Donald Trump said Iran should be allowed to take part in the FIFA World Cup 2026, adding “let them play”. Iran’s participation had been uncertain after recent US and Israeli strikes. Gianni Infantino had earlier confirmed that Iran would compete and play matches in the United States. Trump said, “If Gianni said it, I’m OK.” He added, “You do whatever you want.” Iran is set to begin its campaign against New Zealand in Los Angeles. The issue had raised questions about safety and travel amid ongoing tensions between the two countries. (PC: X)

Seven-year-old Ishank Singh has become the youngest to swim across the Palk Strait. The Ranchi boy completed the 29-km stretch in 9 hours and 50 minutes on Friday. He started at 4 am from Talaimannar in Sri Lanka and reached Dhanushkodi in Tamil Nadu by 1:50 pm. The route is known for strong currents and rough sea conditions. Singh overcame these challenges during the swim. Hemant Soren praised him, calling it an “extraordinary” achievement. The earlier record was held by Jay Jashwanth, who completed the swim at age 10. (PC: India today)

Nagaland equestrian athlete Kekhriesilie Rio won the Grand Prix at Haras de Liverdy in France while riding Presley OL. The win came in an international showjumping event and marks a key moment for Indian equestrian sport. Abu Metha called it a “remarkable moment” for Indian showjumping. He said Rio’s success shows how young athletes can reach top levels with the right support. Rio has shown steady progress over the years. He won a junior national title in 2018 and finished second in an Asian event in 2019. He has also ranked No. 1 in Asia in a global competition. (PC: X)

The Board of Control for Cricket in India said it will seek an explanation from Riyan Parag after a video showed him vaping in the dressing room. The clip was captured during an Indian Premier League match between Rajasthan Royals and Punjab Kings. It went viral on social media. A BCCI official said, “We will be seeking an explanation… as vaping is not allowed.” The board added that further action will depend on his response. The incident reportedly happened after Parag was dismissed during the match in Mullanpur. 

Rinku Singh created history in IPL 2026 with an unbeaten 83 for Kolkata Knight Riders against Lucknow Super Giants. His knock came off 51 balls with seven fours and five sixes. It is now the highest score by a No. 6 batter in IPL history. He broke MS Dhoni’s record of 70 not out set in 2011. Rinku also added 62 runs with Sunil Narine to lift KKR past 150. The match ended in a tie, but KKR won in the Super Over. The win helped KKR move up in the points table. (PC: NDTV)

Vaibhav Sooryavanshi has been accused of foul play by Nauman Niaz after his recent IPL hundred. Niaz suggested the 15-year-old may be using an “AI chip” in his bat to generate power. “Get his bat checked… send him to some lab,” he said on a show. He added the youngster’s power and range looked unusual for his age. Sooryavanshi scored a 37-ball century against Sunrisers Hyderabad. He has 357 runs in eight matches this season. His performances have put him among top scorers in the league. (PC: X)

Sunrisers Hyderabad beat Rajasthan Royals by five wickets in IPL 2026 despite a record knock by Vaibhav Sooryavanshi.   Rajasthan posted 228/6 after Sooryavanshi scored a 36-ball century. It was one of the fastest tons in IPL history. He also became the first player to hit two hundreds in under 40 balls. He added a key stand with Dhruv Jurel.   Hyderabad chased the target with strong batting. Ishan Kishan made 74 runs. Abhishek Sharma scored 57.   Eshan Malinga took two wickets. Pat Cummins kept runs low. (PC: BCCI)

S Sreesanth has once again sparked controversy by declaring that he has completely cut ties with former teammate Harbhajan Singh and even blocked him on Instagram. The dispute traces back to the infamous 2008 IPL 'slapgate' incident, which resurfaced after Harbhajan reportedly featured in a commercial referencing it. Sreesanth alleged that Harbhajan earned around Rs 80 lakh to Rs 1 crore from the advertisement and asked him to promote it, which he found insensitive. He stated that while he has forgiven Harbhajan, he cannot forget the incident. The former pacer said the commercialisation of the controversy led to his decision. (PC: AFP)

Chennai Super Kings delivered a dominant performance to thrash Mumbai Indians by 103 runs at Wankhede Stadium in IPL 2026. Sanju Samson starred with a शानदार unbeaten 101, guiding CSK to 207/6. In response, MI collapsed to just 104, with Akeal Hosein and CSK spinners dismantling the batting lineup. The match marked a historic moment as MS Dhoni missed the game. CSK’s all-round brilliance highlighted their strong form, while MI suffered one of their heaviest defeats in IPL history. (PC: PTI)

Mumbai Indians and Chennai Super Kings meet in IPL 2026 with both teams still searching for form. The focus is on MS Dhoni, who is close to returning after a calf injury. Rohit Sharma is also close to a comeback from a hamstring issue. Both players trained ahead of the match at Wankhede. Their availability is not confirmed. Both teams have struggled for consistency this season. Mumbai and Chennai have used many players and are yet to settle combinations. Despite poor form, the rivalry remains close. One key moment or player could decide the match. (PC: India Today)