From major developments in Indian cricket and football to significant updates in world badminton and the transfer market, Tuesday brought plenty of headlines
across the sporting world.
India's Sri Lanka Test preparations received a tweak, Zaheer Khan entered franchise ownership, while Bruno Guimaraes edged closer to Arsenal. Here's a look at the biggest sports stories you shouldn't miss.
India's Warm-up in Sri Lanka shortened
India's only warm-up match ahead of the Sri Lanka Test series has been shortened from four days to three. The fixture against a Sri Lankan XI will now be played from August 7 to 9 at the NCC Ground in Colombo. While the BCCI had initially announced it as a four-day game, the reason behind the schedule change remains unclear. The two-Test series begins on August 15.
Zaheer Khan Becomes LPL Franchise Co-Owner
Former India pacer Zaheer Khan has become the co-owner of four-time Lanka Premier League champions Anchor Jaffna Kings after Stockholm-based Anchor Sports AB acquired the franchise. The ownership change follows the termination of the previous owners' term following malpractice, as former India U19 cricketer Manjot Kalra was arrested with fixing charges.
Mohammad Amir Unsure Over IPL Participation
Former Pakistan fast bowler Mohammad Amir says he is yet to decide whether he will enter the Indian Premier League despite becoming eligible after acquiring British citizenship. The 34-year-old confirmed he will play in the Pakistan Super League as an overseas player from 2027 and continues to feature as a domestic player in English franchise competitions following his change in nationality.
Jamshedpur FC Says ISL Exit Was a Long-Planned Decision
Tata Steel has clarified that Jamshedpur FC's withdrawal from the Indian Super League was a long-planned strategic decision and not linked to the uncertainty surrounding the league's future and issues with AIFF. The club said it will now refocus on grassroots football development through the Tata Football Academy and community programmes, describing the move as a strategic shift rather than a financial one.
Mohun Bagan hit 8 Goals past South United
Mohun Bagan Super Giant stormed to an emphatic 8-0 victory over South United FC in their Group A clash of the 135th Durand Cup at the Vivekananda Yuba Bharati Krirangan, registering their second consecutive win. Manvir Singh starred with a hat-trick, while Suhail Ahmad Bhat netted twice. Alberto RodrÍguez and Rahul Bheke also scored, alongside an own goal by Noel S. Sahal Abdul Samad orchestrated the attack with multiple assists as Mohun Bagan stayed atop Group A with six points from two matches.
Mexico learn first four matches under Rafa Marquez
Mexico will begin a new chapter under head coach Rafa Márquez with four international friendlies ahead of the CONCACAF Nations League quarter-finals in November. El Tri are set to face Colombia (September 26), Peru (September 29), the United States (October 3) and Chile (October 6). The fixtures will provide Márquez with his first opportunity to assess his squad after he took over duties from Javier Aguirre post FIFA World Cup.
Bruno Guimaraes nears Arsenal move
Arsenal are closing in on Bruno Guimaraes from Newcastle. The clubs are near a "total agreement," with the Brazil midfielder awaiting permission for a medical. Fees of around £80-90m (€90m) have been discussed after earlier bids were rejected. Personal terms are agreed on a long-term deal. Guimaraes joined Newcastle's La Manga pre-season camp but is expected to depart soon to complete the move.
PV Sindhu Seeded Ninth, Satwik-Chirag Fifth for BWF World Championships
PV Sindhu and the men's doubles pair of Satwiksairaj Rankireddy-Chirag Shetty will spearhead India's challenge at the BWF World Championships in New Delhi from August 17-23. Sindhu has been seeded ninth, while Satwik-Chirag are fifth seeds. Lakshya Sen (14th) and mixed doubles pair Dhruv Kapila-Tanisha Crasto (15th) are India's other seeded entries. The tournament draw will be held on Wednesday.
Infantino Calls Crisis Meeting Amid FIFA Power Struggle
FIFA president Gianni Infantino has summoned senior staff to a crisis meeting in Rabat, Morocco, as fallout intensifies from his abandoned plan to sell private stakes in the World Cup. The proposal sparked UEFA's boycott threat, resignations, and European federations withdrawing re-election support. Jordan's FA accused him of blackmail over funding recently, and UEFA have already condemned the plan publicly.
