Cricket Winner - It’s All about News, Stats, Tips & Analysis https://www.cricketwinner.com Join Cricket Winner for top-notch match analysis, news, match predictions and fantasy cricket insights. Be part of our passionate community, predict match outcomes, and win exciting prizes Fri, 20 Mar 2026 20:22:49 GMT https://validator.w3.org/feed/docs/rss2.html https://github.com/jpmonette/feed en Copyright © 2024 Cricket Winner. All Rights Reserved. <![CDATA[5 bowlers CSK can sign as replacement for Nathan Ellis ahead of IPL 2026]]> https://www.cricketwinner.com/cricket-analysis/5-bowlers-csk-can-sign-as-replacement-for-nathan-ellis-ahead-of-ipl-2026/ https://www.cricketwinner.com/cricket-analysis/5-bowlers-csk-can-sign-as-replacement-for-nathan-ellis-ahead-of-ipl-2026/ Sat, 21 Mar 2026 00:06:01 GMT

Chennai Super Kings have suffered a major setback ahead of IPL 2026, with Australian fast bowler Nathan Ellis ruled out of the tournament due to a hamstring injury.

The 31-year-old was last seen in action for Tasmania during the One-Day Cup final in Hobart, where he returned figures of 2/26 from five overs in a losing effort against New South Wales. While the exact moment of the injury is unclear, Ellis had already been managing a hamstring issue, which had earlier forced him to miss the knockout stage of the Big Bash League, where he captained the Hobart Hurricanes.

Over time, Ellis has built a strong reputation as a dependable death-over specialist. His ability to vary pace and use slower balls and cutters effectively makes him a valuable asset in the T20 format. The Aussie pacer also played a key role for CSK last season as their primary death bowler. Following the release of Matheesha Pathirana before the auction, Ellis was expected to lead the pace attack in the crucial final overs once again.

His bowling style is well-suited to the conditions at M. A. Chidambaram Stadium, making his absence a significant blow for the five-time champions. In response, CSK will now need to reassess their options. Within the current squad, Jamie Overton and Gurjapneet Singh present internal solutions. However, the franchise may also explore the option of signing a replacement player from the auction pool.

According to CSK CEO Kasi Viswanathan, the team management is actively working to identify a suitable replacement ahead of the new season.

With that in mind, here is a look at five overseas fast bowlers CSK could consider as potential replacements for Ellis.

Also read -Chennai Super Kings suffer major blow as key pacer ruled out of IPL 2026

1. Gerald Coetzee (South Africa)

Gerald Coetzee is a fast bowler from South Africa

Gerald Coetzee is a fast bowler from South Africa who has played in the IPL for the Gujarat Titans and Mumbai Indians in the last two seasons. He has also been part of the Johannesburg Super Kings in the SA20 league. However, he was not selected by South Africa for the 2026 T20 World Cup. He has taken 15 wickets in 14 matches and can also bat in the lower order when needed.

Although his form has not been consistent, Coetzee has useful skills. He bowls with pace and hits the pitch hard, which can work well at M. A. Chidambaram Stadium. His presence can also bring balance to the Chennai Super Kings bowling attack, which mainly depends on new-ball bowlers. In addition, he can score some runs lower down the order. Coetzee has already played for two Super Kings teams, including Johannesburg and Texas, so the team management is likely to know him well.

In his first IPL season in 2024, he took 13 wickets in 10 matches for Mumbai Indians. Later, he was picked by Gujarat Titans in the 2025 mega auction, where he played four matches and took four wickets.

2. Fazalhaq Farooqi (Afghanistan)

Fazalhaq Farooqi, the Afghanistan pacer, brings prior IPL experience, having represented the Rajasthan Royals

Fazalhaq Farooqi, the Afghanistan pacer, brings prior IPL experience, having represented the Rajasthan Royals. He has also been a regular member of the Afghanistan side in T20 cricket.

The left-arm seamer has taken 6 wickets in 12 IPL matches so far. However, his economy rate of 10.32 remains an area of concern. In international T20s, the Afghan pacer has been more effective, picking up 66 wickets in 54 matches.

Despite some inconsistency, he offers useful variety with his left-arm pace. This could add balance to the Chennai Super Kings bowling unit. In addition, he has the ability to bowl in the death overs, making him a practical option for the team.

3. Ottniel Baartman (South Africa)

Ottniel Baartman, the South African pacer, is seen as one of the closest replacements for Nathan Ellis

Ottniel Baartman, the South African pacer, is seen as one of the closest replacements for Nathan Ellis. He is known for his strong death bowling and control in the final overs.

The Proteas quick has received high praise from Keshav Maharaj, who called him one of the best death bowlers he has seen. Baartman is known for his accuracy and calm execution at the end of an innings.

He was the top wicket-taker in the 2026 SA20, picking up 20 wickets in nine matches for the Paarl Royals. The South African pacer also played an important role in Sunrisers Eastern Cape winning back-to-back titles in 2023 and 2024. In addition, he was part of South Africa’s run to the T20 World Cup final in 2024.

Baartman went unsold in the IPL 2026 auction, which makes him available as a replacement option. He has also played for the Texas Super Kings, so he is familiar with the team environment.

With his experience and skillset, he could be a good fit for the Chennai Super Kings. His inclusion can add balance to the bowling attack, especially in the death overs.

4. Shamar Joseph (West Indies)

Shamar Joseph, the West Indies pacer, could be a strong option if the Chennai Super Kings are looking for an express fast bowler to replace Nathan Ellis.

Shamar Joseph, the West Indies pacer, could be a strong option if the Chennai Super Kings are looking for an express fast bowler to replace Nathan Ellis.

The young quick was part of the West Indies squad in the 2026 T20 World Cup and has taken 26 wickets in 22 T20I matches so far. Known for his pace and aggression, the Caribbean pacer can trouble batters, especially on lively surfaces.

Joseph also has experience in the IPL. He made his debut for Lucknow Super Giants in 2024 and was retained by the franchise during the 2025 mega auction. This shows that he is valued for his potential and skill.

While he is not a like-for-like death specialist, his raw pace can add a different dimension to the CSK bowling attack. If used well, he can provide breakthroughs and support the pace unit with his attacking style.

5. Sean Abbott (Australia)

Sean Abbott, the Australian pacer, is a strong option for Chennai Super Kings, as he fits their preference for experienced fast bowlers.

Sean Abbott, the Australian pacer, is a strong option for Chennai Super Kings, as he fits their preference for experienced fast bowlers.

Abbott has been a consistent performer in T20 cricket. He is the leading wicket-taker in the Big Bash League, with over 180 wickets. His record shows his ability to perform well, especially in pressure situations.

The Australian quick is known for his accuracy and control, particularly in the death overs. This makes him a suitable replacement for Nathan Ellis. He has taken more than 250 wickets in T20 cricket at an economy rate of around 8.62.

Abbott is also a regular part of the Australian T20 setup and was included as a travelling reserve for the 2026 T20 World Cup. In international T20s, he has taken 34 wickets in 29 matches.

In addition to his bowling, he can contribute with the bat in the lower order. He is capable of scoring important runs in the final overs, which adds depth to the team.

His all-round ability allows CSK to strengthen both their bowling and batting. Abbott last played in the IPL in 2022 for Sunrisers Hyderabad, and his experience makes him a reliable and balanced option.

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<![CDATA[World Record Alert: Rwanda's Fanny Utagushimaninde becomes youngest centurion in Women T20Is history]]> https://www.cricketwinner.com/cricket-news/world-record-alert-rwanda-s-fanny-utagushimaninde-becomes-youngest-centurion-in-women-t20is-history/ https://www.cricketwinner.com/cricket-news/world-record-alert-rwanda-s-fanny-utagushimaninde-becomes-youngest-centurion-in-women-t20is-history/ Fri, 20 Mar 2026 22:18:11 GMT

In the opening game of the Nigeria Invitational Women's T20I Tournament 2025-26, Rwanda Women opener Fanny Utagushimaninde created history with her century on Women's T20I debut.

On Friday (March 20), Rwanda Women faced Ghana Women at Lagos. After Rwanda Women chose to bat first, they scored 210/3 in 20 overs, thanks to the century by the debutant opener Fanny Utagushimaninde. In reply, Ghana Women were restricted to 88/8 in 20 overs, as Rwanda Women won by 122 runs. 

In the Ghana Women's innings, which recorded three run-outs, the no.3 batter Kate Awuah (31) was the only one to manage the 15-run mark. 

With this strong win, Rwanda Women earned two points in their first game of the tournament. 

Who is Fanny Utagushimaninde?

Debuting at the age of 15 years and 223 days, Fanny Utagushimaninde scored an impressive century, as she scored 111 not out off 65 balls with 17 fours. According to the ESPNcricinfo scoreboard, Fanny completed her historic century in 59 balls, where the right-handed batter hit 17 fours. 

See Also: India women's national cricket team to tour South Africa women's national cricket team for one-off Test and WODIs in December 2026

Fanny Utagushimaninde's records

Fanny set two new records in Women's T20I history. 

  • Fanny became the first debutant batter to record a century in Women's T20I history. Meanwhile, men's T20I has experienced four centuries by the debutants, with the highest score of 108 not out by Matthew Spoors from Canada against the Philippines at Al Amerat in 2022. 
  • Fanny records the youngest centurion in Women's T20I history. The previous record was 16 years and 233 days by Prosscovia Alako from Uganda Women vs Mali Women at Rwanda in 2019. In fact, Fanny holds the record for the youngest century in overall T20I history, including the men's T20Is, where the record is 18 years and 280 days old Gustav Mckeon from France (vs Switzerland at Vantaa in 2022). 

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<![CDATA[NSW vs QUN Dream11 Prediction Today: Final Match, Pitch Report, Playing XI & Fantasy Tips]]> https://www.cricketwinner.com/fantasy-cricket-tips/nsw-vs-qun-dream11-prediction-today-final-match-pitch-report-playing-xi-fantasy-tips/ https://www.cricketwinner.com/fantasy-cricket-tips/nsw-vs-qun-dream11-prediction-today-final-match-pitch-report-playing-xi-fantasy-tips/ Fri, 20 Mar 2026 21:31:58 GMT

Queensland and New South Wales will meet in the Women's National Cricket League final for the second time in a row. Queensland is making its third straight appearance in the Final. Last year, NSW Women defeated Queensland Women by 21 runs in the Final in Brisbane. In the 2025/26 season, NSW leads Queensland 1-0 in head-to-head matches. The final is going to be played at the exact same venue where New South Wales defeated Queensland earlier this season. Cricket Central in Sydney held six matches of the Women's National Cricket League 2025/26. Teams that bat first have won five of these games, with four of them by more than 30 runs. NSW Women suffered their first loss of the season in a recent match against South Australia.

NSW vs QUN Match Details

New South Wales Breakers Women vs Queensland Fire Women – Final Match, Women's National Cricket League 2025

Venue: The Oval Cricket Ground, Pietermaritzburg  

Date & Time: 21st March 2026 at 04:30 AM IST 

Live Streaming: FanCode

NSW vs QUN Venue Stats 

Avg 1st inn score186
Avg 2nd inn score174
Win% batting 1st39
Win% batting 2nd61

NSW vs QUN Pitch Report

Cricket Central Sydney has a firm and lively pitch that typically favours fast bowlers due to steady bounce and pace, resulting in exciting and dynamic gameplay. 

NSW vs QUN Weather Report

The weather report predicts cloudy conditions on match day. The temperature is expected to be between 23 and 12 degrees Celsius.

NSW vs QUN Last Five Matches

NSW ( New South Wales Breakers Women)
W W W W W
QUN (Queensland Fire Women)
W W L L L

NSW vs QUN Head-to-Head Stats

 Matches PlayedQUN WonNSW WonTieNR
Overall20101
Last 520101

Injury News

No Injury. Will be added when there is an update. 

Also Read: NSW-W vs QUN-W Today Match Prediction

NSW vs QUN Probable Playing XIs:

New South Wales Breakers Women Probable Playing XIs

Tahlia Wilson (wk), Katie Mack, Anerika Learoyd, Claire Moore, Georgia Adams, Matilan Brown, Lucy Finn, Sarah Coyte, Lauren Cheatle (c), Frankie Nicklin, Samantha Bates 

Queensland Fire Women Probable Playing XIs

Georgia Redmayne (c & wk), Charli Knott, Grace Harris, Lauren Winfield-Hill, Sianna Ginger, Jess Jonassen, Lucinda Bourke, Annie O'Neil, Nicola Hancock, Ruby Strange, Grace Parsons

Topmost Picks for NSW vs QUN Dream11 Prediction:

Top Picks – Queensland Fire Women

  • Jess Jonassen – Jess Jonassen is the leading run scorer for Queensland Fire Women, scoring 294 runs in 4 matches with a strike rate of 96.71.
  • Charli Knott – Charli Knott is the leading wicket-taker for Queensland Fire Women, taking 10 wickets in 4 matches, with an economy of 5.17.

Top Picks – New South Wales Breakers Women

  • Georgia Adams – Georgia Adams is the leading run scorer for New South Wales Breakers Women, scoring 194 runs in 5 matches with a strike rate of 110.23.
  • Samantha Bates – Samantha Bates is the leading wicket-taker for New South Wales Breakers Women, taking 5 wickets in 5 matches, with an economy of 5.71.

Suggested Playing XI N0.1 for NSW vs QUN Dream11 Team:

Lauren Winfield-Hill, Tahlia Wilson, Katie Mack, Grace Harris, Jess Jonassen(C), Charli Knott, Sianna Ginger, Lucy Finn(VC), Nicola Hancock, Sarah Coyte, Matilan Brown

NSW vs QUN

Captain and Vice-Captain Options:

Captain – Jess Jonassen, Grace Harris

Vice-captain – Lucy Finn, Tahlia Wilson

Wicketkeeper – Lauren Winfield-Hill

NSW vs QUN Probable Winners:

This will be a close game. No team emerges as a clear winner in our review. The hosts are at risk with the bat, while the visitors have an effective bowling attack. This strengthens Queensland's case. However, NSW Women have excelled at this venue and have a formidable bowling attack. The visitors have a solid middle order of players who can fight back in the event of a top-order collapse. All indications point to a close contest, with NSW slightly better in our match prediction. In comparison, the home team's middle-order has an advantage because it is more likely to rebuild the match and lead the team to a competitive total if the top-order fails. The NSW Women will have an advantage in this match.  Considering the team combination, New South Wales Women is expected to win this match.

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<![CDATA[Royal Challengers Bengaluru sideline Yash Dayal for Indian Premier League 2026 amid ongoing situation ]]> https://www.cricketwinner.com/cricket-news/royal-challengers-bengaluru-sideline-yash-dayal-for-indian-premier-league-2026-amid-ongoing-situation/ https://www.cricketwinner.com/cricket-news/royal-challengers-bengaluru-sideline-yash-dayal-for-indian-premier-league-2026-amid-ongoing-situation/ Fri, 20 Mar 2026 21:22:15 GMT

Ahead of the 2026 Indian Premier League (IPL 2026), Royal Challengers Bengaluru (RCB) takes a crucial decision by sidelining one of the key members of the present squad. According to fresh reports, controversial Indian paceman Yash Dayal is set to drop from RCB’s IPL 2026 plan because of the ongoing situation surrounding the player.  

On Friday (March 20) evening, it has been learnt that RCB will play the IPL 2026 season without Yash Dayal. Though an official confirmation is yet to be received regarding this.

Why Yash Dayal has been ruled out of IPL 2026

As per reports, the emerging pacer has been ruled out of IPL 2026 because of controversies related to him. Last year, it was widely reported that an FIR was filed against Dayal in Jaipur, accusing him of repeatedly sexually assaulting a minor in 2023. The allegation came weeks after a rape complaint was filed against him in Uttar Pradesh’s Ghaziabad by another woman.

“It is alleged that around two years ago, when the complainant was a minor, he raped her on multiple occasions after offering to help build her cricket career,” Sanganer Sadar police station SHO Anil Kumar Jaiman told Times of India in June, 2025.

Read More: Watch: Punjab Kings unveil new jersey ahead of Indian Premier League 2026

“This year, he contacted her again while in Jaipur for IPL duty, called her to his hotel, and allegedly raped her there,” he added.

Because of the legal matters, the 28-year-old was banned from playing the UP T20 League by the Uttar Pradesh Cricket Association. It was also reported that Dayal’s participation was also at risk from taking part in local of state level competitions as well, following the allegations.

Ahead of the IPL 2026, RCB faced backlash from the fans for retaining the controversial seamer.

How does this impact the Royal Challengers Bengaluru’s bowling attack?

Yash Dayal’s absence can affect the IPL 2024 winner’s plans for the upcoming season, as Dayal was considered one of the main parts in their bowling line-up. Australian pacer Josh Hazelwood will miss the initial few matches of the IPL 2026 because of a hamstring injury. As of now, Sri Lankan bowler Nuwan Thushara is also doubtful for the tournament as he is yet to receive a No Objection Certificate from the Sri Lanka Cricket (SLC).

If the trio remains uncertain also after the beginning of the tournament, then the experienced pacer Bhuvneshwar Kumar and spinner Suyash Sharma will have to carry extra burdens on their shoulders.   

Replacement options for Royal Challengers Bengaluru ahead of IPL 2026

It will be interesting to see whether the franchise announces any replacement for Yash Dayal. Who will be the potential replacement for the defending champions? Umesh Yadav, who played for RCB before, can be the frontrunner to take Dayal’s place.  Chetan Sakariya and Simarjeet Singh can also be appropriate to represent the Royal Challengers Bengaluru in the IPL 2026 campaign. 

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<![CDATA[Pakistan Super League faces player shortage risk as Indian Premier League 2026 injuries mount]]> https://www.cricketwinner.com/cricket-news/pakistan-super-league-faces-player-shortage-risk-as-indian-premier-league-2026-injuries-mount/ https://www.cricketwinner.com/cricket-news/pakistan-super-league-faces-player-shortage-risk-as-indian-premier-league-2026-injuries-mount/ Fri, 20 Mar 2026 20:53:31 GMT

As IPL 2026 and PSL 2026 are set to run simultaneously, the overseas players are becoming an important factor for both leagues, while a foreign player can choose only one league between these. While some foreign players have already joined the injury list ahead of the beginning of the IPL 2026, the PSL franchises are tense to secure their overseas names. 

The eight-team PSL 2026 is set to begin on March 26 and will end on May 3. Meanwhile, the 10-team IPL 2026 has been scheduled to begin on March 28, which will run till May 31. 

Before the beginning of the IPL 2026, some key overseas players have joined the injury list. While some players have already confirmed their complete miss of the season, others are battling against time to prove their fitness. Most of the names are bowlers, especially pacers. 

While the overseas injury lists are only rising with each passing day, the IPL franchises are working to fill the gap as soon as possible. 

See Also: Indian Premier League 2026: Full list of injured players ahead of upcoming season

How IPL 2026 injuries are impacting Pakistan Super League squads 

Last year, South African cricketer Corbin Bosch came to the limelight after he left the PSL midway for the IPL, as the Mumbai Indians added him to the squad. 

Ahead of the 2026 season, PSL has already lost Zimbabwe pacer Blessing Muzarabani, who left the PSL after the IPL team Kolkata Knight Riders signed him as the replacement for Bangladesh left-arm pacer Mustafizur Rahman. 

Moreover, Australian pacer Spencer Johnson, West Indies spinner Gudakesh Motie, English fast bowler Tymal Mills, and star batter Harry Brook, who is also white-ball captain of his nation, have also turned down PSL 2026 offers along with Afghanistan cricketers. According to the latest reports, South African pacer Ottniel Baartman can also leave PSL, as he is eyeing an IPL contract. 

So, the PSL 2026 is already under pressure with limited overseas availability. Now, PSL can only suffer more, while a few more IPL foreign players are getting injured. 

Players likely to miss PSL due to IPL fitness concerns

Jack Edwards, Sam Curran, Adam Milne, and Nathan Ellis are the names who have reportedly been ruled out of the IPL 2026 due to injuries. Moreover, injured Sri Lankan players are waiting for the NOC from the Sri Lanka Cricket, where the KKR pacer Matheesha Pathirana has reportedly missed in the recent attempt. 

In the present overseas players' chaos, the IPL franchises are feeling the heat to set up the team by filling the crucial foreign gaps. And, they are now running out of time, as the 19th edition of the IPL will begin next week. 

Ottniel Baartman, Spencer Johnson, Gudakesh Motie, etc., are the top names who can join IPL as the overseas replacements, as some believe that they have left PSL to remain open for the IPL season. 

What this means for Pakistan Super League 2026 teams and schedule

PSL 2026 has already been affected due to several withdrawals from overseas names. With the present situation in Pakistan, where security is a concern, the Australian government has already warned the players, while labeling Peshawar as a "do not travel zone." Also, Bangladesh players are reportedly waiting for government clearance to join the PSL teams due to security concerns. 

Although PSL 2026 has attracted strong values, the league has to prove itself with two additional teams. Strong overseas players, especially active cricketers, play a huge role in securing a strong value for any league. However, due to running the tournament simultaneously with the top brand IPL 2026, as it has been delayed due to the ICC Men's T20 World Cup 2026, PSL 2026 has failed to attract many big names from overseas. Moreover, security concern is playing an additional key factor for the tournament. 

 

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<![CDATA[Watch: Punjab Kings unveil new jersey ahead of Indian Premier League 2026]]> https://www.cricketwinner.com/cricket-news/punjab-kings-unveil-new-jersey-ahead-of-indian-premier-league-2026/ https://www.cricketwinner.com/cricket-news/punjab-kings-unveil-new-jersey-ahead-of-indian-premier-league-2026/ Fri, 20 Mar 2026 20:44:08 GMT

IPL 2026 is less than 10 days away from beginning, while the two-time runners-up Punjab Kings (PBKS), who lost the IPL 2025 final against Royal Challengers Bengaluru (RCB), have revealed the new jersey for the upcoming IPL 2026

Punjab Kings are among the underrated sides in IPL history, who failed to reach the playoffs for 10 straight seasons before their historic journey in the 2025 season. IPL 2025 Final was the battle to win the title for the first time between RCB and PBKS, and RCB won that match by six runs. 

The PBKS franchise now has a strong belief, which we can see from their players bodylanguages. It is time to prove themselves no longer underrated, which they can do by at least qualifying for the playoffs. 

See Also: Fans react as Peshawar Zalmi’s PSL 2026 jersey sparks ‘electric shock’ meme fest

First look at Punjab Kings’ IPL 2026 jersey design

On Friday (March 20), Punjab Kings unveiled their IPL 2026 jersey, where the skipper Shreyas Iyer and the left-arm pacer Arshdeep Singh were present. 

Punjab Kings fixtures for IPL 2026

Currently, the first 20 match fixtures have been released for the IPL 2026, as PBKS have two home games and two away matches.

  • March 31: Punjab Kings vs Gujarat Titans at New Chandigarh (19:30)
  • April 3: Chennai Super Kings vs Punjab Kings at Chennai (19:30)
  • April 6: Kolkata Knight Riders vs Punjab Kings at Kolkata (19:30)
  • April 11: Punjab Kings vs SunRisers Hyderabad at New Chandigarh (15:30)

Fans react to Punjab Kings’ fresh look for IPL 2026

There are mixed reactions among the fans after the new kits have been revealed by the franchise. 

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<![CDATA[Big update: Only 3 Sri Lankan players get NOC for Indian Premier League 2026]]> https://www.cricketwinner.com/cricket-news/only-3-sri-lankan-players-get-noc-for-indian-premier-league-2026/ https://www.cricketwinner.com/cricket-news/only-3-sri-lankan-players-get-noc-for-indian-premier-league-2026/ Fri, 20 Mar 2026 19:54:30 GMT

Indian Premier League 2026 (IPL 2026) can get a series of blows as multiple Sri Lankan stars are doubtful to take part in the tournament. Whilst most of the talks have been around the injured pacer Matheesha Pathirana, a few other Lankan internationals are also currently uncertain for IPL 2026 after fresh mandates are issued by the Sri Lanka Cricket.

Sri Lanka Cricket sets a bar for all of its players who are set to play in the 2026 Indian Premier League. As of now, only three Sri Lankan international cricketers have received No Objection Certificates (NOCs) from the board for the franchise league. 

Which Sri Lankan players received NOCs for IPL 2026

In a media release, published on March 20, the players, who are seeking NOCs to participate in the IPL 2026, will have to prove their fitness levels only through the board’s mandatory Physical Performance Test.

“Sri Lanka Cricket (SLC) has announced that players seeking to participate in the Indian Premier League (IPL) 2026 will only be granted a No Objection Certificate (NOC) after successfully passing the board’s mandatory Physical Performance Test,” the cricket board informed.

Read More: Watch: Hardik Pandya ignores fan during Ferrari outing goes viral ahead of IPL 2026

“As part of this program, players are required to undergo standard physical performance tests to ensure they meet the expected fitness benchmarks. Only those who achieve the required standards will be cleared to compete in domestic tournaments and be eligible for an NOC to participate in IPL 2026,” the official statement further reads.

The press release informed that Dushmantha Chameera, Pathum Nissanka, and Kamindu Mendis have completed the required tests and have been granted NOCs ahead of IPL 2026.

Other Lankan cricketers- Nuwan Thushara, Wanindu Hasaranga, Eshan Malinga, and Matheesha Pathirana- who are expected to play in the league, have yet to undergo testing. The board will only allow them to feature in the tournament if they manage to clear the fitness Test.

“So far, Dushmantha ChameeraPathum Nissanka, and Kamindu Mendis have successfully completed the required tests and have been granted NOCs,” Sri Lanka Cricket informed. 

“Meanwhile, Nuwan Thushara’s eligibility remains pending until he completes his Physical Performance Test. Wanindu Hasaranga, Eshan Malinga, and Matheesha Pathirana have requested NOCs but have yet to undergo testing as they continue their rehabilitation from injuries. They will complete the required tests once their recovery programs are finished,” the board said as the conclusion of the statement.

List of Sri Lankan players in the IPL 2026:

Name of the SL players

Team

Price

Role

Matheesha Pathirana

KKR

INR 18.00 Cr.

Right-arm fast bowler

Pathum Nissanka

DC

INR 4.00 Cr.

Top-order batter

Wanindu Hasaranga

LSG

INR 2.00 Cr.

Leg-spin all-rounder

Nuwan Thushara

RCB

Retained

Right-arm fast bowler

Kamindu Mendis

SRH

Retained

Batting all-rounder

Eshan Malinga

SRH

Retained

Right-arm fast bowler

Impact on Indian Premier League teams ahead of the 2026 season

The latest decision of the Sri Lanka cricket board can be a major flow of the upcoming Indian Premier League, which is scheduled to start on March 28. Without the presence of multiple renowned overseas cricketers, the league will surely lose some major talents.

Teams that are invested in the Island nation players will also have to rethink their strategies if their respective Sri Lankan cricketer(s) fail to prove their fitness to their cricket board.  

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<![CDATA[India women's national cricket team to tour South Africa women's national cricket team for one-off Test and WODIs in December 2026]]> https://www.cricketwinner.com/cricket-news/india-women-s-national-cricket-team-to-tour-south-africa-women-s-national-cricket-team-for-one-off-test-and-wodis-in-december-2026/ https://www.cricketwinner.com/cricket-news/india-women-s-national-cricket-team-to-tour-south-africa-women-s-national-cricket-team-for-one-off-test-and-wodis-in-december-2026/ Fri, 20 Mar 2026 18:38:47 GMT

South Africa is all set to host the Indian Women’s cricket team for a 3-match ODI series and a one-off Test.  The solitary Test will mark only the fourth match in Whites between the South Africa Women’s and India Women’s teams.

The highly anticipated bilateral series will officially kick off on December 9 with the first of the 3-match ODI series. Team India will have to travel across Potchefstroom, Bloemfontein, and Cape Town to play the first, second, and third ODI, respectively. The ODI series will be followed by one Test match.

Full schedule: WODIs from Dec 9–15, Test from Dec 20–23

It will be the Indian Women’s cricket team's second Test in the ongoing year. In the previous match, the Harmanpreet Kaur-led team suffered a 10-wicket defeat against Australia at the WACA in Perth. India faced the Proteas thrice in the format before. 

This will mark the fourth red-ball clash between the two sides and just the second Women’s Test to be played in Gqeberha, the first since South Africa hosted England at the venue in December 1960, according to the ICC.

Read More: NZ-W vs SA-W, 3rd T20I: Head-to-head, pitch report and predicted playing XIs

In all three Tests, Women in Blue had better hand over the South Africa Women’s Cricket Team. The previous meetings were in 2002, 2014, and 2024. The upcoming SA-W vs IND-W Test match will be held from December 20 to 23 in Gqeberha.

Before the start of the main series, the away team, which will be India, will play a warm-up match against South Africa Emerging in Benoni on December 6, which will help the team to acclimate to the local conditions.

Along with India, South Africa is all set to host Australia as well in the summer. It will be Australia Women’s maiden tour to South Africa. Like India, Australia will also face the home team for one Test match.

The cricket governing board of South Africa is excited to ensure the opportunity to host back-to-back series against two cricket-playing giants. The SA-W vs AUS-W will contain ODIs, T20Is, and a Test. The tour begins with a T20I series from March 18 in Kimberley.

“We are delighted to host two of the world's leading teams in India and Australia for what promises to be a blockbuster home summer for the Proteas Women,” CSA Chief Executive Officer Pholetsi Moseki said in an official statement.

“These tours will showcase the very best of international women's cricket and build on the encouraging rise in fan attendance, as we continue to welcome growing crowds across the country to watch world-class players competing at some of our iconic venues,” he added.

Currently, South Africa is engaged in a five-match T20I contest against New Zealand, as part of their preparations for the upcoming ICC Women’s T20 World Cup, which is scheduled to start in June in England & Wales.

 Venue details: Dafabet St George’s Park, Gqeberha to host historic Test

1st ODI - 9 December 2026, Potchefstroom
2nd ODI - 12 December 2026, Bloemfontein
3rd ODI - 15 December 2026, Cape Town, One-off Test - 20 to 23 December 2026, Gqeberha

 

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<![CDATA[IPL 2026: Top 3 best Kolkata Knight Riders (KKR) bowlers to watch out for this season]]> https://www.cricketwinner.com/cricket-analysis/ipl-2026-top-3-best-kolkata-knight-riders-kkr-bowlers-to-watch-out-for-this-season/ https://www.cricketwinner.com/cricket-analysis/ipl-2026-top-3-best-kolkata-knight-riders-kkr-bowlers-to-watch-out-for-this-season/ Fri, 20 Mar 2026 18:32:03 GMT

The Kolkata Knight Riders (KKR) will once again have Sunil Narine leading their bowling attack in IPL 2026. After finishing eighth last season, the Knights are determined to bounce back and aim for their fourth IPL title.

Injuries and last-minute changes have created some uncertainty in the squad, leaving fans guessing about the final team combination. However, based on current form and team balance, a few players look likely to play regularly, while one spot remains open for selection options.

Ajinkya Rahane will captain the side again, facing the challenge of managing injuries and inexperience in the bowling department. Harshit Rana, a long-time member of the KKR squad, will miss the tournament, while Matheesha Pathirana is expected to be unavailable for the first few games due to a hamstring injury sustained during the T20 World Cup.

To strengthen their pace attack, KKR has signed Zimbabwean fast bowler Blessing Muzarabani. He joins as a replacement for Mustafizur Rahman, who was released after the IPL 2026 auction at the request of the BCCI.

Despite these changes, KKR’s bowling lineup remains formidable, capable of challenging even the strongest batting units in the tournament. With a combination of experience, skill, and strategic leadership, fans can expect some exciting performances this season.

See also -KKR vs SRH IPL 2026 Tickets: Price, Booking Date & How to Book Full Step-by-Step Guide

Here are the top three bowlers to watch in the KKR squad:

3. Blessing Muzarabani

Muzarabani brings valuable T20 experience

Before joining KKR, Blessing Muzarabani was part of the Royal Challengers Bengaluru squad in IPL 2025 as a replacement player, although he did not play any matches.

He comes into IPL 2026 on the back of a strong performance in the ICC T20 World Cup 2026, where he took 13 wickets in 6 matches. He played a key role in helping Zimbabwe reach the Super 8 stage, including wins over Australia and Sri Lanka in the group stage.

The 6 feet 8 inches right-arm fast bowler has established himself as one of Zimbabwe’s leading pace bowlers in T20 cricket. He is known for his steep bounce and ability to strike at crucial moments in the game.

Muzarabani brings valuable T20 experience, having taken over 90 wickets in more than 80 T20 Internationals at an average of around 21, with best figures of 3/8. His pace, consistency, and experience in global leagues and international cricket add significant depth to KKR’s bowling attack for the upcoming season.

2. Varun Chakaravarthy

 the Tamil Nadu spinner was not at his very best.

Varun Chakaravarthy has been in excellent form over the last two IPL seasons. He has taken many wickets and troubled some of the best batters in the world with his mystery spin.

However, in the last IPL, the Tamil Nadu spinner was not at his very best. While he finished as one of the joint-highest wicket-takers, he gave away too many runs toward the end of the tournament. Chakaravarthy relied heavily on googlies and did not vary his pace enough. KKR fans will hope he comes back strong and performs at his best in IPL 2026.

1. Sunil Narine

Sunil Narine has been the most reliable bowler for KKR for many seasons

Sunil Narine has been the most reliable bowler for KKR for many seasons. He has remained consistent over the years, even after making changes to his bowling action.

Opposition teams rarely target Narine. He bowls economical spells, building pressure on batters. Batters often look to attack other bowlers, giving Narine chances to take wickets. With Andre Russell taking a coaching role this season, Narine is the most experienced player on the field and will be expected to guide and inspire the younger bowlers while making a strong impact in IPL 2026.

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<![CDATA[Watch: "Tremendous talent" -Shashi Tharoor praised Sanju Samson ahead of Indian Premier League 2026]]> https://www.cricketwinner.com/cricket-news/tremendous-talent-shashi-tharoor-praises-sanju-samson-ipl-2026/ https://www.cricketwinner.com/cricket-news/tremendous-talent-shashi-tharoor-praises-sanju-samson-ipl-2026/ Fri, 20 Mar 2026 17:33:15 GMT

Famous political leader Shashi Tharoor on Friday praised Indian cricketer Sanju Samson for his great performances in the recent T20 World Cup. He called him the "greatest product of Vizhinjam," the town in Kerala where Samson was born.

Speaking to ANI, Tharoor said the wicketkeeper-batter is a humble, focused, and very talented young man. He also thanked Samson’s community for helping him in his excellent World Cup performance.

Tharoor added that the former RR skipper does not need to be the next Mahendra Singh Dhoni. He can be "the one and only Sanju Samson." This is what Indian cricket coach Gautam Gambhir once told Tharoor when he remembered his earlier comment that Samson would be the next Dhoni.

Watch the video here:

See Also -Sanju Samson receives special praise from football legend after ICC Men's T20 World Cup 2026 heroics

Shashi Tharoor Praises Sanju Samson for Talent and Dedication

Tharoor, who has supported Samson since he was a young club cricketer, said he feels very proud of Samson’s achievements.

"He is a terrific young man. Very humble, very focused, and very good. He is a credit to his community, which is a fishing community in Vizhinjam in my area. Today, we have a big port in Vizhinjam, but the greatest product of Vizhinjam is still Sanju Samson," said Tharoor.

"I met him when he was 14. He was a small boy with a big smile. He was already muscular, though he looked slender. He had tremendous talent and could both keep wickets and bat well."

Tharoor added, "I once jokingly told him he would be the next Dhoni. Years later, my friend Gautam Gambhir said, 'No, he does not have to be the next Dhoni. He will be the one and only Sanju Samson.' And that is exactly what he has become."

"This young man is always focused, calm, and composed. Watching him bat was like poetry in motion. I want to see him back in the ODI team. Remember, his last ODI innings was a century, and yet he was dropped. He deserves another chance," said Tharoor.

Samson has been a great success—quiet, humble, and a good leader. Tharoor noted that Samson has led the Rajasthan Royals very well and will now play for CSK in the IPL.

Tharoor also praised Samson for bringing stability and anchoring the top of the order for India.

"When I watched him in tough times, I knew his core talent was always there. In the match against West Indies, I saw it in his eyes that he was not going to get out. He scored 97 not out and stayed strong," he said.

He added that in the semi-final and final, Samson scored 89 in both matches. "He could have played safe to reach a hundred, but he went for big shots to help the team. That shows he is selfless, talented, and dedicated. He has had bad luck too. He scored a century in an ODI but got dropped after that," said Tharoor.

Tharoor acknowledged that some of Samson’s exclusions were fair due to inconsistency. "But three strong innings in a row in a World Cup show consistency. I hope he continues to play well in ODIs, T20s, and someday in Tests. His talent deserves to shine in all forms of cricket," he said.

Sanju Samson Joins CSK, Excited to Play with Dhoni

Sanju Samson scored 321 runs in five matches at an average of 80.25 and a strike rate of 199.37. He hit 27 fours and 24 sixes, becoming the third-highest run-scorer in the T20 World Cup. He also broke Virat Kohli’s record of 319 runs in the 2014 T20 World Cup to set the highest runs by an Indian in a single edition.

The former Rajasthan Royals captain is now set to play alongside MS Dhoni for the first time in the IPL. Samson joined the CSK training camp before the IPL 2026 season. He arrived on Thursday, March 19, and was seen sharing a light-hearted chat with the Indian legend, exciting fans.

Samson called it an exciting moment to be with Dhoni, saying the veteran has always been a positive influence in his career.

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<![CDATA["Ignored for Years" - Sivaramakrishnan retires from BCCI commentary over color discrimination ]]> https://www.cricketwinner.com/cricket-news/ignored-for-years-sivaramakrishnan-retires-from-bcci-commentary-over-color-discrimination/ https://www.cricketwinner.com/cricket-news/ignored-for-years-sivaramakrishnan-retires-from-bcci-commentary-over-color-discrimination/ Fri, 20 Mar 2026 17:02:02 GMT

Former India spinner Laxman Sivaramakrishnan has decided to step away from BCCI commentary, surprising many in the cricketing world. The 60-year-old shared the news on social media, where his statement quickly gained attention. Known for speaking openly, he made it clear that this decision was not sudden but came after long-standing frustration.

Taking to X, he wrote, "I am retiring from commentary for BCCI." His post led to many questions from fans, asking why he chose to step away now. Sivaramakrishnan responded by mentioning his contribution over the years despite being a part of the commentary panel for a long time.

He also hinted at the fact that there was more behind his decision and that the real story was yet to come out. His strong words show that he felt he was not recognized and respected during his time with BCCI commentary.

Why Sivaramakrishnan walked away from BCCI commentary

Explaining his reason, he wrote, "If I have not been used for TOSSES and PRESENTATION for 23 years and new comers come in do pitch report Tosses Presentation even when Shastri was coaching, what do you think could be the reason." This clearly shows his disappointment about not being given major on-screen roles.

See Also: Watch: MS Dhoni seen limping heavily after getting injured in CSK practice session ahead of IPL 2026

He further added, “This retirement is only the beginning of a story when told, general public ,cricket fans and everyone will be utterly Shocked. I am very happy that people who hate me are delighted. But those who thought I was at least decent. Thanks. BCCI will be left with disbelief.” His comments suggest that there may be deeper issues behind his exit.

Sivaramakrishnan’s Career Highlights

Laxman Sivaramakrishnan was a talented leg-spinner who gained fame during India’s 1985 World Championship victory. His performances at a young age had made him one of the promising players of his time and had earned him recognition at the international stage.

He played nine Test matches and picked up 26 wickets. In 16 ODIs, he claimed 15 wickets. Even though his cricketing career lasted a short time, he remained associated with cricket through domestic cricket matches and later went on to have a long commentary career, becoming a familiar voice for cricket fans over the years.

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<![CDATA[NSW-W vs QUN-W Today Match Prediction – WNCL 2025-26, Final Who Will Win?]]> https://www.cricketwinner.com/match-predictions/nsw-w-vs-qun-w-today-match-prediction-wncl-2025-26-final-who-will-win/ https://www.cricketwinner.com/match-predictions/nsw-w-vs-qun-w-today-match-prediction-wncl-2025-26-final-who-will-win/ Fri, 20 Mar 2026 16:44:23 GMT

New South Wales Women will face Queensland Fire Women in the final of the WNCL 2025-26 on March 21 at Cricket Central, Sydney. New South Wales Women won their previous match by 63 runs against SA Scorpions Women and finished the league stage as table toppers. 

On the other hand, Queensland Fire Women also won their previous match by nine wickets against Victoria Women, successfully chasing a target of 105 runs in just 14.5 overs. They finished the league stage in second position.

Also Read: KSO vs ING Today Match Prediction – Legends League Cricket 2026, 10th Match Who Will Win?

NSW-W vs QUN-W Match Details

  • Match: New South Wales Women vs Queensland Fire Women, Final 

  • Date: 21st March 2026

  • Time: 4:30 AM IST

  • Venue: Cricket Central, Sydney 

  • Live Streaming: Fancode 

NSW-W vs QUN-W Weather Report

Temperature

21°C

Rain Possibility

50%

Average 1st innings Score

220

Best Suited For

Pacer (60%)

Pitch Report - Central Ground 

It is a batting-friendly wicket, with teams batting first crossing the 270-run mark in four out of the six matches played here. There is plenty of help for bowlers too. As the game progresses, the wicket will become slower, making it harder to score runs.

  • Win Batting First: 85%

  • Win Bowling First: 15%

Average Scores

  • Average 1st Innings: 225

  • Average 2nd Innings: 200


NSW-W vs QUN-W Recent Form

Team

Last 5 Matches

NSW-W

W, L, W, W, W

QUN-W

W, W, L, L, L

NSW-W vs QUN-W Head-to-Head Record 

  • NSW-W Wins - 6

  • QUN-W Wins - 3

Top Batters to Watch – NSW-W vs QUN-W

  • Katie Mack (NSW-W): 632 runs in this tournament 

  • Tahlia Wilson (NSW-W): 454 runs in this tournament 

  • Georgia Redmayne (QUN-W): 453 runs in this tournament 

Top Bowlers to Watch – NSW-W vs QUN-W

  • Lauren Cheatle (NSW-W): 26 wickets in this tournament 

  • Sianna Ginger (QUN-W): 19 wickets in this tournament 

  • Maitlan Brown (NSW-W): 19 wickets in this tournament 

NSW-W vs QUN-W Today Match Prediction Scenarios

Scenario 1: If QUN-W bats first

  • Powerplay Score: 45–50

  • Predicted Total: 205–220

  • Match Result: NSW-W to win

Scenario 2: If NSW-W bats first

  • Powerplay Score: 45–55

  • Predicted Total: 255–270

  • Match Result: NSW-W to win

Who Will Hit the Most Sixes?

Team

Players

NSW-W

Katie Mack, Anerika Learoyd

QUN-W

Jess Jonassen, Grace Harris

Who Will Hit the Most Fours?

Team

Players

NSW-W

Tahlia Wilson, Georgia Adams 

QUN-W

Georgia Redmayne, Charli Knott 

NSW-W vs QUN-W Predicted Playing XIs

New South Wales Women 

Tahlia Wilson (wk), Katie Mack, Anerika Learoyd, Claire Moore, Georgia Adams, Matilan Brown, Lucy Finn, Sarah Coyte, Lauren Cheatle (c), Frankie Nicklin, Samantha Bates.

Queensland Fire Women 

Georgia Redmayne (c & wk), Jess Jonassen, Charli Knott, Grace Harris, Lauren Winfield-Hill, Sianna Ginger, Lucinda Bourke, Annie O'Neil, Nicola Hancock, Ruby Strange, Grace Parsons.

Why New South Wales Women is the favourite

  • Win the 11 matches in this tournament 

  • Good pace attack

  • Strong middle-order 

NSW-W vs QUN-W Today Match Prediction – Who Will Win Today?

Based on current form, team balance, and superior batting strength, New South Wales Women are the favourites to win this WNCL 2025-26 match. Tahlia Wilson, Katie Mack and Georgia Adams are expected to be the key performers.

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<![CDATA[International Masters League season 2 confirmed]]> https://www.cricketwinner.com/cricket-news/international-masters-league-season-2-confirmed/ https://www.cricketwinner.com/cricket-news/international-masters-league-season-2-confirmed/ Fri, 20 Mar 2026 16:20:51 GMT

The International Masters League (IML) is set to return for its second season. It is going to be another blockbuster with the comeback of legends on the cricket field. 

The second season of the International Masters League will run between October 24 and November 24, 2026. Mumbai, Vadodara, and Vizag will host this T20 competition.

Just like its first season in early 2025, the IML's second season is likely to run with six teams, which will be India Masters, Australia Masters, South Africa Masters, West Indies Masters, England Masters, and Sri Lanka Masters. The fixture details of the second season will be released soon. 

Legendary Indian cricketer Sunil Gavaskar is the league commissioner of the IML. He has promised a more impressive cricketing experience from the legends in the second season. 

Gavaskar said, “Season 1 of the IML reaffirmed that the magic of cricket’s greatest icons continues to resonate deeply with fans. As we return for Season 2, the focus is on elevating that experience, with greater competition, more unforgettable moments, and the same enduring passion for the game. Fans can look forward to seeing their heroes back in action, and I am confident it will be another truly memorable edition of the tournament.”

See Also: MS Dhoni seen limping heavily after getting injured in CSK practice session ahead of IPL 2026

Who won International Masters League season 1?

Navi Mumbai, Vadodara, and Raipur hosted a total of 18 matches in the first season of the IML, which India Masters won after beating West Indies Masters by six wickets in the Final of the tournament. 

Legends like Sachin Tendulkar, Brian Lara, Shane Watson, Yuvraj Singh, Chris Gayle, and Kumar Sangakkara served for their respective nations in the first season of the tournament. 

The first season was a huge success, with 246 million viewers experiencing that season across television and OTT platforms. 

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<![CDATA[Watch: MS Dhoni seen limping heavily after getting injured in CSK practice session ahead of IPL 2026]]> https://www.cricketwinner.com/cricket-news/watch-ms-dhoni-seen-limping-heavily-after-getting-injured-in-csk-practice-session-ahead-of-ipl-2026/ https://www.cricketwinner.com/cricket-news/watch-ms-dhoni-seen-limping-heavily-after-getting-injured-in-csk-practice-session-ahead-of-ipl-2026/ Fri, 20 Mar 2026 16:10:32 GMT

With IPL 2026 just around the corner, all eyes are on MS Dhoni and his fitness. Though the 44-year-old legend has confirmed that he will be playing the entire tournament, recent training sessions have left fans worrying. He has been seen in discomfort during training, and it is believed that this is going to be his last season in the IPL.

A viral video from the MA Chidambaram Stadium showed Dhoni struggling while walking after a practice session. He appeared to be favoring his left knee, the same knee that required surgery after the 2023 season. The clip quickly spread online, worrying fans who are eager to see him play one more full season.

It has been confirmed that MS Dhoni's workload will be managed during the tournament. Though he is going to be playing, there is a possibility that he might be missing a few games away from home to ensure that he plays all the home games in Chennai.
Legendary wicketkeeper-batter has also started using a light bat and has started adjusting his game according to his fitness and age.

MS Dhoni’s IPL career highlights and current role

MS Dhoni is one of the most successful players in the history of the Indian Premier League. He holds five titles and has scored more than 5,000 runs in the tournament. His role in the team has evolved over the years. He is a finisher and comes in late in the match and scores quick runs. Even in the 2025 season, he played crucial knocks in the team and remained not out in several matches.

Watch the video here

See Also: Watch: MS Dhoni and Sanju Samson's candid chat during CSK training ahead of IPL 2026

His overall record in the tournament is impressive. He has played 278 matches and scored over 5,439 runs. His strike rate is over 137. Captain cool achieved a major milestone in the tournament by becoming the first wicketkeeper to take 150 catches in IPL history. He is still sharp behind the stumps and is contributing to the team in crucial matches.

Will It Be the Last Season for MS Dhoni in IPL?

Although former CSK captain has confirmed his availability for IPL 2026, however his future remains uncertain due to his ongoing fitness struggles. Experts like Robin Uthappa also believe that this will be his last season as a player. The 44-year-old has been dealing with knee problems since 2023, and a recent viral video from March 2026 showed him limping after a long practice session at Chepauk. That has raised questions as to if he can survive another full season.

CSK CEO Kasi Viswanathan has unequivocally stated, "He will play," but the franchise is also making arrangements for a future without Dhoni. The arrival of Sanju Samson and investments in young players like Kartik Sharma and Prashant Veer show that CSK is planning for the future. Dhoni may take on a more limited role, possibly batting lower down the order or playing as an Impact Player, while also guiding the next generation. This means that the legendary captain could make IPL 2026 a memorable farewell season.

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<![CDATA[Watch: Hardik Pandya ignores fan during Ferrari outing goes viral ahead of IPL 2026]]> https://www.cricketwinner.com/cricket-news/hardik-pandya-ignores-fan-during-ferrari-outing-goes-viral-ahead-of-ipl-2026/ https://www.cricketwinner.com/cricket-news/hardik-pandya-ignores-fan-during-ferrari-outing-goes-viral-ahead-of-ipl-2026/ Fri, 20 Mar 2026 15:13:46 GMT

Ahead of the IPL 2026, Mumbai Indians captain Hardik Pandya is once again back in the news. Recently, the all-rounder was seen driving his new Ferrari on the streets of the city. This immediately caught the attention of the fans passing by. The incident soon became a matter of discussion and debate due to the all-rounder's interaction with a fan.

In a viral video, A fan spotted him and kept shouting, "Hardik sir, Hardik sir 1 pictures" near the car door, but Hardik did not respond or even look at him. The video of the incident immediately started going around social media, creating a huge debate among the fans.

Fans defended Hardik Pandya by stating that he has been busy and not in the mood. Others compared it to Rohit Sharma, as he is always available and takes pictures with fans whenever possible. This comparison added more fuel to the fire and the incident is one of the early talking points of IPL 2026.

Hardik Pandya’s IPL Journey and Career Highlights

Hardik Pandya has played a total of 152 matches in his IPL career till the 2025 . He has already become a top all-rounder for Mumbai Indians and Gujarat Titans. He is currently the captain of the Mi and is still one of the impactful players in the tournament.

Watch the video here

See Also: Delhi Capitals suffer massive blow as legendary pacer misses start of Indian Premier League 2026

He has accumulated 2,749 runs and taken 78 wickets, and his strike rate is impressive, at 146.93. One of his greatest achievements is when he led his team, Gujarat Titans, to win the tournament in 2022, as it was his team’s first season. In 2025, he took his career’s best bowling figures of 5/36 against Lucknow.

Mumbai Indians Gear Up for IPL 2026 Campaign

In the 2025 season, Mumbai Indians made a great comeback, as they were at the bottom of the table but managed to finish fourth, winning 8 matches and losing 6. Under Hardik Pandya’s leadership, Mumbai Indians entered the playoffs, won the Eliminator against Gujarat Titans, but lost to Punjab Kings in Qualifier 2. Suryakumar Yadav was his team’s highest run-scorer, as he accumulated 717 runs, and Trent Boult took 22 wickets for his team.

Looking ahead to IPL 2026, Mumbai Indians will begin their campaign at Wankhede Stadium against Kolkata Knight Riders on March 29. The first phase of the schedule includes four matches till April 12, including away matches against Delhi Capitals and Rajasthan Royals, and then a big home match against RCB.

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<![CDATA[Watch: MS Dhoni and Sanju Samson's candid chat during CSK training ahead of IPL 2026]]> https://www.cricketwinner.com/cricket-news/ms-dhoni-and-sanju-samson-s-candid-chat-during-csk-training-ahead-of-ipl-2026/ https://www.cricketwinner.com/cricket-news/ms-dhoni-and-sanju-samson-s-candid-chat-during-csk-training-ahead-of-ipl-2026/ Fri, 20 Mar 2026 14:29:09 GMT

Chennai Super Kings (CSK) veteran MS Dhoni was seen having a friendly chat with Sanju Samson during a training session ahead of IPL 2026. The 19th season of the tournament will begin on March 28, and teams have already started preparations. On Friday, March 20, CSK shared a video on social media showing the two players talking casually during practice.

In the video, Sanju Samson is seen speaking about how special this moment is for him. He said, "After that, we used to meet at the IPL and there used to be a huge crowd in front of the stadium. There were 5-10 people here and 5-10 people there. I used to think that this is not enough. I have to see it alone. I had such a desire. Destiny has got me to come and play with him in one dressing room. Like that couple of months, I am very very excited. Definitely very genuinely excited to meet him and interact with him. Sit, have breakfast with him, practice with him, play match with him, move out. Just thinking about it makes me very happy."

This is even more special as Samson has now signed for CSK ahead of IPL 2026. Having played for more than a decade for Rajasthan Royals, this is a new beginning for him in Chennai. The trade-off for this signing saw Rajasthan Royals sign Sam Curran and Ravindra Jadeja in return.

Sanju Samson begins new journey with Chennai Super Kings

Sanju Samson is set to join the IPL 2026 after a great run for the Indian team. He played a pivotal role in India’s T20 World Cup 2026 triumph and was awarded the Player of the Tournament. His experience and form makes him a crucial inclusion in the CSK squad this year.

Watch the video here

See Also: Watch: Fan recreated Sanju Samon's special celebration in his bungee-jumping session ahead of IPL 2026

This will be Samson’s first season with CSK after playing 11 seasons for Rajasthan Royals. He has played 176 IPL matches and scored 4,704 runs at an average of 30.75 and a strike rate of 139.05. His record includes 26 fifties and three centuries, with a highest score of 119.

CSK gear up for IPL 2026 with strong squad and fixtures

Chennai Super Kings prepare for IPL 2026 with a powerful and more balanced lineup after a disappointing 2025. They have included Sanju Samson to add firepower to their batting, in addition to players such as Ruturaj Gaikwad, Shivam Dube, and MS Dhoni. CSK will begin their tournament against Rajasthan Royals on March 30 at Guwahati, followed by matches against Punjab Kings, Royal Challengers Bengaluru, and Delhi Capitals.

Ruturaj Gaikwad will be the skipper of CSK in IPL 2026 and MS Dhoni will play a significant role as a senior player. Captain cool has scored 5439 runs for his team in 278 matches, and his average is 39.23, with strike rate of 137.45. His experience will help guide the team throughout the season. Chennai Super Kings will look to bounce back and fight hard for yet another IPL title, with better planning and new players in the line-up. 

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<![CDATA[Fans react as Peshawar Zalmi’s PSL 2026 jersey sparks ‘electric shock’ meme fest]]> https://www.cricketwinner.com/cricket-news/fans-react-as-peshawar-zalmi-s-psl-2026-jersey-sparks-electric-shock-meme-fest/ https://www.cricketwinner.com/cricket-news/fans-react-as-peshawar-zalmi-s-psl-2026-jersey-sparks-electric-shock-meme-fest/ Fri, 20 Mar 2026 13:49:10 GMT

The atmosphere for the Indian Premier League 2026 is building up in India, and everyone is eagerly awaiting the season, which starts on March 28. However, before this, the Pakistan Super League will kick off in the neighboring country, Pakistan, starting on March 26. Just like last time, the schedules of both leagues are once again clashing with each other. Because of this, fans from both countries are trying to belittle the league taking place in the other country on social media over one issue or another.

Before the start of the new season, teams are also launching their jerseys, and something similar has been done by Peshawar Zalmi in the PSL. The team led by Babar Azam has launched three jerseys ahead of the upcoming season, which are the home, away, and training kits. All three jerseys are generating a lot of discussion, but the home jersey is grabbing the headlines.

See Also: Steve Smith and Glenn Maxwell may withdraw from PSL 2026 following serious security concerns: Report

Why Peshawar Zalmi’s new jersey is going viral?

Peshawar Zalmis new home jersey for the upcoming Pakistan Super League season is turning heads with its bold and unusual look. The jersey features a bright yellow base with eye-catching electric shock graphics running across it, giving it a lively, futuristic vibe. These patterns look like pulses of electricity, adding a sense of movement and energy, almost as if the player is powered up for speed and strength.

Fans have had mixed reactions to this bold design. Some enjoy the creativity, while others think it’s a bit much. The lightning theme has even inspired jokes about players suddenly sprinting like Usain Bolt during matches. No matter what people think, the jersey definitely stands out and shows Zalmi’s willingness to try new looks, making it one of the most talked-about kits before the new PSL season.

Best fan reactions to the ‘electric shock’ design

The Peshawar Zalmi home jersey has received many reactions from fans on X (formerly Twitter). Let's take a look at some of them:

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<![CDATA[Delhi Capitals suffer massive blow as legendary pacer misses start of Indian Premier League 2026]]> https://www.cricketwinner.com/cricket-news/delhi-capitals-starc-misses-ipl-2026-start/ https://www.cricketwinner.com/cricket-news/delhi-capitals-starc-misses-ipl-2026-start/ Fri, 20 Mar 2026 13:37:51 GMT

Star Australian pacer Mitchell Starc will miss the start of IPL 2026. He is the latest Australian player to sit out the opening part of the tournament.

Cricket Australia is taking a careful approach to manage its fast bowlers before a busy international schedule. Delhi Capitals will not have Starc for the first few games, according to cricket.com.au.

The reason is not injury. Cricket Australia is giving him a break to manage his workload. Starc is a senior player, and keeping his body in good condition is important. The Aussie absence at the start of IPL 2026 will affect Delhi Capitals’ plans for the opening matches.

Also read -Mitchell Starc Named ICC Men's Player Of The Month For December 2025

Mitchell Starc to Miss Start of IPL 2026

Mitchell Starc is among Australia’s senior pacers being rested for the early part of IPL 2026. His availability will depend on how he progresses in return-to-play protocols over the coming weeks, according to cricket.com.au.

The 36-year-old’s workload has been a major factor. He played all five Ashes Tests and also featured in the later stages of the Big Bash League. While he stepped away from T20 Internationals last year, he is still important for Australia in longer formats. With a packed international schedule ahead, including tours to South Africa, India, and England, and the ODI World Cup 2027, Cricket Australia is taking a cautious approach.

Impact on Delhi Capitals

Starc was picked by Delhi Capitals for INR 11.75 crore, and his absence will leave a gap in their pace attack at the start. Pat Cummins and Josh Hazlewood are also set to miss the opening phase under the same workload plan, while Nathan Ellis is out due to a hamstring injury.

The Delhi Capitals started their 2025 season well, winning their first two games, but then their form dropped. Without Mitchell Starc at the start of the season, it will be harder for the Capitals to set the right pace early on. They finished fifth in 2025 and missed the playoffs.

This season, the team has a good mix of Indian and overseas players. KL Rahul may open the batting, while players like Prithvi Shaw, Ben Duckett, and Pathum Nissanka give them strong options at the top order. The Capitals are still looking for their first IPL trophy. They will start their 2026 campaign against Lucknow Super Giants on April 1 and will hope for a winning start.

Delhi Capitals Full squad for IPL 2026

Axar Patel(c), KL Rahul, Abishek Porel, Tristan Stubbs, Karun Nair, Sameer Rizvi, Ashutosh Sharma, Vipraj Nigam, Madhav Tiwari, Tripurana Vijay, Ajay Mandal, Kuldeep Yadav, Mitchell Starc, T Natarajan, Mukesh Kumar, Dushmantha Chameera, Nitish Rana, David Miller, Ben Duckett, Auqib Nabi Dar, Pathum Nissanka, Lungi Ngidi, Sahil Parakh, Prithvi Shaw, Kyle Jamieson

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