“ICC should come in and take some action”; Gavaskar Slams Pakistan’s World Cup Boycott Threat
Sunil Gavaskar has slammed the Pakistan Cricket Board and its players over their threat to boycott the T20 World Cup clash against India. India Pakistan match is set to take place on 15th February. However, the Pakistan government recently announced the team will skip the India game while playing the rest of the tournament. The legendary opener believes Pakistan will eventually back down. Gavaskar, while talking to India Today, stated, “I think in the next four or five days, when reactions start pouring in from across the world and even from their former players. There is a possibility that Pakistan will change their stance.” He noted that international pressure and criticism from former players would likely force a shift. He even joked about the tendency of their players to return from retirement as a sign of their unpredictability. “So something like that might happen before the 15th,” he added. If Pakistan sticks to the boycott, India will receive a walkover win. Gavaskar insists the ICC must act firmly against such a move. “If you withdraw at the last moment, on the eve of the tournament, then yes, I think certainly the ICC should come in and take some action,” he stated. He argued that the timing of the decision is the biggest issue for the sport. The World Cup begins on 7th February, with India facing the USA. The group also features Namibia and the Netherlands. Gavaskar wants the ICC to set a strong precedent. “It should be something that ensures no other team in the future also considers doing that,” he concluded.
Sreebhumi Gold Marathon Fourth Edition Returns With Renewed Grandeur
Manipal Hospitals Sreebhumi Gold Marathon 2026, the fourth edition of one of the biggest road shows in Kolkata, was unveiled with renewed grandeur. The fourth edition witnessed a significant amount of participation. The marathon was organised by the Sreebhumi Sporting Club under the aegis of Sri Sujit Bose, MLA, Bidhannagar, and President of the club, and attracted over 10,000 participants. The event featured the 21 km Half Marathon, 10 km run, and a 3 km fun run, with the latter drawing the highest turnout. Around 1,500 runners competed in the Half Marathon, 2,500 in the 10 km race, and nearly 6,000 took part in the 3 km fun run, reflecting the growing interest in running across all levels. Prize money was a key highlight, with equal rewards for men and women. Winners of the Half Marathon received ₹1 lakh each, followed by ₹75,000 and ₹50,000 for second and third places. In the 10 km category, the top three finishers were awarded ₹50,000, ₹30,000, and ₹20,000, respectively. While talking about the event, Shri Sujit Bose expressed the importance of such runs for a healthier lifestyle. He stated, “I’m an avid sports lover. I run a football team, the Sreebhumi Sports Club, for both men and women. Over the years, I’ve visited multiple top marathons in the country, especially the Tata Mumbai Marathon.” “Many of my close ones in this area have asked me to start a marathon along with my other sporting ventures, and that was the motivation to start this marathon four years ago,” he added. “Every year we have seen increased participation, and this year it has crossed 10,000. It will only grow year on year.” The marathon celebrated runners from a wide range of age groups, with awards presented in the 18–29, 30–39, 40–49, and 50-plus categories, ensuring representation across generations. The occasion gained further prominence with the presence of several distinguished figures from Indian sport. The guest list featured former international footballers Alvito D’Cunha, Jose Ramires Barreto, and Denson Devdas, noted archers Rahul Banerjee and Dola Banerjee, ex-Olympian shooter Joydeep Karmakar, and chess Grandmaster Dibyendu Barua, among others. Backed by strong organisation, expanding participation, and a clear emphasis on inclusivity and equal opportunity, the Manipal Hospitals Sreebhumi Gold Marathon continues to emerge as one of the city’s most prominent sporting events. With the Chess Candidates scheduled for March, Barua noted that R Praggnanandhaa will be the only Indian participant at the global tournament. He said, “It’s unfortunate that it’s only him at the Candidates, but I hope he wins it and we have two Indians playing in the next World Championship. “We’ve generally seen the Russians dominating, but now India is also at the helm of global chess,” he added. “Hopefully, we’ll see that continue.”
Ishan Kishan’s Smashing Century Pushes India Towards a Thrashing Win
India secured a dominant 4-1 series victory after defeating New Zealand by 46 runs in the final T20I. While the Black Caps had managed a consolation win in the previous game, India returned to full strength in Thiruvananthapuram to re-establish total control. India skipper, Suryakumar Yadav stated, “It’s been a long year, long wait. I’ve always been dreaming of this time. I’ve been following the same things, routines. I knew I wasn’t out of form. Very good series going into the World Cup.” He further stated, “I knew my time would definitely come. If you win or lose, you take something from the game. We’ll sit down, analyse our games and start our campaign. It’s hard on the bowlers, this format, but at the same time you need to have a good plan.” Arshdeep Singh spearheaded the bowling effort with a clinical five-wicket haul, ensuring the visitors could not keep up with the required rate despite a quick-fire 80 from Finn Allen. The foundation of this massive win was a historic maiden century by Ishan Kishan. The left-hander stunned the New Zealand attack, smashing 103 runs off only 43 balls at a strike rate of nearly 240. His innings, fueled by 10 sixes and a 240 strike rate, propelled India to a massive total of 271 for 5. Kishan expressed his delight, he emphasised his focus on the World Cup, stating, “I wanted to watch the ball and play accordingly. I think the plan in this team is to go for runs even if you’re close to the milestone. If the ball is there, you have to go for it and think about winning matches. I’m still not there, my focus is on the World Cup. What’s important is we carry the same form over there.” Supported by aggressive cameos from Suryakumar Yadav and Hardik Pandya, Kishan’s brilliance propelled India to 271 for 5, their third-highest total in T20I history, providing the perfect momentum heading into the T20 World Cup.
Elena Clinches 2026 Australian Open Title Stunning Sabalenka
Elena Rybakina stuns No. 1 Aryna Sabalenka to claim the 2026 Australian Open crown. She started the match with precision, breaking World No. 1 Aryna Sabalenka in the opening game to secure the first set 6-4. However, Sabalenka responded with trademark power, levelling the match by taking the second set 6-4 and sprinting to a commanding 3-0 lead in the decider. The match shifted as Rybakina found her composure under pressure. She broke Sabalenka’s serve twice in a row, winning six of the final seven games to take the third set 6-4. This victory marks Rybakina’s second career Grand Slam and her first title in Melbourne, successfully avenging her final loss from three years ago. For Sabalenka, the result marks a heartbreaking second consecutive defeat in the Australian Open final.
Injury Sidelines Pat Cumming From T20 World Cup Squad
Australia is hit with a major blow with Pat Cummins being sidelined for the ICC Men’s T20 World Cup 2026 due to injury. The Australian men’s team announced their 15-member squad. Australia squad for T20 World Cup 2026: Mitchell Marsh (c), Xavier Bartlett, Cooper Connolly, Tim David, Ben Dwarshuis, Cameron Green, Nathan Ellis, Josh Hazlewood, Travis Head, Josh Inglis, Matthew Kuhnemann, Glenn Maxwell, Matthew Renshaw, Marcus Stoinis, Adam Zampa. Selector Tony Dodemaide, an Australian selector, advocated the inclusion of Dwarshuis and Renshaw. He stated both players bring significant attributes to the squad. The ICC website quoted Dodemaide about Cumming, stating, “With Pat needing more time to recover from his back injury, Ben is a ready replacement who offers a left-arm pace option as well as dynamic fielding and late-order hitting. We believe his ability to swing the ball at a good pace along with clever variations will be well suited to the conditions we expect and the overall structure of the squad,” Dodemaide said, as quoted by the ICC website. The selector further highlighted Renshaw’s recent versatility across formats. “Matt (Renshaw) has impressed in all formats of late, including in multiple roles in white-ball formats for Australia, the Queensland Bulls and the Brisbane Heat. With the top order settled and spin-heavy conditions expected in the pool stages in Sri Lanka, we also feel Matt provides extra middle-order support, with Tim David completing his return-to-play programme in the early phase of the tournament,” Dodemaide added. Australia will start their World Cup campaign against Ireland on 11th February. They are placed in Group B alongside Ireland, Zimbabwe, Sri Lanka and Oman.
‘Unfair’: Irfan Pathan Calls Out Management on Samson Dispute
Irfan Pathan, the former India all-rounder, backed Sanju Samson on deserving a consistent position in the batting order. The star further emphasised that Samson should be provided more chances to unwind his potential. He called the middle-order decision ‘unfair’. In an interview with RevSportz, Pathan said, “Personally, I would like to see Sanju Samson getting some runs and getting the position which he is there for a long period of time, because what happened was unfair to him, right? If Samson does not score runs and the team management replaces him with Ishan Kishan, you can understand that decision.” Pathan also expressed his preference for Tilak Verma’s presence in the squad and lauded him for his ability to stay persistent under pressure. Verma was ruled out against the New Zealand series due to injury. However, he is expected to make his appearance for the World Cup. “I think this approach is really good, but I really think in this team, guys like Tilak Varma are very important. Because when there is pressure, or when the ball starts to grip, he will come into play, because he plays percentage cricket. In this team everyone plays aggressively, which is fantastic, but you need a player like Tilak Varma,” Pathan added. Sanju Samson is struggling in the T20I series against New Zealand. He has scored only 40 runs in 4 matches. This poor form has led fans and experts to question his place in the 2026 T20 World Cup squad.
‘Strike while the iron is hot.’ Rashid Latif Opens Up About Pakistan’s Stance on the T20 World Cup
Rashid Latif, former Pakistan wicketkeeper, gets candid about Pakistan’s T20 World Cup 2026 participation. In a recent encounter with a YouTube channel, CaughtBehind, Latif stated, Pakistan could still choose not to play against India. The same applies should both teams face each other in the championship match. “If the government says we won’t play against India, the ICC will have to accept it,” Latif said. “If they don’t, that’s where the real confrontation begins.” When asked what if India and Pakistan qualify for the finals, Latif bluntly replied, “Nahi khelenge” (we won’t play). He further expressed his belief that Pakistan should have pulled out from the competition immediately after Bangladesh’s demise. He said, “The time for a strike has passed. Every decision has a timing. You should strike while the iron is hot. That time was last week during the ICC meeting.” He added, “We showed our support. We voted for them. That chapter is over. If we boycott now, it won’t have the same impact.” Pakistan’s window for deciding their actions regarding the T20 World Cup 2026 has been shut, as the national board waits for the clearance from the government. PCB Chairman Mohsin Naqvi recently consulted Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif regarding Pakistan’s stance in the upcoming tournament. This follows the ICC’s decision to move the tournament from Bangladesh. While a final decision is expected by 2nd February, the board has already arranged for the team to fly to Colombo. The squad’s scheduled departure suggests Pakistan will not boycott the event. It also points to their participation in the high-stakes match against India on February 15. Although there was speculation about a withdrawal, the PCB is now likely to confirm its participation formally. Previously, Naqvi decided to give their final statement on Friday. However, the continuous delay is causing frustration amongst the fraternity.
Bengal’s Performance Raising Concern After Draw Against Assam
Bengal face a tough situation before the knockout stage, as they complete a 1-1 draw against Assam. Sanjay Sen’s cadets couldn’t secure the lead even after staying at a three-point advantage. Coach Sanjay Sen sought a victory but decided to rest key players like Rabi Hansda and Uttam Hansda. Bengal started aggressively and missed several early opportunities to take the lead. Akash Hembram finally broke the deadlock in the 32nd minute with a clinical finish. This goal allowed Bengal to head into the halftime break with a 1-0 advantage. Bengal entered their fifth Santosh Trophy group match against Assam after a 1-1 draw with Tamil Nadu. Assam returned with much more intensity in the second half. They missed a major chance to equalise in the 51st minute when a striker failed to beat the goalkeeper. Bengal nearly doubled their lead in the 57th minute, but the Assam goalkeeper made a brilliant save. Assam continued to press and hit the crossbar in the 78th minute. Their persistence paid off in the 82nd minute when Rituraj converted a penalty to level the score. The match ended in a 1-1 draw, leaving Bengal at the top of the group with 11 points. Despite qualifying for the knockouts, the performance raised several concerns for the coaching staff. The defence appeared vulnerable, and the midfield struggled to maintain control against the opposition. Coach Sanjay Sen must now address these tactical weaknesses before the quarter-finals begin.
Chennaiyin FC Rope In Sixth Foreigner Eduardo Kau for ISL
Chennaiyin FC has successfully roped in their sixth foreign addition to the squad, Brazilian defender Eduardo Kau, along with Spanish forward Inigo Martin. The Marina Machans are leaving no room for mistakes while reshaping the squad before the Indian Super League 2025-26 season. Kau brings a 6’3” prowess with great physical presence, aerial strength for the squad. The defender has the potential to become the wall for the team and the capability to attack from the back. Needless to say, this is a desired addition for the coach Clifford Miranda. Kau has prior experience in Asian football. He has played in Indonesia with Persikabo 1973 and in Thailand with Ayutthaya United. These spells should help him adapt quickly in India, as the travel demands, climate, and physical intensity are similar. Before moving to Asia, Kau developed his game in Brazil with Avaí. He later gained European experience in Portugal with B-SAD (Belenenses). He has also played in Portugal’s Primeira Liga, which exposed him to top-level tactical systems. That background, combined with his mobility and left-footed distribution, makes him a top-tier signing. He is expected to add structure and stability rather than provide headline appeal. Chennaiyin have already confirmed the signing of Spanish attacker Iñigo Martín. The 26-year-old will experience Indian football for the first time. Primarily a centre-forward, he is also comfortable playing across the frontline. This gives the team added flexibility in both shape and in-game adjustments. Martín arrives after spells in Spain, Andorra, and Georgia. Those experiences have exposed him to different footballing environments. He offers movement and tactical versatility in the final third. He joins Alberto Noguera, Mohammed Ali Bemammer, and Imran Khan as Chennaiyin’s latest additions. Martin expressed his gratitude after signing, “It’s a big opportunity for me and a new challenge in my career. I am really proud to be part of this family, and I can’t wait to get started. I have a very good feeling about the Head Coach and the team. I believe he can help me improve as a player. I’m ready to learn, work hard, and adapt quickly. Playing in India is a new experience for me, and I’m approaching it with a lot of respect and motivation. I want to make the fans happy.” Born in Bilbao, Martín started his football career at Arenas. He rose through the youth setup and later competed in Spain’s lower leagues. After that, he moved overseas to further his development. He made a strong impact with FC Santa Coloma in Andorra. He later gained experience in Georgia with FC Samtredia and FC Telavi. These spells allowed him to adapt to different tactical demands and competitive settings. These two signings reflect Chennaiyin FC’s ongoing rebuild. The emphasis is on balance and adaptability. Recruitment is being shaped by the coach’s tactical ideas rather than headline appeal.
Cricketers Wearing Mask on Ranji Match, Raising Health Concern as Dust Chokes BKC Ground
The cricketers are seen wearing masks during the ongoing Ranji Trophy match between Mumbai and Delhi at the Bandra Kurla Complex (BKC) Ground. While Delhi pollution has no bounds, surprisingly, it’s Mumbai where the players seem to struggle to breathe. During the first day’s play on 29th January, the Air Quality Index (AQI) was noted around 160, which is categorised as ‘unhealthy’. Construction work near the MCG-BKC Ground caused the air quality to drop. This led to a higher AQI in the area. The players had to continue the game despite the poor conditions. Sarfaraz Khan and his brother Musheer Khan were seen wearing surgical masks. Many other cricketers wore them as well. These masks do not filter PM 2.5 pollutants effectively. However, the players used the only resources they had. Mumbai pacer Mohit Avasthi spoke about the situation on Day 1. He noted that nearby building construction made breathing difficult for the players. He confirmed this was why they wore the masks. The Mumbai team has now filed a formal complaint with the MCA. They are urging the association to contact the Maharashtra Pollution Control Board. They want the authorities to address the issue of construction dust. A report published in The Times of India, The Mumbai team has now filed a formal complaint with the MCA. They are urging the association to contact the Maharashtra Pollution Control Board. They want the authorities to address the issue of construction dust. A Mumbai team source told the TOI: “Mumbai’s team management has written to the MCA regarding the pollution caused by the under-construction building nearby, which has led to a significant amount of dust on the ground. Players and support staff sitting outside the dressing room were also forced to wear masks. In fact, a few players from the Delhi team even requested masks from us. Running on the field is incredibly difficult in such conditions.” However, no formal actions have been taken by BCCI or the state association.
