Saturday, May 09
Harbhajan Singh expressed disappointment over the way Indian legends Virat Kohli and Rohit Sharma have been treated amid talk of a forced transition, saying many greats before them were similarly sidelined. He criticised those “who haven’t achieved much” for deciding the duo’s future, while praising Kohli and Rohit for their dominant ODI form and backing them as ideal role models — and contenders for the 2027 ODI World Cup.
Lionel Messi, 38, remains non-committal about a 2026 World Cup appearance despite leading Argentina's qualifiers. He cited his current form and the advantage of playing in the US, where Inter Miami is based, as factors influencing his decision. Messi is in regular dialogue with coach Lionel Scaloni regarding his potential role, hinting at a possible sixth World Cup appearance.
India's junior men's hockey team triumphed over Belgium in a dramatic quarterfinal clash, securing a 4-3 shootout victory after a 2-2 draw. Goalkeeper Princedeep Singh was a standout, making crucial saves and earning Player of the Match. Sharda Nand Tiwari and Ankit Pal were instrumental in the shootout win. India now faces Germany in the semifinals.
Arjun Tendulkar has achieved a unique T20 milestone by opening both batting and bowling for Goa, a feat his father Sachin Tendulkar never accomplished. Arjun's all-round performance in his new role highlights his growing impact in domestic cricket, contrasting with his father's T20 career, where he primarily opened the batting.
Former India spinner Ravichandran Ashwin believes Virat Kohli is playing with a point to prove after taking whispers about his future to heart. Kohli's animated celebrations and agreement to play the Vijay Hazare Trophy suggest a fierce self-assertion, as he demonstrates renewed technique and ruthless intent, silencing doubts with back-to-back centuries.
