The Times of India

Music composer Palash Muchhal has filed a Rs 10 crore criminal defamation case against Marathi actor-producer Vidnyan Mane. Mane had accused Muchhal of cheating and financial fraud amounting to over Rs 40 lakh, claims the composer refutes as baseless and damaging to his reputation.

Legendary spinner Anil Kumble backs Varun Chakravarthy to lead India's spin attack at the T20 World Cup, believing his bowling style will better handle evening dew. Kumble expressed confidence in India's strong form and squad depth, stating they have a great chance to achieve a rare title defense in the upcoming tournament.

Jos Buttler achieved a significant milestone, becoming the second England player to play 400 international matches during the third ODI against Sri Lanka. The wicketkeeper-batter has amassed over 12,000 international runs, solidifying his status as a key white-ball player. Buttler is also slated to participate in the ICC Men's T20 World Cup 2026.

Launched with IPL-style ambition, the Indian Super League has battled financial losses, governance uncertainty and structural change. With AIFF set to take control, the hastily organised 202526 season has become a decisive test.

New Zealand's bowlers are struggling against India's aggressive top order, with Abhishek Sharma, Ishan Kishan, and Suryakumar Yadav scoring at a high strike rate. Bowling coach Jacob Oram urged his players to embrace the challenge and learn to counter the Indian batters, comparing their hitting to Sanath Jayasuriya's style.

Eighteen years ago, a 20-year-old Novak Djokovic achieved his first Grand Slam title at the Australian Open, ending the Federer-Nadal dominance. This victory marked the start of his record-breaking career, now spanning almost two decades and 24 major titles. Still competing at 38, Djokovic continues to chase further historical achievements.

Sarfaraz Khan is making a strong case for a return to the Indian team with exceptional domestic performances after a period of transformation. His recent prolific run-scoring, including a 227 in the Ranji Trophy, has garnered attention. Encouragement from former captain Mohammad Azharuddin, who praised his attacking intent and desire to learn, further bolsters his prospects for another opportunity.

Former Pakistan spinner Saqlain Mushtaq has strongly criticized the intrusion of politics into cricket, asserting it harms both the sport and humanity. He emphasized cricket's role in fostering unity, lamenting the prolonged absence of India-Pakistan bilateral series. Mushtaq believes politics is detrimental, turning cricket into a battleground instead of entertainment.

The ICC is revising its media accreditation for Bangladeshi journalists after the team's withdrawal from the T20 World Cup due to security concerns. Several journalists reported rejections, prompting the ICC to rework the process. The Bangladesh Cricket Board is seeking clarification from the ICC on the accreditation changes.

KL Rahul acknowledges his career hasn't fully met expectations but has found stability as India's reliable No. 5 ODI batter. He discussed retirement pragmatically, highlighting the mental toll of injuries as the toughest challenge. Rahul emphasised a balanced perspective, especially after becoming a father, seeing life beyond cricket. He's now set for domestic duty with Karnataka.

Cricket Scotland's CEO is confident players will reach India for the T20 World Cup despite visa delays, especially for Pakistan-origin pacer Safyaan Sharif. The ICC and BCCI are working to expedite the process for all 20 teams, with Scotland's opening match on February 7th. Scotland is also preparing backup visa applications.

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Indian all-rounder Hardik Pandya celebrated a decade in international cricket, marking the milestone with an emotional message on Instagram. He expressed gratitude for his journey, emphasising that his career is far from over and that he is just beginning his true path. Pandya highlighted his growth as a cricketer and a man while serving his country.

Ravi Bishnoi made a surprising comeback to the Indian T20I side, replacing Washington Sundar and Varun Chakravarthy. He delivered an impressive performance in his return match, taking two crucial wickets and showcasing his pace and accuracy. Bishnoi attributed his success to focused work on his bowling lengths during his time away from the national team.

Jasprit Bumrah showcased his exceptional control and wicket-taking ability in the T20 against New Zealand, delivering a match-winning performance. Despite being used in varied roles, Bumrah's spell of 4-0-17-3 restricted the opposition and earned him Player of the Match. The bowler also reflected on his decade-long international career.

BCCI vice-president Rajeev Shukla accused Pakistan of instigating Bangladesh's refusal to play T20 World Cup matches in India, leading to Scotland's inclusion in the tournament. Shukla asserted Bangladesh was assured of security, but Pakistan's intervention and misleading tactics aggravated the situation. This comes amid Pakistan's own deliberation over participating in the tournament.

Scotland has announced their 15-member squad for the ICC Men's T20 World Cup 2026, set to begin on February 7 in India and Sri Lanka. The European side secured a spot after Bangladesh withdrew, and they are now preparing to compete in their seventh T20 World Cup.

Cricket Scotland's CEO expressed sympathy for Bangladesh after their ICC Men's T20 World Cup 2026 replacement, acknowledging the unusual circumstances. Bangladesh were removed for refusing to play under the published schedule, a request the ICC denied due to security assurances. Scotland, ranked 14th, step in, despite their own qualification campaign not going as planned.

Top seed Aryna Sabalenka stormed into the Australian Open semi-finals, overpowering American teenager Iva Jovic 6-3, 6-0. The Belarusian's dominant performance, despite scorching heat, sets her up for a potential third Melbourne title. Jovic's impressive run ended against the formidable world number one, who showcased her powerful game.

Suryakumar Yadav's recent form with two consecutive fifties has silenced doubts ahead of the T20 World Cup. After a lean patch, a crucial innings in Raipur saw him bat with patience, assessing conditions before unleashing his signature strokeplay. This resurgence provides vital reassurance for the Indian team management.

Nat Sciver-Brunt etched her name in WPL history, smashing the tournament's inaugural century with an unbeaten 100 against Royal Challengers Bengaluru. This remarkable feat propelled her to the top of the season's run charts and solidified her status as a dominant force in women's cricket. Her stellar performance anchored Mumbai Indians' innings, setting a formidable target.

Pakistan's T20 World Cup participation hangs in the balance, with a decision on playing against co-hosts India delayed until at least Friday. Discussions are underway regarding a potential boycott in solidarity with Bangladesh, who were removed from the tournament. Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif has directed the cricket board to explore all options.

Hardik Pandya's decade in Indian cricket has been a journey of impact and resilience, marked by explosive starts, physical setbacks, and leadership roles. From a costly debut over to crucial World Cup final performances, his career showcases volatility, scrutiny, and a consistent ability to influence games with both bat and ball.

Bihar secured a dominant 568-run victory over Manipur in the Plate final, earning a promotion back to the Ranji Trophy Elite Group. Piyush Singh's unbeaten double century and strong bowling performances from Suraj Kashyap and Himanshu Singh were instrumental in their crushing win.

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Sanju Samson's T20I career is plagued by inconsistency despite his talent. Experts point to a technical issue with bat-speed adjustment and mental pressure from competition. While suited for the top order, a lack of clarity and over-reliance on off-side play are highlighted as key challenges needing better management.

Lorenzo Musetti, ranked world No. 5, advanced to his fourth major quarter-final at the Australian Open with a strong performance against Taylor Fritz. He now faces a significant challenge in a generational clash against Novak Djokovic, aiming to disrupt the established order in men's tennis.

Aakash Chopra highlighted Ishan Kishan's strong T20I form against New Zealand, contrasting it with Sanju Samson's struggles. Kishan's consistent performances and Samson's recent dismissals raise questions about India's wicketkeeper-batter choice, especially with Tilak Varma's potential return.

Pakistan's T20 World Cup 2026 participation is under scrutiny following Bangladesh's exclusion. PCB chairman Mohsin Naqvi will meet the squad amidst growing concerns. Former cricketer Kamran Akmal stressed Pakistan's necessity in the global event, urging against politics in cricket and highlighting the financial impact of their potential absence.

Sunil Gavaskar views India's T20I series win against New Zealand as crucial preparation for their World Cup defense. He highlighted the team's depth and focus on range-hitting, even with players yet to bat significantly. Gavaskar also praised Abhishek Sharma's rapid half-century and Suryakumar Yadav's timely knock.

Members of the Indian sports fraternity extended Republic Day greetings on social media, emphasizing the importance of the Constitution, unity, and national duty. Athletes and sports bodies shared messages on platforms like X and Instagram, celebrating India's 77th Republic Day and expressing pride in their nation.

Cricket fraternity mourns the loss of IS Bindra, a pivotal figure in Indian cricket administration. Veteran administrator Prof Ratnakar Shetty lauded Bindra's immense contributions, including strengthening Asian cricket ties, successfully hosting World Cups, and leading the BCCI's fight for broadcasting rights. Bindra also played a crucial role in the IPL's inception and guiding its early stages.

Former India all-rounder Irfan Pathan believes the current Indian T20 side is almost impossible to beat following their dominant series win against New Zealand. Pathan highlighted the team's fearless, ultra-aggressive batting approach, which he feels intimidates rivals and leaves them with o margin for error ahead of the 2026 T20 World Cup.

New Zealand's Mark Chapman lauded Abhishek Sharma's explosive six-hitting, attributing it to sharp awareness and planning rather than just aggression. Sharma's blistering form, including a 14-ball fifty, has provided valuable lessons for New Zealand ahead of the T20 World Cup, highlighting areas for improvement in their own game.

Vikram Reddy Sudini's unfulfilled cricket dream found new life through his son, Nitish. The 18-year-old made history by becoming the first USA player to score an Under-19 World Cup century, remaining unbeaten on 117 against New Zealand. This achievement fulfilled his father's long-held aspiration, with Nitish now aiming to represent the USA senior team.

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Shreyas Iyer will continue to be with India T20I team for the remaining two T20Is vs New Zealand as Tilak Varma's return to competitive cricket has been delayed. Iyer was initially picked for only the first three games but will now continue to be with the side for remainder of the series.

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Abhishek Sharmas explosive rise has reshaped Indias T20 blueprint. With a strike rate touching 200, fear factor in the powerplay and consistency to match intent, the left-hander has become indispensable to Indias T20 World Cup title defence. Beyond numbers, it is the psychological impact he creates that gives India a decisive edge.

India secured an eight-wicket victory over New Zealand, clinching the T20I series 3-0. Abhishek Sharma's rapid 14-ball fifty and Suryakumar Yadav's attacking half-century powered India's chase, completing the target in just 10 overs. This dominant performance highlighted India's batting prowess and sealed a memorable series win.

India secured the T20I series with two games remaining. Jasprit Bumrah stated his focus is on team contribution, not ball preference. He delivered a strong performance with three wickets. Abhishek Sharma and Suryakumar Yadav led the chase with powerful batting. Bumrah also marked ten years in international cricket, reflecting on his journey.