IPL News Bulletin March 25: RCB Tops Valuation, RR Comes Second; Rinku Singh Named VC Of KKR, Yash Dayal Sidelined From Season

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IPL News Bulletin March 25: The build-up to the Indian Premier League 2026 season has been marked by major developments both on and off the field, reflecting the tournament's growing global stature. From record-breaking franchise valuations led by Royal Challengers Bengaluru and Rajasthan Royals to emotional fan tributes and new playing rules aimed at improving on-field balance, the league continues to evolve.

Teams are also reshaping squads through injury replacements, leadership changes, and strategic signings. Alongside IPL action, voices like Sourav Ganguly highlight broader cricketing ambitions, underlining a season that blends competition, innovation, and emotion.

Here are the major news bulletins for March 25 from the world's richest cricket league.

RCB Becomes Most Valuable At $1.78B, Rajasthan Royals Second

The Indian Premier League valuation landscape has been reshaped by record-breaking franchise sales in 2026. Royal Challengers Bengaluru became the most valuable team after a landmark $1.78 billion (₹16,706 crore) deal, surpassing Rajasthan Royals, which was sold earlier for $1.63 billion (₹15,300 crore).

These back-to-back mega deals have significantly raised overall IPL franchise valuations, highlighting the league's growing financial strength and global appeal, while setting new benchmarks for team ownership and investment in T20 cricket.

RCB Reveal Emotional Tribute Plan for Fans

Royal Challengers Bengaluru will pay tribute to fans who lost their lives last year during their first home game of IPL 2026 at M. Chinnaswamy Stadium. Players will wear jersey number 11 in warm-ups, black armbands during the match, and 11 seats will remain vacant. CEO Rajesh Menon said the gesture honours fans' lasting connection with the team.

RCB has also introduced enhanced safety measures, including AI-powered CCTV surveillance, improved crowd management, revised entry protocols, and upgraded infrastructure. With ₹7 crore invested, the franchise aims to ensure a secure and smooth matchday experience for spectators.

IPL 2026 Introduces Second New Ball Rule

The Indian Premier League has introduced a new ball-change rule for IPL 2026 to counter the impact of dew in night matches. In the second innings, the bowling team can request a replacement ball once after the 10th over, with umpires providing one of similar wear. This aims to address difficulties bowlers face with a wet ball, especially spinners and pacers executing variations.

The rule could reduce the advantage of chasing teams, making matches more balanced and the toss less decisive. It is expected to particularly benefit spinners by restoring grip and control, allowing better execution of turn and flight. Additionally, it introduces new tactical decisions for captains regarding timing, bowling rotations, and match strategies, enhancing overall competitiveness.

Pat Cummins Fitness Update

Sunrisers Hyderabad will start the IPL 2026 season without regular captain Pat Cummins, who is recovering from a back injury and is expected to miss the early matches. Ishan Kishan will lead the side initially. Meanwhile, Sri Lankan pacer Eshan Malinga has received clearance to join the squad, strengthening their bowling attack ahead of the season.

England Pacer David Payne Joins SRH

Sunrisers Hyderabad have signed David Payne as an injury replacement for Jack Edwards ahead of IPL 2026. The experienced left-arm pacer, with over 300 T20 wickets, joins for ₹1.5 crore to strengthen SRH's bowling attack. Meanwhile, Kolkata Knight Riders have replaced injured Akash Deep, who is sidelined with a lumbar stress injury, with left-arm pacer Saurabh Dubey for ₹30 lakh. Both teams are making final squad adjustments to maintain balance and competitiveness ahead of the IPL 2026 season.

Yash Dayal Sidelined From IPL 2026

Royal Challengers Bengaluru have suffered a major setback ahead of IPL 2026 as bowler Yash Dayal will miss the season due to personal reasons, confirmed by team director Mo Bobat. His absence follows ongoing legal controversies, adding to the team's concerns. Led by Rajat Patidar, RCB will begin their title defence against Sunrisers Hyderabad, captained by Ishan Kishan, on March 28 at M. Chinnaswamy Stadium. While RCB aim to defend their 2025 title, SRH will look to improve after missing the playoffs last season.

CSK Replace Injured Nathan Ellis With Spencer Johnson

Chennai Super Kings have signed Spencer Johnson as a replacement for injured Nathan Ellis ahead of IPL 2026. Ellis was ruled out with a hamstring injury, prompting CSK to bring in Johnson for ₹1.5 crore. The left-arm pacer, who has international and IPL experience, recently withdrew from the Pakistan Super League due to personal reasons. Known for his pace, yorkers, and variations, Johnson is expected to strengthen CSK's bowling attack, particularly in death overs, as the team prepares for the new season.

KKR Name Rinku Singh Vice-Captain For IPL 2026

Kolkata Knight Riders have appointed Rinku Singh as vice-captain for IPL 2026, supporting new skipper Ajinkya Rahane. The announcement was made by CEO Venky Mysore, recognising Rinku's consistent performances and growing influence since joining in 2018. He replaces Venkatesh Iyer in the role.

Rinku, famous for his five sixes in IPL 2023, has scored over 1000 IPL runs and was part of KKR's 2024 title-winning squad. With a refreshed coaching staff, KKR aim to blend experience and emerging leadership as they begin their campaign against the Mumbai Indians.

India Will Win World Test Championship: Sourav Ganguly

Sourav Ganguly expressed strong confidence that the Indian national cricket team will eventually win the World Test Championship, stating that it is only a matter of time. Despite recent setbacks in crucial matches, he believes India's deep talent pool will help them overcome challenges. Ganguly also highlighted the importance of Test cricket, calling it the purest format that demands endurance, skill, and long bowling spells, unlike the less physically demanding T20 format.

While acknowledging the growing popularity and evolution of T20 cricket, he emphasised that Test cricket still holds a special place in countries like India, England, Australia, and South Africa. He added that the upcoming challenges under Gautam Gambhir will test the team's resilience and character.