3EA Global Strategy Team and FTS Founder mark the launch of an AI-powered behavioral sports fitness platform integrating fitness into daily routines across India
 

While the national media unveiling took place in Mumbai, the company confirmed that the first proof-of-concept operational centre will launch in Lucknow, serving as the behavioural validation hub before phased expansion across major Indian cities.
 

FTS – Fitness Through Sports emerged from strategic consultations at the 3EA Global Lucknow office, where Mr. Aman Dubey, founder of Turf Titans, engaged with the company's research and strategy team to explore scaling beyond a competitive turf model.
 

The research team, led by Mr. Kritagaya Singh, Associate Domain Partner, Ms. Divya Srivastava, Senior Domain Partner and Mr. Avi Agarwal, Growth Analyst, under the strategic supervision of Er. Pranav Bhaskar, National Business Partner, 3EA Global conducted feasibility assessments, developed the three-year business plan, structured the partnership model, and validated demand through a Pan-India behavioural survey involving over 300 individuals.
 

The findings revealed a decisive shift - most participants were not seeking competition — they were seeking fitness in an enjoyable format. This insight reframed sports as a sustainable pathway to health rather than an athletic pursuit.

During the press interaction, journalists raised pointed questions on retention challenges, differentiation from gyms, scalability, and the role of technology.
 

Responding to a question on declining gym adherence, Dr. Vibhor Mishra, CEO, 3EA Global stated, “The biggest challenge in preventive healthcare is not awareness — it is continuity. Fitness today depends heavily on motivation, and motivation is temporary. Behaviour, however, is sustainable. FTS is designed as a behavioural system where participation becomes routine rather than a decision.”
 

He further emphasized that the platform measures consistency over intensity, focusing on habit formation rather than performance metrics.
 

Addressing comparisons with conventional gyms, Mr. Aman Dubey, Founder of FTS explained, “People don’t quit fitness because they don’t value health. They quit because it feels like work. Sports create engagement, accountability, and belonging. When others expect you to show up, you rarely skip.”
 

He clarified that FTS is not a turf aggregation platform nor a pay-per-session sports service. Instead, it operates on a structured subscription-driven participation model, where members follow recurring weekly schedules integrating sports sessions, wellness formats, and community leagues.
 

Dr. Vibhor Mishra elaborated that FTS integrates artificial intelligence to guide participation responsibly.
 

The application profiles users based on lifestyle patterns, body type, medical sensitivities, and fitness objectives. Individuals with cervical spine concerns or specific health conditions receive guided recommendations to ensure suitability. The system tracks habit streaks, participation frequency, and engagement rhythms rather than calorie counts or competition scores.
 

“We designed health to fit into lifestyle — not the other way around,” Dr. Vibhor Mishra quoted.
 

Speaking on the asset-light expansion model, Er. Pranav Bhaskar explained that FTS will operate through structured Facility Partner (FP) agreements across cities. Facilities can range from multi-sport environments offering cricket, football, badminton, and pickleball to specialized single-format centres.
 

Through a unified application, members can access sessions across partner facilities within their city.
 

“Future wellness businesses will be defined by engagement models, not equipment. Retention is behavioural, not infrastructural,” Er. Pranav Bhaskar said.
 

He emphasized that the distributed partnership model allows rapid scaling while maintaining centralised behavioural governance.
 

When asked why operations would begin in Lucknow instead of a metro city, Mr. Aman Dubey clarified, “We chose Lucknow intentionally. It represents aspirational India with realistic lifestyle patterns. Before scaling nationally, we want to validate behavioural adoption in an authentic environment.”
 

The first centre will function as a structured habit-formation laboratory, measuring participation adherence and community engagement before metro expansion.
 

FTS – Fitness Through Sports aims to address broader concerns such as sedentary work culture, stress, lifestyle diseases, and declining community interaction. By embedding structured sports into routine schedules across age groups — youth, working professionals, mid-age individuals, and senior citizens — the platform aspires to create measurable public health and socio-economic impact.
 

Rather than positioning itself as a gym alternative, FTS positions itself as a behavioural shift.

Traditional fitness formats demand discipline.
FTS embeds fitness within enjoyment.
 

As the media interaction concluded, representatives reiterated that FTS – Fitness Through Sports is not merely a single-location venture but a scalable national ecosystem designed to transform how India experiences movement.

Rather than a traditional sponsorship, the collaboration is built around a more connected model — bringing fans closer to the game through real-time moments, interactive experiences, and a new way to engage with cricket as it unfolds.
 

Nicholas Pooran joins Arena365, the home of Next Over predictions
 

Pooran, former West Indies captain and one of the most explosive players in world cricket, is widely recognised for his impact across global T20 competitions.
 

Arena365 is building a cricket-first platform for a global audience — designed around speed, simplicity, and live engagement across every over.
 

From matchday experiences to real-time predictions, the focus is simple: making cricket faster, more immersive, and more connected for fans everywhere.
 

Tom Gant, Chief Marketing Officer at Arena365, said, “Most partnerships in sport are just logos and posts. This isn’t. We’re building something that actually connects fans to the game in real time — faster, simpler, and built around how people experience cricket today. This is a different model, and it’s exactly where the space is going.”
 

Nicholas Pooran added, “Cricket moves fast, and the way fans experience it should match that. Arena365 feels built for the moments that matter — live, simple, and right in the middle of the action. I’m excited to be part of something that’s pushing the game forward.”
 

The partnership signals Arena365’s ambition to become the world’s most recognisable cricket-first platform, bringing a new kind of fan experience to audiences globally. And this is only the beginning of what Arena365 plans to build in cricket.

In a remarkable display of grit, discipline, and sporting excellence, athletes supported by M3M Foundation under its flagship Lakshya Sports Program delivered an outstanding performance at the Kettlebell Sport Haryana State Championship 2026, held at The Shriram Millennium School, Gurgaon.

M3M Foundation Trustee and Chairperson, Dr Payal Kanodia with athletes at Kettlebell Sports Haryana State Championship 2026

Organised by the Kettlebell Sport Haryana Association under the aegis of Kettlebell Sport India Association, the championship witnessed participation across Sub-Junior, Junior, Senior, and Veteran categories, bringing together top kettlebell athletes from across the state.

20 athletes represented M3M Foundation’s iMpower Club, collectively secured an exceptional tally of 30 medals, including 18 Gold, 9 Silver, and 3 Bronze, reaffirming the transformative impact of structured sports training and opportunity on underserved youth.

The championship also marked a historic moment with the participation of Haryana’s first Para Kettlebell Athlete from iMpower Club, reflecting M3M Foundation’s commitment to fostering inclusivity and ensuring that sporting platforms remain accessible to talent across all abilities.

Young athletes such as Rohit, Rajnish, Sajid, Resham, and others delivered extraordinary performances, with several participants completing over 105 kettlebell lifts in a single go—a feat that demonstrated not just physical strength, but immense determination, stamina, and mental resilience. Coming from families of migrant workers and economically vulnerable communities, these children exemplified how talent, when nurtured with the right support, can transcend barriers and expectations.

Further elevating the spirit of the championship, Dr. Payal Kanodia, two time Gold Medallist at the world kettlebell championships, an accomplished international kettlebell sportsperson, joined the event alongside her sons, Master Kian Kanodia and Master Krishiv Kanodia, in an inspiring demonstration of encouragement and solidarity with the young athletes. Their participation reflected a powerful message of family-led inspiration and support for grassroots sports.

Adding to the prestige of the event, distinguished IUKL (International Union of Kettlebell Lifting) judges also participated in ceremonial kettlebell lifts during the championship, lending international sporting recognition to the event and inspiring athletes through their presence and engagement.

Speaking on the occasion, Dr. Payal Kanodia, Chairperson & Trustee, M3M Foundation, said, “Every child deserves the opportunity to discover their strength and pursue excellence, regardless of their background. Witnessing our iMpower athletes—especially children from migrant worker families and our para athlete—compete with such confidence and determination is truly inspiring. Their achievements reinforce our belief that when young talent is nurtured with the right platform, mentorship, and encouragement, they can achieve extraordinary milestones. At M3M Foundation, we remain committed to building champions both on and off the field.”

The championship performance stands as yet another milestone in M3M Foundation’s ongoing mission to democratize access to quality sports training and competitive exposure for underserved communities. Through its Lakshya Program, the Foundation continues to nurture grassroots talent, empower young athletes, and create pathways for inclusive sporting excellence. 

About M3M Foundation

M3M Foundation is the philanthropic arm of the M3M Group, working across education, health, livelihoods, sports, and environment. With a reach across 22 states and over 1,300 villages, the Foundation has positively impacted more than 5 million lives, driven by a vision of inclusive, sustainable, and transformative nation-building.

Jonty’s Impact Player Rant: The diminishing value of all-rounders in IPL

Jonty Rhodes: Key Cricket Analyst, Parimatch

The Indian Premier League took a different route in 2022 when the league’s stakeholders decided to introduce the ‘Impact Player’ rule in the cash-rich league, allowing all 10 franchises to field 12 players in each game instead of 11 players.

At that time, it was argued that the rule would bring in more opportunities for the fringe players and would unlock a new strategic side to the game of cricket, and thus add an extra enticing flavor for the watching fans as well.

Jonty Rhodes stresses on the value of all-rounders

The Impact Player rule has had its positives over the years, with a few more players getting a chance to impress their team management and the fans alike. But, since the advent of the Impact Player rule, we have seen more focus on players with specialized skills, while all-rounders have been pushed into the background.

While some all-rounders have been able to retain their places in the playing squad, their contribution has been limited to their stronger skill, thus not even allowing them a chance to sharpen their second skill, as the franchise is not benefitting from their secondary skills in that season or in that phase, which could define the franchise’s IPL season.

All-rounders like Washington Sundar and Shivam Dube, who have been regulars of the Indian T20I setup, have been either ignored by their franchises in terms of playing squad selection or have been limited to their primary skills, as Dube has only been seen batting for CSK, while their main five bowlers and one impact player complete the job with the ball in hand.

If a team already has six to seven specialized batters and they also have an option to bring in another batter as an Impact Player if the top order collapses or the middle order fails to do their job in the crucial overs, no franchise or team would even invest in the batting skills of their bowling all-rounders and their secondary skills will continue to get ignored by the national team as well.

Being an all-rounder used to be a very valuable skill, and its importance only grew with the surge in popularity of the T20 format but a rule which allows a certain batter to be replaced by a certain bowler, or vice-versa mid-game would definitely hurt the stocks of all-rounders who are trying to find a footing or are trying to better their overall game in all aspects.

Another negative impact of the ‘Impact Player’ rule is the artificial inflation of scores, as the teams batting first often go for the big hits from the first ball, citing the availability of an extra batter if needed in the middle overs or the death overs. Even the former T20 World Cup-winning captain for India, Rohit Sharma, has previously expressed his thoughts along similar lines, and these rules end up negatively impacting the national team’s T20 setup in the long run.

Also, certain batters who are already spending hours in nets practising their strokes will be encouraged to spend even lesser time focusing on their fielding, as they know that they will be replaced by the team once their batting contribution is done, and a certain bowler will be brought into the game in his place.

Eoin Morgan praises the tactical loophole of the 12th Man

Eoin Morgan: Chief Cricket Analyst, Parimatch

I have heard many people criticise the ‘Impact Player’ rule as it artificially inflates the team’s scores, but I feel that even if that’s happening, the score is getting inflated for both teams. So, if 160-170 is the average expected score, it would go up to 220 or 240 for both sides, offering more entertainment to the fans, and making the previously unachievable targets more realistic for the chasing team.

The presence of the ‘Impact Player’ rule also offers tactical flexibility, as we have seen in other sports when a certain player gets off the bench and impacts the game for their team. Similarly, a player that was not in the main playing XI could come into a situation he specialcises for and change the game by providing a favorable matchup for their side.

Over the last few years, many cricketing pundits, including me, have been vouching for a more balanced fight between bat and ball, and this rule allows a certain bowler to come into the game after the team management has witnessed or assessed that a specific kind of bowler could provide them with an added advantage to restrict the opposition batters.

I feel that for such a rule to be used internationally or in ICC tournaments like the World Cup, we might need two Impact Player substitutes to be allowed for both teams, which could start a cat-and-mouse game between the coaches of the two teams, further emphasising the importance of data-backed moves in the modern game.

Previously, teams that were stacked with all-rounders were easily the favorites but tactically savvy oppositions have now turned the game on its head by using the ‘Impact Player’ rule wisely to their advantage, thus neutralizing the benefit of having more all-rounders on the opposition side.

Evaluating the Potential of Cameron Green

Cameron Green will be carrying the ‘Big Money Tag’ in the upcoming IPL season

The Indian Premier League mini-auction once again brought out a 25+ Crore buy, and this time around, it was an Australian yet again as three-time champions Kolkata Knight Riders splurged on Cameron Green in search of greater team balance and more firepower at the top.

The Australian all-rounder has looked completely out of form in the recently concluded T20 World Cup, as he scored only 24 runs in three matches and picked the solitary wicket of Ryan Burl. As many teams found out during the 2026 T20 World Cup, there is a big difference between the pitches on offer in India when compared to the playing surfaces in Sri Lanka, so it might be a completely different story when Green turns up at Kolkata.

With KKR deciding to part ways with INR 25.2 Crore for Green’s services, the Knight Riders would be hoping for returns like their last 25 Crore spending, which helped them acquire Mitchell Starc’s services, who helped the Knight Riders win the 2024 edition of the IPL.

Before the Impact Player rule came into play in the IPL, only all-rounders of the highest calibre who contributed in all three facets commanded huge bids in the auction. Since the playing team has been expanded to 12 players, we have seen fast bowlers and high-impact batters like Shreyas Iyer, Rishabh Pant, and Heinrich Klassen also bag big amounts of money from a single IPL season.

As we move ahead and the IPL continues to grow, the landscape will continue to evolve, and we will see the players command even higher inflated fees, which would further increase the pressure on the players due to the ‘Big Money Label’.

David Warner gives an insight into carrying the Big Money Label
Australian players getting signed for huge amounts in the IPL is not a new phenomenon, as we have previously seen many of my teammates getting snapped up by franchises for exorbitant amounts to inject a winning mentality into the squad.

In the recent past, Sunrisers Hyderabad spent more than INR 20 Crores to acquire the services of Pat Cummins, who led them to the final with his excellent leadership, while Starc was paid almost INR 25 Crores, and he repaid the trust put in him by winning the league for KKR.

Last season, we saw two amazing talents in Pant and Venkatesh Iyer getting crushed under the ‘Big Money Label’ as both players failed to consistently deliver their best for their respective franchises in the middle-order.

In contrast, Shreyas did well enough for his side, both in terms of batting and leadership, and led Punjab Kings to the final in his maiden season as Punjab’s captain. The presence of a head coach like Ricky Ponting also further helps in managing such tags and keeping the non-cricketing side of things off the field.

As I also experienced in my time with the Sunrisers, it’s easier to focus on your batting and captaincy when there is less chatter around you about things that don’t matter on the field of play.

When I left the Sunrisers and joined Ponting’s Delhi Capitals in 2022, it helped me rediscover my form in the IPL, and I was able to play my shots fearlessly, without any fear of judgment from the fans or the team management, who decided to pay a huge amount to secure the player’s services.

Former Captain Eoin Morgan feels KKR look more balanced compared to last season
Last season, KKR fell short in defending their title due to multiple reasons, with their top-order failing to fire throughout the season, while the team also looked short on bowling options in the middle overs and especially the death overs.

The Knight Riders’ decision of not retaining dynamic batters Phil Salt and Shreyas Iyer made the top-order very weak, as Quinton de Kock and Ajinkya Rahane couldn’t provide the team with the impetus at the top.

Moreover, Venkatesh Iyer, Rinku Singh, and Andre Russell also failed to live up to their billing in the middle order, which they have tried to course correct in the mini-auction.

The signings of New Zealand’s opening pair, Tim Seifert and Finn Allen, could easily solve the conundrum at the top for KKR, as the Kiwi duo is the opening pair with the highest aggregate score in the history of the ICC T20 World Cup.

Cameron Green is the apparent heir to Andre Russell for the Knight Riders

Apart from Seifert and Allen, KKR have further bolstered their top order by bringing in Green, who would be complementing his trans-Tasmanian mates. With KKR legend Russell joining the coaching staff, Green will have to fill in the primary fast-bowling all-rounder role for the Knight Riders.

Known for his explosive and aggressive batting along with his useful death bowling skills, Russell would be direly missed by KKR, but the combination of two fast bowling all-rounders in Green and Harshit Rana could soften the blow, especially with Russell mentoring them from the sidelines in his new role as ‘Power Coach’.

Apart from Green’s useful fast bowling skills, the Kolkata-based franchise has also recruited Matheesha Pathirana, who will be adding the much-needed death bowling skillset once he returns to full fitness.

Little Andaman Pro 2026 – National Surf & SUP Championship

Presented by Andaman & Nicobar Tourism, the championship will bring together some of India’s top-ranked surfers and stand-up paddle (SUP) athletes competing in the Senior Division across Surfing and Stand-Up Paddle disciplines.

The championship was formally inaugurated by Chandra Bhushan Kumar, IAS, Chief Secretary of the Andaman and Nicobar Administration, in the presence of senior officials from the Administration, representatives of the Surfing Federation of India, and a large gathering of surfers from across the country.

The event is expected to witness the participation of around 86 surfers, including international competitors, who will compete across multiple categories such as Men’s Open Surfing Shortboard, Women’s Open Surfing Shortboard, Men’s Open Stand-Up Paddleboard (SUP), and Women’s Open Stand-Up Paddleboard (SUP).

With the hosting of Little Andaman Pro 2026, the Andaman and Nicobar Islands are poised to script a new chapter in adventure tourism and ocean sports, firmly establishing Little Andaman as an emerging surfing destination in India.

The championship represents an important step in expanding India’s competitive surfing circuit. By introducing athletes to new and technically challenging wave environments, the event provides valuable exposure beyond the typical beach breaks of mainland India. Events of this scale play a vital role in strengthening the national surfing talent pipeline by offering athletes the experience and competitive platform required to progress to international competitions.

Speaking about the upcoming championship, Arun Vasu, President of the Surfing Federation of India, said, “The Little Andaman Pro marks an important milestone for Indian surfing. It not only strengthens our National Surf Series but also provides athletes the opportunity to compete in high-quality reef conditions, which is essential for their growth at the international level.”

A senior official from Andaman & Nicobar Tourism added, “We are proud to support the Little Andaman Pro 2026. The event showcases the incredible natural potential of the islands while promoting sustainable tourism and adventure sports in the region.”

As surfing continues to gain popularity worldwide, destinations that combine world-class waves with responsible tourism practices are becoming increasingly significant. The Andaman Islands, known for their pristine marine ecosystems and conservation-driven approach to tourism, offer an ideal setting for such sporting events.

Beyond the competition, the championship highlights the immense potential of the islands as a future hub for surfing and ocean sports. With crystal-clear waters, vibrant coral reefs, and consistent swell patterns, Little Andaman presents natural advantages that are increasingly attracting surfers and adventure travellers.

The event also aims to engage and inspire local communities by creating opportunities for participation, training, and employment within the growing ocean sports ecosystem.

Little Andaman Pro 2026 ultimately celebrates the spirit of surfing while promoting environmental awareness and sustainable engagement with the ocean.

For More Information: www.instagram.com/sfisurfing

Event Overview
Event: Little Andaman Pro 2026 – National Surf & SUP Championship
Dates: 9 – 12 April 2026
Location: Little Andaman, Andaman & Nicobar Islands
Divisions: Senior Division (Surfing & Stand-Up Paddle)
Organised by: Surfing Federation of India
Presented by: Andaman & Nicobar Tourism

About the Surfing Federation of India
The Surfing Federation of India (SFI) is the national governing body for surfing in India, responsible for developing the sport through competitions, athlete development programs, and international representation. Under the leadership of President Arun Vasu, SFI continues to build a strong and inclusive surfing ecosystem across the country.

For more information, please log on to www.surfingfederationofindia.org

The "Indian Tigress" Ritu Phogat Becomes a Brand Ambassador for Parimatch Sports

Ritu Phogat won gold at the Commonwealth Championship and silver at the Under-23 World Championship before transitioning to professional mixed martial arts. In MMA, she competed in ONE Championship, reaching the final of the prestigious ONE Women’s Atomweight World Grand Prix. She solidified her image as the “Indian Tigress” thanks to her aggressive, technical fighting style and determination in the ring.

“My goal is to become the first Indian world champion in MMA and to pave the way for other women athletes. Every fight is a chance to show that perseverance and courage matter more than any doubts or obstacles, and my partnership with Parimatch Sports helps me move forward on the path to victory,” emphasized Ritu Phogat.

Her transition from wrestling to MMA was a bold step: Ritu gave up potential Olympic opportunities to pursue a career in a new sport, demonstrating a willingness to take risks for greater goals and inspiring the next generation of athletes.

“Our partnership with Ritu Phogat reflects our commitment to supporting outstanding athletes. Her achievements and remarkable charisma make her an ideal brand ambassador. Parimatch Sports, equally dynamic and vibrant, draws inspiration from champions and shares their drive for success,” highlighted the Parimatch Sports Press Office.

Parimatch and Ritu Phogat join forces to inspire athletes and promote women’s sports, highlighting how the journey of the “Indian Tigress” embodies resilience and passion that fuel extraordinary achievements. Their collaboration serves as a powerful testament, motivating aspiring athletes to face challenges boldly and pursue their goals with relentless drive.

About Parimatch Sports
Parimatch Sports is a high-quality sportswear brand inspired by the world’s top athletes and designed to equip every brave soul on their winning track. Trusted by international stars like Trinidadian cricket legend Sunil Narine, Parimatch Sports creates professional on-field kits for football and cricket teams, including its partnership with the star cricket team Maharashtra Tycoons, alongside a comprehensive range of stylish workout wear for fans. The brand stands out with exclusive designs inspired by the greatest athletes and their victories on the pitch. Parimatch Sports aims to expand the horizons of Asia’s love for sports, bringing it to a new level.

Signify Khel Jyoti Initiative for International Day of Sport for Development and Peace

As part of its commitment to supporting sports development in India, Signify has successfully illuminated four Kabaddi and Kho-Kho centers in rural Haryana, with industry leading energy-efficient LED sports lighting. This intervention is aimed at strengthening the sports ecosystems, enabling inclusive participation, and creating safer, more accessible spaces for athletes to train and compete after sunset.

Signify Khel Jyoti Initiative for International Day of Sport for Development and Peace

Well-illuminated sports grounds significantly extend usable hours, allowing athletes to practice beyond sunset and during early mornings. Enhanced lighting improves visibility, safety, and performance conditions, while encouraging greater participation from youth, women, and local communities. By creating safer and more inclusive spaces for sports, Signify continues to champion accessibility, talent development, and community well-being through the power of light.

Signify Khel Jyoti Initiative for International Day of Sport for Development and Peace

Speaking on the initiative, Nikhil Gupta, Head of Strategy & Marketing, Signify, Greater India said, “Sport has the power to bring communities together and create opportunities for young talent, especially in underserved regions. At Signify, we believe in bringing the best of innovations across India, through Signify Khel Jyoti, we are enabling access to safe and inclusive sporting spaces by improving infrastructure at the grassroots level. This initiative reflects our continued commitment to driving long-term social impact through innovation and sustainability for brighter lives and a better world.”

Divyanshu Singh, CEO, JSW Sports and Haryana Steelers added, “Through Signify Khel Jyoti, we are seeing how an intervention like lighting can unlock significant potential at the grassroots level. In a state like Haryana, where Kabaddi is part of everyday life, extending training hours and improving safety can directly influence participation and performance. At JSW Sports and Haryana Steelers, we remain committed to supporting initiatives that create real, measurable impact and strengthen the future of Indian sport from the ground up.”

The initiative has created meaningful impacts at the community level. With the availability of light extending, playing hours have led to increased participation across age groups, with a notable rise in girls’ participation and overall enrollment. These centers have historically produced athletes who have gone on to represent India and compete at the highest levels, including the Pro Kabaddi League, underlining the importance of strengthening grassroots infrastructure in regions like Haryana.

The centers were identified through a structured selection process with input from JSW Sports and Haryana Steelers team focusing on active training ecosystems, presence of coaching support, and potential for long-term impact. The project was executed by Pro Sport Development, ensuring effective on-ground execution and alignment with local community needs.

Signify Khel Jyoti CSR initiative has illuminated over 200 grassroots sports centers across India, reinforcing its commitment to building an inclusive and sustainable sports ecosystem.

About Signify

Signify (Euronext: LIGHT) is the world leader in lighting for professionals and consumers. We proudly bring to market the world’s best lighting brands, from Signify, Philips, Philips Hue, Signify Interact, Philips Dynalite, Color Kinetics and many more. Our advanced products, connected systems and services unlock the extraordinary potential of light for brighter lives and a better world. In 2025, we had sales of EUR 5.8 billion, approximately 27,000 employees, and a presence in over 70 markets. We are in the Dow Jones Sustainability World Index and hold the EcoVadis Platinum rating.

News and updates from Signify can be found in the Newsroom, on LinkedIn and Instagram. Information for investors is located on the Investor Relations page.

Prashant Veer (R) and Kartik Sharma (C) with Rahul Chahar (L) in CSK pre-season camp

The Indian Premier League mini-auction once again brought out many surprises, but none more than Chennai Super Kings splurging over Rs. 28 Crores on two unknown commodities, Kartik Sharma and Prashant Veer.

Eoin Morgan’s Scouting Report
With MS Dhoni approaching the end of his career and Ravindra Jadeja traded to Rajasthan Royals along with Sam Curran in exchange for the prized asset of Sanju Samson, Chennai Super Kings entered the mini-auction with a clear plan of strengthening the middle order.

By acquiring the duo for Rs. 14.2 Crores each, the Super Kings set the record for the most amount of money paid to an uncapped player, that too twice in the same auction. The mini-auction also saw Aquib Nabi’s efforts get a fair reward as he became the third costliest uncapped buy in the IPL auction history.

Prashant Veer
In the 2025-26 Syed Mushtaq Ali Trophy, Prashant Veer made a name for himself whilst representing Uttar Pradesh as the left-arm all-rounder, picking 9 wickets in 7 matches at an average of 18.77, while also bowling at an excellent economy rate of 6.76. With the bat in hand, the left-hander scored 112 runs at a strike rate of 170, which proves that he doesn’t need a lot of balls to settle in before firing off the big shots.

Before the Syed Mushtaq Ali Trophy, Veer also made a name for himself while playing for Noida Super Kings in the UP T20 League. While his numbers may seem ordinary, Veer’s fitness and temperament in crucial situations have made him stand out from his other colleagues, and which is probably why the CSK management decided to take a punt on him in order to find the next Ravindra Jadeja.

Kartik Sharma
Kartik Sharma is a talent that we will be seeing more and more of in the coming years, as the youngster started impressing early on in age-group tournaments like Vijay Merchant Trophy and Vinoo Mankad Trophy.

Despite impressing at an early age, Kartik missed the bus for the 2024 ICC U-19 World Cup due to the sheer number of talents India has been producing in the last few years and also couldn’t make it to the 2025 IPL mega-auction.

But, Kartik’s Ranji Trophy debut for Rajasthan against Uttarakhand was phenomenal as he smashed 113 runs off 115 balls, and then went on to score a century on his List A Debut as well in the Vijay Hazare Trophy. Averaging 40+ in his maiden Ranji Trophy season and 50+ in his maiden Vijay Hazare Trophy season at a strike rate of 118 makes Kartik one of the most exciting wicket-keeper batters going around in the country.

Still in his teenage years, Kartik is a promising middle-order batter whose strokeplay has amused one and all across the cricketing world and the batter could be a long-term replacement for MS Dhoni who is approaching the fag end of his IPL career.

As seen in IPL 2025, experienced players like Rishabh Pant and Venkatesh Iyer also crumbled under the pressure created by the amount they were getting paid for the league season, so it would be a huge challenge for these two young players to ignore the ‘Big Money Label’ and focus purely on the cricketing side of things.

Jonty Rhodes weighs in on spotting raw domestic talent
I feel it is very important to nurture talent from a young age. I grew up in the 1970s and there was not a lot of coaching around at that time in cricket, especially for fielding, so we had to learn from our own mistakes on the field. 

I personally always wanted to give my best on the field and I learnt this quality from playing other sports like football, hockey, and tennis, and from my father who was a rugby player and did a lot for primary school sports back in South Africa.

These days, fielding has emerged as the third pillar of the game and we need to instill the correct values and attitude in the players from a young age, because skills can be taught but the right attitude must be instilled and spotted from an early age.

While teams like CSK have now understood the importance of nurturing young talent and publicly acknowledged and acted upon the fact that they need to bring in more young talent. Last season, we witnessed the Super Kings bringing in Ayush Mhatre, Dewald Brevis, and Urvil Patel and they have picked two more potential young stars in the mini-auction.

The crucial thing in grooming youngsters is allowing them the freedom to fail, as we previously seen multiple times at Mumbai Indians, they have allowed a space for their young talent to flourish with the likes of Hardik Pandya, Jasprit Bumrah, Tilak Varma, and Ishan Kishan coming through at the franchise.

Now, it’s upon these young players coming through to show a commitment to growth with the correct attitude and spread more positive energy and display more athleticism, not only in competitive matches, but also on the training grounds and in the simulation matches.

CPL 2.0 introduces higher rewards and a broader participation framework

Over the past decade, Paisabazaar has been at the forefront of building credit awareness in India through its free credit score initiative, helping millions of consumers access, understand, and improve their credit health. CPL, according to Paisabazaar, is a natural extension of this commitment—designed to make credit awareness more engaging, participative, and action-oriented.

Santosh Agarwal, CEO, Paisabazaar, said,  "Driving large-scale awareness and engagement around credit has been central to our journey. With CPL, we are bringing together engagement, gamification and rewards to make conversations around credit score more mainstream. Our focus remains on building a financially aware and credit-healthy Bharat-in line with our brand purpose ‘Har Sapna Hoga Sach’, enabling consumers to make informed financial decisions."

Building on the strong traction from its previous edition, CPL 2.0 introduces higher rewards and a broader participation framework. Individual(s) with the highest score in the country will win Rs. 1 lakh, while champions from each state will receive Rs. 10,000 each. In addition, all participants from the winning state (with the highest average credit score) will also be rewarded.

All rewards won in CPL 2.0 will be credited to winners’ PB Wallet, enabling them to seamlessly pay their credit card bills, recharge prepaid mobiles, and settle postpaid and utility bills directly on the Paisabazaar platform—making the rewards instantly usable and relevant to everyday financial needs.

The first edition of CPL saw over 5.5 million participants, with the highest score touching 861. Delhi emerged as the top-performing city, recording the highest average credit score of 746.

CPL 2.0 builds on this momentum by combining engagement, gamification, and rewards to make credit awareness more accessible and compelling.

Consumers can participate by checking their free credit score on the Paisabazaar platform or app. The CPL leaderboard and rankings will be available exclusively on the Paisabazaar App.

About Paisabazaar
Paisabazaar, a part of PB Fintech (listed since 2021), is India’s largest marketplace for consumer credit and free credit score. Over the last 11 years, Paisabazaar has earned the trust of over 55 million consumers. Paisabazaar has built 65+ partnerships withBanks, NBFCs, and fintechs to offer a broad range of credit products. Paisabazaar is ISO (27001:2013) and PCI DSS certified organisation, with industry-best controls, to safeguard the best interest of consumers.

Bisleri Marks Its Largest T20 Season Play with Five Leading Cricket Franchises

With a legacy spanning over five decades, Bisleri continues to champion hydration as a critical pillar of performance, building one of the region’s most expansive sports marketing portfolios across India and the Middle East. The ongoing partnerships further deepen the brand’s association with high-energy cricketing platforms that resonate strongly with passionate audiences.

Expressing enthusiasm on the extension of this partnership, Tushar Malhotra, Director of Sales & Marketing, Bisleri International said, “The T20 cricket season is one of the biggest sporting spectacles in the world and represents one of our largest sports partnerships at Bisleri. As we mark our fourth consecutive season of hydration partnerships with some of the most celebrated cricketing franchises in the country, it provides a powerful cultural moment to engage with consumers at scale. Through integrated activations across retail, on-ground experiences and digital storytelling, we aim to enhance visibility while continuing to champion the importance of everyday hydration as an essential part of performance and lifestyle.”

Sunil Gupta, CEO, Delhi Capitals, said, “We are delighted to extend our partnership with Bisleri for another exciting IPL season. Over the years, this association has evolved into a strong and meaningful collaboration, and together we aim to create memorable experiences for our fans.”

Satish Menon, CEO, Punjab Kings, said, “We are delighted to welcome Bisleri to the Punjab Kings family as our official partner. Bisleri is a brand that enjoys immense trust across the country, and this long-term partnership aligns with our vision of working in collaboration with the brands that share values of performance, consistency and fan-first engagement.”

Alok Chitre, Chief Operating Officer, Rajasthan Royals, said “Continuing our partnership with Bisleri as our Official Hydration Partner reflects a strong and valued association for the Royals, centred around elevating the fan experience. This season, we look forward to championing the partnership through engaging digital content and unique on-ground activations that bring us even closer to our fans."  

Rajesh Menon, CEO of Royal Challengers Bengaluru, said “We are delighted to continue our partnership with Bisleri as our Official Hydration Partner. With one of the most passionate fan communities in cricket, strengthened associations like this enable us to create memorable experiences and celebrate the unmatched energy of RCB fans throughout the season.”

Mr. K Shanmugam, CEO of Sunrisers Hyderabad, said, "We are proud to welcome Bisleri into the Sunrisers Hyderabad family. Their legacy of quality and consistency makes them a natural fit for our ecosystem. This partnership reinforces our focus on working with brands that bring tangible value to our team, our players, and our fans."

The partnerships are designed to bring fans closer to the action - from limited-edition team bottles to high-energy stadium experiences, retail activations, and interactive digital content throughout the season. By integrating with each franchise’s unique regional fan base, the initiative aims to celebrate the passion, loyalty, and identity that define Indian cricket fandom. We have also partnered with Star Sports to be present with our television commercials across all the matches of the season. 

With partnerships spanning 120+ sporting associations, Bisleri commands one of the largest hydration portfolios across India and the Middle East, cutting across virtually every major sporting genre. Our associations include some of the most iconic sporting properties such as all Procam Marathons, the Dubai Marathon, the Ras Al Khaimah Half Marathon, the Professional Golf Tour of India, seven football teams in the Indian Super League, five teams in the UAE ILT20 League, Ultimate Table Tennis, the Mubadala Abu Dhabi Tennis Open, leading WTA Tour and ATP Tour events in India, the Hockey India League, the Ladakh Marathon, the JSW Indian Open, Spartan Race, and many more, reinforcing our commitment to powering athletes and sporting excellence at every level.

About Bisleri International Pvt. Ltd
With a legacy of over 50 years, Bisleri International Pvt. Ltd has grown to become one of the largest premium beverage businesses in India. Being the makers of the country's largest-selling packaged drinking water, Bisleri follows a stringent process of 114 quality tests and a 10-stage purification. It remains true to its core value of providing consumers with pure, safe and healthy water.
 
Bisleri International has a strong presence with 128 operational plants and a robust distribution network of over 6,000 Distributors and 7,500 Distribution Trucks across India and UAE market. It offers a range of beverages that are produced for all occasions. Whether it is the promise of goodness, trust, and purity with Bisleri packaged drinking water, or a daily dose of health offered through Vedica Himalayan Spring Water. Besides, Bisleri International has ventured into fun-filled refreshments with a diverse range of carbonated drinks available in multiple flavours, such as Bisleri Limonata, Bisleri Rev, Bisleri Spyci Jeera, Bisleri Pop and Bisleri Soda. These Bisleri products are also available on the e-commerce platform - Bisleri@Doorstep. This D2C platform reassures customers that they will receive a safe and uninterrupted supply of their most trusted brand at their doorstep.
 
The core values of Bisleri International lie in yielding growth and embedding sustainability by being responsible in all aspects of the business. The organization has unveiled Sustainability 2.0 with Bisleri Greener Promise that focuses on creating greener future for all through implementing initiatives under the program of recycling, water conservation, and sustainability.

For more information on Bisleri International, our people, brands, and OSR initiatives, visit www.bisleri.com

EcoLink joins Sunrisers Hyderabad as the official partner for upcoming T20 season
 

Built on a strong consumer connect, EcoLink continues to grow as a brand focused on delivering reliable, value-driven solutions for Indian homes. The association leverages the scale of cricket to bring the brand closer to millions of fans nationwide, supported by on-ground visibility, headgear branding, and integrated campaign activations.

Sumit Joshi, CEO and MD, Signify, Greater India said, "At Signify, we are focused on driving innovation that creates meaningful value for our consumers. EcoLink plays an important role in this journey by offering reliable and accessible solutions for Indian homes. As we continue to expand the brand’s presence, the T20 season provides a powerful platform to connect with consumers at scale. Our partnership with Sunrisers Hyderabad allows us to engage with passionate fans while strengthening EcoLink’s connect across households in India.”

Nikhil Gupta, Head of Strategy and Marketing, Signify, Greater India added, “EcoLink has seen strong consumer traction, and this partnership is a strategic step towards amplifying that momentum at scale. With a growing footprint and a sharp focus on delivering reliable, high-performance solutions, EcoLink aligns closely with the spirit of Sunrisers Hyderabad backing potential, driving consistency, and building trust. Through high-impact visibility, integrated campaigns, and fan-first engagement, we aim to deepen consumer connect and further strengthen EcoLink’s position as a trusted and accessible brand for Indian households.”

Mr. K Shanmugam, CEO of Sunrisers Hyderabad stated, "We are pleased to associate with EcoLink for the upcoming T20 series. At Sunrisers Hyderabad, we are driven by a culture of innovation and deep engagement with our passionate fan base. We're confident that this partnership will enhance the fan experience and keep the energy high as we battle for the trophy."

Sunrise Hyderabad enters the season with strong squads, led by Interim captain Ishan Kishan and Head Coach Daniel Vettori. The team features a host of players, including Abhishek Sharma, Ishan Kishan, Pat Cummins, Travis Head, Heinrich Klaasen, Nitish Kumar Reddy, Harshal Patel, Jaidev Unadkat and Liam Livingstone delivering high performances and keep fans engaged throughout the season.

About Signify
Signify (Euronext: LIGHT) is the world leader in lighting for professionals and consumers. We proudly bring to market the world’s best lighting brands, from Signify, Philips, Philips Hue, Signify Interact, Philips Dynalite, Color Kinetics and many more. Our advanced products connected systems and services unlock the extraordinary potential of light for brighter lives and a better world. In 2025, we had sales of EUR 5.8 billion, approximately 27,000 employees, and a presence in over 70 markets. We are in the Dow Jones Sustainability World Index and hold the EcoVadis Platinum rating. News and updates from Signify can be found in the Newsroom, on LinkedIn and Instagram. Information for investors is located on the Investor Relations page.

Galgotias University wins Overall Champions Trophy at 67th Milestone X Heroes Challenge 2026

The student of Galgotias demonstrated their tremendous level of skill, determination and teamwork during their competitions with the other highly respected universities throughout India, earning them the title of top performing institution at this year’s tournament.

The university achieved an impressive haul of medals from a variety of events, capturing gold medals in women's badminton, men's basketball, men's volleyball, chess, and archery (2 gold medals). Silver medals were also earned by the university in men's badminton, women's volleyball, kabaddi, and archery (1 silver medal), while bronze medals were earned in archery and cricket.

The collective success of all athletes in both individual and team competitions provides strong evidence of the school’s continued dedication to nurturing and developing the entire person as well as producing elite-level athleticism for those who demonstrate excellence academically. This represents a further consolidation of Galgotias University's place among the premier institutions competing in inter-university sports by consistently demonstrating its performance excellence on a national level.

About Galgotias University

Galgotias University is among the world’s leading universities in Quacquarelli Symonds (QS Rankings) and Times Higher Education (THE) Rankings.

Galgotias University proudly ascends in the QS World University Rankings 2026 by Quacquarelli Symonds, securing a coveted position in the 1201–1400 global band. Ranked 15th among top private universities and 43rd among all Indian universities, this achievement marks a powerful endorsement of Galgotias’ unwavering commitment to academic excellence, global relevance, and innovation in higher education. Galgotias has also been accredited with NAAC A+ grade in its very first cycle, achieving these milestones in a record time of just 14 years.

In the Times Higher Education (THE) World University Rankings 2025, Galgotias University has been ranked 45th among Indian universities (including both government and private institutions) and placed in the globally prestigious 1001–1200 band. This recognition reinforces the university’s growing stature in the international academic landscape and reflects its consistent progress across global higher education benchmarks.

These recognitions highlight Galgotias University’s strong focus on teaching excellence, research impact, internationalization, industry integration, and innovation driven learning, shaping globally competent graduates ready for the challenges of the future.

For more information, please contact:

Dr. N K Gaur

Registrar

Galgotias University

registrar@galgotiasuniversity.edu.in.
Please visit: www.galgotiasuniversity.edu.in.

Cricket is no longer viewed solely through on‑field performances; it is increasingly shaped by the stories, personalities and cultural moments that surround it. This shift mirrors the ethos of Oaksmith Style Studio, making Rajasthan Royals a natural and authentic partner for the brand.

Led by captain Riyan Parag and strengthened by marquee names including Ravindra Jadeja, who returns to the franchise for 2026 season, the squad also features experienced players like Ravi Bishnoi and emerging Indian stars such as Yashasvi Jaiswal, Vaibhav Sooryavanshi and Dhruv Jurel alongside world-class overseas talent including Shimron Hetmyer and Jofra Archer giving the Royals a dynamic and globally balanced lineup. Over the years, the team has shaped a distinct fan culture one that reflects the way a new generation experiences the game today.

The partnership will come to life across multiple touchpoints during the season, reflecting a 360‑degree presence that builds on the cultural rhythm of the cricket carnival. Oaksmith will feature on the top right chest of the Rajasthan Royals jersey, ensuring prominent, high‑visibility integration throughout the tournament. This on‑ground presence will be complemented by digital storytelling and social content rooted in Oaksmith Style Studio’s lens on contemporary Indian style, along with moments featuring players that highlight the convergence of individuality, fandom, and cricket culture. Through these integrations, Oaksmith aims to engage with audiences in a way that mirrors how fans interact with the tournament today — not just watching it, but living it, expressing it, and identifying with it.

Speaking about the association, Neeraj Kumar, Managing Director, Suntory Global Spirits India said: “Partnering with Rajasthan Royals aligns with our intent to associate Oaksmith with platforms that hold strong cultural relevance in India. The annual high-octane season continues to be one of the country’s most influential shared moments, and Rajasthan Royals represent a franchise that reflects a bold ambition and modern thinking. This partnership allows Oaksmith to engage meaningfully with how today’s audiences experience cricket as part of a broader cultural landscape.”

Rishi Walli, Senior Director – Marketing & IMFL, Suntory Global Spirits, added: “Rajasthan Royals have consistently represented a mindset of ambition, and belief in doing things differently, which aligns with Oaksmith’s philosophy of standing tall and pegging it higher. Our association with Rajasthan Royals offers a unique opportunity where new standards in style, and fandom come together, and Oaksmith Style Studio allows us to bring this spirit alive in a manner that is engaging for our consumers.”    

Alok Chitre, COO, Rajasthan Royals added, “Rajasthan Royals is as much about the culture around the game as it is about the action on the field. Our partnership with Oaksmith reflects a shared intent to engage with fans in ways that feel authentic, contemporary, and relevant to how the new generation experiences cricket. Through Oaksmith Style Studio, we look forward to creating meaningful visibility and fan-first moments throughout the season.”

Throughout the 2026 season, the Oaksmith–Rajasthan Royals partnership will unfold in a consistent and culturally resonant manner, designed to integrate authentically with the franchise’s ethos and the evolving ways fans experience the tournament.      With this association, Oaksmith Style Studio strengthens its presence within India’s most influential cultural arena, reinforcing the brand’s commitment to engaging with the modern, expressive, and ever‑evolving world of contemporary cricket fandom.

About Suntory Global Spirits

As a world leader in premium spirits, Suntory Global Spirits inspires the brilliance of life, by creating rich experiences for people, in harmony with nature. Known for its craftsmanship of premium spirits, including Jim Beam® and Maker's Mark®; Japanese spirits, including Yamazaki®, Hakushu®, Hibiki® and Toki™; and leading brands including Laphroaig® and Bowmore®, Suntory Global Spirits also produces leading brands such as Tres Generaciones® and El Tesoro®, Roku™ and Sipsmith®, and is a world leader in Ready-To-Drink cocktails, with brands like -196™ (minus one-nine-six) and On The Rocks™ Premium Cocktails.

A global company with approximately 6,000 employees in nearly 30 countries, Suntory Global Spirits is driven by its core values of Growing for Good, Yatte Minahare and Giving Back to Society. The company’s Proof Positive sustainability strategy includes ambitious goals and investments to drive sustainable change and have a positive impact on the planet, consumers, and communities. Headquartered in New York City, Suntory Global Spirits is a subsidiary of Suntory Holdings Limited of Japan.

For more information, visit www.suntoryglobalspirits.com and www.drinksmart.com.

About Rajasthan Royals

Rajasthan Royals were the champions of the inaugural 2008 season and are one of the 10 teams competing in the Indian Premier League (IPL). The franchise completed a major shareholding restructure in 2021, with Emerging Media having the majority ownership of the franchise with support from new co-investor RedBird Capital Partners.

For more information, please log on to  www.rajasthanroyals.com.

EcoLink Becomes Associate Sponsor for Rajasthan Royals

The partnership also aligns with the upcoming product portfolio from EcoLink, reinforcing the brand’s commitment to delivering reliable and efficient solutions for Indian consumers. Much like the pursuit of excellence on the field by Rajasthan Royals, EcoLink aims to power comfort and convenience in millions of homes across the country. As part of the collaboration, the brand will feature prominently on leading head gear, supported by an integrated promotional campaign and digital activations throughout the tournament.

Sumit Joshi, CEO and MD, Signify, Greater India said, "At Signify, we are committed to driving innovation and delivering meaningful value to our consumers. With EcoLink, our emerging electrical brand, we are focused on bringing reliable and accessible solutions to Indian homes. As we expand the brand’s presence across the country, the Indian Premier League offers a powerful platform to connect with millions of consumers. Our partnership with Rajasthan Royals allows us to engage with passionate cricket fans while bringing EcoLink closer to households across India. This collaboration reflects our ambition to strengthen the brand’s footprint and accelerate its growth in one of the world’s most dynamic markets.”

Nikhil Gupta, Head of Strategy and Marketing for Greater India, Signify, added, "Cricket is deeply embedded in India’s cultural fabric, and the upcoming season offers an unparalleled platform for brands to connect with audiences at scale. We have received a strong consumer response for our EcoLink BLDC fans across India. With our partnership with Rajasthan Royals, we aim to create high-impact visibility for EcoLink through on-ground presence, leading head gear branding, and integrated fan engagement initiatives. This partnership is a key part of our strategy to build a stronger consumer connect and reinforce EcoLink as a trusted, accessible BLDC fans brand for millions of Indian homes."

Alok Chitre, COO, Rajasthan Royals said, "We are proud to partner with EcoLink and welcome them to the Rajasthan Royals family. The scale and reach of the Royals fan community allow us to offer a powerful platform to connect with fans through strong in-stadia presence, digital storytelling and year-round engagement. Through this association, we look forward to enabling meaningful visibility and fan interaction across the season.”

This partnership brings together EcoLink and the massive reach of the upcoming T20 series to connect with consumers across India. With a proven track record of delivering reliable, high-performance products in over 20 countries, EcoLink shares a common commitment with Rajasthan Royals: betting on emerging technology and talent, building trust, consistent performance, reliability, and creating memorable experiences for millions of fans.

Rajasthan Royals enter the season with strong squads, led by captain Riyan Parag and head coach Kumar Sangakkara. The team features a blend of talented players, including Vaibhav Suryavanshi, Ravindra Jadeja, Yashasvi Jaiswal poised to deliver thrilling performances and keep fans engaged throughout the season.

About Signify

Signify (Euronext: LIGHT) is the world leader in lighting for professionals and consumers. We proudly bring to market the world’s best lighting brands, from Signify, Philips, Philips Hue, Signify Interact, Philips Dynalite, Color Kinetics and many more. Our advanced products connected systems and services unlock the extraordinary potential of light for brighter lives and a better world. In 2025, we had sales of EUR 5.8 billion, approximately 27,000 employees, and a presence in over 70 markets. We are in the Dow Jones Sustainability World Index and hold the EcoVadis Platinum rating. News and updates from Signify can be found in the Newsroom, on LinkedIn and Instagram. Information for investors is located on the Investor Relations page.

About Rajasthan Royals

Rajasthan Royals were the champions of the inaugural 2008 season and are one of the 10 teams competing in the Indian Premier League (IPL). The franchise completed a major shareholding restructure in 2021, with Emerging Media having the majority ownership of the franchise with support from new co-investor RedBird Capital Partners.

For more information, please log on to  www.rajasthanroyals.com.

Ai+ Smartphone Partners with Mumbai Indians and Kolkata Knight Riders as Official Smartphone Partner

The partnership places Ai+ Smartphone at the centre of one of India’s most powerful and biggest cultural platforms connecting the brand directly with millions of passionate cricket fans across the country offering exclusive fan experiences including player meet and greet, match tickets, and signed merchandise and access to exclusive player content shot on Ai+ Smartphone.

Commenting on the partnership, Madhav Sheth, CEO of Ai+ Smartphone and Founder of NxtQuantum Shift Technologies, said, “Sport has a unique ability to bring people together in moments of shared excitement and aspiration. Our partnership with Mumbai Indians and Kolkata Knight Riders allows Ai+ Smartphone to connect with millions of fans where India’s energy is most visible and alive. It reflects our belief that technology should move at the same pace as the ambition and passion of the people who use it.”

A Mumbai Indians spokesperson said, “Ai+ Smartphone’s focus on delivering accessible, high-performance technology aligns well with the evolving expectations of today’s fans. We look forward to collaborating on initiatives that enhance how fans engage with the game.”

Binda Dey, CMO, Knight Riders Sports, said, “Cricket in India brings together fans, communities, and shared moments at an unmatched scale. Our approach to partnerships is focused on creating meaningful engagement and delivering experiences that feel relevant and accessible to fans. With Ai+ Smartphone, we look forward to building initiatives that deepen this connection and add value to the overall fan journey.”

For Ai+, the partnership represents more than brand visibility, its when India comes together across cities, communities, and generations. By aligning with two of the league’s most iconic franchises, Ai+ Smartphone aims to become part of those moments where competition, celebration, and collective excitement define the national conversation.

The collaboration will see Ai+ Smartphone integrated across team platforms, fan experiences, and digital activations throughout the season, creating new opportunities for fans to interact with the teams and the brand.

With this partnership, Ai+ Smartphone strengthens its presence at the intersection of technology, culture, and sport, positioning the brand within the moments that shape modern India.

About Ai+ Smartphone

Ai+ Smartphone is a next-generation brand built in India, delivering reliable and high-performance mobile experiences. Powered by NxtQuantum OS, India’s first sovereign mobile operating system. The brand focuses on delivering a clean design, ensuring long battery life, and maintaining trusted software performance, all while keeping prices accessible without compromising the user experience.

From redefining smartphones to pioneering AIoT products as part of the company's Connected Ecosystem, Ai+ Smartphone is creating a new standard for trust, immersive experience, and accessibility. Rooted in a privacy-first architecture and a commitment to equitable access, Ai+ Smartphone stands for more than specs — it stands for India’s next era of user-owned, future-ready technology.

About NxtQuantum Shift Technologies
NxtQuantum Shift Technologies is a deep-tech Indian company building secure, sovereign digital platforms for a digital-first world. Founded by Madhav Sheth, the company develops NxtQuantum OS, India’s first sovereign operating system, and is committed to building technology that is authored in India and globally competitive.

Dr. Payal Kanodia, Chairperson & Trustee, M3M Foundation, felicitated by Yogeshwar Dutt at his Wrestling Academy, alongside Dr. Aishwarya Mahajan and esteemed coaches, as the championship officially begins with young wrestlers stepping onto the mat

Organised under the inspiring theme “Mitti Se Olympics Medal Tak,” the national championship witnessed the participation of 550+ Under-20 wrestlers from across the country, including 25+ international-level wrestlers. The tournament brought together participants from 8+ states, representing 50+ akhadas and wrestling academies, providing a strong national platform for emerging talent to showcase their skill, determination and competitive spirit.

The two-day championship was hosted at the Yogeshwar Dutt Wrestling Academy, founded by Olympic medalist Yogeshwar Dutt, reflecting the deep-rooted connection between India’s traditional wrestling culture and the country’s aspirations for global sporting excellence. Speaking on the occasion, Yogeshwar Dutt said that the true strength of Indian wrestling lies in the soil of villages and the traditions of akhadas, and when young athletes receive the right guidance, training and opportunities, they emerge as champions who bring glory to the nation on international platforms.

During the event, a Girls’ Hostel at the Yogeshwar Dutt Sports Academy was also inaugurated with the support of M3M Foundation, marking an important step towards strengthening sports infrastructure and enabling more young female athletes to access safe and professional training facilities.

The championship featured intense bouts across several categories. Competitions were organised in Under-20 (Boys) and Under-23 (Girls) divisions, along with an Open Weight Category.

In the Under-20 (Boys) division, matches were held across 50 kg, 57 kg, 65 kg, 74 kg, 85 kg and 92 kg weight categories, while the Under-23 (Girls) division featured competitions in 50 kg, 55 kg, 60 kg and +65 kg weight categories. Outstanding performers across all categories were felicitated for their remarkable achievements.

Wrestlers securing first, second, third and fourth positions in various weight categories were awarded cash prizes in recognition of their hard work, discipline and sporting excellence.

The event was graced by several eminent personalities from the sports fraternity and public life, including Dr. Payal Kanodia, Chairperson and Trustee, M3M Foundation and medalist at the International Kettlebell Lifting World Championship, former Member of Parliament and former President of the Wrestling Federation of India Shri Brij Bhushan Sharan Singh, Olympic silver medalist wrestler Ravi Dahiya, President of the Wrestling Federation of India Shri Sanjay Singh, and legendary wrestling coach Mahabali Satpal.

Speaking at the event, Dr. Payal Kanodia said, “Being a sportsperson myself, I understand the dedication, discipline and resilience it takes to excel in competitive sports. At M3M Foundation, we firmly believe that India’s future Olympic champions will emerge from our villages and akhadas. Through initiatives like the M3M Foundation Gold Cup, we aim to provide young athletes with the right platforms to showcase their talent and aspire for excellence at national and international levels.”

Shri Brij Bhushan Sharan Singh noted that India has a proud and historic wrestling tradition, and even today many of the country’s finest wrestlers emerge from grassroots akhadas. He added that national-level competitions like this provide young athletes with an invaluable competitive platform and help prepare them for global sporting arenas such as the Olympics.

The championship was organised under M3M Foundation’s ‘Lakshya’ programme, an initiative aimed at empowering talented youth in sports, visual arts and performing arts by providing opportunities, mentorship and platforms to realise their full potential.

Through initiatives like the M3M Foundation Gold Cup, the foundation continues to strengthen grassroots sports development and inspire young athletes to dream bigger-contributing to India’s long-term vision of producing world-class athletes and future Olympic medalists.

About M3M Foundation
M3M Foundation is the philanthropic arm of the M3M Group, working across education, health, livelihoods, sports, and environment. With a reach across 22 states and over 1,300 villages, the Foundation has positively impacted more than 5 million lives, driven by a vision of inclusive, sustainable, and transformative nation-building.

For Numeros, the partnership is a natural extension of its Always Moving philosophy. Movement with intention, and progress with purpose. In Super Kings Academy, Numeros found a partner that builds champions from the ground up — a direct parallel between the grit of a budding athlete and the excellence of EV engineering.

"Super Kings Academy represents everything we believe in. Discipline, perseverance, and the will to keep moving forward. We are excited to back the next generation of Indian cricketers, and look forward to building something meaningful together, on and off the field," said Shreyas Shibulal, Founder and CEO of Numeros Motors.

Since its launch in April 2022, Super Kings Academy has built cricketing communities across India and international centres in the USA, Australia and Canada.

Speaking about the association, Chennai Super Kings Managing Director KS Viswanathan said, "We are pleased to welcome Numeros Motors as an official partner of Super Kings Academy. At Super Kings Academy, our mission has always been to nurture young talent and provide opportunities for the next generation of athletes. With Numeros Motors sharing our commitment for excellence and innovation, we look forward to working together to inspire and support aspiring players on their journey. We thank Numeros Motors for coming forward and supporting the development of grassroots cricket.”

The association also marks a significant moment in Numeros' brand journey. In 2025, the OEM launched two electric two-wheeler platforms — Diplos, which completed India's largest OEM pilot test covering over 14 million kilometres on Indian roads, and n-First, an urban crossover designed especially for women riders.

About Numeros Motors

Founded in 2020 by Shreyas Shibulal, Numeros Motors is a Bengaluru-based Original Equipment Manufacturer (OEM) that designs and manufactures indigenous, multipurpose electric two-wheelers catering to diverse customer needs. The company operates a 16-acre state-of-the-art manufacturing facility in Narasapura, Bengaluru, with an annual production capacity of 70,000 units. Numeros Motors has filed over 300 intellectual property rights across mobility and utility platforms, with 207 granted.

Numeros. Always Moving.
Website: https://numerosmotors.com/
Contact: 1800 309 9107

About Super Kings Academy

Super Kings Academy is a cricket coaching centre for boys and girls with state-of-the-art infrastructure and expert coaching. An initiative by Chennai Super Kings, the Super Kings Academy was launched in April 2022. Super Kings Academy has more than 40 centres operating across India, the USA, Australia and Canada.

Website: www.superkingsacademy.com

Contact: 7305322282

Antwerp Anchors, a franchise in the EUT20 Belgium Cricket League, today announced that former India fast bowling legend and World Cup winner.

Zaheer Khan has joined the club as a Co-Owner. One of the most celebrated left-arm pace bowlers of his generation, Zaheer brings to the Antwerp Anchors not only his iconic cricketing stature but a deep passion for growing the game in new markets — a mission central to the EUT20 league's founding vision.

Antwerp Anchors

The EUT20 Belgium Cricket League will be played from June 4 to 14 in Brussels, marking a historic milestone for cricket in continental Europe. The tournament brings together some of the most recognisable names in global T20 cricket, playing for franchise teams that represent Belgium's rich multicultural landscape.

Zaheer Khan will be formally introduced as Co-Owner and Partner of the Antwerp Anchors in all official league communications, marketing materials, and media engagements. His involvement extends beyond ceremonial — as a stakeholder, he will play an active role in shaping the franchise's cricketing identity and long-term direction.

Zaheer Khan Joins Antwerp Anchors as Co-Owner

“Europe is a big canvas for cricket, and I genuinely believe we are only at the beginning of what is possible here. Being a co-owner of the Antwerp Anchors is not just a business proposition — it is a chance to be part of building something meaningful from the ground up. What excites me most is the opportunity to find new talent across this continent and give those players the environment, the belief, and the platform to perform to their fullest potential. That has always been close to my heart. I look forward to being in Brussels in June and getting started,” Zaheer Khan, Co-Owner, Antwerp Anchors

Anchoring the Antwerp Anchors' playing lineup is a trio of global stars that underscores the franchise's ambition from day one.

Andre Russell — the explosive West Indian all-rounder and one of the most feared match-winners in T20 cricket worldwide — headlines the squad. Russell's ability to change the course of a game in a single over makes him arguably the most valuable T20 commodity in the world today.

“Having Zaheer Khan as a co-owner is the clearest possible signal of what the Antwerp Anchors stand for. He is a legend of the game, a proven winner, and someone who knows how to build for the long term. His involvement is not only a huge statement for the franchise, but also a powerful opportunity to support the growth of the European cricketing community and inspire the next generation of youth talent — a core pillar of Anchor. Add Andre Russell to that picture, and I believe every cricket fan in Europe will want to be watching us in Brussels this June,” Nagendra Siddoutam, Owner, Antwerp Anchors.

About the EUT20 Belgium Cricket League

The EUT20 Belgium Cricket League is part of the growing wave of T20 franchise cricket taking root across Europe. The league's inaugural edition will be played from June 4–14 in Brussels, featuring multiple franchise teams and a roster of international talent that reflects the global appeal of the shortest format of the game. Among the confirmed players across franchises for the tournament are David Warner, Alex Hales, Sam Billings, Saim Ayub, Maaz Sadaqat, Martin Guptill, Sakib Ul Hasan, Colin Munro, Wayne Parnell, Chris Lynn, Sandeep Lamichhane, Shoaib Malik, Deep Airee, and Rohit Paudel, among others — making this one of the most star-studded T20 leagues to debut in Europe.

About Antwerp Anchors

Antwerp Anchors is a franchise in the EUT20 Belgium Cricket League, owned and operated by Anchor Sports AB. The franchise is committed to building a world-class T20 cricket brand in Belgium and across European cricket's emerging landscape.

Deepika T C, captain of India’s Women’s Blind Cricket Team, receives a warm hometown welcome after leading India to the historic T20 World Cup victory

A former student at Ranga Rao Memorial School for Differently Abled in Mysuru, Deepika led Team India to an unbeaten run throughout the tournament, demonstrating exceptional leadership, talent and determination at a global level. Her interaction highlighted the importance of perseverance and access to inclusive educational spaces.

Deepika has always stood out as a bright student with a strong passion for sports. Her school years not only nurtured her academic excellence but also instilled in her the confidence to lead life independently. While her choice to pursue cricket may surprise some, her teachers recognized early on her determination and talent, making this step a natural progression in her journey.

At a special event organised following Deepika’s return at her home town, she spoke in detail about her journey starting from her early years at RMSD to leading the national side at a historic global tournament. She reflected on the challenges she overcame, the discipline and unity that defined the team’s campaign, and the pride of representing India in women’s cricket. Her address offered powerful insights into resilience, perseverance and the role of inclusive education in shaping her path.

Deepika T.C., Captain, Indian Women’s Blind Cricket Team, said, “This victory belongs to every girl who has ever been told that her limitations define her. It is proof that with the right support, opportunity and belief in themselves, any girl  can dream without boundaries and excel in their career path. The education and values I received from Ranga Rao Memorial School for Differently Abled have shaped me not just into a cricketer, but into a better human being. This win is for my country, and I will continue to give my best to make it proud.”

Mr. R Guru, Chairman, NR Foundation added, “Deepika’s achievement reflects the power of inclusive education and sustained mentorship. When students are given the right environment and encouragement, they are able to discover their strengths and pursue their aspirations with confidence. We are very proud to host Deepika in her hometown who we know will inspire million girls like her.”

Supported by the NR Foundation, RMSD has for over three decades empowered visually challenged girls from economically disadvantaged backgrounds through free residential education and vocational training. Deepika’s success is a moment of immense pride for the institution and reinforces RMSD’s commitment to enabling visually impaired girls to excel in all spheres, including sport at the highest international level.

The Downfall of Australian Stocks in White-ball Cricket

Drawing on elite-level experience and tactical expertise, Morgan examines key turning points, captaincy decisions, bowling strategies, and batting performances that shaped each contest. His analysis, as a Chief Cricket Analyst by Parimatch Sports, goes beyond the scoreboard, highlighting the strategic nuances, pressure moments, and individual brilliance that ultimately determined the outcomes.

Australia has struggled to win any ICC tournament since the 2023 ODI Cricket World Cup

1. Australia’s Transitional Phase in White-Ball Cricket

Australia’s campaign offered an interesting case study in squad evolution and tournament dynamics. After their triumph at the 2023 ODI World Cup, this T20 cycle represents a period of recalibration, particularly in leadership structure and role clarity.

An untimely injury to Mitchell Marsh meant early leadership adjustments were required, with Travis Head stepping in. Tournament cricket rarely allows much time for teams to settle, and small tactical moments — batting order flexibility, bowling matchups, and middle-over control — can significantly influence outcomes.

There were encouraging signs as well. Matt Renshaw’s composure on slower surfaces added variety to a predominantly right-handed batting lineup, offering balance in the middle overs. Meanwhile, Nathan Ellis continued to develop as a multi-phase bowler, operating effectively in powerplay, middle overs, and at the death — a skillset that is increasingly valuable in global tournaments.

Australia’s campaign may not have progressed as far as expected, but tournaments often accelerate learning cycles. With a blend of experience and emerging options, this period could prove foundational for the next ICC events.

2. India’s Clinical Tournament Management

India once again demonstrated why they remain one of the most complete white-ball sides in world cricket. What has stood out is not merely individual brilliance, but clarity in execution.

Their bowling units adapted impressively to varying conditions, particularly on slower surfaces where control through the middle overs became decisive. With experienced players anchoring innings and dynamic stroke-makers accelerating at the right moments, India have shown a strong understanding of tempo — a crucial T20 skill.

Perhaps most notably, their composure in high-pressure phases has allowed them to close out matches efficiently. In tournaments of this scale, game awareness often separates contenders from champions, and India have consistently displayed that awareness.

3. England’s Continued Tactical Evolution

England’s white-ball philosophy continues to evolve. Known for their aggressive batting blueprint, this tournament has also revealed subtle tactical refinements.

Their approach to powerplay batting remains assertive, yet there has been greater situational flexibility when early wickets fall. Additionally, England’s use of all-rounders provides depth that allows them to adjust bowling combinations depending on matchups.

In a format where momentum can shift quickly, England’s emphasis on adaptability — rather than rigid structure — has kept them competitive in varied conditions. It reflects the maturity of a side that understands tournament pacing.

4. The Impact of Spin and Middle-Overs Control

One of the defining tactical elements of this World Cup has been the influence of spin, particularly during middle overs on slower pitches.

Teams that have managed this phase effectively — whether through wrist spin variations or disciplined left-arm orthodox lines — have often dictated the game’s direction. Controlling scoring rates between overs 7 and 15 has proven just as important as explosive powerplay starts.

Batters capable of rotating strike against spin, rather than relying solely on boundary hitting, have gained increasing importance. The tournament has reinforced that T20 cricket is no longer just about power; it is equally about manipulation of angles, tempo, and field settings.

5. Emerging Players Seizing Opportunity

Every ICC tournament introduces new names to the global stage, and 2026 has been no different.

Across multiple teams, younger players have stepped into prominent roles — whether stabilising innings after early wickets or delivering decisive overs at critical junctures. These performances underline the growing depth in international cricket and the narrowing gap between traditional powerhouses and ambitious challengers.

The unpredictability of the format continues to reward fearless intent, but also tactical discipline — a combination that the next generation appears increasingly comfortable embracing.

Looking Ahead

If this tournament has highlighted anything, it is how quickly the white-ball landscape evolves. Teams are balancing experience with renewal, aggression with adaptability, and instinct with data-driven preparation.

For Australia, this represents a phase of refinement rather than regression. For India and England, it is about sustaining high standards in an increasingly competitive field. And for the broader cricketing world, it confirms that margins at the elite level are slimmer than ever.

As the knockout stages approach, strategy, composure, and clarity of roles will become even more decisive. The story of the 2026 T20 World Cup is still being written — and it continues to showcase the depth and dynamism of the modern game.

Contributed By- Eoin Morgan, Chief Cricket Analyst, Parimatch Sports

The tenth edition of the T20 World Cup has not disappointed the fans as several associate teams proved their worth in the group stages, and the Super Eight stage has also surprised at every juncture so far, with an unthinkable script in store for us for the semi-finals as well.

England became the first team to seal a semi-final spot, albeit the English team does need to fill a few holes if they want to lift the T20 World Cup for the third time. The likes of Jos Buttler and Tom Banton look short of runs, while Phil Salt and Jacob Bethell also need to improve their consistency with the bat in hand.

Apart from England, it’s a toss-up between New Zealand, Sri Lanka, and Pakistan, with the Kiwis seeming like the side which has the most potential to defeat opposition sides in their upcoming matches.

In the other group, South Africa and the West Indies are front-runners to make it to the semi-final, but one should never rule out a team like India, which can still work wonders and win both matches by a huge margin to reach the semi-final stage of the 2026 T20 World Cup.

Let’s have a look at the top five prominent names who could influence the semi-finals of the 2026 edition of the ICC T20 World Cup:

#5 Axar Patel (India)

Axar Patel will have to contribute as a genuine all-rounder in the 2026 ICC T20 World Cup

Axar Patel has emerged as one of the best all-rounders in T20 cricket over the last couple of years, and the fact that he was elevated to the vice-captain role in the Indian T20 team spoke loads about his pivotal contributions and current standing in the team.

In the 2024 T20 World Cup final, the Indian side was in a precarious position after three of their top four batters, Rohit Sharma, Rishabh Pant, and Suryakumar Yadav, had returned to the pavilion. At that moment, Patel stepped up and built a solid partnership with Virat Kohli, contributing 47 runs off 31 balls, which helped the Blues lift the trophy after 17 years.

India was in a similar position against South Africa in the Super Eight stage, but their vice-captain wasn’t able to bail them out as he was dropped by the team management on his home ground.

Axar’s return to the team in place of Rinku Singh or Washington Sundar could provide India a much-needed boost, which just might propel them into the semi-final if other results go their way.

#4 Lockie Ferguson (New Zealand)

Lockie Ferguson’s ability to strike crucial wickets in the powerplay overs has come to the fore, even on flat pitches of the M Chidambaram Stadium in Chennai. The fast bowler dismissed both in-form opening batters, Rahmanullah Gurbaz and Ibrahim Zadran, and also scalped the important wicket of the dangerous Quinton de Kock against South Africa.

Ferguson’s variations and the wily method of delivering both the new ball and the old ball would be crucial against Sri Lanka and England, as the pitches on offer in Colombo and Pallekele offer more assistance to fast bowlers compared to the pitches in Chennai and at the Narendra Modi Stadium in Ahmedabad.

The Kiwis’ first fixture in the Super Eight stage was abandoned due to rain, which would put more pressure on the side from down south to perform against hosts Sri Lanka and a formidable English side which has already sealed their berth in the semi-finals.

#3 Sherfane Rutherford (West Indies)

While skipper Shai Hope and Shimron Hetmyer have been in superb form at the top of the order, Sherfane Rutherford could be the X-factor for the Caribbean side when the big moment arrives for the West Indies.

Rutherford has hit 11 maximums in the ongoing T20 World Cup, the joint second-most as of statistics after the end of Zimbabwe vs West Indies where he hit 31 runs off 13 balls to help his side put up 254 runs on the board.

The southpaw has scored 157 runs at a strike rate of 189 and has been dismissed only once, in the first match against Scotland which even signifies that Rutherford could bat even higher but Darren Sammy might reserve him for death overs which has benefitted the team so far.

#2 Tristan Stubbs (South Africa)

Like Sherfane Rutherford, Tristan Stubbs has been the bonafide finisher for his side and has been dismissed only once in the tournament so far against Afghanistan. Even against the Afghans, Stubbs rose to the occassion in the Super Over battle smashing 10 runs when the Proteas needed 11 off 3 balls and then smashed a maximum in the second Super Over as well.

Tristan Stubbs has proven his mettle as a reliable finisher for South Africa alongside David Miller

The 2024 T20 World Cup runners-up would be hoping that the triumvirate of Dewlad Brevis, Stubbs, and Miller works wonder in the semi-final as well. Apart from his Super Over exploits, Stubbs also dominated against Canada with an unbeaten innings of 34 runs off 19 balls while his innings of 44 runs off 24 balls against India.

The Proteas would be relying on the brilliance of Stubbs and David Miller as the duo showcased in the Super Over against Afghanistan and also in the Super Eight stage fixture against India, where the likes of Varun Chakravarthy and Hardik Pandya had no answers to their destructive shot-hitting abilities.

#1 Sam Curran (England)

Sam Curran is the most proven all-round option and the third senior-most player of the team in terms of appearances for the national team amongst the current squad members. In the 2024 T20 World Cup, Curran failed to produce his best as he scalped only 3 wickets in 5 matches and bowled at an economy rate of almost 10, failing to complete his quota of overs in most fixtures.

While Curran has made some useful contributions with the bat in his hand in this edition, the left-arm seamer has proved to be indispensable due to his excellent death bowling skills and the ability to pick wickets with the new ball and in the middle overs as well.

When it seemed like Italy could run England close in the death overs, Curran produced his best with figures of 3/22 in three overs, scalping the crucial wicket of Grant Stewart, who was closing in on his half-century while playing at a strike rate of more than 200.

Similarly, when Nepal was cruising in the run-chase against the Englishmen, Curran dismissed the dangerous Dipendra Singh Airee and then defended 10 runs in the final over against a well-set Lokesh Bam as well to help his side make it to the Super Eight stage unscathed.

AUTHOR: Mohak Arora, Parimatch Sports analytics expert

Crompton collaborated with Dinesh Karthik

The association comes alive through a digital film and a series of contextual Instagram reels rolled out during the tournament. Developed in collaboration with Aflog’s creative studio and supported by AI-driven visual storytelling, the campaign draws a parallel between the evolution of the game and the evolution of how homes are lit today. At its core lies a clear message — lighting should do more than brighten a room. It should brighten the moment.

Dinesh Karthik is one of the most respected voices in cricket today, known for his composure and sharp match awareness. Hailing from Tamil Nadu, he shares a deep connect with audiences across South India, where cricket is passionately followed. His instinct for making the right call aligns naturally with Crompton’s ‘Bright & Right’ philosophy — choosing lighting that fits the purpose of each space and moment.

Through the Instagram reel series, released around key match days, Dinesh Karthik shares insights from the tournament while drawing natural parallels to his bright & right spaces at home. Just as a well-timed move can influence momentum on the field, the right lighting can elevate the experience of a space — bringing focus to a living room, clarity to a kitchen, or warmth to an outdoor gathering. The series of sub-films feature Dinesh Karthik announcing the “Crompton Player of the Game” after every Indian match during the tournament. The initiative celebrates standout performances on the field while reinforcing Crompton Lighting’s association with moments that truly light up the game.

Speaking about the campaign, Tanmay Prusty, Chief Marketing Officer – Crompton Greaves Consumer Electricals Ltd., said, “At Crompton, we believe lighting plays a defining role in shaping how people experience their homes. With ‘Every Space Bright & Right’, we are encouraging consumers to move beyond a one-size-fits-all approach and think more deliberately about how each space is lit. Dinesh embodies that mindset naturally. He is known for his clarity of thought, composure under pressure, and ability to make the right call at the right moment. A connoisseur of good design and a seeker of authentic partnerships, Dinesh Karthik brings both taste and thoughtful curation to this collaboration. His strong connect across South India, especially during a cricketing event of this scale, makes him an authentic voice for this campaign. Together, we are bringing a simple but important idea into everyday conversations — that the right light can meaningfully enhance how a space feels.”

Speaking about this collaboration, Dinesh Karthik said, “In cricket, the difference often lies in small decisions made at the right time. That mindset applies at home too. Lighting plays a bigger role than we realise — it can change the energy of a room instantly. Whether you’re watching a match, spending time with family, or relaxing at home in the evening, the right light makes that experience better. That’s what I found compelling about this campaign.”

Shot at his home, this collaboration culminates in a digital film that captures this evolution. The film opens with Dinesh Karthik reflecting on how the game has evolved over the years from being part of India’s historic win at the inaugural ICC Men's T20 World Cup in 2007 to the fast, high-intensity format fans enjoy today. He recalls returning home after that tournament and realising that the lighting in his space didn’t quite match the energy and excitement of the game. That realisation led him to rethink the way his home was lit, eventually turning to Crompton lighting to create the right ambience. As he walks through his home, each space reflects a different rhythm of the day - warm lighting elevates the match-viewing experience, crisp illumination enhances kitchen clarity, and thoughtfully placed outdoor lights create a relaxed evening ambience. The message comes together simply: as the game evolves, so should the way we light our homes.

With this next phase of ‘Every Space Bright & Right’, Crompton reinforces its leadership in lighting - offering solutions designed not just to illuminate homes, but to enhance how modern India lives in them.

Link to the Social Media Video – www.instagram.com/reel/DVfWzPJkiHy

About Crompton

With a brand legacy of over 85 years, Crompton Greaves Consumer Electricals Ltd. is India’s market leader in the category of fans and residential pumps. Over the years, the organization has continuously strived to produce a range of innovative products that cater to the modern consumer including superior quality and high-performance fans, pumps, lighting solutions, and a range of other categories like water heaters; air coolers; small kitchen appliances like mixer grinders, air fryers, OTG, electric kettles etc; other home appliances like irons & built-in kitchen appliances. The company has further invested in brand and innovation to not only better understand and meet consumer needs but to also help drive energy efficiency. The consumer business also has a well-established and organized distribution network driven by a strong dealer base across the country offering a wide service network and robust after-sales service to its customers. Beyond its consumer portfolio, Crompton also has a robust B2B presence in the Lighting segment, delivering advanced and energy-efficient solutions for commercial and industrial applications. In 2025, Crompton became the first lighting company to receive the GreenPro certification for its B2B lighting solution, reaffirming its commitment to sustainability and innovation. Strengthening its foothold in the renewable energy space, the company has forayed into solar rooftops—representing a significant step forward in its contribution to India’s evolving clean energy landscape. With solar solutions spanning lighting, pumps, and rooftops, Crompton continues to lead as a responsible and future-ready brand in sustainable energy.

The company's consistent dedication to developing energy-efficient products has led to significant recognition. It has been honored with three prestigious National Energy Consumer Awards (NECA) by BEE, Ministry of Power. The recent award was presented by the Hon’ble President of India, Smt. Droupadi Murmu for the company's storage water heater in 2023. In 2019, the brand won in two categories: Ceiling Fans and LED Bulbs. Additionally, it was recognized as one of India's Best Managed Companies 2022 by Deloitte Private and listed among ‘India’s Top 500 Companies 2022’ by Dun & Bradstreet India. The company has also been featured in Brand Top 75 most valuable Indian brands list for 2020 released by WPP and Kantar. Furthermore, Crompton was also recognized as the Brand of the Decade 2021 by Herald Global and BARC Asia in the Consumer Electrical category.

Ravindra Jadeja and Sanju Samson served their respective sides well over the last decade

Eoin Morgan, Chief Cricket Analysts Parimatch Sports

Eoin Morgan Shares Expert Insight on IPL 2026’s Biggest Trade Shock
The 2026 IPL mini-auction had a lot of surprises in store for the fans, but the biggest surprise was unfurled even before the auction started as the Rajasthan Royals decided to trade Sanju Samson for Ravindra Jadeja and Sam Curran from Chennai Super Kings, allowing all three players a new lease of life in the IPL.

Samson served as the skipper for the Royals for five years between 2021 and 2025, helping the inaugural IPL champions reach the final for the first time since 2008 in his second year of captaincy.

The right-handed top-order batter is also the all-time leading run-scorer for RR but the emergence of Vaibhav Sooryavanshi made the RR side very top-heavy with Samson, Yashasvi Jaiswal, Sooryavanshi, Dhruv Jurel, Riyan Parag, and Shimron Hetmyer vying for the top four spots in the batting order.

On the other hand, Ravindra Jadeja never finished as the highest run-scorer or the highest wicket-taker for the Super Kings in any single edition, but the all-rounder is the all-time leading wicket-taker for CSK in the IPL. Jadeja’s presence, along with Ravichandran Ashwin, would be highly missed as the Super Kings enter a new era with newer heroes on the horizon.

David Warner gives an insight into the biggest trade ahead of IPL 2026
If I look back on my IPL career, I represented two franchises, the Delhi Capitals and the Sunrisers Hyderabad, and returning to Delhi after playing for Sunrisers for 7 years was definitely a moment I looked forward to at that point of my career.

Ravindra Jadeja started his career with the Royals but went on to win three more titles with CSK, and it would definitely be an emotional moment for the all-rounder to return to his first franchise in the IPL.

On the other hand, Samson might be in need of a fresh challenge in the IPL, and once he’s relieved of the captaincy duties, he might even surpass the pedigree and potential we saw in Sanju during his time with the Royals.

Sanju Samson’s fresh opportunity at CSK
When Samson was appointed as the captain of the Royals in 2021, there were not many bonafide stars in the RR dressing room with Yashaswi Jaiswal and Riyan Parag still in their teenage while Shivam Dube and Glenn Phillips were not the finished elite T20 product in terms of finishing games and providing genuine all-round options.

Sanju took on that load of leading a young team and even qualified for the final of IPL 2022, 14 years after RR had made it to their last final. Despite his calibre and achievements, the Royals took the decision of trading Samson to improve their balance and offer more all-round options in the squad.

The wicket-keeper batter is fresh off a great T20 World Cup campaign where he wasn’t even part of the first-choice playing XI, but came in and helped India make it to the semi-final against all odds.

Ravindra Jadeja’s second homecoming at RR
Ravindra Jadeja is adored by the fans in Chennai as one of their own and is part of the greatest CSK team which achieved IPL, CLT20, and completely dominated the T20 franchise circuit for a couple of years.

But, after a couple of ordinary seasons, Jadeja would be looking forward to a change in scene as his skills and experience would be much more revered in the young RR setup where Kumar Sangakkara is back as the head coach and would be looking to get the best out of both Jadeja and Sam Curran.

Shane Warne and Ravindra Jadeja bowled in tandem for RR in 2009 and 2010
Jadeja’s rise as an all-round talent was well documented in his early years with RR with the legendary Shane Warne referring to him as ‘A Superstar in the Making’. After a gap of 15 years, the all-rounder is back where things started for him and alongside Curran, would allow the Royals to play a deeper batting line-up with more bowling options.

Eoin Morgan feels Sanju Samson is the perfect fit for CSK
If I look at this from a neutral lens, both teams have walked away with what they wanted, as Rajasthan Royals were short on all-rounders last season, while CSK lacked the firepower at the top, ultimately finishing with the wooden spoon in IPL 2025.

With MS Dhoni edging towards the last one or two years of his IPL career, and many reports suggesting that the 44-year old might feature as an impact player and not don the gloves, Sanju can step into Dhoni’s role with ease behind the stumps.

Apart from his excellent glove work, Dhoni is known for giving valuable inputs, which helped Ruturaj Gaikwad grow as a leader, and Samson, with his rich experience of leading RR and being part of India’s 2024 ICC T20 World Cup-winning squad, can offer similar inputs to Gaikwad, who will continue to lead CSK despite Samson’s arrival.

Prashant Veer and Kartik Sharma have been identified as Jadeja’s and Dhoni’s respective heirs in the lower middle order, along with the presence of Dewald Brevis and Shivam Dube, who complete CSK’s middle order.

Along with the upcoming prodigious talent Ayush Mhatre and skipper Gaikwad, Samson could be the perfect fit for CSK’s top order as the opening batter from Kerala is equally adept at playing seam and spin bowlers.

Sanju has learnt from the best, as he was often on the sidelines watching Rohit Sharma and Virat Kohli do their respective jobs with 100% precision. At RR, Sanju has also played under the captaincy of internationally acclaimed leaders like Steve Smith and Ajinkya Rahane, who are very tactically astute, and those learnings would certainly come in use in the near future when he would be one of the senior-most players in the CSK squad once Dhoni hangs up his boots.

Contributed by- David Warner, Brand Ambassador Parimatch Sports & Eoin Morgan, Chief Cricket Analysts  Parimatch Sports

The Maharashtra Tycoons became one of the most talked-about cricket teams in the tournament thanks to a strong international lineup. The squad included players whose careers have long become part of cricket history, such as Dinesh Karthik, Chris Gayle, Dale Steyn, Carlos Brathwaite, Stuart Binny, Shaun Marsh, Alastair Cook, Nathan Coulter-Nile, and Peter Siddle.

“We are proud to be the official partner of the Maharashtra Tycoons in the new season of WLPT20. Their professionalism, passion, and team spirit allowed them to celebrate every victory and face every defeat with dignity. They demonstrate true strength of character and determination—qualities that closely align with our brand,” said the Parimatch Sports Press Office.

The league format allowed these legends to step back onto the field, with skill, strategic thinking, and the will to win are just as important as the result. Subsequent matches highlighted the high level of competition.

“This season showed how important experience, trust within the team, and the willingness to fight until the end are. Playing alongside cricket legends and feeling the support of fans is what makes tournaments like this truly special,” commented Carlos Brathwaite, captain of the Maharashtra Tycoons.

Parimatch Sports’ partnership with the Maharashtra Tycoons emphasizes cricket as a spectacular experience where emotions, the will to win, and fan connection matter. This format combines sporting competition with entertainment, brings together multiple generations of fans, and creates powerful stories around the game. With Parimatch Sports, fans feel the synergy of moving forward and immerse themselves in an atmosphere full of love and passion for cricket, enjoying every moment of the season.

About Parimatch Sports
Parimatch Sports is a high-quality sportswear brand inspired by the world’s top athletes and designed to equip every brave soul on their winning track. Trusted by international stars like Trinidadian cricket legend Sunil Narine, Parimatch Sports creates professional on-field kits for football and cricket teams, including its partnership with the star cricket team Maharashtra Tycoons, alongside a comprehensive range of stylish workout wear for fans. The brand stands out with exclusive designs inspired by the greatest athletes and their victories on the pitch. Parimatch Sports aims to expand the horizons of Asia’s love for sports, bringing it to a new level.

Top 4 Must-Watch Group Stage Clashes at the 2026 ICC T20 World Cup: Zimbabwe vs Australia, Nepal vs England & More
 

Multiple associate nations that were not even given a slight chance by the cricketing pundits to even challenge the heavyweights ended up running them close in fixtures that were decided on the last ball or even knocking out former World Champions, as seen in Group B.
 

According to Parimatch Sports statistic, while no match saw the scoreboard touch the 200-run mark, the ongoing T20 World Cup is already being hailed as the best T20 World Cup in recent memory, with multiple associate nations proving their potential to perform at the biggest stage, re-sparking the conversations around more game time for players from associate nations against full-member teams.
 

Let’s have a look at the top four group stage matches of the 2026 edition of the ICC T20 World Cup, which made the fans bite off their nails:
 

P.S.: To maintain the sanctity of different groups and different conditions on offer, we have picked only one match from one group.
 

#4 Pakistan defeat Netherlands by 3 Wickets (Group A)

While the Netherlands openers did give their side a fast start, followed by useful contributions by Bas de Leede and Colin Ackermann, Mohammad Nawaz and Abrar Ahmed picked two wickets each to leave the Dutch side a bit short of finishers towards the end.
 

The Netherlands were somewhat in control at 127/4 and 25 balls still left in the innings when skipper Scott Edwards was dismissed after scoring 37 runs off 29 balls. In the 17th over, Saim Ayub dismissed both Logan van Beek and Zion Lion-Cachet, forcing Aryan Dutt to close out the innings with a quick cameo as Pakistan restricted their opposition to a total of 147 runs.
 

Chasing a modest target, Pakistan made a confident start as Ayub smashed 24 runs off 13 balls before falling to Dutt in the third over of the innings. Ayub’s opening partner, Sahibzada Farhan, kept the pressure on the opposition with a brilliant innings of 47 runs off 31 balls, before falling to Paul van Meekeren.
 

Farhan’s dismissal triggered a collapse for the Shaheens as the Men in Green found themselves at a score of 114/7 after being 98/2 in 11 overs. With the required rate mounting and no recognised batting partners left, Faheem Ashraf took it upon himself as the all-rounder smashed two fours and three sixes to take his team over the line in the last two overs.
 

#3 England defeat Nepal by 4 runs (Group C)

While Day 1 produced an unexpected nail-biter between the Netherlands and Pakistan, Day 2 was expected to serve more straightforward results. But, Nepal had other ideas as the Nepalese side had England reeling at 57/3 within 6 overs on a batting-friendly pitch with Jos Buttler, Phil Salt, and Tom Banton back in the hut.
 

A 71-run partnership between Jacob Bethell and skipper Harry Brook laid the platform for Will Jacks to fire away in the last two overs, helping the Englishmen post a total of 184 runs on the board with the Mumbai Indians all-rounder contributing 39 runs off 18 balls..
 

In reply, Kushal Bhurtel gave the perfect start for Nepal before being caught & bowled by Jacks, who once again proved to be pivotal for his side. After Bhurtel’s demise, Rohit Paudel and Dipendra Singh Airee took apart the English spinners, particularly targeting Adil Rashid as the two batters contributed 77 runs in eight overs.

Sam Curran’s experience and variations proved to be too much for the Nepalese batters
 

Airee was sent back to the pavilion by Sam Curran in the 15th over, while Paudel walked in the same direction in the next over after throwing his wicket away to Liam Dawson. Lokesh Bam brought the equation down to 24 runs required off 12 balls after it seemed like everything had been done in vain by the Nepalese batters.
 

Despite the presence of the in-form Lokesh on the crease, Sam Curran brought out his arsenal of variations in the 20th over and successfully closed out the game, winning the match for his side by 4 runs, giving away only 5 runs in the last over.
 

#2 Zimbabwe defeat Australia by 21 runs (Group B)

Zimbabwe walked into the encounter high on confidence after defeating Oman, but nobody could have even put a dollar on the Chevrons trumping the Kangaroos at the biggest stage in T20I cricket.
 

Brian Bennet anchored the innings for Zimbabwe from start to finish with a score of 64 runs off 56 balls, while Tadiwanashe Marumani and skipper Sikandar Raza contributed 35 and 25 runs respectively at strike rates of 166.67 and 192.31 respectively.
 

The Chevrons set a target of 170 runs but lost only two wickets, which signified that they could have mustered a few more runs if the batters had taken a few more risks. In fact, Raza’s maximum off the last ball of the 20th over was the first six of the innings by any Zimbabwe batter in the pivotal match.
 

Chasing a target of 170 runs at the R Premadasa Stadium in a day game could always prove tricky, and Raza’s men certainly made it tougher for a misfiring Australian top order. Blessing Muzarabani struck on his first ball as Josh Inglis returned to the pavilion and was soon followed by Cameron Green and Tim David, with both batters getting dismissed on a duck.
 

Stand-in skipper Travis Head soon chopped back onto his own stumps, leaving his side reeling at 29/4. Glenn Maxwell and Matt Renshaw stitched together a 77-run partnership which ultimately went in vain as the Kangaroos folded under pressure and were knocked out of the tournament after another defeat against Sri Lanka.
 

#1 South Africa defeat Afghanistan in Super Over 2 (Group D)

After Aiden Markram’s early dismissal, the southpaw pair of Quinton de Kock and Ryan Rickelton stitched together a century partnership with both de Kock and Rickelton scoring half-centuries and helping the Proteas reach the score of 111/1 by the end of the 11th over.
 

In the 13th over, Rashid Khan dismissed both de Kock and Rickelton, which helped the Afghans put a stop to the scoring rate as they conceded only 8 runs in the next two overs with two new batters arriving at the crease.
 

While Dewald Brevis and Tristan Stubbs fell to Azmatullah Omarzai in the 18th over, David Miller and Marco Jansen propelled the Proteas to a total of 187 runs by smashing 28 runs in the last two overs.
 

In reply, the Afghans had a dream start as they reached the 50-run mark by the end of the fourth over as Rahmanullah Gurbaz was smashing the ball all over the park while Ibrahim Zadran was seeing his eye in at the other end.
 

In the fifth over, Lungi Ngidi dismissed both Zadran and Gulbadin Naib while Sediq Atal was also dismissed on a duck in the next over by Kagiso Rabada, forcing the Afghans to consolidate first and accelerate later.
 

After the powerplay overs, Keshav Maharaj kept it tight from one end while Gurbaz kept targeting the spinners from the other end, with George Linde and Aiden Markram proving to be expensive.
 

Maharaj finally struck gold when Gurbaz was caught at short third man after smashing 84 runs off 42 balls, which included four fours and seven maximums. Darwish Razooli was run out in the same over, compounding the problems for Jonathan Trott’s men.
 

Leading by example, Rashid smashed 20 runs off 12 balls, and Noor Ahmad also contributed 15 runs off 8 balls as Rabada bowled two no balls in the last over, which gifted the game to the Afghans, but a stupid run-out forced the game into a Super Over.
 

Batting first, Afghanistan put 17 runs on the board with Omarzai smashing a maximum and two fours against the in-form Ngidi. While Brevis scored a maximum before getting dismissed, Stubbs scored a four and a six to take the match to a second Super Over.

Rahmanullah Gurbaz gave it his all against South Africa, but his innings went in vain
 

Batting first, South Africa had Stubbs and Miller in the middle yet again, and while the right-hander scored a maximum yet again, the southpaw scored two sixes to set a target of 24 runs.
 

Surprisingly, Maharaj was given the ball to defend 23 runs while Mohammad Nabi also walked out to bat instead of Gurbaz. The move didn’t work out as Nabi got out and wasted two deliveries before Gurbaz smashed three maximums, but failed to score a fourth consecutive six, which could have been a fairytale for Afghanistan Cricket.
 

While Gurbaz failed to take his side over the line, the wicket-keeper batter ensured that every neutral had a great time and left with memories of witnessing the best ever T20I match.
 

Honorable Mentions: Sri Lanka vs Australia, Italy vs Nepal, Zimbabwe vs Sri Lanka

Contributed by Mohak Arora, Parimatch Sports analytics expert

Eoin Morgan joins Parimatch as its Chief Cricket Analyst

Eoin Morgan is one of the most influential players in modern cricket and a true leader. He led England to the Cricket World Cup Final in India and captained the England India Premier League team to finals appearances. A double World Cup winner, he guided England to the 2019 World Cup triumph and was part of the 2010 World Cup winning squad. His approach has set new standards for teams and inspired the next generation of players.

Eoin has built a powerful personal brand across the subcontinent, where he is a household name thanks to his prominent roles as both a host and commentator on multiple leading TV networks, including Star Sports and Sports18.

“I’m proud to join Parimatch as Chief Cricket Analyst. I will bring my experience at the top of the game and will share insights, tactical views, and commentary that give fans an insider perspective on the Cricket World Cup and the India Premier League. I look forward to engaging with the community, answering questions, and helping audiences see the strategies, decisions, and moments that make this sport extraordinary,” said Eoin Morgan.

“Eoin Morgan is one of the most renowned figures in cricket today. His professionalism and charisma make him an ideal partner for Parimatch. We are very excited for the upcoming cricket season, where devoted followers will be able to get closer to his perspective on the game and witness a player who has shaped cricket,” commented the Parimatch Press Office.

Fans will have the chance to participate in live discussions, ask questions, and explore the game from a player’s perspective, connecting directly with the excitement of top-level cricket. The cricket community can follow Eoin on Parimatch’ social media for expert takes, match insights, and behind-the-scenes moments during the Cricket World Cup and the Indian Premier League season. Together, they celebrate the spirit of cricket while giving fans a front-row seat to the action and the minds behind the game.

Sting® Energy, PepsiCo India’s high-voltage energy drink, today unveiled the next chapter of its sonic brand universe — transforming every Six into a signature ‘STIINNGGG’ moment. Building on its growing cultural presence, Sting® Energy enters the season with a bold ambition: to own the sound of every Six. Because when the ball clears the boundary, not every boundary is the same, not every Six is the same. This nationwide campaign positions Sting® Energy at the center of cricket’s most energetic moments with Sting® Energy sonic becoming the qualifier to define every Six shot.

Cricket legends Yuvraj Singh and Ravi Shastri bring to life the latest Sting® Energy

The campaign’s centerpiece is a high-energy film featuring cricket legends Yuvraj Singh and Ravi Shastri. Set on a cricket ground charged with nostalgia and flair; the film opens with playful banter and escalates into a power-packed sequence of towering Sixes. With every smasher Six, Yuvraj reveals to the audience that longer the Six, louder the ‘STIINNGGG’ signature sonic.

Campaign Film: https://youtu.be/YtH-MYeXp6Y

Responding in his unmistakable flair, Shastri calls out the evolving energy of every strike, building the drama and proving that no Sixes sound or feel the same. With every hit, Ravi’s commentary ranges from ‘STINNNNNGGGG’ to ‘STIINNGGG’ to ‘STINGGGGGG’, proving that every moment carries its own.

Together, the dynamic duo brings Sting® Energy’s sonic world to life, showing how the ‘STIINNGGG’ stretches, builds and intensifies with every unique towering hit. By the final strike, it is no longer just a sound effect; it becomes the pulse of the moment, reinforcing Sting® Energy as the unmistakable sound of cricket’s peak energy moments.

Commenting on the announcement, Diksha Bajaj, Category Head - Energy Portfolio, PepsiCo India, said, “Cricket is one of the biggest passion points in this country, with the Sixes making for peak energy moments. Our campaign is rooted in the insight that no two sixes are ever the same. Every Six is different in its energy; so, we set out to bring the distinct Sting® sonic identity as a qualifier that redefines every Six. This cricket season, longer the six, louder the ‘STIINNGGG’. So, when you hear a Six, you either go it is a ‘STINNNNNNGGGGG’ Six or a ‘STINGGGG’ Six? We are thrilled to bring this campaign to life with standout cricket icons, Yuvraj Singh and Ravi Shastri, who have brought the right energy to make it a 'STIINNNGGG' energy season enjoyed by fans.”

Yuvraj Singh, on the campaign, “Cricket has always been about big moments and big energy for me, and nothing captures that like a Six. What I love about this campaign is how Sting® Energy has turned that feeling into something fans can actually hear and celebrate together. It’s bold, it’s disruptive and it matches the intensity the game deserves. I look forward to be associated with a brand like Sting Energy® that has built a strong connection with today’s youth culture and brings a unique perspective to everything it does.”

Ravi Shastri, on the campaign, “For me, commentary on a Six has always been the most exhilarating part of the game. It’s that split second where the energy shifts rapidly as we race to describe the shot, its length, its power to the listeners. This campaign takes that passion and gives it a whole new dimension by adding a distinct sonic. The idea of owning the sound of every Six is powerful and instantly relatable for cricket fans. I’m thrilled to be part of a campaign with Sting® Energy that celebrates the drama, volume and pure of the sport.”

Vikram Pandey, Chief Creative Officer Leo - South Asia, shared, “To truly bring alive the energy of a six, we gave every six its own ‘STIINNGGG’. And what better way to recreate this than with Yuvraj Singh, the iconic smasher of sixes, paired with Ravi Shastri’s legendary commentary, allowing us to relive most energetic cricketing moments through a fresh, sonic lens.”

The campaign will be rolled out across television, digital and social platforms, aimed at connecting with young audiences who live life at full charge and thrive on energy, passion, and drive.

Creative Agency: Leo India

Raj Deepak Das - Chief Creative Officer - Publicis Groupe South Asia and Chairman - Leo Burnett South Asia

Amitesh Rao - Chief Executive Officer - Leo South Asia

Vikram Pandey - Co-Chief Creative Officer

Anirban Roy - Chief Strategy Officer

Jaikrit Singh Rathore - Managing Partner - Delhi

Shreekant Srinivasan - Executive Vice President

Sakshi Chawla - Vice President

Saarthak Dutt - Executive Creative Director

Hardik Trivedi - Associate Executive Creative Director

Umang Puri - Senior Creative Director

Naman Gera - Brand Services Director

Tushar Verma - Senior Art Director

Manasvi Pandit - Senior Art Director

Mahima Lakhotia - Brand Services Associate

Purahan Bisht - Copywriter

About Pepsico

PepsiCo products are enjoyed by consumers more than one billion times a day in more than 200 countries and territories around the world. PepsiCo generated nearly $92 billion in net revenue in 2024, driven by a complementary beverage and convenient foods portfolio that includes Lay’s®, Doritos®, Cheetos®, Gatorade®, Pepsi-Cola®, Mountain Dew®, Quaker®, and SodaStream®. PepsiCo’s product portfolio includes a wide range of enjoyable foods and beverages, including many iconic brands that generate more than $1 billion each in estimated annual retail sales.

Guiding PepsiCo is our vision to Be the Global Leader in Beverages and Convenient Foods by Winning with pep+ (PepsiCo Positive). pep+ is our strategic end-to-end transformation that puts sustainability and human capital at the center of how we will create value and growth by operating within planetary boundaries and inspiring positive change for planet and people.

For more information, visit www.pepsico.com, and follow on X (Twitter), Instagram, Facebook, and LinkedIn @PepsiCo.

Dr. Payal Kanodia, Chairperson and Trustee of M3M Foundation, distributes sports kits to children in Gurugram ahead of the IUKL Championship

The Lift for Life initiative focuses on expanding access to kettlebell sport because of its fitness-intensive training approach, which builds both physical strength and mental resilience. Through structured coaching, equipment support, and competitive exposure, the programme aims to nurture discipline, confidence, and international-level performance among young athletes. As part of its broader outreach, the initiative is also supporting children of migrant labourers in Delhi NCR, providing them with access to structured fitness training and sporting opportunities.

The ceremony was attended by senior representatives from Shri Saibaba Sansthan Trust (SSST), including CEO Mr. Goraksha Gadilkar, Administrative Officer Mr. Atul Wagh, Principal Dr. Santosh Audate, Sports Director Dr. Vikram Satpute, and sports teachers Mr. Babar, Mr. Shelke, and Mr. Chande. Representing M3M Foundation was Dr. Aishwarya Mahajan, Managing Trustee and President, while KSIA was represented by Joint Secretary Ms. Anshu Taravath and international athlete Ms. Vandita Verma.

Under the leadership of Dr. Payal Kanodia, Chairperson and Trustee of M3M Foundation and an international athlete herself, the initiative reflects a strong vision to accelerate the growth of kettlebell sport in India, build one of the country’s largest youth teams, and enhance India’s presence on the global sporting stage.

Dr. Payal Kanodia, led the distribution of sports kits in Gurugram also, encouraging young athletes and reinforcing the Foundation’s commitment to nurturing grassroots sporting talent through direct engagement and motivation.

M3M Foundation, SSST, and KSIA have jointly selected talented U-16 and U-18 athletes who will represent Team India at the upcoming Youth World Championship. The selections were based on consistent training, dedication, and performance during the monthly KSIA training camps conducted at SSST College, Shirdi.

Congratulating the selected athletes, SSST CEO Mr. Goraksha Gadilkar expressed his appreciation to M3M Foundation and Dr. Aishwarya Mahajan for facilitating competitive gear and support, enabling the young players to compete at the highest international standards. Addressing the athletes, Dr. Aishwarya Mahajan encouraged them to train with sincerity, discipline, and determination, and shared her vision of SSST College emerging as a future hub of kettlebell sport, hosting one of the largest youth teams under KSIA.

As part of the ceremony, Ms. Anshu Taravath and Ms. Vandita Verma demonstrated the sport lifts with precision and confidence, inspiring a strong contingent of more than 50 young athletes. This marked the first batch of a rapidly growing youth movement in kettlebell sport at the institution.

KSIA continues its nationwide efforts to promote kettlebell sport across all age groups. In a landmark development, India is set to host the IUKL World Championship in New Delhi in October 2026, expected to be one of the country’s most prestigious strength sport events.

This initiative is not just about distributing sports kits; it represents a larger commitment to building champions, nurturing discipline, and creating pathways for young athletes to excel. Through “Lift for Life – From Kettlebell to Confidence,” M3M Foundation, KSIA, and SSST are working together to strengthen the ecosystem of kettlebell sport in India and empower the next generation of athletes to compete with confidence on the global stage.
 

About M3M Foundation
M3M Foundation is the philanthropic arm of the M3M Group, working across education, health, livelihoods, sports, and environment. With a reach across 22 states and over 1,300 villages, the Foundation has positively impacted more than 5 million lives, driven by a vision of inclusive, sustainable, and transformative nation-building.

Top 4 Favourite Win T20 World Cup 2026- South Africa, India, Afghanistan, England, and more…

A total of 20 participating teams would be competing in the upcoming tournament, with each team playing a minimum of four group stage matches. Group A contains favorites India, along with arch-rivals Pakistan, the USA, Namibia, and the Netherlands.

Group B is headlined by previous winners Sri Lanka and Australia, with Ireland, Zimbabwe, and Oman making up the rest of the group. Group C features England, West Indies, Scotland, Nepal, and Italy, with three European teams finding themselves in the same group after Bangladesh’s withdrawal from the tournament.

Group D could prove to be the Group of Death as it boasts of 2024 edition runners-up South Africa, 2021 edition runners-up New Zealand, Afghanistan, Canada, and the UAE, with one of the three big-name teams a definite to crash out from the group stage.

Apart from co-hosts India, many teams would be hoping to lift the trophy and prove their credentials in the shortest format of the game. While New Zealand have lost both of the matches so far in the 5-match T20I series against India, the Black Caps could provide a formidable challenge and have a plethora of spin options which could come in handy on the surfaces of Colombo and Chennai.

Another team from down under, Australia are placed alongside Sri Lanka in Group B and the Kangaroos are packed with power from top to bottom, with skipper Mitchell Marsh, Travis Head, Glenn Maxwell, Tim David, and Marcus Stonis providing an enviable batting lineup. The presence of Cooper Connolly, Matt Short, and Maxwell, along with lead spinner Adam Zampa, would keep the 2021 T20 World Cup champions in good stead in the subcontinent.

Let’s have a look at the top four favorites to lift the trophy in the 2026 edition of the ICC T20 World Cup as the T20 extravaganza returns to India after a gap of 10 years:

#4 Afghanistan
Rashid Khan is the heart of the Afghanistan team and would be eyeing the trophy in 2026

The Afghans are the dark horses in a multi-lateral tournament yet again, as Rashid Khan and co. have had a disappointing time since the conclusion of the last edition of the T20 World Cup. Afghanistan has only defeated Zimbabwe, Qatar, and the West Indies in the last 18 months, but Rashid’s men have pressed the accelerator at the right time with the T20 World Cup less than a fortnight away.

Placed alongside New Zealand and South Africa in Group D, Afghanistan has the potential to knock out one of the juggernauts of international cricket in the group stage. The Afghans had a memorable campaign in the 2024 ICC T20 World Cup as they eliminated Australia from the Super Eight stage, exacting revenge for the 2023 ICC Cricket World Cup heartbreak.

The legendary spin quartet of skipper Rashid, Mujeeb Ur Rahman, Noor Ahmad, and Mohammad Nabi is arguably the best spin contingent amongst the 20 teams, and the quartet would love the opportunity of bowling on Chennai and Colombo’s spin-friendly pitches.

Full Squad: Rashid Khan ©, Noor Ahmad, Abdullah Ahmadzai, Sediqullah Atal, Fazalhaq Farooqi, Rahmanullah Gurbaz (wk), Naveen Ul Haq, Mohammad Ishaq (wk), Shahidullah Kamal, Mohammad Nabi, Gulbadin Naib, Azmatullah Omarzai, Mujeeb Ur Rahman, Darwish Rasooli, Ibrahim Zadran

#3 England
Group C favorites England will kick off their 2026 T20 World Cup campaign against Nepal, and Brendon McCullum will have a point to prove after the 4-1 drubbing in the Ashes at the hands of arch-rivals Australia. Harry Brook will be captaining the Three Lions for the first time in an ICC tournament, and all eyes will be on how England lines up with Jos Buttler set to take the No.3 spot in the batting line-up.

The 2022 T20 World Cup champions endured a tough time in the last edition as they lost to Australia, South Africa, and eventually to champions India in the semi-final, while rain protected them from a potential loss against neighbors Scotland in the group stage as well.

The spin quintet of Adil Rashid, Rehan Ahmed, Jacob Bethell, Will Jacks, and Liam Dawson signifies a change in direction for the English side, who have usually been packed with out-and-out fast bowlers in recent editions.

Full Squad: Harry Brook ©, Rehan Ahmed, Jofra Archer, Tom Banton, Jacob Bethell, Jos Buttler (wk), Sam Curran, Liam Dawson, Ben Duckett, Will Jacks, Jamie Overton, Adil Rashid, Phil Salt (wk), Josh Tongue, Luke Wood

#2 South Africa
Runner-ups of the last edition of the ICC T20 World Cup, South Africa finally ended their hoodoo and took off the chokers tag when they lifted the 2025 ICC World Test Championship Mace by defeating Australia in the final at Lord’s.

Skipper Aiden Markram, Quinton de Kock, Dewald Brevis, and David Miller make up a batting order which is well-versed with Indian pitches, while the star-studded pace quartet of Anrich Nortje, Kagiso Rabada, Lungi Ngidi, and Marco Jansen would be supported by the spin duo of Keshav Maharaj and George Linde.

Heinrich Klassen and David Miller almost took South Africa over the line in 2024 T20 WC Final

In the wake of the recently concluded SA20 season, the Proteas have lost a few players to injuries, as Tristan Stubbs and Ryan Rickleton finally found their respective places in the squad after Donovan Ferreira and Tony de Zorzi were ruled out of the T20 World Cup. The inclusions of Stubbs and Rickleton could prove to be a blessing in disguise as both players are well-versed with the Indian conditions after representing Delhi Capitals and Mumbai Indians, respectively.

Full Squad: Aiden Markram ©, Corbin Bosch, Dewald Brevis, Quinton de Kock (wk), Marco Jansen, George Linde, Keshav Maharaj, Kwena Maphaka, David Miller, Lungi Ngidi, Anrich Nortje, Kagiso Rabada, Ryan Rickelton (wk), Jason Smith, Tristan Stubbs

#1 India 
Defending champions and currently ranked No.1 in the ICC T20I Team rankings, India would bear the load of more than a billion fans yet again in home conditions. While the support of fans could prove to be a boost, as seen in 2011, 2015, and 2019 editions of the Cricket World Cup, none of the previous nine editions of the T20 World Cup, barring the 2012 T20 WC, have even seen the hosts qualify for the final, let alone lift the cup in home conditions.

Gautam Gambhir will once again be under the scanner despite the proven performances of his side in the T20 format, owing to Indian team’s poor run in ODIs and Tests. Suryakumar Yadav broke his 468-day jinx of not scoring a half-century in Indian colors, getting to the landmark in mere 23 deliveries in the second T20I of the 5-match T20 series against New Zealand.

After winning the 2024 ICC T20 World Cup, India head into the 2026 edition of the tournament as firm favorites, after winning 8 consecutive bilateral series and one multi-lateral tournament, the 2025 Asia Cup.

Full Squad: Abhishek Sharma, Sanju Samson (wk), Ishan Kishan (wk), Tilak Varma, Suryakumar Yadav ©, Shivam Dube, Hardik Pandya, Rinku Singh, Axar Patel (vc), Washington Sundar, Harshit Rana, Arshdeep Singh, Varun Chakravarthy, Jasprit Bumrah, Kuldeep Yadav.

Contributed By- Mohak Arora, Parimatch Sports analytics expert

Parimatch Sports, a premium sportswear brand inspired by top athletes, gave a group of Indian influencers and passionate Manchester United supporters the opportunity to win a special fan experience with the club. From January 30 to February 2, Rajat Pawar, Apoorva Jadaun, Gurdeep Rai, and Nita Shilimkar travelled to Manchester to immerse themselves in the club’s world.

Parimatch Sports and Manchester United Hosted Indian Influencers

“Being inside the club’s environment felt unreal. It was about stepping into the world of the team, feeling the atmosphere, and understanding what it truly means to be part of Manchester United. Thanks to Parimatch Sports, we were able to experience it all up close,” said Gurdeep Rai.

Inside Carrington: Where Champions Are Made

On the first day, the group visited the Carrington training ground—the very place where champions are made and the foundation for their future victories is laid.

The influencers watched the training session a day before the match, met the players, and got autographs. They felt every moment of preparation—an experience usually inaccessible to the public, but made possible by Parimatch Sports.

Next, they visited Old Trafford—Manchester United’s home and a place of inspiration for millions of fans worldwide. A private tour of the stadium and museum with club legend Denis Irwin offered a deeper understanding of the club’s history, trophies, and defining moments.

Dinner at Dishoom Manchester was filled with conversations about the experiences and encounters with football icons, leaving them part of something truly extraordinary.

Match Day Energy

On the second day, the influencers took part in the highlight of the trip—the Manchester United vs Fulham match. The stadium’s atmosphere gradually filled with anticipation, the stands came alive, and tension was tangible before kickoff.

From the VIP box, every goal felt closer, and the stadium’s energy hit even harder. The game was fast-paced and intense, culminating in a spectacular 3:2 victory for Manchester United. Moments like these ​​show how Parimatch Sports brings fans closer to the heart of football.

More Than a Trip

The collaboration with Manchester United marks one of many high-profile international initiatives delivered by Parimatch Sports. The brand successfully continues to strengthen its global presence and build deep connections with sports audiences around the world.

“Experiences like this highlight the special bond with our global fan community. Together with Manchester United, we were pleased to welcome the influencers from India and give them a meaningful insight into life at the club,” highlighted a Parimatch Sports Press Office.

About Parimatch Sports

Parimatch Sports is a high-quality sportswear brand inspired by the world’s top athletes and designed to equip every brave soul on their winning track. Trusted by international stars like Trinidadian cricket legend Sunil Narine, Parimatch Sports creates professional on-field kits for football and cricket teams alongside a comprehensive range of stylish workout wear for fans. The brand stands out with exclusive designs inspired by the greatest athletes and their victories on the pitch. Parimatch Sports aims to expand the horizons of Asia’s love for sports, bringing it to a new level.

Milind Soman to run Kerala’s Hill Highway on February 22nd

The run will take place on the Kuttikkanam - Kattappana stretch of the Idukki Hill Highway. Built by the Government of Kerala and funded by the Kerala Infrastructure Investment Fund Board (KIIFB) at an approximate cost of Rs. 134.4 Crore, this segment is a masterclass in modern construction. Once a rugged ghat road, its transformation into a high-standard highway is a highly acclaimed achievement of the current Government under Chief Minister Mr. Pinarayi Vijayan.

Kerala, "God’s Own Country," is a land of vivid geography—from backwaters to the towering Western Ghats. The Hill Highway was built with the dual purpose of promoting hill tourism and providing vital connectivity for high-range residents to the mainland. The Hill Highway Run aims to focus global attention on this infrastructure development, offering stunning views of tea estates, dense forests, and lush valleys.

The announcement video ‘Ennal Vaa..’ which means - “Come, Then…” by Milind has gone viral, captivating the global Malayali diaspora and sparking a wave of pride worldwide. For Milind, the sight of these roads winding through the mist-laden peaks of Idukki was a moment of pure excitement.

"When I saw those reels of the Idukki Hill Highway, the first thing that came to mind was a 'Wah!' The roads looked so smooth and fluid that the tune 'Hawa Ke Saath Saath' just started playing in my head—it’s that exact feeling of gliding with the wind. 'Ennal Vaa' is like calling out to a friend to come and share the journey with you. It’s pure Kerala hospitality," said Milind.

Joining the movement is Dr. K.M. Abraham (Retd. IAS), CEO of KIIFB and a seasoned endurance athlete who has completed the prestigious London and Mumbai Marathons. He noted that the Hill Highway is designed as a lifestyle asset for the state.

"At KIIFB, we are building infrastructure that elevates the quality of life. The 1,332-kilometer Hill Highway, stretching from Kasaragod to Thiruvananthapuram, is a testament to sustainable engineering. By using advanced and eco-friendly FDR (Full Depth Reclamation) technology, KIIFB has ensured that these roads are not just built to last, but are also resilient enough to withstand the toughest natural challenges," Dr. Abraham stated.

The Kerala Infrastructure Investment Fund Board (KIIFB) is the principal financial arm of the Government of Kerala, established to mobilize funds for large-scale, critical infrastructure. To date, KIIFB has undertaken over 1,200 projects with a total investment value of Rs. 1.10 Lakh Crore, fundamentally transforming the state's infrastructure landscape.

Registration and Event Details: A diverse group of marathon enthusiasts, sports councils, and professional athletes from across the country are set to join Milind Soman for the run, which will be flagged off at 7:00 AM on February 22. Interested participants can register through the official KIIFB website at gis.kiifb.org/hhr/index.php or via the KIIFB WhatsApp Bot (+91 9072000430).

KIIFB’s Official Website Link: www.kiifb.org.

T20 World Cup 2026: Defending Champions India Favoured at Home

After winning the 2024 T20 World Cup held in the USA and the West Indies, India bid adieu to Rohit Sharma, Virat Kohli, and Ravindra Jadeja as the experienced trio walked away from the shortest format of the game at the international stage.

With Gautam Gambhir taking charge of the Men in Blue, Suryakumar Yadav was appointed as the captain of the Indian team in T20Is, as Abhishek Sharma, Tilak Varma, and Varun Chakravarthy stamped themselves as ever-presents for India.

The Suryakumar-led side has since then grown leaps and bounds as India has solidified their spot at the top of the ICC T20I rankings. Abhishek and Tilak have grasped two of the top three spots in the batters’ rankings, while Varun Chakravarthy is ruling the roost in the bowlers’ list.

Placed in Group A alongside arch-rivals Pakistan, the USA, Namibia, and the Netherlands, the Men in Blue should be one of the favorites to reach the Super Eight stage. Let’s have a look at how India heads into the tournament and whether their preparations are up to the mark as they will be defending the coveted trophy in front of their fans:

India’s record since the 2024 T20 World Cup Triumph
Indian cricket fans would have expected a topsy-turvy start to their new era, but Gambhir and Suryakumar have quashed their doubters by winning every T20I series in the build-up to the 2026 ICC T20 World Cup.

Suryakumar kicked off his captaincy era with a bang against Sri Lanka and Bangladesh as the Men in Blue clean-swept both of their neighbors. While India won all three matches against Sri Lanka, including a win in the Super Over, the Men in Blue completely annihilated Bangladesh in all three fixtures, especially the 133-run win in the dead rubber, courtesy of a Sanju Samson century.

While India got off to a good start to the Suryakumar era, their real test was yet to come as Gambhir’s men travelled to the rainbow nation to face South Africa for a 4-match T20I series. 

Both Samson and Tilak scored two centuries each to help India register a 3-1 win in the series, where they were expected to be heavily challenged by the Proteas. Chakravarthy scalped 12 wickets in 4 matches, including a 5-wicket haul in the only match India lost, as the seamers failed to support the spinners on a sluggish surface.

England then toured India in January 2025, and the Men in Blue were clinical yet again, winning the series 4-1. After India had already wrapped up the series 3-1, Abhishek Sharma’s blitz of 135 runs off 54 balls helped India win the dead rubber by an emphatic margin of 150 runs.

After winning the England series, India’s next T20I assignment came in September as the Men in Blue won the Asia Cup, defeating arch-rivals Pakistan thrice in a span of two weeks to lift the coveted trophy.

After winning the Asia Cup, the Men in Blue went down under and defeated Australia in their own backyard, followed by a 3-1 win against South Africa at home and are now on course to win the New Zealand series as well, which is the last stop on the road to the 2026 ICC T20 World Cup.

Squad
Abhishek Sharma, Sanju Samson (wk), Ishan Kishan (wk), Tilak Varma, Suryakumar Yadav ©, Shivam Dube, Hardik Pandya, Rinku Singh, Axar Patel (vc), Washington Sundar, Harshit Rana, Arshdeep Singh, Varun Chakravarthy, Jasprit Bumrah, Kuldeep Yadav.

Key Players for India
The Men in Blue have the privilege of the playing XI being packed with a plethora of match-winners, with the likes of Shreyas Iyer and Kuldeep Yadav failing to break into the playing XI.

#1 Abhishek Sharma
The left-hand batter is mentored by Yuvraj Singh, the hero of India’s 2007 ICC T20 World Cup and 2011 ICC Cricket World Cup triumphs. It would be fair to say that Abhishek Sharma has emerged as the most prominent player in the last two years, smashing 1199 runs at a strike rate of more than 190. 

The ability to smack the ball out of the ground, maximum after maximum, has hurt opposition sides in the last two years, showcased by Abhishek’s stats of 2 centuries and 7 half-centuries. When we look at Sharma’s numbers in India, the average and strike rate both improve massively as the southpaw has scored 501 runs in 13 innings at a strike rate of 206.17.

#2 Hardik Pandya
Hardik Pandya is the most experienced T20I player in the side.

The vice-captain of the Indian team in the 2024 ICC T20 World Cup triumph was arguably left high and dry as the captaincy armband was passed on from Rohit Sharma to Suryakumar Yadav after Gambhir’s appointment. Nonetheless, Hardik Pandya has proved to be undroppable with his crucial ability to score runs at a fast pace in the middle overs and often provides the finishing touches as well. 

Pandya enjoyed a memorable 2024 year in T20I cricket and has often been deployed as the second seamer in the run-in to the 2026 T20 World Cup. The all-rounder’s capabilities of taking the new ball and swinging it both ways has often proven to be a masterstroke, especially against left-hander opening batters.

#3 Varun Chakravarthy
Varun Chakravarthy was made the scapegoat of the embarrassment handed to India in the 2021 ICC T20 World Cup as the Kolkata Knight Riders’ mystery spinner failed to adjust to the pitches on offer in the United Arab Emirates. 

Since then, the former architect has developed a couple of new variations in his mystery spin bowling and has also improved the fielding and batting aspects of the game, becoming more than a single-trick pony as he was often called back in 2021.

The spinner has scalped 55 wickets in 28 matches since the end of the 2024 T20 World Cup at a brilliant average of less than 13. The KKR spinner would be ready to unleash havoc with India playing its matches across the spin-friendly pitches of Colombo and Chennai, while bowling in Mumbai or Delhi could prove to be a challenge for the No. 1-ranked bowler in T20Is.

Predicted Playing XI
India: Abhishek Sharma, Sanju Samson (wk), Tilak Varma/Shreyas Iyer, Suryakumar Yadav ©, Shivam Dube, Hardik Pandya, Rinku Singh, Axar Patel, Arshdeep Singh, Varun Chakravarthy, Jasprit Bumrah.

Contributed by-  Mohak Arora, Parimatch Sports analytics expert

Guinness Malaysia, the official beer of the Premier League, has opened its doors to Guinness Clubhouse, a first-of-its-kind football-themed stay in Kuala Lumpur
 

Introduced by Guinness, the official beer of the Premier League, Guinness Clubhouse is a football-themed experience created earlier this season to bring fans together around the rituals of matchday, not in a stadium or a pub, but in a shared, home-style setting designed for watching the game together when most places have closed.

Set to run through February 2026, Guinness Clubhouse reflects a broader shift in how football is experienced globally, particularly in countries where fans follow the game across time zones. Since its launch in November 2025, every weekend match night has been fully booked until February, highlighting strong demand for shared matchday experiences built around atmosphere, connection, and togetherness.

Inside Guinness Clubhouse

Set across three immersive storeys, Guinness Clubhouse brings together the worlds of football and Guinness under one roof. From hardcore fans and those cheering on their favourite teams, to friends simply looking for a good night in, every corner is designed to feel like a match night worth staying in for, with football-themed activities, bold Guinness touches, and plenty of moments built to be shared.
 

Guests who book a night at Guinness Clubhouse can look forward to:

• Catch LIVE Premier League matches on a giant projector with surround sound recreating the atmosphere of a football stadium right in the living room. Perfect for those who live for the game.

• Share a bite or two from the fully stocked kitchen and pantry, featuring Guinness-infused snacks and match-night essentials, made for the ones who come for the snacks.

• Settle old scores upstairs in the Play Zone with foosball, table football, and the pool table, ideal for the friendly rivals in every group.

• End the night in comfort in Guinness and football-branded bedrooms that can house up to 20 guests, complete with a starter pack featuring Guinness Draught in a Can for those who want to stay on after the final whistle.
   

Redefining Matchday Culture
“Match nights are more than just about the beautiful game, they’re about the people, the banter, and a pint of Guinness that bring every kind of fan together,” said Joyce Lim, Marketing Manager at Guinness Malaysia. “We created Guinness Clubhouse as a space for different kinds of fans to come together, whether they’re here for the football, the food, or just the company, all over a shared love for Guinness, making every match night a Lovely Day for a Guinness.”
 

More than a place to stay, Guinness Clubhouse reflects how matchday culture is evolving, particularly in football-fan cities where fans are finding new ways to come together around the game. Through immersive, communal spaces centred on live football, the experience demonstrates how shared rituals continue to shape the matchday experience.
 

For more information on Guinness Clubhouse, visit clubhouse.guinnessmsia.com.
 

*Items associated with Guinness Clubhouse are subject to availability; first come, first served basis, terms and conditions, and house rules as set by the organiser, sponsor, house manager, and property owner. Guinness and all related promotions and activities are strictly for non-Muslims aged 21 and above only. Guinness Malaysia advocates responsible consumption and urges consumers not to drink and drive.

About Heineken Malaysia Berhad

HEINEKEN Malaysia is one of the leading brewers in the country with its portfolio of iconic international brands.

The Company brews, markets and distributes:

• The World's No. 1 international premium beer Heineken®

• The World-acclaimed iconic Asian beer Tiger Beer

• The World's No. 1 stout Guinness

• The premium wheat beer born in the Alps Edelweiss

• And many more. Visit www.heinekenmalaysia.com for a full overview of our portfolio

HEINEKEN Malaysia advocates responsible consumption through its Enjoy Responsibly and When Your Drive, Never Drink campaigns. HEINEKEN Malaysia’s corporate responsibility initiatives are carried out by its corporate responsibility arm, SPARK Foundation, focusing on environment and community partnerships.

Listed on the Bursa Malaysia Main Market, the principal shareholder of HEINEKEN Malaysia is GAPL Pte Ltd headquartered in Singapore. GAPL Pte Ltd is 100% owned by Heineken N.V. For more information, please visit: www.heinekenmalaysia.com.

SuryaKumar Yadav, Brand Ambassador, Skyscanner

With India entering the tournament as defending champions under Indian Men’s T20 captain and Skyscanner Brand Ambassador, Suryakumar Yadav, fans are not just watching from home, they are travelling to be part of the atmosphere. In the weeks leading up to the tournament, Skyscanner recorded an increase in searches to host cities, particularly in January, reflecting growing momentum as the first ball approaches.

Reflecting on the role fans play, Suryakumar Yadav said “I still go back to that catch from the 2024 final - not just for the moment, but for the roar. I think about the fans who travelled across the world just to be our heartbeat in the stands. In India, cricket isn’t just a game, it’s how we live. This World Cup takes us across seven beautiful cities, starting from my home ground at Wankhede, and I know that no matter where we play, the fans will always be there to cheer us on. When the journey is taken care of, you’re free to just lose yourself in the game. I can’t wait to hear that roar from the stands again.”

From Fixture List to Flight Search
Fixtures for the tournament were announced on 25 November 2025, triggering an immediate rise in travel planning. Skyscanner tracked flight searches with travel dates between 7 February and 8 March, covering the full tournament window across India and Sri Lanka.

Overall, India-related searches to host cities started in November, rising throughout the following months, eventually peaking in January. Search volume during week of 19 January went up to 63% higher than the week before. During the most recent week of 26 January, Skyscanner saw search volume reached the highest so far for the travel period during the T20 match period, 35% higher than the week of 19 January. While search demand could be due to various reasons, this is a strong indication of mounting interest from both Indian travellers planning domestic trips and international travellers searching for travel to India for the World Cup period.

Search interest for international host cities Colombo and Pallekele (Kandy) began building earlier, with momentum picking up from November 2025 and peaking through December and January, suggesting that fans planning cross-border travel are booking further in advance compared to domestic trips, driven by visa considerations, flight availability and longer travel lead times.

The travel demand seems to also align with the highly anticipated India versus Pakistan match on 15 February in Colombo, Sri Lanka. Searches for outbound travel to Colombo around the match weekend grew by 9% during the week of 8 December, compared to the previous week, making it a possible travel trigger of the tournament so far.

Neel Ghose, Destination and Travel Trends Expert, Skyscanner India, added, “We’re seeing cricket play a growing role in travel planning. Fans are aligning trips with key fixtures, from domestic flights between Indian cities to cross-border travel for major matches. The World Cup highlights how large-scale sporting events are influencing both the timing and purpose of travel among Indian travellers.”

Skyscanner expects search interest to remain strong throughout the tournament, particularly around knockout-stage matches and potential India fixture, underlining how cricket in India continues to translate directly into high-intent, travel-led behaviour.

About Skyscanner  
Skyscanner is a global leader in travel that helps travellers plan and book their trip with ease and confidence. Every month, Skyscanner connects millions of travellers, in 180 countries and 37 languages, to more than 1200 trusted travel partners so they can find flight, hotel or car hire options.

Founded in 2003, Skyscanner has offices worldwide, in Europe, Asia-Pacific and North America where traveller-first innovations are developed and powered by data and insights. Making use of the latest technology, Skyscanner simplifies the complexity of travel and provides honest and transparent solutions, searching around 100 billion prices every day so travellers can be sure they've seen the best possible options, all in one place.

Top 5 Favourites to Win the Player of the 2026 ICC T20 World Cup

The tenth edition of the T20 World Cup would mark a new leaf in the history of the tournament, as this will be the first edition which would not be marked by the presence of former Indian skipper Rohit Sharma or former Bangladesh skipper Shakib al Hasan.

Veterans like David Warner and Virat Kohli have played some memorable performances in the recent editions of the marquee tournament, but will not appear in the 2026 edition. This year could mark the rise of new legends in T20Is with the likes of Suryakumar Yadav, Aiden Markram, Harry Brook, and Mitchell Marsh vying to win their first ICC tournament as the skipper of their respective nations.

While batters have majorly ruled the roost in terms of winning the Player of the Tournament accolade at the previous T20 World Cups, the last edition witnessed Jasprit Bumrah bagging the individual accolade after a thoroughly impressive performance, helping India end their 17-year wait for the ICC T20 World Cup trophy.

Let’s have a look at the top four favorites to win the Player of the Tournament award at the 2026 edition of the ICC T20 World Cup:

#5 Marco Jansen (South Africa)

Marco Jansen will have to contribute as a genuine all-rounder in the 2026 ICC T20 World Cup

Marco Jansen has emerged as one of the best all-rounders in T20 cricket over the last couple of years, as his power-hitting abilities have consistently improved, and the lanky all-rounder now stands as the firm favorite to play at No.7 or No.8 for the Proteas.

Placed alongside New Zealand and Afghanistan in Group D, South Africa would have an unenviable task of being at their best from the word ‘go’, which could prove to be tough, as showcased in their 3-1 loss to India in a recent bilateral series in similar conditions.

Jansen showcased his power-hitting in the dead rubber of the series, smashing two boundaries and three maximums in 12 deliveries and also bowled a brilliant spell of 2/25 in four overs in the only match Markram’s men won in the tournament.

#4 Mitchell Marsh (Australia)
The Australian skipper has proven to be a powerhouse for Lucknow Supergiants, and despite the fact that Supergiants struggled in the 2025 edition of the Indian Premier League season, Marsh ended up in the Top 5 of the Orange Cap race with 627 runs in 13 innings at a strike rate of 163.71.

After winning the 2021 ICC T20 World Cup, Australia has suffered two consecutive disappointing campaigns in the tournament, and both campaigns hurt the Kangaroos in different ways. While the loss in the 2022 edition at home would have arguably hurt them the most, the fact that they were eliminated by dark horses Afghanistan from the last edition would have stung even more for the fans down under.

A product of Western Australian cricket, Marsh is one of the three Australian batters to feature in the Top 11 of the ICC T20I Men’s Batter rankings, alongside Travis Head and Tim David. The opening batter is well-versed with pitches in Mumbai, Ahmedabad, and Chennai, which could benefit the 2021 ICC T20 World Cup champions in the Super Eight stage.

#3 Mohammad Nabi (Afghanistan)
Veteran all-rounder Mohammad Nabi would be a key figure in the middle-order for Afghanistan alongside Azmatullah Omarzai and Rashid Khan. Over the years, Nabi has proven his mettle by finishing several matches for the Afghan Atalans and has a career strike rate of 136.59, which further improves to 165.5 when we narrow his T20I record to matches played in India.

Along with his power-packed variety of batting shots, the 41-year old is a wily spinner who can spin webs around the opposition teams, especially on spin-friendly pitches in Chennai and Colombo. 

Afghanistan will open their group stage campaign and end it at the M.A.Chidambaram Stadium in Chennai, and their tournament opener against New Zealand could prove to be crucial for their 2026 ICC T20 World Cup chances.

Nabi would be expected to support the spin trio of Mujeeb Ur Rahman, skipper Rashid, and Noor Ahmad while Fazalhaq Farooqi and Omarzai take care of the seam bowling duties. Afghanistan have a strong chance of making it to the semi-finals yet again if they play their cards right with Ibrahim Zadran and Darwish Rasooli in top form at the top of the order.

#2 Pathum Nissanka (Sri Lanka)
Pathum Nissanka has been the shining light for Sri Lanka’s flailing batting order in the last couple of years. While the youngster started his career with timid strike rates in T20Is, Nissanka’s consistency and improvement in the last couple of years have been rewarded by a bidding war between Delhi Capitals and Kolkata Knight Riders at the 2026 IPL mini-auctionw which ended with the Capitals shelling out INR 4 Crores to sign the Lankan batter.

Over the last couple of years, the 27-year old has bulked up, gained more power, and opened his shot selection to more options, thus improving his strike rate to 138.53 in 2024 and 149.16 in 2025, which included a century against India in the 2025 Asia Cup. The opening batter stuck to his guns in a chase of 203 runs, scoring 107 runs off 58 balls, smashing 7 fours and 6 maximums, helping Sri Lanka take the dead rubber encounter to a Super Over battle.

The 2014 T20 World Cup champions endured a tough time in the last few editions, even failing to get out of the group stage in the 2024 edition of the tournament, finishing in third place behind Bangladesh. The Lankan Lions would be relying on the brilliance of Nissanka and Wanindu Hasaranga in home conditions, which would provide some much-needed familiarity to the players.

#1 Hardik Pandya (India)
The defending champions are packed with a plethora of match winners, with Hardik Pandya the most proven all-round option and the senior-most player of the team in terms of appearances for the national team.

The Mumbai Indians skipper would be playing under the leadership of his franchise colleague Suryakumar Yadav, which could prove to be a blessing in disguise, as Pandya would be freed of the captaincy responsibilities and can fully focus on opening the bowling for the Men in Blue alongside Arshdeep Singh or providing the finishing touches with the willow in his hand.

Amidst a patchy injury record, the No.4-ranked all-rounder in the ICC T20I rankings has been completely focused on perfecting his preparations for the upcoming T20 World Cup, as the 32-year old sat out of the ODI series against New Zealand.

Since the start of 2024, Pandya has taken a wicket in almost every three overs in T20Is, and his career batting strike rate of 143.65 is improving further as Pandya has recorded strike rates of 150+ in the previous two calendar years.

Contributed By- Mohak Arora, Parimatch Sports analytics expert

The Great Indian Cricket Fan on Truecaller Study
 

The study underscores that cricket represents a high-intent moment, rather than a passive viewing occasion. Nearly one in two cricket viewers is active on Truecaller during matches, according to the study, offering brands access to audiences precisely when coordination and decision-making peak. The study observes an approximately 21 percent uplift in active usage on Truecaller versus pre-cricket baselines, driven by increased calling and utility-led behaviour rather than passive browsing.

“Cricket delivers unmatched scale for brands, but scale alone is no longer sufficient. What truly drives impact is access to moments when people are ready to act. Truecaller enables brands to show up within trusted, decision-led environments during cricket, transforming heightened attention into meaningful, measurable outcomes,” said Hemant Arora, VP of Global Ad Business at Truecaller.
 

Cricket has evolved into a dual-screen experience: television fuels emotion, while the mobile phone is where action unfolds. The study reveals that 76 percent of viewers use their phone while watching cricket, spanning activities like messaging, score checks, food ordering and payments, with clear usage uplift across multiple high-value categories, signalling heightened intent and transaction readiness.
 

“Cricket does not end on the TV screen. It continues on the phone. Because the phone is always in hand during live matches, decisions shift there. Our study shows that in these high-emotion moments, people move toward trusted utility environments to act. Calling apps and payment platforms emerge among the most trusted environments, and Truecaller is one of them,” said Archana Roche, Global Head of Measurement & Analytics, Truecaller.
 

The study positions Truecaller as a key decision environment during cricket, where attention, trust and action converge. These insights underpin Truecaller’s cricket season offerings, which are seeing strong adoption from brands across key categories.
 

The Great Indian Cricket Fan on Truecaller Study
 

“Cricket is a high-attention environment, which makes recall-based measurement unreliable. Passive mobile-behaviour measurement allows us to observe what people actually do on their phones during live matches, rather than what they claim to do,” said Manoj Dawane, Founder & CEO, VTION.AI.
 

Link to the report: ads-media.truecaller.com/f400c107-c1e5-42ca-a3a4-e4fc216897fc

Methodology
The study combines passive mobile behaviour signals from approximately 12,300 cricket viewers from VTION panel who are Truecaller users and a primary survey on VTION panel of 828 respondents analysed in partnership with VTION, a digital intelligence platform specialising in passive mobile-behaviour measurement. Primary survey fieldwork was conducted among cricket viewers in Dec 2025. Passive mobile behaviour was observed continuously across the March-May 2025 cricket window and benchmarked against a pre-cricket baseline.

About Truecaller
Truecaller is a leading global platform for verifying contacts and blocking unwanted communication, serving over 310 million monthly active users in India and over 450 million users globally. Headquartered in Stockholm, Truecaller has been publicly listed on Nasdaq Stockholm since October 2021. Advertising is the primary revenue stream for Truecaller, with Truecaller Ads serving billions of impressions daily to brands worldwide.

For more information, visit www.advertisers.truecaller.com.
 

About VTION
VTION is a digital intelligence platform that provides passive mobile-behaviour measurement and insight on India’s smartphone users, helping marketers understand real audience actions.

More information is available at www.vtion.ai.
 

Additional findings from The Great Indian Cricket Fan on Truecaller study will be shared across industry forums in the coming month.

Bisleri Powers the Spirit of the Tata Mumbai Marathon 2026 as Official Hydration Partner

Bisleri will have a strong on-ground presence at the marathon, with 20 hydration stations and four mist zones along the marathon’s scenic route. These touchpoints will offer runners moments of cool relief amid the challenge. To celebrate inspiration and perseverance, Bisleri will launch limited-edition bottles featuring athletes Bhagirathi Bisht, Anish Thapa and Nirmaben Thakor. Adding to the excitement, actor and fitness enthusiast Nikita Dutta will join the run, bringing energy and motivation to the course.

Bisleri Powers the Spirit of the Tata Mumbai Marathon 2026 as Official Hydration Partner

Reinforcing its commitment to sustainability, Bisleri will set up three motivation zones to drive awareness around plastic reusability. Recycled plastic benches will be installed at key locations across the venue, along with 90 plastic collection bins to enable effective waste collection throughout the event.

Mr. Tushar Malhotra, Director of Sales & Marketing, Bisleri International, commented, “The Tata Mumbai Marathon embodies the unstoppable energy and spirit of Mumbai. Hydration fuels endurance and performance, making it a vital part of every runner’s journey. Our nine-year association with the Procam Group and Tata Mumbai Marathon has been one of our most valued partnerships, as we continue to champion hydration. We will also be launching limited-edition packs to celebrate this iconic marathon featuring elite Indian runners.”

Bisleri's association with sports across genres demonstrates its strong commitment to promoting fitness, health, and sportsmanship among the larger sporting community and the youth.

Join in the celebration of the special connection between running, hydration, and the city's boundless passion for the sport, supported by Bisleri as the official hydration partner.

About Bisleri International Pvt. Ltd

With a legacy of over 50 years, Bisleri International Pvt. Ltd has grown to become one of the largest premium beverage businesses in India. Being the makers of the country's largest-selling packaged drinking water, Bisleri follows a stringent process of 114 quality tests and a 10-stage purification. It remains true to its core value of providing consumers with pure, safe and healthy water.

Bisleri International has a strong presence with 128 operational plants and a robust distribution network of over 6,000 Distributors and 7,500 Distribution Trucks across India and UAE market. It offers a range of beverages that are produced for all occasions. Whether it is the promise of goodness, trust, and purity with Bisleri packaged drinking water, or a daily dose of health offered through Vedica Himalayan Spring Water. Besides, Bisleri International has ventured into fun-filled refreshments with a diverse range of carbonated drinks available in multiple flavours, such as Bisleri Limonata, Bisleri Rev, Bisleri Spyci Jeera, Bisleri Pop and Bisleri Soda. These Bisleri products are also available on the e-commerce platform - Bisleri@Doorstep. This D2C platform reassures customers that they will receive a safe and uninterrupted supply of their most trusted brand at their doorstep.

The core values of Bisleri International lie in yielding growth and embedding sustainability by being responsible in all aspects of the business. The organization has unveiled Sustainability 2.0 with Bisleri Greener Promise that focuses on creating greener future for all through implementing initiatives under the program of recycling, water conservation, and sustainability.

For more information on Bisleri International, our people, brands, and OSR initiatives, visit www.bisleri.com.

Amarjeet Singh Chawla, aka ‘SportySikh,’ celebrates his 100th 10-km run at the 14th edition of Brookfield Properties Powai Run, alongside Charu Thapar, EVP & Head of Operations & CRM, Brookfield Properties

Key highlights included:

• The 100^th 10KM run of Mr. Amarjeet Singh Chawla, an inspirational visually impaired runner, inspiring participants, and audiences alike through his extraordinary journey.

• Participation of Geeta Chauhan, the captain of the Indian Women's Wheelchair Basketball Team in the post-run carnival.

The winners included:

WOMEN’S 10KM

• First: Kashish Malhotra

• Second: Ishita Malhi

• Third: Anupama Kamalam

MEN’S 10KM

• First: Rochishnu Rawool

• Second: Salman Shaikh

• Third: Takashi Doi.

Charu Thapar, Executive Vice President, Head of Operations and CRM, Brookfield Properties in India said, “The Powai Run reflects our commitment to building vibrant, inclusive communities where we operate. Beyond our physical spaces, we focus on fostering meaningful engagement with residents, tenants, and local stakeholders through long-term partnerships and initiatives such as the Powai Run. It’s a terrific event that has become a hallmark of the Powai community, which is a credit to our long-term partner, the Rotary Club of Mumbai Lakers. These efforts enable us to drive sustained community development while enhancing accessibility and a shared sense of belonging.”

Their very first competition together created a moment the nation had been waiting for. Neeraj crossed the 90m mark for the first time in his career, breaking one of the most iconic barriers in javelin throwing. It was a performance that instantly placed him among the sport’s elite and marked a milestone for Indian athletics.

Reflecting on their work, Neeraj shared how special it was to learn directly from an athlete he had admired since childhood. Training with Jan gave him a completely new toolbox of exercises, technical ideas, and fresh perspectives that helped him elevate his approach.

“Working with Jan opened my eyes to so many new ideas. The way he thinks about technique, rhythm, and movement is incredible, and I learned a lot from every single session we had together,” Neeraj said.

Jan Zelezny also reflected warmly on the partnership and the progress they made together: “Working with an athlete like Neeraj was a great experience. I'm glad we met and were able to work together, that I got him to break the 90-meter barrier for the first time. Apart from the World Championships, he finished at worst second and that is not a bad record. Unfortunately, the back injury 12 days before Tokyo significantly affected his chances. He has huge potential for the coming years. Our relationship is very positive also on the human side and we will continue to stay in touch, we will definitely meet at some training camp or, for example, on vacation with our families in Europe or India,” explained Jan Zelezny.

Looking ahead, Neeraj plans to take the lead in shaping his own coaching direction. Having worked with some of the sport’s finest coaches, he now feels ready to apply what worked best from each of them. At this stage of his career, he trusts his understanding of his body and his throwing more than ever before, and he has many new ideas he wants to bring into his training.

“I’m looking forward to what 2026 has in store. I started my preparation in early November. As always, the goal is to stay healthy, and I am already excited to be competing again soon,” Neeraj said. “At the same time, I’m especially looking ahead to the year with the World Championships in 2027, and the big goal beyond that is the Olympic Games in 2028.”

As the collaboration concludes, Neeraj closes this chapter with deep respect and appreciation.

“What I’m most proud about is the friendship I’ve built with someone who has been my idol all my life. Jan is not only the best javelin thrower of all time, but also one of the best human beings I have ever met.”

Kajaria Tiles continues their support with RCB Women’s Team

This renewal underscores Kajaria Tiles’ long-term commitment to the growth of women’s cricket in India and its strong belief in the Women’s T20 League as a transformative platform shaping the future of women’s sport. Over the past seasons, the partnership has grown alongside the league, marked by increasing fan engagement and a strong alignment of values between the brand and the team.

Beyond brand visibility, Kajaria Tiles aims to make a meaningful contribution to the women’s cricket ecosystem by supporting initiatives that encourage grassroots talent, community participation, and wider inclusion in women’s sport.

Commenting on the renewed partnership, Mr. Rishi Kajaria, Managing Director, Kajaria Ceramics Ltd., said: “Since the launch of the Women’s T20 League, our association with the RCB Women’s Team has represented much more than a sponsorship. Women empowerment is a core value at Kajaria, and our women cricketers are true role models, inspiring not just today’s generation but every young girl who dreams big. We are proud to continue our support for the RCB Women’s Team and be part of their journey in the seasons ahead.”

The front-of-jersey sponsorship reflects Kajaria Tiles’ belief in excellence, resilience, and leadership, as well as its commitment to providing women athletes with a strong platform on one of the country’s biggest sporting stages. As the partnership continues, Kajaria will further strengthen engagement during the Women’s T20 League through high-impact digital campaigns in collaboration with the RCB Women’s Team, reinforcing the brand’s focus on inclusivity, progress, and leadership in women’s sport.

Speaking on the association, Mr. Rajesh Menon, COO, Royal Challengers Bengaluru, said: “Kajaria Tiles has been a valued partner of the RCB Women’s Team since the inception of the Women’s T20 League. Their continued support has contributed significantly to strengthening the women’s game. We are delighted to extend this association and look forward to deepening fan engagement together.”

Tennis Tournament

The two-day tournament witnessed enthusiastic participation from around 210 senior tennis players from Chennai and nearby regions. The matches were conducted across multiple age categories, including 45–50, 50–55, 55–60, 60–65, 65–70,70–75 and 75 above, highlighting the growing passion for competitive sport among senior citizens.

The tournament featured seven categories each in singles and doubles, offering players an excellent platform to compete, stay active, and engage socially. The matches were played in a spirited yet friendly atmosphere, reflecting the importance of physical fitness, mental well-being, and camaraderie in promoting healthy and active aging.

The awards were presented by Dr. Singaravadivelu V, Senior Orthopaedic Surgeon, Kauvery Hospital Alwarpet who graced the valedictory function. Participants expressed their appreciation for the smooth organisation and facilities provided throughout the event.

The successful conduct of the tournament reaffirmed the commitment of Tamil Nadu Open Senior Tennis Club and Kauvery Hospital towards encouraging fitness, wellness, and active lifestyles among senior citizens through sports initiatives.

Manipal Academy of Higher Education (MAHE), an Institution of Eminence Deemed to be University, will host the 8th edition of the Manipal Marathon on Sunday, 08 February 2026, starting 5:00 a.m. onwards at KMC Greens, Manipal. Recognised as one of India’s largest student-organised community fitness events, Manipal Marathon 2026 is expected to witness the participation of nearly 20,000 runners, including over 100 international athletes, competing for a total prize pool exceeding Rs. 25 lakhs.
 

Manipal Marathon 2026
 

This year’s mega edition of the Manipal Marathon is anchored in the theme “Miles for a Greener Tomorrow”, with the tagline “Run for a Sustainable Future,” underscoring MAHE’s strong commitment to environmental responsibility, inclusive fitness, and holistic community well-being. The marathon also underscores MAHE’s ongoing environmental initiatives, including tree plantation, biodiversity conservation, solar energy adoption, waste management, rainwater harvesting, and sustainable mobility, extending these efforts beyond campus to inspire the wider community.
 

The marathon will feature five race categories - the 42K Full Marathon, 21K Half Marathon, 10K, 5K, and 3K Fun Run - catering to participants across diverse age groups and fitness levels. The event is expected to attract runners from across India and abroad, with international participation from Dubai, England, Ethiopia, Germany, Japan, Kenya, Malaysia, Nepal, Sri Lanka, and the USA, further enhancing the global stature and appeal of the Manipal Marathon.
 

The race day will commence with the 42K Full Marathon flag-off at 5:00 a.m., followed by the 21K Half Marathon at 5:30 a.m., the 10K run at 6:00 a.m., the 5K run at 6:45 a.m., and the 3K Fun Run at 8:00 a.m. The Special Category races for physically and visually challenged participants will be flagged off at 8:30 a.m.
 

The event will culminate in a high-energy post-run carnival at KMC Greens, Manipal, transforming the venue into a vibrant celebration zone. Featuring lively music, cultural performances, interactive fitness engagements, and a wide array of food stalls, the carnival promises an electrifying, fun-filled atmosphere, delivering an unforgettable experience for runners, families, and spectators that extends well beyond the finish line.
 

A key speciality of the Manipal Marathon is its scenic beachside route for the 42K Full Marathon, offering runners a truly distinctive race experience. This year, the 10K run features a newly introduced route leading to the Manipal Hospice Respite Centre, marking a meaningful milestone for the event.
 

The hospice represents a unique integration of advanced palliative care with research and education and is envisioned as the only facility in India attached to both a medical college and a tertiary care hospital, catering to cancer and non-cancer conditions. The Manipal Hospice Respite Centre will deliver innovative care models while training the next generation of palliative care specialists, reinforcing the marathon’s commitment to social impact and compassionate healthcare.
 

In line with MAHE’s commitment to equity and inclusiveness, Manipal Marathon 2026 will feature special participation categories for physically challenged and visually challenged runners, along with age-specific categories. Trained volunteers and dedicated support teams will be stationed throughout the course to ensure safety, guidance, and an empowering race experience for all participants.
 

Dr. H. S. Ballal, Pro Chancellor, MAHE, stated, “The Manipal Marathon has evolved into a powerful platform reflecting MAHE’s commitment to building a healthier and more socially responsible society. What began as a campus-led initiative has grown into one of India’s most anticipated marathon events, driven by strong institutional support, enthusiastic student leadership, and increasing community participation. This year’s theme, ‘Miles for a Greener Tomorrow,’ reinforces our belief that individual actions, when amplified through collective community effort, can drive meaningful environmental change. By integrating fitness with sustainability and inclusiveness, the marathon encourages participants to take ownership of their well-being while remaining conscious of their impact on the planet.”

Lt. Gen. (Dr.) M. D. Venkatesh, VSM (Retd), Vice Chancellor, MAHE, added, “The 8th edition of the Manipal Marathon exemplifies the transformative power of student-led initiatives in creating large-scale social impact. Anchored in the tagline ‘Run for a Sustainable Future,’ the event goes beyond competition to promote environmental responsibility, discipline, inclusivity, and collective well-being. With participation from across India and the world, the marathon showcases the unifying role of sport in bringing together people of diverse cultures, abilities, and age groups, while inspiring lifelong fitness and responsible citizenship.”
 

Strengthening MAHE’s pan-India commitment to health and sustainability, Manipal Marathon 2026 will be preceded by the inaugural MAHETHON 2026, a half-marathon scheduled on 25 January 2026 at the MAHE Bengaluru Campus. Inspired by Bengaluru’s culture of wellness, innovation, and community engagement, MAHETHON and the Manipal Marathon together represent MAHE’s nationwide vision of positioning fitness as a shared social responsibility.
 

More than a sporting event, Manipal Marathon 2026 stands as a celebration of determination, inclusivity, and collective purpose, reaffirming MAHE’s commitment to building a healthier society and a more sustainable future.
 

The press meet was attended by senior leadership and key officials of Manipal Academy of Higher Education (MAHE). Those present included Dr. Narayana Sabhahit, Pro Vice Chancellor (Technology & Science); Dr. Sharath Rao, Pro Vice Chancellor (Health Sciences); Prof. (Dr.) Madhu Veeraraghavan, Pro Vice Chancellor (Management, Law, Humanities and Social Sciences); Dr. Dilip G. Naik, Pro Vice Chancellor; Dr. Anand Venugopal, Chief Operating Officer (Operations); Dr. P. Giridhar Kini, Registrar; and Dr. Vinod C. Nayak, Secretary, Sports Council, MAHE.
 

About Manipal Academy of Higher Education (MAHE)

Manipal Academy of Higher Education (MAHE) is an Institution of Eminence Deemed-to-be University, offering over 400 specialisations across Health Sciences, Management, Law, Humanities & Social Sciences, and Technology & Science. MAHE operates through its constituent institutions across campuses in Manipal, Mangalore, Bengaluru, Jamshedpur, and Dubai.
 

Renowned for its academic excellence, world-class infrastructure, and impactful research contributions, MAHE has earned strong national and international recognition. In October 2020, the Ministry of Education, Government of India, conferred MAHE with the prestigious Institution of Eminence status. Currently ranked 3rd in the National Institutional Ranking Framework (NIRF), MAHE continues to be a preferred destination for students seeking a transformative learning experience and vibrant campus life, as well as for national and multinational organisations in search of top talent.
 

Registrations for Manipal Marathon 2026 are now open. Runners and fitness enthusiasts are encouraged to seize this opportunity to be part of one of India’s premier student-organised marathon events by registering through the official registration link manipalmarathon.in.

Dr. Payal Kanodia of M3M Foundation, Pankaj Bansal of M3M India and Aishwarya Bansal of Smart World with the World T20 Champion Indian Women’s Blind Cricket Team

Led by Captain Deepika T. C. of Karnataka and Vice-Captain Ganga S. Kadam of Maharashtra, and accompanied by Team Manager Ms Shika Shetty, the undefeated Indian team scripted history by winning the world’s first-ever global cricket championship exclusively for women cricketers with visual impairment. In a commanding final against Nepal, India restricted the opposition to 114/5 and chased the target in just 12.1 overs, showcasing confidence, skill, and teamwork.

The champions were welcomed and felicitated at M3M IFC, Gurugram, where Dr Payal Kanodia interacted closely with the team, acknowledging their extraordinary discipline, mental strength, and commitment to excellence. A World Kettlebell Champion herself, Dr. Kanodia shared reflections on the power of perseverance, focus, and self-belief—drawing parallels between elite sport and para-sport, and reaffirming the Foundation’s belief in sports as a powerful tool for dignity, confidence, and social inclusion.

The interaction also spotlighted M3M Foundation’s Lakshya Programme, a flagship initiative dedicated to identifying, nurturing, and supporting talented athletes across Olympic, Paralympic, and grassroots sports. Through structured mentorship, training support, and holistic development, Lakshya continues to empower sportspersons to compete and excel at national and international platforms.

Speaking on the occasion, Dr. Aishwarya Mahajan, Managing Trustee and President, M3M Foundation, said, “These champions have not only created sporting history, but have also inspired the nation by redefining resilience and inclusion. Their achievement reinforces our belief that when opportunity meets determination, limitations dissolve. We are proud to celebrate women who embody courage, excellence, and equality.”

The visit concluded with an engaging dialogue, exchange of experiences, and a shared commitment to strengthening India’s para-sports ecosystem. The champions’ presence served as a powerful reminder that when opportunity meets courage, history is created.

About M3M Foundation

M3M Foundation is the philanthropic arm of the M3M Group, working across education, health, livelihoods, sports, and environment. With a reach across 22 states and over 1,300 villages, the Foundation has positively impacted more than 5 million lives, driven by a vision of inclusive, sustainable, and transformative nation-building.

Zupee free to play model
 

Here are seven iconic Indian games making a huge comeback in the digital world:
 

1. Ludo

The popularity of Ludo has surged in recent years, thanks to digital platforms and apps like Ludo King that brought the classic board game to millions of smartphone users. Building on this momentum, Zupee Ludo offers an entirely free-to-play online experience for fans of the classic board game, prioritizing quick matches, skill-based gameplay and smooth digital access for users across India. All Ludo modes on Zupee are free, with no entry fee or payment required, aligning with the latest regulatory guidelines in India's real-money gaming space. Originating as Pachisi or Chaupar, played by Mughal emperors, Ludo involves racing tokens home by dice rolls. Zupee's Ludo Supreme and Classic modes deliver skill-based gaming experience to everyone.
 

2. Carrom

No longer just a wooden board game you balanced on four stools - Carrom now lives inside sleek mobile apps that replicate real physics and strike mechanics. Players can challenge opponents worldwide and enjoy freestyle or professional formats. Digital carrom has brought the club of childhood back to our pockets. Zupee Carrom Ninja reimagines it with point-pocketing races against timers, emphasizing skill in short free rounds.
 

3. Snakes & Ladders

One of the simplest childhood favorites, Snakes & Ladders has evolved into colourful, animated app versions with creative themes and online multiplayer. It remains a symbol of destiny versus strategy and a perfect family pick. Zupee Snakes and Ladders Plus adds token-cutting mechanics and 12-second turns for intense free online matches.
 

4. Tambola/Housie

Once the star of kitty parties and festival gatherings, Tambola has now become a massive online social game. From live calling rooms to themed game nights, digital house has expanded this classic into a community-driven gaming experience.
 

5. Teen Patti

The iconic card game played during Diwali and family gatherings is now among the most popular digital card formats. Multiplayer features, tournaments and private rooms recreate the festive tension and thrill - without the need for physical cards.
 

6. Chess

A centuries-old strategy game that originated in India (as Chaturanga), chess has exploded online with real-time matches, rankings, AI coaching and global tournaments. Young India is now learning and competing like never before, proof that strategy never goes out of style.
 

7. Hand Cricket

Hand cricket has always been a nostalgic playground classic, and Zupee Super Over brings that same thrill to the digital world in a sharp, competitive format. In this online hand cricket game, two players face off in a super-over style contest, choosing numbers between 1 and 6 to score runs or take wickets in just a few balls. With short, high-intensity matches designed for mobile, Zupee Super Over lets users relive the fun of hand cricket anytime, blending quick decision-making, strategy, and pure cricket excitement in a free-to-play experience.

The comeback of India’s classic games on smartphones reflects how digital innovation is reviving timeless entertainment for modern audiences. With multiplayer games like Ludo, Carrom, and Snakes & Ladders gaining massive traction, players can now relive childhood memories anytime, anywhere. This digital resurgence not only preserves cultural heritage but also strengthens social connection through fun, accessible gameplay.

Bisleri strengthens its UAE presence with a strategic three-year Hydration Partnership with the Emirates Cricket Board

Being the official governing body for cricket in the UAE, the ECB oversees the development of the sport across men’s, women’s, and U19 categories. Over the years, the ECB has played a crucial role in elevating the UAE's standing as an emerging cricketing hub, hosting high-impact bilateral series, marquee international fixtures, and world cricket tournaments.

Bisleri strengthens its UAE presence with a strategic Partnership with the Emirates Cricket Board

As part of the association, the Bisleri branding will appear on the uniforms of the Men’s National Team, Women’s National Team, U-19 Men’s Team, and U-19 Women’s Team. The branding will feature across bilateral series, Asian Cricket Council events, and ICC tournaments, strengthening Bisleri’s focus on supporting athletes competing and visibility across high-viewership global cricket platforms.

Chief Operating Officer Emirates Cricket Board Subhan Ahmad, “We are delighted to start this exciting three-year journey with Bisleri. The Emirates Cricket Board is fully committed to the growth and development of the sport in the UAE and continues to explore and formalise commercial partnerships with leading international brands like Bisleri. We look forward to a mutually rewarding partnership with long term benefits for both the men’s and women’s national teams.”

Head of Commercial Emirates Cricket Board Ishan Chopra, “Our long-term partnership with Bisleri represents a strong alignment of values and ambitions, marking an important step in the commercial and developmental journey of the Emirates Cricket Board. This association reinforces our mission to empower UAE cricket talent at every level while proudly representing the nation on the global stage.”

Chief Executive Officer Bisleri International Angelo George, “Bisleri is synonymous with packaged drinking water. We’re excited to partner with the Emirates Cricket Board as we champion hydration on a global stage. This collaboration brings us closer to passionate cricket fans across India and the UAE and deepens Bisleri’s association with the world of sport. It marks a significant step in expanding our international footprint and building Bisleri as a trusted global hydration brand.”

Director of Sales and Marketing Bisleri International Tushar Malhotra, “We are thrilled to partner with the Emirates Cricket Board as we continue to champion hydration. With the largest sports marketing portfolio across India and UAE, this prestigious association will be brought alive through an exciting, integrated marketing approach.”

Bisleri International has also formed a major strategic partnership with the Apparel Group earlier this year to manufacture, market, and distribute its iconic products across the Middle East and Africa.

About Bisleri International Pvt. Ltd

With a legacy of over 50 years, Bisleri International Pvt. Ltd has grown to become one of the largest premium beverage businesses in India. Being the makers of the country's largest-selling packaged drinking water, Bisleri follows a stringent process of 114 quality tests and a 10-stage purification. It remains true to its core value of providing consumers with pure, safe and healthy water.

Bisleri International has a strong presence with 128 operational plants and a robust distribution network of over 6,000 Distributors and 7,500 Distribution Trucks across India and UAE market. It offers a range of beverages that are produced for all occasions. Whether it is the promise of goodness, trust, and purity with Bisleri packaged drinking water, or a daily dose of health offered through Vedica Himalayan Spring Water. Besides, Bisleri International has ventured into fun-filled refreshments with a diverse range of carbonated drinks available in multiple flavours, such as Bisleri Limonata, Bisleri Rev, Bisleri Spyci Jeera, Bisleri Pop and Bisleri Soda. These Bisleri products are also available on the e-commerce platform - Bisleri@Doorstep. This D2C platform reassures customers that they will receive a safe and uninterrupted supply of their most trusted brand at their doorstep.

The core values of Bisleri International lie in yielding growth and embedding sustainability by being responsible in all aspects of the business. The organization has unveiled Sustainability 2.0 with Bisleri Greener Promise that focuses on creating greener future for all through implementing initiatives under the program of recycling, water conservation and sustainability.

For more information on Bisleri International, our people, brands, and OSR initiatives, visit www.bisleri.com.

Mr. Arjun Ranga hands over the sponsorship cheque for ASL T20 2025, strengthening Cycle Pure Agarbathi’s support for inclusive sports

As a principal partner, Cycle Pure Agarbathi has extended sponsorship support for this edition of the league. Building on last year’s contribution where the brand provided professional-grade cricket kits and equipment, this year, Cycle Pure’s contribution focuses entirely on financial sponsorship to strengthen the league’s operations and ensure a seamless experience for participating athletes.

The Ability Sports League T20, organised by Kshamata Innovation Foundation and Divyaang Myithri Sports Academy, is India’s primer wheelchair cricket league. Since its inception in 2018, the league has empowered over 600 wheelchair athletes with a platform to showcase their talent, resilience, and sporting spirit.

Mr. Arjun Ranga, Managing Director, Cycle Pure Agarbathi, said, “We are proud to continue our association with the Ability Sports League. Our sponsorship this season reflects our commitment to building inclusive platforms that celebrate the determination and excellence of differently-abled athletes. Through ASL, we are not only promoting wheelchair cricket but also building a stronger, more inclusive sporting culture in India.”

Ms. Kshama Rangan, Director, Kshamata Innovation Foundation, organiser of Ability Sports League T20, said, “We are grateful for Cycle Pure Agarbathi’s continued support, which has been instrumental in sustaining and growing the Ability Sports League. This financial sponsorship ensures that our athletes can focus entirely on their game, while we provide them with a seamless and professional tournament experience. Together, we wish to establish a roadmap to create equal opportunities, recognition and career for wheelchair athletes in the Nation’s favourite game.”

This edition, Take Sports ASL T20 2025 will feature six-city based teams – Bengaluru, Chennai, Hyderabad, Mumbai, Delhi and Lucknow – with athletes representing 16 States from across India. This pan-India participation underscores the league’s growing stature as a national platform for wheelchair cricket, bringing together talent, resilience, and sporting spirit from diverse corners of the country.

Sting Energy, the electrifying energy drink by PepsiCo and the Official Team Partner of Formula 1®, shifts into a new gear as it partners with the Mercedes-AMG PETRONAS F1 Team. In a first-of-its-kind moment for both Formula 1 and brand partnerships, Sting Energy and Mercedes-AMG PETRONAS F1 Team let the car deliver the news through a digital film. No podium. No script. Just a precision-tuned lap where the engine’s roar sharpened into an unmistakable “STINGGGGGG.”

Sting Energy X Mercedes-AMG PETRONAS F1 Team 

The announcement not only announces the partnership but also sets the tone for what Sting will bring to race weekends – more energy, more speed, and a deeper connection between fans and the Mercedes-AMG PETRONAS F1 Team.

Soon after the video dropped, leading creators took to social media to share their reactions and excitement about the news and the way it was communicated creatively by a car.

“This partnership unites performance, energy, and flavour under one banner - connecting three of PepsiCo’s most iconic brands with the world’s most successful Formula 1 team," said Eugene Willemsen, Chief Executive Officer, International Beverages at PepsiCo. “Through Gatorade, Sting, and Doritos, we’re inside the culture of the sport, fueling both the athletes and the fans who live for the thrill of F 1. Partnering with Mercedes-AMG PETRONAS Formula 1 Team reflects our shared commitment to performance, innovation, and excellence - values that define both our organizations.”

Toto Wolff, Team Principal & Chief Executive Officer, Mercedes-AMG PETRONAS F1 Team, said, “Welcoming a company with a portfolio as strong as PepsiCo’s into our partner ecosystem is another sign of the strength of our team and our sport. As a brand, they align perfectly with our ethos of chasing ultimate performance through innovation and excellence. Gatorade’s expertise in sports science, Sting’s youthful energy, and Doritos’ cultural relevance each bring something unique. Together, they create a partnership that not only supports our team’s performance but also enhances the experience for our fans around the world.”

Richard Sanders, Chief Commercial Officer, Mercedes-AMG PETRONAS F1 Team, said, “We’re delighted to welcome PepsiCo to the team. Their expertise in this sector will help us deliver great experiences for our guests and fans at the track and beyond. It’s a partnership that adds real value to how we operate day-to-day and how we connect with people around the world.”

HELL ENERGY DRINK Launches First-Ever Intercollegiate Cricket Turf Championship 2025 in Mumbai

The championship will be held across four major zones - Western, Central, SOBO, and Harbour, with participation from over 200 college teams and 2,000 players. Teams of ten (8+2) will compete in six-over knockout underarm turf matches, promising high octane, fast-paced cricketing action. Each zone will witness 27 matches across four intense days, culminating in four zonal champions advancing to the Grand City Finale, where they will battle for the title of HELL ENERGY DRINK Intercollegiate Cricket Turf Champion 2025.

Speaking about this event, Unnikannan Gangadharan, Director, HELL-ENERGY PRIVATE LIMITED, said, “HELL ENERGY DRINK stands for unstoppable power, unlimited passion, and unbeatable performance - values that perfectly align with the spirit of cricket and India’s youth. Through this championship, we aim to create a platform that energizes young talent and celebrates teamwork, ambition, and sporting excellence.”

He further added, “The growing popularity of turf cricket offers a fantastic opportunity to engage with college youth in a dynamic and relatable way. This initiative reflects our commitment to building meaningful connections with the new generation through the shared love for sport and energy.”

The tournament goes beyond competition, it’s a celebration of Mumbai’s vibrant college culture, complete with on-ground brand touchpoint and sampling opportunity designed to elevate the excitement both on and off the turf.

The Grand City Finale will crown the first-ever HELL ENERGY DRINK Intercollegiate Cricket Turf Champion, marking a milestone in the brand’s journey to energize India’s youth and reinforce its positioning as a symbol of unstoppable drive and passion.

About HELL ENERGY DRINK
HELL ENERGY DRINK is one of the fastest-growing FMCG brands in the world. Founded in 2006, the 100% Hungarian brand became Hungary’s market leader by 2010 and currently exports to 60+ countries. It holds market leadership in, among others, Greece, Bulgaria, Croatia, Romania, and Slovakia. HELL ENERGY DRINK’s success is driven by excellent quality, good value for money, wide availability, and world-class marketing communication. As a unique player in the energy drink sector, it is the only brand with a market-leading presence in several countries, its own ultramodern filling factory, and an aluminium beverage can factory, ensuring an unparalleled strategic position globally.

For more information, visit www.hellenergy.com/ind/ 

Hydrating Vizag with the Goodness of Copper

Speaking about the association, Partha Biswas, President & Head – RTD Business, Tata Consumer Products, said, “As India’s running culture continues to grow, we see a clear opportunity to support communities that are choosing an active lifestyle, discipline and wellbeing and TATA Copper+’s association with The Vizag Marathon reflects just that.”

The brand has also introduced ‘Tata Copper+ Khud Se Aage’, a digital platform that celebrates incredible runner stories of power, grit and comeback that truly reflects the Indian spirit of resilience.

About Tata Consumer Products Limited

Tata Consumer Products Limited is a focused consumer products company uniting the principal food and beverage interests of the Tata Group under one umbrella. The Company’s portfolio of products includes tea, coffee, water, RTD, salt, pulses, spices, ready-to-cook and ready-to-eat offerings, breakfast cereals, snacks and mini meals. Tata Consumer Products is the 2nd largest branded tea company in the world. Its key beverage brands include Tata Tea, Tetley, Organic India, Eight O’Clock Coffee, Tata Coffee Grand, Himalayan Natural Mineral Water, Tata Copper+ and Tata Gluco+. Its food portfolio includes brands such as Tata Salt, Tata Sampann, Tata Soulfull, Ching’s Secret and Smith & Jones. In India, Tata Consumer Products has a reach of over 275 million households, giving it an unparalleled ability to leverage the Tata brand in consumer products. The Company has a consolidated annual turnover of Rs. 17,618 Crs with operations in India and International markets.