PBKS Star Quits Domestic Team Alleging Ill Treatment

Josh Hazlewood Once Refused To Bowl To Cheteshwar Pujara; Here's Why

Shivam Sharma — Fri, 7 Aug 2026 16:06:19 +0530

Cheteshwar Pujara has recalled a humorous incident involving Australian pacer Josh Hazlewood from their time together at Chennai Super Kings (CSK). Pujara revealed that Hazlewood playfully refused to bowl to him during a practice session, joking that he had already spent enough time bowling to him in Test cricket.

The light-hearted exchange came after the pair had faced off repeatedly during India's historic Border-Gavaskar Trophy triumphs in Australia in 2018-19 and 2020-21, where Pujara's marathon innings often frustrated the Australian quicks.

"During the Australia series in 2018 and 2021, I played a lot against Josh Hazlewood. Then I got picked by CSK. The first time I went to bat in the nets, Hazlewood refused to bowl to me. He said, 'I won't bowl to him.' Even though he was my teammate, he refused.

"He joked that he had bowled to me far too much over the previous few months before the IPL, so he wasn't going to bowl to me again. He was kidding, but he actually didn't bowl to me," said Pujara on JioHotstar's series Cheeky Singles.

Looking back on the early days of his IPL career, Pujara also spoke about a memorable encounter with Shah Rukh Khan, co-owner of the Kolkata Knight Riders (KKR).

He admitted it was a special moment to meet the Bollywood superstar, but stressed that for professional cricketers, the team's environment, opportunities to improve, and overall cricketing culture ultimately matter far more than the presence of celebrity franchise owners.

"I started with KKR. Shah Rukh Khan was the owner there. When I met him for the first time, I definitely had that fanboy moment. But when you think about cricket, you can't think, 'Just because Shah Rukh Khan is the owner, I want to stay here.'

"You want to be there because of the environment the franchise creates, the opportunity to learn from legendary players, play alongside them, and improve your cricket. That is what matters," he added.

Shivam Dube Wants Exit; CSK Considers Foreign Coach Amid MS Dhoni Uncertainty: Report

Prateek Thakur — Fri, 7 Aug 2026 15:56:23 +0530

Chennai Super Kings could be heading towards a significant transition ahead of IPL 2027. According to claims made by RevSportz journalist Rohit Juglan, all-rounder Shivam Dube wants to leave the franchise, while Chennai Super Kings are also considering changes to their coaching structure following three disappointing seasons. There has been no official confirmation from Chennai Super Kings or Shivam Dube regarding the claims.

Shivam Dube Wants New Challenge

According to the RevSportz report, Dube believes he has not been utilised to his full potential during his time with Chennai Super Kings.

Although regarded as a pace-bowling all-rounder, Dube has barely been used with the ball over the last three IPL seasons. He bowled only nine overs during that period and picked up two wickets.

His batting returns have also declined in recent years. Dube scored 396 runs in IPL 2024, followed by 357 runs in IPL 2025 before finishing IPL 2026 with 270 runs.

The report adds that the Impact Player rule has limited his all-round role, prompting him to explore opportunities elsewhere before the IPL 2027 auction.

MS Dhoni's Future Still Unclear

The report also claims there is no clarity over MS Dhoni's future with Chennai Super Kings.

According to the report, Dhoni is currently in England in connection with the franchise, but no decision has been made on whether he will return as a player, take on a player-coach role, become a full-time mentor or step away completely.

These possibilities remain speculative, with no official announcement from CSK or Dhoni.

CSK Considering Coaching Changes

The report further claims Chennai Super Kings are exploring the possibility of appointing a foreign head coach as part of a wider rebuild.

The move would come after CSK failed to qualify for the IPL playoffs for three consecutive seasons between 2024 and 2026.

It also suggests the franchise's management is becoming increasingly independent in its decision-making, although these claims have not been confirmed by Chennai Super Kings.

A New Phase For Chennai Super Kings?

Under MS Dhoni's leadership, Chennai Super Kings won five IPL titles and established themselves as one of the league's most consistent franchises.

However, after lifting the trophy in 2023, CSK have endured three disappointing campaigns, increasing speculation over possible changes to both the squad and support staff ahead of IPL 2027.

Whether those changes include Shivam Dube's departure or a revamped coaching setup remains to be seen.

R Ashwin Makes Big Hardik Pandya Trade Claim, Names Only Two IPL Teams In Race

Prateek Thakur — Fri, 7 Aug 2026 14:00:58 +0530

Former India spinner Ravichandran Ashwin has shared his views on the growing speculation surrounding Hardik Pandya's future with Mumbai Indians (MI), saying the all-rounder is unlikely to join any franchise other than Chennai Super Kings (CSK) or Kolkata Knight Riders (KKR) if a trade materialises ahead of IPL 2027.

Hardik's future has become a major talking point after Mumbai Indians endured a disappointing IPL 2026 campaign, finishing ninth in the 10-team table.

Ashwin Sees Only Two Realistic Options

Speaking on his YouTube channel, Ashwin said he does not expect Hardik to move anywhere other than CSK or KKR if Mumbai Indians decide to trade their captain.

He also referred to reports linking Pandya with both franchises, while discussing the possible combinations that could be considered in any deal.

"Don't count out Hardik going to a franchise other than CSK or KKR. The talks are that CSK will give Dube and a pacer, while KKR gives away Cameron Green."

ALSO READ | Suryakumar Yadav Set To Leave MI; Hardik Pandya's Next Franchise In Focus: Report

Ashwin Suggests Ideal Deal For Mumbai Indians

Ashwin believes Mumbai Indians should only entertain a trade with Kolkata Knight Riders if they receive both Harshit Rana and Rinku Singh in return.

According to him, that is the only scenario where MI would strengthen their own squad while avoiding making a direct rival significantly stronger.

"If I were MI, I would accept a deal with KKR on only one condition, which is getting Harshit Rana and Rinku Singh in return. That is the only way MI gets stronger."

Why KKR Deal Could Worry Mumbai Indians

Ashwin added that Mumbai Indians would also need to consider which franchise becomes stronger through any potential trade.

He believes Kolkata Knight Riders would benefit more than Chennai Super Kings if they managed to sign Hardik.

"If KKR get Hardik, they suddenly look very strong. KKR will become a lethal batting lineup with Hardik. These are teams with five, five and three titles, so MI have to think how they can ensure one of these teams doesn't leapfrog them."

No Official Confirmation On Hardik's Future

There has been no official confirmation from Mumbai Indians, Hardik Pandya or the IPL regarding any trade discussions.

Hardik has not played competitive cricket since IPL 2026, where he scored 206 runs and picked up four wickets in 10 matches as Mumbai Indians missed the playoffs.

Ashwin's comments come amid ongoing speculation over possible squad reshuffles before the IPL 2027 season.

Not CSK! Hardik Pandya Linked With This Team For IPL 2027

Suyash Sahay — Thu, 6 Aug 2026 18:27:48 +0530

Hardik Pandya New IPL Team: IPL 2027 may still be some time away, but social media is already buzzing with fresh rumours involving one of Indian cricket's biggest stars. Mumbai Indians captain Hardik Pandya has become the centre of speculation after a cryptic post sparked widespread discussion about a possible move to Kolkata Knight Riders. While there has been no official confirmation from either franchise or the player himself, the post has generated significant debate and intrigue among fans.

Hardik Pandya To KKR?

Update
HP💜 (C)
PS - sorry CSK fans
— Rohit Juglan (@rohitjuglan) August 6, 2026

Revsportz journalist Rohit Juglan shared a brief social media post featuring the initials "HP" alongside a purple heart emoji.

The "HP" is likely Hardik Pandya, while the purple heart seems as a possible reference to Kolkata Knight Riders, whose primary team colour is purple.

Social media has been flooded of late with theories and rumours over whether Hardik Pandya could be on the move from Mumbai Indians.

He was involved in a rather controversial transfer to the franchise from Gujarat Titans a couple of seasons back, replacing Rohit Sharma as captain, but his tenure has been far from what fans expected in terms of success.

No Official Word From MI, KKR Or Hardik

Hardik Pandya remains one of the IPL's most valuable all-rounders, having previously led both Gujarat Titans and Mumbai Indians.

His ability to contribute with both bat and ball, along with his leadership credentials, naturally makes him a frequent subject of transfer speculation.

A move to Kolkata Knight Riders, if it were ever to happen, would rank among the biggest player transfers in IPL history.

For now, though, there has been no official statement from Mumbai Indians, Kolkata Knight Riders or Hardik Pandya regarding the rumoured switch.

'IPL & International Cricket Completely Different': Rahane's Big Message On Vaibhav Sooryavanshi

Suyash Sahay — Thu, 6 Aug 2026 14:04:43 +0530

Ajinkya Rahane On Vaibhav Sooryavanshi: Former India batsman Ajinkya Rahane has called for patience in assessing teenage sensation Vaibhav Sooryavanshi, urging fans and experts not to rush into predicting the youngster's future in international cricket. While the 15-year-old has already generated immense excitement with his fearless batting, Rahane believes the transition from franchise cricket to the international stage requires time and understanding. The experienced batsman stressed that expectations should be managed carefully, especially for a player who has only just begun his senior international journey.

Rahane Urges Patience With Sooryavanshi

Speaking on the Stick to Cricket podcast, Rahane explained why it would be unfair to place additional pressure on Sooryavanshi at such an early stage of his career.

"It's tough to say or comment on right now. I don't want to say anything and put pressure on that young kid because people are already talking a lot about him. It's just two IPL seasons."

Rahane also highlighted the significant difference between succeeding in the Indian Premier League and performing for the national team, where the expectations and pressure are considerably higher.

"What I've realised is that IPL and international cricket are completely different. The pressure when you represent your country is enormous. Chasing 70 runs in the IPL in four or five overs is easy."

"Chasing the same number of runs in international cricket is different. So, let him just play his game, let him just grow," he added.

Strong Comeback After Difficult England Tour

Sooryavanshi's international career has already witnessed contrasting phases.

His debut series in England proved challenging, as the young opener struggled to make an impact with scores of 14, 13 and 15 across three T20Is before being left out of the final game.

However, the left-hander responded impressively in India's subsequent T20I series against Zimbabwe.

He announced his return with a half-century in the opening match, followed it with 20 in the second game and capped off the series with a blistering 81 off just 49 deliveries in the finale.

India completed a comprehensive 3-0 series sweep, while Sooryavanshi accumulated 151 runs at an average of 50.33.

Which Is Cricket's Richest League After IPL? It's Not BBL Or PSL

Suyash Sahay — Wed, 5 Aug 2026 15:50:42 +0530

Richest Cricket Leagues: The Indian Premier League (IPL) has transformed the business of cricket since its launch in 2008. What began as a franchise-based T20 competition has grown into one of the world's most valuable sporting leagues, with its estimated valuation now touching US$20.6 billion. The tournament has become the financial powerhouse of cricket, helping the BCCI emerge as one of the richest sporting bodies globally.

The IPL's remarkable growth has also inspired several countries to establish their own franchise leagues.

The Hundred Climbs To Second Spot

Australia, England, Pakistan, South Africa, Bangladesh and even Nepal now host T20 competitions that attract international stars.

However, when it comes to commercial value, only one league has managed to establish itself as the closest challenger to the IPL.

Many fans would assume Australia's Big Bash League (BBL) or South Africa's SA20 that occupies the second position in cricket's financial rankings. However, recent estimates suggest England's The Hundred has moved ahead of its rivals.

Reports valued The Hundred's brand at approximately US$610 million in 2024. Its valuation rose dramatically after the England and Wales Cricket Board (ECB) sold stakes in the tournament's franchises, attracting significant investment from around the world.

Several IPL franchise owners entered the competition by purchasing stakes in The Hundred teams. Investors linked to Mumbai Indians, Delhi Capitals and Sunrisers Hyderabad were among those involved in the ownership changes.

Following these investments, reports estimate The Hundred's valuation has climbed to approximately US$1.3 billion, making it the second-most valuable cricket league after the IPL.

IPL In A League Of Its Own

Despite the rapid growth of rival competitions, the IPL continues to enjoy a massive financial advantage over every other cricket league.

Its estimated valuation of US$20.6 billion places it far ahead of the rest of the field and makes it one of the biggest sporting properties in the world.

The Pakistan Super League remains well behind the top two competitions. Reports estimate the PSL's business valuation at slightly above US$250 million, highlighting the significant gap between Pakistan's franchise tournament and the IPL or The Hundred.

South Africa's SA20 has also recorded encouraging commercial growth. Financial figures released in 2025 indicated the league generated profits exceeding US$45 million, reflecting its increasing popularity and business potential.

India Veteran Unhappy With Vaibhav Sooryavanshi's Treatment, Questions Selection Call

Suyash Sahay — Wed, 5 Aug 2026 13:56:23 +0530

Kaif On Vaibhav Sooryavanshi: Former India batsman Mohammad Kaif has expressed his disappointment over the way Team India introduced teenage batting sensation Vaibhav Sooryavanshi to international cricket. According to Kaif, the 15-year-old opener should have been handed his debut during India's tour of Ireland instead of being thrown into a tougher assignment in England. Kaif believes an earlier opportunity against Ireland would have helped the youngster adjust to the demands of international cricket.

The former India cricketer argued that the move could have eased Sooryavanshi's nerves and allowed him to carry his domestic confidence onto the international stage.

Kaif Feels Ireland Debut Would Have Eased Pressure

Speaking on his YouTube channel, Kaif praised Sooryavanshi's talent and pointed to the teenager's remarkable IPL campaign as proof that he was ready for international cricket.

“Vaibhav is an X-factor player. He made a reputation for himself. His bat did the talking in the IPL despite him being in the spotlight. He didn't just perform in one or two matches. He won the Orange Cap."

"He should have played in Ireland; the nervousness would have gone in that case. He would have reached England and performed well,” Kaif added.

The former India batsman felt that exposing the youngster to international cricket in relatively less challenging conditions would have allowed him to settle before facing tougher opposition.

'Should Have Gotten Special Treatment': Kaif

Mohammad Kaif further insisted that players with exceptional ability sometimes deserve a different pathway to help them succeed at the highest level.

“He was having a rich vein of form behind him; he had won the Orange Cap, but you told him you serve water first."

"He's a special player; you could have played him directly in Ireland. He should have gotten special treatment. If he played in Ireland, he would not have had any nervousness in the UK.”

Sooryavanshi's initial stint with the Indian team proved challenging. After struggling for runs in his first few opportunities, the teenager was dropped from the squad, with Sanju Samson returning to the side.

However, the young opener responded positively when given another opportunity during the Zimbabwe series. He registered his maiden international half-century, offering a glimpse of the talent that had earned him widespread praise during the IPL.

Brett Lee Finally Breaks Silence On Preity Zinta Dating Speculations After Years

Prateek Thakur — Wed, 5 Aug 2026 11:25:01 +0530

Former Australia fast bowler Brett Lee has finally addressed the long-running rumours linking him with Bollywood actress and Punjab Kings co-owner Preity Zinta. The speculation dates back to their time together during the early years of the Indian Premier League, but Lee has now made it clear that the two have always shared only a close friendship.

Brett Lee Addresses Years Of Speculation

Lee represented Kings XI Punjab, now known as Punjab Kings, between 2008 and 2010 after joining the franchise during the inaugural IPL season. Zinta, one of the team's co-owners, was regularly seen supporting the side from the dugout.

Their public appearances together led to repeated rumours about a possible relationship, although neither confirmed the speculation at the time.

Speaking to Bombay Times, Lee has now dismissed those claims.

"Here's your scoop: I never dated a Bollywood actress. Preity Zinta and I were, and still are, great friends. She was the boss of the Punjab team back then. She's an incredibly smart woman, and I have a lot of respect for her."

The former fast bowler said he never felt the need to respond earlier because he always knew the truth.

"Stories like that never bothered me because I always knew the truth. People can speculate all they want, but I never let it affect me."

Preity Zinta Had Denied Rumours In 2010

Although Lee had remained silent for years, Zinta publicly denied the rumours during the 2010 IPL season.

She had said:

"I think being romantically linked to Brett every year is outdated and stale news now! So sorry to say, folks, NO NEWS here! FRIENDS yeesss."

Her statement ended the speculation at the time, although the rumours continued to surface over the years.

Brett Lee And Preity Zinta Moved On With Their Lives

Lee married Elizabeth Kemp in 2006, and the couple had a son before separating. Their divorce was finalised in 2009.

The former Australia pacer later married Lana Anderson in 2014, and the couple have two children.

Zinta, meanwhile, continues to co-own Punjab Kings and remains actively involved with the IPL franchise. She is also set to return to the big screen with Batwara 1947, alongside Sunny Deol, with the film scheduled for release on August 14.

Lee's latest comments finally bring clarity to one of the longest-running rumours from the IPL's early years, confirming that his relationship with Zinta has always been based on friendship rather than romance.

Former Umpire Makes Big Remark On Virat Kohli's Aggression, Recalls Gambhir Clash

Suyash Sahay — Tue, 4 Aug 2026 14:49:21 +0530

Virat Kohli and his animated celebrations, fiery on-field personality have often divided opinion, but former international umpire Anil Chaudhary believes that such passion is exactly what cricket needs. Having officiated in Kohli's matches since his younger days, Chaudhary said the former India captain's aggression should not be mistaken for hostility, insisting it stems purely from his competitive nature. Kohli, who was last seen during India's ODI series against England, is expected to return to action in the upcoming series against the West Indies in September.

Ahead of that assignment, Chaudhary shared his views on the batter's approach and why players with similar intensity make the sport more entertaining.

Anil Chaudhary Opens Up On Kohli's Aggression

Speaking on JioHotstar, Chaudhary reflected on his long association with Kohli and said he has observed the batting star's personality evolve over the years.

"Actually, in the case of Virat, I have the advantage that I have umpired in his matches since childhood, so I have known him for a long time. He does not have any bad feelings towards anyone."

The former umpire explained that while Kohli can appear aggressive during matches, there is no personal malice behind his behaviour.

"They get aggressive sometimes, but if you're right, they'll also praise you. Between overs, they might come up to you and put their hand on your shoulder, but they're always full of enthusiasm. We need players like that; otherwise, the game would get boring," Chaudhary said on JioHotstar.

Chaudhary Recalls Kohli-Gambhir Spat

Anil Chaudhary also spoke about the well-known on-field altercation between Virat Kohli and Gautam Gambhir during the IPL in 2013.

According to him, such incidents are often a by-product of the competitive mindset that drives elite cricketers.

"I knew something like this would happen because all the players from the North play aggressively. I have also played local cricket and our players have always played like this."

"If they do not play with that aggression, their performance will not be as good. If you impose too many restrictions on the players, the game will become unfunny, but there is a limit, and it should not be crossed."

While opinions on Kohli's animated style continue to vary, Chaudhary believes the India star's passion and intensity remain valuable assets for the sport, provided the aggression stays within acceptable limits.

PBKS Star Quits Domestic Team Alleging Ill Treatment

Shivam Sharma — Tue, 4 Aug 2026 13:45:43 +0530

Punjab Kings all-rounder Shashank Singh has officially cut ties with his long-time domestic side, Chhattisgarh, and will represent Puducherry (Pondicherry) starting with the 2026-27 domestic season.

The 34-year-old middle-order batter confirmed he has secured an official No Objection Certificate (NOC) from the Chhattisgarh State Cricket Sangh (CSCS), accusing the state board of total neglect and unjust exclusion during a difficult injury phase.

Shashank's Grievances

Speaking about his decision to leave Chhattisgarh, Shashank detailed his frustration over the lack of communication and backing from state officials while recovering from physical setbacks:

"Yes, I'm quitting Chhattisgarh. I've taken the NOC from CSCS and am moving to Pondicherry from the 2026-27 season. I suffered serious shoulder and finger injuries last season, but the Chhattisgarh State Cricket Sangh didn't support me at all during that phase," Shashank told The Times of India.

Also Read | BCCI Adds Two New Faces To Team India After Aaqib Nabi's Appointment

"After the season, my name was not included in the list of players for the Chhattisgarh Cricket Premier League 2026. It was also missing from the Chhattisgarh squad that travelled to Bengaluru for a pre-season camp. I asked why I had been left out, but there was no response," he added.

The 34-year-old all-rounder, who delivered impressive performances in both the Vijay Hazare Trophy and the Syed Mushtaq Ali Trophy, alleged that the Chhattisgarh State Cricket Sangh accused him of giving greater importance to the IPL than domestic cricket, despite his consistent contributions across state competitions.

"I was told that I only wanted to play in the IPL and not for Chhattisgarh in domestic cricket. The reality is that just last year, I was adjudged India's best white-ball all-rounder by the BCCI when I received the Lala Amarnath Award for the Best All-Rounder in Domestic Limited-Overs Competitions for the 2023-24 season," he said.