The Indian women’s hockey team begins its FIH Women’s Hockey World Cup 2026 campaign against China on Sunday, with the Pool D encounter scheduled for 4:30 PM IST at the Wagener Hockey Stadium in Amstelveen, Netherlands. India enters the tournament after winning the 2026 Nations Cup and will look to carry that momentum into a challenging group-stage campaign. (mint)

China presents a difficult opening test. India is ranked ninth in the world, while China are ranked second, according to recent FIH rankings. The two teams are joined by England and South Africa in Pool D, making every result important in the race for qualification. (mint)

China Starts With Advantage

India's recent record against China gives the Asian rivals an additional edge. China defeated India 4-1 in the 2025 Asia Cup final, while the Chinese team also won silver at the Paris Olympics.

India will therefore need to avoid conceding early goals and maintain its structure against a side that has established itself among the world's leading teams.

The Indian squad, however, comes into the tournament with renewed confidence after its Nations Cup success. Goalkeeper Savita Punia has also said the team now believes it can compete against the world's best. (The News Mill)

Savita Makes Third World Cup

Veteran goalkeeper Savita Punia is one of India's most experienced players at the tournament. This will be her third Women's Hockey World Cup appearance.

Punia has more than 300 international caps and remains an important presence in India's defensive unit. Her experience could prove particularly valuable against China's attacking pressure and during penalty-corner situations.

The tournament also represents an important opportunity for a younger Indian squad, with several players entering their first World Cup campaign.

Navneet Leads Attacking Threat

Forward Navneet Kaur is expected to be among India's key attacking players. She has been an established member of the national team for years and has continued to contribute goals in recent international competitions.

Drag-flick specialist Deepika is another player India will rely on for scoring opportunities, particularly from penalty corners. She was among India's important performers during the Nations Cup campaign.

The combination of experienced forwards and younger players could determine how effectively India converts its opportunities against China.

Young Squad Faces Test

India has entered the World Cup with a squad containing a significant number of players making their first appearance at the tournament.

Captain Salima Tete will lead the side, while Dutch coach Sjoerd Marijne will oversee the team's tactical approach. The squad includes experienced campaigners such as Savita, Navneet, Lalremsiami and Sushila Chanu alongside younger players.

India's best-ever finish at the Women's Hockey World Cup remains fourth place in the inaugural 1974 edition. The team finished eighth in 2018 and ninth in 2022. (The News Mill)

Nations Cup Win Boosts Confidence

India's recent Nations Cup triumph has given the squad an important confidence boost ahead of the World Cup. Savita has pointed to close contests against leading sides as evidence that India can challenge higher-ranked opponents. (The News Mill)

Captain Salima Tete has also stressed the importance of staying composed, following the team's plan and continuing to fight until the final whistle against China. (The Times of India)

India’s Pool D Challenge

The China match is the first of India's three Pool D fixtures. England and South Africa will provide further tests during the group stage.

With China ranked among the world's top teams, a positive result in the opener would give India an early boost. A defeat, meanwhile, would increase the pressure on the remaining pool matches.

The Women's Hockey World Cup is being jointly hosted by Belgium and the Netherlands from August 14 to 30, with India's opening-phase matches being played in Amstelveen. Indian viewers can follow the tournament through Star Sports and JioHotstar. (IndulgExpress)

India will face arch-rivals Pakistan on August 19 in one of the most anticipated matches of the 2026 Hockey World Cup, with the men’s tournament set to begin in the Netherlands and Belgium on August 15.

The men’s and women’s Hockey World Cups will be played across venues in the Netherlands and Belgium, with the tournaments featuring a revamped format. Unlike previous editions, there will be no quarter-finals in the 2026 competition.

India’s men’s team has been drawn in Pool D alongside England, Pakistan and Wales. Harmanpreet Singh-led India will begin its campaign against Wales on August 15 before taking on England on August 17 and Pakistan on August 19.

India’s Group Stage Schedule

The opening matches will be particularly important under the new tournament structure. India will have to finish among the top two teams in Pool D to progress to the next stage.

The group-stage schedule is:

• August 15: India vs Wales

• August 17: India vs England

• August 19: India vs Pakistan

The clash against Pakistan is expected to attract considerable attention given the long-standing rivalry between the two hockey teams.

New Format Removes Quarter-Finals

The 2026 World Cup will feature 16 teams divided into four pools of four teams each.

The top two teams from every pool will advance to the second stage, taking the total number of teams into the next round to eight.

These eight teams will then be divided into two groups. The top two teams from each of those groups will qualify directly for the semi-finals.

This means teams cannot afford a poor start in the opening pool because results from the first stage can have consequences in the subsequent group phase.

India head coach Craig Fulton has also stressed the importance of finishing in the top two. The results against the teams that advance alongside India could become particularly significant when the second stage begins.

India’s World Cup Record

India has been a part of the Hockey World Cup since the inaugural edition in 1971.

The men's team has appeared at the tournament 15 times and has won the title once.

India's only World Cup triumph came in 1975, when the team defeated Pakistan in the final in Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia.

The historic victory remains India's only men's Hockey World Cup title.

The team will now look to build on its recent international performances and challenge for another title under Harmanpreet Singh's leadership.

Women’s World Cup Begins August 15

The Women’s Hockey World Cup will also begin on August 15 in the Netherlands and Belgium.

The women's competition will follow the same broad 16-team structure, with four pools of four teams.

India has been placed in Pool D alongside China, England and South Africa.

The Indian women's team will begin its campaign against China on August 16. It will then face South Africa on August 18 before taking on England on August 20.

India's women's team therefore faces a demanding pool, with every match carrying significance under the revised qualification structure.

Women Yet to Win World Cup

India's women's hockey team made its World Cup debut in 1974.

Including the 2026 edition, the team has participated in the tournament nine times but is yet to win the title.

The women's team will therefore enter the Netherlands and Belgium tournament looking to create history and secure India's first Women's Hockey World Cup crown.

World Cup Schedule

The Hockey World Cup will run until August 30, with the semi-finals scheduled for August 28 and 29.

The men's bronze-medal match is scheduled for August 30 at 5:30 pm, followed by the men's final at 8 pm.

The women's final will be played on August 29 at 7:30 pm.

With India featuring in both competitions and the men's team facing Pakistan on August 19, the tournament is set to be a major test for Indian hockey on the international stage.

 Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Monday praised boxer Lovlina Borgohain for raising an objection after noticing a map of India that omitted the Northeast at a restaurant in Glasgow, Scotland. Modi said the incident reflected a sense of national pride that went beyond sporting achievements.

The Prime Minister referred to a video of the incident while interacting with India's medal winners from the 2026 Commonwealth Games at his official residence. Borgohain, who won a silver medal in the 75kg category, had questioned the management of Mister Singh's India after noticing the map printed on its menus, napkins and other material.

The Assam-born boxer reportedly approached the restaurant staff during a dinner attended by members of the Indian boxing contingent following their performance at the Games.

Lovlina raises concern

During the interaction, Modi asked Borgohain about the incident in a light-hearted manner, asking whether she had "fought" with the restaurant staff.

Borgohain explained that the issue came to her attention during the team's celebratory dinner. She said she felt uncomfortable after seeing the map and decided to speak to the restaurant management.

According to Borgohain, she made the request firmly but politely and the restaurant agreed to address the issue.

The boxer said the management subsequently made changes following her intervention.

Modi praises her response

Modi described Borgohain's actions as an example of how national pride can remain strong even away from the sporting arena.

The Prime Minister said that noticing the map immediately after an emotional sporting victory showed that her connection with the country was not limited to the moment of receiving a medal.

He also praised the video of the incident, saying that Borgohain's response would be remembered for a long time.

The episode attracted attention on social media after the video showed the boxer explaining to restaurant representatives why the omission of the Northeast was upsetting.

What happened in Glasgow?

The incident took place at Mister Singh's India, a restaurant visited by members of the Indian boxing team during their celebrations in Glasgow.

Borgohain noticed that the map used by the establishment did not show India's Northeast region correctly. She then approached the management and explained why the issue was particularly sensitive for someone from the region.

In the video, she was seen maintaining a calm tone while asking the restaurant to correct the representation in the future.

The issue subsequently gained wider attention after the footage circulated online.

Restaurant issues apology

Following the controversy, the restaurant management apologised and said it would make changes to the affected materials.

The establishment agreed to modify its logo and printed material containing the map. Boxing Federation of India president Ajay Singh also said that the restaurant responded promptly and respectfully after the issue was brought to its attention.

The episode therefore ended without a prolonged confrontation, with the restaurant agreeing to address the concern.

India’s strong boxing performance

Borgohain's intervention came after India's successful campaign at the 2026 Commonwealth Games.

The Indian boxing contingent finished at the top of the boxing medal table after winning 10 medals — seven gold and three silver.

India ended the overall Commonwealth Games campaign in fourth place with 39 medals, comprising 13 gold, 17 silver and nine bronze.

The 2026 Games also marked an important moment for India as Scotland formally handed over the Commonwealth Games flag and ceremonial baton to the country. Ahmedabad is scheduled to host the centenary edition of the Commonwealth Games in 2030.

For Borgohain, the Glasgow episode became a moment away from the boxing ring that drew almost as much public attention as her sporting achievement. Her decision to raise the issue directly, while keeping the conversation respectful, was subsequently highlighted by the Prime Minister as an example of national pride expressed through everyday actions.

England white-ball head coach Brendon McCullum has thrown his full support behind Joe Root's return as England's Test captain, calling him the ideal leader to guide the team through its transition period. At the same time, McCullum revealed that Harry Brook is being developed as England's long-term captain for the red-ball format.

McCullum backs Root's leadership

McCullum praised the England and Wales Cricket Board's (ECB) decision to hand the Test captaincy back to Root following Ben Stokes' retirement. He believes Root's experience, leadership qualities, and understanding of the game make him the perfect choice to lead England during a rebuilding phase. 

Harry Brook seen as future captain

While backing Root for the present, McCullum made it clear that Harry Brook is a key part of England's long-term leadership plans. He said the young batter will be mentored and developed to eventually take over the Test captaincy in the future. 

Stephen Fleming's arrival welcomed

McCullum also praised the appointment of Stephen Fleming as England's new Test head coach, saying his vast coaching experience will strengthen the red-ball side and help shape the team's future

England enters rebuilding phase

With Root back as captain, Fleming taking charge of the Test team, and Brook being groomed for leadership, England appears to be focused on building a stable long-term structure after a period of transition. The changes are aimed at restoring consistency and strengthening England's position in Test cricket.

Indian Grandmaster R Praggnanandhaa added another major milestone to his career by winning the Saint Louis Rapid & Blitz tournament, part of the prestigious Grand Chess Tour (GCT), in the United States. The 20-year-old secured the title with one round remaining after drawing against Uzbekistan's Javokhir Sindarov in the penultimate round.

Praggnanandhaa finished the tournament with 23 points out of a possible 35, ending 1.5 points ahead of the second-placed player to claim his first-ever Grand Chess Tour Rapid & Blitz title.

Dominant Performance Throughout the Tournament

The Indian star maintained his lead from the rapid section and carried the momentum into the blitz rounds. His consistent performances ensured he built an unassailable advantage before the final round, making the last game irrelevant to the championship outcome.

ChessBase India Confirms Historic Achievement

ChessBase India announced Praggnanandhaa's victory on social media, confirming that it marked his maiden Grand Chess Tour Rapid & Blitz title. Winning the tournament before the final round underlined his dominance against a field featuring some of the world's strongest grandmasters.

Another Major Title in a Dream Year

The Saint Louis triumph continues Praggnanandhaa's remarkable run in 2026. Earlier in June, he won the Norway Chess title by defeating Germany's Vincent Keymer in the final round. He secured that prestigious crown after registering four consecutive classical victories.

Honoured by Tamil Nadu Government

Following his Norway Chess success, Tamil Nadu Chief Minister C. Joseph Vijay felicitated Praggnanandhaa at the Secretariat in Chennai. The Sports Development Authority of Tamil Nadu (SDAT) awarded him a ₹50 lakh cash prize in recognition of his achievement. During the ceremony, the Chief Minister also played a few chess moves with the young champion.

A Chess Prodigy from Chennai

Born on August 10, 2005, in Chennai, Praggnanandhaa became a Grandmaster in 2018 at the age of 12 years, 10 months, and 13 days, making him India's youngest Grandmaster at the time and the world's second-youngest. His sister, R Vaishali, is also a Grandmaster and an accomplished international player.

Grand Chess Tour Success

The Saint Louis Rapid & Blitz is one of the marquee events on the Grand Chess Tour, featuring elite players from around the globe. With this victory, Praggnanandhaa has strengthened his reputation as one of the brightest stars in world chess and added another prestigious international title to his growing list of achievements.

The Asian Cricket Council (ACC) has officially unveiled the schedule for the Women's Asia Cup 2026, with the tournament set to be played in the United Arab Emirates (UAE) from August 28 to September 13. One of the biggest highlights of the competition will be the highly anticipated India vs Pakistan clash, scheduled for September 5 at the Dubai International Stadium.

The tournament will feature eight teams competing in the T20 format, serving as an important preparation event ahead of the upcoming Asian Games.

Eight Teams Divided into Two Groups

The participating teams have been split into two groups:

Group A

• India

• Pakistan

• Thailand

• Hong Kong

Group B

• Sri Lanka

• Bangladesh

• UAE

• Indonesia

Each team will play league-stage matches before the top teams advance to the knockout rounds.

India's Campaign

India will kick off its Women's Asia Cup campaign against Thailand on August 30 before facing Hong Kong on September 3.

The biggest league-stage fixture will be the blockbuster encounter against Pakistan on September 5, expected to be one of the most-watched matches of the tournament.

Sri Lanka Enter as Defending Champions

Sri Lanka will begin the tournament as the defending champions after defeating India in the previous Women's Asia Cup final. The Lankan side will look to retain the title, while India will aim to reclaim the championship.

Knockout Stage

The top teams from each group will qualify for the semifinals.

• Semi-final 1: September 10

• Semi-final 2: September 11

• Final: September 13

All matches are scheduled to begin at 8:00 PM (IST).

South Africa Tour Schedule Revised

Separately, Cricket South Africa has revised the schedule for India's women's tour later this year.

In addition to the previously announced ODI series and one-off Test, a three-match T20I series has now been included.

The updated schedule is:

• One-off Test: December 9–12

• ODI Series: December 16–22

• T20I Series: December 26–30

The additional T20Is will provide valuable match practice ahead of future international assignments.

Women's Asia Cup 2026 – Full Schedule

New Delhi: The Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI) has reportedly introduced stricter fitness standards for Indian cricketers in an effort to improve player conditioning and reduce recurring injuries. According to a report by The Times of India, the board has revised the benchmark for the Bronco fitness test, making it more challenging for players seeking selection in the national team.

Under the revised guidelines, players will now be required to complete the 1,200-metre Bronco Test within 5 minutes and 15 to 20 seconds, compared to the earlier benchmark of around six minutes. The board has also introduced a 2-kilometre running test, with players expected to finish the distance within 9 to 10 minutes. These new standards are expected to become the primary benchmarks for evaluating match fitness, replacing the Yo-Yo test that had been widely used over the past several years.

The changes have reportedly been recommended by the BCCI Centre of Excellence (CoE) in Bengaluru after concerns over increasing injury cases and declining fitness levels among players. Officials believe that maintaining higher physical standards will help reduce injuries and improve overall athletic performance across formats.

Along with the revised fitness tests, the BCCI has also established fresh baseline parameters aimed at improving coordination between the national team's medical staff, strength and conditioning experts and the Centre of Excellence. The objective is to ensure that fitness assessments are carried out more consistently before players are cleared for international duty.

According to the report, the board has reviewed several recent injury cases and concluded that fitness standards were not always enforced uniformly. Sources indicated that in some instances, players received clearance despite not being fully match fit. These concerns have prompted the BCCI to tighten its monitoring process and adopt a stricter approach going forward.

The report also referred to fast bowler Harshit Rana and all-rounder Nitish Kumar Reddy, whose fitness clearances reportedly became a subject of internal discussion. Harshit was sent back during India's England tour after concerns over his physical condition. Team officials reportedly believed his body weight was above the desired level. The Centre of Excellence has now set a target weight of under 96 kilograms, and reports suggest he has already reduced his weight to around 94 kilograms, bringing him closer to full fitness.

The BCCI has also reportedly sought explanations from the national team's medical department following repeated injury setbacks over the past year. Concerns have been raised after several players suffered muscle strains and cramps even while playing in favourable overseas conditions.

Sources indicate that the board has asked team physiotherapist Kamlesh Jain to immediately report any decline in a player's fitness regardless of seniority or reputation. The management is believed to have observed that some senior players have experienced reduced mobility on the field and have struggled while running between the wickets during long innings.

Kamlesh Jain has been serving as India's team physiotherapist since 2022, after succeeding Nitin Patel.

Another issue highlighted in the report is the coordination between the Centre of Excellence and the Indian team management. Fast bowler Jasprit Bumrah, who was expected to recover in time for the opening Test against Sri Lanka, reportedly could not achieve the required fitness level within the projected timeline, leading to his absence from the series opener.

Some centrally contracted players were also reportedly surprised after being introduced to the revised fitness parameters shortly before the Sri Lanka tour. Fast bowler Mohammed Siraj, according to the report, encountered the updated Bronco and 2K running tests during his visit to the Centre of Excellence before the tour.

The board has now advised even players who are not part of the current Test squad to begin training according to the revised fitness benchmarks so that future assessments remain uniform across all formats.

While the stricter standards are intended to improve player fitness, experts have also cautioned against excessive physical workload. Reports suggest that players are now undergoing repeated Bronco, Yo-Yo and endurance tests more frequently than before. Sports science specialists believe that overtraining without adequate recovery can increase both physical fatigue and mental burnout, potentially raising the risk of injuries rather than preventing them.

During India's successful campaigns in the 2023 ODI World Cup, 2024 T20 World Cup and 2025 Champions Trophy, player workload was reportedly managed more carefully, with fitness tests generally conducted only during injury rehabilitation or at scheduled intervals.

The revised policy signals the BCCI's intention to place greater emphasis on long-term fitness management as Indian cricket prepares for a packed international calendar over the coming years.

New Delhi: Former India vice-captain Ajinkya Rahane has advised cricket fans and experts against rushing to predict Vaibhav Suryavanshi's future in Test cricket, saying the teenage sensation should be given time to grow without unnecessary expectations. Rahane believes it is still too early to judge whether the 15-year-old is ready for the longest format of the game, especially considering the significant difference between franchise cricket and international competition.

Speaking on the 'Stick to Cricket' podcast alongside former England cricketers David Lloyd, Phil Tufnell, Alastair Cook and Michael Vaughan, Rahane said young players perform best when they are allowed to progress naturally rather than being burdened with comparisons and expectations at an early stage.

According to Rahane, the excitement surrounding Vaibhav's performances is understandable, but discussions about his Test career should be approached with caution. He said the youngster has already attracted enormous attention after his breakthrough performances and should now be given enough opportunities to continue learning and improving his game.

The former India batter pointed out that success in the Indian Premier League (IPL) should not automatically be seen as an indicator of readiness for Test cricket. While explosive batting can change the course of a T20 match within a few overs, Rahane said performing consistently at the international level requires a completely different mindset, technique and temperament.

He explained that scoring quick runs in franchise cricket and succeeding against international bowling attacks are two very different challenges. According to him, players need time to adapt to different formats, conditions and the mental demands of representing the country.

Rahane also said he does not want additional pressure to be placed on the teenager, noting that conversations around Vaibhav have already reached extraordinary levels. He believes the best approach is to allow the youngster to enjoy his cricket and continue developing without being weighed down by expectations of immediate success in every format.

Vaibhav's introduction to international cricket produced mixed results. He made his debut during India's T20I series against England but found the transition difficult, managing only 42 runs in three matches. Despite the modest start, selectors retained confidence in him for the subsequent tour of Zimbabwe, where he responded with a series of impressive performances.

The left-handed batter announced his arrival by scoring a half-century in the opening T20I against Zimbabwe before contributing 20 runs in the second match. He then capped off the series with an outstanding 81-run innings in the final game, finishing as one of India's standout performers.

His performances earned him the Player of the Series award and significantly strengthened his reputation as one of India's brightest young batting prospects. The series also highlighted his ability to recover quickly from early setbacks, something many former cricketers have described as a valuable quality for long-term success.

Vaibhav's strong showing against Zimbabwe also had a major impact on the ICC Men's T20I Batting Rankings. He climbed an impressive 230 places to reach 48th position with 536 rating points, entering the top 50 for the first time in his career.

Rahane, who officially retired from international cricket on July 30, believes India should continue investing in young talents while ensuring they are not rushed into roles before they are fully prepared. The veteran represented India in 85 Tests, 90 One-Day Internationals and 20 T20Is, building a career that included several memorable performances both at home and overseas.

His comments come at a time when Indian cricket is entering a new phase, with several young players emerging as potential long-term options across formats. While Vaibhav's talent has impressed fans and experts alike, Rahane's message is clear: patience remains just as important as potential.

As discussions continue around India's next generation of cricketers, selectors and team management are expected to focus on giving promising youngsters adequate opportunities while allowing them to progress steadily through international cricket.

Miami: Lionel Messi once again proved why he remains one of football's biggest stars, producing a brilliant all-round performance to guide Inter Miami to a 4-2 victory over Atletico San Luis in the Leagues Cup. The Argentine captain scored two goals and provided an assist as Miami recovered from an early deficit to continue their impressive run in the tournament.

The match, played at Nu Stadium, was briefly interrupted by severe weather, with the second half delayed for around 30 minutes due to lightning in the area. Despite the disruption, Inter Miami maintained control after taking the lead and eventually secured another important victory.

San Luis made the brighter start and stunned the home crowd in the fourth minute when David Rodríguez headed his side into an early lead. However, the advantage lasted only a few minutes as Messi quickly responded with his trademark composure.

The 39-year-old found the equaliser in the 11th minute, finishing confidently after being picked out by Noah Allen. The goal immediately shifted the momentum in Inter Miami's favour as the hosts began dominating possession and creating regular chances.

Messi struck again just before half-time, scoring his second goal of the evening in the 44th minute to hand Miami a deserved lead. His movement inside the penalty area and clinical finishing once again highlighted the quality that has made him one of football's greatest players.

The Argentine wasn't finished there. Deep into first-half stoppage time, Messi delivered a precise cross that defender Micael converted with a header, extending Miami's advantage before the break. Midfielder Telasco Segovia also found the net as Inter Miami completed an impressive comeback performance.

For Atletico San Luis, Rafa Llorente added another goal, but the visitors were unable to recover after Miami established control of the contest.

Messi's latest performance also saw him reach another significant milestone. The two goals took his tally to 14 goals in 12 Leagues Cup appearances, making him the tournament's all-time leading scorer. He moved ahead of Los Angeles FC forward Denis Bouanga, who previously shared the record.

The match marked Messi's return to Inter Miami's starting lineup after his recent international commitments with Argentina. He had made a substitute appearance in Miami's previous match against the Columbus Crew, where he played 37 minutes in a 2-2 draw but failed to score.

His return to full fitness is a major boost for Inter Miami as the club continues its pursuit of another Leagues Cup title. Messi famously inspired Miami to their first-ever trophy by leading them to the 2023 Leagues Cup championship shortly after joining the club.

Last season, Inter Miami reached the tournament final once again but suffered a 3-0 defeat to Seattle Sounders. That match ended in controversy following an on-field altercation involving Luis Suarez, who later received a six-match suspension in the competition.

Because of that suspension, Suarez was unavailable for Wednesday's fixture despite entering the tournament in excellent form. The experienced Uruguayan striker had scored seven goals in his previous four matches, making his absence a significant one for Miami.

Fortunately for Inter Miami, Messi ensured the team did not miss its star forward. With two goals, one assist and another match-winning display, the Argentine once again demonstrated his ability to influence games at the highest level.

The victory also extended Inter Miami's unbeaten streak to eight matches, strengthening the club's momentum as the Leagues Cup progresses. With Messi back among the goals and the squad performing confidently, Miami will be considered one of the favourites to challenge for the title once again.

New Delhi: India's upcoming two-Test series against Sri Lanka is shaping up to be much more than a routine overseas assignment. For years, tours to Sri Lanka were considered among India's most comfortable away series, with the visitors dominating both the conditions and the opposition. This time, however, the contest carries a different narrative. The focus has shifted from Sri Lanka's weaknesses to India's own vulnerability against quality spin bowling, making the series a significant test for captain Shubman Gill and head coach Gautam Gambhir.

When India last toured Sri Lanka in 2017, they completed a comprehensive 3-0 whitewash, winning all three Tests by massive margins. At the time, the gap between the two teams appeared wider than ever, with Sri Lanka struggling through a rebuilding phase following the retirement of several legendary players.

Nearly a decade later, the balance has changed considerably. While Sri Lanka have gradually rebuilt their strength at home, India's batting against spin has emerged as an area of growing concern. Recent performances suggest that what was once India's greatest strength has become one of its biggest challenges.

Sri Lanka's resurgence at home has been driven largely by left-arm spinner Prabath Jayasuriya, who has established himself as one of the most effective bowlers in familiar conditions. Rather than relying on mystery deliveries, Jayasuriya has consistently troubled batters through accuracy, patience and disciplined line and length. His impressive record of 41 wickets in 13 innings reflects his ability to exploit turning surfaces and build pressure over long spells.

India's recent struggles against spin have only increased expectations surrounding the upcoming series. The warning signs first became evident during the home Test series defeat against New Zealand in 2024, when left-arm spinner Ajaz Patel repeatedly exposed technical shortcomings in the Indian batting line-up. The following year, South African off-spinner Simon Harmer also enjoyed considerable success as India suffered another difficult home series.

These performances have raised questions about whether Indian batters have gradually lost the confidence and technical assurance that once made them among the world's finest players of spin. In previous generations, Indian batters were known for decisive footwork, soft hands and the ability to rotate strike with ease. Today, analysts believe hesitation has replaced certainty, with many batters appearing caught between attacking and defending.

Cricket experts attribute this shift to several factors. The growing influence of white-ball cricket has encouraged more aggressive batting techniques, while domestic pitches have evolved over time. Preparation has also increasingly focused on handling fast bowling in overseas conditions, sometimes at the cost of developing traditional skills against high-quality spin.

Against this backdrop, the Sri Lanka series assumes greater significance. Although officially an overseas tour, the conditions are expected to closely resemble those India have historically mastered. As a result, many observers believe the series will effectively serve as an assessment of whether India can still dominate spin-friendly conditions or whether their recent difficulties represent a deeper technical issue.

The series also marks another important chapter in Shubman Gill's tenure as India's Test captain. Having recently taken over leadership responsibilities, Gill is still shaping his identity as captain while guiding a team in transition. With several senior players no longer part of the squad, the responsibility of building a new core rests heavily on his shoulders.

For head coach Gautam Gambhir, the tour also carries added importance. India's recent Test performances have invited increased scrutiny, and the Sri Lanka series offers another opportunity for the team management to demonstrate progress. Strong performances against quality spin could ease concerns surrounding the batting unit, while another disappointing showing may intensify questions about India's long-term approach in red-ball cricket.

Sri Lanka, meanwhile, will enter the series with growing confidence. Success in home conditions over the past few years has strengthened belief within the squad, and recent examples of India's struggles against spin provide further encouragement. The hosts are expected to rely heavily on their spin attack and attempt to dictate matches from the opening sessions.

Despite being just a two-Test series, the contest could prove highly significant for both teams. For Sri Lanka, it represents an opportunity to confirm their growing competitiveness at home. For India, it is a chance to prove that their recent difficulties against spin are only temporary rather than a lasting weakness.

As the teams prepare for the series opener, the spotlight will remain firmly on India's batting. The performances over the next two Tests may not only determine the outcome of the series but also offer valuable insight into the future direction of India's Test side under its new leadership.

Saint Louis: Indian Grandmaster R. Praggnanandhaa added another major title to his growing list of achievements by winning the Saint Louis Rapid & Blitz 2026 championship in the United States. The 21-year-old produced a consistent performance throughout the tournament, carrying his advantage from the Rapid section into the Blitz rounds to emerge as the overall champion. Competing against some of the world's strongest chess players, Praggnanandhaa displayed remarkable composure and tactical precision to secure one of the biggest victories of his career on the Grand Chess Tour.

Praggnanandhaa laid the foundation for his title triumph during the Rapid portion of the event. After nine rounds, he accumulated 12 points out of a possible 18, finishing at the top of the standings. One of the highlights of his campaign was an impressive victory over Germany's Vincent Keymer, while he also earned an important draw against Dutch Grandmaster Anish Giri. Those results gave him a valuable cushion heading into the Blitz stage, where every point becomes crucial.

The Indian star maintained his momentum in the Blitz section, where fast-paced games demand exceptional concentration and quick decision-making. Despite facing strong challenges from leading Grandmasters, including Uzbekistan's Javokhir Sindarov, Praggnanandhaa continued to score consistently. He handled the pressure brilliantly in key encounters, protecting his overall lead and eventually finishing on top of the standings to lift the championship trophy.

The Saint Louis Rapid & Blitz is one of the marquee events on the Grand Chess Tour, attracting many of the world's highest-rated players each year. Winning the tournament is considered a significant achievement because of the quality of competition and the demanding format, which combines rapid and blitz chess over several days. Praggnanandhaa's triumph further strengthens his reputation as one of the brightest young talents in world chess.

Over the past few years, Praggnanandhaa has established himself as one of India's leading Grandmasters with a series of impressive performances on the international circuit. He has consistently challenged and defeated some of the biggest names in chess, earning recognition for his calm temperament, deep preparation, and ability to perform under pressure. His latest success in Saint Louis adds another prestigious title to his growing résumé and reinforces India's rising influence in global chess.

Chess experts believe Praggnanandhaa's greatest strength lies in his consistency across different formats. While many players excel in either classical or rapid chess, the Indian Grandmaster has repeatedly shown that he can adapt equally well to faster formats. His ability to remain composed in critical situations played a key role in securing the title against an elite field.

The victory also marks another milestone for Indian chess, which has witnessed remarkable growth in recent years. Following the legacy of former World Champion Viswanathan Anand, a new generation of Indian Grandmasters, led by Praggnanandhaa, has emerged as a major force on the international stage. His latest triumph is expected to boost his standing in the Grand Chess Tour rankings and provide further confidence ahead of upcoming elite tournaments.

Kingston: Pakistan's batting mainstay Babar Azam came agonisingly close to ending one of the longest and most talked-about droughts of his Test career, only to suffer a heartbreaking run-out on 88 against the West Indies. The dismissal not only ended a promising innings but also extended his wait for a Test century to more than 1,300 days, leaving the former Pakistan captain visibly devastated on the field.

The defining image of the day came moments after the dismissal. Babar remained on his knees near the crease even after television replays confirmed that he had failed to make his ground. His bat was stretched desperately towards the crease, but the stumps had already been broken. While West Indies players celebrated the breakthrough, Babar stayed motionless for several seconds, reflecting the disappointment of letting another opportunity slip away.

The right-handed batter looked in complete control throughout his innings. He scored 88 runs off 147 deliveries, striking 10 boundaries and one six. More importantly, he played a crucial role in rescuing Pakistan after the early loss of two wickets. Batting alongside Abdullah Shafique, Babar stitched together a 183-run partnership for the third wicket, putting Pakistan in a commanding position in reply to the West Indies' first-innings total.

Unlike many of his recent innings, Babar's knock was built on patience and composure rather than aggressive stroke play. He negotiated the new ball confidently, handled the spinners comfortably, and gradually settled into his rhythm. As the innings progressed, it appeared increasingly likely that he would finally register the Test century that had eluded him for years. However, a mix-up while attempting a quick single brought an abrupt end to the innings.

Television replays showed Babar diving desperately to make his ground after turning back midway through the run. Despite extending his bat as far as possible, he fell just short of the crease. The dismissal proved especially painful because he had already done the hard work required to build a substantial innings and was only 12 runs away from reaching three figures.

Babar's last Test century came on December 26, 2022, against New Zealand in Karachi, where he scored a magnificent 161. Since then, he has crossed the fifty-run mark on several occasions but has repeatedly failed to convert promising starts into hundreds. By the time he was dismissed for 88 against the West Indies, his wait for another Test century had stretched to 1,317 days, leaving his tally of Test hundreds stuck at nine.

For a batter once regarded among the finest across all formats, the prolonged absence of a Test hundred has become an unusual statistic. During the peak of his career, Babar built his reputation on converting starts into match-defining centuries. His ability to bat for long periods and dominate bowling attacks consistently placed him among the world's elite batters. However, that conversion rate has noticeably declined in the longest format over the past few years.

Although Babar ended his overall international century drought by scoring an unbeaten ODI hundred against Sri Lanka in November 2025, success in Test cricket has continued to evade him. Every innings since then has carried additional scrutiny, with fans and experts waiting for the former captain to rediscover the consistency that once defined his red-ball career.

Despite missing out on the landmark, Babar's innings played a significant role in strengthening Pakistan's position in the match. His partnership with Abdullah Shafique helped the visitors recover from early setbacks and put them in control against the West Indies bowling attack. The innings also showed encouraging signs of rhythm and confidence, even though it ultimately ended in disappointment.

The dismissal has once again sparked discussions among former cricketers and analysts about Babar's inability to convert solid starts into centuries in Test cricket. While many believe his fluent 88 indicates that another hundred may not be far away, others point out that finishing innings has become the biggest challenge in his recent red-ball career. With Pakistan scheduled to play more Test cricket later this year, all eyes will remain on whether one of the modern game's finest batters can finally bring an end to his lengthy wait for a Test hundred.