Bangladeshs 2026 cricket plans unveiled amid Mustafizur-KKR row
Bangladesh will host a packed international cricket calendar in 2026. The national team will play four Tests, twelve One-Day Internationals, and nine Twenty20 matches. This includes series against India, Pakistan, Australia, and New Zealand. The schedule begins in March and continues through September. This busy period follows the T20 World Cup.
Bangladesh to host Australia, India during packed home season
Pakistan, New Zealand and West Indies will also visit for various white- and red-ball series
Russians won't represent their country at Winter Olympics even if Ukraine war ends, IOC chief says
Russian athletes will compete as individuals without national symbols at the Milano Cortina Winter Olympics, even if a peace deal is reached with Ukraine. The International Olympic Committee confirmed this decision, maintaining its ban on Russia and Belarus following the invasion. This approach is expected to guide future Olympic hostings.
'What a journey': Cummins, Dhawan salute Khawaja as Australia batter retires
Australian cricketer Usman Khawaja will retire from international cricket after the final Ashes Test. The batsman announced his decision at his home ground, the Sydney Cricket Ground. Khawaja has had a distinguished 15-year career. He will continue playing domestic cricket. Tributes have poured in from teammates and former players.
Selection preview: Shreyas racing against time for NZ ODIs; Will Shami get India recall?
Indias selectors face key decisions ahead of the New Zealand ODI series, with Shreyas Iyer racing to regain fitness, uncertainty surrounding Rishabh Pants spot, and Mohammed Shami pushing for a comeback. With workload management and long-term planning in mind, the squad selection could shape Indias white-ball roadmap ahead of the T20 World Cup.
'Keep calm and a clear mind' - Gleeson the hero in SA20's first Super Over finish
I just wanted to try and keep them guessing and have the batter thinking about two deliveries instead of just one, Richard Gleeson says after scripting Joburg Super Kings win
Fifth Ashes Test: England call up Shoaib Bashir and Matthew Potts for Sydney Test
England lost the chance to reclaim the Ashes urn after a hat trick of defeats but would be buoyant after prevailing in the frenetic two-day test in Melbourne
WPL 2026: Mumbai Indians unveil Women's Premier League 2026 jersey
Mumbai Indians unveiled their WPL 2026 jersey, inspired by the city's vibrant energy and the Wicket Pulse theme. The design incorporates blue for constant motion, gold for confidence, and coral for warmth, reflecting Mumbai's spirit. Additionally, former Australian spinner Kristen Beams has joined as spin bowling coach, bringing extensive international and coaching experience to the team.
Sjoerd Marijne returns as India women's hockey chief coach
Sjoerd Marijne returns as chief coach of the Indian women's hockey team, aiming to build on their Tokyo Olympic success. He brings a fresh vision and energy, supported by analytical coach Matias Vila and scientific advisor Wayne Lombard. Marijne's immediate focus is the World Cup Qualifiers in Hyderabad, with a national camp starting soon in Bengaluru.
Usman Khawaja's retirement speech: 'I want the journey for the next Usman Khawaja to be easier'
Usman Khawaja's retirement speech: 'I want the journey for the next Usman Khawaja to be easier'
Hospitalised Australian cricket legend Damien Martyn showing positive signs: Gilchrist
He was diagnosed with meningitis an inflammation of the membranes surrounding the brain and spinal cord
SCG curator 'really happy' with pitch for final Test
After events in Melbourne, all eyes will be on the surface that Adam Lewis creates with the weather set to play a key part
'Completely humiliated': Gillespie on coaching Pakistan reveals chaotic exit
Jason Gillespie felt completely humiliated during his nine-month tenure as Pakistan's Test coach. He resigned after the PCB sacked senior assistant Tim Nielsen without consultation, a decision that blindsided him. Gillespie also revealed feeling marginalized, questioning the board's commitment to his role. A financial dispute over unpaid dues is ongoing.
Dutchman Sjoerd Marijne reappointed as chief coach of Indian womens hockey team
The 51-year-old, who was associated with the Indian womens team from 2017 to 2021, will be supported by Matias Vila as analytical coach
Matthew Potts set to make Ashes appearance at SCG
England have named a 12-man squad, and Shoaib Bashir, who also figures in it, might be the one to miss out in the end
Jason Gillespie has quit as Pakistan's red-ball coach after just nine months. The former Australian star cited a lack of communication from the Pakistan Cricket Board as the main reason. He felt humiliated when his senior assistant coach was sacked without his knowledge. This led to Gillespie refusing to travel for a tour and resigning. Financial disputes also remain.
Cummins lauds Khawajas incredible career after retirement
Usman Khawaja will retire from international cricket after the fifth Ashes Test. The veteran opener confirmed his decision, ending a distinguished career. Khawaja expressed satisfaction at retiring on his own terms. He will continue playing domestic cricket. Pat Cummins and Shikhar Dhawan congratulated Khawaja on his journey.
Palestine flag at cricket match: J&K Police launch probe player, organiser questioned
Jammu and Kashmir Police are investigating a Palestinian flag displayed on a cricketer's helmet during a local match. A player and tournament organiser have been summoned for questioning as authorities examine the circumstances and intent behind the flag's appearance. The privately organised league is not recognised by the state cricket association.
The Indian cricket fan's wishlist for 2026
Santa drops by an Indian cricket fan's room on New Year's Day & asks for a wish for 2026. The fan, of course, has 10 demands...
Ice in the veins: Ferreira, Gleeson star as JSK edge past DSG in Super Over
Joburg Super Kings climbed to the top of the SA20 table after edging Durbans Super Giants in the leagues first-ever Super Over. Donovan Ferreiras last-ball run-out forced the tie, Richard Gleesons composure sealed the Super Over, and JSK chased five with ease to remain unbeaten.
Usman Khawaja: Pakistan-born Australian cricketer announces retirement after fifth Ashes Test
Usman Khawaja said he hoped his long Test career, which will come to an end with his retirement after the fifth Ashes clash, inspires youngsters who are different that playing cricket for Australia is possible
Vijay Hazare Trophy: Khan brothers turn Mumbai campaign into a showreel
Mumbai's Sarfaraz and Musheer Khan are electrifying the domestic cricket scene with their combined skill and swagger. The brothers have been instrumental in Mumbai's four consecutive wins in the Vijay Hazare Trophy, showcasing their individual strengths and mutual understanding on the field. Sarfaraz's explosive batting and Musheer's all-round contributions are keeping the 'Khan show' unmissable.
What to look out for in the Premier League transfer window
AFP Sport looks at five of the clubs likely to be busiest before the window closes on February 2
'Positive signs': Gilchrist shares update as Martyn battles meningitis in hospital
Former Australian cricketer Damien Martyn is showing positive signs of recovery after being hospitalised with meningitis and placed in an induced coma. Ex-teammate Adam Gilchrist shared the encouraging update, noting improvements over the past 24 hours. The cricketing world has rallied with immense support for the elegant batter, who remains in serious condition at Gold Coast University Hospital.
Man City and Liverpool frustrated in 0-0 draws in Premier League to leave Arsenal with 4-point lead
Arsenal has widened its lead at the top of the Premier League. Manchester City and Liverpool both drew their matches. This has given Arsenal a significant advantage at the season's halfway point. Other teams also saw draws on a low-scoring night. City and Liverpool are showing signs of losing their attacking edge.
'So many lessons, memories': Gill looks back at a defining 2025 | Watch
Shubman Gill reflected on a momentous 2025, a year of sharp contrasts. Despite being dropped from the T20I setup, he achieved extraordinary red-ball success in England, piling up 754 runs. Gill also captained India to a memorable 2-2 draw in the Test series and played a key role in their Champions Trophy triumph.
Shubman Gill is 'grateful for so many lessons in 2025', reflects on highs and lows
Indian skipper Shubman Gill looks back at a memorable 2025. He achieved significant success in Test cricket, especially in England, and captained India to a drawn series. Gill also led India to an ICC Champions Trophy win. However, his T20 International form saw him dropped from the squad. He carries these lessons into 2026.
At 45, Venus Williams makes Australian Open history with wildcard return
Seven-time Grand Slam champion Venus Williams, aged 45, will make a historic return to the Australian Open after receiving a wildcard. This marks her 22nd appearance at the Melbourne Park event, making her the oldest woman to compete in the season's opening major. Williams expressed excitement for her return, recalling numerous incredible memories at the venue.
Usman Khawaja retires: 'They told me I'd never play for Australia' calls out stereotypes
Usman Khawaja announced his retirement from international cricket, confirming the upcoming fifth Ashes Test at the Sydney Cricket Ground will be his last. The veteran left-hander, Australia's first Muslim Test cricketer, reflected on a journey of resilience and representation, overcoming early career setbacks to become a key player and advocate.
Australian cricketer Usman Khawaja is retiring from international cricket. His final match is the fifth Ashes test. Khawaja spoke about racial stereotyping he faced. He is the first Muslim to play for Australia. Khawaja had a strong late-career revival. He feels content with his career and hopes to have inspired people.
'Don't gaslight me' - Khawaja hits out at racial stereotyping
Khawaja feels he has been treated differently across his career because of his race and religion
'This is how greatness is built': Ex-India cricketer backs Gill to follow Kohli's path
Irfan Pathan drew parallels between his own early international career under Rahul Dravid and Shubman Gill's current trajectory. Pathan believes Gill's leadership roles have fostered significant growth, mirroring the lessons he received about handling increased pressure. Despite a T20 setback, Pathan sees Gill's talent and willingness to learn as indicators of future success.
'Play like Pujara and Rahane': Ex-India batter's old-school advice amid Test batting chaos
Former India batter Robin Uthappa critiques the MCG Test pitch as seam-friendly but not unplayable, attributing struggles to modern batting's lack of patience. He argues for a reset in expectations, suggesting 250 can be competitive with discipline, citing Pujara and Rahane as examples. Uthappa also lamented Joe Root's struggles, reflecting a broader concern about Test cricket's entertainment over endurance.
Australia's Khawaja to retire after fifth Ashes test
The Pakistan-born batter injured his back in the Ashes opener in Perth and missed the second test before initially being dropped from the team for the third in Adelaide
WTT Youth Contender: 334 players from 10 countries, Feeder Series in Vadodara
The second edition of the WTT Youth Contender, featuring U-11 to U-19 categories, will be held from January 2 to 5, followed by the WTT Feeder Series from January 7 to 11
Littler into semis but second seed Humphries out
Luke Littler beats Krzysztof Ratajski to reach the PDC World Championship semi-finals, before second seed Luke Humphries loses to Gian van Veen. Littler into semis but second seed Humphries out
Khawaja announces he will retire from international cricket after SCG Ashes finale
He will play his final Test at the SCG, the ground where his career started in early 2011
Ferreira, Gleeson star in Super Kings' Super Over win over Super Giants
Ferreira first lit up Super Kings' death overs with the bat, then picked up a wicket with the ball before his direct hit as wicketkeeper took the game into the Super Over
Dope-tainted Reetika dropped; compound archers enter TOPS core group
The list was drastically pruned from 179 to 94 last year, marking the end of the 2024 Paris Olympics cycle. But it has been redrawn to reflect the performances of the past one year
Australia names a spin-heavy squad of 15 players for the T20 World Cup in Sri Lanka and India
Starc has missed just one of the past six ICC's T20 events but retired from the format at the international level late last year
No participation fee, financial responsibility by AIFF among conditions from clubs for ISL restart
Thirteen Indian Super League clubs have informed the AIFF they may participate in the delayed 2025-26 season, but only if there are no participation fees and the federation covers organizational costs. They also requested a clear roadmap for financial sustainability and government support to ensure the league's viability.
NZ ODIs: Will selectors drop Rishabh Pant without even playing him once?
Rishabh Pant's inconsistent form and lack of recent ODI opportunities raise questions about his place in the upcoming New Zealand series squad. Despite his potential, selectors face a dilemma with other in-form wicketkeepers and batsmen vying for spots, while bowling combinations are also being considered.
New year, new challenges for the Men in Blue
India, ahead of the five-match joust against New Zealand beginning later this month, are sitting on an unbeaten streak in T20Is stretching to 15 series; they are unequivocally the No. 1 side in the world and possess an array of riches capable of holding its own in any conditions
Thipsay rates Alpine SG Pipers GCL triumph as his greatest moment
Chelsea part ways with manager Maresca
The Italian, who joined Chelsea in 2024 after steering Leicester City to Premier League promotion, guided the London side to Champions League qualification, the Conference League trophy and the Club World Cup title in his first season.
'If they get pummelled': Ex-England captain issues warning for Stokes & McCullum
Michael Vaughan dismisses England's Melbourne Test win as a 'lottery', urging the team to prove their mettle in Sydney. He stresses that a competitive performance in the final Ashes Test is crucial for the Brendon McCullum-Ben Stokes regime to avoid scrutiny, emphasizing the need for honest reflection on mistakes rather than denial.
Multitasking has become a norm, says red-hot Kushagra
Marsh, Hardie help Scorchers end Hurricanes' winning streak at home
Hurricanes had previously won nine straight games at home
Winning games for Maharashtra keeps Bawne going
'I love revenge': Sabalenka calls for rematch with Kyrgios
World number one Aryna Sabalenka is eager for a rematch against Nick Kyrgios after their exhibition Battle of the Sexes loss. She believes a full-sized court and adjusted serving rules would better level the playing field for a second encounter. Sabalenka expressed confidence in her ability to learn from the defeat and secure revenge.
'Slow death' R Ashwin's chilling warning on ODI cricket after Kohli-Rohit era
Ravichandran Ashwin expressed serious doubts about the long-term future of ODI cricket, suggesting it might not survive beyond the 2027 World Cup after the departure of stars like Kohli and Sharma. He highlighted the growing dominance of T20 leagues and Test cricket's enduring appeal, noting that ODI relevance heavily relies on its biggest names.
Why Mohammed Shami needs to return in India colours before World Cup
Why Mohammed Shami needs to return in India colours before World Cup
'Why cant we?': Ex-India cricketer questions ODI scheduling with Kohli, Rohit in focus
Virat Kohli and Rohit Sharma's selective ODI appearances have revitalized the format, drawing significant fan interest. Their continued commitment and strong performances, reflected in the batting rankings, have restored anticipation. Former cricketer Irfan Pathan advocates for longer series and multi-team tournaments to sustain this momentum and capitalize on their impact.
Abbott and Babar help Sixers preserve winning streak over Renegades
The Melbourne side was beaten by their Sydney rivals for the 10th successive time
Virat Kohli adds special emoji, posts picture with Anushka Sharma - See pic
Virat Kohli celebrated New Year's Day 2026 with wife Anushka Sharma, sharing intimate moments on social media. Kohli recently made a return to Indias premier domestic one-day competition for the first time in 15 years and made an immediate impact. Kohli struck scores of 131 and 77 in successive innings, reaffirming his class and enduring hunger for runs.
The year 2025 will forever be remembered as the season Indian women's cricket crossed its final frontier. From despair to dominance, from past scars to present glory, this World Cup triumph was not just a victory, it was a statement to the cricketing world.
Sikandar Raza's brother passes away at 13; Zimbabwe star posts emotional message
Raza himself responded to the tragic news on social media, sharing a broken heart emoji beneath Zimbabwe Crickets condolence message. The personal loss comes at a demanding phase in Razas professional career. He was last seen in action for the Sharjah Warriorz during the ILT20 2025, where he featured in 10 matches, scoring 171 runs and picking up 10 wickets.
From RCB's maiden IPL title to Neeraj Chopra's 90-m throw: 2025 saw several 'firsts' in sports
The year 2025 brought incredible sporting triumphs. Royal Challengers Bengaluru won their first IPL title. India's women's cricket team became world champions. Neeraj Chopra broke the 90-meter javelin mark. South Africa secured their maiden WTC title. Many other teams and athletes achieved historic milestones, ending decades of waiting for major trophies.
Shubman Gill leads India, Temba Bavuma shines for South Africa: The best performers of 2025
The year 2025 witnessed remarkable cricketing achievements. Shubman Gill led India with record-breaking performances. Jacob Duffy emerged as a top wicket-taker. Temba Bavuma captained South Africa to historic victories. Joe Root and Shai Hope displayed consistent batting prowess. Abhishek Sharma and Rachin Ravindra shone in T20s and ODIs respectively. Virat Kohli made a strong comeback.
R Ashwin's bold message to CSK on Sarfaraz Khan ahead of IPL 2026
Sarfaraz Khan brought up his hundred in just 56 balls in what was a breathtaking knock. Ashwin also highlighted the batters performances in the recently concluded Syed Mushtaq Ali Trophy (SMAT), where he amassed 329 runs in seven matches at a strike rate of 203.08 and an average of 65.80.
Cricket calendar 2026: Here's full schedule of Team India
Team India gears up for a demanding 2026 cricket calendar. The year begins with a series against New Zealand. The T20 World Cup, hosted in India, is a major focus. Following this, the team will participate in the IPL and embark on overseas tours to England, Sri Lanka, and New Zealand.
Chess wars: Defiant Vladimir Kramnik sues FIDE for defamation in Swiss civil court
The exact cause of American Grandmaster Daniel Naroditskys death is not known but in his last livestream, he talked about being under immense mental stress over the allegations levelled by Kramnik.
Lalremsiami nominated for Arjuna Award
She has also represented India at two Commonwealth Games, winning bronze in Birmingham. She has been part of the teams that won a silver and a bronze at the Asian Games and has competed in two World Cups.
David Miller masterclass lifts Paarl Royals to first SA20 win
David Millers unbeaten 71 off 38 balls guided Paarl Royals to their first SA20 Season 4 win, chasing down Sunrisers Eastern Capes 149 with two balls to spare at St Georges Park. After slipping to 35/4, Miller and Keagan Lion-Cachet added 114 for the fifth wicket, while teenager Nqobani Mokoena starred with 4/34.
SA20: Rutherford, Brevis power Pretoria Capitals to first win
Sherfane Rutherford starred with bat and ball as Pretoria Capitals opened their SA20 Season 4 account with a commanding 85-run win over MI Cape Town. After a blazing late assault alongside Dewald Brevis lifted Capitals to 220/5, Rutherfords career-best 4/24 dismantled the hosts for 135 at Newlands.
Magnus Carlsen extends his kingdom
By winning the World Rapid and Blitz titles in Doha, Qatar his fifth such double and 20th overall world title in a jaw-dropping career the 35-yearold once again proved that his competitors, including what Garry Kasparov termed Vishy Anands children, are kids in comparison.
Real Madrid star Kylian Mbapp sidelined with knee injury
Madrid said in a brief statement the France superstar had been diagnosed with a sprain but did not provide a timeline for his recovery
'Dreams don't come true that quickly': Sarfaraz Khan
Batting at No. 4, Sarfaraz Khan blasted nine fours and 14 sixes, bringing up his hundred off just 56 balls. His innings left Goas bowlers and fielders looking shellshocked. On Wednesday, he delivered it with a sledgehammer, scoring a blistering 157 off 75 balls to power Mumbai to a 87-run victory over Goa at the Jaipuria Vidyalaya Ground.
Major retirements in sports during 2025
From Rohit Sharma to Virat Kohli in Test cricket to Shelly-Ann Fraser-Pryce in athletics to Petra Kvitova and Rohan Bopanna in tennis, 2025 saw some high-profile sporting personalities retire. Here is a look at a few
Two friends killed: Ex-boxing champion survives fatal car crash
Joshua was travelling on Monday with Sina Ghami and Latif Ayodele on a busy highway linking Lagos and Ibadan in southwestern Nigeria when their SUV crashed into a stationary truck. The Traffic Compliance and Enforcement Agency (TRACE) in Ogun state, where the accident occurred, said preliminary investigations showed the vehicle suffered a tyre burst before ramming into the truck.
Mitchell Marsh named captain as Australia go spin-heavy for T20 World Cup 2026
T20 World Cup 2026: Australia has announced a spin-heavy provisional squad for the 2026 T20 World Cup, captained by Mitchell Marsh. The 15-member team includes key players like Pat Cummins and Cameron Green, with a strategic focus on spin for the expected slow pitches in Sri Lanka and India. Selectors prioritized balance and versatility, opting for Xavier Bartlett over a left-arm seamer.
Why Ajit Agarkar & Co. can't ignore Mohammed Shami anymore
Ajit Agarkar has been repeatedly questioned about the omission and has maintained the eed to play some cricket stand. If 145.2 overs in Ranji Trophy, 26.5 overs in Syed Mushtaq Ali Trophy and 34.2 overs in ongoing Vijay Hazare Trophy doesn't qualify, then the definition of some cricket needs to be made clear.
India vs NZ ODI squad announcement: Date, venue, where to watch
India and New Zealand are set for an eight-match limited-overs series, including three ODIs and five T20Is, from January 11 to 31. This series is crucial for senior players returning to the ODI setup and for finalising T20 combinations ahead of the 2026 T20 World Cup. While the BCCI has already announced the T20I squad for the New Zealand series, the ODI squad is yet to be named.
Connolly included in Australia's T20 World Cup squad; Owen, Dwarshuis omitted
Pat Cummins, Josh Hazlewood and Tim David have all been included but will need to prove their fitness in the coming weeks
Nigerian authorities say British boxer Anthony Joshua released from hospital after road crash
'Light of my life': Kohli's new year post with Anushka breaks the internet
Virat Kohli celebrated the start of 2026 with a personal social media post alongside wife Anushka Sharma. On the cricketing front, the 35-year-old continues his remarkable ODI form, recently becoming the fastest to 16,000 List A runs after a stellar domestic return and a strong ODI series against South Africa.
Bollywood actress Khushi issues fresh clarification on 'relationship' with Suryakumar
Actress Khushi Mukherjee clarified her recent remarks about T20I captain Suryakumar Yadav, stating they were friends and no romantic relationship exists. She explained her comments were taken out of context and her Instagram was hacked. Mukherjee expressed support for Yadav and Team India ahead of the T20 World Cup, emphasizing no current contact.
A year like no other: 2026 packed with major sports events
A year like no other: 2026 packed with major sports events
Sherfane Rutherford fires Capital to first win of season
Wihan Lubbe rebuilds after tricky start for visitors, leaving MICT with another mountain to climb
Smritis record-breaking year to remember
In 2025, the vice-captain of the Indian womens team raised her game to a different level and accomplished various feats, notably becoming the fastest woman to the mark of 10,000 runs in international cricket in addition to playing an integral role in Indias victorious ODI World Cup campaign at home
Arsenal will end the year top of the Premier League after 4-1 statement win over Villa
The fourth goal, scored by substitute Gabriel Jesus one minute after coming on, highlighted the depth of Arsenal's bench this season and coach Mikel Arteta jubilantly high-fived his assistants at the final whistle
Real Madrid's nightmare deepens as Kylian Mbappe joins growing injury list
Real Madrid faces a significant blow as Kylian Mbappe has been diagnosed with a left knee sprain, sidelining him for at least three weeks. This injury jeopardizes his participation in crucial upcoming fixtures, including the league clash against Real Betis and the Spanish Super Cup semi-final. The forward's absence further exacerbates Real Madrid's existing injury woes.
Toss was crucial, says Jharkhand skipper Kushagra
Dominant Women in Blue on the right track for T20 WC
Harmanpreet& Co. come up with a ruthless display to sweep the series against Sri Lanka; all-rounderDeepti,Shafalistar for India; after disappointing in first four gamesthe visitingside puts up a fighting performance in the final match
Ankitleads from the front to power Haryana to win
Miller's sixes turn tables to lift Royals off the bottom
He rescued Paarl Royals from 35 for 4 and handed Sunrisers their first loss of this season
Vijay Hazare Trophy: Utkarsh, Shikhar power Jharkhand past Tamil Nadu
The openers put on 201 to make short work of the target of 244; Aparajiths century and Edens six-hitting heroics help Kerala pull off a heist against Rajasthan
GM Raunak Sadhwani Exclusive: Becoming Grandmaster at 13, hidden costs of the game, and more #chess
GM Raunak Sadhwani Exclusive: Becoming Grandmaster at 13, hidden costs of the game, and more #chess
Chattogram dropped as venue for remainder of BPL season
Decision taken after BPL was postponed for two days following the death of former Bangladesh prime minister Khaleda Zia
Indias go-to playerDeeptigoes on top of the world
