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Sports / The Times of India

'Horror show': Boycott hits out at Stokes and McCullum

England's Ashes campaign faces severe criticism after a 0-2 deficit, with 'Bazball' under fire. Former player Geoffrey Boycott lambasted the team's batting, bowling, and fielding, calling their approach a 'horror show.' He questioned individual performances and the team's insular mindset, suggesting a drastic turnaround is needed to salvage the series.

8 Dec 2025 10:30 am
Team India arrive in Cuttack for T20Is | Fans will miss Virat Kohli, Rohit Sharma

Team India arrive in Cuttack for T20Is | Fans will miss Virat Kohli, Rohit Sharma

8 Dec 2025 10:21 am
IND vs SA: Hardik Pandya practices alone at Barabati Stadium

Hardik Pandya commenced early net practice in Cuttack, mirroring Virat Kohli's proactive approach. Having recovered from a quadricep injury, Pandya showcased his match fitness in recent Syed Mushtaq Ali Trophy games, preparing for the T20I series against South Africa.

8 Dec 2025 9:44 am
Lockie Ferguson interview: Why he will never cut down on pace | ILT20 cricket and more

Lockie Ferguson interview: Why he will never cut down on pace | ILT20 cricket and more

8 Dec 2025 9:41 am
'Nahi jitega to bandook tumhari taraf': Shastri to Gambhir

Head coach Gautam Gambhir faces scrutiny after consecutive home Test series losses. However, former coach Ravi Shastri advocates for shared player responsibility, emphasising that defeats are collective. Shastri highlighted the importance of pride, hurt from losses, and strong man-management skills for team success, urging a broader view of accountability beyond just the coach.

8 Dec 2025 9:31 am
I know my time will come, says Yashasvi Jaiswal

Yashasvi Jaiswal seized his opportunity, scoring a maiden ODI century with an unbeaten 116 to guide India to a series-clinching victory. Coach Gautam Gambhir praised Jaiswal's innings and emphasised the importance of youngsters staying motivated for future chances, even with senior players returning.

8 Dec 2025 9:30 am
ILT20: Powell's 96 powers Dubai Capitals to 83-run win over AD Knight Riders

Rovman Powell's explosive unbeaten 96 powered Dubai Capitals to a commanding 83-run victory over Abu Dhabi Knight Riders. Powell, alongside Jordan Cox's 52, orchestrated a crucial partnership after a shaky start, setting a formidable 187. The Capitals' bowlers then dismantled the Knight Riders for 103, securing their first win of the season.

8 Dec 2025 9:08 am
'I am officially not retired from all formats' - Shakib al Hasan

Former Bangladesh captain Shakib Al Hasan has withdrawn his retirement from Test and T20I formats, aiming to play a full series in all three formats before his international career concludes. He has been out of international cricket for over a year due to security concerns and a ban following birthday wishes to a former Prime Minister.

8 Dec 2025 8:49 am
Time to prep for SA conditions: India's urgent ODI overhaul for 2027 World Cup

India's ODI team is undergoing a rethink ahead of the 2027 World Cup, with coach Gautam Gambhir acknowledging the need to adapt to different conditions. While Rohit Sharma and Virat Kohli remain a strong core, the lower middle-order and pace attack require significant attention and development to ensure a balanced squad for the global tournament.

8 Dec 2025 8:47 am
EPL: Palace soar into top four; Brighton deny West Ham with dramatic late twist

Crystal Palace soared to fourth in the Premier League with a dramatic 2-1 victory over Fulham, thanks to Marc Guehi's late header. Meanwhile, Brighton snatched a 1-1 draw against West Ham in stoppage time, denying the visitors a crucial escape from the relegation zone. Palace's impressive form continues their ascent.

8 Dec 2025 8:17 am
Smriti Mandhana and Palash Muchhal's sangeet video goes viral

Cricketer Smriti Mandhana and singer Palash Muchhal have officially called off their wedding, which was postponed due to Mandhana's father's hospitalisation. Both have issued statements requesting privacy and urging an end to speculation, with Muchhal also announcing legal action against defamatory content.

8 Dec 2025 8:14 am
Wedding cancelled! What Mandhana and Palash said in their statements

Indian cricketer Smriti Mandhana has confirmed the cancellation of her wedding to music composer Palash Muchhal, ending weeks of social media speculation. Both individuals have requested privacy for their families and expressed their desire to move forward. Muchhal also stated his team will take legal action against those spreading defamatory content.

8 Dec 2025 5:00 am
Virat Kohli, Rohit Sharma asked to 'treat differently' after South Africa ODIs

Former batting coach Sanjay Bangar strongly defended Virat Kohli and Rohit Sharma's place in the ODI team, citing their exceptional records. He argued that established stars, having retired from other formats, deserve time to regain match fitness and their presence significantly boosts team morale and confidence, especially after tough losses.

8 Dec 2025 5:00 am
Hockey Jr WC: Defending champions Germany rout India 5-1 in semifinal

Defending champions Germany decisively ended India's Junior World Cup campaign with a commanding 5-1 victory in the semifinals. Despite a spirited effort, India's hopes were dashed by Germany's clinical finishing, with Lukas Kossel netting twice. India will now vie for bronze against Argentina, while Germany advances to face Spain in the final.

7 Dec 2025 10:29 pm
Not Sachin or Kohli! 'We should be proud that he was born in our country'

Former Indian opener Murali Vijay lauded MS Dhoni's unique leadership and instinctive decision-making, citing the 2007 T20 World Cup final over to Joginder Sharma as a prime example. Vijay highlighted Dhoni's powerful hitting and mental strength, emphasising his unparalleled range and out-of-the-box approach that led to India's victory. Dhoni will continue with CSK in the IPL until 2026.

7 Dec 2025 9:52 pm
Norris becomes first British driver to clinch F1 c'ship after Hamilton

Lando Norris clinched his maiden Formula 1 world championship at the Abu Dhabi Grand Prix, narrowly beating Max Verstappen by two points. While Verstappen won the race, Norris's third-place finish secured the title. Oscar Piastri completed a strong McLaren showing by finishing second in the race and third in the championship, marking a significant upset for Norris.

7 Dec 2025 8:14 pm
Guwahati Masters: Saraswat wins Super 100 title; Tanvi finishes second

India's Sanskar Saraswat clinched his maiden Super 100 title at the Guwahati Masters, defeating compatriot Mithun Manjunath in a thrilling men's singles final. In the women's singles, Tanvi Sharma secured the runner-up position after a close match against Chinese Taipei's Tung Ciou-Tong. The Indian men's doubles pair also finished as runners-up.

7 Dec 2025 7:15 pm
Fakhar Zaman interview: Power hitting, playing role of mentor in ILT20, hitting sixes & more

Fakhar Zaman interview: Power hitting, playing role of mentor in ILT20, hitting sixes & more

7 Dec 2025 6:55 pm
England coach blames 'too much training' for Ashes defeat

England head coach Brendon McCullum believes his team rained too much ahead of their heavy Ashes Test defeat in Brisbane. He suggested excessive preparation may have contributed to the team's struggles to adapt to conditions. McCullum emphasized the need for players to be physically and mentally fresh for crucial decisions during matches.

7 Dec 2025 6:35 pm
WTC 2025-27: Australia top table after 2-0 Ashes lead; where are India?

Australia have taken a commanding 2-0 lead in the Ashes series as they defeated England by eight wickets in the Brisbane day-night Test on Sunday. Joe Root scored his first Test century in Australia, but Australia established a significant first-innings lead. England fought back but ultimately fell short. With this win, Australia remain at the top of the World Test Championship standings.

7 Dec 2025 6:24 pm
Right after maiden ODI ton, Jaiswal confirms availability for SMAT KOs

Yashasvi Jaiswal will join the Mumbai team for the Syed Mushtaq Ali T20 Trophy knockouts. This comes after his impressive maiden ODI century against South Africa. Jaiswal replaces Ayush Mhatre who will lead the India Under-19 team. The knockout stage begins on December 9 in Pune. Mumbai qualified for the knockouts after a strong league stage performance.

7 Dec 2025 5:38 pm
'Australia not for weak men': 'Disappointed' Stokes admits Eng failed in pressure

England captain Ben Stokes admitted his team struggled to handle pressure in key moments during their second Test defeat to Australia, leading to a 2-0 series deficit. Despite dropped catches and a lack of required mindset, Stokes believes a 3-2 Ashes victory is still possible if the team addresses issues quickly.

7 Dec 2025 5:30 pm
Drama at The Gabba! Smith opens up on heated exchange with Archer

Australia captain Steve Smith downplayed his on-field verbal spat with England's Jofra Archer during their recent Ashes Test victory. Smith described the exchange as good banter between fierce competitors, emphasizing that any tension remained on the field. The incident occurred late in Australia's chase, but ultimately had no impact on the match's outcome.

7 Dec 2025 5:08 pm
'I'd be asking ECB for refund': Botham blasts England after Ashes debacle

Australia secured an emphatic eight-wicket victory in the second Test, taking a commanding 2-0 lead in the Ashes series. England's performance drew heavy criticism from legend Ian Botham, who questioned the team's preparation and fitness, suggesting supporters deserve refunds. The defeat exposed significant weaknesses in England's batting, bowling, and fielding.

7 Dec 2025 4:32 pm
Mo problems: Salah says club has 'thrown me under the bus'; hints at Liverpool exit

Mohamed Salah expressed deep disappointment and a breakdown in his relationship with Liverpool coach Arne Slot after being benched for three consecutive matches. Salah feels the club has blamed him for recent poor form, casting doubt on his future at Anfield as he prepares for the Africa Cup of Nations.

7 Dec 2025 4:28 pm
'Bowl fast when nothings happening': Smith-Archer showdown lights up Ashes

Australia secured an eight-wicket victory in the second Ashes Test, taking a 2-0 series lead. During Australia's chase, Steve Smith and Jofra Archer engaged in a verbal exchange after Archer bowled a series of aggressive deliveries. Smith responded with boundaries, including a six, to finish the match.

7 Dec 2025 3:42 pm
Ashes: Australia humble England again, take 2-0 lead in five-match series

Australia secured a commanding eight-wicket victory over England in the second Ashes Test at Brisbane, taking a 2-0 series lead. The hosts efficiently chased down the target of 65 runs in just 10 overs. England's performance was significantly weaker across all aspects of the game, with batting and bowling proving inadequate on the Gabba surface.

7 Dec 2025 3:28 pm
Mandhana and Palash wedding cancelled: Complete timeline

Indian cricketer Smriti Mandhana has officially confirmed her wedding to music composer Palash Muchhal is off, ending weeks of speculation. She requested privacy for both families, stating her focus is now on representing India. Calling herself a very private person, she urged restraint and understanding from the public.

7 Dec 2025 3:17 pm
Watch: Kohli offers prayers at Simhachalam Temple after IND vs SA ODIs

Following a stellar India vs South Africa ODI series, where he smashed two centuries and a fifty, Virat Kohli visited the Simhachalam Temple. His exceptional form, culminating in Player of the Series, saw him finish 2025 as India's top ODI scorer. Head coach Gautam Gambhir also sought blessings at the temple before the decisive Vizag match.

7 Dec 2025 3:14 pm
Shimron Hetmyer interview: Opens up on hitting sixes, playing T20 leagues and ILT20 experience

Shimron Hetmyer interview: Opens up on hitting sixes, playing T20 leagues and ILT20 experience

7 Dec 2025 1:58 pm
'Wedding is called off': Mandhana breaks silence on her marriage with Palash

Indian womens team vice-captain Smriti Mandhana on Sunday addressed weeks of speculation surrounding her personal life, confirming that her wedding with music composer Palash Muchhal has been called off. The star batter appealed to fans and the media to respect the privacy of both families.

7 Dec 2025 1:34 pm
'Virat Kohli, Rohit Sharma have retired ... ': Ex-India batting coach opens up

Former India batting coach Sanjay Bangar asserts that Virat Kohli and Rohit Sharma deserve special treatment and their places in the ODI setup should never have been questioned. He believes their years of contribution and recent strong performances warrant a different evaluation standard, highlighting their impact on team morale and performance.

7 Dec 2025 12:52 pm
'Batting order is very overrated': Gautam Gambhir

Head coach Gautam Gambhir defended his flexible batting order approach in white-ball cricket, calling it overrated except for openers. He highlighted Washington Sundar's adaptability and team-first attitude. Gambhir also acknowledged dew's significant impact on the ODI series but expects less influence in the upcoming T20Is.

7 Dec 2025 11:58 am
'I've said it many times ... ': Gambhir's big comment on Rohit Sharma, Virat Kohli

Providing weight to the senior contingent, Virat Kohli emerged Player of the Series in the ODIs against South Africa, scoring two centuries and a fifty a swift return to the highs he consistently reached from 2015 onwards. Rohit Sharma added a couple of fifties, underlining his enduring touch and class.

7 Dec 2025 10:48 am
Shukri accepts mistake after controversial 'grovel' comment

South Africa's coach Shukri Conrad regrets using the word grovel, acknowledging it overshadowed their historic Test win over India. He clarified no malice was intended, aiming only to describe India's defensive approach. Conrad also expressed disappointment in missing a chance to win both Test and ODI series, highlighting learnings from Indian stars like Kohli and Sharma for his young squad.

7 Dec 2025 9:57 am
Lionel Messi dazzles as Miami beat Vancouver to win MLS title

The historic Major League Soccer triumph marked a moment of triumph for co-owner David Beckham, the former England and Manchester United star who had long envisioned bringing success to Miami.

7 Dec 2025 9:15 am
'12 sixes, 302 runs and POTS award': Virat Kohli says 'I feel really free in my mind'

Virat Kohli is back in top form, scoring 376 runs in his last four ODIs with two centuries and feeling liberated. After a Player of the Series award, he expressed his best rhythm in years, contributing to India's series win. Kohli, who holds the world record with 53 ODI centuries, rated his 135 in Ranchi as his best knock of the series.

7 Dec 2025 8:45 am
'Mota ho jaunga wapis': Rohit Sharma refuses to eat cake after India win - WATCH

Yashasvi Jaiswal's maiden ODI century (116*) powered India to a commanding nine-wicket victory over South Africa, clinching the series 2-1. Rohit Sharma also shone with 75 runs, crossing 20,000 international runs. The duo's 155-run opening stand set the stage for a dominant chase, with Virat Kohli adding an unbeaten 65.

7 Dec 2025 8:17 am
Gautam Gambhir Press Conference: Team India head coach heaves fire after 2-1 ODI series win over SA

Gautam Gambhir Press Conference: Team India head coach heaves fire after 2-1 ODI series win over SA

6 Dec 2025 10:51 pm
EPL: Arsenal's title charge suffers; Villa end their 18-match unbeaten run

Arsenal's Premier League title aspirations took a hit as Aston Villa secured a dramatic 2-1 victory with Emiliano Buendia's stoppage-time winner. The result tightened the title race, with Villa moving to second and Manchester City gaining an opportunity. Despite a strong run, Arsenal's away form faltered, allowing rivals to close the gap.

6 Dec 2025 10:10 pm
'Easy to write people off': R Ashwin hails Prasidh Krishnas comeback carnage

Ravichandran Ashwin and Irfan Pathan lauded Prasidh Krishna's impactful four-wicket haul in the third ODI against South Africa. Despite an earlier expensive spell, Krishna's crucial breakthroughs, including the wickets of Breetzke, Markram, de Kock, and Baartman, helped India restrict the opposition, showcasing his potential.

6 Dec 2025 6:55 pm
Kuldeep takes 11th 4-wicket haul; surpasses this Indian legendary spinner

Kuldeep Yadav and Prasidh Krishna starred with four wickets each, dismantling South Africa for 270 in the final ODI. Despite Quinton de Kock's brilliant 106, the Proteas faltered. Kuldeep's exceptional spell further cemented his dominance against South Africa, marking his fifth four-wicket haul against them. At one stage, South Africa were 199/4

6 Dec 2025 6:43 pm
'Chal waps ja!': Kuldeep gets schooled by Rohit and Kohli during DRS drama - Watch

During India's series-clinching ODI against South Africa, Rohit Sharma, despite not captaining, humorously intervened to prevent Kuldeep Yadav from taking unnecessary DRS reviews. Sharma, supported by Virat Kohli, repeatedly signaled against reviews, showcasing a blend of humor and strategic insight that ultimately proved correct, as Kuldeep later admitted his reliance on such guidance.

6 Dec 2025 6:29 pm
Ashes: Australia on the brink of 2-0; Starcs heroics leave England in huge trouble

Australia is on the cusp of a commanding Ashes victory after a dominant third day at the Gabba. Mitchell Starc starred with both bat and ball, propelling the hosts to a significant lead. England, struggling under lights, ended the day at 134-6, facing a familiar collapse and a daunting task to stay in the series.

6 Dec 2025 5:42 pm
Fans travel thousands of kilometres to watch Virat Kohli, Rohit Sharma play

Fans travel thousands of kilometres to watch Virat Kohli, Rohit Sharma play

6 Dec 2025 5:23 pm
West Indies rewrite history books against New Zealand: A look at all the records shattered

West Indies staged a remarkable fightback in Christchurch, securing a heroic draw against New Zealand with a record-breaking fourth-innings performance. Batting for over 163 overs, Justin Greaves (202*) and Kemar Roach (58*) led the charge, achieving the highest fourth-innings total in a five-day Test and etching their names in history with several rare milestones.

6 Dec 2025 5:20 pm
Sanju Samson sends a strong message to Gambhir ahead of South Africa T20Is

Sanju Samson's unbeaten 73 anchored Kerala's low score against Andhra Pradesh in the Syed Mushtaq Ali Trophy. This captain's knock, his second fifty this season, highlights his consistent domestic form amidst ongoing questions about his role in India's T20 setup. With competition for wicketkeeping spots, Samson's future in the playing XI remains uncertain.

6 Dec 2025 4:53 pm
De Kock hits new landmarks: Overtakes Kohli, equals Sachin in top ODI records

This was de Kocks seventh ODI hundred in just 23 innings against India. No player has scored more hundreds against India. He is now level with Sanath Jayasuriya, who also has seven but reached the mark in 85 innings. De Kock also moved level with AB de Villiers for the most ODI hundreds by a visiting batter in India.

6 Dec 2025 4:28 pm