If officially confirmed, Ganguly will become the 12th Indian cricketer to be included in the prestigious list, joining some of the biggest names in the history of the sport. The recognition comes as another landmark moment in a career that helped reshape Indian cricket during one of its most challenging phases.

The timing of the expected announcement is particularly significant, coinciding with Ganguly’s 54th birthday. The former left-handed batter also marked the occasion with another major development in his life story, as the first look of his upcoming biographical film, Dada: The Sourav Ganguly Story, was unveiled.

The poster features actor Rajkummar Rao recreating one of the most iconic moments in Indian cricket history — Ganguly waving his shirt from the Lord’s balcony after India’s dramatic victory in the 2002 NatWest Trophy final. Sharing the poster on social media, Ganguly described it as one of the finest birthday gifts he could have received.

Ganguly’s contribution to Indian cricket extends far beyond statistics. He took over as captain in 2000 when Indian cricket was struggling to recover from the match-fixing controversy that had shaken the sport. At a time when public confidence in the national team was under pressure, Ganguly was entrusted with rebuilding the side and restoring its competitive spirit.

His tenure is widely remembered for backing young players who would later become pillars of Indian cricket. Virender Sehwag, Harbhajan Singh, Yuvraj Singh, Zaheer Khan, Mohammad Kaif and eventually Mahendra Singh Dhoni all emerged during the period when Ganguly was leading the team.

Under his leadership, India developed a more aggressive approach and began competing consistently against top international sides, both at home and overseas. The team shared the ICC Champions Trophy title in 2002, reached the final of the 2003 ODI World Cup in South Africa and recorded several memorable overseas performances.

Among the defining achievements of Ganguly’s captaincy were a drawn Test series in England, a historic Test series victory in Pakistan in 2004 and ending Australia’s remarkable run of 16 consecutive Test victories. These results helped establish India as a formidable force in world cricket.

His individual record also reflects a highly successful international career. Ganguly played 113 Test matches for India and scored 7,212 runs, including 16 centuries. In One-Day Internationals, he represented the country in 311 matches and amassed 11,363 runs with 22 centuries to his name.

Known for his elegant strokeplay on the off side, Ganguly formed one of the most successful opening partnerships in ODI history alongside Sachin Tendulkar. He also contributed with the ball, claiming 132 international wickets across formats.

After retiring from international cricket in 2008, Ganguly continued to influence the game through cricket administration. He served as president of the Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI) and remains an influential figure in the sport. He is currently associated with the Cricket Association of Bengal (CAB).

The ICC Hall of Fame recognises players who have made exceptional contributions to cricket and left a lasting impact on the game. Ganguly’s expected induction places him alongside Indian greats such as Kapil Dev, Sunil Gavaskar, Sachin Tendulkar, Rahul Dravid, Anil Kumble, Virender Sehwag, MS Dhoni, Diana Edulji and others who have previously received the honour.

For many cricket followers, the recognition serves as another acknowledgment of Ganguly’s role in transforming Indian cricket and laying the foundation for the team’s rise as a global powerhouse in the years that followed.

India's preparations for the white-ball tour of the United Kingdom have suffered an early setback. Nitish Reddy has been ruled out of both T20I assignments after sustaining a muscle injury, prompting selectors to bring in emerging all-rounder Suryansh Shedge.

The Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI) has confirmed that all-rounder Nitish Kumar Reddy will miss the upcoming T20I series against Ireland and England due to injury. The 23-year-old experienced discomfort in his left quadriceps during the third ODI against Afghanistan in Chennai on June 20 and was subsequently assessed by the BCCI medical team.

Following detailed medical evaluations, doctors recommended a rehabilitation period, ruling him out of India's entire T20I campaign in the United Kingdom. The development comes as a setback for both the player and team management, which had viewed Reddy as an important all-round option in the shortest format.

India begin their UK tour with the Ireland T20I series starting on June 26 before taking on England in a high-profile white-ball contest.

Injury Forces Withdrawal

According to the BCCI, Reddy had already shown signs of fitness concerns during the Afghanistan ODI series. He missed the second ODI in Lucknow due to a sore thigh before returning for the final match in Chennai.

However, the discomfort resurfaced during the game, leading to further medical examinations. Officials have not yet announced a definitive timeline for his return, leaving uncertainty over his availability for the ODI series against England scheduled to begin on July 14.

The latest injury adds to a challenging period for Reddy, who has struggled with recurring fitness issues since 2025. Previous injury setbacks also affected his participation in international and franchise cricket over the past year.

Suryansh Shedge Gets Opportunity

The selection committee has named Suryansh Shedge as Reddy's replacement for both T20I series. The Mumbai all-rounder has earned his maiden senior India call-up after a string of impressive performances across domestic and India A cricket.

Shedge recently played a key role in India A's successful tri-series campaign, scoring 147 runs in five matches while contributing valuable overs with the ball. His ability to contribute in multiple departments reportedly impressed selectors.

The all-rounder also enjoyed a standout Syed Mushtaq Ali Trophy campaign, scoring 131 runs at a strike rate above 250 and helping Mumbai secure the title. Team management believes his aggressive batting and utility bowling make him a suitable replacement in India's T20 setup.

Team Departs for Ireland

The Indian squad has begun travelling to Ireland in phases. The first group departing from Chennai included players such as Sanju Samson, Axar Patel, Vaibhav Sooryavanshi and Abhishek Sharma, along with members of the coaching and support staff.

Additional players are expected to join the squad from Mumbai before the opening fixture.

Impact on India's Plans

Reddy's absence removes an important pace-bowling all-round option from India's T20 combination. Team management had been monitoring his development closely, particularly after his performances in international cricket and the IPL.

For Shedge, the opportunity represents a chance to establish himself at the highest level. Strong performances in Ireland and England could strengthen his case for future selection in India's white-ball squads.

With the first T20I just days away, attention will now shift to how India reshapes its balance and whether the newcomer can seize a breakthrough opportunity on the international stage.

One of Indian cricket’s most anticipated young talents has taken a major step in his career. Vaibhav Sooryavanshi is now on the verge of making his international debut after receiving his first India jersey and departing with the national squad for Ireland.

India's teenage cricket prodigy Vaibhav Sooryavanshi has moved a step closer to realizing his dream of representing the country at the highest level. The 15-year-old batter received his first Team India jersey ahead of the upcoming T20I series against Ireland, marking a significant milestone in a remarkable rise that has captured the attention of the cricketing world.

The Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI) shared a video of the emotional moment when Team India throwdown specialist Raghu handed Sooryavanshi his national jersey. The youngster, visibly overwhelmed, described the occasion as the fulfillment of a dream he had carried since picking up a bat for the first time.

Sooryavanshi has already departed for Ireland alongside senior players including Sanju Samson and Abhishek Sharma. With the series set to begin this week, cricket fans are eagerly waiting to see whether the teenager will earn his first international cap.

Emotional First Moment

Speaking after receiving the jersey, Sooryavanshi said he struggled to put the experience into words. According to the youngster, seeing the India jersey for the first time felt surreal and represented the biggest step in a journey that began during his childhood cricket training.

The BCCI video showed Raghu arriving at his room with the jersey package. After respectfully greeting him, Sooryavanshi carefully opened the box and held the jersey in his hands, smiling as he absorbed the significance of the moment.

The footage quickly gained traction on social media, with fans and former cricketers congratulating the teenager on reaching another landmark in his career.

Ireland Tour Begins

Soon after joining the squad, Sooryavanshi was seen travelling with the Indian team to Ireland. A selfie featuring the young batter alongside Abhishek Sharma and members of the support staff went viral online.

Many fans highlighted the possibility of an explosive opening partnership between Sharma and Sooryavanshi. Both players are known for their aggressive batting approach and ability to dominate bowlers from the very first over.

If selected for the opening match, Sooryavanshi could become one of the youngest players ever to represent India at the international level.

Meteoric Rise in Cricket

Over the past year, Sooryavanshi has emerged as one of the most exciting young talents in world cricket. His performances across domestic tournaments, age-group cricket and franchise competitions have consistently strengthened his case for national selection.

The teenager attracted widespread attention after becoming the youngest centurion in IPL history. He followed that achievement with strong performances in domestic competitions, including the Syed Mushtaq Ali Trophy and Vijay Hazare Trophy.

His breakthrough season reached another level during IPL 2026, where he scored 776 runs and finished as the tournament's leading run-scorer, outperforming established stars such as Virat Kohli, Shubman Gill and KL Rahul.

The youngster also impressed in the recent tri-series final against Sri Lanka A, producing a match-winning knock of 94 under pressure.

The high-profile trade marks a significant squad reshuffle for both franchises after a disappointing season for Lucknow Super Giants and a strategic rebuild by Delhi Capitals.

Delhi Capitals (DC) and Lucknow Super Giants (LSG) have completed one of the most talked-about trades in recent IPL history, with wicketkeeper-batter Rishabh Pant returning to his former franchise and spinner Kuldeep Yadav moving in the opposite direction. The deal comes after Pant's difficult stint with Lucknow and signals a major change in plans for both teams ahead of the next IPL season.

Pant, who spent nine seasons with Delhi Capitals between 2016 and 2024, is set to wear the franchise's colours once again. The left-handed batter had become the most expensive player in IPL history when Lucknow acquired him for ₹27 crore during the 2025 mega auction. However, his performances as both captain and batter failed to meet expectations, leading to speculation about his future with the franchise.

Reports indicate that Pant agreed to a substantial reduction in salary to facilitate the move. His new contract value is expected to be around ₹15 crore, making the transfer financially viable for Delhi Capitals.

The development is being viewed as one of the most significant post-IPL 2026 transactions, with both franchises attempting to reshape their squads after mixed performances in recent seasons.

Pant's Homecoming

Rishabh Pant's return brings familiarity and experience back to the Delhi setup. During his first spell with the franchise, he established himself as one of the league's most explosive batters and emerged as a key figure in the team's leadership group.

Pant represented Delhi Capitals in 111 IPL matches before parting ways with the franchise ahead of the 2025 mega auction. His departure was reportedly linked to differences over future plans, but the latest move suggests both sides have found common ground.

Despite returning to Delhi, reports suggest the franchise is unlikely to hand him the captaincy immediately. Team management is expected to evaluate leadership options separately while focusing on Pant's role as a senior player and match-winner.

Kuldeep Heads to Lucknow

As part of the trade, Kuldeep Yadav's successful five-year association with Delhi Capitals has come to an end. The left-arm wrist spinner joined Delhi in 2022 and became one of the team's most reliable bowlers, taking 72 wickets in 65 matches.

The move represents a homecoming of sorts for Kuldeep, who has strong ties to Uttar Pradesh cricket. Lucknow believe his experience and wicket-taking ability can strengthen a bowling attack that struggled for consistency during IPL 2026.

According to franchise sources, Kuldeep's arrival is expected to play a central role in LSG's rebuilding plans following a disappointing campaign.

Leadership and Future Plans

Pant's exit from Lucknow appeared increasingly likely after he stepped down from the team's captaincy. Under his leadership, LSG managed only 10 wins in 28 matches across two seasons and finished 10th in IPL 2026 after ending seventh in 2025.

His batting form also came under scrutiny, with the wicketkeeper-batter scoring just 312 runs during the 2026 season. The franchise's management subsequently began exploring options to restructure the squad.

Delhi Capitals co-owner Parth Jindal publicly thanked Kuldeep Yadav for his contribution to the franchise and welcomed Pant back, expressing confidence in the batter's ability to rediscover his best form.

With the IPL transfer window still active, the Pant-Kuldeep exchange could influence further player movements across franchises. Analysts believe the deal has the potential to reshape the balance of both teams as preparations begin for the next IPL season.

Team India received a timely boost on Tuesday as star players Rohit Sharma and Hardik Pandya were declared fully fit for the upcoming three-match ODI series against Afghanistan. Both cricketers, who endured injury setbacks during the IPL 2026 season, have cleared fitness assessments at the BCCI’s Centre of Excellence in Bengaluru.

The development ends uncertainty over their participation and strengthens India’s squad depth ahead of the bilateral series, expected to begin later this week.

Fitness Clearance After Tough IPL

Rohit Sharma and Hardik Pandya missed several matches for Mumbai Indians during the recently concluded IPL due to fitness concerns. Rohit sat out seven games with a hamstring issue before making a strong comeback, scoring a brisk half-century. Pandya too battled niggles that limited his involvement.

Following the IPL, both reported to the BCCI’s CoE for rehabilitation. Sources confirmed they completed all required tests under the supervision of the Sports Science and medical teams. Officials have now given them the green light to return to competitive cricket.

Rohit’s Recovery Path

The former India captain’s clearance comes as a relief for fans and the team management. Known for his leadership and big-match temperament, Rohit has a rich legacy, including leading Mumbai Indians to multiple IPL titles and guiding India to major white-ball triumphs.

His recent return during the IPL, despite the injury layoff, showed promising signs. With the ODI series providing an important assignment before bigger challenges, Rohit’s experience at the top will be crucial.

Pandya Completes Demanding Sessions

Hardik Pandya, who arrived at the CoE on June 2 after a brief holiday abroad, underwent intensive training over the next few days. According to a source close to the development, the all-rounder participated in multiple match simulation drills and bowled his full quota of 10 overs without any discomfort.

“Hardik was on a holiday abroad before he checked in at the CoE on June 2. Over the next five days, he did several match simulations and even bowled (full quota of) 10 overs,” the source told PTI. His fitness parameters were found satisfactory by the strength and conditioning coaches.

Bowling Workload Boosts Hopes

One of the most encouraging aspects of Pandya’s recovery is his ability to complete bowling spells during training. This indicates he is prepared for the physical demands of 50-over cricket. As a genuine all-rounder, Pandya offers balance to the Indian side with his medium-pace bowling and explosive batting in the middle and death overs.

India’s assistant coach Sitanshu Kotak had earlier voiced confidence in Pandya’s progress. The latest medical clearance reinforces that optimism and gives the team management valuable flexibility in team combination.

Uncertain Travel Plans

It remains unclear whether Hardik Pandya will join the squad for the under-lights training session in Chandigarh or travel directly to Dharamsala, the likely venue for the series. Team officials are expected to finalise plans shortly.

Significance for Indian Cricket

The return of Rohit and Hardik comes at an important phase for Indian white-ball cricket. Afghanistan have grown stronger in limited-overs formats, and the series offers India a chance to fine-tune strategies and combinations. The presence of senior players like Rohit and Pandya will not only boost morale but also provide guidance to younger members of the squad.

For Rohit, this series could mark another step in his carefully managed workload management. Pandya, meanwhile, will be keen to regain full match rhythm and cement his place as a key all-rounder.

Local cricket enthusiasts in the host cities are eagerly awaiting the series, which promises competitive action. With both stars now available, India head into the contest with a stronger hand.

What Lies Ahead

The BCCI is expected to announce the squad and detailed itinerary soon. Fans will closely watch how quickly the duo integrates into the playing XI and whether their return translates into match-winning performances.

IIM Indore is undertaking a first-of-its-kind multidisciplinary study of 15-year-old IPL sensation Vaibhav Suryavanshi. The research aims to decode the blueprint behind his record-breaking season and understand the psychological and social factors that create extraordinary young talent.

The classroom is about to meet the cricketing colosseum. Just days after Vaibhav Suryavanshi's bat stopped sending bowlers on leather-hunts, the Indian Institute of Management (IIM) Indore has announced a comprehensive case study on the 15-year-old phenom. The project, tentatively called the "Vaibhav Model," marks the first time a premier business school is conducting a multidisciplinary academic study of a teenage sporting prodigy.

Breaking the Record Books

The move comes on the heels of an IPL season for the ages. Representing the Rajasthan Royals, the boy from Bihar's Motipur village left a trail of destruction, amassing 776 runs in 16 innings at an average of 48.50. He smashed 72 sixes during the campaign, obliterating Chris Gayle's 14-year-old record of 59 maximums in a single season. When asked by coach Rahul Dravid to play cautiously, the teenager famously replied: "Sir, let the bowler watch me".

More Than Just a Bat Swing

While Suryavanshi's strike rate of 237.30 has set social media ablaze, IIM Indore isn't just looking at the numbers. According to IIM Director Himanshu Rai, the research will dive deeper. "This is not merely a story of exceptional cricketing performance," Rai told reporters. "It is a case study in human potential, talent development, discipline, mental strength and sustained excellence".

Experts from sports science, psychology, and management will collaborate to analyze the social, familial, and institutional factors behind Suryavanshi's meteoric rise.

Unpacking the 'Dark Side'

However, the study isn't solely focused on replicating success; it also aims to build a safety net. IIM Indore plans to focus on the "dark side" of early fame. Researchers are keen to understand how a 15-year-old handles crore-rupee contracts, the glare of social media, and the weight of public expectation—pitfalls that have derailed many promising careers before they could truly flourish. "Mental health, emotional balance and long-term development are just as important as talent," Rai noted.

An Organic Meteoric Rise

Vaibhav’s story is rooted in immense sacrifice and grit. His father, Sanjiv, sold land to fund his training, while childhood coach Manish Ojha ensured the eight-year-old faced at least 600 deliveries a day. Later mentored by Rahul Dravid and Zubin Bharucha at the Royals, Suryavanshi refined his technique against 150 kmph throwdowns. Standing at just 5'7'' and weighing 55 kg, his power is derived from bat speed, timing, and a decision-making time of just 0.3 seconds.

A Blueprint for Talent Management

IIM faculty member Dr. Aarti Chopra believes the findings will be invaluable for future managers and policymakers. "Vaibhav's cricket journey is remarkable, but the study is extremely valuable for the corporate world," she said. The institute hopes to create a support system blueprint that allows extreme talent to be nurtured without burning out.

As IIM researchers prepare to dissect the mechanics of his excellence, Vaibhav Suryavanshi, at just 15, is no longer just breaking records—he is becoming a case study in greatness.

Cricket legend Sachin Tendulkar has called for a balanced approach towards teenage sensation Vaibhav Sooryavanshi, emphasising the need to nurture the youngster’s talent without burdening him with undue expectations. The Master Blaster made these remarks at the ESPNCricinfo Honours event, even as India’s chief selector Ajit Agarkar sat in the audience.

The 15-year-old Rajasthan Royals batter has been the breakout star of the recently concluded IPL season, grabbing headlines with his fearless strokeplay and record-breaking knocks. Despite Rajasthan Royals’ exit from the title race, conversations around Sooryavanshi’s rapid rise continue to dominate cricket circles.

Tendulkar’s Careful Endorsement

When asked whether Sooryavanshi should be fast-tracked into India’s Test squad, Tendulkar chose his words carefully in front of Agarkar. “When Ajit is sitting here, I’d better be careful what I am saying. I’m not a selector,” he said with a laugh, drawing chuckles from the gathering.

However, the former India captain made his admiration clear. “Not just me, but everyone would want to see him at some stage. An exciting talent needs encouragement. We need to enjoy him above all and not put pressure on him constantly,” Tendulkar added.

Protecting Natural Instincts

Tendulkar, known for his deep understanding of batting craft, also spoke about preserving Sooryavanshi’s natural game. He described the young left-hander as someone who looks “very confident, very sure of what he wants to do.”

“I wouldn’t want to play around with his natural instincts because the way he sees the ball and responds to it… if that signal is interrupted by telling him multiple things, that’s where the real challenge would be,” he observed. Tendulkar advocated giving the youngster freedom to bat his way while developing a solution-oriented mindset for future challenges.

Recent India A Call-Up

Sooryavanshi has already received official recognition from the national selectors. The Men’s Selection Committee named him in the India A squad for the upcoming white-ball tri-series in Sri Lanka, beginning June 9, 2026. The tournament, featuring India A, Sri Lanka A, and Afghanistan A, will be held in Dambulla, with the final scheduled for June 21.

Following the limited-overs leg, India A is slated to play two multi-day matches against Sri Lanka A in Galle. This exposure is being seen as a crucial step in the youngster’s development pathway.

Broader Message on Talent Management

The discussion around Sooryavanshi comes at a time when Indian cricket is witnessing a wave of young talents breaking through at record pace. Tendulkar’s comments reflect a growing concern among veterans about the intense scrutiny and pressure modern youngsters face through constant analysis and social media noise.

Also Read: Vaibhav Sooryavanshi’s Record-Breaking IPL Campaign

Tendulkar Calls for IPL Reforms

During the same event, Tendulkar also shared his views on the Indian Premier League’s playing conditions. He strongly advocated for the removal of the Impact Player rule, which he believes creates an imbalance favouring batters.

“I feel the impact player needs to go away. In a T20 format, you play 20 overs and then you add one more batter. Where bowlers are already being challenged, I find that imbalance,” Tendulkar said.

He further suggested structural changes to restore balance, including allowing bowlers five overs instead of four and introducing a bowling powerplay. According to him, the first four overs could remain a batters’ powerplay with field restrictions, while the fielding captain could strategically use the remaining two overs with an extra fielder outside the 30-yard circle.

Several IPL captains, including Shubman Gill and Axar Patel, have echoed similar sentiments about the Impact Player rule in recent weeks.

Public Interest and Future Outlook

Sooryavanshi’s emergence has generated tremendous excitement among fans, particularly in Rajasthan and Bihar, his home state. Local cricket enthusiasts see him as a potential long-term prospect for India across formats.

As the 15-year-old prepares for his India A assignment in Sri Lanka, the cricket fraternity will be watching closely. How the system manages his workload and mental space in the coming years could define not just his career but also set a precedent for handling future prodigies in Indian cricket.

Tendulkar’s measured words serve as a timely reminder that while talent like Sooryavanshi’s deserves celebration, it also requires protection and patience.

With Vaibhav Sooryavanshi rewriting IPL records at 15, Yashasvi Jaiswal faces his lowest-scoring IPL season — and growing calls from cricketing voices to seek a fresh start elsewhere.

Prodigy Rewrites the Record Books

It was supposed to be another Rajasthan Royals batting display. By the time Vaibhav Sooryavanshi walked off the field against Sunrisers Hyderabad — dismissed for 97, three runs shy of what would have been the fastest hundred in IPL history — the conversation in Indian cricket had already changed. The 15-year-old had broken Chris Gayle's record for the most sixes in a single IPL season during the same innings, helping RR post 243/8. SRH replied with 196, losing by 47 runs.

It was emphatically Sooryavanshi's evening. And that, increasingly, is the problem for the man who opens alongside him.

Jaiswal's Numbers Quietly Dip

Yashasvi Jaiswal has scored 426 runs in the current IPL campaign — his lowest return across the past four seasons. The contrast with recent years is sharp: 559 runs, then 435, then a career-best 625 in 2024. The spark that once defined his game at the top of the order has been harder to find, and former India players are beginning to say so publicly.

Former India captain Mohammad Kaif was candid on his YouTube channel about what he sees unfolding at Rajasthan Royals.

"Jaiswal was one such player who used to dominate. What Vaibhav is doing, Jaiswal used to do. Yes, he didn't use to hit so many sixes but had a higher strike rate and used to hit boundaries. He has gotten behind that phase. He's a strong player and would make a comeback." — Mohammad Kaif

He added: "Someone is doing his work, and that too 50 times better, so that's the difference. He's playing second fiddle. I think he's an excellent player."

Rayudu Urges a Move

Now in his seventh season with the Royals, Jaiswal is at a fork in the road — at least according to Ambati Rayudu. The former Chennai Super Kings batter told ESPNcricinfo that the young opener needs a platform where the spotlight belongs to him alone.

"He needs to change his game because he cannot just bat with the guy and be overshadowed every single time. He is a star in his own right. If he goes to another team, he will win games on his own. He needs space and a platform because this guy will continue to overshadow people." — Ambati Rayudu, ESPNcricinfo

Rayudu also named a potential destination, pointing to Mumbai Indians as a side that will eventually need to fill the opening slot vacated by Rohit Sharma. "MI could be a great team for Jaiswal," he said.

White-Ball Future in Question

The concern stretches beyond franchise cricket. Jaiswal was once considered an all-format certainty for India, but the picture looks more complicated now. A century against South Africa in his most recent ODI outing was a bright spot, yet he was not included in the squad for the subsequent Afghanistan series. In T20Is, the surging form of Abhishek Sharma and Sanju Samson has pushed him further down the pecking order in the shortest format.

What Comes Next

There is no dispute over Jaiswal's talent — even Kaif was emphatic about his quality and future. The harder question is about context. When the same stage, the same team, and often the same over belongs to a 15-year-old phenom, even the best players can find themselves adjusting in ways that don't suit them. Whether Jaiswal re-establishes his identity at the Royals or moves on will become clearer at the auction table. For now, the debate is live — and louder than he would have hoped.

Former Indian cricketer Suresh Raina has shared a fresh update on the future of MS Dhoni’s IPL career, saying the legendary captain told him his body is “feeling a bit weak,” sparking renewed speculation about retirement.

Raina revealed the conversation during the post-match broadcast on Star Sports after the Chennai Super Kings vs Sunrisers Hyderabad match on Monday, where he met Dhoni at Chepauk stadium. Raina said he jokingly told Dhoni, “Take IPL 2026 as a missed call. It doesn’t make sense. You have to come back next year.” In response, Dhoni reportedly said, “My body is a bit weak.”

‘It’s a personal decision,’ says Raina

Raina added that while the final decision rests with Dhoni, he personally believes the former India captain is still in a positive frame of mind.

According to Raina, the Chennai Super Kings environment is also stabilising again, suggesting that the team is rebuilding momentum even amid uncertainty around Dhoni’s future. Raina further said, “It’s his personal decision, but I feel he is positive.”

Emotional moment at Chepauk

During the same match, MS Dhoni was seen arriving at Chepauk stadium, where he interacted with teammates and fans. He also shared an emotional moment with Raina, embracing him warmly on the field. The Chennai Super Kings franchise later posted a picture of the two former teammates on social media platform X, highlighting their long-standing bond as key figures in the team’s history.

Dhoni also took a lap around the stadium, acknowledging the crowd, which intensified speculation that this could be one of his final appearances at the venue.

Retirement speculation continues

In recent days, several media reports had claimed that Dhoni might be playing his final IPL match at Chepauk this season. However, despite widespread speculation and emotional scenes at the stadium, no official retirement announcement was made. The 42-year-old wicketkeeper-batter has not played any match in the ongoing season due to a calf strain injury, which has kept him away from active competition.

Dhoni’s IPL legacy remains unmatched

MS Dhoni remains one of the most successful captains in IPL history, having led Chennai Super Kings to five titles. Under his leadership, CSK became one of the most consistent franchises in the league. He has also scored over 5,000 IPL runs and is widely regarded as one of the greatest finishers and leaders in T20 cricket. Despite injury concerns and growing retirement talks, Dhoni continues to remain closely associated with CSK’s dressing room and team environment.

Indian cricket star Hardik Pandya has once again become the center of attention, but this time not because of his on-field performance. During the ongoing IPL 2026 season, rumors about the all-rounder’s alleged second marriage have taken over social media platforms. Actress and model Mahika Sharma’s name is being linked with the cricketer, leading to widespread speculation among fans and entertainment circles.

Although neither Hardik Pandya nor Mahika Sharma has officially confirmed any relationship or wedding plans, online discussions and fan theories continue to gain momentum. Several entertainment pages and social media accounts have claimed that the two share a close bond and could reportedly take their relationship to the next level in the coming months.

The rumors surfaced shortly after renewed discussions around Hardik Pandya’s personal life began circulating online. Ever since reports of his separation from former partner Natasa Stankovic gained attention, fans have remained curious about the cricketer’s future relationships. The sudden appearance of Mahika Sharma’s name alongside Hardik has only intensified the speculation.

Mahika Sharma is a known face in the television and modeling industry. She has appeared in several television projects, advertisements and music videos over the years. Apart from acting, she also enjoys a strong social media presence and frequently interacts with fans online. Recently, some of her comments praising Hardik Pandya reportedly caught public attention and fueled dating rumors further.

According to entertainment industry discussions, Mahika Sharma had earlier described Hardik Pandya as one of her favorite cricketers in an interview. She reportedly admired his confidence, style and aggressive approach on the cricket field. Following these remarks, social media users quickly began connecting the two personalities and creating speculation around a possible relationship.

Meanwhile, Hardik Pandya remains fully focused on IPL 2026. The star all-rounder continues to play a crucial role for his franchise during the tournament. Despite the off-field discussions, Hardik has maintained his concentration on cricket and has avoided commenting publicly on the rumors.

Social media users, however, continue to debate the possibility of Hardik Pandya getting married again. Some viral posts even suggested that wedding plans could happen later this year after the conclusion of IPL commitments. However, no verified source has confirmed such claims so far.

The connection between cricket and the entertainment industry has always fascinated Indian audiences. Over the years, several Indian cricketers have married actresses, models and celebrities from the film world. Because of this history, any rumored relationship involving a popular cricketer immediately grabs nationwide attention.

Hardik Pandya remains one of the most followed Indian cricketers globally. Known for his explosive batting, stylish personality and confident attitude, he has built a massive fan base among younger audiences. His personal life often becomes a major topic of conversation online, especially during high-profile tournaments like the IPL.

At the same time, Mahika Sharma has also gained recognition for her glamorous public image and active online engagement. Fans of both celebrities have been sharing edited photos, videos and speculative posts across various social media platforms. Some users believe the rumors could eventually turn out to be true, while others feel it is simply another celebrity gossip trend.

Entertainment analysts believe such rumors often grow rapidly due to fan culture and viral content on digital platforms. In many cases, casual comments, social media interactions or public appearances lead to larger relationship speculations even without official confirmation.

So far, neither Hardik Pandya nor Mahika Sharma has directly addressed the marriage rumors. Their silence has further encouraged fans and online communities to continue discussing the topic. Many people are now waiting to see whether either side eventually releases an official statement regarding the ongoing speculation.

The timing of these rumors has also attracted attention because IPL 2026 is currently at a crucial stage. While fans closely follow playoff calculations and player performances, celebrity gossip surrounding major cricketers has become an additional talking point during the tournament.

For now, the reports regarding Hardik Pandya and Mahika Sharma remain unverified. There is no official confirmation about engagement, marriage plans or even a confirmed relationship between the two personalities.

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Virat Kohli once again proved why he remains one of the greatest batters in modern cricket as he scripted multiple records during Royal Challengers Bengaluru’s emphatic six-wicket victory over Kolkata Knight Riders in IPL 2026. Playing at the Shaheed Veer Narayan Singh International Stadium in Raipur on Wednesday night, Kohli delivered a breathtaking unbeaten century and etched his name deeper into the history books of both IPL and T20 cricket.

The star batter remained unbeaten on 105 runs and guided RCB to a comfortable chase against KKR. His innings was filled with trademark elegance, controlled aggression, and flawless timing, helping Bengaluru register another crucial victory in the tournament. However, beyond the result, the night belonged entirely to Kohli as he shattered several major milestones in the process.

The biggest achievement of the evening came when Kohli became the fastest batter in T20 cricket history to complete 14,000 runs. He reached the landmark in just 409 innings, surpassing West Indies legend Chris Gayle, who had earlier achieved the feat in 423 innings. Kohli’s consistency across formats and leagues has made him one of the most dependable batters in world cricket, and this latest record further strengthened his legacy in the shortest format of the game.

Kohli also became the first player in IPL history to play 279 matches in the tournament. With this appearance for Royal Challengers Bengaluru, he overtook MS Dhoni and Rohit Sharma, who have both played 278 IPL matches each. Kohli has represented only one franchise throughout his IPL career and remains the face of RCB since the league’s inception in 2008.

The veteran batter now has more than 9,100 runs in IPL history. In 279 matches, Kohli has scored 9 centuries and 66 half-centuries, making him the highest run-scorer in the tournament’s history. His incredible longevity and consistency continue to inspire millions of cricket fans across the globe.

Wednesday’s century was Kohli’s ninth hundred in IPL history, extending his own record for the most centuries in the league. England batter Jos Buttler follows him with seven IPL centuries. Kohli’s latest knock also marked his 10th century in T20 cricket overall, helping him equal Australian batter David Warner on the list of most T20 centuries. Former West Indies superstar Chris Gayle remains at the top with 22 T20 centuries, while Pakistan’s Babar Azam has registered 13 centuries in the format.

Another remarkable milestone came during the chase as Kohli registered his third IPL century while batting second. With this achievement, he equaled Jos Buttler for the most centuries in successful run chases in IPL history. Kohli has always been regarded as one of the finest chasers in cricket, and this innings once again highlighted his ability to absorb pressure and finish games in style.

The RCB opener also became only the second batter in IPL history to score two centuries each against two different teams. Kohli has now scored two hundreds against Gujarat Lions and two against Kolkata Knight Riders, showcasing his dominance against multiple opponents over the years.

Kohli’s brilliance also helped him equal Rohit Sharma’s record for the most Player of the Match awards by an Indian player in IPL history. After his match-winning century against KKR, Kohli received his 21st Player of the Match award in the tournament. Both Kohli and Rohit now share the top spot among Indian players with 21 awards each. MS Dhoni is third on the list with 18 awards, while Ravindra Jadeja and KL Rahul have 17 each.

Another major achievement came when Kohli crossed the 400-run mark in an IPL season for the 12th time in his career. No other batter has achieved this level of consistency in the league’s history. Former Sunrisers Hyderabad captain David Warner occupies second place with nine seasons of 400-plus runs. Kohli’s ability to deliver season after season continues to separate him from the rest.

Against Kolkata Knight Riders specifically, Kohli now holds the record for scoring the most runs against the franchise in IPL history. After his unbeaten century, his tally against KKR rose to 1,126 runs. Interestingly, Kohli also owns the record for scoring the most runs against any single team in IPL. He has scored 1,174 runs against Chennai Super Kings and 1,172 runs against Delhi Capitals.

Apart from Kohli’s heroics, RCB pacer Bhuvneshwar Kumar also achieved a milestone during the match. He equaled Yuzvendra Chahal’s record for taking the most wickets against Kolkata Knight Riders in IPL history. Both bowlers now have 33 wickets each against KKR.

For Kolkata Knight Riders, however, the season’s struggles continued. Their batting lineup once again failed to provide a strong start. KKR’s opening partnerships have produced only 248 runs in 11 innings this season, the lowest among all IPL teams. The team has managed only one fifty-plus opening stand so far.

Kolkata also continued their poor trend in the powerplay overs. In IPL 2026, they have lost 23 wickets inside the first six overs, making them one of the worst-performing teams in the powerplay phase. On the other hand, RCB bowlers have claimed 24 wickets in powerplays this season, making them one of the most successful bowling units during the opening overs.

As RCB celebrated another important victory, the night firmly belonged to Virat Kohli. From becoming the fastest player to 14,000 T20 runs to rewriting IPL history with multiple milestones, the former India captain once again reminded the cricketing world why he continues to be one of the biggest icons of the sport.

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Notices served but no violation yet

Indian cricketers Yashasvi Jaiswal and Shafali Verma have been served official “missed test” notices by the National Anti-Doping Agency (NADA). The agency issued the notices after both players were reportedly not available at their declared locations for out-of-competition dope tests.

The Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI) has also been informed. Both cricketers are part of NADA’s Registered Testing Pool (RTP), which requires them to regularly update their whereabouts for surprise sample collection.

At this stage, this is not an anti-doping violation. But the development has drawn attention because repeated failures can lead to disciplinary action under NADA’s code.

What happened with Jaiswal and Shafali?

According to a India Today report, NADA officials attempted to test Jaiswal on December 17 last year. Shafali’s scheduled test was on November 7. On both occasions, the players were not found at the locations they had submitted to the agency.

NADA later asked both to explain the situation. Jaiswal reportedly received the communication on February 18, while Shafali got hers on February 20. No response came within the given time, so the agency recorded their first missed tests.

Under NADA rules, athletes in the RTP must provide a specific time slot and exact location where a Doping Control Officer can reach them for surprise testing — even during off-season or personal breaks.

Three failures within a year can bring suspension

A single missed test does not automatically mean a rule violation. But three whereabouts failures within 12 months can be treated as an anti-doping violation. If a player fails to defend themselves before NADA’s hearing panel, they could face a suspension of up to two years.

The system is designed to ensure athletes remain available for random testing at all times — outside tournaments, training camps, or personal travel.

Crucial time for both cricketers

The notices have come at an important stage in their careers. Jaiswal is currently playing for Rajasthan Royals in IPL 2026. The team is still fighting for a playoff spot, and any distraction is unwelcome.

Shafali remains a key part of India Women’s plans ahead of the Women’s T20 World Cup in England and Wales, starting June 12. Missing tests at this stage, even procedural ones, adds unwanted attention.

A reminder of past doping cases

The incident has reminded many of Prithvi Shaw’s 2019 case. The former India opener received an eight-month suspension after testing positive for Terbutaline, a banned substance found in cough syrup. The BCCI had then clarified Shaw consumed it unintentionally.

Unlike that case, the current notices to Jaiswal and Shafali are only about missed tests — not failed samples. Still, the warnings underline how seriously NADA enforces compliance for modern athletes. Both players now have a chance to respond or update their whereabouts more carefully to avoid further notices.