The Times of India

Iran's national football team has firmly stated that no entity can prevent their participation in the 2026 FIFA World Cup, directly countering US President Donald Trump's safety concerns. The team emphasized that FIFA governs the tournament and their qualification was earned through merit, questioning the host's ability to ensure security if they cannot.

Two years ago, Gautam Gambhir was appointed Team India's coach after he mentored the Kolkata Knight Riders (KKR) to the Indian Premier League (IPL) title. With the next T20 extravaganza cycle underway, IPL 2026 should be the audition for India's next T20I captain. The selectors must keep their eyes open because choosing the right man for the captaincy will not be easy.

The BCCI has no say in Sunrisers signing Pakistan spinner Abrar Ahmed for The Hundred. This is an overseas league. The franchise faces social media criticism. Owner Kavya Maran is targeted. The official X account of Sunrisers Leeds was reportedly suspended. The BCCI cannot intervene in this matter. The franchise has not issued a statement.

Chennai Super Kings aim for a record sixth IPL title in 2026, bolstered by Sanju Samson's arrival. Experts believe Samson's aggressive batting and presence will ease pressure on captain Ruturaj Gaikwad and solve CSK's opening woes. The team also appears to be building for the future with a mix of youth and experience.

Luke Ronchi and Jacob Oram have been granted leave by New Zealand Cricket to coach Islamabad United in the 2026 Pakistan Super League. Ronchi will be head coach while Oram serves as assistant. They will miss New Zealands series against South Africa national cricket team and the Bangladesh tour, with NZC saying the experience will benefit the national setup.

Southern Braves' head coach Hemang Badani emphasised sticking to their auction plan, prioritising team balance over external narratives as debate rages over Pakistan players' involvement in The Hundred. While Pakistani players were considered, the franchise secured key overseas and local talent like Adil Rashid and Nikhil Chaudhary, focusing on acquiring the best available skill sets for their squad.

Former India all-rounder Irfan Pathan believes this IPL season could be MS Dhoni's last for Chennai Super Kings. Pathan emphasized Dhoni's crucial role in team unity and grooming future leaders, even if his playing time is limited. He suggested CSK aims for a title win to give the legend a fitting farewell.

Indian cricketer Kuldeep Yadav will marry his longtime partner Vanshika Chadha on March 14 in Mussoorie. The couple, childhood friends from Kanpur, saw their friendship grow into a lifelong relationship. Vanshika works at the Life Insurance Corporation of India and maintains a private life away from the spotlight. Wedding festivities begin March 13, with cricket stars like Virat Kohli expected to attend.

Nitish Rana's return to Delhi Capitals for IPL 2026 was sealed after a swift three-second endorsement from Rishabh Pant. Rana, traded from Rajasthan Royals, felt Pant's deep understanding of the franchise and their personal connection made him the ideal confidant. Pant's immediate affirmation convinced Rana, making the move a clear 'yes'.

Yuzvendra Chahal arrived in Dehradun for Kuldeep Yadav's wedding in Mussoorie, expressing excitement for the festivities. The spinner is set to tie the knot with fiance Vanshika on March 14 at the Welcomhotel The Savoy Mussoorie. The event is anticipated to be a private yet star-studded affair with several prominent cricketers expected to attend.

Dinesh Karthik said London Spirit went all out for James Coles at The Hundred auction because of his rare all-round skill set. The 21-year-old was signed for 390,000 after a bidding war between five teams, with Karthik backing the Sussex youngster to handle the price tag and emerge as a future prospect for England.

Elite athletes like Michael Phelps and PV Sindhu openly discuss mental health challenges, a topic previously taboo. Indian badminton player Orijit Chaliha shares his burnout experience and the importance of taking breaks and accepting criticism for growth. India's sports system is improving mental health support, with psychologists now accompanying players.

The Hundred 2026 auction saw significant spending, with James Coles topping the charts at Rs 4.8 crore. However, the IPL 2026 auction dwarfed these figures, with Cameron Green fetching a staggering Rs 25.20 crore.

Sunrisers Leeds' acquisition of Pakistani spinner Abrar Ahmed at The Hundred auction sparked controversy in India. Head coach Daniel Vettori clarified the move was a purely cricketing decision after missing out on Adil Rashid. Vettori emphasised that no internal discussions about avoiding Pakistani players occurred, focusing solely on the best available talent for the team's strategy.

Ricky Ponting lauded Will Jacks with a perfect 10, while Indian stars Sanju Samson and Jasprit Bumrah earned 9.5/10. Samson, Player of the Tournament, led India's charge with the bat, and Bumrah was a bowling maestro. India's dominant victory over New Zealand in the final cemented their status as three-time T20 World Cup champions.

Sunrisers faced social media backlash after signing Pakistan's Abrar Ahmed for The Hundred, becoming the first Pakistani player signed by an Indian-owned team in the competition. The move sparked criticism from Indian fans, with the team's official X account later being suspended.

Sara Tendulkar celebrated her brother Arjun's recent wedding to Saaniya Chandhok with a touching Instagram post. She shared intimate photos from the Mumbai ceremony, expressing her joy at gaining a sister and wishing the newlyweds a lifetime of happiness and blessings. The star-studded event saw attendance from cricket legends, Bollywood stars, and business leaders.

At least three entities GMR Sports, FanCode and Capri Sports have expressed interest in the commercial rights tender for the All India Football Federation's (AIFF) men's and women's club competitions. The trio are learnt to have paid the required Rs 2.5 lakh to access the tender documents. The final date for bid submissions is March 19.

Returning after two years, Venkatapathy Raju witnessed a transformed Indian team. VVS Laxman's belief in a comeback against Australia, coupled with his and Rahul Dravid's remarkable partnership, shifted the game's momentum. Sachin Tendulkar's crucial spell on Day 5 and Laxman's extraordinary batting, even against Shane Warne, sealed a historic victory that instilled immense belief in Indian cricket.

VVS Laxman recounts his iconic 281 at Eden Gardens, a knock that defied a severe back spasm and halted Australia's winning streak. He details how net sessions with quality spinners prepared him, the crucial role of physio Andrew Leipus, and the strategic partnership with Rahul Dravid. This epic innings, born from resilience and belief, revitalised Indian cricket.

As Team India gears up for the 2027 ODI World Cup, questions arise about incorporating T20 stars like Sanju Samson and Ishan Kishan into the ODI setup. Despite recent ODI series losses, their T20 heroics and potential ODI contributions are being debated, with selectors weighing form against established openers and other talented keepers.

President Trump expressed that it may not be appropriate for Iran's national football team to attend the FIFA World Cup due to safety concerns, despite previously assuring FIFA's president of their welcome. The White House has not clarified the specific safety threats Trump alluded to.

The Hundred auction saw Mustafizur Rahman snapped up by Birmingham Phoenix for 100,000. Two Pakistan spinners, Abrar Ahmed (190,000 to Sunrisers Leeds) and Usman Tariq (140,000 to Birmingham Phoenix), also found buyers. James Coles secured the highest bid of 390,000. The tournament runs from July 21 to August 16.

Michael Vaughan has criticized South Africa's tactical decision to defeat the West Indies in the T20 World Cup, suggesting it inadvertently aided India's progression. Vaughan argued that eliminating strong teams early is crucial for World Cup success. South Africa's win allowed India to advance, ultimately leading to South Africa's semi-final exit against New Zealand.

Former chief selector Sandeep Patil revealed Gautam Gambhir hasn't spoken to him since being dropped from the Indian team in 2013. Despite their past closeness and numerous shared events, Gambhir maintains his distance, a decision Patil understands given his own experience of being dropped. Patil emphasized that personal relationships don't influence tough selection calls.

Pakistan spinner Abrar Ahmed was signed by Sunrisers Leeds for 190,000 at the Hundred Auction 2026, sparking backlash online due to the franchises IPL links. Usman Tariq also secured a deal with Birmingham Phoenix. Meanwhile, Haris Rauf went unsold and Shaheen Afridi withdrew. The ECB reiterated selections are based on performance, availability, and the needs of each team. The tournament begins July 21.

India dominated the World Para Athletics Grand Prix, led by Paralympic champion Sumit Antil, who won javelin gold with a 69.25m throw, ahead of compatriots Pushpendra Singh and Poonam Ram. Antil said he exceeded expectations and now targets 75m at the Asian Games. Indian athletes also shone across multiple track and field events, often sweeping the podium.

Rajasthan Royals have shifted their IPL 2026 preparations. The full squad camp now begins on March 17 at the Sawai Man Singh Stadium. Head coach Kumar Sangakkara will oversee team bonding and intensive training. This marks the first gathering of all players, including new recruits. The team is expected to depart for Guwahati on March 26 for their season opener.

Pakistan spinner Abrar Ahmed was signed by SunRisers Leeds for 190,000 at the Hundred Auction 2026, ending speculation that IPL-linked teams would avoid Pakistani players. Usman Tariq was earlier picked by Birmingham Phoenix. Meanwhile, Haris Rauf, Shadab Khan, and Saim Ayub went unsold, while Shaheen Afridi withdrew before the auction due to scheduling clashes.

Axar Patel starred with exceptional fielding in Indias T20 World Cup 2026 semi-final win over England, taking three brilliant catches, including a relay catch with Shivam Dube. Coaches praised his intensity and work ethic, highlighting his transformation through improved fitness and training since 2018. Once criticized for poor fitness habits, Axar has evolved into one of Indias safest fielders.

Rishabh Pant, aiming to revive his white-ball career, underwent training sessions with 2011 World Cup hero Yuvraj Singh in Mumbai. This comes after an ordinary IPL 2025 season where Pant scored 269 runs, leading to Lucknow Super Giants finishing seventh. Pant hopes Yuvraj's guidance will help him turn around his fortunes ahead of IPL 2026.

Pakistan pacer Salman Mirza sent a legal notice to a news outlet and journalist over reports alleging he misbehaved with a woman during the T20 World Cup 2026 in Sri Lanka. Calling the claims false, malicious, and highly defamatory, Mirza denied wrongdoing. The PCB also dismissed the reports, demanding a public apology and warning of action.

MS Dhoni's batting position at CSK has sparked debate, with many believing he should bat higher to maximize his game-changing potential. Despite fitness concerns, his flashes of brilliance highlight his finishing ability. CSK CEO Kasi Viswanathan expressed confidence in Dhoni playing regularly, with the coaching staff to determine his exact role.

Pakistan had a tough time at the 2026 Hundred auction. Haris Rauf went unsold, while ODI captain Shaheen Shah Afridi withdrew before bidding began. The ECB confirmed Quinton de Kock, Sunil Narine, AM Ghazanfar and Peter Siddle also pulled out due to schedule clashes. Earlier, no Pakistani women players were picked either, reducing Pakistans presence in the tournament.

In the past two editions of the T20 World Cups, Nepal's fans have flooded the stands, be it in Texas or in Mumbai. The cricketers have shown the spunk, stomach for a fight, and pushed teams like South Africa and England to the brink. The Rohit Paudel-led team registered their first World Cup win in their third appearance, when they defeated Scotland at Wankhede. Now they must aim higher, but to achieve the summit of Mount Everest, they will need help.

Dhakshineswar Suresh has been added to the Target Asian Games Group (TAGG) after starring in Indias Davis Cup Qualifiers win over the Netherlands, where he won two singles and the decisive doubles with Yuki Bhambri. The Mission Olympic Cell also approved funding for Bhambri and Sumit Nagal ahead of the 2026 Asian Games and Davis Cup ties.

Michael Vaughan hailed Jasprit Bumrah as the finest bowler he's ever witnessed after his T20 World Cup final heroics. Vaughan compared Bumrah's impact to football legends Messi and Ronaldo, stating his presence guarantees victory. Fellow experts agreed, though Alastair Cook questioned his iconic Test spells, a point Vaughan countered with Bumrah's impressive overseas Test records.

EXCLUSIVE: Rahul Dravid on iconic Eden Gardens win against Australia in 2001

The Times of India Sports Awards (TOISA) will be held on March 21, 2026, in Lucknow, honouring Indias top athletes for performances in 2025 across 45+ categories, judged by a jury of sporting legends. Squash stars Abhay Singh, Velavan Senthilkumar, Anahat Singh, and Joshna Chinappa headlined the year with World Cup, Asian titles, and major PSA victories, highlighting Indias growing dominance in squash.

The eighth Times of India Sports Awards (TOISA) will be held on March 21, 2026, in Lucknow, honouring Indias top athletes for performances in 2025 across 45+ categories. Judged by legends like Abhinav Bindra and Mithali Raj, the awards celebrate major team achievements, including cricket world titles, hockey and kabaddi triumphs, shooting medals, and historic wins in squash, blind cricket, and ice hockey.

Cricket legend Sachin Tendulkar faced a tough phase in 2012. Poor form and team defeats led to discussions about his future. The BCCI selection committee chairman met with Tendulkar. This led to Tendulkar's retirement from ODIs and later Tests. He retired from international cricket after a long career, leaving behind numerous records.

The ICC has charged two team officials and a player with multiple anti-corruption rule breaches linked to the 2023/24 Bim10 Tournament. Team owner Chitranjan Rathod, official Trevon Griffith, and cricketer Javon Searles face charges for attempting to fix matches and obstructing investigations. All three are provisionally suspended from cricket activities.

Suryakumar Yadav may have led India to T20 World Cup glory, but his leadership journey still draws heavily from Rohit Sharmas blueprint. From aggressive cricket to backing players, Rohit's influence remains clear. Now, Surya faces the same defining choice his predecessor once made: step aside at the right time and secure a legacy not just as a champion, but as a visionary leader.

South African and West Indies cricket contingents have finally left India after days of travel chaos. Airspace closures in West Asia disrupted flights, stranding players in Kolkata post-T20 World Cup. The ICC confirmed the safe departure of the remaining 29 South Africans and 16 West Indians, concluding a complex logistical operation amidst challenging global travel conditions.

India's Lakshya Sen is considered a strong medal contender for the 2028 Los Angeles Olympics after his Paris 2024 debut and a strong showing at the 2026 All England Championships. Former player Trupti Murgunde believes Sen is well-positioned but stresses the importance of sustained form, fitness, and wise tournament choices over the next two years.

India captain Suryakumar Yadav shared that Axar Patel was upset after being excluded from the playing XI during India's successful T20 World Cup campaign. Yadav apologised, calling it a team decision. The loss to South Africa became a turning point, prompting the team to treat all subsequent matches as knockouts. India then won their remaining games to secure the trophy.

India pace spearhead Jasprit Bumrah expressed immense joy in delivering under pressure, a mindset that fueled India's historic 2026 T20 World Cup triumph. His match-winning spell in the final, coupled with family presence and a sense of redemption at the Ahmedabad venue, made the victory deeply emotional and fulfilling for the spearhead.

Jack Draper achieved a career-defining victory by defeating former champion Novak Djokovic in a thrilling three-set match to advance to the Indian Wells Masters quarter-finals. Draper's determination and problem-solving skills were key to his upset win, especially after a lengthy layoff due to injury. He will now face Daniil Medvedev in the next round.

India achieved a historic feat by becoming the first team to defend their T20 World Cup title, winning on home soil. Led by Suryakumar Yadav and coached by Gautam Gambhir, the team showcased exceptional performances, with Jasprit Bumrah and Sanju Samson being standout players. The report card highlights individual contributions across the victorious campaign.