Nation’s Top Pole Vaulters Dislodged From Train for ‘Unauthorised Luggage’
The nation’s elite pole vaulters, Dev Meena and Kuldeep Yadav, were dislodged from a train and stranded for hours after for carrying ‘authorised luggage’ at Panvel Railway Station. India aims to host the 2036 Olympics while their own athletes face distress and insult every step off the field. While travelling to Bhopal following the All India Inter-University Athletics Championships in Bengaluru, the duo encountered an issue. A Travelling Ticket Examiner (TTE) flagged their pole vault poles, which are specialised, five-metre-long equipment costing nearly Rs 2 lakh each, deeming the essential gear “unauthorised luggage”. This incident following the fragile sports equipment sparked outrage among people, questioning their readiness to host elite events like the 2036 Olympics. At the station the athletes were dislodged while their clarifications and pleas to talk to senior officers remained dead to the ears. The offer to pay an immediate fine was dismissed as well. In a video shared by NNIS Sports, Dev Meena, the national record holder, sagely stated, “We have been kept waiting here for four to five hours. If this is happening to us, what should I expect for my juniors?” Their impasse lasted long enough to miss the connecting train. While eventually, through thorough negotiation, the athletes were allowed to board a train, it came with serious conditions. They were admonished that even a single complaint from the passengers could cause serious action for them. It goes without saying, a pole is non-negotiable for the pole vaulters. Unlike a bat or racquet, a pole is custom-made for the athlete’s weight and jump height. The gold winner in Bengaluru, Kuldeep Yadav, conveyed his frustrations, stating, “The same problem occurs in flights, the same problem occurs in trains. Where will the athlete go? We need space to travel. Even if it costs us money, we will pay for it, but our equipment must be carried properly.” Meena further stated, “Everyone expects us to qualify for the Asian Games,” Meena noted. “But we have finished the game now. We are just sitting here waiting to see if anyone can help us.” The incident further exposed the glaring apathetic condition of the athletes in this country. While the elite sports enjoy all the limelight, these voices die out of trend.
ISL Likely to Be Limited to Four Venues
It seems all the clubs are in a competition to cut costs from their budget. As most of the clubs now prefer to play away matches instead of hosting games at home. This ruckus has, in turn, delayed the official announcement of the ISL fixture list. The most assumptive reason for this delay is apart from Mohun Bagan, East Bengal, Punjab, Delhi, and Goa, most clubs are struggling to arrange suitable home venues. Hosting matches has become financially unviable for many teams under the current circumstances, which results in the schedule that was supposed to be released last week, but couldn’t be announced yet. With the league already running behind schedule, clubs have begun tightening their budgets. The cost of maintaining and operating a home ground is proving to be a major burden. As a result, teams like NorthEast United, Mumbai City FC, Kerala Blasters, and Chennaiyin FC have expressed their preference to play away games. Mohammedan SC from Bengal has also joined this list. Meanwhile, Inter Kashi have secured a home ground but are reportedly unwilling to play there as well. They have informed the federation of their preference for away fixtures. This confusion has further complicated the fixture process for the AIFF.
Satadru Dutta Gets Bail After 37 Days of Judicial Custody
After almost 37 days, Satadru Dutta, the prime accused of the Messi controversy, was granted bail. Dutta was released on a personal bond of Rs. 10,000 along with two security bonds by Bidhannagar District Court. The Kolkata-based promoter was under judicial custody regarding the Lionel Messi controversy. Earlier this December, his bail plea was rejected by the same court. The bail came as a surprise after the prosecutors opposed his release. They tagged him as a ‘very influential’ individual, capable of fleeing if the bail was granted. While talking about his influence, the prosecutor, Bivas Chatterjee, stated, “The fact that Satadru arranged Lionel Messi’s tour speaks volumes about how influential he is. He could flee if granted bail.” The court subsequently rejected the bail plea and remanded Dutta to 14 days of judicial custody. The prosecution alleged large-scale mismanagement during the event, stating that nearly 35,000 tickets were sold, generating close to ₹19 crore in revenue. It further claimed that government property worth around ₹2 crore was damaged during the unrest, while Dutta allegedly made an unlawful gain of ₹20 lakh. Chatterjee also flagged violations of stadium regulations, alleging that potable water was permitted to be sold inside the venue. Dutta’s defence lawyer, Saumyajit Raha, tackled these claims, stating that Dutta is a promising figure organising major events. Recently, includes the successful Messi visit to Hyderabad, Delhi and Mumbai. He further clarified that the seating arrangements at the Salt Lake Stadium were inspected beforehand, and the organisers earned a no-objection certificate from Bidhannagar Police against it on 7th November. He argued that the situation escalated only after the event had concluded. He stated, “There was no violation on the organiser’s part.” Following the argument, he also expressed that the government constituted an enquiry committee after the event. The event on 13th December escalated quickly as many unauthorised individuals surrounded Messi, resulting in the rage of spectators. The Argentine footballer, visibly agitated, was escorted off the field by security personnel. The large sections of the crowd that couldn’t catch a glimpse of him triggered unrest. It declined further as spectators pelted water bottles and tore out seats. Dutta was arrested later that evening on charges of mismanagement and remained in custody until he was granted bail by the court on Monday.
Pakistan Team To Halt Their Practice To Support BCB’s Stance
The Pakistan men’s cricket team is halting their pre-departure practice session to support Bangladesh. The Pakistan Cricket Board under Mohsin Naqvi is on board with Bangladesh. Pakistan is scheduled to face Sri Lanka in three consecutive T20Is on 7th, 9th and 11th January, respectively, before the ICC Men’s T20 World Cup 2026. PCB is allegedly halting their national team’s participation in the training camp ahead of their departure to Sri Lanka. This event followed after ICC had given BCB the ultimatum and deadline. According to the report published by Geo Super, the majority of Pakistan’s white-ball coaching staff, including head coach Mike Hesson, bowling coach Ashley Noffke, fielding coach Shane McDermott, physiotherapist Cliffe Deacon, and strength and conditioning coach Grant Luden, are supposed to meet the team in Sri Lanka. Bangladesh’s primary concern about travelling to India revolves around the safety and security of its players, support staff, fans, and media personnel. Previously, Pakistan has acknowledged that these concerns are not unfounded. Pakistan Cricket Board (PCB) officials now stated that if the issue is not resolved, Pakistan may also reconsider its participation in the tournament. It was revealed on Sunday that Bangladesh has sought both cricketing and administrative support from Pakistan. The Bangladesh Cricket Board has requested Pakistan to back its demands at the ICC. A source told NDTV, “The Bangladesh government has been in contact with the Pakistan Cricket Board. They have requested Pakistan to stand by them on the issue of participating in the T20 World Cup. Bangladesh has received a positive response so far. Pakistan has reportedly said that if Bangladesh’s concerns are not addressed, they themselves might consider pulling out of the World Cup.” Pakistan are set to play their matches in Sri Lanka due to the ongoing political conflict. It was evident from the beginning that Bangladesh was probing to schedule their fixture in the island country as well. However, now after the ICC ultimatum, the BCB is trying to pressurise the BCCI with the help of the PCB. On a geopolitical level, after Bangladesh’s revolt in 2024, their relation with Pakistan has taken a positive turn. Not more than a week ago, PCB chairman Naqvi conveyed his desire to organise Bangladesh’s T20 World Cup matches on Pakistani soil. Naqvi further assured that stadiums would be kept ready for the Bangladesh team along with necessary facilities. However, the PCB is yet to make any official statement on the matter so far.
ICC Ultimatum to BCB Over World Cup Venue Dispute
The ICC has now set a deadline for the Bangladesh Cricket Board (BCB) for the T20 World Cup. The apex board has made it clear that Bangladesh must respond by 21st January. Failing to revert to this notice ICC has indicated that another team could replace them in this year’s T20 World Cup. ICC’s deadline swiftly shifted the focus towards BCB’s decision. Scotland might be the replacement option if Bangladesh withdraws from the tournament. BCB’s strong objections in playing in India followed after Mustafizur Rahman was released by KKR citing security concerns. Utilising the same argument, the Bangladesh board has now raised concerns about playing the World Cup on Indian soil. ICC amplified that these demands won’t be entertained. Previously, an ICC delegation visited Bangladesh and held discussions with BCB officials. After the meeting, the ICC firmly stated that Bangladesh’s matches cannot be shifted to any other country. The designated venues for Bangladesh’s World Cup fixtures are Eden Gardens and the Wankhede Stadium. However, the BCB has insisted that their matches be held outside India. They even proposed Pakistan as an alternative venue, but the ICC has flatly rejected the idea.
Virat’s Century in Vain as New Zealand Clinch First ODI in India
New Zealand clinch the first ever ODI win against the blue jersey in Indian soil with 2-1. Kohli’s 85th international century couldn’t safeguard ODI title for them as India loss against the Kiwi’s by 41 runs in the third and deciding match. Despite a valiant 124 from Virat Kohli, India were bowled out for 296 while chasing a daunting 338-run target. Half-centuries from Nitish Reddy and Harshit Rana kept India in the hunt. However, the visitors’ massive total proved too much to overcome. Daryl Mitchell clinch two titles under his name as the Player of the Match as well as the Player of the Series. He finished as the top scorer, amassing 352 runs in three matches at an average of 176. “It’s really nice to contribute to the team. To win here in India is special. As a group, the way we built partnerships, it’s nice to be up there. I am trying to stay in the present and hopefully make the right decisions. I love playing for my country. All those years in domestic cricket helped me,” he said. While Indian captain Shubham Gill stated, “After the first match, coming here 1-1, the way we played – disappointed. There are areas we need to look back, reflect and do better. (On the positives) The way Virat is batting is always is a plus. The way Harshit has batted in this series, batting at No. 8 is not easy. The way he stepped up and the way the fast bowlers bowled in this series was good as well,”. Earlier the day, Arshdeep Singh and Harshit Rana picked up three wickets apiece. However, centuries from Daryl Mitchell and Glenn Phillips powered New Zealand to 337 after opting to bat. Mitchell continued his fine form with his second successive ton of the series, scoring 137 off 131 balls, while Phillips hammered 106 off 88 deliveries.
Vijender Singh The Boxing Great Joins Asian Boxing Council
India’s boxing star Vijender Singh is set to become a member of the Asian Boxing Council. He has added another feather to his crown, stepping into the role of a global sports administrator. This milestone highlights his resilience, passion, and love for the sport, as his nearly two decades of experience in boxing are now celebrated in the realm of sports administration. Speaking about this development, Vijender stated, “I am honoured to be appointed as a member of the Asian Boxing Council. I would like to thank the Boxing Federation of India and its leadership for entrusting me with this responsibility.” The boxer further emphasized, “I hope to fulfil this role to the best of my ability at the international level. Just as we created history in Beijing, I am committed to working for the growth of Asian boxing, with a strong focus on Indian boxers, and helping our athletes achieve even greater success in the future.” Singh, India’s first Olympic medallist in boxing, now secures his position in a sports developmental body across the region. Vijender’s inclusion is anticipated to bring an athlete-centered perspective to policy-making, governance, and strategic planning.
Vaibhav Surpasses Virat in Men’s U-19 World Cup
Vaibhav Suryavanshi, the 14-year-old smasher, scripted yet another major record under his name. At just 14 years and 296 days, he etched his name as the youngest cricketer to reach 50-plus runs in a Men’s U-19 World Cup match. During the ongoing U-19 World Cup 2026 against Bangladesh, Suryavanshi smashed 72 off just 67 balls. His innings showcased a series of six fours and three sixes. The 14-year-old reached a stunning half-century in just 30 balls. With this remarkable feat, he surpassed Afghanistan’s Shahidullah Kamal, who had cemented a fifty against the West Indies at 15 years and 19 days. Pakistan’s Babar Azam follows Kamal, starting third on the list. Previously, Suryavanshi has also exceeded Virat Kohli on the list of Indian batters with the most runs in Youth ODIs. Vaibhav cemented a mammoth score of 1,047 runs in 20 Youth ODIs, while Virat stopped at 978 in 28 matches. However, Vijay Zol spearheaded the list for India with 1,404 runs from 36 matches. Bangladesh’s Najmul Hossain Shanto collectively leads the list with 1,820 runs.
“How Fragile Life Is”; Damien Martyn Expresses After Surviving Meningitis
Former Australian player Damien Martyn, after surviving an induced coma for eight days opened up about his experience. The two-time World Cup winner was admitted to hospital on 27 December after being diagnosed with meningitis. He came out of the induced coma and showed positive signs of recovery in the first week of January. Martyn then took to social media and shared his thoughts about life. In the post, Martyn wrote, “This post is A BIG thank you to ALL my family, friends, and so many other people who have reached out to me!” on his X post. He further emphasised, “On the 27th of December 2025 my life was taken out of my hands… when meningitis took over my brain, and unbeknownst to me, I was placed into a paralysed coma for 8 days to help me fight this awful disease.” The two-time World Cupper further emphasised, “And that I did! Fight that is!…,” he added. The 54-year-old further revealed that he faced a 50–50 chance of survival, and even normal body movements became a challenge for him. “After being given a 50/50 chance of surviving, I came out of the induced coma 8 days later… not able to walk or talk.” “And yet, four days after that, with the doctors in disbelief, I walked, I talked and proved to them all why I should be released from hospital to start my recovery. So happy to be home, to be able to put my feet in the sand on the beach and to start thanking all those people that reached out to me and my family in their unwavering support,” Martyn concluded. He further expressed his thoughts on ‘how fragile life is’ in his post on X. He wrote, “This experience has reminded me of how fragile life is, how quickly everything can change, and how precious time is!” he said. “I am so grateful to you all. Thank you! Bring on 2026… I’m back!”
Missing Captain & Lack of Handshake Leads to Controversy in U-19 World Cup
India Bangladesh snub found its way onto the field during the Under-19 World Cup 2026 Group A clash. A video trending on social media shows that during the toss, India captain Ayush Mhatre and Bangladesh’s deputy Zawad Abrar refrained from the traditional pre-match handshake. Unexpectedly, captain Azizul Hakim did not appear at the toss, despite being featured in the playing XI. After a rain-interrupted start, Abrar won the toss and opted to bowl first due to the moisture on the Bulawayo surface. In recent days, the lack of handshakes seems to be becoming a trend. Previously, in the Asia Cup 2025 and the Women’s World Cup, the Indian team refrained from shaking hands with the Pakistan skipper, focusing on contemporary political unrest between the two countries. A protest began to take stance against Pakistan, which preceded another event, as the growing unrest between the BCCI and BCB is now evident. This follows the termination of high-profile player contracts in the IPL, as well as the venue debate regarding the senior men’s T20 World Cup. After the toss, the limelight shifted to cricket. Abrar, Bangladesh’s deputy skipper, expressed confidence in his words about the bowling approach. He stated, “We will field first. The wicket looks damp and we would like to take advantage for the first 10–15 overs. We’ve prepared well, and we did well in the Asia Cup as well. We’ve got two all-rounders playing today.” India’s skipper Ayush Mhatre stated, “We also would have bowled first. The wicket looks damp, but it’s OK. Batting was a small concern. It was a small target and we should have chased it down with the loss of one or two wickets, but it’s OK. No changes for us.”
