Sanju Samson seeks a move from Rajasthan Royals, while Ravichandran Ashwin readies to leave CSK, whereas there are new developments in the football sector
as well.
Check out the 11 unmissable stories on August 11 across the world of sports - which involves IPL trade chances, a horrific accident and other details.
1. Sanju Samson Seeks Exit from Rajasthan Royals Ahead of IPL 2026 Auction
Sanju Samson has reportedly requested a release from Rajasthan Royals, creating a major talking point ahead of the upcoming auction. Retained for ₹18 crore last season, he is the franchise's most capped player and highest run-scorer, but rumored disagreements with management have surfaced. Both Kolkata Knight Riders and Chennai Super Kings are monitoring his availability, with Samson said to prefer a CSK move. If he departs, RR may rebuild their middle order with fresh talent.
2. Ravichandran Ashwin Set to Leave Chennai Super Kings
Veteran spinner Ravichandran Ashwin is poised to end his second stint with Chennai Super Kings after joining them in 2025 for ₹9.75 crore. He has also decided to step down from his role as CSK Academy's Director of Operations to avoid a conflict of interest if he signs elsewhere. While the reasons for his exit remain undisclosed, the move marks a significant shift for both Ashwin and CSK.
3. Ajinkya Rahane Applauds Jasprit Bumrah's Honest Workload Management
Rahane has lauded Jasprit Bumrah's clarity in communicating his availability for the Anderson-Tendulkar Trophy against England, where Bumrah informed management that he would feature in only three of the five Tests. This upfront approach was praised as courageous and essential for preserving his longevity while ensuring key performances in crucial matches.
4. Suryakumar Yadav Resumes Training at NCA After Sports Hernia Surgery
After undergoing sports hernia surgery in July 2025, Suryakumar Yadav is back at the National Cricket Academy for recovery and training. The dynamic batter recently completed his first post-surgery net session as part of preparations for the Asia Cup starting on September 9. His progress will be closely tracked given his history of injuries in recent years.
5. Pakistan's Haider Ali Arrested in UK on Rape Charge
Pakistan cricketer Haider Ali has been arrested in Manchester over an alleged rape incident that took place on July 23, 2025. The PCB has provisionally suspended him as legal proceedings continue. Considered one of Pakistan's promising young batters, Ali has been released on bail pending further investigation.
6. Dodda Ganesh Slams LSG for KL Rahul's Omission in Social Media Post
Former India pacer Dodda Ganesh criticized Lucknow Super Giants for leaving KL Rahul out of a celebratory social media post, despite his 532 runs in a recent series. Ganesh termed the decision "embarrassing," hinting it may have been deliberate, given Rahul's key role in India's success.
7. Benjamin Sesko Joins Manchester United in €76.5 Million Transfer from RB Leipzig
Manchester United have secured the signing of Slovenian striker Benjamin Sesko on a five-year deal until 2030. The transfer from RB Leipzig is valued at €76.5 million plus add-ons. Despite interest from Newcastle, Sesko opted for United and will be unveiled before fans in a friendly against Fiorentina. He expressed enthusiasm about developing under the club's vision.
8. Heung Min Son Credits Lionel Messi for Inspiring LAFC Move
South Korean star Heung Min Son has joined LAFC, citing Lionel Messi's move to MLS as a key influence. Having previously admired Messi's global impact, Son said the chance to play alongside him again and witness his transformative effect on the league were decisive factors in the switch.
9. Bolivian Footballer Suffers Testicular Injury from Firework Accident
In a freak incident during a domestic league match in Bolivia, a player sustained serious testicular damage after being struck by a firework that exploded near the pitch. The rare but severe injury has sparked safety concerns about crowd management and match-day security in the region.
10. Netherlands to Tour Bangladesh for 3 T20Is Ahead of Asia Cup 2025
The Netherlands cricket team will play a three-match T20I series in Bangladesh as part of their build-up to the Asia Cup. Both teams will see this as an opportunity to fine-tune strategies and gain competitive practice ahead of the multi-nation event. All the matches will be played in Sylhet as the tournament starts from August 30.
11. AC Milan Eye Move for Manchester United Striker Rasmus Hojlund
AC Milan are exploring a move for Danish forward Rasmus Hojlund, who has fallen out of favor at Manchester United. The Serie A club views him as a potential solution to strengthen their attacking options for the upcoming season, with transfer talks expected to progress in the coming weeks.
