The high-octane atmosphere of the 2026 Indian Premier League (IPL) kicked off with a historic bang at the Wankhede Stadium on Sunday. While the Mumbai Indians (MI) finally managed to exorcise their decade-long opening match demons against the Kolkata Knight Riders (KKR), the real post-match conversation shifted from the scoreboard to a heartwarming, protective moment involving the Pandya family.

Mahieka Sharma steps in to guard Hardik Pandya’s 5-year-old from cameras outside Wankhede Stadium

As the dust settled on Mumbai’s thrilling victory, the focus turned toward the stadium exits where Mahieka Sharma, girlfriend of MI skipper Hardik Pandya, was spotted navigating a swarm of photographers. Accompanied by Pandya’s five-year-old son, Agastya, Mahieka found herself at the center of a paparazzi whirlwind.

The young Agastya, visibly overwhelmed by the bright lights and the crush of the crowd, was quickly tucked under Mahieka’s protective wing. Displaying a calm but firm demeanor, Mahieka urged the gathering media professionals to douse their flashes and provide the child with some breathing room.

“Sir, Agastya ke sath hoon, thoda side dijiye (Sir, I am with Agastya, please move aside),” she was heard saying, prioritizing the child’s comfort over the media spectacle. The video of the encounter quickly went viral, with fans praising Mahieka for her maternal instincts and her ability to handle the intense scrutiny that comes with being part of India’s most high-profile cricketing family. In an era where paparazzi culture often crosses boundaries, the moment served as a poignant reminder of the need for privacy for the league’s youngest spectators.

Here’s the video:

Also READ: MI Coach Mahela Jayawardene explains why Suryakumar Yadav played as impact player in IPL 2026 clash against KKR

Mumbai Indians shatter the 13-year opening match jinx

On the field, the narrative was equally dramatic. For the first time since 2012, the Mumbai Indians started their campaign with a ‘W,’ ending a staggering 13-year streak of opening-day losses. Facing a formidable KKR side, the Pandya-led squad pulled off a clinical chase that sent a clear message to the rest of the league.

KKR set a daunting target of 221, a score that usually guarantees safety. However, the Wankhede deck proved to be a batter’s paradise. The MI response was spearheaded by a vintage performance from Rohit Sharma, who smashed 78 off just 38 deliveries. He was perfectly complemented by the explosive Ryan Rickelton, whose 81 off 43 balls dismantled the KKR bowling attack.

The chase was wrapped up in 19.1 overs, marking a six-wicket victory that felt like a weight being lifted off the franchise’s shoulders. While the batters grabbed the headlines, it was Shardul Thakur who earned the Player of the Match honours. His crucial three-wicket haul in the middle overs ensured KKR didn’t post a target beyond even Mumbai’s reach.

As MI prepares for their next encounter, the win provides a massive psychological boost, proving that under Pandya’s leadership, the team is ready to rewrite its own history, both on the field and in how they protect their own off it.

Also READ: Fans erupt as Rohit Sharma, Ryan Rickelton guide MI to record-breaking win over KKR in IPL 2026

Equity benchmark indices Sensex and Nifty ended the last trading session of the 2025-26 financial year sharply lower on Monday, as the ongoing war in West Asia and rising crude oil prices kept investor sentiment under pressure.Weak cues from Asian markets and continued foreign fund outflows further dragged domestic equities.Extending losses for the second straight session, the 30-share BSE Sensex plunged 1,635.67 points or 2.22 per cent to settle at 71,947.55. During the day, it dropped 1,809.09 points or 2.45 per cent to 71,774.13.Here are the top gainers and losers of the day:

Nifty50 top gainers:

Nifty50 top losers:

BSE Sensex top gainers:

BSE Sensex top losers:

The broader market also reflected the sharp sell-off, with 3,563 stocks declining, 876 advancing and 154 remaining unchanged on the BSE.The 50-share NSE Nifty slumped 488.20 points or 2.14 per cent to close at 22,331.40.“The downturn was primarily driven by escalating geopolitical tensions in the Middle East, which dashed hopes of de-escalation and pushed crude oil prices higher, raising concerns over inflation and macro stability for oil-importing economies like India.“Weak global cues, including declines across Asian and US markets, coupled with continued foreign institutional outflows and a weakening rupee, further weighed on sentiment,” Ajit Mishra, SVP, Research, Religare Broking Ltd, said, PTI quoted.Brent crude, the global oil benchmark, jumped 2.18 per cent to $115.1 per barrel. In the last two trading sessions, the Sensex has fallen 3,325.9 points or 4.41 per cent, while the Nifty has dropped 975.05 points or 4.18 per cent.For the full 2025-26 financial year, the Sensex declined 5,467.37 points or 7 per cent, and the Nifty fell 1,187.95 points or 5 per cent.Broader markets also came under pressure, with the BSE MidCap Select index falling 3.13 per cent and the SmallCap Select index declining 2.14 per cent.All sectoral indices ended in the red, with auto, FMCG, consumer durables, capital goods, realty, private banks and PSU banks dropping between 2 per cent and 4 per cent.The BSE PSU Bank index plunged 4.60 per cent, followed by MidSmall Private Banks Quality Tilt (3.96 per cent), Bankex (3.80 per cent), Financial Services (3.46 per cent), Private Banks (3.43 per cent), BSE Top 10 Banks (3.40 per cent), Telecommunication (3.09 per cent) and Realty (3.03 per cent).“Banking stocks were among the key laggards following the RBI’s new restrictions on banks’ foreign exchange positions aimed at stabilising the rupee, which led to sharp declines across major private and public sector lenders.“While valuations now appear more favourable after the recent correction, the trajectory of earnings revisions remains the key determinant of market direction. Continued volatility in oil prices and rupee weakness may exert pressure on input costs, increasing the risk of near-term earnings downgrades,” Vinod Nair, Head of Research, Geojit Investments Limited, said.Meanwhile, the rupee gained 7 paise in a volatile session to close at 94.78 (provisional) against the US dollar, after hitting an all-time intra-day low of 95.22.In Asian markets, South Korea’s Kospi and Japan’s Nikkei 225 plunged nearly 3 per cent, while Hong Kong’s Hang Seng index also ended lower. Shanghai’s SSE Composite index closed in positive territory.Markets in Europe were trading marginally higher, while US markets had ended sharply lower on Friday, with the Nasdaq Composite down 2.15 per cent, the Dow Jones Industrial Average losing 1.73 per cent and the S&P 500 declining 1.67 per cent.“Indian equities extended their decline, with benchmark indices falling over 2 per cent, underscoring a deepening sell-off sentiment driven by persistent global uncertainties and rising crude oil prices,” Hariprasad K, Research Analyst and Founder, Livelong Wealth, said.Foreign Institutional Investors (FIIs) offloaded equities worth Rs 4,367.30 crore on Friday, while Domestic Institutional Investors (DIIs) bought stocks worth Rs 3,566.15 crore, as per exchange data.Foreign investors have pulled out Rs 1.14 lakh crore (about $12.3 billion) from domestic equities in March, marking the worst monthly outflow, amid escalating tensions in West Asia, a weakening rupee and concerns over elevated crude oil prices.

Iran has rejected any suggestion that it is engaging in mediation efforts hosted by Pakistan, insisting it has not taken part in any such diplomatic initiative even as pressure mounts to end the escalating conflict in the region.In a statement posted by the Consulate General of Iran in Mumbai, Tehran’s foreign ministry spokesperson said there were “no direct talks” with the United States, accusing Washington of making “excessive, unreasonable demands via intermediaries”. The spokesperson added that Pakistan’s diplomatic forums were “their own” and made clear: “We didn’t participate.”The remarks come as Pakistan positions itself as a potential mediator in the widening conflict between Iran, the United States and Israel. Islamabad had announced plans to host talks in the coming days, but there has been no formal confirmation from either Tehran or Washington. Iran’s response appears to cast doubt on the credibility of those efforts, even as regional calls for de-escalation grow louder.The diplomatic confusion has unfolded against a backdrop of intensifying military action. The United States and Israel have continued strikes on Iranian targets, while Tehran has expanded its retaliation across the region. Missiles and drones have targeted key infrastructure, including energy and water facilities in Gulf states, as well as sites in Israel.In northern Israel, a fire broke out at a major oil refinery in Haifa following a strike or falling debris, though it was quickly contained. Elsewhere, Iran struck a power and desalination plant in Kuwait, killing one worker and injuring several soldiers. Gulf nations including Saudi Arabia and Bahrain have also reported intercepting incoming missiles.Meanwhile, US President Donald Trump has signalled both openness to negotiations and the possibility of further escalation. He said talks with Iran were progressing “extremely well”, but warned that military options remained on the table, including the potential seizure of Iran’s strategic Kharg Island oil terminal.The conflict has already triggered sharp volatility in global energy markets, with oil prices surging amid fears over disruptions in the Strait of Hormuz, a critical route for global oil shipments.

Rajasthan Royals and Chennai Super Kings are set to usher in a new phase of their IPL journeys on Monday, but the weather in Guwahati threatens to take centre stage even before a ball is bowled.The IPL 2026 opener between the two sides comes with renewed narratives after both teams hit the reset button following bottom-place finishes last season. However, multiple weather forecasts have cast doubt over how much action fans will witness. While BBC Weather has predicted “thundery showers” through the scheduled match hours, Weather.com has also indicated consistent rain from early evening until midnight. AccuWeather, in contrast, offers a more optimistic outlook, suggesting the rain could clear before the toss, although high humidity is expected to persist.Beyond the uncertainty in the skies, the contest marks a significant shift in personnel and leadership. Sanju Samson will turn out for CSK after leading Rajasthan Royals until last season, while Ravindra Jadeja has moved in the opposite direction, returning to the franchise where he began his IPL career in 2008. The trade, which also involved Sam Curran, has reshaped both squads.Riyan Parag will lead Rajasthan Royals in a new role, while Ruturaj Gaikwad takes back the Chennai Super Kings captaincy after his 2025 campaign was cut short by injury. CSK will also be without MS Dhoni for the opening phase due to a calf issue, and Dewald Brevis has been ruled out of the first game.

On paper, Rajasthan Royals appear to have addressed their balance issues. The addition of Jadeja alongside Ravi Bishnoi gives them greater control in the middle overs, while their pace attack, featuring Jofra Archer, Nandre Burger and Adam Milne, offers variety and pace.Chennai Super Kings, however, have questions to answer, particularly with the ball. The absence of Nathan Ellis leaves a gap in the death overs, with the attack largely made up of bowlers who are more effective in the powerplay. Noor Ahmad is expected to handle the middle overs, but the closing stages remain a concern.Also Read: RR vs CSK Live Score

NEW DELHI: The government has drawn a hard line under its electronics push, pairing fresh approvals worth thousands of crores with a blunt warning: subsidies will not flow to companies that treat India as a factory floor without building design muscle. Signalling a shift from scale to strategic value, Union IT minister Ashwini Vaishnaw on Monday said firms under the Electronics Components Manufacturing Scheme (ECMS) must embed design, quality and engineering in India or risk losing support. The warning comes alongside a fresh set of approvals that underline the scheme’s scale. The ministry has cleared 29 new projects involving Rs 7,104 crore investment, taking total approvals to Rs 61,671 crore—surpassing the initial Rs 59,350 crore target.Vaishnaw flagged gaps in industry response, saying the pace of strengthening design and quality capabilities has fallen short of expectations. “Real value gets captured only if design is done in India,” he said, making it clear that incentives will be tied to deeper technological capabilities.He issued a direct warning that approvals alone do not guarantee funding. “We are willing to stop any further disbursements or approvals if the industry doesn’t come up with the commensurate efforts,” he said, adding, “on applications that have been approved, we won’t even disburse if the asks aren’t met.”The scheme now spans 75 applications across 23 product categories and 12 states, with projected production of over Rs 4.5 lakh crore and employment potential exceeding 65,000 jobs, according to official data. The latest approvals include India’s first rare earth permanent magnet manufacturing unit, backed by Rs 700 crore investment and based on indigenous intellectual property, alongside projects in high-end PCBs, capacitors and connectors—segments aimed at building core electronics capabilities.Even as approvals gather pace, the government has tightened compliance. Companies have been given 15 days to submit plans addressing four key requirements—product design, Six Sigma quality standards, talent development and local sourcing.“Manufacturing is easier; translating design into a reliable product is far more complex,” Vaishnaw said, stressing that Six Sigma processes are “essential” for ensuring global-quality output.In a pointed message to industry, the minister said firms failing to align with the government’s integrated approach risk being “weeded out”, adding he may skip the next review meeting if progress remains inadequate. The ministry also indicated stricter monitoring of milestones, linking future incentives to measurable outcomes in design capability, localisation and quality benchmarks across the electronics value chain.

TRIGGER WARNING: This article contains references to death.The Bengali entertainment industry is mourning the loss of Rahul Arunoday Banerjee, popularly known as Rahul. The 43-year-old actor was shooting for the Bengali television show ‘Bhole Baba Par Karega’ in Digha. According to Anandabazar Patrika, the actor drowned in the sea in Talsari and was rescued by technicians after some time.He was rushed to a hospital in Digha around 6 PM, where doctors reportedly declared him dead on arrival. Preliminary reports suggest drowning as the cause of death, although the exact circumstances surrounding the incident remain unclear.Bhaskar Banerjee, who plays another character on the same TV show, told Anandabazar that the entire unit had gone to Talsari for the shoot. According to him, Rahul went into the sea after pack-up. When he did not return for a long time, the team went looking for him.Actor Diganta Bagchi, speaking on behalf of the Artists’ Forum, told Anandabazar that Rahul had gone to the sea after the shoot wrapped. He added that Rahul was still alive when he was rescued by technicians, but was declared dead after being taken to the hospital.Arunoday Banerjee, better known as Rahul, made his stage debut at the age of three with his father Biswanath Banerjee’s theatre troupe, Bijoygarh Atmaprakash, in the play ‘Raj Darshan’. Since then, he had performed in hundreds of stage shows, both with his father’s troupe and with Theatron.Alongside theatre, Rahul ventured into films and television, gaining his breakthrough with the TV show ‘Khela’, where he played the role of Aditya. He later became a household name with the Raj Chakraborty-directed film ‘Chirodini Tumi Je Amar’.He was also known for his performances in projects like ‘Zulfiqar’, ‘Na Hannyate’, ‘Byomkesh Phire Elo’, and ‘Academy of Fine Arts’, among many other notable works in his career.In recent years, he launched his own podcast, ‘Shohoj Katha’, which received praise and recognition.On the personal front, he was married to actress and co-star from ‘Chirodini Tumi Je Amar’, Priyanka Sarkar. The couple separated in 2017 but reunited in 2023. They have a son, Shohoj Banerjee.

The Indian Premier League (IPL) 2026 season has barely begun, but it has already delivered its first major controversy. Following Kolkata Knight Riders’ (KKR) six-wicket defeat to Mumbai Indians (MI) at the Wankhede Stadium, a pointed remark from captain Ajinkya Rahane has triggered a wider debate – forcing Cricket Australia (CA) to step in with a clarification.

At the centre of the storm is Cameron Green, KKR’s high-profile signing worth INR 25.20 crore, who did not bowl a single over despite MI’s dominant chase of 220.

Ajinkya Rahane’s remark sparks debate as KKR feel the heat

KKR seemed in control after posting a commanding 220/4, but the script flipped dramatically as Rohit Sharma and Ryan Rickelton tore apart their bowling attack, stitching together a 148-run opening stand in just over 11 overs.

With key pacers unavailable and no contribution from Green with the ball, KKR looked short of options. Naturally, questions were raised during the post-match presentation.

When asked about Green’s absence with the ball, Rahane offered a response that quickly grabbed attention: “That question you need to ask Cricket Australia.”

He further added: “Hopefully Green starts to bowl soon, and the combination will be slightly different. We batted really well, but finding that balance with the ball is really important.”

The tone suggested frustration, hinting that KKR might not have had full control over Green’s role. With no sixth bowling option, Rahane had limited flexibility as MI cruised to victory.

KKR’s bowling figures told the story – none of the bowlers could stem the flow of runs and even experienced names like Sunil Narine and Varun Chakaravarthy struggled to make an impact.

Cricket Australia clarifies injury status and timeline

With speculation growing, CA quickly issued a statement to clear the air. According to the board, Green is currently dealing with a lower back injury and is undergoing a carefully managed return to bowling.

“Cameron has a lower back injury which is being managed but requires him to abstain from bowling for a short period. Cameron is currently rebuilding his bowling loads in India with a view to return in around 10-12 days’ time. KKR has been communicated with and is fully aware of this information,” the statement read.

Also READ: Fans erupt as Rohit Sharma, Ryan Rickelton guide MI to record-breaking win over KKR in IPL 2026

The message was clear – KKR were not caught off guard. The franchise had prior knowledge of Green’s limitations before the tournament began.

This injury is not new. The 26-year-old all-rounder has had a history of back issues and even underwent surgery in late 2024. Since then, CA has taken a cautious approach, limiting his bowling workload to ensure long-term fitness.

Green is expected to resume bowling in about 10-12 days, meaning he could miss several early matches as a bowling option. For now, he will continue to play purely as a batter.

The situation also reflects a broader trend. Several Australian players, including Mitchell Starc and Pat Cummins, are being managed carefully due to injuries and workload concerns. CA appears firm in prioritizing player fitness over franchise demands.

For KKR, however, the challenge is immediate. Green was expected to provide balance as an all-rounder, but his temporary inability to bowl leaves a noticeable gap in the lineup.

There is, however, a silver lining. Green looked comfortable with the bat, scoring a quick 18 off 10 balls at No. 3. His presence still adds firepower to the batting unit, and once he resumes bowling, KKR could finally unlock the balance they invested in.

Until then, Rahane and his team will need to find solutions quickly as IPL 2026 gathers pace.

Also READ: KKR captain Ajinkya Rahane questions Cricket Australia’s stance on Cameron Green post IPL 2026 match against MI

Rajasthan Royals and Chennai Super Kings begin IPL 2026 with revamped squads after finishing at the bottom last season. RR have handed captaincy to Riyan Parag, while CSK are led by Ruturaj Gaikwad, who returns after an injury-hit 2025 campaign. Sanju Samson, now part of CSK, is set to open alongside Gaikwad, with MS Dhoni likely to miss the first two weeks due to a calf injury.

The biggest storyline is Ravindra Jadeja’s move to RR. His presence brings balance to a side that struggled with team combination last season. With Jofra Archer, Nandre Burger, and Adam Milne in the pace unit and Ravi Bishnoi supporting Jadeja, RR look far more settled.

CSK, however, face bowling concerns after Nathan Ellis’ withdrawal. Matt Henry and Noor Ahmad will be key, but questions remain over death bowling options. The No.3 spot is also undecided, with Ayush Mhatre, Urvil Patel, and Sarfaraz Khan in contention.

With rain forecast in Guwahati and a fresh pitch in play, both teams will look to adapt quickly. Samson’s role at the top and Jadeja’s impact in the middle overs could define the contest.

NEW DELHI: Bihar chief minister and JD(U) president Nitish Kumar on Monday resigned from the Bihar legislative council days after securing a place in Rajya Sabha, marking an end of era in the state politics. The move has triggered fresh speculation over an impending change of guard in the state’s top post.Now all eyes will be on who takes over Nitish’s reign as Bihar chief minister as both JD(U) and BJP may push for the upper hand in the alliance equation.The announcement, however, may not come immediately going by the remarks from within the JD(U), where leaders have repeatedly invoked a constitutional provision allowing a chief minister to continue for up to six months without being a member of the legislature. The six-month rule Close aides of the 75-year-old Nitish Kumar, along with senior ministers like Shravan Kumar, have made cryptic references to the constitutional window, keeping political circles abuzz, according to news agency PTI. While no official plan has been announced, the repeated emphasis on the provision has added to speculation that a leadership shift is being calibrated.Sources in the NDA, however, suggest Nitish is unlikely to remain in office for the entire six-month period. There is also talk that he could move to the Rajya Sabha early next month, a step that may smoothen the transition.Timing linked to ‘Kharmaas’Insiders indicate that any change in leadership may only take place after ‘Kharmaas’, the inauspicious period in the Hindu calendar that ends on April 14. The timing, they say, could be a key factor in determining when the baton is passed.BJP eyes top post after long waitThe developments have energised the BJP, which sees a real opportunity to install its own chief minister in Bihar for the first time despite being part of the ruling coalition for nearly two decades. With JD(U) only marginally ahead in numbers, the BJP is believed to be weighing its options carefully.Among the frontrunners is deputy CM Samrat Choudhary, who holds the home portfolio. A Koeri leader and a potential successor to Kurmi face Nitish Kumar, as Samrat could help maintain the crucial Kurmi-Koeri caste equation in Bihar. His elevation may enable the BJP to consolidate support among a significant OBC group and counter perceptions of being an upper-caste-centric party.However, some within the BJP point to his relatively recent entry into the party in 2017, after stints in RJD and JD(U), as a factor that may affect his acceptability within certain sections of the organisation.Another key contender is Union minister of state for home Nityanand Rai, a former state BJP president who is seen as having strong backing from the central leadership.Delhi likely to take final callParty sources speaking to PTI indicate that while the BJP legislative party will formally elect the leader, the decision is likely to be made by the central leadership. They point to precedents such as Rajasthan, where leadership choices were finalised in Delhi before being announced in the state.Amid the speculation, JD(U) leaders maintain that the party will seek a fair share in the new cabinet if a leadership change takes place. There is also buzz that Nitish Kumar’s son, Nishant Kumar, who recently joined active politics, could be considered for a key role, possibly as deputy chief minister.