Marc Marquez was "super happy" to claim his first-ever win at the Red Bull Ring as he raced to victory in the Austrian MotoGP on Sunday (Aug 17).It was his ninth win of the season and stretched his lead at the top of the championship standings. The Ducati rider, who started fourth on the grid, swept past pole-sitter Marco Bezzecchi on lap 20 and pulled away for his sixth successive victory. Rookie Fermin Aldeguer closed on him in the final laps but had to settle for second, the best result of his fledgling career, with Bezzecchi completing the podium.&nbsp;"Yes, super, super happy to finally take the first victory here in Austria, I'm wearing the red bike (Ducati) and it was working super good," said Marquez.&nbsp;Victory in the 1000th MotoGP race completed a perfect weekend for the Spaniard, who, after a poor qualifying that saw him slide off the track, also won his 12th sprint of the season on Saturday.&nbsp;It also moves the 32-year-old one step closer to a seventh world title, his first since 2019.&nbsp;After 13 rounds of the 22-race season, Marquez is now 142 points clear of his brother Alex Marquez (Ducati-Gresini) in the standings.<h3>Patience pays off</h3>&nbsp;Marc Marquez made an excellent start, passing his brother on the first turn and sweeping past teammate Francesco Bagnaia, unbeaten here since 2022, on the second lap. That then set up a cat-and-mouse battle with Bezzecchi (Aprilia). Marquez had to wait until eight laps from the end before he could make the decisive move.&nbsp;Bezzecchi was then caught by the flying Aldeguer (BK8 Gresini), who briefly threatened to press Marquez for the chequered flag. In the end, the 20-year-old dropped off to secure second.&nbsp;"In the first part, he (Bezzecchi) was super strong, but then I just waited," said Marquez. "I tried in the beginning, but it was too risky; I preferred to wait and attack near the end.&nbsp;"But a new outsider arrived, and it was Aldeguer this time, and he was arriving super fast. But yes, I'm very happy for six victories in a row."&nbsp;In spite of starting second, Alex Marquez was always an outsider for the race win as he needed to serve a long-lap penalty for wiping out Honda's Joan Mir in an accident last time at the Czech MotoGP. He took it on lap three, which saw him drop from fourth to 11th, and he never recovered, finishing 10th.&nbsp;Reigning champion Jorge Martin's nightmare season continued when he crashed out in last place on turn 7 on lap 15.&nbsp;The Spaniard, who has said he will stay at Aprilia next season, sat out the first three races following two pre-season crashes. When he returned at Qatar in April, he crashed heavily again and missed the next seven races, only returning to the track in the last round in Brno.&nbsp;The next round of the championship takes place in Hungary next weekend.&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 the WION audience.

The Ducati rider, Marc Marquez, who started fourth on the grid, swept past pole-sitter Marco Bezzecchi on lap 20 and pulled away for his sixth successive victory. 

Marc Marquez was "super happy" to claim his first-ever win at the Red Bull Ring as he raced to victory in the Austrian MotoGP on Sunday (Aug 17). It was his ninth win of the season and stretched his lead at the top of the championship standings. The Ducati rider, who started fourth on the grid, swept past pole-sitter Marco Bezzecchi on lap 20 and pulled away for his sixth successive victory. Rookie Fermin Aldeguer closed on him in the final laps but had to settle for second, the best result of his fledgling career, with Bezzecchi completing the podium. "Yes, super, super happy to finally take the first victory here in Austria, I'm wearing the red bike (Ducati) and it was working super good," said Marquez. Victory in the 1000th MotoGP race completed a perfect weekend for the Spaniard, who, after a poor qualifying that saw him slide off the track, also won his 12th sprint of the season on Saturday. It also moves the 32-year-old one step closer to a seventh world title, his first since 2019. After 13 rounds of the 22-race season, Marquez is now 142 points clear of his brother Alex Marquez (Ducati-Gresini) in the standings. Patience pays off Marc Marquez made an excellent start, passing his brother on the first turn and sweeping past teammate Francesco Bagnaia, unbeaten here since 2022, on the second lap. That then set up a cat-and-mouse battle with Bezzecchi (Aprilia). Marquez had to wait until eight laps from the end before he could make the decisive move. Bezzecchi was then caught by the flying Aldeguer (BK8 Gresini), who briefly threatened to press Marquez for the chequered flag. In the end, the 20-year-old dropped off to secure second. "In the first part, he (Bezzecchi) was super strong, but then I just waited," said Marquez. "I tried in the beginning, but it was too risky; I preferred to wait and attack near the end. "But a new outsider arrived, and it was Aldeguer this time, and he was arriving super fast. But yes, I'm very happy for six victories in a row." In spite of starting second, Alex Marquez was always an outsider for the race win as he needed to serve a long-lap penalty for wiping out Honda's Joan Mir in an accident last time at the Czech MotoGP. He took it on lap three, which saw him drop from fourth to 11th, and he never recovered, finishing 10th. Reigning champion Jorge Martin's nightmare season continued when he crashed out in last place on turn 7 on lap 15. The Spaniard, who has said he will stay at Aprilia next season, sat out the first three races following two pre-season crashes. When he returned at Qatar in April, he crashed heavily again and missed the next seven races, only returning to the track in the last round in Brno. The next round of the championship takes place in Hungary next weekend. 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 the WION audience.

The Ducati rider, Marc Marquez, who started fourth on the grid, swept past pole-sitter Marco Bezzecchi on lap 20 and pulled away for his sixth successive victory.&nbsp;

Ducati’s Marc Marquez extends winning run with Austrian MotoGP win

The BCCI men’s selection committee is due to meet in Mumbai early next week to pick the squad for the 2025 Asia Cup, to be played in the T20 format. With the UAE hosting this eight-team tournament (September 9-28), the selectors and Suryakumar Yadav, the T20I captain, who will also be present during the meeting, will finalise those excelling in the shortest format. While all-format batter Shubman Gill’s name is popping up among the hot favourites, even ahead of attacking opener Yashasvi Jaiswal, there is another name – KL Rahul, who is also running for a place in the Asia Cup squad.&nbsp;However, former cricketer-turned-broadcaster Aakash Chopra has his reservations around Rahul’s selection, saying that although his IPL numbers are brilliant, it’s his mindset and inconsistent approach which is holding him back from going all out for a place in the T20I side.&nbsp; &nbsp;“He is a good player. If you see his IPL numbers, they are outstanding. In the recent past, no player has been a 600-run bank like him. However, a reputation has developed that he plays very slow at times. If something is stopping him, it’s his own mindset. Sometimes his legs are shackled, and when the mindset is right, he flies with wings,” Chopra said of Rahul’s weaknesses in the shortest format.&nbsp;Also read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/pakistan-selector-aaqib-javed-warns-india-ahead-of-asia-cup-tie-says-this-team-has-ability-to-beat-1755433936874">Pakistan selector warns India ahead of Asia Cup tie, says ‘This team has ability to beat…’</a> &nbsp;While he praised Rahul for some of his extraordinary strokeplay against the best of bowlers, including Jasprit Bumrah (in the IPL before), Chopra also pointed out that Rahul faces a stiff test for an opener’s slot in the Asia Cup squad, with several regular starters already ahead of him in the pecking order. &nbsp;“I remember a shot when he hit Bumrah for a six over cover, and I was like, wow. However, then you also get knocks when you feel he should hit, but he thinks differently,” Chopra said while lauding Rahul.&nbsp; &nbsp;“He cannot play as an opener because the opening story has ended for now. Sanju Samson is there with Abhishek Sharma, Yashasvi Jaiswal is behind them, and Shubman Gill is also in line; four people are standing,” the former Indian batter opined on Rahul’s chances of breaking into the top order in the Asia Cup squad. &nbsp;However, in another scenario, Rahul could play as a spare keeper-batter; with Jitesh Sharma, Dhruv Jurel, and Ishan Kishan ahead of him, it makes it challenging for the selectors to fit him in the T20I squad for the 2025 Asia Cup.

While all-format batter Shubman Gill’s name is popping up among the hot favourites, even ahead of attacking opener Yashasvi Jaiswal, there is another name – KL Rahul, who is also running for a place in the Asia Cup squad.

The BCCI men’s selection committee is due to meet in Mumbai early next week to pick the squad for the 2025 Asia Cup, to be played in the T20 format. With the UAE hosting this eight-team tournament (September 9-28), the selectors and Suryakumar Yadav, the T20I captain, who will also be present during the meeting, will finalise those excelling in the shortest format. While all-format batter Shubman Gill’s name is popping up among the hot favourites, even ahead of attacking opener Yashasvi Jaiswal, there is another name – KL Rahul, who is also running for a place in the Asia Cup squad. However, former cricketer-turned-broadcaster Aakash Chopra has his reservations around Rahul’s selection, saying that although his IPL numbers are brilliant, it’s his mindset and inconsistent approach which is holding him back from going all out for a place in the T20I side. “He is a good player. If you see his IPL numbers, they are outstanding. In the recent past, no player has been a 600-run bank like him. However, a reputation has developed that he plays very slow at times. If something is stopping him, it’s his own mindset. Sometimes his legs are shackled, and when the mindset is right, he flies with wings,” Chopra said of Rahul’s weaknesses in the shortest format. Also read | Pakistan selector warns India ahead of Asia Cup tie, says ‘This team has ability to beat…’ While he praised Rahul for some of his extraordinary strokeplay against the best of bowlers, including Jasprit Bumrah (in the IPL before), Chopra also pointed out that Rahul faces a stiff test for an opener’s slot in the Asia Cup squad, with several regular starters already ahead of him in the pecking order. “I remember a shot when he hit Bumrah for a six over cover, and I was like, wow. However, then you also get knocks when you feel he should hit, but he thinks differently,” Chopra said while lauding Rahul. “He cannot play as an opener because the opening story has ended for now. Sanju Samson is there with Abhishek Sharma, Yashasvi Jaiswal is behind them, and Shubman Gill is also in line; four people are standing,” the former Indian batter opined on Rahul’s chances of breaking into the top order in the Asia Cup squad. However, in another scenario, Rahul could play as a spare keeper-batter; with Jitesh Sharma, Dhruv Jurel, and Ishan Kishan ahead of him, it makes it challenging for the selectors to fit him in the T20I squad for the 2025 Asia Cup.

While all-format batter Shubman Gill’s name is popping up among the hot favourites, even ahead of attacking opener Yashasvi Jaiswal, there is another name – KL Rahul, who is also running for a place in the Asia Cup squad.

KL Rahul, not Gill, leads race for spot in Asia Cup squad but broadcaster Aakash Chopra feels…

From Virat Kohli to Ricky Ponting, here's a look at the five batters with most fifty-plus scores in international cricket.

From Virat Kohli to Ricky Ponting, here's a look at the five batters with the most fifty-plus scores in international cricket.

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From Sachin Tendulkar to Virat Kohli, here's a look at the top five Indian batters with the most centuries in international cricket.

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From David Warner to Quinton de Kock, here's a look at the top five batters with the most runs in Australia vs South Africa T20 Internationals.

From David Warner to Quinton de Kock, here's a look at the top five batters with the most runs in Australia vs South Africa T20 Internationals.

From David Warner to Quinton de Kock, 5 batters with most runs in AUS vs SA T20Is, only one active player on list

Pakistan selector and former pacer Aaqib Javed has fired shots at the Indian Cricket Team ahead of the marquee 2025 Asia Cup tie on September 14 in Dubai, saying the team, picked on Sunday (Aug 17), can beat anyone, including the Men in Blue, in the forthcoming continental tournament starting September 19 in the UAE. The <a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/cricket-babar-azam-mohammad-rizwan-dropped-as-pakistan-announce-squad-for-asia-cup-2025-1755415735161">Pakistan selectors announced the 17-man squad for the triangular T20I series and the eight-team tournament</a> that follows, shockingly leaving out batting stalwarts Babar Azam and keeper-batter Mohammad Rizwan. While India, Pakistan, Oman and the UAE are part of Group A, the remaining four teams (Sri Lanka, Afghanistan, Bangladesh and Hong Kong) consist of Group B.&nbsp;Even though the picked squad has some experienced players to shoulder the burden, Javed feels this team has everything it needs to topple India in the 2025 Asia Cup. &nbsp;“This team has the ability to beat India in the Asia Cup. Whether you like it or not, the match between India and Pakistan is the biggest in world cricket. Every player knows this,” PAK selector Javed said to the reporters on Sunday. “Our squad can beat any team. Everyone is ready. Everyone knows the situation surrounding the two countries. But we don't need to put extra pressure on them." &nbsp;Meanwhile, India and Pakistan might face off more than just once or even twice during this tournament. After their slated group game in Dubai, the two can again come up against each other in the next round (Super 4s), potentially a week later on next Sunday (Sep 21), should both top Group A. However, if they beat all their opponents to stand tall, India and Pakistan could end up facing each other in the 2025 Asia Cup final, which hasn't happened in the tournament's history thus far.<h3>Sour relations between arch-rivals &nbsp;</h3>India and Pakistan share tense relations heading into the 2025 Asia Cup. After Pakistan-based terrorists killed 26 innocent lives in broad daylight (on April 22) in India’s Kashmir in the deadliest attack on Indian soil since the 2019 Pulwama bombing, India retaliated with Operation Sindoor a fortnight later, triggering cross-border escalation. &nbsp;Meanwhile, despite the Indian Government’s efforts to boycott Pakistan on all fronts, its cricket board (BCCI) shockingly agreed to play against them in the 2025 Asia Cup, receiving massive backlash from the netizens.&nbsp;

Even though the picked squad has some experienced players to shoulder the burden, PAK selector Javed feels this team has everything it needs to topple India in the 2025 Asia Cup.

Pakistan selector and former pacer Aaqib Javed has fired shots at the Indian Cricket Team ahead of the marquee 2025 Asia Cup tie on September 14 in Dubai, saying the team, picked on Sunday (Aug 17), can beat anyone, including the Men in Blue, in the forthcoming continental tournament starting September 19 in the UAE. The Pakistan selectors announced the 17-man squad for the triangular T20I series and the eight-team tournament that follows, shockingly leaving out batting stalwarts Babar Azam and keeper-batter Mohammad Rizwan. While India, Pakistan, Oman and the UAE are part of Group A, the remaining four teams (Sri Lanka, Afghanistan, Bangladesh and Hong Kong) consist of Group B. Even though the picked squad has some experienced players to shoulder the burden, Javed feels this team has everything it needs to topple India in the 2025 Asia Cup. “This team has the ability to beat India in the Asia Cup. Whether you like it or not, the match between India and Pakistan is the biggest in world cricket. Every player knows this,” PAK selector Javed said to the reporters on Sunday. “Our squad can beat any team. Everyone is ready. Everyone knows the situation surrounding the two countries. But we don't need to put extra pressure on them." Meanwhile, India and Pakistan might face off more than just once or even twice during this tournament. After their slated group game in Dubai, the two can again come up against each other in the next round (Super 4s), potentially a week later on next Sunday (Sep 21), should both top Group A. However, if they beat all their opponents to stand tall, India and Pakistan could end up facing each other in the 2025 Asia Cup final, which hasn't happened in the tournament's history thus far. Sour relations between arch-rivals India and Pakistan share tense relations heading into the 2025 Asia Cup. After Pakistan-based terrorists killed 26 innocent lives in broad daylight (on April 22) in India’s Kashmir in the deadliest attack on Indian soil since the 2019 Pulwama bombing, India retaliated with Operation Sindoor a fortnight later, triggering cross-border escalation. Meanwhile, despite the Indian Government’s efforts to boycott Pakistan on all fronts, its cricket board (BCCI) shockingly agreed to play against them in the 2025 Asia Cup, receiving massive backlash from the netizens.

Even though the picked squad has some experienced players to shoulder the burden, PAK selector Javed feels this team has everything it needs to topple India in the 2025 Asia Cup.

Pakistan selector warns India ahead of Asia Cup tie, says ‘This team has ability to beat…’

From Sachin Tendulkar to Yuvraj Singh, here is a glance at five Indian batters with most ducks in ODIs. The unwanted list also features the likes of Javagal Srinath, Anil Kumble and Harbhajan Singh. 

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From Sachin Tendulkar to Yuvraj Singh, 5 Indian batters with most ducks in ODIs

From Kapil Dev to Yuvraj Singh, here is a list of five Indian batters to reach fastest ODI fifties. The list will shock you considering Ajit Agarkar tops the elite list while Rahul Dravid and Virender Sehwag are also part of it. 

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From Kapil Dev to Yuvraj Singh, 5 Indians with fastest ODI fifties – No. 1 will shock you

From Glenn Maxwell to Virat Kohli, here is a look at five fastest ODI hundred on Indian soil. The list also features the likes of Shahid Afridi, Aiden Markram and Kevin O’Brien. 

From Glenn Maxwell to Virat Kohli, here is a look at five fastest ODI hundred on Indian soil. The list also features the likes of Shahid Afridi, Aiden Markram and Kevin O’Brien.&nbsp;

From Glenn Maxwell to Virat Kohli, 5 fastest ODI hundred on Indian soil

Pakistan have announced their 15-man squad for the upcoming Asia Cup 2025 as they dropped a bombshell. The squad announced on Sunday (Aug 17) has seen two notable exclusions as Babar Azam and Mohammad Rizwan were dropped, while Salman Ali Agha will lead Pakistan. It will be the same squad that will feature against the UAE and Afghanistan as Pakistan go through a phase of transition.&nbsp;<h2>Babar, Rizwan dropped</h2>Babar and Rizwan, who have served Pakistan cricket for more than a decade, won’t be part of the squad that will challenge for the Asia Cup. The selectors have cleared their intention with the futures of Babar and Rizwan, who are now likely to face the axe in the T20 World Cup. Babar has been going through a rough patch of form and has now gone more than 700 days without an international hundred.&nbsp;&nbsp;For Rizwan, the situation is no different as he too looks out of touch with the national team. Having played more than 100 T20Is, Babar won’t feature in the Asia Cup squad, where Pakistan were victorious in 2016.&nbsp;&nbsp;The Men in Green had a horrible start to the year when they finished the Champions Trophy without a win. They finished rock bottom in Group A and notably lost to India in the UAE, where this year’s Asia Cup will be staged.&nbsp;&nbsp;ALSO READ | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/photos/from-rohit-sharma-to-virat-kohli-here-is-a-look-at-five-indian-batters-with-most-runs-in-asia-cup-odis-t20is-sachin-tendulkar-ms-dhoni-dhawan-1754123070628">From Rohit Sharma to Virat Kohli, 5 Indian batters with most runs in Asia Cup (ODIs + T20Is)</a>&nbsp;Pakistan will start their Asia Cup 2025 campaign against Oman on Friday (Sep 12) before facing India in a high-voltage clash on Sep 14. Pakistan will then conclude the group stage on Wednesday (Sep 17) against the UAE.&nbsp;&nbsp;According to the format, if both India and Pakistan finish in the top two of Group A, they will meet again in the Super 4 clash on Sep 21.&nbsp;<h2>Pakistan squad</h2>Salman Ali Agha (c), Abrar Ahmed, Faheem Ashraf, Fakhar Zaman, Haris Rauf, Hasan Ali, Hasan Nawaz, Hussain Talat, Khushdil Shah, Mohammad Haris (wk), Mohammad Nawaz, Mohammad Waseem Jnr, Sahibzada Farhan, Saim Ayub, Salman Mirza, Shaheen Shah Afridi and Sufyan Moqim.

The Asia Cup 2025 squad announced on Sunday has seen two notable exclusions as Babar Azam and Mohammad Rizwan were dropped, while Salman Ali Agha will lead Pakistan. It will be the same squad that will feature against the UAE and Afghanistan as Pakistan go through a phase of transition. 

Pakistan have announced their 15-man squad for the upcoming Asia Cup 2025 as they dropped a bombshell. The squad announced on Sunday (Aug 17) has seen two notable exclusions as Babar Azam and Mohammad Rizwan were dropped, while Salman Ali Agha will lead Pakistan. It will be the same squad that will feature against the UAE and Afghanistan as Pakistan go through a phase of transition. Babar, Rizwan dropped Babar and Rizwan, who have served Pakistan cricket for more than a decade, won’t be part of the squad that will challenge for the Asia Cup. The selectors have cleared their intention with the futures of Babar and Rizwan, who are now likely to face the axe in the T20 World Cup. Babar has been going through a rough patch of form and has now gone more than 700 days without an international hundred. For Rizwan, the situation is no different as he too looks out of touch with the national team. Having played more than 100 T20Is, Babar won’t feature in the Asia Cup squad, where Pakistan were victorious in 2016. The Men in Green had a horrible start to the year when they finished the Champions Trophy without a win. They finished rock bottom in Group A and notably lost to India in the UAE, where this year’s Asia Cup will be staged. ALSO READ | From Rohit Sharma to Virat Kohli, 5 Indian batters with most runs in Asia Cup (ODIs + T20Is) Pakistan will start their Asia Cup 2025 campaign against Oman on Friday (Sep 12) before facing India in a high-voltage clash on Sep 14. Pakistan will then conclude the group stage on Wednesday (Sep 17) against the UAE. According to the format, if both India and Pakistan finish in the top two of Group A, they will meet again in the Super 4 clash on Sep 21. Pakistan squad Salman Ali Agha (c), Abrar Ahmed, Faheem Ashraf, Fakhar Zaman, Haris Rauf, Hasan Ali, Hasan Nawaz, Hussain Talat, Khushdil Shah, Mohammad Haris (wk), Mohammad Nawaz, Mohammad Waseem Jnr, Sahibzada Farhan, Saim Ayub, Salman Mirza, Shaheen Shah Afridi and Sufyan Moqim.

The Asia Cup 2025 squad announced on Sunday has seen two notable exclusions as Babar Azam and Mohammad Rizwan were dropped, while Salman Ali Agha will lead Pakistan. It will be the same squad that will feature against the UAE and Afghanistan as Pakistan go through a phase of transition.&nbsp;

Babar Azam, Mohammad Rizwan dropped as Pakistan announce squad for 2025 Asia Cup

The Indian team’s preparations for the 2026 T20 World Cup will take its first step in the coming days as the squad selectors are set to announce the squad for the Asia Cup 2025. Expected to announce the squad on Tuesday (Aug 19), Asia Cup 2025 will be India’s first real step in building up to the T20 World Cup. So, who are the favourites to make the Indian squad for the 2026 T20 World Cup, who should be in and who should be out? Here’s a detailed analysis.&nbsp;<h2>Top Order</h2>Gautam Gambhir will hardly have to worry about the top order, as they will trust the impressive Abhishek Sharma and Sanju Samson in the position. Both have impressed in the past during the South Africa series and the IPL, meaning Yashasvi Jaiswal will no longer be in contention. The management could go with Shubman Gill as a back-up option in the opener’s position, while Sai Sudharsan will also bid for a place, having won the Orange Cap in IPL 2025.&nbsp;<h2>Middle Order</h2>Captain Suryakumar Yadav at No.3, followed by Tilak Varma and Hardik Pandya, should be the obvious choices as they remain unscathed. Varma scored two hundreds during the South Africa series in November 2024, while Hardik Pandya is India’s ace pick when it comes to the all-rounders. Considering Samson keeps wickets for India, Pandya could come to bat at No.5, while Rinku Singh’s exploits will see him bat at No.6.<h2>Bowling Order</h2>If fit, Jasprit Bumrah, Arshdeep Singh, Axar Patel and Kuldeep Yadav will be India’s first choice pick in the bowling unit. The fifth choice will come down to the playing conditions, which will be a shot between Varun Chakaravarthy and Ravi Bishnoi. Harshit Rana should also be in the frame if the management decides to go with three pacers in the Playing XI, which looks unlikely.&nbsp;&nbsp;ALSO READ | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/photos/from-rohit-sharma-to-virat-kohli-here-is-a-look-at-five-indian-batters-with-most-runs-in-asia-cup-odis-t20is-sachin-tendulkar-ms-dhoni-dhawan-1754123070628">From Rohit Sharma to Virat Kohli, 5 Indian batters with most runs in Asia Cup (ODIs + T20Is)</a><h2>Reserves</h2>Shubman Gill could be used as a reserve opener, but it won’t be surprising if he ends up on the bench for the entire tournament. Jitesh Sharma could be preferred as a backup to Sanju Samson, having impressed for RCB in IPL. Shreyas Iyer’s exploits with the bat should not go unnoticed and could serve as back-up to Tilak Varma and Suryakumar Yadav. Washington Sundar should also make the squad as back-up to Hardik Pandya, meaning that if the Mumbai Indians captain gets injured, India could use an extra pacer to compensate.&nbsp;&nbsp;Either Varun Chakaravarthy or Ravi Bishnoi should be in the reserves if one makes the Playing XI for India. Harshit Rana should be used as a back-up to Arshdeep and Bumrah if India decides to go with two pacers in the Playing XI. It is unlikely that India will play with three pacers in the Playing XI.<h2>Notable players likely to miss out</h2>Yashasvi Jaiswal should find himself out of contention with competition for places, while Yuzvendra Chahal and Mohammed Shami should also sit out of the squad. Ishan Kishan’s dream of a return to the Indian squad could be in jeopardy if Jitesh Sharma is considered. RCB’s unsung duo of Yash Dayal and Bhuvneshwar Kumar are likely to miss out if the selectors go with other notable options.

Expected to announce the squad on Tuesday (Aug 19), Asia Cup 2025 will be India’s first real step in building up to the T20 World Cup. So, who are the favourites to make the Indian squad for the 2026 T20 World Cup, who should be in and who should be out? Here’s a detailed analysis. 

The Indian team’s preparations for the 2026 T20 World Cup will take its first step in the coming days as the squad selectors are set to announce the squad for the Asia Cup 2025. Expected to announce the squad on Tuesday (Aug 19), Asia Cup 2025 will be India’s first real step in building up to the T20 World Cup. So, who are the favourites to make the Indian squad for the 2026 T20 World Cup, who should be in and who should be out? Here’s a detailed analysis. Top Order Gautam Gambhir will hardly have to worry about the top order, as they will trust the impressive Abhishek Sharma and Sanju Samson in the position. Both have impressed in the past during the South Africa series and the IPL, meaning Yashasvi Jaiswal will no longer be in contention. The management could go with Shubman Gill as a back-up option in the opener’s position, while Sai Sudharsan will also bid for a place, having won the Orange Cap in IPL 2025. Middle Order Captain Suryakumar Yadav at No.3, followed by Tilak Varma and Hardik Pandya, should be the obvious choices as they remain unscathed. Varma scored two hundreds during the South Africa series in November 2024, while Hardik Pandya is India’s ace pick when it comes to the all-rounders. Considering Samson keeps wickets for India, Pandya could come to bat at No.5, while Rinku Singh’s exploits will see him bat at No.6. Bowling Order If fit, Jasprit Bumrah, Arshdeep Singh, Axar Patel and Kuldeep Yadav will be India’s first choice pick in the bowling unit. The fifth choice will come down to the playing conditions, which will be a shot between Varun Chakaravarthy and Ravi Bishnoi. Harshit Rana should also be in the frame if the management decides to go with three pacers in the Playing XI, which looks unlikely. ALSO READ | From Rohit Sharma to Virat Kohli, 5 Indian batters with most runs in Asia Cup (ODIs + T20Is) Reserves Shubman Gill could be used as a reserve opener, but it won’t be surprising if he ends up on the bench for the entire tournament. Jitesh Sharma could be preferred as a backup to Sanju Samson, having impressed for RCB in IPL. Shreyas Iyer’s exploits with the bat should not go unnoticed and could serve as back-up to Tilak Varma and Suryakumar Yadav. Washington Sundar should also make the squad as back-up to Hardik Pandya, meaning that if the Mumbai Indians captain gets injured, India could use an extra pacer to compensate. Either Varun Chakaravarthy or Ravi Bishnoi should be in the reserves if one makes the Playing XI for India. Harshit Rana should be used as a back-up to Arshdeep and Bumrah if India decides to go with two pacers in the Playing XI. It is unlikely that India will play with three pacers in the Playing XI. Notable players likely to miss out Yashasvi Jaiswal should find himself out of contention with competition for places, while Yuzvendra Chahal and Mohammed Shami should also sit out of the squad. Ishan Kishan’s dream of a return to the Indian squad could be in jeopardy if Jitesh Sharma is considered. RCB’s unsung duo of Yash Dayal and Bhuvneshwar Kumar are likely to miss out if the selectors go with other notable options.

Expected to announce the squad on Tuesday (Aug 19), Asia Cup 2025 will be India’s first real step in building up to the T20 World Cup. So, who are the favourites to make the Indian squad for the 2026 T20 World Cup, who should be in and who should be out? Here’s a detailed analysis.&nbsp;

India's probable T20 World Cup squad: How will defending champions shape up - Jitesh Sharma in, Ishan Kishan out

India’s ace speedster Jasprit Bumrah is set to feature in the upcoming Asia Cup 2025 after he confirmed his availability for the continental tournament. According to a prominent report, Bumrah is fit again to be available for the Asia Cup after doubts were raised on his fitness during the England tour, where he featured in just three matches. The selectors are set to meet on Tuesday (Aug 19) to decide India’s final squad for the Asia Cup, which will be played in T20 format.&nbsp;<h2>Bumrah available for Asia Cup</h2>"Bumrah has informed the selectors that he will be available for the Asia Cup selection. The selection committee will meet and discuss it when they meet next week," a source was quoted as saying, according to The Indian Express.&nbsp;Bumrah played three matches during the England tour and missed two matches owing to workload management. The pacer has been instrumental for India in all formats, but injuries have limited his involvement in the side.&nbsp;&nbsp;India is set to play against the West Indies immediately after the Asia Cup in a two-match Test series, meaning he could miss that series as part of the workload management. Bumrah was instrumental in India’s T20 World Cup-winning campaign in 2024 and will be eager to prove his worth as the next edition is set to take place in February and March 2026.&nbsp;On the other hand, Suryakumar Yadav has also reportedly passed his fitness test and will be available for the Asia Cup, which will be played in T20 format. He will be India’s captain for the series despite calls for Hardik Pandya and Shubman Gill to take the role.&nbsp;ALSO READ | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/photos/from-rohit-sharma-to-virat-kohli-here-is-a-look-at-five-indian-batters-with-most-runs-in-asia-cup-odis-t20is-sachin-tendulkar-ms-dhoni-dhawan-1754123070628">From Rohit Sharma to Virat Kohli, 5 Indian batters with most runs in Asia Cup (ODIs + T20Is)</a><h2>When is the Asian Cup 2025?</h2>The Asia Cup 2025 will start on September 9 in the UAE as part of the neutral venue agreement despite India being the host. Eight teams will participate in the tournament, with them being divided into two groups of four teams each. Each team will play every other team in the group in a round robin format. The top two teams from each group will qualify for the Super Four stage, where the four teams will again play in a round robin format.&nbsp;&nbsp;The top two teams from the round robin format will qualify for the final, which takes place on September 21. The entire tournament will be played in a T20I format.&nbsp;India’s high-voltage clash against Pakistan will take place on Sep 14, while the Men in Blue will open their campaign against the UAE on Sep 10. India’s remaining group game against Oman will take place Sep 19, before the Super Four stage begins.

Jasprit Bumrah played three matches during the England tour and missed two matches owing to workload management. The pacer has been instrumental for India in all formats, but injuries have limited his involvement in the side. 

India’s ace speedster Jasprit Bumrah is set to feature in the upcoming Asia Cup 2025 after he confirmed his availability for the continental tournament. According to a prominent report, Bumrah is fit again to be available for the Asia Cup after doubts were raised on his fitness during the England tour, where he featured in just three matches. The selectors are set to meet on Tuesday (Aug 19) to decide India’s final squad for the Asia Cup, which will be played in T20 format. Bumrah available for Asia Cup "Bumrah has informed the selectors that he will be available for the Asia Cup selection. The selection committee will meet and discuss it when they meet next week," a source was quoted as saying, according to The Indian Express. Bumrah played three matches during the England tour and missed two matches owing to workload management. The pacer has been instrumental for India in all formats, but injuries have limited his involvement in the side. India is set to play against the West Indies immediately after the Asia Cup in a two-match Test series, meaning he could miss that series as part of the workload management. Bumrah was instrumental in India’s T20 World Cup-winning campaign in 2024 and will be eager to prove his worth as the next edition is set to take place in February and March 2026. On the other hand, Suryakumar Yadav has also reportedly passed his fitness test and will be available for the Asia Cup, which will be played in T20 format. He will be India’s captain for the series despite calls for Hardik Pandya and Shubman Gill to take the role. ALSO READ | From Rohit Sharma to Virat Kohli, 5 Indian batters with most runs in Asia Cup (ODIs + T20Is) When is the Asian Cup 2025? The Asia Cup 2025 will start on September 9 in the UAE as part of the neutral venue agreement despite India being the host. Eight teams will participate in the tournament, with them being divided into two groups of four teams each. Each team will play every other team in the group in a round robin format. The top two teams from each group will qualify for the Super Four stage, where the four teams will again play in a round robin format. The top two teams from the round robin format will qualify for the final, which takes place on September 21. The entire tournament will be played in a T20I format. India’s high-voltage clash against Pakistan will take place on Sep 14, while the Men in Blue will open their campaign against the UAE on Sep 10. India’s remaining group game against Oman will take place Sep 19, before the Super Four stage begins.

Jasprit Bumrah played three matches during the England tour and missed two matches owing to workload management. The pacer has been instrumental for India in all formats, but injuries have limited his involvement in the side.&nbsp;

Fit again Jasprit Bumrah set to feature in India's Asia Cup 2025 squad - Report

Veteran spinner Ravichandran Ashwin has cleared the air surrounding his controversial comment on Chennai Super Kings' (CSK) pursuit of South African batter Dewald Brevis. The South African batter, who was signed mid-season by CSK during the Indian Premier League (IPL 2025) season, became a point of controversy in the last two days as Ashwin’s remarks suggested that the franchise paid extra money for Brewis. However, CSK issued a statement on Saturday (Aug 16) on the situation before Ashwin clarified.&nbsp;<h2>Ashwin clears air</h2>“The IPL or those who need to give approval give the approval, and the player comes and plays. If there was any fault here, that player would not have played in the franchise. This is not about Brevis; it is generally the case. There is one other thing I want to explain. My intention in the video was to describe how well Brevis was batting. We have to understand that every player who plays in the IPL has a tri-parted contract: The player, franchise, and the IPL have a binding contract,” Ashwin said while speaking to his YouTube channel.&nbsp;Ashwin’s earlier comments had left many shocked as he raised the point of extra money. This indicated CSK might have paid an extra sum, more than Brevis’s actual base price, to land him at the franchise while other teams were also showing interest.&nbsp;<h2>What was the comment?</h2>"Dewald Brevis had a great time in the IPL last year after CSK got him in the back half of the season," Ashwin said on his YouTube channel. "I even heard that two-three teams were also talking to him, but they had to let him go after not being able to pay extra money. He had a base price in the auction, but discussions and negotiations would have happened with his agent, that 'I'll join the team only for a certain sum of money.”&nbsp;ALSO READ | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/photos/from-rohit-sharma-to-virat-kohli-here-is-a-look-at-five-indian-batters-with-most-runs-in-asia-cup-odis-t20is-sachin-tendulkar-ms-dhoni-dhawan-1754123070628">From Rohit Sharma to Virat Kohli, 5 Indian batters with most runs in Asia Cup (ODIs + T20Is)</a>&nbsp;To ease the situation, CSK released an official statement, “A replacement Player signed pursuant to either paragraph 6.1 or 6.2 can be recruited at a League Fee which shall not be more than the League Fee that would have been payable to the injured/unavailable Player for the relevant Season.&nbsp;&nbsp;“If a Replacement Player is recruited during a Season, the League Fee actually paid to him will be reduced to take account of the Franchisee’s matches during the relevant Season which took place before he was registered and any other relevant deductions under the Player Contract,” the statement concluded.

Ravichandran Ashwin’s earlier comments had left many shocked as he raised the point of extra money. This indicated CSK might have paid an extra sum, more than Dewald Brevis’s actual base price, to land him at the franchise while other teams were also showing interest. 

Veteran spinner Ravichandran Ashwin has cleared the air surrounding his controversial comment on Chennai Super Kings' (CSK) pursuit of South African batter Dewald Brevis. The South African batter, who was signed mid-season by CSK during the Indian Premier League (IPL 2025) season, became a point of controversy in the last two days as Ashwin’s remarks suggested that the franchise paid extra money for Brewis. However, CSK issued a statement on Saturday (Aug 16) on the situation before Ashwin clarified. Ashwin clears air “The IPL or those who need to give approval give the approval, and the player comes and plays. If there was any fault here, that player would not have played in the franchise. This is not about Brevis; it is generally the case. There is one other thing I want to explain. My intention in the video was to describe how well Brevis was batting. We have to understand that every player who plays in the IPL has a tri-parted contract: The player, franchise, and the IPL have a binding contract,” Ashwin said while speaking to his YouTube channel. Ashwin’s earlier comments had left many shocked as he raised the point of extra money. This indicated CSK might have paid an extra sum, more than Brevis’s actual base price, to land him at the franchise while other teams were also showing interest. What was the comment? "Dewald Brevis had a great time in the IPL last year after CSK got him in the back half of the season," Ashwin said on his YouTube channel. "I even heard that two-three teams were also talking to him, but they had to let him go after not being able to pay extra money. He had a base price in the auction, but discussions and negotiations would have happened with his agent, that 'I'll join the team only for a certain sum of money.” ALSO READ | From Rohit Sharma to Virat Kohli, 5 Indian batters with most runs in Asia Cup (ODIs + T20Is) To ease the situation, CSK released an official statement, “A replacement Player signed pursuant to either paragraph 6.1 or 6.2 can be recruited at a League Fee which shall not be more than the League Fee that would have been payable to the injured/unavailable Player for the relevant Season. “If a Replacement Player is recruited during a Season, the League Fee actually paid to him will be reduced to take account of the Franchisee’s matches during the relevant Season which took place before he was registered and any other relevant deductions under the Player Contract,” the statement concluded.

Ravichandran Ashwin’s earlier comments had left many shocked as he raised the point of extra money. This indicated CSK might have paid an extra sum, more than Dewald Brevis’s actual base price, to land him at the franchise while other teams were also showing interest.&nbsp;

Ravi Ashwin gives clarification on Dewald Brevis, CSK situation, says 'my intention was to...'

Spanish champions Barcelona opened their Liga campaign on Saturday with an island cruise as they played almost an hour against nine men on their way to a 3-0 victory in Mallorca. Barcelona's second-half stroll did not please coach Hansi Flick.&nbsp;"They're three important points, but I didn't like the match," he told broadcaster Movistar. "After going two goals up and following Mallorca's two red cards, I think the team only gave 50 percent and I didn't like that."&nbsp;"Playing at 50 or 60 per cent is not possible against nine players."&nbsp;Two of Barcelona's Ballon d'Or nominees combined to put the visitors ahead after seven minutes, Lamine Yamal crossing for Raphinha to head in.&nbsp;Yamal played a key role in the second goal after 23 minutes. Mallorca defender Antonio Raillo headed away the teenager's shot and then fell to the ground.&nbsp;As the referee waved play on and Mallorca failed to clear, the ball fell to Ferran Torres. He fired home from the edge of the box.&nbsp;"If I would be on the other side of the decision I also would be not happy but I always say to my team until the referee stops the match we have to continue," said Flick speaking in English at the post-match press conference.&nbsp;"The referee didn't stop the match so there you go. That they are unhappy with that decision I can also imagine."&nbsp;Manu Morlanes was one of two Mallorca players booked for dissent as they told the referee he should have stopped the game.&nbsp;Ten minutes later, Morlanes received a second yellow for a challenge on the rampant Yamal and was sent off.&nbsp;In the 39th minute, as Barcelona's debutant goalkeeper Joan Garcia jumped to head a ball clear, Mallorca striker Vedat Muriqi challenged with his boot so high he planted his studs on Garcia's cheek. Muriqi also saw red.&nbsp;ALSO READ | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/photos/from-rohit-sharma-to-virat-kohli-here-is-a-look-at-five-indian-batters-with-most-runs-in-asia-cup-odis-t20is-sachin-tendulkar-ms-dhoni-dhawan-1754123070628">From Rohit Sharma to Virat Kohli, 5 Indian batters with most runs in Asia Cup (ODIs + T20Is)</a>&nbsp;Barcelona strolled through the second half. Flick brought on summer loan signing Marcus Rashford, whose league registration only cleared on Saturday morning, for his Liga debut.&nbsp;Deep into injury time Yamal picked up the ball on the right, left three defenders trailing as he cut across the top of the penalty area and curled a left-foot shot into the top corner with the final kick of the game.&nbsp;"He surprises you every day. He's a spectacular player," said Flick.&nbsp;In the evening's late games Valencia drew 1-1 at home to Real Sociedad. Diego Lopez gave the hosts a 57th-minute lead, Takefusa Kubo replied three minutes later.&nbsp;In Vitoria, Argentine centre back Facundo Tenaglia fired home from close range after a free kick in added time to give hosts Alaves a 2-1 victory over promoted Levante.&nbsp;Atletico Madrid start their campaign on Sunday at home to Sevilla. Real Madrid close the opening round on Tuesday against Osasuna.&nbsp;On Friday, Jorge de Frutos scored the first goal of the new La Liga season to set Rayo Vallecano on their way to a 3-1 win over 10-man Girona.&nbsp;Real Oviedo's return to the top flight after a 24-year absence began on a flat note with a 2-0 defeat at Villarreal.&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.

Two of Barcelona's Ballon d'Or nominees combined to put the visitors ahead after seven minutes, Lamine Yamal crossing for Raphinha to head in.

Spanish champions Barcelona opened their Liga campaign on Saturday with an island cruise as they played almost an hour against nine men on their way to a 3-0 victory in Mallorca. Barcelona's second-half stroll did not please coach Hansi Flick. "They're three important points, but I didn't like the match," he told broadcaster Movistar. "After going two goals up and following Mallorca's two red cards, I think the team only gave 50 percent and I didn't like that." "Playing at 50 or 60 per cent is not possible against nine players." Two of Barcelona's Ballon d'Or nominees combined to put the visitors ahead after seven minutes, Lamine Yamal crossing for Raphinha to head in. Yamal played a key role in the second goal after 23 minutes. Mallorca defender Antonio Raillo headed away the teenager's shot and then fell to the ground. As the referee waved play on and Mallorca failed to clear, the ball fell to Ferran Torres. He fired home from the edge of the box. "If I would be on the other side of the decision I also would be not happy but I always say to my team until the referee stops the match we have to continue," said Flick speaking in English at the post-match press conference. "The referee didn't stop the match so there you go. That they are unhappy with that decision I can also imagine." Manu Morlanes was one of two Mallorca players booked for dissent as they told the referee he should have stopped the game. Ten minutes later, Morlanes received a second yellow for a challenge on the rampant Yamal and was sent off. In the 39th minute, as Barcelona's debutant goalkeeper Joan Garcia jumped to head a ball clear, Mallorca striker Vedat Muriqi challenged with his boot so high he planted his studs on Garcia's cheek. Muriqi also saw red. ALSO READ | From Rohit Sharma to Virat Kohli, 5 Indian batters with most runs in Asia Cup (ODIs + T20Is) Barcelona strolled through the second half. Flick brought on summer loan signing Marcus Rashford, whose league registration only cleared on Saturday morning, for his Liga debut. Deep into injury time Yamal picked up the ball on the right, left three defenders trailing as he cut across the top of the penalty area and curled a left-foot shot into the top corner with the final kick of the game. "He surprises you every day. He's a spectacular player," said Flick. In the evening's late games Valencia drew 1-1 at home to Real Sociedad. Diego Lopez gave the hosts a 57th-minute lead, Takefusa Kubo replied three minutes later. In Vitoria, Argentine centre back Facundo Tenaglia fired home from close range after a free kick in added time to give hosts Alaves a 2-1 victory over promoted Levante. Atletico Madrid start their campaign on Sunday at home to Sevilla. Real Madrid close the opening round on Tuesday against Osasuna. On Friday, Jorge de Frutos scored the first goal of the new La Liga season to set Rayo Vallecano on their way to a 3-1 win over 10-man Girona. Real Oviedo's return to the top flight after a 24-year absence began on a flat note with a 2-0 defeat at Villarreal. 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.

Two of Barcelona's Ballon d'Or nominees combined to put the visitors ahead after seven minutes, Lamine Yamal crossing for Raphinha to head in.

Barcelona open La Liga title defence strolling past nine-man Mallorca

World number one Jannik Sinner and hot rival Carlos Alcaraz will face off in a major final for the fourth time this season after both booked straight-set wins into the title match at the ATP-WTA Cincinnati Open on Saturday.&nbsp;Defending champion Sinner ruthlessly subdued 136th-ranked qualifier Terence Atmane 7-6 (7/4), 6-2 while Spanish second seed Alcaraz defeated an ailing Alexander Zverev, who was suffering badly from the 32 Celsius heat and humidity, by 6-4, 6-3.&nbsp;Alcaraz and Sinner have played for trophies this season in Rome, Roland Garros and Wimbledon, with the Italian winning their most recent at the All England Club last month.&nbsp;Sinner, celebrating his 24th birthday, ended Frenchman Atmane's dream run and will now try to become the first man since Roger Federer in 2014-15 to win back-to-back titles in Cincinnati.&nbsp;Sinner, tuning up for the US Open in his first tournament since winning Wimbledon, hasn't dropped a set en route to the final.&nbsp;"It's a very, very tough challenge every time you play a new opponent," Sinner said. "In the later stages of the tournament,the pressure is on, they deserve to be there."&nbsp;Alcaraz will also be playing in his second Cincy final after losing to Novak Djokovic in 2023.&nbsp;The Spaniard increased his ATP season match win lead to 53 in a year of five titles.&nbsp;Alcaraz broke Zverev once in the opening set to claim it before the German, who is diabetic, began feeling poorly and took a medical timeout off court after the third game of the second set.&nbsp;Zverev, who has retired in only two matches since 2014, came back out to finish what was a patchy match from Alcaraz, who double-faulted for times in the second game of the second set but won the last 12 points with Zverev running on fumes.&nbsp;"We started well with good rallies, a good level," Alcaraz said. "All of a sudden he felt bad and I was thinking more about how he was feeling instead of playing good tennis."It was tough and I just wish him all the best."&nbsp;Alcaraz said he is keen to try and take his Wimbledon revenge on Sinner in the unorthodox Monday final.&nbsp;"We always bring our best tennis. We raise each other's level. I'm ready to take the challenge," Alcaraz said.&nbsp;"I will try and adjust my game better and correct what I did wrong in our last match. I want to be ready with my 100%. Mentally I'll be ready -- I'm excited for Monday."&nbsp;ALSO READ | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/photos/from-rohit-sharma-to-virat-kohli-here-is-a-look-at-five-indian-batters-with-most-runs-in-asia-cup-odis-t20is-sachin-tendulkar-ms-dhoni-dhawan-1754123070628">From Rohit Sharma to Virat Kohli, 5 Indian batters with most runs in Asia Cup (ODIs + T20Is)</a><h2>Pressure was on me</h2>Atmane gave birthday boy Sinner a Pokemon card shortly before they went on court, but he was in a less giving mood once they were underway.&nbsp;But Sinner surrendered just three points in his first six service games as they went to the tiebreaker with neither man facing a break point.&nbsp;Atmane double faulted on the first point of the decider and Sinner was away, powering to a 5-2 lead and pocketing the set at his second opportunity.&nbsp;"My experience helped in the first set," he said. "I'm very happy to go through to another final.&nbsp;"I tried to focus on myself, how I usually play, and then try to adapt a little bit to his game style," Sinner said. "And that's exactly what I did today.&nbsp;"The pressure was on me. That's normal in the position where I am in -- he was ready to fight."&nbsp;"My goal has always been the US Open, But we have put in the work here, in the gym and in practice. I just hope to be ready for New York."&nbsp;Sinner showed a first sign of vulnerability as he needed five game points to hold serve in the opening game of the second set.&nbsp;But that was the closest look Atmane got at his serve, and Sinner broke the Frenchman for a 3-1 lead and again to seal the match.&nbsp;Atmane, who is projected to crack the top 70 in the world rankings, became Sinner's 22nd straight French victim since May 2021, when he lost to Arthur Rinderknech in Lyon.&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.

Defending champion Jannik Sinner ruthlessly subdued 136th-ranked qualifier Terence Atmane 7-6 (7/4), 6-2 while Spanish second seed Carlos Alcaraz defeated an ailing Alexander Zverev, who was suffering badly from the 32 Celsius heat and humidity, by 6-4, 6-3.

World number one Jannik Sinner and hot rival Carlos Alcaraz will face off in a major final for the fourth time this season after both booked straight-set wins into the title match at the ATP-WTA Cincinnati Open on Saturday. Defending champion Sinner ruthlessly subdued 136th-ranked qualifier Terence Atmane 7-6 (7/4), 6-2 while Spanish second seed Alcaraz defeated an ailing Alexander Zverev, who was suffering badly from the 32 Celsius heat and humidity, by 6-4, 6-3. Alcaraz and Sinner have played for trophies this season in Rome, Roland Garros and Wimbledon, with the Italian winning their most recent at the All England Club last month. Sinner, celebrating his 24th birthday, ended Frenchman Atmane's dream run and will now try to become the first man since Roger Federer in 2014-15 to win back-to-back titles in Cincinnati. Sinner, tuning up for the US Open in his first tournament since winning Wimbledon, hasn't dropped a set en route to the final. "It's a very, very tough challenge every time you play a new opponent," Sinner said. "In the later stages of the tournament,the pressure is on, they deserve to be there." Alcaraz will also be playing in his second Cincy final after losing to Novak Djokovic in 2023. The Spaniard increased his ATP season match win lead to 53 in a year of five titles. Alcaraz broke Zverev once in the opening set to claim it before the German, who is diabetic, began feeling poorly and took a medical timeout off court after the third game of the second set. Zverev, who has retired in only two matches since 2014, came back out to finish what was a patchy match from Alcaraz, who double-faulted for times in the second game of the second set but won the last 12 points with Zverev running on fumes. "We started well with good rallies, a good level," Alcaraz said. "All of a sudden he felt bad and I was thinking more about how he was feeling instead of playing good tennis. "It was tough and I just wish him all the best." Alcaraz said he is keen to try and take his Wimbledon revenge on Sinner in the unorthodox Monday final. "We always bring our best tennis. We raise each other's level. I'm ready to take the challenge," Alcaraz said. "I will try and adjust my game better and correct what I did wrong in our last match. I want to be ready with my 100%. Mentally I'll be ready -- I'm excited for Monday." ALSO READ | From Rohit Sharma to Virat Kohli, 5 Indian batters with most runs in Asia Cup (ODIs + T20Is) Pressure was on me Atmane gave birthday boy Sinner a Pokemon card shortly before they went on court, but he was in a less giving mood once they were underway. But Sinner surrendered just three points in his first six service games as they went to the tiebreaker with neither man facing a break point. Atmane double faulted on the first point of the decider and Sinner was away, powering to a 5-2 lead and pocketing the set at his second opportunity. "My experience helped in the first set," he said. "I'm very happy to go through to another final. "I tried to focus on myself, how I usually play, and then try to adapt a little bit to his game style," Sinner said. "And that's exactly what I did today. "The pressure was on me. That's normal in the position where I am in -- he was ready to fight." "My goal has always been the US Open, But we have put in the work here, in the gym and in practice. I just hope to be ready for New York." Sinner showed a first sign of vulnerability as he needed five game points to hold serve in the opening game of the second set. But that was the closest look Atmane got at his serve, and Sinner broke the Frenchman for a 3-1 lead and again to seal the match. Atmane, who is projected to crack the top 70 in the world rankings, became Sinner's 22nd straight French victim since May 2021, when he lost to Arthur Rinderknech in Lyon. 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.

Defending champion Jannik Sinner ruthlessly subdued 136th-ranked qualifier Terence Atmane 7-6 (7/4), 6-2 while Spanish second seed Carlos Alcaraz defeated an ailing Alexander Zverev, who was suffering badly from the 32 Celsius heat and humidity, by 6-4, 6-3.

Cincinnati Open: Carlos Alcaraz to face defending champ Jannik Sinner in final

Lionel Messi returned from injury as a reserve and scored in the 84th minute to spark Inter Miami over the defending MLS champion Los Angeles Galaxy 3-1 on Saturday. The iconic 38-year-old Argentine striker was back on the field for Miami after suffering what Inter coach Javier Mascherano had called a "minor muscle injury" -- an apparent hamstring strain -- in Inter's August 2 Leagues Cup victory over Mexican side Necaxa.&nbsp;"It had been something very small," Mascherano said of his injury after the match. "The three training sessions we had were good. The important thing is that the match ended. As the minutes went by, I saw him better. We have to see how he feels tomorrow."&nbsp;Eight-time Ballon d'Or winner Messi, who missed a Leagues Cup win over Pumas UNAM and last weekend's MLS loss at Orlando City, was on the bench as a reserve before entering in the second half, replacing Telasco Segovia.&nbsp;"We had planned the match to give minutes to Leo. The idea was to give him 45 minutes so that he can find sensations," Mascherano said. "I didn't see him after the game. Tomorrow we'll see what feelings he had.&nbsp;"He's an extraordinary player. I saw that he was clearly not 100 percent comfortable but as the minutes went by he was loosening up more and more. We will have to see how he ended with the fatigue."&nbsp;Jordi Alba scored for Miami in the 43rd minute but Joseph Paintsil equalized for the Galaxy in the 59th minute.&nbsp;Messi scored in the 84th and Luis Suarez added an insurance tally in the 89th off an assist from Messi to produce the final victory margin.&nbsp;Messi, the reigning MLS Most Valuable Player, has 19 goals and 10 assists in 19 MLS appearances for Miami this season.&nbsp;ALSO READ | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/photos/from-rohit-sharma-to-virat-kohli-here-is-a-look-at-five-indian-batters-with-most-runs-in-asia-cup-odis-t20is-sachin-tendulkar-ms-dhoni-dhawan-1754123070628">From Rohit Sharma to Virat Kohli, 5 Indian batters with most runs in Asia Cup (ODIs + T20Is)</a>&nbsp;He also has the Herons into the quarter-finals of the Leagues Cup, which they won in 2023 just after Messi's arrival. Miami will play Tigres in a Cup quarter-final on Wednesday.&nbsp;"He wants to play every single game," Mascherano said. "You have to understand why Leo is Leo. He always wants to be on the pitch. He's happy there. Sometimes we try to explain him that we have to go slowly but when he feels good he knows himself like no one. In the end we tried to give him some minutes today to start having good feelings for Wednesday."&nbsp;Inter Miami rank fourth in the MLS Eastern Conference, six points behind MLS leaders Philadelphia but with three matches in hand.&nbsp;South Korean international and former Tottenham Hotspur striker Son Heung-min picked up his first MLS victory in his first MLS start as LAFC won 2-0 at New England.&nbsp;Son, who helped LAFC take a draw in Chicago last week as a reserve in his league debut, assisted on the LAFC win-clinching goal by Mathieu Choiniere in the fourth minute of second half stoppage time.&nbsp;Marco Delgado scored LAFC's first goal in the 51st minute.&nbsp;LAFC rank fifth in the Western Conference, nine points adrift of pace-setting San Diego with two matches in hand.&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.

Eight-time Ballon d'Or winner Lionel Messi, who missed a Leagues Cup win over Pumas UNAM and last weekend's MLS loss at Orlando City, was on the bench as a reserve before entering in the second half, replacing Telasco Segovia.

Lionel Messi returned from injury as a reserve and scored in the 84th minute to spark Inter Miami over the defending MLS champion Los Angeles Galaxy 3-1 on Saturday. The iconic 38-year-old Argentine striker was back on the field for Miami after suffering what Inter coach Javier Mascherano had called a "minor muscle injury" -- an apparent hamstring strain -- in Inter's August 2 Leagues Cup victory over Mexican side Necaxa. "It had been something very small," Mascherano said of his injury after the match. "The three training sessions we had were good. The important thing is that the match ended. As the minutes went by, I saw him better. We have to see how he feels tomorrow." Eight-time Ballon d'Or winner Messi, who missed a Leagues Cup win over Pumas UNAM and last weekend's MLS loss at Orlando City, was on the bench as a reserve before entering in the second half, replacing Telasco Segovia. "We had planned the match to give minutes to Leo. The idea was to give him 45 minutes so that he can find sensations," Mascherano said. "I didn't see him after the game. Tomorrow we'll see what feelings he had. "He's an extraordinary player. I saw that he was clearly not 100 percent comfortable but as the minutes went by he was loosening up more and more. We will have to see how he ended with the fatigue." Jordi Alba scored for Miami in the 43rd minute but Joseph Paintsil equalized for the Galaxy in the 59th minute. Messi scored in the 84th and Luis Suarez added an insurance tally in the 89th off an assist from Messi to produce the final victory margin. Messi, the reigning MLS Most Valuable Player, has 19 goals and 10 assists in 19 MLS appearances for Miami this season. ALSO READ | From Rohit Sharma to Virat Kohli, 5 Indian batters with most runs in Asia Cup (ODIs + T20Is) He also has the Herons into the quarter-finals of the Leagues Cup, which they won in 2023 just after Messi's arrival. Miami will play Tigres in a Cup quarter-final on Wednesday. "He wants to play every single game," Mascherano said. "You have to understand why Leo is Leo. He always wants to be on the pitch. He's happy there. Sometimes we try to explain him that we have to go slowly but when he feels good he knows himself like no one. In the end we tried to give him some minutes today to start having good feelings for Wednesday." Inter Miami rank fourth in the MLS Eastern Conference, six points behind MLS leaders Philadelphia but with three matches in hand. South Korean international and former Tottenham Hotspur striker Son Heung-min picked up his first MLS victory in his first MLS start as LAFC won 2-0 at New England. Son, who helped LAFC take a draw in Chicago last week as a reserve in his league debut, assisted on the LAFC win-clinching goal by Mathieu Choiniere in the fourth minute of second half stoppage time. Marco Delgado scored LAFC's first goal in the 51st minute. LAFC rank fifth in the Western Conference, nine points adrift of pace-setting San Diego with two matches in hand. 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.

Eight-time Ballon d'Or winner Lionel Messi, who missed a Leagues Cup win over Pumas UNAM and last weekend's MLS loss at Orlando City, was on the bench as a reserve before entering in the second half, replacing Telasco Segovia.

Lionel Messi scores in Inter Miami win while Son's LAFC beat New England

Kishane Thompson eclipsed Olympic 100m champion Noah Lyles at the Silesia Diamond League meet on Saturday and Keely Hodgkinson made an impressive comeback over 800m a year since winning gold at the Paris Games. A host of world and Olympic champions headlined by the likes of Karsten Warholm -- with an incredible performance in the 400m hurdles -- Armand 'Mondo' Duplantis, Faith Kipyegon and Femke Bol shone in hot and humid conditions in front of more than 40,000 fans in the Polish city of Chorzow.&nbsp;&nbsp;In their first meeting since Lyles won Olympic gold by just five-thousandths of a second in Paris last year, Thompson made an electric start and led from gun to tape for victory in 9.87sec.&nbsp;"My job is to get the job done," said Thompson. "I enjoyed competition against Noah today... nobody is perfect, but I am working on improving my strengths and improving on my weaknesses.&nbsp;"Paris last year was a big learning factor. I learned it is me against myself."&nbsp;Lyles had to be content with second in 9.90sec as the athletes fine-tune preparations for the September 13-21 world championships in Tokyo.&nbsp;"It makes me really excited for not only today, but also for next week and Tokyo," the American said. "The more I run, the better I am getting. I get more excited each day and it is working. I need to keep competing."&nbsp;There was a timely return for Hodgkinson as the 23-year-old Briton showed no sign of the lingering hamstring problems that had sidelined her for months as she clocked 1min 54.74sec, the fastest in the world this year.&nbsp;"I was just happy to step on the track after more than a year," Hodgkinson said. "I planned to run a fast time because I don't have five races anymore before Tokyo, I only have today and the meeting in Lausanne next week. So it had to be fast and I'm happy that it worked."&nbsp;Kenya's serial world record breaker Kipyegon missed out on the long-standing world record in the women's 3,000m.&nbsp;Six weeks after improving her own world 1,500m record in Eugene, Kipyegon clocked 8:07.04 over the non-Olympic distance, falling just short of the 8:06.11 world record set by China's Wang Junxia in 1993.&nbsp;"I am so happy. I wanted to run a longer distance," Kipyegon said. “It is all about Tokyo now, but Tokyo is a championship race, so anything can happen!”&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 the WION audience.

In their first meeting since Lyles won Olympic gold by just five-thousandths of a second in Paris last year, Thompson made an electric start and led from gun to tape for victory in 9.87sec.

Kishane Thompson eclipsed Olympic 100m champion Noah Lyles at the Silesia Diamond League meet on Saturday and Keely Hodgkinson made an impressive comeback over 800m a year since winning gold at the Paris Games. A host of world and Olympic champions headlined by the likes of Karsten Warholm -- with an incredible performance in the 400m hurdles -- Armand 'Mondo' Duplantis, Faith Kipyegon and Femke Bol shone in hot and humid conditions in front of more than 40,000 fans in the Polish city of Chorzow. In their first meeting since Lyles won Olympic gold by just five-thousandths of a second in Paris last year, Thompson made an electric start and led from gun to tape for victory in 9.87sec. "My job is to get the job done," said Thompson. "I enjoyed competition against Noah today... nobody is perfect, but I am working on improving my strengths and improving on my weaknesses. "Paris last year was a big learning factor. I learned it is me against myself." Lyles had to be content with second in 9.90sec as the athletes fine-tune preparations for the September 13-21 world championships in Tokyo. "It makes me really excited for not only today, but also for next week and Tokyo," the American said. "The more I run, the better I am getting. I get more excited each day and it is working. I need to keep competing." There was a timely return for Hodgkinson as the 23-year-old Briton showed no sign of the lingering hamstring problems that had sidelined her for months as she clocked 1min 54.74sec, the fastest in the world this year. "I was just happy to step on the track after more than a year," Hodgkinson said. "I planned to run a fast time because I don't have five races anymore before Tokyo, I only have today and the meeting in Lausanne next week. So it had to be fast and I'm happy that it worked." Kenya's serial world record breaker Kipyegon missed out on the long-standing world record in the women's 3,000m. Six weeks after improving her own world 1,500m record in Eugene, Kipyegon clocked 8:07.04 over the non-Olympic distance, falling just short of the 8:06.11 world record set by China's Wang Junxia in 1993. "I am so happy. I wanted to run a longer distance," Kipyegon said. “It is all about Tokyo now, but Tokyo is a championship race, so anything can happen!” 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 the WION audience.

In their first meeting since Lyles won Olympic gold by just five-thousandths of a second in Paris last year, Thompson made an electric start and led from gun to tape for victory in 9.87sec.

Kishane Thompson beats Olympic 100m champion Noah Lyles at Silesia Diamond League

The team line-up for the 2026 ICC Under-19 Men’s Cricket World Cup is now confirmed, as the United States (US) takes the last available place after topping the Americas Qualifier in Georgia. The 16 teams that will feature in the tournament are Zimbabwe, Australia, Bangladesh, England, India, Ireland, Pakistan, New Zealand, Sri Lanka, South Africa, West Indies, Tanzania, USA, Afghanistan, Japan and Scotland.&nbsp;<h2>How the top 16 is decided for the 2026 ICC Under-19 Men’s Cricket World Cup</h2>The top 10 teams from the 2024 edition in South Africa, along with hosts Zimbabwe, automatically qualified for the tournament, while the other five teams came through regional qualifying events. Let's have a look at all the winners of the regional qualifiers.<h3>Africa Qualifier - Tanzania</h3>The Tanzania team made an impressive run by staying unbeaten in Division 1. They defeated Namibia in a tense and low-scoring game and also beat Kenya to book their WC ticket. Captain Laksh Bakrania played a key role for the team with both bat and ball, finishing with 208 runs and eight wickets.&nbsp;<h3>Americans Qualifier - USA</h3>The United States team dominated the qualifiers, beginning with a 65-run win against Canada, followed by big wins over Bermuda and Argentina. They sealed qualification for the World Cup with 10 points even before their final game.&nbsp;&nbsp;USA's Amrinder Singh Gill was outstanding with the bat, scoring 199 runs in three innings, while spinners Ansh Rai and Sahir Bhatia both picked up seven wickets.<h3>Asia Qualifier - Afghanistan</h3>Afghanistan and Nepal finished with the same points on the table, but because of the superior net run rate, Afghanistan qualified for the tournament. For Afghanistan, batter Khalid Ahmadzai shone at the top, with 202 runs at an average of 101.&nbsp;<h3>East Asia-Pacific Qualifier - Japan</h3>Japan had a great start to the tournament on their home soil, beating Fiji and Papua New Guinea to secure qualification. Japanese all-rounder Charlie Hara-Hinze won the Player of the Tournament award. Japan will now aim to win their first-ever match at a U19 World Cup, having gone winless last time in 2020.<h3>Europe Qualifier - Scotland</h3>Scotland booked their spot in the 2026 ICC Under-19 Men’s Cricket World Cup after a win against the Netherlands in Dundee. Defending 237, Scotland's bowlers turned the match around with their fine bowling. Finlay Jones (4/41) and Manu Saraswat (3/43) were the main bowlers for them. It will be Scotland’s seventh U-19 World Cup appearance in the last eight editions.

The top 10 teams from the 2024 edition in South Africa and hosts Zimbabwe automatically qualified for the 2026 ICC Under19 Men’s Cricket World Cup.

The team line-up for the 2026 ICC Under-19 Men’s Cricket World Cup is now confirmed, as the United States (US) takes the last available place after topping the Americas Qualifier in Georgia. The 16 teams that will feature in the tournament are Zimbabwe, Australia, Bangladesh, England, India, Ireland, Pakistan, New Zealand, Sri Lanka, South Africa, West Indies, Tanzania, USA, Afghanistan, Japan and Scotland. How the top 16 is decided for the 2026 ICC Under-19 Men’s Cricket World Cup The top 10 teams from the 2024 edition in South Africa, along with hosts Zimbabwe, automatically qualified for the tournament, while the other five teams came through regional qualifying events. Let's have a look at all the winners of the regional qualifiers. Africa Qualifier - Tanzania The Tanzania team made an impressive run by staying unbeaten in Division 1. They defeated Namibia in a tense and low-scoring game and also beat Kenya to book their WC ticket. Captain Laksh Bakrania played a key role for the team with both bat and ball, finishing with 208 runs and eight wickets. Americans Qualifier - USA The United States team dominated the qualifiers, beginning with a 65-run win against Canada, followed by big wins over Bermuda and Argentina. They sealed qualification for the World Cup with 10 points even before their final game. USA's Amrinder Singh Gill was outstanding with the bat, scoring 199 runs in three innings, while spinners Ansh Rai and Sahir Bhatia both picked up seven wickets. Asia Qualifier - Afghanistan Afghanistan and Nepal finished with the same points on the table, but because of the superior net run rate, Afghanistan qualified for the tournament. For Afghanistan, batter Khalid Ahmadzai shone at the top, with 202 runs at an average of 101. East Asia-Pacific Qualifier - Japan Japan had a great start to the tournament on their home soil, beating Fiji and Papua New Guinea to secure qualification. Japanese all-rounder Charlie Hara-Hinze won the Player of the Tournament award. Japan will now aim to win their first-ever match at a U19 World Cup, having gone winless last time in 2020. Europe Qualifier - Scotland Scotland booked their spot in the 2026 ICC Under-19 Men’s Cricket World Cup after a win against the Netherlands in Dundee. Defending 237, Scotland's bowlers turned the match around with their fine bowling. Finlay Jones (4/41) and Manu Saraswat (3/43) were the main bowlers for them. It will be Scotland’s seventh U-19 World Cup appearance in the last eight editions.

The top 10 teams from the 2024 edition in South Africa and hosts Zimbabwe automatically qualified for the 2026 ICC Under-19 Men’s Cricket World Cup.

ICC U19 Men’s World Cup 2026: USA confirm last position, check complete team lineup inside

From Dale Steyn to Pat Cummins, here's a look at the top five players with most days as no.1 Test bowler.

From Dale Steyn to Pat Cummins, here's a look at the top five players with most days as no.1 Test bowler.

From Dale Steyn to Pat Cummins, 5 players with most days as no.1 Test bowler, check who tops list

Richarlison scored twice to give Tottenham manager Thomas Frank a dream home debut with a 3-0 win over Burnley on Saturday (Aug 16), while Sunderland shocked West Ham 3-0 on their return to the Premier League. Frank was seconds away from launching his era in charge with a trophy until a late Paris Saint-Germain revival won the UEFA Super Cup on Wednesday. The former Brentford boss replaced Ange Postecoglou despite the Australian ending Spurs' 17-year trophy drought by lifting the Europa League. However, Postecoglou was undone by a miserable return of six home league wins last season as Tottenham finished just above the relegation zone in 17th.&nbsp;Richarlison made the most of the faith shown in him by Frank as the Brazilian turned in Mohammed Kudus' cross to open the scoring. The pair combined again on the hour in more spectacular fashion as Richarlison's bicycle kick crashed in the Ghanaian's delivery from the right.&nbsp;Brennan Johnson was Tottenham's hero of the Europa League final with the only goal against Manchester United, and he began the new season by racing clear to slot in the third.&nbsp;Burnley racked up 100 points in their Championship promotion campaign last season, &nbsp;but did little to suggest they will buck the trend of sides being relegated straight back to the second tier.&nbsp;For the past two seasons, all three promoted teams have gone down.&nbsp;However, big-spending Sunderland enjoyed a dream return to the top-flight with a second-half demolition of West Ham.&nbsp;Former Arsenal and Bayer Leverkusen midfielder Granit Xhaka is among the pool of new signings attracted to the Stadium of Light. But it was three players key to their promotion back to the Premier League for the first time since 2017 who scored. Eliezer Mayenda's looping header gave the Black Cats lift off on the hour mark. Centre-back Dan Ballard headed in the second before Wilson Isidor rounded off a huge win in stoppage time.<h3>Newcastle miss Isak&nbsp;</h3>&nbsp;Newcastle missed the unsettled Alexander Isak as they failed to find the breakthrough against 10-man Aston Villa in a 0-0 draw at Villa Park. The Magpies were the dominant side even before Ezri Konsa's red card for bringing down Antony Gordon 24 minutes from time. Isak had not been involved during Newcastle's pre-season as he appears determined to force through a move to Liverpool, who reportedly saw a £110 million ($149 million) offer for the Swedish striker rejected.&nbsp;The two clubs face off in their next league match at St. James' Park on August 25.&nbsp;Newcastle manager Eddie Howe said he wants an end to the saga one way or another.&nbsp;"From my perspective, you want a resolution quickly. It's taking away the focus of the players and the supporters," said Howe “We want to be united together. We'd like a resolution, but we're not in control of that.”&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 the WION audience.

Richarlison made the most of the faith shown in him by Frank as the Brazilian turned in Mohammed Kudus' cross to open the scoring.

Richarlison scored twice to give Tottenham manager Thomas Frank a dream home debut with a 3-0 win over Burnley on Saturday (Aug 16), while Sunderland shocked West Ham 3-0 on their return to the Premier League. Frank was seconds away from launching his era in charge with a trophy until a late Paris Saint-Germain revival won the UEFA Super Cup on Wednesday. The former Brentford boss replaced Ange Postecoglou despite the Australian ending Spurs' 17-year trophy drought by lifting the Europa League. However, Postecoglou was undone by a miserable return of six home league wins last season as Tottenham finished just above the relegation zone in 17th. Richarlison made the most of the faith shown in him by Frank as the Brazilian turned in Mohammed Kudus' cross to open the scoring. The pair combined again on the hour in more spectacular fashion as Richarlison's bicycle kick crashed in the Ghanaian's delivery from the right. Brennan Johnson was Tottenham's hero of the Europa League final with the only goal against Manchester United, and he began the new season by racing clear to slot in the third. Burnley racked up 100 points in their Championship promotion campaign last season, but did little to suggest they will buck the trend of sides being relegated straight back to the second tier. For the past two seasons, all three promoted teams have gone down. However, big-spending Sunderland enjoyed a dream return to the top-flight with a second-half demolition of West Ham. Former Arsenal and Bayer Leverkusen midfielder Granit Xhaka is among the pool of new signings attracted to the Stadium of Light. But it was three players key to their promotion back to the Premier League for the first time since 2017 who scored. Eliezer Mayenda's looping header gave the Black Cats lift off on the hour mark. Centre-back Dan Ballard headed in the second before Wilson Isidor rounded off a huge win in stoppage time. Newcastle miss Isak Newcastle missed the unsettled Alexander Isak as they failed to find the breakthrough against 10-man Aston Villa in a 0-0 draw at Villa Park. The Magpies were the dominant side even before Ezri Konsa's red card for bringing down Antony Gordon 24 minutes from time. Isak had not been involved during Newcastle's pre-season as he appears determined to force through a move to Liverpool, who reportedly saw a £110 million ($149 million) offer for the Swedish striker rejected. The two clubs face off in their next league match at St. James' Park on August 25. Newcastle manager Eddie Howe said he wants an end to the saga one way or another. "From my perspective, you want a resolution quickly. It's taking away the focus of the players and the supporters," said Howe “We want to be united together. We'd like a resolution, but we're not in control of that.” 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 the WION audience.

Richarlison made the most of the faith shown in him by Frank as the Brazilian turned in Mohammed Kudus' cross to open the scoring.

Richarlison rewinds clock to see Spurs through in their PL opener; Sunderland win on return

Cricket broadcaster Sanjay Manjrekar is known for making bold statements, and this time was no different. Lately, he has made some remarks on why Jasprit Bumrah should not be Team India’s frontline seamer, also suggesting how he, and not Indian cricket, must be the one adjusting. Meanwhile, Bumrah was part of the recently concluded England Tests, featuring in just three of the five matches, as also earlier suggested by the NCA and team doctors, considering his persistent back injuries over the years. While India did not win any match that he featured in, the pace attack fared well in his absence, helping India come from behind and square the Anderson-Tendulkar Trophy (2-2).&nbsp;Manjrekar, who called out the games from the commentary box, shared his opinion in his column for Hindustan Times (HT), suggesting that the selectors must now take some harsh calls to safeguard players’ careers and, more importantly, Indian cricket.&nbsp;Also read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/india-t20i-captain-suryakumar-yadav-clears-fitness-test-ahead-of-asia-cup-squad-selection-1755358373766">India T20I captain Suryakumar Yadav clears fitness test ahead of Asia Cup squad selection</a> &nbsp;"The game will always show us the mirror, however much we try and gloss over things. It was poetic justice that the two Tests India won were two matches Bumrah did not play,” Manjrekar wrote. "This should embolden the Indian selectors to make some hard choices when it comes to big-name players. This series has been a great lesson to them and to us too, the two Test victories India achieved did not feature Virat (Kohli), (Cheteshwar) Pujara, Rohit (Sharma), (Mohammed) Shami and Bumrah too! It reminded us of the eternal truth of sport and life, no one, however great, is indispensable. And this is how India must handle Bumrah," he added in his column for HT.&nbsp;The former India and Mumbai batter also wrote that if Bumrah cannot play two games in a row or even more on the upcoming tours, he must not be leading the pace attack.&nbsp; &nbsp;"If he cannot play more than two matches in a row or sometimes even more than one, he must not be your frontline pick. Players who are match fit, eager, keen to play and perform should be picked any day for me over a highly skilled player. It will motivate such enthusiastic players even more. This is not an idealistic position to take, but it’s the right one for the long-term health of a team sport," Manjrekar continued.<h3>‘He must adjust to Indian Cricket’ &nbsp;</h3>However, he dropped his boldest remark on Bumrah, saying no one is bigger than the game, and that he should be the one adjusting to how Indian Cricket operates and not the other way around. He also suggested that longevity and durability are imperative for Jasprit, and given his status, he must be 100% fit and ready to deliver for his team whenever they need him. &nbsp;"As for Bumrah, of whom I am a fan, if he really wants to serve Indian Test cricket, longevity and durability is an imperative for him, it’s after all, the true test of a great athlete is to still turn up when not 100% fit and deliver." &nbsp;"Indian cricket must not adjust for Bumrah, Bumrah must. That is, if he wants to. By making some tough choices or working even harder on his fitness, this fitness bar can be raised to whatever levels one wants, like all fast bowling greats have done before him," Manjrekar added.

Manjrekar suggests that the selectors must now take some harsh calls to safeguard players’ careers and, more importantly, Indian cricket.

Cricket broadcaster Sanjay Manjrekar is known for making bold statements, and this time was no different. Lately, he has made some remarks on why Jasprit Bumrah should not be Team India’s frontline seamer, also suggesting how he, and not Indian cricket, must be the one adjusting. Meanwhile, Bumrah was part of the recently concluded England Tests, featuring in just three of the five matches, as also earlier suggested by the NCA and team doctors, considering his persistent back injuries over the years. While India did not win any match that he featured in, the pace attack fared well in his absence, helping India come from behind and square the Anderson-Tendulkar Trophy (2-2). Manjrekar, who called out the games from the commentary box, shared his opinion in his column for Hindustan Times (HT), suggesting that the selectors must now take some harsh calls to safeguard players’ careers and, more importantly, Indian cricket. Also read | India T20I captain Suryakumar Yadav clears fitness test ahead of Asia Cup squad selection "The game will always show us the mirror, however much we try and gloss over things. It was poetic justice that the two Tests India won were two matches Bumrah did not play,” Manjrekar wrote. "This should embolden the Indian selectors to make some hard choices when it comes to big-name players. This series has been a great lesson to them and to us too, the two Test victories India achieved did not feature Virat (Kohli), (Cheteshwar) Pujara, Rohit (Sharma), (Mohammed) Shami and Bumrah too! It reminded us of the eternal truth of sport and life, no one, however great, is indispensable. And this is how India must handle Bumrah," he added in his column for HT. The former India and Mumbai batter also wrote that if Bumrah cannot play two games in a row or even more on the upcoming tours, he must not be leading the pace attack. "If he cannot play more than two matches in a row or sometimes even more than one, he must not be your frontline pick. Players who are match fit, eager, keen to play and perform should be picked any day for me over a highly skilled player. It will motivate such enthusiastic players even more. This is not an idealistic position to take, but it’s the right one for the long-term health of a team sport," Manjrekar continued. ‘He must adjust to Indian Cricket’ However, he dropped his boldest remark on Bumrah, saying no one is bigger than the game, and that he should be the one adjusting to how Indian Cricket operates and not the other way around. He also suggested that longevity and durability are imperative for Jasprit, and given his status, he must be 100% fit and ready to deliver for his team whenever they need him. "As for Bumrah, of whom I am a fan, if he really wants to serve Indian Test cricket, longevity and durability is an imperative for him, it’s after all, the true test of a great athlete is to still turn up when not 100% fit and deliver." "Indian cricket must not adjust for Bumrah, Bumrah must. That is, if he wants to. By making some tough choices or working even harder on his fitness, this fitness bar can be raised to whatever levels one wants, like all fast bowling greats have done before him," Manjrekar added.

Manjrekar suggests that the selectors must now take some harsh calls to safeguard players’ careers and, more importantly, Indian cricket.

‘Indian cricket must not adjust for Bumrah…’ Sanjay Manjrekar’s BOLD claim on Team India’s frontline quick

In a massive boost to India’s quest for another T20 World Cup crown, which begins with the 2025 Asia Cup starting September 9 (in the UAE), team captain Suryakumar Yadav has cleared the fitness test at the Centre of Excellence (CoE) in Bengaluru ahead of the squad selection for the continental tournament. SKY, as the fans and broadcasters fondly call him, had undergone surgery for a lower-right abdomen hernia in Munich, Germany, in June this year. A source close to the information revealed that Suryakumar is available to lead India in the eight-team tournament and will join the selection meeting in Mumbai early next week.&nbsp;“He has cleared his fitness and will be available to captain the Indian team during the Asia Cup. He was at the CoE till a few days ago, where he underwent a rehab programme and has now been declared fit. He will be attending the Indian team selection meeting,” a BCCI source confirmed, as quoted by the Indian Express.&nbsp;Also read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/bcci-does-the-unthinkable-introduces-like-for-like-replacement-rule-in-case-of-serious-injury-during-game-1755350227768">BCCI does the unthinkable, introduces ‘like-for-like replacement’ rule in case of ‘serious injury’ during game</a> &nbsp;SKY had earlier flown to the UK to consult a specialist in sports hernia after his IPL 2025 and Mumbai T20 League stints. Even last year, Surya underwent surgery for a sports hernia in the lower-right abdomen. &nbsp;Meanwhile, the UAE will host the tournament, which concludes on September 28, with Abu Dhabi and Dubai hosting all matches. India is placed in Group A, alongside arch-rivals Pakistan, with the hosts (UAE) and Oman the remaining teams, whereas Sri Lanka, Afghanistan, Bangladesh and Hong Kong comprise Group B.&nbsp; &nbsp;The Men in Blue open their campaign against the UAE on September 9 before facing Pakistan in the first of their several expected face-offs five days later on Sunday (Sep 14) in Dubai. India’s final group match is against Oman on September 19.&nbsp; &nbsp;Also, should India and Pakistan top Group A, they will again feature in a marquee clash on September 21 in the next round, and should both make it to the finale, which hasn’t happened before, they will meet for the third time in the same tournament.&nbsp;This edition will be played in the T20 format.&nbsp;

A source close to the information revealed that Suryakumar is available to lead India in the eight-team tournament and will join the selection meeting in Mumbai early next week.

In a massive boost to India’s quest for another T20 World Cup crown, which begins with the 2025 Asia Cup starting September 9 (in the UAE), team captain Suryakumar Yadav has cleared the fitness test at the Centre of Excellence (CoE) in Bengaluru ahead of the squad selection for the continental tournament. SKY, as the fans and broadcasters fondly call him, had undergone surgery for a lower-right abdomen hernia in Munich, Germany, in June this year. A source close to the information revealed that Suryakumar is available to lead India in the eight-team tournament and will join the selection meeting in Mumbai early next week. “He has cleared his fitness and will be available to captain the Indian team during the Asia Cup. He was at the CoE till a few days ago, where he underwent a rehab programme and has now been declared fit. He will be attending the Indian team selection meeting,” a BCCI source confirmed, as quoted by the Indian Express. Also read | BCCI does the unthinkable, introduces ‘like-for-like replacement’ rule in case of ‘serious injury’ during game SKY had earlier flown to the UK to consult a specialist in sports hernia after his IPL 2025 and Mumbai T20 League stints. Even last year, Surya underwent surgery for a sports hernia in the lower-right abdomen. Meanwhile, the UAE will host the tournament, which concludes on September 28, with Abu Dhabi and Dubai hosting all matches. India is placed in Group A, alongside arch-rivals Pakistan, with the hosts (UAE) and Oman the remaining teams, whereas Sri Lanka, Afghanistan, Bangladesh and Hong Kong comprise Group B. The Men in Blue open their campaign against the UAE on September 9 before facing Pakistan in the first of their several expected face-offs five days later on Sunday (Sep 14) in Dubai. India’s final group match is against Oman on September 19. Also, should India and Pakistan top Group A, they will again feature in a marquee clash on September 21 in the next round, and should both make it to the finale, which hasn’t happened before, they will meet for the third time in the same tournament. This edition will be played in the T20 format.

A source close to the information revealed that Suryakumar is available to lead India in the eight-team tournament and will join the selection meeting in Mumbai early next week.

India T20I captain Suryakumar Yadav clears fitness test ahead of Asia Cup squad selection

Glenn Maxwell took a brilliant catch before smashing a half-century under pressure to help Australia overcome a dogged South Africa by two wickets and seal the three-match Twenty20 series in Cairns on Saturday (Aug 16). In response to South Africa's 172-7, Australia were in trouble at 122-6 in the 14th over before Maxwell stepped up with an unbeaten 62 off 36 balls. There was a late twist when South Africa quick Corbin Bosch dismissed Ben Dwarshuis and Nathan Ellis with consecutive deliveries. But Maxwell crunched a boundary on the penultimate ball of the match before celebrating with gusto.&nbsp;Hot favourites Australia won the first match but were stunned by a 52-run defeat in game two before moving to Cairns in northern Queensland, which hosted its first T20 international.&nbsp;Also read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/bcci-does-the-unthinkable-introduces-like-for-like-replacement-rule-in-case-of-serious-injury-during-game-1755350227768">BCCI does the unthinkable, introduces ‘like-for-like replacement’ rule in case of ‘serious injury’ during game</a>&nbsp;"It was a little nerve-racking," Maxwell said. “I tried to stay on strike as much as I could and cash in on anything loose.”&nbsp;Australia captain Mitchell Marsh elected to field in helpful conditions for seam bowlers, a contrast to the batting-friendly surfaces used in the opening two games in Darwin. Veteran quick Josh Hazlewood rebounded from an errant performance in game two by dismissing captain Aiden Markram for one in the first over.&nbsp;Lhuan-dre Pretorius hit a quick-fire 24 before falling to Ellis, bringing to the crease Dewald Brevis, who smashed a South African T20 record of 125 not out in game two. He crunched his sixth delivery onto the roof before a diving Maxwell dropped a tough one-handed chance at long-on.Brevis motored to his half-century off 22 balls.&nbsp;Maxwell, a brilliant fielder, redeemed himself in the 12th over with a superb diving catch in the outfield to halt Brevis' charge on 53.&nbsp;South Africa's innings ran out of steam, and their total appeared well short when Marsh dominated a 66-run opening partnership with Travis Head. But South Africa hit back with the quick wickets of Head (19) and Josh Inglis for a first-ball duck.&nbsp;Marsh made 54 before holing out to 19-year-old quick Kwena Maphaka, who later in the 11th over dismissed Cameron Green (nine). Australia's collapse of 6-56 was complete when in-form Tim David (17) and Aaron Hardie (one) were dismissed before Maxwell took over. The Australian players wore black armbands in honour of former captain and coach Bob Simpson, who died at the age of 89.&nbsp;The three-match One-Day International series between the teams starts in Cairns on Tuesday (Aug 19).&nbsp;&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 the WION audience.

There was a late twist when South Africa quick Corbin Bosch dismissed Ben Dwarshuis and Nathan Ellis with consecutive deliveries. But Maxwell crunched a boundary on the penultimate ball of the match before celebrating with gusto.

Glenn Maxwell took a brilliant catch before smashing a half-century under pressure to help Australia overcome a dogged South Africa by two wickets and seal the three-match Twenty20 series in Cairns on Saturday (Aug 16). In response to South Africa's 172-7, Australia were in trouble at 122-6 in the 14th over before Maxwell stepped up with an unbeaten 62 off 36 balls. There was a late twist when South Africa quick Corbin Bosch dismissed Ben Dwarshuis and Nathan Ellis with consecutive deliveries. But Maxwell crunched a boundary on the penultimate ball of the match before celebrating with gusto. Hot favourites Australia won the first match but were stunned by a 52-run defeat in game two before moving to Cairns in northern Queensland, which hosted its first T20 international. Also read | BCCI does the unthinkable, introduces ‘like-for-like replacement’ rule in case of ‘serious injury’ during game "It was a little nerve-racking," Maxwell said. “I tried to stay on strike as much as I could and cash in on anything loose.” Australia captain Mitchell Marsh elected to field in helpful conditions for seam bowlers, a contrast to the batting-friendly surfaces used in the opening two games in Darwin. Veteran quick Josh Hazlewood rebounded from an errant performance in game two by dismissing captain Aiden Markram for one in the first over. Lhuan-dre Pretorius hit a quick-fire 24 before falling to Ellis, bringing to the crease Dewald Brevis, who smashed a South African T20 record of 125 not out in game two. He crunched his sixth delivery onto the roof before a diving Maxwell dropped a tough one-handed chance at long-on. Brevis motored to his half-century off 22 balls. Maxwell, a brilliant fielder, redeemed himself in the 12th over with a superb diving catch in the outfield to halt Brevis' charge on 53. South Africa's innings ran out of steam, and their total appeared well short when Marsh dominated a 66-run opening partnership with Travis Head. But South Africa hit back with the quick wickets of Head (19) and Josh Inglis for a first-ball duck. Marsh made 54 before holing out to 19-year-old quick Kwena Maphaka, who later in the 11th over dismissed Cameron Green (nine). Australia's collapse of 6-56 was complete when in-form Tim David (17) and Aaron Hardie (one) were dismissed before Maxwell took over. The Australian players wore black armbands in honour of former captain and coach Bob Simpson, who died at the age of 89. The three-match One-Day International series between the teams starts in Cairns on Tuesday (Aug 19). 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 the WION audience.

There was a late twist when South Africa quick Corbin Bosch dismissed Ben Dwarshuis and Nathan Ellis with consecutive deliveries. But Maxwell crunched a boundary on the penultimate ball of the match before celebrating with gusto.

‘Big Show’ Maxwell steps up for Australia to win T20I series against South Africa

From Lasith Malinga to Shakib-Al-Hasan, here's a look at the top five bowlers with most wickets in Asia Cup (T20Is+ODIs).

From Lasith Malinga to Shakib-Al-Hasan, here's a look at the top five bowlers with most wickets in Asia Cup (T20Is+ODIs).

From Lasith Malinga to Shakib-Al-Hasan, 5 bowlers with most Asia Cup wickets (T20Is+ODIs), one Indian on list

The Indian Cricket Board has done the unthinkable. Weeks after India and England lost Rishabh Pant and Chris Woakes, respectively, to injuries during the recently concluded Anderson-Tendulkar Trophy, the BCCI has amended the playing conditions, allowing like-for-like injury replacements for serious injury in multi-day cricket for the forthcoming domestic season. In a major boost to the injury replacements in cricket, the introduction of such a rule could now see those ‘suffering any serious injury’ anytime during a game's duration get replaced by someone with similar attributes.&nbsp;"If a player sustains a serious injury during the course of the relevant match, a Serious Injury Replacement may be permitted in the following circumstances," the newly-introduced rule in the Playing Conditions states. "The serious injury must have been sustained during play and within the playing area described in the clause."&nbsp;Also read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/ipl-2025-csk-issues-official-statement-on-dewald-brevis-mid-season-signing-after-ashwin-remarks-1755345173247">IPL: CSK issues official statement on Dewald Brevis’ mid-season signing after Ashwin’s remarks</a> &nbsp;This supposed rule change led to contrasting opinions from both Indian and English camps during the Oval Test. While Ben Stokes, the English captain, slammed the rule (of bringing in an injury replacement during a game), calling it ridiculous, Team India's head coach Gautam Gambhir welcomed the move.&nbsp; &nbsp;It all began when India lost Rishabh Pant during the fourth Test in Manchester and England lost Woakes during the final Test, with both teams playing a batter short across two games. Even though Pant batted with a broken foot in the second innings at Old Trafford, also scoring a gritty fifty, Woakes made headlines when he walked out with a dislocated shoulder during the final day of the fifth match. &nbsp;"Absolutely, I'm all for it," Gambhir said of Pant's injury during the fourth Test in Manchester. "If the umpires and the match referee see and feel that is a major injury, I think it's very important. It's very important to have this rule where you can get a substitute - that is, if it's very visible. There's nothing wrong in doing that, especially in a series like this where it's been such a closely-fought series in the previous three Test matches. Imagine if we would've had to play with 10 men against 11. How unfortunate would this be for us?" &nbsp;Stokes, on the other hand, discarded the whole idea, saying, "It's absolutely ridiculous that there's a conversation around an injury replacement," the England captain said. "There would just be too many loopholes for teams to be able to go through. You pick your eleven for a game; injuries are part of the game. I completely understand the concussion replacement, player welfare, and player safety. But I think the conversation should just honestly stop around injury replacements because if you stick me in an MRI scanner, I could get someone else in straightaway.” &nbsp;Meanwhile, the Indian Board introduced the rule in the Playing Conditions (2025/26 season) in the multi-day cricket under a new header ‘Serious Injury Replacement’, which states that a like-for-like replacement, almost similar to concussion replacement rules, will now be allowed.

India and England lost their premier players to ‘serious injuries’ during the recently concluded Anderson-Tendulkar Trophy.

The Indian Cricket Board has done the unthinkable. Weeks after India and England lost Rishabh Pant and Chris Woakes, respectively, to injuries during the recently concluded Anderson-Tendulkar Trophy, the BCCI has amended the playing conditions, allowing like-for-like injury replacements for serious injury in multi-day cricket for the forthcoming domestic season. In a major boost to the injury replacements in cricket, the introduction of such a rule could now see those ‘suffering any serious injury’ anytime during a game's duration get replaced by someone with similar attributes. "If a player sustains a serious injury during the course of the relevant match, a Serious Injury Replacement may be permitted in the following circumstances," the newly-introduced rule in the Playing Conditions states. "The serious injury must have been sustained during play and within the playing area described in the clause." Also read | IPL: CSK issues official statement on Dewald Brevis’ mid-season signing after Ashwin’s remarks This supposed rule change led to contrasting opinions from both Indian and English camps during the Oval Test. While Ben Stokes, the English captain, slammed the rule (of bringing in an injury replacement during a game), calling it ridiculous, Team India's head coach Gautam Gambhir welcomed the move. It all began when India lost Rishabh Pant during the fourth Test in Manchester and England lost Woakes during the final Test, with both teams playing a batter short across two games. Even though Pant batted with a broken foot in the second innings at Old Trafford, also scoring a gritty fifty, Woakes made headlines when he walked out with a dislocated shoulder during the final day of the fifth match. "Absolutely, I'm all for it," Gambhir said of Pant's injury during the fourth Test in Manchester. "If the umpires and the match referee see and feel that is a major injury, I think it's very important. It's very important to have this rule where you can get a substitute - that is, if it's very visible. There's nothing wrong in doing that, especially in a series like this where it's been such a closely-fought series in the previous three Test matches. Imagine if we would've had to play with 10 men against 11. How unfortunate would this be for us?" Stokes, on the other hand, discarded the whole idea, saying, "It's absolutely ridiculous that there's a conversation around an injury replacement," the England captain said. "There would just be too many loopholes for teams to be able to go through. You pick your eleven for a game; injuries are part of the game. I completely understand the concussion replacement, player welfare, and player safety. But I think the conversation should just honestly stop around injury replacements because if you stick me in an MRI scanner, I could get someone else in straightaway.” Meanwhile, the Indian Board introduced the rule in the Playing Conditions (2025/26 season) in the multi-day cricket under a new header ‘Serious Injury Replacement’, which states that a like-for-like replacement, almost similar to concussion replacement rules, will now be allowed.

India and England lost their premier players to ‘serious injuries’ during the recently concluded Anderson-Tendulkar Trophy.

BCCI does the unthinkable, introduces ‘like-for-like replacement’ rule in case of ‘serious injury’ during game

Dewald Brevis has been in the news lately. Be it for his batting exploits in the ongoing T20I series against Australia or the rumours around his new IPL franchise, Chennai Super Kings (CSK), offering more money to sign him as a mid-season injury replacement for their India seamer Gurjapneet Singh. Days after another CSK player and former India spinner Ravichandran Ashwin, while speaking on his YouTube channel, suggested that CSK splurged more than Brevis' eligible price (INR 2.2 crore) to have him on board, the IPL team issued an official statement, quashing all such rumours.&nbsp;"Dewald Brevis had a great time in the IPL last year after CSK got him in the back half of the season," Ashwin said on his YouTube channel. "I even heard that two-three teams were also talking to him, but they had to let him go after not being able to pay extra money. He had a base price in the auction, but discussions and negotiations would have happened with his agent, that 'I'll join the team only for a certain sum of money'. &nbsp;“His (Brevis’) concept would have been that 'If I play this season, my value (for the next auction) will go higher'. So he might have told CSK, 'I'll need the extra money.' And the team was willing to pay him extra, which is why he came in,” Ashwin continued.&nbsp;Also read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/aus-vs-sa-2025-dewald-brevis-turns-back-clock-with-three-no-look-sixes-in-3rd-t20i-watch-video-1755342431561">AUS vs SA: Dewald Brevis turns back clock with three ‘no-look’ sixes in 3rd T20I – WATCH</a> &nbsp;Meanwhile, CSK issued clarification on the matter saying Brevis was signed in full accordance with the IPL Player Regulations 2025-27, specifically clause 6.6 under ‘Replacement Players’, which reads, “A replacement Player signed pursuant to either paragraph 6.1 or 6.2 can be recruited at a League Fee which shall not be more than the League Fee that would have been payable to the injured/unavailable Player for the relevant Season.&nbsp; &nbsp;“If a Replacement Player is recruited during a Season, the League Fee actually paid to him will be reduced to take account of the Franchisee’s matches during the relevant Season which took place before he was registered and any other relevant deductions under the Player Contract,” the statement read.&nbsp; &nbsp;While CSK bought Gurjapneet for INR 2.2 crore at the Jeddah auction in November last year, Dewald went unsold across the two-night affair in Saudi Arabia; as it turns out, the lanky left-arm seamer didn’t play a single game, but the South African featured (for CSK) in six matches, scoring 225 runs, including two fifties.&nbsp;

Chennai Super Kings (CSK) roped in Brevis as Gurjapneet's replacement midway through IPL 2025 for the same price as that of the Indian pacer. 

Dewald Brevis has been in the news lately. Be it for his batting exploits in the ongoing T20I series against Australia or the rumours around his new IPL franchise, Chennai Super Kings (CSK), offering more money to sign him as a mid-season injury replacement for their India seamer Gurjapneet Singh. Days after another CSK player and former India spinner Ravichandran Ashwin, while speaking on his YouTube channel, suggested that CSK splurged more than Brevis' eligible price (INR 2.2 crore) to have him on board, the IPL team issued an official statement, quashing all such rumours. "Dewald Brevis had a great time in the IPL last year after CSK got him in the back half of the season," Ashwin said on his YouTube channel. "I even heard that two-three teams were also talking to him, but they had to let him go after not being able to pay extra money. He had a base price in the auction, but discussions and negotiations would have happened with his agent, that 'I'll join the team only for a certain sum of money'. “His (Brevis’) concept would have been that 'If I play this season, my value (for the next auction) will go higher'. So he might have told CSK, 'I'll need the extra money.' And the team was willing to pay him extra, which is why he came in,” Ashwin continued. Also read | AUS vs SA: Dewald Brevis turns back clock with three ‘no-look’ sixes in 3rd T20I – WATCH Meanwhile, CSK issued clarification on the matter saying Brevis was signed in full accordance with the IPL Player Regulations 2025-27, specifically clause 6.6 under ‘Replacement Players’, which reads, “A replacement Player signed pursuant to either paragraph 6.1 or 6.2 can be recruited at a League Fee which shall not be more than the League Fee that would have been payable to the injured/unavailable Player for the relevant Season. “If a Replacement Player is recruited during a Season, the League Fee actually paid to him will be reduced to take account of the Franchisee’s matches during the relevant Season which took place before he was registered and any other relevant deductions under the Player Contract,” the statement read. While CSK bought Gurjapneet for INR 2.2 crore at the Jeddah auction in November last year, Dewald went unsold across the two-night affair in Saudi Arabia; as it turns out, the lanky left-arm seamer didn’t play a single game, but the South African featured (for CSK) in six matches, scoring 225 runs, including two fifties.

Chennai Super Kings (CSK) roped in Brevis as Gurjapneet's replacement midway through IPL 2025 for the same price as that of the Indian pacer.&nbsp;

IPL: CSK issues official statement on Dewald Brevis’ mid-season signing after Ashwin’s remarks

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