Saturday, May 02
Abhishek Sharma's explosive 84 off 35 balls powered India to a record-extending 238/7 against New Zealand in the first T20I. Sharma became the fastest to 5,000 T20 runs and hit the quickest fifty by an Indian against New Zealand. Suryakumar Yadav and Rinku Singh also contributed significantly, while Arshdeep Singh continued his wicket-taking spree.
Babar Azam's challenging Big Bash League stint with Sydney Sixers has concluded as he returns to Pakistan's national camp for upcoming T20Is against Australia and the World Cup. Despite a disappointing BBL run with modest statistics, his recall signals his importance to Pakistan's plans, aiming to regain form.
Ravichandran Ashwin lauded Suryakumar Yadav's 22-ball 32 in the first T20I against New Zealand, calling it a crucial knock to overcome a lean patch. India secured a commanding 48-run victory, with strong performances from Abhishek Sharma and Rinku Singh, taking a 1-0 series lead.
With cricket set to return to the Olympics, the European T20 Premier League, backed by the cricket's governing body ICC, aims to transform associate cricket by bringing elite global stars to Europe. Backed by Bollywood actor Abhishek Bachchan and featuring names like Steve Waugh, Mitchell Santner and Glenn Maxwell, ETPL offers exposure, credibility and development opportunities across Scotland, Ireland and the Netherlands.
Emotional Saina Nehwal announced her retirement from badminton, citing a chronic knee condition that prevents her from competing at the highest level. The 2012 London Olympics bronze medalist, India's first in badminton, expressed gratitude for the love and support received throughout her illustrious career. She remains optimistic about India's future Olympic gold medal prospects in various sports.
Pakistan Cricket Board has formally backed Bangladesh's decision to avoid playing matches in India for the 2026 T20 World Cup. This move comes as the International Cricket Council prepares to meet and decide on Bangladesh's participation. Bangladesh cited political and security concerns for their stance. The ICC has so far maintained that the tournament schedule will not change.
Tuesday’s Champions League action delivered major upsets and dominant wins. Manchester City lost 3–1 to Bodo/Glimt, and PSG fell 2–1 to Sporting CP. Arsenal stayed perfect with a 3–1 win over Inter, securing a top-two finish, while Real Madrid thrashed Monaco 6–1. Tottenham also boosted their top-eight hopes with a 2–0 victory over Dortmund.
India defeated New Zealand by 48 runs in the first T20 International. Abhishek Sharma scored 84 runs off 35 balls. Rinku Singh added 44 runs. New Zealand's Glenn Phillips scored 78 runs. India's bowling secured the win. Abhishek Sharma's performance was key to India's dominance.
