Pakistan pacer Haris Rauf reflected on Dubais testing conditions, admitting batters are struggling but backing the top order to anchor innings in upcoming matches.

Pakistan brushed aside the UAE by 41 runs to storm into the Super Four, setting up a blockbuster rematch against arch-rivals India on Sunday at the Dubai International Stadium.

Amidst uncertainty surrounding Pakistan's Asia Cup participation, the PCB demanded match referee Andy Pycroft's removal, alleging code of conduct violations during the India-Pakistan match, specifically regarding the captains not shaking hands. Despite PCB's threats and ACC's involvement, the ICC stood firm, asserting Pycroft followed ACC instructions and didn't violate any rules.

The match started an hour late as Pakistan threatened a pull-out after the handshake fiasco during the previous game against India before Salman Agha's team climbed down and showed up for the game.

Dwight Howard's Naismith Basketball Hall of Fame induction was met with excitement, but LeBron James' presence sparked debate among fans. Some felt James unintentionally stole the spotlight from Howard on his special day. Despite the speculation, neither Howard nor James have addressed the controversy, and Howard expressed gratitude for the legends who attended.

Lionel Messi has sent Prime Minister Narendra Modi a signed 2022 World Cup jersey ahead of his India tour in December. Promoter Satadru Dutta confirmed the gesture and said a meeting with Modi is being explored. The GOAT Tour of India 2025 will take Messi to Kolkata, Mumbai and Delhi.

Cristiano Ronaldos Siuuu celebration, first performed in 2013 at Real Madrid, features a mid-air leap, turn, and shouted Siiiiiuuu! Symbolizing a strong yes, it has become his trademark and a global phenomenon. Fans and athletes worldwide emulate it, celebrating victory, energy, and Ronaldos relentless passion for football.

Umpire Ruchira Palliyaguruge was forced off the field after being struck on the ear during Pakistans Asia Cup clash against UAE in Dubai. Pakistan posted 146/9, led by Fakhar Zamans 50 and Shaheen Afridis 29*. UAEs chase began shakily, with strikes from Saim Ayub and Abrar Ahmed in their very first overs.

The Saudi Pro League is witnessing a fascinating trend beyond big-name signings: player reunions. Clubs like Al-Nassr and Al-Ittihad are strategically assembling squads by reuniting former teammates, fostering instant chemistry and shared understanding.

Molly Qerim has resigned from ESPN's First Take. Stephen A. Smith was unaware of her decision. Her exit has surprised many fans. Social media is full of theories about her departure. Contract negotiations reportedly broke down. ESPN wanted her to stay. Qerim hinted at her next move on Instagram. Her departure marks a major shift for First Take.

Al Qadsiah FC, a rapidly growing team in the Saudi Pro League, has significantly invested in players, reaching a squad value of 125 million. Key acquisitions include Mateo Retegui, who signed a 65 million deal, and Musab Al-Juwayr, securing a five-year contract. Christopher Bonsu Baah also joined, while Jehad Thakri and Ibrahim Mahnashi remain vital to the team's structure.

Pakistan's FIA has busted a human trafficking ring camouflaged as a football team, arresting 22 individuals attempting illegal entry into Japan. Mastermind Malik Waqas allegedly created a fake football club, charging each person PKR 4 million with forged documents. He confessed to a similar operation earlier in 2024, highlighting the exploitation of sports for illegal migration.

Ali Mabkhout, the UAE star, continues his football journey. His net worth is estimated between $10 to $15 million in 2025. He plays for Al Nasr after a long stint with Al Jazira. Mabkhout is the UAE national team's top scorer with over 85 goals. He aims to keep scoring, with his contract running until 2026.

Al Hilal, a Saudi club, attracts global football stars with lucrative deals. The club invests heavily in players like Koulibaly, Neves and Milinkovi-Savi. Neymar's brief but impactful stint highlights Al Hilal's financial power. Darwin Nez and Tho Hernndez also feature among the top earners. Al Hilal aims for dominance on and off the field through strategic acquisitions.

Bayern Munich is set to clash with Chelsea in the Champions League at Allianz Arena. Harry Kane faces his former Premier League rivals. Kane has scored 93 goals for Bayern. He feels confident and physically strong. Bayern manager Vincent Kompany downplays league rivalries. Chelsea coach Enzo Maresca considers Bayern a favourite.

Why Hardik Pandya was ANIMATED during chat with Gautam Gambhir in Dubai | Asia Cup 2025

The Pakistan Cricket Board (PCB) issued a statement that ICC match referee Andy Pycroft apologized for the o-handshake incident during the India-Pakistan Asia Cup match, saying that it happened due to miscommunication. Earlier, the PCB formally requested Pycroft's replacement for their subsequent match, a request that was denied. Pycroft is the match referee for the game, leaving Pakistan in an embarrassing spot.

A major standoff threatened Pakistan's Asia Cup 2025 match against UAE after the ICC refused to replace match referee Andy Pycroft, despite PCB objections over his handling of the 'no-handshake' controversy with India. Initial uncertainty saw Pakistan delaying their departure for the game, and the ACC even deleted posts about the match.

A controversy erupted before the Pakistan-UAE Asia Cup match in Dubai due to Pakistan's objection to Andy Pycroft as match referee. The ICC stood by its decision, citing a centralized appointment process and clearing Pycroft of wrongdoing. The winner of the Pakistan-UAE game will book a berth in the next stage.

A cloud of uncertainty looms over the Asia Cup match between Pakistan and the UAE in Dubai, leading to a delayed start amidst reports of potential forfeit. The issue stemmed from Pakistan's objection to Andy Pycroft as match referee, despite the ICC clearing him of misconduct. While the UAE team reached the venue on time, the Pakistan team's departure was initially 'stopped'.

The Indian Street Premier League (ISPL) has launched a national framework to boost grassroots tennis-ball cricket. Dividing the country into eight zones, each managed by an ISPL panel, the initiative aims to identify and nurture talent. Sachin Tendulkar, ISPL Core Committee member, has emphasized the ISPL offering a clear pathway for players to showcase their skills.

Indian and Pakistani teams practiced in Dubai. Suryakumar Yadav, India's T20I captain, obliged a selfie request from a Pakistani hotel staff member. India defeated Pakistan in the Asia Cup. Suryakumar played a captain's knock. India will face Oman next. Pakistan will play against UAE. PCB wants ICC match referee Andy Pycroft removed after the handshake controversy.

Tensions escalate within the Pakistan camp ahead of their crucial Asia Cup match against UAE, as the ACC unexpectedly deleted its social media post promoting the game, raising concerns about Pakistan's participation.

Watching India and Pakistan train in Dubai highlighted the gulf between the two sides. Indias discipline, punctuality and structured sessions contrasted starkly with Pakistans disorganised approach. While Indian batters endured rigorous drills under coaches, Pakistan turned to casual football and trial-and-error practice mirroring their struggles on the field.

Shubman Gill and Abhishek Sharma are inseparable in the nets | Exclusive visuals from Dubai

Yusuf Pathan, former Indian cricketer and Trinamool Congress MP, has been declared an encroacher by the Gujarat High Court regarding a residential plot in Vadodara. The court rejected Pathan's petition against a notice from the Vadodara Municipal Corporation (VMC), ordering him to vacate the government-owned land he occupied since 2012.

Gautam Gambhir was in no mood to look at Pakistan practice in Dubai | Exclusive visuals from Dubai

Jemimah Rodrigues has been ruled out of the remaining two WODIs against Australia due to a viral infection and weakness, a significant setback for the Indian team. Tejal Hasabnis will replace her in the squad as India trails 1-0 in the series.

Irfan Pathan addressed the handshake controversy during the India-Pakistan Asia Cup match, emphasizing the alignment between cricketers, the BCCI, and the Indian government. The decision not to shake hands was a mark of respect for the families affected by the Pahalgam terror attack.

Grandmaster R Vaishali secured her spot in the Womens Candidates tournament 2026 by winning the Womens Grand Swiss in Samarkand, a remarkable comeback after a disastrous performance in Chennai. Her brother, GM Praggnanandhaa, and her family played a crucial role in convincing her to participate, before fate intervened.

Nineteen-year-old Sam Konstas strengthened his Ashes aspirations with a remarkable century, supported by Campbell Kellaway's impressive 88, as Australia 'A' challenged India 'A' bowlers on the first day. Konstas's 109 and Kellaway's 88 laid a solid foundation with a 198-run opening partnership. Harsh Dubey's 3/88 helped India 'A' claw back, restricting Australia 'A' to 337/5 at stumps.

A controversy erupted at the Asia Cup after Pakistan demanded the removal of match referee Andy Pycroft, alleging code of conduct violations following India's win. The PCB chairman criticized India's team for skipping handshakes and shutting their dressing room.

Concerns surrounded India's batting lineup post-Rohit and Kohli, particularly regarding Suryakumar Yadav's role. However, the Asia Cup game against Pakistan revealed a flexible Indian team with a strategic approach, mirroring England's successful T20 World Cup model.

Indian wrestlers faced tough competition at the World Championships in Zagreb, with most male athletes failing to reach the bronze medal matches. Aman Sehrawat's exit due to being overweight added to the disappointment. Sujeet Kalkal and Mukul Dahiya showed promise, but ultimately, the contingent struggled against their opponents.

Pakistan's threat to withdraw from the Asia Cup over a referee dispute could cost them millions in revenue, potentially jeopardising their financial stability within the Asian Cricket Council. This potential decision, driven by PCB chief Naqvi's criticism of the match referee, risks a significant loss from broadcast deals and sponsorships.

Indian fans are eagerly anticipating Neeraj Chopra's javelin throw qualification round, where he aims for an automatic 84.5m mark. He will be joined by compatriots Sachin Yadav, Rohit Yadav, and Yash Vir Singh. The competition is expected to be fierce, with Germany's Julian Weber and Pakistan's Arshad Nadeem also in contention.

Young rifle and pistol shooters from Pune missed their Akasa Air flight to Goa due to extensive security checks on their firearms and ammunition at Pune airport. This delay jeopardized their participation in the 12th West Zone Shooting Championship. Akasa Air acknowledged the issue and is arranging alternate travel for the affected athletes, expressing regret for the inconvenience caused.

Shahid Afridi has criticised the Indian cricket team for allegedly refusing post-match handshakes after their Asia Cup victory against Pakistan, citing a lack of sportsman spirit. Afridi suggests the players were instructed by the BCCI due to social media pressure and national sentiments.

Salem Al-Dawsari, a prominent figure in Saudi Arabian football, earns a substantial salary at Al-Hilal, estimated at 6.19 million annually until May 2025. While his exact net worth remains undisclosed, various reports suggest figures ranging from 2.03 million to significantly higher amounts, considering his bonuses, endorsements, and market value of 1.33 million.

Majed Abdullah, known as the 'Desert Pele', was a football icon. He was Saudi Arabia's all-time top scorer. He played for Al-Nassr throughout his career. Abdullah led Saudi Arabia to two AFC Asian Cup titles. His impact extended beyond goals. He elevated Al-Nassr and Saudi football. Even after retirement in 1998, he remained a respected figure.

The Pakistan Cricket Board is contemplating withdrawing from the Asia Cup due to a dispute over match referee Andy Pycroft following the India-Pakistan match. Pakistan demands Pycroft's removal, accusing him of mishandling the no-handshake incident and Suryakumar Yadav's dedication of the win to the victims of the Pahalgam terror attack.

Jaismine Lamboria's gold at the World Boxing Championships marks a triumphant comeback after a disappointing Olympic exit. Fueled by renewed motivation from the Indian Army and strategic training adjustments at the Army Sports Institute, she refined her technique and mental approach.

Aakash Chopra suggests India field an 'A' team in the Asia Cup 2025 alongside the main squad, drawing parallels with Australia's past strategy. He believes India A, potentially featuring players like Shreyas Iyer and Rishabh Pant, would provide valuable exposure to young talents. Chopra highlights Pakistan's batting lineup is weaker than India's second string, emphasizing India's depth.

The Asia Cup 2025 group stage intensifies as Bangladesh, Sri Lanka, and Afghanistan vie for Super 4 spots from Group B. Bangladesh's fate hinges on Afghanistan's clash with Sri Lanka, a virtual knockout. In Group A, India advances, while Pakistan and UAE face a decisive match for the remaining spot, promising high-stakes drama.

Michael Bracewell will captain New Zealand in the Chappell-Hadlee Trophy T20I series against Australia, as Mitchell Santner recovers from surgery. Kyle Jamieson and Ben Sears return to bolster the seam attack, while young batter Bevon Jacobs retains his spot. Several senior players are unavailable due to injuries, and Kane Williamson has opted out of the series.

Kylian Mbappe led Real Madrid to a 2-1 victory over Marseille in the Champions League. Xabi Alonso debuted as Madrid's coach with a win. Mbappe scored two penalties. Dani Carvajal received a red card. Arsenal defeated Athletic Bilbao 2-0. Tottenham won against Villarreal 1-0. Union Saint-Gilloise marked their Champions League debut with a 3-1 victory over PSV Eindhoven.

Amidst controversy, ICC match referee Andy Pycroft may be replaced for the Pakistan-UAE match following PCB's complaint regarding his conduct during the India game, which led to a o-handshake issue. The PCB demanded Pycroft's removal from the Asia Cup, threatening to pull out of the tournament.

Following Suryakumar Yadav's no-handshake gesture, former Pakistani player Mohammad Yousuf used derogatory language, sparking outrage. Yousuf defended his comments by referencing past incidents. Amidst heightened tensions and a complaint from the PCB regarding the match referee, the India-Pakistan match proceeded, with India winning. Despite threats, Pakistan is unlikely to withdraw from the Asia Cup.