hb2k.com – Daily Briefings & General Coverage

From doubt to glory: Tapasya Gahlawat becomes U20 world wrestling champion

Tapasya Gahlawat overcame societal expectations and family tragedy to become the U20 World wrestling champion in Samokov, Bulgaria. Driven by her father's unfulfilled wrestling dreams and inspired by the Phogat sisters, she defeated Japan's defending champion and Norway's Felicitas Domajeva to secure India's first gold.

One-dayers remain an unsolved puzzle for Shafali Verma

Shafali Verma, after leading India to U-19 World Cup glory, faced a setback, getting dropped from the ODI World Cup squad due to inconsistent performances. Despite domestic success and WPL flair, she struggles in ODIs, averaging just 23. Pratika Rawal replaced her, capitalizing on opportunities.

India left-arm spinner Gouher Sultana retires from all forms of cricket

India left-arm spinner Gouher Sultana has announced her retirement from all forms of cricket. She represented India in 50 ODIs and 37 T20Is.

Ankita Dhyani hopes to make late charge for Worlds berth

Ankita Dhyani is eyeing a spot at the World Championships. The long-distance runner has quickly made her mark in the 3000m steeplechase. She currently ranks 38th in the 'Road to Tokyo' standings. Ankita recently broke the 2000m steeplechase national record in Israel. She also won a silver medal at the World University Games in Germany.

Babar Azam hits the nets following Asia Cup, PCB central contract snub - WATCH

Following his exclusion from Pakistan's Asia Cup 2025 squad and demotion in central contracts, Babar Azam is diligently working on his batting skills at the Ghani Institute of Cricket in Lahore. Selectors have omitted both Babar and Mohammad Rizwan from the upcoming tri-series and Asia Cup squad, opting for a team led by Salman Ali Agha.

3 dead, multiple injured, over 100 arrests: Why fan violence continues to sully Latin American football

Latin American football grapples with persistent violence, evident in clashes between Chilean and Argentine club supporters in Buenos Aires. Despite laws and increased security measures like biometric identification and video surveillance, hooliganism persists. Experts attribute the violence to tribalism, frustration, and a lack of exemplary sanctions from governing bodies.

'Reimagined' US Open mixed doubles was a success but Sara Errani-Andrea Vavassori complete 'mission'

The US Open mixed doubles event had many winners - Sara Errani and Andrea Vavassori as champions while carrying the mantle for the doubles specialists. And the USTA in bringing thousands of fans to an otherwise ignored competition. But teething problems cannot be ignored.

Mirabai Chanu shifts scales: Fresh weight class, revamped game plan

Saikhom Mirabai Chanu is strategically adapting her training for the women’s 48kg category after the International Weightlifting Federation's rule changes. Her regimen includes a revised diet, evenly distributed workload, and enhanced recovery methods like massages and ice baths. Chanu aims to excel at the Commonwealth Weightlifting Championship and the 2026 Asian Games.

Asia Cup 2025: Abhishek Sharma gears up for his biggest test yet

Abhishek Sharma earned a spot in India's Asia Cup 2025 squad after a string of explosive T20I performances. Now, the young opener faces his toughest challenge yet — proving himself on the big stage.

Rahul Dravid recalls R Ashwin's YouTube video on batting against spin, jokes about backlash

Former India cricketer and head coach Rahul Dravid recalled Ravichandran Ashwin's YouTube video on playing spin in India from 2023 during the middle of the Border-Gavaskar Trophy against Australia. Ashwin had received backlash for his video after Australia won the third Test in Indore.

India vs Pakistan sporting ties: 5 big questions after new government policy

The India-Pakistan match at the Asia Cup is likely to go ahead following the government's new policy on hosting and competing in sports involving Pakistan. But it raises serious questions: should international sporting credibility come before national interest and security?

Right after Asia Cup squad announcement, BCCI replaces 2 national selectors

BCCI is set to replace two senior national selectors from the men's committee just days after the announcement of India's Asia Cup squad. However, Ajit Agarkar is likely to remain as the chief selector till 2026.

TK Vishal breaks national record in men’s 400m at Inter-State championships

TK Vishal made a stunning impact at the National Inter-State Athletics meet in Chennai, smashing the national record in the men's 400m with a time of 45.12s. Overjoyed Vishal dedicated his achievement to his coach, Jason Dawson, highlighting their strong bond and Jason's instrumental role in his success after transitioning to 400m just a year ago.

'Friendship still very strong': Sachin Tendulkar continues to support Vinod Kambli

Sachin Tendulkar's enduring friendship with Vinod Kambli remains strong, as revealed by Kambli's brother, Virendra. Despite Kambli's recent health struggles, including a brain clot, Tendulkar consistently checks in on him and his wife. Virendra fondly remembers their close bond during Ranji Trophy matches.

Not Wasim Akram, Waqar Younis but this Aussie bowler challenged Rahul Dravid the most

Rahul Dravid, the former Indian cricket legend, has identified Glenn McGrath and Muttiah Muralitharan as the most formidable bowlers he encountered throughout his illustrious 16-year international career. Dravid admired McGrath's relentless consistency and ability to challenge his off stump, while he acknowledged Muralitharan's exceptional spin variations and tireless approach as a spinner.

Asia Cup | 'He backs players he likes': Gautam Gambhir questioned over Shreyas Iyer snub

Sadagoppan Ramesh has ignited controversy by alleging that Gautam Gambhir didn't support Shreyas Iyer's Asia Cup inclusion, despite Iyer's stellar form, including a strong IPL and Syed Mushtaq Ali Trophy performance. Ramesh also questioned the praise surrounding India's drawn Test series in England and highlighted Iyer's pivotal role in the Champions Trophy victory, where he was India's top scorer.

Asia Cup 2025: Sanju Samson drops major hint on where he will bat for India

Sanju Samson is set to embrace a new role in the Asia Cup 2025, with Shubman Gill's return potentially shifting Samson down the batting order. Likely to bat at number five or six, Samson demonstrated his adaptability by moving down the order in a recent Kerala Cricket League match.

Rinku Singh finds form before Asia Cup, hits rapid hundred in UP T20 League

Rinku Singh played a stunning unbeaten century to help Meerut Mavericks chase 168 runs in the UP T20 League. His heroic innings comes amid pressure over his Asia Cup selection and recent poor form.

'It's time to ... ': Dhanashree Verma breaks silence on Yuzvendra Chahal divorce, shares cryptic note

Indian cricketer Yuzvendra Chahal and Dhanashree Verma's marriage has officially ended, finalized on March 20, 2025, following an 18-month separation. A settlement of Rs 4.75 crore was reportedly paid by Chahal as alimony. Dhanashree, hinting at a fresh start, emphasized the importance of privacy and suggested she might share her perspective in the future, addressing speculation surrounding their relationship.

'You never know': Aussie all-rounder comeback could reshape Australia’s Ashes plans

Cameron Green aims to bowl again before the Ashes, potentially returning in the Sheffield Shield after back surgery sidelined him last year. While he's contributed with the bat, Green believes his bowling will significantly boost Australia against England.