The Times of India

Royal Challengers Bengaluru have cultivated a quiet confidence, securing a WPL final spot through collective effort and belief. Key players like Lauren Bell and Gautami Naik highlight the team's balanced strength and clear roles. Despite early setbacks, RCB's resilience and recent strong performance position them well for the final after a strategic break.

Seventeen-year-old Anahat Singh achieved a career-defining victory at the Squash On Fire Open, defeating top seed Georgina Kennedy in the final. This PSA Bronze-level title marks her 15th overall and makes her the youngest Asian player to enter the world's top 20.

India's Davis Cup captain Rohit Rajpal is concerned about Sumit Nagal's hip strain ahead of the tie against the Netherlands. Nagal, India's top singles player, retired from a recent tournament and has been undergoing rehabilitation. He is set to begin on-court training this week, with his availability for the qualifiers still uncertain.

Dozens of players with Indian roots are representing other nations at the T20 World Cup, chasing dreams they couldn't fulfill in India's competitive cricket scene. From the US to Canada, Oman, and the UAE, these cricketers, including former age-group players and even professionals, are seizing second chances on the international stage, cherishing every moment.

Arshdeep Singh's recent Powerplay figures mask his true potential. Experts suggest deploying him strategically in the middle overs, where his variations and ability to build pressure are most effective. This approach, rather than early and late spells, can maximise his impact for India in upcoming tournaments, leveraging his skill with the semi-old ball.

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The ICC has not yet taken concrete steps regarding Pakistan's potential boycott of the T20 World Cup match against India. No emergency board meeting has been called, and the PCB has not formally communicated its intentions. This leaves the onus on the PCB to clarify its stance on selective participation.

Usman Khawaja backed Pakistan spinner Usman Tariq after Cameron Greens chucking gesture sparked debate. Khawaja urged restraint, saying Tariq was cleared twice and asked critics to stop jumping to conclusions. Tariq explained his action stems from a biological elbow issue and stressed he is not throwing. Tariq remains a key part of Pakistans T20 World Cup plans.

The Bangladesh High Court questioned the BCBs failure to ensure a safe, harassment-free environment for women cricketers. It asked why such inaction should not be declared unlawful, without lawful authority, and against public interest. The court ordered BCB to implement its anti-sexual harassment policy and submit a report, following a writ over delayed action on harassment allegations.

Sri Lanka dropped Test captain Dhananjaya de Silva from Dasun Shanakas 15-member T20 World Cup squad after modest returns since his recall. He scored 43 runs and took one wicket in three games. Injured pacer Eshan Malinga was included. Co-host Sri Lanka begin their campaign against Ireland in Colombo.

Tilak Varma marked his return from injury with an all-round showing in India As warm-up against USA, batting fluently and bowling extended spells. With no visible rust, the 23-year-old strengthened his case as Indias No. 3 for the T20 World Cup, even as selection debates intensify around the second opener and backup bowling options.

Vedant Trivedi played a crucial rescue knock of 68 against Pakistan in the U19 World Cup 2026 after Indias collapse, helping the team post 252. The Ahmedabad batter showed discipline, mental strength and patience on a tough pitch. His comeback followed earlier failures, a missed England tour, and years of technical, fitness and mindset-focused training.

Pakistans decision to boycott its T20 World Cup 2026 match against India has reignited the debate over politics in cricket. While the ICC has raised concerns over selective participation, the move contrasts with Pakistans past, when teams like New Zealand, Australia, England and Bangladesh repeatedly refused to tour the country due to security fears, forcing Pakistan into years of isolation.

FanCode has been awarded the broadcast rights for the upcoming 2025-26 ISL season with KPS Studios bagging the production rights. A total of seven parties had shown interest. The truncated season gets underway on February 14 - after a five month delay.

Pakistan's boycott of the India-Pakistan T20 World Cup match is projected to cause a massive financial loss of USD 250 million. This decision risks significant revenue for all stakeholders, including the ICC and India's broadcaster, JioStar, which faces estimated advertising losses of Rs 200-250 crore.

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Harbhajan Singh slammed Pakistan's decision to boycott their T20 World Cup match against India as unnecessary drama. He questioned the logic behind the conditional approval, suggesting it's a ploy to mislead people and project solidarity with Bangladesh. Singh highlighted the ICC's rejection of Bangladesh's request and Pakistan's past revenue-driven approach to matches despite political tensions.

Tilak Varma will play for India A in one of their T20 World Cup warm-up matches against the USA or Namibia before joining the senior squad. Ayush Badoni captains the India A side, which also features Riyan Parag and Mayank Yadav returning from injuries. These preparatory games are crucial for the players' World Cup readiness.

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Congress MP Shashi Tharoor has criticized the politicization of cricket, calling Pakistan's boycott of its T20 World Cup match against India disgraceful. He urged urgent dialogue to resolve the escalating row, emphasizing that sport should unite people. Tharoor also commented on the Mustafizur Rahman situation, deeming Bangladesh's reaction an overreaction.

Carlos Alcaraz is still processing his historic Australian Open victory, becoming the youngest man to achieve a career Grand Slam by defeating Novak Djokovic. He plans to commemorate the monumental win with a kangaroo tattoo on his leg. Despite the disbelief and overwhelming emotions, Alcaraz is already looking ahead, acknowledging the relentless nature of professional tennis.

Pakistan has confirmed participation in the T20 World Cup but will forfeit their match against India on February 15. Sunil Gavaskar believes this decision might not be final, citing Pakistan's history of players reversing retirement calls due to public pressure. India is expected to proceed with the fixture as scheduled.

Babar Azam shattered T20I records, surpassing Virat Kohli with his 39th half-century as Pakistan thrashed Australia 3-0. A dominant batting display, including Saim Ayub's 56 and Shadab Khan's quickfire 46, set a formidable target. Pakistan's bowlers, led by Mohammad Nawaz's 5-wicket haul, then dismantled Australia for 96, securing a resounding series win.

The BCCI fully supports the ICC's stance on sportsmanship after Pakistan's government announced their team would boycott the T20 World Cup match against India. BCCI vice-president Rajeev Shukla stated they will await formal discussions with the ICC before commenting further. The ICC emphasised that selective participation undermines the integrity of global sporting events.

Josh Hazlewood will miss the initial T20 World Cup matches, staying in Australia for rehabilitation of an Achilles issue. Selectors prioritize his recovery over early tournament play. Meanwhile, Nathan Ellis, Tim David, and Glenn Maxwell have joined the squad in Colombo, with Sean Abbott added as a travelling reserve for bowling cover.

Former captain Rashid Latif on Pakistan boycotting India T20 World Cup match

Devika Sihag secured her maiden BWF Super-300 title at the Princes Sirivannavari Thailand Masters after her opponent retired due to injury. The 20-year-old Haryana shuttler, who defeated higher-ranked players including the top seed, expressed her delight at the significant victory, her first major title.

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Pakistan's cricket team will boycott its T20 World Cup league match against India on February 15, a move that has drawn sharp criticism from the ICC. The governing body warned of significant implications for Pakistan cricket and the global ecosystem. Sources suggest Pakistan could face expulsion from tournaments and financial penalties.

Pakistan's surprising decision to boycott their T20 World Cup match against India on February 15th has triggered procedural protocols. India must still attend the venue and be present for the toss. If Pakistan fail to appear, India will be awarded a walkover, securing two points as per ICC regulations. The ICC awaits official confirmation from the PCB.

Mary Kom released a clarification video apologising for remarks that sparked backlash, saying they were misunderstood and not meant to offend. She addressed speculation around her marriage and divorce, denied targeting football or any community, and called her comments an emotional outburst. Amid public allegations between her and ex-husband Onler, she urged restraint, dignity, and continued support as she remains committed to Indian boxing.

Pakistan government has announced that their cricket team will not play India in the group stage contest of the T20 World Cup. The government did allow the team to travel to Sri Lanka for their matches. A look at the sequence of events that led to this decision.

The ICC has raised serious concerns over Pakistans decision to boycott its February 15 T20 World Cup 2026 match against India, saying selective participation goes against the spirit of global tournaments. While awaiting official word from the PCB, the ICC stressed that fairness, integrity and equal competition are core to its events. It warned of long-term consequences, urged a resolution, and said the boycott could harm the global game and fans, including those in Pakistan.

Delhi Capitals secured a spot in the WPL Eliminator by defeating UP Warriorz by five wickets. Chasing a modest 123, Delhi's chase saw a mid-innings wobble but captain Jemimah Rodrigues' unbeaten 34 guided them home. This victory also eliminated defending champions Mumbai Indians from the tournament. Delhi will now face Gujarat Giants in the semi-final.

Despite his Australian Open final loss, Novak Djokovic remains confident in his ability to win another Grand Slam. The 38-year-old expressed disappointment with his performance after a strong start but acknowledged contentment with his runner-up finish. Djokovic hinted at retirement while thanking Melbourne for its support and looking forward to family time.

Carlos Alcaraz achieved a historic career Grand Slam at 22, defeating Novak Djokovic in a thrilling Australian Open final. Despite a turbulent pre-season, Alcaraz showcased remarkable composure and strategic brilliance, adapting his game to overcome the seasoned champion. His improved serve, influenced by Djokovic himself, proved pivotal in securing the Norman Brookes Challenge Cup.

Former Pakistan captain Rashid Latif believes Pakistans boycott of the India match at the T20 World Cup is a calculated move aimed squarely at the ICCs financial and governance structure. Linking the decision to Bangladeshs removal from the tournament, Latif argues this is not an emotional reaction but a strategic play that could reshape world cricket negotiations.

Young all-rounder Kanishk Chouhan starred as India beat Pakistan by 58 runs to reach the ICC U-19 World Cup semifinals, where they face Afghanistan. India posted 252, boosted by Kanishks quick 35 and Vedant Trivedis 68. Pakistan lacked urgency, managing only 194. Spin trio Kanishk, Khilan Patel and Ayush Mhatre sealed a dominant win.

Pakistan delivered a crushing 111-run victory over Australia, completing a 3-0 series whitewash just before the T20 World Cup. This marked Australia's largest T20 defeat ever. Pakistan's formidable 207-6, powered by Saim Ayub and Babar Azam, proved too much, with spinners Mohammad Nawaz (5-18) and Shaheen Shah Afridi dismantling the Australian chase for 96.

Mick Jaggers ode to Lucifer could very easily be retrofitted for Novak Djokovic, a figure for whom tennis fans have developed a begrudging sympathy over the years. But Carlos Alcaraz had no such sympathy. He had his own date with destiny.

Pakistan's government has officially confirmed that the national team will not participate in the 2026 ICC Men's T20 World Cup match against India. While granting permission for the team to travel to Sri Lanka, the statement indicated a boycott of the February 15, 2026, group-stage fixture without providing a specific reason.

Cricket legend Sachin Tendulkar lauded Carlos Alcaraz's remarkable composure after the young Spaniard secured his maiden Australian Open title against Novak Djokovic. Alcaraz's victory, marked by impressive patience and court coverage, makes him the youngest to achieve a Career Grand Slam. This historic win solidifies his elite status in tennis.

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Novak Djokovic reflected on an uncertain future after his Australian Open final loss to Carlos Alcaraz, admitting he didn't expect to reach another Grand Slam final. Despite the defeat, he expressed deep gratitude for the overwhelming support from the Australian crowd, calling it an incredible achievement to even be there.

Carlos Alcaraz won his maiden Australian Open by defeating Novak Djokovic, completing a career Grand Slam at 22 to become the youngest ever to do so. The victory earned him AUD 4.15 million, but Australian tax laws mean he will lose about 32.5 per cent, roughly AUD 1.35 million, leaving him with under AUD 2.8 million despite the historic triumph.

Ishan Kishan seized his chance in the T20 series against New Zealand, delivering a stunning maiden century and solidifying his claim for the wicketkeeper's role. While a potential imbalance of left-handers exists, Kishan's decisive batting has overshadowed concerns. In contrast, Sanju Samson's struggles with footwork and timing were exposed, leaving his World Cup prospects uncertain.

Carlos Alcaraz won his first Australian Open, defeating Novak Djokovic 2-6, 6-2, 6-3, 7-5 to deny him a record 25th Grand Slam. At 22, Alcaraz became the youngest man in the Open era to complete a career Grand Slam. After losing the first set, he dominated with pace and power, sealed his seventh major, and cemented his world number one status.

India enters the T20 World Cup 2026 as strong favorites to defend their title on home soil. Former captain Sourav Ganguly believes the team's current balance and depth across batting and bowling make them formidable contenders. He stressed the importance of peaking at the right time during the tournament, a sentiment echoed by India's dominant recent T20I form.