Sports

National team cricketer Shardul Thakur has stoked debate by declaring Sarfaraz Khan doesn’t need India A experience for a national call-up, instead crediting domestic performance as sufficient. His comments sparked a furore in cricket circles, with selectors, ex-players, and fans weighing the importance of rising through the structured ranks. The ongoing dispute raises key questions about merit, exposure, and fair opportunities in Indian cricket’s selection process, with implications for future stars and the game’s evolving pathways to international representation.

Pakistan women's cricket team concluded their World Cup journey without a single win, as persistent rain washed out their final match against Sri Lanka. The outcome seals a challenging and introspective chapter for the squad, highlighting the urgent need for investment and talent development in Pakistani women’s cricket. Team coaches and analysts are calling for comprehensive reforms and enhanced support, while fans express disappointment and push for a stronger domestic system to build international competitiveness for future tournaments.

Virat Kohli has faced rare back-to-back ducks in ODIs against Australia, prompting ex-cricketer Mohammad Kaif to advise following Shreyas Iyer’s approach of playing practice matches for rhythm. Kaif explained that Kohli, now restricted to ODIs, must adapt to maintain form, sparking debate about his role in the Indian side for the next World Cup.

Ahead of India’s cricket tour of Australia, senior batter Rohit Sharma was filmed sitting out net practice sessions while former opener and coach Gautam Gambhir held a long conversational exchange with the newcomer set to replace Rohit in the squad for the upcoming series—a signal of potential transition in India’s leadership set-up.

Indian Super League side FC Goa hosted Saudi Pro League giants Al‑Nassr at Fatorda for their Group D match in the 2025-26 AFC Champions League 2, the game featuring big names despite Ronaldo’s absence. Goa fought hard, scored first via Brison Fernandes but conceded goals to Angelo Gabriel and Haroune Camara and then went down to 10 men after a late red card, ultimately losing 1-2.

Former Indian cricket captain Sunil Gavaskar has vehemently rejected social-media rumours that veteran batter Rohit Sharma is intentionally underperforming to undermine new ODI captain Shubman Gill. Gavaskar argued such theories are baseless, emphasising that senior players have no incentive to sabotage their own standing in the team.

Australia thrashed England by 176 runs in the ongoing ICC Women’s World Cup 2025, powered by stunning centuries from Annabel Sutherland and Ashleigh Gardner. The Aussies posted a mammoth 352/5 before bowling England out for 176. Their dominance marks Australia’s fourth straight win in the tournament, underlining their title-favorite status. England struggled throughout, with their bowlers leaking runs and batters failing to counter spin effectively. The win consolidates Australia’s top position in the group stage.

India’s Women’s World Cup preparations suffered a setback as heavy rain in Wellington washed out their full nets session ahead of the crucial match against New Zealand. Team management confirmed indoor warm-ups replaced training, with the weather forecast indicating further showers likely during match day.

South Africa defeated Pakistan via the DLS method to advance to the semifinals of the Women’s World Cup 2025, ending Pakistan’s campaign. Rain interruptions during the second innings gave South Africa a narrow lead when play was halted. Skipper Laura Wolvaardt anchored the win with a gritty 61, while Pakistan’s inconsistent batting failed under pressure amid a must-win group stage clash.

Pakistan wicketkeeper Mohammad Rizwan has been removed as the ODI captain, with Shaheen Shah Afridi taking over. Former Pakistan cricketer Rashid Latif claimed coach Mike Hesson influenced the decision because of Rizwan’s open pro-Palestine stance and religious practices in the dressing room. This follows Rizwan’s show of solidarity with Gaza during the 2023 and 2024 seasons.