ITC Hotels Acquires Welcomhotel Ahmedabad in Strategic Expansion Move ITC Hotels Limited has announced the acquisition of a 100% stake in GHK Hospitality and Infrastructures Ltd., which operates Welcomhotel Ahmedabad. The deal marks a significant step in the company’s expansion strategy, as it will transition from an operating services agreement to full ownership of the property. Welcomhotel Ahmedabad, a 130-key hotel located along Ahmedabad’s Ashram Road, offers panoramic views of the Sabarmati Riverfront and is strategically positioned near the Ahmedabad International Airport and the Narendra Modi Stadium. This prime location enhances its appeal as a hospitality destination catering to both business and leisure travelers. Ahmedabad, a rapidly growing metropolitan hub, is recognized as one of India’s top eight urban economies. The city’s development is driven by major corporate entities, industrial corridors such as Dholera, GIFT City, and Sanand, which have contributed to its status as a key economic center. The acquisition of Welcomhotel Ahmedabad is expected to bolster ITC Hotels’ portfolio of owned assets in the city, enabling the company to span all segments of the branded hospitality market. This move is anticipated to strengthen its market presence by addressing diverse customer preferences across price points. The transaction is slated to be completed within the current quarter, with the enterprise value of the deal set at ₹155 crores on a debt-free and cash-free basis. This valuation reflects the hotel’s established brand positioning, consistent occupancy levels, and its strategic location, which are projected to drive long-term yield improvements and cash flow generation.#ahmedabad #narendra_modi_stadium #itc_hotels #welcomhotel_ahmedabad #ghk_hospitality_infrastructures
Kohli Reveals the Secret to Success Virat Kohli, the 37-year-old captain of Royal Challengers Bangalore (RCB), secured his team’s second IPL title in two years with a thrilling performance in the final against Gujarat Titans. The victory, achieved after a 14-year wait for his first IPL trophy, marked a significant milestone in his career. Kohli, who has consistently evolved his game to adapt to the demands of modern cricket, emphasized the importance of mental preparation and strategic adjustments over traditional batting techniques. Kohli’s innings of 75 runs off 25 balls in the final against Gujarat Titans proved pivotal in securing RCB’s second title. The match, held at Narendra Modi Stadium in Ahmedabad, saw the crowd largely supporting RCB despite the venue being Gujarat Titans’ home ground. Kohli, reflecting on the moment, described it as the realization of a long-held dream. “This innings was my biggest dream come true. I’ve thought about this moment countless times,” he said, expressing his joy and gratitude. The victory was not just a personal triumph for Kohli but also a testament to the team’s collective effort. RCB’s squad delivered exceptional performances throughout the season, with eight different players winning the Man of the Match award in the first 10 matches. Bowling stars like Josh Hazlewood, Bhuvneshwar Kumar, and Rashid Khan played crucial roles, while young talents like Krunal Pandya and RasiKh Salam Dhar showcased their potential. Kohli credited the team’s unity and the support from fans as key factors in their success. Kohli’s approach to the game has shifted over the years, particularly in response to the rise of young talent in the league.#ahmedabad #narendra_modi_stadium #virat_kohli #royal_challengers_bangalore #gujarat_titans
Bengaluru Police Issue Advisory to Ensure Safety During IPL 2026 Final Celebrations The Bengaluru city police issued a public advisory on Friday, May 29, 2026, urging citizens to adhere to strict safety protocols following the conclusion of the TATA IPL 2026 final on May 31. The directive came as Royal Challengers Bengaluru (RCB) secured a spot in the tournament’s final, prompting authorities to emphasize the importance of maintaining public order and safety during post-match celebrations. The advisory outlined a series of restrictions aimed at preventing disruptions, ensuring crowd management, and avoiding incidents that could compromise security. Key guidelines included a ban on public celebrations such as bursting crackers, holding road processions, or engaging in fights after the final result was announced. The police emphasized that maintaining law and order, public peace, and safety is a collective responsibility, urging citizens to comply with instructions from traffic officials. Additionally, the advisory prohibited the installation of LED walls facing roads without prior authorization from authorities, as well as the use of existing LED screens to broadcast the match. Screens outside commercial establishments like malls, pubs, or restaurants were also barred from being visible to the public for viewing the final. The police further warned against the use of dangerous materials, including fireworks, and stressed the need for discipline in crowded areas. Prohibited activities extended to bike rallies, over-speeding, stunts, misuse of vehicle horns, and road blockages. Alcohol consumption in public spaces was explicitly discouraged, along with any behavior that could lead to disturbances, fights, or indecent conduct.#narendra_modi_stadium #royal_challengers_bengaluru #tata_ipl_2026 #chinnaswamy_stadium #bengaluru_police
Royal Challengers Bengaluru and Gujarat Titans Set for IPL 2026 Showdown Royal Challengers Bengaluru has dominated the IPL 2026 tournament from its early stages, emerging as the team to beat. Gujarat Titans, meanwhile, has shown resilience despite setbacks, with both sides set to face off in the final on May 31 at the Narendra Modi Stadium in Ahmedabad. RCB’s campaign has been marked by consistency, squad depth, and adaptability to different playing conditions. A 92-run victory over GT in Qualifier 1 at Dharamshala reinforced their status as a formidable force. GT’s path to the final has been less straightforward, but their fighting spirit has been evident throughout the season. Gujarat Titans’ journey to the final included a seven-wicket win over Rajasthan Royals in Qualifier 2, where Shubman Gill’s century played a pivotal role. The captain’s performance highlighted his ability to respond to challenges, as seen in a previous Qualifier 1 loss to Chennai Super Kings three years ago, which did not deter GT from reaching the summit clash. This year, Gill’s leadership and batting have been central to GT’s success, with his century against RR showcasing his composure and aggression. The final will also feature a direct clash between Gill and Virat Kohli, two of the tournament’s most prominent players. Kohli’s 600 runs at a strike rate close to 165 have solidified his reputation in the shortest format. Gill, meanwhile, has become the cornerstone of GT’s batting and leadership, with his performances this season underscoring his importance to the team. The outcome of this individual contest could significantly influence the match’s direction. The PowerPlay phase is expected to be a critical factor.#shubman_gill #narendra_modi_stadium #virat_kohli #royal_challengers_bengaluru #gujarat_titans
Afghanistan Announces Test and ODI Squad for India Series, Names Hashmatullah Shahidi as Captain Afghanistan Cricket Board has announced its Test and ODI squads for the upcoming series against India, with Hashmatullah Shahidi named captain for both formats. The series, scheduled to begin on June 6 and conclude on June 20, will feature one historic Test match and a three-match ODI series. The Test match will be played at the Narendra Modi Stadium in Ahmedabad, while the ODIs will take place in Rajkot and Indore. For the ODI series, Afghanistan has opted for a balanced mix of experienced players and young talent. The squad includes star performers like Rashid Khan, R Rahmanullah Gurbaz, and Ibrahim Zadran, who are known for their ability to turn matches around. The team also features all-rounders like Azmatullah Umarzai and leg-spinner Nangyal Khartai, ensuring depth across all departments. Rashid Khan, a key all-rounder, will spearhead the spin attack, while Mohammad Nabi and Ziaur Rahman will provide pace support. The reserves include Kas Ahmed, Salim Safi, and Bashir Ahmed. In the Test format, Afghanistan has made strategic changes to strengthen its batting lineup. The team includes R Rahmanullah Gurbaz and Rahmat Shah in the middle order, alongside Azmatullah Umarzai, who will play a crucial role in stabilizing the innings. The spin department is bolstered by Sharafuddin Ashraf and Kas Ahmed, with Nangyal Khartai and Bilal Sami serving as backups. The wicketkeeping duties will be shared between Afzal Javeed and Ikram Ali Khil, who will provide both defensive solidity and aggressive run-scoring. The reserves for the Test squad include Bashir Ahmed, Bahir Shah, and Ismat Alam.#narendra_modi_stadium #indore #rajkot #afghanistan_cricket_board #hashmatullah_shahidi
Washington Sundar's Record Six Steals Spotlight in IPL 2026 Clash Between Gujarat Titans and Sunrisers Hyderabad Gujarat Titans all-rounder Washington Sundar delivered one of the most electrifying moments of the IPL 2026 season during a high-stakes encounter against Sunrisers Hyderabad at the Narendra Modi Stadium in Ahmedabad on Tuesday. The match, which saw Gujarat Titans secure a commanding 82-run victory, was highlighted by Sundar’s audacious six off Eshan Malinga in the 19th over. The shot, a low full toss whipped over the deep mid-wicket fence while Sundar was almost sitting on the ground, sent the crowd into a frenzy and earned thunderous applause from the Gujarat Titans dugout. The match unfolded as a masterclass in execution, with Gujarat Titans building a formidable total of 168/7 on a challenging batting surface. Sai Sudharsan and Washington Sundar anchored the innings, contributing half-centuries of 61 and 50 respectively. Sudharsan’s innings was marked by composure, as he struck five fours and two sixes in 44 balls, while Sundar’s 33-ball 50 featured seven fours and the iconic six. The duo’s partnership laid the foundation for a competitive total, which proved decisive in the chase. Sunrisers Hyderabad’s batting line-up crumbled under the pressure, as Kagiso Rabada and Jason Holder dismantled the opposition with precision. Rabada’s early dominance with the new ball, coupled with Holder’s relentless accuracy post-powerplay, led to a collapse that saw Hyderabad bowled out for 86 in 14.5 overs. Rabada’s figures of 3/28 and Holder’s 3/20 underscored the effectiveness of Gujarat’s bowling attack, which secured the fifth consecutive win for the IPL 2022 champions. Sundar’s post-match comments revealed the strategic mindset behind his record-breaking shot.#ahmedabad #narendra_modi_stadium #sunrisers_hyderabad #gujarat_titans #washington_sundar
Gujarat Titans' Training Strategy: Simulating Real-Match Scenarios for IPL 2026 Success Gujarat Titans (GT) assistant coach Parthiv Patel has detailed the team’s meticulous approach to preparing for crucial matches in the ongoing Indian Premier League (IPL) 2026, as the franchise aims to secure its second title in the tournament. Patel emphasized the importance of simulating real-match scenarios during practice sessions to ensure players are fully prepared for high-stakes encounters. This strategy has played a significant role in GT’s recent success, including a dominant 77-run victory over Rajasthan Royals in Jaipur. Patel highlighted that the team’s training regimen goes beyond physical exertion, incorporating extensive oral communication and strategic discussions within the coaching staff. These conversations focus on anticipating how opposition bowlers might target key batters and tailoring field placements to maximize each player’s strengths. For instance, discussions revolve around scenarios where bowlers could exploit vulnerabilities in players like Sai Sudharsan, Washington Sundar, and Rahul Tewatia. “We’ve been analyzing how to counter specific bowling attacks and how to set fields that give our batters the best chance to succeed,” Patel explained in an interview with JioHotstar. A key component of GT’s preparation is the use of their B ground, a secondary training facility adjacent to the Narendra Modi Stadium, which serves as the team’s home venue. Patel revealed that the B ground is used to replicate match-day conditions, allowing players to practice under realistic scenarios. “We focus heavily on the middle order, as they often don’t get enough opportunities in actual matches,” he said.#shubman_gill #narendra_modi_stadium #gujarat_titans #parthiv_patel #b_ground
Royal Challengers Bengaluru Crowned IPL 2025 Champions After 18-Year Wait The Royal Challengers Bengaluru (RCB) finally ended an 18-year drought by clinching their first-ever Indian Premier League (IPL) title, defeating Punjab Kings by six runs in the final at the Narendra Modi Stadium in Ahmedabad. The victory, which brought tears of joy to star player Virat Kohli, marked a historic moment for the franchise, which has been part of the league since its inception in 2008. Kohli, who has been a cornerstone of RCB’s squad, was visibly emotional after the win, a moment that resonated deeply with fans and teammates alike. RCB all-rounder Krunal Pandya, who played a pivotal role in the team’s success, described the triumph as one of the most emotional experiences of his career. Speaking on JioStar’s “The Krunal Pandya Experience,” Pandya highlighted the significance of the win for Kohli, who had long been a symbol of the team’s resilience. “Virat has been an integral part of RCB from the first season. To see him get emotional after winning the title was special,” Pandya said. He emphasized that the victory was not just a personal achievement for Kohli but also a collective triumph for the fans, who had waited decades for the franchise to finally lift the trophy. Pandya, who was acquired by RCB for Rs 5.75 crore at the IPL 2025 Mega Auction in Jeddah, dedicated the win to the supporters and the team’s legacy. “The fans deserved this trophy more than anybody else, and obviously, Virat as well,” he added. The 2025 victory also marked a milestone for Pandya, who called it one of his top moments in his career. “Winning for RCB after 18 years and having my best season while contributing well has to be one of my top moments,” he said.#narendra_modi_stadium #virat_kohli #royal_challengers_bengaluru #ipl_2025 #punjab_kings
Gujarat Titans Face Royal Challengers Bengaluru in IPL Clash at Narendra Modi Stadium Gujarat Titans (GT) will take on Royal Challengers Bengaluru (RCB) in a crucial IPL match at the Narendra Modi Stadium in Ahmedabad on Thursday. This encounter follows a recent encounter where RCB chased down 206 at the M Chinnaswamy Stadium, securing a five-wicket victory. GT, currently sitting mid-table with four wins and four losses in eight games, faces challenges in balancing their batting lineup. Their top three players—Shubman Gill, B Sai Sudharsan, and Jos Buttler—have been the primary sources of runs. Despite a century from Sudharsan and a partnership with Gill that added 205 for the third wicket, GT fell short against RCB’s disciplined bowling attack. RCB enters the match in stronger form, having secured six wins from eight matches. Their recent nine-wicket victory over Delhi Capitals highlighted their attacking prowess, with Bhuvneshwar Kumar and Josh Hazlewood dismantling the opposition for 75. The duo’s ability to dismantle GT’s top order could be pivotal, as the Titans’ middle order remains inconsistent. Washington Sundar and Jason Holder have provided stability, but the finishing roles remain unsettled. A strong start from RCB’s bowlers could force GT into a precarious position, particularly if Gill, Sudharsan, or Buttler are dismissed early. GT’s bowling department has also faced scrutiny, particularly after the Powerplay. While Mohammed Siraj and Kagiso Rabada have delivered solid starts, the team has struggled to maintain control in the middle and death overs. In contrast, RCB’s batting lineup offers flexibility, with Virat Kohli, Jacob Bethell, and Devdutt Padikkal providing options at the top.#ahmedabad #narendra_modi_stadium #royal_challengers_bengaluru #gujarat_titans #ipl
Key Battles to Watch in IPL 2026 GT vs KKR Match Gujarat Titans (GT) and Kolkata Knight Riders (KKR) are set to clash on April 17, 2026, at the Narendra Modi Stadium in Ahmedabad. The match promises to be a high-stakes encounter as GT, led by Shubman Gill, aim to capitalize on their recent momentum, while KKR, under Ajinkya Rahane’s leadership, face a challenging task after a dismal start to the tournament. GT’s back-to-back victories, including a strong performance against Lucknow Super Giants, have positioned them as a formidable force, whereas KKR’s struggles stem from an inconsistent batting lineup, a lack of quality spin-hitters, and injury concerns in their bowling department. Despite a few bright spots like Angkrish Raghuvanshi, KKR remain winless after five matches and sit at the bottom of the table. The match will hinge on several critical battles, with five player duels expected to shape the outcome. Shubman Gill’s ability to navigate Sunil Narine’s powerplay overs will be crucial for GT’s innings. Gill, who has struggled against Narine in the past, has managed only 13 runs off 12 balls in previous encounters. However, his current form, with 165 runs in the tournament, suggests he could set a strong foundation for GT. Conversely, KKR’s Narine will look to exploit any weaknesses in Gill’s technique to disrupt the GT top order. Jos Buttler’s return to form has bolstered GT’s batting lineup, but his record against Varun Chakravarthy remains concerning. Since 2025, Buttler has scored just 23 runs off 26 balls against the mystery spinner, falling four times. KKR’s strategy may involve deploying Varun as an Impact Player to target Buttler early, leveraging his ability to unsettle the Englishman.#shubman_gill #narendra_modi_stadium #kolkata_knight_riders #gujarat_titans #ajinkya_rahan
Gujarat Titans Secure Back-to-Back IPL 2026 Wins with Dominant Bowling and Batting Display Gujarat Titans (GT) claimed a thrilling 7-wicket victory over Lucknow Super Giants (LSG) in the 19th match of the Indian Premier League (IPL) 2026 at the Narendra Modi Stadium in Lucknow on April 12, 2026. The match, which saw GT chase down a target of 165 with eight balls remaining, highlighted their resilience and tactical precision, while LSG’s struggles continued as they faced another disappointing performance. The victory was spearheaded by a stellar bowling display from GT, led by Prasidh Krishna’s four-wicket haul. Krishna, named the Player of the Match (POTM), emphasized the importance of teamwork, stating, “I think the most important thing was the victory for us. I am just here taking the laurels of all the pressure created by all the other bowlers.” His ability to mix pace-off with pace-on deliveries proved critical, particularly in the middle overs, where GT maintained pressure on LSG’s batting lineup. Shubman Gill and Jos Buttler played pivotal roles in GT’s chase, scoring fifties to ensure a steady run rate. Gill praised the team’s bowling effort, noting, “The way we bowled in the powerplay was very impressive and how we kept up the pressure in the middle overs was tremendous.” He also highlighted Rashid Khan’s impact, saying, “Rashid makes my life very easy. Getting us back in the game every time another bowler is under pressure.” Buttler, who scored 52 off 37 balls, added, “I’ve been through a lean patch, but nice to get some good games. I’ve been focusing on my set-up and basics, which helped me see the ball better.” LSG’s batting woes persisted, with Rishabh Pant admitting, “Definitely not enough runs. They bowled well.#narendra_modi_stadium #ipl_2026 #lucknow_super_giants #gujarat_titans #prasidh_krishna
IPL 2026: Tickets start at Rs 1,000 as Gujarat Titans introduce seamless m-ticketing to enhance fan-first matchday experience at home games Gujarat Titans have launched a digital ticketing system for all home matches of the Indian Premier League (IPL) 2026 at the Narendra Modi Stadium in Ahmedabad, aiming to streamline the fan experience. The initiative, which eliminates the need for physical tickets, will deliver secure QR-based m-tickets directly to fans’ smartphones through the franchise’s official ticketing partner, BookMyShow, and the Titans FAM app. This move is designed to reduce entry bottlenecks and improve crowd movement via real-time validation, particularly at the world’s largest cricket stadium, where attendance often exceeds 100,000. Ticket prices for general stands range from Rs 1,000 to Rs 3,000, while premium seating options include President Gallery seats priced between Rs 10,000 and Rs 12,000. Fans seeking the highest level of comfort can opt for Premium Suites at Rs 18,000 and Presidential Suites at Rs 25,000. The franchise’s first home game of the season is scheduled for April 4 against the Rajasthan Royals. Gujarat Titans, led by Shubman Gill, will also play three away matches in the first phase of the season, including the campaign opener against Punjab Kings on March 31, followed by games against Delhi Capitals on April 8 and Lucknow Super Giants on April 12. Colonel Arvinder Singh, Chief Operating Officer of Gujarat Titans, emphasized the team’s commitment to fans, stating, “Fans remain central to our approach. The launch of m-ticketing this season strengthens that effort, enabling a seamless and secure process from purchase to entry.” The franchise’s digital strategy aligns with its fan-first philosophy, ensuring a smoother and more efficient matchday experience.#shubman_gill #narendra_modi_stadium #bookmyshow #gujarat_titans #colonel_arvinder_singh
Jasprit Bumrah reveals what makes him happiest on the field after T20 World Cup triumph Jasprit Bumrah shared his emotions after India’s historic T20 World Cup victory, reflecting on the joy of making a difference on the field. The right-arm pace bowler, who played a pivotal role in the final against New Zealand, described the moment as the “no better feeling” he has ever experienced. Bumrah, who took four wickets in the match, emphasized that his passion for cricket has always been about contributing to the team’s success. “When I’m able to make a difference, that gives me so much joy,” he said, highlighting the fulfillment he derives from performing under pressure. The win marked India’s third T20 World Cup title, making them the first team to achieve this feat and the first to defend the trophy successfully. The victory also secured their first World Cup title on home soil, with the final held at the Narendra Modi Stadium in Ahmedabad. For Bumrah, the emotional weight of the moment was amplified by the memory of the 2023 Cricket World Cup final, where India fell short of the title in the same venue. “The last time we just fell short, this time we went over it. Really happy,” he said, expressing his gratitude for the opportunity to redeem themselves. Bumrah’s family presence at the final added to the significance of the occasion. He mentioned that his son and mother were there, making the moment even more special. “I don’t know about full circles, but really, really happy,” he added, underscoring the personal and professional fulfillment he felt. The 32-year-old also highlighted the rarity of back-to-back World Cup victories, calling it a “grateful” experience. Bumrah finished the tournament as joint-highest wicket-taker with 14 scalps, alongside spinner Varun Chakaravarthy.#india #new_zealand #t20_world_cup #jasprit_bumrah #narendra_modi_stadium
Pune Lawyer Files Police Complaint Against Hardik Pandya Over Alleged Flag Disrespect A Pune-based lawyer has filed a police complaint alleging that Indian cricketer Hardik Pandya disrespected the national flag during celebrations following India’s T20 World Cup victory. The complaint, submitted by advocate Wajid Khan at the Shivaji Nagar Police Station, claims Pandya wrapped the Indian tricolour around his body while dancing with his girlfriend, Mahieka Sharma, on the field after the final against New Zealand. Khan argued that the act violated Section 2 of the 1971 National Flag Act, which mandates respect for the national flag. Khan described the incident as a breach of the flag’s dignity, stating that Pandya’s actions during the celebration were “an insult to the national flag.” He emphasized that the flag is a symbol of the entire nation and urged the police to investigate the matter under relevant laws. The lawyer claimed he had filed the complaint with the Shivaji Nagar police station, which accepted it and provided him with a copy. The controversy arose after India’s dramatic T20 World Cup win over New Zealand triggered emotional on-field celebrations in Ahmedabad. A video of Pandya and Sharma dancing while the flag was tied to Pandya’s back went viral, sparking mixed reactions online. While some fans viewed the moment as a harmless expression of joy, others criticized the lack of formal respect for the national symbol. Khan’s complaint highlighted concerns about the perceived disrespect, arguing that the flag’s association with national pride should not be overshadowed by personal celebrations. The lawyer’s allegations have drawn attention to the broader debate about balancing public joy with adherence to legal and cultural norms surrounding national symbols.#narendra_modi_stadium #hardik_pandya #mahieka_sharma #wajid_khan #shivaji_nagar_police_station
India clinched its third T20 World Cup title by defeating New Zealand by 96 runs in Ahmedabad on March 8, 2026. The victory, secured at the Narendra Modi Stadium, marked a historic moment for the team and solidified India's status as the most successful nation in T20 cricket history. Legendary cricketer Sunil Gavaskar fulfilled a pre-tournament promise by dancing with captain Suryakumar Yadav in celebration. Gavaskar, 76, had jokingly stated that dancing would be his form of cardio given his age, and he eagerly joined the festivities after India's historic win. The moment was widely shared on social media, with Gavaskar's joyous dance alongside Yadav becoming a viral highlight. Gavaskar praised Yadav's leadership, comparing him to former captain Rohit Sharma. He highlighted Yadav's calm, positive demeanor and his ability to unite the team. "Surya is a cool, composed leader. His approach is always positive, and the entire team looks up to him," Gavaskar said. Yadav's leadership was crucial during the tournament, including a pivotal 84-run innings against the USA in a challenging match. The win added to India's legacy as T20 champions, with the team now holding the record for the most titles in the format. The victory also saw the team celebrate at the Hanuman Temple, where players like Yadav and Ravindra Jadeja offered prayers, symbolizing their gratitude and humility. This triumph underscored the strength of India's cricketing culture and the enduring legacy of its players, blending tradition with modern success. The event was a testament to the team's resilience and the growing global influence of Indian cricket.#india #new_zealand #sunil_gavaskar #suryakumar_yadav #narendra_modi_stadium
Ish Sodhi's Emotional Moment at Ahmedabad Stadium During the national anthem ceremony at the Narendra Modi Stadium in Ahmedabad, Ish Sodhi, the New Zealand cricket team’s standout spin bowler, was seen struggling to hold back tears. The moment captured the attention of fans and media, highlighting the emotional weight of the occasion as the Indian and New Zealand teams stood in unison. Ish Sodhi, 33, is widely regarded as one of New Zealand’s premier spinners. Born in Ludhiana, Punjab, he moved to Papatoetoe, New Zealand, with his family at the age of four. His cricketing journey began with his international debut in a Test match against Bangladesh in 2013. Sodhi later made his Twenty20 International (T20I) debut against the West Indies in July 2014 and his One Day International (ODI) debut against Zimbabwe in August 2015. By 2018, Sodhi had climbed to the top of the ICC T20I bowlers’ rankings, showcasing his exceptional skill and consistency. He became a key player in New Zealand’s 2019 Cricket World Cup campaign, which ended in a runners-up finish. Sodhi also holds the record for the most T20I wickets against India, with 30 scalps in 25 matches at an average of 23.80. His ability to dismantle Indian batting lineups has made him a formidable opponent in international cricket. The emotional display at the Ahmedabad stadium occurred during a high-stakes T20 World Cup final between India and New Zealand. The event, held at the iconic Narendra Modi Stadium, drew massive crowds and global attention. Sodhi’s moment of vulnerability underscored the intensity of the competition and the personal significance of representing his nation on such a grand stage. Throughout his career, Sodhi has been a consistent performer, contributing to New Zealand’s success in multiple formats.#t20_world_cup #ahmedabad #narendra_modi_stadium #ish_sodhi #new_zealand_cricket_team
Sanju Samson Net Worth: Inside the Indian Star Cricketer’s Earnings, IPL Salary, and Luxury Lifestyle Indian cricketer Sanju Samson made headlines with a career-defining performance in the T20 World Cup final, where he scored an unbeaten 89 against New Zealand at the Narendra Modi Stadium in Ahmedabad. This innings became the highest individual score in a T20 World Cup final, surpassing previous records. Samson’s achievement also marked a significant milestone as he surpassed Virat Kohli’s run tally for an Indian in a single T20 World Cup edition. His explosive 46-ball innings featured five boundaries and eight sixes, with a strike rate of 193.48, outperforming notable past finals, including Marlon Samuels’ 85 in 2016 and Kane Williamson’s 85 in 2021. Across five innings in the tournament, Samson accumulated 321 runs at an average of 80.25 and a strike rate of 199.37, including 27 fours and 24 sixes. His tally moved him past Kohli’s 2014 record for the most runs by an Indian in a single T20 World Cup. However, Pakistan’s Sahibzada Farhan eventually topped the leaderboard with 383 runs, averaging 76.60. Off the field, Samson has established himself as one of the financially successful cricketers of his generation. Ahead of the IPL 2026 season, he signed with Chennai Super Kings for Rs 18 crore, securing his place among the league’s highest-paid players. Under the BCCI central contract system, he earns Rs 1 crore annually as part of the Grade C category, with additional match fees of approximately Rs 3 lakh per T20I and Rs 6 lakh per ODI. Over his 15-season IPL career, spanning from 2012 to 2026, Samson has reportedly earned over Rs 100 crore in salaries alone, playing for franchises like Kolkata Knight Riders, Rajasthan Royals, and Chennai Super Kings.#t20_world_cup #narendra_modi_stadium #sanju_samson #chennai_super_kings #kolkata_knight_riders
"Pressure Is For Crowd, Not Surya": Childhood Coach On Captain's Ice-Cold Temperament For Final The stage is set for the 2026 ICC Men’s T20 World Cup final in Ahmedabad, where India faces New Zealand in a high-stakes clash. With over 130,000 fans expected to fill the Narendra Modi Stadium, the focus remains on the Indian team’s preparation and mindset. Ashok Aswalkar, the childhood coach of captain Suryakumar Yadav, has spoken about the captain’s composure under pressure and the strategies that could determine the outcome of the match. Aswalkar, who has guided Surya since his early days, emphasized that the captain’s natural leadership and dedication have been key to his success. He recalled how Surya often took charge during practice sessions, ensuring discipline among teammates even when he was preoccupied with other responsibilities. This same leadership quality, Aswalkar said, is evident in Surya’s performance on the field, where he remains unaffected by the intensity of the final. The coach dismissed concerns about pressure, stating that Surya’s temperament has always been steady. “He plays well and doesn’t get affected by pressure,” Aswalkar said, noting that the Indian team’s history of performing under pressure would serve them well against New Zealand. He also highlighted the need for tactical adjustments, particularly in the bowling order, following Varun Chakravarthy’s strong performance in the semifinal. Aswalkar warned against overemphasizing individual opponents, stressing that the team must treat the entire New Zealand squad as a collective challenge. “Focusing on one player could disrupt the overall game,” he said, adding that the Indian team is prepared to face any strategy the opposition throws at them.#new_zealand #icc_men_s_t20_world_cup #suryakumar_yadav #narendra_modi_stadium #ashok_aswalkar
"Expect Some Firecrackers" – Dinesh Karthik’s Classy Response To Michael Vaughan’s Jibe At His Ritual Ahead Of IND vs NZ T20 World Cup 2026 Final Dinesh Karthik, the former Indian keeper-batter, delivered a polished response to a jibe from ex-England captain Michael Vaughan ahead of the T20 World Cup 2026 final between India and New Zealand. Vaughan had teased Karthik’s pre-match ritual of pressing his shirt, a tradition he adopted after India’s victory in the 2024 T20 World Cup. The former England captain quipped that the “iron must be pressed on the pitch in Ahmedabad” due to Team India’s preference for flat tracks, a comment Karthik deftly countered by acknowledging the flat pitch and promising fans “some firecrackers” in the final. Karthik’s ritual of pressing his shirt has become a recurring pre-match tradition, dating back to the 2024 T20 World Cup final. The practice has since been repeated before major matches such as the Champions Trophy 2025 final, Asia Cup 2025 final, Women’s World Cup 2025 final, and the WPL 2026 final. India has secured victories in all these events, while the Rajasthan Royals claimed the WPL title earlier in 2026. Fans have embraced the tradition, often urging Karthik to continue the ritual ahead of key matches to bring good fortune for the national team. Vaughan’s comment, which suggested that India’s success was tied to the flat conditions in Ahmedabad, was met with Karthik’s witty reply. He acknowledged the flat pitch but emphasized that the team’s preparation and determination would ensure a thrilling performance. His response, shared on social media, included the line: “That’s the next progression to this. And btw, the pitch is very flat for tonight. So expect some firecrackers.#t20_world_cup_2026 #ahmedabad #narendra_modi_stadium #michael_vaughan #dinesh_karthik
Michael Vaughan teases Dinesh Karthik’s pre-match ritual ahead of 2026 T20 World Cup final Michael Vaughan, the former England cricket captain, took a lighthearted jab at Dinesh Karthik’s well-known pre-match routine as the 2026 T20 World Cup final approaches. The former Indian cricketer, now a commentator, has become a familiar figure in the cricketing world for his unique superstition of ironing his shirt before big games. Vaughan’s comment came after observing Karthik perform the ritual ahead of India’s clash against New Zealand in Ahmedabad, where the tournament’s final will be held. Vaughan’s joke, shared on social media, referenced India’s preference for batting-friendly pitches, suggesting that Karthik’s ironing skills might also contribute to preparing the playing surface. “You need to use that iron on the pitch DK… India likes a flat track,” he tweeted, a nod to the team’s reliance on flat, even surfaces for optimal batting conditions. The England legend’s post quickly gained attention online, with fans recognizing the reference to Karthik’s famous ritual. Karthik, who retired from international cricket in 2022, has long been associated with the practice of ironing his shirt before major matches. He has humorously claimed that once the shirt is perfectly pressed, his role is complete, leaving the players to focus on the game. Despite his retirement, Karthik remains involved with the Indian team as a mentor and commentator, continuing to share his insights and traditions. The T20 World Cup final, set to take place at the Narendra Modi Stadium, has become a focal point for fans and players alike. Even small rituals, like Karthik’s ironing routine, have become part of the pre-match buildup, adding to the anticipation of the tournament’s most anticipated game.#ahmedabad #narendra_modi_stadium #michael_vaughan #dinesh_karthik #2026_t20_world_cup
