Tag: Cricket News

Sports

RCB Pledges ₹25 Lakh Each to Stampede Victims’ Families, Launches ‘RCB Cares’ for Long-Term Support

Tanisha Cardozo

On June 4, 2025, what should have been a moment of jubilation turned into a heartbreaking tragedy. During the celebrations of Royal Challengers Bengaluru’s historic win in this year’s IPL, a stampede broke out at the Chinnaswamy Stadium, claiming the lives of 11 fans and injuring many others. Nearly three months later, RCB has released a statement reaffirming its commitment to those affected—not just in words, but through action.

In a poignant message posted on August 30, RCB expressed deep sorrow, stating, “Our hearts broke on June 4. We lost eleven members of the RCB family. They were part of us. Part of what makes our city, our community & our team unique. Their absence will echo in the memories of each one of us.”

The team announced it is extending ₹25 lakh to each of the families of the deceased. This is in addition to the ₹10 lakh per family that was announced shortly after the incident in June. The team emphasized that this support goes beyond financial aid. “It is a promise of compassion, unity, and ongoing care. No amount of support can ever fill the space they’ve left behind. But as a first step, and with the deepest respect, RCB has extended ₹25 lakh each to their families.”

Alongside this, RCB officially launched ‘RCB Cares’, a long-term commitment designed to provide ongoing support, not just for the families of the deceased, but also for injured fans and the larger community. “RCB Cares grew out of a need to honour, to heal, and to stand beside our fans,” the team said.

The tragedy has not only left an emotional scar on the team and its fans but also sparked political debate. The opposition BJP held the ruling Congress government accountable, questioning the presence of Deputy CM DK Shivakumar at the venue. Shivakumar clarified that his presence was requested by the city’s Police Commissioner to help disperse the crowd swiftly. Amid this political turmoil, RCB had maintained a near-total public silence—until now.

Two days ago, the team broke its silence with a heartfelt post: “The Silence wasn’t Absence. It was Grief.” The message continued, “In that silence, we’ve been grieving. Listening. Learning. And slowly, we’ve begun to build something more than just a response. Something we truly believe in.”

With the announcement of increased support and the launch of ‘RCB Cares’, Royal Challengers Bengaluru has taken a step toward healing—not just for the victims’ families, but for a fanbase united in both celebration and mourning. As the city continues to move forward, the echoes of June 4 remain, and RCB’s latest move ensures that those who were lost will not be forgotten.

Sports

Indian Ace Spinner Ravichandran Ashwin Plans to Retire from IPL

Tanisha Cardozo

Written by Intern Queeny George M.H , Team Allycaral

August 27, 2025: One of Indian cricket’s most iconic spin bowlers, Ravichandran Ashwin, is contemplating retirement from the Indian Premier League (IPL). The 38-year-old veteran has hinted at stepping away from the league, marking the close of a glittering IPL journey that began in 2009.

Ashwin made his debut for Chennai Super Kings (CSK) and quickly became a cornerstone of their bowling attack. He played a pivotal role in CSK’s back-to-back title wins in 2010 and 2011, even earning Player of the Series in the Champions League T20 in 2010.

With 221 matches and 187 wickets, Ashwin currently ranks as the fifth-highest wicket-taker in IPL history. He featured in 16 of the 18 IPL seasons, representing a range of teams including:

  • Chennai Super Kings (2009–2015)
  • Rising Pune Supergiant (2016–2017)
  • Punjab Kings (2018–2019, as captain)
  • Delhi Capitals (2020–2021)
  • Rajasthan Royals (2022–2025)

Ashwin’s intelligent bowling, leadership, and ability to adapt made him one of the most respected figures in the league. Whether opening the bowling or bowling the death overs, his versatility was unmatched.

“It’s been on my mind for a while,” Ashwin shared in a recent interview. “The IPL has given me everything. It may be time to pass the torch to the next generation.”

🎯 Career Highlights:

  • IPL titles with CSK (2010, 2011)
  • 187 wickets in 221 matches
  • Captaincy stint with Punjab Kings
  • Famous dismissal of Chris Gayle in IPL 2011 final

While Ashwin may be ready to exit IPL, he is expected to remain active in domestic cricket and coaching circles. His contributions to Indian cricket, both in IPL and international formats, continue to shape the next generation of players.

Sports

Former Indian Captain Turned Ex-BCCI Chairman Sourav Ganguly Appointed Head Coach of Pretoria Capitals

Tanisha Cardozo

Written by Intern Queeny George M.H , Team Allycaral

The “Maharaja of Indian Cricket”, Sourav Ganguly, has officially returned to frontline cricket—this time as Head Coach of the Pretoria Capitals in the upcoming 2026 edition of SA20, South Africa’s leading T20 cricket league.

At 53, Ganguly is proving once again that age is no barrier when it comes to passion and leadership. His appointment follows the exit of former England cricketer Jonathan Trott, who coached the Capitals in the 2023–2025 seasons and is now the Head Coach of Afghanistan’s national team.

Ganguly’s cricket journey has spanned decades—captain of Team India, a powerful figure in world cricket as BCCI President, and now, a mentor and coach stepping into one of the sport’s biggest franchise leagues. Prior to his BCCI role, he also served as a mentor with the Delhi Capitals in the Indian Premier League and is currently the Director of JSW Sports, the parent company of Pretoria Capitals.

The 2026 edition of the SA20 tournament will be held from December 26, 2025 to January 25, 2026, to avoid a direct clash with the ICC Cricket World Cup.

Ganguly expressed his gratitude and optimism about the role:

“All the best and thank you for having me,” he shared, signaling his commitment to lead the Capitals into a new era.

With Ganguly’s proven tactical mind and inspirational leadership, Pretoria Capitals will be looking to rebuild and push for a strong finish in the upcoming season. His mentorship is expected to play a vital role in developing young talent and infusing the team with a winning mentality.

Sports

BCCI Announces 15-Member Team India Squad for Asia Cup 2025

allycaralgoa

The Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI) has officially announced the Indian squad for the upcoming Asia Cup 2025, which will be played in the United Arab Emirates (UAE) from September 9 to 28.

In a major decision, Suryakumar Yadav has been appointed as captain, marking his return to leadership duties. Young batting star Shubman Gill has been entrusted with the role of vice-captain, highlighting the selectors’ vision for grooming future leaders of Indian cricket.

On the bowling front, India’s pace attack will be spearheaded by Jasprit Bumrah, who continues to be the strike weapon in crucial tournaments. With a balanced squad comprising both experienced stalwarts and emerging talents, India looks confident heading into the tournament.

The Asia Cup 2025 will serve as an important platform for testing combinations and strategies ahead of the ICC global tournaments scheduled next year. Cricket fans are eagerly anticipating high-voltage clashes, especially against traditional rivals Pakistan and Sri Lanka, as India aims to add another continental trophy to its illustrious cabinet.

The tournament will kick off on September 9, with the grand finale scheduled for September 28. Team India will begin its campaign with high hopes and a powerful lineup.

Stay tuned for match updates, analysis, and exclusive coverage on allycaral.com.

Human Interest

Arjun Tendulkar’s Rumoured Engagement to Saaniya Chandok Sparks Buzz

Tanisha Cardozo

A Private Engagement or Just Public Curiosity?

In what might be Mumbai’s most talked-about (but unconfirmed) engagement of the year, Arjun Tendulkar—cricketer and son of the legendary Sachin Tendulkar—is rumoured to be engaged to Saaniya Chandok, granddaughter of hospitality magnate Ravi Ghai. The alleged engagement reportedly took place in a private setting, with only close family and friends in attendance, according to a report by India Today.

However, Times Now Digital stated they couldn’t verify the claim independently, leaving the rumour mill to churn—with equal parts speculation and excitement.

Who Is Saaniya Chandok?

While not a public figure in the traditional sense, Saaniya Chandok is no stranger to pedigree. Her grandfather, Ravi Ghai, is a cornerstone of India’s hospitality industry through Graviss Hospitality Ltd., which owns the InterContinental hotel on Marine Drive and popular dessert brand The Brooklyn Creamery.

But Saaniya has carved her own entrepreneurial path. A graduate of the London School of Economics and a certified Veterinary Technician (Worldwide Veterinary Service, 2024), she is also the founder of Mr. Paws Pet Spa & Store LLP, a boutique pet care brand based in Mumbai.

Inside the Ghai Hospitality Empire

The Ghai family legacy stretches back to the 1940s, beginning with Iqbal Krishan “IK” Ghai, known as the ‘Maharajah of Ice Cream’. From serving American soldiers homemade ice cream during WWII to founding Kwality Ice Cream, his sweet innovations redefined India’s dessert industry.

His son, Ravi Ghai, took the brand global and diversified into luxury hospitality with the InterContinental. However, recent headlines have been less flattering: just weeks ago, Ravi and his son Gaurav were reportedly embroiled in a legal dispute over control of Graviss Hospitality—allegations of forgery and betrayal casting a shadow over the otherwise iconic brand.

How Do Saaniya and Arjun Know Each Other?

While neither the Tendulkar nor Ghai families have spoken publicly, signs of a budding bond have been visible for some time. Social media detectives have found images of Saaniya and Arjun’s sister, Sara Tendulkar, vacationing together in Jaipur and attending IPL matches—suggesting more than just surface-level acquaintance.

Where Is Arjun Tendulkar in His Career?

Professionally, Arjun continues to chase cricketing dreams. A left-arm fast bowler, he plays for Goa in domestic cricket and appeared for the Mumbai Indians in the 2023 and 2024 IPL seasons. Despite the spotlight on his last name, he’s working steadily to build his own path in Indian cricket.

Interestingly, just hours before the reported engagement, Arjun’s Instagram story showed only a cricket ground with the caption: “Just cricket ground.” Poetic timing or pure coincidence?

Following in Sachin’s Romantic Footsteps?

If true, Arjun’s engagement would echo his father’s romantic journey. Sachin Tendulkar proposed to Anjali Mehta when he was just 19, waiting until 22 to marry in 1995. Like his father, Arjun seems to favour quiet commitment over loud declarations—perhaps a modern update to a classic love story.

Mumbai’s Next Power Couple in the Making?

Cricket legacy on one side. Hospitality royalty on the other. Both deeply rooted in Mumbai’s elite circles. If the rumoured engagement proves true, Arjun Tendulkar and Saaniya Chandok could very well become the city’s next power couple—balancing fame, business, and quiet charisma.

But until we hear it from the Tendulkars or Ghais themselves, this remains a story wrapped in rumour, tradition, and tantalising curiosity.