South Africa all-rounder Wiaan Mulder believes the demands of modern cricket are making it unsustainable for players to excel across all three formats. Playing for Texas Super Kings in Major League Cricket, Mulder also discussed the growth of cricket in the US, the benefits of South Africa's multi-sport culture, and the impact of the SA20 league.
Australia's Nestory Irankunda is a key player, and squad rotation is vital due to injuries. Playing for a draw against Paraguay could secure progression. The USA needs midfield rotation to break down defenses and should avoid complacency after their strong opening win, preparing for a tough match against Australia.
Former India batter Sanjay Manjrekar expressed concerns about the IPL's Impact Player rule, arguing it hinders the development of young talents like Vaibhav Sooryavanshi by creating one-dimensional players. He believes cricketers should contribute across disciplines.
Former India batter Sanjay Manjrekar expressed concerns about the IPL's Impact Player rule, suggesting it hinders the development of young talents like Vaibhav Sooryavanshi by creating one-dimensional players.
MI head coach Mahela Jayawardene has stated that Rohit Sharma is "100% fit" despite concerns over his hamstring injury. Jayawardene also discussed Jasprit Bumrah's performance dip due to a niggle and fatigue from the T20 World Cup, and Hardik Pandya's frustrating season.
Rajasthan Royals assistant coach Trevor Penny defended the team's use of 15-year-old Vaibhav Sooryavanshi solely as an 'Impact Player.' Despite criticism from former Indian cricketers Sanjay Manjrekar and Mohammed Kaif regarding fielding development, Penny stated Sooryavanshi is a good fielder and the role keeps him fresh for batting, highlighting his unique composure and talent.
Sanjay Manjrekar expresses concern over Vaibhav Sooryavanshi's limited role as an Impact Player in IPL 2026. He argues that restricting the 15-year-old to just batting hinders his overall cricketing development, emphasizing the importance of fielding experience and pressure situations for a complete cricketer.
Sanjay Manjrekar expresses concern over Vaibhav Sooryavanshi's limited role as an Impact Player in IPL 2026. He argues that restricting the 15-year-old to just batting hinders his overall cricketing development, emphasizing the importance of fielding experience and pressure situations for a complete cricketer.
Sanjay Manjrekar expresses concern over Vaibhav Sooryavanshi's limited role as an Impact Player in IPL 2026. He argues that restricting the 15-year-old to just batting hinders his overall cricketing development, emphasizing the importance of fielding experience and pressure situations for a complete cricketer.
Punjab's Raghu Sharma made his IPL debut as an Impact Player for Mumbai Indians against Chennai Super Kings on May 2. The 33-year-old leg-spinner, a product of persistent domestic efforts, finally earned his maiden cap after a long journey. Sharma's inclusion highlighted MI's strategic moves amidst a challenging season, as they sought to bounce back from a previous heavy defeat.
Shardul Thakur came in as a concussion substitute for Mitchell Santner during Mumbai Indians' chase against Chennai Super Kings in IPL 2026. Santner was injured in the first innings while attempting a catch. Earlier, Sanju Samson scored his fifth IPL century (101* from 54 balls) to help CSK post 207/6. Mumbai were struggling at 95/7 when the article was written.
Mumbai Indians captain Rohit Sharma is recovering from a hamstring injury sustained on April 12 and his availability for the April 23 match against Chennai Super Kings will be decided before the toss. He batted in nets on Wednesday but avoided big shots during a controlled 25-minute session, indicating a cautious recovery approach. If deemed fit to bat but not field, he could serve as an Impact Player. Rohit is the leading run-scorer in MI-CSK rivalry with 913 runs. MI leads the head-to-head 21-18, though CSK has won 5 of their last 6 meetings.
Chennai Super Kings are preparing to face Mumbai Indians at Wankhede Stadium on April 23, 2026, with the biggest question being whether MS Dhoni will return from a calf strain that has kept him out of the first six matches. Dhoni has been training intensively at the venue, completing nearly 40 minutes of batting and wicketkeeping drills, but a final decision will only be made just before the toss. CSK bowling consultant Eric Simons confirmed Dhoni will only play if both he and the medical staff are fully satisfied with his fitness. Captain Ruturaj Gaikwad stated Dhoni is "slowly and steadily" regaining full fitness and could return as an Impact Player to manage his workload.
MS Dhoni's return to IPL action remains uncertain as Chennai Super Kings prepare to face Mumbai Indians at Wankhede Stadium on April 23, 2026. The veteran cricketer has been recovering from a calf strain that sidelined him for the first six matches of the season. Dhoni completed a 40-minute training session including batting and wicketkeeping drills, but a final decision on his participation will only be made before the toss. CSK bowling consultant Eric Simons stated the decision would depend on Dhoni and the medical staff being fully satisfied with his fitness.
Sunrisers Hyderabad bowling coach Varun Aaron backed Abhishek Sharma through his lean phase after the opener scored a match-winning unbeaten 135 against Delhi Capitals. Aaron emphasized that high-risk, high-reward players need leeway during inconsistent periods. Abhishek's 68-ball masterclass powered SRH to a 47-run victory, with Eshan Malinga taking four wickets and young pacer Sakib Hussain impressing with his variations.
