aikidogs.com – Local Reports & Special Coverage

IND vs PAK | 'Is the BCCI above national interest?': Letter to sports minister Mansukh Mandaviya reignites debate

Aaditya Thackeray has penned a letter to the union sports minister, questioning BCCI's decision to play against Pakistan in the Asia Cup, citing national interest concerns. He highlighted past Pakistan-based terrorist attacks in India and questioned if BCCI prioritises financial gains over the sacrifices of soldiers and victims. The Asia Cup, featuring India-Pakistan matches, is scheduled in Dubai.

India's captaincy debate | After Rohit Sharma, Shreyas Iyer tipped as ODI skipper over Shubman Gill — 'He has ...'

While Shubman Gill is being groomed as a future leader, Ambati Rayudu believes Shreyas Iyer should be India's next ODI captain. Rayudu cites Iyer's calmness and success leading KKR to an IPL title, along with his ability to guide underdog teams. Iyer's consistent ODI performance, including a strong Champions Trophy and World Cup, further strengthens Rayudu's argument.

Asia Cup squad: 'His case needs to be discussed' - Ex-India cricketer slams Harshit Rana's selection

The selection of India's Asia Cup squad has sparked controversy, particularly regarding Harshit Rana's inclusion. Aakash Chopra questions Rana's place, citing his underwhelming IPL 2025 performance and suggesting that Prasidh Krishna, the IPL 2025 Purple Cap winner, and Mohammed Siraj, with his recent form in England, were more deserving choices.

Asia Cup 2025 | 'Open your mouth carefully': Jasprit Bumrah's critics lambasted

Mohammed Kaif has strongly supported Jasprit Bumrah's T20I return, dismissing fitness concerns raised during the England Test series. Kaif highlighted Bumrah's match-winning ability across formats and suggested white-ball cricket suits him better due to a manageable workload. He also expressed disappointment over Mohammed Siraj's Asia Cup exclusion, praising his form and wicket-taking ability.

Big setback for South Africa! Bowler reported for suspect action on ODI debut vs Australia; untimely disruption for Proteas

South Africa's ODI series against Australia began with a victory overshadowed by concerns regarding Prenelan Subrayen's bowling action. The off-spinner, making his debut, was reported for a suspect action and will undergo assessment. This setback impacted South Africa's team balance, especially with Kagiso Rabada's injury.

Online Gaming Bill 2025 passed in Lok Sabha: Ban on real money gaming; boost for esports

Lok Sabha passed the Promotion and Regulation of Online Gaming Bill, 2025, amidst opposition protests. The bill aims to regulate online gaming, delighting esports but alarming real money gaming platforms. It proposes a central regulatory body, potentially impacting cricket sponsorships and endorsements. Esports anticipates a boost, gaining legitimacy as it prepares for its Olympic debut in 2027.

Indian cricket | 'When he steps away ...': Ex-India batter predicts Rohit Sharma's ODI retirement and successor

Mohammad Kaif has endorsed Shubman Gill as Rohit Sharma's successor in ODIs, anticipating Rohit's retirement after the 2027 World Cup. Kaif highlighted Gill's impressive run-scoring record and leadership qualities, noting his Test captaincy and T20I vice-captaincy. Gill's maturity and form, particularly during the England series, have solidified his position as a future leader, according to chief selector Ajit Agarkar.

IND vs PAK | When Pakistan pulled out: Asia Cup's turbulent past back in spotlight before UAE 2025

The 2025 Asia Cup, amidst geopolitical tensions, will be held in the UAE from September 9-28. India and Pakistan have announced their squads, but past withdrawals due to political strife cast a shadow. Pakistan pulled out in 1990-91, and India in 1986. This year, India is in Group A with Pakistan, UAE, and Oman.

William Saliba demands Arsenal improve in bid for overdue title

William Saliba has vowed to give everything to ensure fourth time's a charm as Arsenal attempt to finally get their hands on the Premier League trophy.

Tottenham confident of landing Palace's Eberechi Eze - sources

Tottenham are increasingly confident of completing a deal worth at least £60 million ($81m) for Crystal Palace's Eberechi Eze, sources have told ESPN.

Arsenal's Kai Havertz set for spell out with knee injury - sources

Arsenal forward Kai Havertz is set for a spell on the sidelines after suffering a knee injury, sources have told ESPN.

Which early issues need solving for some top Premier League clubs?

The first matchday of the Premier League is over, so what did some of the top clubs learn from it? Arsenal need to fix their press, while Chelsea could play Cole Palmer out wide.

Dowman, Ngumoha, Hato lead U21 Premier League breakout stars

With a host of young players impressing in preseason, we look at the next breakout stars under the age of 21 from all 20 Premier League teams.

Nonsense: Kris Srikkanth blasts Ajit Agarkar over Iyer's Asia Cup snub reasoning

Former India captain Kris Srikkanth has criticised selection committee chief Ajit Agarkar over Shreyas Iyer's omission from the Asia Cup squad. Iyer was among the notable omissions in the 15-man squad, led by Suryakumar Yadav. 

Australia ready to offer expertise as India aims to host Olympics in 2036

Australia has offered support to India's pursuit of hosting the 2036 Olympics, with High Commissioner Philip Green highlighting the potential for a strong partnership as both nations aim to strengthen their role in global sports.

Durand Cup: Diamond Harbour stun East Bengal, end dream run in semi-final

East Bengal's fairy-tale Durand Cup campaign ended in heartbreak as debutants Diamond Harbour FC scripted a stunning 2-1 semi-final upset, with former East Bengal men Mirshad Michu and Joby Justin playing pivotal roles in the shocker.

Parliamentary panel calls SAI critically under-funded, slams India's poor Olympic show

A parliamentary panel has slammed low funding and staff shortages at SAI while raising red flags over underutilisation and diversion of funds in the Khelo India scheme, calling India's international sporting performance "far from satisfactory."

Jack Della Maddalena vs Islam Makhachev: The clash that has UFC fans and fighters talking

Islam Makhachev is moving up to welterweight to challenge Jack Della Maddalena in a high-stakes UFC superfight. Will Makhachev's elite grappling overcome Della Maddalena's knockout power, or will the Aussie striker stop the lightweight king's quest for double-champ glory?

Following India's five-wicket loss to England in the first Test, former Australian player Brad Haddin urges captain Shubman Gill to improve the team's fielding attitude. Haddin links poor catching to the IPL and emphasizes that fielding excellence requires commitment. India dropped eight catches, costing them dearly, especially with Ben Duckett's match-winning performance.

Shimron Hetmyer's Last-Ball Heroics Power Seattle Orcas to Record MLC Chase Over MI New York

Shimron Hetmyer's explosive unbeaten 97 propelled the Seattle Orcas to a thrilling three-wicket victory over MI New York in a high-scoring affair. Chasing a daunting 238, Hetmyer's last-ball six sealed the highest successful run chase in MLC history. Nicholas Pooran's earlier unbeaten century for MI New York went in vain as Seattle snatched victory from the jaws of defeat.