Amid major changes in ownership at Royal Challengers Bengaluru, one name that has quickly grabbed attention ahead of IPL 2026 is Ananya Birla. The entrepreneur and singer is the sister of newly appointed RCB chairman Aryaman Vikram Birla and has become a talking point among fans following the franchise’s high-profile takeover.

With the Aditya Birla Group-led consortium acquiring RCB in a massive $1.78 billion (around ₹16,700 crore) deal, the Birla family’s entry into IPL ownership has brought fresh spotlight not just on Aryaman, but also on Ananya and her growing presence around the team.

A new era begins at RCB with Birla family involvement

The acquisition of RCB marks a significant shift in the franchise’s journey, with ownership moving into the hands of one of India’s biggest business houses led by Kumar Mangalam Birla. The deal includes both the men’s IPL team and the Women’s Premier League side, highlighting the expanding business scope of franchise cricket.

As Aryaman steps in as chairman, the involvement of the Birla family has added a new layer of interest around RCB, with fans closely watching the off-field developments as much as the on-field action.

Who is Ananya Birla?

Ananya Birla, born in 1994 in Mumbai, is a well-known entrepreneur, singer, and philanthropist. She completed her schooling at the American School of Bombay before pursuing economics and management at the University of Oxford.

Despite coming from one of India’s most influential business families, Ananya carved her own path early on, building a strong identity as an independent businesswoman and creative professional.

Also READ: IPL 2026: SRH coach Daniel Vettori shares big update on Pat Cummins ahead of RCB clash

Entrepreneurial journey and business ventures

Ananya’s entrepreneurial journey began at just 17 when she founded Svatantra Microfin, a company focused on providing financial support to rural women. The initiative aimed at promoting financial inclusion and empowering underserved communities.

Over the years, she has expanded her business footprint with ventures like Ikai Asai, a luxury e-commerce platform. In addition, she holds positions on the boards of major companies such as Grasim Industries and Aditya Birla Fashion and Retail, showcasing her strong presence in the corporate world.

Her estimated net worth, ranging between ₹1,000 crore and ₹1,770 crore, reflects her success across multiple industries.

A global music career and mental health advocacy

Apart from business, Ananya has made a name for herself in the global music industry. She became the first Indian artist to achieve platinum status for an English-language single, with her songs garnering millions of streams worldwide.

She is also actively involved in mental health awareness through the Mpower initiative, advocating for open conversations and support systems around mental well-being. This aspect of her work has added depth to her public image beyond business and entertainment.

Growing presence around RCB sparks fan interest

Although Ananya is not directly involved in the day-to-day operations of Royal Challengers Bengaluru, she has been named a principal partner of the franchise. Her association, combined with her brother’s leadership role, has brought her into the IPL spotlight.

Recently, she was seen at an IPL 2026 promotional event where Shubman Gill gifted her a signed jersey, a moment that quickly went viral on social media and sparked widespread discussion among fans.

Many have even compared her potential visibility with other prominent faces associated with IPL teams, raising curiosity about whether she will become a regular presence supporting RCB in the stands.

Also READ: RCB coach shares fresh update on Josh Hazlewood after his arrival at IPL 2026 camp

The stage is set at the picturesque Hagley Oval as the New Zealand Women (White Ferns) take on the South Africa Women (Proteas) in the 1st ODI of their three-match series. This series is a vital part of the ICC Women’s Championship (2025–29), with crucial qualification points for the 2029 World Cup at stake. The hosts enter the 50-over format with high confidence after a dominant 4–1 victory in the recently concluded T20I series.

Led by the phenomenal Amelia Kerr, the White Ferns are a force to be reckoned with at home. Kerr is coming off a record-breaking summer, recently claiming the best-ever ODI figures for New Zealand (7/34 against Zimbabwe). The return of veterans Suzie Bates and Georgia Plimmer from injury bolsters a batting lineup that looked clinical in the T20s. Keep an eye on potential debutant Kayley Knight, whose extra pace could be a game-changer on this surface.

Captain Laura Wolvaardt has admitted her side needs a “massive turnaround” after their T20I drubbing. The Proteas are historically strong in ODIs against New Zealand—winning four of their last five meetings—but they must address a fragile middle order. The return of seasoned campaigners like Marizanne Kapp (if fit) and the pace duo of Klaas and Khaka provides the experience needed to challenge the Kiwis. Sune Luus remains their anchor in the middle, while Wolvaardt will be the prized wicket at the top.

NZ-W vs SA-W, 1st ODI: Match details

• Date and Time: March 29; 6:30 am IST / 1:00 am GMT / 2:00 pm Local
• Venue: Hagley Oval, Christchurch

NZ-W vs SA-W, Head-to-Head Record in ODIs

Matches played: 21 | South Africa won: 9 | New Zealand won: 12| No result: 1

Hagley Oval Pitch Report

The surface at Hagley Oval is historically one of the best cricket wickets in New Zealand, offering a fair contest between bat and ball. Expect the new ball to “hoop around” early on. With the match being played in moderate, cloudy conditions, seamers like Jess Kerr and Ayabonga Khaka will find significant movement in the first 10 overs. Once the initial shine wears off, the pitch settles into a “belter.” It offers true pace and consistent bounce, allowing batters who get through the tough opening spell to play their shots freely. Given the early movement, the captain winning the toss might prefer to bowl first to exploit the moisture and overcast skies.

Squads

New Zealand Women: Suzie Bates, Georgia Plimmer, Amelia Kerr (c), Izzy Sharp, Brooke Halliday, Maddy Green, Isabella Gaze (wk), Nensi Patel, Jess Kerr, Rosemary Mair, Bree Illing, Kayley Knight, Flora Devonshire

South Africa Women: Laura Wolvaardt (c), Tazmin Brits, Sune Luus, Kayla Reyneke, Annerie Dercksen, Sinalo Jafta (wk), Chloe Tryon, Nadine de Klerk, Tumi Sekhukhune, Nonkululeko Mlaba, Ayanda Hlubi, Masabata Klaas, Ayabonga Khaka, Anneke Bosch, Karabo Meso

Also READ: Jess Kerr, Sophie Devine power New Zealand to series-clinching win over South Africa in 4th T20I

NZ-W vs SA-W, 1st ODI: Today’s Match Prediction

Case 1:

• New Zealand wins the toss and bowl first
• South Africa’s powerplay score: 50-60
• South Africa’s total score: 260-280

Case 2:

• South Africa wins the toss and bowl first
• New Zealand’s powerplay score: 40-50
• New Zealand’s total score: 240-260

Match Result: Team bowling first to win the contest

Also READ: Amelia Kerr’s blistering century leads New Zealand to dominant triumph over South Africa in 5th T20I

This article was first published at WomenCricket.com, a Cricket Times company.

The stage is set for a high-stakes 50-over battle as New Zealand Women host South Africa Women for a three-match ODI series. Following a dominant 4–1 victory for the White Ferns in the recently concluded T20I series, the visitors will be desperate to reclaim their footing in a format where they have traditionally shown more consistency. This series is part of the ICC Women’s Championship, making every match vital for direct qualification for the 2029 ODI World Cup.

Fresh off an incredible T20I series—including a career-best 105 off 55 balls* in the final game—Amelia Kerr is the undisputed player to watch. As the newly minted captain, she has led from the front with both bat and ball. The White Ferns enter this series with massive momentum, having swept their previous ODI series against Zimbabwe 3–0 earlier this month.

While the Proteas struggled in the T20Is, they are a formidable ODI unit. They reached the final of the 2025 Women’s World Cup and recently defeated New Zealand by 6 wickets during that tournament. Captain Laura Wolvaardt will look to recreate that success, relying on the memory of Tazmin Brits’ match-winning century against the Ferns in Indore last October.

Schedule of WODI series

• 1st ODI: March 29 – 2.00 pm local time/ 6.30 am GMT/ 1.00 am IST
• 2nd ODI: Apr 1 – 11.00 am local time/ 10.00 pm GMT/ 03.30 am IST
• 3rd ODI: Apr 4 – 11.00 am local time/ 10.00 pm GMT/ 03.30 am IST

Also READ: Jess Kerr, Sophie Devine power New Zealand to series-clinching win over South Africa in 4th T20I

Squads

New Zealand Women: Suzie Bates, Georgia Plimmer, Amelia Kerr (c), Izzy Sharp, Brooke Halliday, Maddy Green, Isabella Gaze (wk), Nensi Patel, Jess Kerr, Rosemary Mair, Bree Illing, Kayley Knight, Flora Devonshire

South Africa Women: Laura Wolvaardt (c), Tazmin Brits, Sune Luus, Kayla Reyneke, Annerie Dercksen, Sinalo Jafta (wk), Chloe Tryon, Nadine de Klerk, Tumi Sekhukhune, Nonkululeko Mlaba, Ayanda Hlubi, Masabata Klaas, Ayabonga Khaka, Anneke Bosch, Karabo Meso

Broadcast and Live Streaming details

• India: FanCode
• New Zealand: Sky Go app, Sky Sports Now
• South Africa: SuperSport

Also READ: Amelia Kerr’s blistering century leads New Zealand to dominant triumph over South Africa in 5th T20I

This article was first published at WomenCricket.com, a Cricket Times company.

The Indian Premier League (IPL) 2026 season kicked off with a high-octane clash as the defending champions, Royal Challengers Bengaluru (RCB), took on Sunrisers Hyderabad (SRH) at the iconic M. Chinnaswamy Stadium on Saturday, March 28. While the atmosphere was electric with the ‘home team celebrating their status as reigning kings, a somber undertone touched the opening proceedings. As Rajat Patidar led his side onto the field after winning the toss and electing to bowl, fans quickly noticed the RCB players sporting black armbands, a poignant gesture that transcended the boundaries of the sport.

Why RCB players are wearing black armbands against Sunrisers Hyderabad?

The reason behind the black armbands is deeply emotional and serves as a tribute to the tragic events of June 4, 2025. Following RCB’s historic maiden IPL title win last year, the city of Bengaluru erupted in unprecedented celebrations. Unfortunately, the sheer magnitude of the crowds led to a fatal stampede outside the M. Chinnaswamy Stadium, claiming the lives of 11 devoted fans.

To honor these individuals, the RCB management and players decided to make their 2026 season opener a day of remembrance. Earlier in the day, the team performed their pre-match warm-ups wearing jerseys emblazoned with the number 11. During the match itself, the black armbands served as a visible mark of respect. Furthermore, the franchise has made a permanent gesture by leaving 11 seats vacant in the stadium, ensuring that those fans remain a symbolic part of the RCB family forever. Captain Patidar noted at the toss that while they are eyeing a second star on their jersey, they carry the memory of their supporters in their hearts.

Also READ: IPL 2026: SRH coach Daniel Vettori shares big update on Pat Cummins ahead of RCB clash

Starting XIs and tactical shifts from both sides in the season opener

The 2026 opener also marked a new era of leadership for both franchises. With Pat Cummins sidelined due to a lumbar bone stress injury, Ishan Kishan stepped up as the interim captain for SRH, fresh off a stellar T20 World Cup campaign. For RCB, Patidar officially began his full-time captaincy stint, looking to replicate the magic of 2025.

The match highlights a significant homecoming for Bhuvneshwar Kumar and Philip Salt in RCB colors, while SRH showed faith in young talent like Salil Arora, whom Kishan described as one to watch. Despite the missing frontline pacers like Josh Hazlewood (RCB) and Cummins (SRH), the clash remains a heavyweight battle on a fresh Chinnaswamy track.

Playing XIs of both teams

Royal Challengers Bengaluru: Virat Kohli, Philip Salt, Rajat Patidar (c), Jitesh Sharma (wk), Tim David, Romario Shepherd, Krunal Pandya, Bhuvneshwar Kumar, Abhinandan Singh, Jacob Duffy, Suyash Sharma.

Sunrisers Hyderabad: Abhishek Sharma, Travis Head, Ishan Kishan (wk/c), Heinrich Klaasen, Aniket Verma, Nitish Kumar Reddy, Salil Arora, Harsh Dubey, Harshal Patel, Jaydev Unadkat, Eshan Malinga.

Also READ: Salaries of all team captains participating in IPL 2026

Gujarat Titans head coach Ashish Nehra grabbed attention with his witty remark while addressing the franchise’s recent trade with Mumbai Indians ahead of IPL 2026. Gujarat traded Caribbean all-rounder Sherfane Rutherford to Mumbai in an all-cash deal, boosting their purse but not bringing in any player in return.

The move once again raised questions about GT’s strategy of trading players for cash, especially when dealing with a powerhouse franchise like Mumbai Indians.

Ashish Nehra’s humorous take on not getting a big player

During a pre-season press conference in Ahmedabad, Nehra was asked why Gujarat Titans often end up trading players to Mumbai Indians without receiving a big-name cricketer in exchange. Responding in his trademark light-hearted style, Nehra said:

“Humare haath me hota toh Jasprit Bumrah le aate. Woh maane nahi.”

(If it were in our hands, we would have brought Jasprit Bumrah. They wouldn’t agree.)

The comment drew laughter and quickly went viral, as Nehra acknowledged the obvious—Mumbai Indians would never part ways with one of their biggest match-winners and India’s premier fast bowler.

Also READ: Gujarat Titans IPL 2026 Full Schedule: Date, Time & Venues of GT matches

All-cash deal boosts GT’s auction purse

The trade involving Sherfane Rutherford was a pure cash deal, meaning Gujarat Titans did not receive any player in return. Instead, the franchise added financial flexibility to its purse, which could be crucial for the upcoming mini-auction or mid-season adjustments.

This is not the first time GT has followed such a strategy. Back in 2024, the franchise had allowed Hardik Pandya to return to Mumbai Indians in a similar all-cash deal, which also strengthened their budget but did not bring in a direct replacement.

Such moves indicate a clear approach, building long-term squad depth through smarter auction investments rather than direct player swaps.

Reality of IPL trades highlighted by Nehra

Nehra’s remark, though humorous, underlines a key reality of IPL trades. Big franchises like Mumbai Indians are unlikely to release their marquee players, especially proven match-winners like Bumrah.

As a result, teams like Gujarat Titans often have to settle for financial gains rather than high-profile player acquisitions in such deals. The comment also reflects the competitive yet respectful dynamic between franchises, where negotiations are driven by team priorities rather than fan expectations.

Also READ: Mumbai Indians IPL 2026 Full Schedule: Date, Time & Venues of MI matches

Indian Premier League (IPL) has always been as much about the camaraderie off the field as it is about the intense rivalries on it. As the 2026 edition looms, two of India’s brightest stars and notorious best friends, Shubman Gill and Ishan Kishan have set social media ablaze with a side-splitting exchange. While fans are gearing up for the high-octane season opener between Royal Challengers Bengaluru (RCB) and Sunrisers Hyderabad (SRH) on March 28, this pre-season captain’s roast has provided the perfect comedic prelude to the cricketing festivities.

Shubman Gill and Ishan Kishan trade playful jibes before IPL 2026

Sitting down for a promotional shoot with Star Sports, the duo’s natural chemistry was on full display. Gill, the Gujarat Titans (GT) captain and India’s established leader in the longer formats, didn’t waste a second before taking a playful jab at Kishan’s new role with SRH. When host Sahiba Bali introduced them, Gill cheekily labelled Kishan as a ‘half captain,’ referencing the fact that Kishan is leading the side in the temporary absence of Pat Cummins. The roast intensified when Gill dismissively added, “I only give advice to full captains,” leaving the room and eventually the internet in splits.

Kishan, never one to back down from a verbal volley, gave as good as he got. Fresh off a dominant stint in the Syed Mushtaq Ali Trophy (SMAT), where he led his side to silverware, Kishan retorted that he certainly didn’t need Gill’s tactical input. He even went as far as predicting a dismal outing for the GT skipper when their two sides eventually clash.

However, beneath the laughter lies a season of immense personal stakes for Kishan. After a stellar T20 World Cup campaign where he amassed 317 runs, the dynamic southpaw is using IPL 2026 as a launchpad for an all-format comeback. With a vacant spot for a second wicketkeeper in the ODI squad and a looming battle with Dhruv Jurel for the Test gloves, Kishan’s stint as the SRH spearhead is his golden ticket. Leading a franchise that hasn’t tasted trophy success since 2016 is a heavy mantle, but Kishan’s recent form suggests he is more than ready to transition from ‘half-captain’ to a full-time national mainstay.

Here’s the video:

POV: You and your best friend are leading your teams in the #TATAIPL 2026! 🤩🏏

The banter was 💯 when Ishan Kishan and Shubman Gill caught up at #CaptainsDay 🤩

1 day to go! #TATAIPL 2026 👉 #RCBvSRH | SAT, 28th MAR, 5:30 PM pic.twitter.com/lO6yKVBVIS

— Star Sports (@StarSportsIndia) March 27, 2026

Also READ: IPL 2026 Squads: Complete list of Indian and overseas players in all 10 teams

Gill’s quest for the orange cap and GT’s redemption in IPL 2026

While Kishan is fighting for a permanent spot in the national side, Gill is playing with a chip on his shoulder. Despite being India’s ODI and Test captain, Gill found himself on the sidelines during the recent T20 World Cup. For the Gujarat Titans talisman, IPL 2026 is about reclaiming his status as the premier T20 opener in the country.

The statistics favour the Prince of Ahmedabad. Since joining the Titans, Gill has been a run-machine, aggregating 2,449 runs for the franchise, including a historic 890-run season in 2023. With opening partners like Jos Buttler and Sai Sudharsan experiencing fluctuations in form, the pressure on Gill to anchor the GT innings is higher than ever.

As the tournament kicks off at the Chinnaswamy Stadium, the banter between Gill and Kishan serves as a reminder of the unique spirit of the IPL. It is a league where friends become foes for seven weeks, and where a half-captain might just end up lifting the full trophy by the end of May.

Also READ: BCCI announces schedule for the second phase of IPL 2026

In an unusual turn of events, Babar Azam has found himself trending on social media—not for his elegant batting, but for a light-hearted mishap during a commercial shoot ahead of PSL 2026. The Pakistan star, widely admired for his composure and consistency on the field, became the subject of online banter after a video showed him dropping a catch during an advertisement filming session.

Scripted catch goes wrong for Babar Azam

The viral clip captures Babar attempting a scripted one-handed diving catch as part of a promotional shoot. The scene required him to leap forward and complete a dramatic grab before landing safely on a cushioned mattress placed on the ground.

However, despite the controlled setup and safety measures, the ball slipped out of his grasp upon landing. What was meant to be a routine, choreographed moment quickly turned into an unexpected blooper, drawing laughter from fans across platforms. The shoot reportedly took place in the lead-up to the PSL 2026, with filming locations spanning key venues like Lahore and Karachi.

Here’s the video:

PEAK HUMILIATION FOR KING BABAR AZAM 😭pic.twitter.com/AsqNPUfL3R

— Cricket Central (@CricketCentrl) March 27, 2026

Fans troll Babar for dropping a catch in the ad shoot

The internet wasted no time in turning the clip into meme material. Fans flooded social media with humorous takes, poking fun at Babar’s “acting skills” while others jokingly blamed the speed of the ball or camera angles.

Some users playfully suggested that even in a controlled environment, catches are never guaranteed—adding a relatable twist to the moment. While a section of fans offered light criticism, the majority of reactions leaned toward good-natured humour rather than harsh judgment.

Also READ: Pakistan Super League (PSL) 2026: Broadcast and Live Streaming details – When & Where to watch in Pakistan, US, UK & other countries

Here’s how fans reacted:

Babar Azam dropped a Catch during an ad-shoot of Peshawar Zalmi while diving on a mattress 😭

Btw i don’t remember When was the last time he took a catch while diving ? pic.twitter.com/UcTrY5dVPN

— SheR•ALI (@Sher__Ali) March 27, 2026

Ohh Babar Azam dropped catch in ad shot of Pakistan Super league PSL 2026.

I couldn’t stop my laugh when I heard background song of this video

Catch by Babro 🤣

pic.twitter.com/zBvmMpOmeR

— MANU. (@IMManu_18) March 27, 2026

Even in a scripted ad, Babar Azam managed to drop a catch🤣😷 pic.twitter.com/3jKPpl4a6N

— @Hayaatzub (@Hayaatzub) March 27, 2026

🚨 BABAR AZAM FAILS NOT JUST ON FIELD BUT OFF THE FIELD AS WELL

Watch how an ad agency employee sounded irritated after Babar Azam dropped a catch while shooting 🤡 pic.twitter.com/BXIEsy2RdX

— Brutal Truth (@sarkarstix) March 27, 2026

Ling Babar Azam is not even able to catch ball in ad shoot with cushion in place & when he knows exactly about the pace & placement of ball😂😭
pic.twitter.com/ivd9KXqewc

— Rajiv (@Rajiv1841) March 27, 2026

Babar Azam suffers international humiliation, unable to catch even while falling on the mattress PSL

2026: Babar Azam’s team Peshawar Zalmi is yet to play its first match in the 11th season of the Pakistan Super League, but before that pic.twitter.com/WntSUVYMEN

— Sarcastic Ujel (@Sarcasticujel) March 28, 2026

Lazza nahi aayi tujhe bobsy🥀 https://t.co/Y9HCpxwZoI

— pecularism (@pecularismlelo) March 27, 2026

Even here he dropped the catch 😂😂😭 https://t.co/s2maOKwGYt

— Jabez Ronald (@jabez_ronald) March 27, 2026

Ad shoot mein bhi catch chhod diya ling babar ne 😭😭 pic.twitter.com/vRUh6WFcJo

— Jo Kar (@i_am_gustakh) March 27, 2026

Video captured by Indian spy? https://t.co/bTFm1B4QbQ

— Bharath R (@Bharath_81) March 28, 2026

Boosebumps 🤣🤣🤣🤣 https://t.co/4fhdLS1R41

— Sunny (@Sunny12901964) March 28, 2026

😂😂😂😂
Zim Babar https://t.co/bow9SPvgs2

— furu here ( join the course) (@awara__octopus) March 27, 2026

Focus shifts back to PSL 2026 campaign

Beyond the viral moment, Babar’s primary focus remains on leading Peshawar Zalmi in the ongoing PSL 2026 season. The stylish batter continues to captain the franchise for a fourth consecutive year, having been retained in the Platinum category despite earlier speculation about a potential move.

This year’s tournament has expanded to include eight teams, with new franchises like the Rawalpindi Pindiz and Hyderabad Kingsmen adding fresh competition to the league. Zalmi are set to begin their campaign against Rawalpindi Pindiz on March 28 in Lahore, marking the start of what could be a crucial season for their skipper.

Also READ: From Carlos Brathwaite to Wasim Akram: Star-studded commentary panel announced for PSL 2026

As the 19th edition of the Indian Premier League (IPL) gets underway, the spotlight isn’t just on the players with the bat and ball—it’s also on the men entrusted with leading their franchises. A graphic circulating ahead of IPL 2026 has revealed the annual salaries of all ten captains, offering a fascinating look at how teams value leadership in cricket’s most lucrative league. From established names who have commanded top rupee for years to young skippers who have risen through the ranks on modest pay packets, the list reflects the diverse paths to captaincy in the IPL.

Here is the complete breakdown of salaries of captains in IPL 2026:

Rishabh Pant leads the pack with ₹27 crore

The salary breakdown shows that Rishabh Pant, who took over the captaincy of Lucknow Super Giants ahead of IPL 2026, commands a staggering ₹27 crore – the highest among all captains this season. The wicketkeeper-batter’s massive pay packet reflects his stature as one of the most marketable and impactful players in Indian cricket. Having led Delhi Capitals (DC) in previous seasons, Pant now shoulders the responsibility of guiding a revamped Lucknow Super Giants (LSG) side that made several high-profile acquisitions at the auction.

Close on his heels is Punjab Kings (PBKS) captain Shreyas Iyer, who earns ₹26.75 crore. Iyer, who led Punjab to the final in IPL 2025, was retained by the franchise as their undisputed leader. His salary places him just ₹25 lakh behind Pant, highlighting the premium franchises place on proven leadership and middle-order stability.

The ₹18 crore club: Ruturaj Gaikwad and Pat Cummins

Two captains find themselves in the ₹18 crore bracket. Chennai Super Kings (CSK) skipper Ruturaj Gaikwad, who took over the full-time captaincy from MS Dhoni in 2024, earns ₹18 crore. The stylish opener has been CSK’s batting mainstay and is seen as the long-term leader of the franchise.

Sunrisers Hyderabad (SRH) captain Pat Cummins, though set to miss the initial matches due to a back injury, also draws ₹18 crore. The Australian pace spearhead led SRH to the IPL 2024 final and remains the cornerstone of their bowling attack when fit.

Mid-tier captains: Shubman Gill, Axar Patel, Hardik Patel in ₹16 crore range

The next bracket features three captains clustered in the ₹16 crore range. Gujarat Titans (GT) captain Shubman Gill and Delhi Capitals skipper Axar Patel both earn ₹16.5 crore each. Gill, who has led GT since 2024, continues to be the franchise’s poster boy, while Axar took over DC’s leadership after Rishabh Pant’s departure last season.

Mumbai Indians (MI) captain Hardik Pandya follows closely at ₹16.35 crore. The all-rounder, who returned to MI in 2024, has the task of adding a sixth title to the franchise’s illustrious history.

Also READ: From Mayanti Langer to Sahiba Bali – Complete list of star presenters for IPL 2026

Lower end of the spectrum: New and unexpected leaders

Rajasthan Royals (RR) captain Riyan Parag, who stepped into the role after Sanju Samson’s trade to CSK, earns ₹11 crore. The young Assamese batter will be leading an RR side that recently changed ownership in a record-breaking deal.

Defending champions Royal Challengers Bengaluru (RCB) captain Rajat Patidar also receives a pay check of ₹11 crore – a remarkable figure considering he led RCB to their maiden IPL title in 2025.

Kolkata Knight Riders (KKR) captain Ajinkya Rahane completes the list with an earning of ₹1.5 crore. The experienced batter took over KKR’s captaincy ahead of last season, tasked with leading the three-time champions.

Also READ: From AB de Villiers to Suresh Raina – Star Sports unveils elite list of commentators for IPL 2026

Just hours before the much-anticipated start of IPL 2026, a heartwarming moment involving Nita Ambani and Rohit Sharma has captured the internet’s attention. A viral video shared by the Mumbai Indians franchise shows the team owner interacting with players during a training session, with her candid reaction to Rohit’s transformation becoming the highlight of the clip.

Nita Ambani’s candid reaction on Rohit Sharma’s transformation goes viral

In the video, Mrs. Ambani is seen walking around the practice area, engaging with players and members of the support staff in a relaxed and encouraging manner. As she approaches Rohit, her reaction is one of genuine surprise and admiration.

“My God, Rohit, I didn’t recognise you. You look like a young boy!” she exclaims with a smile, clearly impressed by the Indian captain’s noticeable weight loss.

Rohit, known for his calm and composed demeanor, responds with a grin, making the exchange even more endearing. The light-hearted interaction quickly struck a chord with fans, who flooded social media with praise for the veteran batter’s fitness transformation ahead of the new season.

Here’s the video:

Nita Ambani to Rohit Sharma : “My God Rohit, I didn’t recognise you. You look like a young boy.”😭❤️ pic.twitter.com/XUPgWSrgtS

— 𝐑𝐮𝐬𝐡𝐢𝐢𝐢⁴⁵ (@rushiii_12) March 27, 2026

Also READ: Mumbai Indians IPL 2026 Full Schedule: Date, Time & Venues of MI matches

High expectations from the star batter in IPL 2026

Expectations will be high from Rohit heading into IPL 2026, especially after his noticeable fitness transformation. As one of the most experienced players in the league, Mumbai Indians will rely on him to provide strong starts at the top and anchor the innings when required. Fans will be hoping to see a more aggressive yet consistent version of Rohit, capable of delivering impactful performances in crucial matches. Beyond his batting, his leadership inputs and calm presence in high-pressure situations will also be key as Mumbai aim to reclaim their dominance in the tournament.

Notably, IPL 2026 season officially kicks off with an exciting opening clash between Royal Challengers Bengaluru and Sunrisers Hyderabad at the M. Chinnaswamy Stadium. Meanwhile, Mumbai Indians will begin their IPL 2026 campaign against Kolkata Knight Riders on March 29 at the iconic Wankhede Stadium. The five-time champions will be eager to start strong and set the tone for the rest of the tournament.

Also READ: SWOT Analysis of Mumbai Indians – MI’s report card ahead of IPL 2026

The Indian Premier League (IPL) broadcast team is set to dazzle both on and off the field, with a formidable line-up of presenters and commentators. From seasoned anchors to fresh new faces, the list promises engaging analysis and vibrant studio coverage throughout the tournament.

Star-studded lineup of presenters for IPL 2026

With the 19th edition of the IPL set to kick off on March 28, the official broadcaster has assembled an eclectic roster of presenters to guide viewers through the two‑month cricketing carnival. The list blends experienced sports anchors with popular digital content creators, ensuring a dynamic mix of expert analysis and relatable fan engagement.

Among the prominent names, Mayanti Langer returns as one of the faces of IPL coverage, bringing her vast experience of hosting high‑profile cricket events. Joining her is former Tamil Nadu cricketer Abhinav Mukund, who has carved a niche as a sharp analyst in the studio. Tanay Tiwari, known for his articulate Hindi commentary, will add depth to the vernacular coverage, while Anant Tyagi features both as a presenter and commentator, offering versatility across formats.

The lineup also includes a strong contingent of female presenters. Bhavana Balakrishnan, Swedha Singh Bahal, Sahiba Bali and Nidhi Dugar will be part of the broadcast team, each bringing their unique style.

Sahiba Bali, a popular digital creator, is expected to connect with younger audiences through behind-the-scenes content and fan interactions.

Also READ: IPL 2026 Squads – Complete list of Indian and overseas players in all 10 teams

Behind the scenes voices

The broadcasters have also recalled fresh talent to keep the coverage vibrant. Sameena Anwar, Suren Sundaram, Navneeth Krishna, and Nashpreet Singh Kaur round out the presenter group, adding regional flavor and youthful energy. Many of these names have risen through digital cricket platforms and are now making their mark on mainstream television.

Beyond traditional pre-match and post-match shows, the presenters will also be featured in innovative digital segments, including interactive fan polls, dugout conversations and exclusive team access. The emphasis is on making the broadcast experience more immersive, catering to both die-hard cricket enthusiasts and casual viewers.

As the tournament unfolds over 74 matches across 18 venues, these presenters will be the voice of the IPL, breaking down key moments, interviewing stars, and keeping millions of viewers connected to the action. Their energy and insight will be as crucial as the performances on the field in making IPL 2026 a memorable season.

Also READ: IPL 2026 Schedule, Broadcast and Live Streaming details – When and where to watch in India, Australia, USA, UK & other countries