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India, with six points in three matches, are already through Super 8 and have been seeded in Group X prior to the tournament. They face South Africa (Feb 22), Zimbabwe (Feb 26), and West Indies (Mar 1) in Super 8 at Ahmedabad, Chennai, and Kolkata, respectively.

<p>India, with six points in three matches, are already through Super 8 and have been seeded in Group X prior to the tournament. They face South Africa (Feb 22), Zimbabwe (Feb 26), and West Indies (Mar 1) in Super 8 at Ahmedabad, Chennai, and Kolkata, respectively.</p>

T20 World Cup 2026 | Another IND vs PAK possible? Which teams India face in Super 8 matches and when

<p>Benfica coach Jose Mourinho, with his comments, has added more to alleged racial abuse controversy against Real Madrid Vinicius Jr during Champions League play-off leg 1 on Tuesday (Feb 17). Real Madrid won the match at Estadio da Luz 1-0 with Vini Jr. scoring the goal in the 50th minute. Shortly after, the Real Madrid players took off after alleged racial abuse by Benfica's Gianluca Prestianni against Vini. Mourinho, meanwhile, said that Vinicus incited the crowd with his 'disrespectful celebration' after the goal.</p><h2>Mourinho tries to justify alleged racial abuse against Vinicius Jr</h2><p>"There is something wrong because it happens in every stadium. A stadium where Vinicius plays something happens, always," said Mourinho at after-match press conference.</p><p><strong>Also Read</strong> - <a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/champions-league-how-psg-s-subsitute-doue-flipped-script-on-monaco-after-folarin-balogun-s-historic-brace-1771380180428">Champions League: How PSG's substitute Doue flipped script on Monaco after Folarin Balogun's historic brace</a></p><p>"It should be the crazy moment of the game, an amazing goal. Unfortunately [he was] not just happy to score that astonishing goal. When you score a goal like that, you celebrate in a respectful way. I told [Vinicius], when you score a goal like that you just celebrate and walk back. When he was arguing about racism, I told him the biggest person in the history of this club [Eusebio] was black," added the former Chelsea and Real Madrid boss.</p><p>"Yes. I believe so," Mourinho responded when asked if thought Vinicius incited the crowd with his goal celebration. Both, Vinicius and Mourinho were seen talking to each other during the incident which halted the match for 10 minutes. Have a look at the video below:</p>

<blockquote class="twitter-tweet" data-media-max-width="560"><p lang="en" dir="ltr">🚨🛑 Vinicius Jr tells the referee and then José Mourinho that Gianluca Prestianni has racially abused him.<br><br>Vini said Prestianni racially insulted while covering his mouth with the shirt.<a href="https://twitter.com/JosePadi_?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@JosePadi_</a> 🎥 <a href="https://t.co/ffhgLgWB1P">pic.twitter.com/ffhgLgWB1P</a></p>&mdash; Fabrizio Romano (@FabrizioRomano) <a href="https://twitter.com/FabrizioRomano/status/2023873593504133199?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">February 17, 2026</a></blockquote> <script async src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script>

<h2><a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/champions-league-mbappe-reveals-what-benfica-s-prestianni-said-to-real-madrid-s-vinicius-jr-in-alleged-racial-abuse-1771377432674">Mbappe asks for ban on Prestianni by UEFA</a></h2><p>After the match, Real Madrid's Kylian Mbappe hit out at Prestianni for the racial abuse against Vinicius Jr. Calling for a permanent ban on him, Mbappe revealed: "The Benfica player wearing no.25 (Prestianni), I won't say his name because he doesn't deserve it.... he puts his shirt over his mouth to say, 'Vini is a monkey' five times. I heard it... this player does not deserve to play in the Champions League."</p><p>As per UEFA's Disciplinary Regulations, Article 14 on racism and other discriminatory conduct, player found guilty of racist behavior - such as insulting the human dignity of a person or group on grounds including race, skin color, ethnic origin, etc.- incurs a suspension lasting at least ten matches.</p><p>&nbsp;</p>

Real Madrid players took off after alleged racial abuse by Benfica's Gianluca Prestianni against Vini. Mourinho, meanwhile, said that Vinicus incited the crowd with his 'disrespectful celebration' after the goal.

Benfica coach Jose Mourinho, with his comments, has added more to alleged racial abuse controversy against Real Madrid Vinicius Jr during Champions League play-off leg 1 on Tuesday (Feb 17). Real Madrid won the match at Estadio da Luz 1-0 with Vini Jr. scoring the goal in the 50th minute. Shortly after, the Real Madrid players took off after alleged racial abuse by Benfica's Gianluca Prestianni against Vini. Mourinho, meanwhile, said that Vinicus incited the crowd with his 'disrespectful celebration' after the goal. Mourinho tries to justify alleged racial abuse against Vinicius Jr "There is something wrong because it happens in every stadium. A stadium where Vinicius plays something happens, always," said Mourinho at after-match press conference. Also Read - Champions League: How PSG's substitute Doue flipped script on Monaco after Folarin Balogun's historic brace "It should be the crazy moment of the game, an amazing goal. Unfortunately [he was] not just happy to score that astonishing goal. When you score a goal like that, you celebrate in a respectful way. I told [Vinicius], when you score a goal like that you just celebrate and walk back. When he was arguing about racism, I told him the biggest person in the history of this club [Eusebio] was black," added the former Chelsea and Real Madrid boss. "Yes. I believe so," Mourinho responded when asked if thought Vinicius incited the crowd with his goal celebration. Both, Vinicius and Mourinho were seen talking to each other during the incident which halted the match for 10 minutes. Have a look at the video below:

<p>Real Madrid players took off after alleged racial abuse by Benfica's Gianluca Prestianni against Vini. Mourinho, meanwhile, said that Vinicus incited the crowd with his 'disrespectful celebration' after the goal.</p>

Champions League | 'Where Vinicius plays something happens,' Benfica coach Mourinho on alleged racial abuse vs Real Madrid player

<p>India batting coach Sitanshu Kotak has asked the batter to be more adapt to team needs as per the situation while trying to maintain the attacking style. Kotak's comments came on the eve of India's last group-stage match in T20 World Cup 2026. India play Netherlands in their last Group A match on Wednesday (Feb 18). Kotak made the suggestion while addressing Abhishek Sharma's two back-to-back ducks in the tournament so far. While Kotak asserted that the team is not worried about Abhishek's twin failures, they would want him firing before the Super 8 fixtures with Netherlands match offering perfect opportunity to do so.</p><h2>Kotak wants Indian players to adapt to what team needs</h2><p>"I think playing aggressive cricket is important. But I don't think plans change based on whether a player has failed or not," Kotak said at the pre-match press conference. "If anything, plans will change according to situations. No matter whether somebody has scored runs for two innings or somebody hasn't, it's important to adapt to what the team needs.</p><p><strong>Also Read</strong> - <a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/big-bash-league-set-for-india-debut-in-chennai-cricket-australia-exploring-move-report-1771337677785">BBL set for India debut in Chennai? Cricket Australia exploring move: Report</a></p><p>"Like the Mumbai game where Surya had to stay there for a while, and he had to go at run-a-ball more or less for 30-35 balls - that's playing to the situation. Whether someone scores runs or not is not important, what team requires at a time and players trying to execute that is more important," the India batting coach explained with an example.</p><h2>India top Group A</h2><p>With six points after three wins in three matches, India are certain to top Group A if they lose against Netherlands or the match gets washed out. They have already qualified for the Super 8 where the Suryakumar Yadav-led team is placed in Group X along with South Africa, West Indies, and Zimbabwe. Each team will play once each against the rest of the teams in each group in Super 8 and top two teams from each group will advance to semis.</p>

Kotak made the suggestion while addressing Abhishek Sharma's two back-to-back ducks in the tournament so far. While Kotak asserted that the team is not worried about Abhishek's twin failures, they would want him firing before the Super 8.

India batting coach Sitanshu Kotak has asked the batter to be more adapt to team needs as per the situation while trying to maintain the attacking style. Kotak's comments came on the eve of India's last group-stage match in T20 World Cup 2026. India play Netherlands in their last Group A match on Wednesday (Feb 18). Kotak made the suggestion while addressing Abhishek Sharma's two back-to-back ducks in the tournament so far. While Kotak asserted that the team is not worried about Abhishek's twin failures, they would want him firing before the Super 8 fixtures with Netherlands match offering perfect opportunity to do so. Kotak wants Indian players to adapt to what team needs "I think playing aggressive cricket is important. But I don't think plans change based on whether a player has failed or not," Kotak said at the pre-match press conference. "If anything, plans will change according to situations. No matter whether somebody has scored runs for two innings or somebody hasn't, it's important to adapt to what the team needs. Also Read - BBL set for India debut in Chennai? Cricket Australia exploring move: Report "Like the Mumbai game where Surya had to stay there for a while, and he had to go at run-a-ball more or less for 30-35 balls - that's playing to the situation. Whether someone scores runs or not is not important, what team requires at a time and players trying to execute that is more important," the India batting coach explained with an example. India top Group A With six points after three wins in three matches, India are certain to top Group A if they lose against Netherlands or the match gets washed out. They have already qualified for the Super 8 where the Suryakumar Yadav-led team is placed in Group X along with South Africa, West Indies, and Zimbabwe. Each team will play once each against the rest of the teams in each group in Super 8 and top two teams from each group will advance to semis.

<p>Kotak made the suggestion while addressing Abhishek Sharma's two back-to-back ducks in the tournament so far. While Kotak asserted that the team is not worried about Abhishek's twin failures, they would want him firing before the Super 8.</p>

T20 World Cup 2026 | 'Important to adapt:' India batting coach Kotak not worried about Abhishek's twin ducks

<p>The Champions League defending champions Paris Saint-Germain (PSG) had their hearts in mouth on play-off leg 1 match against Monaco on Tuesday (Feb 17). PSG were 0-2 down, thanks to a historic brace by Folarin Balogun, but managed to turn around things and eventually won 3-2 in the away match. For PSG, substitute Desire Doue scored twice - in 29th and the match-winner in 67th minute while Achraf Hakimi's goal in the 41st minute ensure that his team doesn't go into the half time with a deficit. The PSG's win meant Balogun, who became the first American to score a brace in a Champions League, did so in a losing cause.</p><h2>PSG substitue flips script on Monaco</h2><p>Monaco, the Ligue 1 rivals of PSG, had a dream start when Balogun scored a goal in the first minute of the match. He took Monaco to 2-0 with another goal in the 18th minute and PSG were left in disbelief. PSG coach Luis Enrique then did something which turned out to be match-winning. Enrique's PSG called in Desire Doue in place of Ousmane Dembele in the 27th minute and voila - two minutes later the subsitute scored the first goal for PSG. With nearly four minutes of regulation time left in the first half, Hakimi joined the party and scored the equalizer for PSG, ensuring the scores stay level going into the half-time.</p><p><strong>Also Read</strong> - <a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/big-bash-league-set-for-india-debut-in-chennai-cricket-australia-exploring-move-report-1771337677785">BBL set for India debut in Chennai? Cricket Australia exploring move: Report</a></p><p>The second half started just opposite of first half for Monaco. In the 48th minute, Aleksandr Golovin was sent off the field after getting a red-card for a poor tackle on Vitinha. Against a 10-man Monaco, PSG took full advantage as Doue scored his second goal in the 67th minute take the team ahead. PSG didn't allow the lead the slip in the remaining time and ensured a stunning comeback win was theirs when the final whistle blew.</p><h2><a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/champions-league-mbappe-reveals-what-benfica-s-prestianni-said-to-real-madrid-s-vinicius-jr-in-alleged-racial-abuse-1771377432674">Racism allegations hit Real Madrid vs Benfica</a></h2><p>Real Madrid's Vinicius alleged that 20-year-old Benfica's Gianluca Prestianni used racial taunts and went to referee Francois Letexier who made the cross arm gesture to indicate racial abuse has happened in the match. Real, however, won the match 1-0, thanks to the 50th minute goal by Vinicius Jr.</p>

Against a 10-man Monaco, PSG took full advantage as Doue scored his second goal in the 67th minute take the team ahead. PSG didn't allow the lead the slip in the remaining time and ensured a stunning comeback win was theirs when the final whistle blew.

The Champions League defending champions Paris Saint-Germain (PSG) had their hearts in mouth on play-off leg 1 match against Monaco on Tuesday (Feb 17). PSG were 0-2 down, thanks to a historic brace by Folarin Balogun, but managed to turn around things and eventually won 3-2 in the away match. For PSG, substitute Desire Doue scored twice - in 29th and the match-winner in 67th minute while Achraf Hakimi's goal in the 41st minute ensure that his team doesn't go into the half time with a deficit. The PSG's win meant Balogun, who became the first American to score a brace in a Champions League, did so in a losing cause. PSG substitue flips script on Monaco Monaco, the Ligue 1 rivals of PSG, had a dream start when Balogun scored a goal in the first minute of the match. He took Monaco to 2-0 with another goal in the 18th minute and PSG were left in disbelief. PSG coach Luis Enrique then did something which turned out to be match-winning. Enrique's PSG called in Desire Doue in place of Ousmane Dembele in the 27th minute and voila - two minutes later the subsitute scored the first goal for PSG. With nearly four minutes of regulation time left in the first half, Hakimi joined the party and scored the equalizer for PSG, ensuring the scores stay level going into the half-time. Also Read - BBL set for India debut in Chennai? Cricket Australia exploring move: Report The second half started just opposite of first half for Monaco. In the 48th minute, Aleksandr Golovin was sent off the field after getting a red-card for a poor tackle on Vitinha. Against a 10-man Monaco, PSG took full advantage as Doue scored his second goal in the 67th minute take the team ahead. PSG didn't allow the lead the slip in the remaining time and ensured a stunning comeback win was theirs when the final whistle blew. Racism allegations hit Real Madrid vs Benfica Real Madrid's Vinicius alleged that 20-year-old Benfica's Gianluca Prestianni used racial taunts and went to referee Francois Letexier who made the cross arm gesture to indicate racial abuse has happened in the match. Real, however, won the match 1-0, thanks to the 50th minute goal by Vinicius Jr.

<p>Against a 10-man Monaco, PSG took full advantage as Doue scored his second goal in the 67th minute take the team ahead. PSG didn't allow the lead the slip in the remaining time and ensured a stunning comeback win was theirs when the final whistle blew.</p>

Champions League: How PSG's substitute Doue flipped script on Monaco after Folarin Balogun's historic brace

<p>The Real Madrid vs Benfica Champions League play-off leg 1 match turned ugly on Tuesday (Feb 17) at Estadio da Luz after Real's Vinicius Jr. was allegedly abuses with racial taunts by an opposition player. The Real Madrid players, along with Kylian Mbappe, showed solidarity with Vini and left the field as well. The match was halted for 10 minutes just after Vinicius scored the only goal of the match across both sides. Vinicius alleged that 20-year-old Benfica's Gianluca Prestianni used racial taunts and went to referee Francois Letexier who made the cross arm gesture to indicate racial abuse has happened in the match. Real, however, won the match 1-0, thanks to the 50th minute goal by Vinicius Jr.</p><h2>What did Prestianni say to Vinicus Jr.?</h2><p>After the match, Real Madrid's Kylian Mbappe hit out at Prestianni for the racial abuse against Vinicius Jr. Calling for a permanent ban on him, Mbappe revealed: "The Benfica player wearing no.25 (Prestianni), I won't say his name because he doesn't deserve it.... he puts his shirt over his mouth to say, 'Vini is a monkey' five times. I heard it... this player does not deserve to play in the Champions League."</p><p><strong>Also Read</strong> - <a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/champions-league-play-off-leg-1-results-today-real-madrid-beat-benfica-psg-beat-monaco-dortmund-beat-atalanta-galatasaray-stun-juventus-1771374795215">Champions League Play-off Leg 1: Real Madrid, PSG and Dortmund win, Galatasaray stun Juventus</a></p><p>Vinicius Jr. also called out the racism, a repeated thing against him, and wrote on Instagram: "Racists are, above all, cowards. They need to put their shirts in their mouths to show how weak they are. But they have the protection of others who, theoretically, have an obligation to punish them," read a part of the post. Have a look at the video of aftermath of incident:</p>

<h2>What is the punishment of racism in UEFA Champions League matches?</h2><p>As per UEFA's Disciplinary Regulations, Article 14 on racism and other discriminatory conduct, player found guilty of racist behavior - such as insulting the human dignity of a person or group on grounds including race, skin color, ethnic origin, etc.- incurs a suspension lasting at least ten matches.<br>&nbsp;</p><p>&nbsp;</p>

After the match, Real Madrid's Kylian Mbappe hit out at Prestianni for the racial abuse against Vinicius Jr. Calling for a permanent ban on him. Vinicius Jr. also called out the racism, a repeated thing against him, and wrote on Instagram: “Racists are, above all, cowards.”

The Real Madrid vs Benfica Champions League play-off leg 1 match turned ugly on Tuesday (Feb 17) at Estadio da Luz after Real's Vinicius Jr. was allegedly abuses with racial taunts by an opposition player. The Real Madrid players, along with Kylian Mbappe, showed solidarity with Vini and left the field as well. The match was halted for 10 minutes just after Vinicius scored the only goal of the match across both sides. Vinicius alleged that 20-year-old Benfica's Gianluca Prestianni used racial taunts and went to referee Francois Letexier who made the cross arm gesture to indicate racial abuse has happened in the match. Real, however, won the match 1-0, thanks to the 50th minute goal by Vinicius Jr. What did Prestianni say to Vinicus Jr.? After the match, Real Madrid's Kylian Mbappe hit out at Prestianni for the racial abuse against Vinicius Jr. Calling for a permanent ban on him, Mbappe revealed: "The Benfica player wearing no.25 (Prestianni), I won't say his name because he doesn't deserve it.... he puts his shirt over his mouth to say, 'Vini is a monkey' five times. I heard it... this player does not deserve to play in the Champions League." Also Read - Champions League Play-off Leg 1: Real Madrid, PSG and Dortmund win, Galatasaray stun Juventus Vinicius Jr. also called out the racism, a repeated thing against him, and wrote on Instagram: "Racists are, above all, cowards. They need to put their shirts in their mouths to show how weak they are. But they have the protection of others who, theoretically, have an obligation to punish them," read a part of the post. Have a look at the video of aftermath of incident:

<p>After the match, Real Madrid's Kylian Mbappe hit out at Prestianni for the racial abuse against Vinicius Jr. Calling for a permanent ban on him. Vinicius Jr. also called out the racism, a repeated thing against him, and wrote on Instagram: “Racists are, above all, cowards.”</p>

Champions League: Real Madrid players leave field after Vinicius Jr. faces alleged racial abuse by Benfica's Prestianni

<p>Vinicius Junior scored and then alleged he had been racially abused during Real Madrid's 1-0 win away to Benfica in the first leg of their Champions League play-off tie on Tuesday, while Paris Saint-Germain came from two goals down to beat Monaco 3-2. Elsewhere, Galatasaray stunned Juventus, beating the Italians 5-2 in Istanbul, and Borussia Dortmund seized the upper hand in their tie against Atalanta with a 2-0 first-leg victory.</p><p>Madrid headed to Lisbon to play Benfica less than three weeks after a dramatic 4-2 defeat away to the same opponents, when goalkeeper Anatoliy Trubin scored a stunning late goal to take the Portuguese side through to the knock-out stages and force Real to drop into the play-offs.</p><p><strong>Also Read</strong> - <a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/australia-knocked-out-of-t20-world-cup-2026-as-zimbabwe-qualify-from-group-b-1771329953409">Australia knocked out of T20 World Cup 2026 as Zimbabwe qualify from Group B</a></p><p>Benfica coach Jose Mourinho was hoping to again inspire his current side to victory against the club he coached from 2010 to 2013, but the night was instead overshadowed by the alleged racist abuse reported by Vinicius.</p><p>The Brazilian scored a superb goal early in the second half, arrowing his shot into the top corner. His moment of brilliance, though, quickly became controversial when he was booked for his dancing celebration in front of the crowd.</p><p>That booking sparked an exchange with Benfica's Gianluca Prestianni, who pulled his shirt over his mouth before appearing to say something to Vinicius.</p><p>The Real forward then ran over to referee Francois Letexier and, pointing at Prestianni, seemed to claim he had been called "mono", the Spanish word for monkey.</p><p>That led to a hold-up of several minutes before the game resumed, with Vinicius then being jeered by the home fans.</p><p>Mourinho was then sent off in the final stages of a spiky game for complaining too vociferously as he appealed for a second yellow card for Vinicius, meaning he will not be on the touchline for the second leg at the Bernabeu next week.</p><p>The long stoppage led to 12 minutes of added-on time, but Benfica could not use them to find an equaliser, and face an uphill struggle in the Spanish capital next week.</p><p>"(What happened) is something that nobody likes, you have to ask the Benfica player what he said," Real coach Alvaro Arbeloa told broadcaster Movistar.</p><p>"(Racism) is something we have to eradicate from the world of football and if the players don't fix it then this is very complicated."</p><h2>Galatasaray stun Juventus</h2><p>In Monaco, reigning European champions PSG recovered from a shambolic start as Desire Doue inspired a comeback from two goals down to beat the principality side.</p><p>United States star Folarin Balogun opened the scoring after just 55 seconds and found the net again on 18 minutes to put Monaco in control.</p><p>Vitinha then missed a chance for PSG to reduce the deficit when he had a penalty saved and last year's Ballon d'Or winner Ousmane Dembele came off injured before the half-hour mark, but his replacement Doue was the hero.</p><p>He pulled one back within two minutes of coming on, and then helped set up Achraf Hakimi for the equaliser just before the break.</p><p>Monaco then had Aleksandr Golovin sent off right at the start of the second half for a challenge on Vitinha before Doue got the winner on 67 minutes.</p><p>"He is an incredible player and a different player. I am very pleased for him because he deserved it," PSG coach Luis Enrique told broadcaster Canal Plus of Doue.</p><p>Earlier Galatasaray produced a rousing performance to beat Juventus 5-2 in a pulsating contest in Turkey, with Noa Lang scoring twice for the hosts.</p><p>Gabriel Sara put the home team in front but Teun Koopmeiners scored twice to put Juventus ahead at the break.</p><p>However, Lang made it 2-2 just after half-time and Davinson Sanchez put Galatasaray back in the lead before Juventus had Juan Cabal sent off.</p><p>Lang got his second and substitute Sacha Boey sealed the win to leave two-time champions Juventus facing an uphill struggle in next week's return.</p><p>Dortmund, beaten finalists in 2024, are on course to eliminate another Italian team after beating Atalanta 2-0 with Serhou Guirassy opening the scoring early on.</p><p>His 16th goal of the season was followed by a Maximilian Beier strike just before the break.</p>

Champions League Play-off Leg 1: Real Madrid beat Benfica 1-0, PSG beat Monaco 3-2, Borussia Dortmund beat Atalanta 2-0 while Galatasaray stun Juventus 5-2.

Vinicius Junior scored and then alleged he had been racially abused during Real Madrid's 1-0 win away to Benfica in the first leg of their Champions League play-off tie on Tuesday, while Paris Saint-Germain came from two goals down to beat Monaco 3-2. Elsewhere, Galatasaray stunned Juventus, beating the Italians 5-2 in Istanbul, and Borussia Dortmund seized the upper hand in their tie against Atalanta with a 2-0 first-leg victory. Madrid headed to Lisbon to play Benfica less than three weeks after a dramatic 4-2 defeat away to the same opponents, when goalkeeper Anatoliy Trubin scored a stunning late goal to take the Portuguese side through to the knock-out stages and force Real to drop into the play-offs. Also Read - Australia knocked out of T20 World Cup 2026 as Zimbabwe qualify from Group B Benfica coach Jose Mourinho was hoping to again inspire his current side to victory against the club he coached from 2010 to 2013, but the night was instead overshadowed by the alleged racist abuse reported by Vinicius. The Brazilian scored a superb goal early in the second half, arrowing his shot into the top corner. His moment of brilliance, though, quickly became controversial when he was booked for his dancing celebration in front of the crowd. That booking sparked an exchange with Benfica's Gianluca Prestianni, who pulled his shirt over his mouth before appearing to say something to Vinicius. The Real forward then ran over to referee Francois Letexier and, pointing at Prestianni, seemed to claim he had been called "mono", the Spanish word for monkey. That led to a hold-up of several minutes before the game resumed, with Vinicius then being jeered by the home fans. Mourinho was then sent off in the final stages of a spiky game for complaining too vociferously as he appealed for a second yellow card for Vinicius, meaning he will not be on the touchline for the second leg at the Bernabeu next week. The long stoppage led to 12 minutes of added-on time, but Benfica could not use them to find an equaliser, and face an uphill struggle in the Spanish capital next week. "(What happened) is something that nobody likes, you have to ask the Benfica player what he said," Real coach Alvaro Arbeloa told broadcaster Movistar. "(Racism) is something we have to eradicate from the world of football and if the players don't fix it then this is very complicated." Galatasaray stun Juventus In Monaco, reigning European champions PSG recovered from a shambolic start as Desire Doue inspired a comeback from two goals down to beat the principality side. United States star Folarin Balogun opened the scoring after just 55 seconds and found the net again on 18 minutes to put Monaco in control. Vitinha then missed a chance for PSG to reduce the deficit when he had a penalty saved and last year's Ballon d'Or winner Ousmane Dembele came off injured before the half-hour mark, but his replacement Doue was the hero. He pulled one back within two minutes of coming on, and then helped set up Achraf Hakimi for the equaliser just before the break. Monaco then had Aleksandr Golovin sent off right at the start of the second half for a challenge on Vitinha before Doue got the winner on 67 minutes. "He is an incredible player and a different player. I am very pleased for him because he deserved it," PSG coach Luis Enrique told broadcaster Canal Plus of Doue. Earlier Galatasaray produced a rousing performance to beat Juventus 5-2 in a pulsating contest in Turkey, with Noa Lang scoring twice for the hosts. Gabriel Sara put the home team in front but Teun Koopmeiners scored twice to put Juventus ahead at the break. However, Lang made it 2-2 just after half-time and Davinson Sanchez put Galatasaray back in the lead before Juventus had Juan Cabal sent off. Lang got his second and substitute Sacha Boey sealed the win to leave two-time champions Juventus facing an uphill struggle in next week's return. Dortmund, beaten finalists in 2024, are on course to eliminate another Italian team after beating Atalanta 2-0 with Serhou Guirassy opening the scoring early on. His 16th goal of the season was followed by a Maximilian Beier strike just before the break.

<p>Champions League Play-off Leg 1: Real Madrid beat Benfica 1-0, PSG beat Monaco 3-2, Borussia Dortmund beat Atalanta 2-0 while Galatasaray stun Juventus 5-2.</p>

Champions League Play-off Leg 1: Real Madrid, PSG and Dortmund win, Galatasaray stun Juventus

<p>Dipendra Singh Airee scored an unbeaten half-century to guide Nepal to a seven-wicket victory over Scotland in their final Group C match of the T20 World Cup 2026 at the Wankhede Stadium in Mumbai on Tuesday (Feb 17). Airee smashed 50 runs from just 23 balls, hitting four fours and three sixes. Kushal Bhurtel scored 43 off 35 balls as Nepal chased down the target of 171 with four balls to spare. Aasif Sheikh contributed 33 from 27 balls, while Gulsan Jha remained not out on 24 from 17 balls.</p><p>&nbsp;</p><p>For Scotland, Michael Leask was the only bowler to make an impact, claiming three wickets for 30 runs in four overs. The other bowlers failed to take a wicket.</p><p>&nbsp;</p><p><strong>Also Read - </strong><a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/big-bash-league-set-for-india-debut-in-chennai-cricket-australia-exploring-move-report-1771337677785"><strong>BBL set for India debut in Chennai? Cricket Australia exploring move: Report</strong></a></p><p>&nbsp;</p><p>Earlier, Nepal chose to bowl first and restricted Scotland to 170 for seven in 20 overs. Michael Jones was Scotland’s top scorer with 71 runs off 45 balls, including eight fours and three sixes. George Munsey scored 27 off 29 balls, while Brandon McMullen made 25 from 19 balls.</p><p>&nbsp;</p><p>For Nepal, Sompal Kami took three wickets for 25 runs and Nandan Yadav picked up two wickets for 34 runs. Rohit Paudel and Bhurtel took one wicket each.</p><p>&nbsp;</p><p><strong>Also Read - </strong><a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/ind-vs-ned-t20-world-cup-2026-match-36-check-live-streaming-details-head-to-head-pitch-weather-report-1771331770811"><strong>IND vs NED, T20 World Cup 2026 Match 36: Check live streaming details, head-to-head, pitch &amp; weather report</strong></a></p><p>&nbsp;</p><p>With this result, both teams ended their T20 World Cup campaign. Nepal finished fifth in Group C with one win and three losses from four matches. Scotland ended third with the same record but had a better Net Run Rate (NRR).</p>

With this result, both teams ended their T20 World Cup 2026 campaign. Nepal finished fifth in Group C with one win and three losses from four matches. Scotland ended third with the same record but had a better Net Run Rate (NRR).

Dipendra Singh Airee scored an unbeaten half-century to guide Nepal to a seven-wicket victory over Scotland in their final Group C match of the T20 World Cup 2026 at the Wankhede Stadium in Mumbai on Tuesday (Feb 17). Airee smashed 50 runs from just 23 balls, hitting four fours and three sixes. Kushal Bhurtel scored 43 off 35 balls as Nepal chased down the target of 171 with four balls to spare. Aasif Sheikh contributed 33 from 27 balls, while Gulsan Jha remained not out on 24 from 17 balls. For Scotland, Michael Leask was the only bowler to make an impact, claiming three wickets for 30 runs in four overs. The other bowlers failed to take a wicket. Also Read - BBL set for India debut in Chennai? Cricket Australia exploring move: Report Earlier, Nepal chose to bowl first and restricted Scotland to 170 for seven in 20 overs. Michael Jones was Scotland’s top scorer with 71 runs off 45 balls, including eight fours and three sixes. George Munsey scored 27 off 29 balls, while Brandon McMullen made 25 from 19 balls. For Nepal, Sompal Kami took three wickets for 25 runs and Nandan Yadav picked up two wickets for 34 runs. Rohit Paudel and Bhurtel took one wicket each. Also Read - IND vs NED, T20 World Cup 2026 Match 36: Check live streaming details, head-to-head, pitch & weather report With this result, both teams ended their T20 World Cup campaign. Nepal finished fifth in Group C with one win and three losses from four matches. Scotland ended third with the same record but had a better Net Run Rate (NRR).

<p>With this result, both teams ended their T20 World Cup 2026 campaign. Nepal finished fifth in Group C with one win and three losses from four matches. Scotland ended third with the same record but had a better Net Run Rate (NRR).</p>

T20 World Cup 2026: Nepal cruise past Scotland by seven wickets

T20I cricket is packed with boundaries and power-hitting, yet some bowlers have stood tall with their wicket-taking skills. Here’s a look at the top five bowlers with the most wickets in 20-over internationals.

<p>T20I cricket is packed with boundaries and power-hitting, yet some bowlers have stood tall with their wicket-taking skills. Here’s a look at the top five bowlers with the most wickets in 20-over internationals.</p>

Meet top 5 bowlers with most wickets in T20Is

<p>The Tamil Nadu Cricket Association (TNCA) has received a request to host the first match of the upcoming Big Bash League (BBL) season in Chennai and delegates from Cricket Australia (CA) recently met TNCA officials to talk about holding the opening match at Chepauk stadium. However, TNCA has said that the final decision will be taken by the Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI). A senior TNCA official said that the Australian group, which included two BBL representatives and one CA official, visited Chennai last week to discuss the idea.&nbsp;</p><p>&nbsp;</p><p>The TNCA made it clear that the match cannot go ahead without approval from the BCCI and for now, the decision rests with the Indian board.&nbsp;</p><p>&nbsp;</p><p>"We have heard their proposal and are fully aware of our jurisdiction. The TNCA has left the matter to the BCCI. We have made it clear to the Australian delegation that without BCCI approval, the plan cannot move forward," a TNCA official said. The ball is in the BCCI court," according to the reports from Cricbuzz.&nbsp;</p><p>&nbsp;</p><p><strong>Also Read - </strong><a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/los-angeles-mayor-calls-for-2028-olympic-games-la28-chief-organiser-casey-wasserman-to-step-down-over-epstein-files-1771334180848"><strong>Los Angeles mayor calls for LA28 chief organiser to step down over Epstein files</strong></a></p><p>&nbsp;</p><p>If the plan gets approval, the match could be played in December. So far, the BCCI has not given any clear response and is believed to be carefully reviewing the situation. &nbsp;</p><p>&nbsp;</p><p>According to a report by Australian outlet SEN, this move is part of a wider strategy to connect the Indian market closely with the BBL. This comes at a time when at least two of the league’s eight teams are expected to be put up for sale.&nbsp;</p><p>&nbsp;</p><p>"The bold ambition is part of a wider strategy to intertwine the lucrative Indian market with the BBL ahead of a near-certain sale for at least two of its eight franchises," a report in Australian media outlet SEN read.</p><p>&nbsp;</p><p>According to reports, the Perth Scorchers are likely to be one of the teams considered for the Chennai match. The time difference between Western Australia and India is only about two and a half hours, which makes scheduling easier.&nbsp;</p><p>&nbsp;</p><p>The Scorchers are also the defending champions, making them strong candidates to play in the opening match, although the BBL does not always start its season with the previous year’s winners.&nbsp;</p>

According to reports, the Perth Scorchers are likely to be one of the teams considered for the Chennai match. The time difference between Western Australia and India is only about two and a half hours, which makes scheduling easier. 

The Tamil Nadu Cricket Association (TNCA) has received a request to host the first match of the upcoming Big Bash League (BBL) season in Chennai and delegates from Cricket Australia (CA) recently met TNCA officials to talk about holding the opening match at Chepauk stadium. However, TNCA has said that the final decision will be taken by the Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI). A senior TNCA official said that the Australian group, which included two BBL representatives and one CA official, visited Chennai last week to discuss the idea. The TNCA made it clear that the match cannot go ahead without approval from the BCCI and for now, the decision rests with the Indian board. "We have heard their proposal and are fully aware of our jurisdiction. The TNCA has left the matter to the BCCI. We have made it clear to the Australian delegation that without BCCI approval, the plan cannot move forward," a TNCA official said. The ball is in the BCCI court," according to the reports from Cricbuzz. Also Read - Los Angeles mayor calls for LA28 chief organiser to step down over Epstein files If the plan gets approval, the match could be played in December. So far, the BCCI has not given any clear response and is believed to be carefully reviewing the situation. According to a report by Australian outlet SEN, this move is part of a wider strategy to connect the Indian market closely with the BBL. This comes at a time when at least two of the league’s eight teams are expected to be put up for sale. "The bold ambition is part of a wider strategy to intertwine the lucrative Indian market with the BBL ahead of a near-certain sale for at least two of its eight franchises," a report in Australian media outlet SEN read. According to reports, the Perth Scorchers are likely to be one of the teams considered for the Chennai match. The time difference between Western Australia and India is only about two and a half hours, which makes scheduling easier. The Scorchers are also the defending champions, making them strong candidates to play in the opening match, although the BBL does not always start its season with the previous year’s winners.

<p>According to reports, the Perth Scorchers are likely to be one of the teams considered for the Chennai match. The time difference between Western Australia and India is only about two and a half hours, which makes scheduling easier.&nbsp;</p>

Big Bash League set for India debut in Chennai? Cricket Australia exploring move: Report

<p>India will play their last Group A match of the ICC Men’s T20 World Cup 2026 on Wednesday (Feb 18) against the Netherlands in Ahmedabad. Led by Suryakumar Yadav, the team will look to keep their winning momentum going after victories over the USA, Namibia and Pakistan. The win against long-time rivals Pakistan was especially important, as it helped the defending champions to secure a place in the Super 8 stage. For the Netherlands, a narrow loss to Pakistan and defeat to the USA have almost ended their chances of moving to the next round. Scott Edwards’ team will hope to put up a strong performance against India and show that they are capable of competing regularly with top teams</p><h2>IND vs NED, T20 World Cup 2026 - Live streaming details</h2><h2>Where to watch IND vs NED, T20 World Cup 2026 live?</h2><p>The T20 World Cup 2026 match between India and the Netherlands will be shown live on the Star Sports Network in India.</p><p>&nbsp;</p><p><strong>Also Read - </strong><a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/vaibhav-sooryavanshi-marked-absent-for-not-appearing-in-class-10-exam-prioritises-ipl-2026-1771324077507"><strong>Sooryavanshi marked absent for not appearing in Class 10 exam, prioritises IPL</strong></a></p><h2><strong>Where to livestream IND vs NED, T20 World Cup 2026 match?</strong></h2><p>The fans can watch the live streaming of the T20 World Cup 2026 match between India and the Netherlands on the JioHotstar app and website in India.</p><h2>IND vs NED, T20 World Cup - Head-to-head</h2><p>India and the Netherlands have played against each other only once in T20 Internationals and that meeting came during the ICC Men’s T20 World Cup 2022, where India won the match by 56 runs. This upcoming match will be the second T20I between the two sides and it will be interesting to see how the Netherlands team performs against a strong Indian lineup.</p><h2>IND vs NED, T20 World Cup 2026 - Pitch Report</h2><p>The pitch at the Narendra Modi Stadium in Ahmedabad usually supports batters and often produces high-scoring games. Spinners may find limited assistance, but fast bowlers who stick to good lines and lengths can still make an impact. Teams batting first generally score between 175 and 190 runs.</p><p>&nbsp;</p><p><strong>Also Read - </strong><a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/mohsin-naqvi-is-a-good-guy-he-wants-to-help-pakistan-shoaib-akhtar-u-turn-on-pcb-chief-after-calling-him-illiterate-1771332054730"><strong>‘Naqvi is a good guy, he wants to help Pakistan,’ Akhtar’s U-turn on PCB chief after calling him ‘illiterate’</strong></a></p><h2>IND vs NED, T20 World Cup 2026 - Weather Report</h2><p>Ahmedabad is expected to have warm weather on match day, with daytime temperatures around 30°C and cooler conditions at night, dropping below 23°C. Rain is not expected, so a full match should be played.</p><h2>IND vs NED, T20 World Cup 2026 - Squads</h2><p><strong>India: </strong>Suryakumar Yadav (c), Abhishek Sharma, Tilak Varma, Sanju Samson, Shivam Dube, Ishan Kishan, Hardik Pandya, Arshdeep Singh, Jasprit Bumrah, Mohammad Siraj, Varun Chakaravarthy, Kuldeep Yadav, Axar Patel, Washington Sundar and Rinku Singh</p><p>&nbsp;</p><p><strong>Netherlands:</strong> Scott Edwards (c), Colin Ackermann, Noah Croes, Bas de Leede, Aryan Dutt, Fred Klaassen, Kyle Klein, Michael Levitt, Zach Lion-Cachet, Max O'Dowd, Logan van Beek, Timm van der Gugten, Roelof van der Merwe, Paul van Meekeren and Saqib Zulfiqar</p>

Ahead of the T20 World Cup match between India and the Netherlands, here’s all you need to know about both sides, including live streaming, broadcast details, squads and other key information.

India will play their last Group A match of the ICC Men’s T20 World Cup 2026 on Wednesday (Feb 18) against the Netherlands in Ahmedabad. Led by Suryakumar Yadav, the team will look to keep their winning momentum going after victories over the USA, Namibia and Pakistan. The win against long-time rivals Pakistan was especially important, as it helped the defending champions to secure a place in the Super 8 stage. For the Netherlands, a narrow loss to Pakistan and defeat to the USA have almost ended their chances of moving to the next round. Scott Edwards’ team will hope to put up a strong performance against India and show that they are capable of competing regularly with top teams IND vs NED, T20 World Cup 2026 - Live streaming details Where to watch IND vs NED, T20 World Cup 2026 live? The T20 World Cup 2026 match between India and the Netherlands will be shown live on the Star Sports Network in India. Also Read - Sooryavanshi marked absent for not appearing in Class 10 exam, prioritises IPL Where to livestream IND vs NED, T20 World Cup 2026 match? The fans can watch the live streaming of the T20 World Cup 2026 match between India and the Netherlands on the JioHotstar app and website in India. IND vs NED, T20 World Cup - Head-to-head India and the Netherlands have played against each other only once in T20 Internationals and that meeting came during the ICC Men’s T20 World Cup 2022, where India won the match by 56 runs. This upcoming match will be the second T20I between the two sides and it will be interesting to see how the Netherlands team performs against a strong Indian lineup. IND vs NED, T20 World Cup 2026 - Pitch Report The pitch at the Narendra Modi Stadium in Ahmedabad usually supports batters and often produces high-scoring games. Spinners may find limited assistance, but fast bowlers who stick to good lines and lengths can still make an impact. Teams batting first generally score between 175 and 190 runs. Also Read - ‘Naqvi is a good guy, he wants to help Pakistan,’ Akhtar’s U-turn on PCB chief after calling him ‘illiterate’ IND vs NED, T20 World Cup 2026 - Weather Report Ahmedabad is expected to have warm weather on match day, with daytime temperatures around 30°C and cooler conditions at night, dropping below 23°C. Rain is not expected, so a full match should be played. IND vs NED, T20 World Cup 2026 - Squads India: Suryakumar Yadav (c), Abhishek Sharma, Tilak Varma, Sanju Samson, Shivam Dube, Ishan Kishan, Hardik Pandya, Arshdeep Singh, Jasprit Bumrah, Mohammad Siraj, Varun Chakaravarthy, Kuldeep Yadav, Axar Patel, Washington Sundar and Rinku Singh Netherlands: Scott Edwards (c), Colin Ackermann, Noah Croes, Bas de Leede, Aryan Dutt, Fred Klaassen, Kyle Klein, Michael Levitt, Zach Lion-Cachet, Max O'Dowd, Logan van Beek, Timm van der Gugten, Roelof van der Merwe, Paul van Meekeren and Saqib Zulfiqar

<p>Ahead of the T20 World Cup match between India and the Netherlands, here’s all you need to know about both sides, including live streaming, broadcast details, squads and other key information.</p>

IND vs NED, T20 World Cup 2026 Match 36: Check live streaming details, head-to-head, pitch & weather report

<p>Los Angeles Mayor Karen Bass has asked for Casey Wasserman, whose name was mentioned in Epstein files, to step down from his position as the chief organiser of the 2028 Summer Olympic Games. In a chat with CNN, Bass said it was ‘unfortunate’ that the LA28 organisers were supporting Wasserman despite revelations of his flirtatious email exchanges with Jeffrey Epstein’s girlfriend and convicted sex trafficker Ghislaine Maxwell two decades ago.</p><p>&nbsp;</p><p>Not only this, but several Los Angeles city officials also called for Wasserman to step down earlier, only for the mayor to decline it, saying it was up to the LA28 board members to make a call on it. However, on Monday (Feb 17), Bass said, "My opinion is that he should step down. That's not the opinion of the board, adding that she needs to look at the leadership of LA28.</p><p>&nbsp;</p><p><strong>Also read | </strong><a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/-hoping-that-we-can-get-back-to-diversity-and-equality-coco-gauff-on-ice-action-in-us-1771308833944"><strong>'Hoping that we can get back to diversity and equality': Coco Gauff on ICE action in US</strong></a></p><p>&nbsp;</p><p>The LA28 Olympics executive committee gave Wasserman its backing on February 11.</p><p>&nbsp;</p><p>And Wasserman announced last week that he would sell the vast sports and entertainment agency that he founded because of the backlash over the email exchanges with Maxwell.</p><p>&nbsp;</p><p>The International Olympic Committee said on Tuesday it was up to the LA organisers to decide whether to keep Wasserman in his job.</p><p>&nbsp;</p><p>IOC spokesperson Mark Adams told journalists: "This is a matter for the board of LA28, still at this stage.</p><p>&nbsp;</p><p>"As you know, a law firm looked into it, and it is up to the board to draw their own conclusions. I understand there are many conversations happening at this moment."</p><p>&nbsp;</p><p>Wasserman, 51, has not been accused of any criminal wrongdoing in the Epstein scandal.</p><p>&nbsp;</p><p>He said in an apology last month that his exchange with Maxwell, who is serving a 20-year sentence for trafficking underage girls for Epstein, took place before her crimes came to light.</p><p>&nbsp;</p><p>The US Justice Department last month released the latest cache of so-called Epstein files -- more than three million documents, photos and videos related to its investigation into sex criminal Epstein, who died from what was determined to be suicide while in custody in 2019.</p><p>&nbsp;</p><p><i>(With inputs from AFP)</i></p>

LA Mayor Karen Bass urges LA28 chief Casey Wasserman to resign over Epstein file revelations, calling the board's decision to retain him "unfortunate."

Los Angeles Mayor Karen Bass has asked for Casey Wasserman, whose name was mentioned in Epstein files, to step down from his position as the chief organiser of the 2028 Summer Olympic Games. In a chat with CNN, Bass said it was ‘unfortunate’ that the LA28 organisers were supporting Wasserman despite revelations of his flirtatious email exchanges with Jeffrey Epstein’s girlfriend and convicted sex trafficker Ghislaine Maxwell two decades ago. Not only this, but several Los Angeles city officials also called for Wasserman to step down earlier, only for the mayor to decline it, saying it was up to the LA28 board members to make a call on it. However, on Monday (Feb 17), Bass said, "My opinion is that he should step down. That's not the opinion of the board, adding that she needs to look at the leadership of LA28. Also read | 'Hoping that we can get back to diversity and equality': Coco Gauff on ICE action in US The LA28 Olympics executive committee gave Wasserman its backing on February 11. And Wasserman announced last week that he would sell the vast sports and entertainment agency that he founded because of the backlash over the email exchanges with Maxwell. The International Olympic Committee said on Tuesday it was up to the LA organisers to decide whether to keep Wasserman in his job. IOC spokesperson Mark Adams told journalists: "This is a matter for the board of LA28, still at this stage. "As you know, a law firm looked into it, and it is up to the board to draw their own conclusions. I understand there are many conversations happening at this moment." Wasserman, 51, has not been accused of any criminal wrongdoing in the Epstein scandal. He said in an apology last month that his exchange with Maxwell, who is serving a 20-year sentence for trafficking underage girls for Epstein, took place before her crimes came to light. The US Justice Department last month released the latest cache of so-called Epstein files -- more than three million documents, photos and videos related to its investigation into sex criminal Epstein, who died from what was determined to be suicide while in custody in 2019. (With inputs from AFP)

<p>LA Mayor Karen Bass urges LA28 chief Casey Wasserman to resign over Epstein file revelations, calling the board's decision to retain him "unfortunate."</p>

Los Angeles mayor calls for LA28 chief organiser to step down over Epstein files

<p>Recognised as one of the most unique races on the global running calendar, the Dead Sea Land Marathon sawmore than 8,000 participants this year, including 32 runners from the UK, who made the dramatic descent to the lowest place on Earth for the unforgettable event. Now in its seventh edition, the marathon reached full capacity two months ahead of race day, reinforcing its status as a sought-after challenge for international endurance enthusiasts.</p><p>&nbsp;</p><p>What sets the race apart is its extraordinary course. For one day only, competitors are given access to areas typically off-limits to the public, including narrow gravel embankments spanning 6-8 metres wide that slice directly through the waters of the Dead Sea. Among the entrants was Yoel Levy, known as ‘The Jewish Fitness Coach’, who completed the marathon for the second time dressed as Batman in tribute to Ariel and Kfir Bibas.</p><p>&nbsp;</p><p><strong>Also Read: </strong><a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/-hoping-that-we-can-get-back-to-diversity-and-equality-coco-gauff-on-ice-action-in-us-1771308833944"><strong>'Hoping that we can get back to diversity and equality': Coco Gauff on ICE action in US</strong></a></p><p>&nbsp;</p><p>A seasoned international racer, Levy described the event as one of the standout experiences of his sporting year, citing both the dramatic landscape and the warm atmosphere created by fellow runners, organisers, and spectators. The event offers six race categories designed to suit a broad range of abilities, from a beginner-friendly 5km to a 50km ultramarathon. Participants could also choose the half marathon, full marathon or the popular 15km “Around Tamar” route. Beyond the competition itself, many runners took advantage of the Dead Sea’s famed natural therapies, including its mineral-rich mud baths.</p><p>&nbsp;</p><p><a href="https://www.wionews.com/videos/russia-embraces-crypto-to-evade-sanctions-1771308905591/embed"><strong>https://www.wionews.com/videos/russia-embraces-crypto-to-evade-sanctions-1771308905591/embed</strong></a></p><p>&nbsp;</p><p>Michael ben Baruch, Director of the UK Ministry of Tourism, welcomed the strong international turnout. He said that events of this scale not only showcase the unique scenery of the region but also encourage visitors to explore the wider attractions Israel has to offer.</p>

8,000 runners descend to Earth’s lowest point for the Dead Sea Land Marathon

Recognised as one of the most unique races on the global running calendar, the Dead Sea Land Marathon sawmore than 8,000 participants this year, including 32 runners from the UK, who made the dramatic descent to the lowest place on Earth for the unforgettable event. Now in its seventh edition, the marathon reached full capacity two months ahead of race day, reinforcing its status as a sought-after challenge for international endurance enthusiasts. What sets the race apart is its extraordinary course. For one day only, competitors are given access to areas typically off-limits to the public, including narrow gravel embankments spanning 6-8 metres wide that slice directly through the waters of the Dead Sea. Among the entrants was Yoel Levy, known as ‘The Jewish Fitness Coach’, who completed the marathon for the second time dressed as Batman in tribute to Ariel and Kfir Bibas. Also Read: 'Hoping that we can get back to diversity and equality': Coco Gauff on ICE action in US A seasoned international racer, Levy described the event as one of the standout experiences of his sporting year, citing both the dramatic landscape and the warm atmosphere created by fellow runners, organisers, and spectators. The event offers six race categories designed to suit a broad range of abilities, from a beginner-friendly 5km to a 50km ultramarathon. Participants could also choose the half marathon, full marathon or the popular 15km “Around Tamar” route. Beyond the competition itself, many runners took advantage of the Dead Sea’s famed natural therapies, including its mineral-rich mud baths. https://www.wionews.com/videos/russia-embraces-crypto-to-evade-sanctions-1771308905591/embed Michael ben Baruch, Director of the UK Ministry of Tourism, welcomed the strong international turnout. He said that events of this scale not only showcase the unique scenery of the region but also encourage visitors to explore the wider attractions Israel has to offer.

<p>8,000 runners, including 32 British people, competed in the unique Dead Sea Land Marathon, racing across exclusive dikes at the world’s lowest point</p>

<p>Former Pakistan speedster Shoaib Akhtar has done a U-turn on his remarks on the Pakistan Cricket Board (PCB) chief Mohsin Naqvi. During a TV interview with an Indian news channel following Pakistan’s 61-run loss against India the past Sunday in Colombo, Akhtar called out Naqvi on several grounds, including failing to stand by his stance on boycotting the India game, and also for running Pakistan Cricket into the ground. While he openly called Naqvi incompetent and illiterate in his earlier remark, Akhtar twisted it during another interview to a Pakistani news channel, calling the PCB boss a ‘good guy who wants to help Pakistan Cricket.</p><p>&nbsp;</p><p>Speaking on ARY News, the former fastest bowler in the world claimed that the Indian news channel twisted his words, and that he never targeted Naqvi in his outrage over Pakistan’s heaviest loss to India in the T20 World Cups. Explaining his remarks, Akhtar said he used those words from a broader perspective, which were definitely not aimed at Naqvi.&nbsp;</p><p>&nbsp;</p><p><strong>Also read | </strong><a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/usman-tariq-confident-of-pakistan-super-8-chances-after-india-drubbing-in-t20-world-cup-namibia-colombo-1771324525558"><strong>Usman Tariq confident of Pakistan’s Super 8 chances after India drubbing in T20 World Cup</strong></a><br>&nbsp;</p><p>“The words ‘incompetent and Jaahil (illiterate)’ that I used were not meant for Mohsin Naqvi bhai. It looked like I said those words for him. The incompetency topic I spoke about was from a broader perspective: that such a person can destroy any institution.&nbsp;<br>&nbsp;</p><p>“My hint was not towards Mohsin Naqvi (said while fumbling repeatedly), but the top brass that is running international cricket. But the television channel twisted it. In the same programme, I also said that we should not say wrong things about Mohsin Naqvi; he is a good guy. He wants to help Pakistan cricket but does not get the right advice,” Akhtar explained, as quoted by Times of India (TOI).<br>&nbsp;</p><p>He, however, added that his frustration was limited to Naqvi’s inability to stick by his words on Pakistan's boycott of India's game in the T20 World Cup.<br>&nbsp;</p><p>“I am angry with him as he took a stand but did not stick with it. The entire community was with him. He could have asked me about taking the U-turn,” he said.</p><h2>What did Akhtar say earlier?</h2><p>During the chat with ABP news just after Pakistan lost its record eighth match against India in the T20 World Cup, Akhtar said, “If you make me the chairman of a channel, how would I know how to run it? Now there is a person who does not know, and he is the chairman of the Pakistan Cricket Board. So what can be done now? How will the team function like this?” he asked. “Do you know what the biggest crime in the world is? Giving a big job to an incompetent and illiterate person.”<br>&nbsp;</p><p>Meanwhile, Pakistan need to win its final league game against Namibia on Wednesday (Feb 18) to qualify for the Super 8.</p>

Shoaib Akhtar makes a swift U-turn! After calling PCB chief Mohsin Naqvi "illiterate" on Indian TV, the pacer now claims Naqvi is a "good guy."

Former Pakistan speedster Shoaib Akhtar has done a U-turn on his remarks on the Pakistan Cricket Board (PCB) chief Mohsin Naqvi. During a TV interview with an Indian news channel following Pakistan’s 61-run loss against India the past Sunday in Colombo, Akhtar called out Naqvi on several grounds, including failing to stand by his stance on boycotting the India game, and also for running Pakistan Cricket into the ground. While he openly called Naqvi incompetent and illiterate in his earlier remark, Akhtar twisted it during another interview to a Pakistani news channel, calling the PCB boss a ‘good guy who wants to help Pakistan Cricket. Speaking on ARY News, the former fastest bowler in the world claimed that the Indian news channel twisted his words, and that he never targeted Naqvi in his outrage over Pakistan’s heaviest loss to India in the T20 World Cups. Explaining his remarks, Akhtar said he used those words from a broader perspective, which were definitely not aimed at Naqvi. Also read | Usman Tariq confident of Pakistan’s Super 8 chances after India drubbing in T20 World Cup “The words ‘incompetent and Jaahil (illiterate)’ that I used were not meant for Mohsin Naqvi bhai. It looked like I said those words for him. The incompetency topic I spoke about was from a broader perspective: that such a person can destroy any institution. “My hint was not towards Mohsin Naqvi (said while fumbling repeatedly), but the top brass that is running international cricket. But the television channel twisted it. In the same programme, I also said that we should not say wrong things about Mohsin Naqvi; he is a good guy. He wants to help Pakistan cricket but does not get the right advice,” Akhtar explained, as quoted by Times of India (TOI). He, however, added that his frustration was limited to Naqvi’s inability to stick by his words on Pakistan's boycott of India's game in the T20 World Cup. “I am angry with him as he took a stand but did not stick with it. The entire community was with him. He could have asked me about taking the U-turn,” he said. What did Akhtar say earlier? During the chat with ABP news just after Pakistan lost its record eighth match against India in the T20 World Cup, Akhtar said, “If you make me the chairman of a channel, how would I know how to run it? Now there is a person who does not know, and he is the chairman of the Pakistan Cricket Board. So what can be done now? How will the team function like this?” he asked. “Do you know what the biggest crime in the world is? Giving a big job to an incompetent and illiterate person.” Meanwhile, Pakistan need to win its final league game against Namibia on Wednesday (Feb 18) to qualify for the Super 8.

<p>Shoaib Akhtar makes a swift U-turn! After calling PCB chief Mohsin Naqvi "illiterate" on Indian TV, the pacer now claims Naqvi is a "good guy."</p>

‘Naqvi is a good guy, he wants to help Pakistan,’ Akhtar’s U-turn on PCB chief after calling him ‘illiterate’

<p>The Central Board of Secondary Education (CBSE) concluded the class 10 Mathematics Standard and Mathematics Basic board exams today. The exam was started at 10:30 AM and ended at 1:30 PM.</p><p>However, Indian U-19 cricketer Vaibhav Sooryavanshi did not attend the board exam. Speaking to ANI, NK Sinha, Principal of Podar International School, said that Vaibhav was absent and was marked absent as per CBSE rules. He added that they expected him to come, but he may have had other commitments like a cricket match or practice. He also said that Sooryavanshi might appear in the next exam. &nbsp;</p><p>&nbsp;</p><p>“He is absent today. He has not come to the examination centre. We have marked him absent according to the policy of CBSE… If a student is absent, we have to mark him absent… We were expecting him to come and give the examination, but there are many other obligations. There could be a cricket match or a practice… I think he will definitely take the next exam,” said Sinha.&nbsp;</p><p>&nbsp;</p><p><strong>Also Read - </strong><a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/australia-knocked-out-of-t20-world-cup-2026-as-zimbabwe-qualify-from-group-b-1771329953409"><strong>Australia knocked out of T20 World Cup 2026 as Zimbabwe qualify from Group B</strong></a></p><p>&nbsp;</p><p>Sooryavanshi was the Player of the Match in the finals vs England at the U-19 World Cup for his match-winning inning of 175 runs off 80 balls, comprising 15 fours and sixes each, reaching his century in 55 balls, which is one of the fastest in U-19 World Cup history and helped India win the World Cup for the sixth time.</p><p>&nbsp;</p><p>He was also the Player of the tournament, scoring 439 runs in seven matches at a brilliant strike rate of 169.50 and an average of 62.71. The left-handed opener hit the most sixes in the tournament (30 sixes). &nbsp;</p><p>&nbsp;</p><p>The 14-year old has already joined the pre-season camp of Rajasthan Royals in Nagpur. After an impressive debut season in 2025, he is expected to be an important player for the team in IPL 2026.</p><p>&nbsp;</p><p><i><strong>With inputs from news agencies</strong></i></p>

Sooryavanshi has already joined the pre-season camp of Rajasthan Royals in Nagpur. After an impressive debut season in 2025, he is expected to be an important player for the team in IPL 2026. 

The Central Board of Secondary Education (CBSE) concluded the class 10 Mathematics Standard and Mathematics Basic board exams today. The exam was started at 10:30 AM and ended at 1:30 PM. However, Indian U-19 cricketer Vaibhav Sooryavanshi did not attend the board exam. Speaking to ANI, NK Sinha, Principal of Podar International School, said that Vaibhav was absent and was marked absent as per CBSE rules. He added that they expected him to come, but he may have had other commitments like a cricket match or practice. He also said that Sooryavanshi might appear in the next exam. “He is absent today. He has not come to the examination centre. We have marked him absent according to the policy of CBSE… If a student is absent, we have to mark him absent… We were expecting him to come and give the examination, but there are many other obligations. There could be a cricket match or a practice… I think he will definitely take the next exam,” said Sinha. Also Read - Australia knocked out of T20 World Cup 2026 as Zimbabwe qualify from Group B Sooryavanshi was the Player of the Match in the finals vs England at the U-19 World Cup for his match-winning inning of 175 runs off 80 balls, comprising 15 fours and sixes each, reaching his century in 55 balls, which is one of the fastest in U-19 World Cup history and helped India win the World Cup for the sixth time. He was also the Player of the tournament, scoring 439 runs in seven matches at a brilliant strike rate of 169.50 and an average of 62.71. The left-handed opener hit the most sixes in the tournament (30 sixes). The 14-year old has already joined the pre-season camp of Rajasthan Royals in Nagpur. After an impressive debut season in 2025, he is expected to be an important player for the team in IPL 2026. With inputs from news agencies

<p>Sooryavanshi has already joined the pre-season camp of Rajasthan Royals in Nagpur. After an impressive debut season in 2025, he is expected to be an important player for the team in IPL 2026.&nbsp;</p>

Vaibhav Sooryavanshi marked absent for not appearing in Class 10 exam, prioritises IPL 2026

<p>The crucial T20 World Cup 2026 clash between Ireland and Zimbabwe was washed out at the Pallekele International Cricket Stadium in Pallekele on Tuesday (Feb 17). As a result, both teams earned one point each. With this outcome, Zimbabwe secured their place in the Super Eight stage of the tournament, joining India, Sri Lanka, New Zealand, West Indies, England and South Africa. Meanwhile, Australia was knocked out of the tournament, marking the second time in T20 World Cup history that they failed to advance to the next stage.<br>&nbsp;<br>Australia’s chances of reaching the Super Eight stage were already shaken after they lost to Sri Lanka by eight wickets in Kandy on Monday (Feb 16). Dushan Hemantha took three wickets for 37 runs in his four overs and helped bowl Australia out for 181. During the chase, Pathum Nissanka scored an unbeaten 100 from just 52 balls, leading Sri Lanka to an easy win and securing their place in the Super 8.&nbsp;</p><p>&nbsp;</p><p><strong>Also read - </strong><a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/usman-tariq-confident-of-pakistan-super-8-chances-after-india-drubbing-in-t20-world-cup-namibia-colombo-1771324525558"><strong>Usman Tariq confident of PAK's Super 8 chances after India drubbing in T20 WC</strong></a><br>&nbsp;<br>After the match, Australia captain Mitchell Marsh said that his team did not perform well enough and explained that the problem was mainly their execution.</p><p>&nbsp;</p><p>He further added that the team was disappointed but did not want to blame anyone and admitted that they have failed to execute their plans, especially as the pitch became slower later in the match.</p><p>&nbsp;</p><p>“I think it was probably just execution tonight. That full-strength batting lineup has some of the best players of spin in Australia. It was more about execution. Sri Lanka pulled it back beautifully. We were probably a few short after the start. We had great belief going into the second innings, but we were outplayed,” Marsh said at post-match press conference.</p><p>&nbsp;</p><p>“I guess we’ll never know what would have happened if we made 220. We had a good platform but weren’t able to execute towards the back end. It’s disappointing. We’re certainly not here to blame anyone, but we’re a disappointed group. We knew we were going to face spin towards the back end, the pitch slowed up a little bit, but again, it was about execution,” he added.</p>

This marks the first time in T20 World Cup history that Australia have been eliminated before the Super Eight stage.

The crucial T20 World Cup 2026 clash between Ireland and Zimbabwe was washed out at the Pallekele International Cricket Stadium in Pallekele on Tuesday (Feb 17). As a result, both teams earned one point each. With this outcome, Zimbabwe secured their place in the Super Eight stage of the tournament, joining India, Sri Lanka, New Zealand, West Indies, England and South Africa. Meanwhile, Australia was knocked out of the tournament, marking the second time in T20 World Cup history that they failed to advance to the next stage. Australia’s chances of reaching the Super Eight stage were already shaken after they lost to Sri Lanka by eight wickets in Kandy on Monday (Feb 16). Dushan Hemantha took three wickets for 37 runs in his four overs and helped bowl Australia out for 181. During the chase, Pathum Nissanka scored an unbeaten 100 from just 52 balls, leading Sri Lanka to an easy win and securing their place in the Super 8. Also read - Usman Tariq confident of PAK's Super 8 chances after India drubbing in T20 WC After the match, Australia captain Mitchell Marsh said that his team did not perform well enough and explained that the problem was mainly their execution. He further added that the team was disappointed but did not want to blame anyone and admitted that they have failed to execute their plans, especially as the pitch became slower later in the match. “I think it was probably just execution tonight. That full-strength batting lineup has some of the best players of spin in Australia. It was more about execution. Sri Lanka pulled it back beautifully. We were probably a few short after the start. We had great belief going into the second innings, but we were outplayed,” Marsh said at post-match press conference. “I guess we’ll never know what would have happened if we made 220. We had a good platform but weren’t able to execute towards the back end. It’s disappointing. We’re certainly not here to blame anyone, but we’re a disappointed group. We knew we were going to face spin towards the back end, the pitch slowed up a little bit, but again, it was about execution,” he added.

<p>This marks the first time in T20 World Cup history that Australia have been eliminated before the Super Eight stage.</p>

Australia knocked out of T20 World Cup 2026 as Zimbabwe qualify from Group B

<p>Pakistan spinner Usman Tariq is confident of his team’s chances of sealing a Super 8 spot in the ICC Men’s T20 World Cup 2026 following a drubbing against India in Colombo two nights ago. Pakistan lost to its arch-rivals by 61 runs in their marquee Group A game, conceding its eighth loss against the Men in Blue in this tournament’s history. While India qualified for the next round, with three wins in as many contested matches, Pakistan linger in third place after the USA, needing to win its final match against Namibia to enter the last eight.</p><p>&nbsp;</p><p>India, on the other hand, will take on the Netherlands in their final league game on Wednesday (Feb 18) in Ahmedabad.</p><p>&nbsp;</p><p>"Lifting the team is only difficult when you don't work on your mistakes committed in the last game," Tariq said in a chat with the reporters on Tuesday. "We have worked on our mistakes, so I think it will not be a tough task.</p><p>&nbsp;</p><p>"We have a resolve not to commit the same mistakes again."</p><p>&nbsp;</p><p><strong>Also read | </strong><a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/sunil-gavaskar-kapil-dev-among-14-legendary-captains-write-to-pakistan-govt-for-fair-treatment-of-imran-khan-in-jail-1771316790694"><strong>Gavaskar, Kapil Dev among 14 legendary captains write to Pakistan govt for fair treatment of Imran Khan in jail</strong></a></p><p>&nbsp;</p><p>Pakistan were criticised for asking India to bat then folding meekly for 114 in 18 overs chasing a stiff 176 target.</p><p>&nbsp;</p><p>"We can feel their (fans') disappointment because the match is watched by the whole nation," Tariq said. "So, we feel their pain, but I am sure when we play them (India) next, we will put up a better show."</p><p>&nbsp;</p><p>Tariq dismissed rumours that batting star Babar Azam and pace spearhead Shaheen Shah Afridi could be dropped against Namibia after poor performances against India.</p><p>&nbsp;</p><p>"Both Azam and Shaheen have won many matches for Pakistan, so if they did not perform well in one game, we should not write them off," said Tariq.</p><p>&nbsp;</p><p>Pakistan have faced Namibia only once before in a T20 international.</p><p>&nbsp;</p><p>"Whoever we play, we have the confidence to beat them, and our goal is to play the final and win the cup, which we will try our best to achieve."</p><p>&nbsp;</p><p>Meanwhile, Namibia has lost all three of their group matches thus far and has been knocked out of the Super 8 race.</p><p>&nbsp;</p><p><i>(With inputs from AFP)</i></p>

Usman Tariq remains confident of Pakistan’s Super 8 chances despite a 61-run loss to India. Can the Green Shirts beat Namibia to seal qualification?

Pakistan spinner Usman Tariq is confident of his team’s chances of sealing a Super 8 spot in the ICC Men’s T20 World Cup 2026 following a drubbing against India in Colombo two nights ago. Pakistan lost to its arch-rivals by 61 runs in their marquee Group A game, conceding its eighth loss against the Men in Blue in this tournament’s history. While India qualified for the next round, with three wins in as many contested matches, Pakistan linger in third place after the USA, needing to win its final match against Namibia to enter the last eight. India, on the other hand, will take on the Netherlands in their final league game on Wednesday (Feb 18) in Ahmedabad. "Lifting the team is only difficult when you don't work on your mistakes committed in the last game," Tariq said in a chat with the reporters on Tuesday. "We have worked on our mistakes, so I think it will not be a tough task. "We have a resolve not to commit the same mistakes again." Also read | Gavaskar, Kapil Dev among 14 legendary captains write to Pakistan govt for fair treatment of Imran Khan in jail Pakistan were criticised for asking India to bat then folding meekly for 114 in 18 overs chasing a stiff 176 target. "We can feel their (fans') disappointment because the match is watched by the whole nation," Tariq said. "So, we feel their pain, but I am sure when we play them (India) next, we will put up a better show." Tariq dismissed rumours that batting star Babar Azam and pace spearhead Shaheen Shah Afridi could be dropped against Namibia after poor performances against India. "Both Azam and Shaheen have won many matches for Pakistan, so if they did not perform well in one game, we should not write them off," said Tariq. Pakistan have faced Namibia only once before in a T20 international. "Whoever we play, we have the confidence to beat them, and our goal is to play the final and win the cup, which we will try our best to achieve." Meanwhile, Namibia has lost all three of their group matches thus far and has been knocked out of the Super 8 race. (With inputs from AFP)

<p>Usman Tariq remains confident of Pakistan’s Super 8 chances despite a 61-run loss to India. Can the Green Shirts beat Namibia to seal qualification?</p>

Usman Tariq confident of Pakistan’s Super 8 chances after India drubbing in T20 World Cup

<p>Rain delayed the toss for the crucial Zimbabwe vs Ireland T20 World Cup 2026 match at the Pallakele International Stadium in Kandy on Tuesday (Feb 17). The match is vital for both Zimbabwe and Australia, as if Zimbabwe win, they will move into the Super Eight stage and knock the 2021 champions Australia out of the tournament.</p><h2>What if Zimbabwe vs Ireland washes out</h2><p>If rain stops the match and there is no result, then both teams will get one point each. Zimbabwe would then have five points. Even if Australia beat Oman in their last league match on Friday, they can only reach four points. This means a no-result would still send Zimbabwe into the Super 8 along with Sri Lanka.</p><p>&nbsp;</p><p>Australia’s chances of reaching the Super Eight stage were already shaken after they lost to Sri Lanka by eight wickets in Kandy on Monday (Feb 16). Dushan Hemantha took three wickets for 37 runs in his four overs and helped bowl Australia out for 181. In chasing, Pathum Nissanka scored an unbeaten 100 from just 52 balls, leading Sri Lanka to an easy win and securing their place in the Super 8.</p><p>&nbsp;</p><p><strong>Also Read - </strong><a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/new-zealand-crush-canada-to-enter-super-8-afghanistan-knocked-out-from-t20-world-cup-2026-group-d-standings-1771319332418"><strong>New Zealand crush Canada to enter Super 8; AFG knocked out from T20 World Cup</strong></a></p><p>&nbsp;</p><p>After the match, Australia captain Mitchell Marsh said that his team did not perform well enough and explained that the problem was mainly their execution.&nbsp;</p><p>&nbsp;</p><p>He further added that the team was disappointed but did not want to blame anyone and admitted that they have failed to execute their plans, especially as the pitch became slower later in the match.&nbsp;</p><p>&nbsp;</p><p>“I think it was probably just execution tonight. That full-strength batting lineup has some of the best players of spin in Australia. It was more about execution. Sri Lanka pulled it back beautifully. We were probably a few short after the start. We had great belief going into the second innings, but we were outplayed,” Marsh said at post-match press conference.</p><p>&nbsp;</p><p>“I guess we’ll never know what would have happened if we made 220. We had a good platform but weren’t able to execute towards the back end. It’s disappointing. We’re certainly not here to blame anyone, but we’re a disappointed group. We knew we were going to face spin towards the back end, the pitch slowed up a little bit, but again, it was about execution,” he added.</p>

Australia’s chances in the Super Eight stage now totally depends on the Ireland vs Zimbabwe clash after they lost to Sri Lanka by eight wickets in Kandy on Monday (Feb 16).

Rain delayed the toss for the crucial Zimbabwe vs Ireland T20 World Cup 2026 match at the Pallakele International Stadium in Kandy on Tuesday (Feb 17). The match is vital for both Zimbabwe and Australia, as if Zimbabwe win, they will move into the Super Eight stage and knock the 2021 champions Australia out of the tournament. What if Zimbabwe vs Ireland washes out If rain stops the match and there is no result, then both teams will get one point each. Zimbabwe would then have five points. Even if Australia beat Oman in their last league match on Friday, they can only reach four points. This means a no-result would still send Zimbabwe into the Super 8 along with Sri Lanka. Australia’s chances of reaching the Super Eight stage were already shaken after they lost to Sri Lanka by eight wickets in Kandy on Monday (Feb 16). Dushan Hemantha took three wickets for 37 runs in his four overs and helped bowl Australia out for 181. In chasing, Pathum Nissanka scored an unbeaten 100 from just 52 balls, leading Sri Lanka to an easy win and securing their place in the Super 8. Also Read - New Zealand crush Canada to enter Super 8; AFG knocked out from T20 World Cup After the match, Australia captain Mitchell Marsh said that his team did not perform well enough and explained that the problem was mainly their execution. He further added that the team was disappointed but did not want to blame anyone and admitted that they have failed to execute their plans, especially as the pitch became slower later in the match. “I think it was probably just execution tonight. That full-strength batting lineup has some of the best players of spin in Australia. It was more about execution. Sri Lanka pulled it back beautifully. We were probably a few short after the start. We had great belief going into the second innings, but we were outplayed,” Marsh said at post-match press conference. “I guess we’ll never know what would have happened if we made 220. We had a good platform but weren’t able to execute towards the back end. It’s disappointing. We’re certainly not here to blame anyone, but we’re a disappointed group. We knew we were going to face spin towards the back end, the pitch slowed up a little bit, but again, it was about execution,” he added.

<p>Australia’s chances in the Super Eight stage now totally depends on the Ireland vs Zimbabwe clash after they lost to Sri Lanka by eight wickets in Kandy on Monday (Feb 16).</p>

T20 World Cup 2026: Can Australia qualify for Super 8 if Zimbabwe vs Ireland washes out

<p>New Zealand crushed Canada by eight wickets in Chennai on Thursday (Feb 17) to advance to the next round of the ICC Men’s T20 World Cup 2026, meaning last edition’s semi-finalists Afghanistan are among those knocked out from Group D. Earlier, South Africa also qualified for the Super 8s. Chasing 174, the Kiwis lost both openers inside the Powerplay before Rachin Ravindra and Glenn Phillips made light work of Canada’s bowling attack to complete a comprehensive win. Glenn Phillips was on 76 not out at the end with Rachin Ravindra unbeaten on 59.</p><p>&nbsp;</p><p>"We did get on a bit of a run at the end there, which was fantastic," said Phillips. "But honestly, Rach (Rachin) and I were just trying to stick to our processes and take it one ball at a time."</p><p>&nbsp;</p><p>Earlier in the first innings, Canada's Yuvraj Samra became the youngest player to score a T20 World Cup century, when he blasted 110 in 65 balls to help his side to 173-4. The 19-year-old brilliantly anchored the innings after captain Dilpreet Bajwa opted to bat first.</p><p>&nbsp;</p><p><strong>WATCH VIDEO -</strong></p>

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<p>Samra and Bajwa got Canada off to a superb start with an opening partnership of 116 in 14 overs. Bajwa fell caught by Phillips off Kyle Jamieson for 36, but Samra carried on and accelerated after the loss of his captain. He reached his hundred off 58 balls, hitting six sixes and 11 fours in all in the highest individual innings of the tournament so far.</p><p>&nbsp;</p><p><strong>Also read | </strong><a href="https://www.wionews.com/photos/who-is-yuvraj-samra-canadian-batter-named-after-india-s-yuvraj-singh-first-batter-from-associate-nations-to-score-t20-world-cup-hundred-1771316109153"><strong>Meet Yuvraj Samra - Canadian batter named after India's Yuvraj - first batter from associate nations to score T20 World Cup hundred</strong></a></p><p>&nbsp;</p><p>"I manifested this moment ever since we qualified for the World Cup," said the youngster, who was named after Indian great Yuvraj Singh. "Every single day, I dreamed about scoring a hundred on this stage.</p><p>&nbsp;</p><p>"To do it here, in my first appearance, and as the youngest player in this World Cup, it's truly a dream come true."</p><p>&nbsp;</p><p>Meanwhile, Phillips was full of praise for the teenager, calling his innings "fabulous".</p><p>&nbsp;</p><p>"He's a really clean striker of the ball. Got a long future ahead of him."</p><p>&nbsp;</p><p><i>(With inputs from AFP)</i></p>

New Zealand has become the sixth team, and second from Group D after South Africa, to qualify for the ICC Men's T20 World Cup Super 8 stage. 

New Zealand crushed Canada by eight wickets in Chennai on Thursday (Feb 17) to advance to the next round of the ICC Men’s T20 World Cup 2026, meaning last edition’s semi-finalists Afghanistan are among those knocked out from Group D. Earlier, South Africa also qualified for the Super 8s. Chasing 174, the Kiwis lost both openers inside the Powerplay before Rachin Ravindra and Glenn Phillips made light work of Canada’s bowling attack to complete a comprehensive win. Glenn Phillips was on 76 not out at the end with Rachin Ravindra unbeaten on 59. "We did get on a bit of a run at the end there, which was fantastic," said Phillips. "But honestly, Rach (Rachin) and I were just trying to stick to our processes and take it one ball at a time." Earlier in the first innings, Canada's Yuvraj Samra became the youngest player to score a T20 World Cup century, when he blasted 110 in 65 balls to help his side to 173-4. The 19-year-old brilliantly anchored the innings after captain Dilpreet Bajwa opted to bat first. WATCH VIDEO -

<p>New Zealand has become the sixth team, and second from Group D after South Africa, to qualify for the ICC Men's T20 World Cup Super 8 stage.&nbsp;</p>

New Zealand crush Canada to enter Super 8; AFG knocked out from T20 World Cup

<p>In a massive development surrounding former Pakistan’s World Cup-winning captain, Imran Khan’s deteriorating health condition, over a dozen ex-cricket captains, including two from India, Sunil Gavaskar and Kapil Dev, have written to the Pakistani government over the fair treatment of one of cricket’s most influential&nbsp;figures inside the jail. Imran has been in prison for over 800 days, and the latest reports suggested that he <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/former-pakistan-pm-imran-khan-s-kin-alleges-he-has-lost-85-of-his-vision-1770915782982">lost 85% vision in his right eye</a>, with the related authorities taking swift action to move him to a hospital for immediate treatment.</p><p>&nbsp;</p><p>In a joint statement, as reported by several publications, over 12 signatories, also including Australia's great and ex-India head coach, Greg Chappell, have made a fervent appeal to the Pakistan government for fairness in Imran Khan’s physical, mental, environmental, and social treatment.<br>&nbsp;</p><p>In their one-page request, the signatories wrote, "We respectfully urge the Government of Pakistan to ensure that Imran Khan receives:</p><ul><li>Immediate, adequate and ongoing medical attention from qualified specialists of his choosing to address his reported health issues.</li><li>Humane and dignified conditions of detention in line with international standards, including regular visits by close family members.</li><li>Fair and transparent access to legal processes without undue delay or hindrance.”</li></ul><p>Meanwhile, among those legendary captains are also Michael Atherton, Allan Border, Michael Brearley, Ian Chappell, Belinda Clark, David Gower, Kim Hughes, Nasser Hussain, Sir Clive Lloyd, Steve Waugh and John Wright.<br>&nbsp;</p><p>Considering most of these players either played against Imran or shared a platform with him (at some point during their careers), all raised concerns over his health crisis, compounded by the vision loss in his right eye.&nbsp;<br>&nbsp;</p><p>"Recent reports concerning his health - particularly the alarming deterioration of his vision while in custody - and the conditions of his imprisonment over the past two and a half years have caused us profound concern," the statement read. "As fellow cricketers who understand the values of fair play, honour, and respect that transcend the boundary rope, we believe that a person of Imran Khan's stature deserves to be treated with the dignity and basic human consideration befitting a former national leader and a global sporting icon," the letter read.</p><h3>‘Imran is universally admired’</h3><p>Imran was perhaps the greatest cricketer of his time; alongside several batting and bowling records to his name, let alone considering (he) being universally admired for his game and more so (for) his looks, Imran led Pakistan to its maiden World Cup crown in 1992 before calling time on his career. Mentioning the same in their letter to the Pakistan government, the letter read, “Imran Khan's contributions to the game are universally admired. As captain, he led Pakistan to their historic 1992 Cricket World Cup victory - a triumph built on skill, resilience, leadership, and sportsmanship that inspired generations across borders.<br>&nbsp;</p><p>"Many of us competed against him, shared the field with him, or grew up idolising his all-round brilliance, charisma, and competitive spirit. He remains one of the finest all-rounders and captains the sport has ever seen, earning respect from players, fans, and administrators alike."<br>&nbsp;</p><p>By also mentioning that Imran holds the distinction of being democratically elected as Pakistan’s Prime Minister, the signatories urged the authorities to uphold the principles of decency and justice and provide Imran Khan with the best possible treatment.&nbsp;<br>&nbsp;</p><p>“Beyond cricket, Imran Khan served as Prime Minister of Pakistan, leading his nation during a challenging period. Regardless of political perspectives, he holds the honour of having been democratically elected to the highest office in his country.<br>&nbsp;</p><p>"Cricket has long been a bridge between nations. Our shared history on the field reminds us that rivalry ends when the stumps are drawn - and respect endures. Imran Khan embodied that spirit throughout his career.<br>&nbsp;</p><p>"We call on authorities to honour it now by upholding the principles of decency and justice. This appeal is made in the spirit of sportsmanship and common humanity, without prejudice to any legal proceedings,” it concluded.</p>

Sunil Gavaskar, Kapil Dev, and 12 legendary captains urge the Pakistan Government to ensure medical care for Imran Khan amid reports of 85% vision loss.

In a massive development surrounding former Pakistan’s World Cup-winning captain, Imran Khan’s deteriorating health condition, over a dozen ex-cricket captains, including two from India, Sunil Gavaskar and Kapil Dev, have written to the Pakistani government over the fair treatment of one of cricket’s most influential figures inside the jail. Imran has been in prison for over 800 days, and the latest reports suggested that he lost 85% vision in his right eye, with the related authorities taking swift action to move him to a hospital for immediate treatment. In a joint statement, as reported by several publications, over 12 signatories, also including Australia's great and ex-India head coach, Greg Chappell, have made a fervent appeal to the Pakistan government for fairness in Imran Khan’s physical, mental, environmental, and social treatment. In their one-page request, the signatories wrote, "We respectfully urge the Government of Pakistan to ensure that Imran Khan receives: Immediate, adequate and ongoing medical attention from qualified specialists of his choosing to address his reported health issues. Humane and dignified conditions of detention in line with international standards, including regular visits by close family members. Fair and transparent access to legal processes without undue delay or hindrance.” Meanwhile, among those legendary captains are also Michael Atherton, Allan Border, Michael Brearley, Ian Chappell, Belinda Clark, David Gower, Kim Hughes, Nasser Hussain, Sir Clive Lloyd, Steve Waugh and John Wright. Considering most of these players either played against Imran or shared a platform with him (at some point during their careers), all raised concerns over his health crisis, compounded by the vision loss in his right eye. "Recent reports concerning his health - particularly the alarming deterioration of his vision while in custody - and the conditions of his imprisonment over the past two and a half years have caused us profound concern," the statement read. "As fellow cricketers who understand the values of fair play, honour, and respect that transcend the boundary rope, we believe that a person of Imran Khan's stature deserves to be treated with the dignity and basic human consideration befitting a former national leader and a global sporting icon," the letter read. ‘Imran is universally admired’ Imran was perhaps the greatest cricketer of his time; alongside several batting and bowling records to his name, let alone considering (he) being universally admired for his game and more so (for) his looks, Imran led Pakistan to its maiden World Cup crown in 1992 before calling time on his career. Mentioning the same in their letter to the Pakistan government, the letter read, “Imran Khan's contributions to the game are universally admired. As captain, he led Pakistan to their historic 1992 Cricket World Cup victory - a triumph built on skill, resilience, leadership, and sportsmanship that inspired generations across borders. "Many of us competed against him, shared the field with him, or grew up idolising his all-round brilliance, charisma, and competitive spirit. He remains one of the finest all-rounders and captains the sport has ever seen, earning respect from players, fans, and administrators alike." By also mentioning that Imran holds the distinction of being democratically elected as Pakistan’s Prime Minister, the signatories urged the authorities to uphold the principles of decency and justice and provide Imran Khan with the best possible treatment. “Beyond cricket, Imran Khan served as Prime Minister of Pakistan, leading his nation during a challenging period. Regardless of political perspectives, he holds the honour of having been democratically elected to the highest office in his country. "Cricket has long been a bridge between nations. Our shared history on the field reminds us that rivalry ends when the stumps are drawn - and respect endures. Imran Khan embodied that spirit throughout his career. "We call on authorities to honour it now by upholding the principles of decency and justice. This appeal is made in the spirit of sportsmanship and common humanity, without prejudice to any legal proceedings,” it concluded.

<p>Sunil Gavaskar, Kapil Dev, and 12 legendary captains urge the Pakistan Government to ensure medical care for Imran Khan amid reports of 85% vision loss.</p>

Gavaskar, Kapil Dev among 14 legendary captains write to Pakistan govt for fair treatment of Imran Khan in jail

The 19-year-old has been named after India legend Yuvraj Singh by his father Balhit Samra - a resident of Canada. Samra made his debut for Canada in ODIs in March 2025 and made the T20I debut in the same month - against Namibia - scoring 37 off 18 balls.

<p>The 19-year-old has been named after India legend Yuvraj Singh by his father Balhit Samra - a resident of Canada. Samra made his debut for Canada in ODIs in March 2025 and made the T20I debut in the same month - against Namibia - scoring 37 off 18 balls.</p>

Meet Yuvraj Samra - Canadian batter named after India's Yuvraj - first batter from associate nations to score T20 World Cup hundred

<p>Pakistan's latest thrashing by India in T20 World Cup 2026 on Sunday (Feb 15) at Premadasa Stadium in Sri Lanka isn't going down too well with either fans or Pakistan Cricket Board (PCB) officials. While the fans have brutally trolled them for an unspirited performance, PCB chief Mohsin Naqvi has also conveyed his displeasure to the team. Pakistan lost the match by 61 runs after being bowled out for 114 in a chase of 176. The 2009 champions now face Namibia in their last Group A fixture for a place in Super 8. If Pakistan lose against Namibia on Wednesday (Feb 18), they will have to depend on net run rate while vying with the USA for a place in the next round.</p><h2>Naqvi leaves red-faced with Pak loss inevitable vs India</h2><p>During the match, Naqvi was in the stadium and was visibly upset about how things were unfolding. Pakistan were unravelling like a pack of cards and the chief couldn't watch it at all. Naqvi eventually left the stadium before the Pak lost. "The Chairman left the match early at the Premadasa Stadium as it became obvious Pakistan were going to face another defeat to India," a source said as reported by the news agency PTI. Have a look at the video below:</p>

<blockquote class="twitter-tweet" data-media-max-width="560"><p lang="en" dir="ltr">VIDEO | ICC Men&#39;s T20 World Cup, 2026: PCB chief Mohsin Naqvi leaves R. Premadasa International Stadium. <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/INDvsPAK?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#INDvsPAK</a><br><br>(Full video available on PTI Videos - <a href="https://t.co/n147TvrpG7">https://t.co/n147TvrpG7</a>) <a href="https://t.co/QXbYcjFUCN">pic.twitter.com/QXbYcjFUCN</a></p>&mdash; Press Trust of India (@PTI_News) <a href="https://twitter.com/PTI_News/status/2023078463838748677?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">February 15, 2026</a></blockquote> <script async src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script>

<p>After the loss, Pakistan's eighth in T20 World Cups against India, Naqvi expressed his displeasure on the performance via a PCB official. The PCB chief "conveyed his displeasure over the team's performance in the 61-run loss to India to team manager Naved Akram Cheema," the source also informed.</p><p><strong>Also Read</strong> - <a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/t20-world-cup-2026-watch-nissanka-takes-catch-of-the-tournament-and-hits-a-ton-to-push-australia-to-exit-door-1771299830690">T20 World Cup 2026 | 'Catch of the tournament and a ton': How Nissanka pushed Australia to exit door</a></p><p>"Late night the management think tank decided enough was enough and it was to bench Babar and Shaheen and try out Salman Mirza/Naseem Shah and Fakhar Zaman against Namibia on Wednesday," it further added.</p><h2>How can Pakistan qualify for Super 8?</h2><p>For Pakistan to qualify to play Super 8, the equation is simple - beat Namibia. With two wins in three matches, win against Namibia will give Pakistan two points required to advance to the next stage. Meanwhile, a loss against Naimbia will keep Pakistan at four points in maximum four matches - same as the USA. The two teams then will fight it out over net run rate and the team with better NRR will proceed to next stage. Currently, USA's NRR is 0.788 and Pakistan are at -0.403 which means a loss will most definitely see Pakistan out of the tournament.</p>

For Pakistan to qualify to play Super 8, the equation is simple - beat Namibia. Currently, USA's NRR is 0.788 and Pakistan are at -0.403 which means a loss will most definitely see Pakistan out of the tournament.

Pakistan's latest thrashing by India in T20 World Cup 2026 on Sunday (Feb 15) at Premadasa Stadium in Sri Lanka isn't going down too well with either fans or Pakistan Cricket Board (PCB) officials. While the fans have brutally trolled them for an unspirited performance, PCB chief Mohsin Naqvi has also conveyed his displeasure to the team. Pakistan lost the match by 61 runs after being bowled out for 114 in a chase of 176. The 2009 champions now face Namibia in their last Group A fixture for a place in Super 8. If Pakistan lose against Namibia on Wednesday (Feb 18), they will have to depend on net run rate while vying with the USA for a place in the next round. Naqvi leaves red-faced with Pak loss inevitable vs India During the match, Naqvi was in the stadium and was visibly upset about how things were unfolding. Pakistan were unravelling like a pack of cards and the chief couldn't watch it at all. Naqvi eventually left the stadium before the Pak lost. "The Chairman left the match early at the Premadasa Stadium as it became obvious Pakistan were going to face another defeat to India," a source said as reported by the news agency PTI. Have a look at the video below:

<p>For Pakistan to qualify to play Super 8, the equation is simple - beat Namibia. Currently, USA's NRR is 0.788 and Pakistan are at -0.403 which means a loss will most definitely see Pakistan out of the tournament.</p>

T20 World Cup 2026 | PCB chief Naqvi conveys BLUNT message to Pak after loss vs India

<p>Sri Lankan opener Pathum Nissanka has done something incredible in the recently concluded T20 World Cup match against Australia in Pallekele, smashing his maiden hundred in this format and competition, unlocking several milestones, including two very rare ones. Nissanka led Sri Lanka’s charge during the run chase against the mighty Aussies on Monday (Feb 16), hitting an unbeaten 100 and helping his team win the match and qualify for Super 8s. His match-winning century also pushed Australia to the brink of a shock T20 WC exit.</p><p>&nbsp;</p><p>Nissanka's 100 not out against Australia broke plenty of records. While he is only the second batter (to date) to smash hundreds across formats and an ODI double hundred after Indian opener Rohit Sharma, Nissanka also holds the distinction of becoming the second player to do all of this (including a T20 World Cup hundred) since former West Indies opener Chris Gayle, creating history.</p><p>&nbsp;</p><p><strong>Also read | </strong><a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/t20-world-cup-who-are-the-first-centurions-in-each-edition-sri-lanka-pathum-nissanka-joins-gayle-raina-check-full-list-sl-vs-aus-colombo-1771308218289"><strong>T20 World Cup: Who are the first centurions in each edition? SL’s Nissanka joins Gayle, Raina; check full list</strong></a><br>&nbsp;</p><p>Nissanka has been Sri Lanka’s best bet for the last few years. While he first made headlines with his maiden ODI double hundred (210*) against Afghanistan in 2024, his 124* against England at the Oval later that year helped Sri Lanka secure a famous Test win. The right-handed batter smashed his maiden T20I hundred against India at last year’s Asia Cup, becoming only the fourth Sri Lankan batter after Mahela Jayawardene, Kusal Perera and Tillakaratne Dilshan to achieve this feat.&nbsp;</p><h3>Among the greats!&nbsp;</h3><p>Besides, his maiden T20 World Cup hundred, a match-winning 100* off 52 balls against Australia, saw him become the second Sri Lankan batter overall since Jayawardene in 2010 to hit a century in this competition's history.<br>&nbsp;</p><p>Meanwhile, Rohit and Gayle are the other two names to unlock most of the abovementioned feats. While Rohit hasn’t registered a T20 World Cup hundred, as the former Indian all-rounder, Suresh Raina remains the only one from the country to do so (to date), he has ticked the remaining boxes – hitting centuries across formats and an ODI double hundred, that too three times.<br>&nbsp;</p><p>Gayle, however, was the first man ever to achieve all such batting records.<br>&nbsp;</p><p>Having already qualified for the Super 8s, Sri Lanka will aim to remain unbeaten in the group stages by beating Zimbabwe in their last league game on Thursday (Feb 19) in Colombo.&nbsp;</p>

Pathum Nissanka joins Rohit Sharma in the elite ‘200-100’ club with a historic T20 World Cup ton vs Australia. Check the full list of records here.

Sri Lankan opener Pathum Nissanka has done something incredible in the recently concluded T20 World Cup match against Australia in Pallekele, smashing his maiden hundred in this format and competition, unlocking several milestones, including two very rare ones. Nissanka led Sri Lanka’s charge during the run chase against the mighty Aussies on Monday (Feb 16), hitting an unbeaten 100 and helping his team win the match and qualify for Super 8s. His match-winning century also pushed Australia to the brink of a shock T20 WC exit. Nissanka's 100 not out against Australia broke plenty of records. While he is only the second batter (to date) to smash hundreds across formats and an ODI double hundred after Indian opener Rohit Sharma, Nissanka also holds the distinction of becoming the second player to do all of this (including a T20 World Cup hundred) since former West Indies opener Chris Gayle, creating history. Also read | T20 World Cup: Who are the first centurions in each edition? SL’s Nissanka joins Gayle, Raina; check full list Nissanka has been Sri Lanka’s best bet for the last few years. While he first made headlines with his maiden ODI double hundred (210*) against Afghanistan in 2024, his 124* against England at the Oval later that year helped Sri Lanka secure a famous Test win. The right-handed batter smashed his maiden T20I hundred against India at last year’s Asia Cup, becoming only the fourth Sri Lankan batter after Mahela Jayawardene, Kusal Perera and Tillakaratne Dilshan to achieve this feat. Among the greats! Besides, his maiden T20 World Cup hundred, a match-winning 100* off 52 balls against Australia, saw him become the second Sri Lankan batter overall since Jayawardene in 2010 to hit a century in this competition's history. Meanwhile, Rohit and Gayle are the other two names to unlock most of the abovementioned feats. While Rohit hasn’t registered a T20 World Cup hundred, as the former Indian all-rounder, Suresh Raina remains the only one from the country to do so (to date), he has ticked the remaining boxes – hitting centuries across formats and an ODI double hundred, that too three times. Gayle, however, was the first man ever to achieve all such batting records. Having already qualified for the Super 8s, Sri Lanka will aim to remain unbeaten in the group stages by beating Zimbabwe in their last league game on Thursday (Feb 19) in Colombo.

<p>Pathum Nissanka joins Rohit Sharma in the elite ‘200-100’ club with a historic T20 World Cup ton vs Australia. Check the full list of records here.</p>

Pathum Nissanka unlocks rare feat in Pallekele: Joins Rohit in elite ‘200-100’ club after maiden T20 WC ton

<p>American tennis player Coco Gauff has shared her unfiltered thoughts on Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) doing crackdown across the country on immigration. Gauff, who has always been vocal about the political subjects, is currently in Dubai and shared here thoughts with reporters on Sunday (Feb 15). The world no. 5 is granddaughter of Yvonne Lee Odom who helped desegregation in schools in the USA in 1960s.</p><p>“Everything going on in the US, obviously I’m not really for it. I don’t think people should be dying in the streets just for existing. I don’t like what’s going on,” Gauff said in reference to the killings of Alex Pretti and Renee Nicole Good in Minnesota.</p><p><strong>Also Read</strong> - <a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/winter-olympics-2026-japanese-pair-riku-miura-and-ryuichi-kihara-win-figure-skating-gold-from-fifth-place-1771290471762">Winter Olympics 2026 | Miura, Kihara win figure skating gold from 5th place</a></p><p>“I think for me, it is tough to sometimes wake up and see something because I do care a lot about our country. I think people think I don’t for some reason, but I do. I’m very proud to be American.</p><p>“But I think when you’re from any country, you don’t have to represent the entire values of what’s going on in the leadership. I think there’s a lot of people around there who believe in the things I believe in, and believe in diversity and equality. So, I’m hoping as the future progresses that we can get back to those values,” she added.</p><h2><a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/fifa-world-cup-2026-dedicated-to-the-security-us-ice-chief-shares-agency-s-role-at-upcoming-event-1770885089722">US ICE chief shares agency's role at upcoming FIFA World Cup 2026</a></h2><p>Todd Lyons, the acting chief of US Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) has said that his department will be part of security set-up during the upcoming FIFA World Cup 2026. The football world cup is being co-hosted by the United States of America (USA) along with Mexico and Canada. The US will be hosting 78 matches while Mexico and Canada will host 13 matches each during the world cup which runs from Jun 11 to Jul 19.&nbsp;</p>

Gauff, who has always been vocal about the political subjects, is currently in Dubai and shared here thoughts with reporters on Sunday (Feb 15). The world no. 5 is granddaughter of Yvonne Lee Odom who helped desegregation in schools in the USA in 1960s.

American tennis player Coco Gauff has shared her unfiltered thoughts on Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) doing crackdown across the country on immigration. Gauff, who has always been vocal about the political subjects, is currently in Dubai and shared here thoughts with reporters on Sunday (Feb 15). The world no. 5 is granddaughter of Yvonne Lee Odom who helped desegregation in schools in the USA in 1960s. “Everything going on in the US, obviously I’m not really for it. I don’t think people should be dying in the streets just for existing. I don’t like what’s going on,” Gauff said in reference to the killings of Alex Pretti and Renee Nicole Good in Minnesota. Also Read - Winter Olympics 2026 | Miura, Kihara win figure skating gold from 5th place “I think for me, it is tough to sometimes wake up and see something because I do care a lot about our country. I think people think I don’t for some reason, but I do. I’m very proud to be American. “But I think when you’re from any country, you don’t have to represent the entire values of what’s going on in the leadership. I think there’s a lot of people around there who believe in the things I believe in, and believe in diversity and equality. So, I’m hoping as the future progresses that we can get back to those values,” she added. US ICE chief shares agency's role at upcoming FIFA World Cup 2026 Todd Lyons, the acting chief of US Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) has said that his department will be part of security set-up during the upcoming FIFA World Cup 2026. The football world cup is being co-hosted by the United States of America (USA) along with Mexico and Canada. The US will be hosting 78 matches while Mexico and Canada will host 13 matches each during the world cup which runs from Jun 11 to Jul 19.

<p>Gauff, who has always been vocal about the political subjects, is currently in Dubai and shared here thoughts with reporters on Sunday (Feb 15). The world no. 5 is granddaughter of Yvonne Lee Odom who helped desegregation in schools in the USA in 1960s.</p>

'Hoping that we can get back to diversity and equality': Coco Gauff on ICE action in US

<p>Sri Lankan opener Pathum Nissanka has joined an elite list of cricket players who were the first to smash a hundred in each T20 World Cup edition, including the ongoing one. Nissanka hit his maiden T20 WC hundred against Australia (100*) in Pallekele on Monday (Feb 16), helping his team qualify for the Super 8s, and pushing Australia to the brink of a shock exit. Currently in its 10th edition, this tournament has seen players scoring hundreds in eight of them, so let’s check who were the first ones to do so in each.</p><p>&nbsp;</p><p>Former West Indies opener and T20 great Chris Gayle was the first player to hit a T20 World Cup hundred, smashing a brilliant 117 against South Africa in the first game of the inaugural edition in 2007. The Proteas chased down 206 at the Wanderers in Johannesburg.<br>&nbsp;</p><p>While the next edition in England (two years later) had no centurions, the third one in the West Indies in 2010 saw former India star Suresh Raina enter this list. The left-handed batter hit a match-winning 101 against South Africa at St. Lucia, becoming the first and only Indian to date to hit a century in this tournament’s history.</p><p>&nbsp;</p><p><strong>Also read | </strong><a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/t20-world-cup-2026-watch-nissanka-takes-catch-of-the-tournament-and-hits-a-ton-to-push-australia-to-exit-door-1771299830690"><strong>T20 World Cup 2026 | 'Catch of the tournament and a ton': How Nissanka pushed Australia to exit door - WATCH</strong></a><br>&nbsp;</p><p>The next three editions in 2012, 2014 and 2016, respectively, had new names entering the list, starting with former New Zealand captain and England’s current head coach, Brendon McCullum, who made light work of Bangladesh in the 2012 edition with a brilliant 123, which also remains the highest individual score in T20 World Cups thus far.&nbsp;<br>&nbsp;</p><p>While ex-England opener Alex Hales was the first to score a hundred in the 2014 edition (116* against Sri Lanka), Bangladesh’s Tamim Iqbal did so against Oman (103*) in the following edition (in 2016) in India.<br>&nbsp;</p><p>Following a five-year hiatus, the competition resumed in 2021, with England’s Jos Buttler smashing his maiden T20 World Cup ton against Sri Lanka (101*) and adding his name to this list. In the 2022 edition in Australia, South Africa’s Rilee Rossouw smashed one against Bangladesh (109), with the next one (two years later in the Americas) had no centurions.<br>&nbsp;</p><p>At the ongoing 2026 edition in India and Sri Lanka, Nissanka hit one against Australia, playing perhaps one of the best knocks against the former winners.&nbsp;</p><h3>Here is the complete list of first centurions in each of the T20 World Cup editions –</h3><ul><li>2007 - Chris Gayle (117) against South Africa</li><li>2009 – No Centurion</li><li>2010 – Suresh Raina (101) against South Africa</li><li>2012 – Brendon McCullum (123) against Bangladesh</li><li>2014 – Alex Hales (116*) against Sri Lanka</li><li>2016 – Tamim Iqbal (103*) against Oman</li><li>2021 – Jos Buttler (101*) against Sri Lanka</li><li>2022 – Rilee Rossouw (109) against Bangladesh</li><li>2024 – No Centurions</li><li>2026 – Pathum Nissanka (100*) against Australia</li></ul>

Pathum Nissanka joins Gayle & Raina as the first centurions of a T20 World Cup edition. See the full list of players who hit their first ton in each year.

Sri Lankan opener Pathum Nissanka has joined an elite list of cricket players who were the first to smash a hundred in each T20 World Cup edition, including the ongoing one. Nissanka hit his maiden T20 WC hundred against Australia (100*) in Pallekele on Monday (Feb 16), helping his team qualify for the Super 8s, and pushing Australia to the brink of a shock exit. Currently in its 10th edition, this tournament has seen players scoring hundreds in eight of them, so let’s check who were the first ones to do so in each. Former West Indies opener and T20 great Chris Gayle was the first player to hit a T20 World Cup hundred, smashing a brilliant 117 against South Africa in the first game of the inaugural edition in 2007. The Proteas chased down 206 at the Wanderers in Johannesburg. While the next edition in England (two years later) had no centurions, the third one in the West Indies in 2010 saw former India star Suresh Raina enter this list. The left-handed batter hit a match-winning 101 against South Africa at St. Lucia, becoming the first and only Indian to date to hit a century in this tournament’s history. Also read | T20 World Cup 2026 | 'Catch of the tournament and a ton': How Nissanka pushed Australia to exit door - WATCH The next three editions in 2012, 2014 and 2016, respectively, had new names entering the list, starting with former New Zealand captain and England’s current head coach, Brendon McCullum, who made light work of Bangladesh in the 2012 edition with a brilliant 123, which also remains the highest individual score in T20 World Cups thus far. While ex-England opener Alex Hales was the first to score a hundred in the 2014 edition (116* against Sri Lanka), Bangladesh’s Tamim Iqbal did so against Oman (103*) in the following edition (in 2016) in India. Following a five-year hiatus, the competition resumed in 2021, with England’s Jos Buttler smashing his maiden T20 World Cup ton against Sri Lanka (101*) and adding his name to this list. In the 2022 edition in Australia, South Africa’s Rilee Rossouw smashed one against Bangladesh (109), with the next one (two years later in the Americas) had no centurions. At the ongoing 2026 edition in India and Sri Lanka, Nissanka hit one against Australia, playing perhaps one of the best knocks against the former winners. Here is the complete list of first centurions in each of the T20 World Cup editions – 2007 - Chris Gayle (117) against South Africa 2009 – No Centurion 2010 – Suresh Raina (101) against South Africa 2012 – Brendon McCullum (123) against Bangladesh 2014 – Alex Hales (116*) against Sri Lanka 2016 – Tamim Iqbal (103*) against Oman 2021 – Jos Buttler (101*) against Sri Lanka 2022 – Rilee Rossouw (109) against Bangladesh 2024 – No Centurions 2026 – Pathum Nissanka (100*) against Australia

<p>Pathum Nissanka joins Gayle &amp; Raina as the first centurions of a T20 World Cup edition. See the full list of players who hit their first ton in each year.</p>

T20 World Cup: Who are the first centurions in each edition? SL’s Nissanka joins Gayle, Raina; check full list

<p>The India vs Pakistan matches are always high intensity with players from both team under pressure to perform. In the latest match of now deadbeat rivalry on Sunday (Feb 15), India skipper Suryakumar Yadav was also seen losing his cool over spinner Kuldeep Yadav in the last monents of the game. The two, however, have cleared the air with a lighthearted video on Instagram, depicting the exact moment from the mach which led to the speculation of not all being good in the Indian camp. As for the match, India beat Pakistan by 61 runs too qualify for the next round of Super 8 and took another step closer to their title defence.</p><h2>What happened between Kuldeep and Suryakumar in India vs Pakistan</h2><p>After the match got over, Surya was congratulating and shaking hands with the Indian players. When SKY shook hands with Kuldeep, the spinner - playing his first match in the tournament - was seen as a bit rude before walking away without looking at the skipper with just a formality of the hand shake, leaving Surya shocked. What led to Kuldeep being upset was Surya not being happy about Kuldeep dropping a catch in the final stages of the match.</p><p><strong>Also Read </strong>- <a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/t20-world-cup-2026-australia-almost-out-of-super-8-here-s-how-they-can-qualify-after-loss-vs-sl-1771297129216">T20 WC 2026 | AUS out of Super 8? 2021 champs need 'luck of Irish' to qualify</a></p><p>In a video shared on Instagram, Surya and Kuldeep recreated the exact moment and seemed to have buried the hatchet as the caption of the video suggested: "Gussac chodh to bhai" which translates to "stop being upset, brother." Have a look at the video below:</p>

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overflow:hidden; padding:8px 0 7px; text-align:center; text-overflow:ellipsis; white-space:nowrap;"><a href="https://www.instagram.com/reel/DU0cXzBCNFv/?utm_source=ig_embed&amp;utm_campaign=loading" style=" color:#c9c8cd; font-family:Arial,sans-serif; font-size:14px; font-style:normal; font-weight:normal; line-height:17px; text-decoration:none;" target="_blank">A post shared by Surya Kumar Yadav (SKY) (@surya_14kumar)</a></p></div></blockquote>
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<h2>India play Netherlands in dead rubber group stage match on Feb 18</h2><p>India, with three wins in three matches in Group A, have already qualified for the Super 8. They now face Netherlands in their last Group A fixture on Wednesday (Feb 18). In Super 8, India's first match will be against South Africa on Feb 22 in Ahmedabad. In the second Super 8 match, India face topper of Group B - most likely Sri Lanka - on Feb 26 in Chennai. In the final Super 8 match, India take on West Indies on March 1 at Eden Gardens in Kolkata.</p><p>&nbsp;</p>

What led to Kuldeep being upset was Surya not being happy about Kuldeep dropping a catch in the final stages of the India vs Pak match on Feb 15. In a video shared on Instagram, Surya and Kuldeep recreated the exact moment and seemed to have buried the hatchet.

The India vs Pakistan matches are always high intensity with players from both team under pressure to perform. In the latest match of now deadbeat rivalry on Sunday (Feb 15), India skipper Suryakumar Yadav was also seen losing his cool over spinner Kuldeep Yadav in the last monents of the game. The two, however, have cleared the air with a lighthearted video on Instagram, depicting the exact moment from the mach which led to the speculation of not all being good in the Indian camp. As for the match, India beat Pakistan by 61 runs too qualify for the next round of Super 8 and took another step closer to their title defence. What happened between Kuldeep and Suryakumar in India vs Pakistan After the match got over, Surya was congratulating and shaking hands with the Indian players. When SKY shook hands with Kuldeep, the spinner - playing his first match in the tournament - was seen as a bit rude before walking away without looking at the skipper with just a formality of the hand shake, leaving Surya shocked. What led to Kuldeep being upset was Surya not being happy about Kuldeep dropping a catch in the final stages of the match. Also Read - T20 WC 2026 | AUS out of Super 8? 2021 champs need 'luck of Irish' to qualify In a video shared on Instagram, Surya and Kuldeep recreated the exact moment and seemed to have buried the hatchet as the caption of the video suggested: "Gussac chodh to bhai" which translates to "stop being upset, brother." Have a look at the video below:

<p>What led to Kuldeep being upset was Surya not being happy about Kuldeep dropping a catch in the final stages of the India vs Pak match on Feb 15. In a video shared on Instagram, Surya and Kuldeep recreated the exact moment and seemed to have buried the hatchet.</p>

T20 World Cup 2026 | WATCH - Surya, Kuldeep recreate 'friction' from IND vs PAK to bury hatchet

<p>Pathum Nissanka, the Sri Lanka batter who has put Australia on brink of elimination from T20 World Cup 2026, says the Aussies couldn't bowl well. That might be true but before he scored a brilliant 52-ball unbeaten 100 in a chase of 182, Nissanka also plucked a blinding catch out of thin air - as a sign that it was his day and it was indeed. Sri Lanka bossed the chase of 182 in just 18 overs on Monday (Feb 16) at Pallekele in Kandy and qualified for the Super 8 from Group B. Australia, on the other hand, are now hoping for 'luck of Irish' to come through for them.</p><p><strong>Also Read:</strong> <a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/t20-world-cup-2026-australia-almost-out-of-super-8-here-s-how-they-can-qualify-after-loss-vs-sl-1771297129216">T20 World Cup 2026 | Australia out of Super 8 race? 2021 champs need 'luck of Irish' to qualify after humiliating loss vs SL</a></p><h2>Nissanka's catch restrict Australia to 181</h2><p>Australia were 160/5 in 16 overs with Maxwell on the crease - in perfect position to take his team past 200 as he has done for so many years. Maxwell hit a reverse shot on the first ball of 17th over by Dushan Hemantha but Nissanka, at point, flung himself at the ball to catch it mid-air and chnaged the match. Watch the catch below:</p>

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<p>While batting, Nissanka lost his part Kusal Perera in the second over only but then began the carnage. Nissanka added 97 runs with Kusal Mendis in just 11 overs then Mendis departed for his brilliant 38-ball 51 but Nissanka stayed. He stayed till the end and added required 75 runs (plus two extra) with Pavan Rathnayake (15-ball 28) in about six overs to see his team through. He finished at exact 100 off 52, hitting 10 fours and 5 sixes - a target of his. Have a look at the innings below:</p>

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<h2>Nissanka on his match winnings innings vs Australia</h2><p>"After we lost the first wicket, Kusal and I just planned to have a good powerplay," Nissanka said after the match. "He got a good start and that made things easier for me. We thought that there would be some dew, so the plan was to bat normally until that arrived. After 12 overs we were going to take stock and one of us would make a charge."</p><p>"I had a big target to hit a 100 in this World Cup, so I'm happy I was able to do that," Nissanka said about the ton. "We had played a match on this wicket, and we knew it was good for batting. Because Kusal and I batted well also, Australia couldn't bowl so well to us," he added.</p><p>&nbsp;</p>

Before he scored a brilliant 52-ball unbeaten 100 in a chase of 182, Nissanka also plucked a blinding catch out of thin air - as a sign that it was his day and it was indeed. Sri Lanka bossed the chase of 182 in just 18 overs and qualified for the Super 8 from Group B.

Pathum Nissanka, the Sri Lanka batter who has put Australia on brink of elimination from T20 World Cup 2026, says the Aussies couldn't bowl well. That might be true but before he scored a brilliant 52-ball unbeaten 100 in a chase of 182, Nissanka also plucked a blinding catch out of thin air - as a sign that it was his day and it was indeed. Sri Lanka bossed the chase of 182 in just 18 overs on Monday (Feb 16) at Pallekele in Kandy and qualified for the Super 8 from Group B. Australia, on the other hand, are now hoping for 'luck of Irish' to come through for them. Also Read: T20 World Cup 2026 | Australia out of Super 8 race? 2021 champs need 'luck of Irish' to qualify after humiliating loss vs SL Nissanka's catch restrict Australia to 181 Australia were 160/5 in 16 overs with Maxwell on the crease - in perfect position to take his team past 200 as he has done for so many years. Maxwell hit a reverse shot on the first ball of 17th over by Dushan Hemantha but Nissanka, at point, flung himself at the ball to catch it mid-air and chnaged the match. Watch the catch below:

<p>Before he scored a brilliant 52-ball unbeaten 100 in a chase of 182, Nissanka also plucked a blinding catch out of thin air - as a sign that it was his day and it was indeed. Sri Lanka bossed the chase of 182 in just 18 overs and qualified for the Super 8 from Group B.</p>

T20 World Cup 2026 | 'Catch of the tournament and a ton': How Nissanka pushed Australia to exit door - WATCH

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