Wednesday, May 13
Ambati Rayudu has revealed that the boundary rope in the T20 World Cup final between India and South Africa was unintentionally moved back due to broadcast equipment. This adjustment, according to Rayudu, played a crucial role in Suryakumar Yadav's catch to dismiss David Miller. Despite the controversy, Rayudu maintains the catch was legitimate, attributing India's triumph to divine intervention.
Ravichandran Ashwin has criticised the Asia Cup squad selection, questioning Shreyas Iyer and Yashasvi Jaiswal's exclusion. Despite Iyer's IPL success and Jaiswal's form, they were omitted, raising concerns about fairness. Abhishek Nayar echoed these sentiments, suggesting Shubman Gill's selection indicates future leadership plans. Nayar also emphasised the importance of managing Jasprit Bumrah's workload, considering his crucial role in India's success.
Carlos Alcaraz secured the Cincinnati Open title. Jannik Sinner, the defending champion, retired due to illness early in the final. Sinner's focus shifts to recovery for the US Open. Alcaraz expressed sympathy for Sinner and satisfaction with his own victory. He looks forward to performing well at the US Open.
India announce its 15-member squad for the Asia Cup 2025, retaining Suryakumar Yadav as captain and promoting Shubman Gill to vice-captain. The squad sees the return of Jasprit Bumrah and includes fresh faces like Harshit Rana and Jitesh Sharma. While a strong core from the victorious England series remains, notable omissions include Mohammed Shami, Shreyas Iyer and Yashasvi Jaiswal.
Iga Swiatek secured her first Cincinnati Open title, defeating Jasmine Paolini in straight sets. The victory, Swiatek's 11th WTA 1000 title, brings her closer to Serena Williams' record and boosts her confidence heading into the US Open. This win also puts her within striking distance of the WTA number one ranking currently held by Aryna Sabalenka.
Keshav Maharaj's career-best 5-33 propelled South Africa to a 98-run victory over Australia in the first ODI at Cairns. South Africa posted 296-8, dismissing Australia for 198 after a batting collapse triggered by Maharaj and Subrayen. Earlier, Markram, Bavuma, and Breetzke scored half-centuries, setting the stage for South Africa's dominant performance.
Kuldeep Yadav and Varun Chakravarthy eagerly await the Asia Cup 2025 squad announcement, hoping to showcase their spin prowess. Kuldeep, after a stint on the sidelines in England, aims to reignite his T20I form, while Varun looks to continue his impressive international return. Their coach believes their partnership could be a formidable weapon for India in the tournament.
India are set to clash with China in their opening match of the Hockey Asia Cup 2025, scheduled for August 29 in Rajgir, Bihar. The tournament not only crowns Asia's top team but also offers a coveted qualification spot for the FIH Hockey World Cup Belgium-Netherlands 2026. Eight teams will compete, with the final slated for September 7.
