Editorji is a popular short video news and information platform based in India. It was founded in 2018 by Vikram Chandra, one of India’s leading journalists, and has risen to prominence in the digital news space in a relatively short span of time. The platform is primarily designed for mobile devices, with applications available for Android and iOS.

ABOUT US:

about us editorji

Latest Video News: Editorji provides the latest news video headlines, latest videos clip from India and the World. Get all breaking news videos on Entertainment, Business, Coronavirus, Elections, Politics and more.

Latest Video News, Breaking News, Bollywood, Political, Sports, Business News | Editorji

+91 11 4035 6666 / info@editorji.com
3rd floor, Plot B, Khasara no 360, Sultanpur, New Delhi, Delhi 110030
<a title="mail to us" href="mailto:info@editorji.com">Send Feedback</a>
<a title="Contact Us" href="mailto:info@editorji.com">Contact Us</a>

REACH US

Contact for any questions, suggestions, comments, feedback or advertisement on Editorji.com, we are always looking forward to hearing from you.

Contact Us for Feedback, Suggestions and Advertising 

Editorji content is better experienced in our app.

More Sports news

Jannik Sinner clinched his third Grand Slam title at 23, beating Zverev in Australian Open. Despite facing doping controversy, he shows unmatched talent and potential.

Jannik Sinner: Truly ‘Sin-sensational’!

At 23, Jannik Sinner wins his third Grand Slam, beating Zverev in the Australian Open final. Despite doping appeal challenges, his on-court prowess is unmatched.

Jannik Sinner claimed his third Grand Slam title. Challenges loom with doping appeals in 2024, but his prowess on the court continues to impress.

Jannik Sinner is making tennis history with every tournament he plays. At just 23, the world number one won his third Grand Slam title by defeating Alexander Zverev 6-3, 7-6 (7-4), 6-3 in the Australian Open final. With this win, he became the first Italian man to win three major titles, cementing his place as one of the sport&rsquo;s brightest stars.&nbsp;
15 Months of Dominance
Sinner&rsquo;s rise over the past 15 months has been incredible. Many fans will remember the moment in October 2023 when he was visibly sick and vomiting courtside during a match at the China Open. Despite this, Sinner won that match...the tournament, and has been almost unstoppable ever since.
His maturity has been a big part of his success. Co-coach Darren Cahill praised him, saying, &ldquo;Sometimes you don&rsquo;t believe he&rsquo;s only 23. He&rsquo;s more mature than his age.&rdquo;
<img src="https://cdn.editorji.com/679737cf5b1f0_1737963471.jpeg" width="365" height="205">
His stats say the same story. &nbsp;In 2024, Sinner saved 73.7% of break-points and ranked second for tie-break wins (75%). His serve has also improved significantly, with a 29% increase in aces compared to the year before.
What truly sets Sinner apart is his ability to shine in big moments. He hasn&rsquo;t faced a single break point in his last 10 straight-set wins against top-10 opponents&mdash;a record unmatched since ATP rankings began in 1973.
What&rsquo;s Next for Sinner?
However, Sinner&rsquo;s future isn&rsquo;t entirely certain. In 2024, he tested positive for the banned substance Clostebol. While an independent tribunal cleared him of any wrongdoing, the World Anti-Doping Agency (WADA) has appealed the decision. A hearing in April will determine if he faces a ban.
Despite the uncertainty, Sinner continues to thrive under pressure. His coach Simone Vagnozzi believes Sinner performs best in challenging situations, saying, &ldquo;He likes to be in a storm.&rdquo; As tennis legend Pat Cash put it, &ldquo;Sinner, if he&rsquo;s not already, is going to be one of the greatest players we&rsquo;ve ever seen.&rdquo; While questions linger off the court, Sinner&rsquo;s dominance on it leaves no doubt about his potential to shape the future of men&rsquo;s tennis.

Sunrisers Hyderabad's Adam Zampa, facing a recurring shoulder injury, exits IPL 2025. SRH names R Smaran as his replacement. Zampa expected back for Australia's T20I series against the West Indies.

Adam Zampa Out of IPL 2025 Due to Injury

Adam Zampa ruled out of IPL 2025 due to a persistent shoulder injury. Impacting SRH's lineup, he's replaced by R Smaran. Zampa's vital role in Australia’s cricket to resume by July for T20 series against the West Indies.

Adam Zampa has been ruled out of IPL 2025 due to a recurring shoulder injury and has returned to Australia for further assessment. He played just two matches for Sunrisers Hyderabad before experiencing discomfort.&nbsp;

Sunrisers Hyderabad&rsquo;s Australian leg-spinner Adam Zampa has been ruled out of the remainder of IPL 2025 following a flare-up of a lingering shoulder injury.
Zampa featured in SRH's opening two matches this season, coming in as the Impact Player.
He picked up 1 for 48 and 1 for 46 in what were two incredibly high-scoring encounters &mdash; including the record-breaking clash between SRH and Rajasthan Royals that saw a combined total of 528 runs.
However, the 32-year-old soon experienced discomfort in his bowling shoulder, which forced him out of the next four games.
The injury is understood to be a recurrence of the shoulder issue Zampa dealt with before the 2023 ODI World Cup.
Despite that setback, he made a remarkable recovery last year and emerged as the tournament&rsquo;s second-highest wicket-taker, playing a crucial role in Australia&rsquo;s title-winning campaign.
While there was some hope that Zampa could return to the IPL after a short rest and recovery period, SRH have decided to move forward and named 21-year-old Karnataka batter R Smaran as his replacement in the squad. Zampa has now returned home to Australia for further medical evaluation.
He is not expected to take the field again until Australia&rsquo;s T20I series against West Indies in the Caribbean, scheduled for late July.
He remains a vital component of Australia&rsquo;s white-ball setup, especially with the T20 World Cup less than a year away, to be jointly hosted by India and Sri Lanka. The team is set to play 19 T20Is between July and February as part of their preparation for the marquee event.

KL Rahul celebrated a significant IPL win inspired by the film 'Kantara' at Chinnaswamy. His 93* against RCB highlights his deep ties to the stadium.

KL Rahul's 'Kantara' Celebration in IPL

KL Rahul, inspired by 'Kantara', celebrated DC's victory against RCB at Chinnaswamy. His knock of 93* was a masterclass, showcasing his deep stadium connection.

KL Rahul celebrated a key IPL victory against RCB at Chinnaswamy, drawing inspiration from 'Kantara'. His performance included a brilliant 93* run chase, reinforcing his deep connection to his home stadium.

Delhi Capitals' wicketkeeper-batter KL Rahul, renowned for his usually calm on-field demeanor, broke character with an animated celebration after his team&rsquo;s pivotal victory over Royal Challengers Bangalore (RCB) in the IPL.
The celebration, which has since gone viral, was inspired by the 2022 Kannada film "Kantara"&mdash;a movie Rahul holds dear. The cinematic gesture seemed to declare the M Chinnaswamy Stadium, a ground intrinsic to Rahul&rsquo;s cricketing journey, as his own.
"This ground is special to me," Rahul explained in a video shared by DC. "The celebration was inspired by one of my favorite movies, Kantara. It was a reminder that this ground, this turf, is mine."
In "Kantara," a character famously plants a sword into the ground, a visual that Rahul mirrored by emphatically thumping his chest and pointing towards the pitch and his jersey.
Rahul&rsquo;s connection to the Chinnaswamy Stadium runs deep. As a Karnataka native, he honed his skills here and had stints with RCB during the 2013 and 2016 IPL seasons.
At this venue, his T20 record speaks volumes; he has accumulated 544 runs in 20 matches at an average of 41.84 and a strike rate surpassing 145, with his top score being an undefeated 93. His IPL contributions here include 475 runs in 18 matches, averaging 43.18.
The recent IPL encounter against RCB highlighted Rahul&rsquo;s prowess yet again. After Delhi invited RCB to bat first, a stellar spin performance from Kuldeep Yadav (2/17) and Vipraj Nigam (2/18) restricted the hosts to 163/7 in their allotted 20 overs.
Standout performances came from Phil Salt (37 from 17 balls) and Tim David (37* from 20 balls), overcoming the aggressive opening partnership between Salt and Virat Kohli.
In response, Delhi Capitals found themselves tottering at 58/4, before Rahul and Tristan Stubbs took charge. Their unbroken 111-run partnership for the fifth wicket steered the team to victory.
Rahul&rsquo;s commanding knock of 93* off 53 deliveries, punctuated by seven fours and six sixes, earned him the 'Player of the Match' title. Stubbs offered solid support with his 38* from 23 balls.
Rahul&rsquo;s recent form has been remarkable, tallying 185 runs in just three matches with two half-centuries.
His performances have left DC sitting comfortably in second place with four consecutive wins, while RCB holds the fourth spot with three wins out of five.
In summary, KL Rahul's inspired celebration not only resonates with his love for cinema, particularly "Kantara," but also underscores his deep-rooted connection to a ground synonymous with his cricketing career.

RCB's captain Patidar laments batting collapse versus DC. Despite Tim David's late charge, KL Rahul's innings drives DC to victory. Adaptability proves key in IPL.

RCB Falters vs DC: Patidar's Critique

RCB captain Rajat Patidar rues batting collapse against DC. Despite team's initial edge, KL Rahul's strategic innings secured a six-wicket win for DC. The game highlighted IPL's demand for adaptability and resilience.

RCB captain Rajat Patidar criticized his team's batting collapse versus DC. Though Tim David excelled briefly, it wasn't enough. KL Rahul's mastery of the pitch led DC to victory, highlighting the importance of adaptability in IPL.

Royal Challengers Bengaluru skipper Rajat Patidar was not amused with the way his batters threw away their wickets in a heap when thing were cruise control, saying this was "not acceptable" following a six-wicket home loss to the Delhi Capitals on Thursday.
Spinners Kuldeep Yadav and Vipraj Nigam bowled with purpose while KL Rahul struck an unbeaten 93 as the DC juggernaut continued to roll menacingly, inflicting a morale-shattering defeat on RCB with 13 balls to spare.
"We have not batted well. Batters are in a good frame of mind, they have shown nice intent. 60 for one, and then 90 for four, that is not acceptable," said Patidar post match.
RCB's Phil Salt had pummelled the DC bowlers in powerplay overs, guiding the home side to 61/1 in only the fourth over before they slumped to 91/4 after which they lost momentum to score a below-par 163/7.
"We thought it would be a nice batting track. We were lacking in assessing the conditions and the situation," said Patidar, adding that Tim David (37) did his bit by accelerating the run-scoring.
But it came too late in the day.
"The way David accelerated at the end, it was really amazing. The powerplay, the way the (RCB) fast bowlers bowled, it was really special (reducing DC to 30/3)," he added.
Player of the Match KL Rahul said watching the ball keenly behind the stumps helped him when he came in to bat.
"It was a slightly tricky wicket but what helped me was being behind the stumps for 20 overs, watching how the wicket played. The ball sat in the wicket but it was consistent throughout, it was one-paced.
"I knew what my shots are, wanted to get off to a good start, and then assess it accordingly. It depends on the conditions and the ground and the dimensions. On a wicket like this, I knew what my pockets were. If I wanted to hit a big six, I knew what pockets to target, and 'keeping gave me a feeler for where other batters were dismissed and where they hit the sixes," added Rahul.
Rahul added that having played a lot of cricket in his formative years at the M Chinnaswamy Stadium helped him immensely.
"This is my ground, my home, (I) know this (ground) better than anyone else. Something I have always done with my preparation is that I always try to adapt to different wickets (even in practice). I experiment in practice, get out a couple of times but it gives me a fair idea of the areas I can target &mdash; where I can take singles, where I can hit sixes." DC skipper Axar Patel said four wins in four matches had given the team a huge boost in morale.
"Everyone is playing with confidence, it feels nice (to have won four out of four). We talk about match-ups and what is happening off the surface. I felt they like to face pacers, so tried to hold them back.
"Then the ball was spinning and bouncing, so thought of bowling spin in the powerplay," he said.
He lauded Rahul's efforts saying the charismatic 'keeper-batter had played a mature innings.
"It becomes a very easy job for me. I have been in that situation, being used as a floater in pressure situations. It is not easy (changing positions). Having a player like him is a very good thing. I played a bad shot today to get out, but he played a mature innings and finished it off. He has been carrying his Champions Trophy form."

Discover CSK's strategic move as MS Dhoni resumes captaincy amid setbacks, aiming to revive their IPL campaign after Ruturaj Gaikwad's exit. The decision contrasts Mumbai Indians' leadership choices.

MS Dhoni Returns to CSK Captaincy in IPL

Chennai Super Kings bring back MS Dhoni as captain to turnaround their IPL fortunes following Ruturaj Gaikwad’s exit. This move highlights contrasting leadership strategies with Mumbai Indians.

Chennai Super Kings reappoint MS Dhoni as captain amid a tough IPL stint. Amid social media debate, CSK contrasts MI&rsquo;s strategic change by rallying behind Dhoni after Ruturaj Gaikwad&rsquo;s departure.

CSK have ushered in a fresh wave of optimism by reinstating MS Dhoni as captain, in a move that could potentially resurrect their faltering IPL campaign.
With a disappointing record of just one win in five matches, CSK find themselves languishing at the 9th position on the points table.
As fans speculate about the necessary changes to reverse the team's fortunes, the franchise was dealt a blow when skipper Ruturaj Gaikwad was sidelined for the remainder of the season. This development prompted the team's management to turn once again to the seasoned leadership of MS Dhoni.
The decision to bring Dhoni back as captain has inadvertently sparked debate, especially on social media, with the Mumbai Indians (MI) unexpectedly finding themselves at the center of this discourse. Despite being two of the IPL's most successful franchises, CSK and MI have adopted markedly different strategies in recent times.
Dhoni, even at 43, continues to be the guiding light for CSK, whereas MI appears to have moved beyond their former captain Rohit Sharma.
Currently, MI is led by Hardik Pandya, with Suryakumar Yadav serving as vice-captain.
Interestingly, the five-time champions have relegated Sharma to the role of an Impact Substitute this season, seemingly dismissing the vast leadership expertise he provides on the field.
This contrast in approach has not gone unnoticed by fans, who have been quick to highlight the differences after CSK's decision to reinstate Dhoni. Dhoni, a stalwart of CSK since the inaugural IPL season in 2008, led the team to five championship titles until he passed the baton to Gaikwad ahead of the 2024 season.
Now, with Gaikwad's unavailability, Dhoni returns to captaincy, aiming to steer the team back to winning ways.

MS Dhoni returns as CSK captain for IPL 2025 following Ruturaj Gaikwad's injury. Despite CSK's struggles, coach Stephen Fleming is optimistic about reviving team performance under Dhoni's leadership.

MS Dhoni Returns to Captain CSK in IPL 2025

Legendary captain MS Dhoni leads CSK in IPL 2025 amidst tough times and injuries. Coach Fleming trusts Dhoni to turn around CSK's fortunes, while the team explores new player options for stability.

MS Dhoni resumes CSK captaincy in IPL 2025 amidst team struggles and Gaikwad's injury. Coach Fleming trusts Dhoni's leadership to guide the team, with potential player changes planned for revival.

In a move that reignites the hopes of Chennai Super Kings (CSK) fans, legendary skipper MS Dhoni is set to lead the team once again in the IPL 2025 season.
When CSK faces Kolkata Knight Riders in Chennai this Friday, the spotlight will be on Dhoni, the most successful captain in IPL history.&nbsp;
CSK finds itself in a precarious position, having lost four out of five matches, and currently languishing in 9th place in the 10-team league. To compound matters, regular captain Ruturaj Gaikwad has been sidelined with an elbow injury.
In this challenging scenario, Dhoni steps up to steer the team's campaign back on track.
CSK head coach Stephen Fleming expressed confidence in Dhoni's return to captaincy. "He had no hesitation to step up and help guide us out of this if we can," Fleming said. "We&rsquo;ll look at replacements. We have good players in the squad who have been with us for some time, so we'll first explore internal options.
However, there&rsquo;s also a chance to reinforce the squad for the upcoming years."
Having led CSK from 2008 to 2023 and clinching five IPL titles, Dhoni handed over the reins to Gaikwad before the 2024 season.
Gaikwad's injury came after being struck by a Jofra Archer delivery on March 30. Despite the setback, he played two subsequent games in pain before medical evaluations confirmed a fracture in his elbow.
"Ruturaj was struck in Guwahati against Rajasthan Royals and has been managing considerable pain. While his X-ray was inconclusive, the MRI revealed a fracture in the radial neck of his elbow," Fleming explained. "He played through pain against Delhi Capitals and Punjab Kings, but regrettably, he will miss the remainder of the tournament. We're disappointed for him and appreciate his effort to contribute under duress."
Despite Gaikwad&rsquo;s significant role as CSK's best batter in the past five games, the team has struggled with inconsistent performances from the top order and a lackluster middle order, failing to chase targets beyond 180.
In response, CSK may turn to Rahul Tripathi to bolster the top order, though he has yet to find his stride this season.
Meanwhile, seasoned player Deepak Hooda might provide stability in the middle order, and the untested Vansh Bedi could bring some much-needed power hitting. Additionally, the team is considering teenager Ayush Mhatre from Mumbai as a substitute player.
CSK&rsquo;s faithful will be hoping that Dhoni&rsquo;s return to leadership can reverse their fortunes and set the stage for a resurgence in IPL 2025.

Cricket returns to the Olympics after 128 years in LA 2028, featuring the T20 format and intense team selection. This historic event marks a stride towards cricket's global presence.

Cricket Returns to Olympics in 2028 After 128 Years

In a historic move, cricket will return to the Olympics at LA 2028. Featuring the engaging T20 format, this event represents a major step in cricket's globalization and inclusion on the prestigious Olympic stage.

Cricket is set to return to the Olympics at LA 2028 after 128 years, featuring the T20 format. Only six men&rsquo;s and six women&rsquo;s teams will compete. Qualification criteria are yet to be announced, with the USA likely to get direct entry.

Cricket is Finally Coming Back to the Olympics &ndash; After 128 Years!
Yes, you read that right.&nbsp;
After over a century, cricket is all set to make its long-awaited return to the Olympic Games at Los Angeles 2028. It&rsquo;s been 128 years since the sport last featured on the Olympic stage &ndash; way back in 1900.
So, what does this mean for the future of cricket?&nbsp; What will be the format of the game?&nbsp; Who gets to compete?
What will the schedule look like?
 We know you&rsquo;ve got questions &mdash; and don&rsquo;t worry, we&rsquo;ve got all the answers right here. Let&rsquo;s break it down!
A Brief History: From 1900 to 2028
Cricket was part of the Olympics in 1900, when a one-off, two-day match was played between Great Britain and France. This was later recognized as an unofficial Test match. Since then, despite gaining enormous popularity, especially in countries like India, England, Australia, and Pakistan, the sport has stayed out of the Olympic spotlight.&nbsp;
That changes now. The International Olympic Committee (IOC) has officially confirmed T20 cricket as part of the LA 2028 Games as well as in Brisbane in 2032.
T20 Format Chosen for Global Appeal
Cricket at LA 2028 will be played in the shortest format of the game- T20.
 The format has been kept to align well with the Olympic spirit &mdash; short, intense, and crowd-friendly. The decision reflects the sport&rsquo;s growing global footprint, especially with its rising popularity in newer markets like the USA.
How many teams can participate?&nbsp;
One of the biggest talking points is the limited number of teams. Only six men&rsquo;s and six women&rsquo;s teams will compete, as cricket has been given a total of 90 athlete quotas per gender which is enough for 15-member squads.
 This means that many top cricketing nations, including some of the 12 Full Members of the International Cricket Council (ICC), could miss out. With 94 Associate Members also in the mix, competition for those few spots is bound to be fierce.
Which teams will qualify? 
The qualification process for the Olympics is yet to be revealed. However, it is expected that host nation USA will receive a direct entry, leaving only five spots open for other nations. This adds further intrigue and intensity to the build-up toward LA 2028, and to understand which teams will be eligible to play in the biggest sporting event.&nbsp;
Multi-Sport Presence Strengthens Cricket&rsquo;s Case
Cricket&rsquo;s inclusion comes after its recent appearances in multi-sport events. The women&rsquo;s game debuted at the 2022 Commonwealth Games in Birmingham, while both men&rsquo;s and women&rsquo;s T20s were part of the 2023 Asian Games in Hangzhou. These milestones have helped strengthen cricket's case for Olympic inclusion.
Looking Ahead: Brisbane 2032 and Beyond
Interestingly, cricket is also set to feature in Brisbane 2032, ensuring at least two Olympic editions for the sport in the coming decade. This is a huge opportunity for cricket to capture new audiences, gain funding for grassroots development, and inspire a new generation of athletes worldwide.
Cricket's Olympic return isn&rsquo;t just symbolic; it&rsquo;s a step toward truly globalizing the sport. Whether the LA28 will be a success or not, only time will tell but one thing is for sure, its going to be a big stepping stone&nbsp;

KL Rahul's unbeaten 93 and vital spells from Kuldeep Yadav and Vipraj Nigam powered Delhi Capitals to a six-wicket win over Royal Challengers Bengaluru in their fourth consecutive IPL victory.

IPL 2025: KL Rahul's 93 and spinners' craftiness guide DC to six-wicket win over RCB

KL Rahul's unbeaten 93 and vital spells from Kuldeep Yadav and Vipraj Nigam powered Delhi Capitals to a six-wicket win over Royal Challengers Bengaluru in their fourth consecutive IPL victory.

The craftiness of spinners Kuldeep Yadav and Vipraj Nigam echoed in the assiduous unbeaten 93 of KL Rahul as Delhi Capitals overcame a top-order meltdown to score a six-wicket win over Royal Challengers Bengaluru in their IPL match in Bengaluru on Thursday.
Once the Royal Challengers were restricted to 163 for seven, the Capitals just needed to bat with common sense but it was a rare commodity in their frontline batters on the night.
But player of the match KL Rahul, whose knock came off 53 balls with seven fours and six sixes, added 111 runs for the fourth wicket with an equally level-headed Tristan Stubbs (38 not out) to score their fourth victory on the bounce.
DC made 169 for four.
Rahul's innings was a prime example of risk management as he started at a slower tempo before shifting the gears seamlessly.
The way Rahul, who was dropped on five by Rajat Patidar off Yash Dayal, dealt with leg-spinner Suyansh Sharma and pacer Josh Hazlewood underlined his intelligent approach.
He was prudent against Suyansh, waiting for his chances to score runs on a sluggish track and carted him for a lone six &mdash; a sweep over mid-wicket.
But once Hazlewood returned for his second spell, Rahul used the extra pace to good effect to manufacture big shots such as a scorching six over the bowlers' head.
Stubbs too joined his partners with a couple of lovely straight hits off Bhuvneshwar to the fence as DC strolled home.
However, they had a horror start to the chase as Faf du Plessis, who came back for this match after missing the game against Chennai Super Kings with a niggle, skied Dayal for Rajat Patidar to complete a fine catch.
The mode of dismissal echoed twice soon as Jake-Fraser McGurk and Abhishek Porel walked back to the shed in the same manner.
The visitors were in a quagmire at 30 for three well inside the Power Play, which they eventually finished at 39 for three.
Rahul and captain Axar Patel (15) added 28 runs for the fourth wicket, and the DC innings seemed to have gotten back on the track.
But Axar's attempt to find the boundary over covers off Suyansh could not progress beyond the running-in Tim David.
However, that was the last of the blips in the DC innings as Rahul marked their triumph with a six off Dayal which he celebrated with a sword-on-the-ground celebration.
Earlier, the wizardry of Kuldeep and Nigam helped the Capitals stage a stirring comeback to restrict RCB to a below-par 163 for seven.
Left-arm wrist spinner Kuldeep (2/17) and leg-spinner Nigam (2/18) adjusted their lengths beautifully to halt RCB after the Capitals chose to bowl first.
But Delhi's decision to field looked utterly obtuse as Royal Challengers went off the blocks like a galloping horse, going past the 50-run mark in just three overs.
Central to that charge was opener Phil Salt's turbo-charged innings of 37 off 17 balls.
The England batter hammered Mitchell Starc for a sequence of 6, 4, 4, 4, 6 to collect 24 runs in the third over.
However, Salt got run out in a yes-no situation involving Virat Kohli (22, 14b). Kohli and Salt added 61 runs off 24 balls for the opening stand.
But the introduction of Nigam proved a course-altering point.
Nigam gave away just two runs in the fifth over, and pacer Mohit Sharma followed that up with another tidy few balls.
Pressurised by a series of dot balls, Devdutt Padikkal (1) went for a release shot off Mohit, but it lacked any kinetic energy as Axar completed an easy catch.
Kohli, who began to unshackle himself with a six off Nigam over long-on, soon fell to the same bowler while trying to clobber a delivery wide on the off-stump.
Thereafter, the home side lost the wickets of Jitesh 4) and Liam Livingstone (3) in quick succession as they slipped to 102 for five in the 13th over, a far cry from the start they had.
However, David (37 not out, 20b) played a few beefy shots as RCB added 36 runs in the last two overs to go past the 160-run mark.&nbsp;

Following India’s Test series loss in Australia, BCCI sacks key support staff members, including Abhishek Nayar and T. Dilip, and introduces interim replacements ahead of England series.

BCCI overhauls coaching staff after BGT disappointment

Following India&rsquo;s Test series loss in Australia, BCCI sacks key support staff members, including Abhishek Nayar and T. Dilip, and introduces interim replacements ahead of England series.

In the wake of India&rsquo;s crushing defeat in the Border-Gavaskar Trophy 2024-25 in Australia, the Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI) has undertaken a significant shake-up in the national team&rsquo;s support staff.
Assistant coach Abhishek Nayar, appointed only eight months ago, has been relieved of his duties. Alongside him, fielding coach T. Dilip and strength and conditioning coach Soham Desai have also been sacked. A team masseur has reportedly been let go as well.
The move comes as part of a broader overhaul led by newly-appointed head coach Gautam Gambhir, who succeeded Rahul Dravid. Gambhir brought in several members of his Kolkata Knight Riders (KKR) support team, including Nayar, Ryan ten Doeschate, and Morne Morkel.
Earlier this year, in response to India&rsquo;s inconsistent batting performances&mdash;both at home against New Zealand and away in Australia&mdash;the BCCI appointed India A and NCA coach Sitanshu Kotak as the batting coach for white-ball formats. Despite a rocky start, the restructured coaching unit rebounded to guide India to a Champions Trophy title, with Nayar, ten Doeschate, Morkel, Dilip, and Kotak all playing pivotal roles.
While Nayar&rsquo;s stint with the national team has come to an end, other members of the support staff are expected to continue, with some stepping into interim roles. Ryan ten Doeschate will now handle fielding responsibilities in place of T. Dilip. South African trainer Adrian Le Roux, currently associated with Punjab Kings in the IPL, has been brought in to oversee strength and conditioning, replacing Desai.
No official replacements have yet been named for either Nayar or Dilip. The restructured support staff is set to join the Indian squad ahead of the high-stakes five-match Test series against England, beginning June 20.
With the Border-Gavaskar Trophy loss fresh in memory, the BCCI appears focused on a reset&mdash;strengthening the team&rsquo;s internal structure and morale ahead of another major red-ball challenge. As the countdown to the England series begins, all eyes will be on whether permanent appointments are made in time to stabilize the backroom staff.

Sports

Mitchell Starc's crucial bowling and Axar Patel's explosive performance help Delhi Capitals seal a dramatic Super Over win against Rajasthan Royals.

IPL 2025: Mitchell Starc's brilliance guides Delhi Capitals to Super Over victory over RR

Mitchell Starc's crucial bowling and Axar Patel's explosive performance help Delhi Capitals seal a dramatic Super Over win against Rajasthan Royals.

Mitchell Starc bowled couple of incredible overs under pressure as Delhi Capitals pulled off a heist by stealing a thrilling Super Over win from Rajasthan Royals in their IPL showdown on Wednesday.
The ice-cold Starc (1/36 in 4 overs) held his nerve during a tense final over to defend nine runs as DC forced the game into a Super Over when it seemed Royals have all but won it.
The Australian left-arm pacer then bowled a tremendous Super Over, conceding just two boundaries. He was backed by two razor-sharp run-outs as RR managed only 11 runs.
KL Rahul and Tristan Stubbs then kept their nerves in check slamming a four and a six respectively to take the hosts to their first win at the Arun Jaitley Stadium.
Chasing 189, Yashasvi Jaiswal (51 off 37) and 'local lad' Nitish Rana (51 off 28) had the Royals cruising, but DC's bowlers turned the tide with a roaring late surge, eventually tying the game at 188/4.
The late drama followed a solid batting effort by DC, built on Abishek Porel&rsquo;s composed 49 and explosive cameos from skipper Axar Patel (34 off 14) and Tristan Stubbs (34 not out off 18), lifting them to a competitive 188/5 after being asked to bat.
Desperate for a win to reignite their campaign, Jaiswal came out all guns blazing as he clobbered two sixes off Mukesh Kumar before dismantling Mitchell Starc with two boundaries and a towering maximum, making his intent clear.
Sanju Samson joined the party even as Ashutosh Sharma spilled a regulation catch. The Royals' captain eventually retired hurt, after pulling his side.
With the chase humming along, Axar wicketless all season, broke the drought with a ripper that outfoxed Riyan Parag.
Jaiswal, however, looked invincible until Axar turned once more to his trusted match-winner Kuldeep Yadav (1/33 in 4 overs). The move worked. Delhi&rsquo;s standout wrist-spinner struck gold, removing the set Jaiswal.
But Rana was in no mood to let up. The southpaw batted with precision, sending anything in his arc to the fence with ease.
His calculated aggression and clean ball-striking kept Royals firmly on course. But once Rana was trapped led before by Starc the script changed.
Earlier, if Porel and KL Rahul (38) laid a solid foundation with a 63-run stand, Axar's blistering 13-ball 34, along with Tristan Stubbs&rsquo; (34 not out off 18 balls) late surge, provided the final flourish in an innings where momentum swung like a pendulum between the two sides.
Sandeep Sharma (0/33) bowled beautifully through his spell, took pace off his deliveries. However, he lost his rhythm in the final over, leaking four wides and a no-ball.
Delhi Capitals got off to a fiery start, with Jake Fraser-McGurk (9) cracking back-to-back boundaries off Jofra Archer (2/32) to set the tone.
Young Porel lit up the stadium early on, taking the second over by storm. He tore into Tushar Deshpande, smashing 23 runs, including four elegant boundaries.
But the highlight was a sublime flick over deep backward square for a maximum that had the crowd roaring.
However, DC's momentum faltered as Fraser-McGurk's lean patch persisted. The Australian lofted a simple catch to Yashasvi Jaiswal at mid-off in the fourth over, gifting Rajasthan Royals a breakthrough.
Run outs came back to haunt Delhi again as a mix-up between Porel and the in-form Karun Nair (0) resulted in the latter's dismissal, abruptly halting the Capitals' early charge.
The Royals' bowlers tightened the noose during the middle overs, drying up the boundaries and building persistent pressure.
Yet, Porel found a steady ally in seasoned Rahul. The veteran batter brought a sense of calm amid storm, easing the pressure with two towering sixes -- one launched down the ground off Deshpande in the 7th, and another elegantly lifted over long-off against Mahesh Theekshana in the 11th.
Just when the hosts looked like having rebuild their innings, Archer was brought back skipper Sanju Samson. And the English pacer struck gold, dismissing Rahul with back of length delivery that found Shimron Hetmyer at deep midwicket.
The West Indian held on to a low catch, inches above the ground, swinging the momentum back in Rajasthan&rsquo;s favour.
But DC skipper Axar, who hasn't had the best of tournaments exploded, smashing four boundaries and two maximums before Stubbs' clean strikes helped Delhi finish strong.

Australia defeated Sri Lanka by an innings and 242 runs in the first Test, with Matthew Kuhnemann taking career-best figures of 9-149. Sri Lanka’s batting collapse saw them lose their last five wickets for just nine runs, sealing the heavy defeat.

Australia crushes Sri Lanka by an innings and 242 runs in historic Test victory

Australia defeated Sri Lanka by an innings and 242 runs in the first Test, with Matthew Kuhnemann taking career-best figures of 9-149. Sri Lanka&rsquo;s batting collapse saw them lose their last five wickets for just nine runs, sealing the heavy defeat.

Sri Lanka suffered their heaviest defeat in Test cricket history on Saturday as Australia flexed their muscles to take a 1-0 lead in the two-match series with a crushing victory by an innings and 242 runs.
The contest was wrapped up before tea on day four, with rookie left-arm spinner Matthew Kuhnemann's match-winning spell delivering him career-best figures of 9-149 over both innings.
"We were put under pressure," Sri Lanka skipper Dhananjaya de Silva said afterwards. "The batters should have put up a better show."
Kuhnemann underwent surgery only two weeks ago on a broken right thumb sustained during the Big Bash League and battled through the match in pain, requiring constant medical attention.
He was well-supported by the ever-dependable Nathan Lyon, who spun a web around the Sri Lankan batters to finish with seven match wickets.
Sri Lanka's heaviest defeat before Saturday was in Nagpur in 2017, when India hammered them by an innings and 239.
Sri Lanka resumed on 136 for five overnight but their first innings folded for 165, losing their last five wickets for a mere nine runs.
Put straight back in to bat chasing 489, they lost three wickets before lunch and then capitulated in the second session -- a humiliating finish for a team once renowned for its prowess on turning tracks.
Dinesh Chandimal had waged a lonely battle in the first innings to top-score with 72 and, with Angelo Mathews, stitched together one of only two 50-plus partnerships in the second.
However, he was sent back for 31 on the last ball before lunch when he gloved Lyon to Travis Head at short leg.
Oshada Fernando failed to make an impact in his return to the side, undone by a sharp inswinger from Mitchell Starc that trapped him plumb in front for six to go with his first innings seven.
Former skipper Dimuth Karunaratne's horror run with the bat continued after an avoidable dismissal for nought by Todd Murphy.
 - 'Tough place to play' -
Rain forced an early lunch on day three before washing out the final two sessions.
Australia declared on 654-6 late on the second day after opener Usman Khawaja's career-best 232.
"Galle is a tough place to play cricket and we are very happy with this win," Khawaja said.
"I've played a lot of cricket in Sri Lanka, this being my fifth tour. I've made lot of mistakes before. I guess all that experience came in handy in this game."
Stand-in skipper Steve Smith also had a game to remember, becoming only the fourth Australian to breach the 10,000-run mark in Test cricket on the first ball he faced.
He finished his innings with a masterful 141, while wicketkeeper Josh Inglis hit a century on debut.
Galle will host the second and final match of the series next week before a two-match ODI series in Colombo.

Cricket legend Sachin Tendulkar will be honored with the prestigious C K Nayudu Lifetime Achievement Award at the BCCI’s annual gala on Saturday.

Sachin Tendulkar to get BCCI Lifetime Achievement Award

Tendulkar, known for his iconic career and record-breaking runs in Test and ODI formats, continues to be a symbol of excellence in international cricket.

The legendary Sachin Tendulkar, renowned for his iconic batting records and profound impact on international cricket, will be honored with the BCCI&rsquo;s Lifetime Achievement Award at the Board's annual gala on Saturday.&nbsp;
At 51 years old, Tendulkar has played 664 international matches for India and holds the record for the most Test and ODI runs in cricket history.&nbsp;
"Yes, he will be the recipient of the C K Nayudu Lifetime Achievement Award for the year 2024," a Board source confirmed to PTI. His 200 Test appearances and 463 ODIs remain unmatched in the history of the game. Over his illustrious career, he accumulated 15,921 runs in Tests and a staggering 18,426 in ODIs.
Though he played only one T20 International, Tendulkar&rsquo;s career is defined by his remarkable achievements across formats.&nbsp;
In 2023, the award was presented to former India head coach Ravi Shastri and wicketkeeping great Farokh Engineer.&nbsp;
Regarded as the greatest batter of his era, Tendulkar was not just known for his run-scoring feats but also for being a symbol of cricketing excellence.&nbsp;
He made his debut at the age of 16 in 1989 against Pakistan and went on to enjoy a career that spanned more than two decades.&nbsp;
Apart from his batting records, Tendulkar was also a pivotal figure in India&rsquo;s 2011 World Cup-winning team, marking his sixth and final appearance in the prestigious tournament.
At his peak, the sight of Tendulkar walking out to bat was enough to captivate an entire nation. His wicket was the most coveted among opposition teams, many of whom admitted that Tendulkar was the only Indian batter capable of intimidating them.&nbsp;
Tendulkar will be the 31st recipient of the C K Nayudu Lifetime Achievement Award, which was established in 1994 in honor of India&rsquo;s first captain, Col. C K Nayudu, who also made significant contributions as a cricket administrator.&nbsp;
Nayudu&rsquo;s extraordinary 47-year-long first-class career, which spanned from 1916 to 1963, remains a world record.

Virat Kohli's much-anticipated return to the Ranji Trophy ended early with a dismissal for just six runs. Himanshu Sangwan claimed the prized wicket as Kohli's brief stay at the crease left Delhi trailing Railways.

Virat Kohli dismissed for six runs in Ranji Trophy return leaving fans disappointed

Virat Kohli's much-anticipated return to the Ranji Trophy ended early with a dismissal for just six runs. Himanshu Sangwan claimed the prized wicket as Kohli's brief stay at the crease left Delhi trailing Railways.

Virat Kohli's return to the Ranji Trophy was cut short as he was dismissed for just six runs on Friday at the Arun Jaitley Stadium in Delhi.&nbsp;
Kohli's brief innings was ended by Himanshu Sangwan, who claimed the prized wicket after Kohli had faced only 15 deliveries.
Kohli displayed a brief moment of brilliance, playing a beautiful straight drive off Sangwan, but the very next delivery proved his downfall.&nbsp;
The ball, angled in on a fullish length just outside off, seamed in sharply as Kohli attempted another drive but missed, leaving a gap between his bat and pad. The ball clipped the off-stump, sending the bails flying.
The dismissal was a significant moment for Sangwan, whose wicket of Kohli seemed to deflate the stadium, as thousands of fans who had gathered to witness a Kohli masterclass were left disappointed. Following Kohli's exit, Delhi was at 87/3, still trailing Railways by 140 runs.
However, there may still be a chance for redemption. If Delhi gets a second innings, Kohli will have another opportunity to shine.&nbsp;
On Day 1 of the match, the stadium was buzzing with excitement as fans turned out in large numbers to support their cricketing icon, whose recent performances have been below expectations.
Over 15,000 fans attended the match, with additional gates opened and increased security. In a dramatic turn, a fan managed to breach security, rushing onto the field to meet Kohli.&nbsp;
The fan touched Kohli&rsquo;s feet before being escorted off by security personnel. Kohli, displaying his characteristic calm, requested security to handle the fan gently and avoid any harsh treatment.&nbsp;
Meanwhile, Delhi's opening bowlers, Navdeep Saini and Siddhant Sharma, had put Railways in trouble at 21/3, showing promise for the remainder of the match.

Jasprit Bumrah has been awarded the prestigious ICC Men’s Cricketer of the Year 2024 and the Sir Garfield Sobers Trophy after an exceptional performance across formats.

Jasprit Bumrah named ICC Men’s Cricketer of the Year 2024, wins Sir Garfield Sobers Trophy

Jasprit Bumrah has been awarded the prestigious ICC Men&rsquo;s Cricketer of the Year 2024 and the Sir Garfield Sobers Trophy after an exceptional performance across formats.

Jasprit Bumrah has added another incredible achievement to his already impressive career, being named the ICC Men&rsquo;s Cricketer of the Year for 2024.&nbsp;
Following his win as the ICC Men&rsquo;s Test Cricketer of the Year, Bumrah also claimed the prestigious Sir Garfield Sobers Trophy, solidifying his status as one of the world&rsquo;s best fast bowlers.
Bumrah triumphed over fellow nominees Travis Head, Joe Root, and Harry Brook to secure the award, becoming the fifth Indian player to receive this recognition.&nbsp;
Previous Indian recipients include Rahul Dravid (2004), Sachin Tendulkar (2010), Ravichandran Ashwin (2016), and Virat Kohli (2017, 2018).
The ICC highlighted Bumrah&rsquo;s exceptional performances across formats in 2024, describing his year as a &ldquo;masterclass in skill, precision, and relentless consistency,&rdquo; with the fast bowler continuing to break records and establish himself as the world&rsquo;s premier pacer.
Bumrah had a stellar year in both T20Is and Tests. He played a pivotal role in India&rsquo;s triumph at the T20 World Cup 2024, finishing as the Player of the Tournament with 15 wickets at an extraordinary average of 8.26 and an economy rate of just 4.17.
In Tests, Bumrah took 71 wickets, outpacing England&rsquo;s Gus Atkinson, who claimed 52 wickets in 11 matches. Bumrah's average was a phenomenal 14.92, and his strike rate was just 30.1 for the year.&nbsp;
His 71 wickets made him only the fourth Indian bowler in history to take more than 70 Test wickets in a calendar year, joining the ranks of Ravichandran Ashwin, Anil Kumble, and Kapil Dev.
Bumrah&rsquo;s year began with a stellar performance in the Cape Town Test against South Africa, where he took eight wickets across two innings, helping India to victory. He then dominated England at home, claiming 19 wickets in four Tests as India won 1-4. H
owever, his finest performance came during the 2024-25 Border-Gavaskar Trophy (BGT) tour of Australia, where he bagged an incredible 32 wickets in five Tests and was named Player of the Series.
Bumrah&rsquo;s remarkable year saw him surpass the milestone of 200 Test wickets, becoming the 12th Indian bowler to achieve this feat. He also became the fastest Indian pacer to reach this mark, with a bowling average of less than 20, the best in history.
Bumrah&rsquo;s dominance was further reflected in his ICC Test Bowling Rankings, where he surpassed 900 rating points, ending the year with an unprecedented 907 points&mdash;setting a new record for the most points by any Indian bowler in history.

The Mumbai Cricket Association (MCA) set a new Guinness World Record for the 'Largest Cricket Ball Sentence,' using 14,505 balls to form the phrase "Fifty Years of Wankhede Stadium."

Mumbai Cricket Association commemorates 50 years of Wankhede Stadium with a Guinness World Record

The Mumbai Cricket Association (MCA) set a new Guinness World Record for the 'Largest Cricket Ball Sentence,' using 14,505 balls to form the phrase "Fifty Years of Wankhede Stadium."

The Mumbai Cricket Association (MCA) on Thursday achieved a monumental milestone by securing the Guinness World Records title for the 'Largest Cricket Ball Sentence.'
This accomplishment was part of the celebrations marking the 50th anniversary of the iconic Wankhede Stadium in Mumbai.
The record was set on the anniversary of the first-ever international match held at the stadium in 1975, when India faced the West Indies in a memorable Test match from January 23 to 29.
<img src="https://cdn.editorji.com/6792270190d05_1737631489.jpg" width="581" height="306">
MCA dedicated this extraordinary feat to the late Eknath Solkar, who scored a century in that historic match, and to other departed Mumbai players who made significant contributions to the sport.
The MCA, known for its unwavering commitment to excellence, arranged 14,505 leather cricket balls on the Wankhede Stadium field to create the sentence: "Fifty Years of Wankhede Stadium."
The record-breaking arrangement was achieved in the presence of MCA President Ajinkya Naik, alongside office-bearers and Apex Council Members. The breakdown of the balls used for each word is as follows:
<ul>
<li>FIFTY: 1,902 balls</li>
<li>YEARS: 2,831 balls</li>
<li>OF: 1,066 balls</li>
<li>WANKHEDE: 4,990 balls</li>
<li>STADIUM: 3,672 balls</li>
<li>FULL STOP (.): 44 balls</li>
<li>Total: 14,505 balls</li>
</ul>
The MCA will donate the balls used in this record to aspiring cricketers from schools, clubs, and NGOs across the city, encouraging them to be inspired by this achievement and aim for even greater milestones in their cricketing careers.
"Mumbai cricket has contributed significantly to the sport and it holds a special place in cricket's history. The city has produced some of the greatest cricketers the world has ever seen. Wankhede Stadium is the pride of Mumbai and has witnessed countless historic moments. This Guinness World Records title is a reflection of Mumbai cricket's passion, legacy, and relentless pursuit of excellence. It is also a special tribute to all the players, officials, and unsung heroes who have contributed to Mumbai's cricketing legacy," said Ajinkya Naik, President of the Mumbai Cricket Association.
In addition to this achievement, the MCA had hosted a series of events earlier to commemorate the stadium's golden jubilee. These included honoring the captains of Mumbai&rsquo;s men's and women&rsquo;s teams, the members of the Mumbai team that played the first-ever first-class match at Wankhede Stadium in 1974, and former Elected Managing Committee members.
The Sports Journalists Association of Mumbai and the association&rsquo;s groundsmen were also felicitated, with a special Polly Umrigar Health Camp and lunch organized for them in recognition of their invaluable contributions.
The grand celebrations on January 19 were attended by cricket legends such as Sachin Tendulkar, Sunil Gavaskar, Ravi Shastri, Diana Edulji, Rohit Sharma, and Ajinkya Rahane, in front of a packed stadium.
The evening also featured mesmerizing performances by Ajay-Atul and Avadhoot Gupte, followed by a stunning laser show that capped off the event.

Rishabh Pant, sold to Lucknow Super Giants for a record Rs 27 crores in the IPL 2025 auction, has been named captain of the franchise. 

Rishabh Pant named Lucknow Super Giants captain for IPL 2025

Rishabh Pant, sold to Lucknow Super Giants for a record Rs 27 crores in the IPL 2025 auction, has been named captain of the franchise.&nbsp;

Rishabh Pant, the trailblazing wicketkeeper, has been appointed as the captain of the Lucknow Super Giants for the upcoming Indian Premier League (IPL) season, the franchise announced on Monday.
The 27-year-old, who made history during the IPL auction in November by being sold to Lucknow for Rs 27 crores ($3.2 million), joins the team for the upcoming edition of the lucrative T20 tournament.
Pant, known for his flamboyant left-handed batting, returned to captain Delhi Capitals last season after a 14-month hiatus from elite cricket due to a car accident. However, he parted ways with the Capitals after the team finished sixth in the 2024 IPL season standings.
"I see a born leader in Rishabh Pant. From my point of view, he will be probably the best captain IPL has seen," said Sanjiv Goenka, the owner of Lucknow, during a special TV broadcast. "Surely Rishabh Pant will play for at least 14-15 years for us, we hope at least five IPL titles in these years."
Pant has represented India in 150 international matches across all three formats, amassing 5,028 runs, including seven centuries.
The 18th edition of the IPL is set to commence on March 21, with the opening match scheduled to be held in Kolkata, while the final will take place on May 25, according to reports from Indian media.
The IPL continues to be a major revenue generator for Indian cricket, contributing more than $11 billion annually to the economy. It has also played a pivotal role in popularizing T20 cricket globally, inspiring similar events worldwide.

Cricket

RCB alleges Uber Moto's ad disparages its trademark. Ad features cricketer Travis Head altering Bengaluru signage. Legal dispute awaits Delhi High Court's decision, impacting sports marketing and trademark standards.

RCB vs Uber: Trademark Clash in High Court

RCB accuses Uber Moto of trademark disparagement. The ad with Travis Head challenges RCB's brand identity. Delhi High Court decision pending in this sports marketing case.

RCB alleges Uber Moto's ad disparages its trademark

RCB sues Uber Moto in Delhi HC for trademark disparagement via an ad featuring 'Royally Challenged Bengaluru'.

Indian Premier League cricket team Royal Challengers Bengaluru moved the Delhi High Court on Thursday and accused an YouTube advertisement of disparaging its trademark.
Justice Saurabh Banerjee, after hearing submissions of parties on Royal Challengers Bengaluru's (RCB) interim plea for injunction, reserved its order.
Royal Challengers Sports Private Limited filed a suit against Uber India Systems Pvt Ltd claiming that Uber Moto's YouTube advertisement titled "Baddies in Bengaluru ft. Travis Head" disparages its trademark.
RCB said Sunrisers Hyderabad's cricketer Head, the main character in the video, disparages its trademark.
Describing the video advertisement, RCB counsel said the cricketer could be seen running towards Bengaluru cricket stadium with an aim to vandalise the signage of "Bengaluru Vs Hyderabad", takes a spray paint and writes "Royally Challenged" before Bengaluru making it "Royally Challenged Bengaluru" which disparages RCB's mark.
The lawyer contended that when a negative comment is made, there is disparagement and added that Uber Moto, being the commercial sponsor of Sunrisers Hyderabad IPL team, while promoting its product which is booking a ride, used RCB's trademark in the course of its trade, that too its "deceptive variant", which was impermissible under law.
The counsel representing Uber said RCB had "severely discounted" the sense of humour of the public at large. The general messaging of the advertisement, the counsel said, was that there was a match between RCB and Sunrisers Hyderabad at the Bengaluru cricket stadium on May 13 and since it was a city with traffic jam, "public must use uber moto".
Uber's counsel said good humour, sense of fun and banter are intrinsic to advertising messaging and these factors "will be killed" if such a standard, as mooted by RCB, is applied.
The advertisement garnered 1.3 million views and a number of comments from users on the social media platform.

Rohit Sharma's form in IPL hampers Mumbai Indians' momentum. Anjum Chopra suggests strategic changes. Encouragement for young players like Shafali Verma.

Anjum Chopra on Rohit Sharma's IPL Struggle

Rohit Sharma's struggles in the IPL have impacted Mumbai Indians' performance. Anjum Chopra suggests strategic alterations and emphasizes resilience and growth for players like Shafali Verma.

Rohit Sharma's performance dip has affected Mumbai Indians in the IPL. Anjum Chopra suggests strategic adjustments, indicating the need for resilience and optimism for players like Rohit and young cricketer Shafali Verma.

Rohit Sharma's poor run of form hasn't allowed Mumbai Indians to set the tone in in the IPL so far, believes former Indian women's captain Anjum Chopra.
The former MI captain has been reduced to an impact sub for the Hardik Pandya-led side with a string of low scores, 0,8, 13, 17 and 18, that cut a sorry figure in the IPL.
MI fashioned a 12-run win in their recent game against the Delhi Capitals on Sunday and are saddled in the seventh position in the ten-team points table with four losses and two wins.
"You can be out of form. It's not a crime to be out of form. The only idea is that it's not helping, it's not setting the start that Mumbai Indians were looking for or are looking for right at the top," Anjum told PTI Videos in an exclusive interaction on Tuesday.
Anjum suggested that if Rohit's famed position at the top is unable to give them the returns they seek then demoting him down the order could do the trick.
"So, I mean, they have options, they can always look at pushing Rohit Sharma down the order or not utilizing all those options are always there. But it's not that Rohit Sharma is out of form, it's just that sometimes you don't start the tournament on that good a note or that high a note and it can affect you as a batter or as a player as well," "So, it's part and parcel. It's like we are, we are watching a tournament as and when it's an IPL or a World Cup. But tell me in a World Cup, would you want your best batter to be in form in a World Cup or not? And a lot of energy goes into delivering that kind of performance," "Some people recover from that and step into the next tournament quicker than most or others. It's not that others can't get into it. He hasn't got that kind of a start but then we know what kind of a player he is or what kind of a match winner is," said Anjum.
It's not at all gloomy for Shafali ==================== It is not all doom and gloom for young opener Shafali Verma, whom Anjum advised not to lose heart after being overlooked once again.
"If she is rested or dropped from an Indian team, there is always an opportunity to make a comeback. I mean, it's happened with any and everyone. It's not that the heavens have fallen or the tides have changed. Every player goes through it.
"So, for a player of her age and if she starts thinking and people around her start thinking that it's curtains for her, I think it's a wrong thought. A 20, 21-year-old player can always look at the bright side that it is just the start of my career.
"I don't think it's curtains for her. I mean, we're playing for India at the end of the day. So, you would expect that kind of competition," said Anjum who played 12 Tests, 127 ODIs and 18 T20Is for India.

Delhi Capitals' captain Axar Patel fined Rs 12 lakh for maintaining a slow over-rate against Mumbai Indians in IPL 2025. His struggling form, with no wickets and only 67 runs so far, adds to Delhi's concerns.

Axar Patel Fined Rs 12 Lakh in IPL 2025

Delhi Capitals skipper Axar Patel penalized Rs 12 lakh for slow over-rate during IPL 2025 match against Mumbai Indians. First offence of the season under IPL Article 2.22. Patel's form is a growing concern.

Axar Patel fined Rs 12 lakh for a slow over-rate in DC's loss to MI in IPL 2025. The Capitals' first offence under IPL Article 2.22. Axar's form a concern: no wickets, 67 runs in five matches.

Delhi Capitals skipper Axar Patel was fined Rs 12 lakh for maintaining slow over-rate during his team's 12-run defeat at the hands of Mumbai Indians in an IPL game. MI scored 205 for 5 in 20 overs while DC were all out for 193 in 19 overs.
"Delhi Capitals captain Axar Patel has been fined after his team maintained a slow over-rate during Match No. 29 of the TATA Indian Premier League (IPL) 2025 against Mumbai Indians at the Arun Jaitley Stadium, Delhi. As this was his team&rsquo;s first offence of the season under Article 2.22 of the IPL&rsquo;s Code of Conduct, which pertains to minimum over-rate offences, Patel was fined INR 12 lakhs," the BCCI said in a release.
While this was DC's first defeat in the tournament, Axar continued to struggle, having gone wicketless in five matches and managing only 67 runs with the bat.

Karachi Kings' thrilling victory over Multan Sultans saw James Vince's rapid century and an unusual hair dryer award, sparking debate.

James Vince's Century 

James Vince's rapid century led Karachi Kings to victory over Multan Sultans in PSL 2025, overshadowed by a hair dryer award controversy. Vince's feat ranks third-fastest in PSL history, stirring social media reactions amid Karachi's cricket celebrations.

James Vince's stellar century led Karachi Kings to a thrilling PSL win over Multan Sultans, sparking debate with a quirky hair dryer award.

In a curious turn of events during the ongoing Pakistan Super League (PSL) 2025, a post-match award ceremony became the talk of the town after the Karachi Kings secured a thrilling victory over Multan Sultans at the National Bank Stadium in Karachi.
England's James Vince, whose incredible century was pivotal in the win, was unexpectedly awarded a hair dryer, sparking a wave of criticism across social media platforms.
Multan Sultans had initially set a formidable total of 234/3, powered by a stellar, unbeaten 105 off just 63 balls by Mohammad Rizwan. Karachi Kings, however, responded with resilience, thanks to a crucial 142-run partnership for the fifth wicket between James Vince and Khusdil Shah.
Vince not only crafted a scintillating century but also laid the foundation for his team's successful chase, which was sealed with four balls to spare. He eventually fell on the last ball of the 18th over, while Khusdil remained not out with a blazing 60 off 37 balls.
Following the home side's four-wicket triumph, Vince was deservingly named Player of the Match. He was then asked to visit the dressing room where a sponsor presented him with a hair dryer, an unconventional choice that left both Vince and fans somewhat bewildered.
&nbsp;
<blockquote class="twitter-tweet">
James Vince is the Dawlance Reliable Player of the Match for his game-changing performance against the Multan Sultans! 💙❤<a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/YehHaiKarachi?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#YehHaiKarachi</a> | <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/KingsSquad?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#KingsSquad</a> | <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/KarachiKings?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#KarachiKings</a> <a href="https://t.co/PH2U9FQl5a">pic.twitter.com/PH2U9FQl5a</a>
&mdash; Karachi Kings (@KarachiKingsARY) <a href="https://twitter.com/KarachiKingsARY/status/1911311882448748614?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">April 13, 2025</a></blockquote>
&nbsp;
&nbsp;
The unusual reward quickly became fodder for social media, where fans criticized the PSL franchise for awarding such a quirky prize for a batting display of such caliber.
In terms of record achievements, Vince's rapid century, completed in just 42 balls, ranks as the third-fastest in PSL history. The record for the fastest stands with Usman Khan, who scored a century in an astonishing 36 balls, with Rilee Rossouw of South Africa clocking in a 41-ball hundred.
Riding high after their triumph, Karachi Kings are set to face Lahore Qalandars next on Tuesday at the National Stadium, aiming to maintain their winning momentum in the league.

SRH seeks to bounce back against high-flying Punjab Kings. With a formidable batting lineup faltering, SRH needs brighter performances from stars like Travis Head and Ishan Kishan.

SRH vs. Punjab Kings: Big IPL Clash Ahead

SRH is eager to end their losing streak against Punjab Kings in their next IPL clash. Their aggressive batting strategy needs tweaking, while Punjab, under Shreyas Iyer, looks confident and strong.

Sunrisers Hyderabad aim to reverse their losing streak as they face the in-form Punjab Kings in their next IPL match, needing stronger performances from key players and improved game tactics.

In a bid to halt a concerning downward spiral, Sunrisers Hyderabad (SRH) are eager to turn their fortunes around as they prepare to host the formidable Punjab Kings in their next IPL fixture on Saturday.
Last season's runners-up, SRH kicked off their 2025 campaign with a bang, posting a colossal 286 runs to decisively defeat Rajasthan Royals by 44 runs.
Their explosive batting line-up, touted as one of the tournament's most potent, initially seemed poised to make history by breaking the 300-run barrier. However, their hyper-aggressive batting approach has dramatically backfired since that opening triumph.
In the subsequent three matches, SRH's relentless attacking strategy resulted in subpar totals of 163, 120, and 152, leading to heavy defeats and leaving them stranded at the bottom of the points table. Compounding their woes, they currently have the worst Net Run Rate in the league at -1.629.
For Sunrisers Hyderabad, improved performances from marquee players such as Travis Head, Abhishek Sharma, Ishan Kishan, and Heinrich Klaasen are imperative.
Head, whose dynamic starts were key last season, has struggled to find form with a highest partnership of only 15 runs.
His performances have dwindled, with scores of 67, 47, 22, 4, and 8. Abhishek Sharma, too, has yet to hit his stride, his highest score being a modest 24 in five innings.
After an unbeaten century in the opener, Ishan Kishan has not been able to replicate his form, while middle-order stalwart Heinrich Klaasen is yet to make a substantial impact.
Despite these struggles, SRH seems committed to their aggressive playing style. Head coach Daniel Vettori advocates for improved game awareness while maintaining their strategic philosophy.
"I think we know the style is going to work, but we have to respect conditions, and we have to assess really well and that's probably something we haven't done," Vettori noted.
While SRH's batting issues have been a focal point, their bowling attack has also underperformed.
Despite seasoned pacers like Pat Cummins, Mohammed Shami, and Harshal Patel, SRH have struggled to secure early breakthroughs or apply pressure during the middle overs.
In contrast, Punjab Kings are enjoying early success under the leadership of Shreyas Iyer.
His proficiency with the bat and tactical acumen have propelled the team to three victories in four matches, earning them a spot in the upper tier of the points table.
Adding to Punjab's dynamism is rising star Priyansh Arya, who electrified spectators with a stunning century against CSK, where others faltered.
As SRH look to regain their competitiveness, the upcoming clash promises to test their resolve against a Punjab Kings side brimming with confidence and form.

Delhi Capitals defeated RCB by 6 wickets in IPL 2025, spearheaded by KL Rahul's unbeaten 93. Despite RCB's early gains, late-game dynamics and strategic missteps led to their downfall.

Delhi Capitals Secure Victory with KL Rahul's 93

KL Rahul's commanding 93 not out secured Delhi Capitals’ victory over RCB in IPL 2025. Despite a strong start, RCB couldn't maintain momentum, with on-field tensions highlighted by Virat Kohli's reactions.

Delhi Capitals maintained their unbeaten run in IPL 2025, defeating RCB by 6 wickets, led by KL Rahul's unbeaten 93. RCB's early advantage was lost, sparking on-field discussions. RCB now holds third place, while Delhi leads the standings.

Royal Challengers Bengaluru succumbed to a 6-wicket defeat against the formidable Delhi Capitals in the Indian Premier League (IPL) 2025 clash on Thursday.
Despite a strong start at home while defending a total of 163, RCB couldn't withstand the onslaught led by KL Rahul.
The Capitals' opener, returning to familiar grounds, remained undefeated with a masterful 93, ensuring the visitors maintained their unbeaten streak this season.
RCB initially had the upper hand, dismissing Delhi's top three batters for a paltry 30 runs.
However, as Rahul began to assert his dominance in the latter part of the innings, a visibly animated Virat Kohli was spotted engaging in a fervent discussion with his coach, Dinesh Karthik.
The exchange, captured on live television, has sparked speculation regarding Kohli&rsquo;s dissatisfaction with some decisions made by current skipper Rajat Patidar.
Commentators Aakash Chopra and Virender Sehwag noted that any grievances Kohli may have should be communicated to the captain, as he no longer holds that position.
Observers also noted Kohli sharing his thoughts with veteran pacer Bhuvneshwar Kumar about on-field strategies. The specific reasons for Kohli's visible agitation remain undisclosed.
Rahul's innings was pivotal in the Capitals' chase, allowing them to comfortably reach the target with 2.1 overs remaining. RCB&rsquo;s captain, Rajat Patidar, attributed the team's loss to the batters' failure to capitalize on a seemingly favorable pitch.
Reflecting on the defeat, Patidar remarked, "The wicket appeared suitable for batting, but our performance didn&rsquo;t reflect that. Our top order showed intent but faltered collapsing from 80 for 1 to 90 for 4. Despite having a strong lineup, we need better situational assessment. Tim David's late acceleration was commendable, and our powerplay bowling stood out. Our focus remains on playing good cricket irrespective of where we play."
As a result of the defeat, RCB find themselves third on the points table, while Delhi Capitals solidify their position at the top, asserting their dominance in the 18th edition of the T20 league.

Guardiola's tenure at Manchester City has been defined by incredible success, with 15 major trophies, including the Champions League, making him one of football's most decorated managers. 

"I'm Not Good Enough" – Pep Guardiola Admits Struggles Amid City’s Toughest Season

Guardiola's tenure at Manchester City has been defined by incredible success, with 15 major trophies, including the Champions League, making him one of football's most decorated managers.

Manchester City manager Pep Guardiola is enduring one of the most challenging seasons of his career, with his team's recent struggles highlighted by a shocking 2-1 home defeat to arch-rivals Manchester United on Sunday. Despite leading the Premier League for the past four seasons and boasting a stellar record of trophies, City&rsquo;s current form has been far from their usual high standards.
The reigning champions have lost eight of their last 11 games across all competitions, a slump that has left them fifth in the Premier League, trailing leaders Liverpool by nine points. Addressing the disappointing performances, Guardiola took full responsibility, candidly admitting, "I'm the boss, I'm the manager, and I'm not good enough. It's as simple as that. I'm not doing well. That is the truth."
Guardiola's tenure at Manchester City has been defined by incredible success, with 15 major trophies, including the Champions League, making him one of football's most decorated managers. Over his illustrious career, spanning stints at Barcelona, Bayern Munich, and City, Guardiola has secured 33 major titles. However, this season's struggles represent an unprecedented challenge.
Sunday's loss against Manchester United saw City concede late goals to Bruno Fernandes and Amad Diallo, sparking boos from disheartened fans at the Etihad Stadium. Guardiola, who recently signed a two-year contract extension, acknowledged the uphill battle, saying, "I knew it would be a tough season from the beginning. I said it many times, even when we were winning, but I didn't expect it to be this hard."
The disappointing run has raised questions about City&rsquo;s ability to maintain their dominance. While Guardiola remains committed to turning things around, the team&rsquo;s inconsistency has cast a shadow over their title defence and underscored the magnitude of the challenges ahead.

Football

City has won just one of its last 10 matches in all competitions, with goals by Dušan Vlahovic and Weston McKennie inflicting the latest defeat and igniting Juventus’ qualification hopes.

Man City Struggles in Champions League, Defeated 2-0 by Juventus, Dropping to 22nd Place

City has won just one of its last 10 matches in all competitions, with goals by Du&scaron;an Vlahovic and Weston McKennie inflicting the latest defeat and igniting Juventus&rsquo; qualification hopes.

Manchester City plunged deeper into trouble in the Champions League by losing 2-0 at Juventus, the latest setback in a scarcely believable run of poor results for the ailing English champions.
City dropped to 22nd place in the 36-team standings, with only the top 24 advancing.
Progressing to the next round of the new-look format looked a certainty before the season for a team that was European champion in 2023 and has won the last four Premier League titles. But not anymore as City manager Pep Guardiola battles injuries and an apparent loss of belief among his players.
City has won just one of its last 10 matches in all competitions, with goals by Du&scaron;an Vlahovic and Weston McKennie inflicting the latest defeat and igniting Juventus&rsquo; qualification hopes.
City midfielder Ilkay Gundogan described the team&rsquo;s problem as a &ldquo;mental issue.&rdquo;
Opponents &ldquo;are able to break our rhythm with the smallest of things,&rdquo; Gundogan said on Wednesday.
&ldquo;They don&rsquo;t even need to do much and it has such a big effect on us right now.&rdquo;
Barcelona jumped into second place in the league standings, behind Liverpool, and is guaranteed to advance after a 3-2 win at Borussia Dortmund. Raphinha and Ferran Torres, with two goals, scored for Barca.
Arsenal beat Monaco 3-0 mainly thanks to two goals by Bukayo Saka to move into third place and be the highest of six teams on 13 points.
The top eight qualify directly for the last 16 and the teams placed No. 9-24 go into a two-legged playoff.
Danger for City
City has two games to save its faltering Champions League campaign and the first is against Paris Saint-Germain, another giant in trouble in 25th place &mdash; one spot out of the qualifying positions.
Vlahovic put Juventus ahead in the 53rd when he powered a header goalward straight at City goalkeeper Ederson, who could only parry the ball over his own line. Two American substitutes sealed the win for Juve, with McKennie volleying home from Timothy Weah&rsquo;s cross.
Juventus moved into 14th place.
Super-sub Torres
Ferran Torres came off the bench to inspire Barcelona to a fifth win in six games and push Dortmund, last season&rsquo;s runner-up, out of the top eight.
Torres came on in the 71st to replace Robert Lewandowski, who had a quiet game against his former club. Just four minutes later, Torres scored a goal on the rebound from Dani Olmo&rsquo;s shot.
Serhou Guirassy&rsquo;s second goal of the game leveled the score at 2-2 but Torres scored again in the 85th off Lamine Yamal&rsquo;s pass on the counter.
Raphinha gave Barcelona the lead before Guirassy equalised from the penalty spot. Raphinha and Guirassy are tied for second place in the scoring chart on six goals, behind Lewandowski&rsquo;s competition-high seven.
Home comforts for Arsenal
Arsenal secured a third straight home win without conceding in the league stage, with Saka scoring in the 34th and 78th minutes and sending in a shot that was turned into the net by substitute Kai Havertz in the 88th.
Arsenal is ahead of Bayer Leverkusen, Aston Villa, Inter Milan, Brest and Lille on goal difference. Lille won 3-2 at home to Sturm Graz on Wednesday.
In-form Alvarez
Man City could sure do with Julian Alvarez at the moment.
With a brilliant curling finish to open the scoring, the Argentina striker helped Atletico Madrid beat Slovan Bratislava 3-1 and provide a timely reminder of what City is missing after selling him for more than USD 100 million in August. Alvarez has 12 goals for the season, with four coming in the Champions League.
Antoine Griezmann scored Atletico&rsquo;s other two goals at Metropolitano stadium as the Spanish team climbed to 11th place after a 10th straight win in all competitions.
Tribute to grieving teammate
When Lukasz Lakomy gave Young Boys the lead against Stuttgart, he ran toward the sideline and held up teammate Meschack Elia&rsquo;s jersey as others gathered around him.
The gesture was a tribute after Elia&rsquo;s son died unexpectedly this week after a short illness. Elia wasn&rsquo;t playing as he was on his way to his native Congo, where his son died, to be with his family.
Both teams wore black armbands and there was a moment of silence before the game, which was won 5-1 by Stuttgart.
Late winner
Tammy Abraham scored an 87th-minute winner as AC Milan beat Red Star Belgrade 2-1 to move one point off the top eight. Milan lost Alvaro Morata and Ruben Loftus-Cheek to muscle injuries in the first half.
Benfica&rsquo;s five-match winning streak ended with a 0-0 home draw against Bologna, and Feyenoord had a 4-2 win over Sparta Prague.
(Except for the headline, this story has not been edited by Editorji News Desk and is published from a syndicated feed.)

The 2030 tournament will be the first World Cup played in six different countries, with Spain, Portugal and Morocco as the main hosts while South American nations Argentina, Paraguay and Uruguay will each get one game. 

Ronaldo says 2030 World Cup will be "most special" yet after Portugal confirmed as co-host

The 2030 tournament will be the first World Cup played in six different countries, with Spain, Portugal and Morocco as the main hosts while South American nations Argentina, Paraguay and Uruguay will each get one game.

Cristiano Ronaldo led the celebrations after Portugal and five other countries were officially announced as hosts of the 2030 men's World Cup, with the player saying the unique tournament will be the "most special" yet.
The 2030 tournament will be the first World Cup played in six different countries, with Spain, Portugal and Morocco as the main hosts while South American nations Argentina, Paraguay and Uruguay will each get one game. The format will help FIFA mark the centenary of Uruguay hosting the first World Cup in 1930.
"A dream come true," the 39-year-old Ronaldo wrote in an Instagram post that had a photo of him celebrating while wearing Portugal's jersey and featured the words: "The Most Special World Cup ever."
Ronaldo is the only man to have scored at five World Cup tournaments, but he is unlikely to still be playing in 2030.
"Portugal will host the 2030 World Cup and make us proud," he wrote.
The approval of the six-nation bid was mostly a formality at FIFA's online meeting on Wednesday, with Saudi Arabia also officially confirmed as the 2034 World Cup host.
So reactions in Spain and Portugal were muted, but South American governing body CONMEBOL celebrated a day that its president Alejandro Dom&iacute;nguez said "will go down in the history of South American football."
"FIFA decided to honour history. The World Cup returns home," Dominguez said at the CONMEBOL headquarters in Paraguay.
"We are at home, on the continent that organized the first World Cup ever. The first World Cup was played in Uruguay, the first world champion nation and now we also have the last World Cup champion, Argentina.

Saudi Arabia will host the 2034 FIFA World Cup, despite human rights criticisms. This decision follows Saudi's sole bid as others stepped out. FIFA concurrently announced the 2030 tournament in Spain, Portugal, and Morocco.

CONFIRMED! Saudi Arabia to host FIFA World Cup 2034

There was immediate condemnation from rights groups who insisted that handing the organisation of the tournament to the country puts the lives of construction workers at risk and "marks a moment of great danger".

FIFA on Wednesday confirmed that Saudi Arabia will host the 2034 World Cup, underlining the Gulf kingdom's growing influence in world sport despite criticism of the country's human rights record.
At the same time, a virtual Congress of world football's governing body confirmed that Morocco, Spain and Portugal will be joint hosts of the 2030 World Cup, in which three games will also be played in South America.
The Saudi bid was waved through by acclamation during the meeting of FIFA's 211 national member associations, with no rivals standing in its way.
"It is a proud day, a day of celebration, a day that we invite the entire world to Saudi Arabia," said Abdulaziz bin Turki bin Faisal al Saud, the Saudi Minister of Sports.
"We intend to have an extraordinary version of the World Cup in our kingdom."
However, there was immediate condemnation from rights groups who insisted that handing the organisation of the tournament to the country puts the lives of construction workers at risk and "marks a moment of great danger".
FIFA had invoked its principle of rotating the World Cup between continents, which meant only bids from Asia or Oceania were welcome for 2034.
The unprecedented organisation of the 2030 tournament will involve three continental confederations in Europe, Africa and South America, while the next World Cup in 2026 -- the first involving 48 teams -- will take place across North America.
Controversially, the body gave potential bidders barely a month last year to submit candidacies, and Australia and Indonesia abandoned their interest.
That left Saudi Arabia as the sole candidate, clearing the way for the World Cup to return to the Gulf region so soon after Qatar hosted in 2022.
The kingdom's de facto ruler, Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman, has been using sport for some time to amass influence and improve its global image -- critics say he is effectively "sportswashing" by diverting attention from Saudi Arabia's rights record.
&nbsp;
- 'Moment of great danger' -
The awarding of the World Cup to Saudi will make the issue of human rights a major talking point again, just as it was two years ago.
"We are inclusive and we are non-discriminatory, and we want to obtain positive social impact," FIFA president Gianni Infantino said in closing remarks.
"We are of course aware of critics and fears, and I fully trust our hosts to address all open points from this process and deliver a FIFA World Cup which meets expectations."
He added that "social improvements and positive human rights impacts" are "responsibilities of hosting a World Cup."
Rights groups highlight mass executions in Saudi Arabia and allegations of torture, as well as restrictions on women under the conservative country's male guardianship system. Free expression is severely restricted too.
FIFA's decision to award the tournament to Saudi Arabia "despite the well-known and severe risks to residents, migrant workers and visiting fans alike, marks a moment of great danger," Amnesty International and 20 other organisations said in a joint statement.
"Based on clear evidence to date, FIFA knows workers will be exploited and even die without fundamental reforms in Saudi Arabia, and yet has chosen to press ahead regardless," said Steve Cockburn, Amnesty's Head of Labour Rights and Sport.
England's Football Association meanwhile said it had received assurances from Saudi Arabia that LGBTQ fans would be "safe and welcome" at the tournament.
&nbsp;
- 'Centenary celebration' -
The 2030 tournament will mark a century since the first World Cup was held in Uruguay, and as a result the unrivalled joint bid by Morocco, Spain and Portugal will also see the South American nation handed one game along with Argentina and Paraguay.
FIFA confirmed over a year ago that the joint proposal led by Morocco, Spain and Portugal was the sole contender for 2030, with all other potential candidacies having fallen by the wayside.
Four South American countries launched a joint bid in 2019, convinced that the centenary World Cup should entirely take place on the continent where it all began.
Meanwhile, Morocco replaced Ukraine as a partner for Spain and Portugal, while South America agreed to step aside in exchange for hosting three games.
Following these "centenary celebrations" in the southern hemisphere winter, the six teams involved will cross the Atlantic to play the rest of the tournament.
Spain, which hosted the 1982 World Cup, should be the main host as it boasts 11 of the 20 proposed stadiums.
Morocco -- after failing in five previous bids -- will become the second African nation to host the competition after South Africa in 2010.
Potential venues for the July 21 final include the Santiago Bernabeu in Madrid and Barcelona's renovated Camp Nou as well as the planned Hassan II stadium between Casablanca and Rabat, set to boast a 115,000 capacity.

Thomas Tuchel has been appointed as England's new football manager, succeeding Gareth Southgate. Known for his tactical flexibility and knockout football expertise, the former Chelsea & PSG coach faces immense pressure to break England’s trophy droug

England appoint Thomas Tuchel: Will the German Help the Three Lions Finally Bring it Home?

Thomas Tuchel has been appointed as England's new football manager, succeeding Gareth Southgate. Known for his tactical flexibility and knockout football expertise, the former Chelsea & PSG coach faces immense pressure to break England’s trophy drought.

Thomas Tuchel has been appointed as England's new football manager, succeeding Gareth Southgate. Known for his tactical flexibility and knockout football expertise, the former Chelsea &amp; PSG coach faces immense pressure to break England&rsquo;s trophy drought.

There's a new man in charge of the England Men's Football team! After months of speculation, Thomas Tuchel has been appointed as Gareth Southgate's successor, becoming the first non-British coach of the Three Lions in over a decade.
 Under Southgate, England became perennial contenders, reaching a World Cup semi-final, two Euros finals, and a third-place finish in the Nations League. Over nearly eight years and more than 100 matches, he raised expectations but left with unfinished business.
 Tuchel steps into a pressure cooker where expectations have never been higher and he must deliver where numerous others before him have fallen short.
 In Tuchel, England have a manager who is no stranger to winning. The German has a track record with top clubs like Borussia Dortmund, PSG, Chelsea, and Bayern Munich. His honours list includes three league titles and three domestic cups, alongside the UEFA Champions League, UEFA Super Cup and the FIFA Club World Cup to his name. But can his club success translate to the international stage?
 England's history with foreign managers has been mixed. The late Sven-G&ouml;ran Eriksson led the team to three successive quarter-finals between 2001 and 2006 but couldn't secure a trophy. Fabio Capello oversaw a lacklustre 2010 World Cup campaign before his acrimonious exit few months ahead of Euro 2012.
 Since 1966, England have been chasing that elusive second major international trophy. They've come close in recent tournaments but always fall short when it matters most. The question now is, can Tuchel break the curse?
 Tuchel is known for tactical flexibility and meticulous preparation, skills that served him well in the club game. But managing a national team is different - limited time with players, shorter bursts of preparation. The spotlight will be brutal. Southgate was a player&rsquo;s manager, shielding them from media criticism. Tuchel's more direct approach could ruffle feathers with players or fans who remain loyal to Southgate&rsquo;s style.
 One thing working in Tuchel&rsquo;s favour: he&rsquo;s a master of knockout football. At Chelsea, he guided the Blues to a Champions League title in just four months, often outthinking his opponents and adapting tactics mid-game. England may need that same tactical brilliance to finally overcome their mental barriers in major tournaments.
 But history isn't on his side. England&rsquo;s struggles with penalty shootouts and last-minute heartbreaks will weigh heavily. Tuchel&rsquo;s task isn't just tactical; it's about instilling belief and resilience in a side haunted by past failures. Could his pragmatic approach be the missing ingredient to end England's long wait?
 There's no denying that Tuchel's appointment brings both immense promise and daunting challenges. But there are many questions: Can he handle the pressure? Can his club-level success translate to the international stage? Or will the burden of managing the Three Lions prove too much once again?
 One thing&rsquo;s for sure &ndash; the next chapter in England&rsquo;s football story is going to be fascinating.
 Be sure to like, subscribe, and hit that bell icon to stay updated with more intriguing stories from the world of sports.

Antoine Griezmann's move from Atletico Madrid to Barcelona in 2019, for €120 million, failed to live up to expectations. Struggling to adapt and facing off-field pressures, he returned to Atletico, where he's since rekindled his form.


Antoine Griezmann: How the Atletico Madrid star became a flop show at Barcelona

Antoine Griezmann's move from Atletico Madrid to Barcelona in 2019, for &euro;120 million, failed to live up to expectations. Struggling to adapt and facing off-field pressures, he returned to Atletico, where he's since rekindled his form.

Welcome back to Failed Football Transfers, where we analyse football's most notable transfer flops. Today, we're focusing on Antoine Griezmann, a player whose much-anticipated move from Atletico Madrid to Barcelona in 2019 promised so much yet ultimately delivered so little. How did a World Cup winner and one of Europe&rsquo;s finest talents struggle to make a lasting impact at Camp Nou? Let&rsquo;s delve into this intriguing saga.
 Antoine Griezmann rose to prominence at Real Sociedad before shining at Atletico Madrid, where he became a key figure. In his first five seasons with Atletico, he recorded 183 goal contributions in 257 appearances. He was vital to the club&rsquo;s success, winning the UEFA Europa League, UEFA Super Cup, and leading Atletico to the 2016 Champions League final. He also played a crucial role in France&rsquo;s 2018 World Cup triumph.
 With such stellar performances under Diego Simeone, speculation about a transfer to Barcelona became inevitable. In 2019, the Catalan giants activated his release clause of a staggering &euro;120 million. Following the underwhelming performances of Philippe Coutinho and Ousmane Dembele, Griezmann was expected to be the missing piece in Barcelona&rsquo;s attacking puzzle, joining superstars like Lionel Messi and Luis Suarez.
 However, the transition from Madrid to Barcelona was anything but smooth. Griezmann found it challenging to adapt to a system that demanded a different role. Often playing second fiddle to Messi, he struggled to make his mark, with moments of brilliance overshadowed by inconsistency.
 One of the biggest challenges was the lack of clarity about his position. At Atletico, he excelled as a central forward or winger, but at Camp Nou, he was frequently shuffled around, never finding his rhythm. Under pressure to justify his hefty price tag, Griezmann faced constant scrutiny, which further affected his confidence.
 Off-field distractions also played a role. The media relentlessly compared him to his predecessors, highlighting every misstep and undermining his confidence. Despite his best efforts, he could not replicate the goal-scoring form that had previously made him a star.
 By the end of his second season at Barcelona, it became clear that Griezmann was not the transformative signing the club had hoped for. With just 35 goals in 102 appearances, his contributions were decent but fell far short of expectations. He clinched only one trophy, a Copa del Rey in 2021, and his performances often reflected the overall struggle within the squad.
 In the summer of 2021, Griezmann returned to Atletico Madrid on loan, effectively marking the end of his time at Barcelona. The move was seen as a form of redemption, allowing him to return to a club where he felt valued and could thrive once again.
 Since his return, Griezmann has rekindled his form and made a significant impact. His loan was made permanent in 2022, and he quickly re-established himself as a pivotal figure in Simeone&rsquo;s attacking setup. In the 2022-23 season, Griezmann played a central role in Atletico's pursuit of success, providing a league-high 16 assists and scoring 15 goals.
 His performances have revitalised his career and helped Atletico remain competitive in both La Liga and European competitions. Griezmann&rsquo;s experience and winning mentality, honed during his time with the French national team and at Atletico, have added vital depth to the squad.
 Although he has now retired from international football, Griezmann continues to help Atletico Madrid challenge for silverware. His resurgence is a testament to his resilience and dedication, proving that his time at Barcelona was an anomaly rather than a true reflection of his abilities.
 Thanks for joining us on this episode of Failed Football Transfers. Be sure to like, subscribe, and hit that bell icon for more stories from the world of football. See you next time!
&nbsp;

Paul Pogba’s £89m return to Manchester United was filled with promise but ended in disappointment. Tactical clashes, injuries, & off-field distractions marred his second stint at Old Trafford. 

Paul Pogba: The £89 million disappointment at Manchester United

Paul Pogba&rsquo;s &pound;89m return to Manchester United was filled with promise but ended in disappointment. Tactical clashes, injuries, &amp; off-field distractions marred his second stint at Old Trafford.&nbsp;

Welcome back to Failed Football Transfers, where we break down football&rsquo;s most expensive and high-profile transfer flops. Today, we&rsquo;re looking at a player whose career has been filled with highs and lows - Paul Pogba and his much-anticipated return to Manchester United from Juventus in 2016. How did one of the world&rsquo;s most talented midfielders, who left United as a youngster and thrived at Juventus, fail to make his second stint at Old Trafford a lasting success? Let&rsquo;s find out.
In 2016, Pogba was the talk of world football. After leaving Manchester United in 2012 for free, he became a global superstar at Juventus, winning four Serie A titles and reaching the 2015 Champions League final. His dominant displays in midfield made him one of the most sought-after players in the game. When United announced his return for a then-world record fee of &pound;89 million, the excitement was off the charts, with the #Pogback campaign adding to the hype. With France, he was also a key figure, helping his nation reach the Euro 2016 final
United fans believed that Pogba&rsquo;s return would signal a new era of dominance with Jose Mourinho also taking the reins at Old Trafford. His first season saw him help United lift the League Cup and Europa League. Initially, it seemed like a match made in heaven but cracks soon appeared. Pogba&rsquo;s inconsistent form, combined with tactical clashes with Mourinho, stifled his performances. While there were moments of brilliance, like his brace that inspired a comeback win against Manchester City in 2018, those flashes were too infrequent.
One of the key issues was his breakdown of relationship with Mourinho, which hit rock bottom in 2018 when Pogba was stripped of the vice-captaincy. Off-field distractions, including public comments from his agent Mino Raiola, and persistent transfer rumours, further overshadowed his time at Old Trafford.
By 2022, his injury problems worsened, sidelining him for large portions of his final two seasons. Pogba eventually left Manchester United on a free transfer, once again rejoining Juventus.
Unfortunately, his return to Turin has been no better. Injury troubles persisted, and in 2023, Pogba tested positive for testosterone, resulting in a doping suspension. Originally facing a four-year ban, his sentence was reduced to 18 months, allowing him to return to competitive football in March 2025.
Despite these struggles, Pogba&rsquo;s career wasn&rsquo;t without highlights. In 2018, he was instrumental in France&rsquo;s World Cup triumph, a moment that cemented his place among the world&rsquo;s elite.&nbsp;
Pogba&rsquo;s second spell at Manchester United is one of football&rsquo;s great "what if" stories. On his day, he was one of the best midfielders in the world, capable of dominating games and producing moments of magic. But inconsistency, injuries, and off-field distractions meant that he never fully delivered on his world-record fee. His time at Old Trafford will be remembered as a saga of untapped potential, and another expensive lesson in football&rsquo;s unpredictable world of transfers.
Thanks for tuning into Failed Football Transfers. Be sure to like, subscribe, and hit that bell icon for more episodes. See you next time!

Sports

BCCI overhauls coaching staff after BGT disappointment

IPL 2025: Mitchell Starc's brilliance guides Delhi Capitals to Super Over victory over RR

Australia crushes Sri Lanka by an innings and 242 runs in historic Test victory

Sachin Tendulkar to get BCCI Lifetime Achievement Award

Virat Kohli dismissed for six runs in Ranji Trophy return leaving fans disappointed

Jasprit Bumrah named ICC Men’s Cricketer of the Year 2024, wins Sir Garfield Sobers Trophy

Mumbai Cricket Association commemorates 50 years of Wankhede Stadium with a Guinness World Record

Cricket

Rishabh Pant named Lucknow Super Giants captain for IPL 2025

RCB alleges Uber Moto's ad disparages its trademark

Rohit Sharma's form in IPL hampers MI momentum. Anjum Chopra suggests strategic changes

DC captain Axar Patel fined Rs 12 lakh for maintaining a slow over-rate against MI

PSL: James Vince gets hair dryer as reward for century in Karachi Kings vs Multan Sultans

SRH seeks to bounce back against high-flying Punjab Kings

Kohli's Reaction to Patidar Sparks Speculation

Football

"I'm Not Good Enough" – Pep Guardiola Admits Struggles Amid City’s Toughest Season

Man City Struggles in Champions League, Defeated 2-0 by Juventus, Dropping to 22nd Place

Ronaldo says 2030 World Cup will be "most special" yet after Portugal confirmed as co-host

FIFA confirms Saudi Arabia as 2034 World Cup host

England appoint Thomas Tuchel: Will the German Help the Three Lions Finally Bring it Home?

Antoine Griezmann: How the Atletico Madrid star became a flop show at Barcelona

Paul Pogba: The £89 million disappointment at Manchester United

More Sports news

Jannik Sinner: Truly ‘Sin-sensational’!

Adam Zampa Ruled Out of IPL 2025 Due to Shoulder Injury

KL Rahul celebrated a significant IPL win inspired by the film 'Kantara' at Chinnaswamy

RCB's captain Rajat Patidar laments batting collapse versus DC

CSK's decision contrasts Mumbai Indians' leadership choices

Stephen Fleming is optimistic about reviving team performance under Dhoni's leadership.

Cricket Returns to Olympics After 128 Years: T20 Format Set for LA 2028 with Only Six Teams

IPL 2025: KL Rahul's 93 and spinners' craftiness guide DC to six-wicket win over RCB

Categories