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Kolkata Erupts as Football Icon Lionel Messi Touches Down to Kick Off GOAT India Tour
Afreen from Kolkata Kolkata was swept up in football fever as global icon Lionel Messi touched down in the city in the early hours today, marking the start of his highly anticipated GOAT India Tour. Despite the December cold, thousands of fans gathered at the airport, determined to catch a glimpse of the Argentine maestro. []
Uthappa flags lack of role clarity in Indias batting during big chase
India suffered a 51-run loss in the second T20I against South Africa after folding for 162 in 19.1 overs while chasing a target of 214 at Mullanpur on December 11
Lionel Messi India tour 2025: Full itinerary, venues and key events
Football legend Lionel Messi's arrival in India for the GOAT India Tour 2025 has ignited unprecedented fan fervor. Thousands greeted him, showcasing immense popularity. The tour includes fan engagements, football events, and high-profile meetings across Kolkata, Hyderabad, Mumbai, and Delhi, culminating in a meeting with Prime Minister Narendra Modi.
Lionel Messi mania takes over as thousands turn out to welcome Argentine icon
Lionel Messi's 'GOAT India Tour 2025' kicked off in Kolkata with thousands braving the cold for a midnight welcome. Despite tight security, fans experienced 'Messi mania' as the football icon arrived for a whirlwind tour across four cities, meeting dignitaries and participating in events.
Leaders of the T20 ship in choppy waters
India's T20I leadership faces a crisis as captain Suryakumar Yadav and vice-captain Shubman Gill struggle for runs. Their prolonged slumps raise concerns about their place in the playing XI, despite the team's aggressive new style. Management's attempts to address batting depth have led to unconventional tactics, leaving questions about faith in established batters.
Dont judge after 2 matches: Nehra backs under-fire Shubman Gill
Gujarat Titans coach Ashish Nehra has backed captain Shubman Gill amidst a lean patch in T20Is, urging against judging him by recent statistics. Nehra also defended all-rounder Washington Sundar, highlighting his valuable all-round skills and potential for improvement despite recent struggles. Both players are crucial to the franchise's plans.
'I don't pay attention': Vaibhav Suryavanshi on surpassing Virat Kohli
India's 14-year-old cricket sensation, Vaibhav Suryavanshi, has become the nation's most searched personality on Google, even surpassing Virat Kohli. His remarkable 171 off 95 balls in the U19 Asia Cup propelled him to global fame. Despite the immense attention, Suryavanshi remains grounded, focusing solely on his game and taking the newfound popularity in stride.
Warner open to taking on middle-order role for Thunder
Asked about an opening partnership with Sam Konstas, Warner revealed tactical discussions are taking place
'Nothing ruled in or out': Winds of change blowing through BBL
The new BBL season comes amid extensive talks about the future of the competition and what potential privatisation could look like
Watch: Ahead of Messi meetup, Shah Rukh Khan arrives in Kolkata
Watch: Ahead of Messi meetup, Shah Rukh Khan arrives in Kolkata
'Save Indian football': Young fan spotted with placard as Messi arrives in India
'Save Indian football': Young fan spotted with placard as Messi arrives in India
FIFA World Cup 2026: High demand for tickets despite fans slamming prices
Fans from more than 200 countries and territories applied via FIFA.com for seats at the first 48-team World Cup
Out of Indias T20 plans, Siraj reminds selectors with 3-wicket burst
Mohammed Siraj showcased exceptional bowling prowess in the Syed Mushtaq Ali Trophy, claiming three crucial wickets against a formidable Mumbai lineup. Despite the presence of several Indian stars, Mumbai faltered, setting a modest target. Hyderabad comfortably chased it down, securing a dominant nine-wicket victory, with Siraj earning the Player of the Match award for his stellar performance.
John Cena's final WWE match at Saturday Night's main event: All you need to know
John Cena's final WWE match at Saturday Night's main event: All you need to know
Lionel Messi lands in Kolkata to huge fan turnout as GOAT India tour kicks off
Lionel Messi lands in Kolkata to huge fan turnout as GOAT India tour kicks off
Formula 4 Championship: Three-way battle for top honours
Fifteen-year-old Kenyan racer Shane Chandaria (Chennai Turbo Riders) arrives in Chennai as the points leader with 158.
Sanju Samson vs Shubman Gill: Decoding their stats in T20Is
India are most likely to make changes in their playing XI for the third T20I against South Africa.
Record-breaking Suryavanshi powers India to big 234-run win over UAE in U19 Asia Cup opener
Vaibhav unleashed a stunning display of batting, hitting 14 sixes the most by any batter in a single innings in the U19 level en-route to his breathtaking innings
IND vs SA: Suryakumar, Gills poor run a cause of concern for India
Gills performance, after replacing Sanju Samson as the Men in Blues T20I opener, has been a let-down.
I know how badly I want to win an Olympic medal that hunger is in me: Nikhat Zareen
The richly decorated boxer has her eyes set on the ultimate prize. In this conversation after claiming gold in the World Boxing Cup Finals, the two-time World champion talks about the relief of ending a medal drought, what her near- and long-term plans are, how she bounces back so often, and why she doesnt discuss her boxing life with her family
Future tense: can Indian badminton regain its glory days?
Less than a decade ago, the country had an abundance of superstars. But the next generation has struggled to produce the results fans had grown accustomed to. The talent is there, so what is stopping Indias young shuttlers from crossing the line that separates the good from the great?
This could be the worst team the Premier League has ever seen
Wolverhampton Wanderers are facing a historic low in the Premier League, currently winless and rooted to the bottom of the table. With relegation looming, coach Rob Edwards is tasked with damage limitation as the club grapples with fan protests and a significant talent drain. The team's struggles are highlighted by a series of losses and a concerning points tally.
Toss vital in evening games, says Shardul Thakur
Incorrect: JioStar clarifies stance on ICC media rights after exit rumours
JioStar has confirmed its commitment to its USD 3-billion deal with the International Cricket Council, refuting reports of withdrawal. The media company stated that preparations for upcoming ICC events, including the T20 World Cup, are proceeding as scheduled. Both JioStar and the ICC emphasized their ongoing partnership and the agreement remaining fully in force.
Complaint filed against Indias youngest FIDE-Rated chess player
A complaint has been filed with FIDE against Sarwagya Singh Kushwaha, the youngest FIDE-rated chess player. The complaint alleges unfair means were used to secure his rating. His father and coach dismiss the claims as factional politics. Kushwaha secured victories against higher-ranked players in recent tournaments. Concerns are raised about opponents being from the same academy and tournament irregularities.
SMAT: TanmayandAmanshine as Hyderabad shocks Mumbai
Pragg makes honest admission about new Total Chess World C'ship Tour
Indian Grandmaster R Praggnanandhaa views the upcoming Chess World Championship Tour as an opportunity for players, not a threat to the traditional World Championship. He believes the World Championship remains the ultimate priority, especially with the tour winner qualifying for the Candidates. Praggnanandhaa also highlighted the growing excitement and interest in chess across India.
Why the cricket maidaans of Mumbai are dying | Bombay Sport Exchange with Nadim Memon
Why the cricket maidaans of Mumbai are dying | Bombay Sport Exchange with Nadim Memon
Will Hikaru come to India for GCL season 3? Team shares update
The Global Chess League's third season kicks off in Mumbai with the American Gambits featuring Hikaru Nakamura as their Icon player. The team, boasting a strong lineup including World Rapid Champion Volodar Murzin, faces PBG Alaskan Knights in their opening match, a highly anticipated duel against World Champion Gukesh D.
SQUASH WORLD CUP | India blanks South Africa, to meet Egypt in semis
Lionel Messis tour of India: The full itinerary
Messi is expected to land in Kolkata around 1.30 a.m. on December 13, before embarking on a packed three-day itinerary; this is his second visit to India, after taking part in Argentinas 1-0 win against Venezuela in a friendly match in Kolkata in 2011.
National wrestling | Gold for Antim, Manisha and Nisha
'Main Bihar se hoon': Sooryavanshi hits back at UAE sledging
Vaibhav Sooryavanshi smashed an incredible 171 off 95 balls, including fourteen sixes, setting a new U-19 world record in India's 433/6 against UAE. The 14-year-old's dominant innings, marked by a witty exchange with the wicketkeeper, propelled India to a commanding position. His performance also secured a tournament record for most sixes in a single U-19 Asia Cup innings.
IPL Auction: LSG face key gaps to fix in bid to return as title contenders
As LSG head into the IPL 2026 Auction with Rs 22.95 crore purse, they are entering a tricky stage of building their squad. They have released two key players at the same time. David Millers exit has left a clear gap in the finishing role, while letting go of Ravi Bishnoi has created a big hole in their spin attack.
PM Modi, Gill, fashion show: Messi's India tour has everything but football
Lionel Messi is set to visit India for the 'GOAT India Tour 2025', his first trip since 2011, but this time without any competitive matches. The tour focuses on promotional events and appearances across Kolkata, Hyderabad, Mumbai, and New Delhi, including meetings with dignitaries and a charity fashion show.
Hyderabad all set to host Messi
Minhas, Hussain tons set up Pakistan U-19s' massive win over Malaysia
Malaysia's chase never took flight, as they were bowled out for 48 inside 20 overs
Gill's poor form under scrutiny; ex-cricketer asks Samson to 'be ready'
Former India cricketer Irfan Pathan believes Shubman Gill is under immense pressure due to his recent T20I struggles, with the T20 World Cup approaching. Pathan emphasized that Gill must score runs to secure his place, especially with Sanju Samson waiting in the wings. Gill's form is crucial for the team's powerplay starts and his leadership role.
Ashish Nehra interview: Gujarat Titans head coach backs out of form Shubman Gill
Ashish Nehra interview: Gujarat Titans head coach backs out of form Shubman Gill
Watch: Sooryavanshi turns eagle, grabs sharp catch after 171-run knock
Vaibhav Sooryavanshi starred with a record-shattering 171 and a spectacular diving catch as India U19 began their Asia Cup campaign with an overwhelming 234-run victory over UAE. Sooryavanshi's explosive batting, supported by strong partnerships, propelled India to a massive 433/6. The UAE chase faltered early, with only skipper Uddish Suri offering significant resistance.
National chess: Mary snaps Nandhidhaas unbeaten run, moves into joint lead
Baychimo, El Greco and Market King show out
Power Of Beauty and Sicyon please
Hampshire announce signings of Michael Neser and Jake Lehmann
Australia allrounder Neser joins for County Championship stint, while Lehmann agrees two-year deal as local player
James Anderson named as Lancashire's Championship captain
Former England seamer extends commitment to long-term club as he takes over four-day reins
IPL 2026 auction: 5 Indian batters in focus
The IPL 2026 mini-auction is set for Abu Dhabi on December 16. 359 players are available as franchises rebuild their squads. Teams are targeting batters to strengthen their lineups. Key Indian batters like Sarfaraz Khan, Rahul Tripathi, Prithvi Shaw, Abhinav Manohar, and Venkatesh Iyer are expected to attract significant interest and high bids. The auction promises intense bidding wars.
Fire Never Left: Vinesh Phogat Comes Out Of Retirement, Targets LA Olympics
New Delhi, Dec 12: Star Indian wrestler Vinesh Phogat on Friday announced that she would be coming out of retirement to take another shot at an elusive Olympic medal at the 2028 Los Angeles Games as the the fire never left her and was merely buried under exhaustion and noise. The 31-year-old had walked away from the sport after the heartbreak of the Paris Games last year, where she was dramatically disqualified for being 100 grams over the permissible weight [] The post Fire Never Left: Vinesh Phogat Comes Out Of Retirement, Targets LA Olympics appeared first on Daily Excelsior .
Vaibhav Suryavanshi slams 95-ball 171 in Under-19 Asia Cup opener
Vaibhav Suryavanshi's innings against UAE saw him fall just six runs short of the India record for highest score in a youth one-day match, held by Ambati Rayudu
Keshav Maharaj to lead Pretoria Capitals at SA20
Pretoria Capitals have a revamped squad and support staff for the upcoming SA20 season
IPL Auction 2026 Kolkata Knight Riders (KKR) top players KKR is expected to targetKolkata Knight Riders enters the IPL 2026 auction with the biggest purse. After a poor 2025 season, the team released several key players. They aim to rebuild their squad by acquiring new talent. KKR needs to strengthen its wicket-keeping and pace bowling departments. The auction will be crucial for their comeback.
Messi's G.O.A.T. India Tour set to dazzle, but without the football magic of 2011
The eight-time Ballon d'Or winner is not scheduled to play serious football on the 'G.O.A.T. India Tour 2025'. It is a fully promotional, and commercially-curated event which will begin on Saturday here and wind up on Monday in New Delhi.
IPL 2026 Auction: 5 Indian bowlers in focus as top pacers, spinners set to spark bidding battles
2026 IPL Auction: Top 5 Indian bowlers in focus. The IPL 2026 auction is heating up with a focus on five Indian bowlers. Teams with large purses are expected to aggressively bid on specialists like Ravi Bishnoi and Akash Deep, filling crucial gaps in pace and spin departments. This shift is driven by new overseas player fee caps, highlighting the value of domestic talent.
Vaibhav Suryavanshi, a 14-year-old Indian opener, has impressed in the U-19 Asia Cup. He scored a rapid century against the UAE. Suryavanshi and captain Ayush Mhatre are in strong form. Their performance makes India a favorite for the title. The team faces Pakistan next in a highly anticipated match.
Rest or runs? Hurricanes and Scorchers take contrasting roads to WBBL final
The hosts were the standout side in the regular season but have not played a full game since December 1
Don't want Shubman Gill to justify his place, want him to play like he does in IPL: ten Doeschate
Indian assistant coach Ryan ten Doeschate urged Shubman Gill to play freely in T20s, like he does in the IPL, as the batsman has been too tight trying to justify his place. The team management also backed captain Suryakumar Yadav, despite his lean run, believing in his class and ability to attack.
Quinton de Kock is back playing for South Africa with a fresh perspective. He feels fitter and more motivated than ever. The break from the game helped him rediscover his passion for winning. De Kock is now focused on white-ball cricket and aims to play for as long as possible.
Roston Chase: 'We try to hold everyone accountable for their actions'
West Indies captain Roston Chase wants to leave New Zealand with their first Test win in the country in 30 years
Satterthwaite, Peterson and Tsukigawa named NZ regional female pathway leads
Amy Satterthwaite is the most experienced of the trio, having represented NZ in 145 ODIs and 111 T20Is, leading the side in 15 of those games
Warner: Head at No. 5 'a worse result' for England
The Australia selectors face a big call over whether to recall Usman Khawaja and, if so, where to bat him
'Saw some good signs': India coach backs out-of-form Gill & Suryakumar
India's assistant coach Ryan ten Doeschate expresses unwavering confidence in Shubman Gill and Suryakumar Yadav, despite their recent batting struggles. He believes the duo's class and past performances, particularly Gill's IPL record, assure their return to form ahead of the T20 World Cup. Ten Doeschate emphasised the team's absolute faith in their ability to deliver when it matters most.
U19 Asia Cup: India lose Ayush Mhatre early after UAE opt to bowl in Dubai
Duffy five-for triggers West Indies slide to give New Zealand first win of WTC cycle
Visitors fold for 128 in their second innings to set hosts a straightforward chase, wrapped up by Conway and Williamson swiftly
T20 World Cup: Lowest-ever ticket pricing for any India-Pakistan ICC tie
Exciting news for cricket fans. Ticket prices for the 2026 Men's T20 World Cup clash between India and Pakistan are set to be very affordable. Entry-level tickets for this highly anticipated match will start as low as Rs 438. The International Cricket Council aims to make the tournament accessible to more fans.
'We learn we try' - Suryakumar scrambles for answers after heavy defeat
India's T20 captain Suryakumar Yadav acknowledged a far from good enough performance after a significant defeat to South Africa. He highlighted early wickets and a muddled batting strategy, admitting the team's over-reliance on Abhishek Sharma. Despite acknowledging bowling struggles with dew, Yadav stressed the team's commitment to learning and improving for future matches.
Billie Jean King slams Sabalenka vs Kyrgios Battle of sexes as stars stand firm
Billie Jean King slams Sabalenka vs Kyrgios Battle of sexes as stars stand firm
Pep Guardiola praises Real Madrid's Rodrygo amid rising Manchester City transfer buzz
Pep Guardiola praises Real Madrid's Rodrygo amid rising Manchester City transfer buzz
BBL preview: Can powerful Hobart Hurricanes go back-to-back?
A team-by-team guide ahead of the new BBL season which will see strong England and Pakistan representation
U19 Men's Asia Cup 2025: Squads, schedule and all you need to know
U19 Men's Asia Cup 2025: Squads, schedule and all you need to know
Messi's visit brings spotlight, but Indian football has nothing to show for
Messi's visit brings spotlight, but Indian football has nothing to show for
U-19 Asia Cup: Vaibhav & handshake in focus as India set to take on Pak
India's U-19 Asia Cup campaign faces scrutiny over whether players will shake hands with Pakistan, a gesture previously omitted in senior tournaments. The BCCI's stance on this sporting courtesy at the junior level remains a key point of attention, with the ICC preferring to keep politics separate from youth cricket.
2nd T20I defeat: 'Gill & SKY's form?' - Gambhir and co. asked to 'answer'
India suffered a 51-run defeat to South Africa in the second T20I, raising concerns over Shubman Gill and Suryakumar Yadav's form. The team's bowling discipline also faltered, with numerous full tosses and expensive overs contributing to South Africa's 213/4. India's chase collapsed early, falling short at 162 despite Tilak Varma's 62.
India proves too good for Brazil, meets South Africa in quarters
The home side next takes on South Africa, which holds top seed Hong Kong, in the quarterfinals
Indian cricketer Smriti Mandhana, after ending her relationship with composer Palash Muchhal, made her first public appearance since the breakup. She said cricket remains her greatest love and the Indian jersey her biggest motivation, helping her set aside personal struggles and stay focused on her life and career.
Time away from game brought back my hunger: de Kock
India vs South Africa 2nd T20I | De Kock does the star turn as Proteas draw level
The opener smashes 90 off just 46 balls; the Indian bowlers barring Varun go for plenty; extras add to the home teams woes; Tilak wages a lone battle for the Men in Blue in a daunting chase
Syed Mushtaq Ali Trophy | Stage set for Super League as teams brace for challenge sans star players
Hardik the three-in-one cricketer who delivers more often than not
His challenge over the next three months will be to steer clear of the spectre of injuries that has been relentlessly chasing him; the all-rounder will no longer don the white flannels, a reality he has come to terms with, but the 32-year-old remains crucial to Indias white-ball ecosystem
IOC urges bodies to let Russian youth teams compete with flag, anthem
The IOC has taken a bold step, urging sports organizations to let young athletes from Russia and Belarus compete while representing their national identities. This decision emphasizes athletes' inherent right to participate in sports and seeks to mitigate their predicament of sporting exclusion.
South Africa dominated India in a T20 International, with Quinton de Kock's explosive 90 off 46 balls leading the charge. Despite De Kock's bizarre run-out, late hitting from Donavan Ferreira and David Miller propelled South Africa to a commanding 213/4. India struggled to chase the total, with their bowlers conceding heavily.
GM Bibisara Assaubayeva Exclusive: Sindarovs World Cup win, Candidates ambitions, and more #chess
GM Bibisara Assaubayeva Exclusive: Sindarovs World Cup win, Candidates ambitions, and more #chess
SMAT KOs: Its Jaiswal vs Siraj as Mumbai take on Hyderabad
A thrilling Syed Mushtaq Ali T20 Trophy Super Four clash awaits as Yashasvi Jaiswal's Mumbai faces Mohammed Siraj's Hyderabad. Jaiswal, fresh off an ODI century, joins a Mumbai side that topped its group. Siraj, returning to T20s, aims to prove his mettle for Hyderabad, who also dominated their league. This encounter promises fireworks.
Gambhir's No.3 gamble fails; Axar Patel departs cheaply in big chase
India's gamble of sending Axar Patel at number three backfired in the second T20I against South Africa. Patel struggled to find form, scoring 21 off 21 balls as wickets tumbled. South Africa posted a formidable 213/4, powered by Quinton de Kock's explosive 90. Varun Chakaravarthy was India's standout bowler with two wickets.
Aronian beats Carlsen to clinch Freestyle Grand Slam Tour Final title
Levon Aronian clinched the 2025 Freestyle Chess Grand Slam title in Grootbos. He defeated Magnus Carlsen in the Grand Final. Aronian secured the win with a 1.5-0.5 score. He earned $200,000. Magnus Carlsen had already won the overall Grand Slam Tour. Vincent Keymer secured third place. Fabiano Caruana finished fifth. Hans Niemann took seventh place.
PGTI launches own professional league, to be held in February 2026
Hyderabad to host womens hockey World Cup qualifier
'Why not Sanju Samson?' - memes break internet as Gill flops again
Shubman Gill's T20I struggles persisted with a golden duck against South Africa, drawing criticism. Meanwhile, Quinton de Kock's explosive 90 powered the visitors to a formidable 213/4. India's bowlers, including Arshdeep Singh and Jasprit Bumrah, faced a tough outing, conceding heavily in the death overs, leaving the hosts with a challenging chase.
National wrestling championships to host a galaxy of stars
Harmanpreet Kaur, Yuvraj Singh stands inaugurated at New Chandigarh Stadium
The stands were inaugurated before the start of the second men's T20I between India and South Africa at the venue
Clubs push for AIFF constitutions amendment before entering talks to co-host ISL
