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The West Bengal government will present Dokra metal Maa Durga idols, Darjeeling tea, Nadia's traditional uttariya stoles and terracotta artefacts to the Brazil, Uruguay and Indian men's and women's teams, and to the Russian women's team. All of this is being arranged while thousands of police personnel and a three-tier security cordon prepare to guard Saturday's historic India-Brazil friendly on Saturday (Oct 3) at Salt Lake Stadium.<h2>Gifts from Bengal's craft belt</h2>The hampers draw on the state's artisan clusters: Dokra metalwork from Bankura and Purba Bardhaman, textiles from Nadia, terracotta pieces and Darjeeling's tea. With Durga Puja weeks away, the idol is a timely gesture for guests visiting the City of Joy.<h2>Blue Tigers ready</h2>The football team completed its last-minute preparations ahead of the historic India-Brazil match. On Friday at Salt Lake Stadium, under coach Khalid Jamil's supervision, Gurpreet Singh Sandhu, Manvir Singh, Ryan Williams and others trained intensively.The session focused on preparing for different match situations. The players worked on multiple set-pieces and attacking movements, including crosses from corners and direct shots from outside the box.India recently drew with Panama in Bengaluru after a good performance. Now they face five-time world champions Brazil. Saturday's match is a dream moment not only for the Indian players but also for millions of football lovers across the country. The entire football fraternity is now waiting to see India take the field against Brazil on Kolkata soil.<h2>Security: layers, numbers, bans</h2>Spectators must clear three layers of security checks, and water bottles, umbrellas, flag poles, selfie-sticks and tripods are barred. Mobile or virtual tickets are scanned first, followed by a second check and a final frisking at the gate.On numbers, about 2,000 police personnel will be deployed, with Bidhannagar City Police combining ground security with CCTV, plainclothes personnel and mobile patrols. Radio flying squads will patrol the perimeter against ticket black-marketing, and senior officers including the Police Commissioner will be present.Brazil are not leaving it to chance either. The team sent an eight-member security delegation, reportedly to avoid a repeat of the crowd-control failures seen during Lionel Messi's visit last December. The state sports minister said everyone is working together on security and that the Chief Minister is personally monitoring the situation.<h2>Stadium makeover</h2>The sports department has been refurbishing restrooms and facilities, re-turfing the pitch after heavy rain and back-to-back matches, and installing new fencing around the practice grounds. Brazil's inspection team had earlier flagged concerns over the playing surface.<h2>Tickets and schedule</h2>Tickets ranged from ₹999 to ₹15,000, sold only online, and most non-premium seats went in about 20 minutes. The stadium holds roughly 85,000. Kick-off is 7 PM IST on Saturday, with gates opening at 4 PM. India face Uruguay at the same venue on October 6.

West Bengal hosts a historic India-Brazil football friendly at Salt Lake Stadium with 3-tier security, 2,000+ police, and VIP Bengal craft gifts. Pitch upgrades were completed ahead of 7 PM kick-off on Saturday (Oct 3).

The West Bengal government will present Dokra metal Maa Durga idols, Darjeeling tea, Nadia's traditional uttariya stoles and terracotta artefacts to the Brazil, Uruguay and Indian men's and women's teams, and to the Russian women's team. All of this is being arranged while thousands of police personnel and a three-tier security cordon prepare to guard Saturday's historic India-Brazil friendly on Saturday (Oct 3) at Salt Lake Stadium. Gifts from Bengal's craft belt The hampers draw on the state's artisan clusters: Dokra metalwork from Bankura and Purba Bardhaman, textiles from Nadia, terracotta pieces and Darjeeling's tea. With Durga Puja weeks away, the idol is a timely gesture for guests visiting the City of Joy. Blue Tigers ready The football team completed its last-minute preparations ahead of the historic India-Brazil match. On Friday at Salt Lake Stadium, under coach Khalid Jamil's supervision, Gurpreet Singh Sandhu, Manvir Singh, Ryan Williams and others trained intensively. The session focused on preparing for different match situations. The players worked on multiple set-pieces and attacking movements, including crosses from corners and direct shots from outside the box. India recently drew with Panama in Bengaluru after a good performance. Now they face five-time world champions Brazil. Saturday's match is a dream moment not only for the Indian players but also for millions of football lovers across the country. The entire football fraternity is now waiting to see India take the field against Brazil on Kolkata soil. Security: layers, numbers, bans Spectators must clear three layers of security checks, and water bottles, umbrellas, flag poles, selfie-sticks and tripods are barred. Mobile or virtual tickets are scanned first, followed by a second check and a final frisking at the gate. On numbers, about 2,000 police personnel will be deployed, with Bidhannagar City Police combining ground security with CCTV, plainclothes personnel and mobile patrols. Radio flying squads will patrol the perimeter against ticket black-marketing, and senior officers including the Police Commissioner will be present. Brazil are not leaving it to chance either. The team sent an eight-member security delegation, reportedly to avoid a repeat of the crowd-control failures seen during Lionel Messi's visit last December. The state sports minister said everyone is working together on security and that the Chief Minister is personally monitoring the situation. Stadium makeover The sports department has been refurbishing restrooms and facilities, re-turfing the pitch after heavy rain and back-to-back matches, and installing new fencing around the practice grounds. Brazil's inspection team had earlier flagged concerns over the playing surface. Tickets and schedule Tickets ranged from ₹999 to ₹15,000, sold only online, and most non-premium seats went in about 20 minutes. The stadium holds roughly 85,000. Kick-off is 7 PM IST on Saturday, with gates opening at 4 PM. India face Uruguay at the same venue on October 6.

West Bengal hosts a historic India-Brazil football friendly at Salt Lake Stadium with 3-tier security, 2,000+ police, and VIP Bengal craft gifts. Pitch upgrades were completed ahead of 7 PM kick-off on Saturday (Oct 3).

Dokra Durgas, Darjeeling Tea and a 2,000-strong police ring: Kolkata gets ready to host Brazil

The ODI World Cup 2027 schedule is out, with the opening match of the group stage set to be a rematch of the 2023 ODI World Cup final between India and Australia on October 7. India are in Group A along with Australia, Afghanistan, Pakistan, and Zimbabwe, as well as Qualifier A, which will be decided later. The Group B teams are New Zealand, South Africa, Sri Lanka, England, Bangladesh, and Qualifier B. The quadrennial tournament is scheduled to be played from October 2 to November 21 in South Africa, Zimbabwe, and Namibia. The tournament will see 14 teams competing overall, with 12 teams advancing directly to the group stage (and three playing the Super Series for the final group spot) before 7 teams advance to the Super 7 stage.<h2>India's schedule in the ODI World Cup 2027</h2>India start their campaign against Australia on October 7 to kick off the group stage at Newlands, Cape Town. The 2023 runners-up then head to the Wanderers, Johannesburg, to face arch-rivals Pakistan on October 10. They next play against Afghanistan on October 14 at Centurion, before taking on Qualifier A on October 17 at Bloemfontein. India finish the group stage against Zimbabwe on October 24 at Victoria Falls.Also Read - <a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/asian-games-2026-india-demolish-sri-lanka-to-set-up-men-s-cricket-gold-medal-match-vs-pakistan-1790841164067">Asian Games 2026: IND demolish SL to set up men's cricket gold medal game vs PAK</a><h2>What's next after the group stage?</h2>After the group stage, the top three teams from each group, as well as the best-placed fourth team across both groups, will advance to the Super 7 stage. The top four teams then qualify for the semi-finals, and the winners will play in the final on November 21 at the Wanderers.<h2>How the qualifier teams will be decided</h2>The tournament begins with a Super Series among three teams, which will be decided by the 10-team qualifying tournament early next year. The winner of that tournament will gain direct entry into the group stage (as Qualifier B), while the runner-up and the two losing semi-finalists will play the Super Series from October 2 to October 6 in Windhoek, Namibia — also a co-host — where the winner will become the final team (Qualifier A) to qualify for the group stage.

The 2027 ODI World Cup runs Oct 2–Nov 21 in Southern Africa. Group A features India, Australia, Pakistan, Afghan & Zim, while 7 of 14 teams advance to the Super 7. India open vs Australia on Oct 7.

The ODI World Cup 2027 schedule is out, with the opening match of the group stage set to be a rematch of the 2023 ODI World Cup final between India and Australia on October 7. India are in Group A along with Australia, Afghanistan, Pakistan, and Zimbabwe, as well as Qualifier A, which will be decided later. The Group B teams are New Zealand, South Africa, Sri Lanka, England, Bangladesh, and Qualifier B. The quadrennial tournament is scheduled to be played from October 2 to November 21 in South Africa, Zimbabwe, and Namibia. The tournament will see 14 teams competing overall, with 12 teams advancing directly to the group stage (and three playing the Super Series for the final group spot) before 7 teams advance to the Super 7 stage. India's schedule in the ODI World Cup 2027 India start their campaign against Australia on October 7 to kick off the group stage at Newlands, Cape Town. The 2023 runners-up then head to the Wanderers, Johannesburg, to face arch-rivals Pakistan on October 10. They next play against Afghanistan on October 14 at Centurion, before taking on Qualifier A on October 17 at Bloemfontein. India finish the group stage against Zimbabwe on October 24 at Victoria Falls. Also Read - Asian Games 2026: IND demolish SL to set up men's cricket gold medal game vs PAK What's next after the group stage? After the group stage, the top three teams from each group, as well as the best-placed fourth team across both groups, will advance to the Super 7 stage. The top four teams then qualify for the semi-finals, and the winners will play in the final on November 21 at the Wanderers. How the qualifier teams will be decided The tournament begins with a Super Series among three teams, which will be decided by the 10-team qualifying tournament early next year. The winner of that tournament will gain direct entry into the group stage (as Qualifier B), while the runner-up and the two losing semi-finalists will play the Super Series from October 2 to October 6 in Windhoek, Namibia — also a co-host — where the winner will become the final team (Qualifier A) to qualify for the group stage.

The 2027 ODI World Cup runs Oct 2–Nov 21 in Southern Africa. Group A features India, Australia, Pakistan, Afghan &amp; Zim, while 7 of 14 teams advance to the Super 7. India open vs Australia on Oct 7.

ODI World Cup 2027: Check India's full group stage schedule

Portugal shrugged off the absence of Cristiano Ronaldo and turned on the style to win 4-2 in Denmark in the UEFA Nations League on Thursday, while Germany beat Serbia 2-0 to give Jurgen Klopp his first win as coach. The controversy surrounding Ronaldo's departure from the Portugal squad on Wednesday overshadowed the match in Copenhagen, with the five-time Ballon d'Or winner's future in international football now in serious doubt.Also Read - <a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/former-india-player-lenny-rondrigues-says-football-players-players-need-more-tournaments-1790850058158">Ex-India player Lenny Rodrigues says football players 'need more tournaments'</a>Coach Jorge Jesus said before kick-off that he just wanted his side "to focus on the match", and they did not appear distracted as they scored some superb goals to win the Group A4 clash at the Parken Stadium.AC Milan striker Goncalo Ramos scored Portugal's winner in Norway on Sunday after being preferred to Ronaldo in attack, and here he set up Joao Cancelo for Portugal's early opener before getting their second goal on 25 minutes.Mikkel Damsgaard curled in a fine goal in between for Denmark, and Rasmus Hojlund scored their second equaliser shortly after half-time.However, Vitinha headed in a superb Bruno Fernandes cross to put Portugal back in front midway through the second half, and Joao Felix -- a club colleague of Ronaldo's at Al Nassr in Saudi Arabia -- finished off a superb move to seal Portugal's victory."A victory of the highest quality," said Jesus. "This Portugal team scored four goals and put in a performance which, in my opinion, was of a very high standard – and that cannot be overlooked."Of course, this is more important than anything else that has happened."Wales beat Norway 2-1 in the same group in Cardiff, despite Fulham's Oscar Bobb giving the visitors an early lead.Goals by Daniel James and Neco Williams turned the game around for Wales, while Norway had Torbjorn Heggem sent off at the start of the second half.Portugal, who are the defending Nations League champions, are top of the group with the maximum nine points from three games before entertaining Norway in Porto on Sunday.Klopp's first two matches in charge of Germany had ended in a draw in the Netherlands and a defeat at home to Greece, but it was third time lucky as his side saw off Serbia in Munich.Bayern Munich's Tom Bischof, playing at home, opened the scoring late in the first half and Liverpool's Florian Wirtz sealed the win with a brilliantly-taken goal just past the hour mark."The mix of football and attitude was top level today. I told the boys that this has to be our benchmark," Klopp told public broadcaster ZDF.<h2>Protests at Ireland game</h2>Germany's next game is away in Greece, who top Group A2 with seven points from three outings after a 2-2 draw at home to the Netherlands in Thessaloniki on Thursday.The home side were two ahead at half-time with goals by Fotis Ioannidis and Giorgos Masouras, but skipper Virgil van Dijk pulled one back just before the hour.Substitute Tijjani Reijnders then grabbed an 89th-minute leveller for Xavi Hernandez's Dutch side, who are second in the group on five points and complete this international window at home to pointless Serbia in Eindhoven on Sunday.Elsewhere, Troy Parrott scored twice, including a stunning solo effort, as Ireland drew 2-2 at home with Austria in a game briefly interrupted on two occasions by protests.Parrott, of Real Betis, opened the scoring in style after 12 minutes of the Group B3 encounter in Dublin, before tennis balls were thrown onto the pitch by those protesting Ireland's games against Israel, forcing a break in play.Later in the first half a man carrying a Palestinian flag got on the pitch before being stopped by security.Parrott scored again from the penalty spot to double Ireland's lead by the interval, but second-half goals by Alexander Prass and Michael Gregoritsch earned Austria a draw.Ralf Rangnick's team top the section with seven points, three more than both Ireland and Kosovo, who drew 0-0 with Israel in a game played in Hungary.Friday sees Zinedine Zidane's homecoming as he leads France out on home soil for the first time in their match with Italy.

Portugal Coach Jorge Jesus said before kick-off that he just wanted his side "to focus on the match", and they did not appear distracted as they scored some superb goals to win the Group A4 clash at the Parken Stadium.

Portugal shrugged off the absence of Cristiano Ronaldo and turned on the style to win 4-2 in Denmark in the UEFA Nations League on Thursday, while Germany beat Serbia 2-0 to give Jurgen Klopp his first win as coach. The controversy surrounding Ronaldo's departure from the Portugal squad on Wednesday overshadowed the match in Copenhagen, with the five-time Ballon d'Or winner's future in international football now in serious doubt. Also Read - Ex-India player Lenny Rodrigues says football players 'need more tournaments' Coach Jorge Jesus said before kick-off that he just wanted his side "to focus on the match", and they did not appear distracted as they scored some superb goals to win the Group A4 clash at the Parken Stadium. AC Milan striker Goncalo Ramos scored Portugal's winner in Norway on Sunday after being preferred to Ronaldo in attack, and here he set up Joao Cancelo for Portugal's early opener before getting their second goal on 25 minutes. Mikkel Damsgaard curled in a fine goal in between for Denmark, and Rasmus Hojlund scored their second equaliser shortly after half-time. However, Vitinha headed in a superb Bruno Fernandes cross to put Portugal back in front midway through the second half, and Joao Felix -- a club colleague of Ronaldo's at Al Nassr in Saudi Arabia -- finished off a superb move to seal Portugal's victory. "A victory of the highest quality," said Jesus. "This Portugal team scored four goals and put in a performance which, in my opinion, was of a very high standard – and that cannot be overlooked. "Of course, this is more important than anything else that has happened." Wales beat Norway 2-1 in the same group in Cardiff, despite Fulham's Oscar Bobb giving the visitors an early lead. Goals by Daniel James and Neco Williams turned the game around for Wales, while Norway had Torbjorn Heggem sent off at the start of the second half. Portugal, who are the defending Nations League champions, are top of the group with the maximum nine points from three games before entertaining Norway in Porto on Sunday. Klopp's first two matches in charge of Germany had ended in a draw in the Netherlands and a defeat at home to Greece, but it was third time lucky as his side saw off Serbia in Munich. Bayern Munich's Tom Bischof, playing at home, opened the scoring late in the first half and Liverpool's Florian Wirtz sealed the win with a brilliantly-taken goal just past the hour mark. "The mix of football and attitude was top level today. I told the boys that this has to be our benchmark," Klopp told public broadcaster ZDF. Protests at Ireland game Germany's next game is away in Greece, who top Group A2 with seven points from three outings after a 2-2 draw at home to the Netherlands in Thessaloniki on Thursday. The home side were two ahead at half-time with goals by Fotis Ioannidis and Giorgos Masouras, but skipper Virgil van Dijk pulled one back just before the hour. Substitute Tijjani Reijnders then grabbed an 89th-minute leveller for Xavi Hernandez's Dutch side, who are second in the group on five points and complete this international window at home to pointless Serbia in Eindhoven on Sunday. Elsewhere, Troy Parrott scored twice, including a stunning solo effort, as Ireland drew 2-2 at home with Austria in a game briefly interrupted on two occasions by protests. Parrott, of Real Betis, opened the scoring in style after 12 minutes of the Group B3 encounter in Dublin, before tennis balls were thrown onto the pitch by those protesting Ireland's games against Israel, forcing a break in play. Later in the first half a man carrying a Palestinian flag got on the pitch before being stopped by security. Parrott scored again from the penalty spot to double Ireland's lead by the interval, but second-half goals by Alexander Prass and Michael Gregoritsch earned Austria a draw. Ralf Rangnick's team top the section with seven points, three more than both Ireland and Kosovo, who drew 0-0 with Israel in a game played in Hungary. Friday sees Zinedine Zidane's homecoming as he leads France out on home soil for the first time in their match with Italy.

Portugal Coach Jorge Jesus said before kick-off that he just wanted his side "to focus on the match", and they did not appear distracted as they scored some superb goals to win the Group A4 clash at the Parken Stadium.

Nations League: Portugal brush aside Ronaldo's absence for win; Klopp gets first victory as Germany coach

Five-time world champions Brazil arrived in Kolkata on Wednesday evening under tight security, beginning their stay ahead of Saturday's much-anticipated friendly against India. The Brazilian contingent landed at around 8:45pm and left through the VIP gate in two buses painted in the Selecao's trademark yellow and green. Two pilot cars led the convoy to the team's hotel on EM Bypass near Science City, while six private vehicles carried other officials.&nbsp;With security arrangements at their highest level, police prevented fans from gathering near the airport or lining the roads along the team's route. Only a small number of supporters managed to catch a glimpse of the Brazilian players. The touring contingent, comprising around 90 people, had an 11-minute window to exit the airport. Police had also planned an eight-minute window for the convoy to reach the hotel. Security was subsequently tightened around the team hotel, with people not associated with the Brazilian delegation kept away from the premises.<h2>Vini gets biggest cheers</h2>Despite the restrictions, the excitement surrounding Brazil's arrival was evident inside the hotel. Real Madrid forward Vinicius Junior, wearing a yellow hat, received the loudest cheers as chants of ‘Vini, Vini’ rang out through the lobby. The players were seen wearing olive-green hoodies, shorts and yellow caps as they entered the hotel. Brazil, however, arrived without Barcelona forward Raphinha. The winger suffered a right-thigh niggle during Brazil's 4-2 victory over Australia and has returned to Spain for treatment. Brazil coach Carlo Ancelotti and one player will attend the pre-match press conference at the team hotel on Friday morning. The team will then train at Salt Lake Stadium from 4pm as preparations for the India game continue.&nbsp;Also Read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/fifty-years-after-pel-kolkata-hosts-brazil-where-is-bengal-s-own-football-legacy-1790882230630">Fifty years after Pelé, Kolkata hosts Brazil. Where is Bengal's own football legacy?</a><h2>Watch the video here</h2>

<blockquote class="twitter-tweet" data-media-max-width="560">Kolkata, West Bengal: The Brazil football team arrives in Kolkata ahead of their international friendly against India, scheduled for Saturday evening at the Yuva Bharati Krirangan <a href="https://t.co/xGKgfidlxd">pic.twitter.com/xGKgfidlxd</a>&mdash; IANS (@ians_india) <a href="https://x.com/ians_india/status/2105689748543299739?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">October 1, 2026</a></blockquote> <script async src="https://platform.x.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script>

<h2>Brazil bring special food arrangements</h2>The Selecao have also brought their own chef and hygiene manager to Kolkata, with extensive arrangements made to meet the team's dietary requirements. Meat, cheese and even water have been brought in for the squad, while the hotel has made special provisions for food preparation and storage. "They have a 30-minute window to prepare and consume the food. We will use only Bhetki fish for them. The rest of the meat products, mainly turkey, chicken and lamb, are all imported," a hotel official said. The arrangements highlight the detailed planning involved in hosting one of the world's biggest football teams, with Brazil's staff overseeing everything from food and hygiene to training and preparations.<h2>India's World Cup-level test</h2>The India-Brazil friendly is part of the Blue Tigers' series of matches against World Cup heavyweights. India began the series with a September 25 fixture against Panama in Bengaluru. They will then face two-time world champions Uruguay, coached by former Brazil star Diego Forlan, on October 6. The Blue Tigers are also scheduled to travel to New Zealand for two more friendlies in November. For Brazil, the India game will be their final fixture of the international break. The Selecao arrive in Kolkata after beating Australia 4-2.

<blockquote class="twitter-tweet" data-media-max-width="560">The Brazil squad arrive at the team hotel in Kolkata ahead of an international friendly against India 🇧🇷🇮🇳 <a href="https://t.co/yJv4LLqH2s">pic.twitter.com/yJv4LLqH2s</a>&mdash; Sky Sports Football (@SkyFootball) <a href="https://x.com/SkyFootball/status/2105737491324018795?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">October 1, 2026</a></blockquote> <script async src="https://platform.x.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script>

<h2>Salt Lake Stadium gets makeover</h2>The Yuva Bharati Krirangan, popularly known as Salt Lake Stadium, has received a fresh makeover ahead of the upcoming fixtures. The stadium has been given a fresh coat of paint, while the playing surface has been revamped with the involvement of Brazilian turf expert Ivan Nascimento. The venue, which hosted matches during the 2017 FIFA U-17 World Cup, will stage Brazil and Uruguay's respective matches against India. With the Selecao now in Kolkata, attention turns to Friday's press conference and training session before Brazil take on India on Saturday.

Brazil arrive in Kolkata ahead of their India friendly. Vinicius Junior gets loud cheers as tight security and special food arrangements take centre stage

Five-time world champions Brazil arrived in Kolkata on Wednesday evening under tight security, beginning their stay ahead of Saturday's much-anticipated friendly against India. The Brazilian contingent landed at around 8:45pm and left through the VIP gate in two buses painted in the Selecao's trademark yellow and green. Two pilot cars led the convoy to the team's hotel on EM Bypass near Science City, while six private vehicles carried other officials. With security arrangements at their highest level, police prevented fans from gathering near the airport or lining the roads along the team's route. Only a small number of supporters managed to catch a glimpse of the Brazilian players. The touring contingent, comprising around 90 people, had an 11-minute window to exit the airport. Police had also planned an eight-minute window for the convoy to reach the hotel. Security was subsequently tightened around the team hotel, with people not associated with the Brazilian delegation kept away from the premises. Vini gets biggest cheers Despite the restrictions, the excitement surrounding Brazil's arrival was evident inside the hotel. Real Madrid forward Vinicius Junior, wearing a yellow hat, received the loudest cheers as chants of ‘Vini, Vini’ rang out through the lobby. The players were seen wearing olive-green hoodies, shorts and yellow caps as they entered the hotel. Brazil, however, arrived without Barcelona forward Raphinha. The winger suffered a right-thigh niggle during Brazil's 4-2 victory over Australia and has returned to Spain for treatment. Brazil coach Carlo Ancelotti and one player will attend the pre-match press conference at the team hotel on Friday morning. The team will then train at Salt Lake Stadium from 4pm as preparations for the India game continue. Also Read: Fifty years after Pelé, Kolkata hosts Brazil. Where is Bengal's own football legacy? Watch the video here

Brazil football team arrived in Kolkata ahead of Saturday's India friendly, with tight security, cheers for Vinicius Junior and special food arrangements grabbing attention

WATCH | Vini, Vini! Vinicius Junior gets biggest cheers as Brazil touch down in Kolkata

When Carlo Ancelotti's Brazil landed in Kolkata on Thursday, the city had its first glimpse of the five-time world champions in nearly five decades. Saturday's friendly against India, at the Salt Lake Stadium, is one of three fixtures in the window. India play Brazil on October 3 and Uruguay on October 6, both in Kolkata. One of Bengal's football icons is watching the celebrations from outside.&nbsp;Gautam Sarkar, the former India international and ex-captain of both Mohun Bagan and East Bengal, man-marked Pelé on September 24, 1977, says he has not been invited.<h2>The man who marked Pelé</h2>On September 24, 1977, nearly 80,000 fans packed Eden Gardens to watch Pelé's New York Cosmos play Mohun Bagan. Coach P.K. Banerjee gave the midfielder the job of man-marking the Brazilian great. A photograph of Sarkar tackling Pelé made the front pages the next day, and still has pride of place in his home.&nbsp;Pelé noticed. Sarkar later recalled the great man telling him he was the number 14 who "did not allow me to move," and said he was left "awe-struck." A former India international who went on to captain both East Bengal and Mohun Bagan, Sarkar told WION that Brazil's visit is "historic." He said, however, that no one has acknowledged him ahead of it.&nbsp;Speaking exclusively to WION, Sarkar welcomed Brazil's arrival.&nbsp;“It is a great moment for all of us,” he said. “Brazil is Brazil. Whether they lose or win doesn't matter; they are five-time champions.”&nbsp;Asked about being left off the guest list, he said: “It doesn’t matter to me, but it is very unfortunate. It is time to recognise our own players as well.”&nbsp;“A long-term project”&nbsp;His message goes beyond personal disappointment. Spectacle, he argues, is no substitute for grassroots investment, proper coaching and club support for young players. He also says political will has been missing.&nbsp;Sarkar's sharper criticism is aimed at how Bengal treats its young players. West Bengal has won the Santosh Trophy 32 times, more than any other team. Yet he says the state that once supplied seven or eight players to the national side now sends only one or two. In 2022, India played a tournament without a single Bengali player for the first time.&nbsp;“Till today, whether from the association, the government sector or the private sector, we have not been able to take any such long-term step,” Sarkar said. “Grassroots-level players, the talent of tomorrow, are still being deprived.”&nbsp;His prescription starts with selection: “It must be impartial and honest.” Then comes grooming.&nbsp;“Basically, honing their skills and grooming them. It is a long-term project. And it should not be fixed only in one particular state.”&nbsp;Asked whether political will was lacking, he replied: “Maybe. Bengal has such an affinity for football that priority must be given. There is a lot of talent in West Bengal”.&nbsp;On the new state government, he urged patience but not complacency.“Only to bring Brazil, only to bring Uruguay is not the solution,” he said. “This is the time we should think about how we are developing our own players.”&nbsp;Also Read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/family-of-renee-good-killed-in-immigration-crackdown-sues-us-government-and-ice-agent-1790873344147">Family of Renee Good, killed in immigration crackdown, sues US government and ICE agent</a><h2>The compliment of a lifetime</h2>Sarkar still remembers the build-up to 1977.&nbsp;“It was absolutely out of our imagination,” he said. Pelé's side had already played national teams from Korea, China and Japan on the tour, before arriving in Kolkata.&nbsp;His own assignment came with a caveat.&nbsp;“Pelé is not going to stay in one place on a 120 by 80 yard field,” he recalled telling his teammates.&nbsp;After the match, Pelé took the microphone and praised Mohun Bagan's performance. When Sarkar's name was announced, Pelé recognised him as the player wearing number 14. Sarkar says the moment “will really stay with me till my death.”&nbsp;Legendary footballer Chuni Goswami then told him to retire on that high. Sarkar's response was to keep playing.&nbsp;“This compliment has given me great courage and encouragement, so that I will try to continue another 10 years,” he recalled.&nbsp;Sarkar, who once refused to be overawed by Pelé, offers the same advice to today's players. His tip: don't be a fanboy. His larger question is whether the city that celebrates Brazil will invest in the players it needs.

As Brazil returns to Kolkata nearly 50 years after Pelé's visit, former India international Gautam Sarkar recalls marking the football legend and calls for greater recognition and long term investment in Bengal's own football talent.

When Carlo Ancelotti's Brazil landed in Kolkata on Thursday, the city had its first glimpse of the five-time world champions in nearly five decades. Saturday's friendly against India, at the Salt Lake Stadium, is one of three fixtures in the window. India play Brazil on October 3 and Uruguay on October 6, both in Kolkata. One of Bengal's football icons is watching the celebrations from outside. Gautam Sarkar, the former India international and ex-captain of both Mohun Bagan and East Bengal, man-marked Pelé on September 24, 1977, says he has not been invited. The man who marked Pelé On September 24, 1977, nearly 80,000 fans packed Eden Gardens to watch Pelé's New York Cosmos play Mohun Bagan. Coach P.K. Banerjee gave the midfielder the job of man-marking the Brazilian great. A photograph of Sarkar tackling Pelé made the front pages the next day, and still has pride of place in his home. Pelé noticed. Sarkar later recalled the great man telling him he was the number 14 who "did not allow me to move," and said he was left "awe-struck." A former India international who went on to captain both East Bengal and Mohun Bagan, Sarkar told WION that Brazil's visit is "historic." He said, however, that no one has acknowledged him ahead of it. Speaking exclusively to WION, Sarkar welcomed Brazil's arrival. “It is a great moment for all of us,” he said. “Brazil is Brazil. Whether they lose or win doesn't matter; they are five-time champions.” Asked about being left off the guest list, he said: “It doesn’t matter to me, but it is very unfortunate. It is time to recognise our own players as well.” “A long-term project” His message goes beyond personal disappointment. Spectacle, he argues, is no substitute for grassroots investment, proper coaching and club support for young players. He also says political will has been missing. Sarkar's sharper criticism is aimed at how Bengal treats its young players. West Bengal has won the Santosh Trophy 32 times, more than any other team. Yet he says the state that once supplied seven or eight players to the national side now sends only one or two. In 2022, India played a tournament without a single Bengali player for the first time. “Till today, whether from the association, the government sector or the private sector, we have not been able to take any such long-term step,” Sarkar said. “Grassroots-level players, the talent of tomorrow, are still being deprived.” His prescription starts with selection: “It must be impartial and honest.” Then comes grooming. “Basically, honing their skills and grooming them. It is a long-term project. And it should not be fixed only in one particular state.” Asked whether political will was lacking, he replied: “Maybe. Bengal has such an affinity for football that priority must be given. There is a lot of talent in West Bengal”. On the new state government, he urged patience but not complacency. “Only to bring Brazil, only to bring Uruguay is not the solution,” he said. “This is the time we should think about how we are developing our own players.” Also Read: Family of Renee Good, killed in immigration crackdown, sues US government and ICE agent The compliment of a lifetime Sarkar still remembers the build-up to 1977. “It was absolutely out of our imagination,” he said. Pelé's side had already played national teams from Korea, China and Japan on the tour, before arriving in Kolkata. His own assignment came with a caveat. “Pelé is not going to stay in one place on a 120 by 80 yard field,” he recalled telling his teammates. After the match, Pelé took the microphone and praised Mohun Bagan's performance. When Sarkar's name was announced, Pelé recognised him as the player wearing number 14. Sarkar says the moment “will really stay with me till my death.” Legendary footballer Chuni Goswami then told him to retire on that high. Sarkar's response was to keep playing. “This compliment has given me great courage and encouragement, so that I will try to continue another 10 years,” he recalled. Sarkar, who once refused to be overawed by Pelé, offers the same advice to today's players. His tip: don't be a fanboy. His larger question is whether the city that celebrates Brazil will invest in the players it needs.

As Brazil returns to Kolkata nearly 50 years after Pelé's visit, former India international Gautam Sarkar recalls marking the football legend and calls for greater recognition and long-term investment in Bengal's own football talent.

Fifty years after Pelé, Kolkata hosts Brazil. Where is Bengal's own football legacy?

The ODI World Cup 2027 schedule is out, and India will take on defending champions Australia in a rematch of the last edition's final to kick-start the group stage of the quadrennial event on October 7 at Newlands, Cape Town, South Africa . The 14-team tournament will be played from October 2, with the final set for November 21 along with a reserve day . Eight top-ranked teams - India, Australia, New Zealand, Pakistan, Sri Lanka, Bangladesh, Afghanistan, and England - gained direct entry, while South Africa and Zimbabwe qualified as co-hosts. The remaining four teams will be decided via a 10-team tournament early next year.<h2>How does the ODI World Cup 2027 schedule work?</h2>The tournament begins with a Super Series among three teams, which will be decided by the 10-team qualifying tournament . The winner of that tournament will gain direct entry into the group stage, while the runners-up and the two losing semi-finalists will play the Super Series from October 2 to October 6 in Windhoek, Namibia - also a co-host - where the winner will become the final team to qualify for the group stage.Also Read - <a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/asian-games-2026-india-demolish-sri-lanka-to-set-up-men-s-cricket-gold-medal-match-vs-pakistan-1790841164067">Asian Games 2026: IND demolish SL to set up men's cricket gold medal game vs PAK</a>Once the 12 teams are finalised, they will be divided into two groups of six teams each. Group A will feature Afghanistan, Australia, India, Pakistan, and Zimbabwe, along with Qualifier A, while Group B consists of New Zealand, South Africa, Sri Lanka, England, Bangladesh, and Qualifier B.After the group stage, the top three teams from each group will move to the Super 7, with the seventh team being the best-placed fourth-placed team across both groups. The top four teams after the Super 7 stage will advance to the semi-finals, with the top two advancing to the final at The Wanderers, Johannesburg - the venue of the 2003 final between India and Australia.

<blockquote class="twitter-tweet">𝙈𝘼𝙍𝙆 𝙔𝙊𝙐𝙍 𝘾𝘼𝙇𝙀𝙉𝘿𝘼𝙍𝙎 🗓️

The ICC Men’s #CWC27 fixtures have been unveiled 🏆

Access the ticket ballot 🎫 https://t.co/MSLEQzcObb https://t.co/dpTE4TEjO7&mdash; ICC (@ICC) <a href="https://x.com/ICC/status/2105686839827034384?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">October 1, 2026</a></blockquote>
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<h2>When is the India vs Pakistan match in the ODI World Cup 2027?</h2>The marquee India vs Pakistan match in the group stage of the ODI World Cup 2027 will be played on October 10 at The Wanderers, Johannesburg.“South Africa, Zimbabwe, and Namibia will provide an unforgettable stage for the world’s best teams, combining a deep passion for cricket, extraordinary destinations, and a renowned warmth of welcome. We look forward to welcoming fans from across the world and creating memories that will last long beyond the final," said ICC Chairman Jay Shah at the launch of the schedule.&nbsp;

The 2027 ODI World Cup runs Oct 2–Nov 21 in Africa. India face Australia on Oct 7 in Cape Town, followed by India vs Pakistan on Oct 10 in Johannesburg. Top 7 teams advance to the Super 7 phase.

The ODI World Cup 2027 schedule is out, and India will take on defending champions Australia in a rematch of the last edition's final to kick-start the group stage of the quadrennial event on October 7 at Newlands, Cape Town, South Africa . The 14-team tournament will be played from October 2, with the final set for November 21 along with a reserve day . Eight top-ranked teams - India, Australia, New Zealand, Pakistan, Sri Lanka, Bangladesh, Afghanistan, and England - gained direct entry, while South Africa and Zimbabwe qualified as co-hosts. The remaining four teams will be decided via a 10-team tournament early next year. How does the ODI World Cup 2027 schedule work? The tournament begins with a Super Series among three teams, which will be decided by the 10-team qualifying tournament . The winner of that tournament will gain direct entry into the group stage, while the runners-up and the two losing semi-finalists will play the Super Series from October 2 to October 6 in Windhoek, Namibia - also a co-host - where the winner will become the final team to qualify for the group stage. Also Read - Asian Games 2026: IND demolish SL to set up men's cricket gold medal game vs PAK Once the 12 teams are finalised, they will be divided into two groups of six teams each. Group A will feature Afghanistan, Australia, India, Pakistan, and Zimbabwe, along with Qualifier A, while Group B consists of New Zealand, South Africa, Sri Lanka, England, Bangladesh, and Qualifier B. After the group stage, the top three teams from each group will move to the Super 7, with the seventh team being the best-placed fourth-placed team across both groups. The top four teams after the Super 7 stage will advance to the semi-finals, with the top two advancing to the final at The Wanderers, Johannesburg - the venue of the 2003 final between India and Australia.

The 2027 ODI World Cup runs Oct 2–Nov 21 in Africa. India face Australia on Oct 7 in Cape Town, followed by India vs Pakistan on Oct 10 in Johannesburg. Top 7 teams advance to the Super 7 phase.

ODI World Cup 2027: IND vs AUS to kick off group stage in 2023 final rematch; IND vs PAK on October 10

India survived a huge scare from Pakistan to enter the men's hockey final at the Asian Games 2026 on Thursday (Oct 1). India were 3-0 ahead after the first half-hour of the game before Pakistan struck back and erased the deficit completely. India, however, held their nerve to score a late winner in the 60th minute to book a berth in the gold medal match. India will now face the winner of the second semi-final between Malaysia and Korea for the hockey gold.<h2>India Survive Pak Scare to Enter Men's Hockey Final</h2>India started the match against their arch-rivals well as Harmanpreet Singh scored the first goal from a penalty corner in the 5th minute. India doubled their lead within eight minutes as Harmanpreet again scored from a penalty corner. Sukhjeet Singh then scored 10 minutes later, in the 23rd minute, to put India 3-0 ahead.Also Read - <a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/india-batter-rohit-sharma-shares-immediate-goal-ahead-of-odi-world-cup-2027-chances-1790852665024">India batter Rohit Sharma shares 'immediate goal' ahead of ODI World Cup 2027 chances</a>Pakistan, who were out of the match until that point, then struck back with three goals of their own. Ammad Butt scored in the 38th minute, and Hanan Shahid in the 45th minute, before Waheed Rana scored the equaliser in the 49th minute.Abhishek then scored the winner in the 60th minute as India survived a scare and won the thriller 4-3.<h2>IND vs PAK in meen's cricket gold match</h2>India fought their way into the final of the Asian Games 2026 men's cricket event after crushing Sri Lanka. India bowled out the Islanders for a paltry score of 45 runs to win the match by 124 runs at Korogi Sports Park in Nisshin on Thursday (Oct 1). In the final, defending gold medallists India will face arch-rivals Pakistan in a blockbuster contest. The gold medal match is scheduled for Saturday (Oct 3).

India edged Pakistan 4-3 to reach the Asian Games 2026 hockey final. India squandered a 3-0 lead as Pakistan leveled 3-3, before Abhishek netted a dramatic 60th-minute winner to seal the victory.

India survived a huge scare from Pakistan to enter the men's hockey final at the Asian Games 2026 on Thursday (Oct 1). India were 3-0 ahead after the first half-hour of the game before Pakistan struck back and erased the deficit completely. India, however, held their nerve to score a late winner in the 60th minute to book a berth in the gold medal match. India will now face the winner of the second semi-final between Malaysia and Korea for the hockey gold. India Survive Pak Scare to Enter Men's Hockey Final India started the match against their arch-rivals well as Harmanpreet Singh scored the first goal from a penalty corner in the 5th minute. India doubled their lead within eight minutes as Harmanpreet again scored from a penalty corner. Sukhjeet Singh then scored 10 minutes later, in the 23rd minute, to put India 3-0 ahead. Also Read - India batter Rohit Sharma shares 'immediate goal' ahead of ODI World Cup 2027 chances Pakistan, who were out of the match until that point, then struck back with three goals of their own. Ammad Butt scored in the 38th minute, and Hanan Shahid in the 45th minute, before Waheed Rana scored the equaliser in the 49th minute. Abhishek then scored the winner in the 60th minute as India survived a scare and won the thriller 4-3. IND vs PAK in meen's cricket gold match India fought their way into the final of the Asian Games 2026 men's cricket event after crushing Sri Lanka. India bowled out the Islanders for a paltry score of 45 runs to win the match by 124 runs at Korogi Sports Park in Nisshin on Thursday (Oct 1). In the final, defending gold medallists India will face arch-rivals Pakistan in a blockbuster contest. The gold medal match is scheduled for Saturday (Oct 3).

India edged Pakistan 4-3 to reach the Asian Games 2026 hockey final. India squandered a 3-0 lead as Pakistan leveled 3-3, before Abhishek netted a dramatic 60th-minute winner to seal the victory.

Asian Games 2026: India survive Pakistan fightback for place in gold medal match of men's hockey

Rohit Sharma took India to the brink of an ODI World Cup win in 2023 before Australia broke Indian hearts in the final. Rohit was 36 at that time, and now he's preparing for the ODI World Cup 2027. The 39-year-old, who now only plays in the 50-over format for India, showed what he can do during the second ODI against the West Indies in Guwahati on Wednesday (Sep 30). Rohit hit 101 in an opening partnership of 255 with skipper Shubman Gill as India chased down 406 - the second-highest chase in ODIs.<h2>Rohit Shares Thoughts on Road to ODI World Cup 2027</h2>The former skipper is one of only three Indian batters to cross the 12,000-run mark in ODIs, alongside Virat Kohli and Sachin Tendulkar. His 35 ODI hundreds are also the third most for India, again behind Sachin and Kohli. Ahead of the second ODI against the West Indies, Rohit spoke to JioStar about his plans for the ODI World Cup 2027 and said that he's focused on what's in front of him.Also Read - <a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/asian-games-2026-india-demolish-sri-lanka-to-set-up-men-s-cricket-gold-medal-match-vs-pakistan-1790841164067">Asian Games 2026: India demolish Sri Lanka to set up men's cricket gold medal match vs Pakistan</a>"What I want to manifest is that I keep myself capable enough until 2027, so keep myself fit, keep working hard, and keep performing well in every tournament that comes up. This is what I need to think about and this is what I need to do. So, I think my immediate goal is that whatever is in front of me right now, I do that properly. Because thinking about next October right now is not going to help me play my game."What will help me is to stay in the present, keep ticking every box that comes my way, and then keep moving forward. In life, I've progressed step by step like this, so right now I have to do the same. So basically, what I mean is that I don't need to change anything. The way my journey has been so far, I want to keep driving it the same way. Keep working hard on my batting, keep working hard on my fitness, help the boys in the team, give input wherever it's needed, that's all."

Following a century in India's record 406-run chase against West Indies, 39-year-old Rohit Sharma shared his plan to stay fit and focus on short-term goals on the road to the ODI World Cup 2027.

Rohit Sharma took India to the brink of an ODI World Cup win in 2023 before Australia broke Indian hearts in the final. Rohit was 36 at that time, and now he's preparing for the ODI World Cup 2027. The 39-year-old, who now only plays in the 50-over format for India, showed what he can do during the second ODI against the West Indies in Guwahati on Wednesday (Sep 30). Rohit hit 101 in an opening partnership of 255 with skipper Shubman Gill as India chased down 406 - the second-highest chase in ODIs. Rohit Shares Thoughts on Road to ODI World Cup 2027 The former skipper is one of only three Indian batters to cross the 12,000-run mark in ODIs, alongside Virat Kohli and Sachin Tendulkar. His 35 ODI hundreds are also the third most for India, again behind Sachin and Kohli. Ahead of the second ODI against the West Indies, Rohit spoke to JioStar about his plans for the ODI World Cup 2027 and said that he's focused on what's in front of him. Also Read - Asian Games 2026: India demolish Sri Lanka to set up men's cricket gold medal match vs Pakistan "What I want to manifest is that I keep myself capable enough until 2027, so keep myself fit, keep working hard, and keep performing well in every tournament that comes up. This is what I need to think about and this is what I need to do. So, I think my immediate goal is that whatever is in front of me right now, I do that properly. Because thinking about next October right now is not going to help me play my game. "What will help me is to stay in the present, keep ticking every box that comes my way, and then keep moving forward. In life, I've progressed step by step like this, so right now I have to do the same. So basically, what I mean is that I don't need to change anything. The way my journey has been so far, I want to keep driving it the same way. Keep working hard on my batting, keep working hard on my fitness, help the boys in the team, give input wherever it's needed, that's all."

Following a century in India's record 406-run chase against West Indies, 39-year-old Rohit Sharma shared his plan to stay fit and focus on short-term goals on the road to the ODI World Cup 2027.

India batter Rohit Sharma shares 'immediate goal' ahead of ODI World Cup 2027 chances

Indian footballer Lenny Rodrigues is now at a stage of his career where he has seen everything - from the lack of facilities when he started to the rise of Indian football over the last two decades at the grassroots level. Lenny, who is a Goa native, played 22 matches for India between 2012 and 2015. He currently plays for Thrissur Magic FC in the Super League Kerala and spoke to WION at length about his career, the importance of playing against big teams, his advice to youngsters, and more.When you started playing football nearly two decades ago compared to now, what would you say has changed over the years in Indian football?When I started playing football, we faced many difficulties around infrastructure, grounds, and facilities compared to what we are getting now. Nowadays, we are getting good pitches to play on, and academies and grassroots programs are very good. Earlier, it was difficult to even get a club.How do you think state-based leagues like Super League Kerala can help develop Indian football at the grassroots level and support budding footballers?It's a great initiative by the owners who took the responsibility to take this Super League Kerala tournament forward. And it's a great opportunity for the players to showcase their talent because with tournaments like these, you are being broadcast live so people all over the world can watch you. It's a good platform for young, budding players from Kerala and other states as well.Also Read - <a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/we-need-fans-indian-forward-daniel-lalhlimpuia-calls-for-stadium-support-to-grow-football-ahead-of-brazil-uruguay-friendlies-1790759346768">'We need fans': Indian forward Daniel Lalhlimpuia calls for stadium support to grow football ahead of Brazil, Uruguay friendlies</a>Talking about upcoming Indian football matches against Brazil and Uruguay - how do these opportunities help both sets of players: those in the national squad and those who are not?First of all, it's a big motivation to play against a big team. Playing for the national team is always the first priority, and for me, playing for the national team is one of my biggest achievements. For the players who are playing for the national team, they have to give about 200 percent. These kinds of matches are a once-in-a-lifetime opportunity for players to show their talent and go further in their careers. And for those who are not playing, it's a learning experience - meaning you have to watch the players who are doing well, watch them grow, and give your best when you get your chance.At this stage of your career, how do you prepare for matches and what are your expectations for this season of Super League Kerala?My expectations are always the same - I want to give my best for the club and win a trophy. This is my aim because whenever I have played in my career, I have always felt like a winner, so my motivation is always high. At this stage, I'm giving my best every day in training along with getting proper rest and nutrition so that I can maintain my fitness level.What is one thing that you would like to see improve in Indian football so that we can become a top-flight nation?At the grassroots level, we are doing very well. As young players grow, they need opportunities like the Super League Kerala. This is a good idea, and players need more tournaments in India to show their strength. It would also be better to expand the setup into a bigger league so that every player gets an opportunity and can grow the same way other players (part of tournaments like the ISL) are growing. We need more matches to compete.What advice do you want to give to up-and-coming players?When you reach a higher level, you need to give 200%. Having played for the national team, I know the level of other international teams. Today, players get everything - there is no need to worry about food or anything, and the infrastructure is good as well. But the main thing is that you have to focus and dream about what you are doing.It's not just about playing. Sometimes you have to make sacrifices, like avoiding parties and functions. So for the young players - just keep doing the hard work and chase your dreams.

Former India international Lenny Rodrigues discusses the growth of Indian football, how Super League Kerala aids grassroots development, and the sacrifices young players must make to succeed.

Indian footballer Lenny Rodrigues is now at a stage of his career where he has seen everything - from the lack of facilities when he started to the rise of Indian football over the last two decades at the grassroots level. Lenny, who is a Goa native, played 22 matches for India between 2012 and 2015. He currently plays for Thrissur Magic FC in the Super League Kerala and spoke to WION at length about his career, the importance of playing against big teams, his advice to youngsters, and more. When you started playing football nearly two decades ago compared to now, what would you say has changed over the years in Indian football? When I started playing football, we faced many difficulties around infrastructure, grounds, and facilities compared to what we are getting now. Nowadays, we are getting good pitches to play on, and academies and grassroots programs are very good. Earlier, it was difficult to even get a club. How do you think state-based leagues like Super League Kerala can help develop Indian football at the grassroots level and support budding footballers? It's a great initiative by the owners who took the responsibility to take this Super League Kerala tournament forward. And it's a great opportunity for the players to showcase their talent because with tournaments like these, you are being broadcast live so people all over the world can watch you. It's a good platform for young, budding players from Kerala and other states as well. Also Read - 'We need fans': Indian forward Daniel Lalhlimpuia calls for stadium support to grow football ahead of Brazil, Uruguay friendlies Talking about upcoming Indian football matches against Brazil and Uruguay - how do these opportunities help both sets of players: those in the national squad and those who are not? First of all, it's a big motivation to play against a big team. Playing for the national team is always the first priority, and for me, playing for the national team is one of my biggest achievements. For the players who are playing for the national team, they have to give about 200 percent. These kinds of matches are a once-in-a-lifetime opportunity for players to show their talent and go further in their careers. And for those who are not playing, it's a learning experience - meaning you have to watch the players who are doing well, watch them grow, and give your best when you get your chance. At this stage of your career, how do you prepare for matches and what are your expectations for this season of Super League Kerala? My expectations are always the same - I want to give my best for the club and win a trophy. This is my aim because whenever I have played in my career, I have always felt like a winner, so my motivation is always high. At this stage, I'm giving my best every day in training along with getting proper rest and nutrition so that I can maintain my fitness level. What is one thing that you would like to see improve in Indian football so that we can become a top-flight nation? At the grassroots level, we are doing very well. As young players grow, they need opportunities like the Super League Kerala. This is a good idea, and players need more tournaments in India to show their strength. It would also be better to expand the setup into a bigger league so that every player gets an opportunity and can grow the same way other players (part of tournaments like the ISL) are growing. We need more matches to compete. What advice do you want to give to up-and-coming players? When you reach a higher level, you need to give 200%. Having played for the national team, I know the level of other international teams. Today, players get everything - there is no need to worry about food or anything, and the infrastructure is good as well. But the main thing is that you have to focus and dream about what you are doing. It's not just about playing. Sometimes you have to make sacrifices, like avoiding parties and functions. So for the young players - just keep doing the hard work and chase your dreams.

Former India international Lenny Rodrigues discusses the growth of Indian football, how Super League Kerala aids grassroots development, and the sacrifices young players must make to succeed.

Former India player Lenny Rodrigues says football players 'need more tournaments'

India have fought their way into the final of the Asian Games 2026 men's cricket event after crushing Sri Lanka. India bowled out the Islanders for a paltry score of 45 runs to win the match by 124 runs at Korogi Sports Park in Nisshin on Thursday (Oct 1). In the final, defending gold medallists India will face arch-rivals Pakistan in a blockbuster contest. The gold medal match is scheduled for Saturday (Oct 3).<h2>Indian Bowlers Crush Sri Lanka in No Time</h2>After putting 169 runs on the board on a tricky pitch, Sri Lanka lost the plot in the first over of the chase as spearhead Jasprit Bumrah picked up two wickets in the first five balls before giving away a run. Axar Patel bowled the next over and picked up a wicket for 10 runs. In his second over, Bumrah gave away six runs. Axar then broke the backbone of the chase with a double-wicket maiden as Sri Lanka fell to 18/5. Such was the dominance of the Indian bowlers that only Nuwanidu Fernando (15) could reach double figures, while the next best was 11 extras conceded by India.Also Read - <a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/ind-vs-wi-2nd-odi-gambhir-not-amused-with-india-s-record-chase-calls-it-not-fair-1790825702697">IND vs WI, 2nd ODI: Gambhir not amused with India's record chase, calls it ‘not fair’</a><h2>India Batters Overcome Early Jolts to Put Up Formidable Total</h2>Batting first, three-time T20 world champions India lost Abhishek Sharma (7) and Sanju Samson (7) in the first three overs. Teenage prodigy Vaibhav Sooryavanshi (38) showed glimpses of his skills before getting out. Skipper Shreyas Iyer (13) was next to go without troubling the scorers much. Ishan Kishan then anchored the innings with an unbeaten 80 off 46 balls as India posted 169/7 in 20 overs.All eyes will be on the final match now as India and Pakistan, two rivals with a recent history of tension, face off for the first time since the T20 World Cup 2026, where India won by 61 runs in the group stage match. &nbsp;

India crushed Sri Lanka by 124 runs to reach the Asian Games 2026 cricket final. Ishan Kishan (80*) set up 169/7 before Bumrah and Axar shot out Sri Lanka for 45 to setup a gold medal match vs Pakistan.

India have fought their way into the final of the Asian Games 2026 men's cricket event after crushing Sri Lanka. India bowled out the Islanders for a paltry score of 45 runs to win the match by 124 runs at Korogi Sports Park in Nisshin on Thursday (Oct 1). In the final, defending gold medallists India will face arch-rivals Pakistan in a blockbuster contest. The gold medal match is scheduled for Saturday (Oct 3). Indian Bowlers Crush Sri Lanka in No Time After putting 169 runs on the board on a tricky pitch, Sri Lanka lost the plot in the first over of the chase as spearhead Jasprit Bumrah picked up two wickets in the first five balls before giving away a run. Axar Patel bowled the next over and picked up a wicket for 10 runs. In his second over, Bumrah gave away six runs. Axar then broke the backbone of the chase with a double-wicket maiden as Sri Lanka fell to 18/5. Such was the dominance of the Indian bowlers that only Nuwanidu Fernando (15) could reach double figures, while the next best was 11 extras conceded by India. Also Read - IND vs WI, 2nd ODI: Gambhir not amused with India's record chase, calls it ‘not fair’ India Batters Overcome Early Jolts to Put Up Formidable Total Batting first, three-time T20 world champions India lost Abhishek Sharma (7) and Sanju Samson (7) in the first three overs. Teenage prodigy Vaibhav Sooryavanshi (38) showed glimpses of his skills before getting out. Skipper Shreyas Iyer (13) was next to go without troubling the scorers much. Ishan Kishan then anchored the innings with an unbeaten 80 off 46 balls as India posted 169/7 in 20 overs. All eyes will be on the final match now as India and Pakistan, two rivals with a recent history of tension, face off for the first time since the T20 World Cup 2026, where India won by 61 runs in the group stage match.

India crushed Sri Lanka by 124 runs to reach the Asian Games 2026 cricket final. Ishan Kishan (80*) set up 169/7 before Bumrah and Axar shot out Sri Lanka for 45 to setup a gold medal match vs Pakistan.

Asian Games 2026: India demolish Sri Lanka to set up men's cricket gold medal match vs Pakistan

India's teenage cricket prodigy Vaibhav Sooryavanshi continues to scale new heights, but this time it is off the field. Sooryavanshi has been named in TIME magazine's TIME100 Next list of 'rising stars who are shaping the future' as one of seven athletes, the only cricketer, and the sole Indian athlete on the list. The 15-year-old's stock has risen rapidly ever since making his First-Class debut in the Ranji Trophy (India's premier red-ball multi-day tournament) in 2024 for Bihar at the age of 12. Sooryavanshi has been featured in the magazine's 'Phenom' category, with TIME stating that the batter "is fast becoming one of global sport’s most electrifying figures".Also Read - <a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/ind-vs-wi-2nd-odi-gambhir-not-amused-with-india-s-record-chase-calls-it-not-fair-1790825702697">IND vs WI, 2nd ODI: Gambhir not amused with India's record chase, calls it ‘not fair’</a><h2>Who Else Is on the List?</h2>Apart from Sooryavanshi, the other six athletes featured in the TIME100 Next list are:Arch Manning — American college football quarterback for the Texas LonghornsTyrese Maxey — Point guard for the NBA's Philadelphia 76ersNaomi Girma — Defender for the United States Women's National Soccer TeamAlexandra Eala — Women's tennis player from the PhilippinesFolarin Balogun — United States Men's National Soccer Team playerOlivia Miles — Guard for the WNBA's Minnesota Lynx<h2>Rise of Vaibhav Sooryavanshi</h2>Sooryavanshi has taken the cricketing world by storm since making his Ranji Trophy debut for Bihar in 2024. He was picked by IPL franchise Rajasthan Royals shortly after for INR 1 crore in 2025. In his maiden IPL season, he announced himself with a sensational hundred, despite playing only seven matches (252 runs at a strike rate of 206).In IPL 2026, Sooryavanshi upped the ante and smashed 776 runs to win the Orange Cap for most runs in the season, which came at a strike rate of 237. In the months after, Sooryavanshi made his India debut in the third T20I against England in July — making him the youngest player to play for India ever. So far, he has played six T20Is for India, smashing 193 runs at a strike rate of 189 with two fifties and a high score of 81.

15-year-old Indian cricket prodigy Vaibhav Sooryavanshi made the TIME100 Next list. The youngest India player ever won the IPL 2026 Orange Cap with 776 runs after making his First-Class debut at 12.

India's teenage cricket prodigy Vaibhav Sooryavanshi continues to scale new heights, but this time it is off the field. Sooryavanshi has been named in TIME magazine's TIME100 Next list of 'rising stars who are shaping the future' as one of seven athletes, the only cricketer, and the sole Indian athlete on the list. The 15-year-old's stock has risen rapidly ever since making his First-Class debut in the Ranji Trophy (India's premier red-ball multi-day tournament) in 2024 for Bihar at the age of 12. Sooryavanshi has been featured in the magazine's 'Phenom' category, with TIME stating that the batter "is fast becoming one of global sport’s most electrifying figures". Also Read - IND vs WI, 2nd ODI: Gambhir not amused with India's record chase, calls it ‘not fair’ Who Else Is on the List? Apart from Sooryavanshi, the other six athletes featured in the TIME100 Next list are: Arch Manning — American college football quarterback for the Texas Longhorns Tyrese Maxey — Point guard for the NBA's Philadelphia 76ers Naomi Girma — Defender for the United States Women's National Soccer Team Alexandra Eala — Women's tennis player from the Philippines Folarin Balogun — United States Men's National Soccer Team player Olivia Miles — Guard for the WNBA's Minnesota Lynx Rise of Vaibhav Sooryavanshi Sooryavanshi has taken the cricketing world by storm since making his Ranji Trophy debut for Bihar in 2024. He was picked by IPL franchise Rajasthan Royals shortly after for INR 1 crore in 2025. In his maiden IPL season, he announced himself with a sensational hundred, despite playing only seven matches (252 runs at a strike rate of 206). In IPL 2026, Sooryavanshi upped the ante and smashed 776 runs to win the Orange Cap for most runs in the season, which came at a strike rate of 237. In the months after, Sooryavanshi made his India debut in the third T20I against England in July — making him the youngest player to play for India ever. So far, he has played six T20Is for India, smashing 193 runs at a strike rate of 189 with two fifties and a high score of 81.

15-year-old Indian cricket prodigy Vaibhav Sooryavanshi made the TIME100 Next list. The youngest India player ever won the IPL 2026 Orange Cap with 776 runs after making his First-Class debut at 12.

Vaibhav Sooryavanshi, 15, named only Indian on TIME100 NEXT list alongside 6 global athletes

Pakistan beat Bangladesh by six wickets on Thursday (Oct 1) at Korogi Sports Park in Nisshin to enter the Asian Games 2026 men's cricket final. Chasing a 112-run target in a rain-shortened match, Pakistan took 11.3 overs to score the runs for the loss of four wickets. They were in trouble at one point with four wickets down for 53 runs in 6.3 overs, but Hasan Nawaz (27 not out) and Abdul Samad (30 not out off 15) added the remaining 59 runs in just 32 balls to take them home. Pakistan will now face the winner of the India vs Sri Lanka semi-final in the gold medal match on Saturday (Oct 3).<h2>Pakistan Enter Asian Games 2026 Men's Cricket Final</h2>Batting first, Bangladesh had a rocky start in the match as they lost three wickets - Tanzid Hasan (7), skipper Litton Das (2), and Parvez Hossain Emon (1) - for 31 runs in 3.2 overs. Saif Hassan (19) tried to build a partnership with Towhid Hridoy for a bit before getting out with the team score at 45. Hridoy's 42, however, pushed Bangladesh to the 100-run mark as they finished at 111/7 in 13 overs.Also Read - <a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/ind-vs-wi-2nd-odi-gambhir-not-amused-with-india-s-record-chase-calls-it-not-fair-1790825702697">IND vs WI, 2nd ODI: Gambhir not amused with India's record chase, calls it ‘not fair’</a>Chasing the target, Pakistan skipper Sahibzada Farhan (1) was dismissed on the last ball of the first over before his opening partner Maaz Sadaqat (15) was dismissed five balls later. Saim Ayub (21) was next to go as Pakistan fell to 38/3 in four overs, and Usman Khan's (14) wicket made it 53/4 before Nawaz and Samad won it for the Men in Green.<h2>What Was the Turning Point?</h2>Bangladesh were ahead until the ninth-over mark of the chase, with Pakistan needing 36 runs off 24 balls. Samad, however, then smashed 23 runs off Mustafizur Rahman's over - the 10th of the innings - to tilt the equation in Pakistan's favor. Needing 13 off the last 18 balls, Pakistan scored the remaining runs in nine balls to win the match.

Pakistan beat Bangladesh by six wickets in a 13-over Asian Games semi-final. Chasing 112, Pakistan recovered from 53/4 as Samad (30*) and Nawaz (27*) powered them to victory to reach the gold medal match.

Pakistan beat Bangladesh by six wickets on Thursday (Oct 1) at Korogi Sports Park in Nisshin to enter the Asian Games 2026 men's cricket final. Chasing a 112-run target in a rain-shortened match, Pakistan took 11.3 overs to score the runs for the loss of four wickets. They were in trouble at one point with four wickets down for 53 runs in 6.3 overs, but Hasan Nawaz (27 not out) and Abdul Samad (30 not out off 15) added the remaining 59 runs in just 32 balls to take them home. Pakistan will now face the winner of the India vs Sri Lanka semi-final in the gold medal match on Saturday (Oct 3). Pakistan Enter Asian Games 2026 Men's Cricket Final Batting first, Bangladesh had a rocky start in the match as they lost three wickets - Tanzid Hasan (7), skipper Litton Das (2), and Parvez Hossain Emon (1) - for 31 runs in 3.2 overs. Saif Hassan (19) tried to build a partnership with Towhid Hridoy for a bit before getting out with the team score at 45. Hridoy's 42, however, pushed Bangladesh to the 100-run mark as they finished at 111/7 in 13 overs. Also Read - IND vs WI, 2nd ODI: Gambhir not amused with India's record chase, calls it ‘not fair’ Chasing the target, Pakistan skipper Sahibzada Farhan (1) was dismissed on the last ball of the first over before his opening partner Maaz Sadaqat (15) was dismissed five balls later. Saim Ayub (21) was next to go as Pakistan fell to 38/3 in four overs, and Usman Khan's (14) wicket made it 53/4 before Nawaz and Samad won it for the Men in Green. What Was the Turning Point? Bangladesh were ahead until the ninth-over mark of the chase, with Pakistan needing 36 runs off 24 balls. Samad, however, then smashed 23 runs off Mustafizur Rahman's over - the 10th of the innings - to tilt the equation in Pakistan's favor. Needing 13 off the last 18 balls, Pakistan scored the remaining runs in nine balls to win the match.

Pakistan beat Bangladesh by six wickets in a 13-over Asian Games semi-final. Chasing 112, Pakistan recovered from 53/4 as Samad (30*) and Nawaz (27*) powered them to victory to reach the gold medal match.

Asian Games 2026: Pakistan beat Bangladesh to enter men's cricket final

India's record chase of 406 against the West Indies in the second ODI of the three-match series on Wednesday (Sep 30) has not amused head coach Gautam Gambhir at all. India surpassed the 400+ target with 39 balls and eight wickets to spare. This is also only the second time in the history of ODI cricket that a 400+ total has been chased successfully, with the only other instance being South Africa chasing down 434 against Australia. Gambhir, while acknowledging the batting prowess of both teams, said that the bowlers need to have something to work with on the pitch.<h2>Gambhir not amused with India's record chase</h2>Skipper Shubman Gill, who scored 223 not out, added 255 runs for the opening wicket with Rohit Sharma (101) in 26.2 overs to take the game away from the West Indies. Speaking to the broadcaster after the match, Gambhir said: "Look, if I have to be absolutely honest, I feel I think there has to be a bit of more contest between bat and ball, because I think you talk about cricket - but this is not cricket, this is only batting."Also Read - <a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/shubman-gill-223-all-records-broken-ind-vs-wi-2nd-odi-1790794610718">Shubman Gill's 223 vs WI: Every record broken in India’s highest-ever ODI chase</a>"When you bowl on this kind of a wicket, it's not fair for the bowlers. So we've got to give something to the bowlers so there's at least something which the bowlers can work with," he added.<h2>What next for India?</h2>After the last ODI against the West Indies on Saturday (Oct 3), India's next 50-over assignment will be in New Zealand. After playing the Kiwis, India will also play against Sri Lanka and Zimbabwe at home in ODIs, as per the current schedule. In between, however, there's the IPL and an Australian tour of India for the five-Test Border-Gavaskar Trophy at the start of next year. With the 2027 ODI World Cup nearly a year away, Gambhir acknowledged that there is less time to settle options."There is one year, but in that one year, three months will go into the IPL, three months will go into the India-Australia series," he said. "So after this series, we have barely 20 ODIs, and 20 ODIs aren't really that many ODIs, which includes three against Sri Lanka, three against Zimbabwe. I believe there isn't much time. So whatever we plan, whatever options we prepare, we will have to do it as quickly as possible."

Gautam Gambhir voiced frustration over bowler-unfriendly pitches after India’s record 406-run ODI chase against West Indies. With barely 20 ODIs left before World Cup 2027, he urged rapid team planning.

India's record chase of 406 against the West Indies in the second ODI of the three-match series on Wednesday (Sep 30) has not amused head coach Gautam Gambhir at all. India surpassed the 400+ target with 39 balls and eight wickets to spare. This is also only the second time in the history of ODI cricket that a 400+ total has been chased successfully, with the only other instance being South Africa chasing down 434 against Australia. Gambhir, while acknowledging the batting prowess of both teams, said that the bowlers need to have something to work with on the pitch. Gambhir not amused with India's record chase Skipper Shubman Gill, who scored 223 not out, added 255 runs for the opening wicket with Rohit Sharma (101) in 26.2 overs to take the game away from the West Indies. Speaking to the broadcaster after the match, Gambhir said: "Look, if I have to be absolutely honest, I feel I think there has to be a bit of more contest between bat and ball, because I think you talk about cricket - but this is not cricket, this is only batting." Also Read - Shubman Gill's 223 vs WI: Every record broken in India’s highest-ever ODI chase "When you bowl on this kind of a wicket, it's not fair for the bowlers. So we've got to give something to the bowlers so there's at least something which the bowlers can work with," he added. What next for India? After the last ODI against the West Indies on Saturday (Oct 3), India's next 50-over assignment will be in New Zealand. After playing the Kiwis, India will also play against Sri Lanka and Zimbabwe at home in ODIs, as per the current schedule. In between, however, there's the IPL and an Australian tour of India for the five-Test Border-Gavaskar Trophy at the start of next year. With the 2027 ODI World Cup nearly a year away, Gambhir acknowledged that there is less time to settle options. "There is one year, but in that one year, three months will go into the IPL, three months will go into the India-Australia series," he said. "So after this series, we have barely 20 ODIs, and 20 ODIs aren't really that many ODIs, which includes three against Sri Lanka, three against Zimbabwe. I believe there isn't much time. So whatever we plan, whatever options we prepare, we will have to do it as quickly as possible."

Gautam Gambhir voiced frustration over bowler-unfriendly pitches after India’s record 406-run ODI chase against West Indies. With barely 20 ODIs left before World Cup 2027, he urged rapid team planning.

IND vs WI, 2nd ODI: Gambhir not amused with India's record chase, calls it 'not fair'

The Swiss Football Association (SFV) announced Wednesday it was withdrawing its support for beleaguered incumbent Gianni Infantino in next year's FIFA presidential election. Several leading European national associations have pulled their support for Infantino, after he caused uproar in July with proposals to create a commercial subsidiary to run FIFA's biggest events, such as the World Cup and Club World Cup.Also Read - <a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/cristiano-ronaldo-to-retire-from-international-football-portuguese-star-says-i-wish-portugal-good-luck-and-will-reveal-truth-later-1790795679886">Cristiano Ronaldo to retire from international football? Portuguese star says 'I wish Portugal good luck and will reveal truth later'</a>The SFV's decision carries weight as Infantino is Swiss, and both FIFA and European football's governing body UEFA are based in Switzerland.The SFV said its executive board met on Friday and "decided to withdraw the support it had declared in June 2026 for Gianni Infantino's candidacy for a further term as FIFA president".Infantino's plan would have allowed private investors to acquire stakes in a company created under the FIFA Forward Enterprise (FFE) initiative. The backlash that followed led to the proposals being quickly shelved.The SFV said events in recent months raised fundamental questions over leadership, governance, transparency and decision-making processes with world football's governing body.It cited Infantino's FFE plans and the lifting of red-carded United States forward Folarin Balogun's one-match suspension during this year's World Cup, following a phone call to Infantino from US President Donald Trump.<h2>'Special responsibility'</h2>SFV president Peter Knabel said that Swiss football's governing body expected FIFA's leadership to uphold the highest standards of transparency, accountability and institutional responsibility.He said Infantino's proposals last week for "a consultation" with national federations to reform FIFA's governance sent an important signal, and could contribute to improving the situation.However, "key questions regarding the background, responsibilities and decision-making processes remain unanswered", said Knabel."As these have not been convincingly clarified, we cannot justify continuing to support Gianni Infantino's candidacy."UEFA -- the regional federation that represents World Cup holders Spain and football powerhouses such as France, England and Germany -- is leading the opposition to Infantino, calling openly for his removal.The SFV, a UEFA member, insisted its decision did not signal a move away from constructive cooperation within FIFA and the global football community.As the association for the country where FIFA and UEFA are based, "the SFV is aware of its special responsibility and will continue to champion transparency, credible and reliable structure, rules-based decision-making processes", it said.It called for a strong and united global football community characterised by integrity.Infantino retains the support of 2034 World Cup hosts Saudi Arabia, while African football's governing body CAF and South America's CONMEBOL are also supportive.Candidate nominations for next March's FIFA election must be submitted by November 18. Infantino is the only candidate so far.

The SFV's decision carries weight as Infantino is Swiss, and both FIFA and European football's governing body UEFA are based in Switzerlan

The Swiss Football Association (SFV) announced Wednesday it was withdrawing its support for beleaguered incumbent Gianni Infantino in next year's FIFA presidential election. Several leading European national associations have pulled their support for Infantino, after he caused uproar in July with proposals to create a commercial subsidiary to run FIFA's biggest events, such as the World Cup and Club World Cup. Also Read - Cristiano Ronaldo to retire from international football? Portuguese star says 'I wish Portugal good luck and will reveal truth later' The SFV's decision carries weight as Infantino is Swiss, and both FIFA and European football's governing body UEFA are based in Switzerland. The SFV said its executive board met on Friday and "decided to withdraw the support it had declared in June 2026 for Gianni Infantino's candidacy for a further term as FIFA president". Infantino's plan would have allowed private investors to acquire stakes in a company created under the FIFA Forward Enterprise (FFE) initiative. The backlash that followed led to the proposals being quickly shelved. The SFV said events in recent months raised fundamental questions over leadership, governance, transparency and decision-making processes with world football's governing body. It cited Infantino's FFE plans and the lifting of red-carded United States forward Folarin Balogun's one-match suspension during this year's World Cup, following a phone call to Infantino from US President Donald Trump. 'Special responsibility' SFV president Peter Knabel said that Swiss football's governing body expected FIFA's leadership to uphold the highest standards of transparency, accountability and institutional responsibility. He said Infantino's proposals last week for "a consultation" with national federations to reform FIFA's governance sent an important signal, and could contribute to improving the situation. However, "key questions regarding the background, responsibilities and decision-making processes remain unanswered", said Knabel. "As these have not been convincingly clarified, we cannot justify continuing to support Gianni Infantino's candidacy." UEFA -- the regional federation that represents World Cup holders Spain and football powerhouses such as France, England and Germany -- is leading the opposition to Infantino, calling openly for his removal. The SFV, a UEFA member, insisted its decision did not signal a move away from constructive cooperation within FIFA and the global football community. As the association for the country where FIFA and UEFA are based, "the SFV is aware of its special responsibility and will continue to champion transparency, credible and reliable structure, rules-based decision-making processes", it said. It called for a strong and united global football community characterised by integrity. Infantino retains the support of 2034 World Cup hosts Saudi Arabia, while African football's governing body CAF and South America's CONMEBOL are also supportive. Candidate nominations for next March's FIFA election must be submitted by November 18. Infantino is the only candidate so far.

The SFV's decision carries weight as Infantino is Swiss, and both FIFA and European football's governing body UEFA are based in Switzerland.

Swiss Football Association withdraws support for FIFA chief Infantino in next year's election

Cristiano Ronaldo has broken his silence over his decision to leave the Portugal camp ahead of the UEFA Nations League clash against Denmark, saying he will reveal the reasons behind his departure in due course. The Portugal captain issued a statement on his official social media accounts after leaving the national team's base in Denmark, with his private jet reportedly preparing to take him back to Madrid. "After the national team coach's press conference, and after a conversation with the president of the Portuguese Football Federation, I decided to leave the national team camp," Ronaldo wrote.&nbsp;He added, “In due course, I will tell all Portuguese people the truth about the reasons that led me to leave the national team to which I have always dedicated myself.” Ronaldo ended his statement by wishing the team and his teammates well. “Now is the right time to wish good luck to Portugal and to all my team-mates, without exception.”&nbsp;Also Read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/shubman-gill-223-all-records-broken-ind-vs-wi-2nd-odi-1790794610718">Shubman Gill's 223 vs WI: Every record broken in India’s highest-ever ODI chase</a>

<blockquote class="twitter-tweet">Após a conferência de imprensa do Selecionador Nacional, e no seguimento de uma conversa com o Presidente da Federação Portuguesa de Futebol, tomei a decisão de deixar o estágio da Seleção Nacional. A seu tempo, direi a verdade a todos os Portugueses sobre as razões que… <a href="https://t.co/j8Qrws9KTS">pic.twitter.com/j8Qrws9KTS</a>&mdash; Cristiano Ronaldo (@Cristiano) <a href="https://x.com/Cristiano/status/2105373136581546480?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">September 30, 2026</a></blockquote> <script async src="https://platform.x.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script>

The news came as Ronaldo spent a third consecutive day away from regular training, further increasing the tension surrounding the Portugal camp. The exit came just minutes after coach Jorge Jesus insisted during his pre-match press conference that Ronaldo would take part in the training session in Copenhagen. According to Portuguese newspaper A Bola, Ronaldo left Copenhagen's Parken stadium in a car belonging to the Portuguese Football Federation just as his teammates started coming onto the pitch. Francisco Conceicao was also absent.&nbsp;Jesus had earlier confirmed that Ronaldo would train but suggested that the 41-year-old striker could once again be left out of the starting XI. "Yesterday, he did not refuse to train," Jesus said. “Francisco Conceicao did not train because he was injured, and Joao Felix because we were trying to ease the fatigue, while Cristiano did work in the gym. Today he will train. It is the fourth day, so he will train.”&nbsp;The coach also made it clear that he would have the final say on team selection, regardless of the status or stature of any player. “I can promise what I want. I am the coach. I told the player that he would not start the match, and that he would be on the substitutes' bench. If I need him for 30 minutes he will play, and if I do not need him he will not play. No player will change my thinking, neither him nor anyone else in football, not even any president, that will never happen.”

Cristiano Ronaldo breaks his silence after leaving Portugal camp ahead of Denmark clash, promising to reveal the reasons behind his shock decision

Cristiano Ronaldo has broken his silence over his decision to leave the Portugal camp ahead of the UEFA Nations League clash against Denmark, saying he will reveal the reasons behind his departure in due course. The Portugal captain issued a statement on his official social media accounts after leaving the national team's base in Denmark, with his private jet reportedly preparing to take him back to Madrid. "After the national team coach's press conference, and after a conversation with the president of the Portuguese Football Federation, I decided to leave the national team camp," Ronaldo wrote. He added, “In due course, I will tell all Portuguese people the truth about the reasons that led me to leave the national team to which I have always dedicated myself.” Ronaldo ended his statement by wishing the team and his teammates well. “Now is the right time to wish good luck to Portugal and to all my team-mates, without exception.” Also Read: Shubman Gill's 223 vs WI: Every record broken in India’s highest-ever ODI chase

Cristiano Ronaldo breaks his silence after leaving Portugal camp ahead of Denmark clash, saying he will reveal the reasons behind his decision later

Cristiano Ronaldo to retire from international football? Portuguese star says 'I wish Portugal good luck and will reveal truth later'

Indian captain Shubman Gill was on a rampage on Wednesday (Sep 30) in Guwahati, smashing a sensational unbeaten 223* against the West Indies in the second ODI. Alongside Rohit Sharma, who also completed his 35th ODI hundred, scoring a blistering 101, Gill added 255 for the opening wicket, setting the tone for a historic and memorable run chase. While India completed its highest ODI run chase by chasing 405 with eight wickets remaining and breaking plenty of team records on its way, Gill’s second One-Day double century made headlines.&nbsp;Here are all records Gill broke with his breathtaking 223* vs WI in Guwahati –<h3>Highest Individual Score by a Captain in ODIs</h3>Former Indian opener Virender Sehwag held the record for the highest individual score by a captain in One-Dayers (219 vs the West Indies in Indore in 2011) for the longest time, only for his compatriot Gill to break it 15 years later. Gill’s 223* now stands as the highest score by a captain in an ODI game.&nbsp;Also read| <a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/ind-vs-wi-2nd-odi-shubman-gill-223-rohit-sharma-record-chase-guwahati-1790788518334">India pull off record ODI run chase vs West Indies behind Gill’s 223* and Rohit’s 101</a><h3>First Player to Score Double Hundred in Tests and ODIs as Captain</h3>Gill created a unique piece of history in Guwahati with his 223*, becoming the first player in the game’s history to score a Test and an ODI double hundred while being the captain. In his first series as India’s Test skipper, Gill scored 269 vs England at Edgbaston in 2025 before smashing his first 200-plus score as an ODI captain against the West Indies.<h3>Fastest Double Century in ODIs</h3>Gill surpassed his India teammate Ishan Kishan’s record of scoring the quickest ODI double hundred. While Kishan took 126 balls for his maiden 200 in One-Dayers against Bangladesh in Dhaka, Gill took just 117 balls, 11 fewer, to reach the landmark.<h3>Highest Individual Score in Successful Run Chase</h3>Glenn Maxwell’s 201* against Afghanistan in the 2023 ODI World Cup was the highest score in a successful run chase until Wednesday night (Sep 30) in Guwahati, where Indian captain Gill whacked 26 fours and eight sixes to register 223* - the highest individual score in a successful chase.<h3>Highest Individual Score in List A Run Chases</h3>Gill’s 223* also eclipsed Soumya Sarkar’s 208* (Dhaka Premier League) to set the all-time highest score in any List A run-chase.Multiple ODI double hundreds<h3>Second Player to Score more than 1 Double Hundred</h3>While only a fraction of players have scored an ODI double hundred, only two players in all of cricket history have done it twice: Rohit and Gill.

From the fastest 200 in ODI history to the highest individual score in a successful chase, here is every record broken by Shubman Gill during his majestic 223* vs West Indies.

Indian captain Shubman Gill was on a rampage on Wednesday (Sep 30) in Guwahati, smashing a sensational unbeaten 223* against the West Indies in the second ODI. Alongside Rohit Sharma, who also completed his 35th ODI hundred, scoring a blistering 101, Gill added 255 for the opening wicket, setting the tone for a historic and memorable run chase. While India completed its highest ODI run chase by chasing 405 with eight wickets remaining and breaking plenty of team records on its way, Gill’s second One-Day double century made headlines. Here are all records Gill broke with his breathtaking 223* vs WI in Guwahati – Highest Individual Score by a Captain in ODIs Former Indian opener Virender Sehwag held the record for the highest individual score by a captain in One-Dayers (219 vs the West Indies in Indore in 2011) for the longest time, only for his compatriot Gill to break it 15 years later. Gill’s 223* now stands as the highest score by a captain in an ODI game. Also read| India pull off record ODI run chase vs West Indies behind Gill’s 223* and Rohit’s 101 First Player to Score Double Hundred in Tests and ODIs as Captain Gill created a unique piece of history in Guwahati with his 223*, becoming the first player in the game’s history to score a Test and an ODI double hundred while being the captain. In his first series as India’s Test skipper, Gill scored 269 vs England at Edgbaston in 2025 before smashing his first 200-plus score as an ODI captain against the West Indies. Fastest Double Century in ODIs Gill surpassed his India teammate Ishan Kishan’s record of scoring the quickest ODI double hundred. While Kishan took 126 balls for his maiden 200 in One-Dayers against Bangladesh in Dhaka, Gill took just 117 balls, 11 fewer, to reach the landmark. Highest Individual Score in Successful Run Chase Glenn Maxwell’s 201* against Afghanistan in the 2023 ODI World Cup was the highest score in a successful run chase until Wednesday night (Sep 30) in Guwahati, where Indian captain Gill whacked 26 fours and eight sixes to register 223* - the highest individual score in a successful chase. Highest Individual Score in List A Run Chases Gill’s 223* also eclipsed Soumya Sarkar’s 208* (Dhaka Premier League) to set the all-time highest score in any List A run-chase. Multiple ODI double hundreds Second Player to Score more than 1 Double Hundred While only a fraction of players have scored an ODI double hundred, only two players in all of cricket history have done it twice: Rohit and Gill.

From the fastest 200 in ODI history to the highest individual score in a successful chase, here is every record broken by Shubman Gill during his majestic 223* vs West Indies.

Shubman Gill's 223 vs WI: Every record broken in India’s highest-ever ODI chase

India pulled off their highest successful ODI run chase and the second-highest overall against the West Indies in the just-concluded second One-Day match in Guwahati on Wednesday (Sep 30). Riding on a sensational unbeaten double century from captain Shubman Gill (223*) and a 35th One-Day century (101) from veteran Rohit Sharma, India chased 405 with eight wickets remaining. Records tumbled as India clinched the three-match ODI series, with one game to go.<h2>History and Numbers</h2>Shubman Gill smashed the fastest 200 (in 117 balls) in ODI history, while India registered their ninth 400-plus score in this format, the most by any team so far. Rohit also entered the record books for completing 12,000 runs in One-Day cricket, becoming only the third Indian after Virat Kohli and Sachin Tendulkar to achieve this feat. Rohit and Gill also stitched 255 runs for the opening wicket, the second-highest for an Indian pair opening the innings.&nbsp;While Rohit was the quickest to 12,000 ODI runs, he also became the first batter to record 200 sixes in a country (India here).This ODI, in particular, also saw five centurions, three from the West Indies and two from India, making it the first instance in ODI history.&nbsp;The Player of the Match, Shubman Gill, also scored his second ODI double hundred, the second-most ever and one shy of Rohit, who has three 200-plus totals to his name in the 50-over format.<h3>First Innings Recap</h3>India won the toss and elected to field first in Guwahati, handing an ODI debut cap to Jammu and Kashmir seamer Auqib Nabi. Prasidh Krishna provided the first breakthrough before John Campbell completed his hundred (101).&nbsp;Also read| <a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/ind-vs-wi-2nd-odi-auqib-nabi-debut-west-indies-400-runs-1790771662086">IND vs WI 2nd ODI: Auqib Nabi's expensive debut sees West Indies cross 400-mark for first time</a>&nbsp;Captain Shai Hope (104) and Amir Jangoo (114) also joined the party and smashed respective hundreds to power the West Indies to their first 400-plus team total in ODIs. Hope also went past Brian Lara for most ODI hundreds, as he completed his 20th.For India, Kuldeep Yadav was the most economical bowler, conceding at 6.5 while returning with two wickets. While Ravindra Jadeja and seamer Gurnoor Brar also picked up two wickets each, debutant Nabi went wicketless and conceded 84 runs in 8.5 overs, earning an unwanted record of being the most expensive ODI debutant for India.<h3>Gill, Rohit Rewrite History Books</h3>The Indian openers set the tone for a historic run chase in Guwahati, adding 255 for the first wicket inside 27 overs. Rohit’s departure brought talismanic Virat Kohli to the crease, who also enjoyed his brief time in the middle before falling to Shamar Joseph on 29.&nbsp;The star of the match, however, was Gill, who looked in ominous touch and brought up another century in back-to-back games.&nbsp;&nbsp;Unlike in the series opener, where he got out on 110, Gill converted his hundred into a brilliant double ton, smashing 26 fours and eight sixes at an unbelievable strike rate of 167.67.&nbsp;Alongside Ruturaj Gaikwad, Gill helped India complete a memorable chase.&nbsp;New Chandigarh will host the third and final ODI on Saturday (Oct 3).

Shubman Gill's record-shattering 223* and Rohit Sharma's 101 powered India to a historic 405-run chase against the West Indies in Guwahati to seal the ODI series.

India pulled off their highest successful ODI run chase and the second-highest overall against the West Indies in the just-concluded second One-Day match in Guwahati on Wednesday (Sep 30). Riding on a sensational unbeaten double century from captain Shubman Gill (223*) and a 35th One-Day century (101) from veteran Rohit Sharma, India chased 405 with eight wickets remaining. Records tumbled as India clinched the three-match ODI series, with one game to go. History and Numbers Shubman Gill smashed the fastest 200 (in 117 balls) in ODI history, while India registered their ninth 400-plus score in this format, the most by any team so far. Rohit also entered the record books for completing 12,000 runs in One-Day cricket, becoming only the third Indian after Virat Kohli and Sachin Tendulkar to achieve this feat. Rohit and Gill also stitched 255 runs for the opening wicket, the second-highest for an Indian pair opening the innings. While Rohit was the quickest to 12,000 ODI runs, he also became the first batter to record 200 sixes in a country (India here). This ODI, in particular, also saw five centurions, three from the West Indies and two from India, making it the first instance in ODI history. The Player of the Match, Shubman Gill, also scored his second ODI double hundred, the second-most ever and one shy of Rohit, who has three 200-plus totals to his name in the 50-over format. First Innings Recap India won the toss and elected to field first in Guwahati, handing an ODI debut cap to Jammu and Kashmir seamer Auqib Nabi. Prasidh Krishna provided the first breakthrough before John Campbell completed his hundred (101). Also read| IND vs WI 2nd ODI: Auqib Nabi's expensive debut sees West Indies cross 400-mark for first time Captain Shai Hope (104) and Amir Jangoo (114) also joined the party and smashed respective hundreds to power the West Indies to their first 400-plus team total in ODIs. Hope also went past Brian Lara for most ODI hundreds, as he completed his 20th. For India, Kuldeep Yadav was the most economical bowler, conceding at 6.5 while returning with two wickets. While Ravindra Jadeja and seamer Gurnoor Brar also picked up two wickets each, debutant Nabi went wicketless and conceded 84 runs in 8.5 overs, earning an unwanted record of being the most expensive ODI debutant for India. Gill, Rohit Rewrite History Books The Indian openers set the tone for a historic run chase in Guwahati, adding 255 for the first wicket inside 27 overs. Rohit’s departure brought talismanic Virat Kohli to the crease, who also enjoyed his brief time in the middle before falling to Shamar Joseph on 29. The star of the match, however, was Gill, who looked in ominous touch and brought up another century in back-to-back games. Unlike in the series opener, where he got out on 110, Gill converted his hundred into a brilliant double ton, smashing 26 fours and eight sixes at an unbelievable strike rate of 167.67. Alongside Ruturaj Gaikwad, Gill helped India complete a memorable chase. New Chandigarh will host the third and final ODI on Saturday (Oct 3).

Shubman Gill's record-shattering 223* and Rohit Sharma's 101 powered India to a historic 405-run chase against the West Indies in Guwahati to seal the ODI series.

India pull off record ODI run chase vs West Indies behind Gill’s 223* and Rohit’s 101

Pep Guardiola has finally broken his silence on the Manchester City verdict, saying to the players, staff, and ownership: “We will get through this together. I love you all.” An independent commission found Premier League giants City guilty of all 114 charges related to serious breaches of PL financial rules, casting doubts over the club’s future in the league. The commission found that between 2009/10 and 2017/18, City arranged ‘sham contracts’ with a number of its commercial partners as part of a ‘disguised funding scheme’ to inflate the club’s revenue by £830m.&nbsp;While City continue to deny the breaches, with club chief executive Ferran Soriano calling the process a ‘Premier League conspiracy theory’ in a video message to players and staff, Manchester City has confirmed it will appeal against the ruling.&nbsp;Also read| <a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/premier-league-says-manchester-city-s-sham-contracts-financial-breaches-most-significant-in-history-1790742784080">Premier League says Manchester City's 'sham contracts' financial breaches ‘most significant in history’</a>&nbsp;Guardiola, who was the face of City’s most dominant and memorable PL run since 2016, posted on his social media to let each club fan know that he hasn’t gone anywhere, and that he will always be backing ‘his club’.&nbsp;"I want every single Manchester City fan across the world to know I am here; more than ever. I am, always have been, always will, be behind my club, my owner, my chairman, Ferran, the players, staff, Enzo [Maresca] and you, our unique supporters.&nbsp;"Let me be clear: we will get through this together. I love you all,” he wrote on his social media handle.<h2>‘Process was not Impartial’: City</h2>After the Premier League also confirmed the commission’s reading, accusing the 10-time PL champions of major financial breaches, Manchester City released an official statement saying the process was not impartial.&nbsp;"Manchester City FC is both disappointed and surprised by the opinion of the Premier League commission that has been published today.&nbsp;"The club is innocent of the accusations made by the Premier League and a comprehensive body of irrefutable evidence exists in support of all of its positions relating to this case. The club will therefore be relentless, and where necessary proactive, in any and all appropriate regulatory and legal forums.&nbsp;"The Premier League process remains ongoing, with significant elements incomplete. Manchester City FC will now pursue the appeal avenues open to it, on the basis that the opinion contains clear material errors of law, principle and fact, and is unsafe.&nbsp;"The club has diligently respected due process for eight years on the basis that the Premier League board and executive would behave as an independent, impartial and fair-minded regulator, free from partisan influence.&nbsp;"The club is obviously restricted in what it can say further until all future proceedings are complete,” it read.&nbsp;Meanwhile, Guardiola spent 10 years at the club, winning six Premier League titles, including four on the trot from 2020 to 2023, before bidding goodbye ahead of the ongoing season.

Pep Guardiola has broken his silence following Manchester City's 114-charge verdict, pledging full support: "We will get through this together."

Pep Guardiola has finally broken his silence on the Manchester City verdict, saying to the players, staff, and ownership: “We will get through this together. I love you all.” An independent commission found Premier League giants City guilty of all 114 charges related to serious breaches of PL financial rules, casting doubts over the club’s future in the league. The commission found that between 2009/10 and 2017/18, City arranged ‘sham contracts’ with a number of its commercial partners as part of a ‘disguised funding scheme’ to inflate the club’s revenue by £830m. While City continue to deny the breaches, with club chief executive Ferran Soriano calling the process a ‘Premier League conspiracy theory’ in a video message to players and staff, Manchester City has confirmed it will appeal against the ruling. Also read| Premier League says Manchester City's 'sham contracts' financial breaches ‘most significant in history’ Guardiola, who was the face of City’s most dominant and memorable PL run since 2016, posted on his social media to let each club fan know that he hasn’t gone anywhere, and that he will always be backing ‘his club’. "I want every single Manchester City fan across the world to know I am here; more than ever. I am, always have been, always will, be behind my club, my owner, my chairman, Ferran, the players, staff, Enzo [Maresca] and you, our unique supporters. "Let me be clear: we will get through this together. I love you all,” he wrote on his social media handle. ‘Process was not Impartial’: City After the Premier League also confirmed the commission’s reading, accusing the 10-time PL champions of major financial breaches, Manchester City released an official statement saying the process was not impartial. "Manchester City FC is both disappointed and surprised by the opinion of the Premier League commission that has been published today. "The club is innocent of the accusations made by the Premier League and a comprehensive body of irrefutable evidence exists in support of all of its positions relating to this case. The club will therefore be relentless, and where necessary proactive, in any and all appropriate regulatory and legal forums. "The Premier League process remains ongoing, with significant elements incomplete. Manchester City FC will now pursue the appeal avenues open to it, on the basis that the opinion contains clear material errors of law, principle and fact, and is unsafe. "The club has diligently respected due process for eight years on the basis that the Premier League board and executive would behave as an independent, impartial and fair-minded regulator, free from partisan influence. "The club is obviously restricted in what it can say further until all future proceedings are complete,” it read. Meanwhile, Guardiola spent 10 years at the club, winning six Premier League titles, including four on the trot from 2020 to 2023, before bidding goodbye ahead of the ongoing season.

Pep Guardiola has broken his silence following Manchester City's 114-charge verdict, pledging full support: "We will get through this together."

Pep Guardiola breaks silence on Manchester City verdict: ‘We will get through this together’

Former Pakistan speedster Shoaib Akhtar is set to take up a ‘major role’ within the PCB after the board chairman Mohsin Naqvi held talks with him recently, per the latest report. Akhtar, who last featured for Pakistan in 2011, has been actively critical of the board’s administration and decision-making in the past, questioning those in charge throughout. However, as things stand, he is likely to be amongst the first major moves Naqvi will make in his revamp of Pakistan's structure following an embarrassing tour of the UK, where England whitewashed Pakistan across three Tests.&nbsp;While the exact nature of his proposed position in the PCB has not been formally announced, the two are said to have held discussions over Pakistan Cricket. A PTI report claims that Akhtar, who resides in Islamabad, met the PCB chief last week, and the two spoke at length about cricket-related matters.&nbsp;Also read| <a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/pakistan-ireland-bilateral-series-tri-series-scrapped-zimbabwe-exit-1790769603205">Pakistan, Ireland set for bilateral series as ODI tri-series scrapped after Zimbabwe exit</a>&nbsp;“A few weeks back, when Shoaib’s elder brother passed away, Mohsin Naqvi had interacted with him closely and was there for him. This gesture impressed Shoaib a lot, who has been a vocal critic of the PCB and Pakistan cricket in the past in his media appearances,” the source close to the information said.&nbsp;The relationship between the two has strengthened since, and the latest indications suggest that Naqvi has also shared his plans with him and invited him to visit the National Cricket Academy (NCA) and training camps.&nbsp;“Shoaib is in line to get a major posting, but obviously when he met with the Chairman he had his own set of ideas and conditions through which he believes Pakistan cricket can be taken forward,” the source added.<h2>Bigger Plans for PCB</h2>Akhtar’s potential appointment is a small part of the PCB’s larger overhaul of the Pakistan senior men’s team, as the board is said to explore the possibility of roping in foreign coaches and consultants following the departures of fielding coach Shane McDermott and batting coach Ashley Noffke.&nbsp;“The board is working on some plans for the future, and there will be some changes in the cricket think tank soon because the Chairman has made it clear that he expects better results from the national men’s, women’s, Shaheens and junior teams,” the source stated.&nbsp;Pakistan men’s team will be in action next during the home ODI tri-series also involving England and Sri Lanka, which starts on October 18. Rawalpindi and Lahore will host all matches.

Shoaib Akhtar is set for a major role within the PCB after holding talks with chairman Mohsin Naqvi following Pakistan's Test series defeat in England.

Former Pakistan speedster Shoaib Akhtar is set to take up a ‘major role’ within the PCB after the board chairman Mohsin Naqvi held talks with him recently, per the latest report. Akhtar, who last featured for Pakistan in 2011, has been actively critical of the board’s administration and decision-making in the past, questioning those in charge throughout. However, as things stand, he is likely to be amongst the first major moves Naqvi will make in his revamp of Pakistan's structure following an embarrassing tour of the UK, where England whitewashed Pakistan across three Tests. While the exact nature of his proposed position in the PCB has not been formally announced, the two are said to have held discussions over Pakistan Cricket. A PTI report claims that Akhtar, who resides in Islamabad, met the PCB chief last week, and the two spoke at length about cricket-related matters. Also read| Pakistan, Ireland set for bilateral series as ODI tri-series scrapped after Zimbabwe exit “A few weeks back, when Shoaib’s elder brother passed away, Mohsin Naqvi had interacted with him closely and was there for him. This gesture impressed Shoaib a lot, who has been a vocal critic of the PCB and Pakistan cricket in the past in his media appearances,” the source close to the information said. The relationship between the two has strengthened since, and the latest indications suggest that Naqvi has also shared his plans with him and invited him to visit the National Cricket Academy (NCA) and training camps. “Shoaib is in line to get a major posting, but obviously when he met with the Chairman he had his own set of ideas and conditions through which he believes Pakistan cricket can be taken forward,” the source added. Bigger Plans for PCB Akhtar’s potential appointment is a small part of the PCB’s larger overhaul of the Pakistan senior men’s team, as the board is said to explore the possibility of roping in foreign coaches and consultants following the departures of fielding coach Shane McDermott and batting coach Ashley Noffke. “The board is working on some plans for the future, and there will be some changes in the cricket think tank soon because the Chairman has made it clear that he expects better results from the national men’s, women’s, Shaheens and junior teams,” the source stated. Pakistan men’s team will be in action next during the home ODI tri-series also involving England and Sri Lanka, which starts on October 18. Rawalpindi and Lahore will host all matches.

Shoaib Akhtar is set for a major role within the PCB after holding talks with chairman Mohsin Naqvi following Pakistan's Test series defeat in England.

Shoaib Akhtar set for 'major PCB role' after talks with chairman Mohsin Naqvi: Report

Jammu and Kashmir fast bowler Auqib Nabi endured a forgettable ODI debut against the West Indies in Guwahati as he went wicketless and conceded 84 runs in 8.5 overs at 9.50. The West Indies also crossed the 400-run mark in the One-Dayers for the first time in history, registering their highest ODI score of 405 for seven after being put in to bat first. While all Indian bowlers leaked runs at over six, Kuldeep Yadav, Ravindra Jadeja and Gurnoor Brar returned with two wickets each. For India to win this match and the series, they must complete their highest ODI run chase.&nbsp;Three West Indian batters, John Campbell (101), captain Shai Hope (104) and Amir Jangoo (114), scored centuries in the second ODI, helping the visitors surpass their previous highest team total (389) and register their first-ever 400-plus score in One-Day Internationals.&nbsp;Also read| <a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/virat-kohli-icc-odi-rankings-shubman-gill-55th-century-1790767955972">Virat Kohli climbs to No. 2 in ODI rankings after 55th hundred, closes gap on top-ranked Gill</a>&nbsp;KL Rahul handed the ODI cap to Auqib Nabi, who became the first fast bowler from Jammu and Kashmir to play for India.&nbsp;

<blockquote class="twitter-tweet">Another dream come true in blue ✨🤩 📸 Congratulations to Auqib Nabi as he receives his ODI debut cap from Vice-captain KL Rahul 🧢<a href="https://x.com/hashtag/TeamIndia?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#TeamIndia</a> | <a href="https://x.com/hashtag/INDvWI?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#INDvWI</a> | <a href="https://x.com/mflone_?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@mflone_</a> <a href="https://t.co/1kxKme516R">pic.twitter.com/1kxKme516R</a>&mdash; BCCI (@BCCI) <a href="https://x.com/BCCI/status/2105209231649706232?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">September 30, 2026</a></blockquote> <script async src="https://platform.x.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script>

Like the rest of the Indian attack, Nabi struggled to contain the West Indies batters, who smashed 38 fours and 12 sixes in their record outing. While seasoned pacer Prasidh Krishna returned with figures of 1/45 in his five overs, Gurnoor conceded 96 runs in his 10 overs for two wickets.&nbsp;The most economical bowler was Kuldeep Yadav, who picked up two wickets for 65 runs in his 10 overs. Kuldeep was key to India’s win in the series opener after returning with a match-winning 4/40. His spin-bowling partner and ace all-rounder Ravindra Jadeja also leaked runs at 7.5 in his 10 overs, but pocketed two, including dismissing the dangerous-looking Jangoo.&nbsp;Out of the race for direct qualification for the 2027 ODI World Cup and to feature in the qualifiers for a bid to land a spot in the final 14, the West Indies already have four separate centurions on the India tour so far. Barring the three batters who breached the three-digit mark in this game, Justin Greaves scored one in Thiruvananthapuram before getting ruled out of the series with an injury.&nbsp;Meanwhile, if Team India completes this run chase, they will surpass their previous chasing record of 360 against Australia in Jaipur 13 years ago. Interestingly, the talismanic pair of Rohit Sharma and Virat Kohli were part of that run chase in 2013.

Auqib Nabi endured a tough ODI debut as West Indies breached the 400-run mark for the first time in history, setting India a record target in Guwahati.

Jammu and Kashmir fast bowler Auqib Nabi endured a forgettable ODI debut against the West Indies in Guwahati as he went wicketless and conceded 84 runs in 8.5 overs at 9.50. The West Indies also crossed the 400-run mark in the One-Dayers for the first time in history, registering their highest ODI score of 405 for seven after being put in to bat first. While all Indian bowlers leaked runs at over six, Kuldeep Yadav, Ravindra Jadeja and Gurnoor Brar returned with two wickets each. For India to win this match and the series, they must complete their highest ODI run chase. Three West Indian batters, John Campbell (101), captain Shai Hope (104) and Amir Jangoo (114), scored centuries in the second ODI, helping the visitors surpass their previous highest team total (389) and register their first-ever 400-plus score in One-Day Internationals. Also read| Virat Kohli climbs to No. 2 in ODI rankings after 55th hundred, closes gap on top-ranked Gill KL Rahul handed the ODI cap to Auqib Nabi, who became the first fast bowler from Jammu and Kashmir to play for India.

Auqib Nabi endured a tough ODI debut as West Indies breached the 400-run mark for the first time in history, setting India a record target in Guwahati.

IND vs WI 2nd ODI: Auqib Nabi's expensive debut sees West Indies cross 400-mark for first time

The scheduled triangular ODI series in Pakistan in January 2027, including Zimbabwe and Ireland, has been scrapped after Zimbabwe withdrew for commercial reasons, with all parties believed to be working on an alternate window. Ireland and Zimbabwe were originally slated to travel to Pakistan for what would have been the country's second tri-nation event in three months; however, following Zimbabwe’s withdrawal, Pakistan and Ireland are considering playing a bilateral series instead.&nbsp;Although a home Test against Ireland was also on the cards, a Cricinfo report states that possibility has receded.&nbsp;Also read| <a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/virat-kohli-icc-odi-rankings-shubman-gill-55th-century-1790767955972">Virat Kohli climbs to No. 2 in ODI rankings after 55th hundred, closes gap on top-ranked Gill</a>&nbsp;"The PCB and Cricket Ireland are currently working through a revised schedule for the tour, and details will be made available shortly," a Cricket Ireland spokesperson said in a chat with Cricinfo.&nbsp;Meanwhile, Pakistan has committed to play more One-Day matches in the coming months with the 50-over World Cup nearly a year away. Pakistan will host England and Sri Lanka in an ODI tri-series starting later next month, with a five-match ODI series in Bangladesh also in the works. The Men in Green will also travel to England for a five-match ODI series next summer.&nbsp;Ireland will play the ODI World Cup qualifiers in February for a place in the final 14. The 2027 ODI World Cup will take place in Africa, co-hosted by South Africa, Zimbabwe and Namibia, in October–November 2027.<h3>PAK, ENG and SL ODI Tri-Series Schedule –</h3><ul><li>1st ODI – Pakistan vs Sri Lanka, October 18, Rawalpindi</li><li>2nd ODI – Pakistan vs England, October 20, Rawalpindi</li><li>3rd ODI – Sri Lanka vs England, October 22, Rawalpindi</li><li>4th ODI – Pakistan vs England, October 25, Lahore</li><li>5th ODI – Pakistan vs Sri Lanka, October 27, Lahore</li><li>6th ODI – England vs Sri Lanka, October 29, Lahore</li><li>Final – October 31, Lahore</li></ul>

Zimbabwe's withdrawal forces PCB to scrap the 2027 ODI tri-series. Pakistan and Ireland now eye a bilateral series ahead of an action-packed 50-over schedule.

The scheduled triangular ODI series in Pakistan in January 2027, including Zimbabwe and Ireland, has been scrapped after Zimbabwe withdrew for commercial reasons, with all parties believed to be working on an alternate window. Ireland and Zimbabwe were originally slated to travel to Pakistan for what would have been the country's second tri-nation event in three months; however, following Zimbabwe’s withdrawal, Pakistan and Ireland are considering playing a bilateral series instead. Although a home Test against Ireland was also on the cards, a Cricinfo report states that possibility has receded. Also read| Virat Kohli climbs to No. 2 in ODI rankings after 55th hundred, closes gap on top-ranked Gill "The PCB and Cricket Ireland are currently working through a revised schedule for the tour, and details will be made available shortly," a Cricket Ireland spokesperson said in a chat with Cricinfo. Meanwhile, Pakistan has committed to play more One-Day matches in the coming months with the 50-over World Cup nearly a year away. Pakistan will host England and Sri Lanka in an ODI tri-series starting later next month, with a five-match ODI series in Bangladesh also in the works. The Men in Green will also travel to England for a five-match ODI series next summer. Ireland will play the ODI World Cup qualifiers in February for a place in the final 14. The 2027 ODI World Cup will take place in Africa, co-hosted by South Africa, Zimbabwe and Namibia, in October–November 2027. PAK, ENG and SL ODI Tri-Series Schedule – 1st ODI – Pakistan vs Sri Lanka, October 18, Rawalpindi 2nd ODI – Pakistan vs England, October 20, Rawalpindi 3rd ODI – Sri Lanka vs England, October 22, Rawalpindi 4th ODI – Pakistan vs England, October 25, Lahore 5th ODI – Pakistan vs Sri Lanka, October 27, Lahore 6th ODI – England vs Sri Lanka, October 29, Lahore Final – October 31, Lahore

Zimbabwe's withdrawal forces PCB to scrap the 2027 ODI tri-series. Pakistan and Ireland now eye a bilateral series ahead of an action-packed 50-over schedule.

Pakistan, Ireland set for bilateral series as ODI tri-series scrapped after Zimbabwe exit

Talismanic Indian batter Virat Kohli has jumped one place to the second spot in the updated ICC ODI rankings following his record-breaking 55th One-Day hundred in the first game against the West Indies. His unbeaten 139 off 88 balls, including nine sixes and 10 fours, helped him surpass New Zealand’s Daryl Mitchell’s tally of 794. With Kohli at second (796), he has closed the gap with ODI captain and top-ranked batter Shubman Gill, who sits at the top with 816 rating points. Former captain Rohit Sharma is fourth on the list (719).&nbsp;Kohli and Gill scored hundreds in the series opener in Thiruvananthapuram, helping India chase 296 with eight wickets remaining.&nbsp;Last Sunday (Sep 27) was the busiest international cricket day in a long time, with six teams in action and six batters across all series scoring centuries in a record feat. While Gill and Kohli were the two Indians on the list, West Indies all-rounder Justin Greaves, England opener Tom Banton, and South African batting pair captain Temba Bavuma and seasoned David Miller were the remaining batters to reach the three-digit mark.&nbsp;Also read| <a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/odi-world-cup-2027-axar-or-jadeja-india-spin-coach-bahutule-on-who-will-be-picked-1790738583647">ODI World Cup 2027: Axar or Jadeja? India spin coach Bahutule on who will be picked</a>&nbsp;Sri Lankan batting mainstay Kusal Mendis, who scored a match-winning 121 in the second ODI, was the biggest gainer on the rankings, jumping three places to the seventh spot. England batting veteran Joe Root dropped two places to number nine, with Shai Hope attaining eighth place with 664 rating points.&nbsp;The Asians, however, continue to dominate the batting chart, with Afghanistan opener Ibrahim Zadran (719 rating points) and Pakistan batting giant Babar Azam (689) taking up the fifth and sixth spots, respectively. Ireland’s Harry Tector is 10th with 653 rating points.&nbsp;Among the bowlers, Proteas ace spinner Keshav Maharaj gained three places to sit at three after finishing with 2/54 and 4/20 in the first two ODIs against Australia. Aussie quick Josh Hazlewood also returned to the top ten with his four wickets in the first two ODIs; he is up five places to tenth.&nbsp;Indian spinner Kuldeep Yadav also jumped four places to the fifth position after completing his 12th ODI four-wicket haul in the first ODI against the West Indies. Kuldeep returned with figures of 4/40.

Virat Kohli jumps to No. 2 in the latest ICC ODI rankings following his record-breaking 55th century against West Indies, closing the gap on Shubman Gill.

Talismanic Indian batter Virat Kohli has jumped one place to the second spot in the updated ICC ODI rankings following his record-breaking 55th One-Day hundred in the first game against the West Indies. His unbeaten 139 off 88 balls, including nine sixes and 10 fours, helped him surpass New Zealand’s Daryl Mitchell’s tally of 794. With Kohli at second (796), he has closed the gap with ODI captain and top-ranked batter Shubman Gill, who sits at the top with 816 rating points. Former captain Rohit Sharma is fourth on the list (719). Kohli and Gill scored hundreds in the series opener in Thiruvananthapuram, helping India chase 296 with eight wickets remaining. Last Sunday (Sep 27) was the busiest international cricket day in a long time, with six teams in action and six batters across all series scoring centuries in a record feat. While Gill and Kohli were the two Indians on the list, West Indies all-rounder Justin Greaves, England opener Tom Banton, and South African batting pair captain Temba Bavuma and seasoned David Miller were the remaining batters to reach the three-digit mark. Also read| ODI World Cup 2027: Axar or Jadeja? India spin coach Bahutule on who will be picked Sri Lankan batting mainstay Kusal Mendis, who scored a match-winning 121 in the second ODI, was the biggest gainer on the rankings, jumping three places to the seventh spot. England batting veteran Joe Root dropped two places to number nine, with Shai Hope attaining eighth place with 664 rating points. The Asians, however, continue to dominate the batting chart, with Afghanistan opener Ibrahim Zadran (719 rating points) and Pakistan batting giant Babar Azam (689) taking up the fifth and sixth spots, respectively. Ireland’s Harry Tector is 10th with 653 rating points. Among the bowlers, Proteas ace spinner Keshav Maharaj gained three places to sit at three after finishing with 2/54 and 4/20 in the first two ODIs against Australia. Aussie quick Josh Hazlewood also returned to the top ten with his four wickets in the first two ODIs; he is up five places to tenth. Indian spinner Kuldeep Yadav also jumped four places to the fifth position after completing his 12th ODI four-wicket haul in the first ODI against the West Indies. Kuldeep returned with figures of 4/40.

Virat Kohli jumps to No. 2 in the latest ICC ODI rankings following his record-breaking 55th century against West Indies, closing the gap on Shubman Gill.

Virat Kohli climbs to No. 2 in ODI rankings after 55th hundred, closes gap on top-ranked Gill

Indian footballer Daniel Lalhlimpuia says that the country needs its fans behind the players to make the sport grow in the country. Daniel has played three matches for the Indian national team since making his debut in 2016 and currently is part of Malappuram FC for the Super League Kerala season. The forward, in a conversation with WION, also spoke about the significance of upcoming India matches against Brazil (October 3) and Uruguay (October 6). Below is the complete interview:You made your debut for India in 2016, and since then, you have played for multiple ISL teams in Odisha, Chennai, and now you are playing in the Super League Kerala. So, how is Kerala different from the rest of the country in terms of football culture?I think Kerala, from what I have seen right now, is one of the most passionate states for football in India. The fans here have made a big difference compared to other states, because the Kerala league has attracted so many fans. It's a great opportunity for the local boys and the young players to showcase their skills on this stage.How will state-based football leagues like the Super League Kerala help Indian football, and what impact do you see these kinds of leagues having on Indian football?This will help a lot, and the most important thing is to develop players from the grassroots. When you look at it, for example, now there are a lot of players here in Kerala who don't have a chance to go to the I-League or the ISL, but still, they need to develop. So, this is a great opportunity for the players here in Kerala to prove to themselves that they can do it at the next stage.So, this is the next step for the players who are in Kerala especially, to deliver a good performance in this Super League that will help get them to the I-League or even the ISL.What are your expectations from this season of the Super League Kerala?The expectation is very simple—to win the league. I just want to win this league for Malappuram FC and everyone at the club. Everyone, the players and the management, has worked so hard to achieve the target. These are my expectations from this season—to win the league with Malappuram FC.The Indian team is scheduled to play Brazil and Uruguay in the coming days. How do you think these matches against bigger teams will help Indian football?It will help a lot because the opportunity to play against a world champion and larger footballing nations doesn't come very often. I hope the players who are in the national team will take this opportunity and try to prove that India can also do it.Also, it's always better to play against a higher-ranked team to test ourselves and see where we really are. So, this is a great opportunity for the country, for the fans, and also for the players. I hope the boys will do well, fight, and hopefully, we will get a good result.What are your aspirations as far as your India career is concerned?If you ask me if my career could be better? Yeah, of course it could be. But until now, I am happy with my career and what I have done, because sometimes things don't go your way, like getting an injury or facing a few setbacks. But I would say that I don't want to look back on my career saying that I should have done that or I could have done more.The things that are in my hands, I give my 100 percent to, and the rest is out of my control. But the things that are in my hands, I try to control as much as I can and give 100 percent every single time so that I don't regret looking back at my career. And, as far as I'm concerned, I think I'm happy with my career.What do you think that we as a country should be doing more to help Indian football grow?I would say fan engagement, because the fans are a very big part of football. I can't even imagine football without fans, because the support from the fans is something that Indian football really needs. As a footballer, when thousands of fans—or even more—are behind you, then you are motivated automatically.

Indian footballer Daniel Lalhlimpuia highlights fan support as essential for growing the sport. Now playing for Malappuram FC, he also noted the significance of India’s upcoming matches against Brazil and Uruguay.

Indian footballer Daniel Lalhlimpuia says that the country needs its fans behind the players to make the sport grow in the country. Daniel has played three matches for the Indian national team since making his debut in 2016 and currently is part of Malappuram FC for the Super League Kerala season. The forward, in a conversation with WION, also spoke about the significance of upcoming India matches against Brazil (October 3) and Uruguay (October 6). Below is the complete interview: You made your debut for India in 2016, and since then, you have played for multiple ISL teams in Odisha, Chennai, and now you are playing in the Super League Kerala. So, how is Kerala different from the rest of the country in terms of football culture? I think Kerala, from what I have seen right now, is one of the most passionate states for football in India. The fans here have made a big difference compared to other states, because the Kerala league has attracted so many fans. It's a great opportunity for the local boys and the young players to showcase their skills on this stage. How will state-based football leagues like the Super League Kerala help Indian football, and what impact do you see these kinds of leagues having on Indian football? This will help a lot, and the most important thing is to develop players from the grassroots. When you look at it, for example, now there are a lot of players here in Kerala who don't have a chance to go to the I-League or the ISL, but still, they need to develop. So, this is a great opportunity for the players here in Kerala to prove to themselves that they can do it at the next stage. So, this is the next step for the players who are in Kerala especially, to deliver a good performance in this Super League that will help get them to the I-League or even the ISL. What are your expectations from this season of the Super League Kerala? The expectation is very simple—to win the league. I just want to win this league for Malappuram FC and everyone at the club. Everyone, the players and the management, has worked so hard to achieve the target. These are my expectations from this season—to win the league with Malappuram FC. The Indian team is scheduled to play Brazil and Uruguay in the coming days. How do you think these matches against bigger teams will help Indian football? It will help a lot because the opportunity to play against a world champion and larger footballing nations doesn't come very often. I hope the players who are in the national team will take this opportunity and try to prove that India can also do it. Also, it's always better to play against a higher-ranked team to test ourselves and see where we really are. So, this is a great opportunity for the country, for the fans, and also for the players. I hope the boys will do well, fight, and hopefully, we will get a good result. What are your aspirations as far as your India career is concerned? If you ask me if my career could be better? Yeah, of course it could be. But until now, I am happy with my career and what I have done, because sometimes things don't go your way, like getting an injury or facing a few setbacks. But I would say that I don't want to look back on my career saying that I should have done that or I could have done more. The things that are in my hands, I give my 100 percent to, and the rest is out of my control. But the things that are in my hands, I try to control as much as I can and give 100 percent every single time so that I don't regret looking back at my career. And, as far as I'm concerned, I think I'm happy with my career. What do you think that we as a country should be doing more to help Indian football grow? I would say fan engagement, because the fans are a very big part of football. I can't even imagine football without fans, because the support from the fans is something that Indian football really needs. As a footballer, when thousands of fans—or even more—are behind you, then you are motivated automatically.

Indian footballer Daniel Lalhlimpuia highlights fan support as essential for growing the sport. Now playing for Malappuram FC, he also noted the significance of India’s upcoming matches against Brazil and Uruguay.

'We need fans': Indian forward Daniel Lalhlimpuia calls for stadium support to grow football ahead of Brazil, Uruguay friendlies

Indian archers had a golden day at the ongoing Asian Games 2026 on Wednesday (Sept. 30) as they retained their men's, women’s and mixed team compound archery gold medals in Aichi-Nagoya. The mixed team's gold, won by Chikitha Taniparthi and Sahil Jadhav, also ensured a 2028 Olympics spot for the country in the event, which will make its debut in Los Angeles. Jyothi Surekha Vennam, Prithika Pradeep, and Chikitha Taniparthi beat China in the final 238–234 for the women's team gold, while Taniparthi and Jadhav beat Korea in the final via a thrilling shoot-off after scores were tied at 157 after four rounds.<h2>How India retained gold medals in Compound Archery</h2>In the women's compound archery event, Vennam, Pradeep, and Taniparthi scored 60, 59, 59, and 60 in four rounds to get to an Asian and World Record-equalling total of 238, while China managed scores of 58, 58, 60, and 58 in four rounds, bagging silver with 234 points.In the semifinal of the same event, India beat Korea in a thrilling match 234–233. Korea had scored 59, 56, 60, and 58, while India scored 59, 59, 58, and 58, including a nine on the last shot to enter the final.Also Read - <a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/asian-games-mens-cricket-final-joint-gold-medal-rain-rule-1790693421359">Men's Cricket at Asian Games: Gold medal to be shared in case of rain</a>This was India's fourth consecutive medal in the women's compound archery event at the Asian Games after a bronze in 2014 when the sport made its debut, a silver in 2018, and gold in 2023 before retaining it in 2026.In the mixed team compound archery event, Taniparthi and Jadhav shot 40, 40, 38, and 39 in the four rounds, while the Korean players shot 39, 39, 39, and 40 as the scores got to a 157-all tie. In the shoot-off, the Indian archers hit the bullseye on both attempts, while Korea faltered on the second attempt and lost 20–19 to settle for silver.<h2>Men's Compound Archery team also wins gold</h2>After the women's compound archery team's gold win, the Indian men's compound archery team also beat China to win gold. The trio of Kushal Dalal, Sahil Jadhav, and Ganesh Mani Ratnam Thirumuru beat China 238–237. The Chinese team started well with perfect scores of 60 and 60 in the first two rounds, while the Indian trio managed 58 and 60. In the final two rounds, however, the script was flipped, with China managing 59 and 58 while the Indian archers hit the bullseye for 60 and 60 to bag the gold.

India swept compound archery gold at the 2026 Asian Games, retaining the women's and mixed team titles—securing a 2028 Olympic spot—while the men’s team edged China 238–237 for gold.

Indian archers had a golden day at the ongoing Asian Games 2026 on Wednesday (Sept. 30) as they retained their men's, women’s and mixed team compound archery gold medals in Aichi-Nagoya. The mixed team's gold, won by Chikitha Taniparthi and Sahil Jadhav, also ensured a 2028 Olympics spot for the country in the event, which will make its debut in Los Angeles. Jyothi Surekha Vennam, Prithika Pradeep, and Chikitha Taniparthi beat China in the final 238–234 for the women's team gold, while Taniparthi and Jadhav beat Korea in the final via a thrilling shoot-off after scores were tied at 157 after four rounds. How India retained gold medals in Compound Archery In the women's compound archery event, Vennam, Pradeep, and Taniparthi scored 60, 59, 59, and 60 in four rounds to get to an Asian and World Record-equalling total of 238, while China managed scores of 58, 58, 60, and 58 in four rounds, bagging silver with 234 points. In the semifinal of the same event, India beat Korea in a thrilling match 234–233. Korea had scored 59, 56, 60, and 58, while India scored 59, 59, 58, and 58, including a nine on the last shot to enter the final. Also Read - Men's Cricket at Asian Games: Gold medal to be shared in case of rain This was India's fourth consecutive medal in the women's compound archery event at the Asian Games after a bronze in 2014 when the sport made its debut, a silver in 2018, and gold in 2023 before retaining it in 2026. In the mixed team compound archery event, Taniparthi and Jadhav shot 40, 40, 38, and 39 in the four rounds, while the Korean players shot 39, 39, 39, and 40 as the scores got to a 157-all tie. In the shoot-off, the Indian archers hit the bullseye on both attempts, while Korea faltered on the second attempt and lost 20–19 to settle for silver. Men's Compound Archery team also wins gold After the women's compound archery team's gold win, the Indian men's compound archery team also beat China to win gold. The trio of Kushal Dalal, Sahil Jadhav, and Ganesh Mani Ratnam Thirumuru beat China 238–237. The Chinese team started well with perfect scores of 60 and 60 in the first two rounds, while the Indian trio managed 58 and 60. In the final two rounds, however, the script was flipped, with China managing 59 and 58 while the Indian archers hit the bullseye for 60 and 60 to bag the gold.

India swept compound archery gold at the 2026 Asian Games, retaining the women's and mixed team titles—securing a 2028 Olympic spot—while the men’s team edged China 238–237 for gold.

Asian Games 2026: Indian archers hit bullseye for three gold medals and an Olympics 2028 spot

The English Premier League has issued a<a href="https://www.premierleague.com/en/news/4727779/premier-league-statement-manchester-city-fc/"> statement on Manchester City</a>'s being found guilty of breaching the league's financial rules over a nine-year period from 2009/10 to 2017/18. During this period, the club was found guilty of boosting its income by more than $1.19 billion via "sham contracts". City was found guilty of 114 of the 115 charges, and the Premier League statement confirmed the verdict, calling it "the most significant in Premier League history". The investigation began in December 2018 against City, and an Independent Commission held a 10-week hearing which was completed in December 2024. City, however, has the right to appeal against the finding of the Independent Commission by Friday, October 2.<h2>Premier League issues statement on City's financial breach</h2>In a statement issued on Tuesday (Sept. 29) by the Premier League, it was confirmed that "an Independent Commission has found Manchester City FC guilty of virtually all charges related to serious breaches of the Premier League’s financial rules over a nine-season period".According to the commission, between 2009/10 and 2017/18:Also Read - <a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/wayne-rooney-man-utd-man-city-115-charges-stripped-titles-medals-1790693841695">Rooney insists Manchester United 'don't deserve' retrospective titles if Man City are stripped</a><ul><li>Manchester City arranged ‘sham’ contracts (which misrepresented the true agreement between the parties) with a number of its commercial partners, as well as relying on ‘sham’ agreements with others, to artificially inflate the club’s revenues and reduce its costs.</li><li>The club filed misstated accounts and concealed the true state of its finances from its auditors and football regulators.</li><li>Manchester City was significantly in breach of both the Premier League’s and UEFA’s spending limits.</li><li>During the Premier League’s investigation, Manchester City committed multiple breaches of its duties of co-operation and utmost good faith towards the League.</li></ul><h2>What next for Manchester City</h2>The club is expected to be fined heavily, with relegation possible as well. While there is no precedent available for what punishment City might incur, given the scale of its breaches, Everton previously suffered a 10-point penalty for overspeding $25 million in a breach of profitability and sustainability rules. Everton's penalty was calculated as six points for an initial breach and an additional point for each $6.6 million overspent by the club.

The Premier League confirmed Manchester City was found guilty of 114 financial breaches over nine seasons, inflating income by over $1.19 billion. City faces severe fines or potential relegation.

The English Premier League has issued a statement on Manchester City's being found guilty of breaching the league's financial rules over a nine-year period from 2009/10 to 2017/18. During this period, the club was found guilty of boosting its income by more than $1.19 billion via "sham contracts". City was found guilty of 114 of the 115 charges, and the Premier League statement confirmed the verdict, calling it "the most significant in Premier League history". The investigation began in December 2018 against City, and an Independent Commission held a 10-week hearing which was completed in December 2024. City, however, has the right to appeal against the finding of the Independent Commission by Friday, October 2. Premier League issues statement on City's financial breach In a statement issued on Tuesday (Sept. 29) by the Premier League, it was confirmed that "an Independent Commission has found Manchester City FC guilty of virtually all charges related to serious breaches of the Premier League’s financial rules over a nine-season period". According to the commission, between 2009/10 and 2017/18: Also Read - Rooney insists Manchester United 'don't deserve' retrospective titles if Man City are stripped Manchester City arranged ‘sham’ contracts (which misrepresented the true agreement between the parties) with a number of its commercial partners, as well as relying on ‘sham’ agreements with others, to artificially inflate the club’s revenues and reduce its costs. The club filed misstated accounts and concealed the true state of its finances from its auditors and football regulators. Manchester City was significantly in breach of both the Premier League’s and UEFA’s spending limits. During the Premier League’s investigation, Manchester City committed multiple breaches of its duties of co-operation and utmost good faith towards the League. What next for Manchester City The club is expected to be fined heavily, with relegation possible as well. While there is no precedent available for what punishment City might incur, given the scale of its breaches, Everton previously suffered a 10-point penalty for overspeding $25 million in a breach of profitability and sustainability rules. Everton's penalty was calculated as six points for an initial breach and an additional point for each $6.6 million overspent by the club.

The Premier League confirmed Manchester City was found guilty of 114 financial breaches over nine seasons, inflating income by over $1.19 billion. City faces severe fines or potential relegation.

Premier League says Manchester City's 'sham contracts' financial breaches 'most significant in history'

The ODI World Cup 2027 is nearly a year away, and India, who were the runners-up in the last edition in 2023, is looking to identify players in the series leading up to the tournament. One of the choices that India must make is between Axar Patel and Ravindra Jadeja. Both players bowl left-arm orthodox spin and bat in the lower-middle order. Jadeja, however, is a better fielder than Axar and has more experience as well. India spin coach Sairaj Bahutule - on the eve of the second ODI against West Indies, which is scheduled for Wednesday (Sept. 30) in Guwahati - said in a press conference that the team will pick a player with more 'utility.'<h2>India spin coach Bahutule chimes in on Axar vs. Jadeja debate for ODI World Cup 2027</h2>Speaking to reporters in Guwahati on Tuesday (Sept. 29), Bahutule said: "For me, he [Jadeja] has always been a utility player. He is somebody who can contribute with the bat as well as with the ball. He has definitely improved as a bowler over the last six months. I thought in the Test matches he bowled really well in Sri Lanka, as well as now in the first one-dayer. It is his first game after a long period, but he has done well."Also Read - <a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/asian-games-mens-cricket-final-joint-gold-medal-rain-rule-1790693421359">Men's Cricket at Asian Games: Gold medal to be shared in case of rain</a>On Axar, Bahutule said: "With Axar also being around, with the series or tournaments we play in the coming months, we will be able to assess who can be of utility. But Jaddu, with his batting skills and the experience he brings in, is definitely doing well, and I am sure he will be looked at in the coming time."<h2>Jadeja vs. Axar in ODIs</h2>While Jadeja has much more experience than Axar in ODIs, the last 12 months show a different picture. In the last year or so, Jadeja has picked up only one wicket in seven matches at an average of more than 350. In the first ODI against West Indies, Jadeja returned figures of 0/54 in 10 overs.As for Axar, he has taken eight wickets in his last six ODIs with a bowling average of 30.87, which is better than his career average of 32.73.

India must choose between Ravindra Jadeja and Axar Patel for the 2027 ODI World Cup. While Jadeja offers experience and fielding, Axar has shown stronger recent bowling stats in their utility role debate.

The ODI World Cup 2027 is nearly a year away, and India, who were the runners-up in the last edition in 2023, is looking to identify players in the series leading up to the tournament. One of the choices that India must make is between Axar Patel and Ravindra Jadeja. Both players bowl left-arm orthodox spin and bat in the lower-middle order. Jadeja, however, is a better fielder than Axar and has more experience as well. India spin coach Sairaj Bahutule - on the eve of the second ODI against West Indies, which is scheduled for Wednesday (Sept. 30) in Guwahati - said in a press conference that the team will pick a player with more 'utility.' India spin coach Bahutule chimes in on Axar vs. Jadeja debate for ODI World Cup 2027 Speaking to reporters in Guwahati on Tuesday (Sept. 29), Bahutule said: "For me, he [Jadeja] has always been a utility player. He is somebody who can contribute with the bat as well as with the ball. He has definitely improved as a bowler over the last six months. I thought in the Test matches he bowled really well in Sri Lanka, as well as now in the first one-dayer. It is his first game after a long period, but he has done well." Also Read - Men's Cricket at Asian Games: Gold medal to be shared in case of rain On Axar, Bahutule said: "With Axar also being around, with the series or tournaments we play in the coming months, we will be able to assess who can be of utility. But Jaddu, with his batting skills and the experience he brings in, is definitely doing well, and I am sure he will be looked at in the coming time." Jadeja vs. Axar in ODIs While Jadeja has much more experience than Axar in ODIs, the last 12 months show a different picture. In the last year or so, Jadeja has picked up only one wicket in seven matches at an average of more than 350. In the first ODI against West Indies, Jadeja returned figures of 0/54 in 10 overs. As for Axar, he has taken eight wickets in his last six ODIs with a bowling average of 30.87, which is better than his career average of 32.73.

India must choose between Ravindra Jadeja and Axar Patel for the 2027 ODI World Cup. While Jadeja offers experience and fielding, Axar has shown stronger recent bowling stats in their utility role debate.

ODI World Cup 2027: Axar or Jadeja? India spin coach Bahutule on who will be picked

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ODI World Cup 2027: Axar or Jadeja? Spin coach Bahutule on who will India pick