locknlockf2c.com – News Highlights & Timely Briefings

US Open: Healthy again, Jannik Sinner breezes into 2nd round, equals Italian record

Jannik Sinner began his US Open title defence with a dominant straight-sets win over Vit Kopriva on August 26. The Italian World No. 1 extended his winning run in hard-court Grand Slams to 22 matches.

Buchi Babu tournament: Ruturaj Gaikwad scores fiery ton, sends strong message to selectors

Ruturaj Gaikwad roared back into form with a brilliant century for Maharashtra in the Buchi Babu Invitational tournament, signaling an end to his recent struggles. After a disappointing start to the competition, Gaikwad's impressive 133 off 144 balls against Himachal Pradesh, including ten boundaries and four sixes took the spotlight.

Sinquefield Cup: R Praggnanandhaa takes joint lead with Fabiano Caruana; D Gukesh drops to bottom half

Indian Grandmaster R Praggnanandhaa showcased a dominant performance, defeating Alireza Firouzja and surging to joint first place in the Sinquefield Cup alongside Fabiano Caruana with a score of 4.5. However, D Gukesh faced a setback, losing to Wesley So and dropping to the bottom standings in the standings. With three rounds remaining, the competition intensifies as Caruana and Praggnanandhaa lead, followed closely by Wesley So and Levon Aronian.

Banned! Jobe Bellingham's father barred from Borussia Dortmund dressing room after heated interaction

Borussia Dortmund has implemented stricter post-match rules, barring players' families from the dressing room area. This decision follows an incident involving Mark Bellingham, father of Jobe Bellingham, who questioned the sporting director about his son's substitution during a recent game. Despite Dortmund downplaying the situation, they aim to prevent future disruptions by limiting access to players, coaches, and officials only.

FIDE World Cup 2025 in India: PM Narendra Modi says 'Chess is gaining popularity among our youth'

Goa is set to host the FIDE World Cup from October 30 to November 27, offering three Candidates Tournament spots and a $2 million prize pool. The event features chess giants like D Gukesh, Magnus Carlsen, and R Praggnanandhaa. India boasts a strong contingent of 21 players, including Viswanathan Anand, as the World Cup returns to India after 23 years.

Asia Cup promo sparks debate for India vs Pakistan focus amid tensions

The official promo for the Asia Cup, with special focus on the India vs Pakistan clash on September 14, has sparked online backlash, with fans citing the Pahalgam terror attack and Virender Sehwag's involvement as key points of contention.

Lucas Vazquez signs for Bayer Leverkusen till 2027 after Real Madrid goodbye

Lucas Vazquez's switch from Real Madrid to Bayer Leverkusen marks the end of an era for the veteran defender. The move opens a fresh Bundesliga chapter, with Xabi Alonso's legacy still looming large at the German club.

Sanju Samson in red-hot form ahead of Asia Cup, shines as opener in Kerala league

Sanju Samson continues his stellar form as the Asia Cup approaches. He scored a blistering 89 in 46 balls to help the Kochi-based franchise post a fighting first-innings total.

Pulwama hosts its first-ever day-night cricket match, draws thousands of spectators

The Royal Premier League kicked off in Pulwama as Royal Goodwill defeated Sultan Springs Baramulla in a thrilling opener, with thousands of fans celebrating the start of Kashmir's biggest local cricketing platform.

Cricket economy struck hard by real money gaming ban

The ripple effects of the recent ban on real money gaming in India will be felt across the cricketing industry - from BCCI to cricketers to cricket leagues

Netherlands recall Zulfiqar, Braat for Bangladesh T20Is

There's also a call-up for for the promising 17 year-old Cedric de Lange

Vijay Shankar set for Tripura switch

The all-rounder confirms obtaining NOC from TNCA and awaits approval from Tripura

'Fresh challenge': Hanuma Vihari joins Tripura after leaving Andhra Pradesh

Hanuma Vihari, celebrated for his resilience against Australia in 2021, is set to represent Tripura in all formats for the 2025-26 season, leaving Andhra Pradesh due to perceived favouritism. Vihari aims for consistent performance and fresh opportunities after a Test career of 839 runs and a strong domestic record of over 9,500 first-class runs.

‘Got out before we reached’: Sehwag’s son blames Delhi traffic for first cricket memory

Aryavir Sehwag recalls a light-hearted incident from his childhood. He missed watching his father, Virender Sehwag, bat in an IPL match in Delhi. Traffic caused the delay. Virender got out before they reached the stadium. Aryavir named this as his earliest childhood memory of his father playing. Aryavir now plays professional cricket. He said that he understands his father's greatness after he started playing professionally.

‘Ghar ki murgi daal barabar’: Virender Sehwag’s son recalls father’s humorous words – Watch

Aryavir Sehwag, son of legendary cricketer Virender Sehwag, is currently playing in the Delhi Premier League. He acknowledges that he is beginning to grasp the magnitude of his father's accomplishments as he pursues a career in professional cricket. Aryavir expresses admiration for his father's extraordinary achievements and draws inspiration from his illustrious career.

201 international wickets, one favourite: Sachin Tendulkar's pick will surprise you

Sachin Tendulkar, celebrated for his batting, also possessed valuable bowling skills. Despite limited opportunities, he claimed 46 Test wickets, with a cherished moment arriving in the 2004 Multan Test. Asked about his favorite wicket, Tendulkar recalled dismissing Moin Khan with a deceptive googly on the day's final ball.

Virat Kohli’s emotional note for Cheteshwar Pujara: ‘Thank you for making my job easier at 4’

Virat Kohli paid tribute to Cheteshwar Pujara, acknowledging his significant contributions to the Indian batting order, especially at the No.3 position. Kohli highlighted Pujara's role in easing his own batting at No.4 and their memorable partnerships. The former Indian skipper congratulated him on his career and wished him well for the future.

US Open 2025: Carlos Alcaraz's buzz cut vs Andre Agassi's bald era - what is similar, what is not

Carlos Alcaraz debuted a shaved head at the US Open. A haircut mishap caused the change. He defeated Reilly Opelka in the first round. Frances Tiafoe and Rory McIlroy teased Alcaraz about his new look. The haircut drew comparisons to Andre Agassi's bald era. Alcaraz's performance remained unaffected by the change.

'GSL not in competition with other T20 leagues but a partnership': Guyana President

Guyana is leveraging its cricket heritage and passionate fanbase to establish itself as a prominent cricket destination with the Cricket West Indies-backed Global Super League (GSL). Guyana President Dr. Mohamed Irfaan Ali envisions the GSL as a collaborative venture, not a competitive one, aiming to partner with major cricket boards and involve ICC.

Chess | It’s official! Goa to host FIDE World Cup with Rs 17.5 Cr prize pool

Goa will host the FIDE World Cup 2025 from October 31 to November 27, featuring 206 players competing for a $2 million prize and 3 qualifying spots for 2026 Candidates Tournament. This eight-round knockout event marks a significant moment for Indian chess, following recent triumphs like D Gukesh's World Championship and team victories at the Chess Olympiad.