Yograj Singh, a former Indian cricketer and father of Yuvraj Singh slammed Abhishek Sharma, accusing for being indisciplined after winning the T20 World Cup 2026. The 68-year-old claims that instead of paying focus on practices, the batter has been doing reels since the team was crowned as the winner of the T20 World Cup 2026.

Most of the cricket fans and experts believed that Abhishek Sharma would have a stellar run in the flagship tournament. Take a step further, some even predicted that the batter could emerge as the highest run scorer as well. The reality is something else. The opener flopped in parts of the tournament.

Why Abhishek Sharma failed to impress in the T20 World Cup 2026? Yograj Singh explained

Abhishek Sharma started his T20 World Cup 2026 campaign with a hat-trick of ducks. In total, the batter scored only 141 runs in eight games at an average of 17.62. In the final, the southpaw smashed a half-century against New Zealand.

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The former cricketer said that Abhishek Sharma failed because he was not focused on his tasks. Instead of maintaining a balanced lifestyle, Yograj stated that the 25-year-old walks around doing reels.

“You fail because your mind is somewhere else. What is happening to Shubman Gill, Abhishek? The failure comes only when your mind is diverted somewhere else. That is what is happening with Abhishek. The guy walks around doing reels, that isn’t his job. He should bloody well go to bed at 9 PM, wake up at 5 AM, and play a thousand balls,” Yograj said on Insidesport.

Parties, girls, money, shooting all the time: Yograj Singh

Yuvraj Singh is the mentor of Abhishek, who helped the emerging batter to develop batting skills. Yograj believes that Sharma will need another age to go closer to his son.

“It would take him another age to go closer to Yuvraj Singh. The whole universe works on discipline. That’s how cricketers should work. Where are cricketers going wrong? Parties, girls, money, shooting all the time,” the veteran said further.

The former cricketer is disgusted with Sharma’s batting approach as well

In the interview, Singh bluntly mentioned that he is very much disgusted with Sharma for his batting approach. Yograj criticised Sharma as he often looks to smash the bowlers for maximums.

“I’m very disgusted with him (Abhishek Sharma). There are times when I drop him messages – don’t take this game for granted. He will always say ‘yes, sir’. There is something called a single, a double, and a boundary. Every time you cannot hit the ball in the air. You cannot keep hitting sixes and entertaining the crowd. You will fail”, Yograj Singh said.

The Indian team management, led by the head coach Gautam Gambhir, backed Sharma heavily during the bad patch. Despite back-to-back flop shows, the management never opted to drop him from the team. The batter paid off the trust by registering the half-century in the final, for the winning cause.

Read More: Jasprit Bumrah Injury Scare, reason behind visit to CoE revealed

The TATA Indian Premier League (IPL) 2026 is just three nights away from entering its 19th edition. All teams are gearing up for the upcoming tournament, which will run for more than two months. IPL 2025 champions Royal Challengers Bengaluru (RCB) will be facing Sunrisers Hyderabad (SRH) on the opening day. Ahead of the IPL, there has been a new rule change.

The rule change has been in place during the game; all the IPL captains have been warned about fielder movement before and after completing a catch. All 10 franchise captains have been informed that the fielder must have complete control of the ball and his body before the catch is considered complete and celebrations begin.

New catching rule in IPL

Clause 33.3 and Page 64 of the Playing conditions state an oft-repeated point: “The act of making a catch shall start from the time when the ball first comes into contact with a fielder’s person and shall end when a fielder obtains complete control over both the ball and his own movement.”

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The rule previously existed for a long time. However, during a meeting of the Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI) on Wednesday evening, captains were shown video recordings of various catches, some of which were deemed unfair.

Impact player rule to stay for two more seasons

At least one incident clearly demonstrated the problem, with officials emphasising that a fielder’s body must be completely under control for the catch to be declared legal. This rule, the teams were assured, will be strictly followed. BCCI head of match referee Javagal Srinath and BCCI head of Umpire panel Nitin Menon addressed this particular section of the 90-minute meeting.

All 10 captains were present in Mumbai for the captains’ photoshoot with the trophy. It was also discussed that the ‘Impact Player’ rule will be there for another two seasons and will be reviewed after the 2027 season. Though many captains have voiced their disagreement with this rule.

Captains not happy with impact player rules

Previously, Axar Patel voiced his concern over the impact player rule, saying that he does not like it personally, being an all-rounder, and pointed out that because of the rule, the coaching staff goes for either a specialist batter or a bowler.

“It was discussed, and it was made clear to all of us that the Impact Player rule is here to stay for at least two more seasons,” said a franchise member who attended Wednesday’s meeting.

During the captain’s photoshoot, they had a fun moment against each other playing with a tennis ball cricket on a closed box turf. The IPL is the oldest running franchise league in world cricket.

The impact player rule has advantages and disadvantages; the rule allows teams to bat deeper, leading to more explosive batting and higher-scoring games. It helps teams balance the disadvantages of batting or bowling first based on the pitch conditions. The extra batting cushion often makes it harder for bowlers to make a difference.

Also Read: “Win our first trophy”: Sanjiv Goenka crowns LSG as champions ahead of IPL 2026

Prithvi Shaw is determined to make a comeback in Team India. Ahead of the IPL 2026, the top order batter revealed how much effort he put in to make it possible. In the upcoming season of the Indian Premier League, he will feature for the Delhi Capitals (DC).

Delhi Capitals again showed their trust in the batter, whose career went down because of a lack of consistency and multiple controversies. Still, he is considered one of the biggest talents in the country. Like multiple cricket fans, DC too has faith in him.

Prithvi Shaw reveals how he has been putting in efforts to make a comeback

Prithvi Shaw, while talking to the media on Wednesday, Match 25, claimed that he has been working hard on the ground during the practice seasons. According to him, he is putting more than 100 percent into regaining his status in the cricket field.

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“There’s no doubt that I have to come back to the Indian team. That’s exactly why I’m playing and why I’m working so hard. The amount of effort I used to put in, I put in three times more today. I don’t usually like to talk about it, but I feel I’m giving not just 100%, but 200% to make that comeback”, Shaw told the media.

Shaw can’t think of offering less than 100 percent on the field

On every occasion, whether it is a practice match or a practice day, the 26-year-old batter aims to give 200 percent on the ground.

“Whether it’s winning a trophy, a match day, or even a practice day—I try to give 200%. If I’m not feeling good, I won’t practice. You don’t get anything by practising at 50%. If you’re on the ground, you give your 100%, or you don’t come to the ground at all”, he added.

As he grew older and more mature, Shaw himself mentioned the things he should not have done in the past. He stated that to understand things, it is better to use one’s own thinking process.

You don’t need seniors or mentors: Prithvi Shaw

“Whatever ups and downs happened, I faced them with respect and a smile. As you grow up, you realise your own mistakes. You don’t need seniors or mentors to tell you what you already know. It’s better if you understand those things yourself beforehand and then move forward,” Prithvi Shaw said.

VIDEO | On the comeback to the Indian Team, cricketer Prithvi Shaw says, “There’s no doubt that I have to come back to the Indian team. That’s exactly why I’m playing and why I’m working so hard. The amount of effort I used to put in, I put in three times more today. I don’t… pic.twitter.com/jgDhq2Iuq4

— Press Trust of India (@PTI_News) March 25, 2026

The Maharashtra-born, who went unsold in the IPL 2025 auction, witnessed his former IPL team, Delhi Capitals, putting the paddle up in the IPL 2026 mini auction. DC secured his service at a base price of INR 75 lakh. Shaw played seven IPL seasons for DC to score 1892 runs at an average of 23.94.

Ahead of the IPL 2026, the batter looked rejuvenated with the Maharashtra cricket team in the domestic matches. In the 2025-26 Ranji Trophy, the opener caught the headlines with an impactful 141-ball double-century.

Read More: New catching rule? Captains warned over ‘Incomplete’ catches ahead of IPL 2026

The Hagley Oval bore witness to a clinical display of T20 cricket as South Africa secured a decisive 33-run victory over New Zealand in the fifth and final T20I. With the series on the line, the Proteas showcased their depth and temperament, silencing a partisan Kiwi crowd to lift the trophy. On a surface that offered decent carry, South Africa’s total of 187/4 proved too steep a mountain for the Black Caps, who eventually withered under the pressure of a disciplined South African bowling attack, finishing at 154/8.

Connor Esterhuizen’s blazing knock against New Zealand lights up Hagley Oval

The narrative of the first innings was dominated by one man, Connor Esterhuizen. Coming in at number four with the scoreboard reading 76/2, the wicketkeeper-batter played an innings of pure calculated aggression. While Wiaan Mulder (31 off 29) and Rubin Hermann (39 off 31) provided a steady foundation, it was Esterhuizen who shifted the gears into overdrive.

Esterhuizen’s strike rate of 227.27 told the story of his dominance. He reached his half-century in just 25 deliveries, dismantling the New Zealand pace attack with a mix of traditional power hitting and innovative scoops. By the time he was eventually caught by James Neesham off the bowling of Ben Sears in the final over, he had amassed 75 runs from just 33 balls, decorated with 4 fours and five towering sixes. His 61-run partnership with Dian Forrester (21 off 13) ensured South Africa plundered over 60 runs in the death overs, setting a formidable target of 188.

South African bowlers choke New Zealand chase to seal series win

New Zealand’s pursuit of 188 started on shaky ground and never truly found its rhythm. The Proteas’ bowling unit, led by the tactical acumen of captain Keshav Maharaj, squeezed the life out of the chase through consistent pressure and regular wickets. Katene Clarke fell early for just 2, and while Tim Robinson (25) and Dane Cleaver (22) attempted a recovery, the mounting required run rate forced errors.

The middle order offered a glimmer of hope when Bevon Jacobs played a spirited cameo of 36 from 19 balls, striking two sixes to bring the equation within reach. However, the South African pace duo of Ottneil Baartman and Gerald Coetzee proved too clinical. Baartman’s double strike, removing Cleaver and the dangerous Jacobs, broke the back of the New Zealand resistance.

The choke was personified by the final five overs, where New Zealand struggled to find the boundary. Wiaan Mulder capped off a brilliant all-round game by dismissing the set Neesham (24) via a successful DRS review in the 20th over, effectively ending any hopes of a miracle. Coetzee finished with figures of 2/21, while Baartman and Mulder also claimed two scalps apiece. New Zealand ended their 20 overs at 154/8, falling 33 runs short and handing South Africa a memorable series triumph on foreign soil.

Also READ: Lockie Ferguson, Tom Latham sizzle in New Zealand’s commanding win over South Africa in 3rd T20I

Here’s how fans reacted:

Why nobody is talking about Connor Esterhuizen? He is a great replacement prospect & with big potential.

Just today, he scored 75(33) on a pitch where other literally batted run a ball. He had 50 in last game also. He can be great replacement for Duckett! pic.twitter.com/G1Mzjl7Vma

— Rajiv (@Rajiv1841) March 25, 2026

Well-deserved Player of the Series award for Connor Esterhuizen pic.twitter.com/d8ZldTtpr4

— Werner (@Werries_) March 25, 2026

This series will be totally forgotten about by the end of the week but Connor Esterhuizen and, to a lesser extent, Dian Forrester and Mokoena have really shown they have what it takes to succeed at the highest level.

— Dale (@ncakos316) March 25, 2026

Most Runs by a South African in a Bilateral 5-Match T20I Series

255 – Quinton de Kock vs West Indies, 2021

200 – Connor Esterhuizen vs New Zealand, 2026*

No other South African has crossed the 100-run mark in such a series.#NZvSA #NZvsSA

— Vishwesh Gaur (@iumvishwesh) March 25, 2026

Connor Esterhuizen has now completely elevated himself ahead of Tony in the T20I space. When the next T20I series comes along he should make that squad. He’s also coming for that Test Wicketkeeping spot. the guy is on a serious mission.#CricketTwitter pic.twitter.com/jV0Kca9cIP

— Lawrence Bailey 🇿🇦 (@LawrenceBailey0) March 25, 2026

SA cricket are blessed with some serious talents.
Bro was called as test players by many crictics but he shut down all by his last 2 innings 🙌🙌.
Bro can open also, bro can play in middle order too.
Connor esterhuizen Remember the name. #NZvsSA pic.twitter.com/8P48B6rwUM

— markram bot (@greekgod2810) March 25, 2026

Proud of you Connor esterhuizen a lot 😍❤️🥰❤️ https://t.co/EX9rKCFKea

— Corbin Bosch (@corbinboschfan) March 25, 2026

Connor Esterhuizen has been SA’s shining light in this series 🌟#NZvSA pic.twitter.com/MDeO7K7Ce0

— ThePoppingCrease (@PoppingCreaseSA) March 25, 2026

Back-to-back fifty for Connor Esterhuizen, this time in just 25 balls 🔥👏#NZvSA #SAvNZ #T20I #T20Iseries #finalmatch pic.twitter.com/90maWMnYB3

— Cric Updates (Bishwas🇳🇵) (@CricUpdate58494) March 25, 2026

South Africa complete a dominant turnaround 💪

From 2-1 down to a 3-2 series triumph — a comeback to remember 🔥🏏#NZvsSA #CricketTwitter pic.twitter.com/ABx6QcFCkK

— CricketTimes.com (@CricketTimesHQ) March 25, 2026

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

Some moments in cricket do not need a scoreboard to matter. Nick Kelly just made one of them. The New Zealand all-rounder was stationed at mid-off during the 5th T20I against South Africa when the game handed him an opportunity that most fielders would have let go. South African batter Rubin Hermann, looking to stay hot on 39 off 31 balls with 4 fours and 1 six, drove the ball hard and low toward the boundary, only for it to be plucked spectacularly by Kelly at mid-off.

Nick Kelly takes a screamer to remove Rubin Hermann

Kelly burst forward, read the ball early, and launched himself into a full-length dive, left hand outstretched, body parallel to the turf. He plucked it inches off the turf with his left hand and held on. The Christchurch crowd erupted. The commentary box lost its composure entirely. “Oh you beauty! Nick Kelly!” Pretty much summed it up.

Replays told the full story. The ball was sharp, low, and travelling fast. The ground covered was considerable. The margin for error was almost zero. Kelly made it look instinctive, which is exactly what made it so jaw-dropping, because nothing about that catch was simple.

It arrived at a crucial stage in the series decider. South Africa won the 5th T20I to clinch the series, but if there is one image that will outlast the final result, it is Kelly horizontal in the air, arm fully extended, ball firmly in hand.

Kelly has been a reliable part of New Zealand’s white-ball setup and also captains his local association side. But this was not about reputation or rank. This was about reflexes, commitment, and the kind of athletic brilliance that reminds everyone why T20 fielding is a genuine game-changer because in a format where every run counts, one moment like this can swing momentum entirely.

Here’s the video:

Also READ: Fans erupt as Connor Esterhuizen’s blazing innings powers South Africa to series-clinching win against New Zealand in 5th T20I

South Africa beat New Zealand in the 5th T20I to clinch the series

In the series decider at Hagley Oval, Christchurch, South Africa posted 187/4 in 20 overs, powered by Connor Esterhuizen’s explosive 75 off 33 balls. New Zealand managed only 154/8 in reply, falling short by 33 runs. The Proteas thus won the match and the 5-match T20I series 3-2.

Also READ: Cricket Ireland announces central contracts for the 2026-27 season

With the excitement building around Indian Premier League 2026, fans are eagerly waiting to see how teams shape their strategies for the upcoming season. Among the franchises under focus, Delhi Capitals remain one of the most talked-about sides, especially due to the presence of their star batter KL Rahul. After a strong showing last season, expectations are high for Rahul to anchor the batting lineup and deliver consistent performances in a format that continues to evolve rapidly.

Faf du Plessis names ideal batting position for KL Rahul

Former South Africa captain Faf du Plessis has weighed in on Rahul’s ideal batting position, suggesting that the Indian batter should open the innings to maximize his impact. Speaking to ESPNcricinfo, Du Plessis highlighted the importance of role clarity and tempo in modern T20 cricket.

“I like KL opening so he can play the tempo the game demands him to play. I know KL can do that, but he just needs direction and role clarity. He’s good enough to do that because we know the game is moving so fast because of the powerplay, where you have to be 65 after six,” Du Plessis said.

He also reflected on Rahul’s role last season, where he was often used at No. 4—a move that required him to adapt his approach. While acknowledging Rahul’s versatility, Du Plessis noted that opening remains the position where he is most effective.

“They had a role planned for him last season, which made sense at the time with him at No.4. He had to play a different style, but KL is that good to adapt to any style. But towards the end, they realized opening is the position that’s best for him and the team,” he added.

Also READ: SWOT analysis of Punjab Kings: PBKS’ report card ahead of IPL 2026

Big season awaits Rahul in IPL 2026

Having scored 539 runs in the previous edition, Rahul heads into IPL 2026 with strong momentum. His ability to switch gears and adapt to match situations makes him a crucial asset for Delhi Capitals. However, with expectations soaring, the upcoming season will test his consistency and leadership within the batting unit.

If the Capitals decide to follow Du Plessis’ suggestion and promote him to the top of the order, Rahul will have the opportunity to dictate terms early in the innings—something that could significantly boost the team’s chances. With fans expecting big runs and match-winning performances, IPL 2026 could prove to be a defining season for the stylish right-hander.

Also READ: SWOT analysis of Delhi Capitals: DC’s report card ahead of IPL 2026

As the Indian Premier League (IPL) 2026 approaches, all eyes are on the Wankhede Stadium. Following a triumphant T20 World Cup 2026 campaign where India clinched the title, the domestic spotlight shifts to the five-time champions, Mumbai Indians (MI). Amidst the tactical buzz, former India opener and domestic legend Wasim Jaffer has shared his specialized Playing XII prediction, offering a fascinating blueprint for Hardik Pandya’s men.

Wasim Jaffer names his ideal Mumbai Indians lineup for IPL 2026

The most striking aspect of Jaffer’s prediction is the structural overhaul of the top order. While Rohit Sharma remains the undisputed cornerstone, Jaffer suggests a spoilt for choice scenario for the opening partner, pitting the explosive Ryan Rickelton against the returning club legend Quinton de Kock. De Kock, reacquired in the 2026 auction for a bargain price of 1 Crore, brings a nostalgic yet potent left-right combination back to the MI fold.

However, the real talking point lies in the middle order. Jaffer has slotted Suryakumar Yadav at his preferred No. 3, but has made a decisive call to promote skipper Hardik Pandya to No. 4. While Pandya featured at this spot only once in the 2025 season, Jaffer points to his successful stint with Gujarat Titans, where he amassed his highest run-tally at this position.

Surprisingly, Jaffer’s combination excludes England’s in-form sensation Will Jacks. Instead, he opts for a more balanced overseas quartet featuring Sherfane Rutherford, Mitchell Santner, and Trent Boult, alongside one of the wicket-keeper openers. This lineup emphasizes depth and versatility, especially with Santner providing a much-needed left-arm spin option on the Wankhede tracks.

Also READ: Former CSK star picks his ideal playing XI of Mumbai Indians for IPL 2026

Hardik Pandya’s vision for MI in IPL 2026

The upcoming season is more than just a quest for a trophy for Pandya; it’s a mission for redemption and building a legacy. After a rollercoaster 2024 and 2025, MI enters the 2026 campaign with a renewed sense of purpose. Speaking ahead of the season opener, Pandya highlighted his desire to return to the MI Way, a culture of backing players and relentless hard work.

“The ultimate dream is to win the IPL for the sixth time. I want us to represent the best cricket Mumbai Indians have ever played,” Pandya stated via Cricbuzz.

The franchise has been inconsistent since their 2020 title, but the addition of experienced campaigners like Deepak Chahar and the retention of the Jasprit Bumrah- Boult pace duo makes them formidable. With young talents like Tilak Varma and Naman Dhir rounding out the XI, the balance looks primed for high-octane T20 cricket.

Mumbai Indians will kick off their IPL 2026 journey on Sunday, March 29, in a high-stakes encounter against the Ajinkya Rahane-led Kolkata Knight Riders at the Wankhede Stadium.

Jaffer’s predicted MI XII for IPL 2026:

Rohit Sharma, Ryan Rickelton/Quinton de Kock, Suryakumar Yadav, Hardik Pandya, Tilak Varma, Sherfane Rutherford, Naman Dhir, Mitchell Santner, Deepak Chahar, Mayank Markande, Jasprit Bumrah, Trent Boult.

Also READ: Will Jasprit Bumrah miss IPL 2026? MI star’s CoE visit raises questions

Rajasthan Royals (RR) have always been the ‘dark horses’ of the Indian Premier League, a team that thrives on data-driven decisions and unearthing diamond-in-the-rough talent. However, the 2025 season was a harsh departure from their usual competitive self. Finishing in a dismal 9th place with only four wins from 14 matches, the inaugural champions looked like a shadow of the side that reached the playoffs just a year prior.

Entering 2026, the pink jersey carries the weight of a franchise in transition. With a seismic shift in leadership, a blockbuster trade that sent long-time captain Sanju Samson to Chennai Super Kings, and a return to the coaching philosophy of Kumar Sangakkara, the Royals are effectively hitting the reset button. The burning question for the ‘Halla Bol’ faithful is simple: Can this high-risk, high-reward strategy propel them back to the summit, or will the ghosts of 2025 continue to haunt the Sawai Mansingh Stadium?

Can Rajasthan Royals turn the tide in 2026?

The 2025 season was a tactical nightmare for the Royals. Despite a batting lineup featuring Yashasvi Jaiswal (who was the lone bright spot with 559 runs) and the veteran presence of Rahul Dravid in the dugout, the team lacked the finishing instinct. Their bowling, spearheaded by Jofra Archer and a rotating cast of spinners, often crumbled under the pressure of the death overs.

To fix this, the management has made the boldest move in the league’s recent history. By trading Samson for the legendary Ravindra Jadeja and the dynamic Sam Curran (though Curran was later replaced by Dasun Shanaka due to injury), RR have signalled a shift toward all-round utility over specialist brilliance.

The appointment of Riyan Parag as captain is perhaps the most polarizing decision of the off-season. While critics point to his lack of captaincy experience at this level, the Royals are betting on his intimate knowledge of the franchise culture and his recent evolution into a consistent middle-order powerhouse. For RR to bounce back, they don’t just need Jaiswal to fire; they need the new engine room of Jadeja and Parag to stabilize a ship that took too much water last year.

Also READ: SWOT analysis of Gujarat Titans: GT’s report card ahead of IPL 2026

RR’s SWOT analysis for IPL 2026

To understand where the Rajasthan Royals stand ahead of the IPL 2026 opener, we must dissect the squad through a comprehensive SWOT analysis. The team has transitioned from a top-heavy batting unit to one that prioritizes depth and tactical flexibility.

Strengths

• Elite Indian top-order: In Jaiswal, RR possesses the most destructive young opener in world cricket. Combined with the emergence of Vaibhav Suryavanshi, the youngest centurion in IPL history, the Royals have a left-handed opening pair that can dismantle any bowling attack in the Powerplay.
• Spin mastery: The acquisition of Jadeja alongside Ravi Bishnoi creates a spin choke middle-overs phase. Their ability to contain runs while taking wickets on the abrasive Jaipur tracks provides RR with a defensive shield that was missing in 2025.
• Tactical all-round depth: By trading for utility players, RR now boasts a lineup where the batting goes down to number nine. With Jadeja, Shanaka, and Parag, the Impact Player rule becomes a massive weapon rather than a selection headache.

Weaknesses

• Pace battery volatility: The fast-bowling unit is heavily reliant on the fitness of Archer. While Sandeep Sharma and Tushar Deshpande are reliable bankers, they lack the raw, intimidating pace required to blow away oppositions on flat batting decks.
• Untested leadership: Appointing Parag as captain is a high-stakes gamble. While he knows the franchise intimately, managing a dressing room containing global icons like Jadeja and Archer requires a level of tactical maturity that Parag has yet to demonstrate under the bright lights of the IPL.
• Death bowling concerns: Historically, RR have struggled to close out innings. If Archer is unavailable or off-color, the responsibility falls on domestic medium-pacers who can be vulnerable against elite finishers in the final three overs.

Opportunities

• The home fortress strategy: With a full season returning to the Sawai Mansingh Stadium, RR have the opportunity to curate pitches that suit their elite spin duo. Turning Jaipur back into an unbeatable territory is their clearest path to the playoffs.
• Redemption for Parag: This season offers Parag the ultimate platform to silence his critics. If he can balance his individual batting form with astute captaincy, he could cement himself as a future leader for the national side.
• Nurturing prodigies: RR’s scouting network has struck gold with Suryavanshi. The 2026 season provides the perfect environment to develop him into a global superstar, maintaining the franchise’s reputation as the “cradle of talent.”

Threats

• The Samson vacuum: Samson wasn’t just a captain; he was the emotional heartbeat of the fans. A string of early losses could lead to a dip in morale and intense public pressure on the new leadership to fill the void left by their former icon.
• Injury dependency: The squad’s balance is delicate. An injury to a pillar player like Jadeja or Jaiswal would be catastrophic, as the bench strength lacks like-for-like replacements with the same match-winning pedigree.
• Evolution of the mid-table: With teams like PBKS and GT undergoing massive tactical shifts, the competition for the 4th playoff spot has never been tighter. RR cannot afford the mid-season slumps that saw them slip to 9th place in 2025.

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

The much-anticipated 2026 edition of the Indian Premier League is all set to kick off on March 28, bringing with it a wave of excitement among cricket fans across the globe. As the countdown begins, discussions around team combinations, key players, and potential match-winners have taken center stage. Among the franchises drawing significant attention is Punjab Kings (PBKS), a side that showed tremendous promise last season. With a balanced squad and strong leadership, PBKS are once again in focus as experts and former players weigh in on their ideal playing combinations.

Irfan Pathan picks his playing XI of PBKS

Former India all-rounder Irfan Pathan has shared his preferred playing XI for Punjab Kings ahead of IPL 2026, offering a mix of youth, experience, and all-round strength. His lineup reflects both stability at the top and depth in the middle and lower order.

Pathan’s chosen XI includes Priyansh Arya and Prabhsimran Singh as openers, followed by Mitchell Owen at number three. The middle order is anchored by skipper Shreyas Iyer, alongside promising talents Nehal Wadhera and Shashank Singh. The presence of experienced all-rounders like Marcus Stoinis adds firepower and flexibility to the lineup.

In the bowling department, Pathan has opted for a potent mix of pace and spin. Marco Jansen, Arshdeep Singh, and Lockie Ferguson (or Ben Dwarshuis) form the pace attack, while Harpreet Brar provides a spin option. Notably, veteran leg-spinner Yuzvendra Chahal has been named as the Impact Player, giving the team an additional edge in crucial moments.

Irfan Pathan’s PBKS XI: Priyansh Arya, Prabhsimran Singh, Mitchell Owen, Shreyas Iyer (C), Nehal Wadhera, Marcus Stoinis, Shashank Singh, Marco Jansen, Harpreet Brar, Arshdeep Singh, Lockie Ferguson / Ben Dwarshuis

Impact Player: Yuzvendra Chahal

Also READ: Irfan Pathan highlights ‘concerning factor’ for KKR ahead of IPL 2026

High expectations from Shreyas Iyer-led side

PBKS head into IPL 2026 with high expectations, especially after their impressive run in the previous season under the leadership of Iyer. The franchise made it to the final last year, showcasing consistency, resilience, and match-winning performances throughout the tournament. Although they fell short of lifting the trophy, their journey has significantly raised hopes among fans and experts alike.

With a well-rounded squad and greater experience, PBKS are now seen as strong contenders to go one step further this season. The leadership of Iyer, combined with the explosive batting lineup and a versatile bowling unit, puts them in a solid position to challenge for their maiden IPL title.

Also READ: MS Dhoni omitted! Irfan Pathan picks his ideal Chennai Super Kings lineup for IPL 2026

Cricket Ireland has revealed its central contract list for the 2026-27 season, awarding deals to a total of 48 players across the senior men’s and women’s squads. The announcement includes 25 players in the men’s squad and 23 in the women’s squad, providing crucial financial stability and support as Ireland prepares for a busy international calendar.

The contracts run through the 2026-27 period and are designed to help players stay fully focused on representing Ireland on the global stage.

Key highlights of the 2026-27 central contract structure

Cricket Ireland has maintained a flexible approach with different types of contracts tailored to players needs:

Men’s contracts (25 players total)

• 20 full-time contracts
• 5 retainer contracts

Women’s contracts (23 players total)

• 8 full-time contracts
• 10 education contracts (six of these will transition to full-time during the year)
• 5 casual contracts

This structure allows several women players to balance their cricket commitments with education and work placements, while still being available for key matches, especially the upcoming Women’s T20 World Cup.

Full list of centrally contracted players

Ireland Men (25 players): Mark Adair, Ross Adair, Andrew Balbirnie (Test captain), Ben Calitz, Curtis Campher, Cade Carmichael, Gareth Delany, George Dockrell, Stephen Doheny, Gavin Hoey, Matthew Hollard, Matthew Humphreys, Joshua Little, Tom Mayes, Andy McBrine, Barry McCarthy, Liam McCarthy, Jordan Neil, Paul Stirling (ODI captain), Harry Tector, Tim Tector, Lorcan Tucker, Ben White, Reuben Wilson, Craig Young.

Ireland Women (23 players): Ava Canning, Christina Coulter Reilly, Alana Dalzell, Georgina Dempsey, Laura Delany, Sarah Forbes, Abbi Harrison, Amy Hunter, Jennifer Jackson, Arlene Kelly, Gaby Lewis (ODI and T20I captain), Louise Little, Joanna Loughran, Aimee Maguire, Jane Maguire, Lara McBride, Kia McCartney, Ellie McGee, Cara Murray, Leah Paul, Orla Prendergast, Rebecca Stokell, Alice Tector.

Also READ: ICC confirms fixtures of Women’s T20 World Cup 2026; India and Pakistan to face off in Edgbaston

Seven new men’s entrants: Ben, Jordan, Tom, Tim, and Cade all earned their spots on the back of senior international appearances in 2025. Reuben and Hollard were rewarded for standout domestic performances, with Wilson’s contribution during the Under-19 World Cup cycle also playing a role in his selection.

Five men not retained: Cricket Ireland confirmed that five players from the previous cycle have not been offered contracts for 2026-27. No names were officially disclosed, but the board acknowledged the difficulty of these decisions, given the personal sacrifices each player had made.

Sophie MacMahon retires: The experienced player from the women’s team has stepped away from the game entirely, bringing her contracted career to a close.

Freya Sargent steps away: Sargent has opted out of international cricket, removing herself from the women’s contract list.

No new women’s entrants: Unlike the men’s side, the women’s squad sees no fresh additions to the contracted group this season. The focus instead has been on consolidating the existing pool ahead of the T20 World Cup.

T20 World Cup commitment: The decision by Ava Canning, Christina Coulter Reilly, Amy Hunter, and Rebecca Stokell to defer education and work placements to commit fully to the summer schedule is perhaps the most significant individual storyline of this contract cycle. It reflects a group that is fully locked in on making the T20 World Cup count.

Also READ: BCCI confirms date, match time and venue for Ireland vs India T20I series