India’s chess prowess shone at the Women’s World Cup, where Divya Deshmukh secured a remarkable victory, inspiring fellow players like Gukesh. He emphasized the importance of success in both men’s and women’s chess for India, expressing excitement for the upcoming World Cup to be hosted in India.
Tymal Mills, formerly a fast bowler for Royal Challengers Bengaluru, has broken new ground by launching an OnlyFans account, clarifying it will focus on cricket and lifestyle content, not adult material. Mills aims to connect directly with fans, offering insights into the life of a cricketer beyond the usual media soundbites.
India’s meticulous pitch roller strategy at The Oval became a major talking point, influencing batting conditions throughout the Test. The team’s choice of light roller on the second morning contrasted with England’s use of the heavy roller, impacting scoring opportunities. India’s field settings and overall approach seemed heavily influenced by the roller’s effects, leading to questions about their strategy.
The Indian Olympic Association’s fact-finding commission has called for the immediate termination of the Boxing Federation of India’s interim committee, citing violations of the national sports code.
England’s Harry Brook and Joe Root mounted a fierce counterattack, scoring centuries and turning the Oval into a battleground. India’s Mohammed Siraj and Prasidh Krishna fought back, claiming crucial wickets to keep India in contention. With the series hanging in the balance, India needs four wickets on the final day to secure a 2-2 draw.
In a surprise twist, India’s 2025 World Junior Champion Pranav Venkatesh has earned a wildcard entry to the prestigious 2025 FIDE Grand Swiss after defeating Kazakhstan’s GM Kazybek Nogerbek 1.5–0.5 in an unpublicised ‘Asian Wildcard Match’ in Al Ain, UAE. Pranav, who narrowly missed qualifying by rating, now joins an elite field chasing a spot in the 2026 Candidates.
R Ashwin has criticized Shubman Gill’s captaincy and Gautam Gambhir’s coaching during the Anderson-Tendulkar Trophy series, citing a “lack of game awareness.” Ashwin pointed out missed opportunities to utilize spinners effectively, particularly Washington Sundar, which he believes contributed to England’s advantage.
Inter Miami captain Lionel Messi is sidelined indefinitely due to a right leg muscle injury sustained during a Leagues Cup match against Necaxa. Medical tests confirmed the injury, and his return depends on his progress and response to treatment. Messi’s absence poses a challenge for Miami’s Leagues Cup campaign and their position in the Eastern Conference.
Nasser Hussain praises the feisty Anderson-Tendulkar Trophy series, highlighting memorable moments and the competitive spirit between the teams. He appreciates the series’ watchability and impact on Test cricket. However, Hussain criticizes the pitches for being too batting-friendly and the inconsistent scheduling with odd gaps between matches, suggesting a more balanced approach.
Stuart Broad criticized officials for halting play early on Day 4 of the fifth Test between India and England due to bad light, with England needing 35 runs to win and India requiring three wickets. Broad felt the decision was lazy, denying supporters a finish. England closed at 339 for 6, chasing 374, with Prasidh Krishna taking three wickets.