The Economic Times

Former Afghanistan fast bowler Shapoor Zadran has passed away at thirty-eight. He succumbed to a rare immune disorder known as HLH. Zadran represented Afghanistan in forty-four ODIs and thirty-six T20Is. He was a key figure in the country's cricket development. His contributions will remain a significant part of cricket history.

France, boasting a formidable attack led by Kylian Mbappe, faces Paraguay in the World Cup's last-16. Despite their impressive scoring record, coach Didier Deschamps and Mbappe emphasize staying grounded against a tenacious South American side. Paraguay, seeking revenge for a 1998 loss, will present a stern defensive challenge, making France's game management and potential substitutions, like Rayan Cherki, crucial for advancing.

FIFA World Cup match: Belgium staged a stunning comeback against Senegal, winning 3-2 after extra time thanks to Youri Tielemans' record-breaking 124th-minute penalty. This marked the latest goal ever in World Cup history. Belgium also overcame their latest two-goal deficit in regulation, with Romelu Lukaku and Tielemans scoring late to force extra time. Senegal's Ismaila Sarr had a brace, but their historic campaign ended in heartbreak.

Folarin Balogun netted his third World Cup goal before a red card, but Malik Tillman's late free-kick secured a 2-0 victory for the 10-man United States against Bosnia-Herzegovina. This win propels the Americans into the round of 16, where they will face Belgium in Seattle. The U.S. squad is aiming for a significant run in the expanded tournament on home soil.

Abhishek Sharma's rapid 59 and Shreyas Iyer's steady 68 offered India a glimmer of hope in their T20I opener against England. Despite a rain-abandoned match, their strong batting display, posting 189/7, marked a significant improvement. The duo's partnership and Sharma's quickfire fifty provided a much-needed boost after recent batting struggles, setting a competitive target before the weather intervened.

The Competition Commission of India has greenlit a massive $1.78 billion deal, allowing a consortium led by Aditya Birla Group and The Times of India to acquire Royal Challengers Sports Pvt Ltd, the entity behind the IPL and WPL franchises. Aryaman Vikram Birla will chair the franchise, with Satyan Gajwani as vice-chairman.

Australia aims for another Women's T20 World Cup final as they face the West Indies in the semifinal. Unbeaten in the group stage, the dominant Australians, six-time champions, clash with a West Indies side that secured their spot after a mixed campaign. The match, held at Kennington Oval, promises an exciting encounter with Australia holding the edge.

Gabriel Martinelli's dramatic 95th-minute strike secured Brazil a thrilling 2-1 victory over Japan, propelling them into the World Cup last 16. After falling behind to Kaishu Sano's solo effort, veteran Casemiro equalized for the five-time champions. The win sets up a knockout clash against Ivory Coast or Norway, with Brazil showcasing resilience despite a tough challenge from the spirited Japanese side.

India's cricket team is reeling from a surprising 2-0 T20 series loss to Ireland in Belfast. Assistant coach Ryan ten Doeschate attributed the defeat to the team's inability to adapt to the local conditions, particularly the pitch and larger boundaries, after their IPL experience. He emphasized the need for greater adaptability ahead of their upcoming England tour.

India's T20 World Cup 2026 journey concluded as Australia secured a dramatic six-wicket victory at Lord's. Chasing 171, the defending champions mounted a remarkable comeback, with Ellyse Perry and Ashleigh Gardner smashing half-centuries to overhaul the target. Despite a strong start and Harmanpreet Kaur's fiery unbeaten 56, India's bowlers couldn't defend the competitive total, leading to their exit from the tournament.

India Women vs Australia Women Live Streaming: A thrilling encounter awaits as India faces Australia at Lord's on Sunday, June 28, for a crucial ICC Women's T20 World Cup semifinal spot. While Australia is nearly through, India needs a win to guarantee their place. A loss could see their fate hinge on other results. The match promises a balanced contest, with early assistance for pacers and spinners expected to dominate later.

Ancy Sojan shattered Anju Bobby George's 22-year-old long jump record with a stunning 6.88m leap at the National Inter-State Athletics Championships. She dedicated her gold medal to her father, fulfilling his dream. Meanwhile, Sarvesh Anil Kushare also set a new men's high jump national record, clearing 2.31m. Several other meet records also fell, with many athletes achieving Asian Games qualification.

Austria secured a dramatic 3-3 draw against Algeria with two stoppage-time goals, propelling both teams into the Round of 32. Marko Arnautovic and Marcel Sabitzer scored for Austria, while Riyad Mahrez netted twice for Algeria. Sasa Kalajdzic's late equalizer sealed Austria's second-place finish in Group J, setting up a clash with Spain. Algeria advanced as a best third-placed team to face Switzerland.

FIFA World Cup Jordan vs Argentina: Lionel Messi has etched his name in World Cup history, becoming the first player to score in seven consecutive matches. His stunning free-kick against Jordan secured this remarkable feat, surpassing legends like Just Fontaine and Jairzinho. This scoring spree, which began in Qatar, continued through the 2026 finals, extending his record tally of World Cup goals to an impressive 19. Messi's consistent brilliance continues to captivate football fans worldwide.

Colombia and Portugal battled to a thrilling 0-0 draw in Miami, securing their spots in the World Cup's last 32 as Group K's top two. Despite Colombia's missed opportunities and dominance, they advance as group winners. Portugal, unable to find a winning formula despite their talent, also progresses.

Spain defeated Uruguay 1-0 to finish top of Group H and qualify for the FIFA World Cup knockout stage, with Alex Baena scoring the decisive goal. The 24-year-old Atletico Madrid winger netted his first World Cup goal, continuing his rise after spells with Villarreal and Girona. The defeat knocked Uruguay out of the tournament.

Cape Verde's incredible World Cup debut continues as they secured a 0-0 draw against Saudi Arabia, propelling them into the knockout stages. This historic achievement, fueled by three group stage draws, sets them up for a monumental clash against Lionel Messi's Argentina. The island nation is one of the smallest ever to compete.