The Times of India News

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.

Football legend Lionel Messi's arrival in India for the GOAT India Tour 2025 has ignited unprecedented fan fervor. Thousands greeted him, showcasing immense popularity. The tour includes fan engagements, football events, and high-profile meetings across Kolkata, Hyderabad, Mumbai, and Delhi, culminating in a meeting with Prime Minister Narendra Modi.

Lionel Messi's 'GOAT India Tour 2025' kicked off in Kolkata with thousands braving the cold for a midnight welcome. Despite tight security, fans experienced 'Messi mania' as the football icon arrived for a whirlwind tour across four cities, meeting dignitaries and participating in events.

India's T20I leadership faces a crisis as captain Suryakumar Yadav and vice-captain Shubman Gill struggle for runs. Their prolonged slumps raise concerns about their place in the playing XI, despite the team's aggressive new style. Management's attempts to address batting depth have led to unconventional tactics, leaving questions about faith in established batters.

Quinton de Kock is back and playing with renewed hunger. His break from international cricket has revitalized his game. De Kock admits he was losing his drive but now feels a fresh energy. He is focused on winning every match. This comeback shows his skills are still sharp. He believes playing all formats helps sustain careers.

Gujarat Titans coach Ashish Nehra has backed captain Shubman Gill amidst a lean patch in T20Is, urging against judging him by recent statistics. Nehra also defended all-rounder Washington Sundar, highlighting his valuable all-round skills and potential for improvement despite recent struggles. Both players are crucial to the franchise's plans.

India's 14-year-old cricket sensation, Vaibhav Suryavanshi, has become the nation's most searched personality on Google, even surpassing Virat Kohli. His remarkable 171 off 95 balls in the U19 Asia Cup propelled him to global fame. Despite the immense attention, Suryavanshi remains grounded, focusing solely on his game and taking the newfound popularity in stride.

Mohammed Siraj showcased exceptional bowling prowess in the Syed Mushtaq Ali Trophy, claiming three crucial wickets against a formidable Mumbai lineup. Despite the presence of several Indian stars, Mumbai faltered, setting a modest target. Hyderabad comfortably chased it down, securing a dominant nine-wicket victory, with Siraj earning the Player of the Match award for his stellar performance.

Vaibhav Sooryavanshi's explosive 171 off 95 balls, featuring a record 14 sixes, powered India to a massive 234-run victory over UAE in the U19 Asia Cup opener. Half-centuries from Vihaan Malhotra and Aaron George also contributed to India's record 433/6. Sooryavanshi's brilliant knock is the second-highest by an Indian in youth ODIs.

JioStar has confirmed its commitment to its USD 3-billion deal with the International Cricket Council, refuting reports of withdrawal. The media company stated that preparations for upcoming ICC events, including the T20 World Cup, are proceeding as scheduled. Both JioStar and the ICC emphasized their ongoing partnership and the agreement remaining fully in force.

A complaint has been filed with FIDE against Sarwagya Singh Kushwaha, the youngest FIDE-rated chess player. The complaint alleges unfair means were used to secure his rating. His father and coach dismiss the claims as factional politics. Kushwaha secured victories against higher-ranked players in recent tournaments. Concerns are raised about opponents being from the same academy and tournament irregularities.

Indian Grandmaster R Praggnanandhaa views the upcoming Chess World Championship Tour as an opportunity for players, not a threat to the traditional World Championship. He believes the World Championship remains the ultimate priority, especially with the tour winner qualifying for the Candidates. Praggnanandhaa also highlighted the growing excitement and interest in chess across India.

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The Global Chess League's third season kicks off in Mumbai with the American Gambits featuring Hikaru Nakamura as their Icon player. The team, boasting a strong lineup including World Rapid Champion Volodar Murzin, faces PBG Alaskan Knights in their opening match, a highly anticipated duel against World Champion Gukesh D.

Vaibhav Sooryavanshi smashed an incredible 171 off 95 balls, including fourteen sixes, setting a new U-19 world record in India's 433/6 against UAE. The 14-year-old's dominant innings, marked by a witty exchange with the wicketkeeper, propelled India to a commanding position. His performance also secured a tournament record for most sixes in a single U-19 Asia Cup innings.

As LSG head into the IPL 2026 Auction with Rs 22.95 crore purse, they are entering a tricky stage of building their squad. They have released two key players at the same time. David Millers exit has left a clear gap in the finishing role, while letting go of Ravi Bishnoi has created a big hole in their spin attack.

Lionel Messi is set to visit India for the 'GOAT India Tour 2025', his first trip since 2011, but this time without any competitive matches. The tour focuses on promotional events and appearances across Kolkata, Hyderabad, Mumbai, and New Delhi, including meetings with dignitaries and a charity fashion show.

Legendary pacer James Anderson, 43, has officially taken the reins as Lancashire's County Championship captain. Following a distinguished international career, Anderson, who debuted for Lancashire in 2002, will lead the Division Two side full-time after a successful stint as interim captain. He expressed honour and excitement for the upcoming season, with promotion to Division One being the primary goal.

Former India cricketer Irfan Pathan believes Shubman Gill is under immense pressure due to his recent T20I struggles, with the T20 World Cup approaching. Pathan emphasized that Gill must score runs to secure his place, especially with Sanju Samson waiting in the wings. Gill's form is crucial for the team's powerplay starts and his leadership role.