Zheng Qinwen, the Paris Olympics champion, highlighted her mental strength with a comeback victory over Amanda Anisimova in the US Open first round. Zheng, overcoming an early setback, triumphed 4-6, 6-4, 6-2. She expressed satisfaction in leveraging her Olympic momentum and maintaining focus to avoid post-success complacency, viewing the tough match as mental progress.
Former Indian cricketer Sunil Gavaskar endorsed Jay Shah for the next ICC president, citing his impact on Indian cricket. Gavaskar highlighted Shah's potential to benefit global cricket, addressing critics of current chairman Greg Barclay's decision not to seek another term. Gavaskar praised the strong collaboration within BCCI for Indian cricket's success.
PCB chairman Mohsin Naqvi expressed frustration over the lack of quality backup players after Pakistan's 10-wicket loss to Bangladesh in the first Test. This defeat, Pakistan's first in 14 Tests against Bangladesh, highlights ongoing struggles. Naqvi identified systemic issues in player development and selection, emphasizing the need for structural changes within Pakistan cricket.
Pakistan's road to the World Test Championship final became nearly impossible following their defeat to Bangladesh in Rawalpindi. Currently eighth on the points table with just two wins in six matches, Pakistan now need to win all their remaining eight Tests to advance. India and Australia remain the top contenders for the final.
South Africa collapsed from a seemingly winning position to lose to West Indies by 30 runs, allowing the Caribbean side to secure a 2-0 series lead. Chasing 180, South Africa were at 129 for 3 but lost their last seven wickets for just 20 runs. Romario Shepherd and Shamar Joseph's stellar bowling ensured West Indies' victory.
Cricketer Ahmed Shehzad criticized the Pakistan Cricket Board's strategy and selection policies following Pakistan's historic 10-wicket loss to Bangladesh in the Rawalpindi Test. Shehzad blamed the PCB for making short-term decisions that led to the decline of Pakistan cricket, equating the situation to the downfall of Pakistani hockey. He called for introspection and changes within the PCB.
Second-half goals by Leandro Trossard and Thomas Partey earned Arsenal earn a hard-fought 2-0 win at Aston Villa on Saturday as Mikel Arteta's side continued their perfect start to the Premier League season. Villa did the double over Arsenal last season, defeats that ultimately cost the Gunners the title, and had plenty of chances to make it three successive wins at Villa Park, striker Ollie Watkins missing two gilt-edged openings.
A controlled 64-run partnership between Joe Root and Jamie Smith guided England to a five-wicket win over Sri Lanka on the fourth day of the first Test at Old Trafford on Saturday. Root dug in after England had made a shaky start to chasing a modest victory target of 205, reaching his half-century off 108 balls. The second Test starts at Lord's on Thursday.
Shaheen Shah Afridi got engaged to Ansha, the second-eldest daughter of former Pakistan captain Shahid Afridi, in 2021. Their nikah took place in a private ceremony in February last year, followed by a week of wedding celebrations and Ansha's rukhsati in September 2023. Afridi is expected to rejoin his team ahead of the second Test, scheduled to begin in Rawalpindi on August 30.
Former Indian hockey goalkeeper P R Sreejesh, now the junior Indian team's coach, emphasized the importance of challenging players rather than pampering them. Reflecting on India's recent performance, Sreejesh expressed disappointment over not securing gold in Paris despite the team's calibre. He remained firm on his retirement decision, citing a fulfilling career with significant achievements, including two Olympic bronze medals.
Mahendra Singh Dhoni, celebrated for his unflappable composure during cricket matches, harbors an intense affection for motorcycles that rivals his dedication to the sport. His enthusiasm for two-wheeled machines is common knowledge among his supporters and cricketing peers. Dhoni's impressive motorcycle collection spans from vintage classics to cutting-edge superbikes, reflecting his diverse tastes.