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  • Super Cup 2025 Final Preview: Unbeaten East Bengal FC Eye Return to Glory Against Defending Champions FC Goa

    Super Cup 2025 Final Preview: Unbeaten East Bengal FC Eye Return to Glory Against Defending Champions FC Goa

    The stage is set for a thrilling finale to the AIFF Super Cup 2025, as East Bengal FC prepare to face defending champions FC Goa in the title clash at the PJN Stadium in Fatorda (Kickoff: 7:30 PM).

    With a coveted spot in the 2026–27 AFC competitions on the line, the winners of the last two editions—East Bengal FC in 2024 and FC Goa in 2025—are determined to reclaim the Super Cup crown and become the first Indian club this season to secure continental qualification.

    Under Spanish head coach Óscar Bruzón, East Bengal have shown steady improvement as the tournament progressed. After a nervy 2–2 opening draw against Dempo SC, they bounced back emphatically with a commanding 4–0 victory over Chennaiyin FC. A composed 0–0 draw against arch-rivals Mohun Bagan SG, in a match they largely controlled, ensured the Red & Golds topped Group A and advanced to the semifinals.

    In the first semifinal, East Bengal defeated Punjab FC 3–1 with goals from Mohammed Rashid, Kevin Sibille, and captain Saul Crespo, securing their place in the Super Cup final for the third time after appearances in 2018 and 2024.

    Unbeaten so far, the Kolkata giants have scored nine goals—more than any other team in the competition. However, they will be without head coach Bruzón on the touchline for the final after he received two yellow cards and was sent off just before halftime in the semifinal.

    Manolo Márquez’s FC Goa, meanwhile, are striving to become the first club to successfully defend the Super Cup and clinch their third title, having previously won in 2019 and 2025.

    The Gaurs progressed from Group B with wins over Jamshedpur FC (2–0) and Inter Kashi (3–0), despite a setback against NorthEast United FC (1–2). They then edged Mumbai City FC 2–1 in the second semifinal, courtesy of quickfire first-half goals from Brison Fernandes and David Timor.

    At the pre-match press conference, East Bengal assistant coach Bino George stated:
    “East Bengal never enter a tournament just to participate. We always compete to win. FC Goa are the defending champions and we respect them, but we have prepared rigorously for this day and will give everything to bring the trophy back to Kolkata.”

    Captain Saul Crespo added:
    “Our preparations have been excellent and the team bonding is visible to everyone. We have one last hurdle ahead of us, and we will give our all to execute our game plan to perfection.”

    The match will be streamed live on JioHotstar and broadcast on Star Sports Khel.

  • Rohit Sharma emulates Virat Kohli, becomes 4th Indian batter to reach 20,000 international runs

    Rohit Sharma emulates Virat Kohli, becomes 4th Indian batter to reach 20,000 international runs

    Rohit Sharma has achieved a monumental milestone by crossing 20,000 runs in international cricket, becoming only the fourth Indian batter in history to do so. The achievement, recorded in Visakhapatnam during India’s chase of 271 against South Africa in the final ODI of the three-match series, reinforces his status as one of India’s greatest ever white-ball players.

    বিশাখাপত্তনমে চতুর্থ ভারতীয় ব্যাটার হিসাবে ইতিহাসে লিখলেন ‘হিটম্যান’

    Joining India’s Most Elite Batting Club

    With this milestone, Rohit now stands alongside:

    Sachin Tendulkar

    Virat Kohli

    Rahul Dravid

    Rohit reached the landmark in just 538 innings, showcasing a remarkable combination of consistency, an average above 42, and a superb strike rate—numbers that surpass many other members of the 20,000-run club.

    India’s Top Run-Scorers in International Cricket

    Sachin Tendulkar – 34,357 runs (664 matches)

    Virat Kohli – 27,910 runs (556 matches)

    Rahul Dravid – 24,064 runs (504 matches)

    Rohit Sharma – 20,580 runs (505 matches)

    Sourav Ganguly – 18,433 runs

    MS Dhoni – 17,092 runs

    Rohit also has 50 international hundreds, the third most by an Indian.

    A White-Ball Giant

    A dominant force in limited-overs cricket, Rohit has amassed:

    11,000+ ODI runs

    4,300+ Test runs

    4,231 T20I runs (India’s highest in the format)

    Since making his ODI debut in 2007, Rohit’s journey has been defined by transformation. Initially inconsistent and often under pressure to retain his spot, he blossomed after moving to the top of the order in 2013.

    Record-Breaker and Modern-Day Great

    Rohit has rewritten the record books:

    The only player with three ODI double centuries

    Holder of the highest individual ODI score — 264 vs Sri Lanka (2014)

    Five centuries in the 2019 Cricket World Cup, the most in a single edition

    His aggressive style revolutionized India’s white-ball batting. He led India to the 2023 ODI World Cup final, and although the title slipped away, he redeemed himself by guiding India to victory in the 2024 T20 World Cup and the 2025 Champions Trophy.

    Test Renaissance

    Rohit’s Test career witnessed a dramatic resurgence after he began opening in 2019. He flourished across two World Test Championship cycles, becoming one of the most reliable Test openers in world cricket before retiring from the format in 2025 after a dip in form.

    A Legend in the Final Phase of His Career

    Now past 35 but still performing at the highest level, Rohit continues to thrive under pressure. His career is a testament to perseverance: extraordinary talent backed by maturity, adaptability, and the ability to deliver when it matters most.

    There remains one unfulfilled dream — the ODI World Cup title, which he may get another shot at in 2027. Given his current form, dropping him seems almost unimaginable.

    With 20,000 international runs, Rohit Sharma is not just a prolific run-scorer—he is a transformative figure in Indian cricket. His dominance in white-ball formats, his record-shattering innings, and his leadership have secured his place among India’s all-time greats. His journey reminds us that while many have talent, only true legends rise above pressure to define an era.

  • India vs South Africa 2025: Kuldeep Yadav & Prasidh Krishna’s Bowling Performance

    India vs South Africa 2025: Kuldeep Yadav & Prasidh Krishna’s Bowling Performance

    In the India vs South Africa match, Indian bowlers stopped the Proteas’ dominant innings. South African batsmen struggled in the spinning trap set by Chinaman spinner Kuldeep Yadav. With Kuldeep’s skillful bowling combined with Prasidh Krishna’s pace attack, South Africa was bowled out for 270 in 47.5 overs. As a result, India faces a target of 271 runs to win the match.

    সিরিজ বাঁচানোর লড়াইয়ে আক্রমণাত্মক ভারত পেল সহজ টার্গেট

     

    India’s bowling attack was effective from the start. The decision of captain KL Rahul, who won the toss and chose to field, proved correct. Arshdeep Singh dismissed Ryan Rickelton in the very first over. The opening partnership between South Africa’s Quinton de Kock and Temba Bavuma came to an end at 113 runs. After Bavuma was dismissed for 48 by Ravindra Jadeja, the team had to rebuild the innings.

    The major turning point of the match came in the last ball of the 33rd over. After scoring a century, de Kock misjudged a perfect delivery from Prasidh Krishna and was bowled. From that point, South Africa’s scoring rate slowed significantly. The lower-middle order failed to accelerate, with only Dewald Brevis scoring 29 runs off 29 balls.

    Kuldeep Yadav’s bowling figures were impressive—4 wickets for just 41 runs in 10 overs. Prasidh Krishna also took 4 wickets. With this excellent bowling performance, Indian bowlers took complete control of the match.

    After South Africa’s innings of 270, India needs 271 runs to win. This match is crucial for India in their fight to save the series. The team’s excitement was evident, especially after winning the toss, with bowling coach Morne Morkel congratulating Rahul.

    In this Visakhapatnam match, the aggressive mindset of Indian bowlers and the magic of Chinaman spin seem to have brought a new twist to the series.

  • IPL 2026 : After Retirement, Andre Russell Tops the World with a Unique T20 Record

    IPL 2026 : After Retirement, Andre Russell Tops the World with a Unique T20 Record

    In T20 cricket, the name Andre Russell is synonymous with power, aggression, and match-winning performances. The Kolkata Knight Riders’ star all-rounder retired from the IPL (IPL 2026) just six days ago. But even after announcing his retirement, his storm with bat and ball hasn’t stopped. Within a week of retiring, he has created a unique world record—one that no cricketer had ever achieved before. The West Indies all-rounder has now etched his name in a milestone previously untouched in cricket history.

    IPL থেকে অবসরের পরেই বিশ্বরেকর্ড গড়ে তালিকার শীর্ষে আন্দ্রে রাসেল

     

    First Ever to Top All Three Lists in T20 Cricket

    126 players have scored 5000 or more runs in T20 cricket.

    Only 6 bowlers have taken 500 or more wickets.

    Only 10 players have hit 500 or more sixes.

    Andre Russell is the only cricketer who appears in all three lists.

    On Friday, playing for Abu Dhabi Knight Riders against Desert Vipers in the ILT20, Russell picked up his 500th T20 wicket, creating history. He is now the first player in the world to achieve:

    5000+ runs

    500+ wickets

    500+ sixes

    in the T20 format. Historic Milestone in His 576th Match.

    After 576 T20 matches, Russell’s career numbers now stand at:

    Runs: 9,496

    Wickets: 500

    Sixes: 772

    Earlier, Shakib Al Hasan and Dwayne Bravo had achieved the double milestone of 5000 runs and 500 wickets in T20s, but neither came close to Russell’s towering six-hitting record.

    On Friday, coming in at No. 6, Russell scored 36 off 23 balls, including 3 fours and 2 sixes. However, his milestone knock wasn’t enough to secure victory. Abu Dhabi Knight Riders posted 171/6, but Desert Vipers chased it down in 19.3 overs, powered by Shimron Hetmyer’s destructive 48.

    A New Role Ahead

    After retiring from the IPL last Sunday, Russell will soon take up the role of assistant coach for KKR. However, he remains active in various franchise leagues—meaning many more milestones could still be waiting for him.

    This rare T20 triple crown cements Andre Russell not just as one of the greatest all-rounders of his era, but as one of the greatest in the entire history of the T20 format.

  • Lionel Messi Might Not Play in FIFA World Cup! What Did Argentine Star Say?

    Lionel Messi Might Not Play in FIFA World Cup! What Did Argentine Star Say?

    There’s still uncertainty about whether Lionel Messi will play in the 2026 FIFA World Cup. The Argentine superstar himself has left things unclear. In an interview with ESPN, “LM10” stated that while he is hopeful about participating, he has not yet made a final decision, and in the worst-case scenario, he might end up watching the matches live from home.

    বিশ্বকাপ খেলবেন না মেসি! একী বললেন আর্জেন্টাইন তারকা?

     

    Messi said, “I’ve said before that I’m hopeful about playing in next year’s World Cup. But if things go really badly, I might just watch the games from home. Even that would be special for me. The World Cup is special for everyone, especially for the participating countries. And we (Argentina) experience it differently when it happens.”

    Having joined Major League Soccer’s Inter Miami after leaving Europe in 2023, experts believe Messi can adapt to the weather conditions in the host countries—USA, Canada, and Mexico. However, even if Messi doesn’t play, his teammates have enough strength to try to retain Argentina’s title.

    He added, “Everyone in the Argentina team is a champion. They all have a strong mentality and a hunger for more victories. It’s contagious. You can see it in their training—they give everything they have.”

    Messi also emphasized the crucial role of coach Lionel Scaloni and his staff in maintaining a healthy and strong team environment. He revealed that he stays in constant communication with Scaloni regarding participation in the World Cup. Messi said, “He is ready to play me in any position I prefer. Our relationship is very trusting. We can openly discuss anything.”

    Overall, Messi’s participation in the 2026 World Cup remains uncertain, leaving fans in suspense. Meanwhile, according to Indian time, the draw for the upcoming World Cup is scheduled to take place Friday night, heightening anticipation for fans worldwide.

  • IPL 2026 : Shah Rukh Khan’s KKR Targeting These Four Potential Stars in the Auction!

    IPL 2026 : Shah Rukh Khan’s KKR Targeting These Four Potential Stars in the Auction!

    After a disappointing IPL 2025 (IPL 2026) campaign, the Kolkata Knight Riders (KKR) champions in 2024 are ready to rebuild and fight again. The team finished eighth last season, winning only five out of 14 matches. A change in captaincy, out-of-form batters, and inconsistent performances made the season one to forget.

    নিলামে সম্ভাব্য এই চার তারকাকে টার্গেট শাহরুখের দলের!

    With the retention deadline approaching on 15 November, KKR plans to keep its core intact but is preparing major changes ahead of the 16 December mini-auction and during the trade window. Sources suggest the franchise has identified five big names as potential targets — and four of them stand out prominently.

    1. Luke Wood: Adding New Firepower to the Pace Attack

    England’s Luke Wood could be a smart pick for KKR. With over 210 wickets in 199 T20 matches and an economy rate of 8.42, he brings swing, variation, and experience across leagues like the PSL, ILT20, and BPL.
    His ability to swing the ball both ways — especially the inswinger to right-handers — gives KKR a useful weapon.
    Though he got limited opportunities at Mumbai Indians in 2024, KKR could offer him a bigger role.

    2. Tom Banton: The Wicketkeeping Solution?

    Once seen as England’s next T20 superstar, Tom Banton has returned to form. Across leagues like the ILT20 and Vitality Blast, he has scored 4700+ runs with a strike rate close to 144.
    KKR struggled heavily in the wicketkeeper-batter position due to the failures of Gurbaz and de Kock.
    Banton’s ability to play spin and accelerate in the middle overs makes him a strong option.
    He was part of KKR in the 2020–21 seasons, and a return could see a more mature version of him.

    3. Prithvi Shaw: Aggression in the Powerplay

    Despite going unsold in IPL 2025, Prithvi Shaw has rediscovered form in domestic cricket, scoring back-to-back centuries in the Buchi Babu tournament.
    KKR’s opening woes were a major weakness last season. Shaw’s 1892 IPL runs and 147+ strike rate make him a dangerous powerplay striker.
    With Ajinkya Rahane’s future uncertain, KKR may look to rebuild their top order around Shaw.

    4. Cameron Green: The Successor to Andre Russell?

    As Andre Russell approaches the twilight of his career, KKR may eye Australia’s Cameron Green as the long-term replacement.
    Across stints with RCB and Mumbai Indians, Green has produced 707 runs and 16 wickets in 29 matches.
    If KKR releases big contracts like Venkatesh Iyer and Anrich Nortje, they can free up nearly 30 crore, giving them the financial space to target Green.
    His flexibility in the batting order and ability to bowl key overs make him a potential superstar all-rounder for the franchise.

    The upcoming trade window presents KKR with a golden opportunity. bSmart recruitment, strategic investments, and the right mix of youth and experience could give the franchise the balance it lacked last season. If their plans work out, the Knight Riders could be back in the championship race as early as the 2026 season.

  • East Bengal Storm Into Super Cup Final With Commanding 3–1 Win Over Punjab FC

    East Bengal Storm Into Super Cup Final With Commanding 3–1 Win Over Punjab FC

    East Bengal booked their place in the AIFF Super Cup final for the third time with a composed and clinical 3–1 victory over Punjab FC at the PJN Stadium in Fatorda, Goa, on Thursday, December 4, 2025. The triumph also marks the club’s second major final of the season, following their narrow loss to Mohun Bagan SG in the IFA Shield.

    The Kolkata giants started brightly and took the lead in the 12th minute through Mohamad Bashim Rashid. A rehearsed short-corner routine saw Miguel Ferreira’s delivery only partially cleared, and the ball fell invitingly to Rashid at the edge of the area. The Maldivian midfielder controlled superbly before drilling a low shot that slipped under goalkeeper Muheet Shabir’s glove—his first goal for the club.

    Punjab FC responded with urgency and were rewarded in the 34th minute. A mishap in the East Bengal box saw Ricky Shabong’s clearing header rebound off Bipin Singh’s arm, prompting the referee to award a penalty. Daniel Ramirez converted confidently, sending Prabhsukhan Singh Gill the wrong way to level the score.

    But East Bengal regained control at a crucial moment, striking just before the interval. Deep into first-half stoppage time, Miguel Ferreira delivered another pinpoint corner, and defender Kevin Sibille rose highest to nod home a powerful header. The goal sparked jubilant celebrations, which also saw head coach Oscar Bruzon receive a second yellow card for overexuberance.

    After the break, East Bengal tightened their grip on the contest. Bipin Singh and Hiroshi Ibusuki both came close to extending the lead, but it was captain Saul Crespo who delivered the decisive blow in the 71st minute. Once again, Ferreira was the architect—slaloming past multiple defenders before laying the ball off for Crespo, who placed a tidy left-footed finish into the bottom corner.

    Punjab FC struggled to break down East Bengal’s disciplined defensive structure in the closing stages. Their best late opportunity came when Ramirez threaded a pass to Bede Amarachi Osuji, but the Nigerian forward’s effort was comfortably saved by Gill.

    East Bengal nearly added further gloss to the scoreline when Ferreira danced past defenders again, only to fire narrowly wide. Nevertheless, the Red and Gold brigade held firm until the final whistle, celebrating a well-earned spot in yet another major final.

    With momentum and confidence on their side, Oscar Bruzon’s men now turn their focus to lifting the coveted AIFF Super Cup trophy.

  • India vs South Africa : Markram’s Century Guides Proteas to Thrilling Four-Wicket Win Over India

    India vs South Africa : Markram’s Century Guides Proteas to Thrilling Four-Wicket Win Over India

    South Africa defeated India by four wickets in a high-scoring second ODI in Raipur on Wednesday, leveling the three-match series 1-1. (India vs South Africa)

    Tata Steel World 25K Kolkata Marks 10th Edition with Inspiring Pacers

    Batting first, India posted a formidable total of 358 for 5. Virat Kohli scored 102 off 93 balls, marking his 53rd ODI century, while Ruturaj Gaikwad notched his maiden ODI hundred, making 105 off 83 balls.

    In response, South Africa chased down the target, scoring 362 for 6 in 49.2 overs. Aiden Markram led the way with a century (110), supported by fifties from Matthew Breetzke (68) and Dewald Brevis (54). This chase equaled the joint-highest successful ODI target against India, previously set by Australia in 2019.

    Despite India’s strong batting performance in front of 60,000 spectators, South Africa capitalized on the dewy conditions to chase the total. When Brevis was dismissed for 54 off 34 balls, South Africa still needed 70 runs from 57 balls with six wickets in hand.

    A brief collapse saw Breetzke and Marco Jansen fall in successive overs, leaving South Africa needing 37 off 33 balls with four wickets remaining. Tony de Zorzi’s potential hamstring injury added further tension to the chase, joining Nandre Burger, who had left the field earlier due to injury.

    Ultimately, South Africa required 27 runs from 30 balls. Corbin Bosch’s aggressive batting, combined with Keshav Maharaj’s calm finishing, guided them to victory, leaving India to rue missed opportunities. Early dropped chances, especially the drop of Markram, proved costly, allowing South Africa to build a strong platform and complete the thrilling chase.

    Score Summary:

    South Africa: 362/6 (Markram 110, Breetzke 68, Brevis 54; Arshdeep 2-54, Prasidh 2-85)

    India: 358/5 (Gaikwad 105, Kohli 102; Jansen 2-63)

    Result: South Africa won by 4 wickets

  • Referee Training Programme Takes Centre Ice in Delhi Ahead of Royal Enfield Ice Hockey Season

    Referee Training Programme Takes Centre Ice in Delhi Ahead of Royal Enfield Ice Hockey Season

    A dedicated Referee Training Programme has kicked off in New Delhi ahead of the Royal Enfield Ice Hockey Season 3. Designed to enhance officiating standards, the initiative brings together referees from diverse backgrounds, fostering skill development and consistency on the ice. The programme emphasizes inclusivity, ensuring opportunities for officials across different regions and experiences, while providing structured coaching support to sharpen decision-making and game management. Organizers aim to build a strong officiating ecosystem that can meet the demands of high-altitude leagues, ensuring fair and competitive play. This proactive step reflects the league’s commitment to professionalism, growth, and the overall development of ice hockey in India.

  • Super Cup 2025 : FC Goa vs Mumbai City FC Semi-Final Preview

    Super Cup 2025 : FC Goa vs Mumbai City FC Semi-Final Preview

    The race for a place in the AIFF Super Cup 2025 final reaches boiling point on Thursday, December 4, 2025, with a high-stakes double-header in Fatorda, Goa. East Bengal FC face Punjab FC in the first semi-final at 16:00 IST, followed by defending champions FC Goa taking on Mumbai City FC at 20:00 IST at the PJN Stadium. Both matches will be broadcast on Star Sports Khel and streamed live on JioHotstar.

    FC Goa vs Mumbai City FC (20:00 IST)

    The second semi-final brings together two teams with contrasting momentum but identical ambitions. Mumbai City FC arrive after a long training block without competitive fixtures, while FC Goa come into the game battle-hardened from their AFC Champions League Two campaign. Beyond a spot in the final, both teams are fighting for a route back to continental football.

    East Bengal, Punjab FC Set for Blockbuster Super Cup Semi Final

    Mumbai City FC: “Heart, Character, Commitment”

    Head coach Petr Kratky expressed confidence in his squad’s preparation:

    “I’m very happy with the work we’ve done over the last few weeks. Goa are a very good team and in full rhythm because of the ACL Two, but we’ve prepared as best as possible.”

    This is Mumbai City’s third consecutive Super Cup semi-final, and midfielder Brandon Fernandes is targeting his first-ever final with the club.

    “It’s a massive semi-final for us. We want to reach the final and return to AFC competition — that’s our motivation.”

    Will Joy Gupta Play Super Cup 2025 Semifinal?

    Kratky emphasized Mumbai City’s attacking identity:

    “We want to play aggressive, attacking football — the style Mumbai is known for. We are building an environment where every player is ready and important. What matters is heart, character, and commitment.”

    Facing his former team, Fernandes added:

    “The past is the past. Tomorrow is about the present. Goa is my former club, but my focus is on helping Mumbai win.”

    FC Goa: Battle-Hardened but Weary

    FC Goa head coach Manolo Márquez acknowledged that his squad is navigating a unique situation:

    East Bengal coach Oscar Bruzon Weighs Defensive Options Ahead of Semifinal

    “We are training more and playing more because of the AFC Champions League Two, but the long gaps between matches make it mentally demanding. Still, strong matches are better preparation than training alone.”

    Defender Ronney Wilson Kharbudon, who made his debut against Al Nassr earlier this season, echoed his coach’s sentiments:

    “Playing such matches helps every player improve. Training has been good since we returned from Iraq. We’re focused and want to reach the final.”

    A Fixture Known for Goals

    Whenever FC Goa and Mumbai City FC meet, entertainment is guaranteed — 16 goals in their last five meetings. Mumbai City enjoyed a 10-game unbeaten run against Goa before the Gaurs ended it with a 3–1 win in Mumbai last February.

    Márquez expects another high-quality encounter:

    “Every competition is different. Mumbai City are one of the biggest teams in the ISL, with strong foreigners and national team players. Both teams like attacking, possession football. It should be a good match, but in football, you never know.”