Defending champions Royal Challengers Bengaluru have retained a strong core of 17 players for IPL 2026, entering the season as titleholders for the first time. The predicted playing XI features a blend of established stars and new additions, with Virat Kohli and Rajat Patidar (C) leading the charge.
As IPL 2026 approaches, AB de Villiers reflected on his early impressions of Virat Kohli. Initially put off by Kohli’s cockiness, De Villiers realised it mirrored his own competitive drive. Over time, mutual respect grew, and a chance encounter during a Test match laid the foundation for their legendary RCB partnership, turning initial tension into one of cricket’s most iconic bromances.
Maxime Vachier-Lagrave ranked R Praggnanandhaa in B tier for the Candidates, calling it a “hot take” based on recent form. Despite strong 2025 performances, he cited six months of inconsistent results, saying, “It’s harsh… Pragg would have been at S tier.” He added, “It’s been 6 months and his form has really not been great.”
Former India pacer Lakshmipathy Balaji expressed surprise at Rajasthan Royals' decision to name Riyan Parag captain for IPL 2026. He called the move a gamble, noting the presence of more seasoned players. Balaji believes Riyan's leadership will be a learning opportunity under coach Kumar Sangakkara. He also stressed the importance of consistency for young talent Vaibhav Sooryavanshi.
Rajasthan Royals' performance coach Siddhartha Lahiri lauded 14-year-old Vaibhav Sooryavanshi's exceptional talent, calling him a "freak" with immense potential who lives and breathes cricket. Lahiri also acknowledged the significant impact of Sanju Samson's departure, noting his absence will be felt despite the mutual decision to part ways. The Royals' scouting system was credited for discovering such promising young players.
Royal Challengers Bengaluru returned to M. Chinnaswamy Stadium for IPL 2026 training, with Virat Kohli in focus as he impressed in nets. Some key players were absent, while rain cut practice short. The team faces Sunrisers Hyderabad on March 28, and their fan-favourite ‘Unbox’ event has been cancelled due to scheduling constraints.
The 11th edition of the PSL will bring together domestic and international players, with preparations underway as per schedule.
Sam Billings revealed that former CSK captain MS Dhoni maintained a relaxed team atmosphere, even employing a “Shisha man” in his hotel room. While Billings praised Dhoni’s calm and inclusive nature, the revelation sparked debate. Former cricketer Manoj Tiwary earlier hinted such bonding sessions may have influenced team selection dynamics.
India's men's and women's hockey teams have learned their group-stage opponents for the FIH Hockey World Cup, with both sides drawn in Pool D. The men will face Pakistan, England, and Wales, while the women will compete against China, England, and South Africa. Both teams will play their matches in the Netherlands.
Young prodigy Vaibhav Sooryavanshi, 14, is navigating the pressures of IPL stardom, focusing on his game amidst rising popularity. His career highlight remains a match-defining 175 off 80 balls in the 2026 U-19 World Cup final, a performance that secured India's sixth title and is cherished above his IPL century.
James Foster, previously with KKR, has been appointed fielding coach of Chennai Super Kings ahead of the Indian Premier League 2026. The former England national cricket team wicketkeeper joins the coaching staff led by Stephen Fleming alongside Michael Hussey and Eric Simmons. Foster brings international and franchise coaching experience, including a recent International League T20 title with Desert Vipers.
Former cricketer Aakash Chopra has raised concerns for Gujarat Titans ahead of IPL 2026, citing an over-reliance on their top-order batsmen. He specifically highlighted Jos Buttler's recent "pedestrian" form, noting that if both openers don't consistently perform, it could significantly impact the team's performance, despite their playoff run last season.