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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.

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.

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.

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.

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.

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.

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.

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.

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.

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.

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.

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.

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.

Ravichandran Ashwin has lauded Rajasthan Royals' 15-year-old sensation Vaibhav Sooryavanshi, calling him a "box-office player" with the potential to represent India in all three formats. Despite RR's loss, Sooryavanshi impressed with his fearless batting, scoring 440 runs at a strike rate of 236.56 this IPL season.

Ravichandran Ashwin recounted a memorable moment from his early career when his exuberant celebration after dismissing MS Dhoni in the Challenger Trophy visibly irked the former captain. Ashwin explained his dream of taking Dhoni's wicket, which he believed would open doors for him at CSK. This pivotal moment indeed paved the way for his eventual success with the franchise.

Harbhajan Singh said Rohit Sharma’s earlier return from injury could have improved Mumbai Indians’ IPL 2026 campaign. Rohit’s match-winning knock against Lucknow Super Giants highlighted his importance to the side. Harbhajan felt MI lost crucial matches during Rohit’s absence but believes the team still has an outside chance of reaching the playoffs.

Millions in Asia, including India, China, and Thailand, face uncertainty over watching the FIFA World Cup 2026 due to delayed broadcast rights. Unfavorable late-night match timings and high costs are stalling deals, potentially impacting viewership. Experts, however, believe agreements will be reached, ensuring widespread access to the global football spectacle.

Sunil Gavaskar believes a resurgent Rohit Sharma's form could significantly impact the IPL 2026 playoff race. Sharma's explosive 84 against LSG showcased a renewed focus on batting deeper and leaving a bigger impact, potentially derailing multiple teams' qualification hopes. Gavaskar also noted Jasprit Bumrah's struggles, advising a return to basics.

KL Rahul is enjoying a stellar IPL 2026 season, leading Delhi Capitals in runs with 433 in 9 matches. He reflects on overcoming the 'Test specialist' tag to become an all-format player, emphasizing his pride in adapting to T20 demands, particularly maximising the Powerplay for his team.

Seven years after the controversial 'Mankading' incident with Jos Buttler, Ravichandran Ashwin defends his actions, stating he did nothing wrong and played to win. He also reflected on his IPL career, expressing regret over not winning a title with Rajasthan Royals despite a fulfilling stint.

IPL 2026 enters a crucial 'Revenge Week' with tightly packed standings. Punjab Kings lead, but top four spots are fiercely contested. Key rematches, including Rajasthan Royals vs Gujarat Titans and Royal Challengers Bengaluru vs Mumbai Indians, promise high drama and could significantly impact the playoff race. Old scores are set to be settled.

KL Rahul downplayed his personal milestone of surpassing MS Dhoni on the IPL all-time run-scorers list, emphasizing team success and trophies as his ultimate goal. Despite individual achievements, Rahul stated his primary focus remains on winning the IPL, aiming to match Dhoni's five championship titles.

KL Rahul lauded Rajasthan Royals' 15-year-old Vaibhav Sooryavanshi, highlighting his phenomenal rise as a testament to T20 cricket's evolution. Sooryavanshi's fearless approach and exceptional batting, including two centuries at a young age, showcase the new generation's aggressive mindset, a trend amplified by the IPL.

Harry Maguire believes Manchester United is on the right track under Michael Carrick, highlighting improved results and Champions League qualification hopes. He reflected on last season's struggles, emphasising the team's adaptation and renewed belief. Maguire also expressed excitement about extending his contract and the club's future.