Team India won the ICC Men’s T20 World Cup 2026, after beating New Zealand by 96 runs in the final, at the Narendra Modi Stadium, Ahmedabad. The Men in Blue became the first side to win the competition in two back-to-back editions. They also became the first nation to win the tournament at home and won the title three times.

The celebrations have not been stopped as the cricketers are getting a grand welcome as they return to their homes. Gautam Gambhir and Suryakumar Yadav were spotted visiting a mandir in Mumbai after the T20 World Cup win. There was a victory parade organised as well in Mumbai. Gambhir’s record of not losing an ICC knockout game remained perfect.

India’s unique World Cup connection

However, there has been an interesting thing connected to India’s success in winning the ICC World Cup trophy over the years. Since 1983 India’s first World Cup win, till the 2026 T20 World Cup, one Punjab-born cricketer and another Kerala-born cricketer have been in the squad every time the Men in Blue won the World Cups.

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In 1983, Sunil Valson and Balwinder Singh Sandu were present on the side; in 2011, it was Harbhajan Singh and S Sreesanth who were present. In the 2024 edition, Sanju Samson and Arshdeep Singh were present in the squad, and in this edition, Samson and Arshdeep were also present in the squad.

If there is Mallu in the Indian team, we will win the ICC Trophy- Varun Chakravarthy

During the Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI) Naman Awards, Varun Chakravarthy took a funny dig at this unique connection. He said, “There was a meme going on, if there is Mallu in the Indian team, we will win the ICC Trophy so it was a master stroke to bring Sanju in the 11”.

Varun Chakravarthy said “There was a meme going on, if there is Mallu in the Indian team, we will win the ICC Trophy so it was a master stroke to bring Sanju in the 11”. pic.twitter.com/lVFNM3P821

— Johns. (@CricCrazyJohns) March 15, 2026

Sanju Samson was excellent throughout the tournament. The wicket-keeper batter was the Player of the Tournament for his phenomenal run in the tournament. He was not part of the playing XI during the initial match; he was in and out due to Abhishek Sharma’s stomach bug. After India’s loss to South Africa, Samson was brought back into the side.

Sanju Samson is the hero for India’s success

After that, Sanju Samson never turned back, scoring three back-to-back fifties in India’s most crucial games, scoring 97* against the West Indies in a must win SUper 8 game, 89 in the semi-final against England, and 89 in the final against New Zealand. Sanju finished off the campaign as the leading run getter for India with 321 runs, with an average of 80.25.

After scoring 321 runs, he also became the first batter to go past Virat Kohli’s most runs (314) in a T20 World Cup edition. Sanju will next be seen during the TATA Indian Premier League (IPL) for Chennai Super Kings (CSK).

Varun Chakravarthy also had a brilliant T20 World Cup, picking up 14 wickets and was the joint-highest wicket-taker in the tournament alongside Jasprit Bumrah. Chakravarthy and Bumrah will now be seen playing against each other for the Kolkata Knight Riders and the Mumbai Indians.

Also Read: Good news for KKR! Cameron Green returns to form with stunning ton

South Africa began their tour of New Zealand on a winning note with a comfortable seven-wicket victory over the hosts in the first T20I at Bay Oval. After electing to bat, the hosts struggled badly against disciplined South African bowling and were bowled out for just 91 runs in 14.3 overs. South Africa then chased down the modest target with 93/3 in 16.4 overs, with Connor Esterhuizen anchoring the innings to guide his side to victory.

Nqobani Mokoena shine as bowlers dominate New Zealand

New Zealand’s decision to bat first did not go according to plan as South Africa’s bowlers struck early and never allowed the hosts to settle. The top order collapsed quickly with Devon Conway (1), Tom Latham (7), Tim Robinson (6), and Nick Kelly (2) all falling cheaply.

Bevon Jacobs tried to provide a brief spark with 10 off 7 balls, including a six, but the innings continued to lose momentum with wickets falling at regular intervals. The responsibility then shifted to the middle order where James Neesham played the most notable knock, scoring 26 off 21 balls with two fours and a six.

Mitchell Santner contributed 15 runs from 19 balls, while Cole McConchie chipped in with 15 from 11 deliveries, but none of the batters managed to build a significant partnership. New Zealand eventually folded for 91 runs in 14.3 overs, a total that looked well below par on the Bay Oval surface.

South Africa’s bowling attack shared the spoils. Nqobani Mokoena was the standout performer, claiming 3 wickets for 26 runs in 3.3 overs. Gerald Coetzee delivered an impressive spell of 2/14, while Ottniel Baartman and Keshav Maharaj also picked up two wickets each, ensuring New Zealand never gained control of the innings.

Also READ: Amelia Kerr, Sophie Devine lead New Zealand to comfortable win over South Africa in 1st T20I

Connor Esterhuizen anchors steady chase for South Africa

Chasing a modest target of 92, South Africa had a cautious start but lost Tony de Zorzi early for just 2 runs. However, opener Esterhuizen played a composed innings, holding the chase together with a patient 45 off 48 balls, including two fours and two sixes.

Rubin Hermann added some quick runs with 7 off 6 balls, while Jason Smith contributed 10 from 14 deliveries. After a couple of wickets slowed the chase slightly, Dian Forrester remained calm at the crease, finishing with 16 runs off 25 balls as South Africa steadily approached the target.

Despite the slow nature of the chase, the visitors remained in control and eventually reached 93/3 in 16.4 overs, sealing the win with plenty of balls to spare.

New Zealand bowlers tried to make the contest competitive despite the small total. Captain Santner produced an economical spell, finishing with 1/8 in four overs, which kept the pressure on South Africa during the middle overs. Zakary Foulkes also impressed with 1/8 from two overs, while Kyle Jamieson picked up one wicket though he was slightly expensive. However, the low target meant South Africa could afford to play cautiously and avoid unnecessary risks.

A clinical win for South Africa in the first T20I against New Zealand 👏#NZvsSA #CricketTwitter pic.twitter.com/YotvAbRIzF

— CricketTimes.com (@CricketTimesHQ) March 15, 2026

Also READ: NZ vs SA T20I Series: Date, Match Time, Broadcast and Live Streaming details

The excitement surrounding the upcoming edition of the Indian Premier League (IPL) is steadily building, with franchises finalizing their combinations and strategies ahead of the 2026 season. Among the teams attracting significant attention are the five-time champions Mumbai Indians, who appear determined to reclaim their dominance in the tournament.

Mumbai will begin their campaign on March 29, 2026, when they take on Kolkata Knight Riders (KKR) at the iconic Wankhede Stadium. After finishing fourth in the previous season, MI have entered the new campaign with a clear objective — to secure their record-extending sixth IPL title. The franchise has retained a stable leadership group with Hardik Pandya continuing as captain.

With experienced Indian stars like Rohit Sharma, Suryakumar Yadav, and Jasprit Bumrah forming the backbone of the squad, Mumbai Indians appear to have assembled one of the most balanced teams heading into the tournament.

Harbhajan Singh reveals his preferred overseas players for Mumbai Indians

Former India spinner Harbhajan Singh has shared his views on which overseas players Mumbai Indians should field in their playing XI during IPL 2026. Speaking on Star Sports, Harbhajan suggested that the team’s overseas combination should start with a wicketkeeper-batter. According to him, either Quinton de Kock or Ryan Rickelton should open the innings for the franchise. Bhajji then went with two overseas bowling options in the form of Trent Boult and Allah Ghazanfar.

“To start with, either Quinton de Kock or Ryan Rickelton will play and start in the XI. Then we will go down to the bowlers. Trent Boult, obviously, will be the second one who will play. Allah Ghazanfar is someone who will definitely be in that squad,” Harbhajan said.

Harbhajan also highlighted the flexibility available for the fourth overseas slot. He suggested that the decision could depend on pitch conditions and match situations.

“One more player, it could be Rutherford or Will Jacks. If I were part of the management, I would be very keen to play Rutherford, and depending on the surfaces, of course. If we are playing in Chennai, I would like to play Will Jacks there because he can bowl a few overs as well for you,” Bhajji added.

Also READ: T20 World Cup 2026 glory – Indian players who are also IPL champions

Why Mumbai Indians could be strong IPL 2026 title contenders

Mumbai Indians’ squad composition suggests they could once again be among the strongest contenders for the IPL 2026 title. The franchise has successfully reunited what many fans call their ‘Golden Core’ — Rohit, Hardik, Suryakumar, and Bumrah. This experienced Indian backbone provides MI with a leadership advantage few teams can match. Each of these players has proven match-winning abilities and vast experience in high-pressure situations.

Another crucial boost for Mumbai is the return of left-arm pacer Boult, whose partnership with Bumrah has historically been one of the most dangerous new-ball combinations in the league. Boult’s ability to strike early in the powerplay complements Bumrah’s lethal death bowling perfectly.

The addition of experienced wicketkeeper-batter De Kock strengthens the top order, while all-round options such as Shardul Thakur bring valuable depth to the squad.

Also READ: IPL 2026: Mumbai Indians responds to claims of Hardik Pandya issuing a warning to Rohit Sharma

Former India cricketer and commentator Aakash Chopra has highlighted a potential weakness in the Gujarat Titans (GT) squad ahead of the Indian Premier League (IPL) 2026 season. According to Chopra, the franchise may face challenges due to its heavy dependence on the top-order batters, particularly if one of their key players fails to deliver consistently.

The Gujarat-based franchise enjoyed a solid campaign in IPL 2025, reaching the playoffs after impressive performances from Shubman Gill, Sai Sudharsan, and Jos Buttler at the top of the order. However, their journey ended in the Eliminator after a defeat to the Mumbai Indians, with Buttler unavailable for the match due to national commitments. As the team prepares for the upcoming season, Chopra believes their reliance on the top three could become a vulnerability.

Aakash Chopra explains weakness of Gujarat Titans ahead of IPL 2026

The success of Gujarat Titans last season was largely built on the consistency of their top-order batters. Captain Gill led from the front, while Sudharsan continued to grow into one of the most reliable young batters in the tournament. Meanwhile, Buttler provided the explosive firepower expected from him in the shortest format.

Chopra noted that the team performed best when the top three managed to bat deep into the innings. When at least one of them stayed at the crease until the middle overs, the Titans were able to build strong platforms for competitive totals.

Chopra explained that the team’s approach worked well last season but could become risky if the top order fails to fire regularly. He pointed out that the ideal scenario for Gujarat Titans is when the top three occupy the crease until the 14th or 15th over, ensuring stability and momentum in the innings. However, relying too heavily on this strategy could leave the middle order exposed if early wickets fall.

“What are their weakenesses? They can be called weaknesses or challenges. A slight overdependence is still seen on the top three. It’s great if they replicate what they did last year, which means the top three together bat till the 14th or 15th over, and at least one of them should 100 percent be there till the 15th over,” Chopra said on his YouTube channel.

Also READ: IPL 2026: 3 players who can replace injured Harshit Rana in Kolkata Knight Riders squad

Star batter’s recent form raises concerns

Another factor Chopra highlighted was Buttler’s recent dip in form during the T20 World Cup 2026. The England star had an unusually quiet tournament, scoring only 87 runs in eight innings at an average of 10.88.

For a player known for dominating bowlers across conditions, the numbers were surprising. Chopra remarked that it was rare to see Buttler struggle to such an extent in a World Cup tournament. He also noted that the right-handed batter appeared uncomfortable even on batting-friendly pitches, which raised questions about whether the slump could carry into the IPL season.

According to Chopra, Gujarat Titans would ideally want Buttler to provide explosive starts alongside Gill. However, if the English wicketkeeper-batter continues to struggle, the team might face difficulties at the top of the order.

“However, the truth is that Jos Buttler’s current form is very, very pedestrian. We have not seen Jos Buttler playing more ordinary than this in any World Cup edition. He was seen struggling in good conditions this time. So will that be a bit of an issue for the Gujarat Titans? You want to start with Jos Buttler, but what if the form doesn’t remain good? Both openers can’t score runs every time,” Chopra added.

Also WATCH: MS Dhoni repairs his bat using an electric sander during IPL 2026 practice session

On the occasion of their fifth wedding anniversary, ICC Digital Insider Sanjana Ganesan melted hearts across social media with a loving tribute to her husband, Indian pace spearhead Jasprit Bumrah. The couple, who tied the knot on March 15, 2021, in a private ceremony, has since become one of the most adored pairs in the cricketing world, and Sanjana’s heartfelt post offered fans a rare glimpse into their enduring bond.

“My favourite story, always and forever”: Sanjana Ganesan’s heartfelt Instagram post

Taking to Instagram on their fifth marriage wrote: “no matter where life takes us,
no matter how loud the world gets, there’s always this – you, me and a hug that feels like home. Five years married to my best friend. My favourite story, always and forever. A Love Story Born on the Cricket Field.”

Sanjana and Bumrah’s love story has its roots in the game that brought them together. The couple first met during the ICC Cricket World Cup 2019 in England, where Sanjana was working as a presenter and Bumrah was starring for India. Their professional paths crossed repeatedly over the following months, with their connection blossoming into romance.

After nearly two years of dating, the couple surprised fans by announcing their engagement in February 2021. They followed up with an intimate wedding ceremony on March 15 that same year at a resort in Goa, attended only by close family members due to COVID-19 restrictions. The low-key affair stood in stark contrast to the grand cricketing weddings the sport has often witnessed, reflecting the couple’s preference for privacy.

In September 2023, the couple welcomed their first child, a son named Angad. Bumrah, who had been recovering from a back injury at the time, took a brief paternity break before returning to international cricket. Since becoming parents, both Sanjana and Bumrah have occasionally shared glimpses of their family life, carefully balancing public affection with their desire to keep Angad away from the spotlight.

Also: Explained – Why Michael Vaughan called South Africa ‘the stupidest team’ of T20 World Cup 2026?

Bumrah’s stellar form: From T20 World Cup glory to personal milestones

The anniversary celebration comes at the peak of Bumrah’s professional career. Just one week ago, the 32-year-old pacer delivered a match-winning spell of 4/15 in the T20 World Cup 2026 final against New Zealand at Ahmedabad’s Narendra Modi Stadium, earning the Player of the Match award and cementing his legacy as one of India’s greatest match-winners. He also finished as the tournament’s joint-leading wicket-taker alongside Varun Chakravarthy, with 14 scalps at an astonishing average of 12.43.

Meanwhile, for Sanjana, the past year has been equally eventful. She has established herself as one of the ICC’s most prominent presenters, covering major tournaments worldwide while also hosting her own cricket podcast. Her professional commitments have occasionally overlapped with Bumrah’s playing schedule – most notably during the 2025 tour of Australia, where Sanjana conducted several on-field interviews with her husband, much to fans’ delight.

Also READ: Former RCB coach takes blind rank challenge, puts Virat Kohli at No. 5 among 6 IPL captains

Former India and Chennai Super Kings (CSK) pacer Mohit Sharma has unveiled his all-time playing XI for the franchise ahead of the IPL 2026 season, sparking discussion among fans with a few notable selections and omissions. The experienced seamer shared his choices during a conversation on Cricbuzz, putting together a star-studded lineup dominated by players who played crucial roles in CSK’s most successful years.

Interestingly, Mohit chose to leave out former CSK opener Murali Vijay, despite the batter’s strong record for the franchise. Vijay scored 1708 runs in 70 innings for Chennai and was part of several memorable campaigns, but Mohit opted for a different opening combination to start his all-time side.

Mohit Sharma’s all-time CSK playing XI

A solid opening pair

Mohit picked former Australian stalwart Michael Hussey and current CSK skipper Ruturaj Gaikwad as his opening duo. Hussey was one of the most dependable batters in the early years of the franchise and played 50 matches for CSK, amassing 1768 runs that included 13 half-centuries and a century. Known for his calm presence and consistency, Hussey played a key role in strengthening the top order during Chennai’s dominant phase.

Joining him at the top is Gaikwad, one of the modern pillars of the franchise. Since making his debut in 2020, the elegant right-hander has become a central figure in CSK’s batting lineup. Gaikwad has scored 2502 runs in 70 innings for the team, registering 20 fifties and two centuries while leading the side in the current era.

Star power in the middle order

At number three, Mohit selected former South Africa captain Faf du Plessis, who was instrumental in multiple successful campaigns for Chennai. Du Plessis scored 2721 runs for the franchise and played a key role in two title-winning seasons with his aggressive yet composed batting style.

The middle order continues with CSK legend Suresh Raina, widely regarded as one of the greatest players in the history of the franchise. Raina remains CSK’s second-highest run-scorer with 4687 runs in 171 innings and was a vital figure in their dominance across several IPL seasons.

Former India batter Ambati Rayudu was chosen at number five. Rayudu played a significant role in Chennai’s success during his stint with the franchise, scoring 1932 runs in 80 innings and helping the team secure three IPL titles.

MS Dhoni leads a powerful all round core

No CSK lineup would be complete without MS Dhoni, and Mohit appointed the legendary wicketkeeper as captain of his all-time XI. Under Dhoni’s leadership, Chennai Super Kings lifted five IPL titles and established themselves as one of the most consistent teams in the league. Dhoni also remains the franchise’s highest run-scorer with 4865 runs in 215 innings, including 22 half-centuries.

The all-round strength of the side begins with Ravindra Jadeja at number seven. Jadeja played 186 matches for CSK, contributing 2198 runs and taking 143 wickets while providing exceptional fielding and balance to the side.

Also WATCH: MS Dhoni repairs his bat using an electric sander during IPL 2026 practice session

A bowling attack packed with match winners

In the bowling department, Mohit included veteran off-spinner Ravichandran Ashwin, who picked up 97 wickets in 106 matches during his time with the Super Kings.

West Indies all-rounder Dwayne Bravo also made the cut. Bravo was one of the most impactful players in CSK’s history, scoring 1004 runs and claiming 140 wickets in 116 matches while helping the franchise win three IPL titles.

Former South Africa all-rounder Albie Morkel was placed at number ten. Morkel was known for his explosive hitting and useful medium pace, scoring 827 runs and taking 76 wickets in 78 matches for Chennai. The lineup is completed by swing specialist Deepak Chahar, who represented CSK between 2018 and 2024 and claimed 76 wickets in 76 innings with his new-ball brilliance.

Mohit Sharma’s all time CSK XI: Michael Hussey, Ruturaj Gaikwad, Faf du Plessis, Suresh Raina, Ambati Rayudu, MS Dhoni (c/wk), Ravindra Jadeja, Ravichandran Ashwin, Dwayne Bravo, Albie Morkel, Deepak Chahar.

Also READ: Ahead of IPL 2026, Sun TV takes CSK to court – here’s the reason

As the Indian Premier League (IPL) 2026 approaches, Mumbai Indians (MI) have found themselves addressing rumours off the field. The five-time champions recently dismissed speculation suggesting tension between captain Hardik Pandya and veteran opener Rohit Sharma.

The franchise was forced to respond after a viral social media post claimed Pandya had issued a strict performance warning to Rohit ahead of the upcoming season. The rumour quickly spread online, sparking debates among fans about whether there was a rift between the two senior players.

Viral rumour sparks debate of rift between Hardik Pandya and Rohit Sharma

The controversy began when a post on X (formerly Twitter) suggested that Pandya has delivered a strong message to Rohit regarding his performances. According to the viral claim, the MI captain has informed the team management that there would be no tolerance for poor performances.

The post stated: “Hardik Pandya has informed the management that there will be no tolerance this time if Rohit fails to deliver.”

It further alleged that the franchise management had grown frustrated with Rohit’s batting output over the years, claiming he had frequently produced seasons of 200-300 runs with a strike rate of around 120.

🚨🚨HARDIK PANDYA REPORTEDLY WARNS ROHIT SHARMA AHEAD OF IPL 2026

Hardik Pandya has informed the management that there will be no tolerance this time if Rohit fails to deliver.

The MI management is very frustrated with Rohit’s performances over the last 10–12 years, as he has…

— Oxygen (@Oxygen18_) March 13, 2026

Given the history between the two players, the rumour quickly gained traction. The leadership change ahead of IPL 2024 – when Pandya replaced Rohit as captain – had already sparked intense discussions among fans. Rohit led the franchise for over a decade and guided them to five IPL titles, making the transition a sensitive topic.

As a result, many supporters began speculating that tensions might still exist between the former captain and the current skipper.

Mumbai Indians’ response to the viral going tweet

Mumbai Indians, however, moved quickly to shut down the speculation. The franchise’s official social media account responded directly to the viral claim with a brief but clear message.

“Kuch bhi. “

Accompanied by a laughing emoji and a GIF of Hardik Pandya, the two-word reply was widely interpreted as the team’s way of dismissing the rumor as completely fabricated.

Kuch bhi! 😂 https://t.co/lEiFBgaEoh pic.twitter.com/SYw1im5Mfi

— Mumbai Indians (@mipaltan) March 13, 2026

Shortly afterward, a franchise official also clarified the situation to the media, emphasizing that there was no conflict between the players.

“There is no truth to the reports of a fallout. Rohit Sharma is a pillar of this franchise, and Hardik has the full support of the senior group.”

The rumour gained momentum partly because fans noticed that Rohit and Pandya were training separately during pre-season practice sessions. However, team management explained that such arrangements are common and usually linked to workload management and recovery schedules.

With many players coming off a busy international calendar – including India’s successful campaign at the ICC Men’s T20 World Cup 2026 – training programs are often customized for individual fitness requirements.

The leadership change in 2024 had initially caused mixed reactions among fans. Yet both Rohit and Pandya remain key figures in Indian cricket, and earlier statements from officials indicated that efforts were made to ensure harmony within the squad.

Also READ: T20 World Cup 2026 glory – Indian players who are also IPL champions

Despite the rumours, Rohit’s legacy with MI remains unquestioned. The 38-year-old opener is one of the most successful players in IPL history. Across his career, he has scored 7,046 runs in 272 matches at an average of 29.73, including two centuries and 47 half-centuries.

For the Mumbai Paltan, Rohit remains the franchise’s leading run-scorer with 5,876 runs, underlining his long-standing importance to the team.

Even in IPL 2025, after a slow start to the season, Rohit finished strongly with 418 runs in 15 matches, maintaining a strike rate close to 150 and registering four half-centuries.

With the rumours now firmly dismissed, MI are turning their attention fully toward the upcoming season. The Hardik Pandya-led side will begin their IPL 2026 campaign against Kolkata Knight Riders (KKR) at the iconic Wankhede Stadium in Mumbai on March 29.

Having last lifted the IPL trophy in 2020, the franchise will be aiming to end its five-year title drought and capture a record-extending sixth championship.

Also WATCH: MS Dhoni repairs his bat using an electric sander during IPL 2026 practice session

Pakistan’s early exit from the ICC Men’s T20 World Cup 2026 has triggered another controversy within the country’s cricket setup. Senior players, including Babar Azam and Fakhar Zaman, have come under scrutiny after Pakistan selector Aaqib Javed questioned whether the players carried injuries during the tournament without proper disclosure.

Pakistan’s campaign ended in disappointment after they failed to progress beyond the Super 8 stage, continuing a worrying trend of underwhelming performances in recent ICC tournaments. With criticism mounting over team selection and player performances, fresh questions have now been raised about fitness management within the squad.

Aaqib Javed demands clarity over players’ fitness

Speaking at a press conference, Javed expressed concern over the fitness status of several players during the T20 World Cup. The former Pakistan fast bowler revealed that after returning from the tournament, it was discovered that Babar had been dealing with an injury that now prevents him from participating in domestic competitions.

Javed said the selectors were unaware of the injury issues during the World Cup and have now requested the Pakistan Cricket Board (PCB) to investigate the matter. According to him, it is worrying that players like Babar and Fakhar were reportedly unfit while still being part of the national squad during such a crucial tournament.

He emphasized that the team management, including the head coach and medical staff, are responsible for monitoring player fitness during international events. Javed questioned why the selectors were not informed earlier if key players were struggling physically during the competition.

“Babar Azam is not fit to play. Fakhar Zaman is not fit to play. Salman Mirza is not fit to play. We are requesting the PCB to conduct an inquiry. How is it possible that both Fakhar and Babar were unfit? After the World Cup, we have learned about their injuries. So, does that mean that during the T20 World Cup their fitness was not being monitored? Were they not fully fit despite being part of the squad? We selectors should be aware of this, but when the players go for the World Cup, their health issues and injury concerns should be looked after by the head coach and the physio. We should have been informed,” said Javed in a presser.

Also READ: BAN vs PAK: Mohammad Kaif shares his verdict on Salman Agha’s controversial run-out

Javed explains reason behind the absence of Babar from Bangladesh series

After Pakistan returned from the tournament, medical staff examined Babar and confirmed that his injury would prevent him from participating in upcoming domestic competitions, including the ongoing National T20 Championship and Pakistan’s series against Bangladesh.

According to Javed, the star batter was eager to play but has been advised against doing so due to the injury. This revelation has further intensified debate around Pakistan’s preparation and player management during the World Cup. The situation has raised concerns about whether injured players were risked during the global event, potentially affecting their performance and Pakistan’s overall campaign.

“When he came back from Sri Lanka, our doctors examined him (Babar Azam). His injury is preventing him from playing this series (vs Bangladesh) and the National T20. He wanted to play, but the injury is not allowing him to do so,” added Javed.

Also READ: ICC punish Salman Agha for his furious reaction after the controversial run-out in BAN vs PAK 2nd ODI

India’s triumphant campaign at the ICC Men’s T20 World Cup 2026 was not just a celebration of international success – it also reflected the immense depth of talent nurtured through the Indian Premier League (IPL). Several players who played a key role in India’s historic title run have also enjoyed remarkable success in the IPL, lifting the trophy with their respective franchises over the years.

The overlap between T20 World Cup champions and IPL winners highlights how the league has become a breeding ground for match-winners capable of thriving under pressure. For many Indian players, success in the IPL has helped build the experience, confidence, and temperament required to perform on the global stage.

IPL champions in India’s T20 World Cup 2026 squad

A number of players in India’s T20 World Cup-winning squad had already tasted IPL glory before conquering the international stage. Among them are some of the biggest names in modern Indian cricket.

All-rounder Hardik Pandya stands out as one of the most decorated IPL champions in the squad. Pandya has won the IPL title five times – four with Mumbai Indians (2015, 2017, 2019, 2020) and once as captain of Gujarat Titans in their debut season in 2022. His ability to deliver with both bat and ball in high-pressure matches has made him one of the league’s most valuable players.

Another key figure in India’s pace attack, Jasprit Bumrah, has also lifted the IPL trophy five times with Mumbai Indians. Since his debut in 2013, Bumrah has been the spearhead of Mumbai’s bowling attack, playing a crucial role in their dominant run of titles.

Indias’ T20 captain Suryakumar Yadav has also experienced multiple IPL triumphs. He first won the trophy with Kolkata Knight Riders in 2014 before adding more titles with Mumbai Indians during their golden period in 2019 and 2020. Known for his innovative strokeplay, Suryakumar has been a consistent performer in both franchise and international cricket.

Wicketkeeper-batter Ishan Kishan has also enjoyed IPL success with Mumbai Indians, winning back-to-back titles in 2019 and 2020. His aggressive batting style at the top of the order has often provided explosive starts for his teams.

Meanwhile, mystery spinner Varun Chakaravarthy and power-hitter Rinku Singh were both part of Kolkata Knight Riders’ memorable IPL title-winning campaign in 2024. Rinku’s finishing ability and Varun’s wicket-taking knack in the middle overs made them crucial players in that championship run.

All-rounder Shivam Dube also features on the list after winning the IPL with Chennai Super Kings in 2023. His powerful hitting in the middle order proved vital for CSK during their title-winning campaign.

Also READ: From Rahul Dravid to Shubman Gill: BCCI unveils list of winners for Naman Awards

India’s T20 World Cup 2026 squad members associated with winning IPL teams

Apart from the players who actively contributed to title victories, a couple of members from India’s T20 World Cup 2026 squad were also part of IPL-winning franchises earlier in their careers.

Wicketkeeper-batter Sanju Samson was part of the Kolkata Knight Riders squad that won the IPL in 2012. However, he did not get an opportunity to feature in any matches during that season. Despite that, Samson has gone on to establish himself as one of the most talented batters in Indian cricket.

Similarly, all-rounder Axar Patel was included in the Mumbai Indians squad that won the IPL in 2013, although he did not play a game that year. Over the years, Axar has developed into a dependable all-rounder for India, contributing with both bat and ball across formats.

The presence of so many IPL champions in India’s T20 World Cup-winning squad underlines the massive influence the league has had on shaping modern Indian cricket. Playing in the IPL exposes cricketers to intense competition, international stars, and high-pressure scenarios – factors that often prepare them for the demands of global tournaments.

India’s triumph at the 2026 T20 World Cup showcased exactly that. Players who had already experienced the thrill of winning the IPL brought invaluable confidence and composure to the international stage.

At the same time, the squad also featured emerging talents who are gradually building their legacy in both domestic and international cricket. This blend of experienced IPL champions and rising stars proved to be the perfect combination for India’s success.

Also READ: Former RCB coach takes blind rank challenge, puts Virat Kohli at No. 5 among 6 IPL captains

The dramatic second ODI between Bangladesh and Pakistan in Dhaka has continued to generate headlines even after the final ball was bowled. Pakistan all-rounder and stand-in captain Salman Ali Agha has now been officially reprimanded by the International Cricket Council (ICC) for his furious reaction following a controversial run-out during the match at the Sher-e-Bangla National Cricket Stadium.

The governing body also handed Agha one demerit point after determining that his actions breached the ICC Code of Conduct. The punishment came after the Pakistan captain threw his gloves and helmet to the ground in frustration while walking back to the pavilion, moments after his dismissal.

ICC issues reprimand and demerit point

The disciplinary action was confirmed by match referee Neeyamur Rashid, who found Agha guilty of a Level 1 offence under Article 2.2 of the ICC Code of Conduct. The specific article deals with the abuse of cricket equipment, clothing, or ground facilities during an international match.

The charge was formally laid by the officiating team that included on-field umpires Adrian Holdstock and Tanvir Ahmed, third umpire Kumar Dharmasena and fourth umpire Masudur Rahman Mukul.

Agha accepted the charge and the punishment proposed by the match referee, which meant that a formal disciplinary hearing was not required. The incident will also go on his record as his first disciplinary offence in the last 24 months.

“The specific incident involved abusing cricket equipment on the ground while leaving the field. Regarding Salman Agha, he has no previous history of such behaviour. We have to maintain neutrality when we judge. Consequently, we have issued a reprimand and a demerit point,” Rashid told The Daily Star.

Rashid also clarified that no further action would be taken regarding Agha’s heated verbal exchange with Bangladesh wicketkeeper Litton Das. According to the match referee, the situation was ultimately considered a “miscommunication” between the players rather than misconduct deserving additional penalties.

The run-out that triggered the outburst

The controversy unfolded in the 39th over of Pakistan’s innings, when Agha was well set on 64 runs from 62 balls and involved in a crucial 109-run partnership with Mohammad Rizwan. The pair had helped Pakistan recover from an early collapse and looked poised to guide their team to a strong total.

Bangladesh captain Mehidy Hasan Miraz delivered a ball that Rizwan gently pushed back toward the bowler. As Miraz followed through, he moved across the pitch and stopped the ball with his boot near the non-striker’s end.

At that moment, Agha appeared to believe the ball was effectively dead. In what looked like a gesture of sportsmanship, he bent down and attempted to pick up the ball to hand it back to Miraz.

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However, the Bangladesh skipper reacted instantly. Seeing Agha outside his crease, Miraz quickly grabbed the ball and underarmed it at the stumps at the non-striker’s end. He then appealed for a run-out.

After reviewing the footage, the third umpire confirmed that the ball had remained in play and that Agha had not grounded his bat inside the crease in time. The decision resulted in his dismissal.

The ruling sparked immediate frustration from the Pakistan batter. Television replays showed Agha throwing his gloves and helmet onto the ground in anger while exchanging words with both Miraz and wicketkeeper Litton Das.

Even after crossing the boundary rope, Agha continued to show his displeasure, repeating the gesture as he walked toward the dressing room.

The unusual dismissal quickly became one of the most talked-about moments of the match, reigniting discussions about the balance between the laws of the game and the ‘Spirit of Cricket.

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