The Times of India

India's bowling coach Morne Morkel affirmed continued backing for openers Sanju Samson and Abhishek Sharma, despite calls for 15-year-old Vaibhav Sooryavanshi's debut. Morkel emphasised faith in proven performers and avoiding disrupting batting order. He praised Sooryavanshi's smooth integration and potential readiness for future opportunities, while also commending pacers Prince Yadav and Harshit Rana for their impressive performances.

Videos and pictures of Bolt watching the match quickly spread across social media. Even years after retiring from athletics, the eight-time Olympic gold medallist continues to draw attention wherever he goes.

Excitement is building for 15-year-old Vaibhav Sooryavanshi's potential India debut against England. Despite a sensational IPL, he awaits his international bow. Legendary Kapil Dev, while acknowledging his immense talent akin to Tendulkar and Kohli, urges caution against excessive hype, emphasising the need for him to prove himself in longer formats. The debate intensifies as India seeks a turnaround in the T20 series.

Stokes announced his retirement during the third Test against New Zealand at Trent Bridge. Moments after issuing an official statement, he claimed his final wicket for England.

England has unveiled a 16-member squad for their upcoming ODI series against India, featuring maiden call-ups for uncapped all-rounder James Coles and fast bowler Josh Tongue. The return of Jofra Archer after a significant break also bolsters their pace attack. India is anticipated to field a formidable lineup, with key players like Rohit Sharma and Jasprit Bumrah expected to participate, while Virat Kohli's availability hinges on his fitness.

Morne Morkel on Vaibhav Sooryavanshi, Prince Yadav & Indias bowling plan in Manchester

Portugal secured victory through Ronaldo's penalty and a stoppage-time header from Goncalo Ramos. But the biggest talking point came in the closing minutes when Croatia had a late equaliser ruled out after a VAR review.

England has brought back Jofra Archer and handed a T20I debut to Josh Tongue for the second T20I against India in Manchester. The opening match was abandoned due to rain after India posted a strong 189/7, with Abhishek Sharma and Shreyas Iyer starring with the bat. Both teams now aim to take a crucial lead in the series.

Cristiano Ronaldo once again captured the attention of football fans around the world after Portugals thrilling FIFA World Cup Round of 32 win over Croatia. The Portuguese captain shared a special moment from the team hotel. Where he celebrated with hundreds of supporters gathered outside. His video quickly spread across social media and received millions of views.

The German Football Association (DFB) confirmed Nagelsmann's resignation on Friday, four days after Germany were knocked out by Paraguay in the round of 32 following a 1-1 draw and a penalty shootout.

Pakistan coach Mike Hesson argues his team's progress shouldn't be solely judged by results against India, highlighting the current Indian side's dominance over every team. He pointed out Pakistan's strong performance in other matches, emphasizing their significant improvement in win percentages over the past year, moving from a low standing to winning a majority of their games.

India's campaign at the Canada Open on Thursday ended after Aakarshi Kashyap and Tanya Hemanth suffered second-round defeats in women's singles. Aakarshi pushed Beiwen Zhang to three games, while Tanya lost to Riko Gunji. Earlier exits, including Kidambi Srikanth's injury retirement, ended India's challenge in Markham.

The build-up to Egypts FIFA World Cup Round of 32 match against Australia took an unexpected turn after a confrontation broke out between a member of the Egyptian delegation and a US police officer outside the teams hotel in Dallas. The incident happened as players were meeting fans gathered outside the hotel for photos and autographs.

India's surprising decision to bat first in the opening T20I against England, despite overcast conditions, is attributed by Dinesh Karthik to a lingering 'Ireland hangover' from their recent series defeat. The team posted a strong 189/7 before rain abandoned the match. Captain Shreyas Iyer also achieved a personal milestone, crossing 5,000 international runs during his impressive knock.

Deepti Sharma compared MS Dhoni to Novak Djokovic, saying both legends share an exceptional ability to remain calm under pressure. Attending The Championships, Wimbledon for the first time, Deepti called it a dream come true, named Djokovic her favourite tennis player, and said she would love to watch tennis alongside Sachin Tendulkar, Ravi Shastri and Sunil Gavaskar.

Spain has continued their impressive FIFA World Cup 2026 campaign with a comfortable 3-0 win over Austria in the Round of 32. Mikel Oyarzabal scored twice, while Pedro Porro added another goal as Luis de la Fuentes side booked their place in the round of 16 with another dominant performance.

England manager Thomas Tuchel sees a chance for destiny to favour his side at the Azteca Stadium, calling it 'karma' as they face Mexico in a crucial World Cup match. Despite the altitude challenge, Tuchel is confident England can overcome the conditions through tactical play and mental strength. He also highlighted the potential importance of hydration breaks, a tactic that proved useful in their previous win.

Algeria's captain, Riyad Mahrez, has retired from international football after their World Cup exit. The 35-year-old's illustrious career, marked by 119 caps and the 2019 Africa Cup of Nations triumph, concluded with a 2-0 loss to Switzerland. Mahrez leaves behind a legacy of 40 goals and 45 assists, solidifying his status as an African football great. His departure signals the end of a significant era for Algerian football.

MI New York defeated Seattle Orcas by five runs in a thrilling Major League Cricket contest. Quinton de Kock's 61 guided MINY to 132/8 before Romario Shepherd's 3/16 restricted Seattle's chase. Marcus Stoinis fought with 36, while Jasdeep Singh's late assault sparked hopes, but Kieron Pollard held his nerve in the final over.

Portugal coach Roberto Martinez defended the VAR decisions in his side's dramatic 2-1 World Cup win over Croatia, insisting here were no bad decisions and backing the use of ball technology. Croatia boss Zlatko Dalic criticised the officiating as very bad refereeing but admitted his side had chances to win before Goncalo Ramos' stoppage-time winner.

Spain's Lamine Yamal has etched his name in history, becoming the youngest European player to achieve 10 major tournament victories at just 18 years old. He surpassed Kylian Mbappe's record by a significant margin during Spain's dominant 3-0 win over Austria. Despite an injury setback, Yamal showcased his electrifying form, earning Player of the Match. Spain's flawless defensive record continues as they advance to face Portugal.

Cricket circles are buzzing over teenage sensation Vaibhav Sooryavanshi's delayed India debut. While assistant coach Ryan ten Doeschate advocates for a gradual integration, former Proteas captain AB de Villiers argues the Ireland series was the perfect platform. Legends like Shastri and Vaughan also voiced similar sentiments, suggesting Sooryavanshi should have been given a chance to gain international experience against a less formidable opponent.

India's endurance movement is steadily growing beyond a niche community of runners and cyclists. Record participation at road races, the rise of run clubs and a younger generation embracing marathons, triathlons and ultra-runs reflect a changing fitness culture. IRONMAN triathlete Renee Noronha and ultra-runner Sufiya Sufi are among the athletes witnessing that change, while speaking about the preparation, patience, and consistency that endurance sports demand.

Cristiano Ronaldo celebrated with Portugal fans after his side's dramatic 2-1 World Cup win over Croatia. Ronaldo scored his first-ever World Cup knockout goal before Goncalo Ramos netted a stoppage-time winner. Croatia's late equaliser was controversially ruled out by VAR, sparking protests, while Ronaldo and longtime former teammate Luka Modric shared an emotional post-match embrace.

Switzerland secured their spot in the FIFA World Cup 2026 Round of 16 with a commanding 2-0 win over Algeria, thanks to goals from Breel Embolo and Dan Ndoye. This victory marks their fourth consecutive appearance in the knockout stages, and they now aim for a deeper run, having not won a last 16 match since 1938. Youngster Johan Manzambi has been a standout performer, driving their success.

FIFA confirmed that Croatia's dramatic 103rd-minute equaliser against Portugal was correctly ruled out after Connected Ball Technology detected a slight touch by Igor Matanovic before the ball reached offside player Mario Pasalic. The decision, backed by the match ball's IMU sensor data, denied Croatia a late equaliser as Portugal advanced with a 2-1 victory.

The FIFA World Cup 2026 enters its thrilling Round of 16, with Portugal's dramatic 2-1 win over Croatia, fueled by a Cristiano Ronaldo penalty, setting up a highly anticipated clash with rivals Spain. As the knockout bracket solidifies, other confirmed ties include Canada vs Morocco and Brazil vs Norway, with England facing Mexico. The stakes are higher than ever as teams vie for a spot in the quarterfinals.

On Thursday, Croatia's stoppage-time equaliser against Portugal was ruled out after VAR determined that Igor Matanovic had made a slight touch before the ball reached offside player Mario Pasalic, who assisted Josko Gvardiol's goal. Officials used ball sensor Snicko technology to confirm the touch, sparking outrage among Croatian players and fans.

Croatia's World Cup campaign ended in heartbreak after a 103rd-minute equaliser by Josko Gvardiol was ruled out by VAR for offside against Portugal. The decision sparked protests from Croatian fans and players. After Ivan Perisic's opener and Cristiano Ronaldo's penalty equaliser, Goncalo Ramos scored the winner, sending Portugal into the last 16.

Cabo Verde's veteran goalkeeper Vozinha has issued an emotional plea for national unity ahead of their historic FIFA World Cup Round of 32 clash against Argentina. The smallest nation to ever reach the knockout stages, the Blue Sharks, are preparing to face the defending champions. Vozinha emphasised that omorrow we are one. One people, one flag, one heart beating for Cape Verde, inspiring his nation to dream big.

Born exactly 50 years after Garry Kasparov, 13-year-old chess prodigy and maths Olympiad star Pratitee Bordoloi scripted history by winning India's only medal at the 2026 FIDE World Youth Chess Championship. The story explores her extraordinary rise, analytical brilliance, disciplined upbringing, and the unique blend of academic excellence, humility, and competitive ambition shaping her journey.

Australia's Jordan Bos is a breakout star at the FIFA World Cup, showcasing blistering speed that outpaces Kylian Mbappe and Erling Haaland. The 23-year-old full-back, now a key player for the Socceroos, faces Egypt in a historic knockout clash. Bos's rapid ascent from Australia's domestic league to European giants highlights his impressive talent as the nation chases a World Cup breakthrough.

Cristiano Ronaldo and Portugal paid tribute to late teammate Diogo Jota after a dramatic 2-1 World Cup win over Croatia. Ronaldo wore Jota's No. 21 shirt after the match and scored a historic equaliser, becoming the oldest player to score in a men's World Cup knockout game. Gonalo Ramos netted the winner as Portugal advanced to face Spain next Monday.

Shabnim Ismail has made history, becoming the first bowler to take 50 wickets in the Women's T20 World Cup. The South African pace spearhead achieved this remarkable feat during the semifinal against England. Despite her early brilliance, England fought back with a strong partnership to secure a victory, ending South Africa's campaign and advancing to face Australia in the final.

Cristiano Ronaldo's illustrious international career is reportedly nearing its end, with his sister suggesting the 2026 World Cup will be his last dance for Portugal. The football icon recently became the oldest player to score in a World Cup knockout match, a dramatic 2-1 victory over Croatia. Despite facing criticism, Ronaldo's resilience and continued record-breaking performances underscore his enduring legacy.

In a thrilling World Cup showdown, Portugal triumphed over Croatia with a 2-1 scoreline, courtesy of a last-minute header by Goncalo Ramos. Croatia initially led with a goal from Ivan Perii, but Cristiano Ronaldo leveled the match from the penalty spot, making history as the tournament's oldest scorer. A contentious offside call thwarted Croatia's hopes for a late equalizer, marking a bittersweet end to Luka Modri's remarkable international journey.

Cristiano Ronaldo etched his name in World Cup history, becoming the oldest goalscorer in knockout stages at 41 years and 147 days with a penalty against Croatia. This remarkable feat also places him second overall on the all-time World Cup scoring list. His appearance also marked him as the oldest outfield player to start a knockout match, underscoring his enduring legacy.

England captain Nat Sciver-Brunt's inspiring comeback from injury powered her team into the Women's T20 World Cup final. Her record-breaking partnership with Heather Knight secured a 40-run victory over South Africa. England now face unbeaten Australia in a highly anticipated title clash at Lord's, aiming for their first World Cup win since 2009.

Ben Stokes, the recently retired England all-rounder, leaves behind a truly unique Test record: he's the only player to have batted in all 11 positions and dismissed batsmen from every spot in the order. This remarkable feat underscores his immense versatility throughout a distinguished 15-year career, marked by match-winning performances and iconic victories. Stokes' adaptability across batting and bowling cemented his status as one of England's greatest modern cricketers.

Samit Dravid's batting technique in the Maharaja Trophy drew immediate comparisons to his legendary father, Rahul Dravid, with fans noting the striking similarities. While his batting impressed, Samit is carving his own path as a pace-bowling all-rounder, having excelled in age-group cricket. Meanwhile, younger brother Anvay Dravid is also making strides as a wicketkeeper-batter, recently selected for India's U-19 squad.

Berrettini, who had slipped out of the top 100 in May, lit up Centre Court to knock out the gifted Frenchman Arthur Fils, the 20th seed, 6-4, 7-5, 3-6, 6-3 and storm into the third round at Wimbledon.

Rajasthan Cricket Association's ad hoc committee has been dissolved by the High Court, paving the way for democratic elections within three months. A sole administrator has been appointed to oversee this process. This judicial intervention is expected to revive stalled projects like the Chonp stadium and secure the Rajasthan Royals' IPL home matches in Jaipur, addressing long-standing administrative and financial disputes.

The plan is to shrink draw sizes, which currently stand at 16 for doubles and 28 for singles at ATP 250 events. At the 500 level, it is 16 for doubles and 32 for singles, while Masters 1000 tournaments feature 16 for doubles and 32 for singles. That could be reduced to eight teams at ATP 250 and 500 events, and 16 teams at Masters 1000 level.

Perry retired hurt during Australia's semi-final win over West Indies at The Oval after feeling what the team described as minor quad awareness. She walked off after facing seven balls, with Australia later saying the decision was taken as a precaution because they were in control of the match.

India leads the global list of dope offenders, prompting the Sports Ministry to announce the National Anti-Doping Bill will be tabled in Parliament's Monsoon Session. The amended bill proposes a five-year jail term for trafficking and distributing prohibited substances to athletes, aiming to target suppliers, including medical practitioners. This move follows India's consistent topping of WADA's list for three years.

After hosting 36 international sports events since 2025, India plans to host 11 more in the next six months. Ahmedabad, India's bid city for the 2036 Olympics, is due to hold three of them. In Delhi, the BWF World Championships will be held as a test of infrastructure improvement following the India Open fiasco in January.

With 2026 Asian Games qualification process nearing its end, Sports Minister Mansukh Mandaviya made clear that only those teams and athletes who can bring laurels to the country will be green lit. The extensive personal support staff will not be approved at the public's expense.