Sports

Root reached the milestone in 181 balls, batting through a phase when England needed stability and control, and in the process, checked off one of the few achievements missing from his record.

Mitchell Starc has become the most successful left-arm fast bowler in Test cricket, surpassing Wasim Akram’s record of 414 wickets. The Australian achieved this milestone at the Gabba, his debut venue, in his 102nd Test. Starc’s early wickets provided Australia with a strong start in the Ashes Test, despite England’s recovery.

Former India opener Aakash Chopra has expressed bewilderment over Mohammed Siraj’s exclusion from the ODI setup. He questioned the decision, highlighting Siraj’s strong ODI record and contrasting it with the struggles of other young pacers who were preferred. Chopra finds it inexplicable that Siraj has seemingly become a red-ball specialist.

A rare defeat for India saw Virat Kohli’s brilliant century go in vain as South Africa chased down 358 to level the ODI series. This marked the first loss in nearly seven years despite a Kohli ton, highlighting an unusual outcome. Aiden Markram’s century also played a crucial role in the visitors’ successful chase.

Former spinner Harbhajan Singh passionately defended Virat Kohli and Rohit Sharma, questioning the authority of less accomplished individuals to dictate their future. He highlighted their current strong performances, emphasising they are setting benchmarks for younger players and deserve to be considered for the 2027 ODI World Cup. Harbhajan also advocated for better Test pitches in…

Run-machine Virat Kohli’s brilliant 102 wasn’t enough as South Africa chased down 359 in Raipur, levelling the three-match series 1-1. Kohli’s century, his 53rd ODI ton, saw him equal Sachin Tendulkar’s record for hundreds at 34 venues. Ruturaj Gaikwad also scored a century in their record partnership against the Proteas.