IPL 2026 News Bulletin March 20: Sam Curran And Nathan Ellis Sidelined With Injuries, Rajasthan Royals Reject Rs 16,000 Crore Takeover Bid

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With IPL 2026 just around the corner, injury setbacks have already struck key franchises. Nathan Ellis and Sam Curran have both been ruled out of the season, dealing significant blows to the Chennai Super Kings and the Rajasthan Royals, respectively.

Meanwhile, on the sidelines of the cricketing action, the Rajasthan Royals have rejected a massive ₹16,000 crore takeover bid, a move that is expected to significantly boost the valuation of the Royal Challengers Bengaluru.

Ahead of that, here's a look at the must-know stories from the world of the Indian Premier League in the March 20 Bulletin.

Abhishek Sharma Told What To Fix Ahead Of IPL 2026

Abhishek Sharma enters IPL 2026 at a crucial stage. Former South African captain AB de Villiers stressed that the left-hander needs maturity beyond raw power to excel at top-tier cricket. While explosive, he must improve consistency, handle pressure, and adapt to match situations. Converting starts into big scores and reading key bowlers will be vital in evolving from an impact hitter into a dependable match-winner for Sunrisers Hyderabad.

PBKS Target IPL 2026 Title Push

Ahead of IPL 2026, Punjab Kings stars Yuzvendra Chahal and Shashank Singh expressed confidence in the team's preparations and unity. The duo highlighted that Regular training camps have strengthened bonding and mindset, with players focused on winning the title. Emphasising trust, teamwork, and handling pressure, the duo highlighted a positive environment. PBKS also announced Nippon Paint as their new official partner ahead of the season.

Sanjay Bangar's Trans Daughter Shares Life Update

Anaya Bangar, daughter of Sanjay Bangar, has undergone gender-affirming surgery in Thailand, marking a key milestone in her transition journey. With family support, she has shared her experiences openly, highlighting inclusion and medical advancements like fertility preservation. Anaya aims to stay connected to sport, explore women's cricket opportunities, and may appear on Bigg Boss Season 19.

Nathan Ellis Set To Miss IPL 2026

Chennai Super Kings face a major setback as Nathan Ellis is ruled out of IPL 2026 with a hamstring injury. His absence weakens CSK's death bowling, increasing reliance on Matt Henry and Jamie Overton. With limited domestic depth, the franchise is exploring replacements. Led by Ruturaj Gaikwad, CSK begin their campaign on March 30 against the Rajasthan Royals.

Sam Curran Sidelined From IPL 2026

Rajasthan Royals have been dealt a setback with Sam Curran likely to miss IPL 2026 due to injury. The team, led by Riyan Parag, will rely on Ravindra Jadeja and Donovan Ferreira. With a revamped coaching staff under Kumar Sangakkara, RR begin their campaign against Chennai Super Kings on March 30.

RR Rejects Rs 16,000 Takeover Bid

Rajasthan Royals have rejected a ₹16,000 crore bid from Columbia Pacific Capital Partners, aiming for a higher valuation. The move has reset IPL market benchmarks and strengthened RR's negotiating position. It has also impacted Royal Challengers Bengaluru takeover, which could see a valuation surge. The decision highlights the growing status of IPL franchises as global sports assets attracting premium investors.

Sanju Samson Lefts Big Void At RR, Says Du Plessis

Rajasthan Royals enter IPL 2026 in transition after Sanju Samson's exit, which Faf du Plessis calls a major cultural shift. With Riyan Parag as captain and Ravindra Jadeja returning, focus shifts to redefining identity. Yashasvi Jaiswal may face added responsibility, balancing his natural attacking style with expectations in a reshaped team environment.