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The Times of India

Sports / The Times of India

'His retirement will be decided': Kaif makes bold statement on Rohit's future

Mohammad Kaif backs Rohit Sharma amid speculation about his international cricket future. Kaif insists retirement is a personal choice, not dictated by public opinion. Rohit recently scored a historic century at Lord's, silencing critics effectively. He believes team management support would greatly benefit the veteran opener. Kaif hopes for an end to unnecessary noise, allowing Rohit to play peacefully.

20 Jul 2026 5:21 pm
WATCH: Spain players form guard of honour for Messi after World Cup win

Spain secured the FIFA World Cup 2026 title after a hard-fought extra-time victory over Argentina. The Spanish team formed a guard of honour for Lionel Messi and his teammates. Ferran Torres scored the decisive goal which handed La Roja their second World Cup. Messi's quest for a second World Cup title ended as Argentina's reign concluded. Spain's disciplined defence successfully contained the legendary Argentine captain throughout the match.

20 Jul 2026 5:13 pm
Brendon McCullum press conference: Comeback win, Joe Root and World Cup plans

Brendon McCullum press conference: Comeback win, Joe Root and World Cup plans

20 Jul 2026 4:32 pm
A World Cup of records, redemption and remarkable stories: How football won the summer

Spain and Argentina fought for the sport's biggest prize right down to the very last kick of extra time, watched by a global audience that dwarfed anything politics could ever hope to command. In the end, the football did what it has always done best, it brought people together, across borders and languages and passports, no matter what was happening outside the stadium gates. That, more than any scoreline, is why this World Cup will be remembered as the biggest and perhaps one of the best ever

20 Jul 2026 4:29 pm
'It's not just about scoring or assisting': Cucurella explains why Rodri deserved Golden Ball

Spain defender Marc Cucurella lauded captain Rodri's Golden Ball award. Rodri was recognized for his exceptional performances during Spain's World Cup 2026 victory. He controlled the midfield and organized the team throughout the entire tournament. Cucurella emphasized Rodri's invaluable contribution beyond mere goals and assists. Rodri's midfield mastery earned him the prestigious award over other stars.

20 Jul 2026 4:18 pm
'Messi, Messi!': Argentina fans honour their captain as Spain lift WC trophy

Spain defeated Argentina 1-0 in the FIFA World Cup 2026 final after extra time. Lionel Messi's final World Cup match ended in heartbreak for the legendary player. Thousands of Argentine fans showed unwavering support for Messi despite the disappointing loss. Spain's disciplined performance denied Messi opportunities to influence the crucial match. The defeat concluded Argentina's bid to defend their World Cup title successfully.

20 Jul 2026 3:55 pm
Spain's celebrations turn tragic as 13-year-old dies after FIFA WC 2026 victory

A tragic incident occurred during Spain's World Cup victory celebrations in Ciudad Rodrigo. Part of a historic fountain collapsed, killing a thirteen-year-old boy. Two other individuals sustained injuries in the unfortunate event. The town hall expressed deep sorrow for the heartbreaking loss. What should have been a joyous occasion turned into a somber moment.

20 Jul 2026 3:38 pm
'It was written': Pedri's cryptic 13-month-old post goes viral after Spain's WC win

Spain midfielder Pedri celebrated their FIFA World Cup 2026 victory with a mysterious social media post. He had shared a cryptic number sequence over a year prior to the triumph. This sequence was interpreted by fans as the date of the final match. Spain defeated Argentina 1-0 after extra time to secure their second title. Pedri played a vital role throughout the team's successful campaign.

20 Jul 2026 3:16 pm
Away from the bell and egg-and-bacon ties, Rohit Sharma keeps his own England tradition alive at Lord's

In the lead-up to the third ODI between India and England at Lord's, more focus was on Rohit Sharma than the series decider itself. With India's ODI World Cup plans underway, Rohit's form came under fire, and retirement rumours gathered momentum. With Virat Kohli batting at the other end in a monstrous 388-run chase, he decided to shut them down by becoming the first Indian to score a ton at the Home of Cricket.

20 Jul 2026 1:42 pm
'We understand each other': Rohit opens up on special bond with Kohli

Rohit Sharma scored a century in the third ODI against England. He spoke about his strong partnership with Virat Kohli after the match. The duo has now scored over 8,000 runs together in ODIs. They also became the first Indian pair to play 400 international matches. The team aims to improve collectively after the series loss.

20 Jul 2026 12:40 pm
'Let the noise be there': Rohit Sharma brushes aside retirement talk

Rohit Sharma silenced retirement rumors with a century against England at Lord's. He scored 138 runs, nearly guiding India to a record chase. Sharma stated his focus remains on contributing to the team's success. He pays no attention to outside noise and its presence. His performance keeps him in contention for future matches.

20 Jul 2026 11:51 am
Nine runs to win, 1 wicket in hand: New Zealand clinch thriller vs WI

New Zealand held their nerve to beat West Indies by one wicket in a low-scoring contest, taking an unassailable 3-1 lead in the five-match ODI series.

20 Jul 2026 11:35 am
Will Lionel Messi retire? Argentina coach breaks silence

Spain secured their second FIFA World Cup title after defeating Argentina in the 2026 final. Substitute Ferran Torres scored the decisive goal in extra time, ending Argentina's reign. Lionel Messi's future remains his personal decision, according to coach Lionel Scaloni. Spain completed an unbeaten tournament, conceding only one goal throughout their campaign. This victory marked Spain's first World Cup win since their triumph in 2010.

20 Jul 2026 9:58 am
Rohit Sharma fires but India fold at Lord's, finish tour with just one win

Head coach Gautam Gambhir will board the flight from London having won just one match on a white-ball tour which also includes suffering a T20I whitewash at the hands of Ireland. Shubman Gill is yet to win a series since he took over the captaincy from Rohit last October.

20 Jul 2026 9:48 am
Spain become first world champions to achieve this incredible defensive feat

Spain secured their second FIFA World Cup title after defeating Argentina in extra time. They became the fourth team to win without trailing and the first to concede just one goal. Ferran Torres scored the decisive winning goal in the 106th minute of the match. Spain's journey included a surprising draw and several hard-fought victories throughout the tournament.

20 Jul 2026 9:24 am
Lionel Messi exits FIFA World Cup in tears and as football's greatest

Messi, head bowed, hands on his hips, watched 19-year-old Lamine Yamal embrace Torres after the winning goal. Moments later, with tears running down his cheeks, he collected his runners-up medal while Spain celebrated amid confetti and fireworks.

20 Jul 2026 9:09 am
Revealed: The eye-watering amount Spain players will earn for winning the 2026 FIFA World Cup

Spains 2026 World Cup triumph delivered a historic financial reward, with each player reportedly set to receive around $883,000 from the teams winners bonus. FIFA awarded the Spanish federation a record $51 million prize after their 1-0 extra-time victory over Argentina. The expanded tournament prize fund saw record payments distributed across all participating nations.

20 Jul 2026 8:36 am
'Hurts me in the soul': Scaloni breaks down after Argentina's loss

Argentina's coach Lionel Scaloni expressed deep sadness after their World Cup final loss to Spain. He cited unexpected injuries and immense player weariness as contributing factors to the defeat. Scaloni is now contemplating his future with the national team after his contract expires. He plans to discuss his decision with Argentina Football Association president Claudio Tapia soon. Building another successful team again presents a significant challenge for the coach.

20 Jul 2026 8:25 am
From London: How India lost another ODI series | The Rohit Sharma retirement buzz and more

From London: How India lost another ODI series | The Rohit Sharma retirement buzz and more

20 Jul 2026 8:00 am
Lionel Messi, Lamine Yamal share emotional hug after Spain's World Cup triumph

Spain secured their second FIFA World Cup title after defeating Argentina. Substitute Ferran Torres scored the decisive goal in extra time. Youngster Lamine Yamal shared a memorable moment with Lionel Messi on the pitch. The Spanish team completed a dominant performance throughout the entire match. This victory marked Spain's second time lifting the prestigious World Cup trophy.

20 Jul 2026 7:42 am
Messi branded a baby after desperate failed attempt to get Cucurella sent off in World Cup final defeat

Messis World Cup final frustration sparked controversy after he appealed for action against Marc Cucurellas mouth-covering exchange during Argentinas defeat to Spain. While no punishment followed, pundits criticised the reaction as unsportsmanlike. Spain ultimately prevailed through Ferran Torres extra-time winner, ending Argentinas title defence and leaving Messis final World Cup appearance marked by disappointment.

20 Jul 2026 7:36 am
Awkward! Trump remains on podium during trophy celebrations; Infantino steps in

Spain secured their second World Cup title by defeating Argentina 1-0 in extra time. US President Donald Trump stood with the Spanish players during the trophy presentation ceremony. Boos were heard around the stadium as Trump and Infantino walked onto the field. Ferran Torres scored the decisive goal in the 106th minute of the match. Trump had previously intervened in a red card controversy during the tournament.

20 Jul 2026 7:09 am
India's bowling lacks bite without Bumrah; middle-over planning all over the place

England dominated the third ODI against India at Lord's, amassing a record 387/3, led by a huge opening partnership between Jacob Bethell and Ben Duckett. India's bowlers, missing Jasprit Bumrah, struggled with discipline and conceded many extras. Poor middle-over planning further exposed India's bowling vulnerabilities, raising concerns for their 2027 ODI World Cup preparations.

20 Jul 2026 7:00 am
Ferran Torres only the second player to achieve this rare WC final feat

Spain secured their second FIFA World Cup title after defeating Argentina in the 2026 final. Ferran Torres scored the decisive goal in extra time, etching his name in history. He became the second substitute to score a World Cup final winner, matching a feat from 2014. Spain controlled possession and created numerous chances throughout the match. The victory ended Argentina's reign as defending world champions.

20 Jul 2026 6:38 am
'I can't believe it': Ferran Torres reacts after firing Spain to World Cup glory

Ferran Torres scored the winning goal in extra time for Spain's World Cup victory. He admitted disbelief after his decisive strike secured the historic championship. Torres dedicated his crucial goal to the entire Spanish population of forty-seven million. Spain's disciplined performance concluded an unbeaten tournament campaign for the team. This triumph marked Spain's second FIFA World Cup title after their 2010 win.

20 Jul 2026 6:33 am
'A disgrace': Argentina star sent off after grabbing Spain player's throat after loss

Spain's 2026 FIFA World Cup celebrations were marred by chaotic post-match scenes after Argentina midfielder Leandro Paredes was sent off following a mass confrontation after the final whistle. The defending champions' frustrations boiled over after their 1-0 extra-time defeat, with Paredes dismissed for his role in the altercation as pundits Gary Neville and Alan Shearer condemned Argentina's conduct.

20 Jul 2026 6:30 am
20 shots to none: How Spain utterly owned Argentina in World Cup final and rendered Messi irrelevant

Spain's triumph was built not on moments of brilliance alone but on collective superiority. Luis de la Fuente's side controlled possession, dictated territory and suffocated every avenue Argentina attempted to explore. World Cup finals are often remembered for drama, controversy or moments of individual inspiration. This one will be remembered for something far rarer - complete domination. Spain didn't just beat the defending champions. They made them disappear.

20 Jul 2026 6:00 am
Mbapp scripts World Cup history as first player to win back-to-back Golden Boots

Kylian Mbapp made FIFA World Cup history by becoming the first player to win consecutive Golden Boots, finishing the 2026 tournament with 10 goals and four assists. The France captain beat Lionel Messi in a dramatic race after his third-place playoff brace, while also becoming the men's all-time World Cup leading goalscorer with 22 career goals.

20 Jul 2026 5:40 am
'Your tears are our tears, Captain': Heartbroken Messi breaks down after defeat

Spain secured their second World Cup title after defeating Argentina in the 2026 final. Lionel Messi's quest for consecutive titles ended in disappointment following a 0-1 extra-time loss. The Argentine Football Association shared an emotional tribute to their captain after the match. Ferran Torres scored the decisive goal in the 106th minute of the contest. This defeat concluded a significant era for Argentinian football history.

20 Jul 2026 5:21 am
Spain's Rodri beats Lionel Messi and Kylian Mbapp as FIFA names World Cup's best player

Rodri was named the 2026 FIFA World Cup Golden Ball winner after inspiring Spain to a 1-0 extra-time victory over Argentina in the final. The Manchester City midfielder dominated the midfield battle, helping neutralise Lionel Messi and control the game's tempo. His consistent performances throughout the tournament earned FIFA's top individual honour ahead of Messi, Kylian Mbapp and Jude Bellingham.

20 Jul 2026 5:09 am
38 & counting! Spain are World Champions and the greatest unbeaten team in history

Spain celebrated a glorious achievement as they secured their second World Cup title with a narrow 1-0 victory over Argentina, courtesy of Ferran Torres' significant second-half goal. This win highlighted Spain's astonishing unbeaten run of 38 matches, surpassing Italy's long-standing record. Lionel Messi concluded his illustrious international career, showcasing stellar stats throughout the tournament that will be remembered in football history.

20 Jul 2026 5:01 am
FIFA World Cup 2026 awards: Full winners list as Rodri, Mbappe claim top honours

Spain secured the 2026 FIFA World Cup title after defeating Argentina in the final. Rodri earned the Golden Ball for his midfield dominance throughout the tournament. Goalkeeper Unai Simon received the Golden Glove for his exceptional defensive performance. Teenage defender Pau Cubarsi was named FIFA Young Player of the Year. France captain Kylian Mbappe claimed the Golden Boot with ten goals.

20 Jul 2026 4:53 am
Harry Brook press conference: Special words for Rohit Sharma, series win and more

Harry Brook press conference: Special words for Rohit Sharma, series win and more

20 Jul 2026 4:41 am
Shubman Gill explains why India lost | On bowling, Kuldeep Yadav, Rohit Sharma retirement & injuries

Shubman Gill explains why India lost | On bowling, Kuldeep Yadav, Rohit Sharma retirement & injuries

20 Jul 2026 4:39 am
Spain set all-time defensive record with just one goal conceded en route to 2026 crown

Spain clinched their second World Cup title with an unprecedented defensive display, allowing only one goal throughout the tournament. This remarkable solidity provided the foundation for their attackers to flourish. Unai Simon, the standout goalkeeper, secured the Golden Glove for his remarkable saves. Spain's tactical discipline not only showcased their strength but also established a new standard for international football defenses.

20 Jul 2026 4:30 am
Who is Ferran Torres? Spain's World Cup final hero who broke Argentina's heart

Spain achieved their second World Cup title after Ferran Torres scored a late goal. The substitute's decisive strike came in extra time against defending champions Argentina. Torres's goal broke Argentina's stubborn defense after a dominant Spanish performance. This victory denied Lionel Messi a chance to retain the World Cup crown. Spain also became the first nation to hold both men's and women's World Cup titles.

20 Jul 2026 4:01 am
Spain dethrone Argentina to win FIFA World Cup! Torres delivers extra-time heartbreak to Messi's side

Spain secured a dramatic FIFA World Cup victory over Argentina. Ferran Torres scored the decisive goal in extra time, ending the match 1-0. Argentina played with ten men after Enzo Fernandez received a red card. Lionel Messi's final World Cup appearance concluded without a trophy. Spain celebrated their second World Cup title after a long wait.

20 Jul 2026 3:32 am
Late drama! Enzo Fernandez sent off as Argentina reduced to 10 men before extra time

Argentina faced extra time with ten players after Enzo Fernandez received a red card. Spain dominated possession and shots but could not score against Emiliano Martinez. The goalkeeper made a record ten saves to keep Argentina in the match. This historic goalless final entered extra time after ninety minutes. Both teams sought to win the prestigious World Cup trophy.

20 Jul 2026 3:02 am
No card for Tagliafico! Yamal challenge reignites Argentina favouritism debate - Watch

A controversial tackle by Nicolas Tagliafico in the World Cup final sparked debate. Many fans questioned why the Argentina defender escaped a booking for his challenge. This incident brought back memories of previous refereeing controversies surrounding Argentina. Spain dominated possession and controlled the tempo during the first half. The match remained goalless at halftime with few shots recorded.

20 Jul 2026 2:24 am
FIFA World Cup final: Spain choke Argentina into unwanted first-half history

Spain controlled the World Cup final's first half, denying Argentina any scoring opportunities. Argentina failed to register a single shot on goal before halftime, a historical anomaly. The match remained goalless at the interval, reflecting Spain's tactical superiority. This marked the ninth World Cup final to feature a scoreless first half. The tournament concluded with Spain seeking their second title and Argentina defending theirs.

20 Jul 2026 1:56 am
Watch: Donald Trump makes dramatic Marine One arrival at FIFA World Cup final

United States President Donald Trump attended the FIFA World Cup 2026 final match. He arrived via Marine One and sat with FIFA president Gianni Infantino. Trump expressed his belief that the tournament solidified America as a football nation. He also publicly urged FIFA to consider another World Cup bid for the United States. The president declined to predict the final match outcome.

20 Jul 2026 1:14 am
Yamal creates history, becomes first teenager to play in both Euro & World Cup finals

Lamine Yamal achieved a historic football milestone before the World Cup final. He became the first teenager to play in both a Euro and a World Cup final. Yamal was instrumental in Spain's journey to the championship match. The young player's performance has been a key factor for his team. Spain faced Argentina in the title clash for the coveted trophy.

20 Jul 2026 12:19 am
Messi creates history, becomes first captain to lead a nation in three WC finals

Lionel Messi captained Argentina in his third World Cup final. He previously led his team in the 2014 and 2022 finals. Messi aims to win consecutive World Cup titles for Argentina. Argentina reached the final after a comeback win against England. Spain advanced after defeating France in their semifinal match.

19 Jul 2026 11:59 pm
ARG vs ESP WC final: How much the champions will earn from a record $871M prize fund

The 2026 FIFA World Cup will award a record $51 million to the champions. Runners-up will receive $34 million, and the total prize pool reaches $871 million. Every participating nation is guaranteed at least $12.5 million for qualifying and preparation. This expanded prize money reflects FIFA's increased financial commitment to the tournament. Prize money goes to national federations, not directly to the players.

19 Jul 2026 11:24 pm
Rohit and Kohli script history, break into ODI's all-time top two list

Rohit Sharma and Virat Kohli achieved their twenty-first ODI century partnership. This milestone placed them second in all-time ODI history for century stands. The duo also became the first Indian pair to play 400 international matches together. Rohit Sharma scored a remarkable 138 runs during the chase. England had earlier posted a formidable 387 for three at Lord's.

19 Jul 2026 11:04 pm