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The Times of India News

Sports / The Times of India

'Nothing wrong with that': Harbhajan on Gambhir and split coaching

The New Zealand whitewash also marked the end of Indias dominant Test era, which had been safeguarded by leaders like MS Dhoni, Virat Kohli, and Rohit Sharma for over a decade. The loss cost a once well-settled Indian side a place in the ICC World Test Championship 2025 final. The latest setback against South Africa could similarly jeopardize Indias berth in the marquee one-off Test championship clash, depending on upcoming results.

6 Jan 2026 2:29 pm
How Netherlands pre-WW II tourney inspired India's only Super Rapid & Blitz event

Kolkata has become a vibrant hub for world chess, hosting an elite rapid and blitz tournament with roots tracing back to a Dutch steel company's initiative in 1938. This annual spectacle, now in its seventh edition, showcases top international and Indian talent, fostering a strong sporting culture and engaging a passionate audience.

6 Jan 2026 2:06 pm
Ashes: Head, Smith centuries put Australia on top at SCG

Travis Head's explosive 163 and Steve Smith's steady 129 powered Australia to a commanding 134-run lead over England on day three. Head's third century of the series, coupled with Smith's maiden hundred, put Australia in a dominant position. England, already having lost the Ashes, struggled to contain the Australian batsmen.

6 Jan 2026 1:25 pm
Steve Smith overtakes Don Bradman: Now behind only Kohli and Tendulkar

Australia's Steven Smith has become cricket's highest run-scorer against England, surpassing Don Bradman with his 37th Test century. This remarkable achievement places him behind only Sachin Tendulkar and Virat Kohli in all-time international runs against a single opponent. Smith's masterclass at the SCG further solidified his dominance in the Ashes.

6 Jan 2026 1:15 pm
SA20 breakout star Nqobani Mokoena opens up on his journey

SA20 breakout star Nqobani Mokoena opens up on his journey

6 Jan 2026 12:55 pm
Rs 9.20 cr at stake? Mustafizur set to walk away empty-handed after KKR release

Bangladesh pacer Mustafizur Rahman is unlikely to get paid by Kolkata Knight Riders after his IPL contract termination. Despite being a high-value signing, his release, not due to injury or misconduct, leaves him unprotected by insurance and contractual clauses. This situation highlights player rights issues and potential legal avenues for the bowler.

6 Jan 2026 12:30 pm
Mustafizur controversy: 'Big loss for Bangladesh cricket not playing in India' | EXCLUSIVE

Following the BCCI's directive to release Mustafizur Rahman from the IPL, Bangladesh have announced their withdrawal from the T20 World Cup 2026 in India due to security concerns. The government has also suspended IPL broadcasts, sparking debate about separating politics from cricket.

6 Jan 2026 12:28 pm
Big call, poor returns: Arjun Tendulkar's opening move backfires

Arjun Tendulkar's stint as an opener for Goa in the Vijay Hazare Trophy has yielded disappointing results, with the young cricketer struggling to make an impact. Meanwhile, Yograj Singh, Yuvraj's father, claims Arjun is being miscoached, emphasizing his batting prowess over bowling, and alleges past opportunities were denied.

6 Jan 2026 12:11 pm
Women's national team footballer, Uttarakhand cricketer fail dope tests

India's anti-doping agency has provisionally suspended footballer Ratanbala Devi Nongmaithem for metandienone. Cricketer Rajan Kumar also faces suspension for multiple steroids. Sprinter Dhanalakshmi Sekar received an eight-year ban for a second doping offense. Several other athletes across disciplines are also listed for various prohibited substances.

6 Jan 2026 11:35 am
13-yr wait ends! Kranti Gouds rise restores family honour; father returns to MP police

India's World Cup star Kranti Goud's success has led to her father's reinstatement in the Madhya Pradesh Police after a 13-year suspension. The state government fulfilled a promise made to Kranti, restoring her father's dignity and ensuring his honorable retirement. This humane gesture highlights the government's respect for athletes and their families.

6 Jan 2026 11:09 am
Cue sports loses champ Kothari: Ex-World Billiards winner and coach dies at 67

Indian cue sports mourns the loss of Manoj Kothari, a former world champion and coach, who passed away at 67 after a liver transplant. Kothari, who won the World Billiards Championship in 1990 as a wildcard, inspired his son Sourav, a current world champion. His legacy in popularising cue sports in India is significant.

6 Jan 2026 10:51 am
More than cricket: How SA20 has turned matchdays into a full-blown festival

SA20s fourth season continues to draw packed houses across South Africa, and the reason goes well beyond the cricket. From braais and live music to interactive fan zones and post-match player access, the league has transformed matchdays into immersive entertainment experiences.

6 Jan 2026 10:43 am
Vijay Hazare Trophy: Shreyas Iyer is Mumbai captain for last two games

Mumbai's Vijay Hazare Trophy campaign receives a significant boost with the return of Shreyas Iyer, Suryakumar Yadav, and Shivam Dube. Iyer will captain the side in the absence of an injured Shardul Thakur, marking his comeback after a spleen injury. Sarfaraz Khan is also expected to rejoin the squad, bolstering Mumbai's chances in their upcoming crucial league matches.

6 Jan 2026 10:16 am
Vijay Hazare Trophy: Shubman Gill to finally get game time against Goa

Shubman Gill returns to the 50-over format for Punjab's Vijay Hazare Trophy match, aiming for crucial game time. Having missed the T20 World Cup squad, Gill is set to lead India's ODI series against New Zealand. His participation in these domestic games is vital for Punjab's qualification and his own preparation.

6 Jan 2026 9:24 am
$75 million! Australian Open prize pool soars, sets new benchmark for Grand Slams

The Australian Open has announced a record Aus$111.5 million prize pool, a 16% increase from last year. Singles champions will each receive Aus$4.15 million, with significant boosts for early-round and qualifying players. This move aims to ensure financial sustainability for all competitors.

6 Jan 2026 9:12 am
Sooryavanshi storm seals series: 14-yr-old shatters Pant's record as India beat SA

Teenage sensation Vaibhav Sooryavanshi shattered Rishabh Pant's record, smashing a 15-ball fifty to lead India U-19 to an eight-wicket win over South Africa U-19. His explosive 68 off 24 balls, including 10 sixes, set up the chase before rain revised the target. This dominant performance seals the series for India.

6 Jan 2026 8:45 am
'Physically not ready': Novak Djokovic pulls out of Adelaide International

Novak Djokovic has withdrawn from the Adelaide International, citing he is not physically ready to compete. The Serbian star, who planned to use the tournament as a warm-up for the Australian Open, expressed disappointment but is focusing on his preparation for Melbourne. This comes after a period of reduced tour-level play and a recent departure from the PTPA.

6 Jan 2026 8:40 am
'Shubman was left out because ... ': Harbhajan explains T20 WC omission

Harbhajan Singh backs Shubman Gill's appointment as ODI captain, believing he is ready for big challenges and future leadership. He also feels Gill will get more T20 opportunities despite his World Cup omission. Harbhajan praised the T20 World Cup squad as a 10/10 team and highlighted the strength of India's spin attack.

6 Jan 2026 8:26 am
Mustafizur snub fallout: 'Not communicating with BCCI' as B'desh await ICC call on WC venues

Bangladesh Cricket Board has formally requested the ICC to relocate their T20 World Cup matches from India, citing security concerns following the IPL squad release of Mustafizur Rahman. BCB president Aminul Islam emphasized that their next steps depend entirely on the ICC's response, clarifying this is an ICC event, not a bilateral matter.

6 Jan 2026 8:13 am
'Don't think about ': Ponting sends big message to out-of-form Suryakumar

Ricky Ponting backs India's Suryakumar Yadav for the T20 World Cup. He praises Axar Patel's selection as vice-captain. Ponting is surprised by Shubman Gill's exclusion from the squad. This highlights India's strong player depth. Ponting believes in trusting natural game and backing instincts for success.

6 Jan 2026 5:00 am
Ratcliffe revolution fails to halt Manchester United decline

Ruben Amorim's sacking by Manchester United has exposed the dismal lack of progress since Jim Ratcliffe's arrival as co-owner promised a new dawn. Joshua Zirkzee and Manuel Ugarte have largely been peripheral figures since being signed under the managerial regime of Erik ten Hag, Amorim's predecessor.

5 Jan 2026 11:05 pm
David Miller hails Paarl Royals all-round display after dominant bonus-point win

David Miller hails Paarl Royals all-round display after dominant bonus-point win

5 Jan 2026 11:03 pm
Corbin Bosch reflects on MI Cape Towns tough night after record low at Newlands

Corbin Bosch reflects on MI Cape Towns tough night after record low at Newlands

5 Jan 2026 10:59 pm
Defender, BMW Z4 seized: ED raids 'face of fantasy cricket' Anurag Dwivedi

Enforcement Directorate conducted fresh searches on social media influencer Anurag Dwivedi's properties in a money laundering probe linked to illegal online betting. Authorities seized luxury vehicles and froze assets worth 3 crore. Dwivedi, reportedly in Dubai, is accused of promoting betting platforms and using hawala channels for illicit funds, including real estate investments abroad.

5 Jan 2026 10:33 pm
'Not playing to survive': Joe Root defends Smith after poor dismissal

Smith backed away to hit a shoulder-high short ball over the off side but found Scott Boland at deep cover. He was dismissed by part-time pacer Marnus Labuschagne for 46 off 76 balls. The new ball was taken five to six overs after his dismissal.

5 Jan 2026 9:13 pm
OTD: When 15-year-old Pranav Dhanawade stunned cricket with 1,009 runs

Ten years ago, 15-year-old Pranav Dhanawade etched his name in cricket history with an unbeaten 1009 in a Mumbai school match, shattering a 117-year-old record. This extraordinary feat, achieved over two days with 129 fours and 59 sixes, captivated the cricketing world, despite the humble setting. The innings highlighted immense stamina and a relentless pursuit of runs.

5 Jan 2026 8:23 pm
GCL: Coaching 3 Candidates in one team; Thipsays masterclass behind SG Pipers title

SG Pipers, featuring three Candidates 2026 qualifiers, defied expectations to win the Global Chess League Season 3. Coach Pravin Thipsay revealed that overconfidence on the top boards led to struggles, with the lower-ranked players ultimately carrying the team to victory.

5 Jan 2026 7:59 pm
Vaibhav Sooryavanshi smashes South Africa, hits 10 sixes in quickfire fifty

Vaibhav Sooryavanshi, the 14-year-old captain, unleashed a blistering 68 off 24 balls, including ten sixes, to power India's chase against South Africa Under-19. His explosive start set the tone after South Africa posted 245, anchored by Jason Rowles' 114. This performance highlights Sooryavanshi's formidable form ahead of the U-19 World Cup.

5 Jan 2026 7:58 pm
Kohli in a MrBeast video? YouTuber says 'trying to film with you'

He said, Hey Virat Kohli, I'm trying to film with you, while also highlighting India as one of his biggest audience bases.

5 Jan 2026 7:19 pm
'He can get under your skin': Neser opens up on StokesLabuschagne clash

Marnus Labuschagne shone on Day 2 of the fifth Ashes Test, impacting the game with both bat and ball. He engaged in a brief verbal spat with England captain Ben Stokes before being dismissed for 48. Labuschagne also claimed a crucial wicket, showcasing his bowling prowess which his teammates acknowledge as a practiced skill.

5 Jan 2026 6:14 pm
'I don't know how much is left for me': Root reflects on Ashes career and pressure

Joe Root's commanding 160 at the Sydney Test propelled England to a strong position, holding a significant lead over Australia. The captain emphasized creating positive experiences for young teammates touring Australia for the first time, aiming to build confidence and break past tour baggage. Root's century also saw him equal Ricky Ponting's record for overseas Test centuries in Australia.

5 Jan 2026 5:49 pm
Last-minute call? Kohli to miss Delhis Vijay Hazare match tomorrow

Star batter Virat Kohli has withdrawn from Delhi's Vijay Hazare Trophy match against Railways, a decision confirmed by Delhi coach Sarandeep Singh. Kohli had previously met the BCCI mandate by playing two games, scoring impressively. His absence means he won't face pacer Himanshu Sangwan before joining the India squad for the upcoming ODI series against New Zealand.

5 Jan 2026 5:47 pm
On This Day: The accidental birth of limited-over cricket at the MCG

Fifty-five years ago, a rain-hit Test match unexpectedly birthed One-Day International cricket. England posted 190, and Australia, chasing 191, secured a five-wicket victory at the MCG. This accidental innovation, witnessed by 46,000 fans, paved the way for the World Cup and revolutionised the sport, leading to today's T20 era.

5 Jan 2026 4:34 pm
No more 3-4-3: Manchester United sack head coach Ruben Amorim; here's why

The 1-1 draw at Elland Road was Amorims final match of his 14-month spell in charge. The result left Manchester United sixth in the Premier League after 20 matches.

5 Jan 2026 4:10 pm
'Dumbest shot you'll ever see': Ex-Australia coach tears into England star

Joe Root scored a magnificent 160, equalling a record for England. However, his brilliant innings became a solitary highlight. Jamie Smith's rash shot led to his dismissal, triggering a familiar batting collapse. This moment shifted focus from Root's achievement to criticism of England's approach. The team was bowled out for 384.

5 Jan 2026 3:52 pm
'Unlucky to miss out': de Villiers explains why India ignored this star player

Former Proteas star AB de Villiers believes Mohammed Siraj's T20 World Cup snub stems from team balance, not form. He highlighted India's preference for all-rounders like Harshit Rana and a spin-heavy strategy, seeing Siraj as unlucky but crucial for future ODI plans. De Villiers feels India's bowling depth covers all bases for championship success.

5 Jan 2026 3:18 pm
Mustafizur's IPL exit sparks ugly row: BAN says no to T20 WC in India; ball in ICC's court

The Bangladesh Cricket Board has decided not to send its team to India for the ICC Mens T20 World Cup 2026, citing security concerns. Following Mustafizur Rahmans IPL exit, the BCB has requested the ICC to shift Bangladeshs matches to Sri Lanka. The global body stares at a logistical nightmare before the multi-nation event.

5 Jan 2026 2:58 pm
'He'll beat Sachin Tendulkar': Joe Root hints at another Ashes tour

With Englands next Ashes tour of Australia scheduled in four years time, Joe Root would be 39, leading many to believe that this might have been his final appearance Down Under. His acknowledgement of the crowd as he left the field added to that sentiment, but Root was quick to play down such interpretations.

5 Jan 2026 2:53 pm
Bangladesh seek T20 WC match shift from India after Mustafizur Rahman's IPL exit

Bangladesh seek T20 WC match shift from India after Mustafizur Rahman's IPL exit

5 Jan 2026 2:39 pm
Fans misbehave with Rohit Sharma; Hitman responds WATCH

The year 2025 was remarkable for Rohit Sharma. He not only amassed huge scores but also broke several records, including becoming the top-ranked ODI batter in the ICC rankings for the first time. He also reached the milestone of 20,000 international runs and led India to ICC Champions Trophy glory.

5 Jan 2026 2:21 pm
'India welcomes everyone': Harbhajan reacts as Bangladesh seeks T20 WC shift

Former India spinner Harbhajan Singh commented on Bangladesh's request to relocate T20 World Cup matches from India due to safety concerns. He stated that while India welcomes all teams, the final decision rests with Bangladesh and the ICC. This follows Bangladesh's suspension of IPL broadcasts after Mustafizur Rahman's IPL release.

5 Jan 2026 1:58 pm
Wasim Akram, Nikhil Chopra on the evolution of UAE Cricket during ILT20 Season 4

Wasim Akram, Nikhil Chopra on the evolution of UAE Cricket during ILT20 Season 4

5 Jan 2026 1:37 pm
Mustafizur row: Bangladesh government imposes indefinite IPL telecast ban

Bangladesh has indefinitely banned all Indian Premier League broadcasts and promotions. This drastic step follows the removal of Bangladeshi bowler Mustafizur Rahman from the Kolkata Knight Riders squad, a move the government deems inexplicable and angering to its citizens.

5 Jan 2026 1:14 pm
'Your four overs matter more': Bravo reveals Dhoni's masterclass in on-field leadership

Dwayne Bravo revealed MS Dhoni's astute man-management, recalling an instance where Dhoni advised him against diving to field, emphasizing his bowling value over saving runs. This insight highlights Dhoni's ability to leverage players' strengths, fostering trust and a consistent team culture. Bravo felt Dhoni valued his specific contributions, leading to greater confidence on the field.

5 Jan 2026 12:56 pm
Ashes: Head's counterattack puts Australia back in control after Root's 160

Joe Root scored a brilliant 160 for England, reaching 384. Australia fought back strongly with Travis Head's unbeaten 91. Despite losing two wickets, Australia ended the day at 166 for 2. Roots masterful knock his 41st Test century, drawing him level with Ricky Ponting finally ended when Michael Neser pulled off a superb caught-and-bowled, the seamer finishing with figures of 4 for 60.

5 Jan 2026 12:55 pm
Sikandar Raza press conference: Zimbabwe all-rounder opens up about tragic loss of his brother

Sikandar Raza press conference: Zimbabwe all-rounder opens up about tragic loss of his brother

5 Jan 2026 12:05 pm
One behind Don, chasing Sachin: Root's Sydney epic pushes him into cricket's elite

Joe Root's magnificent century in the fifth Ashes Test brought him closer to cricket's most revered records. His 41st Test hundred, equalling Ricky Ponting, and 17th score of 150-plus, place him among legends like Bradman and Tendulkar. Root's modern-era dominance is undeniable, with more centuries since 2021 than any peer.

5 Jan 2026 11:42 am
'Step up when it matters': Mustafizur's message after KKR snub

Mustafizur Rahman was bought by KKR for Rs 9.20 crore at the auction last month, a move that underlined his value in T20 cricket. However, the franchise later released him following directives from the Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI) amid political tensions related to minority issues in Bangladesh.

5 Jan 2026 11:25 am