Ahead of the World Test Championship final against India, Australian pacers playfully discussed Josh Hazlewood’s new moniker, ‘Hazel God,’ bestowed upon him by Royal Challengers Bengaluru fans after a stellar IPL season. Hazlewood, in top form with 22 wickets, is poised to potentially replace Scott Boland in the starting XI.
Steve Smith anticipates a challenging contest against South Africa’s formidable pace attack, spearheaded by Kagiso Rabada and Marco Jansen, in the World Test Championship final at Lord’s. Despite Australia being favorites, Smith acknowledges the Proteas’ strength. He also reflects on his own successful record at Lord’s, while noting the unique challenges the ground presents.
Former Pakistan pacer Aaqib Javed aims to revolutionize the National Cricket Academy (NCA) in Lahore, aspiring to set a global benchmark for cricket academies. Assuming the role of NCA director, Aaqib plans a structured system within six months, extending to regional branches for grooming talent and providing rehabilitation.
Ahead of the World Test Championship final against Australia, South African players are showering praise on Kagiso Rabada, with many calling him the “best bowler in the world.” Kyle Verreynne highlighted Rabada’s ability to rise to the occasion on the big stage. David Bedingham emphasized Rabada’s past success at Lord’s and his leadership role.
Shreyas Iyer’s captaincy has propelled Sobo Mumbai Falcons into the semi-finals of the Mumbai T20 League 2025. The 30-year-old has balanced youth and experience, leading the team to four wins in five matches. Iyer emphasized the league’s role in nurturing young talent, providing a platform beyond club cricket.
The Portuguese skipper was in tears after his side beat Spain in the final of the UEFA Nations League on Sunday. The 40-year-old watched on from the sidelines as his team prevailed over the defending champions in the penalty shootout. After finishing the game 2-2 after extra-time, Portugal won the shootout 5-3.
Carlos Alcaraz triumphed over Jannik Sinner in the longest French Open final in history, winning 4-6, 6-7, 6-4, 7-6, 7-6 after five hours and 29 minutes. Down two sets and three championship points, Alcaraz staged a stunning comeback, capturing his fifth Grand Slam title at just 22. This first major final in their rivalry delivered a generational classic.
Robin Uthappa believes young talents Priyansh Arya, Prabhsimran Singh, and Vaibhav Suryavanshi are strong contenders for India’s T20 World Cup squad. Their explosive IPL performances have created a selection dilemma, with Shubman Gill, Yashasvi Jaiswal, Abhishek Sharma and Sanju Samson also in contention. Uthappa emphasizes using remaining T20s to finalize the best 15, prioritizing fitness alongside form.
After coming up against defending champions Spain in the final, Cristiano Ronaldo’s Portugal forced the game into penalties after finishing the game 2-2 in normal time. Ronaldo scored the equalizer for his side as they beat Luis de la Fuente’s men 5-3 on penalties to lift their second crown in the competition.
Carlos Alcaraz showcased remarkable resilience at the 2025 French Open, retaining his title against Jannik Sinner in a gruelling five-set final. Alcaraz overcame a two-set deficit and saved multiple match points to secure his fifth Grand Slam title. The epic battle, marked by exceptional skill and drama, will be remembered as a classic.