The Times of India

Spain legend Joan Capdevila says he has been denied permission to enter the United States ahead of the 2026 FIFA World Cup final and has appealed directly to Donald Trump for help. The 2010 World Cup winner had hoped to watch Spain face Argentina alongside his former teammates, but claims his ESTA application was rejected, leaving his travel plans in doubt.

Kuldeep Yadav sweats it out... the long wait in England

With retirement speculation growing and pressure mounting after a lean ODI series, Rohit Sharma attended India's optional practice session at Lord's. Former India captain looked in good touch as he prepared ahead of the series decider at Lords.

Argentina are one goal away from setting a FIFA World Cup record for most goals scored from outside the box in a single tournament, having already matched the mark with five. Lionel Messi has scored two and holds the individual record. Defending champions Argentina face Spain in Sunday's final, with both the title and a historic milestone at stake.

Fans sing for Ishan Kishan, Rohit Sharmas gestures wins heart

Organisers promise a trouble-free BWF World Championships after addressing past issues. Heavy-duty netting will prevent bird intrusions while sealed gates deter monkeys. Stray dogs will be relocated, and security will remain on duty. The stadium has undergone renovations, including new lighting and improved facilities. This event marks a milestone in India's sporting ambitions.

Morne Morkel on Rohit Sharma, Kuldeep Yadav selection & India's pace attack

Rohit Sharma signals intent ahead of CRUCIAL Lord's ODI

Bowling coach Morne Morkel expressed confidence in Rohit Sharma's current form. He acknowledged challenging conditions for opening batters throughout the series. Morkel highlighted Rohit's experience and calming influence on the batting lineup. India's batting unit needs to adapt quicker to Lord's conditions. Breaking middle-over partnerships remains a key bowling concern for the team.

Rohit Sharma looked relaxed ahead of India's series-deciding third ODI against England, sharing a light-hearted moment with coach Gautam Gambhir during training at Lord's. With the series tied 1-1, India will bank on Virat Kohli's form and hope Rohit rediscovers his touch. A win would secure the series and India's first ODI victory at Lord's since 2004.

Kapil Dev has urged fans to celebrate Rohit Sharma's career amid speculation that Sunday's third ODI against England could be his final international match. The former India captain said retirement is inevitable and hoped Rohit signs off with a century. The retirement talk has intensified after Rohit's lean run in the ongoing England ODI series.

Andres Iniesta suggests Spain should not waste energy trying to stop Lionel Messi completely. He believes the key lies in Spain's own game and making Argentina uncomfortable. The former captain urged La Roja to play with confidence and trust their established style. Spain have remained unbeaten and conceded just once throughout the tournament. The team's collective understanding and defensive discipline have brought them to the final.

Harry Brook press conference: MASSIVE statement on Rohit Sharma and Virat Kohli

Mirabai Chanu and Lovlina Borgohain will lead India's 124-member contingent. They will serve as flag and baton bearers at the opening ceremony. Both accomplished athletes are also strong medal contenders for India. The Indian Olympic Association announced their selection on Saturday. The Games opening ceremony is scheduled for July 23.

Old enemies England and France meet in footballs most unwanted fixture, with Didier Deschamps farewell, the Golden Boot and 900 years of competitive irritation at stake. Read more in today's OFFSIDE.

India have added all-rounder Harsh Dubey to their squad for the third ODI against England after Washington Sundar suffered a hamstring injury. With the series tied 1-1, the Lord's decider promises a thrilling finish. India will bank on Virat Kohli's renewed form and hope for KL Rahul's return while seeking their first ODI win at Lord's since 2004.

The hybrid grass pitch at the New York New Jersey Stadium is a major talking point. Players and coaches have shared contrasting views on its speed and firmness. Rain significantly alters the playing surface, making it faster and smoother for matches. FIFA has managed the pitch carefully, allowing it time to recover. The final outcome may depend on Saturday's weather and its impact.

Former India captain Kapil Dev remembered Sir Garfield Sobers as a revolutionary cricketer. He stated that Sobers changed how future generations approached the sport. Kapil Dev described Sobers as one of the finest cricketers ever born. Sobers' influence stretched far beyond statistics and records, he added. The West Indies great passed away at his home in Barbados.

Inside Englands special preparations at Lords to SHOCK India

Wildfire smoke from Canada is impacting air quality in the United States. This smoke raises concerns for the upcoming FIFA World Cup final match. Organisers and meteorologists are closely monitoring the air quality forecasts. Spain's midfielder noted the visible and palpable haze during outdoor training. FIFA remains optimistic that the championship game will proceed as planned.

In a post on social media, the Indian shooter said the issue goes beyond politics and called for accountability to protect the future of students.

FIFA is considering increasing the number of teams in the 2030 World Cup from 48, which featured in the 2026 edition, to 64. The proposal was officially put forward by South American football body CONMEBOL in April last year.

FIFA World Cup final prediction: Spain or Argentina? Greenstone Lobo picks the winner

Laporta is in New York ahead of Sunday's final at New York/New Jersey Stadium, where current and former Barcelona players will feature on both sides. Spain's squad includes eight Barcelona players, while Messi will captain Argentina.

England and France will compete for third place in the FIFA World Cup 2026. Both teams suffered semi-final losses, ending their championship aspirations. Historically, England holds an advantage in their rivalry with France. However, recent matches show France performing better against the Three Lions. This game offers a chance for a podium finish and pride restoration.

Widely regarded as cricket's greatest all-rounder, Sobers died at his home in Barbados, 11 days before his 90th birthday. During a career spanning two decades, he set new standards with his batting, bowling and fielding.

Lionel Messi and Kylian Mbapp are level on eight goals in the 2026 FIFA World Cup Golden Boot race, with assists currently separating them. As France prepare for the third-place playoff and Argentina the final, FIFAs tiebreaker rules could again decide the award, just as they famously did at the 2010 World Cup after a four-way tie on goals.

PV Sindhu has reached the Japan Open 2026 final, a historic achievement for Indian badminton. She advanced after her opponent Chen Yufei retired due to injury during their match. Sindhu secured her first win against Chen since 2019, ending a significant losing streak. This marks her return to a BWF Tour title match after over two years. She will now face Akane Yamaguchi for the championship title.

Kohli took to X to express his condolences and praised Sobers' impact on the game. Cricket has lost one of its greatest. Rest in peace, Sir Garfield Sobers. Your legacy will inspire generations, Kohli wrote.

Donald Trump has questioned Thomas Tuchels tactical decision to use Harry Kane in a deeper defensive role during Englands World Cup semi-final collapse against Argentina. Tuchel defended his approach, insisting Kanes positioning was part of the teams collective defensive structure. Englands manager admitted his side became too passive after taking the lead as Argentina completed a dramatic comeback to reach the final.

Trump made the remarks during a reception at Trump Tower before a FIFA Council meeting on Friday, two days ahead of Sunday's World Cup final.

Ravichandran Ashwin questions the timing of speculation about Rohit Sharma and Virat Kohli's ODI futures. He believes selectors should have communicated any transition plans much earlier. Ashwin stated that the experienced duo's presence is still needed for upcoming tours. Honest communication is essential when managing senior players' careers. Such discussions are surfacing late, with the next World Cup approaching.

Slovenian referee Slavko Vini has been appointed to officiate the 2026 FIFA World Cup final between Argentina and Spain, marking the biggest match of his career. The experienced official has overseen major European finals and multiple World Cup fixtures. While Argentina have lost their only previous match under him, Spain remain unbeaten across four games with Vini in charge.

Argentinas World Cup final preparations have been overshadowed by a FIFA disciplinary review after players displayed a Falklands-related banner during celebrations after beating England. FIFA is assessing the incident under regulations banning political messages, with possible sanctions ranging from fines to suspensions. However, no decision has been announced, and reports suggest final-related player bans remain unlikely.

FIFA's plan for a Super Bowl-style halftime show at the 2026 World Cup final between Spain and Argentina is expected to extend the interval beyond the usual 15 minutes, reportedly requiring an IFAB exemption. The break will include stage setup, a star-studded performance and pitch restoration, prompting debate over player welfare, match rhythm and football's growing focus on entertainment.

FIFA's plan for a Super Bowl-style halftime show at the 2026 World Cup final between Spain and Argentina is expected to extend the interval beyond the usual 15 minutes, reportedly requiring an IFAB exemption. The break will include stage setup, a star-studded performance and pitch restoration, prompting debate over player welfare, match rhythm and football's growing focus on entertainment.

Spain have eased concerns over Lamine Yamal's fitness after the teenager trained separately ahead of the 2026 FIFA World Cup final against Argentina. The RFEF and coach Luis de la Fuente insist the session was precautionary, with Pedro Porro also on an individual programme. Both players are expected to be fit as Spain chase a fourth World Cup title on Sunday.

BCCI secretary Devajit Saikia has dismissed speculation about Rohit Sharma's ODI retirement. He confirmed that Rohit remains a regular member of India's ODI team. Rohit will continue to represent the country as long as he is in the scheme of things. The selectors are assessing all players for the 2027 World Cup preparations. Therefore, the Lord's ODI will not be Rohit's final match.

Bangladesh secured a commanding victory over Zimbabwe by 34 runs. This win leveled the three-match series at one game apiece. Bangladesh displayed an improved performance in all aspects of the game. Zimbabwe players dropped multiple catches, allowing Bangladesh to post 186 runs. Rishad Hossain and Mahedi Hasan took seven wickets combined to seal the win.

Hockey India's Ethics Committee has started an inquiry into complaints against Asunta Lakra. This follows a Ministry directive for a neutral probe into her allegations. Lakra has been asked to submit her defense by July 30, 2026. She claims the notice is an attempt to intimidate her during the process. Hockey India's vice-president supports Lakra and will monitor the federation's actions.

Sri Lanka Cricket reaffirmed its zero-tolerance policy on corruption following an arrest. Former India U-19 star Manjot Kalra faces allegations of corrupt practice during the LPL. The ongoing investigation will not impact the tournament's scheduled continuation. Sri Lanka Cricket pledged full cooperation with the police special investigation unit. Robust anti-corruption measures remain in place to protect the league's integrity.

The BCCI honoured Sir Garfield Sobers, a true cricket icon, after his passing. He was remembered as one of the game's greatest all-rounders ever. Sobers left an enduring legacy which will continue to inspire many. Cricket West Indies also posted a heartfelt farewell to the legend. His remarkable career redefined greatness in the sport.

Cricket icon Garfield Sobers has passed away at the age of 89. He represented the West Indies in 93 Test matches during his career. Sobers scored 8,032 runs and took 235 wickets in Tests. He famously scored 365 runs in a single Test innings. Sobers also achieved six sixes in one over in first-class cricket.

Wildfire smoke has created unhealthy air quality across New York and New Jersey. The FIFA World Cup final between Argentina and Spain is scheduled for Sunday. Organisers are monitoring conditions closely for potential weather disruptions. Spain trained outdoors despite hazardous air quality levels on Thursday. Forecasts suggest improving conditions and rainfall may clear the smoke before the match.

Spain's Prime Minister and King will attend the World Cup final match. US President Donald Trump also confirmed his attendance at the New York stadium. Argentina's President Javier Milei will watch from home due to superstition. He believes his presence at home brings Argentina luck in matches. This decision follows a tradition of avoiding presidential attendance at crucial games.

Lionel Messi and Lamine Yamal will face each other in the World Cup final. Nineteen years ago, Messi bathed baby Yamal during a charity photoshoot event. Yamal has since become Spain's biggest football star at Barcelona. Messi left Barcelona in 2021, while Yamal emerged as a global superstar. This remarkable full-circle moment culminates in Sunday's biggest football match.

Indian chess stars Gukesh, Praggnanandhaa, and Divya Deshmukh are nominated for FIDE Excellence Awards. They will compete against global talent in multiple prestigious player categories. The All India Chess Federation also received a nomination for Best Federation. Indian national teams and ChessBase India Foundation earned recognition for their achievements. Winners will be announced at the Chess Olympiad.

Former India U-19 star Manjot Kalra was arrested in Sri Lanka on Friday. He faces allegations of attempting to bribe a player during the Lanka Premier League. Kalra, a co-owner of the Jaffna Kings, was taken into custody by investigators. The alleged bribery attempt was reported by several Jaffna Kings players. Sri Lanka Cricket stated it will cooperate with the ongoing investigation.

Slavko Vincic will referee the FIFA World Cup 2026 final between Argentina and Spain. This prestigious assignment follows a past controversy involving a police raid. Vincic was questioned as a witness and cleared of any wrongdoing. He has previously officiated a match involving Argentina in 2022. His career has continued to flourish after the incident.

Pakistan all-rounder Mohammad Nawaz received a three-month ban for a doping violation. His suspension will reduce to one month upon completing a treatment program. Nawaz tested positive for a cannabis metabolite during the T20 World Cup. He admitted the offense, stating it was unrelated to sporting performance. His match records from February 7 to May 1 have been disqualified.