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Legendary English cricketer James Anderson will be one of the 600 names that will feature in the Big Bash League (BBL 2025-26) season after a final list was revealed on Tuesday (June 17). Anderson, who turns 43 next month will be the highlight reel of the drafts as he remains one of the marquee names. The English speedster holds the record for most wickets in Test format by a fast bowler with 704 and could become the oldest overseas player to feature in the BBL history if picked.<h2>James Anderson enters BBL draft</h2>Anderson, who hung his boots at the international level for England in July 2024, is ready to test his body at 42. He was one of the names who entered the IPL 2025 auctions but remained unsold. Now closing to 43, Anderson is ready to test his luck again as he enters the BBL 2025-26 drafts in what will be a hot summer for the English fraternity.&nbsp;&nbsp;If picked in drafts, Anderson will be Down Under with the rest of the England squad that will feature in a crunch Ashes series which starts in November.&nbsp;&nbsp;The veteran England bowler with 704 wickets in Test format is third on the list for most wickets, also sitting top of the list for most by any fast bowler.&nbsp;&nbsp;He last featured for England in the Test series against the West Indies in July 2024 and has since played in domestic T20 leagues. Notably, he was not picked by any side in The Hundred drafts in March and will have to watch the season from the sidelines.&nbsp;<h2>Will Anderson become the oldest player in BBL history?</h2>If picked by any franchise, Anderson could become the second-oldest player to feature in the BBL history. Currently, Australia’s Bead Hogg holds the record to be the oldest player in BBL history having played at the age of 46 years and 350 days.<h3>Oldest BBL players</h3>Brad Hogg - 46y, 350 days (2018)James Anderson - 43y, 140 days (estimated for start off BBL season in Dec 2025)Shane Warne - 43y, 125d (2013)Brad Hodge - 43, 24d (2018)Dan Christian - 41, 258d (2025)

Legendary English cricketer James Anderson will be one of the 600 names that will feature in the Big Bash League (BBL 2025-26) season after a final list was revealed on Tuesday (June 17).

Legendary English cricketer James Anderson will be one of the 600 names that will feature in the Big Bash League (BBL 2025-26) season after a final list was revealed on Tuesday (June 17). Anderson, who turns 43 next month will be the highlight reel of the drafts as he remains one of the marquee names. The English speedster holds the record for most wickets in Test format by a fast bowler with 704 and could become the oldest overseas player to feature in the BBL history if picked. James Anderson enters BBL draft Anderson, who hung his boots at the international level for England in July 2024, is ready to test his body at 42. He was one of the names who entered the IPL 2025 auctions but remained unsold. Now closing to 43, Anderson is ready to test his luck again as he enters the BBL 2025-26 drafts in what will be a hot summer for the English fraternity. If picked in drafts, Anderson will be Down Under with the rest of the England squad that will feature in a crunch Ashes series which starts in November. The veteran England bowler with 704 wickets in Test format is third on the list for most wickets, also sitting top of the list for most by any fast bowler. He last featured for England in the Test series against the West Indies in July 2024 and has since played in domestic T20 leagues. Notably, he was not picked by any side in The Hundred drafts in March and will have to watch the season from the sidelines. Will Anderson become the oldest player in BBL history? If picked by any franchise, Anderson could become the second-oldest player to feature in the BBL history. Currently, Australia’s Bead Hogg holds the record to be the oldest player in BBL history having played at the age of 46 years and 350 days. Oldest BBL players Brad Hogg - 46y, 350 days (2018) James Anderson - 43y, 140 days (estimated for start off BBL season in Dec 2025) Shane Warne - 43y, 125d (2013) Brad Hodge - 43, 24d (2018) Dan Christian - 41, 258d (2025)

Legendary English cricketer James Anderson will be one of the 600 names that will feature in the Big Bash League (BBL 2025-26) season after a final list was revealed on Tuesday (June 17).

James Anderson, 42, enters BBL draft; could become oldest overseas player to feature in league history

India’s Ahmedabad witnessed a tragic Air India Plane crash on Thursday (June 12) with 241 onboard and several others killed in one of the worst aviation disasters in the nation’s history. Days passed the authorities in Ahmedabad have started the body identification of those deceased in the horror crash as several families lost their loved ones. Among the victims was Dirdh Patel, 23, who played club cricket in Leeds and studied at the University of Huddersfield.&nbsp;<h2>Who was Dirdh Patel?</h2>Student at the University of Huddersfield, Dirdh was one of the 242 passengers on the ill-fated Boeing 787-8 Dreamliner flight on Thursday. He was a native Gujarati and completed an MSc in artificial intelligence at the university and played cricket for Leeds Modernians Cricket Club. Dirdh like his brother played pool cricket and was an exceptional individual as described by his university teacher Dr George Bargiannis.&nbsp;&nbsp;“He was someone I came to know not just for his academic abilities, but for his warmth, passion, and enthusiasm,” Dr. Bargiannis said after hearing the tragic news as quoted by BBC.&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/videos/israel-iran-war-major-setback-as-iranian-missiles-breach-iron-dome-in-tel-aviv-1750141569610/embed">https://www.wionews.com/videos/israel-iran-war-major-setback-as-iranian-missiles-breach-iron-dome-in-tel-aviv-1750141569610/embed</a>&nbsp;ALSO READ | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/cricket-he-ll-be-a-mix-of-kohli-and-rohit-jos-buttler-backs-shubman-gill-to-succeed-as-india-skipper-1750134803226">'He'll be a mix of Kohli and Rohit': Jos Buttler backs Shubman Gill to succeed as India skipper</a>&nbsp;"Dirdh was an exceptional individual, always intellectually curious, coming to me during classes with questions that showed deep understanding and commitment.“He had a clear ability of seeing the bigger picture and how his learning could lead to making a positive impact in the world.”<h2>Investigation underway</h2>Currently, the authorities are investigating the cause of the plane crash that killed at least 270 (including 241 onboard). The black box was recovered on Friday, a day after the horrific crash, but the authorities are yet to identify the real cause. At the time of writing, 99 victims were identified through DNA matching and 64 bodies, including that of former Gujarat chief minister Vijay Rupani, were handed over to their families.

Among the Ahmedabad plane crash victims was Dirdh Patel, 23, who played club cricket in Leeds and studied at the University of Huddersfield. 

India’s Ahmedabad witnessed a tragic Air India Plane crash on Thursday (June 12) with 241 onboard and several others killed in one of the worst aviation disasters in the nation’s history. Days passed the authorities in Ahmedabad have started the body identification of those deceased in the horror crash as several families lost their loved ones. Among the victims was Dirdh Patel, 23, who played club cricket in Leeds and studied at the University of Huddersfield. Who was Dirdh Patel? Student at the University of Huddersfield, Dirdh was one of the 242 passengers on the ill-fated Boeing 787-8 Dreamliner flight on Thursday. He was a native Gujarati and completed an MSc in artificial intelligence at the university and played cricket for Leeds Modernians Cricket Club. Dirdh like his brother played pool cricket and was an exceptional individual as described by his university teacher Dr George Bargiannis. “He was someone I came to know not just for his academic abilities, but for his warmth, passion, and enthusiasm,” Dr. Bargiannis said after hearing the tragic news as quoted by BBC. https://www.wionews.com/videos/israel-iran-war-major-setback-as-iranian-missiles-breach-iron-dome-in-tel-aviv-1750141569610/embed ALSO READ | 'He'll be a mix of Kohli and Rohit': Jos Buttler backs Shubman Gill to succeed as India skipper "Dirdh was an exceptional individual, always intellectually curious, coming to me during classes with questions that showed deep understanding and commitment. “He had a clear ability of seeing the bigger picture and how his learning could lead to making a positive impact in the world.” Investigation underway Currently, the authorities are investigating the cause of the plane crash that killed at least 270 (including 241 onboard). The black box was recovered on Friday, a day after the horrific crash, but the authorities are yet to identify the real cause. At the time of writing, 99 victims were identified through DNA matching and 64 bodies, including that of former Gujarat chief minister Vijay Rupani, were handed over to their families.

Among the Ahmedabad plane crash victims was Dirdh Patel, 23, who played club cricket in Leeds and studied at the University of Huddersfield.&nbsp;

Ahmedabad Plane Crash - Gone too soon: 23-year-old who played club cricket in Leeds among victims

Israel-Iran War: Amid the tensions around the Israel-Iran war, Cristiano Ronaldo - awarded with "Best Middle East Player" in football - sent a unique gift and a message to the US President Donald Trump. The &nbsp;Portuguese footballer sent the American president a signed jersey at the G7 meeting in Canada’s Kananaskis. In phots and videos circulated on social media showed Trump showing the jersey to the cameras, revealing the five-time Ballon d’Or winner’s message on the back of it.&nbsp;"To President Donald J Trump. Praying for peace,” the jersey said in the message signed by Ronaldo.Ronaldo has long been vocal about peace in the Middle East and in the world. Earlier, he had spoken about the Gaza conflict as well. His message to Trump, when the US president was at the G7 Summit in Canada, having the Israel-Iran conflict as one of the major topics of discussion, made a huge impact.

<blockquote class="twitter-tweet">President Trump receives a signed jersey by <a href="https://twitter.com/Cristiano?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@Cristiano</a> from <a href="https://twitter.com/eucopresident?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@eucopresident</a>! <a href="https://t.co/n6I3zGQLEH">pic.twitter.com/n6I3zGQLEH</a>&mdash; Margo Martin (@MargoMartin47) <a href="https://twitter.com/MargoMartin47/status/1934723852166434872?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">June 16, 2025</a></blockquote> <script async src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script>

&nbsp;'Israel has a right to defend itself'&nbsp;The G7 leaders issued a joint statement saying that Israel has "a right to defend itself." The statement published by Canada said, "We, the leaders of the G7, reiterate our commitment to peace and stability in the Middle East. In this context, we affirm that Israel has a right to defend itself. We reiterate our support for the security of Israel."&nbsp;Moreover, the statement said that it's Iran which is the " principal source of regional instability and terror."&nbsp;"We also affirm the importance of the protection of civilians," the statement read.&nbsp;“We have been consistently clear that Iran can never have a nuclear weapon. We urge that the resolution of the Iranian crisis leads to a broader de-escalation of hostilities in the Middle East, including a ceasefire in Gaza,” the statement said. &nbsp;

Cristiano Ronaldo sends special gift and a message to Trump at G7 Summit amid Israel-Iran war

Israel-Iran War: Amid the tensions around the Israel-Iran war, Cristiano Ronaldo - awarded with "Best Middle East Player" in football - sent a unique gift and a message to the US President Donald Trump. The Portuguese footballer sent the American president a signed jersey at the G7 meeting in Canada’s Kananaskis. In phots and videos circulated on social media showed Trump showing the jersey to the cameras, revealing the five-time Ballon d’Or winner’s message on the back of it. "To President Donald J Trump. Praying for peace,” the jersey said in the message signed by Ronaldo. Ronaldo has long been vocal about peace in the Middle East and in the world. Earlier, he had spoken about the Gaza conflict as well. His message to Trump, when the US president was at the G7 Summit in Canada, having the Israel-Iran conflict as one of the major topics of discussion, made a huge impact.

Amid the tensions around the Israel-Iran war, Cristiano Ronaldo - awarded with "Best Middle East Player" in football - sent a unique gift and a message to the US President Donald Trump.

Former England white-ball skipper Jos Buttler has backed Shubman Gill to succeed as India’s captain as he reckons he has a blend of both Virat Kohli and Rohit Sharma. The statement comes just a couple of weeks after the Indian Premier League (IPL 2025) season concluded where Buttler shared a dressing room with Gill in the Gujarat Titans camp. Gill was named as the Indian Test team skipper in May after Rohit Sharma announced his retirement from the format.&nbsp;<h2>Buttler backs Gill to succeed</h2>"He's a really impressive player and an impressive young man," Buttler said. "He's pretty calm and measured when he speaks, but [it's] interesting, I feel like on the field he's got a bit of fight about him; a bit of intensity, quite passionate. I think he'll be a mix of Kohli and Rohit.&nbsp;"Kohli [was] that sort of real aggressive [character], really transformed the Indian team, in your face, up for the contest. Rohit [was] a bit on the other side, a bit more laid back, very cool, calm, collected customer, but with that sort of fight. I feel like, from my time knowing Shubman so far, he'll be a bit in the middle. He's obviously learned from those two guys… but he'll be very much his own man."&nbsp;Gill was the front-runner for the vacant captain’s post after Rohit’s untimely retirement from the Test format. He oversaw competition from Jasprit Bumrah and KL Rahul to lead the Indian team during the high-voltage series which starts on Friday (June 20).&nbsp;Gill has enjoyed a successful spell as the captain of the Gujarat Titans in the IPL having guided them to two Playoffs in three seasons in charge. He was also the Indian captain during the Zimbabwe tour in 2024 where the Men in Blue hammered the African side. However, this will be his first stint as captain in the longer format with his first assignment in Leeds against Ben Stokes’ England.<h2>India tour of England 2025</h2>1st Test: 20 June to 24 June, Headingley, Leeds2nd Test: 2 July to 6 July, Edgbaston, Birmingham3rd Test: 10 July to 14 July, Lord's, London4th Test: 23 July to 27 July, Emirates Old Trafford, Manchester5th Test: 31 July to 4 August, Kennington Oval, London

Former England white-ball skipper Jos Buttler has backed Shubman Gill to succeed as India’s captain as he reckons he has a blend of both Virat Kohli and Rohit Sharma. 

Former England white-ball skipper Jos Buttler has backed Shubman Gill to succeed as India’s captain as he reckons he has a blend of both Virat Kohli and Rohit Sharma. The statement comes just a couple of weeks after the Indian Premier League (IPL 2025) season concluded where Buttler shared a dressing room with Gill in the Gujarat Titans camp. Gill was named as the Indian Test team skipper in May after Rohit Sharma announced his retirement from the format. Buttler backs Gill to succeed "He's a really impressive player and an impressive young man," Buttler said. "He's pretty calm and measured when he speaks, but [it's] interesting, I feel like on the field he's got a bit of fight about him; a bit of intensity, quite passionate. I think he'll be a mix of Kohli and Rohit. "Kohli [was] that sort of real aggressive [character], really transformed the Indian team, in your face, up for the contest. Rohit [was] a bit on the other side, a bit more laid back, very cool, calm, collected customer, but with that sort of fight. I feel like, from my time knowing Shubman so far, he'll be a bit in the middle. He's obviously learned from those two guys… but he'll be very much his own man." Gill was the front-runner for the vacant captain’s post after Rohit’s untimely retirement from the Test format. He oversaw competition from Jasprit Bumrah and KL Rahul to lead the Indian team during the high-voltage series which starts on Friday (June 20). Gill has enjoyed a successful spell as the captain of the Gujarat Titans in the IPL having guided them to two Playoffs in three seasons in charge. He was also the Indian captain during the Zimbabwe tour in 2024 where the Men in Blue hammered the African side. However, this will be his first stint as captain in the longer format with his first assignment in Leeds against Ben Stokes’ England. India tour of England 2025 1st Test: 20 June to 24 June, Headingley, Leeds 2nd Test: 2 July to 6 July, Edgbaston, Birmingham 3rd Test: 10 July to 14 July, Lord's, London 4th Test: 23 July to 27 July, Emirates Old Trafford, Manchester 5th Test: 31 July to 4 August, Kennington Oval, London

Former England white-ball skipper Jos Buttler has backed Shubman Gill to succeed as India’s captain as he reckons he has a blend of both Virat Kohli and Rohit Sharma.&nbsp;

'He'll be a mix of Kohli and Rohit': Jos Buttler backs Shubman Gill to succeed as India skipper

New Zealand women’s cricket legend Sophie Devine will call time on her ODI career after the Women’s World Cup, she announced on Tuesday (June 17). Devine, who has served New Zealand cricket for almost two decades will no longer play any part in the 50-over format after the Women’s World Cup which takes place in India and Sri Lanka from September 30 to November 2. However, she will remain available for T20Is under a casual playing agreement with New Zealand Cricket.<h2>Devine to retire after Women’s World Cup</h2>"It feels like the right time for me to start stepping away," Devine said. "I feel very fortunate to have NZC's support in finding a solution that means I can still give to the White Ferns."It's important that everyone knows I'm focused and dedicated to giving this group everything I can before I step away.&nbsp;"I'm really excited by where this young group's going and I'm looking forward to playing my part in the next six to nine months."<h2>Modern-day greats for New Zealand</h2>One of the modern-day greats in women’s cricket, Devine has played in 152 ODIs, scoring 3990 runs including eighth hundreds and 16 fifties. She also has 107 wickets during the period, highlighting her credentials as one of the best all-rounders in the women’s game.&nbsp;&nbsp;While she will continue to represent the White Ferns in T20Is, it will be a mutual agreement and will opt out of the central contract. She has played in 146 T20Is, scoring 3431 runs including a hundred in the shortest format. She also has 119 wickets in the shortest format with a best of 22/4.&nbsp;&nbsp;Devine led New Zealand in 49 matches having taken over the captain’s armband in 2020 and has the win per cent of any skipper for the national side.

New Zealand womens cricket legend Sophie Devine will call time on her ODI career after the Women’s World Cup, she announced on Tuesday (June 17).

New Zealand women’s cricket legend Sophie Devine will call time on her ODI career after the Women’s World Cup, she announced on Tuesday (June 17). Devine, who has served New Zealand cricket for almost two decades will no longer play any part in the 50-over format after the Women’s World Cup which takes place in India and Sri Lanka from September 30 to November 2. However, she will remain available for T20Is under a casual playing agreement with New Zealand Cricket. Devine to retire after Women’s World Cup "It feels like the right time for me to start stepping away," Devine said. "I feel very fortunate to have NZC's support in finding a solution that means I can still give to the White Ferns. "It's important that everyone knows I'm focused and dedicated to giving this group everything I can before I step away. "I'm really excited by where this young group's going and I'm looking forward to playing my part in the next six to nine months." Modern-day greats for New Zealand One of the modern-day greats in women’s cricket, Devine has played in 152 ODIs, scoring 3990 runs including eighth hundreds and 16 fifties. She also has 107 wickets during the period, highlighting her credentials as one of the best all-rounders in the women’s game. While she will continue to represent the White Ferns in T20Is, it will be a mutual agreement and will opt out of the central contract. She has played in 146 T20Is, scoring 3431 runs including a hundred in the shortest format. She also has 119 wickets in the shortest format with a best of 22/4. Devine led New Zealand in 49 matches having taken over the captain’s armband in 2020 and has the win per cent of any skipper for the national side.

New Zealand women’s cricket legend Sophie Devine will call time on her ODI career after the Women’s World Cup, she announced on Tuesday (June 17).

Sophie Devine to retire from ODIs after World Cup, says 'right time for me to start stepping away'

Frances Tiafoe fell to a first round exit at Queen's Club on Monday as veteran Brit Dan Evans rolled back the years, while fourth seed Holger Rune eased through.&nbsp;Evans, who needed a wildcard for his place in the draw after sliding to 199 in the world rankings, proved too good for the seventh seed in a 7-5, 6-2 win.&nbsp;"I still believed I've got that tennis in me and I still believe I can do good things inside the top 100. But believing it and it happening is a lot different," said Evans after winning the first men's match on the newly-christened Andy Murray Arena.&nbsp;The 35-year-old was a fitting victor as he had partnered Murray in his final match before retirement in the men's doubles at the Paris Olympics.&nbsp;"A few people mentioned it, that I had finished with him in his last match and then played the men's event, the first match," added Evans.&nbsp;"It was pretty cool to do that."&nbsp;Rune had no such problems as the Dane eased into his grass court season with a 6-3, 6-4 win over Australian lucky loser Christopher O'Connell.&nbsp;British number two Jacob Fearnley joined Evans in round two after he made short work of Australia's Alex Bolt with a 6-2 6-4 victory.&nbsp;But there was disappointment for another home favourite in Cameron Norrie, who was beaten 7-6 (8/6) 1-6 6-1 by Czech rising star Jakub Mensik.&nbsp;The 19-year-old, who beat Novak Djokovic to win the Miami Masters in March, next faces Roberto Bautista Agut, who edged out Nuno Borges 6-7 (6/8), 7-5, 6-4.&nbsp;Qualifier Mackenzie McDonald got the better of 38-year-old Gael Monfils 6-4, 6-4.Carlos Alcaraz plays for the first time since his remarkable French Open victory over Jannik Sinner on Tuesday when he begins his quest for a second title at Queen's against fellow Spaniard Alejandro Davidovich Fokina.&nbsp;Disclaimer: This story has been published from a news agency feed with minimal edits to adhere to WION's style guide. The headline may have been changed to better reflect the content of the story or to make it more suitable for WION audience.

Frances Tiafoe fell to a first round exit at Queens Club on Monday as veteran Brit Dan Evans rolled back the years, while fourth seed Holger Rune eased through.

Frances Tiafoe fell to a first round exit at Queen's Club on Monday as veteran Brit Dan Evans rolled back the years, while fourth seed Holger Rune eased through. Evans, who needed a wildcard for his place in the draw after sliding to 199 in the world rankings, proved too good for the seventh seed in a 7-5, 6-2 win. "I still believed I've got that tennis in me and I still believe I can do good things inside the top 100. But believing it and it happening is a lot different," said Evans after winning the first men's match on the newly-christened Andy Murray Arena. The 35-year-old was a fitting victor as he had partnered Murray in his final match before retirement in the men's doubles at the Paris Olympics. "A few people mentioned it, that I had finished with him in his last match and then played the men's event, the first match," added Evans. "It was pretty cool to do that." Rune had no such problems as the Dane eased into his grass court season with a 6-3, 6-4 win over Australian lucky loser Christopher O'Connell. British number two Jacob Fearnley joined Evans in round two after he made short work of Australia's Alex Bolt with a 6-2 6-4 victory. But there was disappointment for another home favourite in Cameron Norrie, who was beaten 7-6 (8/6) 1-6 6-1 by Czech rising star Jakub Mensik. The 19-year-old, who beat Novak Djokovic to win the Miami Masters in March, next faces Roberto Bautista Agut, who edged out Nuno Borges 6-7 (6/8), 7-5, 6-4. Qualifier Mackenzie McDonald got the better of 38-year-old Gael Monfils 6-4, 6-4. Carlos Alcaraz plays for the first time since his remarkable French Open victory over Jannik Sinner on Tuesday when he begins his quest for a second title at Queen's against fellow Spaniard Alejandro Davidovich Fokina. Disclaimer: This story has been published from a news agency feed with minimal edits to adhere to WION's style guide. The headline may have been changed to better reflect the content of the story or to make it more suitable for WION audience.

Frances Tiafoe fell to a first round exit at Queen's Club on Monday as veteran Brit Dan Evans rolled back the years, while fourth seed Holger Rune eased through.

Frances Tiafoe crashes out, Holger Rune cruises through at Queen's Club

Chelsea kicked off their Club World Cup campaign with a solid 2-0 victory over Los Angeles FC on Monday in Group D, although there were nearly 50,000 empty seats in the stadium in Atlanta.&nbsp;Pedro Neto and Enzo Fernandez's goals got the Blues off to a good start in a competitive clash against one of the three qualified MLS teams.&nbsp;New signing Liam Delap made his debut as a substitute and helped set up Fernandez's strike, with Chelsea hoping to reestablish themselves among the elite after their UEFA Conference League triumph and Champions League qualification.&nbsp;Chelsea coach Enzo Maresca said it was a "very good result" and was happy with Delap's display.&nbsp;"The good thing about Liam is he knows the way we want to play, so the process is quite quick," said the Italian.&nbsp;After a solid start to the tournament regarding attendance numbers over the opening weekend, a sparse crowd of just over 22,000 settled in at the stylish 71,000 capacity Mercedes-Benz Stadium."The environment was a bit strange, the stadium was almost empty, not full," Maresca told reporters.&nbsp;Behind former Tottenham Hotspur stopper Hugo Lloris' goal in the first half, a couple of hundred LAFC 'ultras' helped provide an atmosphere with a drum beat and constant song.The closed stadium roof offered refuge from the Georgia humidity and mid-afternoon summer sun which Paris Saint-Germain and Atletico Madrid stars roasted under on Sunday at the Rose Bowl in Pasadena.&nbsp;However, the attendance suffered badly because of the 3:00 pm local time kick-off.Despite regular strong crowds for MLS side Atlanta United, the best supported US team, few locals decided to take a Monday off work for the tournament's first weekday afternoon game, seemingly chosen to suit a British television audience.&nbsp;After beating Club America in a play-off to qualify for the competition as late as May, LAFC took the place of the banned Mexican side Club Leon, and play none of their three group games at home in California.&nbsp;The top ring of the stadium was entirely shut and other levels were only partly filled, despite ticket prices dropping in the days ahead of the game.&nbsp;It was the first real blow for organisers FIFA's expanded competition, which is also being viewed as a trial run ahead of the 2026 World Cup, hosted by the US, Canada and Mexico.Chelsea took control from the start, with Lloris saving from Nicolas Jackson and Noni Madueke, while Cole Palmer whistled a strike narrowly over.&nbsp;With new signing Delap looking on from the bench, Jackson played like a man determined to keep his starting spot.&nbsp;The striker was instrumental in Neto's opener, releasing the Portuguese winger with an excellent through ball.&nbsp;Neto chopped in the box to leave LA defender Ryan Hollingshead stumbling helplessly out of sight and then buried a powerful strike past Lloris low at the near post.<h2>Delap debut</h2>Former Chelsea striker Olivier Giroud came on at half-time for the Americans and Steve Cherundolo's team improved in the second half.&nbsp;Jackson came close with a header and LA almost levelled but Sanchez made a fine save with his outstretched leg to thwart 2023 MLS golden boot winner Denis Bouanga after he shook off Neto.&nbsp;Maresca brought on 22-year-old striker Delap for his Chelsea debut after the hour mark, having begun the game with all of the club's new faces on the bench.&nbsp;The forward drove into space and tried to tee up Fernandez with a promising first move in a Chelsea shirt since his arrival from relegated Ipswich Town.&nbsp;Chelsea star Palmer, who had shown occasional flashes of brilliance, hammered over before Fernandez grabbed Chelsea's second.&nbsp;Running into the six-yard box, the Argentine midfielder controlled Delap's cross from the right and beat Lloris to put the game to bed.&nbsp;"Regarding crowds I think it's kind of different each game you look at so I don't think we should be talking about this right now," said LA coach Cherundolo.&nbsp;"I think we should wait until the end of the tournament...(to make) an opinion about it as a whole, as opposed to one game."&nbsp;Elsewhere in Group D Esperance Tunis face Brazil's Flamengo later on Monday.&nbsp;Disclaimer: This story has been published from a news agency feed with minimal edits to adhere to WION's style guide. The headline may have been changed to better reflect the content of the story or to make it more suitable for WION audience.

Chelsea kicked off their Club World Cup campaign with a solid 2-0 victory over Los Angeles FC on Monday in Group D, although there were nearly 50,000 empty seats in the stadium in Atlanta.

Chelsea kicked off their Club World Cup campaign with a solid 2-0 victory over Los Angeles FC on Monday in Group D, although there were nearly 50,000 empty seats in the stadium in Atlanta. Pedro Neto and Enzo Fernandez's goals got the Blues off to a good start in a competitive clash against one of the three qualified MLS teams. New signing Liam Delap made his debut as a substitute and helped set up Fernandez's strike, with Chelsea hoping to reestablish themselves among the elite after their UEFA Conference League triumph and Champions League qualification. Chelsea coach Enzo Maresca said it was a "very good result" and was happy with Delap's display. "The good thing about Liam is he knows the way we want to play, so the process is quite quick," said the Italian. After a solid start to the tournament regarding attendance numbers over the opening weekend, a sparse crowd of just over 22,000 settled in at the stylish 71,000 capacity Mercedes-Benz Stadium. "The environment was a bit strange, the stadium was almost empty, not full," Maresca told reporters. Behind former Tottenham Hotspur stopper Hugo Lloris' goal in the first half, a couple of hundred LAFC 'ultras' helped provide an atmosphere with a drum beat and constant song. The closed stadium roof offered refuge from the Georgia humidity and mid-afternoon summer sun which Paris Saint-Germain and Atletico Madrid stars roasted under on Sunday at the Rose Bowl in Pasadena. However, the attendance suffered badly because of the 3:00 pm local time kick-off. Despite regular strong crowds for MLS side Atlanta United, the best supported US team, few locals decided to take a Monday off work for the tournament's first weekday afternoon game, seemingly chosen to suit a British television audience. After beating Club America in a play-off to qualify for the competition as late as May, LAFC took the place of the banned Mexican side Club Leon, and play none of their three group games at home in California. The top ring of the stadium was entirely shut and other levels were only partly filled, despite ticket prices dropping in the days ahead of the game. It was the first real blow for organisers FIFA's expanded competition, which is also being viewed as a trial run ahead of the 2026 World Cup, hosted by the US, Canada and Mexico. Chelsea took control from the start, with Lloris saving from Nicolas Jackson and Noni Madueke, while Cole Palmer whistled a strike narrowly over. With new signing Delap looking on from the bench, Jackson played like a man determined to keep his starting spot. The striker was instrumental in Neto's opener, releasing the Portuguese winger with an excellent through ball. Neto chopped in the box to leave LA defender Ryan Hollingshead stumbling helplessly out of sight and then buried a powerful strike past Lloris low at the near post. Delap debut Former Chelsea striker Olivier Giroud came on at half-time for the Americans and Steve Cherundolo's team improved in the second half. Jackson came close with a header and LA almost levelled but Sanchez made a fine save with his outstretched leg to thwart 2023 MLS golden boot winner Denis Bouanga after he shook off Neto. Maresca brought on 22-year-old striker Delap for his Chelsea debut after the hour mark, having begun the game with all of the club's new faces on the bench. The forward drove into space and tried to tee up Fernandez with a promising first move in a Chelsea shirt since his arrival from relegated Ipswich Town. Chelsea star Palmer, who had shown occasional flashes of brilliance, hammered over before Fernandez grabbed Chelsea's second. Running into the six-yard box, the Argentine midfielder controlled Delap's cross from the right and beat Lloris to put the game to bed. "Regarding crowds I think it's kind of different each game you look at so I don't think we should be talking about this right now," said LA coach Cherundolo. "I think we should wait until the end of the tournament...(to make) an opinion about it as a whole, as opposed to one game." Elsewhere in Group D Esperance Tunis face Brazil's Flamengo later on Monday. Disclaimer: This story has been published from a news agency feed with minimal edits to adhere to WION's style guide. The headline may have been changed to better reflect the content of the story or to make it more suitable for WION audience.

Chelsea kicked off their Club World Cup campaign with a solid 2-0 victory over Los Angeles FC on Monday in Group D, although there were nearly 50,000 empty seats in the stadium in Atlanta.

FIFA Club World Cup: Chelsea beat LAFC in opener; 50,000 empty seats headline poorly attended clash

Cricket great, let alone from England, James Anderson had to choose between two batting giants – Virat Kohli and Sachin Tendulkar, on who was tougher to bowl to, and he duly made a choice. Anderson, who played for over two decades and only retired from international cricket in 2024, has bowled enough to both batters to make a choice on whom he found challenging to get better off.&nbsp;While his earlier days saw him troubling Sachin in Tests, once he closed in on his 30s, he peaked, and against him was Virat Kohli, whom he enjoyed dismissing in the red-ball format.&nbsp;&nbsp;Also read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/icc-posts-45-second-video-celebrating-wtc-final-shows-jay-shah-11-times-fans-react-australia-south-africa-lords-1750088497448">'Beyond weird': ICC posts 45-second video celebrating WTC Final, shows Jay Shah 11 times; fans react</a> &nbsp;For the record, James Anderson is the third-highest wicket-taker in Tests (704) and just behind the spin wizards – Shane Warne (708) and Muttiah Muralitharan (800). And among those, he has had Sachin and Virat’s numbers plenty of times. &nbsp;While Anderson holds a better head-to-head record against Tendulkar in Tests, dismissing him nine times in 350 balls bowled to the little master compared to dismissing Kohli seven times in 36 innings, he picked the modern-day great over Sachin for a batter he found difficulty bowling to. &nbsp;Reflecting on his on-field battles (with some of the modern-day greats) while speaking on a TalkSport podcast, including choosing among the Fab-Four (Virat, Kane Williamson, Steve Smith and Joe Root), Anderson said, “I have found it more difficult to bowl to Kohli than even Sachin Tendulkar.” &nbsp;Although both had mutual respect and admiration for each other, be it on or off the field, neither took the other lightly in any of the challenges across formats.<h2>No Kohli on England tour &nbsp;</h2>Like Anderson, who hung up his Test boots 22 years after making his debut, Virat Kohli announced his Test retirement days before the squad announcement for the upcoming England Tests, starting June 20 in Leeds. &nbsp;After failing miserably on his maiden English tour in 2014 (scoring 134 runs in five matches), Kohli bounced back tremendously well on the next tour four years later, finishing as the highest run-getter (593 runs in 10 innings).&nbsp; &nbsp;His battles with Anderson were the highlight, as despite England's pacer gaining an early advantage over him in that series, Kohli had the last laugh.&nbsp; &nbsp;However, on his last English tour four years ago, Kohli struggled again against the seaming delivery, with Anderson having the better of him.&nbsp; &nbsp;Meanwhile, the upcoming Test series is the first since 2012 to not include Anderson and Kohli.&nbsp;

James Anderson picks between Kohli and Sachin on tougher batter to bowl to

Cricket great, let alone from England, James Anderson had to choose between two batting giants – Virat Kohli and Sachin Tendulkar, on who was tougher to bowl to, and he duly made a choice. Anderson, who played for over two decades and only retired from international cricket in 2024, has bowled enough to both batters to make a choice on whom he found challenging to get better off. While his earlier days saw him troubling Sachin in Tests, once he closed in on his 30s, he peaked, and against him was Virat Kohli, whom he enjoyed dismissing in the red-ball format. Also read | 'Beyond weird': ICC posts 45-second video celebrating WTC Final, shows Jay Shah 11 times; fans react For the record, James Anderson is the third-highest wicket-taker in Tests (704) and just behind the spin wizards – Shane Warne (708) and Muttiah Muralitharan (800). And among those, he has had Sachin and Virat’s numbers plenty of times. While Anderson holds a better head-to-head record against Tendulkar in Tests, dismissing him nine times in 350 balls bowled to the little master compared to dismissing Kohli seven times in 36 innings, he picked the modern-day great over Sachin for a batter he found difficulty bowling to. Reflecting on his on-field battles (with some of the modern-day greats) while speaking on a TalkSport podcast, including choosing among the Fab-Four (Virat, Kane Williamson, Steve Smith and Joe Root), Anderson said, “I have found it more difficult to bowl to Kohli than even Sachin Tendulkar.” Although both had mutual respect and admiration for each other, be it on or off the field, neither took the other lightly in any of the challenges across formats. No Kohli on England tour Like Anderson, who hung up his Test boots 22 years after making his debut, Virat Kohli announced his Test retirement days before the squad announcement for the upcoming England Tests, starting June 20 in Leeds. After failing miserably on his maiden English tour in 2014 (scoring 134 runs in five matches), Kohli bounced back tremendously well on the next tour four years later, finishing as the highest run-getter (593 runs in 10 innings). His battles with Anderson were the highlight, as despite England's pacer gaining an early advantage over him in that series, Kohli had the last laugh. However, on his last English tour four years ago, Kohli struggled again against the seaming delivery, with Anderson having the better of him. Meanwhile, the upcoming Test series is the first since 2012 to not include Anderson and Kohli.

While his earlier days saw him troubling Sachin in Tests, once he closed in on his 30s, he peaked, and against him was Virat Kohli, whom he enjoyed dismissing in the red-ball format.&nbsp;

Four Atletico Madrid ultras have been handed suspended jail sentences for hanging a dummy of Real Madrid star Vinicius Junior from a bridge in what police deemed a "hate crime", judicial sources said on Monday.&nbsp;A dark-skinned effigy wearing the Brazil forward's jersey was hung by the neck from a highway bridge near Real Madrid's training ground in January 2023, ahead of the club's match against Atletico.&nbsp;Also read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/football-fifa-club-world-cup-2025-psg-cruise-over-atletico-bayern-thrash-auckland-1750043532580">FIFA Club World Cup 2025: PSG cruise over Atletico, Bayern thrash Auckland</a>&nbsp;Police in May 2023 arrested four men -- all of them members of Frente Atletico, one of Atletico Madrid's ultra fan groups -- who were suspected of being responsible.&nbsp;Under a plea deal with the prosecution, which still must be confirmed by a court, the four pleaded guilty to the crimes of making threats against the player and infringing his fundamental rights, the judicial sources said.&nbsp;Three of the men accepted a sentence of 14 months, while one was given a 22-month sentence for also distributing images of the act online.&nbsp;The four will not serve jail time since in Spain it is customary for those sentenced to under two years for non-violent crimes to have their sentence suspended if they have no criminal record.&nbsp;Public prosecutors had asked they each be slapped with a four-year jail term.&nbsp;The four have signed a letter of apology addressed to Vinicius, Real Madrid, La Liga and the Spanish football federation, and will be required to complete a training programme on equal treatment and non-discrimination, La Liga said in a statement.&nbsp;They were also fined and barred from coming within 1,000 metres of the Brazilian player or any stadium for more than five years, the statement added.&nbsp;"This ruling marks a strong step forward in the fight against hate and discrimination in sport," La Liga said, noting it had filed the original complaint following the incidents.&nbsp;Real Madrid welcomed the ruling, saying in a separate statement that the four bring to 14 the total number of people convicted for racist attacks against their players.&nbsp;&nbsp;The club pledged to continue efforts to "eradicate any racist behaviour in the world of football".&nbsp;The black Brazilian forward, who testified via videoconference in the case last month, has been the target of numerous racist incidents since arriving in Madrid in 2018, sparking public outrage and resulting in several court convictions.&nbsp;Disclaimer: This story has been published from a news agency feed with minimal edits to adhere to WION's style guide. The headline may have been changed to better reflect the content of the story or to make it more suitable for the WION audience.

Four Atletico Madrid ultras get suspended jail for hanging Vinicius’ dummy

Four Atletico Madrid ultras have been handed suspended jail sentences for hanging a dummy of Real Madrid star Vinicius Junior from a bridge in what police deemed a "hate crime", judicial sources said on Monday. A dark-skinned effigy wearing the Brazil forward's jersey was hung by the neck from a highway bridge near Real Madrid's training ground in January 2023, ahead of the club's match against Atletico. Also read | FIFA Club World Cup 2025: PSG cruise over Atletico, Bayern thrash Auckland Police in May 2023 arrested four men -- all of them members of Frente Atletico, one of Atletico Madrid's ultra fan groups -- who were suspected of being responsible. Under a plea deal with the prosecution, which still must be confirmed by a court, the four pleaded guilty to the crimes of making threats against the player and infringing his fundamental rights, the judicial sources said. Three of the men accepted a sentence of 14 months, while one was given a 22-month sentence for also distributing images of the act online. The four will not serve jail time since in Spain it is customary for those sentenced to under two years for non-violent crimes to have their sentence suspended if they have no criminal record. Public prosecutors had asked they each be slapped with a four-year jail term. The four have signed a letter of apology addressed to Vinicius, Real Madrid, La Liga and the Spanish football federation, and will be required to complete a training programme on equal treatment and non-discrimination, La Liga said in a statement. They were also fined and barred from coming within 1,000 metres of the Brazilian player or any stadium for more than five years, the statement added. "This ruling marks a strong step forward in the fight against hate and discrimination in sport," La Liga said, noting it had filed the original complaint following the incidents. Real Madrid welcomed the ruling, saying in a separate statement that the four bring to 14 the total number of people convicted for racist attacks against their players. The club pledged to continue efforts to "eradicate any racist behaviour in the world of football". The black Brazilian forward, who testified via videoconference in the case last month, has been the target of numerous racist incidents since arriving in Madrid in 2018, sparking public outrage and resulting in several court convictions. Disclaimer: This story has been published from a news agency feed with minimal edits to adhere to WION's style guide. The headline may have been changed to better reflect the content of the story or to make it more suitable for the WION audience.

A dark-skinned effigy wearing the Brazil forward's jersey was hung by the neck from a highway bridge near Real Madrid's training ground in January 2023, ahead of the club's match against Atletico.

The ICC posted a 45-second video celebrating WTC Final 2025 success; however, the fans are in splits over them providing ‘extra coverage’ to the newly-appointed ICC chairman, Jay Shah, who, by count, has 11 cuts dedicated to him during the video.&nbsp;The video begins with a wide-angle shot of the Lord’s balcony, with Shah appearing in the second cut itself. While the editor did try and put everything inside it, from the teams walking out for the first day play to Temba Bavuma celebrating after creating history as the Proteas captain, all, however, included at least one shot of Jay Shah.&nbsp;Also read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/sl-vs-ban-2025-angelo-mathews-exposes-disparity-in-test-cricket-calendar-sri-lanka-india-australia-1750083656858">India to play 18 Tests, AUS 22 and SL just 12 in next WTC cycle – Mathews exposes disparity in red-ball cricket calendar</a> &nbsp;Though a section of fans have been grateful to him for his contribution as the BCCI secretary in his previous position, a massive chunk of those have come down hard on the ICC for posting such an ‘out-of-place’ video under the caption, “A fantastic #WTC25 Final at Lord's with the @proteasmencsa lifting the mace on day four after defeating the defending champions @ausmencricket,” with most of the shots belonging to Shah.&nbsp;

<blockquote class="twitter-tweet">A fantastic <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/WTC25?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#WTC25</a> Final at Lord&#39;s with the <a href="https://twitter.com/ProteasMenCSA?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@proteasmencsa</a> lifting the mace on day four after defeating the defending champions <a href="https://twitter.com/ausmencricket?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@ausmencricket</a> <a href="https://t.co/NCMndTlWne">pic.twitter.com/NCMndTlWne</a>&mdash; ICC (@ICC) <a href="https://twitter.com/ICC/status/1934589898708902174?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">June 16, 2025</a></blockquote> <script async src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script>

Meanwhile, Australia and South Africa produced a cracker of a final in London, which saw the Bavuma-led team crushing their ‘chokers curse’ and winning their second major ICC title – the first since 1998 when they won the inaugural ICC Champions Trophy title. &nbsp;For South Africa, ace quick Kagiso Rabada and opener Aiden Markram starred. While Rabada made it to the Lord’s honours board for the second time in his career, thanks to his five-for in the first innings, Markram delivered the winning punch in the fourth innings by hitting a majestic 136. &nbsp;Captain Bavuma was also at the centre of the run chase, hitting a fighting 66 in the fourth innings. He and Markram stitched a 157-run stand for the third wicket, laying the foundation for a historic win. &nbsp;Meanwhile, check out some of the funny reactions to the video ICC posted on its social media handles.

<blockquote class="twitter-tweet">Jay Shah: <a href="https://t.co/qwqVVGDSbp">https://t.co/qwqVVGDSbp</a> <a href="https://t.co/z8GqYnZwDF">pic.twitter.com/z8GqYnZwDF</a>&mdash; Vithushan Ehantharajah (@Vitu_E) <a href="https://twitter.com/Vitu_E/status/1934594986466541878?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">June 16, 2025</a></blockquote> <script async src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script>

<blockquote class="twitter-tweet">Jay Shah appears in this video 11 times, there are the same number of shots of him as winners South Africa <a href="https://t.co/69UmtzpF7J">https://t.co/69UmtzpF7J</a>&mdash; Charlie Reynolds (@cwjreynolds) <a href="https://twitter.com/cwjreynolds/status/1934604805432819772?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">June 16, 2025</a></blockquote> <script async src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script>

<blockquote class="twitter-tweet">Beyond parody. This video consists of 23 separate shots, 11 of which feature the ICC chairman. Nevertheless, there will still be a cohort of client journalists along to furiously defend it, and insist there&#39;s nothing unusual about it. <a href="https://t.co/Uqdsl0Edx3">https://t.co/Uqdsl0Edx3</a>&mdash; hypocaust (@_hypocaust) <a href="https://twitter.com/_hypocaust/status/1934600072253014319?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">June 16, 2025</a></blockquote> <script async src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script>

<blockquote class="twitter-tweet"><a href="https://t.co/AW423Bg2AQ">https://t.co/AW423Bg2AQ</a> <a href="https://t.co/gXb8EQSxtD">pic.twitter.com/gXb8EQSxtD</a>&mdash; Akbar Choudhry (@Dr_A_Choudhry) <a href="https://twitter.com/Dr_A_Choudhry/status/1934604443493810184?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">June 16, 2025</a></blockquote> <script async src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script>

<blockquote class="twitter-tweet">Didnt realise the ICC final was Jay Shah v Jay Shah. This video montage looks like it has been compiled by the Jay Shah appreciation society (which has 1 member) Yes he is the ICC chairman but this post was about the <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/WtcFinal2025?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#WtcFinal2025</a> yet Jay is in it TWELVE times.. <a href="https://t.co/mqSQ0fNUJf">https://t.co/mqSQ0fNUJf</a>&mdash; Erika Morris (@ErikaMorris79) <a href="https://twitter.com/ErikaMorris79/status/1934609605184598344?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">June 16, 2025</a></blockquote> <script async src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script>

<blockquote class="twitter-tweet">They managed to show Jay Shah around 11 times in a 45 sec video Peak sycophancy 😂😂 <a href="https://t.co/lXyUbsw0f8">https://t.co/lXyUbsw0f8</a>&mdash; Shilpak. (@ugach_kahitarii) <a href="https://twitter.com/ugach_kahitarii/status/1934609325445525956?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">June 16, 2025</a></blockquote> <script async src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script>

<blockquote class="twitter-tweet">What you don’t understand is he’s about to move out of the way of the camera in all of these shots <a href="https://t.co/34AmjJlO7I">https://t.co/34AmjJlO7I</a>&mdash; Ben Gardner (@Ben_Wisden) <a href="https://twitter.com/Ben_Wisden/status/1934603841904799801?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">June 16, 2025</a></blockquote> <script async src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script>

<blockquote class="twitter-tweet">Beyond weird <a href="https://t.co/wJTIeYx21j">https://t.co/wJTIeYx21j</a>&mdash; Rory Dollard (@thervd) <a href="https://twitter.com/thervd/status/1934602094293500284?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">June 16, 2025</a></blockquote> <script async src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script>

<blockquote class="twitter-tweet">If you blink at the wrong time, you’ll miss the only shot of Pat Cummins. Jay Shah on the other hand… <a href="https://t.co/15eZ1rw3Mh">https://t.co/15eZ1rw3Mh</a>&mdash; Andrew Wu (@wutube) <a href="https://twitter.com/wutube/status/1934608156673642997?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">June 16, 2025</a></blockquote> <script async src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script>

<blockquote class="twitter-tweet">Who said India didn&#39;t play the final? <a href="https://t.co/c0dkH7F7a2">https://t.co/c0dkH7F7a2</a>&mdash; Rudransh Khurana (@rudraaaansh) <a href="https://twitter.com/rudraaaansh/status/1934611945208115476?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">June 16, 2025</a></blockquote> <script async src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script>

‘Extra coverage’ of Jay Shah in ICC’s video celebrating WTC Final shocks fans

The ICC posted a 45-second video celebrating WTC Final 2025 success; however, the fans are in splits over them providing ‘extra coverage’ to the newly-appointed ICC chairman, Jay Shah, who, by count, has 11 cuts dedicated to him during the video. The video begins with a wide-angle shot of the Lord’s balcony, with Shah appearing in the second cut itself. While the editor did try and put everything inside it, from the teams walking out for the first day play to Temba Bavuma celebrating after creating history as the Proteas captain, all, however, included at least one shot of Jay Shah. Also read | India to play 18 Tests, AUS 22 and SL just 12 in next WTC cycle – Mathews exposes disparity in red-ball cricket calendar Though a section of fans have been grateful to him for his contribution as the BCCI secretary in his previous position, a massive chunk of those have come down hard on the ICC for posting such an ‘out-of-place’ video under the caption, “A fantastic #WTC25 Final at Lord's with the @proteasmencsa lifting the mace on day four after defeating the defending champions @ausmencricket,” with most of the shots belonging to Shah.

While the editor did try and put everything inside it, from the teams walking out for the first day play to Temba Bavuma celebrating after creating history as the Proteas captain, all, however, included at least one shot of Jay Shah.

'Beyond weird': ICC posts 45-second video celebrating WTC Final, shows Jay Shah 11 times; fans react

Sri Lanka will play just 12 matches in the next WTC cycle, while India is playing 18, and Australia leads the chart with 22 scheduled Tests in the course of the next two years.&nbsp;Considering the finances, engagement and revenue, are behind the Big Three (AUS, IND and ENG) getting the biggest chunk of schedule in red-ball cricket, Mathews, who plays his last Test against Bangladesh starting Tuesday (June 17) in Galle, has batted for more Tests for teams outside of them, labelling it sad for them and the game.&nbsp;Also read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/ravichandran-ashwin-locked-in-ball-tampering-controversy-in-tnpl-2025-dindigul-dragons-madurai-panthers-1750078178105">Ravi Ashwin locked in ball-tampering controversy in TNPL 2025; organisers ask Madurai Panthers for proof</a> &nbsp;Let alone in the next WTC cycle (2025-27), where Sri Lanka plays a dozen Tests – the joint-lowest alongside Bangladesh, they are scheduled to play just four matches this year – their lowest in a calendar year since 2013. Playing even fewer games than they did in the previous cycle (2023-25), Mathews feels like those teams have achieved a lot across formats, even Sri Lanka has, and like them, Sri Lanka also deserves to play more matches. &nbsp;"I think it's quite sad, to be honest," Mathews said ahead of the first Test between Sri Lanka and Bangladesh in Galle. "I mean, the younger generation are urging for more Test cricket. Test cricket is obviously the pinnacle of cricket. We all should push for more Tests. These guys are so enthusiastic about Test cricket.&nbsp;"I feel there has to be a minimum of 10 matches at least [in a year]. Teams like England, India or Australia are playing 15-plus games a year. Why can't we play? We can. If we keep pushing, I mean, we have to. We have won World Cups. We have done so much for cricket as a nation, and we deserve to play Test cricket, just like Australia, India and England,” he continued. &nbsp;Although Mathews is not the first and only Sri Lankan to complain about it on a public forum, his decision to retire from the format in which he’s played 118 matches due to this same reason is what concerns Test cricket lovers. &nbsp;"I played my 100th Test in Galle, so I thought I'd say goodbye in Galle. But the main reason was because we don't have any games coming up, at least for now. After this, we'll be having our next assignment in Test cricket after a year's time, that is a very long wait," Mathews noted. &nbsp;"I thought it's good to give an opportunity to whoever is going to replace me in the second Test because he's not going to get an opportunity till the next year (laughs). And in that year, you don't know what's going to happen. So I thought I'd just play one game and then try and give an opportunity to the other guy who's replacing me in the second Test,” he concluded.

SL vs BAN 2025: Angelo Mathews exposes disparity in Test cricket calendar

Sri Lanka will play just 12 matches in the next WTC cycle, while India is playing 18, and Australia leads the chart with 22 scheduled Tests in the course of the next two years. Considering the finances, engagement and revenue, are behind the Big Three (AUS, IND and ENG) getting the biggest chunk of schedule in red-ball cricket, Mathews, who plays his last Test against Bangladesh starting Tuesday (June 17) in Galle, has batted for more Tests for teams outside of them, labelling it sad for them and the game. Also read | Ravi Ashwin locked in ball-tampering controversy in TNPL 2025; organisers ask Madurai Panthers for proof Let alone in the next WTC cycle (2025-27), where Sri Lanka plays a dozen Tests – the joint-lowest alongside Bangladesh, they are scheduled to play just four matches this year – their lowest in a calendar year since 2013. Playing even fewer games than they did in the previous cycle (2023-25), Mathews feels like those teams have achieved a lot across formats, even Sri Lanka has, and like them, Sri Lanka also deserves to play more matches. "I think it's quite sad, to be honest," Mathews said ahead of the first Test between Sri Lanka and Bangladesh in Galle. "I mean, the younger generation are urging for more Test cricket. Test cricket is obviously the pinnacle of cricket. We all should push for more Tests. These guys are so enthusiastic about Test cricket. "I feel there has to be a minimum of 10 matches at least [in a year]. Teams like England, India or Australia are playing 15-plus games a year. Why can't we play? We can. If we keep pushing, I mean, we have to. We have won World Cups. We have done so much for cricket as a nation, and we deserve to play Test cricket, just like Australia, India and England,” he continued. Although Mathews is not the first and only Sri Lankan to complain about it on a public forum, his decision to retire from the format in which he’s played 118 matches due to this same reason is what concerns Test cricket lovers. "I played my 100th Test in Galle, so I thought I'd say goodbye in Galle. But the main reason was because we don't have any games coming up, at least for now. After this, we'll be having our next assignment in Test cricket after a year's time, that is a very long wait," Mathews noted. "I thought it's good to give an opportunity to whoever is going to replace me in the second Test because he's not going to get an opportunity till the next year (laughs). And in that year, you don't know what's going to happen. So I thought I'd just play one game and then try and give an opportunity to the other guy who's replacing me in the second Test,” he concluded.

Let alone in the next WTC cycle (2025-27), where Sri Lanka plays a dozen Tests – the joint-lowest alongside Bangladesh, they are scheduled to play just four matches this year – their lowest in a calendar year since 2013.

India to play 18 Tests, AUS 22 and SL just 12 in next WTC cycle – Mathews exposes disparity in red-ball cricket calendar

Days after making headlines for showing dissent over an umpire’s call that resulted in his dismissal, former India spinner Ravichandran Ashwin is now locked in a ball-tampering controversy during the ongoing Tamil Nadu Premier League (TNPL) edition. The organisers, however, have asked Madurai Panthers, the franchise that wrote an official complaint to TNPL accusing Ashwin and his team of illegal activity, for proof of it.&nbsp;A day after Ashwin’s Dindigul Dragons faced Madurai Panthers in TNPL 2025, the Panthers raised a complaint against the Dragons, accusing them of using towels treated with chemicals to alter the ball’s condition, which resulted in the ball getting heavier and making a metallic sound after coming in contact with the bat.&nbsp; &nbsp;However, considering the gravity of such allegations levelled against a former Indian cricketer and his local franchise, the organisers demanded full proof of it.&nbsp;&nbsp;Also read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/yograj-singh-yuvraj-singh-father-tears-into-bcci-selectors-for-pushing-careers-of-seven-players-into-gutter-ms-dhoni-dravid-laxman-harbhajan-zaheer-1750074514824">Yograj Singh tears into BCCI selectors for pushing careers of ‘these seven players into gutter’</a> &nbsp;“They have filed a complaint, which we have acknowledged. Though they have to lodge any complaints within 24 hours of the game, we have still accepted it and have asked them to furnish proof of their allegations. We will be forming an independent committee if we find there is any truth to their allegations. Without sufficient evidence, it is wrong to put forth such allegations against a player and another franchise. If they don’t provide any evidence, then Madurai will face due sanctions,” TNPL’s CEO Prasanna Kannan said in a chat with The Indian Express. &nbsp;Meanwhile, in the letter to TNPL, the Madurai franchise COO, S Mahesh, wrote, “A serious case of ball tampering occurred during our recent match against Dindigul Dragons. Despite repeated warnings, the Dindigul team blatantly tampered with the ball, using towels that appeared to have been treated with chemicals.”<h2>Rain, cricket and allegations &nbsp;</h2>Considering the ongoing edition coincides with the monsoon season, the matches are often hampered by passing showers, and such was the case with this game the past Saturday (June 14) in Salem, where there was a delayed start.&nbsp; &nbsp;Batting first, Madurai scored 150 for eight, only for Dindigul to complete the chase with nine wickets and more than seven overs remaining. &nbsp;Besides, Prasanna Kannan also explained that it’s for the very reason the organisers themselves provide all players with towels to dry the ball during the game, but in front of the umpires. &nbsp;“They have to dry the ball only using the towels provided by TNPL. And every time the ball is hit for a six or immediately after a dismissal and over-break, umpires regularly check the ball, and they didn’t find any issue with the ball during the said match,” Kannan continued.&nbsp;

Ravi Ashwin locked in ball-tampering controversy in TNPL 2025

Days after making headlines for showing dissent over an umpire’s call that resulted in his dismissal, former India spinner Ravichandran Ashwin is now locked in a ball-tampering controversy during the ongoing Tamil Nadu Premier League (TNPL) edition. The organisers, however, have asked Madurai Panthers, the franchise that wrote an official complaint to TNPL accusing Ashwin and his team of illegal activity, for proof of it. A day after Ashwin’s Dindigul Dragons faced Madurai Panthers in TNPL 2025, the Panthers raised a complaint against the Dragons, accusing them of using towels treated with chemicals to alter the ball’s condition, which resulted in the ball getting heavier and making a metallic sound after coming in contact with the bat. However, considering the gravity of such allegations levelled against a former Indian cricketer and his local franchise, the organisers demanded full proof of it. Also read | Yograj Singh tears into BCCI selectors for pushing careers of ‘these seven players into gutter’ “They have filed a complaint, which we have acknowledged. Though they have to lodge any complaints within 24 hours of the game, we have still accepted it and have asked them to furnish proof of their allegations. We will be forming an independent committee if we find there is any truth to their allegations. Without sufficient evidence, it is wrong to put forth such allegations against a player and another franchise. If they don’t provide any evidence, then Madurai will face due sanctions,” TNPL’s CEO Prasanna Kannan said in a chat with The Indian Express. Meanwhile, in the letter to TNPL, the Madurai franchise COO, S Mahesh, wrote, “A serious case of ball tampering occurred during our recent match against Dindigul Dragons. Despite repeated warnings, the Dindigul team blatantly tampered with the ball, using towels that appeared to have been treated with chemicals.” Rain, cricket and allegations Considering the ongoing edition coincides with the monsoon season, the matches are often hampered by passing showers, and such was the case with this game the past Saturday (June 14) in Salem, where there was a delayed start. Batting first, Madurai scored 150 for eight, only for Dindigul to complete the chase with nine wickets and more than seven overs remaining. Besides, Prasanna Kannan also explained that it’s for the very reason the organisers themselves provide all players with towels to dry the ball during the game, but in front of the umpires. “They have to dry the ball only using the towels provided by TNPL. And every time the ball is hit for a six or immediately after a dismissal and over-break, umpires regularly check the ball, and they didn’t find any issue with the ball during the said match,” Kannan continued.

Considering the gravity of such allegations levelled against a former Indian cricketer and his local franchise, the organisers demanded full proof of it.

Ravi Ashwin locked in ball-tampering controversy in TNPL 2025; organisers ask Madurai Panthers for proof

Yuvraj Singh’s father, Yograj Singh, is again back at making the headlines. After continuously tearing into former India captain MS Dhoni, his leadership style and how it ended several cricketing careers during his tenure as team skipper, Yograj now bashed the BCCI selectors during the late 2000s in his latest outcry.&nbsp;Known for being vocal and loud about his thoughts all these years, Yograj didn’t mince his words in blaming the selection committee for acting spineless and destroying the careers of at least seven cricketers, including Yuvraj Singh, who was responsible for India’s two World Cup wins across formats before that.&nbsp;&nbsp;Also read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/ind-vs-eng-2025-team-india-head-coach-gautam-gambhir-to-rejoin-squad-ahead-of-leeds-test-return-date-announced-mother-health-england-1750070830714">India head coach Gambhir to rejoin squad ahead of Leeds Test, return date announced</a> &nbsp;While Yuvraj was diagnosed with a cancerous tumour called mediastinal seminoma in his left lung shortly after India's 2011 World Cup win at home, his comeback following his recovery never convinced the selectors to hand him the extended rope, unlike Dhoni, per Yograj. &nbsp;Speaking in a recent chat with InsideSport, Yograj blamed the selectors for pushing the careers of prominent cricketers into the gutter during the away tours of England and Australia in 2011/2012. &nbsp;“You destroyed these boys for no reason,” he said. &nbsp;&nbsp;However, all those concerned here include Yograj’s son Yuvraj, former India opener Gautam Gambhir, batter Mohammad Kaif, Test specialists Rahul Dravid and VVS Laxman and bowlers including Zaheer Khan and Harbhajan Singh. While Dravid and Laxman announced their Test retirements soon after, others were phased out from the starting XI across formats, not even included in the 2015 World Cup plan. &nbsp;A Times of India (TOI) report also claims that Yograj recalled turmoil within Indian Cricket following their grandest ICC win in 2011. Yograj also revealed that the selection committee back then, including former cricketer Mohinder Amarnath, wanted to sack MS Dhoni as the India captain after a 0-4 mauling Down Under; however, nothing of that ever happened, thanks to the then-BCCI president, N Srinivasan, who reportedly blocked this move. &nbsp;Meanwhile, despite all of this happening in the background, MS Dhoni remained India’s white-ball captain till 2016 before handing over the baton to Virat Kohli, who led India to massive heights in Tests, especially. Dhoni, however, continued to play till the 2019 ODI World Cup in England, after which he announced his international retirement on August 15 the following year.

Yograj Singh tears into BCCI selectors for pushing careers of seven players into gutter

Yuvraj Singh’s father, Yograj Singh, is again back at making the headlines. After continuously tearing into former India captain MS Dhoni, his leadership style and how it ended several cricketing careers during his tenure as team skipper, Yograj now bashed the BCCI selectors during the late 2000s in his latest outcry. Known for being vocal and loud about his thoughts all these years, Yograj didn’t mince his words in blaming the selection committee for acting spineless and destroying the careers of at least seven cricketers, including Yuvraj Singh, who was responsible for India’s two World Cup wins across formats before that. Also read | India head coach Gambhir to rejoin squad ahead of Leeds Test, return date announced While Yuvraj was diagnosed with a cancerous tumour called mediastinal seminoma in his left lung shortly after India's 2011 World Cup win at home, his comeback following his recovery never convinced the selectors to hand him the extended rope, unlike Dhoni, per Yograj. Speaking in a recent chat with InsideSport, Yograj blamed the selectors for pushing the careers of prominent cricketers into the gutter during the away tours of England and Australia in 2011/2012. “You destroyed these boys for no reason,” he said. However, all those concerned here include Yograj’s son Yuvraj, former India opener Gautam Gambhir, batter Mohammad Kaif, Test specialists Rahul Dravid and VVS Laxman and bowlers including Zaheer Khan and Harbhajan Singh. While Dravid and Laxman announced their Test retirements soon after, others were phased out from the starting XI across formats, not even included in the 2015 World Cup plan. A Times of India (TOI) report also claims that Yograj recalled turmoil within Indian Cricket following their grandest ICC win in 2011. Yograj also revealed that the selection committee back then, including former cricketer Mohinder Amarnath, wanted to sack MS Dhoni as the India captain after a 0-4 mauling Down Under; however, nothing of that ever happened, thanks to the then-BCCI president, N Srinivasan, who reportedly blocked this move. Meanwhile, despite all of this happening in the background, MS Dhoni remained India’s white-ball captain till 2016 before handing over the baton to Virat Kohli, who led India to massive heights in Tests, especially. Dhoni, however, continued to play till the 2019 ODI World Cup in England, after which he announced his international retirement on August 15 the following year.

After continuously tearing into former India captain MS Dhoni, his leadership style and how it ended several cricketing careers during his tenure as team skipper, Yograj now bashed the BCCI selectors during the late 2000s in his latest outcry.

Yograj Singh tears into BCCI selectors for pushing careers of 'these seven players into gutter'

Here’s a look at the five players with the most runs in Test cricket without a century featuring legendary players like Mitchell Starc and Shane Warne. The list also includes Niroshan Dickwella and Tim Southee. 

Here’s a look at the five players with the most runs in Test cricket without a century featuring legendary players like Mitchell Starc and Shane Warne. The list also includes Niroshan Dickwella and Tim Southee.&nbsp;

From Shane Warne to Mitchell Starc, meet 5 batters with most runs in Test cricket without a century

Team India head coach Gautam Gambhir will rejoin the squad in Leeds ahead of the first Test against England starting Friday (June 20) at Headingley. Gautam rushed home last Wednesday to see his ailing mother, a day before the four-day intra-squad game between India-A and the senior men's team got underway in Beckenham.&nbsp;The latest reports suggest that his mother’s health has improved since, and Gambhir will reach England on Tuesday (June 17), reuniting with the Test team in Leeds – the venue for the series opener.&nbsp;Also read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/cricket-india-tour-of-england-sai-sudharsan-hails-washington-sundar-as-mentor-says-he-has-been-my-inspiration-1750061340175">Sai Sudharsan hails 'mentor' Washington Sundar, says ‘he has been my inspiration’</a> &nbsp;Meanwhile, in Gambhir’s absence, Ryan ten Doeschate and Sitanshu Kotak – the two assistant coaches, alongside seamer Morne Morkel, the bowling coach - took charge of the senior team’s preparation, with former India all-rounder and India-A coach Hrishikesh Kanitkar was at the other team’s dugout. &nbsp;The game was played behind closed doors.&nbsp;<h2>What did coaches and players have to say? &nbsp;</h2>It is the first time since 2011 that neither Virat Kohli nor Rohit Sharma is part of a Test squad, home or away, as both announced their respective retirements from this format last month. Though their absence forced the BCCI selection committee and the head coach Gambhir to take some brave calls, including naming Shubman Gill as the new Test skipper, Morkel sounded confident of the team's practice leading up to the Test series. &nbsp; &nbsp;"There's some quality energy in this group, and, you know, that's what you need. You need to go into a Test series confident, you need to have that team spirit in the group, and I think so far they have done a great job,” Morkel said in a chat with bcci.tv. &nbsp;Gill, however, received some backing from teammate and spinner Kuldeep Yadav, who praised him for having all the leadership traits required to guide this new-look team to greater heights. &nbsp;"I have seen over the last three-four sessions that Shubman has the same qualities that I've seen in our previous leadership groups. He's fully ready to lead us,” Kuldeep said after the conclusion of the intra-squad game.&nbsp; &nbsp;Meanwhile, Gambhir would have plenty on his table to cater ahead of the first Test that begins four days from now. While choosing the top four would be the hardest part of his job, considering who fits better in which position, Gambhir would also have to pick the best quicks for the first Test, besides choosing between the three all-rounders, Ravindra Jadeja, Shardul Thakur and Nitish Kumar Reddy.&nbsp;

Head coach Gambhir to rejoin squad ahead of Leeds Test, return date announced

Team India head coach Gautam Gambhir will rejoin the squad in Leeds ahead of the first Test against England starting Friday (June 20) at Headingley. Gautam rushed home last Wednesday to see his ailing mother, a day before the four-day intra-squad game between India-A and the senior men's team got underway in Beckenham. The latest reports suggest that his mother’s health has improved since, and Gambhir will reach England on Tuesday (June 17), reuniting with the Test team in Leeds – the venue for the series opener. Also read | Sai Sudharsan hails 'mentor' Washington Sundar, says ‘he has been my inspiration’ Meanwhile, in Gambhir’s absence, Ryan ten Doeschate and Sitanshu Kotak – the two assistant coaches, alongside seamer Morne Morkel, the bowling coach - took charge of the senior team’s preparation, with former India all-rounder and India-A coach Hrishikesh Kanitkar was at the other team’s dugout. The game was played behind closed doors. What did coaches and players have to say? It is the first time since 2011 that neither Virat Kohli nor Rohit Sharma is part of a Test squad, home or away, as both announced their respective retirements from this format last month. Though their absence forced the BCCI selection committee and the head coach Gambhir to take some brave calls, including naming Shubman Gill as the new Test skipper, Morkel sounded confident of the team's practice leading up to the Test series. "There's some quality energy in this group, and, you know, that's what you need. You need to go into a Test series confident, you need to have that team spirit in the group, and I think so far they have done a great job,” Morkel said in a chat with bcci.tv. Gill, however, received some backing from teammate and spinner Kuldeep Yadav, who praised him for having all the leadership traits required to guide this new-look team to greater heights. "I have seen over the last three-four sessions that Shubman has the same qualities that I've seen in our previous leadership groups. He's fully ready to lead us,” Kuldeep said after the conclusion of the intra-squad game. Meanwhile, Gambhir would have plenty on his table to cater ahead of the first Test that begins four days from now. While choosing the top four would be the hardest part of his job, considering who fits better in which position, Gambhir would also have to pick the best quicks for the first Test, besides choosing between the three all-rounders, Ravindra Jadeja, Shardul Thakur and Nitish Kumar Reddy.

In Gambhir’s absence, Ryan ten Doeschate and Sitanshu Kotak – the two assistant coaches, alongside seamer Morne Morkel, the bowling coach - took charge of the senior team’s preparation during the intra-squad match in Kent.

India head coach Gambhir to rejoin squad ahead of Leeds Test, return date announced

Here is a look at the cricket legends who called time on their Test career in WTC 2023-25 cycle featuring Virat Kohli, Ravichandran Ashwin, Rohit Sharma, Stuart Broad and James Anderson.

Here's a look at the cricket legends who called time on their Test career in WTC 2023-25 cycle featuring Virat Kohli, Ravichandran Ashwin, Rohit Sharma, Stuart Broad and James Anderson.

7 Players who called time on their Test career in WTC 2023-25 cycle, three Indians on the list

India’s Sai Sudharsan has hailed the impact of Washington Sundar as they gear up for the England series, starting June 20. Both Sundar and Sudharsan will be part of the new-looked Indian team as they prepare for the five-match Test series against England. According to Sudharsan, Sundar has played a key role in his growth which now sees him fight for a spot in the Indian team’s Playing XI ahead of the England series.&nbsp;<h2>Sudharsan hails Sundar’s impact</h2>"He has been my inspiration since I was young. I have played a few games against him, so it is always special. To be honest, we have looked up to him a lot. I have practiced once or twice (against Sundar), the way he went up and the way he played for the country, it was really quick, so I had that in my mind.&nbsp;&nbsp;ALSO READ | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/cricket-women-s-odi-world-cup-2025-colombo-to-host-india-vs-pakistan-on-october-5-1750051342351">Women's ODI World Cup 2025: Colombo to host India vs Pakistan on October 5</a>&nbsp;“He did well in the IPL, and then he played for the country. So it was a great motivator for me from Chennai. Knowing him since I was young, playing with him, is kind of inspiring. It made me feel I want to do things the same way," Sudharsan said.&nbsp;&nbsp;The new-looked Indian team will be led by Shubman Gill as he takes charge for the first time as permanent skipper of the side. The England series won’t feature the likes of Rohit Sharma, Virat Kohli and Ravichandran Ashwin, who all hung their boots after the Australia tour.<h2>India tour of England 2025</h2>1st Test: 20 June to 24 June, Headingley, Leeds2nd Test: 2 July to 6 July, Edgbaston, Birmingham3rd Test: 10 July to 14 July, Lord's, London4th Test: 23 July to 27 July, Emirates Old Trafford, Manchester5th Test: 31 July to 4 August, Kennington Oval, London

India’s Sai Sudharsan has hailed the impact of Washington Sundar as they gear up for the England series, starting June 20. 

India’s Sai Sudharsan has hailed the impact of Washington Sundar as they gear up for the England series, starting June 20. Both Sundar and Sudharsan will be part of the new-looked Indian team as they prepare for the five-match Test series against England. According to Sudharsan, Sundar has played a key role in his growth which now sees him fight for a spot in the Indian team’s Playing XI ahead of the England series. Sudharsan hails Sundar’s impact "He has been my inspiration since I was young. I have played a few games against him, so it is always special. To be honest, we have looked up to him a lot. I have practiced once or twice (against Sundar), the way he went up and the way he played for the country, it was really quick, so I had that in my mind. ALSO READ | Women's ODI World Cup 2025: Colombo to host India vs Pakistan on October 5 “He did well in the IPL, and then he played for the country. So it was a great motivator for me from Chennai. Knowing him since I was young, playing with him, is kind of inspiring. It made me feel I want to do things the same way," Sudharsan said. The new-looked Indian team will be led by Shubman Gill as he takes charge for the first time as permanent skipper of the side. The England series won’t feature the likes of Rohit Sharma, Virat Kohli and Ravichandran Ashwin, who all hung their boots after the Australia tour. India tour of England 2025 1st Test: 20 June to 24 June, Headingley, Leeds 2nd Test: 2 July to 6 July, Edgbaston, Birmingham 3rd Test: 10 July to 14 July, Lord's, London 4th Test: 23 July to 27 July, Emirates Old Trafford, Manchester 5th Test: 31 July to 4 August, Kennington Oval, London

India’s Sai Sudharsan has hailed the impact of Washington Sundar as they gear up for the England series, starting June 20.&nbsp;

Sai Sudharsan hails 'mentor' Washington Sundar, says 'he has been my inspiration'

The draft schedule for the ICC Women’s ODI World Cup was released on Monday (June 16) as the high-profile fixture between India and Pakistan is set to take place on October 5 in Colombo. India the official hosts of the ODI World Cup will be joined by Sri Lanka’s Colombo to host Pakistan’s matches during the coveted tournament. The Women’s ODI World Cup is set to kick off on September 30 with the final taking place on November 2.&nbsp;<h2>India vs Pakistan on October 5</h2>Amid the rising diplomatic tensions between India and Pakistan, the ICC has decided to move the high-voltage fixture to Sri Lanka as part of the hybrid model. The two nations reached an agreement during the ICC Champions Trophy when India refused to travel to Pakistan. As part of the agreement, neither India nor Pakistan will tour each other for any ICC tournament with the fixtures taking place at a neutral venue.<h2>Key fixtures</h2>Sept 30 - Ind vs SL, BengaluruOct 1 - Aus vs NZ, IndoreOct 3 - SA vs Eng, BengaluruOct 5 - Ind vs Pak, ColomboOct 6 - SA vs NZ, IndoreOct 11 - SL vs Eng, GuwahatiOct 15 - Pak vs Eng, ColomboOct 22 - Eng vs Aus, IndoreOct 25 - SA vs Aus, IndoreOct 26 (day) Eng vs NZ, GuwahatiOct 26 - Ind vs Ban, BengaluruOct 29 - SF 1, Guwahati/ColomboOct 30 - SF 2, BengaluruNov 2 - Final, Bengaluru/Colombo&nbsp;The tournament will feature 28 league games followed by three knockouts, with matches spread across Bengaluru, Indore, Guwahati, Visakhapatnam and Colombo. The first semi-final is slated for either Guwahati or Colombo - depending on Pakistan's progression - on October 29 while the second semi-final will be in Bengaluru on October 30. The final, on November 2, will be held in either Bengaluru or Colombo.&nbsp;India are hosting the women's ODI World Cup for the first time since 2013. The format for the 2025 tournament will be the same as in 2022, with each of the eight teams playing the other in a round-robin format, with the top four making the semi-finals.

The draft schedule for the ICC Women’s ODI World Cup was released on Monday (June 16) as the high-profile fixture between India and Pakistan is set to take place on October 5 in Colombo.

The draft schedule for the ICC Women’s ODI World Cup was released on Monday (June 16) as the high-profile fixture between India and Pakistan is set to take place on October 5 in Colombo. India the official hosts of the ODI World Cup will be joined by Sri Lanka’s Colombo to host Pakistan’s matches during the coveted tournament. The Women’s ODI World Cup is set to kick off on September 30 with the final taking place on November 2. India vs Pakistan on October 5 Amid the rising diplomatic tensions between India and Pakistan, the ICC has decided to move the high-voltage fixture to Sri Lanka as part of the hybrid model. The two nations reached an agreement during the ICC Champions Trophy when India refused to travel to Pakistan. As part of the agreement, neither India nor Pakistan will tour each other for any ICC tournament with the fixtures taking place at a neutral venue. Key fixtures Sept 30 - Ind vs SL, Bengaluru Oct 1 - Aus vs NZ, Indore Oct 3 - SA vs Eng, Bengaluru Oct 5 - Ind vs Pak, Colombo Oct 6 - SA vs NZ, Indore Oct 11 - SL vs Eng, Guwahati Oct 15 - Pak vs Eng, Colombo Oct 22 - Eng vs Aus, Indore Oct 25 - SA vs Aus, Indore Oct 26 (day) Eng vs NZ, Guwahati Oct 26 - Ind vs Ban, Bengaluru Oct 29 - SF 1, Guwahati/Colombo Oct 30 - SF 2, Bengaluru Nov 2 - Final, Bengaluru/Colombo The tournament will feature 28 league games followed by three knockouts, with matches spread across Bengaluru, Indore, Guwahati, Visakhapatnam and Colombo. The first semi-final is slated for either Guwahati or Colombo - depending on Pakistan's progression - on October 29 while the second semi-final will be in Bengaluru on October 30. The final, on November 2, will be held in either Bengaluru or Colombo. India are hosting the women's ODI World Cup for the first time since 2013. The format for the 2025 tournament will be the same as in 2022, with each of the eight teams playing the other in a round-robin format, with the top four making the semi-finals.

The draft schedule for the ICC Women’s ODI World Cup was released on Monday (June 16) as the high-profile fixture between India and Pakistan is set to take place on October 5 in Colombo.

Women's ODI World Cup 2025: Colombo to host India vs Pakistan on October 5

Pakistan defence minister Khawaja Asif has made a bizarre claim while addressing the parliament, leading a widespread social media criticism. Speaking in the Parliament of Pakistan, Asif claimed that the stadium floodlight in an IPL 2025 match was hacked by Pakistanis during the near-war situation between India and Pakistan in May. In a widespread ridicule, he also claimed that waters in the dam were also released by the so-called Pakistani hackers, ill-praising them during his address.&nbsp;<h2>Pakistan defence minister makes bizarre claim</h2>“The IPL was stopped and the lights of the stadium were turned off, waters in the dams were released, all these cyber attacks were done by our children,” Asif said while addressing the Pakistan Parliament.&nbsp;The comment comes more than a month after both India and Pakistan agreed on a ceasefire in what was a near-war situation between the two neighbours. In May, India launched Operation Sindoor as a retaliation to the Pahalgam terror attacks of April 22.&nbsp;Operation Sindoor, launched on May 6 saw high tensions between India and Pakistan, which later led to the suspension of the Indian Premier League (IPL 2025).&nbsp;&nbsp;As part of the military precautionary action, a blackout was observed during an IPL match between Punjab Kings and Delhi Capitals in Dharamsala on May 8. This led to floodlights being shut and later postponement of the IPL contest between PBKS and DC.&nbsp;&nbsp;However, Pak’s defence minister claimed that the blackout was a hacking operation done by Pakistan cyber cell.&nbsp;&nbsp;The claim has since been met with huge criticism on social media, “I didn’t know Cyber has different concepts and syllabus in Pakistan!" one of the X user’s comments read.&nbsp;“IPL floodlights don’t run on WiFi, they run on secure electrical systems. You can’t hack them like a home router. Next time, try hacking the scoreboard—at least it has buttons," another user commented on the claim.&nbsp;“Even China and the USA are asking – How did Pakistanis do this magic?" another one commented.

Speaking in the Parliament of Pakistan, Asif claimed that the stadium floodlight in an IPL 2025 match was hacked by Pakistanis during the near-war situation between India and Pakistan in May.

Pakistan defence minister Khawaja Asif has made a bizarre claim while addressing the parliament, leading a widespread social media criticism. Speaking in the Parliament of Pakistan, Asif claimed that the stadium floodlight in an IPL 2025 match was hacked by Pakistanis during the near-war situation between India and Pakistan in May. In a widespread ridicule, he also claimed that waters in the dam were also released by the so-called Pakistani hackers, ill-praising them during his address. Pakistan defence minister makes bizarre claim “The IPL was stopped and the lights of the stadium were turned off, waters in the dams were released, all these cyber attacks were done by our children,” Asif said while addressing the Pakistan Parliament. The comment comes more than a month after both India and Pakistan agreed on a ceasefire in what was a near-war situation between the two neighbours. In May, India launched Operation Sindoor as a retaliation to the Pahalgam terror attacks of April 22. Operation Sindoor, launched on May 6 saw high tensions between India and Pakistan, which later led to the suspension of the Indian Premier League (IPL 2025). As part of the military precautionary action, a blackout was observed during an IPL match between Punjab Kings and Delhi Capitals in Dharamsala on May 8. This led to floodlights being shut and later postponement of the IPL contest between PBKS and DC. However, Pak’s defence minister claimed that the blackout was a hacking operation done by Pakistan cyber cell. The claim has since been met with huge criticism on social media, “I didn’t know Cyber has different concepts and syllabus in Pakistan!" one of the X user’s comments read. “IPL floodlights don’t run on WiFi, they run on secure electrical systems. You can’t hack them like a home router. Next time, try hacking the scoreboard—at least it has buttons," another user commented on the claim. “Even China and the USA are asking – How did Pakistanis do this magic?" another one commented.

Speaking in the Parliament of Pakistan, Asif claimed that the stadium floodlight in an IPL 2025 match was hacked by Pakistanis during the near-war situation between India and Pakistan in May.

Pakistan defence minister makes bizarre claim, says 'hacked floodlights during IPL 2025'

Pole Vaulter Mondo Duplantis has continued his hot streak as he broke the record for the highest jump for a record-breaking 12th time on Sunday (June 15) in the Wanda Diamond League. Duplantis, having made headlines at the Paris Olympics in 2024 scripted the historic moment in his native Sweden at the 1912 Olympic Stadium, marking a special occasion. He soared at 6.28 metres, breaking the previous record set by him in February at Clermont-Ferrand.<h2>Duplantis continues hot streak</h2>“I feel full to the brim right now. I've got a lot of family here. The first time I jumped in this stadium when I was 11 years old, it was rainy and cold, and I jumped right under four metres – it was quite high for how young I was. I'm just going to enjoy this, enjoy the moment right now,” said Duplantis after breaking his world record.&nbsp;“They etch the names of world record holders here. It's going to be really special to have my name etched in the stadium. It's the most beautiful stadium, in my biased opinion. It'll be one of the greatest memories for me, I think, in my career. There's not much between me and 6.30m, technically. I'm just a perfect day away from it,” he added.&nbsp;The 25-year-old Swede was in the form of his life last year at the Paris Games having won the gold medal in Pole Vault. Duplantis jumped at 6.25 metres to win and defend the Olympic crown in Paris, having earlier won a gold medal at the Tokyo Games.&nbsp;<h2>Pole Vault All Time Records</h2><ol><li>6.28 m (20 ft 8 in)&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp; Armand Duplantis - June 15, 2025</li><li>6.27 m (20 ft 7 in)&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp; Armand Duplantis - Feb 28, 2025</li><li>6.26 m (20 ft 6+1⁄2 in)&nbsp;&nbsp; Armand Duplantis - August 25, 2024</li><li>6.25 m (20 ft 6 in)&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp; Armand Duplantis - August 5, 2024</li><li>6.24 m (20 ft 5+1⁄2 in)&nbsp;&nbsp; Armand Duplantis - April 20, 2024</li><li>6.23 m (20 ft 5+1⁄4 in)&nbsp;&nbsp; Armand Duplantis - September 17, 2023</li></ol>&nbsp;Earlier in the year, Duplantis set a record of 6.27 metres at the Clermont-Ferrand, setting a new benchmark in Pole Vault. However, that record lasted a mere few months as the Swede took the sweet stage of his home support at the 1912 Olympic Stadium to write his name in the history books.

Pole Vaulter Mondo Duplantis has continued his hot streak as he broke the record for the highest jump for a record-breaking 12th time on Sunday (June 15) in the Wanda Diamond League. 

Pole Vaulter Mondo Duplantis has continued his hot streak as he broke the record for the highest jump for a record-breaking 12th time on Sunday (June 15) in the Wanda Diamond League. Duplantis, having made headlines at the Paris Olympics in 2024 scripted the historic moment in his native Sweden at the 1912 Olympic Stadium, marking a special occasion. He soared at 6.28 metres, breaking the previous record set by him in February at Clermont-Ferrand. Duplantis continues hot streak “I feel full to the brim right now. I've got a lot of family here. The first time I jumped in this stadium when I was 11 years old, it was rainy and cold, and I jumped right under four metres – it was quite high for how young I was. I'm just going to enjoy this, enjoy the moment right now,” said Duplantis after breaking his world record. “They etch the names of world record holders here. It's going to be really special to have my name etched in the stadium. It's the most beautiful stadium, in my biased opinion. It'll be one of the greatest memories for me, I think, in my career. There's not much between me and 6.30m, technically. I'm just a perfect day away from it,” he added. The 25-year-old Swede was in the form of his life last year at the Paris Games having won the gold medal in Pole Vault. Duplantis jumped at 6.25 metres to win and defend the Olympic crown in Paris, having earlier won a gold medal at the Tokyo Games. Pole Vault All Time Records 6.28 m (20 ft 8 in) Armand Duplantis - June 15, 2025 6.27 m (20 ft 7 in) Armand Duplantis - Feb 28, 2025 6.26 m (20 ft 6+1⁄2 in) Armand Duplantis - August 25, 2024 6.25 m (20 ft 6 in) Armand Duplantis - August 5, 2024 6.24 m (20 ft 5+1⁄2 in) Armand Duplantis - April 20, 2024 6.23 m (20 ft 5+1⁄4 in) Armand Duplantis - September 17, 2023 Earlier in the year, Duplantis set a record of 6.27 metres at the Clermont-Ferrand, setting a new benchmark in Pole Vault. However, that record lasted a mere few months as the Swede took the sweet stage of his home support at the 1912 Olympic Stadium to write his name in the history books.

Pole Vaulter Mondo Duplantis has continued his hot streak as he broke the record for the highest jump for a record-breaking 12th time on Sunday (June 15) in the Wanda Diamond League.&nbsp;

Mondo Duplantis continues hot streak at Wanda Diamond League, breaks world record for whopping 12th time

George Russell secured Mercedes' first win of the season in the Canadian Grand Prix on Sunday as McLaren's championship-chasing drivers crashed in the final laps of an intriguing and hectic race.&nbsp;The 27-year-old Briton beat close rival and four-time world champion Max Verstappen of Red Bull by 0.228 seconds under the safety car to claim his fourth career victory with his teenage Mercedes team-mate Kimi Antonelli finishing third.&nbsp;The 18-year-old Italian rookie became the third-youngest podium finisher in Formula One history, showing composure in resisting late intense late pressure from championship leader Oscar Piastri of McLaren, who survived a collision with team-mate Lando Norris, on his way to fourth.&nbsp;That ensured he extended his lead in the drivers' standings to 22 points ahead of Norris who crashed into him on lap 67 of the 70-lap race, breaking his front wing as he attempted to pass on the straight.&nbsp;"Yep, I'm sorry," said Norris of his crash with Piastri. "It's all my bad, all my fault. Unlucky, sorry. Stupid from me."&nbsp;Charles Leclerc finished fifth ahead of Ferrari team-mate Lewis Hamilton, Fernando Alonso of Aston Martin and Sauber's Nico Hulkenberg.&nbsp;Esteban Ocon finished ninth for Haas, marking their 200th race with a solid points finish, ahead of Carlos Sainz for Williams.&nbsp;Russell was delighted to deliver his team's first win since the Las Vegas Grand Prix last year.&nbsp;"It's amazing to be back on the top step. The last time was Vegas and last year here felt like it was a victory lost. But today we obviously got the victory thanks to that incredible pole lap and I am so happy to see Kimi on the podium as well."&nbsp;Verstappen was quick to congratulate both Mercedes drivers.&nbsp;"It was quite a good race although we were struggling on the tyres in the first two stints. We had an aggressive strategy and we managed to hang in there. And this was the maximum possible for us today."&nbsp;Antonelli was greeted enthusiastically by the big crowd at the Circuit Gilles Villeneuve with his name chanted as he took his podium place.&nbsp;"It was so stressful," he said. "But I am super happy! I had a good start, managed to jump to P3, and just stayed up there in the front. I am so happy to bring this podium home."<h2>Antonelli overtakes Piastri at start</h2>The top six were all on mediums when the lights went out, Russell reacting quickest to pull clear while Antonelli passed Piastri for third.&nbsp;Verstappen clung on to Russell's early pace, staying within a second of him throughout the opening five laps, and three clear of Antonelli, as he tried to put him under pressure, but by lap seven the Mercedes was 1.5 seconds clear.&nbsp;By lap 10, it was two seconds as the Dutchman eased to save his tyres before pitting early on lap 13, for hards. This promoted Antonelli to P2 behind Russell with Piastri third ahead of Hamilton, Norris and Alonso.&nbsp;Verstappen rejoined ninth as Russell reacted and pitted, returning in seventh on hards before Antonelli pitted from the lead on lap 15 leaving Piastri leading Norris in a McLaren 1-2.&nbsp;Piastri pitted on lap 17 for hards, gifting Norris the lead after starting seventh on hards.After a bright start, Hamilton pitted on lap 16 and came out trapped 10th in traffic, with reported damage to his car, that delayed his pursuit before Russell, on lap 26, swept past Leclerc for second.&nbsp;Two laps later, Leclerc pitted for more hards followed by Norris, who took mediums. "I don't understand this choice," complained Leclerc, knowing it meant he had to pit again.All this restored Russell and Verstappen to lead again ahead of Antonelli and Piastri with Norris charging in fifth, ahead of the two Ferraris.&nbsp;Verstappen was early to pit again, on lap 37, but with a fast out-lap passed Antonelli, as Mercedes responded in vain to the Red Bull under-cut and began the second stops.&nbsp;Only five seconds separated the top four as they began a furious final 10-lap dash to the flag that resulted in the McLarens battling wheel-to-wheel for fourth place near the end when Norris hit the rear of his team-mate's car and crashed out of the race.&nbsp;&nbsp;Disclaimer: This story has been published from a news agency feed with minimal edits to adhere to WION's style guide. The headline may have been changed to better reflect the content of the story or to make it more suitable for WION audience.

George Russell secured Mercedes first win of the season in the Canadian Grand Prix on Sunday as McLaren championship-chasing drivers crashed in the final laps of an intriguing and hectic race.

George Russell secured Mercedes' first win of the season in the Canadian Grand Prix on Sunday as McLaren's championship-chasing drivers crashed in the final laps of an intriguing and hectic race. The 27-year-old Briton beat close rival and four-time world champion Max Verstappen of Red Bull by 0.228 seconds under the safety car to claim his fourth career victory with his teenage Mercedes team-mate Kimi Antonelli finishing third. The 18-year-old Italian rookie became the third-youngest podium finisher in Formula One history, showing composure in resisting late intense late pressure from championship leader Oscar Piastri of McLaren, who survived a collision with team-mate Lando Norris, on his way to fourth. That ensured he extended his lead in the drivers' standings to 22 points ahead of Norris who crashed into him on lap 67 of the 70-lap race, breaking his front wing as he attempted to pass on the straight. "Yep, I'm sorry," said Norris of his crash with Piastri. "It's all my bad, all my fault. Unlucky, sorry. Stupid from me." Charles Leclerc finished fifth ahead of Ferrari team-mate Lewis Hamilton, Fernando Alonso of Aston Martin and Sauber's Nico Hulkenberg. Esteban Ocon finished ninth for Haas, marking their 200th race with a solid points finish, ahead of Carlos Sainz for Williams. Russell was delighted to deliver his team's first win since the Las Vegas Grand Prix last year. "It's amazing to be back on the top step. The last time was Vegas and last year here felt like it was a victory lost. But today we obviously got the victory thanks to that incredible pole lap and I am so happy to see Kimi on the podium as well." Verstappen was quick to congratulate both Mercedes drivers. "It was quite a good race although we were struggling on the tyres in the first two stints. We had an aggressive strategy and we managed to hang in there. And this was the maximum possible for us today." Antonelli was greeted enthusiastically by the big crowd at the Circuit Gilles Villeneuve with his name chanted as he took his podium place. "It was so stressful," he said. "But I am super happy! I had a good start, managed to jump to P3, and just stayed up there in the front. I am so happy to bring this podium home." Antonelli overtakes Piastri at start The top six were all on mediums when the lights went out, Russell reacting quickest to pull clear while Antonelli passed Piastri for third. Verstappen clung on to Russell's early pace, staying within a second of him throughout the opening five laps, and three clear of Antonelli, as he tried to put him under pressure, but by lap seven the Mercedes was 1.5 seconds clear. By lap 10, it was two seconds as the Dutchman eased to save his tyres before pitting early on lap 13, for hards. This promoted Antonelli to P2 behind Russell with Piastri third ahead of Hamilton, Norris and Alonso. Verstappen rejoined ninth as Russell reacted and pitted, returning in seventh on hards before Antonelli pitted from the lead on lap 15 leaving Piastri leading Norris in a McLaren 1-2. Piastri pitted on lap 17 for hards, gifting Norris the lead after starting seventh on hards. After a bright start, Hamilton pitted on lap 16 and came out trapped 10th in traffic, with reported damage to his car, that delayed his pursuit before Russell, on lap 26, swept past Leclerc for second. Two laps later, Leclerc pitted for more hards followed by Norris, who took mediums. "I don't understand this choice," complained Leclerc, knowing it meant he had to pit again. All this restored Russell and Verstappen to lead again ahead of Antonelli and Piastri with Norris charging in fifth, ahead of the two Ferraris. Verstappen was early to pit again, on lap 37, but with a fast out-lap passed Antonelli, as Mercedes responded in vain to the Red Bull under-cut and began the second stops. Only five seconds separated the top four as they began a furious final 10-lap dash to the flag that resulted in the McLarens battling wheel-to-wheel for fourth place near the end when Norris hit the rear of his team-mate's car and crashed out of the race. Disclaimer: This story has been published from a news agency feed with minimal edits to adhere to WION's style guide. The headline may have been changed to better reflect the content of the story or to make it more suitable for WION audience.

George Russell secured Mercedes' first win of the season in the Canadian Grand Prix on Sunday as McLaren's championship-chasing drivers crashed in the final laps of an intriguing and hectic race.

Formula One: George Russell triumphs in Canada as McLaren drivers crash

Paris Saint-Germain laid down an ominous marker on their march towards global domination at the FIFA Club World Cup on Sunday as Bayern Munich showed no mercy to Auckland's amateurs with a ruthless 10-0 walloping.&nbsp;The first full day of action at the inaugural edition of the 32-team club tournament saw newly crowned European champions PSG produce a scintillating 4-0 rout of Atletico Madrid after Bayern's double-digit drubbing of Auckland City.&nbsp;The New Zealand minnows are one of the Cinderella stories of the tournament, made up of amateur players who had to take unpaid leave to travel to the United States.&nbsp;But Bundesliga Goliaths Bayern were in no mood to indulge the Davids from the Oceania region, and duly ran riot in Cincinnati.&nbsp;Jamal Musiala scored a second-half hat-trick after coming off the bench while Kingsley Coman, Michael Olise and Thomas Mueller all netted twice.&nbsp;Sacha Boey scored the other goal in a Group C game that amounted to target practice for Bayern, who will face tougher tests ahead in the tournament against Boca Juniors and Benfica.&nbsp;"We have to remain modest but it was important to be able to say that we took the game seriously," said Bayern coach Vincent Kompany.&nbsp;"It was a good first match at the tournament, but of course challenges are going to grow and it's going to become more difficult."&nbsp;Auckland's interim coach Ivan Vicelich admitted that his team had run into the "reality of football against one of the world's top teams."&nbsp;"It is a dream for players coming from an amateur level to play in this environment," Vicelich said.&nbsp;"We knew it was going to be a very difficult game, playing against one of the top teams in the world, potentially one of the favourites for the Club World Cup, so we are just really proud of the players' efforts."<h2>Hungry PSG rout Atleti</h2>While Bayern were left satisfied with a clinical opening, PSG delivered a statement win over Atleti in front of an 80,619 crowd at a sun-baked Pasadena Rose Bowl -- the venue for the 1994 World Cup final.&nbsp;The French champions shrugged off searing heat -- temperatures reached 31 degrees Celsius (87.8 Fahrenheit) shortly after the midday kick-off -- to produce the kind of adventurous, attacking display which became their calling card en route to their dazzling Champions League triumph earlier this month.&nbsp;Fabian Ruiz and Vitinha gave PSG a 2-0 lead by half-time before Senny Mayulu and Lee Kang-In sealed an impressive Group B win with late goals against an Atleti team who struggled to cope with the French side's multi-faceted attacking play.&nbsp;PSG are bidding to crown a superb season which saw them win four trophies at home and in Europe with a fifth title.&nbsp;On Sunday's evidence, few would bet against Luis Enrique's side from being crowned world champions.&nbsp;"We had the objective of making history this season, but this is a new chapter," Luis Enrique said in his post-match news conference.&nbsp;"It's a nice challenge for the players and the team, to want to keep winning."The club is hungry, the fans are hungry, the players and the team are hungry, and that's a good feeling. We have the same objective as in other competitions, which is to go as far as possible and try to win it."&nbsp;Atletico manager Diego Simeone refused to cite the heat as a factor in his team's defeat."I cannot blame it on the heat -- we both played in the same weather conditions," Simeone said. "They played much better than we did. They have amazing players and that's why they've just won everything."&nbsp;In other games on Sunday, Brazil's Palmeiras drew 0-0 with Portuguese giants Porto in Group A at MetLife Stadium in New Jersey.Another Brazilian side, Botafogo, face the Seattle Sounders in Group B later.&nbsp;Disclaimer: This story has been published from a news agency feed with minimal edits to adhere to WION's style guide. The headline may have been changed to better reflect the content of the story or to make it more suitable for WION audience.

Paris Saint-Germain laid down an ominous marker on their march towards global domination at the FIFA Club World Cup on Sunday as Bayern Munich showed no mercy to Auckland amateurs with a ruthless 10-0 walloping.

Paris Saint-Germain laid down an ominous marker on their march towards global domination at the FIFA Club World Cup on Sunday as Bayern Munich showed no mercy to Auckland's amateurs with a ruthless 10-0 walloping. The first full day of action at the inaugural edition of the 32-team club tournament saw newly crowned European champions PSG produce a scintillating 4-0 rout of Atletico Madrid after Bayern's double-digit drubbing of Auckland City. The New Zealand minnows are one of the Cinderella stories of the tournament, made up of amateur players who had to take unpaid leave to travel to the United States. But Bundesliga Goliaths Bayern were in no mood to indulge the Davids from the Oceania region, and duly ran riot in Cincinnati. Jamal Musiala scored a second-half hat-trick after coming off the bench while Kingsley Coman, Michael Olise and Thomas Mueller all netted twice. Sacha Boey scored the other goal in a Group C game that amounted to target practice for Bayern, who will face tougher tests ahead in the tournament against Boca Juniors and Benfica. "We have to remain modest but it was important to be able to say that we took the game seriously," said Bayern coach Vincent Kompany. "It was a good first match at the tournament, but of course challenges are going to grow and it's going to become more difficult." Auckland's interim coach Ivan Vicelich admitted that his team had run into the "reality of football against one of the world's top teams." "It is a dream for players coming from an amateur level to play in this environment," Vicelich said. "We knew it was going to be a very difficult game, playing against one of the top teams in the world, potentially one of the favourites for the Club World Cup, so we are just really proud of the players' efforts." Hungry PSG rout Atleti While Bayern were left satisfied with a clinical opening, PSG delivered a statement win over Atleti in front of an 80,619 crowd at a sun-baked Pasadena Rose Bowl -- the venue for the 1994 World Cup final. The French champions shrugged off searing heat -- temperatures reached 31 degrees Celsius (87.8 Fahrenheit) shortly after the midday kick-off -- to produce the kind of adventurous, attacking display which became their calling card en route to their dazzling Champions League triumph earlier this month. Fabian Ruiz and Vitinha gave PSG a 2-0 lead by half-time before Senny Mayulu and Lee Kang-In sealed an impressive Group B win with late goals against an Atleti team who struggled to cope with the French side's multi-faceted attacking play. PSG are bidding to crown a superb season which saw them win four trophies at home and in Europe with a fifth title. On Sunday's evidence, few would bet against Luis Enrique's side from being crowned world champions. "We had the objective of making history this season, but this is a new chapter," Luis Enrique said in his post-match news conference. "It's a nice challenge for the players and the team, to want to keep winning. "The club is hungry, the fans are hungry, the players and the team are hungry, and that's a good feeling. We have the same objective as in other competitions, which is to go as far as possible and try to win it." Atletico manager Diego Simeone refused to cite the heat as a factor in his team's defeat. "I cannot blame it on the heat -- we both played in the same weather conditions," Simeone said. "They played much better than we did. They have amazing players and that's why they've just won everything." In other games on Sunday, Brazil's Palmeiras drew 0-0 with Portuguese giants Porto in Group A at MetLife Stadium in New Jersey. Another Brazilian side, Botafogo, face the Seattle Sounders in Group B later. Disclaimer: This story has been published from a news agency feed with minimal edits to adhere to WION's style guide. The headline may have been changed to better reflect the content of the story or to make it more suitable for WION audience.

Paris Saint-Germain laid down an ominous marker on their march towards global domination at the FIFA Club World Cup on Sunday as Bayern Munich showed no mercy to Auckland's amateurs with a ruthless 10-0 walloping.

FIFA Club World Cup 2025: PSG cruise over Atletico, Bayern thrash Auckland

J.J. Spaun sank a 65-foot birdie putt on the final hole to win the US Open on Sunday, capturing his first major title despite bogeys on five of his first six holes.&nbsp;The 34-year-old American finished 72 holes at Oakmont on one-under-par 279 after a closing two-over 72 to defeat Scotland's Robert MacIntyre by two strokes with Norway's Viktor Hovland third on 282.&nbsp;"I never thought I would be holding this trophy," Spaun said. "I'm proud I've been so resilient in my career."&nbsp;Well behind for most of the day, Spaun watched US leader Sam Burns and Australian Adam Scott stumble while he charged back with four birdies on the last seven holes.&nbsp;"I don't think I did keep my composure," Spaun said about his bad start. "I was trying to dig deep and hit some great shots coming in."&nbsp;Spaun, the first US Open champion to bogey the first three holes in his final round, sank a 40-foot birdie putt at the par-five 12th, a 22-foot birdie putt at 14 and answered a bogey at 15 with a clutch tap-in birdie at 17 to grab the lead before rolling in the clincher at 18."When I hit it I thought it was short," Spaun said. "But about eight feet out it was looking pretty good.&nbsp;"It's just one of those moments in major championships when you seal the deal."Spaun, who took home a top prize of $4.3 million, wiped tears from his eyes as spectators chanted his name when he walked off the green.&nbsp;The only prior PGA Tour victory in Spaun's career came at the 2022 Texas Open.Spaun said a 96-minute suspension in play for dangerous weather just before he began the back nine made a difference, allowing him to reset.&nbsp;"The weather definitely changed the whole vibe for the day," Spaun said. "I fought really hard.&nbsp;Sharing the top spot with clubhouse leader MacIntyre, Spaun drove the green at the par-four 17th, missed an 18-foot eagle putt but sank a comeback birdie putt from just over three feet to seize the lead.&nbsp;"Pulled it off. It was nice," said Spaun of his crucial tee shot. "Happy to walk away with birdie."&nbsp;Spaun thrived while a roller coaster back nine delivered a twist-filled drama that wiped out his rivals.&nbsp;Burns went five-over in the first 12 holes to surrender the solo lead and leave eight players within two strokes of the lead down the stretch.&nbsp;MacIntyre, trying to become the first left-handed US Open winner, sank a four-foot birdie putt on 17 to reach one-under with Burns and Hatton and when Spaun missed a 12-foot putt to bogey 15, there was a four-way tie at the top.&nbsp;MacIntyre parred 18 to finish on 68 and reach the clubhouse on one-over while Burns made double bogey at 15 and Hatton made bogey at 17.&nbsp;"Gave myself a chance. I seemed to drive the ball really well," said MacIntyre.But Spaun drove the green at the par-four 17th, missed an 18-foot eagle putt but sank a comeback birdie putt from just over three feet to seize the lead for good.<h2>Rahm, Scheffler seventh</h2>Spain's Jon Rahm birdied the last three holes to shoot 67 and finish on 284, sharing seventh with Burns and top-ranked Scottie Scheffler.&nbsp;"Two keys: Number one would be I kept it in play off the tee," Rahm said. "Then my lag putting. I had the speed really dialed in today."&nbsp;Scheffler, who began the round eight strokes adrift of Burns, fired a 70.&nbsp;"I felt like I did some good things out there," Scheffler said. "A few more putts drop today I think it's a little different story."&nbsp;Northern Ireland's McIlroy, who completed a career Grand Slam by winning the Masters in April, fired a 67 to finish on 287 and turned his thoughts to next month's British Open on home soil at Portrush.&nbsp;"It will be my first time sort of in public back home after winning the Masters," he said. "It should be a really nice week."&nbsp;Disclaimer: This story has been published from a news agency feed with minimal edits to adhere to WION's style guide. The headline may have been changed to better reflect the content of the story or to make it more suitable for WION audience.

J.J. Spaun sank a 65-foot birdie putt on the final hole to win the US Open on Sunday, capturing his first major title despite bogeys on five of his first six holes.

J.J. Spaun sank a 65-foot birdie putt on the final hole to win the US Open on Sunday, capturing his first major title despite bogeys on five of his first six holes. The 34-year-old American finished 72 holes at Oakmont on one-under-par 279 after a closing two-over 72 to defeat Scotland's Robert MacIntyre by two strokes with Norway's Viktor Hovland third on 282. "I never thought I would be holding this trophy," Spaun said. "I'm proud I've been so resilient in my career." Well behind for most of the day, Spaun watched US leader Sam Burns and Australian Adam Scott stumble while he charged back with four birdies on the last seven holes. "I don't think I did keep my composure," Spaun said about his bad start. "I was trying to dig deep and hit some great shots coming in." Spaun, the first US Open champion to bogey the first three holes in his final round, sank a 40-foot birdie putt at the par-five 12th, a 22-foot birdie putt at 14 and answered a bogey at 15 with a clutch tap-in birdie at 17 to grab the lead before rolling in the clincher at 18. "When I hit it I thought it was short," Spaun said. "But about eight feet out it was looking pretty good. "It's just one of those moments in major championships when you seal the deal." Spaun, who took home a top prize of $4.3 million, wiped tears from his eyes as spectators chanted his name when he walked off the green. The only prior PGA Tour victory in Spaun's career came at the 2022 Texas Open. Spaun said a 96-minute suspension in play for dangerous weather just before he began the back nine made a difference, allowing him to reset. "The weather definitely changed the whole vibe for the day," Spaun said. "I fought really hard. Sharing the top spot with clubhouse leader MacIntyre, Spaun drove the green at the par-four 17th, missed an 18-foot eagle putt but sank a comeback birdie putt from just over three feet to seize the lead. "Pulled it off. It was nice," said Spaun of his crucial tee shot. "Happy to walk away with birdie." Spaun thrived while a roller coaster back nine delivered a twist-filled drama that wiped out his rivals. Burns went five-over in the first 12 holes to surrender the solo lead and leave eight players within two strokes of the lead down the stretch. MacIntyre, trying to become the first left-handed US Open winner, sank a four-foot birdie putt on 17 to reach one-under with Burns and Hatton and when Spaun missed a 12-foot putt to bogey 15, there was a four-way tie at the top. MacIntyre parred 18 to finish on 68 and reach the clubhouse on one-over while Burns made double bogey at 15 and Hatton made bogey at 17. "Gave myself a chance. I seemed to drive the ball really well," said MacIntyre. But Spaun drove the green at the par-four 17th, missed an 18-foot eagle putt but sank a comeback birdie putt from just over three feet to seize the lead for good. Rahm, Scheffler seventh Spain's Jon Rahm birdied the last three holes to shoot 67 and finish on 284, sharing seventh with Burns and top-ranked Scottie Scheffler. "Two keys: Number one would be I kept it in play off the tee," Rahm said. "Then my lag putting. I had the speed really dialed in today." Scheffler, who began the round eight strokes adrift of Burns, fired a 70. "I felt like I did some good things out there," Scheffler said. "A few more putts drop today I think it's a little different story." Northern Ireland's McIlroy, who completed a career Grand Slam by winning the Masters in April, fired a 67 to finish on 287 and turned his thoughts to next month's British Open on home soil at Portrush. "It will be my first time sort of in public back home after winning the Masters," he said. "It should be a really nice week." Disclaimer: This story has been published from a news agency feed with minimal edits to adhere to WION's style guide. The headline may have been changed to better reflect the content of the story or to make it more suitable for WION audience.

J.J. Spaun sank a 65-foot birdie putt on the final hole to win the US Open on Sunday, capturing his first major title despite bogeys on five of his first six holes.

Golf: J.J. Spaun wins US Open for first major title with late birdie binge

Just one day after Australia conceded the WTC Final 2025 to South Africa at Lord’s, former Aussie quick Mitchell Johnson came down hard on Josh Hazlewood for choosing to play the resumed leg of IPL 2025 over preparing for the summit clash. While Australia’s remaining three bowlers – Starc, Cummins and Lyon began training earlier in June, Hazlewood re-linked with the squad almost a week before the final’s date.&nbsp;Out with a shoulder injury early in May, Hazlewood took time to return to action, and even though he had a choice to make as Starc did, who decided against returning to India after IPL 2025 following a nine-day break, Hazlewood honoured his franchise commitment, raising quite a few eyebrows.&nbsp;Also read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/gary-kirsten-breaks-silence-on-his-premature-exit-as-pakistan-head-coach-jason-gillespie-internal-politics-1749999682869">‘If I got invited back to Pakistan tomorrow…,’ Gary Kirsten breaks silence on his exit as PAK head coach</a> &nbsp;“We’ve seen concerns about Hazlewood’s fitness in recent years, and his decision to prioritise returning to the delayed Indian Premier League over his national team preparations raised eyebrows,” Johnson wrote in the West Australian. &nbsp;Meanwhile, Johnson also raised a concern surrounding the ageing Australian team, saying even though the bowlers and several batters are approaching the end of their careers, and despite them being successful across formats and still delivering, they would need to be replaced at some point, maybe after the upcoming home Ashes.&nbsp; &nbsp;Further questioning the team's mindset, wondering if Australia had the backups ready, Johnson said, “Our successful ‘big four’ bowling attack of Mitchell Starc, Hazlewood, Pat Cummins and Nathan Lyon can’t be taken for granted as a lock going forward either.&nbsp; &nbsp;"If veteran players are sticking around just for the Ashes as a send-off, it does beg the question of whether that’s the right mindset. It’s crucial that we embrace the future and build confidence in selecting our next Test players,” added Johnson.<h2>What needs to be done? &nbsp;</h2>Johnson was clear in his thoughts about what Australia must do to ensure that the newcomers or those willing to prove themselves get a proper chance, adding that with a three-match series against West Indies just around the corner, Australia have a golden opportunity at hand to prepare the team for the future.&nbsp; &nbsp;“It’s essential to consider when the right time is to make some tough calls. The upcoming three-Test Windies tour seems like an excellent opportunity to give deserving players a chance to shine, and the finger injury to Smith might have the silver lining of prompting some regeneration.&nbsp; &nbsp;“Finding a specialist No.3 is crucial, and with the form Labuschagne has shown over the past 18 months, it’s hard to justify moving him back into that position. Trying to make changes in all top-three batting slots at once would indeed be risky, and I don’t think the selectors will go that route,” Johnson continued.&nbsp;

Johnson slams Hazlewood for making a ‘choice’ that cost Australia WTC Final

Just one day after Australia conceded the WTC Final 2025 to South Africa at Lord’s, former Aussie quick Mitchell Johnson came down hard on Josh Hazlewood for choosing to play the resumed leg of IPL 2025 over preparing for the summit clash. While Australia’s remaining three bowlers – Starc, Cummins and Lyon began training earlier in June, Hazlewood re-linked with the squad almost a week before the final’s date. Out with a shoulder injury early in May, Hazlewood took time to return to action, and even though he had a choice to make as Starc did, who decided against returning to India after IPL 2025 following a nine-day break, Hazlewood honoured his franchise commitment, raising quite a few eyebrows. Also read | ‘If I got invited back to Pakistan tomorrow…,’ Gary Kirsten breaks silence on his exit as PAK head coach “We’ve seen concerns about Hazlewood’s fitness in recent years, and his decision to prioritise returning to the delayed Indian Premier League over his national team preparations raised eyebrows,” Johnson wrote in the West Australian. Meanwhile, Johnson also raised a concern surrounding the ageing Australian team, saying even though the bowlers and several batters are approaching the end of their careers, and despite them being successful across formats and still delivering, they would need to be replaced at some point, maybe after the upcoming home Ashes. Further questioning the team's mindset, wondering if Australia had the backups ready, Johnson said, “Our successful ‘big four’ bowling attack of Mitchell Starc, Hazlewood, Pat Cummins and Nathan Lyon can’t be taken for granted as a lock going forward either. "If veteran players are sticking around just for the Ashes as a send-off, it does beg the question of whether that’s the right mindset. It’s crucial that we embrace the future and build confidence in selecting our next Test players,” added Johnson. What needs to be done? Johnson was clear in his thoughts about what Australia must do to ensure that the newcomers or those willing to prove themselves get a proper chance, adding that with a three-match series against West Indies just around the corner, Australia have a golden opportunity at hand to prepare the team for the future. “It’s essential to consider when the right time is to make some tough calls. The upcoming three-Test Windies tour seems like an excellent opportunity to give deserving players a chance to shine, and the finger injury to Smith might have the silver lining of prompting some regeneration. “Finding a specialist No.3 is crucial, and with the form Labuschagne has shown over the past 18 months, it’s hard to justify moving him back into that position. Trying to make changes in all top-three batting slots at once would indeed be risky, and I don’t think the selectors will go that route,” Johnson continued.

Though Hazlewood had a choice to make as Starc did, who decided against returning to India after IPL 2025 following a nine-day break, he honoured his franchise commitment, raising quite a few eyebrows.

‘Choosing IPL over national team…’ - Mitchell Johnson slams Josh Hazlewood for ‘choice’ that cost Australia WTC Final

Italian Jannik Sinner said on Sunday he had experienced "a few sleepless nights" since his historic French Open final loss to Carlos Alcaraz.&nbsp;Sinner, 23, tasted defeat after five hours and 29 minutes in Roland Garros' longest ever final last weekend and wasted three match points, having been two sets up.&nbsp;"I had already a few sleepless nights, but I think every day it gets better," Sinner told reporters before starting his grass season in Halle, Germany, next week. "Tennis is important in my life, but nevertheless, family and friends more important.&nbsp;"Nonetheless, I think often about the match," the world number one added.&nbsp;Also read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/football-fifa-club-world-cup-2025-lionel-messi-denied-late-winner-as-inter-miami-draw-with-al-ahly-1749960361353">FIFA Club World Cup 2025: Lionel Messi denied late winner as Inter Miami draw with Al Ahly</a>&nbsp;Sinner failed to add to his Australian and US Open titles in the already legendary decider with Spaniard Alcaraz in Paris.&nbsp;He returned home to Trentino-South Tyrol after the gruelling encounter on clay.&nbsp;"I was very relaxed with my family. We grilled a bit, played table tennis with my friends," Sinner said.&nbsp;"Really normal things, nothing special. I like going home, when a lot is going on.&nbsp;"I feel safe at home and with my friends," he added.&nbsp;Sinner returned from a three-month doping suspension in mid-May and now turns his mind to defending the title in Germany.&nbsp;&nbsp;"The ball can bounce a bit funny because of the grass, and you have to serve intelligently," Sinner said.&nbsp;"But in general, it is a surface on which I took a step forward last year, and we will see how it goes this year," he added.&nbsp;Disclaimer: This story has been published from a news agency feed with minimal edits to adhere to WION's style guide. The headline may have been changed to better reflect the content of the story or to make it more suitable for the WION audience.

Jannik Sinner admits suffering sleepless nights after losing French Open final

Italian Jannik Sinner said on Sunday he had experienced "a few sleepless nights" since his historic French Open final loss to Carlos Alcaraz. Sinner, 23, tasted defeat after five hours and 29 minutes in Roland Garros' longest ever final last weekend and wasted three match points, having been two sets up. "I had already a few sleepless nights, but I think every day it gets better," Sinner told reporters before starting his grass season in Halle, Germany, next week. "Tennis is important in my life, but nevertheless, family and friends more important. "Nonetheless, I think often about the match," the world number one added. Also read | FIFA Club World Cup 2025: Lionel Messi denied late winner as Inter Miami draw with Al Ahly Sinner failed to add to his Australian and US Open titles in the already legendary decider with Spaniard Alcaraz in Paris. He returned home to Trentino-South Tyrol after the gruelling encounter on clay. "I was very relaxed with my family. We grilled a bit, played table tennis with my friends," Sinner said. "Really normal things, nothing special. I like going home, when a lot is going on. "I feel safe at home and with my friends," he added. Sinner returned from a three-month doping suspension in mid-May and now turns his mind to defending the title in Germany. "The ball can bounce a bit funny because of the grass, and you have to serve intelligently," Sinner said. "But in general, it is a surface on which I took a step forward last year, and we will see how it goes this year," he added. Disclaimer: This story has been published from a news agency feed with minimal edits to adhere to WION's style guide. The headline may have been changed to better reflect the content of the story or to make it more suitable for the WION audience.

Sinner, 23, tasted defeat after five hours and 29 minutes in Roland Garros' longest ever final last weekend and wasted three match points, having been two sets up.

Sinner admits suffering ‘sleepless nights’ after losing historic French Open final to Alcaraz

Gennaro Gattuso was named Italy's new coach on Sunday and will be tasked with helping the Azzurri qualify for the 2026 World Cup after replacing Luciano Spalletti. The 47-year-old was part of the 2006 World Cup-winning side and won 73 caps for the national team as a player.&nbsp;The Italian football federation (FIGC) said Gattuso would be presented to the media on Thursday.&nbsp;"Gattuso is a symbol of Italian football," said FIGC president Gabriele Gravina. "The blue shirt is like a second skin for him. His motivation, his professionalism and his experience will be essential.&nbsp;"(He is) Aware of the importance of the objective we want to achieve. I thank him for the total dedication with which he has accepted this challenge."&nbsp;Also read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/football-mauricio-pochettino-defends-christian-pulisic-omission-says-i-m-not-a-mannequin-1749962291516">Mauricio Pochettino defends Christian Pulisic omission, says 'I'm not a mannequin'</a>&nbsp;Four-time champions Italy have failed to qualify for the past two World Cups and started their bid to reach next year's tournament in North America with a 3-0 loss to Norway last week.&nbsp;Gattuso is an experienced coach and was last in charge of Croatian club Hajduk Split, helping them qualify for next season's UEFA Conference League.&nbsp;His other former clubs include AC Milan, for whom he made 468 appearances as a player, Napoli, Valencia and Marseille.&nbsp;Italy are next in action in Group I of qualifying with games against Estonia and Israel in September.&nbsp;Spalletti was sacked after the Norway defeat, and Monday's win over Moldova was his last match in charge.&nbsp;Italy missed out on the 2018 World Cup in Russia after losing a play-off to Sweden and then also failed to qualify for the 2022 finals in Qatar, suffering a shock exit from the play-offs at the hands of North Macedonia.&nbsp;Gattuso has had a mixed coaching career since retiring as a player in 2013.&nbsp;His only major trophy as a head coach was the 2019/20 Italian Cup with Napoli.&nbsp;He lasted only 22 and 24 matches in charge of Valencia and Marseille, respectively, while an announced deal with Fiorentina was rescinded just two weeks before his contract was due to begin in 2021.&nbsp;According to Italian media, former Italy defenders Andrea Barzagli and Leonardo Bonucci will join his coaching staff.&nbsp;Former boss Cesare Prandelli is expected to take over the youth teams.&nbsp;The FIGC had been turned down by both Claudio Ranieri and Stefano Pioli before appointing Gattuso.&nbsp;Disclaimer: This story has been published from a news agency feed with minimal edits to adhere to WION's style guide. The headline may have been changed to better reflect the content of the story or to make it more suitable for the WION audience.

World Cup winner Gennaro Gattuso replaces Luciano Spalletti as new Italy coach

Gennaro Gattuso was named Italy's new coach on Sunday and will be tasked with helping the Azzurri qualify for the 2026 World Cup after replacing Luciano Spalletti. The 47-year-old was part of the 2006 World Cup-winning side and won 73 caps for the national team as a player. The Italian football federation (FIGC) said Gattuso would be presented to the media on Thursday. "Gattuso is a symbol of Italian football," said FIGC president Gabriele Gravina. "The blue shirt is like a second skin for him. His motivation, his professionalism and his experience will be essential. "(He is) Aware of the importance of the objective we want to achieve. I thank him for the total dedication with which he has accepted this challenge." Also read | Mauricio Pochettino defends Christian Pulisic omission, says 'I'm not a mannequin' Four-time champions Italy have failed to qualify for the past two World Cups and started their bid to reach next year's tournament in North America with a 3-0 loss to Norway last week. Gattuso is an experienced coach and was last in charge of Croatian club Hajduk Split, helping them qualify for next season's UEFA Conference League. His other former clubs include AC Milan, for whom he made 468 appearances as a player, Napoli, Valencia and Marseille. Italy are next in action in Group I of qualifying with games against Estonia and Israel in September. Spalletti was sacked after the Norway defeat, and Monday's win over Moldova was his last match in charge. Italy missed out on the 2018 World Cup in Russia after losing a play-off to Sweden and then also failed to qualify for the 2022 finals in Qatar, suffering a shock exit from the play-offs at the hands of North Macedonia. Gattuso has had a mixed coaching career since retiring as a player in 2013. His only major trophy as a head coach was the 2019/20 Italian Cup with Napoli. He lasted only 22 and 24 matches in charge of Valencia and Marseille, respectively, while an announced deal with Fiorentina was rescinded just two weeks before his contract was due to begin in 2021. According to Italian media, former Italy defenders Andrea Barzagli and Leonardo Bonucci will join his coaching staff. Former boss Cesare Prandelli is expected to take over the youth teams. The FIGC had been turned down by both Claudio Ranieri and Stefano Pioli before appointing Gattuso. Disclaimer: This story has been published from a news agency feed with minimal edits to adhere to WION's style guide. The headline may have been changed to better reflect the content of the story or to make it more suitable for the WION audience.

Four-time champions Italy have failed to qualify for the past two World Cups and started their bid to reach next year's tournament in North America with a 3-0 loss to Norway last week.

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World Cup winner Gennaro Gattuso replaces Luciano Spalletti as new Italy coach