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Indian chess prodigy R Praggnanandhaa has earned a coveted spot in the Candidates 2026 tournament by triumphing in the FIDE Circuit 2025. His stellar year, marked by victories in major events, secures his sole male representation for India. Seven participants are confirmed, with one remaining spot to be decided by rating.

Former India all-rounder Irfan Pathan urged Shubman Gill to seize his T20 opening opportunity against South Africa, emphasizing the need to solidify his spot for the 2026 World Cup. Pathan also highlighted the crucial search for a reliable finisher to support Hardik Pandya, naming Axar Patel, Jitesh Sharma, and Rinku Singh as potential candidates for the vital role.

Russian Grandmaster Volodar Murzin, the 2024 FIDE Rapid champion, is set to compete in the Global Chess League in Mumbai. He expressed his fondness for Indian cuisine, particularly mangoes, paneer, and sugarcane juice. Murzin also shared his confidence boost after winning the World Rapid title and his ambition to improve his classical chess game.

India's vice-captain Smriti Mandhana has resumed cricket training following the cancellation of her wedding to composer Palash Muchhal. She will soon return to competitive cricket in a T20I series against Sri Lanka, which serves as preparation for the T20 World Cup. Mandhana had previously confirmed the wedding's cancellation and emphasised her commitment to cricket.

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Joe Root has etched his name in the record books, albeit for an unwanted reason, after England's Gabba Test loss. Despite a maiden Australian century, Root's 16th winless match Down Under surpasses Kapil Dev's record. This defeat leaves England 2-0 down in the Ashes, extending their winless streak in Australia.

Under Article 2.22 of the ICC Code of Conduct for Players and Player Support Personnel which deals with minimum over-rate offences players are fined five per cent of their match fee for every over their team fails to bowl within the stipulated time.

Brendon McCullum's 'Bazball' approach faces intense criticism after England's poor Ashes start, with the coach admitting over-preparation. His comments sparked backlash, including from former player Darren Gough, highlighting the heated debate surrounding England's style and leadership.

Ravichandran Ashwin has appealed to Indian cricket fans for more constructive online discussions. He highlighted the negative trend of personal attacks following recent team performances. Ashwin stressed that debates should focus on selection and on-field output, not on labeling players. He believes this approach will foster a more positive environment for the sport and its followers.

Indian cricketer Smriti Mandhana and music composer Palash Muchhal have officially called off their wedding, which was previously postponed due to Mandhana's father's hospitalisation. Both stars confirmed the cancellation on Instagram, with Mandhana urging for privacy and emphasising her continued focus on representing India in cricket.

India's T20 strength is set to increase with the return of Hardik Pandya and Shubman Gill, according to captain Suryakumar Yadav. Their presence provides valuable balance and flexibility, offering multiple combinations for the team's strategy, especially with an eye on the upcoming T20 World Cup. This adaptability in batting order is seen as a significant advantage for the squad.

Pakistan's T20 skipper Salman Ali Agha indicated no major squad changes are expected for the upcoming World Cup, citing significant team improvement after players were assigned specific roles. With only six T20 matches remaining, the focus is on consistency with the current combination, though Shadab Khan's return is not ruled out.

India have been formidable since their T20 World Cup triumph last year, winning eight consecutive matches on their way to the title. Their dominant run has extended to 26 wins and just four losses, including a seven-match streak en route to the Asia Cup victory in Dubai. The team has not lost a T20I series in this period and will look to sharpen their edge against the side they defeated in the T20 World Cup final.

Amit Passi etched his name in T20 history by equaling the world record for the highest individual score on debut, smashing 114 off 55 balls for Baroda against Services. His explosive knock, featuring 10 fours and nine sixes, helped Baroda post 220/5 and has put him on the radar of IPL franchises.

India's 2025 cricket season saw young stars like Abhishek Sharma and Vaibhav Suryavanshi dominate search trends, even in Pakistan. While India triumphed over rivals on the field, it was these emerging talents who captured global attention, signaling a significant generational shift in cricket's digital landscape and highlighting the growing influence of women's cricket.

India cricketer Smriti Mandhana has confirmed her wedding to music composer Palash Muchhal is called off, following weeks of speculation. Teammate Jemimah Rodrigues has provided significant emotional support throughout the ordeal. Mandhana, however, remains focused on her cricket career, emphasising her commitment to representing India.

Shakib Al Hasan has admitted that extreme physical fatigue pushed him to intentionally chuck during an English County match for Surrey a move that ultimately led to his bowling suspension. The left-arm spinner was banned from bowling in all competitions governed by the England and Wales Cricket Board (ECB) after independent testing at Loughborough University in December last year deemed his action illegal.

Australia registered an eight-wicket win over Ben Stokes England in Brisbane on Sunday, taking a 2-0 lead in the five-match series. Contributions from Australias tail-enders, with pacers Michael Neser (16) and Brendan Doggett (13) supporting a strong 77 from Mitchell Starc, helped the home side post 511 in the first innings. Neser then claimed a five-wicket haul in the second innings, playing a crucial role in Australias dominant win.

Australia secured a commanding eight-wicket victory over England at The Gabba, taking a 2-0 Ashes lead. Stand-in captain Steve Smith playfully deflected questions about a heated on-field exchange with Jofra Archer, stating it was 'none of your business'. The win was bolstered by strong performances from Mitchell Starc and a maiden five-wicket haul from Michael Neser.

India secured a 2-1 ODI series victory against South Africa. The win was celebrated with light-hearted moments in the dressing room. Virat Kohli playfully teased Kuldeep Yadav, who was named Impact Player of the Series. Kuldeep had a stellar performance, taking nine wickets. The team now prepares for a T20I series.

Mumbai Smashers achieved an incredible Indian Pickleball League championship, climbing from sixth place to defeat Hyderabad Royals 5-1 in the Grand Finale. Their dramatic comeback, marked by strong singles and doubles performances, culminated in a decisive Grand Rally win, capping a remarkable underdog journey witnessed by Minister Kiren Rijiju.

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.

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

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.

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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.

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.

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.

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.

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.

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.

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.

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.

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.

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.

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.

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.

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.

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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.

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.

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.

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.

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.

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.

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.

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.

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.

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.