Rohit Sharma is aging like a fine wine as he wreaked havoc in the Eliminator clash of the Indian Premier League (IPL 2025) against Gujarat Titans (GT) on Friday (May 30). Playing at the New Chandigarh Stadium in Mullanpur, Rohit narrowly missed out on his IPL ton as he scored 81 runs for Mumbai Indians. In doing so he joined the unique clubs of Virat Kohli and Chris Gayle with Mumbai Indians taking a giant step towards the IPL Qualifier 2 at the time of writing.<h2>Rohit joins Virat, Gayle's unique club</h2>Scoring 81 runs, Rohit completed 7000 runs in the IPL, joining Virat on the unique list. He is already the second-highest scorer in IPL history after Virat, with the Royal Challengers Bengaluru (RCB) batter scoring more than 8000 runs. Rohit also has a stellar record in the IPL with six titles, five of them as captain of Mumbai Indians.&nbsp;His 81-run knock included 4 sixes and 9 fours and was scoring at the rate of knots in the Eliminator clash. With the four sixes, he also joined Chris Gayle’s unique club of 300 IPL sixes. While the West Indies batter has 357 sixes, Rohit sits second to him on the all-time list of batters.<h2>Mumbai set 229-run target for GT</h2>Having opted to bat first, Mumbai scored 228/5 in their 20 overs with their batters in top form. Jonny Bairstow was dismissed for a well-made 47 off 22 before he was dismissed by Sai Kishore. He and Rohit Sharma put together an opening stand of 84 runs as Mumbai made a fantastic start. Later Suryakumar Yadav joined Rohit as they continued the batting onslaught. The pair stitched a stand of 59 runs for the second wicket before Suryakumar fell to Sai Kishore on a sweep shot with him scoring 33 off 20.&nbsp;Tilak Varma also played a crucial knock with a score of 25 off 11. However, it was Rohit who made the headlines having scored 81 off 50 which included 4 sixes and 9 fours.&nbsp;As a result of the great start, Mumbai scored 228/5 in their 20 overs with Hardik Pandya also playing a cameo of unbeaten 22 runs in the end.

Playing at the New Chandigarh Stadium in Mullanpur, Rohit Sharma narrowly missed out on his IPL ton as he scored 81 runs for Mumbai Indians.

Rohit Sharma is aging like a fine wine as he wreaked havoc in the Eliminator clash of the Indian Premier League (IPL 2025) against Gujarat Titans (GT) on Friday (May 30). Playing at the New Chandigarh Stadium in Mullanpur, Rohit narrowly missed out on his IPL ton as he scored 81 runs for Mumbai Indians. In doing so he joined the unique clubs of Virat Kohli and Chris Gayle with Mumbai Indians taking a giant step towards the IPL Qualifier 2 at the time of writing. Rohit joins Virat, Gayle's unique club Scoring 81 runs, Rohit completed 7000 runs in the IPL, joining Virat on the unique list. He is already the second-highest scorer in IPL history after Virat, with the Royal Challengers Bengaluru (RCB) batter scoring more than 8000 runs. Rohit also has a stellar record in the IPL with six titles, five of them as captain of Mumbai Indians. His 81-run knock included 4 sixes and 9 fours and was scoring at the rate of knots in the Eliminator clash. With the four sixes, he also joined Chris Gayle’s unique club of 300 IPL sixes. While the West Indies batter has 357 sixes, Rohit sits second to him on the all-time list of batters. Mumbai set 229-run target for GT Having opted to bat first, Mumbai scored 228/5 in their 20 overs with their batters in top form. Jonny Bairstow was dismissed for a well-made 47 off 22 before he was dismissed by Sai Kishore. He and Rohit Sharma put together an opening stand of 84 runs as Mumbai made a fantastic start. Later Suryakumar Yadav joined Rohit as they continued the batting onslaught. The pair stitched a stand of 59 runs for the second wicket before Suryakumar fell to Sai Kishore on a sweep shot with him scoring 33 off 20. Tilak Varma also played a crucial knock with a score of 25 off 11. However, it was Rohit who made the headlines having scored 81 off 50 which included 4 sixes and 9 fours. As a result of the great start, Mumbai scored 228/5 in their 20 overs with Hardik Pandya also playing a cameo of unbeaten 22 runs in the end.

Playing at the New Chandigarh Stadium in Mullanpur, Rohit Sharma narrowly missed out on his IPL ton as he scored 81 runs for Mumbai Indians.

IPL 2025: Rohit Sharma joins Virat Kohli, Chris Gayle's unique club with 81-run knock against GT in Eliminator

Iga Swiatek kept her bid for a fourth consecutive French Open title on track Friday, advancing to the last 16 at Roland Garros along with top women's seed Aryna Sabalenka and Olympic champion Zheng Qinwen.&nbsp;Reigning men's champion Carlos Alcaraz will look to book his place in the last 16 later to join Italy's Lorenzo Musetti and Dane Holger Rune who both rallied to set up a fourth-round clash.&nbsp;Swiatek came through despite a very close second set against Romania's world number 60 Jaqueline Cristian, winning 6-2, 7-5 in nearly two hours in sweltering conditions on Court Suzanne Lenglen.&nbsp;"Before it was 20 degrees when I played my first match but today it was 30 degrees. It is not easy to adjust but I have played in every condition," said Swiatek.&nbsp;The 23-year-old Pole awaits the winner of a big-hitting showdown between Elena Rybakina and Jelena Ostapenko, who has beaten Swiatek in all six of their previous meetings.&nbsp;A former world number one, who has fallen to fifth in the WTA rankings, Swiatek has not won a title since her third consecutive title on the Parisian clay in 2024.&nbsp;Swiatek broke the 60th-ranked Cristian twice in a comfortable first set, but she was pushed a lot harder by her rival in the second and had to save six break points.&nbsp;"She went for it every time I gave her a chance," said Swiatek, hoping to become the first woman to win four successive Roland Garros titles since Suzanne Lenglen 102 years ago.“I'm just happy that I was super solid and didn't give any free points but she used her chances.”<h2>Sabalenka relishes battle</h2>Earlier Sabalenka produced a dominant display in a 6-2, 6-3 win over Serbian left-hander Olga Danilovic.&nbsp;"Olga is a fighter. I enjoyed our battle," said Madrid Open winner Sabalenka after beating her 34th-ranked rival in 79 minutes on Court Philippe Chatrier.&nbsp;The 27-year-old Belarusian next plays 16th-seeded American Amanda Anisimova for a place in the quarter-finals.&nbsp;Anisimova ousted Danish 22nd seed Clara Tauson 7-6 (7/4), 6-4 in their third-round tie.Zheng ended the run of Canadian teenager Victoria Mboko 6-3, 6-4.&nbsp;The Chinese eighth seed has now won nine successive matches at Roland Garros following her run to Olympic gold last year.&nbsp;"We had some really good points, it was not an easy match," said Zheng."Today was a tough battle against Qinwen," said 18-year-old Grand Slam newcomer Mboko.&nbsp;"Lots of things to learn and hopefully come back to my next tournament with some more positives and (having) improved on my game."&nbsp;Zheng is through to the fourth round in Paris for the second time and will next Russian 19th seed Liudmila Samsonova who brushed aside Ukraine's Dayana Yastremska 6-2, 6-3.Zheng and Samsonova will both be bidding for a first Roland Garros quarter-final berth.<h2>Musetti fights on</h2>Eighth seed Musetti won 4-6, 6-4, 6-3, 6-2 against Argentine Mariano Navone in three hours and 25 minutes.&nbsp;Musetti arrived in Paris as one of the form players in the world after backing up his runner-up finish in Monte Carlo with semi-final runs in Madrid and Rome.But the Italian dropped his first set in Paris against world number 97 Navone.&nbsp;"I've grown up a lot. A match like this I don't know if I would (have) come back a few years ago," said Musetti.&nbsp;"The heat was pretty tough to manage. But happy to find a way to turn around the match."Musetti, who reached the fourth round in Paris for the third time, next plays Rune who rallied past France's Quentin Halys in five sets.&nbsp;In the night session, second seed Alcaraz steps up for a third-round meeting with 69th-ranked Bosnian Damir Dzumhur.&nbsp;Four-time Grand Slam champion Alcaraz is the title favourite after securing the Monte Carlo Masters and Italian Open trophies in the build-up to the clay-court major.The 22-year-old Spaniard has reached the second week in 10 of his last 11 Slam appearances.&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.

Iga Swiatek kept her bid for a fourth consecutive French Open title on track Friday, advancing to the last 16 at Roland Garros along with top womens seed Aryna Sabalenka and Olympic champion Zheng Qinwen.

Iga Swiatek kept her bid for a fourth consecutive French Open title on track Friday, advancing to the last 16 at Roland Garros along with top women's seed Aryna Sabalenka and Olympic champion Zheng Qinwen. Reigning men's champion Carlos Alcaraz will look to book his place in the last 16 later to join Italy's Lorenzo Musetti and Dane Holger Rune who both rallied to set up a fourth-round clash. Swiatek came through despite a very close second set against Romania's world number 60 Jaqueline Cristian, winning 6-2, 7-5 in nearly two hours in sweltering conditions on Court Suzanne Lenglen. "Before it was 20 degrees when I played my first match but today it was 30 degrees. It is not easy to adjust but I have played in every condition," said Swiatek. The 23-year-old Pole awaits the winner of a big-hitting showdown between Elena Rybakina and Jelena Ostapenko, who has beaten Swiatek in all six of their previous meetings. A former world number one, who has fallen to fifth in the WTA rankings, Swiatek has not won a title since her third consecutive title on the Parisian clay in 2024. Swiatek broke the 60th-ranked Cristian twice in a comfortable first set, but she was pushed a lot harder by her rival in the second and had to save six break points. "She went for it every time I gave her a chance," said Swiatek, hoping to become the first woman to win four successive Roland Garros titles since Suzanne Lenglen 102 years ago. “I'm just happy that I was super solid and didn't give any free points but she used her chances.” Sabalenka relishes battle Earlier Sabalenka produced a dominant display in a 6-2, 6-3 win over Serbian left-hander Olga Danilovic. "Olga is a fighter. I enjoyed our battle," said Madrid Open winner Sabalenka after beating her 34th-ranked rival in 79 minutes on Court Philippe Chatrier. The 27-year-old Belarusian next plays 16th-seeded American Amanda Anisimova for a place in the quarter-finals. Anisimova ousted Danish 22nd seed Clara Tauson 7-6 (7/4), 6-4 in their third-round tie. Zheng ended the run of Canadian teenager Victoria Mboko 6-3, 6-4. The Chinese eighth seed has now won nine successive matches at Roland Garros following her run to Olympic gold last year. "We had some really good points, it was not an easy match," said Zheng. "Today was a tough battle against Qinwen," said 18-year-old Grand Slam newcomer Mboko. "Lots of things to learn and hopefully come back to my next tournament with some more positives and (having) improved on my game." Zheng is through to the fourth round in Paris for the second time and will next Russian 19th seed Liudmila Samsonova who brushed aside Ukraine's Dayana Yastremska 6-2, 6-3. Zheng and Samsonova will both be bidding for a first Roland Garros quarter-final berth. Musetti fights on Eighth seed Musetti won 4-6, 6-4, 6-3, 6-2 against Argentine Mariano Navone in three hours and 25 minutes. Musetti arrived in Paris as one of the form players in the world after backing up his runner-up finish in Monte Carlo with semi-final runs in Madrid and Rome. But the Italian dropped his first set in Paris against world number 97 Navone. "I've grown up a lot. A match like this I don't know if I would (have) come back a few years ago," said Musetti. "The heat was pretty tough to manage. But happy to find a way to turn around the match." Musetti, who reached the fourth round in Paris for the third time, next plays Rune who rallied past France's Quentin Halys in five sets. In the night session, second seed Alcaraz steps up for a third-round meeting with 69th-ranked Bosnian Damir Dzumhur. Four-time Grand Slam champion Alcaraz is the title favourite after securing the Monte Carlo Masters and Italian Open trophies in the build-up to the clay-court major. The 22-year-old Spaniard has reached the second week in 10 of his last 11 Slam appearances. 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.

Iga Swiatek kept her bid for a fourth consecutive French Open title on track Friday, advancing to the last 16 at Roland Garros along with top women's seed Aryna Sabalenka and Olympic champion Zheng Qinwen.

French Open 2025: Swiatek, Sabalenka through as Musetti battles into last 16

The Indian Premier League (IPL 2025) had a memorable moment on Friday (May 30) as Mumbai Indians met Gujarat Titans in the Eliminator clash at the New Chandigarh Stadium in Mullanpur. While Mumbai made a brilliant start to their innings, it was the catches that made the headlines. Rohit Sharma was dropped twice during his innings but it was Jonny Bairstow’s wicket that had the netizens on their heel.

<blockquote class="twitter-tweet" data-media-max-width="560">Top teamwork 🫡 Sai Sudharsan 🤝 Gerald Coetzee Jonny Bairstow departs after an entertaining 47(22). Updates ▶ <a href="https://t.co/R4RTzjQfph">https://t.co/R4RTzjQfph</a> <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/TATAIPL?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#TATAIPL</a> | <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/GTvMI?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#GTvMI</a> | <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/Eliminator?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#Eliminator</a> | <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/TheLastMile?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#TheLastMile</a> <a href="https://t.co/Om1nYyNDAT">pic.twitter.com/Om1nYyNDAT</a>&mdash; IndianPremierLeague (@IPL) <a href="https://twitter.com/IPL/status/1928463995658252586?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">May 30, 2025</a></blockquote> <script async src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script>

<h2>Sudharsan-Coetzee combine for sensational relay catch</h2>On the second ball of the eighth over, Jonny Bairstow attempted a sweep shoot, something that had earned him four runs on the previous delivery. Hungry for runs, Bairstow again attempted the same shoot but found Sai Sudharsan at point who attempted to clutch the ball. While he was unable to catch the ball cleanly he managed to pass the ball to Gerarld Coetzee, who was fielding at the short third man, in the process completing a sensational relay catch.&nbsp;ALSO READ | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/cricket-ipl-2025-why-history-favours-rcb-and-virat-kohli-to-win-maiden-title-here-s-what-stats-say-1748609780632">IPL 2025: Why history favours RCB and Virat Kohli to win maiden title? Here's what stats say</a>&nbsp;Having made a great start to the innings, Bairstow was dismissed for a well-made 47 off 22. He and Rohit Sharma put together an opening stand of 84 runs as Mumbai made a fantastic start. Later Suryakumar Yadav joined Rohit as they continued the batting onslaught. The pair stitched a stand of 59 runs for the second wicket before Suryakumar fell to Sai Kishore on a sweep shot with him scoring 33 off 20.&nbsp;Tilak Varma also played a crucial knock with a score of 25 off 11. However, it was Rohit who made the headlines having scored 81 off 50 which included 4 sixes and 9 fours. &nbsp;As a result of the great start, Mumbai scored 228/5 in their 20 overs with Hardik Pandya also playing a cameo of unbeaten 22 runs in the end.

The Indian Premier League (IPL 2025) had a memorable moment on Friday (May 30) as Mumbai Indians met Gujarat Titans in the Eliminator clash at the New Chandigarh Stadium in Mullanpur.

The Indian Premier League (IPL 2025) had a memorable moment on Friday (May 30) as Mumbai Indians met Gujarat Titans in the Eliminator clash at the New Chandigarh Stadium in Mullanpur. While Mumbai made a brilliant start to their innings, it was the catches that made the headlines. Rohit Sharma was dropped twice during his innings but it was Jonny Bairstow’s wicket that had the netizens on their heel.

The Indian Premier League (IPL 2025) had a memorable moment on Friday (May 30) as Mumbai Indians met Gujarat Titans in the Eliminator clash at the New Chandigarh Stadium in Mullanpur.

IPL 2025: Sudharsan-Coetzee combine for sensational relay catch to dismiss Jonny Bairstow | Watch

Massimiliano Allegri returned to AC Milan on Friday as the ailing seven-time European champions try once again to rebuild following an awful season, on a busy day for managerial moves in Serie A.&nbsp;Milan have turned to serial winner Allegri in their hour of need following the expected sacking of Sergio Conceicao, who leaves the San Siro club after five miserable months in charge.&nbsp;Milan did not reveal details of the deal but Italian media widely report that Allegri has signed a two-year contract worth five million euros a season, with the option to extend for a further two years.&nbsp;Allegri has become the fourth coach in a year for Milan, who finished this past Serie A season in eighth place and missed out on European football for next term.&nbsp;The 57-year-old led Milan to the 2011 Scudetto in his first stint in charge, between 2010 and 2014, and he was their coach for one of the most infamous episodes in recent Serie A history.&nbsp;Milan were beating Juventus, rivals for the 2012 league title, 1-0 in February that year when a Sulley Muntari goal was not given despite the ball clearly crossing the line.&nbsp;Juve went on to draw that game 1-1 and then win their first title in nine years -- finishing the campaign unbeaten -- and two years later hired Allegri who then won Serie A five more times in his two spells with the Turin giants.<h2>Conceicao out</h2>Allegri had been on hiatus since being sacked by Juve in May last year, his final act there being a post-match rampage after winning the Italian Cup in which he railed at officials and sporting director Cristiano Giuntoli.&nbsp;Conceicao, a former Inter Milan and Lazio player, was hired in late December in place of his countryman Paulo Fonseca on a contract until next year.&nbsp;The 50-year-old began in positive fashion at Milan by winning the Italian Super Cup in January, but he failed to claim a Champions League spot for a talented but inconsistent team that also lost the Italian Cup final to Bologna earlier this month.&nbsp;Conceciao, 50, won 16 of 31 games in charge at Milan, including 11 victories, seven losses and three draws in the league and also had to deal with vociferous protests from supporters against the club's American owners RedBird.&nbsp;Fans demonstrated in large numbers outside Milan's headquarters ahead of their team's final match of the season, a dead-rubber against relegated Monza last weekend.That protest was a culmination of months of visible anger from supporters who have watched Milan slide down the league after Stefano Pioli took them to second place in 2023/24.&nbsp;For months matches have been punctuated by loud calls for owner Gerry Cardinale, the founder of investment fund RedBird, to sell the club as fans watched Inter battle for the Serie A title and arrive at this weekend's Champions League final.<h2>Musical chairs</h2>Allegri's arrival came as a host of clubs in Serie A look to new faces in the dugout, with the sudden departures of Marco Baroni and Raffaele Palladino from Lazio and Fiorentina on Friday hurrying things along.&nbsp;Also looking for a new coach are Roma after Claudio Ranieri retired for the second time in the space of a year, with Gian Piero Gasperini reported to be the capital club's prime target.&nbsp;Meanwhile even Simone Inzaghi had to play down reports of a mega-money move to Al-Hilal in Saudi Arabia, rumours which arrived out of the blue ahead of Inter Milan's Champions League final against Paris Saint-Germain.&nbsp;On Monday Inzaghi said that he was "really happy" at Inter even with talk of a two-year deal with Saudi Pro league club Al-Hilal worth 50 million euros ($57 million).&nbsp;Champions Napoli managed to keep hold of Antonio Conte, meaning Juventus have to start a new search with Igor Tudor unlikely to be kept on and Gasperini also a target for the Turin giants.&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.

Massimiliano Allegri returned to AC Milan on Friday as the ailing seven-time European champions try once again to rebuild following an awful season, on a busy day for managerial moves in Serie A.

Massimiliano Allegri returned to AC Milan on Friday as the ailing seven-time European champions try once again to rebuild following an awful season, on a busy day for managerial moves in Serie A. Milan have turned to serial winner Allegri in their hour of need following the expected sacking of Sergio Conceicao, who leaves the San Siro club after five miserable months in charge. Milan did not reveal details of the deal but Italian media widely report that Allegri has signed a two-year contract worth five million euros a season, with the option to extend for a further two years. Allegri has become the fourth coach in a year for Milan, who finished this past Serie A season in eighth place and missed out on European football for next term. The 57-year-old led Milan to the 2011 Scudetto in his first stint in charge, between 2010 and 2014, and he was their coach for one of the most infamous episodes in recent Serie A history. Milan were beating Juventus, rivals for the 2012 league title, 1-0 in February that year when a Sulley Muntari goal was not given despite the ball clearly crossing the line. Juve went on to draw that game 1-1 and then win their first title in nine years -- finishing the campaign unbeaten -- and two years later hired Allegri who then won Serie A five more times in his two spells with the Turin giants. Conceicao out Allegri had been on hiatus since being sacked by Juve in May last year, his final act there being a post-match rampage after winning the Italian Cup in which he railed at officials and sporting director Cristiano Giuntoli. Conceicao, a former Inter Milan and Lazio player, was hired in late December in place of his countryman Paulo Fonseca on a contract until next year. The 50-year-old began in positive fashion at Milan by winning the Italian Super Cup in January, but he failed to claim a Champions League spot for a talented but inconsistent team that also lost the Italian Cup final to Bologna earlier this month. Conceciao, 50, won 16 of 31 games in charge at Milan, including 11 victories, seven losses and three draws in the league and also had to deal with vociferous protests from supporters against the club's American owners RedBird. Fans demonstrated in large numbers outside Milan's headquarters ahead of their team's final match of the season, a dead-rubber against relegated Monza last weekend. That protest was a culmination of months of visible anger from supporters who have watched Milan slide down the league after Stefano Pioli took them to second place in 2023/24. For months matches have been punctuated by loud calls for owner Gerry Cardinale, the founder of investment fund RedBird, to sell the club as fans watched Inter battle for the Serie A title and arrive at this weekend's Champions League final. Musical chairs Allegri's arrival came as a host of clubs in Serie A look to new faces in the dugout, with the sudden departures of Marco Baroni and Raffaele Palladino from Lazio and Fiorentina on Friday hurrying things along. Also looking for a new coach are Roma after Claudio Ranieri retired for the second time in the space of a year, with Gian Piero Gasperini reported to be the capital club's prime target. Meanwhile even Simone Inzaghi had to play down reports of a mega-money move to Al-Hilal in Saudi Arabia, rumours which arrived out of the blue ahead of Inter Milan's Champions League final against Paris Saint-Germain. On Monday Inzaghi said that he was "really happy" at Inter even with talk of a two-year deal with Saudi Pro league club Al-Hilal worth 50 million euros ($57 million). Champions Napoli managed to keep hold of Antonio Conte, meaning Juventus have to start a new search with Igor Tudor unlikely to be kept on and Gasperini also a target for the Turin giants. 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.

Massimiliano Allegri returned to AC Milan on Friday as the ailing seven-time European champions try once again to rebuild following an awful season, on a busy day for managerial moves in Serie A.

AC Milan turn to Massimiliano Allegri as new manager after disappointing Serie A season

Royal Challengers Bengaluru (RCB) have moved a step closer to their maiden Indian Premier League (IPL) title after they beat Punjab Kings in Qualifier 1 on Thursday (May 29). The win now sees RCB stand a win away from their maiden IPL title as history also favours the South Indian side. If recent history and trends continue, RCB could find themselves ending the trophy drought.<h2>Why history favours RCB?</h2>The current IPL playoff format was introduced in 2011 where the top two teams play in Qualifier 1, the winner of which plays in the final of the tournament. On the other hand, teams placed third and fourth play in the Eliminator, the winner of which plays in Qualifier 2. The loser of Qualifier 1 and the winner of Eliminator then play for a place in the final where they meet the winner of Qualifier 1.&nbsp;Since the inception of the format, in the last 14 seasons, 11 Qualifier 1 winners have gone on to win the IPL. If the trend continues, then RCB stand a golden chance to end the trophy drought.&nbsp;The exceptions include SunRisers Hyderabad’s famous triumph of 2016 when they won the IPL despite playing in the Eliminator. They to date remain the only team to win the IPL having played in the Eliminator. Interestingly, all last seven winners of Qualifier 1 from 2018 to 2024 have gone on to win the IPL.<h2>RCB dream of maiden IPL title</h2>This will be RCB’s fourth IPL final, having lost on all three previous occasions. They lost the 2009 final to Deccan Chargers, 2011 to Chennai Super Kings and the 2016 summit clash to SunRisers Hyderabad. RCB also lost two finals in the now-defunct Champions League. RCB’s only success has come in the Women’s Premier League when Smriti Mandhana’s side won the title in 2024.&nbsp;RCB will face the winner of Qualifier 2 on Tuesday (June 3) at the iconic Narendra Modi Stadium in Ahmedabad.

Royal Challengers Bengaluru (RCB) have moved a step closer to their maiden Indian Premier League (IPL) title after they beat Punjab Kings in Qualifier 1 on Thursday (May 29). 

Royal Challengers Bengaluru (RCB) have moved a step closer to their maiden Indian Premier League (IPL) title after they beat Punjab Kings in Qualifier 1 on Thursday (May 29). The win now sees RCB stand a win away from their maiden IPL title as history also favours the South Indian side. If recent history and trends continue, RCB could find themselves ending the trophy drought. Why history favours RCB? The current IPL playoff format was introduced in 2011 where the top two teams play in Qualifier 1, the winner of which plays in the final of the tournament. On the other hand, teams placed third and fourth play in the Eliminator, the winner of which plays in Qualifier 2. The loser of Qualifier 1 and the winner of Eliminator then play for a place in the final where they meet the winner of Qualifier 1. Since the inception of the format, in the last 14 seasons, 11 Qualifier 1 winners have gone on to win the IPL. If the trend continues, then RCB stand a golden chance to end the trophy drought. The exceptions include SunRisers Hyderabad’s famous triumph of 2016 when they won the IPL despite playing in the Eliminator. They to date remain the only team to win the IPL having played in the Eliminator. Interestingly, all last seven winners of Qualifier 1 from 2018 to 2024 have gone on to win the IPL. RCB dream of maiden IPL title This will be RCB’s fourth IPL final, having lost on all three previous occasions. They lost the 2009 final to Deccan Chargers, 2011 to Chennai Super Kings and the 2016 summit clash to SunRisers Hyderabad. RCB also lost two finals in the now-defunct Champions League. RCB’s only success has come in the Women’s Premier League when Smriti Mandhana’s side won the title in 2024. RCB will face the winner of Qualifier 2 on Tuesday (June 3) at the iconic Narendra Modi Stadium in Ahmedabad.

Royal Challengers Bengaluru (RCB) have moved a step closer to their maiden Indian Premier League (IPL) title after they beat Punjab Kings in Qualifier 1 on Thursday (May 29).&nbsp;

IPL 2025: Why history favours RCB and Virat Kohli to win maiden title? Here's what stats say

Indian ace badminton duo of <a href="https://www.wionews.com/tags/satwiksairaj-rankireddy">Satwiksairaj Rankireddy</a> and <a href="https://www.wionews.com/tags/chirag-shetty">Chirag Shetty </a>stormed into the <a href="https://www.wionews.com/tags/singapore-open-2025">Singapore Open 2025 </a>semi-finals by defeating the world no.1 duo of Goh Sze Fei and Nur Izzuddin on Friday (May 30).&nbsp;The Indian pair defeated their Malaysian counterparts in two straight games of 21-17, 21-15 in the Singapore Open 2025. With a sublime defence and accurate precision, they outplayed their opponent and took the opening game home within 40 minutes.&nbsp;Coming into this high-octane clash, the Malaysian duo had the better head-to-head record leading by 6-2. However, recently in the India Open 2025, they suffered a loss to the same duo of Chirag and Satwik.

<blockquote class="twitter-tweet">130 days📈 Injury. Sickness. Nothing could deter them. The boss duo is back in the Super Series semis! 🔥 From Delhi to Singapore, the 750 comeback is real.<a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/SatChi?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#SatChi</a> <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/BadmintonBosses?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#BadmintonBosses</a> <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/ComebackKings?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#ComebackKings</a> <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/SingaporeOpen2025?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#SingaporeOpen2025</a> <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/badminton?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#badminton</a> <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/BAI?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#BAI</a><a href="https://twitter.com/himantabiswa?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@himantabiswa</a> <a href="https://twitter.com/lakhaniarun1?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@lakhaniarun1</a> <a href="https://twitter.com/sanjay091968?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@sanjay091968</a>… <a href="https://t.co/lBIatVIAls">pic.twitter.com/lBIatVIAls</a>&mdash; BAI Media (@BAI_Media) <a href="https://twitter.com/BAI_Media/status/1928388668948897800?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">May 30, 2025</a></blockquote> <script async src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script>

Interestingly, this is the third semi-final appearance of the Indian duo this season, having previously reached the Malaysian Open and India Open earlier this year. Unfortunately, they tasted defeat in both of these pressure matches.&nbsp;The match began with a few early mistakes from both ends. But with the score seven all, Satwik and Chirag started to cruise ahead, all thanks to smart serves and quick shots. Satwik’s powerful forehand smash helped the Indian duo race awayt with a lead of 18-15. In the final stages, the Malaysians fumbled with few errors including a missed return, that saw the Indians pocket the opening game.&nbsp;&nbsp;Also Read |<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/cricket-i-am-looking-forward-to-cricket-at-oiympics-jasprit-bumrah-shares-his-excitement-for-la28-games-1748591813297"> 'I am looking forward to cricket at OIympics': Jasprit Bumrah shares his excitement for LA28 Games</a>&nbsp;In the second game, Chirag made few errors early, but the Indians stayed calm. They went on a four-point run to lead 10-6, and then Chirag’s sharp body shot helped them build a 4-point lead at the break in second game.&nbsp;&nbsp;After the break, Satwik’s smashing form continued and His backhand and aggressive shots took the lead to 16-10. Despite a few mistakes near the end, the Indian pair held their nerve and Satwik’s fierce return earned five match points, and they sealed the win after another error from the Malaysians.&nbsp;Satwik and Chirag will have their eyes set on the first title of the season. They will face another Malaysian duo of A. Chia and W.Y. Soh on Saturday (May 31), whom they had lost recently in the Paris 2024 Olympics quarterfinal.

Indian ace badminton duo of Satwiksairaj Rankireddy and Chirag Shetty stormed into the Singapore Open 2025 semi-finals by defeating the world no.1 duo of Goh Sze Fei and Nur Izzuddin on Friday (May 30).

Indian ace badminton duo of Satwiksairaj Rankireddy and Chirag Shetty stormed into the Singapore Open 2025 semi-finals by defeating the world no.1 duo of Goh Sze Fei and Nur Izzuddin on Friday (May 30). The Indian pair defeated their Malaysian counterparts in two straight games of 21-17, 21-15 in the Singapore Open 2025. With a sublime defence and accurate precision, they outplayed their opponent and took the opening game home within 40 minutes. Coming into this high-octane clash, the Malaysian duo had the better head-to-head record leading by 6-2. However, recently in the India Open 2025, they suffered a loss to the same duo of Chirag and Satwik.

Indian ace badminton duo of Satwiksairaj Rankireddy and Chirag Shetty stormed into the Singapore Open 2025 semi-finals by defeating the world no.1 duo of Goh Sze Fei and Nur Izzuddin on Friday (May 30).

Singapore Open 2025: Chirag-Satwik upset top seed Goh Sze Fei,  Nur Izzuddin to enter into semis

Chennai Super Kings star bowler Ravichandran Ashwin has backed Royal Challengers Bengaluru (RCB) to win the Indian Premier League (IPL 2025) title as they reached the summit clash with a win in Qualifier 1 on Thursday (May 29). However, according to Ashwin Mumbai Indians will be the biggest threat who could stop RCB from winning the title. The five-time champions are hungry for success but could only face RCB if they win the Eliminator and Qualifier 2 contest.&nbsp;<h2>Ashwin backs RCB but with a twist</h2>&nbsp;“If RCB have to win the IPL, then Gujarat Titans should win against Mumbai Indians. MI are one team that you cannot allow to enter the final, you have to stop them at any cost,” Ashwin said on his YouTube channel.&nbsp;<h2>RCB punch ticket for final</h2>&nbsp;Tasked with chasing 102 runs to win, RCB made light work of Punjab bowlers as they chased down the total in 10 overs. Phil Salt was in top form as he scored an unbeaten 56 off 27 to take his side into the final of the IPL 2025. He was supported by Virat Kohli (12), Mayak Agarwal (19) and skipper Rajat Patidar (unbeaten 15).&nbsp;Kyle Jamieson and Musheer Khan got one wicket each, but with no big total on the board, RCB clinched the one-sided contest easily.&nbsp;<h2>RCB dream of maiden IPL title</h2>&nbsp;This will be RCB’s fourth IPL final, having lost on all three previous occasions. They lost the 2009 final to Deccan Chargers, 2011 to Chennai Super Kings and the 2016 summit clash to SunRisers Hyderabad. RCB also lost two finals in the now-defunct Champions League. RCB’s only success has come in the Women’s Premier League when Smriti Mandhana’s side won the title in 2024.&nbsp;RCB will face the winner of Qualifier 2 on Tuesday (June 3) at the iconic Narendra Modi Stadium in Ahmedabad.

Chennai Super Kings star bowler Ravichandran Ashwin has backed Royal Challengers Bengaluru (RCB) to win the Indian Premier League (IPL 2025) title as they reached the summit clash with a win in Qualifier 1 on Thursday (May 29).

Chennai Super Kings star bowler Ravichandran Ashwin has backed Royal Challengers Bengaluru (RCB) to win the Indian Premier League (IPL 2025) title as they reached the summit clash with a win in Qualifier 1 on Thursday (May 29). However, according to Ashwin Mumbai Indians will be the biggest threat who could stop RCB from winning the title. The five-time champions are hungry for success but could only face RCB if they win the Eliminator and Qualifier 2 contest. Ashwin backs RCB but with a twist “If RCB have to win the IPL, then Gujarat Titans should win against Mumbai Indians. MI are one team that you cannot allow to enter the final, you have to stop them at any cost,” Ashwin said on his YouTube channel. RCB punch ticket for final Tasked with chasing 102 runs to win, RCB made light work of Punjab bowlers as they chased down the total in 10 overs. Phil Salt was in top form as he scored an unbeaten 56 off 27 to take his side into the final of the IPL 2025. He was supported by Virat Kohli (12), Mayak Agarwal (19) and skipper Rajat Patidar (unbeaten 15). Kyle Jamieson and Musheer Khan got one wicket each, but with no big total on the board, RCB clinched the one-sided contest easily. RCB dream of maiden IPL title This will be RCB’s fourth IPL final, having lost on all three previous occasions. They lost the 2009 final to Deccan Chargers, 2011 to Chennai Super Kings and the 2016 summit clash to SunRisers Hyderabad. RCB also lost two finals in the now-defunct Champions League. RCB’s only success has come in the Women’s Premier League when Smriti Mandhana’s side won the title in 2024. RCB will face the winner of Qualifier 2 on Tuesday (June 3) at the iconic Narendra Modi Stadium in Ahmedabad.

Chennai Super Kings star bowler Ravichandran Ashwin has backed Royal Challengers Bengaluru (RCB) to win the Indian Premier League (IPL 2025) title as they reached the summit clash with a win in Qualifier 1 on Thursday (May 29).

'If RCB have to win the IPL 2025, then...': Ravichandran Ashwin makes bold prediction after Qualifier 1 win

England defender Trent Alexander-Arnold has officially joined La Liga side and 15-time European champions Real Madrid ahead of the upcoming FIFA Club World Cup in the United States. In a statement released on Friday (May 30), the former Liverpool defender will become the latest Galactico to transfer from a Premier League side. Despite his contract running out, Real will pay Liverpool a signing-on fee as he came through the academy system of the Merseyside club.

<blockquote class="twitter-tweet">Official Announcement: Alexander-Arnold.<a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/RealMadrid?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#RealMadrid</a> | <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/WelcomeTrent?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#WelcomeTrent</a>&mdash; Real Madrid C.F. 🇬🇧🇺🇸 (@realmadriden) <a href="https://twitter.com/realmadriden/status/1928394302272516201?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">May 30, 2025</a></blockquote> <script async src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script>

<h2>Alexander-Arnold joins Real Madrid</h2>"Alexander-Arnold will be playing for Real Madrid in the Club World Cup," Real Madrid confirmed in a statement.&nbsp;Having been long linked to Real Madrid, the transfer was made official on Friday as he joined the likes of Steve McManaman, David Beckham and other big English names to play for the Spanish giants.&nbsp;&nbsp;Liverpool also put out a statement after the move was made official ahead of the opening of the summer transfer window.&nbsp;"The full-back is now set to join the La Liga club ahead of the expiry of his Reds contract this summer. Liverpool will receive a fee for his services, with the deal to be concluded once the window opens on June 1,” Liverpool said in a statement.&nbsp;The 26-year-old England international joins the club after winning nine trophies with Liverpool: Champions League (1), Club World Cup (1), Uefa Super Cup (1), Premier League (2), FA Cup (1), League Cup (2), and Community Shield (1).&nbsp;He becomes the second player signed this summer by Real, who earlier sealed a deal for Dean Huijsen, who will join the club on June 1. They join new manager Xabi Alonso on the list of new names that arrived in the summer.&nbsp;Both Alexander-Arnold and Huijsen are eligible to play in the upcoming FIFA Club World Cup that takes place in June.

England defender Trent Alexander-Arnold has officially joined La Liga side and 15-time European champions Real Madrid ahead of the upcoming FIFA Club World Cup in the United States.

England defender Trent Alexander-Arnold has officially joined La Liga side and 15-time European champions Real Madrid ahead of the upcoming FIFA Club World Cup in the United States. In a statement released on Friday (May 30), the former Liverpool defender will become the latest Galactico to transfer from a Premier League side. Despite his contract running out, Real will pay Liverpool a signing-on fee as he came through the academy system of the Merseyside club.

England defender Trent Alexander-Arnold has officially joined La Liga side and 15-time European champions Real Madrid ahead of the upcoming FIFA Club World Cup in the United States.

Real Madrid officially announce Trent Alexander-Arnold signing ahead of Club World Cup

Indian Prime Minister<a href="https://www.wionews.com/tags/narendra-modi"> Narendra Modi</a> meets 14-year-old IPL sensation, <a href="https://www.wionews.com/tags/vaibhav-suryavanshi">Vaibhav Suryavasnhi </a>at the Jayprakash Narayan Airport in Bihar on Friday (May 30). Vaibhav was accompanied by his parents at the Patna airport.&nbsp;PM Modi shared his meeting moments with Vaibhav Suryavanshi on social media. He hailed Vaibhav's batting skills and wished him good luck in his cricketing career. In a post on X, he expressed, “At Patna airport, met the young cricketing sensation Vaibhav Suryavanshi and his family. His cricketing skills are being admired all over the nation! My best wishes to him for his future endeavors.”

<blockquote class="twitter-tweet">At Patna airport, met the young cricketing sensation Vaibhav Suryavanshi and his family. His cricketing skills are being admired all over the nation! My best wishes to him for his future endeavours. <a href="https://t.co/pvUrbzdyU6">pic.twitter.com/pvUrbzdyU6</a>&mdash; Narendra Modi (@narendramodi) <a href="https://twitter.com/narendramodi/status/1928365755839476062?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">May 30, 2025</a></blockquote> <script async src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script>

This visit comes as PM Modi is on a two-day visit to poll-bound Bihar. On Thursday (May 29),&nbsp;PM Modi inaugurated the new terminal building of Jayprakash Narayan International Airport, also known as Patna Airport and even held a roadshow in Patna, the capital city of Bihar.&nbsp;Also Read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/ipl-2025-eliminator-mi-vs-gt-match-preview-no-second-chance-as-gujarat-mumbai-prepare-1748588333787">Preview - No second chance as Gujarat-Mumbai prepare for IPL 2025 Eliminator</a>&nbsp;Earlier, Rajasthan Royals (RR) opening batter had a tremendous outing in his debut IPL season. In seven matches, he amassed 252 runs with an average of 36. The young gun smashed all around the park with an electric strike of over 200.&nbsp;Hailing from Samastipur, Vaibhav broke the IPL records by smashing a 35-ball century against Gujarat Titans. He hit premium bowlers like Prasidh Krishna, Mohammed Siraj, Ishant Sharma and Rashid Khan, bringing them on their feet. With that ton, he became the youngest Indian to score a century in the IPL. Additionally, he overpassed Yusuf Pathan to smash the fastest century by an Indian in the history of the league.&nbsp;Meanwhile in IPL 2025, Gujarat Titans will be facing Mumbai Indians in the Eliminator clash on Friday (May 30) in New Chandigarh stadium. The winner of this game will play PBKS in the Qualifier 2, who lost to Rajat Patidar-led RCB in Qualifier 1 clash.&nbsp;Vaibhav Suryavanshi IPL 2025 stats

<figure class="table"><table><tbody><tr><td>Matches</td><td>Runs</td><td>Average</td><td>Strike Rate</td><td>Best score</td><td>Hundreds</td><td>Fifties</td></tr><tr><td>7</td><td>252</td><td>36</td><td>206.55</td><td>101</td><td>1</td><td>1</td></tr></tbody></table></figure>

Hailing from Samastipur, Vaibhav broke the IPL records by smashing a 35-ball century against Gujarat Titans. He smashed premium bowlers like Prasidh Krishna, Mohammed Siraj, Ishant Sharma and Rashid bringing them on their feet.

Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi meets 14-year-old IPL sensation, Vaibhav Suryavasnhi at the Jayprakash Narayan Airport in Bihar on Friday (May 30). Vaibhav was accompanied by his parents at the Patna airport. PM Modi shared his meeting moments with Vaibhav Suryavanshi on social media. He hailed Vaibhav's batting skills and wished him good luck in his cricketing career. In a post on X, he expressed, “At Patna airport, met the young cricketing sensation Vaibhav Suryavanshi and his family. His cricketing skills are being admired all over the nation! My best wishes to him for his future endeavors.”

Hailing from Samastipur, Vaibhav broke the IPL record by smashing a 35-ball century against Gujarat Titans.

'His cricketing skills are being admired all over the nation': PM Modi hails IPL sensation Vaibhav Suryavanshi

Ace India fast bowler <a href="https://www.wionews.com/tags/jasprit-bumrah">Jasprit Bumrah</a> has opened up about the challenges of playing all three cricket formats, maintaining a good shape and his anticipation for cricket’s inclusion in the <a href="https://www.wionews.com/tags/olympics">LA 28 Olympics</a>. Speaking to former Australia captain<a href="https://www.wionews.com/tags/michael-clarke"> Michael Clarke</a> on the Beyond23 Cricket Podcast, Bumrah spoke about how he looks after his body and what keeps him going in international cricket.&nbsp;The pace spearhead admitted that playing all formats regularly is not easy and takes a toll on the body.&nbsp;&nbsp;“Yeah, it is obviously tough for any individual to keep playing everything,” he said. “I’ve been doing it for a while, but you have to understand where your body is going and which tournament is more important. So you have to be a little selective and smart about how you use your body.”&nbsp;Also Read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/gt-vs-mi-eliminator-check-weather-forecast-pitch-report-all-you-need-to-know-before-the-big-game-cricket-sports-ipl-2025-1748585747990">GT vs MI Eliminator | Check weather forecast, pitch report. All you need to know before the big game</a>&nbsp;Even with the physical demands, Bumrah’s love for cricket remains strong.&nbsp;&nbsp;“As a cricketer, I never want to leave anything. I always want to keep going. Right now, I’m okay physically, and I take things one day at a time,” he added.

The 31-year-old continued that he doesn’t set goals anymore and prefers to enjoy the game without putting pressure on himself.&nbsp;&nbsp;“I’ve learned to listen to my body and not force expectations. The journey is going good so far. The day I feel the drive is gone or my body isn’t holding up, that’s when I’ll take a call. But right now, I’m fine.”&nbsp;Meanwhile, Bumrah also shared his happiness about cricket being included in the Olympics in the future.&nbsp;&nbsp;“I’ve heard cricket is coming to the Olympics, and that’s something I’m really looking forward to. Who would’ve thought? It’s very exciting,” he said.&nbsp;He, however, concluded on a thoughtful note, saying, “I don’t set goals anymore because every time I have, I haven’t been able to fulfil them. I try to enjoy the game because that’s why I started playing it. I take it one day at a time and collect memories that’s what I’ll remember in the end.”

The 31-year-old said that he doesn’t set goals anymore and prefers to enjoy the game without putting pressure on himself. “I’ve learned to listen to my body and not force expectations.

Ace India fast bowler Jasprit Bumrah has opened up about the challenges of playing all three cricket formats, maintaining a good shape and his anticipation for cricket’s inclusion in the LA 28 Olympics. Speaking to former Australia captain Michael Clarke on the Beyond23 Cricket Podcast, Bumrah spoke about how he looks after his body and what keeps him going in international cricket. The pace spearhead admitted that playing all formats regularly is not easy and takes a toll on the body. “Yeah, it is obviously tough for any individual to keep playing everything,” he said. “I’ve been doing it for a while, but you have to understand where your body is going and which tournament is more important. So you have to be a little selective and smart about how you use your body.” Also Read | GT vs MI Eliminator | Check weather forecast, pitch report. All you need to know before the big game Even with the physical demands, Bumrah’s love for cricket remains strong. “As a cricketer, I never want to leave anything. I always want to keep going. Right now, I’m okay physically, and I take things one day at a time,” he added.

The 31-year-old said that he doesn’t set goals anymore and prefers to enjoy the game without putting pressure on himself.

'I am looking forward to cricket at OIympics': Jasprit Bumrah shares his excitement for LA28 Games

Amid the ongoing IPL 2025 playoffs, some movement is occurring in the UK within the India-A squad ahead of their warm-up fixtures, starting Friday (May 30). Per the latest report, a key member of the senior team picked for the five-match Test series against England will link up with the A squad to get much-needed practice ahead of the challenging tour. While a few are busy with the IPL knockouts, those scheduled to travel in different batches are gearing up for the Test series.&nbsp;Ace batter KL Rahul will join the India-A squad in the UK and play the second warm-up match against England Lions in Northampton beginning June 6. Per an Indian Express report, Rahul will fly to England on Monday (June 2), earlier before the main squad leaves for the tour.&nbsp;&nbsp;Also read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/ipl-2025-we-have-lost-the-battle-but-not-the-war-pbks-captain-shreyas-iyer-not-ready-to-drop-guard-despite-qualifier-1-thrashing-rcb-1748595606502">‘We have lost the battle but not the war’: PBKS captain Iyer not ready to drop guard despite Qualifier 1 thrashing</a> &nbsp;Part of the 18-man squad for England Tests, Rahul has informed BCCI of his decision to play the second practice match following his IPL team, Delhi Capitals’ exit from the ongoing season. &nbsp;“He will be flying on Monday and will be playing a second warm-up game with the India A side. As he is part of the senior men’s team, which will be playing five Test matches in the series, these matches will give him game time and match practice,” a BCCI source close to the information said, as&nbsp;quoted by the Indian Express. &nbsp;While India-A begins their shadow tour in Canterbury, a full-strength Indian team will play them in an intra-squad match in Beckenham on June 13 before facing England in the first Test in Leeds starting June 20. &nbsp;Meanwhile, Rahul played as an opener on India’s last away tour against Australia Down Under, scoring 255 runs in five Tests at an average of 30.66, including two fifties. Although his first game heroics (26 and 77) helped India win the Perth Test, he failed to maximise his form in the remaining matches, where, after Rohit Sharma’s return to the side, his position shuffled across, leading to instability and thus lack of runs.

Key senior team batter included in India-A squad for second warm up game in England

Amid the ongoing IPL 2025 playoffs, some movement is occurring in the UK within the India-A squad ahead of their warm-up fixtures, starting Friday (May 30). Per the latest report, a key member of the senior team picked for the five-match Test series against England will link up with the A squad to get much-needed practice ahead of the challenging tour. While a few are busy with the IPL knockouts, those scheduled to travel in different batches are gearing up for the Test series. Ace batter KL Rahul will join the India-A squad in the UK and play the second warm-up match against England Lions in Northampton beginning June 6. Per an Indian Express report, Rahul will fly to England on Monday (June 2), earlier before the main squad leaves for the tour. Also read | ‘We have lost the battle but not the war’: PBKS captain Iyer not ready to drop guard despite Qualifier 1 thrashing Part of the 18-man squad for England Tests, Rahul has informed BCCI of his decision to play the second practice match following his IPL team, Delhi Capitals’ exit from the ongoing season. “He will be flying on Monday and will be playing a second warm-up game with the India A side. As he is part of the senior men’s team, which will be playing five Test matches in the series, these matches will give him game time and match practice,” a BCCI source close to the information said, as quoted by the Indian Express. While India-A begins their shadow tour in Canterbury, a full-strength Indian team will play them in an intra-squad match in Beckenham on June 13 before facing England in the first Test in Leeds starting June 20. Meanwhile, Rahul played as an opener on India’s last away tour against Australia Down Under, scoring 255 runs in five Tests at an average of 30.66, including two fifties. Although his first game heroics (26 and 77) helped India win the Perth Test, he failed to maximise his form in the remaining matches, where, after Rohit Sharma’s return to the side, his position shuffled across, leading to instability and thus lack of runs.

While a few are busy with the IPL knockouts, those scheduled to travel in different batches are gearing up for the Test series.

Key senior team batter included in India-A squad for second warm-up game in England

Punjab Kings (PBKS) captain Shreyas Iyer is not ready to drop the guard despite his team suffering an eight-wicket loss at the hands of Royal Challengers Bengaluru (RCB) in IPL 2025 Qualifier 1 in Mullanpur. The table toppers were a pale shadow of themselves in the first playoff game this season, getting all out on a mere 101 inside 15 overs. Though they had their moments in the second innings, the hosts failed to defend the total as RCB won the match and qualified for the final.&nbsp;Punjab batted first on a tricky Mullanpur pitch, losing four wickets inside the Powerplay, including their captain, Iyer. RCB seamers Bhuvneshwar Kumar, Yash Dayal and returning Josh Hazlewood all made light work of all PBKS run-getters before spinner Suyesh Sharma broke their back with three wickets in his first two overs.&nbsp;Also read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/ipl-2025-eliminator-mi-vs-gt-match-preview-no-second-chance-as-gujarat-mumbai-prepare-1748588333787">Preview - No second chance as Gujarat-Mumbai prepare for IPL 2025 Eliminator</a> &nbsp;Overseas all-rounders Marcus Stoinis and Azmatullah Omarzai tried saving Punjab’s sinking ship but failed, as they got out cheaply in front of their home crowd. In the second innings, they picked two wickets but conceded the result inside 11 overs. &nbsp;However, they are not out of the tournament yet; to finish inside the top two, they must win Qualifier 2, where they face the winner of the Eliminator between Mumbai Indians and Gujarat Titans. &nbsp;“Not a day to forget, but got to go back to the drawing board. We lost a lot of wickets (in the first innings. There’s a lot to go back and study on,” Iyer reflected on his side’s eight-wicket loss against RCB. &nbsp;He, however, backed his planning for this clash but admitted that failed execution led to this outcome, which they need to work on before the next game. &nbsp;“I am not doubting my decisions, to be honest. Whatever we did in terms of planning, outside of the ground whatever (planning) we did, I think it was on point. Just that we couldn’t execute it on the field,” Iyer continued.&nbsp;&nbsp;“Can’t even blame the bowlers, as it was a low total to defend. We’ve got to work on our batting, especially on this wicket. In all the games we have played here, there has been some variable bounce.” &nbsp;He concluded by saying, “We can’t give such reasons because we are professionals at the end of the day, and we have to bat according to the situation and we have to live up to it.”

‘We have lost the battle but not the war’: PBKS captain Iyer not ready to drop guard despite Qualifier 1 thrashing

Punjab Kings (PBKS) captain Shreyas Iyer is not ready to drop the guard despite his team suffering an eight-wicket loss at the hands of Royal Challengers Bengaluru (RCB) in IPL 2025 Qualifier 1 in Mullanpur. The table toppers were a pale shadow of themselves in the first playoff game this season, getting all out on a mere 101 inside 15 overs. Though they had their moments in the second innings, the hosts failed to defend the total as RCB won the match and qualified for the final. Punjab batted first on a tricky Mullanpur pitch, losing four wickets inside the Powerplay, including their captain, Iyer. RCB seamers Bhuvneshwar Kumar, Yash Dayal and returning Josh Hazlewood all made light work of all PBKS run-getters before spinner Suyesh Sharma broke their back with three wickets in his first two overs. Also read | Preview - No second chance as Gujarat-Mumbai prepare for IPL 2025 Eliminator Overseas all-rounders Marcus Stoinis and Azmatullah Omarzai tried saving Punjab’s sinking ship but failed, as they got out cheaply in front of their home crowd. In the second innings, they picked two wickets but conceded the result inside 11 overs. However, they are not out of the tournament yet; to finish inside the top two, they must win Qualifier 2, where they face the winner of the Eliminator between Mumbai Indians and Gujarat Titans. “Not a day to forget, but got to go back to the drawing board. We lost a lot of wickets (in the first innings. There’s a lot to go back and study on,” Iyer reflected on his side’s eight-wicket loss against RCB. He, however, backed his planning for this clash but admitted that failed execution led to this outcome, which they need to work on before the next game. “I am not doubting my decisions, to be honest. Whatever we did in terms of planning, outside of the ground whatever (planning) we did, I think it was on point. Just that we couldn’t execute it on the field,” Iyer continued. “Can’t even blame the bowlers, as it was a low total to defend. We’ve got to work on our batting, especially on this wicket. In all the games we have played here, there has been some variable bounce.” He concluded by saying, “We can’t give such reasons because we are professionals at the end of the day, and we have to bat according to the situation and we have to live up to it.”

PBKS are not out of the tournament yet; to finish inside the top two, they must win Qualifier 2, where they face the winner of the Eliminator between Mumbai Indians and Gujarat Titans.

Gujarat Titans (GT) and <a href="https://www.wionews.com/tags/mumbai-indians">Mumbai Indians (MI)</a> are set to clash in the high-stakes <a href="https://www.wionews.com/tags/eliminator">Eliminator</a> of IPL 2025 at the New Chandigarh Stadium on Friday (May 30). Both teams had strong phases in the league stage where GT had started as table-toppers and MI had everyone bite their nails after a poor start in the initial five games.&nbsp;But neither of them could maintain consistency and missed out on the top two spots. Now, both teams will look to win this one and advance ahead in the tournament. The winner of this match will go on to face Punjab Kings (PBKS) in Qualifier 2 on Sunday (June 1) in Ahmedabad.&nbsp;Pitch Report&nbsp;&nbsp;The Mullanpur pitch has shown a mixed nature so far. Out of five games played here, teams batting first have won three times. But the recent match between PBKS and RCB for Qualifier 1, suggests early pace can dominate. In that match, Josh Hazlewood, Bhuvneshwar Kumar, and Yash Dayal ripped through the PBKS top order during the powerplay. Later, Suyash Sharma’s spin took control of the remaining batters.&nbsp;Also Read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/photos/ipl-2025-gt-vs-mi-eliminator-head-to-head-in-playoff-records-and-iconic-performances-1748524107177">IPL 2025 | GT vs MI Eliminator: Head-to-head, playoff records and iconic performances</a>&nbsp;The fact that neither GT nor MI have played in Mullanpur this season makes this clash more fascinating. The team that adapts early to the conditions will be ahead in the game..&nbsp;Weather Report&nbsp;Chandigarh has seen warm and dry days recently, and Thursday will be no different. The temperature is expected to be around 30°C during the match. There is no rain forecast, so we’re all set for a full game.&nbsp;As per the Indian Meteorological Department(IMD), the weather in Mullanpur will be slightly cloudy, and there is a 10 per cent chance of rain. However, it will most likely be passing showers, but won't affect the course of the game as additional 120 minutes have been allotted to the fixture to complete a full 40-over match.&nbsp;The last time when GT and MI had met, it was a rain-affected match, where GT had won a last-ball thriller in Mumbai.

The Mullanpur pitch has shown a mixed nature so far. Out of five games played here, teams batting first have won three times. But the recent match between PBKS and RCB for Qualifier 1, suggests early pace bowling can dominate.

Gujarat Titans (GT) and Mumbai Indians (MI) are set to clash in the high-stakes Eliminator of IPL 2025 at the New Chandigarh Stadium on Friday (May 30). Both teams had strong phases in the league stage where GT had started as table-toppers and MI had everyone bite their nails after a poor start in the initial five games. But neither of them could maintain consistency and missed out on the top two spots. Now, both teams will look to win this one and advance ahead in the tournament. The winner of this match will go on to face Punjab Kings (PBKS) in Qualifier 2 on Sunday (June 1) in Ahmedabad. Pitch Report The Mullanpur pitch has shown a mixed nature so far. Out of five games played here, teams batting first have won three times. But the recent match between PBKS and RCB for Qualifier 1, suggests early pace can dominate. In that match, Josh Hazlewood, Bhuvneshwar Kumar, and Yash Dayal ripped through the PBKS top order during the powerplay. Later, Suyash Sharma’s spin took control of the remaining batters. Also Read | IPL 2025 | GT vs MI Eliminator: Head-to-head, playoff records and iconic performances The fact that neither GT nor MI have played in Mullanpur this season makes this clash more fascinating. The team that adapts early to the conditions will be ahead in the game.. Weather Report Chandigarh has seen warm and dry days recently, and Thursday will be no different. The temperature is expected to be around 30°C during the match. There is no rain forecast, so we’re all set for a full game. As per the Indian Meteorological Department(IMD), the weather in Mullanpur will be slightly cloudy, and there is a 10 per cent chance of rain. However, it will most likely be passing showers, but won't affect the course of the game as additional 120 minutes have been allotted to the fixture to complete a full 40-over match. The last time when GT and MI had met, it was a rain-affected match, where GT had won a last-ball thriller in Mumbai.

The Mullanpur pitch has shown a mixed nature so far. Out of five games played here, teams batting first have won three times. But the recent match between PBKS and RCB for Qualifier 1, suggests early pace can dominate.

GT vs MI Eliminator | Check weather forecast, pitch report. All you need to know before the big game

Mumbai Indians (MI) and Gujarat Titans (GT) will face off in a crucial IPL 2025 Eliminator on Friday (May 30) in Mullanpur, with both aiming to cross this playoff hurdle and win back the coveted trophy. While the winner faces Punjab Kings in the Qualifier 2 in Ahmedabad on Sunday (June 1), the loser gets knocked out of the tournament, making it a do-or-die game. Here is the match preview of the IPL 2025 Eliminator between MI and GT.<h2>Preview – &nbsp;</h2>Starting with the former five-time champions Mumbai Indians, the Hardik Pandya-led star-studded franchise repeated past heroics to reach the final four this season. Following another shallow start to the season, Mumbai picked up pace after Jasprit Bumrah’s return, winning matches on the trot and sealing the playoff berth. Though they failed to finish inside the top two, they managed to keep their place intact, aiming to chase the ultimate glory – an IPL trophy. &nbsp;However, owing to the revised schedule caused by prevailing tensions between India and Pakistan early this month, several first-team players have returned to honour international commitments, with a few new faces joining the franchise just ahead of the playoffs. Their absence could likely hurt the plans heading into this Eliminator. &nbsp;Moreover, the focus remains on the bowling attack led by Bumrah.<h3>GT’s power run till the playoffs &nbsp;</h3>For the longest time this season, Gujarat stayed at the top of the points table. They looked like an unstoppable force unless the tournament resumed following a short break, where they lost matches in clusters and conceded the chance of bagging the top two spot.&nbsp; &nbsp;Despite having all the arsenal with them, they failed to get past the winning line, even losing to the bottom-placed Chennai Super Kings (CSK) in their last league game. However, barring Jos Buttler and Kagiso Rabada, GT has secured their overseas players for the remaining matches this season.&nbsp; &nbsp;Also, considering they have their replacements ready for the playoffs, GT would bank on its run-scoring top-order to get the job done against high-flying Mumbai Indians. &nbsp;Here are the predicted playing XIs of both teams – &nbsp;Mumbai Indians - Rohit Sharma, Jonny Bairstow, Suryakumar Yadav, Charith Asalanka, Tilak Varma, Hardik Pandya, Naman Dhir, Mitchell Santner, Deepak Chahar, Trent Boult, Jasprit Bumrah and Ashwani Kumar/Karn&nbsp;Sharma &nbsp;Gujarat Titans - Sai Sudharsan, Shubman Gill, Kusal Mendis, Sherfane Rutherford, Shahrukh Khan, Rahul Tewatia, Rashid Khan, Gerald Coetzee, Arshad Khan, R Sai Kishore, Mohammed Siraj and Prasidh Krishna

Preview - No second chance as Gujarat-Mumbai prepare for IPL 2025 Eliminator

Mumbai Indians (MI) and Gujarat Titans (GT) will face off in a crucial IPL 2025 Eliminator on Friday (May 30) in Mullanpur, with both aiming to cross this playoff hurdle and win back the coveted trophy. While the winner faces Punjab Kings in the Qualifier 2 in Ahmedabad on Sunday (June 1), the loser gets knocked out of the tournament, making it a do-or-die game. Here is the match preview of the IPL 2025 Eliminator between MI and GT. Preview – Starting with the former five-time champions Mumbai Indians, the Hardik Pandya-led star-studded franchise repeated past heroics to reach the final four this season. Following another shallow start to the season, Mumbai picked up pace after Jasprit Bumrah’s return, winning matches on the trot and sealing the playoff berth. Though they failed to finish inside the top two, they managed to keep their place intact, aiming to chase the ultimate glory – an IPL trophy. However, owing to the revised schedule caused by prevailing tensions between India and Pakistan early this month, several first-team players have returned to honour international commitments, with a few new faces joining the franchise just ahead of the playoffs. Their absence could likely hurt the plans heading into this Eliminator. Moreover, the focus remains on the bowling attack led by Bumrah. GT’s power run till the playoffs For the longest time this season, Gujarat stayed at the top of the points table. They looked like an unstoppable force unless the tournament resumed following a short break, where they lost matches in clusters and conceded the chance of bagging the top two spot. Despite having all the arsenal with them, they failed to get past the winning line, even losing to the bottom-placed Chennai Super Kings (CSK) in their last league game. However, barring Jos Buttler and Kagiso Rabada, GT has secured their overseas players for the remaining matches this season. Also, considering they have their replacements ready for the playoffs, GT would bank on its run-scoring top-order to get the job done against high-flying Mumbai Indians. Here are the predicted playing XIs of both teams – Mumbai Indians - Rohit Sharma, Jonny Bairstow, Suryakumar Yadav, Charith Asalanka, Tilak Varma, Hardik Pandya, Naman Dhir, Mitchell Santner, Deepak Chahar, Trent Boult, Jasprit Bumrah and Ashwani Kumar/Karn Sharma Gujarat Titans - Sai Sudharsan, Shubman Gill, Kusal Mendis, Sherfane Rutherford, Shahrukh Khan, Rahul Tewatia, Rashid Khan, Gerald Coetzee, Arshad Khan, R Sai Kishore, Mohammed Siraj and Prasidh Krishna

While the winner faces Punjab Kings in the Qualifier 2 in Ahmedabad on Sunday (June 1), the loser gets knocked out of the tournament, making it a do-or-die game.

The Indian Premier League (IPL 2025) had a dramatic evening on Thursday (May 29) as Royal Challengers Bengaluru (RCB) booked their place in the fourth final in a one-sided contest. While the weather was kind to RCB, that may not be the case on Friday ahead of the Eliminator clash between Mumbai Indians and Gujarat Titans. So what happens to the GT vs MI Eliminator clash if the match gets washed out?<h2>Who will advance to Qualifier 2?</h2>As things stand, the weather in Chandigarh has changed overnight with rain playing a crucial role. While there was no rain during Qualifier 1 on Thursday, the overnight showers could play a role. If the theme remains the same and it rains during the Eliminator clash, then overs could be trimmed to get at least a five-over per side match.&nbsp;&nbsp;For a five-over per side match, the cut-off time is 11:56 PM meaning a game could take place. However, if no ball is bowled the match will abandoned.<h2>Is there a reserve day for the Eliminator clash?</h2>&nbsp;No, there is no reserve day for the Eliminator clash between Mumbai and Gujarat. The reserve day is only in place for the IPL final which takes place on June 3.<h2>Who will advance to Q2 if Eliminator is washed out?</h2>In case the Eliminator clash is called off, Gujarat Titans will advance to the Qualifier 2 as they finished above Mumbai in the IPL league stage standings. While the head-to-head clash won’t be part of the equation, Gujarat beat Mumbai on both occasions.&nbsp;&nbsp;If this is the case, Gujarat will face Punjab Kings in Qualifier 2 as the latter lost to RCB on Thursday in Qualifier 1. RCB beat PBKs by eight wickets and booked their place in the summit clash for the fourth time and now stand a step closer to the maiden IPL title.

The Indian Premier League (IPL 2025) had a dramatic evening on Thursday (May 29) as Royal Challengers Bengaluru (RCB) booked their place in the fourth final in a one-sided contest. 

The Indian Premier League (IPL 2025) had a dramatic evening on Thursday (May 29) as Royal Challengers Bengaluru (RCB) booked their place in the fourth final in a one-sided contest. While the weather was kind to RCB, that may not be the case on Friday ahead of the Eliminator clash between Mumbai Indians and Gujarat Titans. So what happens to the GT vs MI Eliminator clash if the match gets washed out? Who will advance to Qualifier 2? As things stand, the weather in Chandigarh has changed overnight with rain playing a crucial role. While there was no rain during Qualifier 1 on Thursday, the overnight showers could play a role. If the theme remains the same and it rains during the Eliminator clash, then overs could be trimmed to get at least a five-over per side match. For a five-over per side match, the cut-off time is 11:56 PM meaning a game could take place. However, if no ball is bowled the match will abandoned. Is there a reserve day for the Eliminator clash? No, there is no reserve day for the Eliminator clash between Mumbai and Gujarat. The reserve day is only in place for the IPL final which takes place on June 3. Who will advance to Q2 if Eliminator is washed out? In case the Eliminator clash is called off, Gujarat Titans will advance to the Qualifier 2 as they finished above Mumbai in the IPL league stage standings. While the head-to-head clash won’t be part of the equation, Gujarat beat Mumbai on both occasions. If this is the case, Gujarat will face Punjab Kings in Qualifier 2 as the latter lost to RCB on Thursday in Qualifier 1. RCB beat PBKs by eight wickets and booked their place in the summit clash for the fourth time and now stand a step closer to the maiden IPL title.

The Indian Premier League (IPL 2025) had a dramatic evening on Thursday (May 29) as Royal Challengers Bengaluru (RCB) booked their place in the fourth final in a one-sided contest.&nbsp;

IPL 2025: What happens if GT vs MI Eliminator clash gets washed out, is there a reserve day? - Check all details

Virat Kohli signalled ‘one more to go’ to his wife, Anushka Sharma, after his team, Royal Challengers Bengaluru (RCB), beat hosts Punjab Kings (PBKS) by eight wickets in IPL 2025 Qualifier 1 on Thursday (May 29), punching their ticket for the tournament final. RCB reached their fourth IPL final to date, after having lost the previous three (2009, 2011 and 2016), with Virat, his teammates, and all franchise fans in attendance in Mullanpur celebrating this statement win over table-toppers PBKS.&nbsp;Virat looked elated with RCB’s eight-wicket win inside 11 overs. Though he contributed with a couple of fours in his brief stay (12) at the crease, Kohli remained an integral part of the team’s success this season, having amassed 626 runs in 15 contested matches. With his team now playing the summit clash, Kohli and RCB are just one win away from realising their dream of winning an IPL final.<h3>Watch Video –</h3>

<blockquote class="twitter-tweet">From doubted to destined. RCB’s in the IPL 2025 FINAL after a lot of grit, grind and glorious cricket! 🔥👑 <a href="https://t.co/vohcGJzbsg">pic.twitter.com/vohcGJzbsg</a>&mdash; Royal Challengers Bengaluru (@RCBTweets) <a href="https://twitter.com/RCBTweets/status/1928141556436840698?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">May 29, 2025</a></blockquote> <script async src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script>

Besides, RCB maintained their away win record this season. After creating history by becoming the first team ever to win all away matches in a season, RCB stretched its streak with one more in Qualifier 1, stamping its authority this year. &nbsp;&nbsp;Also read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/cricket-watch-suyash-sharma-wreaks-havoc-with-dream-spell-as-rcb-narrow-pbks-in-qualifier-1-of-ipl-2025-playoffs-1748530439909">Watch: Suyash Sharma wreaks havoc with dream spell as RCB narrow PBKS in Qualifier 1 of IPL 2025 Playoffs</a> &nbsp;Unlike how it panned out in the previous game, RCB bowlers did an incredible job in New Chandigarh by reducing batting-heavy PBKS to just 101 in the first innings. Sending them to bat first after winning the toss, RCB seamers picked four wickets inside the Powerplay, including removing their captain Shreyas Iyer and star batter Josh Inglis; two openers – Priyansh Arya and Prabhsimran Singh got out inside the first six overs too. &nbsp;Marcus Stoinis tried saving Punjab’s sinking ship but failed, as spinner Suyash Sharma wreaked havoc with three wickets in the middle overs. Returning Josh Hazlewood picked as many as PBKS were all out inside 15 overs.<h2>Salt rubs salt on Punjab’s wounds &nbsp;</h2>Phil Salt was the star of the second innings, hitting an unbeaten and match-winning fifty (56 off 27 balls).&nbsp;&nbsp;However, Punjab found early success in Kohli’s wicket, with Kyle Jamieson accounting for the Indian great; the debutant Musheer Khan removed RCB’s Impact Sub Mayank Agarwal on 19.&nbsp; &nbsp;Those two were the only wickets that fell in the second innings, as RCB completed the run chase with utter ease. &nbsp;They will now face the winner of the Qualifier 2 (Sunday) on Tuesday (May 3) in the IPL 2025 final.

IPL 2025 Kohli signals one more to go to wife Anushka as RCB fans celebrate lop sided win in Qualifier 1

Virat Kohli signalled ‘one more to go’ to his wife, Anushka Sharma, after his team, Royal Challengers Bengaluru (RCB), beat hosts Punjab Kings (PBKS) by eight wickets in IPL 2025 Qualifier 1 on Thursday (May 29), punching their ticket for the tournament final. RCB reached their fourth IPL final to date, after having lost the previous three (2009, 2011 and 2016), with Virat, his teammates, and all franchise fans in attendance in Mullanpur celebrating this statement win over table-toppers PBKS. Virat looked elated with RCB’s eight-wicket win inside 11 overs. Though he contributed with a couple of fours in his brief stay (12) at the crease, Kohli remained an integral part of the team’s success this season, having amassed 626 runs in 15 contested matches. With his team now playing the summit clash, Kohli and RCB are just one win away from realising their dream of winning an IPL final. Watch Video –

Royal Challengers Bengaluru will now face the winner of the Qualifier 2 (Sunday) on Tuesday (May 3) in the IPL 2025 final.&nbsp;

IPL 2025: Kohli signals ‘one more to go’ to wife Anushka, as RCB fans celebrate lop-sided win in Qualifier 1

Harry Brook predicted Jacob Bethell "will be some player" after the 21-year-old rising star impressed in England's thumping victory over the West Indies in the first one-day international at Edgbaston on Thursday. There has long been talk over whether Bethell, recently returned from IPL duty, will go straight back into the Test side for the upcoming five-match series with India.&nbsp;Also read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/cricket-ipl-2025-josh-hazlewood-suyash-sharma-run-riot-in-qualifier-1-as-rcb-down-pbks-punch-ticket-in-fourth-final-1748535305278">IPL 2025: Josh Hazlewood, Suyash Sharma run riot in Qualifier 1 as RCB down PBKS; punch ticket in fourth final</a>&nbsp;And that speculation will only intensify following Bethell's expertly-paced innings of 82 from 53 balls that propelled England to a huge total of 400-8 on his Warwickshire home ground.&nbsp;Faced with trying to become only the second team in the 4,880-match history of men's ODI cricket to score over 400 to win, following South Africa's 438-9 against Australia at Johannesburg in 2006, the West Indies collapsed to 162 all out.&nbsp;&nbsp;Brook, speaking after launching his reign as England's permanent white-ball captain with a dominant 238-run win, said of left-hander Bethell: "He batted beautifully there.&nbsp;‘Confident lad’"When one of us gets going, most of the time it's hard to stop us and he showed that. He couldn't go on and get three figures but it was a match-winning innings and he's going to be some player.&nbsp;"He's a confident lad, I don't think he needs too much more bigging up, he knows he's a good player and we all know he's an exceptional player. He's going to have a very long England career if he keeps on batting the way he does. He brings so much to a side (because) he can bowl and field as well."&nbsp;Victory ended England's seven-match losing streak in ODI cricket and put them 1-0 up in this three-game series against the West Indies.&nbsp;Barbados-born Bethell's Indian Premier League commitments meant he missed last week's Test win over Zimbabwe, with England not having to decide whether to retain him at number three after he starred in New Zealand in December or restore vice-captain Ollie Pope to that position.&nbsp;Pope made a hundred at Trent Bridge but Test captain Ben Stokes revived the debate around Bethell by indicating the spin-bowling all-rounder could be back in the side to face India.&nbsp;&nbsp;Stokes later insisted he was only talking about Bethell returning to the&nbsp; squad for the first of five Tests against India, starting on June 20 at Headingley.&nbsp;But a relaxed Bethell told the BBC: "Not a lot has been said to me, to be honest. At the end of the day in Test cricket, those boys have their spots and whatever happens, happens. I'll just be happy with whatever."&nbsp;Bethell rounded off England's innings on Thursday following earlier fifties from Ben Duckett (60), Joe Root (57) and Brook (58), while every batsman in the hosts' top seven passed 35.&nbsp;"It was a pretty exceptional start from the boys," said Brook. Hopefully we can top that. The tempo we batted with throughout the innings was pretty much spot on."&nbsp;Saqib Mahmood then rocked the West Indies with three wickets and fellow paceman Jamie Overton did likewise despite dislocating his finger in his first over.&nbsp;West Indies coach Darren Sammy, meanwhile, demanded an improved showing from the tourists in the second ODI in Cardiff on Sunday.&nbsp;"We were really outplayed -- that was just not good enough," insisted the former West Indies captain.&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.

New ODI captain Harry Brook hails exceptional Bethell as England rout West Indies

Harry Brook predicted Jacob Bethell "will be some player" after the 21-year-old rising star impressed in England's thumping victory over the West Indies in the first one-day international at Edgbaston on Thursday. There has long been talk over whether Bethell, recently returned from IPL duty, will go straight back into the Test side for the upcoming five-match series with India. Also read | IPL 2025: Josh Hazlewood, Suyash Sharma run riot in Qualifier 1 as RCB down PBKS; punch ticket in fourth final And that speculation will only intensify following Bethell's expertly-paced innings of 82 from 53 balls that propelled England to a huge total of 400-8 on his Warwickshire home ground. Faced with trying to become only the second team in the 4,880-match history of men's ODI cricket to score over 400 to win, following South Africa's 438-9 against Australia at Johannesburg in 2006, the West Indies collapsed to 162 all out. Brook, speaking after launching his reign as England's permanent white-ball captain with a dominant 238-run win, said of left-hander Bethell: "He batted beautifully there. ‘Confident lad’ "When one of us gets going, most of the time it's hard to stop us and he showed that. He couldn't go on and get three figures but it was a match-winning innings and he's going to be some player. "He's a confident lad, I don't think he needs too much more bigging up, he knows he's a good player and we all know he's an exceptional player. He's going to have a very long England career if he keeps on batting the way he does. He brings so much to a side (because) he can bowl and field as well." Victory ended England's seven-match losing streak in ODI cricket and put them 1-0 up in this three-game series against the West Indies. Barbados-born Bethell's Indian Premier League commitments meant he missed last week's Test win over Zimbabwe, with England not having to decide whether to retain him at number three after he starred in New Zealand in December or restore vice-captain Ollie Pope to that position. Pope made a hundred at Trent Bridge but Test captain Ben Stokes revived the debate around Bethell by indicating the spin-bowling all-rounder could be back in the side to face India. Stokes later insisted he was only talking about Bethell returning to the squad for the first of five Tests against India, starting on June 20 at Headingley. But a relaxed Bethell told the BBC: "Not a lot has been said to me, to be honest. At the end of the day in Test cricket, those boys have their spots and whatever happens, happens. I'll just be happy with whatever." Bethell rounded off England's innings on Thursday following earlier fifties from Ben Duckett (60), Joe Root (57) and Brook (58), while every batsman in the hosts' top seven passed 35. "It was a pretty exceptional start from the boys," said Brook. Hopefully we can top that. The tempo we batted with throughout the innings was pretty much spot on." Saqib Mahmood then rocked the West Indies with three wickets and fellow paceman Jamie Overton did likewise despite dislocating his finger in his first over. West Indies coach Darren Sammy, meanwhile, demanded an improved showing from the tourists in the second ODI in Cardiff on Sunday. "We were really outplayed -- that was just not good enough," insisted the former West Indies captain. 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.

Brook, speaking after launching his reign as England's permanent white-ball captain with a dominant 238-run win, said of left-hander Bethell: "He batted beautifully there.

New ODI captain Harry Brook hails 'exceptional' Bethell as England rout West Indies

Second seed Coco Gauff said on Thursday that women's matches are "worthy" of being played in the prime-time night session at Roland Garros. The debate over the lack of women's ties played in the late slot on Court Philippe Chatrier has rumbled on since the session was first added to the French Open schedule in 2021.&nbsp;Also read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/tennis-french-open-2025-novak-djokovic-rolls-past-moutet-to-reach-roland-garros-last-32-1748576238416">French Open 2025: Novak Djokovic rolls past Moutet to reach Roland Garros last 32</a>&nbsp;Three-time Grand Slam finalist Ons Jabeur hit out at tournament organisers earlier this week, saying she doesn't "think they have daughters".&nbsp;Gauff said she would not want an extra match added to the evening session, which currently features just one, but would like to see women given a chance.&nbsp;"I do think that women's matches are worthy of a night spot," she told reporters after battling past Czech teenager Tereza Valentova 6-2, 6-4 in the second round.&nbsp;"If there is going to be two spots, I don't think that a woman should play after the men at 8:15 pm. I just think that's unfair. You could go on at 11:00 pm and that's if the match really goes fast...&nbsp;"If they are going to put one match at 8:15 pm, for sure there could be an opportunity to put a woman there."&nbsp;The Australian and US Opens also have night sessions but each has two matches on the order of play.&nbsp;There has not been a women's night match at Roland Garros since Aryna Sabalenka beat Sloane Stephens in the 2023 last 16, while there have only been four in total.&nbsp;"I definitely do agree with Ons," added Gauff, a former French Open finalist and US Open champion.&nbsp;"I feel like we produce some high-quality tennis and we have some great stars on the women's side who fans I'm sure would love to see.&nbsp;"From my experience playing at US Open, night match at 7:00 p.m. with Novak following me, and he's the greatest player of all time, people were almost just as excited to see me play as him...&nbsp;"I definitely think there is opportunity to improve that in the future with this tournament."&nbsp;The 21-year-old battled struggles on her serve to get the better of Valentova.&nbsp;Gauff, who has made at least the quarter-finals in each of the past four years, was the beneficiary of 33 unforced errors from her 18-year-old opponent.&nbsp;She will take on another Czech in world number 47 Marie Bouzkova in the last 32.&nbsp;Valentova won both the 2024 French Open girls' singles and doubles tournaments.&nbsp;Gauff is bidding for a first title since last year's WTA Finals, after losing the Madrid and Rome finals to Sabalenka and Jasmine Paolini respectively.&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.

Women’s matches are ‘worthy’ of prime-time night session at Roland Garros: Gauff

Second seed Coco Gauff said on Thursday that women's matches are "worthy" of being played in the prime-time night session at Roland Garros. The debate over the lack of women's ties played in the late slot on Court Philippe Chatrier has rumbled on since the session was first added to the French Open schedule in 2021. Also read | French Open 2025: Novak Djokovic rolls past Moutet to reach Roland Garros last 32 Three-time Grand Slam finalist Ons Jabeur hit out at tournament organisers earlier this week, saying she doesn't "think they have daughters". Gauff said she would not want an extra match added to the evening session, which currently features just one, but would like to see women given a chance. "I do think that women's matches are worthy of a night spot," she told reporters after battling past Czech teenager Tereza Valentova 6-2, 6-4 in the second round. "If there is going to be two spots, I don't think that a woman should play after the men at 8:15 pm. I just think that's unfair. You could go on at 11:00 pm and that's if the match really goes fast... "If they are going to put one match at 8:15 pm, for sure there could be an opportunity to put a woman there." The Australian and US Opens also have night sessions but each has two matches on the order of play. There has not been a women's night match at Roland Garros since Aryna Sabalenka beat Sloane Stephens in the 2023 last 16, while there have only been four in total. "I definitely do agree with Ons," added Gauff, a former French Open finalist and US Open champion. "I feel like we produce some high-quality tennis and we have some great stars on the women's side who fans I'm sure would love to see. "From my experience playing at US Open, night match at 7:00 p.m. with Novak following me, and he's the greatest player of all time, people were almost just as excited to see me play as him... "I definitely think there is opportunity to improve that in the future with this tournament." The 21-year-old battled struggles on her serve to get the better of Valentova. Gauff, who has made at least the quarter-finals in each of the past four years, was the beneficiary of 33 unforced errors from her 18-year-old opponent. She will take on another Czech in world number 47 Marie Bouzkova in the last 32. Valentova won both the 2024 French Open girls' singles and doubles tournaments. Gauff is bidding for a first title since last year's WTA Finals, after losing the Madrid and Rome finals to Sabalenka and Jasmine Paolini respectively. 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.

Gauff said she would not want an extra match added to the evening session, which currently features just one, but would like to see women given a chance.

Novak Djokovic extended his perfect record against French players at Roland Garros with a 6-3, 6-2, 7-6 (7/1) win over Corentin Moutet to reach the third round on Thursday. It was largely plain sailing for the 38-year-old Djokovic although he did have to save a set point to force a tie-break in the third set.&nbsp;Also read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/french-open-2025-bublik-tweener-against-de-mianur-to-win-fourth-set-highlights-his-come-from-behind-win-in-five-set-thriller-watch-1748531902091">French Open 2025 | Bublik's tweener against de Mianur to win fourth set highlights his come-from-behind win in five-set thriller - WATCH</a>&nbsp;That came after the 24-time Grand Slam champion took a medical timeout earlier in the set to receive treatment for a blister on his left foot.&nbsp;"Things got a little bit complicated with the blister. That was bothering me for a bit," said Djokovic. "But I don't think it's going to be an issue for me to recover."&nbsp;Just when Moutet threatened to prolong the match, Djokovic clicked back into gear -- a day after a nighttime cycle around the Arc de Triomphe -- to improve to 12-0 against Frenchmen at Roland Garros.&nbsp;"Obviously atmosphere was electric, especially in that third set. He was close to win it, so the crowd got involved. And it was, yeah, not much fun for me," said Djokovic.&nbsp;He is through to the last 32 in Paris for the 20th time, more than even 14-time champion Rafael Nadal managed. But Djokovic said he would not repeat his jaunt around the notoriously busy Place Charles de Gaulle, where 12 avenues converge.&nbsp;"At one point we had cars all over the place. It was quite an adrenaline experience, but I don't think I will repeat that," he said. "Probably in all other streets, it's much more safe. But, yeah, we were crazy enough to get into that roundabout. It was fun but at one point but also a bit dangerous."&nbsp;Djokovic will play 23-year-old Austrian qualifier Filip Misolic for a spot in the last 16. Misolic withstood a comeback from Canadian 27th seed Denis Shapovalov to prevail 7-6 (7/5), 7-6 (8/6), 4-6, 4-6, 6-3.&nbsp;The three-time French Open champion issued a playful appeal to tournament organisers not to schedule his next match on Saturday night, to avoid a clash with the Champions League final.&nbsp;Paris Saint-Germain will be bidding for a first European crown against Inter Milan. Kick-off in Munich is roughly 30 minutes after the evening session begins at Roland Garros.&nbsp;"It's going to be PSG that I will support. I will definitely watch it if I'm not playing night session," said Djokovic. "Yeah, that will be nice. FYI, Roland Garros schedule..."&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.

French Open 2025: Novak Djokovic rolls past Moutet to reach Roland Garros last 32

Novak Djokovic extended his perfect record against French players at Roland Garros with a 6-3, 6-2, 7-6 (7/1) win over Corentin Moutet to reach the third round on Thursday. It was largely plain sailing for the 38-year-old Djokovic although he did have to save a set point to force a tie-break in the third set. Also read | French Open 2025 | Bublik's tweener against de Mianur to win fourth set highlights his come-from-behind win in five-set thriller - WATCH That came after the 24-time Grand Slam champion took a medical timeout earlier in the set to receive treatment for a blister on his left foot. "Things got a little bit complicated with the blister. That was bothering me for a bit," said Djokovic. "But I don't think it's going to be an issue for me to recover." Just when Moutet threatened to prolong the match, Djokovic clicked back into gear -- a day after a nighttime cycle around the Arc de Triomphe -- to improve to 12-0 against Frenchmen at Roland Garros. "Obviously atmosphere was electric, especially in that third set. He was close to win it, so the crowd got involved. And it was, yeah, not much fun for me," said Djokovic. He is through to the last 32 in Paris for the 20th time, more than even 14-time champion Rafael Nadal managed. But Djokovic said he would not repeat his jaunt around the notoriously busy Place Charles de Gaulle, where 12 avenues converge. "At one point we had cars all over the place. It was quite an adrenaline experience, but I don't think I will repeat that," he said. "Probably in all other streets, it's much more safe. But, yeah, we were crazy enough to get into that roundabout. It was fun but at one point but also a bit dangerous." Djokovic will play 23-year-old Austrian qualifier Filip Misolic for a spot in the last 16. Misolic withstood a comeback from Canadian 27th seed Denis Shapovalov to prevail 7-6 (7/5), 7-6 (8/6), 4-6, 4-6, 6-3. The three-time French Open champion issued a playful appeal to tournament organisers not to schedule his next match on Saturday night, to avoid a clash with the Champions League final. Paris Saint-Germain will be bidding for a first European crown against Inter Milan. Kick-off in Munich is roughly 30 minutes after the evening session begins at Roland Garros. "It's going to be PSG that I will support. I will definitely watch it if I'm not playing night session," said Djokovic. "Yeah, that will be nice. FYI, Roland Garros schedule..." 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.

Djokovic is through to the last 32 in Paris for the 20th time, more than even 14-time champion Rafael Nadal managed.

Manchester United defender Harry Maguire believes he can bounce back after the club’s dismissal 2024-25 season. Speaking exclusively to WION, Maguire currently on an India tour spoke on his form and why he has the ability to bounce back. The Red Devils finished 15th in the Premier League and lost the Europa League final as they endured their toughest campaign.

<blockquote class="twitter-tweet" data-media-max-width="560">Manchester United&#39;s Harry Maguire tells WION Sports Correspondent <a href="https://twitter.com/too_lazyy?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@too_lazyy</a> that the team will improve under Ruben Amorim next season Maguire was in Mumbai for an event organised by Apollo tyres <a href="https://t.co/cdyNDRxFWB">pic.twitter.com/cdyNDRxFWB</a>&mdash; WION (@WIONews) <a href="https://twitter.com/WIONews/status/1928138054814028190?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">May 29, 2025</a></blockquote> <script async src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script>

<h2>Maguire backs himself</h2>&nbsp;“I have great belief in my ability; I believe I am a top defender. I am 32 years old and have played a lot of games in the Premier League and for the country. I have played in some big games and tournaments. So I think it is the belief that I have in myself. I also thank the Manchester United fans who believed in me and I hope the club bounces back from the disappointment,” Maguire said while speaking to WION’s Nikhil Mathur.&nbsp;Man Utd’s 2024–25 season was one of the most challenging in the club's recent history, marked by managerial upheaval, underwhelming performances, and significant changes both on and off the pitch.&nbsp;The Red Devils parted company with Erik ten Hag midway after they had a dismissal start. Ruben Amorim was given the nod to take over as the club’s new boss, but there was no change in results. The team was eliminated by Fulham in the FA Cup in the fifth round on penalties. They were eliminated in the quarterfinal of the EFL Cup after a classic 4-3 defeat against Tottenham Hotspur.&nbsp;The eyes are now on the 2025–26 season which will be pivotal for United as they aim to rebuild and return to European competitions. With no European fixtures, the focus will be on domestic success and integrating new signings under Amorim's leadership. This will be the first time since the 2014-15 season that there will be no European football at Old Trafford.

Speaking exclusively to WION, Harry Maguire currently on an India tour spoke on his form and why he has the ability to bounce back. 

Manchester United defender Harry Maguire believes he can bounce back after the club’s dismissal 2024-25 season. Speaking exclusively to WION, Maguire currently on an India tour spoke on his form and why he has the ability to bounce back. The Red Devils finished 15th in the Premier League and lost the Europa League final as they endured their toughest campaign.

Speaking exclusively to WION, Harry Maguire currently on an India tour spoke on his form and why he has the ability to bounce back.&nbsp;

Exclusive: Harry Maguire backs himself despite dismal season with Man Utd, says 'I am a top defender'

Royal Challengers Bengaluru (RCB) were in the seventh heaven on Thursday (May 29) as they beat Punjab Kings (PBKS) by eight wickets in the Indian Premier League (IPL 2025). The win was manufactured by the brilliance of Suyash Sharma and Josh Hazlewood as their superb spell led the foundation for the win. However, it was Suyash who made the headlines in his opening over as he scalped two wickets.

<blockquote class="twitter-tweet" data-media-max-width="560">SUYASH SHARMA - THE GAME CHANGER FOR RCB. 🥶<a href="https://t.co/R19OVQfqTw">pic.twitter.com/R19OVQfqTw</a>&mdash; Mufaddal Vohra (@mufaddal_vohra) <a href="https://twitter.com/mufaddal_vohra/status/1928107478434152841?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">May 29, 2025</a></blockquote> <script async src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script>

<h2>Suyash leads from the front</h2>&nbsp;In the 11th over of the PBKS innings, Suyash came out to bowl as he scalped the wickets of Marcus Stoinis and Shashank Singh. While the later decision was challenged, Suyash did manage to break the backbone of the Punjab middle order. He scalped one more wicket of Musheer Khan who came as an Impact Player for PBKS. He was dismissed for a duck narrowing, PBKS to 78/8 and were later dismissed for 101.&nbsp;<h2>RCB punch ticket for final</h2>&nbsp;Tasked with chasing 102 runs to win, RCB made light work of Punjab bowlers as they chased down the total in 10 overs. Phil Salt was in top form as he scored an unbeaten 56 off 27 to take his side into the final of the IPL 2025. He was supported by Virat Kohli (12), Mayak Agarwal (19) and skipper Rajat Patidar (unbeaten 15).&nbsp;<h2>RCB dream of maiden IPL title</h2>&nbsp;This will be RCB’s fourth IPL final, having lost on all three previous occasions. They lost the 2009 final to Deccan Chargers, 2011 to Chennai Super Kings and the 2016 summit clash to SunRisers Hyderabad. RCB also lost two finals in the now-defunct Champions League. RCB’s only success has come in the Women’s Premier League when Smriti Mandhana’s side won the title in 2024.&nbsp;RCB will face the winner of Qualifier 2 on Tuesday (June 3) at the iconic Narendra Modi Stadium in Ahmedabad.

Royal Challengers Bengaluru (RCB) were in the seventh heaven on Thursday (May 29) as they beat Punjab Kings (PBKS) by eight wickets in the Indian Premier League (IPL 2025).

Royal Challengers Bengaluru (RCB) were in the seventh heaven on Thursday (May 29) as they beat Punjab Kings (PBKS) by eight wickets in the Indian Premier League (IPL 2025). The win was manufactured by the brilliance of Suyash Sharma and Josh Hazlewood as their superb spell led the foundation for the win. However, it was Suyash who made the headlines in his opening over as he scalped two wickets.

Royal Challengers Bengaluru (RCB) were in the seventh heaven on Thursday (May 29) as they beat Punjab Kings (PBKS) by eight wickets in the Indian Premier League (IPL 2025).

Watch: Suyash Sharma wreaks havoc with dream spell as RCB narrow PBKS in Qualifier 1 of IPL 2025 Playoffs

Royal Challengers Bengaluru (RCB) will have a date with destiny as they thrashed Punjab Kings (PBKS) in Qualifier 1 of the ongoing Indian Premier League (IPL 2025) Playoffs. Playing at the New Chandigarh Stadium in Mullanpur, RCB beat PBKS by eight wickets and will now await the winner of Qualifier 2. Josh Hazlewood and Suyash Sharma were the stars of the show for RCB as they both scalped three wickets each during the contest on Thursday (May 29).<h2>RCB punch ticket for final</h2>Tasked with chasing 102 runs to win, RCB made light work of Punjab bowlers as they chased down the total in 10 overs. Phil Salt was in top form as he scored an unbeaten 56 off 27 to take his side into the final of the IPL 2025. He was supported by Virat Kohli (12), Mayak Agarwal (19) and skipper Rajat Patidar (unbeaten 15).&nbsp;Kyle Jamieson and Musheer Khan got one wicket each, but with no big total on the board, RCB clinched the one-sided contest easily.&nbsp;<h2>Suyash, Hazlewood script PBKS downfall</h2>Batting first, Punjab Kings never really got going as they were bundled out for 101 in 14.1 overs. Only three batters got into double figures – Marcus Stoinis (26), Prabhsimran Singh (18) and Azmatullah Omarzai (18). Suyash Sharma and Josh Hazlewood were in the form of their life as they ended with figures of 17/3 and 21/3 respectively.&nbsp;Punjab now play in Qualifier 2 on Sunday (June 1) as they will meet the winner of the Eliminator clash between Mumbai Indians and Gujarat Titans at the Narendra Modi Stadium. The winner of that contest will play RCB in the final.&nbsp;<h2>RCB dream of maiden IPL title</h2>&nbsp;This will be RCB’s fourth IPL final, having lost on all three previous occasions. They lost the 2009 final to Deccan Chargers, 2011 to Chennai Super Kings and the 2016 summit clash to SunRisers Hyderabad. RCB also lost two finals in the now-defunct Champions League. RCB’s only success has come in the Women’s Premier League when Smriti Mandhana’s side won the title in 2024.&nbsp;RCB will face the winner of Qualifier 2 on Tuesday (June 3) at the iconic Narendra Modi Stadium in Ahmedabad.

Royal Challengers Bengaluru (RCB) will have a date with destiny as they thrashed Punjab Kings (PBKS) in Qualifier 1 of the ongoing Indian Premier League (IPL 2025) Playoffs.

Royal Challengers Bengaluru (RCB) will have a date with destiny as they thrashed Punjab Kings (PBKS) in Qualifier 1 of the ongoing Indian Premier League (IPL 2025) Playoffs. Playing at the New Chandigarh Stadium in Mullanpur, RCB beat PBKS by eight wickets and will now await the winner of Qualifier 2. Josh Hazlewood and Suyash Sharma were the stars of the show for RCB as they both scalped three wickets each during the contest on Thursday (May 29). RCB punch ticket for final Tasked with chasing 102 runs to win, RCB made light work of Punjab bowlers as they chased down the total in 10 overs. Phil Salt was in top form as he scored an unbeaten 56 off 27 to take his side into the final of the IPL 2025. He was supported by Virat Kohli (12), Mayak Agarwal (19) and skipper Rajat Patidar (unbeaten 15). Kyle Jamieson and Musheer Khan got one wicket each, but with no big total on the board, RCB clinched the one-sided contest easily. Suyash, Hazlewood script PBKS downfall Batting first, Punjab Kings never really got going as they were bundled out for 101 in 14.1 overs. Only three batters got into double figures – Marcus Stoinis (26), Prabhsimran Singh (18) and Azmatullah Omarzai (18). Suyash Sharma and Josh Hazlewood were in the form of their life as they ended with figures of 17/3 and 21/3 respectively. Punjab now play in Qualifier 2 on Sunday (June 1) as they will meet the winner of the Eliminator clash between Mumbai Indians and Gujarat Titans at the Narendra Modi Stadium. The winner of that contest will play RCB in the final. RCB dream of maiden IPL title This will be RCB’s fourth IPL final, having lost on all three previous occasions. They lost the 2009 final to Deccan Chargers, 2011 to Chennai Super Kings and the 2016 summit clash to SunRisers Hyderabad. RCB also lost two finals in the now-defunct Champions League. RCB’s only success has come in the Women’s Premier League when Smriti Mandhana’s side won the title in 2024. RCB will face the winner of Qualifier 2 on Tuesday (June 3) at the iconic Narendra Modi Stadium in Ahmedabad.

Royal Challengers Bengaluru (RCB) will have a date with destiny as they thrashed Punjab Kings (PBKS) in Qualifier 1 of the ongoing Indian Premier League (IPL 2025) Playoffs.

IPL 2025: Josh Hazlewood, Suyash Sharma run riot in Qualifier 1 as RCB down PBKS; punch ticket in fourth final

Punjab Kings crumbled for 101 in Qualifier 1 against <a href="https://www.wionews.com/tags/royal-challengers-bengaluru">Royal Challengers Bengaluru</a> in New Chandigarh stadium on Thursday (May 29). RCB bowlers tore apart Punjab's batting lineup with all-round attack of swing and spin bowling.&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/tags/yash-dayal">Yash Dayal</a> drew the first blood for RCB by dismissing Punjab's opening batter Priyansh Arya for a mere seven runs. In the very next over Bhuvneshwar Kumar removed second opener Prabhsimran Singh.&nbsp;&nbsp;Things went worse for Punjab as Josh Hazlewood dealt a double blow by dismissing skipper <a href="https://www.wionews.com/tags/shreyas-iyer">Shreyas Iyer</a> and Josh Inglis. Eventually, Punjab was reduced to 48/4 after the first six overs of powerplay.&nbsp;Also Read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/cricket-ipl-2025-shane-watson-makes-bold-prediction-ahead-of-playoffs-says-rcb-will-win-the-tournament-1748516366730">IPL 2025: Shane Watson makes bold prediction ahead of Playoffs, says THIS team will win the tournament</a>&nbsp;Yash Dayal came back to pick up another wicket, sending back Nehal Wadhera early in the seventh over. Then came the magic of leggie Suyash Sharma. In his very first over, he dismissed Shashank Singh with a sharp googly and trapped Musheer Khan leg before the wicket.&nbsp;Marcus Stoinis looked like he could fight back for his team with some aggressive hitting, but Suyash struck again, dismissing the Australian all-rounder. At the end of 11 overs, PBKS were tottering at 78/8.&nbsp;Azmatullah Omarzai tried to resist, hitting two sixes off Suyash. But wickets kept falling at regular intervals as Romario Shepherd bowled Harpreet Brar in the 14th over. Hazlewood wrapped things up by dismissing Azmatullah, ending Punjab’s innings for just 101. This is Punjab's lowest ever score in IPL playoffs.&nbsp;Stoinis was the top scorer for PBKS with 26 runs. Eight Punjab batters couldn’t even reach a double-digit score.&nbsp;For RCB, Suyash Sharma and Josh Hazlewood were the stars with the ball, picking up three wickets each. Yash Dayal took two, while Bhuvneshwar Kumar and Romario Shepherd grabbed one each.&nbsp;RCB will now carry great momentum into the second innings after a dominating performance. &nbsp;

PBKS have recorded their lowest ever score in IPL playoffs. 

Punjab Kings crumbled for 101 in Qualifier 1 against Royal Challengers Bengaluru in New Chandigarh stadium on Thursday (May 29). RCB bowlers tore apart Punjab's batting lineup with all-round attack of swing and spin bowling. Yash Dayal drew the first blood for RCB by dismissing Punjab's opening batter Priyansh Arya for a mere seven runs. In the very next over Bhuvneshwar Kumar removed second opener Prabhsimran Singh. Things went worse for Punjab as Josh Hazlewood dealt a double blow by dismissing skipper Shreyas Iyer and Josh Inglis. Eventually, Punjab was reduced to 48/4 after the first six overs of powerplay. Also Read | IPL 2025: Shane Watson makes bold prediction ahead of Playoffs, says THIS team will win the tournament Yash Dayal came back to pick up another wicket, sending back Nehal Wadhera early in the seventh over. Then came the magic of leggie Suyash Sharma. In his very first over, he dismissed Shashank Singh with a sharp googly and trapped Musheer Khan leg before the wicket. Marcus Stoinis looked like he could fight back for his team with some aggressive hitting, but Suyash struck again, dismissing the Australian all-rounder. At the end of 11 overs, PBKS were tottering at 78/8. Azmatullah Omarzai tried to resist, hitting two sixes off Suyash. But wickets kept falling at regular intervals as Romario Shepherd bowled Harpreet Brar in the 14th over. Hazlewood wrapped things up by dismissing Azmatullah, ending Punjab’s innings for just 101. This is Punjab's lowest ever score in IPL playoffs. Stoinis was the top scorer for PBKS with 26 runs. Eight Punjab batters couldn’t even reach a double-digit score. For RCB, Suyash Sharma and Josh Hazlewood were the stars with the ball, picking up three wickets each. Yash Dayal took two, while Bhuvneshwar Kumar and Romario Shepherd grabbed one each. RCB will now carry great momentum into the second innings after a dominating performance.

Stoinis was the top scorer for PBKS with 26 runs. Eight Punjab batters couldn’t even reach a double-digit score

IPL 2025, RCB vs PBKS: Punjab crumbles for 101 against red-hot Bengaluru in Qualifier 1

Alexander Bublik caused a major upset in French Open second round on Thursday (May 29) as he sent ninth seed Alex de Minaur packing in a five-set thriller. Bublik, who had lost the first two sets, came from behind in epic fashion to win the next three. He eventually won the match 6-2, 6-2. 4-6, 3-6, 2-6.The moment of the match though came on the set point of fourth set when Bublik casually played a tweener to find de Minaur unprepared for the same. The Aussie did well to pick the shot but it was Bublik's day and he won the match-equaling point on the next shot. Have a look at the video below:

<blockquote class="twitter-tweet" data-media-max-width="560">Casual Bublik tweener followed by a perfect passing shot, on set point, it just had to be today&#39;s shot of the day 🤯<a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/RolandGarros?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#RolandGarros</a> <a href="https://t.co/2YBHqHcp7L">pic.twitter.com/2YBHqHcp7L</a>&mdash; Roland-Garros (@rolandgarros) <a href="https://twitter.com/rolandgarros/status/1928070705125503076?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">May 29, 2025</a></blockquote> <script async src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script>

With the loss, De Minaur's hope of reaching the fourth successive grand slam quarter final also came to an end.Home hope Arthur Fils narrowly avoided suffering a similar fate though.The 14th seed fought back from a break down in the deciding set to grab a dramatic 7-6 (7/3), 7-6 (7/4), 2-6, 0-6, 6-4 victory over Spaniard Juame Munar on a raucous Court Suzanne Lenglen.<h2>Sinner powers through third round</h2>Jannik Sinner ended the retiring Richard Gasquet's career with a one-sided victory in the French Open second round on May 29.He was in fine form against Gasquet, saving three break points to serve out the first set before dominating the rest of the match on Court Philippe Chatrier."I'm very happy to be in the third round," Sinner told the crowd after setting up a third-round meeting with Czech Jiri Lehecka."Thank you for being very fair with me today, I know what was at stake... It's your (Gasquet's) moment. Congrats on an amazing career."

Bublik, who had lost the first two sets, came from behind in epic fashion to win the next three. He eventually won the match 6-2, 6-2. 4-6, 3-6, 2-6.

Alexander Bublik caused a major upset in French Open second round on Thursday (May 29) as he sent ninth seed Alex de Minaur packing in a five-set thriller. Bublik, who had lost the first two sets, came from behind in epic fashion to win the next three. He eventually won the match 6-2, 6-2. 4-6, 3-6, 2-6. The moment of the match though came on the set point of fourth set when Bublik casually played a tweener to find de Minaur unprepared for the same. The Aussie did well to pick the shot but it was Bublik's day and he won the match-equaling point on the next shot. Have a look at the video below:

Bublik, who had lost the first two sets, came from behind in epic fashion to win the next three. He eventually won the match 6-2, 6-2. 4-6, 3-6, 2-6.

French Open 2025 | Bublik's tweener against de Mianur to win fourth set highlights his come-from-behind win in five-set thriller - WATCH

Alexander Bublik pulled off a big upset by defeating Australia’s Alex de Minaur in the second round of the <a href="https://www.wionews.com/tags/french-open">French Open</a> on Thursday (May 29). After being down in the first two sets, the Kazak player made a strong comeback to win the match by 2-6, 2-6, 6-4, 6-3, 6-2.&nbsp;Early on, De Minaur, the No.9 seed, looked in complete control. He played aggressive tennis, moved well, and dominated the first two sets. At one stage, it looked like the Aussie was heading for a quick win.&nbsp;But, Bublik showed a fighting spirit as during the third set, he started serving better and cut down his previous errors. His improved play helped him take the third set 6-4 which resulted in the drift of momentum.&nbsp;Also Read |<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/pbks-vs-rcb-qualifier-1-today-kohlis-bumper-season-with-bat-ignites-ipl-2016-memories-for-bengaluru-1748523119638"> </a><a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/tennis-french-open-jannik-sinner-makes-light-work-of-richard-gasquet-to-reach-third-round-zverev-sees-off-de-jong-1748528057896">Jannik Sinner makes light work of Richard Gasquet to reach third round; Zverev sees off De Jong</a>

<blockquote class="twitter-tweet">What an upset 🤯<a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/RolandGarros?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#RolandGarros</a> <a href="https://t.co/MQygqYKgWq">pic.twitter.com/MQygqYKgWq</a>&mdash; Roland-Garros (@rolandgarros) <a href="https://twitter.com/rolandgarros/status/1928075383401812220?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">May 29, 2025</a></blockquote> <script async src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script>

The fourth set followed a similar pattern. Bublik broke De Minaur’s serve to take 3-1 lead. The Aussie tried to fight back but Bublik stayed focused and closed out the set 6-3.&nbsp;In the final set, Bublik was full of confidence. He broke De Minaur twice and finished the match 6-2, sealing one of the biggest wins of his <a href="https://www.wionews.com/tags/grand-slam">Grand Slam</a> career.&nbsp;This is the third time De Minaur has lost a match after being two sets up. It last happened at the 2018 US Open and the 2022 Wimbledon. The loss also ended his run of six straight Grand Slams where he reached at least the fourth round. It’s his earliest exit since Wimbledon 2023.&nbsp;With this win, Bublik moves into the third round where he will face world No.200 Henrik Rocha on Friday (30 May), who also came back after being two sets down in his previous outing.

After being down the first two sets, the Kazakh player made a strong comeback to win the match by 2-6, 2-6, 6-4, 6-3, 6-2.

Alexander Bublik pulled off a big upset by defeating Australia’s Alex de Minaur in the second round of the French Open on Thursday (May 29). After being down in the first two sets, the Kazak player made a strong comeback to win the match by 2-6, 2-6, 6-4, 6-3, 6-2. Early on, De Minaur, the No.9 seed, looked in complete control. He played aggressive tennis, moved well, and dominated the first two sets. At one stage, it looked like the Aussie was heading for a quick win. But, Bublik showed a fighting spirit as during the third set, he started serving better and cut down his previous errors. His improved play helped him take the third set 6-4 which resulted in the drift of momentum. Also Read | Jannik Sinner makes light work of Richard Gasquet to reach third round; Zverev sees off De Jong

After being down the first two sets, the Kazakh player made a strong comeback to win the match by 2-6, 2-6, 6-4, 6-3, 6-2.

French Open 2025 | In a major upset, world no. 62 Bublik defeats no.9 seed De Minaur in five-set thriller

Australian Open champion Jannik Sinner made light work of home favourite Richard Gasquet as he eased into the third round of the ongoing French Open 2025 on Thursday (May 29). In a contest between rising star and veteran Gasquet, it was the Italian who eased with straight sets win of 6-3, 6-0, 6-4. On the other hand, 2024 runner-up Alexander Zverev also eased into the third round despite dropping the opening set as he beat Dutchman Jesper de Jong 3-6, 6-1, 6-2, 6-3.<h2>Sinner makes light work of Gasquet</h2>Having lost the Italian Open final after his return from a doping suspension, Sinner looked sharp against Gasquet. He dropped only seven games throughout the match, highlighting his dominance over the match. Sinner had a first serve per cent of 75, being ruthless in his approach with the ball. Interestingly, he was not broken even once during the entire match, while Gasquet was broken on five occasions.&nbsp;The number one seed will next face Jiri Lehecka for a place in the fourth round of the French Open. The Czech star got the better of 26th seed Alejandro Davidovich Fokina earlier in the day.&nbsp;Chasing his fourth Grand Slam title, Sinner is yet to win the French Open having lost in the semis in 2024. However, he will be determined to add one more Grand Slam title to his trophy cabinet having won the Australian Open on two occasions and the US Open once.<h2>Zverev bounces back for R3 berth</h2>Zverev bounced back from losing the first set to wrap up an ultimately comfortable victory over Dutchman Jesper de Jong in the French Open second round on Thursday. The German, who lost last year's final to Carlos Alcaraz, found his form in the second set en route to a 3-6, 6-1, 6-2, 6-3 win on Court Simonne Mathieu.&nbsp;Zverev will next face the winner of an all-Italian clash between Flavio Cobolli and Matteo Arnaldi on Saturday for a last-16 berth.

Australian Open champion Jannik Sinner made light work of home favourite Richard Gasquet as he eased into the third round of the ongoing French Open 2025 on Thursday (May 29). 

Australian Open champion Jannik Sinner made light work of home favourite Richard Gasquet as he eased into the third round of the ongoing French Open 2025 on Thursday (May 29). In a contest between rising star and veteran Gasquet, it was the Italian who eased with straight sets win of 6-3, 6-0, 6-4. On the other hand, 2024 runner-up Alexander Zverev also eased into the third round despite dropping the opening set as he beat Dutchman Jesper de Jong 3-6, 6-1, 6-2, 6-3. Sinner makes light work of Gasquet Having lost the Italian Open final after his return from a doping suspension, Sinner looked sharp against Gasquet. He dropped only seven games throughout the match, highlighting his dominance over the match. Sinner had a first serve per cent of 75, being ruthless in his approach with the ball. Interestingly, he was not broken even once during the entire match, while Gasquet was broken on five occasions. The number one seed will next face Jiri Lehecka for a place in the fourth round of the French Open. The Czech star got the better of 26th seed Alejandro Davidovich Fokina earlier in the day. Chasing his fourth Grand Slam title, Sinner is yet to win the French Open having lost in the semis in 2024. However, he will be determined to add one more Grand Slam title to his trophy cabinet having won the Australian Open on two occasions and the US Open once. Zverev bounces back for R3 berth Zverev bounced back from losing the first set to wrap up an ultimately comfortable victory over Dutchman Jesper de Jong in the French Open second round on Thursday. The German, who lost last year's final to Carlos Alcaraz, found his form in the second set en route to a 3-6, 6-1, 6-2, 6-3 win on Court Simonne Mathieu. Zverev will next face the winner of an all-Italian clash between Flavio Cobolli and Matteo Arnaldi on Saturday for a last-16 berth.

Australian Open champion Jannik Sinner made light work of home favourite Richard Gasquet as he eased into the third round of the ongoing French Open 2025 on Thursday (May 29).&nbsp;

French Open: Jannik Sinner makes light work of Richard Gasquet to reach third round; Zverev sees off De Jong

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