Ayush Badoni Becomes Second Indian Batter to Score 1000 IPL Runs for LSG Ayush Badoni achieved a significant milestone in the Indian Premier League (IPL) on April 9, 2026, by becoming the second Indian batter to score 1,000 runs for Lucknow Super Giants (LSG). The 26-year-old right-handed batsman reached this mark during the IPL 2026 match against Kolkata Knight Riders (KKR), where he played a pivotal role in LSG’s 182-run chase. Badoni needed 25 runs to join the 1,000-run club for LSG and accomplished the feat in the 12th over of the innings, solidifying his place in the franchise’s history. This accomplishment places Badoni in an elite group of players who have consistently performed for LSG. KL Rahul, the first Indian batter to reach 1,000 runs for the team, was signed by LSG ahead of the IPL 2022 mega auction. Rahul, a 33-year-old right-handed batter from Bengaluru, played 38 IPL matches for LSG between 2022 and 2024, accumulating 1,410 runs. Badoni’s achievement now matches Rahul’s status as the second Indian to achieve this feat for the franchise. Badoni’s journey with LSG began in 2022, and his consistent performances have earned him recognition. As of April 9, 2026, he had played 59 IPL matches for LSG, scoring 6 half-centuries. In the ongoing IPL 2026 season, Badoni has participated in three matches, contributing 39 runs. His career totals for LSG span across four seasons: 161 runs in 2022, 238 in 2023, 235 in 2024, and 329 in 2025. His performance in the 2025 season alone was a standout, as he scored 329 runs in 11 innings across 14 matches. Badoni’s milestone also places him in the company of other notable players who have reached the 1,000-run mark for LSG. Nicholas Pooran, a former West Indies batter, was the first to join this elite list last year, with 1,403 runs.#ipl_2026 #kolkata_knight_riders #kl_rahul #lsg #ayush_badoni
IPL 2026: Ayush Badoni Joins Elite List Featuring KL Rahul, Nicholas Pooran Lucknow Super Giants (LSG) player Ayush Badoni made history by becoming the third batter in the Indian Premier League (IPL) to score 1,000 runs for his franchise. The milestone was achieved during LSG’s match against the Kolkata Knight Riders (KKR) on April 12, 2026, at Eden Gardens in Kolkata. Badoni, a right-handed batsman, needed 25 runs to reach the 1,000-run mark for LSG and accomplished it in the 12th over of his team’s innings during a 182-run chase. His performance included a blistering 54 off 34 balls, featuring seven fours and two sixes. Badoni now stands at 1,029 runs in 59 matches for LSG, averaging 26.38. He joins KL Rahul, who was the first LSG batter to reach the 1,000-run milestone in the IPL, and Nicholas Pooran, a former West Indies player who achieved the feat for LSG last year. This marks Badoni as the second Indian batter to cross the 1,000-run threshold for the franchise. The match itself was a thrilling encounter, with LSG securing a three-wicket victory over KKR. The win marked LSG’s second triumph of the IPL 2026 season. The team’s success was built on twin half-centuries from Badoni and Mukul Choudhary, who anchored the innings and ensured a comfortable chase. The victory also highlighted LSG’s resilience, as they overcame a challenging target set by KKR’s formidable batting lineup. The IPL 2026 season has seen several milestones and dramatic moments. Earlier in the tournament, Punjab Kings defeated Sunrisers Hyderabad by six wickets in a match at New Chandigarh on April 11, 2026. Punjab’s victory was fueled by a strong performance from their bowlers, who restricted Sunrisers to 219/6 in 20 overs.#ipl_2026 #kl_rahul #lsg #ayush_badoni #nicholas_pooran
CSK's First Win Of IPL 2026 Marred By Controversy, Delhi Capitals Camp Upset With Umpire Decision The Chennai Super Kings secured their first victory of the IPL 2026 season on Saturday, defeating Delhi Capitals by 23 runs at the MA Chidambaram Stadium. However, the win was overshadowed by a significant controversy involving the umpire’s decision to deny Tristan Stubbs the opportunity to change his gloves during the penultimate over of Delhi’s innings. The incident sparked heated exchanges between Delhi Capitals’ coach Hemang Badani, batters Nitish Rana, and Karun Nair, and it ultimately proved decisive in the match’s outcome. Delhi Capitals were set a target of 213 runs after Chennai Super Kings posted 212 for 2 in 20 overs. The Capitals began their chase strongly, scoring 61 runs in the first five overs through a partnership between openers KL Rahul and Pathum Nissanka (41). However, Nissanka’s dismissal on the fifth over, after a controversial catch by Khaleel Ahmed, disrupted their momentum. Delhi’s innings continued to struggle as Chennai’s bowlers adjusted their strategy, focusing on extracting bounce and restricting space on the red-soil pitch. The turning point came in the penultimate over, where Tristan Stubbs, who had earlier smashed a 38-ball 60 to keep Delhi in the hunt, signaled for a change of gloves. The fourth umpire, however, denied the request, leading to a confrontation between the DC camp and the officials. Stubbs was dismissed on the very next ball, leaving Delhi at 183 for 8 in 20 overs. The decision sparked outrage, with social media platforms erupting in reaction to the umpire’s call. Delhi Capitals’ coach Hemang Badani and players Nitish Rana and Karun Nair were visibly upset with the umpire’s decision, which they argued was a critical moment in their chase.#chennai_super_kings #delhi_capitals #tristan_stubbs #kl_rahul #hemang_badani
Cricket Thriller: Delhi Capitals' Last-Ball Heartbreak and David Miller's Dejection Delhi Capitals suffered a heartbreaking last-ball defeat against Gujarat Titans in a thrilling IPL match, leaving captain David Miller visibly dejected after missing a crucial run that could have secured a victory. The 14th league match of the 19th IPL season, held at the Arun Jaitley Stadium in Delhi, ended in a nail-biting finish that left fans and players alike in awe. Gujarat Titans, batting first, posted a formidable total of 210 runs for the loss of four wickets in 20 overs. Openers KL Rahul and Shubman Gill laid the foundation with a blistering partnership, scoring 76 runs off the first 10 overs. Gill, in particular, dazzled with a 70-run innings, while Rahul contributed 52. The innings was further bolstered by Washington Sundar, who scored an unbeaten half-century, taking the total to 210. Delhi Capitals, chasing 211, had a strong start with a 76-run partnership between Rahul Tewatia and Nishanthi Rana. However, the innings faltered as key players fell to Rashid Khan’s spin. Tewatia was dismissed for 41, followed by Nishanthi Rana (5), Samiullah Shinwari (0), and captain Axar Patel (2). Despite this, Rahul Tewatia remained composed, scoring 92 off 52 balls, including 11 boundaries and four sixes, before falling to Mohammed Siraj. With the score at 155 for 5 after 18 overs, Delhi needed 56 runs from the final two overs. Prasidh Krishna, the fast bowler, took the attack to the opposition, dismissing Vijay Shankar (12) in the 19th over. The 20th over, bowled by Mohammed Siraj, saw David Miller and Shubman Gill combine for 23 runs, including two sixes and two boundaries. The target was reduced to 13 runs from the final over. In the final over, bowled by Prasidh Krishna, Delhi needed 13 runs.#shubman_gill #arun_jaitley_stadium #delhi_capitals #gujarat_titans #kl_rahul
IPL 2026: Heartbreak for DC as Star Player Retires Hurt; KL Rahul Battles Alone in a Tricky 200+ Chase The Delhi Capitals’ pursuit of a daunting 211-run target took a devastating turn at the Arun Jaitley Stadium as their premier finisher, David Miller, was forced to leave the field retired hurt. In a match already defined by high-octane hitting and tactical brilliance, Miller’s departure in the 13th over shifted the momentum squarely in favor of the Gujarat Titans, despite a valiant effort from KL Rahul. Miller, known for his explosive finishing ability, came into bat during a high-pressure chase, determined to provide the late-innings fireworks DC desperately needed. However, the South African left-hander was visibly hampered by a painful injury to his left-hand finger, sustained during a dive in the field earlier in the evening. Despite a brief visit from the physio to tape the finger, Miller’s discomfort was evident after every shot. He struck a crisp boundary off Prasidh Krishna but was seen repeatedly shaking his hand in agony. Ultimately, after scoring 12 off 10 balls, the “Killer Miller” could not continue and walked back to the dugout, leaving a massive void in the Capitals’ batting lineup. The injury blow was compounded by the mastery of Rashid Khan, who delivered a knockout blow to the DC middle order. The “Vintage” leg-spinner finished his four-over spell with remarkable figures of 3-17, showcasing his ability to dismantle opposition attacks. Rashid’s final act was the dismissal of DC captain Axar Patel. After Miller retired hurt, Axar arrived at the crease only to be outsmarted by Rashid’s change of angle. A sharp catch by Glenn Phillips sent Axar packing for just 2, leaving the Capitals reeling at 134-4. Despite the setbacks, the game remains alive as long as KL Rahul is at the crease.#david_miller #arun_jaitley_stadium #delhi_capitals #gujarat_titans #kl_rahul
Delhi Capitals Face Gujarat Titans in IPL Clash Delhi Capitals and Gujarat Titans are set to clash in a high-stakes Indian Premier League encounter, with both teams grappling with batting inconsistencies but contrasting results. Delhi’s top order, featuring KL Rahul, Pathum Nissanka, and Nitish Rana, has struggled to find form in the tournament’s opening two matches. However, the team has managed to secure both victories, thanks to a standout performance from Sameer Rizvi. The Impact Player of both matches, Rizvi delivered crucial innings of 70 and 90, rescuing the Axar Patel-led side from precarious positions of 26/4 and 7/2. Despite the top order’s underwhelming start, Delhi’s ability to bounce back has kept them in contention. Gujarat Titans, on the other hand, have faced a different challenge. Their middle order has faltered in two consecutive losses, leaving the team reeling. In their match against Punjab Kings, the Titans slumped from a strong 86/1 to an average total of 162, failing to capitalize on their early dominance. Glenn Phillips, Rahul Tewatia, and Washington Sundar were unable to deliver the finishing touches, allowing Punjab to seize control. The hosts responded with a scintillating innings of 72 off 44 balls from Cooper Connolly, which propelled them to a victory. In the following match, Gujarat’s middle order once again let them down, as they failed to chase down a target of 211 against Rajasthan Royals. The upcoming match promises added intrigue due to weather conditions. Heavy rain lashed the National Capital on Tuesday, leaving the pitch under covers. This is likely to favor seamers early in the game, prompting potential adjustments in both teams’ bowling strategies. For Gujarat Titans, the match represents a chance to address their middle-order woes.#shubman_gill #delhi_capitals #gujarat_titans #kl_rahul #sameer_rizvi
Delhi Capitals and Gujarat Titans face off in a crucial IPL 2026 clash as both teams grapple with contrasting batting challenges. Delhi Capitals, sitting at the top of the points table with two wins, have masked persistent top-order struggles through the heroics of Sameer Rizvi. The right-handed opener has delivered two half-centuries—70* and a career-best 90—to salvage matches against Lucknow Super Giants and Punjab Kings. However, the team’s reliance on Rizvi has exposed vulnerabilities in their opening pair, with KL Rahul and Nitish Rana failing to establish dominance. Rahul, who has faced just five deliveries in two games, and Rana, struggling to assert authority at No. 3, have left the team dependent on Rizvi’s late interventions. Delhi’s management has resisted tinkering with the lineup, prioritizing stability over immediate fixes despite the risks of repeated collapses. Gujarat Titans, meanwhile, face a different crisis in their middle order. The team’s dependence on their top three has led to costly collapses in two consecutive matches. Despite reaching 119/2 against Punjab Kings and 127/2 against Rajasthan Royals, Gujarat’s middle-order batsmen failed to capitalize, scoring 58 and 30 runs respectively in the two games. Jos Buttler, the team’s usual No. 3, has struggled with form, averaging under 40 in his last 10 T20 innings. His poor performance has exacerbated Gujarat’s reliance on early momentum, leaving the middle order to absorb the brunt of pressure. The team’s inability to convert strong starts into competitive totals has derailed their campaign, with losses to Delhi Capitals and Rajasthan Royals highlighting the gap between their setup and execution. The upcoming match at Arun Jaitley Stadium presents a pivotal opportunity for both teams to address their issues.#delhi_capitals #gujarat_titans #kl_rahul #sameer_rizvi #mohd_siraj
KL Rahul’s Orange Cap push hinges on key batting reshuffle as Delhi Capitals told to do basic things in IPL 2026 Ravichandran Ashwin has publicly endorsed KL Rahul’s potential for a standout season in the 2026 Indian Premier League, suggesting that elevating the Indian opener to the top of the batting order could unlock his full capabilities. The support from the experienced off-spinner comes amid growing speculation about Delhi Capitals’ strategic adjustments ahead of the tournament. Ashwin, who has previously played for the Capitals, emphasized that Rahul’s inclusion in the high-order batting lineup could position him as a key contender for the Orange Cap, the award for the highest individual run-scorer. Delhi Capitals, however, are being urged to focus on fundamental aspects of their game to maximize Rahul’s impact. Coaches and analysts have pointed out that while Rahul’s technical skills and adaptability are well-established, his consistency in high-pressure situations remains a critical factor. The team’s management has hinted at a potential reshuffle in the batting order, with Rahul possibly moving up the lineup to capitalize on his ability to anchor the innings and accelerate the scoring rate when needed. The decision to prioritize Rahul’s placement is also influenced by the team’s broader strategy. Delhi Capitals, aiming to compete at the top of the IPL hierarchy, are looking to balance power-hitting with defensive solidity. Rahul’s ability to rotate the strike and maintain an aggressive approach without overcomplicating the scoring could be vital in navigating the tournament’s demanding schedule. Analysts have noted that his recent performances in domestic cricket have showcased improved maturity, which could translate into a strong IPL campaign.#ipl_2026 #ravichandran_ashwin #delhi_capitals #kl_rahul #orange_cap
Ravichandran Ashwin Names His Pick For Orange Cap At The IPL 2026 Ravichandran Ashwin has emphasized the importance of having a batter open the batting for his team in the IPL 2026, specifically highlighting KL Rahul as the key player for Delhi Capitals. The former India spinner suggested that Rahul should consistently open the innings to maximize his impact and secure the Orange Cap, which is awarded to the highest run-scorer in the tournament. Ashwin also recommended pairing Rahul with Pathum Nissanka at the top of the order, stating that such a strategy would give Rahul the best chance to dominate the scoring charts. Ashwin pointed out that Delhi Capitals, despite having a strong squad, have yet to win the IPL title since 2008, alongside Punjab Kings. He criticized the team’s inconsistency in selection and strategy, noting that overcomplicating decisions can harm their performance. For instance, he mentioned how Ashutosh Sharma delivered an outstanding innings but was subsequently overlooked, while Sameer Rizvi was given an unexpected opportunity. Ashwin stressed the need for simplicity and consistency in team choices to harness the full potential of their players. The spinner also praised Delhi Capitals’ bowling department, which includes high-value picks like Axar Patel and Kuldeep Yadav. He highlighted Natarajan’s potential to regain his form and contribute significantly, as well as the reliability of Mukesh Kumar and Lungi Ngidi. Ashwin acknowledged the team’s ability to compete in the playoffs despite their inconsistent performance, predicting they could qualify by maintaining stability throughout the season. In addition to Rahul, Ashwin expressed confidence in other players, such as Auqib Nabi, who should open the bowling with the new ball.#axar_patel #ravichandran_ashwin #delhi_capitals #kl_rahul #pathum_nissanka
Ben Duckett Withdraws From IPL 2026, Apologizes to Delhi Capitals England batter Ben Duckett has withdrawn from the Indian Premier League 2026, informing Delhi Capitals of his decision on Tuesday. The player, who was acquired for Rs 2 crore at the auction, had been expected to open the batting alongside KL Rahul but has opted out of the tournament. His exit could result in a ban from participating in the IPL until the 2029 edition, meaning he will be ineligible for the next two player auctions and the 2027 and 2028 seasons. In a statement shared on Instagram, Duckett explained his decision, emphasizing the importance of prioritizing his preparation for international cricket. "I have made the extremely difficult decision to withdraw from the IPL. I have given this a lot of thought and it has not been an easy choice," he wrote. Duckett highlighted his commitment to representing England, stating that he needs to ensure he is in the best physical and mental condition ahead of the upcoming summer series. The 28-year-old player apologized to Delhi Capitals for the disruption his decision may cause, expressing regret over not being able to contribute to the team. "I would like to sincerely apologize to everyone at Delhi. I was genuinely very excited about the opportunity to represent the franchise, and I fully appreciate the time and planning that goes into building a squad," he said. He also extended his apologies to fans, acknowledging the significance of the IPL to supporters in Delhi. Duckett’s withdrawal follows his recent performance in the Ashes series, where he scored 202 runs in 10 innings at an average of 20.20. His decision to step away from the IPL underscores the challenges players face in balancing domestic and international commitments, particularly as the cricket calendar becomes increasingly demanding.#ipl_2026 #delhi_capitals #ashes_series #ben_duckett #kl_rahul
