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Meet top 5 Indian batters with fastest T20I centuries

South Africa captain Laura Wolvaardt made history on Tuesday by becoming the highest run-scorer in women’s T20Is in a calendar year. The right-handed batter has scored 822 runs from 22 WT20I matches in 2026. Wolvaardt crossed the milestone with an unbeaten 126 against Zimbabwe in the third WT20I, surpassing Hong Kong’s Natasha Miles, who had scored 800 runs in 27 matches this year.&nbsp;UAE’s Esha Oza and Sri Lanka’s Chamari Athapaththu are next on the list of players with the most WT20I runs in a calendar year.<h2>Batters with most runs in WT20Is in a calendar year</h2><ul><li>&nbsp;Laura Wolvaardt (South Africa) - 815 runs in 22 matches (2026)</li><li>Natasha Miles (Hong Kong) - 800 runs in 27 matches (2026)</li><li>Esha Oza (UAE) - 779 runs in &nbsp;22 matches (2025)</li><li>Chamari Athapaththu (SL) - 720 runs in &nbsp;21 matches (2024)</li><li>Esha Oza (UAE) - 711 runs in &nbsp;20 matches (2024)</li></ul>Wolvaardt’s century also played a key role in South Africa’s 80-run victory over Zimbabwe. With the hundred, she equalled Athapaththu’s record for the most WT20I centuries as captain. Both players now have four centuries each as captains.

Laura Wolvaardt made history on Tuesday by breaking the world record for the most WT20I runs scored in a calendar year.

South Africa captain Laura Wolvaardt made history on Tuesday by becoming the highest run-scorer in women’s T20Is in a calendar year. The right-handed batter has scored 822 runs from 22 WT20I matches in 2026. Wolvaardt crossed the milestone with an unbeaten 126 against Zimbabwe in the third WT20I, surpassing Hong Kong’s Natasha Miles, who had scored 800 runs in 27 matches this year. UAE’s Esha Oza and Sri Lanka’s Chamari Athapaththu are next on the list of players with the most WT20I runs in a calendar year. Batters with most runs in WT20Is in a calendar year Laura Wolvaardt (South Africa) - 815 runs in 22 matches (2026) Natasha Miles (Hong Kong) - 800 runs in 27 matches (2026) Esha Oza (UAE) - 779 runs in 22 matches (2025) Chamari Athapaththu (SL) - 720 runs in 21 matches (2024) Esha Oza (UAE) - 711 runs in 20 matches (2024) Wolvaardt’s century also played a key role in South Africa’s 80-run victory over Zimbabwe. With the hundred, she equalled Athapaththu’s record for the most WT20I centuries as captain. Both players now have four centuries each as captains.

Laura Wolvaardt made history on Tuesday by breaking the world record for the most WT20I runs scored in a calendar year.

UPDATE: Pakistan wicketkeeper-batter Mohammad Rizwan's writ petition against being question by the country's National Cyber Crime Investigation Agency (NCCIA) has been rejected by Lahore High Court on Thursday (Sep 17). The court has also directed the player to answer the questions asked by the agency.&nbsp;Rizwan had filed a writ petition in the Lahore High Court against being summoned by Pakistan's NCCIA in the aftermath of the Lord's Test overhaul after a loss to England. Rizwan was one of seven players who were abruptly dropped from the squad along with Imam-ul-Haq, who was also questioned by the NCCIA. The players were questioned last week post the tour, which ended in a 0-3 whitewash. The NCCIA, according to Cricinfo, was given a questionnaire to be filled by the September 15 deadline. While Imam sent it back after filling it, Rizwan chose to file the petition on Monday (Sep 14).<h2>Rizwan goes to court against being questioned by Pakistan's cyber crime agency</h2>Rizwan, as reported by Cricinfo, moved to the court against being questioned, citing a lack of allegations and also questioning the NCCIA's jurisdiction for summoning him. The questionnaire included the players' travel and financial histories along with their personal and career details.Also Read - <a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/india-squad-west-indies-2026-odi-t20i-auqib-nabi-mayank-yadav-1789573587522">Auqib Nabi earns maiden ODI call-up; Mayank returns for WI T20Is| check squads</a>"Why was I called by the NCCIA?" Rizwan asked in his letter, as reported by Pakistan-based news outlet The News.It is not clear at the moment whether the questioning is part of the PCB's inquiry which it had announced last week, when the board had said that it "initiated an internal disciplinary inquiry following media reports concerning discipline and conduct, which are currently being reviewed internally"."We have had a discussion to ascertain the reasons behind it. They include factors beyond performance and we will get to the bottom of it," PCB chief Mohsin Naqvi had also said.<h2>What brought the inquiry upon the Pak players?</h2>The drama started after Pakistan's loss in the second Test by 194 runs after losing the first Test by an innings and 103 runs. Imam, who was named in the second Test playing XI, did not bat because of a calf tear but was accused of faking an injury. Rizwan, who returned scores of 12, 41, 7, and 1 across four innings, was also criticised for his shot selection.Pakistan selector Aaqib Javed, in an interview with local broadcaster Geo TV at the time, had said that "the message we're sending to the recalled players is that you have to raise your game on important tours and compete, and we should be able to see some effort."Following the wholesale changes, which did not change the result in the third Test, Pakistan selector Misbah-ul-Haq had also resigned.

Pakistani wicketkeeper-batter Mohammad Rizwan writ petition has been rejected by the Lahore High Court against NCCIA summons after a 0-3 Test series loss to England. He cited lack of allegations and questioned their jurisdiction.

UPDATE: Pakistan wicketkeeper-batter Mohammad Rizwan's writ petition against being question by the country's National Cyber Crime Investigation Agency (NCCIA) has been rejected by Lahore High Court on Thursday (Sep 17). The court has also directed the player to answer the questions asked by the agency. Rizwan had filed a writ petition in the Lahore High Court against being summoned by Pakistan's NCCIA in the aftermath of the Lord's Test overhaul after a loss to England. Rizwan was one of seven players who were abruptly dropped from the squad along with Imam-ul-Haq, who was also questioned by the NCCIA. The players were questioned last week post the tour, which ended in a 0-3 whitewash. The NCCIA, according to Cricinfo, was given a questionnaire to be filled by the September 15 deadline. While Imam sent it back after filling it, Rizwan chose to file the petition on Monday (Sep 14). Rizwan goes to court against being questioned by Pakistan's cyber crime agency Rizwan, as reported by Cricinfo, moved to the court against being questioned, citing a lack of allegations and also questioning the NCCIA's jurisdiction for summoning him. The questionnaire included the players' travel and financial histories along with their personal and career details. Also Read - Auqib Nabi earns maiden ODI call-up; Mayank returns for WI T20Is| check squads "Why was I called by the NCCIA?" Rizwan asked in his letter, as reported by Pakistan-based news outlet The News. It is not clear at the moment whether the questioning is part of the PCB's inquiry which it had announced last week, when the board had said that it "initiated an internal disciplinary inquiry following media reports concerning discipline and conduct, which are currently being reviewed internally". "We have had a discussion to ascertain the reasons behind it. They include factors beyond performance and we will get to the bottom of it," PCB chief Mohsin Naqvi had also said. What brought the inquiry upon the Pak players? The drama started after Pakistan's loss in the second Test by 194 runs after losing the first Test by an innings and 103 runs. Imam, who was named in the second Test playing XI, did not bat because of a calf tear but was accused of faking an injury. Rizwan, who returned scores of 12, 41, 7, and 1 across four innings, was also criticised for his shot selection. Pakistan selector Aaqib Javed, in an interview with local broadcaster Geo TV at the time, had said that "the message we're sending to the recalled players is that you have to raise your game on important tours and compete, and we should be able to see some effort." Following the wholesale changes, which did not change the result in the third Test, Pakistan selector Misbah-ul-Haq had also resigned.

Pakistani wicketkeeper-batter Mohammad Rizwan writ petition has been rejected by the Lahore High Court against NCCIA summons after a 0-3 Test series loss to England. He cited lack of allegations and questioned their jurisdiction.

Pak batter Rizwan's petition against being questioned by cyber crime agency rejected by court

Shreyas Iyer-led Team India will aim to complete a second straight T20I series whitewash when they face Afghanistan in the third and final match at the Arun Jaitley Stadium in New Delhi on Thursday (Sept 17). The T20 World Cup 2026 champions had earlier completed a 3-0 series sweep against Zimbabwe in July. However, after taking over as captain from Suryakumar Yadav, who guided India to the T20 World Cup title in March, Iyer suffered consecutive series defeats against Ireland and England.&nbsp;India have, however, dominated the ongoing series, winning each of the first two matches by seven wickets. With the series already decided, the visitors could use the final game to give opportunities to some of their other players before travelling to Japan for the 2026 Asian Games.&nbsp;&nbsp;Also Read - <a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/fide-chess-olympiad-pakistan-forfeit-opening-round-matches-against-israel-1789636146245">FIDE Chess Olympiad: Pakistan forfeit opening round matches against Israel</a><h2>IND vs AFG, 3rd T20I: Match Details</h2><h2>When will the IND vs AFG, 3rd T20I be played?</h2>The third T20I between India and Afghanistan will be played on Thursday (Sept 17). The toss is scheduled for 7:00 pm IST.<h2>Where is the match being played?</h2>The match will be held at Arun Jaitley Stadium in New Delhi.&nbsp;Also Read - <a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/taylor-swift-husband-travis-kelce-named-one-of-the-victims-in-35-million-ponzi-scheme-1789633566980">Chiefs TE Travis Kelce named one of the victims in $35 million ponzi scheme</a><h2>Where can fans watch the match on television?</h2>The live telecast of the third T20I between India and Afghanistan will be available on Sony Sports Network in India.<h2>Where to livestream IND vs AFG, 3rd T20I?</h2>The livestream of the third T20I between India and Afghanistan will be available on the FanCode app and website.<h2>Squads</h2>India: Shreyas Iyer (C), Abhishek Sharma, Vaibhav Sooryavanshi, Sanju Samson (WK), Ishan Kishan (WK), Tilak Varma (VC), Shivam Dube, Nitish Kumar Reddy, Axar Patel, Washington Sundar, Varun Chakaravarthy, Ravi Bishnoi, Jasprit Bumrah, Arshdeep Singh and Yash Thakur&nbsp;Afghanistan: Ibrahim Zadran (C), Rahmanullah Gurbaz (WK), Noor Rahman (WK), Sediqullah Atal, Darwish Rasooli, Azmatullah Omarzai, Gulbadin Naib, Mohammad Nabi, Rashid Khan, Nangyal Kharoti, Noor Ahmad, Mujeeb Ur Rahman, Fazal Haq Farooqi, Abdullah Ahmadzai and Naveen-ul-Haq

As the crucial T20I clash between India and Afghanistan approaches, here’s a look at the live streaming details for fans in India.

Shreyas Iyer-led Team India will aim to complete a second straight T20I series whitewash when they face Afghanistan in the third and final match at the Arun Jaitley Stadium in New Delhi on Thursday (Sept 17). The T20 World Cup 2026 champions had earlier completed a 3-0 series sweep against Zimbabwe in July. However, after taking over as captain from Suryakumar Yadav, who guided India to the T20 World Cup title in March, Iyer suffered consecutive series defeats against Ireland and England. India have, however, dominated the ongoing series, winning each of the first two matches by seven wickets. With the series already decided, the visitors could use the final game to give opportunities to some of their other players before travelling to Japan for the 2026 Asian Games. Also Read - FIDE Chess Olympiad: Pakistan forfeit opening round matches against Israel IND vs AFG, 3rd T20I: Match Details When will the IND vs AFG, 3rd T20I be played? The third T20I between India and Afghanistan will be played on Thursday (Sept 17). The toss is scheduled for 7:00 pm IST. Where is the match being played? The match will be held at Arun Jaitley Stadium in New Delhi. Also Read - Chiefs TE Travis Kelce named one of the victims in $35 million ponzi scheme Where can fans watch the match on television? The live telecast of the third T20I between India and Afghanistan will be available on Sony Sports Network in India. Where to livestream IND vs AFG, 3rd T20I? The livestream of the third T20I between India and Afghanistan will be available on the FanCode app and website. Squads India: Shreyas Iyer (C), Abhishek Sharma, Vaibhav Sooryavanshi, Sanju Samson (WK), Ishan Kishan (WK), Tilak Varma (VC), Shivam Dube, Nitish Kumar Reddy, Axar Patel, Washington Sundar, Varun Chakaravarthy, Ravi Bishnoi, Jasprit Bumrah, Arshdeep Singh and Yash Thakur Afghanistan: Ibrahim Zadran (C), Rahmanullah Gurbaz (WK), Noor Rahman (WK), Sediqullah Atal, Darwish Rasooli, Azmatullah Omarzai, Gulbadin Naib, Mohammad Nabi, Rashid Khan, Nangyal Kharoti, Noor Ahmad, Mujeeb Ur Rahman, Fazal Haq Farooqi, Abdullah Ahmadzai and Naveen-ul-Haq

As the crucial T20I clash between India and Afghanistan approaches, here’s a look at the live streaming details for fans in India.

IND vs AFG, 3rd T20I: When and where to watch live streaming in India?

Pakistan has handed Israel a 4-0 win by walkover after not playing against them in the opening round of the ongoing FIDE Chess Olympiad on Wednesday (Sep 16) in Samarkand, Uzbekistan. The move came in support of Palestine, as informed by Chess Federation of Pakistan (CFP) chief Syed Zeeshan Naqvi, according to the Times of Karachi. Naqvi also said that the decision was in accordance with the Pakistan government's official stance on Israel.<h2>Why didn't Pakistan play Israel in the Chess Olympiad?</h2>Pakistan Chess Federation chief Naqvi said to the Times of Karachi, as reported by The Hindu: "Pakistan has a clear and consistent policy regarding Israel and ... the federation could not participate in a match contrary to the government’s policy.""We have boycotted the match to express solidarity with the Palestinian people," he added. As a result, Israel got a 4-0 win without moving a single piece on the board.Also Read - <a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/they-can-endlessly-torture-you-england-coach-tuchel-stands-by-substitutions-against-argentina-in-fifa-world-cup-semis-1789627527028">England coach Tuchel stands by substitutions against Argentina in FIFA WC semis</a>Pakistan next plays Seychelles in the second round of the 46th Chess Olympiad.

<h2>What about other matches?</h2>Among other matches, most of the top nations won their first-round matches with a 4-0 scoreline. India, however, won 3-1 against Thailand as <a href="https://x.com/FIDE_chess/status/2100259299100393960">Arjun Erigaisi lost against Laohawirapap Prin</a>."Erigaisi had enjoyed the better position for much of the game, but a tactical oversight towards the end allowed Laohawirapap to turn the tables and secure a memorable win," read a release by the Chess Olympiad.Results of the five top matches in the opening round of the Open section:United States of America 3.5-0.5 Iraq India 3-1 Thailand Jamaica 0-4 Uzbekistan China 4-0 Uganda Faroe Islands 0-4 GermanyResults of the five top matches in the Women’s section:India 4-0 Dominican Republic Tunisia 0-4 Georgia Kazakhstan 4-0 Botswana Zambia 0-4 China United States of America 4-0 Andorra&nbsp;

Pakistan forfeited their opening round match of the 46th Chess Olympiad to Israel via 4-0 walkover, citing government policy and solidarity with Palestine. Most top nations, including India, won.

Pakistan has handed Israel a 4-0 win by walkover after not playing against them in the opening round of the ongoing FIDE Chess Olympiad on Wednesday (Sep 16) in Samarkand, Uzbekistan. The move came in support of Palestine, as informed by Chess Federation of Pakistan (CFP) chief Syed Zeeshan Naqvi, according to the Times of Karachi. Naqvi also said that the decision was in accordance with the Pakistan government's official stance on Israel. Why didn't Pakistan play Israel in the Chess Olympiad? Pakistan Chess Federation chief Naqvi said to the Times of Karachi, as reported by The Hindu: "Pakistan has a clear and consistent policy regarding Israel and ... the federation could not participate in a match contrary to the government’s policy." "We have boycotted the match to express solidarity with the Palestinian people," he added. As a result, Israel got a 4-0 win without moving a single piece on the board. Also Read - England coach Tuchel stands by substitutions against Argentina in FIFA WC semis Pakistan next plays Seychelles in the second round of the 46th Chess Olympiad.

Pakistan forfeited their opening round match of the 46th Chess Olympiad to Israel via 4-0 walkover, citing government policy and solidarity with Palestine. Most top nations, including India, won.

FIDE Chess Olympiad: Pakistan forfeit opening round matches against Israel

Travis Kelce, the NFL superstar who plays tight end for the Kansas City Chiefs, has been named one of the victims in a Ponzi scheme. The scheme, run by Siddharth Jawahar, saw investors losing $35 million from investments done between July 2016 and December 2023. The accused was sentenced to 11 years in prison on Tuesday (Sep 15) by the U.S. District Court for the Eastern District of Missouri. It is, however, not revealed how much money Kelce lost in the scheme. Assistant U.S. Attorney Derek Wiseman prosecuted the case and mentioned Travis Kelce's name, as reported by television station KMOV, but added no further comments.<h2>Kelce one of the victims of Ponzi scheme</h2>Kelce, who has career earnings in excess of $111 million according to Spotrac, invested money in Swiftarc Capital LLC, based out of Texas, which began operations in 2015.Also Read - <a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/they-can-endlessly-torture-you-england-coach-tuchel-stands-by-substitutions-against-argentina-in-fifa-world-cup-semis-1789627527028">'They can endlessly torture you:' England coach Tuchel stands by substitutions against Argentina in FIFA World Cup semis</a>"Jawahar ran a Texas-based investment company called Swiftarc Capital LLC. He initially invested in a diverse array of securities, but in 2015, began investing client funds in a single investment, Philip Morris Pakistan (PMP). Eventually, 99% of client funds were consolidated into PMP. When the value of PMP declined, Jawahar did not tell investors, instead claiming that shares were trading at a much higher price and that they were making profits. Jawahar used money from new investors to repay older investors and to fuel an extravagant lifestyle that included flights on private planes, stays at luxury hotels and expensive outings at fancy restaurants," read the news release by the US attorney's office. &nbsp;<h2>What next for Jawahar?</h2>Jawahar, a 38-year-old investment advisor, accepted the three counts of wire fraud charges in January and was looking at a maximum sentence of 20 years as well as a $250,000 fine. The court, however, kept his sentence to 11 years and ordered him to pay “$31.35 million in restitution to victims.”

Kansas City Chiefs tight end Travis Kelce was named as a victim in an $35M Ponzi scheme run by Siddharth Jawahar, who was sentenced to 11 years in prison and ordered to pay $31.35M in restitution.

Travis Kelce, the NFL superstar who plays tight end for the Kansas City Chiefs, has been named one of the victims in a Ponzi scheme. The scheme, run by Siddharth Jawahar, saw investors losing $35 million from investments done between July 2016 and December 2023. The accused was sentenced to 11 years in prison on Tuesday (Sep 15) by the U.S. District Court for the Eastern District of Missouri. It is, however, not revealed how much money Kelce lost in the scheme. Assistant U.S. Attorney Derek Wiseman prosecuted the case and mentioned Travis Kelce's name, as reported by television station KMOV, but added no further comments. Kelce one of the victims of Ponzi scheme Kelce, who has career earnings in excess of $111 million according to Spotrac, invested money in Swiftarc Capital LLC, based out of Texas, which began operations in 2015. Also Read - 'They can endlessly torture you:' England coach Tuchel stands by substitutions against Argentina in FIFA World Cup semis "Jawahar ran a Texas-based investment company called Swiftarc Capital LLC. He initially invested in a diverse array of securities, but in 2015, began investing client funds in a single investment, Philip Morris Pakistan (PMP). Eventually, 99% of client funds were consolidated into PMP. When the value of PMP declined, Jawahar did not tell investors, instead claiming that shares were trading at a much higher price and that they were making profits. Jawahar used money from new investors to repay older investors and to fuel an extravagant lifestyle that included flights on private planes, stays at luxury hotels and expensive outings at fancy restaurants," read the news release by the US attorney's office. What next for Jawahar? Jawahar, a 38-year-old investment advisor, accepted the three counts of wire fraud charges in January and was looking at a maximum sentence of 20 years as well as a $250,000 fine. The court, however, kept his sentence to 11 years and ordered him to pay “$31.35 million in restitution to victims.”

Kansas City Chiefs tight end Travis Kelce was named as a victim in an $35M Ponzi scheme run by Siddharth Jawahar, who was sentenced to 11 years in prison and ordered to pay $31.35M in restitution.

Chiefs tight end Travis Kelce named one of the victims in $35 million ponzi scheme

England coach Thomas Tuchel has spoken once again on his tactics in the loss against Argentina in the FIFA World Cup 2026. England, hoping to make their first FIFA World Cup Final appearance since 1966, lost the match 2-1 despite being ahead until the 85th minute. Tuchel defended his substitutions, in which he brought in defenders in place of forward players, which was seen as defensive and could not help England save the match. England finished third in the tournament with Tuchel's contract extended until Euro 2028.<h2>Tuchel speaks on tactics against Argentina in FIFA World Cup 2026</h2>“You can try to kill me here. But it’s my scar, it’s not your scar,” Tuchel said in a documentary on the England app. “No one is more hurt than me, no one wanted it more. They can endlessly torture you and think: ‘If I had done different substitutions, then we would have won the match.’ You just don’t know it.Also Read - <a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/pak-batter-rizwan-moves-to-court-after-being-questioned-by-cyber-crime-agency-1789618597573">Pak batter Rizwan moves to court after being questioned by cyber crime agency</a>“Of course you could [have made attacking changes]. No one knows what would have happened. We could have done it and maybe lost 2‑1 and could have gone: ‘Is he crazy? He finished the game against Norway with a back five, why didn’t he finish the game with five?’ I think from what I saw and the experience, the information and the level of craziness Argentina put in – change after change after change, it was just one offensive change after the other. That was my solution to the problem.“That’s what the intervention of a coach is. I try to help, you don’t implement anything for your ego or whatever. You just try to help.”<h2>What changes Tuchel had made in the Argentina game</h2>After Anthony Gordon put England ahead in the 55th minute, Tuchel replaced the winger with defender Ezri Konsa in the 72nd minute. Tuchel made two more changes after 10 minutes, replacing Reece James (defender) with Dan Burn (defender) and midfielder Declan Rice with defender Nico O'Reilly. The changes backfired as Enzo Fernandez scored the equalizer for Argentina two minutes later in the 85th minute before Lautaro Martinez scored the winner two minutes into injury time.Tuchel then tried to wrestle back into the game, replacing defenders John Stones and Djed Spence with strikers Ivan Toney and Marcus Rashford in the sixth minute of injury time, but it was too late for England.

England coach Thomas Tuchel defended his late defensive substitutions in their 2026 World Cup loss to Argentina, stating no one was more hurt by the result and he acted purely to help the team.

England coach Thomas Tuchel has spoken once again on his tactics in the loss against Argentina in the FIFA World Cup 2026. England, hoping to make their first FIFA World Cup Final appearance since 1966, lost the match 2-1 despite being ahead until the 85th minute. Tuchel defended his substitutions, in which he brought in defenders in place of forward players, which was seen as defensive and could not help England save the match. England finished third in the tournament with Tuchel's contract extended until Euro 2028. Tuchel speaks on tactics against Argentina in FIFA World Cup 2026 “You can try to kill me here. But it’s my scar, it’s not your scar,” Tuchel said in a documentary on the England app. “No one is more hurt than me, no one wanted it more. They can endlessly torture you and think: ‘If I had done different substitutions, then we would have won the match.’ You just don’t know it. Also Read - Pak batter Rizwan moves to court after being questioned by cyber crime agency “Of course you could [have made attacking changes]. No one knows what would have happened. We could have done it and maybe lost 2‑1 and could have gone: ‘Is he crazy? He finished the game against Norway with a back five, why didn’t he finish the game with five?’ I think from what I saw and the experience, the information and the level of craziness Argentina put in – change after change after change, it was just one offensive change after the other. That was my solution to the problem. “That’s what the intervention of a coach is. I try to help, you don’t implement anything for your ego or whatever. You just try to help.” What changes Tuchel had made in the Argentina game After Anthony Gordon put England ahead in the 55th minute, Tuchel replaced the winger with defender Ezri Konsa in the 72nd minute. Tuchel made two more changes after 10 minutes, replacing Reece James (defender) with Dan Burn (defender) and midfielder Declan Rice with defender Nico O'Reilly. The changes backfired as Enzo Fernandez scored the equalizer for Argentina two minutes later in the 85th minute before Lautaro Martinez scored the winner two minutes into injury time. Tuchel then tried to wrestle back into the game, replacing defenders John Stones and Djed Spence with strikers Ivan Toney and Marcus Rashford in the sixth minute of injury time, but it was too late for England.

England coach Thomas Tuchel defended his late defensive substitutions in their 2026 World Cup loss to Argentina, stating no one was more hurt by the result and he acted purely to help the team.

'They can endlessly torture you:' England coach Tuchel stands by substitutions against Argentina in FIFA World Cup semis

India women skipper Harmanpreet Kaur is by far the best skipper to have led the national cricket team with multiple titles under her name. Her most recent ICC trophy was the 2025 Women's ODI World Cup - the first ever for the team. The skipper, however, is 37 and would be around 40 by the time the next ODI World Cup comes. Former India player Diana Edulji, keeping Harman's age in mind, wants vice-captain and dashing opener Smriti Mandhana to be appointed India women's skipper at the earliest.<h2>Edulji wants Mandhana to replace Harman as skipper at earliest</h2>"We are holding back Smriti Mandhana for a long time. By the time the next World Cup comes along, Harman will be nearing 40, so let’s give a good run to Smriti and look at two youngsters as vice-captains. My humble request to Harman would be to let people ask why and not why not," Edulji said to Mid-Day.Also Read - <a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/pak-batter-rizwan-moves-to-court-after-being-questioned-by-cyber-crime-agency-1789618597573">Pak batter Rizwan moves to court after being questioned by cyber crime agency</a>Harman most recently led India to a Women's Asia Cup victory which was marred by a 'no-trophy ceremony,' as per the official stance of the Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI) against receiving the trophy from Asian Cricket Council (ACC) chief Mohsin Naqvi, who is also a federal minister in the Pakistan government. The BCCI adopted the same stance for the men's Asia Cup last year following the Pahalgam terror attack in India's Jammu and Kashmir by Pak-based terrorists.<h2>Harman's record as India skipper</h2>Harman made her India debut in 2009 and became captain of the side in 2013. Since then, she has led India in 51 ODIs and won 30 of them, the second most for India behind Mithali Raj's 89 wins in 155 matches. The record gets reversed in T20Is, where Harman has won 89 matches out of 152 she has led the side compared to 17 wins in 32 matches for Mithali. Harman's 89 wins as skipper in Women's T20Is are also the most for any captain in the format.

Former India player Diana Edulji wants vice-captain Smriti Mandhana to replace Harmanpreet Kaur as India women's skipper, citing Kaur's age ahead of the next ODI World Cup.

India women skipper Harmanpreet Kaur is by far the best skipper to have led the national cricket team with multiple titles under her name. Her most recent ICC trophy was the 2025 Women's ODI World Cup - the first ever for the team. The skipper, however, is 37 and would be around 40 by the time the next ODI World Cup comes. Former India player Diana Edulji, keeping Harman's age in mind, wants vice-captain and dashing opener Smriti Mandhana to be appointed India women's skipper at the earliest. Edulji wants Mandhana to replace Harman as skipper at earliest "We are holding back Smriti Mandhana for a long time. By the time the next World Cup comes along, Harman will be nearing 40, so let’s give a good run to Smriti and look at two youngsters as vice-captains. My humble request to Harman would be to let people ask why and not why not," Edulji said to Mid-Day. Also Read - Pak batter Rizwan moves to court after being questioned by cyber crime agency Harman most recently led India to a Women's Asia Cup victory which was marred by a 'no-trophy ceremony,' as per the official stance of the Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI) against receiving the trophy from Asian Cricket Council (ACC) chief Mohsin Naqvi, who is also a federal minister in the Pakistan government. The BCCI adopted the same stance for the men's Asia Cup last year following the Pahalgam terror attack in India's Jammu and Kashmir by Pak-based terrorists. Harman's record as India skipper Harman made her India debut in 2009 and became captain of the side in 2013. Since then, she has led India in 51 ODIs and won 30 of them, the second most for India behind Mithali Raj's 89 wins in 155 matches. The record gets reversed in T20Is, where Harman has won 89 matches out of 152 she has led the side compared to 17 wins in 32 matches for Mithali. Harman's 89 wins as skipper in Women's T20Is are also the most for any captain in the format.

Former India player Diana Edulji wants vice-captain Smriti Mandhana to replace Harmanpreet Kaur as India women's skipper, citing Kaur's age ahead of the next ODI World Cup.

Steve Smith says he is still traumatised by the infamous "Sandpapergate" ball-tampering scandal in 2018, but the former Australia skipper is undaunted about returning to South Africa for his first Test series since. The prolific batsman was sent home in disgrace, banned for a year and sacked as captain after conspiring to alter the ball using sandpaper during the third Test in Cape Town eight years ago.David Warner, considered the ringleader, was suspended for 12 months and stripped of all leadership roles while Cameron Bancroft was slapped with a nine-month ban.Also Read - <a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/india-squad-west-indies-2026-odi-t20i-auqib-nabi-mayank-yadav-1789573587522">Auqib Nabi earns maiden ODI call-up; Mayank returns for WI T20Is| check squads</a>Smith, preparing for the first Test in Durban on October 9 before the series moves to Gqeberha and Cape Town, said he still suffers flashbacks to a traumatic period of his life.He is haunted by memories of leaving Johannesburg airport, with cameras clicking furiously around him, and a harrowing Sydney press conference on his return when he broke down in tears."I'm not a big fan of cameras ... I get anxious around cameras to be honest," he told News Corp. in an interview published Thursday."That was a traumatic experience in my life and when I hear the flash of a camera it makes me revisit that in a way."The 24-48 hours of being told by James Sutherland (then-Cricket Australia chief executive) that I was getting banned for a year. That and going through the airport in Johannesburg getting absolutely mobbed, and then flying back and doing that press conference."I still have little flashbacks here and there of it."Smith bore the brunt of the scandal that is considered one of Australian sport's darkest moments, but bounced back emphatically.He smashed a superb century against England on his return and has gone from strength to strength, with 10,920 Test runs so far at an average of 56."It was certainly a difficult period, particularly the initial period a few days after," he said."The mental state I was in was not great. That's somewhere I'd like not to get to again, but I certainly learned from that and have been able to move forward with my life."I've tried to kind of erase a lot of 2018 and what happened," he added."I can't remember a lot about the series. I've tried to block most of it out of my memory bank."Smith has been back to South Africa for a white-ball series since 2018, but not for a Test and he is bracing for hostile crowds.But the 37-year-old is unperturbed, having negotiated multiple Ashes tours to England since 2018, where the Barmy Army abused him relentlessly."It's something I'm kind of used to. I've copped a lot at times away from home at different venues across my career and it's something that I take in my own stride," he said."I use it as motivation to try and go out and do well and try and take a positive from it."

Smith, preparing for the first Test in Durban on October 9 before the series moves to Gqeberha and Cape Town, said he still suffers flashbacks to a traumatic period of his life.

Steve Smith says he is still traumatised by the infamous "Sandpapergate" ball-tampering scandal in 2018, but the former Australia skipper is undaunted about returning to South Africa for his first Test series since. The prolific batsman was sent home in disgrace, banned for a year and sacked as captain after conspiring to alter the ball using sandpaper during the third Test in Cape Town eight years ago. David Warner, considered the ringleader, was suspended for 12 months and stripped of all leadership roles while Cameron Bancroft was slapped with a nine-month ban. Also Read - Auqib Nabi earns maiden ODI call-up; Mayank returns for WI T20Is| check squads Smith, preparing for the first Test in Durban on October 9 before the series moves to Gqeberha and Cape Town, said he still suffers flashbacks to a traumatic period of his life. He is haunted by memories of leaving Johannesburg airport, with cameras clicking furiously around him, and a harrowing Sydney press conference on his return when he broke down in tears. "I'm not a big fan of cameras ... I get anxious around cameras to be honest," he told News Corp. in an interview published Thursday. "That was a traumatic experience in my life and when I hear the flash of a camera it makes me revisit that in a way. "The 24-48 hours of being told by James Sutherland (then-Cricket Australia chief executive) that I was getting banned for a year. That and going through the airport in Johannesburg getting absolutely mobbed, and then flying back and doing that press conference. "I still have little flashbacks here and there of it." Smith bore the brunt of the scandal that is considered one of Australian sport's darkest moments, but bounced back emphatically. He smashed a superb century against England on his return and has gone from strength to strength, with 10,920 Test runs so far at an average of 56. "It was certainly a difficult period, particularly the initial period a few days after," he said. "The mental state I was in was not great. That's somewhere I'd like not to get to again, but I certainly learned from that and have been able to move forward with my life. "I've tried to kind of erase a lot of 2018 and what happened," he added. "I can't remember a lot about the series. I've tried to block most of it out of my memory bank." Smith has been back to South Africa for a white-ball series since 2018, but not for a Test and he is bracing for hostile crowds. But the 37-year-old is unperturbed, having negotiated multiple Ashes tours to England since 2018, where the Barmy Army abused him relentlessly. "It's something I'm kind of used to. I've copped a lot at times away from home at different venues across my career and it's something that I take in my own stride," he said. "I use it as motivation to try and go out and do well and try and take a positive from it."

Smith, preparing for the first Test in Durban on October 9 before the series moves to Gqeberha and Cape Town, said he still suffers flashbacks to a traumatic period of his life.

AUS vs SA: Steve Smith still gets 'little flashbacks' from sandpaper gate

The Pakistan Hockey Federation said on Wednesday (Sep 16) that the national team will not tour India for an Asian tournament due to security concerns and calling for the event to be moved to a "safer" country. Pakistan and five other nations were due to compete in the Asian Champions Trophy from October 27 to November 5 in Mohali and Jalandhar, India.&nbsp;The Indian and Pakistani teams have boycotted each other since New Delhi stalled all bilateral sporting ties in the wake of 2008 attacks on Mumbai, which it blamed on militants based across the border.&nbsp;&nbsp;Also read| <a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/pakistan-hockey-team-cleared-play-asian-champions-trophy-india-2026-1789388102868">Hockey: Pakistan cleared to play Asian Champions Trophy in India, confirms Punjab CM</a>&nbsp;Nuclear-armed arch-rivals India and Pakistan share a deep distrust, and last year fought a deadly four-day conflict triggered by an attack on tourists, mostly Hindus, in Kashmir.&nbsp;Mohyuddin Wani, president of the Pakistan Hockey Federation, said the decision not to tour India had been conveyed to the Asian Hockey Federation (AHF).&nbsp;"Considering the sensitive situation between the two countries, it is not advisable to send our players to India so we have demanded from the AHF to relocate the event to a safer country," Wani said in a statement.&nbsp;Pakistan also withdrew from last year's Asia Cup hockey event in India, citing security fears and tension at the border.&nbsp;Pakistan's hockey team last toured India for the 2023 Asian Champions Trophy, finishing fifth amongst six teams.

The Pakistan Hockey Federation has requested the AHF to relocate the 2026 Asian Champions Trophy or shift its matches outside India over safety concerns. 

The Pakistan Hockey Federation said on Wednesday (Sep 16) that the national team will not tour India for an Asian tournament due to security concerns and calling for the event to be moved to a "safer" country. Pakistan and five other nations were due to compete in the Asian Champions Trophy from October 27 to November 5 in Mohali and Jalandhar, India. The Indian and Pakistani teams have boycotted each other since New Delhi stalled all bilateral sporting ties in the wake of 2008 attacks on Mumbai, which it blamed on militants based across the border. Also read| Hockey: Pakistan cleared to play Asian Champions Trophy in India, confirms Punjab CM Nuclear-armed arch-rivals India and Pakistan share a deep distrust, and last year fought a deadly four-day conflict triggered by an attack on tourists, mostly Hindus, in Kashmir. Mohyuddin Wani, president of the Pakistan Hockey Federation, said the decision not to tour India had been conveyed to the Asian Hockey Federation (AHF). "Considering the sensitive situation between the two countries, it is not advisable to send our players to India so we have demanded from the AHF to relocate the event to a safer country," Wani said in a statement. Pakistan also withdrew from last year's Asia Cup hockey event in India, citing security fears and tension at the border. Pakistan's hockey team last toured India for the 2023 Asian Champions Trophy, finishing fifth amongst six teams.

The Pakistan Hockey Federation has requested the AHF to relocate the 2026 Asian Champions Trophy or shift its matches outside India over safety concerns.&nbsp;

Hockey: Pakistan urges AHF to move Asian Champions Trophy out of India over security concerns

No signs of Hardik Pandya yet, as BCCI’s selection committee named Jammu &amp; Kashmir seamer Auqib Nabi in India’s ODI squad for the three-match series against the West Indies. While Nabi and all-rounder Naman Dhir earned their maiden One-Day call-ups, ace seamer Jasprit Bumrah misses out, as he is part of the Asian Games squad. Bumrah, however, is also absent from the T20I squad, with Mohammed Siraj and Prasidh Krishna to lead the pace attack in his absence.

<blockquote class="twitter-tweet">🚨 News 🚨<a href="https://x.com/hashtag/TeamIndia?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#TeamIndia</a> ODI &amp; T20I squads announced for West Indies tour of India 2026, along with updated squad for Japan T20I &amp; Asian Games. More Details ▶️<a href="https://t.co/Lxx3Bz8Q14">https://t.co/Lxx3Bz8Q14</a> <a href="https://t.co/Y9RGlQ09XK">pic.twitter.com/Y9RGlQ09XK</a>&mdash; BCCI (@BCCI) <a href="https://x.com/BCCI/status/2100239440493052226?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">September 16, 2026</a></blockquote> <script async src="https://platform.x.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script>

In the batting department, CSK captain Ruturaj Gaikwad and veteran all-rounder Ravindra Jadeja have been picked, with the talismanic pair of Rohit Sharma and Virat Kohli also included in the ODI squad. Shubman Gill will lead the team, with KL Rahul playing as his deputy. Dhruv Jurel is named as the second keeper-batter, with all-rounder Nitish Kumar Reddy also making his comeback to the 50-over team.&nbsp;Opener Yashasvi Jaiswal has also found a place in the ODI team, with Ishan Kishan absent due to Asian Games commitments.<h3>India’s ODI squad for the West Indies Series –</h3>Shubman Gill [C], Rohit Sharma, Virat Kohli, Yashasvi Jaiswal, Ruturaj Gaikwad, KL Rahul [VC], Dhruv Jurel, Nitish Kumar Reddy, Ravindra Jadeja, Kuldeep Yadav, Prasidh Krishna, Gurnoor Brar, Mohammed Siraj, Auqib Nabi and Naman Dhir<h3>Mayank Yadav Returns to T20I Squad</h3>Ace pacer Mayank Yadav has been recalled to the 15-man T20I squad for the five-match T20I series against the West Indies. Arshdeep Singh and Prince Yadav will accompany him in the pace attack.&nbsp;Also read| <a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/ind-vs-afg-3rd-t20i-preview-vaibhav-sooryavanshi-predicted-xi-1789568918894">IND vs AFG 3rd T20I: Focus on Vaibhav Sooryavanshi as India look to test bench strength</a>&nbsp;India picked several all-rounders for the T20Is, including Washington Sundar, Axar Patel, Shivam Dube and Reddy, with Ravi Bishnoi and Kuldeep Yadav picked as specialist spinners.&nbsp;India’s T20I batting remains consistent, with Shreyas Iyer leading the side, and Abhishek Sharma, Vaibhav Sooryavanshi, Sanju Samson and Kishan among the top-order players. Tilak Varma also retains his place as the T20I mainstay.<h3>India’s T20I squad for the West Indies Series –</h3>Shreyas Iyer [C], Abhishek Sharma, Vaibhav Sooryavanshi, Ishan Kishan [WK], Sanju Samson [WK], Tilak Varma [VC], Shivam Dube, Kuldeep Yadav, Axar Patel, Washington Sundar, Ravi Bishnoi, Nitish Kumar Reddy, Arshdeep Singh, Prince Yadav and Mayank Yadav<h3>Series Schedule</h3>While India and the West Indies will play the three One-Dayers in Trivandrum (Sep 27), Guwahati (Sep 30) and New Chandigarh (Oct 3), the two teams will face off in five T20I matches in Lucknow (Oct 6), Ranchi (Oct 9), Indore (Oct 11), Hyderabad (Oct 14) and Bengaluru (Oct 17).

BCCI announces India's ODI & T20I squads for the West Indies series. Auqib Nabi and Naman Dhir earn maiden ODI call-ups, while Mayank Yadav returns for T20Is.

No signs of Hardik Pandya yet, as BCCI’s selection committee named Jammu & Kashmir seamer Auqib Nabi in India’s ODI squad for the three-match series against the West Indies. While Nabi and all-rounder Naman Dhir earned their maiden One-Day call-ups, ace seamer Jasprit Bumrah misses out, as he is part of the Asian Games squad. Bumrah, however, is also absent from the T20I squad, with Mohammed Siraj and Prasidh Krishna to lead the pace attack in his absence.

BCCI announces India's ODI &amp; T20I squads for the West Indies series. Auqib Nabi and Naman Dhir earn maiden ODI call-ups, while Mayank Yadav returns for T20Is.

No Pandya as Auqib Nabi earns maiden ODI call-up; Mayank returns for WI T20Is| check full squads

Argentina's great Lionel Messi deserves to win the 2026 Ballon d’Or ahead of favourites Kylian Mbappe and Lamine Yamal, said fellow Argentine and Atletico Madrid’s manager Diego Simeone. Messi captained Argentina to the final of the concluded FIFA World Cup in North America in July this year, but failed to help them cross the winning line. Though he and his team finished runners-up, Messi’s individual brilliance at 39 was short of breathtaking. In what was his last World Cup, Messi scored eight goals, the most he has scored in a single edition, and assisted four times to inspire his team to back-to-back finals.&nbsp;Truly impressed with Messi’s inspirational performance at the 48-team tournament, Simeone, who was in attendance for most of Argentina’s World Cup, backed Messi to take home his record ninth Ballon d’Or.&nbsp;While both Mbappe and Yamal have vouched for themselves, arguing why they were the best of the two and deserve to win the Ballon d’Or this year, Simeone said there is no doubt in his mind that Messi stands a better chance than the two superstars.&nbsp;“Messi, without a doubt,” Simeone told reporters ahead of Atletico’s La Liga match against Osasuna. “After the World Cup he had, at the age he is, no doubt at all. Messi.”&nbsp;For the record, Messi had the best World Cup in North America. After scoring six goals alone in the group stage games, including his maiden World Cup hat-trick, Messi scored twice in the knockouts before assisting twice in the crucial semifinal against England at Mexico’s Estadio Azteca. His late setup helped Argentina come from 1-0 behind to beat England 2-1 and cruise into the all-important final against Spain.&nbsp;In the final in New Jersey, neither Messi nor Argentina could do anything as Spain played perhaps “the perfect football” and scored an extra-time winner to become the world champions for the second time.&nbsp;Messi announced his international retirement on August 31 this year, days after his father, Jorge Messi, passed away. The Argentina Football Association (AFA), however, has named him in Argentina’s squad for three friendlies, but confirmed that his <a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/messi-set-to-play-in-farewell-match-on-october-6-in-argentina-vs-benin-friendly-1789526960174">farewell appearance</a> will be against Benin on October 6 at the Monumental in Buenos Aires. While Argentina will first face Bolivia in Córdoba on September 30 and Burkina Faso in Buenos Aires on October 3, Messi will feature only in the October 6 fixture, which will serve as his official farewell.&nbsp;Meanwhile, the 2026 Ballon d’Or ceremony is scheduled for October 26 in London, when the winner will be announced.

Diego Simeone backs 39-year-old Lionel Messi to win his ninth Ballon d'Or over Kylian Mbappé and Lamine Yamal after his 2026 World Cup run.

Argentina's great Lionel Messi deserves to win the 2026 Ballon d’Or ahead of favourites Kylian Mbappe and Lamine Yamal, said fellow Argentine and Atletico Madrid’s manager Diego Simeone. Messi captained Argentina to the final of the concluded FIFA World Cup in North America in July this year, but failed to help them cross the winning line. Though he and his team finished runners-up, Messi’s individual brilliance at 39 was short of breathtaking. In what was his last World Cup, Messi scored eight goals, the most he has scored in a single edition, and assisted four times to inspire his team to back-to-back finals. Truly impressed with Messi’s inspirational performance at the 48-team tournament, Simeone, who was in attendance for most of Argentina’s World Cup, backed Messi to take home his record ninth Ballon d’Or. While both Mbappe and Yamal have vouched for themselves, arguing why they were the best of the two and deserve to win the Ballon d’Or this year, Simeone said there is no doubt in his mind that Messi stands a better chance than the two superstars. “Messi, without a doubt,” Simeone told reporters ahead of Atletico’s La Liga match against Osasuna. “After the World Cup he had, at the age he is, no doubt at all. Messi.” For the record, Messi had the best World Cup in North America. After scoring six goals alone in the group stage games, including his maiden World Cup hat-trick, Messi scored twice in the knockouts before assisting twice in the crucial semifinal against England at Mexico’s Estadio Azteca. His late setup helped Argentina come from 1-0 behind to beat England 2-1 and cruise into the all-important final against Spain. In the final in New Jersey, neither Messi nor Argentina could do anything as Spain played perhaps “the perfect football” and scored an extra-time winner to become the world champions for the second time. Messi announced his international retirement on August 31 this year, days after his father, Jorge Messi, passed away. The Argentina Football Association (AFA), however, has named him in Argentina’s squad for three friendlies, but confirmed that his farewell appearance will be against Benin on October 6 at the Monumental in Buenos Aires. While Argentina will first face Bolivia in Córdoba on September 30 and Burkina Faso in Buenos Aires on October 3, Messi will feature only in the October 6 fixture, which will serve as his official farewell. Meanwhile, the 2026 Ballon d’Or ceremony is scheduled for October 26 in London, when the winner will be announced.

Diego Simeone backs 39-year-old Lionel Messi to win his ninth Ballon d'Or over Kylian Mbappé and Lamine Yamal after his 2026 World Cup run.

Lionel Messi for 2026 Ballon d’Or over Mbappe and Yamal, says Diego Simeone

Vaibhav Sooryavanshi will be in focus as India prepares for the third and final T20I against Afghanistan on Thursday (Sep 17) in Delhi. India has already won the series 2-0 and will aim to finish on a high with a clean sweep. With several players waiting for their chance, including the batting prodigy Vaibhav, the management could rope in the teenager for the dead rubber at the Arun Jaitley Stadium. Players like Washington Sundar and Yash Thakur could also find a place in the playing XI for the 3rd T20I against Afghanistan.&nbsp;On the other hand, Afghanistan continue to sweat over seamer Naveen-ul-Haq’s fitness ahead of the final match against India. Playing their A-team against Shreyas Iyer’s India, Afghanistan will aim to cause an upset in Delhi, preventing India from inflicting another series whitewash in what is Afghanistan’s home series in India.&nbsp;Also read| <a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/abhishek-sharma-climbs-no-2-t20i-rankings-ollie-robinson-3rd-test-rankings-1789558758664">Abhishek Sharma rises to No. 2 in T20Is; ENG’s Robinson 3rd after record Pakistan Tests</a>&nbsp;Returning to Sooryavanshi, the attacking left-hander could play his first home game in India, having already made his India debut during the away tour of England in July this year. Sooryavanshi showed promise with his limited outings in England but prospered more against Zimbabwe in the away series soon after.&nbsp;With both Sanju Samson and Abhishek Sharma delivering at the top in the two contested matches, scoring a fifty each, and Ishan Kishan continuing his purple patch against Afghanistan, finding a window for Sooryavanshi wouldn’t be the easiest task for the team management. While Gautam Gambhir decided to rest Samson during the England T20Is to give playing time to the batting prodigy, which also invited backlash from all quarters as India lost the five-match series 4-0, Gambhir could look at resting either of the two left-handers (Abhishek and Kishan) to make way for the newcomer.&nbsp;Meanwhile, Sundar could walk into the side in place of Shivam Dube, who hasn’t played a significant role in the two matches, with Yash Thakur also likely to play his third T20I.<h3>India’s Predicted Playing XI for 3rd T20I vs Afghanistan –</h3>Sanju Samson (wk), Vaibhav Sooryavanshi, Ishan Kishan, Shreyas Iyer (captain), Tilak Varma, Nitish Kumar Reddy, Washington Sundar, Axar Patel, Ravi Bishnoi, Yash Thakur and Arshdeep Singh

India look to test bench strength and give teenage prodigy Vaibhav Sooryavanshi a home debut in the 3rd T20I against Afghanistan in Delhi. Read the predicted XI.

Vaibhav Sooryavanshi will be in focus as India prepares for the third and final T20I against Afghanistan on Thursday (Sep 17) in Delhi. India has already won the series 2-0 and will aim to finish on a high with a clean sweep. With several players waiting for their chance, including the batting prodigy Vaibhav, the management could rope in the teenager for the dead rubber at the Arun Jaitley Stadium. Players like Washington Sundar and Yash Thakur could also find a place in the playing XI for the 3rd T20I against Afghanistan. On the other hand, Afghanistan continue to sweat over seamer Naveen-ul-Haq’s fitness ahead of the final match against India. Playing their A-team against Shreyas Iyer’s India, Afghanistan will aim to cause an upset in Delhi, preventing India from inflicting another series whitewash in what is Afghanistan’s home series in India. Also read| Abhishek Sharma rises to No. 2 in T20Is; ENG’s Robinson 3rd after record Pakistan Tests Returning to Sooryavanshi, the attacking left-hander could play his first home game in India, having already made his India debut during the away tour of England in July this year. Sooryavanshi showed promise with his limited outings in England but prospered more against Zimbabwe in the away series soon after. With both Sanju Samson and Abhishek Sharma delivering at the top in the two contested matches, scoring a fifty each, and Ishan Kishan continuing his purple patch against Afghanistan, finding a window for Sooryavanshi wouldn’t be the easiest task for the team management. While Gautam Gambhir decided to rest Samson during the England T20Is to give playing time to the batting prodigy, which also invited backlash from all quarters as India lost the five-match series 4-0, Gambhir could look at resting either of the two left-handers (Abhishek and Kishan) to make way for the newcomer. Meanwhile, Sundar could walk into the side in place of Shivam Dube, who hasn’t played a significant role in the two matches, with Yash Thakur also likely to play his third T20I. India’s Predicted Playing XI for 3rd T20I vs Afghanistan – Sanju Samson (wk), Vaibhav Sooryavanshi, Ishan Kishan, Shreyas Iyer (captain), Tilak Varma, Nitish Kumar Reddy, Washington Sundar, Axar Patel, Ravi Bishnoi, Yash Thakur and Arshdeep Singh

India look to test bench strength and give teenage prodigy Vaibhav Sooryavanshi a home debut in the 3rd T20I against Afghanistan in Delhi. Read the predicted XI.

IND vs AFG 3rd T20I: Focus on Vaibhav Sooryavanshi as India look to test bench strength

Months after Bangladesh refused to travel to India for the 2026 T20 World Cup, citing a security threat, a Bangladesh government probe found Asif Nazrul, the sports advisor during the interim government’s reign, to be solely responsible for Bangladesh’s withdrawal from the ICC tournament. A three-member committee released its findings on Tuesday (Sep 15), concluding that the BCB, at that time, lacked ‘independent strategic leadership, crisis diplomacy capability and long-term planning’ while dealing with this high-level issue.&nbsp;On January 24 -- 20 days before the start of the 20-team tournament in India and Sri Lanka – after weeks of drama involving the ICC, BCB, and the BCCI, the apex body replaced Bangladesh with the next top-ranked non-qualified team, Scotland, for the T20 World Cup. The decision came after a majority of the ICC board voted against Bangladesh’s participation after the BCB refused to send its team to India for their scheduled Group B matches.&nbsp;However, it all started after the BCCI ordered IPL franchise KKR to release seamer Mustafizur Rahman following regular attacks on minorities in Bangladesh.&nbsp;Also read| <a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/ipl-2027-auction-returns-to-india-wpl-2027-auction-date-kochi-1789556564684">India to host IPL 2027 auction; WPL 2027 auction set for late October in Kochi</a>&nbsp;Instead of discussing Mustafizur’s case internally, Nazrul -- effectively the country's sports minister at the time – took to his Facebook page, announcing BCB’s decision not to send its cricket team to India, fearing security concerns for the travelling entourage. The BCB also urged the ICC to move Bangladesh’s league matches to Sri Lanka, which the ICC denied, leading to Bangladesh’s exit from the tournament.&nbsp;In May, Aminul Haque -- Bangladesh's new sports minister – announced that a three-member committee, including Dr AKM Oli Ullah, additional secretary of the administration sub-division at the Ministry of Youth and Sports, former Bangladesh captain Habibul Bashar and Barrister Faisal Dastagir, would probe why Bangladesh pulled out of the 2026 T20 World Cup.&nbsp;The committee questioned several key members of Bangladesh Cricket, including its T20I captain Litton Das, Test captain Najmul Hossain Shanto, assistant coach Mohammad Salahuddin, BCB president Tamim Iqbal, chief executive Nizamuddin Chowdhury and former general secretary Syed Ashraful Huq, before concluding its decision.&nbsp;Almost everyone pointed fingers at Nazrul for being solely responsible for Bangladesh’s withdrawal from the T20 World Cup. Shanto, Litton and then-BCB president Aminul Islam met with Nazrul, a day after the ICC warned BCB of repercussions. The two captains claimed Nazrul went ahead with that decision despite players’ positive response to playing in India.&nbsp;Taking to his Facebook page two days before the elections, Nazrul said the government and the players decided not to travel to India for the T20 World Cup; he took a U-turn on his stance and admitted to taking the call on Bangladesh’s withdrawal from the competition in a social media post hours after the government report went public on Tuesday.&nbsp;"As the then Sports Minister, the decision not to travel to India for the T20 World Cup was primarily mine. I have stated this publicly on multiple occasions. Therefore, I fail to understand what prompted the Ministry of Sports to conduct a high-profile investigation into the matter and release the findings after all this time,” Nazrul wrote in a Facebook post.

A Bangladesh government inquiry has held former sports advisor Asif Nazrul solely responsible for the cricket team’s withdrawal from the 2026 T20 World Cup in India. Read the key findings.

Months after Bangladesh refused to travel to India for the 2026 T20 World Cup, citing a security threat, a Bangladesh government probe found Asif Nazrul, the sports advisor during the interim government’s reign, to be solely responsible for Bangladesh’s withdrawal from the ICC tournament. A three-member committee released its findings on Tuesday (Sep 15), concluding that the BCB, at that time, lacked ‘independent strategic leadership, crisis diplomacy capability and long-term planning’ while dealing with this high-level issue. On January 24 -- 20 days before the start of the 20-team tournament in India and Sri Lanka – after weeks of drama involving the ICC, BCB, and the BCCI, the apex body replaced Bangladesh with the next top-ranked non-qualified team, Scotland, for the T20 World Cup. The decision came after a majority of the ICC board voted against Bangladesh’s participation after the BCB refused to send its team to India for their scheduled Group B matches. However, it all started after the BCCI ordered IPL franchise KKR to release seamer Mustafizur Rahman following regular attacks on minorities in Bangladesh. Also read| India to host IPL 2027 auction; WPL 2027 auction set for late October in Kochi Instead of discussing Mustafizur’s case internally, Nazrul -- effectively the country's sports minister at the time – took to his Facebook page, announcing BCB’s decision not to send its cricket team to India, fearing security concerns for the travelling entourage. The BCB also urged the ICC to move Bangladesh’s league matches to Sri Lanka, which the ICC denied, leading to Bangladesh’s exit from the tournament. In May, Aminul Haque -- Bangladesh's new sports minister – announced that a three-member committee, including Dr AKM Oli Ullah, additional secretary of the administration sub-division at the Ministry of Youth and Sports, former Bangladesh captain Habibul Bashar and Barrister Faisal Dastagir, would probe why Bangladesh pulled out of the 2026 T20 World Cup. The committee questioned several key members of Bangladesh Cricket, including its T20I captain Litton Das, Test captain Najmul Hossain Shanto, assistant coach Mohammad Salahuddin, BCB president Tamim Iqbal, chief executive Nizamuddin Chowdhury and former general secretary Syed Ashraful Huq, before concluding its decision. Almost everyone pointed fingers at Nazrul for being solely responsible for Bangladesh’s withdrawal from the T20 World Cup. Shanto, Litton and then-BCB president Aminul Islam met with Nazrul, a day after the ICC warned BCB of repercussions. The two captains claimed Nazrul went ahead with that decision despite players’ positive response to playing in India. Taking to his Facebook page two days before the elections, Nazrul said the government and the players decided not to travel to India for the T20 World Cup; he took a U-turn on his stance and admitted to taking the call on Bangladesh’s withdrawal from the competition in a social media post hours after the government report went public on Tuesday. "As the then Sports Minister, the decision not to travel to India for the T20 World Cup was primarily mine. I have stated this publicly on multiple occasions. Therefore, I fail to understand what prompted the Ministry of Sports to conduct a high-profile investigation into the matter and release the findings after all this time,” Nazrul wrote in a Facebook post.

A Bangladesh government inquiry has held former sports advisor Asif Nazrul solely responsible for the cricket team’s withdrawal from the 2026 T20 World Cup in India. Read the key findings.

Govt probe holds Asif Nazrul solely responsible for Bangladesh’s 2026 T20 World Cup withdrawal

Kevin Pietersen’s impact on England’s T20I cricket was on display in the series opener against Sri Lanka, when they hammered the Lankans by 119 runs at the Rose Bowl in Southampton. Much of the credit goes to captain Harry Brook, who smashed the joint-quickest T20I hundred in just 42 balls, taking inspiration from the dressing-room hero himself, KP. There was no stopping Brook, who clobbered six sixes and 10 fours in his explosive innings, with his batting idol watching from the sidelines.&nbsp;Speaking highly of Pietersen, whose 2005 Ashes highlights package inspired Brook to his second T20I hundred, England’s white-ball captain said, "Obviously we haven't had too much time together so far, but he's a great figure to have in the changing room -- the type of player he was, he looked at batting slightly differently, in a similar way to me as well," Brook said of Pietersen. "He always wants to try and look to put the bowlers under pressure, and I'm looking forward to working with him a lot more."&nbsp;"I was actually watching his (Pietersen's) highlights earlier, funnily enough," said Brook. "He was a phenomenal player. The way he accessed different areas of the ground made it really tricky to captain and bowl to, and I'm looking forward to having a lot of conversations about that."&nbsp;"That's not just for white-ball cricket, that's for Test cricket as well. Hopefully, he can have a big impact on my career.&nbsp;"He's a hero to a lot of players in that changing room. We all grew up watching him and admiring his work, and it's just awesome to have a man of his calibre in the changing room,” Brook added.&nbsp;Also read| <a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/abhishek-sharma-climbs-no-2-t20i-rankings-ollie-robinson-3rd-test-rankings-1789558758664">Abhishek Sharma rises to No. 2 in T20Is; ENG’s Robinson 3rd after record Pakistan Tests</a>&nbsp;Brook was on song on Tuesday evening in Southampton, as was veteran Jos Buttler, with the two adding 128 runs for the second wicket. While Brook remained unbeaten on 114 off just 49 balls, Buttler missed his 100 by 20 runs. Brook’s brilliance, which saw him smash three sixes and three fours in Dunith Wellalage’s second overs, left his former Test captain Ben Stokes going bonkers over him.&nbsp;Stokes took to his social media handle X to praise Brook, and compared him to Pietersen, who joined Brendon McCullum’s white-ball coaching staff as a specialist mentor for the ODI World Cup next year.&nbsp;“I don’t even think the genius of KP could come close to what Harry Brook has talent-wise.&nbsp;Is it really that hard to just sit back and admire these players for what they are, on the good days and the bad days, and stop berating them for doing things that we would never, ever, ever even think of doing because we simply aren’t on their level to think that way?&nbsp;You are an absolute freak, Harry.&nbsp;You’re mint to watch. 🤌🔥,” Stokes wrote on his social media handle.

<blockquote class="twitter-tweet">I don’t even think the genius of KP could come close to what Harry Brook has talent-wise.

Is it really that hard to just sit back and admire these players for what they are, on the good days and the bad days, and stop berating them for doing things that we would never, ever, ever even think of doing because we simply aren’t on their level to think that way?

You are an absolute freak, Harry. 

You’re mint to watch. 🤌🔥&mdash; Ben Stokes (@benstokes38) <a href="https://x.com/benstokes38/status/2099940730592723373?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">September 15, 2026</a></blockquote>
<script async src="https://platform.x.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script>

Harry Brook smashed a joint-record 42-ball T20I hundred against Sri Lanka in Southampton, revealing how watching 'hero' Kevin Pietersen’s highlights inspired his explosive knock.

Kevin Pietersen’s impact on England’s T20I cricket was on display in the series opener against Sri Lanka, when they hammered the Lankans by 119 runs at the Rose Bowl in Southampton. Much of the credit goes to captain Harry Brook, who smashed the joint-quickest T20I hundred in just 42 balls, taking inspiration from the dressing-room hero himself, KP. There was no stopping Brook, who clobbered six sixes and 10 fours in his explosive innings, with his batting idol watching from the sidelines. Speaking highly of Pietersen, whose 2005 Ashes highlights package inspired Brook to his second T20I hundred, England’s white-ball captain said, "Obviously we haven't had too much time together so far, but he's a great figure to have in the changing room -- the type of player he was, he looked at batting slightly differently, in a similar way to me as well," Brook said of Pietersen. "He always wants to try and look to put the bowlers under pressure, and I'm looking forward to working with him a lot more." "I was actually watching his (Pietersen's) highlights earlier, funnily enough," said Brook. "He was a phenomenal player. The way he accessed different areas of the ground made it really tricky to captain and bowl to, and I'm looking forward to having a lot of conversations about that." "That's not just for white-ball cricket, that's for Test cricket as well. Hopefully, he can have a big impact on my career. "He's a hero to a lot of players in that changing room. We all grew up watching him and admiring his work, and it's just awesome to have a man of his calibre in the changing room,” Brook added. Also read| Abhishek Sharma rises to No. 2 in T20Is; ENG’s Robinson 3rd after record Pakistan Tests Brook was on song on Tuesday evening in Southampton, as was veteran Jos Buttler, with the two adding 128 runs for the second wicket. While Brook remained unbeaten on 114 off just 49 balls, Buttler missed his 100 by 20 runs. Brook’s brilliance, which saw him smash three sixes and three fours in Dunith Wellalage’s second overs, left his former Test captain Ben Stokes going bonkers over him. Stokes took to his social media handle X to praise Brook, and compared him to Pietersen, who joined Brendon McCullum’s white-ball coaching staff as a specialist mentor for the ODI World Cup next year. “I don’t even think the genius of KP could come close to what Harry Brook has talent-wise. Is it really that hard to just sit back and admire these players for what they are, on the good days and the bad days, and stop berating them for doing things that we would never, ever, ever even think of doing because we simply aren’t on their level to think that way? You are an absolute freak, Harry. You’re mint to watch. 🤌🔥,” Stokes wrote on his social media handle.

Harry Brook smashed a joint-record 42-ball T20I hundred against Sri Lanka in Southampton, revealing how watching 'hero' Kevin Pietersen’s highlights inspired his explosive knock.

Harry Brook eager to learn from 'hero' Kevin Pietersen after Southampton T20I ton

Abhishek Sharma climbed one place to the second spot in the updated T20I rankings for batters following blistering starts in two contested T20Is against Afghanistan in the ongoing series. While he scored a match-winning 82 during the run chase in the series opener in Delhi, he set the stage for a successful chase in the next match with his attacking 39 at the top. India won both matches and clinched the three-match series 2-0. Sharma replaced Pakistan opener Sahibzada Farhan, who slipped to third in the rankings, with Ishan Kishan ruling at the top with 913 rating points.&nbsp;England Test quick Ollie Robinson, who bagged 21 wickets in three Tests against Pakistan at home, attained his career-best ranking of No. 3. His fellow seamer Josh Tongue, who picked up 19 wickets across six innings against Pakistan, jumped two places to No. 11 – his best Test ranking thus far.&nbsp;Meanwhile, Abhishek’s opening partner Sanju Samson also made gains after his quickfire 57 against Afghanistan in the second T20I on Tuesday, rising four places to No. 30 in the updated rankings for the batters.&nbsp;Also read| <a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/ipl-2027-auction-returns-to-india-wpl-2027-auction-date-kochi-1789556564684">India to host IPL 2027 auction; WPL 2027 auction set for late October in Kochi</a>&nbsp;Among the T20I bowlers, Varun Chakaravarthy, who returned with figures of 1/16 in the first T20I before getting ruled out of the series with a side strain, moved up two places to No. 5. Ace quick Jasprit Bumrah, who returned to the T20I team for the first time since the T20 World Cup triumph in March 2026, returned to the top 10, jumping seven places. Arshdeep Singh, India’s leading T20I wicket-taker, gained a significant rise, climbing 11 places to No. 14, with Axar Patel rising six spots to No. 27.&nbsp;Afghanistan all-rounders Mohammad Nabi and Azmatullah Omarzai also jumped places in the all-rounders’ category following a gritty showing with both bat and ball in the first two T20Is against India. Omarzai jumped two places to No. 5, and Nabi climbed up one spot to No. 8.<h2>Test Rankings: Robinson Hits Career-High</h2>While the English quick enjoyed his most successful series with the ball against Pakistan, he also jumped 11 places to No. 13 in the Test all-rounders category following his exploits with the bat in the final Test in Birmingham, where he scored a fifty.&nbsp;Among the Test batters, Pakistan captain Babar Azam rose two spots to No. 13, seasoned batter Shan Masood climbed four spots to No. 37 and England keeper-batter Jamie Smith moved three spots to No. 20.

Abhishek Sharma climbs to No. 2 in the latest ICC T20I Batting Rankings. Meanwhile, England's Ollie Robinson jumps to a career-best 3rd in Test bowling. Get all the ICC ranking updates here. 

Abhishek Sharma climbed one place to the second spot in the updated T20I rankings for batters following blistering starts in two contested T20Is against Afghanistan in the ongoing series. While he scored a match-winning 82 during the run chase in the series opener in Delhi, he set the stage for a successful chase in the next match with his attacking 39 at the top. India won both matches and clinched the three-match series 2-0. Sharma replaced Pakistan opener Sahibzada Farhan, who slipped to third in the rankings, with Ishan Kishan ruling at the top with 913 rating points. England Test quick Ollie Robinson, who bagged 21 wickets in three Tests against Pakistan at home, attained his career-best ranking of No. 3. His fellow seamer Josh Tongue, who picked up 19 wickets across six innings against Pakistan, jumped two places to No. 11 – his best Test ranking thus far. Meanwhile, Abhishek’s opening partner Sanju Samson also made gains after his quickfire 57 against Afghanistan in the second T20I on Tuesday, rising four places to No. 30 in the updated rankings for the batters. Also read| India to host IPL 2027 auction; WPL 2027 auction set for late October in Kochi Among the T20I bowlers, Varun Chakaravarthy, who returned with figures of 1/16 in the first T20I before getting ruled out of the series with a side strain, moved up two places to No. 5. Ace quick Jasprit Bumrah, who returned to the T20I team for the first time since the T20 World Cup triumph in March 2026, returned to the top 10, jumping seven places. Arshdeep Singh, India’s leading T20I wicket-taker, gained a significant rise, climbing 11 places to No. 14, with Axar Patel rising six spots to No. 27. Afghanistan all-rounders Mohammad Nabi and Azmatullah Omarzai also jumped places in the all-rounders’ category following a gritty showing with both bat and ball in the first two T20Is against India. Omarzai jumped two places to No. 5, and Nabi climbed up one spot to No. 8. Test Rankings: Robinson Hits Career-High While the English quick enjoyed his most successful series with the ball against Pakistan, he also jumped 11 places to No. 13 in the Test all-rounders category following his exploits with the bat in the final Test in Birmingham, where he scored a fifty. Among the Test batters, Pakistan captain Babar Azam rose two spots to No. 13, seasoned batter Shan Masood climbed four spots to No. 37 and England keeper-batter Jamie Smith moved three spots to No. 20.

Abhishek Sharma climbs to No. 2 in the latest ICC T20I Batting Rankings. Meanwhile, England's Ollie Robinson jumps to a career-best 3rd in Test bowling. Get all the ICC ranking updates here.&nbsp;

Abhishek Sharma rises to No. 2 in T20Is; ENG’s Robinson 3rd after record Pakistan Tests

The BCCI has decided to host the IPL 2027 mini-auction in India, three years after staging it overseas. Kochi hosted the IPL 2023 auction; since then, Dubai (2024), Jeddah (2025), and Abu Dhabi (2026) have hosted IPL auctions, respectively. Meanwhile, the WPL 2027 auction will be held in late October in Kochi, with these decisions among the key takeaways from the IPL Governing Council (GC) meeting held on Tuesday (Sep 15). The latest report also suggests that the 2028 IPL auction, which will be a mega auction, would likely be staged overseas.&nbsp;The BCCI and IPL’s decision to bring back the IPL auction to India was taken after assurances given to all franchises, who expressed reservations about logistical and operational challenges of travelling overseas with their delegations for mini-auctions. The BCCI members have also considered all views during last year’s auction in Abu Dhabi.&nbsp;The GC, however, confirmed it is currently evaluating Indian cities to finalise the mini-auction venue.&nbsp;Also read| <a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/ex-india-all-rounder-yuvraj-singh-wants-india-to-avoid-massive-changes-before-odi-world-cup-2027-1789529543148">Ex-India all-rounder Yuvraj Singh wants India to avoid 'massive changes' before ODI World Cup 2027</a>&nbsp;The venue will be decided based on accommodation availability for the franchises and their delegations. With the winter season (October to December) being the wedding season in India, five-star hotels in all major cities are likely to be pre-occupied, and the GC would pick the venue accordingly. The BCCI requires more than 100 rooms for two nights for the mini-auction.<h2>Kochi to host WPL 2027 Auction</h2>Kochi has been handpicked as the venue for the WPL 2027 auction, to be held on October 28, with the information formally communicated to all five&nbsp;participating teams. All teams have a window until September 28 to decide on the retention and release of their players.&nbsp;Each squad can have up to 18 players, of which a maximum of six can be foreign players. The salary cap for the current cycle is INR 15 crore.&nbsp;Meanwhile, Mumbai and Vadodara are finalised as venues for the next edition, to be staged from January 14 to February 7 next year. Although suggestions of holding some matches in Varanasi have also been discussed, where a new cricket stadium is being built, chances of that happening at this stage are remote.

The BCCI has decided to bring the IPL 2027 mini-auction back to India after three overseas editions. Meanwhile, the WPL 2027 auction is set for October 28 in Kochi. Get the latest IPL GC meeting updates. 

The BCCI has decided to host the IPL 2027 mini-auction in India, three years after staging it overseas. Kochi hosted the IPL 2023 auction; since then, Dubai (2024), Jeddah (2025), and Abu Dhabi (2026) have hosted IPL auctions, respectively. Meanwhile, the WPL 2027 auction will be held in late October in Kochi, with these decisions among the key takeaways from the IPL Governing Council (GC) meeting held on Tuesday (Sep 15). The latest report also suggests that the 2028 IPL auction, which will be a mega auction, would likely be staged overseas. The BCCI and IPL’s decision to bring back the IPL auction to India was taken after assurances given to all franchises, who expressed reservations about logistical and operational challenges of travelling overseas with their delegations for mini-auctions. The BCCI members have also considered all views during last year’s auction in Abu Dhabi. The GC, however, confirmed it is currently evaluating Indian cities to finalise the mini-auction venue. Also read| Ex-India all-rounder Yuvraj Singh wants India to avoid 'massive changes' before ODI World Cup 2027 The venue will be decided based on accommodation availability for the franchises and their delegations. With the winter season (October to December) being the wedding season in India, five-star hotels in all major cities are likely to be pre-occupied, and the GC would pick the venue accordingly. The BCCI requires more than 100 rooms for two nights for the mini-auction. Kochi to host WPL 2027 Auction Kochi has been handpicked as the venue for the WPL 2027 auction, to be held on October 28, with the information formally communicated to all five participating teams. All teams have a window until September 28 to decide on the retention and release of their players. Each squad can have up to 18 players, of which a maximum of six can be foreign players. The salary cap for the current cycle is INR 15 crore. Meanwhile, Mumbai and Vadodara are finalised as venues for the next edition, to be staged from January 14 to February 7 next year. Although suggestions of holding some matches in Varanasi have also been discussed, where a new cricket stadium is being built, chances of that happening at this stage are remote.

The BCCI has decided to bring the IPL 2027 mini-auction back to India after three overseas editions. Meanwhile, the WPL 2027 auction is set for October 28 in Kochi. Get the latest IPL GC meeting updates.&nbsp;

India to host IPL 2027 auction; WPL 2027 auction set for late October in Kochi

India is planning to bring Formula 1 back to the country after the iconic motorsports event was held more than a decade ago back in 2013. The announcement was made by Sports Minister Mansukh Mandaviya on Tuesday (Sep 15). Mandaviya also announced a Task Force for the same which will exclusively focus on bringing back the Formula 1 race to India. The Task Force will be led by NITI Aayog's director and advisor Yugal Kishore Joshi. The Task Force, which will have 10 members, will also include Joint Secretary (Sports) Kunal and Federation of Motor Sports Clubs of India (FMSCI) President as well. Currently, Arindam Ghosh is the FMSCI president with the elections set to be held later this month during the body's Annual General Meeting (AGM).<h2>How India is planning to bring back F1?</h2>The Sports Minister revealed that India is planning to host an F1 race in the country in 2028 and said: "The Terms of reference of this committee are suggesting comprehensive ways for sustainable growth of motorsports in India, a holistic coordinated roadmap for revival of Formula 1 so that we can host a race in 2028.Also Read - <a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/dodgers-beat-reds-for-playoff-berth-in-bid-for-third-consecutive-world-series-1789440431272">Dodgers beat Reds for playoff berth in bid for third consecutive World Series</a>"It will also carry out detailed assessment of challenges that would come in the way of reviving motorsports and identify policy interventions that would be needed for this," he added.<h2>Why F1 stopped hosting races in India?</h2>In 2013, Buddh International Circuit in Greater Noida near capital New Delhi hosted the Indian Grand Prix. The global body, however, dropped the race post 2013 because of taxation issues.The sports minister addressed the taxation concerns and said: "Taxation issues will be considered along with the possibilities related to Public-Private Partnership (PPP) models."The Task Force will also involve people from the Central Board of Indirect Taxes and Customs (CBIC) and the Central Board of Direct Taxes (CBDT) to address the taxation issue as well.

Sports Minister Mansukh Mandaviya announced a 10-member Task Force, led by NITI Aayog's Yugal Kishore Joshi, to resolve taxation issues and work toward bringing Formula 1 back to India by 2028.

India is planning to bring Formula 1 back to the country after the iconic motorsports event was held more than a decade ago back in 2013. The announcement was made by Sports Minister Mansukh Mandaviya on Tuesday (Sep 15). Mandaviya also announced a Task Force for the same which will exclusively focus on bringing back the Formula 1 race to India. The Task Force will be led by NITI Aayog's director and advisor Yugal Kishore Joshi. The Task Force, which will have 10 members, will also include Joint Secretary (Sports) Kunal and Federation of Motor Sports Clubs of India (FMSCI) President as well. Currently, Arindam Ghosh is the FMSCI president with the elections set to be held later this month during the body's Annual General Meeting (AGM). How India is planning to bring back F1? The Sports Minister revealed that India is planning to host an F1 race in the country in 2028 and said: "The Terms of reference of this committee are suggesting comprehensive ways for sustainable growth of motorsports in India, a holistic coordinated roadmap for revival of Formula 1 so that we can host a race in 2028. Also Read - Dodgers beat Reds for playoff berth in bid for third consecutive World Series "It will also carry out detailed assessment of challenges that would come in the way of reviving motorsports and identify policy interventions that would be needed for this," he added. Why F1 stopped hosting races in India? In 2013, Buddh International Circuit in Greater Noida near capital New Delhi hosted the Indian Grand Prix. The global body, however, dropped the race post 2013 because of taxation issues. The sports minister addressed the taxation concerns and said: "Taxation issues will be considered along with the possibilities related to Public-Private Partnership (PPP) models." The Task Force will also involve people from the Central Board of Indirect Taxes and Customs (CBIC) and the Central Board of Direct Taxes (CBDT) to address the taxation issue as well.

Sports Minister Mansukh Mandaviya announced a 10-member Task Force, led by NITI Aayog's Yugal Kishore Joshi, to resolve taxation issues and work toward bringing Formula 1 back to India by 2028.

Formula 1 to be back in India in 2028? Sport Minister announces Task Force for revival of motor sport

Raheem Sterling, the former England winger, has pleaded guilty to a dangerous driving charge involving a crash in his Lamborghini on May 28. Sterling, who has played for Chelsea, Manchester City, and most recently Feyenoord, was arrested following the single-vehicle collision and has been disqualified from driving until November 25 while awaiting sentencing. He heard the charges before Basingstoke Magistrates' Court on Tuesday (Sep 15), which involved driving recklessly on the M25 and M3 motorways and possession of nitrous oxide gas (known as 'laughing gas') for wrongful inhalation, as well as failing to provide a specimen. Police body-cam footage of him sitting in the car while being questioned and arrested has also surfaced.<h2>Raheem Sterling Reckless Driving Case Timeline</h2>The former England footballer was reported by a concerned motorist while driving on the southbound carriageway of the M3 motorway on May 28. He was arrested and later released. Dashcam footage provided by a witness showed Sterling's car swerving across the road.

<blockquote class="twitter-tweet" data-media-max-width="560">Footballer Raheem Stirling was caught and has pled guilty after being arrested with balloon canisters in his car after a crash in his Lamborghini. <a href="https://t.co/6dIyLnW3at">pic.twitter.com/6dIyLnW3at</a>&mdash; Scarcity News (@ScarcityStudios) <a href="https://x.com/ScarcityStudios/status/2099900951037362319?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">September 15, 2026</a></blockquote> <script async src="https://platform.x.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script>

Prosecutor Simon Jones told the court, as reported by The Guardian, that one witness had "genuine concerns the driver might kill someone" and described the footballer's driving as "absolutely horrendous."Also Read - <a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/messi-set-to-play-in-farewell-match-on-october-6-in-argentina-vs-benin-friendly-1789526960174">Messi set to play in farewell match on October 6 in Argentina vs Benin friendly</a>"As she moved past the vehicle she thought the airbag had been deployed, it was a large white deflated balloon,” Jones said. “She had no idea if the driver could see ahead."<h2>What next for Sterling?</h2>The England footballer now awaits a decision in his case and he could face up to 24 months in prison. A sentence of 12 to 18 months is more likely which eventually could end up being suspended. Sterling has 20 goals in 82 appearances for England. Throughout his club career, he scored 91 goals in 225 matches for Manchester City, winning four Premier League titles, and has also played for Liverpool, Chelsea, Arsenal, and Feyenoord.

Former England winger Raheem Sterling pleaded guilty to dangerous driving after crashing his Lamborghini on May 28. Awaiting sentencing on Nov 25, he faces up to 24 months in prison.

Raheem Sterling, the former England winger, has pleaded guilty to a dangerous driving charge involving a crash in his Lamborghini on May 28. Sterling, who has played for Chelsea, Manchester City, and most recently Feyenoord, was arrested following the single-vehicle collision and has been disqualified from driving until November 25 while awaiting sentencing. He heard the charges before Basingstoke Magistrates' Court on Tuesday (Sep 15), which involved driving recklessly on the M25 and M3 motorways and possession of nitrous oxide gas (known as 'laughing gas') for wrongful inhalation, as well as failing to provide a specimen. Police body-cam footage of him sitting in the car while being questioned and arrested has also surfaced. Raheem Sterling Reckless Driving Case Timeline The former England footballer was reported by a concerned motorist while driving on the southbound carriageway of the M3 motorway on May 28. He was arrested and later released. Dashcam footage provided by a witness showed Sterling's car swerving across the road.

Former England winger Raheem Sterling pleaded guilty to dangerous driving after crashing his Lamborghini on May 28. Awaiting sentencing on Nov 25, he faces up to 24 months in prison.

Ex-England footballer Raheem Sterling pleads guilty in reckless driving and crashing his Lamborghini

Sanju Samson may have helped India defend the T20 World Cup in March, but the batter has been under constant scrutiny for his form since then. His lack of runs in IPL 2026 and in subsequent T20I matches coincided with the rise of Vaibhav Sooryavanshi, who won the Orange Cap in IPL 2026 for scoring the most runs (776). Since the IPL, India have played three T20I series — against Ireland, England, and Zimbabwe - while the fourth series against Afghanistan is currently underway. Across these series, Samson has featured in six matches: two each against Ireland, England, and Afghanistan.Also Read - <a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/ex-india-all-rounder-yuvraj-singh-wants-india-to-avoid-massive-changes-before-odi-world-cup-2027-1789529543148">Ex-India all-rounder Yuvraj Singh wants India to avoid 'massive changes' before ODI World Cup 2027</a>He was rested for the Zimbabwe series and was dropped from the last three of five T20Is against England in favor of Sooryavanshi. His best T20I score since the 2026 T20 World Cup is 57, which came against Afghanistan in the second T20I on Tuesday (September 15) in New Delhi. The batter, however, is aware of the challenges his lack of runs poses and that Sooryavanshi, at 15 years of age, is waiting in the wings for his turn.<h2>Samson opens up on competition with Sooryavanshi</h2>"A 15-year-old kid is coming on the back of scoring 700–800 runs (in the IPL). The tournament I did well at (T20 World Cup) was before that. His performance was more recent. He had to come in, in some manner or another. I did not perform in two or three games and he was in form, and we wanted to win games in that series. It was very understandable from a leadership point of view. I have been in this situation as an IPL captain. I have also taken tough calls," Samson said after the second T20I against Afghanistan regarding Sooryavanshi being picked ahead of him in the England T20Is.The batter also addressed the online criticism regarding his lack of runs, sharing: "Being an Indian cricketer, it’s not easy to face failures, but that’s where my experience comes in. I try to shut out the noise and be confident. I come out and still keep scoring at a high strike rate — even taking chances, knowing that if I fail again, I’ll be facing a lot of noise again. But that’s the way we are built in Indian cricket, and I just go out there and try to contribute."<h2>What Next for Samson and India?</h2>After his match-winning 57 off 22 balls, Samson is almost certain to play the third and final T20I against Afghanistan on September 19. Following the series, India travel to Japan for the Asian Games, where Samson has been included in the squad.

Despite form struggles and pressure from 15-year-old IPL star Vaibhav Sooryavanshi, Sanju Samson's match-winning 57 vs Afghanistan may have secured his T20 spot ahead of the upcoming Asian Games.

Sanju Samson may have helped India defend the T20 World Cup in March, but the batter has been under constant scrutiny for his form since then. His lack of runs in IPL 2026 and in subsequent T20I matches coincided with the rise of Vaibhav Sooryavanshi, who won the Orange Cap in IPL 2026 for scoring the most runs (776). Since the IPL, India have played three T20I series — against Ireland, England, and Zimbabwe - while the fourth series against Afghanistan is currently underway. Across these series, Samson has featured in six matches: two each against Ireland, England, and Afghanistan. Also Read - Ex-India all-rounder Yuvraj Singh wants India to avoid 'massive changes' before ODI World Cup 2027 He was rested for the Zimbabwe series and was dropped from the last three of five T20Is against England in favor of Sooryavanshi. His best T20I score since the 2026 T20 World Cup is 57, which came against Afghanistan in the second T20I on Tuesday (September 15) in New Delhi. The batter, however, is aware of the challenges his lack of runs poses and that Sooryavanshi, at 15 years of age, is waiting in the wings for his turn. Samson opens up on competition with Sooryavanshi "A 15-year-old kid is coming on the back of scoring 700–800 runs (in the IPL). The tournament I did well at (T20 World Cup) was before that. His performance was more recent. He had to come in, in some manner or another. I did not perform in two or three games and he was in form, and we wanted to win games in that series. It was very understandable from a leadership point of view. I have been in this situation as an IPL captain. I have also taken tough calls," Samson said after the second T20I against Afghanistan regarding Sooryavanshi being picked ahead of him in the England T20Is. The batter also addressed the online criticism regarding his lack of runs, sharing: "Being an Indian cricketer, it’s not easy to face failures, but that’s where my experience comes in. I try to shut out the noise and be confident. I come out and still keep scoring at a high strike rate — even taking chances, knowing that if I fail again, I’ll be facing a lot of noise again. But that’s the way we are built in Indian cricket, and I just go out there and try to contribute." What Next for Samson and India? After his match-winning 57 off 22 balls, Samson is almost certain to play the third and final T20I against Afghanistan on September 19. Following the series, India travel to Japan for the Asian Games, where Samson has been included in the squad.

Despite form struggles and pressure from 15-year-old IPL star Vaibhav Sooryavanshi, Sanju Samson's match-winning 57 vs Afghanistan may have secured his T20 spot ahead of the upcoming Asian Games.

'He had to come in': Samson opens up on competition from Vaibhav Sooryavanshi for India T20I opening spot

Days after Sydney Sweeney received severe backlash for featuring nude in an advertisement for a sports trading app, the actress has addressed the controversy and defended herself. Sweeney faced criticism after she featured in an advertisement completely naked, posing with various sports equipment that was strategically used to cover her modesty.&nbsp;In <a href="https://novig.com/justsports">the ad</a>, Sweeney can be heard telling viewers that they can bet on "just sports" while using equipment or posing topless, following it up by using the word "sports" nine times. She then appears topless on a pool table and says, “You can’t trade this, I just look good here.”<h2>Sydney Sweeney defends ad</h2> Amid widespread criticism for the ad, Sydney defended it on her Instagram stories. On Monday, the Euphoria star shared a nude image of herself from the ad alongside several ESPN photoshoots of famous athletes over the years posing without clothes. It included pictures of Serena Williams, Ronda Rousey, Sue Bird, Megan Rapinoe, Caroline Wozniacki, Myles Garrett, Rob Gronkowski, Karl-Anthony Towns and Jason Kelce.<h2>The Internet is not impressed</h2>The actress’s response on the backlash did not get too much support on the internet. A Reddit user posted Sydney's defence on the platform and several users lashed out on the actor. “They are professional athletes. They are not promoting gambling like Sydney,” wrote one.&nbsp;“She is tone deaf to criticism. It is not that you are naked too- it is WHY,” pointed out another.&nbsp;A comment read, “One can absolutely see the difference in the intent behind the professional athletes showing their bodies and the ad campaign SS did… one looks like art and the other looks cheap. People only need an ounce of media literacy to understand the difference.”&nbsp;“These athletes are actually showcasing the sport through their physical fitness. It's sexy yeah but it's also a celebration of what they do. Sydney's ad is a cosplay that promotes her own brand of objectification along with gambling, and honestly makes a mockery of the field with how she just says ‘sports’ over and over like we are all a bunch of braindead boys who love football and boobs,” said a second user.&nbsp;Also read:<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/us-actor-sydney-sweeney-novig-sports-ad-faces-push-back-from-athletes-for-sexualization-of-female-athletes-1789448001372"> 'I just look good here': US actor Sydney Sweeney faces push back from athletes for 'nude' sports advert</a>&nbsp;“What is this comparison? She is not an athlete. Their media campaigns were a direct protest against those comments and gender roles/stereotypes. SS has no concept of whatever subversion is,” said another.<h2>Female athletes criticise Sydney Sweeney</h2>&nbsp;The Hollywood actress faced widespread backlash for sexualizing women in sports and has faced pushback from multiple female athletes.&nbsp;&nbsp;"I can’t describe how infuriated I feel when I watch this," Ariarne Titmus, a four-time Olympic gold medalist swimmer from Australia, wrote on Instagram. “Not only is it a kick in the face to every woman who has dedicated her life to perfecting her craft, but to every woman who enjoys sports for what it really is – teamwork, friendship, dedication, excellence, unity …&nbsp;"How do we live in a world where monetising a woman's body and sexualising women's sport is still a thing?"&nbsp;American gymnast Gracie <a href="https://www.instagram.com/p/DdMa6FaOexv/?hl=en">Kramer's Instagram post</a> line, "this is what a woman in sport looks like," started a trend, with multiple athletes using the same template.<h2>Past controversy involving Sydney Sweeney</h2>Sydney Sweeney has faced similar backlash in the past for featuring in an advertisement for the denim wear brand American Eagle in August 2025. The ad, an attempt to revamp American Eagle, snowballed into criticism for Sweeney as it cheekily suggested that the blue-eyed, blonde-haired actress has ‘good jeans’. The pun didn’t sit well with many, as they drew parallels to genes rather than jeans.&nbsp;Also read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/entertainment/lifestyle/syndey-sweeney-gets-support-from-american-eagle-after-facing-criticism-jeans-ad-1754118954551">Sydney Sweeney gets support from American Eagle after facing criticism for jeans ad</a>

Amid backlash, actress Sydney Sweeney has defended her latest ad for a sports trading app. The actress recently faced criticism for posing nude in the advertisement, using sports equipment to strategically cover herself. 

Days after Sydney Sweeney received severe backlash for featuring nude in an advertisement for a sports trading app, the actress has addressed the controversy and defended herself. Sweeney faced criticism after she featured in an advertisement completely naked, posing with various sports equipment that was strategically used to cover her modesty. In the ad, Sweeney can be heard telling viewers that they can bet on "just sports" while using equipment or posing topless, following it up by using the word "sports" nine times. She then appears topless on a pool table and says, “You can’t trade this, I just look good here.” Sydney Sweeney defends ad Amid widespread criticism for the ad, Sydney defended it on her Instagram stories. On Monday, the Euphoria star shared a nude image of herself from the ad alongside several ESPN photoshoots of famous athletes over the years posing without clothes. It included pictures of Serena Williams, Ronda Rousey, Sue Bird, Megan Rapinoe, Caroline Wozniacki, Myles Garrett, Rob Gronkowski, Karl-Anthony Towns and Jason Kelce. The Internet is not impressed The actress’s response on the backlash did not get too much support on the internet. A Reddit user posted Sydney's defence on the platform and several users lashed out on the actor. “They are professional athletes. They are not promoting gambling like Sydney,” wrote one. “She is tone deaf to criticism. It is not that you are naked too- it is WHY,” pointed out another. A comment read, “One can absolutely see the difference in the intent behind the professional athletes showing their bodies and the ad campaign SS did… one looks like art and the other looks cheap. People only need an ounce of media literacy to understand the difference.” “These athletes are actually showcasing the sport through their physical fitness. It's sexy yeah but it's also a celebration of what they do. Sydney's ad is a cosplay that promotes her own brand of objectification along with gambling, and honestly makes a mockery of the field with how she just says ‘sports’ over and over like we are all a bunch of braindead boys who love football and boobs,” said a second user. Also read: 'I just look good here': US actor Sydney Sweeney faces push back from athletes for 'nude' sports advert “What is this comparison? She is not an athlete. Their media campaigns were a direct protest against those comments and gender roles/stereotypes. SS has no concept of whatever subversion is,” said another. Female athletes criticise Sydney Sweeney The Hollywood actress faced widespread backlash for sexualizing women in sports and has faced pushback from multiple female athletes. "I can’t describe how infuriated I feel when I watch this," Ariarne Titmus, a four-time Olympic gold medalist swimmer from Australia, wrote on Instagram. “Not only is it a kick in the face to every woman who has dedicated her life to perfecting her craft, but to every woman who enjoys sports for what it really is – teamwork, friendship, dedication, excellence, unity … "How do we live in a world where monetising a woman's body and sexualising women's sport is still a thing?" American gymnast Gracie Kramer's Instagram post line, "this is what a woman in sport looks like," started a trend, with multiple athletes using the same template. Past controversy involving Sydney Sweeney Sydney Sweeney has faced similar backlash in the past for featuring in an advertisement for the denim wear brand American Eagle in August 2025. The ad, an attempt to revamp American Eagle, snowballed into criticism for Sweeney as it cheekily suggested that the blue-eyed, blonde-haired actress has ‘good jeans’. The pun didn’t sit well with many, as they drew parallels to genes rather than jeans. Also read: Sydney Sweeney gets support from American Eagle after facing criticism for jeans ad

Amid backlash, actress Sydney Sweeney has defended her latest ad for a sports trading app. The actress recently faced criticism for posing nude in the advertisement, using sports equipment to strategically cover herself.&nbsp;

Sydney Sweeney defends provocative ad choice, the internet is still not impressed

The ODI World Cup 2027 is just a little over a year away, and former India all-rounder Yuvraj Singh wants a set of players fixed without big changes at the last moment. India last won the ODI World Cup in 2011, where Yuvraj was named Player of the Series (POTS) for scoring 362 runs and taking 15 wickets. The 44-year-old former all-rounder also wants match-winners to be picked instead of multi-skill players. India start their road to the ODI World Cup 2027 with a three-ODI series at home against the West Indies from September 27.<h2>Yuvraj warns about massive changes ahead of ODI World Cup 2027</h2>"Every time India have faltered is when they've made some massive changes at the last moment or in the tournament. So I think it's important that we stick to a team that we believe can lift the 2027 World Cup and stick by those guys whether they fail or succeed till that moment. Belief in the squad is very important," Yuvraj told Cricinfo.Also Read - <a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/definitely-feel-bad-for-yourself-kuldeep-yadav-opens-up-on-india-test-snubs-1789479090406">'Definitely feel bad for yourself': Kuldeep Yadav opens up on India Test snubs</a>On the team combination, the former all-rounder opined: "Every country has a different set of players. Some teams have more all-rounders, some teams have more specific batters and bowlers. You have to go with the best combination. The best combination will always be 12, 13, 14 players and [pick the 15th] according to conditions. Whether you want to play an extra spinner, fast bowler, or all-rounder, you have got to go with the best. You've got to go with your top 11 match-winners who you feel can win the game."<h2>What are the questions before India ahead of the ODI World Cup 2027?</h2>Apart from who to select, the biggest question the Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI) faces is whether to include former skipper Rohit Sharma in their plans. The BCCI is yet to announce the squad for the West Indies ODIs, which could give a better picture of how the ODI World Cup 2027 squad is going to look.Rohit, who plays only in the 50-over format for India, has been facing scrutiny for quite some time now. The 39-year-old is one of the most prolific batters India has ever produced, with 11,895 runs in 288 matches at an average of nearly 49, including 34 tons, 62 fifties, and a career-best of 264 - the highest individual score by a player in the format.Since IPL 2026, Rohit has played six ODIs - three each against Afghanistan and England - hitting one fifty and one hundred.&nbsp;&nbsp;

Yuvraj Singh urged India to lock in their 2027 World Cup core early and prioritize match-winners over multi-skill players. Meanwhile, questions loom over 39-year-old Rohit Sharma's inclusion.

The ODI World Cup 2027 is just a little over a year away, and former India all-rounder Yuvraj Singh wants a set of players fixed without big changes at the last moment. India last won the ODI World Cup in 2011, where Yuvraj was named Player of the Series (POTS) for scoring 362 runs and taking 15 wickets. The 44-year-old former all-rounder also wants match-winners to be picked instead of multi-skill players. India start their road to the ODI World Cup 2027 with a three-ODI series at home against the West Indies from September 27. Yuvraj warns about massive changes ahead of ODI World Cup 2027 "Every time India have faltered is when they've made some massive changes at the last moment or in the tournament. So I think it's important that we stick to a team that we believe can lift the 2027 World Cup and stick by those guys whether they fail or succeed till that moment. Belief in the squad is very important," Yuvraj told Cricinfo. Also Read - 'Definitely feel bad for yourself': Kuldeep Yadav opens up on India Test snubs On the team combination, the former all-rounder opined: "Every country has a different set of players. Some teams have more all-rounders, some teams have more specific batters and bowlers. You have to go with the best combination. The best combination will always be 12, 13, 14 players and [pick the 15th] according to conditions. Whether you want to play an extra spinner, fast bowler, or all-rounder, you have got to go with the best. You've got to go with your top 11 match-winners who you feel can win the game." What are the questions before India ahead of the ODI World Cup 2027? Apart from who to select, the biggest question the Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI) faces is whether to include former skipper Rohit Sharma in their plans. The BCCI is yet to announce the squad for the West Indies ODIs, which could give a better picture of how the ODI World Cup 2027 squad is going to look. Rohit, who plays only in the 50-over format for India, has been facing scrutiny for quite some time now. The 39-year-old is one of the most prolific batters India has ever produced, with 11,895 runs in 288 matches at an average of nearly 49, including 34 tons, 62 fifties, and a career-best of 264 - the highest individual score by a player in the format. Since IPL 2026, Rohit has played six ODIs - three each against Afghanistan and England - hitting one fifty and one hundred.

Yuvraj Singh urged India to lock in their 2027 World Cup core early and prioritize match-winners over multi-skill players. Meanwhile, questions loom over 39-year-old Rohit Sharma's inclusion.

Ex-India all-rounder Yuvraj Singh wants India to avoid 'massive changes' before ODI World Cup 2027

Lionel Messi was on Tuesday named in Argentina's squad for a friendly against Benin on October 6, a match that will serve as his farewell appearance after announcing his international retirement last month. The 39-year-old said in August he was retiring from Argentina duty after a two-decade international career that included winning the 2022 World Cup and Copa America triumphs in 2021 and 2024."We made the decision to invite the best player in the world, the symbol of our national team, our captain, Lionel Andres Messi, so that he can have the farewell he truly deserves on October 6 here in Argentina," said Argentine FA president Claudio Tapia.Also Read - <a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/rift-in-france-football-dembele-hits-back-after-mbappe-s-chosen-one-remark-1789461966788">Rift in France football? Dembele hits back after Mbappe's 'chosen one' remark</a>The match against Benin will take place at River Plate's Estadio Monumental in Buenos Aires, which can accommodate 85,000 spectators.Tapia also invited all of Argentina's 2022 World Cup winners to join Messi for what he said would be an "unforgettable" occasion.Argentina begin a series of three friendlies against Bolivia on September 30 in Cordoba -- their first match since losing the World Cup final to Spain -- before taking on Burkina Faso in Buenos Aires on October 3.Messi has been included in the squad for the third match against Benin, when he is expected to make his 208th and final appearance for the national team. He is Argentina's all-time record scorer with 125 goals.Following the death of his father Jorge last month, Messi had said he had "serious doubts" about continuing to play football of any sort for "much longer"."It was a decision that hurt and still hurts deep in my soul but I understand that it is the right time," Messi said when he called time on his Argentina career.His contract with Major League Soccer club Inter Miami runs until the end of the 2028 season.Last month FIFA ordered Argentina to play their next home match with capacity reduced to 50 percent for breaches of its disciplinary code relating to using a sports event for making demonstrations of a non-sporting nature.After Argentina beat England 2-1 in a tense World Cup semi-final in July, several players held up a banner saying: "The Falklands are Argentine".The friendlies are also expected to count towards suspensions handed down following incidents after Argentina's World Cup final defeat by Spain.Midfielder Leandro Paredes received a 10-match ban, while defender Nahuel Molina was suspended for seven games and Thiago Almada for one.

Lionel Messi has been named in Argentina's squad for an October 6 friendly against Benin at Estadio Monumental, serving as his 208th and final international match following his retirement.

Lionel Messi was on Tuesday named in Argentina's squad for a friendly against Benin on October 6, a match that will serve as his farewell appearance after announcing his international retirement last month. The 39-year-old said in August he was retiring from Argentina duty after a two-decade international career that included winning the 2022 World Cup and Copa America triumphs in 2021 and 2024. "We made the decision to invite the best player in the world, the symbol of our national team, our captain, Lionel Andres Messi, so that he can have the farewell he truly deserves on October 6 here in Argentina," said Argentine FA president Claudio Tapia. Also Read - Rift in France football? Dembele hits back after Mbappe's 'chosen one' remark The match against Benin will take place at River Plate's Estadio Monumental in Buenos Aires, which can accommodate 85,000 spectators. Tapia also invited all of Argentina's 2022 World Cup winners to join Messi for what he said would be an "unforgettable" occasion. Argentina begin a series of three friendlies against Bolivia on September 30 in Cordoba -- their first match since losing the World Cup final to Spain -- before taking on Burkina Faso in Buenos Aires on October 3. Messi has been included in the squad for the third match against Benin, when he is expected to make his 208th and final appearance for the national team. He is Argentina's all-time record scorer with 125 goals. Following the death of his father Jorge last month, Messi had said he had "serious doubts" about continuing to play football of any sort for "much longer". "It was a decision that hurt and still hurts deep in my soul but I understand that it is the right time," Messi said when he called time on his Argentina career. His contract with Major League Soccer club Inter Miami runs until the end of the 2028 season. Last month FIFA ordered Argentina to play their next home match with capacity reduced to 50 percent for breaches of its disciplinary code relating to using a sports event for making demonstrations of a non-sporting nature. After Argentina beat England 2-1 in a tense World Cup semi-final in July, several players held up a banner saying: "The Falklands are Argentine". The friendlies are also expected to count towards suspensions handed down following incidents after Argentina's World Cup final defeat by Spain. Midfielder Leandro Paredes received a 10-match ban, while defender Nahuel Molina was suspended for seven games and Thiago Almada for one.

Lionel Messi has been named in Argentina's squad for an October 6 friendly against Benin at Estadio Monumental, serving as his 208th and final international match following his retirement.

Messi set to play in farewell match on October 6 in Argentina vs Benin friendly

India defeated Afghanistan by seven wickets in the second T20I at the Arun Jaitley Stadium in New Delhi on Tuesday (Sept 15) to take an unassailable 2-0 lead in the three-match series. After winning the toss, India opted to bowl and restricted Afghanistan to 159/8 in 20 overs. Ibrahim Zadran top-scored with 37 runs, while Rashid Khan hit 28 off 16 balls.&nbsp;Nitish Kumar Reddy was India’s standout bowler with 3/24, while Arshdeep Singh claimed two wickets.&nbsp;India started the chase in explosive style, with Sanju Samson and Abhishek Sharma putting Afghanistan under pressure from the start. India scored 82 runs in the powerplay without losing a wicket.&nbsp;Samson smashed three fours and a six off Azmatullah Omarzai in the fifth over, which produced 20 runs. India then added 27 runs in the next over, with Samson hitting two sixes and two fours and Abhishek also clearing the boundary.&nbsp;Also Read - <a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/nairobi-to-host-africa-s-first-world-athletics-championships-in-2029-1789485188557">Nairobi to host Africa’s first World Athletics Championships in 2029</a>&nbsp;Rashid Khan finally broke the partnership in the seventh over, dismissing both openers. Samson scored a stunning 57 off 22 balls, while Abhishek made 39 off 19 deliveries.&nbsp;Rashid struck again in the 11th over to remove captain Shreyas Iyer, but India remained firmly in control. Ishan Kishan stayed unbeaten on 38, while Tilak Varma made 15 not out as India reached 163/3 in 14.5 overs.&nbsp;Also Read - <a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/brendan-taylor-surpasses-sachin-tendulkar-for-longest-odi-career-1789476290529">Brendan Taylor surpasses Sachin Tendulkar for longest ODI career</a>&nbsp;Earlier, Arshdeep dismissed Rahmanullah Gurbaz for a duck before Atal and Ibrahim Zadran steadied Afghanistan’s innings. Reddy then dismissed Zadran with his first delivery.&nbsp;Bishnoi removed Sediqullah Atal for 12, while Reddy dismissed Gulbadin Naib. Axar Patel and Arshdeep then removed Azmatullah Omarzai and Darwish Rasooli respectively.&nbsp;Nabi and Rashid added 48 runs from 28 balls before Bumrah dismissed Nabi and Reddy removed Rashid. Afghanistan finished on 159/8.&nbsp;With inputs from agencies

Sanju Samson’s unbeaten 57 helped India beat Afghanistan by seven wickets in the second T20I, securing a 2-0 series lead. India chased down the 160-run target with 31 balls to spare.

India defeated Afghanistan by seven wickets in the second T20I at the Arun Jaitley Stadium in New Delhi on Tuesday (Sept 15) to take an unassailable 2-0 lead in the three-match series. After winning the toss, India opted to bowl and restricted Afghanistan to 159/8 in 20 overs. Ibrahim Zadran top-scored with 37 runs, while Rashid Khan hit 28 off 16 balls. Nitish Kumar Reddy was India’s standout bowler with 3/24, while Arshdeep Singh claimed two wickets. India started the chase in explosive style, with Sanju Samson and Abhishek Sharma putting Afghanistan under pressure from the start. India scored 82 runs in the powerplay without losing a wicket. Samson smashed three fours and a six off Azmatullah Omarzai in the fifth over, which produced 20 runs. India then added 27 runs in the next over, with Samson hitting two sixes and two fours and Abhishek also clearing the boundary. Also Read - Nairobi to host Africa’s first World Athletics Championships in 2029 Rashid Khan finally broke the partnership in the seventh over, dismissing both openers. Samson scored a stunning 57 off 22 balls, while Abhishek made 39 off 19 deliveries. Rashid struck again in the 11th over to remove captain Shreyas Iyer, but India remained firmly in control. Ishan Kishan stayed unbeaten on 38, while Tilak Varma made 15 not out as India reached 163/3 in 14.5 overs. Also Read - Brendan Taylor surpasses Sachin Tendulkar for longest ODI career Earlier, Arshdeep dismissed Rahmanullah Gurbaz for a duck before Atal and Ibrahim Zadran steadied Afghanistan’s innings. Reddy then dismissed Zadran with his first delivery. Bishnoi removed Sediqullah Atal for 12, while Reddy dismissed Gulbadin Naib. Axar Patel and Arshdeep then removed Azmatullah Omarzai and Darwish Rasooli respectively. Nabi and Rashid added 48 runs from 28 balls before Bumrah dismissed Nabi and Reddy removed Rashid. Afghanistan finished on 159/8. With inputs from agencies

Sanju Samson’s unbeaten 57 helped India beat Afghanistan by seven wickets in the second T20I, securing a 2-0 series lead. India chased down the 160-run target with 31 balls to spare.

IND vs AFG, 2nd T20I: Reddy, Samson shine as India defeat Afghanistan by 7 wickets to clinch series

The World Athletics Championships will be held in Africa for the first time in 2029, with Kenya’s capital Nairobi chosen as the host city for the prestigious track and field event.Kenya is among the world’s strongest athletics nations, especially in distance running and is second only to the United States on the all-time World Championships medal table. The event will then move to Germany in 2031, with Munich set to host the championships for the first time.&nbsp;World Athletics president Sebastian Coe called Nairobi’s selection a historic development and pointed to Kenya’s strong connection with athletics.&nbsp;“Taking our championships to Africa for the first time will be historic,” Coe said after announcing the decision following the Ultimate Championship in Hungary. “Athletics is woven into the fabric of Kenya.”&nbsp;Kenyan sports minister Salim Mvurya also welcomed the decision, saying the championships would give the world a chance to see a country where running is deeply connected to its identity.<h3>Passionate fans get their moment</h3>Coe said World Athletics research showed that Kenya had the most passionate track and field fans among the markets surveyed.&nbsp;Nairobi’s bid was also helped by its existing sports infrastructure. The championships will be held at a stadium that is already undergoing upgrades ahead of Kenya’s co-hosting of the Africa Cup of Nations next year.&nbsp;“It was important that the World Athletics Championships should come to Africa when we had the right host, the right bid and the right circumstances,” Coe said. “Nairobi has demonstrated emphatically that this is their moment.”&nbsp;Also Read - <a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/definitely-feel-bad-for-yourself-kuldeep-yadav-opens-up-on-india-test-snubs-1789479090406">'Definitely feel bad for yourself': Kuldeep Yadav opens up on India Test snubs</a>&nbsp;However, hosting the event could also bring greater attention to Kenya’s doping record. Several top Kenyan athletes have faced suspensions in the past decade and among them is marathon world record holder Ruth Chepng’etich, who is currently serving a three-year ban.&nbsp;Nairobi defeated bids from London and Rome to win the right to host the 2029 championships. London last staged the event in 2017.&nbsp;The World Athletics Championships will continue with their traditional format. Next year’s edition in Beijing will run for 10 days and include the full programme of events.&nbsp;This will be different from the three-day Ultimate Championship in Budapest, which featured an invitation-only field and major cash prizes instead of the traditional medal-based format. Events including the men’s triple jump, shot put, race walks and marathon were not part of that competition.&nbsp;Also Read - <a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/icc-punishes-kranti-gaud-pakistan-team-after-women-s-asia-cup-here-s-why-1789470253890">ICC punishes Kranti Gaud, Pakistan team after Women’s Asia Cup: Here’s why</a>&nbsp;The Ultimate Championship has not yet announced a host for its 2028 edition. However, Coe said there had already been strong interest following its first edition.&nbsp;“I think the proof of concept worked pretty well. There are things that we will obviously look at and adjust,” Coe said.&nbsp;Before Nairobi hosts the World Athletics Championships in 2029, Beijing will stage the next edition, followed by Munich in 2031.

The 2029 World Athletics Championships will make history in Nairobi as the first edition of the global competition to be held in Africa.

The World Athletics Championships will be held in Africa for the first time in 2029, with Kenya’s capital Nairobi chosen as the host city for the prestigious track and field event. Kenya is among the world’s strongest athletics nations, especially in distance running and is second only to the United States on the all-time World Championships medal table. The event will then move to Germany in 2031, with Munich set to host the championships for the first time. World Athletics president Sebastian Coe called Nairobi’s selection a historic development and pointed to Kenya’s strong connection with athletics. “Taking our championships to Africa for the first time will be historic,” Coe said after announcing the decision following the Ultimate Championship in Hungary. “Athletics is woven into the fabric of Kenya.” Kenyan sports minister Salim Mvurya also welcomed the decision, saying the championships would give the world a chance to see a country where running is deeply connected to its identity. Passionate fans get their moment Coe said World Athletics research showed that Kenya had the most passionate track and field fans among the markets surveyed. Nairobi’s bid was also helped by its existing sports infrastructure. The championships will be held at a stadium that is already undergoing upgrades ahead of Kenya’s co-hosting of the Africa Cup of Nations next year. “It was important that the World Athletics Championships should come to Africa when we had the right host, the right bid and the right circumstances,” Coe said. “Nairobi has demonstrated emphatically that this is their moment.” Also Read - 'Definitely feel bad for yourself': Kuldeep Yadav opens up on India Test snubs However, hosting the event could also bring greater attention to Kenya’s doping record. Several top Kenyan athletes have faced suspensions in the past decade and among them is marathon world record holder Ruth Chepng’etich, who is currently serving a three-year ban. Nairobi defeated bids from London and Rome to win the right to host the 2029 championships. London last staged the event in 2017. The World Athletics Championships will continue with their traditional format. Next year’s edition in Beijing will run for 10 days and include the full programme of events. This will be different from the three-day Ultimate Championship in Budapest, which featured an invitation-only field and major cash prizes instead of the traditional medal-based format. Events including the men’s triple jump, shot put, race walks and marathon were not part of that competition. Also Read - ICC punishes Kranti Gaud, Pakistan team after Women’s Asia Cup: Here’s why The Ultimate Championship has not yet announced a host for its 2028 edition. However, Coe said there had already been strong interest following its first edition. “I think the proof of concept worked pretty well. There are things that we will obviously look at and adjust,” Coe said. Before Nairobi hosts the World Athletics Championships in 2029, Beijing will stage the next edition, followed by Munich in 2031.

The 2029 World Athletics Championships will make history in Nairobi as the first edition of the global competition to be held in Africa.

Nairobi to host Africa’s first World Athletics Championships in 2029

Indian spinner Kuldeep Yadav has spoken openly about being left out of India’s playing XI across formats, admitting that he feels disappointed when the team management does not consider him for a match. During Rahul Dravid’s tenure as India’s head coach from Nov 2021 to Jun 2024, Kuldeep played 60 matches across formats, averaging almost two appearances a month. Under Gautam Gambhir, however, he has featured in only 38 matches, around 1.5 games per month.&nbsp;There have been several recent instances where the team management chose not to include Kuldeep. During the three-match ODI series against England, India went with four pacers instead of picking the spinner for the final game.&nbsp;&nbsp;In the recent Test series against Sri Lanka, Kuldeep was left out after limited involvement in the first Test, with off-spinner Saransh Jain preferred for the second match. Jain failed to take a wicket in that game.&nbsp;“Sometimes you just have to go with the team combination or strategy, unfortunately or fortunately. Definitely you feel bad for yourself when you’re not playing, when you’re not part of the playing XI,” Kuldeep told talkSPORT.&nbsp;“You want to play because when you are in the squad you want to play, but sometimes it doesn’t happen because of whatever the management thinks… Last year, I was hoping to get a chance in a few games, but it’s okay. Maybe next time,” he said.&nbsp;Also Read - <a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/brendan-taylor-surpasses-sachin-tendulkar-for-longest-odi-career-1789476290529">Brendan Taylor surpasses Sachin Tendulkar for longest ODI career</a>&nbsp;With limited opportunities for India, Kuldeep has explored other ways to get match practice. He played for Yorkshire in the County Championship and made a strong impact, taking 10 wickets in three matches at an average of 12.&nbsp;“I personally feel it’s (English county experience) very good for batters and spinners. Obviously, you will see seaming conditions here and there, but you play here to get used to the challenges you face. You’re not going to face them back home because you grew up playing there and you know the conditions pretty well,” he said.&nbsp;Also Read - <a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/icc-punishes-kranti-gaud-pakistan-team-after-women-s-asia-cup-here-s-why-1789470253890">ICC punishes Kranti Gaud, Pakistan team after Women’s Asia Cup: Here’s why</a>&nbsp;With Varun Chakaravarthy currently injured and out of the T20I squad, it remains to be seen whether Gambhir and the team management decide to bring Kuldeep back into the side.

Kuldeep Yadav recently claimed his maiden 10-wicket haul in First-Class cricket at Headingley, registering career-best figures of 6 for 50 as Yorkshire secured an innings victory over Essex.

Indian spinner Kuldeep Yadav has spoken openly about being left out of India’s playing XI across formats, admitting that he feels disappointed when the team management does not consider him for a match. During Rahul Dravid’s tenure as India’s head coach from Nov 2021 to Jun 2024, Kuldeep played 60 matches across formats, averaging almost two appearances a month. Under Gautam Gambhir, however, he has featured in only 38 matches, around 1.5 games per month. There have been several recent instances where the team management chose not to include Kuldeep. During the three-match ODI series against England, India went with four pacers instead of picking the spinner for the final game. In the recent Test series against Sri Lanka, Kuldeep was left out after limited involvement in the first Test, with off-spinner Saransh Jain preferred for the second match. Jain failed to take a wicket in that game. “Sometimes you just have to go with the team combination or strategy, unfortunately or fortunately. Definitely you feel bad for yourself when you’re not playing, when you’re not part of the playing XI,” Kuldeep told talkSPORT. “You want to play because when you are in the squad you want to play, but sometimes it doesn’t happen because of whatever the management thinks… Last year, I was hoping to get a chance in a few games, but it’s okay. Maybe next time,” he said. Also Read - Brendan Taylor surpasses Sachin Tendulkar for longest ODI career With limited opportunities for India, Kuldeep has explored other ways to get match practice. He played for Yorkshire in the County Championship and made a strong impact, taking 10 wickets in three matches at an average of 12. “I personally feel it’s (English county experience) very good for batters and spinners. Obviously, you will see seaming conditions here and there, but you play here to get used to the challenges you face. You’re not going to face them back home because you grew up playing there and you know the conditions pretty well,” he said. Also Read - ICC punishes Kranti Gaud, Pakistan team after Women’s Asia Cup: Here’s why With Varun Chakaravarthy currently injured and out of the T20I squad, it remains to be seen whether Gambhir and the team management decide to bring Kuldeep back into the side.

Kuldeep Yadav recently claimed his maiden 10-wicket haul in First-Class cricket at Headingley, registering career-best figures of 6 for 50 as Yorkshire secured an innings victory over Essex.

'Definitely feel bad for yourself': Kuldeep Yadav opens up on India Test snubs

Zimbabwe’s Brendan Taylor has surpassed Indian batting legend Sachin Tendulkar to become the longest-serving ODI player in men’s cricket, with his career now spanning 22 years and 148 days, moving him past Tendulkar’s previous record of 22 years and 91 days. He achieved the milestone by playing in the first ODI of the ongoing three-match series between Zimbabwe and Australia in Harare on Tuesday.&nbsp;Tendulkar has now moved to second place, while former Sri Lanka batter Sanath Jayasuriya is third with a career spanning 21 years and 184 days.&nbsp;Despite losing the record, Tendulkar remains the leading run-scorer in ODI cricket with 18,426 runs. He also holds the record for most ODI appearances, having played 463 matches.&nbsp;The 40-year-old made his ODI debut against Sri Lanka in Apr 2004 and became one of Zimbabwe’s most important batters. Before Tuesday’s match, he had scored 6,704 runs in 207 ODIs, including 11 centuries, which is a Zimbabwean record.&nbsp;Also Read - <a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/icc-punishes-kranti-gaud-pakistan-team-after-women-s-asia-cup-here-s-why-1789470253890">ICC punishes Kranti Gaud, Pakistan team after Women’s Asia Cup: Here’s why</a>&nbsp;Taylor retired from international cricket in 2021, but in Jan 2022, four months after his retirement, he revealed that he had been approached by people involved in corruption who tried to lure him into match-fixing in 2019. He said they offered him cocaine and later blackmailed him.&nbsp;Also Read - <a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/7-former-australian-captains-back-humanitarian-plea-for-imran-khan-1789468384687">7 former Australian captains back humanitarian plea for Imran Khan</a>&nbsp;Taylor maintained that he had never fixed a match but admitted that he did not immediately report the approach to the ICC because he was worried about his family’s safety, according to Cricinfo. He was later banned from all forms of cricket for three and a half years.&nbsp;After serving his ban, Taylor returned to international cricket in 2025 as Zimbabwe prepared for the 2027 ODI World Cup, which will be jointly hosted by South Africa and Namibia.

Brendan Taylor surpasses Sachin Tendulkar as ODI cricket’s longest-serving player, completing a remarkable 22-year, 146-day career span.

Zimbabwe’s Brendan Taylor has surpassed Indian batting legend Sachin Tendulkar to become the longest-serving ODI player in men’s cricket, with his career now spanning 22 years and 148 days, moving him past Tendulkar’s previous record of 22 years and 91 days. He achieved the milestone by playing in the first ODI of the ongoing three-match series between Zimbabwe and Australia in Harare on Tuesday. Tendulkar has now moved to second place, while former Sri Lanka batter Sanath Jayasuriya is third with a career spanning 21 years and 184 days. Despite losing the record, Tendulkar remains the leading run-scorer in ODI cricket with 18,426 runs. He also holds the record for most ODI appearances, having played 463 matches. The 40-year-old made his ODI debut against Sri Lanka in Apr 2004 and became one of Zimbabwe’s most important batters. Before Tuesday’s match, he had scored 6,704 runs in 207 ODIs, including 11 centuries, which is a Zimbabwean record. Also Read - ICC punishes Kranti Gaud, Pakistan team after Women’s Asia Cup: Here’s why Taylor retired from international cricket in 2021, but in Jan 2022, four months after his retirement, he revealed that he had been approached by people involved in corruption who tried to lure him into match-fixing in 2019. He said they offered him cocaine and later blackmailed him. Also Read - 7 former Australian captains back humanitarian plea for Imran Khan Taylor maintained that he had never fixed a match but admitted that he did not immediately report the approach to the ICC because he was worried about his family’s safety, according to Cricinfo. He was later banned from all forms of cricket for three and a half years. After serving his ban, Taylor returned to international cricket in 2025 as Zimbabwe prepared for the 2027 ODI World Cup, which will be jointly hosted by South Africa and Namibia.

Brendan Taylor surpasses Sachin Tendulkar as ODI cricket’s longest-serving player, completing a remarkable 22-year, 146-day career span.

Brendan Taylor surpasses Sachin Tendulkar for longest ODI career

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