Thursday, May 07
Bengal captain Abhimanyu Easwaran has been added to the IPL auction list at the last minute, with a base price of Rs 30 lakh. Meanwhile, all-rounder Deepak Hooda, whose bowling action has been reported as suspect, is listed as a bowler with a base price of Rs 75 lakh.
Teenage sensation Vaibhav Sooryavanshi is gaining popularity, with young fans comparing him to Yuvraj Singh. Sooryavanshi is currently part of India’s Under-19 squad at the ACC Men’s Under-19 Asia Cup 2025. In the opening match of the tournament, he scored 171 runs against UAE and played a key role in India’s win.
Olympic champion Abhinav Bindra questions India's sporting priorities amidst "Messi mania." While respecting the football icon, Bindra highlights the vast resources spent on his tour, contrasting it with the underfunded grassroots sports ecosystem. He urges investment in playgrounds, coaches, and development pathways, arguing that true sporting nations build talent patiently, not through fleeting spectacles.
Royal Challengers Bengaluru, led by Rajat Patidar, finally clinched their maiden IPL title in 2025, defeating Punjab Kings. With a strong batting lineup and effective bowling, RCB enters the 2026 auction with Rs 16.40 crore and 8 slots to fill, aiming to bolster their bowling depth and middle-order options.
The IPL Auction 2026 mini-auction prioritizes precision over volume, with a significant demand for seam-bowling all-rounders like Cameron Green. Franchises with substantial purses, particularly KKR and CSK, are poised to shape the bidding landscape. The auction will focus on fit and scarcity, with premium players commanding high prices despite potential salary caps.
Young Vaibhav Suryavanshi's stellar 171 against UAE was followed by a quiet 5 against Pakistan. Malaysia captain Deeaz Patro, inspired by David Warner and with an Odisha connection, plans strategies to dismiss Suryavanshi. Aalif, a Virat Kohli admirer, also looks forward to the challenge.
Kolkata's Messi event descended into chaos due to severe mismanagement by organisers, according to Police Commissioner Mukesh Kumar. A planned two-hour spectacle was drastically cut to 20 minutes, sparking crowd anger and unrest. The chief organiser has been arrested, with authorities reviewing CCTV footage for further action and vowing accountability.
