The Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI) paid a heartfelt tribute to former India cricketer C.D. Gopinath after his passing, remembering him as one of the early players who helped build Indian cricket. His contribution to the game continues to be respected and valued by the cricket community.

C.D. Gopinath, India’s oldest living Test cricketer, passed away at the age of 96 in Chennai on Thursday. He was part of India’s first Test-winning team and held a special place in the history of the sport. He is survived by his wife, children, and grandchildren. He was also the second-oldest cricketer in the world after Australia’s Neil Harvey.

Born in Chennai, then known as Madras, on March 1, 1930, Gopinath represented a simple and classic style of cricket. A right-handed batter, he made his mark through strong performances in domestic cricket for Madras. His steady and consistent play helped him earn a place in the Indian national team, making his journey an important part of India’s cricket history.

BCCI mourns the passing of former India cricketer C.D. Gopinath

Read more 🔽https://t.co/aMsCs4l9ZW

— BCCI (@BCCI) April 9, 2026

Who was C.D. Gopinath? A look at his cricketing journey

C.D. Gopinath was one of the early pillars of Indian cricket and a member of the country’s historic first-ever Test-winning team. Born on March 1, 1930, in Chennai (then Madras), he represented a classic and disciplined style of batting. At a time when India was still finding its place in international cricket, Gopinath’s steady performances and calm approach helped strengthen the team’s foundation. His contribution during the early years remains an important part of India’s cricketing history.

Gopinath represented India in eight Test matches between 1951 and 1960, scoring 242 runs with one half-century. He made an immediate impact on his debut during the 1951–52 series against England at the Brabourne Stadium, where he scored 50 not out and 42. He was also part of the Indian team that secured its first-ever Test victory in 1952 in Chennai, a landmark moment in the sport’s history. In that match, he contributed 35 important runs and took a crucial catch to dismiss Brian Statham off the bowling of Vinoo Mankad, who delivered a match-winning performance with 12 wickets. Gopinath played his final Test match against Australia at Eden Gardens in 1960.

At the domestic level, Gopinath was a leading figure in Madras cricket. He scored 4,259 runs in 83 first-class matches at an average of 42, including nine centuries. One of his most memorable innings was a brilliant 175 for South Zone against New Zealand, where he faced strong players like Bert Sutcliffe, John Reid, John Alabaster, and Zinzan Harris. Despite the match ending in a loss, his innings was widely appreciated. He later recalled how players like Reid and Sutcliffe met him after the match for a friendly conversation, reflecting the spirit of cricket during that era. Gopinath also played a key role in helping Madras win its first Ranji Trophy title in 1954–55, scoring a century in the final.

After retiring from playing, Gopinath continued to serve Indian cricket with dedication. He worked as a national selector and later became the chairman of selectors, playing a role in shaping future teams. He also served as the manager of the Indian team during the 1979 tour of England. Even in his later years, he remained closely connected to the game, following its growth and evolution. He supported the Chennai Super Kings in the Indian Premier League and admired the leadership and calm nature of MS Dhoni. His lifelong association with cricket, both on and off the field, reflects his deep passion and lasting impact on the sport.

See also -BCCI to give new role to Hardik Pandya for India ahead of ODI World Cup 2027

BCCI honours his contribution to Indian cricket legacy

The Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI) on Thursday expressed deep sadness over the passing of former India cricketer C. D. Gopinath in Chennai. The board paid tribute to his important role in Indian cricket and remembered his long service to the game.

BCCI President Mithun Manhas said, “Mr C.D. Gopinath represented a time when Indian cricket was growing at the international level. He not only played for India but also helped Madras cricket in its early success. He continued to serve the game as chairman of the selection committee and as team manager, which showed his strong commitment to cricket. We are saddened by his passing and we send our condolences to his family and loved ones.”

BCCI Honorary Secretary Devajit Saikia said, “Mr C.D. Gopinath was part of a generation that helped build Indian cricket in its early years. Being part of India’s first Test victory is something that will always be remembered. He also stayed connected with the game after his playing days. The BCCI sends its heartfelt condolences to his family and loved ones.”

The IPL 2026 season has started with exciting matches. The BCCI has added new strict rules for teams. These rules control how players move during matches. All teams were recently informed. The aim is to make match days more organized, smooth, and professional for everyone involved in the tournament.

The biggest change is about players who are not part of the 16-member match squad. These players will no longer be allowed to enter the field during the game. Earlier, such players could carry drinks, bats, or messages to teammates. But now, only selected players will be allowed to do these tasks.

This step is part of BCCI’s plan to tighten rules in IPL 2026. There have already been changes related to practice sessions, staff movement, and access to certain areas. These new rules will reduce unnecessary movement near the ground. It will also make the match environment more controlled.

New IPL rules explained for 2026 season

The first rule is that only the 16 players named in the team sheet can take part in match-related duties. This includes the playing XI and the impact players. Any player outside this list cannot enter the field at any time during the match. They are not allowed to carry drinks, bats, or messages to players.

The second rule is about movement near the boundary line. Only five players wearing training bibs are allowed to stay active around the boundary rope. These five can be from the 16 players or from the rest of the squad. However, the number cannot go beyond five at any moment during the game.

🚨 BIG RULES OF BCCI FOR IPL 🚨 (Cricbuzz).

- Benched players are not allowed to move around the ground during a game.

- Extra players outside the designated 16 named in the tram sheet cannot enter the field with drinks, bats or to deliver messages.

- No more than 5 players… pic.twitter.com/yQ03pGL79U

— Tanuj (@ImTanujSingh) April 8, 2026

See Also: IPL 2026: Massive honour awaits Suryakumar Yadav ahead of MI vs RCB clash

The third rule is connected to the official IPL playing conditions. Clause 11.5.2 says drinks can only be given with umpire permission and without wasting time. Clause 24.1.4 says players who are not playing must wear a training bib if they are near the field. Also, other squad members are not allowed to move between the boundary line and LED boards.

These changes are also being linked to a recent controversial moment in IPL 2026. During the match between Lucknow Super Giants and Sunrisers Hyderabad, Avesh Khan was seen hitting the ball from outside the boundary before it crossed the rope. Although no penalty was given at that time, the incident created a lot of discussion. It is now being speculated that such moments may have influenced the BCCI to bring stricter rules to avoid any outside interference in future matches.

Team India can tour Bangladesh for a white-ball series in August this year as the Bangladesh Cricket Board (BCB) has wished to improve their relation with India. According to the latest reports, the Men in Blue can play 3 T20Is and 3 ODIs against the Tiger brigade in 2026.

According to a report published by Dainik Jagran, BCB is in communication with the Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI) regarding a bilateral series. The report further mentioned that BCB has written to them, referring to the historically strong relations between the two countries.

BCB is in touch with BCCI

The letter also includes a request regarding the Indian team’s tour of Bangladesh. Last year, India was scheduled to play three ODIs and three T20 matches in Bangladesh, but the BCCI postponed the tour to September this year due to a busy schedule.

The political relationship between India and Bangladesh worsened before the formation of the new government. Before the general election, when Bangladesh was under the rule of an interim government, BCB refused to send their cricket team to India for the T20 World Cup, citing safety and security concerns for their players.  

Dispute between India and Bangladesh before the T20 World Cup 2026

The cricket governing board of Bangladesh requested the Jay Shah-led International Cricket Council (ICC) to shift their matches outside India. With an ultimatum, the council asked BCB to rethink its stance. As the board remained firm in their decision, ICC ruled them out of the T20 World Cup and included Scotland as a replacement. BCB went against playing on Indian soil after the snub of Mustafizur Rahman from the Indian Premier League 2026 (IPL 2026).

Read More: BCCI to give new role to Hardik Pandya for India ahead of ODI World Cup 2027

Things started to change as soon as the people of Bangladesh voted for Tarique Rahman as their Prime Minister. Things started to reshape. Under the new government, BCB has been putting in efforts to strengthen its relationship with India.

After the political dispute, India’s tour to Bangladesh became uncertain. Now, as BCB is in communication with BCCI again, the bilateral series can be possible with new hopes.

🚨 BIG UPDATE ON INDIA'S TOUR OF BANGLADESH 🚨

- Tean India may tour Bangladesh in August in this year. In this tour Team India will play 3 T20Is and 3 ODI match series. (Abhishek Tripathi). pic.twitter.com/Pvis5OuGpi

— Tanuj (@ImTanujSingh) April 4, 2026

Bangladesh to host Asia Cup next year

Next year, Bangladesh is scheduled to host the Asia Cup. Ahead of the multi-format tournament, they will definitely try to improve their bond with the neighboring nation. If India refused to send their cricket team to Bangladesh, then the organizers would have to think differently, even about a possible hybrid model.  

Because of the tension between India and Pakistan, the ICC tournaments, like the T20 World Cup 2026, were held in a hybrid model, which resulted in the India vs Pakistan match being held in a neutral venue, which was Sri Lanka. For the same political reason, last year’s Asia Cup was held in Dubai. 

If India refuses to travel to Bangladesh for the Asia Cup 2027, then it will be a major blow for them. In this scenario, Bangladesh should try to maintain a close relationship with India. Ahead of the vital competition, if the BCCI agrees to tour Bangladesh, then it can be considered as a sign of an improving relationship between these two nations.  

Punjab Kings (PBKS) registered a narrow victory in their first match of the ongoing IPL 2026 tournament against the Gujarat Titans (GT) on March 31 at the PCA New Cricket Stadium in Tira. The win proved costly for the team, as their skipper, Shreyas Iyer, will have to pay ₹12 lakh to the Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI) as his team is accused of maintaining a slow overrate in this match. 

BCCI has strict rules on maintaining the over rates to ensure every match is on time. The governing body of the league has issued an official statement, confirming the hefty fine on the PBKS leader.

PBKS captain Shreyas Iyer will have to pay a hefty fine to the BCCI

On the morning of April 1, 2026, it was learnt that BCCI has sanctioned a fine of ₹12 lakh against Shreyas Iyer as his side was found guilty of maintaining a slow over rate during their Indian Premier League 2026 fixture against the Gujarat Titans on Tuesday.

“Punjab Kings Captain Shreyas Iyer has been fined after his team maintained a slow over-rate during Match No. 4 of the TATA Indian Premier League 2026 against Gujarat Titans at the New International Cricket Stadium, New Chandigarh,” the governing body of IPL stated officially.

The statement further mentioned that the amount of the penalty is a result of a minimum over-rate offence under Article 2.22 of the IPL’s Code of Conduct.

“As this was his team’s first offence of the season under Article 2.22 of the IPL’s Code of Conduct, which pertains to minimum over-rate offences, Iyer was fined ₹12 lakh,” the statement further reads.

Read More: Major update arrives, MS Dhoni set to play IPL 2026 match on this date

Will BCCI serve a ban to Iyer?

Repetition of the same offence will result in heavier fines. However, unlike the previous season, there will be no threat of getting banned for violating the same rule, as BCCI has made some major rule changes ahead of the 2026 Indian Premier League season. 

As per media reports, since the beginning of the 2025 season, the board has changed the guidelines and started to give demerit points in response to offences, which is in line with the ICC's code of conduct. In the past, Rishabh Pant and Hardik Pandya served suspensions for maintaining slow over rates in multiple matches. This year, this threat is no longer on the captains of the league.

Cooper Connolly saved the match for the Punjab Kings

Last night, PBKS managed to get a very narrow victory against GT. Australian all-rounder Cooper Connolly remained firm on the track to ensure the win. Connolly is mostly known for his spin-bowling abilities, and he can also add value with the bat. Punjab took a bet on sending Connolly to open the innings.

In his debut IPL match, the 22-year-old Aussie registered an unbeaten 72-run innings against 44 balls to make sure the team started the campaign on a positive note despite hiccups while chasing a target of 163. PBKS lost 7 wickets in the run chase, with four batters dismissed for single-digit runs each.

Captain Shreyas Iyer, who had an injury scare during the match, got only 18 off 11. But in the end, it was the runners-up of the IPL 2025 season who were able to hold their nerves and secured a crucial win. Connolly, the player of the match, hit the winning runs for the team.  

The Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI) has announced the full schedule for India’s 2026-27 home season. The Indian team will play 22 matches across 17 venues during this period. The season will begin in September with a white-ball series against West Indies. This marks the start of a packed international calendar at home.

India will also tour New Zealand before returning home for more matches. The home season will continue with series against Sri Lanka and Zimbabwe. These matches will be played in different cities across the country. The schedule has been planned to give fans cricket action in multiple venues.

The West Indies tour will include three ODIs and five T20Is. Matches will be played in cities like Trivandrum, Guwahati, Lucknow, and Bengaluru. And then India will host Sri Lanka in December for a further white-ball series. It includes three ODIs, as well as three T20Is. 

In January 2027, Zimbabwe will tour India for a short ODI series. Soon after, the much-awaited Border-Gavaskar Trophy against Australia will begin. This five-match Test series will run from January 21 to March 3. It will be the highlight of the entire home season.

India’s 2026-27 full home fixtures

The complete schedule includes matches against the West Indies, Sri Lanka, Zimbabwe and Australia. It features a mix of ODIs, T20Is and Test matches across multiple venues. The Border-Gavaskar Trophy will be the biggest attraction of the season. Below is the full list of fixtures announced by the BCCI.

West Indies tour of India

🚨 THE HOME SEASON FIXTURES OF TEAM INDIA 🚨 pic.twitter.com/HlKndV2KRa

— Tanuj (@ImTanujSingh) March 26, 2026

See Also: India vs Australia five-match Test series Border-Gavaskar Trophy schedule revealed

Sri Lanka tour of India

Zimbabwe tour of India

See Also: Why does Ajit Agarkar seek extension as BCCI chief selector until 2027 World Cup?

Australia tour of India (Border-Gavaskar Trophy)

With just two days left for the start of IPL 2026, excitement among fans is very high. The tournament will begin on March 28, with defending champions Royal Challengers Bengaluru facing Sunrisers Hyderabad at the M. Chinnaswamy Stadium in Bengaluru.

The Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI) has confirmed that there will be no opening ceremony at the venue this year. The decision was announced by BCCI secretary Devajit Saikia ahead of the first match.

The board has taken this step to show respect and support for the 11 victims of the stampede tragedy in Bengaluru on June 4 last year, which happened during RCB’s first IPL title celebrations. As a result, the IPL 2026 season will begin without the usual opening ceremony.

🚨 NO OPENING CEREMONY IN IPL 2026 🚨

- BCCI Secratary has confirmed that there won't be any opening ceremony at Chinnaswamy stadium as mark of respect for the tragedy on June 4th. [Gaurav Gupta/TOI]

They are planning to conduct a grand closing ceremony on May 31st pic.twitter.com/WOerVwnFAH

— Johns. (@CricCrazyJohns) March 26, 2026

Also read -IPL 2026: All 10 captains assemble in Mumbai ahead of new season

What BCCI said about IPL 2026 opening ceremony plans

In an interview with The Times of India, BCCI secretary Devajit Saikia confirmed that there will be no cultural or entertainment program before the opening match as a mark of respect for those who lost their lives.

As the first match gets closer, people have started talking about the usual pre-match celebrations. In past years, IPL opening ceremonies were known for big performances and famous celebrities.

However, this year, there is no such event planned. Reports say that the BCCI and the IPL Governing Council thought carefully before making this decision for the season opener in Bengaluru.

“Because of last year’s tragic incident on June 4, there will be no formal function on the opening day of IPL 2026 in Bengaluru. The BCCI is not organizing any cultural or entertainment show as a mark of respect for those who lost their lives,” Devajit Saikia told The Times of India.

Changes expected in pre-match celebrations this season

While the opening ceremony has been cancelled, fans can still look forward to a major celebration at the end of the season. The BCCI is planning a grand closing ceremony on May 31, the day of the IPL 2026 final.

This approach helps the league keep its festive spirit while also showing responsibility and respect. BCCI secretary Devajit Saikia confirmed, “A grand entertainment function is being planned for the final day of the tournament.”

Last year, the IPL started with a grand event at Eden Gardens in Kolkata. It included performances by Shah Rukh Khan, singers Shreya Ghoshal and Karan Aujla, and a dance performance by actress Disha Patani.

Fans React to BCCI’s Latest Update

Fans have shared mixed reactions after the BCCI announced that there will be no opening ceremony for IPL 2026. While many supported the decision and appreciated the board for showing respect and sensitivity, others said they will miss the usual grand performances and festive start of the tournament.

Some fans said, “Great decision, showing support for those who lost their lives.” Others commented, “Biggest heartbreak for IPL fans. Without an opening ceremony, it doesn’t feel like IPL.” Many fans are now waiting to see how the season begins without the usual celebrations.

Read some of the comments below:

No opening ceremony… but a “grand closing ceremony” 😭

Bhai ye konsa logic hai?
Start pe silence, end pe full concert 💀

— SahilG (@GSahil8733) March 26, 2026

Instead of doing all this drama, they should make sure that, proper rules and regulations are set in proper place so that these things doesn't happen in future

— The Common Guy (@DCommonGuy) March 26, 2026

Great decision showing solidarity with those who lost their lives.🙏 pic.twitter.com/Re5cTtPGBo

— Vaibhav Agrawal (@VaibhavAgr34331) March 26, 2026

Biggest heartbreak for IPL fans 😭💔. Without opening ceremony it doesn't feel like IPL.

— Hitman (@Vijay456V60026) March 26, 2026

That’s the right decision.

Some things are bigger than cricket, and respect matters more than spectacle.

— Sai Shiva | Markets (@Saishiv17) March 26, 2026

Cancelling the opening ceremony at M. Chinnaswamy Stadium as a mark of respect for the June 4 tragedy shows that the league is prioritizing sensitivity over spectacle. At the same time, planning a grand closing ceremony on May 31 balances that sentiment with celebration at the…

— Sports Campus (@Raunakk_14) March 26, 2026

😭😭😭 pic.twitter.com/OnLVl4J73q

— ViratKoholic (@ViratKoholic) March 26, 2026

Great move !!!!! Worth to support this franchise man!
Yes, the incident was unfortunate but we remember them 🙌

— oh bouy! (@ohbouy2k) March 26, 2026

Harmanpreet Kaur, captain of the India women’s cricket team, stated on Wednesday that winning last year’s ODI World Cup at home has given the team much-needed confidence and self-belief to secure more titles anywhere in the world.

India defeated the South Africa women's national cricket team in Navi Mumbai to claim their maiden ICC title in November last year.

This achievement has strengthened the team’s belief in their abilities and their potential to succeed again in the upcoming ICC Women's T20 World Cup, scheduled to be held in the United Kingdom from June 12 to July 5.

Watch the video here: 

VIDEO | Delhi: "We’ll try our best (to win T20 World Cup later this year), last World Cup gave us confidence, and now we have the belief that we can win the World Cup anywhere in the world," says Team India captain Harmanpreet Kaur.

(Full video available on PTI Videos -… pic.twitter.com/Fv7U9ltHD5

— Press Trust of India (@PTI_News) March 25, 2026

Harmanpreet Kaur opens up on India’s title ambitions

Harmanpreet Kaur, captain of the Indian women’s cricket team, has expressed strong confidence in the team’s title ambitions after their recent success.

"Obviously, I am feeling good. We all knew that when we win a World Cup, things will change. So, to feel that change and to get a chance to live that change is a great feeling," Harmanpreet told PTI.

She added, "Winning the ODI World Cup at home has given our team strong confidence and self-belief. It shows that we can compete and win titles anywhere in the world."

See also -Harmanpreet Kaur excluded as ICC announces best team of Women's World Cup 2025

India women’s team preparations and key players to watch

The Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI) has announced the India Women’s National Cricket Team squad for the upcoming T20I series against the South Africa women's national cricket team. Harmanpreet Kaur will lead the 15-member squad in the five-match series from April 17 to April 27 in South Africa.

This South Africa tour is very important for the team’s preparation for the ICC Women's T20 World Cup 2026 in England. The team will use these matches in overseas conditions to prepare well and decide the final squad for the World Cup.

Apart from captain Harmanpreet Kaur and vice-captain Smriti Mandhana, some new players like Bharti Fulmali and Anushka Sharma are also in the squad. These matches will give them a good chance to earn a place in the World Cup team.

Arundhati Reddy won the ICC Women’s Player of the Month award for February 2026. All-rounder Deepti Sharma and spinner Shreyanka Patil are also important players to watch.

Renuka Singh Thakur will lead the pace attack, along with Kashvee Gautam, who is also a player to watch.

Fans react to Harmanpreet Kaur’s confident statement

So far, both ICC events in 2026 have been won by India, and all eyes will be on Harmanpreet & Co to keep the trend going when they compete in the 2026 Women’s T20 World Cup, set to take place in England from June 12 to July 5. Reflecting on India’s dominance across formats, Harmanpreet credited the Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI) for investing in all levels of the game.

Fans have reacted positively to the confident statement made by Harmanpreet Kaur about the team’s future. Many supporters praised her leadership and said her words show strong belief and a winning mindset. Fans also feel that the team is now more confident after their recent success and can perform well in big tournaments. Some also said that this positive attitude will help the Indian women’s team aim for more titles in the coming years.

The recent sale of the Rajasthan Royals has not only reshaped the business landscape of the Indian Premier League but has also drawn fresh attention to a notable financial decision made by late Australian legend Shane Warne—one that could now bring significant benefits to his family.

A US-based consortium led by Kal Somani has acquired a 100% stake in the franchise from the existing ownership group, which includes Emerging Media Ventures, RedBird Capital Partners, and Lachlan Murdoch.

The deal is currently subject to approval from the Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI). If approved, it will activate a special clause agreed upon with Shane Warne when he was appointed as captain and coach ahead of the IPL’s inaugural season in 2008.

Also read -Shane Warne's Death Mystery: Was Secret Evidence Removed?

🚨 Shane Warne masterstroke off the field 👀

₹9.35cr salary… but 3% equity secured 💰🔥

Now worth ₹460cr generational wealth play 💥

Ahead of his time or pure genius? 🤔 #3rdManView #IPL2026 #RR #ShaneWarne https://t.co/To3pc1B8TH pic.twitter.com/LHkubbl8Y4

— Third Man View (@3rdManView) March 25, 2026

🚨 SHANE WARNE - THE MASTERMIND. 🚨

📢 Shane Warne took a salary of just 9.35cr from Rajasthan Royals for playing for 4 seasons, but here’s the real twist:

⚠️ He demanded a 0.75% equity in RR every year till the time he plays for coming out of retirement!

❗️Warne played for 4…

— Mufaddal Vohra (@mufaddal_vohra) March 24, 2026

Why Rajasthan Royals are set to make a massive payment to Shane Warne’s family

When Australian spin legend Shane Warne became captain of Rajasthan Royals in the inaugural season of the Indian Premier League (IPL) in 2008, he included a special clause in his contract—one that is now set to deliver a significant financial benefit to his family.

At the time of signing, Warne was not only appointed as captain but was also given full control over the team’s cricketing operations. As part of the agreement, he was granted a 0.75% ownership stake in the franchise for every year he played.

Speaking about his role in an earlier interview, Warne said, “They asked me to be the captain, coach, and manage the team the way I wanted. I handled everything.”

Warne went on to spend four seasons with the Rajasthan Royals and famously led the team to victory in the 2008 IPL season. Over this period, his total ownership stake grew to 3%. With Rajasthan Royals now reportedly valued at around $1.6 billion, his 3% stake is estimated to be worth approximately ₹450–460 crore. This amount is expected to go to his family.

As of 2026, the franchise’s valuation highlights the remarkable growth of the IPL, which has become one of the richest and most influential sports leagues in the world.\

Shane Warne’s legacy and his impact on the Rajasthan Royals’ IPL journey

Shane Warne’s connection with the Rajasthan Royals was not just about money. He led the team to victory in the first IPL season in 2008, creating one of the most memorable success stories in the league. His leadership, ideas, and influence helped build the team’s identity in its early years.

The Australian leg-spinner guided Rajasthan Royals to the 2008 title and delivered strong performances during his four seasons with the team. He often led from the front and played an important role in the team’s success.

Warne also captained a young squad that included players like Ravindra Jadeja and Munaf Patel. He led the team with confidence and helped young players grow.

He had a memorable IPL career with the Rajasthan Royals. He played 55 matches, scored 198 runs with a best score of 57*, and took 57 wickets. His best bowling was 4/21, with an economy rate of 7.27 and an average of 25.39. His leadership helped the team win the first IPL title in 2008.

Even after his retirement and passing, his smart decision to take an ownership stake has created a strong financial future for his family. It also shows how athletes can benefit by planning for the long term.

Fans React to Emotional Tribute Ahead of IPL 2026 Season

Fans have shared strong emotions after the tribute ahead of IPL 2026, remembering Shane Warne and his legacy with the Rajasthan Royals. Many shared their respect and love on social media, calling him a true legend of the game.

One fan said, "Mastermind both on and off the field 😭💛." Another wrote, "Warne was playing chess while everyone else was playing cricket."

Read some of the comments below:

Mastermind both On and Off the field 😭💛 pic.twitter.com/H57ICTOIc4

— Fifth Stump (@fifthstump) March 24, 2026

Meanwhile uncapped player playing for only 4 crore 🤣 pic.twitter.com/7qo1AnjBaT

— Chronology (@Chronology1008) March 24, 2026

Somewhere In Heaven Today 😊 pic.twitter.com/HUS3w00Z7h

— CommentaryBox (@propnetwork1) March 24, 2026

Warne was playing Chess while everyone else was playing Cricket. ♟️ pic.twitter.com/2uoWasinsh

— Raman Jha 💻🎧 (@RamanRjha4647) March 24, 2026

That’s not just cricketing genius, that’s business brilliance. True mastermind. pic.twitter.com/v65qyBEkY5

— ViratKoholic (@ViratKoholic) March 24, 2026

While the IPL 2026 is set to begin in four days, the Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI) has come up with some strict rules for the teams. 

Indian Premier League 2026 will be the 19th edition of the tournament, which will begin on March 28 with the match between the defending champions Royal Challengers Bengaluru and SunRisers Hyderabad at Bengaluru. 

A total of the first 20 match schedules have been released already, while the remaining fixtures for the IPL 2026 will be confirmed soon. 

No match-day practice allowed as BCCI tightens IPL 2026 guidelines

In the new BCCI guideline, there is no match-day practice. This decision will not only help to protect the pitches, but it will also ensure that there is complete focus on the game on the field, with less disruption from the practice setups, staff movement, or ground staff. 

See Also: Royal Challengers Bengaluru to pay tribute to Bengaluru stampede victims ahead of IPL 2026

Know the new rules set by BCCI for upcoming season

Here are the complete new rules, which the BCCI has set for the IPL 2026.

New practice session rules

• No open nets will be allowed.
• Team can't utilise the other team's allotted wickets, even if the other team's practice ends early. 
• On match days, fitness tests won't be allowed on the main square. 
• On practice days, players must travel to the stadium in the team bus, while the team can travel in two batches. 
• Players can't travel with family members and friends, who can reach the stadium separately from the players, while they can watch from the hospitality area. 

New match day rules

• Despite the provision of hitting nets, players shouldn't hit onto the LED boards. 
• Players and support staff can't sit in front of the LED boards. The sitting area will be marked. 
• Players must wear the Orange or Purple cap. Even if they can't carry it for the entire game, they should wear it for at least the first two overs, which can help the broadcasters capture them. 
• Sleeveless jerseys and slippers are banned for the post-match presentation. First time breaching it will set a warning, while the second time will be resulted a fine. 

The Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI) has announced the schedule for IPL Fan Parks 2026 for the first three weekends, along with the start of the Indian Premier League (IPL) 2026.

To bring the IPL experience to more fans, these Fan Parks will be set up in 15 cities across 11 states during the first three weeks. This will give fans a chance to enjoy live IPL matches in a fun and lively environment.

The Fan Parks will be held over three weekends:

Week 1: March 28 & 29, 2026
Week 2: April 4 & 5, 2026
Week 3: April 11 & 12, 2026

Here in this article, let’s look at all the relevant details around the Fan Parks for IPL 2026 Phase 1.

🚨 News 🚨

BCCI announces the schedule for the #TATAIPL Fan Parks 2026 for the first three weekends, aligned with the opening phase of TATA IPL 2026.

The Fan Parks will be hosted across 15 cities in 11 states during the first three weeks.

More details ▶️… pic.twitter.com/5xQdjrq39f

— IndianPremierLeague (@IPL) March 23, 2026

Full list of cities hosting IPL 2026 fan parks

Week 1: March 28 & 29, 2026

Week 2: April 4 & 5, 2026

Week 3: April 11 & 12, 2026

See also -IPL introduces official fantasy League ahead of 2026 season

What fans can expect at IPL 2026 fan parks

Each Fan Park will feature live match screenings, along with a host of engaging on-ground activities including music, entertainment, food courts, kids’ play zones, and interactive fan engagement initiatives such as virtual batting experiences, bowling nets, face painting, cheer-o-meters and 360° photo booths.

How Board of Control for Cricket in India is expanding fan engagement this season

Since it started in 2015, the IPL Fan Park initiative has played an important role in growing the league’s reach and bringing the excitement of the IPL to fans across India. The 2026 season continues this effort, making sure fans in many cities can enjoy the IPL experience.

Before the start of the 19th edition of the Indian Premier League, the Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI)has decided to organise IPL 2026 Fan Parks in 15 cities across 11 states in the first phase. This will give fans a chance to enjoy live match action in a fun and lively setting. The league also said that more details about the next phase of IPL Fan Parks 2026 will be shared later after the schedule is announced. The Fan Parks will take place over three weekends.

The IPL 2026 season opener will be played on March 28, 2026, with Rajat Patidar leading the Royal Challengers Bengaluru against the Sunrisers Hyderabad at the M. Chinnaswamy Stadium in Bengaluru.