IPL News Bulletin May 7: Final Venue Shift, Hardik Return and Connolly Record

Venue drama, injury concerns, record-breaking knocks and fielding disasters - IPL 2026 continues to intensify as the playoff race enters a crucial phase. Here's your latest roundup from around the league.

1. BCCI shifts IPL 2026 final from Bengaluru to Ahmedabad

The BCCI has officially moved the IPL 2026 final from Bengaluru to Ahmedabad, with the Narendra Modi Stadium now set to host the title clash on May 31.

While the board cited "requirements beyond established guidelines and protocols" from local authorities as the reason behind the switch, reports suggest political ticket allocation demands may have contributed to the decision.

The move also means Ahmedabad will once again host the league's biggest fixture, continuing its status as the BCCI's preferred venue for marquee events.

2. Hardik Pandya expected back for must-win MI vs RCB clash

Mumbai Indians captain Hardik Pandya is expected to return for MI's crucial clash against Royal Challengers Bengaluru in Raipur after missing the previous game with a back spasm.

Pandya sat out the win over Lucknow Super Giants, with Suryakumar Yadav leading the side in his absence. MI management reportedly considers the issue minor, though the all-rounder will continue to be monitored ahead of the must-win encounter.

With Mumbai sitting ninth on the table, their playoff hopes remain extremely slim, meaning any further injury setbacks could prove costly.

3. Cooper Connolly scripts IPL history despite PBKS defeat to SRH

Punjab Kings youngster Cooper Connolly produced one of the standout knocks of IPL 2026, becoming the youngest overseas centurion in tournament history.

The Australian smashed an unbeaten 107 off 59 balls against Sunrisers Hyderabad in a mammoth chase of 236, surpassing Quinton de Kock and David Warner on the all-time list.

Despite Connolly's heroics, PBKS fell short as SRH posted 235/4 and secured a 33-run victory to strengthen their position at the top of the table.

4. Punjab Kings' catching woes under scrutiny after third straight defeat

Punjab Kings' fielding issues are becoming a major concern after another sloppy performance against Sunrisers Hyderabad.

PBKS dropped three catches and missed a stumping opportunity as Ishan Kishan and Heinrich Klaasen punished them heavily in SRH's 235-run total.

Spin-bowling coach Sairaj Bahutule admitted the dropped chances proved costly, while analysts described the catching struggles as "an infection" spreading through the side during a poor run of form.

5. PCB launches legal recovery drive against PSL partners and franchises

The Pakistan Cricket Board has reportedly issued legal notices to defaulting PSL franchises, broadcasters and commercial partners over unpaid dues running into billions of rupees.

According to reports, the PCB is attempting to recover outstanding payments tied to media rights, sponsorships and franchise agreements after several entities allegedly failed to honour financial commitments.

The issue has also reportedly delayed the board's financial auditing process.