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The Economic Times

Sports / The Economic Times

Kimi Antonelli takes his first F1 win with victory in China to extend Mercedes' dominant start

The 19-year-old Italian pulled clear of an entertaining battle between Russell and the two Ferraris to take a commanding win at the Chinese Grand Prix on Sunday and share the podium with his teammate and Hamilton, the seven-time champion he replaced last year. Im speechless. Im about to cry, to be honest, Antonelli said, holding back tears. Thank you so much to my team because they helped me to achieve this dream.

15 Mar 2026 11:56 pm
Shubman Gill, Smriti Mandhana win top BCCI awards

Shubman Gill and Smriti Mandhana received top honours at the BCCI Naman Awards 2026. They were named Best International Cricketers for their outstanding performances in the 2024-2025 season. India's five trophy-winning teams were also celebrated. Former stars Roger Binny, Rahul Dravid, and Mithali Raj received the Col. C. K. Nayudu Lifetime Achievement Award.

15 Mar 2026 10:04 pm
India's last Asian Cup qualifier against Hong Kong to be held in Kochi on Mar 31

The Indian men's football team will play their final AFC Asian Cup Saudi Arabia 2027 Qualifier against Hong Kong in Kochi on March 31. This match marks the team's return to Kochi after a decade. Although the game is a dead rubber for qualification, it offers FIFA ranking points.

15 Mar 2026 1:34 pm
Kimi Antonelli shatters Sebastian Vettel's record to become youngest pole-sitter in F1 history at Chinese GP

Youngster Kimi Antonelli shattered records, clinching pole position at the Chinese Grand Prix, leading a stunning Mercedes front-row sweep. George Russell secured second despite qualifying challenges, while Ferrari's Hamilton and Leclerc will start from the second row. Max Verstappen faced a difficult session, qualifying eighth. Russell extended his championship lead after winning the earlier sprint race.

15 Mar 2026 1:32 pm
'Not out of form, just out of runs': Gautam Gambhir backs Abhishek Sharma in T20 World Cup

Indian head coach Gautam Gambhir supported batter Abhishek Sharma during a tough phase in the T20 World Cup. Gambhir stated Sharma was merely 'out of runs' and not 'out of form'. He encouraged Sharma to play aggressively and fearlessly. The team had full faith in all selected players. India successfully defended their T20 World Cup title.

15 Mar 2026 12:04 pm
Kerala govt to accord reception to Sanju Samson on March 16

Kerala will honor cricketer Sanju Samson with an official reception in Thiruvananthapuram on Monday. Samson was instrumental in India's ICC Men's T20 World Cup victory and was named Player of the Tournament. The event will be held at Central Stadium. Chief Minister Pinarayi Vijayan will inaugurate the function.

15 Mar 2026 9:22 am
Tennis: Daniil Medvedev ousts Alcaraz to set Indian Wells clash with Jannik Sinner

Daniil Medvedev ended Carlos Alcaraz's Indian Wells title defense with a 6-3, 7-6(3) victory, advancing to a final against Jannik Sinner. Sinner, who defeated Alexander Zverev 6-2, 6-4, remains undefeated in sets this tournament. Medvedev's smart play and Alcaraz's errors were key in the first semifinal, while Sinner's consistent performance secured his dominant win.

15 Mar 2026 6:29 am
Just a boy: Antonelli becomes youngest Formula One driver to take pole position at 19 years

Italian teenager Kimi Antonelli has made history by becoming the youngest Formula One driver to secure pole position for a Grand Prix. He achieved this feat in China for Mercedes. His teammate George Russell encountered significant car issues during qualifying. Lewis Hamilton secured third place for Ferrari, setting up an exciting race ahead.

14 Mar 2026 11:48 pm
Lionel Messi meets with Trump, and divides Argentina

Messi-Trump meeting: On social media, in newspapers and on radio and television programs, Argentines have engaged in a near-forensic examination of Messi's body language during his appearance with Trump to dissect how uncomfortable, or at ease, he seemed during Trump's saber-rattling speech.

14 Mar 2026 11:40 pm
Rory McIlroy's back is feeling fine. It's his putter that hurts him at The Players

After a challenging week plagued by lower back muscle spasms, Rory McIlroy has secured his spot for the weekend at The Players Championship. His impressive performance on the last hole not only secured his cut but has also eased his concerns about adjusting his upcoming Masters schedule.

14 Mar 2026 11:31 pm
Kevin Pietersen says he won't be able to serve as DC's mentor in IPL 2026

The IPL 2026 is starting on March 28 with defending champions Royal Challengers Bengaluru hosting Sunrisers Hyderabad at the M Chinnaswamy Stadium.

14 Mar 2026 6:32 pm
From IPL to World Cup: Indias T20 dominance built in the franchise lab

India's 2026 T20 World Cup victory underscores the Indian Premier League's impact. Players developed in the IPL formed the core of the winning squad. This franchise league now serves as a talent pool and tactical testing ground. The IPL generation is comfortable with high-pressure situations and aggressive cricket.

14 Mar 2026 5:59 pm
Womens cricket participation doubles in India since 2020: BBC-Collective Newsroom study

The study found that the proportion of women who say they play cricket has risen from 5% in 2020 to 10%. Participation among young women aged 15 to 24 has grown even more sharply, with 16% now saying they play cricket compared with 6% in 2020.

14 Mar 2026 5:58 pm
VVS Laxman recalls 'special' Eden Gardens partnership with Rahul Dravid as Kolkata Test turns 25

Former India cricketer VVS Laxman recalled his legendary partnership with Rahul Dravid in the 2001 Kolkata Test. This stand, built on belief and resilience, led to one of cricket's greatest comebacks. Australia, on a winning streak, was defeated by India after being forced to follow on. The duo's monumental partnership defied challenges and turned the match around.

14 Mar 2026 2:36 pm
BCCI to honour Roger Binny, Rahul Dravid, Mithali Raj with Lifetime Achievement Awards at Naman Awards 2026

The BCCI will host the Naman Awards 2026 in New Delhi on March 15, 2026. Roger Binny and Rahul Dravid will receive the Col. C. K. Nayudu Lifetime Achievement Award. Mithali Raj will be honoured with the BCCI Lifetime Achievement Award for Women.

14 Mar 2026 12:56 pm
India T20I skipper Suryakumar Yadav completes five years in international cricket, shares emotional message

Indian T20I captain Suryakumar Yadav marks five years in international cricket. He made his debut on March 14, 2021. Yadav has achieved significant milestones, including leading India to a T20 World Cup title. He holds numerous batting records and has a strong winning record as captain. His journey showcases remarkable growth and success in the shortest format of the game.

14 Mar 2026 11:02 am
Athletes who defected at global sports events: From Cold War Olympics to modern asylum cases

During high-stakes international sports events, athletes occasionally embark on the brave journey of seeking asylum. In a striking recent example, Iranian women's football players opted for Australia, turning their backs on the uncertainties of home.

14 Mar 2026 12:03 am
Pep Guardiola warns title bid 'over' if Manchester City lose to West Ham

In a pre-match press conference, Pep Guardiola, the mastermind behind Manchester City, has stated that a loss against West Ham could seal the fate of their Premier League title aspirations. Sitting potentially ten points adrift from leaders Arsenal, City faces an uphill battle after a recent setback in the Champions League.

13 Mar 2026 11:49 pm
Motor racing: F1 leader Russell puts Mercedes on pole for China sprint race

Russell led every phase of the session at the Shanghai circuit to take his first career sprint pole in a time of one minute 31.520 seconds. Antonelli was 0.289 slower.

13 Mar 2026 11:46 pm
IPL 2026: Rajasthan Royals to commence pre-season training camp in Jaipur on March 17

IPL Rajasthan Royals: Under the guidance of RR's Head Coach and Director of Cricket Kumar Sangakkara, the camp will focus on fostering team bonding, intensive training and planning along with strength and training sessions.

13 Mar 2026 6:44 pm
It doesn't concern us. It's not IPL: BCCI vice-president Shukla on Sunrisers Leeds' signing of Abrar

BCCI vice-president Rajeev Shukla stated the board has no involvement in overseas leagues like The Hundred, downplaying Pakistan spinner Abrar Ahmed's acquisition by Indian-owned Sunrisers Leeds. This development is separate from the IPL, where Pakistani players haven't been signed since 2009 due to diplomatic ties.

13 Mar 2026 6:25 pm
Chennai Super Kings will stop using Rajinikanth film songs in promos, franchise tells Madras HC

Chennai Super Kings has assured the Madras High Court it will cease using songs from Rajinikanth films, including 'Jailer', in promotions without a license from copyright holder Sun Pictures. This undertaking follows a petition by Sun TV Network alleging copyright infringement. CSK will seek permission or a license before using the music.

13 Mar 2026 12:26 pm
BAN vs PAK 2nd ODI: Live Streaming, playing XI, pitch and weather report for Dhaka clash

Bangladesh vs Pakistan 2nd ODI predicted playing 11: Bangladesh leads Pakistan one-nil in the ODI series. The second match is on Friday in Dhaka. Bangladesh won the first game convincingly. Pakistan's batting struggled. Bangladesh chased the target easily. Captain Shaheen Afridi wants his team to build partnerships. Fans can watch the match live on FanCode.

13 Mar 2026 11:28 am
Trump advises Iran soccer team to skip World Cup for 'their own life and safety'

Former President Donald Trump suggested Iran's national soccer team should withdraw from the FIFA World Cup for their own safety, despite matches being scheduled in the U.S. This comes after Iran's supreme leader was reportedly killed in U.S. airstrikes, leading to claims the country might not participate. Trump's stance appears to contradict previous assurances of the team's welcome.

13 Mar 2026 9:23 am
Hat-trick hero Valverde shows City the Real Madrid way

Federico Valverde's sensational hat-trick against Manchester City helped Real Madrid put one foot in the Champions League quarter-finals, but his words after the game may prove more crucial still. Everyone will remember Valverde's goals, but scoring is not his forte -- Ancelotti even had a bet with him to try and provoke more from him in the final third.

13 Mar 2026 12:06 am
Pakistan spinner Abrar signed by Indian-owned Sunrisers Leeds in Hundred auction

In a surprising turn of events, Sunrisers Leeds has secured the services of leg-spinner Abrar Ahmed for a whopping 190,000 at The Hundred auction. This move defies earlier speculation that Indian-owned franchises may steer clear of Pakistani talents. The England and Wales Cricket Board has been adamant that nationality should play no role in player selection.

12 Mar 2026 8:54 pm
Punjab Kings unveil new match jersey ahead of IPL 2026

The new jersey follows Punjab Kings' signature red and blue brand colours, a combination that has come to represent the energy, pride and fearless attitude of the franchise. The updated design introduces a distinctive pattern that begins with the lion motif at the centre, the symbol of Punjab Kings, and gradually transitions into diamond-shaped elements across the fabric

12 Mar 2026 8:20 pm
World Cup berth secured, India now eye title triumph in FIH Women's WC Qualifiers

In a thrilling encounter, India takes on Italy in the semifinal of the FIH Women's Hockey World Cup Qualifiers. With a World Cup spot already secured, the Indian team looks to claim the coveted title. They've demonstrated impressive performance throughout the qualifiers, highlighted by standout player Navneet Kaur's scoring prowess.

12 Mar 2026 2:45 pm
West Asia conflict: Final batch of SA, WI T20 World Cup players leave India after travel chaos

Players from South Africa and the West Indies have finally left India after being stranded post the T20 World Cup. Their departure was delayed due to the closure of airspaces amid the West Asia conflict. The International Cricket Council confirmed the safe travel of all remaining players. This concludes a complex logistical operation under challenging global travel conditions.

12 Mar 2026 1:47 pm
IPL official says authority closely monitoring Middle East situation, conditions under control

The Indian Premier League is closely watching the West Asia Conflict's effect on player travel. Tournament operations remain under control. The Board of Control for Cricket in India has released the initial schedule for the 2026 IPL. Matches will begin on March 28. The full schedule will be announced after state election dates are confirmed.

12 Mar 2026 1:32 pm
IPL Schedule: BCCI reveals when the dates for next phase are coming

The Indian Premier League 2026 season is confirmed to proceed as planned. The Board of Control for Cricket in India will release the full schedule for the remaining matches once the Election Commission of India announces state election dates. The tournament begins March 28, 2026, with Royal Challengers Bengaluru hosting Sunrisers Hyderabad.

12 Mar 2026 1:06 pm
Shubman Gill set to be named Cricketer of the Year at BCCI annual gala

On March 15, the BCCI awards night will shine the spotlight on Shubman Gill as he takes home the prestigious Cricketer of the Year title, celebrating his stellar performances in both Tests and ODIs. Additionally, cricket legend Rahul Dravid will be celebrated with the Col CK Nayudu Lifetime Achievement Award, honoring his invaluable contributions to the sport.

12 Mar 2026 12:17 pm
IPL 2026: Gujarat Titans name Vijay Dahiya as Assistant Coach

Gujarat Titans have appointed Vijay Dahiya as Assistant Coach for the upcoming IPL 2026 season. This move strengthens their coaching staff. Dahiya brings extensive experience from his playing and coaching careers. The IPL 2026 season will begin on March 28, 2026. The first phase schedule has been announced by the BCCI.

11 Mar 2026 11:20 pm
BCCI ethics officer clears MS Dhoni of conflict of interest allegations

In a recent ruling, the BCCI Ethics Officer cleared former Indian cricket captain MS Dhoni of any conflict of interest regarding his involvement in the IPL. It was determined that Dhoni's cricket academies were established prior to the BCCI's guidelines, and there was no proof of bias or favoritism. Consequently, the complaint has been officially dismissed.

11 Mar 2026 11:20 pm
KKR IPL 2026 Schedule: Kolkata Knight Riders begin campaign vs MI on March 29; check full fixtures, match dates and venue

Kolkata Knight Riders Indian Premier League 2026 Full Schedule: As fans gear up for an electrifying IPL 2026 season, the Kolkata Knight Riders will launch their journey with a much-anticipated clash versus the Mumbai Indians on March 29. Following this high-stakes opener, the team will host a trio of home matches at Eden Gardens, taking on the Sunrisers Hyderabad, Punjab Kings, and the Lucknow Super Giants.

11 Mar 2026 7:54 pm
Indian Premier League 2026 Schedule: RCB vs SRH to open season as BCCI unveils first phase

IPL 2026 Schedule: The countdown to the 2026 Indian Premier League has begun! Opening the season, the Royal Challengers Bengaluru will go head-to-head with the Sunrisers Hyderabad in an epic clash. This year boasts a record 84 matches, raising the stakes higher than ever. Keep your eyes peeled for the complete match schedule dropping soon.

11 Mar 2026 7:13 pm
IPL 2026 First Match: RCB vs SRH to kick off season in Bengaluru on March 28

Cricket fans, get ready for an expanded Indian Premier League 2026. The tournament kicks off on March 28 in Bengaluru. Defending champions Royal Challengers Bengaluru will play Sunrisers Hyderabad. This season is the largest ever with 84 matches. The league runs for over two months, concluding on May 31. Playoffs begin May 26.

11 Mar 2026 7:10 pm
Cutting outside noise, staying away from social media key to India's successful campaign: Gautam Gambhir after India's T20 WC glory

Team India Head Coach Gautam Gambhir has spoken out against social media's negative influence. He believes protecting players from outside distractions was key to their T20 World Cup victory. Gambhir stressed that players need freedom to make mistakes without fear of online criticism. His focus remains on supporting his team and genuine fans, not social media opinions.

11 Mar 2026 1:05 pm
Pro Kabaddi League 2026: Gujarat Giants appoint Randhir Singh Sehrawat as head coach in upcoming season

Adani Sportsline has appointed Randhir Singh Sehrawat as the new head coach for Gujarat Giants. Sehrawat, a seasoned kabaddi coach, brings extensive experience to the Pro Kabaddi League. He aims to guide the Gujarat Giants to a championship title in the upcoming season. His appointment signals a strong focus on building a competitive team for the next PKL season.

11 Mar 2026 12:45 pm
It's uninformed and unhelpful: ICC hits back at criticism of travel arrangements amid West Asia crisis

As the T20 World Cup winds down, players find themselves stuck in India. In response, the ICC is seeking alternative travel solutions, ensuring that safety and welfare take precedence. The unrest in West Asia has severely impacted air travel routes, prompting the ICC to work closely with airlines and travel agencies to guarantee that every player can return home safely.

11 Mar 2026 11:58 am
ICC T20 World Cup: Proud father hails Abhishek Sharmas match-winning knock in Indias triumph

Abhishek Sharma's father shared immense joy over his son's match-winning knock in the T20 World Cup final. India secured a commanding victory, defending their title. The community celebrated Abhishek's success and India's triumph. This win marks a significant achievement for Indian cricket, showcasing its global strength. The nation celebrates its third T20 World Cup title.

11 Mar 2026 9:48 am
Afghanistan-SL series in UAE postponed amid Middle East crisis: Reports

Fans will have to wait a bit longer for the anticipated cricket showdown between Afghanistan and Sri Lanka, originally scheduled for March in the UAE. Due to escalating tensions in the Middle East, securing transportation and other necessary arrangements has proven too challenging.

11 Mar 2026 8:14 am
Cricket: West Indies players leave India on commercial flights after charter cancelled

West Indies cricket players are now flying home from India on commercial flights. Their departure was delayed due to international airspace closures amid Middle East conflict. A planned charter flight was cancelled. Some players and staff have already left, with others scheduled to depart soon. The Caribbean side's governing body confirmed the situation.

10 Mar 2026 10:05 pm
IPL 2026 Schedule: Tournament to be played in two phases, BCCI secretary Devajit Saikia provides big update

The Indian Premier League (IPL) 2026 is set to commence on March 28, with the initial 20-day schedule to be released shortly, factoring in state assembly elections. Defending champions Royal Challengers Bengaluru will play some home matches at their traditional Chinnaswamy Stadium, which will also host the IPL final and a playoff game.

10 Mar 2026 4:02 pm
T20 World Cup victory: Life has come full circle for Sanju Samson, says Sunil Gavaskar

Sanju Samson completed a remarkable journey in the T20 World Cup, transforming from a fringe player to a tournament star with crucial knocks in India's knockout matches. Jasprit Bumrah also delivered a stellar performance, proving to be a national treasure with his match-winning spells. India's victory marks a significant achievement in cricket history.

9 Mar 2026 2:11 pm
World Cup jeetayega? asked Surya; 'Bharosa karoge?' answered Ishan

Ishan Kishan delivered a stellar performance in the T20 World Cup final, scoring 241 runs. His success followed a call from Suryakumar Yadav and a personal loss. Kishan's cousin sister passed away days before the match.

9 Mar 2026 1:21 pm
ICC T20 World Cup: 'Gauti bhai takes two steps, I take two': Suryakumar on his equation with Gambhir

Suryakumar Yadav praises head coach Gautam Gambhir. Their partnership built on mutual trust has led to success. They always agreed on team selections. Suryakumar believes in supporting players through tough times. Freedom of speech in the dressing room is key. Honesty and understanding individual players are vital for leadership. This approach has guided the team to victories.

9 Mar 2026 12:20 pm
T20 World Cup: Is it India's 'White Ball Era'? No, else we wouldn't have lost 2 out of 3 series, says coach Gautam Gambhir

India's T20 World Cup win sparks talk of white-ball dominance. Head coach Gautam Gambhir disagrees. He points to recent ODI series losses. Gambhir stresses daily performance matters more than eras. He believes representing India is a privilege. Players must never take their position for granted. Every match demands full commitment.

9 Mar 2026 12:12 pm
ICC T20 World Cup: No place for individual milestones in Indian cricket while Im in charge, says Gautam Gambhir

Gautam Gambhir, India's T20 World Cup winning coach, prioritizes team trophies over individual achievements. He stresses that winning is the ultimate goal, not personal records. Gambhir believes in building teams on trust and faith, not hope. His philosophy focuses on the collective success of the squad. This approach has guided India to their third T20 World Cup title.

9 Mar 2026 10:12 am
Twenty20 World Cup: India thrash New Zealand by 96 runs in final to become only team in T20 history to hold the trophy thrice, and win it back-to-back

India secured its third Twenty20 World Cup title by defeating New Zealand in the final. The team overcame an early setback against South Africa to find its winning form. Strong performances from players like Sanju Samson and Abhishek Sharma were key. Jasprit Bumrah's bowling was exceptional. This victory marks a significant achievement for Indian cricket.

9 Mar 2026 12:51 am