Skipper Smith seeks adaptability as Australia prepare for spin trial in Sri Lanka

IANS | January 28, 2025 6:22 PM

Galle, Jan 28 (IANS) Australia’s stand-in captain Steven Smith has issued a clear message to his teammates as they gear up for a challenging two-Test series in Galle against Sri Lanka: be ready for spin and surprises. With his vast experience on the subcontinent, Smith knows all too well the challenges the surfaces in Sri Lanka pose, particularly in Galle, a venue infamous for its spin-friendly conditions.

India U20 women to play three friendlies in Turkiye in February

IANS | January 28, 2025 5:56 PM

New Delhi, Jan 28 (IANS) The India U20 women's team will play three friendly matches during the FIFA international match window in February in Antalya, Turkiye. Led by head coach Joakim Alexandersson, the Young Tigresses, who are currently camping in Bengaluru, will face Jordan (February 19), Hong Kong (Feb 22) and Russia (Feb 25) in Antalya.

Alyssa Healy leads Australia to third consecutive ICC Women's Championship title

IANS | January 28, 2025 4:55 PM

Dubai, Jan 28 (IANS) Australia’s dominance in women’s cricket has continued under the inspiring leadership of Alyssa Healy, as the team secured their third consecutive ICC Women’s Championship title. A series of consistent performances, including recent victories over India and New Zealand, has set the tone for their preparations ahead of the ICC Women’s Cricket World Cup in India later this year.

Barca defender Andreas Christensen out for three weeks with injured calf

IANS | January 28, 2025 4:44 PM

Barcelona, Jan 28 (ANS) Barcelona FC defender Andreas Christensen will be out of action for around three weeks after suffering an injury to his right calf during Monday's training session, the La Liga club announced on Tuesday. Last week, Christensen was medically cleared to return after missing over five months with persistent Achilles issues that have plagued him for the better part of two years.

Australia delay selection call to check Healy's fitness for Ashes Test

IANS | January 28, 2025 4:33 PM

Melbourne, Jan 28 (IANS) Australia are sweating on captain Alyssa Healy's availability for the historic day-night Women's Ashes Test against England starting at the Melbourne Cricket Ground here on Thursday. Healy completed a full training session two days out despite battling a stress injury in her foot that saw her miss the entire T20I series while wearing a moon boot.

ILT20 2024-25: Tom Alsop eyes playoff spot for Gulf Giants after match-winning knock

IANS | January 27, 2025 11:57 PM

Sharjah, Jan 27 (IANS) Gulf Giants secured their third win of the ILT20 2024-25 campaign after clinching a thrilling six-wicket win against the Sharjah Warriorz courtesy of a match-winning knock from Tom Alsop. This is the second consecutive win this season for the Adani Sportsline-owned franchise and gives the team a significant boost toward their quest for the playoffs.

Champions League: Interim coach Tullberg creates siege mentality amid Dortmund's struggles

IANS | January 27, 2025 11:46 PM

Berlin (Germany), Jan 27 (IANS) With one notable exception, things seem to be business as usual for Mike Tullberg. While the 39-year-old Dane used to typically prepare Borussia Dortmund's under-19 side for the Youth League, he now finds himself coaching the senior team in its upcoming clash against Shakhtar - an interim solution after Nuri Sahin's dismissal.