Across the world of sports, there have been many developments which have created shockwaves, joy and despair. From India's win over Sri Lanka to Nick Kyrgios
testing positive for cocaine, have a recap of the unmissable stories in the Sports Bulletin for August 20.
India beat Sri Lanka at Galle
India defeated Sri Lanka by 165 runs in the first Test at Galle, taking a 1-0 lead in the two-match series. Manav Suthar was the star, claiming a match-winning 10-wicket haul, including six in the second innings. Devdutt Padikkal was named Player of the Match after his superb 167 in the first innings and 44 in the second. The win also helped India's WTC prospects as their PCT took a leap from 48 to 53.
India beat Pakistan in Hockey World Cup
India defeated Pakistan 5-3 in a thrilling Pool D encounter at the FIH Men's Hockey World Cup 2026 in Amstelveen, securing a place in the second round. Captain Harmanpreet Singh and Abhishek scored twice each, while Hardik Singh added another. India led 5-2 after three quarters before Pakistan reduced the deficit, but the Indian defence held firm to seal victory.
BCCI shift Duleep Trophy Final to Chennai
The BCCI has shifted the Duleep Trophy final from Bengaluru's Centre of Excellence to Chennai's MA Chidambaram Stadium to allow spectators to attend. The final will be played from September 6 to 10, while the quarterfinals and semifinals remain in Bengaluru. All matches will be streamed live, with the final and select matches also receiving television coverage.
Sri Lanka set to miss star duo in Colombo Test
Sri Lanka will miss Kusal Mendis and Dinesh Chandimal for the second Test against India in Colombo, adding to their batting concerns after the Galle defeat. Mendis is recovering from a hamstring injury suffered during the Lanka Premier League, while Chandimal sustained neck and shoulder injuries during the first Test. Pathum Nissanka, recovering from wrist surgery, is also doubtful, leaving Sri Lanka without three key batters.
East Bengal beat SC Delhi to book Durand Final Spot
East Bengal secured a victory over SC Delhi on penalties to book their spot in the Durand Cup 2026 final. After a goalless draw, Prabhsukhan Gill starred in the penalties as the Kolkata club prevailed 5-3 in the shootout. They will play the winner of the other semifinal between Mohun Bagan and Northeast United on Sunday.
AIFF confirms 13-team ISL season
The All India Football Federation has confirmed that the 2026-27 Indian Super League season will feature 13 clubs. The competition will follow a double round-robin format, with every team playing home and away fixtures. While the participating clubs and format have been finalised, the kick-off date is yet to be announced. The AIFF will release the complete fixture schedule and further season-related details separately in due course.
Diamond Harbour FC fail to pay ISL participation fee
Diamond Harbour FC have failed to pay the second instalment of their ISL participation fee, reportedly ₹55 lakh, by the extended deadline. The 2025-26 Indian Football League champions were consequently left out as the ISL confirmed a 13-team season. DHFC had earned promotion after winning the IFL, but their financial compliance issue has now ended their hopes of making their top-flight debut this season.
Nick Kyrgios tests Positive for Cocaine, admits 'Huge Mistake'
Nick Kyrgios has been provisionally suspended after testing positive for cocaine during an ATP 250 event in Mallorca in June. The ITIA confirmed that a WADA-accredited laboratory detected benzoylecgonine, a cocaine metabolite, in his sample. The suspension has been in place since August 4. Kyrgios admitted the offence, calling it a "huge mistake" and accepting full responsibility.
