Check Out the sports stories across the world for Sports Bulletin of February 4. From Delhi Capitals Women qualifying for WPL 2026 to India playing South Africa in a T20 World Cup warm-up match.
Delhi Capitals advance to WPL 2026 Final
Delhi Capitals secured their spot in the WPL 2026 final after a commanding seven-wicket victory over Gujarat Giants in the Eliminator on February 3. Chasing 169, DC's openers Lizelle Lee (43) and Shafali Verma (31) provided a strong start, followed by contributions from Jemimah Rodrigues (41) and Laura Wolvaardt (32*). They reached the target in 15.4 overs, marking their fourth consecutive final appearance. DC will face Royal Challengers Bengaluru in the final on February 5 in Vadodara.
MCC changes Hit Wicket Rule
The Marylebone Cricket Club (MCC) has introduced key amendments to
the Laws of Cricket, effective from October 2026, including clarifications to the Hit Wicket rule (Law 35). A batter is now out if they fall onto the stumps while regaining balance after playing a shot, as "receiving the ball" extends until balance is regained. This codifies existing interpretations and refines scenarios involving loss of balance post-shot.
Ashwin predicts IND vs PAK match in World Cup
Ravichandran Ashwin expressed strong confidence that the India vs Pakistan match in the T20 World Cup 2026 will proceed as scheduled. He stated the clash will happen "100 per cent," predicting Pakistan would reverse their boycott stance within the next few days due to logistical and business implications. The high-profile encounter is set for February 15 in Colombo.
Barcelona beat Albacete in Copa del Rey
Barcelona advanced to the Copa del Rey semi-finals after edging past Albacete 2-1 in the quarter-final on February 3. Lamine Yamal opened the scoring in the first half, with Ronald Araujo adding the second after the break. Despite a late reply from Albacete through Javi Moreno, holders Barcelona held firm to secure progression amid a hard-fought contest.
Arsenal qualify for Carabao Cup Final
Arsenal qualified for the Carabao Cup final following a 1-0 second-leg win over Chelsea on February 3, progressing 4-2 on aggregate. Kai Havertz scored a dramatic last-gasp winner in the 97th minute, haunting his former club. This marks Arsenal's first cup final in six years under Mikel Arteta, setting up a Wembley showdown after a tense semi-final.
India play South Africa in solitary Warm-Up match
India will face South Africa in their solitary warm-up match ahead of the ICC Men's T20 World Cup 2026. The fixture is scheduled for February 4 at the Dr DY Patil Sports Academy in Navi Mumbai, starting at 7:00 PM IST. This contest serves as key preparation for the Men in Blue before the tournament begins, offering a final opportunity to fine-tune combinations.
