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IPL 2026: Defending champions RCB begin title defence against SRH at Chinnaswamy | Cricket News

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IPL 2026: Defending champions RCB begin title defence against SRH at Chinnaswamy
Ishan Kishan and Virat Kohli (Image credit: BCCI/IPL)

BENGALURU: Until June 3, 2025, Royal Challengers Bengaluru carried the tag of underachievers — a team that spent 17 previous seasons chasing an elusive trophy. On a muggy night in Ahmedabad, that narrative finally shifted. Built less on individual stardom and more on collective performances, RCB shed their long-standing baggage and got the monkey off their backs.When they return to the M Chinnaswamy Stadium on Saturday evening, they do so with a title to defend, a reputation to protect and expectations recalibrated. Against fellow southerners Sunrisers Hyderabad, RCB begin their campaign as defending champions — a feat only Chennai Super Kings and Mumbai Indians have managed to follow up with a successful title defence.

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While it is a long season ahead, a strong start will be crucial. Chinnaswamy hasn’t always been a fortress for RCB, and against an SRH side packed with explosive batters, the challenge is immediate.On paper, the two teams share striking similarities. Both boast formidable batting units, both are without their premier Australian quicks, and they will rely on a blend of experienced Indian names and promising youngsters. The conditions only add to the intrigue. The last completed IPL game at the venue last season — RCB’s clash against CSK — saw a staggering 424 runs scored, with the hosts defending 215 by just two runs. If the surface stays true to its batting-friendly reputation, bowlers from both sides could be in for a long evening.RCB have largely retained the core that delivered their maiden title, using the mini-auction to plug specific gaps. The additions of Venkatesh Iyer and England’s Jordan Cox bring flexibility, while young Indian recruits like Mangesh Yadav and Vihaan Malhotra add depth and future promise.

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Their batting remains their biggest strength. With Virat Kohli and Phil Salt expected to set the tone at the top, Jacob Bethell’s recent form adds another dynamic layer. The middle order is stacked with experience and firepower in Rajat Patidar, Devdutt Padikkal, Jitesh Sharma, Tim David and Venkatesh Iyer. The team management, in fact, faces the enviable headache of narrowing down a balanced playing XI.However, the absence of Josh Hazlewood — their most impactful bowler last season — could be a significant setback. The Australian pacer, still working his way back from injury concerns, only rejoined the squad on Thursday and will sit out of the match. His absence puts the onus on Bhuvneshwar Kumar to lead the attack, especially in conditions that traditionally offer little margin for error. RCB are also without Sri Lankan quick Nuwan Thushara, who is yet to clear the fitness test in his home country. In Hazlewood’s absence, New Zealand pacer Jacob Duffy could be handed an IPL debut. He is expected to slot into an otherwise Indian-heavy bowling unit, with youngsters Mangesh Yadav and Rasikh Dar pushing for inclusion. The spin department, featuring Krunal Pandya and Suyash Sharma, will also have a key role in controlling the middle overs.SRH, meanwhile, look equally formidable with the bat. Led by Ishan Kishan, they have a destructive line-up comprising Abhishek Sharma, Travis Head, Heinrich Klaasen and Nitish Reddy. However, their bowling appears relatively undercooked in the absence of regular skipper Pat Cummins, even though they can call upon the experience of Harshal Patel, Brydon Carse and Jaydev Unadkat.Away from the on-field contest, it will be a sombre homecoming for RCB. The players will wear black armbands in memory of the 11 lives lost in the stampede during last year’s title celebrations — a tragedy that continues to cast a shadow over the team and the venue.

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Tiger Woods released on bail after DUI charge relating to Florida car crash

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Tiger Woods has been released on bail after being charged with driving under the influence following his involvement in a car crash in Florida.

The 15-time major winner was taken to jail after his Land Rover rolled over in a collision with a pick-up truck towing a trailer he was attempting to overtake on Jupiter Island.

Woods walked away unhurt but was described as “lethargic” by officers, questioned at the scene and later refused to submit to a urine test.

The 50-year-old was kept in jail for eight hours before being released on bond.

Martin County Sheriff’s Office confirmed that Woods had been released in the early hours of Saturday morning.

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Sheriff John Budensiek told reporters Woods had also been charged with property damage and refusal to submit to a lawful test. The offences are not felonies.

Budensiek said: “The DUI investigators came to the scene and Mr Woods did exemplify signs of impairment.

“They did several tests on him. He did explain the injuries and surgeries that he’s had and we did take that into account, but they did some in-depth roadside tests.

“When it was determined, he was placed under arrest and taken to the Martin County jail.

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“At the Martin County jail, and even on scene, we were really not suspicious of alcohol being involved in this case and that proved to be true.

“Mr Woods did a breathalyser test with triple zeros, but when it came time for us to ask for a urinary analysis test, he refused and so he has been charged with DUI, property damage and refusal to submit to a lawful test.”

Budensiek added officers believed Woods was “impaired on medication”.

He said Woods had been driving at “high speed” and his vehicle tipped on to its side and then “slid for a pretty decent space before he came to a stop”.

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The speed limit on the road in question was 30mph.

The driver of the other vehicle, who had been slowing to turn into a driveway off the two-lane road, was also unhurt.

Woods underwent emergency surgery after suffering multiple leg injuries following a serious car accident in California in February 2021.

He was sidelined for 15 months and his appearances since have been sporadic due to numerous other injury setbacks.

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He was also arrested on suspicion of DUI offences in 2017 after being found asleep at the wheel of his car in Jupiter, Florida. He later pleaded guilty to reckless driving after it emerged he had had five prescription drugs in his system at the time.

In 2009 he crashed his car into a fire hydrant and tree outside his home an incident that led to a spectacular unravelling of his private life.

This latest accident comes after Woods returned to competitive action for the first time in over a year on the final night of play in the indoor TGL competition on Tuesday.

Woods had said afterwards that he hoped he would be fit enough to play at the Masters next month.

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Commenting on the crash, United States president Donald Trump told reporters: “I feel so badly. He’s got some difficulty.

“There was an accident. That’s all I know. He’s a very close friend of mine, he’s an amazing person, an amazing man.”

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Tiger Woods’s latest car accident leads back to same difficult conclusion

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Why Vaibhav Sooryavanshi being ‘not 14 anymore’ is a big deal | Cricket News

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Why Vaibhav Sooryavanshi being 'not 14 anymore' is a big deal
Vaibhav Sooryavanshi (Image credit: ICC)

NEW DELHI: Young batting sensation Vaibhav Sooryavanshi has made headlines time and again – and for good reason. With his swashbuckling batting style, brute power, effortless six-hitting, and ability to dismantle bowling attacks, he has become a fan favourite in no time.The past year, in particular, has been remarkable for the youngster. And heading into IPL 2026, there is a significant change – he is no longer 14.

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Impact Player Rule: Game-changer or all-rounder killer?

Sooryavanshi turned 15 on Friday (March 27), celebrating his birthday just a day before the start of IPL 2026.Is he eligible to play for Team India (senior team)?Questions like – Is Sooryavanshi eligible to play for India’s senior team? Will he break into the side? When will he make his debut? – have been asked repeatedly.Now, with the youngster officially turning 15, he is eligible to feature in senior international cricket as per ICC’s player eligibility regulations (Article 4).According to INTERNATIONAL CRICKET COUNCIL PLAYER ELIGIBILITY REGULATIONS ARTICLE 4, ELIGIBILITY ON THE BASIS OF AGE 4.1 states, “ARTICLE 4 ELIGIBILITY ON THE BASIS OF AGE, “A Player will only be eligible to represent a National Cricket Federation in an International Match (including ICC Events and U19 Events) if he/she is aged 15 or over on the relevant squad submission date (in the case of ICC Events including U19 Events) or on the date of the first match of the series/tournament to the played (in the case of all other International Matches). “Following the introduction of these regulations in November 2020, the ICC made 15 the minimum age requirement for participation in international cricket (U19 level and above), keeping in mind the welfare and physical safety of minors, including during travel.Will an India call-up come soon for Sooryavanshi? That remains to be seen.The youngster grabbed global attention with his stellar performances in his debut IPL season in 2025.In just his second IPL match, he smashed a sensational 100 off 35 balls.His heroics in the U19 World Cup 2026, along with impressive outings in the Vijay Hazare Trophy 2025-26 and the Ranji Trophy 2025, were outstanding.Following his IPL success, Sooryavanshi was drafted into the India U19 setup, where he continued to shine.U19 World Cup 2026 (Player of the Tournament): Sooryavanshi led India to their sixth title, highlighted by a stunning 175 off 80 balls (including 15 sixes) in the final against England.Vijay Hazare Trophy 2025-26: He became the youngest player to score a List A century at 14 years and 272 days. During a blistering 190 off 84 balls against Arunachal Pradesh, he broke AB de Villiers’ record for the fastest 150 in List A cricket, reaching the milestone in just 59 balls.Ranji Trophy 2025-26: Named Bihar’s vice-captain at 14, he scored his maiden first-class fifty with a 67-ball 93 against Meghalaya, narrowly missing out on becoming the youngest Ranji centurion.Syed Mushtaq Ali Trophy 2025-26: He continued his white-ball dominance with an unbeaten 108 and a composed fifty (50 off 34 balls) against Maharashtra, showing improved maturity in pacing his innings.Rising Stars Asia Cup (Doha): Representing India A, he smashed a “whirlwind” 144 off 42 balls against the UAE.

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Tiger Woods Faces DUI Charge After Car Crash in Florida

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Tiger Woods has been charged with driving under the influence following a car accident in Florida, according to local authorities.

The Martin County Sheriff’s Office confirmed that the 15-time major winner also faces charges of property damage and refusing to take a lawful test after the incident.

The crash happened on Beach Road in Jupiter Island on Friday afternoon. Woods was reportedly driving at speed when he attempted to overtake a vehicle and struck a pressure cleaning truck, causing his car to overturn.

  • Alcaraz, Dembélé, Sinner among Laureus Sportsman of the Year NomineesAlcaraz, Dembélé, Sinner among Laureus Sportsman of the Year Nominees

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Police said the golfer had to exit the vehicle through the passenger side. Fortunately, no injuries were recorded.

Authorities revealed that Woods passed a breathalyser test at the scene, showing no trace of alcohol. However, he declined to undergo a urine test, which led to an additional charge.

Speaking at a press briefing, Sheriff John Budensiek explained that officers observed signs of possible impairment and carried out several roadside checks before deciding to arrest Woods. He noted that although alcohol was ruled out, the refusal to complete further testing means investigators may not determine what caused the impairment.

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Woods was later taken to a local jail, where he is expected to remain for several hours before being released on bond. Officials confirmed that the charges against him are misdemeanours.

Reacting to the development, Donald Trump expressed concern for the golfer, describing him as a close friend and wishing him well following the accident.

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Trump says he feels ‘so badly’ after Tiger Woods’ rollover crash in Florida

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President Donald Trump addressed the daytime rollover crash involving Tiger Woods Friday that resulted in the 15-time major winner being arrested on a DUI charge after authorities suspected he was driving impaired. 

Speaking to reporters after arriving in Miami, the president spoke briefly about Woods. He said he was only aware of the accident at the time he made his remarks. 

Tiger Woods flipped car accident

Golfer Tiger Woods stands by his overturned vehicle in Jupiter Island, Fla., Friday, March 27, 2026.  (Jason Oteri/AP)

“I feel so badly. He’s got some difficulty,” Trump said. “There was an accident, and that’s all I know. Very close friend of mine. He’s an amazing person, an amazing man, but some difficulty.”

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Woods is in a relationship with the president’s former daughter-in-law, Vanessa Trump.

He competed in the TGL championship earlier this week, where Vanessa Trump and her daughter, Kai Trump, were spotted in the stands. It was Woods’ return to competitive golf after he ruptured his Achilles last year ahead of the Masters.

Trump previously spoke out about the pair’s relationship, saying he gave Woods his blessing when they first spoke about it. 

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Tiger Woods and Donald Trump

President Donald Trump presents the Presidential Medal of Freedom to Tiger Woods during an event at the White House in the Rose Garden.  (Scott Taetsch/USA Today Sports)

“He told me about it, and I said, ‘Tiger, that’s good, that’s good. I’m very happy for both.’ But they just let them both be happy. Let them both be happy. They’re both great,” Trump said in March 2025. 

TIGER WOODS ARRESTED ON DUI CHARGE IN FLORIDA AFTER ROLLOVER CRASH: ‘THIS COULD’VE BEEN A LOT WORSE’

Woods was charged with DUI, property damage and refusal to submit to a test after law enforcement said his vehicle collided with another vehicle Friday afternoon while he was driving impaired.

“DUI investigators came to the scene here, and Mr. Woods did exemplify signs of impairment. They did several tests on him. Of course, he did explain the injuries and the surgeries that he had. We did take that into account, but they did do some in-depth roadside tests,” Martin County Sheriff John Budensiek said during a news conference Friday.

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Tiger Woods rollover crash

This photo provided by the Martin County Sheriff’s Office shows skid marks near the overturned vehicle in a rollover crash involving Tiger Woods in Jupiter Island, Fla., Friday, March 27, 2026.  (Martin County Sheriff’s Office via AP)

“We really weren’t suspicious of alcohol being involved in this case, and that proved to be true at the jail. … But when it came time for us to ask for a urinalysis test, he refused. And, so, he’s been charged with DUI, with property damage and refusal to submit to a lawful test.”

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The five-time Augusta National winner was noncommittal about playing at this year’s Masters recently, but Trump said during an interview on “The Five” Thursday that Woods would be at Augusta but would not play.

Fox News Digital’s Ryan Morik contributed to this report. 

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3 players who could pick up the most wickets in today’s RCB vs SRH match

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The 19th edition of IPL 2026 will kick off on Saturday, March 28. Defending champions Royal Challengers Bengaluru (RCB) will lock horns with the SunRisers Hyderabad (SRH) in the season opener at their fortress – M Chinnaswamy Stadium in Bengaluru.

The Rajat Patidar-led side will have a challenging game as they are without their premier bowler, Josh Hazlewood, for their opening game. Meanwhile, Yash Dayal is unavailable for the entire season due to personal reasons. There are also question marks about Nuwan Thusara, who is yet to receive a No Objection Certificate (NOC) from Sri Lanka Cricket (SLC) due to fitness issues.

Similarly, SRH will be without their regular captain and ace pacer, Pat Cummins. They recently replaced injured Jack Edwards with David Payne. In this article, we take a look at three bowlers who might emerge as the leading wicket-takers in the opening game of the 2026 season. Take a look below:

Harshal Patel

Harshal Patel - Source: GettyHarshal Patel - Source: Getty
Harshal Patel – Source: Getty

Harshal Patel is often known as Purple Patel owing to his promising record in the IPL. The speedster has scalped 151 wickets in 119 matches at an economy rate of 8.86. The 35-year-old is only third active pacer to bag more than 150 wickets in the tournament after Bhuvneshwar Kumar (198) and Jasprit Bumrah (183). Notably, Patel took 32 and 24 wickets in the 2021 and 2024 editions for RCB and Punjab Kings (PBKS), respectively.

Harshal is known for his ability to vary pace, which yields him the results, particularly in the death overs. The Gujarat-born pacer took 16 wickets in 13 matches at an economy rate of 9.80, including two four-fers in IPL 2025. Against RCB, he has scalped seven wickets in six games at an economy rate of 10.91, including 3/38. The SunRisers retained for INR 8 crore ahead of IPL 2026 auction.

Krunal Pandya

Krunal Pandya - Source: GettyKrunal Pandya - Source: Getty
Krunal Pandya – Source: Getty

Krunal Pandya proved to be one of the Most Valuable Players (MVPs) for RCB last season. The left-arm spinner picked up 17 wickets in 15 matches at an economy rate of 8.23. With 3/29 against the Kolkata Knight Riders (KKR), he made an impressive debut for the Bengaluru-based franchise before returning with career-best figures of 4/45 against the Mumbai Indians (MI).

Pandya is equally effective in the powerplay as in the slog overs. With 93 scalps in 142 games, he’s on the verge of completing his 100 wickets in the T20 league. The 2025 champions retained him for INR 5.75 crore ahead of the IPL 2026 season.

Shivam Mavi

Shivam Mavi - Source: GettyShivam Mavi - Source: Getty
Shivam Mavi – Source: Getty

SRH bought Shivam Mavi at a steal of INR 75 lakh at the IPL 2026 auction. The medium pacer has established a solid experience during his stint with KKR from 2018 to 2022, picking up 30 wickets in 32 matches at an economy rate of 8.70. He then warmed the bench with the Gujarat Titans (GT) before an injury cut short his stint with the Lucknow Super Giants (LSG) in 2024. As a result, Mavi will be keen to make the most of his comeback. Earlier this year, he picked up 7/59 against Vidarbha in a first-class match.

Besides IPL, Mavi has also tasted international experience. In addition, he has represented India in six T20Is, picking up seven wickets at an economy rate of 8.78. With skipper Cummins ruled out of the first matches for the SunRisers, Mavi might be Harshal’s new partner in crime in the fast-bowling department. While Harshal will try to create pressure from the other end, Mavi could be one bearing the fruit.

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