The IPL 2026 playoff race tightened further after Kolkata Knight Riders edged Mumbai Indians, while MS Dhoni's latest travel decision sparked fresh discussion around Chennai Super Kings' campaign. Elsewhere, Vaibhav Sooryavanshi revealed the story behind his viral celebration, Royal Challengers Bengaluru received a major boost ahead of the playoffs, and Riyan Parag called for greater respect from commentators.
1. MS Dhoni returns to Ranchi as CSK await playoff miracle
MS Dhoni has reportedly left for Ranchi on the day of Chennai Super Kings' final league-stage match against Gujarat Titans in Ahmedabad.
The veteran wicketkeeper has largely avoided away trips this season because of injury concerns and will only rejoin the squad if CSK somehow qualify for the playoffs. Dhoni has been managing fitness issues
throughout IPL 2026, making only limited appearances around the team environment.
The development further underlines the uncertainty surrounding the 44-year-old's involvement as Chennai's qualification hopes hang by a thread.
2. KKR beat Mumbai Indians to keep playoff hopes alive
Kolkata Knight Riders strengthened their late playoff push with a four-wicket victory over Mumbai Indians at Eden Gardens.
Chasing 148 on a sluggish surface, Manish Pandey top-scored with 45 off 33 balls while Rovman Powell added 40 from 30 deliveries. Their 64-run partnership steadied KKR after an early wobble.
Earlier, KKR's bowlers exploited difficult batting conditions perfectly to restrict Mumbai Indians to 147/8. Cameron Green impressed with both bat and ball, while Corbin Bosch was Mumbai's standout bowler with figures of 3/30.
The result intensifies the race for the final playoff positions and puts additional pressure on Chennai Super Kings and other chasing teams.
3. Vaibhav Sooryavanshi reveals emotional meaning behind viral 'A' celebration
Rajasthan Royals teenager Vaibhav Sooryavanshi has finally explained the meaning behind his much-discussed "A" celebration.
After scoring a sensational 93 off 38 balls against Lucknow Super Giants, the 15-year-old initially claimed the gesture had no special significance. However, he later revealed that the celebration was dedicated to his mother, Aarti Sooryavanshi.
The young opener said he preferred not to publicise the reason because he hopes to continue using the celebration in future matches.
The revelation added another heartwarming chapter to what has already been a breakthrough IPL campaign for the teenage sensation.
4. Phil Salt set for timely RCB return before playoffs
Royal Challengers Bengaluru have received a significant boost with England wicketkeeper-batter Phil Salt expected to rejoin the squad later this week.
Salt has been sidelined since suffering a finger injury while fielding against Delhi Capitals but is reportedly on track to return ahead of the IPL playoffs.
The right-hander scored 202 runs in six matches before the injury and is expected to reclaim his opening spot from Jacob Bethell if declared fit.
RCB have already secured playoff qualification and are targeting a top-two finish heading into the knockout stage.
5. Riyan Parag hits out at personal criticism from commentators
Rajasthan Royals captain Riyan Parag has criticised sections of the broadcasting community for focusing excessively on players' personal matters instead of cricket.
Speaking after Rajasthan's victory over Lucknow Super Giants, Parag urged commentators and experts to show greater respect to players and concentrate on performances rather than off-field controversies.
The comments come amid heightened scrutiny around players this season, including viral dressing-room clips and social media controversies.
Parag argued that fans often overlook the preparation that goes into every match and reminded critics that players are ultimately human and capable of making mistakes.
6. Pat Cummins and Janhvi Kapoor's promotional cricket challenge goes viral
Sunrisers Hyderabad captain Pat Cummins found himself involved in a different kind of cricket contest during a promotional event in Mumbai alongside Bollywood actor Janhvi Kapoor.
The pair took part in a mini cricket challenge to promote Kapoor's upcoming film *Peddi*. One of Kapoor's shots nearly struck a spectator's phone, creating a humorous moment that quickly went viral across social media.
The event also featured television personality Rannvijay Singha, who jokingly bowled out Cummins to the delight of the crowd.
The crossover between IPL and Bollywood generated widespread online engagement ahead of the tournament's final stretch.
