Manchester City and Spain midfielder Rodri won the 2024 Ballon d'Or, surpassing Real Madrid’s Vinicius Jr. and Jude Bellingham. The winner's name was leaked on social media hours before the official announcement at a ceremony in France, sparking debate among fans. Real Madrid opted not to attend the event in Paris, indicating their boycott of the proceedings. Following Rodri's victory, some fans expressed disappointment, arguing that Vinicius deserved the prestigious award instead. The controversy surrounding the leaks and the voting process has fueled discussions on social media about the legitimacy of the results.

Following India's home Test series defeat to New Zealand, former South African captain AB de Villiers commented on the evolving competitiveness in world cricket, noting, "Those times are gone" when Indian pitches guaranteed home advantage. India, trailing 0-2 in the three-match series, suffered their first home Test series loss in 12 years. De Villiers praised Indian batters but highlighted New Zealand's adaptability to Indian conditions. Using Virat Kohli's success in South Africa as an example, he suggested that global teams now better understand spin, making games in India more balanced.

Vinicius Jr.'s Ballon d'Or candidacy, bolstered by stellar performances and key contributions to Real Madrid's success, faced scrutiny after a 4-0 El Clasico defeat against Barcelona. While his remarkable 2023-2024 season, including 21 goals and 11 assists, positioned him among the favorites, fans are questioning his consistency in critical games. Despite his strong start in the 2024-2025 season, with five goals in La Liga and three in the Champions League, El Clasico raised doubts. With fierce competition from Jude Bellingham and Rodri, Vinicius's Ballon d'Or chances may hinge on his resilience in future high-stakes matches.

Former cricketer Manoj Tiwary has criticized captain Rohit Sharma and coach Gautam Gambhir after India’s Test series loss to New Zealand, ending an 18-series home winning streak. Tiwary pointed to decisions made in the rain-hit opener in Bengaluru, where India chose to bat first. He questioned the team’s selection choices, noting the exclusion of Kuldeep Yadav and Axar Patel. Tiwary warned that these choices could lead to “cracks in the dressing room.” India now hopes to recover in the third Test starting November 1 before a crucial five-Test tour in Australia that may impact their World Test Championship hopes.

Following India’s second Test loss to New Zealand in Pune, head coach Gautam Gambhir has mandated attendance for all players, including Virat Kohli and Rohit Sharma, at upcoming training sessions on October 30 and 31. Traditionally optional, these sessions are now compulsory as the team prepares for the crucial third Test in Mumbai. The decision comes amid India’s first home series defeat in 12 years, underscoring the need to regain form for World Test Championship standings. After a two-day break, players are reassembling in Mumbai to begin intensive preparations for the match.

Indian captain Rohit Sharma is under fire from fans after India’s 113-run defeat to New Zealand, marking India’s first home Test series loss in 12 years. Following the loss, Sharma defended his team, stating that "one loss in 12 years" should be permissible. However, his comments sparked widespread backlash, with fans on social media accusing him of downplaying the defeat. Critics argue that the statement shows a lack of accountability. Sharma admitted to a batting collapse but praised his bowlers' efforts. India and New Zealand face off in the final Test on November 1 in Mumbai.

New Zealand spinner Mitchell Santner delivered a career-best performance, taking 13 wickets to secure his team’s first-ever series win against India. The left-arm spinner dominated both innings of the Pune Test, helping New Zealand clinch a 113-run victory. Santner, previously overlooked for the first Test, played a crucial role in this match, effectively dismantling India’s middle and top orders with precision and variation in his deliveries. He described the experience as "sore but rewarding," expressing pride in his consistent line and pace adjustments. The win marks a historic achievement for New Zealand in Indian Test cricket.

The Premier League is set to propose a new financial settlement plan for its clubs and the English Football League (EFL) next month, following recent government legislation that enables the establishment of an independent football regulator. This new regulatory body will have the authority to enforce significant financial reforms within English football. To navigate these changes, the Premier League has enlisted consultants, including Global Counsel, the firm led by Lord Mandelson, to advise on issues tied to the incoming regulator. The initiative marks a step towards addressing financial disparities within English football through structured oversight and financial settlements.

Ravichandran Ashwin made history on Day 1 of the second Test against New Zealand in Pune, becoming the all-time leading wicket-taker in the World Test Championship (WTC). Ashwin, who had 186 wickets before the match, surpassed Australia's Nathan Lyon by dismissing New Zealand’s Tom Latham and Will Young, bringing his total to 188 wickets. India made three changes for the match, while New Zealand brought in Mitchell Santner. At lunch, New Zealand was 92/2 with Devon Conway and Rachin Ravindra at the crease. New Zealand leads the series 1-0 after winning the first Test.

Washington Sundar delivered a stellar performance on the first day of the second Test against New Zealand in Pune, taking a career-best 7 for 59 to restrict New Zealand to 259. Devon Conway (76) and Rachin Ravindra (65) provided some resistance, but Sundar, supported by R Ashwin’s 3/64, spun out New Zealand. Sundar’s figures included five bowled dismissals, and Ashwin surpassed Nathan Lyon’s 530 wickets. India ended Day 1 at 16/1, trailing by 243 runs, with Tim Southee removing Rohit Sharma. India is aiming to continue its 18-series home winning streak.