IPL News Bulletin March 22: Akash Deep Ruled Out, Kohli Warns RCB, Dhoni’s Role in Focus

Add as a preferred source on Google

With just days to go before IPL 2026 begins, the tempo is rising across camps - injuries are reshaping squads, legends remain at the centre of speculation, and captains are setting the tone before the first ball is bowled. The final stretch before the season opener is already producing defining storylines.

Here are the top headlines from the latest IPL developments.

1. Akash Deep ruled out of IPL 2026, KKR pace crisis deepens

Kolkata Knight Riders have suffered another major setback after pacer Akash Deep was ruled out of IPL 2026.

The India fast bowler has been undergoing rehabilitation at the BCCI's Centre of Excellence and did not report to the KKR training camp. His absence adds to the franchise's mounting bowling concerns, with Harshit Rana already sidelined and Matheesha Pathirana still awaiting clearance.

KKR now face the urgent task of identifying replacements ahead of their opening match against Mumbai Indians on March 29.

2. Virat Kohli delivers intense warning to RCB squad before title defence

Virat Kohli has issued a strong message to Royal Challengers Bengaluru teammates, urging them not to "waste even a minute" as they prepare to defend their IPL title.

Addressing the squad at Chinnaswamy Stadium, Kohli stressed that defending champions face even greater pressure, warning that rival teams will come harder at them this season.

RCB begin their IPL 2026 campaign against Sunrisers Hyderabad on March 28.

3. MS Dhoni tipped for mentor-style role in possible final IPL season

Former India cricketer Robin Uthappa believes IPL 2026 could mark MS Dhoni's final season, with the veteran likely to adopt a mentor-like role.

Uthappa suggested Dhoni may bat lower down the order and gradually transition into a guiding presence rather than a central batting figure, while backing Ruturaj Gaikwad to continue as captain.

Dhoni remains one of only four players to have featured in every IPL season since the league began in 2008.

4. Rishabh Pant and LSG owner visit Ayodhya temple ahead of IPL

Lucknow Super Giants captain Rishabh Pant and franchise owner Sanjiv Goenka visited the Ram Janmabhoomi temple in Ayodhya ahead of IPL 2026.

The visit was shared by the franchise on social media, showing players offering prayers as the team prepares for the upcoming season. LSG are among several teams completing final preparations before the tournament begins.

5. Vaibhav Suryavanshi wins laughs with witty response on IPL goals

Teenage sensation Vaibhav Suryavanshi left reporters amused after jokingly claiming he would score "two to three thousand runs" when asked about his IPL 2026 goals.

The Rajasthan Royals opener later clarified that his focus remains on process and team success rather than personal milestones. Expectations remain high after his breakout IPL 2025 season and Under-19 World Cup heroics.

The IPL rarely begins quietly - it builds momentum through uncertainty, anticipation, and personality. And with injuries mounting, leaders speaking up, and young stars embracing the spotlight, IPL 2026 is already gathering narrative weight before the first ball is even bowled.