The Times of India

Lionel Messi, celebrating his 39th birthday, defied expectations by hitting the gym for an intense workout instead of taking a break. The football icon's dedication was evident in a viral Instagram video showcasing his commitment to peak performance. Messi's continued brilliance is central to Argentina's success in the FIFA World Cup 2026, where he has already broken scoring records.

Pakistan's Women's T20 World Cup campaign is marred by internal strife, with reports of player-management friction and selection disputes. Following a string of losses, captain Fatima Sana admitted the team played its 'worst cricket.' Allegations include disagreements over player selection and disciplinary issues, casting a shadow over their performance despite positive pre-tournament preparations.

India youngster Vaibhav Sooryavanshi's reaction to younger brother Ashirvad's latest century has gone viral on social media. Vaibhav shared an Instagram story after the 10-year-old smashed 168 off 119 balls, including 19 fours and six sixes. Already making waves in Bihar cricket, Ashirvad recently scored 103 off 87 in a practice match, drawing praise from fans and family alike.

Cristiano Ronaldo scored twice as Portugal beat Uzbekistan 5-0 to secure their first win of the 2026 FIFA World Cup. The 41-year-old became the first player to score in six different World Cups and Portugals all-time leading World Cup scorer with 10 goals. Ronaldo also matched Lionel Messi and Michael Laudrup as both his country's youngest and oldest World Cup scorer.

Excitement is building in Ireland for 15-year-old prodigy Vaibhav Sooryavanshi's potential India debut in the upcoming T20I series. His IPL exploits have generated significant buzz, with fans from across Europe eager to witness the event. Former cricketer MV Narasimha Rao believes Sooryavanshi's style resembles Gary Sobers and advises the young talent to stay grounded amidst the growing hype.

Matt Henry has achieved a historic feat, joining Jasprit Bumrah at the pinnacle of the ICC Test bowling rankings. Both pacers now share the World No. 1 spot with 870 rating points. Henry's remarkable 11-wicket haul at The Oval propelled him to this elite status, ending a 36-year wait for a New Zealand seamer to reach the top.

In a remarkable turn of events, Shubman Gill now ranks second in the ICC ODI batting rankings, overtaking fellow Indian star Virat Kohli, who drops to third. Gill showcased his exceptional skills versus Afghanistan, scoring a century and claiming Player of the Series honors. Rohit Sharma follows closely at fourth place. Kohli's injury has created this opportunity for Gill, as they gear up to face England soon.

Joe Root has reclaimed the world's top Test batting ranking, dethroning teammate Harry Brook after a stellar performance in the recent England-New Zealand Test. This marks Root's 12th stint at No. 1. He now aims to solidify his position in the series decider at Trent Bridge, where England also seeks to improve their World Test Championship standing after a slow over-rate penalty.

At the NBA Rising Stars Invitational in Singapore, Chennai's Velammal International School came face to face with the gap separating Indian basketball from Asia's best. Yet, amid defeats and difficult lessons, dreams remained intact. One player dreams of the NBA, another of an Olympic medal, while coach Shamsher Basha believes exposure and opportunity can help bridge the divide. For a team carrying expectations, the experience itself became reason enough to keep going.

Rishabh Pant's return to Delhi Capitals for IPL 2027 has been met with full backing from captain Axar Patel. Patel emphasized Pant will have complete freedom, stressing their long-standing mutual understanding. He assured Pant there's no extra pressure, calling Delhi his home. Patel believes Pant's inherent class will shine through, encouraging him to enjoy his natural game.

Rohit Sharma gets Padma Shri for outstanding contribution to Indian cricket

Daniel Muoz's late goal secured a 1-0 victory for Colombia against DR Congo, propelling them into the FIFA World Cup knockout stage. Despite a strong performance from DR Congo's goalkeeper, Colombia's second consecutive win puts them atop Group K. This marks an impressive return for Colombia, who missed the previous World Cup, with James Rodrguez also reaching a personal milestone.

Brazil faces Scotland with a mixed squad update. Star winger Raphinha is out due to injury, but veteran forward Neymar is fully fit and ready to play the entire match if needed. Coach Carlo Ancelotti confirmed Neymar's availability, highlighting his excellent training and readiness to contribute significantly to the team's performance. Neymar's return boosts Brazil's attacking options for their crucial fixture.

DR Congo's iconic living statue fan, Lumumba Vea, finally graced the FIFA World Cup stage against Colombia after missing the opener due to Ebola quarantine. Known for his motionless, statue-like poses and vibrant attire, Vea's appearance honours Patrice Lumumba, the nation's first Prime Minister. His unique tribute, inspired by Lumumba's legacy, has captivated global football fans, making him a recognisable symbol of DR Congo's passion.

Despite an early exit from the FIFA World Cup 2026, debutants Jordan have won hearts with a remarkable gesture. After their final match, the team meticulously cleaned their dressing room and left a heartfelt thank you note along with traditional sweets for stadium and FIFA staff. This act of gratitude and respect, highlighting their cultural hospitality, has earned widespread praise, making their World Cup journey memorable beyond the field.

Sanjiv Goenka's bold 2025 prediction about Rishabh Pant's future with Lucknow Super Giants has resurfaced after the star wicketkeeper-batter's 15 crore trade back to Delhi Capitals. Goenka had envisioned Pant leading LSG to multiple IPL titles over 12-15 years, placing him alongside legends Dhoni and Rohit. However, Pant's two-season stint saw mixed results, culminating in this surprising player swap ahead of IPL 2027.

Rishabh Pant has sensationally returned to his original IPL home, Delhi Capitals, in a blockbuster trade deal. Captain Axar Patel humorously welcomed him back with a classic Hindi proverb, If someone who loses his way in the morning returns home by evening, he is not considered lost. Pant's move back to DC, where he is the all-time leading run-scorer, marks a significant shift after his stint with Lucknow Super Giants.

Rishabh Pant has returned to Delhi Capitals in a significant trade deal, exchanging places with spinner Kuldeep Yadav who moves to Lucknow Super Giants. Pant's two-year stint with LSG, marked by struggles and disappointing team performances, concluded with a simple Thank you team message. This move sees Pant take a pay cut but reunites him with his former franchise after a challenging period.

Cristiano Ronaldo's Im back declaration after Portugals 5-0 World Cup win over Uzbekistan sparked contrasting reactions from football legends Thierry Henry and Zlatan Ibrahimovi. While Henry praised Ronaldos team-first mentality and evolution following criticism of his opener against DR Congo, Zlatan responded with trademark sarcasm, questioning why Ronaldo claimed to be back when, in his view, he had never left.

Croatia secured a crucial 1-0 victory against Panama, keeping their World Cup aspirations alive. Substitute Ante Budimir netted the decisive goal in the second half, capitalizing on a well-placed cross. This win propels Croatia into their final group match against Ghana with qualification for the knockout stage still within reach. Panama, meanwhile, has been eliminated from the tournament.

Australia maintained their perfect Women's T20 World Cup record with a dominant win over Pakistan, though a semifinal spot is not yet confirmed. Ellyse Perry starred with bat and ball. Meanwhile, Sri Lanka's Chamari Athapaththu smashed a century to keep their hopes alive, and New Zealand also secured a crucial victory. The tournament continues with a highly anticipated clash between England and the West Indies.

Lionel Messi and Cristiano Ronaldo have reached a remarkable statistical symmetry at the 2026 FIFA World Cup, with both stars recording an identical 20-year and 6-day gap between their first and latest tournament goals. Messi moved ahead as the all-time World Cup top scorer with 18 goals, while Ronaldo became the first player to score in six editions of the tournament.

Bengal and Delhi Capitals cricketer Abishek Porel faces serious allegations after a woman filed a police complaint accusing him of a broken promise of marriage, assault, and criminal intimidation. The woman claims a three-year relationship soured last year, with Porel allegedly backing out of marriage plans. Porel has vehemently denied the accusations, calling them baseless and suggesting they are timed with his recent cricketing success. An investigation is underway.

England and Ghana played out a tense 0-0 draw in Boston as Group L remained finely balanced at the FIFA World Cup 2026. Despite 78.8% possession, England failed to convert dominance into goals, while Ghanas disciplined defence held firm with key clearances late on. The result leaves both sides on four points heading into decisive final group matches.

Cristiano Ronaldo scored twice as Portugal thrashed Uzbekistan 5-0 in the FIFA World Cup 2026, responding to criticism with a record-breaking display. The 41-year-old became the first player to score in six World Cups and Portugals all-time leading World Cup scorer. Declaring Im back after the match, Ronaldo helped revive Portugals campaign and dismissed talk about retirement and declining form.

Cristiano Ronaldo responded to criticism in emphatic fashion, scoring twice in Portugals 5-0 World Cup victory over Uzbekistan to become the first player to score in six different World Cups and Portugals all-time leading World Cup goalscorer. The veteran also dismissed retirement talk, declared Im back, and showed little interest in discussing Lionel Messi after the match.

Cristiano Ronaldo scored twice as Portugal thrashed Uzbekistan 5-0 to strengthen their FIFA World Cup 2026 knockout hopes and rewrite national history. The 41-year-old became Portugals all-time leading World Cup goalscorer with 10 goals, surpassing Eusbios 60-year-old record, while also extending his own record as the first player to score in six different World Cup tournaments.

Cristiano Ronaldo scored twice as Portugal crushed Uzbekistan 5-0 in Houston to strengthen their place in the FIFA World Cup 2026 knockout stages. The captain opened the scoring before adding a record-breaking second goal, becoming the first player to score in six consecutive World Cups and surpassing Eusbio as Portugals all-time leading World Cup scorer.

Cristiano Ronaldo has etched his name in history, becoming the first footballer to score in six FIFA World Cup editions. The 41-year-old captain achieved this remarkable feat against Uzbekistan, extending a record that began in 2006. This milestone comes as Portugal seeks to rebound from a draw, with Ronaldo silencing critics by delivering on the grandest stage once again. His consistent brilliance across two decades solidifies his legacy.

India's men's hockey team continued their dominance over Pakistan, securing a thrilling 4-3 victory in the FIH Pro League. Despite Pakistan scoring first, India responded with four goals. While Pakistan fought back, India's clinical finishing in the circle proved decisive. This win extends India's unbeaten streak against their rivals, though concerns remain over penalty corner conversion and conceding late opportunities.

England have recalled Ben Stokes, Gus Atkinson, Jamie Smith and Shoaib Bashir for the series-deciding third Test against New Zealand at Trent Bridge after a heavy defeat at The Oval levelled the series 1-1. Stokes and Atkinson return after missing the second Test for breaching team curfew, though both were cleared of violent conduct. Coach Brendon McCullum also dismissed rumours of a rift with Stokes.

Former India cricketer Mohammad Kaif expressed concern over Hardik Pandya's persistent fitness issues, highlighting a lack of transparency regarding his injuries. Kaif questioned Pandya's long-term availability for future tournaments, including the 2027 ODI World Cup. Meanwhile, Kaif supported the selectors' decision to pick Ishan Kishan over Yashasvi Jaiswal for the England ODI series, citing Kishan's versatility and current form.

FIFAs mandatory hydration breaks at the World Cup, under the guise of player welfare, have sparked debate. While introduced for all matches regardless of weather and conditions, coaches and players argue they disrupt momentum and alter footballs rhythm. Beyond altering the game, the breaks also create significant advertising inventory for broadcasters with Fox Sports in the USA expected to rake in $250 million. At the end of the day, do the commercial interests outweigh the sporting consideratio

Day 12 saw Dictator Kylian Mbapp turn France into a weapon of mass destruction, Lionel Messi keep chasing the Golden Boot, Erling Haaland drag Norway towards a blockbuster showdown, and the Adidas Trionda make goalkeepers question their life choices. Also, Ronaldos Portugal seek redemption on Day 13. Read this and more in todays Offside.

Rishabh Pant's return to Delhi Capitals after a disappointing two-year stint with Lucknow Super Giants came with a Rs 12 crore pay cut, from Rs 27 crore to Rs 15 crore. His move highlights how IPL valuations can change dramatically. Other stars who suffered major pay drops include Venkatesh Iyer, Sam Curran, Mitchell Starc, Kyle Jamieson and Jhye Richardson.

New Zealand secured a crucial six-wicket victory against Scotland, keeping their Women's T20 World Cup knockout stage hopes alive. Despite a stellar 72 from Darcey Carter, Scotland faltered in the closing overs. New Zealand's bowlers, led by Amelia Kerr, restricted Scotland to 131. A vital partnership between Izzy Sharp (62) and Brooke Halliday (41*) then guided the White Ferns to a hard-fought win.

Cricket icon Rohit Sharma has been honored with the prestigious Padma Shri for his significant contributions to Indian cricket. President Droupadi Murmu presented the award, recognizing Sharma's stellar career as a batsman and captain. His leadership guided India to the 2024 T20 World Cup and subsequent Champions Trophy glory, solidifying his legacy as one of the nation's most accomplished cricketers.

As teenagers from across Asia gathered inside Singapore's OCBC Arena for the NBA Rising Stars Invitational, Los Angeles Lakers forward Rui Hachimura made it clear that his vision extends beyond Japan. The first Japanese player drafted in the first round of the NBA Draft wants to inspire he whole Asia and create more pathways to the league, with Lauren Jackson and Hall of Famer Mitch Richmond echoing the importance of opportunities and grassroots development.

Mumbai and Punjab Kings all-rounder Suryansh Shedge is thrilled after earning his maiden India call-up as Nitish Kumar Reddy's replacement for the T20I series against Ireland and England. The 23-year-old credited his parents and coaches for his success, praised captain Shreyas Iyer's leadership, and said he remains focused on enjoying cricket rather than having expectations.

Veteran spinner Ravichandran Ashwin has come to the defense of young cricketer Vaibhav Sooryavanshi, urging against excessive criticism following an on-field incident. Ashwin emphasized the need to differentiate between constructive feedback and personal attacks, highlighting that Sooryavanshi is still developing. He encouraged allowing the talented youngster to play freely, free from undue pressure, as he prepares for a potential India debut.

India's Sree Charani has become the No. 1 ranked bowler in Women's T20Is after an outstanding Women's T20 World Cup campaign. The 21-year-old tops the ICC rankings after taking 10 wickets in three matches, including match-winning spells against the Netherlands and South Africa. Charani displaced England's Linsey Smith, while Shafali Verma and Harmanpreet Kaur also climbed the batting rankings.

Salil Ankola, the former cricketer, has recently triumphed over a significant struggle with severe depression, leaving a rehab facility near Pune in an 'absolutely fighting fit' state. Eager to dive back into the cricket scene, he is open to pursuing coaching and other cricket-related roles. Having lost 10 kgs throughout his stay, Ankola is now prepared to start his coaching career in Pune, marking an inspiring comeback.

England pacer Jofra Archer surprisingly named KL Rahul as the most challenging batter he's faced in the IPL. Archer highlighted Rahul's prime form, stating the Indian batter's ability to score freely anywhere on the ground made him incredibly difficult to bowl to. This high praise from a premier fast bowler underscores Rahul's exceptional batting prowess during his peak years in the league.

Suryansh Shedge has been called up to the Indian squad for the upcoming T20I series against Ireland and England, replacing the injured Nitish Kumar Reddy. Reddy sustained a quadriceps injury and will undergo rehabilitation. Shedge earned his maiden national call-up following stellar performances for India A in Sri Lanka and for Mumbai in the Syed Mushtaq Ali Trophy, showcasing his potent finishing abilities.

The IPL confirmed the move on Tuesday, with Pant agreeing to a salary of Rs 15 crore, Rs 12 crore less than the record Rs 27 crore deal he received when he joined Lucknow Super Giants ahead of the 2025 season.

His comments come after India completed a 3-0 ODI series sweep over Afghanistan, shortly after the conclusion of the Indian Premier League (IPL) 2026 season.

Former England pacer Stuart Broad expressed immense excitement to witness 15-year-old Indian batting prodigy Vaibhav Sooryavanshi during the upcoming UK T20I series, admitting he might be starstruck. Sooryavanshi's record-breaking List-A fifty has propelled him into India's senior squad, drawing praise from Broad and Jos Buttler for his explosive talent and rapid rise, making him a significant challenge for England.