“Human life is the only thing we have”; Pep Guardiola Opens Up About the Violence Against Human
Pep Guardiola, the Manchester City manager, recently spoke out against the human rights violence and injustice among the nations in a press conference. He further made a plea to halt this heinous injustice against human lives just months before the FIFA World Cup. The manager explored more than just football before Manchester City’s Carabao Cup semi-final press conference. He made a remarkable and brave gesture, calling out the global tragedies and expressing his distress over the atrocious shooting of Renee Good and Alex Pretti in Minnesota during an immigration enforcement operation. “Look what happened in the United States of America, Renee Good and Alex Pretti have been killed,” Guardiola stated. “Never, ever in the history of humanity have we had the information in front of our eyes watching more clearly than now.” The 55-year-old further explored the conflicts and streak of losing lives around the world. “The genocide in Palestine, what happened in Ukraine, what happened in Russia, what happened all around the world, in Sudan, everywhere,” he said, referring to the Israeli-occupied Palestinian territories. “What happened in front of us? Do you want to see it? It’s our problems as human beings. It’s our problems.” Turning back to the Minnesota shootings, Guardiola asked how such acts could be justified. “Look what happened in the United States of America, Renee Good and Alex Pretti were killed. Tell me how you can defend that,” he said. “When I see the images, I am sorry, it hurts. That is why in every position I can help speak up to be a better society, I will try and will be there. All the time. It is for my kids, my family, for you.” He also claimed that society is not perfect. However, the responsibility lay with everyone. “There is no perfect society, nowhere is perfect, I am not perfect, we have to work to be better.” Guardiola also pointed to Pretti’s profession to emphasize the human cost of the incident. “A nurse, NHS. Imagine the NHS. Five, six people around him, go on the grass and 10 shots,” he said, referring to Pretti, who worked as an intensive care nurse at a US Department of Veterans Affairs hospital. “Tell me how you can defend that?” The City manager’s remarks followed a question about refereeing decisions but extended well beyond football. They came just days after Guardiola attended a rally in Barcelona supporting Palestinian children. He was present at the event on Thursday night and did not attend a scheduled media conference in Manchester the following day, with assistant Pep Lijnders stepping in to fulfil media duties ahead of Sunday’s match against Tottenham Hotspur. Guardiola said he felt a personal responsibility to speak out. “Protecting the human being and human life is the only thing we have,” he said. “Not just in these parts of the world, but every part of the world. “What is happening right now, with the technologies and advances that we have, humanity is better than ever in terms of possibilities. We can reach the moon; we can do everything. But still, right now, we kill each other. For what? For what?” He concluded by reaffirming his resolve to use his platform to call for change. “When I see the images, I am sorry, it hurts me. That is why in every position I can help by speaking up to be a better society, I will try and will be there.”
Ananya Bangar, EX-Cricket’s Child To Undergo Gender-Affirming Surgery
Ananya Bangar, the former Indian cricketer and coach Sanjay Bangar’s daughter, is heading towards a gender-affirming surgery in March. Ananya, who is also a cricketer, has publicly shared her transformation story. She has been a staunch trans-rights advocate and now expressed that she has the support of her parents. The coach will bear the cost of surgery. Ananya recently, in an interview with Times of India, stated, “I will be undergoing gender-affirming surgery (vaginoplasty) in March. Fashion designer Saisha Shinde and actress Trinetra Haldar Gummaraju, who have also undergone the procedure, guided me. I’ll be having the surgery at the same clinic in Thailand, where I’ll need to stay for at least a month. After that, I’ll have to rest for a while. I won’t be able to play cricket for at least six months, but I’m glad this is finally happening.” “I’ve waited for this moment for five years. This is who I am. I never felt aligned with the gender I was born with. The decision to undergo the gender-affirming surgery came after years of therapy, medical evaluations and deep self-reflection. I went through extensive psychological and medical assessments to ensure I’m ready,” she added. “I’ve waited for this moment for five years. This is who I am. I never felt aligned with the gender I was born with. The decision to undergo the gender-affirming surgery came after years of therapy, medical evaluations and deep self-reflection. I went through extensive psychological and medical assessments to ensure I’m ready,” she added. Previously, she discussed with her father that she doesn’t see a future in cricket. However, she will continue her journey as an advocate for the inclusion of transgender athletes in the international stage of cricket. She expressed, “I received immense support from people and was in a better place financially, too. My father saw people taking pictures with me, standing by me and respecting me. Both my parents realised this wasn’t a phase. They saw that I was serious about my life and my choices.” “I believe that’s what led them to come around and offer me full support. My father is bearing the complete expenses of my surgery. At one point, I was completely on my own in the UK, and there is still a lot of stigma around LGBTQ+ people within families. I hope that by speaking out and by my family supporting me, it will help other trans women. It could make these conversations easier in someone else’s home. In a country where conversations around gender identity are still difficult within families, my parents’ support means everything.”
Ronaldo Might Walk Away From Al Nassr Over Financial Issue
Cristiano Ronaldo, is reportedly rethinking his future in Saudi Arabia amid concerns over the level of financial support Al Nassr receive compared to rival clubs in the Saudi Pro League. A Sky Sports News report claims the star forward is dissatisfied with the club’s management. A situation that led to him missing Al Nassr’s match against Al Riyadh. The striker allegedly feels Al Nassr are at a disadvantage and doesn’t receive the same financial backing as its rivals. Al Hilal, Al Ahli, and Al Ittihad are all owned by Saudi Arabia’s sovereign wealth fund, PIF. The 40-year-old striker believes that his club is not receiving the same financial backing as the other three clubs, which are owned by the Saudi sovereign wealth fund PIF, including Al Hilal, Al Ahli and Al Ittihad. The striker is also frustrated by Al Hilal’s transfer activity. He is unsatisfied with Al Hilal signing Karim Benzema from Al Ittihad. In contrast, Al Nassr made only one signing in the January window. They brought in Iraqi midfielder Hayder Abdulkareem. Al Hilal currently lead the Saudi Pro League by just one point over Al Nassr. Ronaldo wants to win the Saudi title for the first time. He had hoped his club would strengthen the squad during the transfer window. The report adds that Ronaldo believes PIF prioritises its other clubs. Saudi football is now open to private investors. Notably, Benzema’s move to Al Hilal was not funded by the SPL or PIF. The transfer was backed by Saudi billionaire Prince Alwaleed bin Talal. Senior Saudi officials have urged Cristiano Ronaldo to end his strike and return to action for Al Nassr, expressing surprise at his unhappiness despite earning around £500,000 per day. They are keen for him to play in the key title clash against Al Ittihad. Ronaldo still has 18 months left on his contract, which includes a £43 million release clause, and he continues to enjoy full backing from Saudi Arabia. The report adds that Al Nassr were inactive in the January transfer window after already spending close to £100 million this season.
Mizoram Govt. To Help Aizawl FC and Chanmari FC For I-League
The Mizoram government has stepped in to support Aizawl FC and Chanmari FC for the 2025–26 I-League. Both clubs were unable to meet the participation fee deadline on their own. They have informed the All India Football Federation and sought an extension to complete the payment process. Eligible clubs were asked to deposit around ₹20 lakh by February 2. Ten clubs have confirmed their participation. Eight of them have already paid the required amount. Last season’s runners-up Churchill Brothers have not confirmed participation. Churchill Brothers continue to maintain that they deserve promotion to the Indian Super League. This is despite losing their case at the Court of Arbitration for Sport. The verdict awarded the I-League title and promotion to Inter Kashi. Churchill have made it clear they will not play in the second division. Chanmari president Vanlalruatfamkima expressed this to AIFF deputy secretary general Satyanarayan M. “We are writing to confirm our participation in this season’s I-League, with our participation fee to be paid by the State Government of Mizoram,” It further stated, “We are pleased to inform you that we have successfully secured the commitment of our Honourable Sports Minister, Mr. Lalnghinglova Hmar, who has agreed to pay the participation fee on behalf of our club through the State Government.” Aizawl FC and Chanmari FC had earlier informed AIFF about their financial difficulties. On the deadline day, they approached the Mizoram government for support. The state government gave verbal assurance of financial assistance. The matter was communicated to AIFF. The federation accepted the request for an extended timeline. The delay was allowed due to standard government administrative procedures. Both clubs are expected to receive similar financial assistance. The amount is likely to be between ₹20 lakh and ₹25 lakh each. The support is expected to be a one-time measure. It is not intended to set a precedent. This will be the first time two clubs from Mizoram will compete in the I-League. The move is aimed at ensuring Mizo players continue to get national-level exposure. Clubs will still have to manage other expenses. The upcoming season will not offer the usual subsidy of around ₹50 lakh. The delayed start has increased the financial burden. The league is expected to kick off on February 21. Mizoram had 47 players in the I-League last season. This accounted for nearly 15 percent of the total Indian player pool. The number was expected to rise significantly this season with the addition of Chanmari FC. The state also contributed 37 players to the ISL in 2024–25. It supplied around 34 players to I-League 2 last season. Mizoram continues to be a major talent hub for Indian football. The I-League will be played in a single-leg home-and-away format. AIFF is also considering a new club-oriented ownership structure. A proposal to rebrand the competition as the Indian Football League is under discussion. AIFF is yet to decide on relegation from the previous season. The disciplinary committee has not taken a final call on the matter.
Who will be the ISL league commissioner? Still no answer
The Indian Super League is set to start on 14th February. The definitive timetable is about to be revealed. The name of the broadcaster has been revealed, but who will serve as the league commissioner? Three names have been circulating. Chirag Tanna, Sunando Dhar, and Anil Kumar are the individuals. Despite the fact that all three are dodging this question.However, it’s been learned that All India Football Federation had planned to propose Anil Kumar for this role. Once Anil Kumar became the general secretary of AIFF, the Delhi High Court stayed the appointment that time. But this time again his name is on board. Is this a coincidence or is something else going on inside the federation? However, Anil Kumar denies this. He says, “It’s all rumors; there will be nothing happening like this. I did not receive any proposal like this. Everyone will be informed of the name within a few days. I am busy with other work now.” On the other hand, the same story is for Chirag Tanna and Sunando Dhar. It’s been heard that AIFF asked them for this post. Chirag Tanna and Sunando Dhar both of them got the same proposal for ISL League Commissioner Position. But both of them rejected this. When we contacted Chirg Tanna, he straightforwardly denied all the matter. He also says there is no proposal from the federation. Chirag Tanna says, “These are all rumors. I won’t get anything like this, and I also have not applied for anything. Rumors are spreading.” Now the question is who will be the ISL league commissioner. As the league will start on 14th of this month. It means there is only 10 days in hand. Everyone is waiting for this moment.
Bengal’s Santosh Trophy Title Defence Ends in Quarterfinal Heartbreak
Bengal’s Santosh Trophy campaign ended in disappointment as the defending champions were knocked out in the quarterfinals by Services on penalties. Sanjoy Sen’s side went down 3–2 in the tie-breaker after a goalless draw in regulation and extra time. It was a night marked by poor finishing, sloppy football, and missed chances problems that ultimately proved fatal. Even two crucial saves by substitute goalkeeper Gaurab Shaw in the shootout could not prevent Bengal’s exit. Sanjoy Sen had anticipated a tough contest. Services had scraped through the group stage and then stunned Kerala to reach the quarterfinals. A team that survives like that often becomes dangerous—and Bengal found that out the hard way. From the opening minutes, Services pressed aggressively and unsettled Bengal. Bengal’s first real chance arrived in the 19th minute through a move down the left flank, but it failed to produce a goal. In midfield, Tanmay Das and Chaku Mandi struggled to assert control. Loose passes and poor ball retention repeatedly handed momentum to Services. Just before halftime, Services found the net, but the goal was ruled out for offside. The first half ended scoreless, though Bengal looked far from comfortable. In the second half, Sen brought on Bijoy Murmu in place of Akash Hembrom to inject pace on the wings. While that change brought some movement, Services stayed compact at the back. Ravi looked increasingly isolated up front. Bengal stayed in the game largely because of goalkeeper Somnath Dutta, who made several timely interventions off his line. However, the moment that summed up Bengal’s night came in the dying minutes of regulation time. Ravi’s low cross from the right beat the entire Services defence. Sayan Bandyopadhyay arrived unmarked at the far post, with the goal wide open. Shockingly, he blasted the ball over the bar. Extra time followed the same pattern. Services attacked relentlessly, and Bengal survived through desperate defending. At the 100-minute mark, Chaku Mandi made a crucial goal-line clearance that could have ended the contest. Services’ poor finishing, combined with Bengal’s last-ditch defence, kept the score level. Ahead of the shootout, Bengal replaced Somnath with Gaurab Shaw. The move nearly paid off. Gaurab saved two penalties. But Bengal’s shooters failed him. Chaku Mandi and Karan Rai missed early, and when Narhari Shrestha failed to convert the final kick, the outcome was sealed. Services won the tie-breaker 3–2. Bengal’s dream of defending the Santosh Trophy was over undone by missed chances, lack of composure, and a night when nothing went right in front of goal.
PCB Fails To Accumulate Support Over India Dispute
Pakistan’s attempt to boycott the February 15 World Cup match against India has collapsed. No international cricket board has supported the move. The Pakistan Cricket Board (PCB) now stands isolated. Despite public statements from the Pakistan government, the PCB has not formally approached the ICC. It has quietly reached out to other boards instead. The response has been blunt. Not one board has backed Pakistan. The consensus is clear. Pakistan has no legal standing to boycott the match. The move, framed as solidarity with Bangladesh, is being seen as a manufactured crisis. The PCB’s position is further weakened by contradictions. Pakistan’s Under-19 team recently played India in the U19 World Cup. There was no protest. No boycott. More tellingly, the Pakistan Women’s A team is still scheduled to play India A on 15th February. The match will take place in Bangkok during the Rising Stars Asia Cup. There are no plans to withdraw. Security arguments have also failed. The men’s World Cup match will be played in Colombo, Sri Lanka. It is a neutral venue. Bangladesh’s security concerns about travelling to India do not apply here. The PCB now has no allies. The ICC has already warned of long-term sanctions. Other boards have reminded Pakistan that selective participation goes against the spirit of global sport. If the boycott goes ahead, the cost will be heavy. Financial penalties could cross $38 million. World Cup points could be forfeited. Suspension is also possible. There is still time to step back. But without a course correction, Pakistan cricket risks serious and lasting damage.
U-19 Bangladesh Stun U-17 India in SAFF Under-19 Women’s Championship
Bangladesh stunned the Indian Tigresses by a 2-0 margin in the SAFF Under-19 Women’s Championship 2026. Aprita Biswas scored the first goal of Bengal Tigers in the 29th minute of the match. While Alpi Akter sealed the second net before half-time. The five-time champion, Bangladesh, has sealed their spot in the finals with two consecutive wins. They defeated Bhutan with a thrashing 12-0 margin during the opening group stage match. In the U-19 tournament, India travelled with a U-17 squad to Pokhara. Needless to say, India is treating this as a preparatory stage for the AFC U-17 Asian Cup, scheduled later this year. The Indian squad kicked off their campaign with a 1-0 win against host Nepal. They have to secure a win in their last group match against Bhutan to progress in the tournament, which is scheduled on 4th February.
Josh Hazlewood To Miss the Part of the T20 World Cup
Josh Hazlewood, the Australian fast bowler to miss out on the early matches of the T20 World Cup in Sri Lanka. The national selector, Tony Dodemaide, recently stated, bowler will continue his rehabilitation after an injury in Sydney. However, the trio of Nathan Ellis, Tim David, and Glenn Maxwell has reached Colombo. Dodemaide stated, “Nathan, Tim, and Glenn have arrived in Colombo, and we look forward to meeting up with them when we arrive from Pakistan.” “We felt with Josh it was more practical and beneficial for him to continue his rehabilitation at home in a familiar environment before travelling to Sri Lanka.” Hazlewood has been ruled out of the 2025-26 Ashes series because of a persistent Achilles injury. The problem developed while he was recovering from an earlier hamstring strain. Dodemaide did not provide a timeline for when Hazlewood will return for the tournament. Australia’s preliminary matches conclude on 20th February, with Oman, Sri Lanka, and Zimbabwe as their other group opponents. Last week, experienced pacer Pat Cummins was ruled out of the tournament due to a persistent back injury and has been replaced in the 15-man squad by Ben Dwarshuis. Dodemaide added that Abbott is included as a backup for Ellis. “With Nathan also completing his return to play, we decided to bring Sean with us as fast bowling cover should anything come up at short notice,” he said “Sean is an accomplished and versatile international player who has experienced numerous World Cup campaigns. It made sense for him to stay with the group following the Pakistan tour.” Australia is set to play four preparatory matches in Colombo and Pallekele before their campaign begins against Ireland on 11th February. While the bowler is forced to be sidelined during the early part of the tournament, Sea Abbott is flying with the team as a travelling reserve.
Tilak Varma To Play Against USA For Preparatory Match
Tilak Varma, the ace batter, is set to appear for India A in one of the warm-up fixtures before the T20 World Cup. Previously, on Monday, BCCI confirmed Tilak’s participation in the senior squad for the marquee tournament. The India A are schedule to play against the USA and Namibia for the preparation matches held in Navi Mumbai and Bengaluru on Monday and Friday, respectively. Batting all-rounder Ayush Badoni has been named captain of the India A team. Tilak is expected to play in one match before joining the senior squad. The 23-year-old is currently recovering at the BCCI Centre of Excellence in Bengaluru (COE) after undergoing lower abdominal surgery in Rajkot earlier this month. Tilak was initially set to join India’s squad for the final two T20Is against New Zealand. However, he was rested to manage his workload ahead of the World Cup. He has now been included in the warm-up fixtures after taking part in a simulation match at the CoE last Friday. The India A squad features several capped internationals, including Riyan Parag, Ravi Bishnoi, Khaleel Ahmed, and Mayank Yadav, along with Naman Dhir, Ashutosh Sharma, Priyansh Arya, Gurjapneet Singh, Vipraj Nigam, Manav Suthar, and Ashok Sharma.
