• MMA's first Asian Games appearance: Varun Sanyal will compete in the men's 77kg division as MMA debuts as a medal sport at Aichi-Nagoya 2026.
• A two-time national champion: He also won bronze at the Asian AMMA Championships in China in January 2026, part of a two-member Indian MMA contingent.
• An unlikely entry point: Sanyal's interest in combat sports began through WWE and TNA wrestling, deepened by watching Sushil Kumar and Yogeshwar Dutt at the 2012 London Olympics.
• Father's steady support: Economist Sanjeev Sanyal, a member of the PM's Economic Advisory Council, has backed his son's journey across multiple sports since childhood.
• A late qualification confirmation: Varun received final confirmation of his Asian Games selection just two weeks before the event.
• Seeking greater institutional backing: He said government interest in MMA has grown, but athletes still rely heavily on personal sponsorships and federation-funded support.

New Delhi: When Mixed Martial Arts (MMA) makes its Asian Games debut at Aichi-Nagoya 2026, India's Varun Sanyal will enter the competition carrying both an established record and a personal journey shaped by wrestling, WWE and a love for the Rocky Balboa story.

A two-time national champion and bronze medallist at the Asian AMMA Championships in China in January 2026, Varun will compete in the men's traditional 77kg division as MMA makes its first appearance as a medal sport at the Asian Games.

Varun is part of a two-member Indian MMA contingent for the Games, alongside Suchika Tariyal Hooda, who represented India in kurash at the 2022 Asian Games in Hangzhou and will compete in the women's 60kg category.

From WWE Fandom To Martial Arts

A professional fighter and a first-class business management honours graduate from Queen Mary University of London, Varun's introduction to combat sports came through an unlikely combination of professional wrestling and cinema. WWE and TNA sparked his initial interest, while watching Sushil Kumar and Yogeshwar Dutt succeed at the 2012 London Olympics pushed him further towards martial arts.

"Seeing our Olympians succeed really drew me towards martial arts and eventually towards MMA. MMA is, in many ways, the most primal form of sport and competition, so I was naturally drawn to it. It's also a life skill. Learning how to defend yourself, stay calm under pressure and make decisions when you're under physical threat are incredibly important skills. Having to make decisions under pressure, sometimes with very serious consequences, has been one of the biggest learnings I've taken from MMA," Varun told SAI Media.

Varun's sporting development was also shaped by a wide range of disciplines. Growing up in Singapore, he played cricket, football, athletics and squash, while also taking up powerlifting before moving into wrestling, Jiu-Jitsu, Muay Thai and eventually MMA.

A Father's Support Across Every Sport

His father, economist and author Sanjeev Sanyal, a member of the Economic Advisory Council to the Prime Minister of India, has been a constant source of support throughout that journey.

"Growing up, I remember my father taking me out to the field and kicking a football around with me. He would take me to play squash, we'd sometimes go on random runs, and he'd make us do exercises together. Even when I was very young, he put me into taekwondo classes, although I wasn't particularly interested in it at the time. As I grew up, whether it was playing cricket, going to the gym, or getting into powerlifting, he was always very supportive.

"MMA took him a little bit of time to come around to, but I can't deny how supportive he's been throughout my journey. When it comes to MMA, he's always discussing it with me and trying to understand the sport a little more. He's supportive in whatever way he can be," said Varun.

A Qualification Confirmed Just Two Weeks Before The Games

The Asian Games qualification journey, however, was far from straightforward. After winning the MMA SFI Nationals in 2025, Varun qualified for the Asian AMMA Championships in China, where his bronze medal placed him within the Asian ranking system.

"At the time, though, it wasn't particularly clear who had qualified for the Asian Games or what the qualification process was going to look like. There wasn't much clarity from the Asian side about how the qualification process would work. So rather than sitting around waiting, I decided to focus on my professional career.

"Eventually, I received final confirmation that I would be going to the Asian Games just two weeks before the Games themselves. So, obviously, preparing mentally and physically for something of this magnitude in such a short period has been quite a challenge. But I suppose that's part of sport. That's what sport is," said Varun.

Seeking Greater Institutional Support For MMA

Varun believes the inclusion of MMA at the Asian Games could prove transformative for the discipline in India, although he feels athletes still need greater institutional backing.

"The government is now aware of MMA and has shown more interest in the sport over the last year than it ever has before. That is certainly a positive step. We are still having to find support from different places just to continue our careers. I'm fortunate to have Raphe mPhibr sponsoring me and supporting me on my journey, and I've had other people support me over the years as well. But I understand that MMA is still a relatively new sport, and I trust that things will improve with time."

Varun also acknowledged the efforts of national federation president Nikhil Kunder and others who have helped sustain the sport in India.

"I know how difficult it must be. The nationals, the events that have been conducted, and a lot of the training and expenses involved in supporting the fighters have been funded by the people running the federation themselves. A lot of that money has effectively gone straight out of Nikhil's or the other people's own pockets. So, while I'm happy that the government is now looking at MMA more closely, I would like to see that interest translate into more direct support for the athletes."

Building A Wider Pathway For Indian MMA Fighters

With MMA now entering the Asian Games programme, Varun sees an opportunity to build a much wider competitive pathway for Indian fighters.

"We now have two Indian athletes who have qualified and are ranked in the top six in Asia. I don't see why there can't be more. I don't see why, eventually, we can't fill all the weight categories in MMA in the same way that we do in sports like wrestling and boxing," said Varun.

• Shafali Verma scored the fastest fifty in Women's T20 Asia Cup history, reaching her half-century off just 24 balls.
• She surpassed opening partner Smriti Mandhana's previous record of 25 balls, set in 2022.
• This was Shafali's 21st T20I fifty and her third of the ongoing tournament, joint-most in a single edition alongside Chamari Athapaththu's 2024 tally.
• India captain Harmanpreet Kaur won the toss and chose to bat first, with G Kamalini replacing Pratika Rawal as the only change.
• The record-breaking knock came in the 2026 final against Sri Lanka at the Dubai International Cricket Stadium.

A Record-Breaking Start to the Final

India star batter Shafali Verma etched her name into the history books on Sunday, smashing the fastest half-century in the history of the Women's Asia Cup during the 2026 final against Sri Lanka at the Dubai International Cricket Stadium. Reaching her fifty off just 24 balls, Shafali's innings set the tone for India's approach in the title clash after the Women in Blue elected to bat first.

A Slow Start That Turned Explosive

Interestingly, Shafali's innings did not begin with the same urgency it would eventually be remembered for. She took four balls just to get off the mark, suggesting a cautious assessment of the conditions and the Sri Lankan bowling attack in the opening exchanges. Once she had seen off the initial deliveries, however, she shifted gears dramatically, taking apart the Sri Lankan bowlers with a string of aggressive strokes that carried her rapidly toward her half-century, which she completed with a boundary off Kavisha Dilhari in the eighth over.

Breaking Her Own Partner's Record

The knock marked Shafali's 21st T20I half-century overall, and notably, the fastest fifty in the history of the Women's T20 Asia Cup, surpassing the previous record of 25 balls set by her own opening partner, Smriti Mandhana, against Sri Lanka in Sylhet back in 2022. The symbolism of one opening partner breaking the other's record, in a final against the same opposition, adds a layer of context to the achievement, reflecting the consistent quality India's opening pair has brought to the tournament's biggest stage.

The Complete List of Fastest Fifties

According to tournament records, the list of fastest half-centuries in Women's T20 Asia Cup history now reads as follows: Shafali Verma's 24-ball fifty against Sri Lanka in Dubai in 2026 sits at the top, followed by Smriti Mandhana's 25-ball effort against Sri Lanka in Sylhet in 2022. Richa Ghosh's 26-ball fifty against UAE in Dambulla in 2024 and two further 26-ball innings, both by Shafali herself, against Nepal in Dambulla in 2024 and against Thailand in Dubai earlier in the current 2026 tournament, round out the list, underlining just how frequently Shafali has featured among the tournament's fastest innings across multiple editions.

A Tournament of Consistent Big Scores

This fifty also marked Shafali's third half-century of the ongoing tournament, a tally that now places her level with Sri Lankan captain Chamari Athapaththu for the joint-most fifties scored in a single edition of the Women's T20 Asia Cup, matching Athapaththu's own tally of four fifties during Sri Lanka's title-winning campaign in 2024. The comparison is notable given that Athapaththu's side is the very opponent India face in this final, adding an extra layer of rivalry to the record-breaking context.

India's Team Composition for the Final

India won the toss ahead of the match, with captain Harmanpreet Kaur opting to bat first in the summit clash. The team made one change to its lineup for the final, bringing in G Kamalini in place of Pratika Rawal. Speaking at the toss, Kaur explained the team's approach and the reasoning behind the change. "We are going to bat first. It's a very important game for us; put up a score on the board. Every final is important; there is pressure, but we need to play good cricket. We have one change: Pratika is resting, and Kamalini is playing," she said, framing the decision to bat first as an attempt to set a competitive target and apply pressure on Sri Lanka's chase in what both sides would regard as a high-stakes, high-pressure occasion.

• India thrashed South Korea 5-1 in the first semifinal to reach the AHF Junior Women's Asia Cup 2026 final.
• Drag-flick specialist Supriya scored a hat-trick, all from penalty corners.
• Madhu Sidar and Sukhveer Kaur scored India's other two goals from open play.
• India will face the winner of the China vs Japan semifinal in the title clash.
• The defending champions remain firmly on track to retain their Asia Cup title.

India Storm Into the Final With Dominant Display

Defending champions India booked their place in the final of the AHF Junior Women's Asia Cup 2026 with a commanding 5-1 win over South Korea in the first semifinal on Saturday, powered by a hat-trick of penalty-corner conversions from drag-flick specialist Supriya. The victory keeps India firmly on course to retain the title they currently hold, and sets up a summit clash against the winner of the second semifinal between hosts China and Japan.

A Cautious Start Gives Way to Indian Control

The opening quarter saw both sides reluctant to commit numbers forward, resulting in a tightly contested opening period. India gradually found their attacking rhythm as the game progressed, breaking the deadlock in the 13th minute when Madhu Sidar finished off a well-worked team move to put the defending champions ahead.

Supriya's Set-Piece Mastery Takes Over

Once ahead, India began pressing more consistently into the Korean circle, and their persistence paid off with a penalty corner in the 17th minute. Supriya converted it with a precise drag-flick to double India's lead, the first of what would become a match-defining hat-trick. India continued to dominate territory and possession, and struck again in the 21st minute through a well-executed aerial pass into the Korean 23-metre area, which set up Sukhveer Kaur for a clinical finish to make it 3-0. South Korea created a handful of openings before the break, but India's defence held firm to take a comfortable three-goal cushion into half-time.

Extending the Lead After the Break

India carried their attacking momentum into the second half, earning another penalty corner in the 33rd minute. Supriya once again made no mistake, converting her second of the match to push India's lead to 4-0. South Korea did manage to pull one back in the 41st minute, with Yuri Jeong scoring from a set-piece to bring the scoreline to 4-1, offering the Koreans a brief window of hope.

A Third Strike Seals the Contest

India, however, did not allow that opening to develop into any real momentum shift. They tightened their defensive shape while continuing to create chances through counters and set-pieces, and were rewarded with another penalty corner in the 56th minute. Supriya stepped up once more, converting her third drag-flick of the match to complete her hat-trick and effectively seal the result beyond any doubt.

Why This Result Matters for India's Title Defence

The manner of India's win, built on defensive control, clinical set-piece execution and contributions from multiple attackers, offers a strong marker of form heading into the final. With Supriya's penalty-corner precision proving decisive across three separate instances in a single match, India's set-piece unit looks to be operating at a level that could prove crucial in a title-deciding contest, particularly if the final turns into a tighter, lower-scoring affair against either China or Japan.

Looking Ahead to the Final

With the semifinal win secured in emphatic fashion, India's title defence remains firmly on track as they await the outcome of the second semifinal between hosts China and Japan to learn their opponents for the summit clash.

• Mohammed Shami played his 100th first-class match during the Duleep Trophy 2026 final for East Zone.
• East Zone beat South Zone in the final, marking their third Duleep title with Shami involved in both the first in 2012 and this latest win.
• Shami said his hunger and passion remain unchanged despite the years, with only added maturity and game planning.
• He took 2/42 in the final and reflected on the ups and downs of a long career.
• The veteran fast bowler has been out of the Indian team for a while but continues playing domestic cricket.

A Milestone Wrapped in a Championship Moment

Indian fast bowler Mohammed Shami's 100th first-class match arrived under circumstances few cricketers get to experience, coinciding with the Duleep Trophy 2026 final, where his East Zone side went on to defeat South Zone. For a bowler who has spent months away from the national team, the milestone offered both a personal landmark and a chance to contribute directly to a significant team victory.

Why the Timing Made This Milestone Different

Reaching a century of first-class appearances is, by itself, a marker of endurance and longevity in the sport. But for Shami, the coincidence of this milestone falling on a Duleep Trophy final carried added symbolic weight. Speaking in a video shared by BCCI Domestic, he described the achievement in personal terms: "100th match is always special, whether you score a hundred and raise your bat for the first time or you play in 100 matches, it is a very long journey, a long sacrifice and a goal of your life." He added that playing 100 first-class matches, representing one's state across different venues and conditions, remains a genuine dream for any cricketer.

A Full-Circle Moment for East Zone

The occasion held particular significance given Shami's history with East Zone's Duleep Trophy campaigns. He was just 21 when East Zone won their maiden Duleep Trophy title in 2012, and 14 years later, he played a vital role in the side's third title triumph. "Last time the East Zone won, I was there, and now, after those years, I am still present here as the circle comes full. 100th match and the Duleep Trophy final win, it's really special for me," Shami said, framing the victory as a kind of career bookend spanning over a decade of involvement with the team.

On Hunger, Maturity and What Has Changed

Reflecting on how his approach to the game has evolved, Shami was clear that his fundamental motivation remains untouched by time. "Hunger is the same, I think, the hunger for the wicket, the passion to run; it's the same as before. Now only one thing has changed; at that time I didn't know anything, now I know planning, plotting, and maturity is more, so that's the only difference, but I don't think anything else has changed," he said. The distinction he draws, between unchanged passion and accumulated tactical maturity, offers insight into how experienced fast bowlers often sustain long careers: not through renewed physical intensity alone, but through smarter application of experience.

Performance in the Final

Shami contributed with the ball in the final, picking up figures of 2/42 across his spells, a modest but meaningful contribution to East Zone's title-winning effort on a personally significant occasion.

On Managing the Ups and Downs of a Long Career

Beyond the immediate milestone, Shami reflected more broadly on what it takes to sustain a career spanning this many years, acknowledging the inevitable struggles along the way. "There are ups and downs; if you look at life, there is a lot of struggle, there is pain, there is relief, laughter, happiness, everything comes in it, but how you manage, how you maintain yourself, that is a very important part," he said. He pointed to consistency, rhythm and staying connected to the game as the real determinants of longevity, rather than any single formula for success. "The same fight, the same passion, the same passion takes us forward and gives us the opportunity to perform for so many years, so I think you should be a good fighter, so I don't think it's very difficult," he concluded.

What This Means Going Forward

At 36 and currently outside the Indian team setup, Shami's continued presence in domestic cricket, marked by this landmark appearance and a title-winning contribution, signals that his competitive drive remains very much intact, even as questions about his international future continue to linger in the background.

• Gold medal in his sights: Sunil Kumar, who won bronze at Hangzhou 2022, is now focused on winning gold at the upcoming Asian Games in the 87kg Greco-Roman category.
• Uzbekistan training camp paid off: Training alongside 2022 gold medallists in Uzbekistan helped push the Indian contingent to a higher level, he said.
• From village wrestling to national duty: Kumar recalled how his motivation shifted from personal enjoyment to representing the country.
• Managing the fear of injury: After knee surgery last year, he said the fear of getting hurt never fully disappears for any wrestler, but remains part of the sport.
• Eyes on Olympic qualification next: Once the Asian Games conclude, his preparation for the 2027 Olympic qualification events will begin.
• Recovery backed by IIS: The Inspire Institute of Sport supported his rehabilitation, which he said left him feeling stronger than before the injury.

New Delhi: India's Greco-Roman wrestler Sunil Kumar has set his eyes on the gold medal at the upcoming Asian Games as he looks to go all the way after winning a bronze in Hangzhou 2022.

Kumar, who competes in the 87kg category, began his journey in the sport in his village and has now turned out to be one of the top wrestlers in the Indian contingent heading for the Asian Games.

"I Wanted To Do Something For My Country"

"I started wrestling in my village, and in the beginning, it was just something I enjoyed doing. But as I grew and started competing, I began to think that I wanted to do something for my country, not just for myself. That thought has stayed with me ever since, and it is what pushes me even today," said Sunil.

A Strong Training Camp In Uzbekistan

Kumar has his focus on winning a gold medal as he looks to build on the recent training camp in Uzbekistan. "My full focus right now is on winning a gold medal for the country at the Asian Games. Everything I am doing is working towards that one goal. We recently had a training camp in Uzbekistan, and it went very well.

"The Uzbek wrestlers are very good, and there were a few gold medallists from 2022 training there as well. Training alongside wrestlers of that level pushed all of us to get better," he said.

Living With The Fear Of Injury

The grappler has had his own share of battles with injuries over the years. He underwent knee surgery last year and admitted that fear of getting hurt never fully goes away for any wrestler, even at his level. However, Kumar also sees this as something that every athlete fears.

"I had knee surgery last year, so I know what it feels like to go through an injury. The fear of injury is always there at the back of your mind; no wrestler can say that they don't feel it. But if injuries were not a part of this sport, then anyone would have been able to do what we do. Everyone carries a little bit of that fear; it is just part of playing this sport at this level," he said.

Looking Ahead: Olympic Qualification In 2027

The Asian Games 2026 remains Kumar's top priority, but he is also keeping an eye on the next phase of his career as he looks for an Olympic qualification next year.

"Once the Asian Games are done, my preparation for the Olympics will begin properly from 2027, when the qualification events start. That will be the next big target for me," he said.

IIS's Role In His Recovery

The grappler has also had the backing of the Inspire Institute of Sport (IIS) for the support that carried him through that period. "After my knee surgery, IIS supported me a lot through my rehab. They gave me access to a really good gym and made sure I had everything I needed to recover properly. Because of that support, my comeback went well, and honestly, once I came back from rehabilitation, my body actually felt stronger than it did before the injury," he said.

(With inputs from IANS)

• Applications reopened: BCCI is again inviting applications for Head – Sports Science and Medicine at its Centre of Excellence (CoE) in Bengaluru, after failing to find a suitable candidate in a 2025 attempt.
• Vacant since March 2025: The post has been empty since Nitin Patel, who helped players like Jasprit Bumrah and KL Rahul recover in time for the 2023 World Cup, left the role.
• Wide-ranging responsibilities: The role involves leading BCCI's sports science strategy, managing senior medical staff, and overseeing injury prevention, rehabilitation and player welfare.
• Strict eligibility criteria: Candidates need a Master's degree in Sports Science (Doctorate preferred), five years of strategic leadership experience, and must be under 60 years old.
• Reports to VVS Laxman: The successful candidate will report directly to the Head of Cricket at the CoE, former India batter VVS Laxman.
• BCCI in no rush: Secretary Devajit Saikia said the board wants the right candidate rather than rushing the appointment, citing a global shortage of qualified specialists.

New Delhi: The Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI) on Friday said it is again inviting applications for the position of Head – Sports Science and Medicine at its state-of-the-art Centre of Excellence (CoE) facility in Bengaluru.

The BCCI had previously asked for applications to fill the top post in September 2025, but it didn't find a suitable candidate due to various reasons. The position has been vacant since Nitin Patel ended his successful stint of nearly three years and left the CoE after March 2025.

Patel, a former Indian team physiotherapist, oversaw the recovery processes of Jasprit Bumrah, Shreyas Iyer, KL Rahul and Mohammed Shami and got them fit in time for the 2023 Men's ODI World Cup.

Role And Responsibilities

According to a media advisory released by the BCCI, the successful candidate will provide strategic and operational leadership across elite cricket programs and manage senior medical staff, including the national team's physios and strength and conditioning experts.

"The successful candidate will provide strategic and operational leadership to BCCI's Sports Science and Medicine services across its elite cricket and CoE programmes. The role will also involve line management of the Head of Physiotherapy (CoE), Team India Head of Physiotherapy, Head S&C (CoE) and Team India S&C, while working closely with National and CoE coaches, Cricket Education and other performance specialists to deliver integrated support programmes for Indian players," the BCCI stated in its advisory.

The role will carry a core focus on athlete longevity and modern medical practices. "The position will have a key focus on player welfare, injury prevention and rehabilitation, physical development, research, innovation and the adoption of relevant technologies and services," added the BCCI.

Outlining the core duties of the executive, the BCCI noted that the individual will "develop and implement the strategic vision, objectives and framework for BCCI's Sports Science and Medicine department, including clinical and medical governance, service delivery, risk management and player welfare."

Furthermore, the official will "oversee programmes related to injury prevention and risk reduction, player recovery and rehabilitation, athlete development, illness and wellness management, and long-term physical development," while also driving research initiatives and institutional partnerships.

Eligibility Criteria And Application Process

Candidates applying for the high-profile post are required to hold a Master's degree in Sports Science or a related discipline, with a Doctorate preferred, alongside a minimum of five years' experience in a strategic leadership role managing multidisciplinary performance teams in professional or Olympic sport.

The applicant must be under 60 years of age and will report directly to the Head of Cricket at the CoE, former India batter VVS Laxman. Interested candidates have been asked to submit their applications online by 5pm on September 30, following which shortlisted applicants will be called for personal interviews.

BCCI Secretary: "We Won't Rush Into Filling The Vacancy"

After a review meeting was held earlier this month at its headquarters in Mumbai, BCCI Secretary Devajit Saikia had stated that the board won't rush into filling the long-standing vacancy. "The vacant position of the head of sports science is not a deterrent to our activities in CoE. The proper qualified person should be positioned (for that role), not anyone just having the qualification is fit for that.

"In that aspect, we have about 16 persons in place to maintain the fitness level or the rehab or the prehab facilities in COE, but one important person is required to supervise that. That kind of person is very short in number in India as well as in the whole world."

"So we are trying to find that kind of a person at the earliest possible time and once again we will start the exercise to find a person who can fit into that position of the head of sports science and medicine in COE," he had said.

(With inputs from IANS)

• 16-match unbeaten streak: Ishan Kishan extended his unbeaten record as first-class captain to 16 matches, a run that began in 2018.
• 350 runs across two innings: He led East Zone to victory over South Zone in the Duleep Trophy final, scoring 350 runs across both innings.
• East Zone's third-ever title: The win marks East Zone's third Duleep Trophy title.
• Top 10 among unbeaten captains: Kishan now ranks among the top 10 unbeaten captains in first-class cricket, per CricViz, with Mahinda Halangoda leading at 30 unbeaten matches.
• Second captaincy title: This follows his Syed Mushtaq Ali Trophy win with Jharkhand in the 2025/26 season.
• Credits the group effort: Kishan said the title was a collective achievement, emphasising the team's focus on supporting each other.

Chennai: India international Ishan Kishan extended his unbeaten record as captain in first-class cricket after leading East Zone to their third-ever Duleep Trophy title on Thursday.

Kishan was in stellar form in the final against South Zone, scoring 350 across two innings to lead the domestic side to a win on the first-innings lead. With the victory, Kishan has also extended his record for being unbeaten as captain in first-class cricket to 16 matches. His run began in 2018 and is now in its ninth year.

What Does "Winning On First-Innings Lead" Mean: In multi-day first-class cricket, when a match doesn't reach a natural conclusion within the allotted days (both sides completing two innings each), the result is often decided by which team scored more runs in their first innings. Since East Zone's final against South Zone wasn't finished within the scheduled duration, East Zone's higher first-innings total was enough to hand them the win — a common outcome in domestic four-day cricket where time constraints frequently prevent a full result.

A Top-10 Unbeaten Captain In First-Class Cricket

This has made him enter the top 10 of the unbeaten captains list in FC cricket. As per CricViz, the list is headed by former Sri Lanka cricketer Mahinda Halangoda, who was unbeaten in 30 FC matches as skipper.

"We Won This Title As A Group"

Meanwhile, Kishan credited the team's collective effort for their win. "We won this title as a group. I think everyone was taking care of each other, which was the most important thing for me. I think I've been a good leader (offered a cheeky smile), but I think the journey doesn't end here.

"You need to keep getting better in all the departments. Whether you're fielding or batting, you'll always make mistakes. So we just need to rectify that and get better day by day," Kishan said in the post-match presentation ceremony.

A Second Captaincy Title, And A Period Of Growth

The Duleep Trophy win is Kishan's second title as captain after winning the Syed Mushtaq Ali Trophy for Jharkhand in the 2025/26 season. Reflecting on his approach and mindset during his time away from the national team, the wicketkeeper-batter highlighted how the period helped him mature both as a cricketer and as a captain.

"I think it was more about just being calmer after the break, being more into the game, knowing what's important, how aware you are of the game and how you are reading the situation. You need to take care of each other, try and help each and every ball, so they don't get into that zone where I was.

"So I was just trying to help everyone, and it's been a good transformation for me as well. I've been more calm, more aware of situations, and more hungry. You want to perform for your team. You need to make your team win, and that is something which changed in me. Hundred percent, that is going to be there (on being that cheeky guy) till I turn ninety," he added.

• Semis Already Sealed: Seven-time champions India face Pakistan in their final Group A clash on Saturday, having already secured a semi-final berth.
• Smriti's Record-Breaking Form: Smriti Mandhana surpassed Mithali Raj's record for most runs in international women's cricket and now holds the record for most centuries across all formats in the women's game.
• India's Middle-Order Concerns: Despite being clear favourites, India's middle order has faced scrutiny after associate teams exposed weaknesses on Dubai's slow pitches.
• Pakistan's Batting Woes: Pakistan remain in semi-final contention after beating Thailand, but slipped to 25/3 in the powerplay before defending a modest total.
• Match Details: The clash takes place Saturday, September 5, at 8:00 PM IST at Dubai International Cricket Stadium, live on Sony Sports Ten 1 and Sony LIV.

India will look to refine their T20 approach when they take on arch-rivals Pakistan in their final Group A clash of the 2026 Women's Asia Cup at the Dubai International Cricket Stadium on Saturday. With a semi-final spot already secured, the seven-time champions enter the fixture with less pressure on the result itself, but with clear intent to sharpen their game ahead of the knockout stages.

A Rivalry That Rarely Delivers Close Contests

While India-Pakistan encounters typically generate immense off-field anticipation, particularly given their rarity outside multi-nation events, recent fixtures between the two sides have seldom produced tight, gripping contests on the field. This pattern positions India as clear favourites heading into Saturday's clash.

Why It Matters: India's Middle-Order Under the Scanner

Despite entering as heavy favourites, Harmanpreet Kaur's India side has faced scrutiny over its middle-order form, an area of concern that has been repeatedly exposed by associate nations on Dubai's slow, tricky pitches. This vulnerability remains a key aspect for India to address, even in what is expected to be a comfortable fixture on paper.

Smriti Mandhana's Historic Form

India's batting strength going into the match is headlined by vice-captain Smriti Mandhana and opening partner Shafali Verma, both arriving in outstanding touch after scoring 124 and 64 against Hong Kong China and Thailand respectively. Mandhana, in particular, enters the fixture on the back of a record-breaking performance on Thursday night, where she surpassed former teammate Mithali Raj's record for most runs in international women's cricket. She also registered her 18th international century in the same innings, moving past Meg Lanning and Laura Wolvaardt to claim the record for most centuries across all formats in the women's game. Given that she also struck a match-winning fifty against Pakistan in this year's T20 World Cup clash in Edgbaston, another big innings from Mandhana appears well within reach.

India's Bowling Attack in Good Shape

On the bowling front, pacer Nandani Sharma has impressed alongside Kranti Gaud in picking up breakthroughs, while Deepti Sharma has continued her consistent wicket-taking form. This depth in the bowling unit adds further weight to India's status as favourites heading into the contest.

Pakistan's Persistent Batting Concerns

Pakistan remain in contention for the semi-finals following an opening win over Thailand, but their batting fragility continues to be a significant worry. The side slipped to 25/3 during the powerplay in their previous match before managing to defend a modest target of 119 against their lower-ranked opponents, a performance that underlines the gap in batting depth compared to India.

Leaning on Established Names

Pakistan continues to rely heavily on top-order wicketkeeper-batter Muneeba Ali and captain Fatima Sana to anchor their innings and set the tempo. However, the side will need a marked improvement in overall batting performance to genuinely compete against a considerably more formidable Indian line-up.

Match Details

The India-Pakistan clash is scheduled for Saturday, September 5, at 8:00 PM IST at the Dubai International Cricket Stadium in Dubai. The match will be broadcast live on Sony Sports Ten 1 SD and HD channels, with live streaming available on the Sony LIV app and website.

Full Squads

India: Harmanpreet Kaur (captain), Smriti Mandhana (vice-captain), Shafali Verma, Bharti Fulmali, Deepti Sharma, Richa Ghosh (wk), G Kamalini (wk), Arundhati Reddy, Prema Rawat, Radha Yadav, Sree Charani, Renuka Thakur, Nandni Sharma, Kranti Gaud, and Pratika Rawal.

Pakistan: Fatima Sana (captain), Ayesha Zafar, Eman Naseer, Eyman Fatima, Gull Feroza, Momina Riasat, Muneeba Ali Siddiqui (wk), Sadaf Shamas, Nashra Sundhu, Sadia Iqbal, Saira Jabeen, Shawaal Zulfiqar, Tuba Hassan, Umm-e-Hani, and Waheeda Akhtar.

The Bigger Picture

Beyond the result, this match offers India a valuable opportunity to fine-tune combinations and address middle-order concerns ahead of the knockout stages, while Pakistan will be looking to build batting confidence regardless of the semi-final equation. The historic rivalry ensures the contest will draw significant viewership, even with the group-stage stakes already settled for India.

The Bottom Line

With Smriti Mandhana in record-breaking form and India's bowling attack firing on most cylinders, Saturday's clash presents India with a chance to iron out their middle-order concerns before the business end of the tournament, while Pakistan will be hoping their top order can finally deliver the platform their bowlers need to stay competitive.

• A Mentor's Message: Yuvraj Singh wished mentee Abhishek Sharma on his 26th birthday, praising his growth as a leader and his willingness to learn from failures.
• Playful Video Shared: The video showed Yuvraj making Abhishek do sit-ups for playing rash shots, capturing the lighthearted dynamic of their mentor-mentee bond.
• Wimbledon Memories: The clip also featured Yuvraj, Abhishek and Sanju Samson watching Wimbledon together, with Abhishek asking only for Yuvraj's blessings.
• Stellar T20I Record: Abhishek has scored two centuries and 11 half-centuries in 55 T20I innings, including the second-fastest century for India, in just 37 balls.
• What's Next: Abhishek will next feature in a three-match T20I series against Afghanistan in New Delhi, looking to bounce back after a lean recent patch.

Former Indian cricketer Yuvraj Singh marked the 26th birthday of his mentee Abhishek Sharma with a warm and playful tribute on social media on Friday. Yuvraj, who has played a significant role in shaping Abhishek's rise to international cricket, used the occasion to reflect on his mentee's growth both as a cricketer and as a person.

What Yuvraj Wrote

Sharing a cheeky video alongside his message, Yuvraj wrote on Instagram, "Sir Abhishek, it's your birthday. What an auspicious day. Love the person you have become - sharing and caring for those around you, and a leader! Always learning from your failures and willing to put in more hard work each time! Wishing you a year of runs and tons! Lots of love always." The message captured both admiration for Abhishek's cricketing journey and his personal development under Yuvraj's guidance.

A Lighthearted Bond on Display

The accompanying video showcased the playful dynamic between mentor and mentee, with Yuvraj seen instructing Abhishek not to play rash shots and humorously making him do sit-ups for his errors. In the clip, Yuvraj can be heard saying, "Bol mai pehli ball te lappa nahi maaranga," to which Abhishek responds, "Mai pehli ball te lift nahi maranga," a light-hearted exchange reflecting the coaching relationship that has clearly evolved into a close friendship.

A Shared Moment at Wimbledon

The video also included footage of Yuvraj, Abhishek and fellow cricketer Sanju Samson attending the Wimbledon event together from the stands. In an emotionally touching exchange, Yuvraj asked Abhishek, "Kya chahiye aapko?" to which Abhishek replied, "Aapka Aashirwaad" (your blessings), with Yuvraj responding simply, "Always," underscoring the depth of their bond beyond cricket.

Why It Matters: A Mentorship That Shaped India's T20I Approach

Yuvraj's mentorship has been credited with helping Abhishek rise to become the No. 1 T20I batter and reinvent India's T20I batting template, a significant contribution given the format's growing importance in modern international cricket. This kind of senior-junior mentorship relationship, made visible through such public tributes, reflects a broader trend of experienced Indian cricketers actively shaping the next generation of talent.

Abhishek's Rise in Numbers

Abhishek has firmly established himself as a fearsome presence in T20I cricket, having struck two centuries and 11 half-centuries across 55 innings. Notably, he holds the second-fastest century in T20Is for India, having smashed a hundred in just 37 balls against England last year. He trails only former captain Rohit Sharma on this list, with the 2024 T20 World Cup-winning skipper having scored a century in 35 balls against Sri Lanka back in 2017.

A Test Ahead: Bouncing Back From a Lean Patch

Abhishek will next be in action during the upcoming three-match T20I series against Afghanistan in New Delhi, where he will look to make the most of his opportunities following mixed outings against Ireland, England and Zimbabwe. Recent form has been a challenge for the left-handed batter, who has managed only one fifty in his last 10 innings and has been dismissed in single digits in his last four outings.

Industry Impact: The Weight of Public Mentorship in Cricket

Public gestures of mentorship like Yuvraj's carry symbolic weight in Indian cricket, often reinforcing a player's standing and providing a morale boost during periods of inconsistent form. For a young batter navigating a recent rough patch, this kind of visible endorsement from a senior figure can serve as both encouragement and a reminder of the long-term faith placed in his abilities.

The Bigger Picture

As Abhishek Sharma heads into the Afghanistan series carrying both immense promise and recent form concerns, Yuvraj's birthday message serves as a timely reminder of the bigger picture: a player who has already reshaped expectations for Indian T20I batting, now looking to rediscover consistency at the crease.

The Bottom Line

Yuvraj Singh's birthday tribute to Abhishek Sharma blends personal warmth with cricketing significance, celebrating a mentorship that has already left a mark on India's T20I approach. As Abhishek prepares for the Afghanistan series, the message doubles as both a birthday wish and a vote of confidence heading into a crucial phase of his career.

• Former India wicketkeeper-batter Deep Dasgupta says India should look beyond Jadeja in Test cricket.
• Jadeja finished the Sri Lanka series with eight wickets across four innings.
• Dasgupta identifies Washington Sundar as a potential long-term Jadeja replacement.
• He also backs young left-arm spinner Manav Suthar as a specialist option.
• Jadeja recently became only the fourth player to complete 4,000 Test runs and 350 wickets.

Indian cricket's ongoing conversation about long-term succession planning received a fresh, thoughtful contribution on Tuesday. Former India wicketkeeper-batter Deep Dasgupta, speaking on his YouTube channel following India's recent two-Test series in Sri Lanka, has called on the team management to begin actively preparing for a future beyond Ravindra Jadeja in Test cricket. Dasgupta argued that while Jadeja remains one of India's most decorated all-rounders, the veteran is no longer producing the same impact as a frontline spinner — and that building the next generation of bowling options is now genuinely urgent.

For fans of Indian Test cricket, and for anyone who has admired Jadeja's remarkable career, Dasgupta's comments arrive as part of a wider conversation that is both emotionally difficult and cricketing sensible.

The Central Argument

Dasgupta's core position, articulated on his YouTube channel, was direct and measured.

"Apart from Manav, our spinners didn't look as lethal as we expected. I'm not saying there is no ability. On such pitches, Jadeja has always been very destructive and lethal. I thought he would be crucial on the fifth day. He has been a great servant, but it's done now. He was not as accurate as he is. His action is very shoulder-dominant," Dasgupta said.

That "he has been a great servant, but it's done now" framing is significant. It combines genuine respect for Jadeja's contributions with a clear-eyed cricketing judgment about where the team's spin bowling requirements are heading.

The Sri Lanka Series Context

Dasgupta's remarks came in the specific context of India's recent two-Test series in Sri Lanka — where India's spin attack had been expected to play a decisive role given the traditional characteristics of subcontinental surfaces.

Jadeja, 37, finished the Sri Lanka series with eight wickets across four innings. However, Dasgupta felt India's spin attack struggled to consistently threaten the opposition on surfaces where the visitors would have expected their slower bowlers to dominate.

The former wicketkeeper particularly pointed to the closing stages of the second Test in Colombo. Despite Sri Lanka being made to follow on, India were unable to quickly break through their lower order as Sonal Dinusha produced a century and helped his side build a substantial lead.

That kind of extended lower-order resistance is exactly the situation where a frontline spinner is expected to close out matches decisively. When it doesn't happen, the questions about spin bowling effectiveness naturally start to build.

The Manav Suthar Exception

Interestingly, Dasgupta's assessment was not uniformly critical of India's spin bowling in the series. He specifically singled out young left-arm spinner Manav Suthar as the exception among the visitors' slower bowlers — suggesting that Suthar could develop into a specialist left-arm spin option for India going forward.

That kind of specific, differentiated feedback is genuinely useful. It doesn't reduce the situation to a blanket criticism of India's spin attack but instead identifies the specific players and roles where the team's current setup is working and where it isn't.

The No-Ball Concern

Dasgupta also touched on a specific technical concern that emerged during the Sri Lanka series — the repeated no-ball issues faced by India's spinners.

Saransh Jain, making his Test debut in Colombo, bowled four no-balls during the match. Jadeja also overstepped once. For a spin bowler, no-balls are a particularly avoidable form of self-inflicted damage — one that Dasgupta traced back to training habits.

"If you are not careful in the nets, it will happen. Even when I was playing, a lot of them would bowl from ahead and say it would not happen in the match, but they would repeat the same thing in the match. You need to avoid this in the nets. This issue is not new with Jadeja; it has only gotten worse," he added.

That's a valuable, technical piece of feedback rooted in Dasgupta's own playing experience. Good nets habits — bowling from behind the line consistently rather than treating practice as a lower-stakes environment — are what prevent no-ball problems from carrying into international matches.

The Successor Question: Washington Sundar

Perhaps the most constructive element of Dasgupta's assessment was his articulation of who should be developed as Jadeja's long-term replacement.

"We need the next line of spinners to be ready. We need Washington Sundar to be ready. He is absolutely the same as Jadeja. So when Jadeja decides to hang up his boots, you need someone who can do the same work. We have to make sure he is ready. It is an important slot," he said.

The comparison of Washington Sundar to Jadeja is a meaningful one. Both are left-hand batter, off-spin/left-arm spin bowling all-rounders who can genuinely contribute across departments. If Sundar can be developed to consistently deliver the kind of dual-discipline impact that Jadeja has offered India over the years, his emergence as a long-term successor would provide the team with important continuity.

The Suthar Angle

Beyond Sundar, Dasgupta also emphasised the value of nurturing Manav Suthar as a specialist left-arm spin option.

That two-track succession approach — a long-term all-rounder in Sundar plus a specialist spinner in Suthar — reflects mature cricketing thinking. It recognises that Jadeja's current role can be split into complementary specialisations rather than requiring a single perfect replacement.

For Indian cricket's selectors, coaches and support staff, that kind of framework offers a useful starting point for planning the transition.

Jadeja's Continued Legacy

Even amid the discussion about succession planning, Dasgupta's comments consistently reflected genuine respect for Jadeja's ongoing legacy.

Jadeja remains one of India's most accomplished Test all-rounders. He added another major milestone during the Sri Lanka series — becoming only the fourth player in Test history to complete the double of 4,000 runs and 350 wickets. That's a truly remarkable achievement, one that places him firmly in the pantheon of the greatest all-rounders in the history of Test cricket.

His contributions over more than a decade at the top of Indian cricket — batting rescues, wicket-taking spells, exceptional fielding, and moments of match-defining brilliance — have earned him a legacy that no succession conversation can diminish.

Why It Matters

Cricket is a sport where succession planning matters enormously. Great players do not stay at their peak forever, and the teams that manage transitions effectively tend to sustain competitive success across generations — while the teams that leave transitions too late often face difficult rebuilding periods when their stars finally step away.

For a team like India, which has enjoyed an era of exceptional depth and consistent success in Test cricket, thinking ahead about who will fill critical roles as senior players approach the end of their careers is exactly the kind of forward-looking planning that keeps a team competitive over the long term.

Dasgupta's comments contribute to that conversation in a thoughtful, cricketing-first way. He is not asking for Jadeja to be dropped tomorrow. He is asking for the team to actively develop the next line of spin options so that when Jadeja does eventually step away, the transition happens smoothly rather than painfully.

The Debate Around the Comments

Comments like Dasgupta's naturally generate some emotional response among fans of the players involved. That is completely understandable. Jadeja has been a beloved figure in Indian cricket for years, and his exceptional achievements — highlighted by his recent 4,000 runs / 350 wickets milestone — genuinely deserve continued celebration.

At the same time, healthy cricketing debate about team composition, succession planning and long-term strategy is exactly the kind of conversation that ultimately strengthens the sport. Every great player, including Jadeja himself, eventually reaches a point where transition planning becomes necessary — and having those conversations openly, respectfully and with cricketing rigour is part of how teams manage generational change effectively.

Institutional Impact

For India's Test cricket selectors and team management, Dasgupta's comments add another voice to the broader ongoing conversation about how the team's spin bowling department should evolve in the coming years. Selectors will inevitably be forming their own assessments based on match performances, training observations and long-term strategic planning.

For emerging spinners like Washington Sundar and Manav Suthar, senior voices like Dasgupta publicly identifying them as potential future cornerstones of Indian Test cricket represents meaningful validation of their potential — and adds to the professional expectations they will need to continue meeting through consistent performances.

Cricket Culture Impact

For India's broader cricket culture, the ongoing conversation about spin bowling succession reflects the maturity of the country's cricketing ecosystem. Teams that can produce top-quality debate about team strategy — grounded in cricketing analysis rather than personal attacks — tend to make better long-term decisions.

Dasgupta's comments, offered thoughtfully and with clear respect for Jadeja's legacy, are exactly the kind of cricketing contribution that adds value to the broader Indian cricket conversation.

The Bigger Picture

Deep Dasgupta's YouTube channel comments about Ravindra Jadeja are more than just a spot assessment of a single Test series. They form part of a much larger, genuinely important conversation about how India manages its Test cricket transition over the coming years.

Jadeja's remarkable legacy — 4,000 runs, 350 wickets, countless match-defining performances, and years of exemplary service — is not in question. What is being debated is how India can best prepare for the period beyond his central involvement in Test cricket, so that when that transition eventually comes, the team is positioned to continue its recent era of Test success without significant disruption.

For fans who love Jadeja as a player, and for cricketing observers who care about India's long-term Test performance, both perspectives can and should coexist. Genuine appreciation for what Jadeja has given Indian cricket, alongside genuine attention to what the team will need in the years ahead as generational transition unfolds.

For Washington Sundar and Manav Suthar in particular, being publicly identified as key parts of India's spin bowling future carries both opportunity and responsibility. The opportunity to become central figures in one of world cricket's most storied national teams. The responsibility to continue building their games with the discipline, skill and consistency such a role demands.

As Indian cricket now moves forward from the Sri Lanka series and toward the next chapters of its Test schedule, conversations like the one Dasgupta initiated on Tuesday will continue to shape the thinking of selectors, coaches, players and fans alike. And in that ongoing debate — respectful, cricketing-focused and forward-looking — lies exactly the kind of institutional thinking that keeps great teams great across generations.

For Ravindra Jadeja himself, whose contributions to Indian cricket have been genuinely extraordinary, the coming months and years will bring their own moments of clarity — about how his own Test career will continue to unfold, and how his eventual transition will shape the team he has served with such distinction for so many years.

And when that transition ultimately happens — on whatever timeline it happens — Indian cricket will have the enormous benefit of having had voices like Dasgupta's contributing thoughtful, respectful analysis to the conversation about what comes next. Because in the end, planning ahead for the future while still appreciating everything the present has offered is exactly the kind of balanced thinking that sustains great cricketing institutions across generations.

• Defending champions Kashi Rudras beat Meerut Mavericks by 56 runs in Match 29.
• Upendra Yadav's unbeaten 57 off 29 balls powered Kashi Rudras to 175/4.
• Kartik Yadav's spell of 3/12 earned him the Player of the Match award.
• Meerut Mavericks, Lucknow Falcons, Kashi Rudras and Noida Kings make the top four.
• All playoff matches shifted to Ekana Cricket Stadium, Lucknow from September 3.

Defending champions Kashi Rudras produced exactly the kind of statement performance that big tournaments demand from big teams on Tuesday. In a must-win encounter against the table-topping Meerut Mavericks in Match 29 of the UP T20 League 2026, the Rudras delivered a comprehensive 56-run victory at Kanpur's historic Green Park Stadium — sealing their playoff berth, finalising the top four of the tournament, and heading into the knockouts with genuine momentum on their side.

For fans of the UPT20 League, Tuesday's match was one of those beautiful evenings where cricket delivered everything it can — a captain's knock, an explosive finishing performance, a fiery bowling spell, a rare team hat-trick, and playoff drama coming full circle.

The Playoff Picture Is Set

Tuesday's result finalised the playoff picture for the 2026 season.

Meerut Mavericks retain the top spot with 15 points. Lucknow Falcons follow in second place with 13 points. Kashi Rudras and Noida Kings complete the top four, finishing third and fourth respectively with 10 points each.

Gaur Gorakhpur Lions and Kanpur Superstars, meanwhile, have been officially eliminated from the tournament — bringing an end to their respective 2026 campaigns.

The Toss and the Decision

Knowing a win was absolutely necessary to keep his team alive in the tournament, Kashi Rudras skipper Karan Sharma won the toss and confidently opted to bat first. It was exactly the kind of decisive, no-hesitation move that a defending champion captain needed to make.

His opening pair immediately vindicated the decision. Vaibhav Jaiswal and Karan Sharma put together a solid 75-run stand off 51 balls — the kind of platform-building partnership that gives a T20 innings the freedom to accelerate later.

Vaibhav Jaiswal contributed a brisk 33 off 24 deliveries, playing his role with clean stroke play. Skipper Karan Sharma anchored the innings beautifully with a brilliant 57 off 40 balls, setting a robust foundation for the middle and lower order to build on.

Upendra Yadav's Late Assault

Then came the innings that changed the shape of the match.

Wicketkeeper-batter Upendra Yadav took charge in the late overs and unleashed a devastating assault on the Meerut bowling attack. Yadav smashed an unbeaten 57 off just 29 deliveries, laced with four boundaries and five massive sixes. His explosive finishing performance took the innings from steady to imposing — powering the Kashi Rudras to a total of 175/4 in their 20 overs.

That's the kind of late-innings acceleration that turns a competitive total into a match-winning one. And it gave Kashi Rudras exactly the kind of scoreboard pressure they needed to defend under lights.

The Meerut Chase Starts to Crumble Immediately

Faced with a challenging target of 176, the Meerut Mavericks' chase stumbled at the very first hurdle. Star opener Swastik Chikara fell for a four-ball duck to Kartik Yadav — an early dismissal that set the tone for what was to follow.

Kartik Yadav then delivered one of the most decisive bowling spells of the tournament. His figures of 3/12 in four overs suffocated the Meerut top order and reduced them to 70/5 in 13 overs — a scoreline from which recovery was going to be extremely difficult against a defending champion side that knew exactly how to close out matches.

For his phenomenal spell that effectively derailed the chase, Kartik Yadav was rightfully named the Player of the Match.

The Rajput Brothers' Impact

Divyansh Rajput did try to stabilise the innings, battling his way to a gritty 39 off 31 balls. But even his resistance ended in an unfortunate manner — dismissed hit-wicket by Rishabh Rajput on the fifth ball of the 16th over.

On the very next delivery, Rishabh dismissed Yash Garg, ending the over with Meerut needing 70 runs from 24 balls with just three wickets in hand. It was, by any measure, an almost impossible situation.

The Team Hat-Trick Moment

Then came the moment of drama that will be talked about long after this match is over.

On the first ball of the 17th over, Impact Player Sangam Singh struck immediately — completing a spectacular team hat-trick that spanned across the two overs. Team hat-tricks are rare and memorable events in cricket. They happen when three consecutive dismissals across the same passage of play are shared by different bowlers of the same team.

In this case, the sequence of Rishabh Rajput dismissing Divyansh Rajput hit-wicket, Rishabh Rajput dismissing Yash Garg on the very next ball, and Sangam Singh striking on the first ball of the next over came together to create exactly that rare, thrilling moment.

The Final Wickets

The Meerut Mavericks were eventually bundled out for 119 in 19.2 overs — sealing a comprehensive 56-run victory for the Kashi Rudras.

Rishabh Rajput finished with excellent figures of 3/13, while Atal Bihari Vipin Rai chipped in with two wickets. Together, the Kashi Rudras bowling attack delivered exactly the kind of disciplined, wicket-taking performance that a defending champion side needs at the sharp end of a tournament.

The Momentum Shift

The result gives the Kashi Rudras back-to-back wins and immense momentum heading into the knockouts. For a defending champion side, that kind of late-league surge in form is exactly what you want going into playoff cricket — where confidence, momentum and belief often matter as much as tactical planning.

For the Meerut Mavericks, on the other hand, the loss comes as their second consecutive defeat — meaning they will need to regroup quickly ahead of Qualifier 1. However, their top-of-the-table finish gives them the crucial advantage of getting two shots at the final through the qualifier route.

Playoffs Shifted to Lucknow

With the league stage now concluded, the tournament enters its decisive playoff phase. However, due to persistent rain and wet outfield conditions in Kanpur, all playoff matches have been officially shifted to the Bharat Ratna Shri Atal Bihari Vajpayee Ekana Cricket Stadium in Lucknow.

The Ekana Stadium — one of India's finest modern cricket venues — will now host the tournament's biggest matches.

The Playoffs Schedule

September 3

• Qualifier 1: Meerut Mavericks vs Lucknow Falcons, 3:00 PM IST
• Eliminator: Kashi Rudras vs Noida Kings, 7:30 PM IST

September 4

• Qualifier 2: Loser of Qualifier 1 vs Winner of Eliminator, 7:30 PM IST

September 6

• Final: Winner of Qualifier 1 vs Winner of Qualifier 2, 7:30 PM IST

That's a beautifully structured playoff schedule — offering fans multiple high-stakes matches across the next few days, with the final scheduled for September 6.

Why It Matters

State-level T20 leagues like the UPT20 League play a critical role in India's cricketing ecosystem. They provide platforms where regional talent gets to test itself against experienced professionals, where new stars emerge into wider visibility, and where cricketing infrastructure across smaller cities gets used, celebrated and strengthened.

For Uttar Pradesh — one of India's most populous and cricket-passionate states — the UPT20 League continues to serve as a vital talent identification and development platform. Every season adds new names to the state's cricketing conversation.

The Player Performances That Stand Out

Tuesday's match delivered several standout individual performances worth remembering.

Karan Sharma's captain's knock of 57 off 40 balls provided leadership from the front. Upendra Yadav's blazing 57 off 29 balls demonstrated exactly the kind of finishing quality that wins T20 matches. Kartik Yadav's 3/12 spell showcased how disciplined new-ball bowling can define the shape of a T20 chase. Rishabh Rajput's 3/13 completed the bowling picture beautifully. And the rare team hat-trick moment involving Rishabh and Sangam Singh added a spectacular piece of tournament history.

Together, these performances made Tuesday's match one of the most memorable of the 2026 season.

Institutional and Cricketing Impact

For the UPT20 League as an institution, delivering another well-executed season culminating in a thrilling playoff phase adds to the credibility of the tournament and its long-term potential. For Uttar Pradesh cricket, every meaningful season deepens the state's cricketing depth and creates new pathways for young players to progress.

For India's broader domestic T20 ecosystem, state-level leagues like the UPT20 continue to complement the IPL and other national tournaments by providing valuable additional match exposure to hundreds of aspiring cricketers.

The Bigger Picture

Match 29 of the UPT20 League 2026 will be remembered for several reasons. A defending champion side rising to the occasion in a must-win game. A captain leading from the front. A wicketkeeper-batter delivering an explosive finish. A young bowler earning the Player of the Match honour with a decisive spell. And a rare team hat-trick moment adding a spectacular flourish to the day.

For Kashi Rudras, the coming days now offer a shot at defending their title — but they will need to negotiate the Eliminator against a determined Noida Kings side first. For Meerut Mavericks, the twin advantage of a top finish and Qualifier 1 access still keeps them extremely well-placed in the tournament, despite two consecutive losses.

For Lucknow Falcons, second place gives them exactly the platform they needed. For Noida Kings, the Eliminator opportunity offers a chance to make a deep playoff run.

As all four playoff-bound teams now travel to Lucknow's Ekana Cricket Stadium, the coming few days promise some of the most exciting cricket of the entire UPT20 League 2026 season. September 3, September 4 and September 6 will decide who ends the tournament with the trophy.

And on Tuesday night, thanks to a statement performance that combined batting authority, bowling brilliance and a rare team hat-trick, Kashi Rudras made one thing crystal clear — the defending champions have not just qualified for the playoffs. They have arrived in them, on form, with momentum, and with intent.

• All six franchises in the Dehradun T20 League 2026 have confirmed their squads for the tournament.
• The league runs from September 2 to 9, with matches at Abhimanyu Cricket Academy.
• Uttarakhand Cabinet Minister Subodh Uniyal attended the players' draft as chief guest.
• Former BCCI Vice-President Mahim Verma was the Guest of Honour at the event.
• Franchises include Selaqui Strikers, Doiwala Kings, Rishikesh Dragons, Mussoorie Thunder, Vikasnagar Dhamaka and Herbertpur Knightriders.

Uttarakhand cricket is heading into one of its most exciting weeks of the year. All six franchises in the Dehradun T20 League 2026 have officially confirmed their squads ahead of the tournament opener on September 2. Featuring a compelling mix of IPL and domestic circuit players sharing dressing rooms with promising Uttarakhand youngsters, the league is once again positioning itself as one of the most significant cricket development platforms in the state.

For young cricketers dreaming of the national stage, the coming eight days at the Abhimanyu Cricket Academy could well be career-defining.

The Tournament at a Glance

The Dehradun T20 League 2026 will run from September 2 to 9, with all matches to be played at the Abhimanyu Cricket Academy. The compact eight-day format ensures a fast-paced, intense cricketing experience — one that will keep fans and players engaged from the opening ball to the final delivery.

The Government's Backing

The tournament received strong endorsement from the Uttarakhand state government, with Cabinet Minister Subodh Uniyal attending the players' draft as chief guest. Speaking at the event, he underlined the state's confidence in its cricketing talent pool.

"There is no shortage of talent in Uttarakhand. The Dehradun T20 League is providing our young players with a platform where they can prove themselves and make their mark at the national level. The state government is always ready to support sports and athletes. I am confident that this league will prove to be a significant step forward for cricket in Uttarakhand," Uniyal said.

That kind of clear political and administrative support gives the league significant institutional backing — the kind that helps sustain talent-development ecosystems over the long term.

A Pathway for Local Cricketers

Former BCCI Vice-President Mahim Verma, who attended the event as the Guest of Honour, highlighted the developmental value of the league for local players.

"This league is not just a tournament, but a major opportunity for our local cricketers to progress. When young players from Uttarakhand share the dressing room with experienced captains and players from the IPL and domestic cricket, their confidence and standard of cricket will improve significantly," he said.

That framing captures exactly what makes leagues like the Dehradun T20 League so valuable. Talent development happens most effectively when young players get to train alongside, learn from and compete against more experienced professionals. Every dressing room conversation, every warm-up session, every match strategy discussion becomes a learning opportunity.

World-Class Preparation Behind the Scenes

Dehradun T20 League CEO Navneet Mishra shared insights into the preparations that have gone into ensuring the tournament runs smoothly.

"We have left no stone unturned in providing world-class facilities and excellent playing conditions to the players. We aim to create an environment where every player can freely express themselves and perform at their best. Fans can look forward to exciting cricket over the course of eight days," he said.

That focus on facilities and playing conditions reflects a mature understanding of what modern domestic T20 cricket requires. Great cricket happens when great infrastructure meets great talent.

The Six Franchises and Their Squads

Ahead of the tournament, all six franchises have confirmed their playing squads for the 2026 edition.

Selaqui Strikers are led by captain Piyush Joshi. The squad includes Vijay Sharma, Siddharth Gupta, Aryan Sharma, Abhay Kshetri, Ankit Mahori, Nikhil Harsh, Sanskar Rawat, Shivansh Gautam, Naman Sharma, Nishu Patel, Abhyuday Bhatnagar, Sameer Rai, Keshav Kumar Rana, Priyank Singh, Aryan Kapoor, Nitish Joshi, Kshitij Negi, Jitendra Pal, Prajwal and Binay Singh.

Doiwala Kings are captained by TNR Mohit. The squad features Aasman Gulati, Avneesh Sudha, Divyanshu Yadav, Sarang Rawat, Mukesh Gupta, Tanishq Khatri, Uday Sharma, Aksh Saini, Adi Khan, Dhruv Pratap Singh, Vishu Kashyap, Abhaydeep, Ajay Yadav, Preet Singh Sirohi, Shiv Pratap Singh, Shivanshu Pandey and Shubham Singh.

Rishikesh Dragons are led by Yuvraj Chaudhary. The squad includes Saurabh Rawat, Ravinder Negi, Aarav Mahajan, Aviral Mishra, Aditya Sethi, Kamal Singh, Harjeet Singh, Ishagr Jaguri, Viplabh Gautam Nautiyal, Harshvardhan Singh, Sachin Chauhan, Rajdeep Singh, Rahul Chauhan, Shiva Soni, Mukul Nagar, Tejender Singh, Vishal Joshi, Devendra Dhariyal and Priyanshu Fartiyal.

Mussoorie Thunder are captained by Akash Madhwal, one of the most exciting names to feature in the tournament given his IPL background. The squad features Aryan Garg, Neeraj Rathore, Purvansh Dhruv, Lakshya Raichandani, Akhil Singh Rawat, Harsh Patwal, Anmol Singh, Allen Chetan, Rakshit Rohi, Atul Saini, Deepesh Singh, Shubham Nainwal, Arnav Bansal, Jonty Rawat, Ayush Chauhan, Parghi Deepal Haribhai, Priyanshu Rawat, Aarav Lokesh Singh and Aryan Godiyal.

Vikasnagar Dhamaka are led by captain Kunal Chandela. The squad includes Rohit Danu, Vinay Aswal, Shashwat Dangwal, Vishal Kashyap, Janmajay Joshi, Rohit Singh Dangwal, Sagar Rawat, Goldie Malik, Gaurav Negi, Ansh Joshi, Vishal Dangwal, Naveen Rana, Hitesh Naula, Vishal Rawat, Rahul Dev Nath, Abhishek Singh, Ajay Joshi, Prashant Chauhan and Gopal Singh.

Herbertpur Knightriders are captained by J. Suchith. The squad features Ashar Khan, Ayush Deshwal, Nikhil Pundir, Devendra Bohra, Samad Bhatt, Priyanshu Badswal, Naveen Kumar, Prateek Pandey, Srijan Singh Rawat, Kunal Veer Singh, Gaurav Chaudhary, Sachin Yadav, Mohd. Zaid, Deepak Deshwal, Tushar Bachhas, Veer Pratap Singh, Riansh Rawat, Mohd. Uzair Malik, Varnit Singh and Akshay Thapli.

Why It Matters

Domestic T20 leagues like the Dehradun T20 League play an increasingly important role in India's cricketing ecosystem. They provide platforms where young state-level players can showcase their talent, gain competitive experience against senior professionals, and get noticed by selectors, coaches and IPL franchise talent scouts.

Every performance in leagues like this can potentially change a young cricketer's trajectory — whether by earning a state selection, catching the eye of a scout, or building the confidence needed to push into higher levels of the sport.

For Uttarakhand specifically, which has been steadily building its presence in domestic Indian cricket, the Dehradun T20 League represents a critical part of the state's ongoing effort to strengthen its cricket infrastructure and talent pipeline.

The Value of Shared Dressing Rooms

The most valuable structural feature of leagues like this is often the mixing of experienced professionals with emerging young players. When a talented but unproven youngster from Uttarakhand shares a dressing room with an IPL cricketer, a domestic circuit veteran or an experienced captain, they absorb learnings that no coaching manual can fully capture.

Match strategy conversations. Approach to pressure situations. Recovery and nutrition habits. Mental preparation routines. All of it flows naturally in a competitive dressing room environment.

Mahim Verma's observation about the developmental power of these shared dressing rooms is exactly right. Cricket ecosystems grow when experience is transferred not just through structured coaching but through everyday professional interaction.

Institutional and Cricketing Impact

For the Uttarakhand Cricket Association and the state's cricketing ecosystem, the smooth execution of another edition of the Dehradun T20 League strengthens the credibility of the state as a serious cricketing region. It also creates opportunities for the association to identify and support the next generation of cricketers who might one day represent Uttarakhand at the Ranji Trophy, IPL and even national level.

For India's broader cricketing landscape, well-run state-level T20 leagues contribute meaningfully to the depth of talent available in the country. Every league adds to the pool of match-ready players — and every match creates opportunities for undiscovered talent to make its mark.

Cultural and Community Impact

Beyond the cricketing dimensions, tournaments like the Dehradun T20 League also carry significant cultural and community value. They give local fans opportunities to watch high-quality cricket in their own backyard, generate local pride, and create heroes that young children in the state can aspire to.

For fans across Uttarakhand, the coming eight days will bring memorable evenings of cricket — filled with local heroes, professional stars and the shared joy of competitive sport played on home soil.

The Bigger Picture

The Dehradun T20 League 2026 is set to bring together everything that makes state-level T20 cricket in India so exciting — a strong governance framework, quality playing infrastructure, a mix of experienced and emerging talent, and clear institutional support from both the state government and cricket administrators.

For the young cricketers taking the field from September 2 onwards, this is more than an eight-day tournament. It is an opportunity to prove themselves, learn from the best, and take one more step toward their bigger cricketing dreams. For the experienced professionals joining the league, it is a chance to give back to the sport by mentoring, inspiring and competing alongside the next generation.

As all six franchises finalise their preparations and Abhimanyu Cricket Academy readies itself for the opening match, one thing is clear. Cricket in Uttarakhand is once again heading into a phase of visibility, activity and excitement. And when the first ball is bowled on September 2, the state's cricketing future will step, once again, one meaningful match closer to the goals it continues to reach for.

• Indian middle and long-distance athletes are training at SAI's NCOE in Bengaluru ahead of Asian Games 2026.
• The camp uses a specialised smart track that captures real-time performance data.
• The camp features Avinash Sable, Parul Chaudhary, Krishan Kumar, Manju Rani, Priyanka and others.
• The 73-member Indian athletics contingent will compete at Aichi-Nagoya from September 19 to October 4.
• The smart track was also used by CWG 2026 para-athletics medalists Dilip Mahadu Gavit and Mohammed Basil.

With the Asian Games 2026 just around the corner, India's top athletes have shifted into their highest preparation gear. And at the heart of that preparation sits an unusual advantage — a specialised 'smart track' at the Sports Authority of India's (SAI) National Centre of Excellence (NCOE) in Bengaluru, one of a kind in India. The centre is currently hosting a critical national coaching camp for the country's middle and long-distance runners, blending cutting-edge sports technology with world-class coaching expertise in the final stretch before the Aichi-Nagoya Games.

For India's medal hopefuls, this camp represents exactly the kind of scientifically supported preparation environment that global athletic performance now demands.

The Camp That's Powering India's Preparation

The Sports Authority of India's National Centre of Excellence in Bengaluru has emerged as a crucial preparation base for India's middle and long-distance runners heading to the Asian Games 2026.

A national coaching camp is currently underway at the SAI centre, scheduled to run until September 8. The camp — sanctioned under the Target Olympic Podium Scheme (TOPS) — features some of India's most exciting athletics talents.

Among those training at the camp are 800m runner Krishan Kumar, steeplechase star Avinash Sable, high jumpers Aadarsh Ram and Supriya B, decathlete Thowfeeq N, middle and long-distance runner Parul Chaudhary, and race walkers Manju Rani and Priyanka.

All eight are part of the approved 73-member Indian athletics contingent (35 men and 38 women) heading to the Asian Games — with the marquee event scheduled to be held in Aichi-Nagoya from September 19 to October 4.

The 'Smart Track' Advantage

Beyond the conventional camp infrastructure, athletes in Bengaluru have access to a genuinely unique advantage — a specialised smart track that allows coaches to capture real-time performance data during training.

"This is one of a kind in India," said Suresh Kumar, Coach (Athletics) at SAI NCOE Bengaluru, explaining the technology embedded into the track. "So what happens is when the athlete runs, we get the real-time speed data. We get the split timings wherever the gates are placed, then the total timing we get, as well as the stride length and the stride frequency. All this data is captured in real time. This helps a lot for the athletes in the training," Kumar was quoted as saying by SAI Media.

That level of data granularity — real-time speed, split times, stride length, stride frequency — is exactly the kind of information that separates modern elite training environments from traditional ones. Every one of those data points can help an athlete fine-tune their technique, optimise their race strategy and identify small improvements that can matter enormously at the international level.

A Track With Proven Champions

The smart track's credibility is anchored in real, recent results. It was used extensively for training by Commonwealth Games 2026 para-athletics medalists Dilip Mahadu Gavit and Mohammed Basil — ahead of the Glasgow Games.

The duo went on to finish in the top two positions in the men's 100m T47 category at CWG 2026, winning gold and silver medals respectively. That kind of tangible medal-level outcome linked to training at the smart track adds serious weight to its value as a preparation tool.

Electronic Timing at Training Level

For athletes, the ability to replicate electronic timing conditions during training is another meaningful advantage. It gives them the closest possible experience to what they will encounter in high-stakes competitions.

"The athletes are very happy because they get to understand and find out the real data based on the electronic timing, not just during training but in any competitions that take place here," Kumar said.

That's a critical distinction. Training with electronic timing accuracy allows athletes to build confidence in their times, calibrate their pacing, and mentally prepare for competition-level precision — all before they set foot on the actual competition track.

The Technology Behind the Track

The smart track was installed at the Bengaluru centre in 2024 and has since been used extensively by elite athletes training at the facility. Its timing gates are positioned both on the straight and around the curve, allowing coaches to analyse different phases of a run.

An accompanying app enables the data to be accessed immediately for post-run analysis — turning every training session into a rich, data-driven learning opportunity.

Notably, the technology has been designed to work alongside existing athletics infrastructure rather than requiring a completely new track. According to Kumar, the system can be installed on any existing synthetic track by embedding the magnetic gates beneath the surface — with installation possible within a single day.

That scalability is a significant point. If proven successful at Bengaluru, similar smart tracks could potentially be installed at other SAI centres across the country — democratising access to high-tech training environments for athletes nationwide.

A Camp Backed by Elite Coaching

The pre-Asian Games camp at SAI Bengaluru is combining high-level coaching, sports science and technology in an integrated preparation environment. The camp includes specialised coaches such as race-walking coach Ronald Gerd Weigel, jumps coach Sahana Kumari Nagaraj Gobbargumpi, along with coach Kalyan Chaudhary and masseuse Meena Sagar Ugale.

That kind of specialised coaching structure — matched to the specific event categories being trained — reflects the maturity of India's current elite sports preparation model.

Details Coaches Couldn't Capture Before

The smart track also gives coaches information that would have been extremely difficult, if not impossible, to capture manually during a sprint.

"You even get the split timing because, for a sprint coach, if I'm at the finish line or like 40m or 50m away from when the athlete is starting, we will be able to get the electronic split time," Kumar explained.

That's a game-changer for sprint coaches. In the past, coaches would have to rely on visual estimation, handheld stopwatches or portable timing setups that couldn't match the accuracy of embedded electronic timing. Now, every phase of a run can be analysed with precision.

Weather-Proof Training

Another meaningful advantage of the embedded magnetic timing gates is that they eliminate weather-related training disruptions. Unlike conventional portable timing equipment, the smart track's technology remains embedded in the surface — meaning it can be used in rain or dusty conditions.

"So with this, we don't have to worry about the weather. We don't have to worry about the wear and tear, nothing. It's just like it's already there. You just need to run over in between that. The real-time data is always available," Kumar added.

For a national preparation camp on a tight countdown to a major international event, weather-proof training reliability is an operational advantage that shouldn't be underestimated.

Why It Matters

The Asian Games are one of the most important multi-sport events on India's international sporting calendar. Every medal won at the Asian Games not only elevates individual athletes but also contributes to India's overall standing in the global sports ecosystem — building the pipeline of experience, ambition and confidence that will eventually shape performances at Olympic Games and world championships.

The kind of scientifically supported preparation environment now being offered at SAI Bengaluru reflects exactly the direction India's elite sports ecosystem needs to move in. Global sporting powerhouses have long relied on data-driven training, real-time performance analytics, and highly specialised coaching structures. India is now steadily building the same kind of infrastructure — and the Bengaluru smart track is a strong example of that direction.

Athlete Impact

For the athletes at the camp — from Avinash Sable in steeplechase to Parul Chaudhary in middle and long-distance running to the race walkers Manju Rani and Priyanka — the smart track provides a direct performance advantage. Every session, every split, every stride is captured, analysed and refined.

That kind of continuous, data-supported iteration is what modern high-performance sport is built on. It allows athletes to arrive at competitions with a deeper self-knowledge, a stronger sense of race pacing, and a clearer understanding of their own performance parameters.

Institutional and Sports Ecosystem Impact

For the Sports Authority of India and India's broader athletics ecosystem, the smart track at Bengaluru is more than a piece of equipment. It is a model — one that demonstrates how technology, coaching and infrastructure can be integrated to serve elite performance.

If the model succeeds at scale — through Asian Games medals, world championship performances, and eventually Olympic outcomes — it will likely inspire similar investments at other SAI centres across the country.

The Bigger Picture

India's preparation for the Asian Games 2026 in Aichi-Nagoya is unfolding at a level of technological sophistication that would have been almost unimaginable a decade ago. Real-time performance data. Weather-proof electronic timing. World-class specialist coaches. Scientific race analysis. And a preparation base that has already produced Commonwealth Games medalists.

For India's athletes, the tools available today are among the best they have ever had access to. The infrastructure is world-class. The coaching is elite. The technology is cutting-edge. And the ambition is clear.

As the countdown to Aichi-Nagoya continues, the athletes training at SAI Bengaluru will carry with them not just their years of hard work but also the confidence that comes from being backed by one of India's most technologically advanced preparation environments.

When the Indian contingent takes to the track and field in Japan from September 19, the story won't just be about medals won or personal bests broken. It will be a story about how far India has come in building the systems, science and support structures required to compete at the highest levels of world sport. And the smart track at SAI Bengaluru will be quietly proud of the part it played in preparing them for that moment.

• South Delhi Superstarz have clinched the Delhi Premier League 2026 title with a 7-wicket win over Central Delhi Kings.
• Co-owner Shikhar Dhawan joined the players for celebrations and took a lap of honour at Arun Jaitley Stadium.
• Ankit Dabas and Anmol Sharma scored 62 runs each in the successful chase of 183.
• The women's team won DPL 2025, giving the franchise back-to-back title success across formats.
• The Superstarz women's team also plays the DPL final on Wednesday this week.

Former India cricketer Shikhar Dhawan had one of those unforgettable Sundays every co-owner in franchise cricket dreams of. His side, the South Delhi Superstarz, clinched the Delhi Premier League (DPL) 2026 title at the Arun Jaitley Stadium — and Dhawan was right there in the middle of it, celebrating with players, taking a lap of honour, and later reflecting on what the moment truly meant to him.

The Final: A Commanding Performance

South Delhi Superstarz produced a truly commanding performance in the final, beating Central Delhi Kings by seven wickets to lift the DPL 2026 trophy. Chasing 183, the Superstarz sealed victory with 10 balls to spare — a chase built on the calm, composed batting of Ankit Dabas and Anmol Sharma, both of whom scored 62 runs each.

That kind of dominant chase in a title decider is exactly the sort of performance that defines champion sides — batting under pressure, absorbing the moment, and finishing the job with genuine authority.

Dhawan's Reaction: 'A Moment I'll Carry With Me'

Sharing his thoughts in an Instagram post after the victory, Dhawan spoke about what the moment meant to him personally.

"Watching South Delhi Superstarz become Delhi Premier League champions, right there at the final, was a moment I'll carry with me," he wrote.

That framing — the moment as something to carry, not just a milestone to celebrate — captured the emotional connection Dhawan clearly feels with the franchise he co-owns.

Dhawan, Chairman of Da One Group and Founder of the Shikhar Dhawan Foundation, co-owns the South Delhi Superstarz through Da One Sports. The former India opener was present at the Arun Jaitley Stadium for the final and joined the players in celebrating their title-winning performance.

The Franchise's Growing Legacy

The DPL 2026 title triumph added another significant chapter to what is quickly becoming one of the DPL's most consistent franchise stories. Both the men's and women's teams of the South Delhi Superstarz have now enjoyed title success across successive editions of the tournament — the women's team won the DPL in 2025, and the men's side has followed up with the 2026 crown.

That kind of back-to-back franchise success — across both formats — reflects strong ownership vision, thoughtful team building, and a genuine investment in the sport at multiple levels.

The Women's Team Set for the Final

Adding to the excitement, the franchise's women's team is also set to feature in the final of the ongoing DPL season on Wednesday. A win there would create a rare and remarkable moment — both the men's and women's Superstarz teams lifting DPL titles in the same season.

For a franchise, few achievements match that kind of dual-format success. It signals that the ownership's investment isn't concentrated on one team but is genuinely spread across the entire cricketing structure.

Dhawan on What Really Matters

While the trophies are meaningful, Dhawan made it clear that the real significance of the title extends beyond silverware. In his Instagram post, he emphasised the opportunities that leagues like the DPL provide to young cricketers.

"What excites me most isn't just the trophies. It's seeing young cricketers get a platform, take responsibility, play without fear and discover what they are capable of," he said.

That statement carries genuine weight. Domestic T20 leagues in India — DPL, UPT20 and others — are increasingly serving as important launchpads for talent that might otherwise not get high-visibility platforms. Ownership groups that see themselves as builders of that talent pipeline, not just as commercial franchise operators, are quietly reshaping the country's cricketing ecosystem from the ground up.

The Fan Moment After the Final

After the final, Dhawan joined the South Delhi Superstarz players in their celebrations before taking a lap of honour around the Arun Jaitley Stadium. Fans gathered around the former India opener as he signed autographs and distributed South Delhi Superstarz jerseys among spectators — the kind of warm, unfiltered post-match moment that reminds everyone why cricket connects so deeply with its audiences in India.

Dhawan's Broader Sports Philosophy

Beyond his DPL involvement, Dhawan has been steadily expanding his footprint in Indian sports since transitioning from his active playing career. Through Da One Sports, he supports academies and sporting programmes, including a High Performance Centre in Gwalior and initiatives in regions such as Jammu and Kashmir.

That kind of holistic sports involvement — franchise ownership, academies, high-performance training and regional grassroots programmes — reflects a genuine long-term commitment to Indian cricket rather than a purely brand-driven engagement.

Recognising the Team Effort

Dhawan also used his Instagram post to thank the entire South Delhi Superstarz team ecosystem.

"Congratulations to every player, coach and member of the Superstarz family," Dhawan wrote. "You have shown what happens when talent meets opportunity, belief and hard work."

That message of recognition — spread across players, coaches and the entire support system — reflects an ownership philosophy that values every layer of team-building, not just the on-field heroes.

Why It Matters

Leagues like the DPL play an important role in developing India's cricketing depth. They provide platforms for uncapped talent, opportunities for coaches and staff to gain experience with structured franchise setups, and exposure to competitive, high-pressure cricket for players who may not yet be in national reckoning.

When a well-known former international cricketer like Shikhar Dhawan invests in a franchise, brings visibility to its games, and celebrates its wins with genuine warmth, it lifts the entire perceived value of the league — attracting more fans, better sponsors, and more talented young players.

Industry Impact

For India's expanding domestic franchise cricket ecosystem, the growing success of leagues like the DPL and franchises like South Delhi Superstarz is a strong signal. It shows that domestic leagues, if backed by serious ownership and thoughtful operational structures, can command genuine fan interest, sponsor engagement and player commitment.

For young cricketers watching from every corner of the country, it also signals that the road to bigger opportunities — including IPL contracts and potentially international selection — passes through leagues like these, where every performance is watched, every match matters, and every good outing can shift a career trajectory.

The Bigger Picture

South Delhi Superstarz's DPL 2026 title is more than a franchise triumph. It is another chapter in a broader story — one where thoughtful ownership, quality players, strong coaching and passionate fan support are quietly building the depth of Indian cricket beyond the international spotlight.

For Shikhar Dhawan, Sunday's celebration at Arun Jaitley Stadium was a full-circle moment. From India opener to franchise co-owner. From player to enabler. From cricketer to cricket-builder. His lap of honour around the ground, jerseys handed to fans, autographs signed with players cheering behind him — all of it reflected an ownership vision powered by genuine love for the game.

And with the women's team set to play the final on Wednesday, the South Delhi Superstarz story may just be getting started. For Dhawan and his co-owners at Da One Sports, this DPL 2026 title is not the end goal. It is proof of concept — proof that when talent meets opportunity, belief and hard work, championship trophies are just the beginning of what a franchise can build.

• Shiva Singh took a hat-trick and a five-wicket haul as Noida Kings stormed into UPT20 playoffs.
• The must-win game against unbeaten Meerut Mavericks was truncated to five overs per side due to rain.
• Meerut were restricted to 33/7; Noida chased down the target in 3.3 overs.
• Shiva credited a phone call from his father, ex-Ranji player Ajit Singh, for his inspired performance.
• He is a 2018 U19 World Cup winner alongside Prithvi Shaw, Shubman Gill and Arshdeep Singh.

Sometimes, the biggest performances in T20 cricket are set in motion long before the toss — with a single phone call, a father's words, and a mind finally at peace. That's exactly what unfolded on Sunday as left-arm finger spinner Shiva Singh delivered one of the most stunning individual performances of the UPT20 League fourth season, single-handedly powering Noida Kings into the playoffs with a sensational hat-trick and a five-wicket haul in a rain-shortened, must-win clash against the previously unbeaten Meerut Mavericks.

The Stage: Do or Die for Noida

Coming into their final league stage match, Noida Kings knew what was at stake. A win was non-negotiable — anything less would end their season. Their opponents were Meerut Mavericks, an unbeaten side riding high on confidence throughout the tournament.

Then the rain arrived. The fixture was truncated to a five-over shoot-off — the kind of shortened format that traditionally favours batters and puts bowlers under enormous pressure. With Meerut batting first, Noida were in for a tough day.

Or so it seemed.

The Hat-Trick That Turned the Match

Shiva Singh, son of former Ranji Trophy player Ajit Singh, walked into the situation and turned it upside down. Bowling with clarity and control, the left-arm spinner ripped through the Meerut batting order — picking up a hat-trick as part of a five-wicket haul that restricted the previously unbeaten side to a shockingly low total of 33/7.

That level of performance in a five-over T20 shoot-off is almost unheard of. And it set the platform Noida needed. The Kings chased down the target comfortably in just 3.3 overs — sealing their playoff qualification in emphatic style.

The Phone Call That Changed Everything

After the game, Shiva revealed the deeply personal story behind his match-winning performance — one rooted not in tactics or preparation but in a simple conversation with his father.

"Actually, I hadn't spoken to my dad for the first nine matches," Shiva revealed after the game. "Today, he called me up and said, 'It's the last league game, just play the way you always do. It's on you now; you are the main player of the team. Just perform the way you do in local matches.' That really helped me. Mentally, I was taking a lot of pressure before this, but hopefully, it turned out to be a great day."

That's a beautifully human insight into what elite cricket often looks like beneath the surface. Behind the strategy meetings, the analytics and the training routines sits the emotional weight of a young cricketer battling his own pressure — and sometimes, the release comes from something as timeless as a father's reassurance.

The Plan for a Five-Over Match

Speaking about his approach to bowling in a truncated match, Shiva laid out a smart, disciplined mindset — one that clearly served him well.

"The planning is quite simple," Shiva explained when asked about his approach to the shortened game. "Since it's a short match, you have to look at the batsman, the wicket, and the conditions, and bowl accordingly. You have to think a bit differently from your usual big-match plans. You have to be a bit smarter. My only plan was not to concede boundaries."

That single line — "my only plan was not to concede boundaries" — is bowling economy philosophy distilled into its purest form. In a five-over game where batters are looking to attack from ball one, denying boundaries is often the only strategy that works. Shiva executed it with precision.

The U19 World Cup Legacy

Shiva Singh's story carries an extra layer of resonance for Indian cricket fans. He was part of India's 2018 U19 World Cup-winning squad — a legendary batch that also featured Prithvi Shaw as captain, Shubman Gill, and Arshdeep Singh. Since then, Gill has become India's captain in Tests and ODIs, while Arshdeep has become a regular member of the senior international side.

Shiva, meanwhile, has been quietly building his own path — with visible determination and self-awareness.

The Right Mindset

Asked about how he views his own journey compared to his more high-profile U19 batchmates, Shiva delivered one of the more mature answers of the day.

"If you want to keep playing cricket, you have to learn something new every single day," he reflected. "You need to have that mindset to learn; only then can you move forward. I don't really look at where my batchmates are right now. I just try to focus on balancing my weaknesses and positives so I can perform well in the match."

That kind of grounded, self-directed philosophy is exactly what separates cricketers who continue to grow from those who plateau. Shiva's focus on continuous improvement over comparison is a lesson young cricketers everywhere would benefit from carrying with them.

From Kashi Rudras to Noida Kings

Shiva Singh's UPT20 journey has been rich. He was part of Kashi Rudras during the first three seasons of the league, helping them win two titles. This season, he has moved to Noida Kings — a franchise now being led by Prashant Veer, a Rs 14.2 crore signing of the Chennai Super Kings.

Praise for Captain Prashant Veer

Shiva was full of appreciation for his captain, offering a warm assessment of what Prashant brings to the Noida Kings dressing room.

"Prashant has played the IPL, so I would say he brings a lot of experience," Shiva noted, praising his skipper. "This is his fourth year, and he has been doing great in all four seasons. Earlier, he was alone in Noida, playing innings that won matches single-handedly. He's a very good leader and a great team man. He always steps up in tough situations. It shows character—coming from the IPL and dominating here. He has a really good attitude towards cricket."

Coming from a player who has just won his side a playoff spot, that kind of open praise for a captain reveals a healthy, aligned dressing room culture — often one of the most under-discussed drivers of team success in franchise cricket.

The Playoff Picture

With their emphatic win, Noida Kings have now become the third team to book their place in the UPT20 League playoffs — after Meerut Mavericks and Lucknow Falcons. Now they will set their sights on going the distance and lifting their maiden UPT20 title.

Why It Matters

Domestic T20 leagues like UPT20 play an increasingly important role in India's cricketing ecosystem. They give players outside the immediate national spotlight a stage to perform, sharpen their skills and prove themselves in high-pressure situations. Shiva Singh's Sunday performance is the perfect example of what these leagues can produce — a player rediscovering his form through a phone call from his father, seizing a must-win moment, and delivering a match-defining performance that carries his team into a playoff spot.

For selectors, scouts and IPL franchise talent evaluators, performances like this stand out. A five-wicket haul with a hat-trick in a five-over shoot-off — under intense pressure and against an unbeaten side — is exactly the kind of high-stakes moment that separates capable domestic performers from special ones.

Cultural Impact

Shiva's story is also a beautiful reminder of the emotional infrastructure that quietly holds up so many sports careers in India. Family — especially fathers who have themselves played the game — often serve as invisible coaches, mentors and mental health anchors for young cricketers navigating the pressure of the professional circuit. Ajit Singh's call to his son on Sunday will now go down as one of those moments that shaped a match.

The Bigger Picture

Shiva Singh's Sunday performance for Noida Kings will be remembered for many reasons — the hat-trick, the five-wicket haul, the playoff qualification and the emphatic dismantling of an unbeaten side. But at the heart of it all was something much simpler. A father calling his son. A son listening. And a young cricketer finally releasing the mental pressure he had carried through nine matches to deliver one of the finest bowling performances of his career.

The playoffs now beckon Noida Kings, and with a player like Shiva Singh peaking at exactly the right moment, they will fancy their chances of going all the way. For the young left-arm spinner himself, this is just another reminder that in cricket — as in life — sometimes the biggest moments are set in motion not by tactics or team meetings, but by a familiar voice on the other end of a phone call, reminding you to just play the way you always do.

• India women's hockey team faces Germany in the 5th-6th place classification match at FIH Hockey World Cup 2026 in Amstelveen on Thursday.
• A win would deliver India's best-ever World Cup finish since the fourth-place result at the inaugural 1974 edition — a 52-year benchmark.
• India have lost just once in five matches, holding China, England and Australia to draws and hammering South Africa 6-1.
• Head coach Sjoerd Marijne says the squad is proud but "hungry for more," acknowledging finishing has been the missing piece.
• Deepika and Navneet Kaur remain key from penalty corners; Savita, Bichu Devi and captain Salima Tete anchor the defence.

The Indian women's hockey team stands one game away from writing a new chapter in the sport's history. When Sjoerd Marijne's side takes the field against Germany in the 5th-6th place classification match of the FIH Hockey World Cup 2026 in Amstelveen on Thursday, it will do so knowing that a win delivers India's best World Cup finish since the fourth-place effort at the tournament's inaugural edition in 1974 — a milestone that has stood unmatched for more than five decades.

Why It Matters

Fifth place at a World Cup may not carry the shine of a podium, but for Indian women's hockey, it would represent generational progress. In nine appearances at the FIH World Cup, the team has repeatedly flirted with a breakthrough only to fall short. Beating Germany would not just improve the record book — it would validate a decade of investment, coaching restructures, and grassroots development that has finally brought India into consistent conversation with the world's top-ranked sides.

The Campaign So Far

India have lost only once in five matches at this World Cup. They held Paris Olympics silver medallists China, England and Australia to draws — draws that in previous editions might have been defeats. Their attacking capability was on full display in a commanding 6-1 win over South Africa, the team's most prolific World Cup victory to date. The only blemish came against defending champions the Netherlands, who needed a hard-earned 2-0 result to see India off. A third-place finish in the second stage meant India narrowly missed the semi-finals — a heartbreak that has fed straight into their motivation for the classification match.

Germany's Path to the Clash

Germany arrive with their own competitive story. Wins over Scotland, USA and Spain kept them in contention, but a defeat to Belgium consigned them to third in their pool and into the 5th-6th playoff. Historically strong and tactically disciplined, the German side will present a stern test — but one India believes it can meet head-on.

The Finishing Question

If there has been a recurring theme in India's campaign, it is the gap between opportunities created and goals scored. Marijne's forwards have consistently worked their way into the attacking third against elite opposition but have often lacked the killer touch. Deepika and Navneet Kaur will be central to unlocking Germany, particularly from penalty corners, where set-piece execution could decide the match. Defensively, goalkeepers Savita and Bichu Devi Kharibam have been outstanding, while captain Salima Tete's rushing blocks during penalty-corner defence have added another layer of security.

Coach's Take

"The girls have already made history by securing the best ranking in a World Cup since 1974, but we want more," Marijne said. He acknowledged the team's disappointment at missing the semi-finals but framed it as a healthy sign — a squad that no longer settles for competing but now expects to win.

The Bigger Picture

A victory in Amstelveen would do more than close a memorable tournament on a high. It would give Indian women's hockey a fresh benchmark, one built on the current generation's shoulders rather than a fading 1974 memory. For a program long defined by "close finishes" and "learning experiences," Thursday offers something different: a chance to convert progress into a permanent line in the history books.

• Diksha Dagar will lead the Indian team at the 2026 Women's Irish Open, starting Thursday at The K Club's Palmer South Course in County Kildare.
• Tournament marks its 20th edition with over 129 players from 34 countries competing for a €450,000 prize pool.
• India fields a four-player team — Diksha Dagar, Pranavi Urs, Avani Prashanth and Tvesa Malik.
• Dagar currently ranks 11th on the Order of Merit with 5 Top-10 finishes and 4 additional Top-20 placements this season.
• Home hopes rest on Solheim Cup star and World No. 82 Leona Maguire, as Ireland fields a record 16 players — 9 professionals and 7 amateurs — but the tournament has yet to see a home winner.

Indian women's golf takes centre stage on the European circuit this week as the 2026 Women's Irish Open tees off on Thursday at The K Club's Palmer South Course in County Kildare, Ireland. Marking its 20th edition, the tournament has drawn a robust international lineup — with over 129 players from 34 countries battling for a €450,000 prize pool. For the host nation and for India alike, this is one of the most anticipated events on the Ladies European Tour calendar.

India's Four-Player Line-Up

India's challenge at Kildare will be led by two-time LET winner Diksha Dagar, with a strong four-player squad rounding out the team. Alongside Dagar, Pranavi Urs, Avani Prashanth and Tvesa Malik will represent India — offering a compelling mix of seasoned experience, mid-career consistency and emerging talent. It is a lineup that captures the current momentum of Indian women's golf on the LET.

Diksha Dagar: The Team's Anchor

Diksha Dagar enters the week as one of the most consistent Indian players on the European circuit. She has achieved five Top-10 finishes and four additional Top-20 placements this season, currently ranking 11th on the Order of Merit. Her precision, strategic play and dependable short game are particularly suited to the challenges of the Palmer South Course, where wind conditions could add another layer of difficulty for the field.

Pranavi Urs: Consistency in Form

Pranavi Urs arrives at Kildare with strong recent form and impressive consistency. She was the only Indian to qualify for the Swiss Ladies Open two weeks ago, where she finished tied for 38th. The golfer from Mysuru has had a steady season, making 12 cuts in 17 events, and currently ranks 46th in the LET season standings. Her focus at Kildare will be to convert this consistency into a strong finish that further solidifies her season trajectory.

Avani Prashanth: The Teenage Rising Star

At 18, Avani Prashanth brings a distinct spark of youth and promise to the Indian squad. The teenager secured her full LET card earlier this season and is returning to competition after taking a brief break in India, having skipped the Swiss event. Prashanth has already demonstrated her ability to compete at this level — finishing tied for third with Diksha Dagar at the Dutch Ladies Open, and placing T-5 at the Jabra Ladies. Her performance this week will be closely watched by Indian golf followers.

Tvesa Malik: Chasing a Return to Form

Completing India's line-up is the seasoned Tvesa Malik. Malik will look to regain her best form after missing the cut in Switzerland. However, her tie-for-fifth finish at the Jabra Ladies Open earlier this season is a clear reminder that she remains fully capable of competing at the top of the LET leaderboard. A strong showing at Kildare would help re-anchor her season trajectory.

The K Club: A Course Built to Test Every Skill

The Palmer South Course at The K Club is designed to challenge all facets of a player's game. Strategic hazards, demanding approach shots and the ever-present possibility of strong winds mean that precision, course management and mental patience will be as important as raw power. On this kind of layout, players with elite short games and disciplined shot selection often gain a significant edge — a factor that could benefit Dagar in particular.

A Competitive International Field

With 129 players from 34 countries in the mix, the international field is deeply competitive. Every round at the K Club is expected to feature multiple leaderboard shifts, tight scoring bands and moments of high pressure. In such a field, consistency of ball-striking, resilient short-game recovery and mental composure through weather variability will be defining differentiators.

The Ireland Storyline: Home Hopes on Maguire

For the host nation, this year's Women's Irish Open carries particular emotional weight. A record 16 Irish players — nine professionals and seven amateurs — are participating, signalling the growing strength of women's golf in Ireland. Although Irish women's golf is gaining strength, the tournament has yet to see a home winner. Solheim Cup star and World No. 82 Leona Maguire will spearhead Ireland's effort to break that streak. Maguire is the only Irish player to have won on the Ladies European Tour, securing the individual title at the 2024 Team Series – London.

Why It Matters: A Pivotal Season Marker for Indian Golf

Every LET event represents an opportunity for Indian women golfers to expand their international footprint, gain valuable points and refine their game against elite global fields. The Women's Irish Open — with its 20th-edition history, strong purse and challenging course — is one of the more significant markers of the LET season. A strong Indian performance here would carry meaningful implications for Order of Merit standings, world rankings and next-season planning.

Diksha Dagar's Consistency Story

Over recent seasons, Diksha Dagar has emerged as one of India's most reliable ambassadors on the LET. Her rankings, cuts made, top-10 finishes and Order of Merit position all reflect the steady, disciplined trajectory of a modern global professional. Her two LET titles have already secured her a place in India's contemporary golfing history — and every strong finish now adds another layer to that ongoing narrative.

The Rising Wave: India's Deepening Golf Pipeline

The mix within India's team — Dagar's tour-ready consistency, Urs's steady progression, Prashanth's teenage promise and Malik's experience — reflects the deepening pipeline of Indian women's golf. Where earlier generations often depended on individual breakthroughs, the current LET season is showing a growing base of competitive Indian participation across multiple tournaments. That is a healthy structural sign for the future of the sport in India.

Why It Matters: A Culture Being Built

Behind every LET season lie years of quiet groundwork — training academies, coaching investments, tournament exposure, family support, private sponsorships and federation-level backing. India's growing presence on the LET is not accidental. It is the outcome of a slowly maturing golfing culture that is now beginning to yield genuine international-level talent, particularly in the women's game.

The Palmer South Wind Factor

Weather conditions — particularly wind — will be a major variable through the week. The Palmer South Course is known to punish careless shot selection when the wind picks up. Players who can read wind well, adapt their club selection accordingly and stay patient through swirling conditions will have a distinct edge. For Dagar, whose game is built on precision, these conditions may present both a challenge and an opportunity.

Industry Impact: Building Indian Golf's Global Profile

Every strong outing by Indian women golfers on the LET further strengthens the visibility of Indian women's golf in global sports conversations. This visibility in turn helps attract further sponsorship, media attention, developmental investment and youth participation back home. Success on stages like the Women's Irish Open therefore carries value well beyond the immediate leaderboard.

Audience Sentiment: Curiosity, Confidence and Hope

For Indian golf fans, this week's event carries a familiar mix of curiosity, confidence and hope. Curiosity about how the teenage sensation Avani Prashanth continues to develop. Confidence in Dagar's ability to challenge deep into the leaderboard. Hope that Urs can build on her Swiss appearance, and that Malik can rediscover her top form. Together, these emotions are shaping strong pre-tournament follower engagement.

The Amateur Layer: Ireland's Talent Investment

The presence of seven Irish amateurs alongside nine professionals reflects an important structural aspect of golf development. Amateur exposure at professional-level events is one of the most effective ways to accelerate the growth curve of emerging players. This is a model that Indian golf federations and academies continue to invest in as well, and the Irish approach is a useful reference for how the amateur-professional bridge can be strengthened.

The Global Field: A Rich Tapestry of Talent

With players from 34 countries in the mix, the leaderboard at Kildare is expected to reflect a wide range of golfing styles, cultural approaches and competitive philosophies. That kind of diversity is one of the great strengths of the LET, and it consistently makes the Women's Irish Open one of the more colourful tournaments on the tour calendar.

Why It Matters: Every Cut Counts

For all Indian players, making the cut is the first and most immediate goal. Every made cut on the LET builds ranking points, prize money and season momentum. It also translates into further opportunities to compete at higher-tier events. For Urs and Malik in particular, a strong week could meaningfully shift their season trajectories.

The Leona Maguire Factor

Leona Maguire's presence at the tournament adds a distinctly elevated competitive dimension. As Ireland's most prominent modern women's golfer, her home-course energy, elite skill set and consistent LPGA and LET experience make her a natural favourite for the top of the leaderboard. Her presence also elevates the overall competitive intensity of the field — a healthy environment for players like Dagar to test themselves against.

What to Watch: Key Storylines Through the Week

Several storylines will shape audience attention through the tournament. Can Diksha Dagar convert her season consistency into a strong Kildare finish? Can Avani Prashanth continue her impressive rookie-season trajectory on the LET? Will Pranavi Urs build on her Swiss appearance? Can Tvesa Malik reset her season with a solid outing? And most importantly — will Leona Maguire finally deliver the elusive first Irish home win? Each of these questions carries its own dramatic weight.

The Bigger Picture: Indian Golf's Global Chapter

At a wider level, the sustained presence of multiple Indian women players at events like the Women's Irish Open reflects a genuine, ongoing chapter of internationalisation for Indian golf. It is a chapter being written not by dramatic breakthroughs alone, but by the quiet, weekly grind of tournaments played, cuts made, courses learnt and rankings built. That grind is what eventually produces sustained global success.

Industry Impact: Growing the Women's Golf Audience

Every LET event featuring Indian players contributes to the slow but steady growth of the women's golf audience in India. As more fans, sponsors, media outlets and young aspirants engage with the LET calendar, the ecosystem around women's golf in India continues to strengthen — creating a more supportive environment for future generations of players.

Why It Matters: A Long Season, Sharpened by Weeks Like This

The LET season is a long, endurance-driven calendar. It is precisely weeks like the Women's Irish Open — with strong fields, meaningful courses and rich histories — that sharpen a player's competitive edge and shape her broader career trajectory. Every result at Kildare will feed into the wider Order of Merit story that will define the final months of the season.

The Bottom Line

The 2026 Women's Irish Open is set to be a genuinely compelling week of golf. With Diksha Dagar leading India's challenge alongside Pranavi Urs, Avani Prashanth and Tvesa Malik, Indian golf fans have every reason to tune in with anticipation and excitement. The Palmer South Course at The K Club will test every player's precision, patience and resilience — while a record 16-strong Irish contingent, led by Solheim Cup star Leona Maguire, will chase the elusive dream of a first Irish home win in the tournament's 20-year history. For India, the goals are layered — cuts made, top finishes chased, world ranking points earned, and season momentum reinforced. For Ireland, the storyline is emotional and historic. For the wider LET, this is one of those weeks that reminds fans why women's golf continues to grow in reach, quality and global relevance. When the first ball is teed off on Thursday at Kildare, the K Club will not just be hosting a tournament — it will be hosting a global celebration of women's golf at its resilient, competitive, inspiring best. And with an Indian team as strong and diverse as this one lining up on the tee, this could well be one of the more memorable weeks of the season for Indian golf followers around the world.

• 58-year-old Rohtak-based runner Bimla Banwala is set to line up for the Delhi Half Marathon, having completed more than 100 races since 2020.
• Her running tally includes more than 50 half marathons, five full marathons, multiple 10Ks and several long-distance events; she now participates in around 10 events every year.
• Has completed the Procam Slam and featured in the Delhi Half Marathon, Tata Mumbai Marathon, Tata Steel World 25K Kolkata and TCS World 10K Bengaluru.
• Runs alongside her husband Chandrapal Banwala — a former Army man — earning the affectionate "power couple" tag in the running community.
• Views running as her source of fitness, positivity and mental freshness rather than a numbers-driven pursuit.

At 58, when many people think of slowing down, Rohtak-based runner Bimla Banwala is preparing to add yet another chapter to one of the most inspiring endurance journeys in Indian recreational running. She is set to line up for the Delhi Half Marathon — an event she is entering with more than 100 completed races already behind her. What began as a simple effort to stay active during the pandemic in 2020 has quietly evolved into a full-blown, deeply loved way of life.

The Numbers Behind the Passion

Bimla's story is remarkable in its consistency and scale. She has completed more than 50 half marathons, five full marathons, several 10Ks and multiple other long-distance races since she started running just five years ago. She now participates in around 10 events every year — a schedule that would challenge even significantly younger runners. And yet, the driving force behind her running is not the numbers themselves.

Running as a Source of Positive Energy

For Bimla, running has become deeply personal. "I started running in 2020, and since then it has become a very important part of my life. I enjoy running in marathon races, and after running, I feel good and have positive energy; my mind remains fresh," she says. That framing — where running is celebrated for what it gives back emotionally, mentally and physically — is exactly what tends to sustain long-term commitment to any endurance sport.

A Familiar Face on India's Biggest Race Circuit

Bimla's running journey has taken her to some of India's biggest and most celebrated road races. A regular participant in Procam International's marquee events, she has completed the Procam Slam — a coveted achievement recognising participation across the Delhi Half Marathon, Tata Mumbai Marathon, Tata Steel World 25K Kolkata and TCS World 10K Bengaluru. That is a nationally significant portfolio of races, and one that speaks to the depth of her commitment.

Running as a Family Story

What makes Bimla's story even more special is that it has grown into a full-fledged family journey. Her husband, Chandrapal Banwala, has joined her on the road, and the couple now travels together to participate in races across the country. Their shared dedication to running has earned them the affectionate tag of a "power couple" within their running community — a recognition that celebrates not just their individual achievements, but their combined pursuit of an active life.

Chandrapal's Own Journey

Chandrapal's own journey with sport goes back much further than the pandemic. A former Army man who joined the forces in 1987, sport has long been part of his life. He was introduced to disciplines such as wrestling during his service years, and running became a major pursuit after the pandemic. Since then, he has completed numerous marathons and ultra-marathons — and has also registered several podium finishes.

'Nothing Better for One's Health'

Speaking about how running has transformed his life, Chandrapal offers a clear, heartfelt endorsement. "I have become so passionate about running that I don't see anything else. Running has become such an integral part of my life, and I truly believe there is nothing better for one's health," he says. His words carry the weight of both discipline and lived experience — someone who has spent decades understanding what physical excellence really means.

A Shared Journey Across Cities

Together, the Banwalas have travelled to Delhi, Mumbai, Kolkata and Bengaluru for races — turning what started as an individual fitness pursuit into a shared life experience. For any couple, especially in their later years, having a shared passion that combines travel, health, discipline and companionship is a remarkable gift. Running has quite literally become a shared vocabulary in their daily lives.

Why It Matters: A Story That Redefines Age

Bimla's journey carries powerful cultural significance. In a society that often subtly encourages older women to step back from public-facing pursuits, her decision to actively participate in over 100 races between the ages of 53 and 58 is a strong, visible statement. It sends a clear message — that endurance sport belongs to every age, every background, and every stage of life.

The Mental Wellness Dimension

One of the most valuable aspects of Bimla's running journey is the mental wellness dimension. Every long-distance runner will tell you that running is as much a mental exercise as it is physical. The discipline of showing up for training, the meditative rhythm of long runs, the clarity that comes after crossing a finish line, and the emotional space that endurance sport creates all contribute to sustained mental well-being. For Bimla, these benefits have clearly become central to why she keeps running.

Industry Impact: The Rise of India's Senior Runner Movement

Bimla is part of a growing wave of senior recreational runners in India who are actively transforming the country's road running culture. From city marathons to community running clubs to organised training programmes, senior runners are increasingly visible — inspiring younger participants, mentoring new runners and contributing meaningfully to the overall health of India's endurance sports ecosystem.

The Post-Pandemic Fitness Awakening

Bimla's story is also emblematic of a wider post-pandemic fitness awakening across India. The lockdowns of 2020 and 2021 forced many Indians to reassess their health, movement habits and long-term wellness priorities. For a significant number of them, that period became the starting line of long, deeply meaningful physical journeys. Bimla's own decision to start running in 2020 is one of the most inspiring examples of how a difficult moment for the world became a transformative moment for individuals.

The Delhi Half Marathon Return

As the Delhi Half Marathon brings runners back to the capital's streets, Bimla will return to the start line with more than a century of races behind her. For someone who has run through India's biggest metros, its most iconic race routes and its most demanding weather conditions, the Delhi Half will not just be another race — it will be another meaningful milestone in an already extraordinary personal chapter.

Why It Matters: Consistency Over Speed

One of the most valuable lessons from Bimla's journey is the lesson of consistency. She is not chasing personal best timings or podium positions. She is chasing continuity, joy and purpose. That framing — where the value of running is defined by its consistency rather than its intensity — is exactly the kind of running philosophy most sports scientists would celebrate as sustainable and health-positive.

Audience Sentiment: A Story That Inspires Beyond Sport

Bimla's story resonates far beyond the world of running. It inspires women who wonder if it is too late to start something new. It inspires older adults who are questioning whether their bodies can take on ambitious physical goals. It inspires couples looking for shared passions they can build together in their later years. And it inspires families who see in the Banwalas a model of active, purposeful ageing.

The Ecosystem Around Her

Behind every long-term runner is a supporting ecosystem — coaches, running communities, event organisers, family members and fellow runners. Bimla's running life has been enriched by all of these — but especially by the running community in and around Rohtak and the national ecosystem built by organisations like Procam International, which has consistently created platforms for runners of every age, gender and level to participate meaningfully.

Why It Matters: Recreational Running Is Nation-Building

Recreational running may look like an individual pursuit, but its collective impact is nation-building. Every runner who takes to the streets contributes to a healthier, more disciplined, more community-oriented society. Bimla and Chandrapal, in their small but significant way, are part of a much larger movement that is quietly building a fitter and more active India — one race at a time.

The Bigger Picture: Ageing With Purpose

At its heart, Bimla's story is about ageing with purpose. In a culture that too often equates ageing with slowing down, her journey offers a counter-narrative — where age becomes an anchor for wisdom, discipline and continued adventure. Every race she runs, every km she completes, every training session she completes, adds to the wider conversation about what a well-lived life at 50, 60 and beyond can truly look like.

What Bimla Represents

Bimla Banwala is not a professional athlete. She is not a celebrity endorser. She is not a national-level competitor. She is something arguably more powerful — an ordinary Indian woman who chose, in the middle of a pandemic, to lace up her shoes and step onto the road. And she has kept stepping, kept running and kept showing up ever since. That kind of consistency is precisely what makes her story so universally inspiring.

Why It Matters: The Culture of Family Fitness

The Banwalas' example also offers an important reminder about the value of family-based fitness. When couples, families and households pursue physical activity together, the benefits multiply — from stronger emotional bonds to shared goals to mutual encouragement during setbacks. Bimla and Chandrapal have quietly built one of the more admirable examples of this kind of shared endurance journey in Indian recreational sport.

The Road Ahead

As she prepares for her upcoming Delhi Half Marathon, Bimla is unlikely to be counting how many races she has completed or how much time she may finish in. She is far more likely to be doing what she has always done — showing up, staying joyful, running her rhythm, embracing the community around her and quietly extending the boundary of what is possible at her age. And in that quiet consistency lies the truest strength of her story.

The Bottom Line

Bimla Banwala's journey — from a Rohtak-based homemaker who first laced up in 2020 to a runner with more than 100 races behind her — is a powerful reminder that endurance sport is not the exclusive territory of the young, the elite or the professional. It is available to everyone who chooses to show up, one training run, one race, one weekend at a time. Alongside her husband Chandrapal, she has redefined what a couple's shared later-life passion can look like. Through her participation in India's biggest races — from Mumbai to Kolkata, Bengaluru to Delhi — she has become a familiar and beloved face in the country's running community. And as she now prepares to line up for another Delhi Half Marathon, her example continues to speak to something much deeper than running itself. It speaks to the power of purpose in later life. It speaks to the beauty of consistent, quiet ambition. And it speaks to the truth that when you start something new — no matter what age you begin — you never know how far, or how meaningful, the road ahead may become. For 58-year-old Bimla Banwala, that road has already stretched over 100 races. And by the look of things, she is only just warming up.

• PM Narendra Modi will address the Khelo India Dialogue on Thursday at 11 a.m. via video conferencing as part of National Sports Day 2026 celebrations.
• Programme is organised by Mera Yuva Bharat (MY Bharat) across two colleges in every district in all states and Union Territories.
• Dialogue links India's sporting ambitions — including its bid to host the 2036 Olympics — with youth leadership and civic engagement.
• Yuva Samvaad session will focus on 5 themes: strengthening sports ecosystem, nurturing 2036 Olympic talent, developing youth leaders, contributing to Viksit Bharat, and the Nasha Mukt Yuva movement.
• Format includes local interactions between young participants, MY Bharat volunteers, athletes and public representatives, reinforcing sport as a nation-building platform.

Prime Minister Narendra Modi will address young people across the country on Thursday in a significant new initiative that seeks to reimagine sport as far more than competition and medals. As part of the National Sports Day 2026 celebrations, PM Modi will address the Khelo India Dialogue at 11 a.m. via video conferencing — placing India's next-generation athletes, volunteers and youth leaders at the centre of a much larger national conversation. It is a program deliberately designed to link the country's sporting ambitions with its broader nation-building agenda.

The Backbone: Mera Yuva Bharat's Nationwide Reach

Organised by Mera Yuva Bharat (MY Bharat), the nationwide programme will bring together young Indians at two colleges in every district across all States and Union Territories. That kind of granular, ground-level reach is what makes the Khelo India Dialogue distinctive. It is not simply a top-down address; it is engineered to actively involve grassroots participation, ensuring that the conversation flows both ways — from Delhi's platforms to the country's smallest districts and back.

Sport Meets the 2036 Olympic Vision

The initiative comes at a moment when India's sporting ambitions are extending well beyond participation and medals. The country is actively preparing to bid for the 2036 Olympics, and the Khelo India Dialogue is being framed as one of the platforms through which young Indians can be brought into that longer-term national vision. In effect, the government is inviting youth to see themselves not just as future athletes or spectators, but as active co-authors of India's next great sporting chapter.

Beyond Sport: A Wider Nation-Building Frame

What makes the Khelo India Dialogue distinctive is its willingness to move beyond the boundaries of sport alone. It brings together sports, fitness, youth leadership, volunteering, civic responsibility and nation-building — all within a single unified framework. That integrated approach reflects a broader policy conviction that sport is not merely about physical excellence; it is a proven vehicle for discipline, teamwork, civic pride, mental resilience and community engagement.

Yuva Samvaad: The Five-Theme Blueprint

A central component of the programme will be Yuva Samvaad, a structured youth-facing dialogue built around five broad themes. Together, these themes function as a blueprint for how young India is being asked to engage with sport and nation-building simultaneously.

Theme 1: Strengthening India's Sports Ecosystem

The first theme will focus on strengthening India's sports ecosystem through better facilities, coaching, sports science and inclusive participation. This is arguably the foundational layer — without world-class training environments, modern sports science infrastructure and inclusive access, no long-term sporting ambition can be realistically pursued. This theme will invite youth to reflect on what needs to change on the ground for India to compete at global levels.

Theme 2: Nurturing 2036 Olympic Talent

The second theme will examine ways to nurture talent for the 2036 Olympics through scientific talent identification, transparent selection and long-term athlete development. India's 2036 Olympic aspirations are only credible if backed by a full-cycle talent pipeline — from scouting to grooming to professional-grade development. Placing this discussion in front of young Indians ensures that the conversation begins early, with the very generation that will actually shape that Olympic outcome.

Theme 3: Creating a New Generation of Youth Leaders

The third theme will focus on creating a new generation of youth leaders — through governance platforms, structured leadership pathways, and MY Bharat-led volunteering programmes. In a democracy of India's scale, youth leadership development is not a soft priority; it is a structural imperative. The Khelo India Dialogue is being positioned to feed directly into that leadership pipeline.

Theme 4: Youth Contribution to Viksit Bharat

The fourth theme will explore how young people can contribute to Viksit Bharat — through developing civic-mindedness, future-ready skills and a culture of structured volunteering. India's long-term development story cannot be delivered by governments alone. It requires a generation of young Indians who see civic contribution as intrinsic to their identity — not optional to it.

Theme 5: Nasha Mukt Yuva Movement

The fifth theme will focus on the Nasha Mukt Yuva movement, positioning sport and peer networks as powerful tools to combat substance abuse among the youth. This is a critical, if sometimes underemphasised, application of sport — as a preventive social intervention. The initiative will be reinforced through weekly Jan Bhagidari activities under the Prime Minister's 100-week nationwide campaign launched on August 2, ensuring sustained, structured community-level participation.

Local Interactions Round It Off

Beyond the national address and structured Yuva Samvaad, the programme also incorporates a strong local layer. It will be followed by local interactions involving young participants, MY Bharat volunteers, local sportspersons and public representatives. Youth with a deep interest in sport will also get the opportunity to interact directly with leading Indian athletes and medal winners — bringing role-model inspiration into a live, dialogue-driven setting.

Why It Matters: The Convergence of Sport and Civic Identity

The Khelo India Dialogue reflects a maturing approach to India's sports ecosystem — one that recognises that sporting excellence and civic strength are inextricably linked. A country that trains for the Olympics simultaneously trains itself in the values of discipline, meritocracy, teamwork, resilience, respect and long-term commitment. Those very values are essential for nation-building at scale.

Industry Impact: A Signal for Sports Investment and Employment

For India's growing sports and wellness sector — from sports infrastructure companies to sportstech platforms, from athlete management firms to sports nutrition brands — programmes like Khelo India Dialogue send an important signal. Government focus on long-term sporting excellence, backed by grassroots-level engagement, typically translates into stronger policy support, increased public investment, expanding private sector opportunities, and a widening base of sports-linked employment.

The 2036 Olympic Bid: A Multi-Dimensional Vision

India's push to host the 2036 Olympics is not merely about winning bidding rights. It is about mobilising a decade-long structural transformation across athlete development, infrastructure, governance, coaching, technology and sports culture. The Khelo India Dialogue is a critical piece of that mobilisation — because ultimately, the 2036 Olympics, if hosted, will be delivered not by policies but by people. And most of those people are today college students, school athletes and young volunteers.

Youth Leadership: The Real Underlying Story

Woven through the entire Khelo India Dialogue is a deeper conviction — that India's next chapter will be shaped by the quality of its youth leadership. The programme is deliberately structured to give young people not just a voice, but a platform. Their aspirations, ideas and feedback on how India's sporting ecosystem and youth programmes should evolve will feed directly into the design of future policies and initiatives.

The Nasha Mukt Yuva Angle: A Preventive Public Health Priority

The Nasha Mukt Yuva movement's inclusion within the Khelo India Dialogue is particularly important. Substance abuse among young people is a serious challenge across India, and sport has consistently proven to be one of the most effective preventive interventions. Structured peer networks, physical engagement and sporting identity all offer powerful protective factors against addiction. Linking the Nasha Mukt Yuva movement with the wider Khelo India platform sharpens its reach and social credibility.

Audience Sentiment: A Programme That Speaks the Youth Language

For India's youth, the framing of the Khelo India Dialogue is likely to resonate strongly. It does not talk down to them; it invites them in as stakeholders. It does not confine sport to elite competition; it treats it as a lifelong civic tool. It does not view youth engagement as a soft outreach exercise; it treats it as a strategic national asset. That framing is precisely what today's young Indians increasingly demand from their public institutions.

Why It Matters: Sport as Soft Power for Nation-Building

Historically, some of the strongest examples of sport-driven nation-building have come from countries that consciously used their sporting infrastructure to shape civic identity, discipline, national pride and community engagement. From post-war Germany's rebuilding through football to China's transformation into a sporting powerhouse, sport has repeatedly demonstrated its ability to align national ambition with mass participation. India appears to be moving decisively into that same conversation with programmes like the Khelo India Dialogue.

The Bigger Picture: Building a Fitter, More Engaged Generation

At its heart, the Khelo India Dialogue is about far more than the Olympic bid or medal counts. It is about shaping a generation that is fitter, more disciplined, more civically engaged, more nationally invested and more socially conscious. It is about ensuring that India's sporting momentum is not built on isolated talent breakthroughs but on a broad, deep, inclusive foundation of youth participation.

What to Watch: From Dialogue to Delivery

The real test of the Khelo India Dialogue will lie in the follow-through. National-level addresses generate initial energy, but sustained impact requires strong operational execution — active MY Bharat chapters, well-structured volunteering platforms, transparent youth leadership pathways, expanded talent identification networks, and continuously deepening links between sport, education and social development. The government's willingness to build and maintain those operational rhythms will determine how far this initiative genuinely goes.

The Bottom Line

PM Modi's Khelo India Dialogue on Thursday is a landmark moment in India's evolving relationship with sport, youth engagement and nation-building. By linking the country's 2036 Olympic ambitions with a five-theme dialogue on ecosystem strengthening, talent development, youth leadership, Viksit Bharat contribution and the Nasha Mukt Yuva movement, the programme places young Indians at the very heart of the country's next great national mission. It reframes sport as a lifelong civic identity, not just an elite competitive pursuit. It positions youth not merely as future athletes or spectators, but as leaders, volunteers, changemakers and co-architects of India's long-term development. And in doing so, it lays down the foundation of a generation that will not only cheer for India on the global sporting stage — but will actively build the India that eventually stands on it. On National Sports Day 2026, the message from the Khelo India Dialogue will be clear: the game is bigger than the medals, the medals are bigger than the moments, and the moments are being built, right now, by a generation that is being asked to step forward — not later, but today.

• The AIFF has appointed Anthony Andrews as assistant coach of the India U17 women's national team; Joakim Alexandersson continues as head coach.
• Andrews will take up the role on a dual basis, continuing as head coach of East Bengal FC.
• He is the most successful coach in Indian Women's League (IWL) history with four titles — two with Gokulam Kerala FC and two with East Bengal FC.
• Under him, East Bengal recently became the first Indian women's club to qualify for consecutive group stages of the AFC Women's Champions League.
• Andrews has already joined the India U17 women's team in Tashkent, where they will play Uzbekistan in friendlies on August 27 and 30 ahead of the AFC U17 Women's Asian Cup China 2027 Qualifiers.

Indian women's football has just received a significant strategic boost. The All India Football Federation (AIFF) has officially appointed Anthony Andrews, currently the head coach of Indian Women's League champions East Bengal FC, as the assistant coach of the India U17 women's national team. Joakim Alexandersson will continue as the head coach of the Young Tigresses, and Andrews will now support that setup on a dual basis, running the roles alongside his ongoing responsibilities at East Bengal FC. It is a bold, structurally significant appointment — bringing arguably India's most decorated women's football coach into the national team environment.

The Most Successful Coach in IWL History

Andrews' credentials are difficult to argue with. He is the most successful coach in the Indian Women's League's history, having won four titles across two clubs. He first guided Gokulam Kerala FC to consecutive IWL titles in 2021-22 and 2022-23, before moving to East Bengal FC and leading them to back-to-back championships in 2024-25 and 2025-26. He is the only coach to have won multiple IWL trophies — a distinction that carries genuine weight when discussing the evolution of Indian women's football at the club level.

Continental Success With East Bengal

Andrews' impact has already extended well beyond India's borders. Last Sunday, he guided East Bengal FC to victory in the Preliminary Stage of the AFC Women's Champions League 2026-27 in Malaysia — a landmark moment that made East Bengal the first Indian women's club to qualify for the group stage in consecutive seasons. Under his stewardship, East Bengal also became the first Indian women's club to win a match in the AFC Women's Champions League group stage last season. Add to that the SAFF Women's Club Championship title he led the Moshal Girls to in December last year, and Andrews' resume reads like a blueprint of modern Indian women's football success.

A Dual Role: East Bengal Plus India Duty

The most unusual — and interesting — element of the appointment is its dual structure. Andrews will continue as the head coach of East Bengal FC while also serving as the assistant coach of the India U17 women's team. On one level, this is a pragmatic solution that allows the AIFF to bring in top-tier coaching expertise without disrupting a successful club setup. On another level, it is a signal that Indian women's football is willing to build innovative, collaborative arrangements between clubs and the national team when the situation calls for it.

Joining the Young Tigresses in Tashkent

Andrews has already joined the India U17 women's team in Tashkent, where the Young Tigresses are scheduled to play two international friendly matches against Uzbekistan on August 27 and 30 as part of their preparations for the AFC U17 Women's Asian Cup China 2027 Qualifiers. His hands-on involvement in a critical preparation window with the U17 squad signals that this is not a symbolic appointment — it is a functional one aimed at delivering real value in the run-up to a major tournament.

The Road to Malaysia

The Qualifiers will be held in Malaysia from October 5 to 11, with India set to compete in Group E alongside Malaysia, Syria and Iraq. Every session between now and October will be critical in shaping the squad's tactical structure, defensive discipline, attacking cohesion and mental readiness. With Andrews joining head coach Joakim Alexandersson, the U17 girls will benefit from a coaching pairing that combines his Indian Women's League and continental experience with the wider technical framework of the AIFF's youth development philosophy.

Andrews's Own Words: 'A Great Honour and Privilege'

Speaking about his appointment, Anthony Andrews said, "It is a great honour and privilege to be part of the India U17 Women's National Team setup. I'm grateful to the AIFF for the trust and confidence they have shown in me, and I'm excited about the opportunity to contribute to the development of the next generation of Indian footballers. Having spent a significant part of my coaching career in women's football, working across both youth and senior levels, representing the country in this capacity is a responsibility that I take with immense pride and commitment."

Grounded in Player Development

Andrews also spoke about the coaching philosophy he brings to the setup. "Over the years, I have been fortunate to work with and develop many players who have gone on to represent India at youth and senior levels. Those experiences have given me valuable insights into player development, talent identification, and creating environments where young players can maximise their potential. I hope to bring that experience, along with the winning culture, professionalism, and high-performance standards that have contributed to recent success at East Bengal FC, to help support the players and staff as we prepare for the future of Indian women's football." His framing is important — it positions his role not merely as a technical support function, but as one grounded in nurturing long-term talent pipelines.

Why It Matters: A National-Level Impact From a Club-Level Track Record

Andrews' domestic and continental success has been anchored in a coaching identity built on structure, professionalism, high standards and player empowerment. Extending that same coaching identity to a national team environment — particularly at the U17 level, where career trajectories are shaped — has the potential to deliver outsized long-term impact. It is precisely the kind of upgrade the Indian women's football ecosystem has been quietly waiting for.

The Broader Coaching Ecosystem

For Indian women's football, the injection of top-tier domestic coaching talent into the national team setup is a strong structural signal. It suggests that the AIFF is actively looking beyond just international coaches and is willing to formally recognise and leverage the excellence being built within its own domestic league. That in turn is likely to raise coaching aspirations across Indian club circuits — sending a message that professional coaching excellence can translate into national-level opportunity.

The U17 Squad's Big Moment

For the current India U17 women's squad, the timing of Andrews' arrival is significant. Preparing for continental qualifiers is one of the most demanding phases of any young athlete's career. Having a coach of Andrews' pedigree join the setup during this exact window means the players will benefit from a coach who understands what winning looks like at the highest domestic and continental levels of the women's game.

Building Confidence Ahead of Malaysia

Facing Uzbekistan in two international friendlies is exactly the kind of graded preparation the Young Tigresses need before entering the AFC U17 Women's Asian Cup Qualifiers in Malaysia. Uzbekistan will offer sound competitive resistance, while also allowing the coaching staff to test tactical setups, rotation options and individual player development. Andrews' presence during this phase gives the coaching setup an additional layer of tactical intelligence.

Industry Impact: A New Coaching Model for AIFF?

The dual-role model Andrews is being placed in may well become an interesting template for the AIFF going forward. Similar arrangements — top club coaches taking on part-time or advisory roles with youth national teams — have worked well in several global football federations. It allows federations to tap into the best domestic coaching expertise without asking coaches to give up successful club roles that themselves contribute to talent development.

Audience Sentiment: Warm Reception Across the Community

The reaction to Andrews' appointment across the Indian women's football community — from fans and coaches to former players and analysts — has been unmistakably positive. His track record inspires trust, and his willingness to take on the additional national team responsibility while still leading East Bengal FC signals a clear commitment to the growth of the women's game at every level.

The Long Game: Building for AFC 2027 and Beyond

While the immediate goal is qualification for the AFC U17 Women's Asian Cup China 2027, the deeper mission behind Andrews' appointment is developmental. Every player in the U17 setup today is a potential India senior team player of tomorrow. A coach with Andrews' pedigree working with them at this formative stage means they will be exposed to elite-level standards early in their careers — an advantage that pays dividends for years to come.

Why It Matters: A Confidence Boost for Indian Women's Football

Indian women's football has been steadily gaining momentum over the past few years — with growing league quality, expanding fan engagement, and improved international showings. Every appointment, every continental milestone, every off-field structural improvement contributes to that momentum. Andrews' appointment is one such important building block, reinforcing the sense that Indian women's football is entering a serious, competitive era with the right people in the right roles.

The Bigger Picture

At its core, Anthony Andrews' appointment as the assistant coach of the India U17 women's team is more than just a personnel decision. It is a statement about how the AIFF is thinking about the future of the women's game in India. It is an acknowledgment that domestic club success has value, that youth pipelines require expert nurturing, that continental ambition demands continental-level coaching, and that Indian women's football deserves the very best coaching minds the country has to offer.

What Comes Next

In the immediate term, focus turns to the two friendlies against Uzbekistan on August 27 and 30, followed by intense preparation for the AFC U17 Women's Asian Cup China 2027 Qualifiers in Malaysia from October 5 to 11. Every session, every match, every review meeting will now be shaped by the additional inputs of a coach who has consistently delivered results at both the Indian Women's League and AFC Women's Champions League stages.

The Bottom Line

Indian women's football has just added one of its most decorated modern coaches to the national team setup. In appointing Anthony Andrews as assistant coach of the India U17 women's team, the AIFF has signalled its intent to raise standards, professionalise pipelines, and empower young players with world-class coaching intelligence. Between his four Indian Women's League titles, his continental campaigns with East Bengal FC, and his deep experience in player development, Andrews brings both credibility and ambition into the national team environment. As the Young Tigresses gear up for their next big challenge in Tashkent — and later in Malaysia — Indian women's football has every reason to feel that this appointment marks not just a coaching change, but a genuine turning point in its long-term journey towards continental relevance and beyond.

• India U20 men's football team head to Tashkent on Wednesday for the AFC U20 Asian Cup China 2027 Qualifiers.
• Blue Colts enter the qualifiers on the back of an unbeaten run — three wins and one draw across four friendlies in Bengaluru, with four consecutive clean sheets.
• Group B campaign: India face Syria on August 31 (4:30 PM IST), hosts Uzbekistan on September 3 (7:30 PM IST) and Bangladesh on September 6 (4:30 PM IST).
• Winger Vishal Yadav credits the Bengaluru camp for team preparation; defender Sumit Sharma Brahmacharimayum captained India in both matches against Yemen.
• Group winners and the seven best second-placed teams across eight qualifying groups will book their tickets to AFC U20 Asian Cup China 2027.

Indian football's next generation is about to face one of its most critical stages of the year. The India U20 men's football team, popularly known as the Blue Colts, will head to Tashkent on Wednesday for the AFC U20 Asian Cup China 2027 Qualifiers. The trip comes on the back of a highly encouraging preparation phase in Bengaluru — an unbeaten run across four international friendlies that featured three wins, a draw and four consecutive clean sheets. In simple terms, coach Mahesh Gawali's team is heading into the qualifiers exactly the way any coach would want — sharp, structured and quietly confident.

The Bengaluru Camp: A Real Confidence Builder

The recent Bengaluru camp produced results that are hard to argue with. The Blue Colts beat Singapore twice — 3-0 and 1-0 — before drawing 0-0 with Yemen and then defeating the West Asian side 1-0 in the return fixture. In total, India scored five goals and did not concede a single one across the four matches. That defensive resilience, especially against a physically-strong opponent like Yemen, is a strong platform on which to build a qualifying campaign.

Vishal Yadav: 'We're Working Together'

Winger Vishal Yadav, who started all four friendlies, credited the camp for allowing the team to prepare collectively for the challenge ahead. "The camp is going really well so far. We are working together for the Qualifiers and putting in our best effort to be fully prepared for the three games ahead," Yadav said. His comments reflect the kind of collective mindset every youth national team coach hopes to see — no individual chasing personal glory, but a group focused on the larger mission.

Why the Friendlies Mattered

The four friendlies were not just about results; they were about exposure and stress-testing the squad. "The friendly matches against Singapore and Yemen were very important for us. They gave us a chance to test ourselves against strong opposition, understand where we need to improve and gain confidence. Yemen, in particular, were good both with and without the ball. The matches were challenging both physically and tactically, which helped us prepare better for the upcoming competition," Yadav noted. Facing a team like Yemen — technically stronger and tactically disciplined — provided precisely the kind of examination that qualifying campaigns demand.

A Captain's Story: Sumit's Big Moment

One of the most emotionally resonant subplots from the Bengaluru camp was defender Sumit Sharma Brahmacharimayum's captaincy of India in both matches against Yemen. "It felt like a huge honour and a big responsibility to be the captain of the national team. Being captain in such big games gave me more confidence and extra motivation to lead the team and communicate better with my teammates. I was proud of the trust the coaches and my teammates showed in me, and it made those two games special," he said.

Returning From Injury, Building Chemistry

For Sumit, the friendlies were also a personal comeback moment. He had missed the SAFF U20 Championship earlier this year due to a minor injury, and the Bengaluru camp gave him an opportunity to reintegrate with the group. "Unfortunately, I was not part of the SAFF U20 Championship because of a minor injury. So, it was good for me to play with these teammates, understand each other better and build a stronger connection so that we can improve together. That's how those four games helped," he said. Those subtle moments of chemistry-building often make more difference in tournament football than headline moves.

Yemen: A Real Yardstick

Sumit acknowledged that facing Yemen offered India a genuine benchmark. "Against Yemen, obviously, it was a tougher challenge, and they gave us a higher standard to play against," he said. In youth football, growth comes from being pushed against opposition operating at a slightly higher tempo — and Yemen appears to have provided exactly that stimulus. The two clean sheets in those fixtures suggest that the Blue Colts responded to the challenge with maturity beyond their age category.

The Defensive Blueprint

India's defensive organisation emerged as one of the standout takeaways from the Bengaluru camp. "We stuck to the game plan. We had a plan where the whole team had to attack and defend together. Based on our previous matches, we analysed a few things and made sure we made very limited mistakes at the back. As a whole team, we defended well. The objective was to defend as a team, and we defended as a team in all four games," Sumit noted. That commitment to collective defensive shape is a coaching hallmark — and, if replicated in Uzbekistan, could give India a serious advantage.

The Fixture List: Three Matches, Three Different Tests

India's Group B campaign in the qualifiers offers three distinct challenges. The Blue Colts open against Syria on August 31 at 4:30 pm IST. They then face hosts Uzbekistan on September 3 at 7:30 pm IST — arguably the toughest test of the group given the home advantage the Uzbeks will enjoy. India then close their group campaign against Bangladesh on September 6 at 4:30 pm IST. Each opponent brings its own tactical profile, and India will need to adapt from match to match without losing the defensive identity they built in Bengaluru.

The Qualification Format: The Path to China 2027

The qualifying pathway is clearly defined. The group winners, along with the seven best second-placed teams across the eight qualifying groups, will secure their places in the AFC U20 Asian Cup China 2027. For India, that means winning matches counts, but the manner of winning and the goal difference could also be decisive if the team ends up chasing a best-runners-up berth. Every clean sheet, every goal, every point begins to carry weight.

Why It Matters: Youth Football Is India's Long-Term Bet

India's football journey at the senior level has often been shaped by structural gaps in youth development. That is precisely why the U20 category — where the next generation of national team players is groomed — carries such strategic importance. A strong showing at the AFC U20 Asian Cup Qualifiers is not just about the Cup itself. It is about building a pipeline of confident, internationally-tested players who can eventually anchor India's senior squad in the coming years.

The Coach's Silent Impact

While the players have spoken publicly, much of the credit for the Bengaluru camp's structure and preparation lies with head coach Mahesh Gawali. His ability to instil a team-first defensive identity, extract clean-sheet performances and manage minute-by-minute rotations across four back-to-back friendlies has quietly set the tone for the qualifiers. Youth coaches rarely get the spotlight, but their imprint on the players' development often outlasts a single tournament cycle.

Industry Impact: The Grassroots-to-Global Journey

For Indian football's broader ecosystem — clubs, academies, scouts and administrators — the U20 team's international outings serve as important scouting and validation opportunities. Players who perform in an AFC-level qualifier become natural candidates for I-League and ISL contracts, national U23 selections and eventually senior team consideration. Every match in Tashkent is therefore also a career audition for the young athletes on the field.

Audience Sentiment: Quiet Belief Meets Cautious Expectations

Indian football fans, particularly the passionate youth football community, are approaching the qualifiers with quiet belief. The Bengaluru results have injected genuine optimism, but there is also awareness that qualifying tournaments — especially in Central Asia — can be tactically punishing. What fans will be watching for is not just results but the team's ability to execute a clear plan under pressure.

Why It Matters: The Long March to China 2027

The AFC U20 Asian Cup China 2027 is more than just another age-group tournament. It is a critical developmental staircase for Asian football's next generation, and it offers exposure to a level of intensity that domestic competition alone rarely delivers. Qualifying for it would give India's Blue Colts an entire cycle of high-quality international competition ahead of them — a runway that could reshape the team's ceiling.

The Bigger Picture

At its core, this India U20 campaign is a snapshot of a football culture trying to steadily reset its trajectory. The Blue Colts' clean sheets in Bengaluru, their willingness to test themselves against tougher opposition, their emerging leadership figures and their disciplined coaching setup all point to a program that is beginning to move with a sense of purpose. The next 12 days in Tashkent will offer the clearest test yet of whether that progress has real, tournament-level substance.

What to Watch

Watch for India's set-piece defending, for the transitions when the team wins the ball back, for Vishal Yadav's threat down the flanks, and for Sumit Sharma Brahmacharimayum's leadership at the back. If those elements come together consistently across three matches, the Blue Colts will not just be competitive — they will be genuine contenders for a spot at the continental showpiece.

The Bottom Line

India U20 fly to Tashkent with confidence, clean sheets and clarity. The unbeaten Bengaluru run has given them a foundation, but qualifying campaigns are not won on friendlies — they are won on match nights, in high-pressure moments, against opponents who will test every layer of preparation. On August 31, when the Blue Colts step onto the pitch against Syria, the next chapter of India's youth football story begins. And if the players and their coach can carry the collective discipline of Bengaluru into that opening whistle, this campaign could well become one of the more inspiring chapters in Indian football's ongoing journey towards continental relevance.

• Rishabh Pant picked up a right shoulder injury and was off the field as India bowled in the final phase of Day 2 at the SSC in Colombo.
• Dhruv Jurel took over wicketkeeping duties, capping a superb day in which he also smashed an unbeaten 115.
• India declared their first innings at 503/9d and reduced Sri Lanka to 8/2 in three overs before stumps.
• Pant was hit on the right shoulder by an Asitha Fernando bouncer in the 94th over — a day after copping a blow on his left wrist off Lahiru Kumara.
• Prasidh Krishna and Manav Suthar picked up the two Sri Lankan wickets to fall by stumps; the hosts trail by 495 runs.

India ended Day 2 of the second Test against Sri Lanka at the Sinhalese Sports Club (SSC) in Colombo in complete control — but not without an injury cloud hovering over one of their star performers. Wicketkeeper-batter Rishabh Pant picked up a right shoulder issue after being hit by a bouncer earlier in the day and stayed off the field as India came out to bowl in the closing overs. Fellow wicketkeeper Dhruv Jurel, fresh off an unbeaten 115, took over the gloves and manned the stumps as India reduced Sri Lanka to 8/2 in just three overs before stumps.

Jurel Confirms Pant's Shoulder Concern

Addressing the media after the day's play, Jurel confirmed that Pant was carrying a right shoulder problem and was under close monitoring by the team's physio. "He (Pant) got hurt on his right shoulder. Physio is monitoring him. Today, I kept wickets because he had pain in his right shoulder. Hopefully, he'll be fine tomorrow," Jurel said. The comment offered a measured update — cautiously optimistic but leaving the door open for further assessment overnight.

How Pant Picked Up the Injury

The specific blow that triggered Pant's shoulder issue came in the 94th over of India's first innings, when Sri Lanka pacer Asitha Fernando cranked in a well-directed bouncer. Pant did not fully read the line and length and could do little more than take the blow flush on his right shoulder. The physio ran on to attend to him, applied an ice pack to the affected area, and Pant courageously carried on — going on to construct a spirited 63 off 89 balls before eventually falling.

Second Blow in Two Days

Monday's shoulder injury was, in fact, the second physical setback for Pant in the Test. On Day 1, he was struck on the left wrist by a short ball from Lahiru Kumara in the 58th over of India's innings. That blow required immediate medical attention — the physio applied ice, taping was done on the wrist, and Pant walked off the field unbeaten on 3, retiring hurt. His return later in the innings, and the fluent knock that followed, had already earned him widespread admiration for his grit.

Jurel's Century Steals the Show

While Pant's fight was the emotional subplot, the statistical showpiece of Day 2 was Dhruv Jurel's unbeaten 115. The young wicketkeeper-batter continued his run of impactful red-ball performances with a composed, tempo-setting innings that pushed India into a match-defining position. His hundred, coupled with contributions across the order, powered India to 503/9d and forced Sri Lanka into a survival mindset even before they had faced a delivery.

Late Wickets Rock Sri Lanka

The Indian bowlers wasted no time in stamping their authority. Prasidh Krishna and Manav Suthar struck in the closing overs to remove opener Lahiru Udara and nightwatchman Prabath Jayasuriya, leaving the hosts reeling at 8/2 in three overs at stumps. Sri Lanka now trail by 495 runs — a mountain that grows steeper with every session lost.

Jurel's Second Job of the Day: Behind the Stumps

Perhaps the most striking image of Day 2 was Jurel switching from batting hero to wicketkeeping duty within hours. With Pant sidelined and KL Rahul available as an option, the decision to hand the gloves to Jurel reflects both the team management's confidence in him and the flexibility built into India's Playing XI, which features three wicketkeepers. It is a rare and enviable luxury in modern Test cricket.

Why It Matters: Pant's Availability Is a Big Question

For India, the immediate concern remains Pant's readiness for Day 3 and beyond. Beyond his individual value, the presence of a fit Pant behind the stumps also influences bowling plans, DRS decisions and lower-order stability. If he is unable to keep, Jurel is expected to continue with the gloves — a scenario the team is clearly equipped to handle, but one it would prefer to avoid on a match-defining Day 3.

Player Welfare: The Bouncer Question Returns

The two blows Pant absorbed in as many days also revive a familiar conversation in Test cricket — the physical toll of relentless short-ball tactics against batters who choose to take on the challenge rather than duck. Pant's willingness to counter-attack has always been his hallmark, and it is precisely that intent that made him such a difficult batter to bowl at during his 63. The trade-off, however, is the physical hits that come with it — a reminder of just how demanding Test-match keeping and batting can be over five gruelling days.

Match Context: India's Command

At the close of Day 2, India's dominance is not in doubt. A 503-run first innings, an early two-wicket burst, and a nightwatchman already removed — the visitors have set themselves up for a potentially decisive Day 3. Sri Lanka, meanwhile, must dig in for a long, patient survival job on a pitch that will only get more challenging for batting as the Test progresses.

The Day 3 Storyline

The narrative going into Day 3 is layered — will Pant recover in time to reclaim the gloves? Can India press home the advantage and rip through Sri Lanka's line-up in the first session? And how will Jurel back up his century, both in the field and, if needed, at the crease later in the game? The morning session at SSC could well decide the shape of the match, and possibly the series.

The Bigger Picture: Pant's Fearless Legend Grows

Injuries or not, Rishabh Pant's willingness to take blows, walk back on and still score at Test-match tempo continues to define his cricketing persona. Add to that Jurel's steady rise as a red-ball certainty, and India's wicketkeeper-batter pipeline is looking more secure than at almost any point in recent memory. In Colombo, it is that depth — of talent, temperament and toughness — that is quietly turning the second Test into an Indian showcase.

• Top seed WFM Pratitee Bordoloi surged into the sole lead of the Asian Junior Girls Classical Chess Championship with 6 points from 7 rounds after beating WCM Aadya Gowda.
• WCM Shohradova Leyla of Turkmenistan slipped to 5.5 points after being held to a draw by Shivamshika G.
• FM Prishita Gupta strengthened her title challenge with a win over WFM Nivedita V C, joining the chase group on 5.5.
• In the Open Championship, GM-elect Mayank Chakraborty stayed sole leader with 6/7 after a top-board draw with IM Vignesh Advaith Vemula.
• IM Artem Pingin (Russia) surprisingly held to a draw by Daksh Goyal; FM Sharnarthi Viresh climbed to 5.5 points with a key win over FM Amanmuhammet Hommadov.

Indian chess prodigies continued to dominate the Asian Junior Classical Chess Championship at the ITC Maratha Sheraton, Mumbai, with top seeds WFM Pratitee Bordoloi and GM-elect Mayank Chakraborty extending their leads in the Girls and Open sections respectively. As the tournament enters its decisive final stretch, the top two boards are shaping up as showcases of India's deep bench of teenage chess talent.

Pratitee's Decisive Round 7 Charge

The Girls Championship saw a crucial reshuffle at the top, with Pratitee Bordoloi surging into the sole lead after her hard-fought seventh-round win over WCM Aadya Gowda. The result took Pratitee's tally to six points from a possible seven — enough to open up a critical half-point cushion over her nearest challengers. Her performance across the tournament has been marked by tactical sharpness and endgame precision, hallmarks of a player positioning herself as one of Indian women's chess's next big names.

Leyla Slips, Prishita Climbs

Sharing the lead going into Round 7 was WCM Shohradova Leyla of Turkmenistan, but her hopes of staying alongside Pratitee were dented after being held to a draw by Shivamshika G. Leyla slipped to 5.5 points and now shares the immediate chase group with India's FM Prishita Gupta, who strengthened her own title challenge with a decisive victory over WFM Nivedita V C.

Just behind them, WFM Mariya Kholyavko of Kazakhstan and WCM Dakshita Kumawat played out a draw, moving to 5 points and staying within striking distance depending on how the closing rounds unfold.

Mayank Chakraborty Keeps His Grip on the Open Section

Over in the Open Championship, top seed GM-elect Mayank Chakraborty maintained his sole lead after seven rounds. Facing a stern top-board test from IM Vignesh Advaith Vemula, Mayank was held to a draw — but the result was enough to take his tally to six out of seven and preserve his half-point lead over the chase pack. His mix of solid preparation and calm middle-game play has kept him firmly in title-contention mode.

The Chase Pack Tightens

The Open section's chase group has been steadily shaped by a mix of Indian and international contenders. IM Artem Pingin of Russia was surprisingly held to a draw by Daksh Goyal — a result that will resonate loudly through the standings. FM Sharnarthi Viresh scored an important victory over FM Amanmuhammet Hommadov of Turkmenistan to climb to 5.5 points. Vignesh, Pingin and Viresh are all now within striking distance of the top, ensuring that Mayank cannot afford a single slip in the closing rounds.

Earlier Drama: Jaiveer's Statement Round

Earlier in the tournament, FM Jaiveer Mahendru had emerged as sole leader of the Asian Junior Open Classical Chess Championship after a stunning upset win over International Master Aaditya Dhingra. Jaiveer, rated 2326, out-manoeuvred the higher-rated Dhingra (2403) — an eye-catching win that immediately marked him as one of the young players to watch. He was followed by a strong chase group featuring top seed IM Mayank Chakraborty (India), IM Artem Pingin (Russia), FM Amanmuhammet Hommadov (Turkmenistan) and FM Sharnarthi Viresh (India).

The Guru Prakash Story

One of the tournament's most heartening subplots has been the performance of Guru Prakash, rated 2113. In an earlier round, he punched decisively above his weight by holding FM Madhvendra Pratap Sharma (2363) to a draw — a result that captures the unpredictable magic of junior chess, where preparation and grit routinely overcome rating gaps.

The Girls Championship's Round 4 Turning Point

The Girls Championship, too, had its earlier moment of drama in Round 4, when Pratitee defeated Shivamshika G. and was joined at the top by WCM Shohradova Leyla, who beat the previously unbeaten Pranavasri S. That round set the stage for the tussle at the top that has now decisively swung in Pratitee's favour.

Why It Matters: A Snapshot of India's Chess Depth

The current standings are more than just a leaderboard — they are a snapshot of India's expanding bench of world-class junior talent. Across both Open and Girls sections, Indian players occupy multiple positions in the top half of the standings, mirroring a broader trend that has seen India establish itself as one of the fastest-emerging chess superpowers of the decade.

Industry Impact: A Boost for India's Chess Ecosystem

The Asian Junior Championship also serves as a critical scouting and grooming platform for coaches, federations and sponsors. Strong performances here translate into invitations to elite international events, GM norm opportunities and sponsorship visibility. For a country now producing a Grandmaster every few months, tournaments like this one at ITC Maratha Sheraton are integral pieces of the pipeline.

Audience Sentiment: Rising Following for Junior Chess

Indian chess fans have been closely tracking the tournament, with real-time updates and analyses of Pratitee's and Mayank's games trending across chess social media. The success of D. Gukesh at the world stage, combined with the strong performances of players like R. Praggnanandhaa and Vidit Gujrathi, has created a genuine fan culture around Indian chess — one that now closely follows even junior-level events.

The Road to the Final Round

With one round remaining, the equations at the top are finely poised. Pratitee needs just a steady finish to lift the Girls title, while Leyla and Prishita will need to win outright to have a shot at glory. In the Open section, Mayank Chakraborty must navigate one more pressure-cooker board against a chase pack that has quietly closed in. The final round in Mumbai, therefore, promises to be a fitting finale to a championship that has already announced the next wave of Asian chess stars.

• India reached 419/6 in 112 overs at lunch on Day 2 of the second Test against Sri Lanka at the Sinhalese Sports Club, Colombo.
• Rishabh Pant unbeaten on 63 off 88 balls; Dhruv Jurel not out on 59 off 107 balls in an unbroken 112-run seventh-wicket stand.
• Pant retired hurt on 3 after a blow on his left wrist, then returned to counter-attack and dominate the Sri Lankan attack.
• One of Pant's pulls off Lahiru Kumara sailed over the stadium roof and damaged a solar panel — a replacement ball had to be sought.
• Asitha Fernando struck early with the second new ball, dismissing debutant Saransh Jain; ended the session with 4/60. Devdutt Padikkal earlier scored 117.

Wicketkeeper-batters Rishabh Pant and Dhruv Jurel produced a session of grit, guile and audacity in Colombo on Sunday, joining hands in an unbroken 112-run stand to help India cross the 400-run mark and firmly wrest control back from Sri Lanka on Day 2 of the second Test at the Sinhalese Sports Club. At the lunch interval, India reached 419/6 in 112 overs — a scoreboard that flattered the visitors after a session of relentless Sri Lankan probing.

The Session in a Snapshot

Pant was unbeaten on 63 off just 88 balls, while Jurel walked back to the pavilion undefeated on 59 off 107 balls. The pair batted through a sweltering morning at SSC and effectively pulled the game out of the balance and into India's grip. Pant's 21st Test fifty came off a thumped pull to square leg, while Jurel raised his third half-century with a crisp pull through midwicket.

Sri Lanka's Early Strike With the Second New Ball

The session had begun on Sri Lanka's terms. Fast bowler Asitha Fernando, extracting bounce with the second new ball, ambushed debutant Saransh Jain with a sharp round-the-wicket bouncer, and the leading edge was pouched safely at gully. Fernando's four-for anchored a disciplined new-ball spell that briefly threatened to unravel India's innings — until Pant walked in and shifted the tempo.

Pant's Retired-Hurt Return: Bruised but Unfazed

The morning's most compelling sub-plot belonged to Pant himself. Having earlier retired hurt on 3 after copping a blow on his left wrist, the left-hander walked back in and was immediately targeted with a barrage of short-pitched bowling by the Sri Lankan seamers. He absorbed two more painful hits — this time on his right shoulder — that required medical intervention on the field. Yet, in trademark fashion, Pant refused to retreat. A short ball down the leg side from Lahiru Kumara was dispatched over the stadium roof, damaging a solar panel and forcing officials to seek a replacement ball.

Jurel's Calm Counterpoint

If Pant provided the theatre, Jurel provided the ballast. Pristine in his drives and flicks, he read the length of the Sri Lankan seamers early, and when spin came on, he pulled Prabath Jayasuriya and Keshara Nuwantha to the boundary with authority. His running between the wickets, defence against turn, and shot selection under pressure underlined why he is being groomed as a long-term red-ball option in India's middle order.

Pant's Craft: Paddle, Feet, Nudges

Pant, meanwhile, mixed his usual audacity with more considered craft. He used the paddle sweep to counter the spinners, danced down the track to disrupt their lengths, and worked edges intelligently along the ground to keep the scoreboard ticking. As Sri Lanka persisted with spin from both ends approaching lunch but failed to build consistent pressure, the two wicketkeeper-batters raised their 100-run partnership for the seventh wicket — a stand that has effectively put Sri Lanka on the back foot for the rest of the day.

Why It Matters: A Statement Innings for India's WK Depth

The unbroken stand between two current-generation wicketkeeper-batters is a statement in itself for Indian cricket's talent pipeline. With Pant reaffirming his match-defining ability post-injury and Jurel building a red-ball résumé, the Test XI is quietly resolving one of its trickiest selection puzzles — depth in the wicketkeeper-batter slot without compromising batting quality.

Match Context

Devdutt Padikkal's earlier 117 laid the foundation of the innings, and the 419-run vantage point now gives India ample runs to work with on a surface that will only get trickier for batting as the Test progresses. For Sri Lanka, Asitha Fernando (4-60) and Lahiru Kumara (1-61) have been the pick of the bowlers, but their spinners were unable to break the seventh-wicket resistance.

Brief Scores: India 419/6 in 112 overs (Devdutt Padikkal 117, Rishabh Pant 63 not out, Dhruv Jurel 59 not out; Asitha Fernando 4-60, Lahiru Kumara 1-61) against Sri Lanka.

The Session Ahead

With Pant and Jurel set, and India eyeing a total north of 500, the post-lunch session becomes crucial for Sri Lanka. Another new-ball window is not far away, and unless the hosts strike early, this Test could quickly slide out of their reach.

“Mr Kuldeep Yadav has not fully recovered from his viral illness. He was unavailable for selection in the Playing XI for the second Test against Sri Lanka. However, he can take the field as a concussion substitute, if required,” the BCCI stated in an official statement on Sunday.

Saransh received his Test cap in the team huddle before the toss, after which India elected to bat first at the Sinhalese Sports Club (SSC) Ground. A hamstring injury to off-spin bowling all-rounder Washington Sundar during India’s ODI tour of England had opened the door for Jain’s inclusion in the squad for the Sri Lanka trip.

Saransh, 33, has a strong domestic record, with 54 first-class matches in which he has scored 2,223 runs at an average of 31.75 and taken 188 wickets at an average of 27.30. He also performed well on the India ‘A’ tour of Sri Lanka earlier this year, making an unbeaten 70 and taking a six-wicket haul.

With his debut, Saransh becomes the first off-spinner to make his Test debut for India since Washington Sundar in January 2021. He is the 320th men’s Test player for India and the fifth from Indore to play red-ball cricket for the country, after Narendra Hirwani, Rajesh Chauhan, Naman Ojha and Rajat Patidar. Jain is also the oldest India player to debut in Tests after turning 33 since Robin Singh in 1998.

The victory marks North Delhi’s second consecutive win in as many matches, propelling them to the top of the tournament standings.

Shivi Sharma Anchors First-Innings Total

Opting to bat first, North Delhi Strikers posted a target of 141/4 in their allotted 20 overs, driven by a dominant half-century from middle-order batter Shivi Sharma.

Sharma paced her innings with technical precision, finishing unbeaten on 71 off 54 deliveries in an effort punctuated by nine boundaries. She anchored two crucial partnerships: first alongside opening batter Upasana Yadav, who contributed a steady 43 off 42 balls, and later with team captain Ayushi Soni, who added a quickfire 17.

Despite disciplined spells from the South Delhi bowling unit, Sharma’s late-overs acceleration provided North Delhi with a defendable total on a surface offering balanced bounce for seamers and spinners alike.

South Delhi Chase Stalls Despite Middle-Order Fightback

In reply, South Delhi Superstarz endured a disastrous start to their run chase. Wicketkeeper-batter Nishika Singh was dismissed for a three-ball duck in the opening over, putting early pressure on the top order.

Opening batter Priya Punia and Tanishqa Singh attempted to rebuild, putting together a 36-run stand before Punia fell for 10 off 18 balls. Tanishqa then took on the anchor role, top-scoring for her side with a crisp 46 off 44 balls featuring six boundaries. She found support in captain Shweta Sehrawat, who chipped in with a brisk 27 off 23 balls, including two boundaries and a six.

However, North Delhi’s bowling attack maintained tight line-and-length discipline, consistently breaking partnerships just as South Delhi began to accelerate.

Left-arm spinner Nazma delivered the decisive spell of the second innings, picking up 2/28 from her four overs. Reshika Beniwal, Apeksha Anand, and Priya Mishra each claimed a wicket to restrict South Delhi’s scoring options during the middle overs.

Tight Death Bowling Seals Match

The match swung decisively in North Delhi’s favor in the 14th over when Tanishqa was dismissed with the score at 72/3. Sehrawat fell shortly after at 94/4, leaving South Delhi’s lower-middle order with an escalating required run rate.

When Ekta Bhadana was dismissed for four, South Delhi required 28 runs from the final two overs. Despite an unbeaten 24 off 19 balls from Tanisha Singh and a brief nine-run cameo from Disha Nagar, North Delhi's death bowlers held their nerve, restricting South Delhi Superstarz to 131/5 at the end of 20 overs.

With two wins from two fixtures, North Delhi Strikers now lead the points table as the tournament progresses through its group stages in New Delhi.

Addressing reporters in a pre-match press conference on Saturday, Gambhir addressed media scrutiny, team rankings, and the internal direction of the squad.

"My job is to win trophies, not views and likes. That's all I believe in and that is the difference between me and everyone," Gambhir stated.

Navigating the Transition Period

With India currently positioned fourth in the ICC Test rankings, critics have pointed to recent inconsistency as a sign of a struggling side. Gambhir, however, firmly rejected that narrative, attributing temporary fluctuations to an ongoing roster transition following last year's tour of England.

"Not at all. We are not struggling that much," Gambhir emphasized. "Rankings do not matter. I think we are going through a transition and I am sure that people sitting in the press box and in the commentary box know that... Despite of that, yes, there will be blips, ups and downs. But I thought that since the last one year after the England tour, I think we have played reasonably consistent cricket and Test cricket as well."

He reassured supporters that the team's internal metrics and technical progression point toward long-term sustainability rather than short-term panic.

Selection Synergy and Workload Strategy

A key focus of Gambhir’s press conference centered on squad continuity and workload management. Joined in Colombo by Chairman of Selectors Ajit Agarkar, the head coach highlighted their shared strategy for managing player fatigue while ensuring India’s core match-winners remain available for key assignments.

Gambhir reiterated that the dialog between team management and the selection panel focuses entirely on long-term squad health and results, dismissing speculation of friction over selection choices.

Advocating for Three-Match Test Series

Looking at the broader landscape of red-ball cricket, Gambhir advocated for longer bilateral engagements. He expressed a clear preference for minimum three-Test series over truncated two-match tours, pointing to the structural flaws inherent in shorter formats.

"Ideally I would want a three-Test match series," Gambhir noted. "I've always believed that there should always be a possibility for a team losing the first Test match to come back and win a series... In a two-Test match series, if you lose the first Test match, there is no chance for the other team to come back and win... The maximum you can do is probably draw."

He cited India’s historic 2-1 comeback victory against Australia as a blueprint for why extended series offer better competition and truer indicators of a team's strength.

Focusing on the Present

As India continues its campaign in the ICC World Test Championship (WTC) cycle, Gambhir concluded by urging his side to avoid projecting too far ahead. Instead, the team’s core operational philosophy remains focused on session-by-session execution.

"We should only control what we can control," Gambhir advised. "The entire focus is about looking forward to the next five days and more importantly looking every session and every hour as well... It's not about where we're going to be at the end of the World Test Championship cycle. It's about if we can continue to try and win Test matches, everything else will take care of itself."

Reflecting on his leadership role for his hometown franchise, the hard-hitting left-handed opening batsman stated that while winning the title remains a clear objective, the true measure of success lies in providing a launchpad for local talent to reach the next level, including state team call-ups and Indian Premier League (IPL) contracts.

“Lifting the trophy would be special, but true success means seeing three or four young lads from our squad gain the confidence and exposure to earn IPL contracts and state call-ups,” Sharma said while discussing his expectations for the tournament. “If I can inspire the next generation from Amritsar whilst playing winning cricket, that is the ultimate reward.”

Bridging the Domestic Talent Gap

The Sher-e-Punjab T20 League has emerged as a crucial fixture in Punjab's domestic cricket ecosystem, designed to provide district-level players with access to televised, high-pressure competitive cricket and a professional franchise environment.

For many young cricketers who struggle to transition directly from district tournaments to national domestic setups like the Ranji Trophy or Syed Mushtaq Ali Trophy, the league offers vital exposure to broadcast visibility and high-level match scenarios.

“It is a game-changer for Punjab cricket,” Sharma emphasized. “There is immense raw talent across districts that does not always get immediate limelight in national domestic tournaments. A televised, competitive league bridges that gap.”

Emotional Roots and Fearless Strategy

For Sharma, who developed his game through the grassroots structure in Amritsar before breaking into national prominence, leading his city's franchise carries significant personal weight. Having experienced the pathway firsthand, he views the captaincy as both a milestone and a responsibility to give back to his home state.

“It is an honour to lead this team and a deeply emotional responsibility as well,” Sharma noted. “Punjab has given me everything in my cricketing journey, and stepping out not just as a player but as captain to lead a franchise in my home state’s T20 league is a proud milestone.”

Addressing the tactical identity of the Amritsar Soormas, Sharma revealed that he intends to instill the same aggressive, high-intent brand of cricket that has defined his own career. He outlined a strategy centered on role clarity, proactive play, and mental resilience under pressure.

“My personal approach to the game is all about taking the attack to the opposition right from ball one, and I want that same mindset to reflect across the entire XI. Whether batting, bowling, or fielding, we should never play with the fear of failure,” he stated.

By integrating international and IPL-tested experience into the dressing room, Sharma aims to mentor squad members on match awareness, decision-making, and handling high-stress situations—key attributes required for players aspiring to reach top-tier professional cricket.

Scheduled to take place from September 2 to September 9 at the Abhimanyu Cricket Academy in Dehradun, the week-long franchise tournament features six teams competing across 18 matches. The event is designed to bridge the gap between grassroots talent in Uttarakhand and experienced professional athletes across IPL, Duleep Trophy, and Ranji Trophy platforms.

Mussoorie Thunder constructed a strong five-player core anchored by Madhwal—who rose to prominence with the Mumbai Indians—and Raichandani’s youth leadership. The franchise also secured Ranji Trophy talent in pacer Neeraj Rathore and opening batter Aryan Garg, alongside Board Trophy performer Poorvansh Dhruv.

The league’s roster reveals significant depth across all six franchises:

• Rishikesh Dragons: Features IPL player Yuvraj Chaudhary alongside Ranji Trophy mainstays Saurabh Rawat, Ravinder Negi, and Aarav Mahajan, with Board Trophy player Aviral Mishra.

• Vikasnagar Dhamaka: Led by Duleep Trophy batsman Kunal Chandela, backed by Ranji performer Shashwat Dangwal, Rohit Danu, Vishal Kashyap, and uncapped local prospect Vinay Aswal.

• Herbertpur Knight Riders: Anchored by former IPL left-arm spinner Jagadeesha Suchith, supported by Devendra Bora, Ashar Khan, Sangam Bajpai, and Ayush Deshwal.

• Selakui Strikers: Assembled a domestic core comprising Ranji Trophy players Nishchal Dega, Vijay Sharma, Aryan Sharma, and Piyush Joshi, along with uncapped talent Siddharth Gupta.

• Doiwala Kings: Built around Ranji performer Avneesh Sudha, Board Trophy cricketer Aashman Gulati, and emerging local players Divyanshu Yadav, TNR Mohit, and Sarang Rawat.

Addressing press representatives at the launch, former BCCI Vice President Mahim Verma highlighted the administrative vision behind establishing a domestic T20 pathway.

"The Dehradun T20 League is a progressive and commendable initiative for the development of cricket in Uttarakhand," Verma stated. "A league of this nature will provide young and emerging cricketers with valuable exposure to competitive T20 cricket, while giving them an opportunity to showcase their talent alongside experienced players. I am confident that it will play an important role in strengthening our cricketing ecosystem."

Navneet Mishra, Chief Executive Officer of the Dehradun T20 League 2026, confirmed that match broadcasts and digital streaming details would follow shortly.

"The pre-signings reflect our vision of building a competitive and credible T20 platform that brings together established performers and the next generation of Uttarakhand cricket," Mishra noted. "With Akash Madhwal and Lakshya Raichandani joining Mussoorie Thunder, we expect the energy around the league to reach another level. Dehradun is ready for a new cricketing spectacle."

The host side seized an early advantage in the 11th minute when midfielder Indiana Vassilev connected on a volley to beat Herons goalkeeper Dayne St. Clair, set up by 16-year-old phenom Cavan Sullivan.

Inter Miami responded 10 minutes later through a well-worked attacking sequence initiated by Messi. The Argentine captain floated a left-side cross into the box to Luis Suárez, who cushioned a header into the path of Dániel Pintér. The Academy product finished from close range to register his first career MLS goal and draw the visitors level in the 21st minute.

Messi turned the match around five minutes later with a signature piece of individual skill. Gathering a feed from Ian Fray on the right wing, Messi cut inside onto his left foot and curled a 12-yard strike into the far corner past Andre Blake. The goal—his 13th of the MLS regular season—put Miami ahead 2-1 heading into the halftime interval.

The Union equalized in the 58th minute when 18-year-old defender Neil Pierre rose in the box to head home his third goal in five matches. Philadelphia thought they had taken the lead four minutes later when Milan Iloski found the net, but a VAR review overturned the call due to an offside position in the buildup.

A tense, physical match boiled over deep in stoppage time following an off-the-ball altercation, resulting in straight red cards for Philadelphia’s Cavan Sullivan and Miami’s Yannick Bright in the 90+11th minute.

The draw leaves Inter Miami in second place in the Eastern Conference standings with 39 points (11-3-6), while Philadelphia moves to 5-10-5. Miami returns home to host Toronto FC at Nu Stadium on Sunday.

David, who previously chaired the BCCI national women's selection committee, recently integrated into the franchise’s setup during an off-season domestic development camp at the Sai Krishnan Grounds in Bengaluru. She joins a refreshed support staff led by newly appointed head coach Abhishek Nayar, alongside mentor Lisa Sthalekar and fielding coach Saurabh Bandekar.

"Thrilled to have the selector of India’s World Cup-winning squad as our Head of Scouting. Welcome to UP Warriorz, Neetu David!" the franchise confirmed via an official statement on X.

A Proven Track Record in Talent Identification

David brings a wealth of administrative expertise and field experience to the Lucknow-based franchise. During her tenure as chairperson of the India women's selection committee, she oversaw the assembly of the squad that secured India's historic ICC Women's ODI World Cup victory.

Prior to her administrative career, David established herself as one of India's premier slow left-arm orthodox spinners. Representing the national side in 10 Tests and 97 ODIs between 1995 and 2008, she accumulated 182 international wickets. She holds the world record for the best bowling figures in a women's Test innings, claiming 8 for 53 against the West Indies at Jamshedpur in 1995.

In her new capacity, David will lead grass-roots talent evaluation across domestic circuits to build a competitive squad for the franchise.

Rebuilding After Four Lean Seasons

The hiring comes at a critical juncture for UP Warriorz, who statistically remain the least successful franchise in WPL history. Across the league's first four editions, the team managed 12 victories out of 33 fixtures.

After an encouraging playoff appearance during the inaugural 2023 season, the franchise suffered successive early exits. They finished fourth in 2024 before placing last on the points table in both the 2025 and 2026 cycles.

By placing a selector with a deep understanding of India's domestic ecosystem at the helm of talent acquisition, the franchise aims to resolve systemic squad imbalances and identify unheralded domestic talent ahead of the 2027 player auctions.

Chasing a daunting fourth-innings target of 372, the hosts crumbled for 206 on the final afternoon. Suthar led the bowling charge with a destructive spell of 6 for 55, capping off a remarkable match haul of 10 for 101. The performance sealed a 1-0 lead for the visiting side in the two-match series while marking a triumphant celebration of India's milestone 600th Test match.

Breakout Performances Anchor Indian Dominance

Padikkal, who was drafted into the crucial number three spot following a right foot injury to B. Sai Sudharsan, anchored India's first-innings total with a marathon 167 before adding a fluent 44 in the second essay.

Speaking at the post-match presentation, Gill emphasized the tactical importance of Padikkal's heavy scoring and Suthar's immediate adaptation to subcontinental Test conditions.

"He [Suthar] has been bowling magnificently, even in his earlier outings and throughout this match," Gill remarked. "He looks like a very promising player and someone who can serve India for a very long time. As for Devdutt, he was magnificent to watch. Getting a hundred is crucial, but converting it into a massive score creates the real buffer between a tight game and a dominant position. His ability to dictate terms against their spinners in both innings gave us complete control."

Milestone Win Keeps WTC Ambitions on Track

The victory holds broader significance for India's ongoing World Test Championship (WTC) campaign. Addressing the weight of leading the national team in its 600th red-ball fixture, Gill noted that navigating variable weather forecasts and third-innings batting turbulence added to the satisfaction of the outcome.

When asked about India's mini-collapse in their second innings—where the visitors were bowled out for 193 while pushing for quick runs—the skipper brushed off concerns regarding batting stability.

"Honestly, it isn't a major worry," Gill explained. "We were aiming for a lead near 400. The surface was deteriorating, and we wanted to accelerate to ensure we had enough overs to bowl them out, especially given the unpredictable weather windows on Days 4 and 5. Losing early wickets was a byproduct of that aggressive intent, but structurally we were always in a comfortable position."

"Winning our country's 600th Test match is deeply special," Gill added. "Securing Test wins away from home requires immense effort, and our ultimate goal remains reaching the World Test Championship final."

Sri Lanka Ruin Toss as Surface Deteriorates

Sri Lankan captain Dhananjaya de Silva acknowledged that losing the toss on a surface that degraded sharply over the final 48 hours severely compromised his side's tactical plan.

"The pitch was excellent for batting across the first three days," de Silva stated during his post-match assessment. "Once India won the toss and posted a formidable first-innings total through Rahul and Padikkal, we were constantly chasing the game. Batting in the fourth innings at Galle is notoriously difficult, and losing early wickets in our chase placed us under insurmountable pressure."

The two teams will now travel to Colombo for the second and final Test match, scheduled to begin next week.

The 15th-seeded Indians, who had received a bye in the opening round, won 21-11, 21-11 at the Indira Gandhi Sports Complex. They are now India’s only remaining representatives in mixed doubles after Rohan Kapoor and Ruthvika Shivani Gadde lost a hard-fought match to Canada’s Jonathan Bing Tsan Lai and Crystal Lai 22-20, 19-21, 17-21. Ashith Surya and Amrutha Pramuthesh also exited after a close contest against Turkey’s Emre Sonmez and Yasemen Bektas, going down 21-16, 29-30, 22-24.

Dhruv and Tanisha, playing their second BWF World Championships, will carry India’s mixed doubles hopes into the third round. The duo, who exited in the quarterfinals at the 2025 championships in Paris, will next face the sixth-seeded Chinese pair of Guo Xin Wa and Chen Fang Hui. They have previously won the 2023 Odisha Masters Gold and taken silver at the 2024 Syed Modi International, and reached a career-high World No. 15 ranking as a pair in May 2025.

Later in the day, in women’s singles, former champion P.V. Sindhu was scheduled to play Wen Yu Zhang of Canada, while Unnati Hooda was set to face 13th seed Michelle Li of Canada. In men’s singles, Lakshya Sen aimed to build on his opening-round win against Garret Tan of the United States, and Ayush Shetty, who eliminated defending champion Shi Yu Qi in the first round, was to meet Dumindu Abeywickrama of Sri Lanka. The men’s doubles pair of M.R. Arjun and Hariharan Amsakarunan was drawn against 15th seeds Kang Min Hyuk and Ki Dong Ju of Korea.

Earlier on Day 2, India’s top women’s doubles combination of Gayatri Gopichand and Treesa Jolly upset 16th seeds Allison Lee and Lauren Lam with another solid performance.

Hockey Jharkhand downed Hockey Punjab 3-1 in a Pool A encounter, while Hockey Haryana got past the Hockey Association of Odisha 3-0 in Pool B to top their respective pools. In Pool D, Hockey Madhya Pradesh came back to beat Chhattisgarh Hockey 3-1. In Pool C, Uttar Pradesh Hockey handed hosts Hockey Maharashtra a 3-0 defeat.

The tournament is being hosted by Hockey Maharashtra under the aegis of Hockey India, with matches played in two Divisions, A and B.

In a Division A, Pool A match, Hockey Jharkhand defeated Hockey Punjab 3-1. Rajni Kerketta (23’), Pushpa Dang (36’) and Salomi Nag (58’) scored for Jharkhand, while Harpreet Kaur (7’) pulled one back for Punjab. Hockey Jharkhand (6 points from 2 matches) logged their second win, while Hockey Punjab (0 points from 1 match) suffered their first loss.

Later in Pool B, Hockey Haryana defeated the Association of Odisha 3-0 for their second win and topped the pool. Goals came from Khushi (15’), Anjani (22’) and Durga (56’). Haryana now have 6 points from 2 matches.

In Pool D, Hockey Madhya Pradesh recovered to beat Chhattisgarh Hockey 3-1. Saniya Syed (10’), Tanvi (14’) and Mitali Sharma (45’) scored for the winners after Chhattisgarh took the lead through a penalty stroke by Rukhamani (15’). Madhya Pradesh (3 points from 1 match) led the pool, while Chhattisgarh (3 points from 2 matches) trailed in second place.

In Pool C, Uttar Pradesh Hockey defeated Hockey Maharashtra 3-0. Upadhyay Shweta (13’), Annu (26’) and Vandana Patel (56’) netted for the winners. Uttar Pradesh topped the group with 4 points from 2 matches, while Maharashtra (0 points from 1 match) sat at the bottom of the pool.

Earlier results from Division B also shaped the standings. Hockey Mizoram topped Pool A with 12 points from 4 matches after a 4-1 win over Hockey Andhra Pradesh. Delhi Hockey defeated Kerala Hockey 5-0, while Hockey Karnataka ended as Pool B group winners with a 6-0 victory over Goans Hockey. Hockey Bihar secured second place in the pool with a 5-1 win over the Hockey Unit of Tamil Nadu.

The championship continues with remaining league matches expected to further clarify qualification scenarios across both divisions.

Both squads enter the contest following convincing victories in their tournament openers. India secured three points with a 3-1 win over Wales, while England delivered a decisive 4-1 performance against Pakistan. With early command of Pool D at stake, Monday’s matchup is poised to dictate the trajectory for automatic progression into the next stage.

Set-Piece Strength vs. Open-Play Finishing

India’s victory over Wales highlighted the team's efficiency from set pieces. Defensive pillar Sanjay opened the scoring before captain Harmanpreet Singh executed a brace to seal the win—all three goals originating from penalty corners.

However, coaching staff and analysts noted room for improvement in final-third execution. Despite creating multiple entries into the attacking circle, India failed to convert opportunities from open play. Resolving those finishing touch issues remains a top priority against higher-ranked opposition.

High-Stakes Rivalry Re-ignited

Recent head-to-head fixtures between India and England have produced intense, closely contested hockey. Historically, India holds a narrow advantage with 10 victories to England's nine, alongside five draws.

The defining chapter of their modern rivalry occurred at the Paris Olympics quarterfinal, where India demonstrated tactical discipline under adversity. Playing over 40 minutes with 10 men following a red card to defender Amit Rohidas in the 17th minute, India held off England’s attacks to advance, eventually earning the Olympic bronze medal.

More recently, the sides battled in the FIH Pro League in London, where both fixtures ended deadlocked in regulation time and required shootouts, yielding one win apiece.

Tactical Insights & Team Perspectives

Indian midfielder Hardik Singh emphasized pitch discipline and tactical execution ahead of Monday's showdown:

"When two evenly matched teams face off, things can heat up on the pitch. But we don't carry any animosity—we are friends with many players in the England team irrespective of what happened in Paris. In major tournaments, we have performed well against them, but that doesn't mean we can take them lightly. You have to be better than your opponent on that given day."

India Chief Coach Craig Fulton acknowledged the tactical test posed by the Pool D favorites:

"They are the highest-ranked team in our pool, so we are really going to go after them. They have got unbelievable players and a good structure. But we have our own plans, and hopefully, we’ll foil theirs to put our mark on the game and secure the three points."

Tournament Implications

Under the FIH Hockey World Cup 2026 format, the top two teams from each pool advance directly to the second stage to remain in contention for the semifinals, while the bottom two enter classification matches. A victory on Monday would firmly establish either nation in control of Pool D ahead of the final group stage fixtures.

In recent home series against New Zealand in 2024 and South Africa in 2025, India’s spinners were outshone by their counterparts. With conditions in Sri Lanka expected to favour spin, the effectiveness of the visitors’ slow bowlers will face close scrutiny.

“Regarding Ashwin, I think it is going to be a massive miss. I mean, not only Ravi Ashwin, even the likes of the batters like Virat, Rohit, and with the ball, Jasprit. I think these guys are legends of the game. The records speak for themselves. The numbers are brilliant and Ravi Ashwin, whenever he toured Sri Lanka, he did well,” Maharoof told IANS in an online interaction facilitated by Sony Sports Network.

He explained that while turn is often discussed in Sri Lankan conditions, it is the bounce that frequently picks up wickets for spinners. Ashwin, he said, would have been the ideal candidate for such surfaces. Washington Sundar’s absence would also be felt because of his ability to extract bounce on turning pitches.

“Overall, Ravi Ashwin’s shoes are hard to fill. The numbers speak for itself – not just for his bowling prowess, it’s also for his batting prowess too as a number six batter,” Maharoof added.

With Ashwin having retired in 2024, India’s succession plan remains unclear. Jadeja is nearing the later stages of his career, while Kuldeep Yadav, despite 79 wickets, has featured in only 18 Tests since his 2017 debut and remained on the bench throughout the five-match series against England. Left-arm spinner Manav Suthar impressed on debut with a seven-wicket haul against Afghanistan and performed well in the warm-up game in Colombo.

Maharoof said he preferred Suthar’s ability to generate bounce on the Galle pitch. “Talking about the rest of the spinners in the Indian side, I really like how Manav Suthar made his debut against Afghanistan a few months ago and how he bowled in the warm-up game as well. His pace and bounce, I really like him.”

He acknowledged the question of playing two left-arm spinners but said he would be tempted to field Jadeja, Kuldeep and Suthar. “I think Kuldeep Yadav is a front-runner to start in Galle… Ideally, you like to see an off-spinner for a variation. But I will not be surprised if Manav Suthar plays as well simply because I feel with his ability to get bounce off the surface, it can be handy in Galle.”

On the challenge of bowling in Galle, Maharoof highlighted the importance of adapting to cross-winds that create drift. He identified Sri Lanka’s Prabath Jayasuriya as the home side’s main spin weapon, noting the left-armer’s strong record at the venue.

Turning to India’s batting, Maharoof singled out Rishabh Pant as the player Sri Lanka would fear most because of his ability to change a game within a short period. He also pointed to the solid starts of Devdutt Padikkal and the free-flowing approach of Shubman Gill and Yashasvi Jaiswal.

Maharoof advised India’s attacking batters to trust their natural game and emphasised that first-innings totals would prove decisive. “It’s all about trusting your process… first innings scores for me is going to be a massive one,” he concluded.

Ashish secured second place in the men’s javelin final with a best effort of 74.09 metres, recorded on his third attempt. The performance earned India a podium finish at the global junior event.

Chopra, who recently won a silver medal at the Commonwealth Games, posted on X to applaud the teenager and encourage him toward further success. “Always a great feeling to see Indian athletes competing and winning at the International level; this one is a little more special for me as a javelin thrower. Super proud of you, Ashish, on your Silver at the U-20 Worlds; this is just the start!” he wrote.

South Africa’s Heymans claimed the gold medal with a winning throw of 80.50 metres, while Dominica’s James took bronze with 73.89 metres. India had another representative in the competition: T. Dharanidharan finished sixth with a best effort of 72.35 metres.

Ashish’s silver adds to India’s growing presence in javelin at the junior level, a discipline that has been transformed by Chopra’s achievements over the past decade. Chopra created history at the 2016 World U20 Championships by winning the javelin gold with a then-world junior record of 86.48 metres. He has since become India’s most decorated track-and-field athlete, winning Olympic gold at Tokyo 2020 and silver at Paris 2024.

He is next scheduled to compete at the Lausanne Diamond League later this year, where he is expected to face strong competition, including from Sri Lanka’s Rumesh Tharanga Pathirage, who won the men’s javelin gold at the Commonwealth Games 2026 in Glasgow with a throw of 89.75 metres.

Chopra’s public message of support linked the latest junior podium to the broader trajectory of Indian javelin and framed Ashish’s medal as an early milestone rather than a peak.

At just 20 years old, the young all-rounder has shouldered the responsibility of leading the Titans in the state’s premier T20 competition. While results have not gone in his team’s favour so far, Malakar insists the focus remains on steady improvement rather than immediate outcomes.

“I don’t believe in results. I just trust the process. I am doing my best for my team. If things go according to the plan, the performances will follow,” Malakar said.

Tezpur Titans are still searching for their first victory after losing all three of their opening matches. However, the youngster believes the margins have been fine and remains confident that the team can bounce back in the remaining fixtures.

“Our team has lost a few games because of small moments that haven’t gone our way, but we’ll come back stronger,” he added.

Malakar also praised the tournament’s standard, saying the Assam Premier League has already established itself as an important platform for local cricketers to showcase their talent and earn opportunities at higher levels.

“Every match has been a nail-biter. The competition has been excellent from the very first day, and this is a fantastic platform for players to show what they are capable of. Performances here can open doors to the next level,” he said.

The 20-year-old also defended the quality of the playing surface, stating that the conditions have given batters every opportunity to succeed.

“The wicket has been very good. It’s an international venue, so there is no reason to question the pitch. Our batters simply need to back themselves and play with greater confidence because the ability is certainly there,” Malakar said.

His measured response reflects a leadership approach that prioritises long-term development and collective belief over short-term results in the early stages of the competition.

Defender Anmol Ekka has been named captain of the side. The squad is currently undergoing training at the Sports Authority of India (SAI) centre in Bengaluru under newly appointed coach Frederic Soyez.

As part of their preparation, the team recently completed an exposure tour of Belgium, where the players faced strong international opposition. The tour provided valuable match experience and allowed the coaching staff to assess progress, refine combinations and strengthen overall readiness for the continental event.

The squad is now gaining further competitive exposure through a series of friendly matches against the Malaysian under-21 team at the SAI centre in Bengaluru.

Coach Frederic Soyez expressed satisfaction with the composition of the group. “We are pleased with the balance and depth of the squad selected for the Junior Asia Cup. The players have worked hard over the past few months, showing commitment, discipline and a strong desire to improve. Selection was based on consistent performances, attitude and the ability to execute our game plan under pressure,” he said.

Soyez acknowledged the competitive nature of the tournament while outlining the team’s approach. “It will be a highly competitive tournament, and we respect every opponent. Our focus will be on playing disciplined, attacking hockey while staying true to our structure,” he added.

Highlighting the developmental importance of the competition, the coach noted: “This tournament is also an important step in the players’ development, and we are confident this group has the potential to deliver strong performances and make the country proud.”

The AHF Junior Asia Cup ranks among the premier junior hockey competitions in Asia. It brings together the region’s strongest emerging teams in a high-intensity environment and offers India’s young players a significant opportunity to measure themselves against the best available opposition.

The selected squad is as follows:

Goalkeepers: Vivek Lakra, Kunal Tewatia

Defenders: Anmol Ekka (captain), Rohit Kullu, Chirag, Ravinder, Ashu Maurya, Sanjit Tirkey, Sukhvinder

Midfielders: Adrohit Ekka, Harpal, Jeetpal, Manmeet Singh Rai

Forwards: Ajeet Yadav, Prabhdeep Singh, Gursewak Singh, Aryan Xess, Lovenoor Singh

Alternate Players: Arjun Santosh Hargude, Ritik Lakra

The combination of recent international exposure in Belgium and ongoing competitive matches against Malaysia is intended to sharpen match fitness and tactical understanding ahead of the tournament. With a new coach at the helm, the emphasis appears to be on building a structured yet attacking style of play that can adapt to the demands of a multi-nation junior championship.

For several members of the squad, the Junior Asia Cup will represent a major step in their progression through the national pathway. Consistent performances in the tournament could also open doors to higher levels of representation in the future.

Hockey India has positioned the event as both a competitive target and a developmental milestone. The presence of a balanced squad across goalkeepers, defenders, midfielders and forwards, supported by two alternate players, provides the coaching staff with flexibility in selection and strategy during the two-week competition.

As the team continues its final phase of preparation in Bengaluru, attention will remain on refining combinations and maintaining the discipline highlighted by the coach. The Junior Asia Cup in Moqi will offer a clear assessment of how effectively the group translates its training and exposure into results against regional peers.

Vice-captain KL Rahul has taken charge of the side in Gill’s absence. SLC XI won the toss and elected to bat first at the venue in Colombo.

In an official statement released shortly after the toss, the BCCI said: “Captain Shubman Gill sustained an impact injury to his right ring finger during India’s practice on Thursday. As a precautionary measure, he will not take the field on Day 1 of the warm-up game against SLC XI. The BCCI Medical Team is monitoring his progress.”

The warm-up fixture, reduced from four days to three, serves as a key preparatory outing for India ahead of the two-match Test series against Sri Lanka, which begins on August 15 in Galle. Having last played Test cricket in June, the Indian team is using this match to acclimatise to local conditions that traditionally favour spin bowling.

The fixture also marks the beginning of Subhadeep Ghosh’s tenure as fielding coach. The BCCI opted not to extend the contracts of previous fielding coach T Dilip and assistant coach Ryan ten Doeschate.

Within the squad, left-handed batter Sai Sudharsan continues to make steady progress from a niggle while training at the BCCI Centre of Excellence in Bengaluru. However, India remain without premier fast bowler Jasprit Bumrah, who is sidelined by a knee injury. Bumrah’s absence has opened the door for Jammu and Kashmir pacer Auqib Nabi to receive his maiden Test call-up. Off-spin bowling all-rounder Saransh Jain has also been included, a selection aimed at countering Sri Lanka’s left-hander-heavy batting line-up.

Currently ranked fifth in the World Test Championship table, India require a strong performance in the forthcoming series to strengthen their chances of qualifying for the final. The warm-up provides an important platform for the team to refine strategies, assess combinations and adapt to the subcontinental surfaces they will encounter in Galle and beyond.

Medical staff are closely tracking Gill’s recovery. The decision to rest him on Day 1 is described as precautionary, with further updates expected based on his progress over the remaining days of the warm-up and in the lead-up to the first Test.

Rahul’s leadership experience is expected to provide continuity as the side navigates the early stages of the practice match. The presence of new faces such as Nabi and Jain adds depth and competition within the bowling unit, while the change in the coaching staff signals a fresh approach to fielding standards.

With the Test series against Sri Lanka approaching rapidly, every session of this shortened warm-up carries significance. India will look to maximise the remaining days to fine-tune their preparations under the watchful eye of the medical and coaching teams.

The outcome of Gill’s injury assessment will be closely followed, given his central role as captain and top-order batter. For now, the focus remains on careful management and ensuring the squad is as ready as possible for the challenges that lie ahead in the two-match series.

Batting first, East Delhi Riders posted a competitive 171 for 6 in their 20 overs, built around an unbeaten knock from Sujal Singh. The left-hander scored 82 off 50 balls, including six fours and four sixes, and anchored the innings as wickets fell at regular intervals around him. He paced his effort carefully before accelerating in the latter half to help his side reach a fighting total.

For the Strikers, Vikas Dixit was the most effective bowler, returning figures of 1 for 19 from his four overs. The rest of the attack maintained reasonable control despite Sujal’s resistance.

Chasing 172, North Delhi Strikers made a shaky start and slipped to 39 for 2 in the early overs. Captain Sarthak Ranjan and Yash Bhatia then stabilised the innings with a 113-run partnership for the third wicket that shifted the momentum decisively.

Ranjan led from the front with a commanding 95 off 50 balls, striking seven fours and eight sixes. He took the game away from the Riders in the 14th over, hitting Simarjeet Singh for 29 runs. Although he fell short of a century, caught by Vaibhav Baisla off Ashish Meena, he had already put his team in a commanding position.

Bharat Sindhwani was dismissed soon afterwards, but there was little concern for the Strikers. Yash Bhatia continued in fine form, reaching an unbeaten half-century and guiding the chase with composure. He ensured there were no further setbacks as North Delhi Strikers crossed the target comfortably.

The result underlined the Strikers’ batting depth and Ranjan’s ability to dominate in the middle overs, while Sujal Singh’s lone hand remained the highlight of the Riders’ effort.

Addressing the media at Ahmedabad airport, Sanghavi said the state government would intensify preparations for the centenary edition of the Commonwealth Games, which Ahmedabad is set to host in 2030. The handover at the conclusion of the Glasgow 2026 Games marked the formal transition of hosting responsibilities to India and Ahmedabad.

Olympic champion Neeraj Chopra and Indian Olympic Association President PT Usha received the Commonwealth Games flag and ceremonial baton during the closing ceremony, officially launching the countdown to the 2030 edition.

Sanghavi, who was part of the Indian delegation in Glasgow, said the visit provided an opportunity to observe the organisation and management of an international multi-sport event as Gujarat prepares to stage the Games.

He noted that under the leadership of Prime Minister Narendra Modi, sports and youth development had gained fresh momentum across the country. “The Fit India Movement has made fitness a people’s movement, while the ‘Nasha Mukt Bharat Abhiyan’ is helping build a healthy, aware and empowered youth by encouraging them to stay away from substance abuse,” he said.

Sanghavi added that the Centre had substantially increased the sports budget, enabling the creation of modern sports infrastructure. “As a result, athletes are receiving world-class training, facilities and support, enabling them to excel at global competitions and bring glory to the nation,” he said.

Speaking about Gujarat’s preparations, the Deputy Chief Minister said the state government is advancing work at multiple levels to ensure readiness for hosting the 2030 Commonwealth Games. “The state government is working in a planned manner to further strengthen world-class sports infrastructure and ensure Gujarat is fully prepared to successfully host international sporting events,” he said.

He added that the Central and Gujarat governments were working in close coordination to provide young athletes from India and Gujarat with improved opportunities, modern facilities and greater institutional support. “The government is fully committed to helping the state’s athletes excel at the national and international levels and bring greater pride to Gujarat and the nation,” he said.

The Glasgow Games concluded with expectations that the Ahmedabad edition will expand the programme after the streamlined 2026 event, which featured a reduced number of sports. Commonwealth Sport officials have indicated that the 2030 centenary Games are expected to include a broader programme, with Ahmedabad viewed as central to the future growth of the event.

In an official statement shared on X, the Chief Minister’s office called the triumph a proud moment for Jammu & Kashmir and the nation, wishing the young fighter continued success on the global stage.

Yaqoob recorded the major international win on August 1 at the Burgas Arena in Bulgaria, stopping local favourite Delyan Georgiev via a first-round technical knockout (TKO) four minutes into the opening round. Georgiev entered the bout with an undefeated record and two International Mixed Martial Arts Federation (IMMAF) Amateur World Championship titles to his name.

Hailing from Murran village in South Kashmir’s Pulwama district, Yaqoob delivered a clinical striking display to earn one of the biggest victories of his professional career on a major global MMA platform.

Dedicated to his supporters back home, Yaqoob expressed his gratitude following the match. "This victory means everything to me. I stepped into the cage carrying the hopes of my family, my people in Jammu and Kashmir, and the entire country," Yaqoob said. "Defeating an unbeaten world champion is a dream achievement, but this is only the beginning. I will continue to work harder while proudly representing India on the global stage."

The high jumper-turned-decathlete also entered the record books as the first Indian to win Commonwealth Games medals in two different disciplines. He had earlier secured bronze in the men’s high jump at the 2022 Games in Birmingham.

The first Indian decathlete to cross the 8,000-point mark, Shankar finished with 7,976 points in the most demanding event on the track-and-field programme. He placed behind Victor Lindon of Grenada, who recorded a season-best 8,096 points, and Canada’s Damian Warner, who took silver with 8,036 points.

Across the two-day competition, the 27-year-old finished seventh in the 100 m in 10.96 seconds (870 points), cleared 7.82 m in the long jump for 1,015 points and moved into overall third. He scored 673 points in the shot put, cleared 2.15 m in the high jump for 944 points and finished fifth in the 400 m for 837 points, ending the first day with 4,339 points and second place overall.

On the second day he collected 922 points in the 110 m hurdles, a modest 674 in the discus and 704 in the pole vault, temporarily slipping to fourth. A strong javelin performance returned him to the medal positions, and he confirmed the bronze by scoring 704 points in the 1,500 m to finish with a total of 7,976.

Shankar is the Indian national record holder in the decathlon and a graduate of Kansas State University, where he won two NCAA Division I high-jump titles. He first gained prominence by setting the national high-jump record of 2.29 m in 2018. After his 2022 Commonwealth Games high-jump bronze, he shifted focus to combined events and won silver in the decathlon at the 2022 Asian Games. He is also the reigning Asian champion in both the heptathlon and the decathlon.

The Glasgow bronze marks a significant milestone for Indian athletics, establishing Shankar as a multi-discipline medallist on the Commonwealth stage and underlining the country’s growing presence in the combined events.

Choudhary controlled most of the bout, employing sharp combinations and effective movement to keep the experienced Welsh boxer under pressure. Her consistency across the three rounds impressed the judges, earning her a clear 4-0 verdict and a place in the gold-medal contest.

The result made her the latest Indian boxer to reach a Commonwealth Games final in Glasgow and guaranteed India another medal in the discipline. Choudhary will now aim to convert her strong campaign into gold when she steps into the ring for the final.

Earlier, Jaismine produced a dominant performance to book her place in the women’s 57kg final, defeating Lesotho’s Rapelang Maselela via Referee Stops Contest. From the opening bell, Jaismine controlled the action with sharp combinations, precise footwork and sustained aggression. She won the first round convincingly on all five judges’ scorecards before increasing the intensity in the second. Unable to withstand the pressure, Maselela was counted out and the referee halted the contest in Round 2.

In the men’s 80kg category, Ankush Panghal also reached the final after outclassing Canada’s Joshua Ofori 5-0. Displaying control, precision and composure throughout, Panghal secured his third successive unanimous decision of the campaign and moved within one win of the gold medal.

The semi-final successes of Choudhary, Jaismine and Panghal added to India’s growing medal tally in boxing at the Games and underlined the depth of the country’s contingent in Glasgow.

The 27-year-old managed only two valid throws across six rounds after repeatedly seeing the disc become entangled in the side netting. The podium finish marked the first major international medal of her career. Kaliramna is also a PhD aspirant and the mother of a four-year-old son, Rudra.

Motherhood has coincided with her rise as a top-level athlete. Before Rudra was born in 2022 her personal best stood at 48.08 metres. After an 11-month break she returned to competition in 2024 and improved the mark to 57.19 metres, later reaching 59.73 metres at the Indian Championships in Bhubaneswar earlier this year.

She is coached by her husband, Ravinder Kaliramna, himself one of India’s leading discus throwers and a former gold medallist at the national under-18 and under-20 championships. Alongside her sporting commitments she is pursuing a PhD in Physical Education at Chaudhary Bansi Lal University in Bhiwani.

Her career had earlier suffered a major interruption when a serious knee injury kept her out of competition for more than three years. Through extensive rehabilitation and sustained determination she returned successfully and re-established herself among the country’s leading discus throwers.

She won gold at the 2025 National Games and later claimed the national title. Her resurgence continued with gold at the 2026 South Asian Athletics Championships and a series of strong performances on the national circuit. In 2026 she recorded a personal best of 59.73 metres, emerging as one of India’s top performers in the event and securing qualification for the Asian Games as well as selection for the Commonwealth Games squad.

Kaliramna’s bronze in Glasgow therefore represents both a competitive breakthrough and the culmination of a recovery that has spanned injury, motherhood and academic pursuits while she continued to raise her performance standards.

Rahane announced his decision to retire from all formats on Thursday, ending a career that spanned more than a decade. He is best remembered for leading India to a historic Border-Gavaskar Trophy series victory in Australia in 2020-21.

Kohli, who shared many significant moments with Rahane in the Indian dressing room, posted a warm message on social media: “Jinks, congratulations on a great career, buddy. You’ve done wonders for Indian cricket, and you can be very proud of your journey. The safest pair of hands in the slips and my favourite Test batting partner. Wishing you well always. God bless.”

India wicketkeeper-batter Rishabh Pant also paid tribute, recalling Rahane’s composure and selflessness. “It felt good to share the dressing room with you, Ajju bhai. Calm in every situation, selfless in every role and a leader by example. Thank you for everything you have done for Indian cricket. Wishing you nothing but the best for what’s next,” Pant wrote.

Rahane made his India debut on the 2011 tour of England and went on to play 85 Tests, 90 One-Day Internationals and 20 T20 Internationals. In Test cricket he scored 5,077 runs across 144 innings, including 12 centuries and 26 half-centuries. He also accumulated 2,962 runs in ODIs. His final appearance for India came during the 2023 away Test series against the West Indies.

The high point of his captaincy arrived during the 2020-21 tour of Australia. After India were dismissed for 36 in Adelaide and Kohli returned home for the birth of his child, Rahane assumed leadership of a depleted side. Under his charge India secured a memorable 2-1 series win, highlighted by an eight-wicket victory at the Melbourne Cricket Ground and a historic triumph at the Gabba that breached Australia’s long-standing home fortress and retained the Border-Gavaskar Trophy.

Kohli’s description of Rahane as both a reliable slip fielder and a preferred batting partner underscores the mutual respect that developed during their years together. Pant’s emphasis on calmness and leading by example further reinforces the quiet authority Rahane brought to the team in demanding situations.

The tributes from two of Indian cricket’s most prominent figures add to the widespread appreciation expressed for Rahane’s contributions as a dependable overseas batter, a composed leader and a consistent team man.

Rahane shared the decision in a video posted on his Instagram account, formally closing a distinguished playing career that spanned more than a decade at the highest level. The right-handed middle-order batsman featured in 85 Tests, 90 One-Day Internationals and 20 T20 Internationals for India. His final international appearance came in a Test against the West Indies in July 2023.

In a post on X, Naik wrote: “Ajinkya Rahane’s retirement marks the end of a remarkable chapter in Indian cricket. His dedication, composure under pressure, and commitment to excellence have made him one of Mumbai cricket’s finest ambassadors. His legacy will inspire generations to come.”

Rahane scored 5,077 runs in Test cricket at an average of 38.46, including 12 centuries. In ODIs he accumulated 2,962 runs at 35.26 with three hundreds, while in T20Is he managed 375 runs at a strike rate of 113.29. He captained India in six Tests, winning four and drawing two. He was also part of India’s squads for the 2015 ODI World Cup and the 2014 and 2016 T20 World Cups.

The defining chapter of his international career arrived during the 2020-21 Border-Gavaskar Trophy in Australia. With regular captain Virat Kohli away on paternity leave and India reeling from a 36-all-out collapse in the first Test at Adelaide, Rahane stepped up as stand-in leader. He guided a depleted side to a memorable 2-1 series victory, a result widely regarded as one of Indian cricket’s most resilient overseas triumphs in recent years.

More than half of Rahane’s Test matches were played away from home, where he consistently demonstrated his ability to handle quality pace and bounce on challenging surfaces. In the Indian Premier League he appeared in 212 matches for six different franchises, ending his competitive career as captain of Kolkata Knight Riders in the 2026 season.

The Board of Control for Cricket in India also paid tribute on X, stating: “An illustrious career comes to an end. Thank you @ajinkyarahane88 for your immense contribution to Indian cricket and all the memories that will be cherished forever. Wishing you the very best in your next chapter.”

Naik’s remarks underscore the high regard in which Rahane is held within Mumbai cricket circles. Known for his calm demeanour and team-first approach, the 36-year-old leaves the game with a reputation built on consistency, leadership under pressure and quiet professionalism. His journey from Mumbai’s domestic ranks to international leadership continues to serve as a benchmark for aspiring cricketers across the country.

The Indian boxer was in complete control throughout the quarterfinal, impressing all five judges with his sharp combinations, effective footwork and superior ringcraft. Sachin won the opening two rounds 10-9 on all five scorecards before sealing the contest comfortably in the final round to register a comprehensive victory.

The judges scored the bout 30-27, 30-27, 30-27, 30-27 and 29-28 in favour of the Indian pugilist, underlining his dominance against the Botswana boxer.

With the victory, Sachin advanced to the men’s 60kg semifinals and, under Commonwealth Games boxing rules, also assured India of at least a bronze medal.

Sachin will now aim to carry his impressive form into the semifinals as he looks to secure a place in the gold-medal bout and add another boxing medal to India’s tally in Glasgow.

Earlier in the day, compatriots Sakshi and Arundhati too made it past the quarterfinal stage in their respective weight categories.

Sakshi assured the country of another medal after registering a dominant 5-0 unanimous decision over Northern Ireland’s Caitlin Fryers in the women’s quarter-finals.

Sakshi was in complete control throughout the contest, winning all three rounds on the judges’ scorecards. Four judges awarded her 29-27, while one scored it 29-25, reflecting her dominance in the bout. She also benefited from a point deduction against her opponent.

The convincing victory takes Sakshi into the semifinals, guaranteeing at least a bronze medal under the Commonwealth Games boxing format, where both losing semifinalists receive bronze medals.

Arundhati Choudhary assured the country of another boxing medal after defeating Morgan Henderson (NZL) by a 3-1 split decision in the women’s 70kg quarterfinals.

The Indian pugilist displayed composure and tactical discipline throughout the three-round contest to edge past Henderson in a closely fought bout. Three judges scored all three rounds in Arundhati’s favour (30-26), while one judge awarded the contest to the New Zealander 29-27. The fifth judge had the scores level at 28-28, but a one-point deduction against Henderson tilted the verdict in Arundhati’s favour.

The Indian weightlifting icon was spotted training in Glasgow as she began preparations for the continental showpiece. With the Commonwealth Games title secured, Mirabai has wasted little time in turning her attention to the only major multi-sport prize that has so far eluded her.

The Manipur-born weightlifter opened India's gold-medal account at the Commonwealth Games 2026 by clinching the women's 48kg title in commanding fashion. Despite failing her opening 82kg snatch attempt, she recovered brilliantly to clear the weight on her second lift before raising the bar to 85kg, setting new Commonwealth Games and Commonwealth records in the snatch.

She encountered another hurdle in the clean and jerk after dropping her first attempt, but responded with the composure of a seasoned champion by successfully lifting 105kg on her second attempt, sealing the gold medal well before the competition concluded.

The triumph completed a hat-trick of Commonwealth Games titles for Mirabai, who had earlier won gold at Gold Coast in 2018 and Birmingham in 2022. Her Commonwealth journey began with a silver medal at Glasgow 2014, making her one of the most decorated weightlifters in the history of the Games.

The Asian Games, however, remains unfinished business. At the 2022 Asian Games in Hangzhou, Mirabai finished fourth in the women's 49kg event with a total lift of 191kg, comprising 83kg in the snatch and 108kg in the clean and jerk. Her medal hopes ended painfully when she sustained a thigh injury while attempting 117kg in her final clean and jerk effort.

Now fully fit and carrying the confidence of another Commonwealth Games triumph, Mirabai has already begun laying the foundation for another medal bid. With the Asian Games fast approaching, India's most celebrated weightlifter will be hoping her latest chapter in Glasgow becomes the springboard for redemption on the continental stage.

Harjinder, who added another medal to the country’s tally at the Commonwealth Games 2026, clinching the silver medal in the women’s 69 kg weightlifting competition, said she reaches out to her mother immediately after winning any major events. 

'I usually call my mother first whenever I win a medal, and today was no different—I spoke to her briefly right after my event as she was a little upset with me for being away at competitions for so long," Harjinder told IANS. 

The 29-year-old weightlifter finished with a combined lift of 227kg (101kg snatch + 126kg clean and jerk). She stayed in medal contention throughout the competition and sealed second place with a successful 126 kg lift in her final clean and jerk attempt to secure her second successive Commonwealth Games medal. 

Reflecting on her performance, the weightlifter admitted that while she had achieved higher numbers during training sessions, she was pleased with her consistency on the big stage.

"I am happy with my silver medal. I have achieved better clean and jerk lifts during my training, but I am satisfied that all six of my lifts were valid," she said.

Having set her sights on the top step of the podium, Harjinder, who upgraded her bronze from 2022 Birmingham Games to Commonwealth Games silver in Glasgow, revealed that upgrading her medal status was her main target entering the competition. "I came here with the goal of changing the colour of my medal," she added. 

Harjinder's sporting journey began late and unexpectedly. She was initially a passionate Kabaddi player, training as a raider and even cycling five kilometres daily just to practice. It was only in 2016, at the age of 20, that her life changed at Punjabi University in Patiala.

Esha produced a composed and commanding performance in the eight-woman final, registering 40 hits to finish atop the podium. Paris 2024 double Olympic medallist Manu, meanwhile, battled through a fiercely contested final, surviving a crucial shoot-off before ending with 28 hits to claim the bronze medal.

The Indian duo had laid the foundation with outstanding performances in qualification. Manu topped the standings with 586-20x, while Esha followed closely with 585-18x as both comfortably progressed to the medal round. Former Asian Games gold medallist Rahi Sarnobat narrowly missed out on the final after shooting 582-16x, while Simranpreet Kaur Brar (576-20x) and Abhidnya Ashok Patil (573-16x) competed under Ranking Points Only (RPO) status.

Speaking after her victory, Esha admitted the expectations following her record-breaking triumph at the ISSF World Cup in Munich earlier this season had added to the challenge.

“This match was very pressure-riding for me because of the previous medal I had. The better you get in your event, the more you feel that weight of prestige you have to conquer. I'm happy that I was able to get past it today and grateful that I had the ability to endure it. I really love competing here in Hangzhou. Recalling how the competition went during the Asian Games, where I won four medals, I was really excited to come back. Being familiar with the range, the lighting, and the atmosphere in the final hall definitely counted in my favour,” Esha said.

The victory marks another significant milestone for the 21-year-old from Hyderabad, who earlier this year created history in Munich by setting both the senior and junior world records with 43 hits in the final. A Paris 2024 Olympian and Arjuna Awardee, Esha has continued her rapid rise among the world's leading pistol shooters.

Manu, meanwhile, said the bronze medal was an important marker as she builds towards the major events on the international calendar.

“This medal is very important because it acts as a stepping stone. It gives me clarity on what is working and the direction I want to head in. While the medal surely boosts my confidence, the experience I gained from this competitive match will help even more as we look ahead to major assignments like the World Championships and Asian Games,” Manu said.

The gold medal further cements Hyderabad’s 21-year-old Esha’s impressive career. Earlier this season at the ISSF World Cup in Munich, Esha made history by breaking both senior and junior world records with 43 hits in the final. As a Paris 2024 Olympian and Arjuna Award recipient, Esha continues to rise among the world's top shooters.

For Manu, the bronze medal highlights her exceptional consistency on the world stage, building on her historic Paris 2024 Olympic run, where she made history as the first athlete from independent India to earn two medals at a single Games.

After suffering series defeats in Ireland (2-0) and England (4-0), Iyer got his maiden series victory as India's T20I captain when the visitors sealed a clinical 35-run win in the third and final T20I over Zimbabwe at the Harare Sports Club on Sunday.

“I think we were flawless, honestly speaking, throughout the series, barring the catches that we dropped. But phenomenal effort by each and every individual, including the support staff and whatever we mentioned in the team meeting, executing it to the best of the abilities was something that we always looked up to. 

“The approach was a notch above the others. So congratulations to each and every individual who have been part of this victory and thank you to VVS sir as well for motivating us and inspiring each and every day when we stepped onto the field. I think everything that you mentioned was apt and we could relate to it. So thank you so much and thank you to each and every individual,” said Iyer in a video posted on BCCI’s social media accounts on Monday.

VVS Laxman, who stepped in as India’s head coach for the series, lauded Iyer’s leadership and pointed out how the skipper bounced back after a tough start to his captaincy tenure to unite a largely fresh squad.

“Firstly, a big round of applause to everybody. We set out to win the series and that was what we aspired to do. I would like to congratulate Shreyas because he had a rough start to his captaincy career, but the way he came back and right from the first day when he joined us, one day before the first game, he was very optimistic.

“He was in fact looking forward to play with all of you. It's a new group of players. We know that only four or five were there in England, joined us on this tour. But he was so confident and I think a lot of credit for this victory should be given to the captain. The way he encouraged each one of us. It was again a very collective effort.”

Laxman further spoke on how the squad embraced a winning mentality from day one of assembling in Zimbabwe. “We had one thing which we wanted to achieve. We wanted to exhibit the winner's mindset. If you remember the first meeting we had before the first match, we said that as a team we can display the winner's mindset and I think through the three matches, each one of you have displayed that. 

“So congratulations on that. I would like to thank all the coaches, all the support staff and Amit and the manager for your efforts through the series. Sometimes we don't realise how important a role you all play. So thank you very much for your commitment towards making sure that our players were ready for this series and through the series. All of you have made sure that they are best prepared for each and every match. So thank you to each one of you.”

Thakur claimed his maiden T20I wicket by dismissing the dangerous Brian Bennett for 32, and eventually took 2-30 in his four overs as he helped India defend a massive total of 219/5 and secure a 90-run victory to take an unassailable 2-0 lead in the three-match series.

"I'm really grateful to have got the opportunity to play this game. I'm also really grateful to my family and my close ones, who have always supported me. So I'm really grateful for this," Thakur said at the conclusion of the game. 

Elaborating on his tactical discussion with skipper Shreyas Iyer to break Bennett's opening assault, Thakur said, "I think the wicket was really good to bat on. Me and Shreyas bhai discussed our plans before the spell, and we stuck to them. We felt the slower ball would be a very effective option on this wicket, so we backed it, and it worked for us." 

Thakur, 27, represents Punjab Kings in the IPL and won the Ranji Trophy in 2024/25 with Vidarbha. He has been a regular with the India 'A' team for the last 12 months in both red-ball and white-ball formats. 

"Last month I was playing in the India A tour of Sri Lanka. I played both the one-day and Test series there. I always keep my plans ready for both white-ball and red-ball cricket," he said. When asked about his personal preference between formats, Thakur kept it simple. "No, I enjoy both. I just want to play the game." 

The immediate goal is, of course, winning gold in the Mixed 4x400 metres relay at Oregon, but her biggest dream is achieving the holy grail of world sports -- becoming an Olympic champion.

"My ultimate goal is to win gold at the Olympics. For now, I am totally focused on the World U20 Athletics Championships. I will compete in the mixed 4x400m relay, which will require a collective effort from the entire team in order to win a medal. However, I will put in my best effort and will do my best to make the country proud," Tahura said on the eve of her departure for what will be the biggest event of her career so far.

Tahura, who hones her skills under the watchful eyes of chief coach Sanjoy Ghosh and assistant coach Jaspal Singh Pannu at the Sports Authority of India (SAI), Eastern Centre, has already etched her name in the history books by winning gold in the Women's 4x400m relay at the Asian U20 Athletics Championships last month, which earned her qualification for the world meet.

"There have been a lot of changes in my life after my success at the Asian U20 event. The expectations are greater now. However, I am in good form now and have won gold at the recent state meet, where I created a new meet record. I am aiming to carry this form into the World U20," she asserted.

Haiing from the remote Phulbari village in Bhangar of the South 24 Parganas district, the 19-year-old had started her foray into the world of sports by playing football and cricket with the local boys before venturing into athletics.

The teenager credited her coaches at SAI, Eastern Centre for helping her to realise her full potential. "I have been training at SAI for the last five years, and I owe all my achievements to the coaches and support staff over here. They look after all my requirements, including training, diet etc," the athlete said.

"When I started my journey in athletics, I faced a lot of difficulties since my family was finding it tough to fund my training. But after I was selected to train at SAI, my life has changed, and I hope to achieve greater glory under the guidance of my SAI coaches Sanjoy sir and Jaspal sir," she added.

"I hope my achievements will inspire the youth of West Bengal to take up athletics in bigger numbers."

As she stands on the threshold of the biggest competition of her career, there is one thing that rankles Tahura.

"When I returned after the Asian U20, there was no one to receive me at the airport, " she rued. "I aim to change that by winning medals at the world level.

The ball is now in her court

Samson spent 11 years with RR and captained them for five seasons, before moving to CSK through a high-profile trade ahead of IPL 2026. “Leaving Rajasthan Royals was a huge risk. Once you convey your feelings to the franchise, there is no going back. You could end up in a team you don't want to go to or even in the auction with no certainty. There were two reasons behind this decision.

“First, I was sure that 2025 would be my last season with RR. I had long conversations with my family and my wife. They kept asking me if it was an impulsive decision or if I was really sure. We discussed it for two or three weeks, and then we decided it was time. I was convinced it was the right call.

“Second, I am a confident person. I believe I can stand on my own. I am always ready to start from zero. Many people told me that my batting style might not suit the slow Chepauk wicket. Those thoughts did cross my mind. But then I told myself, 'You are 30 years old. Go out and find a way.' This IPL season, I went in with a lot of energy, thinking I had to achieve something. I discovered a new energy there, and it was working very well for me,” Samson said on JioStar's 'Superstars.’

His initiation at CSK, however, began on a tough note, with low scores in his first three outings amidst team defeats after becoming Player of the Tournament in India’s 2026 Men’s T20 World Cup triumph. Samson highlighted how the franchise's calm environment helped him navigate the slump.

“In T20 cricket, failure is common. In this format, you tend to fail more than you succeed. So, when you are going through a rough patch, you need people around you who understand that failure is part of the game. When I joined CSK, I failed in my first three games. We lost all three, and I didn't score runs.

“I had just come off playing in the World Cup final, but I wasn't able to carry that form into the IPL. In that situation, no matter how experienced you are, you know that the coach expects more, the captain expects more, and Mahi bhai is watching you. So I went to the nets, worked on my game, and stayed in my zone.

“I was more mature this time around and I knew what I had to do. But what really stood out was that the response from the team management and my teammates didn't change even one per cent. When I failed three matches in a row, their faith in me never wavered. That meant a lot to me.”

It was a succinct piece of advice from Dhoni that ultimately settled his nerves, clearing the way for a turnaround century against Delhi Capitals in the next match. “I still remember, Mahi bhai met me after the first three matches when we went for practice. I usually sit right behind him, facing him. So, we sat down, and he looked at me and asked if I was fine. I said, 'Bhaiya, I am fine.'

“Then I kept saying 'but' and 'yes' without even realising it. Then he told me, 'Don't get into but. Just focus on doing what you do best. Everything will be alright.' It was very subtle, but a huge lesson for me. He was telling me that everything is okay. Just because I was failing didn't mean I had to change my batting style, look like I was stressed, or practice for three extra hours.

“At that moment, I felt I really had to perform for them. Then I told Stephen Fleming, 'Don't worry, we'll be fine in the next game.' And in the next game, I scored a hundred against Delhi Capitals. From there, the momentum came back.”

Having captained RR for five years, Samson explained why he didn't seek the leadership role upon joining CSK. “I really started enjoying captaincy at RR. It's a different skill, and I was getting better at it every year. By the fourth year of captaincy, I had a clear idea of what it takes to lead a side in IPL and T20s. I was enjoying it completely.

“But more than that, I wanted to enjoy cricket more. If the environment changes and doesn't suit you anymore, it's okay to move on. Captaincy is not something you should ask for. It's something that should be given to you because people believe you are the right person. Even at RR, I never asked for it.

“Manoj Badale sir, the owner of RR told me I was the next captain, and I said I was ready. I captained for five seasons and after that, I was confident enough to leave that role, start fresh, and enjoy my cricket again. But it was important to have the right people around me. Ruturaj was someone I knew I would enjoy playing under. I was ready to play under his captaincy and that was one of the thoughts that guided my decision of not demanding for captaincy after joining CSK.”

Addressing his perspective on national selection and individual milestones, Samson reiterated that he prefers focusing on his own processes rather than chasing accolades or pushing for spots. “I had already proven what I am in the IPL and I feel that if the Indian team needs me, I don't need to score big runs and win the Orange Cap.

“There have been many instances where I was very close to getting selected in the World Cup team and someone else was picked. But I am not the kind of character who will tell my leaders, 'Bhaiya, please select me, I will play.' I am always like, 'I am here. If you want me, call me.' I will keep doing my training, I will keep doing my processes.

“But when you feel that you need Sanju the most, that is the only time when my best will also come out. That is what happened in CSK as well, and in the World Cup too this time. It's always best to be where you are comfortable, instead of moving out of it, I feel,” he concluded.

Returning to international cricket after a lengthy spell on the sidelines, Mayank struck with the very first ball of the match and finished with impressive figures of 2-18. Along with fellow Delhi pacer Prince Yadav (2-19), he laid the foundation for India’s clinical victory before teenage sensation Vaibhav Sooryavanshi smashed a record-breaking 18-ball half-century to guide the visitors to a comfortable chase of 126 and a 1-0 lead in the three-match series.

Reflecting on the difficult period away from the game, Mayank admitted that the lay-off tested him mentally. "It was very difficult, especially this two-year gap was very challenging for me as a person because the main thing is age wasn’t on my side at that time. I was only 22 or 23 years old," Mayank told reporters after the match.

"So that thing always affected me that at such a young age, I’m having to see so much. At the same time, the motivation to play for the country exists from childhood for every player. So that motivation was there for me that I should return to play for the country and perform the way I did," he added.

Mayank made an immediate impact by dismissing Brian Bennett off the opening ball after Ishan Kishan completed a successful review behind the stumps. He later removed Dion Myers with another lively delivery as Zimbabwe slipped to 32/4 before recovering to post 125/7 through Wessly Madhevere’s 39 and Tadiwanashe Marumani’s unbeaten 27.

Mayank also praised Iyer’s leadership, saying the India skipper gave his bowlers complete freedom to execute their plans.

"I didn’t speak much to him before the match. But when he was captaining, I felt that he showed a lot of confidence in the bowlers and I felt very good that whatever I wanted to bowl, he backed that," Mayank said.

"When he gave me some advice too, I felt very confident that I could back that and it was a good option. I felt very free playing with him. It’s the first time I’m playing under his captaincy. I’ve only seen him lead on TV or with other teams, so it felt very good."

India will look to seal the three-match series when the two sides meet in the second T20I on Saturday.

The 2027 contest will mark the second time The Oval hosts the championship decider after staging the inaugural final in 2021, where Australia defeated India in front of a capacity crowd. 

Last year, during the ICC Annual Conference 2025, ECB was awarded hosting rights for the next three World Test Championship Finals, which are 2027, 2019 and 2031. The first three editions of the WTC Final were held at different venues in England, with Lord’s hosting the 2025 final, where South Africa beat Australia by five wickets. 

New Zealand claimed the inaugural title by defeating India in Southampton in 2021, before Australia lifted the trophy at The Oval in 2023. The upcoming final will also conclude the fourth cycle of the World Test Championship.

ECB Managing Director of Competitions and Major Events Neil Snowball said England was proud to continue hosting the global showpiece for the longest format of the game.

“We are honoured to be staging the next three ICC World Test Championship Finals in England and Wales, and we’re pleased to confirm that The Oval will play host again next year. The 2023 final at The Oval was a huge hit with broadcasters and fans, and I’ve no doubt that next year’s event will be extra special again.

“This promises to be another fantastic opportunity for cricket fans in this country and from around the world to see the best two Test teams in the world from the past two years taking each other on in a showpiece event,” Snowball said in an ECB statement on Thursday.

The 2027 edition will carry additional historical significance as it coincides with celebrations marking 150 years of Test cricket, adding further prestige to a fixture that brings together the world's two top-performing Test sides over the preceding two-year cycle.

ICC General Manager, Events & Operations, Gaurav Saxena, believes the choice of venue reflects the strong relationship between the ICC and the ECB, while also recognising The Oval's place in cricket history.

“The ICC World Test Championship Final has established itself as one of the most prestigious occasions in the global cricket calendar, bringing together the two best Test teams in the world after two years of sustained excellence and consistency. The confirmation of The Oval as the venue for the 2027 final is another testament to the strong and collaborative partnership between the ICC and the ECB. This partnership was showcased through the outstanding success of the ICC Women’s T20 World Cup, where both organisations worked seamlessly together to deliver several landmark moments for women’s sport and create an unforgettable experience for players, fans and the wider cricket community.

“The 2027 World Test Championship Final will hold special significance as cricket celebrates 150 years of Test cricket. The Oval has played a proud role in the history of our sport and has hosted some of its most memorable moments. We look forward to working closely with the ECB to deliver another world-class event that celebrates the enduring legacy of Test cricket and creates lasting memories for fans around the world,” Saxena stated.

Australia are currently atop the WTC rankings, with 87.50 percentage points, while defending champions South Africa follow them in the second spot with 75 percentage points. New Zealand, Bangladesh and India occupy the third, fourth and fifth spots, while Sri Lanka, England, the West Indies and Pakistan hold the sixth, seventh, eighth, and ninth places respectively. 

The tournament will last 11 days, ending on August 3, with the best teams from both zones battling for the championship.

Twelve academy teams are split into two pools of six. Each team plays the others in its pool during the league stage. The top two from each pool will advance to the semi-finals on August 2. The tournament concludes with a third-place playoff and the final on August 3.

Pool A includes Raja Karan Hockey Academy, Khalsa Hockey Academy (Amritsar), Sports Authority of Gujarat – Hockey Academy, Hockey Family Badhkhalsa NCR Hockey Society, Tamil Nadu Hockey Academy, and Pritam Siwach Hockey Academy in Sonepat.

Pool B includes Ritu Rani Hockey Academy, Vadipatti Raja Hockey Academy, Bhai Behlo Hockey Academy Bhagta, Mumbai Schools Sports Association, Adyar Hockey Academy, and Madhya Pradesh Hockey Academy.

The tournament will operate in a league format during the pool stage, where teams earn three points for a win, one point for a draw, and zero points for a loss. In classification matches needing a winner, tied games will be resolved through a shoot-out as per the FIH Tournament Regulations.

Speaking ahead of the championship, Hockey India President Dilip Tirkey said, "The Junior Women Academy Championship has become an important platform in our efforts to strengthen the grassroots development pathway for women's hockey in India. The tournament provides young players with an opportunity to compete against some of the best academy talent in the country while gaining valuable experience in a highly competitive environment. We are confident that this championship will help identify future stars who will go on to represent India at the highest level."

Hockey India Secretary General Bola Nath Singh added, "Academies play a vital role in nurturing young players and preparing them for the next stage of their hockey journey. Championships like these not only promote healthy competition but also provide exposure to talented athletes from across the country. We wish all participating teams the very best and look forward to witnessing exciting hockey over the coming days."

The opening day action kicks off with Raja Karan Hockey Academy against Khalsa Hockey Academy (Amritsar) at 7:30 AM. This is followed by the Sports Authority of Gujarat – Hockey Academy versus Pritam Siwach Hockey Academy, Sonepat, at 9:00 AM. Hockey Family Badhkhalsa NCR Hockey Society will then compete against Tamil Nadu Hockey Academy at 10:30 AM. 

In Pool B, Ritu Rani Hockey Academy will face Vadipatti Raja Hockey Academy at 1:30 PM, and Mumbai Schools Sports Association will compete with Adyar Hockey Academy at 3:00 PM. The day concludes with Bhai Behlo Hockey Academy Bhagta playing against the host, Madhya Pradesh Hockey Academy, at 4:30 PM.

Harbhajan, one of India's greatest off-spinners, said Tendulkar's words have remained with him throughout his playing career and continue to shape the advice he now gives to the next generation of cricketers.

"I think our seniors were so good because they wanted us to play well and become better within our limitations. The best advice I ever got was from the great Sachin Tendulkar," Harbhajan told Jio Star.

"Sachin paaji told me, 'There will be many distractions, many things will come your way, but you have to keep your blinders on, so that you can't look left or right, and only look straight ahead. And what lies ahead? Cricket! If you stay on this path, no one in the world can stop you. Whatever you want to become, whatever you want to do, you will earn every kind of respect, honour, and fame, everything, if you keep walking on this path,' he added.

The former spinner said the same principle is central to the message he now shares with young players breaking into international cricket.

"So, I give the same advice to youngsters: keep your focus on the game. You are who you are because of the game. Don't think that you are bigger than the game. If your attitude isn't right, as much as this game provides, it also knows how to take it back just as quickly," he said.

Harbhajan enjoyed a distinguished international career spanning nearly two decades and played a pivotal role in several of India's biggest triumphs. The off-spinner claimed 711 international wickets across formats, including 417 in 103 Tests, making him one of only a handful of Indian bowlers to cross the 400-wicket mark in the longest format. He also picked up 269 wickets in 236 ODIs and 25 wickets in 28 T20Is.

Ashok, who earned his maiden India call-up for the upcoming T20I series against Zimbabwe, said he made full use of the opportunity to learn from Siraj whenever they trained or spent time together in the dressing room.

"I had a lot of talks with Siraj bhaiya as well. Whenever we were in the dressing room or bowling together in the nets, I would keep asking him questions throughout the day. I would ask him, 'Bhaiya, when you play a match, how much pressure do you feel? What do you think before bowling a delivery? If I have to bowl to someone, how should I set him up?' I would discuss all these things with him," he told JioStar.

According to Ashok, Siraj never hesitated to share his knowledge and even analysed his bowling during practice sessions.

"Siraj bhaiya would explain everything to me very well. He would stand with me and watch two or three of my deliveries. Then he would tell me, 'Do this, make this change, try this.' So I learned a lot from him. I have carried all those learnings with me. Whenever I get time to practice in Jaipur, I focus on those things and try to do them even better," he added.

Ashok was purchased by Gujarat Titans for Rs 90 lakh in the 2025 IPL auction. He finally made his IPL debut against Punjab, where he immediately grabbed attention by clocking 154.2 kmph, underlining his ability to generate genuine pace. The young fast bowler featured in six matches during IPL 2026 and picked up six wickets, with his best figures being 2 for 32, performances that strengthened his case for higher honours.

Ashok also recalled a valuable piece of advice from veteran India fast bowler Ishant Sharma during his early days with Gujarat Titans, saying the conversation changed the way he looked at his bowling.

"When I joined the Gujarat Titans camp for the first time, Ishant Sharma bhai was standing there. He asked me about my recent performance, how many wickets I had taken in Ranji Trophy and what my figures looked like. I told him, 'Bhaiya, I have 16 wickets in four matches.' He said, 'Everything looks good. You are bowling well. But if you work a little more on your length, especially the good length area, those 16 wickets in four matches can easily become 24. Just focus on hitting that consistent length," he said.

"That was a big moment for me. Ishant bhai has played Test cricket for India and has taken more than 300 wickets. He has bowled to the best batters in the world. If he gave me that advice, he must have said it after watching me closely. That advice stayed with me. It reminded me that small improvements in the right areas can make a big difference," he added.

Reflecting on the turning point in his international career, Samson admitted he could see the selectors' thinking change as Kishan grabbed his opportunity.

"After that, Ishan came in, and his story was completely different. He wasn't even in the team. He won Jharkhand the Syed Mushtaq Ali Trophy almost single-handedly, then came into the Indian team and was batting on a different level altogether. I could clearly see that Ishan was moving above me in the pecking order,” Samson told JioStar.

Kishan capitalised on his opportunity with a string of impactful innings, while Samson endured a lean run in the five-match series, leaving the Kerala batter convinced that the race for a World Cup berth had effectively ended.

"You get five matches and score 24, 6, 6, 10 and 0, then another guy comes in, scores 70-odd straightaway, gets a hundred later in the series, and the next match is directly in the T20 World Cup. Anyone would prefer an in-form batter. It was clear that the World Cup was done for me. Whatever had to happen had happened, and the only thing I could do was sit quietly and clap,” he added.

The 31-year-old said the disappointment was particularly painful because it came just when he believed he had finally established himself in India's T20I setup after a remarkable run of form.

"That's the spice of being an Indian cricketer, actually. Everything can change in a single day. The same thing happened with me as well. When I was given those seven matches, I don't think even I would have imagined that I would score three hundreds in those seven games,” he expressed.

Samson said that success had convinced many that his place in the side was secure, but he never allowed himself to think that way. The wicketkeeper-batter also admitted that the setback taught him an important lesson about balancing preparation with mental well-being.

"When I made those runs, people would say, 'Now you're sorted, you're settled. You've made your position in T20Is.' But in my mind, I couldn't believe it. Was it for real? Then the New Zealand series happened. This T20 format is such a funny game. I put my heart and soul into it, practised like mad, thinking my goal was right in front of me, of making sure that I was in the World Cup team. And after giving everything, 24 was my highest score in five matches,” the Kerala batter stated.

Samson revealed that it was during this difficult phase that he realised relentless practice alone was not the answer, as he said, "I realised I was overdoing it, and my wife was right, being happy and mentally in a good space is much more important than putting in hours and hours of practice. The New Zealand series taught me that."

"I think it's really wonderful to see the country host the world championship again. It's a great moment not only for badminton but for Indian sport. In general, there's been a lot of push in the last few years in many sports. And badminton as a sport has grown over time. So it's only fair in time that we host a prestigious event like the world championships. And I'm very happy that at this moment in time Delhi can host this prestigious event,” Gopichand told the media at the BWF World Championships’ official mascot and anthem launch event here.

The 30th edition of the BWF World Championships will be held in New Delhi from August 17 to 23, marking the tournament's return to India after 17 years. The launch event was attended by Badminton Association of India (BAI) president and Assam Chief Minister Himanta Biswa Sarma, BAI General Secretary Sanjay Mishra, and senior officials.

Looking ahead to the busy international calendar, Gopichand pointed out that the World Championships will be followed immediately by the Asian Games, making the coming weeks crucial for India's leading shuttlers.

"I think it's a wonderful event. It's also great timing. We have the world championships followed by the Asian Games. So the next two months are going to be very critical for India, back-to-back. To have Sindhu reach the finals in Japan, to have Ayush, you have Satwik and Chirag. Some really good medal contenders. To go into the big games with such contenders, I think it's great. I'm sure the home conditions, the home crowd, and the support and the familiarity would definitely help the players,” Gopichand stated.

On concerns over the packed international schedule, Gopichand said Indian players have become accustomed to balancing multiple major events during the season.

"I think it happens year on year. Every year, this challenge is there. In fact, this year, if we had had the Commonwealth Games, we would have had to play another event prior. I think in some sense, badminton players are used to the calendar being packed. They are used to competing multiple times in a year. And I'm sure with the experience that the players have in the local conditions, it is only more advantageous than many other countries' players who had to travel for it,” Gopichand expressed.

Reflecting on India's preparations to host one of badminton's biggest tournaments, Gopichand said the country's infrastructure and event management have improved significantly, while expressing confidence that the championships would leave a lasting impression on players and fans alike.

“It would be fair to say that we have our own infrastructure. But the government today has put in all its effort to ensure that the rebuilding of the stadium is underway. We have lots of new players. The stadium is looking really nice. And the organising has gotten better. So I'm sure that this time around, the experience of the players will be very different from what it was in India. It's a great tournament. 

“People are really focused. It will be a great tournament for us as Indians to watch our top players play against the best in the world. And today, when I look back, I think it was a great evening. We had our president, Himanta Biswa Sarma. And also, the mascot and the themes have come out so beautifully in a very young way. I'm sure that this will energise the players. And also the fans look forward to this festival,” Gopichand concluded.

With the three-match series level at 1-1, the iconic Lord's will host a winner-takes-all contest after India claimed the opening ODI at Edgbaston before England bounced back with a four-wicket victory in Cardiff, powered by Joe Root's unbeaten 99.

Speaking to IANS, the 1983 World Cup-winning captain described the series decider as an evenly balanced contest but gave England a slight edge because of home conditions. He also felt India's inability to gel as a settled unit has been the main reason behind their T20I series defeat and the ODI series remaining undecided until the final match.

"I think both teams are 50-50 at the moment. Since England are playing at home, you can say they have a slight edge, maybe 51 percent," Kapil told IANS.

"Looking at the way our team has performed in the T20Is and so far in the ODI series, I don't think the team has gelled completely yet. If this Indian side starts clicking as a unit, I would even give them a 60 percent chance," he added.

India head into the decider with positives despite the defeat in Cardiff. Virat Kohli returned to form with a fluent 65, while Jasprit Bumrah remains the leader of the bowling attack. However, Rohit Sharma will be looking for a significant contribution after an inconsistent run with the bat.

England, meanwhile, will once again rely heavily on Root, who has continued his remarkable consistency in ODI cricket and will be aiming to guide the hosts to another home series triumph.

A victory at Lord's would also help India end a 22-year wait for an ODI win at the iconic venue and secure their eighth bilateral ODI series win over England since 2010.

Kapil also threw his support behind India head coach Gautam Gambhir amid discussions surrounding the team's recent performances, saying the decision on the former opener's future lies with the Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI) and the selection committee.

"That is up to the cricket board and the selection committee to decide. I think he has done a fairly good job, and I wish him all the best," Kapil said.

Displaying immense mat resilience, Hansika Lamba earned her place in the final with a sensational comeback victory in the semifinals, where she overturned a 2-7 deficit against Germany's Anastasia Blayvas by executing a series of explosive takedowns to win 10-7.

In the gold medal bout, the Indian wrestler put up a tough resistance against a formidable opponent in Ukraine's Nataliia Klivchutska, eventually going down 0-5 on points (VPO) to finish second on the podium.

The silver medal adds to a rapidly growing international resume for Hansika, who previously clinched a bronze at the 2026 Senior Asian Wrestling Championships.

The Indian contingent's freestyle wrestlers bolstered the nation's medal count further by capturing two bronze medals on the second day of competition. In the 65kg third-place play-off, Vishal Kaliraman delivered a commanding tactical display to outclass Kazakhstan's Ossumzhan Dastanbek 8-2.

In the 125kg heavyweight class, Rajat Ruhal clinched the bronze medal against USA’s Mason Mark Parris. Ruhal was declared the winner after the American wrestler was forced to forfeit the bout due to an injury (VIN).

These three podium finishes have pushed India's overall medal haul to five, building directly on the opening-day momentum where Olympic bronze medalist Aman Sehrawat won gold in the 57kg division and Deepak secured a bronze in the 61kg class.

The squad will look to expand this tally as the remaining women’s wrestling weight categories- 59kg, 62kg, 65kg, and 68kg, are scheduled to commence tonight at 9:00 PM IST.

India’s challenge will be spearheaded by Neha in the 59kg category, Mansi in the 62kg division, and Nisha in the 68kg class.

Consolidated medal tally (up to day 2)

Men’s freestyle

• 57kg: Aman Sehrawat- Gold Medal

• 61kg: Deepak- Bronze Medal

• 65kg: Vishal Kaliraman-Bronze Medal

• 125kg: Rajat Ruhal- Bronze Medal

Women’s wrestling

• 55kg: Hansika Lamba- Silver

Total medals won so far: 5 (1 gold, 1 silver, 3 bronze)

This marked Sindhu's third semifinal of the season, after the Malaysian Super 1000 and Australia Super 500. Moreover, this is her first Super 750 semi-final since the 2023 Denmark Open.

The 31-year-old Indian, is chasing her first title of the season, will face Tokyo Olympic champion and world No. 4 Chinese shuttler Chen Yufei, whom she trails 6-8 in the head-to-head record.

Sindhu has suffered a loss in the last five meeting with YuFei. A victory in the semifinal would not only end Sindhu's that losing streak but also secure Sindhu’s first Super 750 final in nearly three years.

The two-time Olympic medallist, who is the only Indian challenger left standing at the of the BWF Super 750 tournament, defeated world No. 5 Han Yue of China 21-16, 21-14 in just 35 minutes to make the final eight.

This year, YuFei, 28, won the Indonesia Masters and advanced to the Super 500 finals in Thailand and Malaysia. She also regularly made it to the semifinals of the Super 750s in Singapore and India, as well as the Super 1000s Malaysia Open and All England.

Earlier, India's mixed doubles pair of Dhruv Kapila and Tanisha Crasto bowed out after losing 20-22, 17-21 to China's Feng Yan Zhe and Huang Dong Ping in the pre-quarterfinals.

India's challenge suffered another setback in the women's singles draw, where Unnati Hooda was beaten by Chinese Taipei's Huang Yu-Hsun despite taking the second game. 

India had already lost both of its men's doubles combinations on Tuesday after Satwiksairaj Rankireddy and Chirag Shetty, along with MR Arjun and Hariharan Amsakarunan, bowed out in the opening round, with the former pair sustaining another injury.

Samson spent 11 years with RR and captained them for five seasons, before moving to CSK through a high-profile trade ahead of IPL 2026. "Moving on from RR was a very big decision for me. I believe that after playing for a team for some time, you start to feel like this is your team and nobody can remove you.

“But I always had the awareness that there is a limited time for everyone at one place. You do your part, and you move out and after the end of IPL 2025, a point came when I felt that I should move on. I told myself that the boys are ready, and RR is ready to play without Sanju Samson. That is when I thought of leaving," Samson said on JioStar's 'Superstars.’

Explaining his choice to join CSK, Samson highlighted the influence of MS Dhoni and current skipper Ruturaj Gaikwad. "And when you think of moving out, you wonder where to go and which team to join. There were two or three options at that time. But honestly, CSK, Mahi bhai's influence, the franchise itself, and my friends there, especially Ruturaj, meant I had great connections.

“Based on what I had heard about CSK from other players, I felt that this franchise was my type. If I go there, it will be very good for me. I had wished for that, but a trade is a tricky thing. I want to go there, but do they want me? And the original team needs to get what they want in return. Everyone has to agree. It was a major turning point. Luckily, I ended up in CSK. It was a great feeling," he added.

While his move to CSK was fueled by a desire to share the field with his childhood idol, Dhoni's fitness issues meant he didn’t play in IPL 2026. In turn, it has temporarily delayed Samson’s dream of sharing a partnership with him in CSK colours. "When I was in school, Mahi bhai had just gotten into the Indian team. The way he carried himself and his aggressive batting style really attracted me. I started following him closely.

“He used to appear in the ads, and I would cut out his picture and stick it in my diary. Every kid has an idol, and Mahi bhai was mine. As a child, I used to watch India play every day. Mahi bhai would be captaining and winning matches. I would go to sleep thinking, 'I have to play one day too.' I used to dream of batting with him, building a partnership, and fielding alongside him.

“Now, I have joined CSK. I felt like destiny had brought me here, and I would finally get to play with him. But unfortunately, he wasn't fit this time. He had a calf injury towards the end. But the dream is still alive. Let's see what happens next year," he remarked.

Recalling his early days in the IPL, Samson credited former India pacer S Sreesanth for forcefully pushing his case during the RR trials when he was just a teenager. "Sreesanth bhai is a very generous person. In the Kerala dressing room, when I was young, I used to see him take five or six players every year to the Rajasthan Royals trials.

“At that time, I was dropped from the Kerala team because I wasn't scoring runs. Sree bhai came down to play a crucial Ranji Trophy match. He called our secretary, TC Mathew sir, and said, 'I want Sanju in the team.' Mathew sir replied, 'He is not performing, why should we take him?'

“But Sree bhai insisted, 'No, bring him. I'll make him perform.' I was about 16 years-old then. I scored 122 in the first innings and 51 in the second. After the match, Sree bhai took me to the trial in Jaipur. Rahul Dravid sir came to meet me for the first time. Right in front of him, Sree bhai started hyping me up.

“He said, 'Rahul bhai, look at this boy. He has hit me for a lot of runs. He hit sixes, did this, did that.' I was already under pressure, and he made up a lot of stories there for me. But somehow, I managed to hit a few sixes after that," he recalled.

Though Dravid promised him an opportunity, Samson had to bide his time on the bench during the 2013 season, which he used as a massive learning curve by maintaining a personal diary of advice from legends. "Rahul sir was impressed with my performance in the trials, and he brought me into the Rajasthan Royals setup. He told me, 'I will make you play. In this team, I can promise you that you will get a chance. In other teams, I am not sure, but here I will give you an opportunity.'

“I did well in the trials and also performed for Kerala in the Syed Mushtaq Ali Trophy. In the first practice match before the IPL, Rahul sir gave me a game, but I didn't do well. Still, he had promised me a chance. But when the playing XI was announced for the first match, my name was not there. However, that turned out to be a blessing in disguise.

“I sat out for about five or six games. I used to go and talk to Rahul sir every day for about half an hour. I asked him how to handle pressure. I was picking the brains of all the big players in those first six games. Shane Watson was there, Rahul sir, Ajinkya Rahane, Brad Hodge, all big names. I was just an 18-year-old kid asking them questions. I had a small diary. I would ask them questions, go back to my room, and write down their answers. I noted down how I should try and play if I got a match,” he said.

Samson’s big IPL break eventually came due to an unfortunate injury to regular keeper Dishant Yagnik, though it ended with a quick reality check. "After the first six games, I finally gathered the courage to ask Rahul bhai why I wasn't playing when he had promised me. He calmly explained that I needed to be patient and that my time would come.

“I was frustrated and disappointed after hearing that, so I took out all my anger in the nets. I would go to the nets and hit sixes, thinking, 'I'll show them.' Luckily for me, our wicketkeeper, Dishant Yagnik bhai, got injured. There was no plan to play me, but Dishant bhai got injured for one match.

“So, they played me against Punjab, which was my debut in the IPL in 2013, and I won that game for the team. It was my first match. I scored 27 not out batting at number 6. I also got three-four dismissals while keeping the wickets. But in the next match, Dishant bhai was fit again, and I was dropped," he concluded.

Designed to provide internationally recognised learning opportunities, the workshops aim to equip participants with the latest coaching methodologies, technical knowledge and officiating standards.

The initiative will feature separate workshops for coaches and technical officials, with sessions conducted by FIH educators and experts. Hockey India said the programme is aimed at enhancing the knowledge and skills of coaches and officials while promoting a structured hockey education system across India.

As part of its long-term vision to strengthen hockey at the grassroots level and upskill coaches and technical officials, Hockey India hopes to build a nationwide network of qualified professionals. The federation believes that making quality hockey education more accessible will help create a sustainable ecosystem for the growth of players, coaches, officials and the sport.

Hockey India president Dilip Tirkey said the development of Indian hockey depends not only on players but also on the quality of coaches and technical officials.

"The growth of Indian hockey depends not only on our players but also on the quality of our coaches and technical officials. Through these workshops, we are committed to creating a strong education pathway that reaches every corner of the country. By bringing FIH educators and experts, we aim to ensure that modern coaching practices and officiating standards are accessible to everyone, ultimately strengthening the foundation of the sport in India," he said.

Hockey India secretary general Bhola Nath Singh said continuous education is vital for the long-term development of the game.

"At Hockey India, we believe continuous education is essential for the long-term development of the sport. These Coaching and Officiating Education Pathway workshops will provide valuable learning opportunities for aspiring and experienced coaches and officials. By conducting these workshops nationwide, we are creating a more inclusive and structured system that will contribute to the overall progress of Indian hockey," he said.

Spain have produced a complete team performance to overcome France. They controlled the game from start to finish, nullifying Les Blues' world-class forwards while playing with poise and verve in attack.

"We didn't play the match we wanted to play, whether tactically, technically, or in terms of our overall performance. When you don't do what you're supposed to do in a World Cup semi-final, you don't win. Spain stuck to their game plan. In terms of controlling the game, they're better than us; we weren't able to do that. There were too many technical errors. We didn't play the match we had prepared for; we let them dictate the tempo, and if Spain dictates the tempo with their ball control and overall level, it's difficult," Mbappe said after the match.

"It was up to us to change that. How? From the start, in our pressing, in the way we pressed them, we always found ourselves three against two in midfield, and against Spain, that's always difficult." 

France lost their first knockout match in the World Cup since the 2014 quarter-final against Germany (0-1). That makes 11 matches (10 wins, 1 draw). This was France's fourth defeat in the semi-finals of the World Cup (1958, 1982, 1986, 2026) in eight appearances. Moreover, this was the third consecutive elimination against Spain in the semi-finals of a competition after Euro 2024 (2-1) and the Nations League 2025 (5-4).

"We needed to play one-on-one; this is a team that doesn't like to run… When we won the ball back, the first passes, the first touches weren't worthy of a World Cup semi-final. It's a huge disappointment, of course, but if we're objective, we didn't put in all the necessary effort. I feel very disappointed; it was a dream for us to reach the final and give our country that chance to dream. 

"When you win, you hold your head high; when you lose, you have to keep it. I'm struggling to find the words. We'll have to pick ourselves up, go on holiday, and put this defeat behind us because other things will come up at club and international level," he added.

France will now play in the third-place playoff, which will be Didier Deschamps’ last game as coach. 

England marked two significant milestones as wicketkeeper-batter Jos Buttler became only the second English cricketer to play 200 One-Day Internationals, joining former captain Eoin Morgan (225 ODIs). Meanwhile, fast bowler Josh Tongue made his ODI debut for England, while left-arm spinner Liam Dawson celebrated his 50th international appearance across formats.

England captain Harry Brook said his side opted to bat first after winning the toss, believing the surface would favour batting early before offering assistance to the spinners later in the match. Brook said England would approach the ODI series with the same mindset as the T20s by quickly assessing conditions, maintaining clear communication and adapting as the game progresses. He added that having a largely similar squad across the two white-ball formats gives him confidence as captain and reflects the faith the team management has in the group. While acknowledging England's inconsistent ODI performances in recent years, Brook expressed hope that the team could "turn the page" and deliver consistent results, insisting they have the players to do so. He also confirmed England had gone in with a balanced bowling attack comprising two spinners and three seamers.

India captain Shubman Gill said he would have preferred to bowl first, noting that the conditions were more similar to those in South Africa than what India usually experiences at home. He added that the team wanted to use the series to give opportunities to players with limited ODI experience. Gill welcomed the return of several senior players, saying the presence of Virat Kohli, Rohit Sharma, KL Rahul and Jasprit Bumrah added valuable experience to the squad. Reflecting on his previous success in England, Gill said he had fond memories of the Test series and hoped to carry that form into the ODI campaign. He also confirmed India's team combination, with four seamers, including Shivam Dube, supported by spin duo Axar Patel and Washington Sundar.

Playing XIs:

India: Shubman Gill (c), Rohit Sharma, Virat Kohli, Shreyas Iyer (vc), Washington Sundar, KL Rahul (wk), Shivam Dube, Axar Patel, Gurnoor Brar, Jasprit Bumrah, Prasidh Krishna

England: Jacob Bethell, Ben Duckett, Joe Root, Harry Brook (c), Jos Buttler (wk), Sam Curran, Will Jacks, Jofra Archer, Liam Dawson, Josh Tongue, Adil Rashid

Seven teams will compete in each category, with the men's event featuring hosts Oman, India, Pakistan, Iran, Iraq, Saudi Arabia and Bangladesh. The women's competition will see India face Pakistan, Oman, China, Uzbekistan, Kazakhstan and Iran.

The Indian squads were selected from 15-member national camps currently underway in Chandigarh for the boys and Bhopal for the girls.

The Sub-Junior women's side will be led by Sweety Kujur and includes goalkeepers Khili Kumari and Mahak Parihar. Nilam Topno and Kiran Ekka have been named in defence, while Diya, Pushpa Manjhi and Shruti Kumari will operate in midfield. Nousheen Naz and Sandeepa Kumari complete the forward line alongside captain Sweety.

Speaking after the squad announcement, women's coach Rani expressed confidence in the team's preparations.

“We have selected a balanced squad with a good mix of skill, speed and character. The players have worked extremely hard during the preparatory camp and have shown great commitment to improving every aspect of their game.”

“Hockey5s is a fast-paced format that demands quick decision-making, adaptability and high energy, and we have focused on these areas throughout our preparations. This tournament will be a valuable platform for our young players to test themselves against some of the best teams in Asia. We are confident they will embrace the challenge, play fearless hockey and represent India with pride,” she added.

The Sub-Junior men's team will be captained by Ketan Kushwaha. The squad includes goalkeepers Sawan Kumar and Ayush Rajak, defenders Karan Gautam and Ashish Tani Purti, midfielders Rahul Yadav and Romit Pal, and forwards Prahalad Rajbhar, Arshdeep Singh and Shahrukh Ali.

Men's coach Sardar Singh believes the squad is well-equipped to make an impact in Oman.

“The squad has earned its place through consistent performances and a strong work ethic during the training camp. Hockey5s is an exciting format that rewards speed, creativity and composure under pressure, and the boys have adapted well to its unique demands. Our emphasis has been on building a cohesive unit that can execute our plans with confidence while playing an attacking brand of hockey. This championship is an excellent opportunity for these young players to gain international exposure and showcase their potential. We are looking forward to a strong performance and hope to make the country proud.”

With qualification for the inaugural FIH U18 Youth Hockey5s World Cup at stake, India will look to make a strong start in the first edition of the continental championship and continue its rich tradition of success in age-group hockey.

Indian squads for the Youth Hockey5s Asian Championship, Muscat 2026:

Sub-Jr Women

Goalkeepers: Khili Kumari, Mahak Parihar

Defenders: Nilam Topno, Kiran Ekka

Midfielders: Diya, Pushpa Manjhi, Shruti Kumari

Forwards: Nousheen Naz, Sandeepa Kumari, Sweety Kujur (c)

Sub-Jr Men

Goalkeepers: Sawan Kumar, Ayush Rajak

Defenders: Karan Gautam, Ashish Tani Purti

Midfielders: Rahul Yadav, Romit Pal

Forwards: Ketan Kushwaha (c), Prahalad Rajbhar, Arshdeep Singh, Shahrukh Ali

Neeru produced a composed display in the women's Trap final on Saturday, hitting 27 of her 30 targets at Trap Concaverde in Lonato to clinch her maiden ISSF World Cup title. The victory also marked the biggest international success of her career and strengthened India's growing reputation in international shotgun shooting.

Joining in the celebrations, Dhawan applauded Neeru's achievement with a message highlighting the rewards of perseverance.

“Jab mehnat nishane par lage, toh medal bhi sona hi hota hai (When hard work hits the target, the medal can only be gold). Bahut bahut badhai (Many congratulations) Neeru Dhanda on winning the World Cup trap gold. Proud moment for Indian sport,” Dhawan wrote on X.

Former India all-rounder Kedar Jadhav also praised the shooter for creating history, describing the feat as a landmark moment for Indian sport.

“Proud moment for Indian Sports! Huge congratulations to Neeru Dhanda on creating history by clinching the GOLD medal in the Shotgun Trap event at the #ISSFWorldCup2026! To become the first Indian woman to win an ISSF World Cup Gold is an extraordinary milestone. You have made the entire nation incredibly proud. Keep shining and firing, Neeru! Wishing you many more victories ahead,” Jadhav wrote on X.

Neeru remained composed throughout the medal round, delivering a consistent performance under pressure to finish atop the field with 27 hits from 30 targets. The triumph earned her a maiden ISSF World Cup gold and added another milestone to India's growing list of achievements on the international shooting circuit.

Widely regarded as one of the greatest cricketers of all time, Tendulkar was seen walking out and interacting with the Harmanpreet Kaur-led side, as well as the support staff members, to provide an unforgettable motivational boost, especially with India standing on the cusp of a famous Test victory on English soil.

“Wow, the day gets better and better if you're an Indian player, an Indian fan. The great man, the great man Sachin Tendulkar unannounced, has just popped in and he's decided to come over and chat with the Indian players. I mean, what a lift that is.

“They're about to win this historic Test match surely in the morning session and some incredible words there from Sachin. It is so good to see him here. It is so good to see him here involved in women's cricket as well. And what a moment that is for all those players,” said former England batter Nick Knight on air before the morning session began.

The timing of Tendulkar's surprise visit could not have been more perfect - India enters the final day of the first-ever women’s Test match in a dominant position – they need just four wickets to secure a monumental victory at the 'Home of Cricket.

On day three, after declaring their second innings at 341/7 in 86.3 overs, thanks to Yastika Bhatia’s historic 113, India then reduced England to 130/6 at stumps and put themselves on the doorstep of a famous victory. The final day's play is more of a matter of 'when' rather than 'if' for India to seal the match in their favour.

Thomas Tuchel’s men battled their way past Norway in the quarter-finals on, coming from 1-0 down to win 2-1 after extra-time courtesy of Jude Bellingham’s brace.

Andreas Schjelderup put Norway ahead in the first half when his delivery from the left flew across Jordan Pickford’s box and crashed off the far post before crossing the line.

Bellingham showed a moment of individual quality to pull England level before he prodded home from close range in extra time to complete the Three Lions' comeback and put them into just their third World Cup semi-final since 1966.

James, who returned to action from the bench against Norway, played a key role in defence and midfield after recovering from a hamstring injury picked up earlier in the tournament. And after helping the Three Lions reach their fourth World Cup semi-final, James opened up on what their progress in North America means to him

“This is what dreams are made of,” James said on the latest episode of Lions’ Den Connected by EE. “Everyone from a little boy dreamt of playing in a World Cup and this is part of the process. To play in a semi-final against one of the best nations.. we’re delighted to be here.”

Asked whether he’s able to enjoy moments like Bellingham’s double against Norway by host Andrew Mensah, James added, “It’s difficult in games. You might get 10 seconds to enjoy the moment then it’s gone. As soon as yesterday’s game finished, the focus is forward now. We don’t look back. We have a new challenge in a few days and we’re preparing for that already.”

England will take on Argentina in the last four in Atlanta on Thursday, with the winners going on to face either France or Spain in Sunday’s showpiece final.

Argentina are the defending world champions, but James is confident he and his team-mates can deal with the pressure of facing Lionel Messi and Co on football’s biggest stage.

"It comes with experience. Higher stakes the game is, usually the more pressure. But at the end of the day, this is what we’ve been doing for 20/25 years; playing football. So the fundamentals are the same, but the prize is slightly different," said James.

Delhi appeared headed for defeat after Ankur stunned experienced Indian paddler Sathiyan Gnanasekaran in straight games to hand Kolkata the advantage heading into the final rubber. However, Sutirtha responded with a commanding display against her long-time doubles partner Ayhika Mukherjee, winning all three games to complete a remarkable turnaround and preserve Delhi's unbeaten run this season.

The tie began with the two overseas singles fixtures. Egypt's Youssef Abdelaziz recovered from losing the opening game to defeat Romania's Eduard Ionescu 2-1, giving Delhi the early edge. Kolkata hit back immediately through Singapore's Zeng Jian, who edged Spain's Maria Xiao in a closely fought three-game contest to restore parity.

Delhi regained the initiative in the mixed doubles as Sathiyan and Maria Xiao defeated Ankur Bhattacharjee and Zeng Jian 2-1, ensuring the former champions carried a slender lead into the closing stages of the tie.

The momentum, however, shifted dramatically in the men's singles. Roared on by the crowd, Ankur produced one of the biggest upsets of the season by defeating Sathiyan 3-0. The youngster rallied from 3-9 down to snatch the opening game on Golden Point before dominating the second. Sathiyan forced another Golden Point in the third, but Ankur held his nerve again to complete an impressive straight-games victory, leaving Kolkata needing just one more game to clinch the tie.

With Delhi under immense pressure, Sutirtha rose to the occasion. She recovered from an early deficit to take the opening game 11-6, then dominated the second 11-2. Carrying the momentum into the third, she closed out an 11-7 victory over Ayhika to seal an 8-7 triumph for her side.

For her decisive performance, Sutirtha was named the Indian Player of the Tie, while Ankur Bhattacharjee claimed both the Player of the Tie and Shot of the Tie awards. Singapore's Zeng Jian received the Foreign Player of the Tie honour.

Earlier in the day, U Mumba TT continued their impressive run in the Dream UTT Juniors competition with a 7-2 victory over PBG Pune Jaguars, while Dempo Goa Challengers edged UP Prometheans 5-4, handing the latter their first defeat of the campaign.

England have already won the series via an unassailable 3-0 lead, and another victory over India will help them seal a clean sweep victory, as well as become the new top-ranked team in men’s T20Is.

India, meanwhile, will look to salvage some pride and conclude a difficult T20I leg on a high before heading into the three-match ODI series against England, starting on July 14 in Birmingham.

After winning the toss, skipper Shreyas Iyer, who’s won every coin flip so far on this tour, said Samson and Shedge have replaced Vaibhav Sooryavanshi and Washington Sundar in the playing eleven. "Today, based on the conditions, it's windy, and we had a chat before, and they said the wicket won't change that much, so we've elected to bowl first. 

"I just want to give 100 per cent effort today, irrespective of the result. I just want them to have a solid state of mind where they go in and just try to get the best out of themselves, rather than sulking or being in a situation where they're a bit ahead of the game. Be in the moment and just stop thinking about what's happened and what could happen."

England captain Harry Brook said left-arm spinner Liam Dawson has replaced leg-spinner Rehan Ahmed in their playing eleven. “We’d have had a bat, so we’re pretty happy. If we win today, we go to world No 1, so that’s at the back of our minds. But, as we’ve done all series, we want to adapt to the surface and communicate well.”

Playing XIs: 

India: Abhishek Sharma, Sanju Samson, Ishan Kishan (wk), Shreyas Iyer (captain), Tilak Varma, Shivam Dube, Suryansh Shedge, Axar Patel, Arshdeep Singh, Prince Yadav, and Prasidh Krishna

England: Philip Salt, Jos Buttler (wk), Harry Brook (captain), Jacob Bethell, Tom Banton, Sam Curran, Will Jacks, Liam Dawson, Jofra Archer, Adil Rashid, and Josh Tongue

Tendulkar and Gill were among the celebrities who visited Wimbledon on Friday, and both were welcomed by the Club. Tendulkar was accompanied by his wife, Anjali.

A picture of Gill with Anjali and Sachin Tendulkar sitting in the Royal Box was posted by the India Test and ODI captain via his official handle on X, which went viral, causing a lot of excitement among netizens as Gill is reported to be dating Tendulkar's daughter Sara. 

Earlier, the official handle of Wimbledon on X posted a photograph of Tendulkar watching the match from the Royal Box on Friday, rejoicing that the cricket royalty was spotted among the celebrities in the box.

"Cricket royalty returns to the Royal Box. Welcome back to Wimbledon, Sachin Tendulkar," said the official handle of Wimbledon in its post on X, formerly Twitter.

Gill is the fourth Indian captain to receive an invitation to watch Wimbledon from the Royal Box, after Tendulkar, Virat Kohli, and Rohit Sharma. He is also the fourth Indian cricketer to visit the hallowed grass courts of SW18 in 2026, joining the likes of Shikhar Dhawan, Deepti Sharma, and Sachin Tendulkar.

Another former cricket star, Brian Lara of the West Indies, was also in the Royal Box, an area reserved for special guests invited by the All England Club.

Both Gill and Tendulkar met many international celebrities during their time in the Royal Box. Gill met the Fashion ICON, Anna Wintour! 

Tendulkar, considered one of the greatest cricketers ever, retired in 2013 after playing in his 200th Test match at the Wankhede Stadium in Mumbai.

On Friday, Jannik Sinner defeated Novak Djokovic in the second semifinal to set up a summit clash with Alexander Zverev, who ended the dream run of British wildcard Arthur Fery.

Sophie Ecclestone and Mady Villiers ran through the middle order after Smriti Mandhana top-scored with 83 in what was also her 300th international appearance. In the process of picking a three-for, Sophie also became England’s highest wicket‑taker across formats, going past Katherine Sciver-Brunt, and climbed to third overall behind Deepti Sharma and Jhulan Goswami.

England’s reply began shakily with Tammy Beaumont, who’s playing her farewell international game, falling for two in the fourth over. But Maia Bouchier (17 not out) and Heather Knight (one not out) steadied the innings till stumps were called on the opening day. Sneh Rana found turn in her solitary over late in the evening, a sign that India’s spinners could have plenty to work with on day two.

In what is also the first-ever women’s Test to be played at the iconic venue, England picked up three crucial wickets in an action-packed first session. Opting to bowl first, England found immediate movement off the ball via Lauren Bell. India suffered an early blow in the second over when opener Shafali Verma was completely squared up by a sharp, short-of-length delivery from Lauren Filer and nicked behind to wicketkeeper Amy Jones for a duck.

Yastika Bhatia (12) joined Smriti and started confidently with a flurry of boundaries, while also surviving a close leg-before-wicket review on umpire's call off Bell. However, Bell redeemed herself soon after, cleaning up Yastika with a brilliant inswinger that nipped away to hit the off-stump.

Jemimah Rodrigues then partnered with Mandhana to steady the innings, capitalising heavily on a wayward English bowling display that lacked discipline. Smriti looked in sublime touch, punishing the loose balls and welcoming premier spinner Ecclestone into the attack with a massive slog-sweep over midwicket for six to close out the first hour.

Smriti then brought up a sparkling run-a-ball half-century off just 50 deliveries in the 16th over and got the distinction of getting the first-ever Women’s Test fifty at Lord’s. The dangerous 64-run third-wicket partnership was eventually broken against the run of play when Jemimah (35) chopped onto her stumps while going for an expansive drive against Issy Wong.

Captain Harmanpreet Kaur (14 not out) then joined Smriti to safely navigate the remaining overs, ensuring India walked into the lunch break as the happier side. While the first session majorly belonged to India, England's bowlers roared back into the contest in the post-lunch session by showing discipline in their bowling and picking up the crucial wickets of set batters Smriti and Harmanpreet, who compiled 58.

Resuming from 122/3 in 25 overs, Smriti and Harmanpreet frustrated the hosts by taking India past the 150-run mark. Smriti was in splendid touch, using her feet elegantly against Sophie and executing crisp pulls off the fast bowlers.

At the other end, Harmanpreet battled intensely through physical discomfort and needed continuous medical attention from the team physio for troubles in her hand and hamstring. Scoring mainly through the off-side, Harmanpreet reached her second Test half-century off 99 balls with a drive off Mady.

However, England’s persistence soon broke the 79-run stand off 155 balls against the run of play. Issy, operating with supreme control, induced a faint outside edge from Smriti, as she fell 17 short of a historic century after being caught neatly behind by a diving Amy Jones standing up to the stumps.

England also burned two unsuccessful reviews during the session - one for a caught-behind off Smriti and another off Deepti. Just as the session seemed to be closing out evenly, Mady tossed one up beautifully outside off, and lured Harmanpreet into an expansive drive before turning sharply through the gate to castle the skipper and give England more delight at the stroke of tea break.

The final session saw India suffer a spectacular slide by losing their last seven wickets for just 95 runs to end 15 runs short of 300, as Sophie and Mady shared five scalps between themselves. Resuming the post-tea session from 202/5, India desperately needed stability. However, the visitors suffered an early setback when aggressive wicketkeeper-batter Richa Ghosh (13) was cramped by pacer Lauren Filer and top-edged a short delivery straight to fine leg.

Deepti, who played a gritty 57 off 87 balls, laced with seven boundaries, tried to courageously hold the innings together. She employed the sweep shot to fantastic effect against the spinners and brought up a well-deserved half-century off 70 balls. Unfortunately, she completely lacked support from the lower order.

Mady continued her highly impressive debut by trapping Sneh (13) plumb lbw and breaking a brief period of resistance. Sophie then took complete charge by cleaning up the tail with ruthless efficiency. She trapped Sayali (1) lbw, before ending Deepti’s valiant knock, as she was caught by mid-wicket.

Sophie ultimately wrapped up the innings by castling Kranti (1) and getting a glowing reception from 10,768 fans at Lord’s, as she walked off the field as England’s all-time leading wicket-taker across all formats.

After bowling out India for 285, Maia and Tammy faced a testing 11-over spell from the Indian new-ball bowlers. Sayali Satghare opened the attack for India, starting with a no-ball, but quickly adjusted her line to test Maia with subtle away movement.

The breakthrough came in the fourth over when Kranti delivered a superb, incoming back-of-a-length delivery that kept low. Tammy (2) was caught completely in the crease and trapped plumb in front. The veteran chose not to review, though it was eventually hit by the stumps via the umpire’s call.

Kranti nearly handed India a massive second breakthrough in the eighth over when she hit Heather Knight on the pads. The vociferous appeal was turned down by the umpire, and India decided against using the Decision Review System (DRS). However, replays later confirmed the ball would have crashed into the leg stump, handing Heather a major reprieve.

Maia, meanwhile, held her ground watchfully and broke the shackles in the ninth over, dispatching a rare loose delivery from Sayali through mid-wicket for the first boundary of the innings.

Harmanpreet introduced spin in the penultimate over through Sneh Rana, who bowled a tidy maiden over. In the final over of the day, Maia capitalised on a stray delivery from Kranti by clipping through fine leg to finish unbeaten on 17 alongside Heather, who’s unconquered on one.

Brief scores: 

India 285 all out in 74.5 overs (Smriti Mandhana 83, Harmanpreet Kaur 58; Sophie Ecclestone 3-68, Issy Wong 2-41) lead England 21/1 in 11 overs (Maia Bouchier 17 not out; Kranti Gaud 1-8) by 264 runs

After suffering a crushing nine-wicket defeat in Bristol, Shreyas Iyer's side trail the five-match series 3-0, with the opening game having been washed out. They will look to avoid the whitewash on English soil for the first time and get a consolation win.

India's batting has let them down on the tour. After slipping to another shaky start in the 4th T20I, Iyer's unbeaten 80 almost single-handedly carried the visitors to 158/7. But the total proved nowhere near enough as Harry Brook and Phil Salt dismantled the attack with an unbeaten 151-run partnership, chasing the target with 37 balls to spare.

England, on the other side, is leaving no stones unturned to dismantle the visitors with sheer pace and an attacking mindset. Harry Brook's side is looking like a well-oiled machine, with both batters and bowlers contributing to their success.

India and England have faced each other in 34 T20Is, with India holding a narrow edge with 18 victories compared to England's 15 wins, while one match ended without a result. Their first-ever T20I meeting came on September 19, 2007, when India emerged victorious. The most recent encounter was on July 9, 2026, with England registering a comprehensive win to take an unassailable lead in the ongoing series.

When: Saturday, July 11 at 7:00 PM IST

Where: The Rose Bowl, Southampton

Where to watch: Sony Sports Network TV channels and live-streaming on JioHotstar

Squads:

India: Shreyas Iyer (c), Abhishek Sharma, Vaibhav Sooryavanshi, Ishan Kishan (wk), Tilak Varma, Shivam Dube, Axar Patel, Harshit Rana, Varun Chakravarthy, Arshdeep Singh, Ravi Bishnoi, Prasidh Krishna, Suryansh Shedge, Washington Sundar.

England: Harry Brook (c), Phil Salt, Jos Buttler (wk), Tom Banton, Jacob Bethell, Sam Curran, Will Jacks, Jofra Archer, Liam Dawson, Adil Rashid, Josh Tongue, Jordan Cox, Sonny Baker, Luke Wood, Saqib Mahmood, Rehan Ahmed, James Coles.

India once again endured a batting collapse before skipper Shreyas Iyer rescued the innings with a fighting 80 off 49 balls. But no other Indian batter managed to make a significant contribution as the visitors finished on 158/7 in 20 overs.

Chasing a modest target of 159, England lost Jos Buttler early, but thereafter India had no answers as Brook and Salt stitched together an unbroken 151-run stand for the second wicket as England raced to 159/1 in just 13.5 overs, winning with 37 balls to spare.

This is the first time England have beaten India in a bilateral T20I series of two or more games. India have won five of the previous six, while one ended in a draw. India’s last two defeats in a bilateral series against England (any format) had come on the 2018 tour (by 2-1 in ODIs and by 4-1 in Tests). Post then, until before the ongoing one, they had won eight out of 10, with the last two Test series in the country ending in draws (both 2-2). 

"Again, it was a disappointing one. Definitely, 158 wasn't the perfect total on the board. And eventually we saw how quickly they chased down. When we came on to bowling, I just asked our bowlers to repeat the lengths as much as possible because top of middle-stump and leg-stump, it was very difficult to hit and score boundaries off that. So I think we fell a bit short in terms of our execution. And, yeah, we saw that when we were changing the pace, when we were trying something else, they scored off those loose balls, Iyer said after the match.

Shreyas Iyer rescued the innings with a fighting 80 off 49 balls. Walking in after the fall of early wickets, Iyer anchored the innings almost single-handedly, striking four fours and five sixes.  

Reflecting on his own performance, Iyer said personal performances mattered little without a victory. "Definitely happy with my performance, but see, if it's not on the winning cause, it just goes to the side. So disappointed on that aspect because whenever I play, I want to perform and see to it that my team wins. But unfortunately, today wasn't that day. Definitely look forward in the next game," he said.

Iyer further said the Indian side is currently in transition phase and backed the players to learn from their mistakes. "See, this is the transition phase and we will be making lot of mistakes. You see a lot of youngsters playing here in these conditions for the first time. So mistakes will definitely make them realize how important it is to adapt and have that awareness when you come in the overseas conditions," said Iyer.

"It's important that you learn quickly from your mistakes so that the team also benefits eventually out of it. And I'm sure that there are quick learners in the team. I'm sure they will assess themselves and get back stronger in the next game," he conluded.

Before the ongoing season, India had won 11 of their last 12 bilateral T20I series, while the one in South Africa in December 2023 ended in a 1-1 draw.

The 27-year-old achieved the historic feat during France’s 2-0 quarter-final victory over Morocco at the Boston Stadium, where he recovered from a first-half penalty miss to score in the 60th minute before setting up teammate Ousmane Dembele for the second.

While Argentina’s Lionel Messi is the outright record holder for FIFA World Cup appearances with 30, Mbappe has become France's first-most capped player in the competition with 20 appearances. He is level with Hugo Lloris and ahead of Antoine Griezmann, Olivier Giroud and Raphael Varane. 

With his eighth goal of the ongoing 2026 tournament, Mbappe has now taken his overall World Cup tally to 20 goals in just 20 appearances across three editions (2018, 2022, and 2026), just one goal shy of equalling Messi (21) for the most goals scored in the history of the competition.

France's all-time leading goalscorer Kylian Mbappe has cemented his place among the greatest players in FIFA World Cup history across his appearances at three editions of the tournament. He features prominently in numerous all-time rankings and boasts an impressive collection of individual records.

After France's 3-0 victory over Sweden at World Cup 2026, the 27-year-old Frenchman became the French player with the most wins in the tournament's history (15). His 16th triumph, against Paraguay, saw him draw level with Brazil's Cafu on the all-time list. Against Morocco in the quarter-final, he levelled with Miroslav Klose with 17 wins. Only Lionel Messi (20 wins) remains ahead of him.

With eight knockout-stage goals to his name before the 2026 tournament, Mbappe was level with Brazil's Leonidas and Ronaldo. His brace against Sweden in France's 3-0 win in New Jersey took him clear at the top of the all-time ranking, before he extended the record to 11 goals with another against Paraguay and to 12 against Morocco.

Morocco head coach Mohammed Ouabhi confirmed Saibari's exit in the pre-match press conference on Thursday. According to Ouabhi, the forward could not recover on time after picking a hamstring injury during Morocco's round of 16 victory against Canada. However, the coach is hopeful that the 25-year-old will be fit for the semi-finals if their team makes the cut. 

"He's not ready, but I hope it's not the end of the tournament for him," Ouahbi told reporters ahead of the clash.

Saibari is one of the top performers for the African side in the ongoing tournament. He scored a goal in all three group stage matches and also converted the penalty in the decisive shootout against the Netherlands in the round of 32. His absence will force Morocco to adopt a more defensive approach against the 2022 World Cup runners-up. 

FIFA has sparked a massive debate ahead of the World Cup quarter-finals by appointing an entirely Argentine officiating crew for France's clash against Morocco, marking the first time in the 2026 tournament that a match will be handled exclusively by officials from a single nation. However, Morocco's coach has downplayed the impact of the officials.

"Regarding the referees... we're talking about a very experienced referee," he said at his pre-match news conference. "That's what we want. We want experienced referees for these types of matches. So we're very calm."

"We had a Dutch referee before facing the Netherlands, and he did very well. So that's not something we really talk about because we know that they're just trying to do their best. The referee we'll have against France is not so quick to give bookings, and that can have an impact, but I would not say anything against the quality of the referees," he added.

France and Morocco have played each other six times across all competitions, with France holding the advantage with four wins, one draw, and one win for Morocco. Both teams played in the historic 2022 World Cup semi-final, where the Atlas Lions suffered a 2-0 defeat and were knocked out of their first semi-final in FIFA World Cup history.

England, who hold a 2-0 lead after the opening match was washed out, produced a record 125-run victory in the third T20I, India's biggest-ever defeat in the format, with the performances reflected in the weekly rankings update.

Jacob Bethell was among the biggest movers, climbing seven places to No. 8 in the T20I batting rankings after his unbeaten 76 off 46 balls guided England to victory in the second T20I.

Sam Curran enjoyed gains across all three disciplines after claiming 3/33 in the second match before smashing an unbeaten 41 in England's emphatic win in the third. He rose 12 places to No. 108 in the T20I batting rankings, climbed 12 spots to joint 71st among bowlers, and advanced six places to joint 13th in the all-rounders' list.

Veteran leg-spinner Adil Rashid moved up one place to No. 3 in the T20I bowling rankings after returning figures of 2/14 in the third T20I, while pacer Josh Tongue, who claimed four wickets in only his second T20I appearance, entered the rankings at joint 301st.

Will Jacks also made progress after contributing with the ball during the series, climbing six places to break into the top 10 of the T20I all-rounders' rankings at No. 7.

Despite India's difficult start under new T20I captain Shreyas Iyer, the batter made a massive leap of 425 places to joint 93rd in the batting rankings after scoring 68 in the rain-hit opening game and 37 in the second match.

In the Test rankings, Sri Lanka opener Lahiru Udara climbed 52 places to No. 85 after registering a career-best 188 against the West Indies in the second Test, while Kamindu Mendis moved up two places to sixth following his aggregate of 128 runs in the drawn match.

Fast bowler Asitha Fernando, who claimed the only five-wicket haul of the Test, advanced two places to No. 20 in the bowling rankings.

For the West Indies, Justin Greaves jumped 14 places to No. 49 after his fighting 180 helped the hosts secure a draw and seal the Sobers-Tissera Trophy, while Shai Hope rose six places to No. 51 following his century.

The ODI rankings also witnessed notable movement after Zimbabwe's opening win over Bangladesh in Harare. Bangladesh pacer Nahid Rana climbed 17 places to No. 12 in the ODI bowling rankings after producing career-best figures of 6/21.

Zimbabwe's pace trio also reaped rewards for defending 141 successfully. Richard Ngarava improved one place to No. 19, Brad Evans jumped 17 spots to No. 111, while Blessing Muzarabani also climbed 17 places to No. 33 in the ODI bowling rankings.

Saini began the race from Astoria, Oregon, on June 7 and reached the historic Lincoln Memorial in Washington on July 5 after covering nearly 3,500 miles (about 5,630 km) through 11 US states. The event attracted around 30 cyclists from across the world, including riders from the United States, Europe and two from India.

The Trans Am Bike Race is consideres as one of the world's toughest unsupported cycling events wherein participants carry their own equipment, arrange their own food and accommodation, and ride virtually non-stop across the United States without support crews.

Speaking to IANS after completing the race, Saini described the ride as far more demanding than he had expected.

"When the Trans Am Bike Race started, on the second day itself I realised that this was something else," he said, recalling rapidly changing weather, mountain climbs, heavy rain, gravel roads and long stretches without settlements. He said riders encountered temperatures as low as five degrees Celsius, rode through forests, rain and unpaved roads, making the challenge unlike anything he had experienced before.

Travelling through rural America left a lasting impression on him.

"I have seen that America's geographical area is so vast," he said, adding that while riding on country roads he often travelled for kilometres without seeing another person. Small villages with only a handful of residents, he said, offered a perspective that tourists visiting major cities rarely experience.

Saini said people in small American towns recognised India from the Indian jersey he wore during the race.

"They know India very well," he said, adding that many people immediately associated India with Prime Minister Narendra Modi and were eager to ask questions about the country. He said hearing such comments in remote parts of the United States made him feel proud as an Indian.

The cyclist also highlighted the logistical challenges of an unsupported race. Carrying only essential clothing, tools and supplies on his bicycle, he depended largely on petrol station convenience stores for food. As a vegetarian, he said finding suitable meals was often difficult, forcing him to rely on bread, cheese, nachos, chocolates and biscuits during long sections where no towns were available.

Reflecting on his motivation, Saini said cycling allowed him to experience countries beyond their famous landmarks.

"If you want to explore the world, there cannot be a better way than cycling," he said. He also urged people to prioritise their health, saying, "Health should be the first priority."

The Trans Am Bike Race is an annual self-supported endurance event that follows a transcontinental route across the United States. Riders are responsible for navigation, food, repairs and rest, with no outside assistance permitted. Completing the race requires sustained physical endurance, mental resilience and careful logistical planning.

The ICC Chair presented the trophy to captain Sophie Molineux, who lifted the T20 World Cup title just six months into her tenure as captain. After surrendering both the 20- and 50-over titles over the past two years, Australia reasserted themselves as the world's best team, securing their 14th white-ball title.

“Congratulations to Cricket Australia on winning their seventh ICC Women’s T20 World Cup title with another incredible campaign. Huge credit to England cricket too - fantastic runners-up but champions in spirit. This tournament reminded us why women’s cricket is unmissable - power, passion, and pure class on display from start to finish. Thank you to both teams and everyone who made this World Cup so special. Women’s cricket is in a golden era,” Jay Shah posted on X.

In front of a 28,000-plus record crowd at the Lord's Cricket Ground, Australia wrapped up their invincible run at the tournament in style, restricting England to 150 after electing to bowl and then chased down the target in 17.1 overs with Beth Mooney leading the way scoring 64 runs.

An emphatic win to seal an emphatic tournament, as Australia returned to the summit of T20 cricket after three years. In doing so, they broke a streak of rotten luck at World Cups on UK shores dating all the way back to the 1993.

England, who were playing their first T20 World Cup final in eight years, previously won all four of the Women's World Cups (50-over and T20) they had hosted; but Australia had won all six of the finals (50-over and T20) the two nations had contested.

Ishan Kishan scored 49 and, along with skipper Shreyas Iyer (37) and Abhishek Sharma (43), helped India post a challenging 190/7 upon electing to bat first at Old Trafford on Saturday. However, England rode on an unbeaten 76 from Jacob Bethell to overhaul the target and reach 191/6 in 19 overs, recovering from a precarious 1/2 and 51/3 for a four-wicket win. The key to India's defeat was the 17th over bowled by Ravi Bishnoi that cost 29 runs as the leggie finished with figures of 4-0-60-0.

Asked whether India needed an off-spinner to capitalise on the situation in the middle and lower-order, Ishan Kishan said the bowlers picked for the match were "quality bowlers," and all this talk was conjecture.

"No, I mean, we played for a perfect team, you know. It's just that when you don't win, there are a lot of thoughts coming in, a lot of ifs and buts are coming in. But at the same time, I feel all of them were very good bowlers who have done well in the past, who have made their team win in different situations. Even bowling on very flat tracks and still getting wickets. So, I don't think we could have done anything different looking at the team side," said Ishan Kishan in the post-match press conference.

Kishan, however, admitted that the team has to consider how it can improve its performance, taking the conditions into account.

"Yeah, like I said, we need to just understand what conditions are and how we can improve, what we can do better. You know, thoughts will keep coming in. But at the end of the day, we just need to understand the situation, like we are playing outside India, and what the pitch requires from us as a batter and as a bowler. Not only one batter or one bowler can, you know, just make the difference. But as a group, I feel we need to just understand more, like where we can get better," he added.

Kishan came in at one down as India went in with 15-year-old opener Vaibhav Sooryavanshi in the second match. The first match was abandoned without a ball being bowled in the second innings after India posted 189/7 in the rain-hit match.

Pointing out that the team has been losing momentum in the backend and falling short by 15-20 runs from what they could have in both times they batted in this series, the Jharkhand wicketkeeper-batter said the team has to improve, and said all batters would have to think about where they can score those 20-plus runs.

He said they will have to look at the hosts' batters to understand what they are doing better because they know the conditions better.

"100%, I mean, yes. Obviously, you know, they'll have the best choice of bowling, where to pick up, which bowler to put (under pressure), and which batsman to put (under pressure). They understand the condition better than we do. But at the same time, you know, as I said, I mean, everyone's answer is the same. Like, we are all looking to improve.

"We are all looking to understand what these guys are doing against us. Like, when we play in India, we have more ideas about the wicket. So, here, obviously, every batter needs to understand, as a team, like, where we can, you know, get those extra 20 runs, whether it's by scoring boundaries or, because it's a big ground, you need to take those, whether you have to target the gaps. So, these are a few things I feel we'll talk about as a group, we'll understand, and we'll get better with time," he said.

The four nominees have been instrumental in their respective teams' fortunes, with finalists Australia and England accounting for two of the contenders, while Mandhana and Kapp earned recognition despite their sides falling short of the title clash.

Ellyse Perry (Australia)

Perry has enjoyed another stellar ICC event, scoring 185 runs at an average of 46.25 and claiming four wickets at 7.50. The veteran all-rounder collected three Player of the Match awards during Australia's unbeaten march to the final, beginning with an all-round display against Bangladesh, where she picked up two wickets before finishing unbeaten on 19.

The 35-year-old followed that with successive half-centuries against Pakistan and India, helping Australia maintain a perfect record and secure a place in Sunday's final.

Danni Wyatt-Hodge (England)

England's Danni Wyatt-Hodge heads into the final as the tournament's leading run-scorer, amassing 294 runs at an impressive average of 73.5. Her campaign began spectacularly with a century against Sri Lanka in the opening match before she added two more half-centuries to power England into the title decider.

Wyatt-Hodge has also provided consistently brisk starts for the hosts, striking at 152.33 throughout the tournament.

Smriti Mandhana (India)

India's Smriti Mandhana is the lone nominee from a side that failed to reach the semi-finals. The left-handed opener scored 205 runs at an average of 41, including back-to-back fifties against Pakistan and the Netherlands to launch India's campaign in style.

Mandhana also contributed a fluent 38 against Australia in a must-win final group-stage fixture, though India eventually fell short of securing a semi-final berth.

Marizanne Kapp (South Africa) 

Completing the shortlist is South Africa's Marizanne Kapp, whose all-round contributions once again proved invaluable for the Proteas. Kapp scored 124 runs at 31 and claimed eight wickets at an average of 14.37 during South Africa's run to the semi-finals.

Her defining performance came against India, where she claimed two wickets before steering South Africa's chase with an unbeaten 81 to keep her side's knockout hopes alive. The experienced all-rounder also showcased remarkable consistency with the ball, taking at least one wicket in every match except South Africa's group-stage fixture against the Netherlands.

The winner of the Player of the Tournament award will be announced following Sunday's Women's T20 World Cup final between England and Australia at Lord's.

--IANS

Under new coach Frederic Soyez, the team will play six matches against Austria, Belgium, Germany, and the Netherlands as part of its preparations for key upcoming international competitions, including the Junior Asia Cup.

India will play two matches each against Austria and Belgium, along with one match each against Germany and the Netherlands. Five matches will be played at the Belfius Hockey Arena in Wavre, while the final fixture against the Netherlands will be held at the Hockey Centre of Excellence in Antwerp.

The tour will be the team's first assignment under newly appointed coach Frederic Soyez and will serve as a key preparatory phase ahead of the FIH Hockey Men's Junior Asia Cup later this year.

The exposure tour is expected to provide valuable international match experience while helping the young Indian side test its combinations and playing style ahead of the continental tournament.

Defender Anmol Ekka has been entrusted with the captaincy for the upcoming exposure tour. The goalkeeping unit comprises Vivek Lakra and Kunal Tewatia. The defensive line features captain Anmol Ekka, Rohit Kullu, Chirag, Ravinder, Prasant Barla, Sanjit Tirkey, and V. Manimaran.

The midfield will be occupied by Adrohit Ekka, Harpal, Jeetpal, Mukesh Toppo, Mannu Malik, and Ritik Lakra. The forward line consists of Ajeet Yadav, Prabhdeep Singh, Arjun Hargude, Aryan Xess, Lovenoor Singh, and Mohd. Konain Dad and Gurusewak Singh.

Notably, four members of the squad - Anmol Ekka, Adrohit Ekka, Ajeet Yadav, and Rohit Kullu - were also part of the Indian team that secured the bronze medal at the FIH Men's Junior World Cup Tamil Nadu 2025. Their international experience is expected to add valuable depth to the squad during the tour.

The squad: 

Goalkeepers: Vivek Lakra, Kunal Tewatia

Defenders: Anmol Ekka, Rohit Kullu, Chirag, Ravinder, Prasant Barla, Sanjit Tirkey, V. Manimaran

Midfielders: Adrohit Ekka, Harpal, Jeetpal, Mukesh Toppo, Mannu Malik, Ritik Lakra

Forwards: Ajeet Yadav, Prabhdeep Singh, Arjun Hargude, Aryan Xess, Lovenoor Singh, Mohd. Konain Dad, Gurusewak Singh

Sooryavanshi, 15, etched his name into the annals of cricketing history by making his highly-anticipated international debut during the second T20I against England at Old Trafford on Saturday. At 15 years and 99 days, Sooryavanshi was handed his maiden cap by vice-captain Tilak Varma, thus becoming the youngest-ever Indian cricketer to debut in international cricket.

Eventually, Sooryavanshi, playing at the expense of Sanju Samson, made 14 before being stumped off the bowling of Will Jacks. "Today will be remembered as a golden day in the history of Bihar cricket. Vaibhav Sooryavanshi representing India at such a young age is a matter of immense pride for the entire state.

“Through his hard work, discipline, and exceptional talent, he has proved that no dream is impossible when dedication meets opportunity. By surpassing the record of the legendary Sachin Tendulkar, he has created history.

“On behalf of the Bihar Cricket Association, I extend my heartfelt congratulations to Vaibhav and his family and wish him a long, successful, and illustrious international career," Vardhan said in a BCA statement on Saturday.

In doing so, Sooryavanshi has shattered long-standing benchmarks of the legendary Sachin Tendulkar and Shafali Verma, who was previously the youngest cricketer to play T20Is for India in both men’s and women’s circuit.

Tendulkar had famously made his international debut for India in a Test match against Pakistan in Karachi back in November 1989 at the age of 16 years and 205 days. Meanwhile, Shafali was 15 years and 239 days old when she earned her maiden T20I cap against South Africa in Surat in 2019.

Echoing Vardhan’s sentiments, BCA Secretary Ziaul Arfin highlighted that Sooryavanshi's meteoric rise reflects the steady progression and overhaul of grassroots cricket infrastructure in the state.

"Vaibhav Suryavanshi's international debut for India is not just an individual achievement but the outcome of years of hard work and the steady development of cricket in Bihar. The history he has created today will inspire young cricketers in every district of the state.

“By reaching the international stage at such a young age, he has shown that with the right platform and proper guidance, talent can achieve global recognition. The Bihar Cricket Association is immensely proud of Vaibhav and wishes him a long, successful, and distinguished international career," he added.

Leading the side in the series opener at Chester-le-Street, Iyer struck 68 off 47 deliveries to anchor India’s innings after the visitors were reduced to 6/2 inside the first two overs. His knock, along with Abhishek Sharma’s explosive 59 off just 24 balls and Shivam Dube’s unbeaten 42 off 21 deliveries, helped India recover to post a competitive 189/7.

However, persistent rain after the completion of India’s innings prevented England from beginning their chase, forcing the match to be abandoned without a result.

Reflecting on Iyer’s innings, Parthiv said the India skipper displayed excellent awareness by complementing Abhishek’s aggressive approach instead of looking for big hits himself. “Those raising questions over Shreyas Iyer would have felt a lot more relieved after this innings. As a player, Shreyas Iyer doesn’t have to worry about anything. He’s a proven performer in this format. It was a very important innings because India had lost two early wickets, while at the other end, Abhishek Sharma was batting quite aggressively. So, Shreyas had to play the second fiddle rather than rely too much on hitting sixes, which is something every Indian player is so used to from playing in the IPL," Parthiv told Jio Hotstar.

“You have to rotate the strike, and score boundaries along the ground. I thought it was a masterclass from Shreyas Iyer, understanding the situation and the dimensions of the ground. That’s something both the captain and the Indian team would have learned from those two games against Ireland,” he added.

Patel also felt India’s batting display was an important step forward after an inconsistent start to the tour during the two T20Is against Ireland, saying the innings showed the team’s ability to adapt to different conditions.

“The way India’s first two games against Ireland went, it was important for India to produce this kind of batting performance. There were obviously doubts about whether India could adapt to certain conditions and whether they could change their game plan. Looking at those games in Ireland, in my opinion, this innings was necessary for India, where you see a complete batting performance.”

India and England will now clash in Manchester in the second T20I at Emirates Old Trafford, with the five-match series still level after the rain washed out the opener.

Deepti, who is attending Wimbledon for the first time, shared her thoughts on how Dhoni, like Djokovic, handles pressure with calmness. "When you talk about Djokovic, everyone speaks about his mental strength. He is someone who never gives up, no matter how tough the situation is. In cricket, I think MS Dhoni sir is very similar. He is known for being very cool and calm. Whenever pressure situations come, he handles them really well. It never looks like he is in a difficult situation. He handles pressure so easily," Deepti told Jio Hotstar.

"Both Djokovic and Dhoni have that rare quality of staying calm and strong when it matters the most. Watching them, we learn how to stay calm and find a way out of tough situations," she added.

The Indian all-rounder also revealed that watching a Wimbledon match in person had been a bucket-list wish for years.

"My dream was that one day I would come to watch a Wimbledon match, and it feels really good to finally be here. When you go to watch a match at an iconic venue like this, and when you have always seen it on TV but today you are seeing it live for the first time, it feels amazing. The atmosphere, the crowd, the energy – everything is different. I am really enjoying watching tennis at Wimbledon. It just feels great," she said.

Deepti also named Djokovic as the player she admires the most, praising the Serbian's resilience and competitive spirit.

"My favourite is Djokovic. I follow his game very closely. The way he fights on the court, his mental strength, and his never-give-up attitude, I really admire all of that. Watching him play is always inspiring," she said.

"I grew up watching greats like Federer and Nadal. I followed their matches closely for a long time. But lately, Djokovic has become my favourite. I follow his matches more than anyone else now," Deepti said.

Asked whom she would like to accompany her for a day at Wimbledon, Deepti named three Indian cricket legends.

"I would choose three people to take with me: Sachin Tendulkar sir, Ravi Shastri sir, and Sunil Gavaskar sir. They are all legends in their own right, and I think watching tennis with them would be a great experience. They have so much knowledge about sports, and I would love to hear their thoughts and analysis while watching the matches," she said.

Deepti is the second Indian cricketer to visit Wimbledon in two days. On Wednesday, former India opener Shikhar Dhawan made an appearance at the Centre Court at the All-England Club.

Kishan attained a new career-best rating to move ahead of Abhishek after the latest ICC rankings update released on Wednesday, following India's 2-0 T20I series defeat to Ireland in Belfast.

The left-handed batter's rise to the summit has been fuelled by his outstanding performances at the ICC T20 World Cup earlier this year, where he amassed 317 runs at a strike rate of almost 200. His campaign included a Player of the Match-winning knock against Pakistan in Colombo.

Abhishek, who had occupied the No.1 spot for almost 12 months, now trails Kishan by just seven rating points. Kishan also joins an elite list featuring Virat Kohli and Suryakumar Yadav as only the fourth Indian men's batter to achieve the No.1 ranking in T20I cricket.

Among other movers in the T20I batting rankings, Ireland captain Lorcan Tucker jumped four places to equal 77th, while Ross Adair climbed six spots to 84th after impressive performances against India.

Ireland seamer Matthew Humphreys moved up one place to 25th in the T20I bowling rankings after claiming four wickets in the series, earning a career-best rating. In the T20I all-rounders' rankings, India's Shivam Dube rose three places to seventh, while Ireland's Gareth Delany and Harry Tector climbed to 24th and 38th respectively.

There were significant changes in the ICC Test rankings as well, with Australia's Travis Head becoming the world's No.1 Test batter for the first time in his career.

Head replaced England's Harry Brook at the top after Brook and Joe Root endured modest returns in the Nottingham Test against New Zealand. Brook slipped to second while Root dropped two places to third

India pace spearhead Jasprit Bumrah also regained sole possession of the No.1 ranking among Test bowlers after New Zealand fast bowler Matt Henry slipped to second.

New Zealand's victory over England at Trent Bridge also resulted in major gains for several of their batters. Rachin Ravindra climbed two places to seventh, Daryl Mitchell advanced five spots to 11th, Devon Conway surged 14 places to equal 15th, and Tom Latham rose 12 places to equal 31st in the Test batting rankings.

New Zealand pacer Nathan Smith improved eight places to 38th in the Test bowling rankings, while England captain Ben Stokes moved up two places to finish his international career at No.3 among Test all-rounders following his mid-match retirement.

West Indies fast bowlers Shamar Joseph and Kemar Roach were also rewarded for their performances in the victory over Sri Lanka in Antigua. Joseph climbed nine places to equal 14th in the Test bowling rankings, while Roach rose four spots to 17th.

--IANS