The Times of India News

Manchester City and Aston Villa kept the Premier League title race alive with impressive wins, closing the gap on leaders Arsenal. City comfortably beat Crystal Palace 3-0, while Villa staged a thrilling comeback to defeat West Ham 3-2. Nottingham Forest also secured a vital 3-0 victory over Tottenham, boosting their survival hopes.

India secured a commanding 2-1 series lead against South Africa, thanks to exceptional swing bowling from Arshdeep Singh and Harshit Rana. The duo dismantled the Proteas' top order, restricting them to a mere 117. Aiden Markram's valiant 61 was the lone highlight for the visitors. India's chase was then comfortably navigated, ensuring a seven-wicket victory.

Mumba Masters dominated Ganges Grandmasters with a 17-4 win. Defending champions Triveni Continental Kings started their title defence with a 9-7 victory over SG Pipers. Alireza Firouzja won a key match for the Kings. The Global Chess League Season 3 has begun with exciting clashes and strong performances from top players.

Lionel Messi's hour-long visit to Mumbai's Wankhede Stadium during his GOAT India Tour 2025 was a resounding success, delighting fans and dignitaries alike. He shared a memorable moment with cricket legend Sachin Tendulkar, presented with a signed jersey. The event also saw the launch of Project Maha-deva to support young footballers.

Lionel Messi India trip: Mumbai out in numbers for the superstar

Hardik Pandya achieved a remarkable T20I milestone, becoming the first Indian to claim 100 wickets and score over 1,000 runs in the format. This historic feat was accomplished during the recent India vs. South Africa match. Pandya's all-round prowess continues to shine, adding his name to an elite global list of cricketers.

Mumbai Indians, a formidable IPL side, enter the 2026 auction with a strong squad after a successful 2025 season. Despite a few areas for refinement, their existing talent pool, including stars like Bumrah and Suryakumar Yadav, positions them as strong contenders to end their title drought. Hardik Pandya's side looks formidable enough to take on any team.

Cricket legend Sachin Tendulkar hailed Lionel Messi's Mumbai visit as a golden moment, drawing parallels to India's 2011 Cricket World Cup triumph at the same venue. Tendulkar praised Messi's dedication, humility, and his role in inspiring young athletes, while also expressing hope for Indian football's future. The Argentine star reciprocated with a signed football.

India's Under-19 team dominated Pakistan with a 90-run victory in the Asia Cup. Aaron George's 85 and Kanishk Chouhan's 46 powered India to 240. A stellar bowling performance from Chouhan (3/33) and Deepesh Devendran (3/16) restricted Pakistan to 150, securing a convincing win. The teams observed a protocol of no handshakes.

India's Suryakumar Yadav won the toss and opted to bowl first in the third T20I against South Africa in Dharamsala, anticipating dew. With the series tied 1-1, both teams made significant changes to their lineups. India aims to respond positively after their previous loss, emphasizing fearless cricket and intensity throughout the match.

Former India batter Sanjay Bangar urged Shubman Gill to focus on stability and proper cricketing shots at the top of the order, rather than big hits. Bangar believes Gill's role is to see off the new ball and absorb pressure, laying the platform for explosive hitters. This advice follows Gill's recent struggles in the T20I series against South Africa.

Sunrisers Hyderabad face the IPL Auction 2026 marked by extreme performance swings: a last-place finish in 2023, a runner-up spot in 2024, and a drop to sixth last season. This volatility, a hallmark of their fearless approach, presents both an advantage and a persistent challenge for the franchise as they prepare for the upcoming auction.

Former cricketer Mohammad Kaif expressed concern over Suryakumar Yadav's current T20I form, deeming it a greater challenge for India ahead of the 2026 T20 World Cup than Shubman Gill's dip. Kaif highlighted that while India has numerous opening options, the captain's poor form is a significant worry as a designated leader cannot be easily replaced.

Lionel Messi India tour: Inside story of what went wrong in Kolkata

AIFF president Kalyan Chaubey has slammed the chaos surrounding Lionel Messi's Kolkata visit, attributing it to political interference and protocol breaches. He stated the event became a personal platform for the West Bengal Sports Minister, overshadowing the sporting aspect. Chaubey emphasized strict protocol adherence for international events, warning of future repercussions for Bengal.

Babar Azam's highly anticipated Big Bash League debut for Sydney Sixers saw him dismissed for just two runs off five balls. The star batter struggled with timing against Perth Scorchers, a performance he'll aim to improve upon as he seeks form for the upcoming T20 World Cup. Several other Pakistani stars are also participating in the BBL.

After three injury-hit years away from the IPL, Shivam Mavi feels reborn. Having fixed action-related side-flexion issues, the 27-year-old has played consistently for Uttar Pradesh across formats, clocking 140+ consistently.

Tilak Varma is establishing himself as a dependable T20I batter, particularly in run-chases, where his average is second only to Virat Kohli. His recent performances, including a fluent 62 against South Africa, further highlight his form. Varma has expressed his readiness to bat anywhere from number three to six, prioritizing team needs.

Yashasvi Jaiswal smashed a sensational 101 off 48 balls, leading Mumbai to a remarkable four-wicket victory over Haryana in the Syed Mushtaq Ali Trophy. This dominant chase, the second-highest in tournament history, saw Jaiswal's brilliant century, supported by Sarfaraz Khan's quickfire 64, propel Mumbai to a memorable win.

At the toss, neither Ayush Mhatre nor Pakistan skipper Farhan Yousaf initiated the customary exchange of pleasantries. After Pakistan won the toss and chose to bowl first, the two captains avoided eye contact, gave their respective interviews, and proceeded to their dressing rooms.

Lionel Messi in India: How Mumbai is preparing for the GOAT arrival | Tight security

The Pakistan dugout rose to its feet and applauded as Vaibhav Suryavanshi, who had tormented bowlers in the previous match, was sent back early. After completing the catch, Sayyam threw the ball into the air and leapt in celebration, with his teammates rushing in to hug him as Pakistan celebrated a massive early success against their arch-rivals.

According to Mehtab Hossain, things began to spiral out of control when influential people repeatedly breached security protocols to get close to Messi. Playing for Diamond Harbour was former India international Mehtab, for whom featuring on the occasion of an Argentine legends visit had become something of a ritual. He had earlier played a friendly match during Diego Armando Maradonas visit to Kolkata in 2017.

Dubai Capitals posted a competitive 196 for 5 riding on US international Shayan Jahangir's 54-ball-99 and then stopped ADKR in its blocks at 187 for 8 despite Russell hitting four sixes and an equal number of boundaries.

Lionel Messi's GOAT India Tour 2025 arrives in Mumbai, featuring a padel exhibition at the Cricket Club of India and a seven-a-side exhibition match at Wankhede Stadium. The tour will also include a private charity fashion show with memorabilia from Argentina's 2022 World Cup win.

Indian cricketers grappled with mounting pressure during an intense practice session in Dharamshala ahead of the third T20I. Captain Suryakumar Yadav and Shubman Gill focused on refining their batting techniques, addressing recent struggles. Meanwhile, South Africa, leading the series 1-1, enjoyed a day off, appearing more composed.

Former India cricketer Manoj Tiwari slammed organizers after Lionel Messi's appearance at Salt Lake Stadium descended into chaos. Fans, paying exorbitant prices, were left frustrated by mismanagement and a lack of clear views of the football icon. The event exposed significant planning and crowd control failures, leading to fan unrest and damage to stadium property.

Football legend Lionel Messi captivated Hyderabad fans during his GOAT Tour of India. He interacted with supporters and played football. Telangana Chief Minister Revanth Reddy and Congress leader Rahul Gandhi were present. Security is heightened for his Mumbai visit. This follows a chaotic event in Kolkata where fans faced disappointment. Mumbai police are ensuring a safe experience.

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Lionel Messi's GOAT India Tour proceeded smoothly in Hyderabad after a chaotic start in Kolkata. The Argentine star participated in a penalty shootout and football clinics for children, receiving a warm welcome from fans and dignitaries. Messi will continue his tour in Mumbai and conclude in New Delhi with a meeting with Prime Minister Narendra Modi.

The Global Chess League Season 3 has begun in Mumbai. Six teams will compete in 34 matches. Prominent chess players are participating. The league aims to popularize chess for a new generation. Spectators can enjoy an enhanced experience. Indian viewers can watch on JioStar. The tournament features elite competition in an exciting format.

Former Indian football captain Bhaichung Bhutia criticized VIP culture at Lionel Messi's Kolkata event, where genuine fans were denied access. The GOAT Tour's Kolkata leg saw fans express anger through vandalism after expensive tickets failed to guarantee a proper viewing of the star, leading to an organizer's arrest and a government investigation.

West Bengal Sports Minister Aroop Biswas announced an investigation into the chaotic events at Salt Lake Stadium during Lionel Messi's GOAT Tour. Fans reacted with disappointment and unrest after Messi's early departure, leading to property damage and police intervention. The All India Football Federation clarified its non-involvement in the privately organized event.

Rajasthan Royals enter the IPL Auction 2026 with a calculated strategy after trading Sanju Samson for all-rounders Ravindra Jadeja and Sam Curran. This move addresses their long-standing structural imbalance, aiming for batting depth till eight without compromising bowling. The team also seeks a frontline Indian spinner and a pace bowling addition to complete their balanced XI.

The All India Football Federation expressed concern over crowd control issues and security lapses at a Lionel Messi event in Kolkata. Thousands of fans were left unable to see the footballer due to VVIPs and security personnel surrounding him, leading to disruptions including thrown bottles and damaged stadium property.

England's Ashes tour faces another setback as security staff clashed with a Channel Seven cameraman at Brisbane airport. The incident occurred during the team's check-in for their flight to Adelaide, adding to the team's already challenging series. This confrontation highlights ongoing scrutiny of England's tour preparations as they trail 0-2 in the series.

The citys long wait to see the Argentine star did not last long. Messi was forced to end his lap of honour at the Vivekananda Yuba Bharati Krirangan after the crowd surged towards the field. Bottles were thrown from the stands, and security staff escorted him off the ground within minutes.

Football fans in Kolkata faced disappointment as Lionel Messi's event ended abruptly. Crowd management issues led to frustration and anger among attendees. Many fans expressed dissatisfaction with the event's organization and their inability to see the star. Some fans made significant personal sacrifices to attend. The event left many with unfulfilled expectations.

Chaos marred Lionel Messi's Kolkata visit as overcrowding and poor crowd control led to his early departure from Salt Lake Stadium. Fans expressed anger and disappointment, with the Chief Minister issuing an apology and ordering an inquiry. Messi's GOAT India Tour continues to Hyderabad, Mumbai, and New Delhi, with organizers now under pressure to ensure smooth events.

Lionel Messi's highly anticipated G.O.A.T. Tour stop in Kolkata was marred by chaos due to poor crowd management and security lapses. Thousands of fans were left disappointed as the event was cut short, with objects thrown and chairs damaged amid visible anger.

Shubman Gill faces a crucial three-match trial against South Africa to secure his T20 World Cup spot. With Suryakumar Yadav also under scrutiny, the Indian top-order needs a significant turnaround. The team management grapples with batting order confusion and selection dilemmas, including the potential exclusion of key spinner Kuldeep Yadav, as they aim to find form before the global tournament.

Fans erupted in chaos and vandalized the Salt Lake Stadium after Lionel Messi's early departure from the GOAT Tour event in Kolkata. Spectators, having paid hefty sums, expressed fury over the mismanagement and inability to see the football legend, demanding refunds and calling the event a scam.

Fans throw objects, vandalise stadium after Messi leaves early | Hyderabad next

Football icon Lionel Messi's Kolkata visit was a whirlwind of adoration and disruption. While a massive crowd caused chaos during his stadium appearance, leading to security concerns, fans also celebrated his legacy with a 70-foot statue unveiling. Messi's return after 14 years ignited immense enthusiasm, highlighting his enduring popularity.

Football legend Lionel Messi virtually unveiled his 70-foot statue in Kolkata as part of his GOAT India Tour 2025. The event, attended by Shah Rukh Khan and Luis Surez, saw the Argentine star honored with an iron statue depicting him with the FIFA World Cup trophy.

Aryan Sharma, an 11-year-old Virat Kohli fan who once held a placard saying, 'Watch me play for Australia in 2025,' has turned his childhood promise into reality. Now 18, Aryan has been named in Australias U19 World Cup squad.