Want to get your head around what's creating a buzz in the sporting world? This is your one-stop location.
Pant the Gladiator
Sometimes, life gives you a chance to be a hero, and for Rishabh Pant, that chance came in Manchester. With a fractured foot and pain written all over his face, Pant walked out like a gladiator. Not for theatrics, but for runs. And boy, did he deliver. He battled through and brought up a gritty fifty, dragging India past 350.
A Star is Born at 17
Meanwhile, another young warrior left jaws hanging. Just 17 years old, Unnati Hooda pulled off the biggest win of her career by defeating two-time Olympic medallist PV Sindhu in the women’s singles Round of 16 at the China Open. Though she bowed out in the quarterfinals against Japan’s Akane Yamaguchi, the message was loud and clear — a new challenger has entered the ring.
Yash Dayal’s Fall Deepens
But while one star rises, another seems to be sinking into darkness. There’s still no end in sight to Yash Dayal’s troubles. After sexual exploitation allegations, a second case has now been registered against him under the POCSO Act. An FIR has been filed accusing the RCB pacer of allegedly raping a girl over a period of two years while emotionally blackmailing her. She was just 17 when it first happened.
Indo-Pak Clash Brewing Again
Switching gears — while some veterans are opting out of playing in Pakistan at the World Championship of Legends, Team India is expected to face their arch-rivals in the Asia Cup later this year.
That’s not all — reports suggest India and Pakistan could be in the same group. If that clash happens, the fan reaction will be something to behold. The entire tournament might be held in the UAE, but BCCI will retain hosting rights.
India Eyes 2036 Olympics
And since we’re talking hosting, the Indian Olympic Association has decided to sort out its internal chaos before officially announcing a bid to host the 2036 Summer Olympics.
"Together, we are focused on a larger horizon, our long-term goal of transforming India into a global sporting powerhouse. That vision is at the heart of today's theme, powering India's sporting aspirations, IOA's Vision 2036. Our ambition is bold yet deeply rooted in possibility. By 2036, we aspire not only to achieve sustained Olympic success but also to bring the Olympic Games to India. Hosting the games will be a national milestone, one that reflects our growing capability, confidence and commitment to global excellence in sport," stated IOC President PT Usha.
From internal turbulence to chasing international glory — India wants to go for gold… right on home soil.
Also Watch: From 585 to flatline: How did Shubman Gill's form vanish?
