Chennai Super Kings (CSK) have suffered a major setback just days before the start of IPL 2026, with Australian pacer Nathan Ellis ruled out of the entire season due to a hamstring injury. The 31-year-old was expected to play a key role in CSK’s bowling attack, especially in the death overs, after being retained for ₹2 crore.

Ellis was seen as a crucial figure following the departure of Matheesha Pathirana, with his variations and calmness under pressure making him an ideal fit for Chepauk conditions. His absence now leaves a noticeable gap in the squad, particularly in the final overs where matches are often decided.

Currently, CSK’s overseas pace options include Matt Henry, Jamie Overton and Zak Foulkes, but the franchise is likely to bring in a replacement to strengthen their bowling unit. With the opening game against Rajasthan Royals (RR) scheduled for March 30, the team will need to act quickly to ensure the new addition is ready to slot in.

3 strong replacement options for Nathan Ellis CSK could consider

With Ellis sidelined, CSK have a few interesting options to explore – each offering a different skill set depending on what the team prioritizes.

Gerald Coetzee

Gerald Coetzee stands out as a high-impact option. The South African pacer has already proven himself on big stages, finishing as his country’s leading wicket-taker in the 2023 ODI World Cup. His pace and aggression make him a wicket-taking threat at any stage of the game. What works in his favour is his familiarity with the Super Kings setup through SA20, which means he can adapt quickly to the team environment.

While injuries have interrupted his recent progress, his performances in international cricket suggest he can be a game-changer.

Ottneil Baartman

Ottneil Baartman offers a more like-for-like replacement for Ellis. Known for his effectiveness in the death overs, Baartman has built a strong reputation as a specialist finisher with the ball. His performances in SA20 and his role in South Africa’s T20 World Cup campaign underline his ability to handle pressure situations. The fact that he went unsold in the IPL 2026 auction makes him an immediately available option, and his prior association with the Super Kings ecosystem could make the transition smoother.

Spencer Johnson

Spencer Johnson, a left-arm pacer, brings variety to the attack. While his IPL numbers haven’t been particularly impressive so far, his Big Bash League (BBL) performances highlight his potential. With 41 wickets in 28 matches at an excellent average, he has already shown what he is capable of. His recent withdrawal from PSL 2026 has also sparked speculation about a possible IPL opportunity. For CSK, he could be a long-term investment who adds a different angle to their bowling lineup.

Also READ: IPL 2026 – KKR head coach Abhishek Nayar gives big update on Matheesha Pathirana’s availability

Ultimately, Ellis’ absence forces CSK into a quick decision. Whether they go for experience, a like-for-like replacement, or a high-upside option, the goal will be clear -find someone who can deliver in the death overs and maintain the team’s balance.

As the five-time champions prepare to begin their campaign, all eyes will be on how they respond to this early challenge. If they get their replacement right, it could once again prove why CSK are known for making smart, impactful decisions under pressure.

Also READ: IPL 2026 – 3 players who can replace injured Harshit Rana in Kolkata Knight Riders squad

Mumbai: In a joint operation, the Mumbai Crime Branch and the Uttar Pradesh Special Task Force (STF) apprehended Pradeep Sharma alias Golu on Saturday in connection with the firing on filmmaker Rohit Shetty’s Juhu residence. Sharma is the 14th accused to be arrested in the case. He will be produced before a Mumbai court on Sunday.According to the STF, the Mumbai Crime Branch learnt Sharma’s location through technical surveillance and sought help from the force. Sharma, 23, was picked up from Agra after receiving specific information about his location.While speaking in the Legislative Council recently, chief minister Devendra Fadnavis said that Shubham Lonkar, an operative linked to the Bishnoi gang, was identified as the prime accused in the case.According to the STF, Sharma was influenced by social media posts made by the Lonkar gang. He told the STF that a former aide, Shivam Dube, asked him to carry out the offence. Thereafter, Sharma roped in two other Agra residents, Vishnu Kushwaha and Deepak.On Feb 1, Deepak travelled to Mumbai and shot at Shetty’s residence. Police said five rounds were fired outside the building and one bullet struck a glass panel. Last year, on Dube’s instructions, Deepak fired at another individual’s home in Rajasthan on May 28. He was arrested by the police along with the firearm then, the STF said.On Feb 15 this year, the STF arrested Deepak, Kushwaha and their five other associates for the firing at Shetty’s house. The group went into hiding to avoid getting caught by the police.Following the firing at Shetty’s residence, police increased patrolling, checkpoints and preventive action against habitual offenders.Chief minister Fadnavis also informed the Legislative Council that the state sought custody of Anmol Bishnoi, who is currently in the custody of the National Investigation Agency (NIA)..

Smriti Mandhana and Samrat Rana

LUCKNOW: Two world champions from different sporting arenas — Smriti Mandhana and Samrat Rana — were on Saturday named Sportspersons of the Year at the eighth edition of the The Times of India Sports Awards (TOISA) in Lucknow.In a glittering ceremony attended by top athletes and dignitaries, pistol shooter Rana and India women’s cricket vice-captain Mandhana were honoured for their exceptional performances in 2025. Both athletes delivered standout campaigns, dominating their respective disciplines and emerging as the finest performers of the year.Mandhana played a defining role in Indian cricket history, helping the team clinch their maiden ICC Women’s Cricket World Cup title. India defeated South Africa by 52 runs in the final, with Mandhana contributing significantly throughout the tournament. She scored 434 runs to finish as the second-highest run-getter and also smashed a breathtaking 50-ball century against England — the second-fastest hundred in women’s international cricket.Her dominance extended beyond the World Cup. Over the course of the year, Mandhana became the first woman to score more than 1,000 ODI runs in a calendar year and equalled the record for most ODI centuries in a year with five. She also achieved major career milestones, crossing 4,000 T20I runs and going past 10,000 international runs — becoming only the second Indian after Mithali Raj to reach the landmark.Rana’s historic rise in shootingWhile Mandhana shone on the cricket field, Samrat Rana scripted history in shooting. The 21-year-old became India’s first world champion in the 10m air pistol event, marking a breakthrough moment in his career. At the ISSF World Championships 2025, Rana delivered a sensational performance, winning two gold medals — in individual and team events — along with a silver in the mixed team competition alongside Esha Singh.With this feat, Rana joined an elite list of Indian shooting world champions that includes Abhinav Bindra and Rudrankksh Patil. He capped off his remarkable season with a bronze medal at the Doha World Cup Final, underlining his consistency at the highest level.Celebrating a landmark year for Indian sportThe eighth edition of TOISA celebrated India’s sporting excellence across more than 45 categories, recognising performances between January 1 and December 31, 2025. The awards highlighted a year filled with historic achievements, including India’s success in global cricket tournaments, athletics and para sports.The winners were selected by a distinguished jury comprising legends such as Abhinav Bindra, PR Sreejesh, Mithali Raj, Achanta Sharath Kamal, Leander Paes and Devendra Jhajharia.

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NEW DELHI: Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Saturday held a telephonic conversation with Iranian President Masoud Pezeshkian, during which Tehran called on the India-chaired Brics grouping to play an independent role in “halting aggressions” against Tehran amid the escalating Middle East crisis.This was the second conversation between the two leaders since tensions flared on February 28.In a statement the Iranian embassy in India said, “President of the Islamic Republic of Iran held a telephone conversation with Prime Minister of India, during which they discussed and exchanged views on bilateral relations, as well as regional and international developments in light of the continued military aggressions by the United States and the Zionist regime against Iran.”Further referring to India’s rotating presidency of Brics, President Pezeshkian “called for the group to play an independent role in halting aggressions against Iran and in safeguarding regional and international peace and stability.”The Iranian president outlined “the dimensions of the aggression, unlawful attacks, and crimes committed by the and the Zionist regime, emphasising that Iran did not initiate the war.” He told PM Modi that “the aggressor without any justification, logic, or legal basis, launched military attacks against Iran during ongoing nuclear negotiations, resulting in the martyrdom of the Supreme Leader of the Islamic Revolution, senior military commanders, and a number of defenseless civilians, including innocent schoolchildren, as well as targeting public infrastructure,” referring to the strikes carried out under US President Donald Trump’s administration.Pezeshkian further alleged that the US targeted the school in Minab describing it as one of the most serious civilian casualties in the conflict.“US targeted the school in Minab from bases located in neighboring countries hosting military installations, leading to the tragic martyrdom of 168 innocent schoolchildren,” the president said.Pezeshkian also rejected claims by the US that the military action was aimed at preventing Iran from acquiring nuclear weapons.According to the release, he said that in multiple meetings attended by the Supreme Leader, “the late Leader of the Islamic Revolution had firmly opposed nuclear weapons and had issued both administrative and religious directives prohibiting any move toward their development.” He also dismissed allegations portraying Iran as a source of regional instability, asserting instead that Israel has carried out attacks and assassinations “across countries including Lebanon, Gaza, Iran, Iraq and Qatar, under the pretext of maintaining security while fueling unrest.”The Iranian president reiterated his country’s willingness to engage in dialogue with global leaders, including on the sidelines of the United Nations, for verification and oversight of its nuclear programme. He described the actions of the US and Israel as “profoundly inhumane and unethical” and strongly condemned them.The Iranian president also proposed the establishment of a regional security framework composed of countries of West Asia, aimed at ensuring peace and stability in the region through regional cooperation without foreign interference. Further expressing deep concern over the escalating tensions, “PM Modi strongly condemned attacks on energy infrastructure, warning that such actions pose serious risks to global food and energy security, as well as agricultural exports,” the release stated.Referring to his ongoing consultations with world leaders, the Prime Minister also reiterated that “war serves no one’s interest and therefore, all parties should move toward peace as soon as possible,” it added.The prime minister also stressed the need to ensure the security of the Strait of Hormuz and uphold freedom of navigation in the Persian Gulf, given their critical role in global trade and energy supplies.Also read: ‘Condemn attack on critical infrastructure’: PM Modi speaks to Iran president, says ‘shipping lanes must stay open’Earlier, sharing details of the same conversation on X, PM Modi had said , “Condemned attacks on critical infrastructure in the region, which threaten regional stability and disrupt global supply chains.”“Reiterated the importance of safeguarding freedom of navigation and ensuring that shipping lanes remain open and secure,” he added.The prime minister also appreciated Tehran’s support for Indian nationals, stating that he “appreciated Iran’s continued support for the safety and security of Indian nationals in Iran.”The conversation came amid fresh reports of joint US-Israel strikes on Iran’s Natanz uranium enrichment facility. Iranian media said the site was targeted again, though there were no immediate signs of radioactive leakage.Amid growing fears of an energy crisis, India has stepped up diplomatic engagement with Iran, focusing on ensuring the uninterrupted flow of energy supplies and the safety of key shipping routes.The government has indicated it is prioritising dialogue and diplomacy rather than joining any US-led military effort in the region.Earlier, external affairs minister S Jaishankar also spoke with his Iranian counterpart Seyed Abbas Araghchi and “conveyed greetings for Navroz and Eid.”“Our conversation was on the latest developments regarding the conflict and its implications for the larger region,” Jaishankar posted on X.

Sunil Gavaskar in DP World Youtube channel (Screengrab)

Former India captain Sunil Gavaskar has strongly rejected allegations of hypocrisy after his comments on Abrar Ahmed being picked by Sunrisers Leeds in The Hundred 2026 and his reports of attending Pakistani show in Dubai during Asia Cup 2025.Gavaskar had earlier raised concerns about Indian ownership indirectly benefiting Pakistani cricketers through overseas leagues. His remarks came in the wake of Abrar Ahmed’s signing, which reignited discussions around India-Pakistan cricketing ties at the franchise level. However, his stance drew criticism, with some accusing him of double standards, particularly pointing to his involvement in international commentary panels and a reported appearance on a Pakistan-related show.

Gavaskar’s Strong Clarification

Responding to the backlash, Gavaskar dismissed the accusations and clarified his position in an interview with Mumbai Mirror“Yes, I have been on commentary panels of ICC and ACC. The revenue went to all the participating countries from the ICC and ACC, but not from an Indian entity as far as I know. I don’t understand how you can say that I am a contributor since I am not making any payment to any commentator, Indian or any other nationality,” Gavaskar said. “I don’t know about other sports and what they are doing, all I am praying for is that Indians stop paying Pakistanis. If you have noticed, the reverse has never happened for decades, if ever.” he added.

Criticism for attending a show in Dubai

Another point of criticism was Gavaskar’s, but the former India captain Sunil Gavaskar appeared as a special guest on the DP World Dressing Room show on YouTube during the ICC Champions Trophy 2025. During the interaction, Gavaskar reflected on his illustrious career, expressed his admiration for being back in a “dressing room” environment, and shared his views on several current cricketing issues.However, he firmly denied claims of financial or formal involvement on a similar show during the Asia Cup alongside former Pakistan greats Wasim Akram and Waqar Younis, Gavaskar said,”I did not ask nor got paid for the show in Dubai.”

For Shreyas Iyer, the journey to IPL 2026 hasn’t been a smooth one. While his teammates were lifting the T20 World Cup trophy, Punjab Kings (PBKS) captain was fighting a very different battle – recovering from a spleen injury that kept him away from the game for months.

It was a phase that tested him both physically and mentally. Known for his aggressive batting and leadership, Iyer suddenly found himself off the field, dealing with recovery routines instead of match situations. The injury not only ruled him out of India’s successful World Cup campaign but also forced him into complete rest at a time when he would have ideally been at the peak of his form.

“I had lost around seven kilos”: Shreyas Iyer

Opening up about that period, Iyer revealed just how tough it was.

“I had lost around seven kilos and I had to regain the muscle mass,” he said.

The weight loss was just one part of the struggle. Regaining strength, fitness, and confidence required months of disciplined rehabilitation at the BCCI’s Centre of Excellence, under the guidance of VVS Laxman and the medical staff. Every day was about small improvements – getting stronger, regaining rhythm, and preparing for a return to competitive cricket.

“It was tough, but I’m grateful to the support staff who helped me get back on my feet,” he added.

Despite the challenges, what made the phase even more emotional was watching India win the T20 World Cup without him. While the victory brought joy, it also came with a sense of personal disappointment.

“It was wonderful to see the boys win, but there was that tinge of disappointment that I couldn’t be part of it. That feeling is now driving me in the IPL,” Iyer admitted.

That mix of pride and regret has now turned into motivation – a fuel that he hopes will push him and his team towards IPL glory.

Also READ: Will Preity Zinta’s Punjab Kings punish Lockie Ferguson for missing early part of IPL 2026?

Iyer eyes on IPL 2026: Leadership, redemption and a title push

Now fully fit and back in action, Iyer is ready to lead Punjab Kings into what could be a defining season for both him and the franchise. After coming agonizingly close to winning the title in IPL 2025, where they finished runners-up, the team is determined to go one step further this year.

For Iyer, this isn’t just another season – it’s an opportunity for redemption.

Having already rejoined the squad, he has thrown himself into preparations with full intensity. From long net sessions to rebuilding match fitness, the focus has been on getting back into the groove as quickly as possible.

“The preparations have been intense. I’ve been batting in the nets, getting used to the rhythm again. The body is responding well, and I’m confident of playing the full season,” he said.

His return is a massive boost for Punjab Kings, not just because of his batting ability but also due to the leadership stability he brings. The franchise has shown faith in him, and now he has the chance to repay that trust on the field.

Iyer also expressed confidence in the team’s overall balance, highlighting the mix of experience and firepower within the squad.

“We have firepower at the top, depth in the middle, and a bowling attack that can defend any total. It’s a group that believes we can win it this year,” he stated.

Punjab Kings will kick off their IPL 2026 campaign against Chennai Super Kings (CSK) on March 30 in Guwahati – a high-pressure start against one of the most successful teams in the tournament’s history. For Iyer, it’s the perfect stage to mark his return.

Also READ: IPL 2026 – 3 players who can replace injured Nathan Ellis in CSK squad

Iran’s Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps (IRGC) claimed on Saturday that it had struck an Israeli F-16 fighter jet over central Iran, though the Israeli military said only that one of its aircraft had come under surface-to-air missile fire during operations and insisted there was no damage.The competing claims emerged as the conflict triggered by the US and Israeli strikes on Iran on February 28 continues to widen across the Middle East.As per news agency AFP, the Guards said on their Sepah News website, “An F-16 hostile enemy fighter jet belonging to the Zionist regime was struck at 3:45 am in central Iran.”

Israel confirms missile launch but denies any damage

The Israeli military did not directly confirm the loss or damage of an F-16, but acknowledged that one of its aircraft had been targeted during an operation inside Iran.The Israeli military said a surface-to-air missile had been launched at an Israeli aircraft during “an operational activity” in Iran.It added that “no damage was caused to the aircraft,” according to AFP.At this stage, it remains unclear whether the Israeli statement and the IRGC’s claim refer to the same incident, as Israel did not specify the type of aircraft involved.

Iranian media shows smoke in sky, but no verification

Iranian media also circulated an image purportedly showing smoke in the sky and claimed that another aircraft had been targeted, though no further details were provided.According to AFP, the reports did not identify the type of the second aircraft or whether it belonged to Israel or the United States.

Claim comes days after Iran’s F-35 assertion

Saturday’s announcement follows another high-profile Iranian claim earlier this week involving a US aircraft.The IRGC had said days earlier that a US F-35 fighter jet was “hit and seriously damaged in the skies of central Iran.”As per a CNN report, which cited two sources familiar with the matter as saying that a US F-35 made an emergency landing at a US air base in the Middle East after being struck by what was believed to be Iranian fire.For now, the key fact is that Iran says it struck an Israeli F-16, while Israel confirms missile fire but denies any damage.There is no independent confirmation yet that the aircraft was actually hit in a way that caused operational damage, and no evidence has emerged publicly of a crash, pilot ejection or wreckage.