Sports / The Times of India
With the introduction of the 'Promotion and Regulation of Online Gaming Bill 2025', the BCCI faces potential revenue impacts due to key sponsorships from gaming companies like Dream11 and My11Circle. The board has affirmed its commitment to adhering to the new regulations, ready to re-evaluate sponsorships based on the law's stipulations.
Sanju Samson and his brother stole the spotlight early on in the season opener for Kochi Blue Tigers. Sanju combined with his brother, Saly Samson, to secure the first wicket in the match vs Trivandrum Royals. Sanju's direct throw was caught by Saly, resulting in a run-out. This sibling effort drew social media attention. It also highlighted the Samson brothers' leadership for Kochi Blue Tigers.
Dinesh Karthik has voiced his strong disapproval of Shreyas Iyer's exclusion from India's 2025 Asia Cup squad, deeming it somewhat unjust. Iyer's impressive IPL 2025 performance, where he scored 604 runs, seemingly wasn't enough to secure him a spot, even among the reserves. Karthik emphasizes Iyer's leadership and batting prowess under pressure, suggesting his omission is a missed opportunity.
Ruturaj Gaikwad, Chennai Super Kings captain, engaged in a humorous interaction with youngsters at the Super Kings Academy. He playfully teased the kids about supporting rival IPL teams like RCB and MI, jokingly threatening to exclude them from CSK. Gaikwad also shared lighthearted anecdotes about captaining senior players and dealing with teammates' struggles, before seriously answering questions about his experiences.
India's Asia Cup squad announcement has sparked debate, highlighted by Shubman Gill's vice-captaincy and Jasprit Bumrah's return. Suryakumar Yadav, fresh off a sensational IPL 2025, leads the batting. Selectors favoured recent IPL form, rewarding performers like Abhishek Sharma. Despite strong domestic showings, Shreyas Iyer missed out, emphasising the competition for spots.
Once considered Rohit Sharma's successor, Hardik Pandya's captaincy aspirations have faded due to injuries and fitness concerns, leading to Suryakumar Yadav's rise as a preferred leader. Despite losing the captaincy role to SKY and Shubman Gill, Pandya's influence within the team remains significant.
Rahul Dravid opened up about his experience working with Rohit Sharma. He praised Rohit's leadership during his tenure as India's head coach from 2021 to 2024. Dravid highlighted Rohit's care for the team and clarity of vision. He said Rohit's experience greatly contributed to his success. Dravid oversaw Indias ICC T20 World Cup triumph in June 2024.
Rishabh Pant, the Indian wicketkeeper-batter, has shared a massive update on his recovery from a fractured toe sustained during the fourth Test against England. He revealed the removal of the hard cast on his injured leg, expressing optimism and determination. Pant emphasized the importance of positivity and self-belief in overcoming setbacks, drawing on his past experiences with injury rehabilitation with a post on Instagram.
The Indian cricket team has reportedly incorporated the Bronco Test into its fitness evaluation, joining the Yo-Yo Test and 2-kilometre time trial. This new assessment aims to elevate fitness standards by focusing on aerobic endurance, and as explained by a former strength and conditioning coach, makes cheating and cutting corners more difficult.
A grandmaster chess tournament in New Delhi emphasises silence and concentration, contrasting sharply with the Freestyle Chess Grand Slam in Las Vegas, where spectators reacted boisterously to moves. Players expressed frustration with the distractions caused by the live audience, questioning whether chess is truly ready for such an environment.
Nicholas Pooran's reaction to losing his wicket in an 8-run defeat to Antigua & Barbuda Falcons in the Caribbean Premier League has gone viral. Batting for Trinbago Knight Riders, the 29-year-old was stumped by wicketkeeper Jewel Andrew off a Rahkeem Cornwall delivery. The batter fell over at the crease and proceeded to pound it repeatedly in frustration.
Indian cricket team is set to participate in the upcoming ACC Asia Cup in UAE, as confirmed by the Sports Ministry. This decision comes amidst a continued freeze on bilateral sporting events between India and Pakistan. The ministry clarified that while bilateral contests remain suspended, India will not obstruct multilateral tournaments.
The Parliament has enacted the Promotion and Regulation of Online Gaming Bill, 2025, imposing strict regulations on money-based online gaming. The law bans such games and prescribes severe penalties, including imprisonment and hefty fines, for violators. It is aimed at companies, promoters, and individuals involved in prohibited activities, aiming to combat addiction and money laundering while promoting eSports and casual gaming.
India's Sports Ministry has clarified its stance on sports relations with Pakistan, prohibiting bilateral events but allowing participation in international tournaments where both nations are present. Additionally, Pakistani teams will be barred from competing in India. The ministry is also focused on attracting major sporting events by easing visa processes for international sports officials and ensuring proper protocol during their visits.
Heinrich Klaasen recently shared a fun glimpse into the Sunrisers Hyderabad (SRH) team dynamics. In a lighthearted interaction, he playfully trolled Pat Cummins' acting skills while praising Ishan Kishan as the team's best actor, and also highlighted Kishan's careful grooming habits. Klaasen also humorously suggested Adam Zampa as a hairstyle competitor, revealing the team's off-field banter.
Prithvi Shaw marked his Maharashtra debut with a resilient century against Chhattisgarh in the Buchi Babu Tournament 2025, held in Chennai. After a top-order collapse, Shaw's 111-run innings stabilised the team, showcasing a return to form after a challenging period. This performance reignites hopes for a career resurgence as he aims to carry this momentum into the Ranji Trophy season.
Virendra Kambli, brother of Vinod Kambli, speaks about Vinod and Sachin Tendulkar. He says Vinod never felt superior to Sachin. Virendra emphasises their strong friendship. Sachin still supports Vinod. They shared camaraderie during Ranji Trophy matches. Virendra recalls fun times in the dressing room. Vinod's Test average was impressive. Sachin became a record-breaking legend. Their bond remains strong.
A Copa Sudamericana match between Independiente and Universidad de Chile was marred by extreme violence, leading to its abandonment. Clashes between rival fans resulted in numerous injuries and arrests, with Chilean supporters blamed for instigating the chaos. The incident has sparked condemnation from both clubs and political figures, raising concerns about security arrangements at football matches.
Santosh Iyer expressed his disappointment and perceived unfairness regarding his son Shreyas Iyer's exclusion from the Asia Cup squad. Despite Shreyas' consistent IPL performances, including leading KKR to a title and PBKS to a final, selectors have overlooked him. Former India assistant coach Abhishek Nayar also criticized the decision, suggesting it indicates Iyer is no longer considered for T20 cricket.
Ajinkya Rahane has relinquished his captaincy of Mumbai's domestic cricket team, aiming to foster new leadership while continuing as a player across all formats. Rahane led Mumbai to victory in the Syed Mushtaq Ali Trophy last season and expressed his commitment to contribute to the team's future success. Mumbai has potential captaincy candidates like Shreyas Iyer and Suryakumar Yadav.
Former Pakistan cricketer Basit Ali expressed shock over the exclusion of Shreyas Iyer, Yashasvi Jaiswal, Mohammed Siraj, and Mohammed Shami from India's Asia Cup squad. Ali believes Iyer's omission is particularly unjust, stating that in Pakistan, these players would be top-tier.
Lok Sabha has passed the Online Gaming Bill, banning money-based games while promoting Esports and social gaming. The move addresses concerns about addiction and financial fraud, though some worry it will drive gaming underground. The bill recognises e-sports, categorises social games, and establishes a national authority to oversee online gaming, with strict penalties for violations.
Shubman Gill's Asia Cup vice-captaincy has intensified debate over Sanju Samson's T20 future, despite his selection. Chief selector Ajit Agarkar highlighted Gill and Samson as opening options alongside Abhishek Sharma. Captain Suryakumar Yadav strongly backed Jitesh Sharma's inclusion, praising his post-T20WC performance.
Former Pakistan batter Basit Ali predicts a surprising outcome in the India versus Pakistan Asia Cup clash on September 14, fueled by his discontent with the Pakistan Cricket Board's recent decisions.
Sara Errani and Andrea Vavassori clinched their second consecutive US Open mixed doubles title, defeating Iga Swiatek and Casper Ruud in a thrilling final. The Italian duo navigated a revamped tournament format that prioritised singles stars, securing a $1 million prize.
Sanju Samson has scored most of his IPL runs at No. 3, second only to Suresh Raina in terms of overall runs at that position. His record at No. 3 is strong, with an average of 38 and a strike rate of 143 in the IPL. But fitting him in there would mean dropping Tilak Varma, which would also break the left-hand/right-hand balance India have carefully built in their middle order.
Arsenal are reportedly poised to outmanoeuvre Spurs for Crystal Palace's Eberechi Eze in a 68 million deal, with their interest intensifying due to concerns over Kai Havertz's knee injury. Despite Eze being expected to join Spurs, Arsenal matched their offer. Palace coach Oliver Glasner affirmed Eze's commitment to the team amidst transfer speculation.
Astrologer Greenstone Lobo predicts Shubman Gill will be a prolific run-scorer for India, possessing a phenomenal horoscope. While Gill's leadership has shown promise, Lobo suggests his captaincy might not immediately translate to major ICC trophy wins.
The BCCI selection panel, led by Ajit Agarkar, announced India's squad for the Asia Cup 2025, naming Suryakumar Yadav as captain and Shubman Gill as vice-captain. The exclusion of Yashasvi Jaiswal and Shreyas Iyer has raised eyebrows, with Madan Lal questioning Jaiswal's omission and Hardik Pandya's changed role.
Algerian Olympic boxing champion Imane Khelif has refuted claims made by her former manager, Nasser Yesfah, regarding her retirement from boxing. Khelif, who secured gold in the womens 66kg category at the Paris Games, firmly stated on her Facebook page that the reports are false and accused Yesfah of betrayal.
A technical error briefly removed Indian cricket stars Rohit Sharma and Virat Kohli from the ICC ODI batting rankings, causing confusion as both remain active in the format. Sharma, recently ranked No. 2, and Kohli, at fourth, disappeared from the top 100 before being swiftly reinstated by the ICC after investigation.
Aaditya Thackeray has penned a letter to the union sports minister, questioning BCCI's decision to play against Pakistan in the Asia Cup, citing national interest concerns. He highlighted past Pakistan-based terrorist attacks in India and questioned if BCCI prioritises financial gains over the sacrifices of soldiers and victims. The Asia Cup, featuring India-Pakistan matches, is scheduled in Dubai.
The selection of India's Asia Cup squad has sparked controversy, particularly regarding Harshit Rana's inclusion. Aakash Chopra questions Rana's place, citing his underwhelming IPL 2025 performance and suggesting that Prasidh Krishna, the IPL 2025 Purple Cap winner, and Mohammed Siraj, with his recent form in England, were more deserving choices.
While Shubman Gill is being groomed as a future leader, Ambati Rayudu believes Shreyas Iyer should be India's next ODI captain. Rayudu cites Iyer's calmness and success leading KKR to an IPL title, along with his ability to guide underdog teams. Iyer's consistent ODI performance, including a strong Champions Trophy and World Cup, further strengthens Rayudu's argument.
Mohammed Kaif has strongly supported Jasprit Bumrah's T20I return, dismissing fitness concerns raised during the England Test series. Kaif highlighted Bumrah's match-winning ability across formats and suggested white-ball cricket suits him better due to a manageable workload. He also expressed disappointment over Mohammed Siraj's Asia Cup exclusion, praising his form and wicket-taking ability.
The 2025 Asia Cup, amidst geopolitical tensions, will be held in the UAE from September 9-28. India and Pakistan have announced their squads, but past withdrawals due to political strife cast a shadow. Pakistan pulled out in 1990-91, and India in 1986. This year, India is in Group A with Pakistan, UAE, and Oman.
Olympic champion Abhinav Bindra supports the National Sports Governance Act, highlighting its potential to elevate Indian sports. Approved by both houses of Parliament and signed by the President, the act aims to revolutionize sports administration. Bindra emphasizes the act's athlete-centric approach, the establishment of a sports tribunal for dispute resolution, and the promotion of gender equality within sports bodies.
Mohammad Kaif has endorsed Shubman Gill as Rohit Sharma's successor in ODIs, anticipating Rohit's retirement after the 2027 World Cup. Kaif highlighted Gill's impressive run-scoring record and leadership qualities, noting his Test captaincy and T20I vice-captaincy. Gill's maturity and form, particularly during the England series, have solidified his position as a future leader, according to chief selector Ajit Agarkar.
Vaibhav Suryavanshi, a 14-year-old cricketer, was bought by Rajasthan Royals. He scored 252 runs in IPL 2025 with a record-breaking century. Ambati Rayudu praised Vaibhav's talent and bat speed. Rayudu hopes Vaibhav will represent India soon. Vaibhav will join India U-19 team against Australia. The series will start on September 21 in Brisbane. Rahul Dravid will guide him.
South Africa's ODI series against Australia began with a victory overshadowed by concerns regarding Prenelan Subrayen's bowling action. The off-spinner, making his debut, was reported for a suspect action and will undergo assessment. This setback impacted South Africa's team balance, especially with Kagiso Rabada's injury.
Mark Butcher questions Jacob Bethell's captaincy for the Ireland T20Is. Butcher highlights Bethell's limited summer cricket. He points out the absence of key players like Harry Brook. Butcher suggests it disrespects Ireland's cricket. The series features players like Jordan Cox and Liam Livingstone. Butcher questions the necessity of Bethell's role given upcoming Ashes.
Following Dhanashree Verma's emotional revelations about their divorce and criticism of Yuzvendra Chahal's attire during the court hearing, the cricketer has responded with a cryptic Instagram post. Chahal shared pictures of himself with the caption Million feelings, Zero words, adding another layer to the public saga. Dhanashree's podcast comments and Chahal's reaction have ignited a social media storm.
Arjun Tendulkar is reportedly engaged to Saaniya Chandok, though the Tendulkar family has not officially confirmed the news. The intimate ceremony was family-oriented, connecting the Tendulkar and Chandok families. Arjun, who plays for Mumbai Indians and represents Goa in domestic cricket, balances his personal milestone with his developing cricketing career.
Keshav Maharaj has regained the top spot in the ICC ODI bowling rankings, surpassing Kuldeep Yadav, who now ranks third. Namibia's Bernard Scholtz made a significant leap to fourth, marking a milestone for Associate cricket. Shubman Gill remains the top ODI batter, while India's Abhishek Sharma and Tilak Varma lead the T20I batting rankings, showcasing India's dominance in both formats.
Australian leg-spinner Adam Zampa has been reprimanded by the ICC for using inappropriate language during the first ODI against South Africa. Zampa admitted to the offense, which occurred after a misfield. He received one demerit point. South Africa won the match by 98 runs, with Keshav Maharaj taking five wickets.
Lok Sabha passed the Promotion and Regulation of Online Gaming Bill, 2025, amidst opposition protests. The bill aims to regulate online gaming, delighting esports but alarming real money gaming platforms. It proposes a central regulatory body, potentially impacting cricket sponsorships and endorsements. Esports anticipates a boost, gaining legitimacy as it prepares for its Olympic debut in 2027.
Indian chess player R Praggnanandhaa has achieved a milestone. He defeated D Gukesh at the Sinquefield Cup. Praggnanandhaa is now ranked World No. 3. He has a live rating of 2784.1 points. Only Magnus Carlsen and Hikaru Nakamura are ahead of him. Praggnanandhaa shares the tournament lead with Levon Aronian. The Sinquefield Cup has a prize pool of USD 350,000.
Shubman Gill not fit to lead in all three formats | Greenstone Lobo predicts
Neeraj Chopra, the Indian javelin star and reigning world champion, will skip the Brussels Diamond League leg but has already qualified for the Zurich finals. Despite participating in only two Diamond League meetings this season, his impressive performances, including a 90.23m throw in Doha and a victory in Paris, secured his spot.
Former Indian cricketer Vinod Kambli is facing health challenges, battling a urinary infection and speech difficulties. His brother, Virendra, shared an emotional update, revealing Kambli's slow recovery and ongoing treatment after a recent hospital stay. Despite financial struggles and personal challenges, Kambli's family remains his strongest support.