Monday, May 04
Pakistan began their T20 series against Sri Lanka with a strong six-wicket victory. Shadab Khan's impressive bowling set the tone. Saim Ayub and Sahibzada Farhan's quick start ensured a comfortable chase. This win signals Pakistan's readiness for the upcoming T20 World Cup. Sri Lanka faces challenges after this opening loss.
Indian presenter Ridhima Pathak clarified she voluntarily withdrew from the Bangladesh Premier League due to the political climate, refuting reports of being dropped. This comes amid heightened India-Bangladesh tensions, including a ban on IPL broadcasts in Bangladesh following a player dispute. The situation has led to significant BPL panel changes.
Star boxers Nikhat Zareen and Minakshi Hooda advanced at the National Boxing Championships. However, the event faced fresh controversy. One bout was abandoned after a disruption. Another saw a boxer accused of biting his opponent. These incidents follow previous officiating concerns. The championships continue with other boxers progressing.
Australia achieved a remarkable batting feat at the SCG, registering seven partnerships of 50 or more runs in an Ashes innings, a feat unseen in 134 years. Steve Smith's unbeaten century and Travis Head's 163 propelled Australia to a commanding first-innings lead against England, showcasing exceptional batting consistency.
New Zealand captain Michael Bracewell expressed his desire to see Indian stalwarts Virat Kohli and Rohit Sharma participate in the 2027 ODI World Cup, citing their current exceptional form. Bracewell highlighted the passion for cricket in India and the challenging, varied pitches as reasons the Black Caps relish touring the country.
New Zealand pacer Kyle Jamieson expressed excitement for the upcoming ODI series against India, particularly the challenge of bowling to in-form superstars Virat Kohli and Rohit Sharma. Jamieson acknowledged the difficulty of facing them on India's batting-friendly wickets but emphasized the team's focus on the current white-ball series, with the T20 World Cup preparation integrated.
Five-time world champion Viswanathan Anand showed he remains a force to reckon with in a field increasingly dominated by youngsters, notching up two wins to emerge joint leader with 2.5 points after three rounds of the Rapid games on the opening day of the Tata Steel Chess India here on Wednesday.
Vaibhav Sooryavanshi and Aaron George starred with centuries as India U-19 thrashed South Africa by 233 runs to complete a 3-0 series whitewash. Sooryavanshi's 127 and George's 118 powered India to 393, a target South Africa couldn't chase, ending at 160. Sooryavanshi was named Player of the Match and Series.
Eleven months is a long time — even longer in sport. It was a period that nearly derailed young all-rounder Shreyanka Patil’s career. Having missed key moments with both the Indian team and Royal Challengers Bengaluru, Shreyanka is set to return in RCB colours this week as the Women’s Premier League (WPL) season gets underway.
Despite a brief 11-run innings from star Shubman Gill, Punjab secured a six-wicket victory over Goa. A crucial 131-run partnership between Harnoor Singh (94 not out) and Naman Dhir (68) guided Punjab to chase down Goa's 212 in a rain-affected 40-over match.
