Sports organiser Satadru Dutta alleged that VIP interference and security failures caused the chaos during Lionel Messi’s controversial Kolkata tour event. In an exclusive interview, Dutta claimed members of Messi’s entourage blamed West Bengal Sports Minister Aroop Biswas for the breakdown after nearly 100 people allegedly crowded Messi for selfies inside restricted areas. Dutta said Messi became visibly uncomfortable in the claustrophobic environment, especially after being touched by attendees during photographs. The organiser, who spent 38 days in custody after the incident, described the Kolkata event as his “biggest regret” and claimed he ended the programme early to protect the remaining India tour events from cancellation.

India’s impressive campaign in the AFC U17 Women's Asian Cup ended after a 0-3 quarter-final defeat to hosts China in Suzhou, crushing hopes of qualifying for the 2026 FIFA U17 Women’s World Cup. Despite the loss, the Young Tigresses achieved their best-ever performance in the tournament by reaching the knockout stage for the first time. China dominated possession throughout the match and took the lead through Huang Qinyi before Liu Yuxi converted a penalty in first-half stoppage time. India struggled to create clear opportunities after the break, while goalkeeper Munni produced crucial saves. Li Qixian sealed China’s victory with a late goal in regulation time.

Indian wrestler Vinesh Phogat arrived in Gonda for the National Open Ranking Tournament despite receiving a show-cause notice from the Wrestling Federation of India over alleged anti-doping and disciplinary violations. The tournament is being held in the home district of former WFI chief Brij Bhushan Sharan Singh. Vinesh, returning to competition after nearly 20 months and following the birth of her son, had registered before the deadline. However, winners of the event will not qualify for Asian Games selection trials under WFI policy. She is awaiting clearance from the federation to compete in the women’s freestyle category.

Vaibhav Sooryavanshi created history in the IPL 2026 season. The 15-year-old became the fastest player to hit 100 sixes in T20 cricket. He reached the mark in just 514 balls during Rajasthan Royals' match against Gujarat Titans. He also became the youngest player to achieve this feat. Sooryavanshi scored 36 runs off 16 balls, including three sixes. With 30 sixes in the powerplay this season, he broke Abhishek Sharma's IPL record of 29. Sooryavanshi has already scored two IPL centuries in fewer than 40 balls, making him one of cricket's brightest young stars. (PC: PTI)

The Wrestling Federation of India (WFI) has issued a show-cause notice to wrestler Vinesh Phogat, accusing her of indiscipline, anti-doping violations and breaches of federation rules. WFI declared her ineligible to compete in domestic events until June 26, ruling her out of the National Open Ranking Tournament in Gonda. The federation alleged that Phogat failed to complete the mandatory six-month notice period required after returning from retirement and also questioned her participation in two weight categories during 2024 trials. The Olympian has been given 14 days to respond. The controversy further deepens the ongoing conflict between Phogat and WFI leadership. (PC: HT)

The Board of Control for Cricket in India has issued strict new rules for IPL 2026 to prevent scandals and security risks. In a seven-page advisory, BCCI Secretary Devajit Saikia warned franchises about possible “honey-trap” risks. Surprise checks may be carried out in players’ hotel rooms by a special task force. Outsiders will not be allowed into players’ rooms without team manager approval. Players and staff must also inform security officials before leaving hotels. The BCCI said any rule violation could lead to fines, suspension or disqualification. Franchise owners were also told not to contact players during matches. (PC: BBCI/IPL)

The BCCI has issued an eight-page advisory to all 10 IPL franchises after multiple protocol violations during IPL 2026, including vaping in dressing rooms and unauthorised phone usage. Secretary Devajit Saikia warned teams about “honey trap” risks, banned unauthorised visitors in hotel rooms, and ordered strict movement reporting for players and staff. Franchise owners were also barred from interacting with players in dugouts, dressing rooms, or restricted zones during matches. The advisory prohibits vaping, e-cigarettes, and banned substances across stadiums, hotels, and practice facilities. Teams must maintain guest approval systems, movement logs, and mandatory compliance briefings. The BCCI warned violations could invite fines, suspensions, disqualification, or even legal action against individuals and franchises.

Milind Soman completed a 15-kilometre open-water swim across the Strait of Gibraltar, travelling from Tarifa in Spain to the coast of Morocco in Africa. Sharing photos from the challenge on Instagram, the 60-year-old called it a “beautiful” experience. The feat drew praise from fans and celebrities, including Shenaz Treasury. Fitness experts said long-distance open-water swimming tests endurance, immunity and recovery systems through cold exposure, breath control and sustained physical effort. Experts also stressed the importance of nutrition and recovery after extreme endurance activities. (PC: The Indian Express)

India has announced a new sports policy that blocks bilateral sporting ties with Pakistan but allows Pakistani athletes and teams to compete in international events hosted in the country. The Sports Ministry said Indian teams will not travel to Pakistan for bilateral events, and Pakistani teams will also not be allowed for bilateral contests in India. However, the government clarified that multilateral events will follow international sports rules. “Pakistani players and teams will be able to participate in such multilateral events hosted by India,” the memo said. The move comes as India prepares to host major global events, including the 2030 Commonwealth Games and the 2031 Cricket World Cup. The government also promised easier visas for athletes and officials. (PC: The Indian Express)

Kolkata Knight Riders made history by becoming the first IPL franchise to claim 650 spin wickets in men’s T20 cricket during their match against Sunrisers Hyderabad. The milestone was achieved through standout performances by Sunil Narine and Varun Chakaravarthy, who combined for 5/67. Narine also reached his 200th IPL wicket in the same game. Of KKR’s 651 spin wickets, 605 have come in the IPL. Only Pakistan, India, and Lancashire have more overall T20 spin wickets. Known for their spin-heavy strategy since the Eden Gardens era, KKR continue to dominate with their legacy approach. (PC: Creimas)