IPL 2026 is delivering high-voltage drama early in the season, with surprise results, record-breaking knocks, and tactical debates grabbing headlines as teams
battle for early momentum.
Check out the best stories from April 4 in the IPL 2026 News Bulletin of the day.
1. Punjab Kings go top after win over CSK
Punjab Kings soared to the top of the IPL 2026 points table with a commanding five-wicket victory over Chennai Super Kings at Chepauk on April 3. Chasing 210, PBKS rode on explosive contributions from Priyansh Arya and skipper Shreyas Iyer to complete their ninth 200-plus chase in league history. The win marked their second successive success after beating Gujarat Titans, underlining their fearless batting approach and strong start to the campaign under Shreyas Iyer's leadership.
2. CSK suffer 6th Chepauk defeat in a row
Chennai Super Kings' fortress at Chepauk continued to crumble as they suffered their sixth consecutive home defeat in IPL 2026, losing to Punjab Kings by five wickets. Despite posting 209 for 5, CSK were outclassed in a high-scoring thriller. The five-time champions, who also opened their season with a heavy loss to Rajasthan Royals, are struggling to rediscover their home dominance.
3. Sanju Samson fails again for Super Kings
Sanju Samson's transition to Chennai Super Kings has got off to a rocky start. After scoring just 6 on CSK debut against Rajasthan Royals, the former Rajasthan Royals captain was dismissed cheaply once again in the high-stakes clash against Punjab Kings at Chepauk as he could only manage 7 runs.
4. Gavaskar gives strong Cameron Green verdict to KKR
Sunil Gavaskar has urged Kolkata Knight Riders to reconsider their combination involving star all-rounder Cameron Green. After KKR's early defeats and Green's modest returns with the bat while being unable to bowl due to a back issue, the legend gave a clear verdict.
"KKR will need to think about their combination if Cameron Green is not going to bowl. If he isn't contributing with the ball, then they might have to consider bringing in another specialist batter. We know he has scored a hundred in the IPL and that he can bat well, but his form hasn't been great recently, said Gavaskar.
5. Ayush Mhatre youngest to score 50 at Chepauk
Eighteen-year-old Ayush Mhatre created history in CSK's IPL 2026 match against Punjab Kings by becoming the youngest player to score an IPL fifty at Chepauk at 18 years and 261 days. The explosive opener smashed his half-century off just 29 balls en route to 73, breaking Suresh Raina's 18-year-old record for the youngest CSK fifty at the venue. His six-hitting blitz gave CSK a competitive 209 for 5, though it wasn't enough to prevent defeat.
6. Irfan Pathan helped me in J&K Selection: Auqib Nabi
Jammu and Kashmir pace sensation Auqib Nabi has opened up on the crucial role played by Irfan Pathan in his rise. Nabi revealed how the former India all-rounder's mentorship transformed his career. "I made my junior debut for Jammu and Kashmir by wearing spikes that I had borrowed from a friend. When Irfan bhai joined as the mentor of Jammu and Kashmir, I was in the Under-23 team, and my performances there got his attention. He helped me make my debut for the Jammu and Kashmir senior team. He used to guide me a lot by giving me tips, and was very helpful.
7. Mitchell Santner set to play for MI against DC
Mumbai Indians received a timely boost as New Zealand all-rounder Mitchell Santner joined the squad in Delhi ahead of their IPL 2026 clash against Delhi Capitals on April 4. The experienced left-arm spinner missed MI's season-opening win over Kolkata Knight Riders but is now available for selection. Santner's all-round skills will strengthen the bowling attack and middle order as the five-time champions aim to maintain their winning momentum.
