Mushfiqur Rahim became the first Bangladesh cricketer to reach the 100-Test mark on Wednesday (Nov 19). With this milestone, let’s take a look at the five players who have played the most Test matches for Bangladesh.

Mushfiqur Rahim became the first Bangladesh cricketer to reach the 100-Test mark on Wednesday (Nov 19). With this milestone, let’s take a look at the five players who have played the most Test matches for Bangladesh.

5 players with most Tests for Bangladesh: Mushfiqur Rahim leads the chart, check the full list

Roger Federer has been officially inducted into the International Tennis Hall of Fame in his first year of eligibility, the Rhode Island-based institution announced on Wednesday (November 19). Federer, who made history as the first male player to win 20 Grand Slam singles titles, joins an exclusive class of 2026 honourees, which includes former player and TV analyst Mary Carillo, who was selected in the contributor category. Notably, the former Swiss player came to know about his election through a phone call, which included Stefan Edberg and Boris Becker.&nbsp;Federer’s career spanned two decades of dominance, and he was part of an era marked by extraordinary rivalries with Rafael Nadal and Novak Djokovic, which he referred to as "a golden time for tennis." He was the only player in the 2026 Hall of Fame voting to earn enough support for inclusion, although the Hall does not disclose specific voting figures.&nbsp;Also Read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/ashes-2025-26-mitchell-marsh-back-in-sheffield-shield-frame-raising-fresh-test-selection-talks-1763550520874">Ashes 2025-26: Mitchell Marsh back in Sheffield Shield frame, raising fresh Test selection talks</a><h2>Roger Federer: A class apart &nbsp;</h2>Federer’s first Grand Slam win came at Wimbledon in 2003, and by 2009, he had surpassed Pete Sampras’ record with 15 major titles. He won his 20th Grand Slam at the 2018 Australian Open. Federer also made history by spending 310 weeks at no. 1 in the ATP rankings, including a record 237 consecutive weeks at the top, and led Switzerland to victory in the 2014 Davis Cup. His partnership with Stan Wawrinka also brought home a gold medal in doubles from the 2008 Beijing Olympics.&nbsp;Federer, known for his multilingual ability in interviews, retired after playing his final match at Wimbledon in 2021, just shy of his 40th birthday. His induction to the Hall of Fame cements his legacy as one of the greatest players to ever grace the sport. "I've always valued the history of tennis and the example set by those who came before me," Federer was quoted as saying to news agency Associated Press. “To be recognized in this way by the sport and by my peers is deeply humbling.”

Roger Federer to be inducted into International Tennis Hall of Fame

Roger Federer has been officially inducted into the International Tennis Hall of Fame in his first year of eligibility, the Rhode Island-based institution announced on Wednesday (November 19). Federer, who made history as the first male player to win 20 Grand Slam singles titles, joins an exclusive class of 2026 honourees, which includes former player and TV analyst Mary Carillo, who was selected in the contributor category. Notably, the former Swiss player came to know about his election through a phone call, which included Stefan Edberg and Boris Becker. Federer’s career spanned two decades of dominance, and he was part of an era marked by extraordinary rivalries with Rafael Nadal and Novak Djokovic, which he referred to as "a golden time for tennis." He was the only player in the 2026 Hall of Fame voting to earn enough support for inclusion, although the Hall does not disclose specific voting figures. Also Read: Ashes 2025-26: Mitchell Marsh back in Sheffield Shield frame, raising fresh Test selection talks Roger Federer: A class apart Federer’s first Grand Slam win came at Wimbledon in 2003, and by 2009, he had surpassed Pete Sampras’ record with 15 major titles. He won his 20th Grand Slam at the 2018 Australian Open. Federer also made history by spending 310 weeks at no. 1 in the ATP rankings, including a record 237 consecutive weeks at the top, and led Switzerland to victory in the 2014 Davis Cup. His partnership with Stan Wawrinka also brought home a gold medal in doubles from the 2008 Beijing Olympics. Federer, known for his multilingual ability in interviews, retired after playing his final match at Wimbledon in 2021, just shy of his 40th birthday. His induction to the Hall of Fame cements his legacy as one of the greatest players to ever grace the sport. "I've always valued the history of tennis and the example set by those who came before me," Federer was quoted as saying to news agency Associated Press. “To be recognized in this way by the sport and by my peers is deeply humbling.”

The 20-time Grand Slam winner was elected into the International Tennis&nbsp;Hall&nbsp;of&nbsp;Fame in his first year of eligibility. He was informed about the news through a phone call

November 19, 2023 - India ODI team under Rohit Sharma and a billions fans suffered a massive heartbreak as they lost to Australia in ODI World Cup final that too at home. Before the loss, India had reached the ODI World Cup twice - in 2011 which they had won under MS Dhoni and 2003 which they had lost in South Africa, also against Australia. The 2023 final was the perfect opportunity for India to avenge the loss of 2003 loss but instead they got another one to nurse. Two years since Rohit Sharma got visibly emotional in Ahmedabad, India are now the undisputed white-ball giants.<h2>T20 World Cup 2024</h2>After the 2023 ODI World Cup, focus turned onto the T20 World Cup 2024 n South Africa. India were placed in Group A along with Pakistan, the USA, Canada and Ireland. The went through the group stage unbeaten with three wins and match against Canada being abandoned. Come Super Eight, India faced Afghanistan, Australia and Bangladesh.Also Read - <a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/icc-odi-batting-rankings-daryl-mitchell-becomes-only-second-new-zealand-batter-ever-to-take-top-spot-1763548588207">ICC ODI Batting Rankings: Mitchell only second NZ batter ever to take top spot</a>In the match against Aussies, Rohit unleashed himself, scoring 92 off 41 balls, as if to pay them back for the 2023 ODI WC Final. India reached the semis unbeaten and then went on to beat England in penultimate match and South Africa in the final to life their second T20 World Cup trophy and first since 2007.<h2>Champions Trophy 2025</h2>India's next assignment was Champions Trophy 2025 - which was being played after a gap of eight years with India losing to Pakistan in the final of the last edition in 2017. India were with New Zealand, Pakistan, and Bangladesh in Group A and won all their matches to march unbeaten in the semis.In the semi-final, India faced Australia again and this time Virat Kohli took the chase of 265 upon himself as India won the match by four wickets to enter the final where they beat New Zealand to win the title.In addition to the two ICC trophies - one each in both T20Is and ODIs, India also won the regional Asia Cup (T20) recently to assert their dominance. Since 2023 ODI World Cup final loss, India have played 17 ODIs - with a 11-5 win-loss record and two of those losses came against Australia in bilateral series last month. In T20Is, India has played 59 matches and won 39 of them - the most by any team with just six losses.The 2023 ODI World Cup clearly served as point from which India stopped taking prisoners and are now the undisputed white-ball giants of world cricket.&nbsp;

Since 2023 ODI World Cup final loss, India have played 17 ODIs - with a 11-5 win-loss record. In T20Is, India has played 59 matches and won 39 of them - the most by any team with just six losses including winning T20 World Cup 2024, Champions Trophy 2025 and Asia Cup 2025 (T20).

November 19, 2023 - India ODI team under Rohit Sharma and a billions fans suffered a massive heartbreak as they lost to Australia in ODI World Cup final that too at home. Before the loss, India had reached the ODI World Cup twice - in 2011 which they had won under MS Dhoni and 2003 which they had lost in South Africa, also against Australia. The 2023 final was the perfect opportunity for India to avenge the loss of 2003 loss but instead they got another one to nurse. Two years since Rohit Sharma got visibly emotional in Ahmedabad, India are now the undisputed white-ball giants. T20 World Cup 2024 After the 2023 ODI World Cup, focus turned onto the T20 World Cup 2024 n South Africa. India were placed in Group A along with Pakistan, the USA, Canada and Ireland. The went through the group stage unbeaten with three wins and match against Canada being abandoned. Come Super Eight, India faced Afghanistan, Australia and Bangladesh. Also Read - ICC ODI Batting Rankings: Mitchell only second NZ batter ever to take top spot In the match against Aussies, Rohit unleashed himself, scoring 92 off 41 balls, as if to pay them back for the 2023 ODI WC Final. India reached the semis unbeaten and then went on to beat England in penultimate match and South Africa in the final to life their second T20 World Cup trophy and first since 2007. Champions Trophy 2025 India's next assignment was Champions Trophy 2025 - which was being played after a gap of eight years with India losing to Pakistan in the final of the last edition in 2017. India were with New Zealand, Pakistan, and Bangladesh in Group A and won all their matches to march unbeaten in the semis. In the semi-final, India faced Australia again and this time Virat Kohli took the chase of 265 upon himself as India won the match by four wickets to enter the final where they beat New Zealand to win the title. In addition to the two ICC trophies - one each in both T20Is and ODIs, India also won the regional Asia Cup (T20) recently to assert their dominance. Since 2023 ODI World Cup final loss, India have played 17 ODIs - with a 11-5 win-loss record and two of those losses came against Australia in bilateral series last month. In T20Is, India has played 59 matches and won 39 of them - the most by any team with just six losses. The 2023 ODI World Cup clearly served as point from which India stopped taking prisoners and are now the undisputed white-ball giants of world cricket.

Since 2023 ODI World Cup final loss, India have played 17 ODIs - with a 11-5 win-loss record. In T20Is, India has played 59 matches and won 39 of them - the most by any team with just six losses including winning T20 World Cup 2024, Champions Trophy 2025 and Asia Cup 2025 (T20).

Yearender 2025: Two years since Nov 19, 2023 ODI WC Final loss, India are now undisputed white-ball giants

Australian all-rounder Mitchell Marsh’s decision to come back into red-ball cricket has shifted the selection landscape. Only weeks earlier, he said he expected to watch the first Ashes Test from the Perth stands, signalling his absence from Western Australia’s round five Shield match against South Australia. But plans have changed: Marsh is now set to feature in WA’s one-day clash with Victoria on December 2 at Junction Oval and then play the round six Shield match starting December 4 at the MCG.&nbsp;The 34-year-old hasn’t played first-class cricket since being dropped after the Boxing Day Test against India last year, and his most recent Sheffield Shield outing came in October 2023. Throughout the past year, he has repeatedly played down any intention of rekindling his red-ball career. Despite that, national selector George Bailey said back in April that Marsh remained firmly in Test discussions. Bailey pointed to Marsh’s strong white-ball form and his track record against high pace—qualities Australia could value highly with England primed to unleash a fast-bowling arsenal during the Ashes.&nbsp;Head coach Andrew McDonald echoed the sentiment recently, confirming selectors would have no hesitation picking Marsh if the situation demanded. With concerns emerging over Usman Khawaja’s age and output, he turns 39 during the Adelaide Test, Australia may need top-order flexibility. If Jake Weatherald partners Khawaja, he would be the seventh different opener alongside him in 16 Tests.&nbsp;Also Read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/shubman-gill-injury-update-bcci-shares-new-development-on-captain-s-participation-in-second-test-1763547705975">Shubman Gill injury update: BCCI shares new development on captain's participation in second Test</a>&nbsp;Marsh has never opened the batting in any of his 210 first-class innings and has only batted at no. 3 three times. He has never moved higher than no. 4 for Western Australia. The selectors continue to insist that Shield teams decide their own batting orders, though discussions around Marsh’s spot seem inevitable as this brief red-ball stint may be his only one before the BBL and T20 World Cup commitments dominate.&nbsp;Opening with Marsh would split WA’s established pairing of Sam Whiteman and Cameron Bancroft. Alternatively, slotting him at no. 3 could ease pressure on a middle order currently juggling the workloads of Cameron Green, Cooper Connolly and Josh Inglis. Marsh’s Test average stands at 28.53 from 80 innings. He has struggled considerably at no. 3–5, averaging only 12.57 across nine Tests in those roles. His best results have come at no. 6, where he averages 31.24 and has produced all three of his Test hundreds and nine fifties. A return as a genuine all-rounder seems improbable given restrictions on his bowling since his back injury.&nbsp;As for Inglis, he is expected to bat high against the England Lions simply to build time in the middle, not because he is being groomed as an opener. Inglis has never opened in first-class cricket, and all eight of his hundreds, including his maiden Test century, have come from no. 5 or lower.

Ashes 2025-26: Mitchell Marsh back in Sheffield Shield frame, raising fresh Test selection talks

Australian all-rounder Mitchell Marsh’s decision to come back into red-ball cricket has shifted the selection landscape. Only weeks earlier, he said he expected to watch the first Ashes Test from the Perth stands, signalling his absence from Western Australia’s round five Shield match against South Australia. But plans have changed: Marsh is now set to feature in WA’s one-day clash with Victoria on December 2 at Junction Oval and then play the round six Shield match starting December 4 at the MCG. The 34-year-old hasn’t played first-class cricket since being dropped after the Boxing Day Test against India last year, and his most recent Sheffield Shield outing came in October 2023. Throughout the past year, he has repeatedly played down any intention of rekindling his red-ball career. Despite that, national selector George Bailey said back in April that Marsh remained firmly in Test discussions. Bailey pointed to Marsh’s strong white-ball form and his track record against high pace—qualities Australia could value highly with England primed to unleash a fast-bowling arsenal during the Ashes. Head coach Andrew McDonald echoed the sentiment recently, confirming selectors would have no hesitation picking Marsh if the situation demanded. With concerns emerging over Usman Khawaja’s age and output, he turns 39 during the Adelaide Test, Australia may need top-order flexibility. If Jake Weatherald partners Khawaja, he would be the seventh different opener alongside him in 16 Tests. Also Read: Shubman Gill injury update: BCCI shares new development on captain's participation in second Test Marsh has never opened the batting in any of his 210 first-class innings and has only batted at no. 3 three times. He has never moved higher than no. 4 for Western Australia. The selectors continue to insist that Shield teams decide their own batting orders, though discussions around Marsh’s spot seem inevitable as this brief red-ball stint may be his only one before the BBL and T20 World Cup commitments dominate. Opening with Marsh would split WA’s established pairing of Sam Whiteman and Cameron Bancroft. Alternatively, slotting him at no. 3 could ease pressure on a middle order currently juggling the workloads of Cameron Green, Cooper Connolly and Josh Inglis. Marsh’s Test average stands at 28.53 from 80 innings. He has struggled considerably at no. 3–5, averaging only 12.57 across nine Tests in those roles. His best results have come at no. 6, where he averages 31.24 and has produced all three of his Test hundreds and nine fifties. A return as a genuine all-rounder seems improbable given restrictions on his bowling since his back injury. As for Inglis, he is expected to bat high against the England Lions simply to build time in the middle, not because he is being groomed as an opener. Inglis has never opened in first-class cricket, and all eight of his hundreds, including his maiden Test century, have come from no. 5 or lower.

Mitchell Marsh is set to return to first-class cricket, pushing for fresh Test talk as Western Australia prepares to put him on the field him in December Shield and one-day fixtures

In the latest ICC ODI batting rankings, Rohit Sharma has slipped from the top spot. Here’s a quick look at the five players who hold the leading positions in the newest update.

In the latest ICC ODI batting rankings, Rohit Sharma has slipped from the top spot. Here’s a quick look at the five players who hold the leading positions in the newest update.

Top 5 players in latest ICC ODI batting rankings: THIS batter dethrones Rohit from the top spot

Days before the second Test between India and South Africa in Guwahati, starting on Saturday (November 22), the Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI) on Wednesday (November 19) provided latest update on India Test captain Shubman Gill. The right-hand opener, who suffered a neck sprain while batting during the first innings of the Kolkata Test and did not take part further in the match, will travel with the team to Guwahati. However, his availability for the match remains unlikely.&nbsp;Also Read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/shai-hope-equals-lara-and-surpasses-viv-richards-with-record-odi-ton-against-new-zealand-1763544792800">Shai Hope equals Lara and surpasses Viv Richards with record ODI ton against New Zealand</a><h2>Read the post from BCCI here</h2>

<blockquote class="twitter-tweet">Medical Update: Shubman Gill Team India captain Shubman Gill suffered a neck injury on Day 2 of the Kolkata Test against South Africa and was taken to the hospital for examination after the end of day&#39;s play. He was kept under observation and discharged the next day. Shubman…&mdash; BCCI (@BCCI) <a href="https://twitter.com/BCCI/status/1991040164928377065?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">November 19, 2025</a></blockquote> <script async src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script>

The BCCI wrote on X, “Medical Update: Shubman Gill Team India captain Shubman Gill suffered a neck injury on Day 2 of the Kolkata Test against South Africa and was taken to the hospital for examination after the end of day's play. He was kept under observation and discharged the next day. Shubman has been responding well to the medical treatment provided and will travel to Guwahati with the team on 19th November, 2025. He will continue to be monitored by the BCCI medical team and a decision on his participation in the 2nd Test will be taken accordingly. ”<h2>How Gill suffered injury?</h2>During Day 2 of the Kolkata Test, Shubman Gill sustained a neck injury while batting, as he attempted a slog sweep off Simon Harmer, resulting in a boundary. He was promptly attended to by the team physiotherapist and later taken to a hospital in Kolkata for further medical assessment. After undergoing scans, Gill was discharged the following day, just after India’s defeat in the opening match of the series.<h2>Nitish Kumar Reddy called</h2>Given Gill's injury and uncertain availability, the Indian selectors have called up Nitish Kumar Reddy as a replacement. Reddy, a right-handed all-rounder, was originally part of the Test squad but had been released ahead of this match to join the India A team for a white-ball series against South Africa A in Rajkot.

The captain will travel to Guwahati, where the second Test will be played between India and South Africa from November 22, but his participation in the match still hangs in balance

Days before the second Test between India and South Africa in Guwahati, starting on Saturday (November 22), the Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI) on Wednesday (November 19) provided latest update on India Test captain Shubman Gill. The right-hand opener, who suffered a neck sprain while batting during the first innings of the Kolkata Test and did not take part further in the match, will travel with the team to Guwahati. However, his availability for the match remains unlikely. Also Read: Shai Hope equals Lara and surpasses Viv Richards with record ODI ton against New Zealand Read the post from BCCI here

The captain will travel to Guwahati, where the second Test will be played between India and South Africa from November 22, but his participation in the match still hangs in balance

Shubman Gill injury update: BCCI shares new development on captain's participation in second Test

New Zealand batter Daryl Mitchell has replaced Rohit Sharma as the top batter in latest ODI rankings. Mitchell is only the second Kiwi batter ever to rise to the top of ICC ODI batting rankings. Before Mitchell, Glenn Turner was at the top the ICC ODI batting rankings back in 1979. Mitchell reached the pinnacle after a century in the first of three ODIs against West Indies which helped New Zealand win the match as well. The batter, however, was ruled out of the remainder of the series after picking groin strain during his innings of 119 of 118 balls in the first ODI.<h2>Mitchell becomes only second Kiwi ever to top ICC ODI batting rankings</h2>Mitchell made his debut only four years back in 2021 and has played only 56 ODIs for the Blackcaps so far. The batter has scored 2,338 runs at an impressive average of 53 with seven tons and 11 fifties. He has done was great New Zealand players like Ross Taylor, Stephen Fleming, Martin Guptill and even Kane Williamson could not achieve for New Zealand.Also Read - <a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/shai-hope-equals-lara-and-surpasses-viv-richards-with-record-odi-ton-against-new-zealand-1763544792800">Shai Hope equals Lara and surpasses Viv Richards with record ODI ton against New Zealand</a>Glenn Turner, who was the last Kiwi batter to top ICC ODI Batting Rankings, played only 41 50-over matches in his career and scored 1,598 runs at an average of 47 with three tons and nine fifties. His runs may be less but his average is exceptional in current era as well, let alone 1979 and same is the case for his ODI best of 171 not out.<h2>Who are latest top 10 ODI batters?</h2>With Mitchell at the top, former India skipper Rohit Sharma has slid to the second spot with Afghanistan's Ibrahim Zadran behind him. Shubman Gill and Virat Kohli complete top five as Pakistan's Babar Azam and Ireland's Harry Tector take the next two spot. India's Shreyas Iyer is one spot up at number eight with Sri Lanka's Charith Asalanka and West Indies' Shai Hope completing top 10.

Mitchell reached the pinnacle after a century in the first of three ODIs against West Indies which helped New Zealand win the match as well. The batter, however, was ruled out of the remainder of the series after picking groin strain during his innings of 119 of 118 balls in the first ODI.

New Zealand batter Daryl Mitchell has replaced Rohit Sharma as the top batter in latest ODI rankings. Mitchell is only the second Kiwi batter ever to rise to the top of ICC ODI batting rankings. Before Mitchell, Glenn Turner was at the top the ICC ODI batting rankings back in 1979. Mitchell reached the pinnacle after a century in the first of three ODIs against West Indies which helped New Zealand win the match as well. The batter, however, was ruled out of the remainder of the series after picking groin strain during his innings of 119 of 118 balls in the first ODI. Mitchell becomes only second Kiwi ever to top ICC ODI batting rankings Mitchell made his debut only four years back in 2021 and has played only 56 ODIs for the Blackcaps so far. The batter has scored 2,338 runs at an impressive average of 53 with seven tons and 11 fifties. He has done was great New Zealand players like Ross Taylor, Stephen Fleming, Martin Guptill and even Kane Williamson could not achieve for New Zealand. Also Read - Shai Hope equals Lara and surpasses Viv Richards with record ODI ton against New Zealand Glenn Turner, who was the last Kiwi batter to top ICC ODI Batting Rankings, played only 41 50-over matches in his career and scored 1,598 runs at an average of 47 with three tons and nine fifties. His runs may be less but his average is exceptional in current era as well, let alone 1979 and same is the case for his ODI best of 171 not out. Who are latest top 10 ODI batters? With Mitchell at the top, former India skipper Rohit Sharma has slid to the second spot with Afghanistan's Ibrahim Zadran behind him. Shubman Gill and Virat Kohli complete top five as Pakistan's Babar Azam and Ireland's Harry Tector take the next two spot. India's Shreyas Iyer is one spot up at number eight with Sri Lanka's Charith Asalanka and West Indies' Shai Hope completing top 10.

Mitchell reached the pinnacle after a century in the first of three ODIs against West Indies which helped New Zealand win the match as well. Mitchell made his debut only four years back in 2021 and has played only 56 ODIs for the Blackcaps so far.

ICC ODI Batting Rankings: Daryl Mitchell becomes only second New Zealand batter ever to take top spot

West Indies batter Shai Hope, with a century in the second ODI against New Zealand on Wednesday (Nov 19), equalled legendary batter Brian Lara's record of most ODI tons for the team. With 19 tons, Hope now in second on the list of most ODI tons for West Indies - same as Lara. While Hope reached the milestone in 142nd innings of the 147th ODI, Lara played 285 innings in 295 matches for the same number of tons. Chris Gayle tops the list for West Indies with 25 ODI tons in 291 innings of 298 matches.<h2>Hope ton powers West Indies innings</h2>In the rain-interrupted match which was reduced to 34-over each side, Hope anchored the West Indies innings. He finished not out at 109 not out and during his innings, Hope also crossed 6,000 ODI runs. He also became the fastest to reach the milestone, surpassing former West Indies great Viv Richards. Hope crossed 6k-run mark in 147 ODIs, while Richards had done so in 156 matches. In terms of innings, Hope took just one more than Richards' 141. Thanks to Hope, West Indies finished at a strong score of 247/9 in 34 overs.Also Read - <a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/icc-hands-pakistan-batter-babar-azam-punishment-for-breach-of-code-of-conduct-1763530704600">ICC hands Pakistan batter Babar Azam punishment for breach of Code of Conduct</a><h2>New Zealand clinch series with thrilling win</h2>The Kiwis were set up beautifully in the chase despite a slow start as openers Devon Conway (90) and Rachin Ravindra (56) added 106 runs for the first wicket. West Indies pulled back after that with three quick wickets to bring Kiwis at 166/4 in 25.3 overs. In last five over, New Zealand needed 54 runs but lost a wicket on the very first ball of the 30 deliveries remaining. Skipper Mitchell Santner (34 not out off 15) and Tom Latham (39 not out off 29) took the team home by five wickets with three balls to spare. With the win, New Zealand took 2-0 lead in the three-match series with last ODI to be played on Saturday (Nov 22).

With 19 tons, Hope now in second on the list of most ODI tons for West Indies - same as Lara. Hope also crossed 6,000 ODI runs and became the fastest to reach the milestone, surpassing former West Indies great Viv Richards.

West Indies batter Shai Hope, with a century in the second ODI against New Zealand on Wednesday (Nov 19), equalled legendary batter Brian Lara's record of most ODI tons for the team. With 19 tons, Hope now in second on the list of most ODI tons for West Indies - same as Lara. While Hope reached the milestone in 142nd innings of the 147th ODI, Lara played 285 innings in 295 matches for the same number of tons. Chris Gayle tops the list for West Indies with 25 ODI tons in 291 innings of 298 matches. Hope ton powers West Indies innings In the rain-interrupted match which was reduced to 34-over each side, Hope anchored the West Indies innings. He finished not out at 109 not out and during his innings, Hope also crossed 6,000 ODI runs. He also became the fastest to reach the milestone, surpassing former West Indies great Viv Richards. Hope crossed 6k-run mark in 147 ODIs, while Richards had done so in 156 matches. In terms of innings, Hope took just one more than Richards' 141. Thanks to Hope, West Indies finished at a strong score of 247/9 in 34 overs. Also Read - ICC hands Pakistan batter Babar Azam punishment for breach of Code of Conduct New Zealand clinch series with thrilling win The Kiwis were set up beautifully in the chase despite a slow start as openers Devon Conway (90) and Rachin Ravindra (56) added 106 runs for the first wicket. West Indies pulled back after that with three quick wickets to bring Kiwis at 166/4 in 25.3 overs. In last five over, New Zealand needed 54 runs but lost a wicket on the very first ball of the 30 deliveries remaining. Skipper Mitchell Santner (34 not out off 15) and Tom Latham (39 not out off 29) took the team home by five wickets with three balls to spare. With the win, New Zealand took 2-0 lead in the three-match series with last ODI to be played on Saturday (Nov 22).

With 19 tons, Hope now in second on the list of most ODI tons for West Indies - same as Lara. Hope also crossed 6,000 ODI runs and became the fastest to reach the milestone, surpassing former West Indies great Viv Richards.

Shai Hope equals Lara and surpasses Viv Richards with record ODI ton against New Zealand

Shai Hope scored his 19th ODI century against New Zealand on Wednesday (Nov 19), moving up to second place on the West Indies list for most centuries in the format. Now let’s take a quick look at the five players with the most ODI tons for the West Indies.

Shai Hope scored his 19th ODI century against New Zealand on Wednesday (Nov 19), moving up to second place on the West Indies list for most centuries in the format. Now let’s take a quick look at the five players with the most ODI tons for the West Indies.

Most ODI tons for West Indies: Hope matches Lara, full leaderboard here

During a Ranji Trophy match between Meghalaya and Manipur, Meghalaya batter Lamabam Singh was dismissed rarely after hitting the ball twice. Now let’s take a quick look at the five players who have fallen to this unusual dismissal.

During a Ranji Trophy match between Meghalaya and Manipur, Meghalaya batter Lamabam Singh was dismissed rarely after hitting the ball twice. Now let’s take a quick look at the five players who have fallen to this unusual dismissal.

5 Ranji Trophy players dismissed for hitting the ball twice: Full list inside

Portuguese soccer star Cristiano Ronaldo attended the black-tie dinner on Tuesday (Nov 18) night at the White House hosted by US President Donald Trump for Saudi Arabia crown price Mohammed Bin Salman. Ronaldo, one of the best ever to play the game, currently plays for Al Nassr in Saudi Pro League and has become the face of modernaisation in the country - an initiative by the Saudi crown price and de facto leader. This is Ronaldo's first known US visit since 2016.<h2>Trump says son Barron respects him more after meeting Ronaldo</h2>President Trump, told the dinner guests at the White House while turning to Ronaldo: “My son is a big fan of Ronaldo. And Baron (Trump) got to meet him, and I think he respects his father a little bit more now, just the fact that I introduced you.”

<blockquote class="twitter-tweet" data-media-max-width="560">Football icon and Al-Nassr club&#39;s Cristiano Ronaldo attends White House dinner honouring Saudi Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman<a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/CristianoRonaldo?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#CristianoRonaldo</a> <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/DonaldTrump?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#DonaldTrump</a> <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/SaudiArabia?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#SaudiArabia</a> <a href="https://t.co/7D6i7xtfQe">pic.twitter.com/7D6i7xtfQe</a>&mdash; WION (@WIONews) <a href="https://twitter.com/WIONews/status/1991044447333986382?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">November 19, 2025</a></blockquote> <script async src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script>

Also Read - <a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/icc-hands-pakistan-batter-babar-azam-punishment-for-breach-of-code-of-conduct-1763530704600">ICC hands Pakistan batter Babar Azam punishment for breach of Code of Conduct</a>Along with Ronaldo, tech billionaire Elon Musk also attended the event. This was the first time Musk was at White House since quitting his role in Trump admin as the head of Department for Government Efficiency (Doge) in April earlier this year. A public feud played out between Musk and Trump on social media before the businessman quit his role.<h2>Ronaldo face of Saudi's new look</h2>Ever since the Portuguese joined Al Nassr in 2023, he has been the face of oil-rich country's new look under the crown prince. Ronaldo's club Al Nassr in Saudi Pro League is owned by the country's Public Investment Fund (PIF) which is chaired by price Salman. Saudi has invested heavily in sports to boost tourism in the country with major sports being football and LIV Golf. The middle-eastern country will also be hosting the 2034 FIFA World Cup as well.

Along with Ronaldo, tech billionaire Elon Musk also attended the event. This was the first time Musk was at White House since quitting his role in Trump admin as the head of Department for Government Efficiency (Doge) in April earlier this year.

Portuguese soccer star Cristiano Ronaldo attended the black-tie dinner on Tuesday (Nov 18) night at the White House hosted by US President Donald Trump for Saudi Arabia crown price Mohammed Bin Salman. Ronaldo, one of the best ever to play the game, currently plays for Al Nassr in Saudi Pro League and has become the face of modernaisation in the country - an initiative by the Saudi crown price and de facto leader. This is Ronaldo's first known US visit since 2016. Trump says son Barron respects him more after meeting Ronaldo President Trump, told the dinner guests at the White House while turning to Ronaldo: “My son is a big fan of Ronaldo. And Baron (Trump) got to meet him, and I think he respects his father a little bit more now, just the fact that I introduced you.”

Along with Ronaldo, tech billionaire Elon Musk also attended the event. This was the first time Musk was at White House since quitting his role in Trump admin as the head of Department for Government Efficiency (Doge) in April earlier this year.

Trump earns 'little more' respect from son for introduction to Ronaldo at White House dinner for Saudi crown prince Salman

Pakistan batter Babar Azam had a horrible outing against Zimbabwe in the first match of the tri-series which also involves Sri Lanka. The match played at Rawalpindi saw Pakistan winning by five wickets but Babar was out on a duck during the chase. to add to his woes, the ICC has fined Babar for hitting the stumps in anger before leaving the field during recently-played third ODI of the three-match series against Sri Lanka. The Pakistan batter was not only fined monetarily but also handed a demerit point for his conduct unbecoming of player as per the ICC rules.<h2>Babar fined and handed demerit point by ICC</h2>The incident happened on November 16 in the 21st over of Pak's chase when Babar tried defend a ball by leg spinner Jeffrey Vandersay but missed it and the ball uprooted his off stump.Also Read - <a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/ranji-trophy-manipur-batter-lamabam-singh-given-out-for-hitting-the-ball-twice-1763526950273">Ranji Trophy: Manipur batter Lamabam Singh gets 'rarest of rare dismissal' because of umpire's unawareness</a>After the dismissal, Babar was clearly not happy, lost his cool and hit the stumps in anger. He was found in breach of Article 2.2 of the ICC Code of Conduct for Players and Player Support Personnel, pertaining to “abuse of cricket equipment or clothing, ground equipment or fixtures and fittings during an International Match.”He was fined 10 per cent of the match fees in addition to a demerit point as well - his first in 24-month period. Pakistan, however, won the the match comfortably to win the series 3-0. Babar scored 165 runs in the series - joint most along with Fakhar Zaman. Babar, however, scored the runs at an average of 82 in comparison to 55 by Fakhar. The former Pak skipper also ended his century drought in the series - scoring his 20th ODI ton in the second ODI of the series - also the joint most for his country alongside former opener Saeed Anwar.

After the dismissal, Babar was clearly not happy, lost his cool and hit the stumps in anger. He was found in breach of Article 2.2 of the ICC Code of Conduct for Players and Player Support Personnel.

Pakistan batter Babar Azam had a horrible outing against Zimbabwe in the first match of the tri-series which also involves Sri Lanka. The match played at Rawalpindi saw Pakistan winning by five wickets but Babar was out on a duck during the chase. to add to his woes, the ICC has fined Babar for hitting the stumps in anger before leaving the field during recently-played third ODI of the three-match series against Sri Lanka. The Pakistan batter was not only fined monetarily but also handed a demerit point for his conduct unbecoming of player as per the ICC rules. Babar fined and handed demerit point by ICC The incident happened on November 16 in the 21st over of Pak's chase when Babar tried defend a ball by leg spinner Jeffrey Vandersay but missed it and the ball uprooted his off stump. Also Read - Ranji Trophy: Manipur batter Lamabam Singh gets 'rarest of rare dismissal' because of umpire's unawareness After the dismissal, Babar was clearly not happy, lost his cool and hit the stumps in anger. He was found in breach of Article 2.2 of the ICC Code of Conduct for Players and Player Support Personnel, pertaining to “abuse of cricket equipment or clothing, ground equipment or fixtures and fittings during an International Match.” He was fined 10 per cent of the match fees in addition to a demerit point as well - his first in 24-month period. Pakistan, however, won the the match comfortably to win the series 3-0. Babar scored 165 runs in the series - joint most along with Fakhar Zaman. Babar, however, scored the runs at an average of 82 in comparison to 55 by Fakhar. The former Pak skipper also ended his century drought in the series - scoring his 20th ODI ton in the second ODI of the series - also the joint most for his country alongside former opener Saeed Anwar.

After the dismissal, Babar was clearly not happy, lost his cool and hit the stumps in anger. He was found in breach of Article 2.2 of the ICC Code of Conduct for Players and Player Support Personnel.

ICC hands Pakistan batter Babar Azam punishment for breach of Code of Conduct

In what can now be considered an unfortunate incident, India's domestic team Manipur's batter Lamabam Singh was given out for hitting the ball twice during the Ranji Trophy, country's premier domestic red-ball tournament, match against Meghalaya. The circumstances of the matter were very bizarre to say the least as the batter had tried to stop the ball from hitting the stumps which is allowed as per the ICC laws. Nonetheless, Singh now became only the fifth batter in Ranji Trophy history and first since Jammu &amp; Kashmir captain Dhruv Mahajan in 2005-06 to be given out for hitting the ball twice.<h2>How was Lamabam Singh given out?</h2>Lamabam defended a delivery from Meghalaya's Aryan Bora but the ball started to go towards the stumps, reported ESPNCricinfo citing sources. The batter then used his bat to stop the ball from hitting the stumps. The opposition appealed and the umpire gave Singh out who didn't protest and walked out.Also Read - <a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/india-s-loss-against-south-africa-was-fourth-in-last-six-home-tests-their-worst-record-since-1972-1763465079981">India's loss vs SA was fourth in last six home Tests - worst record since 1972</a>Before him, Andhra's K Bavanna (1963-64), J&amp;K's Shahid Parvez (1986-87), Tamil Nadu's Anand George (1998-99) and Jammu &amp; Kashmir's Dhruv Mahajan (2005-06) were given out in the similar fashion.<h2>What does MCC rule say about it?</h2>According to the rules, MCC's clause 34.1.1 states: "A striker is out 'hit the ball twice' if, while the ball is in play, it makes contact with any part of their body or bat, and the striker then wilfully strikes it a second time with the bat or with any part of the body (other than a hand not holding the bat), before a fielder touches the ball - except when the second strike is solely to protect their wicket."The batter was clearly within his rights to stop the ball from hitting the stumps using the bat but unawareness about the rule from him and umpire, both resulted in him being out.&nbsp;

The batter was clearly within his rights to stop the ball from hitting the stumps using the bat but unawareness about the rule from him and umpire, both resulted in him being out. 

In what can now be considered an unfortunate incident, India's domestic team Manipur's batter Lamabam Singh was given out for hitting the ball twice during the Ranji Trophy, country's premier domestic red-ball tournament, match against Meghalaya. The circumstances of the matter were very bizarre to say the least as the batter had tried to stop the ball from hitting the stumps which is allowed as per the ICC laws. Nonetheless, Singh now became only the fifth batter in Ranji Trophy history and first since Jammu & Kashmir captain Dhruv Mahajan in 2005-06 to be given out for hitting the ball twice. How was Lamabam Singh given out? Lamabam defended a delivery from Meghalaya's Aryan Bora but the ball started to go towards the stumps, reported ESPNCricinfo citing sources. The batter then used his bat to stop the ball from hitting the stumps. The opposition appealed and the umpire gave Singh out who didn't protest and walked out. Also Read - India's loss vs SA was fourth in last six home Tests - worst record since 1972 Before him, Andhra's K Bavanna (1963-64), J&K's Shahid Parvez (1986-87), Tamil Nadu's Anand George (1998-99) and Jammu & Kashmir's Dhruv Mahajan (2005-06) were given out in the similar fashion. What does MCC rule say about it? According to the rules, MCC's clause 34.1.1 states: "A striker is out 'hit the ball twice' if, while the ball is in play, it makes contact with any part of their body or bat, and the striker then wilfully strikes it a second time with the bat or with any part of the body (other than a hand not holding the bat), before a fielder touches the ball - except when the second strike is solely to protect their wicket." The batter was clearly within his rights to stop the ball from hitting the stumps using the bat but unawareness about the rule from him and umpire, both resulted in him being out.

The batter was clearly within his rights to stop the ball from hitting the stumps using the bat but unawareness about the rule from him and umpire, both resulted in him being out.&nbsp;

Ranji Trophy: Manipur batter Lamabam Singh gets 'rarest of rare dismissal' because of umpire's unawareness

The tiny Caribbean nation of Curacao became the smallest country ever to qualify for the World Cup on Tuesday as Haiti booked their return to the tournament for the first time in 52 years along with Panama. A nerve-shredding finale to the CONCACAF qualifying campaign saw Curacao -- with a population of just 156,000 -- squeeze into next year's finals in the United States, Canada and Mexico with a 0-0 draw against Jamaica in Kingston. Haiti, meanwhile, who last appeared in the World Cup in 1974, also completed an improbable qualification campaign with a 2-0 win over Nicaragua.Ironically, Haiti secured their decisive qualification victory in Curacao, where the team have been forced to play their home qualifiers due to unrest in their homeland.Also Read - <a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/germany-netherland-book-fifa-world-cup-2026-spots-with-cruising-wins-1763438257176">Germany, Netherland book FIFA World Cup 2026 spots with cruising wins</a>Panama, meanwhile, grabbed the other automatic qualification spot on offer on Tuesday with a 3-0 win over El Salvador at home.That victory ended Suriname's hopes of grabbing automatic qualification. Suriname, beaten 3-1 away by Guatemala, nevertheless squeezed into the playoff places.Curacao, whose veteran Dutch coach Dick Advocaat was forced to miss the game due to a family issue in the Netherlands, were left celebrating a historic result.The team known as the 'Blue Wave' finished top of Group B with 12 points from six games, one point clear of Jamaica.Curacao are by far the smallest nation ever to qualify for the World Cup, which is being expanded to 48 teams next year for the first time.The previous smallest country to qualify for the tournament were Iceland in 2018, with a population of around 350,000.

A nerve-shredding finale to the CONCACAF qualifying campaign saw Curacao -- with a population of just 156,000 -- squeeze into next year's finals in the United States, Canada and Mexico with a 0-0 draw against Jamaica in Kingston.

The tiny Caribbean nation of Curacao became the smallest country ever to qualify for the World Cup on Tuesday as Haiti booked their return to the tournament for the first time in 52 years along with Panama. A nerve-shredding finale to the CONCACAF qualifying campaign saw Curacao -- with a population of just 156,000 -- squeeze into next year's finals in the United States, Canada and Mexico with a 0-0 draw against Jamaica in Kingston. Haiti, meanwhile, who last appeared in the World Cup in 1974, also completed an improbable qualification campaign with a 2-0 win over Nicaragua. Ironically, Haiti secured their decisive qualification victory in Curacao, where the team have been forced to play their home qualifiers due to unrest in their homeland. Also Read - Germany, Netherland book FIFA World Cup 2026 spots with cruising wins Panama, meanwhile, grabbed the other automatic qualification spot on offer on Tuesday with a 3-0 win over El Salvador at home. That victory ended Suriname's hopes of grabbing automatic qualification. Suriname, beaten 3-1 away by Guatemala, nevertheless squeezed into the playoff places. Curacao, whose veteran Dutch coach Dick Advocaat was forced to miss the game due to a family issue in the Netherlands, were left celebrating a historic result. The team known as the 'Blue Wave' finished top of Group B with 12 points from six games, one point clear of Jamaica. Curacao are by far the smallest nation ever to qualify for the World Cup, which is being expanded to 48 teams next year for the first time. The previous smallest country to qualify for the tournament were Iceland in 2018, with a population of around 350,000.

A nerve-shredding finale to the CONCACAF qualifying campaign saw Curacao -- with a population of just 156,000 -- squeeze into next year's finals in the United States, Canada and Mexico with a 0-0 draw against Jamaica in Kingston.

Caribbean Curacao scripts history with FIFA World Cup 2026 spot, Haiti and Panama also through

India suffered a 0-1 defeat in their AFC Asian Cup Saudi Arabia 2027 Qualifiers Group C match against hosts Bangladesh at the National Stadium in Dhaka on Tuesday.A first-half goal by Shekh Morsalin (12') was enough to see the home side take the three points, though the Blue Tigers mounted a barrage of attacks on Bangladesh in the second half, as per the AIFF website.&nbsp;Singapore, who defeated Hong Kong, China 2-1 earlier in the day in Hong Kong, sealed the group's top spot with 11 points and qualified for the Asian Cup. Hong Kong are in second place with eight points. Bangladesh and India are third and fourth with five and two points, respectively.&nbsp;Lallianzuala Chhangte played his 50th international match on Tuesday, while India head coach Khalid Jamil handed debuts to Mohammed Sanan and Lalremtluanga Fanai, bringing the two on from the bench.&nbsp;After a seesaw start at the National Stadium, Bangladesh broke with speed on the counter, having cleared an India long throw. Rakib Hossain harried down the left and sent a low centre to an unmarked Morsalin, who slipped it past India goalkeeper Gurpreet Singh Sandhu.&nbsp;India were taken by surprise but soon regained composure and began to construct their attacks. Suresh Singh Wangjam scuffed a 17th-minute shot from outside the box after latching onto a clearance, while Nikhil Prabhu had his long-range effort blocked soon after.&nbsp;India's best chance came just after the half-hour mark, when striker Rahim Ali did well to close down Bangladesh goalkeeper Mitul Marma and win the ball. The India forward played it back to Macarton Louis Nickson, who laid it off to Lallianzuala Chhangte for a crack at an empty goal. However, Bangladesh midfielder Hamza Choudhury intervened, putting his head in the way of the shot.&nbsp;The Blue Tigers grew in confidence, and their attacks showed as much. Anwar Ali connected well with a Chhangte corner in the 35th minute, but it was cleared once again. Minutes later, Anwar was involved again when he flicked on a Rahul Bheke long throw for Rahim, who attempted an outrageous back-volley, only to scuff the effort.&nbsp;Choudhury produced a volley on the stroke of half-time against the run of play, but sent it just wide of the post.&nbsp;ALSO READ | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/photos/from-steve-smith-to-joe-root-5-active-batters-with-most-runs-in-ashes-ben-stokes-jonny-bairstow-usman-khawaja-1762275784636">From Steve Smith to Joe Root, 5 active batters with most runs in Ashes</a>&nbsp;India came out with more intent in the second half, as Jamil introduced Mahesh Singh Naorem in place of Prabhu. The substitution brought immediate impact, with Mahesh using his creativity to trouble the Bangladesh defence.&nbsp;Suresh whipped a free-kick from the left into the box, which was headed goalwards by Bheke, with Rahim waiting at the goalmouth to turn it in. However, Bangladesh's defenders managed to clear the danger before the heavily guarded forward could reach the ball.&nbsp;The introduction of Sanan created further opportunities for India, as the winger used his trickery and awareness on the left flank. Receiving a pass from Rahim in the 66th minute, Sanan dummied his marker to cut inside and shoot, but his effort was saved.&nbsp;ALSO READ | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/photos/from-leonard-hutton-to-don-bradman-5-batters-with-highest-individual-score-in-ashes-bob-simpson-bob-cowper-ashes-2025-26-1762276944046">From Leonard Hutton to Don Bradman, 5 batters with highest individual score in Ashes</a>&nbsp;A minute later, the winger hung a beautiful cross from the left towards an unmarked Brison Fernandes, who headed wide. With around 15 minutes left, Sanan had yet another opportunity when the ball fell kindly to him after a melee at a corner. The 21-year-old volleyed it with his side-foot, aiming for the bottom corner, but Marma was alert and tipped it away.&nbsp;Amid the array of Indian attacks, Bangladesh looked to create a few counters of their own and came close to doubling their lead in the 79th minute when Topu Barman's strike from outside the box was collected by a diving Gurpreet.&nbsp;As Bangladesh sought a two-goal cushion, India launched counterattacks of its own. One such move in the 84th minute saw Vikram Partap Singh and Brison Fernandes charge at the Bangladesh area. Vikram, who had possession, was pulled back, though play continued.&nbsp;Despite a frantic finish, the Bangladesh defence held firm to secure the three points against the Blue Tigers.&nbsp;India will face Hong Kong in their last AFC Asian Cup 2027 Qualifiers Final Round match on March 31, 2026&nbsp;Disclaimer: This story has been published from a news agency feed with minimal edits to adhere to WION's style guide. The headline may have been changed to better reflect the content of the story or to make it more suitable for WION audience.

Singapore, who defeated Hong Kong, China 2-1 earlier in the day in Hong Kong, sealed the group's top spot with 11 points and qualified for the Asian Cup. Hong Kong are in second place with eight points. Bangladesh and India are third and fourth with five and two points, respectively.

India suffered a 0-1 defeat in their AFC Asian Cup Saudi Arabia 2027 Qualifiers Group C match against hosts Bangladesh at the National Stadium in Dhaka on Tuesday. A first-half goal by Shekh Morsalin (12') was enough to see the home side take the three points, though the Blue Tigers mounted a barrage of attacks on Bangladesh in the second half, as per the AIFF website. Singapore, who defeated Hong Kong, China 2-1 earlier in the day in Hong Kong, sealed the group's top spot with 11 points and qualified for the Asian Cup. Hong Kong are in second place with eight points. Bangladesh and India are third and fourth with five and two points, respectively. Lallianzuala Chhangte played his 50th international match on Tuesday, while India head coach Khalid Jamil handed debuts to Mohammed Sanan and Lalremtluanga Fanai, bringing the two on from the bench. After a seesaw start at the National Stadium, Bangladesh broke with speed on the counter, having cleared an India long throw. Rakib Hossain harried down the left and sent a low centre to an unmarked Morsalin, who slipped it past India goalkeeper Gurpreet Singh Sandhu. India were taken by surprise but soon regained composure and began to construct their attacks. Suresh Singh Wangjam scuffed a 17th-minute shot from outside the box after latching onto a clearance, while Nikhil Prabhu had his long-range effort blocked soon after. India's best chance came just after the half-hour mark, when striker Rahim Ali did well to close down Bangladesh goalkeeper Mitul Marma and win the ball. The India forward played it back to Macarton Louis Nickson, who laid it off to Lallianzuala Chhangte for a crack at an empty goal. However, Bangladesh midfielder Hamza Choudhury intervened, putting his head in the way of the shot. The Blue Tigers grew in confidence, and their attacks showed as much. Anwar Ali connected well with a Chhangte corner in the 35th minute, but it was cleared once again. Minutes later, Anwar was involved again when he flicked on a Rahul Bheke long throw for Rahim, who attempted an outrageous back-volley, only to scuff the effort. Choudhury produced a volley on the stroke of half-time against the run of play, but sent it just wide of the post. ALSO READ | From Steve Smith to Joe Root, 5 active batters with most runs in Ashes India came out with more intent in the second half, as Jamil introduced Mahesh Singh Naorem in place of Prabhu. The substitution brought immediate impact, with Mahesh using his creativity to trouble the Bangladesh defence. Suresh whipped a free-kick from the left into the box, which was headed goalwards by Bheke, with Rahim waiting at the goalmouth to turn it in. However, Bangladesh's defenders managed to clear the danger before the heavily guarded forward could reach the ball. The introduction of Sanan created further opportunities for India, as the winger used his trickery and awareness on the left flank. Receiving a pass from Rahim in the 66th minute, Sanan dummied his marker to cut inside and shoot, but his effort was saved. ALSO READ | From Leonard Hutton to Don Bradman, 5 batters with highest individual score in Ashes A minute later, the winger hung a beautiful cross from the left towards an unmarked Brison Fernandes, who headed wide. With around 15 minutes left, Sanan had yet another opportunity when the ball fell kindly to him after a melee at a corner. The 21-year-old volleyed it with his side-foot, aiming for the bottom corner, but Marma was alert and tipped it away. Amid the array of Indian attacks, Bangladesh looked to create a few counters of their own and came close to doubling their lead in the 79th minute when Topu Barman's strike from outside the box was collected by a diving Gurpreet. As Bangladesh sought a two-goal cushion, India launched counterattacks of its own. One such move in the 84th minute saw Vikram Partap Singh and Brison Fernandes charge at the Bangladesh area. Vikram, who had possession, was pulled back, though play continued. Despite a frantic finish, the Bangladesh defence held firm to secure the three points against the Blue Tigers. India will face Hong Kong in their last AFC Asian Cup 2027 Qualifiers Final Round match on March 31, 2026 Disclaimer: This story has been published from a news agency feed with minimal edits to adhere to WION's style guide. The headline may have been changed to better reflect the content of the story or to make it more suitable for WION audience.

Singapore, who defeated Hong Kong, China 2-1 earlier in the day in Hong Kong, sealed the group's top spot with 11 points and qualified for the Asian Cup. Hong Kong are in second place with eight points. Bangladesh and India are third and fourth with five and two points, respectively.

AFC Asian Cup 2027 Qualifiers: India suffer embarrassing defeat to Bangladesh

Team India is all set to host South Africa in the second Test match starting Saturday (Nov 22) as they collide in a high-stakes contest. While the cricketing fraternity is still in awe of Temba Bavuma and his side, focus has quickly shifted to Guwahati, which is the host for the second Test. The venue will come with a twist of changes, something that has caught the eyes of many. For the first time, there will be a change in schedule for a day Test match with Tea break being the first occurrence, followed by lunch.<h2>Guwahati set for unique occasion</h2>As announced earlier and decided by the Assam Cricket Association (ACA) and the Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI), the upcoming Test will feature a unique pattern. Considering the geographical position of Guwahati, Saturday’s Test match will start 30 minutes earlier than the standard scheduled time of 9:30 am in India. This change has been made to accommodate maximum overs during daylight and avoid any considerable loss as the sun sets early in the Eastern part of India compared to other parts.&nbsp;ALSO READ | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/photos/from-steve-smith-to-joe-root-5-active-batters-with-most-runs-in-ashes-ben-stokes-jonny-bairstow-usman-khawaja-1762275784636">From Steve Smith to Joe Root, 5 active batters with most runs in Ashes</a>&nbsp;The change will therefore lead to an overhaul in cricket’s Test match schedule system. The revised session timings for the Guwahati Test remain as follows:&nbsp;First session – 9:00 am to 11:00 am ISTTea Break – 11:00 am to 11:20 am ISTSecond session – 11:20 am to 1:20 pm ISTLunch break – 1:20 pm to 2:00 pm ISTFinal session – 2:00 pm to 4:00 pm IST&nbsp;The above schedule is one of its kind and is used considering the geography of the city.&nbsp;ALSO READ | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/photos/from-leonard-hutton-to-don-bradman-5-batters-with-highest-individual-score-in-ashes-bob-simpson-bob-cowper-ashes-2025-26-1762276944046">From Leonard Hutton to Don Bradman, 5 batters with highest individual score in Ashes</a><h2>England’s influence in cricket</h2>While the date remains unknown, traditionally, Test matches in England during the summer start at 11:00 am. By the time the two-hour session comes to an end, it is 1:00 pm and perfect for lunch. Similarly, the second break takes place at 3:40 pm, perfect for tea. The same system remained in use and was widely adopted during all international matches in red-ball format.&nbsp;However, with logic coming into play and local geography influencing the timings, it was the perfect time for ACA to pitch in a new idea and break England’s monopoly.

As announced earlier and decided by the Assam Cricket Association (ACA) and the Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI), the upcoming Test will feature a unique pattern. 

Team India is all set to host South Africa in the second Test match starting Saturday (Nov 22) as they collide in a high-stakes contest. While the cricketing fraternity is still in awe of Temba Bavuma and his side, focus has quickly shifted to Guwahati, which is the host for the second Test. The venue will come with a twist of changes, something that has caught the eyes of many. For the first time, there will be a change in schedule for a day Test match with Tea break being the first occurrence, followed by lunch. Guwahati set for unique occasion As announced earlier and decided by the Assam Cricket Association (ACA) and the Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI), the upcoming Test will feature a unique pattern. Considering the geographical position of Guwahati, Saturday’s Test match will start 30 minutes earlier than the standard scheduled time of 9:30 am in India. This change has been made to accommodate maximum overs during daylight and avoid any considerable loss as the sun sets early in the Eastern part of India compared to other parts. ALSO READ | From Steve Smith to Joe Root, 5 active batters with most runs in Ashes The change will therefore lead to an overhaul in cricket’s Test match schedule system. The revised session timings for the Guwahati Test remain as follows: First session – 9:00 am to 11:00 am IST Tea Break – 11:00 am to 11:20 am IST Second session – 11:20 am to 1:20 pm IST Lunch break – 1:20 pm to 2:00 pm IST Final session – 2:00 pm to 4:00 pm IST The above schedule is one of its kind and is used considering the geography of the city. ALSO READ | From Leonard Hutton to Don Bradman, 5 batters with highest individual score in Ashes England’s influence in cricket While the date remains unknown, traditionally, Test matches in England during the summer start at 11:00 am. By the time the two-hour session comes to an end, it is 1:00 pm and perfect for lunch. Similarly, the second break takes place at 3:40 pm, perfect for tea. The same system remained in use and was widely adopted during all international matches in red-ball format. However, with logic coming into play and local geography influencing the timings, it was the perfect time for ACA to pitch in a new idea and break England’s monopoly.

As announced earlier and decided by the Assam Cricket Association (ACA) and the Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI), the upcoming Test will feature a unique pattern.&nbsp;

Explained: Why Guwahati Test is breaking traditions ahead of the India-South Africa high stakes contest

An Argentine judge was relieved of her post on Tuesday after causing a mistrial in the negligence case against late football legend Diego Maradona's medical team due to her involvement in a documentary about it.&nbsp;A special panel of judges, lawyers and provincial legislators dismissed Julieta Makintach, 48, from her post and disqualified her from holding any other judicial position in the future.&nbsp;Makintach was one of three judges in the now-annulled trial that followed Maradona's death in 2020 while recovering from brain surgery for a blood clot after decades battling cocaine and alcohol addictions.&nbsp;She recused herself after it emerged she had been interviewed for a miniseries about the case, potentially breaking a string of ethics rules.&nbsp;ALSO READ | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/photos/from-steve-smith-to-joe-root-5-active-batters-with-most-runs-in-ashes-ben-stokes-jonny-bairstow-usman-khawaja-1762275784636">From Steve Smith to Joe Root, 5 active batters with most runs in Ashes</a>&nbsp;Maradona died on November 25, 2020, aged 60, of heart failure and acute pulmonary edema two weeks after going under the knife.&nbsp;He was found dead in his bed by a day nurse.&nbsp;Maradona's medical team is on trial over the conditions of his convalescence at a private home.&nbsp;Prosecutors have described the football icon's care in his last days as grossly negligent.The defendants risk prison terms between eight and 25 years if convicted of "homicide with possible intent" -- pursuing a course of action despite knowing it could lead to death.&nbsp;ALSO READ | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/photos/from-leonard-hutton-to-don-bradman-5-batters-with-highest-individual-score-in-ashes-bob-simpson-bob-cowper-ashes-2025-26-1762276944046">From Leonard Hutton to Don Bradman, 5 batters with highest individual score in Ashes</a>&nbsp;The case so far has focused on the decision by Maradona's doctors to allow him to recuperate at home with minimal supervision and medical equipment, instead of a medical facility.&nbsp;Makintach had denied participating in, or authorizing, any filming for a documentary about the case, but footage shared in Argentine media showed her allegedly being interviewed by a film crew on the eve of the trial starting.&nbsp;Disclaimer: This story has been published from a news agency feed with minimal edits to adhere to WION's style guide. The headline may have been changed to better reflect the content of the story or to make it more suitable for WION audience.

Julieta Makintach was one of three judges in the now-annulled trial that followed Maradona's death in 2020 while recovering from brain surgery for a blood clot after decades battling cocaine and alcohol addictions.

An Argentine judge was relieved of her post on Tuesday after causing a mistrial in the negligence case against late football legend Diego Maradona's medical team due to her involvement in a documentary about it. A special panel of judges, lawyers and provincial legislators dismissed Julieta Makintach, 48, from her post and disqualified her from holding any other judicial position in the future. Makintach was one of three judges in the now-annulled trial that followed Maradona's death in 2020 while recovering from brain surgery for a blood clot after decades battling cocaine and alcohol addictions. She recused herself after it emerged she had been interviewed for a miniseries about the case, potentially breaking a string of ethics rules. ALSO READ | From Steve Smith to Joe Root, 5 active batters with most runs in Ashes Maradona died on November 25, 2020, aged 60, of heart failure and acute pulmonary edema two weeks after going under the knife. He was found dead in his bed by a day nurse. Maradona's medical team is on trial over the conditions of his convalescence at a private home. Prosecutors have described the football icon's care in his last days as grossly negligent. The defendants risk prison terms between eight and 25 years if convicted of "homicide with possible intent" -- pursuing a course of action despite knowing it could lead to death. ALSO READ | From Leonard Hutton to Don Bradman, 5 batters with highest individual score in Ashes The case so far has focused on the decision by Maradona's doctors to allow him to recuperate at home with minimal supervision and medical equipment, instead of a medical facility. Makintach had denied participating in, or authorizing, any filming for a documentary about the case, but footage shared in Argentine media showed her allegedly being interviewed by a film crew on the eve of the trial starting. Disclaimer: This story has been published from a news agency feed with minimal edits to adhere to WION's style guide. The headline may have been changed to better reflect the content of the story or to make it more suitable for WION audience.

Julieta Makintach was one of three judges in the now-annulled trial that followed Maradona's death in 2020 while recovering from brain surgery for a blood clot after decades battling cocaine and alcohol addictions.

Argentine judge fired after causing mistrial of Diego Maradona's medical team

Arundhati Choudhary delivered one of the most commanding performances of the tournament, stopping Germany’s Leonie Müller—a medallist at all three stages of the 2025 World Boxing Cup—via RSC to headline a sensational Day 3 for India at the Shaheed Vijay Singh Pathik Sports Complex. Arundhati’s statement win set the tone for a flawless session, during which Minakshi, Ankush Phangal, Parveen, and Nupur all booked their places in the finals.&nbsp;Arundhati, the former Youth World Champion and Strandja medalist, competing after a 1.5-year break, showed no signs of rust. She controlled both opening rounds with clean aggression, dropped the German powerhouse once in the second, and knocked her down again in the third to seal a comprehensive win and book her place in the final.&nbsp;ALSO READ | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/photos/from-leonard-hutton-to-don-bradman-5-batters-with-highest-individual-score-in-ashes-bob-simpson-bob-cowper-ashes-2025-26-1762276944046">From Leonard Hutton to Don Bradman, 5 batters with highest individual score in Ashes</a>&nbsp;Addressing her dominant performance, Arundhati said: “I have made my international comeback after a year-and-a-half, and I am delighted to be back with an RSC win. I was nervous to begin with, because my last international experience was a loss in the Paris (Olympics 2024) qualifiers before I underwent wrist surgery. But I told myself, ‘This is what I have been waiting for,’ and now I am back!”&nbsp;World Champion Minakshi (48kg) continued her exceptional form with a near-perfect 5:0 win over Korea’s Bak Cho-rong. She fought with energy and verve, maintaining a tight defensive structure while landing sharp, accurate punches that helped her clearly take all three rounds.&nbsp;ALSO READ | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/photos/from-steve-smith-to-joe-root-5-active-batters-with-most-runs-in-ashes-ben-stokes-jonny-bairstow-usman-khawaja-1762275784636">From Steve Smith to Joe Root, 5 active batters with most runs in Ashes</a>&nbsp;Ankush Phangal (80kg) added another dominant 5:0 victory, overwhelming Australia’s Marlon Sevehon with his pace and pressure, while Nupur (80+kg) kept India’s momentum rolling by outboxing Ukraine’s Mariia Lovchynska with sustained dominance from start to finish. Parveen (60kg) delivered one of the day’s biggest upsets, edging past Poland’s World Boxing Cup silver medalist Rygielska Aneta Elżbieta in a tense 3:2 decision, showcasing strong ring-generalship in crucial exchanges.&nbsp;In session 5, Preeti (54kg) faces a major test against Olympic medalist and three-time World Champion Huang Hsiao-Wen, Saweety Boora (75kg) takes on Australia’s Emma-Sue Greetree, with Narender and Naveen also chasing finals spots. Abhinash Jamwal opens his campaign against Ukraine’s Elvin Aliiev. &nbsp;

Arundhati Choudhary, the former Youth World Champion and Strandja medalist, competing after a 1.5-year break, showed no signs of rust. 

Arundhati Choudhary delivered one of the most commanding performances of the tournament, stopping Germany’s Leonie Müller—a medallist at all three stages of the 2025 World Boxing Cup—via RSC to headline a sensational Day 3 for India at the Shaheed Vijay Singh Pathik Sports Complex. Arundhati’s statement win set the tone for a flawless session, during which Minakshi, Ankush Phangal, Parveen, and Nupur all booked their places in the finals. Arundhati, the former Youth World Champion and Strandja medalist, competing after a 1.5-year break, showed no signs of rust. She controlled both opening rounds with clean aggression, dropped the German powerhouse once in the second, and knocked her down again in the third to seal a comprehensive win and book her place in the final. ALSO READ | From Leonard Hutton to Don Bradman, 5 batters with highest individual score in Ashes Addressing her dominant performance, Arundhati said: “I have made my international comeback after a year-and-a-half, and I am delighted to be back with an RSC win. I was nervous to begin with, because my last international experience was a loss in the Paris (Olympics 2024) qualifiers before I underwent wrist surgery. But I told myself, ‘This is what I have been waiting for,’ and now I am back!” World Champion Minakshi (48kg) continued her exceptional form with a near-perfect 5:0 win over Korea’s Bak Cho-rong. She fought with energy and verve, maintaining a tight defensive structure while landing sharp, accurate punches that helped her clearly take all three rounds. ALSO READ | From Steve Smith to Joe Root, 5 active batters with most runs in Ashes Ankush Phangal (80kg) added another dominant 5:0 victory, overwhelming Australia’s Marlon Sevehon with his pace and pressure, while Nupur (80+kg) kept India’s momentum rolling by outboxing Ukraine’s Mariia Lovchynska with sustained dominance from start to finish. Parveen (60kg) delivered one of the day’s biggest upsets, edging past Poland’s World Boxing Cup silver medalist Rygielska Aneta Elżbieta in a tense 3:2 decision, showcasing strong ring-generalship in crucial exchanges. In session 5, Preeti (54kg) faces a major test against Olympic medalist and three-time World Champion Huang Hsiao-Wen, Saweety Boora (75kg) takes on Australia’s Emma-Sue Greetree, with Narender and Naveen also chasing finals spots. Abhinash Jamwal opens his campaign against Ukraine’s Elvin Aliiev.

Arundhati Choudhary, the former Youth World Champion and Strandja medalist, competing after a 1.5-year break, showed no signs of rust.&nbsp;

World Boxing Cup Finals 2025: Arundhati Choudhary knocks down Leonie Müller, 5 Indians in final

There are legends in motorsport, and then there is Freddie Spencer, the American prodigy who reshaped the very grammar of motorcycle racing. A three-time world champion, the youngest premier-class title-winner of his era, and the only man to win the 250cc and 500cc World Championships in the same year, Spencer’s name sits in a rarefied league of its own. Now, standing trackside in India, a country he says is “brimming with potential”, Spencer reflects on his journey, on today’s MotoGP, and for the first time, breaks down the thought process behind the revolutionary cornering technique that defined his legacy.&nbsp;“I turned the bike before the tyres were ready, that was the breakthrough," he revealed while exclusively speaking to WION. Ask Spencer, who was in India for the 28th JK Tyre FMSCI National Racing Championship, about what made him different, and he answers with the calm clarity of someone who knows exactly what he changed in the sport. “One of the things that I brought to Grand Prix racing was on corner entry, actually initiating the direction change over the traction level, over the grip level,” he explains.&nbsp;Also Read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/-excited-to-make-my-debut-in-india-says-elena-rybakina-as-world-tennis-league-set-to-enthrall-fans-in-india-1763472410507">'Excited to make my debut here', says Elena Rybakina as World Tennis League set to enthrall fans in India</a>&nbsp;What sounds almost counterintuitive was, in the early 1980s, groundbreaking. Riders typically waited for maximum grip before committing to direction change. Spencer chose the opposite. “When I got to maximum lean angle, the speed was still too high and the rear tyre would break traction, then re-grip and push it back to the front. That allowed me to turn the bike as I was applying lean angle — and pick up the throttle three or four feet sooner than the other guys.”Those few feet were enough to beat world champions. Enough to define an era.&nbsp;Today, he says, only a handful of riders have mastered the same instinctive feel. “Marc Marquez is same way. Marc’s ability on corner entry — to feel the drift of the rear, to rotate the bike around the front, that’s what I was known for.”<h2>India has talent, but needs opportunity</h2>In India as part of Royal Enfield’s racing development program, Spencer is effusive about what he sees. “Royal Enfield’s involvement is very important,” he says. “They’re providing a great platform for riders of all levels. Some of the riders today, I can tell by their style and approach, have the potential to race championships outside India.” But the caveat is clear, exposure is scarce, opportunity even scarcer. “You have to take advantage of the opportunities you’re given. It may not give you exposure immediately, but it gives you experience, and that’s what improves your riding capability.”He points to a rider he spoke with earlier in the day, someone racing a 600cc machine in the US. “He wants to run more events there. But it’s the opportunity here that’s giving him the chance.”<h2>The MotoGP that was and the MotoGP that must return</h2>Spencer was chairman of the stewards panel during MotoGP’s debut in India, an event that impressed him immensely. “To me, the racetrack is incredible. I loved the layout. Loris Capirossi and I were talking about how we would’ve loved to race on that circuit.” But he’s equally candid about wanting MotoGP back. “We provided some incredible racing. Hopefully it will come back. It’s important — that visibility brings interest to racing locally.” “Electronics help everyone — but they take away the great rider’s advantage.” Having raced in the era of vicious 500cc two-strokes, Spencer has a unique vantage point on MotoGP’s technological explosion.&nbsp;“With electronics and aerodynamics, it makes it easier for riders with less ability to perform at a higher level,” he says. “But it takes away your strengths as a top rider.” His example is unambiguous: Marc Marquez. “With the Honda, he made that bike what it was. His natural talent defined the machine. Put him on the Ducati — the best bike — and he wins the championship.” That, Spencer says, is exactly why MotoGP is rewriting its rulebook for 2027. “No start device, no ride-height device, lower displacement. It will leave it up to the rider again.”<h2>The man behind the machines: Precision, crew, and an unforgettable double title</h2>Spencer’s 1985 season, the historic “double”, remains one of motorsport’s greatest achievements. But the behind-the-scenes story reveals the brutal complexity of switching between two radically different machines. “The 250 was 90 kilos and 70 horsepower — all corner speed and art. The 500 was heavier, faster, more of a V-shaped line on entry.”But the real difficulty? “I had to adapt from one bike to the other on the warm-up lap. I couldn’t afford to take five or six laps to adjust.”&nbsp;With back-to-back practice sessions, his crew barely had time to debrief. “I’d keep the information in my head and debrief after both practices. We fine-tuned the bike down to 50 RPM. One kilometre here, one kilometre there — that’s the level we worked at.”<h2>The lap that defined a champion</h2>For all the talk of technique and titles, Spencer is open about the moments that nearly broke him, particularly the injury after his 1985 triumph. “I lost feeling in my hand. I couldn’t feel the front brake. That was when I felt most vulnerable. Riding was my comfort zone — and suddenly I couldn’t rely on it.” Still, he fought back. And he remembers the greatest lap of his life with the fondness of an artist recalling the moment of a masterpiece.&nbsp;“The last lap of the Spanish GP in 1983. No grip, brakes faded, the bike slowing down. And I ran my fastest lap — the only lap I led. I won by two bike lengths. It doesn’t get any better.”<h2>Advice to the Indian dreamers</h2>For young Indian riders hoping to break through, Spencer’s advice is equal parts practical and philosophical. “You have to take the risk to try. You have to be willing to risk losing. And you have to make effort beyond what you think you're capable of.” He pauses, then adds: “That mindset — that’s what creates the opportunity.”&nbsp;Why Freddie Spencer Keeps Coming Back to India? His answer is disarmingly simple. “My relationship with Royal Enfield. And I’ve always liked big adventures.” Four years into his India journey, Spencer is no longer just a visiting legend, he is part of India’s motorsport story, helping shape the next generation of riders who may one day challenge the world just as he once did.

Racing icon Freddie Spencer shares insights on Indian motorsport, training gaps, MotoGP growth, and how India can shape its racing future and become a global force

There are legends in motorsport, and then there is Freddie Spencer, the American prodigy who reshaped the very grammar of motorcycle racing. A three-time world champion, the youngest premier-class title-winner of his era, and the only man to win the 250cc and 500cc World Championships in the same year, Spencer’s name sits in a rarefied league of its own. Now, standing trackside in India, a country he says is “brimming with potential”, Spencer reflects on his journey, on today’s MotoGP, and for the first time, breaks down the thought process behind the revolutionary cornering technique that defined his legacy. “I turned the bike before the tyres were ready, that was the breakthrough," he revealed while exclusively speaking to WION. Ask Spencer, who was in India for the 28th JK Tyre FMSCI National Racing Championship, about what made him different, and he answers with the calm clarity of someone who knows exactly what he changed in the sport. “One of the things that I brought to Grand Prix racing was on corner entry, actually initiating the direction change over the traction level, over the grip level,” he explains. Also Read: 'Excited to make my debut here', says Elena Rybakina as World Tennis League set to enthrall fans in India What sounds almost counterintuitive was, in the early 1980s, groundbreaking. Riders typically waited for maximum grip before committing to direction change. Spencer chose the opposite. “When I got to maximum lean angle, the speed was still too high and the rear tyre would break traction, then re-grip and push it back to the front. That allowed me to turn the bike as I was applying lean angle — and pick up the throttle three or four feet sooner than the other guys.” Those few feet were enough to beat world champions. Enough to define an era. Today, he says, only a handful of riders have mastered the same instinctive feel. “Marc Marquez is same way. Marc’s ability on corner entry — to feel the drift of the rear, to rotate the bike around the front, that’s what I was known for.” India has talent, but needs opportunity In India as part of Royal Enfield’s racing development program, Spencer is effusive about what he sees. “Royal Enfield’s involvement is very important,” he says. “They’re providing a great platform for riders of all levels. Some of the riders today, I can tell by their style and approach, have the potential to race championships outside India.” But the caveat is clear, exposure is scarce, opportunity even scarcer. “You have to take advantage of the opportunities you’re given. It may not give you exposure immediately, but it gives you experience, and that’s what improves your riding capability.” He points to a rider he spoke with earlier in the day, someone racing a 600cc machine in the US. “He wants to run more events there. But it’s the opportunity here that’s giving him the chance.” The MotoGP that was and the MotoGP that must return Spencer was chairman of the stewards panel during MotoGP’s debut in India, an event that impressed him immensely. “To me, the racetrack is incredible. I loved the layout. Loris Capirossi and I were talking about how we would’ve loved to race on that circuit.” But he’s equally candid about wanting MotoGP back. “We provided some incredible racing. Hopefully it will come back. It’s important — that visibility brings interest to racing locally.” “Electronics help everyone — but they take away the great rider’s advantage.” Having raced in the era of vicious 500cc two-strokes, Spencer has a unique vantage point on MotoGP’s technological explosion. “With electronics and aerodynamics, it makes it easier for riders with less ability to perform at a higher level,” he says. “But it takes away your strengths as a top rider.” His example is unambiguous: Marc Marquez. “With the Honda, he made that bike what it was. His natural talent defined the machine. Put him on the Ducati — the best bike — and he wins the championship.” That, Spencer says, is exactly why MotoGP is rewriting its rulebook for 2027. “No start device, no ride-height device, lower displacement. It will leave it up to the rider again.” The man behind the machines: Precision, crew, and an unforgettable double title Spencer’s 1985 season, the historic “double”, remains one of motorsport’s greatest achievements. But the behind-the-scenes story reveals the brutal complexity of switching between two radically different machines. “The 250 was 90 kilos and 70 horsepower — all corner speed and art. The 500 was heavier, faster, more of a V-shaped line on entry.” But the real difficulty? “I had to adapt from one bike to the other on the warm-up lap. I couldn’t afford to take five or six laps to adjust.” With back-to-back practice sessions, his crew barely had time to debrief. “I’d keep the information in my head and debrief after both practices. We fine-tuned the bike down to 50 RPM. One kilometre here, one kilometre there — that’s the level we worked at.” The lap that defined a champion For all the talk of technique and titles, Spencer is open about the moments that nearly broke him, particularly the injury after his 1985 triumph. “I lost feeling in my hand. I couldn’t feel the front brake. That was when I felt most vulnerable. Riding was my comfort zone — and suddenly I couldn’t rely on it.” Still, he fought back. And he remembers the greatest lap of his life with the fondness of an artist recalling the moment of a masterpiece. “The last lap of the Spanish GP in 1983. No grip, brakes faded, the bike slowing down. And I ran my fastest lap — the only lap I led. I won by two bike lengths. It doesn’t get any better.” Advice to the Indian dreamers For young Indian riders hoping to break through, Spencer’s advice is equal parts practical and philosophical. “You have to take the risk to try. You have to be willing to risk losing. And you have to make effort beyond what you think you're capable of.” He pauses, then adds: “That mindset — that’s what creates the opportunity.” Why Freddie Spencer Keeps Coming Back to India? His answer is disarmingly simple. “My relationship with Royal Enfield. And I’ve always liked big adventures.” Four years into his India journey, Spencer is no longer just a visiting legend, he is part of India’s motorsport story, helping shape the next generation of riders who may one day challenge the world just as he once did.

Racing icon Freddie Spencer shares insights on Indian motorsport, training gaps, MotoGP growth, and how India can shape its racing future and become a global force

WION Exclusive: Three-time MotoGP champion Freddie Spencer reveals the 'SECRET' behind the cornering technique that changed motorcycle racing

GM Arjun Erigaisi could not convert his advantage in the middle game and had to settle for a draw in the second game against GM Wei Yi as their FIDE World Cup 2025 quarterfinal heads to a tiebreak.&nbsp;Having played a quick draw with black on Monday, Arjun expectedly looked for a win with white and it looked like the highest ranked player left in the competition had gained an upper hand in the middle game.&nbsp;At that stage, the chess engines were suggesting a bishop sacrifice as the top move to drive home the advantage but Arjun went with a relatively steady queen to d2 and Wei then defended well to ensure that there was no other result possible.&nbsp;ALSO READ | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/photos/from-leonard-hutton-to-don-bradman-5-batters-with-highest-individual-score-in-ashes-bob-simpson-bob-cowper-ashes-2025-26-1762276944046">From Leonard Hutton to Don Bradman, 5 batters with highest individual score in Ashes</a> Arjun will begin the tiebreak with black pieces on Wednesday and should be the favourite to advance in the rapid format.&nbsp;Two more quarterfinals will head to the tiebreak as GM GM Andrey Esipenko split the point against GM Sam Shankland after 37 moves while the match between GM Jose Eduardo Martinez Alcantara and GM Javokhir Sindarov ended after just 25 moves with the game lasting just 18 minutes.&nbsp;ALSO READ | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/photos/from-steve-smith-to-joe-root-5-active-batters-with-most-runs-in-ashes-ben-stokes-jonny-bairstow-usman-khawaja-1762275784636">From Steve Smith to Joe Root, 5 active batters with most runs in Ashes</a>&nbsp;Uzbekistan's GM Nodirbek Yakubboev was the only player to advance to the semi-finals after the two classical games as he drew the second game against GM Alexander Donchenko of Germany in 57 moves. Nordirbek had won the first game with white pieces.<h2>Results</h2>GM Andrey Esipenko drew with GM Sam Shankland (1:1 aggregate) GM Jose Eduardo Martinez Alcantara vs GM Javokhir Sindarov (1:1 aggregate) GM Arjun Erigaisi drew with GM Wei Yi (1:1 aggregate) GM Alexander Donchenko lost to GM Nodirbek Yakubboev (0.5:1.5 aggregate)

Having played a quick draw with black on Monday, Arjun Erigaisi expectedly looked for a win with white and it looked like the highest ranked player left in the competition had gained an upper hand in the middle game.

GM Arjun Erigaisi could not convert his advantage in the middle game and had to settle for a draw in the second game against GM Wei Yi as their FIDE World Cup 2025 quarterfinal heads to a tiebreak. Having played a quick draw with black on Monday, Arjun expectedly looked for a win with white and it looked like the highest ranked player left in the competition had gained an upper hand in the middle game. At that stage, the chess engines were suggesting a bishop sacrifice as the top move to drive home the advantage but Arjun went with a relatively steady queen to d2 and Wei then defended well to ensure that there was no other result possible. ALSO READ | From Leonard Hutton to Don Bradman, 5 batters with highest individual score in Ashes Arjun will begin the tiebreak with black pieces on Wednesday and should be the favourite to advance in the rapid format. Two more quarterfinals will head to the tiebreak as GM GM Andrey Esipenko split the point against GM Sam Shankland after 37 moves while the match between GM Jose Eduardo Martinez Alcantara and GM Javokhir Sindarov ended after just 25 moves with the game lasting just 18 minutes. ALSO READ | From Steve Smith to Joe Root, 5 active batters with most runs in Ashes Uzbekistan's GM Nodirbek Yakubboev was the only player to advance to the semi-finals after the two classical games as he drew the second game against GM Alexander Donchenko of Germany in 57 moves. Nordirbek had won the first game with white pieces. Results GM Andrey Esipenko drew with GM Sam Shankland (1:1 aggregate) GM Jose Eduardo Martinez Alcantara vs GM Javokhir Sindarov (1:1 aggregate) GM Arjun Erigaisi drew with GM Wei Yi (1:1 aggregate) GM Alexander Donchenko lost to GM Nodirbek Yakubboev (0.5:1.5 aggregate)

Having played a quick draw with black on Monday, Arjun Erigaisi expectedly looked for a win with white and it looked like the highest ranked player left in the competition had gained an upper hand in the middle game.

FIDE World Cup 2025: Arjun Erigaisi, Wei Yi quarters heads to tiebreak; Nodirbek Abdusattorov seals semis spot

The Indian team has recalled Nitish Kumar Reddy to the squad for the Guwahati Test, aiming to level the two-match series. Having waved off Reddy after the first Test match, he was summoned to be back in the Indian team as injuries and key unavailabilities influenced the decision. The media report also states that Shubman Gill will also travel with the Indian team despite struggling with neck spasm.<h2>Reddy back in Indian team</h2>According to prominent cricket website Cricbuzz, Nitish was drafted back into the 15-man squad, having initially left for the List-A contest against South Africa. However, Gautam Gambhir and staff have decided to recall the batting all-rounder as they struggle with fitness issues. Captain Gill is yet to be passed fit for the contest in Guwahati, while Sai Sudharsan dropped down the pecking order, having missed out on the Kolkata Test.&nbsp;According to the report, Reddy joined the Indian team in Kolkata on Monday evening as they are ready to board their flight for Guwahati on Wednesday. He will be part of the traveling roster along with Gill, who is optimistic about his inclusion.&nbsp;ALSO READ | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/photos/from-steve-smith-to-joe-root-5-active-batters-with-most-runs-in-ashes-ben-stokes-jonny-bairstow-usman-khawaja-1762275784636">From Steve Smith to Joe Root, 5 active batters with most runs in Ashes</a><h2>Gill travels with Indian team</h2>As the second Test match approaches, the Indian team management will have its work cut out as they sweat on Gill’s fitness. The Indian captain was discharged from a private hospital in Kolkata on Sunday after observation. According to India Today, Gill rejoined the Indian squad and will be on the plane to Guwahati, while his participation in the Playing XI remains in doubt.&nbsp;ALSO READ | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/photos/from-leonard-hutton-to-don-bradman-5-batters-with-highest-individual-score-in-ashes-bob-simpson-bob-cowper-ashes-2025-26-1762276944046">From Leonard Hutton to Don Bradman, 5 batters with highest individual score in Ashes</a><h2>What was the issue?</h2>Having opted to retire hurt during Day 2, Gill was suffering from neck spasm and complained of the same to the medical team. While he was batting on 4 off three deliveries, he was advised not to continue before returning to the pavilion. His spasm continued to haunt him as the Indian captain did not bat while the team lost nine wickets. India had to therefore retire hurt Gill before South Africa came out to bat again.&nbsp;The second Test against South Africa starts on Saturday (Nov 2) with visitors leading 1-0, having beaten India by 30 runs at Eden Gardens.

Having waved off Nitish Kumar Reddy after the first Test match, he was summoned to be back in the Indian team as injuries and key unavailabilities influenced the decision.

The Indian team has recalled Nitish Kumar Reddy to the squad for the Guwahati Test, aiming to level the two-match series. Having waved off Reddy after the first Test match, he was summoned to be back in the Indian team as injuries and key unavailabilities influenced the decision. The media report also states that Shubman Gill will also travel with the Indian team despite struggling with neck spasm. Reddy back in Indian team According to prominent cricket website Cricbuzz, Nitish was drafted back into the 15-man squad, having initially left for the List-A contest against South Africa. However, Gautam Gambhir and staff have decided to recall the batting all-rounder as they struggle with fitness issues. Captain Gill is yet to be passed fit for the contest in Guwahati, while Sai Sudharsan dropped down the pecking order, having missed out on the Kolkata Test. According to the report, Reddy joined the Indian team in Kolkata on Monday evening as they are ready to board their flight for Guwahati on Wednesday. He will be part of the traveling roster along with Gill, who is optimistic about his inclusion. ALSO READ | From Steve Smith to Joe Root, 5 active batters with most runs in Ashes Gill travels with Indian team As the second Test match approaches, the Indian team management will have its work cut out as they sweat on Gill’s fitness. The Indian captain was discharged from a private hospital in Kolkata on Sunday after observation. According to India Today, Gill rejoined the Indian squad and will be on the plane to Guwahati, while his participation in the Playing XI remains in doubt. ALSO READ | From Leonard Hutton to Don Bradman, 5 batters with highest individual score in Ashes What was the issue? Having opted to retire hurt during Day 2, Gill was suffering from neck spasm and complained of the same to the medical team. While he was batting on 4 off three deliveries, he was advised not to continue before returning to the pavilion. His spasm continued to haunt him as the Indian captain did not bat while the team lost nine wickets. India had to therefore retire hurt Gill before South Africa came out to bat again. The second Test against South Africa starts on Saturday (Nov 2) with visitors leading 1-0, having beaten India by 30 runs at Eden Gardens.

Having waved off Nitish Kumar Reddy after the first Test match, he was summoned to be back in the Indian team as injuries and key unavailabilities influenced the decision.

IND vs SA: Nitish Kumar Reddy recalled to India squad as depleted hosts search for parity in Guwahati - Report

After three successful seasons in the UAE, the World Tennis League (WTL), is gearing up for its first-ever Indian chapter. The high-profile exhibition league will run from December 17 to 20 at Bengaluru’s SM Krishna Tennis Stadium, overseen by the Karnataka State Lawn Tennis Association. The India debut brings together a formidable mix of international heavyweights and homegrown stars.&nbsp;&nbsp;Fans can look forward to watching Daniil Medvedev, Nick Kyrgios, Gael Monfils, Elena Rybakina, Paula Badosa, Arthur Fils, Magda Linette, Marta Kostyuk, Sumit Nagal and Rohan Bopanna headlining the action. In a major boost for domestic tennis, the tournament has also drafted in India’s rising performers, including Yuki Bhambri, Ankita Raina, Shrivalli Bhamidipaty, Maaya Revathi, Dhakshineswar Suresh and Sahana Yamalapalli — a move aimed at widening the sport’s footprint across the country.&nbsp;Also Read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/badminton-legends-saina-nehwal-peter-gade-to-headline-legends-vision-legacy-tour-india-1763471247910">Badminton legends Saina Nehwal, Peter Gade to headline Legends’ Vision Legacy Tour India</a>&nbsp;Known for its fast-paced, team-based format, WTL has carved out a unique place in the global tennis calendar, blending elite matchups with an entertainment-first approach that has resonated strongly with fans. Looking forward to her first competitive outing in India, world no. 5 Elena Rybakina said, “I’ve heard so much about the tennis culture in India, and I’m thrilled to make my debut here with WTL. The league has an exciting format, and I’m ready to enjoy every moment on the court with my team.”&nbsp;For Mahesh Bhupathi, 12-time Grand Slam champion and co-founder of the league, bringing WTL to India is a long-awaited moment. “India has always shared a deep relationship with tennis, and hosting the WTL is a chance to strengthen that connection. This format highlights the sport’s speed and energy. With global stars competing alongside India’s top players, we hope to inspire the next generation and show how dynamic and limitless tennis can be.”

The debut edition of the World Tennis League in India will be played at the SM Krishna Tennis Stadium, Bengaluru from December 17 till December 20.

After three successful seasons in the UAE, the World Tennis League (WTL), is gearing up for its first-ever Indian chapter. The high-profile exhibition league will run from December 17 to 20 at Bengaluru’s SM Krishna Tennis Stadium, overseen by the Karnataka State Lawn Tennis Association. The India debut brings together a formidable mix of international heavyweights and homegrown stars. Fans can look forward to watching Daniil Medvedev, Nick Kyrgios, Gael Monfils, Elena Rybakina, Paula Badosa, Arthur Fils, Magda Linette, Marta Kostyuk, Sumit Nagal and Rohan Bopanna headlining the action. In a major boost for domestic tennis, the tournament has also drafted in India’s rising performers, including Yuki Bhambri, Ankita Raina, Shrivalli Bhamidipaty, Maaya Revathi, Dhakshineswar Suresh and Sahana Yamalapalli — a move aimed at widening the sport’s footprint across the country. Also Read: Badminton legends Saina Nehwal, Peter Gade to headline Legends’ Vision Legacy Tour India Known for its fast-paced, team-based format, WTL has carved out a unique place in the global tennis calendar, blending elite matchups with an entertainment-first approach that has resonated strongly with fans. Looking forward to her first competitive outing in India, world no. 5 Elena Rybakina said, “I’ve heard so much about the tennis culture in India, and I’m thrilled to make my debut here with WTL. The league has an exciting format, and I’m ready to enjoy every moment on the court with my team.” For Mahesh Bhupathi, 12-time Grand Slam champion and co-founder of the league, bringing WTL to India is a long-awaited moment. “India has always shared a deep relationship with tennis, and hosting the WTL is a chance to strengthen that connection. This format highlights the sport’s speed and energy. With global stars competing alongside India’s top players, we hope to inspire the next generation and show how dynamic and limitless tennis can be.”

The debut edition of the World Tennis League in India will be played at the SM Krishna Tennis Stadium, Bengaluru from December 17 till December 20.

'Excited to make my debut here', says Elena Rybakina as World Tennis League set to enthrall fans in India

Indian badminton icon and Padma Bhushan awardee Saina Nehwal, together with Denmark’s legendary shuttler and multiple world-championship medalist Peter Gade, will headline The Legends’ Vision - Legacy Tour India, a global initiative aimed at growing the game globally through community-led events, junior development, and local partnerships. Together with Carolina Marín, Saina becomes one of the newest Legends powering the initiative.&nbsp;Returning to India after eight years, The Legends’ Vision – Legacy Tour India arrives in New Delhi on 23–24 November 2025, which will be held at Siri Fort Sports Complex. More than an event, the Legacy Tour India is a two-day celebration that brings legends and communities together to grow the game globally - inspiring first rallies, widening access to play, and sparking the next generation’s belief.&nbsp;A major highlight is A Racquet’s Second Life - a Legends’ Vision global initiative that invites fans to donate a pre-loved racquet so more young players can begin their badminton journey. Donated racquets are placed with community partners where they’re needed most, turning each contribution into a real opportunity to start.Day 1 (23 Nov) features interactive junior exhibitions where Saina Nehwal and Peter Gade are joined by Legends’ Vision Ambassadors to give juniors a standout on-court experience, followed by the official launch of A Racquet’s Second Life in India.&nbsp;ALSO READ | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/photos/from-steve-smith-to-joe-root-5-active-batters-with-most-runs-in-ashes-ben-stokes-jonny-bairstow-usman-khawaja-1762275784636">From Steve Smith to Joe Root, 5 active batters with most runs in Ashes</a>&nbsp;Speaking about the Legends’ Vision initiative and ‘A Racquet’s Second Life’, Saina Nehwal said, “I am delighted to bring The Legends’ Vision to my home country again. Badminton has given me everything in life, and it is always special to return to the court in a way that inspires young players. ‘A Racquet’s Second Life’ is a meaningful initiative because it reminds us that even the smallest contribution can spark a big dream. If a racquet can help a child discover the joy of badminton, then we are already building a stronger and more inclusive future for the sport.”&nbsp;ALSO READ | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/photos/from-leonard-hutton-to-don-bradman-5-batters-with-highest-individual-score-in-ashes-bob-simpson-bob-cowper-ashes-2025-26-1762276944046">From Leonard Hutton to Don Bradman, 5 batters with highest individual score in Ashes</a>&nbsp;Peter Gade added, “It’s a privilege to work with Saina Nehwal to build something meaningful in India. This programme has always been about giving back to the global badminton community, and I’m proud to see the message continue to grow. Meeting young players and fans, and supporting A Racquet’s Second Life, reflects what The Legends’ Vision stands for – empowering the next generation and ensuring the love for badminton reaches every corner of the world.”&nbsp;Disclaimer: This story has been published from a news agency feed with minimal edits to adhere to WION's style guide. The headline may have been changed to better reflect the content of the story or to make it more suitable for WION audience.

A major highlight is A Racquet’s Second Life - a Legends’ Vision global initiative that invites fans to donate a pre-loved racquet so more young players can begin their badminton journey.

Indian badminton icon and Padma Bhushan awardee Saina Nehwal, together with Denmark’s legendary shuttler and multiple world-championship medalist Peter Gade, will headline The Legends’ Vision - Legacy Tour India, a global initiative aimed at growing the game globally through community-led events, junior development, and local partnerships. Together with Carolina Marín, Saina becomes one of the newest Legends powering the initiative. Returning to India after eight years, The Legends’ Vision – Legacy Tour India arrives in New Delhi on 23–24 November 2025, which will be held at Siri Fort Sports Complex. More than an event, the Legacy Tour India is a two-day celebration that brings legends and communities together to grow the game globally - inspiring first rallies, widening access to play, and sparking the next generation’s belief. A major highlight is A Racquet’s Second Life - a Legends’ Vision global initiative that invites fans to donate a pre-loved racquet so more young players can begin their badminton journey. Donated racquets are placed with community partners where they’re needed most, turning each contribution into a real opportunity to start. Day 1 (23 Nov) features interactive junior exhibitions where Saina Nehwal and Peter Gade are joined by Legends’ Vision Ambassadors to give juniors a standout on-court experience, followed by the official launch of A Racquet’s Second Life in India. ALSO READ | From Steve Smith to Joe Root, 5 active batters with most runs in Ashes Speaking about the Legends’ Vision initiative and ‘A Racquet’s Second Life’, Saina Nehwal said, “I am delighted to bring The Legends’ Vision to my home country again. Badminton has given me everything in life, and it is always special to return to the court in a way that inspires young players. ‘A Racquet’s Second Life’ is a meaningful initiative because it reminds us that even the smallest contribution can spark a big dream. If a racquet can help a child discover the joy of badminton, then we are already building a stronger and more inclusive future for the sport.” ALSO READ | From Leonard Hutton to Don Bradman, 5 batters with highest individual score in Ashes Peter Gade added, “It’s a privilege to work with Saina Nehwal to build something meaningful in India. This programme has always been about giving back to the global badminton community, and I’m proud to see the message continue to grow. Meeting young players and fans, and supporting A Racquet’s Second Life, reflects what The Legends’ Vision stands for – empowering the next generation and ensuring the love for badminton reaches every corner of the world.” Disclaimer: This story has been published from a news agency feed with minimal edits to adhere to WION's style guide. The headline may have been changed to better reflect the content of the story or to make it more suitable for WION audience.

A major highlight is A Racquet’s Second Life - a Legends’ Vision global initiative that invites fans to donate a pre-loved racquet so more young players can begin their badminton journey.

Badminton legends Saina Nehwal, Peter Gade to headline Legends’ Vision Legacy Tour India

It will be a day of destiny for minnows Kosovo as they could book their place in the 2026 FIFA World Cup on Tuesday (Nov 18). Set to face Group B leaders Switzerland in the final qualifying match, Kosovo, which gained independence in 2008, could write a new chapter by securing qualification to the 2026 FIFA World Cup. The evening will also see the likes of Scotland and Turkey square off in their respective qualifiers to gain a place in football’s greatest show.&nbsp;<h2>What are the current standings?</h2>In Group B, Switzerland lead the way as group leaders with 13 points in five matches and a goal difference of +12, while Kosovo sit second with 10 points and a goal difference of +1. On the other hand, Scotland will enter the last qualifier with 10 points and sitting second in Group C. Denmark currently lead the group with 11 points in five matches. On the other hand, Turkey and Bosnia and Herzegovina are also in frame to qualify as group winners and therefore a direct place in the 2026 FIFA World Cup.&nbsp;<h2>Kosovo, Switzerland’s equation for World Cup qualification</h2>Switzerland and Kosovo will go head-to-head in the final qualifier, with a win or a draw enough for the former to reach the World Cup. For Kosovo, they need to win by 6-0 or a better margin, which will see them gain a goal difference of +7, while Switzerland will drop down to +6. This will see Kosovo qualify for the World Cup, while Switzerland will play in the Playoffs. Any other set of results will see Switzerland reach the World Cup and Kosovo in the Playoffs.&nbsp;&nbsp;ALSO READ | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/photos/from-steve-smith-to-joe-root-5-active-batters-with-most-runs-in-ashes-ben-stokes-jonny-bairstow-usman-khawaja-1762275784636">From Steve Smith to Joe Root, 5 active batters with most runs in Ashes</a><h2>Scotland, Denmark’s equation for World Cup qualification</h2>Scotland could end their 28-year wait to qualify for a FIFA World Cup as they face Denmark in the final qualifier. A win for Scotland will see them officially seal a place in the North American showpiece as they will leapfrog Denmark. However, any other result will see Scotland settle for a second-place finish and therefore a place in the Playoffs.&nbsp;&nbsp;ALSO READ | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/photos/from-leonard-hutton-to-don-bradman-5-batters-with-highest-individual-score-in-ashes-bob-simpson-bob-cowper-ashes-2025-26-1762276944046">From Leonard Hutton to Don Bradman, 5 batters with highest individual score in Ashes</a><h2>Spain, Turkey’s equation for World Cup qualification</h2>Spain will enter the final qualifier with 15 points in five matches, but Turkey sit hot on their shoulders as they have 12 points. However, Turkey need a goal swing of 15 if they are reach the World Cup. Turkey can qualify for the World Cup with a 7-0 or a better win margin. However, a smaller win margin could see them miss out on the World Cup finals with Spain going through. The 2010 champions can also qualify for the World Cup with a draw.

Set to face Group B leaders Switzerland in the final qualifying match, Kosovo, which gained independence in 2008, could write a new chapter by securing qualification to the 2026 FIFA World Cup.

It will be a day of destiny for minnows Kosovo as they could book their place in the 2026 FIFA World Cup on Tuesday (Nov 18). Set to face Group B leaders Switzerland in the final qualifying match, Kosovo, which gained independence in 2008, could write a new chapter by securing qualification to the 2026 FIFA World Cup. The evening will also see the likes of Scotland and Turkey square off in their respective qualifiers to gain a place in football’s greatest show. What are the current standings? In Group B, Switzerland lead the way as group leaders with 13 points in five matches and a goal difference of +12, while Kosovo sit second with 10 points and a goal difference of +1. On the other hand, Scotland will enter the last qualifier with 10 points and sitting second in Group C. Denmark currently lead the group with 11 points in five matches. On the other hand, Turkey and Bosnia and Herzegovina are also in frame to qualify as group winners and therefore a direct place in the 2026 FIFA World Cup. Kosovo, Switzerland’s equation for World Cup qualification Switzerland and Kosovo will go head-to-head in the final qualifier, with a win or a draw enough for the former to reach the World Cup. For Kosovo, they need to win by 6-0 or a better margin, which will see them gain a goal difference of +7, while Switzerland will drop down to +6. This will see Kosovo qualify for the World Cup, while Switzerland will play in the Playoffs. Any other set of results will see Switzerland reach the World Cup and Kosovo in the Playoffs. ALSO READ | From Steve Smith to Joe Root, 5 active batters with most runs in Ashes Scotland, Denmark’s equation for World Cup qualification Scotland could end their 28-year wait to qualify for a FIFA World Cup as they face Denmark in the final qualifier. A win for Scotland will see them officially seal a place in the North American showpiece as they will leapfrog Denmark. However, any other result will see Scotland settle for a second-place finish and therefore a place in the Playoffs. ALSO READ | From Leonard Hutton to Don Bradman, 5 batters with highest individual score in Ashes Spain, Turkey’s equation for World Cup qualification Spain will enter the final qualifier with 15 points in five matches, but Turkey sit hot on their shoulders as they have 12 points. However, Turkey need a goal swing of 15 if they are reach the World Cup. Turkey can qualify for the World Cup with a 7-0 or a better win margin. However, a smaller win margin could see them miss out on the World Cup finals with Spain going through. The 2010 champions can also qualify for the World Cup with a draw.

Set to face Group B leaders Switzerland in the final qualifying match, Kosovo, which gained independence in 2008, could write a new chapter by securing qualification to the 2026 FIFA World Cup.

Explained: How Kosovo, Scotland can qualify for 2026 FIFA World Cup on final matchday

India's latest Test loss to South Africa at home at brought up a lot of questions about their focus on pitches and the ability to play spin. The loss was India's fourth in last 13 months in six matches played at home - their worst record in six matches since 1969-72 period in which they played six matches and lost four. In the six matches played, India have won against minnow West Indies - prior to home Test series against South Africa.<h2>India fall to worst home Test record in 53 years</h2>The current downfall of India's results at home began with New Zealand tour of India which comprises three Tests and ended with India losing all three of them. The series loss costed India a third straight World Test Championship (WTC) final. The next two Test series India played were in Australia and England, respectively.Also Read - <a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/us-announces-new-visa-system-for-fifa-world-cup-2026-ticket-holders-insists-no-guarantees-1763456604006">US announces new visa system for FIFA World Cup 2026 ticket holders, insists 'no guarantees'</a>India did well in the first home Test series of the current WTC cycle, beating West Indies 2-0 in two-Test series before losing the Test against South Africa in Kolkata.Before the loss, India lost Tests at home in a period of seven years of Feb 2017 to Jan 2024. After the last defeat in that period, which came against England in Hyderabad, India had won six matches at home on the trot - making their win-loss record in 34 home Tests at 25-4.Prior to this, India lost four matches out of six played at home between 1969 to 1972 which also included the final game played after a gap of three years from the fifth Test as India play any home Tests between January 1970 and November 1972.Given the current situation, India are a much strong country, in fact one of the strongest to have such abysmal record at home and they'd be hoping to turn it around sooner than later.

Before the loss, India lost Tests at home in a period of seven years of Feb 2017 to Jan 2024. After the last defeat in that period, which came against England in Hyderabad, India had won six matches at home on the trot - making their win-loss record in 34 home Tests at 25-4.

India's latest Test loss to South Africa at home at brought up a lot of questions about their focus on pitches and the ability to play spin. The loss was India's fourth in last 13 months in six matches played at home - their worst record in six matches since 1969-72 period in which they played six matches and lost four. In the six matches played, India have won against minnow West Indies - prior to home Test series against South Africa. India fall to worst home Test record in 53 years The current downfall of India's results at home began with New Zealand tour of India which comprises three Tests and ended with India losing all three of them. The series loss costed India a third straight World Test Championship (WTC) final. The next two Test series India played were in Australia and England, respectively. Also Read - US announces new visa system for FIFA World Cup 2026 ticket holders, insists 'no guarantees' India did well in the first home Test series of the current WTC cycle, beating West Indies 2-0 in two-Test series before losing the Test against South Africa in Kolkata. Before the loss, India lost Tests at home in a period of seven years of Feb 2017 to Jan 2024. After the last defeat in that period, which came against England in Hyderabad, India had won six matches at home on the trot - making their win-loss record in 34 home Tests at 25-4. Prior to this, India lost four matches out of six played at home between 1969 to 1972 which also included the final game played after a gap of three years from the fifth Test as India play any home Tests between January 1970 and November 1972. Given the current situation, India are a much strong country, in fact one of the strongest to have such abysmal record at home and they'd be hoping to turn it around sooner than later.

Before the loss, India lost Tests at home in a period of seven years of Feb 2017 to Jan 2024. After the last defeat in that period, which came against England in Hyderabad, India had won six matches at home on the trot - making their win-loss record in 34 home Tests at 25-4.

India's loss against South Africa was fourth in last six home Tests - their worst record since 1972

In anticipation of the large numbers of fans coming to the USA for the FIFA World Cup 2026, the Trump administrations has announced a new visa system to expedite the requests of ticket holders. The new system, however, does not guarantee a visa, clarified the admin. The USA is hosting the football world cup for the first time since 1994. Along with the US, Canada and Mexico are also the co-host of the quadrennial tournament. There would be more fans in the upcoming edition as it has been expanded to 48 teams instead of the traditional 32 teams.<h2>US introduces new visa system for World Cup ticket holders</h2>Under the new FIFA prioritized appointment scheduling system announced on Monday (Nov 17), the fans with tickets to the US-hosted game will get priority appointment for the visas at the embassies world wide. The US has deployed more than 400 additional consular staff worldwide which has brought the appointment time from an year to 60 days in some countries.Also Read - <a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/bangladesh-women-skipper-sultana-unnecessarily-drags-harmanpreet-to-defend-allegations-of-beating-up-juniors-1763440366415">Bangladesh skipper Sultana drags Harman in defence of allegations against her</a>“In places, for example, like Brazil and Argentina, you would have [had] over a year to get an appointment. Now you can get [one] in less than two months,” US Secretary of State Rubio said.<h2>Ticket doesn't guarantee a visa</h2>Rubio, however, made it clear that the new fast-tracker system is only to expedite the appointment process and does not guarantee a visa despite having the ticket.“Your ticket is not a visa. It doesn’t guarantee admission to the US,” Rubio said. “It guarantees you an expedited appointment. You’re still going to go through the same vetting. We’re going to do the same vetting as anybody else would get. The only difference here is we’re moving them up in the queue.”The FIFA World Cup 2026 will be played from June 11 to July 19 in 16 cities across the US, Canada and Mexico with 11 of those 16 venues being in the United States.

Under the new FIFA prioritized appointment scheduling system announced on Monday (Nov 17), the fans with tickets to the US-hosted game will get priority appointment for the visas at the embassies world wide.

In anticipation of the large numbers of fans coming to the USA for the FIFA World Cup 2026, the Trump administrations has announced a new visa system to expedite the requests of ticket holders. The new system, however, does not guarantee a visa, clarified the admin. The USA is hosting the football world cup for the first time since 1994. Along with the US, Canada and Mexico are also the co-host of the quadrennial tournament. There would be more fans in the upcoming edition as it has been expanded to 48 teams instead of the traditional 32 teams. US introduces new visa system for World Cup ticket holders Under the new FIFA prioritized appointment scheduling system announced on Monday (Nov 17), the fans with tickets to the US-hosted game will get priority appointment for the visas at the embassies world wide. The US has deployed more than 400 additional consular staff worldwide which has brought the appointment time from an year to 60 days in some countries. Also Read - Bangladesh skipper Sultana drags Harman in defence of allegations against her “In places, for example, like Brazil and Argentina, you would have [had] over a year to get an appointment. Now you can get [one] in less than two months,” US Secretary of State Rubio said. Ticket doesn't guarantee a visa Rubio, however, made it clear that the new fast-tracker system is only to expedite the appointment process and does not guarantee a visa despite having the ticket. “Your ticket is not a visa. It doesn’t guarantee admission to the US,” Rubio said. “It guarantees you an expedited appointment. You’re still going to go through the same vetting. We’re going to do the same vetting as anybody else would get. The only difference here is we’re moving them up in the queue.” The FIFA World Cup 2026 will be played from June 11 to July 19 in 16 cities across the US, Canada and Mexico with 11 of those 16 venues being in the United States.

Under the new FIFA prioritized appointment scheduling system announced on Monday (Nov 17), the fans with tickets to the US-hosted game will get priority appointment for the visas at the embassies world wide.

US announces new visa system for FIFA World Cup 2026 ticket holders, insists 'no guarantees'

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