National team director Masakuni Yamamoto confirmed on Friday (IST) that Endo, who captained the Samurai Blue throughout qualifying, will miss the finals, having failed to recover from a foot injury that required surgery in late February.

Borussia Monchengladbach forward Shuto Machino has been called up as Endo's replacement, while centre-back Ko Itakura has been confirmed as replacement captain. The defender, also based at Gladbach, wore the armband in the Kirin Challenge Cup match against Colombia in March.

Endo, capped 73 times by Japan, played his first game since February 11 when appearing in the first half of the team's 1-0 friendly win over Iceland in their Tokyo send-off on 31 May.

He had been training separately from the rest of the Japan squad at their base in Nashville, making a partial return to full training on Wednesday prior to the announcement.

Followong his withdrawal, Endo officially retired from international football. "From the moment I got injured up until now, I have done everything I possibly could, so I have no regrets,"

Endo said in a statement said, "As announced, I will be stepping away from the World Cup squad. Since my injury, I've done everything I possibly could up to this point, so I have no regrets whatsoever.

"Of course, there's frustration at not being able to participate in this World Cup, but more than that, I'm proud of how we've grown together since the Qatar World Cupâ€"me as captain, leading this team and turning our goal of "winning the World Cup" into something we can say as a matter of course.

"The current team is truly a wonderful team. I believe they will overcome any adversity and show us sights we've never seen before. With this campaign, I will be retiring from the national team. So from here on, I'll be cheering for the Japan national team as one of the fans.

The 33-year-old Liverpool midfielder is the anchor in the Japan engine room and coach Hajime Moriyasu had previously indicated that he would be fit in time for the finals.

Japan are in Group F and will open their campaign against the Netherlands in Dallas on 14 June.

New Delhi, June 12 (IANS) The roar inside Estadio Azteca had been building for months. When the moment finally arrived, Mexico delivered exactly what a nation had hoped for â€" a winning start to the 2026 FIFA World Cup.

In front of a packed home crowd, El Tri defeated South Africa 2-0 in a dramatic tournament opener that featured history-making goals, red-card chaos, and the unmistakable sense that Mexico’s World Cup journey could be something special.

The hosts wasted little time imposing themselves on the contest. Mexico controlled possession and repeatedly stretched South Africa’s defense. Their pressure was rewarded when Julian Quinones etched his name into World Cup folklore, scoring the first goal of the tournament and sending the stadium into delirium.

Quinones was the game’s standout performer, constantly troubling the South African back line with his pace and movement. The forward nearly doubled his tally before halftime, but the visitors survived the scare and reached the break trailing by just a single goal.

Any hopes of a South African comeback were severely damaged shortly after the restart.

With Mexico threatening to break clear, Yaya Sithole hauled down Brian Gutierrez as the midfielder raced through on goal. The referee wasted little time in producing a straight red card, reducing Bafana Bafana to ten men and shifting momentum even further toward the hosts.

Mexico sensed the opportunity and tightened their grip on proceedings. The breakthrough that effectively sealed victory arrived through one of the nation’s most experienced stars. Veteran striker Raul Jimenez showed his trademark composure in front of goal, finishing clinically to double Mexico’s advantage and ignite celebrations throughout the stadium.

South Africa’s afternoon then descended into frustration and indiscipline. Themba Zwane was dismissed for violent conduct, leaving his side with only nine players and virtually ending any realistic chance of a late revival.

Yet the drama was not finished.

Deep into stoppage time, Mexico defender Cesar Montes was shown a red card for a reckless challenge, ensuring that the World Cup’s opening match ended with only 19 players remaining on the pitch. While the dismissal slightly dampened the hosts’ celebrations, it could not overshadow what had otherwise been a memorable evening.

For Mexico, the result represented the ideal start to a tournament they are helping host and one they hope will become a landmark chapter in the nation’s football history. Quinones provided the spark, Jimenez supplied the finishing touch, and the Azteca crowd supplied the atmosphere as El Tri claimed three valuable points.

If opening night was any indication, Mexico’s World Cup dream has truly begun.

--IANS

cs/

"Unforgettable Win! Bangladesh defeat Australia and clinch the ODI series! The Tigers roar loud at home! " BCB said in a post on X, formerly Twitter.

A brilliant bowling effort saw Australia reduced to 0/3 at the end of the second over and helped hosts Bangladesh stun the visitors in the rain-shortened second ODI by five wickets via DLS method at the Shere Bangla National Stadium on Thursday.

After Australia won the toss and elected to bat first in a match reduced to 42-overs-a-side following a rain interruption, Taskin Ahmed and Mustafizur Rahman dismantled Australia’s top order in a remarkable opening spell, removing Matthew Short, Cooper Connolly, and Matt Renshaw, all without scoring, with Australia yet to open their account.

Australia managed to score a paltry 187/8 in 42 overs before Bangladesh chased down the rain-adjusted target of 192 for the loss of five wickets for a comprehensive victory.

Australia were left reeling almost immediately, collapsing to 0 for 3 in one of the most extraordinary starts in ODI cricket. Taskin removed Matthew Short for a duck for the third consecutive innings, while Mustafizur struck twice in a devastating new-ball burst.

The tourists eventually recovered thanks to a 103-run seventh-wicket partnership between Marnus Labuschagne and Xavier Bartlett. Initially, skipper Josh Inglis scored 34 off 38 balls to halt the slump, with Cameron Green (25) also making a vital contribution.

Labuschagne then took over, scoring a brilliant unbeaten 55 off 85 balls, hitting three boundaries, while Bartlett struck four boundaries and two sixes in his 48-ball 52, his maiden ODI half-century, to help the Aussies recover to post a modest total.

Mustafizur finished with 3-33, while Taskin ended with 3-27, his late breakthroughs effectively tilting the DLS equation in Bangladesh’s favour after a long rain interruption.

Bangladesh's chase started on a poor note as Bartlett made an immediate impact with the ball, beating the bat and briefly lifting Australia’s hopes.

Bangladesh lost early wickets as Tanzid Hasan fell cheaply and Najmul Hossain Shanto survived a close lbw review. Soumya Sarkar (42) had earlier provided momentum with crisp strokeplay, striking boundaries square of the wicket and clearing the ropes over long-on.

Shanto (42) matched him briefly before Bangladesh’s innings wobbled through a cluster of dismissals, including Litton Das and Mosaddek Hossain, both falling after promising starts.

Though at 44 for 5, the chase still required composure, Towhid Hridoy (40 not out) along with captain Mehidy Hasan Miraz (20 not out) steadied the innings despite suffering a blow to the head, steadied the innings.

Hridoy accelerated the scoring rate decisively, finishing the contest with a hook for six followed by a pulled boundary, before Miraz sealed victory with another aggressive hook.

The win gave Bangladesh an unbeatable 2-0 lead in the three-match ODI series.

Brief scores:

Australia 187/8 in 42 overs (Marnus Labuschagne 55 not out, Xavier Bartlett 52, Josh Inglis 34; Taskin Ahmed 3-33, Mustafizur Rahman 3-27, Tanvir Islam 2-45) lost to Bangladesh 195/5 in 35 overs (Soumya Sarkar 42, Towhid Hridoy 40 not out, Najmul Hossain Shanto 41; Xavier Bartlett 1-23, Matt Renshaw 1-29) by five wickets via DLS method

The 2026 FIFA World Cup is finally here, and from the millennials, who grew up waking at odd hours to watch Ronaldo, Zidane, and Ronaldinho, to Gen Z supporters documenting every kick, save, and celebration on social media, football's biggest spectacle has once again united generations in a familiar ritual — sacrificing sleep for the beautiful game.

As the tournament got underway at Mexico City's iconic Estadio Azteca, social media burst into life. Timelines transformed into virtual stadiums as memes, predictions, celebrations, and heated debates flooded screens within minutes of the opening ceremony.

"Four years of waiting and now my sleep schedule is officially destroyed," one fan posted on X.

Another wrote: "World Cup season is the only time being awake late feels completely normal."

A third summed up the mood perfectly: "The World Cup isn't a tournament. It's a month-long emotion."

The opening ceremony delivered the spectacle fans had been eagerly awaiting. FIFA President Gianni Infantino officially declared the tournament open and presented the World Cup trophy before a packed Azteca crowd, triggering a deafening roar inside one of football's most revered arenas.

Then came the entertainment.

Global pop icon Shakira and Nigerian Afrobeats superstar Burna Boy lit up the stadium with a vibrant performance of the official tournament anthem, Dai Dai. The dazzling mix of music, lights, and colour transformed the historic venue into a celebration of football's worldwide appeal.

Yet amid the star power and spectacle, Estadio Azteca itself remained the evening's most powerful symbol.

Few stadiums carry World Cup history quite like it. Pelé lifted the trophy there in 1970. Diego Maradona followed in 1986. Now, the legendary arena has become the first stadium in football history to host matches across three separate FIFA World Cups.

For older fans, it is a journey back to cherished memories. For younger supporters, it is the beginning of a new one.

The faces may change. Technology may evolve. Social media may dominate the conversation. Yet one thing remains constant: when the World Cup begins, the world stops sleeping and starts dreaming.

Spanish actress Salma Hayek and FIFA president Gianni Infantino have declared the tournament open and placed the trophy inside the Mexico City stadium.

With thousands of fans packing the legendary venue, FIFA President Gianni Infantino officially declared the tournament open before presenting the coveted World Cup trophy to an enthusiastic crowd. The ceremony marked the start of football's biggest celebration and set the tone for a month-long festival across North America.

Global music stars Shakira and Burna Boy headlined the star-studded event, captivating supporters with a vibrant performance of the tournament's official anthem, "Dai Dai." Their energetic show transformed the stadium into a sea of colour, lights, and music, creating an electric atmosphere ahead of the opening match.

The festivities began approximately 90 minutes before kick-off, with cultural performances and visual displays showcasing the rich heritage of the host nation. Fans from around the world joined in the celebrations, waving flags and singing along as the excitement reached fever pitch.

The choice of Estadio Azteca added a powerful historical dimension to the occasion. Widely regarded as one of football's most iconic venues, the stadium became the first in history to host World Cup matches in three different editions of the tournament, having previously staged games in 1970 and 1986.

Its legacy is unmatched. Brazilian legend Pelé celebrated World Cup glory on its famous turf in 1970, while Argentine icon Diego Maradona lifted the trophy there 16 years later after inspiring his nation to victory.

Now, four decades after its last World Cup showcase, the Azteca once again took centre stage, opening a new chapter in football history as the 2026 tournament officially got underway in unforgettable fashion.

The exciting opening ceremony set the stage for the opening match between co-hosts Mexico and South Africa, which will be followed by a clash between South Korea and Czechia.

In a rain-interrupted first match of the day, Dhanbad Diamonds posted 63/2 in 7 overs before heavy showers halted the play. Aryaman Sen anchored the innings with an unbeaten 31* off 20 balls, supported by Aditya Singh’s 24* off 16 balls. For the Royals, Ritwik M Pathak (1/12) and Suprieyo Chakraborty (1/16) picked up a wicket each.

Following the delay, the Chota Nagpur Royals were set a revised DLS target of 65 runs in 5 overs. Openers Virat Singh (38* off 15 balls) and MD Nazim Siddiqui (23* off 11 balls) chased down the target effortlessly, reaching 65/0 in just 4.2 overs to seal a comprehensive 10-wicket victory. Virat Singh was awarded the player of the match.

In the second match of the day, Ranchi Titans were put into bat and posted a formidable 227/5. Openers Shikhar Mohan and Aryan Hudda gave the team a blistering start, putting on 93 runs in 7.4 overs before Aryan Hudda fell for 40 off 16 balls. Player of the match, Shikhar Mohan, top-scored with a brilliant 90 off 48 balls, while Shrestha contributed a rapid 57 off 31 balls. Skipper Rajandeep Singh added a late cameo of 21 off 12 balls.

Chasing a target of 228, the Santhal Strikers struggled to maintain the required run rate despite a promising start from openers Vibhor Pandey (26) and Vivek Kumar (10). A resilient, unbeaten 71-run seventh-wicket partnership between Sumit Kumar (67) and Ravi Kumar Yadav gave the innings a standing effort, but the Santhal Strikers ultimately finished at 185/6 in 20 overs.

For Ranchi Titans, Prince Anurag Murmu led the bowling attack with impressive figures of 3/26, helping his team secure a 42-run victory in the match.

Second seed GM Sankalp Gupta was shocked by Sri Lankan IM L M S T De Silva in a short game. In another major upset, third seed GM Abhijeet Gupta, a former World junior Champion, lost to 17-year-old IM Akshay Borgaonkar from Pune. IM Kauvstuv Kundu defeated Andrey Gorovetz of Belarus.

The higher-rated overseas Grandmasters also found the going tough and had to settle for draws. Fifth seed GM Luka Paichadze of Georgia was held to a draw by FM Adak Bivor, while 9th seed GM Boris Savchenko too had to settle for a draw against Daeevik Wadhawan. FM Vivaan Shah could also earn half a point against GM Aleksandrov Aleksej. FM Kush Bhagat also earned a creditable draw against eighth seed IM Nitin Belurkar.

Amidst the spate of major and minor upsets, top seed GM Iniyan Pa, the reigning National champion, showed plenty of spirit and spunk to eke out a win from a dead- draw appearing position against L Srihari. The frequent exchange of pieces between them in a Queen’s Gambit Declined game soon transposed into a rook and identical pawn ending.

While most times these positions are declared theoretically drawn, Iniyan played a waiting game, testing Srihari’s defence, which paid dividends with Srihari blundering with a King move on the 64th turn. Iniyan pocketed the point on the 74th turn by threatening to promote his pawn.

Sankalp Gupta was on the defending side, right from the Opening stages of a French Advance Defence against an aggressive DE Silva. In a sort of a whirlwind attack, De Silva’s two knights, rook and Queen, broke through the defensive barriers after the rolled pawns had made inroads into enemy territory to set up a checkmating net. The game lasted for 26 moves.

In a Reti game, Abhijeet Gupta was pushed on the back foot almost from the initial stages by Borgaonkar. Gupta, a multiple-time Commonwealth Champion, was not in the best of form, and a few inaccurate moves resulted in his pieces pushed backwards even as Black’s pawns advanced menacingly.

Gupta castled late and tried to get a counterattack going with his queen and bishop. By the 18th turn, Borgaonkar had a couple of pawns extra and played perfectly. Gupta continued to fight a battle that kept going downhill and resigned on the 54th turn when faced with an inevitable checkmate.

The 13-year-old Madhavendra Pratap Sharma notched up a double delight by winning both his games in the junior category and the Challenger category after being seeded top in both Categories. The higher seeds had a smooth sailing in this category, albeit there were a few draws.

Results

GM Iniyan, Pa (1) beat Srihari, L (0)

De Silva, L M S T (0) lost to Sankalp, Gupta (1)

Gupta, Abhijeet (0) lost to Borgaonkar, Akshay (1)

Mohammad, Nubairshah Shaikh (½) Draw Ajay, Santhosh Parvathareddy (½)

Paichadze, Luka (½) draw Bivor, Adak (½)

GM Nikitenko, Mihail (1) beat Wagh, Suyog (0)

Tushar Deshpande starred with the ball, returning impressive figures of 4/21 to help bundle out the Ajinkya Rahane-led Panthers for 148 in their allotted 20 overs.

In reply, the Maratha Royals chased down the target with composure, thanks to a match-winning, unbeaten knock of 62 off 49 balls from Chinmay Sutar. Holding his nerve in the thrilling chase, Sutar guided the defending champions into their second successive final.

MSC Maratha Royals will now take on Arcs Andheri in the title clash on Saturday, starting at 7 PM.

Earlier in the day, skipper Shivam Dube led from the front with a match-winning unbeaten knock as Arcs Andheri stormed into the final with a five-wicket victory over Aakash Tigers Mumbai Western Suburbs in the first semi-final at the same venue.

After producing a disciplined bowling display to restrict the Tigers to 150/7, Andheri overcame a few hiccups in the chase before Dube's late fireworks guided them home with nine balls to spare.

Chasing 151, Andheri suffered an early setback when Musheer Khan was dismissed for a duck with just one run on the board. Opener Divyaansh Sksena and Arjun Tendulkar then steadied the innings with a 41-run partnership for the second wicket. However, Shams Mulani struck twice to swing the momentum back in favour of the Tigers, first removing Tendulkar (13) before dismissing the well-set Sksena for a brisk 34 off 16 balls, an innings featuring six fours and a six.

Prasad Pawar (26) and Pragnesh Kanpillewar (18) attempted to rebuild the chase with a valuable 40-run stand for the fourth wicket. Just as Andheri looked to be taking control, Ajit Yadav delivered a crucial double blow in the 13th over, dismissing both batters and reducing Andheri to 92/5.

With the chase hanging in the balance, Dube took charge. The Andheri skipper stitched together an unbroken 59-run partnership with Gaurav Jathar (11 not out) and finished unbeaten on 45 off just 26 deliveries, smashing five sixes and a four to seal his side's place in the final.

Opting to bat first, Tigers skipper Sarfaraz Khan provided an aggressive start with a 34-run knock off 17 balls, including six fours and a six. Opener Jay Bista added 35 off 33 deliveries, while Harsh Rane (13) and Ajit Yadav (12) chipped in with useful contributions.

However, the Tigers struggled to build substantial partnerships in the middle overs, with Saksham Parashar falling for a duck and the rest of the batting order failing to accelerate.

For Andheri, Ashutosh Ghagre was the pick of the bowlers with figures of 2/21, while Tendulkar, Dube, Ajay Mishra, Musheer, and Prasun Singh claimed a wicket apiece.

Brief scores:

Semifinal 2: North Mumbai Panthers 148 in 20 overs (Abhigyan Kundu 40, Anish Chaudhery 33; Tushar Deshpande 4/21) lost to MSC Maratha Royals 152/7 in 19.5 overs (Chinmay Sutar 62 not out, Ayaz Khan 32; Pravesh Pal 3/27) by 3 wickets.

Semifinal 1: Aakash Tigers MWS 150/7 in 20 overs (Jay Bista 35, Sarfaraz Khan 34; Ashutosh Ghagre 2/21) lost to Arcs Andheri 151/5 in 18.3 overs (Shivam Dube 45 not out, Divyaansh Sksena 34; Ajit Yadav 2/23, Shams Mulani 2/23) by 5 wickets.

Nadeem stunned the world by winning the gold medal in the Javelin event of the Paris Olympics two years ago, throwing the spear to a new Olympic record distance of 92.97 meters.

Nadeem showed pleasure at the allocation of the budget, a source told www.telecomasia.net. "Let it come to an official announcement, but I have been told about this, and this will be a great boost for the sports complex, which will be aimed at producing future champions," Nadeem told Telecom Asia Sport.

Nadeem stressed the need for uplifting facilities. "Who can know better than me what facilities mean," he said. "I have been witnessing how Neeraj and other athletes train and have physically seen their facilities. So, this facility will go a long way in helping us progress and produce more champions."

The academy will be named Arshad Nadeem-Shahbaz Sharif High Performance Sports Academy and will be developed at the Pakistan Sports Complex. The estimated cost of the project is around 2.85 billion PKR, a figure Nadeem hoped would be raised in a year.

As per details, a state-of-the-art academy to train elite athletes across 10 disciplines, which includes Javelin, Squash, Swimming, Shooting, and Wrestling. The Punjab government is constructing a Rs. 53 million sports stadium in Nadeem's hometown of Mian Channu, which will also help groom Javelin players.

"We need to give international-level facilities to our athletes if we want to produce champions like India, China, Japan, and other Asian countries have done," Nadeem was quoted as saying in the report.

After performing Hajj, Nadeem is back to training with the aim to win at the Commonwealth Games (July 23 to August 2, Glasgow) and Asian Games (September 19 – October 4). Arshad Nadeem was forced to withdraw from the 2023 Asian Games in Hangzhou due to a chronic right knee injury, with Chopra defending his title. Nadeem, though, will defend his title.

He won the men's javelin gold medal at the 2022 Commonwealth Games in Birmingham, setting a new Games record with a mammoth throw of 90.18 meters, famously securing the top spot and becoming the first South Asian to cross the 90-metre barrier.

Mysuru, June 11 (IANS) Riya Jadon, who turned professional this season, was the standout performer on the opening day of the 7th Leg of the Women’s Pro Golf Tour at the Jayachamaraja Wadiyar Golf Club in Mysuru on Thursday. The teenager, who is barely 17, closed the first day with two birdies to card 3-under 67 and take the pole position.

The Gurugram golfer, who trains at the DLF Golf Academy, was one stroke ahead of the experienced Tvesa Malik, a Hero-supported golfer who carded 68. Anvvi Dahhiya and Vidhatri Urs were the only other golfers to come under par with 69 each at the Par-70 layout.

Two others, Amandeep Drall and Karishma Govind, shot even par 70 each.

Riya, who won the IGU Pune Ladies Championship in November 2025, turned pro earlier this season and finished Tied-third at the third leg in Oxford Golf Resort, Pune, when Tvesa Malik emerged winner. Riya opened the day with a birdie before she bogeyed the sixth and birdied the seventh to turn in 1-under. On the back nine, she parred the first seven holes and closed birdie-birdie.

Tvesa also opened with a birdie but suffered back-to-back bogeys on the fourth and the fifth to go one-over. She hit back with three birdies on the back nine for a 68.

Both Anvvi Dahhiyya and Vidhatri Urs had three birdies against two bogeys each for scores of 69.

Amandeep had four birdies, but she dropped a double bogey and two bogeys, one of which came on the 18th. Karishma had three birdies and three bogeys. They were tied fifth.

Neha Tripathi, Ananya Garg, Durga Nittur, and amateur Ananyaa Sood were tied for seventh at 71 each.

Among the well-known names lying further down were Vani Kapoor (72) in T-11, amateur Zara Anand, and Seher Atwal with 73 each in T-16. Mannat Brar (76) was T-30.

Three-time winner this season, Ridhima Dilawari had a disappointing start with 77 that included three bogeys and two double bogeys.

Karan’s remarkable innings became only the second century in the history of the league, following Gaurav Chauhan’s 103 off 55 balls in Season 2. His explosive knock formed the backbone of Siliguri Strikers’ imposing total of 231/2 in 20 overs, while Sudip Chatterjee played an important supporting role with a well-made 58 off 42 deliveries.

In reply, Adamas Howrah Warriors never managed to build sustained momentum and were bowled out for 158 in 19.2 overs. Shakir Habib Gandhi top-scored with a brisk 40 off 20 balls but received little support from the rest of the batting order.

With the ball, Siliguri continued their dominance as Akhilesh Yadav returned figures of 3/19, Shivamm Bharati claimed 2/21, and Karan capped off a memorable outing by picking up 2/29 to seal a comprehensive victory.

En route to his record-breaking innings, Karan wrote several records to his name on Thursday:

Highest individual run in Bengal T20 League history- 145 (64)

Most sixes in an innings - 14

Most sixes in a season - 22

Most runs in an over - 32 runs (15th over against Writtick Chatterjee).

Records by Servotech Siliguri Strikers on Thursday:

Most sixes in a team’s innings, Siliguri: 16

Highest Team Total- Siliguri- 231/2

The Bengal T20 League is a franchise-based T20 cricket competition organised under the aegis of the Cricket Association of Bengal (CAB). Now in its third season, the league features eight city-based franchises representing the breadth of West Bengal - Adamas Howrah Warriors, Novus Royals Purulia, Kolkata Royal Tigers, Murshidabad Kings & Kueens, Rashmi Nes Medinipur Wizards, Servotech Siliguri Strikers, Shrachi Rarh Tigers, and Sobisco Smashers Malda â€" competing across men's and women's competitions. Men's matches are held at Eden Gardens, Kolkata, with women's matches at the JU Salt Lake Campus, Kolkata.

Brief scores:

Servotech Siliguri Strikers vs Adamas Howrah Warriors

Servotech Siliguri Strikers: 231/2 (20 overs)

Adamas Howrah Warriors: 158/10 (19.2 overs)

Result: Servotech Siliguri Strikers won by 73 runs

The awards have been conceptualised as a platform to honour current and former athletes, coaches, technical officials, mentors, state associations, sponsors, and all other stakeholders whose contributions have played a vital role in India's growing success on the global athletics stage.

Most of India's leading current and former athletes are expected to be part of the event, making it a significant gathering for the Indian athletics fraternity and a celebration of the sport's rapid rise in the country. Such initiatives will play an important role in boosting the morale and confidence of Indian athletes, especially young and emerging talents, while also helping create a stronger culture of recognition and inspiration within the sport.

The ceremony will honour excellence across 10 award categories, including Lifetime Achievement Awards, Best Athlete (Male & Female), Best Coach, Best Technical Official, Best State Association, and Best State Supporting Athletics.

AFI President Bahadur Singh Sagoo said, "Indian athletics has witnessed a lot of growth over the last few years, with our athletes delivering strong performances on the global stage. The Indian Athletic Awards are a celebration of not only medal winners, but also the coaches, officials, mentors, associations, and institutions that work tirelessly behind the scenes to strengthen the sport in the country. We look forward to honouring individuals who continue to inspire the next generation of athletes."

AFI Senior Vice President Anju Bobby George said: "This awards ceremony serves to honour the commitment and resilience demonstrated at all levels of Indian athletics. From promising newcomers to established champions and their vital support networks, every effort plays a crucial role in fostering a robust sporting culture. Indian athletics is poised for an exhilarating chapter, and these awards will pay tribute to the individuals who are instrumental in shaping this journey."

Olympic and World Championships medallist Neeraj Chopra said: "To boost the morale and confidence of young Indian athletes, initiatives like the Indian Athletic Awards are extremely important. Recognising and celebrating the hard work of athletes, coaches, and support staff motivates the entire sporting ecosystem and inspires the next generation to dream bigger and perform better for the country."

The awards to be presented during the evening include:

Best Male Athlete of the Year: 2025

Best Female Athlete of the Year: 2025

Best Coach of the Year: 2025

Life-time Achievement Athletics Award (3 Awards)

Best State Association of the Year: 2025

Best Technical Official of the Year: 2025

Best State Supporting Athletics

Organisation supporting Athletics

Partner supporting Athletics

The trophy unveiling ceremony was attended by KSCA President Venkatesh Prasad, KSCA Honorary Secretary Santosh Menon, Maharaja Trophy KSCA T20 Governing Council Chairman M.S. Keshava, KSCA Official Spokesperson Vinay Mruthyunjaya, franchise owners, office bearers, and other distinguished guests of the KSCA.

Speaking at the event, Rahul Dravid highlighted the role of the Maharaja Trophy KSCA T20 in creating opportunities for emerging cricketers and praised KSCA's efforts in strengthening the state's cricketing pathway.

"The Maharaja Trophy is a very important tournament. Having myself been involved in the IPL for many years, I know for a fact that it is a tournament that is followed by a lot of IPL teams. There will be scouts who come to the games live, but many of them will watch it on television as well. The scores, statistics, and data from these matches are watched very closely, and it really helps a lot of these players get into the IPL."

KSCA President Venkatesh Prasad reflected on the significance of the tournament and its continued contribution to Karnataka cricket.

"The Maharaja Trophy KSCA T20 continues to provide an important platform for young players to showcase their abilities, gain valuable experience, and take significant steps forward in their cricketing careers. We are proud to offer a pathway that inspires the next generation of champions and contributes to the continued growth of cricket across Karnataka."

Honorary Secretary, KSCA, Santosh Menon, also mentioned three key changes to the playing conditions for the 2026 edition of the Maharaja Trophy KSCA T20. The tournament will retain the Impact Player rule, with teams required to submit their playing XI before the toss, to emphasise the role of all-rounders.

The competition will also adopt a provision whereby runs will not be awarded if a batter is dismissed off a free-hit delivery, rewarding bowlers for delivering a legal wicket-taking ball after a no-ball. In addition, if an on-field dismissal is subsequently overturned and the batter is found to be not out, any runs completed during the play will be restored to both the batter and the batting team.

M.S. Keshava, Chairman, Maharaja Trophy KSCA T20 Governing Council, also announced that tickets for the Mysuru leg of the tournament will go on sale from 3:00 PM on June 12. The tickets will be available digitally through the District by Zomato platform, with prices ranging from ₹100 to ₹250 to ensure the matches remain accessible and affordable for fans.

Earlier this month, the Maharaja Trophy KSCA T20 Season 5 Player Auction saw the six franchises — Bengaluru Blasters, Mysore Warriors, Hubli Tigers, Gulbarga Mystics, Shivamogga Yodhas, and Coastal Kings Mangaluru — finalise their squads for the upcoming season.

The tournament will be played across Mysuru, Hubballi, and Bengaluru from June 20 to July 12. Mysuru will host 12 matches from June 20 to 25, before the action shifts to Hubballi for a further 12 matches from June 27 to July 3. Bengaluru will then stage 10 matches from July 5 to 12, including Qualifier 1, the Eliminator, Qualifier 2, and the Final, as the six franchises battle for the coveted title.

Anas Khan is the son of a caddy.

Category A: Khan extends staggering advantage

​Following his first-round hole-in-one, overnight leader Anas Khan showed absolutely no signs of slowing down in Boys' Category A (15â€"18 years). Khan put together a masterful, disciplined level-par round of 72 to extend his command over the field, building a massive 8-stroke cushion heading into the next phase of play.

​The biggest movement on the leaderboard came from Ranveer Singh Dhupia. Staging an incredible second-day comeback, Dhupia carded an exceptional level-par 72 of his own, catapulting himself straight into second place. Ayan Dubey sits alone in third position, keeping himself in the hunt with a two-day combined score of 154*.

​In Girls' Category A, local favourite Ayesha Gupta mounted an excellent charge. Shaking off the tough layout, she carded a brilliant 3-over par round to seize total control of the division, opening up a comfortable 6-stroke advantage over her closest competitors.

​Category B: Pandey braves the wind

​The narrative flipped dramatically in Boys' Category B (13â€"14 years) as gusty, swirling winds swept across the Lodhi Course. Chaitanya Pandey showcased immense tactical composure, firing a resilient 2-over par round to break away from the field. His poise under pressure earned him a 3-stroke lead over overnight leader Aditya Misra, setting up a thrilling duel for the final rounds.

​Sub-Juniors set Peacock Course ablaze on opening day

​Thursday marked the highly anticipated opening round for the younger bracketsâ€"Category C (11â€"12 years), Category D (9â€"10 years), and Category E (Below 9 years)â€"staged on the tight and technical Peacock Course.

​Category C (11â€"12 Years)

​Boys: Mohd. Rehan navigated the 9-hole layout beautifully, shooting a sharp 2-over par to claim a narrow 1-stroke lead over Shan Alvi. Chandigarh’s Viraj Sehgal remains hot on their heels in third place.

​Girls: A dead-heat emerged at the top of the leaderboard, with Aaradhya Rawat locked in a tense tie with Unnati Singh for the lead after carding a 4-over par 66. They are closely pursued by Chandigarh’s Arushi Sharma, who finished just two shots back with a 68.

​Category D (9â€"10 Years)

​Boys: Priyansh Jain put on a clinic, shooting an exceptional level-par round to command the top spot. Yashaswin Sanghi holds second place at 2-over par, followed closely by Leyan Pal at 3-over par.

​Girls: The division is a mirror image of intensity, with Aarya Ganguly and Naaysha S. Sinha sitting in a dead tie for the lead at 3-over par, with Suhani Chandra securely holding the third spot.

​Category E (Under 9 Years)

​Boys: Jordan Savio George set the pace early, grinding out an impressive 1-over par round to secure a slim 1-stroke lead over Keeon Aggarwal. A three-way logjam features Siddhik Chaturvedi, Aprateem, and Naksh Malhotra all tied for third.

​Girls: Manasvi Rathor fired a flawless level-par performance to bag a 1-stroke advantage over a surging Aadya Dayal, who carded a fighting 1-over par. Devyani Dhull currently holds third place after carding a 4-over par.

The tournament is being staged at the iconic Delhi Golf Club, widely regarded as one of Asia’s finest golfing venues and the home of many of India’s most prestigious golf championships. The club has a rich history of hosting leading international and national events and was the venue for the inaugural DP World India Championship last year, a landmark tournament that attracted some of the biggest names in world golf, including Rory McIlroy and Tommy Fleetwood.

India, the 50-over World Cup winners, had a mixed build-up to the 12-team T20 World Cup. They lost to South Africa 4-1 before losing to England 2-1. In the warm-up games, India outsmarted the West Indies but lost to England.

"I think these two warm-up games were a good exposure to all of us. We could use this, actually, to express our game plans in the middle. Bowlers could go out there and express their game plans, and batters also. They went inside they tried out their plans.

"See, whenever we, the Indian team, play any game, the first intention is to win the game. Second intention is to give exposure to almost all the players who we think are going to participate in the World Cup," said Salvi in a video posted on bcci.tv. on Thursday.

India are in Group 1, dubbed as 'Group of Death', alongside six-time winners Australia, South Africa, Bangladesh, Pakistan, and debutant the Netherlands. "I think these two games gave us the chance to go out there and express ourselves. In the West Indies game, we won comfortably. We were defending 180 runs, and we defended it successfully.

"Here also, if you see 170 in a T20 game, we chased down that many when we came as close as getting to 166. It was a good fight back shown by the girls. Each and every segment, whether it was power play or middle overs or slog overs, I thought the bowlers actually operated really well. In the end, we fell short by 5 runs, but still, I thought it was a good fight back shown by the girls.

"From the individual perspective, I think Shreyanka had a brilliant two games. I mean, in both games, she performed really well. Radha getting those two games and getting her over under her belt, and in the first game itself, she got some wickets at a good economy rate. I thought it was a good confidence booster for us. I think Kranti was brilliant," added Salvi.

Elaborating on gains from the batting side of things, Salvi said, "From the batting perspective, if you ask me, Bharti was someone who used the West Indies game to the fullest. She got her runs under her belt. Today, if you see Richa, the way she batted was excellent. I mean, she almost got us the game. A lot of positives were there in the last two games.

"From the preparation point of view, it's brilliant. We played a three-match series against England. That was fantastic. Then we got a few days in Cardiff, and then these two couple of games against the competitive sides, I thought it was a good learning curve for all of us.

"Majorly, from the preparation and acclimatisation point of view, the game plans that suit these conditions, you get used to these conditions. I thought that was brilliant. That exposure was brilliant. I think all the girls, I think they are ready for the challenges ahead."

London, June 11 (IANS) Surrey wicketkeeper‑batter Kira Chathli has been named captain of England A for the upcoming women's series against India A, which will feature three T20s and three 50‑over matches to be played in late June and early July.

Kira, who recently earned her first call‑up to the senior England squad, will lead a side that includes three players capped at full international level - Jodi Grewcock, Ryana MacDonald‑Gay, and Charis Pavely. Several others who have impressed in domestic cricket, The Hundred, and England Women U19s are also picked.

The team will be coached by National Lead Batting Coach Jon JJ Lewis. "The India series will be another test of where this very talented group of players is at. Earning selection for an A side is proof you're on the right path, but the next challenge is scoring runs or taking wickets consistently in domestic cricket and pushing for senior selection.

"A series against another nation is always a positive thing, and I'm sure we'll learn a lot from it. I'm delighted for Kira, I'm sure she'll look forward to leading the group, and I know she'll take a lot from it," he said in an ECB statement on Thursday.

England A will play three T20s - on June 20 and 23 at County Ground in Northampton and on June 25 at Ambassador Cruise Line Ground in Essex. It is followed by three 50‑over fixtures, beginning on June 28 at The County Ground in Sussex and concluding with back‑to‑back games at The Cooper Associates County Ground in Taunton on July 1 and 4.

England Women A T20 squad: Kira Chathli (captain), Grace Ballinger, Jodi Grewcock, Emma Jones, Ryana MacDonald-Gay, Ella McCaughan, Kalea Moore, Charis Pavely, Davina Perrin, Grace Potts, Grace Scrivens, Sophia Smale, and Alexa Stonehouse

England Women A 50-over squad: Kira Chathli (captain), Grace Ballinger, Jodi Grewcock, Ella McCaughan, Flo Miller, Charis Pavely, Davina Perrin, Charley Phillips, Grace Potts, Grace Scrivens, Chloe Skelton, Sophia Smale, and Alexa Stonehouse

--IANS

nr/bsk/

London, June 11 (IANS) England men's managing director Rob Key said there is "no rush" to take a call on Ben Stokes' future as an England player and remained non-committal about him being the captain, while adding that he's also considering enforcing a complete alcohol ban on the side.

Stokes and Gus Atkinson were not made available for selection for the second Test against New Zealand, starting at The Kia Oval next week, after the pair were involved in a nightclub altercation in the early hours of Monday morning following the team's 115-run win in the series opener at Lord's and broke a midnight curfew.

The confrontation also featured Saracens rugby union player Totoa Auvaa. "Can Ben captain again? I think we've just got to let that play out. The decision, as I look forward, is about what's best for the team and what's best for Ben as well. I haven't got an answer for that at the moment, to be honest. It's still very raw, certainly for Ben, Brendon (McCullum, head coach), myself, and the ECB.

"Ben has been through a range of emotions, as you would in this situation. A lot of people have had phone calls (where) you're just in disbelief, then you get angry. There's a load of things, and I'm still not sure I'm over those at the moment.

"Time is probably the best thing for all of us. Nobody wants to make any rash decisions, whether that's on Ben's side or the other end. We'll take the next step when we get to that," Key told reporters in a press conference on Thursday.

Asked specifically on Stokes' future as England's Test captain, Key replied, "I'm not saying that. At this point in time, it has not crossed my mind to get that far ahead. As far as sacking, or any of that stuff, we haven't got anywhere close to being that far in the process."

Further talking about contemplating banning alcohol in the national set-up, Key explained, "I'm trying to give myself a bit of time, but do we need to look and say, have they (the rules) actually been strict enough. Even when they win a game of cricket, is it now a time when there's just no alcohol at any time and at any stage? The players now have to show the public that they can be trusted. At this point, it's hard to say they can.

"It's not just about the protocols; in the conditions of employment, there are several ways you're expected to behave as an England cricketer. We don't want our players out late at night in alcohol-related incidents.

"I don't think they've become a national embarrassment. I think that Stokes and McCullum are (one of) the most successful coach and captain partnerships we've had. So I think that's far too strong a word."

Key also weighed in on the decision to hand the captaincy reins back to Joe Root temporarily, while overlooking vice‑captain Harry Brook, who had himself been fined and warned following a nightclub scuffle last November.

"We just thought this was too big a job at this stage for Harry to take on. Ultimately, when English cricket's in a hole, Joe Root is the man that we ask to dig us out of it. Whether that's on the field or off the field. We're incredibly lucky to have him. And when I spoke to him about whether he would consider this, he didn't hesitate."

All those interested can watch matches which will be broadcast on Zee Network, and also some matches on DD Sports.

The opening match between Mexico and South Africa will be broadcast from 00:30 IST on June 12, while other matches will be played at 01:30 am, 02:30, and 06:30 IST. The quarterfinals will be shown between July 10 and 12, while the semifinals will be telecast on July 15 and 16, with the final slated for July 20 -- all three matches starting at 00:30 IST.

Football's biggest showpiece event, the FIFA World Cup 2026, is set to commence on June 12 (IST) with fans across the world set to witness 48 teams fight it out for the trophy for the first time in the history of the game.

The multinational tournament will be hosted jointly by Mexico, Canada, and the United States of America and will feature a total of 104 matches in an expanded tournament.

The expanded format introduces 12 groups of four teams each, replacing the previous structure of eight groups. The top two teams from every group, along with the eight best third-placed sides, will advance to the knockout stage, creating a new Round of 32 before the traditional Round of 16.

For the viewers from India, there was a deadlock regarding the broadcast of the tournament in the country. However, that deadlock is over now, and the Indian audience can also watch the fixtures.

Where to Watch FIFA World Cup 2026 on TV in India?

The FIFA World Cup 2026 will be shown on the newly launched Unite8 Sports network on television. Four channels - Unite8 Sports 1 (Hindi commentary), Unite8 Sports 1 HD (Hindi commentary), Unite8 Sports 2 (English commentary), and Unite8 Sports 2 HD (English commentary) will broadcast matches.

DD Sports has announced that it will show select matches for free. It will broadcast the opener between Mexico and South Africa for free. Apart from that, the quarterfinals, semifinals, and final will be available on DD Free Dish.

Where to watch the live streaming of all the FIFA World Cup 2026 matches in India?

Fans can watch the live streaming of the FIFA World Cup on mobile, laptop, or smart TV on the Zee5 app.

The Groups

Group A: Mexico, South Africa, Republic of Korea and Czechia

Group B: Canada, Switzerland, Qatar, Bosnia and Herzegovina

Group C: Brazil, Morocco, Scotland, Haiti

Group D: USA, Paraguay, Australia, Turkey

Group E: Germany, Ecuador, Ivory Coast, Curaçao

Group F: Netherlands, Japan, Sweden, Tunisia

Group G: Belgium, Egypt, Iran, New Zealand

Group H: Spain, Uruguay, Saudi Arabia, Cape Verde

Group I: France, Senegal, Norway, Iraq

Group J: Argentina, Austria, Algeria, Jordan

Group K: Portugal, Colombia, DR Congo, Uzbekistan

Group L: England, Croatia, Ghana, Panama

The 10th edition of the Women's T20 World Cup, to be staged in England from June 12 to July 5, is set to be the biggest in the tournament's history, with the field expanding to 12 teams. The event will feature 33 matches across seven venues, and Pakistan have been drawn in Group 1 alongside six‑time champions Australia, arch‑rivals India, South Africa, Bangladesh, and debutant Netherlands.

"We have worked hard over the past few months, playing a series against Zimbabwe and facing Ireland and the West Indies. This is a young and energetic group that can rise to the occasion at the World Cup.

"You prepare your entire life to play in a World Cup, and it is an opportunity everyone looks forward to. Our focus is on playing a fearless and positive brand of cricket. We need to believe in our hard work, and the results will follow," Wahab said in a PCB statement on Thursday.

Seam-bowling all-rounder Fatima will lead Pakistan in a second straight T20 World Cup, after having captained the side at the 2024 edition in the UAE. She enters the tournament in red‑hot form after smashing the fastest half‑century in just 15 balls in women's T20Is during Pakistan's 3‑0 sweep of Zimbabwe in Karachi last month.

Pakistan's build‑up to the tournament included away T20Is in South Africa, a home series against Zimbabwe, training camps, and a tri‑series in Ireland featuring the hosts and West Indies from May 28 to June 4. The side also played warm‑up matches in Derby against Sri Lanka on June 6 and Scotland on June 9, which they lost.

"Our group has some of the finest sides in the tournament, and this is a good opportunity for us to start on the right track, with things getting easier as the event progresses. We have a combination of youngsters and senior players, and I am confident that, given the hard work these players have put in, if they play to their potential, they will deliver a top-four finish," added Wahab.

After opening their campaign against India, Pakistan will stay in Birmingham to meet South Africa on June 17 before travelling to Southampton to face Bangladesh on June 20. They take on Australia at Headingley in Leeds on June 23, with their final group match against the Netherlands scheduled for June 27 in Bristol.

On conditions in England, Wahab said the squad had already taken steps to adapt. "The wickets in the UK are usually green and seaming. We have acclimatised to the conditions through the tri-series in Ireland and the two warm-up matches in Derby.

"A World Cup is a stage where the whole world is watching you. The team has to work hard and believe it can go the distance, and we will give our best with a fighting spirit to perform well in this tournament."

Chowrasia (70-62-69), the nephew of Indian golfing stalwart SSP Chawrasia, entered the final day with a two-shot advantage following his bogey-free eight-under 62 in round two and closed the week at nine-under 201 to lift the trophy.

The victory marked the Kolkata golfer's second title of the season and his second consecutive win on the DP World PGTI NexGen, having also triumphed at the Alpha Sports Academy Golf Championship hosted by Patna Golf Club in March before the DP World PGTI NexGen tour's two-month break.

Starting from the par-4 first hole in the shotgun format, Chowrasia endured a shaky beginning with a bogey on his opening hole. However, he quickly regained control with birdies on the par-5 third and par-4 fifth. In a roller-coaster final round that featured five birdies and four bogeys, Chowrasia managed to stay ahead of the chasing pack and seal the title.

Reflecting on his victory, Chowrasia said, "It feels amazing to win back-to-back tournaments. It was a little nerve-racking out there today, especially on the back nine, but in the end, it was worth every shot. I'm really happy to get another win and continue the momentum."

He added, "The start wasn't ideal, but I stayed patient and recovered well with birdies on the third and fifth. There were a few momentum swings during the round, but I managed to make some important up-and-downs and stay focused under pressure."

The win earned Sunit Chowrasia INR 3,17,875 and propelled him from sixth to the top of the DP World PGTI NexGen Order of Merit with season earnings of INR 6,86,518 from four starts.

Speaking about moving to the top of the standings, Chowrasia said, "I honestly wasn't aware that I had moved to the top of the rankings. It's nice to hear that, but there is still one more tournament left, and my focus remains on continuing to play good golf and taking it one event at a time."

The win also marked another milestone in Chowrasia's comeback from injury. "Coming back from injury has been a long journey. When I look at where I was three years ago and where I am today, it's a completely different situation and mindset. I'm grateful to be healthy again, competing well and seeing the hard work pay off," he said.

Chowrasia also revealed that one of the first calls after his victory was with his famous uncle SSP Chawrasia, an Olympian and six-time international winner, who has played a key role in supporting him through his career.

"I spoke to my uncle, SSP Chawrasia, shortly after the round, and he was very happy for me. He's currently playing in Morocco and took time out to congratulate me. He has always been a great source of support, especially during the difficult periods when I was dealing with injuries. It means a lot to have his encouragement and to be able to share this win with him," Chowrasia said.

The 41-year-old Pawan Kumar of Delhi (67-68-69) also returned a one-under 69 to climb from overnight third to finish runner-up at six-under 204. Pawan earned INR 2,67,875 and moved to 10th on the NexGen Order of Merit with season earnings of INR 2,98,563 from two appearances.

Lucknow's Rajesh Kumar Gautam (68-69-68) secured a solo third-place finish at five-under 205. The 37-year-old local professional collected INR 1,70,375 and climbed to second on the NexGen Order of Merit with season earnings of INR 6,81,060. Gautam now trails Chowrasia by just INR 5,458, setting up a fascinating battle for the top spot heading into the final event of the season.

Delhi's Ajay Baisoya (68-70-68) registered his best result of the season, finishing fourth at four-under 206 in only his second appearance of the year. Another Delhi golfer, Wasim Khan (71-68-68), finished fifth at three-under 207.

The winner of the 2026 DP World PGTI NexGen Order of Merit will earn an exemption on the main tour for the 2027 season. The tour now moves to Varanasi for the inaugural INR 25 lakh DP World PGTI NexGen – Varanasi 2026, scheduled to be played from June 16-18.

Launched in 2025, the DP World PGTI NexGen Tour serves as the developmental circuit of Indian professional golf. The tour aims to provide increased playing opportunities to professionals, strengthen the competitive depth of Indian golf, and expand the sport's footprint by hosting events in Tier 2 and Tier 3 cities across the country.

Dambulla, June 11 (IANS) India A’s imposing 349 proved to be insufficient as Afghanistan A sealed a dramatic four-run victory via DLS method in a rain-hit 50-over match in the 'A' Teams Tri-series on Thursday, thanks to a blistering opening stand and composed knocks from skipper Imran Mir and Bahir Shah.

India A, sent in to bat first on a surface expected to aid seamers, made an assertive start through Vaibhav Sooryavanshi, who smashed 44 off 22 balls. His opening burst set the tone before Prabhsimran Singh kept the tempo high with a fluent effort at the top to top-score with 84.

Despite Priyansh Arya’s early exit, India remained well placed as captain Tilak Varma (66) and vice-captain Ruturaj Gaikwad (66) consolidated with a steady 78-run stand, while keeping the Afghanistan bowlers at bay.

India accelerated again in the final overs through Suryansh Shedge, whose 40 off 27 balls injected urgency into the innings. Handy contributions from Anukul Roy and Vipraj Nigam pushed India to 349/9 in a revised 49 overs. Afghanistan A’s Abdullah Ahmadzai was the standout bowler, claiming five wickets and stopping India A from crossing 360.

Chasing a revised target of 294 from 38 overs after multiple rain interruptions, Afghanistan began aggressively. Hassan Eisakhil’s 34 and his 63-run opening stand with Imran Mir ensured the chase began on a bright note. Though Arshad Khan and Anukul Roy removed Eisakhil and Khalid Taniwal, India A struggled to apply sustained pressure.

Mir anchored the reply with a composed 75 not out off 69 balls, while Shah counterattacked to hit 51 not out. Their 108-run century stand for the third wicket pushed Afghanistan A ahead of the DLS par score. With rain returning, Afghanistan A reached 173 for two in 25.5 overs, and persistent showers forced the abandonment, handing Afghanistan A victory under the DLS method.

Brief scores:

India A 349/9 in 49 overs (Prabhsimran Singh 84, Ruturaj Gaikwad 66, Tilak Varma 66; Abdullah Ahmadzai 5-68) lost to Afghanistan A 177/2 in 25.5 overs (Imran Mir 75 not out, Bahir Shah 51 not out; Anukul Roy 1-24, Arshad Khan 1-38) by four runs (via DLS method).

Moreno will be supported by Indian powerhouse, Sumit Kumar Roy, who have officially been named vice-captain of the team. Backed by KLO Sports, Hyderabad Heroes finished with a bronze medal in Season 1 of the Rugby Premier League and are looking to go for gold in Season 2.

"Season 1 with the Hyderabad Heroes was an extremely fulfilling experience and definitely a team that I take great pride in leading. We had a tremendous outing last season, but we have unfinished business in the Rugby Premier League. The responsibility of leading the team once again is special. Leading the team with Sumit Kumar Roy is a unique opportunity to learn different leadership styles with one goal, which is for the Hyderabad Heroes to go all the way," said Moreno at the jersey reveal event held in Hyderabad.

"Continuing with the Hyderabad Heroes is very special to me, and I am looking forward to an even more successful season this time around. The Hyderabad Heroes have always been extremely motivating and instrumental in the way I have grown as a player and a leader. Having the legendary DJ Forbes as the head coach is an honour, and every day during the season is a learning experience. As the home team, I hope to see the stadiums packed with rugby lovers and fans," said Sumit Kumar Roy, vice-captain, Hyderabad Heroes.

Moreno has been chosen among the 14 best rugby players in the Sevens Series and currently plays for the Spanish national team. Sumit Kumar Roy has established himself as one of the most valuable Indian players in the Rugby Premier League (RPL), which was backed by the fact that he was the highest bid for a player in the auction earlier this year. Sumit Kumar Roy has also captained the Indian Rugby side and will be leading alongside Moreno for the second season in a row.

"The Hyderabad Heroes is another feather in the cap for KLO Sports, and both Sanjay and I are excited for the upcoming season. Season 1 was exciting, and we look forward to an even better Season 2, which will be conducted in Hyderabad. As the home team, we are confident of inspiring the people of Hyderabad to fall in love with Rugby. We have immense faith in the way our squad has been shaping up and in the leadership of our coach, DJ Forbes, who needs no introduction. This league reflects everything that KLO Sports stands for in terms of inclusivity and opportunity, and we are optimistic about the future of Rugby in India. Credit to GMR and Rugby India for making this happen," said Srinath Chitoori, co-owner, KLO Sports.

"We are proud to announce our returning captain from last year, Manu, who led the team well and will bring the continuity we need around our performance and set the standard for the team this year. Sumit has been a rising star for Indian rugby, and as a returning Hero, I want him to lead our Indian players. It's an opportunity for us to help develop him and his game for Indian rugby on and off the field. The squad is finally fully assembled, and I'm looking forward to the challenge of going one better than we did last year, but also putting on a strong performance for our city and something the team can be proud of," said DJ Forbes, Head Coach, Hyderabad Heroes.

Owned by KLO Sports, the Hyderabad Heroes have an extremely strong lineup with some of the biggest names in international rugby and strong Indian representation. The squad includes Manuel Moreno, Kevin Wekesa, Regan Ware, Maurice Longbottom, Francisco Cosculluela, Wolfram Hacker, Ravuama Seruvakula, Diego Ardao, Taitaifono Senio Tavita, Sambit Pradhan, Sumit Kumar Roy, Shivam Shukla, Rajan Rawat, and Muhammed Anes K. The head coach for Hyderabad Heroes is the legendary World Rugby Hall of Famer, DJ Forbes.

Hyderabad Heroes unveiled their official jersey for Season 2 in the presence of Srinath Chitoori, Co-Owner, Hyderabad Heroes, Rahul Bose, President, Rugby India and League Commissioner, Rugby Premier League, Sujoy Ganguly, Vice President & CMO, GMR Sports, DJ Forbes, Head Coach, Hyderabad Heroes, Manuel Moreno, Captain, Hyderabad Heroes, and Sumit Kumar Roy, vice-captain, Hyderabad Heroes. The Hyderabad Heroes begin their campaign against Bengaluru Bravehearts in the first match of the league on June 16, 2026.

New Delhi, June 11 (IANS) India will open their 2026 Women’s T20 World Cup campaign against Pakistan at Edgbaston on June 14, as one of cricket’s most-watched rivalries takes centre stage in a global women’s tournament. The results, though, have been oneâ€'sided in recent years.

India have won 13 of 16 T20Is against Pakistan, including a sixâ€'wicket victory at the 2024 T20 World Cup in Dubai. In Women’s T20 World Cup meetings, India lead 6â€'2 across eight clashes. All contests have come in global or continental events â€" the Women’s T20 World Cup, Asia Cup, Asian Games, and Commonwealth Games â€" with no bilateral series staged in this phase.

Edgbaston’s large South Asian community, with strong Indian and Pakistani representation, is expected to generate intense local interest as both teams begin their campaigns. Nasser Hussain, the former England captain, addressed questions around the big clash as ICC Women's T20 World Cup expert in a JioStar Media Day. Excerpts:-

On how Yastika Bhatia has fared as a number three batter so far

From recent times, what I have seen recently, I actually think the other way round. Yastika, since I have seen her in England, her strike rate is excellent, she is a real boundary hitter, I quite like her at number 3 after the dynamic Shafali and Smriti Mandhana, and then you have Jemimah and Harmanpreet after, who can steady the ship if you need to, or kick on, and then you have Richa Ghosh to even kick on even more.

So I like Yastika at 3, from what I have seen of her in England in particular, she has been smashing it everywhere, she hasn't made that big score, she has been getting like 30 and 20 balls, 30 and 25 deliveries. My only issue is that since her injury and her operation, it was a major operation. She has not been that mobile between the wickets; she has been run out twice in the England bilateral series and then in the field as well.

So that is my only concern, especially if she is batting with Jemimah, for example, and Jemimah is very quick between the wickets, you may just have to keep an eye on that. But I quite like her at 3, and I quite like batting depth that everyone then moves down one, and it gives you a long batting line-up.

Who has the edge in the India-Pakistan clash?

Firstly, there is obviously a great rivalry across any sport between India and Pakistan, but you would say recently in men's and women's cricket, it has not been particularly close, especially in ICC events, and the rivalry has not yet kicked off to the extent that it has in the men's game. But it is still India vs Pakistan, and it is a format that obviously can cause upsets.

We have seen in the warm-up games, and even before that, sides like Scotland, Ireland, and the Netherlands are playing some very good cricket. India will be confident but obviously wary that it only takes Fatima Sana to come off, have a good day, and they could be in trouble, but if you are asking me a prediction, India will be too strong.

In general, the way Indian women's cricket has grown - 50 over World Cup win, WPL, everything that is happening in women's cricket in India compared to Pakistan cricket, where their players don't play in all the franchise tournaments around the world. So, they have stayed at a level whereas India have jumped at least a level or two if not more.

On the importance of six-hitting to win the competition

Six hitting is absolutely vital. The women's game has changed from a touch game. So, you think of Meg Lanning, a wonderful touch player who stroked the ball to the boundary. One of the greatest I have ever seen, and now you see the power hitters that are around. They just clear the rope and back themselves to hit sixes.

So, whichever team hits the most sixes will probably win the tournament. But also, I always keep an eye on our monitor in the commentary box on the dot ball percentage. There is no point in having five dots and then a six. You are going to run a ball, and that won't win you anything. So, that is another thing that coaches and analysts will keep an eye on.

What is the dot ball percentage of that team? So, the combination of those. That is why running between the wickets is very important. That is why I mentioned Jemimah and the way she runs between the wickets. The good balls are going for one, two, and three, and your bad ball is going for four and six. It is very difficult as an opposition captain to control that. So, yes, six-hitting is vital. But you have got to keep an eye on that dot ball percentage.

On whether Deepti Sharma is an automatic starter in the playing eleven

For me, yes. Going into a big game in a big tournament, I would want Deepti Sharma. You want people to go into battle with you, streetwise people, and Deepti is absolutely that, and I mentioned Smriti Mandhana as well. I saw a question that was relayed to me about what the surprise will be. It's not a surprise, but the two have had quite a few periods recently, and this World Cup has come as a perfect time for them.

It’s because once you're playing in a World Cup, everything else, no one will remember what happened in the bilaterals. No one will remember what happened in South Africa, Australia, whatever. It will be, how did you go in this World Cup? And certain people raise their game for big tournaments, and Deepti Sharma is absolutely that.

She has been out of form since the South Africa series and has gone a long period without getting wickets. Then in the fourth game, she got runs and wickets, and she's done okay against England in the bilaterals. She knows England very well, having played the Hundred here and a lot of games here for India.

So she knows the conditions very well. They may not see it differently, but if you're asking me, my opinion is that I would want Deepti Sharma as one of the first names in a big game. Thinking of a knockout semi-final or a final in a big game, I would want Deepti Sharma to be one of them. But look how she went in the 50-over World Cup, and I would want Deepti on my side.

On what will be the key factor in deciding the winner of the India-Pakistan clash?

Pakistan will have to play above the level they're playing at the moment. They had a good series against Zimbabwe, and their strike rates all went through the roof. But with all respect to Zimbabwe, that attack won't be like the Indian attack. So if Pakistan are just par, and they're par, I'm talking about, then India will be too good.

To beat India and some of those sides, and I'm not just talking about Pakistan or the group - I'm talking about England, South Africa, New Zealand, India, Australia. To beat those sides, you have to play above your par. So they cannot play timid cricket. If you get 120 runs, India are just going to knock that off easily.

So they have to play fearless cricket, and they have to have the cricketers to be able to do that, and they have to put India under a bit of pressure. Everyone knows they're playing for India. The expectation is there now in that group as well. With India being in a group with South Africa and Australia, this is a must-win game, and you could argue a must-win game, and make sure your net run rate is good as well, with what might come ahead.

So if you can suddenly, in the first game, catch India a bit cold and put them under a bit of pressure, then India are thinking, ‘Crikey, we can't lose this one. We've still got to play South Africa and Australia.’ Then you never know. But as I said right at the start, I fancy India to win.

On whether India might have to take an extra batter or bowler to compensate for Amanjot Kaur’s absence

Personally, I would play the extra batter. I would pack my batting. I would use Shafali - remember in the 50-over World Cup final, Shafali came in. She wasn't even in the original squad, and then there she is, getting runs and wickets. I would use Shafali as my safety valve bowler, as in the women's game, four of the top six, seven bowlers are spinners.

England have three spinners in the top six. So spin to win in women's cricket, especially T20 cricket. I would play all my spinners, not all of them, but if you're asking me about the balance, a couple of seamers and all my batting. But if you do that, you have to go hard. If you go back to the 50-over World Cup, India at the start had the same problem. They played the extra batter, but were still being a bit cautious.

Then suddenly it clicked, and they went harder, and they backed themselves. Jemimah got that magnificent hundred in the semifinal. Shafali gave them another bowling option in the final. If you are going to go with the extra batter, you have to get an above-par score because you know your bowling's a little bit light. You can't just plod along to par. You have to get an above-par score and play fearless cricket. What I've seen of India on this trip so far, they have done that.

Catch all the action from ICC Women's T20 World Cup 2026, June 12-July 5, LIVE on JioHotstar and Star Sports Network.

The appointment comes after O'Neill guided Celtic to a remarkable domestic double last season, leading the club to the Scottish Premiership title and Scottish Cup triumph. Celtic said the experienced manager would continue to lead the team as it prepares for domestic and European challenges in the upcoming campaign.

O'Neill returned to Celtic in October last year on an interim basis, nearly two decades after his highly successful first spell at the club between 2000 and 2005. He stepped in following Brendan Rodgers' departure and oversaw eight domestic matches, winning all of them, while the team's only defeat during that period came against Midtjylland in the Europa League. He later made way for Wilfried Nancy in December before being brought back to lead the side through the latter stages of the season.

The 74-year-old capped his latest stint by steering Celtic to their 56th league title. The club won its final seven league matches to secure the championship before completing the campaign with Scottish Cup success.

In a statement, O'Neill said he was honoured to continue in the role and credited the players and staff for their contribution to last season's achievements.

"It is once again a great privilege for me to continue as Celtic manager. Last season will live long in all our memories, and being part of that success has only increased the desire to achieve more," O'Neill said. "We know Celtic can never stand still on past achievements, so our focus is already on moving forward together and delivering more success for the club and our supporters," he added.

Celtic interim chairman Brian Wilson welcomed the appointment, describing O'Neill's leadership and experience as key factors behind the club's recent success. "I warmly welcome Martin's re-appointment and look forward to more of the same leadership, inspiration, and success he has delivered for the club. The achievements that he and the team secured in the season just gone have created a great platform for the one that lies ahead.

"This is the start of a busy summer, and we will ensure that we are in the best possible position to compete, with Martin back at the helm."

O'Neill remains one of the most successful managers in Celtic's history. During his first spell in charge, he delivered nine major trophies, including a domestic treble in his debut season in 2000-01, and guided the club to the UEFA Cup final in Seville in 2003.

Skipper Harmanpreet Kaur will have plenty of options to choose from when India face Pakistan in their opening match of the tournament at Edgbaston on June 14. In the absence of seam-bowling all-rounders Amanjot Kaur and Kashvee Gautam, the bowling combination's make-up will be India's biggest headache.

Deepti Sharma, Sree Charani, Arundhati Reddy, and Renuka Singh Thakur look like automatic picks, while Radha Yadav, Shreyanka Patil, and Nandni Sharma are also in the mix. "I don't think the issue is with India's batting. I think throughout their tour here, they have batted pretty well.

"But just their formula with the ball, and they can't protect 170 or they are going for 170, 180, and then they are under pressure a little bit. So, I like their fearless batting and batting depth. I like Richa Ghosh as their finisher. So, I think it is more in the field and with the ball. How do they go? Do they use Shafali as their 6th bowler or 5th bowler?

"Who do they give the new ball to? I think they are the issues that are most…Not concerning, but if you are asking me what is happening in team meetings, it is the combination with the ball that they will be thinking about the most," Hussain, the ICC Women's T20 World Cup expert, told IANS in a JioStar Media Day on Thursday.

At the same time, India will lean on a powerful batting line‑up at the Women's T20 World Cup, with captain Harmanpreet, Smriti Mandhana, Shafali Verma, Yastika Bhatia, Jemimah Rodrigues, and Richa Ghosh all capable of scoring at a healthy rate, though the current ODI World Cup holders are still a bit more dependent on their openers.

"I noticed it straight away. I did the game at Chelmsford, the first game of the T20 series, and straight from ball one, and they lost a couple of early wickets. I think they lost two wickets in the first over, and then usually Jemimah sort of knocks it around, and she came in smashing it, and Yastika came in smashing it.

"So, definitely they are trying to feel it. It is just the way T20 cricket is going. It is just like that. If you have got batting depth, you see in the IPL with the impact player because people now realise they can clear the rope and hit the boundary in the WPL, there are so many boundary hitters now, and I think they are playing," added Hussain.

He also feels Richa, who struck a sensational 68 in the warm-up clash against England in Cardiff to break a run of lean scores, would be central to India's ambitions in defeating Pakistan and getting their campaign off to a flying start. Richa has had a strike rate of 163 in T20Is post the 2024 Women's T20 World Cup, which is the best amongst batters participating in the tournament and making 350 runs in that phase.

"Richa is absolutely vital for India. We saw inside, because Deepti's batting in South Africa just fell away a little bit, it became Richa or nothing. It can't be like that because that puts too much pressure on her. But to have a finisher like her (is immense) - any great T20 side, men or women, have great finishers. You have starters, Smriti Mandhana, or whoever. But you need a finisher that will get you 40 off 20 balls, and Richa is one that can definitely do that," he said.

Hussain further acknowledged that Richa's role comes with inherent risk and inconsistency, but added that the match-winning elements in her batting make her indispensable in the Indian batting line-up. "There'll be periods where it's a really odd role because there'll be periods where she gets out. She came in as a replacement or whatever the other day.

"They retired someone out (Yastika), and she came in. She was out on the first ball, I think. There'll be times when you'll go, 'What is the fuss all about'? She's gone two games where she slogged it up in the air and got out. Then in the third game, you will see exactly what the fuss is all about. I saw it in the 50-over World Cup, the way she came in and thought of Nadine de Klerk as well (in Visakhapatnam).

"Those sorts of cricketers that can come in at the end and finish an innings. As an opposition captain, I'm thinking, right, I'm keeping India down to 150 here, we're going really well, and she comes in and makes it 180-190. Just the momentum as you're walking off that field, you think, 'Hmm, that one inning has gotten above par.' She is brilliant. Her keeping is very good as well. She has a massive, massive future ahead of her. Every side would love to have her on their side," he added.

On the question of Bharti Fulmali, who was brought in to complement Richa's explosiveness lower down the order, but is yet to make an impact or get a sustained run in the playing eleven, Hussain was equally emphatic in his support for her.

"I like Fulmali. She is a proper hitter of a cricket ball. In this format, they are worth it as that's gold dust, and that really is because if you can hit sixes and fours as she does, I don't know if I can get all that. But I say play the extra batter, and that might be the extra two batters. They may play her - who knows? But I like her. She won't let you down. She'll hit sixes and fours at the end there," he said.

Catch all the action from ICC Women's T20 World Cup 2026, June 12-July 5, LIVE on JioHotstar and Star Sports Network.

Among the pre-tournament favourites, England boast a formidable squad packed with international experience and match-winners across all departments. The hosts will rely on the likes of Danni Wyatt-Hodge, Alice Capsey, Amy Jones, Charlotte Dean, and youngster Lauren Bell as they seek to launch their title bid on a positive note. England won the inaugural edition of the tournament but failed to replicate the success in the next eight editions. They exited from the Group Stage in 2024.

Sri Lanka, meanwhile, arrive with ambitions of causing an early upset and making a statement on the biggest stage in women’s cricket. Skipper Chamari Athapaththu will once again be central to the team’s hopes, while Harshitha Samarawickrama and Kaushani Nuthyangana are expected to shoulder key responsibilities.

Historically, England have enjoyed the upper hand in meetings between the two sides. The teams have faced each other 12 times in international cricket, with England emerging victorious in 10 encounters, while Sri Lanka have managed two wins. Their rivalry dates back to June 2009, with the most recent clash taking place in September 2023.

When: Friday, June 12, 11:00 PM IST

Where: Edgbaston Stadium, Birmingham

Where to watch: The England vs Sri Lanka match will be broadcast on Star Sports channels, with JioHotstar live-streaming the game.

Squads:

England: Nat Sciver-Brunt (c), Lauren Bell, Alice Capsey, Tilly Corteen-Coleman, Charlie Dean, Sophia Dunkley, Sophie Ecclestone, Lauren Filer, Dani Gibson, Amy Jones, Freya Kemp, Heather Knight, Linsey Smith, Issy Wong, Danni Wyatt-Hodge

Sri Lanka: Chamari Athapaththu (c), Hasini Perera, Vishmi Gunarathne, Harshitha Samarawickrama, Imesha Dulani, Nilakshika Silva, Kaveesha Dilhari, Hansima Karunarathne, Kaushini Nuthyangana, Sugandika Dassanayaka, Nimasha Madushani, Kawya Kavindi, Malki Madara, Mithali Ayodhya, Chethana Vimukthi.

The shooting events will take place from September 17 to October 3, 2026, at the Aichi Prefectural General Shooting Range. Although all chosen athletes met the tough qualification standards set by the Ministry of Youth Affairs & Sports (MYAS), the final list consists of 30 competitors, 15 men and 15 women, due to the strict dynamic quota limits imposed by the Games' Organising Committee.

After thorough deliberations and a careful event-by-event review, the Committee selected a specific group of athletes who can compete in multiple disciplines. This strategy allows India to maximize participation in all events while keeping strong medal chances in both individual and team events. The approved double starters include Vidarsa K. Vinod, Rudrankksh Balasaheb Patil, Manu Bhaker, and Esha Singh.

The final squad demonstrates a deliberate balance of current form, international results, team makeup, and medal prospects. The Selection Committee, in collaboration with the High Performance team, aimed to maximize India's competitiveness in all shooting disciplines and secure the best possible chance for podium finishes at the Games.

Speaking of the squad selected for the Asian Games, NRAI President Kalikesh Singh Deo said, "Selecting this team was a challenging task given the exceptional depth and quality of talent in Indian shooting today. Given the 30-athlete cap for a programme that accommodates participation across 36 event slots, the Selection Committee undertook a detailed event-wise evaluation to ensure that the final squad provides India with the strongest possible representation and the best opportunity for competitive success across disciplines."

"The final squad reflects the strength, depth, and versatility of Indian shooting. We are confident that this team will represent India with distinction and make the nation proud in Aichi-Nagoya," he added.

India's shooters have maintained strong showings on the international stage in recent months, emphasising the country's increasing prowess in rifle, pistol, and shotgun events. Lately, Indian athletes have achieved multiple podium placements at the recently finished ISSF World Cup. This was exemplified by Esha Singh's gold medal and world-record achievement in the women's 25m pistol at the Munich World Cup. Additionally, Suruchi Singh and Esha secured a notable gold-silver finish in the women's 10m air pistol, demonstrating the depth and consistency of India's shooting program as they prepare for the Asian Games.

The final contingent comprises 12 shotgun shooters and 18 rifle/pistol shooters. I am running a few minutes late; my previous meeting is running over.

Rifle & Pistol Squad

10M Air Rifle Men: Parth Rakesh Mane, Himanshu Dhillon, Rudrankksh Balasaheb Patil

10M Air Rifle Women: Elavenil Valarivan, Sonam Uttam Maskar, Vidarsa K Vinod

50M Rifle 3 Positions Men: Aishwary Pratap Singh Tomar, Niraj Kumar, Rudrankksh Balasaheb Patil

50M Rifle 3 Positions Women: Ashi Chouksey, Vidarsa K Vinod, Tilottama Sen

10M Air Pistol Men: Kedarling B. Uchaganve, Gaurav, Kamaljeet

10M Air Pistol Women: Suruchi, Esha Singh, Manu Bhaker

25M Rapid Fire Pistol Men: Anish

25M Sports Pistol Women: Esha Singh, Manu Bhaker, Rahi Sarnobat

10M Air Rifle Mixed Team: Parth Rakesh Mane, Elavenil Valarivan

10M Air Pistol Mixed Team: Kedarling B. Uchaganve, Suruchi

Shotgun Squad

Trap Men: Kynan Chenai, Ahvar Rizvi, Shapath Bharadwaj

Trap Women: Neeru, Manisha Keer, Aashima Ahlawat

Skeet Men: Anantjeet Singh Naruka, Bhavtegh Singh Gill, Mairaj Ahmad Khan

Skeet Women: Parinaaz Dhaliwal, Raiza Dhillon, Maheshwari Chauhan

Birmingham, June 11 (IANS) The ICC Women’s T20 World Cup 2026 gets underway with hosts England taking on Sri Lanka in a Group A clash at the Edgbaston Stadium in Birmingham on Friday. Both teams will be eager to begin their campaign on a winning note, with valuable points at stake in the race for the semifinals.

England enter the tournament as one of the favourites to lift the trophy, bolstered by home conditions and a squad packed with experience. Led by Nat Sciver-Brunt, the hosts possess a formidable lineup featuring Heather Knight, Amy Jones, Alice Capsey, Sophie Ecclestone, and Lauren Bell. Their confidence has also received a boost after a successful warm-up campaign, including a victory over India.

The strength of England lies in their balance. They have explosive batting options in the top and middle orders, while their bowling attack offers a mix of pace and spin, capable of adapting to different conditions.

Sri Lanka, meanwhile, will look to spring an early surprise. Much of their hopes will rest on captain Chamari Athapaththu, whose aggressive batting can single-handedly change the course of a match. The experienced opener remains Sri Lanka’s biggest match-winner and will be crucial if they are to challenge the hosts. Support from players such as Harshitha Samarawickrama, Vishmi Gunaratne, Kavisha Dilhari, and Sugandika Kumari will also be vital.

However, Sri Lanka will need contributions across departments to compete against a strong England side. The key battle could be between the hosts’ overall depth and the Lankans’ ability to produce individual brilliance. While the hosts appear stronger on paper, World Cup openers often bring added pressure and unpredictability.

Playing in familiar conditions and backed by home support, England start as clear favourites. However, Sri Lanka will be hoping Athapaththu and company can deliver a performance capable of unsettling one of the tournament’s leading contenders.

When: Friday, June 12, 11:00 PM IST

Where: Edgbaston Stadium, Birmingham

Where to watch: The England vs Sri Lanka match will be broadcast on Star Sports channels, with JioHotstar live-streaming the game.

Squads:

England: Nat Sciver-Brunt (c), Lauren Bell, Alice Capsey, Tilly Corteen-Coleman, Charlie Dean, Sophia Dunkley, Sophie Ecclestone, Lauren Filer, Dani Gibson, Amy Jones, Freya Kemp, Heather Knight, Linsey Smith, Issy Wong, Danni Wyatt-Hodge

Sri Lanka: Chamari Athapaththu (c), Hasini Perera, Vishmi Gunarathne, Harshitha Samarawickrama, Imesha Dulani, Nilakshika Silva, Kaveesha Dilhari, Hansima Karunarathne, Kaushini Nuthyangana, Sugandika Dassanayaka, Nimasha Madushani, Kawya Kavindi, Malki Madara, Mithali Ayodhya, Chethana Vimukthi.

The Bangladesh Cricket Board (BCB) unveiled separate squads for the three-match T20I contest against Australia in Chattogram and the subsequent one-off Test against Zimbabwe in Harare, with several notable inclusions and omissions reflecting both immediate priorities and long-term planning.

Leading the headlines is the return of frontline quicks Taskin, Nahid, and Mustafizur to the T20I squad. The trio's comeback significantly strengthens Bangladesh's pace department after Taskin and Rana were rested during the previous T20I series against New Zealand earlier this year.

Their return comes at the expense of several seam-bowling options. Tanzim Hasan Shakib, Ripon Mondol, and Mohammad Saifuddin have all missed out despite featuring during the New Zealand series, as selectors opted to restore their first-choice attack ahead of the challenge posed by Australia. The pace unit will also include Abdul Gaffar Saqlain, who was part of the squad against New Zealand but did not feature in any of the matches.

Away from the T20 format, the most intriguing development is the elevation of Towhid Hridoy into Bangladesh's red-ball plans. The aggressive batter has built considerable international experience in white-ball cricket since debuting in 2023, featuring in 52 ODIs and 59 T20Is, but has yet to play a Test match.

His inclusion in the 15-member squad for the Zimbabwe Test reflects the selectors' desire to inject greater attacking intent into the batting line-up. Despite relatively limited first-class exposure, Hridoy has shown enough promise to earn consideration, scoring three centuries in 16 first-class appearances.

Hridoy's responsibilities have also increased in the T20I setup. Chief selector Habibul Bashar confirmed that the batter will serve as vice-captain under Litton Kumar Das after Saif Hassan stepped down from the role to concentrate on his own performances.

The Test squad also features uncapped medium-pacer Robiul Haque, who continues to impress on the domestic circuit. Robiul has accumulated 107 wickets and 620 runs in 32 first-class matches and is viewed as a player capable of developing into a genuine pace-bowling all-rounder. Experienced seamer Khaled Ahmed has also been recalled.

Meanwhile, several established names have been left out of the Zimbabwe Test as part of Bangladesh's workload-management strategy. Mehidy Hasan Miraz, Shoriful Islam, Taskin Ahmed, and Nahid Rana have all been rested, with team management continuing to rotate players across formats during a packed international calendar.

Bangladesh's immediate focus will be the three-match T20I series against Australia, scheduled for June 17, 19, and 21 in Chattogram. The Test contingent will then depart for Zimbabwe on June 23 ahead of the one-off encounter in Harare, which begins on June 28.

With experienced quicks returning to spearhead the T20I attack and Hridoy receiving his first opportunity in the longest format, the squad announcements signal Bangladesh's attempt to balance present-day competitiveness with the development of future all-format options.

T20I squad against Australia: Litton Kumar Das (c), Parvez Hossain Emon, Tanzid Hasan, Mohammad Saif Hassan, Shamim Hossain, Towhid Hridoy (vc), Nurul Hasan Sohan, Mahedi Hasan, Nasum Ahmed, Rishad Hossain, Shoriful Islam, Mustafizur Rahman, Taskin Ahmed, Nahid Rana, Abdul Gaffar Saqlain.

Test squad against Zimbabwe: Najmul Hossain Shanto (c), Shadman Islam, Mahmudul Hasan Joy, Tanzid Hasan, Mominul Haque, Mushfiqur Rahim, Litton Kumar Das, Taijul Islam, Nayeem Hasan, Khaled Ahmed, Ebadot Hossain, Hasan Mahmud, Towhid Hridoy, Amite Hasan, Robiul Haque.

The 43-year-old was appointed in November on a three-and-a-half-year deal to replace Vitor Pereira but was unable to stop Wolves from being relegated to the Championship after eight years in the top tier.

Wolves finished bottom of the Premier League, 21 points from safety. Edwards also failed to impress with the side, as he was able to win only five matches out of 30, which resulted in his early exit.

“This has been an extremely difficult decision. Following the end of the season, we undertook a thorough review of every aspect of the football operation. This process involved careful consideration of many factors and extensive reflection on what we believe is required to help the club progress over the coming years," Wolves Executive Chairman Nathan Shi said in an official statement.

“Our decision was not about character, professionalism, or dedication. It was about determining what we believe gives Wolves the strongest opportunity to move forward from a sporting perspective. While there were positive signs and areas of progress, we ultimately concluded that a different football direction would better align with the style, identity, and level of competitiveness we want to establish at the club," he added.

Nathan also thanked Edwards for his hard work with the club and informed the fans that the process of appointing a new coach is underway.

"The club would like to place on record its thanks to Rob and his departing staff for their professionalism, commitment, and hard work throughout their time at Compton Park, and wish them every success in the future," he added.

"The process of appointing a new head coach is already underway, with the club focused on identifying a leader who can help deliver the next phase of Wolves’ sporting development. Further updates will be provided in due course," Nathan concluded.