The Times of India

Lionel Messi has etched his name in history, becoming the second male footballer to achieve 900 official career goals during Inter Miami's CONCACAF Champions Cup match. Though his team was eliminated, Messi's milestone places him alongside Cristiano Ronaldo in an elite scoring club. He reached this incredible feat in fewer games than Ronaldo, further solidifying his legendary status.

The Times of India Sports Awards returns for its eighth edition, celebrating India's sporting achievements in 2025. Lucknow will host the ceremony on March 21, 2026. This year highlights historic wins for Indian cricket, with Deepti Sharma and Kuldeep Yadav earning nominations for their stellar performances.

Yuzvendra Chahal is embracing a fresh start with Punjab Kings for IPL 2026, prioritizing fitness after a challenging period. The veteran leg-spinner has quit alcohol, aiming to deliver his best. Despite past personal and professional hurdles, including injuries, Chahal remains IPL's leading wicket-taker and is determined to lead Punjab to their maiden title.

The Times of India Sports Awards 2025 will honour India's top athletes in Lucknow on March 21, 2026. This edition's nominations highlight exceptional performances from Uttar Pradesh athletes, with four dominating the Track and Field Athlete of the Year categories. Gulveer Singh, Sachin Yadav, Parul Chaudhary, and Rupal Chaudhary have all achieved significant milestones in 2025.

India's men's hockey team faces a challenging World Cup opener against Wales on August 15, followed by clashes with England and rivals Pakistan. The women's squad begins their campaign against China on August 16, with tough encounters against South Africa and England also scheduled. Both teams are preparing with extensive international tours and practice matches.

Rajasthan Royals' performance coach Siddhartha Lahiri lauded 14-year-old Vaibhav Sooryavanshi's exceptional talent, calling him a freak with immense potential who lives and breathes cricket. Lahiri also acknowledged the significant impact of Sanju Samson's departure, noting his absence will be felt despite the mutual decision to part ways. The Royals' scouting system was credited for discovering such promising young players.

Rishabh Pant is gearing up for a crucial IPL season. He is working hard to regain his spot in India's white-ball squad. Recent practice sessions and time with Yuvraj Singh show his dedication. A strong IPL performance could secure his place for the 2027 ODI World Cup. Pant is focused on his game and mental strength.

Royal Challengers Bengaluru returned to M. Chinnaswamy Stadium for IPL 2026 training, with Virat Kohli in focus as he impressed in nets. Some key players were absent, while rain cut practice short. The team faces Sunrisers Hyderabad on March 28, and their fan-favourite Unbox event has been cancelled due to scheduling constraints.

Former world champion Ding Liren has dropped out of the FIDE ratings list due to inactivity but says he is content with the break. After losing his title to D Gukesh, Ding is enjoying a quieter phase, playing casual online games. Reflecting on his journey, he admitted regrets about academics but remains relaxed, focusing on a less intense relationship with chess.

IPL 2026 begins March 28 with Royal Challengers Bengaluru facing Sunrisers Hyderabad. All teams have finalised coaching staffs featuring experienced names. Andy Flower leads RCB, Stephen Fleming heads CSK, while Mahela Jayawardene guides MI. Other teams also boast strong coaching setups, setting the stage for a competitive season.

RCB will begin their IPL 2026 campaign on March 28 against Sunrisers Hyderabad at the M Chinnaswamy Stadium in Bengaluru. The team will enter the season after winning their first title last year.

Sunrisers Hyderabad have appointed Ishan Kishan as captain for the upcoming IPL season, with Abhishek Sharma as his deputy. This leadership change is in effect until regular captain Pat Cummins recovers from injury. Kishan, a dynamic wicketkeeper-batter, brings his explosive form and proven IPL record to the role, aiming to lead the franchise effectively during Cummins' absence.

Indias badminton teams face tough draws in the Thomas and Uber Cups in Horsens, with both squads grouped alongside defending champions China. While the men aim to build on their 2022 title win, the women also face strong rivals. In-form Lakshya Sen offers hope as 16 teams compete, with top two from each group reaching the quarterfinals.

Sporting Club Delhi, formerly Hyderabad FC, will end the capital's seven-year absence from first-division football as they host Jamshedpur FC at the Jawaharlal Nehru Stadium on March 19. Despite a rocky start to the season with one draw and three losses, the club is banking on home support and a passionate fanbase to spark a turnaround.

Indian chess star Koneru Humpy is uncertain about playing the Womens Candidates in Cyprus due to Middle East tensions. She recently voiced concerns publicly. However, a final decision is yet to be taken. Her withdrawal could lead to fines and impact Indian chess. If she opts out, Ukraine's Anna Muzychuk may replace her in the tournament.

The incident took place outside Western Australias dressing room after the third day of the match on Monday. A report in The Age detailed the interaction with 'visibly annoyed' Green, stating that the interview began with a question about Greens century for Western Australia against New South Wales.

14-year-old Vaibhav Sooryavanshi went viral after naming Dhurandhar his favourite film at the BCCI Naman Awards 2026, sparking debate as its A-rated. While excelling in cricket with record performances, he aims to win IPL 2026 with Rajasthan Royals. Balancing fame and studies, he also missed a Class 10 board exam due to commitments.

Following India's T20 World Cup 2026 victory, Shivam Dube bypassed his flight to rush home to his family. He opted for an early morning train to Mumbai, traveling discreetly in a 3rd AC compartment. Dube's crucial contributions with bat and ball cemented his status as an impactful all-rounder in the triumphant campaign.

Cricket stars gather for Kuldeep Yadavs grand wedding reception | Star-studded night

Shubman Gill, recipient of the Polly Umrigar Award, emphasised the collective effort behind India's dominant status and their hard-earned reputation as favourites. He highlighted the team's fearless approach, shaped by coach Gautam Gambhir and support staff, and reflected on a successful past year, looking forward to crucial upcoming Test series.

A touching moment at Kuldeep Yadav's wedding reception saw the Indian spinner seeking blessings from Ravindra Jadeja and his wife Rivaba by touching their feet. This humble gesture, deeply rooted in Indian tradition, quickly went viral, earning widespread praise from fans.

Virat Kohli has joined Royal Challengers Bengaluru ahead of the IPL season, aiming to defend their title. Last season, Kohli was instrumental in RCB's historic win, scoring 657 runs. With only ODIs and the IPL remaining in his career, his appearances hold significant weight, and he continues to perform at an elite level.

Former cricketers Balaji and du Plessis have outlined a roadmap for KKR's IPL 2026 campaign, emphasizing Rahane's top-order role and the need for new contributors like Green and Allen. While backing the explosive Kiwi openers, concerns were raised about bowling depth and the crucial role of spinners Varun and Narine.

Rajasthan Royals face challenges ahead of IPL 2026. Former India batter Aakash Chopra points to a young batting lineup lacking international experience. Key players like Yashasvi Jaiswal and Dhruv Jurel are still developing. Spin bowling also presents concerns with recent form issues for Ravi Bishnoi and Ravindra Jadeja. The team's strategy may impact Shimron Hetmyer's effectiveness.

Indian Grandmaster Koneru Humpy expressed safety concerns regarding the upcoming Candidates Tournament in Cyprus due to the West Asia conflict, leaving her participation undecided. While Humpy cited a drone attack as a reason for her hesitation, FIDE downplayed the risks, assuring that preparations are ongoing and the region remains stable.

Afghanistan spinner Allah Ghazanfar made an emotional plea to the world after a devastating airstrike hit a Kabul rehabilitation centre. He highlighted the human cost of escalating Pakistan-Afghanistan tensions, urging global intervention to de-escalate the conflict. Ghazanfar stressed India's close ties and the need for dialogue to prevent such tragedies.

Olympic medallist PV Sindhu shared her journey of resilience with students, emphasising that success is built on overcoming numerous losses. She highlighted that consistent hard work and unwavering belief are crucial, whether in sports or academics. Sindhu also stressed the vital role of strong support systems from family and coaches in achieving long-term goals.

Abrar Ahmed's selection for The Hundred by Sunrisers Leeds has ignited a storm, drawing criticism from former IPL chairman Lalit Modi and sparking political debate. Despite backlash and Sunil Gavaskar's remarks, the franchise and sources close to the player emphasise cricketing merit and focus on his career, highlighting the ongoing geopolitical tensions impacting sports.

Sanju Samson embarks on a new IPL chapter with Chennai Super Kings after a stellar T20 World Cup. Anil Kumble highlights Samson's form, leadership potential, and regional connection as significant assets for CSK. His arrival strengthens the squad and offers stability, potentially even taking over keeping duties from MS Dhoni.

Cricket icon Ravichandran Ashwin has voiced strong concerns about 'fan armies' on social media, labelling their influence a 'disease.' He believes these organized narratives, often focusing on individuals over team performance, are shifting focus away from the game itself. Ashwin shared his personal experience with criticism after analyzing Shubman Gill's dismissals, highlighting the shift towards a superstar-driven culture.

Senegal has been stripped of their Africa Cup of Nations title, with CAF declaring Morocco champions after a chaotic final. The decision stems from Senegal players walking off the pitch in protest, leading to a 3-0 forfeit ruling. Senegal has vowed to appeal the unprecedented verdict to the Court of Arbitration for Sport.

Paris Saint-Germain, Real Madrid, and Arsenal have advanced to the Champions League quarter-finals. PSG dominated Chelsea, while Real Madrid overcame Manchester City. Arsenal kept their quadruple hopes alive by defeating Bayer Leverkusen. Meanwhile, Sporting CP staged a remarkable comeback against Bodo/Glimt, securing their spot in the last eight.

Bangladesh's government is launching a new probe into the country's withdrawal from the ICC Twenty20 World Cup, examining potential failures in sports diplomacy. This comes after the Bangladesh Cricket Board requested the shutdown of an earlier investigation. The new committee will focus on identifying root causes and strengthening sports diplomacy, also looking into alleged irregularities in recent BCB elections.

IPL franchises Kolkata Knight Riders, Sunrisers Hyderabad, and Royal Challengers Bengaluru face significant pace bowling concerns due to injuries. KKR's Harshit Rana and Matheesha Pathirana are sidelined, while SRH captain Pat Cummins' fitness is uncertain. RCB's Josh Hazlewood is also racing against time to recover, potentially impacting their bowling attack.

The BCCI may revise player contract valuations after removing the A+ category, potentially impacting consistent performers like Jasprit Bumrah. Bumrah, previously A+, was moved to Grade A, raising concerns about a pay cut. Other players like Axar Patel also face contract downgrades despite strong performances, prompting a review of the system.

Sam Billings revealed that former CSK captain MS Dhoni maintained a relaxed team atmosphere, even employing a Shisha man in his hotel room. While Billings praised Dhonis calm and inclusive nature, the revelation sparked debate. Former cricketer Manoj Tiwary earlier hinted such bonding sessions may have influenced team selection dynamics.

India's men's and women's hockey teams have learned their group-stage opponents for the FIH Hockey World Cup, with both sides drawn in Pool D. The men will face Pakistan, England, and Wales, while the women will compete against China, England, and South Africa. Both teams will play their matches in the Netherlands.

England, led by Ben Stokes, lost the 2025/26 Ashes series 4-1 to Australia cricket team. The tour is still under review by the England and Wales Cricket Board.

Mumbai Indians head coach Mahela Jayawardene praised Mumbai Indians strong core, with Suryakumar Yadav, Jasprit Bumrah, Hardik Pandya and Tilak Varma shining in Indias T20 World Cup win. MI have given them an extended break. He backed Suryakumar, praised Bumrah, hinted at a bigger role for Rohit Sharma, and welcomed healthy selection competition.

Irans 2026 World Cup participation is uncertain amid rising tensions. The country is negotiating with FIFA to shift matches from the US to Mexico, citing safety concerns. Officials said, We will certainly not travel to America. FIFA hasnt agreed yet. After Donald Trump warned about safety, Iran insisted o one can exclude them from the tournament.

India women's team skipper Harmanpreet Kaur rose to seventh in ICC ODI rankings, while Smriti Mandhana stayed No.1. All-rounder Sophie Devine slipped to ninth. New Zealand stars impressed Maddy Green and Amelia Kerr made big gains. In T20Is, Kerr, Georgia Plimmer and Jess Kerr also climbed rankings with strong performances.

The AFC said the action was taken after Malaysia used players who were not eligible during the final round of qualifiers.

Steve Smith and David Warner face uncertainty over joining the Pakistan Super League due to rising security concerns. Tensions, travel disruptions, and a Do Not Travel alert for Peshawar have raised alarms. While preparations continue, players are weighing safety risks, with contingency plans like emergency evacuation under consideration before final decisions are made.

Josh Hazlewood will miss the start of IPL 2026 due to injury, delaying his return by nearly five months. Pat Cummins is also recovering and may join later. Meanwhile, players like Steve Smith face safety concerns over joining the Pakistan Super League amid regional tensions, with evacuation plans being considered.

Dhoni, 44, will play for CSK when the season begins on March 28. De Villiers said Dhonis recent trend of batting at No. 8 or 9 limits his impact.

India's Sumit Nagal is fighting back after a turbulent career plagued by injuries, including hip surgery and a hip flexor tear, that saw him drop from World No. 68 to No. 278. Now refocused on fitness, diet, and the controllables of his game, Nagal heads into his favourite time of the season - on clay - with hard-won maturity and renewed determination.

KL Rahul is set to open for the Delhi Capitals in IPL 2026. The move follows a mid-season shift that boosted his form. The 33-year-old will also keep wickets for the Delhi Capitals in this season. With a strong squad featuring experienced Indian players and impactful overseas signings, Capitals aim to bounce back and push for their maiden IPL title.

Rajasthan Royals captain Riyan Parag watches West Ham vs Man City in London

The Marylebone Cricket Club (MCC) has confirmed a controversial run-out in the Bangladesh vs. Pakistan ODI was correctly given out under the Laws of Cricket. The non-striker was out of his ground when the wicket was broken, and the ball remained in play, making the dismissal lawful.