Saturday, May 02
India's T20I captain Suryakumar Yadav is confident for the upcoming series against New Zealand. He plans to stick to his aggressive style of play. Injuries to Tilak Varma and Washington Sundar have created opportunities for other players. Ravi Bishnoi and Shreyas Iyer have been included in the squad. The first T20I is on January 20.
Pakistan has halted preparations for the T20 World Cup 2026, backing Bangladesh's refusal to play in India due to security concerns. Islamabad has indicated it may withdraw if the issue isn't resolved, following Bangladesh's withdrawal from the IPL. The ICC is reluctant to shift Bangladesh's matches, potentially leading to Scotland's replacement.
India captain Suryakumar Yadav said Ishan Kishan will bat at No. 3 ahead of Shreyas Iyer in the New Zealand T20 series as he is part of India’s T20 World Cup squad and a like-for-like replacement for injured Tilak Varma. Iyer will be considered at No. 5. Suryakumar stressed flexibility in batting roles and prioritised team success over individual form.
Indian GM R Praggnanandhaa has confirmed his third appearance at Norway Chess, becoming the second announced participant after Magnus Carlsen. The 2026 Candidates qualifier and world No. 4 previously won the event in 2022 and defeated Carlsen in 2024. Organisers praised his consistency and ambition, while hopes remain for D Gukesh and Arjun Erigaisi to join the field.
Former captain Rohit Sharma offered advice to spinner Kuldeep Yadav for the upcoming T20 World Cup. Sharma suggested Yadav focus on his bowling and refrain from frequent appeals. This comes as the team considers selection between Yadav and Varun Chakaravarthy. Yadav is part of India's squad for the T20 World Cup.
KL Rahul will return to Ranji Trophy action for Karnataka against Punjab from January 29, while Nitish Kumar Reddy has confirmed availability for Andhra Pradesh’s remaining group games. Shubman Gill and Ravindra Jadeja are also set for domestic outings. Meanwhile, Rishabh Pant is likely to miss the second leg of the tournament due to injury and he may head to the CoE in coming days.
Naomi Osaka made a striking fashion statement at the Australian Open, entering Rod Laver Arena with a white parasol, wide-brimmed hat, and veil. The former world number one said the look was about creating lasting memories and telling her own story, with inspiration coming from her daughter and past tennis icons.
A small fire outside Perth’s Optus Stadium caused brief panic during a BBL 2025–26 Qualifier between Perth Scorchers and Sydney Sixers. Thick smoke near a gate drew attention, but the match continued. Security acted swiftly, the fire was controlled, no injuries were reported, and fans were reassured by BBL officials.
