In an exclusive conversation with TimesofIndia.com following his retirement announcement, former India allrounder Vijay Shankar reflected on the emotional decision to step away, the injuries that altered his career, handling public criticism, his love for all-round cricket and why he still wants to continue playing overseas leagues.
Cricket legend Sachin Tendulkar urges patience for young Vaibhav Sooryavanshi, despite his record-shattering IPL 2026 season. Tendulkar advises the 15-year-old to embrace his natural game and develop organically, emphasizing that challenges are part of any career. He believes selectors should manage his progression, encouraging fans to enjoy his talent without undue pressure.
A pre-World Cup friendly between DR Congo and Chile in Spain was cancelled due to health concerns over the Ebola outbreak. Local authorities intervened after health experts warned of potential risks. DR Congo has already altered its training plans due to the epidemic.
Gujarat Titans' Jos Buttler described a frightening safety scare after their IPL final loss. The team bus caught fire due to a short circuit, forcing players and staff to evacuate. This incident compounded their disappointment after falling short against Royal Challengers Bengaluru, adding a bizarre end to their campaign.
Young Vaibhav Sooryavanshi's IPL heroics have ignited a debate on his national team prospects. While some advocate for a fast-track, former cricketer Sanjay Manjrekar urges caution, emphasizing the difference between T20 success and red-ball cricket. Manjrekar believes Sooryavanshi should chart his own career path, free from undue pressure and public speculation.
Royal Challengers Bengaluru secured their second consecutive IPL title, defeating Gujarat Titans in the 2026 final. England captain Harry Kane congratulated Virat Kohli and RCB on their historic back-to-back championship wins. Skipper Rajat Patidar also joined an elite list of captains to achieve this feat, crediting Kohli for his support.
Rasikh Salam Dar's rise from a two-year ban and career-threatening injury to becoming a key figure in RCB's title-winning campaign is a story of resilience and belief. Guided by family, shaped by hardship, and driven by an unwavering dream, the Kashmiri pacer has earned redemption.
Kagiso Rabada secured the Purple Cap in IPL 2026, taking 29 wickets. Gujarat Titans fell in the final to Royal Challengers Bengaluru. This marks Rabada's second Purple Cap. Bhuvneshwar Kumar of RCB was close behind with 28 wickets. Jofra Archer and Rashid Khan also featured in the top wicket-takers list. Anshul Kamboj emerged as a breakout performer.
Young batting prodigy Vaibhav Sooryavanshi has captivated cricket fans and legends alike, with Sachin Tendulkar calling him "truly special" after his record-breaking IPL 2026 season. Sooryavanshi's phenomenal 776 runs and 72 sixes have sparked debate about an India call-up, though Tendulkar advises patience for Test cricket, emphasizing nurturing his natural talent and avoiding undue pressure.
Despite being out of India's T20I plans, Shubman Gill remains focused on improving his game and is open to a national recall. He last played a T20I in December 2025 and was subsequently left out of the T20 World Cup squad. Gill's strong IPL 2026 form, however, has reopened the conversation for his potential return to the shortest format.
Paris Saint-Germain clinched a historic second consecutive Champions League title, defeating Arsenal 4-3 on penalties after a 1-1 draw. Despite an early Arsenal lead, PSG fought back, with Dembélé equalizing from the spot. Missed penalties from Eze and Gabriel ultimately cost Arsenal, handing PSG another European crown and cementing Luis Enrique's managerial legacy.