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Best Batting Performance - Chris Gayle 175 not out
Best Bowling Performance - Alzarri Joseph 6/12
Best Team Total - 287/3 by SRH
Most Total Sixes in an IPL Match - 42 in KKR vs PBKS
Highest Total Chased - 262 by PBKS
Lowest Total Defended - 111 by PBKS
Best Partnership by Runs - 229 by ABD & Kohli

As IPL 2026 gears up to begin, let's have a look at the best performance in the tournament history from batting, bowling to partnership and individual brilliance.

IPL Records: List of Best Batting, Bowling and Team Records in IPL History

Star Australian pacer Mitchell Starc will miss the initial stage of IPL 2026, as reported by cricket.com.au, joining fellow Australians Josh Hazlewood and Pat Cummins, who will also not feature at the start of the tournament. According to the report, Cricket Australia is managing its key bowlers carefully due to an upcoming packed international schedule. From August, Australia’s Test team is expected to play up to 21 matches in a year, including important tours of South Africa, India and England, followed by the ICC ODI World Cup 2027. The return of these players will depend on how well they recover in the coming weeks.&nbsp;“Cricket Australia is taking a cautious approach with their star multi-format bowlers given what lies ahead: from August, the Test side will play up to 21 matches in a 12-month period, including legacy-defining tours of South Africa, India and England, before defending their ODI World Cup crown in Southern Africa in late 2027. The trio’s availability will depend on progress in their return to play protocols over the next few weeks," the report stated.&nbsp;Also Read - <a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/march-madness-watch-vcu-stuns-unc-thanks-to-3p-dagger-in-ot-by-terrence-hill-jr-1773976185584">March Madness | WATCH - VCU stuns UNC, thanks to 3P dagger in OT by Hill</a>&nbsp;Cummins, who leads Australia in Tests, played only one match in the 2025-26 The Ashes due to a back injury. Hazlewood, on the other hand, missed the entire series because of hamstring and Achilles issues. Both players also missed the T20 World Cup 2026, held in India and Sri Lanka.&nbsp;In Cummins’ absence, Ishan Kishan will lead Hyderabad at the start of the season, which begins on Mar 28.&nbsp;Another Australian pacer, Nathan Ellis, is ruled out of the IPL 2026 due to a hamstring injury. He had recovered earlier to play in the World Cup but got injured again during a domestic final in Hobart.&nbsp;Also Read - <a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/fifa-reprimands-israeli-football-association-for-breaching-anti-discrimination-objectives-1773971924922">FIFA reprimands Israeli Football for breaching anti-discrimination objectives</a>&nbsp;Young Australian bowler Jack Edwards will also miss IPL 2026 due to a foot injury. He had performed well in the Big Bash League, taking 19 wickets in 13 matches.&nbsp;Starc’s absence is a big setback for Delhi Capitals, as he is their lead bowler and picked up 14 wickets in 11 matches last season. In his absence, South African pacer Lungi Ngidi is expected to lead the bowling attack, with support from T. Natarajan, Auqib Nabi Dar, Kyle Jamieson and Dushmantha Chameera.

This decision comes ahead of a demanding year, as Australia’s Test side prepares for a heavy workload of up to 21 matches over the next 12 months starting in August.

Star Australian pacer Mitchell Starc will miss the initial stage of IPL 2026, as reported by cricket.com.au, joining fellow Australians Josh Hazlewood and Pat Cummins, who will also not feature at the start of the tournament. According to the report, Cricket Australia is managing its key bowlers carefully due to an upcoming packed international schedule. From August, Australia’s Test team is expected to play up to 21 matches in a year, including important tours of South Africa, India and England, followed by the ICC ODI World Cup 2027. The return of these players will depend on how well they recover in the coming weeks. “Cricket Australia is taking a cautious approach with their star multi-format bowlers given what lies ahead: from August, the Test side will play up to 21 matches in a 12-month period, including legacy-defining tours of South Africa, India and England, before defending their ODI World Cup crown in Southern Africa in late 2027. The trio’s availability will depend on progress in their return to play protocols over the next few weeks," the report stated. Also Read - March Madness | WATCH - VCU stuns UNC, thanks to 3P dagger in OT by Hill Cummins, who leads Australia in Tests, played only one match in the 2025-26 The Ashes due to a back injury. Hazlewood, on the other hand, missed the entire series because of hamstring and Achilles issues. Both players also missed the T20 World Cup 2026, held in India and Sri Lanka. In Cummins’ absence, Ishan Kishan will lead Hyderabad at the start of the season, which begins on Mar 28. Another Australian pacer, Nathan Ellis, is ruled out of the IPL 2026 due to a hamstring injury. He had recovered earlier to play in the World Cup but got injured again during a domestic final in Hobart. Also Read - FIFA reprimands Israeli Football for breaching anti-discrimination objectives Young Australian bowler Jack Edwards will also miss IPL 2026 due to a foot injury. He had performed well in the Big Bash League, taking 19 wickets in 13 matches. Starc’s absence is a big setback for Delhi Capitals, as he is their lead bowler and picked up 14 wickets in 11 matches last season. In his absence, South African pacer Lungi Ngidi is expected to lead the bowling attack, with support from T. Natarajan, Auqib Nabi Dar, Kyle Jamieson and Dushmantha Chameera.

This decision comes ahead of a demanding year, as Australia’s Test side prepares for a heavy workload of up to 21 matches over the next 12 months starting in August.

Delhi Capitals suffer early setback as Mitchell Starc set to miss initial stage of IPL 2026

All the sides will be led by Indian captain for now with Ishan Kishan replacing Pat Cummins for SRH till the Aussie pacer recovers from the injury.

All the sides will be led by Indian captain for now with Ishan Kishan replacing Pat Cummins for SRH till the Aussie pacer recovers from the injury.

IPL 2026 Captains List: Team-wise captain names

The VCU Rams showed on Thursday (Mar 19) why NCAA Division I men's basketball tournament is called March Madness. VUC was 19 points behind North Carolina Tar Heels but not only managed to tie the game but eventually won it in the overtime. The hero of the thriller was VCU guard Terrence Hill Jr. who shot a dagger 3 with 15 second remaining in the OT and Tar Heels could not come over that. The Rams won the game 82-78 with Hill scoring 34 points during 40 minutes of play. Have a look at the game-changing 3P from Hill that eventually sunk UNC:

<blockquote class="twitter-tweet" data-media-max-width="560">VCU LEADS ‼️<a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/MarchMadness?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#MarchMadness</a> <a href="https://t.co/GsJ0arWPNz">pic.twitter.com/GsJ0arWPNz</a>&mdash; NCAA March Madness (@MarchMadnessMBB) <a href="https://twitter.com/MarchMadnessMBB/status/2034801956246487391?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">March 20, 2026</a></blockquote> <script async src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script>

<h2>Who is Terrence Hill Jr?</h2>Terrence is 20-year-old sophomore VCU guard from Portland, Oregon. He was born on December 22, 2005 and attended Roosevelt High School in Portland. In 2024, he was Portland Interscholastic League Player of the Year and also earned First Team All-State and OSAA 6A First Team All-Tournament honors.While at school, he helped Roosevelt to a 26-3 record as well as a place in 6A state championship game in 2023-24. He averaged 21.9 points, 5.7 rebounds, and 4.9 assists per game in his senior year in school.<h2>What about other First Round results in March Madness?</h2>Among the other games played on Thursday (Mar 19) in First Round of March Madness 2026, below are the results:<h3>(12) High Point 83 beat (5) Wisconsin 82</h3>The High Point Panthers were playing in their second straight NCAA Tournament and did one up this time. After upsetting No. 5 Wisconsin, High Point now finally have a win in the NCAA tourney. The Panthers, winners of Big South Title for two consecutive seasons, had lost to Purdue in Round of 64 last year.<h3>(1) Duke 71 beat (16) Siena 65</h3>The five-time NCAA title winners Duke were in serious danger of losing out in the first round itself but came good eventually, specially in last eight minutes when they scored 11 points on the trot with an answer to get ahead in the game.<h3>(4) Nebraska 76 beat (13) Troy 47</h3>The Cornhuskers, who were 0-8 in the NCAA tournament before the game against Troy, finally managed to get a W - their first in school history and about time it came.<h3>(9) TCU 66 beat (8) Ohio State 64</h3><h3>(6) Louisville 83 beat (11) South Florida 79</h3><h3>(5) Vanderbilt 78 beat (12) McNeese State 68</h3><h3>(3) Michigan State 92 beat (14) ND State 67</h3><h3>(4) Arkansas 97 beat (13) Hawaii 78</h3><h3>(1) Michigan 101 beat (16) Howard 80</h3>&nbsp;

The Rams won the game 82-78 against UNC Tar Heels with Hill scoring 34 points during 40 minutes of play including draining go-ahead 3P with 15 seconds left in OT.

The VCU Rams showed on Thursday (Mar 19) why NCAA Division I men's basketball tournament is called March Madness. VUC was 19 points behind North Carolina Tar Heels but not only managed to tie the game but eventually won it in the overtime. The hero of the thriller was VCU guard Terrence Hill Jr. who shot a dagger 3 with 15 second remaining in the OT and Tar Heels could not come over that. The Rams won the game 82-78 with Hill scoring 34 points during 40 minutes of play. Have a look at the game-changing 3P from Hill that eventually sunk UNC:

The Rams won the game 82-78 against UNC Tar Heels with Hill scoring 34 points during 40 minutes of play including draining go-ahead 3P with 15 seconds left in OT.

March Madness | WATCH - VCU stuns UNC, thanks to 3P dagger in OT by Terrence Hill Jr.

FIFA fined the Israeli Football Association (IFA) 150,000 Swiss francs ($190,700) on Thursday for "multiple breaches" of its anti-discrimination obligations. A report by the disciplinary committee of world football's governing body found the IFA "failed to take meaningful action against Beitar Jerusalem" for "persistent and well-documented racist behaviour". In October 2024, the Palestine Football Association reported allegations of discrimination by the IFA to FIFA, which initiated an investigation. FIFA did not opt for the sanction requested by the Palestinian FA, which argued for a suspension of the IFA.Also Read - <a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/-we-ll-boycott-america-but-iran-clears-stance-on-fifa-world-cup-2026-participation-1773909607242">'We'll boycott America, but...': Iran on FIFA World Cup 2026 participation</a>But the IFA was found to have failed to "abide by FIFA's statutory objectives", in a lengthy decision published by its disciplinary committee, which listed several racist incidents in Israeli football.The disciplinary committee highlighted "deficient and substantively inadequate" sanctions against Israeli club Beitar for racist and discriminatory behaviour."Supporters have engaged in persistent and well-documented racist behaviour," the report said of Beitar fans."The club's use of slogans such as 'forever pure', and the repeated chanting of ethnic slurs such as 'terrorist' directed at Arab players are not isolated incidents but rather form part of a systemic pattern of conduct that offends the basic rules of decent behaviour and brings the sport into disrepute."The committee underlined that said club is only a small example of a general failure by the IFA."The IFA was issued with a warning and was ordered to display a "significant and highly visible banner" at its next three FIFA competition home matches, stating "Football Unites the World - No to Discrimination".The IFA will also have to invest one-third of the fine towards implementing a plan to "ensure action against discrimination and to prevent repeated incidents".The report also said that the IFA's failure to respond to "political and militaristic messaging" by the CEO of the Israeli professional league and by Maccabi Netanya "further compounds its breach"."The IFA has made no public statements condemning racism, has not launched any Anti Discrimination campaigns, and has not taken steps to foster inclusion of Arab or Palestinian players," the report continued.“It has not used its platform to promote peace or to counteract the politicisation of football by affiliated clubs and officials.”<h2>'No action' over Israeli teams in West Bank</h2>After a separate investigation, FIFA announced no action would be taken against the IFA over allegations that Israeli clubs based in the occupied West Bank were taking part in Israel's leagues."FIFA should take no action given that, in the context of the interpretation of the relevant provisions of the FIFA statutes, the final legal status of the West Bank remains an unresolved and highly complex matter under public international law," FIFA's governance, audit and compliance committee said in a statement.In 2024, United Nations experts -- mandated by the Human Rights Council but not speaking on behalf of the UN -- said at least eight football clubs had been identified as playing in "Israeli colonial settlements" and called on FIFA to "fulfil its responsibility to respect human rights"."The autonomy and self-regulation in sport must not be detrimental to fundamental human rights," the experts said.In addition to roughly three million Palestinians, more than 500,000 Israelis live in settlements and outposts in the West Bank, which are illegal under international law.

IFA was found to have failed to "abide by FIFA's statutory objectives", in a lengthy decision published by its disciplinary committee, which listed several racist incidents in Israeli football.

FIFA fined the Israeli Football Association (IFA) 150,000 Swiss francs ($190,700) on Thursday for "multiple breaches" of its anti-discrimination obligations. A report by the disciplinary committee of world football's governing body found the IFA "failed to take meaningful action against Beitar Jerusalem" for "persistent and well-documented racist behaviour". In October 2024, the Palestine Football Association reported allegations of discrimination by the IFA to FIFA, which initiated an investigation. FIFA did not opt for the sanction requested by the Palestinian FA, which argued for a suspension of the IFA. Also Read - 'We'll boycott America, but...': Iran on FIFA World Cup 2026 participation But the IFA was found to have failed to "abide by FIFA's statutory objectives", in a lengthy decision published by its disciplinary committee, which listed several racist incidents in Israeli football. The disciplinary committee highlighted "deficient and substantively inadequate" sanctions against Israeli club Beitar for racist and discriminatory behaviour. "Supporters have engaged in persistent and well-documented racist behaviour," the report said of Beitar fans. "The club's use of slogans such as 'forever pure', and the repeated chanting of ethnic slurs such as 'terrorist' directed at Arab players are not isolated incidents but rather form part of a systemic pattern of conduct that offends the basic rules of decent behaviour and brings the sport into disrepute. "The committee underlined that said club is only a small example of a general failure by the IFA." The IFA was issued with a warning and was ordered to display a "significant and highly visible banner" at its next three FIFA competition home matches, stating "Football Unites the World - No to Discrimination". The IFA will also have to invest one-third of the fine towards implementing a plan to "ensure action against discrimination and to prevent repeated incidents". The report also said that the IFA's failure to respond to "political and militaristic messaging" by the CEO of the Israeli professional league and by Maccabi Netanya "further compounds its breach". "The IFA has made no public statements condemning racism, has not launched any Anti Discrimination campaigns, and has not taken steps to foster inclusion of Arab or Palestinian players," the report continued. “It has not used its platform to promote peace or to counteract the politicisation of football by affiliated clubs and officials.” 'No action' over Israeli teams in West Bank After a separate investigation, FIFA announced no action would be taken against the IFA over allegations that Israeli clubs based in the occupied West Bank were taking part in Israel's leagues. "FIFA should take no action given that, in the context of the interpretation of the relevant provisions of the FIFA statutes, the final legal status of the West Bank remains an unresolved and highly complex matter under public international law," FIFA's governance, audit and compliance committee said in a statement. In 2024, United Nations experts -- mandated by the Human Rights Council but not speaking on behalf of the UN -- said at least eight football clubs had been identified as playing in "Israeli colonial settlements" and called on FIFA to "fulfil its responsibility to respect human rights". "The autonomy and self-regulation in sport must not be detrimental to fundamental human rights," the experts said. In addition to roughly three million Palestinians, more than 500,000 Israelis live in settlements and outposts in the West Bank, which are illegal under international law.

IFA was found to have failed to "abide by FIFA's statutory objectives", in a lengthy decision published by its disciplinary committee, which listed several racist incidents in Israeli football.

FIFA reprimands Israeli Football Association for breaching anti-discrimination objectives

Rajasthan Royals could have a huge shoe to fill with little over a week to go for the Indian Premier League (IPL 2026) season to start. According to a media report circulating on Thursday (Mar 19), all-rounder Sam Curran is likely to miss the entire season, which starts on Saturday (Mar 28). Curran was one of the two players traded to RR from Chennai Super Kings (CSK) along with Ravindra Jadeja.<h2>Curran to miss IPL 2026?</h2>According to a report from prominent cricket website Espncricinfo, Curran has suffered a groin injury, which could see him miss at least two months of cricket. This means he could miss the entire IPL 2026, which begins next season. The English all-rounder was a high-profile trade from CSK in November, which saw Ravindra Jadeja also come to the 2008 champions, while Sanju Samson was released.&nbsp;While the extent of the injury is unknown, Curran’s unavailability could be a huge issue for the Rajasthan management. In case Curran’s unavailability is confirmed, RR will have to stress their resources and find a like-to-like replacement. In case the injury is confirmed, the IPL commission will only allow a like-for-like replacement.&nbsp;ALSO READ | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/photos/from-chris-gayle-to-brendon-mccullum-5-batters-to-score-fastest-t20-world-cup-hundreds-rilee-rossouw-ahmed-shehzad-1768553361691">From Chris Gayle to Brendon McCullum, 5 batters to score fastest T20 World Cup hundreds</a>&nbsp;RR would have been the third franchise Curran would have represented in the IPL after having started his career at Punjab Kings (PBKS) in 2019. Curran then played for CSK in 2020 and 2021, before returning to PBKS in 2023 as the league's most expensive player at INR 18.5 crore, and playing for them again in 2024. Curran was bought back by CSK for INR 2.4 crore for IPL 2025, which he finished with 114 runs and only one wicket in five games.&nbsp;ALSO READ | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/photos/meet-indians-to-score-most-runs-in-each-of-last-5-t20-world-cups-ft-virat-kohli-kl-rahul-rohit-sharma-2026-t20-world-cup-1768479871185">Meet Indians to score most runs in each of last 5 T20 World Cups ft Virat Kohli</a>&nbsp;Apart from Jadeja, RR also have another allrounder in Donovan Ferreira, a power-hitter who can bowl quickish offspin. Just like Jadeja and Curran, Ferreria, too, was bought by RR via a trade at his base price of INR 1 crore from the Delhi Capitals.

According to a media report circulating on Thursday (Mar 19), all-rounder Sam Curran is likely to miss the entire season, which starts on Saturday (Mar 28). Curran was one of the two players traded to RR from Chennai Super Kings (CSK) along with Ravindra Jadeja.

Rajasthan Royals could have a huge shoe to fill with little over a week to go for the Indian Premier League (IPL 2026) season to start. According to a media report circulating on Thursday (Mar 19), all-rounder Sam Curran is likely to miss the entire season, which starts on Saturday (Mar 28). Curran was one of the two players traded to RR from Chennai Super Kings (CSK) along with Ravindra Jadeja. Curran to miss IPL 2026? According to a report from prominent cricket website Espncricinfo, Curran has suffered a groin injury, which could see him miss at least two months of cricket. This means he could miss the entire IPL 2026, which begins next season. The English all-rounder was a high-profile trade from CSK in November, which saw Ravindra Jadeja also come to the 2008 champions, while Sanju Samson was released. While the extent of the injury is unknown, Curran’s unavailability could be a huge issue for the Rajasthan management. In case Curran’s unavailability is confirmed, RR will have to stress their resources and find a like-to-like replacement. In case the injury is confirmed, the IPL commission will only allow a like-for-like replacement. ALSO READ | From Chris Gayle to Brendon McCullum, 5 batters to score fastest T20 World Cup hundreds RR would have been the third franchise Curran would have represented in the IPL after having started his career at Punjab Kings (PBKS) in 2019. Curran then played for CSK in 2020 and 2021, before returning to PBKS in 2023 as the league's most expensive player at INR 18.5 crore, and playing for them again in 2024. Curran was bought back by CSK for INR 2.4 crore for IPL 2025, which he finished with 114 runs and only one wicket in five games. ALSO READ | Meet Indians to score most runs in each of last 5 T20 World Cups ft Virat Kohli Apart from Jadeja, RR also have another allrounder in Donovan Ferreira, a power-hitter who can bowl quickish offspin. Just like Jadeja and Curran, Ferreria, too, was bought by RR via a trade at his base price of INR 1 crore from the Delhi Capitals.

According to a media report circulating on Thursday (Mar 19), all-rounder Sam Curran is likely to miss the entire season, which starts on Saturday (Mar 28). Curran was one of the two players traded to RR from Chennai Super Kings (CSK) along with Ravindra Jadeja.

IPL 2026: Sam Curran likely to miss entire season with suspected groin injury - Report

&nbsp;Rajasthan Royals captain Riyan Parag has hailed Sanju Samson’s impact on the game as he termed the World Cup winners irreplaceable on Thursday (Mar 19). Speaking in a pre-season event, Parag compared Samson to Virat Kohli and Rohit Sharma and said their impact is unparalleled. According to Parag, they can try different players, but replacing Samson will be a huge task. The former skipper in November 2025 was traded to Chennai Super Kings, while Ravindra Jadeja went in the opposite direction.<h2>Parag hails Samson’s impact</h2>"We can only try to look for players with the same skills [like Samson] and someone who can fill the hole left by him in the batting order," Parag said in Jaipur. "Just like you cannot replace Virat Kohli or Rohit Sharma in any XI, Samson is irreplaceable.&nbsp;ALSO READ | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/photos/meet-indians-to-score-most-runs-in-each-of-last-5-t20-world-cups-ft-virat-kohli-kl-rahul-rohit-sharma-2026-t20-world-cup-1768479871185">Meet Indians to score most runs in each of last 5 T20 World Cups ft Virat Kohli</a>&nbsp;"But will we plan something new? That's what we've been discussing in the build-up. If you see last season, we lost five or six close games; in fact, a couple of games were last-ball defeats. This season, if those few games go in our favour, then we won't be asked about our issues any longer.&nbsp;ALSO READ | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/photos/from-chris-gayle-to-brendon-mccullum-5-batters-to-score-fastest-t20-world-cup-hundreds-rilee-rossouw-ahmed-shehzad-1768553361691">From Chris Gayle to Brendon McCullum, 5 batters to score fastest T20 World Cup hundreds</a>&nbsp;"In any 40-over game, there will be a few moments where you have to make the right decisions and that's what I'll focus on - like who will bat where, or what to do at the toss - and if we do that well, then this year will be a good one."&nbsp;In November, Samson was traded to CSK, with Jadeja going in the opposite direction. This meant Samson would end his long association with the Rajasthan Royals, where he had served for 12 seasons across two spells. In a productive career, he scored 4027 runs from 149 matches with a best of 119 and also scored two hundreds.

In November, Sanju Samson was traded to CSK, with Ravindra Jadeja going in the opposite direction. This meant Samson would end his long association with the Rajasthan Royals, where he had served for 12 seasons across two spells.

Rajasthan Royals captain Riyan Parag has hailed Sanju Samson’s impact on the game as he termed the World Cup winners irreplaceable on Thursday (Mar 19). Speaking in a pre-season event, Parag compared Samson to Virat Kohli and Rohit Sharma and said their impact is unparalleled. According to Parag, they can try different players, but replacing Samson will be a huge task. The former skipper in November 2025 was traded to Chennai Super Kings, while Ravindra Jadeja went in the opposite direction. Parag hails Samson’s impact "We can only try to look for players with the same skills [like Samson] and someone who can fill the hole left by him in the batting order," Parag said in Jaipur. "Just like you cannot replace Virat Kohli or Rohit Sharma in any XI, Samson is irreplaceable. ALSO READ | Meet Indians to score most runs in each of last 5 T20 World Cups ft Virat Kohli "But will we plan something new? That's what we've been discussing in the build-up. If you see last season, we lost five or six close games; in fact, a couple of games were last-ball defeats. This season, if those few games go in our favour, then we won't be asked about our issues any longer. ALSO READ | From Chris Gayle to Brendon McCullum, 5 batters to score fastest T20 World Cup hundreds "In any 40-over game, there will be a few moments where you have to make the right decisions and that's what I'll focus on - like who will bat where, or what to do at the toss - and if we do that well, then this year will be a good one." In November, Samson was traded to CSK, with Jadeja going in the opposite direction. This meant Samson would end his long association with the Rajasthan Royals, where he had served for 12 seasons across two spells. In a productive career, he scored 4027 runs from 149 matches with a best of 119 and also scored two hundreds.

In November, Sanju Samson was traded to CSK, with Ravindra Jadeja going in the opposite direction. This meant Samson would end his long association with the Rajasthan Royals, where he had served for 12 seasons across two spells.

IPL 2026: Riyan Parag hails Sanju Samson, says 'he is irreplaceable like Kohli or Rohit'

World Champions India are all set to play Ireland in a T20I series in July ahead of the Men in Blue’s white-ball tour of England. The announcement came on Thursday (Mar 19) with Ireland's director of high performance also confirming Paul Stirling’s decision to step down as captain in T20Is after the side’s poor show in the recently concluded T20 World Cup in India.<h2>India to tour Ireland</h2>While no layout of the tour has been prepared, India will tour Ireland before the England series. The series was not part of the ICC Future Tour Program (FTP), meaning it will serve as a warm-up for the Men in Blue. This will be India’s first away series since winning the T20 World Cup on home soil on March 8 with a thumping win against New Zealand.<h2>Paul Stirling steps down</h2>Graham West, Ireland's director of high performance, confirmed in a press release announcing Stirling's departure that the series will go ahead. Stirling took over from Andy Balbirnie on a full-time basis in 2023 and has captained in 48 T20Is overall. But his tenure included two group-stage exits at T20 World Cups, and he was ruled out of the most recent edition midway through Ireland's second match after sustaining a knee injury while fielding.&nbsp;ALSO READ | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/photos/from-chris-gayle-to-brendon-mccullum-5-batters-to-score-fastest-t20-world-cup-hundreds-rilee-rossouw-ahmed-shehzad-1768553361691">From Chris Gayle to Brendon McCullum, 5 batters to score fastest T20 World Cup hundreds</a>&nbsp;"I still have a huge amount of ambition as a player and feel this decision will allow me to fully focus on being the best version of myself and making the strongest possible contribution on the field," Stirling said while announcing his decision to step down."This feels like the right time for the team to move into a new chapter, and I wish whoever takes on the T20 captaincy every success. They will have my full support, and I look forward to working alongside them as we continue to build and push for success on the international stage.”&nbsp;ALSO READ | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/photos/meet-indians-to-score-most-runs-in-each-of-last-5-t20-world-cups-ft-virat-kohli-kl-rahul-rohit-sharma-2026-t20-world-cup-1768479871185">Meet Indians to score most runs in each of last 5 T20 World Cups ft Virat Kohli</a>&nbsp;As per the ICC's Future Tours Programme, Ireland's men are due to host New Zealand (one Test), Bangladesh (three ODIs and three T20Is) and Afghanistan (one Test, three ODIs and three T20Is) next summer.

While no layout of the tour has been prepared, India will tour Ireland before the England series. The series was not part of the ICC Future Tour Program (FTP), meaning it will serve as a warm-up for the Men in Blue.

World Champions India are all set to play Ireland in a T20I series in July ahead of the Men in Blue’s white-ball tour of England. The announcement came on Thursday (Mar 19) with Ireland's director of high performance also confirming Paul Stirling’s decision to step down as captain in T20Is after the side’s poor show in the recently concluded T20 World Cup in India. India to tour Ireland While no layout of the tour has been prepared, India will tour Ireland before the England series. The series was not part of the ICC Future Tour Program (FTP), meaning it will serve as a warm-up for the Men in Blue. This will be India’s first away series since winning the T20 World Cup on home soil on March 8 with a thumping win against New Zealand. Paul Stirling steps down Graham West, Ireland's director of high performance, confirmed in a press release announcing Stirling's departure that the series will go ahead. Stirling took over from Andy Balbirnie on a full-time basis in 2023 and has captained in 48 T20Is overall. But his tenure included two group-stage exits at T20 World Cups, and he was ruled out of the most recent edition midway through Ireland's second match after sustaining a knee injury while fielding. ALSO READ | From Chris Gayle to Brendon McCullum, 5 batters to score fastest T20 World Cup hundreds "I still have a huge amount of ambition as a player and feel this decision will allow me to fully focus on being the best version of myself and making the strongest possible contribution on the field," Stirling said while announcing his decision to step down. "This feels like the right time for the team to move into a new chapter, and I wish whoever takes on the T20 captaincy every success. They will have my full support, and I look forward to working alongside them as we continue to build and push for success on the international stage.” ALSO READ | Meet Indians to score most runs in each of last 5 T20 World Cups ft Virat Kohli As per the ICC's Future Tours Programme, Ireland's men are due to host New Zealand (one Test), Bangladesh (three ODIs and three T20Is) and Afghanistan (one Test, three ODIs and three T20Is) next summer.

While no layout of the tour has been prepared, India will tour Ireland before the England series. The series was not part of the ICC Future Tour Program (FTP), meaning it will serve as a warm-up for the Men in Blue.

World Champions India to play T20I series against Ireland ahead of England tour

Former South Africa captain AB de Villiers has highlighted a key area for star batter Abhishek Sharma as the latest season of the Indian Premier League (IPL) gets closer. Abhishek, currently the number one batter in T20Is, will be a key factor for SunRisers Hyderabad as they look to end their 10-year wait for an IPL title. According to De Villiers, Abhishek needs to overcome challenges mentally and could help SRH deliver their first title in a decade.<h2>Abhishek’s mantra to success</h2>“He’s 25, not 20 anymore. So, this is definitely the phase where he has to start taking more responsibility. There will be media pressure and people asking him to become more consistent. We know he was a little inconsistent during the T20 World Cup, which was disappointing. He had a good finish in the final, but otherwise, it was a quiet tournament for him,” Kumble said.&nbsp;ALSO READ | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/photos/meet-indians-to-score-most-runs-in-each-of-last-5-t20-world-cups-ft-virat-kohli-kl-rahul-rohit-sharma-2026-t20-world-cup-1768479871185">Meet Indians to score most runs in each of last 5 T20 World Cups ft Virat Kohli</a>&nbsp;“He was erratic at times. He had an unbelievable IPL 2025, scoring close to a 200 strike-rate and averaging in the 30s, which is good for an opening batter scoring over 400 runs in the tournament, but it could have been better. Once again, that word consistency comes to mind. It’s a personal challenge he will have to overcome mentally. Being the number one international T20I batter in the world comes with expectation, and that is the most dangerous word in cricket, when you feel like the whole world is closing in on you, and it’s up to him to fight those me,” the former India Test captain added.&nbsp;ALSO READ | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/photos/from-chris-gayle-to-brendon-mccullum-5-batters-to-score-fastest-t20-world-cup-hundreds-rilee-rossouw-ahmed-shehzad-1768553361691">From Chris Gayle to Brendon McCullum, 5 batters to score fastest T20 World Cup hundreds</a>&nbsp;Abhishek played a key role in India’s T20 World Cup success recently and scored an 18-ball fifty in the final. He had a poor run in the opening phase of the World Cup but eventually helped India win the World Cup, while Sanju Samson was another key addition to the squad.&nbsp;SRH will kickstart their IPL 2026 season against defending champions Royal Challengers Benglauru (RCB) on Saturday (Mar 28) at the M.Chinnaswamy Stadium in Bengaluru.

Abhishek Sharma, currently the number one batter in T20Is, will be a key factor for SunRisers Hyderabad as they look to end their 10-year wait for an IPL title. According to De Villiers, Abhishek needs to overcome challenges mentally and could help SRH deliver their first title in a decade.

Former South Africa captain AB de Villiers has highlighted a key area for star batter Abhishek Sharma as the latest season of the Indian Premier League (IPL) gets closer. Abhishek, currently the number one batter in T20Is, will be a key factor for SunRisers Hyderabad as they look to end their 10-year wait for an IPL title. According to De Villiers, Abhishek needs to overcome challenges mentally and could help SRH deliver their first title in a decade. Abhishek’s mantra to success “He’s 25, not 20 anymore. So, this is definitely the phase where he has to start taking more responsibility. There will be media pressure and people asking him to become more consistent. We know he was a little inconsistent during the T20 World Cup, which was disappointing. He had a good finish in the final, but otherwise, it was a quiet tournament for him,” Kumble said. ALSO READ | Meet Indians to score most runs in each of last 5 T20 World Cups ft Virat Kohli “He was erratic at times. He had an unbelievable IPL 2025, scoring close to a 200 strike-rate and averaging in the 30s, which is good for an opening batter scoring over 400 runs in the tournament, but it could have been better. Once again, that word consistency comes to mind. It’s a personal challenge he will have to overcome mentally. Being the number one international T20I batter in the world comes with expectation, and that is the most dangerous word in cricket, when you feel like the whole world is closing in on you, and it’s up to him to fight those me,” the former India Test captain added. ALSO READ | From Chris Gayle to Brendon McCullum, 5 batters to score fastest T20 World Cup hundreds Abhishek played a key role in India’s T20 World Cup success recently and scored an 18-ball fifty in the final. He had a poor run in the opening phase of the World Cup but eventually helped India win the World Cup, while Sanju Samson was another key addition to the squad. SRH will kickstart their IPL 2026 season against defending champions Royal Challengers Benglauru (RCB) on Saturday (Mar 28) at the M.Chinnaswamy Stadium in Bengaluru.

Abhishek Sharma, currently the number one batter in T20Is, will be a key factor for SunRisers Hyderabad as they look to end their 10-year wait for an IPL title. According to De Villiers, Abhishek needs to overcome challenges mentally and could help SRH deliver their first title in a decade.

IPL 2026: AB de Villiers highlights key factor for SRH star Abhishek Sharma, says 'he has to start...'

The Indian Premier League (IPL 2026) season is all set for a fresh start as ten franchises prepare to win the ultimate prize in the world’s premier T20 competition. Rajasthan Royals, 2008 champions, will be one of the favourites to win the title as they start their pre-season. However, unlike last season, the former champions won’t have the services of captain Sanju Samson, who was traded to Chennai Super Kings (CSK) last November.<h2>Du Plessis reckons RR will miss Samson</h2>Speaking on JioHotstar's 'Game Plan - Know Your Team', JioStar expert Faf du Plessis shared his thoughts on Rajasthan Royals losing Sanju Samson, who was the face of the franchise for the last decade. Samson has been instrumental in RR’s recent seasons as they also reached the final in IPL 2022 and were in the Playoffs in IPL 2024.&nbsp;ALSO READ | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/photos/meet-indians-to-score-most-runs-in-each-of-last-5-t20-world-cups-ft-virat-kohli-kl-rahul-rohit-sharma-2026-t20-world-cup-1768479871185">Meet Indians to score most runs in each of last 5 T20 World Cups ft Virat Kohli</a>&nbsp;"If I look at the IPL and the teams, the iconic teams we see around the league, all of them have one marquee Indian player in common, someone who has been the face of the franchise for a period of time, Rohit Sharma, MS Dhoni, Virat Kohli. And Sanju Samson, for me, was that guy at the Rajasthan Royals. Yes, he's of a newer generation, but he has become the face of that franchise. If I think of the Rajasthan Royals, I think Sanju Samson. So, the fact that they've lost that face, I think, is a massive thing for the fans, for the IPL, and for the tournament, because he's played such a big role there."&nbsp;ALSO READ | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/photos/from-chris-gayle-to-brendon-mccullum-5-batters-to-score-fastest-t20-world-cup-hundreds-rilee-rossouw-ahmed-shehzad-1768553361691">From Chris Gayle to Brendon McCullum, 5 batters to score fastest T20 World Cup hundreds</a>&nbsp;In November, Samson was traded to CSK with Ravindra Jadeja going in the opposite direction. This meant Samson would end his long association with the Rajasthan Royals, where he had served for 12 seasons across two spells. In a productive career, he scored 4027 runs from 49 matches.&nbsp;However, the upcoming season will see him don the colours of CSK, where he will be a key addition with MS Dhoni likely to announce his retirement.&nbsp;

In November, Sanju Samson was traded to CSK with Ravindra Jadeja going in the opposite direction. This meant Samson would end his long association with the Rajasthan Royals, where he had served for 12 seasons across two spells. In a productive career, he scored 4027 runs from 49 matches.

The Indian Premier League (IPL 2026) season is all set for a fresh start as ten franchises prepare to win the ultimate prize in the world’s premier T20 competition. Rajasthan Royals, 2008 champions, will be one of the favourites to win the title as they start their pre-season. However, unlike last season, the former champions won’t have the services of captain Sanju Samson, who was traded to Chennai Super Kings (CSK) last November. Du Plessis reckons RR will miss Samson Speaking on JioHotstar's 'Game Plan - Know Your Team', JioStar expert Faf du Plessis shared his thoughts on Rajasthan Royals losing Sanju Samson, who was the face of the franchise for the last decade. Samson has been instrumental in RR’s recent seasons as they also reached the final in IPL 2022 and were in the Playoffs in IPL 2024. ALSO READ | Meet Indians to score most runs in each of last 5 T20 World Cups ft Virat Kohli "If I look at the IPL and the teams, the iconic teams we see around the league, all of them have one marquee Indian player in common, someone who has been the face of the franchise for a period of time, Rohit Sharma, MS Dhoni, Virat Kohli. And Sanju Samson, for me, was that guy at the Rajasthan Royals. Yes, he's of a newer generation, but he has become the face of that franchise. If I think of the Rajasthan Royals, I think Sanju Samson. So, the fact that they've lost that face, I think, is a massive thing for the fans, for the IPL, and for the tournament, because he's played such a big role there." ALSO READ | From Chris Gayle to Brendon McCullum, 5 batters to score fastest T20 World Cup hundreds In November, Samson was traded to CSK with Ravindra Jadeja going in the opposite direction. This meant Samson would end his long association with the Rajasthan Royals, where he had served for 12 seasons across two spells. In a productive career, he scored 4027 runs from 49 matches. However, the upcoming season will see him don the colours of CSK, where he will be a key addition with MS Dhoni likely to announce his retirement.

In November, Sanju Samson was traded to CSK with Ravindra Jadeja going in the opposite direction. This meant Samson would end his long association with the Rajasthan Royals, where he had served for 12 seasons across two spells. In a productive career, he scored 4027 runs from 49 matches.

IPL 2026: Faf du Plessis reckons Sanju Samson's exit is a massive blow for Rajasthan Royals and fans

The uncertainty over Iran's participation in upcoming FIFA World Cup 2026 continues amid the ongoing conflict between US-Israel-Iran. on Wednesday (Mar 18), Iran's football federation chief Mehadi Taj, while receving the women footballers returning from Asian Cup in Australia, reaffirmed that the country will not boycott the quadrennial event. Taj, however, did say that Iran will 'boycott America' but did not elaborate what it meant. FIFA World Cup 2026 is scheduled to be played from Jun 11 to Jul 12 and is being co-hosted by USA, Canada, and Mexico. The ongoing conflict between Iran and US-Israel, however, has made it doubtful for the Middle Eastern country to participate in the FIFA tournament.<h2>Will Iran play in FIFA World Cup 2026?</h2>"The national team is holding a training camp in Turkey, and we will also play two friendly matches there," FFIRI (Iranian football federation) president Taj was quoted as saying by the Fars News ‌Agency as reported by several news outlets. "We will boycott America, but we will not boycott ​the World Cup."Also Read - <a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/iranian-women-s-team-players-including-those-who-were-granted-assylum-in-australia-return-home-1773898903204">Iranian women's football team players return hom after Austalian asylum episode</a>The statement comes after <a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/football-world-cup-2026-fifa-not-moving-iran-s-matches-outside-usa-and-expect-teams-to-as-announced-schedule-1773827419514">FIFA hinted at not giving importance to Iran's demand</a> of moving group stage matches outside USA for which the Middle Eastern country said it was 'negotiating with FIFA.'<h2>What next for Iran?</h2>Earlier, Iran was hinting at not attending the FIFA World Cup, citing the conflict which started with US and Israel launched joint strikes on Iran on Feb 28, killing the country's Supreme Leader Ayatollah Khamenie. Trump, meanwhile, replied back by saying he 'doesn't care' if Iran plays in the World Cup.FIFA chief Gianni Infantino, meanwhile, said that he had spoken to the US president and Trump had assured him of 'welcoming' Iran. The US, notably, had banned the Iran nationals from coming in to the country with an exception for FIFA World Cup 2026 and LA 28 athletes.

FIFA World Cup 2026 is scheduled to be played from Jun 11 to Jul 12 and is being co-hosted by USA, Canada, and Mexico. The ongoing conflict between Iran and US-Israel, however, has made it doubtful for the Middle Eastern country to participate in the FIFA tournament.

The uncertainty over Iran's participation in upcoming FIFA World Cup 2026 continues amid the ongoing conflict between US-Israel-Iran. on Wednesday (Mar 18), Iran's football federation chief Mehadi Taj, while receving the women footballers returning from Asian Cup in Australia, reaffirmed that the country will not boycott the quadrennial event. Taj, however, did say that Iran will 'boycott America' but did not elaborate what it meant. FIFA World Cup 2026 is scheduled to be played from Jun 11 to Jul 12 and is being co-hosted by USA, Canada, and Mexico. The ongoing conflict between Iran and US-Israel, however, has made it doubtful for the Middle Eastern country to participate in the FIFA tournament. Will Iran play in FIFA World Cup 2026? "The national team is holding a training camp in Turkey, and we will also play two friendly matches there," FFIRI (Iranian football federation) president Taj was quoted as saying by the Fars News ‌Agency as reported by several news outlets. "We will boycott America, but we will not boycott the World Cup." Also Read - Iranian women's football team players return hom after Austalian asylum episode The statement comes after FIFA hinted at not giving importance to Iran's demand of moving group stage matches outside USA for which the Middle Eastern country said it was 'negotiating with FIFA.' What next for Iran? Earlier, Iran was hinting at not attending the FIFA World Cup, citing the conflict which started with US and Israel launched joint strikes on Iran on Feb 28, killing the country's Supreme Leader Ayatollah Khamenie. Trump, meanwhile, replied back by saying he 'doesn't care' if Iran plays in the World Cup. FIFA chief Gianni Infantino, meanwhile, said that he had spoken to the US president and Trump had assured him of 'welcoming' Iran. The US, notably, had banned the Iran nationals from coming in to the country with an exception for FIFA World Cup 2026 and LA 28 athletes.

FIFA World Cup 2026 is scheduled to be played from Jun 11 to Jul 12 and is being co-hosted by USA, Canada, and Mexico. The ongoing conflict between Iran and US-Israel, however, has made it doubtful for the Middle Eastern country to participate in the FIFA tournament.

'We'll boycott America, but...': Iran clears stance on FIFA World Cup 2026 participation

The First Four have been decided and the March Madness 2026 is here. 64 NCCA Division 1 men's basketball teams will be fighting it out for the national championship in the final set to be played on April 6. A total of 63 games will be played to decide the ultimate winner among 64 teams, 16 each from East, West, Midwest, and South. Here's everything you need to know about March Madness 2026:<h2>When does March Madness 2026 start?</h2>March Madness 2026 starts with first round games scheduled on Thursday (Mar 19) - Friday (Mar 20). The second round follows shortly after on Saturday (Mar 21) - Sunday (Mar 22). After the first two rounds, 32 teams will advance to the Sweet 16 round.<h2>What is the deadline to fill March Madness 2026 bracket?</h2>The March Madness 2026 bracket can be filled on official NCAA wesbite by 9 am Pacific Daylight Time. All the match results are to filled in the bracket including the winner of the national championship game to complete the process.Also Read - <a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/defending-champion-rory-mcilroy-reveals-augusta-masters-champions-dinner-menu-elk-sliders-bacon-wrapped-dates-1989-bordeaux-wine-yellowfin-tuna-1773895003385">The Masters | Defending champ McIlroy includes 'deer' in Champions Dinner menu</a><h2>What after first two rounds?</h2>Four teams each from East, West, Midwest, and South enter Sweet 16 round which will be played on March 26-27. Eight teams advance to the next round, four each from every zone, in Elite Eight which is set to be played on March 28-29.After battling it out in Elite Eight, Final Four round or semifinals will be played on April 4 and the National Championship game is set for April 6.<h2>What are the First Round match-ups?</h2>A total of 32 games will be played in the First Round (Round of 64) of March Madness 2026. Below are all the First Round match-ups from March Madness 2026:Thursday, March 19 (Round of 64)(8) Ohio State vs. (9) TCU (4) Nebraska vs. (13) Troy (6) Louisville vs. (11) South Florida (5) Wisconsin vs. (12) High Point (1) Duke vs. (16) Siena (5) Vanderbilt vs. (12) McNeese (3) Michigan State vs. (14) North Dakota State (4) Arkansas vs. (13) Hawai'i (6) North Carolina vs. (11) VCU (1) Michigan vs. Howard (6) BYU vs. Texas (7) Saint Mary's vs. (10) Texas A&amp;M (3) Illinois vs. (14) Penn (8) Georgia vs. (9) Saint Louis (3) Gonzaga vs. (14) Kennesaw State (2) Houston vs. (15) IdahoFriday, March 20 (Round of 64)(7) Kentucky vs. (10) Santa Clara (5) Texas Tech vs. (12) Akron (1) Arizona vs. (16) Long Island University (3) Virginia vs. (14) Wright State (2) Iowa State vs. (15) Tennessee State (4) Alabama vs. (13) Hofstra (8) Villanova vs. (9) Utah State (6) Tennessee vs. (11) Miami (Ohio) (8) Clemson vs. (9) Iowa (5) St. John's vs. (12) UNI (7) UCLA vs. (10) UCF (2) Purdue vs. (15) Queens (1) Florida vs. (16) Prairie View A&amp;M (4) Kansas vs. (13) Cal Baptist (2) UConn vs. (15) Furman (7) Miami (Fla.) vs. (10) Missouri

March Madness 2026 starts with first round games scheduled on Thursday (Mar 19) - Friday (Mar 20). The second round follows shortly after on Saturday (Mar 21) - Sunday (Mar 22). After the first two rounds, 32 teams will advance to the Sweet 16 round.

The First Four have been decided and the March Madness 2026 is here. 64 NCCA Division 1 men's basketball teams will be fighting it out for the national championship in the final set to be played on April 6. A total of 63 games will be played to decide the ultimate winner among 64 teams, 16 each from East, West, Midwest, and South. Here's everything you need to know about March Madness 2026: When does March Madness 2026 start? March Madness 2026 starts with first round games scheduled on Thursday (Mar 19) - Friday (Mar 20). The second round follows shortly after on Saturday (Mar 21) - Sunday (Mar 22). After the first two rounds, 32 teams will advance to the Sweet 16 round. What is the deadline to fill March Madness 2026 bracket? The March Madness 2026 bracket can be filled on official NCAA wesbite by 9 am Pacific Daylight Time. All the match results are to filled in the bracket including the winner of the national championship game to complete the process. Also Read - The Masters | Defending champ McIlroy includes 'deer' in Champions Dinner menu What after first two rounds? Four teams each from East, West, Midwest, and South enter Sweet 16 round which will be played on March 26-27. Eight teams advance to the next round, four each from every zone, in Elite Eight which is set to be played on March 28-29. After battling it out in Elite Eight, Final Four round or semifinals will be played on April 4 and the National Championship game is set for April 6. What are the First Round match-ups? A total of 32 games will be played in the First Round (Round of 64) of March Madness 2026. Below are all the First Round match-ups from March Madness 2026: Thursday, March 19 (Round of 64) (8) Ohio State vs. (9) TCU (4) Nebraska vs. (13) Troy (6) Louisville vs. (11) South Florida (5) Wisconsin vs. (12) High Point (1) Duke vs. (16) Siena (5) Vanderbilt vs. (12) McNeese (3) Michigan State vs. (14) North Dakota State (4) Arkansas vs. (13) Hawai'i (6) North Carolina vs. (11) VCU (1) Michigan vs. Howard (6) BYU vs. Texas (7) Saint Mary's vs. (10) Texas A&M (3) Illinois vs. (14) Penn (8) Georgia vs. (9) Saint Louis (3) Gonzaga vs. (14) Kennesaw State (2) Houston vs. (15) Idaho Friday, March 20 (Round of 64) (7) Kentucky vs. (10) Santa Clara (5) Texas Tech vs. (12) Akron (1) Arizona vs. (16) Long Island University (3) Virginia vs. (14) Wright State (2) Iowa State vs. (15) Tennessee State (4) Alabama vs. (13) Hofstra (8) Villanova vs. (9) Utah State (6) Tennessee vs. (11) Miami (Ohio) (8) Clemson vs. (9) Iowa (5) St. John's vs. (12) UNI (7) UCLA vs. (10) UCF (2) Purdue vs. (15) Queens (1) Florida vs. (16) Prairie View A&M (4) Kansas vs. (13) Cal Baptist (2) UConn vs. (15) Furman (7) Miami (Fla.) vs. (10) Missouri

March Madness 2026 starts with first round games scheduled on Thursday (Mar 19) - Friday (Mar 20). The second round follows shortly after on Saturday (Mar 21) - Sunday (Mar 22). After the first two rounds, 32 teams will advance to the Sweet 16 round.

March Madness 2026 | Fill you brackets now - Check all teams, First Round match-ups, full schedule and more

The Iranian women's football team, who was embroiled in asylum drama over the past two weeks and a half, has returned home barring two members of the entourage. Seven members of the Iranian squad had applied for a asylum in Australia during the Asian Cup but five of them, including skipper Zahra Ghanbari, turned back on the decision. The women's team made its way back to Iran through a long route via Malaysia, Oman and then to Istanbul and Turkey’s land Gurbulak-Bazargan border to enter the home country. The members, who were branded 'wartime traitors' by national media not so long ago, will now have a welcome ceremony on Thursday (Mar 19).<h2>Iranian women's football team members go back on Australia asylum - A timeline</h2>The whole drama started when some of the members didn't sing the national athem ahead of their first match in the tournament. The players who did not sing the national anthem were declared 'wartime traitors' &nbsp;by the Iranian national media. The players did sing the anthem in the next matches but the narrative had been set by then.Also Watch - <a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/watch-messi-reaches-900-goal-milestone-breakdown-of-his-career-in-numbers-1773886740778">Messi reaches 900-goal mark but Inter Miami out of CONCACAF Champions Cup</a>After the incident, five of the Iranian players escaped the Gold Coast hotel to reach Australian embassy and apply for asylum, which they were granted after a little push from US President Donald Trump.Two more of the squad members including one staff applied for the asylum later on and were granted the request as well.Iran accused Australia of coercing athletes into asylum while activists accused Iran of thretaning the families of athletes over asylum decision.<h2>What next for the women's football team members?</h2>After the athletes were given asylum, Iran changed tone and called the players 'children of homeland', promising a welcome ceremony in Tehran.Iranian parliament speaker Mohammad Bagher Ghalibaf, in a post on X, said the players are "children of the homeland, and the people of Iran embrace them."Ghalibaf also said that the players "disappointed the enemies [of Iran] and did not surrender to deception and intimidation by anti-Iran elements," by deciding to comeback to home.Iran's football federation chief Mehadi Taj was present to welcome the women's team at the border and was quoted saying: "We have all gathered here to say well done and to express our appreciation. Although they are women, they showed manly courage and strength," as reported by the Guardian.

The whole drama started when some of the Iran players didn't sing the national athem ahead of their first match in the tournament. Out of 7 who were granted asylum in Australia, 5 decided to return home, leaving only two in island country.

The Iranian women's football team, who was embroiled in asylum drama over the past two weeks and a half, has returned home barring two members of the entourage. Seven members of the Iranian squad had applied for a asylum in Australia during the Asian Cup but five of them, including skipper Zahra Ghanbari, turned back on the decision. The women's team made its way back to Iran through a long route via Malaysia, Oman and then to Istanbul and Turkey’s land Gurbulak-Bazargan border to enter the home country. The members, who were branded 'wartime traitors' by national media not so long ago, will now have a welcome ceremony on Thursday (Mar 19). Iranian women's football team members go back on Australia asylum - A timeline The whole drama started when some of the members didn't sing the national athem ahead of their first match in the tournament. The players who did not sing the national anthem were declared 'wartime traitors' by the Iranian national media. The players did sing the anthem in the next matches but the narrative had been set by then. Also Watch - Messi reaches 900-goal mark but Inter Miami out of CONCACAF Champions Cup After the incident, five of the Iranian players escaped the Gold Coast hotel to reach Australian embassy and apply for asylum, which they were granted after a little push from US President Donald Trump. Two more of the squad members including one staff applied for the asylum later on and were granted the request as well. Iran accused Australia of coercing athletes into asylum while activists accused Iran of thretaning the families of athletes over asylum decision. What next for the women's football team members? After the athletes were given asylum, Iran changed tone and called the players 'children of homeland', promising a welcome ceremony in Tehran. Iranian parliament speaker Mohammad Bagher Ghalibaf, in a post on X, said the players are "children of the homeland, and the people of Iran embrace them." Ghalibaf also said that the players "disappointed the enemies [of Iran] and did not surrender to deception and intimidation by anti-Iran elements," by deciding to comeback to home. Iran's football federation chief Mehadi Taj was present to welcome the women's team at the border and was quoted saying: "We have all gathered here to say well done and to express our appreciation. Although they are women, they showed manly courage and strength," as reported by the Guardian.

The whole drama started when some of the Iran players didn't sing the national athem ahead of their first match in the tournament. Out of 7 who were granted asylum in Australia, 5 decided to return home, leaving only two in island country.

Iranian women's football team players, including those who were granted asylum in Australia, return home

The first golf major of the year, Augusta Masters, is less than a month away and defending champion Rory McIlroy is all set to host previous champions for a dinner. The major begins on April 9, but before that comes Champions' Dinner and McIlroy is decided to put deer in the menu. The decision from the Northen Irish golfer comes as a tribute to his 'eating choices' before last year's tournament. The menu also includes his favorite tuna recepie, a dish made by his mother Rosie, and the wine he drank after winning last year.<h2>Why McIlroy is serving deer in August Masters Champions' Dinnner?</h2>"In the buildup to the ­Masters last year, I was eating a lot of elk (North American animal)," McIlroy said as reported by the Guardian."I got this big shipment of elk and I was eating a lot of that. I didn’t want elk to be the main course because I didn’t know if ­everyone would like that. So I incorporated that into the ­appetisers," added the defending champion.<h2>What else is in Augusta Masters Champions' Dinner menu?</h2>Apart from the elk appetisers, there are lot of other things in the Champions' Dinner menu including Bordeaux 1989 and 1990 wines from Augusta's stock along with two more options."That is the wine I drank the night I won the Masters, so brings back some great memories,” McIlroy said about wine choices."I wanted to be really intentional with the wines. It’s something I’m really into and passionate about and started to collect wine over the past decade. To work with the sommeliers at the club and be able to choose these wines was a lot of fun."Also Watch: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/watch-messi-reaches-900-goal-milestone-breakdown-of-his-career-in-numbers-1773886740778">Messi reaches 900-goal mark but Inter Miami out of CONCACAF Champions Cup</a><h3>Below is the full menu of Augusta Masters Champions' Dinner</h3>Appetisers:Peach &amp; Ricotta Flatbread (Balsamic, Hot Honey, Basil) Bacon-Wrapped Dates (Goat Cheese, Almonds) - Courtsey Rosie McIlroy Rock Shrimp Tempura (Creamy Spicy Sauce) Grilled Elk Sliders (Caramelized Onion Jam, Roasted Garlic Aioli)First CourseYellowfin Tuna Carpaccio (Foie Gras, Toasted Baguette, Chives)Main Course (Choice of)Wagyu Filet Mignon or Seared Salmon (Traditional Irish Champ, Sautéed Brussels Sprouts Glazed Carrots with Brown Butter, Crispy Vidalia Onion Rings)DessertSticky Toffee Pudding (Vanilla Ice Cream &amp; Warm Toffee Sauce)Drinks2015 Salon "S", Brut, Le Mesnil-sur-Oger, Champagne&nbsp; 2022 Domaine Leflaive, Batard-Montrachet, Puligny-Montrachet, Burgundy 1990 Chateau Lafite Rothschild, Pauillac, Bordeaux 1989 Chateau d'Yquem, Sauternes, Bordeaux<h2>McIlroy reveals best restaurant in world</h2>Speaking on Yellowfin Tuna Carpaccio - his favourite Tuna recipe, McIlroy said: "One of our favourite restaurants right now is in New York, called Le Bernardin. Eric Ripert is the chef there and this is a dish from that restaurant. It’s a really simple dish, but every time we go to, that’s the one thing I have to have. “So that’s a fun one the club worked with me on. They went up to the restaurant and worked with the chefs, and made sure; they obviously wanted to get it right for the night, so that’s really cool.”

The menu also includes his favorite tuna recepie, a dish made by his mother Rosie, and the wine he drank after winning last year. The major begins on April 9, but before that comes Champions' Dinner and McIlroy is decided to put deer in the menu. 

The first golf major of the year, Augusta Masters, is less than a month away and defending champion Rory McIlroy is all set to host previous champions for a dinner. The major begins on April 9, but before that comes Champions' Dinner and McIlroy is decided to put deer in the menu. The decision from the Northen Irish golfer comes as a tribute to his 'eating choices' before last year's tournament. The menu also includes his favorite tuna recepie, a dish made by his mother Rosie, and the wine he drank after winning last year. Why McIlroy is serving deer in August Masters Champions' Dinnner? "In the buildup to the Masters last year, I was eating a lot of elk (North American animal)," McIlroy said as reported by the Guardian. "I got this big shipment of elk and I was eating a lot of that. I didn’t want elk to be the main course because I didn’t know if everyone would like that. So I incorporated that into the appetisers," added the defending champion. What else is in Augusta Masters Champions' Dinner menu? Apart from the elk appetisers, there are lot of other things in the Champions' Dinner menu including Bordeaux 1989 and 1990 wines from Augusta's stock along with two more options. "That is the wine I drank the night I won the Masters, so brings back some great memories,” McIlroy said about wine choices. "I wanted to be really intentional with the wines. It’s something I’m really into and passionate about and started to collect wine over the past decade. To work with the sommeliers at the club and be able to choose these wines was a lot of fun." Also Watch: Messi reaches 900-goal mark but Inter Miami out of CONCACAF Champions Cup Below is the full menu of Augusta Masters Champions' Dinner Appetisers: Peach & Ricotta Flatbread (Balsamic, Hot Honey, Basil) Bacon-Wrapped Dates (Goat Cheese, Almonds) - Courtsey Rosie McIlroy Rock Shrimp Tempura (Creamy Spicy Sauce) Grilled Elk Sliders (Caramelized Onion Jam, Roasted Garlic Aioli) First Course Yellowfin Tuna Carpaccio (Foie Gras, Toasted Baguette, Chives) Main Course (Choice of) Wagyu Filet Mignon or Seared Salmon (Traditional Irish Champ, Sautéed Brussels Sprouts Glazed Carrots with Brown Butter, Crispy Vidalia Onion Rings) Dessert Sticky Toffee Pudding (Vanilla Ice Cream & Warm Toffee Sauce) Drinks 2015 Salon "S", Brut, Le Mesnil-sur-Oger, Champagne 2022 Domaine Leflaive, Batard-Montrachet, Puligny-Montrachet, Burgundy 1990 Chateau Lafite Rothschild, Pauillac, Bordeaux 1989 Chateau d'Yquem, Sauternes, Bordeaux McIlroy reveals best restaurant in world Speaking on Yellowfin Tuna Carpaccio - his favourite Tuna recipe, McIlroy said: "One of our favourite restaurants right now is in New York, called Le Bernardin. Eric Ripert is the chef there and this is a dish from that restaurant. It’s a really simple dish, but every time we go to, that’s the one thing I have to have. “So that’s a fun one the club worked with me on. They went up to the restaurant and worked with the chefs, and made sure; they obviously wanted to get it right for the night, so that’s really cool.”

The menu also includes his favorite tuna recepie, a dish made by his mother Rosie, and the wine he drank after winning last year. The major begins on April 9, but before that comes Champions' Dinner and McIlroy is decided to put deer in the menu.&nbsp;

Augusta Masters | Defending champ Rory McIlroy includes 'deer' in Champions Dinner menu

The QFs will be also be played in two legs in home and away format with first leg set to be played on April 7-8. The second leg will be played a week after on April 14-15. The eight teams are: PSG, Liverpool, Real Madrid, Bayern Munich, Barcelona, Atletico Madrid, Sporting, and Arsenal.

The QFs will be also be played in two legs in home and away format with first leg set to be played on April 7-8. The second leg will be played a week after on April 14-15. The eight teams are: PSG, Liverpool, Real Madrid, Bayern Munich, Barcelona, Atletico Madrid, Sporting, and Arsenal.

Champions League | Who's in and who's out? - Check all teams in quarter-finals and last 8 match-ups

Argentine footballer Lionel Messi has reached another milestone in his illustrious career - 900 goals. Messi reached the unbelievable mark on Wednesday (Mar 18) against Nashville FC while playing for Major League Soccer (MLS) club Inter Miami in CONCACAF Champions Cup last-16 second leg fixture. Messi is now only the second player in football history to reach 900-goal mark behind his Portuguese contemporary Cristiano Ronaldo who has 959 goals to his name. Despite Messi's historic goal, Inter Miami were crashed out of the tournament as Nashville advanced to the QFs on away goal basis after the two legs ended at 1-1 aggregate scoreline.<h2>How Messi scored 900th career goal?</h2>Messi's moment came in 7th minute of the game when he put a cross into Nashville's goalpost with utmost ease and gave his team a fighting chance to move into the QFs. Have a look at the goal here:

<blockquote class="twitter-tweet" data-media-max-width="560">¡900 veces Lionel Messi! ⚽ <a href="https://t.co/3oLNdqxLno">pic.twitter.com/3oLNdqxLno</a>&mdash; Concacaf Champions Cup (@TheChampions) <a href="https://twitter.com/TheChampions/status/2034408536764006798?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">March 18, 2026</a></blockquote> <script async src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script>

Also Read - <a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/suspected-corruption-senegal-government-demands-probe-into-caf-decision-to-award-morocco-afcon-title-1773850555102">Senegal govt demands probe into CAF decision to award Morocco AFCON title</a><h2>Messi's career in numbers</h2>The Argentine superstar is regarded as one of the best ever to play the sport and righfully so, having won Ballon d'Or a record eight times. In club career, he was associated with La Liga club Barcelona for most of his career before before to Paris Saint-Germain for a short time and finally arriving at Inter Miami. Below's a quick FAQ about Messi's career numbers:<h3>Against which team Messi has scored more goals?</h3>Messi has scored most goals - 25 - against La Liga side Sevilla, followed by Athletic Club (24), Atletico Madrid (23), Valencia (18), Real Madrid (17), and Levante (16) as recorded by OPTA.<h3>For which team Messi has scored most goals?</h3>Messi has scored 672 goals for Barcelona, 32 for PSG, 81 for Inter Miami, and 115 for his national side Argentina.<h3>Who else has scored 900 or more goals in career?</h3>Apart from Messi, Portugal's Cristiano Ronaldo has scored 959 goals - the most in the sport. Ronaldo reached the 900-goal milestone when he scored for Portugal against Croatia in September 2024.<h3>How has Messi scored most of his goals?</h3>According to OPTA, as reported by BBC Sport, Messi has scored 612 of his 900 goals from inside the box, 106 from outside the box, 112 via penalties, and 70 from free kicks.&nbsp;

Messi is now only the second player in football history to reach 900-goal mark behind his Portuguese contemporary Cristiano Ronaldo who has 959 goals to his name. Despite Messi's historic goal, Inter Miami were crashed out of the tournament as Nashville advanced to the QFs on away goal basis.

Argentine footballer Lionel Messi has reached another milestone in his illustrious career - 900 goals. Messi reached the unbelievable mark on Wednesday (Mar 18) against Nashville FC while playing for Major League Soccer (MLS) club Inter Miami in CONCACAF Champions Cup last-16 second leg fixture. Messi is now only the second player in football history to reach 900-goal mark behind his Portuguese contemporary Cristiano Ronaldo who has 959 goals to his name. Despite Messi's historic goal, Inter Miami were crashed out of the tournament as Nashville advanced to the QFs on away goal basis after the two legs ended at 1-1 aggregate scoreline. How Messi scored 900th career goal? Messi's moment came in 7th minute of the game when he put a cross into Nashville's goalpost with utmost ease and gave his team a fighting chance to move into the QFs. Have a look at the goal here:

Messi is now only the second player in football history to reach 900-goal mark behind his Portuguese contemporary Cristiano Ronaldo who has 959 goals to his name. Despite Messi's historic goal, Inter Miami were crashed out of the tournament as Nashville advanced to the QFs on away goal basis.

Messi reaches 900-goal mark but Inter Miami out of CONCACAF Champions Cup - WATCH

Barcelona hit Newcastle United for seven to reach the Champions League quarter-finals on Wednesday, while Liverpool overturned a first-leg deficit to beat Galatasaray in their last-16 tie and both Bayern Munich and Atletico Madrid advanced to the next round. Raphinha and Robert Lewandowski both scored twice as La Liga leaders Barcelona tore apart Newcastle at the Camp Nou, winning 7-2 in the second leg of their last-16 encounter to progress 8-3 on aggregate. A spectacular match saw Anthony Elanga twice score for Newcastle inside the opening half-hour to cancel out goals by Raphinha and Marc Bernal.Also Read - <a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/suspected-corruption-senegal-government-demands-probe-into-caf-decision-to-award-morocco-afcon-title-1773850555102">Senegal govt demands probe into CAF decision to award Morocco AFCON title</a>However, the Catalans went back in front when Lamine Yamal converted a penalty deep in first-half stoppage time to make it 3-2 on the night, and they never looked back.Fermin Lopez ran through for 4-2 early in the second half before Lewandowski added a quick-fire double either side of the hour mark, and Raphinha completed the scoring in the 72nd minute."The confidence that we got in the second half was good to see," said Barca coach Hansi Flick.It was a chastening defeat for Newcastle and just the third time since 1955 that an English team has conceded at least eight goals on aggregate in a European tie -- one of the other occasions was this week, when Chelsea lost 8-2 on aggregate to Paris Saint-Germain."When the game was effectively over we didn't react well to that, so it became a very difficult second half," said Newcastle coach Eddie Howe.It was also just the third time Barcelona have scored seven in a Champions League game, and Flick's side can now look forward to an all-Spanish quarter-final next month against Atletico.Diego Simeone's men lost 3-2 on the night to Tottenham Hotspur in London, but progressed 7-5 on aggregate thanks to their 5-2 victory last week.Randal Kolo Muani headed in on the half-hour to give Spurs the lead on the night and suggest a stunning comeback in the tie was possible.A superb Julian Alvarez strike just after half-time doused the home side's hopes, even if a fine Xavi Simons effort put Tottenham back in front.David Hancko headed in Atletico's second on the night, before Simons converted a last-minute penalty for his second of the game as Spurs rescued some pride by ending a run of eight matches without a win.<h2>Half-centuries for Kane, Salah</h2>Liverpool were too good for Galatasaray, overturning a 1-0 first-leg deficit against the Turkish side with a comprehensive 4-0 win at Anfield.Arne Slot's side went ahead on 25 minutes through a lovely first-time finish at a corner from Dominik Szoboszlai.Mohamed Salah then had a poor penalty saved in first-half stoppage time, but the Egyptian made up for that in style after the break.He laid on two goals in the space of three minutes, one for Hugo Ekitike and the other for Ryan Gravenberch.Salah then scored the fourth himself just after the hour, curling a superb effort into the far corner from the edge of the area from a Florian Wirtz lay-off.It was his 10th club goal this season was also his 50th in the Champions League, and it sealed a 4-1 aggregate victory which takes the Reds through to a quarter-final against PSG.That will be a repeat of a last-16 tie a year ago which PSG won on penalties -- the French club have won four knockout ties against English opponents since the start of 2025."We could (have) won 10-0, but we did a good job. We can be proud," said Ekitike.Bayern's progress against Atalanta was never in doubt after their 6-1 win in the first leg in Italy, and they followed that with a 4-1 success in Munich.Harry Kane opened the scoring with a retaken first-half penalty -- his initial effort had been saved -- and then added a brilliant second on 54 minutes.The brace took the Englishman to a half-century of Champions League goals, as he joined Salah and Thierry Henry on that overall mark -- Kane has done it in 66 games compared to 97 for Salah.Teenager Lennart Karl got Bayern's third and Luis Diaz the fourth, with Lazar Samardzic pulling one back as the Germans progress 10-2 on aggregate -- they now face Real Madrid in a heavyweight showdown."We don't fear anyone," Kane told DAZN when asked about the prospect of that tie.

Raphinha and Robert Lewandowski both scored twice as La Liga leaders Barcelona tore apart Newcastle at the Camp Nou, winning 7-2 in the second leg of their last-16 encounter to progress 8-3 on aggregate. 

Barcelona hit Newcastle United for seven to reach the Champions League quarter-finals on Wednesday, while Liverpool overturned a first-leg deficit to beat Galatasaray in their last-16 tie and both Bayern Munich and Atletico Madrid advanced to the next round. Raphinha and Robert Lewandowski both scored twice as La Liga leaders Barcelona tore apart Newcastle at the Camp Nou, winning 7-2 in the second leg of their last-16 encounter to progress 8-3 on aggregate. A spectacular match saw Anthony Elanga twice score for Newcastle inside the opening half-hour to cancel out goals by Raphinha and Marc Bernal. Also Read - Senegal govt demands probe into CAF decision to award Morocco AFCON title However, the Catalans went back in front when Lamine Yamal converted a penalty deep in first-half stoppage time to make it 3-2 on the night, and they never looked back. Fermin Lopez ran through for 4-2 early in the second half before Lewandowski added a quick-fire double either side of the hour mark, and Raphinha completed the scoring in the 72nd minute. "The confidence that we got in the second half was good to see," said Barca coach Hansi Flick. It was a chastening defeat for Newcastle and just the third time since 1955 that an English team has conceded at least eight goals on aggregate in a European tie -- one of the other occasions was this week, when Chelsea lost 8-2 on aggregate to Paris Saint-Germain. "When the game was effectively over we didn't react well to that, so it became a very difficult second half," said Newcastle coach Eddie Howe. It was also just the third time Barcelona have scored seven in a Champions League game, and Flick's side can now look forward to an all-Spanish quarter-final next month against Atletico. Diego Simeone's men lost 3-2 on the night to Tottenham Hotspur in London, but progressed 7-5 on aggregate thanks to their 5-2 victory last week. Randal Kolo Muani headed in on the half-hour to give Spurs the lead on the night and suggest a stunning comeback in the tie was possible. A superb Julian Alvarez strike just after half-time doused the home side's hopes, even if a fine Xavi Simons effort put Tottenham back in front. David Hancko headed in Atletico's second on the night, before Simons converted a last-minute penalty for his second of the game as Spurs rescued some pride by ending a run of eight matches without a win. Half-centuries for Kane, Salah Liverpool were too good for Galatasaray, overturning a 1-0 first-leg deficit against the Turkish side with a comprehensive 4-0 win at Anfield. Arne Slot's side went ahead on 25 minutes through a lovely first-time finish at a corner from Dominik Szoboszlai. Mohamed Salah then had a poor penalty saved in first-half stoppage time, but the Egyptian made up for that in style after the break. He laid on two goals in the space of three minutes, one for Hugo Ekitike and the other for Ryan Gravenberch. Salah then scored the fourth himself just after the hour, curling a superb effort into the far corner from the edge of the area from a Florian Wirtz lay-off. It was his 10th club goal this season was also his 50th in the Champions League, and it sealed a 4-1 aggregate victory which takes the Reds through to a quarter-final against PSG. That will be a repeat of a last-16 tie a year ago which PSG won on penalties -- the French club have won four knockout ties against English opponents since the start of 2025. "We could (have) won 10-0, but we did a good job. We can be proud," said Ekitike. Bayern's progress against Atalanta was never in doubt after their 6-1 win in the first leg in Italy, and they followed that with a 4-1 success in Munich. Harry Kane opened the scoring with a retaken first-half penalty -- his initial effort had been saved -- and then added a brilliant second on 54 minutes. The brace took the Englishman to a half-century of Champions League goals, as he joined Salah and Thierry Henry on that overall mark -- Kane has done it in 66 games compared to 97 for Salah. Teenager Lennart Karl got Bayern's third and Luis Diaz the fourth, with Lazar Samardzic pulling one back as the Germans progress 10-2 on aggregate -- they now face Real Madrid in a heavyweight showdown. "We don't fear anyone," Kane told DAZN when asked about the prospect of that tie.

Raphinha and Robert Lewandowski both scored twice as La Liga leaders Barcelona tore apart Newcastle at the Camp Nou, winning 7-2 in the second leg of their last-16 encounter to progress 8-3 on aggregate.&nbsp;

Champions League R16 | Barcelona, Bayern, Atletico, and Liverpool enter QFs

Policymakers, strategic observers, and industry titans from the fields of defence, automobiles, technology, and business converged at the WION World Pulse Summit in the national capital on Wednesday (March 18). The summit, themed "Rhythm of the New World Order," served as a premier platform to discuss the evolving global landscape, emerging technologies, and the future of international business amidst shifting geopolitics.The event featured a high-powered lineup of speakers, including Nitin Gadkari, the Union Minister of Road Transport and Highways, and Pralhad Joshi, the Union Minister for New &amp; Renewable Energy. They were joined by Gajendra Singh Shekhawat, who serves as the Union Minister of Culture and Tourism, and ACM Rakesh Bhadauria (Retd.), the former Chief of the Air Staff, who shared profound insights on national security and strategic defence.<h2>Celebrating excellence: WION Icon Awards</h2>Beyond the strategic dialogues, WION recognised extraordinary achievers across various fields for their relentless dedication and impact on society.&nbsp;Ruskin Bond: WION Icon Award for Lifetime Achievement in LiteratureThe legendary 91-year-old author, known as the "Wordsworth of India," has spent seven decades capturing the soul of the Himalayas. With over 500 short stories and novels, Bond’s simple yet evocative prose has made him a household name, inspiring generations of readers to find beauty in nature and the ordinary.&nbsp;

Saina Nehwal: WION Icon Award in Sports A trailblazer in Indian badminton, Saina Nehwal is the first Indian shuttler to win an Olympic medal. With 24 international titles, including a Commonwealth Games gold, she has been instrumental in making badminton a premier sport in India and remains a symbol of resilience for young athletes.&nbsp;Krishna Ella: WION Icon Award for Contributions in Public Health As the co-founder of Bharat Biotech, Dr Krishna Ella played a pivotal role in India’s battle against COVID-19 by developing Covaxin. His leadership in vaccine research and focus on affordable healthcare have placed India on the global map as a biotechnology powerhouse.&nbsp;Alok Bansal: WION Icon Award for Contributions in the Financial Sector A visionary leader in the fintech space, Alok Bansal has been instrumental in democratising financial services in India. As a co-founder of Policybazaar, he has significantly contributed to increasing insurance penetration and financial literacy across the country.&nbsp;Babita Phogat: WION Icon Award in Sports A Commonwealth Games gold medallist, Babita Phogat, has been a fierce representative of Indian wrestling on the world stage. Her journey from a small village in Haryana to international podiums has become a powerful narrative of women’s empowerment in sports.&nbsp;Chirag Paswan: WION Icon Award in Politics Representing the new generation of Indian leadership, Chirag Paswan was recognised for his active role in shaping regional and national discourse. His focus on youth-centric policies and administrative accountability marks him as a key figure in the "New World Order."

Milind Soman: WION Icon Award for Fitness The "Ironman of India," Milind Soman, has redefined the standards of health and ageing. An actor and supermodel, Soman is best known for his marathon running and his commitment to promoting a barefoot running culture, proving that fitness is a lifelong journey regardless of age.&nbsp;

Anupam Kher: WION Icon Award in Entertainment A veteran of over 500 films, Anupam Kher is a global face of Indian cinema. From his breakthrough in Saaransh to his international acclaim in New Amsterdam, Kher has been a vocal advocate for the arts and a versatile performer who continues to push the boundaries of storytelling.

WION recognised extraordinary achievers across various fields for their relentless dedication and impact on society.

Policymakers, strategic observers, and industry titans from the fields of defence, automobiles, technology, and business converged at the WION World Pulse Summit in the national capital on Wednesday (March 18). The summit, themed "Rhythm of the New World Order," served as a premier platform to discuss the evolving global landscape, emerging technologies, and the future of international business amidst shifting geopolitics. The event featured a high-powered lineup of speakers, including Nitin Gadkari, the Union Minister of Road Transport and Highways, and Pralhad Joshi, the Union Minister for New & Renewable Energy. They were joined by Gajendra Singh Shekhawat, who serves as the Union Minister of Culture and Tourism, and ACM Rakesh Bhadauria (Retd.), the former Chief of the Air Staff, who shared profound insights on national security and strategic defence. Celebrating excellence: WION Icon Awards Beyond the strategic dialogues, WION recognised extraordinary achievers across various fields for their relentless dedication and impact on society. Ruskin Bond: WION Icon Award for Lifetime Achievement in Literature The legendary 91-year-old author, known as the "Wordsworth of India," has spent seven decades capturing the soul of the Himalayas. With over 500 short stories and novels, Bond’s simple yet evocative prose has made him a household name, inspiring generations of readers to find beauty in nature and the ordinary.

WION recognised extraordinary achievers across various fields for their relentless dedication and impact on society.

WION World Pulse: From Ruskin Bond to Saina Nehwal, icons of excellence honoured; check full list

AFCON 2026 winners, Senegal, have called for an ‘independent international investigation’ into corruption charges following CAF’s decision to strip them of the coveted title and award it to Morocco. It all began after several Senegalese players walked off the pitch during the high-octane final in Rabat in protest of Morocco being awarded a penalty late in the second-half injury time. After team captain Sadio Mane urged the players to return to the field, Morocco missed the penalty, and Senegal’s Papa Gueye later scored in the extra time to hand his team a memorable win. However, on Tuesday (Mar 17), CAF sensationally reversed Senegal's win, citing regulations about leaving the field.&nbsp;"By calling into question a result achieved at the end of a match that was properly played and won in accordance with the rules of the game, the CAF seriously undermines its own credibility", government spokeswoman Marie Rose Khady Fatou Faye said in a statement. "Senegal unequivocally rejects this unjustified attempt at dispossession", she said, while calling for "an independent international investigation into suspected corruption within the CAF's governing bodies".&nbsp;Also read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/-senegral-forfeited-final-morocco-new-winner-of-africa-cup-of-nations-decalred-confederation-of-african-football-1773805121074">'Senegal forfeited final': Morocco new winner of Africa Cup of Nations, declares Confederation of African Football</a>&nbsp;CAF said that, having studied an appeal by Morocco, "the Senegal national team is declared to have forfeited the match" and the result was "officially recorded as 3-0" in favour of Morocco.&nbsp;In her statement, Faye called the matter "a grossly illegal and profoundly unjust decision".&nbsp;"Senegal will pursue all appropriate legal avenues, including before the competent international courts, to ensure that justice is served and that the primacy of sporting results is restored", she said.&nbsp;Pending a final arbitration ruling, the secretary-general of the Senegalese Football Federation asked CAF in a letter "to suspend the execution of this decision and to freeze all trophy return procedures in Morocco".&nbsp;The letter also informed CAF of the federation's "intention to appeal to the Court of Arbitration for Sport (CAS) within 48 hours".&nbsp;Faye, in the government's statement, additionally reiterated Senegal's "solidarity with the Senegalese citizens detained in Morocco", referring to 18 fans arrested for "hooliganism" during the match.&nbsp;The fans were sentenced in February to punishments ranging from three months to one year in jail and fines worth up to $545. They were accused of violence against security forces and of causing damage at the match, during which supporters tried to storm the pitch and threw projectiles.&nbsp;The statement said Senegal was "fully committed to monitoring this situation to ensure a positive outcome as soon as possible".&nbsp;(With inputs from AFP)

The Senegalese government has demanded an independent international probe into suspected corruption within CAF after being stripped of their 2026 AFCON title. As Morocco is awarded a 3-0 forfeit win, find out how Sadio Mane and the FSF are fighting back at the Court of Arbitration for Sport.

AFCON 2026 winners, Senegal, have called for an ‘independent international investigation’ into corruption charges following CAF’s decision to strip them of the coveted title and award it to Morocco. It all began after several Senegalese players walked off the pitch during the high-octane final in Rabat in protest of Morocco being awarded a penalty late in the second-half injury time. After team captain Sadio Mane urged the players to return to the field, Morocco missed the penalty, and Senegal’s Papa Gueye later scored in the extra time to hand his team a memorable win. However, on Tuesday (Mar 17), CAF sensationally reversed Senegal's win, citing regulations about leaving the field. "By calling into question a result achieved at the end of a match that was properly played and won in accordance with the rules of the game, the CAF seriously undermines its own credibility", government spokeswoman Marie Rose Khady Fatou Faye said in a statement. "Senegal unequivocally rejects this unjustified attempt at dispossession", she said, while calling for "an independent international investigation into suspected corruption within the CAF's governing bodies". Also read | 'Senegal forfeited final': Morocco new winner of Africa Cup of Nations, declares Confederation of African Football CAF said that, having studied an appeal by Morocco, "the Senegal national team is declared to have forfeited the match" and the result was "officially recorded as 3-0" in favour of Morocco. In her statement, Faye called the matter "a grossly illegal and profoundly unjust decision". "Senegal will pursue all appropriate legal avenues, including before the competent international courts, to ensure that justice is served and that the primacy of sporting results is restored", she said. Pending a final arbitration ruling, the secretary-general of the Senegalese Football Federation asked CAF in a letter "to suspend the execution of this decision and to freeze all trophy return procedures in Morocco". The letter also informed CAF of the federation's "intention to appeal to the Court of Arbitration for Sport (CAS) within 48 hours". Faye, in the government's statement, additionally reiterated Senegal's "solidarity with the Senegalese citizens detained in Morocco", referring to 18 fans arrested for "hooliganism" during the match. The fans were sentenced in February to punishments ranging from three months to one year in jail and fines worth up to $545. They were accused of violence against security forces and of causing damage at the match, during which supporters tried to storm the pitch and threw projectiles. The statement said Senegal was "fully committed to monitoring this situation to ensure a positive outcome as soon as possible". (With inputs from AFP)

The Senegalese government has demanded an independent international probe into suspected corruption within CAF after being stripped of their 2026 AFCON title. As Morocco is awarded a 3-0 forfeit win, find out how Sadio Mane and the FSF are fighting back at the Court of Arbitration for Sport.

'Suspected Corruption': Senegal govt demands probe into CAF decision to award Morocco AFCON title

England white-ball veteran Jos Buttler has dismissed retirement talks following a forgettable T20 World Cup 2026 in the sub-continent. Although he continues to be ambitious about representing England, with 18 months left on his contract (and an India ODI, T20I series scheduled later), Buttler rejected donning the captain’s hat once again. The right-hander managed only 87 runs from eight outings in the tournament, averaging fewer than 10 and an embarrassing strike-rate of just 116.&nbsp;England backed its former skipper throughout amid his sleek run with the bat. In his last outing against India in the second semifinal in Mumbai, Buttler scored 25 while chasing 254, with England narrowly losing the match by seven runs.&nbsp;&nbsp;Also read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/ipl-2026-ishan-kishan-to-captain-srh-in-pat-cummins-absence-abhishek-sharma-named-vice-captain-1773840405754">IPL 2026: Ishan Kishan to captain SRH in Cummins’ absence, Abhishek named his deputy</a> &nbsp;"I hope so," Buttler said of his England future on ‘For the Love of Cricket’ podcast. "I don't know. Obviously, I had a poor tournament, which is disappointing, but I've been playing some of the best cricket of my career in recent years, so hopefully, I can get back to playing my best.&nbsp; &nbsp;"I certainly have ambitions [to continue playing for England], but no longer being a captain, I'm not a selector and whatever, so what will be will be. Yeah, we will see," he continued. &nbsp;Once a batting giant and now a pale shadow of himself, Buttler wanted to rush away from cricket and take some time off, which he did after the T20 World Cup. Residing up in the mountains somewhere in France for a week helped him collect himself after a demotivating ICC event, which he believes could also be his last, as the ball is now in the selectors’ court.&nbsp; &nbsp;"I couldn't have been further away from cricket, which for me at the time was just perfect. It's exactly what I needed," Buttler said. "It was really refreshing - I really enjoyed it, a complete sort of release. And slowly but surely, I'd say at the start of this week, [I am] just starting to reflect a bit and have a few thoughts about what's important to me and my cricket, and why it probably didn't go quite as I would've liked,” he continued. &nbsp;Buttler will now return to India to link up with the Gujarat Titans (GT) squad for IPL 2026, with the 19th edition starting on March 28.&nbsp; &nbsp;Meanwhile, considering England’s next marquee white-ball assignment is against India in July this year, including five T20Is and three ODIs, it remains to be seen if selectors will bestow their trust in Buttler or not.&nbsp;

Buttler breaks his silence on retirement rumours following a disappointing T20 World Cup 2026. From his mental reset in the French mountains to joining the Gujarat Titans for IPL 2026, the veteran opener discusses his fight to reclaim his England spot ahead of the July series against India.

England white-ball veteran Jos Buttler has dismissed retirement talks following a forgettable T20 World Cup 2026 in the sub-continent. Although he continues to be ambitious about representing England, with 18 months left on his contract (and an India ODI, T20I series scheduled later), Buttler rejected donning the captain’s hat once again. The right-hander managed only 87 runs from eight outings in the tournament, averaging fewer than 10 and an embarrassing strike-rate of just 116. England backed its former skipper throughout amid his sleek run with the bat. In his last outing against India in the second semifinal in Mumbai, Buttler scored 25 while chasing 254, with England narrowly losing the match by seven runs. Also read | IPL 2026: Ishan Kishan to captain SRH in Cummins’ absence, Abhishek named his deputy "I hope so," Buttler said of his England future on ‘For the Love of Cricket’ podcast. "I don't know. Obviously, I had a poor tournament, which is disappointing, but I've been playing some of the best cricket of my career in recent years, so hopefully, I can get back to playing my best. "I certainly have ambitions [to continue playing for England], but no longer being a captain, I'm not a selector and whatever, so what will be will be. Yeah, we will see," he continued. Once a batting giant and now a pale shadow of himself, Buttler wanted to rush away from cricket and take some time off, which he did after the T20 World Cup. Residing up in the mountains somewhere in France for a week helped him collect himself after a demotivating ICC event, which he believes could also be his last, as the ball is now in the selectors’ court. "I couldn't have been further away from cricket, which for me at the time was just perfect. It's exactly what I needed," Buttler said. "It was really refreshing - I really enjoyed it, a complete sort of release. And slowly but surely, I'd say at the start of this week, [I am] just starting to reflect a bit and have a few thoughts about what's important to me and my cricket, and why it probably didn't go quite as I would've liked,” he continued. Buttler will now return to India to link up with the Gujarat Titans (GT) squad for IPL 2026, with the 19th edition starting on March 28. Meanwhile, considering England’s next marquee white-ball assignment is against India in July this year, including five T20Is and three ODIs, it remains to be seen if selectors will bestow their trust in Buttler or not.

Buttler breaks his silence on retirement rumours following a disappointing T20 World Cup 2026. From his mental reset in the French mountains to joining the Gujarat Titans for IPL 2026, the veteran opener discusses his fight to reclaim his England spot ahead of the July series against India.

Jos Buttler dismisses retirement talk; eyes India series in July despite T20 World Cup slump

SunRisers Hyderabad (SRH) has announced Ishan Kishan as their new standby captain for a few games early for IPL 2026 until regular skipper Pat Cummins attains full fitness and remains available for selection. Kishan will lead the star-studded SRH team in the tournament opener against the defending champions (RCB) at the M Chinnaswamy on March 28. The newly-crowned T20 World Cup winner, Kishan, will have the emerging superstar Abhishek Sharma as his deputy.&nbsp;Cummins would link up with the SRH squad on March 23, five days before the curtain-raiser, after Cricket Australia (CA) clears him to travel for the cash-rich league.&nbsp;Also read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/call-me-lalit-modi-cryptic-x-post-for-sunrisers-leeds-owner-kavya-maran-amid-abrar-ahmed-signing-backlash-the-hundred-auction-india-pakistan-1773837182002">'Call Me': Lalit Modi’s cryptic X post for SunRisers Leeds owner Kavya Maran amid Abrar signing backlash</a> &nbsp;Pat Cummins’ lumbar stress issue forced him to miss all international cricket since the away West Indies tour in July last summer, barring the Adelaide Test in the Ashes, including the remaining four Tests against England and Australia’s T20 World Cup 2026 campaign, where they failed to advance to the second round. Although there is no expected date for Cummins' return to the playing XI, his absence, however, has led to an incidental instance of all 10 IPL teams having Indian captains for the first time in 19 years.<h3>Indian stars to lead SRH</h3>For the first time since Cummins’ appointment as SRH’s captain in 2024, the two Indian youngsters will be at the helm of things at the franchise come this season. Bought for INR 11.25 crore ahead of the 2025 season, Kishan slammed his maiden IPL hundred for his new franchise in his first game, hitting an unbeaten 106 against Rajasthan Royals. He finished the season with just over 350 runs at a strike rate of 152.58.&nbsp; &nbsp;Meanwhile, his appointment as the standby captain has come on the back of a terrific run with the bat, both in domestic and international cricket. After leading Jharkhand to its maiden SMAT title last year, while also topping the runs chart, Kishan returned to the Indian squad for the T20 WCs dress-rehearsal five-match T20I series against New Zealand at home. &nbsp;Kishan later opened with SRH’s new vice-captain Abhishek Sharma in the T20 World Cup before Sanju Samson reclaimed his opener’s slot during the Super 8 stage and made the tournament about himself. Team India's record third T20 World Cup crown also saw Kishan promoted as a standby captain for his IPL franchise.

Huge leadership shift at SRH! Ishan Kishan is named the standby captain for IPL 2026 as Pat Cummins recovers from a back injury. With Abhishek Sharma as his deputy, the T20 World Cup hero leads the Orange Army against RCB on March 28.

SunRisers Hyderabad (SRH) has announced Ishan Kishan as their new standby captain for a few games early for IPL 2026 until regular skipper Pat Cummins attains full fitness and remains available for selection. Kishan will lead the star-studded SRH team in the tournament opener against the defending champions (RCB) at the M Chinnaswamy on March 28. The newly-crowned T20 World Cup winner, Kishan, will have the emerging superstar Abhishek Sharma as his deputy. Cummins would link up with the SRH squad on March 23, five days before the curtain-raiser, after Cricket Australia (CA) clears him to travel for the cash-rich league. Also read | 'Call Me': Lalit Modi’s cryptic X post for SunRisers Leeds owner Kavya Maran amid Abrar signing backlash Pat Cummins’ lumbar stress issue forced him to miss all international cricket since the away West Indies tour in July last summer, barring the Adelaide Test in the Ashes, including the remaining four Tests against England and Australia’s T20 World Cup 2026 campaign, where they failed to advance to the second round. Although there is no expected date for Cummins' return to the playing XI, his absence, however, has led to an incidental instance of all 10 IPL teams having Indian captains for the first time in 19 years. Indian stars to lead SRH For the first time since Cummins’ appointment as SRH’s captain in 2024, the two Indian youngsters will be at the helm of things at the franchise come this season. Bought for INR 11.25 crore ahead of the 2025 season, Kishan slammed his maiden IPL hundred for his new franchise in his first game, hitting an unbeaten 106 against Rajasthan Royals. He finished the season with just over 350 runs at a strike rate of 152.58. Meanwhile, his appointment as the standby captain has come on the back of a terrific run with the bat, both in domestic and international cricket. After leading Jharkhand to its maiden SMAT title last year, while also topping the runs chart, Kishan returned to the Indian squad for the T20 WCs dress-rehearsal five-match T20I series against New Zealand at home. Kishan later opened with SRH’s new vice-captain Abhishek Sharma in the T20 World Cup before Sanju Samson reclaimed his opener’s slot during the Super 8 stage and made the tournament about himself. Team India's record third T20 World Cup crown also saw Kishan promoted as a standby captain for his IPL franchise.

Huge leadership shift at SRH! Ishan Kishan is named the standby captain for IPL 2026 as Pat Cummins recovers from a back injury. With Abhishek Sharma as his deputy, the T20 World Cup hero leads the Orange Army against RCB on March 28.

IPL 2026: Ishan Kishan to captain SRH in Cummins’ absence, Abhishek named his deputy

IPL founder Lalit Modi has sparked buzz over the ongoing controversy surrounding the signing of Pakistani off-spinner Abrar Ahmed by Kavya Maran’s SunRisers Leeds in The Hundred, who is also the owner of the IPL franchise SunRisers Hyderabad, by posting a cryptic message on his X handle. Taking to his social media, Modi indirectly, without naming anyone, asked the ‘concerned party’, Kavya’s The Hundred franchise here, to ‘call him’ up, as he knows a thing or two about managing optics and building empires.&nbsp;Lalit Modi has been making headlines ever since inaugurating the cash-rich league in 2008, for good, bad and ugly reasons. While he now stays abroad and has cut all ties with the IPL, Modi has often been vocal about the whereabouts relating to the Indian Premier League; in this case, where the SRH owner and the franchise’s parent company have come under scrutiny over Abrar’s signing, Modi decided to intervene.&nbsp; &nbsp;During the Hundred’s maiden auction, Kavya Maran, the CEO of Sun’s Group, which also owns the IPL franchise SRH, bought Pakistani spinner Abrar for £190,000 (approx. INR 2.34 crore), receiving massive backlash over this. The franchise’s X handle has not only been temporarily suspended over the matter, but has also caught Lalit Modi’s attention. &nbsp;&nbsp;Also read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/private-jets-on-standby-pcb-details-evacuation-plan-for-foreign-players-in-psl-2026-amid-pakistan-afghanistan-war-iran-israel-west-asia-conflict-1773761382319">‘Private jets on standby,’ PCB details evacuation plan for players in PSL 2026 amid PAK-AFG war</a> &nbsp;“Investing 2.34 crore on a Pakistani player when the fans are already on edge? I know a thing or two about managing optics and building empires. Call me,” Lalit Modi’s cryptic social media post read.

<blockquote class="twitter-tweet">Controversy over <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/players?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#players</a> has hit <a href="https://twitter.com/thehundred?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@thehundred</a> with the <a href="https://twitter.com/sunrisersleeds?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@sunrisersleeds</a> <a href="https://t.co/xBgnmwcgf4">pic.twitter.com/xBgnmwcgf4</a>&mdash; Lalit Kumar Modi (@LalitKModi) <a href="https://twitter.com/LalitKModi/status/2033608148154536243?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">March 16, 2026</a></blockquote> <script async src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script>

Meanwhile, following the 26/11 attacks on the Taj Hotel in Mumbai and considering the countless fallout on the diplomatic fronts afterwards, the BCCI has banned Pakistani players in the IPL despite them featuring in the maiden edition in 2008. Although Pakistan toured India for a short white-ball series in 2012/13, the two countries have also cut all bilateral ties since, only playing in the ICC and ACC events. &nbsp;Abrar’s signing, however, sparked quite an outrage back home, with cricket veteran Sunil Gavaskar tearing into the franchise’s decision to pick a Pakistani player. Gavaskar criticised this move by calling it an indirect way of funding Pakistan’s military, which drew sharp reaction across the cricket community. &nbsp;On the other hand, telecomasia.net reports that the sources close to the Pakistan Cricket Board (PCB) claim that Abrar is unfazed by such a backlash, whereas the franchise’s team coach Daniel Vettori also sounded content with the off-spinner’s signing.&nbsp; &nbsp;“The noise on Abrar’s signing is not unexpected, but he is not losing sleep over the uproar,” sources close to the Pakistan Cricket Board said. &nbsp;Meanwhile, Vettori remarked, “Very pleased to get him.”

Lalit Modi sends a cryptic warning to Kavya Maran after SunRisers Leeds’ controversial £190,000 signing of Pakistani spinner Abrar Ahmed. As Sunil Gavaskar slams the move and fans trigger a social media meltdown, Modi claims he knows a "thing or two" about managing optics.

IPL founder Lalit Modi has sparked buzz over the ongoing controversy surrounding the signing of Pakistani off-spinner Abrar Ahmed by Kavya Maran’s SunRisers Leeds in The Hundred, who is also the owner of the IPL franchise SunRisers Hyderabad, by posting a cryptic message on his X handle. Taking to his social media, Modi indirectly, without naming anyone, asked the ‘concerned party’, Kavya’s The Hundred franchise here, to ‘call him’ up, as he knows a thing or two about managing optics and building empires. Lalit Modi has been making headlines ever since inaugurating the cash-rich league in 2008, for good, bad and ugly reasons. While he now stays abroad and has cut all ties with the IPL, Modi has often been vocal about the whereabouts relating to the Indian Premier League; in this case, where the SRH owner and the franchise’s parent company have come under scrutiny over Abrar’s signing, Modi decided to intervene. During the Hundred’s maiden auction, Kavya Maran, the CEO of Sun’s Group, which also owns the IPL franchise SRH, bought Pakistani spinner Abrar for £190,000 (approx. INR 2.34 crore), receiving massive backlash over this. The franchise’s X handle has not only been temporarily suspended over the matter, but has also caught Lalit Modi’s attention. Also read | ‘Private jets on standby,’ PCB details evacuation plan for players in PSL 2026 amid PAK-AFG war “Investing 2.34 crore on a Pakistani player when the fans are already on edge? I know a thing or two about managing optics and building empires. Call me,” Lalit Modi’s cryptic social media post read.

Lalit Modi sends a cryptic warning to Kavya Maran after SunRisers Leeds’ controversial £190,000 signing of Pakistani spinner Abrar Ahmed. As Sunil Gavaskar slams the move and fans trigger a social media meltdown, Modi claims he knows a "thing or two" about managing optics.

'Call Me': Lalit Modi’s cryptic X post for SunRisers Leeds owner Kavya Maran amid Abrar signing backlash

A trailblazer in women’s sports in India, badminton hero Saina Nehwal received the WION Icon award at the World Pulse Summit in New Delhi on Wednesday (Mar 18). A 2012 Olympic bronze medalist, Saina is the first female badminton player from India and the second overall, after legendary Prakash Padukone, to attain the number one ranking (in 2015). From being the only Indian to have won at least one medal in every BWF major individual event, to inspiring a whole generation of aspiring female athletes to take up badminton, Saina has done more for her country than what stats reveal.Speaking at the World Pulse summit, Saina credited her mother for her unparalleled success at the international level. Having taken up badminton at a time in India when she had no female role models in this discipline to look up to, it was Saina’s mother who pushed her to become an Olympian and a world champion. By her sheer grit, determination and training, Saina realised her and her mother’s dream. &nbsp;“All thanks to my mom,” Saina started by crediting her mother for where she stands today as the top female superstar in badminton in the country. “I used to love sports. We used to listen to what my mom used to say, as we wouldn’t say no to her,” Saina said about her mother’s love. Continuing how her mother’s words of motivation and manifestation led to her success, Saina said, “My mother used to tell me, ‘You’re going to be an Olympian and a world champion,’ and I didn’t believe her.’<h3>‘I had no trainer’</h3>Saina’s path to the top wasn’t the easiest, as she details the struggles growing up. Unlike how revolutionised and professional today’s sports are, she didn’t have any of those facilities at her disposal.&nbsp;“I didn’t have a trainer or physio at that time, but all thanks to my mom and Gopi sir (Pullela Gopichand), I could come this far,” Saina said at the WION World Pulse Summit. “I didn’t have women role models to look up to, but used to idolise Prakash [Padukone] sir.” Talking about badminton’s rise in the country, since she emerged on the scene and ended the Olympic medal drought in the London Games in 2012, Saina said, “Badminton is the second-most followed sport in India (after cricket).”&nbsp; Concluding with her thoughts on badminton’s future in the country, Saina said, “I hope we target (hosting) the Olympic Games in 2036 in India, and that, should it happen, India should aim to lead the medals tally in this discipline.”&nbsp;&nbsp;WATCH VIDEO -

<blockquote class="twitter-tweet">Indian shuttler <a href="https://twitter.com/NSaina?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@NSaina</a> is the WION Icon (Sports)<a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/WIONWorldPulse?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#WIONWorldPulse</a> <a href="https://t.co/YAFxqvjfyd">pic.twitter.com/YAFxqvjfyd</a>&mdash; WION (@WIONews) <a href="https://twitter.com/WIONews/status/2034223260028829935?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">March 18, 2026</a></blockquote> <script async src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script>

At the 2026 World Pulse Summit, badminton legend Saina Nehwal received the WION Icon award and credits her mother for her historic journey to World No. 1. 

A trailblazer in women’s sports in India, badminton hero Saina Nehwal received the WION Icon award at the World Pulse Summit in New Delhi on Wednesday (Mar 18). A 2012 Olympic bronze medalist, Saina is the first female badminton player from India and the second overall, after legendary Prakash Padukone, to attain the number one ranking (in 2015). From being the only Indian to have won at least one medal in every BWF major individual event, to inspiring a whole generation of aspiring female athletes to take up badminton, Saina has done more for her country than what stats reveal. Speaking at the World Pulse summit, Saina credited her mother for her unparalleled success at the international level. Having taken up badminton at a time in India when she had no female role models in this discipline to look up to, it was Saina’s mother who pushed her to become an Olympian and a world champion. By her sheer grit, determination and training, Saina realised her and her mother’s dream. “All thanks to my mom,” Saina started by crediting her mother for where she stands today as the top female superstar in badminton in the country. “I used to love sports. We used to listen to what my mom used to say, as we wouldn’t say no to her,” Saina said about her mother’s love. Continuing how her mother’s words of motivation and manifestation led to her success, Saina said, “My mother used to tell me, ‘You’re going to be an Olympian and a world champion,’ and I didn’t believe her.’ ‘I had no trainer’ Saina’s path to the top wasn’t the easiest, as she details the struggles growing up. Unlike how revolutionised and professional today’s sports are, she didn’t have any of those facilities at her disposal. “I didn’t have a trainer or physio at that time, but all thanks to my mom and Gopi sir (Pullela Gopichand), I could come this far,” Saina said at the WION World Pulse Summit. “I didn’t have women role models to look up to, but used to idolise Prakash [Padukone] sir.” Talking about badminton’s rise in the country, since she emerged on the scene and ended the Olympic medal drought in the London Games in 2012, Saina said, “Badminton is the second-most followed sport in India (after cricket).” Concluding with her thoughts on badminton’s future in the country, Saina said, “I hope we target (hosting) the Olympic Games in 2036 in India, and that, should it happen, India should aim to lead the medals tally in this discipline.” WATCH VIDEO -

At the WION World Pulse Summit, badminton legend Saina Nehwal received the Icon award and credits her mother for her historic journey to World No. 1.&nbsp;

Saina Nehwal credits mom for unparalleled success as she receives icon award at WION World Pulse summit

FIFA, the apex body of football in the world, has appeared to have shot down Iran's request of moving Football World Cup 2026 matches outside the USA. This development comes as Iran said it is 'negotiating' with the world football body to <a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/iran-trying-to-pull-a-pakistan-in-fifa-world-cup-2026-middle-eastern-country-negotiating-to-move-matches-outside-usa-1773727139996">move matches outside the USA</a> amid ongoing conflict with US and Israel. The FIFA World Cup 2026 is being hosted jointly by USA, Canada, and Mexico from Jun 11 to Jul 19. Iran is in Group G and has three group-stage matches scheduled in th USA - two in Los Angeles and one in Seattle.<h2>FIFA says no to Iran's request of moving matches outside USA?</h2>Iran's football federation head Mehadi Taj had said via the social media handle of country's embassy in Mexico that 'it is negotiating' with FIFA to moves group stage matches outside USA. Iran's statement came after Trump had said that the Middle Eastern country is 'welcome to play' but should 'avoid coming to the USA for their own safety.'Also Read - <a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/football-world-cup-2026-to-be-sent-off-fifa-boss-infantino-on-players-covering-mouth-during-argument-in-tournament-1772513674075">Football World Cup 2026 | 'To be sent off': FIFA boss Infantino on players covering mouth during argument in tournament</a>Mehadi had cited Trump's comment in his post on X while informing about the negoatiations with FIFA which the apex sports body appears to have shot down,."FIFA is in regular contact with all participating member associations, including Iran, to discuss planning for the World Cup," said the world body as reported by BBC Sport. "FIFA is looking forward to all participating teams competing as per the match schedule announced on 6 December 2025."<h2>What next for Iran?</h2>Earlier, Iran was hinting at not attending the FIFA World Cup, citing the conflict which started with US and Israel launched joint strikes on Iran on Feb 28, killing the country's Supreme Leader Ayatollah Khamenie. Trump, meanwhile, replied back by saying he 'doesn't care' if Iran plays in the World Cup.FIFA chief Gianni Infantino, meanwhile, said that he had spoken to the US president and Trump had assured him of 'welcoming' Iran. The US, notably, had banned the Iran nationals from coming in to the country with an exception for FIFA World Cup 2026 and LA 28 athletes.

The FIFA World Cup 2026 is being hosted jointly by USA, Canada, and Mexico from Jun 11 to Jul 19. Iran is in Group G and has three group-stage matches scheduled in th USA - two in Los Angeles and one in Seattle.

FIFA, the apex body of football in the world, has appeared to have shot down Iran's request of moving Football World Cup 2026 matches outside the USA. This development comes as Iran said it is 'negotiating' with the world football body to move matches outside the USA amid ongoing conflict with US and Israel. The FIFA World Cup 2026 is being hosted jointly by USA, Canada, and Mexico from Jun 11 to Jul 19. Iran is in Group G and has three group-stage matches scheduled in th USA - two in Los Angeles and one in Seattle. FIFA says no to Iran's request of moving matches outside USA? Iran's football federation head Mehadi Taj had said via the social media handle of country's embassy in Mexico that 'it is negotiating' with FIFA to moves group stage matches outside USA. Iran's statement came after Trump had said that the Middle Eastern country is 'welcome to play' but should 'avoid coming to the USA for their own safety.' Also Read - Football World Cup 2026 | 'To be sent off': FIFA boss Infantino on players covering mouth during argument in tournament Mehadi had cited Trump's comment in his post on X while informing about the negoatiations with FIFA which the apex sports body appears to have shot down,. "FIFA is in regular contact with all participating member associations, including Iran, to discuss planning for the World Cup," said the world body as reported by BBC Sport. "FIFA is looking forward to all participating teams competing as per the match schedule announced on 6 December 2025." What next for Iran? Earlier, Iran was hinting at not attending the FIFA World Cup, citing the conflict which started with US and Israel launched joint strikes on Iran on Feb 28, killing the country's Supreme Leader Ayatollah Khamenie. Trump, meanwhile, replied back by saying he 'doesn't care' if Iran plays in the World Cup. FIFA chief Gianni Infantino, meanwhile, said that he had spoken to the US president and Trump had assured him of 'welcoming' Iran. The US, notably, had banned the Iran nationals from coming in to the country with an exception for FIFA World Cup 2026 and LA 28 athletes.

The FIFA World Cup 2026 is being hosted jointly by USA, Canada, and Mexico from Jun 11 to Jul 19. Iran is in Group G and has three group-stage matches scheduled in th USA - two in Los Angeles and one in Seattle.

Football World Cup 2026 | FIFA not moving Iran's matches outside USA and expect teams to as announced schedule

Aston Martin's engine provider Honda will face the day of reckoning in the third race of ongoing F1 2026 season - Japaense Grand Prix at Suzuka circuit on Sunday (Mar 29). To be at home is often considerd an advantage but Honda's engine giving too many vibrations. The issue is so severe that both Aston Martin drivers, Fernando Alonso and Lance Stroll, have not been able to complete any of the two races - Australian Grand Prix in Week 1 (Mar 8) and Chinese Grand Prix in Week 2 (Mar 15). Alonso, a two-time world champ, describe vibrations so serious that 'he struggled to feel his hands in China.'<h2>Aston Martin drivers plaugued by Honda engine vibrations</h2>Alonso completed only 35 laps in China while his teammate Stroll only raced for 10. After the race, Alonso described the ordeal, "On ⁠lap 20 to 35 I was struggling a bit to feel my hands and my feet," he said as reported by the Guardian. "We were one lap behind, we were last, and there was probably no point to keep going."Also Read - <a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/-tournaments-not-protecting-us-sabalenka-not-going-to-dubai-open-in-future-after-director-s-ridiculous-comments-1773813410404">'Tournaments not protecting us': Sabalenka not going to Dubai Open in future after director's 'ridiculous' comments</a>With the next race being less than 10 days away, Lance Stroll was dismissive of any improvement barring some magic. "Unless they can find ⁠some magic in the next 10 days, pray. Pray for me," Stroll said.During the race, Alonso was seen doing something rare in modern F1, taking his hands off wheel - a more common sight in long races like Le Mans 24."It was difficult, we found more vibrations than any other session of the weekend," Alonso said about the move. "Physically, I could not continue much longer. It was not a nice feeling."<h2>What next for Aston Martin in the season?</h2>The upcoming Japanese Grand Prix is going to be the last for the next five weeks after the race with cancellations of Saudi and Bahrain Grand Prix. Both the races in the Middle East have been called off because of the ongoing US-Israel-Iran war, which has left the entire Gulf region volatile.After Japan, the F1 would resume on May 4 in Miami, USA and Aston Martin would be hoping to at least finish the race by then if not nothing else.

Both Aston Martin drivers, Fernando Alonso and Lance Stroll, have not been able to complete any of the two races - Australian Grand Prix and Chinese Grand Prix. Alonso, a two-time world champ, describe Honda engine vibrations so serious that 'he struggled to feel his hands in China.'

Aston Martin's engine provider Honda will face the day of reckoning in the third race of ongoing F1 2026 season - Japaense Grand Prix at Suzuka circuit on Sunday (Mar 29). To be at home is often considerd an advantage but Honda's engine giving too many vibrations. The issue is so severe that both Aston Martin drivers, Fernando Alonso and Lance Stroll, have not been able to complete any of the two races - Australian Grand Prix in Week 1 (Mar 8) and Chinese Grand Prix in Week 2 (Mar 15). Alonso, a two-time world champ, describe vibrations so serious that 'he struggled to feel his hands in China.' Aston Martin drivers plaugued by Honda engine vibrations Alonso completed only 35 laps in China while his teammate Stroll only raced for 10. After the race, Alonso described the ordeal, "On ⁠lap 20 to 35 I was struggling a bit to feel my hands and my feet," he said as reported by the Guardian. "We were one lap behind, we were last, and there was probably no point to keep going." Also Read - 'Tournaments not protecting us': Sabalenka not going to Dubai Open in future after director's 'ridiculous' comments With the next race being less than 10 days away, Lance Stroll was dismissive of any improvement barring some magic. "Unless they can find ⁠some magic in the next 10 days, pray. Pray for me," Stroll said. During the race, Alonso was seen doing something rare in modern F1, taking his hands off wheel - a more common sight in long races like Le Mans 24. "It was difficult, we found more vibrations than any other session of the weekend," Alonso said about the move. "Physically, I could not continue much longer. It was not a nice feeling." What next for Aston Martin in the season? The upcoming Japanese Grand Prix is going to be the last for the next five weeks after the race with cancellations of Saudi and Bahrain Grand Prix. Both the races in the Middle East have been called off because of the ongoing US-Israel-Iran war, which has left the entire Gulf region volatile. After Japan, the F1 would resume on May 4 in Miami, USA and Aston Martin would be hoping to at least finish the race by then if not nothing else.

Both Aston Martin drivers, Fernando Alonso and Lance Stroll, have not been able to complete any of the two races - Australian Grand Prix and Chinese Grand Prix. Alonso, a two-time world champ, describe Honda engine vibrations so serious that 'he struggled to feel his hands in China.'

F1 2026 | Chinese Grand Prix : Aston Martin's Alonso reveals 'struggling to feel hands and feet'

Ace women's tennis player Aryna Sabalenka says that she might never partake in Dubai Open after the tournament director criticised her and Iga Swaitek for withdrawing at the last moment. Sabalenka chose to withdraw from the event to keep heself fresh and the result was visible as she won her maiden Indian Wells tournament last week. The Dubai Open director, meanwhile, had called for stricter penalties as well as other form of punishement including docking of ranking points, something which Sabalenka found 'ridiculous.' Apart from Dubai Open, Sabalenka had also opted out from Doha Open, both WTA 1000 events, and played in February.<h2>Why Sabalenka won't take part in Dubai Open in future?</h2>Sabalenka is not happy with the comments of Dubai Open tournament director Salah Tahlak, who had said: "I think there should be a harsher punishment on the players, not just fines, they should be docked ranking points." Tahlak's comments after Sabalenka and Swiatek had withdrawn from the tournament at the last moment.Also Read - <a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/-statehood-trump-bats-for-venezuela-as-us-state-51-after-usa-loses-world-baseball-title-1773808195777">'STATEHOOD': Trump bats for Venezuela as US state #51 after USA loses World Baseball title</a>"I don’t think he showed himself in the best way possible. For me it’s actually so sad to see that the tournament directors and the tournaments are not protecting us as a player. They just care about their sellings, about their tournament and that’s it. His comment was ridiculous. I’m not sure if I ever want to go there after his comment. For me it’s too much," said Sabalenka durin the Miami Open pre-tournament press conference.<h2>Why Sabalenka withdrew from Dubai Open?</h2>The two-time Australian Open and US Open winner also talked about why she withdrew from the Dubai Open at the last moment and said: "Going into this season, we decided we were going to prioritise my health and make sure that we have these little gaps in the schedule where I can just reset, recharge, work and be better prepared for bigger tournaments. I feel like scheduling is going crazy and I feel like that’s why you see so many players are injured, always taped and not delivering the best quality matches because it’s almost impossible."

Sabalenka is not happy with the comments of Dubai Open tournament director Salah Tahlak, who had said: "I think there should be a harsher punishment on the players, not just fines, they should be docked ranking points." Tahlak's comments after Sabalenka had withdrawn from the tournament.

Ace women's tennis player Aryna Sabalenka says that she might never partake in Dubai Open after the tournament director criticised her and Iga Swaitek for withdrawing at the last moment. Sabalenka chose to withdraw from the event to keep heself fresh and the result was visible as she won her maiden Indian Wells tournament last week. The Dubai Open director, meanwhile, had called for stricter penalties as well as other form of punishement including docking of ranking points, something which Sabalenka found 'ridiculous.' Apart from Dubai Open, Sabalenka had also opted out from Doha Open, both WTA 1000 events, and played in February. Why Sabalenka won't take part in Dubai Open in future? Sabalenka is not happy with the comments of Dubai Open tournament director Salah Tahlak, who had said: "I think there should be a harsher punishment on the players, not just fines, they should be docked ranking points." Tahlak's comments after Sabalenka and Swiatek had withdrawn from the tournament at the last moment. Also Read - 'STATEHOOD': Trump bats for Venezuela as US state #51 after USA loses World Baseball title "I don’t think he showed himself in the best way possible. For me it’s actually so sad to see that the tournament directors and the tournaments are not protecting us as a player. They just care about their sellings, about their tournament and that’s it. His comment was ridiculous. I’m not sure if I ever want to go there after his comment. For me it’s too much," said Sabalenka durin the Miami Open pre-tournament press conference. Why Sabalenka withdrew from Dubai Open? The two-time Australian Open and US Open winner also talked about why she withdrew from the Dubai Open at the last moment and said: "Going into this season, we decided we were going to prioritise my health and make sure that we have these little gaps in the schedule where I can just reset, recharge, work and be better prepared for bigger tournaments. I feel like scheduling is going crazy and I feel like that’s why you see so many players are injured, always taped and not delivering the best quality matches because it’s almost impossible."

Sabalenka is not happy with the comments of Dubai Open tournament director Salah Tahlak, who had said: "I think there should be a harsher punishment on the players, not just fines, they should be docked ranking points." Tahlak's comments after Sabalenka had withdrawn from the tournament.

'Tournaments not protecting us': Sabalenka not going to Dubai Open in future after director's 'ridiculous' comments

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Sabalenka not going to Dubai Open in future after director's 'ridiculous' remark