IPL 2026 News Bulletin March 19: Ishan Kishan to lead SRH, Four KKR players to arrive in Kolkata Today

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The IPL 2026 is knocking on the doors. Another season of enthralling cricketing action is set to commence from March 28, with Royal Challengers Bengaluru hosting Sunrisers Hyderabad at the M Chinnaswamy Stadium in Bengaluru.

Ahead of that, have a look at the unmissable stories from the galaxy of the Indian Premier League in the March 19 Bulletin.

Ishan Kishan to captain SRH in IPL 2026

Sunrisers Hyderabad have appointed Ishan Kishan as stand-in captain for the initial matches of IPL 2026, with regular skipper Pat Cummins sidelined due to a back injury recovery. The 27-year-old wicketkeeper-batter, fresh off strong T20 World Cup performances, will lead the side until Cummins returns. "Pat Cummins will miss a few games while recovering from injury. Until he recovers, Ishan Kishan will be the Captain," SRH announced. This marks Kishan's first IPL captaincy stint.

Abhishek Sharma named deputy

Abhishek Sharma has been named vice-captain of Sunrisers Hyderabad for IPL 2026 under interim skipper Ishan Kishan, as Pat Cummins recovers from injury. The explosive opener, a long-time SRH player and recent T20 World Cup contributor, will support leadership duties. SRH stated: "Until he recovers, Ishan Kishan will be the Captain and Abhishek Sharma will be the vice-captain." This pairing brings youthful Indian talent to the fore for the Orange Army's campaign.

Yuzvendra Chahal reveals 6-month Alcohol Abstinence

Yuzvendra Chahal has shared his journey of quitting alcohol for six months and beyond, linking it to improved mental health amid past pressures, divorce trauma, and suicidal thoughts. He opened up about alcohol abstinence as he decided to stop drinking entirely for well-being. In recent interviews, Chahal highlighted how sobriety helped him overcome emotional distress and regain focus, emphasizing that "addiction is a disease" and the need for mental health awareness in cricket.

Virat Kohli is my Idol, says PBKS' Suryansh Shedge

Punjab Kings all-rounder Suryansh Shedge has declared Virat Kohli as his cricketing idol, praising his discipline and inspiration. "Virat Kohli bhaiya is my Idol. His discipline is commendable," Shedge said in a recent interaction with MyKhel.

The youngster expressed admiration for Kohli's work ethic and added that playing alongside him was a childhood dream, while he also named Ben Stokes as another player that he admires for the England player's elite skillset and ability to win matches from anywhere.

Anil Kumble predicts Sanju Samson to be CSK Vice Captain

Legendary spinner Anil Kumble has predicted Sanju Samson will effectively serve as Chennai Super Kings' vice-captain in IPL 2026, supporting captain Ruturaj Gaikwad and mentor MS Dhoni. Kumble noted Samson's Rajasthan Royals leadership experience makes him ideal for stability and stepping in if needed. The Kerala-born was traded to CSK from Rajasthan Royals, a move that saw Ravindra Jadeja and Sam Curran going the other way.

KKR to continue Practice Today at Eden

Kolkata Knight Riders are set to continue their practice at the Eden Gardens today, as they enter the 2nd day of their pre-season practice. KKR have the majority of their players already in Kolkata and will practice at Eden from 4 pm. The Knight Riders begin their campaign against Mumbai Indians on March 29.

Four KKR players to join team Today

Four KKR players are scheduled to link up with the team today as they reach Kolkata in the evening. The New Zealand trio Rachin Ravindra, Finn Allen and Tim Seifert will come to Kolkata, while Indian spinner and T20 World Cup winner Varun Chakravarthy is set to join the side today. KKR captain Ajinkya Rahane, Rinku Singh, Umran Malik are among the names who have already set foot in the City of Joy.