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Spanish forwards Lamine Yamal and Nico Williams should be fit in time for their team’s FIFA World Cup 2026 opener against Cape Verde in Atlanta on June 15, head coach Luis de la Fuente said during a press conference on Wednesday (Jun 3). The two wingers missed the end of the club season due to hamstring injuries, but De la Fuente picked them in the final World Cup squad, expecting both to regain full fitness for the showpiece tournament.&nbsp;"We are perfectly coordinated with the clubs, we are giving them continuation in a programme that was established some time ago, and the truth is that the players are improving every day," De la Fuente said ahead of Thursday's friendly against Iraq.&nbsp;Also read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/messi-vs-ronaldo-at-fifa-world-cup-2026-the-final-chapter-as-two-goats-set-for-one-last-dance-1780471076690">Messi vs Ronaldo at FIFA World Cup 2026: The final chapter as two GOATs set for one last dance</a> &nbsp;While the head coach revealed that the injured duo is ‘progressing as expected’, the two are unlikely to be involved in the team for the friendly against Iraq in A Coruña. When asked specifically about Barcelona teenage star Yamal, De la Fuente said, "If everything continues as it has been so far, he could be ready on June 15, but that doesn't guarantee that he will play." &nbsp;Meanwhile, Spain will be one of the favourites at the 48-team tournament, held across Canada, Mexico and the United States. However, De la Fuente insisted the tournament would be "historic because it is the World Cup in which the most teams have a realistic prospect of winning". &nbsp;After facing Cape Verde, Spain will play Saudi Arabia on June 21 in Atlanta before finishing their group stage campaign against Uruguay in Guadalajara on June 27.<h3>Spain's FIFA World Cup Squad -</h3>Goalkeepers: Unai Simón (Athletic Bilbao), David Raya (Arsenal), Joan García (Barcelona)&nbsp;Defenders: Pedro Porro (Tottenham), Marcos Llorente (Atleti), Aymeric Laporte (Athletic), Pau Cubarsí (Barça), Marc Pubill (Atleti), Eric García (Barça), Marc Cucurella (Chelsea), Alejandro Grimaldo (Leverkusen)&nbsp;Midfielders: Rodri (Man City), Martín Zubimendi (Arsenal), Pedri (Barça), Fabián Ruiz (PSG), Mikel Merino (Arsenal), Gavi (Barça), Álex Baena (Atleti).&nbsp;Forwards: Mikel Oyarzabal (Real Sociedad), Lamine Yamal (Barça), Ferran Torres (Barça), Borja Iglesias (Celta), Dani Olmo (Barça), Víctor Muñoz (Osasuna), Nico Williams (Athletic), Yéremy Pino (Crystal Palace)&nbsp;(With inputs from AFP)

Lamine Yamal and Nico Williams are racing against time to be fit for Spain's World Cup 2026 opener against Cape Verde. Get the latest update from Luis de la Fuente.

Spanish forwards Lamine Yamal and Nico Williams should be fit in time for their team’s FIFA World Cup 2026 opener against Cape Verde in Atlanta on June 15, head coach Luis de la Fuente said during a press conference on Wednesday (Jun 3). The two wingers missed the end of the club season due to hamstring injuries, but De la Fuente picked them in the final World Cup squad, expecting both to regain full fitness for the showpiece tournament. "We are perfectly coordinated with the clubs, we are giving them continuation in a programme that was established some time ago, and the truth is that the players are improving every day," De la Fuente said ahead of Thursday's friendly against Iraq. Also read | Messi vs Ronaldo at FIFA World Cup 2026: The final chapter as two GOATs set for one last dance While the head coach revealed that the injured duo is ‘progressing as expected’, the two are unlikely to be involved in the team for the friendly against Iraq in A Coruña. When asked specifically about Barcelona teenage star Yamal, De la Fuente said, "If everything continues as it has been so far, he could be ready on June 15, but that doesn't guarantee that he will play." Meanwhile, Spain will be one of the favourites at the 48-team tournament, held across Canada, Mexico and the United States. However, De la Fuente insisted the tournament would be "historic because it is the World Cup in which the most teams have a realistic prospect of winning". After facing Cape Verde, Spain will play Saudi Arabia on June 21 in Atlanta before finishing their group stage campaign against Uruguay in Guadalajara on June 27. Spain's FIFA World Cup Squad - Goalkeepers: Unai Simón (Athletic Bilbao), David Raya (Arsenal), Joan García (Barcelona) Defenders: Pedro Porro (Tottenham), Marcos Llorente (Atleti), Aymeric Laporte (Athletic), Pau Cubarsí (Barça), Marc Pubill (Atleti), Eric García (Barça), Marc Cucurella (Chelsea), Alejandro Grimaldo (Leverkusen) Midfielders: Rodri (Man City), Martín Zubimendi (Arsenal), Pedri (Barça), Fabián Ruiz (PSG), Mikel Merino (Arsenal), Gavi (Barça), Álex Baena (Atleti). Forwards: Mikel Oyarzabal (Real Sociedad), Lamine Yamal (Barça), Ferran Torres (Barça), Borja Iglesias (Celta), Dani Olmo (Barça), Víctor Muñoz (Osasuna), Nico Williams (Athletic), Yéremy Pino (Crystal Palace) (With inputs from AFP)

Lamine Yamal and Nico Williams are racing against time to be fit for Spain's World Cup 2026 opener against Cape Verde. Get the latest update from Luis de la Fuente.

Lamine Yamal, Nico Williams ‘expected’ to be fit for Spain’s World Cup opener: De la Fuente

French Open 2026 continues to produce shocking results. After several A-listers and top-seeded players exited the tournament early, the women’s world number one, Aryna Sabalenka, lost in the quarterfinal to Russian Diana Shnaider in three sets. Court Philippe-Chatrier witnessed another unbelievable outcome at this year’s Roland Garros, with Sabalenka going down 3-6, 7-5, 6-0, becoming the last multi-time Grand Slam champion to bid adieu. Besides, Sabalenka losing the final set 0-6 makes this contest and result all the more shocking.&nbsp;&nbsp;WATCH Sabalenka's losing moment -

<blockquote class="twitter-tweet">WHAT A FINISH!<a href="https://x.com/hashtag/RolandGarros?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#RolandGarros</a> <a href="https://t.co/CTwzs0sAuc">pic.twitter.com/CTwzs0sAuc</a>&mdash; Roland-Garros (@rolandgarros) <a href="https://x.com/rolandgarros/status/2062169488821256216?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">June 3, 2026</a></blockquote> <script async src="https://platform.x.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script>

Leading by a set and double-break at one point in the match, Sabalenka crumbled on the back of unforced errors before exiting the tournament. The winner, Shnaider, will face the Polish qualifier Maja Chwalinska in the semi-finals on Thursday (June 4), with Marta Kostyuk or Mirra Andreeva awaiting the winner in Sunday's final.&nbsp;Also read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/french-open-2026-marta-kostyuk-scripts-history-dedicates-victory-to-ukraine-amid-ongoing-conflict-with-russia-1780457442414">French Open 2026: Marta Kostyuk scripts history, dedicates victory to Ukraine amid ongoing conflict with Russia</a> &nbsp;"Well, honestly, I'm speechless. I'm super happy. Obviously tough conditions with the wind," the 22-year-old Shnaider said, after beating a top-10 player for only the second time in her career. "First time playing Aryna, so definitely a lot of nerves, and I feel the first set was trying to adjust to her game." &nbsp;Playing her first major quarter-finals, Shnaider now finds herself in a position of realising her dream of becoming a French Open champion, with just two more hurdles left. Although plenty needs to be done and is left to be acquired before she could call herself a major winner, the Russian already feels grateful to beat the world number one. &nbsp;"Definitely super happy I managed to finish on a good note rather than start on a good note. Definitely a special tournament for me here," added the Russian. "It's going to be a lefty battle, so I'm looking forward (to the semi-final)."

<blockquote class="twitter-tweet">A special win and a special tournament for Diana Shnaider 🎙️<a href="https://x.com/hashtag/RolandGarros?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#RolandGarros</a> <a href="https://t.co/hEbYk7ttAs">pic.twitter.com/hEbYk7ttAs</a>&mdash; Roland-Garros (@rolandgarros) <a href="https://x.com/rolandgarros/status/2062171730416640171?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">June 3, 2026</a></blockquote> <script async src="https://platform.x.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script>

Meanwhile, Sabalenka’s wait for a French Open title continues after she falters at the closing stages of the tournament once again. Even last year, the title contender conceded a lead, losing to USA’s Coco Gauff in the finale.

Roland Garros shocker! World No. 1 Aryna Sabalenka is knocked out in the quarterfinals by Diana Shnaider after a stunning 0-6 final-set collapse.

French Open 2026 continues to produce shocking results. After several A-listers and top-seeded players exited the tournament early, the women’s world number one, Aryna Sabalenka, lost in the quarterfinal to Russian Diana Shnaider in three sets. Court Philippe-Chatrier witnessed another unbelievable outcome at this year’s Roland Garros, with Sabalenka going down 3-6, 7-5, 6-0, becoming the last multi-time Grand Slam champion to bid adieu. Besides, Sabalenka losing the final set 0-6 makes this contest and result all the more shocking. WATCH Sabalenka's losing moment -

Roland Garros shocker! World No. 1 Aryna Sabalenka is knocked out in the quarterfinals by Diana Shnaider after a stunning 0-6 final-set collapse.

Roland Garros Upset: World No. 1 Aryna Sabalenka knocked out in quarter-finals

Has India found its new cricketing superstar? Perhaps! Vaibhav Sooryavanshi, at 15, is doing wonders. Not only is he making headlines for all the right reasons, but he is also forcing broadcasters to chase him, even if it is for an India-A tour. After owning IPL 2026, the 15-year-old prodigy will don the India jersey for the ODI tri-series (A-tour), including hosts Sri Lanka and Afghanistan. His inclusion in the side sparked significant interest, with the authorities deciding to broadcast the whole series on a full-fledged scale.&nbsp;After his over-the-top IPL 2026, where Vaibhav won as many as five awards, including the MVP, Super Striker and three more, the Sony Sports Network, which holds broadcasting rights for India’s tours of Sri Lanka, will telecast the tri-series, starting June 9. After missing out on broadcasting the ICC tournaments and IPL, with rivals JioHotstar televising all major action lately, Sony holds the rights to showcase Vaibhav’s talent worldwide.&nbsp;Also read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/ind-vs-nz-2026-full-schedule-2-wtc-tests-5-odis-t20is-india-set-for-marathon-new-zealand-tour-this-winters-shubman-gill-wtc-final-cycle-1780487709956">2 WTC Tests, 10 white-ball games: India set for marathon New Zealand tour this winter | Check full schedule</a> &nbsp;Although not new to the praises, Vaibhav earned widespread pats on his back for his scintillating performance in the past year. Since making his IPL debut in the 2025 edition, Vaibhav has won several accolades, including winning the Under-19 ODI World Cup early this year. His second IPL season saw him break an array of records.&nbsp; &nbsp;The left-handed opener scored the most runs by an uncapped player in an edition in the tournament history, scoring 776 runs in 16 matches and winning the Orange Cap for that. He also broke Chris Gayle’s record for the most sixes hit in a season, surpassing Gayle’s tally of 59 (in 2012), clobbering 72 in his second season. His exploits in the Eliminator against the SunRisers Hyderabad (SRH) broke the internet, as he smashed 97 off just 29 balls, his 90-plus score in this season, excluding a hundred. &nbsp;Such was his craze that when he departed on a brilliant 96 against the Gujarat Titans (GT) in Qualifier 2, the crowd at the New Chandigarh Stadium in Mullanpur went silent, reminding everyone of early Sachin Tendulkar days in Indian Cricket.&nbsp; &nbsp;Meanwhile, Dambulla will host all matches.&nbsp;

After a historic, record-breaking season, 15-year-old prodigy Vaibhav Sooryavanshi gears up for India A's tour of Sri Lanka. Catch the live action on Sony!

Has India found its new cricketing superstar? Perhaps! Vaibhav Sooryavanshi, at 15, is doing wonders. Not only is he making headlines for all the right reasons, but he is also forcing broadcasters to chase him, even if it is for an India-A tour. After owning IPL 2026, the 15-year-old prodigy will don the India jersey for the ODI tri-series (A-tour), including hosts Sri Lanka and Afghanistan. His inclusion in the side sparked significant interest, with the authorities deciding to broadcast the whole series on a full-fledged scale. After his over-the-top IPL 2026, where Vaibhav won as many as five awards, including the MVP, Super Striker and three more, the Sony Sports Network, which holds broadcasting rights for India’s tours of Sri Lanka, will telecast the tri-series, starting June 9. After missing out on broadcasting the ICC tournaments and IPL, with rivals JioHotstar televising all major action lately, Sony holds the rights to showcase Vaibhav’s talent worldwide. Also read | 2 WTC Tests, 10 white-ball games: India set for marathon New Zealand tour this winter | Check full schedule Although not new to the praises, Vaibhav earned widespread pats on his back for his scintillating performance in the past year. Since making his IPL debut in the 2025 edition, Vaibhav has won several accolades, including winning the Under-19 ODI World Cup early this year. His second IPL season saw him break an array of records. The left-handed opener scored the most runs by an uncapped player in an edition in the tournament history, scoring 776 runs in 16 matches and winning the Orange Cap for that. He also broke Chris Gayle’s record for the most sixes hit in a season, surpassing Gayle’s tally of 59 (in 2012), clobbering 72 in his second season. His exploits in the Eliminator against the SunRisers Hyderabad (SRH) broke the internet, as he smashed 97 off just 29 balls, his 90-plus score in this season, excluding a hundred. Such was his craze that when he departed on a brilliant 96 against the Gujarat Titans (GT) in Qualifier 2, the crowd at the New Chandigarh Stadium in Mullanpur went silent, reminding everyone of early Sachin Tendulkar days in Indian Cricket. Meanwhile, Dambulla will host all matches.

After a historic, record-breaking season, 15-year-old prodigy Vaibhav Sooryavanshi gears up for India A's tour of Sri Lanka. Catch the live action on Sony!

The ‘Vaibhav Sooryavanshi Effect’: India-A tri-series to be broadcast live; here’s how to watch

With the FIFA World Cup 2026 - the grandest sporting spectacle- just days away from its opener in North America, its Indian broadcaster, Zee Entertainment Enterprises Ltd.(‘Z’), has witnessed a sea of interest from several significant brands looking to leverage this marquee tournament.&nbsp; With the 48-team tournament, to be held over 39 days in three countries (the US, Canada and Mexico) and featuring a total of 104 matches, the leading brands across categories are actively engaging with ‘Z’ to secure premium sponsorship opportunities across the Company’s linear and digital platforms.&nbsp;The launch of the Company’s dedicated sports network comprising Unite8 Sports 1, Unite8 Sports 1 HD, Unite8 Sports 2, and Unite8 Sports 2 HD has generated strong interest among advertisers. This strategic step further reinforces confidence in the Company’s long-term sports strategy to deliver holistic value and offer unparalleled reach and engagement to brands across every touch-point.&nbsp;Also read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/zee-unite8-sports-channels-go-live-as-wait-for-world-cup-broadcast-in-india-ends-1780410015746">Zee Unite8 Sports Channels go live as wait for FIFA World Cup broadcast in India ends</a> &nbsp;Moreover, the global football tournament is also attracting significant advertiser interest across categories on the Company’s digital entertainment platform – Zee 5, driven by its growing scale and the ability to offer targeted, immersive, and measurable brand experiences.&nbsp; &nbsp;The strong momentum across linear and digital platforms underscores the strength of the Company’s omnichannel approach across businesses. The greatest show on Earth - FIFA World Cup 2026™ remains one of the most powerful IPs for brands globally, bringing together passionate audiences, unmatched viewership, and high-impact engagement opportunities. With the countdown underway, brands are increasingly recognising the value of early participation, resulting in strong traction across premium inventory packages and customised partnership opportunities.&nbsp; &nbsp;Commenting on the advertiser response, Sandeep Mehrotra, Chief Operating Officer – Advertisement Revenue, Zee Entertainment Enterprises Ltd., said,&nbsp;&nbsp;"The response to the FIFA World Cup 2026 has been extremely encouraging. We are witnessing strong interest from advertisers across categories, with several leading brands already in advanced stages of engagement and many having started blocking key opportunities well ahead of the tournament. What makes this edition particularly compelling is our omnichannel approach, enabling partners to unlock the full value of the World Cup through an integrated ecosystem spanning television, digital, OTT, social media, influencers, and on-ground experiences. This unified offering allows brands to maximise reach, engagement, and impact through a single, cohesive partnership."&nbsp; &nbsp;The FIFA World Cup 2026™ presents a unique opportunity for advertisers to associate with a premium sporting property that transcends geographies and demographics. Backed by a robust multi-platform ecosystem, ‘Z’ is poised to deliver impactful brand solutions that combine the reach of television with the engagement capabilities of digital platforms.&nbsp; &nbsp;As the tournament draws closer, ‘Z’ remains committed to creating meaningful partnerships that enable brands to maximise visibility and drive strong engagement with audiences across age groups and demographics.

Zee Entertainment sees a surge in advertiser interest for the FIFA World Cup 2026. Find out how brands are leveraging Unite8 Sports and Zee5 for maximum reach.

With the FIFA World Cup 2026 - the grandest sporting spectacle- just days away from its opener in North America, its Indian broadcaster, Zee Entertainment Enterprises Ltd.(‘Z’), has witnessed a sea of interest from several significant brands looking to leverage this marquee tournament. With the 48-team tournament, to be held over 39 days in three countries (the US, Canada and Mexico) and featuring a total of 104 matches, the leading brands across categories are actively engaging with ‘Z’ to secure premium sponsorship opportunities across the Company’s linear and digital platforms. The launch of the Company’s dedicated sports network comprising Unite8 Sports 1, Unite8 Sports 1 HD, Unite8 Sports 2, and Unite8 Sports 2 HD has generated strong interest among advertisers. This strategic step further reinforces confidence in the Company’s long-term sports strategy to deliver holistic value and offer unparalleled reach and engagement to brands across every touch-point. Also read | Zee Unite8 Sports Channels go live as wait for FIFA World Cup broadcast in India ends Moreover, the global football tournament is also attracting significant advertiser interest across categories on the Company’s digital entertainment platform – Zee 5, driven by its growing scale and the ability to offer targeted, immersive, and measurable brand experiences. The strong momentum across linear and digital platforms underscores the strength of the Company’s omnichannel approach across businesses. The greatest show on Earth - FIFA World Cup 2026™ remains one of the most powerful IPs for brands globally, bringing together passionate audiences, unmatched viewership, and high-impact engagement opportunities. With the countdown underway, brands are increasingly recognising the value of early participation, resulting in strong traction across premium inventory packages and customised partnership opportunities. Commenting on the advertiser response, Sandeep Mehrotra, Chief Operating Officer – Advertisement Revenue, Zee Entertainment Enterprises Ltd., said, "The response to the FIFA World Cup 2026 has been extremely encouraging. We are witnessing strong interest from advertisers across categories, with several leading brands already in advanced stages of engagement and many having started blocking key opportunities well ahead of the tournament. What makes this edition particularly compelling is our omnichannel approach, enabling partners to unlock the full value of the World Cup through an integrated ecosystem spanning television, digital, OTT, social media, influencers, and on-ground experiences. This unified offering allows brands to maximise reach, engagement, and impact through a single, cohesive partnership." The FIFA World Cup 2026™ presents a unique opportunity for advertisers to associate with a premium sporting property that transcends geographies and demographics. Backed by a robust multi-platform ecosystem, ‘Z’ is poised to deliver impactful brand solutions that combine the reach of television with the engagement capabilities of digital platforms. As the tournament draws closer, ‘Z’ remains committed to creating meaningful partnerships that enable brands to maximise visibility and drive strong engagement with audiences across age groups and demographics.

Zee Entertainment sees a surge in advertiser interest for the FIFA World Cup 2026. Find out how brands are leveraging Unite8 Sports and Zee5 for maximum reach.

Big brands rush to buy ads for the FIFA World Cup 2026 on Zee

The IPL 2026 is over, and Team India will be back playing international cricket, with the first goal being to qualify for the WTC Final next year. Currently sixth on the WTC table for the 2025-27 cycle, India will play nine scheduled Tests, including two against New Zealand later this winter. New Zealand Cricket (NZC) announced its schedule for the home summer, with the Men in Blue slated to play five T20Is and as many ODIs in the 12-match full-fledged tour from October to December.&nbsp;India will begin its tour with five T20Is, starting with the first two at the Hagley Oval in Christchurch on October 22 and 24. Wellington, Auckland and Hamilton will then host the remaining three T20Is on October 27, 30 and November 1, respectively. Following a two-day window, Auckland will host the ODI series opener on November 4. Wellington (November 7) and Hamilton (November 10) are venues for the second and the third ODI, with Mount Maunganui staging the final two One-Dayers on November 13 and 15, respectively.&nbsp;Also read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/ind-w-vs-eng-w-3rd-t20i-harmanpreet-s-50-goes-in-vain-as-england-seal-series-2-1-after-capsey-and-knight-masterclass-1780450151980">IND-W vs ENG-W 3rd T20I: Harmanpreet's 50 goes in vain as England seal series 2-1 after Capsey and Knight masterclass</a> &nbsp;The Test series gets underway in Wellington on November 19, with the second Test scheduled in Christchurch starting November 27. &nbsp;"The New Zealand government will be supporting the inbound India tour alongside adjacent sporting tours by India later in the year, as 100 years of sporting ties between New Zealand and India are commemorated," the NZC statement said. &nbsp;For India, this tour would hold great significance. While the 10 white-ball games will help them prepare for the ODI and T20 World Cups that follow, the two Tests will be Team India’s priority. To qualify for their third WTC final, India must at least win seven of their remaining nine Tests, two of which would be played on quick and double-paced New Zealand pitches. &nbsp;Yet to win a Test series in New Zealand since 2009, Shubman Gill-led India’s Test team will aim to end their winning drought in those challenging conditions. &nbsp;New Zealand, however, will also host Sri Lanka for three ODIs, as many T20Is and two Tests from January 16 to February 12. In between the two series, New Zealand will also host Bangladesh for three T20Is and as many ODIs from December 10 to 23.&nbsp;<h3>Check Team India's Full Schedule -&nbsp;</h3>T20I Series -<ul><li>1st T20I - October 22</li><li>2nd T20I – October 24</li><li>3rd T20I – October 27</li><li>4th T20I – October 30</li><li>5th T20I – November 1</li></ul>ODI Series –<ul><li>1st ODI – November 4</li><li>2nd ODI – November 7</li><li>3rd ODI – November 10</li><li>4th ODI – November 13</li><li>5th ODI – November 15</li></ul>Test Series –<ul><li>1st Test – November 19 to 2</li><li>2nd Test – November 27 to December 1</li></ul>

Get the full schedule, match dates, and venues for India's marathon 12-match winter tour of New Zealand 2026. Can Shubman Gill's men seal vital WTC points?

The IPL 2026 is over, and Team India will be back playing international cricket, with the first goal being to qualify for the WTC Final next year. Currently sixth on the WTC table for the 2025-27 cycle, India will play nine scheduled Tests, including two against New Zealand later this winter. New Zealand Cricket (NZC) announced its schedule for the home summer, with the Men in Blue slated to play five T20Is and as many ODIs in the 12-match full-fledged tour from October to December. India will begin its tour with five T20Is, starting with the first two at the Hagley Oval in Christchurch on October 22 and 24. Wellington, Auckland and Hamilton will then host the remaining three T20Is on October 27, 30 and November 1, respectively. Following a two-day window, Auckland will host the ODI series opener on November 4. Wellington (November 7) and Hamilton (November 10) are venues for the second and the third ODI, with Mount Maunganui staging the final two One-Dayers on November 13 and 15, respectively. Also read | IND-W vs ENG-W 3rd T20I: Harmanpreet's 50 goes in vain as England seal series 2-1 after Capsey and Knight masterclass The Test series gets underway in Wellington on November 19, with the second Test scheduled in Christchurch starting November 27. "The New Zealand government will be supporting the inbound India tour alongside adjacent sporting tours by India later in the year, as 100 years of sporting ties between New Zealand and India are commemorated," the NZC statement said. For India, this tour would hold great significance. While the 10 white-ball games will help them prepare for the ODI and T20 World Cups that follow, the two Tests will be Team India’s priority. To qualify for their third WTC final, India must at least win seven of their remaining nine Tests, two of which would be played on quick and double-paced New Zealand pitches. Yet to win a Test series in New Zealand since 2009, Shubman Gill-led India’s Test team will aim to end their winning drought in those challenging conditions. New Zealand, however, will also host Sri Lanka for three ODIs, as many T20Is and two Tests from January 16 to February 12. In between the two series, New Zealand will also host Bangladesh for three T20Is and as many ODIs from December 10 to 23. Check Team India's Full Schedule - T20I Series - 1st T20I - October 22 2nd T20I – October 24 3rd T20I – October 27 4th T20I – October 30 5th T20I – November 1 ODI Series – 1st ODI – November 4 2nd ODI – November 7 3rd ODI – November 10 4th ODI – November 13 5th ODI – November 15 Test Series – 1st Test – November 19 to 2 2nd Test – November 27 to December 1

Get the full schedule, match dates, and venues for India's marathon 12-match winter tour of New Zealand 2026. Can Shubman Gill's men seal vital WTC points?

2 WTC Tests, 10 white-ball games: India set for marathon New Zealand tour this winter| Check full schedule

The New York Knicks and San Antonio Spurs will face off in the NBA Finals beginning on Thursday (June 4), with both franchises aiming to end lengthy championship droughts. Led by Victor Wembanyama, the Spurs have reached the NBA Finals for the first time since 2014. The franchise last appeared on basketball's biggest stage when it defeated LeBron James and the Miami Heat to capture the Larry O'Brien Trophy.&nbsp;The Knicks are back in the Finals for the first time since 1999, when they also faced the Spurs. New York is seeking its first NBA championship since 1973, ending a 53-year wait for the title. The matchup guarantees that the NBA will crown a different champion for the eighth consecutive season, highlighting the league's growing competitive balance.<h2>How do the teams reach the Finals?</h2>San Antonio booked its place in the Finals after staging a stunning comeback from a 3-2 series deficit to eliminate defending champions Oklahoma City Thunder in the Western Conference Finals. The Knicks enjoyed a smoother path, sweeping the Cleveland Cavaliers 4-0 in the Eastern Conference Finals. New York enters the championship series riding an 11-game winning streak.<h2>Projected starting lineups</h2>New York Knicks: Jalen Brunson (PG), Mikal Bridges (SG), OG Anunoby (SF), Josh Hart (PF), Karl-Anthony Towns (C)San Antonio Spurs: Stephon Castle (PG), De'Aaron Fox (SG), Devin Vassell (SF), Julian Champagnie (PF), Victor Wembanyama (C)<h2>What is the format in the NBA Finals?</h2>The NBA Finals will be played in a best-of-seven format. As the higher-seeded team, the Spurs will host Games 1, 2, 5, and, if necessary, Game 7 at Frost Bank Center. Games 3, 4, and, if necessary, Game 6 will be played at Madison Square Garden in New York.<h2>NBA Finals 2026 schedule (IST)</h2><ul><li>Game 1: Knicks vs Spurs – June 4, 6:00 AM</li><li>Game 2: Knicks vs Spurs – June 6, 6:00 AM</li><li>Game 3: Spurs vs Knicks – June 9, 6:00 AM</li><li>Game 4: Spurs vs Knicks – June 11, 6:00 AM</li><li>Game 5: Knicks vs Spurs – June 14, 6:00 AM (if necessary)</li><li>Game 6: Spurs vs Knicks – June 17, 6:00 AM (if necessary)</li><li>Game 7: Knicks vs Spurs – June 20, 6:00 AM (if necessary)</li></ul>All games are scheduled to begin at 8:30 PM ET.<h2>Live streaming information</h2>Fans in India can watch the NBA Finals through the league's official YouTube channel, with no television broadcast available.In the United States, every game will be televised on ABC and streamed live via the ESPN app.

The New York Knicks and San Antonio Spurs clash in the 2026 NBA Finals. Check schedule, start times, lineups, live streaming details, and key storylines

The New York Knicks and San Antonio Spurs will face off in the NBA Finals beginning on Thursday (June 4), with both franchises aiming to end lengthy championship droughts. Led by Victor Wembanyama, the Spurs have reached the NBA Finals for the first time since 2014. The franchise last appeared on basketball's biggest stage when it defeated LeBron James and the Miami Heat to capture the Larry O'Brien Trophy. The Knicks are back in the Finals for the first time since 1999, when they also faced the Spurs. New York is seeking its first NBA championship since 1973, ending a 53-year wait for the title. The matchup guarantees that the NBA will crown a different champion for the eighth consecutive season, highlighting the league's growing competitive balance. How do the teams reach the Finals? San Antonio booked its place in the Finals after staging a stunning comeback from a 3-2 series deficit to eliminate defending champions Oklahoma City Thunder in the Western Conference Finals. The Knicks enjoyed a smoother path, sweeping the Cleveland Cavaliers 4-0 in the Eastern Conference Finals. New York enters the championship series riding an 11-game winning streak. Projected starting lineups New York Knicks: Jalen Brunson (PG), Mikal Bridges (SG), OG Anunoby (SF), Josh Hart (PF), Karl-Anthony Towns (C) San Antonio Spurs: Stephon Castle (PG), De'Aaron Fox (SG), Devin Vassell (SF), Julian Champagnie (PF), Victor Wembanyama (C) What is the format in the NBA Finals? The NBA Finals will be played in a best-of-seven format. As the higher-seeded team, the Spurs will host Games 1, 2, 5, and, if necessary, Game 7 at Frost Bank Center. Games 3, 4, and, if necessary, Game 6 will be played at Madison Square Garden in New York. NBA Finals 2026 schedule (IST) Game 1: Knicks vs Spurs – June 4, 6:00 AM Game 2: Knicks vs Spurs – June 6, 6:00 AM Game 3: Spurs vs Knicks – June 9, 6:00 AM Game 4: Spurs vs Knicks – June 11, 6:00 AM Game 5: Knicks vs Spurs – June 14, 6:00 AM (if necessary) Game 6: Spurs vs Knicks – June 17, 6:00 AM (if necessary) Game 7: Knicks vs Spurs – June 20, 6:00 AM (if necessary) All games are scheduled to begin at 8:30 PM ET. Live streaming information Fans in India can watch the NBA Finals through the league's official YouTube channel, with no television broadcast available. In the United States, every game will be televised on ABC and streamed live via the ESPN app.

Knicks and Spurs meet in the 2026 NBA Finals as both franchises seek to end long title droughts in a historic championship showdown

NBA Finals 2026: San Antonio Spurs vs New York Knicks. Check schedule, start time, live streaming and teams

For nearly twenty years, football fans have argued about one question more than any other. Who is the greatest? Is it Lionel Messi, the magician capable of making the impossible look routine? Or Cristiano Ronaldo, the relentless perfectionist who turned ambition into an art form? The debate crossed continents, generations, and languages. It dominated playgrounds, pubs, television studios, and social media timelines. It survived club changes, international heartbreaks, and the rise of new stars. And somehow, after all these years, it still refuses to die.&nbsp;As the FIFA World Cup 2026 approaches, football finds itself preparing for a moment that once seemed unimaginable. Messi and Ronaldo are expected to feature in a sixth World Cup, a feat that speaks not only to their greatness but also to their extraordinary longevity. For a generation of fans, football has never existed without them. The numbers are staggering. More than 1,700 career goals. Countless domestic titles. Multiple Champions League crowns. A collection of Ballon d'Or awards that may never be matched. Together, they pushed each other to heights previously thought impossible.&nbsp;Yet statistics alone fail to explain their impact. Messi and Ronaldo did not merely dominate football. They transformed it. Every week became an event. Every goal sparked another round in a rivalry that redefined excellence. When one scored a hat-trick, the other seemed determined to answer. When one lifted a trophy, the other found fresh motivation. For over a decade, the sport revolved around two men chasing greatness at a pace nobody else could match.&nbsp;Also Read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/photos/meet-the-breakout-players-who-could-define-the-2026-fifa-world-cup-1780466560228">Meet the breakout players who could define the 2026 FIFA World Cup</a>&nbsp;Now, however, the conversation feels different. The debate is no longer about who is better. It is about appreciating what football is about to lose. World Cup 2026 could represent the final appearance of both icons on the grandest stage of all. Messi arrives as a world champion, having completed football after lifting the trophy in Qatar. The burden that followed him throughout much of his international career has disappeared. Everything from here feels like a bonus chapter in an already perfect story.&nbsp;Ronaldo's journey carries a different emotion. The World Cup remains the one trophy that has consistently eluded him. He has conquered England, Spain, Italy, and international football with Portugal, but the game's biggest prize still sits just beyond reach. Even in his forties, he continues to chase that dream with the same hunger that defined him as a teenager. That contrast makes the 2026 tournament fascinating.&nbsp;One legend arrives with nothing left to prove. The other arrives with one final mountain to climb. And hanging over it all is a possibility football fans have dreamed about for years. Despite sharing an era, despite countless comparisons and endless debates, Messi and Ronaldo have never faced each other at a FIFA World Cup. Argentina and Portugal have never met on football's biggest stage. World Cup 2026 may be the sport's last opportunity to deliver that moment.&nbsp;Perhaps it will happen. Perhaps it won't. But maybe that is not the point. Because the real story is bigger than a single match. The real story is that football's defining era is approaching its final whistle. When Messi and Ronaldo eventually walk away, they will leave behind more than records and trophies. They will leave behind memories. They will leave behind moments that united and divided fans in equal measure. They will leave behind a standard of excellence that forced everyone around them to improve.&nbsp;Most importantly, they will leave behind an era that many believe can never be repeated. There will be new stars. There always are. But there may never again be two players who dominate the sport simultaneously for so long, at such a level, while carrying the weight of global expectation every single week. That is why the World Cup 2026 feels bigger than football. It is not just another tournament. It is a farewell tour for the greatest rivalry the modern game has ever known. One last dance. One last dream. One final chapter in a story that changed football forever.&nbsp;Years from now, fans may forget the arguments and the statistics. What they won't forget is that they were lucky enough to witness Messi and Ronaldo at the same time.

Lionel Messi and Cristiano Ronaldo are set for a historic sixth FIFA World Cup in 2026. Explore their legendary rivalry, records, legacy, and the possibility of a dream World Cup showdown

For nearly twenty years, football fans have argued about one question more than any other. Who is the greatest? Is it Lionel Messi, the magician capable of making the impossible look routine? Or Cristiano Ronaldo, the relentless perfectionist who turned ambition into an art form? The debate crossed continents, generations, and languages. It dominated playgrounds, pubs, television studios, and social media timelines. It survived club changes, international heartbreaks, and the rise of new stars. And somehow, after all these years, it still refuses to die. As the FIFA World Cup 2026 approaches, football finds itself preparing for a moment that once seemed unimaginable. Messi and Ronaldo are expected to feature in a sixth World Cup, a feat that speaks not only to their greatness but also to their extraordinary longevity. For a generation of fans, football has never existed without them. The numbers are staggering. More than 1,700 career goals. Countless domestic titles. Multiple Champions League crowns. A collection of Ballon d'Or awards that may never be matched. Together, they pushed each other to heights previously thought impossible. Yet statistics alone fail to explain their impact. Messi and Ronaldo did not merely dominate football. They transformed it. Every week became an event. Every goal sparked another round in a rivalry that redefined excellence. When one scored a hat-trick, the other seemed determined to answer. When one lifted a trophy, the other found fresh motivation. For over a decade, the sport revolved around two men chasing greatness at a pace nobody else could match. Also Read: Meet the breakout players who could define the 2026 FIFA World Cup Now, however, the conversation feels different. The debate is no longer about who is better. It is about appreciating what football is about to lose. World Cup 2026 could represent the final appearance of both icons on the grandest stage of all. Messi arrives as a world champion, having completed football after lifting the trophy in Qatar. The burden that followed him throughout much of his international career has disappeared. Everything from here feels like a bonus chapter in an already perfect story. Ronaldo's journey carries a different emotion. The World Cup remains the one trophy that has consistently eluded him. He has conquered England, Spain, Italy, and international football with Portugal, but the game's biggest prize still sits just beyond reach. Even in his forties, he continues to chase that dream with the same hunger that defined him as a teenager. That contrast makes the 2026 tournament fascinating. One legend arrives with nothing left to prove. The other arrives with one final mountain to climb. And hanging over it all is a possibility football fans have dreamed about for years. Despite sharing an era, despite countless comparisons and endless debates, Messi and Ronaldo have never faced each other at a FIFA World Cup. Argentina and Portugal have never met on football's biggest stage. World Cup 2026 may be the sport's last opportunity to deliver that moment. Perhaps it will happen. Perhaps it won't. But maybe that is not the point. Because the real story is bigger than a single match. The real story is that football's defining era is approaching its final whistle. When Messi and Ronaldo eventually walk away, they will leave behind more than records and trophies. They will leave behind memories. They will leave behind moments that united and divided fans in equal measure. They will leave behind a standard of excellence that forced everyone around them to improve. Most importantly, they will leave behind an era that many believe can never be repeated. There will be new stars. There always are. But there may never again be two players who dominate the sport simultaneously for so long, at such a level, while carrying the weight of global expectation every single week. That is why the World Cup 2026 feels bigger than football. It is not just another tournament. It is a farewell tour for the greatest rivalry the modern game has ever known. One last dance. One last dream. One final chapter in a story that changed football forever. Years from now, fans may forget the arguments and the statistics. What they won't forget is that they were lucky enough to witness Messi and Ronaldo at the same time.

Lionel Messi and Cristiano Ronaldo head into a historic sixth FIFA World Cup, giving football one final chapter in its greatest-ever rivalry

Messi vs Ronaldo at FIFA World Cup 2026: The final chapter as two GOATs set for one last dance

The Hollywood Chamber of Commerce has announced that David Beckham is all set to receive a star on the Hollywood Walk of Fame later this month. This marks another milestone in the remarkable career of the former England captain.<h2>David Beckham to receive Hollywood Walk of Fame</h2>As per Variety, he will receive the honour in Los Angeles on June 12. This date is special because it aligns with the opening stages of the FIFA World Cup 2026, which is being hosted across the United States, Canada and Mexico.&nbsp;Also Read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/entertainment/bollywood/news-david-beckham-pens-a-thankyou-not-for-shah-rukh-and-sonam-hosted-me-with-such-warmth-and-kindness-660102">David Beckham pens a thankyou note for Shah Rukh and Sonam</a>&nbsp;The event is reportedly expected to happen on Hollywood Boulevard, with Beckham's star being unveiled just hours before a World Cup fixture between the United States and Paraguay in Inglewood, California.&nbsp;

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overflow:hidden; padding:8px 0 7px; text-align:center; text-overflow:ellipsis; white-space:nowrap;"><a href="https://www.instagram.com/p/DXfGmOliKSi/?utm_source=ig_embed&amp;utm_campaign=loading" style=" color:#c9c8cd; font-family:Arial,sans-serif; font-size:14px; font-style:normal; font-weight:normal; line-height:17px; text-decoration:none;" target="_blank">A post shared by David Beckham (@davidbeckham)</a></div></blockquote>
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Also Read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/football-david-beckham-hails-knighthood-as-proudest-moment-after-special-ceremony-at-windsor-castle-1762276429695">David Beckham hails knighthood as 'proudest moment' after special ceremony at Windsor Castle</a><h2>Ana Martinez on Beckham's achievement</h2>According to DW, opening up about the significance of the recognition, Ana Martinez of the Hollywood Chamber of Commerce said, "David Beckham's recognition with a Hollywood Walk of Fame star in the Sports Entertainment category comes at a fitting moment as the United States prepares to host the FIFA World Cup."&nbsp;Also Read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/photos/beckham-vs-beckhams-brooklyn-most-shocking-claims-against-victoria-and-david-from-being-called-evil-to-alleged-bribes-1768904791739">Beckham vs Beckhams: Brooklyn most shocking claims against Victoria and David - from being called ‘evil’ to alleged bribes</a>&nbsp;She further added, "Beckham's role in elevating soccer's profile in America and his lasting influence on sports, entertainment, and global culture make this honor especially meaningful."&nbsp;

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<h2>Beckham's legacy</h2>Beckham is known for his remarkable contribution to football for over multiple decades. He received prominence with Manchester United in the 1990s and is said to be one of the most recognizable figures in the world of sports.&nbsp;Also Read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/entertainment/lifestyle/david-beckham-s-alleged-ex-reacts-to-brooklyn-s-ig-post-says-truth-always-comes-out-1768968596273">David Beckham’s alleged ex reacts to Brooklyn's IG post, says, 'Truth always comes out'</a>&nbsp;Additionally, he is also a part of the entertainment industry. In 2019, Beckham co-founded production company Studio 99, and his public profile grew after his marriage to Victoria Beckham, formerly of the Spice Girls.&nbsp;The Walk of Fame honour comes just months after Beckham received a knighthood from King Charles III.&nbsp;

David Beckham is all set to receive a star on the Hollywood Walk of Fame later this week. This update comes within a year after the former England captain received a knighthood from King Charles III.

The Hollywood Chamber of Commerce has announced that David Beckham is all set to receive a star on the Hollywood Walk of Fame later this month. This marks another milestone in the remarkable career of the former England captain. David Beckham to receive Hollywood Walk of Fame As per Variety, he will receive the honour in Los Angeles on June 12. This date is special because it aligns with the opening stages of the FIFA World Cup 2026, which is being hosted across the United States, Canada and Mexico. Also Read: David Beckham pens a thankyou note for Shah Rukh and Sonam The event is reportedly expected to happen on Hollywood Boulevard, with Beckham's star being unveiled just hours before a World Cup fixture between the United States and Paraguay in Inglewood, California.

David Beckham is all set to receive a star on the Hollywood Walk of Fame later this week. This update comes within a year after the former England captain received a knighthood from King Charles III.

David Beckham to join Hollywood legends with Walk of Fame star ahead of FIFA World Cup 2026

The 2026 FIFA World Cup will introduce a new generation of stars. Discover why Michael Olise, Morgan Rogers, Fermín López, Nico Paz, Aleksandar Pavlović and Ibrahim Mbaye are tipped for breakout tournaments

From Michael Olise to Nico Paz, meet six young stars poised to make their mark and become breakout sensations at the upcoming 2026 FIFA World Cup

Meet the breakout players who could define the 2026 FIFA World Cup

One of the most iconic pieces of football history is set to go under the hammer later this month as the jersey worn by Pele during the 1958 FIFA World Cup final is expected to sell for more than $6 million at a Sotheby’s auction. Bidding for the legendary shirt will start on June 29 and end on July 16, just three days before this summer’s World Cup final. The sale is expected to establish a new record for Pele memorabilia and could challenge the all-time record for the most expensive football jersey ever sold. That record currently belongs to Diego Maradona’s famous ‘Hand of God’ shirt, which fetched $9.28 million in 2022.&nbsp;Pele, just 17 years old at the time, scored twice in Brazil’s 5-2 victory over Sweden in the 1958 World Cup final. He remains the youngest player ever to both appear in and score during a World Cup final. The win marked Brazil’s first World Cup title and the beginning of a football dynasty that would eventually earn five championships. Following the historic victory, Pele gifted his No. 10 jersey to teammate and roommate Dida (Edvaldo Alves Santa Rosa).&nbsp;Also Read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/norway-chess-2026-praggnanandhaa-beats-magnus-carlsen-again-firouzja-defeats-gukesh-as-title-race-heats-up-1780458834361">Norway Chess 2026: Praggnanandhaa beats Magnus Carlsen again! Firouzja defeats Gukesh as title race heats up</a>&nbsp;The shirt stayed with Dida’s family in Maceio, Brazil, before being donated in 1993 to the Museu dos Esportes Edvaldo Alves Santa Rosa. The museum later sold the jersey at auction in September 2004, where it was purchased for approximately $105,000. More than two decades later, the owner has decided to put the treasured item back on the market.&nbsp;“This is not merely a shirt, it is the garment worn by one of the greatest footballers in history on the night his reign began, passed by his own hand to a friend and preserved with care for more than six decades,” head of Sotheby’s modern collectables Brahm Wachter said in a statement. “Its historical importance is without parallel in the football memorabilia market and is inseparable from the legacy of the sport’s first true global icon.”&nbsp;The growing value of Pele collectibles extends beyond jerseys. In February 2022, a 1958 Alifabolaget Pele card graded PSA 9 sold privately for $1.33 million, becoming the first soccer trading card to surpass the seven-figure mark. Since then, a Lionel Messi rookie card has sold for $1.5 million, while a Cristiano Ronaldo card recently reached $1.35 million.&nbsp;The remarkable estimate for the 1958 World Cup jersey also highlights the rapid growth of the sports memorabilia market. In 2016, a three-day auction featuring more than 2,000 Pele items, including his World Cup medals, trophies, and commemorative crown from his 1,000th match, fetnearly $4.2 million in total sales. The current valuation of the single 1958 final jersey exceeds that figure by almost $2 million.

Pelé’s iconic 1958 FIFA World Cup final jersey is expected to sell for over $6 million at Sotheby’s. Discover the history, auction details, and memorabilia market impact

One of the most iconic pieces of football history is set to go under the hammer later this month as the jersey worn by Pele during the 1958 FIFA World Cup final is expected to sell for more than $6 million at a Sotheby’s auction. Bidding for the legendary shirt will start on June 29 and end on July 16, just three days before this summer’s World Cup final. The sale is expected to establish a new record for Pele memorabilia and could challenge the all-time record for the most expensive football jersey ever sold. That record currently belongs to Diego Maradona’s famous ‘Hand of God’ shirt, which fetched $9.28 million in 2022. Pele, just 17 years old at the time, scored twice in Brazil’s 5-2 victory over Sweden in the 1958 World Cup final. He remains the youngest player ever to both appear in and score during a World Cup final. The win marked Brazil’s first World Cup title and the beginning of a football dynasty that would eventually earn five championships. Following the historic victory, Pele gifted his No. 10 jersey to teammate and roommate Dida (Edvaldo Alves Santa Rosa). Also Read: Norway Chess 2026: Praggnanandhaa beats Magnus Carlsen again! Firouzja defeats Gukesh as title race heats up The shirt stayed with Dida’s family in Maceio, Brazil, before being donated in 1993 to the Museu dos Esportes Edvaldo Alves Santa Rosa. The museum later sold the jersey at auction in September 2004, where it was purchased for approximately $105,000. More than two decades later, the owner has decided to put the treasured item back on the market. “This is not merely a shirt, it is the garment worn by one of the greatest footballers in history on the night his reign began, passed by his own hand to a friend and preserved with care for more than six decades,” head of Sotheby’s modern collectables Brahm Wachter said in a statement. “Its historical importance is without parallel in the football memorabilia market and is inseparable from the legacy of the sport’s first true global icon.” The growing value of Pele collectibles extends beyond jerseys. In February 2022, a 1958 Alifabolaget Pele card graded PSA 9 sold privately for $1.33 million, becoming the first soccer trading card to surpass the seven-figure mark. Since then, a Lionel Messi rookie card has sold for $1.5 million, while a Cristiano Ronaldo card recently reached $1.35 million. The remarkable estimate for the 1958 World Cup jersey also highlights the rapid growth of the sports memorabilia market. In 2016, a three-day auction featuring more than 2,000 Pele items, including his World Cup medals, trophies, and commemorative crown from his 1,000th match, fetnearly $4.2 million in total sales. The current valuation of the single 1958 final jersey exceeds that figure by almost $2 million.

Pele's 1958 World Cup final jersey heads to Sotheby’s with a $6 million+ estimate, potentially becoming one of football’s most valuable items

Pele's historic 1958 World Cup final jersey heads to auction with record-breaking estimate. Here's how much it is valued at

Round 8 of Norway Chess 2026 proved to be a defining day in Oslo, with two decisive classical victories and one Armageddon showdown reshaping the battle for the championship. Alireza Firouzja secured a crucial classical win against World Champion Gukesh Dommaraju. Playing with the white pieces, Firouzja successfully navigated a tense endgame amid severe time pressure from both players, converting his advantage and moving within a single point of tournament leader Wesley So.&nbsp;Meanwhile, Praggnanandhaa Rameshbabu delivered another remarkable performance by defeating Magnus Carlsen for the second time in the tournament. The 20-year-old Indian grandmaster, who had previously beaten Carlsen with the white pieces earlier in the event, repeated the feat with the black pieces in Round 8, significantly tightening the title race.&nbsp;With this achievement, Praggnanandhaa became only the second player, after India’s chess icon Viswanathan Anand, to defeat Carlsen twice in the same tournament. He also joined an elite group of players who have beaten the five-time World Champion three times in classical chess. The remaining classical encounter between Wesley So and Vincent Keymer ended in a draw.&nbsp;&nbsp;However, So emerged victorious in the Armageddon tiebreak, earning additional points and maintaining his lead at the top of the&nbsp;standings. Following Round 8, Wesley So leads Norway Chess 2026 with 14 points. Firouzja sits just behind on 13 points, while Praggnanandhaa remains firmly in contention with 12 points heading into the final rounds.<h2>Norway Chess Women Round 8: Assaubayeva beats Divya</h2>The women’s tournament also featured two decisive classical games and one Armageddon decider, with Bibisara Assaubayeva strengthening her grip on first place. Assaubayeva recorded an important classical victory over Divya Deshmukh. Playing with the black pieces, the tournament leader absorbed pressure effectively before capitalizing on time trouble to secure the full point.&nbsp;Zhu Jiner also registered a significant classical win, defeating reigning Women’s World Champion Ju Wenjun. Consistent endgame pressure allowed Zhu to convert her advantage and move level with Divya Deshmukh on 10 points. The clash between Anna Muzychuk and Humpy Koneru ended in a classical draw.&nbsp;&nbsp;Their Armageddon encounter remained closely contested before Humpy ultimately prevailed with the black pieces, claiming the bonus points. After Round 8, Bibisara Assaubayeva leads the Norway Chess Women standings with 15.5 points. Anna Muzychuk follows on 10.5 points, while Divya Deshmukh and Zhu Jiner are tied on 10 points each.

Norway Chess 2026 Round 8 saw Praggnanandhaa defeat Magnus Carlsen again, Alireza Firouzja beat Gukesh, and Wesley So maintain the lead. Get updated standings, results, and key highlights from Norway Chess and Norway Chess Women 2026

Round 8 of Norway Chess 2026 proved to be a defining day in Oslo, with two decisive classical victories and one Armageddon showdown reshaping the battle for the championship. Alireza Firouzja secured a crucial classical win against World Champion Gukesh Dommaraju. Playing with the white pieces, Firouzja successfully navigated a tense endgame amid severe time pressure from both players, converting his advantage and moving within a single point of tournament leader Wesley So. Meanwhile, Praggnanandhaa Rameshbabu delivered another remarkable performance by defeating Magnus Carlsen for the second time in the tournament. The 20-year-old Indian grandmaster, who had previously beaten Carlsen with the white pieces earlier in the event, repeated the feat with the black pieces in Round 8, significantly tightening the title race. With this achievement, Praggnanandhaa became only the second player, after India’s chess icon Viswanathan Anand, to defeat Carlsen twice in the same tournament. He also joined an elite group of players who have beaten the five-time World Champion three times in classical chess. The remaining classical encounter between Wesley So and Vincent Keymer ended in a draw. However, So emerged victorious in the Armageddon tiebreak, earning additional points and maintaining his lead at the top of the standings. Following Round 8, Wesley So leads Norway Chess 2026 with 14 points. Firouzja sits just behind on 13 points, while Praggnanandhaa remains firmly in contention with 12 points heading into the final rounds. Norway Chess Women Round 8: Assaubayeva beats Divya The women’s tournament also featured two decisive classical games and one Armageddon decider, with Bibisara Assaubayeva strengthening her grip on first place. Assaubayeva recorded an important classical victory over Divya Deshmukh. Playing with the black pieces, the tournament leader absorbed pressure effectively before capitalizing on time trouble to secure the full point. Zhu Jiner also registered a significant classical win, defeating reigning Women’s World Champion Ju Wenjun. Consistent endgame pressure allowed Zhu to convert her advantage and move level with Divya Deshmukh on 10 points. The clash between Anna Muzychuk and Humpy Koneru ended in a classical draw. Their Armageddon encounter remained closely contested before Humpy ultimately prevailed with the black pieces, claiming the bonus points. After Round 8, Bibisara Assaubayeva leads the Norway Chess Women standings with 15.5 points. Anna Muzychuk follows on 10.5 points, while Divya Deshmukh and Zhu Jiner are tied on 10 points each.

Praggnanandhaa stuns Magnus Carlsen again, Firouzja beats Gukesh, and Wesley So retains the lead after a dramatic Round 8 in Norway Chess 2026

Norway Chess 2026: Praggnanandhaa beats Magnus Carlsen again! Firouzja defeats Gukesh as title race heats up

Marta Kostyuk produced a historic performance at the French Open, defeating fellow Ukrainian Elina Svitolina to become the first Ukrainian woman in the Open Era to reach the Roland Garros singles semifinals. The 23-year-old overcame seventh seed Svitolina 6-3, 2-6, 6-2 in the first Grand Slam quarterfinal contested between two Ukrainian women. The victory came amid continued turmoil in Ukraine, following a deadly missile and drone attack that claimed at least 18 lives across the country.&nbsp;After the match, an emotional Kostyuk dedicated her win to her homeland. Speaking on court following her 6-3, 2-6 and 6-2 win, Kostyuk said, “We had another difficult night in Ukraine, especially in Kyiv, where so many people died, so I want to give this match to Ukraine.” The crowd on Court Philippe Chatrier responded with a prolonged standing ovation as Kostyuk fought back tears. Former Wimbledon champion Marion Bartoli, conducting the on-court interview, embraced the Ukrainian star during the emotional moment.&nbsp;Kostyuk also praised her opponent and compatriot, acknowledging Svitolina’s influence on Ukrainian tennis. She said, “I want to point out Elina's incredible impact on tennis, Ukrainians, and me. She is incredible.” With the victory, Kostyuk became the first Ukrainian singles player to reach the French Open semifinals since Andrei Medvedev achieved the feat in 1999. She now advances to a highly anticipated semifinal against Russian teenager Mirra Andreeva for a place in the championship match.&nbsp;Also Read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/fifa-world-cup-2026-here-s-why-switzerland-s-star-breel-embolo-was-blocked-from-boarding-team-flight-to-us-1780453997319">FIFA World Cup 2026: Here's why Switzerland's star Breel Embolo was blocked from boarding team flight to US</a>&nbsp;Kostyuk joins Elina Svitolina and Dayana Yastremska as only the third Ukrainian woman to reach a Grand Slam singles semifinal.Her success comes despite the ongoing impact of the war in Ukraine, which has affected her family, friends, and daily life since Russia’s invasion started in February 2022. Earlier in the tournament, Kostyuk described her opening-round victory as one of the toughest matches of her career and shared images showing damage near her family home in Kyiv following missile strikes.&nbsp;The emotional quarterfinal took place just one day after one of Russia’s largest attacks on Ukraine in recent months, adding further significance to the occasion. Kostyuk has consistently spoken out about the war and has maintained the stance shared by several Ukrainian players of not shaking hands with competitors from Russia and Belarus.&nbsp;Kostyuk enters the semifinals with a remarkable 17-match clay-court winning streak and remains focused on pursuing a historic title for Ukraine. When asked whether she would celebrate with another backflip, similar to her Madrid Open triumph over Andreeva last month, Kostyuk joked, “In Madrid I practised the day before the final.” She added, "I don't need to practise here. I did it a month ago, but I promised I would only do it again when I win a final."

Marta Kostyuk reaches the French Open 2025 semi-finals after defeating Elina Svitolina in a historic all-Ukrainian clash and dedicates her win to Ukraine amid the ongoing conflict

Marta Kostyuk produced a historic performance at the French Open, defeating fellow Ukrainian Elina Svitolina to become the first Ukrainian woman in the Open Era to reach the Roland Garros singles semifinals. The 23-year-old overcame seventh seed Svitolina 6-3, 2-6, 6-2 in the first Grand Slam quarterfinal contested between two Ukrainian women. The victory came amid continued turmoil in Ukraine, following a deadly missile and drone attack that claimed at least 18 lives across the country. After the match, an emotional Kostyuk dedicated her win to her homeland. Speaking on court following her 6-3, 2-6 and 6-2 win, Kostyuk said, “We had another difficult night in Ukraine, especially in Kyiv, where so many people died, so I want to give this match to Ukraine.” The crowd on Court Philippe Chatrier responded with a prolonged standing ovation as Kostyuk fought back tears. Former Wimbledon champion Marion Bartoli, conducting the on-court interview, embraced the Ukrainian star during the emotional moment. Kostyuk also praised her opponent and compatriot, acknowledging Svitolina’s influence on Ukrainian tennis. She said, “I want to point out Elina's incredible impact on tennis, Ukrainians, and me. She is incredible.” With the victory, Kostyuk became the first Ukrainian singles player to reach the French Open semifinals since Andrei Medvedev achieved the feat in 1999. She now advances to a highly anticipated semifinal against Russian teenager Mirra Andreeva for a place in the championship match. Also Read: FIFA World Cup 2026: Here's why Switzerland's star Breel Embolo was blocked from boarding team flight to US Kostyuk joins Elina Svitolina and Dayana Yastremska as only the third Ukrainian woman to reach a Grand Slam singles semifinal. Her success comes despite the ongoing impact of the war in Ukraine, which has affected her family, friends, and daily life since Russia’s invasion started in February 2022. Earlier in the tournament, Kostyuk described her opening-round victory as one of the toughest matches of her career and shared images showing damage near her family home in Kyiv following missile strikes. The emotional quarterfinal took place just one day after one of Russia’s largest attacks on Ukraine in recent months, adding further significance to the occasion. Kostyuk has consistently spoken out about the war and has maintained the stance shared by several Ukrainian players of not shaking hands with competitors from Russia and Belarus. Kostyuk enters the semifinals with a remarkable 17-match clay-court winning streak and remains focused on pursuing a historic title for Ukraine. When asked whether she would celebrate with another backflip, similar to her Madrid Open triumph over Andreeva last month, Kostyuk joked, “In Madrid I practised the day before the final.” She added, "I don't need to practise here. I did it a month ago, but I promised I would only do it again when I win a final."

Marta Kostyuk reached her first French Open semifinal, made Ukrainian tennis history, and dedicated her emotional victory to Ukraine

French Open 2026: Marta Kostyuk scripts history, dedicates victory to Ukraine amid ongoing conflict with Russia

Switzerland's World Cup preparations have been hit by an unexpected setback after star forward Breel Embolo was unable to travel to the United States with the rest of the national squad. The 29-year-old was scheduled to fly from Zurich to Los Angeles alongside his teammates, but a last-minute issue with his travel authorization prevented him from boarding.&nbsp;According to the Swiss Football Federation (ASF), Embolo's Electronic System for Travel Authorisation (ESTA) had initially been approved. However, officials were informed shortly before departure that the authorization had been placed under further review by US authorities.&nbsp;Also Read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/ind-w-vs-eng-w-3rd-t20i-harmanpreet-s-50-goes-in-vain-as-england-seal-series-2-1-after-capsey-and-knight-masterclass-1780450151980">IND-W vs ENG-W 3rd T20I: Harmanpreet's 50 goes in vain as England seal series 2-1 after Capsey and Knight masterclass</a>&nbsp;The federation said it is working closely with the relevant agencies and remains hopeful that the striker will be able to join the squad within the next 24 hours. No specific reason has been provided for the review, leaving questions over the delay just days before Switzerland begins its World Cup campaign. Embolo, who scored in Switzerland's recent 4-1 friendly victory over Jordan, is expected to play a key role for the national team at the tournament. His absence from the team's departure has added an unexpected layer of uncertainty as preparations enter their final stage.<h2>Who is Breel Embolo?</h2>Breel Embolo is a Swiss professional footballer who plays as a forward for Ligue 1 club Rennes and the Switzerland national team. Born in Cameroon, he is known for his strength, speed, and clinical finishing. Embolo has been an important player for Switzerland on the international stage, consistently contributing with his attacking prowess and versatility in the final third.&nbsp;Embolo made his senior debut for Switzerland in 2015 and has since earned more than 85 international caps. One of the most memorable moments of his international career came at the 2022 FIFA World Cup, where he scored the decisive goal in Switzerland’s 1–0 victory over his birth nation, Cameroon.

Switzerland striker Breel Embolo faces a last-minute travel setback after his US ESTA authorization was placed under review ahead of the World Cup

Switzerland's World Cup preparations have been hit by an unexpected setback after star forward Breel Embolo was unable to travel to the United States with the rest of the national squad. The 29-year-old was scheduled to fly from Zurich to Los Angeles alongside his teammates, but a last-minute issue with his travel authorization prevented him from boarding. According to the Swiss Football Federation (ASF), Embolo's Electronic System for Travel Authorisation (ESTA) had initially been approved. However, officials were informed shortly before departure that the authorization had been placed under further review by US authorities. Also Read: IND-W vs ENG-W 3rd T20I: Harmanpreet's 50 goes in vain as England seal series 2-1 after Capsey and Knight masterclass The federation said it is working closely with the relevant agencies and remains hopeful that the striker will be able to join the squad within the next 24 hours. No specific reason has been provided for the review, leaving questions over the delay just days before Switzerland begins its World Cup campaign. Embolo, who scored in Switzerland's recent 4-1 friendly victory over Jordan, is expected to play a key role for the national team at the tournament. His absence from the team's departure has added an unexpected layer of uncertainty as preparations enter their final stage. Who is Breel Embolo? Breel Embolo is a Swiss professional footballer who plays as a forward for Ligue 1 club Rennes and the Switzerland national team. Born in Cameroon, he is known for his strength, speed, and clinical finishing. Embolo has been an important player for Switzerland on the international stage, consistently contributing with his attacking prowess and versatility in the final third. Embolo made his senior debut for Switzerland in 2015 and has since earned more than 85 international caps. One of the most memorable moments of his international career came at the 2022 FIFA World Cup, where he scored the decisive goal in Switzerland’s 1–0 victory over his birth nation, Cameroon.

Breel Embolo’s World Cup travel plans hit a late snag after US authorities placed his previously approved ESTA under review

FIFA World Cup 2026: Here's why Switzerland's star Breel Embolo was blocked from boarding team flight to US

England Women completed a stunning chase to defeat India Women by six wickets in the third and final T20I at Taunton on Tuesday (June 2), sealing the three-match series 2-1. Asked to bat first, India Women posted a score of 180/5 in their 20 overs, thanks to a brilliant knock from captain Harmanpreet Kaur. The Indian skipper remained unbeaten on 56, anchoring the innings after useful contributions from Deepti Sharma (32) and Jemimah Rodrigues (29).&nbsp;India appeared on course for an even bigger total, but England's bowlers staged a strong comeback in the final overs. Lauren Bell was the standout performer with figures of 2/36, while Charlotte Dean and Linsey Smith chipped in with a wicket each. England's chase got off to a shaky start as India struck early to leave the hosts reeling at 38/3. However, Alice Capsey and Heather Knight turned the game on its head with a magnificent fourth-wicket partnership.&nbsp;Also Read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/the-15-year-old-who-broke-ipl-what-vaibhav-sooryavanshi-defining-season-means-for-indian-cricket-1780422992640">'The 15-year-old who broke IPL' - What Sooryavanshi's defining season means for Indian Cricket</a>&nbsp;Capsey led the counterattack with an explosive 82, taking the pressure off England and shifting the momentum firmly in the hosts' favour. At the other end, Knight played the perfect supporting role before accelerating to an unbeaten 70, ensuring England stayed ahead of the required rate. The pair added a match-winning 137 runs, punishing both pace and spin while denying India any opportunity to regain control.&nbsp;England comfortably chased down 181 in just 18.3 overs to secure victory and win the series 2-1. While Harmanpreet's unbeaten half-century and India's batting performance offered encouraging signs, the visitors were unable to find a breakthrough during Capsey and Knight's dominant stand. Capsey's match-winning innings earned widespread acclaim and gave England valuable momentum ahead of the upcoming ICC Women's T20 World Cup.

England Women beat India Women by six wickets in the 3rd T20I at Taunton, thanks to Alice Capsey's 82 and Heather Knight's unbeaten 70, winning the series 2-1

England Women completed a stunning chase to defeat India Women by six wickets in the third and final T20I at Taunton on Tuesday (June 2), sealing the three-match series 2-1. Asked to bat first, India Women posted a score of 180/5 in their 20 overs, thanks to a brilliant knock from captain Harmanpreet Kaur. The Indian skipper remained unbeaten on 56, anchoring the innings after useful contributions from Deepti Sharma (32) and Jemimah Rodrigues (29). India appeared on course for an even bigger total, but England's bowlers staged a strong comeback in the final overs. Lauren Bell was the standout performer with figures of 2/36, while Charlotte Dean and Linsey Smith chipped in with a wicket each. England's chase got off to a shaky start as India struck early to leave the hosts reeling at 38/3. However, Alice Capsey and Heather Knight turned the game on its head with a magnificent fourth-wicket partnership. Also Read: 'The 15-year-old who broke IPL' - What Sooryavanshi's defining season means for Indian Cricket Capsey led the counterattack with an explosive 82, taking the pressure off England and shifting the momentum firmly in the hosts' favour. At the other end, Knight played the perfect supporting role before accelerating to an unbeaten 70, ensuring England stayed ahead of the required rate. The pair added a match-winning 137 runs, punishing both pace and spin while denying India any opportunity to regain control. England comfortably chased down 181 in just 18.3 overs to secure victory and win the series 2-1. While Harmanpreet's unbeaten half-century and India's batting performance offered encouraging signs, the visitors were unable to find a breakthrough during Capsey and Knight's dominant stand. Capsey's match-winning innings earned widespread acclaim and gave England valuable momentum ahead of the upcoming ICC Women's T20 World Cup.

England Women chased 181 to beat India by six wickets in the third T20I, with Alice Capsey and Heather Knight sealing a 2-1 series win for the hosts

IND-W vs ENG-W 3rd T20I: Harmanpreet's 50 goes in vain as England seal series 2-1 after Capsey and Knight masterclass

Vaibhav Sooryavanshi is all over the cricket world and the internet. He is just 15 and has already defined the T20 template, enabling new ways to break records, score runs and hit sixes fearlessly. Playing only his second IPL season, the Rajasthan Royals opener, who is also an Under-19 ODI World Cup winner, swept away five records, creating history. His runs, sixes tally and strike rate earned him accolades that no one has collected in one season combined. He is clearly earmarked for international success and will soon realise his dream of playing for India, but what does this mean for him and the country? Let's explore.<h2>Records, rewards and much more</h2>Sooryavanshi broke a handful of IPL records in the just-concluded edition. Barring scoring the most runs for an uncapped player in an IPL season, the left-handed opener broke Chris Gayle’s tally of 59 sixes in one edition, which he smashed in 2012. Vaibhav comfortably passed that tally, clobbering 72 sixes in IPL 2026 – a record. &nbsp;Besides, Vaibhav also weaponised the first six overs like no batter has before him, scoring an astonishing 521 runs within the Powerplay phase, striking at a touching 233. His impact at the start kept him ahead of the modern-day SRH enforcers, Abhishek Sharma and Travis Head.&nbsp;Also read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/virat-kohli-has-mastered-the-art-of-t20-batting-sanjay-manjrekar-lauds-rcb-star-for-his-ipl-2026-final-heroics-1780412086556">‘He has mastered the art of T20 batting’: Manjrekar lauds Kohli after his IPL 2026 final heroics</a> &nbsp;He has a lot more to him than just acing the art of T20 hitting, including hitting express pace with utter ease, maximising results on most occasions. During the Eliminator against Hyderabad in New Chandigarh, Sooryavanshi scored 97 off just 29 balls, hitting 12 sixes, including three in an over thrice. The look on Pat Cummins’ face and his comments after the match told the entire story.&nbsp; &nbsp;“He played pretty well. Just don't feel like you have too many options,” Cummins said on Vaibhav’s skyrocketing inning.<h3>What does the future hold for Sooryavanshi?</h3>Sooryavanshi’s rise has opened doors for budding cricketers to dream big and chase them, realising that if Vaibhav could, they can too. &nbsp;It’s not long before the batting sensation shall be fast-tracked into the senior men’s team, with plenty of T20 series lined up this year. While he will be away for the tri-nation T20 series in Sri Lanka next, representing India-A, the BCCI selectors could look at him as a potential pick for the away UK tour next. Considering the A-listers could be back for the five-match T20I series against England, starting July 1, Vaibhav could find a place for the Ireland T20Is. &nbsp;ODIs and Tests are a distant dream for now, but you never know.&nbsp; &nbsp;Could he break into India’s T20I first team in the meantime? Maybe, or maybe it’s early, but there are no questions about his talent.&nbsp;

At just 15, Rajasthan Royals opener Vaibhav Sooryavanshi has completely rewritten T20 history in IPL 2026. Discover how he shattered Chris Gayle's ultimate record.

Vaibhav Sooryavanshi is all over the cricket world and the internet. He is just 15 and has already defined the T20 template, enabling new ways to break records, score runs and hit sixes fearlessly. Playing only his second IPL season, the Rajasthan Royals opener, who is also an Under-19 ODI World Cup winner, swept away five records, creating history. His runs, sixes tally and strike rate earned him accolades that no one has collected in one season combined. He is clearly earmarked for international success and will soon realise his dream of playing for India, but what does this mean for him and the country? Let's explore. Records, rewards and much more Sooryavanshi broke a handful of IPL records in the just-concluded edition. Barring scoring the most runs for an uncapped player in an IPL season, the left-handed opener broke Chris Gayle’s tally of 59 sixes in one edition, which he smashed in 2012. Vaibhav comfortably passed that tally, clobbering 72 sixes in IPL 2026 – a record. Besides, Vaibhav also weaponised the first six overs like no batter has before him, scoring an astonishing 521 runs within the Powerplay phase, striking at a touching 233. His impact at the start kept him ahead of the modern-day SRH enforcers, Abhishek Sharma and Travis Head. Also read | ‘He has mastered the art of T20 batting’: Manjrekar lauds Kohli after his IPL 2026 final heroics He has a lot more to him than just acing the art of T20 hitting, including hitting express pace with utter ease, maximising results on most occasions. During the Eliminator against Hyderabad in New Chandigarh, Sooryavanshi scored 97 off just 29 balls, hitting 12 sixes, including three in an over thrice. The look on Pat Cummins’ face and his comments after the match told the entire story. “He played pretty well. Just don't feel like you have too many options,” Cummins said on Vaibhav’s skyrocketing inning. What does the future hold for Sooryavanshi? Sooryavanshi’s rise has opened doors for budding cricketers to dream big and chase them, realising that if Vaibhav could, they can too. It’s not long before the batting sensation shall be fast-tracked into the senior men’s team, with plenty of T20 series lined up this year. While he will be away for the tri-nation T20 series in Sri Lanka next, representing India-A, the BCCI selectors could look at him as a potential pick for the away UK tour next. Considering the A-listers could be back for the five-match T20I series against England, starting July 1, Vaibhav could find a place for the Ireland T20Is. ODIs and Tests are a distant dream for now, but you never know. Could he break into India’s T20I first team in the meantime? Maybe, or maybe it’s early, but there are no questions about his talent.

At just 15, Rajasthan Royals opener Vaibhav Sooryavanshi has completely rewritten T20 history in IPL 2026. Discover how he shattered Chris Gayle's ultimate record.

'The 15-year-old who broke IPL' - What Sooryavanshi's defining season means for Indian Cricket

The hosts, England, have named two uncapped players in their final XII for the summer’s opening Test against New Zealand at Lord’s in London. Opener Emilio Gay and pacer Sonny Baker have been picked for the series opener, while Ollie Robinson returned for the first time in over two years. Captain Ben Stokes is also back leading the team for the first time since the Ashes debacle, with veteran batter Joe Root ready to take centre stage. On the other hand, another of the Fab Four, Kane Williamson, is set for his last dance at the Home of Cricket.&nbsp;Check England XII for the Lord’s Test – &nbsp;Ben Stokes (captain), Gus Atkinson, Sonny Baker, Shoaib Bashir, Jacob Bethell, Harry Brook, Ben Duckett, Emilio Gay, Ollie Robinson, Joe Root, Jamie Smith (wk), Josh Tongue &nbsp;With no Zak Crawley at the top following a shallow away Ashes, England roped in Durham batter Gay to open alongside Ben Duckett, with Baker also potentially earning his maiden Test call-up.&nbsp;&nbsp;Also read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/sairaj-bahutule-joins-india-support-staff-as-spin-bowling-coach-for-afghanistan-series-ind-vs-afg-one-off-test-new-chandigarh-june-6-1780403299248">Remember Sairaj Bahutule? PBKS spin coach joins India support staff for Afghanistan series</a> &nbsp;Praising the speedster, England head coach Brendon McCullum said, "Sonny Baker is quick. I think he's going to be a cricketer the country really gets behind when he does play. He charges in, and he leaves everything out there. He's full noise. He's exciting. He swings the ball both ways, and he's obviously got the ability to touch 90mph. He's an exciting proposition, and his time, if it's not in this Test, his time will come. If it is in this Test, I'd expect him to do a good job." &nbsp;With no Jofra Archer available for selection due to IPL commitments and Brydon Carse out with a finger injury, England brought back Robinson to lead the pace attack at Lord’s. Without revealing his final XI, McCullum commented on how the weather could determine the side that walks out for the first Test. &nbsp;"There is a little bit of jeopardy around the conditions and the forecast over the next 48 hours," McCullum said ahead of the Lord’s Test starting Thursday (June 4). “We have a strong understanding of what we think will be our XI, but we do want to have the ability to pivot if required, if the conditions turn out to be slightly different to what we anticipate.”<h3>Kane’s ‘last dance’ at Lord’s</h3>At 35, Kane Williamson might not play another Test at the Home of Cricket after this one and realising this, he said, "It's always a special Test. I think if you look over your career, you only get...well depends on how long you play for... but yeah, I've played for a while, and you only get a handful of opportunities to come to Lords and play. &nbsp;"I think the way they maintain the tradition is quite special. It's unique to Lords; the history that surrounds it, the effort that goes into it, to all of that- you come here and you, you notice those differences to all other grounds,” he continued.&nbsp;

A new era meets a historic farewell at Lord's. England name uncapped starlets Emilio Gay and Sonny Baker in their final XII, while Kane Williamson prepares for his ultimate 'last dance.'

The hosts, England, have named two uncapped players in their final XII for the summer’s opening Test against New Zealand at Lord’s in London. Opener Emilio Gay and pacer Sonny Baker have been picked for the series opener, while Ollie Robinson returned for the first time in over two years. Captain Ben Stokes is also back leading the team for the first time since the Ashes debacle, with veteran batter Joe Root ready to take centre stage. On the other hand, another of the Fab Four, Kane Williamson, is set for his last dance at the Home of Cricket. Check England XII for the Lord’s Test – Ben Stokes (captain), Gus Atkinson, Sonny Baker, Shoaib Bashir, Jacob Bethell, Harry Brook, Ben Duckett, Emilio Gay, Ollie Robinson, Joe Root, Jamie Smith (wk), Josh Tongue With no Zak Crawley at the top following a shallow away Ashes, England roped in Durham batter Gay to open alongside Ben Duckett, with Baker also potentially earning his maiden Test call-up. Also read | Remember Sairaj Bahutule? PBKS spin coach joins India support staff for Afghanistan series Praising the speedster, England head coach Brendon McCullum said, "Sonny Baker is quick. I think he's going to be a cricketer the country really gets behind when he does play. He charges in, and he leaves everything out there. He's full noise. He's exciting. He swings the ball both ways, and he's obviously got the ability to touch 90mph. He's an exciting proposition, and his time, if it's not in this Test, his time will come. If it is in this Test, I'd expect him to do a good job." With no Jofra Archer available for selection due to IPL commitments and Brydon Carse out with a finger injury, England brought back Robinson to lead the pace attack at Lord’s. Without revealing his final XI, McCullum commented on how the weather could determine the side that walks out for the first Test. "There is a little bit of jeopardy around the conditions and the forecast over the next 48 hours," McCullum said ahead of the Lord’s Test starting Thursday (June 4). “We have a strong understanding of what we think will be our XI, but we do want to have the ability to pivot if required, if the conditions turn out to be slightly different to what we anticipate.” Kane’s ‘last dance’ at Lord’s At 35, Kane Williamson might not play another Test at the Home of Cricket after this one and realising this, he said, "It's always a special Test. I think if you look over your career, you only get...well depends on how long you play for... but yeah, I've played for a while, and you only get a handful of opportunities to come to Lords and play. "I think the way they maintain the tradition is quite special. It's unique to Lords; the history that surrounds it, the effort that goes into it, to all of that- you come here and you, you notice those differences to all other grounds,” he continued.

A new era meets a historic farewell at Lord's. England name uncapped starlets Emilio Gay and Sonny Baker in their final XII, while Kane Williamson prepares for his ultimate 'last dance.'

ENG vs NZ 1st Test: England name uncapped Gay, Baker in final XII; Williamson set for Lord’s ‘last dance’

Melbourne’s two Big Bash League teams, the Melbourne Stars and Melbourne Renegades, are reportedly set for a major change ahead of the upcoming season. According to SEN Cricket, the two clubs are expected to be brought together under a single operational structure managed by Cricket Victoria. Staff members were reportedly informed of the proposed development on Tuesday (Jun 2).&nbsp;The new team would keep the Melbourne name instead of Victoria, as per BBL rules and would likely continue to play home matches at the MCG and could potentially wear Victoria’s traditional navy-blue colours.&nbsp;Meanwhile, a previous report by Code Sports said “Bushrangers” is one of the names being considered for the new merged team. Although Cricket Victoria runs both Melbourne BBL sides, reports suggest it still plans to sell its second licene, which is likely to be bought by IPL-linked investors and rebranded.&nbsp;Also Read - <a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/who-is-tahsin-mohammed-19-year-old-indian-teen-with-kerala-roots-named-in-qatar-fifa-world-cup-squad-1780415799928">Who is Tahsin Mohammed? Indian teen with Kerala roots named in Qatar World Cup squad</a>&nbsp;Earlier reports had indicated that the Renegades were the most likely club to be sold and under those plans, the franchise would have split its home fixtures across multiple venues, including the MCG, GMHBA Stadium, Junction Oval and even Chennai in India.&nbsp;Also Read - <a href="‘He has mastered the art of T20 batting’: Manjrekar on Kohli's IPL final heroics">‘He has mastered the art of T20 batting’: Manjrekar lauds Kohli after his IPL 2026 final heroics</a>&nbsp;The reports further indicate that the Stars and Renegades playing squads will remain separate for now, with the changes focused primarily on administration rather than on-field operations.&nbsp;The development comes after Cricket Australia’s efforts to introduce private ownership into the BBL from the 2027-28 season were put on hold in April following resistance from the cricket associations of Queensland and New South Wales.

In a major development for the Big Bash League, Melbourne Stars and Melbourne Renegades are reportedly set to merge into a single franchise, marking a significant shake-up in Australian T20 cricket.

Melbourne’s two Big Bash League teams, the Melbourne Stars and Melbourne Renegades, are reportedly set for a major change ahead of the upcoming season. According to SEN Cricket, the two clubs are expected to be brought together under a single operational structure managed by Cricket Victoria. Staff members were reportedly informed of the proposed development on Tuesday (Jun 2). The new team would keep the Melbourne name instead of Victoria, as per BBL rules and would likely continue to play home matches at the MCG and could potentially wear Victoria’s traditional navy-blue colours. Meanwhile, a previous report by Code Sports said “Bushrangers” is one of the names being considered for the new merged team. Although Cricket Victoria runs both Melbourne BBL sides, reports suggest it still plans to sell its second licene, which is likely to be bought by IPL-linked investors and rebranded. Also Read - Who is Tahsin Mohammed? Indian teen with Kerala roots named in Qatar World Cup squad Earlier reports had indicated that the Renegades were the most likely club to be sold and under those plans, the franchise would have split its home fixtures across multiple venues, including the MCG, GMHBA Stadium, Junction Oval and even Chennai in India. Also Read - ‘He has mastered the art of T20 batting’: Manjrekar lauds Kohli after his IPL 2026 final heroics The reports further indicate that the Stars and Renegades playing squads will remain separate for now, with the changes focused primarily on administration rather than on-field operations. The development comes after Cricket Australia’s efforts to introduce private ownership into the BBL from the 2027-28 season were put on hold in April following resistance from the cricket associations of Queensland and New South Wales.

In a major development for the Big Bash League, Melbourne Stars and Melbourne Renegades are reportedly set to merge into a single franchise, marking a significant shake-up in Australian T20 cricket.

Melbourne Stars, Renegades set for merger in major Big Bash League shake-up

Tahsin Mohammed will play for Qatar at the forthcoming FIFA World Cup 2026 in North America, starting June 11. Born to Indian parents from the southern state of Kerala, Tahsin will be the second Indian-origin footballer at this year’s edition after New Zealand midfielder Sarpreet Singh.&nbsp;For generations, Kerala has been India’s football powerhouse, with the sport being worshipped just like it is in the ‘City of Joy’, Kolkata. Considering its massive support for the local clubs, Kerala’s love for football goes beyond boundaries, with the state divided into two when South American giants Brazil and Argentina face off at any level. This time, with the 48-team-tournament beginning in less than 10 days, the Kerala fans will continue to prove their loyalty to the two participating teams, but also will cheer for Qatar for a 19-year-old Tahsin.

Qatar coach Julen Lopetegui named the 26-man World Cup squad on Tuesday (June 2), picking the left winger Tahsin Mohammed.

<blockquote class="twitter-tweet">For the badge. For the flag. For Qatar. The official squad for the FIFA World Cup 2026™ has been announced.🌟<a href="https://x.com/hashtag/AlAnnabi?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#AlAnnabi</a><a href="https://x.com/hashtag/AllForQatar?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#AllForQatar</a> 🇶🇦<a href="https://x.com/hashtag/FIFAWorldCup?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#FIFAWorldCup</a> 🏆 <a href="https://t.co/N21sJPSzxp">pic.twitter.com/N21sJPSzxp</a>&mdash; Qatar Football Association (@QFA_EN) <a href="https://x.com/QFA_EN/status/2061519863403741405?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">June 1, 2026</a></blockquote> <script async src="https://platform.x.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script>

<h3>Who is he?</h3>Born to father Jamshid, a former Calicut University footballer from Thalassery and his mother Shaima, from Valapattanam in Kannur, Mohammed learned the nuances of football at the Aspire Academy, regarded as one of the best Asian facilities in nurturing elite talent. Meanwhile, his impressive skills earned Tahsin opportunities with Al-Duhail in the Qatar Stars League.&nbsp; &nbsp;Soon after, when he was 17, the forward became the first player with Indian roots to play in the league.&nbsp;&nbsp;Also read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/still-awaiting-us-visas-iran-fifa-world-cup-2026-squad-to-leave-for-mexico-via-spain-us-israel-middle-east-war-1780405528302">Still awaiting US visas, Iran World Cup squad to leave for Mexico via Spain</a> &nbsp;After impressing at Qatar’s age-group teams, Tahsin broke into the national side and later got picked to play in his maiden FIFA World Cup, co-hosted by the US, Canada and Mexico. &nbsp;&nbsp;The last edition’s hosts, Qatar, are placed in Group B, alongside Canada, Switzerland and Bosnia and Herzegovina. Qatar will play its opener against the Swiss on June 14, before taking on Canada (June 19) and Bosnia and Herzegovina six days later on June 25.<h3>Qatar FIFA World Cup Squad –</h3>Goalkeepers: Salah ⁠Zakaria, Mahmoud Abunada, Meshaal Barsham &nbsp;Defenders: Hashmi Hussein, Ayoub Alawi, Boualem ⁠Khoukhi, Pedro Miguel, Issa Laaye, Lucas Mendes, Sultan Al-Brake, Homam Al-Amin &nbsp;Midfielders: Mohammed Al-Manai, Jassem Jaber, Karim ‌Boudiaf, Ahmed Fathi, Abdulaziz Hatem, Assim Madibo &nbsp;Forwards: Tahseen Mohammed, Edmilson Junior, Almoez Ali, Akram Afif, Mohammed Muntari, ​Yousef Abdulrazzaq, Ahmed Alaa, Hassan Al-Haydos, Ahmed Al-Janahi

Who is Tahsin Mohammed? Meet the 19-year-old winger with deep Kerala roots who just made history by being named in Qatar’s FIFA World Cup 2026 squad.

Tahsin Mohammed will play for Qatar at the forthcoming FIFA World Cup 2026 in North America, starting June 11. Born to Indian parents from the southern state of Kerala, Tahsin will be the second Indian-origin footballer at this year’s edition after New Zealand midfielder Sarpreet Singh. For generations, Kerala has been India’s football powerhouse, with the sport being worshipped just like it is in the ‘City of Joy’, Kolkata. Considering its massive support for the local clubs, Kerala’s love for football goes beyond boundaries, with the state divided into two when South American giants Brazil and Argentina face off at any level. This time, with the 48-team-tournament beginning in less than 10 days, the Kerala fans will continue to prove their loyalty to the two participating teams, but also will cheer for Qatar for a 19-year-old Tahsin.

Who is Tahsin Mohammed? Meet the 19-year-old winger with deep Kerala roots who just made history by being named in Qatar’s FIFA World Cup 2026 squad.

Who is Tahsin Mohammed? Indian teen with Kerala roots named in Qatar World Cup squad

After 18 IPL seasons and two titles, back-to-back, batting giant Virat Kohli has mastered the art of T20 batting, says cricketer-turned-broadcaster Sanjay Manjrekar. Kohli, the RCB icon, was the hero with the bat on the night of the IPL 2026 final in Ahmedabad, hitting an unbeaten 75 to complete the run chase (against the Gujarat Titans) and help his team successfully defend its IPL crown. With 675 runs this season, Kohli became the only player ever to breach the 600-run mark in four straight editions, creating history. However, his longtime sceptic, Sanjay, praised Virat for his heroics.&nbsp;Virat has won countless T20 matches for India and his IPL franchise over the years, proving how well he has met the demands of the modern-day T20 game. Often called out for his strike rate, Virat bettered it from the last season, scoring at over 165 in IPL 2026, and Manjrekar is absolutely delighted with this improvement in his batting.&nbsp;Also read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/what-a-player-and-what-a-knock-virat-kohli-gets-special-praise-from-this-england-footballer-after-rcb-s-back-to-back-ipl-titles-1780380131610">'What a player and what a knock': Virat Kohli gets special praise from THIS England footballer after RCB's back-to-back IPL titles</a>&nbsp;Also, unlike previously, when Kohli used to take his time before opening his arms, as it’s his usual game, the batting king now begins in the third and fourth gear, cashing in on the chances inside the Powerplay, something that impressed Manjrekar the most. Taking to his Instagram channel, Sanjay lauded Kohli, saying,&nbsp;“At this stage, watching him in this tournament, he has mastered the art of T20 batting that is needed in IPL cricket. Which means now he knows that he has to score at a 150 to 160 strike rate. So he cashes in the first six overs. The most important thing is that he has found this power game, which is just about optimum. It’s almost like he is in third and fourth gear, while the others are trying to hit at a strike rate of 200 and 230.&nbsp;“Because of that, there are mishits, and they have to be lucky with someone dropping a catch, and then their innings flourish. Virat Kohli has ensured that there aren’t any mishits because he’s just hitting the ball long enough to go over the boundary, thereby ensuring his technique and balance are right. The bottom hand jab comes into play,” he added.<h3>Precision of placing fours over volatile sixes</h3>Regardless of how quickly T20 cricket is evolving and upcoming youngsters love smashing all balls over the boundary line, Kohli enjoys scoring his boundaries, as he does in international cricket. Carefully mending his T20 game to tick the modern-day parameters, Kohli hasn’t lost touch with scoring fours at will.&nbsp;“When hitting boundaries, Kohli is still big on fours rather than sixes as he does in white-ball international cricket. Having mastered the art of T20 batting, I don’t see it quickly fading away from Kohli. He will keep working on his fitness, and he has found this template to be consistent and to go with the modern times of strike rate. This form of Virat Kohli will be there for a while, and thereby, RCB will be very fortunate and, in a way, very deserving as well,” Manjrekar observed.&nbsp;Meanwhile, Kohli’s next outing will be against Afghanistan during the three-match ODI series starting June 14.

After RCB's historic IPL 2026 title defence, longtime sceptic Sanjay Manjrekar admits Virat Kohli has completely mastered the modern template of T20 batting.

After 18 IPL seasons and two titles, back-to-back, batting giant Virat Kohli has mastered the art of T20 batting, says cricketer-turned-broadcaster Sanjay Manjrekar. Kohli, the RCB icon, was the hero with the bat on the night of the IPL 2026 final in Ahmedabad, hitting an unbeaten 75 to complete the run chase (against the Gujarat Titans) and help his team successfully defend its IPL crown. With 675 runs this season, Kohli became the only player ever to breach the 600-run mark in four straight editions, creating history. However, his longtime sceptic, Sanjay, praised Virat for his heroics. Virat has won countless T20 matches for India and his IPL franchise over the years, proving how well he has met the demands of the modern-day T20 game. Often called out for his strike rate, Virat bettered it from the last season, scoring at over 165 in IPL 2026, and Manjrekar is absolutely delighted with this improvement in his batting. Also read | 'What a player and what a knock': Virat Kohli gets special praise from THIS England footballer after RCB's back-to-back IPL titles Also, unlike previously, when Kohli used to take his time before opening his arms, as it’s his usual game, the batting king now begins in the third and fourth gear, cashing in on the chances inside the Powerplay, something that impressed Manjrekar the most. Taking to his Instagram channel, Sanjay lauded Kohli, saying, “At this stage, watching him in this tournament, he has mastered the art of T20 batting that is needed in IPL cricket. Which means now he knows that he has to score at a 150 to 160 strike rate. So he cashes in the first six overs. The most important thing is that he has found this power game, which is just about optimum. It’s almost like he is in third and fourth gear, while the others are trying to hit at a strike rate of 200 and 230. “Because of that, there are mishits, and they have to be lucky with someone dropping a catch, and then their innings flourish. Virat Kohli has ensured that there aren’t any mishits because he’s just hitting the ball long enough to go over the boundary, thereby ensuring his technique and balance are right. The bottom hand jab comes into play,” he added. Precision of placing fours over volatile sixes Regardless of how quickly T20 cricket is evolving and upcoming youngsters love smashing all balls over the boundary line, Kohli enjoys scoring his boundaries, as he does in international cricket. Carefully mending his T20 game to tick the modern-day parameters, Kohli hasn’t lost touch with scoring fours at will. “When hitting boundaries, Kohli is still big on fours rather than sixes as he does in white-ball international cricket. Having mastered the art of T20 batting, I don’t see it quickly fading away from Kohli. He will keep working on his fitness, and he has found this template to be consistent and to go with the modern times of strike rate. This form of Virat Kohli will be there for a while, and thereby, RCB will be very fortunate and, in a way, very deserving as well,” Manjrekar observed. Meanwhile, Kohli’s next outing will be against Afghanistan during the three-match ODI series starting June 14.

After RCB's historic IPL 2026 title defence, longtime sceptic Sanjay Manjrekar admits Virat Kohli has completely mastered the modern template of T20 batting.

‘He has mastered the art of T20 batting’: Manjrekar lauds Kohli after his IPL 2026 final heroics

Zee Entertainment Enterprises Ltd. (‘Z’), the leading content and technology powerhouse, launched its new live sports TV channels under the brand name (Unite8 Sports) after getting approval from the Ministry of Information &amp; Broadcasting.&nbsp;Starting Tuesday (Jun 2), the four sports channels - Unite8 Sports 1, Unite8 Sports 1 HD, Unite8 Sports 2, Unite8 Sports 2 HD are available across 500+ leading cable and distribution platforms; those platforms include Dish TV, Tata Play, Airtel, Sun Direct, Siti Networks, Indian Cable Net Company Ltd., Hinduja Global, Fastway, Andhra Pradesh State FiberNet Ltd., Kerala Communicators Cable Ltd., Thamizhaga Cable TV Communications, V K Digital, UCN Cable Network, Take One, Sri Sai Cable, Kal Cable, Digiana, Bhimavaram and Axom among others. It presents the best of sporting action across football, cricket, kabaddi, badminton, wrestling, boxing, combat sports and much more.&nbsp; &nbsp;The newly launched channel, Unite8 Sports, aims to bring diverse sporting experiences under one unified platform for the Indian audience.&nbsp; &nbsp;Speaking on the new sports channels, Bavesh Janavlekar, Chief Business Officer – Unite8 Sports, Zee Entertainment Enterprises Ltd., said, “With Unite8 Sports, we have built a curated, multi-sport offering that reflects the evolving preferences of Indian audiences and creates a scalable platform that can match the increasing demand for high-quality, accessible live sports action across the country.&nbsp; &nbsp;“Our focus is on ensuring seamless access for viewers, supported by strong partnerships across the distribution ecosystem. We are geared up to present the upcoming FIFA events across our channels, and we remain well-positioned to deliver a compelling viewing experience to fans across the Nation.” &nbsp;With Unite8 Sports bringing people together through the power of sports, the newly launched channel is now the only place on TV to watch the FIFA World Cup 2026 in India, starting June 11 in North America (US, Canada and Mexico).

Zee Entertainment has officially launched four Unite8 Sports TV channels across Tata Play, Airtel, and 500+ platforms. Find out how to watch the FIFA World Cup 2026 live.

Zee Entertainment Enterprises Ltd. (‘Z’), the leading content and technology powerhouse, launched its new live sports TV channels under the brand name (Unite8 Sports) after getting approval from the Ministry of Information & Broadcasting. Starting Tuesday (Jun 2), the four sports channels - Unite8 Sports 1, Unite8 Sports 1 HD, Unite8 Sports 2, Unite8 Sports 2 HD are available across 500+ leading cable and distribution platforms; those platforms include Dish TV, Tata Play, Airtel, Sun Direct, Siti Networks, Indian Cable Net Company Ltd., Hinduja Global, Fastway, Andhra Pradesh State FiberNet Ltd., Kerala Communicators Cable Ltd., Thamizhaga Cable TV Communications, V K Digital, UCN Cable Network, Take One, Sri Sai Cable, Kal Cable, Digiana, Bhimavaram and Axom among others. It presents the best of sporting action across football, cricket, kabaddi, badminton, wrestling, boxing, combat sports and much more. The newly launched channel, Unite8 Sports, aims to bring diverse sporting experiences under one unified platform for the Indian audience. Speaking on the new sports channels, Bavesh Janavlekar, Chief Business Officer – Unite8 Sports, Zee Entertainment Enterprises Ltd., said, “With Unite8 Sports, we have built a curated, multi-sport offering that reflects the evolving preferences of Indian audiences and creates a scalable platform that can match the increasing demand for high-quality, accessible live sports action across the country. “Our focus is on ensuring seamless access for viewers, supported by strong partnerships across the distribution ecosystem. We are geared up to present the upcoming FIFA events across our channels, and we remain well-positioned to deliver a compelling viewing experience to fans across the Nation.” With Unite8 Sports bringing people together through the power of sports, the newly launched channel is now the only place on TV to watch the FIFA World Cup 2026 in India, starting June 11 in North America (US, Canada and Mexico).

Zee Entertainment has officially launched four Unite8 Sports TV channels across Tata Play, Airtel, and 500+ platforms. Find out how to watch the FIFA World Cup 2026 live.

Zee Unite8 Sports Channels go live as wait for FIFA World Cup broadcast in India ends

Here's a look at the five players who could be released by their franchises after disappointing campaigns in IPL 2026.

Here's a look at the five players who could be released by their franchises after disappointing campaigns in IPL 2026.

IPL 2026: 5 players who could be released after disappointing campaigns

Iran’s football team for the forthcoming FIFA World Cup 2026, co-hosted by the US, Canada and Mexico, will depart for Spain en route to Mexico despite awaiting visas, the head of the country’s football federation, Mehdi Taj, said. Neither America, where Iran is scheduled to play their three league matches, nor Mexico, where the team will be based throughout the tournament, have issued visas for the players.&nbsp;"We will leave for Spain on Saturday, and from there the team will go directly to Tijuana in Mexico," Iran’s Football Federation Chief Mehdi Taj said on Monday on a sports programme broadcast on state television. "We will obtain a Mexican visa tomorrow (Tuesday) or the day after, and then a US visa will be issued quickly," Taj said.&nbsp;Also read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/fifa-world-cup-2026-official-ball-trionda-features-technology-and-design-explained-all-you-need-to-know-about-it-1780373041253">FIFA World Cup 2026 official ball 'Trionda': Features, technology and design explained. All you need to know about it</a> &nbsp;Iran is placed in Group G alongside New Zealand, Belgium and Egypt. While they play their tournament opener against the Kiwis in Los Angeles on June 15, the same venue that hosts their next league game against Belgium six days later, Iran will wrap up their league stage with the final match against Egypt in Seattle on June 26. &nbsp;Taj said the outbreak of the Middle East war, which began on February 28 when the US and Israel launched joint attacks on the country, ‘changed everything’ for Team Melli. &nbsp;"The situation in the country, and especially the war, has upended all our plans," Taj said. "We had arranged good warm-up matches, including one against Spain, which was cancelled" in February. &nbsp;Meanwhile, the Iranians have relocated their World Cup base, which initially was planned to be in Tucson in the US state of Arizona, to the northwestern Mexican border city of Tijuana due to tensions over the Middle East war. &nbsp;Iran is currently preparing for the tournament in Turkey. &nbsp;On Friday, they beat Gambia 3-1 in a friendly in Antalya, where they will play another warm-up match against Mali on Thursday.&nbsp;(With inputs from AFP)

Despite pending US and Mexican visas, Iran's World Cup squad is departing for Spain en route to Tijuana after war tensions forced a massive camp relocation.

Iran’s football team for the forthcoming FIFA World Cup 2026, co-hosted by the US, Canada and Mexico, will depart for Spain en route to Mexico despite awaiting visas, the head of the country’s football federation, Mehdi Taj, said. Neither America, where Iran is scheduled to play their three league matches, nor Mexico, where the team will be based throughout the tournament, have issued visas for the players. "We will leave for Spain on Saturday, and from there the team will go directly to Tijuana in Mexico," Iran’s Football Federation Chief Mehdi Taj said on Monday on a sports programme broadcast on state television. "We will obtain a Mexican visa tomorrow (Tuesday) or the day after, and then a US visa will be issued quickly," Taj said. Also read | FIFA World Cup 2026 official ball 'Trionda': Features, technology and design explained. All you need to know about it Iran is placed in Group G alongside New Zealand, Belgium and Egypt. While they play their tournament opener against the Kiwis in Los Angeles on June 15, the same venue that hosts their next league game against Belgium six days later, Iran will wrap up their league stage with the final match against Egypt in Seattle on June 26. Taj said the outbreak of the Middle East war, which began on February 28 when the US and Israel launched joint attacks on the country, ‘changed everything’ for Team Melli. "The situation in the country, and especially the war, has upended all our plans," Taj said. "We had arranged good warm-up matches, including one against Spain, which was cancelled" in February. Meanwhile, the Iranians have relocated their World Cup base, which initially was planned to be in Tucson in the US state of Arizona, to the northwestern Mexican border city of Tijuana due to tensions over the Middle East war. Iran is currently preparing for the tournament in Turkey. On Friday, they beat Gambia 3-1 in a friendly in Antalya, where they will play another warm-up match against Mali on Thursday. (With inputs from AFP)

Despite pending US and Mexican visas, Iran's World Cup squad is departing for Spain en route to Tijuana after war tensions forced a massive camp relocation.

Still awaiting US visas, Iran World Cup squad to leave for Mexico via Spain

Sairaj Bahutule, the former Indian leg-spinner and a domestic giant with over 600 wickets in First-Class cricket, will join Team India’s backroom staff as their spin-bowling coach for the one-off Test against Afghanistan. The 53-year-old Punjab Kings spin coach will also work with the spinners in white-ball cricket.&nbsp;Bahutule’s coaching experience should come in handy for the Indian spinners across formats. While his latest stint was with PBKS during the just-concluded IPL 2026, where his team finished outside the top four, Sairaj worked with Kerala and Bengal men’s teams earlier. Even in the IPL, he was part of Rajasthan Royals’ support staff from 2018 to 2021, before joining the National Cricket Academy (NCA). He rejoined the franchise for one year during the 2025 edition.&nbsp;Also read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/ipl-founder-lalit-modi-biggest-regret-giving-bcci-too-much-power-indian-premier-league-valuation-ipl-2026-final-rcb-beat-gt-1780399643914">‘My Biggest Regret’: IPL founder Lalit Modi on giving BCCI too much power</a> &nbsp;During Rahul Dravid’s tenure as Team India head coach, Sairaj was part of the support staff for India A series, alongside a few India series. &nbsp;Meanwhile, Bahutule had a brief international career. Since making his India debut in 1997, the leg-spinner has played only two Tests and eight ODIs, with his last appearance coming in 2003. However, in domestic cricket, Bahutule registered 630 FC wickets in 188 matches, and 197 in 143 List-A Games &nbsp;Bahutule will now join Team India’s coaching staff consisting of the head coach (Gautam Gambhir), bowling coach Morne Morkel, batting coach Sitanshu Kotak, T Dilip (fielding coach) and Ryan Ten Doeschate (assistant coach). &nbsp;Sitting in the sixth place on the WTC points table with four wins, as many losses and a draw, Team India must pull up its socks should they wish to stay alive in the race for the top two in this cycle. Team India will return to action for the one-off Test against Afghanistan in New Chandigarh, starting June 6.&nbsp;

Domestic cricket legend Sairaj Bahutule joins Gautam Gambhir's Team India backroom staff as specialist spin coach ahead of the Afghanistan Test in Chandigarh.

Sairaj Bahutule, the former Indian leg-spinner and a domestic giant with over 600 wickets in First-Class cricket, will join Team India’s backroom staff as their spin-bowling coach for the one-off Test against Afghanistan. The 53-year-old Punjab Kings spin coach will also work with the spinners in white-ball cricket. Bahutule’s coaching experience should come in handy for the Indian spinners across formats. While his latest stint was with PBKS during the just-concluded IPL 2026, where his team finished outside the top four, Sairaj worked with Kerala and Bengal men’s teams earlier. Even in the IPL, he was part of Rajasthan Royals’ support staff from 2018 to 2021, before joining the National Cricket Academy (NCA). He rejoined the franchise for one year during the 2025 edition. Also read | ‘My Biggest Regret’: IPL founder Lalit Modi on giving BCCI too much power During Rahul Dravid’s tenure as Team India head coach, Sairaj was part of the support staff for India A series, alongside a few India series. Meanwhile, Bahutule had a brief international career. Since making his India debut in 1997, the leg-spinner has played only two Tests and eight ODIs, with his last appearance coming in 2003. However, in domestic cricket, Bahutule registered 630 FC wickets in 188 matches, and 197 in 143 List-A Games Bahutule will now join Team India’s coaching staff consisting of the head coach (Gautam Gambhir), bowling coach Morne Morkel, batting coach Sitanshu Kotak, T Dilip (fielding coach) and Ryan Ten Doeschate (assistant coach). Sitting in the sixth place on the WTC points table with four wins, as many losses and a draw, Team India must pull up its socks should they wish to stay alive in the race for the top two in this cycle. Team India will return to action for the one-off Test against Afghanistan in New Chandigarh, starting June 6.

Domestic cricket legend Sairaj Bahutule joins Gautam Gambhir's Team India backroom staff as specialist spin coach ahead of the Afghanistan Test in Chandigarh.

Remember Sairaj Bahutule? PBKS spin coach joins India support staff for Afghanistan series

For the first time in history, Afghanistan’s men’s cricket team is set to host India in a bilateral series. According to media reports, the two sides will play a three-match T20I series in Sep 2026, with all matches scheduled to be held in India. While an official confirmation is still pending, sources indicate that the Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI) and the Afghanistan Cricket Board (ACB) have reached an agreement, with only a few formalities remaining before the announcement.&nbsp;“BCCI and ACB share a good relationship. BCCI has been helping other boards like Ireland, Sri Lanka, and Zimbabwe by sending Indian teams to play series there to boost the finances of those boards. An understanding has been reached between BCCI and ACB in this regard. An official announcement will be made after a few modalities are completed," a BCCI source was quoted as saying by TOI on Tuesday.&nbsp;The series is expected to take place at Delhi’s Arun Jaitley Stadium on Sep 13, 16 and 19 and will serve as preparation ahead of the Asian Games.&nbsp;&nbsp;“The BCCI facilitated an understanding between the ACB and the Delhi and District Cricket Association (DDCA) for Delhi to serve as the home base for Afghanistan during the series. The DDCA is also scheduling its Delhi Premier League T20 accordingly," the source said.&nbsp;“The itinerary has been shared with India’s national selection committee since it has to pick a 15-member T20 squad for the Asian Games later in September. The cricket competition at the Asian Games is scheduled to begin on September 23. The selectors will pick the team accordingly," the source added.&nbsp;Also Read - <a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/icc-reschedules-women-s-champions-trophy-2027-to-february-window-1780384079095">ICC reschedules Women’s Champions Trophy 2027 to February window</a>&nbsp;Due to ongoing geopolitical challenges, Afghanistan have been unable to host international cricket regularly at home and have instead used venues in India and the United Arab Emirates.&nbsp;&nbsp;Meanwhile, Afghanistan are also scheduled to tour India this month for a one-off Test and a three-match ODI series. The Test match will be played at the New PCA Stadium in Mullanpur from Jun 6 to 10. The ODI leg of the tour will follow, with matches scheduled in Dharamsala, Lucknow and Chennai on Jun 13, 17 and 20 respectively.

The T20I series between India and Afghanistan is expected to take place at Delhi’s Arun Jaitley Stadium on Sep 13, 16, 19 and will serve as preparation ahead of the Asian Games.

For the first time in history, Afghanistan’s men’s cricket team is set to host India in a bilateral series. According to media reports, the two sides will play a three-match T20I series in Sep 2026, with all matches scheduled to be held in India. While an official confirmation is still pending, sources indicate that the Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI) and the Afghanistan Cricket Board (ACB) have reached an agreement, with only a few formalities remaining before the announcement. “BCCI and ACB share a good relationship. BCCI has been helping other boards like Ireland, Sri Lanka, and Zimbabwe by sending Indian teams to play series there to boost the finances of those boards. An understanding has been reached between BCCI and ACB in this regard. An official announcement will be made after a few modalities are completed," a BCCI source was quoted as saying by TOI on Tuesday. The series is expected to take place at Delhi’s Arun Jaitley Stadium on Sep 13, 16 and 19 and will serve as preparation ahead of the Asian Games. “The BCCI facilitated an understanding between the ACB and the Delhi and District Cricket Association (DDCA) for Delhi to serve as the home base for Afghanistan during the series. The DDCA is also scheduling its Delhi Premier League T20 accordingly," the source said. “The itinerary has been shared with India’s national selection committee since it has to pick a 15-member T20 squad for the Asian Games later in September. The cricket competition at the Asian Games is scheduled to begin on September 23. The selectors will pick the team accordingly," the source added. Also Read - ICC reschedules Women’s Champions Trophy 2027 to February window Due to ongoing geopolitical challenges, Afghanistan have been unable to host international cricket regularly at home and have instead used venues in India and the United Arab Emirates. Meanwhile, Afghanistan are also scheduled to tour India this month for a one-off Test and a three-match ODI series. The Test match will be played at the New PCA Stadium in Mullanpur from Jun 6 to 10. The ODI leg of the tour will follow, with matches scheduled in Dharamsala, Lucknow and Chennai on Jun 13, 17 and 20 respectively.

The T20I series between India and Afghanistan is expected to take place at Delhi’s Arun Jaitley Stadium on Sep 13, 16, 19 and will serve as preparation ahead of the Asian Games.

Delhi set to host India vs Afghanistan T20I series in September 2026

IPL founder and fugitive billionaire Lalit Modi opens up about his biggest regret, and it centres entirely around the Indian Cricket Board. After the BCCI expelled and banned the creator of the world's richest cricket league over financial irregularities and misconduct following the 2010 edition, Modi said he regretted leaving India without doing certain things that needed to be done at that time. Modi revealed how everyone was jealous of his creation, adding that the cash-rich Indian Premier League wouldn’t have worked if it hadn’t been for him.&nbsp;“I was cut to size because of many other issues. Everybody was jealous. It wouldn’t have worked if I had not been who I was. The IPL wouldn’t have worked if not for me. Why are you talking to me 17 years later, despite me not being part of the game since then?” Modi said while speaking to Wisden for the Scoop Extended.&nbsp; &nbsp;"It (The idea of IPL) just didn’t come out of thin air. It went through a lot of scientific research and a lot of learnings of mine. Everybody around the world has tried to create what I created and failed. When people say, I made a mistake, I didn’t make a mistake. If I had to ever do this again, it wouldn’t be any different from what I did last time,” he added.&nbsp;Also read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/how-vaibhav-sooryavanshi-planned-his-historic-776-run-ipl-season-months-in-advance-1780384799933">How Vaibhav Sooryavanshi planned his historic 776-run IPL season months in advance</a> &nbsp;Modi, however, revealed his biggest regret was handing too much power to the BCCI over the IPL, which now rules this world of T20-based franchise leagues. Even though most of the Test-playing nations now have their own franchise T20 leagues, none compares to the IPL, whose valuation is approximately $18bn (INR 1.63 lakh crores). &nbsp;“I regretted the fact that I left India without doing certain things that had to be done. The founder of the IPL should always get a seat on the board of the league. I gave too much power to the BCCI,” Modi said.&nbsp; &nbsp;“I could have dictated at the time what I wanted because everybody thought it’s gonna fail. They didn’t really care about it; I had already written the constitution of a separate company being formed. Obviously, BCCI would continue to get the money, but the governance of the league should have been in partnership with the IPL owners along with the BCCI,” he concluded. &nbsp;Meanwhile, the BCCI successfully hosted the 18th edition of the Indian Premier League, with the Royal Challengers Bengaluru (RCB) defending its IPL crown. The RCB beat the Gujarat Titans (GT) in the IPL 2026 final in Ahmedabad.&nbsp;

IPL founder Lalit Modi reveals his "biggest regret" regarding the BCCI's total control over the $18bn league and claims it wouldn't exist without him.

IPL founder and fugitive billionaire Lalit Modi opens up about his biggest regret, and it centres entirely around the Indian Cricket Board. After the BCCI expelled and banned the creator of the world's richest cricket league over financial irregularities and misconduct following the 2010 edition, Modi said he regretted leaving India without doing certain things that needed to be done at that time. Modi revealed how everyone was jealous of his creation, adding that the cash-rich Indian Premier League wouldn’t have worked if it hadn’t been for him. “I was cut to size because of many other issues. Everybody was jealous. It wouldn’t have worked if I had not been who I was. The IPL wouldn’t have worked if not for me. Why are you talking to me 17 years later, despite me not being part of the game since then?” Modi said while speaking to Wisden for the Scoop Extended. "It (The idea of IPL) just didn’t come out of thin air. It went through a lot of scientific research and a lot of learnings of mine. Everybody around the world has tried to create what I created and failed. When people say, I made a mistake, I didn’t make a mistake. If I had to ever do this again, it wouldn’t be any different from what I did last time,” he added. Also read | How Vaibhav Sooryavanshi planned his historic 776-run IPL season months in advance Modi, however, revealed his biggest regret was handing too much power to the BCCI over the IPL, which now rules this world of T20-based franchise leagues. Even though most of the Test-playing nations now have their own franchise T20 leagues, none compares to the IPL, whose valuation is approximately $18bn (INR 1.63 lakh crores). “I regretted the fact that I left India without doing certain things that had to be done. The founder of the IPL should always get a seat on the board of the league. I gave too much power to the BCCI,” Modi said. “I could have dictated at the time what I wanted because everybody thought it’s gonna fail. They didn’t really care about it; I had already written the constitution of a separate company being formed. Obviously, BCCI would continue to get the money, but the governance of the league should have been in partnership with the IPL owners along with the BCCI,” he concluded. Meanwhile, the BCCI successfully hosted the 18th edition of the Indian Premier League, with the Royal Challengers Bengaluru (RCB) defending its IPL crown. The RCB beat the Gujarat Titans (GT) in the IPL 2026 final in Ahmedabad.

IPL founder Lalit Modi reveals his "biggest regret" regarding the BCCI's total control over the $18bn league and claims it wouldn't exist without him.

‘My Biggest Regret’: IPL founder Lalit Modi on giving BCCI too much power

Former England captain and Ashes hero Andrew Flintoff takes the reins as the new head coach of the Big Bash League franchise Sydney Thunder. Having already coached The Hundred franchise Northern Superchargers (now SunRisers Leeds) in 2024 and 2025, Flintoff will mark his first head coaching role in the BBL. Flintoff’s appointment, which the Thunder says is ‘the most significant off-field acquisition in club history’, comes on the back of his experience coaching England Lions and the A-side in the past 12 months, including against Australia ahead of the away Ashes.

<blockquote class="twitter-tweet">Sydney Thunder are proud to announce Andrew &#39;Freddie&#39; Flintoff | <a href="https://x.com/flintoff11?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@flintoff11</a> as BBL Head Coach for until the end of BBL|17 ⚡️ Full release ➡️ <a href="https://t.co/gKig9dOOBy">https://t.co/gKig9dOOBy</a> <a href="https://t.co/WGkQ3LNRKo">pic.twitter.com/WGkQ3LNRKo</a>&mdash; Sydney Thunder (@ThunderBBL) <a href="https://x.com/ThunderBBL/status/2061721535329767849?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">June 2, 2026</a></blockquote> <script async src="https://platform.x.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script>

His appointment as Thunder’s coach will affect the Lions’ tour of South Africa in December, as their schedules overlap. Flintoff, however, has also briefly worked with England’s white-ball squads as a consultant when Matthew Mott was coaching the senior team.&nbsp;Also read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/team-india-s-schedule-after-ipl-2026-complete-list-of-matches-dates-and-venues-1780387433672">Team India's schedule after IPL 2026: Complete list of matches, dates and venues</a> &nbsp;"This is a huge day in the history of Sydney Thunder, and the BBL more broadly," Thunder general manager Trent Copeland said. "Fred brings something truly unique to Sydney Thunder. He's a global icon of the game, but more importantly, he is a modern leader who understands how to build high-performance environments, connect with players as people, and set standards that last. His passion for the game, coaching itself and knowledge of Australian cricket, and our Thunder program stood out during the process. &nbsp;"The goal here isn't just about the now; it's about a step-change to establishing a culture and identity that will set us up for sustained success for years to come,” he continued. &nbsp;Flintoff will replace former England coach Trevor Bayliss, under whom Thunder reached the BBL final in the 2024/25 edition, while also finishing last in the 2023-24 and 2025-26 seasons.<h3>‘Cannot wait to get started’</h3>Having earlier plied his trade as a player in the Big Bash League (with the Brisbane Heat), Flintoff said he cannot wait to get started in a newer role.&nbsp; &nbsp;"I can't wait to get over there and get started," Flintoff said of his appointment. "I'm looking at this with a lot of optimism. You look at the franchise, you look at the players, you look at the support, and I think there's something really big to build on. &nbsp;"You look at the squad, and it's a real nice mix. You've got David Warner, Chris Green, Daniel Sams - some of these older guys are established cricketers, and you just want to provide an environment where they can go out there and flourish. We've seen how good they are. I saw Sam Konstas play against England Under-19s, against one of my lads - incredible talent. Matthew Gilkes and Tanveer Sangha are the same,” he added.

Ashes hero Andrew Flintoff has been named the new head coach of BBL franchise Sydney Thunder. Discover what this "historic" signing means for the club.

Former England captain and Ashes hero Andrew Flintoff takes the reins as the new head coach of the Big Bash League franchise Sydney Thunder. Having already coached The Hundred franchise Northern Superchargers (now SunRisers Leeds) in 2024 and 2025, Flintoff will mark his first head coaching role in the BBL. Flintoff’s appointment, which the Thunder says is ‘the most significant off-field acquisition in club history’, comes on the back of his experience coaching England Lions and the A-side in the past 12 months, including against Australia ahead of the away Ashes.

Ashes hero Andrew Flintoff has been named the new head coach of BBL franchise Sydney Thunder. Discover what this "historic" signing means for the club.

Ashes hero Andrew Flintoff takes reins as Sydney Thunder head coach in BBL

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Ashes hero Andrew Flintoff takes reins as Sydney Thunder head coach in BBL