Sports / The Economic Times
Ravichandran Ashwin is talking with Chennai Super Kings about his IPL future. He may seek a release from the team. Discussions are happening before the retention deadline. CSK considers its lineup for the next season. Sanju Samson might join CSK from Rajasthan Royals. The team had a disappointing previous season. They are planning for improvements.
Virat Kohli has commenced his training in London, preparing for his return to one-day international cricket. He shared pictures from an indoor session with Naeem Amin, Gujarat Titans assistant coach, showcasing his batting skills.
Rajasthan Royals faces turmoil as captain Sanju Samson reportedly seeks a trade, potentially ending his long tenure with the franchise. With Samson's possible departure, young talents Yashasvi Jaiswal and Riyan Parag emerge as potential captaincy candidates. The franchise is in a tough spot to retain its core Indian talent while maintaining dressing-room harmony.
Haider Ali, a Pakistani cricketer, faces a UK police investigation. The probe relates to an alleged rape incident in Manchester on July 23. The incident reportedly occurred during the Pakistan A team's England tour. Police arrested the 24-year-old cricketer on August 4. He has been bailed as enquiries continue. The Pakistan Cricket Board has provisionally suspended Ali.
Jio Star India, a joint venture between Reliance and Disney, faces financial strain due to costly sports rights deals, leading to a significant increase in provisions for expected losses, reaching Rs 25,760 crore.
The nominees for the prestigious Ballon d'Or 2025 have been revealed, featuring footballing stars like Ousmane Dembele, Jude Bellingham, and Erling Haaland. France Football organizes the annual event, which honors top performers with awards for young players, goalkeepers, and humanitarian impact. The shortlists for both Men's and Women's categories were announced, showcasing talent from clubs across Europe and beyond.
Rameshbabu Praggnanandhaa, currently ranked No. 4 globally, spearheads India's rise in international chess, fueled by inspiration from Viswanathan Anand and a thriving chess culture in Chennai. Praggnanandhaa aims to become world No. 1, drawing motivation from compatriots like Gukesh Dommaraju. Financial support and the emergence of esports offer new opportunities for aspiring chess players in India.
Carlos Alcaraz, after his Wimbledon defeat to Jannik Sinner, is focused on enjoying his tennis and life off the court as he prepares for the Cincinnati Masters. Following a refreshing break in Spain, Alcaraz aims to regain the number one ranking by year's end.
England's Chris Woakes apologized to Rishabh Pant for the delivery that fractured his toe during their recent Test series. Pant responded with a generous voice note, wishing Woakes well in his recovery. Woakes was also touched by Shubman Gill's appreciation for his bravery in batting despite a dislocated shoulder during the fifth Test, which ended in a 2-2 series draw.
Former Pakistan pacer Shabbir Ahmed made allegations against Team India. He suspected ball tampering during the fifth Test against England. Ahmed suggested India used Vaseline. He wants an investigation into the ball. India won the thrilling match despite missing key players. The series ended in a 2-2 draw. India showed resilience and depth throughout the series.
The Sports Ministry has amended a key clause in the National Sports Governance Bill, exempting sports bodies like the BCCI from the Right to Information (RTI) Act unless they receive government funds or assistance. The revised Clause 15(2), tabled in the Lok Sabha on July 23, now defines public authority as entities reliant on government support, narrowing the RTI's scope.
Shubman Gill, Wiaan Mulder, and Ben Stokes are in contention for the ICC Player of the Month award. Gill had an amazing series against England, breaking records with his batting. Mulder had a great performance as South Africa's captain, scoring a huge unbeaten score.
Arif Khan, an Alpine skier from India, faces financial struggles preparing for the 2026 Winter Olympics. Despite qualifying, he lacks government funding and has had limited success with crowdfunding. Khan's determination is fueled by past hardships, including growing up amid conflict in Kashmir, and the unwavering support of his wife, as he strives to overcome obstacles and represent his country.
The Uttar Pradesh Kabaddi League (UPKL) is expanding with the addition of the Kanpur Warriors, owned by BA Sports Club LLP and led by Bhumika Vora. This inclusion aims to cultivate kabaddi's growth in Uttar Pradesh, particularly in regions like Kanpur known for its strong kabaddi culture.
Mohammed Siraj's stellar performance in the final Test against England propelled him to a career-best 15th position in the ICC Test rankings. His nine wickets, including a five-for, secured India's victory and a drawn series. Yashasvi Jaiswal's century lifted him back into the top-5 batting rankings, while England's Joe Root solidified his top position with another century.
India's cricket board will discuss Virat Kohli and Rohit Sharma's ODI future. Both are in their mid-30s. Their participation in the 2027 World Cup is uncertain. The board wants to give youngsters a chance. Jasprit Bumrah's workload is also a concern. He may focus on specific formats. The board aims to balance player fitness and team needs.
Harry Brook declined the Player of the Series award. Gautam Gambhir selected him. Brook felt Joe Root was more deserving. Root scored more runs in the series. Brook acknowledged Root's consistent performance. The series concluded in a 2-2 draw. Brook scored 111 in the final Test. He praised the team's performance. He expressed surprise at the series outcome.
Ravichandran Ashwin has criticised Ben Stokes' earlier comments about injury replacements. Ashwin suggests Stokes should be more empathetic. This follows Chris Woakes' injury during the fifth Test. Woakes' injury left England short a batter. Ashwin references Gautam Gambhir's call for injury substitutions. He also mentions Michael Vaughan's view on evolving cricket rules. Ashwin believes Stokes' words lacked respect.
Yashasvi Jaiswal, Shubman Gill, and Sai Sudharsan are being considered for India's Asia Cup squad, expected to be chosen in the third week of August. Selectors are weighing options, keeping in mind the UAE tracks and the upcoming T20 World Cup. Jasprit Bumrah and Mohammed Siraj's availability hinges on fitness assessments after a heavy workload.
Sachin Tendulkar reviewed Shubman Gill's captaincy debut. Tendulkar acknowledged Gill's composed nature under pressure. He suggested India could have varied their approach against England's aggressive batting. Tendulkar noted areas for improvement but praised Gill's overall approach. Gill concluded the series with a 2-2 scoreline. Gill also emerged as the leading run-scorer with 754 runs. Tendulkar highlighted Gill's robust technique.
Indias tour of England was expected to be a learning phase with key players like Virat Kohli, Rohit Sharma and R Ashwin absent. Shubman Gill led a largely inexperienced side, including debutants and lesser-tested names. Yet, the team outperformed expectations, winning two Tests and showing resilience.
Bengaluru FC has made a tough call. They are suspending salaries for first-team players and staff. This is because the Indian Super League faces an uncertain future. Disputes between the AIFF and FSDL have put the league on hold. The club hopes for a quick resolution. Youth teams and soccer schools will continue unaffected.
Mohammed Siraj, filled with emotion after India's thrilling six-run victory over England in the fifth Test, dedicated his 'Man of the Match' performance to the team and expressed how much he missed Jasprit Bumrah's presence. Siraj's nine-wicket haul, including a crucial five-wicket haul in the second innings, helped India draw the series 2-2.
Bengaluru FC has suspended salaries for its senior players and staff indefinitely due to the unresolved suspension of the Indian Super League. The crisis stems from a deadlock between the All India Football Federation and Football Sports Development Limited, with the leagues future hanging in balance as their agreement nears expiry. Eight ISL clubs have called for urgent talks. Bengaluru FC's grassroots and youth programmes will continue as normal, but the first teams future remains uncertain as