Sports Bulletin For January 27: The sports world witnessed major developments across cricket, tennis and motorsport, with fresh twists in the T20 World Cup drama, IPL ownership buzz, Australian Open shocks and encouraging updates from Formula One. Here are the top sports stories making headlines today.
1) Can Bangladesh Still Play T20 World Cup 2026? There's Still An Outside Chance! Here's How
Bangladesh's chances of returning to the ICC Men's T20 World Cup 2026 are not entirely over despite their recent removal from the tournament. While the ICC dropped Bangladesh after the BCB refused to travel to India over security concerns, an unlikely turn of events could still change the situation. Reports suggest that if Pakistan decides to withdraw from the tournament in protest,
the ICC may consider allowing Bangladesh back into the competition at the last moment.
2) Pakistan May Wear Black Armbands vs India in T20 World Cup To Support Bangladesh: Report
Pakistan will go ahead with its much-anticipated T20 World Cup clash against India in Colombo after receiving approval from the government, ending speculation over a possible boycott. The decision followed talks between PCB chairman Mohsin Naqvi and Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif. Earlier, the PCB had explored drastic options, including skipping the match or pulling out of the tournament, amid tensions linked to Bangladesh's exclusion from the event. While Pakistan is set to play the fixture, reports suggest the team could still stage a symbolic protest, such as wearing black armbands or releasing a statement in support of Bangladesh.
3) RCB Sale Buzz Grows as Anushka Sharma Eyes Minority Stake: Report
Talks around a possible change in ownership of Royal Challengers Bengaluru are gaining momentum, with new investors being linked to the IPL franchise. After Adar Poonawalla's name surfaced earlier, reports now suggest that Bollywood actress Anushka Sharma may also be interested in investing in the team. As per The Financial Express, she is considering buying a small minority stake-around three percent-in RCB, which could cost close to ₹400 crore based on the franchise's current valuation.
4) Australian Open Hit by Extreme Heat as Roofs Closed and Outdoor Matches Halted
The Australian Open was hit by extreme weather on Tuesday as temperatures soared to dangerous levels, prompting organisers to trigger the tournament's highest heat alert. With the mercury expected to touch 45°C, officials shut stadium roofs and suspended matches on outdoor courts, shifting key quarterfinals indoors to protect players and fans.
5) ICC Reworking T20 World Cup Accreditation After Controversy
The ICC is reportedly reviewing its media accreditation procedure for Bangladeshi journalists covering the T20 World Cup in India after Bangladesh pulled out of the tournament over security concerns. Amid the changes, some Bangladeshi reporters have alleged that their accreditation applications were turned down by the global body.
6) Australia Pacer Kane Richardson Retires From Cricket
Australian pacer Kane Richardson has announced his retirement from professional cricket, concluding a career that lasted almost 20 years across international, domestic and T20 leagues. A member of Australia's 2021 T20 World Cup-winning squad, he bows out as a dependable and consistent fast bowler.
7) Elina Svitolina Stuns Coco Gauff In Straight Sets To Enter AO26 Final Four
Elina Svitolina stunned third seed Coco Gauff at the Australian Open, cruising into the semi-finals with a dominant 6-1, 6-2 win in just 59 minutes. The Ukrainian played near-perfect tennis as Gauff struggled badly on serve, making the match a one-sided affair.
8) Michael Schumacher is now able to sit upright and move with a wheelchair: Report
Michael Schumacher has reportedly made encouraging progress in his recovery more than 12 years after his skiing accident. According to media reports, the F1 legend can now sit upright and use a wheelchair with assistance, marking a significant step in his largely private rehabilitation journey.
