Despite their consistently strong performances, Royal Challengers Bangalore have yet to secure a win in the Indian Premier League after making it to the playoffs a record nine times. In their 2024 season, they started off with a dismal performance, only winning one out of their first eight matches. However, they made a remarkable comeback and even managed to qualify for the playoffs. Their journey came to an end in a heartbreaking loss in the final league match against Chennai Super Kings.
Lionel Messi gave an emotional goodbye and scored two goals in the Argentina vs Venezuela match, which may have been his last at home. He mentioned that he is motivated to stay for the 2026 World Cup, but also stated that his participation remains undecided. At 38, Messi continues to defy age and expectations as he adds more goals and records to his name.
Spain, the reigning UEFA European Championship winners, will face Bulgaria in their first World Cup Qualifying match for the 2026 tournament. With a record of 4-1-0 against Bulgaria, Spain is favored to start their journey towards World Cup glory on a high note. However, Bulgaria will be looking to pull off an upset and secure their first World Cup appearance since 1998. The stakes are higher than ever with the 2026 World Cup featuring 16 eligible teams from the UEFA region, making the qualifying stage more competitive.
In a thrilling second One Day International between England and South Africa, Matthew Breetzke's impressive performance of scoring his fifth consecutive half century led his team to a five-run victory and an unassailable 2-0 series lead. Despite England's attempt to pull off an improbable victory, Breetzke's 85 runs and partnership with Tristan Stubbs helped South Africa post a formidable 330-8. England's Jos Buttler and Jofra Archer gave a valiant effort, but ultimately it was Breetzke's record-setting performance that secured the win for South Africa.
In the second ODI between South Africa and England at Lord's, the visitors put up a commendable batting performance after being put into bat, led by half-centuries from Matthew Breetzke and Tristan Stubbs. Their total of 330/8 is the highest by a visiting team batting first at the venue since ODIs started being played for 50 overs. England now face a mammoth chase in order to keep the series alive.
After almost 25 years at the helm of Tottenham Hotspur, Daniel Levy has announced his departure as chairman. His tenure has been marked by both success and controversy, as the club has struggled to establish itself as a permanent Premier League challenger. Spurs have outlined a new era of leadership, with Vinai Venkatesham as CEO, Thomas Frank as men's head coach, and Martin Ho as women's head coach. In his departure statement, Levy expressed pride in the progress made by the club and thanked the fans for their support. He passes the reins over to Non-Executive Chairman Peter Charrington, who says the club is now focused on stability and empowering its talented employees. Overall, Levy's final summer saw the club make several notable signings, but was also marred by the last-second loss of a key target to rival Arsenal.
South Africa's Tristan Stubbs had a close call when his bat flew over his shoulder and landed in front of the stumps during the second ODI against England. The Proteas were 240/4 after 40 overs, with Stubbs on 55 and Dewald Brevis yet to score. A win for South Africa would seal the series, after their victory in the first ODI at Leeds.
Chennai Super Kings' newest addition, Dewald Brevis, has expressed his gratitude towards captain MS Dhoni for his mentorship during his first season with the franchise. The 22-year-old South African player shared how he learned from Dhoni's experience and also admired his down-to-earth nature. Brevis also discussed his favorite city and experience playing with other teams in the IPL.
Rising star Ruturaj Gaikwad's promising 2025 IPL season was cut tragically short due to an elbow injury, forcing him out of the tournament after just five matches. His absence dealt a blow to defending champions Chennai Super Kings, who subsequently saw a dip in performance and were eliminated from the league. The team's captaincy duties were handed back to experienced player MS Dhoni, as fans eagerly await Gaikwad's return in upcoming seasons.
South African cricket player Matthew Breetzke has become the first in ODI history to score five consecutive half-centuries in his first five innings. This feat was achieved during the second ODI against England at Lord's, where Breetzke added yet another 50+ score to his impressive run. He surpassed the long-standing record held by India's Navjot Singh Sidhu and now also holds the title for most runs after five ODI matches. Despite a fine knock of 85, Breetzke was eventually dismissed, but his partnership with Tristan Stubbs helped South Africa reach a promising position in the game.