Tuesday, May 05
Sri Lanka have appointed legend Lasith Malinga as consultant fast bowling coach ahead of the ICC Men’s T20 World Cup 2026. His short-term stint runs from December 15 to January 25. The 2014 title-winning captain brings vast T20 experience, with 107 wickets in 84 matches. Sri Lanka, co-hosts of the event, begin their campaign against Ireland on February 8 after preparatory series versus Pakistan and England.
Arjun Erigaisi finally broke his world championship jinx, securing a coveted podium finish at the World Rapid Championship. After years of near-misses, the young Indian chess prodigy showcased remarkable resilience, overcoming setbacks to clinch a bronze medal. This achievement marks a significant milestone, placing him alongside Viswanathan Anand as a decorated Indian player on the world stage.
Indian selectors have dropped Shubman Gill from the 2026 T20 World Cup squad, citing his recent form slump. Despite this, former spinner Harbhajan Singh believes it's not an end for Gill, highlighting the intense competition. Suryakumar Yadav retains captaincy, with selectors backing his ability to deliver. Axar Patel is vice-captain, and Ishan Kishan returns.
Young wicketkeeper-batter Dhruv Jurel has made a compelling case for India's ODI squad with exceptional Vijay Hazare Trophy performances. His recent unbeaten 160 off 101 balls, alongside over 300 runs in three matches, puts him firmly in contention for the upcoming New Zealand series, especially with Rishabh Pant's potential absence.
Jasprit Bumrah and Hardik Pandya are expected to be rested from the upcoming ODI series against New Zealand to ensure they are fresh for the T20 World Cup. Rishabh Pant might also be excluded from the ODI squad, with Ishan Kishan being a strong contender for a recall.
Indian selectors have dropped Shubman Gill from the 2026 T20 World Cup squad, citing his recent form slump. Despite this, former spinner Harbhajan Singh believes it's not an end for Gill, highlighting the intense competition. Suryakumar Yadav retains captaincy, with selectors backing his ability to deliver. Axar Patel is vice-captain, and Ishan Kishan returns.
Magnus Carlsen lost his Round 14 game by forfeit at the World Blitz Championship in Doha after knocking over multiple pieces while under severe time pressure against Haik Martirosyan. The incident, his second outburst at the event, further dented his title hopes. Carlsen now sits fifth, struggling in Blitz despite recently winning a record sixth World Rapid title, as Arjun Erigaisi leads the standings.
