New Zealand on January 26 revealed a strong 14-member squad for the upcoming Test series against South Africa. On the back of a decent display from spinners and breathtaking batting from Yashasvi Jaiswal, India put England on the backfoot on Day 1 of the 1st Test in Hyderabad. Rohan Bopanna and six other Indian athletes are set to be bestowed with the prestigious Padma Shri.
Let's have a look at the top 10 trending sports news on January 26's sports roundup:
Kane Williamson headlines New Zealand's 14-member squad for South Africa Tests
New Zealand announced a formidable 14-member squad for the upcoming Test series against South Africa. The series, commencing on February 4, will feature two Test matches. The South African side, led by captain Neil Brand, has introduced seven uncapped players in their 14-member squad, adding an element of inexperience to their lineup.
New Zealand squad for South Africa Tests: Tim Southee, Tom Blundell, Devon Conway, Matt Henry, Kyle Jamieson, Tom Latham, Daryl Mitchell, Will O'Rourke (second Test only), Glenn Phillips, Rachin Ravindra, Mitch Santner, Neil Wagner, Kane Williamson, Will Young
Yashasvi Jasiwal, spinners help India gain early advantage in 1st Test
Following a rigorous examination by spinners that left England's batters facing a tough challenge, India's young sensation Yashasvi Jaiswal showcased his unique brand of 'Bazball,' crafting an impressive fifty as India dominated day one of the opening Test on Thursday. Closing the day at 119/1, India seized the advantage.
Jaiswal, remaining unbeaten at 76 runs from 70 balls, demonstrated his batting prowess with nine boundaries and three sixes. At the other end, Shubman Gill, with a score of 14 not out, partnered with Jaiswal as India trailed England's modest first innings total of 246 runs by 127 runs.
West Indies show fight as Joshua Da Silva and Kavem Hodge frustrate Australia
On January 25, Joshua Da Silva and Kavem Hodge steered West Indies to a total of 266/8 against Australia, showcasing resilient half-centuries on the opening day of the day-night Test at the Gabba. The duo of Da Silva, who scored 79 runs, and Hodge, contributing 71 runs, established a commendable 149-run partnership that spanned nearly two sessions. This partnership created an uncommon scenario of frustration for the Australians, who had previously enjoyed a dominant home season, including a 3-0 whitewash against Pakistan and a 10-wicket victory in the first Test against West Indies at Adelaide.
Rashid Khan opts out of upcoming PSL
Lahore Qalandars, led by Shaheen Afridi, have suffered a significant setback ahead of the Pakistan Super League (PSL) 2024 as Afghanistan all-rounder Rashid Khan has opted to withdraw from the upcoming edition. Rashid has taken this precautionary step due to ongoing concerns about his fitness, as he is still in the process of recovering from a recent back surgery.
Zimbabwe Cricket takes stringent action against 3 players for using recreational drug
Zimbabwe Cricket has imposed a four-month ban on national team cricketers Wesley Madhevere and Brandon Mavuta for engaging in recreational drug use. The sanctions were issued on January 25 following the cricketers' admission of drug use during a disciplinary hearing held on January 17. The duo had tested positive for a prohibited recreational drug in an internal doping test conducted in December. In addition to the suspension, Madhevere and Mavuta will be subjected to a fine equivalent to 50 percent of their salaries for a period of three months, effective from January 2024.
India thrash Ireland, qualify for Super Six stage of U-19 World Cup
India secured a convincing 201-run victory over Ireland in the Under-19 World Cup 2024, propelled by Musheer Khan's century and a disciplined bowling performance. The win reaffirms India's dominance in Group A, marking another substantial triumph. Ireland's batting lineup struggled to mount a successful chase, resulting in a significant collapse, and this defeat stands as the second-largest margin of loss for Ireland in the history of the tournament. With this comprehensive victory, India has solidified their place in the Super Six stage of the tournament.
Magnificent Mitchell Starc completes 350 Test wickets
Mitchell Starc, Australia's fast bowler, reached a significant milestone in Test cricket by securing his 350th wicket. He becomes the fifth Australian cricketer to achieve this feat. Starc accomplished this landmark during the Day and Night Test against the West Indies at Brisbane's Gabba Stadium.
Pat Cummins wins ICC Cricketer of the Year, Virat Kohli wins ODI Cricketer of the Year
Australia captain and superstar pacer, Pat Cummins has been honored with the title of ICC Men's Cricketer of the Year for 2023 and received the esteemed Sir Garfield Sobers Trophy. Cummins, who assumed leadership of the Australian team in late 2021, has played a pivotal role in elevating the team to unprecedented heights. On the flip side, former India captain Virat Kohli was bestowed with ODI Cricketer of the Year accolade.
7 Indian athletes shortlisted for prestigious Padma Shri
Rohan Bopanna, Joshna Chinappa, Harbinder Singh, Mallakhmab Uday Deshpande, Purima Mahtao, Gaurav Khanna and Satendra Singh Lohia have been shortlisted for the Padma Shri.
Charles Leclerc extends contract with Ferrari
Ferrari has cemented its future driver lineup by signing Charles Leclerc to a new contract, extending his association with the iconic team beyond the 2024 season. The announcement, disclosed on Thursday, January 25, guarantees that the 26-year-old Monegasque racer will remain a part of the Ferrari team, continuing to sport the renowned red race suit for the foreseeable future.
MORE ON SPORTS TAK:
IND vs ENG: Yashasvi Jaiswal teaches England a lesson in 'Bazball' as India dominate Day 1's proceedings in Hyderabad
Under-19 World Cup: After Musheer Khan's ton, India hand Ireland their 2nd biggest defeat in tournament's history to qualify for Super Six stage
