With only a few days remaining before IPL 2026 gets underway, the intensity is building across teams. Injuries are forcing last-minute changes, big names
continue to dominate discussions, and captains are beginning to lay down early markers ahead of the opening clash. The build-up phase is already shaping key narratives for the season.
Here's a look at the IPL News Bulletin for March 23, tracking major developments around the cash-rich tournament.
KKR Rope In Saurabh Dubey For Akash Deep
Kolkata Knight Riders have roped in Saurabh Dubey as a replacement for Akash Deep, who has been ruled out of IPL 2026. The 28-year-old left-arm pacer, previously associated with Sunrisers Hyderabad, is known for generating extra bounce and swinging the ball both ways. Dubey has impressed in domestic cricket and was part of the 2019 ACC Emerging Teams Asia Cup under Rahul Dravid. Despite going unsold in the recent mini-auction, he gets a fresh opportunity with KKR, who are still searching for a replacement for Harshit Rana.
CSK Inducts Suresh Raina, Mathew Hayden In Hall Of Fame
Chennai Super Kings launched their Hall of Fame on March 22, 2026, inducting Suresh Raina and Matthew Hayden as the first members during the Roar'26 event in Chennai. Raina, CSK's highest run-scorer with 5529 runs, played a crucial role in multiple IPL and CLT20 title wins.
Hayden, part of the 2010 title-winning squad, scored 1117 runs and won the Orange Cap in 2009. The event also saw MS Dhoni felicitate Sanju Samson, Shivam Dube, and Ayush Mhatre, celebrating India's recent T20 World Cup success and CSK's legacy.
Dasun Shanaka Joins RR Replacing Injured Sam Curran
Dasun Shanaka has withdrawn from the Pakistan Super League 2026 and is set to join the Rajasthan Royals as a replacement for Sam Curran, who is recovering from a groin injury ahead of IPL 2026. Shanaka, previously associated with the Gujarat Titans, is viewed as a like-for-like all-round option due to his ability with both bat and ball.
His move comes after Blessing Muzarabani joined the Kolkata Knight Riders after pulling out of the PSL. Shanaka brings experience despite limited IPL appearances and arrives in good form after strong performances, including two fifties, in the T20 World Cup 2026, making him a valuable addition to the Royals squad.
Stability Key For DC, PBKS To Clinch Maiden IPL Trophy
Delhi Capitals and Punjab Kings are aiming to end their long wait for a maiden IPL title in 2026. Former Indian cricketer Aakash Chopra highlighted that frequent changes in captains and playing XIs have hurt both teams, stressing the importance of stability and continuity. He praised Delhi's improved auction strategy, calling their squad balanced, though slightly weak in spin.
Meanwhile, Irfan Pathan pointed out Delhi's past failure to utilise talents like AB de Villiers and Andre Russell. He credited Punjab's recent revival to better leadership, smart auction decisions, and strong all-rounders. With improved planning and squad depth, both franchises could finally break their title drought in IPL 2026.
Varun Chakravarthy Shares Mental Challenges During Early IPL Career
Varun Chakravarthy opened up about the mental challenges he faced early in his IPL career, revealing he suffered panic attacks almost every night during his first two seasons. The Kolkata Knight Riders spinner said the pressure of entering the league at 28, combined with financial struggles and uncertainty, took a heavy toll on him.
He credited his wife for helping him cope during that phase. Varun also highlighted that most cricketers face significant struggles behind the glamour. Meanwhile, KKR captain Ajinkya Rahane backed him to bounce back in IPL 2026, expressing confidence in his ability to overcome challenges and deliver consistently for the team.
