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Josh Hazlewood vs Mohammed Siraj: Comparing Their Numbers After 51 IPL Matches Ahead of the IPL 2026 Final
Josh Hazlewood vs Mohammed Siraj: Comparing Their Stats After 51 Matches Ahead of the IPL 2026 FinalThe IPL 2026 final is set to feature some of the world's best cricketers, and among them, two fast bowlers stand out for their consistency and match-winning abilities: Josh Hazlewood and Mohammed Siraj.Both pacers have played crucial roles for their respective franchises over the years. Known for their ability to strike with the new ball, maintain pressure during the middle overs, and deliver under pressure at the death, Hazlewood and Siraj have established themselves as two of the most reliable fast bowlers in T20 cricket.As the IPL 2026 final approaches, it is worth comparing their records after 51 IPL matches to understand who has had the greater impact.Josh Hazlewood's IPL JourneyHazlewood entered the IPL with a reputation as one of the world's premier Test bowlers. Over time, he successfully adapted his skills to the T20 format, using his height, bounce, and impeccable line and length to trouble batters.One of Hazlewood's biggest strengths is consistency. Unlike many T20 bowlers who rely heavily on variations, the Australian pacer often succeeds through accuracy and disciplined bowling.Across his IPL career, Hazlewood has delivered numerous match-winning spells, particularly in high-pressure situations. His ability to take wickets in the powerplay and restrict runs during crucial phases has made him a valuable asset.Mohammed Siraj's Rise in the IPLSiraj's IPL journey has been one of perseverance and growth. After initial struggles, the Indian speedster transformed himself into one of the most dependable bowlers in the tournament.His aggressive mindset, ability to swing the new ball, and improved control have helped him become a key performer. Siraj is particularly effective in the powerplay, where his movement off the seam often creates early breakthroughs.Over the years, he has also improved significantly in death-over bowling, making him a complete T20 fast bowler.Statistical Comparison After 51 MatchesWhile exact numbers may vary depending on the stage of IPL 2026, the comparison highlights several interesting trends:WicketsHazlewood has maintained an impressive wicket-taking rate.Siraj has consistently picked up wickets against top-order batters.Economy RateHazlewood generally enjoys a superior economy rate due to his accuracy.Siraj's attacking approach occasionally results in higher run concessions but also more breakthroughs.Bowling AverageHazlewood's disciplined style often translates into a strong bowling average.Siraj's average reflects his role as an attacking wicket-taker.Strike RateBoth bowlers have maintained competitive strike rates.Hazlewood's ability to force mistakes through relentless pressure remains one of his biggest strengths.Who Could Make the Difference in the Final?The IPL final often comes down to key moments, and both bowlers are capable of producing match-defining performances.Hazlewood's calm approach and ability to execute plans under pressure make him a dangerous opponent. Meanwhile, Siraj's energy, aggression, and knack for picking up crucial wickets can shift momentum in a matter of overs.The battle between these two elite pacers could play a decisive role in determining the outcome of the IPL 2026 final.Final VerdictComparing Josh Hazlewood and Mohammed Siraj after 51 IPL matches reveals two bowlers who have achieved success through different methods. Hazlewood relies on precision, consistency, and control, while Siraj combines aggression, swing, and attacking intent.Regardless of who holds the statistical advantage, both fast bowlers have proven their value at the highest level. As fans prepare for the IPL 2026 final, all eyes will be on these two pace spearheads as they look to deliver another memorable performance on cricket's biggest franchise stage.
Star Player Steps Down as Captain After Disastrous IPL 2026 Campaign: End of an Era?
The Indian Premier League has always been a tournament where success and failure are magnified under the spotlight. Captains often receive the most praise when their teams win and face the harshest criticism when results do not go their way. Following a disappointing IPL 2026 season, one of the league's star players has reportedly decided to step down from the captaincy, marking a significant turning point for both the player and the franchise.The decision comes after a campaign that fell far below expectations. Entering the season, the franchise was considered one of the strongest contenders for the playoffs. The squad featured experienced international stars, talented domestic players, and a coaching staff capable of challenging for the title. However, things never clicked on the field.A series of poor performances, tactical mistakes, and inconsistent displays resulted in one of the team's worst IPL campaigns in recent memory. As pressure mounted throughout the season, questions regarding leadership became increasingly common among fans and cricket experts.Now, with the captain stepping aside, the franchise faces a critical rebuilding phase ahead of IPL 2027.A Season to ForgetThe IPL 2026 campaign started with optimism. Fans believed their team had assembled the perfect squad capable of challenging for the championship.Unfortunately, the reality proved very different.The team struggled to maintain consistency from the opening weeks of the tournament. While there were occasional flashes of brilliance, they were often overshadowed by batting collapses, poor bowling performances, and missed opportunities in crucial moments.Several matches slipped away from winning positions, leaving supporters frustrated and raising concerns about decision-making under pressure.As losses accumulated, confidence within the squad appeared to decline. Momentum is vital in T20 cricket, and once the team entered a losing cycle, recovering became increasingly difficult.Leadership Under the MicroscopeWhenever a franchise underperforms, attention inevitably turns toward the captain.Throughout IPL 2026, the captain found himself under intense scrutiny. Every bowling change, field placement, and tactical decision became a topic of discussion among analysts and fans.While cricket remains a team sport, leadership often becomes the focal point during difficult periods.Critics argued that some tactical calls backfired at key moments. Others felt the team lacked the energy and confidence usually associated with successful IPL sides.Supporters, however, pointed out that the captain could not be blamed for every defeat. Injuries, player form, and execution on the field also played major roles in the team's struggles.Regardless of differing opinions, the pressure continued to grow throughout the season.Why the Captain Decided to Step DownAccording to reports, the decision to relinquish the captaincy was made after careful consideration.Several factors may have influenced the move:1. Team PerformanceThe franchise's disappointing results undoubtedly played a major role. Captains often feel responsible when a talented squad fails to meet expectations.2. Personal FormLeading a team while managing personal performance can be challenging. Stepping down may allow the player to focus entirely on contributing with bat or ball.3. Fresh Leadership NeededSometimes teams benefit from a new voice and a different leadership style. A change at the top can reinvigorate the dressing room.4. Long-Term PlanningThe franchise may already be preparing for the future and identifying a younger leader who can guide the team for several seasons.Fans React to the DecisionThe news generated significant discussion across social media platforms.Many fans expressed sadness, acknowledging the captain's contribution to the franchise over the years.Others viewed the decision as a positive step, believing a leadership change could help the team move forward.
Rajat Patidar provides crucial update on Phil Salt's availability for RCB's IPL 2026 Qualifier 1 match against GT
Royal Challengers Bengaluru captain Rajat Patidar has finally addressed the biggest question surrounding the team ahead of their high-voltage IPL 2026 Qualifier 1 clash against Gujarat Titans — the availability of explosive English opener Phil Salt. With RCB entering one of the most crucial matches of their season, fans have been anxiously waiting for clarity regarding Salt’s fitness and participation after concerns emerged over his condition following the league-stage fixtures.RCB have looked like one of the strongest and most balanced teams in IPL 2026, and a major reason behind their success has been the aggressive batting approach provided by Phil Salt at the top of the order. The wicketkeeper-batter has consistently delivered quick starts during the powerplay and has formed a dangerous partnership with Virat Kohli. His fearless intent has helped Bengaluru dominate bowling attacks throughout the tournament, making him one of the franchise’s most valuable players this season.Ahead of the Qualifier 1 encounter against Gujarat Titans, Rajat Patidar attended the pre-match press conference where reporters questioned him about Salt’s current condition and whether the English batter would be available for selection. Patidar gave a reassuring response, stating that the team management remains positive about Salt’s recovery and that the medical staff has been closely monitoring his situation.According to Patidar, Phil Salt participated in light training sessions and showed encouraging signs ahead of the knockout game. While the RCB captain did not officially confirm Salt’s inclusion in the playing XI, his comments strongly hinted that the opener could return in time for the crucial contest. Patidar emphasized that the team would take the final decision only after evaluating Salt’s fitness before the toss.The update has come as a massive relief for RCB supporters, especially considering the impact Salt has had throughout IPL 2026. The English batter has played several match-winning innings this season and has often shifted momentum in Bengaluru’s favor within the first six overs. His attacking strokeplay against both pace and spin has allowed RCB’s middle order to play with greater freedom.Salt’s performances this season have also complemented Virat Kohli perfectly. While Kohli has anchored innings with consistency and experience, Salt has provided explosive acceleration at the other end. Their combination has become one of the most dangerous opening partnerships in the tournament, regularly putting opposition bowlers under pressure early in the innings.RCB’s road to Qualifier 1 has been impressive. After a mixed start to the season, the Bengaluru-based franchise found rhythm during the second half of the tournament and climbed the points table with consecutive victories. Rajat Patidar’s calm leadership, combined with strong performances from senior players and overseas stars, transformed RCB into serious title contenders.Patidar himself has led from the front with crucial innings in pressure situations. The RCB skipper has displayed maturity with the bat and confidence in captaincy decisions, earning praise from fans and cricket experts alike. His ability to rotate bowlers effectively and back young players has played an important role in Bengaluru’s successful campaign.Meanwhile, Gujarat Titans have also enjoyed a remarkable season. Known for their disciplined bowling attack and balanced squad, GT once again proved why they are considered one of the most consistent franchises in recent IPL history. Led by a composed captaincy group and supported by impactful all-rounders, Gujarat finished the league stage strongly to secure a top-two finish.The Qualifier 1 clash between RCB and GT is expected to attract enormous attention from cricket fans across the world. The winner of the match will directly qualify for the IPL 2026 final, while the losing team will get another opportunity through Qualifier 2. This added safety net makes the encounter even more intense, as both teams will aim to secure a direct path to the summit clash.For RCB, the possible return of Phil Salt could significantly strengthen their batting lineup. His aggressive intent in the powerplay often changes the course of matches, especially on batting-friendly surfaces. If Salt is declared fit, Gujarat Titans bowlers could face an early challenge containing RCB’s attacking top order.On the other hand, if Salt misses out, Bengaluru may need to reshuffle their batting combination. The team management could consider alternative opening options or bring in another overseas batter to maintain balance. However, replacing a player of Salt’s impact and form would certainly not be easy.The IPL playoffs are known for producing high-pressure moments and unforgettable performances. Over the years, several teams have entered knockout matches with injury concerns surrounding key players. In many cases, last-minute fitness clearances have changed the momentum entirely. RCB fans will be hoping that Phil Salt can recover fully and deliver another explosive performance in the playoffs.Social media has already exploded with reactions following Rajat Patidar’s comments. RCB supporters flooded platforms with optimistic messages, expressing excitement over Salt’s possible comeback. Many fans believe that a fully fit Phil Salt could become the X-factor for Bengaluru in their quest for a maiden IPL title.Cricket analysts have also highlighted Salt’s importance to RCB’s strategy. His aggressive starts not only maximize powerplay scoring but also force opposing captains to alter bowling plans early in the game. This often creates opportunities for players like Kohli, Patidar, and Maxwell to capitalize later in the innings.Another key factor will be Gujarat Titans’ bowling attack. GT possess several experienced bowlers capable of controlling aggressive batters during the powerplay. The battle between Phil Salt and Gujarat’s new-ball bowlers could become one of the defining moments of the match if the English opener is available.The Narendra Modi Stadium is expected to host a packed crowd for the blockbuster encounter. Fans from both franchises are eagerly waiting to witness a thrilling playoff showdown between two in-form teams. Given the stakes involved, pressure handling and execution in crucial moments could decide the outcome.RCB’s bowling department has also improved significantly during the latter stages of the tournament. Their pace attack has delivered breakthroughs consistently, while the spinners have controlled middle overs effectively. Patidar praised the collective effort of the squad and mentioned that every player understands their role clearly heading into the playoffs.The franchise’s dream of winning a maiden IPL trophy remains alive, and the team appears more balanced and confident than ever before. Experienced stars alongside emerging talents have created a strong team environment inside the RCB camp.As for Gujarat Titans, they will rely heavily on their all-round depth and tactical discipline. GT have repeatedly shown the ability to handle pressure situations calmly, making them one of the toughest opponents in knockout cricket. Their balanced approach and experienced bowling lineup could test Bengaluru’s aggressive batting unit.The excitement surrounding the IPL 2026 playoffs continues to grow with every passing day. Fans are expecting fireworks, dramatic finishes, and standout individual performances as the tournament moves closer to crowning a new champion.For now, all eyes remain on the final fitness update regarding Phil Salt. Rajat Patidar’s latest statement has certainly provided hope for RCB fans, but the final call could come only closer to match time. Whether Salt plays or not, one thing is certain — the RCB vs GT Qualifier 1 clash promises to be an electrifying contest filled with pressure, emotion, and world-class cricket action.
When the 'fall guy' sent Chepauk into a frenzy
Last year around this time, Chennai Super Kings showed urgency in securing replacements for their injured players. Urvil Patel was one of them after going unsold in the 2025 auction. Almost one year later, CSK again had to grapple with injuries to key players. Yet, they showed no signs of panic and remained calm instead of actively looking for replacements again."We've got Urvil Patel who's still itching to get a game, he's quality as well," head coach Stephen Fleming had said. "I know there's been some commentary around him. We're lucky to have some quality players, aggressive players at the top, so the urgency to get a replacement is not necessarily there,"The 'commentary' that Fleming had spoken about was the chatter predominantly on social media from fans and former players. Fleming and the team management were certainly under a bit of pressure as the calls for the inclusion of Urvil in the CSK XII grew louder. It was understandable given CSK's poor start and also because of the fact that Urvil was one of those players who provided a bit of spark during their gloomy 2025 campaign. Urvil, alongside other replacements Mhatre and Dewald Brevis, made quite an impression. Between the two seasons, he had also scored a 31-ball ton in the SMAT. But following the expensive acquisitions of Kartik Sharma and Prashant Veer, it was always going to be tough for CSK to accommodate all of them and hence Urvil was the "fall guy".An unfortunate injury to Mhatre finally paved the way for Urvil to get a run at No.3 and the 28-year-old has now grabbed it with both hands by stepping up at a crucial juncture for CSK. The five-time champions have been on a comeback trail but there's still lots to be done in order to break into the top four. Back-to-back fixtures against bottom-placed Lucknow Super Giants provided an excellent opportunity to build more momentum. However, ticking the first box was never going to be easy the moment LSG breached 200 while batting first.
A slow burn that never caught fire for Mumbai Indians
Mumbai Indians' IPL campaigns have often been built on timing. They have rarely been the side that storms through the league stage unbeaten or overwhelms opponents from the outset. Their best seasons have usually involved a slow burn, a squad trusting its pedigree long enough for momentum to eventually arrive. This year, however, the spark never came.A two-wicket loss to Royal Challengers Bengaluru in a last-ball thriller on Sunday (May 10) officially ended their playoff hopes, even though three league games still remain. For a franchise that once defined consistency and big-match certainty, it is now a sixth straight season without the title and another year spent drifting away from the business end of the tournament.What perhaps summed up their season best was not merely the defeat itself, but the manner in which head coach Mahela Jayawardene spoke afterwards. There was no attempt to shield the side behind bad luck, scheduling complaints or conditions. The frustration was visible, but so too was the acceptance."Yeah, I mean, the season, it's disappointing," Jayawardene said after the loss. "We've had our opportunities. We were not good enough. We were not consistent enough with the ball, with the bat and that showed the margins."
Hardik Pandya Joins Mumbai Indians Squad Ahead Of RCB Clash Amid Speculations
Skipper and star all-rounder Hardik Pandya has joined the Mumbai Indians (MI) squad in Raipur ahead of their crucial IPL 2026 clash against the Royal Challengers Bengaluru, after missing the previous match due to a back spasm. The development was confirmed on the franchise's Instagram page, where they shared a post of their captain, Hardik. During MI's previous IPL 2026 clash against the Lucknow Super Giants, Suryakumar Yadav stepped in to lead the side in place of Hardik.After Mumbai's thumping win over LSG, during the post-match press conference, Ryan Rickelton addressed concerns about Hardik's injury."I don't know when he's expected to be back. I found out this afternoon that he had back spasms, so I'm unaware of the extent of it. I don't want to call it an injury; I'm unaware of the extent of how bad it is or what he's feeling. But I'm sure he'll be with the group again as we head to Raipur this week," Rickelton said.A full-fledged training session is scheduled at the Shaheed Veer Narayan Singh International Cricket Stadium, and Pandya is expected to train with the team in the nets on Friday.
IPL Match Today, LSG vs RCB: Predicted playing XI, head-to-head, pitch report, Lucknow weather update
Royal Challengers Bengaluru return from their IPL break still placed second on the table, but the playoff race around them has tightened considerably. What once looked like a comfortable top-four push has now turned into a crowded six-team battle, meaning even one poor result could dramatically alter standings.Despite their strong position, RCB have a few concerns to address. All three of their defeats this season have come while batting first, exposing issues with balancing scoring tempo and middle-order transitions. Vice-captain Jitesh Sharma’s lack of runs has also impacted their batting flow.Meanwhile, Lucknow Super Giants sit at the bottom of the table after a disappointing campaign marked by inconsistency. Captain Rishabh Pant recently admitted the team has struggled for momentum and luck.However, LSG remain dangerous opponents because they now play without pressure. Nicholas Pooran’s return to form showed they still possess match-winning potential, and with little left to lose, they could still disrupt the playoff ambitions of teams like RCB.LSG vs RCB: Head-to-HeadMatches played: 7Lucknow Super Giants won: 2Royal Challengers Bengaluru won: 5LSG vs RCB Today IPL Match: Pitch ReportFor today’s IPL 2026 Match 50 between Lucknow Super Giants (LSG) and Royal Challengers Bengaluru (RCB) at the BRSABV Ekana Stadium, the pitch is expected to be a sluggish, low-scoring surface that favors bowlers. The black-soil surface is traditionally slow and offers significant grip, making it a testing ground for batters to play through the line. Spinners and slower-ball specialists are expected to dominate the middle overs as the ball tends to hold in the surface.LSG vs RCB IPL Match: Lucknow Weather UpdateThe weather in Lucknow is expected to be generally clear during the playing hours, with a minor threat of brief showers. Currently, it is 26°C in Lucknow with 69% humidity. Winds are moving at approximately 11 km/h, adding a slight breeze to the otherwise warm and humid conditions. It will be a warm start at 33°C near toss time, cooling down to a comfortable 24°C by the end of the game.LSG vs RCB: Predicted Playing XIsLucknow Super Gaints (Playing XI): Mitchell Marsh, Josh Inglis, Nicholas Pooran, Rishabh Pant (c&wk), Aiden Markram, Akshat Raghuwanshi, Himmat Singh, Mohammed Shami, Mohsin Khan, Price Yadav, Avesh KhanImpact Player: Digvesh RathiRoyal Challengers Bengaluru (Playing XI): Jacob Bethell, Virat Kohli, Devdutt Padikkal, Rajat Patidar (c), Jitesh Sharma (wk), Tim David, Romario Shepherd, Krunal Pandya, Bhuvneshwar Kumar, Josh Hazlewood, Suyash SharmaImpact Player: Rasikh Salam DarLSG vs RCB: Live Streaming detailsThe LSG vs RCB clash will be held at the Bharat Ratna Shri Atal Bihari Vajpayee Ekana Cricket Stadium, Lucknow with the match set to begin at 7:30 PM IST. The game will be broadcast on the Star Sports Network, while live streaming will be available on JioHotstar.
Rishabh Pant faces criticism after LSG’s inconsistent performances in IPL 2026.
Lucknow Super Giants’ campaign in IPL 2026 has come under serious scrutiny, with captain Rishabh Pant facing growing criticism from experts and former players. The team’s inconsistent performances, including a recent Super Over loss, have raised questions about leadership decisions and tactical execution.A former India cricketer has even suggested that Pant should step down from captaincy, highlighting the need for a fresh approach to revive the team’s fortunes. The issue is not just about results but also about decision-making under pressure. Several matches have seen questionable bowling changes and field placements, which have cost LSG crucial moments in tight games.
INR 1 crore doubled in one night: Abhishek Sharma's 135 gives SRH dream return on investment
Abhishek Sharma's explosive 135 runs against Delhi Capitals elevated his match worth to ₹1.95 crore, netting Sunrisers Hyderabad a profit of ₹95.16 lakh.Abhishek Sharma’s 135 not out against the Delhi Capitals gave Sunrisers Hyderabad more than a match-winning innings. It delivered one of the biggest single-night value spikes by a top-order batter this IPL season.
IPL 2026 Play Of The Day: Rishabh Pant goes full Ghajini as PBKS plunder LSG in Mullanpur
IPL 2026: It was a night to forget for Rishabh Pant, the LSG skipper, as his decision to not use main spinner M. Siddharth effectively came to haunt them the match against PBKS. Pant also had a howler with DRS, which gave Cooper Connolly a second life.If you’re a fan of Bollywood, chances are you’ve watched Ghajini, starring Aamir Khan. In the film, his character suffers from short-term memory loss and constantly forgets key details. To stay focused on his mission, he writes notes and tattoos reminders on his body.Now, we’re not suggesting Rishabh Pant needs to go that far, but a gentle reminder wouldn’t hurt. Maybe not full-blown tattoos all over his body like Ghajini, but even a small one saying “Use spin more” might just do the trick.
IPL Pulse: Overrated strike-rates and underrated smarts
Phil Salt's 63 powered them to 175/8, but the innings stalled badly at the death (and no, Axar didn't bowl the 19th this time).KL Rahul and Tristan Stubbs rebuilt calmly before David Miller iced it at the finish.In Hyderabad, SRH's 194 looked under threat with CSK cruising at 111/3.But wickets in clusters and sharp death bowling flipped it, as CSK fell short by 10 runs.Oh, that happenedCSK lost yet another run-chase, this time after cruising to 112/3 chasing 195, with the win probability at 69%, only to fall short by 10 after managing just 30/2 in the next five overs. It mirrors a deeper slide; they have the second-worst chasing record since 2024 (6 wins in 16) and have lost 16 of 18 chases of 175-plus since 2020.
Khaleel setback adds to CSK's mounting injury troubles
Chennai Super Kings fast bowler Khaleel Ahmed has been ruled out of the remainder of IPL 2026, with franchise CEO Kasi Viswanathan confirming the development to Cricbuzz. The 28-year-old left-arm seamer pulled up late in CSK's recent win over Kolkata Knight Riders, clutching his quads and visibly in discomfort. He was unable to complete the final ball of what would have been his four-over spell, with Gurjapneet Singh stepping in to finish the 17th over of KKR's chase.The injury has since been assessed as serious enough to end Khaleel's season, further deepening the five-time champions' growing injury concerns. CSK had already lost Nathan Ellis, while his replacement, Spencer Johnson, is yet to join the squad due to his own injury. Viswanathan said that a decision on Khaleel's replacement will be taken in consultation with captain Ruturaj Gaikwad and head coach Stephen Fleming.There are also concerns on another front. CSK have been without MS Dhoni, who has been nursing a calf strain since before the season started. Although he has resumed light batting sessions in the nets, the 44-year-old is still not match-fit and remains unlikely to feature in Saturday's (April 18) fixture against Sunrisers Hyderabad. The squad is set to travel later today, but it is understood that Dhoni has not yet communicated his travel plans to the team, casting further uncertainty over his availability for the game.
Rajasthan Royals Sold For More Than Rs 15,000 Crore, Set To Become Costliest IPL Franchise
The Rajasthan Royals ownership race is over, and a consortium led by US-based entrepreneur Kal Somani has emerged as the winner. The consortium reportedly acquired 100 per cent of the franchise at a valuation of $1.63 billion (Rs 15,286 crore). Somani is the founder of IntraEdge, Academian, and Truyo.AI. He is backed by American businessman Rob Walton, of the Walmart family, and the Hamp family, who own majority stakes in National Football League (NFL) side Detroit Lions. Sheila Ford Hamp also has roots in the Ford family, who are co-owners of the Ford Motor Company.
Starc to miss start of IPL 2026
Mitchell Starc is set to miss the start of IPL 2026, with Cricket Australia taking a cautious approach in managing the left-arm quick ahead of a demanding international schedule. Starc is among Australia's senior pacers being held back for the early part of the tournament, with his availability dependent on progress in return-to-play protocols over the coming weeks, according to a report on cricket.com.au. The 36-year-old's workload has been a key factor in the decision. He featured in all five Ashes Tests before turning out in the latter stages of the Big Bash League. While Starc stepped away from T20 Internationals last year, he remains central to Australia's plans in the longer formats. With a packed stretch ahead that could see Australia play up to 21 Tests in a 12-month window from August - including tours of South Africa, India and England, followed by the ODI World Cup in 2027 - the board has opted for a conservative approach. Starc was picked up by Delhi Capitals for INR 11.75 crore, and his absence will leave a significant gap in their attack at the start of the season. Pat Cummins and Josh Hazlewood are also set to miss the opening phase as part of the same workload management plan, while Nathan Ellis has been ruled out of the tournament due to a hamstring injury.
India clinch a landmark win in style | Final | Match Highlights | T20WC 2026
India exorcised the demons of 2023, when they had lost the ODI World Cup final at the very stadium, as they defeated the Black Caps by 96 runs. It culminated a brilliant run at the tournament, as India have lost just one match in the last two T20 World Cups. New Zealand were blown away by the power-packed Indian batting line-up, who posted 255/5, the highest total at a T20 World Cup final. In response, the Black Caps folded at 159 in 19 overs. The victory ensured India became the first team to defend their T20 World Cup title, the first to triumph at a home championship, and the first to win three T20 World Cup titles.
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When the 'fall guy' sent Chepauk into a frenzy
12 May 2026