Sports / The Times of India
Josh Hazlewood - we picked up momentum from Jiteshs knock in Lucknow
Punjab Kings bowling coach James Hopes on where it went wrong - after the first over
Suyash Sharma's game-changing googly and Royal Challengers Bengaluru's dominant performance led to an eight-wicket victory over Punjab Kings in Qualifier 1, securing their spot in the IPL 2025 final. Sharma's 3-17 spell dismantled PBKS, who were bundled out for 101, while Phil Salt's explosive fifty guided RCB to a comfortable chase in just 10 overs.
Phil Salt's explosive half-century propelled Royal Challengers Bengaluru into the IPL 2025 final with a dominant eight-wicket victory over Punjab Kings in Qualifier 1. RCB chased down the paltry target of 102 in just 10 overs, securing the biggest win by balls remaining in IPL playoff history.
Phil Salt's explosive unbeaten 56 propelled Royal Challengers Bengaluru to their first IPL final since 2016, dismantling Punjab Kings in Qualifier 1. RCB's dominant bowling, led by Hazlewood and Sharma, restricted Punjab to a paltry 101. Salt's calculated aggression, fueled by a desire to avoid Arshdeep Singh's dismissal, ensured a swift victory, setting up a title clash in Ahmedabad.
Royal Challengers Bengaluru dominated Punjab Kings, securing an eight-wicket victory in Qualifier 1 and advancing to their first IPL final since 2016. Punjab's aggressive batting faltered, leading to a mere 101 runs. RCB chased the target in 10 overs, propelled by Phil Salt's explosive half-century.
Novak Djokovic, fresh off his 100th career title, was seen cycling around the Arc de Triomphe in Paris before his French Open match. The tennis star, helmeted and in a tracksuit, navigated the busy roundabout, interacting with fans. This pre-match excursion highlights Djokovic's blend of fitness, city exploration, and relaxed composure before a major tournament.
Royal Challengers Bengaluru's dominant bowling attack dismantled Punjab Kings in Qualifier 1, restricting them to a mere 101 runs. RCB's bowlers, including Hazlewood and Sharma, wreaked havoc, while Punjab's batting crumbled with soft dismissals and rash shots. Salt's explosive innings propelled RCB to a comfortable victory, securing their spot in the IPL 2025 final.
Punjab Kings faced a heavy defeat against Royal Challengers Bengaluru in the IPL playoff. They were bowled out for just 101 runs. Shreyas Iyer urged his team to reflect on the performance. RCB's bowlers dominated, leading to PBKS's collapse. RCB chased the target easily, securing their place in the IPL 2025 final.
Punjab Kings' aggressive batting strategy backfired spectacularly in Qualifier 1 of IPL 2025, as they were bowled out for a mere 101 by Royal Challengers Bengaluru. RCB's pace attack, led by Hazlewood, and Suyash Sharma's spin dismantled Punjab's batting lineup. While Punjabs batting failed miserably, they might find some hope in their league-stage win over KKR at the same venue, where they defended 111 on a similarly challenging pitch.
Punjab Kings suffered a batting collapse in Qualifier 1 against Royal Challengers Bengaluru, getting bundled out for a mere 101 runs. RCB's pace attack, led by Bhuvneshwar Kumar, Yash Dayal, and Josh Hazlewood, dismantled PBKS's top order. Suyash Sharma's three-wicket haul further compounded the misery, resulting in the shortest completed innings in IPL playoff history as RCB dominated.
Preity Zinta's initial cheer turned to concern as Punjab Kings endured a disastrous start against Royal Challengers Bengaluru in their IPL 2025 Qualifier 1 match. PBKS lost four crucial wickets within the Powerplay, including key players like Priyansh Arya and Prabhsimran Singh. Zinta's changing expressions mirrored the team's struggles as they reeled under pressure after the early collapse.
Jannik Sinner ended the retiring Richard Gasquet's career with a one-sided victory at the French Open on Thursday, while Novak Djokovic looks to sharpen his game in the second round in his pursuit of a 25th Grand Slam title. I don't know how many more Grand Slams I've got left in my body, Djokovic said after the opening round.
Virat Kohli's fervent celebrations were a highlight as Royal Challengers Bengaluru faced Punjab Kings in the IPL 2025 Qualifier 1. Josh Hazlewood's crucial early breakthrough, dismissing Shreyas Iyer, ignited Kohli's passionate reaction. RCB, after winning the toss and electing to bowl, included Hazlewood in place of Nuwan Thushara, while Punjab Kings brought in Azmatullah Omarzai.
Rajat Patidar, Royal Challengers Bengaluru captain, chose to bowl first after winning the toss against Punjab Kings in the IPL 2025 Qualifier 1. RCB replaced Nuwan Thushara with Josh Hazlewood, while Punjab Kings brought in Azmatullah Omarzai for Marco Jansen. Yuzvendra Chahal's absence from Punjab Kings' XI due to a minor niggle raised concerns despite earlier hopes for his recovery.
Rajat Patidar, back from injury, led Royal Challengers Bengaluru after winning the toss and choosing to field against Punjab Kings in the IPL 2025 Qualifier 1. RCB brought in Josh Hazlewood for Nuwan Thushara, while Punjab Kings replaced Marco Jansen with Azmatullah Omarzai. Jitesh Sharma, who captained RCB in Patidar's absence, returned to his wicket-keeping role. Why is Jitesh Sharma not leading RCB today?
Luis Enrique, now PSG's coach, has revitalized the team and his own reputation, leading them to the Champions League final. Appointed after Messi's departure, he reshaped the squad, emphasizing possession and pressing. Despite initial skepticism and criticism for his tactics, particularly after Mbappe's exit, Enrique transformed winger Ousmane Dembele into a prolific scorer.
Punjab Kings and Royal Challengers Bengaluru are set to clash in a high-stakes playoff match at Mullanpur, vying for a spot in the IPL 2025 final. Weather forecasts predict partly cloudy skies with potential rain interruptions, possibly shortening the match. As per the Indian Meteorological Department (IMD), Mullanpur is expected to see partly cloudy skies with the possibility of one or two brief spells of rain or thundershowers in some areas.
'I don't want to be a one-season wonder': Punjab Kings' Shashank Singh
Under Shreyas Iyer's leadership, Punjab Kings have reached the playoffs after 11 years, driven by a collective team effort. Iyer aims to secure PBKS's first IPL title, fueled by his desire since the 2025 auction. Coach Ricky Ponting emphasizes the team's unified culture and focus, highlighting the importance of staying grounded despite their success.
Following the retirements of Virat Kohli, Rohit Sharma, and Ravichandran Ashwin, and Mohammed Shami's injury, Shubman Gill will captain an inexperienced Indian Test team in England. Cheteshwar Pujara expressed his readiness for a return if selected. Rishabh Pant has been named vice-captain, while B Sai Sudharsan and Arshdeep Singh receive their first Test call-ups for the challenging series.
Royal Challengers Bengaluru secured a top-two position in IPL 2025 after defeating Lucknow Super Giants, setting up a Qualifier 1 clash with Punjab Kings. RCB started strong, defeating KKR with Virat Kohli's 59 and Krunal Pandya's stellar bowling. They continued their winning streak against CSK, highlighted by Rajat Patidar's half-century and Josh Hazlewood's bowling.
The French Open witnesses fervent crowd support for home players, creating a challenging atmosphere for visiting athletes. Players like Jakub Mensik and Quentin Halys have harnessed the energy, while Novak Djokovic acknowledges the partisan environment. The intensity of the crowd is a recurring debate, with Roland Garros and the US Open's Arthur Ashe Stadium standing out for their boisterous fans.
Indian cricketer Shikhar Dhawan, separated from his son Zoravar since his 2023 divorce, shared heartfelt advice for him on a podcast, emphasizing happiness and self-reflection. Despite his ex-wife blocking all communication, Dhawan maintains a spiritual connection with Zoravar.
The BCCI confirmed Australia's women's team will tour India for a three-match ODI series in September, crucial for World Cup preparation. Chennai will host all matches, preceding India's England tour with five T20Is and three ODIs. Additionally, India A will host Australia and South Africa in multi-format series.
Punjab Kings secured a spot in Qualifier 1 of IPL 2025 after topping the standings, ending an 11-year playoff drought. Their journey included impressive wins against teams like Gujarat Titans and Lucknow Super Giants, fueled by strong performances from Shreyas Iyer and Prabhsimran Singh.
Punjab Kings (PBKS) are slightly ahead when it comes to head-to-head against the Royal Challengers Bengaluru (RCB). PBKS have won 18 matches, while RCB have come out on top in 17 games out of the 35 fixtures the league's perennial underachievers have played against each other. They have finished second on the IPL points table, and the winner will qualify directly for the final, while the loser will get another crack in Qualifier 2.
During a four-day match between Bangladesh and South Africa Emerging Teams, a physical altercation erupted between Tshepo Ntuli and Ripon Mondol after Mondol hit a six. The exchange escalated, involving shoves and helmet pulling, requiring umpire intervention. Tensions remained high, and the incident follows earlier suspensions in the one-day leg of the tour, prompting further investigation by cricket authorities.
On his 19th birthday, D Gukesh, the world champion, revitalised his Norway Chess campaign by defeating World No. 2 Hikaru Nakamura. After suffering consecutive losses, Gukesh secured a crucial win in 42 moves, showcasing improved time management.
Chelsea triumphed over Real Betis 4-1 in the UEFA Conference League final, securing their place as the first club to win all five major European trophies. After an early goal from Betis's Abde Ezzalzouli, Chelsea rallied with goals from Enzo Fernandez, Nicolas Jackson, Jadon Sancho, and Moises Caicedo.
Virat Kohli's unexpected retirement from Test cricket ahead of the England tour has surprised fans, marking the end of a significant era. He amassed 9,230 runs in 123 matches, averaging 55.57. Even Harbhajan Singh's daughter, Hinaya, expressed her disappointment, receiving a lighthearted reply from Kohli, who had previously retired from T20Is and will now concentrate on ODIs.
IPL 2025 witnessed Vaibhav Suryavanshi's explosive entry alongside Rishabh Pant's struggles, amidst a season disrupted by border conflicts. Mumbai Indians staged a comeback, Gujarat Titans maintained composure, and Royal Challengers Bengaluru dominated away games. Punjab Kings exceeded expectations, while Chennai Super Kings faltered, setting the stage for a thrilling playoff showdown.
Ravindra Jadeja credits two influential figures named Mahendra, both from Bihar, for shaping his cricket career. He highlights his childhood coach, Mahendra Singh Chauhan, for instilling a strong emphasis on fitness and fielding. Jadeja also praises MS Dhoni's unparalleled greatness and Virat Kohli's relentless pursuit of victory in Test cricket, emphasizing his positive approach.
RCB vs PBKS, IPL 2025, Qualifier 1: Quick singles from Mullanpur
Wrestlers Vinesh Phogat and Bajrang Punia have strongly criticised Brij Bhushan Sharan Singh after a Delhi court dismissed the POCSO Act case against him. Punia highlighted Singh's celebratory roadshow despite six other sexual harassment cases still pending. He alleges continued pressure on the remaining female wrestlers to withdraw their complaints.
Defending French Open champion Carlos Alcaraz earned progression to the third round with a convincing win, while two-time finalist Casper Ruud fell early. Alcaraz will face either Giovanni Mpetshi Perricard or Damir Dzumhur in the Round of 32. Ruud's defeat appears to have been caused by an injury that pestered him in the final two sets.
Why no Shreyas Iyer for England tour? Coach Gautam Gambhir opens up
Ravichandran Ashwin, who has been under scrutiny himself since the controversial run-out of Jos Buttler in IPL 2019, stood firmly in support of Lucknow Super Giants bowler Digvesh Rathi on Wednesday. Speaking on his YouTube channel, Ashwin dissected the incident involving Rathis attempt to dismiss Royal Challengers Bengalurus stand-in captain Jitesh Sharma at the non-strikers end during their IPL 2025 clash.
Seattle Orcas CEO Hemant Dua believes cricket will carve out a space for itself in the USA. He says if Major League Cricket (MLC) along with the other stakeholders can work hand in hand, then sky is the limit for cricket's expansion in the US. In a free-wheeling interview with TimesofIndia.com, Dua spoke at length about the various issues, the challenges, the ambition, and how MLC is taking its baby steps in the USA.
Haider Ali's journey from a small Pakistani village to the UAE national cricket team is a testament to his unwavering resilience. Overcoming obstacles like working as a waiter, selling fruits during the pandemic, and surviving a near-fatal accident, he persevered to chase his cricketing dream.
'Jitesh Sharma was spectacular': Mayank Agarwal after RCB's win vs LSG
Zaheer Khan: 'Rishabh Pant's calibre and ability never in doubt'
IPL 2025: What went wrong for Lucknow Super Giants?
Royal Challengers Bangalore clinched a Qualifier 1 spot in IPL 2025, triumphing over Lucknow Super Giants by six wickets. Chasing a challenging 227-3, RCB's Jitesh Sharma's explosive 85 off 33 balls and key contributions from Virat Kohli and Mayank Agarwal secured the win.
Lucknow Super Giants skipper Rishabh Pant has been penalised Rs 30 lakh for a slow over rate during their defeat to Royal Challengers Bengaluru. Other playing XI members, including the Impact Player, received a Rs 12 lakh fine. This marks LSG's third over-rate offence this season.
Rishabh Pant, after his IPL stint, aims to recharge before the England Test tour, reflecting on Lucknow Super Giants' injury-hit season despite his brilliant century in the final fixture. Royal Challengers Bengaluru secured a thrilling win, propelled by Jitesh Sharma's explosive innings and Mayank Agarwal's contribution.
Jitesh Sharma's explosive, unbeaten 85 propelled Royal Challengers Bengaluru to a record-breaking chase against Lucknow Super Giants. Overcoming cramps and a couple of close calls, Jitesh credited his mentor Dinesh Karthik's advice for his match-winning knock. Bengaluru's victory secured their flawless away record and paved their path to a top-two finish.
Royal Challengers Bengaluru created IPL history by winning all seven away matches in the 2025 season, propelled by Jitesh Sharma's unbeaten 85, securing a six-wicket victory against Lucknow Super Giants. RCB chased down a formidable 228, marking their highest successful chase and finishing second in the points table. This win sets up a Qualifier 1 clash with Punjab Kings.