As IPL 2026 approaches, several important updates have emerged off the field. Teams are making ownership changes, leadership roles are being adjusted, and some players may not feature in the upcoming season.
Here is a simple overview of the latest IPL 2026 news and developments.
Rajasthan Royals and RCB Get New Owners
Two IPL teams are set to have new ownership ahead of the 2026 season.
Rajasthan Royals have been sold to a consortium led by US-based entrepreneur Kal Somani. The deal values the franchise at around $1.63 billion. With this agreement, Rajasthan Royals become the first IPL team to be completely owned by a foreign group.
Royal Challengers Bengaluru are also going through a major ownership change. A consortium that includes the Aditya Birla Group led by Kumar Mangalam Birla, Blackstone, and Bolt Ventures led by David Blitzer is expected to take control of the franchise. The final details of the transaction are being completed as IPL 2026 gets closer.
IPL Team Ownership Updates
| Team | New Ownership Group | Estimated Value |
|---|---|---|
| Rajasthan Royals | Consortium led by Kal Somani | $1.63 billion |
| Royal Challengers Bengaluru | Aditya Birla Group, Blackstone, Bolt Ventures | Not officially confirmed |
These ownership changes could bring new strategies and investments for the teams in the coming seasons.
Yash Dayal Will Not Play in IPL 2026
Royal Challengers Bengaluru will be without fast bowler Yash Dayal in IPL 2026.
The left-arm pacer from Uttar Pradesh has been linked to serious allegations reported by two women, one of whom was a minor at the time. Because of this situation, he will not be part of RCB’s squad for the upcoming IPL season.
The franchise confirmed that Dayal will not participate in the tournament, although he remains under contract with the team.
Also See : Young PBKS Spinner Vishal Nishad Calls Virat Kohli His Idol, Targets His Wicket in IPL 2026
Rinku Singh Named Vice-Captain of KKR
Kolkata Knight Riders have announced a leadership change ahead of IPL 2026.
During the Knights Unplugged 3.0 event, Rinku Singh was named the vice-captain of the team. The decision reflects the franchise’s confidence in the left-hand batter, who has become one of KKR’s most reliable players in recent seasons.
KKR are also dealing with some injury concerns within the squad, but the team hopes the new leadership structure will help them prepare well for the upcoming campaign.
Impact Player Rule Could Be Reviewed
The Impact Player rule introduced by the BCCI in 2023 is still a topic of discussion.
Cricket officials are expected to talk about the rule during the IPL captains’ meeting before the start of the tournament. While no changes have been confirmed yet, the discussion may focus on how the rule has affected team strategies.
Many teams have used the rule to strengthen their batting or bowling during matches, making it an important tactical element in recent IPL seasons.
Cricbuzz Becomes PSL Broadcast Partner
In another major cricket development, Walee Technologies, which holds the media rights for the Pakistan Super League, has announced a new partnership.
Cricbuzz will become the official broadcast partner for PSL 2026 in the following regions:
| Region | Broadcast Partner |
|---|---|
| North America | Cricbuzz |
| Middle East and North Africa | Cricbuzz |
This deal will allow fans in these regions to watch PSL matches through Cricbuzz platforms.
Ben Duckett Banned from IPL for Two Seasons
England opener Ben Duckett will not participate in the IPL for the next two seasons.
Duckett was bought for ₹2 crore in the IPL 2026 auction. However, he later decided to withdraw from the tournament in order to prioritise England’s international cricket schedule.
Because of this withdrawal, he has been banned from the IPL for two seasons according to tournament rules.
With IPL 2026 approaching, several off-field developments are shaping the upcoming season. New ownership for teams, leadership changes, player absences, and broadcasting deals are all part of the evolving story.
As teams continue their preparations, more updates are expected before the tournament begins.
