Yuvraj Singh revealed he faced a lack of communication from team management before his exit from the Indian side, expressing frustration over unclear decisions during the final phase of his career. He stated neither Virat Kohli nor the coach explained his exclusion, leaving him uncertain about his future. Yuvraj credited MS Dhoni for offering clarity, informing him selectors were no longer considering him. He was also told he wouldn’t pass fitness tests and was advised to retire, though he insisted that decision was his alone. Yuvraj retired in 2019 after a distinguished career spanning 398 matches and over 11,000 runs. (PC: AFP)

Former India all-rounder Yuvraj Singh has criticised Sunrisers Hyderabad for overlooking Abhishek Sharma for captaincy in IPL 2026, drawing parallels with how MS Dhoni was once promoted over him. Despite Abhishek’s long association and consistent performances, SRH appointed Ishan Kishan as stand-in skipper in the absence of injured Pat Cummins. Yuvraj, who mentors Abhishek, said such decisions can impact a player’s mindset and sense of belonging. He highlighted Abhishek’s loyalty and leadership experience, questioning why a long-serving player was sidelined for a newer entrant. (PC: AP & AFP)

Sunrisers Hyderabad batter Abhishek Sharma was reprimanded by the IPL Governing Council for breaching the league’s Code of Conduct during SRH’s match against Kolkata Knight Riders at Eden Gardens. The all‑rounder admitted to a Level 1 offence under Article 2.3 for using audible obscenities and was fined 25 % of his match fee and given one demerit point on his disciplinary record. While the official statement didn’t detail the exact incident, Level 1 breaches are the least severe but can lead to harsher penalties if repeated. SRH won the game by 65 runs. (PC: ANI)

Kerala Sports Minister V. Abdurahiman has accused Lionel Messi and the Argentina national team of “cheating” the state after an alleged failure to honour a deal to play a friendly match in Kochi. According to reports, organisers had arranged around ₹250 crore through sponsors to host the World Cup-winning side, but the match was never finalised due to clearance issues. The minister termed the episode a “scam” and demanded compensation, claiming commitments were not fulfilled despite preparations. The controversy has sparked political debate and raised concerns over transparency in high-profile international sports agreements. (PC: AFP)

Lionel Messi broke down in tears during his final match on home soil as Argentina national football team defeated Zambia 5-0 in a friendly at La Bombonera. The 38-year-old scored once and assisted Julián Álvarez, taking his international tally to 116 goals and 902 career strikes. The emotional night marked a likely farewell before the FIFA World Cup 2026, where he is expected to make his final appearance. Moved by fans’ chants, Messi acknowledged the moment’s significance. Argentina, the defending champions, now prepare for the tournament aiming to retain their title with their iconic captain leading one last campaign.

Lionel Messi delivered an emotional farewell performance on home soil as Argentina national football team defeated Zambia national football team 5–0 in a pre-World Cup friendly in Buenos Aires. The 38-year-old was seen in tears before kickoff, in what is widely expected to be his final match in Argentina. He marked the occasion with a goal and an assist, leading a dominant display. The match served as a send-off ahead of the 2026 FIFA World Cup, with Argentina showing strong form and emotional unity as they prepare to defend their title. (PC: X)

Gianni Infantino confirmed that Iran will participate in the FIFA World Cup 2026 despite the ongoing West Asia conflict. Dismissing speculation about relocating matches, he stated Iran’s Group G fixtures will proceed as scheduled in the United States. Speaking in Turkey, Infantino expressed confidence after meeting players and staff. Earlier concerns had emerged over safety and possible venue shifts to Mexico, amid tensions involving the US and Israel. FIFA reiterated its commitment to ensuring all qualified teams compete, emphasising football’s role in promoting unity despite geopolitical conflicts. (PC: AFP)

Police in Bengaluru have busted a mobile theft racket operating during the Indian Premier League 2026 match between Royal Challengers Bengaluru and Sunrisers Hyderabad at M. Chinnaswamy Stadium. The gang allegedly used minors to steal phones from spectators in crowded stands. Cubbon Park Police recovered 21 stolen mobile phones worth ₹18 lakh. A key suspect has been arrested along with several juveniles suspected of involvement. Authorities said the group was linked to an out-of-state network targeting large public events, highlighting organised crime exploiting crowds during major sporting occasions. (PC: The Hindu)

A British broadcast engineer working on the Indian Premier League was found dead in his hotel room in Mumbai. The deceased, 76-year-old Ian William Langford, was staying at the Trident Hotel while covering matches. Hotel staff found him lying on the floor after he did not respond to calls. A doctor declared him dead at the scene. Police have registered a case of “unnatural death” and started an investigation. Officials said there were no signs of foul play so far. The body has been sent for examination. Langford was part of the broadcast team for IPL matches. (PC: India Today)

Mumbai Indians beat Kolkata Knight Riders by six wickets to end a 14-year wait for a winning start in the Indian Premier League. Rohit Sharma scored 78 off 38 and went past Virat Kohli for a key record. Ryan Rickelton added 81 off 43 as MI chased 221 in 19.1 overs. Earlier, Ajinkya Rahane hit a half-century for KKR. Debutant Angkrish Raghuvanshi scored 51 off 29. KKR finished at 220 for four after batting first. The match was played at Wankhede Stadium. (PC; X)