As the IPL 2026 season approaches, the Lucknow Super Giants (LSG) find themselves at a crossroads. After two consecutive seasons of failing to secure a playoff berth, the franchise has undergone a radical transformation, moving away from past dependencies to embrace a high-octane, pace-heavy strategy. Renowned commentator and former Indian all-rounder Irfan Pathan recently took to his YouTube channel to unveil his ideal playing XI for the Lucknow side, stirring debate by excluding high-priced Australian recruit Josh Inglis in favour of a balanced, domestic-heavy lower order.

Pathan’s blueprint for LSG focuses on maximizing their new acquisitions, specifically following a series of high-profile trades that saw Mohammed Shami and Arjun Tendulkar join the ranks. By moving Shardul Thakur to Mumbai and releasing seasoned campaigners like Ravi Bishnoi and David Miller, the LSG management has signalled a shift toward raw pace and versatility. Pathan argues that the key to Lucknow’s success lies in the synergy between their overseas openers and a rejuvenated Rishabh Pant at the one-down position.

Irfan Pathan shares his firm take on overseas openers and the Rishabh Pant factor for LSG

The cornerstone of Pathan’s XI is the explosive opening duo of Aiden Markram and Mitchell Marsh. In a strategic plea to the ground staff at the Ekana Stadium, Pathan suggested that LSG should prepare seaming tracks to play to the strengths of these international stars.

“I wish Lucknow put up some good seaming wickets… so that the overseas openers find it comparatively easier,” Pathan noted on his You Tube channel, highlighting that a green Ekana could turn their home ground into a fortress for their pace battery.

Following the openers, Pathan slots Pant at No. 3. After a rollercoaster few years, a refreshed Pant is seen as the vital anchor and aggressor. However, the middle order faces a looming question mark: Nicholas Pooran. Despite his loyalty to the franchise, Pooran’s form has dipped since his international retirement, with his recent SA20 2026 stint showing signs of a downward curve. Pathan believes the rise of Ayush Badoni, who recently earned an Indian national call-up, will be crucial in absorbing the pressure if the senior internationals falter.

Also READ: SWOT analysis of Lucknow Super Giants: LSG’s report card ahead of the IPL 2026

Pathan picks his ideal Lucknow Super Giants XI for IPL 2026

The most significant changes in Pathan’s XI appear in the bowling department. The inclusion of Mohammed Shami provides LSG with a world-class Powerplay threat they lacked in 2025. Pathan’s XI rounds out with Avesh Khan and the emerging Digvesh Rathi, creating a balanced pace attack. Interestingly, Pathan opted for a flexible lower-middle order featuring Abdul Samad, Himmat Singh, and Shahbaz Ahmed, suggesting that the team’s depth allows them to pivot based on match conditions.

The Impact Player strategy remains LSG’s ace in the hole. Pathan listed a lethal rotation of Mayank Yadav, Anrich Nortje, and Mohsin Khan. This depth ensures that regardless of the pitch, LSG can deploy 150kmph+ thunderbolts to rattle opposition batters. By leaving out Inglis, a nearly 9-crore investment, Pathan is betting on a structure that favours domestic finishing over overseas wicketkeeping, a gamble that will be tested when LSG faces Delhi Capitals on April 1.

Pathan’s preferred XI for LSG in IPL 2026:

Aiden Markram, Mitchell Marsh, Rishabh Pant, Nicholas Pooran, Ayush Badoni, Abdul Samad, Himmat Singh, Shahbaz Ahmed/ M Siddharth, Mohammad Shami, Avesh Khan, Digvesh Rathi

Also READ: Yograj Singh lambasts Ravichandran Ashwin over remarks on Arjun Tendulkar ahead of IPL 2026

Chennai Super Kings (CSK) fans have been eagerly waiting for clarity on the team’s batting plans ahead of the IPL 2026 season. The five-time champions had a tough time in 2025, experimenting with several top-order combinations that didn’t quite click as expected. Now, captain Ruturaj Gaikwad has given a clear update that has created buzz around the Yellow Army’s new look.

Speaking on the sidelines of the IPL captains’ meet, Ruturaj confirmed that he will return to the top of the order and open the innings alongside the newly acquired Sanju Samson. This marks a fresh start for CSK’s powerplay strategy, moving away from the experiments of the previous season.

CSK look to strengthen their top order for IPL 2026

Ruturaj is known for his elegant strokeplay and ability to build innings with consistency. He has been a reliable performer for CSK over the years and thrives when given the responsibility at the top. Bringing him back as an opener allows him to set the tone right from the first ball.

Samson, on the other hand, brings explosive power and fearless batting. He had a strong showing as an opener in recent international cricket, including the T20 World Cup 2026. Samson’s ability to hit big shots and accelerate quickly complements Ruturaj’s more measured approach perfectly. One provides classy shots while the other adds raw aggression, and together they can put early pressure on opposition bowlers.

This combination also gives CSK flexibility in the middle order. Youngster Ayush Mhatre, who impressed with his aggressive starts in 2025, is likely to slot in at number three. Players like Dewald Brevis and Shivam Dube can then strengthen the middle order, with MS Dhoni expected to play his finisher role lower down. The idea seems to be building a balanced lineup that mixes experience with youthful energy.

Former CSK spinner Ravichandran Ashwin had earlier spoken in favour of this pairing, highlighting the “pedigree” both batters bring and how their different styles can trouble bowling attacks.

Also READ: Aakash Chopra predicts CSK’s probable XI for IPL 2026

What went wrong in 2025 and the need for change

Last season was challenging for Chennai Super Kings. The team tried multiple options at the top, including Rachin Ravindra and others, while Ruturaj himself batted at number three for parts of the campaign. While some youngsters showed promise, the top order often failed to give strong starts consistently.

By trading for Samson (in a deal that involved outgoing players like Ravindra Jadeja and Sam Curran), CSK have brought in a proven T20 batter who can handle the opening role with confidence. Ruturaj’s decision to open again shows the captain’s willingness to lead from the front and fix the areas that hurt the team last year.

This move signals that CSK are keen to play a more proactive and aggressive brand of cricket in the powerplay. In T20 cricket, a solid yet attacking opening pair can make a huge difference, especially at venues like Chepauk, where early momentum matters.

CSK will begin their IPL 2026 campaign against Rajasthan Royals on March 30, where the new opening pair of Ruturaj Gaikwad and Sanju Samson is expected to be in focus.

Also READ: At what price did CSK sign Spencer Johnson as a replacement for Nathan Ellis in IPL 2026?

The Indian Premier League (IPL) has entered a new stratosphere of financial dominance following the landmark acquisition of the Royal Challengers Bengaluru (RCB). In a deal that has sent shockwaves through the global sports market, a high-powered consortium led by the Aditya Birla Group completed a 100% buyout of the franchise for a staggering $1.78 billion (approximately ₹16,700 crore). This historic transaction not only crowns RCB as the most expensive franchise in IPL history but also signals a seismic shift in how premier sporting assets are valued in India.

The acquisition, which includes both the men’s IPL team and the reigning Women’s Premier League (WPL) champion side, was finalized in March 2026. The winning consortium brings together a formidable blend of Indian industrial heritage and global private equity, featuring the Aditya Birla Group, Blackstone, David Blitzer’s Bolt Ventures, and the Times of India Group. Under the new leadership, Aryaman Vikram Birla, a former professional cricketer and director at the Aditya Birla Group, is set to take the helm as Chairman.

Vijay Mallya shares his views on RCB’s record-breaking ₹16,700 crore pact

Reacting to the news from the UK, the franchise’s founding father, Vijay Mallya, took to social media to reflect on the team’s meteoric rise. Mallya, who originally purchased the franchise in 2008 for ₹450 crore ($111.6 million), noted with a sense of ‘immense gratification’ how his initial investment has grown nearly 37 times over 18 years. He recalled the scepticism he faced during the league’s inception, noting that many critics dismissed his bid as a mere ‘vanity project.’

“I would like to heartily congratulate the new owners of RCB. I wish them the very best and Godspeed with the most valuable IPL franchise. When I bought the franchise in 2008 for INR 450 crores, most people laughed at me and criticised my investment as a vanity project. Behind my much touted madnesses was building the Royal Challenge brand and hence I named the franchise RCB. Immensely gratifying to see my INR 450 crore investment grow to INR 16,500 crores. RCB will always remain a part of my DNA with indelible memories including picking the young Virat Kohli who is now amongst the best in the World. To all RCB fans who came on board during my stewardship and beyond, a grateful thank you and please continue to support RCB the Lion of Bengaluru. Namaskara,” Mallya posted on X.

He emphasized that the franchise remains part of his “DNA,” particularly highlighting his role in the 2008 signing of a young Virat Kohli. Kohli, who led the team to its first-ever IPL title in 2025, has become the face of a brand that now commands a premium valuation 15% to 20% higher than other top-tier teams.

I would like to heartily congratulate the new owners of RCB. I wish them the very best and Godspeed with the most valuable IPL franchise. When I bought the franchise in 2008 for INR 450 crores, most people laughed at me and criticised my investment as a vanity project. Behind my…

— Vijay Mallya (@TheVijayMallya) March 26, 2026

Also READ: Consortium led by Aditya Birla Group acquires RCB in record-breaking deal ahead of IPL 2026

A new era of global investment in Indian sports

The RCB deal was the second half of a historic ‘double-header’ for IPL business. Just days earlier, the Rajasthan Royals were acquired for $1.63 billion (approx. ₹15,300 crore) by a consortium led by US-based tech entrepreneur Kal Somani. This group included heavyweights like Rob Walton (heir to the Walmart fortune) and the Hamp family (owners of the NFL’s Detroit Lions).

The sale by United Spirits Limited (Diageo India) marks a strategic exit for the beverage giant, which categorized the sports asset as ‘non-core.’ For the new owners, the appeal lies in the IPL’s resilient brand equity, which was recently valued at over $18.5 billion. With the inclusion of global giants like Blackstone and Bolt Ventures, who hold stakes in the Philadelphia 76ers and Crystal Palace, RCB is expected to transition into a ‘global sporting institution’ while maintaining its deep-rooted connection to the fans in Karnataka.

Also READ: IPL 2026: Who is Aryaman Birla? Meet the new chairman of RCB

Indian Premier League (IPL) has witnessed its most seismic shift to date. In a record-breaking transaction that has redefined the valuation of global sports franchises, Royal Challengers Bengaluru (RCB) have been acquired for a staggering ₹16,706 crore (approximately $1.78 billion). The sale marks the exit of United Spirits Limited (USL) and the entry of a powerhouse consortium led by the Aditya Birla Group (ABG).

This valuation officially makes RCB the most expensive team in the history of the league, surpassing the previous benchmarks set during the 2021 expansion. The consortium represents a formidable blend of industrial might and financial expertise, featuring Blackstone’s BXPE, David Blitzer’s Bolt Ventures, and the Times of India Group. As the ink dries on this all-cash deal, the primary concern for the ‘12th Man’, RCB’s fiercely loyal fanbase hasn’t been about the balance sheets, but rather the soul of the team: its name.

Ananya Birla breaks silence on RCB name change rumours after ₹16,700 crore deal

Whenever a legacy brand changes hands, rebranding is usually the first item on the corporate agenda. However, Ananya Birla, a key figure within the Aditya Birla Group and a prominent voice in the new ownership circle, has moved quickly to silence the speculation. Taking to social media, Birla reposted a clear confirmation on her Instagram story indicating that the ‘Royal Challengers Bengaluru’ moniker is here to stay.

For fans, this is a significant relief. The ‘RCB’ identity is deeply woven into the cultural fabric of Bengaluru and the IPL. Coming off the high of their maiden IPL title in 2025, the brand’s equity is at an all-time high. To change the name now would risk alienating a demographic that has stuck by the team through nearly two decades of ‘near-misses’ before finally tasting glory. Birla’s subtle yet firm endorsement suggests that the new owners value the emotional heritage of the franchise as much as its commercial potential.

Also READ: IPL 2026: Who is Aryaman Birla? Meet the new chairman of RCB

Strategic continuity of RCB under the new consortium

The acquisition, which includes both the men’s IPL team and the Women’s Premier League (WPL) side, concludes a strategic review initiated by USL in late 2025. While the ownership structure is changing, the mission appears to be one of ‘evolution, not revolution.’ By retaining the name, the consortium, led by ABG’s Kumar Mangalam Birla and supported by the sports-investment savvy of Blitzer is signalling a commitment to continuity.

The deal highlights the skyrocketing trajectory of the IPL as a premier global asset. For United Spirits, the sale represents a successful exit from a non-core sporting venture at a peak valuation. For the Aditya Birla Group and its partners, it is an entry into the heart of India’s sporting economy. As the transition of Royal Challengers Sports Private Limited (RCSPL) completes, the focus will shift from the boardroom back to the pitch. With their identity intact and a fresh infusion of capital, RCB looks poised to build a dynasty that matches its record-breaking price tag.

Also READ: Consortium led by Aditya Birla Group acquires RCB in record-breaking deal ahead of IPL 2026

The Pakistan Super League (PSL) 2026, also known as PSL 11, is finally here, and it’s unlike any edition we’ve seen before. This year, the league has officially expanded into a powerhouse of eight franchises with the addition of the Hyderabad Kingsmen and Rawalpindi Pindiz.

Running from March 26 to May 3, 2026, the tournament is set to collide with the Indian Premier League (IPL) window once again, offering a double-dose of T20 action for cricket fans. However, the 11th season comes with a significant twist: a shift in format to a 44-match extravaganza and a major change in how fans will experience the games.

PSL 2026 to be held behind closed doors

In a surprising move, the Pakistan Cricket Board (PCB) confirmed that PSL 11 will initially be held behind closed doors. The decision, announced by PCB Chairman Mohsin Naqvi, stems from regional geopolitical tensions in West Asia and a subsequent national fuel crisis.

To support government austerity measures and reduce the logistical strain on resources, the PCB has streamlined the tournament to just two venues: Lahore’s Gaddafi Stadium and Karachi’s National Bank Stadium. Originally planned across six cities, the removal of fans and reduction of venues aims to minimize travel and energy consumption. While the lack of the legendary PSL crowd is a blow, the PCB has ensured that the high-quality broadcast will bridge the gap for fans watching at home.

Complete Fixtures of PSL 2026

The 2026 season features a revised group-stage format where the eight teams are split into two groups. Each team plays 10 matches before the top four advance to the playoffs.

Also READ: PSL 2026 to be held behind closed doors amid Pakistan’s oil crisis

Broadcast and Live Streaming Details

• Pakistan: A Sports HD, PTV Sports HD, Tapmad, Tamasha, Daraz, MYCO, Begin
• UK: ARY Digital, ARY Plus, Tapmad
• MENA Region: Cricbuzz (also available on Cricbuzz TV on ELIFE, Switch TV and StarPlay)
• Bangladesh: Tapmad, T Sports
• USA and Canada: Sling TV – Willow TV (sign up here)
• Sri Lanka: Dialog Television
• Rest of the World: Tapmad
• Australia and New Zealand: ESPN
• Nepal: Tapmad

Also READ: PCB considers legal action against players opting out of PSL for IPL

As the defending champions head into the new season, former India opener and popular commentator Aakash Chopra has shared his take on the playing XI of Royal Challengers Bengaluru (RCB) for IPL 2026.

In his latest YouTube video, Chopra analysed the retained core of RCB and built a balanced side that focuses on experience, firepower and spin options, while leaving out one of the team’s young overseas talents.

Aakash Chopra’s probable playing 11 for RCB:

1. Phil Salt
2. Virat Kohli
3. Devdutt Padikkal
4. Rajat Patidar (c)
5. Tim David
6. Jitesh Sharma (wk)
7. Romario Shepherd
8. Krunal Pandya
9. Bhuvneshwar Kumar
10. Jacob Duffy
11. Mangesh Yadav

Impact player options: Rasikh Salam Dar or Suyash Sharma

Also READ: SWOT analysis of Royal Challengers Bengaluru: RCB’s report card ahead of the IPL 2026

Why Jacob Bethell misses out?

Despite Jacob Bethell’s explosive form, including a blazing 48-ball 105 in the T20 World Cup 2026 semi-final against India, Chopra decided not to include the young England all-rounder in his final XI. Bethell was one of the 17 players retained by RCB, but Chopra prioritised team balance and combination over individual brilliance.

With four overseas slots already taken by explosive opener Phil Salt, middle-order hitter Tim David, all-rounder Romario Shepherd and pacer Jacob Duffy, there was simply no room left for Bethell in this setup.

Chopra’s key observations

Opening punch: Salt and Kohli form a strong, aggressive opening pair that can give RCB quick starts.

Middle-order stability: Devdutt Padikkal gets the nod at No. 3 ahead of other options like Venkatesh Iyer for better left-right balance. Rajat Patidar anchors at No. 4 as captain.

Finishing power: Tim David and Jitesh Sharma provide the explosive lower-order batting RCB needs.

All-round depth: Romario Shepherd and Krunal Pandya add crucial balance with both bat and ball.

Bowling concerns: Chopra noted that RCB’s attack might have to work harder this season, especially with Yash Dayal unavailable and Josh Hazlewood likely missing early games. He expects Bhuvneshwar and Krunal to step up with their wicket-taking ability. Young pacer Mangesh completes the pace attack alongside Duffy.

Chopra also made a couple of bold predictions: Kohli as the highest run-scorer for RCB and Bhuvneshwar as the team’s leading wicket-taker.

He gave RCB a realistic 30 percent chance of retaining the title while feeling they should comfortably make the playoffs if the batting clicks and the bowling holds up under pressure.

With the IPL 2026 season just days away, RCB fans will be keenly watching whether the actual playing XI matches Chopra’s vision or if captain Rajat Patidar brings in a few surprises, possibly including the talented Bethell.

Also READ: Consortium led by Aditya Birla Group acquires RCB in record-breaking deal ahead of IPL 2026

The build-up to the IPL 2026 season has taken an explosive turn, not due to on-field action, but because of a heated war of words involving two of Indian cricket’s most outspoken personalities. The controversy ignited when veteran spinner Ravichandran Ashwin shared a blunt assessment of Arjun Tendulkar’s prospects at his new franchise, the Lucknow Super Giants (LSG). This prompted a fiery rebuttal from Yograj Singh, the former India cricketer and renowned coach, who has previously worked with Arjun to refine his skills. As LSG prepares for a new chapter under their revamped roster, the debate over the young all-rounder’s place in the side has become a focal point of pre-season discussions.

Ravichandran Ashwin’s tactical take on Arjun Tendulkar’s narrow path to the LSG XI

Ashwin, known for his deep analytical approach to the game, recently sparked debate while discussing the Lucknow Super Giants’ probable starting lineup for the 2026 season. After a trade that saw Arjun move from Mumbai Indians to LSG in exchange for Shardul Thakur, many wondered if a change of scenery would provide the left-arm seamer with more game time. However, Ashwin was dismissive of the idea, citing the sheer depth of the Lucknow pace attack.

“Arjun Tendulkar khelega hi nahi (Arjun Tendulkar won’t play at all),” Ashwin stated, emphasizing that the competition for spots is simply too stiff. Ashwin pointed toward a formidable pace battery consisting of veteran Mohammad Shami, the express pace of Mayank Yadav, and the reliable duo of Mohsin Khan and Avesh Khan. In Ashwin’s view, with such high-caliber options available, the tactical room to include Arjun, who has managed only three wickets in his five IPL appearances to date, is virtually non-existent. For Ashwin, the numbers and the roster depth suggest that Arjun will likely remain a bench option for the upcoming season.

Also READ: Ravichandran Ashwin slams fan agendas, questions hero worship culture in Indian cricket

Yograj Singh’s blasts Ashwin over Arjun’s omission in build-up to IPL 2026

Yograj, never one to mince words, took serious offense at Ashwin’s public dismissal of the young cricketer. Speaking to InsideSport, Yograj launched a scathing attack on the veteran off-spinner, questioning his right to pass such definitive judgments on a developing player.

He argued that Ashwin should be more mindful of how he speaks about an individual’s career and potential. Yograj remarked, expressing his distaste for experts criticizing players on television, “He should know what to talk about with somebody. Somebody is sitting on the television and talking,’ Oh, he can’t do this, he can’t do that. Who are you? What are you?”

Yograj’s defense went beyond just rhetoric; he provided a technical perspective on Arjun’s evolution. Having mentored Arjun in the past, Yograj revealed that many have been looking at the youngster through the wrong lens. He disclosed that Arjun had previously struggled with a spine issue that affected his bowling mechanics, specifically his arm path.

“He is Sachin Tendulkar’s son; that’s a different story. When he was here, I told Yuvi that all of you are concentrating on the wrong Arjun Tendulkar. He isn’t a bowler, he had a spine problem and his hands come down from 45 degree,” Yograj added, suggesting that Arjun’s true potential as an all-rounder is often overshadowed by the weight of his surname.

Despite Arjun’s modest returns for Goa in the 2025–26 domestic season, where he struggled for consistency in both the Vijay Hazare and Ranji Trophies, Yograj remains adamant that the young Tendulkar possesses untapped talent that critics like Ashwin are failing to see.

Also READ: SWOT analysis of Lucknow Super Giants: LSG’s report card ahead of the IPL 2026 

Arshdeep Singh played a key role in India’s epic win in the recently concluded ICC Men’s T20 World Cup 2026. He led the Men in Blue’s pace attack alongside premier fast bowler Jasprit Bumrah, finishing the tournament with 9 wickets in 8 matches. During the Super 8s, Arshdeep even surpassed Jasprit Bumrah (33 wickets) to become India’s leading wicket-taker in T20 World Cup history. However, former Indian cricketer Irfan Pathan believes that Arshdeep is losing his ability to swing the new ball.

Arshdeep Singh is among the elite list of Indian bowlers capable of swinging the ball both ways. Although we have seen incredible improvement in his performance over the years, he often led the bowling attack in the absence of star bowler Jasprit Bumrah. Pathan notes a trade-off. While his overall consistency has improved, his natural ability to generate swing has diminished, according to the former Indian legend.

Pathan’s Technical Critique: Evolution at the Cost of Swing?

While Arshdeep’s stats remain world-class, Irfan Pathan’s observation highlights a technical shift in the youngster’s bowling. Early in his international career, Arshdeep was known for his ability to swing the ball back into right-handed batters.

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However, as he has evolved into a versatile all-phase bowler, there are signs that he is now prioritizing hitting the deck and executing variations over traditional swing.

How he bowls with the new ball is what matters

We are already aware of Arshdeep Singh’s skills with the new ball, especially his ability to swing it. Despite a considerable rise in his overall performance and accuracy, we haven’t seen much of his swing bowling in recent international games, which is a matter of concern for the Indian team, as that is what makes him stand out.

Speaking about Arshdeep Singh on his YouTube channel, former Indian cricketer Irfan Pathan said, “Arshdeep, who was your highest wicket-taker, has been consistently taking wickets. One thing he will definitely need to focus on is how he bowls with the new ball. Because over the past year, or slightly less than a year, from what I have observed, he hasn’t been bowling much inswing with the new ball.”

He needs to pay attention to it

Going further, the former Indian cricketer said that Arshdeep’s stats with the new ball have slightly declined, which could be a concern going forward in the IPL and India’s upcoming ICC events. “His statistics, compared to before and after the Asia Cup, have slightly declined in terms of new-ball bowling. He will need to pay attention to that and also keep an eye on his economy rate,” Pathan added.

Arshdeep Singh’s IPL form

In recent years, Arshdeep Singh has emerged as one of the finest finds for the Indian team due to his swing-bowling ability and effectiveness in death overs. Speaking about his IPL form, it has been quite impressive. He has taken 97 wickets in 82 IPL matches since 2019, with an economy rate of around 9.

Arshdeep has been consistent for Punjab Kings since his IPL debut in 2019. He has taken 97 wickets in 82 matches for the franchise. He was retained by the Kings before the 2025 IPL auction for ₹18 crore and played a vital role in taking his side to the final, where they eventually lost to first-time winners Royal Challengers Bengaluru (RCB).

He is also India’s leading wicket-taker in T20Is, with 127 wickets in 84 matches. Arshdeep is expected to play a key role for the Punjab Kings if they aim to finish the season with a trophy. Arshdeep Singh will be seen playing his first game against the Gujarat Titans on March 31, 2026, at the New PCA International Cricket Stadium in Mullanpur, Chandigarh.

Read More: Gautam Gambhir gets court protection against deep fake allegations

Identity comes with the trophy, Lucknow Super Giants (LSG) owner Sanjiv Goenka has a clear message for the team ahead of the IPL 2026 season. Last season, the team started its season on a good note, which it could not sustain for a long time. As a result, the team was knocked out of the title race even reaching the playoffs.

For the 2026 Indian Premier League, the team invested most of the purse to rebuild its bowling arsenal. Goenka mentioned that their previous season was mostly damaged because of multiple injuries. But, they concluded the season with some positivity as well.

Identity is still evolving: Sanjiv Goenka, LSG boss

Speaking on JioStar, the LSG owner claimed that the team is still in an evolving stage. So until the team wins the IPL trophy, LSG may not receive the similar respect or affection that a champion team gets after hoisting the trophy.

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“I think the true identity is still evolving. For any sports team, until you win, you don’t receive the same level of respect or affection that comes with lifting the trophy. Yes, we’ve made the playoffs twice, but that’s clearly not good enough. You win some, you lose some, but we have to win our first trophy,” Sanjiv Goenka said.

Goenka wants to see the team performing as a unit

LSG boss further tells that their last year’s performance was more on an individual basis than as a unit. This season, he wishes to see a team game on the ground.

“You can always improve, aspire to do better, there’s no end to improving. But at the end of the day, this is a squad that has everything required. Now it’s about coming together and performing as a unit, rather than as individuals. Last year, there were too many individuals performing. This year, we want to perform as a team,” he added.

A few positive takeaways from the IPL 2025 season

The opening combination of Mitchell Marsh and Aiden Markram proved to be a hit for LSG in 2025. As an opener, Marsh 627 runs in 13 matches, and his opening partner got 445 runs in 13 matches. On the bowling front, it was the emerging spinner Digvesh Rathi who emerged as the highest wicket-taker for the team, claiming 14 wickets in 13 matches.

“The positive was that we won four of our first six games despite most of our frontline bowlers being injured. There were some bold moves, Aiden Markram and Mitchell Marsh opening, which isn’t their usual position, and it turned out to be their best IPL season for both of them,” the LSG boss mentioned.

“Digvesh Rathi came in as a complete newcomer and did well for us. However, we did realise that we lacked a strong bowling core, and we’ve consciously addressed that by building a domestic Indian bowling unit this time. We’re happy with what we have,” he added.

The team, led by Rishabh Pant, will start its IPL 2026 journey on April 1. Their opening match will be against the Delhi Capitals at the Ekana Cricket Stadium.

Read More: Irfan Pathan questions Arshdeep Singh’s bowling ahead of IPL 2026

Kolkata Knight Riders (KKR) make a massive move in the form of Harshit Rana‘s replacement. On Wednesday (March 25), the franchise informed that in place of Injured Harshit Rana, they have roped in Navdeep Saini as the replacement. It is not an ideal like-for-like replacement, as the players are known for their different playing styles.

Ahead of the IPL 2026 season, KKR hit hard when Harshit was ruled out of the entire tournament because of an Injury. Making no hurry, the franchise took time to select a proper replacement to fill the massive void, as Rana is not a pacer now; he developed his batting skills as well under Team India’s head coach Gautam Gambhir.

Navdeep Saini will play IPL 2026 with KKR in place of Harshit Rana

On the other side, Navdeep Saini is mostly known for generating raw pace. The promising bowler was once seen as the next star of India. But, due to consistency, the pacer soon dropped down from the ladder. With KKR, the three-time IPL-winning team, Navdeep would like to revive his form in the 2026 season.

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Raw pace added to the Knights’ arsenal 💜🔥

Glad to have you join us, Navdeep ⚡ pic.twitter.com/KODibQJpqb

— KolkataKnightRiders (@KKRiders) March 25, 2026

In a media advisory, it is informed that Saini will replace the injured Harshit and join KKR for INR 75 Lakh. Before making the signing, the franchise took a look at the pacer through multiple practice matches. KKR arranged multiple practice matches ahead of the IPL 2026 campaign for preparations and in search of replacements.

The franchise completed all three replacements ahead of the IPL 2026 season

Kolkata Knight Riders, the team that looked strong enough to claim the silverware in the upcoming season, suddenly found itself in a turbulent situation because of multiple blows.

Rana and Akash Deep, the two Indian pacers, were ruled out of the season because of injuries, while Bangladesh pacer Mustafizur Rahman got snubbed as per BCCI instructions amid political conflicts between India and Bangladesh. So, the Knight Riders needed to replace three bowlers, and all were pacers.

Yesterday it was reported that uncapped Indian pacer Saurabh Dubey will replace Akash. And now, it is officially informed that Navdeep Saini will replace Harshit Rana. In the place of Mustafizur Rahman, the franchise secured the service of Zimbabwe pacer Blessing Muzarabani.

Navdeep Saini opens his mouth about the surprising move

“I found out last night, and the moment I got to know, I honestly didn’t know how to react. But somewhere, I always felt that the way I’ve been working hard and putting in the effort, something like this was bound to happen,” Navdeep said to Knight Club about his inclusion in the team.

“In a way, you could say it was already in my mind – almost like I had manifested it, to be honest. I knew it would happen someday, but the most important thing is to keep faith in god. That’s exactly what I did, and when it finally happened, it felt really amazing,” he added.

Read More: “Mind is somewhere else”: Yuvraj’s Father exposes Abhishek Sharma’s indisciplined lifestyle