IPL 2026 News Bulletin March 13: Dhoni Verdict, Pant-Yuvraj Training, IPL Developments

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As the cricket calendar pivots from India's historic T20 World Cup triumph to the build-up for IPL 2026, developments across boards, franchises and global leagues continue to shape the conversation. From governance decisions and auction controversies to team preparations and corruption investigations, the pre-IPL landscape is already buzzing with major stories.

Here are the top headlines from the cricket world.

1. MS Dhoni cleared of conflict of interest allegations by BCCI ahead of IPL 2026

The BCCI has cleared MS Dhoni of conflict of interest allegations after its Ethics Officer dismissed a complaint filed against the Chennai Super Kings veteran.

The complaint claimed Dhoni violated BCCI regulations by simultaneously being a "current player" and owning a cricket academy operated by Aarka Sports and Management Private Limited.

However, Ethics Officer Justice Arun Mishra ruled that the agreement related to the academies had been signed in 2017, before the revised conflict-of-interest regulations came into force in September 2018. As a result, no breach of rules could be established.

The decision removes any uncertainty over Dhoni's availability for IPL 2026, with the CSK veteran expected to feature throughout the season.

2. BCCI assures IPL 2026 will proceed despite West Asia conflict concerns

The BCCI has reassured fans that IPL 2026 will go ahead as scheduled despite concerns arising from the ongoing US-Israel-Iran conflict.

BCCI Vice-President Rajeev Shukla confirmed that the tournament will proceed according to plan, although officials are monitoring the situation closely due to possible travel disruptions and rising airfares.

The conflict had already caused delays in players returning home after the T20 World Cup due to airspace closures across West Asia. While the schedule for the first 20 IPL matches has already been announced, the remaining fixtures will be released once election dates in several Indian states are confirmed.

3. Sunrisers Leeds face backlash after signing Pakistan spinner Abrar Ahmed

Sunrisers Leeds, an Indian-owned franchise in The Hundred, has faced online backlash after signing Pakistan mystery spinner Abrar Ahmed in the men's player auction.

Abrar became the first Pakistani cricketer to join an Indian-owned team in the competition after being signed for USD 255,000.

The move sparked criticism on social media, with some fans questioning the decision due to India-Pakistan political tensions. Shortly after the signing, the franchise's official account on X (formerly Twitter) was also suspended, although the platform did not specify the reason.

4. Rishabh Pant trains with Yuvraj Singh ahead of IPL 2026 season

Rishabh Pant has been working closely with former India all-rounder Yuvraj Singh in Mumbai as part of his preparations for IPL 2026.

The two spent several days training at the Brabourne Stadium, focusing on improving Pant's white-ball batting and experimenting with new stroke options.

Pant is aiming to bounce back after a modest IPL 2025 campaign and hopes a strong season could help revive his chances of returning to India's white-ball squads.

5. ICC provisionally suspends ex-IPL player Javon Searles in corruption probe

The ICC has provisionally suspended West Indies cricketer Javon Searles along with team officials Chitranjan Rathod and Trevon Griffith as part of an ongoing corruption investigation.

The charges relate to alleged breaches of the Cricket West Indies Anti-Corruption Code during the Bim10 Tournament 2023/24.

The individuals face accusations including attempts to influence matches, encouraging corrupt conduct, and failing to cooperate with investigators. All three have been suspended from cricket with immediate effect while disciplinary proceedings continue.

6. Punjab Kings unveil new jersey ahead of IPL 2026 campaign

Punjab Kings have unveiled their new jersey design ahead of the IPL 2026 season.

The updated kit retains the team's traditional red and blue colours while introducing a new lion motif and diamond-shaped patterns across the fabric. According to the franchise, the design symbolises aggression, instinct and the transformation of raw talent through preparation and competition.

The jersey will make its on-field debut when Punjab Kings begin their IPL 2026 campaign later this month.

With IPL 2026 just weeks away, the cricket world is already buzzing with off-field developments - from governance decisions and franchise strategies to global controversies that continue to shape the modern game.