Vijay Mallya’s initial purchase of Royal Challengers Bengaluru for $111.6 million was driven by brand promotion, not cricket passion. Now, after an 18-year journey under Diageo’s ownership and a name change to Royal Challengers Bengaluru, the franchise has been sold for a staggering $1.78 billion, marking a colossal 1495% value increase.
American academic Dennis Coyle, detained for over a year in Afghanistan, has been released by Taliban authorities on humanitarian grounds coinciding with Eid al-Fitr. While Washington welcomes this positive step, it renews calls for the return of other Americans still believed to be held, emphasizing an end to ‘hostage diplomacy’.
A consortium including Aditya Birla Group, Times of India, Bolt Ventures, and Blackstone has acquired Royal Challengers Bengaluru (RCB) for $1.78 billion. This landmark deal encompasses both the men’s and women’s IPL and WPL franchises from United Spirits. Aryaman Vikram Birla will chair the team, with Satyan Gajwani as vice-chairman, following the 2026 IPL season.
Carlos Alcaraz suffered a third-round loss to Sebastian Korda at the 2026 Miami Open and plans to take a short break. Speaking after the match, he said he wants to spend time with family and reset before the clay season. He also praised Korda’s performance and called him the deserved winner of the match.
A Delhi court has handed down life imprisonment to Kashmiri separatist leader Asiya Andrabi for conspiring against the state. Her associates, Sofi Fehmeeda and Nahida Nasreen, received 30-year sentences. The court found they plotted Kashmir’s secession from India, using speeches and social media to advocate for its merger with Pakistan and portray it as under
Israel plans to establish a security zone up to the Litani River in southern Lebanon, a significant escalation against Hezbollah. Lebanon responded by expelling Iran’s ambassador, citing diplomatic violations. This move escalates regional tensions, with France urging Israel to avoid a wider ground operation while supporting Lebanon’s diplomatic action.
Several analysts are linking veteran linebacker Matt Milano to the Los Angeles Rams. They suggest he could bolster their defense alongside Nate Landman. Despite past injuries, Milano’s extensive experience and potential impact are seen as valuable assets for a Super Bowl push that Los Angeles needs. The Rams have addressed their secondary by signing cornerbacks
Former Team India captain Sourav Ganguly says he remains deeply involved in cricket and is open to coaching in the future after his stint with Pretoria Capitals. He stressed his passion for the game and willingness to explore opportunities. Ganguly backed Test cricket as the toughest format, said the IPL Impact Player rule will stay,
Epic Games is laying off over 1,000 employees due to financial struggles, with CEO Tim Sweeney citing a significant spending imbalance and a downturn in Fortnite engagement since 2025. These cuts, aimed at improving productivity and financial stability, are not related to AI advancements. The company is implementing cost-saving measures to secure its future.
