Sports Bulletin For January 13: From major shifts in the IPL and a landmark retirement in women's cricket to explosive allegations in Indian boxing and rising concerns ahead of the 2026 World Cup, the sporting world witnessed a flurry of headline-grabbing developments on January 13.
Football saw managerial changes and fan unrest, cricket dealt with visa issues and emotional farewells, and tennis celebrated another historic milestone. Here are the top stories you need to know today.
1) RCB To Play IPL 2026 Matches In Maharashtra And Chhattisgarh, Announcement Soon: Report
Royal Challengers Bengaluru are set to shift their home games away from the M. Chinnaswamy Stadium for IPL 2026. The move follows last year's tragic victory-parade stampede that
killed 11 people and injured more than 50, leaving the venue under prolonged scrutiny.
As per a Times of India report, the defending champions have decided to split their home fixtures between two out-of-state venues. RCB are expected to play five matches in Navi Mumbai and two in Raipur, with the franchise finalising the arrangements after discussions with local authorities. An official announcement is likely soon.
2) Australia Women Legend Alyssa Healy set to Retire after India Series
Australian women's team captain Alyssa Healy has confirmed she will retire from international cricket. The 35-year-old wicketkeeper-batter plans to bow out after Australia's multi-format home series against India scheduled for February-March 2026.
3) 'She Had Affair With Junior Boxer': Boxer Mary Kom's Ex-Husband Makes Explosive Claims
Mary Kom's former husband, Karung Onkholer (Onler), has rejected her allegations that she was cheated out of large sums of money and land bought with her earnings. Calling the claims untrue, Onler countered by accusing the Olympian of past extramarital relationships.
He told IANS that their marital troubles began over a decade ago, alleging Mary had an affair with a junior boxer in 2013, which led to disputes between both families before a settlement was reached. Onler further claimed she has been involved with someone linked to the Mary Kom Boxing Academy since 2017, adding that he possesses WhatsApp chats as evidence.
4) Pakistan-Born USA Pacer Denied Indian Visa Ahead Of T20 World Cup 2026
USA fast bowler Ali Khan has been denied an Indian visa. The Pakistan-born pacer revealed the development on Instagram, sharing a photo with the caption, "India visa denied but KFC for the win. "
The 35-year-old, originally from Attock in Pakistan's Punjab, has represented the USA in 15 ODIs and 18 T20Is, taking 49 international wickets. A member of the USA squad at the 2024 T20 World Cup, he featured against both India and Pakistan, dismissing Rishabh Pant and Fakhar Zaman. He is also expected to be in contention for the 2026 T20 World Cup squad.
5) Nearly 17,000 Tickets For 2026 FIFA World Cup Cancelled: Report
Preparations for the 2026 World Cup have taken a troubling turn, with a sharp rise in fan withdrawals. Amid mounting concerns over safety, political tensions and human rights issues in the United States, FIFA has called an emergency meeting. As per Roya News, roughly 16,800 ticket holders backed out overnight after online boycott campaigns gained momentum.
6) Michael Carrick Agrees To Come Back As Man United Interim Boss - Report
Manchester United are set for a familiar face in the dugout, with Michael Carrick reportedly agreeing in principle to take over as interim head coach for the rest of the season. As per David Ornstein of The Athletic, the club is close to finalising terms, including the makeup of his coaching team, with only minor contract details pending.
If confirmed in time, Carrick is expected to lead United in Saturday's high-stakes derby against Manchester City at Old Trafford.
7) Former KKR, PBKS Spinner Announces Retirement At 31, Says 'I Lived The Dream I Once Only Imagined'
Ten years after emerging as one of the IPL's most talked-about uncapped signings, mystery spinner KC Cariappa has retired from BCCI cricket at 31. His exit brings down the curtain on a career that started with huge hype, eye-catching auction battles and flashes of talent that once made him a fascinating prospect in the league.
8) Even in Absence, Novak Djokovic Makes History With 1,000-Week Streak
Novak Djokovic hasn't hit a ball in 2026, yet he has already reached another remarkable milestone. The Serbian star has now completed 1,000 consecutive weeks in the ATP top 40 - a testament to his consistency and longevity even without playing early in the season.
