.<h3>Delhi Capitals</h3>DC are still mathematically alive in the race. With 12 points from 13 matches, they must defeat KKR in their final league game and hope PBKS lose to LSG. They also need CSK and RR to win no more than one of their remaining two games each, leaving them tied on 14 points and forcing qualification to be decided by net run rate.&nbsp;Alternatively, if CSK and RR lose both their matches and PBKS lose to LSG, DC can qualify directly without relying on NRR.<h3>Kolkata Knight Riders</h3>KKR remain in contention but have very little margin for error. They are eighth with 11 points from 12 games and still have to face MI and DC. To qualify, KKR must win both fixtures and hope CSK and RR manage only one victory each from their final two matches.&nbsp;Another possible route opens if SRH fail to win either of their remaining games while CSK and RR stay below 16 points.

IPL 2026: After RCB qualified for the playoffs, seven teams remain in contention for the remaining three spots. Here are the possible scenarios.

The race for the Indian Premier League (IPL) 2026 playoffs has intensified, with seven teams still battling for the final three spots as the points table remains tightly packed. On Sunday (May 17), Delhi Capitals kept their playoff hopes alive with a thrilling final-over chase of 194 against the Rajasthan Royals at the Arun Jaitley Stadium in Delhi. The victory boosted DC’s chances while dealing a major setback to RR, whose qualification are now uncertain. So far, Royal Challengers Bengaluru are the only team to have officially secured a playoff berth, sealing qualification after defeating Punjab Kings on Sunday. With Mumbai Indians and Lucknow Super Giants already eliminated, seven teams remain in contention for the remaining playoff positions. Here’s a look at how the qualification scenarios stand. Gujarat Titans GT are on the verge of qualification with 16 points from 13 games. A win in their final league match against Chennai Super Kings will guarantee a playoff berth and could even help them secure a top-two finish. If they lose, they will depend on at least one of CSK, RR or SRH finishing on 16 points or fewer. Also Read - From Augusta Curse to History: Aaron Rai, Englishman with Indian roots, is first British golfer to win PGA Championship in a century Sunrisers Hyderabad SRH currently sit comfortably in third place with 14 points from 12 matches. They face CSK and RCB in their remaining fixtures and victories in both games will ensure qualification. One win could still be enough depending on other results, but consecutive defeats would leave them in a difficult position. A win over CSK in their next match would officially seal qualification for both SRH and GT. Punjab Kings PBKS suffered their sixth straight defeat of the season after losing to RCB and are currently fourth in the standings with 13 points from 13 games. To stay alive, they must beat LSG in their final match and hope that only one among CSK, RR and SRH crosses the 15-point mark, which is PBKS’ maximum possible tally. They will also need KKR to loose both of their remaining matches. Also Read - Who won yesterday's IPL 2026 match between DC vs Rajasthan Royals? Check result Rajasthan Royals RR’s defeat against DC has significantly complicated their campaign. With 12 points from 12 matches, they must ideally win both remaining games to stay in control of their playoff hopes. However, if CSK win both of their remaining fixtures and SRH defeat RCB, RR may still miss out if net run rate comes into play. Chennai Super Kings CSK received a timely boost after losses for PBKS and RR. Currently fifth with 12 points from 12 matches, CSK can put themselves in a strong position by beating SRH and GT. However, qualification could still depend on net run rate if SRH also defeat RCB and RR win both of their remaining matches. Delhi Capitals DC are still mathematically alive in the race. With 12 points from 13 matches, they must defeat KKR in their final league game and hope PBKS lose to LSG. They also need CSK and RR to win no more than one of their remaining two games each, leaving them tied on 14 points and forcing qualification to be decided by net run rate. Alternatively, if CSK and RR lose both their matches and PBKS lose to LSG, DC can qualify directly without relying on NRR. Kolkata Knight Riders KKR remain in contention but have very little margin for error. They are eighth with 11 points from 12 games and still have to face MI and DC. To qualify, KKR must win both fixtures and hope CSK and RR manage only one victory each from their final two matches. Another possible route opens if SRH fail to win either of their remaining games while CSK and RR stay below 16 points.

IPL 2026: After RCB qualified for the playoffs, seven teams remain in contention for the remaining three spots. Here are the possible scenarios.

IPL 2026: RCB through to playoffs; seven teams still fighting for remaining three spots? Check possible scenarios

At the Augusta Masters last month, Englishman Aaron Rai had won par-three contest before the tournament began. He made birdies on the last two holes to win the par-three contest and effectively took the curse which, as the folklore goes, barred him from winning the year's first major. He finished 48th at the Masters and proved the curse right which states that 'no par-three contest winner has been able to wear the prestigious green jacket in the same year.' Rai, however, was not worried about it and had said that time: "I'm not sure if it's a good omen or not, but just really nice to play well, enjoy it and share the experience with my family." Nearly a month later, he is the first English golfer to win the PGA Championship in over a century. Rai won year's second major and his first on Sunday (May 17) with a five-under final round score and nine-under in total.<h2>Who is Aaron Rai?</h2>Aaron Rai, 31, is an English golfer, born in Wolverhampton, who went pro at the age of 17 instead of going to the USA for college golf. He joined the PGA Tour in 2022 after being successful on the DP World Tour, previously European tour. Before winning the PGA Championship on Sunday (May 17), Rai, at best, had finished 19th at a golf major - at 2024 U.S. Open and 2025 PGA Championship.Also Watch - <a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/pga-championship-watch-rory-mcilroy-loses-cool-and-says-shut-the-f-up-to-fan-1779082698359">PGA Championship | McIlroy loses cool and says 'shut the f*** up' to fan</a><h2>Does Aaron Rai have Indian ancestry?</h2>Yes, Aaron Rai does have Indian roots and is married to an Indian golfer as well. He was born on May 3, 1995 to Amrik Singh, son of Indian immigrants, and Dalvir Shukla, who had moved to England from Kenya with her parents as teenager. Rai's wife Gaurika Bishnoi is an Indian female golfer and multi-time winner of the Hero Women’s Pro Golf Tour.<h2>What Rai said about his first golf major?</h2>Rai credited his upbringing in the working-class family for his success and said: Golf was always a very big part of my life from a very young age, but my mom and my siblings were very fast to reinforce the importance of just being a good person and trying to do the right things. My dad instilled the importance of work and dedication and trying to consistently build just good, strong habits around the game. My mom worked extremely hard away from golf. She worked a couple of jobs at one time and she did a lot of work around the house."There was a lot of consistent messaging of hard work. It has been something I've just grown up with and I guess as I've got older, something that I've really valued and tried to continue to move forward with."He also acknowledged his multi-nation roots and said: "I'm very proud to be from England. That's where I grew up. That's where a lot of my family still live. I'm very proud of India and Kenya as well. My mom still spends a lot of time in Kenya. Both of my sets of grandparents from my mom and dad's side were from India. I'm very proud of representing all three really."

Aaron Rai, the golfer with Indian roots, has become the first Englishman to win PGA Championship since Jim Barnes’ triumph in 1919. He won $3.69 million prize money.

At the Augusta Masters last month, Englishman Aaron Rai had won par-three contest before the tournament began. He made birdies on the last two holes to win the par-three contest and effectively took the curse which, as the folklore goes, barred him from winning the year's first major. He finished 48th at the Masters and proved the curse right which states that 'no par-three contest winner has been able to wear the prestigious green jacket in the same year.' Rai, however, was not worried about it and had said that time: "I'm not sure if it's a good omen or not, but just really nice to play well, enjoy it and share the experience with my family." Nearly a month later, he is the first English golfer to win the PGA Championship in over a century. Rai won year's second major and his first on Sunday (May 17) with a five-under final round score and nine-under in total. Who is Aaron Rai? Aaron Rai, 31, is an English golfer, born in Wolverhampton, who went pro at the age of 17 instead of going to the USA for college golf. He joined the PGA Tour in 2022 after being successful on the DP World Tour, previously European tour. Before winning the PGA Championship on Sunday (May 17), Rai, at best, had finished 19th at a golf major - at 2024 U.S. Open and 2025 PGA Championship. Also Watch - PGA Championship | McIlroy loses cool and says 'shut the f*** up' to fan Does Aaron Rai have Indian ancestry? Yes, Aaron Rai does have Indian roots and is married to an Indian golfer as well. He was born on May 3, 1995 to Amrik Singh, son of Indian immigrants, and Dalvir Shukla, who had moved to England from Kenya with her parents as teenager. Rai's wife Gaurika Bishnoi is an Indian female golfer and multi-time winner of the Hero Women’s Pro Golf Tour. What Rai said about his first golf major? Rai credited his upbringing in the working-class family for his success and said: Golf was always a very big part of my life from a very young age, but my mom and my siblings were very fast to reinforce the importance of just being a good person and trying to do the right things. My dad instilled the importance of work and dedication and trying to consistently build just good, strong habits around the game. My mom worked extremely hard away from golf. She worked a couple of jobs at one time and she did a lot of work around the house. "There was a lot of consistent messaging of hard work. It has been something I've just grown up with and I guess as I've got older, something that I've really valued and tried to continue to move forward with." He also acknowledged his multi-nation roots and said: "I'm very proud to be from England. That's where I grew up. That's where a lot of my family still live. I'm very proud of India and Kenya as well. My mom still spends a lot of time in Kenya. Both of my sets of grandparents from my mom and dad's side were from India. I'm very proud of representing all three really."

Aaron Rai, the golfer with Indian roots, has become the first Englishman to win PGA Championship since Jim Barnes’ triumph in 1919. He won $3.69 million prize money.

From Augusta Curse to History: Aaron Rai, Englishman with Indian roots, is first British golfer to win PGA Championship in a century

Rory McIlroy, the six-time major winner and 2026 Augusta Masters champ, had a forgettable PGA Championship which concluded on Sunday (May 17). The Northern Irishman finished joint seventh with 1-under after four rounds but it was him losing cool on a fan in the final round which grabbed the attention. McIlroy was heckled by a fan in Sunday at Aronimink Golf Club in Philadelphia and he responded promptly using F-word before pointing the security towards the fan. It is not uncommon for USA-based fans to try and get under the skin of European Ryder Cup players with the rivalry between the USA and Europe sometimes getting out of hand.Also Read - <a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/pga-championship-aaron-rai-becomes-first-englishman-to-win-title-in-107-years-1779072664837">PGA Championship | Aaron Rai becomes first Englishman to win title in 107 years</a><h2>Was Rory McIlroy heckled by a fan at PGA Championship?</h2>During the 16th hole in the back 9, which was a par-5, McIlroy's tee shot landed straight into the rough. From that moment on, a particular fan started chanting 'U-S-A' repeatedly. McIlroy, who usually replies which is game, this time landed the next shot in the greenside bunker. The fan, much to Rory's dismay, continued to shout 'U-S-A' and McIlroy eventually looked at him and appeared to say on CBS telecast 'Shut the f*** up' before pointing the fan to security. Whether the fan was taken out of golf course or not, is not known. Have a look at the video of the incident below:

<blockquote class="twitter-tweet" data-media-max-width="560">🚨🗣️ ‘SHUT THE F— UP!’ 🫨 Rory McIlroy loses it on a fan during his final round at The PGA Championship and appears to direct security to have them removed. <a href="https://t.co/rlIxfPW9ln">pic.twitter.com/rlIxfPW9ln</a>&mdash; NUCLR GOLF (@NUCLRGOLF) <a href="https://twitter.com/NUCLRGOLF/status/2056132087002894680?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">May 17, 2026</a></blockquote> <script async src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script>

<h2>What did Rory say about his performance at PGA Championship?</h2>McIlroy has won the PGA Championship two times - 2012 and 2014 - making it more than a decade that he has won this major. After winning the Augusta Masters last month, Rory was expected to put up a strong show at the PGA Championship but failed to do so. He was three strokes off the lead leading to the final round but ended up short of making the necessary plays."I think not birdieing the two par-5s and making the bogey at the drivable par-4 13th," McIlroy said. "To me, I felt like I played the golf I needed to play the rest of the way. If I birdied the two par-5s and turned that 5 into a 3 on 13, the day looks very different."&nbsp;

Not having a great tournament, Rory McIlroy used the f-word after being heckled by a fan who shouted ‘USA’ at him for a couple of poor shots on par-5 16th hole in final round.

Rory McIlroy, the six-time major winner and 2026 Augusta Masters champ, had a forgettable PGA Championship which concluded on Sunday (May 17). The Northern Irishman finished joint seventh with 1-under after four rounds but it was him losing cool on a fan in the final round which grabbed the attention. McIlroy was heckled by a fan in Sunday at Aronimink Golf Club in Philadelphia and he responded promptly using F-word before pointing the security towards the fan. It is not uncommon for USA-based fans to try and get under the skin of European Ryder Cup players with the rivalry between the USA and Europe sometimes getting out of hand. Also Read - PGA Championship | Aaron Rai becomes first Englishman to win title in 107 years Was Rory McIlroy heckled by a fan at PGA Championship? During the 16th hole in the back 9, which was a par-5, McIlroy's tee shot landed straight into the rough. From that moment on, a particular fan started chanting 'U-S-A' repeatedly. McIlroy, who usually replies which is game, this time landed the next shot in the greenside bunker. The fan, much to Rory's dismay, continued to shout 'U-S-A' and McIlroy eventually looked at him and appeared to say on CBS telecast 'Shut the f*** up' before pointing the fan to security. Whether the fan was taken out of golf course or not, is not known. Have a look at the video of the incident below:

Not having a great tournament, Rory McIlroy used the f-word after being heckled by a fan who shouted ‘USA’ at him for a couple of poor shots on par-5 16th hole in final round.

PGA Championship | Rory McIlroy says 'shut the f*** up' to fan after being heckled - WATCH

Delhi Capitals (DC) beat Rajasthan Royals (RR) in IPL 2026 match on Sunday (May 17) by five wickets in Delhi to stay alive in the playoff race. Chasing 194, DC were always in cruise control after 105-run opening partnership between KL Rahul and Abhishek Porel. DC eventually reached the target in 19.2 overs and bought themselves another day in the tournament. With 12 points from six wins and seven losses in 13 matches, DC's best chance to get into playoffs is to win their last league match. RR, on the other hand, also have 12 points but have two matches left and must win both of them if they are to make final four.Also Read - <a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/ipl-2026-punjab-kings-management-admits-arshdeep-singh-battled-physical-issues-all-season-points-table-pbks-vs-rcb-1779000816710">IPL 2026: Punjab management admits Arshdeep Singh battled physical issues all season</a><h2>DC openers do the heavy lifting</h2>194 wasn't a big target but still partnership was needed to reach their and DC openers, KL Rahul and Abhishek Porel, took it upon them build that partnership. The duo added 105 runs for the first wicket in 10 overs before Porel (51) was dismissed. DC did lose four more wickets after that at regular interval - Sahil Parekh (9) at 122, Rahul (56) at 133, Tristan Stubbs (4) at 153, and David Miller (9) at 175 - but the opening partnership and lesser target kept them in hunt. Skipper Axar Patel remained not out on 34 while Ashutosh Sharma hit 18 not out off 5 balls to take DC home with four balls and five wickets to spare.<h2>Starc changes things around for DC</h2>Batting first, Royals lost Yashasvi Jaiswal (12) early in the second over before Vaibhav Sooryavanshi (46 off 21) and Dhruv Jurel added 70 runs for the second wicket in 5.4 overs. After Vaibhav's dismissal, skipper Parag (51 off 26) and Jurel added 72 runs in the next seven overs before Starc hit. The left-arm pace dismisses Parag, Donovan Ferreira (0), and Ravi Singh (4) in space of four balls in the 15th over to bring RR down to 165/5 from 161/2. The Royals cold not get going from there on and finished at 193/8 in 20 overs - which proved not enough in the end.

Delhi Capitals (DC) beat RR by five wickets to stay alive in the IPL 2026 for another day with one more league match left for them. RR, on the other hand, have two matches left in the tournament.

Delhi Capitals (DC) beat Rajasthan Royals (RR) in IPL 2026 match on Sunday (May 17) by five wickets in Delhi to stay alive in the playoff race. Chasing 194, DC were always in cruise control after 105-run opening partnership between KL Rahul and Abhishek Porel. DC eventually reached the target in 19.2 overs and bought themselves another day in the tournament. With 12 points from six wins and seven losses in 13 matches, DC's best chance to get into playoffs is to win their last league match. RR, on the other hand, also have 12 points but have two matches left and must win both of them if they are to make final four. Also Read - IPL 2026: Punjab management admits Arshdeep Singh battled physical issues all season DC openers do the heavy lifting 194 wasn't a big target but still partnership was needed to reach their and DC openers, KL Rahul and Abhishek Porel, took it upon them build that partnership. The duo added 105 runs for the first wicket in 10 overs before Porel (51) was dismissed. DC did lose four more wickets after that at regular interval - Sahil Parekh (9) at 122, Rahul (56) at 133, Tristan Stubbs (4) at 153, and David Miller (9) at 175 - but the opening partnership and lesser target kept them in hunt. Skipper Axar Patel remained not out on 34 while Ashutosh Sharma hit 18 not out off 5 balls to take DC home with four balls and five wickets to spare. Starc changes things around for DC Batting first, Royals lost Yashasvi Jaiswal (12) early in the second over before Vaibhav Sooryavanshi (46 off 21) and Dhruv Jurel added 70 runs for the second wicket in 5.4 overs. After Vaibhav's dismissal, skipper Parag (51 off 26) and Jurel added 72 runs in the next seven overs before Starc hit. The left-arm pace dismisses Parag, Donovan Ferreira (0), and Ravi Singh (4) in space of four balls in the 15th over to bring RR down to 165/5 from 161/2. The Royals cold not get going from there on and finished at 193/8 in 20 overs - which proved not enough in the end.

Delhi Capitals (DC) beat RR by five wickets to stay alive in the IPL 2026 for another day with one more league match left for them. RR, on the other hand, have two matches left in the tournament.

Who won yesterday's IPL 2026 match between Delhi Capitals vs Rajasthan Royals? Check result

Aaron Rai won his first major title on Sunday by capturing the PGA Championship, making birdies on four of the last eight holes to become the first Englishman to win the event in 107 years. Rai sealed a tense back-nine shootout with a spectacular 68-foot birdie putt on the par-three 17th, firing his career-low major round with a five-under-par 65 to finish 72 holes on nine-under 271 at formidable Aronimink."Very surreal," said Rai, who has fought a neck injury this year. "It has been a frustrating season so to be standing here is outside my modest imagination."He defeated two-time major winner Jon Rahm of Spain and American Alex Smalley by three strokes with American Justin Thomas, Germany's Matti Schmid and Sweden's Ludvig Aberg sharing fourth on 275.The 31-year-old from Wombourne in central England took home a $3.69 million top prize from a record purse of $20.5 million and the Wanamaker Trophy after a dramatic final day.Rai became only the second English player to win the PGA after Jim Barnes captured the first two titles in 1916 and 1919."Extremely proud," Rai said. "There's a lot of incredible and historic English players over those hundred years who have gone on to achieve incredible things and had phenomenal careers."To be the person that's the first one to have won it in a long time from England is an amazing thing and something to be extremely proud of."Never better than 19th in 12 prior major starts, Rai won his third DP World Tour title last November in Abu Dhabi and his only PGA Tour title in 2024 at Greensboro.<h2>Cautious finale</h2>Playing cautiously in windy weather on Aronimink's sloped greens, the world's top golfers battled the course and each other in a fight that turned as Rai surged into the lead.Rai answered a bogey at eight with a 40-foot eagle putt at the par-five ninth, then sank birdie putts from four feet at 11 and seven feet at 13, becoming the week's first to reach seven-under.Schmid, seeking his first PGA Tour title in his fifth major start and first PGA Championship, sank a birdie putt from just inside nine feet at 13 to pull within one of the lead.Rai responded by reaching the green in two at the par-five 16th to set up a tap-in birdie.He then delivered a knockout blow by curling in his monster birdie putt over a ridge at 17 to reach nine-under while Schmid made bogey at 15 to leave Rai ahead by four strokes."I definitely wasn't trying to hole that putt," Rai said. "The shadow gave the putt a nice line the last 10 feet so that helped. It was about the speed of the putt. Nice to see it go in."Rahm, the 2021 US Open and 2023 Masters champion, birdied the ninth to reach five-under but made only a bogey and eight pars on the back side."I played really good golf," Rahm said. "Just wish I'd have done better with the speed of the greens. Just couldn't seem to get it to the hole, and that's the reason why I didn't hole any more putts."Even so, what Aaron did today, catching him could have been very difficult. I feel like I was still close on that playing 16 until he made that long putt."World number two Rory McIlroy, who won his sixth major title at last month's Masters, shot 69 to share seventh on 276 with American Xander Schauffele and Australian Cameron Smith.Unheralded Smalley, in only his fifth major, teed off with a one-stroke lead and nine major winners among 22 players within four shots.A double bogey at the sixth and bogey at the par-three eighth plunged Smalley back until his eagle-bogey-birdie finish.American Kurt Kitayama fired a bogey-free, seven-under-par 63 to match the lowest final round in major golf history."I'm ecstatic," Kitayama said.Top-ranked defending champion Scottie Scheffler shot 69 to finish on 278.

The 31-year-old from Wombourne in central England took home a $3.69 million top prize from a record purse of $20.5 million and the Wanamaker Trophy after a dramatic final. Rai became only the second English player to win the PGA after Jim Barnes captured the first two titles in 1916 and 1919.

Aaron Rai won his first major title on Sunday by capturing the PGA Championship, making birdies on four of the last eight holes to become the first Englishman to win the event in 107 years. Rai sealed a tense back-nine shootout with a spectacular 68-foot birdie putt on the par-three 17th, firing his career-low major round with a five-under-par 65 to finish 72 holes on nine-under 271 at formidable Aronimink. "Very surreal," said Rai, who has fought a neck injury this year. "It has been a frustrating season so to be standing here is outside my modest imagination." He defeated two-time major winner Jon Rahm of Spain and American Alex Smalley by three strokes with American Justin Thomas, Germany's Matti Schmid and Sweden's Ludvig Aberg sharing fourth on 275. The 31-year-old from Wombourne in central England took home a $3.69 million top prize from a record purse of $20.5 million and the Wanamaker Trophy after a dramatic final day. Rai became only the second English player to win the PGA after Jim Barnes captured the first two titles in 1916 and 1919. "Extremely proud," Rai said. "There's a lot of incredible and historic English players over those hundred years who have gone on to achieve incredible things and had phenomenal careers. "To be the person that's the first one to have won it in a long time from England is an amazing thing and something to be extremely proud of." Never better than 19th in 12 prior major starts, Rai won his third DP World Tour title last November in Abu Dhabi and his only PGA Tour title in 2024 at Greensboro. Cautious finale Playing cautiously in windy weather on Aronimink's sloped greens, the world's top golfers battled the course and each other in a fight that turned as Rai surged into the lead. Rai answered a bogey at eight with a 40-foot eagle putt at the par-five ninth, then sank birdie putts from four feet at 11 and seven feet at 13, becoming the week's first to reach seven-under. Schmid, seeking his first PGA Tour title in his fifth major start and first PGA Championship, sank a birdie putt from just inside nine feet at 13 to pull within one of the lead. Rai responded by reaching the green in two at the par-five 16th to set up a tap-in birdie. He then delivered a knockout blow by curling in his monster birdie putt over a ridge at 17 to reach nine-under while Schmid made bogey at 15 to leave Rai ahead by four strokes. "I definitely wasn't trying to hole that putt," Rai said. "The shadow gave the putt a nice line the last 10 feet so that helped. It was about the speed of the putt. Nice to see it go in." Rahm, the 2021 US Open and 2023 Masters champion, birdied the ninth to reach five-under but made only a bogey and eight pars on the back side. "I played really good golf," Rahm said. "Just wish I'd have done better with the speed of the greens. Just couldn't seem to get it to the hole, and that's the reason why I didn't hole any more putts. "Even so, what Aaron did today, catching him could have been very difficult. I feel like I was still close on that playing 16 until he made that long putt." World number two Rory McIlroy, who won his sixth major title at last month's Masters, shot 69 to share seventh on 276 with American Xander Schauffele and Australian Cameron Smith. Unheralded Smalley, in only his fifth major, teed off with a one-stroke lead and nine major winners among 22 players within four shots. A double bogey at the sixth and bogey at the par-three eighth plunged Smalley back until his eagle-bogey-birdie finish. American Kurt Kitayama fired a bogey-free, seven-under-par 63 to match the lowest final round in major golf history. "I'm ecstatic," Kitayama said. Top-ranked defending champion Scottie Scheffler shot 69 to finish on 278.

The 31-year-old from Wombourne in central England took home a $3.69 million top prize from a record purse of $20.5 million and the Wanamaker Trophy after a dramatic final. Rai became only the second English player to win the PGA after Jim Barnes captured the first two titles in 1916 and 1919.

PGA Championship | Aaron Rai becomes first Englishman to win title in 107 years

World No. 1 Jannik Sinner clinched the Italian Open 2026 title on Sunday (May 17) with a 6-4, 6-4 win over Norway’s Casper Ruud in the final, becoming the first Italian man since Adriano Panatta in 1976 to lift the Rome crown. With the victory, he also completed the career Golden Masters ahead of Roland Garros. Earlier in the match, Ruud started strongly and briefly put the top seed under pressure, capitalising as Sinner struggled to find rhythm and made several first-serve errors. However, at 4-4 in the opening set, Sinner raised his level, steadied his game and took control to clinch the set 6-4.&nbsp;The second set followed a similar pattern, with Sinner dictating play for long stretches, though Ruud continued to push him into extended, physically demanding rallies.&nbsp;Despite Ruud's improved preparation and resilience helped by having more recovery time before the final, Sinner maintained his composure and closed out the match with the same scoreline to secure the title on home soil.&nbsp;&nbsp;Also Read - <a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/ipl-2026-delhi-capitals-strengthen-playoff-hopes-with-a-five-wicket-win-over-rajasthan-royals-1779040420485">IPL 2026: Delhi Capitals strengthen playoff hopes with a five-wicket win over Rajasthan Royals</a>&nbsp;The final was also attended by Italian President Sergio Mattarella, who added extra significance to the occasion.&nbsp;With his one-hour and 44-minute win, Jannik Sinner became only the second player, alongside Novak Djokovic, to complete the Career Golden Masters by winning all nine ATP Masters 1000 titles. Djokovic had achieved the milestone in 2018 after his triumph in Cincinnati.&nbsp;"I think this year was the 50th year since an Italian won and I am really, really happy," Sinner said in his on-court interview.&nbsp;&nbsp;"There was a lot of tension on both sides; it was not perfect tennis from both of us, but I am really happy. An incredible past two and a half months. I try to put myself in the best possible position every time and do the best I can. Not every day is simple but I am really, really happy." Sinner has now captured five Masters 1000 crowns this season and stands one shy of matching Djokovic's record of six in a single year. &nbsp;With inputs from agencies

Jannik Sinner beat Casper Ruud 6-4, 6-4 to claim the Italian Open 2026, becoming the youngest to complete the Career Golden Masters by winning all nine ATP Masters titles.

World No. 1 Jannik Sinner clinched the Italian Open 2026 title on Sunday (May 17) with a 6-4, 6-4 win over Norway’s Casper Ruud in the final, becoming the first Italian man since Adriano Panatta in 1976 to lift the Rome crown. With the victory, he also completed the career Golden Masters ahead of Roland Garros. Earlier in the match, Ruud started strongly and briefly put the top seed under pressure, capitalising as Sinner struggled to find rhythm and made several first-serve errors. However, at 4-4 in the opening set, Sinner raised his level, steadied his game and took control to clinch the set 6-4. The second set followed a similar pattern, with Sinner dictating play for long stretches, though Ruud continued to push him into extended, physically demanding rallies. Despite Ruud's improved preparation and resilience helped by having more recovery time before the final, Sinner maintained his composure and closed out the match with the same scoreline to secure the title on home soil. Also Read - IPL 2026: Delhi Capitals strengthen playoff hopes with a five-wicket win over Rajasthan Royals The final was also attended by Italian President Sergio Mattarella, who added extra significance to the occasion. With his one-hour and 44-minute win, Jannik Sinner became only the second player, alongside Novak Djokovic, to complete the Career Golden Masters by winning all nine ATP Masters 1000 titles. Djokovic had achieved the milestone in 2018 after his triumph in Cincinnati. "I think this year was the 50th year since an Italian won and I am really, really happy," Sinner said in his on-court interview. "There was a lot of tension on both sides; it was not perfect tennis from both of us, but I am really happy. An incredible past two and a half months. I try to put myself in the best possible position every time and do the best I can. Not every day is simple but I am really, really happy." Sinner has now captured five Masters 1000 crowns this season and stands one shy of matching Djokovic's record of six in a single year. With inputs from agencies

Jannik Sinner beat Casper Ruud 6-4, 6-4 to claim the Italian Open 2026, becoming the youngest to complete the Career Golden Masters by winning all nine ATP Masters titles.

Jannik Sinner wins Italian Open title, completes Golden Masters feat

KL Rahul struck 56 off 42 deliveries and Abishek Porel contributed a brisk 51 from 31 balls as Delhi Capitals chased down 194 with four balls to spare, defeating Rajasthan Royals by five wickets at the Arun Jaitley Stadium on Sunday (May 17). The win kept DC’s IPL 2026 playoff hopes alive, although their path to the top four remains uncertain.&nbsp;Delhi’s innings slowed down a bit after their openers got out, but captain Axar Patel once again handled the pressure well. Coming off a good performance against Punjab Kings in Dharamsala, he carried that confidence into the home match and played an important finishing role when it mattered most.&nbsp;With 19 runs required from the final 11 balls, impact substitute Ashutosh Sharma provided the perfect support, smashing 18 runs off only five deliveries to complete the chase. Axar remained unbeaten on 34 from 18 balls.&nbsp;For Rajasthan Royals, Brijesh Sharma and Jofra Archer claimed two wickets each, while Dasun Shanaka chipped in with one scalp.&nbsp;Also Read - <a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/jannik-sinner-wins-italian-open-title-completes-golden-masters-feat-1779042218384">Jannik Sinner wins Italian Open title, completes Golden Masters feat</a>&nbsp;Earlier in the match, Dhruv Jurel top-scored with 53 off 40 balls, while Riyan Parag hammered 51 from just 26 deliveries to help Rajasthan post 193/8 after being asked to bat first.&nbsp;&nbsp;Youngster Vaibhav Sooryavanshi also impressed with a rapid 46 off 21 balls.During the knock, the left-hander overtook Virat Kohli and Abhishek Sharma for the most sixes by an Indian batter in a single IPL season, reaching 43 maximums.&nbsp;&nbsp;Also Read - <a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/vaibhav-sooryavanshi-scripts-history-with-most-sixes-by-an-indian-in-an-ipl-season-1779030637530">Vaibhav Sooryavanshi makes history with most sixes by an Indian in an IPL season</a>&nbsp;Rajasthan looked set for a massive total at 161/2 before Mitchell Starc changed the momentum with a decisive three-wicket over. The left-arm pacer finished with figures of 4/40, while Madhav Tiwari contributed with 2/27.&nbsp;At present, Delhi Capitals are currently seventh on the points table with 12 points from 13 matches. Rajasthan Royals also have 12 points but dropped to sixth due to a low net run rate, while Chennai Super Kings sit fifth with the same tally.

KL Rahul (56 off 42) and Abishek Porel (51 off 31) struck fluent half-centuries as Delhi Capitals defeated Rajasthan Royals by five wickets at Arun Jaitley Stadium.

KL Rahul struck 56 off 42 deliveries and Abishek Porel contributed a brisk 51 from 31 balls as Delhi Capitals chased down 194 with four balls to spare, defeating Rajasthan Royals by five wickets at the Arun Jaitley Stadium on Sunday (May 17). The win kept DC’s IPL 2026 playoff hopes alive, although their path to the top four remains uncertain. Delhi’s innings slowed down a bit after their openers got out, but captain Axar Patel once again handled the pressure well. Coming off a good performance against Punjab Kings in Dharamsala, he carried that confidence into the home match and played an important finishing role when it mattered most. With 19 runs required from the final 11 balls, impact substitute Ashutosh Sharma provided the perfect support, smashing 18 runs off only five deliveries to complete the chase. Axar remained unbeaten on 34 from 18 balls. For Rajasthan Royals, Brijesh Sharma and Jofra Archer claimed two wickets each, while Dasun Shanaka chipped in with one scalp. Also Read - Jannik Sinner wins Italian Open title, completes Golden Masters feat Earlier in the match, Dhruv Jurel top-scored with 53 off 40 balls, while Riyan Parag hammered 51 from just 26 deliveries to help Rajasthan post 193/8 after being asked to bat first. Youngster Vaibhav Sooryavanshi also impressed with a rapid 46 off 21 balls.During the knock, the left-hander overtook Virat Kohli and Abhishek Sharma for the most sixes by an Indian batter in a single IPL season, reaching 43 maximums. Also Read - Vaibhav Sooryavanshi makes history with most sixes by an Indian in an IPL season Rajasthan looked set for a massive total at 161/2 before Mitchell Starc changed the momentum with a decisive three-wicket over. The left-arm pacer finished with figures of 4/40, while Madhav Tiwari contributed with 2/27. At present, Delhi Capitals are currently seventh on the points table with 12 points from 13 matches. Rajasthan Royals also have 12 points but dropped to sixth due to a low net run rate, while Chennai Super Kings sit fifth with the same tally.

KL Rahul (56 off 42) and Abishek Porel (51 off 31) struck fluent half-centuries as Delhi Capitals defeated Rajasthan Royals by five wickets at Arun Jaitley Stadium.

IPL 2026: Delhi Capitals strengthen playoff hopes with a five-wicket win over Rajasthan Royals

Fifteen-year-old Vaibhav Sooryavanshi etched his name into history books on Sunday (May 17) after becoming the Indian batter with the most sixes in a single IPL season. Representing Rajasthan Royals in IPL 2026, the young sensation needed three maximums against Delhi Capitals to surpass Abhishek Sharma’s previous record of 42 sixes and he achieved the milestone in style, smashing his third six on the final delivery of the fifth over bowled by Tripurana Vijay.&nbsp;Currently Rajasthan Royals’ leading run-scorer this season, Sooryavanshi, has now accumulated 43 sixes in just 12 matches during IPL 2026.&nbsp;Abhishek Sharma had earlier set the benchmark in IPL 2024, striking 42 sixes across 16 games for Sunrisers Hyderabad.&nbsp;Also Read - <a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/ipl-2026-rcb-first-to-seal-playoff-spot-after-dominant-win-over-pbks-1779023187068">IPL 2026: RCB first to seal playoff spot after dominant win over PBKS</a>&nbsp;Among Indian players with the highest six tally in a single IPL season, Sooryavanshi and Abhishek are followed by Shreyas Iyer. The Punjab Kings captain blasted 39 sixes in 17 matches during the 2025 season.&nbsp;The all-time IPL record for most sixes in one season, however, still belongs to Chris Gayle, who smashed an incredible 59 sixes in 15 matches for Royal Challengers Bengaluru in 2012.&nbsp;Only two players in IPL history have crossed the 50-sixes mark in a single edition so far and Sooryavanshi now has a strong opportunity to join that exclusive club this season.&nbsp;Also Read - <a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/move-ipl-2026-behind-closed-doors-to-conserve-fuel-cti-urges-sports-ministry-petrol-diesel-price-hike-in-india-3-per-liter-playoff-schedule-1779031225795">Move IPL 2026 behind closed doors to conserve fuel, CTI urges Sports Ministry</a>&nbsp;For Rajasthan Royals, the record for most sixes in a single IPL campaign is held by Jos Buttler, who struck 45 sixes in 17 matches during the 2022 season. Sooryavanshi is now just three sixes away from overtaking that franchise milestone.<h2>Indian batters with most sixes in an IPL season&nbsp;</h2><ul><li>Vaibhav Sooryavanshi (Rajasthan Royals, IPL 2026) - 43 sixes in 12 matches</li><li>Abhishek Sharma (Sunrisers Hyderabad, IPL 2024) - 42 sixes in 16 matches</li><li>Shreyas Iyer (Punjab Kings, IPL 2025) - 39 sixes in 17 matches</li><li>Virat Kohli (Royal Challengers Bengaluru, IPL 2016) - 38 sixes in 16 matches</li></ul>

Fifteen-year-old Vaibhav Sooryavanshi set a new benchmark on Sunday (May 17) for the most sixes by an Indian in an IPL season.

Fifteen-year-old Vaibhav Sooryavanshi etched his name into history books on Sunday (May 17) after becoming the Indian batter with the most sixes in a single IPL season. Representing Rajasthan Royals in IPL 2026, the young sensation needed three maximums against Delhi Capitals to surpass Abhishek Sharma’s previous record of 42 sixes and he achieved the milestone in style, smashing his third six on the final delivery of the fifth over bowled by Tripurana Vijay. Currently Rajasthan Royals’ leading run-scorer this season, Sooryavanshi, has now accumulated 43 sixes in just 12 matches during IPL 2026. Abhishek Sharma had earlier set the benchmark in IPL 2024, striking 42 sixes across 16 games for Sunrisers Hyderabad. Also Read - IPL 2026: RCB first to seal playoff spot after dominant win over PBKS Among Indian players with the highest six tally in a single IPL season, Sooryavanshi and Abhishek are followed by Shreyas Iyer. The Punjab Kings captain blasted 39 sixes in 17 matches during the 2025 season. The all-time IPL record for most sixes in one season, however, still belongs to Chris Gayle, who smashed an incredible 59 sixes in 15 matches for Royal Challengers Bengaluru in 2012. Only two players in IPL history have crossed the 50-sixes mark in a single edition so far and Sooryavanshi now has a strong opportunity to join that exclusive club this season. Also Read - Move IPL 2026 behind closed doors to conserve fuel, CTI urges Sports Ministry For Rajasthan Royals, the record for most sixes in a single IPL campaign is held by Jos Buttler, who struck 45 sixes in 17 matches during the 2022 season. Sooryavanshi is now just three sixes away from overtaking that franchise milestone. Indian batters with most sixes in an IPL season Vaibhav Sooryavanshi (Rajasthan Royals, IPL 2026) - 43 sixes in 12 matches Abhishek Sharma (Sunrisers Hyderabad, IPL 2024) - 42 sixes in 16 matches Shreyas Iyer (Punjab Kings, IPL 2025) - 39 sixes in 17 matches Virat Kohli (Royal Challengers Bengaluru, IPL 2016) - 38 sixes in 16 matches

Fifteen-year-old Vaibhav Sooryavanshi set a new benchmark on Sunday (May 17) for the most sixes by an Indian in an IPL season.

Vaibhav Sooryavanshi scripts history with most sixes by an Indian in an IPL season

In a shocking development around surging fuel prices in India, the Chamber of Trade and Industry (CTI) has formally requested the Union Sports Ministry to move the ongoing IPL 2026 behind closed doors and limit venues. Per the latest reports, the CTI chairman, Brijesh Goyal, has formally written to Mansukh Mandaviya, the Sports Minister, urging the related authorities to hold the remaining IPL matches without audience to curb nationwide wastage.&nbsp;The trade body has also raised alarms over the tournament’s massive carbon and energy footprints following the recent hike in petrol and diesel prices. &nbsp;The CTI emphasised how constant team travel drains the energy reserves. As per their data, the chartered Boeing 737 and Airbus A320 aircraft (used by franchises) consume between 2,400 and 3,000 litres of Aviation Turbine Fuel (ATF) per hour. And with each taking roughly ten flights during the season, a single IPL team burns through 50,000 to 70,000 litres of fuel.<h3>More pressure</h3>Besides, Goyal further noted that, considering each IPL game attracts about 50,000 people to a venue, the local vehicular commute of these fans to and from the stadiums also results in a collective loss of thousands of litres of fuel.&nbsp;<h3>How to curb</h3>The CTI proposed several steps to ensure everyone is working towards achieving the same agenda. The trade body also argued that because the tournament had previously operated successfully within bio-bubbles and limited venues, similar measures could easily be redeployed to serve national interests. &nbsp;Meanwhile, IPL 2026 is already in its final league leg, with the playoffs beginning Tuesday (May 26). So far, only RCB, the defending champions, have sealed a playoff spot, with several teams fighting for the remaining three places.&nbsp;&nbsp;Also read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/ipl-2026-rcb-first-to-seal-playoff-spot-after-dominant-win-over-pbks-1779023187068">IPL 2026: RCB first to seal playoff spot after dominant win over PBKS</a>&nbsp;Gujarat Titans (GT), SunRisers Hyderabad (SRH), the Rajasthan Royals (RR) and a few others, including Punjab Kings, the Chennai Super Kings and the Kolkata Knight Riders, are among those eyeing a spot in the last four.&nbsp;

Move IPL 2026 behind closed doors? CTI urges Sports Minister Mansukh Mandaviya to restructure the remaining matches to tackle nationwide fuel strains.

In a shocking development around surging fuel prices in India, the Chamber of Trade and Industry (CTI) has formally requested the Union Sports Ministry to move the ongoing IPL 2026 behind closed doors and limit venues. Per the latest reports, the CTI chairman, Brijesh Goyal, has formally written to Mansukh Mandaviya, the Sports Minister, urging the related authorities to hold the remaining IPL matches without audience to curb nationwide wastage. The trade body has also raised alarms over the tournament’s massive carbon and energy footprints following the recent hike in petrol and diesel prices. The CTI emphasised how constant team travel drains the energy reserves. As per their data, the chartered Boeing 737 and Airbus A320 aircraft (used by franchises) consume between 2,400 and 3,000 litres of Aviation Turbine Fuel (ATF) per hour. And with each taking roughly ten flights during the season, a single IPL team burns through 50,000 to 70,000 litres of fuel. More pressure Besides, Goyal further noted that, considering each IPL game attracts about 50,000 people to a venue, the local vehicular commute of these fans to and from the stadiums also results in a collective loss of thousands of litres of fuel. How to curb The CTI proposed several steps to ensure everyone is working towards achieving the same agenda. The trade body also argued that because the tournament had previously operated successfully within bio-bubbles and limited venues, similar measures could easily be redeployed to serve national interests. Meanwhile, IPL 2026 is already in its final league leg, with the playoffs beginning Tuesday (May 26). So far, only RCB, the defending champions, have sealed a playoff spot, with several teams fighting for the remaining three places. Also read | IPL 2026: RCB first to seal playoff spot after dominant win over PBKS Gujarat Titans (GT), SunRisers Hyderabad (SRH), the Rajasthan Royals (RR) and a few others, including Punjab Kings, the Chennai Super Kings and the Kolkata Knight Riders, are among those eyeing a spot in the last four.

Move IPL 2026 behind closed doors? CTI urges Sports Minister Mansukh Mandaviya to restructure the remaining matches to tackle nationwide fuel strains.

Move IPL 2026 behind closed doors to conserve fuel, CTI urges Sports Ministry

Royal Challengers Bengaluru became the first team in IPL 2026 to qualify for the playoffs after defeating Punjab Kings by 23 runs in a high-scoring encounter at the Himachal Pradesh Cricket Association Stadium on Sunday (May 17). The result marked a sixth straight defeat for the Shreyas Iyer-led Punjab Kings, who failed to chase down 223 after a top-order collapse.&nbsp;Chasing a daunting total, PBKS lost wickets in quick succession, with Bhuvneshwar Kumar striking twice in the powerplay to remove Priyansh Arya for a duck and the in-form Prabhsimran Singh for just two. Captain Shreyas Iyer also fell cheaply, leaving the side under pressure.&nbsp;&nbsp;Although Suryansh Shedge (35 off 22) and Cooper Connolly briefly steadied the innings and later Shashank Singh (42) and Marcus Stoinis (37) also contributed, but regular breakthroughs kept PBKS on the back foot.&nbsp;Despite a late push in the death overs, they finished short of the target as RCB sealed the win and booked their playoff spot with 18 points.&nbsp;&nbsp;Also Read - <a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/thailand-open-2026-satwik-chirag-settle-for-silver-after-final-loss-1779015016444">Thailand Open 2026: Satwik-Chirag settle for silver after final loss</a>&nbsp;Earlier, RCB had posted a commanding 222/4, powered by half-centuries from Virat Kohli and Venkatesh Iyer. After a strong start in the powerplay, RCB kept the scoreboard ticking at a good pace and moved to 82/1 by the end of the seventh over.&nbsp;Also Read - <a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/ipl-2026-virat-kohli-scripts-history-becomes-first-batter-to-achieve-this-milestone-1779018856822">IPL 2026: Virat Kohli scripts history as first batter to reach THIS milestone</a> The impressive 76-run partnership between Kohli and Padikkal was eventually broken in the 10th over when Brar claimed his second wicket of the match by dismissing Padikkal for a quickfire 45 off 25 balls, an innings laced with four boundaries and three sixes. Kohli, who stitched two half-century stands, further extended his dominance in the tournament's record books. The RCB star has now been part of 138 partnerships of 50 or more runs in IPL history, comfortably ahead of Rohit Sharma, who occupies the second spot with 107 such stands. On the third delivery of the 17th over, Venkatesh brought up his maiden half-century of IPL 2026 in 29 balls. The milestone also marked the 13th fifty of his IPL career. By the end of the 18th over, Bengaluru had crossed the 200-run mark as Tim David and Venkatesh unleashed a flurry of attacking strokes to keep the scoring rate soaring. On the final ball of the 20th over, Arshdeep removed David after a quickfire 28 off just 12 deliveries, an innings featuring two boundaries and as many sixes, as RCB concluded their innings at a formidable 222/4. Venkatesh remained unbeaten on 73 from 40 balls, smashing eight fours and four sixes in a commanding knock. For PBKS, Brar was the pick of the bowlers with figures of 2/35, while Arshdeep and Chahal chipped in with one wicket each. Now, PBKS desperately need to win their next match against the already eliminated Lucknow Super Giants (LSG) on Saturday to stay alive in the race for the playoffs.&nbsp;With inputs from agencies

Royal Challengers Bengaluru became the first team to qualify for the IPL 2026 playoffs after defeating Punjab Kings in Dharamshala on Sunday.

Royal Challengers Bengaluru became the first team in IPL 2026 to qualify for the playoffs after defeating Punjab Kings by 23 runs in a high-scoring encounter at the Himachal Pradesh Cricket Association Stadium on Sunday (May 17). The result marked a sixth straight defeat for the Shreyas Iyer-led Punjab Kings, who failed to chase down 223 after a top-order collapse. Chasing a daunting total, PBKS lost wickets in quick succession, with Bhuvneshwar Kumar striking twice in the powerplay to remove Priyansh Arya for a duck and the in-form Prabhsimran Singh for just two. Captain Shreyas Iyer also fell cheaply, leaving the side under pressure. Although Suryansh Shedge (35 off 22) and Cooper Connolly briefly steadied the innings and later Shashank Singh (42) and Marcus Stoinis (37) also contributed, but regular breakthroughs kept PBKS on the back foot. Despite a late push in the death overs, they finished short of the target as RCB sealed the win and booked their playoff spot with 18 points. Also Read - Thailand Open 2026: Satwik-Chirag settle for silver after final loss Earlier, RCB had posted a commanding 222/4, powered by half-centuries from Virat Kohli and Venkatesh Iyer. After a strong start in the powerplay, RCB kept the scoreboard ticking at a good pace and moved to 82/1 by the end of the seventh over. Also Read - IPL 2026: Virat Kohli scripts history as first batter to reach THIS milestone The impressive 76-run partnership between Kohli and Padikkal was eventually broken in the 10th over when Brar claimed his second wicket of the match by dismissing Padikkal for a quickfire 45 off 25 balls, an innings laced with four boundaries and three sixes. Kohli, who stitched two half-century stands, further extended his dominance in the tournament's record books. The RCB star has now been part of 138 partnerships of 50 or more runs in IPL history, comfortably ahead of Rohit Sharma, who occupies the second spot with 107 such stands. On the third delivery of the 17th over, Venkatesh brought up his maiden half-century of IPL 2026 in 29 balls. The milestone also marked the 13th fifty of his IPL career. By the end of the 18th over, Bengaluru had crossed the 200-run mark as Tim David and Venkatesh unleashed a flurry of attacking strokes to keep the scoring rate soaring. On the final ball of the 20th over, Arshdeep removed David after a quickfire 28 off just 12 deliveries, an innings featuring two boundaries and as many sixes, as RCB concluded their innings at a formidable 222/4. Venkatesh remained unbeaten on 73 from 40 balls, smashing eight fours and four sixes in a commanding knock. For PBKS, Brar was the pick of the bowlers with figures of 2/35, while Arshdeep and Chahal chipped in with one wicket each. Now, PBKS desperately need to win their next match against the already eliminated Lucknow Super Giants (LSG) on Saturday to stay alive in the race for the playoffs. With inputs from agencies

Royal Challengers Bengaluru became the first team to qualify for the IPL 2026 playoffs after defeating Punjab Kings in Dharamshala on Sunday.

IPL 2026: RCB first to seal playoff spot after dominant win over PBKS

Virat Kohli added another landmark to his IPL career, becoming the first batter to score 500 or more runs in nine different seasons of the tournament. The iconic opener reached the milestone during Royal Challengers Bengaluru’s clash against Punjab Kings in Dharamsala on Sunday (May 17), once again showcasing the consistency that has defined his T20 career.&nbsp;&nbsp;The record further extends Virat Kohli’s lead among the league’s most prolific run-scorers, as no other batter has managed as many 500-run campaigns in IPL history, with KL Rahul and David Warner next on the list with seven such seasons each. Kohli’s latest feat also reflects his status as one of the tournament’s most reliable performers year after year.&nbsp;During the match on Sunday against PBKS, Kohli slammed 58 off 37 balls, hitting four boundaries and three sixes, guiding RCB to a strong total of 222/4.&nbsp;&nbsp;Also Read - <a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/ipl-2026-can-kkr-qualify-for-the-playoffs-after-29-run-win-over-gujarat-titans-1779010930140">IPL 2026: Can KKR qualify for the playoffs after 29-run win over Gujarat Titans?</a>&nbsp;Stepping up in the absence of the regular skipper, who was ruled out due to a sudden injury with captaincy duties handed to Jitesh Sharma, the veteran batter provided stability from the start and built a crucial 76-run second-wicket stand with Devdutt Padikkal, who contributed a quickfire 45.&nbsp;&nbsp;After Padikkal’s dismissal, Kohli continued the momentum, adding a brisk 60-run partnership for the third wicket with Venkatesh Iyer, keeping RCB firmly in control and setting up a commanding total.&nbsp;Also Read - <a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/thailand-open-2026-satwik-chirag-settle-for-silver-after-final-loss-1779015016444">Thailand Open 2026: Satwik-Chirag settle for silver after final loss</a><h3>Virat Kohli equals Alex Hales’ record for most 50-plus partnerships in men’s T20s</h3>The iconic Indian batter also moved level with Alex Hales for the most 50-plus partnerships in men’s T20 history, as both players now jointly leading the list at 210 such stands in the format. The elite list includes several T20 greats, with David Warner next on 200, followed by Babar Azam on 196 and Chris Gayle on 191.&nbsp;<h3>Batters involved in most 50-plus partnerships in T20s</h3><ul><li>210 - Alex Hales (England)</li><li>210 - Virat Kohli (India)</li><li>200 - David Warner (Australia)</li><li>196 - Babar Azam (Pakistan)</li><li>191 - Chris Gayle (West Indies)</li></ul>

PBKS vs RCB: Virat Kohli continues his remarkable run, notching another 500-run IPL season and extending his record.

Virat Kohli added another landmark to his IPL career, becoming the first batter to score 500 or more runs in nine different seasons of the tournament. The iconic opener reached the milestone during Royal Challengers Bengaluru’s clash against Punjab Kings in Dharamsala on Sunday (May 17), once again showcasing the consistency that has defined his T20 career. The record further extends Virat Kohli’s lead among the league’s most prolific run-scorers, as no other batter has managed as many 500-run campaigns in IPL history, with KL Rahul and David Warner next on the list with seven such seasons each. Kohli’s latest feat also reflects his status as one of the tournament’s most reliable performers year after year. During the match on Sunday against PBKS, Kohli slammed 58 off 37 balls, hitting four boundaries and three sixes, guiding RCB to a strong total of 222/4. Also Read - IPL 2026: Can KKR qualify for the playoffs after 29-run win over Gujarat Titans? Stepping up in the absence of the regular skipper, who was ruled out due to a sudden injury with captaincy duties handed to Jitesh Sharma, the veteran batter provided stability from the start and built a crucial 76-run second-wicket stand with Devdutt Padikkal, who contributed a quickfire 45. After Padikkal’s dismissal, Kohli continued the momentum, adding a brisk 60-run partnership for the third wicket with Venkatesh Iyer, keeping RCB firmly in control and setting up a commanding total. Also Read - Thailand Open 2026: Satwik-Chirag settle for silver after final loss Virat Kohli equals Alex Hales’ record for most 50-plus partnerships in men’s T20s The iconic Indian batter also moved level with Alex Hales for the most 50-plus partnerships in men’s T20 history, as both players now jointly leading the list at 210 such stands in the format. The elite list includes several T20 greats, with David Warner next on 200, followed by Babar Azam on 196 and Chris Gayle on 191. Batters involved in most 50-plus partnerships in T20s 210 - Alex Hales (England) 210 - Virat Kohli (India) 200 - David Warner (Australia) 196 - Babar Azam (Pakistan) 191 - Chris Gayle (West Indies)

PBKS vs RCB: Virat Kohli continues his remarkable run, notching another 500-run IPL season and extending his record.

IPL 2026: Virat Kohli scripts history, becomes first batter to achieve THIS milestone

India’s leading men’s doubles duo, Satwiksairaj Rankireddy and Chirag Shetty, settled for the runner-up finish at the Thailand Open 2026 after suffering a straight-games loss to Indonesia’s Leo Rolly Carnando and Daniel Marthin in the men’s doubles final on Sunday (May 17) at Nimibutr Stadium. The Indonesian pair dominated the opening game, taking advantage of a slow start from the Indians to win it 21-12.&nbsp;Satwik and Chirag responded strongly in the second game, pushing the contest to a tense finish. Despite saving five consecutive championship points, the Indian pair narrowly lost 25-23 in a final that lasted 53 minutes, as per a release from BAI Media.&nbsp;&nbsp;The silver medal was India’s lone podium finish at the tournament, as Lakshya Sen and PV Sindhu were eliminated in the quarter-finals of their respective events.&nbsp;Also Read - <a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/ipl-2026-can-kkr-qualify-for-the-playoffs-after-29-run-win-over-gujarat-titans-1779010930140">IPL 2026: Can KKR qualify for the playoffs after 29-run win over Gujarat Titans?</a>&nbsp;Earlier on Saturday, the two-time former champions Satwiksairaj Rankireddy and Chirag Shetty reached the final of the Thailand Open once again after missing last year's edition, defeating Malaysia's Goh Sze Fei and Nur Izzuddin 19-21, 22-20, 21-16.&nbsp;Also Read - <a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/vinesh-phogat-criticises-haryana-government-after-21-year-old-dies-in-swimming-pool-incident-1779012439855">Vinesh Phogat criticises Haryana government after 21-year-old dies in swimming pool incident</a> In the Round of 16 clash, the Indian pair defeated their Malaysian opponents, Goonting Bryan Jeremy and Haikal Muhammad, 21-12, 21-19. In the men's singles, Sen, the runner-up at the All England Open, was eliminated by Thailand's Kunlavut Vitidsarn in the quarter-final match, which shattered Indian hopes in the singles event. In women's singles, PV Sindhu also lost the quarter-final clash 21-19 against Japan's Akane Yamaguchi.&nbsp;&nbsp;With inputs from agencies

Satwiksairaj Rankireddy and Chirag Shetty suffer straight-games defeat to Indonesia’s Leo Rolly Carnando and Daniel Marthin, marking their first-ever loss to the duo.

India’s leading men’s doubles duo, Satwiksairaj Rankireddy and Chirag Shetty, settled for the runner-up finish at the Thailand Open 2026 after suffering a straight-games loss to Indonesia’s Leo Rolly Carnando and Daniel Marthin in the men’s doubles final on Sunday (May 17) at Nimibutr Stadium. The Indonesian pair dominated the opening game, taking advantage of a slow start from the Indians to win it 21-12. Satwik and Chirag responded strongly in the second game, pushing the contest to a tense finish. Despite saving five consecutive championship points, the Indian pair narrowly lost 25-23 in a final that lasted 53 minutes, as per a release from BAI Media. The silver medal was India’s lone podium finish at the tournament, as Lakshya Sen and PV Sindhu were eliminated in the quarter-finals of their respective events. Also Read - IPL 2026: Can KKR qualify for the playoffs after 29-run win over Gujarat Titans? Earlier on Saturday, the two-time former champions Satwiksairaj Rankireddy and Chirag Shetty reached the final of the Thailand Open once again after missing last year's edition, defeating Malaysia's Goh Sze Fei and Nur Izzuddin 19-21, 22-20, 21-16. Also Read - Vinesh Phogat criticises Haryana government after 21-year-old dies in swimming pool incident In the Round of 16 clash, the Indian pair defeated their Malaysian opponents, Goonting Bryan Jeremy and Haikal Muhammad, 21-12, 21-19. In the men's singles, Sen, the runner-up at the All England Open, was eliminated by Thailand's Kunlavut Vitidsarn in the quarter-final match, which shattered Indian hopes in the singles event. In women's singles, PV Sindhu also lost the quarter-final clash 21-19 against Japan's Akane Yamaguchi. With inputs from agencies

Satwiksairaj Rankireddy and Chirag Shetty suffer straight-games defeat to Indonesia’s Leo Rolly Carnando and Daniel Marthin, marking their first-ever loss to the duo.

Thailand Open 2026: Satwik-Chirag settle for silver after final loss

The death of 21-year-old athlete Gaurav Jain at Jind’s Eklavya Stadium has once again raised serious concerns about the condition and safety of sports infrastructure in Haryana. What began as a 25-day swimming training course ended in tragedy on May 14, when the young swimmer was found dead in the stadium pool. The incident occurred at the swimming facility inside Eklavya Stadium on Safidon Road in Jind district. Following allegations of negligence by the victim’s family, Civil Lines police registered an FIR against the pool operator, coach and members of the management team.&nbsp;A resident of Gandhi Gali in Jind, Gaurav Jain, had reportedly been attending evening swimming sessions at the stadium for nearly a month. According to his father, Sanjay Jain, the family had paid INR 3,500 for the course, which was conducted daily from 7 pm to 8 pm.&nbsp;When Gaurav failed to return home by around 8.30 pm on Thursday, his family began searching for him and eventually reached the stadium. Sanjay Jain alleged that they were initially prevented from entering the pool area and after forcing their way inside, they discovered Gaurav’s body floating in the water.&nbsp;“When we forcibly entered the premises, we saw Gaurav’s body floating in the pool,” Sanjay claimed.&nbsp;The grieving father accused the staff and coach of refusing to help after the body was found. He further said that he and another family member had to remove Gaurav from the pool themselves and transport him to the hospital on a motorcycle, where doctors declared him dead.&nbsp;Also Read - <a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/ipl-2026-can-kkr-qualify-for-the-playoffs-after-29-run-win-over-gujarat-titans-1779010930140">IPL 2026: Can KKR qualify for the playoffs after 29-run win over Gujarat Titans?</a>&nbsp;The family also alleged that electric current may have been released into the pool during maintenance work and according to Sanjay Jain, electricity had been passed through the water while his son was inside the pool, which he believes caused the fatal incident.&nbsp;The tragedy sparked anger among local residents and family members, who later met Haryana Deputy Speaker Dr Krishna Midha, Deputy Commissioner Mohammad Imran Raza and Superintendent of Police Kuldeep Singh, demanding swift action and arrests.&nbsp;Civil Lines SHO Pooja confirmed that police had registered a case based on the complaint submitted by Gaurav’s father. Authorities said the body had been sent for postmortem examination and that investigations were ongoing.<h2>Vinesh Phogat criticises Haryana government</h2>The incident has also triggered political and public criticism. Wrestler Vinesh Phogat strongly criticised the Haryana government and sports authorities, accusing them of repeatedly neglecting athlete safety and failing to properly maintain sports facilities.&nbsp;In a detailed post on X, Phogat described Gaurav’s death as not an ordinary accident and questioned the state’s claims regarding the quality of sports infrastructure in Jind.&nbsp;“When I had raised the demand in the Assembly to build a swimming pool in Ramrai village of Julana constituency, Sports Minister Gaurav Gautam ji had responded that an ‘Olympic-level swimming pool’ already exists in Jind,” Phogat wrote.&nbsp;“Today, all of Haryana is witnessing the condition of that so-called Olympic-level swimming pool. Fees are charged from athletes, but safety arrangements appear to be non-existent,” she added.&nbsp;The Olympian further questioned who would take responsibility for Gaurav’s death, questioning whether the sports department would once again attempt to avoid accountability.&nbsp;“It is easy to make speeches and advertisements in the name of sports. Providing a safe environment for athletes is the real responsibility of the government,” Phogat said.&nbsp;“If stadiums and sports facilities themselves begin taking athletes’ lives, then such a sports model should be a matter of shame.”

A 21-year-old drowned in a swimming pool at Eklavya Stadium on Thursday (May 14). Following the incident, Vinesh Phogat criticised the government, alleging that repeated athlete deaths due to systemic failures.

The death of 21-year-old athlete Gaurav Jain at Jind’s Eklavya Stadium has once again raised serious concerns about the condition and safety of sports infrastructure in Haryana. What began as a 25-day swimming training course ended in tragedy on May 14, when the young swimmer was found dead in the stadium pool. The incident occurred at the swimming facility inside Eklavya Stadium on Safidon Road in Jind district. Following allegations of negligence by the victim’s family, Civil Lines police registered an FIR against the pool operator, coach and members of the management team. A resident of Gandhi Gali in Jind, Gaurav Jain, had reportedly been attending evening swimming sessions at the stadium for nearly a month. According to his father, Sanjay Jain, the family had paid INR 3,500 for the course, which was conducted daily from 7 pm to 8 pm. When Gaurav failed to return home by around 8.30 pm on Thursday, his family began searching for him and eventually reached the stadium. Sanjay Jain alleged that they were initially prevented from entering the pool area and after forcing their way inside, they discovered Gaurav’s body floating in the water. “When we forcibly entered the premises, we saw Gaurav’s body floating in the pool,” Sanjay claimed. The grieving father accused the staff and coach of refusing to help after the body was found. He further said that he and another family member had to remove Gaurav from the pool themselves and transport him to the hospital on a motorcycle, where doctors declared him dead. Also Read - IPL 2026: Can KKR qualify for the playoffs after 29-run win over Gujarat Titans? The family also alleged that electric current may have been released into the pool during maintenance work and according to Sanjay Jain, electricity had been passed through the water while his son was inside the pool, which he believes caused the fatal incident. The tragedy sparked anger among local residents and family members, who later met Haryana Deputy Speaker Dr Krishna Midha, Deputy Commissioner Mohammad Imran Raza and Superintendent of Police Kuldeep Singh, demanding swift action and arrests. Civil Lines SHO Pooja confirmed that police had registered a case based on the complaint submitted by Gaurav’s father. Authorities said the body had been sent for postmortem examination and that investigations were ongoing. Vinesh Phogat criticises Haryana government The incident has also triggered political and public criticism. Wrestler Vinesh Phogat strongly criticised the Haryana government and sports authorities, accusing them of repeatedly neglecting athlete safety and failing to properly maintain sports facilities. In a detailed post on X, Phogat described Gaurav’s death as not an ordinary accident and questioned the state’s claims regarding the quality of sports infrastructure in Jind. “When I had raised the demand in the Assembly to build a swimming pool in Ramrai village of Julana constituency, Sports Minister Gaurav Gautam ji had responded that an ‘Olympic-level swimming pool’ already exists in Jind,” Phogat wrote. “Today, all of Haryana is witnessing the condition of that so-called Olympic-level swimming pool. Fees are charged from athletes, but safety arrangements appear to be non-existent,” she added. The Olympian further questioned who would take responsibility for Gaurav’s death, questioning whether the sports department would once again attempt to avoid accountability. “It is easy to make speeches and advertisements in the name of sports. Providing a safe environment for athletes is the real responsibility of the government,” Phogat said. “If stadiums and sports facilities themselves begin taking athletes’ lives, then such a sports model should be a matter of shame.”

A 21-year-old drowned in a swimming pool at Eklavya Stadium on Thursday (May 14). Following the incident, Vinesh Phogat criticised the government, alleging that repeated athlete deaths due to systemic failures.

Vinesh Phogat criticises Haryana government after 21-year-old dies in swimming pool incident

Kolkata Knight Riders kept their playoff hopes alive with a 29-run victory over Gujarat Titans in their 12th league match of the ongoing Indian Premier League 2026 at Eden Gardens on Saturday (May 16). The crucial home win lifted KKR’s chances of making the top four, although they remain seventh on the points table with 11 points from 12 matches.&nbsp;Led by Ajinkya Rahane, KKR still have a slim path to the playoffs and to secure qualification, they must win both of their remaining league games by big margins while also hoping that no more than three teams end the league stage with 15 or more points. However, even a single defeat in their last two matches would officially end their playoff campaign.&nbsp;KKR will next take on five-time champions Mumbai Indians on Wednesday (May 20) at Eden Gardens. The two sides have already met once this season, when Mumbai chased down 220 at Wankhede Stadium to hand Kolkata a heavy six-wicket defeat on Mar 29.&nbsp;Also Read - <a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/r-ashwin-defends-virat-kohli-blunt-prove-my-worth-remarks-amid-2027-world-cup-talk-rcb-podcast-mayanti-langer-1779003923094">R Ashwin defends Virat Kohli’s blunt ‘prove my worth’ remarks amid 2027 World Cup talk</a>&nbsp;Their final league fixture is scheduled against Delhi Capitals on Sunday (May 24) again at Eden Gardens. With Delhi also fighting for a playoff berth, the encounter could effectively turn into a knockout clash.&nbsp;&nbsp;Also Read - <a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/ipl-2026-punjab-kings-management-admits-arshdeep-singh-battled-physical-issues-all-season-points-table-pbks-vs-rcb-1779000816710">IPL 2026: PBKS management admits Arshdeep battled physical issues all season</a><h3>How can GT confirm their playoff spot?</h3>Meanwhile, Gujarat Titans remain in a much stronger position despite the loss. GT currently sit second on the IPL 2026 standings with 16 points from 13 matches and are assured of finishing above KKR, however, their playoff qualification is still not mathematically confirmed.&nbsp;The Titans can seal a playoff spot with a win over Chennai Super Kings in their final league game on Thursday (May 21) in Ahmedabad. If they fail to win, their qualification chances will depend on results of Sunrisers Hyderabad, Punjab Kings and Rajasthan Royals.

KKR will secure a top-four finish and qualify for the IPL 2026 playoffs if they win both of their remaining matches, provided no more than three teams end the league stage with 15 or more points.

Kolkata Knight Riders kept their playoff hopes alive with a 29-run victory over Gujarat Titans in their 12th league match of the ongoing Indian Premier League 2026 at Eden Gardens on Saturday (May 16). The crucial home win lifted KKR’s chances of making the top four, although they remain seventh on the points table with 11 points from 12 matches. Led by Ajinkya Rahane, KKR still have a slim path to the playoffs and to secure qualification, they must win both of their remaining league games by big margins while also hoping that no more than three teams end the league stage with 15 or more points. However, even a single defeat in their last two matches would officially end their playoff campaign. KKR will next take on five-time champions Mumbai Indians on Wednesday (May 20) at Eden Gardens. The two sides have already met once this season, when Mumbai chased down 220 at Wankhede Stadium to hand Kolkata a heavy six-wicket defeat on Mar 29. Also Read - R Ashwin defends Virat Kohli’s blunt ‘prove my worth’ remarks amid 2027 World Cup talk Their final league fixture is scheduled against Delhi Capitals on Sunday (May 24) again at Eden Gardens. With Delhi also fighting for a playoff berth, the encounter could effectively turn into a knockout clash. Also Read - IPL 2026: PBKS management admits Arshdeep battled physical issues all season How can GT confirm their playoff spot? Meanwhile, Gujarat Titans remain in a much stronger position despite the loss. GT currently sit second on the IPL 2026 standings with 16 points from 13 matches and are assured of finishing above KKR, however, their playoff qualification is still not mathematically confirmed. The Titans can seal a playoff spot with a win over Chennai Super Kings in their final league game on Thursday (May 21) in Ahmedabad. If they fail to win, their qualification chances will depend on results of Sunrisers Hyderabad, Punjab Kings and Rajasthan Royals.

KKR will secure a top-four finish and qualify for the IPL 2026 playoffs if they win both of their remaining matches, provided no more than three teams end the league stage with 15 or more points.

IPL 2026: Can KKR qualify for the playoffs after 29-run win over Gujarat Titans?

London club Chelsea has appointed Xabi Alonso as the new manager on Sunday (May 17) on a four-year deal, with the Spaniard becoming the latest tactician tasked to overturn The Blues’ fortune. Chelsea lost the FA Cup Final to Manchester City on Saturday (May 16), and currently sit ninth in the Premier League standings with two games to go. Although they are out of Europe for the next season, Alonso’s appointment could help them chase the lost pride, with all domestic titles on the line next season.

<blockquote class="twitter-tweet">🚨 OFFICIAL: Xabi Alonso, unveiled and confirmed as new a Chelsea manager. 🔵👋🏼 <a href="https://t.co/hQwFYvoO03">pic.twitter.com/hQwFYvoO03</a>&mdash; Fabrizio Romano (@FabrizioRomano) <a href="https://twitter.com/FabrizioRomano/status/2055923868628292023?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">May 17, 2026</a></blockquote> <script async src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script>

Former Liverpool and Real Madrid midfielder Alonso rose to prominence as one of Europe’s brightest managers following guiding Bayer Leverkusen to an unbeaten German league and cup double in the 2023/24 season. However, his run as Madrid’s manager lasted only seven months before departing the La Liga giants last January.&nbsp; &nbsp;"Chelsea Football Club is delighted to announce the appointment of Xabi Alonso as manager of the men’s team," Chelsea said in a statement. "The Spaniard will begin his role on July 1, 2026, having agreed a four-year contract at Stamford Bridge." &nbsp;Alonso faces a huge task to get Chelsea back in the running for major honours.&nbsp;Also read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/cristiano-ronaldo-awaits-first-saudi-silverware-as-gamba-stun-al-nassr-in-afc-final-1778988668259">Cristiano Ronaldo awaits first Saudi silverware as Gamba stun Al Nassr in AFC Final</a> &nbsp;Chelsea did win the FIFA Club World Cup and the UEFA Conference League last year, but has little else to show for well over one billion pounds ($1.35 billion) of spending on players since a US consortium BlueCo took over in 2022 following Roman Abramovich's trophy-laden ownership of the club. &nbsp;Defeat at Wembley on Saturday means they have now gone eight seasons without a domestic trophy. &nbsp;Fans have continuously protested against BlueCo, which has embarked on a scattergun approach to hoovering up young talent from across the globe. &nbsp;That policy has secured some notable successes, such as England international Cole Palmer. But a lack of experience in both the playing squad and, often, in the coaching staff, has been blamed for a lack of consistency. &nbsp;Alonso becomes the sixth permanent manager to take charge at Stamford Bridge in the past four years after Thomas Tuchel, Graham Potter, Mauricio Pochettino, Enzo Maresca and Liam Rosenior. The 44-year-old has a point to prove after a turbulent short spell in Madrid.&nbsp;(With inputs from AFP)

Official: Chelsea have confirmed the blockbuster appointment of Xabi Alonso as their new manager on a four-year contract starting July 1, 2026. 

London club Chelsea has appointed Xabi Alonso as the new manager on Sunday (May 17) on a four-year deal, with the Spaniard becoming the latest tactician tasked to overturn The Blues’ fortune. Chelsea lost the FA Cup Final to Manchester City on Saturday (May 16), and currently sit ninth in the Premier League standings with two games to go. Although they are out of Europe for the next season, Alonso’s appointment could help them chase the lost pride, with all domestic titles on the line next season.

Official: Chelsea have confirmed the blockbuster appointment of Xabi Alonso as their new manager on a four-year contract starting July 1, 2026.&nbsp;

HERE WE GO! Chelsea appoint Xabi Alonso as new manager on a four-year deal

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RJ Mahvash breaks silence on dating, fallout rumours with Yuzvendra Chahal

IPL 2026: Will MS Dhoni play in CSK vs SRH at Chepauk? Here’s what we know

Preakness Stakes 2026 | WATCH - Napoleon Solo wins second jewel of Triple Crown

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PGA Championship | Aaron Rai becomes first Englishman to win title in 107 years

Jannik Sinner wins Italian Open title, completes Golden Masters feat

IPL 2026: DC strengthen playoff hopes with a five-wicket win over RR

Vaibhav Sooryavanshi makes history with most sixes by an Indian in an IPL season

Move IPL 2026 behind closed doors to conserve fuel, CTI urges Sports Ministry

IPL 2026: RCB first to seal playoff spot after dominant win over PBKS

IPL 2026: Virat Kohli scripts history as first batter to reach THIS milestone

Thailand Open 2026: Satwik-Chirag settle for silver after final loss

Vinesh Phogat criticises Haryana govt after 21-year-old dies in swimming pool

IPL 2026: Can KKR qualify for the playoffs after 29-run win over Gujarat Titans?

HERE WE GO! Chelsea appoint Xabi Alonso as new manager on a four-year deal