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Sports Bulletin For December 14: From on-field milestones to off-field flashpoints, the sporting world witnessed a packed day of major developments. Controversies
flared in the Ashes, emotional farewells marked the end of iconic careers, and historic feats were achieved across cricket and squash. Here's a quick look at the top sports stories making headlines.
1) Australian Media Clashes With Ben Stokes, Leads To Huge Flare-Up
Tensions around the Ashes escalated ahead of the third Test in Adelaide on December 17 after a heated exchange involving England's camp and Australian media at the airport.
Sunday Mail reporter Darren Chaitman claimed the incident began when he questioned England captain Ben Stokes about potential "sightseeing" in Adelaide. Video footage shows Stokes objecting to being filmed without his knowledge and expressing his displeasure to team security. Chaitman further alleged that a member of England's security staff later directed an offensive remark at him near the baggage area, though this was not captured on camera.
2) Sourav Ganguly, Organisers Requested Messi Not To Leave; Footballer's Team Denied: Report
Former India captain Sourav Ganguly and chief organiser Satadru Dutta reportedly urged Lionel Messi to stay back longer at the Salt Lake Stadium, but their requests were turned down by the Argentine's entourage. As per an ABP Ananda report, Messi's team decided against it after sensing a possible security threat during the opening event of the GOAT Tour in Kolkata on Saturday, December 13.
3) John Cena Bids Emotional Final Goodbye To WWE Universe After Saturday Night's Main Event
It may sound unbelievable, but it has finally happened - John Cena has brought the curtain down on his legendary WWE career. At Saturday Night's Main Event in Washington, D.C., the iconic superstar made his final in-ring appearance, taking on Gunther in an emotional bout. Despite a spirited effort, Cena was defeated, marking the end of an era in professional wrestling.
4) Babar Azam Out For 2 On Big Bash League Debut For Sydney Sixers
Pakistan star Babar Azam endured a disappointing start to his Big Bash League journey as he turned out for the Sydney Sixers against the Perth Scorchers at Optus Stadium on Sunday, December 14. The right-hander managed only 2 runs off five deliveries before being dismissed by Brody Couch in the third over.
The rain-affected contest was shortened to 11 overs a side, and despite big hopes riding on Babar - the leading run-scorer in T20I history - he was unable to make a telling contribution with the bat.
5) India Reaches Historic Maiden Squash World Cup Final
India stand just one victory away from creating history. The hosts delivered a commanding all-round display on Saturday, defeating two-time champions Egypt 3-0 to book a maiden final appearance at the Squash World Cup. The second-seeded Indian team will now take on Hong Kong China in the summit clash at Express Avenue Mall, after Hong Kong narrowly overcame Japan in the other semifinal.
6) WPL Competitor? PCB Consider Launching Its Own Women's Franchise Tournament
The Pakistan Cricket Board (PCB) is weighing the idea of launching a franchise-style T20 league for women. Speaking to Cricbuzz, women's wing head Rafia Haider said the board is taking a cautious approach and wants to ensure all groundwork is in place before moving ahead.
Several leading cricket nations, including India, Australia and England, already run successful women's franchise tournaments. In India, the BCCI has seen major gains from the Women's Premier League, which has grown rapidly over three seasons, boosting the game's popularity while discovering new talent and further elevating established international players.
7) WBBL Great Elyse Villani Retires After Lifting Maiden Title With Hobart Hurricanes
Elyse Villani signed off from the Women's Big Bash League in storybook fashion on Saturday, leading the Hobart Hurricanes to their maiden title.
The Hurricanes defeated the Perth Scorchers by eight wickets at Ninja Stadium after restricting them to 135/5, thanks to key wickets from Heather Graham, Lauren Smith and Linsey Smith. Lizelle Lee starred in the chase with a fluent 77, supported by Nat Sciver-Brunt and Dani Wyatt-Hodge. At 36, Villani also became the oldest captain to win the WBBL.
8) Jharkhand Script Huge History In SMAT With 6-Wicket Victory Over Punjab
Jharkhand on Friday (December 12) scripted history by pulling off the highest successful run chase in Syed Mushtaq Ali Trophy history, overhauling a massive target of 236 to beat Punjab by six wickets in their Super League Group A match on Friday.
The previous record was held by Mumbai, who chased down 230 runs against Andhra Pradesh last season.
