Sports Bulletin For December 11: A busy day in the world of sports brought major updates across cricket, football and global tournaments. Key administrative
decisions, player-centric debates, high-profile visits, and landmark announcements shaped the headlines, offering a mix of action, controversy and anticipation for fans and stakeholders alike.
1) Kohli-Rohit Set For Demotion In BCCI Central Contracts, Shubman Gill To Be Promoted To A+ Category: Report
The BCCI is preparing for a major restructuring of its central contracts at the December 22 AGM, where key changes involving Virat Kohli and Rohit Sharma will be discussed. With both seniors now playing only ODIs after retiring from Tests and T20Is, they are likely to be moved out of the top A+ bracket. The board is expected to promote a new leadership group, with all-format captain Shubman Gill, vice-captain Ravindra Jadeja and fast-bowling mainstay Jasprit Bumrah set for elevation to the A+ category, reflecting their expanded roles and full-format commitments.
2) Will RCB Play IPL 2026 Matches In Chinnaswamy? Decision To Be Taken On THIS Date
Royal Challengers Bengaluru's return to the M. Chinnaswamy Stadium for IPL 2026 is still undecided, but Karnataka Deputy Chief Minister D. K. Shivakumar has clarified that the government has no intention of ending cricket at the venue. He said a final decision will be made after the December 11 cabinet meeting. The issue gained prominence after a tragic stampede outside the stadium during RCB's title celebrations in June, which left 11 people dead and several injured, prompting concerns over safety and crowd management.
3) Kapil Dev Settles Debate: What's More Important- Playing for India or the IPL?
Kapil Dev has weighed in on the ongoing debate of national duty vs franchise cricket, saying players may have different priorities but representing India should remain the top honour. While acknowledging the financial pull of leagues like the IPL, the 1983 World Cup-winning captain said some players might choose T20 leagues, but he personally believes country comes first. "Everyone thinks differently. but for me, playing for India is more important than the IPL," he said.
4) Don't Think I Love Anything More Than Cricket! Smriti Mandhana's First Appearance After Calling Off Marriage
Smriti Mandhana says her connection with cricket is stronger than ever. Speaking at the Amazon Smbhav Summit-her first public appearance since her separation from Palash Mucchal-the India vice-captain reflected on her journey from a 17-year-old debutant in 2013 to a 2024 World Cup winner. She said cricket remains her top priority, adding, "I don't think I love anything more than cricket. Wearing the India jersey motivates you to put everything else aside. "
5) Messi's Hyderabad Visit To Feature Exclusive Photo Opportunity Priced At ₹10 Lakh
Lionel Messi will land in Hyderabad on Saturday for a set of exclusive events, including a meet-and-greet and a three-hour public programme at Uppal Stadium. Organisers announced that only 100 fans can get a photo with the Argentina legend at Falaknuma Palace, priced at ₹9.95 lakh plus GST, with tickets available on the District app.
6) India To Participate In Inaugural Asian Legends Cup; Pakistan, Sri Lanka Among Six Teams
The Board for Veteran Cricket in India (BVCI) has announced the inaugural Asian Legends Cup, a new tournament for 40-plus cricketers from across Asia. The event will be held in Chiang Mai, Thailand, from January 28 to February 4, featuring six teams: India, Pakistan, Sri Lanka, Bangladesh, UAE and Hong Kong. Calling it a milestone, BVCI President Praveen Tyagi said this marks the first time an Indian veterans' team will compete in a continental event.
7) ISL Clubs Request AIFF To Modify Commercial Clauses At Dec 20 AGM
Twelve Indian Super League clubs have urged the All India Football Federation to revise what they call "commercially restrictive" clauses in its constitution at the December 20 AGM, warning that the sport's ecosystem could suffer without urgent changes. Except East Bengal, all ISL teams said that if the AIFF cannot offer a viable commercial model, it should hand over the league's long-term rights to the clubs.
8) Don't Like Pride Events? Deal With It, Says 2026 FIFA World Cup Organizers
Organisers of the 2026 FIFA World Cup in Seattle are standing firm on plans to celebrate Pride during the Egypt-Iran group-stage match on June 26, despite objections from both nations. The fixture coincides with Seattle's annual Pride Weekend and has been promoted locally as the city's "Pride Match. "
SeattleFWC26 spokesperson Hana Tadesse said the city will continue working with LGBTQ+ groups, artists and businesses to highlight Pride events, stressing Seattle's cultural diversity and its commitment to welcoming all visitors with "warmth, respect and dignity. "
