sports24x7.in

Tag: Indian sports news

  • IPL 2026: CSK vs KKR in a bidding war for this Proteas cricketer!

    IPL 2026: CSK vs KKR in a bidding war for this Proteas cricketer!

    As the IPL 2026 auction approaches, speculation continues to rise. A major bidding war may erupt this time over South Africa’s experienced batter David Miller. Already in India for a five-match T20 series, Miller wants to prove in this series that his reputation as a “finisher” is still intact.

    নিলামে এই প্রোটিয়া ক্রিকেটারের জন্য বিডিং ওয়ারে CSK vs KKR!

     

    Lucknow Super Giants did not retain him, so Miller has entered his name in this year’s auction pool. At this moment, former Indian cricketer Aakash Chopra mentioned on his YouTube channel that multiple teams might go after Miller.

    Aakash Chopra said, “This is a very important series for David Miller. Even though Lucknow released him, he is still a quality cricketer. In today’s IPL, almost every team needs a finisher who can bat at No. 6 or 7. From Chennai Super Kings to Kolkata Knight Riders.”

    He added, “Delhi Capitals, Rajasthan Royals, and even Miller’s old team Gujarat Titans will be looking for a backup overseas batter. So there is a very high chance that Miller will be sold for a big price.”

    A total of 1,390 players registered for the IPL 2026 auction. From that list, 350 players have been shortlisted—240 Indians and 110 overseas players. Across the 10 franchises, 77 slots are still open, including 31 spots reserved exclusively for overseas players. Naturally, the demand for established finishers like Miller is sky-high.

    David Miller’s recent form and vast experience have made him one of the major attractions in the auction. As Chopra suggested, several teams are keeping an eye on him. If CSK, KKR, Delhi, Rajasthan, or even Gujarat decide to bid for him, it would come as no surprise.

  • IPL 2026: These Star Players on RCB’s Target List for Mini-Auction!

    IPL 2026: These Star Players on RCB’s Target List for Mini-Auction!

    Royal Challengers Bengaluru (RCB) enter the IPL 2026 mini-auction (IPL 2026) with a calm and calculated strategy after back-to-back successful seasons. The defending champions have retained their core group of 17 players, including Virat Kohli, Phil Salt, Josh Hazlewood, and captain Rajat Patidar. Their approach isn’t to overhaul the squad but to strengthen specific departments where improvement is needed.

    নিলামের এই তারকাদের টার্গেট করছে চ্যাম্পিয়ন RCB!

     
    With English all-rounder Liam Livingstone and South African pacer Lungi Ngidi being released, RCB now have an additional ₹16.40 crore in their purse. Using this budget, the franchise aims to fill eight vacant slots, including two overseas positions.
     

    Where Does RCB Need Strengthening?

    1. Overseas Strike Pacer (Top Priority)

    Despite having Josh Hazlewood and Nuwan Thushara in their pace attack, both have limitations—Hazlewood’s workload management and Thushara’s lack of experience. This makes a world-class overseas strike pacer RCB’s biggest requirement.

    The best-suited option is Anrich Nortje (released by DC). His 145+ km/h pace and aggressive bowling make him deadly on Bengaluru’s batting-friendly pitches.
    Another strong choice is Gerald Coetzee (released by GT), who can serve as a long-term backup for Hazlewood.
    To strengthen death bowling, RCB may also consider bringing back Mustafizur Rahman.

    2. Indian Middle-Order / Finisher (Domestic Balance)

    Despite a stable top order, RCB need a strong Indian middle-order batter capable of playing spin and finishing games—especially since their overseas slots are limited.

    The premium option is Venkatesh Iyer (released by KKR). A left-handed power-hitter who can bat at No. 3 or No. 4 and contribute with part-time pace.
    A more realistic and budget-friendly option is Mahipal Lomror, whom RCB may consider bringing back. He is a left-handed batter who can also bowl useful leg-spin.
    RCB may also take a bold call by targeting Prithvi Shaw.

    3. Wicket-Taking Spin Option

    Even with Krunal Pandya and Suyash Sharma retained, RCB lack a high-impact, wicket-taking specialist spinner—the missing link in their bowling lineup.

    The top target in this category is Ravi Bishnoi (released by LSG), known for his consistent strike ability in the middle overs.
    A reunion with Wanindu Hasaranga is also a realistic possibility.

    4. Overseas All-Rounder (Livingstone’s Replacement)

    With Liam Livingstone released, the franchise needs a versatile overseas all-rounder. The ideal option is Michael Bracewell (released by DC), who offers left-handed batting in the middle order along with economical off-spin—perfect for squad balance.

    RCB are not looking for dramatic changes; instead, they aim to sharpen their championship squad by filling specific gaps with the right players. Their strategy for the IPL 2026 mini-auction is calculated, not aggressive. Now it remains to be seen whether this structured approach helps them achieve repeated success in the upcoming season.

  • IPL 2026: CSK Preparing an Aggressive Strategy to Target These Players in Mega Auction!

    IPL 2026: CSK Preparing an Aggressive Strategy to Target These Players in Mega Auction!

    Five-time IPL champions Chennai Super Kings (CSK) are heading into a major squad overhaul ahead of the IPL 2026 Mega Auction. With the departure of three key players—Ravindra Jadeja, Sam Curran, and the retired Ravichandran Ashwin—the franchise has several significant gaps to fill. Although CSK secured one of their top targets, Sanju Samson, through a trade with Rajasthan Royals, the upcoming auction still poses multiple challenges.

    নিলামে এই ক্রিকেটারদের দলে টানতে পরিকল্পনায় ব্যস্ত CSK!

     

    With a remaining purse of ₹43.40 crore, the Super Kings are expected to take an aggressive approach, focusing on strengthening their batting, all-round abilities, spin department, and death bowling.

    1. Overseas Finisher & Power All-Rounder – Top Priority

    The exits of Jadeja and Curran have left a major void in the middle and lower-middle order. CSK urgently needs a powerful overseas finisher or an all-rounder capable of handling multiple roles.

    Liam Livingstone (Released by RCB)
    A destructive hitter who also offers useful leg-spin and off-spin—perfect for filling two roles at once.

    David Miller (Released by LSG)
    One of the most reliable death-overs finishers in the IPL with calmness and experience.

    Cameron Green (Released by RCB)
    Expected to be one of the most expensive buys, but his long-term value as a fast-bowling all-rounder makes him an attractive option.

    2. Frontline Indian Spinner – Crucial for Chepauk

    With the Jadeja–Ashwin era ending, CSK’s spin department looks thin. On the spin-friendly Chepauk pitch, a top-quality Indian spinner is indispensable.

    Ravi Bishnoi (Released by LSG)
    A consistent wicket-taking leg-spinner with the ability to win matches.

    Rahul Chahar (Released by SRH)
    Experienced, dependable, and proven in the T20 format.

    3. Overseas Fast Bowler – Death Overs Specialist

    After releasing Matheesha Pathirana, CSK’s death-overs bowling has become uncertain. Their primary strategy will be to re-buy Pathirana at a lower price.
    If that doesn’t work:

    Gerald Coetzee (Released by GT)
    A fiery, aggressive pacer capable of taking wickets with raw pace.

    Anrich Nortje (Released by DC)
    A seasoned international fast bowler known for his express speed.

    4. Indian Batting & All-Round Depth

    To strengthen domestic batting depth and add flexibility, CSK may target:

    Venkatesh Iyer (Released by KKR)
    Can bat anywhere from opening to middle order, plus useful medium pace.

    Prithvi Shaw (Released by DC)
    A fearless attacking opener who can also serve as a strong backup option.

    Conclusion

    The IPL 2026 Mega Auction is not just a talent hunt for CSK—it is the foundation for building their next era. With Sanju Samson already secured, the focus now shifts to strong all-rounders, quality spinners, and reliable death-bowling specialists. And with a hefty purse remaining, CSK might produce some major surprises on auction day.

  • India vs South Africa : India Thrash South Africa by 101 Runs in Cuttack T20I

    India vs South Africa : India Thrash South Africa by 101 Runs in Cuttack T20I

    India delivered a sensational performance in the first T20I (India vs South Africa) of the five-match series against South Africa at Barabati Stadium, Cuttack, defeating the Proteas by a massive 101-run margin. Batting first, India posted a formidable total of 175/6 in 20 overs, powered by Hardik Pandya’s explosive 59 off 28 balls.

    ভারতের বোলিং টর্নেডোয় ধরাশায়ী প্রোটিয়া দুর্গ

     

    Despite early setbacks with Shubman Gill (4) and Suryakumar Yadav (12) falling cheaply, India recovered through key contributions from Tilak Varma (26), Axar Patel (23), and Pandya, whose innings proved decisive. Shivam Dube (11) and Jitesh Sharma (10*) provided valuable support in the final overs, helping India set a challenging target.

    In response, South Africa’s batting lineup crumbled completely, being bowled out for just 74 in 12.3 overs—marking their lowest-ever T20I total. Arshdeep Singh (2/14), Jasprit Bumrah (2/17), Varun Chakravarthy (2/19), Axar Patel (2/7), Hardik Pandya (1/16), and Shivam Dube (1/1) shared the wickets, while Quinton de Kock was dismissed for a duck in the first over, setting the tone for the Proteas’ collapse.

    The match also saw Jasprit Bumrah reach a major milestone, claiming his 100th T20I wicket and becoming the first Indian bowler to take at least 100 international wickets across all three formats.

    This dominant win gives Suryakumar Yadav-led India a 1-0 lead in the five-match series. The second T20I will also be played at Cuttack, giving the hosts an excellent start in the contest.

  • Cheptegei, Kebede Lead 10th Tata Steel World 25K Kolkata Race

    Cheptegei, Kebede Lead 10th Tata Steel World 25K Kolkata Race

    The landmark 10th edition of the Tata Steel World 25K Kolkata 2025 is set for a blockbuster showdown as more than 23,000 runners from across the globe gear up for the World Athletics Gold Label Road Race on Sunday, 21 December. Organised by Procam International, this year’s event promises one of the strongest elite fields in its decade-long history, celebrating #ADecadeOfDifference in the City of Joy.

    Headlining the men’s field is Uganda’s Double Olympic and Triple World Champion Joshua Cheptegei, who will make his much-awaited debut over the 25K distance. The 29-year-old, who holds multiple world records on the track and roads, expressed enthusiasm for racing in India again, saying, “India is one of my favourite destinations. I want to give my best in my maiden venture in Kolkata.”

    In a major boost to competition, organisers have announced a USD 25,000 bonus for any athlete breaking the existing world record of 1:11:08. The total prize purse stands at USD 142,214, with equal prize money for men and women. The top three finishers in both categories will receive USD 15,000, USD 10,000, and USD 7,000 respectively, along with a USD 5,000 event record bonus.

    Joining Cheptegei in the men’s lineup is Tanzania’s Alphonce Felix Simbu, fresh from his dramatic World Championships Marathon victory in Tokyo, where he edged Germany’s Amanal Petros by just three-hundredths of a second. Ethiopia’s Haymanot Alew, who recorded a blistering 2:03:31 for third place at the 2024 Berlin Marathon, and Lesotho’s Tebello Ramakongoana, runner-up at this year’s Xiamen Marathon, further strengthen the competitive field. The roster also includes a strong Kenyan and Ethiopian contingent featuring Collins Kipkorir, Debebe Teka, Tamru Shifera, and emerging talents such as Ayana Geneti and Niguse Abera.

    In the women’s category, defending champion and former world record holder Sutume Asefa Kebede of Ethiopia returns to Kolkata aiming for a hat-trick. Kebede, who set the 25K world record in Berlin in 2015 and shattered it again in Kolkata in 2023, seeks redemption after a disappointing 27th-place finish at this year’s World Championships in Tokyo. “I am thrilled to make my third appearance in Kolkata. With an exciting field to challenge me, I expect to improve my timings this year,” she said.

    Kebede will face stiff competition from compatriot and former Kolkata winner Degitu Azimeraw, Uganda’s Olympic finalist Sarah Chelangat, and Kenya’s Agnes Keino. Rising Ethiopian talents, including Demilew Zemenaw and Ergat Heshe, add depth to the field.

    Vivek Singh, Joint Managing Director of Procam International, stated, “With world-class athletes such as Joshua Cheptegei and Alphonce Felix Simbu headlining the elite field, Kolkata is poised for an exciting and fast race later this month.”

    With top-tier competition, record-breaking incentives, and overwhelming participation, the 10th edition promises to be a milestone in the event’s illustrious journey.

  • IPL 2026: Even After Breaking Records, This Star’s Salary Cannot Exceed ₹18 Crore! New IPL Rule

    IPL 2026: Even After Breaking Records, This Star’s Salary Cannot Exceed ₹18 Crore! New IPL Rule

    Australian all-rounder Cameron Green, who is being targeted heavily by both Kolkata Knight Riders and Chennai Super Kings is expected to attract one of the highest bids in the IPL 2026 auction. However, according to a new rule, no overseas player can be bought for more than ₹18 crore.

    রেকর্ড ভাঙলেও এই তারকার পারিশ্রমিক ১৮ কোটির বেশি নয়! IPL নতুন বিধান

     

    In the 2023 IPL auction, KKR bought Mitchell Starc for a record ₹24.75 crore, while Pat Cummins was purchased by Sunrisers Hyderabad for ₹20.5 crore. At that time, Sam Curran’s ₹18.5 crore deal created relatively less buzz.

    Cameron Green was bought by Mumbai Indians for ₹17.5 crore in 2023. The following year, he was traded to Royal Challengers Bengaluru (RCB) for the same amount.
    Across the 2023 and 2024 IPL seasons, Green played 29 matches, scoring 707 runs at a strike rate of 153.70.
    For the 2026 auction, he has listed himself with the highest base price of ₹2 crore.

    New “Maximum Fee” Rule

    Under the new rule, the maximum auction price for any overseas player cannot exceed ₹18 crore. If a franchise bids more than ₹18 crore, the extra amount will be deposited into the BCCI’s Player Welfare Fund, rather than going to the player.

    This rule applies particularly to mini-auctions, so that foreign players cannot exploit supply-demand imbalances to earn excessively high amounts.

    An IPL source clarified:

    “If the highest bid in a mega auction is ₹20 crore, then the maximum limit for the next mini-auction will be ₹18 crore.”

    “If the highest bid in a mega auction is ₹16 crore, then the mini-auction limit will also be ₹16 crore.”

    Indian Players Not Affected

    This rule does not apply to Indian players.
    Indian players will receive the full auction amount, and the sum will be fully deducted from the franchise’s purse.

    Auction Details

    A total of 77 slots will be filled this year, including 31 overseas slots. The list of 16 capped Indian players is still being processed based on franchise preferences.

    The auction will be held on 16 December, where the combination of Cameron Green’s high demand and the new salary cap rule is expected to be one of the biggest talking points for IPL fans.

  • India vs South Africa: ‘Virat’ Surprise in India’s Probable XI! Watch Match for Free on This App

    India vs South Africa: ‘Virat’ Surprise in India’s Probable XI! Watch Match for Free on This App

    Ahead of the T20 series against South Africa (India vs South Africa), the Indian team faces a pleasant yet tough selection puzzle. With the 2026 T20 World Cup preparations in mind, head coach Gautam Gambhir and the team management are reportedly considering several bold decisions. The biggest dilemmas appear to be Jitesh Sharma vs Sanju Samson and Harshit Rana vs Arshdeep Singh.

    ভারতের সম্ভাব্য একাদশে ‘বিরাট’ চমক! এই অ্যাপে ফ্রিতে দেখুন ম্যাচ

    Gill–Abhishek Opening Pair Almost Confirmed

    Shubman Gill, returning from injury, is set to open alongside Abhishek Sharma. Though Sanju Samson prefers opening, Gill is being preferred for his anchoring ability. Abhishek will take on the aggressive role. Captain and world No. 1 T20 batter Suryakumar Yadav will bat at his favorite No. 3 position. Tilak Varma is expected to be the priority at No. 4, adding left-handed balance to the lineup.

    As wicketkeeper, Jitesh Sharma is currently ahead of Sanju. The reason is simple — Jitesh is explosive from ball one and is a specialist finisher, a role in which India lacks options. If Sanju plays, he would need to come down the order, which is not his natural position.

    Hardik Pandya’s Return Strengthens Team Balance

    Hardik Pandya’s comeback provides the perfect balance — destructive batting at No. 5 and four overs of medium-fast bowling. After him comes the reliable all-rounder Axar Patel.

    In pace bowling, Jasprit Bumrah will lead the attack. Arshdeep Singh’s experience helps his case, but young Harshit Rana’s speed and aggression make him a strong contender. With Hardik available as an additional pacer, Harshit could comfortably bowl all four overs if selected.

    In the spin department, Kuldeep Yadav will partner with mystery spinner Varun Chakravarthy, a combination that could trouble South Africa’s middle order.

    India’s Probable XI :

    Shubman Gill (Vice-captain), Abhishek Sharma, Suryakumar Yadav (Captain), Tilak Varma, Hardik Pandya, Axar Patel, Jitesh Sharma, (Wicketkeeper), Kuldeep Yadav, Arshdeep Singh / Harshit Rana, Jasprit Bumrah

    Match Details

    Toss Time: 6:30 PM (IST)

    Match Start: 7:00 PM (IST)

    Live Telecast: Star Sports Network

    Live Streaming: JioCinema / Hotstar app & website

  • IPL 2026: A Fortune Awaits This Star in Auction CSK vs KKR!

    IPL 2026: A Fortune Awaits This Star in Auction CSK vs KKR!

    Cricket fans are now fully focused on the IPL 2026 auction. The player who has become the main attraction of the auction is none other than Australia’s Cameron Green. Two major franchises, Chennai Super Kings (CSK) and Kolkata Knight Riders (KKR), are entering this season with the biggest budgets—₹43.4 crore and ₹64.3 crore, respectively. This means both teams have the financial capacity to bid big for him.

    নিলামে এই তারকার জন্য টাকার ঝুলি খুলবে CSK vs KKR!

     

    KKR’s primary aim is to strengthen their squad after Andre Russell’s release by adding a powerful overseas hitter and a fast-bowling option. On the other hand, Chennai is mainly focused on rebuilding the team balance. They are looking for a player who can perform in the top order and also provide depth with medium-fast bowling.

    Cameron Green fits both requirements perfectly. His all-round abilities and world-class performances have made him the “most valuable” target of the auction. With a base price of ₹2 crore, a fierce bidding war is expected for this pace-bowling all-rounder. Experts predict that his price could cross the ₹15 crore mark.

    Cricket fans are buzzing with excitement. Who will win this auction battle—CSK or KKR? This December auction is surely set to be an electrifying battlefield.

  • IPL 2026: Dominating with Dot Balls Before the Auction, This Cricketer Is Raising His Value

    IPL 2026: Dominating with Dot Balls Before the Auction, This Cricketer Is Raising His Value

    For Bangladeshi cricketers, the Indian Premier League (IPL 2026) has felt like an invisible wall in recent years. Even when their names appear in the auction list, they often go unsold — a familiar scenario for stars like Shakib Al Hasan and Mustafizur Rahman. And even if they do get picked, there remains uncertainty over whether they will be allowed to play the full season. Amid all this, Mustafizur Rahman seems to have sent out a strong message ahead of the mini-auction by boosting his own value with impressive performances.

    নিলামের আগে ডট-বোলের দাপট দেখিয়ে দর হাঁকাচ্ছেন এই ক্রিকেটার

    The IPL mini-auction is set to take place on 16 December. Two Bangladeshi stars — Shakib Al Hasan (base price ₹1 crore) and Mustafizur Rahman (base price ₹2 crore) — have registered their names. Last season, both were in the auction pool but neither secured a team. Shakib was not called even in the second round. Mustafizur, however, eventually entered the tournament as an injury replacement for the Delhi Capitals.

    This time, though, the story looks a bit different. Right before the auction, Mustafizur has been showcasing glimpses of his old magic in the ILT20, held in Saudi Arabia. Playing for the Delhi Capitals’ franchise team, he has taken four wickets in two matches and has become the centre of discussion for his exceptional dot-ball bowling.

    In the opening match against the Gulf Giants, Mustafizur announced his return to rhythm — delivering four overs for just 26 runs and picking up two wickets. The highlight: 13 dot balls. In the next match, against Abu Dhabi Knight Riders, his cutters and variations looked even sharper. He took two wickets again, conceding 22 runs in three overs, along with 11 dot balls.

    In total, across 42 balls bowled in two matches, 24 deliveries resulted in no runs — an outstanding statistic for any bowler in T20 cricket.

    Beyond dot balls, another major strength of Mustafizur is his ability to bowl effectively in both the powerplay and death overs. His cutters, deceptive slower balls, and wicket-targeting lines all seem to have returned to their best. As a result, many believe several IPL franchises will be keeping a close eye on him.

    However, one question still remains: Will he be allowed to play the full IPL season? Historically, the Bangladesh Cricket Board has scheduled international series during almost every IPL season. Additionally, players often receive NOCs only for limited periods. Because of this, franchises hesitate to invest in Bangladeshi players. If a similar situation arises this year, Mustafizur and Shakib could once again find themselves at a disadvantage.

  • IPL 2026: Shah Rukh Khan’s KKR Ready to Splash Big Money on These Three Star Bowlers!

    IPL 2026: Shah Rukh Khan’s KKR Ready to Splash Big Money on These Three Star Bowlers!

    As soon as the IPL retention window closed, all eyes shifted towards the upcoming IPL 2026 Mini Auction. Kolkata Knight Riders (KKR), owned by Shah Rukh Khan, are entering the auction with the highest purse value, giving them the opportunity to rebuild their squad after a disappointing last season. With a strong intent to revamp the bowling unit, the franchise has reportedly shortlisted a few top-quality bowlers ahead of the auction.

    নিলামে এই তিন ক্রিকেটারের জন্য টাকা ঝুলি খুলতে পারে শাহরুখের দল!

    A Nightmare Season in 2025 Pushes KKR Towards Major Changes

    The 2025 IPL season turned out to be a nightmare for KKR. Under the leadership of Ajinkya Rahane, the team lost several easy matches and ended the league stage in eighth place. For a three-time champion, such a season was extremely hard to digest. Determined not to repeat past mistakes, the management is now focused on strengthening the bowling department for IPL 2026.

    1. Matheesha Pathirana – Released by CSK, Now on KKR’s Radar

    According to sources, Sri Lankan pace sensation Matheesha Pathirana is one of KKR’s top targets. After not being retained by CSK, the young yorker specialist is expected to attract heavy bidding in the auction. His accuracy, raw pace, and deadly death-over bowling could bring a new dimension to the KKR pace attack.

    2. Ravi Bishnoi – The Middle-Overs Wicket-Getter KKR Wants

    Another name strongly linked to KKR is Indian leg-spinner Ravi Bishnoi, who was surprisingly released from Sanjiv Goenka’s Lucknow franchise. Known for his consistent wicket-taking ability in the middle overs and deceptive googlies, Bishnoi is expected to be one of the hottest picks in the mini auction. KKR may even consider building their spin attack around him.

    3. Reece Topley – The Left-Arm Pacer to Replace Spencer Johnson?

    On November 15, KKR released left-arm pacer Spencer Johnson, creating a vacancy in the squad. To fill that gap, the franchise is eyeing England’s experienced all-rounder Reece Topley. Despite occasional injury concerns, Topley’s swing, bounce, and death-overs control make him an ideal fit for the team. His skill set could bring much-needed balance to KKR’s bowling lineup.

    Ahead of the mini auction, speculation is growing around these three bowlers—Matheesha Pathirana, Ravi Bishnoi, and Reece Topley. Determined to bounce back after last season’s struggles, Shah Rukh Khan and Juhi Chawla’s franchise are gearing up to rebuild a stronger, more balanced KKR squad.