The Times of India

In Manikas absence, Indias womens team will be led by Sreeja Akula and comprise Yashaswini Ghorpade, Diya Chitale, Sutirtha Mukherjee and 17-year-old Syndrela Das. Manika and Swastika Ghosh have been named among the reserves for the Games, scheduled to be held in Aichi-Nagoya, Japan, from September 19 to October 4.

DR Congo's iconic 'statue fan', Lumumba Vea, missed their World Cup opener against Portugal due to Ebola quarantine. Famous for his motionless tribute to Patrice Lumumba, his absence was noted. Fortunately, he's expected back for their next match, a welcome sight for fans after the team's surprising 1-1 draw.

Indian Grandmaster Arjun Erigaisi stunned World Champion Magnus Carlsen at the FIDE World Rapid and Blitz Team Championships. Erigaisi capitalized on a late blunder by Carlsen to secure a crucial victory for Team MGD1. This win highlights the rising prowess of India's young chess talents, with Arjun joining the ranks of players challenging the world's best.

England Test captain Ben Stokes is set to return to competitive cricket for Durham in their County Championship match against Northamptonshire. He was previously omitted from England's second Test against New Zealand due to a nightclub incident. Both Stokes and Gus Atkinson have now been cleared for domestic play, with a decision on their international availability expected soon.

India achieved a dominant 170-run win against Afghanistan in the second ODI. Shubman Gill and Ishan Kishan scored centuries, forming a significant partnership. This victory gives India an unassailable 2-0 lead in the three-match series. The focus now shifts to the final ODI as India aims for a clean sweep.

Former captain Krishnamachari Srikkanth sees Test potential in Ishan Kishan, currently sidelined by a packed Indian team. He also highlights Yashasvi Jaiswal as an all-format player deserving more white-ball chances. Srikkanth notes the difficulty in selection due to top-order talent and calls for continuity in team choices for domestic performers.

Pakistan's centrally contracted cricketers are set for substantial pay hikes under the new 2026-27 contract system, with Track A red-ball players to see the biggest increase. The PCB's format-based contracts will also offer attractive performance bonuses, including a 500% match fee bonus for winning an ICC tournament.

Shubman Gill's exceptional batting form continued with a magnificent 154, leading India to an ODI series win against Afghanistan. His stellar performance, coupled with a strong showing from young pacers like Gurnoor Brar, earned praise from Sunil Gavaskar, who highlighted the positive impact of personal form on captaincy.

The 2026 FIFA World Cup broadcaster Zee Entertainment Enterprises Ltd. will contribute 15% of its subscription revenue from football to uplift the sport in India. This initiative, starting immediately, aims to identify and train young talent nationwide through collaborations with various organisations.

Former India batter Aakash Chopra feels Mohammed Siraj was prematurely labelled a one-format player. Chopra argues Siraj has consistently proven his mettle across all formats, particularly in white-ball cricket, despite facing periods of being out of favour. He questioned decisions regarding Siraj's white-ball selections, especially his omission from the Champions Trophy squad.

Major League Cricket kicks off its fourth season on June 18, featuring a new venue and a historic debut. The Knight Riders Cricket Field in Los Angeles will host its first top-level match, while ex-India spinner R Ashwin joins the San Francisco Unicorns, marking his first foreign league appearance. Elsewhere, defending champions MI New York remain strong contenders.

Graeme Swann lauded Ishan Kishan's exceptional century, a blistering 125 off 79 balls, which was instrumental in India's commanding 170-run victory over Afghanistan. Kishan's remarkable innings, featuring a rapid transition from circumspect play to aggressive stroke-making, showcased his adaptability and improved batting prowess. This performance, alongside Shubman Gill's 154, propelled India to a massive total and secured the series.

BCCI secretary Devajit Saikia clarified the board's stance on the on-field altercation involving Vaibhav Sooryavanshi and Vishen Halambage. Saikia emphasised that disciplinary actions are solely the purview of match officials, not the BCCI. Sri Lanka Cricket has reportedly sanctioned Halambage for provocative remarks and Dickwella for excessive appealing following the Super Over match.

Shubman Gill's stellar 154 against Afghanistan in Lucknow secured a commanding 170-run victory for India, clinching the ODI series. This remarkable innings marked Gill as the seventh Indian captain to score over 150, joining legends like Tendulkar and Kohli. His performance underscores his growing stature in Indian cricket.

Lionel Messi ignited the FIFA World Cup 2026 with a historic hat-trick against Algeria, becoming the oldest player to achieve the feat and equalling Miroslav Klose's record. A heartwarming viral video captured Messi learning a new goal celebration from a young fan, sparking anticipation for his potential record-breaking strike.

The BCCI is planning to kick off the IPL from March 10-May 15 starting in 2027, aiming to escape extreme weather. This shift seeks to mitigate disruptions from heatwaves and pre-monsoon rains affecting late-season matches. The tournament will maintain its 74-match format, with domestic schedules also being reviewed to align with the earlier start.

Fatima Sana etched her name in Women's T20 World Cup history with a remarkable all-round performance, scoring an unbeaten 55 and taking 3 wickets. Despite her heroic efforts, Pakistan narrowly lost to South Africa by two wickets in a thrilling contest. Sana's historic feat, however, couldn't secure a victory for her team.

Jude Bellingham became the youngest European player to feature in four major tournaments, achieving this milestone at 22 years and 353 days. He marked the occasion with a goal in England's 4-2 World Cup opener against Croatia. Bellingham's early career and commitment to the national team were highlighted, with his 50th cap potentially coming against Ghana.

Lionel Messi and Cristiano Ronaldo are among the first to wear the new FIFA World Cup Legacy badge at the 2026 tournament. This special sleeve patch honors players with exceptional longevity and achievements, recognizing their enduring impact on World Cup history. The badge celebrates their record-equalling sixth appearances and significant contributions to the sport.

Shubman Gill and Gautam Gambhir's masterstroke for 2027 ODI World Cup

Cristiano Ronaldo faced criticism after Portugal's draw against DR Congo, with Thierry Henry highlighting his movement as detrimental. Henry argued Ronaldo's desire to score obstructed teammates like Bruno Fernandes, hindering team opportunities. Despite a stellar international career, Ronaldo's performance lacked impact, with minimal shots and no chances created in the match.

Luis Diaz starred on his World Cup debut, scoring a goal and providing an assist as Colombia defeated Uzbekistan 3-1. Daniel Munoz opened the scoring, and despite an Uzbek equaliser, Diaz quickly restored Colombia's lead. Substitute Jaminton Campaz sealed the victory, placing Colombia atop Group K.

Cristiano Ronaldo achieved a historic sixth World Cup appearance, joining Lionel Messi in an elite club. However, this milestone was overshadowed by Portugal's disappointing 1-1 draw against DR Congo. The veteran forward had a quiet game, struggling to make an impact and extending his major tournament goal drought to ten matches, raising concerns about his current form.

Cristiano Ronaldo faced a challenging start to his World Cup 2026 journey, failing to score for Portugal in a 1-1 draw. Following the match, Democratic Republic of the Congo fans chanted Lionel Messi's name, a stark contrast to Messi's recent hat-trick. Ronaldo, however, maintained his composure, responding with a smile and applause.

South Africa secured a dramatic two-wicket victory over Pakistan in their Women's T20 World Cup opener. Despite a strong fightback from Pakistan's captain Fatima Sana, South Africa's Annerie Dercksen and Nadine de Klerk steered them through a tense chase, ultimately winning by the narrowest of margins.

Cape Verdean goalkeeper Josimar 'Vozinha' Dias will be reunited with his mother at the FIFA World Cup 2026 match against Uruguay in Miami. US authorities expedited visa arrangements after Vozinha expressed his disappointment that his mother couldn't attend his historic debut due to complications. This heartwarming development follows his heroic performance against Spain.

Ghana secured a dramatic 1-0 victory over Panama in their FIFA World Cup 2026 opener, thanks to Caleb Yirenkyi's deep stoppage-time goal. The late strike denied Panama their first-ever World Cup point. Despite a tight encounter with few clear chances, Ghana's late heroics ensured they began their campaign with maximum points, joining England at the top of Group L.

Lionel Messi achieved a remarkable milestone, equalling Miroslav Klose's record of 16 World Cup goals with a stunning hat-trick. This feat marks a significant chapter in his enduring World Cup journey, showcasing his perseverance and continued excellence on the global stage. Messi's performance captivated audiences, solidifying his legendary status.

Cristiano Ronaldo's influence is under scrutiny following Portugal's 1-1 World Cup draw against DR Congo. The veteran forward registered minimal touches and no shots on target, extending his major tournament goalless streak to ten matches. Despite the frustrating performance, Ronaldo remains optimistic, but the team faces pressure to rebound quickly.

Shubman Gill's brilliant 154 powered India to a massive 402 and a series win against Afghanistan. Battling cramps, Gill revealed he aimed for a double century, emphasising his goal to convert starts into match-defining innings. The skipper expressed confidence in his current form, highlighting a dominant performance alongside Ishan Kishan.

Shubman Gill and Ishan Kishan's 224-run stand against Afghanistan in Lucknow was more than just a batting masterclass. In unforgiving conditions, with the temperature constantly hovering above 40 degrees, the duo showcased why the left-right combination could be central to their ODI plans heading into the 2027 World Cup.

The World Cup column highlights the latest ads from Nike and Adidas, featuring football legends and current stars. Lionel Messi's record-breaking hat-trick against Zinedine Zidane's son, Kylian Mbappe's dominant performance, and Erling Haaland's impactful debut are key moments. Upcoming matches include Portugal vs. DR Congo and England vs. Croatia.

Harry Kane etched his name in England's World Cup history, drawing level with Gary Lineker's 36-year-old record of 10 goals. Despite an initial penalty miss, Kane's composure shone through with a successful retake and a powerful header. This remarkable feat cements his status as one of England's greatest forwards as the team aims for glory.

Gurnoor Brar opens up on Mohammed Siraj's influence, death overs and debut series

Gurnoor Brar has made an impressive start to his international career, but the right-arm pacer insists the foundation of his success was laid in domestic cricket and strengthened through the India A setup. The 26-year-old has picked up three wickets in each of the first two ODIs against Afghanistan and is tipped as someone who could be part of India's squad for the 2027 ODI World Cup in South Africa, Zimbabwe and Namibia.

India Women thrashed the Netherlands by 95 runs after posting a record Women's T20 World Cup total of 209/5. Smriti Mandhana (74) and Shafali Verma (55) shared a 115-run opening stand, while Richa Ghosh and Deepti Sharma provided late fireworks. The bowlers then bundled out the Dutch for 114, with debutant Nandani Sharma impressing. Shreyanka Patil's ankle injury was India's only concern.

After Afghanistan chose to bowl first in difficult afternoon conditions, India piled up 402 all out, powered by a 224-run partnership between Gill and Kishan for the third wicket. The stand came off just 141 deliveries and put India in complete control of the contest.

Smriti Mandhana scripted history by becoming the first player across men's and women's T20Is to hit 600 fours. The India vice-captain struck 74 off 47 balls and, alongside Shafali Verma (55), added 115 runs for the opening wicket against the Netherlands. Late cameos from Richa Ghosh and Deepti Sharma helped India post a record Women's T20 World Cup total of 209/5.

The incident took place in the sixth over of the Netherlands innings. Shreyanka had bowled just one delivery when she hurt herself while trying to stop the ball in the field.

Lionel Messi scored his first World Cup hat-trick in Argentina's 3-0 win over Algeria, equalling Miroslav Klose's record of 16 goals. However, his performance was overshadowed by controversy after a studs-up tackle on Aissa Mandi, with pundits Nedum Onuoha and Ale Moreno insisting the Argentine captain was fortunate to avoid a red card. Argentina coach Lionel Scaloni hailed Messi's enduring brilliance.

Debut pacer Prince Yadav experienced a moment of heartbreak as his maiden ODI wicket was disallowed due to a marginal no-ball. Despite the unfortunate turn, Yadav's delivery troubled Afghanistan opener Rahmanullah Gurbaz. This incident occurred after India posted a formidable 402, powered by Shubman Gill's 154 and Ishan Kishan's 125.

Vaibhav Sooryavanshi stole the show with a sensational diving catch to dismiss Khalid Taniwal during India A's Tri-Nation Series clash against Afghanistan A. The 15-year-old's athletic effort helped India A tighten their grip on the match, which they eventually won by 101 runs to seal a place in the final, with Nishant Sindhu starring with four wickets.

Lionel Messi's team has accused former West Bengal Sports Minister Aroop Biswas of causing chaos during the 'GOAT India Tour' in Kolkata. An email to police alleges Biswas repeatedly touched Messi and brought unauthorized individuals onto the field, forcing the footballer's early departure. Event organizer Satadru Dutta, who previously accused Biswas, is challenging the minister's protection from arrest in court.

India A secured their spot in the Tri-Nation A Series final with a dominant 101-run win over Afghanistan A. Half-centuries from Arya, Varma, and Kushagra, coupled with Nishant Sindhu's four-wicket haul, propelled India A to a commanding victory and a place in the championship match.

Shreyas Iyer achieved a significant milestone in his ODI career. He became the joint second-fastest Indian batter to reach 3,000 runs. Iyer reached this landmark in his 72nd innings. This places him alongside Shikhar Dhawan and ahead of Virat Kohli. The achievement occurred during India's second ODI against Afghanistan in Lucknow. Shubman Gill remains the fastest Indian to this mark.

Former India batter Manoj Tiwary urged 15-year-old Vaibhav Sooryavanshi to channel his aggression positively after his altercation with Sri Lanka A players. Tiwary said rival teams would target the youngster because of his rapid rise and advised him to decide the image he wants in cricket. India coach Sairaj Bahutule backed Sooryavanshi, saying the teenager would learn from the episode.