Sports Bulletin on January 29: The global sporting landscape on January 29 delivered a compelling mix of high-stakes cricket debates, landmark commercial
developments, leadership transitions, and disciplinary flashpoints across continents.
Indian cricket team found itself under the scanner after a sobering defeat, prompting former players to weigh in on selection clarity and role definition. Elsewhere, Afghanistan's biggest match-winner pushed back against perceptions of decline, while the IPL edged closer to a historic financial milestone that could redefine franchise ownership models.
From Australia naming its next long-term women's captain to Pakistan cricket welcoming back a familiar yet controversial figure, the day's stories reflected how modern sport constantly balances performance, politics, money and perception. Here's a detailed look at the biggest talking points from across the sporting world.
1. Parthiv Patel backs Ishan Kishan over Sanju Samson for 5th T20I
India's 50-run defeat to New Zealand in Visakhapatnam has intensified scrutiny on team balance and batting depth ahead of the T20 World Cup. Speaking on JioHotstar's Amul Cricket Live, former India wicketkeeper Parthiv Patel made a strong case for Ishan Kishan to open the batting in the fifth T20I, urging the team management to treat the remaining matches strictly as World Cup auditions.
Patel was particularly critical of Sanju Samson, questioning both his returns and the manner of his dismissals. According to Patel, repeated failures at the top of the order can no longer be brushed aside as pressure or confidence issues. He stressed that at this stage of Samson's international career, consistency and impact must outweigh potential, especially with a global tournament looming.
In contrast, Patel highlighted Kishan's suitability not just as an opener but also as a first-choice wicketkeeper. He argued that if Kishan is being considered for the World Cup, he must be given sustained match time behind the stumps. With Tilak Varma expected to regain full fitness soon, Patel urged India to make decisive calls now rather than postpone tough selections.
2. Rashid Khan shrugs off "figured out" tag ahead of T20 World Cup
Afghanistan captain Rashid Khan has dismissed suggestions that batters have decoded his bowling, insisting that precision and discipline-not constant reinvention-will define his effectiveness at the upcoming ICC T20 World Cup. Speaking to PTI Videos in an interaction facilitated by Red Bull, Rashid downplayed concerns arising from his relatively modest returns in recent IPL seasons.
Over the past decade, Rashid has transformed the role of leg-spinners in T20 cricket with his pace, control and match-winning consistency. However, quieter campaigns with the Gujarat Titans led to debates around predictability and diminishing impact. Rashid countered that such narratives overlook the cyclical nature of form and conditions, especially in a format driven by fine margins.
The Afghan skipper emphasised that his focus remains on execution rather than chasing new variations. With Afghanistan entering the World Cup as dangerous dark horses, Rashid's clarity of thought and confidence in his core strengths could again make him one of the tournament's most influential figures.
3. Rajasthan Royals set to become IPL's first billion-dollar franchise
The Indian Premier League is on the brink of a historic financial milestone, with Rajasthan Royals poised to become the league's first billion-dollar franchise. Reports suggest that the 2008 champions have attracted record-breaking bids after being put up for sale, underlining the IPL's soaring global valuation.
The sale process, overseen by the Raine Group, reportedly began with a valuation floor of around $1.1 billion, but competitive bidding has pushed offers higher. One leading bid is understood to be close to $1.3 billion, which would mark the most expensive franchise transaction in IPL history and set a new benchmark for sports ownership in India.
Beyond on-field legacy, Rajasthan's valuation reflects the IPL's explosive commercial growth, particularly driven by media rights, sponsorships and global fan engagement. If finalised, the deal could reshape how franchises are structured, funded and marketed in the years ahead.
4. Sophie Molineux to succeed Alyssa Healy as Australia captain
Australia have announced spin all-rounder Sophie Molineux as their new women's T20 captain for the upcoming series against India, with the 26-year-old set to succeed Alyssa Healy as leader across formats after the home assignment. Healy will retire from international cricket following the India series.
Australia's tour begins on February 15, featuring three T20Is, three ODIs and a one-off Test. While Healy will lead the side during the home series, Molineux will take over full-time leadership starting with the tour of the West Indies in March. Tahlia McGrath remains vice-captain, with Ashleigh Gardner appointed co-vice-captain.
Cricket Australia's decision signals a generational shift, placing long-term faith in Molineux's leadership and all-round skill set as Australia plan for sustained dominance across formats.
5. Jason Gillespie returns to Pakistan cricket as PSL franchise coach
Former Australia pacer Jason Gillespie is set to return to Pakistan cricket as head coach of Pakistan Super League's new franchise, Kingsmen Hyderabad. The appointment comes after Gillespie's high-profile exit from the Pakistan men's national setup in late 2024.
Franchise owner Fawad Sarwar confirmed that Gillespie will lead the coaching group, assisted by Grant Bradburn and Craig White, ahead of the PSL 11 auction on February 11. The Kingsmen brand already operates cricket teams and facilities in the United States, adding an international flavour to the new franchise.
Gillespie's earlier stint with Pakistan included a Test series win over England and ODI series victories in Australia and South Africa. However, his resignation over selection authority disputes with the PCB remains a significant subplot as he re-enters Pakistan's cricket ecosystem.
6. Bangladesh shooters cleared for Asian Championships in New Delhi
Despite pulling out of the T20 World Cup in India citing security concerns, Bangladesh has cleared its shooting contingent to compete in the Asian Rifle and Pistol Championships in New Delhi starting February 2. The decision marks a notable contrast in how different sports are assessed for risk.
A two-member Bangladeshi contingent is expected to arrive on January 31 to compete at the Dr. Karni Singh Shooting Range. Officials emphasised that shooting is an indoor sport with limited spectators, significantly reducing security challenges compared to cricket.
Bangladesh's sports authorities also highlighted the importance of maintaining sporting ties and promoting friendship through international competition, even amid broader geopolitical and security sensitivities.
7. Australian Open: Sabalenka storms into fourth straight final
World number one Aryna Sabalenka continued her imperious run at Melbourne Park, defeating Elina Svitolina 6-2, 6-3 to reach her fourth consecutive Australian Open final. The match lasted just 76 minutes, underlining Sabalenka's dominance on hard courts.
Despite a brief setback after being penalised for hindrance, the two-time champion quickly reasserted control. Svitolina showed resilience early in the second set, but Sabalenka responded by winning five straight games to close out the contest.
Sabalenka will face either Jessica Pegula or Elena Rybakina in the final, as she chases yet another Grand Slam title and further cements her status as the sport's leading force.
8. Senegal and Morocco fined after chaotic AFCON final
The Confederation of African Football (CAF) has imposed fines exceeding $1 million and handed out bans following one of the most chaotic AFCON finals in history. Senegal's football federation alone was fined $615,000 for unsporting conduct during the final against Morocco.
Senegal coach Pape Thiaw was banned for five AFCON qualifiers, while players Iliman Ndiaye and Ismaila Sarr will miss two matches each. Morocco were also sanctioned following pitch invasions, VAR disputes and post-match chaos.
Despite the controversy, Senegal went on to win the final in extra time. CAF's strong response underlines its intent to protect the game's integrity after what many described as a damaging episode for African football.
9. Mohamed Salah scores first Liverpool goal since November
Mohamed Salah marked a significant step in his Liverpool rehabilitation by scoring his first goal since November in a 6-0 Champions League win over Qarabag at Anfield. Salah's curling free-kick helped Liverpool qualify directly for the round of 16.
The goal comes amid lingering uncertainty over Salah's future, following public frustration after being dropped by manager Arne Slot late last year. Since returning from the Africa Cup of Nations, Salah has started three straight matches, signalling restored trust.
Liverpool's emphatic victory ensured they avoided the playoffs, providing stability both on the pitch and, potentially, in their relationship with their star forward.
10. Patrick Reed exits LIV Golf, eyes PGA Tour return
Former Masters champion Patrick Reed has announced his departure from LIV Golf, becoming the second major winner to do so after Brooks Koepka. Reed plans to compete on the DP World Tour this year, with hopes of rejoining the PGA Tour as early as September.
Reed, who won the Masters in 2018, cited his traditional roots and emotional connection to the PGA Tour as key reasons for the move. Under current regulations, he will be eligible to return a year after his last LIV appearance in August 2025.
His decision reflects the evolving landscape of men's professional golf, as players reassess long-term legacy, competition and belonging amid shifting tour dynamics.
