Veteran Indian fast bowler Mohammad Shami has firmly dismissed growing retirement rumours, stating he remains motivated and far from calling time on his career. Speaking ahead of his new franchise’s first match in the Indian Premier League (IPL) 2026, Shami emphasized that thoughts of retirement have not crossed his mind.

Interacting with Shubhankar Mishra on his Youtube channel, Shami said that retirement is something he associates with boredom or fatigue – neither of which he currently feels. According to him, as long as he enjoys the game and delivers results, stepping away is not an option. His remarks come amid increasing speculation due to his absence from the national team since March 2025.

Shami last represented India during the final of the ICC Champions Trophy 2025. Since then, despite consistent domestic performances, he has remained out of the selectors’ plans, sparking debates among fans and experts.

“When I get tired, I will call it a day. But I am not even thinking of retirement right now because such thoughts pull you down. If this thought crosses your mind, it means you’re already tired. And if you’re tired, it means you’re bored. And I have said this earlier, too. I’ll leave cricket the day I wake up and decide to get bored. So yeah, the day I feel lazy or get bored, I’ll leave. But neither am I bored nor am I lazy. I am enjoying. Results are good and positive,” Shami said on The Shubhankar Mishra Show.

BCCI selection snub raises questions about Mohammed Shami’s retirement

The continued exclusion of Shami from the Indian squad has raised eyebrows, especially considering his stellar domestic record. During the 2025-26 season, the experienced pacer picked up an impressive 67 wickets across formats, reinforcing his reputation as one of India’s most reliable seamers.

However, the Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI) selectors appear to be focusing on grooming younger fast bowlers. This shift has led to a perception that the management is gradually moving on from senior players like Shami.

Shami himself has expressed disappointment over the lack of communication from selectors. He revealed that clarity regarding his position in the team has been missing, leaving him uncertain despite maintaining strong form.

Adding to the complexity, Shami had opted out of major tours, including the Australia and England series, citing incomplete recovery from a foot injury. While these decisions were made to ensure long-term fitness, they may have inadvertently impacted his selection chances.

Shami’s fresh start with Lucknow Super Giants in IPL 2026

In IPL 2026, Shami is all set to represent Lucknow Super Giants (LSG), hoping to turn a new page in his T20 career. After an ordinary stint with Sunrisers Hyderabad (SRH) in IPL 2025 – where he managed just six wickets in nine matches – the right-arm pacer is eager to prove his worth once again.

Shami acknowledged that while luck plays a role in cricket, his primary focus remains on effort, discipline, and attitude. He stressed that he is committed to giving his best for Lucknow and meeting the expectations placed on him by the franchise.

Also READ: IPL 2026 – Ravindra Jadeja reveals why he hasn’t spoken to MS Dhoni since leaving CSK

The move to LSG offers him a renewed platform to showcase his abilities in a high-pressure environment. With IPL being a crucial stage for players eyeing a national comeback, a strong performance could potentially reignite his international career.

Despite uncertainties surrounding his international future, Shami remains grounded and focused on his game. He highlighted that personal satisfaction and maintaining rhythm are more important than dwelling on past achievements or selection setbacks.

Rather than counting the number of matches played in domestic cricket, Shami emphasized the importance of staying in rhythm and maintaining peak performance levels. According to him, once that rhythm is achieved, thoughts about the future naturally follow.

“As a bowler, I will give my 100 per cent. I’ll perform my responsibilities and try to meet the expectations set for me. Rest, I can’t change my luck. All I can contribute is with my attitude and determination. If Lucknow has trusted me, I will give my all. Still, whenever you’re playing, the main element is satisfaction. Will I get the returns based on all the preparations that I have gone through? I did not focus on how much domestic I’ve played, but on the fact that my rhythm is alright. If that’s the point, I start thinking about the future,” added Shami.

Also READ: IPL 2026 – Ravindra Jadeja gets emotional against his former franchise CSK; video goes viral

The Indian Premier League (IPL) 2026 season has kicked off with a thunderous roar, and the third match of the tournament at the Barsapara Cricket Stadium in Guwahati lived up to the hype. On Monday, the Rajasthan Royals (RR) squared off against the Chennai Super Kings (CSK) in a high-stakes encounter that showcased the shifting tides of Indian cricket. While the scoreboard reflected a dominant win for the Royals, the narrative following the match has been centered on the evolution of a modern-day batting maestro.

Aakash Chopra identifies RR star batter as the ‘next Virat Kohli’

While teenage sensation Vaibhav Suryavanshi stole the headlines with a rapid-fire half-century, former Indian opener and renowned commentator Aakash Chopra chose to highlight the unseen brilliance of Yashasvi Jaiswal. In a detailed analysis on his YouTube channel, Chopra drew profound parallels between Jaiswal and the legendary Virat Kohli, focusing specifically on the youngster’s burgeoning maturity and tactical ego-management.

Chopra noted that Jaiswal’s unbeaten 38 off 36 balls was a masterclass in situational awareness. In a format often obsessed with strike rates, Jaiswal recognized that Suryavanshi was striking the ball with transcendental ease at the other end. Instead of trying to outshine his partner, Jaiswal anchored the innings, ensuring the chase never faltered.

“We saw glimpses of Virat Kohli in him today. The ability to look at the larger picture, keep the ego aside, and not compete with the batter at the other end is what defines greatness. Jaiswal understood that the team needed to win, and he prioritized staying until the end,” Chopra remarked.

Chopra emphasized the importance of the red-inker, the asterisk denoting an unbeaten status, stating that those who consistently finish games in run chases eventually transition from stars to superstars. By mirroring Kohli’s finisher DNA, Jaiswal has signalled that he is no longer just a flamboyant opener but a calculated match-winner.

Also READ: RR vs CSK, IPL 2026: Ravindra Jadeja opens up on Shivam Dube send-off and whether he misses his former franchise

RR’s commanding victory leaves CSK reeling early in IPL 2026

The match itself was a statement of intent from the Rajasthan Royals. Chasing a modest target set by the Super Kings, the Royals looked in total control from the first ball. The victory was secured with a staggering 47 balls to spare, resulting in an eight-wicket win that significantly boosted their Net Run Rate.

The primary catalyst for this demolition was Suryavanshi, whose 52 off just 17 balls left the CSK bowling attack shell-shocked. However, the synergy between Suryavanshi’s aggression and Jaiswal’s composure provided a glimpse of RR’s balanced tactical approach for the 2026 season. CSK, usually known for their disciplined bowling, struggled to find answers as the Royals’ batters manipulated the field with ease under the Guwahati lights.

With this dream start, RR have firmly established themselves as the team to beat. As they prepare to face Gujarat Titans on April 4, the focus remains on whether Jaiswal can continue this Kohli-esque trajectory. For now, the Royals sit comfortably at the top of the table, backed by a blend of youthful exuberance and seasoned maturity.

Also READ: IPL 2026: Fans go berserk as clinical Rajasthan Royals thump Chennai Super Kings in Guwahati

The IPL 2026 clash between Rajasthan Royals (RR) and Chennai Super Kings (CSK) was always going to be an emotional affair. But what caught everyone’s attention wasn’t just Ravindra Jadeja’s match-winning spell – it was his honest and humorous revelation about why he hasn’t spoken to his former captain MS Dhoni since leaving the franchise.

“Baat nahi hui hai”: Ravindra Jadeja on his chat with MS Dhoni

After RR’s dominant eight-wicket win, the left-handed all-rounder found himself at the centre of a light-hearted yet emotional moment when asked about his equation with Dhoni.

Speaking to JioHotstar after the match, Jadeja was quizzed about whether he spoke to his former captain since leaving CSK. His response, delivered with a smile, instantly struck a chord with fans.

“Baat nahi hui hai, kyunki Mahi bhai phone band hi rakhte hain,” Jadeja said with his trademark grin. “Baat nahi hui, par jab bhi main milunga Mahi bhai se toh khoob saari baatein karunga.”

The remark drew laughter, but it also revealed something deeper – a relationship that doesn’t rely on constant communication. Even without regular conversations, the mutual respect and understanding between Jadeja and Dhoni remain intact. For fans who have watched the duo share countless memorable moments over the years, this was a reminder that some connections go beyond the game.

A special night in Guwahati

While the off-field banter grabbed attention, Jadeja’s performance at the Barsapara Cricket Stadium in Guwahati was equally impactful. Returning to Rajasthan Royals after 17 years, he delivered a spell that reminded everyone of his all-round brilliance. Jaddu picked up 2 wickets for just 18 runs in three overs, playing a key role in restricting his former side.

One of the standout moments of the match came when he dismissed Shivam Dube – a player he knows inside out from their time together at CSK. After being hit for a six, Jadeja showed his experience and composure, cleverly adjusting his line on the very next ball. The plan worked to perfection as Dube mistimed his shot and was caught in the deep.

Also READ: RR vs CSK, IPL 2026 – Ravindra Jadeja opens up on Shivam Dube send-off and whether he misses his former franchise

Beyond the numbers and tactics, however, it was an emotional evening for Jadeja. As he patrolled the boundary ropes, chants of “CSK, CSK” echoed around the stadium. The noise wasn’t just support for a team – it was a tribute to a player who had given over a decade of his career to the franchise.

Cameras caught Jadeja visibly moved by the moment, struggling to hold back his emotions. For someone who had been a pillar of CSK for 13 years, this was not just another game – it was a homecoming filled with mixed feelings.

With Dhoni currently sidelined due to a calf injury, fans are now eagerly waiting for the much-anticipated reunion of the legendary duo on the field.

Also READ: Sunil Gavaskar reacts to Ben Duckett’s IPL exit, urges BCCI to enforce stricter rules

The Indian Premier League (IPL) has always been a tournament where professional loyalties clash with deep-seated personal bonds, but few moments have captured this tension quite like the showdown between Rajasthan Royals (RR) and Chennai Super Kings (CSK). On Monday, at the Barsapara Stadium in Guwahati, the narrative shifted from a dominant cricketing display to a poignant human moment involving one of India’s greatest all-rounders, Ravindra Jadeja.

As the third match of the IPL 2026 season unfolded, the cricketing world witnessed a rare sight: a seasoned professional seemingly overcome by the plight of the team he once called home.

Ravindra Jadeja gets emotional during RR clash against CSK

The internet is currently ablaze with a viral clip that has left fans debating the emotional state of Jadeja. The incident occurred during the first innings when CSK was ‘down in the dumps,’ reeling at a precarious 60 for 6. As Jadeja stood fielding near the boundary ropes, the host broadcaster’s camera panned toward him, capturing what appeared to be a teary-eyed and visibly emotional player.

The sight of Jadeja looking distressed while his former franchise crumbled sparked immediate speculation across social media. Having spent the bulk of his career in the yellow jersey and even captaining them briefly, the connection remains undeniable. Was it the sight of his old teammates struggling, or simply the intensity of the Guwahati heat?

Despite the emotional optics, Jadeja remained a thorough professional on the field. He finished his spell with clinical figures of 2/18 in 3 overs, claiming the wickets of Sarfaraz Khan and Shivam Dube. Speaking after the game, Jadeja focused on his performance and his new look.

“I felt the wicket was a bit sticky, and the ball was turning, so I really enjoyed bowling. My job was just to hit the right areas and let the pitch do the rest,” Jadeja noted. When asked about his transition to the Royals, he added with a smile, “I think pink looks good on me.”

Here’s the video:

Ravindra Jadeja got emotional while playing against his former team, CSK. 💔#RavindraJadeja #Jadeja #CSK #IPL #IPL2026 #Cricket #CricketFans #IndianCricket #IPLUpdates #CricketReels #CricketLovers #Dhoni #CSKFans pic.twitter.com/mCAClf3dof

— Team India 2.0 (@teamindia_2_0) March 30, 2026

Also READ: RR vs CSK, IPL 2026: Ravindra Jadeja opens up on Shivam Dube send-off and whether he misses his former franchise

RR dominate CSK to start on top in IPL 2026 

While the emotional subplot took center stage online, the match itself was a one-sided affair that saw the Rajasthan Royals exert total dominance. Choosing to bowl first, the RR attack, led by Player of the Match Nandre Burger (2/26) and supported by Jofra Archer (2/19), dismantled the CSK top order.

CSK’s innings never found its rhythm. Sanju Samson (playing for CSK) fell for 7, while captain Ruturaj Gaikwad could only muster 11. Aside from minor resistance from Matthew Short and Jamie Overton, the Chennai outfit folded for a meager 127 in 19.4 overs.

The chase was a mere formality for the Royals. Young prodigy Vaibhav Suryavanshi played a scintillating knock, smashing 52 off just 17 balls, reaching his half-century in just 15 deliveries. Yashasvi Jaiswal remained unbeaten on 38, guiding RR to a comfortable 128/2 in just 12.1 overs.

Also READ: IPL 2026: Fans go berserk as clinical Rajasthan Royals thump Chennai Super Kings in Guwahati

The South Africa Women’s tour of New Zealand 2026 heads to the iconic Basin Reserve in Wellington for a crucial 2nd ODI. After a thrilling series opener that saw the Proteas pull off a dramatic heist, the White Ferns find themselves in a must-win territory to keep the three-match series alive.

The first ODI was a classic battle of attrition. New Zealand posted a competitive 268, thanks to a patient 85 from Maddy Green and a brisk 36 from captain Amelia Kerr. However, South Africa’s Ayabonga Khaka stole the show with a magnificent 6-wicket haul, dismantling the Kiwi middle order.

The chase was equally intense. Annerie Dercksen played the innings of her life, scoring 72 to guide South Africa home with just two wickets to spare. New Zealand’s bowlers, led by the Kerr sisters, fought until the final over but couldn’t quite break the Proteas’ resilience

NZ-W vs SA-W, 2nd ODI: Match details

• Date and Time: April 1; 3:30 am IST / 10:00 pm GMT (March 31) / 11:00 am Local
• Venue: Basin Reserve, Wellington

NZ-W vs SA-W, Head-to-Head Record in ODIs

Matches played: 22 | South Africa won: 10 | New Zealand won: 12| No result: 0

Basin Reserve Pitch Report

The Basin Reserve in Wellington is renowned for its distinctive green tinge, which typically offers significant assistance to seamers during the first hour of play. Expect the surface to provide generous bounce and carry, making life difficult for the openers against the new ball. However, as the match progresses and the sun bakes the turf, the track tends to flatten out, becoming a batter’s paradise with true pace and reliable bounce. While spinners may find some grip later in the day, the breeze blowing across the ground often becomes a tactical factor for bowlers defending the shorter boundaries.

Squads

New Zealand Women: Suzie Bates, Georgia Plimmer, Amelia Kerr (c), Izzy Sharp, Brooke Halliday, Maddy Green, Isabella Gaze (wk), Nensi Patel, Jess Kerr, Rosemary Mair, Bree Illing, Kayley Knight, Flora Devonshire

South Africa Women: Laura Wolvaardt (c), Tazmin Brits, Sune Luus, Kayla Reyneke, Annerie Dercksen, Sinalo Jafta (wk), Chloe Tryon, Nadine de Klerk, Tumi Sekhukhune, Nonkululeko Mlaba, Ayanda Hlubi, Masabata Klaas, Ayabonga Khaka, Anneke Bosch, Karabo Meso

Also READ: NZ-W vs SA-W, 1st ODI: Kayla Reyneke clinches last-ball thriller for South Africa

NZ-W vs SA-W, 2nd ODI: Today’s Match Prediction

Case 1:

• New Zealand wins the toss and bat first
• New Zealand’s powerplay score: 50-60
• New Zealand’s total score: 260-280

Case 2:

• South Africa wins the toss and bat first
• South Africa’s powerplay score: 60-70
• South Africa’s total score: 280-300

Match Result: Team batting first to win the contest

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

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

Mumbai Indians began their IPL 2026 campaign with a commanding win over Kolkata Knight Riders at the iconic Wankhede Stadium, successfully chasing down a daunting 221-run target with surprising ease. What was expected to be a closely fought contest turned into a one-sided affair as MI’s batters dominated proceedings, handing KKR a tough start to their season.

The chase was headlined by a blistering opening stand led by Rohit Sharma, whose aggressive approach in the powerplay set the tone early. With contributions flowing from the top order, Mumbai Indians cruised to victory in just 19.1 overs, losing only four wickets in the process. However, amid KKR’s disappointing bowling display, one player who came under heavy scrutiny was their mystery spinner Varun Chakaravarthy.

Kris Srikkanth criticises Varun Chakaravarthy’s disappointing show against Mumbai Indians

Former India captain Kris Srikkanth did not hold back in his assessment of Chakaravarthy’s performance, openly criticising the spinner for his ineffective bowling and lack of variety. Speaking on his YouTube channel after the match, Srikkanth pointed out that Varun’s over-reliance on googlies has made him predictable in the eyes of modern batters. He stressed the need for the spinner to rediscover his leg-spin and bring more variation into his game.

According to Srikkanth, Varun’s “mystery” factor has faded significantly, making it easier for batters to read him. He added that unless the spinner evolves and develops a fuller range of deliveries, he could continue to struggle at the highest level. The criticism comes after a disappointing outing where Varun conceded 48 runs in his four overs without picking up a single wicket—figures that proved costly in a high-scoring encounter.

“Unless Varun Chakaravarthy learns to spin the ball and bowl leg-spin, he will struggle. Just bowling googlies all the time will not sustain. He has to get some variations and get the leg-spin going. There is no mystery with him anymore. Your mystery has become history,” said Srikkanth.

Also WATCH: IPL 2026 – Heartwarming proposal in the stands steals the show during MI vs KKR game at Wankhede

Powerplay gamble backfires against Rohit Sharma

Srikkanth also questioned KKR’s tactical decision to introduce Chakaravarthy during the powerplay, particularly against a batter of Rohit’s calibre. The move backfired almost immediately, as Rohit took the spinner on, striking boundaries and a six to seize momentum. The former Indian captain believes that bowling Varun early in the innings dented his confidence. Once put under pressure, the spinner appeared to lose control, resorting to quicker deliveries that further played into the hands of Mumbai’s batters.Srikkanth emphasised that spinners like Varun are more effective when they operate outside the powerplay, where they can rely on deception rather than pace.

“Bowl leg-spin and take the ball away from the batters. That’s when batters will fear you. Firstly, he should not be given the ball in the powerplay. Rohit Sharma finished the match in his over itself in the powerplay. Varun Chakaravarthy’s confidence got dented there itself, and after that, he started bowling fast,” added Srikkanth.

Chakaravarthy’s struggles are not limited to this match alone. The spinner has endured a difficult run in recent months, including a challenging phase during the latter half of the T20 World Cup 2026, despite India eventually lifting the trophy.

Also READ: MI Coach Mahela Jayawardene explains why Suryakumar Yadav played as impact player in IPL 2026 clash against KKR

When Ravindra Jadeja walked out against Chennai Super Kings (CSK) in IPL 2026, it wasn’t just another match – it was personal. After spending over a decade with CSK, seeing him in the pink jersey of Rajasthan Royals (RR) felt unfamiliar to many fans. But on the field, Jadeja looked completely at ease, delivering a match-winning spell that reminded everyone of his class.

His figures of 2/18 in three overs played a key role in bundling CSK out for just 127. More than the numbers, it was the timing of his wickets that stood out. He broke the backbone of CSK’s middle order and shifted the momentum firmly in Rajasthan’s favour.

Ravindra Jadeja reflects on emotional CSK exit and strong start with RR

After the game, Jadeja didn’t shy away from addressing the emotional side of things. Leaving a franchise where he built his legacy wasn’t easy, and he admitted it openly.

“At first, it was a little difficult because I had played for CSK for around 12-13 years, so it was naturally an emotional time. But then I thought that this too is a part of the journey,” he said.

Still, there was a sense of comfort in returning to Rajasthan – the team where it all began for him.

“And the good thing is that I am going back to the team with which I won my first IPL title. So for me, those memories were always special – after the Under-19 phase, that was where I began my IPL journey, and in my very first year, we won the IPL title. That memory has always stayed with me,” he added.

It’s clear that while the emotions were mixed, Jadeja has embraced this new chapter with a positive mindset.

Jadeja breaks silence on Shivam Dube’s dismissal

One of the most talked-about moments of the match came during Jadeja’s battle with Shivam Dube. After being hit for a six, many expected Dube to continue his aggressive approach. Jadeja, however, had other plans.

He smartly adjusted his line, bowling it wider outside off. Dube took the bait, went for another big shot, and ended up finding a fielder at long-off. It was a classic case of a bowler outthinking a batter – and Jadeja knew exactly what he was doing.

Explaining the moment in the mid-innings break, he said: “I have known him for a long time. I was bowling to him in the nets. I know how he thinks and what he looks to do. I was prepared for that and tried to bowl outside off, because I knew he would look to play big shots against me.”

In the same spell, Jadeja also removed Sarfaraz Khan, leaving CSK struggling at 57/6. From there, the innings never really recovered.

It showed how experience and game awareness can make all the difference. Jadeja didn’t rely on pace or mystery – just pure cricketing intelligence and familiarity with his opponent’s mindset.

Jadeja reacts to his ‘gun’ celebration 

Right after dismissing Dube, Jadeja pulled out his now-viral ‘gun’ celebration. The gesture quickly caught attention, with fans debating whether it was aimed at his former team. But Jadeja cleared the air in his own straightforward way.

“I used to do this celebration when I played for CSK, so I thought, why not continue with it here as well,” he said.

Also READ: IPL 2026 – “Ghar ki yaad nahi aayi” – Ravindra Jadeja’s ‘gun’ celebration after dismissing Shivam Dube sparks Dhurandhar memes

For him, it wasn’t about sending a message – it was simply about staying true to himself. The celebration, like his game, remains unchanged regardless of the jersey he wears.

And speaking of jerseys, Jadeja seems to be enjoying his return to RR. When asked about being back in pink after so many years, he responded with a smile: “I think pink looks good on me, I guess.”

That light-hearted remark summed up his current mindset perfectly – relaxed, confident, and fully settled in his new environment.

Looking ahead, Jadeja made it clear that he’s focused on contributing to his new team while continuing to grow.

“With those memories, and with a positive mindset, I felt good about going there. I knew I would get to learn new things with a new group, and I would also be able to share my experience with the people there.”

For Rajasthan Royals (RR), this version of Jadeja is a massive boost. And for fans, it’s a reminder that while teams may change, true match-winners always find a way to shine.

Also READ: IPL 2026 – Fans go berserk as clinical Rajasthan Royals thump Chennai Super Kings in Guwahati

The brand-new Maharaja Yadavindra Singh International Cricket Stadium in Mullanpur provides the backdrop as the Punjab Kings (PBKS) welcome the Gujarat Titans (GT) for the fourth fixture of IPL 2026.

Both franchises carry significant chips on their shoulders this season. For Shreyas Iyer’s Punjab Kings, it’s a quest for redemption following their agonizing 6-run defeat in the 2025 final. Conversely, Shubman Gill’s Titans are hungry to recapture the relentless consistency that marked their debut seasons.

Captain Iyer commands a largely stable roster. However, with Lockie Ferguson sidelined due to a delayed arrival, the pace attack will likely rely on either Xavier Bartlett or Marco Jansen to spearhead the overseas bowling department.

The visitors have added serious muscle to their bowling unit by signing Mohammed Siraj and the experienced Jason Holder. Despite these changes, their greatest strength remains the opening duo of Gill and 2025 Orange Cap holder Sai Sudharsan, widely regarded as the most formidable pair in the competition.

Maharaja Yadavindra Singh International Cricket Stadium Pitch report

The Maharaja Yadavindra Singh International Cricket Stadium in Mullanpur continues to provide a well-balanced surface that facilitates a gripping contest between bat and ball. Characterized by its sand-based outfield and advanced herringbone drainage system, the pitch offers reliable bounce and excellent carry for fast bowlers, especially during the initial Powerplay overs. As the match unfolds, the track typically slows down, granting spinners the opportunity to find significant grip and turn. Given that par scores generally hover between 180 and 200 and with dew likely to influence play during the second innings, the captain winning the toss will almost certainly choose to bowl first.

Also READ: PBKS vs GT, IPL 2026, Match Prediction: Who will win today’s game between Punjab Kings and Gujarat Titans?

New Chandigarh Weather Forecast

The weather forecast for New Chandigarh on match day, Tuesday, March 31, 2026, indicates a high of 31°C and a low of 17°C, with a 10% chance of rain during both day and night. Currently, conditions are mostly cloudy with a temperature of 28°C and 39% humidity, while the wind is blowing from the northwest at 5 mph. For the evening period, the sky is expected to transition to clear conditions, accompanied by a northwest wind at 6 mph and a humidity level of 36%. With the UV index peaking at 4 during the day, fans can expect a relatively dry and pleasant evening for cricket, as the minimal precipitation probability suggests the match is unlikely to face significant weather interruptions.

Also READ: PBKS vs GT, IPL 2026: Probable XI for Match 4, Maharaja Yadavindra Singh International Cricket Stadium T20 Stats and Records

The stage is set for a high-stakes encounter as the Punjab Kings (PBKS) host the Gujarat Titans (GT) in the 4th match of IPL 2026. This clash features two young Indian captains, Shreyas Iyer and Shubman Gill, both looking to kick off their campaigns with a statement win at PBKS’s new fortress in Mullanpur.

PBKS enters this season as the 2025 runners-up, having built a squad that prioritizes an aggressive Indian batting core. The opening duo of Priyansh Arya and Prabhsimran Singh will be the ones to watch after their explosive synergy last year.

On the other hand, GT remains one of the most balanced units in the league. With the addition of Jos Buttler and the steady rise of Sai Sudharsan, their top order looks formidable. The battle between Arshdeep Singh’s death bowling and Gill’s clinical strokeplay is expected to be the highlight of the night.

PBKS vs GT, Head-to-Head Record in IPL

Matches played: 6 | PBKS won: 3 | GT won: 3 | No result/Tied: 0

Probable XI of Both Teams

Punjab Kings: Priyansh Arya, Prabhsimran Singh (wk), Cooper Connolly, Shreyas Iyer (c), Nehal Wadhera, Shashank Singh, Marcus Stoinis, Marco Jansen, Harpreet Brar, Arshdeep Singh, Yuzvendra Chahal.

Impact Player options: Yash Thakur / Musheer Khan

Gujarat Titans: Shubman Gill (c), Jos Buttler (wk), Sai Sudharsan, Glenn Phillips, Shahrukh Khan, Rahul Tewatia, Rashid Khan, Washington Sundar, Kagiso Rabada, Mohammed Siraj, Prasidh Krishna.

Impact Player options: Sai Kishore / Anuj Rawat

Also WATCH: IPL 2026 – Rohit Sharma hilariously teases Ajinkya Rahane during tense injury moment in MI vs KKR match

IPL Stats and Records at Barsapara Cricket Stadium

• Total matches: 11
• Matches won batting first: 6
• Matches won bowling first: 5
• No Result: 0
• Average 1st Inns scores: 170
• Average 2nd Inns scores: 143
• Highest total recorded: 228/5 (20 ov) by MI vs GT, 2025
• Lowest total recorded: 95/10 (15.1 Ov) by KKR vs PBKS, 2025
• Highest score chased: 177/6 (19.2 Ov) by PBKS vs DC, 2024
• Lowest score defended: 111/10 (15.3 Ov) by PBKS vs KKR, 2025

Also READ: MI Coach Mahela Jayawardene explains why Suryakumar Yadav played as impact player in IPL 2026 clash against KKR

The stage is set at the brand-new Maharaja Yadavindra Singh International Cricket Stadium in Mullanpur as the Punjab Kings (PBKS) host the Gujarat Titans (GT) in the fourth match of IPL 2026.

Both teams enter the season with significant points to prove. Shreyas Iyer’s Punjab Kings are looking for redemption after a heartbreaking 6-run loss in the 2025 final, while Shubman Gill’s Titans aim to reclaim the consistency that defined their early years in the league.

Iyer leads a settled unit. The absence of Lockie Ferguson (delayed arrival due to personal reasons) means Xavier Bartlett or Marco Jansen will likely lead the international pace quota. Whereas, the Titans have bolstered their squad with Mohammed Siraj and veteran Jason Holder. The opening pair of Gill and Sai Sudharsan (2025 Orange Cap winner) remains the most dangerous in the league.

PBKS vs GT, IPL 2026: Match details

• Date and Time: March 31; 7:30 pm IST / 2 pm GMT
• Venue: Maharaja Yadavindra Singh International Cricket Stadium, Mullanpur, New Chandigarh

PBKS vs GT, Head-to-Head Record in IPL

Matches played: 6 | CSK won: 3 | RR won: 3 | No result/Tied: 0

Maharaja Yadavindra Singh International Cricket Stadium Pitch report

The Maharaja Yadavindra Singh International Cricket Stadium in Mullanpur continues to be a balanced surface that offers a fascinating contest between bat and ball. Known for its sand-based outfield and herringbone drainage, the pitch provides consistent bounce and carries well for the pacers, particularly in the Powerplay. As the game progresses, the surface tends to slow down slightly, allowing spinners to extract grip and turn. With a par score typically ranging between 180 and 200, and dew expected to impact the second innings, the captain winning the toss will likely elect to bowl first.

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Squads

Punjab Kings: Shreyas Iyer (c), Harnoor Singh, Nehal Wadhera, Priyansh Arya, Pyla Avinash, Prabhsimran Singh, Vishnu Vinod, Harpreet Brar, Musheer Khan, Shashank Singh, Suryansh Shedge, Praveen Dubey, Yuzvendra Chahal, Arshdeep Singh, Vijaykumar Vyshak, Vishal Nishad, Yash Thakur, Azmatullah Omarzai*, Ben Dwarshuis*, Cooper Connolly*, Marcus Stoinis*, Mitchell Owen*, Xavier Bartlett*, Marco Jansen*, Lockie Ferguson*

Gujarat Titans: Shubman Gill (captain), Sai Sudharsan, Shahrukh Khan, Anuj Rawat, Kumar Kushagra, Washington Sundar, Manav Suthar, Rahul Tewatia, Nishant Sindhu, Jayant Yadav, Arshad Khan, Sai Kishore, Mohammed Siraj, Prasidh Krishna, Gurnoor Brar, Ishant Sharma, Ashok Sharma, Kulwant Khejroliya, Jos Buttler*, Tom Banton*, Luke Wood*, Glenn Phillips*, Jason Holder*, Rashid Khan*, Kagiso Rabada*

PBKS vs GT, IPL 2026: Today’s Match Prediction

Case 1:

• PBKS wins the toss and bowls first
• GT’s powerplay score: 50-60
• GT’s total score: 180-190

Case 2:

• GT wins the toss and bowls first
• PBKS’s powerplay score: 70-80
• PBKS’s total score: 220-230

Match result: Team bowling first to win the contest

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