Have a look at the unmissable stories across the world of sports for February 6. India begin their T20 World Cup soon and they are dealt with a big blow.
On the other hand, East Bengal have roped in a striker ahead of ISL season.
Harshit Rana ruled out of India squad
India all-rounder Harshit Rana has been ruled out of the ICC Men's T20 World Cup 2026 after sustaining a knee injury (lateral meniscus tear confirmed via scans) during a warm-up match against South Africa in Navi Mumbai on February 4. He bowled just one over before walking off in discomfort. Captain Suryakumar Yadav noted he "doesn't look good," and surgery has been advised, ending his tournament participation. This is a blow to India's pace-bowling options ahead of their opener.
Mohammed Siraj named as replacement for T20 World Cup
Veteran pacer Mohammed Siraj has been named as the official replacement for the injured Harshit Rana in India's squad for the 2026 T20 World Cup, with ICC approval confirmed. Siraj, part of India's 2024 winning team, is set to link up with the squad in Mumbai before the tournament opener against USA on February 7 at Wankhede Stadium. His experience strengthens India's bowling attack as they defend their title on home soil.
Josh Hazlewood to miss T20 World Cup with injury
Australian fast bowler Josh Hazlewood has been ruled out of the entire 2026 T20 World Cup due to ongoing recovery from a combination of hamstring and Achilles tendon injuries. The 35-year-old has not played since mid-November and missed the recent Ashes series. Selectors deemed accelerating his rehab too risky, even for later stages like the Super Eights. This adds to Australia's woes, following Pat Cummins' earlier absence, weakening their pace attack significantly.
Vaibhav Suryavanshi dazzles in U19 World Cup Final
14-year-old Indian batting prodigy Vaibhav Suryavanshi delivered a breathtaking performance in the Under-19 World Cup final against England, smashing a record 175 off just 80 balls (15 sixes, 15 fours, strike rate 218.75) at Harare Sports Club. His explosive knock helped India dominate, setting a new benchmark for the highest score in a U19 World Cup final. The teenager's power-hitting has marked him as a future star with remarkable maturity beyond his years.
Ben Stokes hit by ball during practice
England Test captain Ben Stokes suffered a facial injury, including a black eye, significant bruising, swelling, and cheek graze, after being struck by a cricket ball during a nets session. He was standing on the side coaching Durham's academy when hit, not batting or bowling. Stokes shared a photo on Instagram showing the damage (with a humorous caption about the ball's state). The blow adds to his recent injury concerns but details on severity for upcoming commitments remain unclear.
East Bengal sign Youssef Ezzejjari
East Bengal FC have bolstered their attacking lineup by signing Spanish-Moroccan centre-forward Youssef Ezzejjari on a free transfer ahead of the upcoming Indian Super League season. The experienced striker joins from Singapore Premier League side Tanjong Pagar United, where he showed strong goalscoring form recently. Holding dual nationality, Ezzejjari brings physical presence and finishing ability to the Red and Golds as they aim to strengthen their squad for competitive challenges.
