Sports Bulletin, September 1: Jasprit Bumrah's return to India's T20I squad remains uncertain as he continues his recovery from a left-knee injury, with
team management taking a cautious approach. While his comeback could be delayed, India have received a fitness boost with Hardik Pandya, Nitish Kumar Reddy and Washington Sundar nearing full readiness.
Away from cricket, Lionel Messi has brought an extraordinary 20-year international career to an end, announcing his retirement from Argentina duty. The legendary captain leaves behind a remarkable legacy, including Copa America triumphs in 2021 and 2024 and the 2022 FIFA World Cup.
Meanwhile, the US Open witnessed a major upset as Argentina's Mariano Navone stunned Novak Djokovic in a gruelling five-set marathon, taking advantage of the Serbian's physical struggles in the final two sets to seal one of the biggest wins of his career.
Here is your daily wrap from sports in the Sports Bulletin of September 1.
Jasprit Bumrah Won't Be Rushed
Jasprit Bumrah's availability for India's T20I series against Afghanistan remains uncertain as he recovers from a left-knee injury at the Centre of Excellence in Bengaluru. Management is taking a cautious approach to avoid rushing him, making the Asian Games a more realistic return target. Meanwhile, India received a fitness boost with all-rounders Hardik Pandya and Nitish Kumar Reddy cleared for selection, while spinner Washington Sundar is also nearing a return after completing his rehab.
Mayank Agarwal Gets County Recall With Durham
Indian batter Mayank Agarwal has signed a short-term deal with Durham for the final four games of the County Championship season. He replaces South Africa's David Bedingham, who returned home for his country's red-ball campaign. Agarwal, who previously represented Yorkshire in 2025, joins to strengthen the top order as Division Two leaders Durham push for promotion back to Division One. The 35-year-old brings vast experience, boasting nearly 9,000 first-class runs and 21 Test appearances for India.
Lionel Messi Announces International Retirement
Argentine legend Lionel Messi has announced his retirement from international football, calling it the right moment to step aside and make way for the next generation. Over an extraordinary 20-year international career, the 39-year-old skipper led Argentina to back-to-back Copa America titles in 2021 and 2024, alongside the ultimate prize, the 2022 FIFA World Cup in Qatar. Messi expressed great pride and gratitude, stating he leaves with unforgettable memories having given everything for the national shirt.
Van Dijk Makes Surprise Public Statement For Gakpo
Liverpool captain Virgil van Dijk has publicly urged forward Cody Gakpo to stay at Anfield amid intense transfer deadline day interest from Manchester City. City are reportedly preparing a £75 million bid for the Dutch attacker as they look to bolster their front line. While Liverpool may consider substantial offers to balance their books, Van Dijk highlighted Gakpo's vital role as a quality player and friend, emphasizing that he strongly wants his teammate to remain at the club.
China Masters: Lakshya Sen Leads India's Singles Charge
Following a disappointing BWF World Championships campaign, Lakshya Sen leads India's men's singles attack at the China Masters Super 750, opening against Canada's Victor Lai. Kidambi Srikanth also joins the field. In doubles, star pair Satwiksairaj Rankireddy and Chirag Shetty aim to build momentum for their Asian Games title defense as they return to action. Additionally, India's rising women's singles stars, Unnati Hooda, Tanvi Sharma, and Devika Sihag, will look to make an impact in the main draw.
Mariano Navone stuns Novak Djokovic in US Open
Argentine star Mariano Navone produced a massive US Open upset by defeating Novak Djokovic in a grueling five-set marathon lasting four hours and 36 minutes. Despite entering the match with a 0-4 record in five-setters and little hard-court success, the 25-year-old outlasted a physically struggling Djokovic to win 7-6(5), 5-7, 4-6, 6-2, 6-1. Navone capitalised on Djokovic's compromised movement in the final two sets, securing the win on match point by chasing down a drop volley to seal one of the biggest victories of his career.
