Tuesday, April 29
Novak Djokovic started his quest for an 11th Australian Open title and a 25th Grand Slam, overcoming a tough opening against Nishesh Basavareddy. The American teenager took the first set, but Djokovic prevailed 4-6, 6-3, 6-4, 6-2. Under new coach Andy Murray, Djokovic aims to surpass Margaret Court's record.
In a thrilling finish at the Dubai International Stadium, Tom Kohler-Cadmore’s unbeaten 83 guided Sharjah Warriorz to a three-wicket victory over the Gulf Giants. Chasing 175, Kohler-Cadmore and Rohan Mustafa's 45 helped stabilise the innings after an early wobble. Tim Southee's 3/30 restricted the Giants to 174/7. The win highlighted Warriorz's resilience under pressure.
Shreyas Iyer becomes the first Indian cricketer to lead three different IPL teams, as he is named Punjab Kings captain for the 2025 season. Earlier, he led Kolkata Knight Riders to victory in 2024 and guided Delhi Capitals to the final in 2020. Iyer joins Mahela Jayawardene and Steve Smith in achieving this feat.
Legendary cricketer Sachin Tendulkar's son, Arjun, briefly trained under former India cricketer Yograj Singh in 2022. Yograj explained that people didn't want Arjun's name associated with him after he scored a hundred in the Ranji Trophy and secured an IPL contract post their 12-day training period.
Veteran pacer Mohammed Shami returns after 14 months for India in the five-match T20 series against England. His comeback is crucial, providing experience, leadership, and effective death-over bowling, crucial for India's T20 setup and as preparation for the ICC Champions Trophy and T20 World Cup.
New Zealand, led by Mitchell Santner, announced a strong squad for the Champions Trophy, featuring a robust pace attack and impressive spin options. Former Pakistani cricketer Basit Ali highlighted their potential to challenge both India and Pakistan. The squad includes experienced players like Kane Williamson and several fast bowlers, making them formidable opponents.
There is growing debate over Gautam Gambhir's performance as India's Test cricket coach, with a lackluster record of 3 wins in 10 Test matches. Former England spinner Monty Panesar suggests splitting coaching roles for Test and limited-overs cricket, possibly appointing VVS Laxman as Test coach, given Gambhir's success and comfort with white-ball formats.
South Africa coach Rob Walter announced a 15-member squad for the ICC Champions Trophy 2025. The team, captained by Temba Bavuma, includes 10 players from South Africa’s 2023 ODI World Cup team. New additions are Tony de Zorzi, Ryan Rickelton, Tristan Stubbs, and Wiaan Mulder. The tournament will be held in Pakistan and UAE from February 19 to March 9.
Experience the high-intensity drama of India-Pakistan cricket matches with The Greatest Rivalry: India vs Pakistan, available from February 7 on Netflix. This documentary features legends like Virender Sehwag and Sourav Ganguly, revealing the cultural themes and emotions behind one of the most storied rivalries.
Former UFC champion Khabib Nurmagomedov was removed from a Frontier Airlines flight in Las Vegas after a dispute over his seating in an exit row. The altercation, captured on video, shows Nurmagomedov questioning the airline’s decision and maintaining that he was treated unfairly despite his cooperation.
