Australian cricket legend Glenn McGrath has refuted allegations that India had an unfair advantage in the 2025 ICC Champions Trophy by playing all their matches in Dubai. McGrath emphasized that India's success stemmed from their adeptness on spin-friendly tracks and their comprehensive understanding of the ODI format. He stated, "You have to give credit to India; they played to the conditions. They know how to play on spinning tracks." McGrath also highlighted the positive impact of the IPL and T20 cricket on India's one-day game, noting their confidence and mastery in the format. He dismissed claims of an unfair advantage, comparing it to teams playing all matches in their home countries. 

Sachin Tendulkar led Holi 2025 celebrations at the India Masters team hotel in Raipur, playing a prank on Yuvraj Singh with a water gun. Yuvraj, who had slept in after his match-winning knock in the International Masters League (IML) semi-final against Australia, was caught off guard. Tendulkar, joined by Yusuf Pathan and Rahul Sharma, ambushed Yuvraj at his hotel room door before drenching him in colors. The celebrations continued in the hotel lawn, where Tendulkar himself was soaked. India Masters will face the winner of West Indies vs. Sri Lanka in the IML final on Sunday.

Delhi Capitals have appointed all-rounder Axar Patel as their captain for the IPL 2025 season, replacing Rishabh Pant, who has moved to Lucknow Super Giants. Patel, a key player for DC since 2019, was retained for ₹16.5 crore ahead of the mega auction. The 31-year-old has prior leadership experience, having captained Gujarat in domestic cricket and served as India's T20I vice-captain. With a revamped coaching staff, Patel aims to lead Delhi Capitals to their maiden IPL title. His appointment marks a new era for the franchise as they strategize for the upcoming season.  

Indian shuttler Lakshya Sen shocked defending champion Jonathan Christie to reach the quarterfinals of the All England Open 2025. In a stunning display, the unseeded Sen defeated the third-seeded Indonesian in straight games, 21-13, 21-10. The match lasted just 36 minutes. Sen, a former finalist, controlled the game from the start and dominated his opponent. This is his second straight year in the quarterfinals. The victory boosts his chances of winning his first All England title. Fans are excited to see if he can continue his strong form in the next round.

Former Pakistan cricketer Danish Kaneria has accused ex-captain Shahid Afridi of pressuring him to convert to Islam, leading to discrimination that hindered his career. Kaneria, Pakistan's highest wicket-taking spinner, revealed that while Inzamam-ul-Haq and Shoaib Akhtar supported him, Afridi and others isolated him, refusing to eat with him and frequently discussing religious conversion. Kaneria emphasized his unwavering commitment to Hinduism, stating, "My religion is everything to me." He also claimed that the Pakistan Cricket Board (PCB) didn't support him due to his faith, fearing he might break records. Kaneria praised India for providing equal opportunities to all cricketers, contrasting it with his experiences in Pakistan.

Arsenal legend Thierry Henry believes the Gunners can overcome Real Madrid in the upcoming UEFA Champions League quarterfinals, provided they exhibit unwavering self-belief and deliver a flawless performance. Reflecting on past encounters, Henry emphasized that even teams playing exceptionally well have struggled against Los Blancos, underscoring the need for Arsenal to be impeccable from the first whistle. He stated, "To beat Real Madrid, you need the perfect game from minute one... Even if you are perfect, it might not be enough." Henry's remarks come as Arsenal prepare to face the reigning champions, aiming to replicate their historic 2006 victory when Henry's goal secured a win at Santiago Bernabéu.

Indian athletes have delivered an outstanding performance at the Special Olympics World Winter Games Turin 2025, securing a total of nine medals over the first two days. On the second day, India added two gold, two silver, and one bronze to their tally. In Snowboarding, Bharti clinched her second gold in the Novice Slalom Final (division F25), while Harshita Thakur earned a bronze in division F26. In Alpine Skiing, Nirmala Devi won gold in the Intermediate Giant Slalom Final (division F06), with Radha Devi (division F01) and Abhishek Kumar (division M02) securing silver medals. The Indian contingent, comprising 30 athletes and 19 support staff, is competing in six events: Snowboarding, Snowshoeing, Alpine Skiing, Speed Skating, Floorball, and Cross Country Skiing.

Pakistan Cricket Board (PCB) protested the absence of its representative during the Champions Trophy 2025 prize ceremony after India's victory over New Zealand. PCB Chief Executive Sumair Ahmad Syed was present in Dubai but was not included in the presentation. Former cricketer Kamran Akmal criticized Pakistan’s cricket, saying, "We don’t deserve to be there." PCB has sought an explanation from the International Cricket Council (ICC), arguing the governing body should have inquired about a replacement for its chairman, Mohsin Naqvi. Reports suggest PCB failed to formally notify ICC about Naqvi’s absence.

Former India all-rounder Syed Abid Ali passed away at 83. He played 29 Tests and 5 ODIs, debuting in 1967. A brilliant fielder, he took 47 Test wickets and scored 1,018 runs. Notably, he opened both batting and bowling in 7 Tests. Sunil Gavaskar called him a "lion-hearted cricketer" who played selflessly. Abid also featured in the inaugural ODI World Cup, scoring 70 in his last game. He took 397 first-class wickets and amassed 8,732 runs. Known for his impeccable manners and sharp cricketing mind, he leaves behind a lasting legacy in Indian cricket.

Two young Indians have been selected as finalists for the prestigious 2025 Commonwealth Youth Awards, which recognize outstanding contributions by young leaders across the 56 Commonwealth nations. These awards celebrate individuals aged 15-29 who drive positive change in areas like climate action, education, and social development. The finalists were chosen for their impactful initiatives addressing critical global challenges. The winners will be announced later in 2025, with cash prizes and grants awarded to support their projects. This recognition highlights India’s growing influence in youth-led innovation and social transformation on a global platform.