West Indies triumph as Pakistan suffer 8th consecutive overseas Test defeat! When did Babar Azam last win a Test abroad? originally appeared on Cricket News. Add Cricket News as a Preferred Source by clicking here.
West Indies beat Pakistan by 90 runs, suffered their 8th straight overseas loss.
Jayden Seales takes 5/20; Babar Azam's 58* not out delays defeat in Trinidad.
Pakistan's poor overseas Test record continues to haunt the team despite a change in captaincy.
West Indies produced a clinical bowling display to seal a 90-run victory over Pakistan shortly after tea on the fourth day of the first Test, with fast bowler Jayden Seales tearing through the visitors' batting order to finish with figures of 5 for 20.

#test #west #Cricket #defeat

The Vita Vea sweepstakes could be heating up. With reports that the disgruntled Tampa Bay Buccaneers defensive tackle requested a trade and would prefer a team based in California, rumors are swirling about a potential San Francisco 49ers connection. ESPN's Jeremy Fowler added more fuel to that fire when he listed the 49ers among five potential trade fits for Vea.
San Francisco's pass-rush numbers make the interest easy to understand, as well as the team's salary cap situation. The 49ers had a league-low 20 sacks in 2025, and Vea has 11.5 sacks over the past two seasons. For his career, Vea has piled up 35 sacks, 34 tackles and seven tackles for loss last season alone, along with 13 quarterback hits, numbers that have made him a two-time Pro Bowler over his eight seasons in Tampa.
One wrinkle worth noting: the 49ers don't run a base 3-4 front like several of Vea's other reported fits, so his usage in Raheem Morris's scheme could look different than in Tampa Bay's system.
The 49ers are sitting on roughly $71 million in cap ****** e, and for the first time in a while, they aren't staring down a looming extension for a homegrown star, giving them room to be aggressive if they wanted to bid.
There's also a geographic pull. Vea grew up in the Stanford, California, area and played at Milpitas High School just miles from Levi's Stadium. Additionally, it would reunite Vea with ex-Buccaneers star Mike Evans. They played eight years together from 2018 to 2025.

#tampa #sacks #numbers #tackles

The Seahawks' contract standoff with Leonard Williams just took a new turn originally appeared on The Sporting News. Add The Sporting News as a Preferred Source by clicking here.
Seattle Seahawks star defensive tackle Leonard Williams is entering the final year of his current contract, but the two-time Pro Bowler isn't letting ongoing extension talks distract him from preparing for the 2026 season.
Williams confirmed Tuesday that his representatives and the Seahawks have had preliminary discussions about a new deal, though nothing has been finalized.
"There's been a few conversations, but nothing set in stone," Williams said.
The 32-year-old veteran is in the final season of the three-year, $64.5 million contract he signed in March 2024, just months after Seattle acquired him from the New York Giants during the 2023 season. Under the Seahawks' long-standing policy, players are not eligible for contract extensions until they have one year remaining on their current deal, making Williams eligible for negotiations this offseason.

#seahawks #contract

When the Rams announced that guard Justin Dedich would open training camp on the non-football injury list, they did not reveal the nature of that injury. Today they explained it.
Rams head coach Sean McVay said Justin Dedich "had a hand accident around the Fourth of July, and so that's kind of what's keeping him out for now."
McVay didn't specifically mention fireworks, but that's the obvious conclusion people will draw from a July 4 hand accident.
During Fourth of July weekend in 2015, two different NFL players lost fingers in fireworks accidents. Giants defensive end Jason Pierre-Paul's injury caused him to miss half that season, although he had a long career after that, including being a Pro Bowler and Super Bowl champion in Tampa Bay in 2020. Buccaneers cornerback C.J. Wilson also suffered a serious hand injury at Fourth of July 2015 and never played again.
There's been no word on the severity of Dedich's injury.

#dedich

FOXBOROUGH, Mass. (AP) — Christian Gonzalez may have an offer from the New England Patriots that would make him the highest-paid cornerback in the NFL. But something is keeping him from accepting it for now.
What that is exactly New England's star defender would rather keep private, even after owner Robert Kraft's public proclamations that the deal the team has put on the table is larger than any offered in Patriots history.
"Everybody knows what Mr. Kraft has done ... I respect what Mr. Kraft has brought to the franchise," Gonzalez said Tuesday. "It's something we don't want to handle to the media and keep that with the team and my (agents) and go on about that."
The ******* umption is that Gonzalez and his representatives are likely holding off an accepting an offer from the Patriots until Seattle Seahawks star cornerback Devon Witherspoon inks his anticipated contract extension first.
Witherspoon, a three-time Pro Bowler who was drafted fifth in 2023 ahead of Gonzalez at No. 17, is reportedly getting close to a deal with the defending Super Bowl championships.

#witherspoon #cornerback #accepting

The Philadelphia Eagles took a massive step back last season. From winning the Super Bowl to bowing out in the Wild Card Round of the playoffs, the letdown was massive for the entire team. Given the state of the offense, a lot of the blame fell directly on Jalen Hurts.
Despite his resume, the dual-threat quarterback has been the subject of a ton of criticism. With some obvious flaws in his game, many believe this could be a make-or-break year for him. However, a franchise icon still remains one of his staunchest supporters.
Hurts' resume is hard to match. A three-time Pro Bowler, who finished in the top two in MVP once, the Eagles star has a lot of upsides to his game. Since he became the season-long starter in 2021, the team has never missed the playoffs.
But this past year, the negatives were more ****** ounced than ever. With wide receiver A.J. Brown shouting from the rooftops about the state of the offense, the blame fell squarely on Hurts as they ranked near the bottom of the league in three-and-out possessions.
LeSean McCoy, though, still believes Hurts can be the answer for the Eagles. During the latest episode of "Speakeasy," he offered a comprehensive defense of the three-time Pro Bowler, even comparing him to another elite quarterback, Joe Burrow.

#three #massive #playoffs #offense

Sri Lanka Women produced a remarkable comeback to clinch their first bilateral ODI series victory over Pakistan Women in 24 years, sealing a 2-1 triumph with a dominant eight-wicket win in the series decider at Hambantota on Tuesday. After dropping the opening ODI, the hosts responded emphatically by chasing down a record target in the second match before delivering a clinical all-round performance in the third to end Pakistan's run of four consecutive ODI series wins over Sri Lanka. It was also Sri Lanka's first bilateral ODI series triumph over Pakistan since 2002.
Pakistan had drawn first blood in the series with a five-wicket victory after restricting Sri Lanka to 210/9 in the opener. However, Sri Lanka responded in spectacular fashion in the second ODI, completing their highest successful run chase in women's ODIs. Vishmi Gunaratne smashed 123, while Harshitha Samarawickrama remained unbeaten on 100 as the hosts chased down 274 with eight wickets in hand to level the series.

That momentum carried into the decider, where Sri Lanka outplayed Pakistan in every department to complete a memorable turnaround.
Asked to bat first, Pakistan suffered a nightmare start as Chetana Vimukthi ripped through the top order in just the second over. The visitors slumped to 10/3, putting themselves under immediate pressure. Gull Feroza and Muneeba Ali steadied the innings with a 68-run partnership, but Sri Lanka captain Chamari Athapaththu broke the stand by dismissing Feroza for 40.

Pakistan's middle order failed to capitalise as another collapse followed. From 110/4, the visitors slipped to 146/7 before captain Fatima Sana played a fighting knock of 41 to lift her side to 187 all out in 40 overs. Athapaththu and Kavisha Dilhari starred with the ball, claiming three wickets each to keep Pakistan below the 200-run mark.
Needing 188 for victory, Sri Lanka lost Vishmi Gunaratne early after she had helped provide another positive start. Captain Chamari Athapaththu quickly seized control, attacking Pakistan's bowlers with trademark aggression. She struck three boundaries and a six in one over before bringing up the 30th fifty-plus score of her ODI career, ensuring Sri Lanka stayed comfortably ahead of the required rate.

Although Athapaththu departed after scoring 52, Harshitha Samarawickrama continued her excellent form, remaining unbeaten on 71, while Hasini Perera provided steady support in an unbroken partnership that guided Sri Lanka home with 76 **** to spare.

Athapaththu's all-round display earned her the Player of the Match award after contributing both with the bat and ball in the series decider. Harshitha Samarawickrama, meanwhile, was named Player of the Series after scoring 173 runs across three matches while being dismissed only once.

The victory marked a significant milestone for Sri Lanka Women's cricket, ending a 24-year wait for an ODI series win over Pakistan and showcasing the team's growing consistency in the 50-over form

The Las Vegas Raiders are set to start training camp within the next month, and as they gear up for an interesting 2026 season, a few players and/or position groups can really make or break the season. The Raiders added a plethora of talent over the last off-season, with the Raiders likely to only return starters at left & right tackle, tight end, runningback, and one wide receiver on offense. Defensively, they likely return 3 starers on the defensive line, one at safety, one at corner, and none at linebacker. Needless, to say the Raiders are turning over the roster with talent, and for a roster that has been void of young talent in previous years, that was crucial. Additionally, they see three or four of their special teams playmakers likely change hands with Daniel Carlson and Jacob Bobenmoyer out, while new kick and punt returners should take the helm as well.
I already broke down the defense, and that article may be live when you are reading this, and if not it will be soon. I've also already broke down the offense.
The Raiders parted ways with Daniel Carlson after 8 seasons, and Carlson saw his FG rate fall steadily since 2020 going from 94.3% to 81.5% in 2025. Additionally, his abilities to hit from 50+ also fell down the board competing just 5 of 8 in 2025 after 8 of 11 in 2024, and 11 of 13 in 2022. The Raiders bring in two options, with veteran Matt Gay looking to rebound his career under DeCamillis, and rookie Kansei Matsuzawa dubbed the "Tokyo Toe, and Special-K". Gay converted 17 of his 23 attempts (74%) in 2025 though he was 4/4 in 2 games with the 49ers. He's struggled to regain his form from 2021-2022 where he 2as a Pro Bowler converting 60/64 field goals including 12/14 from 50+. Those two seasons came under new Raiders special teams coordinator, Joe DeCamillis.

As for Matsuzawa, the 2025 consensus All-American went 39/45 in his Hawaii career and another 72/72 on his PAT's. Matsuzawa is relatively new to kicking, having only done so for 5 years now, and he's not been tested from 50+ routinely which will be a big test in the NFL. Matsuzawa has the leg, and he's shown elite accuracy, but also kicking in the NFL comes with it's own challenges. The Raiders have seen their ability, and confidence, to hit field goals dip the last two seasons which has impacted not just their scores, record, but also playcalling. Las Vegas needs to be consistent at kicker to help ease pressure on the offense, and open up Klint Kubiak's playbook.
Dareke Young comes to Las Vegas following Klint Kubiak, and there's a plethora of jobs for him to take on in Las Vegas. The 6'2, 230 receiver has just 72 receiving yards in his career, but he may have a chance to take the "X" role for Klint Kubiak if he can stay consistent which has a chance to lead to 400-600 yards. Additionally, Young's best impact comes on special teams. He's been a proven gunner with a career 24 tackles and 3 FF including 2 FR, and 4 tackles in the playoffs. Young can provide as a kick

TAROUBA, Trinidad (AP) — Pakistan's top-order crumbled against West Indies fast bowlers in pursuit of a challenging target of 211 on a tricky pitch in the first test on Tuesday.
Jayden Seales bowled two consecutive wicket maiden overs to leave Pakistan stuttering at 28-3 at lunch on a Day 4 wicket that has plenty of variable bounce to trouble the batters.
Captain Babar Azam was unbeaten on 16 after Pakistan suffered a blow when first innings century-maker Shan Masood couldn't bat at his usual No. 3 position due to a finger injury while batting on the third day.
The team management said Masood will bat, if required.
Earlier, Mohammad Abbas bagged 5-22 — his seventh five-wicket haul in test cricket — but West Indies tailenders swelled the lead past the 200-run mark before it got bowled out for 181.

#indies #Pakistan #test

LOS ANGELES -- The Tampa Bay Buccaneers could be on the verge of losing another cornerstone player after star defensive tackle Vita Vea officially requested a trade, creating one of the biggest storylines of the NFL offseason and immediately sparking speculation that the two-time Pro Bowler could be headed back to the West Coast.
Vea, 31, is seeking a new long-term contract after negotiations with the Buccaneers stalled. His agent confirmed the trade request just before veterans were scheduled to report for training camp. Although Vea is expected to report to camp, his future in Tampa Bay has become increasingly uncertain as he enters the final season of his current contract, which carries a non-guaranteed base salary for 2026.
The request comes during a period of significant change for the Buccaneers. Tampa Bay has already seen longtime linebacker Lavonte David retire while franchise icon Mike Evans departed in free agency to sign with the San Francisco 49ers, leaving the organization facing one of its biggest roster transitions in years.
One of the league's most dominant interior defensive linemen since entering the NFL as the 12th overall pick in the 2018 draft, Vea has been the anchor of Tampa Bay's run defense and helped lead the franchise to a Super Bowl LV championship. Over eight seasons, he has totaled 256 tackles and 35 sacks while earning two Pro Bowl selections. Last season, he started all 17 games, recording 34 tackles, 4.5 sacks and 13 quarterback hits.
With Vea now on the trade market, oddsmakers at BetOnline Sports & Casino believe Southern California is the most likely destination.

#contract

New Delhi: On March 27 this year, Saransh Jain posted photos and videos on Instagram, thanking former India off-spinner Harbhajan Singh for the valuable lessons he learnt during a five-day camp at the BCCI Centre of Excellence (CoE) in Bengaluru.

In the caption, Saransh mentioned a line Harbhajan Singh told him that touched him the most. It read: "Kuch paane ke liye kuch khona nahi, kuch karna padta hai (To achieve something, you don't have to lose something, you have to do something)." Saransh further wrote: "These aren't just words. They were deeply felt and will stay with me."
Now, months later, the 33-year-old has earned his maiden India call-up.

"He is a very humble guy who knows exactly what he needs to do. I wish him all the very best because this is a special moment for him, his family and everyone who has supported him," Harbhajan told TimesofIndia.com in an exclusive interview.

Saransh, who has played extensive First-Class cricket and has been a regular for Madhya Pradesh, impressed the selectors with his consistency during the domestic grind and was recently rewarded with an India A call-up. In his outing for India A against Sri Lanka A, Saransh picked up seven wickets in the two unofficial Tests. In the second match, he claimed six wickets and scored an unbeaten 70 in the first innings, paving the way for India's 10-wicket victory.
"He has worked incredibly hard and spent many years in domestic cricket, which, in many ways, is tougher than people realise. Bowling long spells of 40 or 50 overs across a match teaches you a lot. The more you bowl, the more you learn," says Harbhajan, while lauding Saransh's domestic grind.

Washington Sundar's injury opened the door for Saransh. With Ravindra Jadeja, Manav Suthar and Kuldeep Yadav in the squad, Saransh is the fourth spinner but the lone off-spinner. If he goes on to make his debut, Saransh will become the first India player to debut after the age of 33 since Robin Singh in 1998.

"At 33, he is still young for a spinner, but he now has the experience of bowling to some of the best players of spin in domestic cricket. I am grateful that I got the opportunity to spend four or five days with him," says Harbhajan, backing Saransh to do well.
Over the years, Saransh's flight, dip and high-arm action have proved difficult for batters to pick. Those are exactly the attributes that caught Harbhajan Singh's attention during the specialist camp for off-spinners at the CoE.

"The first thing I noticed was his action. He has a very good action and keeps things simple. He isn't trying too many fancy variations. He has a lot of experience, an excellent seam position and tremendous control. Those qualities make a big difference," says Harbhajan.

"Experience teaches you to trust your strengths and bowl the right line and length consistently. What impressed me the most was his attitude. His mindset is always about taking wickets. Today, many bowlers are focused on simply getting thr

What does life look like for the New Orleans Saints without Demario Davis? The veteran linebacker ****** erted himself as one of the best players at his position, aging like fine wine into the 2020s. He's the headlining member of our All-NFC South Team of the 2020s at linebacker, but he isn't alone. At the same time Davis was taking point for the Saints, Lavonte David was doing the same with the Tampa Bay Buccaneers. Now both teams must move on without their longtime leaders. Here's a look at both of them and other linebackers in the division who might take up their mantle.
One key stat we're relying on is Approximate Value from Pro Football Reference, which PFR defines as "an attempt to put a single number on the seasonal value of a player at any position from any year." In practice, that means giving higher numbers to player who start more games, play more snaps, and do more to help their team win by racking up yards, scoring touchdowns, creating turnovers and sacking quarterbacks, and so on. We're also ****** igning point values to being named a first-team All-Pro (ten points), second-team All-Pro (five points), and Pro Bowler (three points). And then we're adding those numbers together. Remember, these are all-decade teams for the NFC South, which didn't exist until 2002, and only contributions on the four teams in the division factor into our formula. So Drew Brees earning a Pro Bowl nod with the San Diego Chargers in 2005 doesn't help him, for example.
Team: New Orleans Saints (2020 to 20205)
AV: 76
Awards: All-Pro second team (4), Pro Bowler (2)

#we 're #south #bowler #value

Justin Greaves etched his name into Test cricket history with a sensational spell against Pakistan, becoming the first bowler in recorded Test history to deliver five consecutive wicket-maidens during the opening Test in Tarouba, Trinidad.

The West Indies all-rounder produced a devastating burst on Day 3 at the Brian Lara Cricket Academy, turning the match on its head after Pakistan appeared well placed in their first innings. Greaves finished with career-best figures of 5/27 from 11 overs, with all five wickets coming in five successive maiden overs without conceding a single run. It was also the 31-year-old's maiden five-wicket haul in Test cricket.

Pakistan resumed the day trailing West Indies' first-innings total of 311 and looked to be building a strong reply through Shan Masood and Salman Agha. The pair safely negotiated the opening hour before Shamar Joseph broke the stand by bowling Agha.

What followed was one of the most remarkable spells in recent Test history.

Greaves dismissed centurion Shan Masood for 109 when the Pakistan batter chopped the ball back onto his stumps. He then removed Aamer Jamal with a delivery that jagged back sharply before trapping Ali Usman leg-before for a duck in the very next over.

Pakistan's hopes rested on Mohammad Rizwan, but Greaves forced the wicketkeeper-batter into flashing at a wide delivery, resulting in an edge behind. In the first over after lunch, he completed his five-wicket haul when Mohammad Abbas poked outside off stump and was caught behind.

The astonishing burst triggered a dramatic collapse, with Pakistan losing five wickets for just 15 runs before eventually being bowled out for 282, handing West Indies a first-innings lead of 29.

Greaves' feat surpassed the previous record of four consecutive wicket-maidens, achieved by former England fast bowler Stuart Broad against South Africa in Johannesburg in January 2016.

The spell not only marked Greaves' maiden Test five-for but also ensured his name entered the record books with an achievement never before seen in available Test records.

#greaves

The NFL received a huge shakeup following a superstar defender's decision to request a trade from the Tampa Bay Buccaneers. And the Pittsburgh Steelers would be wise to pay close attention.
According to ESPN's Adam Schefter, Buccaneers Pro Bowl defensive lineman Vita Vea has requested a trade out of Tampa Bay following failed contract negotiations. And considering the fact that the Steelers have prioritized upgrading their defensive line in recent offseasons, a trade for Vea could finally complete the process.
Vea, who was drafted by the Buccaneers in the first round of the 2018 NFL Draft, has spent the past eight seasons in Tampa Bay, recording 35 sacks and 256 combined tackles while cementing his place as one of the league's best run defenders.
A two-time Pro Bowler whose versatility allows him to impact the game as a nose tackle and defensive tackle, Vea could be the final piece of an otherwise Super Bowl-ready roster in Pittsburgh.
For up-to-date Steelers coverage, including any offseason moves, follow us on X TheSteelersWire and give our Facebook page a like.

#tampa #buccaneers #steelers #bowl

Chennai: As India look to usher in a new generation of fast bowlers, Australian great Glenn McGrath believes Prasidh Krishna has all the ingredients to become Jasprit ****** rah's long-term pace partner.

The legendary fast bowler, who is the director of coaching at the MRF Pace Foundation, has closely followed Prasidh's rise and feels the tall Karnataka seamer has transformed his potential into performances.

"I'm a big fan of Prasidh," McGrath said. "If he gets his length right, he's got everything going for him."

"He has really matured. He's tall, bowls in good areas, generates bounce and has genuine pace. Occasionally he's a little short, but apart from that, I think he's the whole package. He's really developed and put his potential into performance," he said.

India have handed opportunities to several young quicks during the recent tours of the UK and Zimbabwe as they prepare for a demanding cycle of white-ball cricket, with the ODI and T20 World Cups to be played in South Africa and Australia-New Zealand respectively. It means India will need a strong pace attack firing on all cylinders, and McGrath believes the transition phase they are going through will not be easy.

"You've got ****** rah, who's a class bowler, and Mohammed Shami, who's world-class as well. Mohammed Siraj has been around for a long time too. You can't just expect to pick up straight where you left off. It's always going to be a transitional period," he said, referring to the Australian team, which will also go through a similar phase.

"Other than Pat ****** mins, Josh Hazlewood and Mitchell Starc, hardly anybody gets a chance... So it's not going to be easy for Australia either."

McGrath also pointed out that ****** rah's unconventional action demands careful workload management.

"The way he powers through those last few steps probably puts more stress on his body than most bowlers. It'll be interesting to see how he manages himself," McGrath said.

While India appear keen to fast-track younger bowlers, McGrath insisted experienced pacers still have an important role to play.

"It's always good to have experience there. Young bowlers learn by playing alongside senior guys. I was fortunate to watch Craig McDermott and Merv Hughes. That's where you really learn. I'd always pick an experienced team over a potential team," he said.

On whether veterans such as Shami or Bhuvneshwar ****** ar could still mount a comeback, McGrath said the decision rested on their bodies, motivation and the selectors.

"If they're prepared to put the work in and their body allows it, then why not? As fast bowlers get older, the work only gets tougher. Ultimately, it's up to them and the selectors."

McGrath also called for a rethink in the way fast bowlers are rehabilitated after injuries, arguing that modern systems often "wrap bowlers in cotton wool" instead of making them physically stronger.
132677427
"The best way is to get stronger. Even when you're in

The Brandon Aiyuk saga has gone on for far too long. A contract dispute that eventually landed in his favor hasn't gone swimmingly for the San Francisco 49ers. Tearing his ACL and MCL just seven games into that deal, he hasn't been around the franchise since.
Last year, they placed him on the PUP list. From there, they voided his guaranteed money for 2026 and added him to the reserve/left squad list. Since then, it's been all downhill for the former first-round pick who remains employed with the team.
While he remained quiet for most of his time away from the 49ers, that trend has changed in recent months. Making multiple videos on social media, Aiyuk has gone on lengthy tirades against the organization.
Calling out everyone, from the coaching staff to the general manager, the former All-Pro selection has left no stone unturned. But while he has made his desire to play for the Washington Commanders abundantly clear, it hasn't led to major changes.
Mike Florio of NBC Sports, though, believes the way forward for Aiyuk is relatively simple. On the latest "Pro Football Talk" alongside co-host Chris Simms, he expressed his frustration over the choices the former Pro Bowler was making.

#aiyuk #brandon #francisco

Abhishek Sharma's struggles in T20Is have come under renewed focus following another disappointing series against Zimbabwe, with former India captain Krishnamachari Srikkanth calling on the selectors to make a difficult decision if the opener's poor run continues.

The left-handed batter endured a forgettable three-match series, failing to register a double-digit score. His recent numbers have also become a concern, with Abhishek unable to cross 20 in each of his last six T20I innings. Since India's T20 World Cup triumph, he has managed just one half-century, putting his place in the side under the scanner as competition for the opening spot continues to grow.

The debate has intensified further after Sanju Samson, India's Player of the Tournament during the T20 World Cup-winning campaign, was left out of the Zimbabwe series despite his impressive performances. With several opening options available, Abhishek's extended lean spell has only added to the pressure on the ICC's former top-ranked T20I batter.

Reacting to the opener's dip in form, Srikkanth said rival teams have worked out a way to contain Abhishek and believes the selection panel may soon have to make a bold call. He also expressed confidence that Samson would return to the Indian setup.

"Abhishek Sharma has been sorted out (by opponents) in international cricket, right from the World Cup. I think a tough call has to be taken against him now. I feel Sanju will get his chance again now. He will receive a call back 100%. The selectors will have to take a tough call," he said in a video on his YouTube channel.

While Abhishek's form emerged as a talking point, India also found plenty to celebrate through the return of Mayank Yadav. The fast bowler made his comeback after a lengthy injury break, featuring in his first international match since October 2024.

Mayank made an immediate impact by claiming two wickets in the opening T20I before ending the series with a three-wicket haul in the final game. Bowling with genuine pace throughout the tour, he consistently troubled Zimbabwe's batting line-up and looked close to his best.

Srikkanth was delighted to see the pacer complete all three matches without any fitness concerns and urged the team management to continue investing in young talent.
132677455
"It was good to see Mayank Yadav playing all three games. So happy for him. Look at how consistent this boy was. The Indian future is very good. You have to back the right youngsters. I don't mind Ashok Sharma either," he said.

#three #World

MINNEAPOLIS (AP) — Three-time Pro Bowler Jamal Adams says he's joining the Minnesota Vikings on the eve of training camp.
Adams announced the move on social media Monday night, posting "Year 10" and the Vikings' "skol" hashtag.
Adams has played multiple positions during his nine-year NFL career, including 17 games at linebacker with the Las Vegas Raiders last season.
Adams was the seventh overall pick of the 2017 NFL draft by the Jets and twice was a Pro Bowler in New York. He was a first-team All-Pro safety in 2019 went to the Pro Bowl again in 2020 with Seattle before struggling with injuries.
Adams played a combined five games with Detroit and Tennessee in 2024.

#jamal #minnesota

Aaron Donald was spotted at the Los Angeles Rams' facilities on Friday. Getty
Aaron Donald continues to be a target for the Los Angeles Rams, who are already set up well. Getty
Former Los Angeles Rams star Aaron Donald visits on the field before a game against the Miami Dolphins. Getty
The Los Angeles Rams, and specifically head coach Sean McVay, continue to roll the red carpet out for Aaron Donald, but one former NFL Pro Bowler believes that could disrupt the situation for newly-acquired star Myles Garrett.
That Donald's potential fit alongside Garrett will be good has been viewed as a given. Another Pro Bowler believes the Rams legend's interest in a return is reason enough to do it.

#donald #garrett #former #believes

Vita Vea's trade request should put the San Francisco 49ers on the phone with the Tampa Bay Buccaneers.
NFL Network reported that Vea asked to be moved after extension talks stalled. The two-time Pro Bowler is entering the final year of his contract with a $17 million base salary, giving San Francisco a rare chance to address one of its most uncertain position groups with a proven difference-maker.
The 49ers may also fit Vea's preferred destination. Football **** yst Ted Nguyen reported on X, citing a source, that Vea "wants to go to a California team or the Raiders." A return to the Bay Area would carry obvious appeal for Vea, who attended Milpitas High School before becoming the No. 12 pick in the 2018 NFL Draft.
Vita Vea could give the 49ers needed durability and interior pressure while forming a dominant front with Nick Bosa and Osa Odighizuwa. Getty Images
The strongest argument for pursuing him is also the simplest: Vea nearly matched the entire 49ers interior defensive line's pressure production by himself last season.

#tampa

After the bruising their T20 side endured on the UK tour, this Zimbabwe series could be just the ideal fillip India needed.
Having finally recorded their maiden win under new T20 captain Shreyas Iyer after seven winless matches at the helm, India will look to secure an unassailable 2-0 lead when they take on Zimbabwe in the second T20I at the Harare Sports Club on Saturday.
Following a difficult run that saw them whitewashed by Ireland (0-2) and England (0-4), India's convincing sevenwicket victory in the seriesopener has restored some much-needed confidence.
Yet, even as the visitors look to build on that momentum, one player who will be under the scanner is explosive opener Abhishek Sharma.
Two years ago, Harare was the venue where Abhishek announced himself on the international stage with a breathtaking maiden T20I hundred in only his second game.
The stylish left-hander returns to the same ground searching for a spark after a worrying dip in form. Having begun the England series promisingly with scores of 59 and 43, Abhishek's returns thereafter have read 10, 16, 3 and 1. In Thursday's opener, his uncomfortable eight-ball 1 suggested a batter short on rhythm and confidence.
With competition for places intensifying, Abhishek knows he needs runs. Senior opener Sanju Samson, though absent on this tour, remains in the selectors' plans and has been named in India's squad for the Asian Games later this year. A substantial score in Harare would not only help India seal the series but also strengthen Abhishek's own case in a rapidly evolving T20 setup.
India, though, found a new hero in the opening match.
Teenage sensation Vaibhav Sooryavanshi smashed a stunning 18-ball fifty, becoming the youngest player to score a T20I half-century.
The 15-year-old, who had endured a difficult England tour where pacy bowlers like Jofra Archer tested him relentlessly with short-pitched bowling, responded in style against Zimbabwe.
Taking on Richard Ngarava and Blessing Muzarabani fearlessly, he produced a blistering innings that underlined why he is so highly rated.
Supported by Ishan Kishan's brisk 35 and an unbeaten 28 from skipper Iyer, Sooryavanshi ensured India chased down the target with more than six overs to spare.
Head coach VVS Laxman would have been equally pleased by the performance of India's revamped pace attack. The biggest positive was the return of Mayank Yadav, who made an impressive comeback after two injury-ravaged years. The Delhi quick finished with figures of 2 for 18 and consistently touched high speeds, with his opening delivery to Brian Bennett at 150 kmph indidcating that his pace remains intact.
Prince Yadav also showed signs of improvement after a lean England tour, while debutant Ashok Sharma displayed enough promise to suggest he could become another exciting fast-bowling option.

#zimbabwe #harare #iyer

Mayank Yadav's return to international cricket could hardly have gone better, and former India spinner Ravichandran Ashwin believes the young fast bowler deserves patience after overcoming a difficult spell with injuries.

Playing his first international match since October 2024, Mayank announced his comeback in style during the opening T20I against Zimbabwe in Harare. The speedster was named Player of the Match after producing a match-winning spell that began with a wicket off the very first ball of the contest.

Mayank removed Brian Bennett for a duck with a hard-length delivery that straightened after pitching, forcing an outside edge that was safely taken behind the stumps. He continued to test Zimbabwe's batters with his pace and discipline, dismissing Dion Myers during the powerplay to leave the hosts under immediate pressure. His spell laid the platform for India's commanding bowling display.

The performance marked a significant moment in the pacer's career after an injury-plagued period stalled his rapid rise. Initially fast-tracked into the Indian side as part of the team's long-term plans for the 2026 T20 World Cup, Mayank spent the past two years battling recurring fitness issues that repeatedly interrupted his progress.

Speaking on 'Ash ki Baat', Ashwin reflected on the challenges of returning from multiple injuries and urged fans to avoid judging players too quickly.

"It is not easy to go through a stress fracture at a young age. We often see and think, why is he always retained? He is always injured. We easily tell this. No player plays to get injured. Injury can be very painful. It is not just physical but also a mental barrier, especially if you are injured twice. It is not easy on the body. If it resurfaces, it plays on your mind. Mayank Yadav has a lot of time and is exceptionally talented. I want him to play more," he said on 'Ash ki Baat'.

Ashwin also acknowledged India's convincing start to the series and congratulated new T20I captain Shreyas Iyer on securing his maiden victory as skipper.

"Congratulations to Shreyas for the first win. He would have been searching for it. There is not a lot to see when you restrict Zimbabwe to 120-odd. Mayank, Prince, and Ashok all got an opportunity," he said.

Mayank's impressive return has not only revived India's pace options but also reinforced why he continues to be viewed as one of the country's most exciting fast-bowling prospects when fully fit.

#ashwin #first #baat

It's another busy day at the Commonwealth Games in Glasgow for Team Northern Ireland athletes.
It's an early start for bowler Gary Kelly, who faces Liam Hill from Tonga in the men's single sectional play at the SEC Centre at 08:30 BST as he aims to make it three wins from three.
Shauna O'Neill and Chloe Wilson will get under way at 17:50 when they take part in the women's pairs selection play against Isle of Man as they also aim for their third victory.
Kelly's final session of the day is at 19:15 as he takes on Singapore in the men's singles.
At the Tollcross Swimming Centre, it is a second morning full of heats from 10:30.

#commonwealth #glasgow

NEW DELHI: India's stand-in bowling coach Sunil Joshi has urged everyone to keep the spotlight firmly on Vaibhav Sooryavanshi's batting, lavishing praise on the teenage sensation after his record-breaking knock in the opening T20I against Zimbabwe while revealing that the youngster's bowling will be developed gradually at the BCCI Centre of Excellence (CoE).

Sooryavanshi lit up the Harare Sports Club with a breathtaking 18-ball half-century, becoming the youngest player to score a T20I fifty. His whirlwind innings, featuring four fours and four sixes, turned India's chase of 126 into a one-sided affair as the reigning T20 World Cup champions sealed victory with 40 ****** to spare and took a 1-0 lead in the three-match series.

Ahead of the second T20I, Joshi said the teenager's explosive batting should remain the primary focus.

"I think the first thing is, let's focus on his batting. He's been sensational and I'm glad that he has done well. This is a happy hunting ground for him. He performed well in the U19 World Cup finals here. He had a good performance yesterday as well," Joshi told reporters.

The former India spinner also disclosed that Sooryavanshi's bowling is part of the long-term plan.

"Vaibhav has been very comfortable with his batting. Whenever we get time in his bowling, I'll work with him in the CoE. Whenever we see him bowling well, we'll definitely and quickly focus on that," he said.
Joshi also called for patience with emerging seam-bowling all-rounder Suryansh Shedge, who has drawn comparisons with established stars such as Hardik Pandya and Shivam Dube.

The stand-in bowling coach insisted every player has their own journey and warned against making premature comparisons.

"Look, we shouldn't compare. Suryansh is making his place in the Indian team. Hardik has made his place. Shivam has also made his place. So, he's a rising talent. We have to persist with him. He's working on good things and good areas. That's what we want in the T20 format," he said.

Joshi also highlighted the bowling depth available in India's squad, pointing to top-order batters Abhishek Sharma and Tilak Varma, who can also contribute with the ball.

"I think all three are good bowlers and all-rounders, although Abhishek Sharma has improved a lot. The coaches always want him to improve every time for the better. We also have Tilak Varma with us. He's another optional bowler. We have conversations with him about not giving too many runs, bowling more dot ****** , and focusing on the basics," he further added.
Joshi also praised leg-spinner Ravi Bishnoi, revealing that a minor adjustment to his run-up helped him bounce back after a difficult outing against England earlier this month.

Bishnoi endured a forgettable spell of 0/60 in Manchester, where England batter Jacob Bethell smashed 29 runs in a single over. However, the leg-spinner responded impressively in Harare with figures of 1/24 from four overs.

According to Joshi, t

Tony Romo takes his golf seriously. The former Dallas Cowboy and current CBS color commentator has made a serious run at PGA Tour qualification in the past. He's even got his own official profile on the organization's site.
That hasn't yet led to a change in profession, but his love for the game is clear. It's what led him back to his home state to compete for a state ***** le on the links. That's how, in the middle of the 125th Wisconsin Amateur Championship, Romo -- who played high school golf in his hometown of Burlington along with football and basketball -- walked off the course in a tie for 74th place, then wound up working on snaps and dropbacks with a young fan at West Bend Country Club.
Those pictures, courtesy of Milwaukee Journal-Sentinel reporter Jim Owczarski, show the former Pro Bowler in a candid moment of sharing his love of football at a moment where he could have leaned into his frustration with golf. Romo didn't publicize his trip back to Wisconsin. You won't find it on his social media pages. But even after a frustrating day carding a nine-over 80 -- his worst in three rounds -- he still found some joy and made one young golfer's summer by giving him some pre-snap tips.
This article originally appeared on For The Win: Tony Romo surprises young fan at Wisconsin Amateur

#romo #former #made #even

Scottish bowler Jason Banks is fond of the Alishan Tandoori in Glasgow. But he knows it is best to avoid it this week.
Why? Because Pakistan's Mohammed 'Chico' Qureshi - who Banks will face in the Commonwealth Games men's singles on Friday - runs the restaurant.
While Banks was the first Team Scotland athlete to compete at these Games - as he defeated Robert Simpson of Jamaica in straight-sets - you would be forgiven for thinking otherwise, as the well-supported Qureshi took to the portable rink at the SEC Centre in the session prior.
Pakistan was the name on the back of his shirt, but the 67-year-old restaurateur - who competed at the 2014 Games - has called Glasgow home for over 50 years.
Is 2026 the Commonwealth Games' last dance or a future-proofing revamp?

#games #commonwealth #jason

India speedster Mayank Yadav opens up on 'toughest phase' after 2/18 comeback spell vs Zimbabwe originally appeared on Cricket News. Add Cricket News as a Preferred Source by clicking here.
Mayank Yadav calls a two-year injury layoff the toughest phase of his career.
Speedster returns with a Player of the Match spell, figures of 2/18.
Father completes Govardhan Parikrama unaware of son's comeback heroics.
Fast bowler Mayank Yadav has opened up about the two-year, injury-forced layoff that kept him away from the India setup, calling it the hardest stretch of his career so far and admitting the constant setbacks weighed heavily on him during years that should have shaped his early rise.

#comeback

NEW DELHI: India fast bowler Ashok Sharma described his international debut as a "dream come true" after receiving his maiden India cap ahead of the opening T20I against Zimbabwe in Harare on Thursday, dedicating the emotional milestone to his elder brother whose sacrifice helped shape his cricketing journey.

The 24-year-old Rajasthan pacer was handed his India cap by bowling coach Sunil Joshi before the toss, capping a remarkable rise from domestic cricket to the international stage. Although Ashok finished with figures of 0/29 in four overs, India secured a comfortable seven-wicket victory to take a 1-0 lead in the three-match series.

Overcome with emotion after the cap presentation, Ashok reflected on years of hard work finally paying off.

"It's very special. The thing for which I was working hard, hopefully today it's fulfilled. It's a dream. Till now it's a dream, sir, whatever it was. Even now it's a dream that I wore the cap of India, and my dream has come true," he said.

The young pacer then revealed the person he wanted to honour the most.

"I dedicate this moment to my elder brother," he added.
Ashok's story is one of perseverance and family sacrifice.

Growing up in Rampura, a small village near Jaipur, he shared a passion for cricket with his elder brother, Akshay Sharma, who also played the game. However, financial constraints meant the family could not afford to support both sons in pursuing cricket.

Akshay made the difficult decision to put aside his own ambitions so Ashok could attend inter-district Under-16 trials. That selfless act became the turning point in Ashok's career.

Years later, the youngster who once struggled for opportunities has now become India's newest fast-bowling prospect.
Before presenting the India cap, stand-in head coach VVS Laxman reminded Ashok of the significance of representing the country.

"We know Ashok is going to make his international debut, and we discussed that it's a matter of great honour," he said.

Laxman also acknowledged the effort behind the achievement.

"Representing the country, all your hard work, and all your performances were rewarded by this opportunity," he added.
Ashok's rise has been rapid over the past year.

After finishing as the leading wicket-taker in the 2025-26 Syed Mushtaq Ali Trophy with 22 wickets, he earned an IPL contract with Gujarat ******* ans, where he grabbed headlines by clocking 154.2 kmph — the fastest delivery of IPL 2026.

Earlier in his journey, he almost walked away from cricket before a chance appearance at the Red Bull Speedster competition opened the doors to becoming a Rajasthan Royals net bowler, eventually paving the way for his domestic breakthrough.

Though he went wicketless on debut against Zimbabwe, Ashok consistently hit a lively pace and showcased the attributes that earned him national selection.

#ashok #India #Cricket #hard

Radiance Technologies Independence Bowl officials are celebrating 50 years of competition this year and they're doing it in a big way.
The organization is releasing the top 50 all-time players in I-Bowl history and they're releasing them in five-player increments. The list was voted on by a local panel of media members, including the Shreveport Times, and I-Bowl representatives.
The latest group of Nos. 36-40 on the all-time list include Bossier High/Louisiana Tech standout Weldon Brown and one of the most recognizable names to play in the I-Bowl in Virginia's Tiki Barber.
Numbers 36 through 40 on the Independence Bowl's All-Time Team include:
Barber might be one of the biggest household names on the all-time list, but before turning himself into the 14th greatest New York Giant of all-time, he played in the 1994 I-Bowl against TCU. He had three carries for 18 yards, three receptions for 2 yards and an 18-yard kickoff return. Barber had a highly successful college career for the Cavaliers, as evidenced by his No. 21 jersey being retired by Virginia, his selection to the ACC's 50th Anniversary Team, and his induction into the Virginia Sports Hall of Fame in 2011. Barber was named ACC Player of the Year in 1996 after rushing for 1,360 yards and 14 touchdowns (TDs). Drafted in the second round of the 1997 NFL Draft, he turned himself into the Giants' all-time leading rusher — rushing for 10,449 yards in his career. He was named first-team All-Pro in 2005 when he rushed for 1,860 yards and nine TDs, while also adding 54 receptions for 530 yards. Also a three-time Pro Bowler, Barber was inducted into the Giants Ring of Honor in 2010.

#bowl #yards #virginia

NEW DELHI: India captain Shreyas Iyer reserved special praise for teenage batting prodigy Vaibhav Sooryavanshi after the 15-year-old produced a breathtaking match-winning knock to power India to a seven-wicket victory over Zimbabwe in the opening T20I in Harare on Thursday.

Sooryavanshi smashed 50 off just 19 ***** , bringing up his maiden international half-century in only 18 deliveries as India chased down 126 in just 13.2 overs. The left-hander's explosive innings also saw him become the youngest player in men's international cricket to score a fifty, eclipsing a record previously held by Nepal's Kushal Malla.

Following the emphatic victory, Iyer was full of admiration for the teenager's fearless approach.

"He is fearless, the way he approaches the innings is amazing. He possesses immense confidence when he steps onto the field," Iyer said after registering his first victory as India's T20I captain.
Sooryavanshi's international career had begun quietly earlier this month during India's tour of England, where scores of 14, 13 and 15 saw him dropped for the final T20I as India lost the series.

However, a return to the Harare Sports Club — where he had blasted 175 off just 80 ***** in the Under-19 World Cup final earlier this year — proved to be the perfect stage for the youngster to announce himself.

ALSO READ: Sooryavanshi's emotional 'A' celebration steals hearts after historic world-record fifty - Watch

After taking four deliveries to settle in, Sooryavanshi launched a stunning counterattack. He hammered four boundaries and four towering sixes, dismantling Zimbabwe's bowling attack with a fearless display of strokeplay.

His innings effectively ended the contest inside the Powerplay before Richard Ngarava eventually dismissed him one ball after he reached his half-century.

Ishan Kishan (35) and captain Iyer (28 not out) then completed the chase with ease.
The victory also marked a significant personal milestone for Iyer, who finally tasted success after enduring a difficult start to his tenure as India's T20I captain.

Having lost all seven of his previous matches in charge during tours of Ireland and England, the 31-year-old celebrated his maiden win as skipper in style.

Iyer praised both his bowlers and batters for executing the team's plans perfectly.

"Exceptional. They were tremendous in their execution. Can't be more happier to get my first win," he said.

The captain also explained his decision to bowl first after winning the toss.

"I was anticipating the bounce and there was a decent amount of bounce. Exceptional start given by Mayank. Didn't give them room," he said.

Mayank Yadav set the tone by dismissing Brian Bennett with the very first ball of the match before finishing with two wickets, while Prince Yadav also claimed two scalps as Zimbabwe were restricted to 125 for seven. India then made light work of the chase thanks largely to Sooryavanshi's stunning ***** ault.

#iyer #India #s