The streets of Hyderabad erupted in celebration this week as local hero and newly-crowned T20 World Champion, Tilak Varma, made his triumphant return to Telangana. The young batting sensation, who played a pivotal role in India’s dominant ICC Men’s T20 World Cup 2026 campaign, was officially honoured by Chief Minister Revanth Reddy in a high-profile ceremony that captured the spirit of a grateful state.

India’s 96-run victory over New Zealand in the final was a masterclass in clinical cricket, but for Hyderabadis, the definitive moment remains etched in history: Tilak, stationed at long-on, clutching the winning catch off Abhishek Sharma’s bowling. After traveling from the scenic hills of Mussoorie where he attended the wedding of teammate Kuldeep Yadav, Tilak touched down in his home state to a reception fit for a champion.

T20 World Cup winner Tilak Varma receives grand welcome from CM Revanth Reddy in Hyderabad

Upon his arrival, Tilak was whisked away to meet Chief Minister Reddy, who led a distinguished delegation to honour the southpaw’s achievements. The felicitation was not just a political formality but a star-studded sporting gathering. In attendance were notable figures including former Indian captain and current Minister Mohammad Azharuddin, Minister Vakiti Srihari, and Rajya Sabha member Vem Narender Reddy.

The atmosphere was electric as CM Reddy presented Tilak with traditional honours, recognizing him as a symbol of Telangana’s rising dominance on the global sporting stage. While official discussions regarding a specific cash prize or land allotment customary for World Cup winners in India have not yet been finalized, the Chief Minister emphasized that Tilak’s journey from the local academies of Hyderabad to the pinnacle of world cricket serves as an inspiration to millions of aspiring athletes in the region.

Here’s the video:

Tilak Varma felicitated by Telengana CM Revanth Reddy https://t.co/lZpdzuHIzu

— Aatish Kapoor the oscar winner (@AkashThapa2505) March 17, 2026

Also READ: Captain Shubman Gill reveals Team India’s ultimate goal

The evolution of Tilak as a finisher in T20 World Cup 2026

While many players contributed to India’s 2026 trophy haul, Tilak’s evolution during the tournament was perhaps the most significant tactical shift for the Men in Blue. Initially slated as a classical No. 3 batter, Tilak showcased a rare selfless streak by dropping down the order to balance a top-heavy Indian lineup. This shift turned him into a ‘Swiss Army Knife’ for the captain, providing explosive power in the death overs.

His statistics as a lower-order finisher were nothing short of breathtaking:

• Vs Zimbabwe: A blistering 44* off just 16 balls.
• Vs West Indies: A crucial 27 off 15 deliveries.
• Vs England (Semi-final): A high-pressure 21 off 7 balls.
• Strike Rate: An astronomical 227.27 when batting at positions 5, 6, and 7.

By adapting to the team’s needs, Tilak transitioned from a promising stylist to a cold-blooded finisher. His ability to maintain such a high strike rate under the immense pressure of a World Cup knockout stage proved to be the X-factor India had long sought.

Also WATCH: Heartwarming scene as KL Rahul embraces Sanju Samson during BCCI’s Naman Awards tribute to T20 World Cup champions

The wait is over, and the ‘Ee Sala Cup Namde’ chants have finally transformed into a triumphant reality. Royal Challengers Bengaluru (RCB) enter the IPL 2026 season not as the perennial underdogs or the almost team, but as the defending champions. After a historic 2025 campaign where they clinically dismantled Punjab Kings in the final to lift their maiden trophy, the narrative in the Garden City has shifted from hope to expectation. Under the shrewd leadership of Rajat Patidar and the tactical mastery of head coach Andy Flower, RCB have shed its image of a top-heavy, volatile unit to become a balanced, winning machine.

As we approach the 2026 season, the M. Chinnaswamy Stadium is buzzing with a different kind of energy. The pressure of breaking the jinx is gone, replaced by the formidable challenge of building a dynasty. With a squad that balances the evergreen brilliance of Virat Kohli with the explosive middle-order depth of Phil Salt and Jitesh Sharma, the question on every RCB fan’s heart is simple: Can RCB defend their title and make it two in a row?

RCB’s quest for the second title in IPL 2026

Defending an IPL title is a feat only achieved by the elite, Chennai Super Kings and Mumbai Indians. For RCB to join this exclusive club, they have doubled down on stability. Unlike previous years where the franchise often hit the reset button, the 2026 strategy has been about surgical reinforcements. By retaining 17 players from their championship-winning squad, the management has signalled total faith in the chemistry that brought them glory in 2025.

The addition of Venkatesh Iyer for a whopping ₹7 crore at the auction is a masterstroke designed to provide the tactical flexibility RCB has lacked for a decade. With Iyer, the team gains a bridge between the top and middle order, as well as a medium-pace option that allows them to play an extra specialist bowler if needed. The goal is clear: don’t fix what isn’t broken, but reinforce the walls to withstand the inevitable counter-attack from the rest of the league.

RCB’s SWOT analysis for IPL 2026

To understand if RCB can truly replicate their success, we must dive deep into the four pillars of their current ecosystem. This SWOT analysis breaks down the internal and external factors that will define their 2026 journey.

Strengths:

• The “Kohli-Patidar-Salt” reliability: Kohli remains the heartbeat of the team, coming off a solid 2025 season where he played the anchor role to perfection whereas Salt is known for his intent blast in powerplay. Alongside them, Captain Patidar has matured into a leader who leads by example, often playing the high-impact knocks under pressure that were once RCB’s Achilles’ heel.
• The finisher’s vlub: With Jitesh, Romario Shepherd, and Tim David in the mix, RCB possesses one of the most terrifying death-overs lineups in the league. This depth allows the top order to play with more freedom, knowing there is significant firepower to follow.
• Death bowling mastery: The resurgence of Yash Dayal and the veteran experience of Bhuvneshwar Kumar provide RCB with a rare luxury domestic pacers who can nail yorkers in the final three overs at the Chinnaswamy.

Weaknesses:

• Lack of Wrist-Spin Variety: While Suyash Sharma is a brilliant find and a genuine wicket-taker, the squad is remarkably thin on leg-spin backups. In a tournament as long as the IPL, an injury to Suyash could leave a massive hole in the middle-overs wicket-taking department.
• The fragility of the pace attack: Josh Hazlewood is a world-class operator, but his history of fitness issues is well-documented. If Hazlewood or the newly signed Jacob Duffy aren’t available for the full season, the burden on the Indian domestic pacers might become unsustainable.

Also READ: “Anil bhai at 8…”: Virat Kohli names his greatest RCB playing XI featuring iconic leg spinner ahead of IPL 2026

Opportunities:

• U-19 World Cup prodigies: RCB struck gold at the mini-auction by picking up stars like Kanishk Chouhan and Vihaan Malhotra. These youngsters, coming fresh off a successful U-19 campaign, offer the X-factor that often wins games from nowhere. Chouhan, in particular, is a versatile all-rounder who could be the breakout star of 2026.
• The impact player tactical edge: With a squad full of versatile all-rounders like Iyer and Krunal Pandya, RCB is better positioned than most to exploit the Impact Player rule, allowing them to switch between a batting-heavy or bowling-heavy XI based on the toss.

Threats:

• The weight of expectation: Being the hunted is harder than being the hunter. Every team will have a specific blueprint RCB strategy this year. Managing the psychological shift from being the team trying to win to the team expected to win will be Patidar’s biggest test.
• Chinnaswamy’s volatility: While it is their home, the M. Chinnaswamy Stadium remains a graveyard for bowlers. One or two bad nights at home can quickly derail momentum in a league where the margin between the top four and the bottom four is razor-thin.

Also READ: Bengaluru’s M Chinnaswamy Stadium gets green light to host IPL 2026 opener and final

The Pakistan Super League (PSL) 2026 is heading into one of its most uncertain starts yet, with serious concerns emerging just days before the tournament begins on March 26. What was supposed to be a celebration of cricket has now been overshadowed by rising geopolitical tensions, particularly after a deadly airstrike in Kabul.

Rising tensions between Pakistan and Afghanistan after Kabul airstrike

The situation escalated dramatically on the night of March 16, when Pakistan carried out what it described as “precision airstrikes” under Operation Ghazab Lil Haq. According to Pakistani authorities, the strikes targeted militant infrastructure in Kabul and Nangarhar, allegedly linked to attacks on civilians.

However, Afghan officials have strongly disputed this narrative. They claim the strikes hit a major civilian facility – the Omid Addiction Treatment Hospital in Kabul. Reports suggest that the hospital, which had a capacity of 2,000 beds, was completely destroyed. Officials have stated that over 400 people were killed and around 250 injured in the incident.

While Pakistan has denied targeting any civilian structure, the scale of the reported casualties has sparked international concern and significantly raised security alarms for foreign players.

Australian contingent in a tough spot ahead of PSL 2026

Despite the tense situation, a total of 17 Australian cricketers and coaches are currently contracted across multiple PSL franchises. Their involvement now depends heavily on evolving safety conditions and government advisories.

The uncertainty is particularly impactful because many of these players are key figures in their respective teams, including globally recognized names and experienced coaches.

One of the biggest concerns revolves around the March 28 fixture between Peshawar Zalmi and Rawalpindi Pindiz. The match, scheduled to be held at the Imran Khan Cricket Stadium in Peshawar, is now in serious doubt after the city was marked as a “do not travel” zone by Australian authorities.

Also READ: Rashid Khan and other Afghanistan cricketers slam Pakistan for deadly air strike in Kabul

Full list of Australian players and coaches in PSL 2026

Multan Sultans

• Steve Smith – Batter
• Josh Philippe – Wicketkeeper-Batter
• Peter Siddle – Pace Bowler
• Ashton Turner – Batter
• Tim Paine – Head Coach

Hyderabad Kingsmen

• Marnus Labuschagne – Batter
• Glenn Maxwell – All-rounder
• Riley Meredith – Pace Bowler
• Jason Gillespie – Head Coach

Karachi Kings

• David Warner – Batter
• Adam Zampa – Spin Bowler

Quetta Gladiators

• Sam Harper – Wicketkeeper-Batter
• Ben McDermott – Wicketkeeper-Batter

Rawalpindi Pindiz

• Jake Fraser-McGurk – Batter

Peshawar Zalmi

• Aaron Hardie – All-rounder

Islamabad United

Also READ: The Hundred 2026 – Sunil Gavaskar hits out at Indian franchise owners for recruiting Pakistani players in their teams

As the Indian Premier League (IPL) 2026 gears up for its 19th edition, the air in Mumbai is thick with anticipation. This season promises a record-breaking 84 matches, starting March 28, following a high-octane T20 World Cup cycle. For the ‘Paltan,’ the heartbeat of the city remains the iconic Wankhede Stadium, where the roar of the crowd often acts as the team’s twelfth man.

Under the leadership of Hardik Pandya, and with the seasoned Rohit Sharma returning to the camp in high spirits, the Mumbai Indians (MI) are looking to reclaim their throne. The squad is a mouth-watering blend of legacy and fresh firepower, featuring the world’s top-ranked T20 batter Suryakumar Yadav and the lethal pace duo of Jasprit Bumrah and the returning Trent Boult.

MI vs KKR: A heavyweight showdown at Wankhede Stadium

The first home game for the five-time champions is nothing short of a blockbuster. On March 29, 2026, Mumbai Indians will lock horns with the Kolkata Knight Riders (KKR). This isn’t just a match; it’s a tactical chess game between two of the league’s most successful franchises.

KKR enters the season with a revamped look after a massive spending spree in the 2026 auction. They made headlines by securing Australian powerhouse Cameron Green for a staggering ₹25.20 crore to their arsenal. With Ajinkya Rahane at the helm and a dangerous opening duo potentially featuring Finn Allen, KKR poses a significant threat to MI’s home fortress. Fans can expect a high-scoring thriller, as the Wankhede pitch traditionally favours stroke-makers but offers just enough bounce for Bumrah to weave his magic.

How to secure the tickets for MI’s home matches?

With the MI vs KKR (March 29) and the massive MI vs RCB (April 12) clashes on the horizon, the rush for tickets is expected to be unprecedented. To ensure you don’t miss out, the franchise has announced a tiered digital sale via BookMyShow.

Key sale phases:

Pro-Tip: To avail of membership benefits, you must have purchased your MI membership before 19th March 2026, 23:59 IST. Ensure you log in to BookMyShow using the exact same mobile number and email ID used for your membership registration.

Also READ: IPL 2026: Here’s why KKR have no replacements for Harshit Rana and Matheesha Pathirana

Step-by-step process to book tickets

Fans hoping to secure tickets can follow this process on official platforms:

1. Open the BookMyShow app or website. If you are an MI Member, you must sign in using the same email ID and phone number linked to your membership on mumbaiindians.com.
2. Search for “IPL 2026” or “Mumbai Indians” and select the specific match (e.g., MI vs KKR).
3. Use the interactive stadium map of Wankhede to choose your preferred stand (e.g., North Stand, Garware, or Sachin Tendulkar Stand).
4. Select the specific seats. Note that there is usually a limit on the number of tickets per user (typically 2 to 4).
5. Proceed to checkout. If you are booking in Phase 1, ensure you use Google Pay. For other phases, standard digital payments (UPI, Cards, Net Banking) are available.
6. Once successful, your M-Ticket (Digital Ticket) will be sent to your registered email and mobile number.

Note: Price details about the seats will be updated as soon as online ticket counter opens for presale on March 19.

Also READ: Suresh Raina suggests the perfect batting slot for Rinku Singh at Kolkata Knight Riders (KKR) ahead of IPL 2026

The build-up to PSL 2026 has taken an unexpected and tense turn, with growing security concerns now threatening to overshadow the cricket. What was meant to be a celebration of the league’s expansion has quickly turned into a logistical and safety challenge, especially for foreign players – most notably those from Australia.

Why Australian players will not travel to Peshawar?

With the tournament just days away, the Australian government has issued a strong travel advisory, urging its citizens – including cricketers – to avoid certain parts of Pakistan. Peshawar, in particular, has been marked as a “do not travel” zone, following escalating tensions in the region after the deadly Kabul airstrike.

According to reports, Cricket Australia has been in constant touch with the Pakistan Cricket Board (PCB) as the situation evolved. The government’s Smartraveller advisory didn’t mince words, stating: “Terrorist attacks could occur randomly and without warning, inclusive of major cities such as Islamabad, Karachi, Rawalpindi and Lahore, including as retribution for recent Pakistan defence force strikes on Kabul, Kandahar and other locations in Afghanistan,” the advisory stated.

While Australian players haven’t been barred from traveling to Pakistan entirely, they’ve been clearly advised to stay away from Peshawar. This has put a major question mark over the March 28 clash between Peshawar Zalmi and Rawalpindi Pindiz – especially since both teams feature Australian players.

What makes this more significant is that Peshawar was set to host PSL matches for the first time – a milestone moment for the city. The venue had been upgraded and prepared for international-level cricket, but the current situation has cast a shadow over those plans.

Foreign player concerns grow as PSL 2026 faces uncertainty

The ripple effects go far beyond just one fixture. Several high-profile Australian players – including Steve Smith, David Warner, Marnus Labuschagne and Glenn Maxwell- are expected to participate in the league, along with coaching staff like Tim Paine and Jason Gillespie. But with security concerns mounting, their participation – especially in matches involving Peshawar – remains uncertain.

PCB Chairman Mohsin Naqvi has stepped in to calm nerves, even offering extreme contingency measures. According to reports, he assured that players could be evacuated via private jets if needed. However, that hasn’t fully eased concerns, particularly given recent global instances where airspace closures left players stranded during conflicts.

At the same time, the situation has already led to a wider impact on player participation. Several Afghan cricketers – including Mujeeb Ur Rahman, Mohammad Nabi  and Fazal Haq Farooqi – have distanced themselves from the league amid rising tensions. Their decisions reflect how deeply the geopolitical situation is now influencing cricketing commitments.

Also READ: Rashid Khan and other Afghanistan cricketers slam Pakistan for deadly air strike in Kabul

Pakistan, meanwhile, has denied targeting civilian infrastructure in Kabul, stating that its operations were aimed at military installations. But conflicting reports and the scale of casualties have kept tensions high, adding to the uncertainty around the tournament.

All of this comes at a crucial moment for the PSL, which is expanding to eight teams and aiming to deliver one of its biggest seasons yet. Matches are scheduled across multiple cities, including debut venues like Peshawar and Faisalabad. However, the focus has now shifted from cricket to security.

As things stand, the PCB faces a tough balancing act – ensuring player safety while trying to keep the tournament on track. The coming days will be critical in determining whether PSL 2026 proceeds smoothly or undergoes major last-minute changes.

Also READ: Here’s the list of players of unsold in IPL 2026 but picked in PSL auction

The landscape of global cricket is currently witnessing a massive ideological collision between corporate expansion and national sentiment. Indian cricket legend Sunil Gavaskar has sparked a nationwide debate by sharply criticizing the acquisition of Pakistani spinner Abrar Ahmed by SunRisers Leeds, a franchise owned by the same Indian entity behind the IPL’s SunRisers Hyderabad.

The controversy erupted during the inaugural men’s draft for The Hundred in London, where Ahmed was secured for £190,000. While the signing took place in a UK-based league, Gavaskar argues that the origin of the capital, the pockets of Indian owners carries a moral and patriotic weight that cannot be ignored.

Sunil Gavaskar blasts Indian franchise owners for signing Pakistani players

In a scathing column, Gavaskar did not mince words, articulating a perspective held by many since the 2008 Mumbai terror attacks. His primary contention is that any financial transaction involving Pakistani athletes indirectly funds the Pakistani state via income tax. This revenue, he argues, is ultimately diverted toward military expenditures that result in Indian casualties.

“Whether it is an Indian entity or an overseas subsidiary… if the owner is Indian, then he or she is contributing to Indian casualties. It’s as simple as that,” Gavaskar stated. He further questioned the priorities of the SunRisers management, headed by Kavya Maran, asking if winning a trophy in a niche format like The Hundred is “more important than Indian lives.”

The backlash has been swift and digital. The SunRisers Leeds social media accounts faced temporary suspension following a deluge of protests. Gavaskar suggested that the international coaching staff, led by New Zealander Daniel Vettori, might lack the historical context of the Indo-Pak geopolitical tension, but he maintained that the Indian owners should have exercised “wiser counsel” to prevent the purchase.

Also READ: Sunrisers Leeds’ X handle suspended amid controversy surrounding Abrar Ahmed signing in The Hundred 2026 auction

Potential boycotts and the BCCI’s stance on foreign leagues

The implications of this signing extend far beyond the cricket pitch. Gavaskar warned that the franchise could face a total PR nightmare, predicting that Indian fans globally might boycott matches or hold massive demonstrations wherever the team plays. This sentiment taps into the long-standing policy of the Indian Premier League (IPL), which has barred Pakistani players since the inaugural 2008 season.

Despite the public outcry, the Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI) has maintained a distance from the controversy. Vice-President Rajeev Shukla recently clarified that the Board has no legal jurisdiction to intervene in signings related to foreign leagues. This leaves the moral and financial responsibility squarely on the shoulders of the private franchise owners.

As the debate intensifies, the following key points remain at the center of the storm:

• National Sentiment: The belief that sports cannot be divorced from national security.
• Corporate Accountability: Whether Indian companies should adhere to domestic political norms when operating on foreign soil.
• Brand Value: The risk of SunRisers Hyderabad’s domestic popularity being tarnished by the actions of its UK affiliate.

With the tournament approaching, the pressure is mounting on the SunRisers management to address the wrong as described by Gavaskar.

Also READ: BCCI vice-president Rajeev Shukla breaks silence on Sunrisers Leeds’ move to sign Pakistan’s Abrar Ahmed in The Hundred 2026

With the Indian Premier League (IPL) 2026 set to kick off on March 28, former Chennai Super Kings (CSK) star Suresh Raina has stirred conversation by revealing his predicted playing XI for the Rajasthan Royals (RR). His selections include a few bold calls – most notably placing Ravindra Jadeja at No. 4 and hinting at the possible omission of Sam Curran.

With Rajasthan set to open their campaign against CSK on March 30 at the Barsapara Stadium in Guwahati, Raina’s XI offers a fascinating glimpse into how the inaugural champions might shape up this season.

Suresh Raina names RR’s playing XI for IPL 2026

Raina began with a strong and exciting opening pair – young sensation Vaibhav Suryavanshi alongside Yashasvi Jaiswal. The teenage prodigy Suryavanshi, fresh off a remarkable U19 World Cup campaign, is already making headlines for his fearless batting and big ambitions. Pairing him with Jaiswal gives RR an aggressive left-handed opening combination capable of dominating powerplays.

At No. 3, Raina placed captain Riyan Parag, calling him an attacking option who can break the rhythm after two left-handers at the top. With Parag stepping into a leadership role following Sanju Samson’s move to CSK, the responsibility on his shoulders will be significant.

The biggest surprise in Raina’s XI comes at No. 4, where he slotted in Ravindra Jadeja. Traditionally known as a lower-order finisher, Jadeja’s promotion suggests a more strategic role in stabilizing innings while maintaining scoring momentum.

“Ravindra Jadeja could easily slot in at No. 4,” said Raina.

This move indicates Raina’s belief in Jadeja’s ability to anchor the innings while also accelerating when required—a role that could add flexibility to RR’s batting lineup.

In the middle order, Shimron Hetmyer takes the No. 5 spot as the designated finisher. Known for his explosive hitting, Hetmyer remains a key asset in closing out innings strongly. Behind him, Dhruv Jurel is expected to handle wicketkeeping duties while adding stability at No. 6.

Also READ: IPL 2026 – Irfan Pathan explains why Sanju Samson will be a huge advantage for CSK in the clash against RR

RR’s bowling strategy

One of the most talked-about aspects of Raina’s predicted XI is the uncertainty around Sam Curran’s place in the team. Despite being a high-profile all-rounder, Raina suggested that RR might opt for a different overseas combination.

“I feel this is the team that will play. Maybe they won’t play Sam Curran, and Ferreira can come in,” he added.

This opens the door for Donovan Ferreira to feature instead, depending on team balance and match conditions. It’s a tough call, considering Curran’s all-round abilities, but one that reflects the competition for overseas spots in the squad.

Raina’s overseas picks include Hetmyer, Jofra Archer, Nandre Burger, and either Curran or Ferreira. This combination leans toward a strong pace attack, particularly suited to Guwahati conditions.

The bowling unit, as predicted by Raina, is heavily pace-oriented. Alongside Archer and Burger, he included Tushar Deshpande and Sandeep Sharma. This four-seamer setup suggests RR may look to exploit pace-friendly surfaces early in the tournament.

As the Impact Player, Raina chose Ravi Bishnoi, giving the team the option to introduce spin depending on match situations. Bishnoi’s ability to pick wickets in the middle overs makes him a valuable tactical weapon.

Also WATCH: Sanju Samson hilariously mimics Vaibhav Suryavanshi while recalling his IPL chat with Rahul Dravid

The National T20 Cup 2026 witnessed a moment of sheer disbelief on March 14, during the Group B clash between Karachi Region Blues and Lahore Region Blues. While the match at the Imran Khan Cricket Stadium in Peshawar was high-scoring and intense, the primary talking point wasn’t the boundary count, but a single delivery from young pacer Asad Akhtar that has since gone viral for all the wrong reasons.

Asad Akhtar under microscope for extraordinary no-ball in National T20 Cup 2026

In what can only be described as a lapse in spatial awareness, Akhtar delivered a front-foot no-ball so massive that it left commentators and fans stunned. In a sport where margins are usually measured in centimetres, Akhtar’s overstep was measured in nearly a full stride. Social media was quick to draw parallels to the infamous 2010 Lord’s scandal involving Mohammad Amir; however, many observers noted that Akhtar’s foot landed significantly further beyond the popping crease than Amir’s ever did.

Representing Karachi Region Blues, the inexperienced right-arm pacer had a nightmare outing. Entrusted with the ball, Akhtar struggled with his rhythm from the start, conceding 21 runs in his solitary over. His discipline wavered significantly, as he leaked two wides and two no-balls.

The giant no-ball occurred mid-over, where his front foot landed so far past the line that his back foot was nearly touching the bowling crease. For a young player who only made his debut earlier this year, the error highlighted the immense pressure of the National T20 circuit. Akhtar’s statistics currently reflect these growing pains; in his five career T20 appearances, he has maintained an economy rate of 9.14, which has ballooned to 11.25 during the current tournament. While there is no evidence of anything beyond a technical blunder, the sheer scale of the overstep has placed his bowling action and temperament under heavy scrutiny by fans and analysts alike.

A 25 year old Pakistani pacer, Asad Akhtar, bowled a shocking no ball in their ongoing premium domestic T20 tournament and it looked ridiculously suspicious. Spot fixing again. pic.twitter.com/zFRzScLFLx

— Kakarot (@MidOffMind) March 15, 2026

Also READ: Mohammad Hafeez picks 2 players who can replace Babar Azam in Pakistan’s ODI lineup

Karachi Region Blues dominate Lahore Region Blues despite Akhtar’s expensive spell

Fortunately for the young pacer, his expensive over proved to be a mere footnote in an otherwise clinical performance by Karachi Region Blues. Despite the 21-run gift to Lahore, Karachi’s massive total and disciplined bowling attack ensured an emphatic 57-run victory, solidifying their standing in Group B.

After being put in to bat, Karachi’s top order fired on all cylinders to post a daunting 206/3. The protagonist of the innings was Saad Baig, who played a blistering, unbeaten knock of 72 off just 37 balls, decorated with seven fours and four towering sixes. Contributions from Ahsan Ali (39) and Usman Rahim (33) provided the necessary platform for the late-innings fireworks.

Lahore’s chase never truly found its rhythm. The duo of Jahandad Khan and the experienced Shahnawaz Dahani dismantled the batting lineup, picking up four wickets each. Lahore Region Blues were eventually bundled out for 149 in 17.3 overs. This victory moves Karachi to fourth place in the standings with four points, providing a vital boost to their net run rate as the tournament progresses toward the knockout stages.

Also READ: Pakistan lodge complaint over controversial DRS call as Bangladesh clinch series with thrilling win in 3rd ODI

The cricketing world was shaken after reports emerged of a devastating airstrike by Pakistan in Kabul that took hundreds of lives. Members of the Afghanistan cricket team were among the first to react, with several players voicing grief, anger and calls for accountability following the incident.

The strike reportedly targeted the Omid Addiction Treatment Hospital, a major rehabilitation centre in the Afghan capital. With over 400 people feared dead and hundreds injured, the tragedy has triggered strong reactions not just politically, but also within the sporting community – especially from Afghan cricketers who have long served as global ambassadors for their nation.

Rashid Khan leads outrage, calls for UN investigation

Star spinner Rashid Khan led the condemnation, using social media platform X to demand justice and highlight the severity of the incident. The former T20I captain did not hold back, describing the attack in stark terms and urging global authorities to intervene.

“I am deeply saddened by the latest reports of civilian casualties as a result of Pakistani airstrikes in Kabul. Targeting civilian homes, educational facilities or medical infrastructure, either intentional or by mistake, is a war crime,” Rashid wrote.

He further emphasized the emotional weight of the tragedy, especially given its timing during Ramadan – a period of reflection and peace for Muslims worldwide.

“The sheer disregard for human lives, especially during the holy month of Ramadan, is sickening and deeply concerning. It will only fuel division and hatred,” he added.

Rashid also called upon international bodies to act swiftly. He urged the United Nations and human rights organizations to “thoroughly investigate this latest atrocity and hold the perpetrators to account.”

Ending on a note of resilience, he expressed solidarity with his fellow citizens: “I stand with my Afghan people in this difficult time. We shall heal, and we will rise as a nation. We always do. Inshallah!”

I am deeply saddened by the latest reports of civilian casualties as a result of Pakistani airstrikes in Kabul. Targeting civilian homes, educational facilities or medical infrastructure, either intentional or by mistake, is a war crime. The sheer disregard for human lives,… pic.twitter.com/DbFRRh2qAJ

— Rashid Khan (@rashidkhan_19) March 16, 2026

Rashid was not alone in his response. Veteran all-rounder Mohammad Nabi shared a deeply emotional message that resonated widely across social media.

“Tonight in Kabul, hope was extinguished at a hospital. Young men seeking treatment were murdered in a bombing by the Pakistani military regime.”

He described the human cost in heartbreaking detail: “Mothers waited at the gates, calling their sons’ names. On the 28th night of Ramadan, their lives were cut short.”

His words highlighted the tragic irony of a medical facility – meant for healing – becoming the site of such devastation.

Tonight in Kabul, hope was extinguished at a hospital. Young men seeking treatment were murdered in a bombing by the Pakistani military regime. Mothers waited at the gates, calling their sons’ names. On the 28th night of Ramadan, their lives were cut short. pic.twitter.com/p12617D4de

— Mohammad Nabi (@MohammadNabi007) March 16, 2026

New T20I captain Ibrahim Zadran offered a personal account, revealing that he was in Kabul when the explosion occurred.

“Tonight I heard a massive explosion here in Kabul. Moments later we saw flames rising into the sky from a hospital.”

He added a poignant reflection on the timing of the attack: “Our brothers who intended to fast tomorrow are now gone, or wounded. My thoughts are with every family grieving tonight. Kabul is in pain. We pray for justice.”

Tonight I heard a massive explosion here in Kabul. Moments later we saw flames rising into the sky from a hospital.

Our brothers who intended to fast tomorrow are now gone, or wounded. My thoughts are with every family grieving tonight.

Kabul is in pain. We pray for justice.

— Ibrahim Zadran (@IZadran18) March 16, 2026

Reactions of other Afghan players 

Other Afghan cricketers also joined the chorus of condemnation. Fast bowler Naveen-ul-Haq drew comparisons with other global conflicts, while Wafadar Momand described the hospital as a “house of humanity,” calling the strike a grave violation of ethics and human values.

Naveen Ul Haq’s Facebook post. pic.twitter.com/1BCMWg9PlS

— WarMonitor (@WarMonitorINTL) March 17, 2026

All-rounder Gulbadin Naib expressed solidarity with affected families, stressing unity and resilience in the face of tragedy. Meanwhile, young spinner Noor Ahmad summed up the collective grief in a single word: “Heartbreaking.”

Also READ: Afghanistan unveil squads for the white-ball series against Sri Lanka; Ibrahim Zadran appointed new T20I captain

Meanwhile, Afghanistan Cricket Board (ACB) posted a series of tweets to condemn the attack and also mentioned that they stand in solidarity with the affected families and their people during this difficult time.

Eid Hopes Turned Into Mourning

Afghanistan Cricket Board’s leadership, along with the #AfghanAtalan lineup and staff, strongly condemns all acts of violence against innocent people. We stand in solidarity with the affected families and our people during this difficult time. 1/4 pic.twitter.com/oN1vknQiod

— Afghanistan Cricket Board (@ACBofficials) March 17, 2026

What should have been moments of joy and celebration have instead turned into grief and heartbreak. Lives that were looking forward to Eid, to healing, and to a brighter tomorrow were tragically cut short, leaving behind shattered dreams and grieving families. 2/4

— Afghanistan Cricket Board (@ACBofficials) March 17, 2026

The Pakistani regime’s devastating attack on a rehabilitation facility, resulting in the loss of hundreds of innocent lives and injuries to countless others, has deeply saddened us all. The occurrence of such a tragedy during Ramadan makes the pain even more profound. 3/4

— Afghanistan Cricket Board (@ACBofficials) March 17, 2026

We ask the Almighty Allah to grant the victims the highest ranks in Jannah and bless their families with patience, strength, and peace.

Indeed, we belong to Allah, and to Him we shall return.#ACB 4/4

— Afghanistan Cricket Board (@ACBofficials) March 17, 2026

According to officials, the airstrike occurred around 9:00 pm local time and caused widespread destruction across the hospital complex. Rescue operations continued through the night, with fears that the death toll could rise further as teams searched through the debris.

While investigations and official responses are awaited, one thing is clear – the emotional impact of this incident has gone far beyond the boundaries of cricket, uniting players and fans alike in grief and solidarity.

Also READ: IPL 2026 – Here’s why KKR have no replacements for Harshit Rana and Matheesha Pathirana

As the IPL 2026 season opener on March 28 approaches, the Kolkata Knight Riders (KKR) find themselves in a precarious tactical position. Despite losing their primary Indian pacer Harshit Rana to a long-term injury and facing extreme uncertainty regarding their INR 18 crore asset, Matheesha Pathirana, the franchise has reportedly decided against seeking immediate replacements. This calculated gamble signals a shift in KKR’s strategy, moving away from impulsive market raids toward a philosophy of internal trust and rehabilitation-led patience.

Reason behind no replacements for KKR

The loss of Harshit Rana is a significant blow to KKR’s bowling equilibrium. After a stellar 2024 campaign with 19 wickets and a follow-up of 15 scalps in 2025, Rana had evolved into more than just a wicket-taker; he was the Indian stabilizer who allowed the team to rotate its overseas slots with flexibility. His recent knee surgery in February 2026, following a ligament strain during a T20 World Cup warm-up against South Africa, has effectively ruled him out for the bulk of the season.

However, KKR’s refusal to sign a replacement is rooted in their recent auction strategy. The franchise intentionally stocked up on high-ceiling Indian pace talent, bringing in Akash Deep, Umran Malik, and Kartik Tyagi to join the reliable Vaibhav Arora. By backing this quartet, KKR believe they can absorb Rana’s absence without disrupting the squad’s core chemistry. The management views this as an opportunity for Malik to rediscover his 150 kmph rhythm or for Deep to translate his Test-match discipline into T20 consistency. In a market where quality Indian seamers are scarce, KKR is betting that the answers are already in their locker room.

Also READ: Suresh Raina suggests the perfect batting slot for Rinku Singh at Kolkata Knight Riders (KKR) ahead of IPL 2026

Why KKR are holding their nerve on Matheesha Pathirana for IPL 2026?

While Rana’s absence is a definitive out, the situation surrounding Pathirana is a wait and watch. The Sri Lankan ‘Baby Malinga,’ who was KKR’s marquee signing at the 2026 mini-auction for a staggering INR 18 crore, suffered a calf strain during the T20 World Cup. Initial reports suggested a lengthy layoff, but recent developments have injected a dose of optimism into the Knight Riders’ camp.

Pathirana’s manager recently shared images of the pacer in KKR colours, hinting at a recovery that is ahead of schedule. By not naming a replacement, KKR is protecting Pathirana’s slot, knowing that his unique slingy action and death-over mastery are irreplaceable. To bring in an overseas replacement now would mean legally releasing Pathirana for the season, a risk the management is unwilling to take given the massive financial and tactical investment.

The arrival of Zimbabwe’s Blessing Muzarabani, who replaced the released Mustafizur Rahman further eases the pressure. Muzarabani’s ability to extract steep bounce provides a different dimension, allowing KKR the luxury of time. As they prepare to face Mumbai Indians on March 29 at the Wankhede, the Knights are choosing stability over activity, trusting that their disrupted pace attack still has enough variety to lead them back to the playoffs.

Also READ: “Anil bhai at 8…”: Virat Kohli names his greatest RCB playing XI featuring iconic leg spinner ahead of IPL 2026