RCB clinch back-to-back IPL titles in Ahmedabad; 15-year-old Suryavanshi steals the show with Orange Cap, MVP, and three more honours

Champions Again in Ahmedabad

Royal Challengers Bangalore are IPL champions for the second season running. In a final that kept Ahmedabad on edge, RCB overcame Gujarat Titans by five wickets to lift the trophy once more — a result that cements their standing as the most dominant side of recent seasons.

The win brought with it ₹20 crore in prize money, while runners-up Gujarat Titans walked away with ₹12.5 crore. Those figures look significant on paper. But they come with a striking footnote — the prize money RCB earned as champions is still less than what Virat Kohli alone took home in salary this season. Kohli's IPL 2026 retainer stood at ₹21 crore, a crore more than what the entire winning side received in winnings.

Suryavanshi's Historic Sweep

If the final belonged to RCB, the season belonged to one name above all others.

Vaibhav Suryavanshi, a 15-year-old from Rajasthan, walked off the ground at the end of IPL 2026 with five individual awards in hand — a haul that no player his age, or anywhere near it, has managed in the tournament's history. He won the Orange Cap after accumulating 776 runs across the season, the most by any batter. He was also named Most Valuable Player, Emerging Player of the Season, and Super Striker of the Season. In total, he picked up ₹40 lakh in prize money and a car.

On the bowling side, Gujarat Titans' Kagiso Rabada finished with the Purple Cap after claiming 29 wickets.

Youngest Orange Cap in IPL History

The numbers alone don't quite capture what Suryavanshi pulled off. At 15, he became the youngest player in IPL history to win the Orange Cap — an achievement that will sit in the record books regardless of what follows in his career.

The teenager was already among the tournament's most watched players heading into the season. By the end of it, he had cleared every expectation.

'Learned to Play Under Pressure'

When handed the Orange Cap on the night, Suryavanshi spoke with a composure that belied his age. He said he had spent the season learning to read situations and adjust, rather than attacking every delivery on instinct.

"This season I learned how to play in pressure matches," he said. "Also, how to change my game according to the situation. You cannot play every match in the same mode. You have to read the game situation and bat according to the need. I learned this deeply in the playoff matches."

It is the kind of reflection that tends to come from players a decade older. The playoff run, by his own account, was where the real education happened.

Eyes on a Long International Career

Suryavanshi was direct about where his focus lies beyond the IPL. Asked what he takes from this season, he spoke about fitness, longevity, and the demands of playing for India over a sustained period.

"I want to play cricket for a long time for my country and my team. For this, I will have to work a lot on my fitness and avoid injuries," he said. He added that he trusts his natural game above all else — and that when he sees a ball he can attack, he attacks it with full force.

He ended on a line that drew smiles from those around him. When probed further about his recovery routines and physical conditioning, he said with a grin: "Sir, I am not drinking milk right now."

IPL 2026 Individual Awards — Full List

• Orange Cap (Most Runs): Vaibhav Suryavanshi — 776 runs

• Purple Cap (Most Wickets): Kagiso Rabada — 29 wickets

• Most Valuable Player: Vaibhav Suryavanshi

• Emerging Player of the Season: Vaibhav Suryavanshi

• Super Striker of the Season: Vaibhav Suryavanshi

With RCB retaining the title and Suryavanshi already rewriting age-based benchmarks, the conversation heading into the next season will be less about whether he belongs at this level — and more about how far he can go.

Rajasthan teenager becomes youngest Orange Cap winner; RCB's ₹20 crore prize money falls short of Kohli's own salary

A Night Ahmedabad Won't Forget

Royal Challengers Bangalore completed a remarkable back-to-back IPL title defence on Sunday night, defeating Gujarat Titans by five wickets in a high-stakes final at Ahmedabad. But if the trophy belonged to RCB, the evening's individual spotlight fell almost entirely on one 15-year-old from Rajasthan.

Vaibhav Suryavanshi walked away with five awards — Orange Cap, Most Valuable Player, Emerging Player of the Season, Super Striker of the Season, and one additional honour — collecting ₹40 lakh in prize money and a car in the process. For a teenager still in school, it was the kind of night that tends to rewrite careers before they've properly begun.

Youngest to Lift the Orange Cap

Suryavanshi finished the season with 776 runs, making him the youngest player in IPL history to win the Orange Cap. The record had long been considered the domain of seasoned campaigners. That a 15-year-old broke it — and did so convincingly — underlines just how dramatically the tournament's competitive landscape has shifted.

His MVP award places him in elite company. Previous winners have almost always been established internationals. Suryavanshi now sits alongside them.

Rabada Claims Purple Cap

On the bowling front, Gujarat Titans' Kagiso Rabada claimed the Purple Cap with 29 wickets across the season — a tally that, on another year, might have drawn more attention. The South African pacer was Gujarat's standout performer, even as his side fell short in the final.

RCB's Prize Money: Less Than One Player's Salary

The numbers around RCB's championship earnings make for an interesting conversation. The franchise received ₹20 crore as winning prize money — a significant sum by any standard, except when placed next to the salary of their most celebrated player. Virat Kohli earned ₹21 crore for IPL 2026, meaning the champion team's prize pot was actually smaller than what their star batter took home individually.

Runners-up Gujarat Titans received ₹12.5 crore.

Patidar Enters Rare Company

RCB captain Rajat Patidar became only the third captain in IPL history to successfully defend the title, joining MS Dhoni and Rohit Sharma in that exclusive bracket. It is a distinction that tends to age well.

The Road to Three

With two titles now, RCB trail Kolkata Knight Riders — three-time winners — by one. Mumbai Indians and Chennai Super Kings remain the benchmark at five each. RCB's consecutive triumphs suggest they are building towards that conversation, though the IPL has a habit of humbling teams that get ahead of themselves.

For now, the franchise and its long-suffering fanbase will take the moment. Two in a row is no accident.

The 57th match of IPL 2026 promises a thrilling contest as Royal Challengers Bengaluru (RCB) take on Kolkata Knight Riders (KKR) at the Shahid Veer Narayan Singh International Stadium in Raipur. The match will begin at 7:30 PM, and both teams enter this clash with very different goals—RCB aiming to confirm a playoff spot, while KKR are fighting to stay alive in the tournament.

RCB currently sit at the top of the points table with 14 points, and a win in this match could virtually secure their place in the playoffs. Their campaign this season has been strong and consistent, led by a balanced performance from both batting and bowling units. On the other hand, KKR are placed in a difficult position with 9 points from 10 matches, sitting in the lower half of the table. Another defeat could end their playoff hopes, making this a must-win encounter for them.

Historically, KKR have had the upper hand in this rivalry. Out of 35 matches played between the two teams, Kolkata have won 20 times, while Bengaluru have won 15. However, RCB had the last laugh in the previous season’s encounter. This will be the 36th meeting between the two sides, and for the first time in IPL 2026, they will face each other.

RCB’s Strong Season but Middle-Order Concerns

RCB have shown impressive form this season, but their batting consistency remains a concern. In their previous match against Mumbai Indians, they struggled while chasing a modest target of 167 runs. The team managed to cross the finish line thanks to Krunal Pandya’s crucial half-century and a late finishing effort, including a vital six from Bhuvneshwar Kumar.

Despite these struggles, RCB’s batting strength has largely revolved around Virat Kohli, who has been in excellent form. He is the team’s leading run-scorer with 379 runs in 11 matches, continuing to anchor the innings with stability and experience. However, captain Rajat Patidar’s form has been a major worry, as he has failed to deliver in the last six matches, managing only one fifty and one decent score above 20. On the bowling front, RCB have found strong leadership in Bhuvneshwar Kumar, who is currently among the top wicket-takers of the season with 21 wickets. His ability to swing the ball early and control the death overs has been a key factor in RCB’s success.

KKR Rely on Spin Strength and Momentum

KKR, meanwhile, enter this match with renewed confidence after winning their last four games. Their bowling attack has been the biggest strength this season, especially the spin duo of Sunil Narine and Varun Chakaravarthy. Supporting them are pacers like Kartik Tyagi, Vaibhav Arora, and Anukul Roy, who have played crucial roles in maintaining pressure on opposition batters.

Kartik Tyagi has been KKR’s standout bowler with 13 wickets, while the team’s bowling unit as a whole has performed well under pressure. If the Raipur pitch slows down as expected, KKR’s spinners could become a major threat for RCB’s batting lineup. However, KKR’s batting has been inconsistent. Captain Ajinkya Rahane has struggled to find form, but players like Rinku Singh, Cameron Green, and Finn Allen have shown flashes of brilliance in recent matches. Young batter Angkrish Raghuvanshi has been their most consistent run-scorer so far.

Pitch and Conditions

The Raipur pitch is expected to offer a balanced contest between bat and ball. In the early overs, fast bowlers are likely to get swing and extra bounce, making batting slightly challenging. As the game progresses, the pitch is expected to become easier for batting.

Out of the 7 IPL matches played at this venue, teams chasing have won 5 times, while teams batting first have won only 2 matches. One match ended in a tie, indicating that chasing has been the preferred option here. The weather in Raipur will remain hot and dry, with temperatures expected between 33°C and 36°C during the evening. With low humidity and almost no chance of rain, a full 40-over match is expected without interruptions.

Team Strategy and Pressure Situations

For RCB, the focus will be on building a strong top order around Virat Kohli and ensuring their middle order supports the finish. The team will also look to improve their captain’s form as they move closer to the playoffs. KKR, on the other hand, face a do-or-die situation. Their strategy will rely heavily on their spinners controlling the middle overs and restricting RCB’s scoring rate. Early wickets will be crucial for them to put pressure on Bengaluru’s batting lineup.

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Urvashi Rautela cheers for 'Jiju' Virat Kohli; backs RCB for IPL 2026 title

Actress Urvashi Rautela has sparked a social media buzz after jokingly referring to Virat Kohli as ‘Jiju’ while declaring her support for Royal Challengers Bangalore (RCB) in the ongoing IPL 2026 season.

The Bollywood actress, known for her frequent appearances at high-profile sporting events, recently sat down for an interview where she opened up about her cricket preferences and her upcoming professional projects. Amidst a tight schedule, Rautela confirmed that while she misses the early league stages, she makes it a point to catch the high-stakes action during the business end of the tournament.

The 'Jiju' comment goes viral

During a candid conversation with Miss Malini, the actress was asked about her pick for the current IPL season. Without hesitation, she threw her weight behind the Bengaluru-based franchise. "Virat Kohli is our jiju (brother-in-law). So why wouldn't we support RCB? Of course, we will," she remarked with a laugh.

The light-hearted comment quickly gained traction across fan pages, adding a bit of Bollywood glamour to the intense cricketing rivalry currently unfolding on the pitch. While Rautela didn't dive deep into technical analysis, her enthusiasm for the team was evident.

Believing in the RCB dream

For years, the 'Ee Sala Cup Namde' (This year the cup is ours) slogan has been a hallmark of the RCB fanbase, and it seems Urvashi is joining the chorus. When questioned if she believes the team can finally clinch the elusive silverware this year, she responded optimistically, asking, "Why not?"

Her comments come at a time when the defending champions are looking solid. Sources tracking the points table noted that RCB is currently perched comfortably in third place. With six wins out of ten games, the team has shown the kind of consistency that was often missing in previous years, despite four losses in the mid-stage of the tournament.

Missed collaboration with Kohli

Interestingly, the actress revealed that fans almost saw her sharing the screen with the former Indian captain. Rautela mentioned that a commercial ad shoot featuring her and Virat Kohli had been in the pipeline. However, due to unforeseen scheduling conflicts or logistical issues, the shoot could not materialize.

While she expressed slight regret over the missed opportunity, she remained focused on her current slate of releases, which includes a mix of digital and silver-screen projects.

Return to 'Inspector Avinash'

On the professional front, Urvashi is gearing up for the release of Inspector Avinash 2. Reprising her role as Poonam Mishra, she will be seen playing the wife of Randeep Hooda’s character. The first season garnered a steady following for its gritty portrayal of crime in Uttar Pradesh, and the second installment is one of the most anticipated digital releases of the month.

Production insiders suggest that the new season will dive deeper into the personal lives of the protagonists while maintaining the high-octane police procedural element. The series is slated to begin streaming on Jio Hotstar starting May 15.

Busy summer at the box office

Beyond the digital space, the actress is set for a massive theatrical release in June. She is part of the ensemble cast of Welcome to the Jungle, the third installment of the popular Welcome franchise. Starring alongside Akshay Kumar, the film is expected to be a major comedy tentpole for the summer, with a scheduled release date of June 26.

Rautela was last seen in the Telugu film Daku Maharaj, continuing her streak of balancing regional cinema with mainstream Bollywood projects. As the IPL 2026 moves toward the playoffs, expect to see more of the actress in the stands, rooting for her 'Jiju' and the RCB squad.

Kohli Effect Sweeps Lucknow: Tickets Hit ₹50,000 for RCB vs LSG Clash

Virat Kohli’s mere presence has once again turned an ordinary IPL fixture into a massive spectacle in the Uttar Pradesh capital. With the Royal Challengers Bangalore set to face Lucknow Super Giants on May 7 at Ekana Stadium, ticket prices have skyrocketed, and demand has reached fever pitch as fans scramble to watch the star batter in action.

On Tuesday evening, Kohli trained at the Ekana Stadium for nearly two hours, drawing crowds of eager supporters who waited outside despite restricted entry. The veteran looked in excellent touch, smashing several sixes and spending considerable time against spin bowlers before wrapping up with fitness drills. 

Kohli’s Practice Session Steals the Spotlight

The practice session, held between 5 PM and 8 PM, saw Kohli open up in the nets. After an initial warm-up, he faced both pace and spin for about an hour, displaying the aggression and timing that have defined his season. He was later seen engaged in a long discussion with head coach Andy Flower about the pitch conditions. Kohli also shared tips with LSG pacer Bhuvneshwar Kumar during the session.

Fans began gathering as soon as word spread of RCB’s arrival. When the team bus reached the venue under tight security, supporters chanted “Virat-Virat” and held up posters, desperate for even a fleeting glimpse of their idol. Many left disappointed, but the buzz only grew stronger.

Ticket Prices Soar Amid Unprecedented Demand

Online ticket prices for the May 7 encounter now range from ₹2,000 to as high as ₹50,000 — the highest for any match in Lucknow this season. Earlier games saw tickets priced between ₹1,000 and ₹25,000. Reports indicate brokers and touts are selling tickets at several times the face value, reflecting the massive surge in interest.

Among the nine ticket categories, the Rs 6,000 South VIP Terrace has seen the highest demand, followed closely by the East and West Stands priced at Rs 2,000. Experts have already dubbed the match a “mega show,” with expectations that it could set a new attendance record at Ekana this season. 

Fans Coming to See King Kohli

On paper, it is LSG versus RCB, but for many in Lucknow, the real draw is Virat Kohli. The “Kohli effect” is clearly visible both inside and outside the stadium as well as on digital platforms. Youngsters gathered in large numbers outside Ekana, underscoring the veteran’s enduring popularity even as the home team struggles.

Kohli’s Form Fuels RCB Hopes

Kohli has been the cornerstone of RCB’s batting this season, amassing 379 runs in nine matches at an impressive average of 54.14 and a strike rate of 165.50. In the previous meeting between the two sides on April 15 in Bengaluru, he scored a quick 49 off 34 balls to help RCB secure a five-wicket victory. Lucknow fans are now hoping to witness a bigger knock from his bat on Thursday.

LSG Struggle at the Bottom of the Table

The home side, meanwhile, finds itself in a difficult position. LSG sits at the bottom of the IPL points table with just two wins from nine matches and seven losses. The team suffered a heavy defeat to Mumbai Indians on Monday, further denting their playoff prospects. 

Batting has been a major concern, with only Mitchell Marsh (256 runs), Aiden Markram (224), and captain Rishabh Pant (204) crossing the 200-run mark. Key performers from previous seasons, such as Nicholas Pooran and Ayush Badoni, have failed to deliver. While pacers like Prince Yadav and Mohsin Khan have shown promise, the bowling unit has lacked consistency.

The team returned to Lucknow on Tuesday, hoping to turn things around in front of their home crowd. However, the spotlight remains firmly on Kohli.

Excitement Builds for May 7 Showdown

With less than 24 hours to go, excitement in Lucknow is palpable. Security arrangements are expected to be tight, and authorities are bracing for a large turnout. Whether LSG can arrest their slide or RCB, led by Kohli’s form, continues its charge, one thing is certain — the stands at Ekana Stadium are likely to be filled with fans chanting for the King.

The dusty roads of Kulana village in Jhajjar were transformed into a sea of tri-color today as the community gathered to welcome their local hero, Kanishk Chauhan. The star all-rounder, fresh from India’s record-breaking sixth Under-19 World Cup triumph in Zimbabwe, returned home to an atmosphere reminiscent of Diwali.

With food prepared for over 6,000 people and a guest list featuring prominent political figures, the celebration marks the arrival of a player many are calling the next big thing in Indian cricket.

A Match-Winning Performance in the Final

Kanishk Chauhan's homecoming follows his "game-changer" performance in the U-19 World Cup final against England. When India needed a late-order flourish, Kanishk delivered a blistering 37 runs off just 20 balls, including three fours and a towering six. His 18-run onslaught in the final over pushed India to a record total of 411.

His contributions weren't limited to the bat. Kanishk's disciplined off-break bowling saw him claim the crucial wicket of England’s captain, Thomas, effectively breaking the opposition's momentum and securing a 100-run victory for the Blue Brigade.

15 Years of Grit: From Sirsa to Global Glory

Behind the sudden fame lies 15 years of rigorous dedication. Born on September 26, 2006, Kanishk’s journey began at the age of four in a Ghaziabad academy. His talent was so evident that in 2014, his family relocated from Jhajjar to Sirsa so he could train at the world-class Shah Satnam Ji Stadium.

His mother, Sarita Chauhan, who once harbored dreams of becoming a cricketer herself, was visibly emotional during the ceremony.

"It wasn't just my dream; it was his destiny. To see the whole country proud of my son is the greatest reward a mother could ask for," she said.

Key Career Milestones:

• International Debut (2024): First break against England where he was named 'Best All-rounder of the Series.'

• Asia Cup Heroics: Awarded 'Player of the Match' against Pakistan after scoring 46 runs and taking 3 wickets.

• World Cup Impact: Consistent all-round performance leading to India’s 2026 title.

Next Stop: Royal Challengers Bangalore (RCB)

The celebrations in Kulana aren't just for the World Cup; they are also for Kanishk's upcoming debut in the IPL 2026. During the mini-auction held in Abu Dhabi on December 16, 2025, Royal Challengers Bangalore (RCB) secured the young all-rounder for 30 lakh rupees.

Kanishk is now set to trade his India U-19 jersey for the iconic red and gold of RCB. Fans are already eager to see him perform at the M. Chinnaswamy Stadium, where his aggressive batting and tactical spin are expected to thrive.

Why This Matters for Haryana Sports

The grand reception for Kanishk Chauhan underscores the rising influence of rural Haryana in the global cricketing landscape. With thousands attending the feast and local leaders in attendance, the message is clear: the path from the farmlands of Jhajjar to the international stadium is open for the next generation of athletes.

As the village prepares for a celebratory Jagran tonight, Kanishk stands as a symbol of perseverance, proving that a decade and a half of "rigorous training" can indeed turn a village boy into a national icon.