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Iyer Captaincy Buzz: A Smokescreen?
Was the chatter around Shreyas Iyer becoming India’s ODI captain only floated to calm fans upset over his Asia Cup omission? When asked about it, BCCI secretary Devajit Saikia dismissed the reports, saying, “That’s news to me. There have been no such discussions.”
And logically, Shubman Gill was India’s vice-captain in the Champions Trophy. So how does Iyer suddenly leapfrog to captaincy, especially when Gill is already leading in Tests?
USA Cricket vs ACE: Is MLC Dead?
In a shock move, USA Cricket terminated its commercial agreement with American Cricket Enterprise (ACE), the company behind Major League Cricket (MLC). On paper, MLC stands cancelled.
But can such a successful league really be scrapped? Not so simple. The deal gave ACE exclusive 50-year rights to operate elite T20 cricket in the US, in return for six stadiums and pro leagues. USA Cricket claims ACE failed to deliver on infrastructure and delayed payments, but ACE has denied all allegations.
So, is MLC finished? Unlikely. Four of the six franchises are IPL-owned, the brand has traction, and USA Cricket itself has said it is “open to immediate negotiation.” With 10 months before the next season, expect some off-field drama but a likely revival.
Nottingham Forest Land Douglas Luiz
Nottingham Forest have signed midfielder Douglas Luiz from Juventus on a season-long loan, with a conditional obligation to become a permanent deal next summer.
The Brazilian returns to England after a year in Serie A, where he featured in 27 games for Juve, including appearances in the Champions League, Italian Super Cup, and FIFA Club World Cup. Forest will hope his Aston Villa experience translates into a strong Premier League impact.
Djokovic Eyeing 25th Grand Slam
Novak Djokovic is set to return to singles action at the US Open on August 25 against unseeded Learner Tien.
The 38-year-old hasn’t played singles since his Wimbledon semi-final loss to Jannik Sinner, having skipped the Toronto and Cincinnati warm-up tournaments. His only recent outing was in mixed doubles at New York’s revamped event, where he and his partner bowed out after just 43 minutes.
Also Watch: 'We will not..': Sports Ministry's verdict on India vs Pakistan at Asia Cup
