The Times of India

Belgian powerlifting champion Sonita Muluh says she feels unsafe competing after a spotter allegedly admitted on social media to deliberately interfering with her record squat attempt and described himself as acist. The incident has sparked a criminal investigation in Lithuania, while the official received a lifetime ban and the International Powerlifting Federation pledged stronger athlete safeguards.

Auqib Nabi earned a place in India's Test squad for the Sri Lanka series. He replaces the injured fast bowler Jasprit Bumrah in the team. Nabi's selection follows his strong performances in domestic cricket competitions. He took 104 wickets across two exceptional Ranji Trophy seasons. Nabi becomes the first cricketer from Jammu and Kashmir to reach this milestone.

American shooter Jeff Browning credited nearly two years of training at New Delhi's Topgun Shooting Academy for helping him win the 10m air rifle title at the US National Championship. Browning secured the prestigious Leatherneck Trophy weeks after returning home, praising the academy's coaching and support for helping him maintain world-class standards and achieve national success.

Mahendra Singh Dhoni fostered a comfortable team atmosphere with his open hotel room policy. Younger players often gathered there for relaxation and games away from cricket pressure. Ajinkya Rahane shared insights into this inclusive team culture during a recent interview. Rahane recently announced his retirement from all forms of cricket after a distinguished career. Dhoni's own playing future remains uncertain following an injury and missed IPL season.

Ollie Pope, Dan Lawrence and Sam Cook have all returned to the Test squad, while Jordan Cox is also back and is expected to bat at No. 3, according to The Guardian. Cox gets the opportunity after Jacob Bethell was ruled out of the series with an injury.

Aakash Chopra expresses concerns about Bhuvneshwar Kumar's chances for the 2027 World Cup, pointing to his limited workload. He highlights the importance of continuous preparation in 50-over formats beyond the IPL. Meanwhile, Mohammad Shami appears to be in a stronger position for selection.

The upcoming World Championships will showcase the newly revamped venue promised by the Badminton Association of India. With all prior issues from the India Open being resolved, the Indira Gandhi Indoor Stadium has received comprehensive upgrades. Malaysian lighting specialists have been engaged to ensure stellar conditions. Anticipation builds for what is expected to be the most remarkable BWF World Championships India has ever hosted.

FIFA has recognised and apologised for the mismanagement of its World Cup commercialisation strategy. Senior officials expressed unwavering support for president Gianni Infantino despite the plan's retraction. As criticism escalates from various football entities, the European Leagues association deems the plan perilous, calling for reforms in governance.

Australian pacer Mitchell Starc is just one wicket away from equaling the legendary Kapil Dev's career tally. As he sets his sights on surpassing Dale Steyn's remarkable wicket record, Starc emphasises the importance of continuous improvement over personal achievements. This mindset has played a crucial role in his enduring success on the field.

Ireland's hopes for direct qualification to the 2027 ODI World Cup have been dashed. An incessant downpour led to the cancellation of their opening match against Afghanistan in Bready, sealing their fate. Consequently, Ireland will now have to navigate the challenging ICC Men's Cricket World Cup Qualifier tournament for a chance to secure a spot in the global event.