The excitement around the Indian Premier League (IPL) is already reaching fever pitch as the 2026 season is set to begin on March 28. Fans across the globe are eagerly waiting for another high-octane edition, and Chennai Super Kings (CSK) once again find themselves at the center of attention.

The five-time champions enter the new season with a slightly different look and renewed energy. One of the biggest talking points ahead of the tournament has been their bold move in the trade window, bringing in Sanju Samson from Rajasthan Royals. The wicketkeeper-batter is coming off a dream run, having recently played a pivotal role in India’s triumphant T20 World Cup 2026 campaign, where he was also named Player of the Tournament.

With Samson in peak form and CSK known for maximizing player potential, expectations are sky-high as the franchise prepares to chase yet another IPL crown.

Aakash Chopra picks CSK’s probable XI for IPL 2026

Former India cricketer and popular commentator Aakash Chopra has shared his predicted playing XI for CSK this season, offering a glimpse into how the team could shape up. According to Chopra, CSK might opt for a blend of youth and experience, with Ayush Mhatre and Samson to open the innings. Captain Ruturaj Gaikwad is slotted in at No. 3, followed by the explosive Dewald Brevis in the middle order.

The batting lineup further includes Shivam Dube, who has been a consistent performer for the franchise, along with young talents Kartik Sharma and Prashant Veer. Veteran MS Dhoni is expected to take up a finisher’s role, possibly featuring as an Impact Player depending on match situations.

On the bowling front, Chopra has backed a strong pace-spin combination featuring Noor Ahmad, Khaleel Ahmed, and Matt Henry, giving CSK a well-rounded attack.

Aakash Chopra’s CSK Probable XI: Ayush Mhatre, Sanju Samson, Ruturaj Gaikwad (c), Dewald Brevis, Shivam Dube, Kartik Sharma, Prashant Veer, MS Dhoni, Noor Ahmad, Khaleel Ahmed, Matt Henry

Also READ: Former batter picks the ideal top-order of Chennai Super Kings (CSK) for IPL 2026

Why expectations are soaring for CSK this season?

CSK’s squad decisions ahead of IPL 2026 have sparked optimism among fans and experts alike. One of the biggest reasons is the blockbuster trade involving Samson. In a bold move, CSK parted ways with experienced stars Ravindra Jadeja and Sam Curran to bring Samson into their setup. Given his current form, this move could prove to be a game-changer.

Another major talking point is CSK’s shift in strategy. Traditionally known for relying on experienced players, the franchise has now invested heavily in young domestic talents. Spending ₹14.20 crore each on uncapped players Prashant and Kartik signals a clear intent to build for the future while staying competitive in the present.

The return of captain Gaikwad is also a significant boost. After an elbow injury disrupted his IPL 2025 campaign, Gaikwad is back to lead the side and will be eager to make an immediate impact. His calm leadership combined with a dynamic batting unit could be key to CSK’s success.

Lastly, all eyes will once again be on Dhoni. The legendary cricketer continues to be the heartbeat of the franchise, and with speculation that this could be his final season, fans will be hoping for a memorable farewell. Whether as a finisher or mentor, Dhoni’s presence adds immense value to the squad.

Also READ: ‘Before the legacy, there were these two’ – CSK inducts Suresh Raina and Matthew Hayden into inaugural Hall of Fame

Just days before IPL 2026 kicks off, Sunrisers Hyderabad (SRH) have acted swiftly to address a sudden gap in their squad. With injuries disrupting their plans, the franchise, led by owner Kavya Maran, has signed experienced English pacer David Payne as a replacement for Australian all-rounder Jack Edwards.

The timing of this move is crucial. SRH are set to open their campaign against defending champions Royal Challengers Bengaluru (RCB) on March 28 at the M. Chinnaswamy Stadium. With very little time left for preparation, the management clearly wanted an experienced option who could slot in immediately and deliver.

Why Jack Edwards got ruled out of IPL 2026?

The setback came in the form of an injury to Jack Edwards, who had been picked up by SRH for INR 3 crore in the auction. The 25-year-old all-rounder has been ruled out of the entire IPL 2026 season due to a foot injury he sustained earlier this month while playing for New South Wales in the Sheffield Shield.

It’s a particularly unfortunate moment for Edwards, who was just beginning to make his mark on the international stage. He made his T20I debut for Australia in January 2026 against Pakistan and followed it up with an impressive Big Bash League (BB:) season, where he picked up 19 wickets in 13 matches for the Sydney Sixers – finishing as one of the top performers.

Stepping into his place is David Payne, a seasoned left-arm seamer who brings both experience and consistency. Signed for INR 1.5 crore, Payne might not have had an extensive international career – having played just one ODI for England—but his T20 record is hard to ignore.

Across 233 T20 matches, Payne has claimed 304 wickets at an average of 21.16, maintaining an economy rate of 8.03. Known for his ability to strike early in the powerplay, he also possesses a clever slower ball, making him effective in both the early and middle overs. For a team like SRH, which relies heavily on disciplined bowling, Payne’s skillset could prove extremely valuable.

What makes this signing even more exciting is his recent form. Payne was the highest wicket-taker in the 2024 Vitality Blast, picking up 33 wickets and helping Gloucestershire lift the title. He then continued his success in franchise cricket, winning the ILT20 with the Desert Vipers in January 2026. Just weeks later, he delivered a match-winning performance in the Big Bash League final, taking 3 for 18 for Perth Scorchers and earning the Player of the Final award.

Also READ: Ishan Kishan discloses SRH’s blueprint for reaching the 300-run mark in IPL 2026

Leadership changes and early challenges for SRH

While Payne’s arrival strengthens the bowling unit, SRH are still dealing with multiple challenges at the start of their campaign. One of the biggest concerns is the absence of their captain Pat Cummins, who is recovering from a lumbar stress fracture and is expected to miss the initial matches.

In his absence, wicketkeeper-batter Ishan Kishan has been handed the responsibility of leading the side, with Abhishek Sharma named as vice-captain. This marks a significant moment for Kishan, who will be making his IPL captaincy debut.

Kishan comes into the role with confidence, having recently led Jharkhand to the Syed Mushtaq Ali Trophy title and played an important role in India’s T20 World Cup triumph. His aggressive style of play and fearless approach could inject fresh energy into the SRH setup.

Despite the early setbacks, SRH still possess a balanced bowling attack. Alongside Payne, experienced Indian pacers like Bhuvneshwar Kumar and Harshal Patel will play key roles, supported by young domestic talent. The combination of experience and youth gives the team flexibility as they navigate the early phase of the tournament.

As the season begins, all eyes will be on how quickly SRH can adapt to these changes. While losing key players is never ideal, the addition of a proven performer like Payne could turn out to be a smart and timely move. If the team manages to find rhythm early, they still have every chance to start IPL 2026 on a strong note.

Also READ: SWOT analysis of Sunrisers Hyderabad – SRH’s report card ahead of the IPL 2026

As the excitement builds ahead of IPL 2026, Gujarat Titans’ (GT) camp got a special boost when their batting coach Matthew Hayden made a fascinating revelation. The former Australian opener, known for his explosive batting during his playing days, named the player he would happily pass his iconic Mongoose bat to.

The mongoose bat and Hayden’s endorsement

The Mongoose bat holds a special place in IPL history, largely because of how effectively Hayden used it during his time with CSK. With its unique design – a longer handle and a shorter blade – it allowed players to generate incredible bat speed and hit the ball with immense power.

Hayden famously showcased its potential when he smashed a blistering 93 off 43 balls against Delhi Daredevils (now Delhi Capitals) back in 2010. That knock remains one of the most memorable examples of raw hitting in the tournament’s early years.

Now, years later, Hayden sees a similar spark in Rahul Tewatia. Speaking at GT’s “Shubharambh 2026” event in Ahmedabad, he said:

“If I had to hand my Mongoose bat to someone from GT, it would have to be Rahul Tewatia. He has the power. He does a very good job with the long bat. The margins in T20 cricket are five runs, 10 runs and to have that power at the backend and frontend is good. You will get it, mate.”

That statement perfectly captures why Tewatia stands out. In modern T20 cricket, where matches are often decided by the smallest of margins, having a player who can consistently deliver big hits in crunch moments is invaluable. Tewatia’s calm approach combined with his ability to accelerate makes him a natural fit for a bat designed purely for power.

Since joining Gujarat Titans, Tewatia has quietly become one of the most reliable finishers in the league. With 591 runs in 43 innings at a strike rate of over 150, his numbers reflect both consistency and impact. Whether it’s chasing tricky totals or finishing innings with a flourish, he has repeatedly shown that he thrives under pressure.

Also READ: Aakash Chopra points out the weakness of Gujarat Titans ahead of IPL 2026

“I am worried when an easy catch comes my way”: Glenn Phillips

The “Shubharambh 2026” event wasn’t just about Hayden’s endorsement. It also offered a glimpse into the mindset and personality within the Gujarat Titans squad.

New Zealand star Glenn Phillips shared an honest and slightly humorous take on fielding pressure. He said, “I am worried when an easy catch comes my way. Hard catches I know I will take, but easy catch, oh I am worried.”

It’s a relatable sentiment that highlights the mental side of cricket – sometimes the simplest chances can feel like the toughest.

Meanwhile, head coach Ashish Nehra reinforced the team’s competitive spirit with a strong message. He stated, “From day one, our mindset has been clear, we are not here to participate, we are here to compete and win.”

This clear and focused approach has been a defining trait of Gujarat Titans since their debut season. It reflects a culture built around confidence, clarity and a hunger to succeed.

Also READ: IPL 2026 Auction – Salary of Gujarat Titans (GT) players; check out how much Shubman Gill and Jason Holder earn

Chennai Super Kings (CSK) are chasing a record sixth IPL title in 2026 with a bold youth-focused rebuild, blending explosive new signings like Prashant Veer and Kartik Sharma with proven leaders led by captain Ruturaj Gaikwad and Sanju Samson. The side in yellow will kick off their campaign against Rajasthan Royals at the Barsapara Cricket Stadium in Guwahati on March 30.

The Indian Premier League 2026 is here, and for CSK, the vibe around Chepauk mixes redemption with fresh energy. Five-time champions, they carry the pain of finishing bottom in 2025 for the first time ever. The franchise stands at a crossroads. Last season brought just a handful of wins with flat batting starts, middle-order failures and a bowling unit that struggled to close out games.

But CSK moved decisively. They retained key names like Ruturaj Gaikwad, MS Dhoni, Shivam Dube, Dewald Brevis and Noor Ahmad. Then came the shake-up: the blockbuster trade for Sanju Samson from Rajasthan Royals, record spends on uncapped talents Prashant Veer and Kartik Sharma, plus additions like Akeal Hosein, Matt Henry and Rahul Chahar. With head coach Stephen Fleming guiding the ship, the team carries a clear “new generation” feel.

CSK’s 2025 hangover: Can the refreshed batting spark a title run?

The hurt from 2025 lingers. The top rarely sets strong platforms, leaving the middle to rescue innings too often. Ruturaj Gaikwad showed class at times, but without consistent early momentum, things unravelled. Bowling delivered in spells as Noor Ahmad stood out, yet death overs and pressure situations proved costly.

Now in 2026, things look different. Sanju Samson and Ayush Mhatre promise aggressive powerplay starts, Ruturaj anchors at No. 3, Dewald Brevis brings middle-over explosion, and Dube handles the finish. Kartik Sharma adds keeping and hitting depth, while Prashant Veer offers all-round balance with left-arm spin. Spin remains elite with Noor, Akeal, and Rahul Chahar, and pace draws from Khaleel Ahmed, Matt Henry and Jamie Overton. The big question: Can this mix of youth firepower and experience spark a comeback, or will the lack of proven depth show in big moments?

CSK’s SWOT analysis for IPL 2026

Titles in the IPL are earned through team balance and performance under pressure, not just individual reputations. Here is the straight breakdown of Chennai Super Kings ahead of the 2026 season.

Strengths

• Dynamic top order & middle punch: Sanju Samson brings top-order aggression and experience, Ruturaj Gaikwad adds stability, Dewald Brevis explodes in the middle, and Shivam Dube finishes with power. This lineup gives CSK real phase-by-phase options.
• Spin variety & control: Noor Ahmad, Akeal Hosein, and Rahul Chahar form a strong spin core. They can dominate middle overs, especially on turning pitches.
• Chepauk fortress potential: With spin strength, Dube’s hitting and batting suited to slow conditions, CSK can make home games tough for visitors again.

Weaknesses

• Pace & death bowling gaps: Khaleel Ahmed leads upfront, but the attack lacks reliable death specialists. Matt Henry excels early but can leak late, and backups struggle for consistency under pressure. The hamstring injury suffered by Nathan Ellis rules him out entirely, leaving a big hole in the overseas pace options.
• Inexperience in key roles: Heavy bets on uncapped Prashant Veer and Kartik Sharma bring upside, but limited IPL exposure risks faltering in high-stakes chases or tight defenses.
• Finishing uncertainty: MS Dhoni still brings presence, but at this stage, his finishing impact is uncertain, and there is no clear extra enforcer if the top order falls early.

Also READ: MS Dhoni’s witty reply to Sivakarthikeyan’s ‘Play till 60’ question wins hearts

Opportunities

• Youth breakout window: Prashant Veer and Kartik Sharma get massive chances to shine and become long-term pillars, as the fresh talent CSK needs for the future.
• Samson leadership layer: Sanju Samson adds top-order class and captaincy know-how. His experience alongside Ruturaj Gaikwad creates smarter on-field decisions and team depth.
• Bounce-back culture: Stephen Fleming’s steady hand lets CSK fuse aggressive youth with tactical smarts — the reset missing last year.

Threats

• Captaincy & transition pressure: Ruturaj Gaikwad’s leadership holds respect, but steering a youth-heavy side with title expectations could test him against teams like MI or KKR.
• Injury & form risks: Key pacers face fitness questions, and any dip in young players could expose gaps fast in a packed schedule. The loss of Ellis adds extra strain on the pace unit right from the start.
• High-stakes league: Other teams rebuilt aggressively with data and stars. CSK cannot afford integration hiccups or the slumps that derailed them before.

Also READ: ‘Before the legacy, there were these two’: CSK inducts Suresh Raina and Matthew Hayden into inaugural Hall of Fame

India have unveiled their squad for the upcoming five-match Women’s T20I series against South Africa, with a mix of fresh faces and established performers highlighting the selection. The spotlight firmly falls on seam-bowling all-rounder Kashvee Gautam, who has earned her maiden T20I call-up and could finally make her debut in the shortest format during the April tour.

Kashvee Gautam’s rise earns maiden T20I call-up

Gautam’s inclusion is one of the biggest talking points in the squad announcement. The young all-rounder has already represented India in one Test and six ODIs, showcasing her ability in longer formats. She was also part of India’s recent tour of Australia, where she gained valuable international exposure.

However, the T20I format has remained the missing piece in her international journey so far. With conditions in South Africa expected to assist seamers, Gautam now stands a strong chance of finally donning the India jersey in T20Is. Her dual ability to contribute with both bat and ball adds balance to the squad, something the team management has clearly prioritized.

Uma Chetry added as backup wicketkeeper

Another notable inclusion is wicketkeeper-batter Uma Chetry, who comes in as cover for first-choice keeper Richa Ghosh. Chetry replaces teenage prospect G Kamalini, who has not featured in international cricket since her debut series against Sri Lanka last year.

Despite being part of the squad during the Australia tour, Kamalini did not get a game, and the selectors appear to have opted for a more experienced backup option in Chetry. This move indicates a focus on stability and readiness, especially in a competitive away series.

Key omissions signal shift in selection strategy

The squad also sees a few significant omissions. Left-arm spinner Vaishnavi Sharma, who was part of the Sri Lanka series, has been left out after not getting opportunities in Australia. All-rounder Amanjot Kaur has also missed out following a difficult outing in her recent T20I appearances, where she struggled with both bat and ball. These exclusions suggest that the selectors are leaning towards form and role clarity, especially with a packed international calendar ahead.

Also READ: Georgia Voll’s sensational century helps Australia whitewash West Indies in Women’s T20I series

Balanced bowling attack for South African conditions

India’s bowling unit appears well-rounded, particularly with a strong seam contingent. Gautam joins Arundhati Reddy, Renuka Singh, and Kranti Gaud to form a four-pronged pace attack suited for South African pitches.

The spin department will be led by experienced all-rounder Deepti Sharma, alongside Shree Charani and Shreyanka Patil. This combination offers both control and wicket-taking options in the middle overs, ensuring variety in India’s bowling plans.

The T20I series will begin in Durban, hosting the first two matches on April 17 and 19. The action will then move to Johannesburg for the third and fourth games on April 22 and 25. The series will conclude in Benoni on April 27.

India Women’s squad for T20Is vs South Africa: Harmanpreet Kaur (captain), Smriti Mandhana (vice-captain), Shafali Verma, Jemimah Rodrigues, Deepti Sharma, Richa Ghosh (wk), Arundhati Reddy, Renuka Singh, Kranti Gaud, Sree Charani, Shreyanka Patil, Kashvee Gautam, Bharti Fulmali, Uma Chetry (wk), Anushka Sharma.

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

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

Australia Women continued their dominant run on the West Indies tour with a comprehensive 40-run (DLS method) victory in the third T20I at Arnos Vale Ground. A breathtaking century from Georgia Voll set the tone for the visitors, helping them seal a 3-0 clean sweep in the series.

Georgia Voll’s masterclass hundred headlines massive total for Australia

After being asked to bat first, Australia Women produced a batting exhibition, piling up a formidable 211/7 in their 20 overs. The star of the show was Voll, who smashed a sensational 101 off just 53 deliveries, laced with nine fours and six towering sixes. Her innings provided the backbone of Australia’s dominance and left the West Indies bowlers searching for answers.

Phoebe Litchfield chipped in with a brisk 15 off 8 balls, while Ellyse Perry added a steady 18. Nicola Carey contributed 24 runs in the middle overs before Sophie Molineux provided a late flourish with a quickfire 25 off just 12 balls, ensuring Australia crossed the 200-run mark comfortably.

For West Indies Women, skipper Hayley Matthews was the standout performer with the ball, picking up 3 wickets for 29 runs in her four overs. Jahzara Claxton supported well with two scalps, but the rest of the bowling unit struggled to contain Australia’s aggressive batting approach.

Rain interruption halts chase despite Hayley Matthews’ effort

Chasing a daunting target, West Indies Women got off to a shaky start, losing Qiana Joseph early for a duck. Matthews tried to anchor the innings with a fighting 30 off 23 balls, while Eboni Brathwaite contributed 18 runs. However, regular interruptions and a disciplined Australian bowling attack derailed the chase.

At 61/3 in 10 overs, the match was interrupted by rain, and the revised DLS target left the hosts well short, handing Australia a 40-run victory. Deandra Dottin remained unbeaten on 11 but couldn’t accelerate in time.

Australia’s bowlers kept things tight, with Megan Schutt and Lucy Hamilton picking up early wickets. Perry was particularly economical, conceding just one run while taking a wicket, effectively choking the scoring rate during a crucial phase.

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

Australia seal dominant 3-0 series win in the T20I leg

With wins in all three matches—by 43 runs, 17 runs, and now 40 runs (DLS)—Australia Women completed a commanding clean sweep of the T20I series. Voll was deservedly named Player of the Match for her match-winning century, while Alana King earned the Player of the Series award for her consistent performances throughout the tour.

The action now shifts to the ODI leg of the tour, with the first match scheduled for Friday, March 27 at Warner Park in St Kitts, where West Indies Women will look to bounce back against a confident Australian side.

Also READ: Alana King steers Australia to series-clinching win over West Indies in 2nd Women’s T20I

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

In the middle of IPL 2026 preparations, where every net session counts, Punjab Kings skipper Shreyas Iyer stepped out for some entertainment. The star batter was spotted at a packed theatre in Mohali on Sunday, watching the runaway hit Dhurandhar: The Revenge. Dressed casually in a black and white hoodie, Iyer made his way to a top-row seat. When fans noticed him and started recording, the cricketer smiled, waved, and kept it cool, a simple fan moment that went viral fast.

Iyer’s outing comes right after other cricketers like MS Dhoni and Sanju Samson were seen enjoying the same film in Chennai. The Aditya Dhar-directed spy action thriller, starring Ranveer Singh in a powerful undercover role, has taken the box office by storm since its release on March 19. With its intense sequences, revenge theme, and patriotic edge, the sequel to Dhurandhar has pulled crowds from all sides, and now top IPL stars are part of the frenzy.

Shreyas Iyer enjoys Dhurandhar magic in the cinema hall

Iyer, fresh off captaining Punjab Kings and building form ahead of the IPL opener, chose a low-key outing to unwind. Fans at the Mohali theatre got a surprise when the Indian batter walked in. Videos show him settling in quietly, enjoying the film like any other viewer. His wave to the camera turned the sighting into instant social media gold.

This isn’t the first time cricketers have shown love for big Bollywood releases, but Dhoni’s group outing in Chennai added to the buzz. For Iyer, it is a rare off-field glimpse before the high-pressure IPL season starts. With Punjab Kings eyeing a strong campaign under his leadership, a movie break might just be the perfect reset.

As Dhurandhar 2 keeps packing theatres, Shreyas Iyer’s visit proves the film’s pull goes beyond cinema halls, and even IPL stars can’t resist the revenge saga. The crossover of cricket and blockbuster cinema? Fans love it every time.

Here is the video:

Shreyas Iyer was seen watching Dhurandhar 2 in Mohali. pic.twitter.com/zqgCoKnJX9

— Parv 🚩 (@ParvCryEmoji) March 22, 2026

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

Punjab Kings start IPL 2026 at home

This year, they start with their first match against the Gujarat Titans at home in Mullanpur on March 31 with a chance to build on last season’s strong run and chase that elusive first title. Iyer, nicknamed “Sarpanch Sahab,” led Punjab Kings to the IPL 2025 final as runners-up, where they lost by six runs to Royal Challengers Bengaluru in a thrilling finish.

Fans are eager to see the new signings in action and how the experienced core, including Arshdeep Singh, Yuzvendra Chahal, Marcus Stoinis, Shashank Singh, plus domestic talents such as Priyansh Arya and Harpreet Brar, shape up under pressure. With home games giving them an early advantage, Punjab Kings will look to start strong and carry momentum through the tournament.

Also READ: ‘Sarpanch Sahab’ Shreyas Iyer headlines Punjab Kings’ jersey launch for IPL 2026

As the Indian Premier League (IPL) 2026 draws near, the spotlight has shifted toward a revitalized Sunrisers Hyderabad (SRH) camp. In a surprising but strategic leadership shuffle, the franchise confirmed that Ishan Kishan will captain the side for the opening leg of the tournament. This decision comes as regular skipper Pat Cummins continues his recovery from a lingering lower back injury sustained during the 2025–26 Ashes.

Stepping onto the stage at a recent pre-season event, Kishan, fresh off a historic T20 World Cup triumph with Team India, displayed the same infectious confidence that has defined his recent ‘redemption arc.’ When asked about the team’s strategy to break the elusive 300-run barrier in T20s, the stand-in skipper offered a blueprint that was as tactical as it was humorous.

Ishan Kishan explains how SRH plans to smash 300 in IPL 2026

Kishan’s vision for SRH involves leaning heavily into the ‘Orange Army’s’ greatest strength: raw, unadulterated power. Addressing the fans and media, he jokingly sidelined his own personal milestones in favour of a collective explosion. “The day we score 300 runs, the most important batters are Travis Head and Heinrich Klaasen,” Kishan remarked with a grin.

The strategy appears simple yet terrifying for opposition bowlers. Kishan suggested that while he and vice-captain Abhishek Sharma would be happily settled with quick-fire 70s to lay the foundation, the heavy lifting for a triple-century total must come from their overseas enforcers. By prioritizing strike rates over centuries, Kishan is fostering a selfless batting culture aimed at maximizing the scoring potential of every delivery. With a middle order featuring Liam Livingstone, Kamindu Mendis, and the rising Nitish Kumar Reddy, SRH possesses the depth to maintain a 15-runs-per-over clip.

Ishan Kishan says that the day Travis Head and Heinrich Klaasen score big (centuries), 300 is possible. Meanwhile, he and Abhishek would happily settle for 70 each🤣🧡 pic.twitter.com/AByoXtDxXW

— Ishan’s (@Ishanworld32) March 22, 2026

Also WATCH: Shubman Gill trolls Abhishek Sharma and SRH in fun segment with Sahiba Bali

Can SRH batting powerhouse offset bowling concerns?

Despite the optimism surrounding their batting, the road to the playoffs looks steep. SRH finished a disappointing sixth in 2025, and experts like Aakash Chopra have raised red flags regarding their depleted bowling stocks. With Cummins sidelined and Sri Lankan pacer Eshan Malinga‘s participation still uncertain, the burden falls on Harshal Patel and England’s Brydon Carse to lead the attack.

Chopra recently predicted that SRH might struggle to reach the Top 4, noting that while they can post 250, their lack of a specialist wicket-taking spinner beyond Zeeshan Ansari might see them concede just as many. However, Kishan’s recent track record offers a glimmer of hope. He recently led Jharkhand to their maiden Syed Mushtaq Ali Trophy title, proving his mettle as a tactician who can punch above his weight in domestic conditions.

SRH will face a trial by fire in their opening match on March 28, taking on the defending champions, Royal Challengers Bengaluru (RCB), at the M. Chinnaswamy Stadium. For Kishan, the match is more than just a season opener; it is an opportunity to prove that his blueprint for a 300-run total is more than just a joke, it’s a warning to the rest of the league.

Also READ: IPL: Complete list of all SRH captains so far ft. Ishan Kishan

Indian Premier League (IPL) 2026 is just around the corner, but Delhi Capitals (DC) camp is currently navigating a cloud of uncertainty regarding their primary strike bowler, Mitchell Starc. As the franchise prepares for its season opener against Lucknow Super Giants on April 1, the focus has shifted from tactical drills to administrative clearances. The 36-year-old left-arm pacer, a vital cog in the Capitals’ bowling machinery, finds his participation hanging in the balance as Cricket Australia (CA) adopts a conservative stance on player workload.

Delhi Capitals provide update on Mitchell Starc’s IPL 2026 participation status

During a high-stakes pre-season media interaction in New Delhi on Monday, March 23, the Delhi Capitals management addressed the growing speculation surrounding Starc. Head coach Hemang Badani was candid about the situation, admitting that the franchise is currently in a waiting game. Badani clarified that while Starc remains a core part of their plans, his arrival in India is strictly contingent on receiving a No Objection Certificate (NOC) from the Australian cricket board.

“We are waiting for an NOC from Cricket Australia, once we get that, then only we can say anything about Starc’s availability,” Badani stated to reporters.

Supporting this sentiment, DC’s Director of Cricket, Venugopal Rao, emphasized that the delay is primarily rooted in fitness protocols. Rao reassured fans that the intent is for Starc to join the squad, but the franchise must respect the medical guidelines set by Cricket Australia. Starc’s value to the team cannot be overstated; last season, he was the second-highest wicket-taker for the Capitals, claiming 14 scalps in 11 matches. Having been retained for a staggering ₹11.75 crore in the 2025 mega auction, his absence would leave a multi-million-dollar void in the DC pace attack.

“Starc will come, we just waiting for the NOC because his fitness is the concern. We are just waiting for it,” Rao added.

Also READ: IPL 2026: How many matches will Mitchell Starc miss for Delhi Capitals?

Australian pacers’ delayed arrival and ruling out from IPL 2026

The ‘Starc situation’ is not an isolated incident but rather part of a broader, calculated strategy by Cricket Australia to protect its elite fast-bowling stocks. With a gruelling international calendar ahead, including a potential 21 Test matches over the next year and the 2027 ODI World Cup on the horizon, CA has implemented strict return-to-play protocols. This move has had a domino effect across several IPL franchises.

While Starc is expected to miss the initial stage of the tournament, other Australian stars are facing similar hurdles:

• Pat Cummins (SRH) & Josh Hazlewood (RCB): Both are set to miss the opening matches for their respective teams under the same workload management plan. In a significant shift for Sunrisers Hyderabad, Ishan Kishan is expected to lead the side in Cummins’ absence.
• Nathan Ellis (CSK) & Jack Edwards (SRH): The news is bleaker for these two, who have been officially ruled out of the entire IPL 2026 season due to a hamstring and foot injury, respectively.

For the Delhi Capitals, the immediate strategy involves leaning on their depth. In Starc’s absence, the likes of Lungi Ngidi, T. Natarajan, and the rising domestic sensation Auqib Nabi Dar will be expected to shoulder the new-ball responsibilities. While captain Axar Patel remains optimistic that Starc could join at any time, the Capitals must be prepared to start their 2026 campaign without their most lethal weapon.

Also READ: Kris Srikkanth names his playing XI of Delhi Capitals (DC) for IPL 2026

Legendary Indian batter Rohit Sharma is often regarded as MI’s greatest batter in the IPL, however, his form has seen a major dip in recent times. However, after showing glimpses of good form, he has been backed by his former Indian teammate.

The Mumbai Indians’ five-time title-winning skipper Rohit Sharma has faced the heat for not having scored sufficient runs with the bat over the last few seasons. However, coming into this season with the promise of a 6th title the former skipper must perform with the bat as well.

Former CSK spinner and Rohit Sharma’s team Indian teammate Ravichandran Ashwin opined that the batter can unleash his very best this season. He has retired from other formats and has looked fitter than before.

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“I personally think this is going to be a season where Rohit will really take it on. He doesn’t need to play cricket for the whole season. He is getting enough breaks. His mind is fresh. He is physically in a good space. He looks really fit.

“And I think this could well be a season where Rohit Sharma is going to bring back his T20 batting in the IPL,” Ashwin remarked on his YouTube channel.

Rohit receives massive backing from Ravi Ashwin following promising IPL seasons

Rohit Sharma, the Mumbai Indians’ batting stalwart, had the two best seasons with the willow for MI in 2024 and 2025, taking the entire decade into account. He has amassed 835 runs across these two editions, striking at almost 150.

Ashwin pointed out that despite his lack of form over the years, the Mumbai Indians are awaiting the impact he has produced for India internationally, and he will have the chance to unleash the very best.

“Let’s not forget, Rohit Sharma, the IPL batsman, hasn’t been quite present in the last few years. But this could be a great opportunity for him to really restore that. And I, personally, think he can go on to enjoy his season and do some incredible things for the Mumbai Indians this season,” Ashwin added.

Will Rohit once again be used as an Impact player?

Despite Rohit being one of their most veteran players and his experience being of immense importance to any captain on the field, the Mumbai Indians had used him as an impact player.

Ahead of the start of the season, MI head coach Mahela Jayawardene was asked about the same, and he revealed that they had to manage some fitness-related issues. The last time, but we are looking forward to having him on the field this season.

However, the coach also claimed that their team is largely composed of all-rounders, and among Rohit and Suryakumar, one has to feature as an impact player.

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