After denied debut in 5th Test, India pacer Arshdeep poses with family in London – see pic
India’s team selection for the final Test against England at The Oval sparked debate, especially regarding Arshdeep Singh’s continued absence despite regaining fitness. While Arshdeep remained patient, Kuldeep Yadav and Abhimanyu Easwaran also awaited their opportunities. Ultimately, India opted for a pace-heavy attack, reflecting the recent dominance of fast bowlers at The Oval, as they aimed to level the series.
Pakistan defeated West Indies by 14 runs in the first T20I, fuelled by Mohammad Nawaz’s game-changing three-wicket over and Saim Ayub’s impressive 57 runs. After posting 178, Pakistan restricted West Indies to 164-7, despite late hitting from Holder and Joseph. This loss extends West Indies’ struggles in T20Is, having lost 17 of their last 19 matches.
Chinese swimmer Yu Zidi, aged 12, has become the youngest athlete to win a World Championships medal, securing bronze in the 4x200m freestyle relay in Singapore. Yu also achieved fourth place in both the 200m butterfly and 200m individual medley finals.
Sunil Gavaskar has voiced concerns about Yashasvi Jaiswal’s batting technique after his recent dismissal in the fifth Test. Gavaskar highlighted flaws in Jaiswal’s footwork and shoulder positioning, impacting his ability to handle inswinging deliveries. India’s top order struggled, leaving them at 204 for 6, needing a lower-order fightback to post a competitive total.
The BCCI is considering a policy change regarding Jasprit Bumrah’s selection, potentially requiring him to be available for entire series due to challenges in planning his workload. Despite initial agreements, the team management faced difficulties managing Bumrah’s availability during the England tour. He is currently not part of the India XI for the fifth Test at The Oval.
Alexander Zverev marked his 500th ATP match win at the Toronto Masters, overcoming Matteo Arnaldi in three sets. Other players advanced to the fourth round, including Alex Michelsen, who upset Lorenzo Musetti, and Holger Rune. Casper Ruud also progressed, avenging his French Open loss to Nuno Borges, while Karen Khachanov defeated Emilio Nava.
In a thrilling Esports World Cup 2025 chess semifinal, Magnus Carlsen edged out Hikaru Nakamura 4–3, reaching the final after an Armageddon showdown. Nakamura, despite a strong King’s Indian Defense win, narrowly missed victory. Carlsen will now face Alireza Firouzja for the top prize, while Nakamura competes for third place.
AB de Villiers, at 41, showcased his brilliance in the World Championship of Legends semifinal, securing a thrilling 1-run victory for South Africa against Australia with a stunning last-ball run-out. Despite a quiet batting performance in the match, de Villiers has been a dominant force throughout the tournament, leading the run charts with two centuries.
The first day of the fifth England-India Test at The Oval favored England, with India struggling to 204/6 on a spicy, bowler-friendly pitch. Rain interruptions and inconsistent bowling, barring Gus Atkinson, added to India’s woes. Despite Karun Nair’s resilient fifty, aided by Washington Sundar, India’s assistant coach Ryan ten Doeschate hopes they can reach 300, praising Sai Sudharsan’s patient innings.
Indian cricketer Yuzvendra Chahal has addressed rumours linking him to RJ Mahvash after his divorce from Dhanashree Verma. He clarified he is not dating anyone and needs time to heal, expressing fear of future heartbreak. Chahal explained that photos with Mahvash were misinterpreted, leading to online trolling and false accusations against her.