The ‘Greatest Of All Time’ debate in the IPL took a historic turn in 2025 when Royal Challengers Bengaluru (RCB) finally ended their 18-year wait for glory. After defeating Punjab Kings by six runs in a nail-biting final at the Narendra Modi Stadium, the franchise transitioned from underachievers to defending champions. However, as the 2026 season approaches, the burning question remains: can they do what only Chennai Super Kings and Mumbai Indians have achieved by winning back-to-back titles?

Legendary leg-spinner and former RCB captain Anil Kumble recently shared his candid thoughts on JioHotstar, offering a blend of caution and praise for the Rajat Patidar-led side.

Anil Kumble weighs in with a reality check for RCB

History is a harsh teacher in the IPL. Since the tournament’s inception in 2008, the pressure of a title defense has crushed many giants. Kumble was quick to point out that the road to a double is paved with immense psychological and tactical hurdles.

“It’s not going to be easy for Rajat Patidar’s RCB to win back-to-back titles,” Kumble remarked. He highlighted that the league’s high-stakes environment often sees defending champions become the hunted, with every team analyzing their 2025 blueprints to find cracks. Kumble emphasized that maintaining the same intensity after achieving a long-awaited goal is a feat only the most elite squads have managed.

Despite the warning, Kumble expressed confidence in the squad’s core. RCB’s 2025 triumph wasn’t just a fluke; it was built on a balanced XI featuring the likes of Virat Kohli, who remains the heartbeat of the team, and a disciplined bowling unit led by Krunal Pandya and Josh Hazlewood. The addition of Venkatesh Iyer in the mini-auction further bolsters their depth, though Kumble suggests the team might stick to their winning combination for the season opener.

Also READ: Sanjay Bangar picks his Royal Challengers Bengaluru (RCB) playing XI for IPL 2026

Rajat Patidar’s leadership under the microscope

When Patidar was named captain for the 2025 season, the cricketing world was skeptical. Replacing a veteran like Faf du Plessis while standing in the massive shadow of Kohli was no small task. Yet, Patidar’s ‘USP’ his unflappable composure became the catalyst for RCB’s success.

Kumble admitted he was among those surprised by the appointment, initially expecting Kohli to return to the helm. However, he credited the RCB management for their foresight.

“He was identified as the skipper, and with the experience he had with Madhya Pradesh, he led really well. Now it will be challenging because expectations will be high. But he looks very composed and calm under pressure. That is his USP,” Kumble noted.

As RCB prepares to kick off their title defense on March 28 against Sunrisers Hyderabad at the M. Chinnaswamy Stadium, the focus won’t just be on the big hits, but on Patidar’s ability to manage the champion’s weight. With the home crowd’s roaring support and a stable leadership group including Andy Flower and Kohli, the defending champions are well-equipped, even if the path to a consecutive trophy remains the toughest climb in franchise cricket.

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

The mist-covered hills of Mussoorie have found a new reason to glow this week as Indian spin sensation Kuldeep Yadav prepares to embark on his most important second innings yet. Following India’s historic triumph at the T20 World Cup 2026, the ace cricketer is trading the cricket pitch for the mandap, celebrating his union with childhood sweetheart Vanshika Chaddha.

As the calendar turns to March 13, 2026, the quiet serenity of the Queen of Hills has been replaced by the rhythmic beats of dhol and the fragrance of fresh henna. Social media is currently awash with heartwarming snippets of the couple’s mehendi ceremony, offering a rare, intimate look at the man behind the legendary wrong-un.

Kuldeep Yadav and Vanshika Chaddha enjoy joyful mehendi ceremony with family in Mussoorie

The pre-wedding festivities kicked off at a luxury private resort in Mussoorie, where the crisp mountain air provided a refreshing backdrop to the colourful ceremony. In the viral visuals, Kuldeep appeared every bit the dapper groom-to-be, while Vanshika radiated a natural glow, her hands intricately adorned with traditional mehendi designs. The couple, who have known each other since their childhood days in Kanpur, shared candid moments that captured a decade-long bond blossoming into a lifelong commitment.

Vanshika, an administrative officer with the Life Insurance Corporation of India (LIC), has long been Kuldeep’s anchor away from the spotlight. Their love story is refreshingly grounded; while Kuldeep hails from Lal Bungalow in Kanpur, Vanshika grew up just three kilometers away in Shyam Nagar. The mehendi ceremony perfectly reflected this simplicity, blending deep-rooted traditions with the breathtaking modern aesthetics of a Himalayan retreat. Family members were seen joining in folk songs and laughter, creating a soulful atmosphere that underscored the couple’s preference for an intimate, meaningful celebration over a media spectacle.

Here’s the video:

The happiness of Kuldeep Yadav and Vanshika Chadha during his mehendi ceremony in Mussoorie.

Kuldeep Yadav marrying his childhood friend.❤ pic.twitter.com/Zp8G3veP64

— Sonu (@Cricket_live247) March 13, 2026

Also READ: Kuldeep Yadav’s royal wedding invite goes viral; Here’s what we know

Rinku Singh and Bhuvneshwar Kumar join in with their families at Kuldeep’s wedding event

No Indian wedding is complete without a touch of family from the field, and Kuldeep’s special day saw his closest teammates in attendance. Explosive batter Rinku Singh, a fellow Uttar Pradesh native and one of Kuldeep’s closest friends, was spotted adding his signature energy to the event. Accompanied by his family, Rinku was seen engaging in playful banter with the groom, proving that the camaraderie of the locker room translates perfectly to the wedding floor.

Also gracing the event was veteran pacer Bhuvneshwar Kumar. Arriving with his family, ‘Bhuvi’ brought a sense of seasoned warmth to the festivities. The presence of these cricketing stalwarts turned the private ceremony into a mini-reunion of the Indian squad, as they celebrated their teammate’s milestone just weeks after their global T20 success.

With the main wedding scheduled for March 14 and a grand reception to follow in Lucknow on March 17, the excitement among fans is at an all-time high. As Kuldeep prepares to exchange vows, it’s clear he has found a partner who values the man behind the jersey, making this victory in Mussoorie his most cherished one yet.

Rinku Singh and Bhuvneshwar Kumar with their families at Kuldeep Yadav’s wedding event — UP cricketers together. pic.twitter.com/bjDRK6ur57

— Sonu (@Cricket_live247) March 13, 2026

Also READ: Date and venue details of Kuldeep Yadav’s marriage with childhood friend Vanshika Chadha

As the excitement builds for the upcoming edition of the Indian Premier League (IPL) 2026, former India cricketer Sanjay Bangar has shared his assessment of the Lucknow Super Giants (LSG) squad. Bangar believes the franchise may struggle with finishing options in the batting lineup but suggested that spin-bowling all-rounder could emerge as a crucial player in that role during the season.

The Lucknow-based franchise endured a disappointing campaign in IPL 2025, finishing seventh in the standings and missing out on the playoffs. Heading into the new season, the team appears to rely heavily on its strong top-order, which includes Mitchell Marsh, Aiden Markram, Nicholas Pooran, and captain Rishabh Pant.

Sanjay Bangar names the finisher for LSG

Speaking on Star Sports, Bangar pointed out that the team’s middle and lower order lacks proven finishers who can consistently close out innings in high-pressure situations. According to him, the responsibility could fall on a small group of players to deliver in the latter stages of the innings.

Bangar noted that apart from Shahbaz Ahmed, Abdul Samad, and Ayush Badoni, the squad does not possess many options who naturally fit into the finisher’s role. As a result, he emphasized that the team’s top-order batters will have to shoulder more responsibility to ensure strong totals.

The former India all-rounder suggested that Shahbaz could be used strategically towards the end of the innings to add quick runs. Drawing from his experience working with Shahbaz during his time with the Royal Challengers Bengaluru, Bangar praised the player’s temperament and fighting spirit.

Bangar described Shahbaz as a cricketer with strong character and resilience, qualities that can prove valuable in pressure situations. He added that the all-rounder’s ability to stay composed could help LSG in tight finishes.

“Apart from Shahbaz Ahmed, Abdul Samad and Ayush Badoni, they don’t have any other player who can fit in there. So the top five will have to do more, and you can expect Shahbaz to come and provide the finishing touches,” said Bangar on Star Sports.

“He is a player with great character. He was with me in RCB. So I know the kind of fighting qualities he has. So you will definitely want the top order to perform the way they have been performing in international cricket at the moment, or the way Nicholas Pooran garnered fame last year. If the top order doesn’t fire, this team will have difficulties throughout the season,” added Bangar.

Also READ: Sanjay Bangar picks his Royal Challengers Bengaluru (RCB) playing XI for IPL 2026

Numbers from IPL 2025 show mixed results

A look at last season’s statistics reflects the concerns raised by Bangar. Shahbaz featured in just three matches for Lucknow Super Giants in IPL 2025 and managed only nine runs in his lone batting opportunity. In contrast, Badoni showed promise with the bat, scoring 329 runs in 11 innings at an impressive strike rate of 148.19. Samad also contributed useful cameos, scoring 164 runs in 12 innings at a striking rate of 176.34. Despite these contributions, Lucknow struggled to consistently close out innings, a factor that played a role in their mid-table finish.

Also READ: Sanjay Bangar names his playing XI of Punjab Kings for IPL 2026

The cricketing world witnessed a moment of pure athletic brilliance at the Shere Bangla National Stadium in Dhaka during the high-stakes 2nd ODI between Bangladesh and Pakistan on Friday, 2026. As the two Asian giants clashed in a pivotal encounter of the series, the spotlight shifted from the bat to the field, courtesy of a jaw-dropping effort from Bangladesh’s rising star, Tawhid Hridoy.

Tawhid Hridoy produces a sensational catch to dismiss Sahibzada Farhan in Second ODI

The momentum of the match took a dramatic turn in the 18th over of the Pakistani innings. Sahibzada Farhan, who had looked composed during his 46-ball stay at the crease, was beginning to shift gears alongside the middle order. However, the experienced Taskin Ahmed had other plans.

On the fourth delivery of the 17.4 over, Taskin bowled a full-length ball that angled sharply into the off-stump. Looking to break the shackles with a big hit, Farhan attempted a wild slog over the leg side. The execution, however, was far from perfect. The ball caught the outer half of the bat, slicing high into the overcast Dhaka sky toward the deep third region.

While the ball seemed to be hanging in the air forever, Hridoy tracked it with the precision of a hawk. Running a considerable distance and maintaining his gaze despite the swirling winds, Hridoy reached the ball just in time. He plucked the leather out of the air and, showing immense awareness of the boundary ropes, tumbled over safely to complete a catch that left the Mirpur crowd in a frenzy. Farhan departed for 31 (including two boundaries), leaving Pakistan at 121/2 and giving the Tigers a much-needed breakthrough.

Here’s the video:

Wicket! Sahibzada Farhan caught by Tawhid Hridoy off the bowling of Taskin Ahmed. 🏏🔥🇧🇩

#BCB #Cricket #Bangladesh #Pakistan #ODI pic.twitter.com/ejTGItXh4M

— Bangladesh Cricket (@BCBtigers) March 13, 2026

Also READ: Explained: Why the Bangladesh vs Pakistan ODI series matters for World Cup 2027 qualification?

Pakistan falters in the end of the 1st innings against Bangladesh

Despite Hridoy’s brilliance in the field and the disciplined bowling of Mehidy Hasan Miraz—who delivered a masterful spell of 10 overs, returning figures of 2/34—Pakistan displayed remarkable resilience. The foundation of their innings was laid by an explosive opening stand, highlighted by Maaz Sadaqat’s blistering 75 off 46 balls, which included six towering sixes.

As the innings progressed into the final ten overs, the Pakistani middle order capitalized on the platform. Salman Agha played a crucial anchor role, scoring a well-paced 64 off 62 deliveries, laced with seven boundaries and two maximums. He was ably supported by the veteran Mohammad Rizwan, whose steady 44 kept the scoreboard ticking during the middle overs.

By the 43rd over, Pakistan had reached 259/7, scoring at a healthy run rate of 6.02. Although Bangladesh managed to spark a late collapse by dismissing Hussain Talat and Abdul Samad, the visitors still looked well on course to breach the 300-run mark. However, Bangladesh applied sustained pressure in the closing stages, preventing Pakistan from accelerating. Power-hitters Faheem Ashraf and Shaheen Shah Afridi also failed to make an impact, and the final overs of Powerplay 3 turned into a nightmare for the visitors, who were eventually bowled out for 274 in 47.3 overs.

Also READ: Nahid Rana, Tanzid Hasan Tamim shine as Bangladesh crush Pakistan in the first ODI

The signing of Pakistan spinner Abrar Ahmed by Sunrisers Leeds during the 2026 auction of The Hundred has sparked a wave of debate and criticism, particularly among Indian cricket fans. The franchise, owned by Chennai-based Sun Group – which also runs the Sunrisers Hyderabad IPL team—came under scrutiny after securing the mystery spinner for £190,000 (around ₹2.34 crore).

Much of the backlash was directed at franchise co-owner Kavya Maran, who was present at the auction and raised the paddle during the bidding process. The reaction on social media was intense, with several fans questioning the decision and even calling for boycotts. Adding to the drama, the official X (formerly Twitter) account of Sunrisers Leeds was reportedly suspended shortly after the announcement.

Amid the controversy, Sunrisers Leeds head coach Daniel Vettori has now explained the reasoning behind the move, stressing that the decision was purely based on cricketing needs rather than any off-field considerations.

Why Kavya Maran’s Sunrisers Leeds targeted Abrar Ahmed?

According to Vettori, the decision to pursue Abrar Ahmed was made only after the franchise failed to secure their primary spin target during the auction in London.

“Once we missed out on Adil Rashid, who was a priority early on, then we obviously jumped into the overseas spinner market. There were four or five guys we were looking at, and Abrar was one of them. Very pleased to get him,” Vettori stated after the conclusion of the auction.

The coaching staff had identified several overseas spin options, including Bangladesh spinner Rishad Hossain and fellow Pakistani mystery spinner Usman Tariq, before ultimately deciding to bid aggressively for Abrar.

Before the auction, there had been speculation that the four franchises with Indian ownership might avoid picking Pakistani players due to political tensions between India and Pakistan. Pakistani cricketers have not played in the Indian Premier League (IPL) since 2008, and IPL-linked teams have generally avoided signing them in other global leagues as well.

However, Vettori made it clear that such considerations never influenced the team’s strategy.

“We just planned for everyone who was in the auction. There wasn’t a discussion about not picking Pakistan players. It was simply a matter of who was the best option available,” Vettori explained.

He further confirmed that the franchise ownership never instructed the coaching staff to avoid Pakistani players.

“We came into the auction with every player available to us. As soon as this option was available there were a number of very good spinners from international teams that were an option, but Abrar was a priority,” he told BBC Sport.

Before the auction, the England and Wales Cricket Board had also reminded franchises of their anti-discrimination responsibilities amid reports of a possible informal “shadow ban.” The ECB and all eight teams later released a joint statement saying selections would be based on “performance, availability, and the needs of each team.”

Also READ: ‘Shame on Kavya Maran’ – Sunrisers owner faces backlash for signing Pakistan spinner Abrar Ahmed in The Hundred Auction

Tactical reasons behind the signing of Abrar Ahmed

Vettori also highlighted that Abrar Ahmed’s bowling style made him an attractive option for Sunrisers Leeds, particularly considering the conditions at Headingley Cricket Ground.

“It’s a bit of a mystery. I don’t think many English players have seen him much. He recently played against Australia, and the feedback from the Australian players was that he’s tricky to face, with a lot of variations and the ability to strike in the powerplay and through the middle overs,” Vettori said.

The former New Zealand captain believes that spinners often play a decisive role at Headingley, making Abrar’s skill set especially valuable for the team.

“Spinners have been the ones who succeed there. Having someone like Abrar could make a big difference for us,” he added. “A lot of variations and an ability to strike in the powerplay, and still through the middle stages, which I think is a key requirement at Headingley.”

Abrar entered the auction with a base price of £75,000, but a bidding contest between Sunrisers Leeds and Trent Rockets eventually pushed his price up to £190,000, making him the most expensive Asian player in the 2026 Hundred auction.

He was also the second Pakistani player sold during the auction, after Usman Tariq was picked up by Birmingham Phoenix for £140,000. Several other Pakistan stars—including Haris Rauf, Shadab Khan and Saim Ayub – went unsold, while fast bowler Shaheen Shah Afridi withdrew before the auction began.

Despite the criticism online, the Sunrisers Leeds management remains confident in their decision. Vettori reiterated that the team is focused on building a strong squad capable of challenging for the title.

Sunrisers Leeds, captained by Harry Brook, also added players such as Ryan Rickelton, Zak Crawley, Matt Potts, and Dan Lawrence during the auction. The squad already features notable names like Brydon Carse, Mitchell Marsh and Nathan Ellis.

The 2026 season of The Hundred will run from July 21 to August 16, featuring 34 men’s and 34 women’s matches.

Also READ: The Hundred 2026 Auction – Complete list of sold players with their price

The stage is set for a high-octane rematch of the last edition’s final as Southern Super Stars take on Konark Suryas Odisha. With both teams boasting a roster of legendary cricketers, this third match of the Legends League Cricket (LLC) 2026 promises to be a masterclass in strategy and skill.

This encounter is more than just a regular-season game; it is a battle for redemption for Konark Suryas Odisha. After losing the previous final, Ravichandran Ashwin and his men will be eager to settle the score. Ashwin, making his LLC debut this season, brings a tactical edge that could neutralize the explosive top order of the Super Stars.

The Southern Super Stars, led by the Harbhajan Singh, remain the team to beat. Their squad is built on aggressive batting, spearheaded by Martin Guptill, and a spin department that thrives on pressure. While their batting depth is their greatest asset, the Suryas’ balanced bowling attack, featuring Piyush Chawla and Vinay Kumar, will look to exploit any early-season rustiness.

Konark Suryas Odisha vs Southern Super Star: Match Details

• Date and Time: March 13; 2:00 pm GMT/ 7:30 pm IST
• Venue: Sri Ramakrishna College of Arts and Science Ground, Coimbatore

Konark Suryas Odisha vs Southern Super Stars Head to Head Record

Matches Played: 3 | KSO won: 0 | SSS Won: 3 | No results: 0

Sri Ramakrishna College of Arts and Science Ground Pitch Report

The surface at Coimbatore is traditionally known to be a balanced T20 wicket with something in it for everyone. The track offers good bounce and carry initially, allowing stroke-makers like Ross Taylor and Ben Dunk to play through the line. Pacers can expect some early swing under the lights. However, as the game progresses, the pitch tends to slow down, making it a spinner’s paradise. Dew is expected to play a significant role in the second innings. This makes the ball harder to grip for spinners, often giving the chasing side a distinct advantage.

Squads

Konark Suryas Odisha: Ross Taylor, Gurkeerat Singh Mann, Jermaine Blackwood, Ben Dunk (wk), Chandrapaul Hemraj, Malinda Pushpakumara, Ravichandran Ashwin (c), Rayad Emrit, Piyush Chawla, Vinay Kumar, Miguel Cummins, Junaid Siddiqui, Rituraj Singh, Ankit Rajpoot, Akshay Wakhare, Vikas Tokas, Jesal Karia, Monu Kumar, Kennar Lewis, Lasith Lakshan

Southern Super Stars: Martin Guptill, Chirag Gandhi, Saurabh Tiwary, Dinesh Karthik (wk), Dilshan Munaweera, Adeesha Thilanchana, Harbhajan Singh (c), Hamid Hassan, Siddharth Trivedi, Sudeep Tyagi, Sarabjit Ladda, Waqarullah Ishaq

Also READ: Legends League Cricket (LLC) 2026 Squads: Players list and Captains of all six teams

Konark Suryas Odisha vs Southern Super Stars: Today’s match prediction

Case 1:

• Konark Suryas Odisha wins the toss and bowl first
• Southern Super Stars’ powerplay score: 40-50
• Southern Super Stars’ total score: 160-170

Case 2:

• Southern Super Stars wins the toss and bowl first
• Konark Suryas Odisha’ powerplay score: 45-55
• Konark Suryas Odisha’ total score: 165-175

Match result: Team bowling first will win the game

Also READ: Legend League Cricket 2026 Schedule, Broadcast and Live Streaming details: When and where to watch in India, Australia & USA

The 2026 edition of The Hundred was always destined to be a transformative chapter for English cricket, but few predicted the geopolitical firestorm ignited during this week’s Men’s Auction. In a move that sent shockwaves from Headingley to Hyderabad, Sunrisers Leeds, the franchise recently acquired in full by India’s Sun Group secured the services of Pakistan’s mystery spinner Abrar Ahmed for a staggering £190,000.

However, the celebratory atmosphere was short-lived. Within hours of the high-stakes bid, the franchise’s official X (formerly Twitter) handle was abruptly suspended. Visitors to the page are currently met with a cold, automated message: “Account suspended. X suspends accounts which violate the X rules.” While X has not released an official statement, the timing suggests a coordinated campaign of mass reporting following a surge of vitriolic backlash from a segment of the team’s international fanbase.

The signing of Abrar is more than just a tactical masterstroke by head coach Daniel Vettori; it is a direct challenge to a decades-long status quo. Since the 2008 inaugural IPL season, Pakistan players have been conspicuously absent from Indian-owned franchises across global leagues, from the SA20 to the ILT20, due to the deeply strained diplomatic relations between India and Pakistan.

Abrar’s entry into the Sunrisers Leeds roster marks a historic shift. He follows spinner Usman Tariq (Trent Rockets) as the second Pakistani player sold in the 2026 auction, but more significantly, he is the first to be signed by a team under 100% Indian ownership. Addressing the strategic logic behind the pick, Vettori noted that the team pivot was necessary after missing out on local favourite Adil Rashid. “Abrar was one of four or five guys we were looking at, very pleased to get him,” Vettori stated via ESPNcricinfo.

Also READ: ‘Shame on Kavya Maran’: Sunrisers owner faces backlash for signing Pakistan spinner Abrar Ahmed in The Hundred Auction

ECB’s stance amidst growing diplomatic friction

The controversy is further complicated by conflicting narratives surrounding the eligibility of Pakistani talent in the newly privatized Hundred. Prior to the auction, reports surfaced via the BBC suggesting that a senior ECB official had hinted that Indian-owned franchises would skip over Pakistan players to avoid political complications.

The ECB was quick to debunk these claims, asserting that the draft process remained strictly meritocratic, based on “performance, availability, and the needs of each team.” By completing a 100% takeover of the Leeds-based franchise—buying both the ECB’s 51% investment stake and Yorkshire CCC’s 49% share, the Sun Group has effectively tested the limits of this independence.

As the Sunrisers Leeds management works to restore their digital platform, the cricketing world watches closely. The suspension of their X account serves as a stark reminder that in the modern era, the boundary ropes of the cricket field offer little protection from the complex, often volatile world of digital geopolitics.

Also READ: The Hundred 2026 Auction: Complete list of sold players with their price

Nearly a decade after one of the most dramatic finishes in T20 World Cup history, former Bangladesh captain Mahmudullah has revisited the painful memories of his team’s heartbreaking defeat to India in the 2016 tournament. Speaking during a recent appearance on the Simply Sayeed podcast, the veteran all-rounder reflected on how the narrow loss in Bengaluru still lingers in his mind.

The match, played on March 23, 2016 at the M. Chinnaswamy Stadium, ended in a stunning one-run victory for India national cricket team against the Bangladesh national cricket team. For Bangladesh players, especially Mahmudullah, the defeat became a deeply emotional experience that taught them lasting lessons about handling pressure at the highest level.

The dramatic final over that changed everything

Bangladesh seemed firmly in control during the final moments of the match. Chasing a modest target of 147, they needed just 11 runs from the final over, which was bowled by a young Hardik Pandya.

The equation quickly tilted further in Bangladesh’s favour. Wicketkeeper-batter Mushfiqur Rahim smashed back-to-back boundaries off the second and third deliveries, leaving Bangladesh needing only two runs from three balls with two well-set batters – Rahim and Mahmudullah – at the crease.

But what followed became one of the most unbelievable turnarounds in cricket history.

Pandya struck on the fourth delivery when Rahim was caught at deep mid-wicket. The pressure immediately shifted back to Bangladesh. On the next ball, Mahmudullah attempted to finish the game with a big shot but ended up hitting straight to Shikhar Dhawan near the boundary.

With two runs needed off the final ball, the tension inside the stadium was palpable. New batter Shuvagata Hom failed to connect cleanly, and in a dramatic finish, MS Dhoni produced a lightning-fast run-out of Mustafizur Rahman to seal a miraculous victory for India.

Looking back, Mahmudullah admitted that his decision-making in that crucial moment still haunts him.

“At that particular moment I was thinking that if we just hit one boundary we would win. To be honest, that was dumb,” Mahmudullah confessed.

Now 38 and retired from international cricket, he acknowledged that a calmer approach might have changed the outcome.

“I will try to put it in the gap and take a two,” he reflected while describing what he would do differently today.

Mahmudullah had also taken responsibility for the defeat immediately after the match in 2016.

“I made a senseless mistake and was responsible for the defeat. I just want to say – I apologise to everyone.”

Tears, regret and a life-changing lesson 

The heartbreak of that night extended well beyond the final ball. Mahmudullah recalled how the entire Bangladesh team struggled to process the loss after coming so close to defeating India on their home soil.

“I don’t know what happened in that game against India. That was tragic. It was very heartbreaking,” he said.

The emotional aftermath was intense, with players openly breaking down both on the field and later at the hotel.

“We cried on the ground. When we got back to the hotel, we cried. Me, Mushfiqur Rahim, we all cried. Many other members were crying as well because we were so close to beating India.”

For Bangladesh cricket, a victory that night would have been historic. Beating India in India at a World Cup would have marked a huge moment for the team. Instead, the defeat eventually led to their exit from the group stage, while India advanced to the semi-finals.

Despite the lingering pain, Mahmudullah believes the experience ultimately shaped him as both a player and a person.

“I think that was a great lesson I’ve learned in my life. I did a horrible mistake. It burns me all the time whenever I think about it. But I think I’ve learned from that mistake. Once I heard that ‘you burn you learn.’ So, I was burned on that day,” he said in a 2020 interview.

In his latest reflection, he described the defeat as a turning point in his life.

“Personally, in my life that was a very life-changing lesson for me. You drag it to the last ball and you finish it off,” he said.

The match remains one of the most iconic contests between India and Bangladesh. India had earlier posted 145 for 9, with contributions from Suresh Raina and Dhoni, but the total seemed below par on a good batting surface.

Also READ: Nahid Rana, Tanzid Hasan Tamim shine as Bangladesh crush Pakistan in the first ODI

Indian cricket team spinner Kuldeep Yadav is all set to begin a new chapter in his personal life as he prepares to marry his childhood friend Vanshika Singh. The wedding ceremony is scheduled for March 14 at the luxurious Welcomhotel The Savoy, one of the most iconic heritage hotels in the hill town. Just a few days later, the couple will host a grand reception in Lucknow on March 17 at Hotel Centrum.

Ahead of the big day, Kuldeep’s beautifully designed wedding invitation has gone viral on social media, attracting admiration for its regal theme and intricate craftsmanship.

Kuldeep Yadav’s royal wedding card captures attention online

Kuldeep and Vanshika’s wedding card has become a talking point among fans due to its elegant and artistic design. Inspired by the timeless love story of Radha and Krishna, the invitation reflects a royal and traditional aesthetic.

The base colour of the card is a soft peach-pink shade, decorated with detailed floral patterns that add a graceful touch. Gold foil work has been used throughout the design, creating intricate carvings that enhance the royal feel of the invitation. The edges are highlighted with golden accents, depicting palace domes and decorative figures that give the card a subtle 3D vintage look.

One of the most striking features is a golden buckle-like lock placed at the top of the card, adorned with delicate pink floral detailing. This element adds to the luxurious presentation and makes the invitation stand out visually.

At the centre of the card, a beautifully engraved artwork shows a couple standing near a jharokha-style palace window. The figures, dressed in traditional red and green royal attire, resemble Radha and Krishna, symbolising eternal love and devotion. The background illustration showcases palace domes and latticed windows, reinforcing the regal theme. At the bottom of the card, the design shifts to a serene natural setting with blooming lotus flowers, a fountain, and a peacock, further enhancing its artistic appeal.

Even the typography has been carefully chosen to match the theme. The names “Kuldeep and Vanshika” appear at the top in a vintage gold nameplate-style design. Additionally, a small invitation tag features a creative logo combining the letters ‘K’ and ‘V’, ending in a heart shape. According to reports, the elaborate invitation card is estimated to cost around ₹2200 per piece.

Also READ: Date and venue details of Kuldeep Yadav’s marriage with childhood friend Vanshika Chadha

Cricket stars expected at the Mussoorie ceremony

The wedding celebrations are expected to feature several high-profile guests from the cricketing world. Reports suggest that many of Kuldeep’s teammates could attend the ceremony in Mussoorie, including Virat Kohli, Rohit Sharma, and Jasprit Bumrah.

To accommodate guests, approximately 80 rooms have reportedly been reserved at Welcomhotel The Savoy, while additional luxury properties nearby have also been booked for family members, VIP guests, and security personnel.

Also READ: ‘Shame on Kavya Maran’: Sunrisers owner faces backlash for signing Pakistan spinner Abrar Ahmed in The Hundred Auction

As the excitement for the 19th edition of the Indian Premier League (IPL) reaches a fever pitch, Punjab Kings (PBKS) have officially raised the curtain on their highly anticipated match jersey for the 2026 season. In a video shared over social media starring captain Shreyas Iyer and company, the franchise showcased a design that artfully blends their storied heritage with a modern, performance-driven aesthetic. The new kit, produced in collaboration with sportswear giant SIX5SIX, serves as a visual manifesto for a team that topped the league standings in 2025 and is now hungry to go one step further.

The symbolism of the ‘Sher Squad’: From raw talent to polished diamonds

The most talked-about feature of the 2026 threads is the intricate gradient pattern that dominates the front panel. Moving away from the solid blocks of colour seen in previous years, the new design features a central lion motif, the heart of the PBKS identity which subtly deconstructs into sharp, geometric diamond shapes toward the edges of the fabric.

According to the franchise, this ‘Lion to Diamond’ narrative is deeply rooted in the team’s core philosophy. The lion represents the instinct and aggression of the raw talent the team scouts from across the country. In contrast, the diamonds symbolize what that talent becomes once it is ‘polished’ through the high-performance training systems led by head coach Ricky Ponting and the high-pressure environment of the IPL. This symbolic evolution mirrors the journey of players like Prabhsimran Singh and Arshdeep Singh, who have transitioned from promising youngsters into world-class match-winners under the Punjab banner.

Our threads for #IPL2026! 🔥#SherSquad, saddi navi jersey ghaint aa? 😎#PunjabKings pic.twitter.com/JESDKdsntG

— Punjab Kings (@PunjabKingsIPL) March 12, 2026

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Modern innovation meets the fortress of Mullanpur

While the design is rich in metaphor, it is equally grounded in technical excellence. The 2026 kit is engineered with advanced, moisture-wicking fabric specifically designed to combat the intense Indian summer. The jersey also proudly displays the logo of the team’s new title sponsor, CP Plus, marking a significant commercial milestone for the franchise following their record-breaking 2025 campaign where they finished as runners-up.

The color palette remains a vibrant mix of red and blue, representing the fearless attitude that defined their previous season. This visual refresh comes at a pivotal moment as the team prepares to turn their home ground, the Maharaja Yadavindra Singh PCA Stadium in Mullanpur, into an impenetrable fortress.

Fans won’t have to wait long to see the ‘Sher Squad’ in their new colors. Shreyas Iyer and his men are scheduled to debut the kit on March 31, 2026, in a high-stakes season opener against Shubman Gill’s Gujarat Titans. Having narrowly missed out on the trophy last year in a final against Royal Challengers Bengaluru, the new jersey represents a fresh start and a clear signal of intent: the Punjab Kings are no longer just competitors; they are a polished force ready to claim their first-ever IPL title.

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