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The <a href="Under%20the%20updated%20guidelines,%20transgender%20women%20and%20girls%20will%20no%20longer%20be%20eligible%20to%20play%20in%20women&rsquo;s%20or%20girls&rsquo;%20cricket.%20However,%20they%20will%20still%20be%20able%20to%20compete%20in%20open%20and%20mixed%20cricket%20competitions,%20which%20are%20not%20restricted%20by%20gender." rel="dofollow noopener" target="_blank">England and Wales Cricket Board </a>(ECB) on Friday (02 May) announced a significant shift towards the regulations for transgender players in women&rsquo;s and girls' cricket. This new rule, which takes effect immediately, allows only biological females to compete in women's cricket.
Under the updated guidelines, transgender women and girls will no longer be eligible to play in women&rsquo;s or girls&rsquo; cricket. However, they will still be able to compete in open and mixed cricket competitions, which are not restricted by gender.
Also Read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/jasprit-bumrah-australians-fear-no-indian-bowler-intimidated-us-like-he-does-ex-aussie-great-adam-gilchrist-9025387" rel="dofollow noopener" target="_blank">Australians fear Bumrah; no Indian bowler intimidated us like he does: Ex-Aussie great</a> <a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/jasprit-bumrah-australians-fear-no-indian-bowler-intimidated-us-like-he-does-ex-aussie-great-adam-gilchrist-9025387" rel="dofollow noopener" target="_blank">STORY HIGHLIGHTS</a>
This rule change has been inspired by a recent <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/uks-supreme-court-says-trans-women-are-not-legally-women-in-landmark-ruling-8969184" rel="dofollow noopener" target="_blank">United Kingdom Supreme Court ruling on transgender rights</a>. The ECB emphasised that while the decision was necessary to maintain fairness in the game, it remains committed to inclusivity. The board&rsquo;s previous regulations were designed to ensure that cricket remained accessible to everyone, but this update aligns with the new legal framework.
The ECB acknowledged that this change will have a significant impact on transgender women and girls. To support those affected, the board pledged to work closely with Recreational Cricket Boards to provide assistance and guidance during this transition.
Additionally, the ECB is awaiting updated advice from the Equality and Human Rights Commission (EHRC) and will carefully review it before making any further decisions.
In a statement, the ECB reaffirmed its commitment to ensuring that cricket remains a sport based on respect and inclusivity, stressing the fact that there is no place for discrimination or abuse within the sport.
This update marks a pivotal change in the sport as the ECB aims to balance inclusivity with fairness of the game, and the board continues to dialogue with the wider cricket community to address these sensitive issues.

Under the updated England Cricket Board guidelines, transgender women and girls will no longer be eligible to play in women’s or girls’ cricket. Sports

The England and Wales Cricket Board (ECB) on Friday (02 May) announced a significant shift towards the regulations for transgender players in women’s and girls' cricket. This new rule, which takes effect immediately, allows only biological females to compete in women's cricket. Under the updated guidelines, transgender women and girls will no longer be eligible to play in women’s or girls’ cricket. However, they will still be able to compete in open and mixed cricket competitions, which are not restricted by gender. Also Read | Australians fear Bumrah; no Indian bowler intimidated us like he does: Ex-Aussie great STORY HIGHLIGHTS This rule change has been inspired by a recent United Kingdom Supreme Court ruling on transgender rights. The ECB emphasised that while the decision was necessary to maintain fairness in the game, it remains committed to inclusivity. The board’s previous regulations were designed to ensure that cricket remained accessible to everyone, but this update aligns with the new legal framework. The ECB acknowledged that this change will have a significant impact on transgender women and girls. To support those affected, the board pledged to work closely with Recreational Cricket Boards to provide assistance and guidance during this transition. Additionally, the ECB is awaiting updated advice from the Equality and Human Rights Commission (EHRC) and will carefully review it before making any further decisions. In a statement, the ECB reaffirmed its commitment to ensuring that cricket remains a sport based on respect and inclusivity, stressing the fact that there is no place for discrimination or abuse within the sport. This update marks a pivotal change in the sport as the ECB aims to balance inclusivity with fairness of the game, and the board continues to dialogue with the wider cricket community to address these sensitive issues.

Transgender women and girls will no longer be eligible to play Women's cricket: England Cricket Board

We have entered the business end of <a href="https://www.wionews.com/tags/ipl-2025" rel="dofollow">IPL 2025</a>, with almost three weeks of action remaining; considering what follows next (the away England tour) holds significant value regarding India&rsquo;s Test history and quest for their maiden World Test Championship title, all eyes will be on the squad for the five-match Test series starting June 20. Former India coach Ravi Shastri has listed his preferred players, all uncapped in Tests, including the IPL boomer and <a href="https://www.wionews.com/tags/gujarat-titans" rel="dofollow">Gujarat Titans</a> opener Sai Sudharsan.
Team India&rsquo;s batting failure was the highlight of their last away tour (Down Under), which they lost (1-3), with the selectors and the coaches trying to pick the right players for the right conditions and delivering with them this time. Although India&rsquo;s batting order is stacked with top-class batters, including the veteran duo of captain Rohit Sharma and Virat Kohli, the selectors would be keen on having some young legs as backups.
Also read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/jasprit-bumrah-australians-fear-no-indian-bowler-intimidated-us-like-he-does-ex-aussie-great-adam-gilchrist-9025387" rel="dofollow">Australians fear Bumrah; no Indian bowler intimidated us like he does: Ex-Aussie great</a>
Several players have stood up in the meantime, pressing their case for a spot in the Indian Test Team for the tour of England, including GT opener Sudharsan. The left-handed batter is no new to the fame game, thanks to his impressive run of form across the past two seasons.
Having made his IPL debut in 2022, Sai has scored around 1500 runs across four seasons, including 527 runs in 12 matches last year, his best thus far; he, however, is inching closer to crossing this tally this season, having already amassed 456 runs from nine matches. Alongside Shubman Gill, Sai has formed a formidable partnership at the top, hitting five fifties and helping them stay afloat in the playoff race.&nbsp;
&ldquo;I see this young man, Sai Sudharsan, for all formats of the game,&rdquo; Shastri said while speaking on The ICC Review. &ldquo;He seems like a class player, and my eyes would be on him certainly.&rdquo;
Although Sai&rsquo;s First-Class average reads just above 39 in 29 matches, Shastri feels his stint with English County Surrey, where he scored 281 runs from five games, including a hundred and a fifty, would benefit him in those conditions.&nbsp;
&ldquo;Being a left-hander in England, knowing English conditions, and just his technique, the way he plays, I think he&rsquo;ll be top of the list for me from the outsiders wanting to get into this side,&rdquo; Shastri added.
<h2>&lsquo;India need left-arm quicks&rsquo;</h2>
Shastri feels that for India to end their 18-year winless series drought on English soil, they need a left-arm quick, suggesting two options.
&ldquo;It could be anyone. It could even be a white-ball specialist. I don&rsquo;t like this thing when they say someone like <a href="https://www.wionews.com/tags/arshdeep-singh" rel="dofollow">Arshdeep Singh</a> is a &lsquo;white-ball specialist&rsquo;.
&ldquo;You need a left-armer, go and find him, whoever it is and whoever is the best of the lot &ndash; pick them. There&rsquo;s Khaleel Ahmed, who, again, his rhythm is good; he&rsquo;s bowling well. So it&rsquo;s important to get that mix,&rdquo; Shastri continued.&nbsp;
Meanwhile, Khaleel and Arshdeep are among the wickets in IPL 2025, having picked 14 and 13 wickets each thus far, respectively.&nbsp;

Shastri feels that for India to end their 18-year winless series drought on English soil, they need a left-arm quick, suggesting two options. Sports, Cricket

We have entered the business end of IPL 2025, with almost three weeks of action remaining; considering what follows next (the away England tour) holds significant value regarding India’s Test history and quest for their maiden World Test Championship title, all eyes will be on the squad for the five-match Test series starting June 20. Former India coach Ravi Shastri has listed his preferred players, all uncapped in Tests, including the IPL boomer and Gujarat Titans opener Sai Sudharsan. Team India’s batting failure was the highlight of their last away tour (Down Under), which they lost (1-3), with the selectors and the coaches trying to pick the right players for the right conditions and delivering with them this time. Although India’s batting order is stacked with top-class batters, including the veteran duo of captain Rohit Sharma and Virat Kohli, the selectors would be keen on having some young legs as backups. Also read | Australians fear Bumrah; no Indian bowler intimidated us like he does: Ex-Aussie great Several players have stood up in the meantime, pressing their case for a spot in the Indian Test Team for the tour of England, including GT opener Sudharsan. The left-handed batter is no new to the fame game, thanks to his impressive run of form across the past two seasons. Having made his IPL debut in 2022, Sai has scored around 1500 runs across four seasons, including 527 runs in 12 matches last year, his best thus far; he, however, is inching closer to crossing this tally this season, having already amassed 456 runs from nine matches. Alongside Shubman Gill, Sai has formed a formidable partnership at the top, hitting five fifties and helping them stay afloat in the playoff race. “I see this young man, Sai Sudharsan, for all formats of the game,” Shastri said while speaking on The ICC Review. “He seems like a class player, and my eyes would be on him certainly.” Although Sai’s First-Class average reads just above 39 in 29 matches, Shastri feels his stint with English County Surrey, where he scored 281 runs from five games, including a hundred and a fifty, would benefit him in those conditions. “Being a left-hander in England, knowing English conditions, and just his technique, the way he plays, I think he’ll be top of the list for me from the outsiders wanting to get into this side,” Shastri added. ‘India need left-arm quicks’ Shastri feels that for India to end their 18-year winless series drought on English soil, they need a left-arm quick, suggesting two options. “It could be anyone. It could even be a white-ball specialist. I don’t like this thing when they say someone like Arshdeep Singh is a ‘white-ball specialist’. “You need a left-armer, go and find him, whoever it is and whoever is the best of the lot – pick them. There’s Khaleel Ahmed, who, again, his rhythm is good; he’s bowling well. So it’s important to get that mix,” Shastri continued. Meanwhile, Khaleel and Arshdeep are among the wickets in IPL 2025, having picked 14 and 13 wickets each thus far, respectively.

Sai Sudharsan on Shastri's preferred list for away England tour; ex-coach also backs left-arm quicks for selection

Suyash Sharma, the young leggie from <a href="https://www.wionews.com/search?title=royal+challengers+bengaluru" rel="dofollow noopener" target="_blank">Royal Challengers Bengaluru</a> (RCB), recently revealed how the franchise stood by him not just on the field, but off it too. Battling pain for nearly two years, Suyash shared that he was suffering from hernias in three different places, something that went undiagnosed in India until RCB stepped in and sent him to London for surgery.
Despite being told he would miss the first few games of IPL 2025, Suyash made a surprising recovery and played the opener against his former team, <a href="https://www.wionews.com/search?title=kolkata+knight+riders" rel="dofollow noopener" target="_blank">Kolkata Knight Riders</a>, on March 22.
Speaking to ESPNcricinfo, Suyash said, "We were practicing in February, and for two years, I had something going on for me," Suyash said. "I played after taking injections. Within India, we weren't even able to identify the problem that I was facing. RCB sent me to London for surgery. I met James Pipe there. He and his family treated me like their family."&nbsp;
Also Read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/cricket/suryakumar-yadav-is-first-player-to-score-25-plus-runs-in-11-consecutive-innings-in-ipl-9025145" rel="dofollow noopener" target="_blank">IPL 2025 | SKY now holds Orange Cap and THIS unique record as well after overtaking Robin Uthappa</a>
"I had a hernia in three different places. Honestly, I had little hope of playing the first match. I had had a big surgery, and was told that I would be playing only after three or four games. But Pipey and his family took great care of me. I am thankful that I came to this franchise; I became fully fit. Before that, I had been suffering from the pain for the last two years. I was used to playing in pain." Suyash continued.
<h2>Suyash's rise to the top</h2>
Picked by RCB for INR 2.6 crore at the&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/search?title=IPL+2025+mega+auction" rel="dofollow noopener" target="_blank">IPL 2025 mega auction</a>, Suyash had earlier played for KKR in 2023 and 2024. In his debut season, he took 10 wickets from 11 games. But in 2024, he featured in only two matches and went wicketless, before being released.
"If you're playing for India or a franchise, then you can still manage. But I had this injury when I wasn't even playing," he said. "At that time, I wasn't aware of anything; I just went to a physio, who told me something entirely different, so that made it difficult. RCB showed a lot of faith in me and invested so much in me."
Meanwhile, so far this season, Suyash has played nine of RCB&rsquo;s ten games, picking up four wickets.
The team currently sits in a strong position with 14 points and is pushing for a playoff spot.
They next face Chennai Super Kings at the Chinnaswamy Stadium on Saturday. (May 4)

Despite being told he would miss the first few games of IPL 2025, Suyash recovered quickly and played the opener against Kolkata Knight Riders on March 22. Sports Cricket

Suyash Sharma, the young leggie from Royal Challengers Bengaluru (RCB), recently revealed how the franchise stood by him not just on the field, but off it too. Battling pain for nearly two years, Suyash shared that he was suffering from hernias in three different places, something that went undiagnosed in India until RCB stepped in and sent him to London for surgery. Despite being told he would miss the first few games of IPL 2025, Suyash made a surprising recovery and played the opener against his former team, Kolkata Knight Riders, on March 22. Speaking to ESPNcricinfo, Suyash said, "We were practicing in February, and for two years, I had something going on for me," Suyash said. "I played after taking injections. Within India, we weren't even able to identify the problem that I was facing. RCB sent me to London for surgery. I met James Pipe there. He and his family treated me like their family." Also Read | IPL 2025 | SKY now holds Orange Cap and THIS unique record as well after overtaking Robin Uthappa "I had a hernia in three different places. Honestly, I had little hope of playing the first match. I had had a big surgery, and was told that I would be playing only after three or four games. But Pipey and his family took great care of me. I am thankful that I came to this franchise; I became fully fit. Before that, I had been suffering from the pain for the last two years. I was used to playing in pain." Suyash continued. Suyash's rise to the top Picked by RCB for INR 2.6 crore at the IPL 2025 mega auction, Suyash had earlier played for KKR in 2023 and 2024. In his debut season, he took 10 wickets from 11 games. But in 2024, he featured in only two matches and went wicketless, before being released. "If you're playing for India or a franchise, then you can still manage. But I had this injury when I wasn't even playing," he said. "At that time, I wasn't aware of anything; I just went to a physio, who told me something entirely different, so that made it difficult. RCB showed a lot of faith in me and invested so much in me." Meanwhile, so far this season, Suyash has played nine of RCB’s ten games, picking up four wickets. The team currently sits in a strong position with 14 points and is pushing for a playoff spot. They next face Chennai Super Kings at the Chinnaswamy Stadium on Saturday. (May 4)

IPL 2025: 'I was used to playing in pain,' RCB’s Suyash Sharma opens up on his battle with Hernia

Everyone fears facing <a href="https://www.wionews.com/tags/jasprit-bumrah" rel="dofollow">Jasprit Bumrah</a>, even the mighty Aussies. The ace Indian quick is perhaps the greatest pacer produced in India, and if former Australia gloveman Adam Gilchrist&rsquo;s words are to be believed, he is the greatest ever to grace the game. Though it could sound too big a remark for this generational talent, if a three-time World Cup winner suggests, so be it.
Bumrah has returned from the back injury he sustained during the fifth Test Down Under (against Australia at the SCG) and continues to make merry for the <a href="https://www.wionews.com/tags/mumbai-indians" rel="dofollow">Mumbai Indians</a> in <a href="https://www.wionews.com/tags/ipl-2025" rel="dofollow">IPL 2025</a>. His comeback triggered MI&rsquo;s winning run following a shallow start to the season, as they sit in the top position with 14 points from 11 contested matches thus far, including winning their past six games.
Also read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/ipl-2025-better-than-mcgrath-marshall-gilchrist-showers-highest-praise-on-all-time-great-jasprit-bumrah-mumbai-indians-9025045" rel="dofollow">Better than McGrath, Marshall? Gilchrist showers highest praise on &lsquo;all-time great' Jasprit Bumrah</a>
Although he&rsquo;s been making headlines since his return to the cash-rich league this time, having picked 11 wickets in seven innings, and including becoming MI&rsquo;s highest wicket-taker, the Indian seamer&nbsp;was all over the news before pulling out due to a back spasm on the Australian tour.
<h2>Bumrah bossed Oz</h2>
Against Australia during BGT 2024/25, Bumrah was the highest wicket-taker, picking 32 wickets in five Tests, seven more than the second-best in Australia captain Pat Cummins (25) while playing an inning less.
His tally was record-breaking on several counts, as he became the first Indian seamer to pick beyond 30 wickets on a tour Down Under; he also had the record for the most wickets picked up by an Indian bowler on Australian soil.
Bumrah returned with a six-wicket haul, two five-fors and a four-wicket haul this time, creating terror in the minds of the Aussie batters.&nbsp;
Speaking on the same lines, Gilchrist believes that never before has an Indian quick traumatised the Aussies the way Bumrah does.&nbsp;
"A seamer from India, consistently throughout, particularly the series that we just saw in the summer, back home in the Australian summer, no, I don't think so," Gilchrist replies when asked whether Australians were intimidated and afraid of a bowler from India like they were against Jasprit Bumrah before.
Cannot stop praising Bumrah, Gilchrist continued, "We just sat and watched in awe at close range, commentating on that series and again, I know it's a different format, but he is the best all-format bowler; that's nothing to argue there," the former wicketkeeper-batter said.
Meanwhile, Bumrah would be crucial to India&rsquo;s chances on their next away tour of England later this year, including five Tests, starting June 20.&nbsp;

Bumrah returned with a six-wicket haul, two five-fors and a four-wicket haul in the last BGT, creating terror in the minds of the Aussie batters. Sports, Cricket

Everyone fears facing Jasprit Bumrah, even the mighty Aussies. The ace Indian quick is perhaps the greatest pacer produced in India, and if former Australia gloveman Adam Gilchrist’s words are to be believed, he is the greatest ever to grace the game. Though it could sound too big a remark for this generational talent, if a three-time World Cup winner suggests, so be it. Bumrah has returned from the back injury he sustained during the fifth Test Down Under (against Australia at the SCG) and continues to make merry for the Mumbai Indians in IPL 2025. His comeback triggered MI’s winning run following a shallow start to the season, as they sit in the top position with 14 points from 11 contested matches thus far, including winning their past six games. Also read | Better than McGrath, Marshall? Gilchrist showers highest praise on ‘all-time great' Jasprit Bumrah Although he’s been making headlines since his return to the cash-rich league this time, having picked 11 wickets in seven innings, and including becoming MI’s highest wicket-taker, the Indian seamer was all over the news before pulling out due to a back spasm on the Australian tour. Bumrah bossed Oz Against Australia during BGT 2024/25, Bumrah was the highest wicket-taker, picking 32 wickets in five Tests, seven more than the second-best in Australia captain Pat Cummins (25) while playing an inning less. His tally was record-breaking on several counts, as he became the first Indian seamer to pick beyond 30 wickets on a tour Down Under; he also had the record for the most wickets picked up by an Indian bowler on Australian soil. Bumrah returned with a six-wicket haul, two five-fors and a four-wicket haul this time, creating terror in the minds of the Aussie batters. Speaking on the same lines, Gilchrist believes that never before has an Indian quick traumatised the Aussies the way Bumrah does. "A seamer from India, consistently throughout, particularly the series that we just saw in the summer, back home in the Australian summer, no, I don't think so," Gilchrist replies when asked whether Australians were intimidated and afraid of a bowler from India like they were against Jasprit Bumrah before. Cannot stop praising Bumrah, Gilchrist continued, "We just sat and watched in awe at close range, commentating on that series and again, I know it's a different format, but he is the best all-format bowler; that's nothing to argue there," the former wicketkeeper-batter said. Meanwhile, Bumrah would be crucial to India’s chances on their next away tour of England later this year, including five Tests, starting June 20.

Australians fear Bumrah; no Indian bowler intimidated us like he does: Ex-Aussie great

The Sawai Mansingh Stadium in Jaipur witnessed a one-sided contest on Thursday (May 1), as the&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/search?title=rajasthan+royals" rel="dofollow noopener" target="_blank">Rajasthan Royals </a>(RR) were outplayed by the <a href="https://www.wionews.com/search?title=mumbai+indians" rel="dofollow noopener" target="_blank">Mumbai Indians</a> (MI) in IPL 2025. Mumbai, led by Hardik Pandya, secured a dominant 100-run victory, knocking the Royals out of the tournament. But despite the defeat, RR had something to smile about. This wasn&rsquo;t just any game; it was their special&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/explained-what-is-rajasthan-royals-pink-promise-cricket-rajasthan-royals-pink-jersey-pink-promise-mumbai-indians-ipl-2025-9023349" rel="dofollow noopener" target="_blank">Pink Promise match</a>.
As part of this annual initiative, Rajasthan Royals pledged to light up six homes in Sambhar, a small town in Rajasthan, with solar power for every six hit during the match. By the end of the evening, a total of 13 sixes were struck, seven by Mumbai and six by Rajasthan, meaning 78 homes will soon be illuminated through this thoughtful effort.
<blockquote class="twitter-tweet publive-iframes-block publive-Twitter-block" contenteditable="false" width="600" height="400" id="PL_blockquote_block-ma6gtkm2-d0mjchyw-g095xq6y">
A Pink Parade for <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/PinkPromise?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#PinkPromise</a>! 💗 For the women of Sambhar. For the women of India. 🇮🇳 <a href="https://t.co/asRRWaEcuu">pic.twitter.com/asRRWaEcuu</a>
&mdash; Rajasthan Royals (@rajasthanroyals) <a href="https://twitter.com/rajasthanroyals/status/1918153027367666110?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">May 2, 2025</a></blockquote>
Also Read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/cricket/ipl-2025-playoff-scenarios-what-each-team-needs-to-make-it-to-playoffs-9023263" rel="dofollow noopener" target="_blank">IPL 2025 | What each team needs to make it to playoffs</a>
This isn&rsquo;t the first time RR have used cricket as a tool for change.
Last year, with support from Luminous, they lit up over 250 homes in rural Rajasthan. Now, thanks to this match, 78 more families will benefit through this initiative. Rajasthan Royals have perfectly used the reach and excitement of IPL to bring out a change.
While the match had its big moments, the real victory came off the field. In a tournament full of victory and defeat, this initiative stood out not just for the sixes hit, but for the homes it aims to brighten.
<h2>MI in the top two</h2>
With this win, Mumbai Indians have climbed to the top of the points table, extending their winning streak to six matches. Rajasthan Royals, meanwhile, have been officially knocked out of the IPL 2025 playoff race.
Mumbai will now aim to win their remaining three league games and secure a spot in the top two, which would earn them a place in Qualifier 1, scheduled for May 20 at the Rajiv Gandhi International Stadium in Hyderabad. Finishing in the top two provides a crucial advantage, a direct path to the final if you win Qualifier 1, and a second chance via Qualifier 2 if you don&rsquo;t.
As the playoff race heats up, it will be interesting to see how the points table turns up in the coming days, with multiple teams still in contention for the playoffs.

As part of this annual initiative, Rajasthan Royals pledged to light up six homes in Sambhar with solar power for every six hit during the match. Cricket Sports

The Sawai Mansingh Stadium in Jaipur witnessed a one-sided contest on Thursday (May 1), as the Rajasthan Royals (RR) were outplayed by the Mumbai Indians (MI) in IPL 2025. Mumbai, led by Hardik Pandya, secured a dominant 100-run victory, knocking the Royals out of the tournament. But despite the defeat, RR had something to smile about. This wasn’t just any game; it was their special Pink Promise match. As part of this annual initiative, Rajasthan Royals pledged to light up six homes in Sambhar, a small town in Rajasthan, with solar power for every six hit during the match. By the end of the evening, a total of 13 sixes were struck, seven by Mumbai and six by Rajasthan, meaning 78 homes will soon be illuminated through this thoughtful effort. A Pink Parade for #PinkPromise! 💗 For the women of Sambhar. For the women of India. 🇮🇳 pic.twitter.com/asRRWaEcuu — Rajasthan Royals (@rajasthanroyals) May 2, 2025 Also Read | IPL 2025 | What each team needs to make it to playoffs This isn’t the first time RR have used cricket as a tool for change. Last year, with support from Luminous, they lit up over 250 homes in rural Rajasthan. Now, thanks to this match, 78 more families will benefit through this initiative. Rajasthan Royals have perfectly used the reach and excitement of IPL to bring out a change. While the match had its big moments, the real victory came off the field. In a tournament full of victory and defeat, this initiative stood out not just for the sixes hit, but for the homes it aims to brighten. MI in the top two With this win, Mumbai Indians have climbed to the top of the points table, extending their winning streak to six matches. Rajasthan Royals, meanwhile, have been officially knocked out of the IPL 2025 playoff race. Mumbai will now aim to win their remaining three league games and secure a spot in the top two, which would earn them a place in Qualifier 1, scheduled for May 20 at the Rajiv Gandhi International Stadium in Hyderabad. Finishing in the top two provides a crucial advantage, a direct path to the final if you win Qualifier 1, and a second chance via Qualifier 2 if you don’t. As the playoff race heats up, it will be interesting to see how the points table turns up in the coming days, with multiple teams still in contention for the playoffs.

How many homes will lit up after RR's Pink Promise game? Check out numbers

Cricket has had many heroes in its almost 150-year-old history, but has anyone been as good as <a href="https://www.wionews.com/tags/jasprit-bumrah" rel="dofollow">Jasprit Bumrah</a>? Former Australia keeper and three-time World Cup winner Adam Gilchrist doesn&rsquo;t think so. Considering the ageless greats in Wasim Akram, Malcolm Marshall and even Glenn McGrath&rsquo;s numbers and impact on the game, they are all probably second to Bumrah, who Gilchrist calls perhaps the greatest of all time, let alone from India.
Bumrah is a generational talent. Not that the game hasn&rsquo;t seen more lethal pacers or probably more consistent and prolific wicket-takers than him, but how quickly he changes the game&rsquo;s equation separates him from the rest.
Also read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/vaibhav-suryavanshi-goes-from-record-ipl-hundred-to-second-ball-duck-in-two-games-as-rr-knocked-out-of-ipl-2025-9024452" rel="dofollow">Vaibhav Suryavanshi goes from record IPL hundred to second-ball duck in two games as RR knocked out</a>
Bumrah was nursing a back injury he sustained during the final BGT Test Down early this year (in Sydney) and missed out on all action since. Even though he failed to regain full fitness in the lead-up to IPL 2025, missing a few matches earlier, his impact since his return is there for everyone to see.&nbsp; Having played seven games on the trot since returning, Bumrah has picked 11 wickets at 17.73, including a four-wicket haul.
<h2>'Best ever'</h2>
Speaking highly of the Indian quick, who spearheads the <a href="https://www.wionews.com/tags/mumbai-indians" rel="dofollow">Mumbai Indians</a>&rsquo; bowling attack, the team that now sits at the top of the points table with 14 points from 11 contested matches, Gilchrist said Bumrah is the Sir Donald Bradman of the bowlers and that everyone is lucky watching the greatness unfold in front of their eyes.
"He's maybe the best bowler, fast bowler of all time,&rdquo; Gilchrist said on Cricbuzz.
&ldquo;When you start stacking up the statistics and the varying conditions that he has to go out and execute those skills in, I guess you look at Sir Donald Bradman's numbers compared to his peers, and he's just so far ahead, so I think Bumrah is sort of in that category across all the different variations that you get in conditions and pitches that you've got to bowl on. He's significantly further ahead than the peers around him, so that tells you we are truly watching greatness,&rdquo; he continued.&nbsp;
Also read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/we-dont-buy-superstars-we-make-them-rr-coachs-cheeky-remark-after-ipl-2025-playoff-elimination-dishant-yagnik-9024671" rel="dofollow">&lsquo;We don&rsquo;t buy superstars, we make them,&rsquo; RR coach's cheeky remark after IPL 2025 playoff elimination</a>
Meanwhile, against the Rajasthan Royals in Jaipur, Bumrah picked up two wickets, both coming off successive balls in his first over. He first removed RR captain Riyan Parag, caught off a bouncer, before sending the dangerous Shimron Hetmyer on a first-ball duck.&nbsp;
<blockquote class="twitter-tweet publive-iframes-block publive-Twitter-block" contenteditable="false" width="600" height="400" id="PL_blockquote_block-ma6gln8n-fsv27ri6-pxkbzpw3">
Cameraman: Where did it go? SKY: Right here! 😉 🎥 Surya Kumar Yadav&rsquo;s sharp take left everyone guessing 😮 Updates ▶ <a href="https://t.co/t4j49gXHDu">https://t.co/t4j49gXHDu</a><a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/TATAIPL?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#TATAIPL</a> | <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/RRvMI?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#RRvMI</a> | <a href="https://twitter.com/mipaltan?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@mipaltan</a> | <a href="https://twitter.com/surya_14kumar?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@surya_14kumar</a> <a href="https://t.co/8PkZy0O5Tu">pic.twitter.com/8PkZy0O5Tu</a>
&mdash; IndianPremierLeague (@IPL) <a href="https://twitter.com/IPL/status/1917984173752713424?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">May 1, 2025</a></blockquote>
Though he missed out on his hat-trick against RR, Bumrah&rsquo;s double-wicket-over floored the hosts, who lost the match by an embarrassing 100 runs, getting knocked out of the tournament with that.&nbsp;

Not that cricket hasn’t seen more consistent bowlers than Bumrah, but how quickly he changes the game’s equation separates him from the rest. Sports, Cricket

Cricket has had many heroes in its almost 150-year-old history, but has anyone been as good as Jasprit Bumrah? Former Australia keeper and three-time World Cup winner Adam Gilchrist doesn’t think so. Considering the ageless greats in Wasim Akram, Malcolm Marshall and even Glenn McGrath’s numbers and impact on the game, they are all probably second to Bumrah, who Gilchrist calls perhaps the greatest of all time, let alone from India. Bumrah is a generational talent. Not that the game hasn’t seen more lethal pacers or probably more consistent and prolific wicket-takers than him, but how quickly he changes the game’s equation separates him from the rest. Also read | Vaibhav Suryavanshi goes from record IPL hundred to second-ball duck in two games as RR knocked out Bumrah was nursing a back injury he sustained during the final BGT Test Down early this year (in Sydney) and missed out on all action since. Even though he failed to regain full fitness in the lead-up to IPL 2025, missing a few matches earlier, his impact since his return is there for everyone to see. Having played seven games on the trot since returning, Bumrah has picked 11 wickets at 17.73, including a four-wicket haul. 'Best ever' Speaking highly of the Indian quick, who spearheads the Mumbai Indians’ bowling attack, the team that now sits at the top of the points table with 14 points from 11 contested matches, Gilchrist said Bumrah is the Sir Donald Bradman of the bowlers and that everyone is lucky watching the greatness unfold in front of their eyes. "He's maybe the best bowler, fast bowler of all time,” Gilchrist said on Cricbuzz. “When you start stacking up the statistics and the varying conditions that he has to go out and execute those skills in, I guess you look at Sir Donald Bradman's numbers compared to his peers, and he's just so far ahead, so I think Bumrah is sort of in that category across all the different variations that you get in conditions and pitches that you've got to bowl on. He's significantly further ahead than the peers around him, so that tells you we are truly watching greatness,” he continued. Also read | ‘We don’t buy superstars, we make them,’ RR coach's cheeky remark after IPL 2025 playoff elimination Meanwhile, against the Rajasthan Royals in Jaipur, Bumrah picked up two wickets, both coming off successive balls in his first over. He first removed RR captain Riyan Parag, caught off a bouncer, before sending the dangerous Shimron Hetmyer on a first-ball duck. Cameraman: Where did it go? SKY: Right here! 😉 🎥 Surya Kumar Yadav’s sharp take left everyone guessing 😮 Updates ▶ https://t.co/t4j49gXHDu#TATAIPL | #RRvMI | @mipaltan | @surya_14kumar pic.twitter.com/8PkZy0O5Tu — IndianPremierLeague (@IPL) May 1, 2025 Though he missed out on his hat-trick against RR, Bumrah’s double-wicket-over floored the hosts, who lost the match by an embarrassing 100 runs, getting knocked out of the tournament with that.

Better than McGrath, Marshall? Gilchrist showers highest praise on ‘all-time great' Jasprit Bumrah

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/tags/rajasthan-royals" rel="dofollow">Rajasthan Royals</a> has featured several youngsters who later emerged as superstars for the Indian Team. Be it the two-time World Cup winner Yusuf Pathan, their captain Sanju Samson or even the new rookie kid on the block, <a href="https://www.wionews.com/tags/vaibhav-suryavanshi" rel="dofollow">Vaibhav Suryavanshi</a>, who looks promising, especially after his maiden IPL hundred. Though RR had a stacked roster this time, with several Indian and overseas match winners, they failed to qualify for the <a href="https://www.wionews.com/tags/ipl-2025" rel="dofollow">IPL 2025</a> playoffs, receiving flak over their auction failure.
Losing to Mumbai Indians by an embarrassing 100-run margin the other night in Jaipur, RR got knocked out of the tournament, but fielding coach Dishant Yagnik feels the management is content with the team and not concerned about whom they should have picked and retained; Yagnik revealed the team&rsquo;s motto, saying they believe in creating superstars out of players and not at purchasing them.
Also read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/vaibhav-suryavanshi-goes-from-record-ipl-hundred-to-second-ball-duck-in-two-games-as-rr-knocked-out-of-ipl-2025-9024452" rel="dofollow">Vaibhav Suryavanshi goes from record IPL hundred to second-ball duck in two games as RR knocked out</a>
These remarks, however, have come on the back of RR deciding against retaining their top performers in the previous seasons, Jos Buttler, who plays for Gujarat Titans now, and the bowling pair of Yuzvendra Chahal (Punjab Kings) and Trent Boult (Mumbai Indians), all three of whom are doing wonders for their respective teams.
"Whenever a new player has entered our side over the years, they weren't stars already," Yagnik said during the post-match presser in Jaipur. "They became stars at our franchise. The current bunch, we're confident that they will become stars, we'll make them stars. We don't buy superstars, we make superstars, that's our tagline.&rdquo;
<h2>&lsquo;We will win with this side&rsquo;</h2>
Citing the example of the youngest ever recruit in IPL history, the 14-year-old Vaibhav, who, in the previous game, struck his maiden IPL hundred, breaking a plethora of records, Yagnik said like everyone, he was happy and emotional for Vaibhav too, throwing his support behind him on becoming a future superstar.&nbsp;
"For example, take Vaibhav Suryavanshi, everyone was happy and emotional for him, the way he batted. So, in the coming years, guys like him will become stars.
"Time has come for us to look beyond such things (regretting not retaining players like Buttler). When we don't have them, we have to forget and move on. Now, we have Vaibhav, Yashasvi Jaiswal, and Sanju Samson is our captain. We'll go ahead with this side, and we'll prove our winning ability with this side."
Meanwhile, Rajasthan became the second team after Chennai Super Kings to get knocked out of the IPL 2025 playoff race.&nbsp;

Though RR had a stacked roster this time, they failed to qualify for the IPL 2025 playoffs, receiving flak over their auction failure. Sports, Cricket

Rajasthan Royals has featured several youngsters who later emerged as superstars for the Indian Team. Be it the two-time World Cup winner Yusuf Pathan, their captain Sanju Samson or even the new rookie kid on the block, Vaibhav Suryavanshi, who looks promising, especially after his maiden IPL hundred. Though RR had a stacked roster this time, with several Indian and overseas match winners, they failed to qualify for the IPL 2025 playoffs, receiving flak over their auction failure. Losing to Mumbai Indians by an embarrassing 100-run margin the other night in Jaipur, RR got knocked out of the tournament, but fielding coach Dishant Yagnik feels the management is content with the team and not concerned about whom they should have picked and retained; Yagnik revealed the team’s motto, saying they believe in creating superstars out of players and not at purchasing them. Also read | Vaibhav Suryavanshi goes from record IPL hundred to second-ball duck in two games as RR knocked out These remarks, however, have come on the back of RR deciding against retaining their top performers in the previous seasons, Jos Buttler, who plays for Gujarat Titans now, and the bowling pair of Yuzvendra Chahal (Punjab Kings) and Trent Boult (Mumbai Indians), all three of whom are doing wonders for their respective teams. "Whenever a new player has entered our side over the years, they weren't stars already," Yagnik said during the post-match presser in Jaipur. "They became stars at our franchise. The current bunch, we're confident that they will become stars, we'll make them stars. We don't buy superstars, we make superstars, that's our tagline.” ‘We will win with this side’ Citing the example of the youngest ever recruit in IPL history, the 14-year-old Vaibhav, who, in the previous game, struck his maiden IPL hundred, breaking a plethora of records, Yagnik said like everyone, he was happy and emotional for Vaibhav too, throwing his support behind him on becoming a future superstar. "For example, take Vaibhav Suryavanshi, everyone was happy and emotional for him, the way he batted. So, in the coming years, guys like him will become stars. "Time has come for us to look beyond such things (regretting not retaining players like Buttler). When we don't have them, we have to forget and move on. Now, we have Vaibhav, Yashasvi Jaiswal, and Sanju Samson is our captain. We'll go ahead with this side, and we'll prove our winning ability with this side." Meanwhile, Rajasthan became the second team after Chennai Super Kings to get knocked out of the IPL 2025 playoff race.

‘We don’t buy superstars, we make them,’ RR coach's cheeky remark after IPL 2025 playoff elimination

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/tags/vaibhav-suryavanshi" rel="dofollow">Vaibhav Suryavanshi</a> went from scoring a record-breaking IPL hundred to getting out on a second-ball duck in two successive matches. After scaling heights no one came close to in the competition&rsquo;s history the other night, the rookie <a href="https://www.wionews.com/tags/rajasthan-royals" rel="dofollow">Rajasthan Royals</a> opener failed to repeat his heroics in the next game in IPL 2025, getting out inside the first over as his team lost to <a href="https://www.wionews.com/tags/mumbai-indians" rel="dofollow">Mumbai Indians</a> by 100 runs.
Life came quickly for the 14-year-old in his debut IPL season.&nbsp;Making history at last year&rsquo;s auction by becoming the youngest to get picked, the left-handed opener went one step ahead in his maiden edition, becoming the youngest ever to play in the cash-rich league and to score an IPL hundred, scoring a brilliant 101 against Gujarat Titans in a home game.&nbsp;
Though Rajasthan Royals completed a massive run chase in that game, setting the franchise record and keeping their little hopes for the playoffs afloat, an embarrassing 100-run loss at the hands of Mumbai Indians ended their chance of making it to the top four.
Chasing a colossal 218 in Jaipur, the hosts needed another superb start. But unlike how it panned out against GT, they lost wickets in a cluster, including five of their top six inside the Powerplay, resulting in a loss and elimination from the tournament.&nbsp;
It all began with Vaibhav&rsquo;s wicket on the second ball of RR&rsquo;s innings when he tried taking the aerial route off a fuller-length ball, only for him to miscue it and send it straight down Will Jacks&rsquo; throat.
Though the Mumbai Indians camp celebrated his wicket loudly, knowing what he could do on his day, there was pin-drop silence at the venue.
<h2>Dream start, but plenty to follow&nbsp;</h2>
Vaibhav had the most amazing start to his IPL career. On his debut against the travelling Lucknow Super Giants (LSG), Vaibhav hit a six off the first ball off seamer Shardul Thakur, sending the cricket world into a frenzy.&nbsp;
He scored 50 runs in his first two outings, but his moment came in the third game when he struck his maiden IPL hundred off just 35 balls &ndash; the second-quickest in IPL history.&nbsp;
His success, however, drew the attention of former stars, including Virender Sehwag, who <a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/ipl-2025-maybe-we-wont-see-him-virender-sehwag-on-rr-teen-vaibhav-suryavanshi-after-wonder-debut-9001361" rel="dofollow">warned him against getting complacent after his dream debut</a>.
&ldquo;Suryavanshi must aim to play for 20 years in the IPL. Look at Virat Kohli; he started playing when he was 19 years old, and now he has played all 18 seasons. That is what he should be trying to emulate. But, if he is happy with this IPL, thinking that he is now a crorepati, had a great debut, hit a six off the first ball, maybe we won't see him next year," Sehwag said on Cricbuzz.

Vaibhav tried taking the aerial route off a fuller-length ball off Deepak Chahar, only for him to miscue it and send it straight down Will Jacks’ throat. Sports, Cricket

Vaibhav Suryavanshi went from scoring a record-breaking IPL hundred to getting out on a second-ball duck in two successive matches. After scaling heights no one came close to in the competition’s history the other night, the rookie Rajasthan Royals opener failed to repeat his heroics in the next game in IPL 2025, getting out inside the first over as his team lost to Mumbai Indians by 100 runs. Life came quickly for the 14-year-old in his debut IPL season. Making history at last year’s auction by becoming the youngest to get picked, the left-handed opener went one step ahead in his maiden edition, becoming the youngest ever to play in the cash-rich league and to score an IPL hundred, scoring a brilliant 101 against Gujarat Titans in a home game. Though Rajasthan Royals completed a massive run chase in that game, setting the franchise record and keeping their little hopes for the playoffs afloat, an embarrassing 100-run loss at the hands of Mumbai Indians ended their chance of making it to the top four. Chasing a colossal 218 in Jaipur, the hosts needed another superb start. But unlike how it panned out against GT, they lost wickets in a cluster, including five of their top six inside the Powerplay, resulting in a loss and elimination from the tournament. It all began with Vaibhav’s wicket on the second ball of RR’s innings when he tried taking the aerial route off a fuller-length ball, only for him to miscue it and send it straight down Will Jacks’ throat. Though the Mumbai Indians camp celebrated his wicket loudly, knowing what he could do on his day, there was pin-drop silence at the venue. Dream start, but plenty to follow Vaibhav had the most amazing start to his IPL career. On his debut against the travelling Lucknow Super Giants (LSG), Vaibhav hit a six off the first ball off seamer Shardul Thakur, sending the cricket world into a frenzy. He scored 50 runs in his first two outings, but his moment came in the third game when he struck his maiden IPL hundred off just 35 balls – the second-quickest in IPL history. His success, however, drew the attention of former stars, including Virender Sehwag, who warned him against getting complacent after his dream debut. “Suryavanshi must aim to play for 20 years in the IPL. Look at Virat Kohli; he started playing when he was 19 years old, and now he has played all 18 seasons. That is what he should be trying to emulate. But, if he is happy with this IPL, thinking that he is now a crorepati, had a great debut, hit a six off the first ball, maybe we won't see him next year," Sehwag said on Cricbuzz.

Vaibhav Suryavanshi goes from record IPL hundred to second-ball duck in two games as RR knocked out

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/tags/chelsea" rel="dofollow">Chelsea</a> strolled to a comfortable 4-1 win at Djurgarden in the first leg of their UEFA Conference League semi-final on Thursday to all but book their spot in the final. In the other semi-final, Spain's Real Betis take a 2-1 lead into the return fixture against two-time runners-up Fiorentina.<o:p></o:p>
First-half goals from Jadon Sancho and Noni Madueke put Chelsea in control in Sweden, before Nicolas Jackson grabbed a brace midway through the second period.<o:p></o:p>
"It was (a perfect night), an important semi-final," Chelsea manager Enzo Maresca told TNT Sports. "It's a good result, but we have the experience from the Legia Warsaw game, where we won 3-0 there and we struggled a little bit (Chelsea's only loss in the tournament came at home in the return fixture), so we need to be focused on the second leg."<o:p></o:p>
Also read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/manchester-united-inch-closer-to-europa-league-final-after-athletic-bilbao-bashing-9024239" rel="dofollow">Manchester United inch closer to Europa League final after Bilbao bashing</a> 
Maresca's side has one foot in the final of the Conference League in their debut campaign in the third-tier European competition.<o:p></o:p>
Lifting the trophy in the Polish city of Wroclaw on May 28 would add another continental title to the London club's haul of two Champions Leagues, a pair of Europa Leagues and two UEFA Cup Winners' Cups.<o:p></o:p>
Their opponents, on the other hand, don't quite boast the same European pedigree, and in making the last four became the first Swedish side to play a semi-final in Europe since 1986/87.<o:p></o:p>
To further add to Djurgarden's underdog status, coach Jani Honkavaara only had 14 senior players fit to call upon for the visit of the Premier League giants.<o:p></o:p>
Chelsea took the lead via Sancho on 12 minutes as the winger collected a lofted pass in the box and slotted the ball past the goalkeeper before the retreating Marcus Danielson sliced his attempted clearance against his own arm and into the goal.<o:p></o:p>
The goal settled Chelsea, who slowly got more accustomed to the artificial surface in Stockholm and began to dominate Djurgarden.<o:p></o:p>
Madueke made that dominance pay two minutes prior to half-time when he opened up his body to feint a cross-goal shot with his left foot, before sweeping a first-time finish inside the near post.
Disclaimer:&nbsp;This story has been published from a news agency feed with minimal edits to adhere to WION's style guide. The headline may have been changed to better reflect the content of the story or to make it more suitable for the WION audience.

First-half goals from Sancho and Noni Madueke put Chelsea in control in Sweden, before Nicolas Jackson grabbed a brace midway through the second period. Sports, Football

Chelsea strolled to a comfortable 4-1 win at Djurgarden in the first leg of their UEFA Conference League semi-final on Thursday to all but book their spot in the final. In the other semi-final, Spain's Real Betis take a 2-1 lead into the return fixture against two-time runners-up Fiorentina. First-half goals from Jadon Sancho and Noni Madueke put Chelsea in control in Sweden, before Nicolas Jackson grabbed a brace midway through the second period. "It was (a perfect night), an important semi-final," Chelsea manager Enzo Maresca told TNT Sports. "It's a good result, but we have the experience from the Legia Warsaw game, where we won 3-0 there and we struggled a little bit (Chelsea's only loss in the tournament came at home in the return fixture), so we need to be focused on the second leg." Also read | Manchester United inch closer to Europa League final after Bilbao bashing Maresca's side has one foot in the final of the Conference League in their debut campaign in the third-tier European competition. Lifting the trophy in the Polish city of Wroclaw on May 28 would add another continental title to the London club's haul of two Champions Leagues, a pair of Europa Leagues and two UEFA Cup Winners' Cups. Their opponents, on the other hand, don't quite boast the same European pedigree, and in making the last four became the first Swedish side to play a semi-final in Europe since 1986/87. To further add to Djurgarden's underdog status, coach Jani Honkavaara only had 14 senior players fit to call upon for the visit of the Premier League giants. Chelsea took the lead via Sancho on 12 minutes as the winger collected a lofted pass in the box and slotted the ball past the goalkeeper before the retreating Marcus Danielson sliced his attempted clearance against his own arm and into the goal. The goal settled Chelsea, who slowly got more accustomed to the artificial surface in Stockholm and began to dominate Djurgarden. Madueke made that dominance pay two minutes prior to half-time when he opened up his body to feint a cross-goal shot with his left foot, before sweeping a first-time finish inside the near post. Disclaimer: This story has been published from a news agency feed with minimal edits to adhere to WION's style guide. The headline may have been changed to better reflect the content of the story or to make it more suitable for the WION audience.

Chelsea squash Djurgarden to book berth in UEFA Conference League final

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/tags/bruno-fernandes" rel="dofollow">Bruno Fernandes</a> struck twice as <a href="https://www.wionews.com/tags/manchester-united" rel="dofollow">Manchester United</a> put one foot in the <a href="https://www.wionews.com/tags/europa-league" rel="dofollow">Europa League</a> final with a clinical away performance to beat 10-man Athletic Bilbao 3-0 on Thursday.<o:p></o:p>
The fervent home fans were enraged when Athletic defender Daniel Vivian was sent off for pulling back Rasmus Hojlund, and Fernandes slotted home the resulting penalty, after Casemiro had opened the scoring against the run of play in the semi-final first leg.<o:p></o:p>
Fernandes rolled in a third before half-time as Ruben Amorim's side moved a step closer to the final, to be held at Athletic's San Mames stadium.<o:p></o:p>
The hosts have been dreaming of winning a first European trophy on their own soil, but their hopes were demolished by United's professional display in the north of Spain -- and Athletic's supporters argued, the refereeing.<o:p></o:p>
"I think it's the best result (of my tenure) because nobody expected this result -- but you saw two games today," Amorim told reporters. "The first 25 mins, then (another one) after the goal and the sending-off."<o:p></o:p>
Languishing in 14th in the Premier League, Champions League qualification for United is only possible with a Europa League triumph, as is access to the &pound;100 million ($133 million) honeypot it entails.<o:p></o:p>
Despite regularly crumbling under pressure this season, the Red Devils -- who produced a stunning comeback against Lyon in the quarter-finals -- first survived and then thrived in a hostile environment.<o:p></o:p>
"We looked a little bit nervous at times in the first 20 minutes... we weathered the storm and we knew we'd get our chance," Man United's Harry Maguire told TNT Sports. "It was a clinical first half, professional second half... It's a great victory in the end, but there's another big game next week."<o:p></o:p>
With May 1 a bank holiday in Spain, the streets of Bilbao were filled with red-and-white striped shirts from the morning onwards, in party mode.<o:p></o:p>
The San Mames was rocking as fans greeted their heroes, all of them born or raised in the Basque country, as per the club's century-long policy.<o:p></o:p>
Beyond an Alejandro Garnacho goal ruled out for offside, the early stages for United were about gritting their teeth and holding off the hosts.<o:p></o:p>
<h2>Red card rocks hosts</h2>
Alex Berenguer forced a smart low save from Manchester United goalkeeper Andre Onana, and Inaki Williams headed narrowly over.<o:p></o:p>
Victor Lindelof made a vital block to thwart Berenguer after Nico Williams fed his brother Inaki, who was given too much space on the right wing.<o:p></o:p>
The hosts were ascendant, and when former Real Madrid midfielder Casemiro opened the scoring for United, it came as a shock.<o:p></o:p>
Just as much of a surprise was the way United created the goal, with centre-back Maguire dribbling down the right flank as Mikel Jaureguizar floundered in his wake.<o:p></o:p>
The defender fizzed a cross into the area, which Manuel Ugarte flicked on for Casemiro to nod home from close range.<o:p></o:p>
It seemed like a smash-and-grab, but soon United had a second, when Vivian was penalised for pulling back Hojlund as he tried to connect with a cross.<o:p></o:p>
The defender was sent off to add insult to injury, and Fernandes stroked home from the spot.<o:p></o:p>
"The penalty and the red card... conditioned the game. At 11 against 11, we were doing well," said Athletic coach Ernesto Valverde.<o:p></o:p>
United made it three before half-time. Ugarte's clever backheel played Fernandes through,h and he stroked home.<o:p></o:p>
Noussair Mazraoui crashed a shot off the crossbar from distance as United almost grabbed a fourth before the break.<o:p></o:p>
Athletic fans were further enraged in the second half, waving anything white to show their disgust, when Maroan Sannadi tumbled under pressure from Maguire as he ran towards goal, but no foul was awarded.<o:p></o:p>
United largely controlled the game in the second half, but they could not add a fourth despite probing.<o:p></o:p>
The second leg takes place next Thursday at Old Trafford, ahead of the final on May 21 against Tottenham or Bodo/Glimt.<o:p></o:p>
"At the slightest contact (Hojlund) let himself fall, and the bad luck is that the penalty was given," said Inaki Williams. "We weren't particularly great, so we shouldn't make excuses -- we're three goals down, but we're capable of mounting a comeback."
Disclaimer:&nbsp;This story has been published from a news agency feed with minimal edits to adhere to WION's style guide. The headline may have been changed to better reflect the content of the story or to make it more suitable for the WION audience.

Languishing in 14th in the Premier League, Champions League qualification for United is only possible with a Europa League triumph. Sports, Football

Bruno Fernandes struck twice as Manchester United put one foot in the Europa League final with a clinical away performance to beat 10-man Athletic Bilbao 3-0 on Thursday. The fervent home fans were enraged when Athletic defender Daniel Vivian was sent off for pulling back Rasmus Hojlund, and Fernandes slotted home the resulting penalty, after Casemiro had opened the scoring against the run of play in the semi-final first leg. Fernandes rolled in a third before half-time as Ruben Amorim's side moved a step closer to the final, to be held at Athletic's San Mames stadium. The hosts have been dreaming of winning a first European trophy on their own soil, but their hopes were demolished by United's professional display in the north of Spain -- and Athletic's supporters argued, the refereeing. "I think it's the best result (of my tenure) because nobody expected this result -- but you saw two games today," Amorim told reporters. "The first 25 mins, then (another one) after the goal and the sending-off." Languishing in 14th in the Premier League, Champions League qualification for United is only possible with a Europa League triumph, as is access to the £100 million ($133 million) honeypot it entails. Despite regularly crumbling under pressure this season, the Red Devils -- who produced a stunning comeback against Lyon in the quarter-finals -- first survived and then thrived in a hostile environment. "We looked a little bit nervous at times in the first 20 minutes... we weathered the storm and we knew we'd get our chance," Man United's Harry Maguire told TNT Sports. "It was a clinical first half, professional second half... It's a great victory in the end, but there's another big game next week." With May 1 a bank holiday in Spain, the streets of Bilbao were filled with red-and-white striped shirts from the morning onwards, in party mode. The San Mames was rocking as fans greeted their heroes, all of them born or raised in the Basque country, as per the club's century-long policy. Beyond an Alejandro Garnacho goal ruled out for offside, the early stages for United were about gritting their teeth and holding off the hosts. Red card rocks hosts Alex Berenguer forced a smart low save from Manchester United goalkeeper Andre Onana, and Inaki Williams headed narrowly over. Victor Lindelof made a vital block to thwart Berenguer after Nico Williams fed his brother Inaki, who was given too much space on the right wing. The hosts were ascendant, and when former Real Madrid midfielder Casemiro opened the scoring for United, it came as a shock. Just as much of a surprise was the way United created the goal, with centre-back Maguire dribbling down the right flank as Mikel Jaureguizar floundered in his wake. The defender fizzed a cross into the area, which Manuel Ugarte flicked on for Casemiro to nod home from close range. It seemed like a smash-and-grab, but soon United had a second, when Vivian was penalised for pulling back Hojlund as he tried to connect with a cross. The defender was sent off to add insult to injury, and Fernandes stroked home from the spot. "The penalty and the red card... conditioned the game. At 11 against 11, we were doing well," said Athletic coach Ernesto Valverde. United made it three before half-time. Ugarte's clever backheel played Fernandes through,h and he stroked home. Noussair Mazraoui crashed a shot off the crossbar from distance as United almost grabbed a fourth before the break. Athletic fans were further enraged in the second half, waving anything white to show their disgust, when Maroan Sannadi tumbled under pressure from Maguire as he ran towards goal, but no foul was awarded. United largely controlled the game in the second half, but they could not add a fourth despite probing. The second leg takes place next Thursday at Old Trafford, ahead of the final on May 21 against Tottenham or Bodo/Glimt. "At the slightest contact (Hojlund) let himself fall, and the bad luck is that the penalty was given," said Inaki Williams. "We weren't particularly great, so we shouldn't make excuses -- we're three goals down, but we're capable of mounting a comeback." Disclaimer: This story has been published from a news agency feed with minimal edits to adhere to WION's style guide. The headline may have been changed to better reflect the content of the story or to make it more suitable for the WION audience.

Manchester United inch closer to Europa League final after Bilbao bashing

In the Pink city of Jaipur, as fans rushed into the Sawai Mansingh Stadium, eager to watch a thrilling clash between <a href="https://www.wionews.com/search?title=rajasthan+royals" rel="dofollow noopener" target="_blank">Rajasthan Royals</a> (RR) and <a href="https://www.wionews.com/search?title=mumbai+indians" rel="dofollow noopener" target="_blank">Mumbai Indians</a> (MI) on Thursday (May 1) they expected a normal game of IPL, but what they experienced was more than just a cricket match it was a powerful move that stood for a meaningful cause.&nbsp;
The Royals took the field wearing all-pink jerseys. But this wasn't just any fashion statement. Indeed, it was part of their annual &lsquo;Pink Promise&rsquo; match, an effort to support and celebrate women-led change across Rajasthan.
<blockquote class="twitter-tweet publive-iframes-block publive-Twitter-block" contenteditable="false" width="600" height="400" id="PL_blockquote_block-ma5iqual-cspvqjoz-jem97ahh">
All-Pink for the women of Rajasthan, for Pinky Devi, for our <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/PinkPromise?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#PinkPromise</a> 💗 Every six hit will power six homes with solar energy today 🔥 <a href="https://t.co/5ZyYccbza1">pic.twitter.com/5ZyYccbza1</a>
&mdash; Rajasthan Royals (@rajasthanroyals) <a href="https://twitter.com/rajasthanroyals/status/1917949957908337093?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">May 1, 2025</a></blockquote>
<h2>What is the Pink Promise?</h2>
The 'Pink Promise' is an initiative by Rajasthan Royals, supported by their charity wing, the Royal Rajasthan Foundation (RRF). It uses the IPL&rsquo;s popularity to talk about important social issues, especially the empowerment of women in rural areas of Rajasthan.
This year, the Royals pledged to donate ₹100 from every ticket sold for the match against MI to support women-led development projects. Also, money earned from the sale of their special pink jerseys will go towards these causes.
Also Read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/cricket/ipl-2025-who-is-rahu-sharma-the-mi-net-bowler-who-replaced-vignesh-puthur-for-rest-of-season-9022972" rel="dofollow noopener" target="_blank">IPL 2025 | Who is Rahu Sharma - the MI net bowler who replaced Vignesh Puthur for rest of the season</a>
The Royals also promised something unique for every six hits during the match; no matter which team hits it, they would light up six homes in the Sambhar region with solar power. That means every big hit was not just for runs, but also for change.
Last year, with support from Luminous, the Royals lit up over 250 homes in Rajasthan through this campaign, proving to us that cricket can drive real change.
This isn&rsquo;t the first time RR have worn special kits for a cause. Over the years, they&rsquo;ve used their jersey to send powerful messages. The pink jersey, now a yearly tradition, stands for gender equality and support for rural communities
Sports as a medium for social change
Sport has the power to bring people together. It creates moments of unity, excitement, and emotion. That&rsquo;s why using the IPL to raise awareness is so effective.
And RR isn&rsquo;t alone in this journey. Other IPL teams have also stepped up:
<ol>
<li>Royal Challengers Bangalore (RCB) wore blue in 2021 to honour Covid-19 frontline workers, and they still wear green once a year to promote their 'Go Green' campaign.</li>
<li>Delhi Capitals (then Delhi Daredevils) wore lavender in 2015 to raise awareness about cancer, led by cancer survivor <a href="https://www.wionews.com/search?title=yuvraj+singh" rel="dofollow noopener" target="_blank">Yuvraj Singh</a>.</li>
<li>Mumbai Indians (MI) invited 19,000 students from NGOs for their match against Lucknow Super Giants (LSG) as part of their &lsquo;Education and Sports for All&rsquo; initiative with the Reliance Foundation.</li>
<li>&nbsp;In IPL 2022, Delhi Capitals again made headlines by wearing a rainbow jersey to promote inclusivity in cricket and society.</li>
<li>Gujarat Titans (GT) wore lavender jerseys in IPL 2023 to support cancer awareness.</li>
</ol>
With this initiative, Rajsthan Royals aims to maximise this initiative so many people see it, talk about it and lead their way for women empowerment in Rajasthan.

The Rajasthan Royals took the field wearing all-pink jerseys. But this wasn't just any fashion statement. Indeed, it was part of their annual ‘Pink Promise’ match. Sports Cricket

In the Pink city of Jaipur, as fans rushed into the Sawai Mansingh Stadium, eager to watch a thrilling clash between Rajasthan Royals (RR) and Mumbai Indians (MI) on Thursday (May 1) they expected a normal game of IPL, but what they experienced was more than just a cricket match it was a powerful move that stood for a meaningful cause. The Royals took the field wearing all-pink jerseys. But this wasn't just any fashion statement. Indeed, it was part of their annual ‘Pink Promise’ match, an effort to support and celebrate women-led change across Rajasthan. All-Pink for the women of Rajasthan, for Pinky Devi, for our #PinkPromise 💗 Every six hit will power six homes with solar energy today 🔥 pic.twitter.com/5ZyYccbza1 — Rajasthan Royals (@rajasthanroyals) May 1, 2025 What is the Pink Promise? The 'Pink Promise' is an initiative by Rajasthan Royals, supported by their charity wing, the Royal Rajasthan Foundation (RRF). It uses the IPL’s popularity to talk about important social issues, especially the empowerment of women in rural areas of Rajasthan. This year, the Royals pledged to donate ₹100 from every ticket sold for the match against MI to support women-led development projects. Also, money earned from the sale of their special pink jerseys will go towards these causes. Also Read | IPL 2025 | Who is Rahu Sharma - the MI net bowler who replaced Vignesh Puthur for rest of the season The Royals also promised something unique for every six hits during the match; no matter which team hits it, they would light up six homes in the Sambhar region with solar power. That means every big hit was not just for runs, but also for change. Last year, with support from Luminous, the Royals lit up over 250 homes in Rajasthan through this campaign, proving to us that cricket can drive real change. This isn’t the first time RR have worn special kits for a cause. Over the years, they’ve used their jersey to send powerful messages. The pink jersey, now a yearly tradition, stands for gender equality and support for rural communities Sports as a medium for social change Sport has the power to bring people together. It creates moments of unity, excitement, and emotion. That’s why using the IPL to raise awareness is so effective. And RR isn’t alone in this journey. Other IPL teams have also stepped up: Royal Challengers Bangalore (RCB) wore blue in 2021 to honour Covid-19 frontline workers, and they still wear green once a year to promote their 'Go Green' campaign. Delhi Capitals (then Delhi Daredevils) wore lavender in 2015 to raise awareness about cancer, led by cancer survivor Yuvraj Singh. Mumbai Indians (MI) invited 19,000 students from NGOs for their match against Lucknow Super Giants (LSG) as part of their ‘Education and Sports for All’ initiative with the Reliance Foundation. In IPL 2022, Delhi Capitals again made headlines by wearing a rainbow jersey to promote inclusivity in cricket and society. Gujarat Titans (GT) wore lavender jerseys in IPL 2023 to support cancer awareness. With this initiative, Rajsthan Royals aims to maximise this initiative so many people see it, talk about it and lead their way for women empowerment in Rajasthan.

EXPLAINED: What is Rajasthan Royals Pink promise?

The 2025 Kentucky Debry is here and promises another exhilarating race for first of the Triple Crown races. 20 horses will race for the trophy at Churchill Downs in Louisville, Kentucky for the a handsome prize money of $5 million on Saturday (May 3).&nbsp;
<h2>When is the 2025 Kentucky Derby?</h2>
Kentucky Derby takes place on first Saturday of May every year and this year the 151st Kentucky Derby will be on Saturday (May 3).
<h2>When does 2025 Kentucky Derby starts?</h2>
2025 Kentucky Derby post time is Saturday, 6:57 pm ET (Sunday, May 4 at 4:30 am IST).
<h2>What is 2025 Kentucky Derby purse?</h2>
2025 Kentucky Derby has $5 million in purse with the winner taking home $3.1 million.
<h2>Where to watch 2025 Kentucky Derby live?</h2>
2025 Kentucky Derby will be live streamed on NBC and Peacock as well as Fancode mobile app in India.
<h2>Who won 2024 Kentucky Derby?</h2>
Mystik Dan trained by Kenny McPeek and jockey Brian Hernandez Jr. won the 2024 Kentucky Derby&nbsp;
<h2>Which horses are taking part in 2025 Kentucky Derby and what are their odds?</h2>
Have a look at the field for 2025 Kentucky Derby with their odds:
<figure class="tinymce-table-div">
<table border="1" style="border-collapse: collapse; width: 591px; height: 495.708px;"><colgroup><col style="width: 197px;"><col style="width: 166px;"><col style="width: 228px;"></colgroup>
<tbody>
<tr style="height: 22.3958px;">
<td style="height: 22.3958px;">Horse (post number)</td>
<td style="height: 22.3958px;">Trainer</td>
<td style="height: 22.3958px;">Odds (Morning line)</td>
</tr>
<tr style="height: 22.3958px;">
<td style="height: 22.3958px;">Post 1: Citizen Bull</td>
<td style="height: 22.3958px;">Bob Baffert</td>
<td style="height: 22.3958px;">20-1</td>
</tr>
<tr style="height: 22.3958px;">
<td style="height: 22.3958px;">Post 2: Neoequos</td>
<td style="height: 22.3958px;">Saffie A. Joseph Jr.</td>
<td style="height: 22.3958px;">30-1</td>
</tr>
<tr style="height: 22.3958px;">
<td style="height: 22.3958px;">Post 3: Final Gambit</td>
<td style="height: 22.3958px;">Brad H Cox</td>
<td style="height: 22.3958px;">30-1</td>
</tr>
<tr style="height: 22.3958px;">
<td style="height: 22.3958px;">Post 4: Rodriguez</td>
<td style="height: 22.3958px;">Bob Baffert</td>
<td style="height: 22.3958px;">12-1</td>
</tr>
<tr style="height: 22.3958px;">
<td style="height: 22.3958px;">Post 5: American Promise</td>
<td style="height: 22.3958px;">D. Wayne Lukas</td>
<td style="height: 22.3958px;">30-1</td>
</tr>
<tr style="height: 22.3958px;">
<td style="height: 22.3958px;">Post 6: Admire Daytona&nbsp;</td>
<td style="height: 22.3958px;">Yukihiro Kato</td>
<td style="height: 22.3958px;">30-1</td>
</tr>
<tr style="height: 22.3958px;">
<td style="height: 22.3958px;">Post 7: Luxor Cafe</td>
<td style="height: 22.3958px;">Noriyuki Hori</td>
<td style="height: 22.3958px;">15-1</td>
</tr>
<tr style="height: 22.3958px;">
<td style="height: 22.3958px;">Post 8: Journalism&nbsp;</td>
<td style="height: 22.3958px;">Michael W. McCarthy</td>
<td style="height: 22.3958px;">3-1</td>
</tr>
<tr style="height: 22.3958px;">
<td style="height: 22.3958px;">Post 9: Burnham Square</td>
<td style="height: 22.3958px;">Ian R. Wilkes</td>
<td style="height: 22.3958px;">12-1</td>
</tr>
<tr style="height: 24.6979px;">
<td style="height: 24.6979px;">Post 10: Grande</td>
<td style="height: 24.6979px;">Todd A. Pletcher</td>
<td style="height: 24.6979px;">10-1</td>
</tr>
<tr style="height: 24.6979px;">
<td style="height: 24.6979px;">Post 11: Flying Mohawk</td>
<td style="height: 24.6979px;">D. Whitworth Beckman</td>
<td style="height: 24.6979px;">30-1</td>
</tr>
<tr style="height: 24.6979px;">
<td style="height: 24.6979px;">Post 12: East Avenue</td>
<td style="height: 24.6979px;">Brendon P. Walsh</td>
<td style="height: 24.6979px;">20-1</td>
</tr>
<tr style="height: 24.6979px;">
<td style="height: 24.6979px;">Post 13: Publisher</td>
<td style="height: 24.6979px;">Steven M. Asmussen</td>
<td style="height: 24.6979px;">20-1</td>
</tr>
<tr style="height: 24.6979px;">
<td style="height: 24.6979px;">Post 14: Tiztastic</td>
<td style="height: 24.6979px;">Steven M. Asmussen</td>
<td style="height: 24.6979px;">20-1</td>
</tr>
<tr style="height: 24.6979px;">
<td style="height: 24.6979px;">Post 15: Render Judgement</td>
<td style="height: 24.6979px;">Kenny McPeek</td>
<td style="height: 24.6979px;">30-1</td>
</tr>
<tr style="height: 24.6979px;">
<td style="height: 24.6979px;">Post 16: Coal Battle</td>
<td style="height: 24.6979px;">Lonnie Briley</td>
<td style="height: 24.6979px;">30-1</td>
</tr>
<tr style="height: 24.6979px;">
<td style="height: 24.6979px;">Post 17: Sandman</td>
<td style="height: 24.6979px;">Mark E. Casse</td>
<td style="height: 24.6979px;">6-1</td>
</tr>
<tr style="height: 24.6979px;">
<td style="height: 24.6979px;">Post 18: Sovereignty</td>
<td style="height: 24.6979px;">Willia I. Mott</td>
<td style="height: 24.6979px;">5-1</td>
</tr>
<tr style="height: 24.6979px;">
<td style="height: 24.6979px;">Post 19: Chunk of Gold</td>
<td style="height: 24.6979px;">Eathan W. West</td>
<td style="height: 24.6979px;">30-1</td>
</tr>
<tr style="height: 24.7708px;">
<td style="height: 24.7708px;">Post 20: Owen Almighty</td>
<td style="height: 24.7708px;">Brian Lynch</td>
<td style="height: 24.7708px;">30-1</td>
</tr>
</tbody>
</table>
</figure>
&nbsp;
&nbsp;

2025 Kentucky Derby: 20 horses will race for the trophy at Churchill Downs in Louisville, Kentucky for the a handsome prize money of $5 million on Saturday (May 3). sports

The 2025 Kentucky Debry is here and promises another exhilarating race for first of the Triple Crown races. 20 horses will race for the trophy at Churchill Downs in Louisville, Kentucky for the a handsome prize money of $5 million on Saturday (May 3). When is the 2025 Kentucky Derby? Kentucky Derby takes place on first Saturday of May every year and this year the 151st Kentucky Derby will be on Saturday (May 3). When does 2025 Kentucky Derby starts? 2025 Kentucky Derby post time is Saturday, 6:57 pm ET (Sunday, May 4 at 4:30 am IST). What is 2025 Kentucky Derby purse? 2025 Kentucky Derby has $5 million in purse with the winner taking home $3.1 million. Where to watch 2025 Kentucky Derby live? 2025 Kentucky Derby will be live streamed on NBC and Peacock as well as Fancode mobile app in India. Who won 2024 Kentucky Derby? Mystik Dan trained by Kenny McPeek and jockey Brian Hernandez Jr. won the 2024 Kentucky Derby Which horses are taking part in 2025 Kentucky Derby and what are their odds? Have a look at the field for 2025 Kentucky Derby with their odds: Horse (post number) Trainer Odds (Morning line) Post 1: Citizen Bull Bob Baffert 20-1 Post 2: Neoequos Saffie A. Joseph Jr. 30-1 Post 3: Final Gambit Brad H Cox 30-1 Post 4: Rodriguez Bob Baffert 12-1 Post 5: American Promise D. Wayne Lukas 30-1 Post 6: Admire Daytona Yukihiro Kato 30-1 Post 7: Luxor Cafe Noriyuki Hori 15-1 Post 8: Journalism Michael W. McCarthy 3-1 Post 9: Burnham Square Ian R. Wilkes 12-1 Post 10: Grande Todd A. Pletcher 10-1 Post 11: Flying Mohawk D. Whitworth Beckman 30-1 Post 12: East Avenue Brendon P. Walsh 20-1 Post 13: Publisher Steven M. Asmussen 20-1 Post 14: Tiztastic Steven M. Asmussen 20-1 Post 15: Render Judgement Kenny McPeek 30-1 Post 16: Coal Battle Lonnie Briley 30-1 Post 17: Sandman Mark E. Casse 6-1 Post 18: Sovereignty Willia I. Mott 5-1 Post 19: Chunk of Gold Eathan W. West 30-1 Post 20: Owen Almighty Brian Lynch 30-1

2025 Kentucky Derby: Horses, Odds, Posts and all you need to know

The Derby weekend is here and so is Kentucky Oaks 2025 which is set to take place on Friday (May 2) at the famous Churchill Downs race course. A total of 14 horse will try to win $1.5 million in prize money as well as a garland of lilies called 'lilies for fillies.'
<h2>What is Kentucky Oaks?</h2>
Kentucky Oaks is one of the most famous races for 3-year-old female horses of fillies as they try and prove their superiority at Churchill Downs race course.
<h2>When is the Kentucky Oaks 2025?</h2>
Kentucky Oaks takes pace one day before the Kentucky Derby which is scheduled for first Saturday of May every year. This year Kentucky Oaks will be on Friday (May 2).
<h2>What is Kentucky Oaks prize money?</h2>
The total purse of Kentucky Oaks is $1.5 million with the winner getting about $850,000.
<h2>Which horses are taking part in Kentucky Oaks 2025 and what are their odds?</h2>
Have a look at the field for Kentucky Oaks 2025 with their odds:
<figure class="tinymce-table-div">
<table border="1" class="center" style="border-collapse: collapse; width: 538px; height: 292px; border-width: 1px;"><colgroup><col style="width: 179px;"><col style="width: 179px;"><col style="width: 179px;"></colgroup>
<tbody>
<tr>
<td>Horse</td>
<td>Trainer</td>
<td>Odds</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>Early On</td>
<td>Saffie A. Joserph Jr.</td>
<td>30-1</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>Simply Joking</td>
<td>D. Withworth Beckman</td>
<td>10-1</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>Fondly</td>
<td>H. Graham Motion</td>
<td>30-1</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>Drexel Hill</td>
<td>D. Withworth Beckman</td>
<td>30-1</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>Quickick</td>
<td>Thomas M. Amoss</td>
<td>30-1</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>Ballerina D'oro</td>
<td>Chad C. Brown</td>
<td>10-1</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>LA Cara</td>
<td>Mark E. Casse</td>
<td>6-1</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>Five G</td>
<td>George Weaver</td>
<td>12-1</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>Tenma</td>
<td>Bob Baffers</td>
<td>12-1</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>Take Charge Milady</td>
<td>Kenny McPeek</td>
<td>12-1</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>Good Cheer</td>
<td>Brad H Cox</td>
<td>6-5</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>Anna's Promise</td>
<td>Carlos A David</td>
<td>30-1</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>Bless the Broken</td>
<td>William Walden</td>
<td>30-1</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>Quietside</td>
<td>John A Ortiz</td>
<td>8-1</td>
</tr>
</tbody>
</table>
</figure>
&nbsp;
&nbsp;&nbsp;

Kentucky Oaks takes pace one day before the Kentucky Derby which is scheduled for first Saturday of May every year. This year Kentucky Oaks will be on Friday (May 2). Sports

The Derby weekend is here and so is Kentucky Oaks 2025 which is set to take place on Friday (May 2) at the famous Churchill Downs race course. A total of 14 horse will try to win $1.5 million in prize money as well as a garland of lilies called 'lilies for fillies.' What is Kentucky Oaks? Kentucky Oaks is one of the most famous races for 3-year-old female horses of fillies as they try and prove their superiority at Churchill Downs race course. When is the Kentucky Oaks 2025? Kentucky Oaks takes pace one day before the Kentucky Derby which is scheduled for first Saturday of May every year. This year Kentucky Oaks will be on Friday (May 2). What is Kentucky Oaks prize money? The total purse of Kentucky Oaks is $1.5 million with the winner getting about $850,000. Which horses are taking part in Kentucky Oaks 2025 and what are their odds? Have a look at the field for Kentucky Oaks 2025 with their odds: Horse Trainer Odds Early On Saffie A. Joserph Jr. 30-1 Simply Joking D. Withworth Beckman 10-1 Fondly H. Graham Motion 30-1 Drexel Hill D. Withworth Beckman 30-1 Quickick Thomas M. Amoss 30-1 Ballerina D'oro Chad C. Brown 10-1 LA Cara Mark E. Casse 6-1 Five G George Weaver 12-1 Tenma Bob Baffers 12-1 Take Charge Milady Kenny McPeek 12-1 Good Cheer Brad H Cox 6-5 Anna's Promise Carlos A David 30-1 Bless the Broken William Walden 30-1 Quietside John A Ortiz 8-1

Kentucky Oaks 2025: Horses, odds, prize money and all you need to know

A year after leading <a href="https://www.wionews.com/search?title=kolkata+knight+riders" rel="dofollow noopener" target="_blank">Kolkata Knight Riders </a>(KKR) to their third IPL title, <a href="https://www.wionews.com/search?title=kolkata+knight+riders" rel="dofollow noopener" target="_blank">Punjab Kings</a> (PBKS) skipper <a href="https://www.wionews.com/search?title=shreyas+iyer" rel="dofollow noopener" target="_blank">Shreyas Iyer </a>is now earning praise from head coach Ricky Ponting for his calmness, maturity, and improved game awareness. The duo, who previously worked together at Delhi Capitals (DC), have reunited at PBKS and are aiming for another playoffs spot this season.
Speaking after Punjab's win over Chennai Super Kings (CSK)&nbsp; on Wednesday (Apr 30) at Chepauk, Ponting highlighted Iyer&rsquo;s evolution. &ldquo;He&rsquo;s a lot more confident now. That belief comes with experience,&rdquo; Ponting said. &ldquo;He understands the game better than ever and is calm in pressure situations, a key trait in T20s.&rdquo;
Also Read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/pahalgam-terror-attack-how-much-lower-will-you-go-dhawan-slams-pakistan-shahid-afridi-for-rhetorical-anti-indian-army-comments-9014081" rel="dofollow noopener" target="_blank">Pahalgam terror attack | 'How much lower will you go:' Dhawan slams Shahid Afridi for 'pointless' anti-Indian Army comments</a>
<h2>Iyer plans wicket of MS Dhoni</h2>
That calmness was seen when Iyer brought Yuzvendra Chahal to bowl at <a href="https://www.wionews.com/search?title=ms+dhoni" rel="dofollow noopener" target="_blank">MS Dhoni</a>, who doesn&rsquo;t have a great record against leg-spinners in the IPL. In the 19th over of CSK&rsquo;s innings, Dhoni hit Chahal for a six over long-on, but on the very next ball, he mistimed a shot and was caught at long-off for 11. Chahal then capitalised on Dhoni's wicket, completing a hat-trick and turning the game in Punjab's favour.
Iyer also led from the front with the bat, scoring a captain&rsquo;s knock of 72 off 41 balls. He picked up pace from 28 off 23 to reach his half-century in just 32 balls. Ponting was full of praise: &ldquo;He&rsquo;s mature, he communicates well with the team, and everyone enjoys working with him. He wanted to finish the game himself, but it was still a top innings.&rdquo;
Iyer has also worked on a long-time weakness against the short ball. Once uncomfortable, he now confidently pulls and hooks. Ponting credited his self-made improvement: &ldquo;He&rsquo;s opened up his stance, sees the ball better, and is accessing those deliveries more easily. It&rsquo;s all his own work.&rdquo;
Former India coach Ravi Shastri also noticed the change, pointing out Iyer&rsquo;s upright stance and better back-and-across movement, which have helped expand his shot range.
With three games left in Dharamsala, a venue where PBKS haven&rsquo;t won in two seasons, Ponting remains hopeful. &ldquo;It&rsquo;s our home ground. We had a good pre-season camp there. I think we&rsquo;ll do well.&rdquo;
PBKS, currently second on the points table, are set to face Lucknow Super Giants (LSG), Delhi Capitals (DC), and Mumbai Indians (MI) in Dharamsala on 04th, 08th and 11th May respectively. Shreyas and his team will look to win these games and aim for a top-two finish in the IPL 2025 playoffs.

After Punjab's win over CSK on Wednesday (Apr 30), Shreyas Iyer earned praise from Ricky Ponting for his calm captaincy in IPL 2025. Cricket Sports

A year after leading Kolkata Knight Riders (KKR) to their third IPL title, Punjab Kings (PBKS) skipper Shreyas Iyer is now earning praise from head coach Ricky Ponting for his calmness, maturity, and improved game awareness. The duo, who previously worked together at Delhi Capitals (DC), have reunited at PBKS and are aiming for another playoffs spot this season. Speaking after Punjab's win over Chennai Super Kings (CSK) on Wednesday (Apr 30) at Chepauk, Ponting highlighted Iyer’s evolution. “He’s a lot more confident now. That belief comes with experience,” Ponting said. “He understands the game better than ever and is calm in pressure situations, a key trait in T20s.” Also Read: Pahalgam terror attack | 'How much lower will you go:' Dhawan slams Shahid Afridi for 'pointless' anti-Indian Army comments Iyer plans wicket of MS Dhoni That calmness was seen when Iyer brought Yuzvendra Chahal to bowl at MS Dhoni, who doesn’t have a great record against leg-spinners in the IPL. In the 19th over of CSK’s innings, Dhoni hit Chahal for a six over long-on, but on the very next ball, he mistimed a shot and was caught at long-off for 11. Chahal then capitalised on Dhoni's wicket, completing a hat-trick and turning the game in Punjab's favour. Iyer also led from the front with the bat, scoring a captain’s knock of 72 off 41 balls. He picked up pace from 28 off 23 to reach his half-century in just 32 balls. Ponting was full of praise: “He’s mature, he communicates well with the team, and everyone enjoys working with him. He wanted to finish the game himself, but it was still a top innings.” Iyer has also worked on a long-time weakness against the short ball. Once uncomfortable, he now confidently pulls and hooks. Ponting credited his self-made improvement: “He’s opened up his stance, sees the ball better, and is accessing those deliveries more easily. It’s all his own work.” Former India coach Ravi Shastri also noticed the change, pointing out Iyer’s upright stance and better back-and-across movement, which have helped expand his shot range. With three games left in Dharamsala, a venue where PBKS haven’t won in two seasons, Ponting remains hopeful. “It’s our home ground. We had a good pre-season camp there. I think we’ll do well.” PBKS, currently second on the points table, are set to face Lucknow Super Giants (LSG), Delhi Capitals (DC), and Mumbai Indians (MI) in Dharamsala on 04th, 08th and 11th May respectively. Shreyas and his team will look to win these games and aim for a top-two finish in the IPL 2025 playoffs.

IPL 2025: Ricky Ponting praises Shreyas Iyer's calm captaincy and batting technique

The Premier League on Tuesday (April 29) has announced the opening of an office in India. Based in Mumbai, the new office will build on the Premier League's longstanding work to engage local fans and partners and promote football in India, while supporting the continued growth of the League and its clubs.
<h2 class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify;">Premier League to open India office</h2>
The Premier League has a long history of working in India to engage its millions of passionate fans and football communities. At a grassroots level, the League has been running its Premier Skills programme in partnership with the British Council to support the development of the community football workforce since 2007. Over the past 18 years, the programme has been delivered in more than 18 Indian states, supporting more than 7,300 coaches, referees and educators, benefiting 124,000 young people.
At an elite level, the Premier League has been working closely with the Indian Super League (ISL) since 2014, which has seen the Premier League share knowledge and expertise across all areas of the elite game, including governance, youth, coach and referee development. In 2019, the Premier League launched the Next Gen Cup - an elite international youth tournament organised in collaboration with the ISL and Reliance Foundation to support the development of youth talent. The sixth edition of the tournament will take place in Mumbai in May 2025 and will see ISL youth teams take on U19 teams from Premier League clubs.
The Premier League India office will further underpin the League's commitment to supporting the development of football across India at both elite and grassroots level through strengthened collaboration with football authorities and governing bodies. The office will also focus on creating more ways to engage directly with fans in the region through events and partnership activities, working closely with the League's longstanding broadcast partner JioStar.
Premier League Chief Executive Richard Masters said: "We and our clubs have a fantastic and knowledgeable fanbase in India, and we know football continues to grow in popularity. We are proud of our longstanding commitment to India, having worked to deliver community football programmes for 18 years and, more recently, our partnership with the Indian Super League.
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"Opening this office marks a significant milestone for the Premier League. It will allow us to operate more effectively locally as we build on our existing work to establish more ways to strengthen our relationship with fans, JioStar and other partners. We are looking forward to the opportunities it will create in the region."
In 2019, the Premier League opened its first international office in Singapore, primarily established to fight piracy of Premier League content and support broadcast partners. In July 2023, the League opened its office in New York to continue to develop fan engagement opportunities in the United States, working closely with its longstanding broadcast partner NBC Sports. In October 2024, the Premier League announced the opening of an office in Beijing to continue to build on the work in the region to engage fans and partners and support the development of the game locally.

The Premier League has a long history of working in India to engage its millions of passionate fans and football communities and set to open its office in India. Sports

The Premier League on Tuesday (April 29) has announced the opening of an office in India. Based in Mumbai, the new office will build on the Premier League's longstanding work to engage local fans and partners and promote football in India, while supporting the continued growth of the League and its clubs. Premier League to open India office The Premier League has a long history of working in India to engage its millions of passionate fans and football communities. At a grassroots level, the League has been running its Premier Skills programme in partnership with the British Council to support the development of the community football workforce since 2007. Over the past 18 years, the programme has been delivered in more than 18 Indian states, supporting more than 7,300 coaches, referees and educators, benefiting 124,000 young people. At an elite level, the Premier League has been working closely with the Indian Super League (ISL) since 2014, which has seen the Premier League share knowledge and expertise across all areas of the elite game, including governance, youth, coach and referee development. In 2019, the Premier League launched the Next Gen Cup - an elite international youth tournament organised in collaboration with the ISL and Reliance Foundation to support the development of youth talent. The sixth edition of the tournament will take place in Mumbai in May 2025 and will see ISL youth teams take on U19 teams from Premier League clubs. The Premier League India office will further underpin the League's commitment to supporting the development of football across India at both elite and grassroots level through strengthened collaboration with football authorities and governing bodies. The office will also focus on creating more ways to engage directly with fans in the region through events and partnership activities, working closely with the League's longstanding broadcast partner JioStar. Premier League Chief Executive Richard Masters said: "We and our clubs have a fantastic and knowledgeable fanbase in India, and we know football continues to grow in popularity. We are proud of our longstanding commitment to India, having worked to deliver community football programmes for 18 years and, more recently, our partnership with the Indian Super League. ALSO READ | Underfire Real Madrid boss Carlo Ancelotti set to become new Brazil national team manager - Report "Opening this office marks a significant milestone for the Premier League. It will allow us to operate more effectively locally as we build on our existing work to establish more ways to strengthen our relationship with fans, JioStar and other partners. We are looking forward to the opportunities it will create in the region." In 2019, the Premier League opened its first international office in Singapore, primarily established to fight piracy of Premier League content and support broadcast partners. In July 2023, the League opened its office in New York to continue to develop fan engagement opportunities in the United States, working closely with its longstanding broadcast partner NBC Sports. In October 2024, the Premier League announced the opening of an office in Beijing to continue to build on the work in the region to engage fans and partners and support the development of the game locally.

Premier League confirms Mumbai office, vows to promote football in India

Gujarat Titans star batter Sai Sudharsan said that they cold have bowled better in the powerplay than they did after losing against Rajasthan Royals (RR) by on Monday (Apr 28) in IPL 2025. The loss will sting a lot for GT as it just came in 15.5 overs for a 210-run target with RR still having eight wickets in hand when it ended.
"We could have reacted well. The way they started the powerplay was brilliant, but we could have reacted well and had better plans," said Sudharsan after the game.
Also Read - <a href="https://www.wionews.com/cricket/from-doubt-to-destiny-suryavanshis-blazing-35-ball-ton-in-ipl-2025-leaves-gt-skipper-gill-in-awe-ajay-jadeja-calls-it-9013761" rel="dofollow">From doubt to destiny: Suryavanshi&rsquo;s blazing 35-ball IPL ton leaves GT skipper Gill in awe, Ajay Jadeja calls it...</a>
"Maybe the lengths, and we could have been aware of the wicket, how it reacted to the ball, which they bowled in the first innings. Maybe we could have taken cues from that and executed that. Maybe we could have gone wider, we could have not bowled into his arc, maybe we could have done that and things would have been different," he added.
GT indeed lost the game in powerplay itself as Royals opening pair of 23-year-old Yashasvi Jaiswal and 14-year-old Vaibhav Suryavanshi smashed 87 runs. GT had a chance on the first ball of the second over when Jaiswal miscued a shot but only for Jos Buttler to drop it at point despite calling and running for it.
In the chase, Suryavanshi was especially effective as he became the youngest T20 centurion ever which he completed in record 35 balls. Suryavanshi's effort is just second to Chris Gayle (30 balls) in IPL and fastest for an Indian.
The chase by Rajasthan Royals was also the fastest in the T20 history for 200-plus-run target. With the win Rajasthan snapped their five-game losing streak, three out of which they should have won while chasing.

The 210-run chase by Rajasthan Royals vs GT in 15.5 overs in IPL 2025 was also the fastest in the T20 history for 200-plus-run target. cricket sports

Gujarat Titans star batter Sai Sudharsan said that they cold have bowled better in the powerplay than they did after losing against Rajasthan Royals (RR) by on Monday (Apr 28) in IPL 2025. The loss will sting a lot for GT as it just came in 15.5 overs for a 210-run target with RR still having eight wickets in hand when it ended. "We could have reacted well. The way they started the powerplay was brilliant, but we could have reacted well and had better plans," said Sudharsan after the game. Also Read - From doubt to destiny: Suryavanshi’s blazing 35-ball IPL ton leaves GT skipper Gill in awe, Ajay Jadeja calls it... "Maybe the lengths, and we could have been aware of the wicket, how it reacted to the ball, which they bowled in the first innings. Maybe we could have taken cues from that and executed that. Maybe we could have gone wider, we could have not bowled into his arc, maybe we could have done that and things would have been different," he added. GT indeed lost the game in powerplay itself as Royals opening pair of 23-year-old Yashasvi Jaiswal and 14-year-old Vaibhav Suryavanshi smashed 87 runs. GT had a chance on the first ball of the second over when Jaiswal miscued a shot but only for Jos Buttler to drop it at point despite calling and running for it. In the chase, Suryavanshi was especially effective as he became the youngest T20 centurion ever which he completed in record 35 balls. Suryavanshi's effort is just second to Chris Gayle (30 balls) in IPL and fastest for an Indian. The chase by Rajasthan Royals was also the fastest in the T20 history for 200-plus-run target. With the win Rajasthan snapped their five-game losing streak, three out of which they should have won while chasing.

IPL 2025 | 'Fastest 200+ run-chase in T20 history:' Sudharsan says GT 'could have taken cues' from RR bowling

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/tags/real-madrid" rel="dofollow">Real Madrid</a> defender <a href="https://www.wionews.com/tags/antonio-rudiger" rel="dofollow">Antonio Rudiger</a>&nbsp;"has to change and he knows it himself", Rudi Voeller, the German national team's sporting director, said Monday, following the player's behaviour in the Copa del Rey final.<o:p></o:p>
"Toni is an exceptional footballer and a very emotional guy, a fighter on the pitch. He has to stay that way. But in this case, he and some of his teammates let themselves be influenced too much by the extremely tense atmosphere around the club," Voeller told German news agency SID, a subsidiary of AFP.<o:p></o:p>
The centre-back, substituted in extra-time and in the final stages of Barcelona's 3-2 Clasico victory, threw something at referee Ricardo de Burgos Bengoetxea in the final seconds.<o:p></o:p>
Also read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/football/copa-del-rey-final-barcelona-edge-real-madrid-in-extra-time-to-lift-trophy-9006264" rel="dofollow">Copa del Rey final: Barcelona edge Real Madrid in extra-time to lift trophy</a> 
Rudiger had to be held back from confronting the official by team-mates and staff, was shown a red card, with fellow Real Madrid players Lucas Vazquez and Jude Bellingham also dismissed at the end of the game.<o:p></o:p>
Before the final, Bengoetxea and VAR referee Pablo Gonzalez Fuertes complained about attacks from Real Madrid's club television channel on officials this season.<o:p></o:p>
"This can't happen. Especially not as a player for the German national team. He has to change that and he knows it himself, as his public reaction shows," added Voeller, a former Germany coach.<o:p></o:p>
Rudiger faces a suspension of between four and 12 matches under Spanish Football Association rules. <o:p></o:p>
"There's definitely no excuse for my behaviour last night. I'm very sorry for that," Rudiger posted on social media on Sunday. "After 111 minutes, I was not able to help my team anymore, and before the final whistle, I did a mistake. Sorry again to the referee and to everyone I have disappointed last night."<o:p></o:p>
<blockquote class="twitter-tweet publive-iframes-block publive-Twitter-block" contenteditable="false" width="600" height="400" id="PL_blockquote_block-ma17p727-cftsqc8b-92h49jqg">
Message from Antonio Rudiger <a href="https://t.co/B3bCc2Dpwi">pic.twitter.com/B3bCc2Dpwi</a>
&mdash; Real Madrid Info &sup3;⁶ (@RMadridInfo) <a href="https://twitter.com/RMadridInfo/status/1916418646416490780?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">April 27, 2025</a></blockquote>
Also read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/real-madrid-defender-antonio-rudiger-issues-public-apology-for-throwing-object-at-copa-final-referee-9007801" rel="dofollow">Real Madrid defender Rudiger issues public apology for throwing object at Copa final referee</a> 
Voeller said the German international contacted him and Germany coach Julian Nagelsmann on Sunday. "We discussed the situation for a long time," said Voeller.&nbsp;<o:p></o:p>
He said an exchange also took place internally within the German Football Association (DFB).<o:p></o:p>
"Toni is an excellent player, but as a national team player, he must also show class in his behaviour. He rightly demands respect for himself. This respect he must also show to others without exception," concluded Voeller.<o:p></o:p>
SID said Rudiger&nbsp;is not expected to be sanctioned by the DFB. <o:p></o:p>
Germany hosts the final four of the Nations League, and will play a semi-final against Portugal on June 4 in Munich and a final or third-place play-off four days later.<o:p></o:p>
Disclaimer:&nbsp;This story has been published from a news agency feed with minimal edits to adhere to WION's style guide. The headline may have been changed to better reflect the content of the story or to make it more suitable for the WION audience.

Rudiger had to be held back from confronting the official by teammates and staff, was shown a red card, with fellow Real Madrid players also dismissed. Sports, Football

Real Madrid defender Antonio Rudiger "has to change and he knows it himself", Rudi Voeller, the German national team's sporting director, said Monday, following the player's behaviour in the Copa del Rey final. "Toni is an exceptional footballer and a very emotional guy, a fighter on the pitch. He has to stay that way. But in this case, he and some of his teammates let themselves be influenced too much by the extremely tense atmosphere around the club," Voeller told German news agency SID, a subsidiary of AFP. The centre-back, substituted in extra-time and in the final stages of Barcelona's 3-2 Clasico victory, threw something at referee Ricardo de Burgos Bengoetxea in the final seconds. Also read | Copa del Rey final: Barcelona edge Real Madrid in extra-time to lift trophy Rudiger had to be held back from confronting the official by team-mates and staff, was shown a red card, with fellow Real Madrid players Lucas Vazquez and Jude Bellingham also dismissed at the end of the game. Before the final, Bengoetxea and VAR referee Pablo Gonzalez Fuertes complained about attacks from Real Madrid's club television channel on officials this season. "This can't happen. Especially not as a player for the German national team. He has to change that and he knows it himself, as his public reaction shows," added Voeller, a former Germany coach. Rudiger faces a suspension of between four and 12 matches under Spanish Football Association rules. "There's definitely no excuse for my behaviour last night. I'm very sorry for that," Rudiger posted on social media on Sunday. "After 111 minutes, I was not able to help my team anymore, and before the final whistle, I did a mistake. Sorry again to the referee and to everyone I have disappointed last night." Message from Antonio Rudiger pic.twitter.com/B3bCc2Dpwi — Real Madrid Info ³⁶ (@RMadridInfo) April 27, 2025 Also read | Real Madrid defender Rudiger issues public apology for throwing object at Copa final referee Voeller said the German international contacted him and Germany coach Julian Nagelsmann on Sunday. "We discussed the situation for a long time," said Voeller. He said an exchange also took place internally within the German Football Association (DFB). "Toni is an excellent player, but as a national team player, he must also show class in his behaviour. He rightly demands respect for himself. This respect he must also show to others without exception," concluded Voeller. SID said Rudiger is not expected to be sanctioned by the DFB. Germany hosts the final four of the Nations League, and will play a semi-final against Portugal on June 4 in Munich and a final or third-place play-off four days later. Disclaimer: This story has been published from a news agency feed with minimal edits to adhere to WION's style guide. The headline may have been changed to better reflect the content of the story or to make it more suitable for the WION audience.

Antonio Rudiger 'must show respect to others,' says Germany boss Voeller

World number one <a href="https://www.wionews.com/tags/jannik-sinner" rel="dofollow">Jannik Sinner</a> announced on Monday the creation of a foundation in his name aimed at "empowering children through education and sports", six days out from the Italian's return to action after a doping ban.<o:p></o:p>
The Jannik Sinner Foundation "will support sports programmes, school projects and community initiatives to make sports and education more accessible to the next generation" in Italy and abroad.<o:p></o:p>
"For me, it's an honour to support children and young athletes," said Sinner in a statement. "Sports have taught me invaluable lessons: discipline, resilience and the courage to stay true to myself.&nbsp;
<o:p></o:p>"Lessons that I believe are worth sharing. Through our work, we want to show kids what's possible, not just in sports but in life."<o:p></o:p>
<blockquote class="twitter-tweet publive-iframes-block publive-Twitter-block" contenteditable="false" width="600" height="400" id="PL_blockquote_block-ma16r35x-nyqrkuua-fshh0g4z">
Launching the Jannik Sinner Foundation<a href="https://t.co/s1nozJsWtg">https://t.co/s1nozJsWtg</a> <a href="https://t.co/pUVakDnEXC">pic.twitter.com/pUVakDnEXC</a>
&mdash; Jannik Sinner (@janniksin) <a href="https://twitter.com/janniksin/status/1916805300784419195?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">April 28, 2025</a></blockquote>
The foundation will be chaired by Sinner's manager Alex Vittur, and Formula One supremo Stefano Domenicali will sit on the board of directors.<o:p></o:p>
Sinner, 23, has been out of action since accepting a three-month doping ban in February after twice testing positive for traces of clostebol in March last year.<o:p></o:p>
The three-time Grand Slam winner is due to return before the Rome Open, which runs from May 7-18.<o:p></o:p>
Disclaimer:&nbsp;This story has been published from a news agency feed with minimal edits to adhere to WION's style guide. The headline may have been changed to better reflect the content of the story or to make it more suitable for the WION audience.

Sinner has been out of action since accepting a three-month doping ban in February after twice testing positive for traces of clostebol in March last year. Sports, Tennis

World number one Jannik Sinner announced on Monday the creation of a foundation in his name aimed at "empowering children through education and sports", six days out from the Italian's return to action after a doping ban. The Jannik Sinner Foundation "will support sports programmes, school projects and community initiatives to make sports and education more accessible to the next generation" in Italy and abroad. "For me, it's an honour to support children and young athletes," said Sinner in a statement. "Sports have taught me invaluable lessons: discipline, resilience and the courage to stay true to myself. "Lessons that I believe are worth sharing. Through our work, we want to show kids what's possible, not just in sports but in life." Launching the Jannik Sinner Foundationhttps://t.co/s1nozJsWtg pic.twitter.com/pUVakDnEXC — Jannik Sinner (@janniksin) April 28, 2025 The foundation will be chaired by Sinner's manager Alex Vittur, and Formula One supremo Stefano Domenicali will sit on the board of directors. Sinner, 23, has been out of action since accepting a three-month doping ban in February after twice testing positive for traces of clostebol in March last year. The three-time Grand Slam winner is due to return before the Rome Open, which runs from May 7-18. Disclaimer: This story has been published from a news agency feed with minimal edits to adhere to WION's style guide. The headline may have been changed to better reflect the content of the story or to make it more suitable for the WION audience.

Suspended world number one Jannik Sinner launches foundation supporting children

The cash-rich <a href="https://www.wionews.com/tags/ipl" rel="dofollow">Indian Premier League</a> will expand from the 2028 season onwards, IPL chairman Arun Dhumal hinted, per the latest reports. The <a href="https://www.wionews.com/tags/bcci" rel="dofollow">BCCI</a> is considering a full-home-and-away format from the next media-rights cycle, starting in 2028, expanding the number of matches to 94 a season, but without adding new teams to the stacked roster.
The league expanded to its current 74-match format in 2022 after the IPL introduced the <a href="https://www.wionews.com/tags/gujarat-titans" rel="dofollow">Gujarat Titans (GT)</a> and <a href="https://www.wionews.com/tags/lucknow-super-giants" rel="dofollow">Lucknow Super Giants (LSG)</a>. Meanwhile, there were initial plans to grow it to 84 matches a season from this year onwards, but the tournament's schedule crunch and broadcasters&rsquo; restriction surrounding plenty of double headers delayed it; however, the league expansion remains part of the plan.
Per a report in ESPNcricinfo, the IPL window (in the FTP) for the next two years is already locked from mid-March till May end; Dhumal&rsquo;s latest remarks suggest that the Indian Cricket Board is considering further expanding it to 94 matches, starting in 2028. Although the IPL already consumes around two months of the international cricket calendar, should the BCCI and IPL accept the said model, they would need to add another two weeks.
"Definitely, that might be an opportunity," Dhumal said.&nbsp;
"We've been discussing in ICC, we've been discussing in-house in BCCI. Given how the interest of the fans is changing with regard to bilateral and ICC events, in regard to franchise cricket and T20 cricket, we'll have to talk more seriously about it and see how we can create maximum value for the stakeholders of the game.
"Ideally, we'd want a larger window, or to maybe go on from 74 to 84 or 94 at some point&hellip; So that every team gets to play against every team home and away, for that, you need 94 games,&rdquo; he continued.&nbsp;
<h2>Broadcasters in a tight spot over new module</h2>
The boards will discuss IPL window duration for the upcoming FTP next year, with officials at multiple franchises expressing keenness in watching the league grow to 94 matches a season; however, the expansion would depend on the broadcaster's interest after the Reliance-Disney merger (to create JioStar) in India.&nbsp;
Considering the TV and streaming numbers usually dip midway through an IPL season, which the broadcasters attribute to viewer fatigue, the expansion would increase the double-headers from 12 (currently) to whatever number from the 2028 season onwards.
Although the growing interest from investors in this new module could push the BCCI to make rapid changes, the board has decided against growing it regarding the number of teams.&nbsp;
"Ten is a good number for now," Dhumal said. "Paramount is the interest in the tournament and the quality of cricket that we play&hellip; I don't see any scope in the short term. Going forward, with how this whole landscape evolves, we'll take a call accordingly."

Although the IPL consumes around two months of the international cricket calendar, they would need to add another two weeks to it should that happen. Sports, Cricket

The cash-rich Indian Premier League will expand from the 2028 season onwards, IPL chairman Arun Dhumal hinted, per the latest reports. The BCCI is considering a full-home-and-away format from the next media-rights cycle, starting in 2028, expanding the number of matches to 94 a season, but without adding new teams to the stacked roster. The league expanded to its current 74-match format in 2022 after the IPL introduced the Gujarat Titans (GT) and Lucknow Super Giants (LSG). Meanwhile, there were initial plans to grow it to 84 matches a season from this year onwards, but the tournament's schedule crunch and broadcasters’ restriction surrounding plenty of double headers delayed it; however, the league expansion remains part of the plan. Per a report in ESPNcricinfo, the IPL window (in the FTP) for the next two years is already locked from mid-March till May end; Dhumal’s latest remarks suggest that the Indian Cricket Board is considering further expanding it to 94 matches, starting in 2028. Although the IPL already consumes around two months of the international cricket calendar, should the BCCI and IPL accept the said model, they would need to add another two weeks. "Definitely, that might be an opportunity," Dhumal said. "We've been discussing in ICC, we've been discussing in-house in BCCI. Given how the interest of the fans is changing with regard to bilateral and ICC events, in regard to franchise cricket and T20 cricket, we'll have to talk more seriously about it and see how we can create maximum value for the stakeholders of the game. "Ideally, we'd want a larger window, or to maybe go on from 74 to 84 or 94 at some point… So that every team gets to play against every team home and away, for that, you need 94 games,” he continued. Broadcasters in a tight spot over new module The boards will discuss IPL window duration for the upcoming FTP next year, with officials at multiple franchises expressing keenness in watching the league grow to 94 matches a season; however, the expansion would depend on the broadcaster's interest after the Reliance-Disney merger (to create JioStar) in India. Considering the TV and streaming numbers usually dip midway through an IPL season, which the broadcasters attribute to viewer fatigue, the expansion would increase the double-headers from 12 (currently) to whatever number from the 2028 season onwards. Although the growing interest from investors in this new module could push the BCCI to make rapid changes, the board has decided against growing it regarding the number of teams. "Ten is a good number for now," Dhumal said. "Paramount is the interest in the tournament and the quality of cricket that we play… I don't see any scope in the short term. Going forward, with how this whole landscape evolves, we'll take a call accordingly."

Look away cricketers! IPL is expanding to 94 matches a season from 2028 onwards - Report

Punjab Kings' co-owner <a href="https://www.wionews.com/tags/preity-zinta">Preity Zinta</a> on Monday (April 28) heaped praises on her team's captain <a href="https://www.wionews.com/tags/shreyas-iyer">Shreyas Iyer</a>. The Bollywood star described the 30-year-old cricketer as very down-to-earth individual and incredible captain and also being the team's softest spoken player.
Iyer was bought by the Punjab Kings in the IPL 2025 mega auction for a staggering Rs 26.75 crore. So far, Punjab Kings have won five matches out of the nine played, with one match against Kolkata Knight Riders at Eden Gardens being abandoned due to rain.
Also Read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/pahalgam-terror-attack-india-news-cricket-ex-pakistan-cricketer-danish-kaneria-tears-apart-shahid-afridi-for-his-scathing-india-kills-its-own-people-remark-9010747">Pahalgam terror attack: Ex-PAK spinner tears apart Afridi for his scathing &lsquo;India kills its own people&rsquo; remark</a>
While responding to questions from fans on social media, Punjab Kings' co-owner Preity Zinta said, "Shreyas is a very down to earth guy and an amazing captain. He is very tactical and aggressive in his approach as a player, but the sweetest and the most soft-spoken guy. We are very happy that he is leading Punjab Kings and even happier we could get him in the auction as he was our first and only choice for captaincy, therefore, the whole auction revolved around him for us as a team."
"We still have the second half of the tournament, so I don&rsquo;t want to speak to soon. I hope we put our best foot forward and play to our potential. The biggest plus is how our young talented players are stepping up and showing the world who they are through their play," she added.
<h2>'Virat was a spirited teen when I first met him'</h2>
One of the user also tweeted a picture of her with former Royal Challengers Bengaluru captain <a href="https://www.wionews.com/tags/virat-kohli">Virat Kohli</a> during the recent match between between the two teams, asking her what the conversation between them was.
&ldquo;We were showing each other pictures of our children and talking about them! Time does fly&hellip; When I first met Virat 18 years ago, he was a spirited teenager buzzing with talent and fire &ndash; today he still has that fire and is an icon and a very sweet and doting father," Zinta remarked.
When asked about if she could bring one player back from the Kings 11/Punjab Kings squads of the past, to play this season, Zinta was cautious about her response by saying, "The windscreen is &nbsp;larger than the rear view mirror so, no point going back to the past. It&rsquo;s time to look forward and appreciate what one &nbsp;has in the present and we have the best squad this year."
Another user asked that what has been her biggest learning from the <a href="https://www.wionews.com/tags/indian-premier-league">Indian Premier League</a>. The Bollywood star replied by saying, "IPL is that stage where the hard-working and talented shine! It&rsquo;s probably one of the few places in India where influence and nepotism don&rsquo;t work, just raw talent, hard work and sheer determination triumph. When talent meets opportunity, then sky is the limit," she signed off.

Sports, Entertainment: While responding to questions from fans on social media, Preity Zinta revealed how the whole auction strategy was revolved around Shreyas Iyer

Punjab Kings' co-owner Preity Zinta on Monday (April 28) heaped praises on her team's captain Shreyas Iyer. The Bollywood star described the 30-year-old cricketer as very down-to-earth individual and incredible captain and also being the team's softest spoken player. Iyer was bought by the Punjab Kings in the IPL 2025 mega auction for a staggering Rs 26.75 crore. So far, Punjab Kings have won five matches out of the nine played, with one match against Kolkata Knight Riders at Eden Gardens being abandoned due to rain. Also Read: Pahalgam terror attack: Ex-PAK spinner tears apart Afridi for his scathing ‘India kills its own people’ remark While responding to questions from fans on social media, Punjab Kings' co-owner Preity Zinta said, "Shreyas is a very down to earth guy and an amazing captain. He is very tactical and aggressive in his approach as a player, but the sweetest and the most soft-spoken guy. We are very happy that he is leading Punjab Kings and even happier we could get him in the auction as he was our first and only choice for captaincy, therefore, the whole auction revolved around him for us as a team." "We still have the second half of the tournament, so I don’t want to speak to soon. I hope we put our best foot forward and play to our potential. The biggest plus is how our young talented players are stepping up and showing the world who they are through their play," she added. 'Virat was a spirited teen when I first met him' One of the user also tweeted a picture of her with former Royal Challengers Bengaluru captain Virat Kohli during the recent match between between the two teams, asking her what the conversation between them was. “We were showing each other pictures of our children and talking about them! Time does fly… When I first met Virat 18 years ago, he was a spirited teenager buzzing with talent and fire – today he still has that fire and is an icon and a very sweet and doting father," Zinta remarked. When asked about if she could bring one player back from the Kings 11/Punjab Kings squads of the past, to play this season, Zinta was cautious about her response by saying, "The windscreen is larger than the rear view mirror so, no point going back to the past. It’s time to look forward and appreciate what one has in the present and we have the best squad this year." Another user asked that what has been her biggest learning from the Indian Premier League. The Bollywood star replied by saying, "IPL is that stage where the hard-working and talented shine! It’s probably one of the few places in India where influence and nepotism don’t work, just raw talent, hard work and sheer determination triumph. When talent meets opportunity, then sky is the limit," she signed off.

IPL 2025: PBKS co-owner Preity Zinta says, 'Shreyas Iyer was our first and only choice to lead team'

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/tags/virat-kohli" rel="dofollow">Virat Kohli</a> is a run-scoring machine who loves run chases, doing this over and over again for close to two decades now. The RCB superstar was the cornerstone of his side&rsquo;s massive yet crucial six-wicket win over the hosts <a href="https://www.wionews.com/tags/delhi-capitals" rel="dofollow">Delhi Capitals</a> on Sunday evening, propelling the Royal Challengers Bengaluru to the top of the points table in <a href="https://www.wionews.com/tags/ipl-2025" rel="dofollow">IPL 2025</a>.
Kohli completed his sixth fifty (51) this season, and alongside all-rounder Krunal Pandya, the star of the night for picking one wicket and scoring an unbeaten 73, helped RCB complete IPL&rsquo;s first in Delhi. They became the first-ever team in IPL history to win six away matches on the trot in a season.
Also read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/cricket-from-bad-to-worse-ipl-slap-hefty-fine-on-lsg-captain-rishabh-pant-for-slow-over-rate-against-mi-9008556" rel="dofollow">From bad to worse! IPL slap hefty fine on LSG captain Rishabh Pant for slow over-rate against MI</a>&nbsp;
RCB won the toss and elected to field first against Delhi. The DC openers, Abishek Porel and Faf du Plessis, added 33 for the first wicket before losing two quick wickets inside the Powerplay. Seasoned campaigners KL Rahul and Faf tried stitching a useful stand but failed, with Pandya accounting for the Protean on 22 to dent DC&rsquo;s run.
Before KL Rahul could accelerate, his India teammate Bhuvneshwar Kumar removed him on 41 off 39 balls; he later got rid of dangerous Ashutosh Sharma on just two. With Delhi&rsquo;s back against the wall, Tristan Stubbs bailed the team out with a late blitz, hitting 34 off 18 balls, including six and five fours. His wicket was the last nail in the coffin, as RCB restricted DC to 162 for eight in 20 overs.
<h2>Kohli, Krunal show in Delhi</h2>
Opening with a new partner in Jacob Bethell, Kohli saw three wickets falling early inside the first six overs, with RCB&rsquo;s scorecard reeling at 26 for three at one stage.&nbsp;
Kohli and Krunal then began the recovery work. The pair first completed a fifty-plus stand and then marched towards crossing the landmark of a 100-run partnership, putting RCB&rsquo;s nose in front. While Kohli got out shortly after completing his fifty, with the visitors still in the chase, Krunal stood his ground and engineered the chase with Tim David as RCB won the game with six wickets and nine balls remaining.&nbsp;

After a win over DC, the Royal Challengers Bengaluru (RCB) became the first-ever team in IPL history to win six away matches on the trot in a season. Sports, Cricket

Virat Kohli is a run-scoring machine who loves run chases, doing this over and over again for close to two decades now. The RCB superstar was the cornerstone of his side’s massive yet crucial six-wicket win over the hosts Delhi Capitals on Sunday evening, propelling the Royal Challengers Bengaluru to the top of the points table in IPL 2025. Kohli completed his sixth fifty (51) this season, and alongside all-rounder Krunal Pandya, the star of the night for picking one wicket and scoring an unbeaten 73, helped RCB complete IPL’s first in Delhi. They became the first-ever team in IPL history to win six away matches on the trot in a season. Also read | From bad to worse! IPL slap hefty fine on LSG captain Rishabh Pant for slow over-rate against MI RCB won the toss and elected to field first against Delhi. The DC openers, Abishek Porel and Faf du Plessis, added 33 for the first wicket before losing two quick wickets inside the Powerplay. Seasoned campaigners KL Rahul and Faf tried stitching a useful stand but failed, with Pandya accounting for the Protean on 22 to dent DC’s run. Before KL Rahul could accelerate, his India teammate Bhuvneshwar Kumar removed him on 41 off 39 balls; he later got rid of dangerous Ashutosh Sharma on just two. With Delhi’s back against the wall, Tristan Stubbs bailed the team out with a late blitz, hitting 34 off 18 balls, including six and five fours. His wicket was the last nail in the coffin, as RCB restricted DC to 162 for eight in 20 overs. Kohli, Krunal show in Delhi Opening with a new partner in Jacob Bethell, Kohli saw three wickets falling early inside the first six overs, with RCB’s scorecard reeling at 26 for three at one stage. Kohli and Krunal then began the recovery work. The pair first completed a fifty-plus stand and then marched towards crossing the landmark of a 100-run partnership, putting RCB’s nose in front. While Kohli got out shortly after completing his fifty, with the visitors still in the chase, Krunal stood his ground and engineered the chase with Tim David as RCB won the game with six wickets and nine balls remaining.

Kohli, Krunal power RCB to IPL’s first in crucial away win in Delhi

Things continue to turn worse for <a href="https://www.wionews.com/tags/lucknow-super-giants" rel="dofollow">Lucknow Super Giants (LSG)</a> captain <a href="https://www.wionews.com/tags/rishabh-pant" rel="dofollow">Rishabh Pant</a> in the ongoing <a href="https://www.wionews.com/tags/ipl-2025" rel="dofollow">IPL 2025</a>. After losing the crucial away clash against Mumbai Indians at the Wankhede on Sunday (Apr 27) by 54 runs, the IPL slapped a hefty fine of INR 24 lakh on Pant as punishment for his side&rsquo;s slow over-rate against MI.
The IPL fined Pant for the second time this edition for the same offence under Article 2.22 of the IPL's Code of Conduct. Meanwhile, the IPL has also fined the rest of LSG's playing XI, including the Impact Player, either INR 6 lakh or 25 per cent of their match fees, whichever is lesser.
Also read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/cricket-mi-vs-lsg-jasprit-bumrah-422-helps-mumbai-indians-register-fifth-straight-win-in-ipl-2025-9008199" rel="dofollow">MI vs LSG: Record-breaker Bumrah helps Mumbai Indians register fifth straight win in IPL 2025</a>
Reeling at the sixth spot on the points table with five wins in ten contested matches, LSG stay afloat in the playoff race, but what worries them more is their captain&rsquo;s form with the bat. Pant, whom the LSG bought for a whooping INR 27 crore at the mega auction, hasn&rsquo;t lived up to his price, neither with the willow in hand nor as a captain.
Enduring a horror run this season, Pant has managed 110 runs in ten outings, averaging just 12 and striking at less than 100 (98.21).&nbsp;
Chasing a mammoth 216 in Mumbai on a hot afternoon, LSG began well but lost too many wickets in the middle to lose their ground and any chance of upsetting MI&rsquo;s winning run in the past five games. Coming into bat at number four and inside the first ten overs, Pant got out on a second-ball four after miscuing a reverse sweep off Will Jacks. His dismissal, however, reflected his lean patch with the bat this time. &nbsp;
<h2>Pant on his poor form</h2>
Addressing the media after his side&rsquo;s loss in Mumbai, Pant said signalling out his form isn&rsquo;t the ideal thing to do at this time.
"See, (I am) keeping it very simple," Pant said.&nbsp;
"Not thinking about that [his form] too much because in a season like this, where things are not going your way, you're going to start questioning yourself as a player, and that is something you don't want to do.
"When the team isn't doing well, you've got to think about that because eventually it's a team game. Yes, one player definitely makes a difference, but every time if you take out the individual, it's not the right thing to do, I guess,&rdquo; he continued.&nbsp;

The IPL fined LSG captain Rishabh Pant for the second time this edition for the same offence under Article 2.22 of the IPL's Code of Conduct. Sports, Cricket

Things continue to turn worse for Lucknow Super Giants (LSG) captain Rishabh Pant in the ongoing IPL 2025. After losing the crucial away clash against Mumbai Indians at the Wankhede on Sunday (Apr 27) by 54 runs, the IPL slapped a hefty fine of INR 24 lakh on Pant as punishment for his side’s slow over-rate against MI. The IPL fined Pant for the second time this edition for the same offence under Article 2.22 of the IPL's Code of Conduct. Meanwhile, the IPL has also fined the rest of LSG's playing XI, including the Impact Player, either INR 6 lakh or 25 per cent of their match fees, whichever is lesser. Also read | MI vs LSG: Record-breaker Bumrah helps Mumbai Indians register fifth straight win in IPL 2025 Reeling at the sixth spot on the points table with five wins in ten contested matches, LSG stay afloat in the playoff race, but what worries them more is their captain’s form with the bat. Pant, whom the LSG bought for a whooping INR 27 crore at the mega auction, hasn’t lived up to his price, neither with the willow in hand nor as a captain. Enduring a horror run this season, Pant has managed 110 runs in ten outings, averaging just 12 and striking at less than 100 (98.21). Chasing a mammoth 216 in Mumbai on a hot afternoon, LSG began well but lost too many wickets in the middle to lose their ground and any chance of upsetting MI’s winning run in the past five games. Coming into bat at number four and inside the first ten overs, Pant got out on a second-ball four after miscuing a reverse sweep off Will Jacks. His dismissal, however, reflected his lean patch with the bat this time. Pant on his poor form Addressing the media after his side’s loss in Mumbai, Pant said signalling out his form isn’t the ideal thing to do at this time. "See, (I am) keeping it very simple," Pant said. "Not thinking about that [his form] too much because in a season like this, where things are not going your way, you're going to start questioning yourself as a player, and that is something you don't want to do. "When the team isn't doing well, you've got to think about that because eventually it's a team game. Yes, one player definitely makes a difference, but every time if you take out the individual, it's not the right thing to do, I guess,” he continued.

From bad to worse! IPL slap hefty fine on LSG captain Rishabh Pant for slow over-rate against MI

Barcelona stormed into the women's Champions League final for the sixth time as their 4-1 win at Chelsea in the semi-final second leg sealed an 8-2 aggregate triumph on Sunday. The Spanish are chasing a third successive Champions League crown, and they brushed aside Chelsea with ease at Stamford Bridge to set up a final showdown with Arsenal or Lyon.<o:p></o:p>
<blockquote class="twitter-tweet publive-iframes-block publive-Twitter-block" contenteditable="false" width="600" height="400" id="PL_blockquote_block-m9zwjysm-p9ycquty-slz5b1pj">
TORNEM A LA FINAL DE LA CHAMPIONS ⭐ <a href="https://t.co/QO4isBUnCz">pic.twitter.com/QO4isBUnCz</a>
&mdash; FC Barcelona Femen&iacute; (@FCBfemeni) <a href="https://twitter.com/FCBfemeni/status/1916506232338239985?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">April 27, 2025</a></blockquote>
Lyon, who beat Barcelona in the 2022 final, hold a 2-1 lead ahead of their second leg later on Sunday.<o:p></o:p>
Also read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/real-madrid-defender-antonio-rudiger-issues-public-apology-for-throwing-object-at-copa-final-referee-9007801" rel="dofollow">Real Madrid defender Rudiger issues public apology for throwing object at Copa final referee</a> 
Trailing 4-1 from last Sunday's meeting at the Johan Cruyff Stadium, Chelsea were blown away by Barcelona in the first half.<o:p></o:p>
Two-time Ballon d'Or winner Aitana Bonmati got the first goal with a driving run through a non-existent Chelsea defence that culminated in a bullet finish into the roof of the net.<o:p></o:p>
Ewa Pajor tapped in their second four minutes before half-time to effectively finish the tie as a contest.<o:p></o:p>
Claudia Pina curled in the third shortly afterwards as what remained of Chelsea's resistance crumbled.<o:p></o:p>
A mix-up between Niamh Charles and goalkeeper Hannah Hampton in the 90th minute let in Salma Paralluelo to rubber-stamp the capitulation.<o:p></o:p>
Wieke Kaptein's reply in the final seconds was no consolation for outclassed Chelsea, whose wait for a first Champions League crown goes on.<o:p></o:p>
Chelsea will now focus on winning a sixth consecutive Women's Super League title and first under boss Sonia Bompastor. <o:p></o:p>
That can be achieved with a victory against Manchester United on Wednesday if other results go their way.<o:p></o:p>
"When you want to play against the best team in Europe, you have to be in all aspects of the performance. All of these aspects we were not at our best for different reasons," Bompastor said. "Barcelona are a really good team, but the difference between the teams is not that much. One team has been clinical in both games, but my team weren't."<o:p></o:p>
Bonmati was well inside her own half when she took possession in the build-up to the opening goal in the 25th minute.<o:p></o:p>
Chelsea's Millie Bright slid in but failed to take the ball, leaving Bonmati a clear run through for a drilled finish from an acute angle.<o:p></o:p>
The visitors struck again after 41 minutes when Charles was left isolated on the right against Caroline Graham, who ran around her with ease, pulling the ball back across goal for Pajor to tap in.<o:p></o:p>
Pina extinguished Chelsea's comeback hopes in the 43rd minute to make it three goals in 18 minutes. <o:p></o:p>
The forward was given room on the edge of the area to stop, take a touch and size up a curling effort that pinged in via the inside of Hampton's post.<o:p></o:p>
Paralluelo took advantage of Charles' hesitance to slot home the fourth goal in the 90th minute, and Kaptein's finish offered little solace for Chelsea.
Disclaimer:&nbsp;This story has been published from a news agency feed with minimal edits to adhere to WION's style guide. The headline may have been changed to better reflect the content of the story or to make it more suitable for the WION audience.

Barcelona is chasing a third successive Champions League crown; they beat Chelsea with ease at Stamford Bridge to set up a showdown with Arsenal or Lyon. Sports, Football

Barcelona stormed into the women's Champions League final for the sixth time as their 4-1 win at Chelsea in the semi-final second leg sealed an 8-2 aggregate triumph on Sunday. The Spanish are chasing a third successive Champions League crown, and they brushed aside Chelsea with ease at Stamford Bridge to set up a final showdown with Arsenal or Lyon. TORNEM A LA FINAL DE LA CHAMPIONS ⭐ pic.twitter.com/QO4isBUnCz — FC Barcelona Femení (@FCBfemeni) April 27, 2025 Lyon, who beat Barcelona in the 2022 final, hold a 2-1 lead ahead of their second leg later on Sunday. Also read | Real Madrid defender Rudiger issues public apology for throwing object at Copa final referee Trailing 4-1 from last Sunday's meeting at the Johan Cruyff Stadium, Chelsea were blown away by Barcelona in the first half. Two-time Ballon d'Or winner Aitana Bonmati got the first goal with a driving run through a non-existent Chelsea defence that culminated in a bullet finish into the roof of the net. Ewa Pajor tapped in their second four minutes before half-time to effectively finish the tie as a contest. Claudia Pina curled in the third shortly afterwards as what remained of Chelsea's resistance crumbled. A mix-up between Niamh Charles and goalkeeper Hannah Hampton in the 90th minute let in Salma Paralluelo to rubber-stamp the capitulation. Wieke Kaptein's reply in the final seconds was no consolation for outclassed Chelsea, whose wait for a first Champions League crown goes on. Chelsea will now focus on winning a sixth consecutive Women's Super League title and first under boss Sonia Bompastor. That can be achieved with a victory against Manchester United on Wednesday if other results go their way. "When you want to play against the best team in Europe, you have to be in all aspects of the performance. All of these aspects we were not at our best for different reasons," Bompastor said. "Barcelona are a really good team, but the difference between the teams is not that much. One team has been clinical in both games, but my team weren't." Bonmati was well inside her own half when she took possession in the build-up to the opening goal in the 25th minute. Chelsea's Millie Bright slid in but failed to take the ball, leaving Bonmati a clear run through for a drilled finish from an acute angle. The visitors struck again after 41 minutes when Charles was left isolated on the right against Caroline Graham, who ran around her with ease, pulling the ball back across goal for Pajor to tap in. Pina extinguished Chelsea's comeback hopes in the 43rd minute to make it three goals in 18 minutes. The forward was given room on the edge of the area to stop, take a touch and size up a curling effort that pinged in via the inside of Hampton's post. Paralluelo took advantage of Charles' hesitance to slot home the fourth goal in the 90th minute, and Kaptein's finish offered little solace for Chelsea. Disclaimer: This story has been published from a news agency feed with minimal edits to adhere to WION's style guide. The headline may have been changed to better reflect the content of the story or to make it more suitable for the WION audience.

Barcelona thrash Chelsea on aggregate to reach sixth Women’s Champions League final

Pace bowler <a href="https://www.wionews.com/tags/jasprit-bumrah" rel="dofollow">Jasprit Bumrah</a> returned figures of 4-22 to lead IPL heavyweights <a href="https://www.wionews.com/tags/mumbai-indians" rel="dofollow">Mumbai Indians</a> to their fifth successive win with a 54-run hammering of Lucknow Super Giants (LSG) on Sunday. Five-time champions Mumbai posted 215-7 after South Africa's Ryan Rickleton, a left-hand wicketkeeper-batsman, hit 58 and Suryakumar Yadav hammered 54 at the Wankhede Stadium.<o:p></o:p>
All the bowlers contributed, including England's Will Jacks, who took two wickets in one over, as Mumbai bowled out Lucknow for 161, pushing them up to second in the 10-team table in <a href="https://www.wionews.com/tags/ipl-2025" rel="dofollow">IPL 2025</a>.<o:p></o:p>
Also read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/cricket-mi-vs-lsg-suryakumar-yadav-becomes-quickest-to-4000-ipl-runs-by-an-indian-surpasses-rohit-sharma-9008184" rel="dofollow">MI vs LSG: Suryakumar Yadav becomes quickest to 4000 IPL runs by an Indian, surpasses Rohit</a> 
It was Mumbai's 150th victory in the Indian Premier League, the first time for any team in the league.<o:p></o:p>
Bumrah stood out after he dismissed Aiden Markram to go past former quick Lasith Malinga's record of 170 IPL wickets to become Mumbai's leading bowler.<o:p></o:p>
Bumrah, who has returned from a back injury that made him miss India's Champions Trophy title win in Dubai last month, now has 174 wickets.<o:p></o:p>
Lucknow opener Mitchell Marsh and Nicholas Pooran hit back with a flurry of boundaries in their breezy partnership of 42.<o:p></o:p>
Jacks got Pooran out for 27 with his off-spin and struck two balls later to send back Lucknow skipper Rishabh Pant, caught out for four while the left-hander attempted a reverse sweep.<o:p></o:p>
Wicketkeeper-batsman Pant, who was bought by Lucknow at an all-time auction record of $3.21 million in November, has flopped with the bat, scoring just 110 runs in nine innings.<o:p></o:p>
New Zealand left-arm quick Trent Boult took down Australia's Marsh for 34 and later got Ayush Badoni out on 35 to derail the chase and returned figures of 3-20.<o:p></o:p>
Wickets kept tumbling, and Bumrah returned to take three in one, including impact player David Miller out for 24 to shut out Lucknow.<o:p></o:p>
The batters set up victory after the left-handed Rickleton began quickly with a rush of boundaries despite losing his opening partner and former captain Rohit, who fell to returning speedster Mayank Yadav's slower ball for 12.<o:p></o:p>
Rickleton countered the spin threat to hit back in a 55-run second-wicket stand with Jacks, who hit 29, but finally fell to leg-spinner Digvesh Rathi.<o:p></o:p>
Jacks hit a few boundaries before being bowled by Prince Yadav, but Suryakumar kept up the attack with his audacious hitting, including a kneel-down hook for six over fine-leg.<o:p></o:p>
The Lucknow bowlers struck regularly, and Mayank bowled skipper Hardik Pandya for five.<o:p></o:p>
India's T20 captain Suryakumar, who is the season's leading batter with 427 runs, raised his fifty with a six, but pace bowler Avesh Khan dismissed him next ball.<o:p></o:p>
Naman Dhir, who hit an unbeaten 25 off 11 balls, and South African all-rounder Corbin Bosch, who smashed a 10-ball 20 on his IPL debut, helped finish with a flourish in their quickfire stand of 28.
Disclaimer:&nbsp;This story has been published from a news agency feed with minimal edits to adhere to WION's style guide. The headline may have been changed to better reflect the content of the story or to make it more suitable for the WION audience.

It was the Mumbai Indians' 150th victory in the Indian Premier League, the first time for any team in the league. Suryakumar Yadav broke some records too. Sports, Cricket

Pace bowler Jasprit Bumrah returned figures of 4-22 to lead IPL heavyweights Mumbai Indians to their fifth successive win with a 54-run hammering of Lucknow Super Giants (LSG) on Sunday. Five-time champions Mumbai posted 215-7 after South Africa's Ryan Rickleton, a left-hand wicketkeeper-batsman, hit 58 and Suryakumar Yadav hammered 54 at the Wankhede Stadium. All the bowlers contributed, including England's Will Jacks, who took two wickets in one over, as Mumbai bowled out Lucknow for 161, pushing them up to second in the 10-team table in IPL 2025. Also read | MI vs LSG: Suryakumar Yadav becomes quickest to 4000 IPL runs by an Indian, surpasses Rohit It was Mumbai's 150th victory in the Indian Premier League, the first time for any team in the league. Bumrah stood out after he dismissed Aiden Markram to go past former quick Lasith Malinga's record of 170 IPL wickets to become Mumbai's leading bowler. Bumrah, who has returned from a back injury that made him miss India's Champions Trophy title win in Dubai last month, now has 174 wickets. Lucknow opener Mitchell Marsh and Nicholas Pooran hit back with a flurry of boundaries in their breezy partnership of 42. Jacks got Pooran out for 27 with his off-spin and struck two balls later to send back Lucknow skipper Rishabh Pant, caught out for four while the left-hander attempted a reverse sweep. Wicketkeeper-batsman Pant, who was bought by Lucknow at an all-time auction record of $3.21 million in November, has flopped with the bat, scoring just 110 runs in nine innings. New Zealand left-arm quick Trent Boult took down Australia's Marsh for 34 and later got Ayush Badoni out on 35 to derail the chase and returned figures of 3-20. Wickets kept tumbling, and Bumrah returned to take three in one, including impact player David Miller out for 24 to shut out Lucknow. The batters set up victory after the left-handed Rickleton began quickly with a rush of boundaries despite losing his opening partner and former captain Rohit, who fell to returning speedster Mayank Yadav's slower ball for 12. Rickleton countered the spin threat to hit back in a 55-run second-wicket stand with Jacks, who hit 29, but finally fell to leg-spinner Digvesh Rathi. Jacks hit a few boundaries before being bowled by Prince Yadav, but Suryakumar kept up the attack with his audacious hitting, including a kneel-down hook for six over fine-leg. The Lucknow bowlers struck regularly, and Mayank bowled skipper Hardik Pandya for five. India's T20 captain Suryakumar, who is the season's leading batter with 427 runs, raised his fifty with a six, but pace bowler Avesh Khan dismissed him next ball. Naman Dhir, who hit an unbeaten 25 off 11 balls, and South African all-rounder Corbin Bosch, who smashed a 10-ball 20 on his IPL debut, helped finish with a flourish in their quickfire stand of 28. Disclaimer: This story has been published from a news agency feed with minimal edits to adhere to WION's style guide. The headline may have been changed to better reflect the content of the story or to make it more suitable for the WION audience.

MI vs LSG: Record-breaker Bumrah helps Mumbai Indians register fifth straight win in IPL 2025

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/tags/mumbai-indians" rel="dofollow">Mumbai Indians</a> ace batter <a href="https://www.wionews.com/tags/suryakumar-yadav" rel="dofollow">Suryakumar Yadav</a> continued his brilliant form in <a href="https://www.wionews.com/tags/ipl-2025" rel="dofollow">IPL 2025</a> with another half-century this season, more importantly in the winning cause against Lucknow Super Giants at the Wankhede on Sunday. The right-handed batter scored an unbeaten 54 in the first innings, propelling MI to 215 for seven in 20 overs. He, however, also broke several records on the day, including becoming the quickest Indian (by balls) to cross the 4000-run mark in the league.
Although he is third on the list for batters quickest to 4000 IPL runs, after Chris Gayle and AB de Villiers, who coincidently unlocked this feat in 2658 balls each, Suryakumar did it in 2714 balls, quicker than fifth-placed and only Indian in the top five (barring him), Suresh Raina, who took 2886 balls to reach there. Former Australia opener David Warner is fourth on the list, taking 2809 balls to this feat.&nbsp;
Also read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/ipl-2025-mayank-yadav-removes-rohit-sharma-on-return-to-cricket-but-loses-pace-after-injury-layoff-9008021" rel="dofollow">IPL 2025: Mayank Yadav removes Rohit Sharma on return to cricket but loses pace after injury layoff</a>
Heading into MI&rsquo;s 10th game of the season, Suryakumar Yadav needed 33 runs to enter the list, and he brought that up in style by hitting LSG seamer Avesh Khan for a four in the 13th over. The attacking middle-order batter enjoyed another fruitful outing this season, helping Mumbai complete their fifth successive win, which saw them climb up to the second spot on the points table with six wins from ten contested matches.
<blockquote class="twitter-tweet publive-iframes-block publive-Twitter-block" contenteditable="false" width="600" height="400" id="PL_blockquote_block-m9zrxqbj-qz3jxybj-tnqse1ri">
💥💥💥<a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/SuryakumarYadav?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#SuryakumarYadav</a> uses the long handle &amp; smashes <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/RaviBishnoi?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#RaviBishnoi</a> for a thumping six over mid-wicket! 💪🏻 Watch the LIVE action ➡ <a href="https://t.co/gqQcy5KMtQ">https://t.co/gqQcy5KMtQ</a><a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/IPLonJioStar?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#IPLonJioStar</a> 👉 <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/MIvLSG?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#MIvLSG</a> | LIVE NOW on Star Sports1, Star Sports1 Hindi, Star Sports 2, Star Sports 2 Hindi &amp; JioHotstar! <a href="https://t.co/2b2kGBuoh5">pic.twitter.com/2b2kGBuoh5</a>
&mdash; Star Sports (@StarSportsIndia) <a href="https://twitter.com/StarSportsIndia/status/1916451381449212257?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">April 27, 2025</a></blockquote>
Suryakumar&rsquo;s IPL numbers are a testament to his greatness in the shortest format. In 160 matches played in the league thus far, SKY, as the fans often call him, has amassed 4021 runs, averaging 34.08 and striking at close to 150. He has hit 27 fifties and two hundreds, playing a handy role for the Mumbai Indians since his switch.
<h2>More records</h2>
Not only this, but Suryakumar Yadav also became the third Mumbai Indians player after veteran opener Rohit Sharma and former all-rounder Kieron Pollard to complete 3000 runs for the franchise.
He also completed 150 sixes in the cash-rich league.&nbsp;
Meanwhile, MI beat LSG by 54 runs, nearing punching their playoff ticket.&nbsp;

Suryakumar Yadav also became the third Mumbai Indians player, after Rohit Sharma and Kieron Pollard, to complete 3000 runs for the franchise. Sports, Cricket

Mumbai Indians ace batter Suryakumar Yadav continued his brilliant form in IPL 2025 with another half-century this season, more importantly in the winning cause against Lucknow Super Giants at the Wankhede on Sunday. The right-handed batter scored an unbeaten 54 in the first innings, propelling MI to 215 for seven in 20 overs. He, however, also broke several records on the day, including becoming the quickest Indian (by balls) to cross the 4000-run mark in the league. Although he is third on the list for batters quickest to 4000 IPL runs, after Chris Gayle and AB de Villiers, who coincidently unlocked this feat in 2658 balls each, Suryakumar did it in 2714 balls, quicker than fifth-placed and only Indian in the top five (barring him), Suresh Raina, who took 2886 balls to reach there. Former Australia opener David Warner is fourth on the list, taking 2809 balls to this feat. Also read | IPL 2025: Mayank Yadav removes Rohit Sharma on return to cricket but loses pace after injury layoff Heading into MI’s 10th game of the season, Suryakumar Yadav needed 33 runs to enter the list, and he brought that up in style by hitting LSG seamer Avesh Khan for a four in the 13th over. The attacking middle-order batter enjoyed another fruitful outing this season, helping Mumbai complete their fifth successive win, which saw them climb up to the second spot on the points table with six wins from ten contested matches. 💥💥💥#SuryakumarYadav uses the long handle & smashes #RaviBishnoi for a thumping six over mid-wicket! 💪🏻 Watch the LIVE action ➡ https://t.co/gqQcy5KMtQ#IPLonJioStar 👉 #MIvLSG | LIVE NOW on Star Sports1, Star Sports1 Hindi, Star Sports 2, Star Sports 2 Hindi & JioHotstar! pic.twitter.com/2b2kGBuoh5 — Star Sports (@StarSportsIndia) April 27, 2025 Suryakumar’s IPL numbers are a testament to his greatness in the shortest format. In 160 matches played in the league thus far, SKY, as the fans often call him, has amassed 4021 runs, averaging 34.08 and striking at close to 150. He has hit 27 fifties and two hundreds, playing a handy role for the Mumbai Indians since his switch. More records Not only this, but Suryakumar Yadav also became the third Mumbai Indians player after veteran opener Rohit Sharma and former all-rounder Kieron Pollard to complete 3000 runs for the franchise. He also completed 150 sixes in the cash-rich league. Meanwhile, MI beat LSG by 54 runs, nearing punching their playoff ticket.

MI vs LSG: Suryakumar Yadav becomes quickest to 4000 IPL runs by an Indian, surpasses Rohit

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