Wednesday, May 13
Dream11 is ending its title sponsorship of the Indian cricket team following the passage of the 'Promotion and Regulation of Online Gaming Bill 2025,' which led to the shutdown of their real money games operations.
AB de Villiers, the former South African cricket star, has expressed his desire to return to the IPL, potentially as a coach or mentor with Royal Challengers Bengaluru. While a full-time professional role is unlikely, he emphasized his strong connection with RCB.
Aryna Sabalenka commenced her US Open title defence successfully, while Novak Djokovic progressed towards a potential record 25th Grand Slam. Alexandra Eala made history for the Philippines, and Indonesia's Janice Tjen also secured a notable win. Emma Raducanu marked her return with a victory, while Daniil Medvedev faced an unexpected early exit.
Bazid Khan analyzed India's Asia Cup squad, noting the absence of Virat Kohli and Rohit Sharma will impact the team's intensity. He highlighted Suryakumar Yadav's struggles against Pakistan and emphasized Ravindra Jadeja's all-round contribution and fielding prowess will be missed. India faces the challenge of finding the right combination to compensate for these key players.
Karthikeyan Murali, the 26-year-old Grandmaster from Thanjavur, holds a unique place in Indian chess history. In 2023, at the Qatar Masters, he became the only Indian to beat Magnus Carlsen with the black pieces during the Norwegian’s 14-year reign as World No. 1. A two-time national champion, Murali’s accidental chess journey now carries one unforgettable milestone.
The BCCI and Dream11 have ended their partnership following the passage of The Promotion and Regulation of Online Gaming Bill, 2025, which bans money-based online gaming. Dream11 has stopped all paid contests and shifted to a free-to-play model, while My11Circle has also suspended real money games. Both companies affirm their commitment to legal compliance and future updates.
Cheteshwar Pujara, a stalwart of Indian Test cricket, has announced his retirement from all formats of the game. He represented India in 103 Tests, amassing 7,195 runs with a high score of 206. Renowned for his resilience and solid technique, Pujara played a crucial role in India's Test victories, earning him the title "Wall of India."
Australian fast bowler Lance Morris is set to miss the Ashes series and will be sidelined for 12 months following back surgery. The 27-year-old, who was a potential backup pace option, withdrew from the South Africa one-day series due to lower back discomfort. Tests revealed a lumbar bone stress injury, prompting the surgery.
Serena Williams surprised attendees at the International Tennis Hall of Fame ceremony by introducing Maria Sharapova, acknowledging Sharapova's impact on her career. Williams praised Sharapova's on-court competitiveness and off-court business acumen. Sharapova, inducted alongside doubles legends Mike and Bob Bryan, was recognized for her Grand Slam achievements and world No. 1 ranking.
The newly unveiled MCA Sharad Pawar Cricket Museum at Wankhede Stadium, while lauded for its design and exhibits, has stirred debate over its naming. Viren Rasquinha's comment sparked discussion about honoring administrators versus players. The museum celebrates Mumbai's cricketing history, featuring interactive displays and memorabilia, opening to the public on September 22, 2025.
