The Times of India

The cricket schedule for the 2026 Asian Games has been announced, with defending champions India directly qualifying for the quarter-finals in both the men's and women's T20 events. India and Pakistan can only meet in the men's semi-finals or final. The women's team will begin its title defence against hosts Japan. The tournaments will be held in Aichi-Nagoya, Japan, in September.

The 135th Durand Cup begins with a derby match between Mohun Bagan and East Bengal. Organizers are considering introducing a women's tournament in the near future. Preparations for the upcoming season included a special women's exhibition match in Imphal. Twenty-four men's teams will compete across five venues, including Ranchi. Defending champions NorthEast United begin their title defense against Bodoland FC.

Argentina defender Nicolas Otamendi has retired from international football after a 17-year career. The 38-year-old made 139 appearances, winning the 2022 FIFA World Cup and two Copa America titles. His final match was Argentina's 1-0 World Cup final defeat to Spain. Otamendi thanked Argentina in an emotional farewell, saying he leaves with my head held high.

Jos Buttler has climbed to second on the all-time T20 run charts. He surpassed Chris Gayle during a recent match at Lord's. Buttler now trails Kieron Pollard by a narrow margin for the top spot. This milestone follows a period of strong batting form for England's star. He has rediscovered his touch in recent tournaments and matches.

Indian athletes begin their campaigns in five sports on the second day. Para powerlifters will compete for medals in multiple weight categories. Gymnasts and boxers will also commence their events during the morning sessions. Swimmers and lawn bowls players are scheduled for heats and section matches. Several medal events are planned for Indian participants throughout the day.

FIDE President Arkady Dvorkovich has voluntarily stepped aside after being sanctioned by the European Union over Russia's invasion of Ukraine. Calling the sanctions unlawful and unfair, he said he would challenge them legally. Deputy President Viswanathan Anand will serve as interim president. Meanwhile, India named its squads for the FIDE Chess Olympiad, with D Gukesh and Koneru Humpy leading the teams.

Two years after injuries threatened to derail his career, Mayank Yadav announced his return with a fiery 2 for 18 against Zimbabwe. While his father prayed for his fitness during the Govardhan Parikrama in Mathura, the Delhi pacer touched 149 kph and reminded everyone why the Indian cricket board never stopped believing in him.

Zimbabwe captain Sikandar Raza criticised the pitch after his side's seven-wicket loss to India in the first T20I, saying early moisture made batting difficult and the surface became easier later. He hoped for fairer conditions in the next match. Raza also praised Wessly Madhevere and Tadiwanashe Marumani for helping Zimbabwe recover from 32/4 to post a competitive total.

Hanuma Vihari questioned India's decision to leave Rajat Patidar out of the Zimbabwe T20I squad despite his strong IPL 2026 season and leadership with RCB. He also criticised the omissions of Kuldeep Yadav and Sanju Samson, saying the squad lacked right-handed batters. Meanwhile, India beat Zimbabwe by seven wickets in the first T20I to take a 1-0 series lead.

Joe Root's remarkable consistency guides England to ODI series victory. He scored 249 runs across three innings, proving his enduring value. Root's game has evolved, making him a headache for opposing teams. His enduring passion fuels his desire to be England's greatest batter. Root's presence provides comfort and freedom for younger English players.

A petition demanding a replay of the 2026 FIFA World Cup final between Spain and Argentina has surpassed 88,000 signatures, with some Argentina supporters alleging controversial refereeing decisions influenced the result. FIFA has received no evidence requiring action, while Spain's extra-time victory remains unchanged after a dominant performance and Ferran Torres' decisive winner.

FIFA has unveiled the official 2026 World Cup Dream XI following a global fan vote, recognising the tournament's standout performers. World champions Spain lead the selection with three players, while France and Argentina also feature prominently. Jude Bellingham represents England after a record-breaking campaign, while Cape Verde goalkeeper Vozinha earns a surprise spot after becoming one of the tournament's biggest breakout stars.

India pacer Mayank Yadav addresses media following the first T20I against Zimbabwe

Shubman Gill urged compassion and respect for students protesting exam paper leaks. He believes India's youth deserve opportunities to learn and shape the nation's future. Several prominent Indian athletes have also voiced their support for the protesting students. They emphasise the importance of honesty and merit in the education system. The athletes hope for a fair resolution that protects students' hard work and aspirations.

Tapan Mohanty and Tapeshwarnath Das both took up gymnastics at a young age after joining the State Sports Hostel in the coastal town. Pursuing a sport that still lacks widespread popularity in India was never easy, but they kept their heads down, trusted the process and are now among the four Indian men's gymnasts set to compete at the Commonwealth Games.

India's challenge at the China Open 2026 concluded with multiple player exits. Lakshya Sen lost in straight games after squandering a first-game lead. Ayush Shetty suffered a heartbreaking defeat in a deciding game after holding a strong advantage. PV Sindhu also exited in the round of sixteen after a tough contest. The focus now shifts to the Taipei Open and the upcoming home World Championships.

The federation hopes to appoint a new coach within the week as it looks to rebuild after another disappointing qualifying campaign.

World Cup winners Fabin Ruiz and Gavi received a unique hometown honour after Spain's 2026 FIFA World Cup triumph, returning to Los Palacios y Villafranca to be gifted their body weight in locally grown tomatoes. The long-standing tradition celebrated their achievement alongside plans for a permanent monument, while Spain's squad also secured substantial World Cup prize bonuses.

Fast bowler Ashok Sharma made his international debut for India against Zimbabwe. He dedicated this significant career milestone to his elder brother's sacrifice. Sharma's journey highlights perseverance and family support in pursuing cricket dreams. His rapid rise followed strong domestic performances and IPL success. The young pacer received his maiden India cap from bowling coach Sunil Joshi.

Lisha has sent the email to officials of the Indian Olympic Association (IOA), Cycling Federation of India (CFI), Paralympic Committee of India (PCI) and the Sports Ministry.

Sachin Tendulkar urged society to uphold hard work and meritocracy amid NEET exam protests. He stressed that adults must shape a culture valuing effort over shortcuts. Students' disappointment over unrewarded hard work is understandable and should be addressed. Other cricketers like Shikhar Dhawan and Mohammad Kaif also voiced concerns. They called for fair resolutions and an end to student mistreatment during protests.

Putul Sonowal achieved a sensational upset against the reigning world champion in lawn bowls. Rupa Rani Tirkey and Pinki Singh also survived a thriller in the Women's Pairs event. Sonowal showed remarkable composure to defeat a decorated Canadian opponent in his debut. The Indian women's pair secured victory after a tense tie-break against Malta. These wins have raised hopes for India's lawn bowls campaign at the games.

Find the complete 2026 NFL schedule for all 32 teams, including Eagles, Chiefs, Cowboys and every franchise. See game dates, kickoff times, bye weeks, international matchups, prime-time games, TV channels and streaming options. Track Week 18 updates and late-season schedule changes in one easy-to-use guide for the entire regular season, from opening night through final playoff push all season long.

Teenage prodigy Vaibhav Sooryavanshi smashed a record fifty off nineteen balls. He became the youngest player to achieve this international milestone. India secured a seven-wicket victory in the opening T20I match. Captain Shreyas Iyer celebrated his first win as T20I skipper. The bowlers restricted Zimbabwe to 125 for seven runs.

Back in India's colours after nearly two years, Mayank returned figures of 2/18 in four overs as India restricted Zimbabwe to 125/7 in the opening T20I of the three-match series at the Harare Sports Club on Thursday.

India secured a seven-wicket victory against Zimbabwe in the first T20I match. Teenage sensation Vaibhav Sooryavanshi became the youngest player to score a T20I half-century. Mayank Yadav impressed on his comeback with early wickets for India. Zimbabwe posted 125 runs after a fighting partnership from their batsmen. This win marked Shreyas Iyer's first as captain, ending a winless streak.

Vaibhav Sooryavanshi became the youngest player to score an international T20 fifty. He achieved this remarkable feat against Zimbabwe in Harare on Thursday. The 15-year-old smashed his half-century in just eighteen balls. This explosive innings featured four boundaries and four sixes for India. The celebration was a tribute to his mother, Aarti, whose name starts with 'A'.

Teenage sensation Vaibhav Sooryavanshi faced early struggles in his international T20I debut series. He scored modest totals in his initial three innings against England. However, Sooryavanshi then achieved his first international half-century against Zimbabwe. This remarkable performance made him the youngest player to score a fifty in T20I cricket. His innings secured a victory for India in Harare.

Portugal's football federation risks millions in revenue and global attention after Cristiano Ronaldo retires. Experts warn of a major commercial and visibility crisis for the FPF without preparation. Ronaldo's immense global brand and social media influence far exceed the national team's current appeal. The federation must develop new strategies to attract sponsors and audiences post-Ronaldo.

England's cricket board has revealed a busy 2027 home schedule. The men's and women's Ashes series against Australia will run concurrently. England will also host Pakistan and New Zealand for white-ball matches. The Rose Bowl in Southampton will stage a men's Ashes Test for the first time. The Oval will host the 2027 World Test Championship final.

Mayank Yadav took a wicket with the first ball of the T20I match. He joined Arshdeep Singh and Hardik Pandya in this elite Indian bowling group. This was Yadav's second time achieving this specific T20I opening delivery dismissal. The review confirmed the wicket after an initial appeal was turned down. This gave India a perfect start to their bowling innings.

Without directly commenting on the ongoing protests or demands for the removal of Union education minister Dharmendra Pradhan, Bindra said the focus should remain on building a transparent and merit-based education system.

French football is anticipating a new era with Zinedine Zidane's expected appointment. The federation president will announce the new men's national team head coach Tuesday. Didier Deschamps departs after a successful fourteen-year tenure with the French team. Zidane returns to management after his successful spell with Real Madrid. The new coach will prepare for upcoming Nations League fixtures in September.

Ashok Sharma debuted for India in the T20I against Zimbabwe in Harare. He earned his cap after a strong domestic and IPL performance. His journey began in a small village, supported by family sacrifice. Sharma impressed in the Syed Mushtaq Ali Trophy and IPL 2026. He is now part of India's balanced bowling attack.

Shreyas Iyer set a new Indian T20I captaincy record by winning his eighth consecutive toss during the first T20I against Zimbabwe in Harare, surpassing MS Dhoni's previous mark of seven. Iyer chose to bowl first, citing expected bounce on the pitch. Zimbabwe captain Sikandar Raza anticipated a high-scoring contest despite some early assistance for bowlers.

The Oval will host the 2027 ICC World Test Championship Final from June 9 to 13. England secured hosting rights for the next three WTC Finals, continuing a trend. Australia currently leads the World Test Championship standings, followed by South Africa. This event coincides with the 150th anniversary of Test cricket. The ECB expressed delight in continuing to host this pinnacle Test cricket event.

India's Commonwealth Games campaign suffered a blow as judoka Arun Kumar was ruled ineligible after an adverse finding in an out-of-competition NADA dope test. The promising 73kg judoka, a gold medallist at the 2025 Taipei Asian Open, was set for his CWG debut. His withdrawal reduces India's Glasgow 2026 contingent from 125 to 124 athletes.

India has consistently used Zimbabwe tours to debut new T20I players. Several prominent cricketers like Virat Kohli and KL Rahul first represented India there. Recent tours have also seen fresh faces like Abhishek Sharma and Riyan Parag emerge. These series provide a platform for emerging talent to gain international experience. The BCCI continues this practice, showcasing young Indian cricketers.

PV Sindhu's China Open campaign ended in the second round after a spirited 21-16, 20-22, 18-21 defeat to world No. 4 Chen Yufei. Fresh from her Japan Open title, Sindhu squandered four match points in the second game before the Tokyo Olympic champion staged a comeback to win a gripping 90-minute contest and reach the quarterfinals.

India has secured its first medal at the Commonwealth Games 2026 before the opening ceremony, with Olympic medallist Lovlina Borgohain assured of at least bronze after receiving a semifinal bye. She faces T.K.B.P. Taafaki on July 31 for a place in the final. India begins its Glasgow campaign with a 124-member contingent targeting success across multiple sports.

Once enjoyed by Sardar Vallabhbhai Patel, bridge has faded from India's sporting landscape. Seventeen-year-old prodigy Anshul Bhatt hopes to change that. Inspired by Viswanathan Anand's belief that bridge is where chess was two decades ago, Anshul is winning world titles, mentoring young players, conducting research, and building a movement to give the mind sport its long-awaited breakthrough in India.

Former opener Abhinav Mukund has revealed his 2027 ODI World Cup squad. He included veteran Rohit Sharma and excluded Sanju Samson and Yashasvi Jaiswal. Shubman Gill is now close to the top ODI batting ranking. Virat Kohli and Rohit Sharma also feature in the top five batters. Kuldeep Yadav slipped in the bowler rankings after the recent series.

The Hundred, the unique tournament featuring 100-ball innings, is back with its sixth edition. Much has changed, and yet not a lot has changed. It still has eight teams, still features 100-ball innings where bowlers can bowl spells of five or 10 consecutive balls, and is still objectively meant to quicken the game and feature double headers - men and women - on the same day.

A mural honouring Spain's World Cup hero Ferran Torres was vandalised within 24 hours of being unveiled in Barcelona. Created by street artist TVBoy, it was repeatedly defaced with political graffiti, including volem seleccions catalanes (we want Catalan national teams), before being removed by city authorities. Despite its brief existence, the artwork highlighted the intersection of football, art and Catalan politics.

The spotlight will once again be on teenage sensation Vaibhav Sooryavanshi. Harare is the venue where the 15-year-old announced himself on the global stage with a stunning 175 off 80 balls against England in the U-19 World Cup final in Jan. His opening partner Abhishek Sharma also has happy memories here, having scored his maiden T20I hundred at the ground in 2024.

India begins its Commonwealth Games campaign in Glasgow with a compact contingent. The program features ten sports, a significant reduction from previous games. Athletics forms the backbone of the campaign with many competitors. Mirabai Chanu and Lovlina Borgohain are key figures for India. Glasgow offers a learning opportunity before India hosts the games in 2030.

Argentina assistant coach Roberto Ayala apologized for his actions during a post-match altercation. He admitted his behavior was unacceptable after Spain defeated Argentina in the World Cup final. Ayala expressed regret for losing control and stated his intention was to separate players. He accepted full responsibility for his actions during the chaotic post-game scenes. FIFA has launched an investigation into the post-match brawl involving players and staff.