From Rajat Patidar to Chris Gayle here is a look at five batters to score fastest IPL fifty for RCB. The list also features the likes of Romario Shepherd, Faf du Plessis and Robin Uthappa. 

From Rajat Patidar to Chris Gayle, 5 batters to score fastest IPL fifty for RCB

Defending champions Royal Challengers Bengaluru (RCB) were back to winning ways on Sunday (April 12) as they beat the Mumbai Indians in the Indian Premier League (IPL 2026). Playing at the iconic Wankhede Stadium, RCB scored 200+ for the fourth consecutive match and won by 18 runs and registered their third win of the season. On the other hand, the Mumbai Indians have now lost three consecutive matches, having won their opening match of the IPL 2026 season.<h2>RCB back to winning ways</h2>Phil Salt clobbered 78 off 36 balls, with Virat Kohli playing the anchor role in his 50, as defending champions Bengaluru put on 120 for the first wicket and posted 240/4 at Mumbai's Wankhede Stadium. Skipper Rajat Patidar's 53 off 20 balls and a late blitz by Tim David, who hit an unbeaten 34, lifted Bengaluru to an imposing total.&nbsp;ALSO READ | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/photos/from-rohit-sharma-to-sanju-samson-5-highest-individual-score-in-a-lost-chase-in-ipl-yusuf-pathan-kl-rahul-shaun-marsh-ipl-2026-1774084136030">From Rohit Sharma to Sanju Samson, 5 highest individual scores in a lost chase in IPL</a>&nbsp;The presence of Kohli and Mumbai veteran Rohit Sharma -- two stalwarts who now feature only in ODIs for India and the IPL added extra star power to the contest. Bengaluru restricted their opponents to 222/5 as five-time winners Mumbai suffered their third straight defeat in the tournament. England opener Salt was the aggressor at the start for Bengaluru, smacking six fours and six sixes. He was later named player of the match.&nbsp;Patidar then tore into the Mumbai attack with a string of sixes and, after Kohli's dismissal, raced to his fifty from just 17 balls. David then rounded off the innings with a late flourish.&nbsp;ALSO READ | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/photos/from-cameron-green-to-liam-livingstone-5-most-expensive-players-in-ipl-2026-auctions-matheesha-pathirana-kartik-sharma-prashant-veer-1774031148132">From Cameron Green to Liam Livingstone, 5 most expensive players in IPL 2026 auctions</a><h2>What happened in Mumbai innings?</h2>Mumbai started briskly courtesy of Ryan Rickelton's 37, but soon lost steam after Rohit retired hurt due to a hamstring problem. Kohli did not take to the field for Bengaluru after his innings due to an ankle injury. Leg-spinner Suyash Sharma struck twice in one over to dismiss Rickelton and Tilak Varma. Suryakumar Yadav (33) and skipper Hardik Pandya (40) attempted to drag the chase back on track in a brisk partnership of 47, but once both fell, Mumbai slipped behind the required rate.&nbsp;Impact substitute Sherfane Rutherford made a valiant, unbeaten 71, blasting four sixes in the last over, but the knock came too late for Mumbai.

Playing at the iconic Wankhede Stadium, RCB scored 200+ for the fourth consecutive match and won by 18 runs and registered their third win of the season. 

Defending champions Royal Challengers Bengaluru (RCB) were back to winning ways on Sunday (April 12) as they beat the Mumbai Indians in the Indian Premier League (IPL 2026). Playing at the iconic Wankhede Stadium, RCB scored 200+ for the fourth consecutive match and won by 18 runs and registered their third win of the season. On the other hand, the Mumbai Indians have now lost three consecutive matches, having won their opening match of the IPL 2026 season. RCB back to winning ways Phil Salt clobbered 78 off 36 balls, with Virat Kohli playing the anchor role in his 50, as defending champions Bengaluru put on 120 for the first wicket and posted 240/4 at Mumbai's Wankhede Stadium. Skipper Rajat Patidar's 53 off 20 balls and a late blitz by Tim David, who hit an unbeaten 34, lifted Bengaluru to an imposing total. ALSO READ | From Rohit Sharma to Sanju Samson, 5 highest individual scores in a lost chase in IPL The presence of Kohli and Mumbai veteran Rohit Sharma -- two stalwarts who now feature only in ODIs for India and the IPL added extra star power to the contest. Bengaluru restricted their opponents to 222/5 as five-time winners Mumbai suffered their third straight defeat in the tournament. England opener Salt was the aggressor at the start for Bengaluru, smacking six fours and six sixes. He was later named player of the match. Patidar then tore into the Mumbai attack with a string of sixes and, after Kohli's dismissal, raced to his fifty from just 17 balls. David then rounded off the innings with a late flourish. ALSO READ | From Cameron Green to Liam Livingstone, 5 most expensive players in IPL 2026 auctions What happened in Mumbai innings? Mumbai started briskly courtesy of Ryan Rickelton's 37, but soon lost steam after Rohit retired hurt due to a hamstring problem. Kohli did not take to the field for Bengaluru after his innings due to an ankle injury. Leg-spinner Suyash Sharma struck twice in one over to dismiss Rickelton and Tilak Varma. Suryakumar Yadav (33) and skipper Hardik Pandya (40) attempted to drag the chase back on track in a brisk partnership of 47, but once both fell, Mumbai slipped behind the required rate. Impact substitute Sherfane Rutherford made a valiant, unbeaten 71, blasting four sixes in the last over, but the knock came too late for Mumbai.

Playing at the iconic Wankhede Stadium, RCB scored 200+ for the fourth consecutive match and won by 18 runs and registered their third win of the season.&nbsp;

IPL 2026: RCB back to winning ways after another batting masterclass, MI lose three in a row

Vaibhav Sooryavanshi produced another batting masterclass in the Indian Premier League (IPL 2026) on Friday (April 10) as Rajasthan Royals beat Royal Challengers Bengaluru (RCB) by six wickets. Playing at the Barsapara Cricket Stadium in Guwahati, Sooryavanshi’s 78 off 26 and Dhruv Jurel’s unbeaten 81 saw RR end RCB’s unbeaten run. On the other hand, RR’s win saw them sit comfortably at the top of the standings with four wins in four matches.<h2>Sooryavanshi wreaks havoc</h2>Sooryavanshi raced to his half-century from just 15 deliveries, hammering eight fours and seven towering sixes during his 26-ball 78. He also hit a 15-ball fifty in the Royals' opener against Chennai Super Kings.&nbsp;The teen prodigy found an able ally in Dhruv Jurel, helping Rajasthan make light work of Bengaluru's competitive 201/8. That score represented a huge recovery orchestrated by skipper Rajat Patidar after the defending champions slumped to 125/7 in 14 overs. After dispatching the experienced Bhuvneshwar Kumar for two fours in the first over of the chase, the left-handed Sooryavanshi laid into Josh Hazlewood, the Australian fast bowler making his first appearance of the season.&nbsp;ALSO READ | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/photos/from-rohit-sharma-to-sanju-samson-5-highest-individual-score-in-a-lost-chase-in-ipl-yusuf-pathan-kl-rahul-shaun-marsh-ipl-2026-1774084136030">From Rohit Sharma to Sanju Samson, 5 highest individual scores in a lost chase in IPL</a>&nbsp;Sooryavanshi took three fours and a six off Hazlewood's second over, making sure Rajasthan did not suffer from the loss of Yashasvi Jaiswal, his opening partner, with 21 on the board. Jurel, who finished unbeaten on 81, matched Sooryavanshi stroke for stroke during a second-wicket stand of 108, which came off just 37 deliveries.&nbsp;By the time he was caught at long-on off left-arm spinner Krunal Pandya, Sooryavanshi had grabbed the Orange Cap as the season's leading run-scorer, ahead of Jaiswal.Pandya dismissed Shimron Hetmyer on the first ball and Hazlewood had Rajasthan skipper Riyan Parag caught at long-on, but Jurel and seasoned left-hander Ravindra Jadeja weathered the loss of three wickets for five runs in 10 deliveries with a measured fifth-wicket stand of 68.&nbsp;ALSO READ | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/photos/from-cameron-green-to-liam-livingstone-5-most-expensive-players-in-ipl-2026-auctions-matheesha-pathirana-kartik-sharma-prashant-veer-1774031148132">From Cameron Green to Liam Livingstone, 5 most expensive players in IPL 2026 auctions</a><h2>What happened in RCB innings?</h2>Earlier, when play began 70 minutes late due to persistent showers, Bengaluru were rocked by the first-ball dismissal of Phil Salt, caught behind off a snorter from England teammate Jofra Archer. Virat Kohli played several handsome strokes while making 32 off 16 until he was bowled by a googly from Ravi Bishnoi.&nbsp;Bishnoi, Archer and Brijesh Sharma took two wickets apiece to peg Bengaluru back when Patidar stepped up. The skipper was 27 off 26 deliveries when Romario Shepherd was the seventh batter dismissed. In the company of impact substitute Venkatesh Iyer, Patidar put on an exhibition of stroke-making, dominating the eighth-wicket stand of 41 before falling for 63 off 40 deliveries.

Playing at the Barsapara Cricket Stadium in Guwahati, Vaibhav Sooryavanshi’s 78 off 26 and Dhruv Jurel’s unbeaten 81 saw Rajasthan Royals end Royal Challengers Bengaluru's (RCB) unbeaten run in the Indian Premier League (IPL 2026).  

Vaibhav Sooryavanshi produced another batting masterclass in the Indian Premier League (IPL 2026) on Friday (April 10) as Rajasthan Royals beat Royal Challengers Bengaluru (RCB) by six wickets. Playing at the Barsapara Cricket Stadium in Guwahati, Sooryavanshi’s 78 off 26 and Dhruv Jurel’s unbeaten 81 saw RR end RCB’s unbeaten run. On the other hand, RR’s win saw them sit comfortably at the top of the standings with four wins in four matches. Sooryavanshi wreaks havoc Sooryavanshi raced to his half-century from just 15 deliveries, hammering eight fours and seven towering sixes during his 26-ball 78. He also hit a 15-ball fifty in the Royals' opener against Chennai Super Kings. The teen prodigy found an able ally in Dhruv Jurel, helping Rajasthan make light work of Bengaluru's competitive 201/8. That score represented a huge recovery orchestrated by skipper Rajat Patidar after the defending champions slumped to 125/7 in 14 overs. After dispatching the experienced Bhuvneshwar Kumar for two fours in the first over of the chase, the left-handed Sooryavanshi laid into Josh Hazlewood, the Australian fast bowler making his first appearance of the season. ALSO READ | From Rohit Sharma to Sanju Samson, 5 highest individual scores in a lost chase in IPL Sooryavanshi took three fours and a six off Hazlewood's second over, making sure Rajasthan did not suffer from the loss of Yashasvi Jaiswal, his opening partner, with 21 on the board. Jurel, who finished unbeaten on 81, matched Sooryavanshi stroke for stroke during a second-wicket stand of 108, which came off just 37 deliveries. By the time he was caught at long-on off left-arm spinner Krunal Pandya, Sooryavanshi had grabbed the Orange Cap as the season's leading run-scorer, ahead of Jaiswal. Pandya dismissed Shimron Hetmyer on the first ball and Hazlewood had Rajasthan skipper Riyan Parag caught at long-on, but Jurel and seasoned left-hander Ravindra Jadeja weathered the loss of three wickets for five runs in 10 deliveries with a measured fifth-wicket stand of 68. ALSO READ | From Cameron Green to Liam Livingstone, 5 most expensive players in IPL 2026 auctions What happened in RCB innings? Earlier, when play began 70 minutes late due to persistent showers, Bengaluru were rocked by the first-ball dismissal of Phil Salt, caught behind off a snorter from England teammate Jofra Archer. Virat Kohli played several handsome strokes while making 32 off 16 until he was bowled by a googly from Ravi Bishnoi. Bishnoi, Archer and Brijesh Sharma took two wickets apiece to peg Bengaluru back when Patidar stepped up. The skipper was 27 off 26 deliveries when Romario Shepherd was the seventh batter dismissed. In the company of impact substitute Venkatesh Iyer, Patidar put on an exhibition of stroke-making, dominating the eighth-wicket stand of 41 before falling for 63 off 40 deliveries.

Playing at the Barsapara Cricket Stadium in Guwahati, Vaibhav Sooryavanshi’s 78 off 26 and Dhruv Jurel’s unbeaten 81 saw Rajasthan Royals end Royal Challengers Bengaluru's (RCB) unbeaten run in the Indian Premier League (IPL 2026). &nbsp;

IPL 2026: Sooryavanshi blitzkrieg derails RCB's unbeaten run as RR continue to cement top spot

Here are five occasions with highest innings totals for RCB in history as Rajat Patidar’s men continue to impress in IPL 2026. They scored 250/3 vs CSK in IPL 2026 match and beat the five-time champions on Sunday (April 5). 

Here are five occasions with highest innings totals for RCB in IPL history

From CSK to RCB here is a look at five teams with most 200-plus totals in the Indian Premier League. The list also features the likes of PBKS, MI and KKR.

From CSK to RCB, 5 teams with most 200-plus totals in IPL history

Defending champions Royal Challengers Bengaluru (RCB) maintained their perfect start to the Indian Premier League (IPL 2026) season as they beat Chennai Super Kings (CSK) by 43 runs on Sunday (April 5). Playing at the M.Chinnaswamy Stadium in Bengaluru, RCB had Tim David (unbeaten 70) and Devdutt Padikkal (50) to thank as the duo helped the hosts beat CSK in the all-South Indian affair. The win also saw RCB take top spot on net run rate, with Rajasthan Royals, Punjab Kings and Delhi Capitals also having a perfect run.<h2>RCB thrash CSK</h2>David's 25-ball blitz steered defending champions Bengaluru to 250-3, the highest total in this season's tournament, after the hosts were put in to bat first at M. Chinnaswamy Stadium. Bengaluru bowled Chennai out for 207 in 19.4 overs to condemn the five-time IPL winners to a third defeat in as many matches. Seam bowler Bhuvneshwar Kumar took three wickets for Bengaluru. Jacob Duffy, Abhinandan Singh and Krunal Pandya claimed two each.&nbsp;ALSO READ | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/photos/from-rohit-sharma-to-sanju-samson-5-highest-individual-score-in-a-lost-chase-in-ipl-yusuf-pathan-kl-rahul-shaun-marsh-ipl-2026-1774084136030">From Rohit Sharma to Sanju Samson, 5 highest individual scores in a lost chase in IPL</a>&nbsp;Bengaluru, who won their first IPL title in 18 attempts last year, started strong after Virat Kohli hit an 18-ball 28, and the rest of the batting kept up the pace and then accelerated. Kohli's fellow opener Phil Salt made 46 and Devdutt Padikkal reached 50 before skipper Rajat Patidar, who finished unbeaten on 48, and David tore into the Chennai attack.&nbsp;Australia's David launched a brutal assault at the back end of the Bengaluru innings and whacked England's Jamie Overton for four sixes and a four in a 30-run 19th over. David and Patidar put on 99 runs in 36 balls as Bengaluru plundered 97 runs from the final five overs.&nbsp;ALSO READ | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/photos/from-cameron-green-to-liam-livingstone-5-most-expensive-players-in-ipl-2026-auctions-matheesha-pathirana-kartik-sharma-prashant-veer-1774031148132">From Cameron Green to Liam Livingstone, 5 most expensive players in IPL 2026 auctions</a>&nbsp;Chennai lost three early wickets, including skipper Ruturaj Gaikwad for seven, to immediately fall behind in the chase. Sarfaraz Khan's 25-ball 50 and good knocks from Prashant Veer (43) and Overton (37) added some spark to an otherwise disappointing Chennai show. Chennai veteran M.S. Dhoni is recovering from a calf strain and likely to be out for the first two weeks of a competition scheduled to end on May 31.

Playing at the M.Chinnaswamy Stadium in Bengaluru, RCB had Tim David (unbeaten 70) and Devdutt Padikkal (50) to thank as the duo helped the hosts beat CSK in the all-South Indian affair. 

Defending champions Royal Challengers Bengaluru (RCB) maintained their perfect start to the Indian Premier League (IPL 2026) season as they beat Chennai Super Kings (CSK) by 43 runs on Sunday (April 5). Playing at the M.Chinnaswamy Stadium in Bengaluru, RCB had Tim David (unbeaten 70) and Devdutt Padikkal (50) to thank as the duo helped the hosts beat CSK in the all-South Indian affair. The win also saw RCB take top spot on net run rate, with Rajasthan Royals, Punjab Kings and Delhi Capitals also having a perfect run. RCB thrash CSK David's 25-ball blitz steered defending champions Bengaluru to 250-3, the highest total in this season's tournament, after the hosts were put in to bat first at M. Chinnaswamy Stadium. Bengaluru bowled Chennai out for 207 in 19.4 overs to condemn the five-time IPL winners to a third defeat in as many matches. Seam bowler Bhuvneshwar Kumar took three wickets for Bengaluru. Jacob Duffy, Abhinandan Singh and Krunal Pandya claimed two each. ALSO READ | From Rohit Sharma to Sanju Samson, 5 highest individual scores in a lost chase in IPL Bengaluru, who won their first IPL title in 18 attempts last year, started strong after Virat Kohli hit an 18-ball 28, and the rest of the batting kept up the pace and then accelerated. Kohli's fellow opener Phil Salt made 46 and Devdutt Padikkal reached 50 before skipper Rajat Patidar, who finished unbeaten on 48, and David tore into the Chennai attack. Australia's David launched a brutal assault at the back end of the Bengaluru innings and whacked England's Jamie Overton for four sixes and a four in a 30-run 19th over. David and Patidar put on 99 runs in 36 balls as Bengaluru plundered 97 runs from the final five overs. ALSO READ | From Cameron Green to Liam Livingstone, 5 most expensive players in IPL 2026 auctions Chennai lost three early wickets, including skipper Ruturaj Gaikwad for seven, to immediately fall behind in the chase. Sarfaraz Khan's 25-ball 50 and good knocks from Prashant Veer (43) and Overton (37) added some spark to an otherwise disappointing Chennai show. Chennai veteran M.S. Dhoni is recovering from a calf strain and likely to be out for the first two weeks of a competition scheduled to end on May 31.

Playing at the M.Chinnaswamy Stadium in Bengaluru, RCB had Tim David (unbeaten 70) and Devdutt Padikkal (50) to thank as the duo helped the hosts beat CSK in the all-South Indian affair.&nbsp;

IPL 2026: David, Padikkal batting masterclass sees RCB thrash sorry CSK to maintain perfect start

From Chennai Super Kings to Delhi Capitals here is a list of five teams with most wins vs Mumbai Indians in Indian Premier League (IPL) history. The list contains the likes of Punjab Kings, Royal Challengers Benglauru and Rajasthan Royals.

From Chennai Super Kings to Delhi Capitals, 5 teams with most wins vs Mumbai Indians in IPL

&nbsp;Royal Challengers Bengaluru (RCB) made a brilliant start to their Indian Premier League (IPL 2026) season as they defeated Rajasthan Royals in the first match. Now with added confidence, RCB star Jitesh Sharma has backed his side to dominate and defend the IPL title they won in 2025. The star wicketkeeper-batter also spoke on missing out on the Indian squad during the T20 World Cup 2026, where the Men in Blue won the tournament.<h2>Jitesh clears intent for RCB</h2>“This is not a one-year thing. We are here to dominate. I want to prove that what happened last season was not a one-off. Winning the first trophy for RCB was a magical feeling. The greatest satisfaction was knowing that I had contributed to it. That is a moment I will always be proud of,” Jitesh said on the RCB podcast.&nbsp;Jitesh credited Dinesh Karthik for helping shape his growth over the past year. He added that Karthik also encouraged him to step away briefly and recover emotionally.&nbsp;ALSO READ | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/photos/from-cameron-green-to-liam-livingstone-5-most-expensive-players-in-ipl-2026-auctions-matheesha-pathirana-kartik-sharma-prashant-veer-1774031148132">From Cameron Green to Liam Livingstone, 5 most expensive players in IPL 2026 auctions</a>&nbsp;“A lot of the credit for my growth goes to DK 'anna'. He helped me understand my game better, use my strengths properly and improve mentally. DK asked me to take a break, put the bat away for a while and spend time with my family and friends. That helped me reset.”&nbsp;On missing out on the India selection, he said the larger ambition remains unchanged.“Playing for India is still the ultimate goal. I felt I did my part, so I have no regrets. Now it is about staying ready and finding the next opportunity.”&nbsp;ALSO READ | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/photos/from-rohit-sharma-to-sanju-samson-5-highest-individual-score-in-a-lost-chase-in-ipl-yusuf-pathan-kl-rahul-shaun-marsh-ipl-2026-1774084136030">From Rohit Sharma to Sanju Samson, 5 highest individual scores in a lost chase in IPL</a><h2>RCB take on CSK</h2>RCB are next in action on Sunday when they face five-time winners Chennai Super Kings (CSK) at the M.Chinnaswamy Stadium in Bengaluru. CSK lost their opening match against Rajasthan Royals, while RCB got the better of SunRisers Hyderabad (SRH) in their opening match. A win for RCB will see them establish a good start in command of a Playoff place.

Now with added confidence after CSK win, RCB star Jitesh Sharma has backed his side to dominate and defend the IPL title they won in 2025. The

Royal Challengers Bengaluru (RCB) made a brilliant start to their Indian Premier League (IPL 2026) season as they defeated Rajasthan Royals in the first match. Now with added confidence, RCB star Jitesh Sharma has backed his side to dominate and defend the IPL title they won in 2025. The star wicketkeeper-batter also spoke on missing out on the Indian squad during the T20 World Cup 2026, where the Men in Blue won the tournament. Jitesh clears intent for RCB “This is not a one-year thing. We are here to dominate. I want to prove that what happened last season was not a one-off. Winning the first trophy for RCB was a magical feeling. The greatest satisfaction was knowing that I had contributed to it. That is a moment I will always be proud of,” Jitesh said on the RCB podcast. Jitesh credited Dinesh Karthik for helping shape his growth over the past year. He added that Karthik also encouraged him to step away briefly and recover emotionally. ALSO READ | From Cameron Green to Liam Livingstone, 5 most expensive players in IPL 2026 auctions “A lot of the credit for my growth goes to DK 'anna'. He helped me understand my game better, use my strengths properly and improve mentally. DK asked me to take a break, put the bat away for a while and spend time with my family and friends. That helped me reset.” On missing out on the India selection, he said the larger ambition remains unchanged. “Playing for India is still the ultimate goal. I felt I did my part, so I have no regrets. Now it is about staying ready and finding the next opportunity.” ALSO READ | From Rohit Sharma to Sanju Samson, 5 highest individual scores in a lost chase in IPL RCB take on CSK RCB are next in action on Sunday when they face five-time winners Chennai Super Kings (CSK) at the M.Chinnaswamy Stadium in Bengaluru. CSK lost their opening match against Rajasthan Royals, while RCB got the better of SunRisers Hyderabad (SRH) in their opening match. A win for RCB will see them establish a good start in command of a Playoff place.

Now with added confidence after CSK win, RCB star Jitesh Sharma has backed his side to dominate and defend the IPL title they won in 2025. The

IPL 2026: RCB’s Jitesh Sharma makes bold claim after positive start, says 'we are here to...'

Defending Indian Premier League (IPL) champions Royal Challengers Bengaluru (RCB) made a winning start to the season as they beat SunRisers Hyderabad (SRH) by six wickets in the curtain-raiser contest. Playing at the M.Chinnaswamy Stadium in Bengaluru, Devdutt Padikkal and Virat Kohli were the star men as RCB successfully chased 202 runs in the opening match. Virat scored an unbeaten 69 while Padikkal smashed 61 off 26 to help RCB get off to a winning start.<h2>RCB make winning start</h2>RCB's chase began with a couple of boundaries in the first over off the bat of Phil Salt, but he fell early, in the very next over, for eight runs. However, Kohli looked in sublime touch from the first ball. He anchored the innings with a brilliant 69 off 38 deliveries, including five sixes. He became the first batter to score 6000 runs in the T20s. Kohli also became the first batter in IPL history to cross 4000 runs in chases.&nbsp;However, it was Devdutt Padikkal who stole the show in the middle overs. Padikkal played with a strike rate of 234.62, bludgeoning 61 runs off just 26 balls, including four sixes and seven fours. His assault on the SRH spinners took the game away from the visitors entirely. Brief cameos from Rajat Patidar (31 off 12) and Tim David (16) ensured there were no late hiccups as RCB cruised to 203/4 in just 15.4 overs.&nbsp;Earlier in the match, Sunrisers Hyderabad staged a strong recovery from an early collapse to post a competitive 201/9. After losing three quick wickets in the power play, a brilliant knock from Ishan Kishan and key contributions down the order powered Hyderabad past the 200-run mark. The defending champions were off to a fantastic start, with debutant and RCB speedster Jacob Duffy removing Hyderabad openers for a cheap score.&nbsp;ALSO READ | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/photos/from-cameron-green-to-liam-livingstone-5-most-expensive-players-in-ipl-2026-auctions-matheesha-pathirana-kartik-sharma-prashant-veer-1774031148132">From Cameron Green to Liam Livingstone, 5 most expensive players in IPL 2026 auctions</a>&nbsp;Sunrisers lost Abhishek Sharma during the first ball of the third over. The left-handed batter scored seven runs. On the last delivery, Duffy then removed Travis Head for just 11 runs as the visitors scored 23 runs. Sunrisers lost their wicket when debutant Duffy dismissed all-rounder Nitish Reddy for just one run during the second ball of the fifth over. After the end of the sixth over, Hyderbad scored 49/3.&nbsp;Stand-in skipper Ishan Kishan and wicketkeeper-batter Heinrich Klaasen stabilised the ship for Hyderabad as they reached 70/3 in eight overs. Hyderabad reached a decent position after 10 overs, as they scored 87/3.&nbsp;All-rounder Romario Shepherd broke the dangerous 97-run stand between Klaasen and Kishan after the wicketkeeper-batter departed for 31 runs during the first ball of the 14th over.In the very next over, leg-spinner Suyash Sharma took the wicket of Salil Arora, who made nine runs as Sunrisers reached 142/5. During the last ball of the 16th over, he took the much-needed wicket of Ishan Kishan, who departed after playing a fantastic knock of 80 runs off 38 deliveries, including eight fours and five sixes.&nbsp;ALSO READ | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/photos/from-rohit-sharma-to-sanju-samson-5-highest-individual-score-in-a-lost-chase-in-ipl-yusuf-pathan-kl-rahul-shaun-marsh-ipl-2026-1774084136030">From Rohit Sharma to Sanju Samson, 5 highest individual scores in a lost chase in IPL</a>&nbsp;Hyderabad lost two more wickets after Shepherd dismissed Harsh Dubey for just three runs and Bhuvneshwar Kumar scalped the wicket of Harshal Patel, who departed after scoring a two-ball duck. Hyderabad reached 175/8 after the end of the 18th over. During the 19th over, Aniket Verma hammered two sixes and a four before Romario took revenge and removed Verma. The right-handed batter played a blistering knock of 18-ball 43, including three fours and four maximums. Towards the end, Sunrisers crossed the 200-run mark as they finished at 201/9 in 20 overs.

Playing at the M.Chinnaswamy Stadium in Bengaluru, Devdutt Padikkal and Virat Kohli were the star men as RCB successfully chased 202 runs in the opening match. Virat scored an unbeaten 69 while Padikkal smashed 61 off 26 to help RCB get off to a winning start.

Defending Indian Premier League (IPL) champions Royal Challengers Bengaluru (RCB) made a winning start to the season as they beat SunRisers Hyderabad (SRH) by six wickets in the curtain-raiser contest. Playing at the M.Chinnaswamy Stadium in Bengaluru, Devdutt Padikkal and Virat Kohli were the star men as RCB successfully chased 202 runs in the opening match. Virat scored an unbeaten 69 while Padikkal smashed 61 off 26 to help RCB get off to a winning start. RCB make winning start RCB's chase began with a couple of boundaries in the first over off the bat of Phil Salt, but he fell early, in the very next over, for eight runs. However, Kohli looked in sublime touch from the first ball. He anchored the innings with a brilliant 69 off 38 deliveries, including five sixes. He became the first batter to score 6000 runs in the T20s. Kohli also became the first batter in IPL history to cross 4000 runs in chases. However, it was Devdutt Padikkal who stole the show in the middle overs. Padikkal played with a strike rate of 234.62, bludgeoning 61 runs off just 26 balls, including four sixes and seven fours. His assault on the SRH spinners took the game away from the visitors entirely. Brief cameos from Rajat Patidar (31 off 12) and Tim David (16) ensured there were no late hiccups as RCB cruised to 203/4 in just 15.4 overs. Earlier in the match, Sunrisers Hyderabad staged a strong recovery from an early collapse to post a competitive 201/9. After losing three quick wickets in the power play, a brilliant knock from Ishan Kishan and key contributions down the order powered Hyderabad past the 200-run mark. The defending champions were off to a fantastic start, with debutant and RCB speedster Jacob Duffy removing Hyderabad openers for a cheap score. ALSO READ | From Cameron Green to Liam Livingstone, 5 most expensive players in IPL 2026 auctions Sunrisers lost Abhishek Sharma during the first ball of the third over. The left-handed batter scored seven runs. On the last delivery, Duffy then removed Travis Head for just 11 runs as the visitors scored 23 runs. Sunrisers lost their wicket when debutant Duffy dismissed all-rounder Nitish Reddy for just one run during the second ball of the fifth over. After the end of the sixth over, Hyderbad scored 49/3. Stand-in skipper Ishan Kishan and wicketkeeper-batter Heinrich Klaasen stabilised the ship for Hyderabad as they reached 70/3 in eight overs. Hyderabad reached a decent position after 10 overs, as they scored 87/3. All-rounder Romario Shepherd broke the dangerous 97-run stand between Klaasen and Kishan after the wicketkeeper-batter departed for 31 runs during the first ball of the 14th over.In the very next over, leg-spinner Suyash Sharma took the wicket of Salil Arora, who made nine runs as Sunrisers reached 142/5. During the last ball of the 16th over, he took the much-needed wicket of Ishan Kishan, who departed after playing a fantastic knock of 80 runs off 38 deliveries, including eight fours and five sixes. ALSO READ | From Rohit Sharma to Sanju Samson, 5 highest individual scores in a lost chase in IPL Hyderabad lost two more wickets after Shepherd dismissed Harsh Dubey for just three runs and Bhuvneshwar Kumar scalped the wicket of Harshal Patel, who departed after scoring a two-ball duck. Hyderabad reached 175/8 after the end of the 18th over. During the 19th over, Aniket Verma hammered two sixes and a four before Romario took revenge and removed Verma. The right-handed batter played a blistering knock of 18-ball 43, including three fours and four maximums. Towards the end, Sunrisers crossed the 200-run mark as they finished at 201/9 in 20 overs.

Playing at the M.Chinnaswamy Stadium in Bengaluru, Devdutt Padikkal and Virat Kohli were the star men as RCB successfully chased 202 runs in the opening match. Virat scored an unbeaten 69 while Padikkal smashed 61 off 26 to help RCB get off to a winning start.

IPL 2026: RCB start on winning note as Devdutt Padikkal, Virat Kohli make lightwork of SRH in curtain-raiser

Royal Challengers Bengaluru head coach Andy Flower has indicated that Australian pacer Josh Hazlewood is close to returning to action in IPL 2026. The 35-year-old has been out of international cicket since Oct 2025, missing both the Ashes and the 2026 T20 World Cup due to injury. Cricket Australia had earlier confirmed that Hazlewood, along with Pat Cummins and Mitchell Starc, would miss the opening phase of the season, however, Hazlewood has linked up with the RCB squad on March 26 and has begun light training sessions with the team. &nbsp;&nbsp;Speaking at the press conference before the IPL 2026 opener, Flower said Hazlewood looks in good shape and his presence has lifted the dressing room atmosphere. However, he clarified that the pacer won’t be available for the first game against Sunrisers Hyderabad, the coaching staff plans to keep a close watch on his fitness as they prepare for his comeback in the tournament.&nbsp;&nbsp;Also Read - <a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/tiger-woods-arrested-on-dui-charge-following-florida-rollover-crash-1774668000648">Tiger Woods arrested on DUI charge following Florida rollover crash</a>&nbsp;“Hazlewood arrived yesterday and he’s looking fit. It’s great to have him back around the dressing room and involved in our meetings again. He won’t be ready for tomorrow because he’s just arrived, but we’ll monitor his fitness closely and we’re looking forward to him making his entrance into the IPL soon," said Flower.&nbsp;Hazlewood previously delivered a strong campaign for RCB, taking 22 wickets in 12 matches at an impressive average of 17.55 and an economy of 8.77, including a four-wicket haul.&nbsp;Meanwhile, RCB will also be without Yash Dayal this season due to personal reasons. The franchise has added Mangesh Yadav and Abhinandan Singh to their squad, while Rasikh Dar and Bhuvneshwar Kumar remain part of the pace attack.&nbsp;Also Read - <a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/-aims-to-help-dc-win-their-maiden-ipl-title-auqib-nabi-dar-on-ipl-2026-goals-1774624021612">‘Aim is to help DC win their maiden IPL title’: Auqib Nabi Dar on IPL 2026 goals</a>&nbsp;Flower further expressed confidence in the Indian seamers, highlighting their improvement and ability to step up when given the chance. He noted Rasikh’s progress over the past year and praised the potential shown by both Mangesh and Abhinandan.&nbsp;&nbsp;“We’re happy with the Indian seamers in the squad. Rasikh is a better bowler than he was last year, and he’s worked very hard on his game. We’re also pleased to have recruited Mangesh and we’ve been encouraged by Abhinandan’s progress recently. All three have qualities that put them in good shape if they get their opportunities in this tournament,” the coach added.&nbsp;&nbsp;The defending champions will begin their IPL 2026 campaign against Sunrisers Hyderabad on Mar 28 at M. Chinnaswamy Stadium in Bengaluru.

The defending champions, Royal Challengers Bengaluru, will begin their IPL 2026 campaign against Sunrisers Hyderabad on Mar 28 at M. Chinnaswamy Stadium in Bengaluru.

Royal Challengers Bengaluru head coach Andy Flower has indicated that Australian pacer Josh Hazlewood is close to returning to action in IPL 2026. The 35-year-old has been out of international cicket since Oct 2025, missing both the Ashes and the 2026 T20 World Cup due to injury. Cricket Australia had earlier confirmed that Hazlewood, along with Pat Cummins and Mitchell Starc, would miss the opening phase of the season, however, Hazlewood has linked up with the RCB squad on March 26 and has begun light training sessions with the team. Speaking at the press conference before the IPL 2026 opener, Flower said Hazlewood looks in good shape and his presence has lifted the dressing room atmosphere. However, he clarified that the pacer won’t be available for the first game against Sunrisers Hyderabad, the coaching staff plans to keep a close watch on his fitness as they prepare for his comeback in the tournament. Also Read - Tiger Woods arrested on DUI charge following Florida rollover crash “Hazlewood arrived yesterday and he’s looking fit. It’s great to have him back around the dressing room and involved in our meetings again. He won’t be ready for tomorrow because he’s just arrived, but we’ll monitor his fitness closely and we’re looking forward to him making his entrance into the IPL soon," said Flower. Hazlewood previously delivered a strong campaign for RCB, taking 22 wickets in 12 matches at an impressive average of 17.55 and an economy of 8.77, including a four-wicket haul. Meanwhile, RCB will also be without Yash Dayal this season due to personal reasons. The franchise has added Mangesh Yadav and Abhinandan Singh to their squad, while Rasikh Dar and Bhuvneshwar Kumar remain part of the pace attack. Also Read - ‘Aim is to help DC win their maiden IPL title’: Auqib Nabi Dar on IPL 2026 goals Flower further expressed confidence in the Indian seamers, highlighting their improvement and ability to step up when given the chance. He noted Rasikh’s progress over the past year and praised the potential shown by both Mangesh and Abhinandan. “We’re happy with the Indian seamers in the squad. Rasikh is a better bowler than he was last year, and he’s worked very hard on his game. We’re also pleased to have recruited Mangesh and we’ve been encouraged by Abhinandan’s progress recently. All three have qualities that put them in good shape if they get their opportunities in this tournament,” the coach added. The defending champions will begin their IPL 2026 campaign against Sunrisers Hyderabad on Mar 28 at M. Chinnaswamy Stadium in Bengaluru.

The defending champions, Royal Challengers Bengaluru, will begin their IPL 2026 campaign against Sunrisers Hyderabad on Mar 28 at M. Chinnaswamy Stadium in Bengaluru.

IPL 2026: When will Josh Hazlewood play? RCB coach Andy Flower gives update

Sri Lanka speedster Nuwan Thushara is likely to miss the 2026 season of the Indian Premier League after Sri Lanka Cricket (SLC) reportedly declined to issue him a No Objection Certificate (NOC) under its new fitness policy. This comes as a major setback for Royal Challengers Bengaluru (RCB), who may be without their overseas pacer for the upcoming season. As per reports, SLC now permits players to participate in overseas leagues only if they meet newly introduced benchmarks aimed at improving overall fitness across the national pool.&nbsp;The 31-year-old, while not injured and available to play, failed to meet the required benchmarks in recent fitness assessments and as a result, he has not been granted the NOC, ruling him out of the tournament unless there is a change in the decision.&nbsp;Also Read - <a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/carolina-marin-drops-curtains-on-illustrious-career-former-olympic-champion-announces-official-retirement-1774539304209">Former Olympic champion Carolina Marin announces official retirement</a>&nbsp;Under the new rules, all players must pass fitness tests before they can take part in leagues like the IPL or Pakistan Super League. Thushara’s selection depended on passing these tests, but reports say he could not reach the set standards.&nbsp;&nbsp;Meanwhile, several Sri Lankan players have cleared the required fitness benchmarks and been granted approval to play in the IPL, including Dushmantha Chameera, Dasun Shanaka, Pathum Nissanka and Kamindu Mendis.&nbsp;Also Read - <a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/bcci-releases-full-ipl-2026-schedule-13-venues-to-host-70-matches-raipur-dharamshala-included-1774530440563">BCCI releases full IPL 2026 schedule, 13 venues to host 70 matches</a><h2>Josh Hazlewood joins RCB camp&nbsp;</h2>Australian pacer Josh Hazlewood has linked up with the Royal Challengers Bengaluru squad ahead of the Indian Premier League 2026 season, with the franchise confirming his arrival on Mar 26 through their social media channels.&nbsp;However, the defending champions will have to begin their campaign without the experienced quick as he continues his recovery from hamstring and Achilles issues. The right-arm pacer was earlier sidelined during the home Ashes against England and also missed the T20 World Cup 2026, held in India and Sri Lanka.

Sri Lanka speedster Nuwan Thushara is likely to miss the 2026 season of the Indian Premier League after Sri Lanka Cricket (SLC) reportedly declined to issue him a No Objection Certificate (NOC) under its new fitness policy. This comes as a major setback for Royal Challengers Bengaluru (RCB), who may be without their overseas pacer for the upcoming season. As per reports, SLC now permits players to participate in overseas leagues only if they meet newly introduced benchmarks aimed at improving overall fitness across the national pool. The 31-year-old, while not injured and available to play, failed to meet the required benchmarks in recent fitness assessments and as a result, he has not been granted the NOC, ruling him out of the tournament unless there is a change in the decision. Also Read - Former Olympic champion Carolina Marin announces official retirement Under the new rules, all players must pass fitness tests before they can take part in leagues like the IPL or Pakistan Super League. Thushara’s selection depended on passing these tests, but reports say he could not reach the set standards. Meanwhile, several Sri Lankan players have cleared the required fitness benchmarks and been granted approval to play in the IPL, including Dushmantha Chameera, Dasun Shanaka, Pathum Nissanka and Kamindu Mendis. Also Read - BCCI releases full IPL 2026 schedule, 13 venues to host 70 matches Josh Hazlewood joins RCB camp Australian pacer Josh Hazlewood has linked up with the Royal Challengers Bengaluru squad ahead of the Indian Premier League 2026 season, with the franchise confirming his arrival on Mar 26 through their social media channels. However, the defending champions will have to begin their campaign without the experienced quick as he continues his recovery from hamstring and Achilles issues. The right-arm pacer was earlier sidelined during the home Ashes against England and also missed the T20 World Cup 2026, held in India and Sri Lanka.

IPL 2026: RCB pacer Nuwan Thushara set to miss season due to THIS reason

Defending champions Royal Challengers Bengaluru (RCB) have suffered a major setback before the Indian Premier League (IPL) 2026, as the team management has confirmed that pacer Yash Dayal will not take part in the entire tournament due to personal reasons. The 28-year-old was also missing from RCB’s practice sessions and was also not included in the team’s promotional posters, which led to speculation about his absence. Now RCB’s director of cricket, Mo Bobat, has clarified the situation.&nbsp;Speaking at a press conference, Bobat said that Dayal is dealing with personal issues and the team has been supporting him, including deciding to retain him. He added that Dayal remains under contract and the franchise is staying in touch, but both the player and the team agreed that it is better for him not to participate at this time.&nbsp;Also Read - <a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/-he-is-like-a-teacher-to-me-lsg-youngster-credits-jasprit-bumrah-for-injury-comeback-1774337985002">‘He is like a teacher to me’: LSG youngster credits Bumrah for injury comeback</a>&nbsp;"So, just to confirm that Yash will not be joining up with the squad. As you know, he is going through a personal situation currently, and just to clarify, we've been very supportive of Yash to date and that's reflected in the fact that we retained him when we had the opportunity to either retain or release players.We wanted to retain him, and he remains under contract and will continue in the short term to remain under contract," Bobat told the media during a press conference on Tuesday.&nbsp;"We are communicating with him regularly. I spoke to him earlier today as well, but it has been decided that it is not in his best interest or the franchise's best interest for him to join up with us at this point. He retains our support, and he remains under contract, and we'll continue to speak to him as he goes through his personal situation," he added.&nbsp;Also Read - <a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/up-government-set-to-appoint-rinku-singh-as-regional-sports-officer-1774340392880">UP government set to appoint Rinku Singh as regional sports officer</a>&nbsp;Yash Dayal has come under serious investigation following multiple allegations of sexual assault and exploitation. One major case has been filed in Jaipur under the POCSO Act, which applies to crimes involving minors and the complaint accuses him of repeated exploitation over a long period.&nbsp;Even in Dec 2025, a special POCSO court in Jaipur rejected his plea for anticipatory bail. The judge noted that the charges are very serious and the cases like this require careful handling, especially when a minor is involved.

Defending champions Royal Challengers Bengaluru (RCB) have suffered a major setback before the Indian Premier League (IPL) 2026, as the team management has confirmed that pacer Yash Dayal will not take part in the entire tournament due to personal reasons. The 28-year-old was also missing from RCB’s practice sessions and was also not included in the team’s promotional posters, which led to speculation about his absence. Now RCB’s director of cricket, Mo Bobat, has clarified the situation. Speaking at a press conference, Bobat said that Dayal is dealing with personal issues and the team has been supporting him, including deciding to retain him. He added that Dayal remains under contract and the franchise is staying in touch, but both the player and the team agreed that it is better for him not to participate at this time. Also Read - ‘He is like a teacher to me’: LSG youngster credits Bumrah for injury comeback "So, just to confirm that Yash will not be joining up with the squad. As you know, he is going through a personal situation currently, and just to clarify, we've been very supportive of Yash to date and that's reflected in the fact that we retained him when we had the opportunity to either retain or release players.We wanted to retain him, and he remains under contract and will continue in the short term to remain under contract," Bobat told the media during a press conference on Tuesday. "We are communicating with him regularly. I spoke to him earlier today as well, but it has been decided that it is not in his best interest or the franchise's best interest for him to join up with us at this point. He retains our support, and he remains under contract, and we'll continue to speak to him as he goes through his personal situation," he added. Also Read - UP government set to appoint Rinku Singh as regional sports officer Yash Dayal has come under serious investigation following multiple allegations of sexual assault and exploitation. One major case has been filed in Jaipur under the POCSO Act, which applies to crimes involving minors and the complaint accuses him of repeated exploitation over a long period. Even in Dec 2025, a special POCSO court in Jaipur rejected his plea for anticipatory bail. The judge noted that the charges are very serious and the cases like this require careful handling, especially when a minor is involved.

IPL 2026: RCB suffer major blow with Yash Dayal pulling out for personal reasons

Former Royal Challengers Benglauru (RCB) captain Virat Kohli cannot stop making headlines as less than a week remains for the Indian Premier League (IPL 2026) to start. On Sunday, the former RCB skipper was in the spotlight as he laughed off one of the rumours that was making the rounds in the media. Virat’s reaction left everyone stunned while also dismissing any such rumour that surrounds the veteran batter.<h2>Virat dismisses rumours</h2>In a cryptic Instagram story, Virat shared a laughing emoji, along with a claim stating that Virat had asked for a chartered flight to RCB management. This chartered flight would be arranged from India to London if there is a gap of three days between two IPL matches. The claim further added that Virat would return to India a day before the IPL match and rejoin the squad. However, a laughing emoji on the story did suggest that no such claims were true and the 2025 IPL winner would stay in India with the RCB squad.&nbsp;ALSO READ | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/photos/meet-indians-to-score-most-runs-in-each-of-last-5-t20-world-cups-ft-virat-kohli-kl-rahul-rohit-sharma-2026-t20-world-cup-1768479871185">Meet Indians to score most runs in each of last 5 T20 World Cups ft Virat Kohli</a>&nbsp;It is worth noting that Virat stays in London with his family these days, away from the media spotlight. He, along with wife Anushka and their two kids, have been traveling across the English capital and India whenever they have sporting commitments, but have largely opted to stay away from the media.&nbsp;ALSO READ | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/photos/from-chris-gayle-to-brendon-mccullum-5-batters-to-score-fastest-t20-world-cup-hundreds-rilee-rossouw-ahmed-shehzad-1768553361691">From Chris Gayle to Brendon McCullum, 5 batters to score fastest T20 World Cup hundreds</a>&nbsp;The former India captain will return to competitive action on Saturday (Mar 28) when RCB take on 2016 champions SunRisers Hyderabad (SRH) at the M.Chinnaswamy Stadium in Bengaluru in the curtain-raiser clash. Virat has joined the RCB squad for the pre-season and will be available full-time. Virat was last in competitive action in January when the Men in Blue faced New Zealand.

On Sunday, the former RCB skipper was in the spotlight as he laughed off one of the rumours that was making the rounds in the media. Virat’s reaction left everyone stunned while also dismissing any such rumour that surrounds the veteran batter.

Former Royal Challengers Benglauru (RCB) captain Virat Kohli cannot stop making headlines as less than a week remains for the Indian Premier League (IPL 2026) to start. On Sunday, the former RCB skipper was in the spotlight as he laughed off one of the rumours that was making the rounds in the media. Virat’s reaction left everyone stunned while also dismissing any such rumour that surrounds the veteran batter. Virat dismisses rumours In a cryptic Instagram story, Virat shared a laughing emoji, along with a claim stating that Virat had asked for a chartered flight to RCB management. This chartered flight would be arranged from India to London if there is a gap of three days between two IPL matches. The claim further added that Virat would return to India a day before the IPL match and rejoin the squad. However, a laughing emoji on the story did suggest that no such claims were true and the 2025 IPL winner would stay in India with the RCB squad. ALSO READ | Meet Indians to score most runs in each of last 5 T20 World Cups ft Virat Kohli It is worth noting that Virat stays in London with his family these days, away from the media spotlight. He, along with wife Anushka and their two kids, have been traveling across the English capital and India whenever they have sporting commitments, but have largely opted to stay away from the media. ALSO READ | From Chris Gayle to Brendon McCullum, 5 batters to score fastest T20 World Cup hundreds The former India captain will return to competitive action on Saturday (Mar 28) when RCB take on 2016 champions SunRisers Hyderabad (SRH) at the M.Chinnaswamy Stadium in Bengaluru in the curtain-raiser clash. Virat has joined the RCB squad for the pre-season and will be available full-time. Virat was last in competitive action in January when the Men in Blue faced New Zealand.

On Sunday, the former RCB skipper was in the spotlight as he laughed off one of the rumours that was making the rounds in the media. Virat’s reaction left everyone stunned while also dismissing any such rumour that surrounds the veteran batter.

Virat Kohli to get chartered flight to London during IPL 2026? Here's how former RCB captain reacted

Defending champions Royal Challengers Bengaluru (RCB) look to have one of the strongest squads going into the 19th season of the Indian Premier League. Here's who all made it to their final 25 for IPL 2026.

IPL 2026: Check out RCB final squad; batters, bowlers, keepers and more

India batting stalwart Virat Kohli warned his Royal Challengers Bengaluru (RCB) teammates that IPL 2026 season will be more difficult because, they are the current champions, so other teams will try harder to beat them. During the team’s first practice session at the M. Chinnaswamy Stadium, Kohli spoke to a small group of mostly Indian players and asked them to give their full effort in the coming weeks. For many years, RCB was often seen as a “banter franchise,” struggling to win a title despite having top players for 17 years. However, coach Andy Flower and director of cricket Mo Bobat changed the team’s approach and focused on building a balanced team with consistent performers instead of only relying on big stars. Their strategy paid off in 2025, when RCB claimed their first IPL title by defeating Punjab Kings in Ahmedabad.&nbsp;Also Read - <a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/-took-a-lot-of-effort-shreyas-iyer-on-injury-recovery-ahead-of-ipl-2026-1774064241958">‘Took a lot of effort….’: Shreyas Iyer on injury recovery ahead of IPL 2026</a>&nbsp;Kohli said the team worked very hard over the past few seasons to achieve success, but now the challenge will be bigger because other teams will come prepared. He told his teammates not to waste any time and to stay focused, giving more than their best for the next two and a half months. He also added that the team looks excited and ready for the challenge.&nbsp;&nbsp;“We worked really hard over the last two to three seasons to achieve what we did last year, and it’s only going to get tougher because the other teams are going to come hard at us," Kohli said.&nbsp;“We don’t waste these days. We stay ahead. So, switch on now. Let’s not waste even a minute of every session we are a part of. We must give our 120% for these two and a half months. I can see from everyone’s faces that we are excited enough to be challengers," he added.&nbsp;Coach Andy Flower kicked off the session by greeting the new players and said that combining them with experienced ones like Virat Kohli and Rajat Patidar will help build a solid team. Flower also mentioned that having a star on their jersey as champions is a proud moment, but last season is over and the team must now focus on winning again this year.&nbsp;Also Read - <a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/who-was-saleh-mohammadi-young-wrestling-champion-executed-in-iran-for-anti-national-activities-1774002839253">Who was Saleh Mohammadi? Young wrestling champion executed in Iran</a>&nbsp;“We had an interesting auction. I think we’ve improved our squad, to be quite frank," Flower said in the video. “We brought in some great new additions. So, integrating those new players into the RCB way with some of the established players, obviously led by Virat and Rajat, is an exciting part of building a new team together. If there is one difference this year, we have actually got a star on our shirts. So that is a very proud feeling to have for all RCBians. One thing that I would emphasise, though, is that the season’s gone and now we have a new challenge ahead of us, and it’s a really exciting challenge. We’re here to win this year’s IPL."

India batting stalwart Virat Kohli warned his Royal Challengers Bengaluru (RCB) teammates that IPL 2026 season will be more difficult because, they are the current champions, so other teams will try harder to beat them. During the team’s first practice session at the M. Chinnaswamy Stadium, Kohli spoke to a small group of mostly Indian players and asked them to give their full effort in the coming weeks. For many years, RCB was often seen as a “banter franchise,” struggling to win a title despite having top players for 17 years. However, coach Andy Flower and director of cricket Mo Bobat changed the team’s approach and focused on building a balanced team with consistent performers instead of only relying on big stars. Their strategy paid off in 2025, when RCB claimed their first IPL title by defeating Punjab Kings in Ahmedabad. Also Read - ‘Took a lot of effort….’: Shreyas Iyer on injury recovery ahead of IPL 2026 Kohli said the team worked very hard over the past few seasons to achieve success, but now the challenge will be bigger because other teams will come prepared. He told his teammates not to waste any time and to stay focused, giving more than their best for the next two and a half months. He also added that the team looks excited and ready for the challenge. “We worked really hard over the last two to three seasons to achieve what we did last year, and it’s only going to get tougher because the other teams are going to come hard at us," Kohli said. “We don’t waste these days. We stay ahead. So, switch on now. Let’s not waste even a minute of every session we are a part of. We must give our 120% for these two and a half months. I can see from everyone’s faces that we are excited enough to be challengers," he added. Coach Andy Flower kicked off the session by greeting the new players and said that combining them with experienced ones like Virat Kohli and Rajat Patidar will help build a solid team. Flower also mentioned that having a star on their jersey as champions is a proud moment, but last season is over and the team must now focus on winning again this year. Also Read - Who was Saleh Mohammadi? Young wrestling champion executed in Iran “We had an interesting auction. I think we’ve improved our squad, to be quite frank," Flower said in the video. “We brought in some great new additions. So, integrating those new players into the RCB way with some of the established players, obviously led by Virat and Rajat, is an exciting part of building a new team together. If there is one difference this year, we have actually got a star on our shirts. So that is a very proud feeling to have for all RCBians. One thing that I would emphasise, though, is that the season’s gone and now we have a new challenge ahead of us, and it’s a really exciting challenge. We’re here to win this year’s IPL."

‘Teams will come hard at us’: Virat Kohli warns RCB teammates ahead of IPL 2026

Cricket is set to return to the iconic M. Chinnaswamy Stadium in Bengaluru, which will host several key matches in the Indian Premier League 2026, bringing great excitement to fans across Karnataka. The playoffs and final will also slated to take place here, making Bengaluru one of the tournament’s central venues. The stadium will serve as the home ground for Royal Challengers Bengaluru, who are scheduled to play five league matches at Chinnaswamy. Known for its lively crowd and high-scoring games, the ground will provide RCB an ideal stage to start their title defence in front of their home supporters.&nbsp;The stadium will also host the season opener and the opening ceremony, with a full crowd expected as fans welcome their team back following the tragic stampede in 2025 during RCB’s first IPL title celebration.&nbsp;&nbsp;Also Read - <a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/t20-world-cup-2026-what-happens-if-sa-vs-nz-semifinal-is-washed-out-in-kolkata-1772537317686">T20 World Cup 2026: What happens if SA vs NZ semifinal is washed out in Kolkata</a><h2>How did Chinnaswamy Stadium get clearance?</h2>The Karnataka government allowed IPL matches to resume at the stadium after cricket activities were stopped due to the stampede that claimed 11 lives. The approval came after the Justice Cunha report was submitted and the report suggested several short-term and long-term steps to improve safety for spectators.&nbsp;Earlier, the stadium was expected to host the Ranji Trophy final between Karnataka and Jammu and Kashmir, but the match was shifted to Hubballi because safety upgrades were still underway. Now, with a strict limit of 35,000 spectators and supervision from multiple departments, cricket is ready to return to the venue with stronger safety rules in place.&nbsp;Also Read - <a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/icc-women-s-odi-rankings-smriti-mandhana-replaces-laura-wolvaardt-to-claim-no-1-batter-spot-1772535044142">ICC Women's ODI Rankings: Mandhana replaces Wolvaardt to claim no. 1 batter spot</a>&nbsp;RCB thanked the Government of Karnataka, the Karnataka State Cricket Association and the Karnataka Police for their support and coordination in helping Bengaluru host the matches again.&nbsp;&nbsp;Apart from their five home games in Bengaluru, RCB will also play two league matches at the Shaheed Veer Narayan Singh International Cricket Stadium in Raipur, which will serve as their second home ground for the season.

Apart from their five home games in Bengaluru, RCB will also play two league matches at the Shaheed Veer Narayan Singh International Cricket Stadium in Raipur, which will serve as their second home ground for the season.

Cricket is set to return to the iconic M. Chinnaswamy Stadium in Bengaluru, which will host several key matches in the Indian Premier League 2026, bringing great excitement to fans across Karnataka. The playoffs and final will also slated to take place here, making Bengaluru one of the tournament’s central venues. The stadium will serve as the home ground for Royal Challengers Bengaluru, who are scheduled to play five league matches at Chinnaswamy. Known for its lively crowd and high-scoring games, the ground will provide RCB an ideal stage to start their title defence in front of their home supporters. The stadium will also host the season opener and the opening ceremony, with a full crowd expected as fans welcome their team back following the tragic stampede in 2025 during RCB’s first IPL title celebration. Also Read - T20 World Cup 2026: What happens if SA vs NZ semifinal is washed out in Kolkata How did Chinnaswamy Stadium get clearance? The Karnataka government allowed IPL matches to resume at the stadium after cricket activities were stopped due to the stampede that claimed 11 lives. The approval came after the Justice Cunha report was submitted and the report suggested several short-term and long-term steps to improve safety for spectators. Earlier, the stadium was expected to host the Ranji Trophy final between Karnataka and Jammu and Kashmir, but the match was shifted to Hubballi because safety upgrades were still underway. Now, with a strict limit of 35,000 spectators and supervision from multiple departments, cricket is ready to return to the venue with stronger safety rules in place. Also Read - ICC Women's ODI Rankings: Mandhana replaces Wolvaardt to claim no. 1 batter spot RCB thanked the Government of Karnataka, the Karnataka State Cricket Association and the Karnataka Police for their support and coordination in helping Bengaluru host the matches again. Apart from their five home games in Bengaluru, RCB will also play two league matches at the Shaheed Veer Narayan Singh International Cricket Stadium in Raipur, which will serve as their second home ground for the season.

Apart from their five home games in Bengaluru, RCB will also play two league matches at the Shaheed Veer Narayan Singh International Cricket Stadium in Raipur, which will serve as their second home ground for the season.

IPL back at Chinnaswamy, Bengaluru set to host five matches, playoffs and final

Manchester United owners Glazer family, could soon have their stocks invested in the Indian Premier League (IPL) as they are reported to be interested in the Royal Challengers Bengaluru (RCB). The Glazer family, which owns majority shares at Premier League side Manchester United, could be the latest high-profile owners in the league as they could join the likes of Shah Rukh Khan, Ambani and others. RCB has been up for sale with multiple investors interested, including the CEO of the Serum Institute of India, Adar Poonawalla<h2>Glazers interested in RCB?</h2>As per reports, the Glazer family has submitted an offer worth 1.8 billion dollars (roughly Rs 16,300 crore) through its investment company Lancer Capital, making it one of the strongest names in an ownership race that is now attracting attention well beyond India. The development comes just days after RCB’s women's side won the WPL 2026, having defeated Delhi Capitals in the summit clash.&nbsp;IPL teams are increasingly seen as major business assets, and RCB are among the league’s most valuable. RCB possesses one of the largest fan bases in the IPL and strong sponsorship and branding power.<h2>What happened in the WPL final?</h2>Lizelle Lee (37 in 30 balls, with three fours and three sixes) and Shafali Verma (20 in 13 balls, with three fours) put their team to a flying start. A 76-run stand for the third wicket between Jemimah Rodrigues, who played a captain's knock of 57 in 37 balls, with eight fours and Laura Wolvaardt (44 in 35 balls, with three fours and two sixes) brought them back to the game. Just when RCB threatened to pull things back, Chinelle Henry (35 in 15 balls, with four boundaries and two sixes) played a fiery cameo to power DC to 203/4 in 20 overs, the highest in a WPL final.&nbsp;In the chase, RCB lost Grace Harris (8) early, but a 165-run stand between Smriti (87 in 41 balls, with 12 fours and three sixes) and Georgia Voll (79 in 54 balls, with 14 fours) pierced DC's chances with every hit. DC threatened to pull things back with three quick wickets in the final few overs, but Radha Yadav (12*) and Nadine de Klerk (7*) chased the total with six wickets and two balls in hand. Mandhana was adjudged the 'Player of the Match' award.

IPL teams are increasingly seen as major business assets, and RCB are among the league’s most valuable. RCB possesses one of the largest fan bases in the IPL and strong sponsorship and branding power.

Manchester United owners Glazer family, could soon have their stocks invested in the Indian Premier League (IPL) as they are reported to be interested in the Royal Challengers Bengaluru (RCB). The Glazer family, which owns majority shares at Premier League side Manchester United, could be the latest high-profile owners in the league as they could join the likes of Shah Rukh Khan, Ambani and others. RCB has been up for sale with multiple investors interested, including the CEO of the Serum Institute of India, Adar Poonawalla Glazers interested in RCB? As per reports, the Glazer family has submitted an offer worth 1.8 billion dollars (roughly Rs 16,300 crore) through its investment company Lancer Capital, making it one of the strongest names in an ownership race that is now attracting attention well beyond India. The development comes just days after RCB’s women's side won the WPL 2026, having defeated Delhi Capitals in the summit clash. IPL teams are increasingly seen as major business assets, and RCB are among the league’s most valuable. RCB possesses one of the largest fan bases in the IPL and strong sponsorship and branding power. What happened in the WPL final? Lizelle Lee (37 in 30 balls, with three fours and three sixes) and Shafali Verma (20 in 13 balls, with three fours) put their team to a flying start. A 76-run stand for the third wicket between Jemimah Rodrigues, who played a captain's knock of 57 in 37 balls, with eight fours and Laura Wolvaardt (44 in 35 balls, with three fours and two sixes) brought them back to the game. Just when RCB threatened to pull things back, Chinelle Henry (35 in 15 balls, with four boundaries and two sixes) played a fiery cameo to power DC to 203/4 in 20 overs, the highest in a WPL final. In the chase, RCB lost Grace Harris (8) early, but a 165-run stand between Smriti (87 in 41 balls, with 12 fours and three sixes) and Georgia Voll (79 in 54 balls, with 14 fours) pierced DC's chances with every hit. DC threatened to pull things back with three quick wickets in the final few overs, but Radha Yadav (12*) and Nadine de Klerk (7*) chased the total with six wickets and two balls in hand. Mandhana was adjudged the 'Player of the Match' award.

IPL teams are increasingly seen as major business assets, and RCB are among the league’s most valuable. RCB possesses one of the largest fan bases in the IPL and strong sponsorship and branding power.

Manchester United owners to buy IPL champions RCB? Here's what we know so far

The process to change the ownership of Royal Challengers Bengaluru (RCB) gained momentum on Thursday (Jan 22) after Adar Poonawalla said he plans to place a “strong and competitive” bid for the IPL team. RCB are the defending IPL champions and are considered to have one of the largest fan bases in the league. However, Poonawalla did not share details about the bid amount or the exact timeline. Since the IPL 2026 season begins on March 26, the bidding process is expected to happen soon.&nbsp;In a statement, Poonawalla, CEO of the Serum Institute of India, said that over the next few months he would submit a strong bid for RCB, calling it one of the best teams in the IPL.&nbsp;&nbsp;"Over the next few months, will be putting in a STRONG and COMPETITIVE bid for RCB, one of the best teams in the IPL," said Poonawalla.&nbsp;

<blockquote class="twitter-tweet">Over the next few months, will be putting in a STRONG and COMPETITIVE bid for <a href="https://twitter.com/RCBTweets?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@RCBTweets</a>, one of the best teams in the IPL.&mdash; Adar Poonawalla (@adarpoonawalla) <a href="https://twitter.com/adarpoonawalla/status/2014318866147742087?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">January 22, 2026</a></blockquote> <script async src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script>

United Spirits Ltd (USL), the current owner of RCB and part of global liquor company Diageo, began looking for a new owner in November last year. According to Forbes India, the team is valued at around USD 105 million. The decision to sell the franchise gained acceleration after a stampede during RCB’s victory celebrations on June 4, which resulted in the death of 11 fans.&nbsp;Also Read - <a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/ind-vs-nz-2nd-t20i-when-and-where-to-watch-india-vs-new-zealand-match-live-streaming-in-india-1769136526719">IND vs NZ, 2nd T20I: When and where to watch India vs New Zealand match live streaming in India?</a>&nbsp;Poonawalla’s announcement comes amid reports that RCB may not play their home matches in Bengaluru during the IPL 2026 season. Cities such as Pune, Mumbai and Raipur have reportedly approached the franchise to host their home matches.&nbsp;&nbsp;However, the Karnataka State Cricket Association (KSCA) has given the permission to hold matches at the M. Chinnaswamy Stadium, provided all rules and safety conditions set by the authorities are followed.&nbsp;Also Read - <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/davos-2026-fifa-president-gianni-infantino-praises-football-s-magic-globally-says-it-transforms-people-s-life-del-piero-wenger-1769098245439">Davos 2026: FIFA President Gianni Infantino praises football's magic globally, says 'it transforms people's life'</a>&nbsp;“We are pleased to announce that the Home Department, Government of Karnataka, has granted permission to the Karnataka State Cricket Association to host international and IPL matches at the iconic venue. The permission is subject to compliance with specific terms and conditions prescribed by the government and concerned authorities,” the association said in a statement.

Poonawalla’s announcement comes amid reports that RCB may not play their home matches in Bengaluru during the IPL 2026 season. Cities such as Pune, Mumbai and Raipur have reportedly approached the franchise to host their matches. 

The process to change the ownership of Royal Challengers Bengaluru (RCB) gained momentum on Thursday (Jan 22) after Adar Poonawalla said he plans to place a “strong and competitive” bid for the IPL team. RCB are the defending IPL champions and are considered to have one of the largest fan bases in the league. However, Poonawalla did not share details about the bid amount or the exact timeline. Since the IPL 2026 season begins on March 26, the bidding process is expected to happen soon. In a statement, Poonawalla, CEO of the Serum Institute of India, said that over the next few months he would submit a strong bid for RCB, calling it one of the best teams in the IPL. "Over the next few months, will be putting in a STRONG and COMPETITIVE bid for RCB, one of the best teams in the IPL," said Poonawalla.

Poonawalla’s announcement comes amid reports that RCB may not play their home matches in Bengaluru during the IPL 2026 season. Cities such as Pune, Mumbai and Raipur have reportedly approached the franchise to host their matches.&nbsp;

‘Will place strong bid in coming months’: Adar Poonawalla confirms interest in RCB ownership

The Karnataka State Cricket Association (KSCA) has received approval to host Indian Premier League (IPL) and international matches at the M. Chinnaswamy Stadium in Bengaluru. The announcement was made on Saturday (Jan 17). In a statement, KSCA said that the Home Department of the Karnataka government has given the permission to hold matches at the stadium, provided all rules and safety conditions set by the authorities are followed.&nbsp;“We are pleased to announce that the Home Department, Government of Karnataka, has granted permission to the Karnataka State Cricket Association to host international and IPL matches at the iconic venue. The permission is subject to compliance with specific terms and conditions prescribed by the government and concerned authorities,” the association said in a statement.&nbsp;Also Read - <a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/mi-w-vs-upw-w-wpl-2026-meg-lanning-bowlers-power-warriorz-to-22-run-win-1768652741932">MI-W vs UPW-W, WPL 2026: Meg Lanning, bowlers power Warriorz to 22-run win</a>&nbsp;Cricket matches at the venue had been stopped since June last year after a tragic stampede during Royal Challengers Bengaluru’s victory celebrations, which led to the death of 11 people and injuries to several others.&nbsp;Because of the incident, the stadium was not included as a venue for the upcoming T20 World Cup and matches of the Vijay Hazare Trophy were moved to the BCCI’s Centre of Excellence.&nbsp;Also Read - <a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/ind-vs-nz-3rd-odi-when-and-where-to-watch-india-vs-new-zealand-match-live-streaming-in-india-1768634130528">IND vs NZ, 3rd ODI: When and where to watch India vs New Zealand match live streaming in India?</a>&nbsp;The approval to host matches comes after steps were taken to follow the recommendations of the Justice Michael D’Cunha report, which was prepared as part of the investigation into the incident.

Cricket matches at the venue had been stopped since June last year after a tragic stampede during Royal Challengers Bengaluru’s victory celebrations, which led to the death of 11 people and injuries to several others.

The Karnataka State Cricket Association (KSCA) has received approval to host Indian Premier League (IPL) and international matches at the M. Chinnaswamy Stadium in Bengaluru. The announcement was made on Saturday (Jan 17). In a statement, KSCA said that the Home Department of the Karnataka government has given the permission to hold matches at the stadium, provided all rules and safety conditions set by the authorities are followed. “We are pleased to announce that the Home Department, Government of Karnataka, has granted permission to the Karnataka State Cricket Association to host international and IPL matches at the iconic venue. The permission is subject to compliance with specific terms and conditions prescribed by the government and concerned authorities,” the association said in a statement. Also Read - MI-W vs UPW-W, WPL 2026: Meg Lanning, bowlers power Warriorz to 22-run win Cricket matches at the venue had been stopped since June last year after a tragic stampede during Royal Challengers Bengaluru’s victory celebrations, which led to the death of 11 people and injuries to several others. Because of the incident, the stadium was not included as a venue for the upcoming T20 World Cup and matches of the Vijay Hazare Trophy were moved to the BCCI’s Centre of Excellence. Also Read - IND vs NZ, 3rd ODI: When and where to watch India vs New Zealand match live streaming in India? The approval to host matches comes after steps were taken to follow the recommendations of the Justice Michael D’Cunha report, which was prepared as part of the investigation into the incident.

Cricket matches at the venue had been stopped since June last year after a tragic stampede during Royal Challengers Bengaluru’s victory celebrations, which led to the death of 11 people and injuries to several others.

Karnataka government grants permission to host IPL and international matches at Chinnaswamy Stadium

Controversies were at the centre of all the happenings in 2025 as an Indian sport was shaken with some incredible moments echoing in the calendar year. Whether it was the stampede in Bengaluru after RCB’s maiden IPL title or the ISL season going into limbo, the sports fraternity witnessed some incredible moments. So as the year drops curtains, here is a look at five controversial moments that highlighted 2025.<h2>Stampede during RCB’s victory parade in Bengaluru</h2>On 4 June 2025, a day after RCB won their maiden IPL title in Ahmedabad, a victory parade was planned at the Chinnaswamy Stadium in Benglauru. In the aftermath of RCB’s maiden IPL title win, an unfortunate incident of stampede occurred as the franchise celebrated in the state capital. At least 11 people were killed, leading to a series of actions from the state government and consequences in the aftermath of the incident. &nbsp;&nbsp;<h2>India vs Pakistan handshake row in Asia Cup 2025</h2>Indian players refused to shake hands with their Pakistan counterparts at the toss and then in the post-match during the India vs Pakistan clash in the Asia Cup 2025. In the aftermath, an official complaint was raised by the Pakistan Cricket Board to the ICC match referee. The complaint was later confirmed by Mohsin Naqvi, who is the head of the PCB and also of the Asian Cricket Council (ACC).&nbsp;ALSO READ | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/photos/from-steve-smith-to-joe-root-5-active-batters-with-most-runs-in-ashes-ben-stokes-jonny-bairstow-usman-khawaja-1762275784636">From Steve Smith to Joe Root, 5 active batters with most runs in Ashes</a><h2>Chaos in Messi’s Kolkata event</h2>Lionel Messi, who landed in Kolkata in the wee hours of Saturday (Dec 13) for his four-city GOAT tour, was at the Salt Lake Stadium when chaos erupted from the fans. The incident saw fans hurling water bottles and chairs in the stand after Messi’s visit lasted for less than 10 minutes, as he was not in action despite fans paying a big sum for his glimpse. Police took control into their hands, but anger was evident from a section of the fans. In the meantime, CM Mamata had to cancel her trip to the Salt Lake Stadium while she was on her way, with Messi already leaving for the airport.&nbsp;ALSO READ | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/photos/from-leonard-hutton-to-don-bradman-5-batters-with-highest-individual-score-in-ashes-bob-simpson-bob-cowper-ashes-2025-26-1762276944046">From Leonard Hutton to Don Bradman, 5 batters with highest individual score in Ashes</a><h2>No ISL season as sponsors pull out</h2>The FSDL’s contract with AIFF for ISL came to an end last season with no new contract agreed between the parties. As part of the agreement, FSDL pays AIFF Rs 50 crore ($5.82mn) annually to oversee properties like the national team and the Indian Super League. However, no deal was struck as the ISL season was cancelled. &nbsp;<h2>India denied Asia Cup trophy</h2>India refused to accept the Asia Cup trophy at the presentation ceremony, which was delayed by more than an hour after they beat Pakistan by five wickets in the final in September in Dubai. They refused because the trophy was to be presented by Asian Cricket Council president Mohsin Naqvi, who is also the chairman of the PCB and the interior minister of Pakistan.

 In the aftermath of RCB’s maiden IPL title win, an unfortunate incident of stampede occurred as the franchise celebrated in the state capital. 11 people were killed, leading to a series of actions from the state government and consequences in the aftermath of the incident.   

Controversies were at the centre of all the happenings in 2025 as an Indian sport was shaken with some incredible moments echoing in the calendar year. Whether it was the stampede in Bengaluru after RCB’s maiden IPL title or the ISL season going into limbo, the sports fraternity witnessed some incredible moments. So as the year drops curtains, here is a look at five controversial moments that highlighted 2025. Stampede during RCB’s victory parade in Bengaluru On 4 June 2025, a day after RCB won their maiden IPL title in Ahmedabad, a victory parade was planned at the Chinnaswamy Stadium in Benglauru. In the aftermath of RCB’s maiden IPL title win, an unfortunate incident of stampede occurred as the franchise celebrated in the state capital. At least 11 people were killed, leading to a series of actions from the state government and consequences in the aftermath of the incident. India vs Pakistan handshake row in Asia Cup 2025 Indian players refused to shake hands with their Pakistan counterparts at the toss and then in the post-match during the India vs Pakistan clash in the Asia Cup 2025. In the aftermath, an official complaint was raised by the Pakistan Cricket Board to the ICC match referee. The complaint was later confirmed by Mohsin Naqvi, who is the head of the PCB and also of the Asian Cricket Council (ACC). ALSO READ | From Steve Smith to Joe Root, 5 active batters with most runs in Ashes Chaos in Messi’s Kolkata event Lionel Messi, who landed in Kolkata in the wee hours of Saturday (Dec 13) for his four-city GOAT tour, was at the Salt Lake Stadium when chaos erupted from the fans. The incident saw fans hurling water bottles and chairs in the stand after Messi’s visit lasted for less than 10 minutes, as he was not in action despite fans paying a big sum for his glimpse. Police took control into their hands, but anger was evident from a section of the fans. In the meantime, CM Mamata had to cancel her trip to the Salt Lake Stadium while she was on her way, with Messi already leaving for the airport. ALSO READ | From Leonard Hutton to Don Bradman, 5 batters with highest individual score in Ashes No ISL season as sponsors pull out The FSDL’s contract with AIFF for ISL came to an end last season with no new contract agreed between the parties. As part of the agreement, FSDL pays AIFF Rs 50 crore ($5.82mn) annually to oversee properties like the national team and the Indian Super League. However, no deal was struck as the ISL season was cancelled. India denied Asia Cup trophy India refused to accept the Asia Cup trophy at the presentation ceremony, which was delayed by more than an hour after they beat Pakistan by five wickets in the final in September in Dubai. They refused because the trophy was to be presented by Asian Cricket Council president Mohsin Naqvi, who is also the chairman of the PCB and the interior minister of Pakistan.

&nbsp;In the aftermath of RCB’s maiden IPL title win, an unfortunate incident of stampede occurred as the franchise celebrated in the state capital. 11 people were killed, leading to a series of actions from the state government and consequences in the aftermath of the incident. &nbsp;&nbsp;

From Benglauru stampede to no ISL, 5 controversies that shook Indian sports

As 2025 draws to a close, cricket experienced one of the wildest years with streaks broken, heartbreaking emotions making weight and underdogs claiming big prizes. Amid those achievements, both international and franchise cricket produced some sensational moments and stats that all but raised the roofs. So as the year drops curtains, here is a look at five incredible stats from 2025 that raised eyebrows.<h2>RCB win all nine away matches</h2>9 out of 9 away matches won by RCB (including the Qualifier 1 and the final) without losing any of them during their victorious IPL 2025 campaign, the first such instance in 18 editions of the tournament. By achieving the rare feat, RCB would later win their maiden IPL title as they beat Punjab Kings in the final at the Narendra Modi Stadium in Ahmedabad.&nbsp;ALSO READ | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/photos/from-leonard-hutton-to-don-bradman-5-batters-with-highest-individual-score-in-ashes-bob-simpson-bob-cowper-ashes-2025-26-1762276944046">From Leonard Hutton to Don Bradman, 5 batters with highest individual score in Ashes</a><h2>South Africa continue hot streak in 2025</h2>10 consecutive Test wins for South Africa between August 2024 and July 2025, the third-longest streak in Tests after 16 for Australia (twice: October 1999 - February 2001; December 2005 - January 2008) and 11 for West Indies (March 1984 - December 1984). The highlight of this run was their WTC 2025 final victory over Australia at Lord's, under Temba Bavuma, who has now won 11 of his first 12 Tests as captain - the most for anyone.<h2>Australia win Ashes in 11 days</h2>11 days taken for Australia to secure the 2025/26 Ashes - the joint second-least taken by a team to do that in a five-match Ashes series, alongside as many for them 1950/51 (home), 2001 (away) and 2002/03 (home). The overall record is eight days taken by them on the 1921 England tour.&nbsp;ALSO READ | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/photos/from-steve-smith-to-joe-root-5-active-batters-with-most-runs-in-ashes-ben-stokes-jonny-bairstow-usman-khawaja-1762275784636">From Steve Smith to Joe Root, 5 active batters with most runs in Ashes</a><h2>Virat Kohli’s return to domestic cricket</h2>12 years, 2 months and 26 days was the duration between Virat Kohli's two List-A appearances for Delhi. Before featuring at the ongoing Vijay Hazare Trophy 2025/26, he'd last played for his state side in the 50-over format in the NKP Salve Challenger Trophy 2013 final against India Blue in Indore, leading an XI featuring Gautam Gambhir, Virender Sehwag and Ashish Nehra among others.

In 2025, some incredible stats highlighted the cricketing field as RCB broke their duck for IPL titles while South Africa clinched their maiden World Test Championship (WTC) title under Temba Bavuma. 

As 2025 draws to a close, cricket experienced one of the wildest years with streaks broken, heartbreaking emotions making weight and underdogs claiming big prizes. Amid those achievements, both international and franchise cricket produced some sensational moments and stats that all but raised the roofs. So as the year drops curtains, here is a look at five incredible stats from 2025 that raised eyebrows. RCB win all nine away matches 9 out of 9 away matches won by RCB (including the Qualifier 1 and the final) without losing any of them during their victorious IPL 2025 campaign, the first such instance in 18 editions of the tournament. By achieving the rare feat, RCB would later win their maiden IPL title as they beat Punjab Kings in the final at the Narendra Modi Stadium in Ahmedabad. ALSO READ | From Leonard Hutton to Don Bradman, 5 batters with highest individual score in Ashes South Africa continue hot streak in 2025 10 consecutive Test wins for South Africa between August 2024 and July 2025, the third-longest streak in Tests after 16 for Australia (twice: October 1999 - February 2001; December 2005 - January 2008) and 11 for West Indies (March 1984 - December 1984). The highlight of this run was their WTC 2025 final victory over Australia at Lord's, under Temba Bavuma, who has now won 11 of his first 12 Tests as captain - the most for anyone. Australia win Ashes in 11 days 11 days taken for Australia to secure the 2025/26 Ashes - the joint second-least taken by a team to do that in a five-match Ashes series, alongside as many for them 1950/51 (home), 2001 (away) and 2002/03 (home). The overall record is eight days taken by them on the 1921 England tour. ALSO READ | From Steve Smith to Joe Root, 5 active batters with most runs in Ashes Virat Kohli’s return to domestic cricket 12 years, 2 months and 26 days was the duration between Virat Kohli's two List-A appearances for Delhi. Before featuring at the ongoing Vijay Hazare Trophy 2025/26, he'd last played for his state side in the 50-over format in the NKP Salve Challenger Trophy 2013 final against India Blue in Indore, leading an XI featuring Gautam Gambhir, Virender Sehwag and Ashish Nehra among others.

In 2025, some incredible stats highlighted the cricketing field as RCB broke their duck for IPL titles while South Africa clinched their maiden World Test Championship (WTC) title under Temba Bavuma.

Five incredible cricket stats of 2025, RCB achieve THIS rare IPL feat

From Royal Challengers Bengaluru to Tottenham Hotspur here is a look at five teams that ended their title droughts in 2025. The illustrious list also features the likes of Crystal Palace, South Africa and Paris Saint-Germain. 

Yearender: From Royal Challengers Bengaluru to Tottenham Hotspur, 5 Teams that ended their title droughts in 2025

Th 2008 IPL champions Rajasthan Royals are reportedly being considered for sale before the 2026 season. This information comes from Harsha Goenka, the elder brother of Lucknow Super Giants owner Sanjiv Goenka and he claims that RR is looking for new owners. Goenka on Thursday (Nov 27) posted on his X, saying that not one but two franchises, Royal Challengers Bengaluru (RCB) and Rajasthan Royals (RR) are now reportedly up for sale.&nbsp;&nbsp;"I hear, not one, but two IPL teams are now up for sale- RCB and RR. It seems clear that people want to cash in the rich valuations today. So two teams for sale and 4/5 possible buyers! Who will be the successful buyers- will it be from Pune, Ahmedabad, Mumbai, Bengaluru or USA?" Harsh Goenka wrote.&nbsp;&nbsp;Also read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/from-amelia-kerr-to-sophie-devine-top-5-foreign-buys-in-wpl-2025-auctions-1764315034072">From Amelia Kerr to Sophie Devine: Top 5 foreign buys in WPL 2025 auctions</a>

<blockquote class="twitter-tweet">I hear, not one, but two IPL teams are now up for sale- RCB and RR. It seems clear that people want to cash in the rich valuations today. So two teams for sale and 4/5 possible buyers! Who will be the successful buyers- will it be from Pune, Ahmedabad, Mumbai, Bengaluru or USA?&mdash; Harsh Goenka (@hvgoenka) <a href="https://twitter.com/hvgoenka/status/1994055287712674098?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">November 27, 2025</a></blockquote> <script async src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script>

While his claim about RR remains unverified by the franchise, but Harsh statement quickly led to a wave of rumours. Unlike, the Royal Challengers Bengaluru (RCB), which has openly started a formal sale process, RR’s situation is not clear yet.&nbsp;&nbsp;The Royals are owned by Royal Multisports Private Limited, with Manoj Badale as the main shareholder. So far, neither the owners nor the team have said anything about selling of the franchise. &nbsp;&nbsp;Also Read - <a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/wpl-mega-auction-2026-check-complete-squads-of-mi-gg-rcb-dc-upw-1764305575242">WPL 2026: How teams stack up after auction - Check full squads of all five franchises</a>&nbsp;Whereas, On Nov 5, RCB’s parent company, United Spirits Ltd (USL), which is owned by UK-based Diageo, announced that it was reviewing its investment in the team.&nbsp;&nbsp;If both RCB and RR end up with new owners, it could bring big changes to the IPL, as fresh investment could influence auction strategies, player spending and long-term planning. It could also affect fan loyalty, especially for RCB, one of the league’s most popular teams.



Unlike the Royal Challengers Bengaluru (RCB), which has openly started a formal sale process, RR’s situation is not clear yet. 

Th 2008 IPL champions Rajasthan Royals are reportedly being considered for sale before the 2026 season. This information comes from Harsha Goenka, the elder brother of Lucknow Super Giants owner Sanjiv Goenka and he claims that RR is looking for new owners. Goenka on Thursday (Nov 27) posted on his X, saying that not one but two franchises, Royal Challengers Bengaluru (RCB) and Rajasthan Royals (RR) are now reportedly up for sale. "I hear, not one, but two IPL teams are now up for sale- RCB and RR. It seems clear that people want to cash in the rich valuations today. So two teams for sale and 4/5 possible buyers! Who will be the successful buyers- will it be from Pune, Ahmedabad, Mumbai, Bengaluru or USA?" Harsh Goenka wrote. Also read | From Amelia Kerr to Sophie Devine: Top 5 foreign buys in WPL 2025 auctions

Unlike, the Royal Challengers Bengaluru (RCB), which has openly started a formal sale process, RR’s situation is not clear yet.&nbsp;

Indian Premier League: Is Rajasthan Royals on sale? Harsh Goenka thinks so

The Women’s Premier League (WPL) 2026 mega auction took place in New Delhi on Thursday (Nov 27) with 277 players competing for 73 spots. Deepti Sharma became the costliest signing of the day after UP Warriorz used their Right to Match (RTM) card to bring her back for INR 3.20 crore. This signing also made her the second-most expensive Indian player in the auction and also the first one to be retained through RTM.&nbsp;&nbsp;Mumbai Indians spent INR 3 crore to sign New Zealand all-rounder Amelia Kerr again, even though they had released her before the auction. She became the second-most expensive overseas player.&nbsp;&nbsp;One of the biggest shocks came right at the start of the auction when Australian captain Alyssa Healy went unsold. Another Australian player, Alana King, also did not receive any bids, even during the accelerated round.&nbsp;&nbsp;Also Read - <a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/ashes-2025-26-cummins-misses-as-australia-name-unchanged-14-man-squad-for-brisbane-test-1764302924158">Ashes 2025-26: Cummins misses as Australia name unchanged 14-man squad for Brisbane Test</a><h2>WPL 2026: Complete squads for all teams</h2>Here's a look at the complete squads of all teams after Women's Premier League 2026 mega auction which took place on Thursday (Nov 27) in New Delhi:&nbsp;Mumbai Indians:&nbsp;Nat Sciver-Brunt (Retained 3.5 Cr),&nbsp;Harmanpreet Kaur&nbsp;(Retained 2.5 Cr), Hayley Mathews (Retained 1.75 Cr),&nbsp;Amanjot Kaur&nbsp;(Retained 1 Cr),&nbsp;G Kamalini&nbsp;(Retained 50 Lakh), Amelia Kerr (3 Cr), Shabnim Ismail (60 Lakh),&nbsp;Sanskriti Gupta&nbsp;(20 Lakh),&nbsp;Sajeevan Sajana&nbsp;(75 Lakh),&nbsp;Triveni Vasistha&nbsp;(20 Lakh), Nalla Reddy (10 Lakh),&nbsp;Saika Ishaque&nbsp;(30 Lakh), Rahila Firdous&nbsp;(10 Lakh), Nicola Carey (30 Lakh),&nbsp;Poonam Khemnar&nbsp;(10 Lakh) and Milly Illingworth&nbsp;(10 Lakh) Delhi Capitals:&nbsp;Jemimah Rodrigues (Retained 2.2 Cr),&nbsp;Shafali Verma&nbsp;(Retained 2.2 Cr),&nbsp;Annabel Sutherland&nbsp;(Retained 2.2 Cr),&nbsp;Marizanne Kapp&nbsp;(Retained 2.2 Cr),&nbsp;Niki Prasad&nbsp;(Retained 50 Lakh),&nbsp;Laura Wolvaardt&nbsp;(1.1 Cr), Chinelle Henry (1.3 Cr), Sree Charani (1.3 Cr),&nbsp;Sneh Rana&nbsp;(50 Lakh), Lizelee Lee (30 Lakh),&nbsp;Deeya Yadav&nbsp;(10 Lakh), Taniyaa Bhatia (30 Lakh),&nbsp;Mamatha Madiwala&nbsp;(10 Lakh),&nbsp;Nandani Sharma&nbsp;(20 Lakh), Lucy Hamilton (10 Lakh) and Minnu Mani&nbsp;(40 Lakh) Royal Challengers Bengaluru:&nbsp;Smriti Mandhana&nbsp;(Retained 3.5 Cr),&nbsp;Richa Ghosh&nbsp;(Retained 2.75 Cr),&nbsp;Ellyse Perry&nbsp;(Retained 2 Cr),&nbsp;Shreyanka Patil&nbsp;(Retained 60 Lakh),&nbsp;Georgia Voll&nbsp;(60 Lakh),&nbsp;Nadine de Klerk&nbsp;(65 Lakh),&nbsp;Radha Yadav&nbsp;(65 Lakh),&nbsp;Lauren Bell&nbsp;(90 Lakh),&nbsp;Linsey Smith&nbsp;(30 Lakh),&nbsp;Prema Rawat&nbsp;(RTM 20 Lakh), Arundathi Reddy (75 Lakh),&nbsp;Pooja Vastrakar&nbsp;(85 Lakh),&nbsp;Grace Harris&nbsp;(75 Lakh),&nbsp;Gautami Naik&nbsp;(10 Lakh),&nbsp;Prathyoosha Kumar&nbsp;(10 Lakh) and D Hemalatha (30 Lakh) Gujarat Giants:&nbsp;Ashleigh Gardner&nbsp;(Retained 3.5 Cr),&nbsp;Beth Mooney&nbsp;(Retained 2.5 Cr),&nbsp;Sophie Devine&nbsp;(2 Cr),&nbsp;Renuka Singh&nbsp;(60 Lakh),&nbsp;Bharti Fulmali&nbsp;(RTM 70 Lakh),&nbsp;Titas Sadhu&nbsp;(30 Lakh),&nbsp;Kashvee Gautam&nbsp;(RTM 65 Lakh),&nbsp;Kanika Ahuja&nbsp;(30 Lakh),&nbsp;Tanuja Kanwar&nbsp;(45 Lakh),&nbsp;Georgia Wareham&nbsp;(1 Cr),&nbsp;Anushka Sharma&nbsp;(45 Lakh),&nbsp;Happy Kumari&nbsp;(10 Lakh), Kim Garth (50 Lakh),&nbsp;Yastika Bhatia&nbsp;(50 Lakh),&nbsp;Shivani Singh&nbsp;(10 Lakh), Danni Wyatt-Hodge (50 Lakh),&nbsp;Rajeshwari Gayakwad&nbsp;(40 Lakh) and Ayushi Soni&nbsp;(30 Lakh)&nbsp;UP Warriorz:&nbsp;Shweta Sehrawat&nbsp;(Retained 50 Lakh), Deepti Sharma (RTM 3.2 Cr),&nbsp;Sophie Ecclestone&nbsp;(RTM 85 Lakh),&nbsp;Meg Lanning&nbsp;(1.9 Cr),&nbsp;Phoebe Litchfield&nbsp;(1.2 Cr),&nbsp;Kiran Navgire&nbsp;(RTM 60 Lakh),&nbsp;Harleen Deol&nbsp;(50 Lakh),&nbsp;Kranti Goud&nbsp;(RTM 50 Lakh), Asha Sobhana (1.1 Crore),&nbsp;Deandra Dottin&nbsp;(80 Lakh), Shikha Pandey (2.4 Crore), Shipra Giri (10 Lakh),&nbsp;Simran Shaikh&nbsp;(10 Lakh),&nbsp;Tara Norris&nbsp;(10 Lakh),&nbsp;Chloe Tryon&nbsp;(30 Lakh),&nbsp;Suman Meena&nbsp;(10 Lakh),&nbsp;G Trisha&nbsp;(10 Lakh) and&nbsp;Pratika Rawal&nbsp;(50 Lakh)

Indian all-rounder Deepti Sharma became the costliest signing of the day after UP Warriorz used their Right to Match (RTM) card to bring her back for INR 3.20 crore. 

The Women’s Premier League (WPL) 2026 mega auction took place in New Delhi on Thursday (Nov 27) with 277 players competing for 73 spots. Deepti Sharma became the costliest signing of the day after UP Warriorz used their Right to Match (RTM) card to bring her back for INR 3.20 crore. This signing also made her the second-most expensive Indian player in the auction and also the first one to be retained through RTM. Mumbai Indians spent INR 3 crore to sign New Zealand all-rounder Amelia Kerr again, even though they had released her before the auction. She became the second-most expensive overseas player. One of the biggest shocks came right at the start of the auction when Australian captain Alyssa Healy went unsold. Another Australian player, Alana King, also did not receive any bids, even during the accelerated round. Also Read - Ashes 2025-26: Cummins misses as Australia name unchanged 14-man squad for Brisbane Test WPL 2026: Complete squads for all teams Here's a look at the complete squads of all teams after Women's Premier League 2026 mega auction which took place on Thursday (Nov 27) in New Delhi: Mumbai Indians: Nat Sciver-Brunt (Retained 3.5 Cr), Harmanpreet Kaur (Retained 2.5 Cr), Hayley Mathews (Retained 1.75 Cr), Amanjot Kaur (Retained 1 Cr), G Kamalini (Retained 50 Lakh), Amelia Kerr (3 Cr), Shabnim Ismail (60 Lakh), Sanskriti Gupta (20 Lakh), Sajeevan Sajana (75 Lakh), Triveni Vasistha (20 Lakh), Nalla Reddy (10 Lakh), Saika Ishaque (30 Lakh), Rahila Firdous (10 Lakh), Nicola Carey (30 Lakh), Poonam Khemnar (10 Lakh) and Milly Illingworth (10 Lakh) Delhi Capitals: Jemimah Rodrigues (Retained 2.2 Cr), Shafali Verma (Retained 2.2 Cr), Annabel Sutherland (Retained 2.2 Cr), Marizanne Kapp (Retained 2.2 Cr), Niki Prasad (Retained 50 Lakh), Laura Wolvaardt (1.1 Cr), Chinelle Henry (1.3 Cr), Sree Charani (1.3 Cr), Sneh Rana (50 Lakh), Lizelee Lee (30 Lakh), Deeya Yadav (10 Lakh), Taniyaa Bhatia (30 Lakh), Mamatha Madiwala (10 Lakh), Nandani Sharma (20 Lakh), Lucy Hamilton (10 Lakh) and Minnu Mani (40 Lakh) Royal Challengers Bengaluru: Smriti Mandhana (Retained 3.5 Cr), Richa Ghosh (Retained 2.75 Cr), Ellyse Perry (Retained 2 Cr), Shreyanka Patil (Retained 60 Lakh), Georgia Voll (60 Lakh), Nadine de Klerk (65 Lakh), Radha Yadav (65 Lakh), Lauren Bell (90 Lakh), Linsey Smith (30 Lakh), Prema Rawat (RTM 20 Lakh), Arundathi Reddy (75 Lakh), Pooja Vastrakar (85 Lakh), Grace Harris (75 Lakh), Gautami Naik (10 Lakh), Prathyoosha Kumar (10 Lakh) and D Hemalatha (30 Lakh) Gujarat Giants: Ashleigh Gardner (Retained 3.5 Cr), Beth Mooney (Retained 2.5 Cr), Sophie Devine (2 Cr), Renuka Singh (60 Lakh), Bharti Fulmali (RTM 70 Lakh), Titas Sadhu (30 Lakh), Kashvee Gautam (RTM 65 Lakh), Kanika Ahuja (30 Lakh), Tanuja Kanwar (45 Lakh), Georgia Wareham (1 Cr), Anushka Sharma (45 Lakh), Happy Kumari (10 Lakh), Kim Garth (50 Lakh), Yastika Bhatia (50 Lakh), Shivani Singh (10 Lakh), Danni Wyatt-Hodge (50 Lakh), Rajeshwari Gayakwad (40 Lakh) and Ayushi Soni (30 Lakh) UP Warriorz: Shweta Sehrawat (Retained 50 Lakh), Deepti Sharma (RTM 3.2 Cr), Sophie Ecclestone (RTM 85 Lakh), Meg Lanning (1.9 Cr), Phoebe Litchfield (1.2 Cr), Kiran Navgire (RTM 60 Lakh), Harleen Deol (50 Lakh), Kranti Goud (RTM 50 Lakh), Asha Sobhana (1.1 Crore), Deandra Dottin (80 Lakh), Shikha Pandey (2.4 Crore), Shipra Giri (10 Lakh), Simran Shaikh (10 Lakh), Tara Norris (10 Lakh), Chloe Tryon (30 Lakh), Suman Meena (10 Lakh), G Trisha (10 Lakh) and Pratika Rawal (50 Lakh)

Indian all-rounder Deepti Sharma became the costliest signing of the day after UP Warriorz used their Right to Match (RTM) card to bring her back for INR 3.20 crore.&nbsp;

WPL 2026: How teams stack up after auction - Check full squads of all five franchises