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Devdutt Padikkal’s impressive 167 was the highlight as India reached 460 for nine at stumps on a rain-hit second day of the first Test against Sri Lanka in Galle on Sunday (Aug 16). Sri Lanka’s spinners, however, fought back strongly after a long delay caused by rain. Earlier, India resumed at 288 for two and added 172 runs during the day, but lost seven wickets as Sri Lanka’s bowlers improved their accuracy and found more help from the pitch. Kuldeep Yadav was unbeaten on 12, while Prasidh Krishna was on one at the stumps.&nbsp;Rain and a wet outfield delayed the start until 2:35pm. The break appeared to help Sri Lanka, as their bowlers returned with better control and gave India’s batters fewer scoring chances while making good use of turn and bounce.&nbsp;Padikkal, who was 131 overnight, completed his maiden Test 150 from 215 balls by pulling Asitha Fernando for a boundary. India, however, lost Rishabh Pant for 39, when he tried to attack off-spinner Keshara Nuwantha but mistimed his shot, allowing Sonal Dinusha to take a running catch.&nbsp;KL Rahul, who had retired hurt on 77 on the opening day due to cramps, returned to the crease but scored only four more runs. Nuwantha got extra turn and bounce to force an edge, with Nishan Madhushka taking the catch at short leg.&nbsp;Also Read - <a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/rahmat-shah-breaks-record-for-highest-odi-score-by-afghanistan-captain-1786879415016">Rahmat Shah breaks record for highest ODI score by Afghanistan captain</a>&nbsp;Sri Lanka then removed Padikkal just before tea. Prabath Jayasuriya deceived the left-hander with flight, and wicketkeeper Niroshan Dickwella completed the stumping.&nbsp;India were 364 for five at tea, but Ravindra Jadeja was dismissed soon after the break, trapped lbw by Nuwantha to leave India at 377 for six.&nbsp;Dhruv Jurel then played an attacking knock after struggling for runs in recent matches. He was given a lifeline on 29 when Sri Lankan captain Dhananjaya de Silva dropped a thick edge off Jayasuriya at first slip. Jurel made the most of the opportunity, scoring his first half-century in eight innings.&nbsp;Also Read - <a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/wtc-points-table-after-aus-vs-ban-1st-test-aussies-retain-top-spot-bangladesh-fourth-1786875174769">WTC points table 2025-27: Australia retain top spot, Bangladesh fourth</a>&nbsp;He hit Nuwantha for a six over mid-wicket and pulled Lahiru Kumara for four before being dismissed for 57. De Silva made up for his earlier mistake by taking a sharp catch at slip off Jayasuriya.&nbsp;Jurel and Manav Suthar added 55 runs for the seventh wicket. Suthar scored a useful 24, while he and Mohammad Siraj helped India add valuable runs towards the end of the innings.&nbsp;Sri Lanka’s two main fast bowlers, Lahiru Kumara and Asitha Fernando, struggled to make much of an impact.&nbsp;&nbsp;While, captain Shubman Gill had earlier stressed the need for the lower order to contribute with the bat, and India managed to do exactly that despite losing wickets late in the day.&nbsp;&nbsp;With inputs from agencies

Devdutt Padikkal’s 167 helped India reach 460/9 as Sri Lanka’s spinners hit back on a rain-affected second day of the Galle Test.

Devdutt Padikkal’s impressive 167 was the highlight as India reached 460 for nine at stumps on a rain-hit second day of the first Test against Sri Lanka in Galle on Sunday (Aug 16). Sri Lanka’s spinners, however, fought back strongly after a long delay caused by rain. Earlier, India resumed at 288 for two and added 172 runs during the day, but lost seven wickets as Sri Lanka’s bowlers improved their accuracy and found more help from the pitch. Kuldeep Yadav was unbeaten on 12, while Prasidh Krishna was on one at the stumps. Rain and a wet outfield delayed the start until 2:35pm. The break appeared to help Sri Lanka, as their bowlers returned with better control and gave India’s batters fewer scoring chances while making good use of turn and bounce. Padikkal, who was 131 overnight, completed his maiden Test 150 from 215 balls by pulling Asitha Fernando for a boundary. India, however, lost Rishabh Pant for 39, when he tried to attack off-spinner Keshara Nuwantha but mistimed his shot, allowing Sonal Dinusha to take a running catch. KL Rahul, who had retired hurt on 77 on the opening day due to cramps, returned to the crease but scored only four more runs. Nuwantha got extra turn and bounce to force an edge, with Nishan Madhushka taking the catch at short leg. Also Read - Rahmat Shah breaks record for highest ODI score by Afghanistan captain Sri Lanka then removed Padikkal just before tea. Prabath Jayasuriya deceived the left-hander with flight, and wicketkeeper Niroshan Dickwella completed the stumping. India were 364 for five at tea, but Ravindra Jadeja was dismissed soon after the break, trapped lbw by Nuwantha to leave India at 377 for six. Dhruv Jurel then played an attacking knock after struggling for runs in recent matches. He was given a lifeline on 29 when Sri Lankan captain Dhananjaya de Silva dropped a thick edge off Jayasuriya at first slip. Jurel made the most of the opportunity, scoring his first half-century in eight innings. Also Read - WTC points table 2025-27: Australia retain top spot, Bangladesh fourth He hit Nuwantha for a six over mid-wicket and pulled Lahiru Kumara for four before being dismissed for 57. De Silva made up for his earlier mistake by taking a sharp catch at slip off Jayasuriya. Jurel and Manav Suthar added 55 runs for the seventh wicket. Suthar scored a useful 24, while he and Mohammad Siraj helped India add valuable runs towards the end of the innings. Sri Lanka’s two main fast bowlers, Lahiru Kumara and Asitha Fernando, struggled to make much of an impact. While, captain Shubman Gill had earlier stressed the need for the lower order to contribute with the bat, and India managed to do exactly that despite losing wickets late in the day. With inputs from agencies

Devdutt Padikkal’s 167 helped India reach 460/9 as Sri Lanka’s spinners hit back on a rain-affected second day of the Galle Test.

SL vs IND, 1st Test: Padikkal, Jurel shine as India dominate rain-hit Day 2

Rahmat Shah scored a brilliant unbeaten 143 on Saturday (Aug 15) as Afghanistan chased down 299 in 48.5 overs to beat Ireland by six wickets in the fifth and final ODI in Belfast. Playing at the Civil Service Cricket Club, Rahmat faced 133 balls and hit 13 fours and two sixes. His century also made Rahmat only the third Afghanistan captain, after Asghar Afghan and Shahidi, to score an ODI hundred.&nbsp;&nbsp;He also broke Shahidi’s record for the highest individual score by an Afghanistan captain in ODIs. Shahidi had scored 102 off 131 balls against India in Chennai on 20 Jun, 2026.&nbsp;Only three Afghanistan captains have scored centuries in international cricket across the three formats.&nbsp;However, Afghanistan’s overall highest individual ODI score still belongs to Ibrahim Zadran, when he smashed 177 off 146 balls against Pakistan in the ICC Champions Trophy 2025 in Lahore.&nbsp;Also Read - <a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/cincinnati-open-thiago-tirante-stuns-djokovic-in-second-round-shocker-1786876632885">Cincinnati Open: Thiago Tirante stuns Djokovic in second-round shocker</a>&nbsp;During the chase, Rahmat shared a massive 201-run partnership with Sediqullah Atal for the third wicket. Atal scored 98 from 112 balls and narrowly missed out on a second consecutive century after scoring a hundred in the fourth ODI. He was dismissed by Liam McCarthy off the third ball of the 41st over.&nbsp;Also Read - <a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/wtc-points-table-after-aus-vs-ban-1st-test-aussies-retain-top-spot-bangladesh-fourth-1786875174769">WTC points table 2025-27: Australia retain top spot, Bangladesh fourth</a>&nbsp;Rahmat then partnered with Azmatullah Omarzai for an unbeaten 56-run stand to guide Afghanistan comfortably over the target.&nbsp;The victory gave Afghanistan a six-wicket win in the series finale and capped a memorable individual performance for their new ODI captain.

Rahmat Shah smashed an unbeaten 143 to help Afghanistan chase down 299 against Ireland and secure a six-wicket win in the fifth ODI.

Rahmat Shah scored a brilliant unbeaten 143 on Saturday (Aug 15) as Afghanistan chased down 299 in 48.5 overs to beat Ireland by six wickets in the fifth and final ODI in Belfast. Playing at the Civil Service Cricket Club, Rahmat faced 133 balls and hit 13 fours and two sixes. His century also made Rahmat only the third Afghanistan captain, after Asghar Afghan and Shahidi, to score an ODI hundred. He also broke Shahidi’s record for the highest individual score by an Afghanistan captain in ODIs. Shahidi had scored 102 off 131 balls against India in Chennai on 20 Jun, 2026. Only three Afghanistan captains have scored centuries in international cricket across the three formats. However, Afghanistan’s overall highest individual ODI score still belongs to Ibrahim Zadran, when he smashed 177 off 146 balls against Pakistan in the ICC Champions Trophy 2025 in Lahore. Also Read - Cincinnati Open: Thiago Tirante stuns Djokovic in second-round shocker During the chase, Rahmat shared a massive 201-run partnership with Sediqullah Atal for the third wicket. Atal scored 98 from 112 balls and narrowly missed out on a second consecutive century after scoring a hundred in the fourth ODI. He was dismissed by Liam McCarthy off the third ball of the 41st over. Also Read - WTC points table 2025-27: Australia retain top spot, Bangladesh fourth Rahmat then partnered with Azmatullah Omarzai for an unbeaten 56-run stand to guide Afghanistan comfortably over the target. The victory gave Afghanistan a six-wicket win in the series finale and capped a memorable individual performance for their new ODI captain.

Rahmat Shah smashed an unbeaten 143 to help Afghanistan chase down 299 against Ireland and secure a six-wicket win in the fifth ODI.

Rahmat Shah breaks record for highest ODI score by Afghanistan captain

From Brian Lara to Don Bradman, here's a look at the top five batters fastest to 3000 runs in Tests. This list also includes Everton Weekes, Marnus Labuschagne and Herbert Sutcliffe

From Brian Lara to Don Bradman, here's a look at the top five batters fastest to 3000 runs in Tests. This list also includes Everton Weekes, Marnus Labuschagne and Herbert Sutcliffe

Meet top 5 batters fastest to 3000 runs in Tests

Thiago Agustin Tirante recorded the biggest win of his career by defeating Serbian legend Novak Djokovic in the second round of the Cincinnati Open on Saturday. The world No. 50 fought back after losing the opening set to beat Djokovic 2-6, 6-4, 6-4 at the hard-court ATP Masters 1000 event. It was Djokovic’s first competitive match since his Wimbledon semi-final defeat to Jannik Sinner in July.&nbsp;During the match, Tirante stayed composed as Djokovic struggled physically and took control in the second set. Although the five-time Grand Slam champion saved 13 of the 15 break points he faced, but Tirante kept pushing and took advantage of Djokovic’s mistakes.&nbsp;Djokovic, a three-time Cincinnati champion, raised his level in the deciding set. However, Tirante earned a crucial break in the ninth game before serving out the match to complete a memorable victory.&nbsp;Also Read - <a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/wtc-points-table-after-aus-vs-ban-1st-test-aussies-retain-top-spot-bangladesh-fourth-1786875174769">WTC points table after AUS vs BAN 1st Test: Aussies retain top spot, Bangladesh fourth</a>&nbsp;“I think this is the best win of my career,” Tirante said, as quoted by an ATP official website.&nbsp;“I think I really did a good job inside the court. I managed very well the nerves of playing against a legend like Novak. Now I feel relieved, because it is all so much pressure when you cannot break serve. I had so many points to break, and I could not, so that was the key, to keep believing in myself with my team and think about it after the match.”&nbsp;“Thinking about my family and my friends that are in Argentina watching me, they are really happy to watch me on TV… They are in Argentina, but they are in my head as well,” he added.&nbsp;Also Read - <a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/2027-odi-world-cup-start-date-october-2-gandhi-jayanti-icc-tribute-1786871634518">ICC planning October 2 start for 2027 World Cup to commemorate Mahatma Gandhi</a>&nbsp;The victory improved Tirante’s record against top-10 players to four wins and one loss. He will next face Martin Landaluce, who defeated 31st seed Matteo Arnaldi 6-4, 4-6, 6-4.&nbsp;“The confidence my team gives me is key. I think we are doing a really good job with my mental coach,” Tirante said.&nbsp;“They are helping me a lot, and I think this has been the key this year, to believe in myself more and listen to my team between the points in the match. So I think I am doing the right things,” he signed off.&nbsp;With inputs from agencies

Novak Djokovic’s US Open preparations suffered a major setback as world No. 50 Thiago Agustin Tirante knocked him out of the Cincinnati Open.

Thiago Agustin Tirante recorded the biggest win of his career by defeating Serbian legend Novak Djokovic in the second round of the Cincinnati Open on Saturday. The world No. 50 fought back after losing the opening set to beat Djokovic 2-6, 6-4, 6-4 at the hard-court ATP Masters 1000 event. It was Djokovic’s first competitive match since his Wimbledon semi-final defeat to Jannik Sinner in July. During the match, Tirante stayed composed as Djokovic struggled physically and took control in the second set. Although the five-time Grand Slam champion saved 13 of the 15 break points he faced, but Tirante kept pushing and took advantage of Djokovic’s mistakes. Djokovic, a three-time Cincinnati champion, raised his level in the deciding set. However, Tirante earned a crucial break in the ninth game before serving out the match to complete a memorable victory. Also Read - WTC points table after AUS vs BAN 1st Test: Aussies retain top spot, Bangladesh fourth “I think this is the best win of my career,” Tirante said, as quoted by an ATP official website. “I think I really did a good job inside the court. I managed very well the nerves of playing against a legend like Novak. Now I feel relieved, because it is all so much pressure when you cannot break serve. I had so many points to break, and I could not, so that was the key, to keep believing in myself with my team and think about it after the match.” “Thinking about my family and my friends that are in Argentina watching me, they are really happy to watch me on TV… They are in Argentina, but they are in my head as well,” he added. Also Read - ICC planning October 2 start for 2027 World Cup to commemorate Mahatma Gandhi The victory improved Tirante’s record against top-10 players to four wins and one loss. He will next face Martin Landaluce, who defeated 31st seed Matteo Arnaldi 6-4, 4-6, 6-4. “The confidence my team gives me is key. I think we are doing a really good job with my mental coach,” Tirante said. “They are helping me a lot, and I think this has been the key this year, to believe in myself more and listen to my team between the points in the match. So I think I am doing the right things,” he signed off. With inputs from agencies

Novak Djokovic’s US Open preparations suffered a major setback as world No. 50 Thiago Agustin Tirante knocked him out of the Cincinnati Open.

Cincinnati Open: Thiago Tirante stuns Djokovic in second-round shocker

Bangladesh made history on Sunday (Aug 16) by beating the Aussies by nine wickets in Darwin for their first Test win on Australian soil and only their second victory over them in the format. Bangladesh took a massive 228-run first-innings lead before dismissing the hosts for 284 in the second innings, leaving them with just 57 runs to chase, which they reached in 14.2 overs for the loss of one wicket.&nbsp;The win also gave Bangladesh a major boost in the World Test Championship (WTC) 2025-27 standings, as their points total has increased to 60, while their points percentage (PCT) has improved from 58.33 to 66.67. Despite this rise, Bangladesh continue to occupy fourth place.&nbsp;Before the historic win in Darwin, Bangladesh had already beaten Pakistan twice at home earlier this year.&nbsp;Australia, despite the defeat, remain at the top of the WTC 2025-27 table, however, their PCT has fallen from 87.50 to 77.77. The 2023 WTC champions have now suffered two defeats in nine Tests during the current cycle, with both losses coming at home.&nbsp;Also Read - <a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/2027-odi-world-cup-start-date-october-2-gandhi-jayanti-icc-tribute-1786871634518">ICC planning October 2 start for 2027 ODI World Cup to commemorate Mahatma Gandhi</a>&nbsp;Meanwhile, India are currently fifth with a PCT of 48.15 and even if Shubman Gill’s team beat Sri Lanka in the first Test in Galle, they will stay fifth. Their PCT, however, will rise to 53.33.&nbsp;Sri Lanka have a chance to move above India with a win in the first Test. A victory in Galle would take their PCT to 53.33 and put them fifth, while India would drop to sixth with 43.33 per cent.&nbsp;Also Read - <a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/cummins-no-excuses-darwin-test-loss-bangladesh-ponting-demands-changes-1786868192172">‘We’re Pretty Good at Bouncing Back’: Cummins confident after Darwin Test loss</a>&nbsp;If the Galle Test ends in a draw, Sri Lanka’s PCT will fall to 40.00 and India’s will drop to 46.66. However, neither team would change their position in the WTC standings.&nbsp;<h2>Updated WTC 2025-27 standings</h2>

<figure class="table"><table><thead><tr><th>Position</th><th>Team</th><th>M</th><th>W</th><th>L</th><th>Draws</th><th>Penalty</th><th>Pts</th><th>PCT%</th></tr></thead><tbody><tr><td>1.</td><td>Australia</td><td>9</td><td>7</td><td>2</td><td>0</td><td>0</td><td>84</td><td>77.77</td></tr><tr><td>2.</td><td>South Africa</td><td>4</td><td>3</td><td>1</td><td>0</td><td>0</td><td>36</td><td>75.00</td></tr><tr><td>3.</td><td>New Zealand</td><td>6</td><td>4</td><td>1</td><td>1</td><td>0</td><td>52</td><td>72.22</td></tr><tr><td>4.</td><td>Bangladesh</td><td>5</td><td>3</td><td>1</td><td>1</td><td>0</td><td>40</td><td>66.67</td></tr><tr><td>5.</td><td>India</td><td>9</td><td>4</td><td>4</td><td>1</td><td>0</td><td>52</td><td>48.15</td></tr><tr><td>6.</td><td>Sri Lanka</td><td>4</td><td>1</td><td>1</td><td>2</td><td>0</td><td>20</td><td>41.67</td></tr><tr><td>7.</td><td>England</td><td>13</td><td>4</td><td>8</td><td>1</td><td>14</td><td>38</td><td>24.36</td></tr><tr><td>8.</td><td>Pakistan</td><td>6</td><td>2</td><td>4</td><td>0</td><td>8</td><td>16</td><td>22.22</td></tr><tr><td>9.</td><td>West Indies</td><td>12</td><td>2</td><td>8</td><td>2</td><td>0</td><td>30</td><td>20.83</td></tr></tbody></table></figure>

Australia retained the top spot in the WTC 2025-27 standings despite their home defeat to Bangladesh, with their points percentage dropping from 87.50 to 77.77.

Bangladesh made history on Sunday (Aug 16) by beating the Aussies by nine wickets in Darwin for their first Test win on Australian soil and only their second victory over them in the format. Bangladesh took a massive 228-run first-innings lead before dismissing the hosts for 284 in the second innings, leaving them with just 57 runs to chase, which they reached in 14.2 overs for the loss of one wicket. The win also gave Bangladesh a major boost in the World Test Championship (WTC) 2025-27 standings, as their points total has increased to 60, while their points percentage (PCT) has improved from 58.33 to 66.67. Despite this rise, Bangladesh continue to occupy fourth place. Before the historic win in Darwin, Bangladesh had already beaten Pakistan twice at home earlier this year. Australia, despite the defeat, remain at the top of the WTC 2025-27 table, however, their PCT has fallen from 87.50 to 77.77. The 2023 WTC champions have now suffered two defeats in nine Tests during the current cycle, with both losses coming at home. Also Read - ICC planning October 2 start for 2027 ODI World Cup to commemorate Mahatma Gandhi Meanwhile, India are currently fifth with a PCT of 48.15 and even if Shubman Gill’s team beat Sri Lanka in the first Test in Galle, they will stay fifth. Their PCT, however, will rise to 53.33. Sri Lanka have a chance to move above India with a win in the first Test. A victory in Galle would take their PCT to 53.33 and put them fifth, while India would drop to sixth with 43.33 per cent. Also Read - ‘We’re Pretty Good at Bouncing Back’: Cummins confident after Darwin Test loss If the Galle Test ends in a draw, Sri Lanka’s PCT will fall to 40.00 and India’s will drop to 46.66. However, neither team would change their position in the WTC standings. Updated WTC 2025-27 standings

Australia retained the top spot in the WTC 2025-27 standings despite their home defeat to Bangladesh, with their points percentage dropping from 87.50 to 77.77.

WTC points table after AUS vs BAN 1st Test: Aussies retain top spot, Bangladesh fourth

The ICC has been mulling an early October start for the 2027 ODI World Cup in Africa, and the latest reports suggest they have informally finalised October 2, which also happens to be Mahatma Gandhi's birth anniversary. Not a coincidence, but the apex body has specifically chosen this date to commemorate the life of Gandhi -- a leader known for advocating peace and non-violence during India’s struggle for Independence. South Africa, Zimbabwe and Namibia are the co-hosts of the 14-team tournament. &nbsp;A Cricbuzz report claims that the ICC intends to mark the start of the 50-over World Cup by coinciding with Gandhi Jayanti. Gandhi, also hailed as the ‘Father of the Nation’ in India, had strong links with Africa, having spent 21 years of his life in South Africa, and was also the architect of India’s freedom movement, making the ICC’s move a fitting tribute to him.&nbsp;Also read| <a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/history-in-darwin-as-bangladesh-stun-australia-with-maiden-test-win-down-under-take-1-0-lead-1786857351533">History in Darwin as Bangladesh stun Australia with maiden Test win Down Under; take 1-0 lead</a> &nbsp;Meanwhile, the ICC earlier planned to start the ODI World Cup on Friday (Oct 8), after scheduling the mandatory warm-up matches between October 1-7. But the plans seemed to have undergone some changes, with the ICC likely to formalise the revised schedule before making it public. With the tournament beginning on October 2, the warm-up matches will be squeezed in before that. The final will likely take place on Sunday (Nov 21), making it a 51-day affair. &nbsp; &nbsp;The ICC also recently announced 12 venues across three countries as host cities for the World Cup matches. While South Africa has been allotted eight cities and Zimbabwe three, Namibia’s Windhoek is the only city to stage World Cup matches.&nbsp;<h3>The 12 chosen venues for the 2027 ODI World Cup are -</h3><ul><li>Wanderers Stadium (Johannesburg, South Africa)</li><li>Centurion (Tshwane, South Africa)</li><li>Newlands Cricket Ground (Cape Town, South Africa)&nbsp;</li><li>Kingsmead Cricket Ground (Durban, South Africa)&nbsp;</li><li>St George’s Park (Gqeberha, South Africa)</li><li>Mangaung Oval (Bloemfontein, South Africa)</li><li>Boland Park (Paarl, South Africa)</li><li>Buffalo Park (KuGompo City, formerly known as East London, South Africa)&nbsp;</li><li>Harare Sports Club (Harare, Zimbabwe)</li><li>Queens Sports Club (Bulawayo, Zimbabwe)</li><li>Mosi-oa-Tunya International Cricket Stadium (Victoria Falls, Zimbabwe) &nbsp;</li><li>Namibia Cricket Ground (Windhoek, Namibia)</li></ul>The ICC also changed the World Cup format for the 14-team tournament, with the three lowest-ranked teams competing in Super Series, whose winner will join the 11 teams to form a 12-team field, divided into two groups. All teams will contest against each other within their respective groups, followed by Super Seven, the two semifinals and the final. &nbsp;While two of the three co-hosts, including South Africa and Zimbabwe, have attained automatic qualification, so have Australia, India, Pakistan, New Zealand, England, Sri Lanka, Bangladesh and Afghanistan; teams like Namibia (co-host), West Indies and Ireland, among others, will feature in a 10-team Qualifier early next year to punch their World Cup tickets.&nbsp;

The ICC plans to start the 2027 ODI World Cup in Africa on October 2 to honour Mahatma Gandhi, featuring a 51-day schedule and a revamped 14-team format. 

The ICC has been mulling an early October start for the 2027 ODI World Cup in Africa, and the latest reports suggest they have informally finalised October 2, which also happens to be Mahatma Gandhi's birth anniversary. Not a coincidence, but the apex body has specifically chosen this date to commemorate the life of Gandhi -- a leader known for advocating peace and non-violence during India’s struggle for Independence. South Africa, Zimbabwe and Namibia are the co-hosts of the 14-team tournament. A Cricbuzz report claims that the ICC intends to mark the start of the 50-over World Cup by coinciding with Gandhi Jayanti. Gandhi, also hailed as the ‘Father of the Nation’ in India, had strong links with Africa, having spent 21 years of his life in South Africa, and was also the architect of India’s freedom movement, making the ICC’s move a fitting tribute to him. Also read| History in Darwin as Bangladesh stun Australia with maiden Test win Down Under; take 1-0 lead Meanwhile, the ICC earlier planned to start the ODI World Cup on Friday (Oct 8), after scheduling the mandatory warm-up matches between October 1-7. But the plans seemed to have undergone some changes, with the ICC likely to formalise the revised schedule before making it public. With the tournament beginning on October 2, the warm-up matches will be squeezed in before that. The final will likely take place on Sunday (Nov 21), making it a 51-day affair. The ICC also recently announced 12 venues across three countries as host cities for the World Cup matches. While South Africa has been allotted eight cities and Zimbabwe three, Namibia’s Windhoek is the only city to stage World Cup matches. The 12 chosen venues for the 2027 ODI World Cup are - Wanderers Stadium (Johannesburg, South Africa) Centurion (Tshwane, South Africa) Newlands Cricket Ground (Cape Town, South Africa) Kingsmead Cricket Ground (Durban, South Africa) St George’s Park (Gqeberha, South Africa) Mangaung Oval (Bloemfontein, South Africa) Boland Park (Paarl, South Africa) Buffalo Park (KuGompo City, formerly known as East London, South Africa) Harare Sports Club (Harare, Zimbabwe) Queens Sports Club (Bulawayo, Zimbabwe) Mosi-oa-Tunya International Cricket Stadium (Victoria Falls, Zimbabwe) Namibia Cricket Ground (Windhoek, Namibia) The ICC also changed the World Cup format for the 14-team tournament, with the three lowest-ranked teams competing in Super Series, whose winner will join the 11 teams to form a 12-team field, divided into two groups. All teams will contest against each other within their respective groups, followed by Super Seven, the two semifinals and the final. While two of the three co-hosts, including South Africa and Zimbabwe, have attained automatic qualification, so have Australia, India, Pakistan, New Zealand, England, Sri Lanka, Bangladesh and Afghanistan; teams like Namibia (co-host), West Indies and Ireland, among others, will feature in a 10-team Qualifier early next year to punch their World Cup tickets.

The ICC plans to start the 2027 ODI World Cup in Africa on October 2 to honour Mahatma Gandhi, featuring a 51-day schedule and a revamped 14-team format.&nbsp;

ICC planning October 2 start for 2027 ODI World Cup to commemorate Mahatma Gandhi

Australian captain Pat Cummins made no excuses for his team’s shocking nine-wicket loss against Bangladesh in the first of the two Tests in Darwin on Sunday (Aug 16). Cummins led a full-strength Australian XI for the series opener but failed to replicate Steve Waugh, who guided Australia to an innings win over Bangladesh at the very venue 23 years ago. While Cummins expressed no concerns over Australia's preparation for the first Test, he hinted at returning to the drawing board and making changes to the XI for the next Test if necessary. &nbsp;Bangladesh, on the other hand, entered this Test on the back of getting folded for just 54 in their scheduled warm-up tie against Cricket Australia XI; they, however, did the unthinkable by beating the mighty Aussies for their first Test win Down Under, and only their second-ever against Australia in Tests. Chasing a mere 57 in the final innings, Bangladesh lost their opener and first-inning hero, Tanzid Hasan, for a duck before Shadman and Mominul stitched a stand to see Bangladesh home with nine wickets remaining. &nbsp;"I thought our preparation was pretty much spot-on. I thought it was excellent, so, yeah, no excuses," Cummins said at the post-match presentation. "They [Bangladesh] played really well. I thought the day one wicket, [there was] a little bit [in it] early but obviously [we've] got to try and find a way to bat a little bit longer than we did, and then just couldn't penetrate with the ball." &nbsp;"They outplayed us in all facets. I thought they were really patient and quite disciplined. Once we were behind, it was really hard to get back,” he continued.&nbsp;&nbsp;Also read| <a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/bangladesh-biggest-win-any-format-shanto-darwin-test-victory-australia-1786861817079">'Our Biggest Win Ever': Captain Shanto on Bangladesh's historic Darwin Test triumph over Australia</a> &nbsp;The Australian cricket team has been in such situations over the years, and has successfully bounced back. Cummins, however, is not ready to back down, reminding everyone of how well the Aussies know about making a comeback. &nbsp;"I think every time there's a game like this, you always kind of look at your match-ups and your make-up with the team for the next one. But we only just finished, [so] we'll have a think about it," Cummins said. “We're pretty good at bouncing back, so no doubt the batters and every group will get together and have a good think about this one and where we can improve.”<h2>Ponting Suggests Changes</h2>Commenting from the broadcast booth, former Australian captain Ricky Ponting suggested that it’s inevitable for the hosts to make changes for the second Test match, starting with one at number three, where Marnus Labuschagne's struggles have persisted for some time. &nbsp; &nbsp;"I think it's inevitable they have to make a change," Ponting said on Channel 7. "I was on the record at the end of last summer thinking that this was the ideal time to start to regenerate this team because the performances from some of the players. I'm the last one (I want) to make change. As a captain or as a player, I wanted to keep the group together. So it has to get to a bad point before I start saying you ought to leave somebody out. &nbsp;“But there had been enough evidence for me coming here to suggest that they weren't going to lose anything or much at all by starting that regeneration, by maybe bringing in another opener, by maybe bringing in someone at No. 3,” Ponting continued.&nbsp;

Pat Cummins accepts no excuses after Australia's shocking 9-wicket defeat to Bangladesh in Darwin, while Ricky Ponting calls for lineup changes ahead of the second Test.

Australian captain Pat Cummins made no excuses for his team’s shocking nine-wicket loss against Bangladesh in the first of the two Tests in Darwin on Sunday (Aug 16). Cummins led a full-strength Australian XI for the series opener but failed to replicate Steve Waugh, who guided Australia to an innings win over Bangladesh at the very venue 23 years ago. While Cummins expressed no concerns over Australia's preparation for the first Test, he hinted at returning to the drawing board and making changes to the XI for the next Test if necessary. Bangladesh, on the other hand, entered this Test on the back of getting folded for just 54 in their scheduled warm-up tie against Cricket Australia XI; they, however, did the unthinkable by beating the mighty Aussies for their first Test win Down Under, and only their second-ever against Australia in Tests. Chasing a mere 57 in the final innings, Bangladesh lost their opener and first-inning hero, Tanzid Hasan, for a duck before Shadman and Mominul stitched a stand to see Bangladesh home with nine wickets remaining. "I thought our preparation was pretty much spot-on. I thought it was excellent, so, yeah, no excuses," Cummins said at the post-match presentation. "They [Bangladesh] played really well. I thought the day one wicket, [there was] a little bit [in it] early but obviously [we've] got to try and find a way to bat a little bit longer than we did, and then just couldn't penetrate with the ball." "They outplayed us in all facets. I thought they were really patient and quite disciplined. Once we were behind, it was really hard to get back,” he continued. Also read| 'Our Biggest Win Ever': Captain Shanto on Bangladesh's historic Darwin Test triumph over Australia The Australian cricket team has been in such situations over the years, and has successfully bounced back. Cummins, however, is not ready to back down, reminding everyone of how well the Aussies know about making a comeback. "I think every time there's a game like this, you always kind of look at your match-ups and your make-up with the team for the next one. But we only just finished, [so] we'll have a think about it," Cummins said. “We're pretty good at bouncing back, so no doubt the batters and every group will get together and have a good think about this one and where we can improve.” Ponting Suggests Changes Commenting from the broadcast booth, former Australian captain Ricky Ponting suggested that it’s inevitable for the hosts to make changes for the second Test match, starting with one at number three, where Marnus Labuschagne's struggles have persisted for some time. "I think it's inevitable they have to make a change," Ponting said on Channel 7. "I was on the record at the end of last summer thinking that this was the ideal time to start to regenerate this team because the performances from some of the players. I'm the last one (I want) to make change. As a captain or as a player, I wanted to keep the group together. So it has to get to a bad point before I start saying you ought to leave somebody out. “But there had been enough evidence for me coming here to suggest that they weren't going to lose anything or much at all by starting that regeneration, by maybe bringing in another opener, by maybe bringing in someone at No. 3,” Ponting continued.

Pat Cummins accepts no excuses after Australia's shocking 9-wicket defeat to Bangladesh in Darwin, while Ricky Ponting calls for lineup changes ahead of the second Test.

‘We’re Pretty Good at Bouncing Back’: Cummins confident after shock Darwin Test loss to Bangladesh

Bangladesh achieved the historic feat of winning a Test match against Australia in Australia on Sunday (Aug 16). Najmul Hossain Shanto-led Bangladesh Test side won the first Test in Darwin by nine wickets, clinching only their second win against Australia in Tests and the first since the 2017 Dhaka Test. &nbsp;Having registered several famous wins across formats over the years, beating a full-strength Australian Test team tops all victories. Shanto, whose captaincy and belief in his team did wonders, said Darwin's Test win will go down as the greatest in Bangladesh's cricket history.&nbsp;Also read| <a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/history-in-darwin-as-bangladesh-stun-australia-with-maiden-test-win-down-under-take-1-0-lead-1786857351533">History in Darwin as Bangladesh stun Australia with maiden Test win Down Under; take 1-0 lead</a> &nbsp;"Very happy, proud of myself and the way the boys played. We did a lot of hard work,” winning captain Shanto said after Bangladesh chased 57 with nine wickets remaining on day four of the Darwin Test. &nbsp;While Mehidy Hasan Miraz was the star player for scoring a gritty fifty in Bangladesh’s first innings and later picking up five wickets in Australia’s second innings, new-ball quick Hasan Mahmud was the Player of the Match for his nine wickets in the game.&nbsp; &nbsp;Speaking on how the pacers orchestrated Bangladesh’s most famous win, Shanto said, “That is the biggest change for Bangladesh in the Test format. Earlier, five years ago, pacers didn't want to play Tests. But we've been playing lots of Test cricket, and they are giving importance to the Test format. They want to play, want to perform, want to be world-class. That is the mindset they now have.”&nbsp;WATCH -

<blockquote class="twitter-tweet">&quot;This is the biggest win so far for Bangladesh cricket in any format.&quot; - Captain Najmul Hossain Shanto <a href="https://x.com/hashtag/AUSvBAN?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#AUSvBAN</a> <a href="https://t.co/IX9c3zgG3M">pic.twitter.com/IX9c3zgG3M</a>&mdash; cricket.com.au (@cricketcomau) <a href="https://x.com/cricketcomau/status/2088864197853507870?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">August 16, 2026</a></blockquote> <script async src="https://platform.x.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script>

<h2>Bangladesh’s Biggest Win</h2>Touring Australia for the second time and in only its third Test Down Under, Bangladesh have a Test win to their name. Putting this win above every other across formats, Shanto reflected, “This is the biggest win so far for Bangladesh in any format. Going forward, we want to do something special in the future.” &nbsp;Upon being asked about their plans for the second Test in Mackay, where they would have a chance of creating history, Shanto explained, “We have to play five days of good cricket, and I'm going to say the same thing. If we play session by session, if the lower order keeps chipping in, those are the things."

Captain Najmul Hossain Shanto calls Bangladesh's historic 9-wicket victory over Australia in Darwin their greatest win in any format after securing a 1-0 series lead.

Bangladesh achieved the historic feat of winning a Test match against Australia in Australia on Sunday (Aug 16). Najmul Hossain Shanto-led Bangladesh Test side won the first Test in Darwin by nine wickets, clinching only their second win against Australia in Tests and the first since the 2017 Dhaka Test. Having registered several famous wins across formats over the years, beating a full-strength Australian Test team tops all victories. Shanto, whose captaincy and belief in his team did wonders, said Darwin's Test win will go down as the greatest in Bangladesh's cricket history. Also read| History in Darwin as Bangladesh stun Australia with maiden Test win Down Under; take 1-0 lead "Very happy, proud of myself and the way the boys played. We did a lot of hard work,” winning captain Shanto said after Bangladesh chased 57 with nine wickets remaining on day four of the Darwin Test. While Mehidy Hasan Miraz was the star player for scoring a gritty fifty in Bangladesh’s first innings and later picking up five wickets in Australia’s second innings, new-ball quick Hasan Mahmud was the Player of the Match for his nine wickets in the game. Speaking on how the pacers orchestrated Bangladesh’s most famous win, Shanto said, “That is the biggest change for Bangladesh in the Test format. Earlier, five years ago, pacers didn't want to play Tests. But we've been playing lots of Test cricket, and they are giving importance to the Test format. They want to play, want to perform, want to be world-class. That is the mindset they now have.” WATCH -

Captain Najmul Hossain Shanto calls Bangladesh's historic 9-wicket victory over Australia in Darwin their greatest win in any format after securing a 1-0 series lead.

'Our Biggest Win Ever': Captain Shanto on Bangladesh's historic Darwin Test triumph over Australia

Hasan Mahmud’s nine-wicket match haul and Mehidy Hasan Miraz’s all-round performance helped Bangladesh beat Australia by nine wickets in the first Test in Darwin on Sunday, taking a 1-0 lead in this two-match Test series. Miraz’s five-for in the second innings dismissed Australia for 284 despite Cameron Green’s third Test hundred and first at home. Shadman Islam and Mominul Haque completed the target of 57 on day four to hand Bangladesh their first Test win in Australia and second overall.&nbsp;WATCH WINNING MOMENT -

<blockquote class="twitter-tweet">History made for Bangladesh as Mominul scores the winning runs against Australia 🤯<a href="https://x.com/hashtag/PlayoftheDay?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#PlayoftheDay</a> | <a href="https://x.com/nrmainsurance?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@NRMAInsurance</a> | <a href="https://x.com/hashtag/AUSvBAN?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#AUSvBAN</a> <a href="https://t.co/9LgSs0D4WJ">pic.twitter.com/9LgSs0D4WJ</a>&mdash; cricket.com.au (@cricketcomau) <a href="https://x.com/cricketcomau/status/2088856163458732274?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">August 16, 2026</a></blockquote> <script async src="https://platform.x.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script>

Playing only their third Test on Australian soil and the first since 2003, Bangladesh entered this contest on the back of getting all out for just 54 during their lone warm-up fixture against the Cricket Australia XI. Instead of feeling burdened about it coming up against a full-strength Australia, Bangladesh believed in their game and executed most plans to keep the Aussies silent throughout the four days. &nbsp;A nine-wicket victory over the mighty Aussies is also Bangladesh’s second-biggest win in terms of wickets in this format. &nbsp;Hasan Mahmud was Bangladesh’s star bowler, picking up his maiden five-wicket haul Down Under in Australia’s first innings and returning with six wickets for just 55 runs. His brilliant display, which included the wickets of the two Aussie openers and even Steve Smith, folded Australia for 198 on day one. Hasan returned with three wickets in Australia's second innings.&nbsp;Also read| <a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/afghanistan-ireland-5th-odi-rahmat-shah-record-chase-2026-1786846749430">IRE vs AFG, 5th ODI: Rahmat Shah’s unbeaten 143 seals Afghanistan’s highest ODI run chase</a> &nbsp;"Before the match, in the practice session, we were doing our best every second and believed in ourselves without thinking of the outcome,” Hasan, who won the Player of the Match award for his nine wickets in Bangladesh’s triumphant Test, said.&nbsp; &nbsp;“We got some team plans with the coaches (on Australia’s batting), watching videos, and that's what we did at the ground. The bowlers were patient; they stuck to the line and length (and) results came.&nbsp; &nbsp;“They will be very happy for me (on fans celebrating Bangladesh’s historic win). My people will be celebrating,” he added. &nbsp;Bangladesh made the most of this chance, racking up 426 runs in reply. Tanzid Hasan’s 101 and a clinical contribution from Mehidy with the bat in hand (65) gave Bangladesh a miraculous 228-run lead, enough to keep them in the driver’s seat. &nbsp;Mehidy, who went wicketless in the first innings, bagged five in the second, including Smith’s on 44 late on day three. He also accounted for Beau Webster and Alex Carey on the fourth day, earning praise for his spell from all quarters.

<blockquote class="twitter-tweet">&quot;Hellooooooooooooooooooo&quot; - Kerry O&#39;Keeffe enjoyed that beauty! <a href="https://x.com/hashtag/AUSvBAN?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#AUSvBAN</a> <a href="https://t.co/c6lvDgwe2P">pic.twitter.com/c6lvDgwe2P</a>&mdash; cricket.com.au (@cricketcomau) <a href="https://x.com/cricketcomau/status/2088800760783921532?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">August 16, 2026</a></blockquote> <script async src="https://platform.x.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script>

<h3>Green Shone but Australia Slumped</h3>Just days after the internet tore into Green’s place in the Test team, the lanky all-rounder took the onus on himself and saved Australia from a potential innings defeat. Scoring his third Test hundred and the first on home soil, Green did enough for the Aussie bowlers to come out and push for an improbable win.

<blockquote class="twitter-tweet">There it is! 100 for Cameron Green, his first Test ton on Aussie shores. <a href="https://x.com/hashtag/MilestoneMoment?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#MilestoneMoment</a> | <a href="https://x.com/nrmainsurance?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@NRMAInsurance</a> | <a href="https://x.com/hashtag/AUSvBAN?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#AUSvBAN</a> <a href="https://t.co/rSBtMgOihx">pic.twitter.com/rSBtMgOihx</a>&mdash; cricket.com.au (@cricketcomau) <a href="https://x.com/cricketcomau/status/2088834769643508131?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">August 16, 2026</a></blockquote> <script async src="https://platform.x.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script>

Although that did not happen as Bangladesh’s top-order quickly chased a moderate total, Green perhaps secured his place in the XI for the second Test in Mackay from next Saturday onwards.

Hasan Mahmud's nine-wicket match haul and Mehidy Hasan Miraz's five-for powered Bangladesh to a historic nine-wicket Test victory over Australia in Darwin, securing their first-ever Test win Down Under.

Hasan Mahmud’s nine-wicket match haul and Mehidy Hasan Miraz’s all-round performance helped Bangladesh beat Australia by nine wickets in the first Test in Darwin on Sunday, taking a 1-0 lead in this two-match Test series. Miraz’s five-for in the second innings dismissed Australia for 284 despite Cameron Green’s third Test hundred and first at home. Shadman Islam and Mominul Haque completed the target of 57 on day four to hand Bangladesh their first Test win in Australia and second overall. WATCH WINNING MOMENT -

Hasan Mahmud's nine-wicket match haul and Mehidy Hasan Miraz's five-for powered Bangladesh to a historic nine-wicket Test victory over Australia in Darwin, securing their first-ever Test win Down Under.

History in Darwin as Bangladesh stun Australia with maiden Test win Down Under; take 1-0 lead

Pakistan endured a tough time in their FIH Hockey World Cup opener against England on Saturday. Not only did they lose 4-1, but they were also left embarrassed by a mistake that should have been avoided. Pakistan’s hockey team apparently forgot to place their protective gear behind the goal post, which is often required during penalty corners. Former Pakistan captain Salman Akbar criticised the team's basic sense for missing the essentials, especially during a World Cup game. &nbsp;Midway through the second quarter, around the 17th minute, when England were awarded a penalty corner, the Pakistan team was seeking their protective gear around the goal post. In an embarrassing moment, they were unable to find any, after which a player rushed to the dressing room to bring the kit, delaying the game. As a result, the referee showed Pakistan captain Abu Baker Mahmood a green card, forcing him to stay off the field for two minutes.&nbsp;Also read| <a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/fih-hockey-world-cup-2026-india-celebrate-independence-day-with-3-1-win-over-wales-1786802828688">FIH Hockey World Cup 2026: India celebrate Independence Day with 3-1 win over Wales</a> &nbsp;Taking to his social media handle X, Salman posted a photo of the player rushing to the spot carrying the protective gear kit and wrote,&nbsp;&nbsp;"Wow. Another unwanted record from Pakistan hockey. In the opening match of the FIH Hockey World Cup 2026 against England, Pakistan reportedly forgot the penalty corner protective gear in the changing room. As a result, the captain received the green card. Forgetting essential protective equipment for penalty corners that simply cannot happen on the biggest stage of international hockey. &nbsp;"Preparation is not just about tactics, fitness and skills. It is also about discipline and organisation. The World Cup demands the highest level of professionalism. Unfortunately, moments like this raise serious questions about how prepared we really are for the big stage," the former captain continued.

<blockquote class="twitter-tweet">Wow. Another unwanted record from Pakistan hockey. In the opening match of the FIH Hockey World Cup 2026 against England, Pakistan reportedly forgot the penalty corner protective gear in the changing room. As a result, the captain received the green card. Forgetting essential… <a href="https://t.co/nBGOQOJZOH">pic.twitter.com/nBGOQOJZOH</a>&mdash; Salman Akbar (@SalmanAkbar12) <a href="https://x.com/SalmanAkbar12/status/2088720331532063091?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">August 15, 2026</a></blockquote> <script async src="https://platform.x.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script>

Meanwhile, after losing its opener to England, Pakistan will next face Wales on August 17 before taking on arch-rivals India two days later on August 19. India, on the other hand, opened their World Cup campaign against Wales, beating them convincingly 3-1.&nbsp; &nbsp;India will face England next on August 17.

Pakistan suffered an embarrassing 4-1 defeat to England in their FIH Hockey World Cup 2026 opener after forgetting their penalty corner protective gear, leaving captain Abu Bakar Mahmood green-carded.

Pakistan endured a tough time in their FIH Hockey World Cup opener against England on Saturday. Not only did they lose 4-1, but they were also left embarrassed by a mistake that should have been avoided. Pakistan’s hockey team apparently forgot to place their protective gear behind the goal post, which is often required during penalty corners. Former Pakistan captain Salman Akbar criticised the team's basic sense for missing the essentials, especially during a World Cup game. Midway through the second quarter, around the 17th minute, when England were awarded a penalty corner, the Pakistan team was seeking their protective gear around the goal post. In an embarrassing moment, they were unable to find any, after which a player rushed to the dressing room to bring the kit, delaying the game. As a result, the referee showed Pakistan captain Abu Baker Mahmood a green card, forcing him to stay off the field for two minutes. Also read| FIH Hockey World Cup 2026: India celebrate Independence Day with 3-1 win over Wales Taking to his social media handle X, Salman posted a photo of the player rushing to the spot carrying the protective gear kit and wrote, "Wow. Another unwanted record from Pakistan hockey. In the opening match of the FIH Hockey World Cup 2026 against England, Pakistan reportedly forgot the penalty corner protective gear in the changing room. As a result, the captain received the green card. Forgetting essential protective equipment for penalty corners that simply cannot happen on the biggest stage of international hockey. "Preparation is not just about tactics, fitness and skills. It is also about discipline and organisation. The World Cup demands the highest level of professionalism. Unfortunately, moments like this raise serious questions about how prepared we really are for the big stage," the former captain continued.

Pakistan suffered an embarrassing 4-1 defeat to England in their FIH Hockey World Cup 2026 opener after forgetting their penalty corner protective gear, leaving captain Abu Bakar Mahmood green-carded.

Hockey World Cup: Pakistan face embarrassment after penalty corner kit blunder vs England

Has Devdutt Padikkal answered all the questions the men’s selection committee and the team management were seeking for the longest time? Perhaps! The left-handed batter came in at number three on day one of the first Test against Sri Lanka in Galle and owned it completely. Padikkal smashed his maiden Test hundred, remaining unbeaten on 131* at stumps, propelling India to 288 for two and into the driver’s seat. Looking in command and control of his knock, Padikkal made light work of Sri Lanka’s bowling attack, impressing all, including cricketer-turned-broadcaster Sanjay Manjrekar. &nbsp;Since dropping Cheteshwar Pujara at number three, India tried several options, including their Test captain Shubman Gill in that position, but none seemed to have clicked. Sai Sudharsan was the last to be tried before a toe injury ruled him out of the series, which opened the gates for Padikkal to return to the Test setup.&nbsp;&nbsp;Also read| <a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/ind-vs-sl-1st-test-devdutt-padikkal-hits-maiden-test-century-as-india-dominate-day-1-1786800976195">IND vs SL, 1st Test: Devdutt Padikkal hits maiden Test century as India dominate Day 1</a> &nbsp;Riding on a brilliant hundred in the warm-up fixture, Padikkal was bound to have a breakthrough outing in the series opener, and going by the looks of his shot selection, he did not disappoint. His display against the Sri Lankan spinners was the highlight of his innings, and Manjrekar had nothing but high praise for the lanky batter.&nbsp; &nbsp;Taking to his X handle following Padikkal’s maiden Test hundred, Manjrekar wrote, “Devdutt Padikkal god sent for India v spinners. Excellent technique, both in defence &amp; attack. 👏👏👏”

<blockquote class="twitter-tweet">Devdutt Padikkal god sent for India v spinners. Excellent technique, both in defence &amp; attack. 👏👏👏&mdash; Sanjay Manjrekar (@sanjaymanjrekar) <a href="https://x.com/sanjaymanjrekar/status/2088568118130172284?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">August 15, 2026</a></blockquote> <script async src="https://platform.x.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script>

Later, commenting on his strengths during a chat on Sony Sports Network, Manjrekar said, “Devdutt Padikkal was the big change that India had, I really think selection is so good that when you see Padikkal walk in and play spin so comfortably, because he's good in defense against spin, he's good at picking 1s and 2s when the field is slightly deep, and then he's also good at playing attacking shots, and that too off the back foot on slow, turning pitches.”<h3>Backfoot Shots Separate Padikkal from Rest</h3>While he looked utterly in control of his shot selection on the front foot, Padikkal’s backfoot shot selection left Manjrekar in awe. The former Indian batter even suggested that Padikkal should continue at number three for India in Tests even when Sudharsan returns from his injury. &nbsp;“That's something remarkable. On slow, turning pitches, to hit shots off the back foot with a straight bat and the pull shot tells you that it's somebody who wants to get onto the back foot, and the best way to play spin on a slow, turning pitch is to play the majority of the bowling off the back foot.&nbsp; &nbsp;“Along with that, he's also got this knack of going down the pitch and hitting the ball over the sight screen. So on pitches where there is going to be an emphasis on spin, India should bat him at number 3 even if Sai Sudharsan comes back, because he looks such a formidable player against spin; I think it was a godsend for India, Devdutt Padikkal at No. 3 with the kind of spin talent he has,” Manjrekar continued.

Devdutt Padikkal hit his maiden Test century (131*) against Sri Lanka in Galle, earning high praise from Sanjay Manjrekar, who called him a "godsend for India vs spinners."

Has Devdutt Padikkal answered all the questions the men’s selection committee and the team management were seeking for the longest time? Perhaps! The left-handed batter came in at number three on day one of the first Test against Sri Lanka in Galle and owned it completely. Padikkal smashed his maiden Test hundred, remaining unbeaten on 131* at stumps, propelling India to 288 for two and into the driver’s seat. Looking in command and control of his knock, Padikkal made light work of Sri Lanka’s bowling attack, impressing all, including cricketer-turned-broadcaster Sanjay Manjrekar. Since dropping Cheteshwar Pujara at number three, India tried several options, including their Test captain Shubman Gill in that position, but none seemed to have clicked. Sai Sudharsan was the last to be tried before a toe injury ruled him out of the series, which opened the gates for Padikkal to return to the Test setup. Also read| IND vs SL, 1st Test: Devdutt Padikkal hits maiden Test century as India dominate Day 1 Riding on a brilliant hundred in the warm-up fixture, Padikkal was bound to have a breakthrough outing in the series opener, and going by the looks of his shot selection, he did not disappoint. His display against the Sri Lankan spinners was the highlight of his innings, and Manjrekar had nothing but high praise for the lanky batter. Taking to his X handle following Padikkal’s maiden Test hundred, Manjrekar wrote, “Devdutt Padikkal god sent for India v spinners. Excellent technique, both in defence & attack. 👏👏👏”

Devdutt Padikkal hit his maiden Test century (131*) against Sri Lanka in Galle, earning high praise from Sanjay Manjrekar, who called him a "godsend for India vs spinners."

IND vs SL: ‘God Sent Against Spin’ — Devdutt Padikkal earns high praise for Galle Test ton

After sealing 2027 ODI World Cup qualification, Afghanistan romped past hosts Ireland to win the five-match One-Day series 4-0. Leading 3-0 heading into the final match in Belfast on Saturday (Aug 15) after the series opener was washed out, Afghanistan completed their highest ODI run chase to win the game by six wickets. Chasing 299, Afghanistan captain Rahmat Shah led from the front and smashed an unbeaten 143, while stitching a record third-wicket partnership with Sediqullah Atal. &nbsp;Afghanistan needed to win this series to punch their ticket to the World Cup, and after winning the third ODI, they did so, sliding the former two-time world champions, West Indies, out of the qualification picture. The West Indies will now feature in the World Cup Qualifiers early next year in a bid to make the 14-team tournament in Africa in 2027.&nbsp;Also read| <a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/ind-vs-sl-1st-test-kl-rahul-cramps-spark-fitness-concern-batting-coach-provides-update-1786808790092">IND vs SL, 1st Test: KL Rahul cramps spark fitness concern, batting coach provides update</a> &nbsp;Meanwhile, Shah, who smashed his seventh ODI hundred, added 201 runs for the third wicket with Atal after Ireland reduced Afghanistan to 22 for two inside the first six overs. Left-arm quick Liam McCarthy picked up the first two wickets. Their partnership, however, was the highest third-wicket record for Afghanistan in One-Dayers, surpassing the 184-run stand between Shah and Hashmatullah Shahidi against Ireland in Abu Dhabi in 2021.<h2>No Consolation Win for Ireland</h2>It seemed Ireland would at least enjoy a consolation win in the last ODI after all-rounder Curtis Campher's quickfire 96 took them to a total of 298-7 in the first innings. And they were even better-placed when McCarthy (3-47) dismissed Ibrahim Zadran and Rahmanullah Gurbaz early in Afghanistan's pursuit of a target of 299. &nbsp;However, Shah and Atal rebuilt steadily before unleashing against Ireland leg-spinner Gavin Hoey, who conceded 73 runs without picking up a wicket. Shah's 109-ball century included nine fours and a six, with Atal narrowly failing to record hundreds in consecutive games after being brilliantly caught by Cade Carmichael looking to pull McCarthy out of the ground. Afghanistan still needed 76 runs in almost nine overs at that stage but, with Azmatullah Omarzai adding a rapid 24, they won with seven balls to spare.

Rahmat Shah’s unbeaten 143 and a record 201-run stand with Sediqullah Atal powered Afghanistan to their highest-ever ODI run chase, beating Ireland in Belfast to complete a 4-0 series sweep.

After sealing 2027 ODI World Cup qualification, Afghanistan romped past hosts Ireland to win the five-match One-Day series 4-0. Leading 3-0 heading into the final match in Belfast on Saturday (Aug 15) after the series opener was washed out, Afghanistan completed their highest ODI run chase to win the game by six wickets. Chasing 299, Afghanistan captain Rahmat Shah led from the front and smashed an unbeaten 143, while stitching a record third-wicket partnership with Sediqullah Atal. Afghanistan needed to win this series to punch their ticket to the World Cup, and after winning the third ODI, they did so, sliding the former two-time world champions, West Indies, out of the qualification picture. The West Indies will now feature in the World Cup Qualifiers early next year in a bid to make the 14-team tournament in Africa in 2027. Also read| IND vs SL, 1st Test: KL Rahul cramps spark fitness concern, batting coach provides update Meanwhile, Shah, who smashed his seventh ODI hundred, added 201 runs for the third wicket with Atal after Ireland reduced Afghanistan to 22 for two inside the first six overs. Left-arm quick Liam McCarthy picked up the first two wickets. Their partnership, however, was the highest third-wicket record for Afghanistan in One-Dayers, surpassing the 184-run stand between Shah and Hashmatullah Shahidi against Ireland in Abu Dhabi in 2021. No Consolation Win for Ireland It seemed Ireland would at least enjoy a consolation win in the last ODI after all-rounder Curtis Campher's quickfire 96 took them to a total of 298-7 in the first innings. And they were even better-placed when McCarthy (3-47) dismissed Ibrahim Zadran and Rahmanullah Gurbaz early in Afghanistan's pursuit of a target of 299. However, Shah and Atal rebuilt steadily before unleashing against Ireland leg-spinner Gavin Hoey, who conceded 73 runs without picking up a wicket. Shah's 109-ball century included nine fours and a six, with Atal narrowly failing to record hundreds in consecutive games after being brilliantly caught by Cade Carmichael looking to pull McCarthy out of the ground. Afghanistan still needed 76 runs in almost nine overs at that stage but, with Azmatullah Omarzai adding a rapid 24, they won with seven balls to spare.

Rahmat Shah’s unbeaten 143 and a record 201-run stand with Sediqullah Atal powered Afghanistan to their highest-ever ODI run chase, beating Ireland in Belfast to complete a 4-0 series sweep.

IRE vs AFG, 5th ODI: Rahmat Shah’s unbeaten 143 seals Afghanistan’s highest ODI run chase

Paris Saint-Germain have signed Spain’s World Cup-winning forward Ferran Torres from Barcelona on a contract that will run until 2031, the two clubs confirmed on Saturday (Aug 15). The transfer fee was not revealed, but media reports claimed PSG paid €50 million ($57.83 million) for the 26-year-old.&nbsp;“I’m delighted to be beginning a new adventure ‌at such an ambitious club ‌as ⁠Paris St Germain,” Torres said in a statement.&nbsp;“I’d like to thank President Nasser Al-Khelaifi, (PSG’s football advisor) Luis Campos and coach Luis ‌Enrique for giving me the opportunity to join the team, which I hope to help win as many trophies as possible.”&nbsp;Also Read - <a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/ind-vs-sl-1st-test-kl-rahul-cramps-spark-fitness-concern-batting-coach-provides-update-1786808790092">IND vs SL, 1st Test: KL Rahul cramps spark fitness concern, batting coach provides update</a>&nbsp;Torres arrives in Paris after scoring the extra-time winner against Argentina in the World Cup final. He had an impressive season with Barcelona, scoring 21 goals and providing three assists in 49 appearances across all competitions as the Catalan club successfully defended their LaLiga title.&nbsp;Also Read - <a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/fih-hockey-world-cup-2026-india-celebrate-independence-day-with-3-1-win-over-wales-1786802828688">FIH Hockey World Cup: India celebrate Independence Day with 3-1 win over Wales</a>&nbsp;The forward joined Barcelona in 2022 following a short spell with Premier League club Manchester City.&nbsp;Torres has also scored 25 goals in 65 appearances for Spain. At PSG, he will reunite with Luis Enrique, having previously played under the Spanish coach during his time as the national team manager.

Spain’s World Cup hero has joined the French capital after scoring the extra-time winner against Argentina in the World Cup final.

Paris Saint-Germain have signed Spain’s World Cup-winning forward Ferran Torres from Barcelona on a contract that will run until 2031, the two clubs confirmed on Saturday (Aug 15). The transfer fee was not revealed, but media reports claimed PSG paid €50 million ($57.83 million) for the 26-year-old. “I’m delighted to be beginning a new adventure ‌at such an ambitious club ‌as ⁠Paris St Germain,” Torres said in a statement. “I’d like to thank President Nasser Al-Khelaifi, (PSG’s football advisor) Luis Campos and coach Luis ‌Enrique for giving me the opportunity to join the team, which I hope to help win as many trophies as possible.” Also Read - IND vs SL, 1st Test: KL Rahul cramps spark fitness concern, batting coach provides update Torres arrives in Paris after scoring the extra-time winner against Argentina in the World Cup final. He had an impressive season with Barcelona, scoring 21 goals and providing three assists in 49 appearances across all competitions as the Catalan club successfully defended their LaLiga title. Also Read - FIH Hockey World Cup: India celebrate Independence Day with 3-1 win over Wales The forward joined Barcelona in 2022 following a short spell with Premier League club Manchester City. Torres has also scored 25 goals in 65 appearances for Spain. At PSG, he will reunite with Luis Enrique, having previously played under the Spanish coach during his time as the national team manager.

Spain’s World Cup hero has joined the French capital after scoring the extra-time winner against Argentina in the World Cup final.

PSG sign World Cup hero Ferran Torres from Barcelona

India batting coach Sitanshu Kotak has ruled out any serious concern over KL Rahul after the batter retired hurt on 77 during the first Test against Sri Lanka on Saturday (Aug 15). Kotak said Rahul was ‘absolutely fine’ at the end of the day and is expected to bat again on Sunday.&nbsp;Rahul returned late from the pavilion after the tea break in Galle and appeared to be in discomfort. He struggled to move his fingers and received treatment from the physio before leaving the field. Captain Shubman Gill then replaced him at the crease.&nbsp;India finished the opening day at 288/2, with Rahul’s patient 162-ball 77 and Devdutt Padikkal’s unbeaten 131 off 178 balls laying the foundation.&nbsp;Also Read - <a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/ind-vs-sl-1st-test-devdutt-padikkal-hits-maiden-test-century-as-india-dominate-day-1-1786800976195">IND vs SL, 1st Test: Devdutt Padikkal hits maiden Test century as India dominate</a>&nbsp;“KL batted really well. I think he was getting only cramps. So by the end of the day, he was fine. Probably once you start getting cramps, you get it in the hamstring, you get it in the groin, you get it in your hand. But at the moment he looks absolutely fine. So he should be good to go tomorrow,” Kotak said, as quoted by PTI.&nbsp;Also Read - <a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/fih-hockey-world-cup-2026-india-celebrate-independence-day-with-3-1-win-over-wales-1786802828688">FIH Hockey World Cup 2026: India celebrate Independence Day with 3-1 win over Wales</a>&nbsp;Kotak also praised Rahul’s ability to adapt to different roles and called him a valuable player for the team.&nbsp;“See, he is someone, when he plays in one-day (match), as if you have seen him, he bats at number 6 or 5. So when you are a senior batsman, and if you are open to bat at any number and help the team, I think that is a great player to have. So for a team, he is very useful. In a red-ball match, he opens; in a one-day match, he bats wherever required. Now, the way he is batting, he is taking a lot of responsibility; he is trying to create a lot of partnerships, and that is something really good to have, and he has been very, very consistent,” he added.

KL Rahul is expected to be fit to resume his innings on Day 2 after retiring hurt on 77 due to cramps during the first Test against Sri Lanka in Galle, India batting coach Sitanshu Kotak said.

India batting coach Sitanshu Kotak has ruled out any serious concern over KL Rahul after the batter retired hurt on 77 during the first Test against Sri Lanka on Saturday (Aug 15). Kotak said Rahul was ‘absolutely fine’ at the end of the day and is expected to bat again on Sunday. Rahul returned late from the pavilion after the tea break in Galle and appeared to be in discomfort. He struggled to move his fingers and received treatment from the physio before leaving the field. Captain Shubman Gill then replaced him at the crease. India finished the opening day at 288/2, with Rahul’s patient 162-ball 77 and Devdutt Padikkal’s unbeaten 131 off 178 balls laying the foundation. Also Read - IND vs SL, 1st Test: Devdutt Padikkal hits maiden Test century as India dominate “KL batted really well. I think he was getting only cramps. So by the end of the day, he was fine. Probably once you start getting cramps, you get it in the hamstring, you get it in the groin, you get it in your hand. But at the moment he looks absolutely fine. So he should be good to go tomorrow,” Kotak said, as quoted by PTI. Also Read - FIH Hockey World Cup 2026: India celebrate Independence Day with 3-1 win over Wales Kotak also praised Rahul’s ability to adapt to different roles and called him a valuable player for the team. “See, he is someone, when he plays in one-day (match), as if you have seen him, he bats at number 6 or 5. So when you are a senior batsman, and if you are open to bat at any number and help the team, I think that is a great player to have. So for a team, he is very useful. In a red-ball match, he opens; in a one-day match, he bats wherever required. Now, the way he is batting, he is taking a lot of responsibility; he is trying to create a lot of partnerships, and that is something really good to have, and he has been very, very consistent,” he added.

KL Rahul is expected to be fit to resume his innings on Day 2 after retiring hurt on 77 due to cramps during the first Test against Sri Lanka in Galle, India batting coach Sitanshu Kotak said.

IND vs SL, 1st Test: KL Rahul cramps spark fitness concern, batting coach provides update

India started their FIH Men’s Hockey World Cup 2026 campaign with a 3-1 win over Wales in their opening Pool D match at the Wagener Stadium on Saturday (Aug 15). India took control early, with Sanjay and captain Harmanpreet Singh scoring from penalty corners in the first quarter. Sanjay opened the scoring in the eighth minute, while Harmanpreet added another three minutes later to give India a 2-0 lead.&nbsp;India remained dominant after the break and Harmanpreet scored his second goal in the 43rd minute by converting another penalty corner. Wales pulled one back in the 55th minute when Sam Welsh scored following a scramble inside the circle.&nbsp;India’s defence stayed strong in the final stages to secure all three points.&nbsp;The victory puts India at the top of Pool D and they will next face England on Aug 17. India are grouped alongside England, Wales and arch-rivals Pakistan.&nbsp;Also Read - <a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/ind-vs-sl-1st-test-devdutt-padikkal-hits-maiden-test-century-as-india-dominate-day-1-1786800976195">IND vs SL, 1st Test: Devdutt Padikkal hits maiden Test century as India dominate Day 1</a>&nbsp;India won their only World Cup title in 1975, beating Pakistan 2-1 in the final. They finished ninth in the 2023 edition in Bhubaneswar and will be hoping to end their long wait for another World Cup triumph.&nbsp;The team enters the tournament with confidence after winning back-to-back Olympic bronze medals, the Asia Cup and two Asian Champions Trophy titles.&nbsp;Also Read - <a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/80-years-countless-milestones-india-s-sporting-journey-since-1947-1786796880051">80 years, countless milestones: India’s sporting journey since 1947</a>&nbsp;Before the opening match, Harmanpreet spoke about India’s determination to end their World Cup drought. Speaking to JioStar, he said the tournament is a major opportunity, particularly for the senior players in the squad.&nbsp;“The World Cup means a lot to all of us because after this World Cup, you never know what might happen. There are several senior players in the team as well, so for us, this is a great opportunity,” Harmanpreet said.

Harmanpreet Singh’s India began their Hockey World Cup campaign with a convincing 3-1 win over Wales on Independence Day, with the captain scoring twice to help the team make a strong start.

India started their FIH Men’s Hockey World Cup 2026 campaign with a 3-1 win over Wales in their opening Pool D match at the Wagener Stadium on Saturday (Aug 15). India took control early, with Sanjay and captain Harmanpreet Singh scoring from penalty corners in the first quarter. Sanjay opened the scoring in the eighth minute, while Harmanpreet added another three minutes later to give India a 2-0 lead. India remained dominant after the break and Harmanpreet scored his second goal in the 43rd minute by converting another penalty corner. Wales pulled one back in the 55th minute when Sam Welsh scored following a scramble inside the circle. India’s defence stayed strong in the final stages to secure all three points. The victory puts India at the top of Pool D and they will next face England on Aug 17. India are grouped alongside England, Wales and arch-rivals Pakistan. Also Read - IND vs SL, 1st Test: Devdutt Padikkal hits maiden Test century as India dominate Day 1 India won their only World Cup title in 1975, beating Pakistan 2-1 in the final. They finished ninth in the 2023 edition in Bhubaneswar and will be hoping to end their long wait for another World Cup triumph. The team enters the tournament with confidence after winning back-to-back Olympic bronze medals, the Asia Cup and two Asian Champions Trophy titles. Also Read - 80 years, countless milestones: India’s sporting journey since 1947 Before the opening match, Harmanpreet spoke about India’s determination to end their World Cup drought. Speaking to JioStar, he said the tournament is a major opportunity, particularly for the senior players in the squad. “The World Cup means a lot to all of us because after this World Cup, you never know what might happen. There are several senior players in the team as well, so for us, this is a great opportunity,” Harmanpreet said.

Harmanpreet Singh’s India began their Hockey World Cup campaign with a convincing 3-1 win over Wales on Independence Day, with the captain scoring twice to help the team make a strong start.

FIH Hockey World Cup 2026: India celebrate Independence Day with 3-1 win over Wales

Devdutt Padikkal’s maiden Test century and a steady 77 from KL Rahul helped India dominate the opening day of the first Test against Sri Lanka on Saturday (Aug 15). India finished the day at 288/2, with Padikkal unbeaten on 131 and Rishabh Pant on 27. Padikkal, promoted to No. 3 in place of the injured Sai Sudharsan, played with confidence throughout the day and completed his century in 134 balls, hitting nine fours and a six.&nbsp;&nbsp;Rahul and Padikkal shared a 150-run partnership for the second wicket after Yashasvi Jaiswal was run out for 32. Rahul later retired hurt after suffering from cramps when he was on 77.&nbsp;Shubman Gill joined Padikkal after Rahul’s departure and helped India move past 200. Gill scored 16 before being dismissed by spinner Prabath Jayasuriya, leaving India at 236/2.&nbsp;Padikkal then continued to attack the Sri Lankan spinners alongside Pant. Pant struck Jayasuriya for a four and a six, while Padikkal also found the boundaries regularly as India moved closer to 300.&nbsp;Also Read - <a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/80-years-countless-milestones-india-s-sporting-journey-since-1947-1786796880051">80 years, countless milestones: India’s sporting journey since 1947</a>&nbsp;Earlier, India lost Jaiswal in the 11th over after a mix-up with Rahul. Jaiswal slipped while attempting a single and both batters ended up at the same end. Rahul reached the crease first, leaving Jaiswal short of his ground.&nbsp;Jaiswal’s dismissal was his third run-out in Test cricket. He had previously been dismissed in similar way against Australia at the MCG in 2024 and the West Indies in Delhi last year.&nbsp;Also Read - <a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/ind-vs-sl-1st-test-padikkal-marks-comeback-with-maiden-international-century-1786793823609">IND vs SL, 1st Test: Padikkal marks comeback with maiden international century</a>&nbsp;Rahul and Padikkal then rebuilt the innings and both batters completed their half-centuries before lunch, with India reaching 101/1 after 27 overs.&nbsp;Sri Lanka struggled to create much movement or turn from the pitch, allowing India’s batters to remain in control for most of the day. Rain briefly interrupted play, but India returned strongly after the break and ended the day in a commanding position.&nbsp;With inputs from agencies

Padikkal, who last played a Test in 2024, showcased his growth and maturity by scoring his maiden international century off 134 balls.

Devdutt Padikkal’s maiden Test century and a steady 77 from KL Rahul helped India dominate the opening day of the first Test against Sri Lanka on Saturday (Aug 15). India finished the day at 288/2, with Padikkal unbeaten on 131 and Rishabh Pant on 27. Padikkal, promoted to No. 3 in place of the injured Sai Sudharsan, played with confidence throughout the day and completed his century in 134 balls, hitting nine fours and a six. Rahul and Padikkal shared a 150-run partnership for the second wicket after Yashasvi Jaiswal was run out for 32. Rahul later retired hurt after suffering from cramps when he was on 77. Shubman Gill joined Padikkal after Rahul’s departure and helped India move past 200. Gill scored 16 before being dismissed by spinner Prabath Jayasuriya, leaving India at 236/2. Padikkal then continued to attack the Sri Lankan spinners alongside Pant. Pant struck Jayasuriya for a four and a six, while Padikkal also found the boundaries regularly as India moved closer to 300. Also Read - 80 years, countless milestones: India’s sporting journey since 1947 Earlier, India lost Jaiswal in the 11th over after a mix-up with Rahul. Jaiswal slipped while attempting a single and both batters ended up at the same end. Rahul reached the crease first, leaving Jaiswal short of his ground. Jaiswal’s dismissal was his third run-out in Test cricket. He had previously been dismissed in similar way against Australia at the MCG in 2024 and the West Indies in Delhi last year. Also Read - IND vs SL, 1st Test: Padikkal marks comeback with maiden international century Rahul and Padikkal then rebuilt the innings and both batters completed their half-centuries before lunch, with India reaching 101/1 after 27 overs. Sri Lanka struggled to create much movement or turn from the pitch, allowing India’s batters to remain in control for most of the day. Rain briefly interrupted play, but India returned strongly after the break and ended the day in a commanding position. With inputs from agencies

Padikkal, who last played a Test in 2024, showcased his growth and maturity by scoring his maiden international century off 134 balls.

IND vs SL, 1st Test: Devdutt Padikkal hits maiden Test century as India dominate Day 1

India’s sporting story since Independence has been marked by determination, historic breakthroughs, remarkable comebacks and champions who have inspired millions. From hockey’s dominance in the early years to major achievements in cricket, athletics, badminton, wrestling, shooting, boxing, chess and other sports, India has steadily strengthened its presence on the global sporting stage.&nbsp;As India celebrates its 80th year of Independence, here is a look at some of the country’s biggest sporting milestones:<ul><li>1948 : India wins Olympic hockey gold: Independent India won its first Olympic medal as the men’s hockey team claimed gold at the London Games.</li><li>1951 : India wins Asian Games football gold: India became football champions at the first Asian Games, held in New Delhi.</li><li>1952 : KD Jadhav wins Olympic bronze: Jadhav became the first Indian to win an individual Olympic medal after securing bronze in wrestling at the Helsinki Games.</li><li>1956 : India reaches Olympic football semi-finals: India finished fourth at the Melbourne Olympics, which remains the country’s best Olympic football finish.</li><li>1956 : India wins Olympic hockey gold: India defeated Pakistan in the final in Melbourne to retain the hockey title.</li><li>1958 : Milkha Singh wins Commonwealth Games gold: Singh won the 440 yard race in Cardiff, becoming independent India’s first Commonwealth Games athletics gold medallist.</li><li>1958 : Lila Ram wins Commonwealth Games wrestling gold: Ram became the first Indian wrestler to win gold at the Commonwealth Games.</li><li>1958 : Milkha Singh wins two Asian Games golds: He topped the podium in the 200m and 400m events.</li><li>1960 : Milkha Singh finishes fourth in Olympic 400m: Singh narrowly missed a medal in Rome, finishing fourth in one of India’s finest Olympic athletics performances.</li><li>1962 : India wins Asian Games football gold: India defeated South Korea in the Jakarta final to claim its second Asian Games football title.</li><li>1964 : India wins Olympic hockey gold: India defeated Pakistan in the Tokyo final to secure another Olympic hockey title.</li><li>1966 : India wins Asian Games hockey gold: India claimed its first Asian Games hockey gold in Bangkok.</li><li>1971 : India wins Test series in West Indies and England: Under Ajit Wadekar, India recorded its first Test series victories in both countries in the same year.</li><li>1972 : India wins Olympic hockey bronze: India secured its 10th consecutive Olympic hockey medal with bronze at the Munich Games.</li><li>1975 : India wins Hockey World Cup: India defeated Pakistan in the final in Kuala Lumpur to claim its first and only Hockey World Cup title.</li><li>1980 : India wins eighth Olympic hockey gold: India extended its record by winning an eighth men’s hockey Olympic gold medal.</li><li>1983 : India wins maiden ODI World Cup: Kapil Dev’s team stunned defending champions West Indies at Lord’s to win India’s first ODI World Cup.</li><li>1984 : PT Usha finishes fourth at Olympics: Usha missed bronze in the 400m hurdles at Los Angeles by just 0.01 seconds.</li><li>1985 : Prakash Padukone wins All England title: Padukone became the first Indian to win the prestigious badminton championship.</li><li>1986 : PT Usha wins four Asian Games golds: Usha won four gold medals and one silver at the Seoul Asian Games.</li></ul>Also Read - <a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/how-indian-cricket-dismantled-poor-traveler-reputation-1786784382087">How India broke 'poor traveller' tag to become cricket rulers since independence</a><ul><li>1988 : Viswanathan Anand becomes India’s first chess Grandmaster: Anand achieved the feat at the age of 18.</li><li>1996 : Leander Paes wins Olympic bronze: Paes won the men’s singles bronze in Atlanta, giving India its first individual Olympic medal in 44 years.</li><li>1999 : Paes and Bhupathi win French Open: The Indian duo claimed their first Grand Slam men’s doubles title together.</li><li>1999 : Paes and Bhupathi win Wimbledon: The pair added the Wimbledon men’s doubles crown to their French Open success.</li><li>2000 : Karnam Malleswari wins Olympic bronze: Malleswari became the first Indian woman to win an Olympic medal.</li><li>2000 : Viswanathan Anand wins FIDE World Championship: Anand became the first Indian and first Asian to win the title.</li><li>2001 : Pullela Gopichand wins All England title: Gopichand became only the second Indian after Padukone to win the prestigious championship.</li><li>2002 : Anju Bobby George wins Asian Games gold: She claimed the women’s long jump title.</li><li>2002 : India wins women’s hockey gold at Commonwealth Games: India secured its first and only Commonwealth Games gold in women’s hockey.</li><li>2003 : Anju Bobby George wins World Championships bronze: She became the first Indian to win a medal at the World Athletics Championships.</li><li>2004 : Rajyavardhan Singh Rathore wins Olympic silver: Rathore won India’s first individual Olympic silver medal in double trap shooting.</li><li>2005 : Pankaj Advani completes billiards World Championship double: Advani became the first player to win both the points and time format world titles in the same year.</li><li>2006 : Samaresh Jung wins seven Commonwealth Games medals: Jung won five gold, one silver and one bronze in Melbourne and also received the inaugural David Dixon Award.</li><li>2007 : India wins inaugural T20 World Cup: MS Dhoni’s team defeated Pakistan in Johannesburg to win the first ICC World Twenty20 title.</li><li>2007 : Viswanathan Anand becomes undisputed World Champion: Anand went on to retain the world title in 2008, 2010 and 2012.</li><li>2008 : Abhinav Bindra wins Olympic gold: Bindra became India’s first individual Olympic champion.</li><li>2009 : Saina Nehwal wins Indonesia Open: She became the first Indian player, male or female, to win a BWF Super Series title.</li><li>2010 : Sushil Kumar wins World Wrestling Championships gold: He became the first Indian to win a World Wrestling Championships title.</li><li>2011 : India wins ODI World Cup: India lifted the trophy for the second time and became the first team to win the tournament on home soil.</li><li>2012 : Saina Nehwal wins Olympic bronze: She became India’s first Olympic badminton medallist.</li><li>2012 : Mary Kom wins Olympic bronze: Kom became India’s first woman boxer to win an Olympic medal.</li><li>2013 : Sachin Tendulkar reaches 100 international centuries: Tendulkar became the first player to score 100 international hundreds, a record that remains unmatched.</li><li>2013 : India wins Champions Trophy: MS Dhoni became the first captain to win all three major ICC limited overs titles.</li><li>2015 : Sania Mirza becomes world No. 1: Mirza became the first Indian woman to reach the top of the WTA women’s doubles rankings.</li><li>2015 : Sania Mirza wins Wimbledon: Mirza became the first Indian woman to win a Grand Slam doubles title.</li><li>2016 : Sakshi Malik wins Olympic bronze: Malik became India’s first female Olympic wrestling medallist.</li><li>&nbsp;2016 : PV Sindhu wins Olympic silver: Sindhu became the first Indian woman to win an individual Olympic silver medal.</li><li>2018 : Neeraj Chopra wins Asian Games javelin gold: Chopra became the first Indian to win men’s javelin gold at the Asian Games.</li><li>2018 : Vinesh Phogat wins Asian Games wrestling gold: She became the first Indian woman to win an Asian Games wrestling gold, claiming the 50kg freestyle title.</li><li>2019 : PV Sindhu wins World Championships gold: Sindhu became the first Indian badminton player to win a world singles title.</li><li>2021 : Neeraj Chopra wins Olympic javelin gold: Chopra delivered India’s first Olympic athletics gold and first ever track and field gold.</li><li>2022 : India wins maiden Thomas Cup: India defeated 14 time champions Indonesia to win the men’s badminton team world championship for the first time.</li><li>2023 : Satwik and Chirag win Asian Games gold: Satwiksairaj Rankireddy and Chirag Shetty won India’s first Asian Games badminton men’s doubles gold.</li><li>&nbsp;2023 : Neeraj Chopra wins World Championships gold: Chopra became India’s first world champion in athletics.</li><li>2024 : India wins T20 World Cup: India defeated South Africa in the final to claim its second men’s T20 World Cup title.</li><li>2024 : D. Gukesh becomes youngest World Chess Champion: At 18, Gukesh defeated Ding Liren 7.5 6.5 to become the youngest world champion in chess history.</li><li>2025 : India wins first Women’s ODI World Cup: India defeated South Africa by 52 runs to claim its maiden Women’s ODI World Cup title.</li><li>2025 : India wins Champions Trophy: India defeated New Zealand by four wickets to become the first team to win the tournament three times.</li><li>2026 : India wins third men’s T20 World Cup: India became the most successful team in the tournament’s history and the first to successfully defend the title.</li><li>2026 : India wins first Commonwealth Games judo gold medals: Asmita Dey and Harsh Singh created history by winning India’s first ever Commonwealth Games judo gold medals in Glasgow.</li></ul>

As India celebrates its 80th Independence Day, here’s a look back at the sporting achievements that reflect the country’s remarkable journey and progress.

India’s sporting story since Independence has been marked by determination, historic breakthroughs, remarkable comebacks and champions who have inspired millions. From hockey’s dominance in the early years to major achievements in cricket, athletics, badminton, wrestling, shooting, boxing, chess and other sports, India has steadily strengthened its presence on the global sporting stage. As India celebrates its 80th year of Independence, here is a look at some of the country’s biggest sporting milestones: 1948 : India wins Olympic hockey gold: Independent India won its first Olympic medal as the men’s hockey team claimed gold at the London Games. 1951 : India wins Asian Games football gold: India became football champions at the first Asian Games, held in New Delhi. 1952 : KD Jadhav wins Olympic bronze: Jadhav became the first Indian to win an individual Olympic medal after securing bronze in wrestling at the Helsinki Games. 1956 : India reaches Olympic football semi-finals: India finished fourth at the Melbourne Olympics, which remains the country’s best Olympic football finish. 1956 : India wins Olympic hockey gold: India defeated Pakistan in the final in Melbourne to retain the hockey title. 1958 : Milkha Singh wins Commonwealth Games gold: Singh won the 440 yard race in Cardiff, becoming independent India’s first Commonwealth Games athletics gold medallist. 1958 : Lila Ram wins Commonwealth Games wrestling gold: Ram became the first Indian wrestler to win gold at the Commonwealth Games. 1958 : Milkha Singh wins two Asian Games golds: He topped the podium in the 200m and 400m events. 1960 : Milkha Singh finishes fourth in Olympic 400m: Singh narrowly missed a medal in Rome, finishing fourth in one of India’s finest Olympic athletics performances. 1962 : India wins Asian Games football gold: India defeated South Korea in the Jakarta final to claim its second Asian Games football title. 1964 : India wins Olympic hockey gold: India defeated Pakistan in the Tokyo final to secure another Olympic hockey title. 1966 : India wins Asian Games hockey gold: India claimed its first Asian Games hockey gold in Bangkok. 1971 : India wins Test series in West Indies and England: Under Ajit Wadekar, India recorded its first Test series victories in both countries in the same year. 1972 : India wins Olympic hockey bronze: India secured its 10th consecutive Olympic hockey medal with bronze at the Munich Games. 1975 : India wins Hockey World Cup: India defeated Pakistan in the final in Kuala Lumpur to claim its first and only Hockey World Cup title. 1980 : India wins eighth Olympic hockey gold: India extended its record by winning an eighth men’s hockey Olympic gold medal. 1983 : India wins maiden ODI World Cup: Kapil Dev’s team stunned defending champions West Indies at Lord’s to win India’s first ODI World Cup. 1984 : PT Usha finishes fourth at Olympics: Usha missed bronze in the 400m hurdles at Los Angeles by just 0.01 seconds. 1985 : Prakash Padukone wins All England title: Padukone became the first Indian to win the prestigious badminton championship. 1986 : PT Usha wins four Asian Games golds: Usha won four gold medals and one silver at the Seoul Asian Games. Also Read - How India broke 'poor traveller' tag to become cricket rulers since independence 1988 : Viswanathan Anand becomes India’s first chess Grandmaster: Anand achieved the feat at the age of 18. 1996 : Leander Paes wins Olympic bronze: Paes won the men’s singles bronze in Atlanta, giving India its first individual Olympic medal in 44 years. 1999 : Paes and Bhupathi win French Open: The Indian duo claimed their first Grand Slam men’s doubles title together. 1999 : Paes and Bhupathi win Wimbledon: The pair added the Wimbledon men’s doubles crown to their French Open success. 2000 : Karnam Malleswari wins Olympic bronze: Malleswari became the first Indian woman to win an Olympic medal. 2000 : Viswanathan Anand wins FIDE World Championship: Anand became the first Indian and first Asian to win the title. 2001 : Pullela Gopichand wins All England title: Gopichand became only the second Indian after Padukone to win the prestigious championship. 2002 : Anju Bobby George wins Asian Games gold: She claimed the women’s long jump title. 2002 : India wins women’s hockey gold at Commonwealth Games: India secured its first and only Commonwealth Games gold in women’s hockey. 2003 : Anju Bobby George wins World Championships bronze: She became the first Indian to win a medal at the World Athletics Championships. 2004 : Rajyavardhan Singh Rathore wins Olympic silver: Rathore won India’s first individual Olympic silver medal in double trap shooting. 2005 : Pankaj Advani completes billiards World Championship double: Advani became the first player to win both the points and time format world titles in the same year. 2006 : Samaresh Jung wins seven Commonwealth Games medals: Jung won five gold, one silver and one bronze in Melbourne and also received the inaugural David Dixon Award. 2007 : India wins inaugural T20 World Cup: MS Dhoni’s team defeated Pakistan in Johannesburg to win the first ICC World Twenty20 title. 2007 : Viswanathan Anand becomes undisputed World Champion: Anand went on to retain the world title in 2008, 2010 and 2012. 2008 : Abhinav Bindra wins Olympic gold: Bindra became India’s first individual Olympic champion. 2009 : Saina Nehwal wins Indonesia Open: She became the first Indian player, male or female, to win a BWF Super Series title. 2010 : Sushil Kumar wins World Wrestling Championships gold: He became the first Indian to win a World Wrestling Championships title. 2011 : India wins ODI World Cup: India lifted the trophy for the second time and became the first team to win the tournament on home soil. 2012 : Saina Nehwal wins Olympic bronze: She became India’s first Olympic badminton medallist. 2012 : Mary Kom wins Olympic bronze: Kom became India’s first woman boxer to win an Olympic medal. 2013 : Sachin Tendulkar reaches 100 international centuries: Tendulkar became the first player to score 100 international hundreds, a record that remains unmatched. 2013 : India wins Champions Trophy: MS Dhoni became the first captain to win all three major ICC limited overs titles. 2015 : Sania Mirza becomes world No. 1: Mirza became the first Indian woman to reach the top of the WTA women’s doubles rankings. 2015 : Sania Mirza wins Wimbledon: Mirza became the first Indian woman to win a Grand Slam doubles title. 2016 : Sakshi Malik wins Olympic bronze: Malik became India’s first female Olympic wrestling medallist. 2016 : PV Sindhu wins Olympic silver: Sindhu became the first Indian woman to win an individual Olympic silver medal. 2018 : Neeraj Chopra wins Asian Games javelin gold: Chopra became the first Indian to win men’s javelin gold at the Asian Games. 2018 : Vinesh Phogat wins Asian Games wrestling gold: She became the first Indian woman to win an Asian Games wrestling gold, claiming the 50kg freestyle title. 2019 : PV Sindhu wins World Championships gold: Sindhu became the first Indian badminton player to win a world singles title. 2021 : Neeraj Chopra wins Olympic javelin gold: Chopra delivered India’s first Olympic athletics gold and first ever track and field gold. 2022 : India wins maiden Thomas Cup: India defeated 14 time champions Indonesia to win the men’s badminton team world championship for the first time. 2023 : Satwik and Chirag win Asian Games gold: Satwiksairaj Rankireddy and Chirag Shetty won India’s first Asian Games badminton men’s doubles gold. 2023 : Neeraj Chopra wins World Championships gold: Chopra became India’s first world champion in athletics. 2024 : India wins T20 World Cup: India defeated South Africa in the final to claim its second men’s T20 World Cup title. 2024 : D. Gukesh becomes youngest World Chess Champion: At 18, Gukesh defeated Ding Liren 7.5 6.5 to become the youngest world champion in chess history. 2025 : India wins first Women’s ODI World Cup: India defeated South Africa by 52 runs to claim its maiden Women’s ODI World Cup title. 2025 : India wins Champions Trophy: India defeated New Zealand by four wickets to become the first team to win the tournament three times. 2026 : India wins third men’s T20 World Cup: India became the most successful team in the tournament’s history and the first to successfully defend the title. 2026 : India wins first Commonwealth Games judo gold medals: Asmita Dey and Harsh Singh created history by winning India’s first ever Commonwealth Games judo gold medals in Glasgow.

As India celebrates its 80th Independence Day, here’s a look back at the sporting achievements that reflect the country’s remarkable journey and progress.

80 years, countless milestones: India’s sporting journey since 1947

There was a time when the world did not associate India with cricket, badminton or athletics. Before those sports produced their own generations of champions, it was hockey that carried the Indian flag across the globe. For decades, the Indian men's hockey team was not merely successful at the Olympics. It was dominant. India won eight Olympic gold medals in hockey, a record that remains unmatched by any team in the sport, along with one silver and three bronze medals. But the most powerful chapter of that story started in 1948.&nbsp;Just one year after India gained Independence, the country arrived at the London Olympics carrying something far bigger than a hockey stick. It was the first Olympics for India as an independent nation, and hockey gave the newly free country the perfect sporting statement. India defeated Great Britain 4-0 in the final to win the gold medal. It was India's first Olympic gold as an independent nation, and the symbolism could hardly have been greater. The former colonial power was beaten on its own soil, while the Indian flag rose above the podium. For a country still finding its identity after Independence and Partition, the victory represented much more than sport.<h2>The dynasty that started before Independence</h2>India's hockey story had already begun before 1947. The team won three consecutive Olympic gold medals at Amsterdam 1928, Los Angeles 1932 and Berlin 1936. Major Dhyan Chand became the defining figure of that era, helping establish Indian hockey as a global force. The 1936 Berlin Games were particularly memorable. India defeated Germany 8-1 in the final, while Dhyan Chand's extraordinary skill helped cement his reputation as one of the greatest players the sport had seen. But Independence changed the meaning of those victories. The hockey team was no longer simply representing British India. It was now representing a sovereign nation. And the first opportunity to demonstrate that came in London in 1948.<h2>London 1948: The gold that belonged to a free India</h2>The 1948 Olympics were held in a world still recovering from the Second World War. For India, the Games came just months after Independence. The team had to navigate the enormous political and social changes that had accompanied Partition. Several players who had been part of India's hockey ecosystem before Independence were now representing Pakistan. Yet the Indian team remained formidable.&nbsp;Led by captain Kishan Lal, India progressed through the tournament and reached the final against Great Britain.The result was emphatic: India won 4-0. That victory became the first Olympic gold medal for independent India.It was the kind of sporting moment that could define a nation. The country had just emerged from colonial rule. Its institutions were still taking shape. Its economy and infrastructure faced enormous challenges. Yet on the Olympic hockey field, India was already a world power.&nbsp;Also Read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/ind-vs-sl-1st-test-padikkal-marks-comeback-with-maiden-international-century-1786793823609">IND vs SL, 1st Test: Padikkal marks comeback with maiden international century</a><h2>The golden run continued</h2>The London triumph was not an isolated moment. India followed it with gold at Helsinki in 1952 and Melbourne in 1956, extending the Olympic winning streak to six consecutive Games from 1928 through 1956. No other team has matched that run in Olympic hockey. The 1952 final produced another iconic performance. Against the Netherlands, India won 6-1, with Balbir Singh Sr. scoring five goals, a record for an individual in an Olympic men's hockey final that remains part of the sport's history.&nbsp;Four years later, India defeated Pakistan 1-0 in the Melbourne final to claim its sixth consecutive Olympic hockey gold.By then, Indian hockey was not simply successful. It was the standard against which the rest of the world measured itself. The team's style, built around close control, dribbling, speed and intricate passing, became synonymous with Indian hockey. The term ‘Indian dribble’ itself emerged from the team's remarkable stick skills.<h2>The end of the streak, and another beginning</h2>India's Olympic dominance eventually faced its biggest challenge. At the 1960 Rome Olympics, Pakistan defeated India 1-0 in the final, ending India's run of six consecutive gold medals. India had to settle for silver. But the setback did not immediately end the golden era. India reclaimed Olympic gold at Tokyo 1964, defeating Pakistan 1-0 in the final.&nbsp;Bronze medals followed at Mexico City 1968 and Munich 1972, before India finished seventh at Montreal 1976.Then came one final Olympic gold. At Moscow 1980, India returned to the top of the podium, winning its eighth and most recent Olympic hockey gold. That triumph marked the final gold medal of India's historic Olympic hockey dynasty.<h2>More than medals</h2>The significance of India's hockey dominance cannot be measured only through its medal tally. Hockey gave generations of Indians sporting heroes at a time when international sporting success was still rare. Dhyan Chand. Balbir Singh Sr. KD Singh Babu. Leslie Claudius. Udham Singh. Prithipal Singh. Charanjit Singh. These were names that represented excellence long before India developed the sporting ecosystem that exists today.&nbsp;The hockey team also helped create an emotional connection between sport and national identity. When India won in London in 1948, the victory carried the weight of a newly independent country. When the team returned to the top in Tokyo in 1964, it reaffirmed India's place among the world's elite. And when India won its eighth Olympic hockey gold in Moscow in 1980, it added another chapter to a legacy that had already stretched across more than five decades.<h2>The long wait for a new Olympic medal</h2>After the 1980 gold, Indian hockey entered a very different era. The team went through decades without another Olympic medal. India even missed the Olympic qualification in 2008, a dramatic low point for a team that had once seemed almost unbeatable. The revival finally came at Tokyo 2020, held in 2021 because of the pandemic, when India won men's hockey bronze.&nbsp;Paris 2024 brought another bronze, giving the men's team back-to-back Olympic medals and signalling that the sport's historic legacy was beginning to find a new generation. The golden age may belong to history, but its influence remains.<h2>The sport that announced India to the world</h2>Today, Indian sport has many faces. Cricket has produced global superstars. Badminton has created Olympic champions. Athletics has given India a historic Olympic gold. Wrestling, shooting, boxing and weightlifting have all produced their own icons. But hockey came first. It was the sport through which generations of Indians learned what it meant to see their country dominate on the world's biggest sporting stage.&nbsp;And perhaps that is why the 1948 London gold remains so special. India had been independent for less than a year. The country was beginning the difficult task of building a new identity. On a hockey field in London, its athletes provided one of the earliest reasons for millions of Indians to look at the world and say: we belong here.&nbsp;That is the enduring legacy of Indian hockey. Not just eight Olympic gold medals. But the sporting identity of a nation.

Explore India's golden era in Olympic hockey, from the historic 1948 London gold to eight Olympic titles and the legacy of India's hockey legends

There was a time when the world did not associate India with cricket, badminton or athletics. Before those sports produced their own generations of champions, it was hockey that carried the Indian flag across the globe. For decades, the Indian men's hockey team was not merely successful at the Olympics. It was dominant. India won eight Olympic gold medals in hockey, a record that remains unmatched by any team in the sport, along with one silver and three bronze medals. But the most powerful chapter of that story started in 1948. Just one year after India gained Independence, the country arrived at the London Olympics carrying something far bigger than a hockey stick. It was the first Olympics for India as an independent nation, and hockey gave the newly free country the perfect sporting statement. India defeated Great Britain 4-0 in the final to win the gold medal. It was India's first Olympic gold as an independent nation, and the symbolism could hardly have been greater. The former colonial power was beaten on its own soil, while the Indian flag rose above the podium. For a country still finding its identity after Independence and Partition, the victory represented much more than sport. The dynasty that started before Independence India's hockey story had already begun before 1947. The team won three consecutive Olympic gold medals at Amsterdam 1928, Los Angeles 1932 and Berlin 1936. Major Dhyan Chand became the defining figure of that era, helping establish Indian hockey as a global force. The 1936 Berlin Games were particularly memorable. India defeated Germany 8-1 in the final, while Dhyan Chand's extraordinary skill helped cement his reputation as one of the greatest players the sport had seen. But Independence changed the meaning of those victories. The hockey team was no longer simply representing British India. It was now representing a sovereign nation. And the first opportunity to demonstrate that came in London in 1948. London 1948: The gold that belonged to a free India The 1948 Olympics were held in a world still recovering from the Second World War. For India, the Games came just months after Independence. The team had to navigate the enormous political and social changes that had accompanied Partition. Several players who had been part of India's hockey ecosystem before Independence were now representing Pakistan. Yet the Indian team remained formidable. Led by captain Kishan Lal, India progressed through the tournament and reached the final against Great Britain. The result was emphatic: India won 4-0. That victory became the first Olympic gold medal for independent India. It was the kind of sporting moment that could define a nation. The country had just emerged from colonial rule. Its institutions were still taking shape. Its economy and infrastructure faced enormous challenges. Yet on the Olympic hockey field, India was already a world power. Also Read: IND vs SL, 1st Test: Padikkal marks comeback with maiden international century The golden run continued The London triumph was not an isolated moment. India followed it with gold at Helsinki in 1952 and Melbourne in 1956, extending the Olympic winning streak to six consecutive Games from 1928 through 1956. No other team has matched that run in Olympic hockey. The 1952 final produced another iconic performance. Against the Netherlands, India won 6-1, with Balbir Singh Sr. scoring five goals, a record for an individual in an Olympic men's hockey final that remains part of the sport's history. Four years later, India defeated Pakistan 1-0 in the Melbourne final to claim its sixth consecutive Olympic hockey gold. By then, Indian hockey was not simply successful. It was the standard against which the rest of the world measured itself. The team's style, built around close control, dribbling, speed and intricate passing, became synonymous with Indian hockey. The term ‘Indian dribble’ itself emerged from the team's remarkable stick skills. The end of the streak, and another beginning India's Olympic dominance eventually faced its biggest challenge. At the 1960 Rome Olympics, Pakistan defeated India 1-0 in the final, ending India's run of six consecutive gold medals. India had to settle for silver. But the setback did not immediately end the golden era. India reclaimed Olympic gold at Tokyo 1964, defeating Pakistan 1-0 in the final. Bronze medals followed at Mexico City 1968 and Munich 1972, before India finished seventh at Montreal 1976. Then came one final Olympic gold. At Moscow 1980, India returned to the top of the podium, winning its eighth and most recent Olympic hockey gold. That triumph marked the final gold medal of India's historic Olympic hockey dynasty. More than medals The significance of India's hockey dominance cannot be measured only through its medal tally. Hockey gave generations of Indians sporting heroes at a time when international sporting success was still rare. Dhyan Chand. Balbir Singh Sr. KD Singh Babu. Leslie Claudius. Udham Singh. Prithipal Singh. Charanjit Singh. These were names that represented excellence long before India developed the sporting ecosystem that exists today. The hockey team also helped create an emotional connection between sport and national identity. When India won in London in 1948, the victory carried the weight of a newly independent country. When the team returned to the top in Tokyo in 1964, it reaffirmed India's place among the world's elite. And when India won its eighth Olympic hockey gold in Moscow in 1980, it added another chapter to a legacy that had already stretched across more than five decades. The long wait for a new Olympic medal After the 1980 gold, Indian hockey entered a very different era. The team went through decades without another Olympic medal. India even missed the Olympic qualification in 2008, a dramatic low point for a team that had once seemed almost unbeatable. The revival finally came at Tokyo 2020, held in 2021 because of the pandemic, when India won men's hockey bronze. Paris 2024 brought another bronze, giving the men's team back-to-back Olympic medals and signalling that the sport's historic legacy was beginning to find a new generation. The golden age may belong to history, but its influence remains. The sport that announced India to the world Today, Indian sport has many faces. Cricket has produced global superstars. Badminton has created Olympic champions. Athletics has given India a historic Olympic gold. Wrestling, shooting, boxing and weightlifting have all produced their own icons. But hockey came first. It was the sport through which generations of Indians learned what it meant to see their country dominate on the world's biggest sporting stage. And perhaps that is why the 1948 London gold remains so special. India had been independent for less than a year. The country was beginning the difficult task of building a new identity. On a hockey field in London, its athletes provided one of the earliest reasons for millions of Indians to look at the world and say: we belong here. That is the enduring legacy of Indian hockey. Not just eight Olympic gold medals. But the sporting identity of a nation.

India's hockey team gave a newly independent nation its first Olympic gold in 1948, beginning a golden era that produced eight Olympic titles

When hockey became India's identity: The Olympic golden era that defined a nation

Devdutt Padikkal scored his maiden Test century on Saturday (Aug 15) as India began their two-Test series against Sri Lanka in Galle. The left-hander reached the three-figure mark in 134 balls, hitting nine fours and one six and also became the first Indian batter since Shubman Gill in 2024 to score a Test century at No. 3. He grabbed the opportunity after regular No. 3 Sai Sudharsan was ruled out of the series with a toe injury.&nbsp;The century came on Padikkal’s return to the Test side after nearly two years. His last Test appearance was in the opening match of the Border-Gavaskar Trophy in Nov 2024.&nbsp;Padikkal entered the series in good form after scoring a century in India’s three-day warm-up game against a Sri Lankan XI at the NCC Ground in Colombo last week.&nbsp;&nbsp;His strong domestic performances and impressive IPL 2026 campaign with champions Royal Challengers Bengaluru also helped him earn the chance.&nbsp;Also Read - <a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/darwin-test-day-3-bangladesh-on-brink-of-historic-win-over-australia-1786789414846">Darwin Test: Shock in store for Australia as Mehidy puts Bangladesh on brink of historic win</a>&nbsp;During the match, he started confidently, hitting a boundary off his first delivery against Keshara Nuwantha. Padikkal remained composed against both pace and spin and looked comfortable on a good batting surface.&nbsp;Also Read - <a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/19-year-old-british-cyclist-finlay-tarling-dies-after-crash-at-volta-a-portugal-1786788855390">19-year-old British cyclist Finlay Tarling dies after crash at Volta a Portugal</a>&nbsp;He also shared a 150-run partnership with KL Rahul from 255 balls. Rahul retired hurt after scoring 77 following the tea break.&nbsp;Padikkal celebrated his century by punching the air, while India head coach Gautam Gambhir applauded from the dressing room.&nbsp;India are aiming to win the series in Sri Lanka and strengthen their position in the race for the World Test Championship final.

Devdutt Padikkal scored his maiden Test century against Sri Lanka on Day 1 in Galle, ending India’s two-year wait for a hundred at No. 3 after Sai Sudharsan’s injury opened up the spot.

Devdutt Padikkal scored his maiden Test century on Saturday (Aug 15) as India began their two-Test series against Sri Lanka in Galle. The left-hander reached the three-figure mark in 134 balls, hitting nine fours and one six and also became the first Indian batter since Shubman Gill in 2024 to score a Test century at No. 3. He grabbed the opportunity after regular No. 3 Sai Sudharsan was ruled out of the series with a toe injury. The century came on Padikkal’s return to the Test side after nearly two years. His last Test appearance was in the opening match of the Border-Gavaskar Trophy in Nov 2024. Padikkal entered the series in good form after scoring a century in India’s three-day warm-up game against a Sri Lankan XI at the NCC Ground in Colombo last week. His strong domestic performances and impressive IPL 2026 campaign with champions Royal Challengers Bengaluru also helped him earn the chance. Also Read - Darwin Test: Shock in store for Australia as Mehidy puts Bangladesh on brink of historic win During the match, he started confidently, hitting a boundary off his first delivery against Keshara Nuwantha. Padikkal remained composed against both pace and spin and looked comfortable on a good batting surface. Also Read - 19-year-old British cyclist Finlay Tarling dies after crash at Volta a Portugal He also shared a 150-run partnership with KL Rahul from 255 balls. Rahul retired hurt after scoring 77 following the tea break. Padikkal celebrated his century by punching the air, while India head coach Gautam Gambhir applauded from the dressing room. India are aiming to win the series in Sri Lanka and strengthen their position in the race for the World Test Championship final.

Devdutt Padikkal scored his maiden Test century against Sri Lanka on Day 1 in Galle, ending India’s two-year wait for a hundred at No. 3 after Sai Sudharsan’s injury opened up the spot.

IND vs SL, 1st Test: Padikkal marks comeback with maiden international century

British cyclist Finlay Tarling died on Friday after a fatal incident during the eighth stage of the Volta a Portugal. The 19-year-old Welsh rider was representing the NSN Development Team when the accident happened during the 166.8-kilometre stage from Melgaco to Fafe.&nbsp;Tarling was known as a time-trial specialist and joined the NSN Development Team last year. He had also represented Great Britain in road and track cycling and was the younger brother of Ineos rider Josh Tarling.&nbsp;The NSN Development Team confirmed his death in a statement, saying: “We are heartbroken to announce the passing of Finlay Tarling at the Volta a Portugal today.”&nbsp;“Fin was a much-loved member of our team but most importantly, he was a son, a brother and a friend to so many. He will be deeply missed.”&nbsp;Race organisers and the Portuguese Cycling Federation also offered their condolences to Tarling’s family, teammates and friends.&nbsp;Also Read - <a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/darwin-test-day-3-bangladesh-on-brink-of-historic-win-over-australia-1786789414846">Darwin Test: Shock in store for Australia as Mehidy puts Bangladesh on brink of historic win</a><h3>Race halted after tragedy</h3>The eighth stage was stopped after the incident as a mark of respect. The organisers said, “The organisation of the Volta a Portugal and the Portuguese Cycling Federation express their most heartfelt condolences to the family of Finlay Tarling, to his teammates, to the NSN Development Team, and to all his friends and loved ones.”&nbsp;Also Read - <a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/aus-vs-ban-hazlewood-achieves-300-wicket-milestone-in-tests-1786786083098">AUS vs BAN: Hazlewood achieves 300-wicket milestone in Tests</a>&nbsp;The race was neutralised until Fafe, while the planned podium ceremony was cancelled.&nbsp;According to local reports, Tarling was hit by a vehicle that had entered the race route. Major Tiago Machado of Portugal’s National Republican Guard said the incident involved a collision between the cyclist and a light goods vehicle.&nbsp;An investigation is underway to determine the exact circumstances of the crash.

The 19-year-old British cyclist died following a serious crash during the eighth stage of the Tour of Portugal, prompting organisers to suspend the race.

British cyclist Finlay Tarling died on Friday after a fatal incident during the eighth stage of the Volta a Portugal. The 19-year-old Welsh rider was representing the NSN Development Team when the accident happened during the 166.8-kilometre stage from Melgaco to Fafe. Tarling was known as a time-trial specialist and joined the NSN Development Team last year. He had also represented Great Britain in road and track cycling and was the younger brother of Ineos rider Josh Tarling. The NSN Development Team confirmed his death in a statement, saying: “We are heartbroken to announce the passing of Finlay Tarling at the Volta a Portugal today.” “Fin was a much-loved member of our team but most importantly, he was a son, a brother and a friend to so many. He will be deeply missed.” Race organisers and the Portuguese Cycling Federation also offered their condolences to Tarling’s family, teammates and friends. Also Read - Darwin Test: Shock in store for Australia as Mehidy puts Bangladesh on brink of historic win Race halted after tragedy The eighth stage was stopped after the incident as a mark of respect. The organisers said, “The organisation of the Volta a Portugal and the Portuguese Cycling Federation express their most heartfelt condolences to the family of Finlay Tarling, to his teammates, to the NSN Development Team, and to all his friends and loved ones.” Also Read - AUS vs BAN: Hazlewood achieves 300-wicket milestone in Tests The race was neutralised until Fafe, while the planned podium ceremony was cancelled. According to local reports, Tarling was hit by a vehicle that had entered the race route. Major Tiago Machado of Portugal’s National Republican Guard said the incident involved a collision between the cyclist and a light goods vehicle. An investigation is underway to determine the exact circumstances of the crash.

The 19-year-old British cyclist died following a serious crash during the eighth stage of the Tour of Portugal, prompting organisers to suspend the race.

19-year-old British cyclist Finlay Tarling dies after crash at Volta a Portugal

Mehidy Hasan Miraz picked up the key wicket of veteran Steve Smith to reduce the hosts to 161 for four at stumps on day three in Darwin. As Australia trail by 67 runs in their second innings with six wickets remaining, they sit on the back foot, staring at a shock home defeat against Bangladesh – a nation they are yet to lose to in Tests at home. Cameron Green and Alex Carey are at the crease, with the lanky all-rounder batting on 43. &nbsp;After being dismissed for 426 shortly after lunch, Bangladesh seamer Hasan Mahmud stunned Australia by removing both openers cheaply. Hasan, who took a career-best 6-55 in the first innings, bowled Jake Weatherald (0) and Travis Head (17) identically, with the two chopping on to their stumps.

<blockquote class="twitter-tweet">&quot;I&#39;ve never seen that in all my cricketing career.&quot; Travis Head chopped on for a second time in this match, but his considerate move even caught Adam Gilchrist off guard. <a href="https://x.com/hashtag/AUSvBAN?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#AUSvBAN</a> <a href="https://t.co/LEKgbtbshq">pic.twitter.com/LEKgbtbshq</a>&mdash; cricket.com.au (@cricketcomau) <a href="https://x.com/cricketcomau/status/2088487580853580141?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">August 15, 2026</a></blockquote> <script async src="https://platform.x.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script>

On a good batting strip, Marnus Labuschagne and Smith initially steadied the ship, before Labuschagne, who has been out of form, played over the top of a straight ball from left-arm spinner Taijul Islam and was bowled. Smith, so often Australia's saviour in such conditions, batted sensibly to start with. As the scoreboard reached 122, he got a leading edge to off-spinner Mehidy and chipped it straight back to the bowler. &nbsp;"The way we showed character and the way we played for the last two or three days was outstanding," visiting captain Najmul Hossain Shanto told Fox Sports. "We are taking it session by session, focusing on the process and not the outcome." &nbsp;Earlier, the Bangladeshi all-rounder Mehidy did the damage with the bat, scoring a valuable half-century in Bangladesh's first innings.&nbsp;Also read| <a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/how-indian-cricket-dismantled-poor-traveler-reputation-1786784382087">How India broke the 'poor traveller' tag to become cricket rulers since independence</a> &nbsp;After Bangladesh were well beaten by a Cricket Australia XI in their only warm-up match, including being bowled out for 54 in the second innings, many expected this Test to be an easy Australia victory. But the unfancied visitors bowled the hosts out for 198 on the first day and then showed great dedication with the bat to keep the hosts out in the field for 138 overs. &nbsp;Mehidy shielded the lower order brilliantly in the morning session to frustrate a tiring Australian attack. When he was finally dismissed for 65 by Josh Hazlewood shortly after lunch, he had helped put his team into a strong position halfway through the match. &nbsp;Bangladesh are attempting to win a Test in Australia for the first time, at the third attempt.&nbsp;(With inputs from AFP)

Bangladesh stand on the brink of a historic first Test win in Australia as Mehidy Hasan Miraz and Hasan Mahmud leave the hosts 161/4 at stumps on Day 3 in Darwin.

Mehidy Hasan Miraz picked up the key wicket of veteran Steve Smith to reduce the hosts to 161 for four at stumps on day three in Darwin. As Australia trail by 67 runs in their second innings with six wickets remaining, they sit on the back foot, staring at a shock home defeat against Bangladesh – a nation they are yet to lose to in Tests at home. Cameron Green and Alex Carey are at the crease, with the lanky all-rounder batting on 43. After being dismissed for 426 shortly after lunch, Bangladesh seamer Hasan Mahmud stunned Australia by removing both openers cheaply. Hasan, who took a career-best 6-55 in the first innings, bowled Jake Weatherald (0) and Travis Head (17) identically, with the two chopping on to their stumps.

Bangladesh stand on the brink of a historic first Test win in Australia as Mehidy Hasan Miraz and Hasan Mahmud leave the hosts 161/4 at stumps on Day 3 in Darwin.

Darwin Test: Shock in store for Australia as Mehidy puts Bangladesh on brink of historic win

Josh Hazlewood became the ninth Australian bowler to take 300 Test wickets after claiming 6/89 against Bangladesh in the first Test in Darwin. The 35-year-old reached the milestone on day three at Marrara Stadium as Bangladesh were dismissed for 426. He came into the match needing five wickets and achieved the landmark in his first Test since Jul last year.&nbsp;Hazlewood dismissed Bangladesh all-rounder Mehidy Hasan Miraz for his 300th Test wicket before ending the innings with Ebadot Hossain’s dismissal, registering his 14th five-wicket haul and fourth six-wicket performance in Tests. His previous six-wicket haul came against India in Bengaluru in 2017, when he took 6/67.&nbsp;Hazlewood had to work hard on a pitch offering little assistance and could have struck earlier, but Nathan Lyon dropped Tanzid Hasan during his opening spell before the batter went on to score 101.&nbsp;Hazlewood later dismissed Mominul Haque on the second morning to break a key partnership before removing Najmul Hossain Shanto for 84 with the second new ball.&nbsp;He continued to bowl with discipline in the Darwin heat, dismissing Hasan Mahmud lbw and Taijul Islam after getting extra bounce.&nbsp;His place in the team was not certain before the match, as he had played only six of Australia’s previous 14 Tests and missed the last 12 months due to an Achilles injury. His absence gave Scott Boland a chance to push for a regular place.&nbsp;Also Read - <a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/how-indian-cricket-dismantled-poor-traveler-reputation-1786784382087">How India broke the 'poor traveller' tag to become cricket rulers since independence</a>&nbsp;With this milestone, Hazlewood joined Nathan Lyon, Mitchell Starc and Pat Cummins in Australia’s 300-wicket club, making them the first four bowlers in Test history to play together after each had taken more than 300 wickets.&nbsp;Also Read - <a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/ind-vs-sl-1st-test-toss-playing-xi-galle-1786767124868">IND vs SL 1st Test: India win toss and opt to bat in Galle; Padikkal back in XI</a>&nbsp;Speaking after stumps, Hazlewood said: “You don’t really think about those sort of milestones when you’re playing,” he told Kayo Sports.&nbsp;&nbsp;“I guess it’s probably something you look back on at the end. But just to see the other names there, and playing alongside three of them-it’s pretty cool.”&nbsp;Bangladesh’s 426 gave them a 228-run lead after Australia were bowled out for 198.&nbsp;“They hung in there tough,” Hazlewood added. “It was hard work out there on that track. We stuck it out and didn’t let the runs flow too quickly at the end, but Bangladesh played well and made it tough to get wickets.”

Josh Hazlewood made a strong return from injury, claiming 6/89 against Bangladesh in Darwin to become the ninth Australian bowler to reach 300 Test wickets.

Josh Hazlewood became the ninth Australian bowler to take 300 Test wickets after claiming 6/89 against Bangladesh in the first Test in Darwin. The 35-year-old reached the milestone on day three at Marrara Stadium as Bangladesh were dismissed for 426. He came into the match needing five wickets and achieved the landmark in his first Test since Jul last year. Hazlewood dismissed Bangladesh all-rounder Mehidy Hasan Miraz for his 300th Test wicket before ending the innings with Ebadot Hossain’s dismissal, registering his 14th five-wicket haul and fourth six-wicket performance in Tests. His previous six-wicket haul came against India in Bengaluru in 2017, when he took 6/67. Hazlewood had to work hard on a pitch offering little assistance and could have struck earlier, but Nathan Lyon dropped Tanzid Hasan during his opening spell before the batter went on to score 101. Hazlewood later dismissed Mominul Haque on the second morning to break a key partnership before removing Najmul Hossain Shanto for 84 with the second new ball. He continued to bowl with discipline in the Darwin heat, dismissing Hasan Mahmud lbw and Taijul Islam after getting extra bounce. His place in the team was not certain before the match, as he had played only six of Australia’s previous 14 Tests and missed the last 12 months due to an Achilles injury. His absence gave Scott Boland a chance to push for a regular place. Also Read - How India broke the 'poor traveller' tag to become cricket rulers since independence With this milestone, Hazlewood joined Nathan Lyon, Mitchell Starc and Pat Cummins in Australia’s 300-wicket club, making them the first four bowlers in Test history to play together after each had taken more than 300 wickets. Also Read - IND vs SL 1st Test: India win toss and opt to bat in Galle; Padikkal back in XI Speaking after stumps, Hazlewood said: “You don’t really think about those sort of milestones when you’re playing,” he told Kayo Sports. “I guess it’s probably something you look back on at the end. But just to see the other names there, and playing alongside three of them-it’s pretty cool.” Bangladesh’s 426 gave them a 228-run lead after Australia were bowled out for 198. “They hung in there tough,” Hazlewood added. “It was hard work out there on that track. We stuck it out and didn’t let the runs flow too quickly at the end, but Bangladesh played well and made it tough to get wickets.”

Josh Hazlewood made a strong return from injury, claiming 6/89 against Bangladesh in Darwin to become the ninth Australian bowler to reach 300 Test wickets.

AUS vs BAN: Hazlewood achieves 300-wicket milestone in Tests

For decades, Indian Cricket was defined by a sharp dichotomy: almost unbeatable at home on the rank turners, but vulnerable against raw pace, seam and swinging conditions abroad. Here is how India dismantled that reputation step-by-step to become global match-winners. &nbsp;<ul><li>The Early Overseas Struggles (1947–1970) &nbsp;</li></ul>For the first few years since gaining independence, India’s away tours meant gruelling time in England, Australia and the West Indies. The unfamiliar bouncy pitches, lack of seaming conditions and, importantly, inadequate player allowances led to heavy and regular defeats on foreign soil. &nbsp;<ul><li>70s and Breakthroughs in West Indies &amp; England &nbsp;</li></ul>Ajit Wadekar-led Indian Test team finally tasted success on away tours, with India beating England in England and the West Indies in the Caribbean in the same year (1971). The original ‘Little Master’ Sunil Gavaskar emerged on the scene, and alongside BS Chandrasekhar’s magical spells, India proved they could win a Test series outside Asia. &nbsp;<ul><li>1983 World Cup Triumph on Foreign Soil &nbsp;</li></ul>Team India doing the unthinkable, that too against the mighty West Indies and on foreign soil, was never on anyone’s card. Kapil Dev’s men clinched the ODI World Cup, which fundamentally altered how foreign teams perceived Indian resilience in white-ball cricket. &nbsp;<ul><li>Ganguly Era and Aggressive Blueprint &nbsp;</li></ul>Enter Sourav Ganguly, the captain. His promotion from being a batting mainstay to the leader of the side changed Indian cricket’s dynamics forever. Under Ganguly, not only did India begin to win on away tours, especially against challenging teams like Australia, the West Indies, New Zealand and even South Africa, but they also started playing with more confidence, pushing the opposition to play without taking them for granted. Rahul Dravid’s era followed, and India won three away tours in his captaincy, placing them amongst the top cricketing nations in the world.&nbsp; &nbsp;<ul><li>MS Dhoni, IPL and Money &nbsp;</li></ul>Keeper–batter MS Dhoni took over India captaincy, and won the inaugural T20 World Cup in 2007 in South Africa – a win that gave birth to the cash-rich Indian Premier League (IPL). Not only did it bring mind-boggling money, glitz, Bollywood and entertainment all compounding with cricket’s shortest version, but also international superstars into the Indian dressing rooms. With that, the young players lost their awe of foreign cricketers, while the BCCI and its growing financial power guaranteed world-class travel, recovery and support staff for away tours. &nbsp;<ul><li>Indian Cricket under Kohli and Shastri &nbsp;</li></ul>The face of modern-day Indian cricket, Virat Kohli and head coach Ravi Shastri, changed the team’s attitude and made fast bowling enjoyable all over again. India won two tours Down Under, something India never achieved before, and broke the sole dependency on the spin attack. The rise of pacers, including Jasprit Bumrah, Mohammed Shami, Ishant Sharma, and Mohammed Siraj, put India at the forefront of world domination.&nbsp;Meanwhile, conquering Australia back-to-back, including breaching Australia's fortress at the Gabba on the 2020/21 tour, despite severe injuries, permanently erased the "poor traveller" tag. &nbsp;<ul><li>Dominance across All Formats &amp; Continents&nbsp; &nbsp;</li></ul>Beating South Africa in South Africa and England in England on white-ball tours, compounding it with Test wins at Lord’s, Oval, Centurion, and Melbourne, India evolved into a team capable of winning on green tops, bouncy tracks, or dry pitches alike.

Explore how Indian cricket shed its "poor traveler" tag, evolving from home-soil specialists into a global powerhouse capable of winning in all conditions.

For decades, Indian Cricket was defined by a sharp dichotomy: almost unbeatable at home on the rank turners, but vulnerable against raw pace, seam and swinging conditions abroad. Here is how India dismantled that reputation step-by-step to become global match-winners. The Early Overseas Struggles (1947–1970) For the first few years since gaining independence, India’s away tours meant gruelling time in England, Australia and the West Indies. The unfamiliar bouncy pitches, lack of seaming conditions and, importantly, inadequate player allowances led to heavy and regular defeats on foreign soil. 70s and Breakthroughs in West Indies & England Ajit Wadekar-led Indian Test team finally tasted success on away tours, with India beating England in England and the West Indies in the Caribbean in the same year (1971). The original ‘Little Master’ Sunil Gavaskar emerged on the scene, and alongside BS Chandrasekhar’s magical spells, India proved they could win a Test series outside Asia. 1983 World Cup Triumph on Foreign Soil Team India doing the unthinkable, that too against the mighty West Indies and on foreign soil, was never on anyone’s card. Kapil Dev’s men clinched the ODI World Cup, which fundamentally altered how foreign teams perceived Indian resilience in white-ball cricket. Ganguly Era and Aggressive Blueprint Enter Sourav Ganguly, the captain. His promotion from being a batting mainstay to the leader of the side changed Indian cricket’s dynamics forever. Under Ganguly, not only did India begin to win on away tours, especially against challenging teams like Australia, the West Indies, New Zealand and even South Africa, but they also started playing with more confidence, pushing the opposition to play without taking them for granted. Rahul Dravid’s era followed, and India won three away tours in his captaincy, placing them amongst the top cricketing nations in the world. MS Dhoni, IPL and Money Keeper–batter MS Dhoni took over India captaincy, and won the inaugural T20 World Cup in 2007 in South Africa – a win that gave birth to the cash-rich Indian Premier League (IPL). Not only did it bring mind-boggling money, glitz, Bollywood and entertainment all compounding with cricket’s shortest version, but also international superstars into the Indian dressing rooms. With that, the young players lost their awe of foreign cricketers, while the BCCI and its growing financial power guaranteed world-class travel, recovery and support staff for away tours. Indian Cricket under Kohli and Shastri The face of modern-day Indian cricket, Virat Kohli and head coach Ravi Shastri, changed the team’s attitude and made fast bowling enjoyable all over again. India won two tours Down Under, something India never achieved before, and broke the sole dependency on the spin attack. The rise of pacers, including Jasprit Bumrah, Mohammed Shami, Ishant Sharma, and Mohammed Siraj, put India at the forefront of world domination. Meanwhile, conquering Australia back-to-back, including breaching Australia's fortress at the Gabba on the 2020/21 tour, despite severe injuries, permanently erased the "poor traveller" tag. Dominance across All Formats & Continents Beating South Africa in South Africa and England in England on white-ball tours, compounding it with Test wins at Lord’s, Oval, Centurion, and Melbourne, India evolved into a team capable of winning on green tops, bouncy tracks, or dry pitches alike.

Explore how Indian cricket shed its "poor traveler" tag, evolving from home-soil specialists into a global powerhouse capable of winning in all conditions.

How India broke the 'poor traveller' tag to become cricket rulers since independence

India celebrates its 80th Independence Day on August 15, and we look at seven unforgettable moments that shaped the country’s sporting identity forever. From India’s first Olympic medal in 1952 to Kapil Dev’s men beating West Indies to clinch the unthinkable, here are seven defining moments.

India celebrates its 80th Independence Day on August 15, and we look at seven unforgettable moments that shaped the country’s sporting identity forever. From India’s first Olympic medal in 1952 to Kapil Dev’s men beating West Indies to clinch the unthinkable, here are seven defining moments.

7 unforgettable moments that redefined India's sporting identity forever

As India celebrates its 80th Independence Day on Saturday (Aug 15), we take a look and cherish how, with a fundamental shift in mindset from just being happy to qualify to acquiring global dominance in several sports, they have come far since gaining independence. From cricket and chess to javelin and boxing, Indian athletes are redefining boundaries on the world stage. From individual brilliance to dynamite teamwork, the Indians have gained name and fame in the world of sports. Here, we will understand how.<h2>7 factors that shifted India’s mindset and changed its sporting ecosystem &nbsp;</h2><ol><li>The Isolated Outliers (1952–1990s) - Beyond the hockey field, where the Indian men's team never let any team come near its Olympic gold medal tally, even today, success mostly relied on the shoulders of individual stars. Be it K.D. Jadhav’s 1952 Olympic bronze in wrestling or Prakash Padukone’s 1980 All England in badminton, India’s equivalent to success was mere participation and rare title wins during that period. &nbsp;&nbsp; &nbsp;</li><li>1983 World Cup Win that Changed India’s Sporting Stance - Merely 36 years after gaining independence from British rule, a moment came that changed the world's perspective towards India in sports, particularly cricket. Mostly known for its handful of individual performers, India needed to win the Prudential World Cup in 1983, and against all odds, to make a space for itself in the cricket world. And Kapil Dev’s India did just that, defeating the defending champions and two-time winners, West Indies, in the World Cup final to realise their dream. &nbsp;</li><li>Ending Olympic Medal Drought - While Sachin Tendulkar had emerged on the international scene after India’s historic World Cup win, the country had not tasted major success until Leander Paes’ Olympic medal in the 1996 edition. Four years later in Sydney, Karnam Malleswari broke all stereotypes to become the first Indian woman athlete to win an Olympic medal, proving that individual success can be achieved beyond the hockey field. &nbsp;</li><li>Bindra’s Historic Gold Aced India’s Olympic Game - Even though India won several individual Olympic medals in the past decade and continues to do so in the recent games, it all began with Abhinav Bindra’s gold medal in shooting during the 2008 Beijing Summer Games. That one win alone injected confidence in athletes across disciplines and all age groups that India can dream of more gold at the Olympics. &nbsp;</li><li>Grassroots Systemisation and Influx of International Coaches - The late 2000s and early 2010s prioritised grassroots systemisation in the country, with government programs like TOPS (Target Olympic Podium Scheme) alongside private foundations (OGQ, JSW Sports) providing world-class foreign coaching, elite sports science, and international exposure to budding athletes. Even programs like Khelo India decentralised talent discovery beyond metro cities, building ecosystems in tier-two and tier-three towns that previously lacked elite infrastructure. &nbsp;</li><li>The Age of World Champions - Years later, India unlocked the age of world champions, with boxers, wrestlers, track and field athletes and javelin throwers, including Neeraj Chopra’s historic feats before and after his Olympic gold in the Tokyo Games, making headlines all over. World-class infrastructure, elite training and access to top facilities unearthed world champions across disciplines, making India proud worldwide. &nbsp;</li><li>Elite Professional Mindset - Indian athletes across any sport fear none. Trained and ready to own their respective disciplines, Indian sport stars have begun aiming for the sky, with a sea of talent coming through the grassroots. This shift in mindset from being just happy to qualify to claiming world dominance reflects India’s sporting scene 80 years since independence.&nbsp;</li></ol>

On India’s 80th Independence Day, explore 7 key factors that transformed Indian sports from being content to qualify to achieving global dominance.

As India celebrates its 80th Independence Day on Saturday (Aug 15), we take a look and cherish how, with a fundamental shift in mindset from just being happy to qualify to acquiring global dominance in several sports, they have come far since gaining independence. From cricket and chess to javelin and boxing, Indian athletes are redefining boundaries on the world stage. From individual brilliance to dynamite teamwork, the Indians have gained name and fame in the world of sports. Here, we will understand how. 7 factors that shifted India’s mindset and changed its sporting ecosystem The Isolated Outliers (1952–1990s) - Beyond the hockey field, where the Indian men's team never let any team come near its Olympic gold medal tally, even today, success mostly relied on the shoulders of individual stars. Be it K.D. Jadhav’s 1952 Olympic bronze in wrestling or Prakash Padukone’s 1980 All England in badminton, India’s equivalent to success was mere participation and rare title wins during that period. 1983 World Cup Win that Changed India’s Sporting Stance - Merely 36 years after gaining independence from British rule, a moment came that changed the world's perspective towards India in sports, particularly cricket. Mostly known for its handful of individual performers, India needed to win the Prudential World Cup in 1983, and against all odds, to make a space for itself in the cricket world. And Kapil Dev’s India did just that, defeating the defending champions and two-time winners, West Indies, in the World Cup final to realise their dream. Ending Olympic Medal Drought - While Sachin Tendulkar had emerged on the international scene after India’s historic World Cup win, the country had not tasted major success until Leander Paes’ Olympic medal in the 1996 edition. Four years later in Sydney, Karnam Malleswari broke all stereotypes to become the first Indian woman athlete to win an Olympic medal, proving that individual success can be achieved beyond the hockey field. Bindra’s Historic Gold Aced India’s Olympic Game - Even though India won several individual Olympic medals in the past decade and continues to do so in the recent games, it all began with Abhinav Bindra’s gold medal in shooting during the 2008 Beijing Summer Games. That one win alone injected confidence in athletes across disciplines and all age groups that India can dream of more gold at the Olympics. Grassroots Systemisation and Influx of International Coaches - The late 2000s and early 2010s prioritised grassroots systemisation in the country, with government programs like TOPS (Target Olympic Podium Scheme) alongside private foundations (OGQ, JSW Sports) providing world-class foreign coaching, elite sports science, and international exposure to budding athletes. Even programs like Khelo India decentralised talent discovery beyond metro cities, building ecosystems in tier-two and tier-three towns that previously lacked elite infrastructure. The Age of World Champions - Years later, India unlocked the age of world champions, with boxers, wrestlers, track and field athletes and javelin throwers, including Neeraj Chopra’s historic feats before and after his Olympic gold in the Tokyo Games, making headlines all over. World-class infrastructure, elite training and access to top facilities unearthed world champions across disciplines, making India proud worldwide. Elite Professional Mindset - Indian athletes across any sport fear none. Trained and ready to own their respective disciplines, Indian sport stars have begun aiming for the sky, with a sea of talent coming through the grassroots. This shift in mindset from being just happy to qualify to claiming world dominance reflects India’s sporting scene 80 years since independence.

On India’s 80th Independence Day, explore 7 key factors that transformed Indian sports from being content to qualify to achieving global dominance.

The Golden Mindset: How India traded 'happy to qualify' for global sporting dominance

Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi reiterated India’s interest and willingness to host the 2036 Summer Olympic Games. Speaking on India’s 80th Independence Day at the Red Fort in New Delhi on Saturday (Aug 15), PM Modi also announced a need for a nationwide talent hunt for sports. Stressing the need to widen India’s Olympic footprint by identifying and nurturing raw talent from villages and cities across the country, Modi noted with regret that India doesn’t even participate in two-thirds of around 40 disciplines at the Olympic Games. &nbsp;“There are around 40 sports at the Olympics, with around 325 to 350 events. You will be saddened to know, my fellow countrymen, my young people, I challenge you, I appeal to you, I seek your help: India does not participate in even two-thirds of these sports. We are not present; we do not qualify,” PM Modi said during his address to the nation on India’s 80th Independence Day.&nbsp;Also read| <a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/very-big-honour-shubman-gill-on-leading-india-in-historic-600th-test-1786713341834">'Very big honour': Shubman Gill on leading India in historic 600th Test</a> &nbsp;Emphasising the need to excel in sports where India currently lacks a footprint, PM Modi urged a sharp shift in focus.&nbsp; &nbsp;"We have decided that the 2036 Olympics should be held in India. But in 2036, in the disciplines in which India does not play today, in the disciplines in which India does not qualify, in the events that India has left aside, three-fourths of them are waiting for us. India will focus on them, and for this, we are also running a talent identification campaign. &nbsp;“If we need athletes for 2036, then today, a talent hunt campaign will be conducted from village to village, city to city, school to school, to identify sporting talent. We have to focus on the children between the ages of five and fifteen, on our daughters. Their abilities will be assessed, and they will then receive specialised training to develop them into good athletes who can represent the country,” he continued.<h2>TOPS a Massive Success: PM Modi</h2>As India readies to host the 2030 Commonwealth Games, 20 years since last hosting it, PM Modi shed light on the bigger picture: the Olympics. Revealing how the government’s flagship Target Olympic Podium Scheme (TOPS) has been a massive success in providing support to the athletes, Modi said, &nbsp;"India is making space for itself in the world of sports. We hear our national anthem frequently and see our tricolour going up very often. TOPS has achieved great success. Whether it is Khelo India Games, University Games, Beach Games, Winter Games, or sports training, sports medicine, sports nutrition, India is moving ahead at a great pace.&nbsp; &nbsp;"India's performance is improving, and we are strong contenders to become an Olympic host in 2036. We are hosting the CWG in 2030," PM Modi noted.&nbsp;

PM Narendra Modi announced a nationwide sports talent hunt during his 80th Independence Day address, setting sights on India hosting the 2036 Olympic Games.

Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi reiterated India’s interest and willingness to host the 2036 Summer Olympic Games. Speaking on India’s 80th Independence Day at the Red Fort in New Delhi on Saturday (Aug 15), PM Modi also announced a need for a nationwide talent hunt for sports. Stressing the need to widen India’s Olympic footprint by identifying and nurturing raw talent from villages and cities across the country, Modi noted with regret that India doesn’t even participate in two-thirds of around 40 disciplines at the Olympic Games. “There are around 40 sports at the Olympics, with around 325 to 350 events. You will be saddened to know, my fellow countrymen, my young people, I challenge you, I appeal to you, I seek your help: India does not participate in even two-thirds of these sports. We are not present; we do not qualify,” PM Modi said during his address to the nation on India’s 80th Independence Day. Also read| 'Very big honour': Shubman Gill on leading India in historic 600th Test Emphasising the need to excel in sports where India currently lacks a footprint, PM Modi urged a sharp shift in focus. "We have decided that the 2036 Olympics should be held in India. But in 2036, in the disciplines in which India does not play today, in the disciplines in which India does not qualify, in the events that India has left aside, three-fourths of them are waiting for us. India will focus on them, and for this, we are also running a talent identification campaign. “If we need athletes for 2036, then today, a talent hunt campaign will be conducted from village to village, city to city, school to school, to identify sporting talent. We have to focus on the children between the ages of five and fifteen, on our daughters. Their abilities will be assessed, and they will then receive specialised training to develop them into good athletes who can represent the country,” he continued. TOPS a Massive Success: PM Modi As India readies to host the 2030 Commonwealth Games, 20 years since last hosting it, PM Modi shed light on the bigger picture: the Olympics. Revealing how the government’s flagship Target Olympic Podium Scheme (TOPS) has been a massive success in providing support to the athletes, Modi said, "India is making space for itself in the world of sports. We hear our national anthem frequently and see our tricolour going up very often. TOPS has achieved great success. Whether it is Khelo India Games, University Games, Beach Games, Winter Games, or sports training, sports medicine, sports nutrition, India is moving ahead at a great pace. "India's performance is improving, and we are strong contenders to become an Olympic host in 2036. We are hosting the CWG in 2030," PM Modi noted.

PM Narendra Modi announced a nationwide sports talent hunt during his 80th Independence Day address, setting sights on India hosting the 2036 Olympic Games.

India target 2036 Olympics as PM Modi calls for mass talent hunt on 80th Independence Day

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