RoKo Set to Return to India XI in August if BCCI Secures Sri Lanka Tour Approval

July 10, 2025, 2:12 pm

India cricket supporters can potentially expect to see the return of Virat Kohli and Rohit Sharma on the Indian team in August, subject to the Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI) successfully negotiating with chief selector Ajit Agarkar and head coach Gautam Gambhir. This potential comeback depends largely on the BCCI’s decision regarding Sri Lanka Cricket’s (SLC) proposal to organize a short white-ball series in August, filling the gap left by the postponed India tour of Bangladesh.

Sri Lanka Proposes Replacement Series in August

Sri Lanka board has officially approached the BCCI to organize six games—three One-Day Internationals (ODIs) and three T20 Internationals (T20Is)—to replace Bangladesh tour that was originally scheduled from August 17 to 31. Bangladesh tour has been rescheduled for 2026 on account of rising regional security concerns and scheduling complications. It has been learnt that the BCCI has not yet taken a final call on SLC's approach. A source in the know informed Cricbuzz, "There is a pending request from the SLC, but we have not taken a call yet. We would have to see things concerning the Asia Cup. Everything is connected."

Rohit and Kohli Eye ODI Return

If the Sri Lanka series is sanctioned, India's two greatest cricketers, Rohit Sharma and Virat Kohli, might return to ODIs next month. Both cricketers have been concentrating exclusively on ODIs since retiring from Test and T20I cricket after India's 2024 campaign in the T20 World Cup. As Rohit and Kohli did not participate in the current Test series against England and the planned series is a white-ball competition, their inclusion appears bright. But their next official ODI duties are not clear as tournament planning continues to change.

Asia Cup Decision Affects Tour Plans

One of the main reasons affecting the Sri Lanka tour possibility is the forthcoming Asia Cup, which India is scheduled to host from September 17 to 27. The event has yet to receive government sanction on account of political sensitivity as Pakistan's participation is involved. BCCI Secretary Devajit Saikia, currently at Lord’s for the England Test, will consult with key stakeholders, including Gambhir and Agarkar, about both the Sri Lanka tour and Asia Cup plans. These consultations will shape the BCCI’s final stance on the proposed Sri Lanka series.

Security Concerns Delay Bangladesh Tour

The initial Bangladesh tour was postponed until 2026, purportedly on account of "international commitments and scheduling convenience." Yet, sources close to the matter affirm that increasing security issues in the area were a major factor in the decision.

Sri Lanka Series Could Strengthen ODI Preparations

If planned, the Sri Lanka white-ball series will enable the BCCI to make effective use of the August calendar and provide quality match practice to ODI specialists such as Rohit Sharma and Virat Kohli. The preparation will be important before the Asia Cup and other high-profile ICC tournaments. In the meantime, the fans need to wait a little longer but there is hope that Kohli and Rohit will once again wear the India jersey very shortly.

Ben Askren Reveals He ‘Died Four Times’ Before Life-Saving Double Lung Transplant

July 10, 2025, 10:35 am

Former Olympic and UFC wrestler Ben Askren has spoken out about a very personal and potentially life-threatening illness that resulted in a double lung transplant and brought him to the edge of death. In an open video from his hospital bed posted on Wednesday, the 40-year-old disclosed gruesome details of his recent fight for his life. Askren indicated that he has no memory at all of June. "It was like watching my own funeral," he said, noting that he realized the seriousness of his condition only after reading journal entries written by his wife, Amy. The MMA veteran revealed that doctors admitted him to the hospital with severe pneumonia and revived him four times during the ordeal. He even made light of one scary moment when his heart ceased functioning for 20 seconds, quipping, "Not ideal, I don't know if you guys know that."

🚨 Ben Askren releases first public statement following his health difficulties resulting in a double lung transplant “I don’t remember anything from May 28th to July 2nd” “I only died 4 times” pic.twitter.com/jWYYDSxVvu
— Combat Casuals (@Combat_Casuals) July 9, 2025

In a period of 45 days, Askren lost around 50 pounds, falling to 147 pounds—his lightest since he was 15 years old, a TMZ report revealed.

Support from MMA and Wrestling Fans

Askren also cherished the amazing support he received from fans and peers. "The outpouring of love from the wrestling community it's just amazing. It felt so good," he affirmed. "The thing that was most impactful for me was all the love I felt from everybody." During his battle with health, his wife Amy kept his fans updated through constant posts. With Askren now able to speak for himself, he reports that he is getting stronger by the day.

From Olympian to Survivor

Famous for his successful stints in Bellator, ONE Championship, and UFC, Ben Askren is a household name in wrestling as well as MMA. From Olympian to professional combatant to survivor, Askren's transition is a story of his strength. Recovering is an ongoing process, but Askren's resilience and sense of humor during hard times are inspiring millions globally.

Shubman Gill Set to Break Bradman, Kohli & Gavaskar Records

July 10, 2025, 10:15 am

India captain Shubman Gill is in blistering form during the ongoing Anderson-Tendulkar Trophy against England, racking up 585 runs across the first two Tests. His monumental knock of 269 in the first innings and 161 in the second at Edgbaston not only helped India draw level in the five-match series but also smashed several longstanding records.

Gill surpassed Virat Kohli’s record for most runs by an Indian captain in a single innings and overtook Sunil Gavaskar’s tally for most runs in a Test match by an Indian. Notably, he also became the first Asian captain to score a double century in SENA countries and the first batter globally to score both a double century and a 150 in the same Test.

Four Don Bradman World Records in Sight

With three Tests still to go, Gill is on the verge of eclipsing several Test records held by legendary Australian batter Don Bradman—some standing for nearly a century.

1. Most Runs in a Test Series as Captain

Bradman amassed 810 runs as captain in the 1936-37 Ashes. Gill is now only 225 runs short of overtaking that record, a feat made even more notable as both did it during their first series as Test captains.

2. Most Runs in a Test Series (Overall)

Bradman’s 974 runs during the 1930 Ashes is the highest by any batter in a series. With 585 already on the board, Gill trails by 390. Given his current form, the record, long considered unbreakable, may finally be within reach.

“I hope he does that. I don't know whether he will do it, but I am sure that he has an opportunity. He is in great form, and he should do it, that's what I feel,” said former India captain Dilip Vengsarkar.

3. Fastest to 1000 Test Runs as Captain

Bradman reached 1000 runs as Test captain in just 11 innings. Gill, currently 415 runs away from the mark, has six innings left in the series. While challenging, the record isn’t out of bounds if Gill continues to pile up big scores.

4. Most Hundreds in a Test Series

Gill already has three centuries in the series, putting him within striking distance of West Indies legend Clyde Walcott’s record of five tons in a single series (1955 vs Australia). Bradman himself managed four as captain during a series in 1947. Gill needs just two more to match Bradman and three to make history.

Indian Legends Also in Gill’s Rearview Mirror

While the Bradman comparisons steal headlines, Gill is also approaching or surpassing multiple Indian cricketing legends:

Sunil Gavaskar’s 732 runs in a series as Indian captain (1978–79) is just 148 runs away.
He is 18 runs behind Rahul Dravid’s 602—the most by an Indian batter in a Test series in England.
Yashasvi Jaiswal’s 712 runs, the highest tally by an Indian against England in a series, is only 127 runs away.
Gill also stands 91 runs short of Kohli’s 655 as India captain vs England.

Three Matches. One Opportunity to Re-Write History

With three Tests still to play in this landmark series, Shubman Gill finds himself at the epicentre of cricketing history. His consistent brilliance has already earned him comparisons with the greats, and if he continues in this vein, the 2025 England tour might forever bear his name in cricket folklore.

Hyderabad Cricket Body Chief Arrested in IPL Ticket Scam Involving SRH

July 10, 2025, 8:33 am

Hyderabad Cricket Association (HCA) President Jagan Mohan Rao was arrested by the Crime Investigation Department (CID) on Wednesday for a big IPL 2025 ticket scam at the Rajiv Gandhi International Cricket Stadium. The arrest came after a vigilance inquiry initiated by the Telangana government found serious irregularities in ticket distribution and governance norms. Government officials accuse Rao and other members of HCA of unduly pressurizing IPL franchise Sunrisers Hyderabad (SRH) to get additional free tickets. They were reportedly used for personal and black-marketing purposes.

SRH Accuses HCA President of Blackmail

In a lengthy complaint, SRH accused Rao of "intimidation, coercion, and blackmail," claiming that he padlocked a corporate box hours before the game to force more complimentary passes. The action, SRH claimed, was in breach of a tripartite agreement between SRH, HCA, and the BCCI, according to which 10% of the match tickets are given as complimentary passes to HCA. The CID filed an FIR against Rao and other officials after the investigation's conclusion found that there was misuse of power and coercive tactics employed against the franchise.

Threat of Venue Relocation Over Ticket Dispute

The matter reached such a stage that SRH threatened to play their home games away from Hyderabad if the harassment continued. The team had previously approached the IPL Governing Council and the BCCI for help, citing constant "blackmailing tactics" by the HCA. To break the standoff, HCA Secretary R. Devraj discussed with SRH delegates Kiran, Saravanan, and Rohit Suresh. Based on these talks, both sides agreed to retain the current distribution of 3,900 free passes as per traditional practices.

Joint Statement Vows Professional Cooperation

In a communiqué released following the meeting, HCA and SRH both asserted, "HCA and SRH are committed to working together amicably to enhance the spectator experience at the Rajiv Gandhi International Cricket Stadium." They also ensured that the rule of 10% free ticket according to the tri-party agreement would be adhered to strictly in future matches

Lord’s Awaits as India Eyes Lead with Bumrah Set to Return

July 9, 2025, 3:19 pm

The Anderson-Tendulkar Trophy has kicked off with intense competition as India and England are tied 1-1 in the ongoing five-match Test series. In the first Test, England took an early lead with a remarkable five-wicket chase on the final day.

However, India made a powerful comeback in the second Test, even without star pacer Jasprit Bumrah. Skipper Shubman Gill led from the front with outstanding batting, while Akash Deep delivered a career-best performance with the ball.

Bumrah’s Rest Sparks Debate, but India Prove Critics Wrong

Before the second Test, there was intense debate over resting Bumrah, especially as India were trailing in the series. Critics questioned the decision. But in Leeds, Bumrah's absence didn’t hurt India. On a flat pitch favoring batters, India’s bowlers still shined.

Bumrah had impressed earlier with a five-wicket haul in the first innings. Yet, India stuck to their plan and responded with their biggest overseas Test win by run margin—a huge 336-run victory.

Gill and Akash Steal the Show in Second Test

Gill dominated the batting charts, scoring over 400 runs in the match. Meanwhile, Akash Deep picked up 10 wickets, helping India clinch a massive win. The team silenced critics, and discussions about team selection faded for the moment.

But ahead of the third Test, selection debates have resurfaced, especially with Bumrah set to return.

Lord’s Pitch and Bowling Dilemma

The upcoming match will be played at Lord’s, where early pitch visuals suggest conditions may favor fast bowlers. But experts warn that the pitch might change by Thursday’s toss.

England head coach Brendon McCullum has openly said he wants a pitch with “more pace, more bounce, little bit of sideways movement.”

India’s fast bowling unit has shown depth. Mohammed Siraj and Akash Deep impressed at Edgbaston, while Prasidh Krishna made a stronger showing in the second innings of the second Test. However, he may make way for Bumrah’s return.

Kuldeep Yadav’s Position Remains Uncertain

Left-arm spinner Kuldeep Yadav has not played a single game in this tour. Despite being a good wicket-taking option, he may again sit out if the pitch supports pace over spin.

Batting Line-up May Remain Unchanged

India dropped B Sai Sudharsan in the second Test and are expected to retain the current batting order. Karun Nair had starts in both innings but failed to convert them into big scores. Still, he may be given another opportunity.

Nitish Reddy, who replaced Shardul Thakur in Birmingham, failed to impress with either bat or ball. The team may consider bringing Thakur back into the lineup.

India’s Likely XI for the 3rd Test

Yashasvi Jaiswal, KL Rahul, Karun Nair, Shubman Gill (captain), Rishabh Pant (wicketkeeper), Ravindra Jadeja, Washington Sundar, Shardul Thakur / Nitish Reddy / Arshdeep Singh, Akash Deep, Mohammed Siraj, Jasprit Bumrah

Ganguly Praises Shubman Gill’s Stunning Start, Warns Tougher Tests Await

July 9, 2025, 12:19 pm

Shubman Gill has made a remarkable entry as India’s Test captain, scoring heavily and leading with confidence. However, former captain Sourav Ganguly, while appreciating the young cricketer’s achievements, warned that bigger challenges lie ahead.

Speaking to reporters during his 53rd birthday celebration at Eden Gardens, Ganguly said, “This is the best I've seen him bat and I'm not surprised.”

Gill’s numbers speak for themselves. In just two Tests as captain, he has scored 585 runs at an average of 146.25, including three centuries, one of them a double hundred.

Records Tumble in Birmingham

India defeated England by 336 runs at Edgbaston, leveling the five-match series 1-1. Gill played a key role with scores of 269 and 161, setting a new record for the highest match total by an Indian batter.

He now sits just 18 runs behind Rahul Dravid’s record of 602 runs in a single Test series in England, set during the 2002 tour. With three more matches to go, Gill has a strong chance of breaking that mark.

Bradman’s Record in Sight

Gill’s incredible start has put him within striking distance of one of cricket’s oldest records. Australian legend Don Bradman scored 810 runs in the 1936–37 Ashes as captain. Gill needs 225 more runs to surpass that total and make history.

Still, Ganguly cautioned against overconfidence. “He has just become captain, it's a honeymoon period. But there would be more pressure with time. The pressure will build in the next three Tests,” he noted.

India's Young Talent Continues to Shine

With senior players like Rohit Sharma, Virat Kohli, and R. Ashwin missing from the squad, India’s younger stars have stepped up. Ganguly praised this new wave of talent and said Indian cricket has always produced great players.

"There is so much talent in Indian cricket. In every generation you will find players," Ganguly said. "After the great Gavaskar, Kapil Dev, Tendulkar, Dravid, Kumble came and then Kohli, now Gill, Jaiswal, Akash Deep, Mukesh, Siraj... just see the abundance of talent. In every generation, whenever there's a void, they will come and fill it. I've always said that.”

Series Still Wide Open

Despite India’s dominant performance in Birmingham, Ganguly stressed that the team must stay focused. “It's just one-all. There's still a lot to play for with three matches to go,” he said.

He added that India needs to restart from scratch in the next match. “India played well, and have been playing well. But again, you have to start from scratch in the next match (at Lord's),” he reminded.

Nasser Hussain on Jasprit Bumrah: India’s Benchwarmer Becomes Lord’s Trump Card

July 8, 2025, 8:34 pm

Ewen England captain Nasser Hussain may be impressed by the way the Indian team performed without Jasprit Bumrah in Edgbaston, and now the ace pacer will return to action fresh for the Lord's Test. The selectors and the team management have already decided that Bumrah, who took a fifer at Leeds, will play just three Tests in the Anderson-Tendulkar Trophy. Shubman Gill and Gautam Gambhir chose to rest for the Edgbaston match although there was a 7-day interval between the first two matches.

Edgbaston Rest Decision Faces Backlash, Then Applause

The decision to rest Bumrah came under intense criticism from fans and experts alike on Day 1, with most questioning the timing. Mohammed Siraj and Akash Deep, however, came out in great style, filling the gap in the pace spearhead's absence. Their exemplary performance not only shut the critics but also justified the team management's move. With India winning comprehensively, the decision to manage Bumrah's workload turned out to be a masterstroke in the end.

Nasser: Jasprit Bumrah is India’s Trump Card for Lord’s

Hussain claimed that India will go into the Lord's Test with the ace card in Bumrah, who will be itching to get his name on the Honours Board. "You feel like India have manoeuvred it well. People were critical of them leaving Jasprit Bumrah out and how they were going to take 20 wickets without Bumrah - well they have done that on a very flat pitch at Edgbaston. Now they have their trump card coming in on a ground (Lord's) that he has bowled well at before and a ground at which he wants to get on the Honours Board after two weeks of rest," Hussain said on Sky Sports' podcast.

Hussain: Tough Decisions Await Stokes with Archer, Atkinson Back

The ex-English captain also highlighted that the Lord's encounter will be a great challenge for Ben Stokes to select the perfect bowling attack with the return of Gus Atkinson and Jofra Archer into the team. "England have got to come in with either tired bowlers or, if they leave their tired bowlers out, they have got to come in with two bowlers who haven't played recently in Gus Atkinson or haven't played a Test match in four years in Jofra Archer. Stokes' tiredness comes not only with the on-field but the off-field. That is the thing with leadership of a Test side that you should never underestimate. That is why Shubman Gill, with all the questions about Bumrah for Edgbaston, everything would have ended up at his door," he added.

RCB Pacer Yash Dayal Booked for Rape Over False Marriage Promise

July 8, 2025, 12:24 pm

Yash Dayal, the Royal Challengers Bengaluru (RCB) pacer from Uttar Pradesh, has been booked under Section 69 of the Bharatiya Nyaya Sanhita (BNS) on allegations of rape, fraud, and emotional exploitation. A woman from Ghaziabad filed a police complaint against the 27-year-old cricketer, claiming that he lured her into a relationship by falsely promising marriage.

Woman Alleges 5-Year Relationship and Emotional Abuse

The complaint, submitted via the Uttar Pradesh Chief Minister's online grievance portal on June 21, accuses Dayal of engaging in a five-year-long relationship under false pretences.

“He repeatedly made physical relations with me by falsely promising marriage and introduced me to his family, who assured that I would be their daughter-in-law. I maintained the relationship with complete honesty and dedication,” the woman said.

She alleged emotional, mental, and physical exploitation during their relationship and said that Dayal borrowed money from her over the years.

Section 69 of BNS Treats Deceitful Sexual Acts as Fraud

Under the newly enforced Bharatiya Nyaya Sanhita, Section 69 criminalises sexual acts committed on false promises, treating them as fraudulent exploitation. The section allows for up to 10 years of imprisonment if found guilty.

The woman claimed she possesses substantial evidence — including chat transcripts, screenshots, video calls, and photographs — to support her complaint. According to Indian Express, Yash Dayal has already recorded his statement with the police. However, he and his family have not issued any public comment.

Allegations of Multiple Affairs and Mental Health Struggles

The complainant further alleged that Dayal had relationships with several other women, which contributed to her declining mental health.

“I tried to end my life many times because I couldn’t get out of the mental pain, and he and his family kept giving me false assurances. His relationship with other women caused me deep mental trauma and broke me down,” she said.

Cricketer Yet to Make International Debut Despite IPL Success

Yash Dayal made his IPL debut in 2022 for Gujarat Titans and was a key bowler in RCB’s 2025 title-winning season, grabbing 13 wickets in 15 matches. Known for his skill in the death overs, Dayal received his maiden India call-up in 2024 for the home series against Bangladesh, but has not yet debuted internationally.

Shubman Gill’s Captaincy Debut Sparks Comparisons to Virat Kohli

July 8, 2025, 8:01 am

Shubman Gill made a remarkable debut as India’s Test captain. He led by example with the bat, scoring a century in his first match in Leeds. Then, at Edgbaston, Gill delivered a stunning performance that could shape his legacy. He scored 269 runs in the first innings and followed it with 161 in the second, winning the Player of the Match award and helping India tie the series 1-1 against England.

Karthik Sees Shades of Kohli in Gill

Former India cricketer Dinesh Karthik praised Gill’s confidence and poise. He felt the young skipper reminded him of Virat Kohli, especially in the way he handled the pressure.

On Sky Cricket’s podcast, Karthik shared, “Athers, you spoke about Virat Kohli. I met him a few days ago, and this talk about captaincy came up.” Referring to Kohli’s words, Karthik said, “He said people think, ‘I’m a great Test cricketer. I enjoyed my Test batting, which I did, but the fact is that getting my captaincy was the best thing to happen in my life.’ Why I am saying this is that the same line was used by Shubman Gill.”

Gill Thinks Like a Leader

Karthik pointed out that Gill, like Kohli, has already begun thinking as a captain. He said that Gill isn’t just batting for himself anymore—he’s making decisions for the team’s success.

“Gill said ‘I used to bat differently, but now that I’ve got captaincy, I almost think this is what my team requires, rather than me wanting to do something individually as a batter,’” Karthik revealed. He added, “I said wow, this is something for which the world of cricket has to take notice.”

Skill, Mindset, and Leadership

Karthik, who once captained Gill at Kolkata Knight Riders, said Gill now has all the qualities needed in a great leader. “Here is a man who has the appetite, he’s got the skill, he’s got the technique, but now he’s got the mindset as well. I’m the captain, I’m going to lead from the front, lead off the front foot,” he added.

Focus Turns to Lord’s

Although Gill’s captaincy began with a massive 336-run win at Edgbaston, Karthik believes the journey has just begun. Gill now aims to continue this momentum in the next match at Lord’s, a historic ground where he hopes to leave a lasting mark.

‘I Took Those Wickets for You’: Akash Deep’s Emotional Tribute to His Sister Battling Cancer

July 8, 2025, 7:42 am

Pacer Akash Deep delivered a stellar performance in India’s second Test match against England at Edgbaston. He took 10 wickets, including 6 in the second innings, leading India to a massive 336-run victory that leveled the five-match series at 1-1. After the game, he revealed that he dedicated his match-winning effort to his elder sister, Akhand Jyoti Singh, who is currently undergoing cancer treatment.

A Star on the Field

Akash Deep dominated the second innings by removing Ben Duckett, Joe Root, Ollie Pope, Harry Brook, Jamie Smith, and Brydon Carse. Despite Jasprit Bumrah’s absence, Akash proved his capability and outperformed every other bowler on both sides.

Sister Speaks on the Emotional Tribute

In an interview with Aaj Tak, Akash's sister said, “I had no idea Akash would say something like that,” referring to his public dedication. She added that “maybe we weren’t ready to talk about it publicly,” but acknowledged, “the way he became emotional and said it for me—it’s a big deal.”

She felt proud of her brother, saying, “It shows how much he loves our family and me.” She noted that “given the situation at home, and still performing like that… it’s a huge thing.” She also said, “I’m the one he is closest to.”

Video Calls and Brotherly Support

Akash Deep stayed connected with his sister even after the match. She shared, “After the match ended, we spoke twice over video call, and again at 5 AM in the morning.” According to her, he told her, “Don’t worry, the whole country is with us.” She recalled him saying, “I couldn’t hold it in anymore. I had been trying to, but yesterday I just couldn’t stop myself.”

She praised his dedication to family, stating, “Such a brother is rare.” She also explained, “He helps us a lot and doesn’t do anything without talking to us.” Since their father and elder brother passed away, she said, “He is the one now managing the whole household.”

Visits During the IPL

During the 2025 IPL season, while playing for Lucknow Super Giants, Akash Deep kept visiting his sister in the hospital. She said, “When the IPL was going on… I was admitted for cancer treatment. Even then, he would come to meet me either before or after the matches.”

Akash played six IPL games that season and took three wickets.

A Strong Family Bond

His sister said, “During my cancer treatment, he was the one who motivated me the most.” She used to assure him that her husband was there for her, but Akash would say, “Everything I have is for my sisters and my family.” She shared that they are “three brothers and three sisters—one of them has passed away—and Akash is the youngest.”

She further added, “Before and after every match, he makes sure to call home on video.” He recently told her, “I did all this for you and for the country. I took those wickets for you.”

ICC Names Sanjog Gupta as New CEO, Effective July 7, 2025

July 8, 2025, 12:37 am

The International Cricket Council (ICC) has named Sanjog Gupta as its new Chief Executive Officer. He will assume office on July 7, 2025, and be the seventh person to serve in the role.

Sanjoy Gupta Succeeds Geoff Allardice in ICC

Gupta, whose past experience has been as Head of Sports at Disney Star, takes over from Geoff Allardice, who declared his intention to resign this January. Allardice joined the ICC in 2012 as General Manager Cricket following his stint as Cricket Operations Manager at Cricket Australia. He was appointed acting CEO in March 2021 and officially appointed to the position in November that year.

Gupta Looks Ahead to Cricket’s Expanding Future

“It is a privilege to have this opportunity, especially at a time when cricket is poised for unprecedented growth,” said Gupta. “These are exciting times for the sport as marquee events grow in stature, commercial avenues widen and opportunities such as the women’s game scale in popularity.”

Jay Shah Welcomes Strategic Vision in ICC

Commenting on the appointment, ICC chairman Jay Shah said, “Sanjog brings extensive experience in sports strategy and commercialisation, which will be invaluable for the ICC. His deep understanding of the global sports as well as the M&E landscape... will prove essential in our ambition to grow the game.” Gupta assumes office at a time of significant happenings in global cricket, such as the game being added to the Los Angeles 2028 Olympics and enhanced technological integration throughout the game.

Kohli, Anushka Spotted at Wimbledon as Novak Djokovic Shines Yet Again

July 7, 2025, 11:32 pm

Virat Kohli is present in London; therefore, it comes as no surprise that he chose to go to Wimbledon 2025. The Indian cricketing star batter, who retired from Tests this year, was also present at the Men's Round of 16 match between Wimbledon finalist Novak Djokovic and Australia's Alex de Minaur. Last year's Wimbledon finalist Djokovic didn't fail as he won the match despite losing the first round 1-6.

Test Retirement of Kohli Shocks Fans Before England Series

The world was waiting for Virat Kohli to join the tour of the UK for the five-match Indian-England series. But he shocked the world by deciding to retire from the longest version of the game just a few days prior to the announcement of the squad. Kohli, who captured his first Indian Premier League (IPL) title in June 2025 with Royal Challengers Bengaluru (RCB), went to London following the tournament to pass time with his family.

Rare Instagram Updates and Praise for Shubman Gill

Virat Kohli's Instagram stories are few and far between, but we are relieved that he has begun posting updates about where he is. On Saturday, he had posted a story for India Test captain Shubman Gill, who was the toast of the town, thanks to his 430-run haul in the Edgbaston Test against England. Only two days after, India's most successful Test captain was sitting at the Centre Court, viewing the proceedings between Djokovic and de Minaur. Kohli watched the game with wife Anushka Sharma as the couple were seen in the stands, their best-dressed in formals.

Kohli Hails Djokovic’s Performance

"What a match. It was business as usual for the gladiator. @djokernole," Kohli wrote on Instagram Stories.

Great victory for India at Edgbaston. Fearless and kept pushing England to the wall. Brilliantly led by Shubhman with the bat and in the field and impactful performances from everyone. Special mention to Siraj and Akash for the way they bowled on this pitch. 👏🇮🇳 @ShubmanGill…
— Virat Kohli (@imVkohli) July 6, 2025

Talking of the game between Djokovic and de Minaur, the former took the competition 1-6, 6-4, 6-4, 6-4. For the first time ever in his career, Djokovic lost the opening set at Wimbledon by a score of 6-1. Joe Root, Roger Federer, and James Anderson were also present at the Round of 16 game.

Kohli Congratulates Team India After Edgbaston Win

After India's emphatic 336-run win against England at Edgbaston, Virat Kohli took to X (formerly Twitter) to congratulate the team on a fantastic achievement. He wrote, “Great victory for India at Edgbaston. Fearless and kept pushing England to the wall. Brilliantly led by Shubhman with the bat and in the field, and impactful performances from everyone. Special mention to Siraj and Akash for the way they bowled on this pitch.”

Focus Shifts to ODIs as Virat Retires From Tests and T20Is

Kohli has now retired from Tests and T20Is as well. He will only play the 50-over game from now on, where he is the leading run-scorer of all time with most centuries. His comeback to Team India jerseys has been postponed following the deferment of India's tour to Bangladesh. He will now be spotted in the ODI series against Australia in October when India travel Down Under. The right-handed batsman brought an end to his Test career having played 123 Tests. He had made 9230 runs at an average of 46.85 with 30 centuries and 31 half-centuries.

Wiaan Mulder Joins Elite Club: 367 and the Highest Test Scores of All Time

July 7, 2025, 10:58 pm

South Africa's Test side witnessed history as 27-year-old Wiaan Mulder broke the national batting record and came close to the world mark before choosing to declare the innings on the second day of the second Test against Zimbabwe at Queens Sports Club, Bulawayo on Monday.

Wiaan Mulder Declares at 367, Surpassing Amla’s Record

Wiaan Mulder was 367 not out when he declared at the lunch break against South Africa on 626 for five. Mulder, who is 27 years old, surpassed the previous highest South African personal score of 311 not out recorded by Hashim Amla against England at The Oval in London in 2012. He proceeded to achieve the fifth-highest Test score in history and fell 33 runs short of Brian Lara's record 400 not out for the West Indies against England in St John's, Antigua, during the 2003/04 series.

Top Individual Scores in Test Cricket History

Here's a list of batters with highest individual scores in the history of Test cricket

Brian Lara – 400* – 582 balls – England – 2004
Matthew Hayden – 380 – 437 balls – Zimbabwe – 2003
Brian Lara – 375 – 538 balls – England – 1994
Mahela Jayawardene – 374 – 572 balls – South Africa – 2006
Wiaan Mulder - 367* - 334 balls - Zimbabwe - 2025
Garry Sobers – 365* – Not recorded – Pakistan – 1958

Quickfire Triple Century and Leadership Debut for Wiaan Mulder

Returning on 264 not out, Mulder was the second South African triple centurion, scoring the milestone off 297 deliveries – the second quickest behind India's Virender Sehwag, who reached 278 deliveries against South Africa in Chennai in 2007/08.

Back-to-Back Boundaries Seal National Milestone

Mulder, leading South Africa for the first time, tied Amla's record before surpassing it with back-to-back boundaries from fast bowler Blessing Muzarabani. Mulder was confronted with 334 deliveries and scored 49 fours and four sixes off a growing despondent and largely toothless Zimbabwe bowling line-up.

Stokes Blames Pitch as India Crush England by 336 Runs at Edgbaston

July 7, 2025, 1:42 pm

India defeated England by a massive 336 runs in the second Test at Edgbaston. This win helped India level the five-match series 1-1. Earlier, England had taken the lead after winning the first Test.

From the beginning, India looked in control. Their batters scored freely, and their bowlers applied constant pressure. As a result, England never got a chance to recover. India outplayed them in every department.

Stokes blames the pitch after the loss

After the defeat, England captain Ben Stokes suggested that the pitch favored India. He said it behaved more like a subcontinent track as the match progressed.

“To be honest, it's probably ended up being more of a subcontinent pitch as it's got deeper and deeper into the game. You know, there certainly a little bit in it to start off with, and I think we exposed that very, very well early on,” Stokes told BBC Test Match Special.

He further explained, “But yeah, then just as it sort of got deeper and deeper, it just, yeah, it became a real tough slog for us and obviously, with the Indian attack and the conditions that they' used to, they were used to and used some of how to expose those conditions, just sort of a little bit better than that can happen sometimes.”

Fans criticize Stokes for his remarks

Soon after Stokes made the comment, fans reacted sharply on social media. Many accused him of making excuses. Some even called him a “crybaby” for blaming the pitch instead of admitting England’s poor performance.

https://twitter.com/zainubrazvi/status/1942032578459881983 https://twitter.com/Pravir21/status/1941979316289524166

Akash Deep and Siraj lead India’s pace attack

Meanwhile, Indian pacers Akash Deep and Mohammed Siraj stepped up in the absence of Jasprit Bumrah. Their fiery spells were key to India’s historic win at Edgbaston.

Akash Deep was outstanding. He took 6 wickets for 99 runs in the second innings. Earlier, he had taken 4 wickets in the first. With match figures of 10 for 187, he now holds the record for the best bowling by an Indian in a Test match in England. He dismissed Joe Root and Jamie Smith on Day 5, sealing India’s win.

At the same time, Siraj delivered a brilliant performance. He took 6 for 70 in England’s first innings. His early breakthroughs gave India full control of the game.

Jamie Smith stands tall for England

Despite the defeat, Jamie Smith stood out for England. In the first innings, he scored an unbeaten 184. In the second, he added 88 more runs. However, his efforts went in vain as the rest of the English lineup collapsed.

Stokes admits India outskilled them

In the end, Stokes acknowledged India’s superiority. He said his team got outplayed and accepted the result. “But it's nothing to be too disheartened about. We can take being outskilled, and we've certainly been outskilled this week,” he said.

Sachin Applauds Shubman Gill’s First Test Win as Captain

July 7, 2025, 12:41 pm

India ended its long wait for a win at Edgbaston with a massive 336-run victory over England in the second Test. With this, India leveled the five-match series 1-1 and recorded its biggest overseas Test win by runs.

Akash Deep Destroys England's Batting

India set England a record target of 608 runs. In response, England collapsed for 271 just before Tea on Day 5. Akash Deep led the attack with a stunning 6/99 in the second innings. Earlier, he took 4 wickets in the first, finishing the match with 10 for 187.

The 28-year-old got his chance only because Jasprit Bumrah was rested. But he made the most of it. He dismissed key top-order batters and later removed Jamie Smith, who threatened with 88. Shubman Gill caught the final dismissal, ending the game he had led from the front.

Shubman Gill Shines as Captain and Batter

Gill gave a batting masterclass. He scored 269 runs in the first innings and 161 in the second, making a total of 430 runs—one of the highest ever by a visiting captain in England. As captain, Gill impressed with his smart bowling rotations. On the final day, after a rain delay, he used Akash Deep, Siraj, and the spinners with precision.

Legends Applaud India’s Dominance

Cricket great Sachin Tendulkar praised the team and Gill, posting, "A Shublime innings from the man of the moment! Congratulations, @ShubmanGill, on powering India to a brilliant Test victory! @RishabhPant17, @klrahul, and @imjadeja batted very well, especially in the 2nd innings.

https://twitter.com/sachin_rt/status/1941904600182997214

India’s approach was to take England out of this game and force them to play differently, making sure that there would only be 1 winner.
What impressed me most about the bowlers was the length they bowled. Needless to say, Akash Deep was the standout bowler, and in my opinion, he bowled the ball of the series to Joe Root. P.S.: Enjoyed the catch taken by Mohammad “Jonty” Siraj."

Ganguly and Laxman Join the Praise

Former captain Sourav Ganguly also praised the team on X, “What a performance from Shubman Gill and his team… with the bat and now with the ball.. Akash Deep and Siraj just brilliant. Indian attack looking far superior than the English attack… Akash Deep and Siraj are workhorses. India win without Bumrah… Can’t be better result with the fantastic Gill in charge. What a fantastic batting effort..”

https://twitter.com/SGanguly99/status/1941895479731867815

Meanwhile, VVS Laxman added, “Well done, Team India on an exceptional victory! It was amazing to see the team's fighting spirit and resilience. Congratulations Shubman on an outstanding match with the bat and for leading the team with such poise. A great start to your captaincy. Also great effort from Siraj and Akash Deep. Wishing you all the best for your future matches. #ENGvIND”

https://twitter.com/VVSLaxman281/status/1941900283073949837

Breaking the Edgbaston Curse

This win was special. India had played eight Tests at Edgbaston before—and lost seven. In 2022, England chased 378 at the same ground to defeat India. But this time, there was no comeback for Ben Stokes and his team. India controlled the match from the start and never let go.

Next Stop: Lord’s with Confidence

India now heads to Lord’s for the third Test, full of confidence. Bumrah is likely to return. However, this match proved that even without him, India’s young stars like Akash Deep and Gill are ready. Their performances highlight the strength of India’s bench and offer hope for the future.

Black Day for Dhoni? Shubman Gill Breaks the Curse, Starts a New Era

July 7, 2025, 12:38 pm

It took 58 years and nine attempts, but India have finally won a Test at Edgbaston on Sunday, Shubman Gill and his team rewrote history, defeating England in the 2nd Test to level the series 1-1. This wasn’t just a win—it was a turning point for Indian cricket in England. Leading from the front, Shubman Gill scored a double century and a hundred in one of the most dominant batting performances by an Indian captain in recent times.

India Dominate on England’s Stronghold

Gill's brilliance wasn’t a solo show it was Mohammed Siraj and Akaash Deep backed it up with five-wicket hauls each, as England crumbled on a surface they’ve long dominated. The bowling, the batting, the energy—this was India like never before at Edgbaston. A ground that once haunted Indian teams is now a proud part of their legacy.

Gill Achieves What Dhoni and Sachin Couldn’t

Here’s the headline everyone’s talking about—Shubman Gill has done something even MS Dhoni and Sachin Tendulkar couldn’t. Neither managed a Test win at Edgbaston during their careers. But Gill did, for many fans, this felt like the official passing of the torch.

A "Black Day" for Dhoni England Legacy?

Some even called it a “Black Day” for Dhoni’s England legacy—not out of disrespect, but to mark the shift. A new generation has arrived, and they’re not just playing—they’re making history. This victory wasn’t about breaking a streak it was about redefining leadership, hunger, and purpose.

The Gill Era Has Officially Begun

Gill has stepped up not only as a batsman but as a captain. His composure, decisions, and hunger to win have set the tone for what many now call the Gill Era. On the other side, Siraj continues to evolve into India’s most reliable fast bowler. Together, this team is not here to match the past. They’re here to surpass it. Edgbaston, once India’s nightmare, is now a symbol of change. Gill’s team didn’t just win a Test—they changed the narrative, delivered what Dhoni and others couldn’t, and gave Indian fans a moment they’ll never forget. History has been made; the Gill era has begun.

Virat Kohli Reacts to India’s Edgbaston Win, Praises Gill and Bowlers

July 7, 2025, 8:47 am

Virat Kohli may have retired from Test cricket, but his presence continues to hover over the India vs England series. In just two days, he posted two tweets that immediately got everyone’s attention.

His first post came on Day 4 and featured only Shubman Gill. It was short and refreshing. Until then, Kohli had completely disappeared from the spotlight. After appearing at Royal Challengers Bengaluru’s controversial victory parade, he went silent on social media—unlike captain Rohit Sharma, who remained active. Despite major moments in the series—five centuries at Leeds, a five-wicket haul by Jasprit Bumrah, and Gill’s double hundred at Edgbaston—Kohli said nothing.

Then came Saturday, and with it, a clear message that he was still watching. Though he no longer plays Test cricket, fans still say he is “omnipresent.”

Kohli's Tweet After India’s Big Win Sounds Familiar

Kohli’s second tweet came after India defeated England by 336 runs at Edgbaston. This time, the post sounded like something a legendary retired player—perhaps Sachin Tendulkar or VVS Laxman—would share. Still, the post marked his return to cricket conversations.

In his tweet, Kohli wrote, “Great victory for India at Edgbaston. Fearless and kept pushing England to the wall. Brilliantly led by Shubman with the bat and in the field, and impactful performances from everyone. Special mention to Siraj and Akash for the way they bowled on this pitch.”

This post got former England batter Jonathan Trott thinking. He wondered if Kohli’s words hinted at how much he missed the team environment. Trott told Sony Sports Network, “Coming back to Virat Kohli’s tweet, no wonder he misses that dressing room feeling. I sometimes wonder how quickly that feeling comes back after you give up the game.”

Trott also joked about Kohli’s location, saying, “Doesn’t he live in St. John’s Wood or nearby? Can he not be persuaded to come back?”

When someone pointed out that India’s No. 4 spot might be locked up thanks to Gill’s outstanding performances in the Anderson-Tendulkar Trophy, Trott smiled and said, “I’m sure he would have liked No. 5 or 3.”

Fans Wonder: Will Kohli Return to Test Cricket?

Many fans believe that Kohli might take back his retirement. Some even claim they “know” he will. But realistically, it seems unlikely.

Kohli officially retired from Test cricket on May 12 at the age of 36. His decision came after much thought. Still, fans joke that he “missed 900 runs and 3 easy centuries” by not playing in England, where Indian batters are scoring with ease.

However, Kohli’s recent form doesn’t support a return. In his last nine Test innings in Australia, he got out the same way each time—caught outside the off stump. There was no visible improvement. While he remains one of the all-time greats, time affects every player. As the article notes, “Father Time spares no one. It catches up to everybody. Even if your name is Virat Kohli.”

A Glorious Career Comes Full Circle

If media reports are correct, Kohli has fully stepped away from red-ball cricket. His focus now seems to be on his family—he has a four-year-old daughter and a one-year-old son. After giving everything to Indian cricket, Kohli has nothing left to prove. His career includes two World Cups, two Champions Trophy titles, and now an IPL trophy. As the article puts it, “There’s no need to accelerate when the gears are jammed.”

But It's Not Goodbye Yet

Even though his Test career is likely over, Kohli isn’t done with international cricket. He will continue playing ODIs. Although his return, originally expected in August, may be delayed, fans can expect to see him in the blue jersey again. He is set to play when India tours Australia later this year for a three-match ODI series.

Shubman Gill Praises Akash Deep After Historic Win at Edgbaston

July 7, 2025, 8:03 am

India’s captain Shubman Gill praised fast bowler Akash Deep for his brilliant performance that helped India crush England by 336 runs in the second Test at Edgbaston, Birmingham. This win not only leveled the five-match series 1-1 but also marked India's first-ever Test victory at this historic venue.

At the post-match press conference, Gill highlighted Akash Deep’s match-turning spell on Day 4. He said, “Yesterday, I think, getting through the top order is never easy.” He also pointed out that Akash Deep’s key dismissals of Ben Duckett and Joe Root gave the team belief. According to Gill, “The spell of Akash Deep, how he got those two wickets, kind of gave the confidence to everyone that we can win this Test match.”

Gill further explained that Akash Deep’s accuracy and control on the final day made a big difference. He stated, “When he came in this morning with the ball hitting the cracks, yes, the ball was seaming, the odd ball seaming, that's what really instilled the confidence in all of the players that, yes, we can do it.”

Akash Deep Breaks Historic Record in England

Akash Deep finished with outstanding match figures of 10 wickets for 187 runs (4/88 in the first innings and 6/99 in the second). With this, he broke Chetan Sharma’s long-standing record of 10/188 for the best bowling performance by an Indian in a Test match on English soil.

Gill Explains Strategic Choice of Washington Sundar

India also surprised many by picking Washington Sundar over the more attacking Kuldeep Yadav. This decision sparked debate before the match. However, Gill defended the move and shared the team’s thinking. He said, “It is very tempting when you have a bowler like Kuldeep. One of the reasons why I wanted to play Washington was because he gives us batting depth.”

Gill emphasized Sundar’s importance with the bat in the first innings. He noted, “In the first innings, I think the partnership between me and Washington, if it wasn't for that partnership, then our lead would have been 70-80-90 runs, which is psychologically very different from 180.”

Washington Sundar not only scored a crucial 42 runs in the first innings but also got the big wicket of Ben Stokes in the second. This underlined his value as an all-rounder. Gill explained that the team chose a finger spinner for better control on a slow, turning pitch. He said, “Even on the 5th day, the ball was not moving that much from the middle, it was just moving through the roughness.”

Gill added that “we thought that maybe if our first batting comes, then maybe on a 5th day wicket, the finger spinner will give us more control if the ball is moving from the wicket.” He also mentioned that “on such wickets, sometimes more than fast bowling, the spin gives you more control.”

Team Will Reassess Strategy for Lord’s Test

Looking ahead, Gill said the team is open to changing the bowling attack depending on pitch conditions at Lord’s. He stated, “So that was our mindset, but now we will see what kind of wicket they are giving at Lord's.”

How Did Bobby Jenks Die? Ex-White Sox Pitcher’s Health Explained

July 6, 2025, 12:41 pm

Ex-Chicago White Sox closer Bobby Jenks has passed away at 44 after battling Stage 4 adenocarcinoma, which is stomach cancer. Jenks, a two-time All-Star who assisted the White Sox in winning the 2005 World Series, initially publicly disclosed his diagnosis in February 2025 in an interview with MLB.com. He was receiving treatment at a hospital in Portugal at the time, where he had relocated to be near his wife's relatives. Jenks already had significant health issues prior to the discovery of his cancer. In December 2011, he underwent back surgery to have bone spurs removed, but the operation went horribly wrong when Dr. Kirkham Wood of Massachusetts General Hospital did not finish the surgery and left Jenks with a serrated edge of bone in his spine. This error resulted in spinal fluid leakage and developed into a serious infection that spread to his brain stem, almost taking his life.

Former Chicago White Sox All-Star pitcher and 2005 World Series Champion Bobby Jenks passed away yesterday, July 4, in Sintra, Portugal, where he had been battling adenocarcinoma, a form of stomach cancer. He was 44 years old. pic.twitter.com/KDb3I0KL66
— Chicago White Sox (@whitesox) July 5, 2025

Only two weeks afterward, Jenks was in for emergency surgery and was bedridden for three months. The ordeal effectively ruined his 2012 season, and the Boston Red Sox ultimately released him. In 2015, Jenks sued the hospital and Dr. Wood, learning that during his procedure, the surgeon was also operating on a paralyzed patient. Jenks resolved the case in 2019 for $5.1 million, declaring that neither patient was properly cared for and that 'his surgery was rushed'. Even more surgeries later, Jenks required spinal fusion surgery, closing forever any baseball return.

Career Highlights and Coaching Path

Jenks pitched seven seasons in the majors, six of those for the White Sox. He was an All-Star in 2006 and 2007, had consecutive 40-save seasons, and accounted for 86 saves in his last three seasons in Chicago. In 2007, he stunned the baseball world by retiring 47 straight batters, tying a Major League record. Jenks finished out his playing career with the Boston Red Sox in 2011. After his stint on the pitching mound, Jenks went on to coach. In May 2021, he was appointed the Grand Junction Rockies' pitching coach and promoted to manager in the following year, taking them to the league championship and earning Manager of the Year accolades. He subsequently worked as pitching coach for the Princeton WhistlePigs in 2023 before assuming managerial responsibilities with the Windy City ThunderBolts the same year.

Family and Last Days

A father of six children, Jenks moved to Portugal with his wife, Eleni, in October 2024 so that he could be close to her family. He was soon after diagnosed with deep vein thrombosis in his right leg, which developed into several blood clots in his lungs. His health started deteriorating in early 2025, and tests revealed a tumor in his chest. Further scans showed that the cancer had also invaded his stomach lining, bones, lower back, and hips.

Ravindra Jadeja Shares Light Moment with Umpire Gaffaney During Tense Test Match

July 6, 2025, 11:58 am

India’s star all-rounder Ravindra Jadeja added a bit of humour to a tense day of Test cricket at Edgbaston during the fourth day of the ongoing India vs England match. Known for his lively presence on the field, Jadeja was caught on camera having a fun exchange with on-field umpire Chris Gaffaney.

As the New Zealand umpire bent down to adjust the bails, Jadeja walked up to him and said something that made them both laugh. In a playful gesture, Jadeja gently poked Gaffaney, and both could be seen smiling. Their light-hearted chat brought a brief moment of joy in the otherwise intense game.

Stump microphones picked up Jadeja saying, “Huh! I'm cheating?” Though the exact context wasn’t clear, it was obvious that he said it jokingly. Gaffaney appeared to be in on the fun too.

https://twitter.com/div_yumm/status/1941538205855334450

Jadeja and Gaffaney Share Another Fun Memory

This isn’t the first time Jadeja and Gaffaney shared a humorous moment in the series. During the Headingley Test earlier, India had requested a ball change when the old one went out of shape. Once the umpires agreed, Jadeja walked over to Gaffaney to celebrate the decision with a smile, which the umpire returned in good spirit.

India Gains Upper Hand After Early Wickets

The fun moment between Jadeja and Gaffaney happened just after Akash Deep bowled out Ben Duckett, leaving England struggling at 30/2 in their fourth innings. This early breakthrough gave India a solid advantage as they aim to level the series.

Jadeja Responds to Stokes' Accusations

Besides light-hearted moments, Jadeja was also at the centre of a minor controversy earlier in the match. England captain Ben Stokes accused him of running on the pitch’s danger area while batting—something that can damage the surface for bowlers. Stokes took the issue to the umpires multiple times.

Jadeja addressed the issue after play. He said, “He feels that I am making it rough for myself. In fact, he was making it rougher by using fast bowlers. I didn’t have to make it rough.” He also added, “He was repeatedly telling the umpire that I was running on the wicket. But that was not my intention. I ran here and there a few times. But that was in his mind.”

Final Day Set for a Thrilling Finish

As the match moves into day five, India finds itself in a strong position. England is chasing a massive target of 608 and is already three wickets down for just 72 runs. Although England has shown resilience before, India will aim to stay sharp and finish the job to level the series in Birmingham.

Virat Kohli Hails Shubman Gill in First Public Message Since Retirement

July 5, 2025, 11:36 pm

Virat Kohli. What have you been doing all this while? Are you even watching Indian cricket at all? All this while, so many individual performances and not a single reaction? How is that possible? Rishabh Pant scored twin hundreds, Yashasvi Jaiswal carried on his resplendent run. The mercurial Jasprit Bumrah lit the Leeds Test ablaze with yet another five-wicket return, and who can possibly forget, Shubman Gill rewrote the history books and records in Edgbaston.

Kohli Resurfaces with a Heartwarming Tribute

All these queries are now a thing of the past. The 'King' of Indian cricket, who broke many hearts with his announcement of retirement from Test cricket has resurfaced on social media, with a post that will truly melt hearts. Kohli, who post IPL trophy win with the Royal Challengers Bengaluru has been miserably off the radar. Except for a couple of videos of him roaming the London streets, there was nothing about him. Yes, he did welcome some of the Indian cricket team members to his home but was out of public sight.

Historic Knock of Shubman Gill Moves Kohli

It took Shubman Gill and some unheard-of batting for even Kohli to open his mouth. He is in stunned awe of Gill's performance in the current Edgbaston Test against England. India's captain, who made 430 runs in aggregate during the second Test of the five-match series in order to propel the visitors to a strong position against England, continued from where he had stopped in the first innings. He had scored 269 runs, which were a record number of runs by an Indian batsman in the UK, and in the second innings, added on to it scoring another 161 runs off 162 deliveries to assist India in setting England a target of 608.

Kohli’s ‘Star Boy’ Praise for Shubman Gill

Kohli shared a picture of Gill on Instagram stories, dubbing the India Test captain "star boy". "Well played, star boy. Rewriting history. Onwards and upwards from here. You deserve all of this," Kohli wrote.

Entering the series against England, the spotlight was squarely on Gill. He had no centuries in SENA nations, and to top that, Gill had the responsibility of taking the side through transition in the absence of Rohit Sharma, Kohli, and Ravichandran Ashwin after their Test retirements. To add more pressure, Gill had the responsibility of batting at a spot which Kohli and Sachin Tendulkar made eternal. Batting at No.4 was massive.

Redemption After Headingley and Dominance at Edgbaston

But Gill made his intentions known from the first match of the series, hitting 147 runs in the first innings of the Headingley Test. But the century was a waste as India lost after England overhauled over 370 runs.

Gill played a loose shot in the first innings of the Headingley Test but learned his lesson as he went long in the Edgbaston match, scoring 269 runs during the first innings and supporting India to reach 587.

The right-handed batsman then prevented India from wasting the benefit of having the lead of 180 runs by scoring 161 runs in the second innings. Due to this endeavor, he now holds the second highest number of runs scored in a single Test, and that is next only to Graham Gooch.

Kohli’s Test Retirement and Career Recap

Virat Kohli had announced his retirement from Tests earlier this year. His statement came days before the England series squad reveal. He put up a long message on Instagram, officially announcing it.

During the England tour squad announcement, chairman of selectors Ajit Agarkar announced that Kohli had called him in April 2025 to let him know of his plans to leave the longest format.

Kohli has played 123 Tests, aggregating 9230 runs at an average of 46.85, including 30 centuries and 31 half-centuries.

India’s Declaration and First Innings Advantage

Now, returning to the Edgbaston Test, India declared their second innings at 427/6, giving England a target of 608. KL Rahul, Ravindra Jadeja and Rishabh Pant too recorded half-centuries for the visitors.

India achieved a lead of 180 runs in the first innings after Mohammed Siraj's six-wicket bag reduced England to 407.

Shubman Gill Becomes Only 2nd Indian to Score 200 and 100 in One Test

July 5, 2025, 10:09 pm

Indian cricket witnessed a historic moment on Saturday as newly-appointed Test captain Shubman Gill etched his name in the record books by becoming only the second Indian after Sunil Gavaskar to score both a double century and a century in the same Test match. The 25-year-old achieved the feat in the second Test against England at Edgbaston, registering a monumental 269 in the first innings followed by a commanding 161 in the second. With this performance, Gill became part of a select band of only nine batsmen in the world to have achieved the rare double hundred and hundred in the same Test. The list reads like a who's who of batting greats like Doug Walters, Lawrence Rowe, Greg Chappell, Graham Gooch, Brian Lara, Kumar Sangakkara, Marnus Labuschagne, and India's very own Sunil Gavaskar, who got 124 and 220 against West Indies in 1971.

A Milestone in Indian Cricket History

Gill's twin masterclasses at Edgbaston weren’t just aesthetically pleasing they were statistically historic. His 269-run effort in the first innings marked the highest score by an Indian captain in Test cricket, surpassing Virat Kohli’s 254* against South Africa in 2019. He also broke the record for the highest individual score by an Indian in England, eclipsing Sunil Gavaskar’s 221 at The Oval in 1979. But it was the second innings that really nailed his position in history. When Gill hit Shoaib Bashir for a six in the 53rd over to go past the 75-run boundary, he became the official Indian with the highest runs in a single Test match overtaking Gavaskar's 344 with a total of 430 runs (269 + 161). Just three other Test cricketers have ever scored more than 400 runs in an individual match.

Dominance in the Second Innings by Shubman Gill

In India's dominant second innings score of 427/6 declared in 83 overs, Shubman Gill was the mainstay with a smooth 161 off 162 balls, inclusive of 13 fours and 8 sixes, at a strike rate of 99.38. It was not an innings about accumulation but dominance as well, as he led from the front and assaulted the England bowlers with measured aggression. Gill's knock was the standout in a dominant batting performance, with assists from KL Rahul (55), Rishabh Pant (65), and Ravindra Jadeja (69*), but it was Gill's genius that gave India the push and confidence going into the final day.

Captaincy Debut with a Bang for Shubman Gill

Shubman Gill was named India's 37th Test captain on May 24, 2025. In his first series as captain, the Punjab batter is making his mark with both performance and composure. His match-winning innings at Edgbaston have not only placed India in a strong position but have also displayed the temperament and hunger one would want from a long-term leader. At only 25, Gill also became the second-youngest Indian captain to have achieved a double century, just behind Mansur Ali Khan Pataudi. He is also now the sixth Indian captain to score a double ton in Test cricket solidifying his legacy further.

We’ve Clawed Back : Brook on Century That Revived England’s Hopes

July 5, 2025, 3:21 pm

England batter Harry Brook bounced back strongly in the second Test against India. He had been dismissed for a golden duck in the second innings of the first Test at Leeds. That early exit pushed him to make a big impact this time.

Brook played a key role on Day 3. England were struggling at 84 for 5, chasing India’s first innings total of 587. But Brook, along with Jamie Smith, turned the game around. He scored a solid 158 runs, while Smith made 184. Together, they added 303 runs for the sixth wicket. Brook said after the match, “I was off the back of a golden duck so I just wanted to get off the mark.”

Motivation After Missed Century

In the previous Test, Brook missed his century by just one run. He got out on 99. That disappointment clearly fueled his hunger. “I was definitely hungry to get a hundred today,” Brook said. “Obviously with the situation of the game, we were behind the eight-ball and to try to get the momentum to swing back in our favour, along with Smudge (Smith), was a good moment.”

India Maintain Control

Although England fought back, India still hold the advantage. They reached 64 for 1 in their second innings. Their overall lead now stands at 244 runs, with two full days left. Brook admitted India were ahead. However, he pointed out how quickly momentum can change in a Test match.

“Hopefully we’ve clawed ourselves back into the game. I just tried to bat as long as I could,” he said. “If I hadn’t got out we wouldn’t be in this situation now, but we saw (at Headingley) last week how quickly it can change.” He added, “India are in the driving seat but hopefully we can put pressure with early wickets and make them crumble.”

Brook Applauds Indian Bowlers

Brook praised India’s disciplined bowling strategy. He described how the bowlers challenged the batters. “The Indians bowled really well with it. They came wide on the crease, attacked the stumps, kept all three modes of dismissal in play, and they made it do just enough to be able to get them wickets at the end there.”

Hope for a Strong Bowling Response

Brook admitted England’s bowlers didn’t perform well late in the day. However, he stayed optimistic about Day 4. “We didn’t get it quite right tonight. Hopefully, we can do that tomorrow morning. There’s plenty of wickets to be had out there.”

Sanju Samson Joins New T20 Team After IPL 2025

July 5, 2025, 1:13 pm

Sanju Samson has officially signed for the Kochi Blue Tigers of the Kerala Premier League (KPL) and is the league's highest-paid player ever. The signing was announced just a month following the end of the IPL 2025 season. Sanju pegged his base price at ₹3 lakh, but Kochi stole the headlines by acquiring him for a whopping ₹26.80 lakh—over half of the ₹50 lakh budget per franchise. This acquisition seals his position as the league's most valuable player in its short history. The second edition of KPL will be held between August 21 and September 6, and India has no T20I games lined up during this period, freeing Sanju's calendar—at least on paper.

Possible Conflict With Duleep Trophy Obligations

Sanju can still miss out on half of the Kerala Premier League if he is picked for the Duleep Trophy, which starts from August 28. In the previous year, he was a part of India D team. His availability would be determined by national selection and the calendar of games.

Big Other Signings in KPL Auction

The KPL auction also witnessed some other prominent players securing great deals. Another Kerala player with IPL background, Vishnu Vinod, was acquired by Aries Kollam for ₹13.8 lakh. Jalaj Saxena, a regular of the domestic league and India A player, was acquired by Alleppey Ripples for ₹12.4 lakh.

CSK Interested in Sanju Samson Trade From RR

Rumors regarding Sanju Samson's IPL future have grown stronger. Though still leading Rajasthan Royals, a Cricbuzz report found that Chennai Super Kings (CSK) are interested in recruiting him into their team—if he becomes available. "Sanju is certainly someone we are looking at. He is an Indian batsman, who is both a keeper and an opener. So if he is on the market, certainly we will be considering the possibility of him being with us," said a CSK official to Cricbuzz. The move would involve a trade, be it before or after the IPL 2026 mini-auction.

Samson's Journey With RR So Far

Sanju started his IPL journey with Rajasthan Royals in 2013 and was a part of the team until 2015. He played briefly elsewhere before RR re-signed him in the 2018 mega-auction. He has been captain of the team since IPL 2021 and has been the core player for the franchise since then. With KPL 2025 in the offing and CSK's interest hanging in the air, Sanju Samson's cricketing schedule and coming team affiliations are red-hot with speculation. His ₹26.80 lakh contract also puts the spotlight strongly on the increasing popularity and commercial muscle of Kerala's T20 league.

Yashasvi Jaiswal Becomes Joint-Fastest Indian to Reach 2,000 Test Runs Milestone

July 4, 2025, 11:55 pm

At Edgbaston on Friday, the red-ball rise of 23-year-old Yashasvi Jaiswal continued as he became the joint-fastest Indian to reach 2,000 Test runs. He achieved the milestone in his 40th innings, equalling the record held by Rahul Dravid and Virender Sehwag.

Yashasvi Jaiswal Follows in Tendulkar’s Footsteps

Jaiswal mentioned the milestone when he scored his 10th run for India's second innings on Day 3 of the second Test against England. He was also the second-youngest Indian to achieve the feat at 23 years and 188 days old - Sachin Tendulkar at 20 years, 330 days remains the only younger player to have achieved this. The milestone arrived on the heels of another elegant knock. In the first innings, Jaiswal had scored a mature 87, displaying maturity beyond his years. He rode out the initial movement, stitched together important partnerships - 72 with Karun Nair and 54 with Shubman Gill and played with thought-out aggression before becoming the victim of Ben Stokes.

Fewest innings to 2,000 Test runs (India)

40 innings – Rahul Dravid, Virender Sehwag, Yashasvi Jaiswal
43 innings – Vijay Hazare, Gautam Gambhir
44 innings – Sunil Gavaskar, Sachin Tendulkar
45 innings – Sourav Ganguly
46 innings – Cheteshwar Pujara

Yashasvi Jaiswal Crosses 4,000 First-Class Runs

Jaiswal also went past 4,000 first-class runs in the knock, achieving the milestone in his 40th match at a rate of almost 59. His First-Class score consists of 14 tons and 14 half-centuries - a testimony to his desire for big scores. Since his Test debut in 2023 with a scintillating 171 in Roseau, the left-handed batsman has blossomed into one of India's most dependable hitters. He was India's top performer in the home series against England at the start of the year, making 712 runs at 89.00 - the second-highest by an Indian in a bilateral Test series.

Siraj and Akash Deep Rock England Despite Record Stand

While that was on, Mohammed Siraj gave 6 for 70, and Akash Deep impressed with 4 for 88, as India dismissed England for 407 in their first innings - leading by 180 runs. England had threatened to reduce the deficit with a record 303-run partnership between Harry Brook (158) and Jamie Smith (184 not out), but early blows by Siraj - including the ones of Joe Root (22) and Ben Stokes (0) - dented England's top order. Akash Deep snapped the key partnership later by removing Brook in the post-tea session. With Jaiswal continuing to churn out milestones and pace attack functioning under pressure, India will carry a lot of positives to the last two days at Edgbaston.

Anushka and Virat Share Dreamy Moments in Romantic Dubai Ad

July 4, 2025, 3:33 pm

Anushka Sharma and Virat Kohli, one of India's most loved celebrity couples, appeared together in a new commercial. Anushka shared the video on Instagram this Friday, giving fans a sneak peek into their dreamy Dubai holiday.

Moments filled with love and adventure

In the three-minute-long ad, Anushka and Virat enjoyed a variety of romantic and fun activities. They lounged by the pool, shared meals, danced, parasailed, and even listened to music by a beach bonfire. Toward the end of the video, the couple witnessed a surprise marriage proposal in Dubai, adding an emotional touch.

At one point, Anushka impressed Virat by speaking in French. Virat responded with a cheesy but cute reply, leaving fans smiling.

While sharing the video, Anushka wrote, "From quaint bonfires to spontaneous moments by the beach, join Virat and I as we share highlights of our most memorable Dubai holiday. A destination we hold very close to our hearts, Dubai never ceases to surprise us and every trip has brought us some of our most cherished moments. Do you have special someone to surprise on your next Dubai holiday? #VisitDubai #Ad."

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Fans Pour in the Love

As expected, the video captured hearts online. Fans flooded the comments with admiration. One person asked, “Why are they sooo perfect???” while another wrote, “Such a romantic couple. And it comes naturally to them.”

Comments like “Epitome of romanticism” and “We live vicariously through you guys” showed how deeply fans connect with them. Someone added, “Anushka Sharma and Virat Kohli raising the standard since 2017.”

Several fans also expressed their wish to see Anushka back on screen. One user commented, “Kab hoga comeback?” referring to her absence from films since Zero in 2018.

Their Journey as a Couple

Virat Kohli and Anushka Sharma got married in a private ceremony in Italy on December 11, 2017. Their first child, Vamika, was born on January 11, 2021. In February 2024, they welcomed their second child, a baby boy named Akaay, though they kept the pregnancy private.

Last month, on Father’s Day, Anushka shared a sweet post for her dad and Virat. The Instagram post included a card made by Vamika that read:
“He looks like my brother. He is funny. He tickles me. I play makeup with him. I love him so much and he loves me this much (arms wide). Vamika.”

What’s Next for Anushka Sharma?

Fans will soon see Anushka in Chakda Xpress, a biopic based on the life of former Indian women’s cricket star Jhulan Goswami. The film will stream on Netflix India. However, the exact release date is yet to be announced.

Her last appearance on the big screen was in Zero (2018), alongside Shah Rukh Khan and Katrina Kaif. The film, directed by Aanand L Rai, was a comedy-drama.

Rising Star Vaibhav Suryavanshi Watches Shubman Gill’s Historic Knock at Edgbaston

July 4, 2025, 9:20 am

Young Indian cricketer Vaibhav Suryavanshi, who impressed fans during the IPL 2025 season and the ongoing U19 ODI series in England, was seen at Edgbaston on Thursday. He watched Shubman Gill play a historic innings live from the stands.

Gill Makes History

Shubman Gill continued his excellent form from the previous day. He scored another hundred on Day 2, becoming the first Indian captain to hit a double century in a Test match in England. Moreover, Gill also became the first Asian captain to score 200 runs in a SENA country (South Africa, England, New Zealand, Australia), beating Tillakaratne Dilshan’s 193 at Lord’s in 2011.

Gill’s achievement also marked just the second time an Indian skipper scored a double century in an overseas Test, the first being Virat Kohli’s 200 in North Sound back in 2016.

Vaibhav Suryavanshi Spotted in the Crowd

Shortly after Gill’s enthusiastic celebration in Birmingham, the camera showed Vaibhav in the audience. The BCCI had arranged for the U19 team to watch the senior team’s performance. Vaibhav had just scored a fiery 86 runs against England U19 the day before, in the third match of the series.

Vaibhav is currently part of India’s U19 squad. He played for Rajasthan Royals in IPL 2025, where he became the youngest male player to score a T20 century. He attended the Edgbaston match along with his U19 teammates, including captain Ayush Mhatre, who had shined during the season for Chennai Super Kings.

Former Cricketers Praise Young Talents

During the broadcast, former England captain Mike Atherton said, "Good to see the under-19 team here. They're playing England in a series this summer."

Dinesh Karthik, who was on commentary with him, added, "The captain, Ayush Mhatre played for the Chennai Super Kings this year. Did really well. We are proud of Vaibhav Suryavanshi, who played for the Rajasthan Royals. And I'm sure a lot of these guys who are part of this team will eventually end up playing for the country and obviously the IPL as well."

Atherton replied, "As Shubman Gill did. He was a World Cup-winning under-19 cricketer. Oh, not captain. Prithvi Shaw was the captain when India won that."

Vaibhav’s Performance in the U19 Series

Vaibhav has been a standout performer in the ongoing series. So far, he has scored 86, 45, and 48 runs in three matches. His aggressive knock of 86 on Thursday nearly broke Rishabh Pant’s nine-year-old U19 record for the fastest 50. Though he missed it by a fraction, his performance helped India take a 2-1 lead in the five-match series, with two games left.

D Gukesh Stuns Magnus Carlsen Again, Beats World No.1 at Grand Chess Tour 2025 in Croatia

July 4, 2025, 2:10 am

World champion D Gukesh has shocked chess legend Magnus Carlsen for the second time. He beat the Norwegian chess grandmaster in the sixth round of Grand Chess Tour SuperUnited Rapid 2025 in Zagreb, Croatia on Thursday. With the win, Gukesh moved to the top individually at the current tournament. Indian grand master tied for the lead at the end of play on Day 1 and he went great guns on the second day too. D Gukesh opened the second day by beating Uzbekistan's Nodirbek Abdusattorov in round four and then beat American grandmaster Fabiano Caruana in round five.

Five Straight Wins for D Gukesh, Including Carlsen Upset

This was followed by his game against Carlsen and D Gukesh won that too with the black pieces. This was the fifth consecutive win for Gukesh in the tournament. Coincidentally, this win followed Carlsen's description of Gukesh as 'one of the weaker players' in the tournament.

Carlsen's Pre-Tournament Comments on Gukesh Resurface

"Gukesh hasn't done anything to indicate that he's going to do well in such a tournament," Carlsen had said in an interview before the tournament. "Gukesh actually played quite well here last time. But it remains to be proven that he's one of the best players in such a format. This is a very, very strong field that we have here. Players like Gukesh and Anish Giri... they have a lot to prove because there aren't a lot of players you can feast on. In the course of 27 rounds, things usually show. I hope for Gukesh's sake that he can play better, but playing him in this tournament I will sort of approach it as I'm playing one of the presumably weaker players in the tournament actually," he had added.

Gukesh Recovers from Early Loss, Dominates Second Day

Beginning the tournament with a defeat to Duda, Gukesh dominated a reckless France's Alireza Firouzja before beating compatriot R Praggnanandhaa to move to four points out of a possible six. Carlsen defeated Wesley So and drew his other two against hometown favorite Ivan Saric and Duda to tie Gukesh on points, as Wesley alone from the others took part in all the decisive games, aside from Gukesh, as he put over his US compatriot Fabiano Caruana and Holland's Anish Giri. In-form Praggnanandhaa had a miserable day at the office on day one as he drew with Firouzja and Uzbekistan's Nodirbek Abdusattorov at the expense of the defeat to Gukesh that proved very costly to him.

Shubman Gill Creates History with 269 in England: All Records Broken

July 3, 2025, 9:18 pm

Shubman Gill wrote his name in the history books by hitting a historic 269-run innings against England in the second Test of the Anderson-Tendulkar Trophy at Birmingham. Not only did the innings turn the match in favor of India, but it also broke multiple batting records at national and international levels. Gill's 269 is now the seventh-highest individual score by an Indian in Test cricket. Among Indian captains, it is the highest ever, surpassing Virat Kohli’s unbeaten 254 against South Africa in 2019. The 24-year-old opener’s innings combined classical strokeplay with gritty determination, anchoring India through a dominant phase in their batting innings.

Among Indian Test Greats

Not many Indian batsmen have crossed the mark of 250 in an individual's innings. Virender Sehwag tops the list with both the top and second-highest Indian scores of 319 against South Africa (Chennai, 2008) and 309 against Pakistan (Multan, 2004). Karun Nair is the second Indian to achieve a triple century, whose unbeaten score of 303* came against England in 2016.

Here’s a look at India’s top 10 Test scores:

Virender Sehwag – 319 vs South Africa (Chennai, 2008)
Virender Sehwag – 309 vs Pakistan (Multan, 2004)
Karun Nair – 303* vs England (Chennai, 2016)
Virender Sehwag – 293 vs Sri Lanka (Mumbai, 2009)
VVS Laxman – 281 vs Australia (Kolkata, 2001)
Rahul Dravid – 270 vs Pakistan (Rawalpindi, 2004)
Shubman Gill – 269 vs England (Birmingham, 2025)
Virat Kohli – 254* vs South Africa (Pune, 2019)
Virender Sehwag – 254 vs Pakistan (Lahore, 2006)
Sachin Tendulkar – 248* vs Bangladesh (Dhaka, 2004)

Record-Breaking Milestones for Shubman Gill

Gill's innings wasn’t just a big number it broke multiple long-standing records:

Highest Test score by an Indian captain in England, surpassing Mohammad Azharuddin’s 179 in 1990.
First Indian captain to score a double century in England.
Second Indian captain to score a double century overseas, after Virat Kohli’s double ton in the West Indies in 2016.
India’s highest individual Test score in England, going past Sunil Gavaskar’s 221 at The Oval in 1979.
Highest Test score by an Indian in non-Asian overseas conditions, bettering Sachin Tendulkar’s 241* at Sydney in 2004.
First Asian captain to score a double century in SENA (South Africa, England, New Zealand, Australia) countries, breaking Tillakaratne Dilshan’s record of 193.

A Statement of Intent by Shubman Gill

In this gargantuan innings, Gill not only put to rest critics who questioned his consistency at red-ball cricket but also emerged as an ideal long-term leader for Indian cricket. His temperament and desire for big scores in challenging overseas conditions have reminded people of legends Rahul Dravid and Virat Kohli. India's dominant performance in the Test was based on the genius of Gill, and the innings is sure to go down as one of the best by an Indian overseas.

Diogo Jota Dies in Crash 10 Days After Wedding; Wife Shared Reel Hours Before | Watch

July 3, 2025, 6:06 pm

Life is unforgiving and unpredictable, and nobody understands this more today than Rute Cardoso, wife of Diogo Jota, whose husband died in a car accident on July 3, ten days after their tearful wedding. Diogo Jota, 28, and his younger brother Andre Silva, 26, were killed in a horrific smash when their Lamborghini went off the A-52 road in northern Spain, spun out of control, and burst into flames. Spanish police later confirmed that a blown tyre during overtaking was most likely responsible for the crash. The accident took place just outside Cernadilla, Zamora, near the Portuguese border.

A Dream Wedding That Ended in Tragedy

On June 22, Rute and Jota exchanged vows in a private wedding ceremony in Porto, Portugal, with their three children and close family in attendance. The pair, who met in high school in 2012 when they were 13, had been a couple for more than a decade. Rute stayed by Jota's side through his football journey, relocating from club to club and nation to nation with him. In his last Instagram post, Jota penned, "A day we will never forget," about their wedding. Rute expressed the same in several posts, where she referred to the wedding as her "dream come true" and wrote "Yes to forever" in one sentimental caption. Jota answered tenderly: "I'm the lucky one."

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Hours before the crash, the couple shared a wedding reel full of sentimental moments, personal pictures, and smiles that now weigh unbearably.

The Crash and Its Consequences

Spanish emergency services quickly reached the scene and confirmed the deaths of the two brothers. They have since sent their bodies to Zamora for autopsy. "The 1-1-2 Castilla y León operations center received several reports of a car accident… and the car was burning," the emergency response report read. Medical and fire services quickly reached the scene but could not rescue the passengers.

A Football Star Remembered

Liverpool Football Club, in which Jota played from 2020, issued a statement, "Liverpool Football Club is saddened by the tragic death of Diogo Jota. Jota netted 65 goals in 182 games for the Reds and claimed the Premier League, FA Cup, and League Cup. He also played for Portugal 49 times, helping the side win the UEFA Nations League twice. Previously, he made a name for himself playing with Paços de Ferreira and Wolverhampton Wanderers. Looking back on his career, Jota himself once spoke, "It is a great success for a little guy who came from Gondomar… It's a moment that I will keep in my heart all my life." While the football world grieves, Ruth Cardoso now has to endure the unthinkable loss of her husband and the father of her three children, just days after they vowed forever.

Team India Shows Strength on Day 1, But Bumrah’s Absence Sparks Team Balance Concerns

July 3, 2025, 8:58 am

Shubman Gill's vital 114 runs at position four anchored India's innings on day one, allowing the team to a respectable 310/5. Even with the good show, the young batsman might not be too pleased, considering larger team issues.

England Exhibits Bowling Improvement

England decided to bowl first under almost ideal batting conditions, mindful of India's good performance at Headingley. The English bowlers showed significant improvement, with Chris Woakes recovering from a poor outing at Headingley, maintaining consistency, and almost achieving more wickets. Pace bowler Brydon Carse bowled at good pace and aggression despite a flat pitch, while captain Ben Stokes skippered acutely and removed the crucial wicket of Yashasvi Jaiswal. Overall, England appeared to be picking up steam, while India appeared to be uncertain.

India's Team Selection Sparks Debate

India's selection of the team caused a stir before the first ball was bowled. The biggest miss was Jasprit Bumrah, who was always going to play only three Tests in the series. But holding him back at this point baffled many, particularly because there was a week's gap between the first and second Test—sufficient time for Bumrah to recover from the previous efforts. With India in need of all the help after their defeat at Headingley, the lack of their world-class fast bowler might prove too expensive. On a surface which provided no help, Bumrah's capability of making breakthroughs might have been priceless.

Mysterious Blend of Players in the Team

India's overall team make-up also seemed to be baffling. Following Headingley, where India neither adequately supported their batting nor bowling resources, the answer was to double down on doing essentially the same thing. Nitish Kumar Reddy and Washington Sundar were brought into the side, adding depth to the tail's batting but potentially diminishing the top order and failing to bolster the bowling attack. This strategy tries to mix batting and bowling but can make the team lack a direction. Whether this risk is worthwhile or not is yet to be seen.

Strong Start but Shaky Foundations for India

India's beginning to this Test was resolute, but the uncertain team selection and the absence of Bumrah can compromise their bid to mount a comeback in the series. It has a lot to go before it can face England effectively, addressing such issues.

Carlos Alcaraz Crushes Tarvet’s Wimbledon Dream as Sabalenka Marches On

July 3, 2025, 1:57 am

Carlos Alcaraz ruined Oliver Tarvet's Wimbledon sojourn as the title holder entered the third round with a 6-1, 6-4, 6-4 victory over the British qualifier on Wednesday following Aryna Sabalenka halted the tide of shock upsets.

Top Seeds Survive Shaky Start at Wimbledon

A record number of seeds fell at the All England Club in the first round, but women's world number one Sabalenka and Alcaraz escaped seismic shocks on Centre Court. Second-seeded Alcaraz took two hours and 17 minutes to see off world number 733 Tarvet, who showed glimpses of his rising talent to thrill the partisan audience.

"First of all I have to give big praise to Oliver. In his second match on the tour, I just loved his game to be honest," Alcaraz said.

"I knew I had to play my best tennis. I was really happy with my performance but big praise to him as well."

A Winning Streak and Wimbledon Ambitions

Alcaraz has won his previous 20 matches after losing to Holger Rune in the Barcelona final in April, a searing run that has seen him win the Rome Masters, the French Open and Queen's Club.

The 22-year-old Spaniard, who fought back from two sets down to beat Jannik Sinner on clay in an epic final at Roland Garros last month, has won 31 of his 34 Tour-level matches on grass.

His last defeat at Wimbledon came against Sinner in the fourth round in 2022.

Having vanquished Novak Djokovic in the past two Wimbledon finals, Alcaraz is looking to join an elite group of Wimbledon icons.

The second-ranked player in the world is dreaming of becoming the fifth Open Era player to achieve three or more consecutive Wimbledon titles after Djokovic, Bjorn Borg, Roger Federer and Pete Sampras.

Tarvet’s Dreams on Hold Amid NCAA Restrictions

Compared to the celebrity status and riches of Alcaraz, the relatively unknown Tarvet is just beginning his professional tennis career and can't even take home all of his Wimbledon winnings.

Being a student of the University of San Diego, the 21-year-old has to remain an amateur and will also have to forfeit most of his earnings.

Though Alcaraz is a five-time Grand Slam title winner, Tarvet was competing in only his second major main draw match following three qualifiers and a first-round victory over Leandro Riedi.

Sabalenka Powers Through to Round Three

Sabalenka had begun the action on Centre Court on Wednesday, out-grinding 48th-ranked Marie Bouzkova 7-6 (7/4), 6-4 in a powerful-hitting match.

The Belarusian, who has endured agony in the finals of the Australian Open and French Open this season, battered a fine 41 winners in the one-hour-and-35-minute match.

It meant she escaped the fate of a number of other top players such as second seed Coco Gauff, third seed Jessica Pegula and fifth seed Zheng Qinwen, who were eliminated in the first round.

Top Players Tumble in Historic Wimbledon Opener

"Honestly it's very sad to see so many top players losing in the first round but you better focus on yourself and stay away from the results," said the three-time Grand Slam winner in her on-court interview. "I hope it's no upsets anymore in this tournament, if you know what I mean!"

Keys, Norrie, and More Shake Up the Draw

Joining Sabalenka in the third round was sixth seed and Australian Open winner Madison Keys, who dispatched Serbia's Olga Danilovic, 6-4, 6-2.

In the first two days alone, eight of the top 10 seeded players from the men's and women's singles draws were knocked out, an Open era Grand Slam record.

13 seeded players lost on the men's side in the first round, a record in the tournament previously held by 11, and equalling the record of the most at a Grand Slam held by the 2004 Australian Open.

Third seeded Alexander Zverev was the top man to go down, losing on Tuesday to France's Arthur Rinderknech.

Raducanu Set to Close the Day

Italian seventh seed Lorenzo Musetti also fell to Nikoloz Basilashvili, while Rune and Daniil Medvedev, both seeded in the top 10, lost on Monday.

American 12th seed Frances Tiafoe was the newest top player to fall to a shock loss, defeated by British world No 61 Cameron Norrie 4-6, 6-4, 6-3, 7-5 in the second round.

Later Wednesday, past US Open champion Emma Raducanu plays 2023 Wimbledon champion Marketa Vondrousova on Centre Court.

Shubman Gill Hits Century at Edgbaston, Joins Kohli and Gavaskar in Elite Captaincy Club

July 2, 2025, 11:22 pm

India Test captain Shubman Gill marked his place in the history books again with a breathtaking unbeaten 114 on Day 1 of the second England Test at Edgbaston. With this century, his seventh overall in Test cricket and second in captaincy, Gill became part of a rare club of Indian legends who have scored hundreds in both their first two tests as captain's something only Vijay Hazare, Sunil Gavaskar, and Virat Kohli had managed before. The 25-year-old completed the follow-up to his 147 in the first Test in Leeds with another masterclass at Birmingham, cementing his credentials as a leader and run-machine in the red-ball game. Gill's century was achieved in challenging conditions after England chose to bowl first on cloudy days. India were 310/5 in 85 overs at the end of Day 1, with Gill and Ravindra Jadeja (41*) together at the crease, having laid a solid platform for the visitors.

A Record-Breaking Streak for Shubman Gill as Test Captain

Gill’s back-to-back centuries as captain have placed him alongside Indian cricket legends. Vijay Hazare struck 164* and 155 in his first two Tests as captain in 1951. Sunil Gavaskar followed suit with scores of 116 and 205 in his early days as skipper. Virat Kohli, the most recent before Gill, smashed 115, 141, and 147 in his first two Tests as leader during India’s 2014-15 Australia tour.

Gill’s knock at Edgbaston was also his first century at the venue, making him only the fifth Indian to score a Test hundred at this iconic ground. He joins the elite company of Sachin Tendulkar, Virat Kohli, Rishabh Pant, and Ravindra Jadeja all of whom have left their mark at Edgbaston in previous tours.

Building the Innings Amid Early Setbacks

India's top order had to weather a fiery English pace attack early on. KL Rahul departed for just 2, while Karun Nair contributed 31 before falling to Brydon Carse. Yashasvi Jaiswal provided early momentum with a fluent 87, but it was Gill who held the innings together with composure and patience.

The Indian skipper took 216 deliveries to get to 114*, showcasing his maturity in handling pressure and grinding out runs. He struck 12 boundaries in a knock that blended elegance with grit.

Rishabh Pant added a quick 25, while Nitish Reddy managed only a single before falling to Chris Woakes. Jadeja joined Gill at 211/5 and the pair steered India safely to stumps.

Shubman Gill Sets Stage for Day 2 Dominance

India will aim to build a massive first-innings total on Day 2 with Gill still unbeaten and looking in sublime form. With support from Jadeja and a deep batting lineup that includes Washington Sundar, the visitors have a strong chance to control the game early.

As captain, Shubman Gill continues to lead from the front, not just with strategies but with bat in hand a sign that Indian cricket’s future is in formidable hands.

Manolo Marquez Quits as India Coach After AIFF Fallout: What Went Wrong?

July 2, 2025, 8:21 pm

Troubled India football national team head coach Manolo Marquez resigned on Wednesday following a "mutual agreement" with the All India Football Federation (AIFF), which was under pressure to rectify accountability for the recent slide of the national team.

AIFF Releases Manolo Marquez Following Committee Meeting

The AIFF Executive Committee, during its meeting, decided to release the 56-year-old Marquez after he had indicated that he wanted to resign notwithstanding a year remaining in his contract "The AIFF and Manolo decided to mutually part ways without any financial implications to any of the two parties. So, he is relieved from being India coach. The AIFF will shortly advertise for the post of head coach," AIFF Deputy Secretary General K Satyanarayana told PTI. The Spaniard took over as head coach in June 2024 on a two-year contract. He performed a dual role last season when he was also the head coach of Indian Super League club FC Goa during the 2024-25 season.

Poor Results and AFC Asian Cup Qualification Struggles

India was defeated 0-1 by lesser-ranked Hong Kong in an away game of the AFC Asian Cup qualifiers on June 10, and that left the nation at risk of failing to qualify for the regional spectacle in 2027, India recorded only a single victory from their past eight games under Marquez's guidance, and that was against Maldives in March. India have thus far played four games this year, of which they have won one, drew one, and lost two. Those poor performances saw the recall of veteran skipper and legendary striker Sunil Chhetri to the fold but that has not helped better the team's fortunes. India's next international game is an away game against Singapore in the third round of Asian Cup qualifiers.

Manolo Marquez Wanted to Resign Before Hong Kong Match

Sources had stated that Marquez, who replaced Croatian Igor Stimac, had told the AIFF of his wish to resign some time ago even prior to the June 10 match against Hong Kong -- but was unable to do so on his own since he required a consensus with the AIFF. Marquez is among the longest serving foreign coaches in Indian football, with several Indian clubs having been managed by him. He has won trophies such as the Super Cup and the ISL Cup. His one-year stint is the shortest among Indian head coaches in a decade Stephen Constantine was India head coach from 2015–2019 before Igor Stimac (2019−2024).

Shubman Gill Reveals Unusual Reason for Dropping Kuldeep Yadav in 2nd Test vs England

July 2, 2025, 5:16 pm

India captain Shubman Gill and head coach Gautam Gambhir surprised many by omitting Kuldeep Yadav from the playing XI for the second Test against England at Edgbaston. The management instead picked Washington Sundar, a spin-bowling all-rounder, prioritising batting depth over spin strength. When asked about the decision, Gill said, "We were tempted to play Kuldeep (Yadav) but decided to add some depth to the batting." Kuldeep’s exclusion came as a disappointment to fans and pundits alike, especially after Ravichandran Ashwin’s absence seemingly opened a slot for a specialist spinner.

Kaif, Fans Call Decision Unfair

Earlier, former Indian cricketer Mohammad Kaif weighed in on the matter, stating that “it would be unfair” if Kuldeep wasn’t selected despite Ashwin’s unavailability. The wrist-spinner had been seen as the logical replacement, but Gambhir's tactical preferences appeared to play a key role. Known for favouring multi-skilled players, Gambhir is said to prefer utility cricketers like Sundar over specialist bowlers. His admiration for Sundar's all-round ability reportedly influenced the final team decision.

Bumrah to Return for Third Test at Lord’s

While India chose to rest Jasprit Bumrah for the second Test in Birmingham as part of workload management, Shubman Gill confirmed that the pace ace will return for the third Test at Lord’s, starting July 10. “Third Test being at Lord's, we think there'll be more in that pitch so we'll use him there,” Gill said at the toss. The Indian team had earlier announced that Bumrah would feature in three of the five Tests in the ongoing series. He had led India’s bowling attack in the first Test at Leeds, where the visitors suffered a five-wicket loss.

Team Eyes Balance Amidst Selection Scrutiny

India’s playing XI decisions, especially in a high-stakes Test series, have sparked debate among fans and experts. The choice to prioritise batting depth over spin variety reflects a cautious approach from the Gill-Gambhir duo, but one that may come under scrutiny if results don’t go their way. As the series progresses, all eyes will be on how the balance between attack and depth plays out—especially with Bumrah’s return and the spin department still under debate.

Why India and England Cricketers Are Wearing Black Armbands in Birmingham Test

July 2, 2025, 4:51 pm

During the second Test of the five-match series between India and England at Edgbaston, Birmingham, players from both sides were seen wearing black armbands as they stood for the national anthems. The gesture was a tribute to former England cricketer Wayne Larkins, who passed away on May 28 at the age of 71.

India Eye Series Equaliser After Leeds Loss

India entered the Birmingham Test aiming to level the series 1-1 after suffering a defeat in the opening Test at Leeds. England, buoyed by their early lead, are targeting a 2-0 advantage in the ongoing series.

Wayne Larkins: A Career Remembered

Wayne Larkins represented England in 13 Test matches and 25 ODIs between 1979 and 1991. In Test cricket, he scored 498 runs, and in ODIs, he amassed 591 runs, including one international century.

While his international career was modest, Larkins earned legendary status in English domestic cricket. Playing for Northamptonshire, he accumulated 27,142 first-class runs in 482 matches, making him a revered figure in county cricket circles.

Playing XIs for 2nd Test at Birmingham

India XI: Yashasvi Jaiswal, KL Rahul, Karun Nair, Shubman Gill (c), Rishabh Pant (wk), Nitish Kumar Reddy, Ravindra Jadeja, Washington Sundar, Akash Deep, Mohammed Siraj, Prasidh Krishna

England XI: Zak Crawley, Ben Duckett, Ollie Pope, Joe Root, Harry Brook, Ben Stokes (c), Jamie Smith (wk), Chris Woakes, Brydon Carse, Josh Tongue, Shoaib Bashir

Both teams are expected to put up a fierce contest at Edgbaston, but the moment of solidarity before play began served as a reminder of the deep respect and camaraderie that runs through the cricketing fraternity.

Kabaddi Player Brijesh Solanki Dies of Rabies in After Rescuing & Being Bitten by Puppy

July 2, 2025, 2:00 pm

In a tragic case in Uttar Pradesh's Bulandshahr, state-level kabaddi player Brijesh Solanki succumbed to rabies on June 28, almost three months after he was bitten by a puppy that he had rescued. The 25-year-old sportsman allegedly shrugged off the bite as an insignificant wound and did not administer the rabies vaccine. Haunting video footage shows Brijesh in his final days, writhing in agony and twisting in pain. He suffers violent convulsions caused by rabies. In one video sequence, he can be heard howling in anguish as the lethal infection consumes his body.

🚨Trigger: human suffering. In March, Brijesh Solanki, a state level Kabbadi player, was rescuing a puppy from a drain when it bit him. He took it lightly and didn't report. Months later, he developed rabies and died. Mexico faced a major rabies crisis in the 70s-80s, with… pic.twitter.com/9fYmU2w09b
— THE SKIN DOCTOR (@theskindoctor13) July 2, 2025

Misdiagnosed as a Kabaddi Injury

His coach, Praveen Kumar, explained how Brijesh had mistaken his symptoms for a typical sports injury. "Brijesh had mistaken the pain in his arm as a normal kabaddi injury. The bite was not serious, and he didn't consider it serious, hence he did not get vaccinated," he said in The Times of India. On June 26, Brijesh Solanki began to have numbness in his limbs during practice. He was initially taken to a district hospital in Bulandshahr. But since his health quickly deteriorated, his family took him to a private hospital in Noida, where doctors detected symptoms similar to rabies.

Family of Brijesh Solanki Accuses of Medical Negligence

Brijesh's brother, Sandeep Kumar, claimed that the sportsman was refused treatment in several government hospitals before finally being admitted to Noida. "All of a sudden, he was water phobic and was developing symptoms of rabies, but we were refused treatment at government hospitals in Khurja, Aligarh, and even Delhi. It was only in Noida that doctors told us that he was probably rabies-infected," he was quoted by TOI. By the time it was already too late. Brijesh succumbed to death on June 28. Brijesh was from Farana village in Bulandshahr. His death has shocked everyone in the village and left them all in despair.

Shubman Gill Says India Likely to Field Extra Spinner in Second Test Against England

July 2, 2025, 12:05 pm

India captain Shubman Gill has revealed the team’s bowling plan for the second Test at Edgbaston. He said India will likely include an extra spinner instead of a fast bowler. According to him, the idea is to take advantage of rough patches on the pitch between the 40th and 60th overs.

Reason for Choosing Two Spinners

Gill explained that the ball becomes softer after 40 overs, which makes it difficult for fast bowlers to maintain pressure. Therefore, India believes a spinner would be more useful in this phase. “I have spoken to some of the players who were part of the 2018-19 series and they said the balls were slightly different in that series,” Gill told PTI.

Conditions Support the Decision

He admitted that teams don’t usually play two spinners in England. However, he said the conditions in Leeds during the last match showed that an extra spinner could help. “Usually we don’t see two spinners in England but given the conditions in Leeds we thought having an extra spinner would have been good. I think on these conditions having a second spinner will be helpful. If the conditions are same, having a second spinner would be good,” he said.

Previous Match Offered a Lesson

India lost the first Test in Leeds by five wickets. Gill believes a second spinner could have changed the outcome. “In the previous match, if we had had an extra spinner in the fourth innings, the game could have been better,” he noted. He explained that the pitch had patches which spinners could have used better. “Whenever Jaddu [Ravindra Jadeja] bhai was bowling, chances were being created,” he added.

Spinners Offer More Control Later

Moreover, Gill pointed out that spinners are better at containing runs when the ball becomes old. “We also feel that it is easier for spinners to contain runs than fast bowlers, especially when the ball gets old. If you don’t take wickets, it becomes very difficult,” he explained.

In addition, he admitted that dropped catches had hurt the team’s performance. “We bowled well but dropped a few catches too. It’s not easy when you are constantly dropping catches,” he said.

Final Call Depends on Pitch

Furthermore, India has not yet finalized which spinner will play. The decision between Kuldeep Yadav and Washington Sundar will depend on pitch conditions. Gill confirmed this during the press conference, echoing what India’s assistant coach said a day earlier.

Bumrah's Inclusion Still Uncertain

Finally, Gill spoke about Jasprit Bumrah during India’s final practice session on July 1. He confirmed that Bumrah is fit and available. However, the team will decide on his inclusion on match day after assessing the pitch and weather.

Corbin Bosch Makes History: Bat-Ball Masterclass Sinks Zimbabwe in Record Win

July 2, 2025, 2:09 am

Corbin Bosch bowled South Africa to a 328-run win over Zimbabwe on the fourth day of the first Test at Queens Sports Club on Tuesday. Bosch followed up a first innings century by taking five for 43 as Zimbabwe were bowled out for 208. Playing in his second Test, Bosch became the fourth South African to score a century and take five wickets in an innings in a Test.

Early Breakthroughs by Corbin Bosch Set the Tone

Bosch, who broke a stubborn opening stand with the last ball of Monday's play, struck with the first delivery on Tuesday when new batsman Nick Welch fended a lifting delivery to short leg.

First innings century-maker Sean Williams went on the attack, hitting five fours in scoring 26 off 18 balls.

But Williams became Bosch's third victim when he got into a tangle trying to play to leg and was caught behind off a top edge.

Zimbabwe’s Collapse Under Pressure

Fellow fast bowler Codi Yusuf replaced Bosch and quickly picked up three wickets as Zimbabwe crashed to 82 for six.

Zimbabwe captain Craig Ervine (49) and Wellington Masakadza (57) delayed South Africa's win by putting on 83 for the sixth wicket before Bosch had Ervine smartly caught at short leg by Tony de Zorzi. Bosch completed his five-wicket haul when he bowled Vincent Masekesa for three.

Masakadza Fights, But South Africa Seals Win

The left-handed Masakadza, with a previous highest Test score of 17, struck nine fours in an attacking innings before he was caught at slip off South African captain, left-arm spinner Keshav Maharaj.

South Africa fielded only four of the players who won the World Test Championship final against Australia at Lord's last month.

Breakout IPL 2025 Season with Mumbai Indians for Corbin Bosch

Although he was limited to three appearances in IPL 2025, Bosch showcased his all-round skills by scoring 47 runs and taking a wicket, in addition to his electrifying presence to guide the Hardik Pandya-led side to qualify for the Playoffs.

Furthermore, before coming to IPL, Corbin also represented the MI franchise in their SA20 team, the MI Cape Town (MICT), and played a key role in their maiden title win earlier this year.

Corbin Bosch has already given a testament to his sheer talent, capable of contributing across every department, and his fine performances in international and franchise cricket will definitely make the MI management keep him in the priority list for retention in IPL 2026.

Consistency Across Formats Impresses Selectors

His ability to bowl in the powerplay and contribute with late-order hitting earned him praise from MI skipper Hardik Pandya, who called Bosch “a complete utility package for any format.” Bosch ended the tournament with 11 wickets in 7 matches and a strike rate of over 160 with the bat, numbers that clearly carried over into his confidence in Test cricket.

Mohammed Shami Ordered to Pay Big: ₹4 Lakh Monthly to Estranged Wife and Child

July 1, 2025, 10:33 pm

The Calcutta high court directed Indian pacer Mohammed Shami to pay ₹4 lakh each month to his estranged wife, Hasin Jahan, and daughter.

Court Breaks Down Monthly Maintenance Allocation

A division bench of Justice Ajoy Kumar Mukherjee passed the directive on a petition filed by Hasin Jahan and ordered Indian cricketer Mohammed Shami to pay ₹1.5 lakh to her wife and ₹2.5 lakh to her daughter monthly.

“In my considered opinion, a sum of Rs. 1,50,000/- per month to the petitioner no.1(wife) and Rs. 2,50,000/- to her daughter would be just fair and reasonable to ensure financial stability for both the petitioners…” the court said in its order on July 1.

Mohammed Shami Free to Pay More for Daughter's Education

The court further added that Shami is also not bound from voluntarily paying educational or other costs in addition to what has been mentioned for her daughter.

Jahan had moved the high court against an order of a district sessions court to Shami in 2023 to pay ₹50,000 to her wife and ₹80,000 to her daughter.

Jahan Sought ₹10 Lakh Total Compensation

She had claimed a compensation of ₹7 lakh per month for herself and ₹3 lakh for her daughter before the court.

Jahan was a model and cheerleader for the Kolkata Knight Riders prior to marriage with Shami in 2014. The couple had their daughter in 2015.

Allegations Against Mohammed Shami Sparked Major Controversy

In 2018, Jahan made allegations of domestic violence, dowry harassment and match-fixing against Shami. Jahan accused the pacer of having received money from a Pakistani lady. Jahan had also accused her husband for stopping payment to her to fund her family's bills.

The complaint led BCCI to suspend the central contract of the pacer. The board went on to clear Shami from match-fixing charges after an inquiry.

‘Still Not Done Yet’: Nathan Lyon Eyes India’s Win Before Retirement

July 1, 2025, 12:47 pm

Australian spin legend Nathan Lyon has confirmed he has no plans to retire from Test cricket anytime soon. The 37-year-old has his eyes set on one big target—winning a Test series in India, something Australia hasn’t achieved since their 2004-05 tour. With 556 wickets from 138 Tests, Lyon is already Australia’s most successful off-spinner.

Lyon Eyes India Series Win Before Retirement

"I've always said I want to win away in India. I want to win away in England,” Lyon told cricket.com.au. "We've got that opportunity in a couple of years' time, but we've also got to take it Test by Test and make sure that we're doing everything here in West Indies right." Against India alone, he’s taken 130 wickets in 32 Tests, yet never tasted an away series victory there. “Another World Test Championship final would be on my cards for sure,” he added, showing he’s not done chasing milestones.

Lyon Hands Over Team Song Role to Carey

While Lyon continues to pursue his cricketing goals, he’s stepped down as the team’s "song-master". It was a role where he led the dressing room in singing "Underneath the Southern Cross" after wins. He passed this torch to wicketkeeper-batter Alex Carey, who led the song after Australia’s recent win over the West Indies. "I've been very honoured to firstly, lead the song, but to have it for 12 years, it's been one of the biggest highlights of my career," Lyon said. "It definitely doesn't mean I'm retiring anytime soon.” Explaining his choice, Lyon said, “I get the opportunity to pass it on to someone who I look at and absolutely love in the way he goes about it on and off the field, and I just feel like Alex is the perfect candidate.” Reflecting on the transition, he added, “I ran my race with it. Now I can sit back and hopefully enjoy a few wins and just relax and take it all in." Australia will play the second Test against the West Indies on Wednesday as Lyon continues his pursuit of unfinished business.

Brett Lee Responds to Neeraj Chopra’s Javelin Praise, ‘Javelin Throw? I’ll Leave That to Neeraj!’

July 1, 2025, 11:29 am

Olympic medalist Neeraj Chopra recently praised former Australian fast bowler Brett Lee, suggesting he could have been a solid javelin thrower. In a chat with JioStar during the Neeraj Chopra Classic 2025, the Tokyo gold medallist and 2024 Paris Olympics silver winner said, “I have heard that Brett Lee was a javelin thrower. I think he could throw the javelin well, especially when he was in his peak years.”

Brett Lee's Humble & Humourous Response

Brett Lee, known for his fiery pace and lethal yorkers, responded with grace and humility on X (formerly Twitter). “I did throw the javelin back in my schooling days, but nowhere near what Neeraj does & continues to do,” he wrote.

😂 I did throw the javelin back at my schooling days, but nowhere near what Neeraj does & continues to do. Very tough on the elbow. I have however admired what this fine athlete can do and wish him well 🔥 🥇 https://t.co/fbbpKzd4bj
— @BrettLee_58 (@BrettLee_58) June 30, 2025

The Aussie quick also revealed why he didn’t pursue javelin as a career. “Very tough on the elbow. I have, however, admired what this fine athlete can do and wish him well,” Lee added, acknowledging the sport’s physical demands.

Brett Lee on Trying Javelin with Bumrah

In a light-hearted turn, Brett Lee shared a fun wish. “I would like to try javelin with Jasprit Bumrah too, and hope he teaches me some bowling skills. While bowling and javelin are both throws, they are very different. I would like to learn from Bumrah,” he said. This shows Brett Lee's love for cricket and field sports overall. Meanwhile, Neeraj himself expressed interest in other throwing sports. When asked if he’s ever tried bowling in cricket, he replied that he’d love to try baseball pitching someday. Brett Lee and Neeraj Chopra are two athletes who have been at the pinnacle of their respective sports. For fans to see them interact is inspiring and shows how they treat their counterparts with the utmost love and respect. Neeraj Chopra, who is at the peak of his career right now, seems to be focused on maintaining his top form.

Wimbledon Halts Fritz vs Perricard Match Due to Curfew After Four Sets

July 1, 2025, 10:35 am

Wimbledon witnessed drama late Monday night when officials suspended the first-round match between fourth seed Taylor Fritz and France’s Giovanni Mpetshi Perricard after four intense sets. Organisers stopped play on Court 1 as they believed the match would not finish before the strict 11 p.m. curfew.

Fritz Fights Back, But Match Stopped

Fritz looked frustrated and visibly upset when officials entered the court close to the deadline. He had just completed a stunning comeback in the fourth set. Earlier, he lost the first two sets to the big-serving Perricard. However, Fritz rallied back strongly. In the fourth set tie-break, he trailed 1-5 but won seven of the next eight points to level the match at two sets each. Just as the deciding fifth set was about to begin, officials halted the match.

The chair umpire informed the crowd, "Ladies and gentlemen, due to the late time of the day, we will not be able to finish the match. Therefore, the match will be suspended until tomorrow. Play is suspended."

The crowd on Court 1 expressed their disappointment. Loud boos echoed around the stadium after the announcement.

Organisers Defend Curfew Rule

Wimbledon has an agreement with Merton Council to stop all play by 11 p.m. each night. However, fans and Fritz felt the suspension came too early. When the match was stopped, there were still about 40 minutes left before the curfew.

Meanwhile, over at Centre Court, officials also stopped the final match of the night. Third seed Alexander Zverev was tied at one set each against Arthur Rinderknech when play was paused at 10:54 p.m.

Perricard Had Early Lead

Perricard dominated the early part of the match. He hit 33 aces and won both opening sets in tight tie-breaks: 7-6 (6), 7-6 (8). However, he failed to earn a single break point throughout the match. Fritz regained control by winning the third set 6-4 and then taking the fourth set 7-6 (6), forcing a decider.

Fritz, who recently won titles in Stuttgart and Eastbourne, is seen as a strong contender for the Wimbledon semifinals. He came into the match in excellent form.

Experts Weigh In on the Suspension

Commentator Todd Woodbridge said, "Well, if I was Taylor Fritz, I'd want to keep going here, try to keep the momentum. It's just gone 10.15pm, the curfew is at 11. If it's a long set there's a chance they might have to come off at 5-5 potentially. Would you want to do that? That's what they're weighing up."

Co-commentator Ronald McIntosh noted that the break might favour Perricard. He said, "But a big decision about to be made here because as we pointed out in commentary, the momentum very much in favour of Taylor Fritz. I'm sure Mpetshi Perricard would love the opportunity to regroup, refuel, rehydrate, rest and to come back tomorrow for what is effectively a one-set shootout."

Carlos Alcaraz Escapes Fognini Scare to Begin Wimbledon Title Defence with Grit

July 1, 2025, 12:17 am

Carlos Alcaraz weathered a big fright in his Wimbledon first round against Italian veteran Fabio Fognini on Monday before prevailing in five sets to start his quest for a third consecutive title at the All England Club. Alcaraz fought to a 7-5, 6-7 (5/7), 7-5, 2-6, 6-1 victory over the 38-year-old Italian in a four-hour, 37-minute first-round duel under hot conditions on Centre Court. It was the first time since Roger Federer edged past Alejandro Falla in 2010 that a defending champion had been pushed to a fifth set in Wimbledon's first round.

Defending Champion Carlos Alcaraz Pushes Through Struggles

Alcaraz brushed aside a patchy performance featuring 62 unforced errors as he dug deep not to fold on the record-breaking hottest opening day at Wimbledon. "First of all, I don't know why it is probably Fabio's last Wimbledon because the level he has shown shows he can still play for three or four more years," Alcaraz said. "Playing on Centre Court for the first match of any tournament is never easy. I've been practising pretty well and playing on grass really well, but Wimbledon is special and different. "I could feel the difference between Wimbledon and the other tournaments. I just tried to play my best but I would say that I could play better."

Decider Dominance Secures Victory for Carlos Alcaraz

The 22-year-old came from behind to take a vital break in the second game of the decider, shouting "vamos" after holding off two break points in the following game. Fognini had presented Alcaraz with much tougher test than anticipated, but world number 138 failed to maintain the tempo as the tireless Spaniard again proved master of the final set. Alcaraz has never lost in a Grand Slam first round in 18 tries.

Eyes on Wimbledon History

Having previously defeated Novak Djokovic in the last two Wimbledon finals, Alcaraz wants to join an exclusive list of Wimbledon legends. He firmly established his clay-court credentials by fighting back from two sets down to beat Jannik Sinner in an epic French Open final earlier this month. Alcaraz is equally dynamic on grass, winning 30 of his 33 Tour-level matches on the surface, with his last defeat at Wimbledon coming against Sinner in the fourth round in 2022. He is bidding to join the exclusive club of five men to win at least three consecutive Wimbledon titles since Bjorn Borg, Pete Sampras, Roger Federer and Djokovic, a seven-time champion. If he accomplishes that goal, Alcaraz would be the second-youngest player in the Open Era to win six Grand Slam men's titles since Borg, who achieved that milestone in 1978.

Next Challenge: Oliver Tarvet

He will play British qualifier Oliver Tarvet in the second round. "He is playing great tennis on grass and if he is in the second round of Wimbledon then he is playing at a great level," Alcaraz said. "I will try to improve the things that didn't work today, such as the return and the forehand. Let's keep enjoying being at Wimbledon as well."

Daniil Medvedev Knocked Out in First Round of Wimbledon by Benjamin Bonzi

June 30, 2025, 8:18 pm

France's Benjamin Bonzi defeated former US Open champion Daniil Medvedev in a first-round upset at Wimbledon on Monday. Medvedev reached the Wimbledon semi-finals in the last two years, but world number 64 Bonzi ended the Russian's quest for another deep run at the All England Club. Bonzi defeated ninth-seeded Medvedev 7-6 (7/2), 3-6, 7-6 (7/3), 6-2 in three hours and seven minutes in hot conditions on Court Two. This was the first time in seven visits to Wimbledon that Medvedev failed to get beyond the first round. Medvedev, a six-time Grand Slam finalist, has had a disastrous year at the majors, losing second round at the Australian Open and first round at the French Open before his Wimbledon disaster.

Major Setback in a Disappointing Season for Daniil Medvedev

The 29-year-old, a winner of the US Open in 2021, beat top-seeded Jannik Sinner in the Wimbledon quarter-finals last year and then fell short against defending champion Carlos Alcaraz in the semis. This season, however, has painted a very different picture for the Russian. With early exits at all three Grand Slam tournaments so far, Medvedev's form and rhythm on the biggest stages have come under serious scrutiny. His lack of consistency has raised questions about whether his 2021 peak can be replicated. The loss also comes as a blow to his chances of improving his ranking or gaining momentum ahead of the US hard-court season. For a player of Medvedev’s calibre, such results are far from expectations.

Bonzi Celebrates Career-Defining Moment

"This is my first top-10 win at a Slam. Obviously, it is always special at this tournament," Bonzi said. "I love this place, so it's very special and Daniil is a great player. He has reached two semi-finals here. "I knew it was a tough match, but sometimes it is better to play this kind of player in the first round. Anything can happen, so I'm very happy with the win."

‘Got It Today’: Smriti Mandhana Shuts Critics with Maiden T20I Ton

June 30, 2025, 2:22 pm

Smriti Mandhana finally hit her long-awaited maiden T20I hundred — and it came with some friendly fire from a teammate. After constantly getting out in the 70s and 80s, it was Radha Yadav who gave Mandhana the final nudge. "Three days back, me and Radha Yadav, we were having a conversation," Mandhana shared. "These girls are really hard on me sometimes. She was telling me, 'It's high time you get a century in T20Is, you keep getting out in the 70s, 80s and you are not doing justice to your talent and all of that stuff.'"

Smriti Mandhana Breaks the 70s-80s Curse After Radha's Push

Mandhana promised Radha she’d try to get it this series — and she did it in the very first game. The moment she reached the milestone, Mandhana made sure Radha knew. "The finger was towards her, that 'see, I got it today,'" she said. The knock made Mandhana only the second Indian woman to score a T20I ton, and the fifth woman globally to have hundreds in all three international formats.

Captaincy Pressure Didn’t Affect Focus

With Harmanpreet Kaur out due to a last-minute fitness issue, Mandhana stepped in as captain — but didn’t let the responsibility change her game. "As a batter, it doesn't change a lot. You don't think that you are captaining and you bat differently," she said. "Whenever you have the bat in hand, you have to do the job for the team regardless of the position you are in." Mandhana also explained they had prepared for Harmanpreet’s absence: "Harman was getting assessed over last night and this morning… I was pretty ready last night but the confirmation came today." India ended up thrashing England by their biggest T20I defeat, thanks to a brilliant bowling show. Making her debut, Shree Charani took four wickets and stunned everyone. "The way the bowlers bowled and executed the plan, it was just amazing," Mandhana said. "Especially Shree… we saw what she could do in the WPL. But today the way she actually bowled was amazing."

Surgeon Who Operated on Rishabh Pant Criticizes Somersaults, Calls Them Risky Yet Perfected

June 30, 2025, 12:17 pm

Dr. Dinshaw Pardiwala, the world-famous Mumbai orthopaedic surgeon who conducted surgery on Indian wicketkeeper-batter Rishabh Pant after his life-threatening car crash in December 2022, has spoken candidly about Pant's recuperation and recent on-field flashy celebrations. Pant suffered serious injuries when his luxury vehicle crashed into a divider near Roorkee. Doctors first treated him in Dehradun before flying him to Kokilaben Dhirubhai Ambani Hospital in Mumbai. There, he underwent a crucial ligament reconstruction surgery on his right knee by Dr. Pardiwala.

Long Road to Recovery and Return to Cricket of Rishabh Pant

The 27-year-old spent over a year out of competitive cricket while undergoing extensive rehabilitation at the National Cricket Academy (NCA). He made a much-awaited comeback to professional cricket in IPL 2024 with Delhi Capitals, and ever since, he has surprised fans and critics alike with his show. Most notably, Rishabh Pant wrote history in a Test match against England at Headingley, becoming the first Indian wicketkeeper to have two centuries in the same game. He highlighted the moment with a dramatic somersault celebration, which he had also performed during an IPL 2025 game for the Lucknow Super Giants.

Surgeon Praises Agility but Criticizes Risky Celebrations

Telling The Telegraph, Dr. Pardiwala referred to the gymnast background of Pant and his excellent flexibility, but highlighted the avoidable risk factor in doing so. "Rishabh was trained as a gymnast – and so while he appears big, he is very flexible, and he has a lot of flexibility," Pardiwala commented. "And that's why he's been performing those somersaults recently. It's a well-practiced and perfected trick – unnecessary though!" He also spoke of Pant's change and maturity after the accident, declaring his survival "extremely lucky" and crediting the near-death experience for his new outlook. "He realises he was extremely lucky to be alive. He's so driven as a cricketer. He's a more mature human being." He further added that "Hemore appreciative of life and everything surrounding it," Pardiwala said."

Rishabh Pant Form Sparks Debate Over Test Legacy

Although rusty in initial matches upon his comeback in IPL 2024, Pant soon found his rhythm again. His consecutive Test centuries have once again sparked discussions regarding his standing among India's all-time greatest Test wicketkeepers. Team India and the fans now expect him to keep turning his form into frequent match-winning performances in the coming months.

Rishabh Pant’s Somersault Celebration Slammed by His Surgeon: ‘Unnecessary, Risky’

June 30, 2025, 2:29 am

Rishabh Pant's doctor Dr Dinshaw Pardiwala, who operated on him after his life-threatening car crash in 2022, labeled the somersault celebration as 'unnecessary'. After his century against England in the initial Test match, Pant executed an amazing summersault that left fans and pundits aghast.

But in an interview with The Telegraph, Dr Pardiwala stated that while Pant has trained as a gynmast and has the training and agility to execute it, the somersault celebration is perhaps not needed.

"It's a perfectly executed and rehearsed move unnecessary though!" he added.

Rishabhi Pant’s First Concern After Accident

When Indian wicketkeeper-batsman Rishabh Pant was admitted to a hospital in Mumbai with serious injuries sustained during a road accident in December 2022, his first question to the on-duty doctor was "will I be able to play again?" related Dr Dinshaw Pardiwala, eminent orthopaedic surgeon, who operated upon the cricketing superstar after the gruesome accident.

The Accident That Nearly Ended Rishabh Pant’s Career

Rishabh Pant, who was driving from Delhi to his hometown Roorkee on December 30, 2022, lost control of his vehicle which skidded into a divider and inflicted critical injuries upon him. The car immediately caught fire, and it was only due to the timely intervention of bystanders that Pant was pulled out in time.

Severe Injuries and Miraculous Survival

He was extracted from the wreckage, and Pardiwala stated, "Rishabh Pant was miraculously alive - enormously lucky." "When he first arrived, he had his right knee dislocated. He had a fracture in his right ankle too, loads of other minor injuries everywhere. He had a lot of skin loss as well, so all his skin at the back of the neck down to his knees was scrapped off in the process of that accident," Pardiwala explained to The Telegraph, describing the vicious effect of the crash on Pant's body.

Deep Dasgupta Sends Blunt Advice to Shubman Gill Before 2nd England Test

June 29, 2025, 9:29 pm

Ex-Indian cricket team wicket-keeper batter Deep Dasgupta recommended two changes in the playing XI for the second Test match against England to the team management. India should have Nitish Kumar Reddy instead of Sai Sudharsan and play Kuldeep Yadav at No. 8, as per Dasgupta. Sudharsan debuted in the first Test match scoring 0 and 30 in the two innings. But Dasgupta feels Nitish will provide an alternative in the second Test match, and if the team management pushes Karun Nair up to No. 3 in the batting order, they can choose to leave out Sudharsan.

Deep Dasgupta Suggests Karun Nair at No. 3

“In general, you don't want to make too many changes after the first game, but you have also got to think this is a very young side. It's a new captain, newish side. So you have got to get the combination right. Karun Nair has got most of his runs at No. 3. Also, he batted for India A against the England Lions at No. 3," the former India wicketkeeper-batter said on Star Sports. “So you might want to look at Karun Nair at No. 3. That opens up a space for someone like Nitish at No. 6, who, if required, can give you a few overs of seam. I will have a chat with Sai Sudharsan and say this is not a reflection of what happened in the first Test, but this is a combination things. So that conversation becomes very, very important, how you put it across to someone like Sai," he added.

Kuldeep Yadav at No. 8 Could Be a Game-Changer

Deep Dasgupta also mentioned that given the fact that Birmingham tends to produce batting-friendly wickets, having Kuldeep at No. 8 can prove to be a game-changer for India. “Looking forward to Birmingham, which is usually a batting-friendly venue, I would love to see Kuldeep there. The advantage of having a top five amongst runs is that you are not too worried about contribution from your No. 8 with the bat," he said.

Ravi Shastri Urges BCCI to Back Shubman Gill as Captain: ‘Avoid Chop and Change, Even If He Fails’

June 29, 2025, 5:01 pm

Former India head coach Ravi Shastri has called on the BCCI to back newly appointed Test captain Shubman Gill for at least three years, even if the team loses the ongoing series against England. Speaking to Wisden, Shastri said the young cricketer has matured and deserves a consistent leadership role to prove himself.

‘Let Him Lead for Three Years’

“He’s matured a lot. The way he handles the media, the way he talks at press conferences, at tosses—he’s matured a lot. Let him be there for three years. Don’t chop and change irrespective of what happens in the series. Stick with him for three years, and I think he will deliver for you,” Shastri said.

Gill’s leadership debut in the first Test was notable for his century, though India eventually lost the match by five wickets after England chased down a 371-run target. The defeat sparked debates over Gill’s captaincy tactics.

High Expectations from Gill’s Batting Prowess

Shastri expressed confidence that Gill could become one of the modern greats of the game. “I’ll be disappointed if Gill doesn’t go places. Languid, lazy elegance, and he’s got a regal element of being regal out there when he’s batting. If he can learn with exposure and adapt to conditions, I think that’s the one name I can see,” he added.

Challenges Ahead at Edgbaston

Gill faces a challenging second Test at Edgbaston, Birmingham—a venue where India has historically struggled, winning just one out of eight matches. To make matters more difficult, Jasprit Bumrah may be rested for workload management, putting more pressure on India’s inexperienced bowling attack and Gill’s strategic acumen.

The young captain will need to adapt his tactics and lead from the front if India hopes to level the series and silence critics questioning his early captaincy credentials.

‘Shut the F**K Up’: Jake Paul Fires Back After Beating Chavez Jr

June 29, 2025, 3:26 pm

Jake Paul just added another big name to his boxing résumé, defeating former world champion Julio Cesar Chavez Jr. by unanimous decision on Saturday night at the Honda Center in Anaheim.

Predicted the win and got the WIN @jakepaul 🤫#PaulChavez pic.twitter.com/cy5sGTnGrr
— DAZN Boxing (@DAZNBoxing) June 29, 2025

Paul wasn’t the crowd favorite. The majority of fans supported 39-year-old Chavez Jr., but they were quickly disappointed. In the early rounds, 28-year-old Paul dominated, while Chavez Jr. struggled to throw or land meaningful punches. The crowd’s frustration grew louder as Chavez Jr. failed to engage, leading to boos from the stands.

Jake Paul Dominated, Chavez Jr. Made Excuses

Paul — who last beat Mike Tyson in a high-profile match — tried to draw Chavez Jr. into action and landed solid shots in the process. But Chavez Jr. spent more time arguing with the referee than fighting, claiming he was hit on the back of the head and below the belt — complaints the official didn’t acknowledge.

Chavez Jr. Rallies Late, But Judges Side with Paul

The energy shifted in the sixth round when Chavez Jr. finally landed clean punches and forced Paul to tie up. He gained some control in the final rounds, as Paul appeared fatigued and took noticeable damage. Still, it wasn’t enough. Chavez Jr., who previously held the WBC middleweight title in 2011, landed just over 60 punches throughout the entire match. The judges scored the bout 99-91, 97-93, and 98-92 in Paul’s favor, improving his record to 12-1.

What ya'll think?!?#PaulChavez pic.twitter.com/3Tw50Zzs2T
— DAZN Boxing (@DAZNBoxing) June 29, 2025

After the fight, Paul had strong words for the hostile crowd. “Shut the f*** up,” he told the booing spectators. He also took a heartfelt moment to send prayers to his former opponent Ben Askren, revealing he and his brother Logan Paul will donate to help cover Askren’s medical expenses as he battles pneumonia. When asked about his next opponent, Paul hinted at big names. “Anthony Joshua, Tank Davis, Tommy Fury… there’s a long list of people who want a piece of me,” he said confidently.

‘We’re Just Good Friends’: Raducanu Clears Air on Carlos Alcaraz

June 29, 2025, 12:52 pm

Emma Raducanu has shut down rumours linking her romantically to Carlos Alcaraz. The buzz grew after the US Open announced the two would pair up for the new mixed doubles format in August.

Before Wimbledon 2025, Raducanu practiced with Alcaraz. When asked if they were working on doubles strategy, she replied, “No, it was fun yesterday. We were both on court with Evian.” She added, “We were just getting some volley practicing ahead of New York. I’m really happy obviously to be playing with him. We had a good time yesterday.”

“We’re Just Good Friends,” Says Raducanu

Later in the press conference, a reporter asked about the dating rumours. Raducanu smiled and responded, “We’re just good friends.” The moderator quickly ended the session, and Raducanu laughed, saying, “Way to wrap up!”

Danielle Collins Teases Raducanu

Former world number seven Danielle Collins reacted to the viral clip. She joked on social media, calling Raducanu a “heartbreaker.” Collins commented, “Brutal!! @emmaraducanu such a heartbreaker.”

Raducanu Recalls How the Friendship Began

Earlier this month, Raducanu explained how her friendship with Alcaraz started. She said, “I’ve known him for years. Actually, Wimbledon 2021 was kind of the first time I started getting to know him.”

She remembered their tournament runs that year. “He was always playing the day before me,” she said. “I would see him win, and then I would have motivation to win and get into that position too.”

She recalled Alcaraz’s big win over Tsitsipas in the third round. She said, “It was his breakout kind of win on a big stage. It was really cool to go through that tournament together.”

Old Bonds Still Matter

Raducanu said they stayed in touch during the US Open and kept their friendship strong. “We have a good relationship still. He’s obviously overtaken me a lot, but it’s nice that we have that from a while ago,” she said.

She spoke about valuing old friendships. “When you become a bit more known or successful, you go back to people you knew when you were young,” she said. “That’s a real genuine connection. It gets very busy, and you meet more people, but the ones you’ve known for a long time mean a lot more.”

‘He’s Had Just Two Bad Games’: R Sridhar Backs Jaiswal After Headingley Drops

June 29, 2025, 11:39 am

Former India fielding coach R Sridhar has spoken in support of Yashasvi Jaiswal, who has faced harsh criticism for his poor fielding during the first Test against England at Headingley, Leeds. Jaiswal had started the match impressively. On his first tour of England, he hit a superb century on Day 1 alongside captain Shubman Gill, helping India reach a strong total of 359/3 by stumps. However, the momentum didn’t last.

Fielding Mistakes Shifted the Game

After a good start with the bat, Jaiswal struggled in the field. He was dismissed cheaply in the second innings and then dropped four catches during the remaining days of the match. One of those drops gave a crucial life to Ben Duckett, who was batting during England’s chase of a 371-run target.

Along with batting collapses and average bowling from others apart from Jasprit Bumrah, India’s fielding errors cost them dearly. England went on to win the match by five wickets and took a 1-0 lead in the five-Test series.

Sridhar Says Conditions Were Tough in Leeds

After India’s loss, R Sridhar defended the young opener. Speaking to Sportstar, he said that tough weather conditions at Headingley played a major role in Jaiswal’s mistakes. “He’s actually an excellent gully fielder. Make no mistake,” Sridhar said.

“He’s had just two bad games — one in Melbourne, one here in Leeds. Otherwise, he’s been exceptional. The catches he took against Bangladesh in Kanpur were outstanding.”

Sridhar also noted that it’s unfair to judge players too harshly from afar. “It’s easy to sit in the commentary box and criticise, but these are challenging conditions, and for many of them, it’s their first experience of this environment,” he added.

Others Also Missed Chances

Though Jaiswal drew the most attention, he wasn’t the only one who dropped catches. On Day 2, even top fielder Ravindra Jadeja missed a catch at backward point, and later, wicketkeeper Rishabh Pant also let a chance go.

Moreover, England’s fielders were not flawless either. Ben Duckett and Harry Brook dropped catches in India’s second innings, giving reprieves to Sai Sudharsan and KL Rahul, who went on to score a century.

Ground Fielding Still a Concern, Says Sridhar

While Sridhar defended the missed catches, he was critical of India’s ground fielding. He felt that was an area players could control more easily. “The standard of ground fielding which is exhibited is not acceptable,” Sridhar stated.

“Unlike catching, ground fielding is something which is totally in your control. You should know which ball to put your body behind, which ball to attack, which ball to play safe.”

India Eyes a Comeback at Edgbaston

India will now look to bounce back in the second Test, which starts on 2 July at Edgbaston, Birmingham. With Shubman Gill leading the side, the team will aim to level the series and regain momentum.

India’s Bowling Attack Under Cloud as 2nd Test Prep Begins Without Pacers

June 28, 2025, 12:26 pm

While India prepared for the second Test against England at Edgbaston, Birmingham, which was to commence on July 2, the no-show by Jasprit Bumrah and Prasidh Krishna for the initial training session left critical doubts about the bowling fitness of the team. This was the first net practice for the team since their five-wicket defeat in Leeds. As per a report in The Times of India, Bumrah is "likely to miss the second Test as part of his workload management." His absence, however, is a huge loss for the Indian team, particularly after the bowling department appeared ineffective in the series opener.

India Struggled to Defend 350 in Leeds

In the Leeds Test, India could not defend a 350-run target on the last day. Although Bumrah remained wicketless in the second innings after bowling 19 overs, he had taken five wickets in England's first innings. England was at 286 for four at a crucial juncture, and even though the game was in the balance, Bumrah was not brought back for another over. He finished with 19-3-57-0 in the last innings. His absence allowed England to recover and settle, with Joe Root scoring an unbeaten half-century and Ben Duckett notching a century, sealing the win for the hosts.

Prasidh’s Status Unclear, Siraj Trains with Bat

Prasidh Krishna also missed the initial practice session, sparking speculation over his fitness and availability for the second Test. With Bumrah’s potential absence and Prasidh under observation, India’s pace attack looks fragile heading into Edgbaston. Mohammed Siraj turned up for training but did not bowl. He instead worked on his batting, spending long hours with batting coach Sitanshu Kotak. In light of India's lower-order batting problem in the first Test, this change of heart appeared deliberate.

Arshdeep Impresses in Nets, Likely to Replace Bumrah

Meanwhile, Arshdeep Singh underwent a tough session with bowling coach Morne Morkel. The duo spent time working on the left-arm pacer's back-foot landing, run-up, and general alignment while bowling — problems they had also worked on during the Leeds Test build-up. Having sat out the first Test, Arshdeep is now seemingly the favourite to replace Bumrah. With seamers having traditionally benefited from conditions at Edgbaston, India's bowling strategy will depend on the return of its pacers and the availability of standbys like Arshdeep.

Vaibhav Suryavanshi’s Blazing Knock Seals Win for India U19

June 28, 2025, 7:49 am

India Under-19 began their five-match Youth ODI series on a high. On Friday, they defeated England by six wickets at the County Ground. 14-year-old Vaibhav Suryavanshi gave India a flying start. He smashed 48 runs off just 19 balls, including five sixes and three fours. His incredible strike rate stood at 252.63.

Alongside him, skipper Ayush Mhatre added valuable support. Together, they built a 71-run opening stand in just 45 balls. Mhatre made 21 off 30 balls, hitting four boundaries. However, AM French dismissed him in the eighth over.

India Makes Light Work of the Chase

Chasing a modest target of 175, India batted aggressively. They reached 178/4 in only 24 overs, winning the match with six wickets in hand.

Meanwhile, Abhigyan Kundu ensured a smooth finish. He stayed unbeaten on 45 off 34 balls, hitting four fours and one six.

England Bowlers Fail to Restrict

On the bowling side, AM French led for England. He claimed 2 wickets for 46 runs in 6 overs. In addition, Jack Home took 1/50 in 5 overs, and Ralphie Albert grabbed 1/25 in 4 overs.

Indian Bowlers Shine Early On

Earlier in the day, England U19 chose to bat first. They were bowled out for 174 runs in 42.2 overs. Rocky Flintoff top-scored with 56 from 90 balls, while Issac Mohammed added 42 off 28.

In reply, Indian bowlers dominated. Kanishk Chouhan stood out, taking 3 wickets for just 20 runs in 10 overs, including one maiden.

Furthermore, Henil Patel (2/41 in 8.2 overs), RS Ambrish (2/24 in 6 overs), and Mohamed Enan (2/37 in 10 overs) picked up two wickets each, breaking England's batting rhythm.

Brief Score

England U19: 174 all out in 42.2 overs (Rocky Flintoff 56, Issac Mohammed 42; Kanishk Chouhan 3/20)
India U19: 178/4 in 24 overs (Vaibhav Suryavanshi 48, Abhigyan Kundu 45*; AM French 2/46)

Jasprit Bumrah Overused? Surprising Stat Settles the Workload Controversy

June 28, 2025, 3:30 am

There have been reports in the last few days that India pacer Jasprit Bumrah might miss the 2nd Test against England, which will begin on July 2 in Birmingham. Bumrah bowled 44 overs in the first game of the series, which India lost despite being in a strong position for the most part of the first four days. Jasprit Bumrah was India's best bowler by a country mile, taking a five-wicket haul in the first innings. Bumrah's potential absence implies that India, who are already down 0-1 in the series, have a crisis on their hands.

Gambhir Confirmed Jasprit Bumrah Would Miss Two Tests

While there have been calls made to include Bumrah, India head coach Gautam Gambhir before the team's departure to England had confirmed that Bumrah will miss two of the five Tests due to a workload issue.

Staggering Workload of Jasprit Bumrah Since 2024

Bumrah has picked up 78 Test wickets in 15 matches since the start of 2024, but there's no denying the fact that Bumrah has been the most overworked bowler in the world.

Most Overs Bowled by Pacers Since 2024

For the uninitiated, Bumrah has bowled 410.4 overs in that time, the highest by any pacer in the world. Second-placed behind him is Australia's Mitchell Starc, who has bowled 362.3. Second on the list of bowlers with the highest number of wickets (54) in the format since last year is England's Gus Atkinson. However, he has bowled just 328 overs. Among Indian bowlers, Mohammed Siraj has also bowled 355.3 overs, having played as many number of matches as Bumrah. Still, he has taken 14 fewer wickets despite bowling 27 overs more than Atkinson.

Most Overs Bowled by Pacers in Tests (Since 2024)

Jasprit Bumrah – 410.4 (78 wickets)
Mitchell Starc – 362.3 (48 wickets)
Pat Cummins – 359.1 (51 wickets)
Mohammed Siraj – 355.3 (41 wickets)
Gus Atkinson – 328 (55 wickets)

Siraj to Lead in Bumrah’s Absence

In the overall tally, only Ravindra Jadeja among Indian bowlers has bowled 400 or more overs (400.1). Siraj's record is slightly worrying, given that he will lead India's bowling effort at Edgbaston if Bumrah misses the game. Siraj's output was far from satisfactory in Headingley, though he was slightly unfortunate with those DRS decisions and dropped chances.

Neeraj Chopra Tops Javelin World Rankings Once More, Arshad Nadeem Falls to Fourth

June 28, 2025, 2:15 am

Tokyo Olympics gold medallist Neeraj Chopra has regained the No. 1 position in the World Rankings, in the latest list that was put out by World Athletics this week. Chopra had slipped out of the top position, which was taken over by Anderson Peters on September 17 last year, after the Grenadian athlete won the Diamond League Final in Brussels.

Neeraj Chopra Leads the Pack Ahead of Peters and Nadeem

Neeraj currently has 1445 points, and Peters has 1431. German superstar Anderson Peters is third with 1407 points, while Pakistan's Arshad Nadeem is fourth with 1370 points.

Strong 2025 Season for Neeraj Chopra Across Global Meets

Neeraj defends his World Championships gold in Tokyo in September. He started his season with an invitational tournament in Potchefstroom, where he won gold with a throw of 84.52m. And then in the season opener of the Diamond League in Doha, he first crossed the 90m mark when he threw 90.23m. Although breaking the 90m barrier, he had to be content with the runner-up position, beaten by Weber. And then in the Janusz Kusocinski Memorial competition in Chorzow, he was second with 84.14m. He eventually beat Weber at the Paris Diamond League, with a first-round throw of 88.16m. He then earned his third victory of the year at the Ostrava Golden Spike with a 88.16m throw. Neeraj will next feature at the first-ever Neeraj Chopra Classic, to be held in Bengaluru on July 5.

Breaking the 90m Barrier: A Personal and National Milestone

Once past the 90m mark, he said to RevSportz, "Many people asked questions. Many even used to say that it won't happen since I've been attempting to break 90m since 2018. I used to reach 88-89 several times, but not 90m. So at last, not mine, but the weight is off the Indians' shoulders. He is also working presently with javelin great Zelezny, chief coach and appointed last year in that position. Neeraj has disclosed that they started working together in February only.

D Gukesh Snubbed by Freestyle Chess CEO: ‘Not Great at Grand Slams, Vegas Absence No Surprise’

June 27, 2025, 11:05 pm

D Gukesh will be missing the next Las Vegas Freestyle Chess Grand Slam, with last Tuesday's official line-up announced. The current world champion gave mediocre performances at the Paris and Weissenhaus Grand Slams.

Strong Showing at Norway Chess 2025 Before Exhaustion Sets In

He recently played at Norway Chess 2025, where he came third behind winner Magnus Carlsen and runner-up Fabiano Caruana. Speaking to TimesofIndia.com, Freestyle Chess CEO and co-founder Jan Henric Buettner opened up on Gukesh's absence from the Las Vegas roster. “He said he’s exhausted and needs rest,” he said.

CEO: ‘We Were Always Expecting Gukesh to Decline’

“His performances have not been that good at any Grand Slam. We were always expecting that he would decline to participate in the next event. “Anyway, he had an invitation (for the Las Vegas leg). So after his not-so-good performance in Paris, he was still up for the task. He said, 'We're gonna come. I will come to Las Vegas. “But then, there was Norway Chess. This exhausted him so much. Even I would be exhausted. He was so exhausted that I got a message. He said he's exhausted and would like to rest. He can't come to Las Vegas. Unfortunately, he needs rest. So, you know, that's understandable,” he further added.

Vidit Gujrathi Replaces Gukesh in Las Vegas Line-Up

Buettner has also confirmed that Vidit Gujrathi has taken the place of Gukesh in the Las Vegas line-up. Gukesh's Norway Chess stint involved him scoring a win against Carlsen in Round 6, in which the Norwegian erred while playing the endgame. The World No. 1 also slammed his table in frustration as Gukesh scored his first classical win vs Carlsen.

Current Live Rankings: Gukesh World No. 5, Eyes India No. 1 Spot

In the live chess rankings, Gukesh is already World No. 5, behind fourth-placed R Praggnanandhaa. Arjun Erigaisi is sixth. Carlsen held the top spot, followed by American GMs Hikaru Nakamura and Fabiano Caruana. Gukesh will be looking to become India No. 1 again very soon.

Cristiano Ronaldo Bags ₹2000+ Cr Annual Deal with Al Nassr, Gets Bonus Worth ₹446 Cr & Ownership Rights

June 27, 2025, 9:30 pm

Cristiano Ronaldo inked a new two-year contract extension with Saudi Pro League club Al Nassr after weeks of rumors about his future. Following the confirmation, the club also shared a teaser clip featuring Ronaldo walking on a beachside and saying, "Al Nassr forever" Cristiano Ronaldo is now already 40-years-old and his Saudi Arabia saga hasn't exactly panned out as planned. Al Nassr has also failed to qualify for AFC Champions Elite this season and the Portugal international had also hinted at a departure.

Cristiano Ronaldo Set to Retire at Al Nassr

But now it seems like he will finish his career at Al Nassr. As per a report from The Sun, Cristiano Ronaldo has also been handed 24.5 million pounds as a signing-on fee, which would rise to 38 million pounds if he stays in the second year of the contract.

Staggering Salary and Bonus Structure Revealed

As per The Sun report, he will also be receiving 178 million pounds annually in salaries, which amounts to 488,000 pounds daily. Cristiano Ronaldo will receive 492 million pounds, which may increase to more than half a billion pounds if he activates his bonuses of 4 million pounds (for the Golden Boot) and 8 million pounds if Al Nassr become champions.

Cristiano Ronaldo Granted Ownership Stake in Al Nassr

The report states that Cristiano Ronaldo has been awarded a 15 percent stake in the club, which amounts to 33 million pounds. Ronaldo signed for Al Nassr in 2022 after departing Manchester United. This made him the world's highest-paid athlete and he has also been at the top for the past three years, as compiled by Forbes. Ronaldo's time with the club was marked by them not winning any big trophies, and they only won the Arab Club Champions Cup in 2023. Al Nassr was in second place in the league during the 2022-23 and 2023-24 seasons, and also third in the last season.

India vs Australia ODI in Sydney Sold Out 4 Months Early Amid Kohli-Rohit Mania

June 27, 2025, 6:42 pm

The buzz surrounding India's white-ball tour of Australia has hit new heights, with tickets for the third ODI at the Sydney Cricket Ground selling out four months in advance. Cricket Australia confirmed that public tickets for the headline Sydney match and the first T20I in Canberra have all sold out, an indication of the ferocity of the India-Australia rivalry and the pull of cricketing greats Virat Kohli and Rohit Sharma.

Limited Rohit and Kohli Appearances Fuel Demand

Given that both Kohli and Rohit are now only playing ODI cricket, fans are taking every opportunity to see them play together. The Sydney ODI, more than any other match, is viewed as a limited and perhaps last such experience to see the two legends playing together in Australia. Cricket Australia's Executive General Manager of Events & Operations, Joel Morrison, acknowledged this feeling, and said: We are excited to witness strong ongoing interest among the Indian diaspora, fueled in no small measure by the expectation of witnessing greats such as Rohit and Kohli in action. The Sydney ODI has all the makings of a blockbuster."

Indian Diaspora Makes Aussie Stadiums Home Grounds

The increasing support among the Indian diaspora has been at the forefront of the ticketing boom. Fan clubs like Bharat Army and Fans India have purchased in the thousands, guaranteeing an electric and vibrant atmosphere. Community groups like Brissy Baniyas and the Indian Community of Gold Coast are also adding to the vibrant fanbase at venues.

More than 90,000 Tickets Sold

The India-Australia tour series gets underway on October 19 in Perth and concludes on November 8 in Brisbane. But the Sydney ODI will be the emotional highlight. With more than 90,000 tickets already sold for all matches so far, the tour is no longer a sporting event—it's being hailed as a possible farewell tour for two of India's greatest cricketing legends. For most people, each innings by Rohit and Kohli in this series is a moment of nostalgia and jubilation, the end of a superlative chapter in Indian cricket.

When Shikhar Dhawan Chose Love Over Cricket—& Rohit Sharma Lost Sleep

June 27, 2025, 11:55 am

Shikhar Dhawan has shared a personal chapter from his early cricketing journey in his newly released autobiography. The former Indian opener detailed a romantic escapade that unfolded during the 2006 India A tour to Australia—a story involving secrecy, distraction, and a young Rohit Sharma as his roommate.

Shikhar Dhawan Sharing Tour Anecdote

While on tour, Dhawan fell for a woman he refers to as Ellen (a pseudonym), and their connection quickly intensified. "She was very beautiful, and suddenly I was in love again! I thought to myself, 'She is the one for me, and I am going to marry her,'" he wrote. What followed was a risky decision; sneaking her into the hotel room he was sharing with teammate Rohit Sharma. Despite a promising start to the tour, Dhawan admitted that his attention started drifting from cricket. "I started with a half-century in a practice game, and my tour was progressing well. After every game, I would go over to meet up with Ellen… and I soon started smuggling her into my hotel room which I was sharing with Rohit Sharma," he recalled. Naturally, Sharma grew irritated. “Now and then, he would complain in Hindi. ‘Will you let me sleep?’” Their secret didn’t stay under wraps for long. One night, Dhawan and Ellen were seen walking hand-in-hand through the hotel lobby. “A senior national selector, who was on tour with us, spotted us… It didn't even occur to me that I should let go of her hand, because to me, we were committing no crime.” But the romance had unintended consequences. “There was a good chance that if I had performed consistently on that Australia tour, I would have made it to the senior Indian side, but my performance kept dipping.”

Stellar Career

Despite the distractions on that tour, Dhawan went on to build a stellar career for India. He represented the country in 34 Tests, 167 ODIs, and 68 T20Is. In ODIs, he scored 6793 runs at an average of 44.11, including 17 centuries. His Test record boasts 2315 runs with 7 centuries to his name. The anecdote adds a humorous, human touch to Dhawan’s career and offers fans a glimpse into the early days of two modern Indian cricket greats.

Freestyle Chess Tour Skips India After Sponsorship Fails to Materialise

June 27, 2025, 11:45 am

The Indian leg of the Freestyle Chess Grand Slam Tour 2025 has officially been cancelled due to a lack of sponsorship. The cancellation, which had been rumoured for several months, has now been confirmed by Jan Henric Buettner, the CEO of Freestyle Chess.

"India will not happen this year," Buettner told Chess.com, ending all speculation about the New Delhi event.

India Leg Was to Be Penultimate Stage

The Delhi stage was supposed to serve as the penultimate event in the six-leg Freestyle Chess Grand Slam Tour. So far, tournaments have successfully taken place in Weissenhaus, Paris, and Karlsruhe. The next stop is Las Vegas, scheduled from July 16 to 20, while the tour is set to conclude in Cape Town between December 5 and 12.

Alternative Event May Replace Cancelled Delhi Leg

Buettner hinted that a substitute event could be introduced for the cancelled India leg.
"We will do something special for the September leg of the tour instead. This will be announced after Las Vegas," he stated.

Buettner to Step Down as Freestyle Chess CEO

The German entrepreneur also confirmed that he will step down from his CEO position at Freestyle Chess on July 1. Thomas Harsch will take over leadership duties. Buettner had previously expressed a desire to transition to a less operational role.
"I hope I get out of it! I want it to be implemented in a perfect way. I am giving everything, so when all my visions in my head are implemented, then I can have a more executive role," Buettner had told Chess.com.

Magnus Carlsen Eyes Lead in Las Vegas

The upcoming Las Vegas tournament will see world No.1 Magnus Carlsen attempt to extend his dominance in the tour. Carlsen currently tops the leaderboard with 65 points.

India’s world champion D Gukesh will miss the Las Vegas event, although no specific reason for his absence has been provided. However, India will still be represented by Arjun Erigaisi, R Praggnanandhaa, and Vidit Gujrathi.

John Cena On WWE Retirement: ‘I’m Just Not As Enthusiastic’

June 27, 2025, 11:07 am

WWE legend John Cena has confirmed that his wrestling career will officially come to an end in December 2025. Speaking on The Late Show with Stephen Colbert, Cena confirmed that his ongoing farewell tour is not a gimmick. “We are already halfway through the farewell tour. It’s been pretty incredible, and I think we are getting now to a point that audiences are understanding that I will be done in December,” he said. “There is no realism with professional wrestling and retirement, but I will absolutely be done by the end of the year.”

‘I’m Just Not As Enthusiastic As I Used To Be,’ Says John Cena

Cena, now 48, admitted that his enthusiasm for the physically demanding sport has faded. “I am 48, and I am just not as enthusiastic as I used to be. The experience has been great because each arena is different. Some audiences like me, some don’t, and some even hate me, but it’s great,” he joked. In another interview on The Good Morning Show, Cena reflected on how his decision to retire stemmed from concerns. Concerns, especially about health and performance were troubling. “It was just a battle with myself of how long I could ignore those red flags until it just became counterproductive. I still look good, and I feel good, but I think it is time for me to step aside and let the young talent step forward.”

Retirement Is Real This Time

Though wrestling retirements are often temporary, Cena appears firm in his resolve. “You think I’m joking, but I will be done,” he emphasized, adding that now fans finally believe him, the atmosphere during his farewell tour has become “electrifying.” John Cena will face CM Punk at Night of Champions on June 28 in Riyadh and Abu Dhabi. The WWE Undisputed Championship match could be one of Cena’s last appearances in the ring. He won the title at WrestleMania 41 and has defended it successfully since.

“We Believe Him”: Rüdiger’s Racial Abuse Sparks FIFA Probe

June 27, 2025, 11:06 am

FIFA opened a disciplinary case against Pachuca defender Gustavo Cabral after Real Madrid’s Antonio Rüdiger accused him of racial abuse during their Club World Cup clash. The incident occurred in the dying minutes of Madrid’s 3-1 win over Pachuca in Charlotte, North Carolina, on June 22, 2025.

Clash in Final Minutes Sparks FIFA Anti-Racism Protocol

“Following an assessment of the match reports, the FIFA disciplinary committee has opened proceedings against Pachuca player Gustavo Cabral in relation to the incident involving him and Real Madrid’s Antonio Rüdiger,” FIFA announced in a statement. As the game entered five minutes of stoppage time, players from both sides were involved in a heated altercation. After order was restored, referee Ramon Abatti could be seen speaking with Rüdiger and then making the “X” gesture with his arms, activating the official anti-racism protocol.

“We Believe Him,” Says Madrid Coach Xabi Alonso

Following the match, Real Madrid’s new head coach Xabi Alonso, came out and seriously addressed the media. During the media interaction, he confirmed that Rüdiger reported the alleged incident to the team. “That’s what Rudiger said, and we believe him,” Alonso said. “It is important to have zero tolerance in these kinds of situations. FIFA now is investigating. That’s all I can say.” Cabral later defended himself. Speaking to The Athletic, he said, “It was a fight, we collided, he said that I hit him with my hand and then there was an argument. The referee made the sign of racism. In Argentina, we say ‘cagon de mierda’ all the time—I told him the same thing.” FIFA is expected to deliver a verdict before Pachuca’s final Group H match against Al Hilal on Thursday in Nashville. However, the outcome of that match won’t affect Pachuca’s standing. The team cannot finish higher than third and won’t advance to the knockout stage.

Bumrah Likely to Miss Second Test as India Manages His Workload

June 27, 2025, 7:53 am

Jasprit Bumrah may sit out the second Test against England, starting July 2 at Edgbaston. According to reports, this is part of a planned workload management strategy.

Bumrah Stands Out Despite Loss

Recently, Bumrah returned to Test cricket after a long back injury. He bowled 24.4 overs in the first innings at Leeds and took five wickets. However, India lost the match by five wickets. The defeat came mainly due to poor fielding and weak bowling support.

Other Pacers Struggle

Meanwhile, Bumrah remained sharp. In contrast, Prasidh Krishna, Mohammed Siraj, and Shardul Thakur lacked control and consistency. Moreover, Bumrah’s efforts were let down by fielders. They dropped three catches off his bowling. One of those was Harry Brook, who survived three chances before scoring 99.

Team Chooses to Be Cautious

Despite the loss, the team wants to protect Bumrah’s fitness. Earlier, head coach Gautam Gambhir confirmed Bumrah wouldn’t play every Test. “If we leave out Bumrah and Siraj, there is not much experience in the line-up but we need to back them as they have got talent,” Gambhir said after the Leeds loss. “This pace attack comprises of one bowler who has played four Tests, another who has played two, and one who hasn’t played a Test.”

Focus Shifts to Third Test

Since the third Test at Lord’s begins only four days after the second, resting Bumrah now seems wise. Still, his absence will leave a gap. Siraj, who had a quiet match in Leeds, may lead the bowling. In addition, India could bring in Arshdeep Singh or add Kuldeep Yadav as a spinner.

Gill Faces Extra Pressure

At the same time, captain Shubman Gill faces questions. Many criticised his bowling changes and field placements. Now, with India trailing 0–1 in the series, the team must regroup quickly. The pressure is on to bounce back in Birmingham.

‘Don’t Rush Jofra Back’: Vaughan Warns Against Test Comeback

June 26, 2025, 2:33 pm

Former England captain Michael Vaughan believes Jofra Archer shouldn’t be rushed back into the Test squad for the second match against India at Edgbaston. Archer, who recently played his first red-ball match in four years, picked up 1/32 in 18 overs for Sussex against Durham. Although selectors hinted he might be available, Vaughan feels the timing isn’t right.

Vaughan Cautions England Against Rushing Archer’s Return

"The good thing is that Jofra is back in the equation — but I’d like to see him play another four-day game," Vaughan said on BBC’s Test Match Special. "He’s not played the longer format for four years, so why, on the back of one game for Sussex against Durham, would you rush him back?" He added that the pressure and intensity of Test cricket far exceed county matches. "Let him play another four-day game. I would go with the same line-up, as long as the bowlers are fine and there are no niggles."

Farbrace Also Urges Patience With Archer

Sussex head coach and former England assistant Paul Farbrace echoed Vaughan’s concerns. Farbrace warned that although Archer looks sharp, the team must handle the pacer with care. "If I was in their (selectors') situation, my honest answer would be that I would save him for the third Test match," Farbrace told The Guardian. "You have to be careful that he’s only bowled 18 overs of red-ball cricket." He continued, "Why change the team? They’ve just won the Test at Headingley. They’ve set themselves up nicely for the series. I would be definitely sticking with Chris Woakes for Edgbaston because he knows the pitch inside out." Farbrace admitted Archer looked in good rhythm and seemed composed, but reiterated caution. "Rather than playing back-to-back games and then straight into a Test match, probably the best scenario would be to not play in our game but be ready for the third Test. But that’s their call," he said. Jofra Archer rose to stardom in 2019 after bowling the World Cup-winning super over and taking 22 wickets in the Ashes. However, injuries—including an elbow problem and a stress fracture in his back—have repeatedly derailed his progress.

Did BCCI Blunder With Bumrah? Aakash Chopra Slams Disclosure

June 26, 2025, 1:36 pm

Former India batter Aakash Chopra has raised serious concerns over the decision to announce Jasprit Bumrah and his limited availability for the ongoing Test series against England. He believes the Indian team management made a mistake by revealing in advance that Bumrah wouldn’t be playing all five Tests.

Aakash Chopra Questions BCCI’s Strategy

Chopra, speaking on his YouTube channel, questioned, “Bumrah said he will play three matches only, and I am thinking whether it was required to publicize it. Why was it not kept a secret? We don't announce our team as well. So why was it necessary to reiterate it repeatedly before the start of the tour that he would play three matches only? Let them guess. You play whichever Tests you wish.” He argued that keeping such key information under wraps would have made it harder for the opposition to plan. According to Chopra, knowing when Bumrah will or won’t play can influence how England prepares the pitches, especially since Bumrah is India’s top fast bowler.

Resting Bumrah Now? Think Twice, Warns Shastri

India lost the first Test at Headingley by five wickets after England chased down a challenging 371-run target. Jasprit was a major force in the first innings with figures of 5/83 but went wicketless in the second innings. Despite his effort, the Indian bowling attack looked blunt in the final stretch. After the match, head coach Gautam Gambhir confirmed that Bumrah would only feature in three Tests, or four if needed. But this didn’t sit well with former India coach Ravi Shastri, who warned the management to reconsider their decision ahead of the second Test at Birmingham starting July 2. "If he (Bumrah) was looking at a rest, you may have to think twice. If you don't have him and then go 2-0 down, it could be an uphill task," Shastri told Sky Sports. With the series heating up, fans and experts alike are questioning whether the decision to be open about Jasprit’s schedule was a wise one.

Baseball Governing Committee Continues to Explore Sport’s Development and Growth Opportunities in the UAE

June 25, 2025, 4:42 pm

The Baseball Governing Committee comprising Dr Tayyab Kamali (committee chairman), Zayed Abbas and Mubashshir Usmani continues to explore the sport’s development and growth opportunities in the United Arab Emirates. Baseball’s governance was placed under the Emirates Cricket Board by the UAE government two years ago. The Baseball Governing Committee has since then actively worked on the development of the sport in the UAE especially at the grassroots level. Baseball Governing Committee Chairman Dr Tayyab Kamali: “The Emirates Cricket Board remains committed to the growth of baseball and will continue to create opportunities for the sport’s promotion by nurturing talent, setting up baseball academies and by staging world-class events across the country. The committee has also explored partnership opportunities with various Baseball entities from around the world, a series of exciting announcements will be made in due course.”

Yashasvi Jaiswal Dances for English Fans After Dropping Four Catches – Watch

June 25, 2025, 12:46 pm

Yashasvi Jaiswal began the Headingley Test on a positive note by scoring a memorable debut century in England, but by Day 5 end, fan mood had sharply turned against him. Although he scored a calm 101 off 159 balls in India's first innings, Jaiswal's fielding performance overshadowed his batting excellence.

India Drops Eight Catches, Jaiswal Misses Four

India's hapless fielding cost them, and the team let go of as many as eight catches over five days. Jasprit Bumrah, who bore the brunt of the bowling, had a five-wicket haul in England's first innings but was clearly irked with the constant mistakes on the field. Four of those drops came off the hands of Jaiswal, adding to India's bowlers' woes and inviting stinging criticism from the commentators and the fans alike.

Jaiswal's Dance Enrages Fans Despite Defeat

https://twitter.com/Da___Engineer/status/1937559585172455718 To add insult to injury, Jaiswal infuriated fans by celebrating with a dance in front of the English spectators during Day 5, even as India approached a heavy defeat. His celebration in mid-field was grating for Indian fans already vexed at his fielding mistakes. While social media hailed Jaiswal initially for his maiden ton, fans soon turned against him after the drops and what was seen as bad sportsmanship by many.

India Suffers Historic Defeat Despite Scoring Five Centuries

India's Headingley excursion culminated in a five-wicket defeat to England, who chased down a record 371. Even as they fired with the bat—with centuries for Rishabh Pant (2), KL Rahul, Shubman Gill, and Jaiswal himself—India made unwanted history. They became the first Test team in history to lose a match even as five players hit centuries. The second lower-order collapse of the match by the team sealed their fate, handing England a 1–0 advantage in the five-Test series.

India Seeks Comeback at Edgbaston

With defeat, India also starts their newest ICC World Test Championship mission on a losing note. With Shubman Gill as captain, the visitors now have a week to recharge and prepare for the second Test, which will be hosted at Edgbaston.

Neeraj Chopra Wins Ostrava Gold with Massive 85.29m Javelin Throw

June 25, 2025, 4:30 am

India's javelin throw phenomenon Neeraj Chopra gave a fine performance to win the coveted Golden Spike meet title in his first appearance at the prestigious World Athletics Continental Tour Gold event. Having just won the Paris Diamond League on June 20, the 27-year-old phenomenon claimed victory in a highly competitive nine-man lineup with a throw of 85.29 m. While this was a bit more modest than his recent achievements, it was another landmark in what has already been an extraordinary season. Douw Smith took silver with 84.12m, coming in at third was Anderson Peters (83.63m).

Comeback After Fitness Struggles Pays Off for Neeraj Chopra

Neeraj, who skipped the last two Golden Spike meets where his mentor, the legend Jan Zelezny, won nine titles because of fitness issues, showed exceptional resilience and consistency. His incredible season includes a career-best 90m-plus throw, finishing second at the Doha Diamond League in May, and winning his first Diamond League title in two years in Paris, solidifying his position as javelin's brightest star.

Third-Round Surge Secures the Title for Neeraj Chopra

Chopra got off to a poor start with a foul on his first effort, but put the Olympic champion under early pressure. He then fought back with a strong second effort, sending the javelin flying to 83.45m, well past the 80m mark and into third place behind South Africa's Smit (84.12m, a PB) and Grenada's Peters (83.63m).

The Indian athlete got into his groove on his third try, producing a meet-leading throw of 85.29m, (his first 85m+ throw), taking the lead. After dropping slightly on his fourth (82.17m) and fifth (81.01m) tries, Neeraj was still unbothered at the top, although he seemed displeased with his marks, specifically flashing a pout after his fourth attempt. His 85.29m throw was the night's best, and it earned him his win.

Rohler and Rivals Fall Short of Neeraj’s Mark

Elsewhere, Rio Olympics champion Rohler started off modestly with a 69.35m before stepping up to a solid 77.78m, but it was not enough to threaten the leaders. Smit and Peters maintained their positions, closing well but not capable of bettering Chopra's third-round effort.

Wimbledon to Honour Andy Murray with Statue on 150th Anniversary

June 25, 2025, 12:04 am

The All England Club have confirmed that Sir Andy Murray will be remembered with a statue at Wimbledon at the 2027 tournament, which will celebrate 150 years of the tournament's starting.

Andy Murray’s Historic Achievements Remembered

Andy Murray became the first British player to win a Grand Slam singles title since Virginia Wade in 1977. He achieved this milestone by defeating Novak Djokovic in a hard-fought five-set final at the 2012 US Open. The following year, he ended Britain's 77-year wait for a home champion at Wimbledon. He became the first British man to lift the Wimbledon trophy since Fred Perry in 1936. In 2016, Murray won his second Wimbledon title. That same year, he also became the first British player to reach World No. 1 in the ATP Rankings.

All England Club Working Closely with Andy Murray on Statue Plans

"We are looking to have a statue of Andy Murray here [at Wimbledon] and we're working closely with him and his team. "The ambition is that we would unveil that at the 150th anniversary of our first championship, which was 1877. He's got to rightly be very involved in that, and he and his team will be," said Debbie Jevans, chair of the All England Club, to the Ainslie Ainslie Performance People podcast.

Plans to Honour Andy Murray Began Years Ago

According to a source, former Wimbledon chief executive Richard Lewis had previously confirmed the club’s intention to honour Murray with a statue. This plan was discussed well before his retirement, once it was clear he would eventually step away from the sport. Murray, a two-time Olympic gold medallist in men’s singles, officially retired after the 2024 Paris Olympics. He concluded his decorated playing career following the Games.

Wimbledon’s Legacy of Commemoration

A bronze sculpture of Fred Perry was installed at Wimbledon in 1984 to mark 50 years after his initial singles title. "Now he's retired, we're very much looking at how we can embrace him, for him to be a part of the club in the long term. We looked at Rafa Nadal having that sort of plaque unveiled to him at Roland Garros, which was all very special. We thought, 'What do we want for Andy? ',” Jevans added.

Rishabh Pant Becomes Second Wicketkeeper to Hit Twin Hundreds in a Test Match

June 23, 2025, 8:23 pm

Rishabh Pant created history at Headingley on Monday, becoming just the second wicketkeeper-batter in Test history to score centuries in both innings of a match. The 27-year-old Indian achieved the rare feat during the first Test against England, following in the footsteps of Zimbabwe’s Andy Flower, who scored 142 and 199* against South Africa in Harare back in 2001.

Highest Match Aggregate by an Indian Wicketkeeper-Batter

Pant’s scores of 134 in the first innings and 118 in the second gave him a match aggregate of 252 runs the highest by an Indian wicketkeeper in a single Test. He broke a 61-year-old record held by Budhi Kunderan, who had amassed 230 runs against England in Chennai in 1964.

Surpasses Dhoni’s Record for Most Test Centuries by an Indian Wicketkeeper

In the first innings, Pant also overtook M.S. Dhoni’s record for the most Test centuries by an Indian wicketkeeper. His 134-run knock was his seventh in Test cricket, moving past Dhoni’s tally of six. The innings was a trademark Pant effort aggressive and fearless featuring 12 boundaries and six towering sixes off just 178 deliveries. Pant continued his outstanding performance in the second innings with a fluent 118 before being out. His counterattacking cricket kept the scoreboard moving as India established a powerful lead. Although he couldn't remain unbeaten, his 118-run innings kept India in a strong position for most of the match.

Rishabh Pant Becomes Seventh Indian with Twin Test Tons

Pant has now joined just seven Indian players in a lifetime's work who have achieved twin centuries in a single Test, and he is in exalted company alongside Sunil Gavaskar, Vijay Hazare, Rahul Dravid, Virat Kohli, Rohit Sharma, and Ajinkya Rahane. He is also only the second wicketkeeper in the history of the game to achieve the distinction, emphasizing its rarity and value.

Rishabh Pant Joins Hall of Test Greats with Twin-Ton Milestone

Having achieved twin centuries at Headingley, Pant is now part of an elite club of cricketers around the world who have hit hundreds in both innings of a Test match a list that includes greats such as Don Bradman, Brian Lara, Ricky Ponting, and Jacques Kallis. It speaks volumes about Pant's exceptional consistency, flexibility, and match-winning ability in the longest game.

Rohit Sharma Shares India Badge; What 23/06/07 Means?

June 23, 2025, 2:38 pm

More than a month since walking away from Test cricket, Rohit Sharma has again posted a nostalgic cricket update, this time one of great appreciation for his extended association with the Indian team. On Instagram, Rohit shared a photo of his helmet with the BCCI logo and the Indian tricolour, captioned 'Forever grateful' and dated 23/06/07, the day he made his India debut. That date June 23, 2007 is significant because it represents the first international game of Rohit's cricketing career, which means that this is his 18th year as an Indian player. Rohit debuted in an ODI against Ireland at age 19. Though he did not receive the chance to bat during that match, it laid the groundwork for one of India's most iconic cricket careers.

Rohit Sharma's Instagram story. 🇮🇳 pic.twitter.com/4Pf7tGBIwy
— Mufaddal Vohra (@mufaddal_vohra) June 23, 2025

Humble Beginnings and a Quiet Start

Rohit's early foray in international cricket was limited. He was dismissed for a mere 8 runs in his second match against South Africa and didn't have another significant chance until September that year. In India's landmark game where Yuvraj Singh smacked six sixes against Stuart Broad, Rohit did not get to bat. But the next day, he impressed with an unbeaten half-century against South Africa, providing a glimpse of his potential. Now, with both his Test and T20I career phases over, Rohit seems all ready to channel his energies solely into the 2027 ODI World Cup, barely more than two years from now.

Two Different Phases of a Brilliant Career

Rohit's career can be best understood in two halves. For the first half decade, from 2007 to 2012, he gave glimpses of brilliance but never quite nailed down his spot. All that changed in 2013 when MS Dhoni sent him in to open the innings in the Champions Trophy. Thereafter, Rohit became one of the most explosive batsmen of the game. His association with Shikhar Dhawan boomed as India's second most successful ODI opening combination after Ganguly and Tendulkar. They were 5,148 runs and had achieved 18 century stands together. Rohit's peak was in the 2019 World Cup when he first player to achieve five hundreds in a tournament edition. In 2019, he was awarded with the Major Dhyan Chand Khel Ratna award.

Leadership and Breaking a Trophy Drought

Rohit was appointed captain of India's ODI and T20I sides in November 2021, soon after Rahul Dravid became the head coach. The beginning was tumultuous, India bowed out early from the Asia Cup and lost badly to England in the 2022 T20 World Cup semifinal. But those losses triggered a change. The team took up a more attacking approach under Rohit's captaincy. In the 2023 World Cup in India, he led the charge at the top, scoring quick runs. India dominated the group stage with 10 consecutive victories but lost the final to Australia. Redemption arrived seven months later. Rohit took India to a T20 World Cup title victory against South Africa, remaining unbeaten in the process. That win put an end to India's lengthy ICC trophy drought. In March, he again took the team to a title the Champions Trophy becoming the sole Indian skipper other than MS Dhoni to have won two ICC tournaments. As Rohit marks 18 years in Indian colors, his own journey from a bashful teenager making his debut in Belfast to one of Indian cricket's most successful captains ever continues to be an inspiring tale of resilience, reinvention, and leadership.

Bumrah Shines in Leeds Test, Reflects on Brook’s Dismissal as “Fate”

June 23, 2025, 10:24 am

Jasprit Bumrah continued his outstanding form in the first Test between India and England at Leeds. He bowled 24.4 overs and picked up five crucial wickets, conceding just 83 runs and delivering five maiden overs. His spells were sharp and consistent, making him the standout bowler of the innings.

Bumrah vs Brook: A Battle of Grit

One of the most exciting contests during the innings was between Bumrah and England batter Harry Brook. Although Prasidh Krishna eventually dismissed Brook for 99, Bumrah admitted the Englishman gave him a tough time.

Speaking to the media after Day 3, Bumrah said, "I think fate had decided on 99 for him, because he got dropped a few times after (the no-ball) as well."

Brook began Day 3 confidently. He smashed Prasidh Krishna for a six in the first over, then followed it up with a beautiful cover drive for four off Bumrah. He looked set to score a century—his second at home and ninth in just 26 Tests. But when he reached 99, he mistimed a pull shot off Krishna, and Shardul Thakur caught him in the deep.

A Lucky Escape on Day 2

Brook had some luck on his side too. At the end of Day 2, he mishit a hook shot off Bumrah and was caught—but the delivery turned out to be a no-ball, saving him from a duck. Later, he was dropped on 46 and 82, with Rishabh Pant missing an edge behind the stumps and Yashasvi Jaiswal failing to hold a tough chance in the slips.

Still, Bumrah gave credit to Brook for his batting approach. He said, “He assessed the conditions well, he fancies his game and plays an aggressive style of cricket. He makes you think he can play an aggressive shot but he can shut up shop as well.” Bumrah also added, “Full credit, he played really well and we’ll try to have better plans in the next innings.”

Match Situation After Day 3

Brook's near-century helped England post 465 runs, a strong reply to India’s first innings score of 471. At Stumps on Day 3, India reached 90/2, leading by 96 runs heading into Day 4.

Sourav Ganguly Open to Coaching Team India in the Future

June 23, 2025, 6:49 am

Former India captain Sourav Ganguly said he is open to coaching the Indian cricket team someday. Speaking to PTI, he clarified that while nothing is confirmed yet, he hasn’t ruled it out. “We’ll see what the future holds. I’m just 50 (53), so let’s see what happens. I’m open to it. We’ll see where it goes,” Ganguly said.

Ganguly’s Role in Indian Cricket So Far

Ganguly served as BCCI president from 2019 to 2022, during a challenging phase for Indian cricket. Notably, Virat Kohli stepped down as captain during this time. Before leading the BCCI, Ganguly also headed the Cricket Association of Bengal (CAB). At present, he holds the position of Chairman of the ICC Cricket Committee.

Ganguly Commends Gambhir’s Coaching

Ganguly praised Gautam Gambhir, who became Team India’s head coach last year, succeeding Rahul Dravid. Although Gambhir began with defeats against Australia and New Zealand, Ganguly noted that things turned around after India’s Champions Trophy victory. “Gautam (Gambhir) is doing a good job. He started off a little slow… but he picked up with the Champions Trophy. This is going to be a big series (vs England),” he stated.

Remarks on Gambhir’s Coaching Style

While Ganguly admitted he hasn’t closely observed Gambhir as a coach, he stressed that Gambhir is both passionate and clear-minded. “He’s very straightforward, he sees things clearly, and he’s very open about what he feels,” Ganguly said.

He also recalled his playing days with Gambhir and appreciated the respect he showed toward senior players. “He was a great guy with a lot of respect for me and the senior players. Even now, I can see he is extremely passionate about his job,” Ganguly added.

Ganguly’s Best Wishes for Gambhir

Ganguly wished Gambhir success in his role and emphasized the importance of learning through early challenges. “He struggled a bit in Australia, but just like everyone else, he’ll learn, he’ll grow, and he’ll become better.”

Juventus Edge Wydad Casablanca as Kenan Yildiz Steals the Spotlight

June 23, 2025, 2:00 am

Kenan Yildiz netted twice and assisted once as Juventus defeated Wydad Casablanca 4-1 in the Club World Cup on Sunday to move closer to a last-16 spot. The Turkish international striker was unfortunate not to be officially credited with Juve's early opening goal that ended up going down as an own goal by Abdelmounaim Boutouil. But there was no shadow of doubt that Yildiz had scored the second with an immense shot from the outside of the box. One in return was made by Thembinkosi Lorch for Wydad before half-time, but Yildiz scored his second of the day on 69 minutes before Dusan Vlahovic's late penalty sealed the win for the Italian team.

Juventus on Brink of Knockout Stage After Back-to-Back Wins

Having already beaten Emirati counterparts Al Ain 5-0 on match day one, Juve have nine goals and the maximum six points after two matches in Group G. Their knockout stage place will be guaranteed if group rivals Manchester City don't lose to Al Ain later on. That leaves Igor Tudor's Juve in a great position with a last group game to play on Thursday against City in Orlando. Moroccan giants Wydad, on the other hand, are out with this loss after a 2-0 defeat to City in their opening game.

Yildiz Stars Again for Juventus at Lincoln Financial Field

Yildiz, the 20-year-old German-born winger, was one of the goal scorers against Al Ain and he starred here in front of 31,975 supporters at Lincoln Financial Field. Juve, who secured fourth position in Serie A in the recently concluded campaign, opted with an unchanged line-up so the likes of Manuel Locatelli and Vlahovic started the game on the bench. Braceful against Al Ain, they did not waste time in slicing and dicing the third-placed team in the Moroccan league.

Juventus Maintains Control with Clinical Finishing

The first goal arrived after six minutes when Khephren Thuram set up Yildiz and his shot found the net via a minimal deflection off Boutouil beating goalkeeper El Mehdi Benabid. It was 2-0 on 16 minutes through a wonderful effort, as Andrea Cambiaso embarked on a sharp run in from the left before playing the ball inside for Yildiz to strike in a half-volley shot on the half-volley into the top corner. Wydad soon pulled one back as veteran Nordin Amrabat's good pass in behind the defence released South African winger Lorch to bring control and clip the ball past the goalkeeper. But Juventus were firmly in control and Cambiaso struck the post just before the hour as Randal Kolo Muani seemingly failed to convert Lloyd Kelly's ball across the box.

Vlahovic Adds Final Touch

Their third goal came just past the half-way point in the second half when France striker Kolo Muani picked up possession on the left and then played in Yildiz who shot into the corner. It was his third of the tournament thus far, and his 12th overall across all competitions since the start of the season. Substitute Vlahovic had replaced Yildiz before the fourth goal came in stoppage time, as he calmly stroked home a spot-kick after being pulled back by Guilherme Ferreira.

Jasprit Bumrah Breaks Wasim Akram’s Record, Becomes Most Successful Asian Bowler in SENA

June 22, 2025, 9:30 pm

Jasprit Bumrah once more emphasized his place as among the all-time great fast bowlers of contemporary cricket, shattering another record of yesteryears in foreign conditions. In Day 3 of the first Test vs. the English at Headingley, Bumrah claimed an exquisite five-wicket haul, producing a match figure of 5 for 83 from 24.4 overs. Though India mustered just a narrow six-run advantage having dismissed England for 465, Bumrah's individual brilliance dominated the day.

14th Test Five-For and a Kapil Dev Milestone

Bumrah's 14th five-for overall in Test and his 12th overseas was also a milestone in terms of Indian bowlers' record. He became only the second to match the great Kapil Dev for most away wickets by an Indian. But that was not the only milestone he registered in Leeds. The crowning glory of Bumrah's show was a record-breaking milestone he overtook Pakistan legend Wasim Akram to become the leading wicket-taking Asian bowler in South Africa, England, New Zealand, and Australia (SENA countries). Bumrah now tops the select list with 150 scalps in SENA conditions, moving past Akram's 146.

Jasprit Bumrah vs Wasim Akram: A Tale of Two Legends

The success is not only statistical it demonstrates Bumrah's consistent supremacy in among the most challenging conditions available to subcontinental pacers. In 32 SENA Tests, Bumrah has taken 150 wickets at a mind-boggling average of 21.03. His tally features nine five-fors and figures of 6 for 33. For perspective, Akram had picked up 146 wickets in 32 games at 24.11, with 11 five-fors and a best of 7 for 119. Bumrah's figures now represent the gold standard for Asian pacers abroad.

Jasprit Bumrah Turning the Tide for India

In the match, Bumrah's spells proved to be decisive. He got rid of England opener Zak Crawley early and then came back to shatter a dangerous partnership by sending Ben Duckett back with a peach of a ball. His constant control and pace variation provided India with much-needed support on a flat surface.

SENA Breakdown: Dominance Across Continents

Bumrah's SENA figures are awe-inspiring: 64 wickets in 12 Tests in Australia at 17.15; 39 wickets in 10 Tests in England at 26.02. These figures tell volumes about his versatility and talent in opposing conditions. Earlier during the game, India had registered a colossal 471 in their first innings, led by tons by Yashasvi Jaiswal (101), Shubman Gill (147), and Rishabh Pant (134). England's Ben Stokes (4/66) and Josh Tongue (4/86) produced a fightback later, but India had already established the tone.

Rishabh Pant Overtakes MS Dhoni with 7th Test Century in Leeds

June 21, 2025, 10:34 pm

Rishabh Pant officially stepped out of MS Dhoni’s towering shadow on Saturday as he slammed his seventh Test century, becoming the Indian wicketkeeper with the most hundreds in Test cricket. The landmark knock came in the opening Test of the five-match series against England at Headingley, and marked a new era in India’s long tradition of wicketkeeper-batters. Pant’s latest ton took him past MS Dhoni’s tally of six Test centuries, a record that had remained untouched since the former India skipper retired from the longest format. Dhoni, known for his grit and leadership, had long set the benchmark for Indian wicketkeepers. But with this century, Pant now leads the charts, underlining his place among India’s finest red-ball cricketers.

Pant’s Century Marks a Shift in Wicketkeeping Legacy

While Dhoni’s six centuries came over a long and celebrated career, Pant has notched up seven in just a few years, all while batting with flair, confidence, and maturity beyond his age. His latest hundred was also his third in England, making him the only visiting wicketkeeper in Test history to achieve that feat in the country. The updated list of Indian wicketkeepers with most Test centuries now reads:

Rishabh Pant – 7
MS Dhoni – 6
Wriddhiman Saha – 3

Pant's emergence is a reminder of the way Indian cricketing priorities have changed. From Kiran More and Nayan Mongia, glovesmen almost by definition, to Dhoni, who provided balance and leadership, and now to Pant an attacking batter who can turn matches around on his own the keeper's role has changed immensely.

Domination in England Contributes to Pant's aura

This century was also Pant's third in England, after previous ones in 2018 and 2022. No other foreign visiting wicketkeeper has hit more than a century in England. The only two others to have hit three Test hundreds outside their homeland are Les Ames (in the West Indies) and Andy Flower (in India). Pant's dominance in England is particularly impressive considering the conditions of seaming and swing-friendly pitches. His aggressive strokeplay, particularly against pace and spin both, has enabled him to thrive in conditions where most overseas batsmen find it challenging.

Rishabh Pant Among the Game's Elite

Globally, Pant is gradually ascending the list of all-time great wicketkeeper-batters. The top wicketkeepers with the most Test centuries are headed by:

Adam Gilchrist (Australia) – 17
Andy Flower (Zimbabwe) – 12
Les Ames (England) – 8
Rishabh Pant / AB de Villiers (South Africa) – 7

To be mentioned alongside the likes of AB de Villiers and Les Ames is a testament to Pant's influence, particularly in light of his age and the fact that his prime years are still likely to come.

Livvy Dunne’s Joke About Madelyn Cline Sparks Backlash

July 9, 2025, 12:19 pm

Social media exploded on Friday when LSU gymnast and internet star Livvy Dunne posted a sexually suggestive comment in reply to a post comparing her to actress Madelyn Cline. The post went instantly viral, setting off a storm of responses, many of which indicated surprise and bewilderment. The buzz started when an X (ex-Twitter) user joked about the next College World Series game between Coastal Carolina and LSU, saying it was the "Madelyn Cline vs Livvy Dunne Bowl." The joke alluded to how briefly Cline attended Coastal Carolina and how popular Dunne is at LSU. Livvy Dunne's response, though, was a surprise twist. "Goer World Series,"** she wrote an expression most found disconcerting from the usually neat and brand-aware Dunne.

Gooner World Series https://t.co/Rvb7y8SPv5
— Olivia Dunne (@livvydunne) June 20, 2025

What Does 'Goer' Mean?

The term "gooner" is a colloquialism for a specialized sexual act of prolonged arousal without orgasm, a description many were surprised to apply to Dunne. With her squeaky-clean, positive social media presence and as a Sports Illustrated Swimsuit model, the remark was unexpected. Fans were quick to respond: "Had to double check three times that this wasn't a parody account," one user posted. Another wondered, "She get hacked??? A harsher comment read, “Ew you’re not hot anymore.” One person clarified, “You realize this means M@sturbating P0rn Addict World Series.? Weird post.” The tweet quickly gained traction, racking up over 186,000 views on X.

Silence from Madelyn Cline

As the web swirled, Madelyn Cline remained silent to the viral statement. Cline, who is most famous for playing a character in Netflix's Outer Banks, is from South Carolina and briefly went to Coastal Carolina University before joining the acting industry in Los Angeles.

Public Persona of Dunne

Livvy Dunne has amassed a huge fan base online based on gymnastics and modeling, most recently catching eyes with a bikini-clad splits routine during a May 31 Miami Beach runway display. She is also currently dating Paul Skenes, a Pittsburgh Pirates pitcher and fellow LSU graduate. Even though Dunne is famous for combining glamour with sports, the dramatic shift to risqué humor has left a lot of people wondering if the post was a deliberate move or just an occasional mistake. Either way, the incident has provided yet another layer to her already celebrity profile.

Shubman Gill Faces ICC Action on Captaincy Debut?

June 21, 2025, 3:55 pm

Shubman Gill's captaincy introduction as India's Test captain began on a heavenly note but may conclude with a shocking snag. Leading the side with composure at Headingley on Day 1 of the first Test match against England, the 25-year-old made history as only the fifth Indian to achieve a century in his inaugural match as captain. Gill completed on 127, not out, a classy and fluent innings that came off 175 balls with 14 fours and a single six. It was his sixth Test hundred and the first one abroad, making him a frontline pillar in India's present and future in the red-ball game. His previous best contribution abroad, a determined 91 at the Gabba in 2021 was crucial to India's record-breaking series triumph. On Friday, his unbroken century partnership with Yashasvi Jaiswal (101) led India to the dominant path, ending Day 1 at 359/3.

Possible Clothing Rule Violation

In the midst of widespread admiration for Gill's batting, a small but significant issue has emerged. The young captain might be in trouble with the International Cricket Council (ICC) for allegedly breaching uniform regulations. Clause 19.45 of the ICC's Clothing and Equipment Regulations, which have been revised in May 2023, states that Test match players are allowed to wear light grey, white, or cream-colored socks only. Shubham Gill has been spotted wearing black socks, though, which will be a breach of rules. If it is treated as a premeditated offense, the offense would fall in the Level 1 category, and he may be fined between 10 to 20 percent of his match fee.

Referee's Call May Determine Outcome

While there is some regulation, it is in the end at the discretion of the match referee. If the black socks worn by Gill are an instance of unforeseen issues, like wet or damaged equipment, then the event can be dismissed as an error and will not result in punishment. Regardless of what the outcome is, there has been admiration for Gill's leadership and batting. His dominant presence at the crease and his ability to guide India into Day 1 with confidence have left a strong foundation for the remainder of the match. He will look to carry that momentum into Day 2 when play resumes on Saturday.

Neeraj Chopra Wins Paris Diamond League with 88.16m Throw

June 21, 2025, 7:49 am

Indian javelin champion Neeraj Chopra kicked off his 2025 season with a strong win at the Paris Diamond League, held at Charlety Stadium on 21 June. The two-time Olympic gold medallist secured first place in the men's javelin event with a throw of 88.16 metres, which he achieved on his very first attempt.

A Powerful Start That Set the Pace

Chopra dominated the competition from the beginning. His massive opening throw put him in the lead early on, and no one could surpass it for the rest of the event. Julian Weber from Germany came close, managing a best of 87.88 metres, but he fell short of overtaking Chopra in any of his six throws. Meanwhile, Brazil’s Luiz da Silva impressed everyone by taking third place with a personal best of 86.62 metres.

First Major Win of the Season

This Paris win was Chopra’s first big triumph of 2025. Earlier in May, he had finished second at the Doha Diamond League, where Weber took the win in a dramatic final round with a long throw. That event was memorable as both Chopra and Weber crossed the 90-metre mark for the first time in their careers.

Upcoming Competitions for Chopra

Neeraj Chopra is scheduled to compete again at the Golden Spike meet in Ostrava, Czechia on 24 June. After that, he will return to India to participate in the first-ever Neeraj Chopra Classic in Bengaluru on 5 July.

Temba Bavuma Faces Major Setback Days After Leading South Africa to WTC Glory

June 21, 2025, 5:00 am

South African skipper Temba Bavuma has been sidelined from the forthcoming two-Test series against Zimbabwe because of a left hamstring strain he picked up in last week's World Test Championship (WTC) final against Australia at Lord's. Bavuma, who will be subjected to additional scans to ascertain the severity of the injury, fought through the pain in the second innings and contributed a game-changing knock of 66 coupled with Aiden Markram's 136 that saw them win the WTC. Without Bavuma, the world champions will be spearheaded by spinner Keshav Maharaj in the series which commences from June 28 in Bulawayo. The series will also serve as the commencement of the new WTC cycle for both teams.

CSA Confirms Injury and Captaincy Change

"Proteas Men's Test captain Temba Bavuma has been ruled out of the upcoming two-match Test series against Zimbabwe due to a left hamstring strain," Cricket South Africa wrote on X. "Bavuma sustained the injury while batting during South Africa's second innings on day three of the ICC World Test Championship Final against Australia at Lord's Cricket Ground. He is set to undergo further scans to assess the extent of the injury. Keshav Maharaj will captain the side in his absence," it added.

South Africa Rests Key Players; Names Five Uncapped Stars

Proteas team has five uncapped players as South Africa have decided to rest some of their first-choice all-format players, such as Aiden Markram and Kagiso Rabada. Lungi Ngidi, their pace bowler, will be available only for the second Test. This is Bavuma's third hamstring injury in less than two years. He had one earlier in the 2023 ODI World Cup, where he took the field for the semi-final with the injury, and again at the Boxing Day Test against India. He has also been working through ongoing elbow problems and often plays with his left elbow heavily strapped. In the wake of the Zimbabwe series - where Bavuma is expected to come back - South Africa's immediate future is filled with ODIs against Australia in August and England in September. Their next WTC expedition starts with Pakistan in October before the tour of India in November.

No Home Test for South Africa Until 2026

Interestingly, South Africa will not have a home Test until October 2026 when they host Australia. Bavuma has indicated his hope of continuing playing through until the 2027 home ODI World Cup, if his fitness holds out.

South Africa Squad for Zimbabwe Series

South Africa team: David Bedingham, Matthew Breetzke, Dewald Brevis, Corbin Bosch, Tony de Zorzi, Zubayr Hamza, Keshav Maharaj (captain), Kwena Maphaka, Wiaan Mulder, Lungi Ngidi (second Test only), Lhuan-dre Pretorius, Lesego Senokwane, Prenelan Subrayen, Kyle Verreynne, Codi Yusuf.

Yashasvi Jaiswal Becomes First Ever to Score Debut Test Tons in England & Australia

June 21, 2025, 12:01 am

Yashasvi Jaiswal has accomplished what no other cricket batter could ever do. Viv Richards, Sunil Gavaskar, Sachin Tendulkar, Rahul Dravid. Jacques Kallis, Kumar Sangakkara, Virat Kohli, AB de Villiers. No one. Batters from various generations, part of various teams but no one even got close to what Jaiswal accomplished. The India opener pounded his fifth Test ton in the series opener of the Anderson-Tendulkar Trophy at Headingley in Leeds on Friday.

Centuries in England and Australia on Debut for Yashasvi Jaiswal

This was Jaiswal's fifth overall Test century, third against England and his first in England on his first try. Along the way, Jaiswal achieved the distinction of being the first visiting batsman ever to score centuries on his debut Test in England as well as Australia. Indian cricketer Suryakumar Yadav, 23 years old, had scored 161 in his initial Test in Australia (Perth) in the Border-Gavaskar Trophy 2024-25. On Friday, he scored his first-ever Test century in England in his maiden try. Significantly, Tendulkar scored a century on his first Test tours of England and Australia, but not in his initial Test there. Tendulkar scored his first century in England in his second Test (Manchester) and his first in Australia in his third try in Adelaide.

Yashasvi Jaiswal Reaching the Milestone with Flair

Following a couple of successive fours against Brydon Carse in the 49th over, Jaiswal reached his milestone on the final ball with a single. He did not try to conceal his joy. He jumped, screamed and screamed again to inform the capacity crowd as well as the viewers all over the world that he has now achieved centuries in Australia, the West Indies and England. Jaiswal, who made a century against West Indies in his Test debut, compiled over 700 runs in the England series at home last year and the left-hander carried his rich run of form against the Three Lions even in their own den. Jaiswal's century had come at a time when there were genuine worries about how India's new-generation batting lineup was going to fare under foreign conditions following the retirements of the legends Virat Kohli and Rohit Sharma.

Partnership Power with KL Rahul and Shubman Gill

Jaiswal started with authority in the morning session, teaming up with KL Rahul to present India with a good platform after Ben Stokes opted to bowl first. The duo took advantage of a poor England pace attack, creaming anything overpitched or heading down the pads. Their 91-run first-wicket stand set the tone before Rahul, who was on 42, edged Brydon Carse to Joe Root at slip, and debutant Sai Sudharsan got out for a duck soon after. But Jaiswal rallied quickly and had a capable partner in new skipper Shubman Gill. They stitched together an unbeaten 123-run stand by tea, taking India to 215-2. Gill, eager and stylish, hit a quickest fifty in Tests worth 58* with big drives and pulls that complemented measured Jaiswal's stroke-play.

Controlled Aggression and Discipline

Jaiswal displayed better discipline, particularly against deliveries in the channel outside off, where he had difficulty in the preceding matches. His century was off 144 balls and contained 16 boundaries, and had moments of sheer timing as well as resolute defence. He did get a bit crampy towards the end of the session occasionally but kept a cool head, getting his hundred with a neat single after consecutive boundaries from Carse. The highly-rated left-arm bowler was bowled clean for 101 soon after Tea as England skipper Ben Stokes delivered a gem of a ball to beat his bat.

Shubman Gill Scores Ton on Captaincy Debut, Joins Elite Indian Legends

June 20, 2025, 11:08 pm

Shubman Gill made his debut as captain in style on Friday, making him just the fifth Indian batsman to score a century in his inaugural Test game as captain. The achievement came in the first Test between India and England at Headingley, Leeds.

Shubman Gill Joins Elite Club of Indian Captains

Having reached the age of only 25, Gill's unflappable and assured innings ensured that his name was placed amongst some of India's finest cricketers. This century made him part of an elite group consisting of Vijay Hazare, Sunil Gavaskar, Dilip Vengsarkar, and Virat Kohli all of whom had also achieved the milestone of reaching a hundred in their first match as Test captain.

First Test Century Outside Asia for Shubman Gill

This was Gill's sixth Test century and his first overseas. Previously, his top score outside Asia had been the 91-run effort against Australia at the Gabba, Brisbane in 2021 a vital innings in India's record series win. With seven half-centuries already to his credit, Gill's latest achievement is another milestone forward in his thriving red-ball career. Of all in the exclusive club, Vijay Hazare still has the record of the top Indian captain's debut score, his 164 not out against England in Delhi in 1951. Virat Kohli, who abdicated Test cricket in May 2025, had made a powerful statement in 2014 with his centuries in both innings against Australia at Adelaide on his first day as captain.

A New Era After Rohit and Kohli

With Rohit Sharma and Virat Kohli officially retired from Test cricket, the younger generation now leads India’s red-ball future. Gill’s composed hundred under pressure reflects his readiness for the role and offers a promising glimpse into the team’s new era. While the Headingley Test goes on, everyone is watching for how 25-year-old skipper leads his team through this critical five-match series. For the time being, Shubman Gill has already etched his name in India's cricketing history.

Sanjay Manjrekar’s Subtle Dig at Virat Kohli After Rahul, Jaiswal Shine

June 20, 2025, 9:22 pm

A Virat Kohli, Rohit Sharma and Ravichandran Ashwin-less India made a good start in the current five-match series against England after India captain Rohit Sharma opted to bat first against Ben Stokes at Headingley, Leeds, in the first Test. India's opening pair KL Rahul and Yashasvi Jaiswal combined caution with aggression to take England's pace attack comprising Chris Woakes, Brydon Carse, Jos Tongue and Stokes on a tight leash. Watching from the commentary box, former India cricketer Sanjay Manjrekar praised the duo’s disciplined approach against testing conditions.

Manjrekar Praises Rahul and Jaiswal, Takes Subtle Dig at Kohli

Ex-India batsman Sanjay Manjrekar lauded Rahul and Jaiswal for their restraint in not poking at balls that were being delivered outside the off-stump. But in the process, he took a dig at ex-India skipper Virat Kohli, who had hung up his Test boots in May 2025, just days before the announcement of the squad for the England series. Talking about Kohli, the right-handed batsman was dismissed on all eight instances against Australia in the same manner as he continued to pursue deliveries on the fourth and fifth stump lines. This chink has actually bothered Kohli throughout his career, and in the Border-Gavaskar Trophy, players like Pat Cummins, Mitchell Starc, Josh Hazlewood, and Scott Boland actually capitalized upon it to the extent.

Rahul-Jaiswal Display Grit in Headingley Conditions

Talking about the Headingley Test, Rahul and Jaiswal were not looking nervous as the pair showed a clear game plan against England's pace attack. Rahul and Jaiswal rode out the new ball during the first hour. But the pair were eager for loose balls. "Deliveries outside the off stump, full, have been left alone. Jaiswal has done that. Anything that has been pitched right up into the stumps, he has driven. Anything that has been wide, he has looked to score on. KL Rahul has not touched one delivery or attempted to play one single delivery that's been full, just outside off. Anything that has been wide, he has gone with a covered drive," said Manjrekar while commentating in the first session on Day 1 of the first Test. "So a lot of what you're seeing is being created by these two batters, and my hat's off to them. We know of a former batter who would have gone after that delivery and got himself into trouble. But not these two," he added.

KL Rahul Falls After Strong Start; Sudharsan and Nair in Line-Up

It should be noted that Rahul's dismissal finally arrived when he attempted to play a delivery that was well outside off. The right-hander attempted a massive booming drive and lost his wicket to Brydon Carse for 42. India have given a debut to Sai Sudharsan in the first Test. The left-hander would bat at No.3. Karun Nair has also come back to the Test playing XI after eight years. He would bat at No.6.

Sanjay Manjrekar on India’s Young Batting Core

Sanjay Manjrekar added that this may be a young batting line-up, but all of the members selected in the playing XI possess good technique, which would benefit the team. “That's why I believe this is a young batting line-up. But when you look at their batting technique, they have the technique to survive in challenging test conditions. Sai Sudarshan as well. T20 Sensation will come and defend well. Down the order, Rishabh Pant has a good defence,” said Manjrekar. “Jadeja as well. Karun Nair, I'm not sure how he'll go. But these two have shown that, for openers, they're just ideal with their defensive technique,” he added. Earlier, England skipper Ben Stokes had won the toss and invited India to bat. The hosts are fielding with one spinner, Shoaib Bashir.

‘A Decade On, Still Unfair’: KL Rahul Row Divides Experts, Manjrekar Hits Back

June 20, 2025, 6:16 pm

KL Rahul's to-and-fro position in the Indian Test team has sparked renewed argument among ex-cricketers, with Deep Dasgupta and Sanjay Manjrekar sharing differing opinions in a Star Sports discussion before India bat against England at Headingley. Dasgupta, who was a wicketkeeper for India, said that Rahul has been given unfair treatment by the BCCI, attributing his modest Test average of 33.57 from playing 58 matches to a lack of consistency in his batting role over the last ten years. "See, I just hope that they offer him a permanent role now. He debuted in 2014. It's been over ten years, yet we don't know where does he belong in the Indian Test team? Is he a middle-order batsman? Is he an opener?" Dasgupta wondered. He underlined that Rahul's career has been influenced more by team needs rather than individual consistency, stating the batter tends to change roles from opener to middle-order, even wicketkeeper, depending on team demands. "It's like KL Rahul is attempting to secure his spot from series to series. You want a wicketkeeper in South Africa, call him. You want a No. 5, call him. Opener? Sure… It's been ten years now. Come on. Provide him with that series… and inform him here's the manner in which we're viewing you – as an opener – and play him," Dasgupta implored.

Manjrekar Asserts Rahul Has Failed at Any Batting Spot

In recognizing Rahul's batting positional adjustments, Sanjay Manjrekar provided a biting counterpoint, painting the picture that Rahul's own inconsistency, and not poor team management, lies at the core of his disappointing Test career. "Can't I disagree? I will be polite. I think KL Rahul hasn't delivered the sort of consistency that's expected of him at any spot," Manjrekar stated. He said that Rahul's statistics have not warranted a permanent position, and that the best performers are never replaced unless they perform poorly. "If this is a man who has averaged 52 as an opener, no one would even think about dropping him to No. 4 or No. 5," Manjrekar further said. Even though Rahul has played more than 2800 runs as an opener, since he became inconsistent, the selectors have felt it is right to try him out in a different batting position. In his six games at no. 6, Rahul has managed to score merely 234 runs. Manjrekar wrapped up by accepting Rahul's technical strength but argued that performance eventually has to drive selection. "Massive responsibility on him. And Deep, after your evaluation of leaving the balls, let's see how Rahul approaches it today," he said.

The Bigger Picture: Rahul's Place Still Unclear

KL Rahul's Test career is still one of the most puzzling in recent Indian cricket history. Injuries, batting issues, and selection overhauls have all contributed to his uncertain position in the XI. Whereas Dasgupta urges clear thinking and sustained investment, Manjrekar insists on performance-based selection — a divergence from the wider Indian cricket debate between cultivating talent or rewarding success. As the Tests roll on, everyone's eyes will be on KL Rahul, whose next couple of innings can well decide which of the two schools of thought is correct.

Kylian Mbappe Hospitalized During Club World Cup, Real Madrid Await Update

June 20, 2025, 1:43 am

Real Madrid striker Kylian Mbappe has been admitted to hospital with a severe case of gastroenteritis, the Spanish side announced on Thursday. World Cup champion Mbappe was not present for Madrid's opening match at the Club World Cup against Saudi Arabian side Al-Hilal in Miami on Wednesday due to a high fever.

Coach Hopes for Recovery of Kylian Mbappe Before Next Game

Coach Xabi Alonso hoped Mbappe would be ready for the team's next match against Pachuca on Sunday. Mbappe's hospitalization, however, puts in question what role he could possibly have in the month-long competition in the United States. Madrid announced Mbappe would "undergo a series of tests and follow the appropriate course of treatment." Kylian Mbappe's absence is a setback for the tournament, which FIFA president Gianni Infantino hopes to be among soccer's elite tournaments and compete against others like the Champions League and Premier League in terms of popularity and worth.

Missed Opportunity for U.S. Fans to See Kylian Mbappe

Following Lionel Messi, Mbappe is arguably the biggest star in the spectacle, with Madrid among the title favorites in the first edition of the tournament. But a gathering of over 62,000 at Hard Rock Stadium was denied a rare opportunity to view him in the flesh in the U.S. when he was not available for Madrid's unexpected 1-1 draw by Al-Hilal on Wednesday.

Illness Symptoms and Recent Injury History

Gastroenteritis has also been referred to as stomach flu and some of its symptoms include vomiting and diarrhea. Mbappe's hospitalization is nearly a year to the day that he broke his nose during the European Championship and was forced to wear a face mask to keep playing in the tournament.

Madrid’s Tournament Hopes Hang in Balance

The timing of Mbappe’s illness could not have come at a worse moment for Real Madrid, who are looking to make a dominant statement on the global stage through the Club World Cup. With mounting expectations and global attention fixed on the tournament, his health status remains a crucial factor in the club’s strategy moving forward. As fans and teammates await updates, the medical team is monitoring Mbappe’s recovery closely, hoping for a quick return to action that could still salvage his Club World Cup campaign.

Shubman Gill Issues Big Warning to England Ahead of Test Series: “We Can Win Anywhere”

June 19, 2025, 10:22 pm

As India prepares to take on England in the highly anticipated Test series starting June 20 in Leeds, newly-appointed Test captain Shubman Gill addressed the media with clarity and confidence, laying out his vision for the team's approach. "The blueprint that we have received from our seniors in the past 5-10 years is that we can win anywhere," Gill stated during the pre-match press conference. "We will try to follow that blueprint with confidence," he added.

Shubman Gill on Building a Strong Team Culture

Gill emphasized the importance of creating a positive and secure environment within the squad, highlighting how team culture directly impacts performance on the field. "If the environment in the team is good and the players feel secure and confident and they know their roles in the team, we want to create that environment. This will make our Test series and ICC World Test Championship cycle very successful," he noted. India tour of England will be from June 20 to August 4, 2025, and matches will be held at Headingley (Leeds), Edgbaston (Birmingham), Lord's (London), Old Trafford (Manchester), and The Oval (London).

A New Era Under The Leadership of Shubman Gill

A fresh chapter awaits India in the Test arena as the contemporary giants prepare to face their inaugural task minus the golden-haired batting giants Rohit Sharma and Virat Kohli. Shubman Gill, India's youngest ever Test skipper, has inherited the mantle from Rohit to lead the country to victory and vie for the World Test Championship mace.

India's Squad for England Tour

India's team: Shubman Gill (c), Rishabh Pant (wk), Yashasvi Jaiswal, KL Rahul, Sai Sudharsan, Abhimanyu Easwaran, Karun Nair, Nitish Reddy, Ravindra Jadeja, Dhruv Jurel (wk), Washington Sundar, Shardul Thakur, Jasprit Bumrah, Mohammad Siraj, Prasidh Krishna, Akash Deep, Arshdeep Singh, Kuldeep Yadav, Harshit Rana.

England's Playing XI for the First Test

England Playing XI in the 1st Test vs. India: Zak Crawley, Ben Duckett, Ollie Pope, Joe Root, Harry Brook, Ben Stokes (C), Jamie Smith (WK), Chris Woakes, Brydon Carse, Josh Tongue, Shoaib Bashir.

Messi Declared Fit for Porto Clash Despite Injury Concerns

June 19, 2025, 3:42 pm

Lionel Messi will feature in Inter Miami’s crucial Group A clash against Porto on Thursday, confirmed coach Javier Mascherano. Despite a viral video showing Messi touching his left leg during training, Mascherano reassured fans that the Argentine legend feels fully fit and is ready to play.

Messi Cleared to Play in Key Club World Cup Match

“Leo is fit, he trained, he completed the whole session,” Mascherano told reporters. “He was touching his leg. Sometimes people touch themselves, but there’s no problem. He’s fit, and obviously he will play tomorrow.” This confirmation puts to rest the swirling speculation about Messi’s availability after Wednesday’s training video sparked concern online. Inter Miami will rely heavily on Messi’s influence as they look for their first win in the tournament. Mascherano also confirmed that left-back Jordi Alba is back in contention after missing the previous match due to injury. “We’ll evaluate what’s best for us, if he starts or not,” he said with a smile. “Actually, I already know, but I won’t tell you.”

Miami Faces Major Test Against Porto

Mascherano emphasized that Inter Miami must keep possession to challenge Porto, a team known for its Champions League pedigree. “We have players who feel much more comfortable when they’re in possession,” Mascherano said. “Of course, we’re facing a team that also is used to doing that… but on the pitch, we’re 11 against 11.” Midfield veteran Sergio Busquets, another of Messi’s former Barcelona teammates, also acknowledged the challenge ahead. “They are a team that compete every year for their league, against other great teams like Sporting and Benfica,” Busquets said. “We’ll try to be as solid as possible, stick close together, and try to do the best we can as a team. If we get chances, we have the individuals (who can finish them), but above all we have to be solid and keep a clean sheet.” With Messi cleared to start, Inter Miami fans will hope their team can rise to the occasion. Fans hope that they can secure a statement win against European opposition.

Lakers’ $10 Billion Deal: Mark Walter to Buy Majority Stake

June 19, 2025, 12:27 pm

In a historic U.S. sports deal, the Los Angeles Lakers are selling their majority stake to billionaire investor Mark Walter. The estimated $10 billion deal will surpass all previous franchise transactions. This will mark the end of the Buss family's 45-year reign over the legendary NBA team. The Buss family, which has owned the Lakers since 1979, has reportedly reached an agreement with Walter, CEO of TWG Global.

Mark Walter Set to Buy Majority Stake in Lakers for Record $10 Billion

While Walter already holds a 20% stake since 2021, this new acquisition will grant him majority control. A spokesperson for Walter confirmed the move: “Mark Walter is agreeing to acquire additional interests in the NBA’s Los Angeles Lakers.” Walter is no stranger to the world of sports ownership. He also owns a controlling stake in the Los Angeles Dodgers, who won the World Series in 2020 under his leadership. His global sports investments include Chelsea Football Club and the soon-to-debut Cadillac Formula 1 Team.

Jeanie Buss to Remain Governor as Legacy Enters New Chapter

The Buss family currently holds a 66% stake in the team through a trust shared by the late Jerry Buss’s six children. According to the Los Angeles Times, a majority of the siblings had to approve any sale. Despite the change in ownership, Jeanie Buss will remain as the team’s governor under the terms of the agreement. NBA icon Magic Johnson expressed his support for the transition on social media, saying, “I just talked to my sister Jeanie Buss to tell her congratulations… Mark will do right by the Lakers team, organization, and fans!” This blockbuster deal follows the $6.1 billion sale of the Boston Celtics in March, which itself had broken the record previously held by the Washington Commanders. Now, with a $10 billion price tag, the Lakers’ sale is set to rewrite the history of American sports economics.

Kapil Dev on Renaming Pataudi Trophy: ‘Felt Strange’ | Watch

June 19, 2025, 10:47 am

Indian cricket legend Kapil Dev admitted that the renaming of the Pataudi Trophy to the Tendulkar-Anderson Trophy made him feel “a little strange.”In a recent interview, Kapil said that while the change surprised him, he believes the quality of cricket matters more than the name of the trophy.

Kapil Dev Feels ‘Strange’ About Trophy Rename

“Cricket is cricket. What happens on the ground should be good. The rest you can keep changing; it did feel a little strange when it happened. I did think, does this happen as well? But it’s ok, everything goes in cricket,” said Kapil.

VIDEO | Here's what 1983 World Cup winning captain Kapil Dev (@therealkapildev) said about the decision to rename the Pataudi Trophy to the Anderson-Tendulkar Trophy.
“I was surprised to hear the change of name from Pataudi to Sachin-Anderson. Such things don’t usually happen… pic.twitter.com/bdZSdeLJyC — Press Trust of India (@PTI_News) June 18, 2025

The Pataudi Trophy was first introduced in 2007 by the Marylebone Cricket Club (MCC) to commemorate 75 years of India’s Test cricket history. Named after Iftikhar Ali Khan Pataudi and his son Mansoor Ali Khan “Tiger” Pataudi, both of whom played for India, the trophy was a symbol of shared cricket heritage. The new name, however, has sparked debate, with critics questioning the relevance of pairing Sachin Tendulkar and James Anderson, two players who didn’t compete directly during their peak years.

Kapil’s Advice for Young India Squad: ‘Just Express Yourself’

Kapil Dev also spoke about India’s upcoming five-Test series in England, beginning June 20. Kapil Dev urged newly appointed captain Shubman Gill and his relatively inexperienced squad to play freely and avoid feeling burdened by expectations. “I just don’t have any expectations, just go, play, express yourself. That is more important,” he advised. Kapil Dev is one of the few Indian captains who have led India to a series victory in England. He secured a 2-0 win. With seasoned players like Rohit Sharma, Virat Kohli, and Ravichandran Ashwin stepping away from Test cricket, the onus now lies on a younger team to make their mark in one of cricket’s toughest environments. Shubman Gill, as the new Test captain for India, will be looking to start his tenure with a victory.

Manchester City Eye Redemption Through Club World Cup After Disappointing Season

June 18, 2025, 12:26 am

New-look Manchester City kick off their Club World Cup campaign against Moroccan club Wydad AC at the Lincoln Field Stadium in Philadelphia on Wednesday evening. The Club World Cup has acquired an added significance after Pep Guardiola's team finished last season a disappointing third in the Premier League, were eliminated from the Champions League prematurely and ended the season with a loss to Crystal Palace in the FA Cup final. In addition to providing the opportunity of some redeeming silverware and a vital payday, the Club World Cup provides Guardiola with the opportunity to acclimatize new players before next season in the Premier League, Xinhua reports.

New Signings Offer Hope of Turnaround for Manchester City

Manchester City have moved swiftly to begin to address last season's shortcomings with four signings, all of whom are capable of participating in the tournament. Left-back Rayan Ait Nouri, midfielder Tijani Reijnders, and forward Rayan Cherki should inject more flair into the team, with goalkeeper Marcus Bettinelli being a proven back-up on the bench. Along with looking to view his new signings settle into his way of playing, with Ait Nouri hopefully providing some balance to a side that appeared to play a lot of last season without a dedicated left-back, Guardiola will also be hoping Rodri Hernandez can utilize the tournament to increase his recovery.

Rodri’s Return Vital Amid Injury Setbacks

Rodri sat out almost all of last season with a cruciate knee ligament tear, coming on for a few minutes as the season wound down, and with Mateo Kovacic injured and thus not in the squad for the tournament, this return now would be a massive help to the City midfield and maybe reveal what they have been losing.

Pressure on January Signings to Step Up for Manchester City

At the same time, others like Nico Gonzalez and Abdukodir Khusanov, who came in January, must also lift their game.

Kevin de Bruyne is no longer at City after making the switch to Napoli on a free transfer, and Jack Grealish has reefted out of the team and will likely be off this summer, as will Kyle Walker, with the England right-back rumored to be joining Everton in the last few hours.

Kristof Milak Withdraws from 2025 Worlds to Focus on LA 2028

June 17, 2025, 4:51 pm

Hungarian Olympic champion Kristof Milak will not participate in the upcoming 2025 World Aquatics Championships in Singapore, scheduled for July 11 to August 3. The announcement came from his coach, Almos Szabo, during an interview with Hungarian National Sports Radio.

Kristof Milak to Skip World Championships, Citing Burnout

Szabo, who began coaching Milak in late 2024, revealed that the swimmer has been struggling with motivation since Paris 2024. "We discussed this. Kristof has indicated this intention, and I support him in this," Szabo told M4 Sport. "We all feel the year after the Olympics on our skin, and it’s terribly difficult to find motivation at this time." This decision marks Milak’s third straight absence from the long-course World Championships, having already skipped the 2023 and 2024 editions.

Focus Now on LA28 and World Records

Despite skipping recent championships, Milak has stayed dominant at the Olympics—winning gold in the 100m butterfly and silver in the 200m at Paris 2024, after striking gold and silver in the opposite events at Tokyo 2020. Szabo believes that this break will help Milak reignite his passion for swimming. “According to our shared ideas, he still has a chance to break the world record in the two butterfly events, he has the knowledge to do so," the coach added. Milak’s absence opens up the field for other top swimmers. In the 100m butterfly, nine swimmers have clocked sub-51-second times this season, led by Switzerland’s Noe Ponti with 50.27. In the 200m, France's Leon Marchand, who beat Milak at Paris 2024, enters as the top contender, despite not racing the event in long course this year. American swimmer Luca Urlando currently leads the world rankings with 1:52.37. As Milak sits out to prepare for LA28, all eyes will be on whether the break helps him chase the elusive world records in butterfly events.

Neeraj Chopra Aims for Glory at Home as NC Classic Nears

June 17, 2025, 2:54 pm

Ahead of the much-awaited Neeraj Chopra Classic (NC Classic) in Bengaluru, Neeraj Chopra shared his thoughts about the event. In a video posted on Instagram, he reflected on his long-standing goal. He said, "Once upon a time, there was a dream that the Indian flag should fly high proudly in front of the world."

However, he added that the stage has now shifted. "Even today, it is the same dream, but the stage has changed. Now, that flag has to fly higher on its own soil, among its own people."

View this post on Instagram

A post shared by Neeraj Chopra Classic (@neerajchopraclassic)

Postponement Due to Border Tensions

Originally, the event was set for May 24. However, due to cross-border tensions between India and Pakistan, organisers postponed it to July 5. Despite the delay, excitement around the competition continues to grow.

Chopra Describes NC Classic as a Stage for History

Neeraj believes the event will make history. He said, "Neeraj Chopra Classic is an event where every javelin not only falls on the ground, but also writes history."

He also invited fans to witness greatness, adding, "See, the world's best javelin throwers, on the same ground, for a new Taj."

Top International Athletes Confirmed

As of now, organisers have confirmed a 12-member line-up. The final entry list remains almost identical to the earlier one, with only one change: Martin Konecny of Poland replaces Genki Dean of Japan.

Notably, world-renowned athletes like:

Anderson Peters (Grenada),
Thomas Rohler (Germany),
and Julius Yego (Kenya)
will compete as initially planned.

Strong International Presence Continues

Furthermore, the competition will see participation from:

Curtis Thompson (USA),
Luiz Mauricio da Silva (Brazil),
and Rumesh Pathirage (Sri Lanka).

This diverse field adds global strength to the Bengaluru meet.

Indian Javelin Stars Will Also Compete

Alongside Neeraj, several Indian athletes will represent the host country:

Kishore Jena
Sachin Yadav
Rohit Yadav
Sahil Silwal

Notably, Sachin Yadav recently won a silver medal at the Asian Athletics Championships in Gumi, South Korea, finishing just behind Pakistan’s Arshad Nadeem.

Venue Shift from Haryana to Bengaluru

Initially, organisers planned to hold the event at Tau Devi Lal Stadium in Panchkula, Haryana. However, due to technical problems with the stadium’s floodlights, they shifted the venue to Kanteerava Stadium in Bengaluru.

India to Host Its Highest-Level Athletics Meet

Moreover, this event holds special status. The NC Classic is part of the World Athletics (WA) Continental Tour Gold. Therefore, it becomes the most prestigious international athletics event ever hosted in India.

Full Entry List for Neeraj Chopra Classic 2025

Here is the final list of javelin athletes:

Neeraj Chopra (India)
Anderson Peters (Grenada)
Luiz Mauricio da Silva (Brazil)
Thomas Rohler (Germany)
Curtis Thompson (USA)
Martin Konecny (Poland)
Julius Yego (Kenya)
Rumesh Pathirage (Sri Lanka)
Sachin Yadav (India)
Rohit Yadav (India)
Sahil Silwal (India)
Kishore Jena (India)

Three Super Overs In Record-Breaking T20I | Watch

June 17, 2025, 12:32 pm

Cricket fans witnessed history in Glasgow on Monday, as the T20I clash between the Netherlands and Nepal became the first-ever men’s professional match to feature three super overs. In a nail-biting thriller, the Netherlands finally emerged victorious over Nepal in a game that will be remembered for its incredible drama and rare occurrences.

Unprecedented Triple Super Over Drama in Glasgow T20I

The Netherlands scored 152/7 while batting first in this tri-series match that also includes Scotland. Though the Dutch seemed poised for an easy win, Nepal's Nandan Yadav hit two clutch boundaries in the last over to tie the match and push it into a super over — a rare enough event in itself.

Here’s how the super overs unfolded:

Netherlands vs Nepal Last Over & 3 Super Overs Ball By Ball pic.twitter.com/43RQEgS6et
— PCT Replays 2.0 (@ReplaysPCT) June 16, 2025

First Super Over:

Nepal batted first and smashed 19 runs. Thanks to opener Kushan Bhurtel, who went wild with two sixes and a four off Daniel Doram. But Netherlands opener Max O'Dowd matched Bhurtel’s fireworks with two sixes and a four of his own. This resulted in a tied super over and sending the match into a second super over.

Second Super Over:

Netherlands batted first again, with O'Dowd hitting another six. Captain Scott Edwards joined the action with one of his own to post 18 runs. Nepal wasn’t done yet — captain Rohit Paudel struck a six, and Dipendra Singh Airee smashed a six and a four to tie the game yet again, leading to the third and final super over.

Third Super Over:

This time, Nepal collapsed. Off-spinner Zach Lion-Cachet dismissed both batters without conceding a run, giving the Netherlands a golden opportunity. Michael Levitt made quick work of the target, smashing the first delivery for six and sealing the unforgettable win. Lion-Cachet was named ‘Player of the Match’ for his game-changing over. Super overs have long added edge-of-the-seat excitement to cricket. The 2019 World Cup final between England and New Zealand is a famous example. Ending in a tie, even after one super over and being decided by boundary count — a rule since changed. Monday's match, however, marked a true first in men's T20 and List-A cricket, as the Netherlands beat Nepal in the sport’s first triple super over.

Jos Buttler Says He Was ‘Scared’ Watching Suryavanshi’s Brutal Knock

June 17, 2025, 12:13 pm

Rajasthan Royals took a bold step by purchasing Vaibhav Suryavanshi for ₹1.1 crore during the IPL 2025 mega auction. Many had questioned the decision, but it quickly proved to be a smart move. Suryavanshi had already impressed with his performance for India U-19, and people had started comparing him to Sachin Tendulkar.

Youngest IPL Debutant in History

In the early matches, RR kept Suryavanshi on the bench. But after Sanju Samson was injured, the team gave him a chance to open alongside Yashasvi Jaiswal. He made his debut on April 19, 2025, against Lucknow Super Giants. At just 14 years and 23 days old, he became the youngest player ever to debut in the IPL. In that match, he scored 34 runs off 20 balls, and hit a six on the very first ball he faced.

Breaking Records in Just His Second Game

In his next match against Gujarat Titans, Suryavanshi went a step further. He scored an explosive 101 runs off 38 balls, reaching his century in just 35 deliveries. He played without fear and took on top bowlers like Mohammed Siraj and Rashid Khan, becoming the youngest centurion in IPL history.

Jos Buttler Shares His Impressions

On a podcast with Stuart Broad, Jos Buttler spoke about Suryavanshi’s stunning performance. He mentioned feeling both inspired and slightly disheartened watching someone 20 years younger play with such dominance. According to Buttler, the cricket world was in shock after seeing what the youngster had achieved.

He recalled how Suryavanshi had hit a six on his very first IPL ball, adding that it looked like a planned shot rather than a lucky one. Buttler pointed out that the teenager gave himself space and struck it over wide long-off confidently.

Fearless Attitude Impresses the Experts

Buttler observed that Suryavanshi showed no hesitation in any of his games. He believed that many young cricketers now aim to make bold statements, and Vaibhav was a clear example of that. He said the sixes weren’t just clearing the boundary but were massive shots.

He also spoke about Suryavanshi’s century against Gujarat Titans, calling it “outrageous.” Buttler said the boy looked completely in control, even when facing experienced players.

Handling Pressure Like a Pro

Buttler recalled another game where Suryavanshi played against Chennai Super Kings, who had experienced bowlers like Ravichandran Ashwin and Ravindra Jadeja. He noted that Suryavanshi managed to hit them into the stands with ease, and then calmly took a single when needed. At that moment, Buttler thought the young player might be the best he had ever seen.

Style Reminiscent of Cricket Legends

Buttler mentioned that his team had studied Suryavanshi’s previous games. He compared the teen’s smooth bat swing to that of Yuvraj Singh and Brian Lara, though he admitted it was a bold comparison. He also mentioned that the youngster had already played first-class cricket at 12, and came from Bihar, a region not known for producing many top cricketers.

Early Signs of Greatness

Before the IPL auction, Suryavanshi had scored one of the fastest centuries for India U-19 against Australia U-19, which caught the attention of several franchises. Buttler said people had already seen videos of his talent.

He admitted jokingly that it felt strange to feel nervous about facing a 14-year-old, but Suryavanshi’s skills justified the hype.

Currently Touring with India U-19 in England

Suryavanshi is now on tour in England with the India U-19 team. Fans and cricket experts alike are closely watching to see how this rising star continues to grow.

‘Kohli Fought Back, Sachin Stayed Calm’: James Anderson | Watch

June 17, 2025, 11:02 am

Legendary England fast bowler James Anderson has faced some of the best batters in cricket history, but few match the stature of India’s Sachin Tendulkar and Virat Kohli. Speaking on a recent podcast, Anderson opened up about his personal battles with the two Indian greats, offering a rare, behind-the-scenes glimpse into how different they were, not just in how they batted, but in how they carried themselves on the field.

Anderson Says Kohli Brought a Fierce Challenge, Unlike Calm Sachin

Anderson played 39 Tests against India during his long career and dismissed Tendulkar nine times and Kohli seven times. Reflecting on Kohli’s early struggles in England, he said, “I had some success early against Kohli, the first time he came to England in 2014. I really exploited his weakness of outside off-stump.” He added that Kohli returned a completely different player in the next series. “He had obviously gone back and worked on that – he was totally a different player… made it very difficult for not just me but for bowlers in general.”

“With Kohli, There Was a Shift in Dominance”

Anderson spoke about how Kohli evolved over time, something he didn’t experience with Tendulkar. “Against Sachin, I didn’t feel like there was that sort of shift in dominance. With Kohli, there was definitely a shift. Found him a very difficult player to bowl at because he had that steely mindset, wanting to get into a battle.”

"I didn't feel any sort of shift in dominance while facing Sachin but there was definitely a shift with Kohli "
- James Anderson pic.twitter.com/eBhJa5h0TH — Sohel. (@SohelVkf) June 16, 2025

Kohli’s poor 2014 tour saw him score only 134 runs across five Tests at an average of 13.50. But in 2018, he roared back with 593 runs at an average of 59.30. Notably, Anderson didn’t dismiss him even once in that series. Talking about Kohli’s on-field attitude, Anderson said, “Kohli was a slightly different character than Sachin… more expressive with his emotions. Wore them on his sleeves.” He added, “I tried… to think of him as a batter and not too much about who it was. It was difficult at times; we had many battles on the field.” When it came to Tendulkar, Anderson chose to avoid verbal confrontations. “I definitely had more verbal battles with Virat than with Sachin. With Sachin I tried not to... He had this sort of God-like presence.” Anderson also noted how Kohli eventually gained that same aura. “As Virat’s career went on, that became more and more like that for him.”

Sophie Devine to Quit ODIs After 2025 Women’s World Cup

June 17, 2025, 11:00 am

New Zealand’s star all-rounder and skipper Sophie Devine will retire from One-Day Internationals after leading the White Ferns at the 2025 ICC Women’s Cricket World Cup. The 35-year-old confirmed her decision ahead of what will be her final ODI tournament starting September 30.

Sophie Devine To Retire

Devine, who has played 298 international matches for New Zealand, has had a standout career. Since becoming the team’s full-time captain in 2020, she has led them to notable successes, including a bronze medal at the 2022 Birmingham Commonwealth Games and a historic T20 World Cup win last year.

News | ODI captain Sophie Devine will retire from one day internationals at the conclusion of the 2025 ICC Women's Cricket World Cup, and will therefore opt for a casual playing agreement for the 2025-26 season. Story | https://t.co/hpx54eBwqd 📰 pic.twitter.com/9TimJQKXNj
— WHITE FERNS (@WHITE_FERNS) June 16, 2025

A powerful presence on the field, Devine has accumulated 7,421 international runs, including eight centuries in ODIs and one in T20Is, and taken 226 wickets. “It feels like the right time for me to start stepping away,” Devine said via the New Zealand Cricket (NZC) website. “I feel very fortunate to have NZC’s support in finding a solution that means I can still give to the White Ferns. It’s important that everyone knows I’m focused and dedicated to giving this group everything I can before I step away. I’m really excited by where this young group’s going and I’m looking forward to playing my part in the next six to nine months.”

Devine Signs Flexible Playing Contract With NZC

Though Devine is stepping back from ODIs, she will continue contributing to the team in a new way. She will sign a “casual playing agreement” with NZC for the 2025-26 season. This flexible arrangement will allow her to remain available for selected matches and mentoring roles. “Sophie’s given nearly 20 years of service to the White Ferns, and NZC is fully supportive of her quest to find more balance at this stage in her career,” said Liz Green, NZC’s Head of Women’s High Performance. “We’re pleased to be able to reach an agreement that means she can continue to be involved with the White Ferns on a case-by-case basis.” NZC Chief Executive Scott Weenink praised her long-standing impact: “Sophie has been an extraordinary leader and ambassador for the White Ferns. Supporting her move to a casual playing agreement will allow her to continue contributing to the White Ferns environment. Her legacy as one of the game’s greatest all-rounders and her commitment to nurturing the next generation makes this a positive step for both her and the White Ferns.” NZC will announce Devine’s ODI successor ahead of the New Zealand home summer.

‘Play Your Game, Rishabh’: Badani’s Message to Pant Ahead of England Series

June 17, 2025, 7:57 am

Former India cricketer Hemang Badani believes Rishabh Pant should not let his new vice-captaincy role affect the way he plays in the upcoming Test series against England.

According to Badani, India’s head coach Gautam Gambhir should keep the message simple. He said, "Rishabh, tu apna game khel, forget that you are the vice captain of Team India."

Pant to Lead India's New Test Era

Rishabh Pant has officially become part of India’s Test leadership group for the first time. He steps into this position at a crucial moment, as Shubman Gill begins his captaincy stint.

India lost a massive amount of experience recently, with R Ashwin, Rohit Sharma, and Virat Kohli retiring from Test cricket. In total, nearly 300 Tests worth of experience disappeared overnight.

Even so, Pant’s presence gives Indian fans hope. His fearless batting has often rescued India, especially in overseas conditions.

Pant’s Test Credentials Remain Solid

Though he didn’t shine during India’s last tour to Australia, and even had a tough IPL 2025 season with Lucknow Super Giants, Pant remains one of India’s best red-ball batters.

His record speaks for itself — 1681 runs in SENA countries (South Africa, England, New Zealand, Australia) at an average of 37.81, with centuries everywhere except New Zealand.

Badani pointed out that even in just five years, Pant has already played “some of the best knocks by an Indian in overseas conditions.”

Memorable Knock in England

During India’s last Test in England, Pant smashed 146 runs off 111 balls after the team was struggling at 98 for 5. It was his second Test hundred in England, showing his consistency there.

Pant made his international debut in Nottingham seven years ago and hit a six on just his second ball. That aggressive mindset is what makes him special.

Practice Shows Pant is in Rhythm

Leading up to the England series starting June 20, Pant looked sharp in training. At Lord’s, he reportedly dented the stadium roof. In Beckenham, his powerful sixes forced nearby residents to duck for cover.

This form suggests Pant is ready to go full throttle again.

Badani Warns Against Burdening Pant

Badani, who now coaches Delhi Capitals, said he wants to see Pant play freely, without the burden of vice-captaincy slowing him down.

He stated, “I genuinely hope it doesn't change one bit... I don't see any reason why you should try and change that.”

Let Pant Stay Pant

Badani believes Gambhir and the Indian team management must remind Pant to stay true to his style. He stressed that Pant became vice-captain not because he played safe, but because his bold and positive approach delivered results.

He added, “It's important that someone like Gautam Gambhir, the head coach, has a chat with him and speaks to him and says, 'Rishabh tu apna game khel.' Don't think too hard about captaincy, vice captaincy... none of that.”

Pant Likely to Bat at No.5

With senior players gone, changes in India’s batting line-up are certain. But Pant’s position at No.5 seems fixed. Badani feels this spot gives him the chance to put pressure back on bowlers.

He said, “You want to keep the bowling on the mat... rather than keep leaving balls and let them settle down into a good line and length.”

Freedom is Key to Pant’s Success

Badani believes the team management must let Pant play freely. He warned that if Pant is held back, his balance could be disrupted.

However, he added confidently, “He does have the right balance.” So the focus should be on letting him attack when needed and trusting his instincts.

Vinicius Jr Racial Abuse Case Ends with Guilty Verdict for Four Fans

June 17, 2025, 12:22 am

The Madrid Provincial Court passed a guilty sentence to the four supporters who, in 2023, suspended a black inflatable doll, clad in Real Madrid player Vinicius Jr's shirt, from a bridge, staging his hanging, on Monday. One of the defendants has been sentenced to one year and ten months in prison, and the rest to one year and two months in prison. The act was committed hours prior to the Copa del Rey quarter-final match between Real Madrid and Atlético Madrid. The accused also had a huge banner at the site publicly declaring their hatred for Real Madrid, with the message, 'Madrid hates Real.'

Vinicius Jr Targeted: Social Media Evidence and Court Admission

One of the offenders also announced his activities on social networking sites. The club reaffirmed that the defendants accepted their conduct, apologized publicly, and showed remorse. They have all been found guilty of a hate crime as well as another of threatening Vinicius Jr.

Additional Penalties and Restrictions

The defendants will also be asked to pay the fines charged, will be prohibited from practicing education and sports-related professions for three additional years, and have been prohibited from getting near Vinicius Jr. within 1,000 meters or from talking to him in any manner for four years. In addition, the four offenders will be prohibited from attending or entering any football stadium during sporting events for this duration and must undergo a training course in equal treatment and non-discrimination.

Real Madrid Responds to Vinicius Jr Hate Crime Verdict

“This criminal sentence adds to the several already handed down in recent months for racist insults received by Real Madrid CF players at the Zorrilla (Valladolid), Mestalla (Valencia), Son Moix (Palma de Mallorca), and Vallecas (Madrid) stadiums, including on digital forums. In total, fourteen people have now been criminally convicted for racist attacks against our club's players,” read the statement by the club.

Karun Nair Ignored Retirement Advice, Chose Comeback

June 16, 2025, 4:46 pm

Karun Nair returns to India’s Test squad for the England tour starting June 20, making a remarkable comeback after spending eight years out of the national team. The 33-year-old batter, who once scored an unbeaten 303 in only his third Test, recently opened up about the mental and emotional battle he endured during his long absence from international cricket.

Ignoring the Money: Nair's Refusal to Give Up

In a surprising revelation, Nair shared that a well-known Indian cricketer once suggested he retire and focus on earning money through T20 leagues. "I still remember a prominent Indian cricketer calling me and saying you need to retire because the money in these leagues would make me secure. It would have been easy to do but I knew that regardless of the money, I would be kicking myself for giving up that easily," he said in an interview. Despite the tempting advice, Nair chose to stick with his dream of playing for India again. “I was never going to give up on playing for India again. That was just over two years ago and look where we are now,” he added. “Deep down, I knew I was good enough.”

From County Cricket to National Comeback

After going nearly 14 months without playing competitive cricket, Nair found an opportunity with Northamptonshire in English county cricket. “It was next to nothing, but I didn’t care because that was the opportunity I was desperate for,” he recalled. “I went straight to Birmingham, had one net session and the day after, scored 78 at Edgbaston.” Just a week later, he smashed 150 against Surrey at The Oval. “With the happiness involved, it’s my most satisfying innings,” he added, sharing how Rahul Dravid and Sourav Ganguly congratulated him. Nair’s recent domestic success has been phenomenal. He switched from Karnataka to Vidarbha, scoring 690 runs in 10 games, and followed it with 863 runs in nine Ranji Trophy matches, including a century in the final that helped Vidarbha win the title. He also made waves in the Vijay Hazare Trophy with 779 runs in eight innings, including five centuries, leading to his Rs 50 lakh signing by Delhi Capitals in the 2025 IPL auction. “I manifested playing for India,” Nair said. “There was a domestic game where they played the national anthem, and I pictured myself in Indian whites.” Now, that vision has come true.

Johnson Slams Hazlewood for Choosing IPL Over WTC

June 16, 2025, 4:43 pm

Former Aussie fast bowler Mitchell Johnson has taken a swipe at Josh Hazlewood. He did so by choosing to return to the Indian Premier League (IPL) over preparing for Australia’s World Test Championship (WTC) final against South Africa. Australia lost the high-stakes match by five wickets at Lord’s, and Hazlewood’s decision has stirred controversy.

Hazlewood’s IPL Priorities Raise Questions

“We’ve seen concerns about Hazlewood’s fitness in recent years. And, his decision to prioritise returning to the delayed Indian Premier League over his national team preparations raised eyebrows,” Johnson wrote in The West Australian. Hazlewood had helped Royal Challengers Bengaluru clinch their maiden IPL trophy with 22 wickets. After the tournament was suspended due to India-Pakistan border tensions, he briefly returned home. He later rejoined RCB when the league resumed.

Time to Look Beyond the 'Big Four'?

Johnson questioned whether Australia's core bowling group, Mitchell Starc, Pat Cummins, Hazlewood, and Nathan Lyon, should remain untouchable. “Our successful ‘big four’ bowling attack... can’t be taken for granted as a lock going forward either,” he wrote. “If veteran players are sticking around just for the Ashes as a send-off, it does beg the question of whether that’s the right mindset.” He believes it’s time to back hungry fringe players like Sam Konstas, Josh Inglis, and Scott Boland. “They’re eager to prove themselves every time they get a chance,” Johnson said. “I’m not being overly critical of an ageing team... but it’s essential to consider when the right time is to make some tough calls," he added. Steve Smith is nursing a finger injury. Also, Johnson sees the upcoming three-Test series against the West Indies as a chance for the selectors. A chance to begin a gradual transition. He emphasized the need to identify a permanent No. 3 batter. Even arguing that Marnus Labuschagne’s recent form doesn’t justify moving him up again. “Trying to make changes in all top-three batting slots at once would indeed be risky,” Johnson concluded, “and I don’t think the selectors will go that route.”

Tim Paine Supports Khawaja and Labuschagne After WTC Loss

June 16, 2025, 1:27 pm

Former Australian captain Tim Paine has spoken out in support of Usman Khawaja and Marnus Labuschagne, who are facing criticism after a poor showing in the World Test Championship (WTC) final. He insisted that these top-order batters shouldn’t be dropped because of one disappointing match and believes they will bounce back strongly during the upcoming West Indies tour, which begins on June 25.

Struggles in the WTC Final

Australia suffered a heavy loss to South Africa in the WTC final at Lord's, with Khawaja scoring 0 and 6, and Labuschagne managing 17 and 20. The team had reshuffled its top order — Labuschagne opened, Cameron Green came in at number three, and Steve Smith batted at four. This new combination failed, prompting debates over team selection ahead of the three-Test series against West Indies. Meanwhile, young opener Sam Konstas impressed with a stunning debut half-century against India and is now being considered for the squad.

Looking at the Stats

While Khawaja had a rare failure in the final, he had otherwise performed well throughout the WTC 2023-25 cycle, scoring 1,428 runs in 20 matches. His record includes two centuries and six fifties, making him the top scorer for Australia in that period. On the other hand, Labuschagne's form has been inconsistent. He made 974 runs in 20 matches, with just one century and eight fifties, averaging 27.82, a drop that pulled his overall Test average down to 46.19. At 38, Khawaja’s age has also become a point of concern, especially with him turning 39 during the upcoming home Ashes series in December.

Paine Says Australia Must Be Patient

Despite these numbers, Paine remains confident in both players. He told SEN, "They are good players, they are world class." He acknowledged that Steve Smith’s injury will keep him out of the first Test against the West Indies, opening the door for Konstas to step in while Labuschagne moves back down the order. Paine added, "We have heard them say that when they have the spin pitches, Travis Head would slide up and Marnus down."

Eyes on the Ashes

Paine is optimistic about the future, stating, "I see them going to the Windies and playing well and getting ready for a huge Ashes series. Usman and Marnus will play really, really important roles in the Ashes." He criticized how quickly Australia tends to discard players, noting, "We are very quick in this country to move on players, we always want to see if the grass is greener."

Great Players Are Not Easily Replaced

To highlight his point, Paine mentioned David Warner, saying, "Look at Dave Warner - one of our best cricketers - six months before he retired, people said he has got to go (and now) two years down the track, we still have not replaced him." He warned against making rash decisions: "You do not just have a bad Test in England and dump people like Uz and Marnus. They are a huge part of the team for the next year at least. With England coming out here, these high-quality players don't grow on trees. Great players are hard to replace."

Kuldeep Yadav Deletes Fiancée Post Before England Tour

June 16, 2025, 11:29 am

Indian cricketer Kuldeep Yadav briefly uploaded photos on Instagram with his fiancée Vanshika, only to delete the post shortly after. The post came just days after the couple’s engagement on June 4 in Lucknow, a private ceremony attended by close friends and family, including fellow cricketer Rinku Singh.

Kuldeep Yadav Deletes Fiancée's Photo Days After Engagement

Vanshika, who works at LIC, is from Shyam Nagar in Lucknow and is a childhood friend of Kuldeep. Though fans were quick to react with joy when the post appeared, it was taken down almost immediately, leading to speculation about the reason. However, neither Kuldeep nor his team has offered any explanation. The engagement marked a big personal moment for Kuldeep, who is now shifting his focus entirely to cricket. The spinner is gearing up for India’s upcoming Test series in England starting June 20. The couple’s wedding is expected after the tour, likely in November.

Fans Speculate While The Spinner Stays Focused

As India’s only specialist spinner on the England tour, Kuldeep is being eyed as a key figure in the bowling lineup. He has played only one Test match in England so far, where he bowled nine overs. However, with matches scheduled at spin-friendly venues like Birmingham, Lord’s, and The Oval, expectations from him are high. Speaking about the team’s preparations, Kuldeep shared, “The wickets are looking good for spinners. There was help for seamers early on, but spinners got into the game as it progressed.” His words have fueled hopes that he will play a central role in the five-Test series. With senior spinner R Ashwin now retired from Test cricket, Kuldeep also addressed how he’s building his chemistry with all-rounder Ravindra Jadeja. “Playing alongside Jaddu bhai is an honour. I’m learning a lot from him about field placements, tactics, and bowling to specific batters,” he said. Even though the deleted post raised eyebrows, it seems Kuldeep's mind is fully set on his game. Whether or not fans get another glimpse of the couple anytime soon remains to be seen.

India vs Pakistan in Colombo: Women’s World Cup Goes Political

June 16, 2025, 11:15 am

India and Pakistan are set to face each other on October 5 in Colombo during the 2025 ICC Women’s ODI World Cup. Earlier this year, tensions between the two nuclear-armed neighbours reached alarming levels, with both militaries on high alert and diplomatic channels stretched thin.

The stand-off, sparked by cross-border incidents and aggressive political rhetoric, had many fearing a full-scale war. While things have since cooled slightly, relations remain fragile, and sport has once again become an unexpected casualty of geopolitics.

Hybrid Model Keeps Rivals Apart

Due to the political climate, the BCCI and PCB were forced to agree on a “hybrid hosting model” for the World Cup. A compromise that allows Pakistan to play all its matches in neutral Sri Lanka. This means the much-anticipated India vs Pakistan showdown will now take place at a neutral venue in Colombo.

According to the revised format, India’s women’s team, led by Harmanpreet Kaur, will travel to Colombo for the much-anticipated match against Pakistan. It’s a key group-stage game that fans on both sides of the border are watching closely.

The 2025 Women’s ODI World Cup begins on September 30 with India taking on Sri Lanka. The next day, Australia will clash with New Zealand in Indore. The eight teams play in a round-robin format, with the top four moving to the semifinals. The first semifinal will be played on October 29 in either Guwahati or Colombo, depending on whether Pakistan qualifies. The second semifinal is set for October 30 in Bengaluru. The grand final will be held on November 2, either in Bengaluru or Colombo.

India’s Full Fixture List for Women’s World Cup 2025

India’s campaign will begin at home, but the team will also travel to neutral venues. Here are their confirmed fixtures: • Sept 30 vs Sri Lanka – Bengaluru • Oct 5 vs Pakistan – Colombo • Oct 9 vs South Africa – Visakhapatnam • Oct 12 vs Australia – Visakhapatnam • Oct 19 vs England – Indore • Oct 23 vs New Zealand – Guwahati • Oct 26 vs Bangladesh – Bengaluru Despite the challenges, the hybrid model ensures Pakistan's participation while maintaining security and diplomatic balance. The highly anticipated India-Pakistan match will undoubtedly be one of the tournament's biggest draws.

VVS Laxman to Coach Indian Test Squad as Gautam Gambhir Returns to Delhi for Mother’s Treatment, Report

June 16, 2025, 10:32 am

Former India cricketer and current National Cricket Academy (NCA) head VVS Laxman will supervise India’s preparation for the opening Test against England, with head coach Gautam Gambhir temporarily back in India due to a family emergency.

Gambhir Flies Home After Mother Suffers Heart Attack

Gautam Gambhir flew back to India on Friday after his mother, Seema Gambhir, suffered a heart attack and was admitted to the ICU of a hospital in New Delhi. “Gautam’s mother had a heart attack on Wednesday. He and his family left for India on Thursday, and they have reached Delhi," a BCCI source told PTI. “His mother is showing signs of recovery, although she is still in the ICU. In all likelihood, he will be back in the UK before the start of the opening Test (starting June 20) if all goes well." India and England will play the first Test of the five-match series at Headingley in Leeds from June 20 to 24.

Laxman Steps In as Interim Coach

VVS Laxman, who is currently in London ahead of India Under-19’s month-long UK tour, will temporarily step in to guide the senior team. The junior team will play five youth ODIs starting June 27, followed by two youth Tests in Beckenham and Chelmsford in July. Laxman, having prior experience leading India’s squads in Gambhir’s absence, will support the team until the head coach rejoins. In late 2023, Laxman coached a second-string India squad during a T20I series in South Africa and again in July 2024 during a five-match T20I series against Zimbabwe, where Shubman Gill captained the national side for the first time.

Support Staff Filling In During Intra-Squad Match

In the meantime, assistant coach Ryan ten Doeschate is overseeing India’s intra-squad four-day match between India and India A, which began on Friday. He is receiving support from other members of the coaching team, including bowling coach Morne Morkel and batting coach Sitanshu Kotak. Shubman Gill is leading the Indian team, currently staying in the UK, as they prepare for a challenging five-Test series against England.

Mathys Tel Joins Tottenham Hotspur on Long-Term Deal Until 2031

June 16, 2025, 2:52 am

Tottenham Hotspur have finalised the signing of striker Mathys Tel on a permanent contract until 2031, the Premier League club announced on Sunday. Mathys was brought to Hotspur from the Bundesliga team in February on loan for the remainder of the season with an option for making it permanent.

Impactful Loan Spell at Spurs

He came on as a substitute for the club against Liverpool in the Carabao Cup before registering his first start with a strike against Aston Villa in the FA Cup. He netted his first Premier League goal from the spot to inspire a 3-1 victory over Southampton in April. The attack-minded forward played 20 times across all competitions last season, netting 3 goals. Mathys is now playing for France at the 2025 UEFA European Under-21 Championship alongside his Spurs teammate Wilson Odobert.

Bayern Munich Reflects on Tel’s Journey

"Mathys Tel came to FC Bayern as a very young player and mastered his first steps at the top level of European football here," Bayern's head of sport Max Eberl said in a statement. "He was a popular figure in the squad, who always gave his all for the club and the team. The move to Tottenham has turned out to be the right one for his development."

From Rennes to North London

The 20-year-old signed for Bayern Munich from Stade Rennes in 2022 on a four-year deal, and then extended his contract until 2029 in March of last year. He has netted 16 goals in 83 games for the German outfit but has struggled to nail a regular starting place. He is now the first to sign under new manager Thomas Frank, who was signed on Friday after Ange Postecoglou was sacked.

Sachin Tendulkar Urges BCCI, ECB to Honour Pataudi Legacy With Bold Move

June 16, 2025, 2:12 am

Indian cricket team legend Sachin Tendulkar has communicated with both BCCI and England Cricket Board (ECB) administrators regarding maintaining the Pataudi legacy going in the India England Test series, as per a Cricbuzz report. The two cricket boards agreed to title the India-England Test series scheduled to take place the 'Anderson-Tendulkar Trophy' instead of the Pataudi Trophy following ECB's reported decision to retire it. But the move was terribly opposed and even Tendulkar himself has reportedly intervened to save the Pataudi heritage.

Pataudi Link Likely to Be Retained After Intervention by Sachin Tendulkar

According to the report, following the request, it is likely that a medallion in the name of late MAK Pataudi will be presented to the winning captain. “Yes, there is a confirmed plan to retain the Pataudi link in the England-India series," an ECB official told Cricbuzz. Test rubbers earlier between India and England in the UK had been contested for the trophy bearing the name of Iftikhar Ali Khan Pataudi and his son, Mansur Ali Khan Pataudi. The ECB wrote to the Pataudi family in March stating they wished to retire the trophy.

Two Icons: Sachin Tendulkar and James Anderson

One of the greatest players in the history of the game, Sachin Tendulkar is the highest run-scorer in Test cricket with 15,921 runs. The 52-year-old played 200 Tests between 1989 and 2013 and has broken countless records in both Test and ODI formats. Revered for his impeccable technique and mental strength, he is widely regarded as the face of modern Indian cricket. James Anderson, meanwhile, is England's highest wicket-taker in history as well as the most prolific pace bowler in Test cricket with 704 wickets. Known for his mastery of swing and remarkable longevity, Anderson has redefined fast bowling with his ability to thrive across conditions for over two decades. Since hanging his boots in international cricket last summer, the 42-year-old has also been serving as England's bowling consultant and is currently representing Lancashire in county cricket after signing an extension to his contract.

A Shared Legacy on the Field

The two greats shared the playing field for 14 Tests, and Anderson bowled out Tendulkar on nine occasions the maximum by any bowler against the Indian icon. England are the current and last trophy holders of the Pataudi Trophy, who retained it with a 2-2 tie in a series spread over 2021 and 2022 due to the COVID 19 pandemic.

Dale Steyn in Tears After South Africa Win WTC Final: ‘Life Will Go On But…’

June 15, 2025, 9:31 pm

It's difficult to put into words how much the World Test Championship victory would have meant to South Africa, especially the generations of all-time-great cricketers who had passed through the ranks and endured such protracted periods of heartbreak and disappointment. Legends like Dale Steyn, who gave their all but never got the chance to lift an ICC trophy, embodied that unfulfilled dream. To see Kyle Verreynne smash a shot through covers and ascertain that the ICC Test Mace would be returning home to the Rainbow Nation was to assuage the agony of decades of pain, living a dream shared and not fulfilled by so many.

Dale Steyn: A Legend Overcome With Emotion

One such player was Dale Steyn, the all-time great fast bowler who never quite came close to hoisting an ICC trophy. Steyn, performing media responsibilities for Star Sports, was overcome by pure emotion in the aftermath of those winning runs, left almost speechless by what it meant to see his country finally cross that barrier. In a clip posted on the social media accounts of the Star Sports, Steyn is seen grasping for words and attempting to hold back tears, before becoming silent for a long time as the realization of the moment finally set in for him.

A Nation in Tears: Maharaj, Smith and the Shared Sentiment

Steyn was not alone in being the victim of the moment, with Keshav Maharaj also struggling through tears of his own to tell former skipper Graeme Smith just how much it means to the nation to cross the line after so many years of agony, and consistently missing the ultimate triumph.

"Life Will Carry On": Poignant Reflection of Dale Steyn

“What do you do, what do you say? It’s incredible, I’m sitting at home, I’ve got my cap here, I’m extremely proud. I mean, what do you do? I’ll take my son for a walk and life will carry on,” said the fast bowler, lifting up his Proteas Test cap, before falling silent and welling up with emotion following the moment. It is evident how poignant a moment this is considered in South African cricket history. And at the end of it all, it was Aiden Markram the hero with one of South Africa's most celebrated Test centuries, backed by Kagiso Rabada's 9-fer, a player regarded as being Dale Steyn's heir in South Africa's own extensive list of fast bowling legends.

Dale Steyn Predicts 3-2 England Win in Test Series, Challenges Await Gambhir and Shubman Gill

June 15, 2025, 4:26 pm

Ex-South African fast bowler Dale Steyn has supported England to triumph in the forthcoming five-Test series against India, beginning June 20 at Headingley, Leeds. The series will also herald the start of India's campaign for the new World Test Championship (WTC) cycle, but the team arrives on the tour without veterans Virat Kohli, Rohit Sharma, and Ravichandran Ashwin, who retired from Test cricket recently.

Shubman Gill to Lead a Young Indian Squad

There will be a new leadership arrangement, with Shubman Gill leading the team, and wicketkeeper-batter Rishabh Pant as the vice-captain. There are also 18 youngsters in the Indian team, including Sai Sudharsan, Karun Nair, and Abhimanyu Easwaran, marking a transition period for India in the red-ball cricket format. Ajit Agarkar, the chairman of selectors, has already made it clear that pace spearhead Jasprit Bumrah will not appear in all five Tests. He will only play three, as the team manages his workload during the long series quite carefully.

Steyn Forecasts a Closely-Fought Series

Talking to JioHotstar, Steyn added that he is hopeful all five games will yield results and tipped England for a 3-2 win. "All games will be tight. But all will have a result. I think it will be 3-2 in favor of England. There will be a result in every Test match. There will be no run away win for either team, all five games will be very tight," he said. England, with Brendon McCullum's risk-taking captaincy, have taken 15 of their last 20 Tests at home. Of these, only one match was drawn, a reflection of their big-risk 'Bazball' philosophy where batters have been scoring from the opening ball. But this aggressive strategy has so far not produced predictable success elsewhere in England.

India A vs India: Warm-Up Match Underway

As preparation, the Indian side is in the middle of an intra-squad warm-up game against India A at Beckenham. In their first innings, India scored 459 runs with fifties from captain Shubman Gill and KL Rahul on Day 1. On the second day, pace ace Jasprit Bumrah couldn't take a wicket, while Mohammed Siraj and Prasidh Krishna each took two wickets. Sarfaraz Khan stole the show with a scorching 101 off only 76 balls, hitting 15 fours and 2 sixes before retiring on a bouncer. India A was 299/6 by stumps on Day 2, with Shardul Thakur and Ishan Kishan stranded at the crease. Sai Sudharsan and Abhimanyu Easwaran too were firm, though neither of them could go on to make big scores from their starts.

AB de Villiers Says Virat Kohli Gave Him Silent Treatment for Months—Here’s Why

June 15, 2025, 3:44 pm

Former South African cricketer AB de Villiers revealed that Virat Kohli did not speak to him for several months, possibly due to a personal blunder. In a recent conversation with Cricket.com, de Villiers hinted that Kohli was upset after he accidentally shared news about Anushka Sharma’s pregnancy during a livestream last year.

At the time, de Villiers confirmed that the couple was expecting their second child, shortly after Kohli took a break from international cricket, opting out of India’s home Test series against England. However, he later admitted the news was incorrect. "I did have a bit of a footfall not too long ago when they were expecting their second child," he said.

The Silence Breaks After IPL 2025 Triumph

Despite the misstep, de Villiers and Kohli recently reunited following Royal Challengers Bengaluru’s historic first IPL title win earlier this month. The duo embraced after the final victory over Punjab Kings, marking a significant moment for the franchise’s long-time stalwarts.

De Villiers shared, "He's been in touch with me over the last six months. Thank goodness! I was very relieved when he started talking to me again."

Kohli Leaned on ABD During Tough Phase

The South African legend also revealed that Kohli sought his advice during a challenging period, coinciding with his retirement from Test cricket. "We all know he went through a bit of a patch and sort of wanted to bounce a few ideas off me," de Villiers said.

He added that they spoke about how to navigate personal and professional struggles. “There are a lot of things that weigh on you, and so I shared with him from the heart... I'm happy he is still around playing cricket and that decision comes from the heart and I support him 100 per cent with that.”

Their recent camaraderie appears to have restored a cherished friendship that had gone cold, reminding fans of their iconic bond on and off the field.

Max Verstappen Slams “Childish” Race Ban Speculation

June 15, 2025, 3:38 pm

Red Bull’s Max Verstappen has hit back at media chatter regarding his potential race ban due to accumulating penalty points on his FIA Super Licence. With 11 points on his record—just one shy of the 12-point limit that triggers a one-race suspension—the Dutch driver is under pressure to keep it clean at both the Canadian and Austrian Grands Prix.

Max Verstappen Furious Over Race Ban

Addressing the situation during the press conference ahead of the Canadian GP, Verstappen didn’t mince words. “I don’t need to hear it again, it’s really p****** me off,” he said. “You’re speaking about it on Thursday… It’s such a waste of time. It’s very childish. That’s why I also don’t want to say too much because it’s really annoying, this world that we live in.” Verstappen's recent incident with Mercedes driver George Russell at a previous race cost him three license points, pushing him dangerously close to a ban. Despite the mounting tension, Verstappen made it clear that his driving style would remain unchanged. “I’m not going to race any differently, there’s no reason for me to do that,” he stated.

Russell Jokes About Points

Russell, who edged Verstappen by just 0.16 seconds to grab pole position for Sunday’s race, appeared more relaxed about the situation. He joked about having “a few more points on my licence to play with,” adding, “We’re mates, so it’s all good.” Russell also commented on Verstappen’s attitude, suggesting the Red Bull driver wouldn’t be afraid to push limits. “He’s obviously got more to lose than I have but he’ll probably try and prove a point that he’s not scared of these penalty points,” Russell said. Looking ahead to the race, Russell added, “If I make a good start and I’m leading by Turn 1 and if we’re the quickest, in theory you should drive off. But I know it’s not going to be as simple as that. But no, I’m not concerned about it.” Saturday’s qualifying saw Russell take pole, followed by Verstappen and McLaren’s Oscar Piastri, who completed the top three.

13-Year-Old Beats World No.2 Hikaru Nakamura at World Blitz Team Championship

June 15, 2025, 1:42 pm

World No.2 Hikaru Nakamura faced a surprising defeat on the first day of the 2025 World Blitz Team Championship, falling to 13-year-old International Master Khagan Ahmad. Despite Nakamura's strong showing—winning six of his games and helping top-seeded WR Chess win all 12 matches—Ahmad delivered the only upset in the American Grandmaster’s otherwise flawless day.

Ahmad, representing Turkish Airlines Sports Club and holding a FIDE rating of 2232, completed a hat-trick with his win over Nakamura and finished the day with an impressive streak of nine consecutive victories.

Fans react to Nakamura's shocking defeat

The upset quickly gained traction on social media, particularly after FIDE shared the clip on X (formerly Twitter). Fans expressed a mix of amazement and humour at the result. One chess enthusiast remarked, “Chess humbles us all,” while another commented, “Hikaru will soon start commenting about the quality of Blitz and why it doesn’t make sense to play it anymore.”

https://twitter.com/FIDE_chess/status/1933933535854792920

Another user wrote, “Yess! Hikaru has such a bloated ego and is a cheap braggart. So glad a kid put a checkmate to it.”

WR Chess dominates with Duda leading the charge

Despite Nakamura’s solitary loss, WR Chess remained dominant. Grandmaster Jan-Krzysztof Duda emerged as the day’s top performer across all 53 teams, finishing with a staggering score of 11.5/12. Other standout performances included Sarbartho Mani from Team Freedom, GM Yagiz Kaan Erdogmus of Generation XYZA, and India’s GM Arjun Erigaisi from MGD1—each registering unbeaten 11/12 scores.

Additionally, KazChess duo GM Andrey Esipenko and Islam Alten also recorded strong performances, scoring 11/12 each, though both dropped one game.

MGD1 and Erigaisi top Pool D for India

India’s MGD1 team, led by GM Arjun Erigaisi, finished on top of Pool D, winning all 12 of their matches on Day 1. Erigaisi led from the front with a brilliant 11/12 performance. He was well-supported by IM Stavroula Tsolakidou, who scored 10.5/13, and GM Leon Luke Mendonca, who finished with an impressive 9.5/10.

This commanding team performance helped MGD1 secure a place in Sunday’s 16-team knockout stage, a shift from the 2024 edition where the entire tournament concluded in a single day.

Knockout stage promises high drama

With most top teams successfully qualifying for the knockout rounds, the upcoming Sunday phase is expected to witness fierce competition. While WR Chess continues to look unstoppable, all eyes will be on young Khagan Ahmad and rising stars like Erigaisi, who have turned heads with their commanding performances.

Temba Bavuma Slams Australia’s ‘Choke’ Jibe After WTC Win: ‘We could hear them while batting…’

July 9, 2025, 12:19 pm

South Africa has struggled for years to win big cricket titles. Although they often reached the final stages, they never secured the trophy. However, that changed when Temba Bavuma and Aiden Markram led the team to chase down 282 runs at Lord’s. As a result, the victory turned them into national heroes.

Australia Tested South Africa’s Nerves

Australia brought a strong squad and a sharp mindset. Still, South Africa had to battle their own fears. Moreover, the Australian players tried to trigger those doubts during the game.

“While we were batting we could hear the Aussies using that dreaded word: choke,” said Bavuma.
He added, “We came in with a lot of belief and a lot of doubters. We got ourselves into the final, there were doubters as to the route we took. This win squashes that. Here’s an opportunity for us as a nation, divided as we are, to unite.”

The Win Brings Closure to Past Losses

Earlier in 2024, South Africa lost the T20 World Cup final to India from a strong position. Additionally, they suffered a painful defeat against Australia in the 1999 World Cup semifinal, also played in England. This time, they got the revenge they had waited decades for.

Bavuma said the victory gave the country a reason to smile.
“As a country, it’s a chance for us to rejoice in something, to forget about our issues and really come together. I hope it inspires and continues to inspire our country. For this group of players, there were a lot of doubters but the way we played would have wiped all of that out.”

Markram Seals the Win and the Past

Aiden Markram stood out with the only century of the match. Because of his performance, he won the Player of the Match award. Furthermore, he said this win would help the team move on from the painful label they carried for years.

“It’ll be great to not have to hear that again. To have got the job done and to get rid of that is quite a big thing for this team. All the questions that have been asked in the past have now been answered,” said Markram.

Kagiso Rabada Slams ‘Weak Opposition’ Claims After WTC Triumph: ‘Rubbish!’

June 14, 2025, 11:36 pm

The history of South African fast bowling is astonishing, tracing several generations through the likes of Allan Donald, Makhaya Ntini, Dale Steyn and in recent times, Kagiso Rabada. Rabada did what no one in his lineage has managed to do before him, claiming an elite ICC trophy, spearheading South Africa's campaign at Lord's when they defeated Australia to claim the World Test Championship.

Match-Winning Brilliance of Kagiso Rabada at Lord’s

In the final itself, Rabada was the star man, grabbing 5 wickets in the first innings and adding 4 more in the second, the aftermath of a controversial month for the star man, this was a statement game, making history for his team. In the aftermath of the victory, Rabada realized how crucial the victory meant for the team but also wasn't afraid of dishing it back out to their detractors, enumerating that South Africa had accomplished the peak of Test cricket in spite of having constant naysayers and doubters who would knock down their achievement.

Kagiso Rabada Reflects on the Journey and the Win

“I can’t describe in words how it feels at the moment. Obviously extremely happy, throughout this entire season we’ve played really well, we’ve worked really hard. I think we deserve to get into this position,” said Rabada on his on-field interview. “People were saying we weren’t playing good enough opposition, but I think that’s rubbish. We came here and we played the best team. Australia have been magnificent all season, and we had to be on our A-game to beat them,” said the 30-year-old, who was their leader with the ball as he finished with figures of 9-110, bowling his heart out throughout. South Africa entered the match as underdogs, after receiving a relatively easy route to the WTC Final. Even so, they had to play their best cricket on the biggest stage to win the trophy something the team had failed to achieve for 27 long years.

An Unbeaten Run Culminates in Glory

South Africa’s winning streak continued with this victory at Lord’s. They remained unbeaten in their last four series, spanning eight Test matches. The South African cricket board has often highlighted how the team gets fewer marquee series against the 'big three' nations. At the same time, they have faced criticism for not encountering strong opposition on their path to the final. Having reached the final, it did not matter to Temba Bavuma and his troops, who presented a brilliant performance to continue to fight back and remain alive, seizing the bull by the horns and concluding a memorable, historic Test win.

South Africa Breaks ICC Trophy Drought, Beats Australia to Win WTC Final at Lord’s

June 14, 2025, 6:16 pm

The "chokers" label that plagued South African cricket for almost three decades was buried at last at Lord's on Saturday. South Africa beat Australia by five wickets to secure the 2025 ICC World Test Championship Final, their first global trophy since the 1998 ICC Knockout Trophy. Temba Bavuma's team came out on top of pressure, injury, and a world-class Australian attack to run down 282 in the fourth innings. Aiden Markram spearheaded the effort with a magnificent 136, ably aided by a gutsy 66 from Bavuma. Their unlikely partnership, forged in the fire of determination and resolve, tamed the much-dreaded quartet of Pat Cummins, Mitchell Starc, Josh Hazlewood, and Nathan Lyon.

South Africa: A Long-Awaited Triumph

This win puts an end to South Africa's agonizing record of close calls in ICC tournaments, including semi-final losses in the 1999, 2007, 2015, and 2023 World Cups. It also mellows the disappointment of the 2024 T20 World Cup final defeat against India. South Africa last experienced ICC success 27 years ago. In 2025, they broke along with RCB and other teams the long title droughts, demonstrating this is a year of redemption for cricket.

How the Match Unfolded

Once Bavuma had won the toss and chosen to bowl on overcast London weather, Kagiso Rabada tore through the Australian side, claiming vital wickets to leave them bowled out for 212. Steve Smith's (66) and Beau Webster's (72) half-centuries provided the Aussies with some dignity. South Africa struggled with the bat in reply. Pat Cummins bowled a six-wicket masterclass, leaving the Proteas bowled out for only 138 and handing Australia a 74-run advantage. The momentum shifted once more in the third innings. Rabada, Marco Jansen, and Lungi Ngidi tore through Australia's top and middle order, leaving them at 73/7. Mitchell Starc (58*) remained unbeaten, establishing precious partnerships with Alex Carey and Josh Hazlewood. Mitchell Starc and Josh Hazlewood added 59 runs in the last wicket to see Australia through to 207, making a target of 282.

Proteas Seal the Win on Day 4

Pursuing the aggregate, South Africa lost early wickets, Starc sending Ryan Rickelton and Wiaan Mulder back. Markram later steadied the innings with a patient century. Bavuma, hampered by a hamstring injury, showed incredible bravery as he hit loose balls to the boundary and refused to walk off injured. South Africa entered Day 4 needing 69 runs with eight wickets in hand. Bavuma (66) and Tristan Stubbs (8) fell to Cummins and Starc, but Markram and David Bedingham (21*) stayed firm, guiding the Proteas to a five-wicket win in the first session of Day 4. As the winning run was hit, the South African dressing room exploded. The crowd at Lord's witnessed history as the Proteas, often the underdogs of world cricket, finally held their heads high.

Cricket Law Update: ICC Bans ‘Bunny Hop’ Boundary Catches in Major Rule Change

June 14, 2025, 1:39 pm

The International Cricket Council (ICC), in consultation with the Marylebone Cricket Club (MCC), has introduced a major modification of cricket laws — banning the now-infamous 'bunny hop' boundary catches. This revision will be included in ICC's playing conditions from June 17, 2025, while the MCC's governing laws will add the change from October 2026.

Why the Bunny Hop Catch Is Now Illegal

The change in law has a direct bearing on fielding methods in which players leap over beyond the boundary mark and touch the ball in mid-air before re-entering the field to effect the catch. While breathtaking, such dismissals — as pulled by Michael Neser in BBL 2023 and Tom Banton (with a contribution from Matt Renshaw) in 2020 — will be deemed illegal as soon as the new law is enforced. In an MCC note to member boards, it is said, "While the current law saw some spectacular fielding moments, it also saw some unorthodox-looking catches that, to most of the cricketing public, are considered unfair."

Neser's Catch Prompted Debate

The MCC used Neser's questionable dismissal of Jordan Silk, explaining how he "bunny hopped" over the rope before finishing the catch inside. While within the law as it stood, the action "seemed like the fielder had — quite literally — overstepped," the note said. Those instances raised questions among supporters and insiders, leading to a review of Law 19.5.2, which hadn't been updated since 2010.

What the New Law Says

Under the new phrasing, any fielder who makes a second touch of the ball having leaped from outside the rope must be grounded inside the area of play before any subsequent involvement in the delivery. Otherwise, a boundary will be given. MCC has come up with a new terminology where 'bunny hop' completely outside the boundary is eliminated," the note states. "But such catches where the fielder shoves the ball up from within the boundary, moves outside and then scoops inside to catch the ball, are allowed. That is, the fielder is only given a single opportunity of touching the ball in mid-air from airborne leaps outside the rope. After that point, all future actions need to take place within the playing field.

Rule Also Affects Relay Catches

The new rule will also be applied to relay catches. When a fielder deflects the ball in mid-air when out of the rope and does not get back in before the catch is made — even by another player — the attempt will be considered a boundary. "Even if the ball is deflected — to another fielder or within the field of play — if the fielder goes beyond the boundary, or later steps over it, then a boundary will be run," explained the MCC. They added, "To clarify, that is one opportunity, and only one opportunity, for the fielder to make contact with the ball after leaping from beyond the boundary. Once that is passed, the boundary is a solid line."

When Will the New Rule Take Effect?

The updated boundary rule will be enforced from June 17, 2025, coinciding with the start of the new World Test Championship (WTC) cycle — beginning with the Sri Lanka vs Bangladesh Test in Galle. The MCC will formally include the rule in its Laws of Cricket from October 2026. This overhaul aims to eliminate ambiguity and preserve fairness in fielding efforts near the boundary. The ICC and MCC have been firm in rejecting the contentious 'bunny hop' method of catches at the boundary, more bringing cricket rules into line with the public's idea of fairness. Admiration for the athleticism involved was tempered by the updated law: the boundary is now a hard line — literally and according to law.

WTC Final 2025: Markram Scores Historic Hundred

June 14, 2025, 11:07 am

Aiden Markram was the difference at Lord’s on Friday, scoring an unbeaten 102* in the WTC Final 2025 against Australia. With this remarkable knock, he became the first South African to hit a century in an ICC final. He put his team in a great spot against the Aussies. Markram's career-defining knock will be remembered by Proteas fans all across.

Markram's Century at Lord’s Marks New Era for Proteas

Left-arm spinner Keshav Maharaj praised Markram’s special knock and described him as a “big-match player” in a post-day interview. “I saw a different sort of desire and focus in Aiden’s eyes today when he came off the field. I think he wanted to rectify the mistake that he made in the first innings,” Maharaj said. “Kudos to him to put that into place. He's a big match player and big players rise up to the moment and rectify their mistakes very quickly. There's no better fitting moment for him to get a Test hundred here at Lord's in a final against probably a team that I don't think they've ever lost a final,” he added. Markram’s ton places him alongside legends like Jacques Kallis (113* vs Sri Lanka, 1998 ICC Knockout), Herschelle Gibbs (116* vs India, CT 2002), and David Miller (101 vs Australia, WC 2023) — making him only the fourth South African to hit a century in ICC knockout matches.

Bavuma’s Grit In WTC Final 2025

Captain Temba Bavuma also showed remarkable determination. He was playing with a hamstring injury to score 65* in a crucial 143-run stand with Markram. “He had a little bit of a niggle, but the warrior and fighter that he is was there with Aidan to support it. It was amazing to hear how they complemented each other when they came off at the tea break. Just hearing about how they're going to go about their business and understanding that obviously Temba can't run at full tilt, but Aiden embraced that,” Maharaj said. With South Africa closing in on a major victory, this partnership may go down as one of the finest in their cricketing history.

Matheus Cunha Joins Manchester United, Says “This Is My Dream Club”

June 14, 2025, 4:14 am

Matheus Cunha insists he is committed to steering Manchester United back on track from their worst top-flight season in 51 years after signing as the club's first marquee transfer signing of the window. The 20-time English champions are in the midst of a rebuild under Ruben Amorim following a 15th-place Premier League finish and Europa League final defeat to fellow strugglers Tottenham. Bilbao defeat cost them Champions League qualification, so United will go through a first season without European football since 2014/15. But the Red Devils' problems failed to put off Brazil international Cunha, who finalized his £62.5 million ($85 million) move from Wolves on Thursday.

Dream Move to Manchester United

"It is the most common phrase that you can say at this moment, but this is the dream come true," the 26-year-old told MUTV. "Maybe outside, I think maybe my decision, they don't understand. But when you have always dreamed to play here, it's easier to pick this decision. "For me, no one else is like United. Of course, I know it's been a hard season for everyone. I think my decision shows what this club is for me and what I believe this club can be. "And, of course, I'll do everything that I can to manage this inside of me, to play for my dream team and put my dream team to win."

Matheus Cunha Inspired by United Legends

Cunha grew up following United and talked of his respect for Wayne Rooney and many other players from the victorious 2008 Champions League team. The Red Devils have fallen out of the elite of Europe in the past few years but the striker has big dreams. "I don't think we have one player who comes here and then doesn't think about the glory days in Man United," Cunha said. "To remember all the times that they win the Premier League, how many titles it was, and of course to qualify for the Champions League. This is what I think about United, you know to put this club on top. "Then what I can do is everything to show them I'm here to help the team, to conquer these kind of things."

Proven Record and Future Promise of Matheus Cunha

Cunha netted 17 goals across all competitions for Wolves in the previous season, claiming the Premier League side's players' player of the year award. He will bring his predatory skills and creative flair to a United side that underachieved throughout this season. His national team qualified for the World Cup this week earlier when he provided the lone assist for Vinicius Junior in a 1-0 victory over Paraguay.

Aiden Markram Becomes Only Third Batter to Score a Hundred in WTC Final

June 14, 2025, 12:14 am

South Africa's Aiden Markram stepped up in the World Test Championship final against Australia, scoring a century in the last match at Lord's on Friday, June 13. Markram played a nearly flawless innings, becoming the first-ever WTC Final centurion from South Africa.

Aiden Markram Joins Elite Company in WTC Final History

Markram matched Steve Smith and Travis Head in the record of making a hundred in the WTC Final, as he assisted South Africa take a lead in the run-chase of 282. The right-handed batsman stood at the crease to open the innings for South Africa and shared a century stand with Temba Bavuma, setting the challengers in the best possible position to claim the final Test match. Markram completed his milestone off 155 balls, which was his 8th in Test cricket.

Hundreds in WTC Final

Travis Head: 163 off 174 balls, vs India 2023
Steve Smith: 121 off 268 balls, vs India 2023
Aiden Markram: 102* off 159 balls, vs Australia 2025

Given a challenge of 282 runs, which has been achieved at the Lord's only twice in history, Markram took advantage of the sunny weather and retaliated against the Australian pacers. 28 wickets had tumbled on the initial two days of the Test match, which indicated that batting would be challenging on the Lord's surface. But Markram went against the odds on Friday, and batted with remarkable accuracy, becoming the first-ever South African to register WTC Final century.

Bavuma’s Steady Support and Near-Miss Moments

Temba Bavuma also played a sensational knock and remained unbeaten on 62 runs. He held one end while Markram completed his century at the other.

Both batters played risk-free cricket. They focused on keeping the ball on the ground and avoided unnecessary shots.

Temba Bavuma survived an early chance on 2. He later offered another opportunity to Sam Konstas at deep mid-wicket after reaching his fifty.

Aiden Markram, on the other hand, batted with precision. He made sure to convert every scoring chance and stayed in control throughout.

Steve Smith Suffers Finger Dislocation, Taken to Hospital for X-ray

June 13, 2025, 11:43 pm

Australia have been dealt a severe setback when star batsman Steve Smith was taken for X-ray at a local hospital after he suffered a compound dislocation in his right little finger during Day Three's play of the ICC World Test Championship final against South Africa at the Lord's on Friday. Steve Smith was in close at wide first slip with a helmet in hand during the 20th over when South Africa captain Temba Bavuma, on two, edged one to the cordon off left-arm pacer Mitchell Starc, and the batter couldn't hold on to it, as he didn't get much time to judge it.

Multiple Substitutions After Steve Smith Injury

Soon, Smith, who was located around 14 metres from the stumps, walked off the field, with teenage opening batsman Sam Konstas replacing him as a substitute fielder. But even Konstas had to receive medical attention after a few overs and was replaced by substitute fielder, left-arm spinner Matthew Kuhnemann on the field. Steve Smith didn't come back to the field in the post-tea session after suffering the big blow, with Cricket Australia (CA) saying that the right-handed batter ‘suffered a compound dislocation of his right little finger'. "He was assessed by Australian team medical staff at the ground and taken to the hospital for X-ray and further treatment," added CA.

Smith’s Injury a Blow Ahead of West Indies Tour

The dislocation renders Smith a huge uncertainty for appearing in their Test tour of the West Indies beginning in ten days' time. The only respite for Australia, the present World Test Championship champions, is that Australia have completed all their batting tasks, with Smith scoring 66 and 13 respectively. South Africa are pursuing a daunting 282 after Australia was able to score 207 in the second innings due to Mitchell Starc's rearguard contribution of 58 and his combining with Josh Hazlewood for a 59-run last-wicket stand.

Markram Anchors South Africa's Chase

Aiden Markram kept one end steady to remain unbeaten on 102 off 159 deliveries as South Africa moved to 213/3 in 56 overs in their second innings, needing just 69 more runs to seal a memorable victory. South Africa would be hoping skipper Temba Bavuma is fine after being in serious pain post-tweaking his hamstring, ten minutes before the tea break. Bavuma managed to walk off at 11 not out, but an assessment in the break determined he could resume his innings in the final session. He returned to bat and batted out the day, remaining unbeaten on 65 off 121 balls.

Gautam Gambhir’s Unexpected Exit From England Sparks Speculation

June 13, 2025, 9:32 pm

Team India head coach Gautam Gambhir is coming back home from England as his mother is being kept in ICU, reports news agency PTI. Gambhir had gone to England prior to the senior team members to observe the manner in which the junior team (India A) performs against England Lions in the 2-match unofficial Test series. On Friday, when India was scheduled to play an intra-squad match for the series, the news agency reported that Gambhir was coming back to India because of a family emergency. Gambhir had previously returned home from Australia during the Border-Gavaskar Trophy because of such a family issue.

Reason for Sudden Departure of Gautam Gambhir

The report added Gambhir had to rush back to take care of his mother, who had a heart attack and is currently in ICU at a New Delhi hospital. In Gambhir's absence, assistant coach Ryan ten Doeschate will have the team's charge during the four-day intra-squad match between India and India A, starting here on Friday. "Gautam's mother had a heart attack on Wednesday. He and his family left for India on Thursday and they have reached Delhi," news agency PTI quoted sources as saying on Friday. "Gautam's mother had a heart attack on Wednesday. He and his family left for India on Thursday and they have reached Delhi," the BCCI source informed. He will be supported by other coaching personnel like bowling coach Morne Morkel and batting coach Sitanshu Kotak.

Expected Return of Gautam Gambhir Before England Test Series

Gambhir is likely to be back in England in a week's time if things go according to plan at home. "His mother is showing signs of recovery although she is still in the ICU. In all likelihood, he will be back in the UK before the start of the opening Test (starting June 20) if all goes well.”

India’s Test Squad for England Series

India's Test team for England series: Shubman Gill (c), Rishabh Pant (vc), Yashasvi Jaiswal, KL Rahul, Sai Sudharsan, Abhimanyu Easwaran, Karun Nair, Nitish Reddy, Ravindra Jadeja, Dhruv Jurel, Washington Sundar, Shardul Thakur, Jasprit Bumrah, Mohammed Siraj, Prasidh Krishna, Akash Deep, Arshdeep Singh, Kuldeep Yadav.

England’s Squad for First Test Against India

England team for first Test against India: Shoaib Bashir, Jacob Bethell, Harry Brook, Brydon Carse, Sam Cook, Zak Crawley, Ben Duckett, Jamie Overton, Ollie Pope, Joe Root, Jamie Smith (wk), Ben Stokes (capt), Josh Tongue, Chris Woakes.

Indian Cricket Team Mourns Ahmedabad Tragedy with On-Field Tribute

June 13, 2025, 5:46 pm

As part of their build-up to the forthcoming five-Test series against England, India's cricket team played an intra-squad match in Beckenham. The team honored the victims of the tragic Ahmedabad plane crash before the commencement of play on Friday, June 13. In a rare moment of dignity before the match, Indian players and officials sported black armbands and paid their respects with a minute's silence to remember those who were killed in the tragic accident. More than 200 people were reported killed in the ghastly plane crash in Ahmedabad on Thursday afternoon. The Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI) posted pictures of the tribute on social media. On X, the BCCI wrote, "Players and members of support staff playing in the intra-squad game at Beckenham are wearing black armbands. A minute's silence was also taken today to honor the victims of the Ahmedabad plane crash, as a gesture of respect for the deceased and support with the bereaved families."

The players and members of support staff involved in the intra-squad game in Beckenham are wearing black armbands.
A minute's silence was also observed today to pay homage to the victims of the Ahmedabad plane crash, as a mark of respect for the lives lost and solidarity with… pic.twitter.com/u364pNdGyu — BCCI (@BCCI) June 13, 2025

In the future, the India-England Test series will start on June 20 at Headingley in Leeds. The other matches will be conducted in Birmingham, Lord's, Manchester, and The Oval. The series will also see a fresh chapter in Indian Test cricket, with Shubman Gill leading the team. Punjab's 25-year-old right-hand batter will be making his debut as India's Test captain at Headingley and will be the 37th player to do so. He took over the captaincy after Rohit Sharma abruptly retired from Test cricket on May 7. While Rohit has walked away from red-ball cricket, he will remain the captain of the ODI team. India announced its tour squad for the England tour on May 24, with a combination of old and new faces. Karun Nair, who has been out for over eight years, has returned to the Test side, while Shardul Thakur and Kuldeep Yadav have also been brought back. Left-handed batsman B Sai Sudharsan of Tamil Nadu and left-arm seamer Arshdeep Singh of Punjab are among the debutants.

Team India Coach Gautam Gambhir Flies Home Midway Through England Tour — Here’s Why

June 13, 2025, 4:45 pm

Team India’s head coach Gautam Gambhir has returned home from England due to a family emergency, news agency ANI reported. Gambhir, who had flown to the UK earlier to oversee India A’s progress against England Lions in an unofficial two-match Test series, had to abruptly cut his trip short just before a scheduled intra-squad match.

"Team India's head coach, Gautam Gambhir, is returning to India from England due to a family emergency," ANI quoted sources as saying on Friday.

Gambhir had travelled ahead of the main squad to monitor preparations for India’s upcoming five-match Test tour of England, beginning June 20 at Headingley, Leeds. The former opener previously flew home during the Border-Gavaskar Trophy for a similar family matter.

Assistant coaching staff takes over intra-squad preparations

With Gambhir temporarily unavailable, assistant coach Ryan ten Doeschate has taken charge of the team for the four-day intra-squad fixture between India and India A. Supporting ten Doeschate are other senior coaching members, including bowling coach Morne Morkel and batting coach Sitanshu Kotak.

Gambhir is expected to return to England within a week, well before the start of the Test series.

India’s Test journey begins post-Rohit and Kohli era

The England tour comes at a critical juncture for Indian cricket. With veterans Rohit Sharma and Virat Kohli retiring from the Test format last month, the squad is undergoing a generational transition. The Shubman Gill-led team is expected to face tough conditions in England without the experience of its long-time batting stalwarts.

India will rely heavily on young talents like Yashasvi Jaiswal, Rishabh Pant, and Sai Sudharsan to perform under pressure in English conditions.

The five-match Test series will take place between June and August 2025, with fixtures scheduled at Headingley (Leeds), Edgbaston (Birmingham), Lord’s and The Oval (London), and Old Trafford (Manchester).

Test squads for both sides announced

India’s squad:

Shubman Gill (c), Rishabh Pant (vc), Yashasvi Jaiswal, KL Rahul, Sai Sudharsan, Abhimanyu Easwaran, Karun Nair, Nitish Reddy, Ravindra Jadeja, Dhruv Jurel, Washington Sundar, Shardul Thakur, Jasprit Bumrah, Mohammed Siraj, Prasidh Krishna, Akash Deep, Arshdeep Singh, Kuldeep Yadav.

England’s squad for first Test:

Shoaib Bashir, Jacob Bethell, Harry Brook, Brydon Carse, Sam Cook, Zak Crawley, Ben Duckett, Jamie Overton, Ollie Pope, Joe Root, Jamie Smith (wk), Ben Stokes (capt), Josh Tongue, Chris Woakes.

“You Talk a Lot,” Messi Explodes at James Rodriguez Over Copa America | Watch

June 13, 2025, 3:25 pm

Tensions ran high as Argentina drew 1-1 with Colombia during their World Cup qualifier, but the real drama unfolded off the ball. A heated exchange between Lionel Messi and James Rodriguez stole the spotlight after the Colombian star's recent remarks about the 2024 Copa America final stirred up controversy. James Rodriguez has stayed quiet on the whole controversy, seeing as Lionel Messi is a bigger global star and his legendary status protects him from these tiny squabbles on the field.

Lionel Messi Confronts James Rodriguez

Argentina’s Enzo Fernandez was sent off during the match, but it was Messi’s confrontation with Rodriguez that got everyone talking. According to reports, Messi took issue with comments Rodriguez made about the Copa America final, where Colombia lost to Argentina. Rodriguez had said, “We had an excellent Copa America. Obviously, we wanted the title, but we didn’t win the Copa America because of external things, I think. The referee favoured Argentina. He didn’t give us penalties. For me, a clear one.” During the game, Messi didn’t hold back. He told Rodriguez directly, “You said they helped us in the final. You talk a lot.” In response, Rodriguez denied the statement, saying, “I didn’t say anything.”

🔥🗣 "VOS DIJISTE QUE NOS HABÍAN AYUDADO EN LA FINAL, HABLÁS MUCHO”
El tenso cruce entre Lionel Messi y James Rodríguez. #EliminatoriasEnTyCSports pic.twitter.com/QGexwSrQm6 — TyC Sports (@TyCSports) June 11, 2025

When asked about the clash after the game, Messi didn’t reveal much. Both simply said, “What stays on the field, stays on the field.” After the Match, James took to X and made a post saying, "Nada nos va detener, más cerca del objetivo. (Nothing will stop us, closer to the goal.)" referencing to his team drawing against Argentina and his on-field clah with Messi.

Nada nos va detener, más cerca del objetivo. 🇨🇴 pic.twitter.com/5ipUJqMkLy
— James Rodríguez (@jamesdrodriguez) June 11, 2025

Rodriguez Named Player of the Tournament

Despite the tension, Rodriguez was named Player of the Tournament for his strong performances throughout the Copa America. While Colombia impressed many fans, they ultimately fell short in the final, allowing Messi and his team to add another trophy to their recent World Cup glory. Rodriguez’s suggestion that the match was unfairly influenced by referees didn’t sit well with Messi. The confrontation showed that the Argentine captain takes accusations against his team seriously, especially when it concerns a major tournament win. Lionel Messi is now expected to return to Inter Miami, where he’ll compete in the Club World Cup. The MLS side will face Egyptian club Al-Ahly on June 14 at the Hard Rock Stadium.

Nepal and West Indies set to play first bilateral T20I series in September

June 13, 2025, 1:39 pm

In a landmark move, Nepal will host the West Indies for a three-match T20I series this September in Sharjah. Although the games will take place at a neutral venue, Nepal is officially designated as the host.

First-Ever Bilateral Series Between the Two Teams

This series marks the first bilateral encounter between Nepal and the West Indies. Cricket West Indies (CWI) hailed the event as historic and emphasized its goal of supporting emerging cricketing nations.

CWI Pledges Support for Global Cricket Growth

CWI CEO Chris Dehring called the series more than just a tournament. He said, “This series is more than just a set of international matches—it’s a celebration of the game’s expanding global footprint.” He added that as a full-member cricket nation, West Indies has a duty to help other countries grow.

Dehring noted the importance of helping Nepal during this crucial period in its cricketing development.
“We are proud to stand with Nepal at this moment in their history and look forward to exciting and competitive cricket in Sharjah,” he said.

Match Schedule Confirmed

The T20I series will begin on September 27, with the second game on September 28, and the final match on September 30.
All three games will be played at the Sharjah Cricket Stadium.

Thanks to Organisers and Partners

Cricket West Indies also thanked the Cricket Association of Nepal and the Emirates Cricket Board for their cooperation.
The board expressed hope for continued collaboration to grow the sport worldwide.

Bedingham Confident South Africa Can Chase Down Target in WTC Final

June 13, 2025, 10:07 am

South Africa’s middle-order batter David Bedingham has expressed strong confidence in his team’s ability to chase down Australia’s target in the World Test Championship (WTC) final. He said the Proteas are filled with belief and are excited about the challenge ahead.

Two Days of Intensity at Lord’s

The WTC final at Lord’s has delivered high drama across two days. Seam bowlers from both teams have dominated under challenging overcast conditions. Batters from either side have found it tough to score runs. South Africa were bowled out for just 138 in reply to Australia’s 212 in the first innings.

However, South Africa came back strong with the ball. Their bowlers produced a fiery spell to put Australia under pressure again.

Ngidi, Rabada and Jansen Lead South Africa’s Fightback

Pacer Lungi Ngidi made a big impact, justifying his selection by taking key wickets including Steven Smith, Beau Webster, and skipper Pat Cummins. Meanwhile, Marco Jansen and Kagiso Rabada brought intensity to the attack and used the overcast skies to their advantage.

By the end of day two, Australia managed to reach 144/8, holding a lead of 218 runs with just two wickets left.

Proteas “Excited” About Fourth-Innings Chase

After stumps on day two, Bedingham spoke about the mood in the South African dressing room. He stressed that the team was optimistic and ready for the fourth-innings challenge.

"It's just an amazing chance, and we are all very, very excited about the opportunity to win. Could go either way, but us as a team we are very, very excited and there's a lot of belief in the dressing room," Bedingham told ESPNcricinfo.

Australia’s Lower-Order Resistance Delays Collapse

While South Africa had Australia in deep trouble at 73/7, Alex Carey and Mitchell Starc fought back with a 61-run partnership. Their stand gave Australia some breathing space, lifting them to 144/8 at the end of play.

Still, South Africa remains confident. Bedingham said, "It's an amazing day. When they started batting in the third innings, we would've definitely taken 220 for 8. So we are very confident, there's a massive belief in this team."

Bedingham Hopes Pitch Will Ease on Day Three

Batting hasn’t been easy on the Lord’s surface, as both teams have struggled to post big scores. Pat Cummins had earlier said that the batters had to fight hard for every run. Bedingham, South Africa’s top scorer with 45 off 111 balls in the first innings, agreed.

He observed that conditions might slightly favour the batters as the game progresses.

"When you have six quality seamers on a tricky pitch it obviously makes batting tough. The way the game's going, the wicket's slowed down a bit, so the nicks won't carry," Bedingham explained. "So in the fourth innings they'll maybe come a bit straighter and that will probably be the danger on that type of wicket, but hopefully we can get those runs."

Tottenham Appoint Thomas Frank as New Head Coach Until 2028, Replacing Postecoglou

June 13, 2025, 4:28 am

Tottenham Hotspur have officially appointed Brentford manager Thomas Frank as their new head coach on a contract running until 2028. The 51-year-old Danish tactician steps into the role following the departure of Ange Postecoglou, who was dismissed earlier this month despite leading Spurs to Europa League glory in May ending the club’s 17-year wait for silverware.

Frank’s Rise with Brentford

Frank joins Spurs after a successful seven-year stint with Brentford. Appointed in 2016, he played a crucial role in elevating the club from the Championship to the Premier League, achieving promotion in 2021. Under his leadership, the Bees became a stable and competitive top-flight outfit, finishing last season seven places and 18 points above Tottenham. Despite lifting the Europa League trophy after defeating Manchester United in the final at Bilbao, Tottenham endured a disastrous domestic campaign. They finished 17th in the Premier League, losing 22 of their 38 games and narrowly avoiding relegation. Frank’s arrival marks the fourth permanent managerial appointment at the club since June 2021, underlining a period of upheaval and inconsistency.

Coaching Team Revamp for Tottenham Hotspur

Joining Frank in north London is a familiar coaching group. Justin Cochrane, previously associated with England’s youth set-up, will serve as Frank’s assistant coach, despite Brentford’s efforts to retain him. Also making the switch are head of performance Chris Haslam and first-team analyst Joe Newton. In addition, former Manchester United coach Andreas Georgson joins as an assistant, having previously worked with Frank at Brentford.

Frank’s Vision and Club Backing

Expressing his enthusiasm, Frank said, “I’m proud and excited to take on this opportunity at a historic club. Tottenham has the potential to compete at the highest level in Europe.” His appointment has been welcomed by chairman Daniel Levy, who cited Frank’s track record of tactical acumen, player development, and stability. “Thomas is a proven leader and a meticulous tactician who brings structure and vision. We are confident he is the right fit to guide us forward.” With Spurs set to return to Champions League football next season, the spotlight is now firmly on Frank to bring cohesion, intensity, and consistent results to a squad hungry for league redemption and European success.

Kevin De Bruyne Joins Napoli on a Free Transfer After Leaving Man City

June 13, 2025, 2:57 am

Manchester City legend and one of the greatest midfielders of his era, Kevin De Bruyne, has made a breathtaking switch to Italian champions Napoli, bringing to an end his mythological decade-long relationship with Manchester City. The Belgian genius joins Italy on a free transfer, making the sacrifice of rejecting a fat bid from MLS outfit Chicago Fire in order to continue his Champions League adventure at the pinnacle of the game. True to Neapolitan style, Napoli introduced their headline signing in a dramatic computer-generated shot of De Bruyne sitting on a throne, dressed in royal blue and capped with a crown captioned apropo, "King Kev is here."

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A post shared by SSC Napoli (@officialsscnapoli)

Antonio Conte to Coach Kevin De Bruyne in Naples

The 33-year-old will now be handled by Antonio Conte, the passionate coach and ex-Chelsea and Spurs manager, freshly appointed Napoli head coach. The pair will look to follow up Napoli's stunning Serie A title win last season, when they pipped bitter rivals in one of the closest finishes in recent history.

End of an Era at Manchester City

De Bruyne's City departure brings an era to a close. Signed from Wolfsburg in 2015, the Belgian wizard was central to Manchester City's greatest decade, winning 19 trophies.

Most notably perhaps, he was the creative cornerstone in City's Treble-winning campaign of 2022-23, something achieved only once previously in English football by Manchester United in 1999.

Emotional Farewell at the Etihad for Kevin De Bruyne

After his last home game against Bournemouth, the Etihad exploded into a poignant farewell ceremony. “It's been unbelievable to have the 10 years that I had with everything that happened here,” De Bruyne said. “It's been an unbelievable ride and an absolute pleasure.”

“It was a joy working really hard to help create something that brought the club the success we enjoyed. I'm super proud to have played a part in that. Manchester has been my home and my family's home for these past 10 years.”

Pat Cummins Surpasses Bumrah to Become Leading Wicket-Taker in WTC 2023–25 Cycle

June 12, 2025, 10:36 pm

Australia captain Pat Cummins made history at Lord's in the World Test Championship (WTC) final against South Africa on Thursday by becoming the highest wicket-taker in the ongoing WTC 2023–2025 cycle, surpassing India’s Jasprit Bumrah’s tally of 77 wickets. On the same day, he also became the leading wicket-taker in ICC tournament finals across formats, overtaking teammate Mitchell Starc’s tally of 11 wickets.

Six-Wicket Haul of Pat Cummins Floors South Africa

Cummins bowled a dramatic 6/28 in 18.1 overs, tearing through South Africa's batting order as they collapsed for a mere 138 in their first innings. The incendiary spell took an early grip on the final for Australia, with Cummins taking all six wickets to fall on Day 2.

Pat Cummins Joins Australia's Elite 300-Wicket Club

The milestone day also witnessed Cummins become the eighth Australian bowler to achieve 300 Test wickets. He joined a star-studded list that consists of Shane Warne, Glenn McGrath, Dennis Lillee, Brett Lee, Mitchell Johnson, Nathan Lyon, and Mitchell Starc. He recorded the achievement by bowling out Kagiso Rabada.

Best Bowling Figures by a Captain at Lord's

Cummins' 6/28 is currently the captain's best bowling performance in Tests at the historic Lord's Cricket Ground. He surpassed Bob Willis' 6/101 against India in 1982 to achieve the feat. The spell was not only productive but also rich in symbolism, as it came at cricket's spiritual home. With this achievement, Cummins tied the record of nine five-wicket performance as a Test captain with the great Richie Benaud. He is now only behind Imran Khan, who tops the list with 12 five-wicket performances. Cummins' leadership and consistency continue to raise his profile in world cricket.

One of the Best of the 2023–2025 Test Cycle

In the current 2023–2025 WTC cycle, Cummins has been the top performer. He has grabbed 79 wickets in 18 games at an average of 23.03 and a strike rate of 41.53, with four five-wicket hauls and six four-wicket hauls. His dominance is evident even compared to great bowlers such as Jasprit Bumrah and Mitchell Starc. Pat Cummins' recent achievement is just the icing on his legacy. As captain and first-choice bowler, he has never disappointed in the big moments. As records fall and his side prospers, Cummins is solidifying himself as one of the greatest captains of fast bowlers in cricket history.

Vaibhav Suryavanshi Smashes 190 in 90 Balls; RR Shares Epic Six-Hitting Video | Watch

June 12, 2025, 3:21 pm

Teenage cricket sensation Vaibhav Suryavanshi keeps the meteoric rise going with a muscle-crushing performance which left cricket fans and selectors aghast. In a warm-up game at the BCCI Centre of Excellence in Bengaluru, the hard-hitting left-handed opening bat allegedly smashed 190 runs from only 90 deliveries in a practice match prior to India's Under-19 tour of England. Popular for his aggressive stroke play, Suryavanshi unleashed a breathtaking onslaught at the bowlers, hoisting many balls over the boundary. His IPL side, Rajasthan Royals, posted a video of his six-a-thons, which soon went viral to make him one of India's brightest young talents in cricket.

Watch the video here:

https://twitter.com/rajasthanroyals/status/1933016338437722158

Youngest IPL Debutant With Record-Breaking Knock

Suryavanshi made headlines earlier this year when he became the youngest ever player to play for the Indian Premier League at the age of 14 years and 23 days. Playing for Rajasthan Royals, he made a dramatic entry by hitting a six on his very first ball against Lucknow Super Giants in April 2025. A week later, he penned history by hitting a 35-ball century against Gujarat Titans, becoming the youngest centurion in the history of IPL. His 11 sixes and 7 fours made fans and legends praise his batting. In his first season with IPL, Suryavanshi scored 252 runs in only seven games at a breathtaking strike rate of 206.55—the best of the season. His explosive and calm batting technique played a crucial role in Rajasthan Royals' journey.

Eyeing England Tour With Confidence

As the Indian U-19 squad gears up for its upcoming England tour, Suryavanshi’s recent form is proving to be a major boost. His ability to dismantle bowling attacks with flair and maturity at such a young age makes him a player to watch in the future. With sheer guidance and with incredible natural ability, Vaibhav Suryavanshi is not only living up to the expectations—he's transcending them. The cricketing fraternity now eagerly looks forward to his next international performance.

Next-Gen ‘Fab 4’ Picked by Kane Williamson: India Bags Two Spots | Watch

June 12, 2025, 11:11 am

The iconic “Fab Four” of cricket, Virat Kohli, Steve Smith, Joe Root, and Kane Williamson, have defined modern batting across formats but now, as all four approach their mid-30s, with Kohli retiring from Tests and T20Is and Smith stepping away from ODIs, the game appears to be entering a transition period. While they remain active, fans and experts alike are beginning to look toward the future.

New Era Looms

One of the original Fab Four, Kane Williamson, has now shared his thoughts on the next generation of elite, multi-format players. "Who could be the four generational players across formats?" Williamson was asked in a recent interview “The players that come to mind in terms of multi-format are, Yashasvi Jaiswal, Shubman Gill, Rachin Ravindra, Harry Brook. And also Cameron Green. Those are all outstanding players and have shown fantastic moments in all formats. All young and their games are just growing,” Williamson replied.

Kane Williamson picks the next Fab Four 👀 pic.twitter.com/qOQ4WuwrRO
— ESPNcricinfo (@ESPNcricinfo) June 10, 2025

Kohli Still a Cut Above, Says Former South Africa Star

Former South African cricketer Daryll Cullinan recently praised Kohli for his consistency and leadership. “I think in terms of the Fab Four, he obviously would go down right up there in terms of all formats of the game as being the best of them. They've all played some brilliant Test cricket. But what has set me apart with Virat Kohli is that he has taken on the responsibility in all forms of cricket, right up front, the captaincy, the whole expectations of India,” Cullinan said in an interview. “And he's carried that like someone who's wanted that, who's enjoyed that, and wants to be remembered for that. And that is why I have a tremendous amount of respect for him in terms of the players of his generation.” “I'm not taking anything away from Smith, Root, or Williamson. All three are very fine players. But besides thinking about the Fab Four, if I just look at him, what I found incredibly impressive has been his desire to be everything that India's batting is about. In the tough moments, winning games, chasing down big scores, pacing an innings, happily taking on the world on the field. In that regard, I think he stood out as being a tremendous cricketer of any age and time,” Cullinan added.

Messi-James Heated Clash Grabs Headlines During Argentina vs Colombia Copa América Match

June 11, 2025, 5:03 pm

Lionel Messi appeared visibly agitated during Argentina’s 1-1 draw with Colombia on Matchday 16 of the CONMEBOL World Cup Qualifiers, reigniting a controversy that dates back to the Copa América final. The Argentine captain confronted Colombian midfielder James Rodriguez over his earlier accusations of referee bias in favour of Argentina.

70th Minute Sparks Verbal Clash

The tense moment unfolded in the 70th minute, shortly after Enzo Fernández received a red card. Broadcast cameras caught Messi walking up to Rodriguez and confronting him. “You said I helped you in the final, you talk too much…,” Messi said. A stunned Rodriguez replied, “Why? I didn’t say anything.”

Old Comments Resurface from Copa América

This confrontation is linked to remarks Rodriguez made after Argentina defeated Colombia in the 2024 Copa América final. In an interview on Los Amigos de Edu, James had said:
“The referee favoured Argentina. He didn’t give us penalties. For me, a clear one.”

He also remarked, “Obviously, we wanted the title, but we didn’t win the Copa América because of external things, I think.”

Rodriguez Responds: ‘What Happens on the Field Stays There’

Following the match, Rodriguez addressed the situation briefly and appeared to downplay the exchange. “What happens on the field stays on the field,” he told reporters.

https://twitter.com/TyCSports/status/1932647930336252108

Messi Holds On to Grudge Over Bias Claims

Messi’s reaction suggests he hasn’t forgotten or forgiven the implications that Argentina’s Copa win wasn’t legitimate. The fact that both players engaged in the confrontation during a crucial qualifier underscores the depth of the issue.

Colombia and Argentina Share Points in Qualifier

Despite the drama, the game ended in a 1-1 draw. With both teams still battling for qualification spots, the encounter will be remembered as much for the verbal altercation as for the result.

As Argentina looks forward to the next matches, fans and analysts will be watching to see if Messi elaborates on the confrontation or lets it fade with the final whistle—something Rodriguez has already opted for.

Sourav Ganguly Criticises BCCI Over England Test Squad Selection

June 11, 2025, 4:41 pm

Former India captain Sourav Ganguly has voiced his disagreement with the exclusion of Shreyas Iyer from India’s squad for the upcoming Test series against England. Despite an impressive performance over the past year, Iyer was left out of the final squad — a move Ganguly finds unjustified.

Iyer recently finished as the top scorer for Punjab Kings in IPL 2025 and had been considered a strong middle-order candidate, especially in the absence of senior players Virat Kohli and Rohit Sharma. Ganguly stressed that Iyer’s form and adaptability under pressure warranted his inclusion.

“He has been playing at his best in the last one year, and should have been in this team. Last one year has been fantastic for him. He isn't the player who got left out. He is now scoring under pressure, taking responsibility, playing the short ball well. Although Test cricket's different, I would have had him in this series to see what he can do," Ganguly said in a statement to RevSportz.

England Include Teen Pacer Eddie Jack for Practice Ahead of First Test

Meanwhile, England have invited 19-year-old fast bowler Eddie Jack to train with their senior team ahead of the first Test match at Headingley on June 20. Jack impressed selectors with his performances for the England Lions during their two unofficial Test matches against India A.

In the second match held in Northampton, Jack dismissed Indian star KL Rahul after the latter had scored a century. The tall Hampshire pacer, standing at 6 feet 4 inches, also dismissed Dhruv Jurel — player of the match in the 2022 Ranchi Test — returning with figures of 2/71.

Jack, who has yet to debut in the County Championship, already has two first-class games under his belt. He has also represented England U-19s and played a notable warm-up match against Zimbabwe, where he took five wickets for a combined counties XI.

According to The Times, London, England Lions coaches like Andrew Flintoff, Graeme Swann, and Mark Wood have been impressed by Jack’s consistency and ability to beat the bat of several Indian Test regulars, including Nitish Reddy and Jurel.

India's five-match Test series against England will kick off the team’s new World Test Championship cycle, beginning June 20 at Headingley.

Australia Qualifies in 2026 World Cup, Here’s The Full List

June 11, 2025, 1:40 pm

The Socceroos have secured their position in the 2026 FIFA World Cup with a 2-1 come-from-behind win against Saudi Arabia on Tuesday. Australia won it back after conceding an early goal to Abdulrahman Al Obud and celebrated by scoring through Connor Metcalfe and Mitchell Duke to confirm their qualification. Saudi Arabia, who required a five-goal difference to qualify directly, now advance to the next stage of Asian qualifiers. They will be in a three-nation group with two teams from a pool that includes the United Arab Emirates (UAE), Qatar, Indonesia, Iraq, and Oman. Significantly, Oman qualified after winning a 97th-minute penalty in a 1-1 draw with Palestine, knocking the latter out of the running. Aside from co-hosts United States, Mexico, and Canada being the automatic qualifiers, the below teams have qualified for the World Cup thus far: Asia: Australia, Iran, Japan, Jordan, South Korea, Uzbekistan Oceania: New Zealand South America: Argentina

First-Time World Cup Finalists

Uzbekistan and Jordan became historical figures by qualifying for their very first World Cup finals. Ranked 57th globally, Uzbekistan is populated by 36 million people and started competing as an independent country in 1992 after gaining independence from the Soviet Union. They became members of FIFA in 1994. Their best bid for qualification was in 2006 when a refereeing error during a playoff against Bahrain made the game have to be replayed. Although they won the initial match 1-0, they were ultimately knocked out on away goals. Uzbekistan has regularly appeared in all the Asian Cups since 1996, making it to the knockout phase every time since 2004. They have had their best result in 2011 as semi-finalists and a quarter-final last year. Jordan, 62nd in the world, also has a breakthrough moment. With their first World Cup qualifiers in 1986, their closest attempt at qualification came in 2014 when they fell in an intercontinental playoff to Uruguay. Their last 3-0 victory against Oman, along with South Korea's 2-0 victory over Iraq, secured Jordan's first-ever entry into the tournament.

South Africa Eyes Historic Title; All Eyes on Markram and Rabada Ahead of WTC Final

June 11, 2025, 1:22 pm

As South Africa aims to lift their first world title in international cricket, fans are placing their hopes on Aiden Markram and Kagiso Rabada two standout players who have consistently delivered strong performances against Australia.

Australia Looks to Defend WTC Title

On the other side, Australia is preparing to defend their World Test Championship (WTC) mace under captain Pat Cummins. A win would mark a historic first for Australia — retaining the title. For South African skipper Temba Bavuma, this final offers the chance to bring home a world championship in Test cricket, adding gold to the country’s rainbow-themed flag.

Markram’s Time to Shine?

Aiden Markram is just 143 runs away from reaching 3,000 Test runs. Known for his elegant cover drives and exceptional strokeplay, Markram has yet to deliver a defining performance in a knockout ICC match. So far, he has scored only 68 runs across four such games, averaging 22.26, with a top score of 31.

Despite this, there’s optimism. Markram holds an impressive record against Australia — 480 runs in four Tests (eight innings) at an average of 60.60. This includes two centuries and a fifty, although all were scored on South African soil.

Rabada’s Big Stage Potential

Kagiso Rabada’s performance in ICC knockout games has been steady. He’s picked up six wickets in four matches, averaging 26.83 with best figures of 2/14 and an economy rate of 7.00. But when it comes to Australia, Rabada turns lethal.

He’s bagged 49 wickets in 10 Tests against the Aussies, with an average of 23.08 and economy of 3.46. His best figures stand at 6/54, with three five-wicket hauls and even a ten-wicket match performance.

Closing In on Legends

Rabada is on the verge of overtaking some of South Africa’s all-time greats. He currently has 327 Test wickets at an average of 22.00, with best figures of 7/112. He needs just four more to surpass Allan Donald (330 wickets), placing him fourth among South African Test wicket-takers. The top spot remains with Dale Steyn, who retired with 439 wickets.

In all international formats combined, Rabada has taken 566 wickets in 241 matches. He’s just seven short of passing Jacques Kallis (572 wickets), which would make him the fifth-highest international wicket-taker for South Africa. At the top is Shaun Pollock, with 823 wickets.

What’s at Stake?

As the final unfolds at Lord’s, the big question remains — will Markram deliver a memorable knock, and will Rabada continue his domination over Australia? Or will the Aussies spoil the party once again?

Playing XIs:

South Africa: Aiden Markram, Ryan Rickelton, Wiaan Mulder, Temba Bavuma (c), Tristan Stubbs, David Bedingham, Kyle Verreynne (wk), Marco Jansen, Keshav Maharaj, Kagiso Rabada, Lungi Ngidi

Australia: Usman Khawaja, Marnus Labuschagne, Cameron Green, Steven Smith, Travis Head, Beau Webster, Alex Carey (wk), Pat Cummins (c), Mitchell Starc, Nathan Lyon, Josh Hazlewood

Pant’s Emotional Note for Pooran: ‘Respect Always

June 11, 2025, 12:49 pm

India’s Test vice-captain Rishabh Pant expressed his admiration for Nicholas Pooran after the West Indian cricketer announced his retirement from international cricket. In a message shared on Instagram, Pant referred to Pooran as a “true teammate” and an “absolute powerhouse.” He also wished him success in the next chapter of his career.

Pant’s message read, “You have made your mark bro – a true teammate, friend and an absolute powerhouse. Proud to have shared the field with you. Congrats on everything you have done for West Indies cricket. Wishing you nothing but success for the road ahead. Respect always.”

https://twitter.com/CricCrazyJohns/status/1932647112027607279

Pooran Announces Retirement

On Tuesday, Nicholas Pooran officially ended his international career. His departure added to the list of high-profile retirements this year.
Earlier, South Africa’s Heinrich Klaasen and Australia’s Glenn Maxwell also stepped back from some formats.

Pooran described his decision as a “difficult” one. He had recently requested West Indies selectors not to consider him for the England white-ball tour.

View this post on Instagram

A post shared by Nicholas Pooran (@nicholaspooran)

Impact on West Indies Cricket

Pooran’s retirement has come as a major blow to the West Indies team, especially with the T20 World Cup 2026 still months away.
As the most capped and highest-scoring T20I player for the West Indies, his absence will be deeply felt.

Career Filled with Highs and Challenges

Pooran’s international career began in 2016. Despite facing a ban in 2019 for ball tampering, he managed to make a strong comeback.
He even led the West Indies to a 4-1 series victory over Australia in Kieron Pollard’s absence. His final appearance for the team came against Bangladesh, where West Indies suffered an 80-run defeat in Kingstown.

A Look at the Numbers

Since his debut, Pooran played 106 T20 Internationals and 61 One-Day Internationals.
In T20Is, he scored 2,275 runs with an average of 26.14 and a strike rate of 136.39.
In ODIs, he tallied 1,983 runs at an average of 39.66, striking at 99.15. His record includes three centuries and eleven half-centuries.

Farewell Message to Fans

In his retirement note on Instagram, Pooran shared his emotions about representing the Caribbean side, “Wearing that maroon, standing for the anthem, and giving everything I had each time I stepped on the field... it’s hard to put into words what that truly means to me. To have led the team as captain is a privilege I will always hold close to my heart.”

WTC Final Bombshell: Pat Cummins Sparks Debate by Forcing Labuschagne to Open

June 11, 2025, 3:26 am

Australia skipper Pat Cummins has supported Marnus Labuschagne to be the opener in the International Cricket Council (ICC) World Test Championship (WTC) Final at Lord's, a move that represents a decisive change in the team's top-order approach. Cummins has chosen Labuschagne to partner Usman Khawaja in opening the innings with the hope that the 30-year-old can be a long-term answer to the position that has witnessed quite a number of batters trying to fill David Warner's role. Labuschagne, who has never played as an opener in Test cricket, possesses just one century in a Test match since 2022 and didn't impress much with two games for the County team Glamorgan this month.

"One Spot Up": Pat Cummins Justifies Labuschagne's Promotion

"I think Cam Green, the last few weeks he's had, is coming back in great form, we thought he deserves a spot somewhere in the batting line-up. We thought three probably suited him best. And then, you know, with Marnus moving, we thought it's, you know, one spot up really. It's not too different from batting at three. He's done well here in England in the past. You know, all the boys have trained well. He, Sam ( Konstas), and Josh Inglis have all trained really well. But I thought the selectors went with Marnus's experience, (not only) here at Lord's, but in England in general," Cummins told reporters in London on Tuesday.

High-Risk Call in English Conditions Taken by Pat Cummins

The captain elucidated further that opening in English conditions is always challenging but can provide early scoring possibilities, particularly before the Dukes ball begins to swing a lot.“Opening the batting can be tough, but it can also be the best time to bat. There's an opportunity to score there,” he said. Labuschagne, the ex-World No.1 Test batsman, will walk in with Usman Khawaja at the top of the order, and Steve Smith, Travis Head, Cameron Green, and Beau Webster will make up a strong middle order.

Green Returns, Hazlewood Preferred Over Boland

Green comes back into the Test team after making a comeback from back surgery, while Webster holds on to his position to provide useful all-round contributions, comprising part-time medium pace and spin. At bowling, Josh Hazlewood has been chosen over Scott Boland, a move which Cummins revealed was among the hardest to make. “There are some guys where you generally say you've done nothing wrong, don't change a thing, and that's Scott. He's just really unfortunate to miss out,” Cummins said, assuring that Boland remains an integral part of the setup going forward. Teenager Sam Konstas, who was in the mix for a batting position, has been omitted as well. But Cummins stressed the 19-year-old is very much in Australia's future plans. “Realistically, he's really young, he's got a long career ahead of him. Even by not playing, we hope to show him there are learning opportunities.”

WTC Final 2025: Australia and South Africa Reveal Playing XIs Ahead of Title Clash

June 10, 2025, 11:09 pm

As the ICC World Test Championship (WTC) final approaches at Lord's from June 11–15, both South Africa and Australia have released their playing XIs a day before the summit contest. The finals at cricket's "Home of Cricket" not only bring in front previous grandeur against the budding aspirations, but also revive a century-old rivalry first played here in 1912.

Australia Banks Experience and Form

Defending titleholders Australia, under Pat Cummins, have selected a strong, well-balanced lineup with experienced veterans and form men. Usman Khawaja will open with Marnus Labuschagne, who has been elevated to ensure solidity early on. Steve Smith, Travis Head, and Cameron Green come in the middle order, while Beau Webster has been given a surprise opportunity at No. 6. Alex Carey will be responsible for wicketkeeping. The bowling lineup includes the tested pace bowling trio of Pat Cummins, Mitchell Starc, and Josh Hazlewood, with Nathan Lyon being the only frontline spinner. Australia's XI confirmed: Usman Khawaja, Marnus Labuschagne, Steve Smith, Travis Head, Cameron Green, Beau Webster, Alex Carey (wk), Pat Cummins (c), Mitchell Starc, Nathan Lyon, Josh Hazlewood.

Proteas Field a Well-Rounded Lineup

Temba Bavuma's South Africa have followed a combination of youth and experience. Aiden Markram and Ryan Rickelton will share the opening responsibilities, with Wiaan Mulder back at No. 3. The captain will stabilize the middle order with him, along with youngsters Tristan Stubbs and David Bedingham. Kyle Verreynne will wear the gloves, providing solidity in the lower-middle order. Their pace-led bowling attack comprises Marco Jansen, Lungi Ngidi, and the consistently reliable Kagiso Rabada, while Keshav Maharaj is at the helm of spin. South Africa's official XI: Aiden Markram, Ryan Rickelton, Wiaan Mulder, Temba Bavuma (c), Tristan Stubbs, David Bedingham, Kyle Verreynne (wk), Marco Jansen, Keshav Maharaj, Kagiso Rabada, Lungi Ngidi.

Build-Up Tension and Historical Context for WTC 2025 Final

Australia eyes consecutive WTC titles their 2023 win at The Oval serving as confident precedent. For South Africa, this marks a debut in the event’s final, and a chance to end a 27 year wait for an ICC trophy since 1998. The game revives a vintage Lord's feud that began in 1912, when Australia dominated the Triangular Tournament. This year's encounter not only determines a champion but may redefine the future of red ball cricket especially for the Proteas, in the hopes that this victory will ignite a generation. With lineups decided, strategic bravado now awaits. Cummins' battle-hardened crew is ready, as Bavuma's green-froged tourists arrive determined to shatter history. The setting awaits a high-stakes confrontation under Lord's lights cricket's ultimate proving ground for resolve and glory.

RCB Owners Deny Reports of Franchise Sale After IPL 2025 Win

June 10, 2025, 9:30 pm

The share prices of United Sprits went up by over 3 per cent on Tuesday after reports surfaced that its parent company Diageo was looking to sell stakes in IPL franchise Royal Challengers Bengaluru. Social media was abuzz with rumours with many suggesting that company was looking to capitalise on RCB's victory in IPL 2025. However, United Spirits issued a clarification denying any such reports. “This has reference to your email communication dated 10th June 2025 seeking clarification from the Company on media reports in relation to potential stake sale of RCB. The Company would like to clarify that aforesaid media reports are speculative in nature and it is not pursuing any such discussions,” United Spirits told the Bombay Stock Exchange and BSE Surveillance Department.

Lalit Modi Blames RCB and Karnataka Government for Parade Stampede

Meanwhile, former Indian Premier League (IPL) chairman Lalit Modi has strongly criticised the Royal Challengers Bengaluru (RCB) franchise and the Karnataka state government for the tragic stampede that claimed 11 lives and left several others injured during the team's victory parade in Bengaluru earlier this month.

RCB Victory Parade Turns Tragic in Bengaluru

Following RCB's maiden IPL title win, thousands of jubilant fans gathered outside the M. Chinnaswamy Stadium on June 4, where the official celebrations were held. However, the event took a devastating turn as the overcrowded venue led to chaos when fans attempted to forcefully enter the stadium, resulting in a deadly stampede.

Modi Labels Incident as ‘Gross Mismanagement’

Terming the tragedy as one of gross mismanagement, speaking only with IANS, Lalit Modi sent his deepest sympathies to the victims' families. "First and foremost, my condolences to the families of those who lost their lives in the stampede. This should never have happened. The entire event was poorly planned and executed," Modi said. "There is so much mudslinging and finger-pointing going on, but the issue is simple — the event should never have been allowed without proper arrangements in place. The authorities failed, and the team management should also have ensured fan safety before participating in the so-called celebrations."

PCB Plans Leadership Reset, Babar Azam Out Of Running

June 10, 2025, 11:04 am

The Pakistan Cricket Board (PCB) plans on replacing current Test skipper Shan Masood. Big changes are coming to Pakistan cricket, with Salman Ali Agha likely to become the new captain in all formats. They also want to make broader structural adjustments to how the team is managed.

PCB Plans to Restructure Leadership and Introduce New Committee

This leadership shift is part of a larger PCB plan to improve performance. This includes creating an “observatory” committee to monitor cricketing affairs and advise PCB chairman Mohsin Naqvi. According to a PCB source, former Pakistan captain Sarfaraz Ahmed and ex-pacer Sikander Bakht have been invited to Lahore for discussions about joining the new observatory committee. The source confirmed, “The two were informed about the decision to form the observatory committee and offered positions on it.” Other former cricketers are also expected to be included. This committee will oversee progress in both national and domestic circuits and report directly to the PCB chairman.

Selection Panel Restructuring Underway

The PCB is also rethinking how team selections are made. PCB chairman Mohsin Naqvi, in consultation with white-ball head coach Mike Hesson and other advisors, may introduce a new selection structure or revamp the existing panel. A source revealed, “Either there will be changes in the current selection committee which would continue to work with the Pakistan team management or a new selection set-up would be announced with prime focus on looking and finding talent from domestic and age group cricket.” Naqvi is reportedly aiming to give the coaching staff and captains more say in picking squads. This will bring clarity and coordination to team decisions. Salman Ali Agha is currently leading Pakistan in T20s and is the top choice to take on the captaincy in ODIs and Tests as well. The board is expected to make this move official after appointing a new red-ball head coach. This could also mean the end of Shan Masood’s stint as Test captain.

Looking Ahead: South Africa Series Key for New Captain

Pakistan’s Test calendar is relatively light this year, with only five matches scheduled. The team will kick off its ICC World Test Championship campaign with a home series against South Africa. With so few matches, experts see strong and stable leadership as critical. A stable leadership will help set the tone for the WTC cycle.

Nicholas Pooran Announces Retirement from International Cricket at 29

June 10, 2025, 10:48 am

West Indies wicket-keeper batsman Nicholas Pooran, considered one of the world's best T20 players, has officially retired from international cricket of all types. The 29-year-old announced on Monday evening, barely days after South African giant Heinrich Klaasen also quit international cricket. However, Pooran will still play franchise cricket around the world.

Nicholas Pooran Announces Decision on Instagram

Nicholas Pooran posted the news on Instagram, expressing his profound gratitude for the experiences he enjoyed playing for the West Indies.

View this post on Instagram

A post shared by Nicholas Pooran (@nicholaspooran)

"After a lot of contemplation and deliberation, I've chosen to make this announcement about my retirement from international Cricket," Pooran stated. "This game we adore has given and will keep giving so much happiness, meaning, memories that I will never forget, and an opportunity to represent the citizens of the West Indies.". Wearing maroon, being on the field for the anthem, and leaving everything I had out there every time I took the field. It's difficult to put into words what that means to me. Having been able to lead the team as captain is something I will always treasure in my heart." "To the fans – thank you for your unrelenting support. You picked me up during the hard times and cheered for the good ones with unbridled fervor." "To my family, friends, and teammates – thank you for being along for the ride. Your faith and encouragement got me through it all." "While this global chapter of my career comes to an end, I will never lose love for West Indies Cricket. I wish the region and team all the best and strength for the future ahead."

Record-Breaking T20I Career

Pooran leaves as the West Indies' most capped T20I player with 106 games played. He is the record holder for the top scorer for the team in T20 Internationals with 2,275 runs. He was also the captain at a crucial point in the West Indies' recent cricketing history. His retirement renews fears among cricket traditionalists of an increasing trend of cricketers bypassing international duties to play exclusively for well-paying franchise leagues. Pooran, too, had been a former West Indies captain and had played a significant leadership role in the side.

A Shift in Priorities for Cricketers

The premature departure of the 29-year-old testifies to the changing dynamics of contemporary cricket, where franchise loyalties are given more importance than national duties. As the world franchise circuit provides fiscal security and round-the-year cricket, several players in their prime are following suit.

James Anderson on Tendulkar-Anderson Trophy: “Sachin Was My Idol Growing Up”

June 10, 2025, 1:35 am

James Anderson on Monday said he idolized Sachin Tendulkar when he was a young boy, after officials announced that the England-India Test series trophy would bear the names of the two cricketing legends. The England and Wales Cricket Board (ECB) and the Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI) will officially unveil the Tendulkar-Anderson Trophy ahead of the five-Test series between India and England, starting June 20 at Leeds. “It's a huge honour. I still can't quite believe it. Sachin is someone I looked up to when I was growing up, though I don't want to do him a disservice with his age," Anderson told.

James Anderson: Pride in Playing Against India

"I remember watching him, an absolute legend of the game, and I played against him a lot as well. So to have this trophy is a huge honour for me, and I couldn't be more proud." Talking about his experience of playing against India, Anderson said, "There are some great memories, I always loved playing against India. I'd say, after the Ashes, it was the series that England look forward to the most." “I obviously had some tough times in India, it's a really hard place to go, but we won there which was a really special moment, and some of the battles we had in England were great. They had some amazing players."

Outlook on the Upcoming Series

Anderson said India have put together a “strong squad” for the series in England following retirements of batting greats Virat Kohli and Rohit Sharma. "This series is going to be exactly the same as you'd expect. I know India are going through a little bit of change with a new captain (Shubman Gill), and losing (Virat) Kohli and (Rohit) Sharma, but I still think they've got a strong squad with some really exciting players. “England obviously are trying to play a certain way. It lends itself to a really exciting series,” he added.

James Anderson’s Test Legacy in Numbers

James Anderson has dominated Test cricket since his debut in 2003. He has played 188 matches and bowled 40,037 deliveries across 350 innings. He has delivered 1,730 maiden overs and conceded 18,627 runs while picking up 704 wickets the highest by any fast bowler in Test history. Anderson recorded his best bowling figures at 7 for 42. He maintains an economy rate of 2.79, averages 26.4 runs per wicket, and takes a wicket every 56.9 balls. With 32 five-wicket hauls and 32 four-wicket performances, Anderson has firmly etched his name among the all-time greats of the game.

Pat Cummins Mocks England After India Forces Australia Out of Lord’s Nets

June 9, 2025, 8:29 pm

Just a few days before the World Test Championship final test against South Africa, the training of the Australian cricket team, led by Pat Cummins, was struck by a bizarre bump. As per various reports, Australia were asked to find a training facility on Saturday after the WTC finalists were told that the Lord's ground cannot be used for training purposes. The Indian cricket team was preferred over Australia for training at Lord's, according to Code Sports, even though the side begins Test series against England on June 20. The teams play at Lord's from July 10 for the third Test of the five-match series.

Pat Cummins Reacts to Being Sidelined for Indian Team

On Sunday, Australia acquired access to the venue. Australia captain Pat Cummins was, however, undeterred by the move. Instead, he took a ferocious swipe at England over an incident that occurred during the 2023 Ashes. During that series, Australia Usman Khawaja was yanked by a MCC member when the Australian cricket team was coming back after a session when Alex Carey run out Jonny Bairstow. “I think this is the best version of the stadium this morning,” Cummins said, according to dailytelegraph.co.au. “There's no one around, which is great. I'm sure it will be much more civil this time around. Things got pretty heated in the middle of that Ashes series, but I think a lot of them will have learned their lesson and I'm sure they'll be very polite.”

Reports Claim India Was Prioritised Over Australia at Lord’s

A report by Fox Cricket alleged that the Indian team was given the nod to train at Lord's "at the cost of the Australian team" when Pat Cummins' men were 'kicked out'. The report further pointed out that although the WTC final begins on June 11, India's first Test against England is not until June 20. Actually, India's Test against England at Lord's is the third game of the series and will begin on July 10.

Australia Finally Access Lord’s; Pat Cummins Reflects on Ashes Heat

Only after being denied entry in the first place did the Australian players get a chance to try themselves out at the ground on Sunday. Australian skipper Pat Cummins then commented about his team's preparations, strategies, and the abuse they always receive every time they play at Lord's. "I think this is the best version of the stadium this morning," he said. "There's no one around, which is great. I'm sure it will be much more civil this time around. "Things got pretty heated in the middle of that Ashes series, but I think a lot of them will have learned their lesson and I'm sure they'll be very polite."

‘I couldn’t believe it’: Carlos Alcaraz’s Happiness Fades After Spain Loses to Portugal in Shootout

June 9, 2025, 3:06 pm

Spain experienced mixed emotions on a dramatic day in sports. On one hand, Carlos Alcaraz gave fans a thrilling reason to celebrate. On the other hand, the national football team suffered a painful defeat to Portugal.

Alcaraz Pulls Off a Grand Slam Miracle

To begin with, Alcaraz made history at the French Open. He came back from two sets down and saved three match points. Eventually, he defeated Jannik Sinner 4-6, 6-7(4), 6-4, 7-6(3), 7-6(10-2) in an unforgettable final.

As a result, he claimed his fifth Grand Slam title in five finals. Moreover, he became only the third man to win a major after saving match points. Notably, Novak Djokovic was the last to do so in 2019 at Wimbledon.

Immediately after the win, he celebrated with his coaches, team, and ball kids. However, his joy was short-lived.

Football Loss Dampens Tennis Glory

Soon after, Alcaraz received bad news. A staff member informed him in the locker room that Spain had lost to Portugal in the UEFA Nations League final. At that moment, he stopped signing autographs, looked stunned, and reached for his phone to check updates.

Portugal Edges Out Spain in Penalty Drama

Earlier in the evening, Spain and Portugal had battled to a 2-2 draw after extra time in Munich. Consequently, the game moved to penalties. Diogo Costa saved Álvaro Morata’s fourth shot for Spain. Then, Rúben Neves sealed the 5-3 shootout win for Portugal.

Unfortunately for Spain, Morata was the only player to miss his penalty. He appeared heartbroken and couldn’t hold back his emotions.

Ronaldo Keeps Portugal in the Game

Before that, Mikel Oyarzabal had given Spain the lead in the 45th minute, thanks to a clever assist from Pedri. However, Cristiano Ronaldo equalized in the 61st minute with his 138th international goal — a world record.

Footballers Watch Tennis Before Final

Interestingly, before the football final began, Spain’s players watched Alcaraz’s match. Their excitement during his comeback was captured in pre-match photos. Yet, that early joy didn’t last long.

Alcaraz Reflects on Pressure and Resilience

In the post-match press conference, Alcaraz shared his thoughts. He said, "When the situations are against you, you have to fight, keep fighting." He added, "It is a Grand Slam final. It's no time to be tired. It's no time to give up."

He continued, "I think the real champions are made in those situations when you deal with that pressure. I mean, that's what the real champions have done in their whole careers."

D Gukesh Tells His Top Norway Chess Moment; ‘Beating Magnus’ | VIDEO

June 9, 2025, 1:51 pm

Following intense battles, five-time world champion Magnus Carlsen took his seventh Norway Chess crown after American Grandmaster Fabiano Caruana beat India's young star D. Gukesh. While Gukesh failed to win the title, he still had a moment to cherish. During a post-tournament event, the 19-year-old kept his spirits high and showed his sense of humour. When asked about his favourite moment from the tournament, Gukesh didn’t miss a beat and replied while looking at Carlsen, “Beating Magnus.” The response sparked laughter among the audience and brought a smile to Carlsen’s face. Watch:

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A post shared by Norway Chess (@norway_chess)

Magnus' Favourite Moment

Conversely, however, when the same question was put to Carlsen, he echoed Gukesh's words, saying, "It's the same as Gukesh. I mean, there were great moments in the tournament. That's the one that sticks out for me as well." The clip was then posted by Norway Chess with the caption, "We will ALL remember this one thing."

Tough Game b/w Gukesh and Magnus

Even after losing to Gukesh in round six, a game in which Carlsen was plainly angry as he slapped the table before shaking hands, the Norwegian great recovered. Summing up that defeat, Carlsen said, "The dream of playing a really good tournament burst with that game. It was not my best moment, but I regretted the actions that I took more than the gesture because that sort of just happened at the time. I was so kind of zoned out that I had to get out of the car on the ride home and just take a few minutes to gather myself." Watch Magnus' Reaction:

WHAT JUST HAPPENED? 😱🫣 pic.twitter.com/RwBqhfU0gv
— Norway Chess (@NorwayChess) June 1, 2025

Carlsen had initially won the opening round but stumbled in round six against Gukesh, who celebrated his first-ever classical win over the World No. 1. However, Carlsen made a strong comeback and secured the championship after Gukesh lost his final-round game to Caruana. In the final standings, Carlsen topped with 16 points, followed by Caruana at 15.5, and Gukesh with 14.5. Arjun Erigaisi, another Indian talent, ended the tournament in fifth place with 12.5 points. Carlsen later remarked that Gukesh and Erigaisi 'still need a little bit of time to prepare', suggesting they are promising but not quite at their peak yet.

Is Sanju Samson Joining CSK? Instagram Post Sparks Buzz About RR Exit After IPL 2025

June 9, 2025, 12:04 pm

Is Sanju Samson leaving Rajasthan Royals (RR) to join Chennai Super Kings (CSK)? That's the question on everyone's mind following RR captain's cryptic Instagram post that said, "Time to MOVE.!!" The picture, where Samson is standing with his wife next to a road with a yellow line drawn on it, left fans going crazy, believing it to be a veiled reference to a switch to the yellow-uniformed CSK.

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A post shared by Sanju V Samson (@imsanjusamson)

A user posted, "Seems Sanju is leaving RR and coming to CSK," while another said, "He is going to CSK I TOLD YOU EARLIER." Fueling speculation, another fan shared, "Bro Chennai Super Kings coming button."

Transfer Only Possible Through Trade or Auction

If CSK needs to bring in Samson to their team, the franchise needs to get him through trade. Another option for CSK is to go for the star batter at the IPL 2026 mini-auction, but only if Rajasthan Royals drop him from their retained list. Currently, CSK's captain is Ruturaj Gaikwad, who replaced the great MS Dhoni.

Sanju Samson's IPL Journey So Far

Sanju Samson started his IPL career with Kolkata Knight Riders (KKR) in 2012 when they were part of the championship-winning team, though he didn't get an opportunity to play. Before the 2013 IPL, Rajasthan Royals signed him, and he played for them till 2015. He then shifted his base to Delhi Capitals (formerly Delhi Daredevils) for IPL 2016 and 2017, before returning to RR at the IPL 2018 mega-auction. RR retained him once again prior to both the IPL 2022 and IPL 2025 mega-auctions.

A Successful Captain for Rajasthan Royals

Samson was named captain of Rajasthan Royals in 2021. With him as captain, RR made the final of IPL 2022, their first title appearance since their very first title in 2008. Samson has captained RR in a total of 65 games, winning 33 and losing 32. His stability and leadership have turned him into the backbone of the franchise.

RR's Top Run-Score in IPL

With 4027 runs, Sanju Samson is the highest run-scoring for RR in IPL history. He is the lone batter from the franchise to have achieved the 4000-run mark. His teammate Jos Buttler takes the second spot with 3055 runs.

International Career and National Duties

Samson's showings in the IPL got him included in the national team for the 2014 England tour, and he made his Indian debut in 2015. He still appears in India's T20I squad as a regular member. Although there's been no official word on how things are shaping up for him and CSK, his mysterious post has already fueled fan speculation and excitement leading up to IPL 2026.

‘It hurts, but you cannot keep crying’: Jannik Sinner Reacts After Crushing Defeat in French Open Final

June 9, 2025, 11:24 am

Jannik Sinner fought hard to hide his heartbreak after a crushing loss in the French Open 2025 final. Although he tried to smile through the pain, his teary eyes and shaky voice gave away his true emotions. He came within one point of lifting his first French Open trophy and completing a third Grand Slam win in a row. But Carlos Alcaraz staged a brilliant comeback.

Alcaraz Saves Match Points, Wins in Five Sets

Alcaraz saved three match points in the fourth set. Then, he won a nail-biting fifth-set tie-break to defend his French Open title. This match, the longest French Open final in Open Era history, ended in heartbreak for Sinner.

Sinner Reacts with Honest Emotion

After the match, Sinner shared his feelings. “It’s easier to play than talking now,” he said during the on-court interview. “I won’t sleep very well tonight but it’s OK.”

Despite the pain, he thanked his team. “We gave everything we had to reach this point in the tournament. Even though it is very, very difficult right now, it was a great tournament.”

Determined to Move Forward

Sinner said he would not dwell on the loss for long. “We try to delete it somehow and take the positive and keep going. There are no other ways,” he added. “It hurts, but you cannot keep crying.”

https://twitter.com/rolandgarros/status/1931839686248456693

Rivalry Tilts in Alcaraz’s Favor

This defeat marked Sinner’s fifth straight loss to Alcaraz. It was also their first Grand Slam final meeting and the first such final between two players born in the 2000s. Alcaraz now leads their head-to-head record 8-4.

Sinner’s Strong Start

Sinner came into the final in great form. He had defeated Novak Djokovic in straight sets in the semi-final. In the final, he won the first two sets and broke Alcaraz early in the third. At that point, he looked set for victory.

Alcaraz Turns the Match Around

However, Alcaraz didn’t give up. He won four straight games to lead 4-1 in the third set. Although Sinner broke back, Alcaraz broke again to take the set. That ended Sinner’s 31-set winning streak in Grand Slams.

Fourth Set Drama

In the fourth set, both players held serve until 3-3. Then, Sinner broke serve and reached 5-3, just one game away from the title. Yet Alcaraz saved three championship points and broke back. He then won the tie-break with back-to-back aces.

Final Set Battle

In the fifth set, Alcaraz broke Sinner early. He went up 3-1, but Sinner fought back and broke him at 5-3. Still, Alcaraz stayed calm. He held serve, forced a tie-break, and finished the match with a powerful forehand on his first championship point.

Cristiano Ronaldo Cries As Portugal Win UEFA Nations League Final

June 9, 2025, 10:44 am

Cristiano Ronaldo couldn’t hold back his emotions as Portugal defeated Spain in a dramatic UEFA Nations League final on Sunday. The match, held at the Allianz Arena in Munich, ended 2-2 after extra time and was eventually decided by a penalty shootout. Portugal came out on top, winning 5-3, securing their second Nations League title. The 40-year-old football legend, who now serves as Portugal’s captain and talisman, watched from the sidelines during the decisive moments. Ronaldo had been substituted in the 88th minute due to an injury, with PSG’s Goncalo Ramos coming on as his replacement. Despite being off the pitch, Ronaldo was visibly emotional as he witnessed Ruben Neves net the final spot-kick. Overcome with passion, he dropped to his knees and wept.

Ronaldo Scores Crucial Equaliser Before Substitution

Ronaldo’s influence was felt earlier in the match as well. Portugal was trailing, but in the 61st minute, a deflected cross from Nuno Mendes fell perfectly at Ronaldo’s feet at the far post. He volleyed it into the net, bringing his team level.That goal by ronaldo changed the game and that's what later led to penalties. “Ronaldo took center stage for his emotional reaction. The 40-year-old, overcome with passion, let the tears flow as he dropped to his knees the moment Ruben Neves' kick went in.” The victory was reminiscent of Ronaldo’s emotional breakdown after the 2016 Euro final win against France. This victory over Spain marks his third international trophy,adding to Ronaldo's already stellar record.

Next Stop: World Cup 2026 Qualification

Portugal also made history by becoming the first nation to win the UEFA Nations League twice. After the victory, Ronaldo has been receiving a lot of love and praise online for being able to perform at the highest level, even at his age. Ronaldo’s next mission is to help Portugal qualify for the 2026 FIFA World Cup. If he wins it, he will finally complete football. Ronaldo fans across the globe are hoping that the Portuguese striker will accomplish this.

Carlos Alcaraz Beats Jannik Sinner in Historic Final to Defend French Open Title

June 9, 2025, 2:24 am

Carlos Alcaraz defended his crown at Roland Garros after beating world number 1 Jannik Sinner in the longest French Open men's singles final in history. Alcaraz, who was two sets down at the start, came back from behind to register an emphatic 4-6, 6-7, 6-4, 7-6, 7-6 win over Sinner and claimed back-to-back titles at the French Open.

Resilient Comeback by Carlos Alcaraz Shakes Sinner

The Spaniard demonstrated incredible determination and grit after losing the opening two sets 4-6, 6-7 and then going on to take three successive sets to outclass Sinner in a moment classic. Sinner relaxed his grip marginally in the third and fourth sets, but he gave it his all in the last one to take it deep. Ultimately, Alcaraz was able to edge past him in the tie-breaker. The all-time record match lasted 5 hours and 29 minutes which is the longest final in French Open history. It had no problem beating the 1982 Paris final where Mats Wilander beat Guillermo Vilas in four sets in 4hr 42min. It was Sinner's first loss in a Grand Slam final.

Unrelenting pressure from the backhand enabled Sinner to take an early break up in the second set and the top seed started to tighten the screw on Alcaraz, who was reeling back 1-4 on a sun-kissed Court Philippe Chatrier.

Tiebreak Drama and Fightback of Carlos Alcaraz

A ferocious Alcaraz started the fight and received deafening roars when he levelled at 10 games and then took a tiebreak but Sinner pipped him ahead with a scorching forehand winner and doubled his advantage after two hours had passed.

Alcaraz, never having returned from two sets down previously, fought well hoping to escape his maiden loss in a final of a major and retrieved a set before fighting gallantly to save three match points at 3-5 adrift in the fourth set, subsequently regaining equilibrium through the tiebreak.

Fifth Slam Seals Legacy

The 22-year-old Spanish player took his impeccable record in Grand Slam finals to 5-0, stopping Sinner's 20-match major unbeaten run. With the dramatic win, Alcaraz became the third-youngest male player in history to have won five Grand Slam titles joining tennis greats Bjorn Borg and countryman Rafael Nadal while he is the vanguard for tennis' new generation.

Sinner was agonisingly denied a third consecutive Grand Slam title following last year's US Open victory and consecutive Australian Open titles. He lost his fifth consecutive match to Alcaraz in their first Grand Slam final meeting and their first major championship match between two players born in the 2000s. Alcaraz leads 8-5 in total after defeating Sinner to win in Rome, where the Italian returned to the court after serving a three-month doping suspension.