New Delhi, July 18 (IANS) With India set to stage the BWF World Championships for the first time in 17 years, former All England winner Pullela Gopichand described the event as a landmark moment for both badminton and Indian sport, expressing confidence that home conditions could provide a significant boost to the country’s medal hopefuls.”I think it’s really wonderful to see the country host the world championship again. It’s a great moment not only for badminton but for Indian sport. In genera…

New York, July 18 (IANS) Spain defender Marc Cucurella has revealed he could bring the curtain down on his international career if La Roja defeat defending champions Argentina in Sunday’s FIFA World Cup final, saying there would be little left for him to achieve after winning both the UEFA European Championship and the World Cup.The 27-year-old has been one of Spain’s most consistent performers during their impressive run to the final, playing every minute as Luis de la Fuente’s side reached the…

Antwerp, July 18 (IANS) The Indian junior (U21) men’s hockey team concluded its highly competitive exposure tour of Belgium on Friday after a series of rigorous encounters against Europe’s top hockey nations, and the team’s new coach, Frederic Soyez, is happy with the progress made during the tour.Over the six-match tour, which spanned from July 5 to 18, 2026, the young Indian side showcased tactical depth and character, finishing the campaign on a high with a thrilling victory over the Neth…

New Delhi, July 18 (IANS) Olympic legends Mirabai Chanu and Lovlina Borgohain will be the flag and baton bearers when the Indian contingent steps out, dressed nattily, for the opening ceremony of the 2026 Commonwealth Games in Glasgow on July 23.Announcing the names on Saturday, Indian Olympic Association President PT Usha said, “It is a matter of pride: Mirabai and Lovlina will be doing the honours at the OVO Hydro. I wish both the girls and the entire contingent good luck.”Indeed, for Mira…

New York, July 18 (IANS) European champions Spain have combined attacking quality with one of the strongest defensive displays in FIFA World Cup history to reach their first final since lifting the trophy in South Africa in 2010.Luis de la Fuente’s side will now face defending champions Argentina at MetLife Stadium on Monday , looking to add a second World Cup crown to their golden-era achievements.Spain’s journey has been built on balance. While Mikel Oyarzabal has emerged as the team’s leading…

Greater Noida, July 18 (IANS) Former India captain Kapil Dev paid glowing tribute to Rohit Sharma amid growing speculation over the opener’s ODI future, saying the veteran batter has given Indian cricket unforgettable memories while wishing him well if he decides to retire.When asked whether Sunday’s third ODI against England at Lord’s could be Rohit’s final appearance in the format, Kapil said, “He has entertained the nation immensely, something very few players have achieved. He is one of thos…

Greater Noida, July 18 (IANS) Former India captain Kapil Dev believes England hold a slight edge over India heading into the series-deciding third ODI at Lord’s on Sunday, saying the hosts enjoy the advantage of familiar conditions while India’s biggest challenge has been finding the right team rhythmWith the three-match series level at 1-1, the iconic Lord’s will host a winner-takes-all contest after India claimed the opening ODI at Edgbaston before England bounced back with a four-wicket victo…

New Delhi, July 18 (IANS) India wicketkeeper-batter Yastika Bhatia says she never allowed the prospect of a maiden Test century to alter the way she batted during her historic innings at Lord’s, insisting that sticking to India’s aggressive brand of cricket mattered more than personal milestones.Speaking at a press conference facilitated by the Baroda Cricket Association (BCA) on Saturday, days after becoming the first woman to score a Test hundred at the iconic venue, Yastika said her only obje…

New York, July 18 (IANS) Defending champions Argentina are just one win away from making history. A victory over European champions Spain in Monday’s FIFA World Cup final at the MetLife Stadium would make Lionel Scaloni’s side the first team since Brazil in 1962 to successfully defend the World Cup crown. Argentina’s journey to the final has been anything but straightforward. It has featured dominant wins, dramatic comebacks, extra-time battles and, above all, another remarkable tournament from …

New Delhi, July 18 (IANS) India wicketkeeper-batter Yastika Bhatia said that the months she spent away from cricket with a serious knee injury reshaped her mindset, teaching her patience, resilience and an unwavering belief in the process.Speaking at a press conference facilitated by the Baroda Cricket Association (BCA) on Saturday, days after scripting history with a maiden Test century at Lord’s following her return from an ACL injury, the left-hander reflected on the emotional lows of missing…