The sale of Rajasthan Royals for around $1.63 billion (₹15,000+ crore) has resulted in a massive financial gain for Shane Warne’s family. During the inaugural Indian Premier League season in 2008, Warne negotiated a special clause granting him a 0.75% ownership stake for each season he played. Having played four seasons, he accumulated a 3% stake. With the franchise’s soaring valuation, this stake is now worth approximately ₹450–460 crore. The payout, subject to approvals, highlights Warne’s foresight in securing long-term financial benefits beyond his playing career. (PC: HT)

Netherlands pacer Paul van Meekeren said a small share of Royal Challengers Bengaluru’s Rs 16,660 crore sale could help Dutch cricket grow. After the franchise was sold to a multi-industry consortium, he posted that “0.5%” of the amount could help close the gap with top teams. “If only they could give 0.5%… we could close the gap to full members,” he wrote on X. The Netherlands recently competed in the T20 World Cup 2026 and showed strong performances despite an early exit. Players from associate nations have asked for more matches against top sides. RCB’s sale came after former owners United Spirits reviewed its stake. (PC: India Today)

Aryaman Birla, son of Kumar Mangalam Birla, has been appointed chairman of Royal Challengers Bengaluru following its acquisition by an Aditya Birla Group-led consortium. The deal, worth about $1.78 billion (₹16,700 crore), makes it one of the biggest in IPL history. Aryaman Birla, a former domestic cricketer who played for Madhya Pradesh and was picked by Rajasthan Royals, brings both business and cricketing experience. He has played nine first-class matches, scoring 414 runs, including a century. (PC: ESPN)

Reigning IPL champions Royal Challengers Bengaluru have announced they will keep 11 seats empty during their next home match to honour victims of a recent stampede tragedy. The symbolic gesture aims to pay respect to those who lost their lives and raise awareness about crowd safety at large events. The franchise expressed solidarity with the affected families and emphasized the importance of stricter safety measures at public gatherings. The decision has been widely appreciated by fans and the cricketing community, highlighting how sports teams can use their platform to promote social responsibility and remembrance.

Royal Challengers Bengaluru has been sold for over Rs 16,000 crore in a record IPL deal. A group led by the Aditya Birla Group bought the team from United Spirits. The deal is worth about $1.78 billion. It makes RCB the most expensive IPL franchise ever. Aryaman Vikram Birla will be chairman. Satyan Gajwani will be vice chairman. The new owners said they want to grow RCB into a global brand. RCB is also the current IPL champion. The deal shows the rising value of the IPL. Earlier, Rajasthan Royals was sold for around Rs 15,290 crore in another major deal. (PC: BCCI)

A US-led consortium headed by Kal Somani has acquired a majority stake in Rajasthan Royals for $1.63 billion (Rs 15,000 crore), setting a new valuation benchmark in the Indian Premier League. Backed by investors including Rob Walton, the deal marks a major private equity push into Indian sports. The sale, overseen by Raine Group, outbid rival consortiums. With this benchmark, Royal Challengers Bengaluru valuations are expected to exceed $2 billion amid intense bidding. Ownership transfer follows IPL 2026. Meanwhile, Rajasthan Royals, led by Riyan Parag, remain focused on their upcoming season opener. (PC: X)

Rajasthan Royals have been sold to a US-led consortium for about Rs 15,000 crore, reports said. The deal values the franchise at $1.63 billion and sets a new benchmark in the IPL. The group is led by US entrepreneur Kal Somani and includes global investors. The sale followed weeks of bidding and was handled by an investment bank. Reports said the bid was preferred for its “strategic alignment and financial immediacy.” The ownership change will take effect after IPL 2026. Meanwhile, interest in Royal Challengers Bengaluru has grown, with its valuation expected to cross $2 billion. (PC: India Today)

Royal Challengers Bengaluru said pacer Yash Dayal, who faces rape allegations, will not play in IPL 2026. He remains under contract with the team. Director of cricket Mo Bobat said, “Yash is going through a personal situation. He remains under contract, but he won't be with us this season.” Dayal has not joined training before the season. His absence is linked to ongoing legal cases. He took 13 wickets in RCB’s 2025 title-winning season. The team cannot sign a replacement as he is still contracted. RCB will depend on other bowlers to manage the season without him.

Hardik Pandya has revealed a deeply spiritual aspect of his life, saying he listens to the Hanuman Chalisa even while driving his luxury Ferrari. The India all-rounder stated that no song provides as much positive energy as the devotional hymn. The revelation came during a public interaction, surprising fans given his flamboyant lifestyle. Pandya emphasized faith as a source of strength ahead of upcoming cricket challenges, including leading Mumbai Indians, while balancing success, controversies, and expectations. (PC: X)

Virat Kohli has brushed aside viral rumours claiming he demanded chartered flights from Royal Challengers Bengaluru for frequent travel between India and London during IPL 2026. The speculation, triggered by a social media post, suggested Kohli wanted special travel access and family visits during match breaks. Responding in a light-hearted manner, Kohli posted laughing emojis on Instagram, effectively dismissing the claims. Fresh off RCB’s maiden IPL title, he has rejoined training and urged teammates to maintain intensity, as the franchise prepares to begin its new season campaign with renewed focus. (PC: Instagram)