खेल

MUMBAI: Former India batter Sanjay Manjrekar has criticised the International Cricket Council (ICC) for what he described as lenient disciplinary action against Yashasvi Jaiswal and Vaibhav Suryavanshi following separate incidents involving the young Indian players. Manjrekar expressed his frustration on social media after the ICC sanctioned Jaiswal and Sri Lankan fast bowler Asitha Fernando following an on-field confrontation during the Galle Test. Jaiswal and Fernando were involved in a heated exchange after the Indian batter was dismissed. The situation escalated when the two players moved towards each other and their heads made contact, prompting teammates and officials to intervene before the confrontation could develop further. The ICC found both players guilty of breaching its code of conduct and imposed a fine of 25 per cent of their match fees, along with one demerit point each. Manjrekar questioned whether the punishment was strong enough given the nature of the incident. He argued that the authorities should have taken a firmer position on conduct that could potentially undermine discipline and sportsmanship in international cricket. The former India international also referred to an earlier incident involving 15-year-old Vaibhav Suryavanshi, expressing disappointment that the youngster had received only a 50 per cent match-fee fine. His comments have renewed discussion about whether disciplinary measures in cricket are consistent across players and incidents, particularly when young cricketers are involved. The Jaiswal-Fernando confrontation attracted considerable attention because it occurred during a Test match, where players are expected to maintain discipline despite the intense pressure of international competition. The involvement of teammates in separating the two players prevented the incident from becoming more serious. The ICC’s decision means both Jaiswal and Fernando will carry a demerit point on their disciplinary records, although neither player received a suspension. Manjrekar’s criticism adds to the wider debate over how cricket’s governing bodies should respond to confrontations on the field. While fines are intended to punish misconduct, some former players believe stronger sanctions are necessary when physical contact occurs. The controversy also highlights the challenge faced by cricket authorities in balancing firm discipline with proportionate punishment. For now, the ICC decision stands, but Manjrekar’s comments are likely to keep the debate alive over whether international cricket needs tougher penalties for on-field clashes.

  Amstelveen / Islamabad: Pakistan ended a 16 year wait for a victory in the FIH Men’s Hockey World Cup with a thrilling 4 3 win over Japan in the 9th to 16th place classification match at the Wagener Stadium, giving the Green Shirts a much needed boost after a disappointing campaign in the main round. Pakistan made a difficult start as Japan scored twice in the opening quarter through Hyota Yamada and Kaito Tanaka. The Green Shirts, however, refused to give up and gradually fought their way back into the match. Rana Waheed Ashraf pulled one goal back in the second quarter to reduce Japan’s lead to 2 1 before the interval. Pakistan then produced a remarkable comeback in the third quarter, with Ashraf scoring again before Muhammad Hammadudin put the Green Shirts ahead. Japan quickly responded through Koji Yamasaki to make it 3 3, setting up a tense finish. Pakistan eventually regained the lead through Hannan Shahid, who scored in the 40th minute. Neither side could score again and Pakistan held on for a memorable 4 3 victory. The victory was Pakistan’s first in the Hockey World Cup since the 2010 tournament, when the team defeated Spain 2 1. Pakistan missed the 2014 World Cup and remained without a win in the 2018 edition, making the latest victory an important moment for the country’s struggling national sport. The result also comes at a time when the Pakistan Hockey Federation is seeking to rebuild the sport under the leadership of its ad hoc president, Mohyuddin Ahmad Wani. Wani deserves credit for putting greater emphasis on rebuilding hockey from the grassroots as well as improving the federation’s working structure. Under his leadership, the PHF announced plans to bring around 60,000 to 70,000 youngsters into hockey through cooperation with provincial education boards, with free hockey kits planned for schools and colleges at under 14 and under 16 levels. Wani has also pushed for administrative and professional reforms within the federation. The PHF announced separate Governance Management and Professional Development Committees, bringing together experts in areas including financial management, resource mobilisation, sports development, coaching, sports medicine and the experience of former Olympians. His efforts have focused not only on the senior national team but also on expanding hockey beyond traditional centres. Wani has stressed the importance of regions including Gilgit Baltistan, Azad Kashmir, Balochistan and Sindh and has spoken about developing the game at schools, colleges and universities. The latest victory therefore provides an encouraging result for the rebuilding process, although much more work remains before Pakistan can return to the top level of international hockey. Pakistan had already been eliminated from the title race after losing to England and India and drawing 3 3 with Wales in the opening phase. The team consequently entered the classification round for positions 9 to 16. Despite failing to reach the knockout stage, the fighting spirit shown against Japan will give the players confidence as they continue their World Cup campaign. For a country that has won the Hockey World Cup four times, the 16 year wait for another World Cup victory has been a painful reminder of the decline of Pakistan hockey. The win over Japan does not solve the problems facing the sport, but it provides a welcome sign that the national team can still fight back when under pressure. The real challenge now is to turn this victory into the beginning of a sustained revival. With stronger grassroots programmes, better administration, improved training facilities and continued support for players, Pakistan will hope to rebuild its position among the leading hockey nations of the world.

MACKAY: Mitchell Starc produced a devastating fast-bowling masterclass as Australia stormed back from their first-Test shock to beat Bangladesh by 51 runs in the second Test in Mackay on Sunday, levelling the two-match series. The Australian quick was virtually unstoppable, claiming 10 wickets for 51 runs in the match as Bangladesh’s batting collapsed twice inside two days. His performance transformed the contest after Bangladesh had stunned Australia with a nine-wicket victory in Darwin in the opening Test. Starc finished the second innings with four wickets for 39 runs after destroying Bangladesh’s top order with six for just 12 in their first innings. His match figures of 10-51 marked the fourth time he has taken 10 wickets in a Test, putting him at the heart of Australia’s emphatic response. Bangladesh began their second innings needing 147 runs to make Australia bat again. Instead, they quickly found themselves under intense pressure. Shadman Islam lasted only three deliveries before edging a moving Starc delivery to Marnus Labuschagne. Mominul Haque followed with a second-ball dismissal, losing his off stump without offering a shot and handing Starc a hat-trick chance. Captain Najmul Hossain Shanto survived the hat-trick ball and briefly attempted to steady the innings. He faced 46 deliveries before Nathan Lyon ended his resistance, with Shanto holing out to Starc at long-off for 31. Starc returned to strike again, tempting Litton Das into a loose shot that was caught at third slip without scoring. Pat Cummins then added to Bangladesh’s misery, dismissing Mehidy Hasan Miraz and Hasan Mahmud. Starc completed his 10-wicket haul when Taijul Islam was bowled for seven, while Lyon quickly cleaned up the tail. Earlier, Australia had been bowled out for 210, giving them a 146-run first-innings lead. Cameron Green top-scored with 67, while Nathan Lyon remained unbeaten on 32 after helping Australia cross the 200 mark. Bangladesh’s Shoriful Islam was the standout bowler for the visitors, taking seven wickets for 48 runs — the best figures by a Bangladeshi bowler in an away Test. Australia’s victory completed a dramatic turnaround in the series. Bangladesh had arrived in Mackay full of confidence after their historic win in Darwin, but Starc and Australia’s bowling attack ensured there would be no repeat. The result sets up a fascinating conclusion to the series, with Australia regaining momentum and Bangladesh left to regroup after a dramatic two-day collapse.

LONDON: Pakistan are considering changes to their playing XI for the second Test against England at Lord’s after a heavy defeat in Leeds exposed several weaknesses in the visitors’ lineup. The second Test of the series is scheduled to begin on August 27, with Pakistan’s team management expected to finalise the playing XI after assessing conditions in London. Pakistan suffered a disappointing start to the series, losing the opening Test by an innings and 103 runs. The result has prompted the management to consider adjustments as the team looks to bounce back at the home of cricket. One of the major possibilities is a rest for wicketkeeper-batter Mohammad Rizwan. His potential absence would open the door for another player to take responsibility behind the stumps while allowing the team management to refresh its batting combination. The biggest question, however, surrounds Babar Azam. The former Pakistan captain missed the first Test because of a finger injury, but team management remains hopeful that he will recover in time to return for the Lord’s match. If Babar is declared fit, Azan Awais is reportedly likely to make way. His return would provide Pakistan with considerable experience in the middle order at a crucial stage of the series. Bowling plans could also change according to the conditions at Lord’s. Sources indicate that Pakistan may consider playing two spinners if the pitch and weather point towards a slower, drier contest. The management is also reportedly considering young fast bowler Ubaid Shah because of his extra pace. His ability to generate speed could provide Pakistan with a different attacking option against England’s strong batting lineup. The conditions in London are expected to differ from those encountered in Leeds. Reports suggest a relatively dry and potentially flat surface could be prepared, increasing the possibility of a match in which batting becomes easier as the game progresses. For Pakistan, the Lord’s Test is more than another fixture in the series. After being comprehensively beaten in Leeds, they need a strong response to regain confidence and keep the series alive. England, meanwhile, will enter the match with momentum and will be confident of repeating their dominant performance. Pakistan’s final XI could therefore prove crucial as they attempt to turn the tide at one of cricket’s most historic venues.

LAHORE: Pakistan women’s cricket team spinners Nashra Sandhu and Tuba Hassan have expressed confidence in the side’s preparations for the upcoming Women’s Asia Cup and Asian Games, saying consistency will be the key to turning strong performances into results. Speaking during the team’s training camp in Lahore, Sandhu said the squad was preparing specifically for different opponents while working to improve every aspect of its game. Pakistan’s spinners could have a particularly important role to play in the UAE, where the conditions are expected to suit slow bowling. Sandhu said the team was focused on adapting its plans according to opponents and match situations rather than relying on a single approach. “We prepare according to every opponent,” Sandhu said, stressing the importance of maintaining consistency during crucial moments. The spinner acknowledged that Pakistan have sometimes produced encouraging performances without being able to finish matches strongly. The team, she said, was working to address those lapses and build greater consistency in areas where it has already shown promise. India matches, meanwhile, bring an added level of pressure. Sandhu said players prepare carefully for such contests because the team that handles pressure better on match day often gains the advantage. Tuba Hassan also highlighted the importance of preparing for conditions in Dubai. According to the leg-spinner, Pakistani players are familiar with the UAE environment, but training specifically for those conditions remains essential before the tournament begins. She said the team was concentrating on reducing mistakes, particularly because small errors can have a major impact in T20 cricket. Training sessions are being designed around different match situations, including pressure scenarios, to help players make better decisions when the stakes are high. Tuba also revealed that coach Wahab Riaz has been challenging players with different situations during practice, aiming to prepare them for the demands of international matches. The leg-spinner admitted that Pakistan still face a psychological hurdle when playing against top-ranked sides, despite having competed strongly against leading teams in the past. She argued that more bilateral series against the world’s top four teams would help Pakistan bridge the gap and develop greater confidence. The experience of players competing abroad could also prove valuable. Tuba said Fatima Sana had shared lessons from her stint in The Hundred with teammates, offering the squad insight into playing at a high level overseas. With the Asia Cup and Asian Games ahead, Pakistan’s women’s team will hope that improved preparation, greater consistency and exposure to elite opposition can translate into stronger results. For the spinners, the message is clear: Pakistan have the ability to challenge the best — but now they must learn to finish the job.

GILGIT: A rescue mission to recover the body of Pakistani climber Dr Asma Mushtaq from Spantik Peak was halted on Sunday as heavy snowfall made the treacherous mountain too dangerous for the recovery team. Dr Asma Mushtaq, 34, died on Thursday while descending from the 7,027-metre Spantik, also known as Golden Peak, in Gilgit-Baltistan’s Shigar district. She reportedly suffered from high-altitude sickness after reaching the summit. Her body remains at an altitude of around 6,400 metres near Camp 3. According to the Alpine Club of Pakistan (ACP), a recovery team that left on Saturday reached Camp 2 but was forced to suspend the operation because of worsening weather. The team was advised to return to base camp and wait for a safer weather window. Efforts are also under way to obtain approval for a humanitarian helicopter mission with the support of the Pakistan Army. However, officials said helicopters cannot operate at altitudes above 6,000 metres to retrieve the body. The body must therefore first be brought down by a ground rescue team. ACP General Secretary Ayaz Shigri said a six-member local team was working to transport Dr Asma Mushtaq’s body to base camp, from where an army helicopter could potentially airlift it to Skardu. The recovery operation has also raised questions about the responsibilities of the expedition operator. Baltistan Division Commissioner Kamal Khan said the tour operator had violated mountaineering regulations by failing to arrange the required recovery team and helicopter arrangements. He said operators are responsible for arranging ground rescue and helicopter insurance when required. The official also alleged that mandatory briefing and debriefing procedures under the Mountaineering Rules 1999 had not been followed. However, Mr Khan rejected suggestions that negligence had caused the delay, saying local authorities arranged a recovery team soon after the incident on humanitarian grounds. The ACP stressed that it is Pakistan’s national federation for mountaineering and sport climbing, rather than a dedicated rescue organisation. It said Pakistan still lacks a properly established high-altitude rescue system and called for stronger mountaineering infrastructure. Dr Asma Mushtaq, originally from Lahore, was a UK-based obstetrics and gynaecology doctor and an avid traveller, vlogger and mountaineer. She had documented several expeditions online and had completed the winter ascent of Musa ka Musallah. Meanwhile, bad weather has also halted the recovery of US climber Sarah Mallory Geis from Broad Peak. Her body was recovered by three local porters after she went missing in a deadly avalanche on July 30. It remains at Broad Peak base camp awaiting an army helicopter flight to Skardu. The incidents have once again highlighted the extreme dangers of high-altitude mountaineering — and the urgent need for a reliable rescue system in Pakistan’s towering Karakoram.

BANGKOK: Pakistan secured a significant victory over India at an Asian Cricket Council (ACC) meeting in Bangkok, winning all three seats in the election for ACC directors in a closely fought contest. The meeting, chaired by Pakistan Cricket Board Chairman Mohsin Naqvi, brought Pakistan- and India-backed panels into direct competition for the three director positions. According to sources, the contest remained tight, but the panel supported by Pakistan emerged victorious in all three seats. The result gives Pakistan an important voice within the regional cricket body as the ACC prepares for several major tournaments and administrative decisions. India was represented at the meeting by Rajeev Shukla. The discussions also turned towards next year’s Asia Cup, which is scheduled to be hosted by Bangladesh. Officials considered possible venues for the tournament, with Sylhet, Mirpur and Chattogram among the grounds discussed for staging matches. The final schedule and venue arrangements are expected to be settled through further consultations. The upcoming Asia Cup is likely to attract considerable attention across the cricketing region, particularly because Pakistan and India remain among the tournament’s biggest draws. Their matches traditionally generate huge interest among fans and broadcasters, making venue planning and tournament logistics especially important. The Bangkok meeting also covered financial and administrative matters. The ACC budget was approved, while preparations for the Women’s Asia Cup in Dubai were reviewed. The decisions come as Asian cricket continues to expand its commercial and competitive footprint. With major bilateral and multinational events regularly drawing millions of viewers, the ACC plays a central role in coordinating tournaments, developing the game and managing regional cricketing interests. For Pakistan, the election result represents a notable administrative gain at a time when relations between the two cricket boards remain closely watched. Securing all three director positions backed by its panel strengthens Pakistan’s representation in the ACC and could give it greater influence in future discussions. The Bangladesh-hosted Asia Cup will be one of the key items on the ACC’s calendar next year. While Sylhet, Mirpur and Chattogram have emerged as possible venues, further decisions will be required regarding match allocation, logistics and other tournament arrangements. The latest ACC meeting therefore delivered more than routine administrative decisions for Pakistan. The successful election result, coupled with discussions over the next Asia Cup and women’s tournament, placed Pakistan at the centre of several important developments shaping the future of Asian cricket.

NEW YORK: World No. 1 Jannik Sinner has withdrawn from the US Open after failing to recover fully from a right knee injury, dealing a major blow to the tournament just days before the final Grand Slam of the season. The five-time Grand Slam champion confirmed on Friday that he would not compete at Flushing Meadows despite making every effort to return to competitive tennis. “Even though I have been working hard with my team and my medical staff, we have now had to make the difficult decision that I will not be able to compete at the US Open this year,” Sinner said in a statement. The 24-year-old Italian explained that he had recently returned to court in Monte Carlo with his team but realised that his knee still required additional recovery time. “I’m very sad and disappointed, as New York has a special place in my heart,” Sinner said, adding that he had been eagerly anticipating the tournament and the atmosphere created by its fans. Sinner has not played competitively since lifting the Wimbledon trophy on July 12. His injury had already forced him to withdraw from the US Open preparation events in Cincinnati and Montreal, raising doubts about whether he would be fit enough to defend his position among the tournament favourites. His absence will be particularly significant given his remarkable 2026 campaign. Sinner has recorded 44 victories against just three defeats this season and has collected six titles, including his Wimbledon triumph. The Italian was also expected to arrive in New York with strong motivation after winning the US Open in 2024. However, his title defence will now have to wait. Sinner’s withdrawal also changes the dynamics of a tournament that had been building toward another chapter in his growing rivalry with Carlos Alcaraz. Alcaraz, Sinner’s biggest contemporary rival, announced on Thursday that he would return to competition at the US Open after spending more than four months on the sidelines with a wrist injury. The Spaniard lost last year’s US Open final to Sinner, making his return one of the most anticipated storylines of this year’s tournament. With Sinner now absent, Alcaraz will have an opportunity to strengthen his position in the Grand Slam race. Sinner’s 2026 season has not been without setbacks. At the French Open, he arrived as the overwhelming favourite but suffered a surprise second-round exit while struggling in a severe heatwave. For now, the Italian will remain in Europe and concentrate on rehabilitation. His target is to return for the Asian swing, with tournaments in Beijing and Shanghai among his planned objectives. For the US Open, however, one thing is certain: the defending 2024 champion and current world No. 1 will be watching from afar, leaving the Grand Slam field wide open for a new champion.