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IPL 2026 has shattered all previous records, attracting over 1.1 billion viewers across TV and digital platforms. The league's thrilling unpredictability has fueled unprecedented fan engagement, with digital platforms showing significant growth. Regional language viewership has surged by an impressive 42%, highlighting the tournament's expanding appeal beyond major metros.

Sunrisers Hyderabad captain Pat Cummins revealed multiple bowling strategies are being prepared for Rajasthan Royals' teenage sensation Vaibhav Sooryavanshi ahead of the IPL 2026 Eliminator. The 15-year-old opener has been a revelation, shattering records with a staggering strike rate. Despite SRH winning both league encounters, Sooryavanshi's recent century makes him a significant threat.

Devdutt Padikkal lauded teenage sensation Vaibhav Sooryavanshi as a "rare talent," deeming any attempt to replicate his unique batting style "foolish." Sooryavanshi's explosive 93 off 38 balls made him the youngest to score 500+ T20 runs in a season, surpassing Padikkal's previous record. Both left-handers have been impactful players for their franchises.

JioHotstar and Colors are launching "Bhojpuri Bawaal," a unique 'follow reality' series offering an unfiltered look into the lives of Bhojpuri stars like Pawan Singh and Amrapali Dubey. This innovative format, devoid of tasks or eliminations, promises an intimate glimpse into their personal and professional journeys, capturing fame, family, and the relentless hustle behind superstardom for a national audience.

Zee Entertainment is making a significant comeback into sports broadcasting, planning to launch seven new channels under the 'Unite8 Sports' brand. This strategic move coincides with the ongoing negotiations for the 2026 FIFA World Cup broadcast rights in India, a major event where pricing disagreements have stalled a deal.

Gujarat Titans opener Sai Sudharsan shared his deep emotional ties to Chennai Super Kings ahead of their IPL 2026 clash. He fondly recalled idolizing CSK during his childhood, making his maiden IPL century against them in 2024 particularly special. Sudharsan, a consistent performer, continues his impressive run this season.

Padikkal, who made his IPL debut for RCB in 2020, said observing Kohli closely played a major role in his early development as a batter.

Teenage sensation Vaibhav Sooryavanshi's explosive 93 off 38 balls, including 10 sixes, kept Rajasthan Royals' playoff hopes alive. Former India all-rounder Irfan Pathan lauded the 15-year-old's maturity and off-side play, comparing his fear factor among bowlers to Chris Gayle's peak. Sooryavanshi is now threatening Gayle's IPL record of 59 sixes in a season.

Speculation is rife about MS Dhoni's potential return for Chennai Super Kings' crucial final home game against Sunrisers Hyderabad. However, Sunil Gavaskar has strongly dismissed the possibility, citing Dhoni's year-long absence from competitive cricket and the significant risk involved in a must-win encounter. Gavaskar believes Dhoni, a true team player, wouldn't disrupt the current winning combination.

Sunil Gavaskar has strongly criticized Riyan Parag's decision to give Donovan Ferreira the 18th over against Delhi Capitals, labeling it a 'suicidal move' that cost Rajasthan Royals the match. Gavaskar highlighted Ferreira's recent golden duck and the lack of pitch assistance, arguing that form and confidence should have dictated the bowling choice.

FIFA’s expanded 2026 World Cup could arrive in India without any official broadcaster despite YouTube becoming part of the tournament’s global streaming strategy for the first time. With rights negotiations collapsing, Prasar Bharati distancing itself from responsibility, and geo-restrictions limiting overseas streams, Indian fans increasingly face the prospect of relying on VPNs, piracy sites or unofficial watch parties to follow football’s biggest event.

Sunil Gavaskar lauded Virat Kohli's spectacular century, proving the enduring class of experienced players. Kohli's masterclass in chasing, his ninth IPL hundred, and becoming the fastest to 14,000 T20 runs silenced doubters. His innings highlighted his unparalleled ability to construct a chase, a feat few can match, reaffirming his legendary status.

Former India batter Mohammad Kaif believes spinner Varun Chakaravarthy's potential absence against RCB would be a significant boost for Bengaluru. Chakaravarthy's recent return to form has been crucial for KKR's winning streak, but an injury concern looms. Kaif highlighted Virat Kohli's comfort against faster spinners, suggesting his absence would benefit RCB.

Krunal Pandya continues to be a vital all-rounder for RCB in their IPL 2026 title defence, recently scoring a match-winning 73 despite severe cramps against Mumbai Indians. He also achieved his 100th IPL wicket and draws inspiration from Virat Kohli's unwavering intensity and dedication, having previously won Player of the Match in two IPL finals.

Royal Challengers Bengaluru secured a thrilling last-ball victory against Mumbai Indians, moving to the top of the IPL 2026 table. This win eliminated MI from playoff contention. Following the match, Sunil Gavaskar predicted a Punjab Kings vs. RCB final, suggesting MI should now focus on developing young talent.

IPL chairman Arun Dhumal tells TOI that other boards are starting leagues for revenue as bilaterals are not adding enough value, allays fears over depreciating media rights value next year, and maintains that BCCI will maintain good relations with boards after the Mustafizur Rahman fiasco.

Dinesh Karthik's high praise for Bhuvneshwar Kumar has resurfaced after the pacer's match-winning IPL 2026 performance. Kumar's stellar 4/23 against Mumbai Indians, followed by a crucial batting cameo, has reignited calls for his T20I return, with Ravichandran Ashwin backing the 'BringBackBhuvi' campaign. He currently leads the Purple Cap race.

Ravichandran Ashwin advocates for Bhuvneshwar Kumar's return to India's T20I squad following his stellar all-round display for RCB. Kumar's exceptional bowling, and a crucial six in the final over, impressed Ashwin, who highlighted his ability to perform under pressure. Kumar currently leads the Purple Cap race, showcasing consistent wicket-taking prowess.

Sanju Samson played a match-winning unbeaten knock of 87 runs. He led Chennai Super Kings to a comfortable eight-wicket victory against Delhi Capitals. Samson's composed innings, supported by Kartik Sharma, chased down the target with ease. This crucial win keeps CSK in contention for the IPL 2026 playoffs. Experts praised Samson's form and leadership.

Harbhajan Singh supports Jasprit Bumrah amidst a quiet IPL 2026. He points to the Mumbai Indians' bowling attack lacking confidence and relying too heavily on Bumrah. The team's overall belief and body language have also dropped significantly this season. A leader is needed to inspire the squad and change their fortunes on the field.