Confederations unite for governance reform

UEFA, Concacaf, and the Asian Football Confederation (AFC) are collaborating to develop a new framework for the administration of global football. This initiative comes amidst ongoing disagreements with FIFA regarding its governance and recent decisions. The confederations have expressed concerns over what they perceive as a system of patronage within FIFA since Gianni Infantino assumed the presidency 10 years ago.

The three confederations have repeatedly called for an independent review of FIFA’s governance, particularly following the public disclosure of a plan to sell a portion of the World Cup. These calls have reportedly been disregarded by Infantino, leading the confederations to take independent action. They are now working on a policy document that outlines how the global governing body could evolve in the future.

Discussions among those involved are exploring fundamental questions about FIFA’s role, its structural organisation, and the governance model it should adopt. A significant aspect of these considerations is the financial distribution among member associations, with a focus on how best to utilise funds from FIFA’s substantial reserves.

Concerns over FIFA’s leadership and decisions

The joint efforts by the confederations stem from a perceived lack of accountability and transparency within FIFA’s leadership. A recent letter from FIFA to its Vice-Presidents and 211 Member Associations acknowledged procedural errors, which the confederations view as a failure of judgment rather than merely a communication issue. They highlight that a proposal was advanced on a compressed timeline without adequate consultation, limiting proper review by member associations.

The confederations argue that attempting to sell an interest in the FIFA World Cup represents a profound failure of judgment and a fundamental breach of trust. They also noted that FIFA’s commitment to present a report on these events to the FIFA Council is insufficient, advocating instead for a review conducted by a fully independent third party. They believe that FIFA’s administration should not be involved in conducting such a review.

Furthermore, a recent leadership meeting in Morocco, where only one elected official was present alongside FIFA-employed senior staff, has intensified these concerns. No FIFA Council members or Member Associations were invited to participate in this meeting. This event is seen as a continuation of a pattern of conduct that has led to the current tensions.

Potential future actions and boycotts

If Infantino does not engage with the proposed reforms, the new framework developed by the confederations could be adopted by a challenger in the upcoming presidential election. There is also a possibility that it could serve as a template for a breakaway organisation. Following a joint statement that called for “leadership that serves football, not seeks to command it,” UEFA, Concacaf, and the AFC have initiated preliminary discussions about organising new competitions if the standoff with FIFA’s leadership persists.

UEFA has maintained that its members could boycott the upcoming Under-20 Women’s World Cup unless FIFA promptly establishes an independent review of the World Cup sell-off situation. UEFA is also seeking legally binding assurances that such issues will not recur. Senior figures from European football are holding meetings in Salzburg, where the UEFA Super Cup final is scheduled, to reinforce continental unity in demanding changes at FIFA’s helm.

Victor Montagliani, the president of Concacaf, is considered a potential challenger to Infantino for the FIFA presidency, though his immediate focus is on his re-election as president of the North and Central American confederation next year. His previous statements, such as “leadership is not about power,” echo the sentiments expressed in the joint statement by the confederations.

Aleksander Čeferin, the president of UEFA, is expected to hold discussions with Nasser al-Khelaifi, the chair of European Football Clubs, to further solidify the continent’s stance on demanding leadership changes within FIFA.

UEFA continues to uphold its pledge to boycott FIFA competitions, as it has not received the desired assurances regarding the prevention of future issues similar to those that triggered the current crisis.

Source: uefa.com

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The future of FIFA President Gianni Infantino should be determined by an election, according to Patrice Motsepe, the head of the Confederation of Africa Football (CAF). This statement comes as several football federations have withdrawn their support for Infantino following criticism over his proposal to sell stakes in the World Cup to private investors.

Infantino has faced a wave of criticism for his plan, which involved offering substantial incentives to member associations that backed the proposal. The governing bodies of European football (UEFA), North and Central America (CONCACAF), and Asia (AFC) collectively increased pressure on Infantino through a joint letter. This letter stated that “trust is broken through deception, when an individual places himself above the collective that entrusted him with authority.” These organisations are reportedly seeking Infantino’s resignation before he can pursue re-election next March.

Despite this, Motsepe, who also serves as a FIFA vice president, maintains that the decision regarding Infantino’s leadership should be made through the ballot box. “If anybody has got any problem against anybody, whether it’s Gianni, whether it is anybody else, follow the process, follow the FIFA process, simple as that,” Motsepe told a news outlet on Thursday. He further elaborated, “If you want to take him out, go for elections; let the 211 member associations decide. Do that and the vote will express whether they’ve got confidence in him or not.” Motsepe stressed the importance of allowing the electoral process to proceed, noting that elections are scheduled for next year.

Reactions to the Privatisation Proposal

The concept of privatising aspects of football, such as the World Cup, has sparked considerable debate within the sport. UEFA has explicitly stated that “none of us are the owners of football,” while the fan organisation Football Supporters Europe and players’ union FifPro Europe have advocated for the sport to remain publicly owned. This pushback has occurred even with public support for Infantino from figures like US President Donald Trump.

Sports organisations, particularly in team sports, often operate as monopolies, with fans typically supporting a single club or national team. This structure can limit alternatives for committed fans, potentially giving sports organisations considerable leeway. Unlike other industries such as electricity or transport, where monopolies are heavily regulated to protect consumers, sports often lack such oversight. This absence of regulation can create opportunities for privatisation, which has yielded varying results in different sports.

For instance, Liv Golf, a professional golf tour established in 2022, aimed to disrupt the global golf industry by offering higher payouts to players compared to existing organisations like the PGA Tour and DP World Tour. However, Liv Golf has reportedly encountered financial difficulties. In contrast, Formula One saw a revival in its finances and viewership after private equity involvement and a partnership with a streaming service. The lifting of previous restrictions on drivers’ social media use also contributed to increased sponsorships and visibility.

Concerns Over Governance and Transparency

The potential for privatisation can impact various aspects of sport, from ticket prices, which might limit access for some fans, to participation fees at grassroots levels. This has led to fan protests, such as those seen in Germany in 2024 following the announcement of private investment into the Bundesliga, and in the UK in 2021 when plans for a European Super League were proposed. Fans often view their clubs as community assets, while owners may prioritise returns on investment, creating a conflict between profit generation and community benefit.

The criticism surrounding Infantino’s proposal has continued despite his apology and acknowledgement that the process could have been handled differently. The Football Association of Ireland (FAI) recently became the latest FIFA member to withdraw its support for Infantino. Following an FAI Board Meeting, the association rescinded an earlier letter of support, citing “significant concerns regarding governance, transparency and the lack of meaningful consultation.” The English FA and Welsh FA had previously withdrawn their backing for the 56-year-old Swiss president. Conversely, six Arab federations, including Qatar, Morocco, and Egypt, publicly supported Infantino on Thursday morning.

Motsepe was in Salzburg for the UEFA Super Cup on Wednesday, where he held discussions with UEFA President Aleksander Ceferin. UEFA has threatened to boycott the World Cup and Club World Cup in protest of Infantino’s plan. Motsepe stated that he is cautious about passing judgment on the various issues, emphasising that everyone has a right to be heard in a proper forum. He also noted that CAF had previously supported Infantino and claimed that the proposals for the World Cup sell-off talks would be submitted to FIFA members for final approval, suggesting no breach of rules.

The debate over who truly owns sport – fans or funders – highlights the tension between commercial interests and the community aspect of football. The UK’s Football Governance Act 2025, for example, introduced an independent regulator to ensure the financial sustainability of clubs for the benefit of fans and local communities. However, organisations may resort to privatisation if they face financial difficulties. In FIFA‘s case, with substantial financial reserves, UEFA has questioned the necessity of selling stakes, asserting that “Some things are simply too important to sell.”

The controversy underscores ongoing discussions about governance and transparency within global football, with the next FIFA presidential election scheduled for March next year.

Source: aljazeera.com

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Starc’s Historic Achievement

Mitchell Starc has made history in Test cricket, becoming the most successful left-arm bowler. He achieved this milestone by taking his 434th Test wicket, surpassing the previous record held by Sri Lankan spinner Rangana Herath.

The Australian pacer reached this significant landmark on Day 1 of the first Test against Bangladesh in Darwin. His record-breaking wicket came when he dismissed Shadnan Islam, securing his 434th scalp in Test cricket. Herath had previously held the record with 433 wickets.

Starc’s achievement marks a significant moment in his career and in the history of Test cricket, solidifying his place among the sport’s elite bowlers. His consistent performance has now placed him at the top of the list for left-handed bowlers in the format.

Australia’s Batting Struggles and Bangladesh’s Dominance

In the same match where Starc made history, Australia faced significant batting challenges. After electing to bat first, they were bowled out for just 198 runs in their first innings. This total represents their lowest-ever score against Bangladesh in Test cricket.

The Australian innings began with a 45-run opening stand between Travis Head, who scored 22, and Jake Weatherald, who contributed 23 runs. However, after this initial partnership, the team struggled to build momentum. Despite a notable effort from Steve Smith, who scored 71 runs off 109 balls, including seven fours and a six, the rest of the batting line-up faltered.

The collapse saw Australia sink to 74/4, and they were unable to recover, eventually being dismissed for 198. This score is lower than their previous lowest Test total against Bangladesh, which was 217 runs in Mirpur back in 2017.

Historic Day for Bangladesh Pacers

The first day of the Test was also historic for Bangladesh’s pace attack, particularly for Hasan Mahmud. Mahmud recorded the best-ever figures by a Bangladeshi bowler against Australia. His performance surpassed the previous best of 5/62 achieved by Rafique at Fatullah in 2006.

Mahmud’s impressive bowling display was instrumental in restricting Australia to their lowest Test score against Bangladesh. He now has three five-wicket hauls in 15 Tests, making him the second-most successful Bangladeshi pacer in terms of five-wicket hauls, trailing only Shahadat Hossain, who has four in 38 Tests.

With five-wicket hauls in India, Pakistan, and now against Australia, Hasan Mahmud is establishing himself as a formidable bowler, especially in away conditions. His ability to perform consistently in different environments highlights his growing influence in the Bangladesh bowling attack.

Taskin Ahmed Reaches Milestone

Adding to Bangladesh’s memorable day, Taskin Ahmed also achieved a significant personal milestone. He completed 300 international wickets across all formats, becoming the sixth bowler in Bangladesh cricketing history to reach this landmark.

Taskin’s spell of 2/55 contributed to his overall tally, bringing him to exactly 300 wickets in 204 matches. His career statistics include 13 four-wicket hauls and three five-wicket hauls, with an average above 28.

He joins an esteemed list of Bangladeshi bowlers who have achieved this feat. Ahead of him in Bangladesh’s all-time bowling charts are Shakib-Al Hasan with 712 wickets, Mashrafe Mortaza with 389, Mustafizur Rahman with 384, Mehidy Hasan Miraz with 369, and Taijul Islam with 302 wickets.

Source: m.rediff.com

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South African cricket star David Miller is aiming to win the 2027 ODI World Cup, which will be co-hosted by South Africa, Zimbabwe, and Namibia. Miller hopes to conclude his career with a major triumph on home ground. The tournament is scheduled for October-November next year and will feature a revamped format, including a preliminary stage, group stage, Super 7, and knockout rounds.

Miller, a 37-year-old white-ball specialist, has accumulated over 4,600 runs in 178 One Day Internationals (ODIs). He expressed his ambition to be part of the World Cup squad and contribute significantly. He views winning the trophy as a personal goal he wants to achieve late in his career.

Miller’s World Cup Ambition and Role as Finisher

Miller stated that making the 2027 World Cup team is not guaranteed, and he plans to focus on aiming to secure his spot and contribute effectively. He believes playing at home in front of local fans, in a place where he has played for many years, would make the experience particularly special.

David Miller takes pride in his role as a middle-order finisher, a skill he has developed throughout his career. He described batting in the middle order and staying until the end to finish games as requiring a certain mastery, which he has relished. He noted that he is still continuously learning but has had a long career in that department, particularly enjoying chasing innings.

The left-hand batter has also played 140 T20 Internationals (T20Is). His career highlights include an unbeaten 101 for Kings XI Punjab in the IPL 2013 against Royal Challengers Bangalore. He considers this knock his most rewarding, as it was his first IPL and first T20 hundred, achieved while chasing a score. He believes this innings helped establish his career.

Another memorable innings for Miller was a century against Australia in Durban, where he scored 118 not out while chasing. These two hundreds, scored under pressure, stand out in his memory. His favorite IPL moment was winning the title with Gujarat Titans in their debut season, as he plays to win.

Rabada’s Inspiration and Home Advantage

Fellow South African cricketer Kagiso Rabada also has his sights set on the 2027 World Cup. The fast bowler revealed that Wasim Akram’s match-winning spell in the 1992 World Cup final remains a moment that shaped his perspective on big-stage cricket. Rabada noted that Akram’s performance, where he took decisive wickets against England, exemplified what elite fast bowling can deliver under pressure.

Rabada, 31, believes that hosting the 2027 World Cup should provide the Proteas with freedom rather than create additional pressure. He stated that there is a lot more to the event with South Africa hosting it, and he does not feel the pressure to win it due to playing at home. He admired Akram’s intensity during the 1992 World Cup final, describing a bowler who appeared ready for the occasion.

The Proteas have reached the latter stages of recent ICC events, but the final step has often proved challenging. Rabada acknowledged that South Africa has shown they can compete in semi-finals and finals, but the remaining challenge is winning the decisive match. He expressed hope that he can produce a defining spell during the tournament on home soil. For now, his inspiration comes from a final played more than three decades ago.

The ICC confirmed that Afghanistan has secured direct qualification for the 2027 ODI World Cup.

Source: m.rediff.com

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Sanjog Gupta, the CEO of the International Cricket Council (ICC), has stated that the era of “randomly” scheduled bilateral series must conclude. He argues that countries cannot sustain cricket without appropriate context, culture, competition, and competitiveness, which demand substantial financial and non-financial investment. Gupta, who joined the ICC in July last year, believes that the One Day International (ODI) format can continue to thrive, with its future closely tied to the men’s and women’s ICC Cricket World Cups.

Gupta emphasised the necessity for cricket to concentrate on growth, issuing a warning that “if you’re not growing, you’re dying” in a world where attention is fragmented. He suggested that Test cricket, despite its prestige, requires reinvention to appeal to contemporary audiences, drawing comparisons to events such as Wimbledon in tennis and The Masters in golf. The ICC CEO highlighted the success of the World Test Championship in providing additional context to the longest format of the game. He also stressed the importance of optimal scheduling and marketing support for Test matches played outside the traditional “big three” cricketing nations.

Rethinking Bilateral Series and ODI Future

The ICC CEO’s remarks underscore a significant shift in thinking regarding the structure of international cricket. Gupta’s perspective is that the current approach to scheduling bilateral series is unsustainable for many cricketing nations. He noted that these series are decided exclusively by member boards, without direct intervention from the ICC, which primarily manages multi-national competitions like the World Cups and the World Test Championship. The boards also retain the sponsorship and media rights for these bilateral engagements.

Gupta maintains that the ODI format has a place within the sport’s product portfolio. He believes its survival and potential to thrive are “inextricably” linked to the men’s and women’s ICC Cricket World Cups. Discussions have reportedly taken place within the ICC about creating a dedicated window for the 50-over format in the period leading up to the World Cup, according to reports.

The four key elements that drive audience attention and affiliation—context, culture, competition, and competitiveness—are central to Gupta’s vision for cricket’s future. He argues that ODIs can not only survive but also flourish by focusing on these aspects. The format’s evolution, including the expansion of participation, is also a consideration.

Evolving Test Cricket for New Audiences

Gupta acknowledged that Test cricket holds significant prestige, legacy, and heritage. However, he cautioned that if these attributes are not made relevant and amplified, the format could become burdensome. He suggested that Test cricket needs to be presented in a way that appeals to new-age audiences, focusing on the experience for fans to ensure it remains a viable and appealing product.

The debate surrounding the sustainability of Test cricket has intensified, particularly as only India, England, and Australia are consistently able to financially support the longest format. Other full member nations face challenges in monetising Test matches. Gupta, a former head of sports at JioStar, indicated that cricket could learn from established events in other sports, such as Wimbledon and The Masters, by leveraging their heritage while adapting to evolving audience expectations.

He pointed to the World Test Championship Final as an example of how additional context can strengthen the format, noting that it is now an event of significance that did not exist seven years ago. Gupta stressed that the commercial viability of Test matches should be considered alongside their prestige and legacy, rather than allowing passion and pride to overshadow economic discussions. He believes this question is not solely for Test cricket but for all formats and events.

Gupta also highlighted the need for improved scheduling and presentation of Test cricket outside the three financially strongest cricketing nations. He stated that the ICC would continue to invest in enhancing the status, significance, and spectacle of cricket’s marquee events. He called for Test cricket to be scheduled optimally, with adequate positioning and marketing support, to ensure competitive standards and compelling matches for fans. This strategic scheduling, combined with a continuing narrative from the World Test Championship, is seen as crucial for building sustained interest.

While T20 cricket is considered the primary tool for global growth, Gupta clarified that this does not mean neglecting the value or engagement around ODIs or Test cricket. The focus remains on ensuring all formats contribute to the sport’s overall growth and appeal.

Source: m.rediff.com

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Newcomers and Returning Stars for ILT20 Season 5

Heinrich Klaasen, David Miller, and Finn Allen are scheduled to make their debuts in the Dubai International League T20 2026. These three players were secured through pre-auction signings for the tournament’s fifth season. Allen will join Abu Dhabi Knight Riders, while Miller and Klaasen are set to play for Gulf Giants.

In addition to the new faces, Australian all-rounder Marcus Stoinis will return to the tournament, playing for Dubai Capitals after a three-year absence. Several prominent players, including Jason Holder, Sunil Narine (Abu Dhabi Knight Riders), Shimron Hetmyer (Desert Vipers), Rovman Powell, and Mustafizur Rahman (Dubai Capitals), are also returning to their respective franchises from Season 4.

Other returning players include Nicholas Pooran, Rashid Khan, and Romario Shepherd for MI Emirates, and Sikandar Raza for Sharjah Warriorz. The defending champions, Desert Vipers, have retained Andries Gous and Dan Lawrence. Azmatullah Omarzai and Blessing Muzarabani are also returning to the Giants camp.

Pre-Auction Signings and Squad Finalisation

The six DP World ILT20 franchises completed their pre-auction signing process for foreign players by the submission deadline of Monday, 3 August. Each team was allowed to make a total of four pre-auction signings. The teams will further build their squads by adding players from the UAE, Kuwait, Saudi Arabia, and other countries.

Squads are mandated to have a minimum of 18 and a maximum of 23 players. The DP World ILT20 Season 5 Player Auction is scheduled to take place in Dubai on Thursday, 1 October 2026. Following the auction, each team will have the opportunity to add one wildcard signing to complete their roster.

Finn Allen, a right-handed opener from New Zealand, was signed by Kolkata Knight Riders for Rs 2 crore ahead of IPL 2026. He is noted for his aggressive batting style, having scored a 33-ball century in a T20 World Cup 2026 semi-final match against South Africa. In 62 T20I appearances, he has accumulated 1663 runs, including three centuries, at a strike-rate of 170.73.

David Miller, a left-handed middle-order batter, was signed by Delhi Capitals for Rs 2 crore before IPL 2026. He has played 140 T20I matches for South Africa, scoring 2804 runs at an average of 33.78 and a strike-rate of 141.40.

Heinrich Klaasen, a wicketkeeper-batter, was retained by Sunrisers Hyderabad for Rs 23 crore. He has scored 1000 runs for South Africa in 58 T2I matches and is recognised for his hitting ability, particularly against spin bowling. He has nearly 300 T20 appearances and close to 7000 runs in the format.

Team Rosters and Notable Signings

The Abu Dhabi Knight Riders squad includes retained players Sunil Narine and Jason Holder, along with new signings Finn Allen and Matthew Tromp. Tromp, from the USA, has played in 18 T20s, scoring 385 runs with an average of 29.61 and a strike-rate of 150.39.

The Gulf Giants have retained Azmatullah Omarzai and Blessing Muzarabani, and signed David Miller and Heinrich Klaasen. MI Emirates have retained Nicholas Pooran, Rashid Khan, and Romario Shepherd, while adding Sherfane Rutherford. Rutherford has made nine previous appearances for Abu Dhabi Knight Riders and 30 for Desert Vipers.

Sharjah Warriorz have retained Sikandar Raza and completed their pre-auction signings with Adam Milne, James Vince, and Waqar Salamkheil. Milne has 12 appearances for the Warriorz in Season 3, while Vince has 42 previous appearances for Gulf Giants. Salamkheil has 21 previous appearances for MI Emirates and 11 for Dubai Capitals.

Desert Vipers have retained Shimron Hetmyer, Andries Gous, and Dan Lawrence, and signed Mujeeb Ur Rahman. Mujeeb Ur Rahman has made five previous appearances each for Gulf Giants and Dubai Capitals. Noor Ahmad, signed by Dubai Capitals, has seven previous appearances for Sharjah Warriorz and eight for Desert Vipers. The International League T20 tournament is scheduled to begin on November 22 and will feature a total of 34 matches.

Source: india.com

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Coaching Search Underway for Chennai Super Kings

The Chennai Super Kings (CSK), five-time champions of the Indian Premier League (IPL), are actively seeking a new head coach. This follows the departure of Stephen Fleming on July 13, 2026, which concluded an 18-year association with the franchise. The search has reportedly taken a specific direction, with the team indicating a preference for an overseas expert to fill the role.

Kasi Viswanathan, CEO of CSK, has confirmed that the franchise is leaning towards appointing an overseas coach, similar to Fleming’s tenure. This preference suggests that Hemang Badani, who was initially considered a candidate, is now less likely to secure the position. However, an official announcement regarding the coaching staff is still pending.

Viswanathan also mentioned that several interested candidates have contacted the franchise. The appointment process is still in its early stages, and a public shortlist has not yet been confirmed. The CEO stated, “We have not started applying our minds on this. First, we will have a coach. We have got calls from many interested candidates. We will sit and finalise.”

Fleming’s Departure and Team Performance

Fleming’s exit came after a challenging period for CSK in recent IPL seasons. The team finished 10th in IPL 2025 and 8th in IPL 2026, missing the playoffs for three consecutive seasons. This consistent decline in performance led to the change, which the franchise confirmed on July 13, 2026.

While Fleming had a highly successful coaching record with CSK in his earlier years, the recent campaigns marked the end of his long stint. There has been no official statement detailing the specific reasons for his departure beyond the team’s results. Initially, names like Ravichandran Ashwin and Rahul Dravid were reportedly considered for the role, but the CEO’s stated preference for an overseas coach has since altered the direction of the search.

Reports have also linked Fleming to a potential role in assisting fellow New Zealander Brendon McCullum in securing the CSK coaching position. However, these reports remain unverified by official sources.

Future Decisions and Player Speculation

The decision on Fleming’s replacement will involve key figures within the CSK organisation. Viswanathan and director Rupa Gurunath are expected to consult with MS Dhoni and captain Ruturaj Gaikwad before finalising the appointment. This approach aims to ensure that experienced voices within the dressing room are part of the selection process.

The franchise has prioritised appointing a head coach before making other squad-building decisions, including any potential moves for players like Hardik Pandya. CSK intends to have the coaching structure in place before addressing further recruitment matters for the next IPL cycle. The timeline for the final coaching appointment has not been publicly disclosed.

Meanwhile, Shivam Dube, a Chennai Super Kings all-rounder, has been the subject of social media speculation regarding his future with the team. Fans have been debating whether he removed the franchise’s name from his Instagram bio amidst ongoing IPL 2027 trade rumours. Dube’s current Instagram bio reads “Athlete, Professional Cricketer, Managed by @fairplaysports_in,” without any mention of the Chennai Super Kings.

This absence has led to some fans questioning if the reference was intentionally removed. However, other fans have argued that Dube never had CSK in his Instagram bio, suggesting the speculation might be unfounded. The disagreement highlights how minor details can generate significant discussion during the trade season.

The underlying trade story involving Dube and a potential move to the Mumbai Indians is considered genuine. However, the speculation surrounding his social media bio is not seen as concrete evidence of an impending move. Until an official statement is made by CSK or Dube himself, the social media chatter remains unconfirmed.

Supporters are advised to await the official trade window for concrete developments rather than relying on online speculation. The episode reflects the intense scrutiny during the trade window rather than providing definitive information about Dube’s intentions.

Dube remains a CSK player, and any changes to a social media bio, even if they occurred, do not hold formal weight in a franchise’s retention or trade decisions. Fans should look for official announcements when the trade window opens to confirm where Dube will play his cricket in IPL 2027.

Source: sports.yahoo.com

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Boxer’s Anecdote and Minister’s Reaction

Union Sports Minister Mansukh Mandaviya recently commented on an anecdote shared by Indian boxer Narender Berwal. The boxer recounted an incident involving a Pakistani opponent, who expressed a strong dislike for the name “Narendra.” Mandaviya posted on X, stating in Hindi, “Narendra naam ka khauf hai Pakistan mein,” which translates to, “The name ‘Narendra’ is feared in Pakistan.” This reaction came after Berwal narrated the story during an interaction with Prime Minister Narendra Modi.

The interaction took place at the Prime Minister’s residence in New Delhi on Sunday, where Berwal was among the Indian medal winners from the 2026 Commonwealth Games. A video of this exchange was widely circulated, including on the Prime Minister’s YouTube channel and other social media platforms. The story prompted laughter from PM Modi.

Berwal, who hails from Haryana, explained that the name “Narendra” and “Narender” are regional variations of the same name, differing based on phonetics. PM Modi is from Gujarat, where the spelling “Narendra” is common.

Commonwealth Games Achievements and Humorous Encounter

Narender Berwal secured a silver medal in the men’s 90kg boxing category at the 2026 Commonwealth Games held in Glasgow. During his conversation with PM Modi, Berwal recalled an incident from the 2015 World Military Games. After defeating a Pakistani opponent, the two boxers both required hospital treatment for cuts sustained when their heads collided during the bout.

It was at the hospital that the Pakistani boxer, whose name was not disclosed, made a notable remark to Berwal. Berwal quoted the opponent as saying, “Bhai jaan… Mujhe Narendra naam se nafrat ho gayi hai,” which translates to, “Brother dear, I have come to hate the name ‘Narendra’!” The Pakistani boxer reportedly pointed out that Berwal’s name was Narender, his coach was also named Narender, and India’s Prime Minister was Narendra, leading to his aversion to the name.

India’s boxing contingent at the 2026 Commonwealth Games had a strong performance, with Narender Berwal being one of 10 Indian boxers who returned with medals. The team achieved its best-ever haul in the sport at a Commonwealth Games, securing seven gold and three silver medals. This performance surpassed the previous record of six gold medals, which was jointly held by England (in 1934 and 2018) and Canada (in 1986).

India’s Overall Medal Tally and Future Hosting

Overall, India concluded its campaign at the 2026 Commonwealth Games in Glasgow with a total of 39 medals. This impressive tally included 13 gold, 17 silver, and nine bronze medals, placing India fourth in the overall medal standings. The Games in Glasgow concluded after 11 days of competition.

Looking ahead, India is slated to host the 2030 Commonwealth Games in Ahmedabad, Gujarat. This city is the home state of both Prime Minister Modi and Minister Mandaviya. The ceremonial baton for the Commonwealth Games was formally handed over to India by Scotland at the conclusion of the Glasgow Games.

The Prime Minister congratulated all the Indian athletes who earned medals at the 2026 Commonwealth Games, acknowledging their dedication, hard work, and contributions to bringing glory to the nation.

Source: hindustantimes.com

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VVS Laxman, who heads the Board of Control for Cricket in India’s Centre of Excellence (CoE), has lauded cricketer Virat Kohli as an exemplary professional and a significant role model for aspiring players. Speaking in Bengaluru on Sunday, Laxman highlighted Kohli’s consistent dedication to high standards, which he believes inspires many young cricketers to emulate him.

Laxman emphasised that Kohli’s commitment to excellence is evident every time he steps onto the field, regardless of the team he represents. This relentless pursuit of high standards is what makes Kohli such an influential figure, according to Laxman.

Kohli’s dedication and fitness standards

Kohli’s journey to becoming one of cricket’s fittest athletes is rooted in a pivotal moment during India’s 2011 tour of Australia. Former cricketer Sachin Tendulkar recounted an instance where Kohli, after a substantial meal at a Thai restaurant in Canberra, expressed his resolve to focus seriously on his fitness. Tendulkar recalled Kohli stating, “Paaji, bahut ho gaya, ab fitness par dhyan dena hai (Enough is enough. I need to start taking my fitness seriously).”

This commitment led to a significant transformation in Kohli’s diet and training regimen. Approximately 90 per cent of his current diet consists of steamed or boiled food, seasoned simply with salt, pepper, and lime, avoiding masala. In recent years, Kohli has also adopted a fully plant-based diet, replacing items like grilled chicken and red meat with lentils, quinoa, vegetables, and protein shakes.

His gym routine focuses on mobility and functional movement rather than just raw strength. Kohli’s training sessions involve fast, explosive movements such as sprints, HIIT drills, plyometric jumps, and strength routines tailored to the demands of batting and fielding. He has publicly stated that “Mobility is key,” underscoring the importance of flexibility and good movement alongside strength.

The discipline extends to his daily routine, with former cricketer Sandeep Patil sharing an anecdote about Kohli performing yoga at 5 AM, followed by two gym sessions, and then scoring a double hundred on the same day. Kohli himself has acknowledged that maintaining strict nutrition is a challenge due to personal cravings and mental discipline, but he has reached a point where he can consume the same meal multiple times a day without issue.

Addressing injury concerns and CoE’s role

During his address, Laxman also defended the BCCI Centre of Excellence amidst scrutiny regarding India’s increasing injury list, particularly before the Sri Lanka Test series. He stated that injuries are an unavoidable aspect of a cricketer’s career and that the primary focus should be on careful monitoring and management of players, rather than assigning blame to the CoE.

Laxman clarified that the CoE’s role extends beyond just rehabilitation; it aims to support cricketers in achieving overall excellence. He noted that several key players, including Jasprit Bumrah, Sai Sudharsan, Harshit Rana, Nitish Kumar Reddy, and Washington Sundar, are currently dealing with fitness issues.

The CoE is also facing challenges in staffing key positions, specifically the Head of Sports Science and Medicine (SSM). Laxman mentioned that the BCCI has encountered difficulties in finding a suitable candidate for this role. He explained that after Nitin Patel left, efforts to fill the position were unsuccessful, with Andrew Leipus backing out due to family reasons. Laxman emphasised that the role requires not only stature and experience but also a deep understanding of Indian cricketers and their specific needs.

Kohli’s approach to fitness and personal discipline, as highlighted by Laxman, provides a strong example at a time when the BCCI’s sports science setup is under examination. His journey underscores that personal dedication and a long-term approach to physical well-being are crucial for sustained performance in cricket.

Source: m.rediff.com

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Former India all-rounder Irfan Pathan has recently discussed the rapid spread of fake news and online trolling, highlighting a specific incident involving Pakistan cricketer Babar Azam during the 2023 ODI World Cup. Pathan clarified that a widely circulated story, which claimed Azam refused to be interviewed by him due to alleged critical comments about Pakistan, was entirely false. He explained that this report was generated using a manipulated photograph.

Pathan, speaking on JioHotstar, stated that “The trolling and fake attribution happen every day.” He recounted how a media outlet in a neighboring country published a story asserting that he had approached Babar Azam for an interview, only to be rejected. The fabricated reason given in the story was that Azam believed Pathan “trolls our country, so I won’t give him an interview.” Pathan firmly denied this, calling it “a complete lie.”

The former cricketer elaborated that someone had photoshopped his face onto an existing picture. The individual in the original photograph was, in fact, a young Bangladeshi reporter who was denied an interview by Azam after approaching him for the first time on the ground. Pathan noted, “They literally put my face on his body and spread the story. It got over a million views, and people believed it was me.” He added that such incidents are common, but he generally chooses not to respond, stating, “Every day, some lie is told in our name or about some player. If you keep responding to everyone, you won’t be able to live your life.”

The spread of misinformation

The incident underscores the challenges posed by misinformation in the digital age, particularly concerning public figures and international rivalries. Pathan’s former India teammate, Harbhajan Singh, also came to his defense against online trolls in 2024, questioning the veracity of such claims. Singh’s tweet highlighted the lack of proper conduct and visual evidence in the viral content.

The rivalry between India and Pakistan in cricket is well-known, with political tensions often influencing fan interactions. One report mentioned a previous incident where Indian cricketers reportedly declined to shake hands with Pakistan players during the Asia Cup 2025, following a terrorist attack. This context may have contributed to the rapid spread and belief in the fabricated story involving Pathan and Azam.

Pathan’s career and other anecdotes

Irfan Pathan was a significant part of India‘s 2007 T20 World Cup-winning team, where he was named Player of the Match in the final against Pakistan. Throughout his international career, he secured 301 wickets and accumulated 2,821 runs. In the Indian Premier League (IPL), Pathan participated in 103 matches, taking 80 wickets and scoring 1,139 runs.

Beyond the discussion of fake news, Pathan also shared an anecdote from his time with the Kings XI Punjab (now Punjab Kings) in the IPL, playing for the team from 2008 to the 2010 season. He recalled an occasion when Bollywood actress Preity Zinta, the team’s owner, cooked ‘paranthas’ for the team. This happened during a season in South Africa when the team had lost several initial matches, leading to disappointment among players and management.

Zinta reportedly promised the team an Indian food party, including homemade paranthas, if they won their next match. Pathan recounted that the team subsequently won a low-scoring game. True to her word, Zinta gathered the players at the hotel and prepared the paranthas. Pathan described her as “such a lovely lady, so warm and caring,” noting that even when the team was consistently losing, she would attend team meetings, engage with the players, and seek ways for improvement without losing her composure.

The incident with Babar Azam highlights the persistent challenge of online misinformation, a phenomenon Pathan noted occurs “every day.”

Source: timesofindia.indiatimes.com

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