The Times of India

Virat Kohli's return to the No. 1 ODI batting ranking was marred by an ICC error regarding his days at the top. Initially stated as 825 days, the figure was corrected to 1,547 days, placing him third all-time and first among Indians. This correction followed a backlash from fans and statisticians.

Riyan Parag, one of the early picks in Gautam Gambhirs coaching era, is nearing full fitness after a shoulder injury layoff. Currently training at the BCCIs Centre of Excellence, the all-rounder has resumed full-intensity bowling and batting. With injuries hitting Indias white-ball setup, Parag could re-enter contention pending clearance.

Bangladesh cricket in turmoil: What it means for the T20 World Cup?

A Rs 100 crore defamation suit has been filed against actress Khushi Mukherjee by social media personality Faizan Ansari. Ansari alleges Mukherjee's remarks about T20 captain Suryakumar Yadav were false and damaging. Mukherjee claims her comments were misinterpreted and denies any romantic involvement, stating any past communication was friendly and limited.

Keshav Maharaj press conference: 'Need to react better' | SA20

Ottneil Baartman press conference: On missing out of T20 World Cup squad | SA20

Canadian Olympic medallist Andre De Grasse, visiting Mumbai as ambassador for the Tata Mumbai Marathon, reflected on his journey from an accidental runner to a seven-time Olympic medallist. He discussed his iconic race against Usain Bolt, his favourite win at the Pan Am Games, and his ambition to compete in the 2028 Los Angeles Olympics.

The ICC is expected to visit Bangladesh for discussions regarding the national team's participation in the 2026 ICC T20 World Cup. Bangladesh's sports ministry and cricket board are firm on not traveling to India due to security concerns, insisting matches be played only in Sri Lanka. Dialogue continues to explore solutions.

Ottneil Baartmans sensational hat-trick and five-wicket haul powered Paarl Royals to a bonus-point win over Pretoria Capitals, sealing a playoff berth and top spot in the SA20 standings. Sikandar Raza chipped in with key wickets as the Capitals were bowled out for 127, a target the Royals chased comfortably.

Nitish Kumar Reddy, a seam-bowling allrounder, remains a puzzle for the Indian team management despite being seen as a key player. Captain Shubman Gill and others have shown reluctance to give him a significant role, raising questions about his future. Selectors aim to develop him as a backup for Hardik Pandya ahead of the 2027 World Cup.

All-rounder Washington Sundar's side strain is more serious than initially thought, casting doubt on his availability for the T20 World Cup's initial stages. The team management is preparing backup plans, with a decision on his participation pending a full medical assessment. Other injury concerns also loom for the Indian squad.

Indian cricket coach Gautam Gambhir sought blessings at Ujjain's Mahakaleshwar Temple before the crucial ODI series decider against New Zealand. He participated in the Bhasma Aarti and expressed contentment with the temple's arrangements. The three-match series is currently tied at 1-1, with the final match set to determine the winner.

Bangladesh cricketers ended their boycott of the BPL 2025-26 after controversial director Najmul Islam issued a public apology and was removed from his finance committee role. The standoff, triggered by Najmul's remarks about Tamim Iqbal and player compensation, saw matches postponed. Players agreed to return to action following a meeting with the BCB and CWAB.

Pakistan batter Sahibzada Farhan sparked online ridicule by choosing Ahmed Shehzad over cricketing legends like Sachin Tendulkar and Virender Sehwag in a questionnaire. Farhan cited Shehzad as an inspiration for his own cricket journey. Former Pakistan cricketers Basit Ali and Kamran Akmal expressed disbelief and apologized for Farhan's controversial selection.

Cricketer Manoj Tiwary expressed deep hurt over Mary Kom's public statements about her ex-husband, Karung Onkholer Kom, highlighting the crucial role of a support system for athletes. Tiwari emphasized the importance of mutual contribution in relationships and voiced concern for Onkholer's mental well-being following the public dispute over alleged financial misconduct.

Harleen Deol's unbeaten 64 guided UP Warriorz to their first WPL 2026 win, defeating defending champions Mumbai Indians by seven wickets. Deol's stellar performance anchored the chase after Mumbai's Nat Sciver-Brunt's 65 had earlier propelled them to 161 for five. UPW sealed the target with seven wickets in hand.

Englands Ashes defeat in Australia was shaped as much by selection conservatism as on-field execution. Like India before them, they prioritised batting depth over wicket-taking firepower, rarely playing four frontline fast bowlers.

The Badminton World Federation acknowledged player concerns at the India Open Super 750, citing seasonal challenges like haze and indoor air quality. Despite issues including bird droppings and a monkey sighting, the BWF maintained the Indira Gandhi Sports Complex is a significant upgrade and capable of hosting major events, with insights guiding future improvements.

Cricketers' Welfare Association of Bangladesh (CWAB) stated players will return to cricket if BCB director M Najmul Islam issues a public apology and his removal process progresses. Players reconsidered their boycott, citing the impact on national teams and the importance of the Bangladesh Premier League.

Henil Patel's spectacular five-wicket haul powered India U19 to a commanding six-wicket victory over USA U19 in their World Cup opener. Despite a rain delay, India successfully chased a revised target, with Abhigyan Kundu's unbeaten 42 guiding them home. Patel's bowling brilliance set the tone, restricting the USA to a mere 107.

Bangladesh all-rounder Mehidy Hasan Miraz expressed deep disappointment over BCB director M Nazmul Islam's recent comments, which he believes fuel a misleading narrative about player compensation and disrespect the team's efforts. Miraz emphasized that player earnings are generated through performance and participation in tournaments, not from taxpayers' money, highlighting the financial realities of the sport.

South Africa's captain Laura Wolvaardt has been named ICC Women's Player of the Month for December after a stellar performance. She led her team to series victories against Ireland, scoring three centuries across T20I and ODI formats, including an unbeaten 115 in a T20I and back-to-back ODI centuries. This marks her second Player of the Month award in three months.

Because of the delayed start to the season, Indian clubs will not be able to complete the mandatory 24 matches across the top-tier league and domestic cup required for direct entry into AFC club competitions.

Mitchell Starc has been crowned ICC Men's Player of the Month for December, celebrating his stellar Ashes performance. The Australian speedster claimed 16 wickets and amassed 139 runs in December alone, contributing significantly to his team's iconic series victory. Starc's all-round prowess was key, earning him this prestigious award over strong contenders like Justin Greaves and Jacob Duffy.

Suryakumar Yadav, the captain, has best horoscope | Greenstone Lobo predicts

India's assistant coach Ryan ten Doeschate acknowledged Nitish Kumar Reddy's struggle to impress despite opportunities, while noting Rohit Sharma's lack of recent match practice. The team might have misjudged conditions, potentially needing an extra spinner. KL Rahul's strong form offers batting order flexibility, and Ravindra Jadeja's bowling is deemed improving despite recent wicket scarcity.

Bangladesh Cricket Board director M Nazmul Islam has been removed from all his duties. This decision came after cricketers demanded his resignation. The controversy erupted over his remarks regarding player remuneration and the country's potential withdrawal from the T20 World Cup. Players threatened to boycott cricket if he did not step down.

India's T20 World Cup hopes face a significant setback as all-rounder Washington Sundar is battling a serious injury. He is set to miss the upcoming T20 series against New Zealand and faces a race against time for the World Cup. A thorough assessment at the BCCI Centre of Excellence will determine his recovery timeline.

With the Candidates Tournament approaching, seasoned chess titans Hikaru Nakamura, Fabiano Caruana, and Anish Giri face what could be their final realistic shot at the world chess title. Despite their experience, younger players' vigour and complete skillsets pose a significant challenge, making this a pivotal moment for the established stars.

Hardik Pandya's festive kite-flying with Mahieka Sharma in Jaipur went viral, sparking discussions about his fitness. Despite being sidelined from the ongoing ODI series against New Zealand due to bowling workload concerns, Pandya showcased strong all-round form in domestic cricket. He is expected to return for the upcoming T20I series, crucial for India's T20 World Cup preparations.

11 foreign players have departed their respective ISL clubs in January and more could be on their way out. The truncated 2025-26 season will get underway on February 14, for which a one-time AFC exemption was granted. With revenues and commercials significantly hit, clubs have been forced to take steps to cut costs.

Al Ittihad president Anmar Al Haili revealed Lionel Messi rejected a staggering 1.4 billion euro offer per year from the Saudi club. Messi prioritised his family over the immense financial package, opting instead for a move to Inter Miami. Saudi Arabia's ambition to attract top talent remains strong, with Cristiano Ronaldo already a key figure.

ISPL | Bengaluru Strikers' Sumeet Dhekale on unique rules of the competition

Bangladesh cricket faces turmoil as a board director's controversial remarks about national cricketers sparked a boycott threat. The Bangladesh Cricket Board issued a show-cause notice and expressed regret over the comments, urging players to reconsider their stance. The BPL faced immediate disruption, with match toss delays reported amid the escalating crisis.

Stephen Fleming press conference: How JSK are dealing with absence of Faf du Plessis

Senuran Muthusamy press conference: 'Aiming to carry momentum into playoffs' | SA20

KL Rahul's composed century against New Zealand showcased a newfound clarity and control, a stark contrast to his career's past uncertainties. Batting at number five, he displayed classic ODI prowess, proving old-school techniques still hold value. This assured knock, his first ODI ton since the World Cup, highlights his dedication to establishing a stable role in the team.

Sunrisers Eastern Cape sealed a playoff berth with a dominant 63-run bonus-point win over Joburg Super Kings at St Georges Park. Debutant James Coles starred with an unbeaten fifty and two wickets, while Senuran Muthusamys spin strangled JSK.

Japanese wrestling champion Yui Susaki, a four-time world champion and Olympic gold medalist, expressed her desire to face Indian wrestler Vinesh Phogat again after a surprising defeat. Susaki views the loss as a crucial learning experience, fueling her ambition for future Olympic gold medals and inspiring others with her resilience.

Danish badminton player Anders Antonsen withdrew from the India Open for the third consecutive year due to extreme air pollution in Delhi, citing hazardous air quality readings. The world No. 3's decision resulted in a $5,000 fine from the Badminton World Federation. Meanwhile, a monkey was spotted in the stadium stands, drawing attention but not disrupting play.

India's U-19 World Cup campaign kicks off with 14-year-old Vaibhav Sooryavanshi poised to break Virat Kohli's Youth ODI run record. Sooryavanshi, already with 973 runs in 18 innings, needs just six more to surpass Kohli's mark. This prodigious talent is a key player for the favoured Indian squad, aiming for a record sixth title.

Former India batter Kris Srikkanth has voiced concerns over India's ODI team balance, questioning Axar Patel's continued exclusion. He highlighted Ravindra Jadeja's inconsistent form and the team's need for a reliable sixth bowling option, especially after their recent loss to New Zealand. Srikkanth believes Axar's inclusion would strengthen the bowling attack.

Bangladesh cricket faces turmoil as a BCB director's remarks spark player boycott threats and jeopardize World Cup participation. The board distanced itself from the comments, emphasizing player welfare, while security concerns over playing in India persist. Former players and associations condemned the public criticism, highlighting damage to the sport's image.

India captain Shubman Gill admitted that his team failed to seize control in the crucial middle overs during their seven-wicket loss to New Zealand in the second ODI at the Niranjan Shah Stadium in Rajkot on Wednesday. Gill felt that the inability to pick up wickets during that phase made defending the total extremely difficult.