After Magnus Carlsen’s table-slam went viral following a loss to D Gukesh, R Praggnanandhaa called it an instinctive reaction — not ideal, but good for chess visibility. While praising Carlsen as the best, Praggnanandhaa reflected on his own breakthrough year, having won three major titles and rising to World No. 4 as he eyes a Candidates spot.
Lhuan-dre Pretorius etched his name in South African cricket history by becoming the youngest to score a Test century, surpassing Graeme Pollock’s record. His remarkable debut innings of 153 against Zimbabwe featured resilience after a controversial not-out decision and a shaky team start.
Shubman Gill’s captaincy is under scrutiny following India’s dramatic Test defeat in Leeds, despite dominating earlier phases of the match. Critics like David Lloyd point to tactical inexperience, while Alastair Cook urges patience, drawing parallels with Ben Stokes’ initial leadership challenges.
Smriti Mandhana celebrated her maiden T20I century, a remarkable 112, while captaining India against England at Trent Bridge, securing a 97-run victory. She acknowledged the format’s challenges for her natural game and her ongoing efforts to enhance power-hitting. Mandhana also expressed confidence in fellow opener Shafali Verma’s potential for a significant innings soon.
Despite repeated warnings to fix governance issues, little or no progress has been made; Governing body expects USAC directors to resign ahead of annual conference or face sanctions
The Austrian Grand Prix faced a delayed start due to Carlos Sainz’s car malfunction, leading to his eventual retirement. Lando Norris triumphed after a fierce battle with McLaren teammate Oscar Piastri, who finished second. A first-lap collision forced Max Verstappen’s retirement, shaking up the championship standings, with Piastri now leading Norris.
Jasprit Bumrah and Sanjana Ganesan humorously recounted their initial encounter during the 2019 World Cup, where Sanjana mistakenly believed Bumrah was avoiding her due to a presumed girlfriend or wife. Bumrah clarified that his shy nature led to the initial awkwardness. Eventually, they connected, married in 2021, and welcomed their son in 2023.
AB de Villiers has expressed his surprise at reports suggesting Jasprit Bumrah will be rested for some of the ongoing Test series against England. De Villiers questioned the decision, drawing parallels to how South Africa managed Dale Steyn’s workload, prioritising his availability for crucial Test matches.
Gautam Gambhir, India’s head coach, has finally revealed the reason behind his serious demeanour. On The Kapil Sharma Show, Gambhir explained that he remains serious so others can smile, emphasising his focus and commitment to results. He also addressed his on-field confrontations, stating they are always for the country, not himself.
Keshav Maharaj achieved a significant milestone, becoming South Africa’s highest wicket-taking spinner in Test cricket during the ongoing match against Zimbabwe. He surpassed legends like Paul Adams and Hugh Tayfield, and breached the 200-wicket mark.