MS Dhoni Reveals What Has Made RCB Better Than CSK

Rohit Sharma Could Return As Mumbai Indians Captain: Report Makes Big Claim

Suyash Sahay — Sat, 31 Oct 2026 09:15:19 +0530

Rohit Sharma MI Captaincy: Mumbai Indians could be preparing for a major leadership shake-up ahead of IPL 2027, with franchise legend Rohit Sharma reportedly in contention to reclaim the captaincy. The five-time title-winning skipper could be handed another opportunity to lead as his successor, Hardik Pandya, is expected to leave. According to a report in the Times of India, there is a strong possibility that Rohit, now 39, could return for one final stint as Mumbai Indians captain.

Additionally, Tilak Varma is reportedly being considered for the vice-captaincy role, potentially giving the franchise a combination of experience and emerging leadership.

Hardik Pandya's Mumbai Indians Future In Doubt

Hardik Pandya, who took over the captaincy from Rohit Sharma in 2024, could be on his way out.

The TOI report states that MI are in discussions with three franchises over a possible trade, with an official announcement expected shortly.

Hardik's appointment as captain marked a significant transition for the franchise, but the team's results have been inconsistent during his tenure.

Mumbai Indians finished at the bottom of the table in 2024, reached the Playoffs in 2025 and slipped to ninth place in 2026.

Rohit, meanwhile, remains the captain who delivered all five of Mumbai's IPL championships.

Under his leadership, the franchise lifted the trophy in 2013, 2015, 2017, 2019 and 2020. MI have not won the competition since that last triumph.

Kieron Pollard Begins MI's Coaching Revamp

The potential leadership changes come alongside a significant reshaping of the coaching setup.

Mumbai Indians announced a revamped support staff on Friday, with franchise great Kieron Pollard taking over as head coach.

Former India batsman Robin Uthappa has been appointed batting coach, while T Dilip, previously India's fielding coach, will oversee the team's fielding department.

With the captaincy situation and Hardik's future reportedly unresolved, Mumbai could have plenty of important decisions to make before the next IPL season kicks off.

'Same Intimidation': New MI Batting Coach Robin Uthappa Wants To Strike Fear At Every IPL Venue

Suyash Sahay — Sat, 31 Oct 2026 08:10:12 +0530

Mumbai Indians are preparing for a fresh start, and new batting coach Robin Uthappa has made it clear that rebuilding the team's reputation will be a major priority. The five-time IPL champions endured a difficult 2025 campaign, finishing ninth in the 10-team competition, and bottom of the table two seasons prior. Now, the former India batter wants the franchise to rediscover its competitive edge, and prove that its threat extends well beyond home conditions.

Uthappa Wants MI To Dominate Away From Home

Uthappa believes the team cannot rely solely on its formidable record at the Wankhede Stadium.

For him, the bigger ambition is to make Mumbai Indians a side that opponents fear regardless of where an IPL fixture takes place.

Speaking in an interview on MI's YouTube channel, Uthappa acknowledged that the team has work to do to regain the confidence of its supporters.

"Today, we find ourselves back in that similar situation right now where the trust of the fans need to be earned again. We come in again as underdogs. it's been one full cycle, and we're back to where we started again, which is nice,"

Mumbai have traditionally enjoyed strong support and success at the Wankhede, but Uthappa wants that home-ground advantage to translate into performances across the country.

He believes the side should carry the same intensity and belief into away matches, ensuring rival teams face an equally difficult challenge when hosting the Mumbai outfit.

"We’re a force to reckon with at home. I want to take that same emotion, that same energy to every venue away from home."

He also wants the opposition to experience the pressure associated with facing Mumbai Indians, irrespective of the venue.

"My goal would be to make sure that that sense of intimidation that teams feel when they come to Mumbai Indians, to the Paltan, I want them to feel that same intimidation when we go away from home as well."

Mumbai Indians Look To Turn The Page

As mentioned earlier, franchise's ninth-place finish in 2025 followed another disappointing campaign two years earlier, when Mumbai ended the season at the bottom of the table under Hardik Pandya.

There have also been changes in the coaching setup.

Mahela Jayawardene recently stepped away from the head coach position, with franchise great Kieron Pollard taking over the responsibility.

Uthappa has now joined the support staff as batting coach, with the task of helping Mumbai build a stronger batting unit and restore belief among the fans.

'Lot Of Learnings': Glenn Phillips Credits IPL After Match-Winning Ton Against India

Suyash Sahay — Sat, 31 Oct 2026 07:20:46 +0530

Glenn Phillips has turned the ongoing India vs New Zealand T20I series into a personal run-scoring exhibition, and the batsman believes his experience in the Indian Premier League has played a significant role in shaping his performances. Fresh from smashing a match-winning 107 in the fourth fixture, Phillips opened up about the lessons he picked up during his IPL stints, explaining how the tournament helped him develop despite limited opportunities on the field.

Phillips Explains How IPL Experience Transformed His Game

Speaking at the post-match press conference, as quoted by PTI, Glenn Phillips highlighted the intense competition for overseas places in the IPL.

"The IPL is a certain beast of its own and the balance of teams being one of eight overseas (players) with only four spots (in the eleven) make it quite tough. So, if you don't go out there and set the world on fire there's always another person waiting in line,"

Phillips featured in just six matches for Gujarat Titans during IPL 2026, making it a relatively quiet campaign in terms of appearances.

However, the New Zealand international believes his time with the franchise offered valuable opportunities to sharpen his batting.

He particularly credited the coaching staff, training infrastructure and extended practice sessions at Gujarat for helping him improve.

“At Gujarat, I was very lucky to have some unbelievable facilities, some great coaches and plenty of time to work (on his batting). I also showed in England as well being able to have volume (of runs) under the belt, whether it's red ball or white ball."

He also stressed that cricketers can gain plenty from the IPL even when they are not regular members of their respective playing XIs.

"Yes, you'd love to score runs in the IPL and you know make a load of cash and that would be fantastic but also there's a lot of learnings that you can take from that place (in the IPL) whether you're playing or not and I think that is also on each individual that is at the IPL or at any other tournament to be able to make the most out of where they go,"

Phillips Leads New Zealand's Charge Against India

The 107-run knock took Phillips' series tally to 276 runs in four matches at an outstanding average of 92.

His collection also includes two half-centuries and a century.

His third T20I hundred proved decisive in Auckland, where New Zealand registered an emphatic 87-run victory to end India's three-match winning streak, although the series has already been lost.

IPL 2027: Mumbai Indians Announce New Batting And Bowling Coach

Shivam Sharma — Fri, 30 Oct 2026 10:40:40 +0530

Mumbai Indians have announced big changes to their coaching staff ahead of the IPL 2027 season. The franchise has appointed former India cricketer Robin Uthappa as its new batting coach, while former New Zealand fast bowler Mitchell McClenaghan will take charge of the bowling department.

With these appointments, MI have made key additions to their support staff as they prepare for the upcoming edition of the Indian Premier League.

Major Changes To Coaching Staff

Kieron Pollard, who previously held the batting coach position, has been elevated to the role of head coach. With Pollard taking up greater responsibilities, MI have brought in Uthappa to oversee the team's batting department.

The franchise has also made significant changes to its bowling coaching staff. Mumbai Indians recently confirmed the departure of Lasith Malinga and Paras Mhambrey from their respective bowling coach roles.

Former New Zealand fast bowler Mitchell McClenaghan has been appointed as the new bowling coach. McClenaghan has considerable IPL experience and is familiar with the Wankhede Stadium, having represented Mumbai Indians during his playing career.

T. Dilip Joins Mumbai Indians As Fielding Coach

Mumbai Indians have also added former India fielding coach T. Dilip to their support staff. He will take charge of the team's fielding department.

Dilip was an important member of India's coaching setup during a successful period in which the national team won three ICC trophies. His contribution, energy and innovative approach to fielding drills earned him considerable appreciation from players and supporters. Having worked extensively with international cricketers, he will now look to bring his experience to the IPL franchise.

Hardik Pandya Trade Speculation

Apart from the coaching appointments, Mumbai Indians could also witness changes to their playing squad ahead of IPL 2027. Speculation surrounding Hardik Pandya's future has gained attention following reports suggesting that the all-rounder could potentially move away from the franchise.

According to these reports, as many as six IPL teams have shown interest in acquiring Hardik through a trade, including two franchises that have previously won the IPL title. However, no official confirmation regarding a potential transfer has emerged so far.

CSK Legend Picks Best Team For Hardik Pandya Amid IPL Trade Rumours

Suyash Sahay — Thu, 29 Oct 2026 14:45:44 +0530

Hardik Pandya IPL Trade Saga: Hardik Pandya’s future in the Indian Premier League (IPL) is emerging as one of the biggest talking points at the moment. Speculation continues over the Mumbai Indians captain’s potential departure, with several franchises are reportedly interested in securing the services of the all-rounder. Chennai Super Kings (CSK), Kolkata Knight Riders (KKR) and even Gujarat Titans (GT), Hardik’s former franchise, have all featured prominently in discussions surrounding his next move.

Ashwin Picks KKR As Ideal Destination For Hardik Pandya

Speaking on his YouTube channel, Ravichandran Ashwin identified KKR as a particularly attractive destination and discussed potential players who could feature in a trade deal.

Ashwin believes Hardik could have an opportunity to lead KKR, making the franchise a compelling option.

He also discussed possible player exchanges involving the Kolkata-based team.

"KKR have great potential because Hardik can also become the captain there. They could offer Varun Chakaravarthy for him, but as long as Abhishek Nayar is there, I don't think Varun will move from KKR."

"Harshit Rana and Rinku Singh could be other options. With RR, it could be Yashasvi Jaiswal and Sam Curran, or Brijesh Sharma or Tushar Deshpande. It could also be Jaiswal with Yash Raj Punja or Bishnoi,"

Ashwin also mentioned Rajasthan Royals (RR) while outlining possible combinations, although these remain speculative scenarios rather than confirmed trade discussions.

Ashwin Rules Out LSG, Identifies 5 Franchises In Race

While reports have suggested that as many as six teams are pursuing Hardik, Ashwin offered a different assessment.

He believes Lucknow Super Giants (LSG) are not among the interested franchises, narrowing his list to five teams.

"There are as many as six teams in the battle for Hardik Pandya, is what I hear. But I don't think that's the case, as LSG aren't in the race. It's mainly CSK, KKR, RR, GT, and PBKS."

Ashwin further suggested that Hardik could prioritise finding the right environment over securing the captaincy at his next franchise.

"I also think captaincy isn't a must for Hardik anymore in his next franchise. He will just want to go to the ideal franchise for him, as he's keen to move on from MI,"

For now, Hardik Pandya’s next destination remains uncertain, with no confirmed trade announcement.

The coming months should provide greater clarity on whether Mumbai Indians retain their captain or a new chapter awaits the all-rounder.

No Batting Coach For CSK? CEO Reveals Franchise’s Surprising Call Ahead Of IPL 2027

Suyash Sahay — Wed, 28 Oct 2026 18:11:26 +0530

Chennai Super Kings have ushered in a new era following their decision to part ways with Stephen Fleming after the 2026 IPL season. The former New Zealand captain had been the franchise’s longest-serving head coach, making his departure a major change for the five-time champions. CSK have since handed the coaching reins to former India fast bowler Zaheer Khan, who now faces the challenge of turning around a side that has endured difficult recent campaigns.

However, the franchise’s plans for the upcoming IPL season have thrown up an unexpected talking point, with CEO Kasi Viswanathan confirming a notable omission from the coaching setup.

CSK CEO Rules Out Appointment Of Batting Coach

Speaking to Sportstar, Viswanathan made it clear that the franchise would not be adding another specialist to its coaching staff.

"Our coaching staff is complete. Whoever we announced yesterday will form our backroom team; we will not have a batting coach."

The decision stands out given the importance of batting expertise in the modern T20 game, particularly for a team looking to rediscover its consistency.

As qouted by News18, Viswanathan revealed that this was the new head coach's call.

"It’s a decision taken by Zaheer, but yes, we are exploring the option of using Batty (Gareth Batty) as a batting mentor. Discussions are ongoing."

Zaheer Khan will now work with the announced support staff as CSK prepare for the next season without a designated batting coach.

Michael Hussey’s Exit Leaves a Major Void

Michael Hussey was CSK's batting coach but will not continue in this role after Fleming’s exit.

The former Australia batsman had the job since 2018, having previously represented the franchise as a player for six seasons.

Hussey was part of the teams that lifted the IPL trophy in 2010 and 2011.

His contribution continued after moving into coaching, with CSK winning three more titles in 2018, 2021 and 2023 during his tenure as batting coach.

Hussey's departure therefore marks the end of an important chapter for the franchise, especially given the success the team enjoyed during his time in the setup.

IPL 2027: Chennai Super Kings Name Bowling And Assistant Coaches

Shivam Sharma — Tue, 27 Oct 2026 13:56:01 +0530

Chennai Super Kings (CSK) have started planning for the 2027 Indian Premier League (IPL) season by making significant changes to their coaching setup. On October 26, the franchise parted ways with Eric Simmons, Tommy Simsek, Rajiv Kumar, Greg King and Michael Hussey. A day later, CSK announced three new appointments, bringing Mohit Sharma on board as bowling coach and naming Gareth Batty and Albie Morkel as assistant coaches.

Mohit Sharma and Albie Morkel return to CSK

Former CSK fast bowler Mohit Sharma has taken up a new role with the franchise, having been appointed as its bowling coach. The team officially announced his arrival on social media, highlighting his previous contributions in yellow.

CSK welcomed Mohit with a message recalling his IPL debut for the franchise in 2013 and his Purple Cap-winning campaign in 2014. The franchise also praised his effective slower deliveries and variations, expressing its excitement about having him back to help develop the next generation of players.

Albie Morkel, another former CSK player, has also returned to the franchise as an assistant coach. The South African all-rounder was part of the team's title-winning campaigns in 2010 and 2011, when CSK secured consecutive IPL championships.

Announcing his appointment, the franchise celebrated Morkel's memorable contributions at Chepauk and described his return as the continuation of a long-standing association with the Super Kings.

Gareth Batty joins as assistant coach

CSK have also brought in Gareth Batty, who previously coached Surrey to three consecutive County Championship titles. The former England international will serve as an assistant coach, adding his coaching experience and tactical knowledge to the team's setup.

Welcoming Batty, CSK highlighted his record with Surrey and his experience in developing players, expressing confidence in his contribution to the franchise.

CSK turn attention to IPL 2027 preparations

With the new coaching appointments in place, CSK will turn their attention to building a squad for the 2027 season. The franchise's coaching staff is expected to work alongside head coach Zaheer Khan, former captain MS Dhoni and current skipper Ruturaj Gaikwad as the team evaluates its retention and release decisions.

According to the schedule cited in reports, franchises must submit their retention lists by November 15, while the IPL 2027 mini-auction is scheduled for December 16, 2026.

IPL 2027: Dada-Yuvraj May Release These 6 Big Players From Delhi Capitals

Shivam Sharma — Tue, 27 Oct 2026 10:16:04 +0530

Delhi Capitals could make significant changes to their squad ahead of IPL 2027, with six players potentially facing the axe. Franchises are reportedly required to submit their lists of retained and released players by November 15, while the mini-auction is scheduled for December 16 in Goa. With preparations underway, attention has turned to the decisions Delhi might take based on player performances and team requirements.

Head coach Sourav Ganguly and batting and assistant coach Yuvraj Singh could be involved in evaluating the squad ahead of the new season. Karun Nair, Prithvi Shaw, Rehan Ahmed, Dushmantha Chameera, Kyle Jamieson and Aaqib Nabi Dar are among the players whose futures could be reviewed. However, Delhi Capitals have not officially confirmed any releases.

1. Karun Nair

Karun Nair featured in two matches for Delhi Capitals during IPL 2026, scoring just 18 runs at an average of nine. The franchise could reassess his place in the squad before the next season.

2. Prithvi Shaw

Delhi Capitals acquired Prithvi Shaw for ₹75 lakh, but the batter did not feature in a single match during IPL 2026. His lack of playing opportunities could prompt the franchise to reconsider his future.

3. Rehan Ahmed

The England leg-spinner joined Delhi Capitals as a replacement for Ben Duckett but did not get an opportunity to play during the 2026 season. The franchise may review his role while planning its squad for IPL 2027.

4. Dushmantha Chameera

Sri Lankan fast bowler Dushmantha Chameera was also part of the Delhi Capitals squad. With limited opportunities during IPL 2026, the franchise could reassess its pace-bowling options ahead of the next campaign.

5. Kyle Jamieson

New Zealand pacer Kyle Jamieson played two matches in IPL 2026, scoring 12 runs and taking two wickets. His economy rate stood at 12.86, and Delhi could consider these performances while making retention decisions.

6. Aaqib Nabi Dar

Delhi Capitals spent ₹8.40 crore to acquire Aaqib Nabi Dar. He played five matches during IPL 2026, scoring 14 runs without taking a wicket. The franchise could evaluate his contribution and decide whether to retain him for the upcoming season.

IPL 2027 Retention Deadline And Auction Date Revealed

Shivam Sharma — Tue, 27 Oct 2026 09:42:12 +0530

All 10 franchises have started preparing for the 20th edition of the Indian Premier League (IPL), scheduled for 2027. The mini-auction for the upcoming season is reportedly set to take place in Goa on December 16, 2026. Before the auction, teams must submit their lists of retained and released players, with the deadline reportedly fixed for November 15, 2026.

Several high-profile names could be part of the release lists this time. Meanwhile, the trade window is open, allowing franchises to strengthen their squads through player exchanges. Rishabh Pant has moved from Lucknow Super Giants to Delhi Capitals, while Kuldeep Yadav has switched from Delhi Capitals to Lucknow Super Giants.

IPL 2027 Trade Window: How Long Will It Remain Open?

The IPL trading window remains open until one week before the auction. It reopens one week after the auction and continues until approximately one month before the tournament begins.

Several prominent players, including Hardik Pandya, Abhishek Sharma, Yashasvi Jaiswal and Sam Curran, have been linked with potential trades. However, only two deals involving four players have reportedly been completed so far.

Also Read | Rohit Sharma's Career Almost Ended In 2017; 8-Year-Long Saga Explained

Several Star Players Could Be Released

With the IPL 2027 auction approaching, franchises could make significant changes to their squads.

Mumbai Indians may consider releasing big names such as Suryakumar Yadav and Hardik Pandya. Delhi Capitals could part ways with Karun Nair, Prithvi Shaw, Rehan Ahmed, Dushmantha Chameera, Kyle Jamieson and Aaqib Nabi Dar.

Also Read | Just 1 Run, Huge Uproar! Team Complains To BCCI Over Controversial Defeat

Gujarat Titans may also review the futures of Luke Wood, Rahul Tewatia and Shahrukh Khan. Even defending champions Royal Challengers Bengaluru could release two players ahead of the auction.

The coming weeks could therefore prove crucial, as franchises finalise their retention decisions and assess their options before the IPL 2027 mini-auction.

MS Dhoni Reveals What Has Made RCB Better Than CSK

Shivam Sharma — Sun, 25 Oct 2026 09:50:33 +0530

Chennai Super Kings icon MS Dhoni has acknowledged Royal Challengers Bengaluru's impressive rise in Indian Premier League, with the franchise enjoying consecutive successful seasons. Reflecting on the contrasting fortunes of RCB and CSK, Dhoni admitted that there is little doubt that the defending champions have been performing better in recent times.

The former CSK captain also expressed optimism about his team's prospects for IPL 2027, hoping Chennai can deliver a stronger campaign next season. Dhoni made these remarks while attending a healthcare event in Bengaluru.

Dhoni did not feature in IPL 2026 because of fitness concerns, leaving fans eager to know what lies ahead for the veteran cricketer and his future with CSK.

'How good you are on paper hardly matters'

MS Dhoni said, "I always felt you know, how good you are on paper hardly matters. How good you are on that particular day is something, which is the most important. And the shorter the format, the narrower is the margin between the best of teams. And the last 2 years, we have struggled, and it is a fact. You know, there is no point shying away from the fact that RCB has done really, really well."

"That is how life is. You have good times, you have bad times, but you know how to come out of it, what things you want to work on as a team, those are crucial things. Because you know, when we are winning, we knew that there will come a point when we will start losing, and the real test of character is when you're not doing well. So, RCB have consistently performed in the last couple of years, and we have not done that in the last couple of years," he added.

Dhoni said he hopes CSK can avoid injury setbacks in the upcoming season, allowing the available players to remain fit and feature consistently throughout IPL 2027.

"It makes life slightly easy, when people understand their role and responsibility. So we hope for another close one so that, you know, next time when we come over here (in Bengaluru for a clash against RCB), we can say that, okay, you know, 2027, we had another close game which was a lot of fun for the spectators," he said.

"Because at the end of the day, we are entertainers, you know, we come over here and entertain. And another reason why we as a batsman, why we all the batsmen love Bangalore is, you know, the ball travels over. You know, this is one venue if you hit the ball, you know, it goes for a six. Even if you are strong, you mistime a ball, there are chances it may go for a six."

"I feel batsmen, they love it. And bowlers, they somehow, they are under the pump; they are under pressure, but they also, you know, in a way they accept that, okay, this is one venue where, you know, if you do decently well, you are regarded as a good bowler. So they turn the heat up on the batsmen, say, you know, we are expecting - you are expected to hit us. So it is a very nice venue overall, you know, high-scoring but a lot of fun," he signed off.