IPL 2026 Archives - National Times

03 Jan

KKR Releases Mustafizur Rahman Following BCCI Directive Amid India-Bangladesh Strain

Rajeev Sharma0 CommentsIndia, SportsBCCI directive, IPL 2026, Kolkata Knight Riders, Mustafizur Rahman

Kolkata, January 3: Bangladesh fast bowler Mustafizur Rahman has been released by Indian Premier League franchise Kolkata Knight Riders after the Board of Control for Cricket in India directed the team to do so in view of escalating diplomatic tensions between India and Bangladesh. The three-time IPL champions had secured the services of the 30-year-old left-arm pacer for ₹9.20 crore at last month’s auction, following a competitive bidding process involving Chennai Super Kings and Delhi Capitals. Rahman had entered the auction with a base price of ₹2 crore and was set to feature for KKR for the first time in…

IPL 2026 Auction Set to Feature 350 Players; Quinton de Kock Joins Lineup

Rajeev Sharma0 CommentsSports, TrendingIPL 2026, Quinton de Kock

Mumbai (Rajeev Sharma): The Indian Premier League 2026 auction is gearing up to be a major event with 350 players shortlisted to compete for 77 spots across the 10 franchises. The auction is scheduled to take place in Abu Dhabi on December 16, featuring a mix of seasoned internationals and emerging Indian talent. South African wicketkeeper-batter Quinton de Kock, who recently returned from ODI retirement, has been added to the final list at a base price of ₹1 crore, making him one of the most talked-about names in this year’s pool. Australia’s Steve Smith, returning to the IPL after last…

Rahul Dravid Steps Down as Rajasthan Royals Head Coach Ahead of IPL 2026

Rajeev Sharma0 CommentsSportsIPL 2026, Rahul Dravid, Rajasthan Royals, Sanju Samson

Jaipur, August 30, 2025: Rajasthan Royals confirmed on Saturday that head coach Rahul Dravid will step down before the 2026 Indian Premier League season, after declining a “broader role” within the franchise.Dravid, who was appointed head coach ahead of the 2025 season, ends his latest stint with the Royals at a time when speculation also surrounds skipper Sanju Samson’s future with the team. Reports suggest Samson may be looking to part ways, potentially leaving the franchise in a difficult position ahead of the upcoming mini auction.In an official statement posted on X, the Royals praised Dravid’s long association with the…