Goats vs New Gen Parimatch Sport Vote
 

During this World Cup season, the battle of generations is getting hotter. With the ultimate title of world champion on the line, fans around the globe are arguing about who rules the pitch. The contest features two powerful sides. In the GOATs camp, fans can back multi-time Ballon d'Or winners and World Cup icons like Lionel Messi and Cristiano Ronaldo. Meanwhile, the New Gen side brings together tomorrow's superstars, including treble-winner Erling Haaland and European champion Lamine Yamal. Parimatch Sports invites everyone to join the debate and support their idol.
 

"Football has always united generations of fans. We decided to turn this timeless debate into an interactive activation where everyone can support their favorite and get a chance to win prizes," the Parimatch Sports Press Office stated.
 

Anyone can vote on the official page and get a chance to win special football rewards. The main prize is a PlayStation and a one-year subscription to FIFA 2027. Everyone who votes will get a chance to win the main prize. Additionally every week there is a draw for one limited-edition Lego set shaped like the legendary FIFA World Cup statue, and two gift certificates for Parimatch Sports.
 

The voting runs until July 19. Winners will be announced on the official Parimatch Sports Instagram page.

Argentina Team

As one of the world's most respected football federations, AFA represents a rich sporting legacy, global recognition, and a strong international presence. Leveraging this association, Jagdale plans to introduce a series of engagement-led initiatives designed to strengthen relationships with healthcare professionals, chemists, institutional customers, and sales teams. These initiatives will create unique opportunities for recognition, participation, and deeper stakeholder engagement across the organization's business network.

Commenting on the occasion, Mr. Rajesh Nagaraja Rao Jagdale, Chairman & Managing Director, Jagdale Industries Private Limited, said, "We are immensely proud to commence this association with the Argentina Football Association, one of the most   celebrated football institutions in the world. This Licensing collaboration represents a significant milestone in Jagdale's journey and reflects our enduring commitment to our vision of 'Excellence Through Quality & Innovation.'

At Jagdale, we have always believed in creating meaningful value through trusted relationships, innovative thinking, and a relentless pursuit of excellence. The passion and winning spirit that the Argentina Football Association embodies resonate strongly with the values that have guided our organization over the years."

Speaking on the partnership, Leandro Petersen, Chief Commercial and Marketing Officer, Argentina Football Association said, "We are delighted to welcome Jagdale Industries as an Official Licensee of the Argentine Football Association in India. Their standing in the Indian healthcare and wellness sector, combined with their commitment to excellence and innovation, makes them an ideal partner as AFA continues to grow its presence in one of the world's most dynamic markets."

Adding to this, Pranav Mani Chinnaswamy, President - Middle East and India, Druid Sport, said, "We are thrilled to welcome Jagdale Industries into the AFA family in India as an Official Licensee. Jagdale is a company with deep roots in Indian healthcare and a genuine commitment to the communities they serve. As AFA's exclusive commercial representative in the Indian Subcontinent, Druid Sport is proud to have helped facilitate this association ahead of the FIFA World Cup 2026."

Combining AFA’s global stature with Jagdale’s market expertise, the collaboration aims to build a strong, enduring presence for the Argentine football brand among India’s expanding football community.

Lakshya Scholar Puja Tomar; Dr. Payal Kanodia, Chairperson & Trustee, M3M Foundation, with Lakshya Scholar Tenzin Dolma

Long before medals are won and records are broken, these athletes battle circumstances, shoulder responsibilities and continue to pursue excellence with unwavering resolve. 

Recognising the extraordinary potential hidden within India's grassroots, M3M Foundation launched Lakshya to ensure that talent is supported, aspirations are nurtured and deserving athletes receive the opportunity to represent the nation with pride. 

One such champion is Tenzin Dolma, an ultra-runner from the remote Spiti Valley of Himachal Pradesh and a beneficiary of M3M Foundation's Lakshya Programme. 

Recently, Tenzin brought pride to the nation at the IAU Asian-Oceania 24 Hours Championship in Japan, where she broke both India's 12-hour and 24-hour National Records and helped the Indian Women's Team secure the Bronze Medal. For a woman who lost her parents at a young age, became a mother in her teens and supported her family through a modest tea stall, the achievement represents far more than a sporting milestone - it is a story of resilience, perseverance and hope. 

Tenzin's journey reflects the larger vision of Lakshya, M3M Foundation's flagship sports initiative envisioned under the leadership of Dr. Payal Kanodia, Chairperson and Trustee, M3M Foundation, who herself is an International Kettlebell Champion. Having experienced the demands of competitive sport firsthand, Dr. Kanodia believes that talent should never be limited by geography or financial circumstances. 

Today, Lakshya supports more than 100 scholars across 11 states, including Haryana, Delhi, Uttar Pradesh, Rajasthan, Jharkhand, Madhya Pradesh, Maharashtra, Himachal Pradesh, Uttarakhand, Ladakh and Jammu & Kashmir. 

The programme's impact extends across 36 sporting disciplines, from Athletics and Boxing to Golf, Gymnastics, Para Sports and Kettlebell Lifting, creating opportunities for talented athletes who otherwise may never have received access to structured support. 

Among them is Puja Tomar, one of India's leading mixed martial artists and another Lakshya Scholar. Hailing from Muzaffarnagar, Uttar Pradesh, Puja overcame personal and financial hardships to pursue combat sports and went on to script history by becoming the first Indian woman to register a victory in the UFC. Her journey, much like Tenzin's, demonstrates the extraordinary potential that exists within India's grassroots communities. 

The achievements of Lakshya scholars are increasingly being reflected on podiums across the world. Collectively, athletes supported by the programme have secured 390 medals, including 77 international medals, reinforcing the Foundation's commitment to strengthening India's sporting ecosystem from the grassroots upwards. 

Speaking about the Foundation's vision, Dr. Payal Kanodia said, "As an athlete myself, I understand the sacrifices, discipline and perseverance that excellence demands. Through Lakshya, our endeavour is to ensure that deserving sportspersons receive the opportunities and support they need to realise their full potential. Athletes like Tenzin Dolma and Puja Tomar remind us that some of India's greatest champions emerge from the most challenging circumstances." 

For M3M Foundation, Lakshya is not merely about supporting athletes. It is about believing in dreams before the world recognises them and ensuring that talent from every corner of India gets an opportunity to make the nation proud. 

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. 

The inaugural championship brought together 522 athletes from 79 countries across multiple Yogasana disciplines and age categories. Organised by Yogasana Bharat in association with World Yogasana and the Indian Olympic Association, the event marked the largest international competitive platform for Yogasana so far.

Galgotias University students made India proud at the World Yogasana Championship 2026 with five Gold Medals across Traditional, Supine, Artistic Pair, and Group events

India finished at the top of the medal tally with 114 medals, including 102 Gold Medals.

Representing India, first-year students from Galgotias University won medals across artistic, traditional, and individual categories.

Ritu Mondal, a first-year BA Economics student, secured Gold Medals in Traditional Individual and Traditional Group categories. Riya, a first-year BA English student, won Gold in the Supine Individual event in the Senior Category. Deepa Lodhi, a first-year BA English student competing in the Junior Category, secured Gold Medals in Artistic Pair and Artistic Group.

The championship featured competitions in traditional yogasana, artistic single, artistic pair, artistic group, rhythmic pair, and specialised flexibility and balance events.

Dr Dhruv Galgotia, CEO, Galgotias University, said, “Competing at a championship that brought together athletes from 79 countries demands a very different level of preparation, consistency, and discipline. Securing five Gold Medals against international competition is a significant achievement for our students and for Indian Yogasana.”

Deepa Lodhi said, “The scale of the championship was very different from anything I had experienced earlier. Competing against international participants helped me understand the level of preparation required at the global stage.”

Riya said, “The competition environment was extremely demanding because every category had strong international participation. Winning here has given me confidence to prepare for bigger championships ahead.”

Ritu Mondal said, “The event showed how rapidly Yogasana is growing internationally. For us as athletes, it was an opportunity to represent India in a discipline that originated here.”

The achievement adds to Galgotias University’s growing presence on international stages across sports, innovation, entrepreneurship, technology, and global academic competitions, where students are increasingly competing alongside participants from leading institutions and countries worldwide.

About Galgotias University
Galgotias University is one of India’s leading multidisciplinary universities recognised for academic excellence, research, innovation, global collaborations, and industry aligned education. With a vibrant student community of over 50,000 learners and a global alumni network of more than 100,000 graduates, the University has built a rapidly growing ecosystem focused on technology, entrepreneurship, interdisciplinary learning, and real-world impact.

In the QS World University Rankings 2026 by Quacquarelli Symonds, Galgotias University was placed in the 1201-1400 global band and ranked 15th among private universities and 43rd among all universities in India. In the Times Higher Education World University Rankings 2026, the University was placed in the 1201-1500 global band and ranked 27th among private universities and 65th among all universities in India. The University is also accredited with NAAC A+, one of India’s highest institutional quality ratings.

Galgotias University offers programmes across engineering, artificial intelligence, semiconductors, business, law, media, design, health sciences, hospitality, liberal education, and emerging interdisciplinary domains. In 2026, students secured more than 5,100 job offers from over 1,250 recruiters. The University has built strong industry and innovation partnerships with organisations including Apple, Infosys, Intel, Cisco, Tata Technologies, L&T EduTech, Capgemini, and Salesforce, while continuing to strengthen its global academic engagement and startup ecosystem.

Intex Partners Afghanistan Men's Cricket Team

The bilateral series features a one-off Test match in New Chandigarh followed by a three-match ODI series in Dharamshala, Lucknow and Chennai. The tour is yet another major chapter in the burgeoning cricketing relationship between India and Afghanistan, two nations linked by a common love of the sport and a historic sporting partnership. Afghanistan has been one of the most heartwarming success stories in international cricket over the last decade, with its rapid rise, competitive performances and resilient spirit inspiring the world.

Commenting on the association, Keshav Bansal, Director, Intex Technologies said, “Cricket remains one of the most powerful platforms for connecting with consumers across geographies, cultures and generations. Afghanistan's cricket journey is a remarkable story of passion, resilience, and an unyielding spirit — values that resonate deeply with the ethos of Intex. This association provides us with an exciting opportunity to engage with millions of passionate cricket fans while reinforcing Intex's commitment to connecting with consumers through meaningful sporting associations.”

Sayed Naseem Sadaat, Spokesperson, Afghanistan Cricket Board said, “We are very happy to have Intex Technologies as the Official Associate Sponsor of Afghanistan Men’s Cricket Team for our India tour. As Afghanistan cricket continues to grow its presence and connect with fans across the world, partnerships with respected Indian brands such as Intex play an important role in supporting that journey. We would like to thank the team at Intex for this partnership and look forward to a successful and exciting series.” 

The Afghanistan tour of India kicks off with the one-off Test match from June 6-10, followed by ODIs on June 13, June 17 and June 20. With live television coverage on the Star Sports Network and digital streaming on JioHotstar, the series is expected to attract substantial viewership across India, Afghanistan and global cricket audiences.

About Intex Technologies

Founded in 1996, Intex Technologies is one of India’s leading consumer electronics brands, with a legacy of delivering innovative and value-driven products to millions of customers across the country. Its diversified portfolio spans TVs, Display Solutions, Air Conditioners, Washing Machines, Fans, Air Coolers, Small Domestic Appliances, Audio Speakers, IT and Mobile Accessories, and Security & Surveillance systems. With a robust pan-India distribution network covering 18,000+ pin codes, supported by 500+ distributors, 25,000+ dealers, and 500+ authorised service partners, Intex ensures wide availability backed by reliable after-sales support. The brand remains focused on creating accessible, technology-led solutions that address the evolving needs of Indian consumers.

For more information, visit www.intex.in

NR Group continues to champion emerging sports, supporting young athletes as they ride the waves of opportunity and excellence at the Indian Open of Surfing 2026

Held from 29th to 31st May 2026 at the Blue Bay Eco Beach, Tannirbhavi Mangalore, the championship brought together competitive surfers from across the country, further strengthening its position as one of India’s premier surfing events.

Through this association, Cycle Pure Agarbathi aims to contribute to the growth and visibility of competitive surfing in India by providing a stronger platform for athletes to showcase their talent and pursue the sport professionally. The sponsorship aligns with the broader vision of NR Group to support diverse sporting disciplines across the country, including golf, cricket, kabaddi, tennis, and athletics, while contributing to India’s expanding sports ecosystem and creating greater opportunities for athletes.

Speaking on the association, Arjun Ranga, Managing Director, Cycle Pure Agarbathi stated, “The partnership with the Indian Open of Surfing reflects the company’s belief in the power of sports to unite communities and inspire younger generations. We are proud to continue supporting an event that is steadily placing Indian surfing on the national sporting map.”

The inauguration ceremony was attended by several attendees including Shri H. V. Dharshan IAS, Deputy Commissioner of Dakshina Kannada; Shri Vinayak IAS, CEO of Zilla Panchayat, Dakshina Kannada; Smt. Meenakshi Arya IAS, Assistant Commissioner, Mangalore; Shri Dilip, Deputy Director, Department of Tourism, Dakshina Kannada; and Shri Pradeep D’Souza, Assistant Director, Department of Youth Empowerment and Sports, Dakshina Kannada.

The closing ceremony was also attended by eminent dignitaries including Smt S Shanthi Deputy Chairperson, New Mangalore Port Authority; Shri Ramnath Rai Former Minister, Govt of Karnataka; Dr Y Bharath Shetty Deputy Commissioner, Dakshina Kannada; Shri Pradeep Dsouza Deputy Director, Dept of Youth Empowerment and Sports; Shri Dileep Kumar Deputy Director, Dept of tourism Dakshina Kannada; Shri Arun Vasu President, Surfing Federation of India; Shri Dhananjay Shetty Chairman, Surfing Swami Foundation; Shri Rammohan Paranjape President, Karnataka Surfing Association. 

The Indian Open of Surfing continues to emerge as an important platform for promoting surfing talent and coastal sports in India. Cycle Pure Agarbathi’s continued association with the championship reflects NR Group’s long-term commitment to supporting sporting initiatives across disciplines, championing athletic excellence, and contributing to the development of a stronger sports culture in the country.

Investor Nicole Junkermann highlights India’s role in shaping future sports formats

That wasn't an accident. It was a consequence of market conditions. And those conditions, Nicole Junkermann argues, are more present in India today than anywhere else in the world.

"The markets that produce format innovation aren't always the biggest or the richest. They're the ones with the right combination of audience appetite, digital infrastructure and low attachment to the way things have always been done. India has all three. It had them when T20 happened. It still has them now, across a much broader range of sports."

Nicole Junkermann, founder of NJF Holdings and Gameday by NJF Holdings, has developed her view on format innovation through Gameday's work in professional sports leagues across Europe, most notably its partnership with Lega Volley Femminile in Italy, where the platform has supported a significant transformation in how a traditional league reaches and engages modern audiences. The experience has sharpened her thinking on what makes certain markets generative and others imitative.

What makes a market produce innovation
Junkermann identifies three structural conditions that tend to produce sports format disruption rather than replication.

Audience sophistication without legacy loyalty. Indian sports fans are deeply knowledgeable and intensely engaged, but outside cricket and one or two other sports, haven't spent decades attached to a single format. That creates genuine openness to new propositions. A fan in Manchester has forty years of expectations about what a football match looks like. A fan in Mumbai watching the ISL in its early seasons does not. That difference matters more than it appears.

Mobile-first infrastructure that determines what works. India's sports audiences access content almost entirely through mobile devices. That shapes what succeeds: shorter windows, interactive features, creator-led storytelling, real-time participation. Formats designed for television audiences require significant adaptation. Formats designed for mobile audiences from the start look different, and India's market provides the clearest signal anywhere for what that means in practice.

Commercial conditions that reward experimentation. The IPL demonstrated that new formats can generate extraordinary value very quickly. That proof of concept has made India's sporting ecosystem more willing to try things than more conservative markets. The cost of failure is lower. The upside case is highly visible. That changes the risk calculus for everyone involved.

What to watch
Junkermann sees three areas where India's market conditions are most likely to produce something genuinely new in the near term.

Women's leagues designed for digital audiences from day one. New women's leagues in India can be built with creator ecosystems, direct fan access and mobile distribution as primary channels rather than treating broadcast as the default and digital as an afterthought. That's a fundamentally different product architecture, and it's only available to new entrants. Established men's leagues in Europe have spent years trying to retrofit it.

Fan participation integrated into the live experience. India's fantasy sports and gaming market is one of the largest in the world. Leagues that build prediction, participation and personalisation into the live event itself, rather than treating them as adjacent products, may produce something that doesn't yet have a name. The technology exists. The audience appetite is demonstrable. The format hasn't arrived yet.

Creator-first content distribution. India's creator economy is enormous and sports-adjacent content is among its fastest-growing categories. Leagues that treat creator partnerships as primary distribution infrastructure rather than a marketing channel gain direct access to engaged audiences without dependence on broadcast intermediaries. That changes the economics of reaching fans in ways that haven't been fully explored.

"The interesting question isn't whether India will produce the next format innovation in sport. It's which sport, and which league will be positioned to capture it when it happens. The conditions are structural. The timing is harder to predict."

Why format travels
Nicole Junkermann is clear that format innovation doesn’t stay where it starts. T20 may have originated in England, but India transformed it into a global phenomenon. The formats that emerge from India’s current market conditions, whatever they turn out to be, are likely to travel for the same reason: they’ll be built for the audiences the rest of the world’s sports markets are increasingly trying to reach.
Mobile-first, creator-adjacent, participation-oriented sport isn't an Indian preference. It's a generational one. India is simply the market where the conditions to develop it are most concentrated right now.

Nicole Junkerman adds, "Every major format shift in sport has started somewhere specific before it became universal. T20 became a global cultural and commercial phenomenon in India. The next one might too. The underlying logic is the same: build for the audience that exists, not the one that used to."

About Gameday by NJF Holdings
Gameday by NJF Holdings is a sports investment and strategic platform founded by Nicole Junkermann. Focused on building long-term value across leagues, media and sports technology, its approach centres on structural growth, digital transformation and scalable fan ecosystems.

The platform is the largest shareholder in Italy's professional women's volleyball league, Lega Volley Femminile (LVF), where it is supporting league-level commercial and digital development.

For more information, visit gameday.team

Nicole Junkermann points to sports science and longevity as fast-growing investment themes

The announcement reflects NJF Holdings' position across two sectors that are increasingly connected but rarely addressed together. Through its venture arm NJF Capital, the group has built a portfolio of more than 40 technology and life sciences companies. Through Gameday by NJF Holdings, it is one of Europe's most active investors in professional sports infrastructure. Junkermann describes the combination as giving NJF a vantage point on the sports-life sciences convergence that few investors share.

"Sport and life sciences look like separate sectors. They're actually very interconnected. The science of what makes athletes perform better, recover faster and extend their careers is the same science that improves how ordinary people age. India has the research talent, the clinical infrastructure and the commercial incentive to lead in both. The opportunity is to connect them deliberately rather than let them develop in parallel."

The longevity economy

One of the defining economic trends of the next three decades is what analysts increasingly describe as the longevity economy: the growing global market for products, services and technologies that extend healthy human lifespan. It spans pharmaceuticals, diagnostics, wearables, nutrition science, genetic research and rehabilitation technology, and is attracting significant capital across markets.

Elite sport sits at the frontier of that economy. Professional athletes are, in effect, test cases for human performance optimisation. The recovery protocols, nutritional interventions, biomechanical analysis tools and injury prevention systems developed for professional sport consistently filter into mainstream medicine over time.

India's opportunity, Nicole Junkermann argues, is to compress that timeline: to become not just a recipient of sports life sciences technology developed elsewhere but an active producer of it.

The country already has significant strengths to build on. India is a global leader in pharmaceuticals and drug manufacturing. It has a growing biotech and health technology sector. Its engineering and scientific talent base is deep. And it has a professional sports sector that is expanding rapidly and generating growing demand for performance science.

What leagues can do

Junkermann argues that India's professional sports leagues have an underappreciated role in developing this ecosystem and a direct commercial incentive to do so.

Leagues that invest seriously in athlete health and performance science create two compounding benefits. First, they produce better athletes. Career longevity, reduced injury rates and optimised recovery translate directly into product quality on the pitch or court, which in turn supports audience growth, media value and sponsorship demand. Second, they generate data. The biomechanical, physiological and psychological data produced by tracking elite athletes at scale is a research asset with value well beyond the league itself.

"A professional league that takes athlete health seriously isn't just doing the right thing. It's building an asset. The performance data, the clinical protocols and the partnerships with life sciences companies have long-term commercial value that most leagues haven't begun to account for. The NBA and Premier League are learning that. India's leagues can start from that understanding rather than arrive at it later."

The investment opportunity

NJF Holdings is evaluating opportunities at this intersection in India across several categories: sports performance technology companies applying AI and data science to athlete development; health technology platforms addressing the needs of active populations; diagnostics and wearables companies whose products are validated in professional sport before reaching consumer markets; and research partnerships between professional leagues and life sciences institutions.

Junkermann draws a direct parallel to how India built its digital public infrastructure in payments and identity: by identifying a systemic need, investing in the foundational layer and creating conditions for private innovation to follow.

"India didn't stumble into UPI. It made a deliberate decision to build payment infrastructure that served everyone. The same logic applies to sports life sciences. If India decides to build the infrastructure that connects professional sport to longevity research to consumer health, it can lead the world in this space within a decade. If it lets the sectors develop separately, it will spend the following decade importing the technology from elsewhere."

NJF Holdings will share further details on specific investment activity in this area later in 2026.

About NJF Holdings

NJF Holdings is a global investment group founded by Nicole Junkermann, encompassing NJF Capital, a venture portfolio of more than 40 technology, AI and life sciences companies, and Gameday by NJF Holdings, a sports investment and platform business.

Notable NJF Capital investments include SpaceX, Revolut, Rippling and Groq, acquired by Nvidia. Gameday by NJF Holdings is the largest shareholder in Italy's Lega Volley Femminile.

For more information, visit NJFHoldings.com and gameday.team.

Winners and Runners-Up Across All Categories at the Avaada Otters Club Squash Tournament 2026

Held from May 25 to 30, 2026 at Otters Club, Bandra, the tournament saw 558 players competing across 16 categories. Participants converged from cities across India, bringing with them a vibrant mix of skill, ambition, and sportsmanship. The event featured competition across Men, Women, Boys, and Girls’ categories, with key highlights as follows:

• Total Categories: 16

• Total Players: 558

The tournament bore witness to exceptional performances across all categories, setting new benchmarks and reaffirming India’s deep reservoir of squash talent. From emerging youngsters announcing their arrival on the national stage to seasoned competitors raising the bar, every match reflected the growing stature of the sport in the country. Adding to the excitement, the courts drew large, enthusiastic crowds each day, with spectators cheering loudly and keeping the energy high throughout the event.

Reflecting on the tournament’s success, Ms. Sindoor Mittal, Vice Chairperson of Avaada Group, said, “At Avaada, we have always believed that building a better future goes beyond clean energy. It is about investing in people, communities, and the next generation. This tournament has once again shown us the extraordinary power of sport to inspire and unite. Witnessing 558 players compete with such passion and determination has been deeply motivating, and we are immensely proud of our continued partnership with the Otters Club Squash Tournament. The energy on and off the courts over these six days was a testament to India’s growing talent & love for squash.”

Commenting on the successful conclusion of the tournament, Mr. Niraj Shirgaokar, President of Otters Club, said, “We are delighted with the tremendous success of this year’s Otters Club Squash Tournament. The event witnessed exceptional talent, competitive spirit, and sportsmanship from players across various age groups, reaffirming its position as one of the premier platforms for emerging squash players in India. It is gratifying to see young athletes embrace the challenge, showcase their skills, and continue to raise the standard of the sport. We congratulate all the participants, winners, coaches, and supporters who contributed to making the tournament a memorable celebration of squash and its growing future in the country.”

Avaada’s continued support for the Otters Club Squash Tournament reflects their unwavering commitment to nurturing youth through sport, aligning with their broader mission of promoting sustainable, inclusive growth across all spheres of society. As the 2026 edition draws to a close, the tournament looks ahead to continuing its role in developing squash talent across India.

About Avaada Group

Avaada Group is a diversified clean energy conglomerate driving the energy transition across Renewable Power Generation, Solar PV Manufacturing, Green Hydrogen and Derivatives, Battery Storage, Pumped Hydro Projects, and Green Data Centres. With innovation and sustainability at its core, Avaada is powering the industries of tomorrow with solutions that are Always Clean, Always On.

Haridwar-based social leader and President of the Sistolball Association of Uttarakhand, Poonam Bhagat

The achievement is being seen as a significant moment for Uttarakhand’s sporting community, particularly for athletes participating in emerging sports disciplines that are gradually gaining recognition at national and international levels. Sports enthusiasts and local associations believe such selections can motivate more young players from smaller towns and districts to pursue professional sports opportunities.

Under the leadership of the Cestoball Association of Uttarakhand, several grassroots-level initiatives are being undertaken to identify and support promising talent across the state. The association has been organising training sessions, awareness drives, local competitions, and participation programmes aimed at encouraging youth involvement in sports activities.

Speaking on the development, Poonam Bhagat said, “The youth of Uttarakhand possess immense talent and potential. Providing them with the right exposure, training, and opportunities can help them compete confidently at national and international platforms. Sports also play an important role in building discipline, confidence, and a positive outlook among young people.”

She further stated that emerging sports require greater awareness and institutional support to ensure talented athletes from rural and semi-urban areas receive equal opportunities to grow and represent the country. According to her, sports can serve as an effective medium for youth engagement and social development.

According to association members, the ongoing initiatives led by the Cestoball Association are helping generate awareness about emerging sports among youth in Uttarakhand. Through training camps, participation drives, and grassroots-level outreach programmes, the association aims to encourage greater youth participation in sports and create structured opportunities for talented players from smaller towns and districts.

Local sports supporters and members of the association expressed confidence that more athletes from Uttarakhand would represent India in international championships in the coming years. They believe continued focus on grassroots sports development and athlete support can strengthen Uttarakhand’s presence in emerging sports categories.

The recent international selection of players is being viewed as a positive development for the state’s sports ecosystem and reflects the increasing participation of Uttarakhand youth in competitive sporting platforms beyond mainstream disciplines.

Nicole Junkermann says the future of Indian sport will be built beyond the spotlight

"Everyone is looking at the asset. Not enough people are looking at what sits beneath it. The franchise is the headline. The infrastructure is the business."

Nicole Junkermann has spent the past several years building an investment thesis at what she describes as the infrastructure layer: the technology and platforms that sit beneath consumer-facing industries and determine their long-term economics. Her venture portfolio at NJF Capital, which includes investments in SpaceX, Revolut, Rippling and Groq, reflects a consistent instinct that enabling platforms create more durable value than the companies operating within them. She applies the same logic to sport. And increasingly, she applies it to India.

The pick-and-shovel argument

The analogy she reaches for is the California Gold Rush. The merchants who sold picks and shovels to miners didn't need any particular mine to succeed. They just needed mining to grow.

In sport, the equivalent is the infrastructure layer: broadcast technology, content distribution, fan data platforms, ticketing and payments infrastructure, athlete performance tools, sponsorship measurement systems. None of these require a particular team to win. They benefit when sport as a whole grows. And India's sport is growing.

"The IPL is one of the most valuable sporting properties in the world. Football, kabaddi and volleyball leagues are professionalising. Women's sport is attracting serious attention for the first time. The fan base is young, digitally connected and expanding fast. The infrastructure those leagues need to operate efficiently and grow commercially is being built now. That's the investment moment."

Five categories that matter

Junkermann is precise about where NJF Holdings believes the most durable value in Indian sport will accumulate.

1. Broadcast and content technology: tools that automate highlight production, enable creator partnerships and distribute content efficiently across platforms. Leagues with modern content infrastructure reach more fans at lower cost and build year-round relevance rather than seasonal spikes.

2. Fan data platforms: systems that help leagues understand their audiences directly rather than through intermediaries. The leagues that own fan relationships will have stronger commercial leverage with sponsors and broadcasters as the market matures.

3. Ticketing and payments infrastructure: systems that reduce friction between sport and its audience. India's mobile payments sophistication is a genuine structural advantage that the sports sector hasn't yet fully exploited.

4. Sports performance technology: tools that improve athlete development, reduce injury risk and extend careers. Leagues that invest seriously in athlete welfare produce better sporting products and reduce the roster volatility that undermines competitive consistency.

5. Governance and scheduling systems: the operational infrastructure that allows leagues to run efficiently, maintain competitive integrity and present a consistent product to broadcasters and sponsors. Often invisible. Always foundational.

Why now

Nicole Junkermann identifies three reasons why the infrastructure investment window in Indian sport is open now in a way it won't be indefinitely.

Scale is established but infrastructure isn't. Unlike mature markets such as the Premier League or the NBA, where infrastructure investment requires displacing incumbent systems, India's leagues are building commercial and technological infrastructure largely from scratch. The opportunity set is cleaner and the cost of entry is lower.

The proof of concept exists. Through Gameday's work as the largest shareholder in Italy's Lega Volley Femminile, the infrastructure-layer model has demonstrated what it produces: a league that exceeded 1.4 billion digital views in a single season, became the second most-followed sports league in Italy and surpassed its own audience targets months ahead of schedule. The model isn't theoretical.

The window is time-limited. Markets move from infrastructure deficit to infrastructure saturation faster than most investors expect. The IPL's commercial sophistication today looks nothing like where it started. Other Indian leagues are earlier on that curve.

"The teams that win championships change. The platforms that run the leagues don't. India's sports economy is at the stage where the foundational decisions are being made. That's the moment we find interesting."

Gameday is in active dialogue across India's sports ecosystem and expects to share further details on its market engagement in due course.

About Gameday by NJF Holdings

Gameday by NJF Holdings is a sports investment and strategic platform founded by Nicole Junkermann. Focused on building long-term value across leagues, media and sports technology, its approach centres on structural growth, digital transformation and scalable fan ecosystems.

The platform is the largest shareholder in Italy's professional women's volleyball league, Lega Volley Femminile (LVF), where it is supporting league-level commercial and digital development. Gameday is also the creator of CayoTV, a next-generation sports media platform designed to expand access, engagement and modern distribution for live sport audiences.

For more information, visit gameday.team.

Ms Yamini Kumar Jaipuria championing the values of integrity, respect and inclusion through the global Fair Play movement, reinforcing the spirit of ethical and value-driven sport

The initiative also sought to advance Fair Play education across schools and universities with recommendations for integrating Fair Play into the National Education Policy (NEP 2020). Experts also discussed fostering international cooperation and encourage the integration of values such as respect, solidarity and ethical conduct into youth development and community programmes. Further, establishment of a National Fair Play Committee of India to coordinate Fair Play programmes, research, education, and policy advocacy was a key discussion.

The initiative was conceptualised with the support of Ms Yamini Kumar Jaipuria, Managing Trustee, Cosmo Foundation, who has been actively associated with international Fair Play initiatives. This was then organised in collaboration with the Dr. B.R. Ambedkar Sports Foundation and endorsed by the International Fair Play Committee (CIFP). The symposium marked one of the first large-scale World Fair Play Day celebrations in India and aimed to deepen India’s engagement with the global Fair Play movement while encouraging stronger collaboration among educational, sporting and social institutions.

In her special address, Ms Yamini Kumar Jaipuria, Managing Trustee Cosmo Foundation and Whole-time Director (Corporate Strategy, ESG and CSR), Cosmo First said, “Fair play is a universal language. Fair play is more than a game; it is a way of life. It is not about how you win, but how you play. By promoting values such as dignity, justice, respect and togetherness, we can create a better world not only through sport, but also in everyday life.”

In his keynote speech, Mr Sunil Sabharwal, President of CIFP, acknowledged the contribution of Ms Yamini Kumar Jaipuria and the invaluable support by Cosmo Foundation towards advancing the Fair Play movement in India and globally. He further emphasised the global responsibility to uphold ethics, integrity and respect in sport, while highlighting the importance of international cooperation in strengthening values-driven sports ecosystems. 

The symposium featured panel discussions on ethics in sports governance, the role of education in fostering sportsmanship, and the cultural significance of Fair Play in building peaceful and inclusive societies. Discussions focused on ethical leadership, transparency and accountability in sport, anti-doping frameworks, value-based education for youth, and the role of traditional sports in promoting community bonding, cultural preservation and social harmony. The event also included a Fair Play Pledge Ceremony and participation from national and international institutions associated with sports, education and Olympic values.

As the community outreach initiative of Cosmo First, Cosmo Foundation works across education, environment and empowerment initiatives, with programmes spanning multiple states and communities across India. Through its support for World Fair Play Day, the Foundation helped strengthen India’s leadership in the global Fair Play movement and reinforced international cooperation for ethical and value-driven sport. The symposium also helped catalyse conversations around expanding Fair Play education and building stronger collaborations among Indian and global institutions working in sports, education and social development.

About Cosmo Foundation
Cosmo Foundation was established in 2008 as the community outreach initiative of the Cosmo First Ltd, the largest manufacturers of BOPP worldwide. The Foundation works closely with less developed communities around its manufacturing units at the Karjan in the Vadodara District and Gangapur in the Chatrapati Sambhajinagar District as well as in Delhi, Himachal Pradesh, and tribal district Chhindwara of Madhya Pradesh. The organization works on several development programs aimed at Computer operation and digital skill building, Foundational Literacy, Numeracy, Life skills and English Communication, health and hygiene, Environment and Empowerment of women.

About Cosmo First Limited
Established in 1981 by Mr Ashok Jaipuria, Cosmo First Limited is an over four-decade-old global conglomerate. Its consumer vertical comprises Cosmo Consumer, which is into Window Films, Paint Protection Films & Ceramic Coatings for automobiles, and Zigly Pet Care, which provides a digital-first omni channel pet care ecosystem. Its industrial vertical includes Cosmo Films for specialty films for packaging, labels, lamination, and industrial applications; Cosmo Speciality Chemicals for coatings, adhesives and masterbatches, and Cosmo Plastech for rigid packaging. With sustainable innovation, development, and research embedded in its core values, Cosmo First serves customers in 100+ countries.

Paisabazaar, India’s leading financial marketplace and largest free credit score platform, announced the launch of a new integrated brand campaign for the Credit Premier League (CPL) featuring former Indian cricketer and commentator Irfan Pathan.

CPL is Paisabazaar’s marquee initiative aimed at recognising and rewarding consumers with strong credit health

CPL is Paisabazaar’s marquee initiative aimed at recognising and rewarding consumers with strong credit health, while making conversations around credit score more mainstream. Building on Paisabazaar’s decade-long efforts to drive credit awareness through its free credit score initiative, CPL combines engagement, gamification and rewards to encourage consumers to actively track, understand and improve their credit score.

Watch the Campaign: 

• www.youtube.com/watch?v=eL2J51MtgEo

• www.youtube.com/watch?v=sYImmk_eU6Y

The new campaign, featuring Irfan Pathan, uses a fun, high-energy, and engaging creative approach to combine the excitement of cricket with awareness around responsible credit behaviour. It was conceptualised by Magic Circle and shot by Emotion Pictures. The campaign will be amplified through a multi-platform rollout across television, digital and social media.

Speaking on the association, Irfan Pathan said, “Discipline, consistency and performance matter in cricket — and the same goes for your credit score. Excited to collaborate with Paisabazaar on CPL, a unique initiative that combines competition, rewards and awareness to make conversations around credit score more engaging. I loved being part of this fun, high-energy campaign that puts credit health in the spotlight like never before. Hopefully, it encourages more Indians to track, understand and improve a score that truly matters.”

Speaking about the campaign, Santosh Agarwal, CEO, Paisabazaar, said, "At Paisabazaar, our focus has always been on making credit score more accessible and engaging for consumers. With CPL, we bring together the energy of sport, entertainment and rewards to further scale this awareness initiative. Our exciting new collaboration with Irfan Pathan should help us take our campaign up further notches and drive deeper consumer engagement around credit score across the country."

The latest edition of CPL offers rewards bigger than ever before. Individual(s) with the highest credit 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 — the state with the highest average credit score — will also be rewarded.

Consumers can participate in CPL by checking their free credit score on the Paisabazaar app and platform.

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.

Parimatch Launches Exclusive IPL Mid-season Review with Eoin Morgan & Jonty Rhodes

Watching the Game Beyond the Scoreboard

What defines “Jonty & Eoin: Exclusive Indian T20 League Review” is its focus on expert interpretation over speculation. In a space often driven by odds and surface-level opinions, Parimatch positions this exclusive Indian T20 League mid-season review as a destination for deeper cricket intelligence. Fans who want to understand the game in depth will find this video compelling.

Rather than relying on blind luck, the Indian T20 League review is designed to help fans turn expert analysis into deeper understanding of match dynamics. Exclusive Review  is now available on official Parimatch platforms. Search “Jonty & Eoin: Exclusive” on YouTube to watch the full review and explore expert Indian T20 League predictions firsthand.

Why the Giants Are Struggling

Morgan’s analysis of Mumbai’s season highlights one of the biggest surprises of the tournament. “The one thing I’ve got completely wrong is how the Mumbai Indians were going to play… on paper they are as strong as anybody, but all of their senior players have underperformed,” he says.

Rhodes identifies a deeper structural issue in Chennai’s performances, pointing to a lack of leadership presence typically associated with MS Dhoni. “It’s almost as if the glue that was required to bring a team together just hasn’t been in existence,” he adds.

Young Talent on the Big Stage

The review also touches on rising young stars and the unusual pace at which they are breaking through. Morgan highlights 15-year-old Vaibhav Suryavanshi.

Morgan reacts with admiration: “He’s an incredible young talent… only 15 now, which is just ridiculous… I can’t wait for the call that comes through saying he can’t play today because he forgot to submit his homework, he’s in detention!”

What Fans Don’t Always See

Beyond predictions, the review also looks at the less visible side of the game. Rhodes explains why even simple-looking catches are anything but easy in modern cricket. “There’s no such thing as an easy catch,” he says. Morgan also talks about player workload, travel, and recovery, and how it affects performance across a long season.

Follow along to compare your own predictions with Eoin Morgan and Jonty Rhodes — and see how expert insight can reshape the way you read the game.

Nicole Junkermann points to Italian volleyball as a model for scaling women’s sport in India

The league had the same players, the same clubs and the same sporting product it had always had. What changed was the infrastructure around it.

For Nicole Junkermann, founder of Gameday by NJF Holdings and the driving force behind LVF's commercial transformation, those numbers are not primarily a story about Italian volleyball. They're a template. And the market she thinks they apply to most directly is India.

"LVF had world-class athletes, genuine fan interest and a product that could stand up against anything in European sport. What it didn't have was the commercial and digital machinery to capture that value. The gap between what the league was worth and what it was earning was enormous. That gap is what we invested in. India has versions of that gap in almost every women's sport it plays."

What the transformation looked like

Gameday became LVF's largest shareholder under a ten-year partnership structure, establishing a joint venture, Spike Media, to manage the league's full rights package. It deployed a technology stack designed to turn passive fan attention into measurable commercial output: content automation reduced the cost and turnaround time of highlight production; a content distribution platform enabled the league to push footage and branded assets directly to clubs, athletes and sponsors; AI-powered analytics tracked how content travelled across the global social media landscape, giving sponsors precise data on what their investment generated.

The results arrived faster than the league's own targets. LVF had set a goal of reaching one billion views across the full season. It surpassed that figure during the regular season alone, months ahead of schedule.

The Coppa Italia Final 4 illustrated what that infrastructure makes possible in practice. The event drew more than 25,000 spectators, a record for a volleyball event in Italy, supported by 38 days of pre-event social content and six embedded content creators. It was built as entertainment, not just sport.

The Indian parallel

India's women's sport landscape shares the structural characteristics that defined LVF before Gameday's involvement: genuine sporting quality, real audience interest and commercial infrastructure that hasn't kept pace with either.

The Women's Premier League offered a glimpse of what price discovery looks like when it arrives quickly. The inaugural season's media rights valuation surprised most observers. Franchise prices followed. The entry window for low-cost exposure to Indian women's cricket closed faster than anyone expected.

Other women's sports are earlier on the same curve. Women's kabaddi, volleyball and football each have growing audiences, committed athletes and leagues that have not yet built the commercial infrastructure to monetise what they have. The sporting foundations are there. The gap between what these leagues are worth and what they're earning is, in several cases, as wide as LVF's was before 2024.

"The economic case for women's sport has never been a values argument. It's a pricing argument. You invest before price discovery has happened, before sponsorship rates catch up with audience size, before media rights reflect actual demand. In Italy, that window is closing. In India, across several sports, it's still open."

Why the model travels

The LVF transformation wasn't dependent on Italian volleyball having unique characteristics. It was dependent on a gap between product quality and commercial capture, and on the existence of an audience that was reachable through modern digital channels.

India's women's sport market has both. What it additionally has is scale that Italy can't match: the world's largest young population, mobile-first consumption as the overwhelming default and a creator economy of enormous reach.

New leagues in India also have a structural advantage that LVF didn't: they can be designed correctly from the outset. Mobile-first fan engagement, creator partnerships and direct-to-consumer access as the architecture from day one, rather than retrofitted onto legacy broadcast structures built for a different era.

The LVF numbers are a proof of concept. The question for India's women's sport is not whether the model works. It's which leagues move first.

About Gameday by NJF Holdings

Gameday by NJF Holdings is a sports investment and strategic platform founded by Nicole Junkermann. Focused on building long-term value across leagues, media and sports technology, its approach centres on structural growth, digital transformation and scalable fan ecosystems.

The platform is the largest shareholder in Italy's professional women's volleyball league, Lega Volley Femminile (LVF), where it is supporting league-level commercial and digital development. Gameday is also the creator of CayoTV, a next-generation sports media platform designed to expand access, engagement and modern distribution for live sport audiences.

For more information, visit gameday.team.

The move signals Gameday's view that India's sports economy has reached an inflection point: audiences are large and growing, commercial interest is rising, but the data and technology infrastructure that converts fan attention into durable commercial value has not kept pace.
 

Nicole Junkermann: India’s sports future will be built on data, technology and audience infrastructure
 

"India generates some of the most intense sports consumption data in the world. The problem is that most of it disappears. Every match watched, every highlight shared, every fantasy team assembled produces a signal. But across India's sports ecosystem, those signals are fragmented, undercaptured and largely invisible to the leagues and investors who could use them most."
 

Gameday's platform approach, developed through its partnership with Lega Volley Femminile in Italy, centres on building what Nicole Junkermann describes as the infrastructure layer beneath sport: content automation, audience analytics, fan identity platforms, direct engagement tools and modern sponsorship measurement systems.
 

At LVF, Europe's leading women's volleyball league, the platform has supported a significant expansion in digital reach, content output and commercial partnerships since Gameday became the league's largest shareholder. The approach is now being applied to new markets, with India identified as the most significant near-term opportunity.
 

The data infrastructure gap

Junkermann argues that the gap between India's sporting ambition and its data infrastructure represents one of the most addressable structural problems in the country's sports economy.
 

The Indian Premier League consistently ranks among the most-watched sporting events globally. Football, kabaddi, volleyball and women's sport are adding new audiences at pace. Internet users are expected to exceed 900m within the next few years, with mobile-first consumption as the default across the country.
 

But the commercial infrastructure to capture, structure and monetise that audience behaviour is underdeveloped relative to the size of the opportunity.
 

"Compare what India's leagues have built to what the NFL, NBA and Premier League have developed over time. Their competitive advantages today aren't primarily about the sport. They're about the sophistication of the systems beneath it: personalisation engines, loyalty platforms, second-screen experiences, sponsorship measurement tools built on years of granular audience data. India can build those systems. It doesn't have legacy infrastructure to protect, which means it can build the right ones from scratch."
 

Leagues as data platforms

Gameday's approach treats leagues as data platforms rather than sports administrators. The commercial implications are significant: leagues that understand their audiences directly, rather than through intermediaries, can price sponsorship more accurately, distribute content more efficiently and build year-round fan relationships rather than seasonal spikes.
 

For India's growing portfolio of professional leagues, that shift in approach could materially change the long-term economics of the sector.
 

Gameday will share further details on its India market plans, including specific league and technology partnerships, in the coming months.

About Gameday by NJF Holdings

Gameday by NJF Holdings is a sports investment and strategic platform founded by Nicole Junkermann. Focused on building long-term value across leagues, media and sports technology, its approach centres on structural growth, digital transformation and scalable fan ecosystems.
 

Gameday is the largest shareholder in Italy's professional women's volleyball league, Lega Volley Femminile (LVF), where it is supporting league-level commercial and digital development.
 

For more information, visit gameday.team.

While AI is already reshaping how content is produced, distributed and consumed, the core of sport remains fundamentally human. Live competition, physical performance and unscripted outcomes are not easily replicated or automated.

Nicole Junkermann - the magic of sport can’t be replaced by an algorithm

According to Nicole Junkermann, founder of Gameday by NJF Holdings, this gives sport a unique position in the emerging AI economy.

“AI can enhance sport, analyse it and distribute it,” she says. “But it can’t replace it. The unpredictability of human competition is exactly what makes it valuable.”

This dynamic is becoming increasingly relevant in India, where sport is undergoing rapid commercial and cultural expansion.

Cricket remains dominant, with the Indian Premier League now one of the most valuable sports properties in the world. But growth is no longer limited to a single discipline. Football, kabaddi, badminton and women’s sport are all attracting rising audiences, investment and media attention.

At the same time, India is one of the most digitally connected markets globally. Hundreds of millions of fans consume sport through mobile devices, social platforms and streaming services. This creates a powerful intersection between technology and live content.

AI is accelerating that shift.

From personalised highlights and real-time analytics to fan engagement tools and data-driven sponsorship models, AI is transforming the way sport is experienced and monetised. But crucially, it is doing so without displacing the underlying product. Instead, it is amplifying it.

“Sport is becoming a kind of anchor asset in a digital world,” Junkermann says. “As more content becomes synthetic or automated, authentic live experiences become more valuable, not less.”

India is particularly well positioned to capitalise on this trend.

The country combines scale, passion and a young, mobile-first audience. Leagues such as the IPL and Pro Kabaddi League have already demonstrated how sport can be packaged, distributed and monetised in new ways. The next phase will involve deeper integration of technology to expand reach and engagement further.

This includes direct-to-consumer platforms, athlete-led content, creator partnerships and new commercial models built around data and personalisation.

It also includes the rise of women’s sport, which remains underpenetrated but is growing rapidly, both in India and globally. As investment increases, these leagues have the potential to scale quickly in a digital-first environment.

The broader implication is that sport is not being disrupted by AI in the same way as other sectors. It is being revalued.

In a world where algorithms can generate text, images and even video, the scarcity of genuine, unscripted human performance becomes more pronounced. That scarcity underpins long-term economic value.

“AI will change almost every industry,” Nicole Junkermann, who was born in 1980, adds. “But sport isn’t just content. It’s competition, identity and emotion. Those are much harder to automate.”

For India’s investors, media companies and policymakers, the opportunity is clear. By combining technological innovation with strong underlying sports assets, the country can build a more resilient and globally competitive sports ecosystem.

In the age of AI, that may prove to be a decisive advantage.

About Gameday by NJF Holdings

Gameday by NJF Holdings is a sports investment and strategic platform founded by Nicole Junkermann, born in 1980. Focused on building long-term value across leagues, media and sports technology, Gameday’s approach centres on structural growth, digital transformation and scalable fan ecosystems.

The platform is the largest shareholder in Italy’s professional women’s volleyball league, Lega Volley Femminile (LVF), where it is supporting league-level commercial and digital development. Gameday by NJF Holdings is also behind Cayo TV, a next-generation sports media platform designed to expand access, engagement and modern distribution for live sport audiences.

For more information visit: gameday.team

(L–R): Bharat Kumar Kandukuri, Srinivas Moramchetty, Ali Kasmani, Paresh Prabhakar, Puja Tomar, Saina Nehwal, Saurav Ghosal and Pavit Singh at Folium by Sumadhura launch, Bengaluru

The other dignitaries who graced the grand unveil included Paresh Prabhakar, Tiger Shroff’s mentor & Business Head at Matrix Dance Academy, Ali Kasmani, Head of Operations, Michael Phelps Swimming along with Mr. Srinivas Moramchetty, Director- Sales & Marketing, Sumadhura Group, Mr. Bharat Kumar Kandukuri, Director, Sumadhura Group and Pavit Singh, Founder, Ileseum Clubs.

Adding an unforgettable experiential layer to the evening, the event featured exclusive celebrity-led activities, where residents won a once-in-a-lifetime opportunity to experience immersive sessions with sports legends at their respective branded academies within the clubhouse. Participants stepped onto the court with Saina Nehwal for an interactive badminton session, rallied with Saurav Ghosal on the squash court, engaged in an energizing MMA session led by Puja Tomar, and joined high-energy, professionally guided dance sessions conducted by Matrix Dance Academy—adding a dynamic layer of creativity, movement, and engagement to the experience.

The event drew an impressive turnout of 1000+ participants including residents and lifestyle enthusiasts, reflecting strong interest in this pioneering concept.

With this collaboration at Folium by Sumadhura, world-class academies such as Michael Phelps Swimming, UFC FIT, Saurav Ghosal Squash, and Matrix Dance Academy are entering Bengaluru, bringing global-standard lifestyle experiences to the city. Additionally, Badminton Pros is launching its first-ever residential community academy in Bengaluru at Folium.

Commenting on this momentous occasion, Mr. Srinivas Moramchetty, Director-Sales & Marketing, Sumadhura Group said, “Folium is one of our signature developments, and this Branded Clubhouse reflects how we are reimagining urban living in Bengaluru. In a city shaped by long commutes and traffic, access to quality lifestyle experiences is often limited. With this initiative, Sumadhura has redefined and elevated urban lifestyles by bringing professionally managed, world-class sports, fitness, recreation, and wellness experiences directly into residents’ everyday lives, bringing in global experiences to one’s doorstep, eliminating the need to travel, and giving time back to what truly matters. For us, curating Bengaluru and Hyderabad’s first residential Branded Clubhouse goes far beyond convenience; it reflects a conscious effort to elevate lifestyle standards, enabling healthier routines, nurturing talent, and fostering stronger community connections. We have gone above and beyond to deliver a future-ready lifestyle that is active, seamless, and truly world-class for our customers.”

Expressing enthusiasm, Saina Nehwal, Co-Founder of Badminton Pros Academy said, ”Partnering with Folium to bring my badminton academy into a branded residential clubhouse alongside other iconic academies is a very special opportunity. In a city like Bengaluru, where badminton is deeply loved and part of the sporting culture, this initiative feels especially meaningful. It allows residents to access structured coaching, professional training, and best mentorship within their own community, bringing the sport closer to everyday life. This can help nurture young talent, encourage more families to take up badminton, and strengthen the city’s already vibrant sporting ecosystem, shaping India’s next generation of badminton champions and elevating the country’s presence on the global stage. I am happy to be part of a vision that makes world-class badminton a natural part of daily living.”

Managed by Ileseum Clubs - one of India’s fastest growing lifestyle delivery companies, the Branded Clubhouse at Folium is not just an amenity—it is a fully integrated, professionally curated lifestyle ecosystem. Through strategic collaborations with six globally recognized academies at Folium, residents gain unparalleled access to world-class training, featuring global, Olympic-level methodologies, thoughtfully designed programs, and immersive experiences delivered in association with distinguished academies such as:

• Badminton Pros by Saina Nehwal

• Saurav Ghosal Squash

• UFC FIT

• Matrix Dance Academy

• Michael Phelps Swimming

• Mahesh Bhupathi Tennis Academies

With Ileseum Clubs overseeing program design, global partnerships, certified coach onboarding, and day-to-day operations, the Branded Clubhouse at Folium benefits from strong operational and experiential support. This ensures seamless, year-round engagement that sustains wellness routines, skill development, and continuous talent progression for residents.

Sumadhura Group plans to integrate Branded Clubhouses across select upcoming marquee residential projects in Bengaluru.

About Sumadhura Group

With three decades of legacy, Sumadhura Group is known for its prime locations, ahead-of-time delivery, high quality, and smart design in residential, commercial and warehousing projects, catering to a cross-section of home buyers and business entities in the real estate landscape of South India.

Sumadhura’s unique customer-centric approach and commitment to delivering excellence and superior products have earned the company-wide recognition as a credible and reliable entity in the industry, across Bengaluru and Hyderabad. The brand promise of “Foundation of Happiness” mirrors the group’s commitment to becoming the very foundation upon which happiness is built.

With over 56 projects delivered, spanning over 17 million square feet, and over 40 million square feet in the pipeline, Sumadhura has emerged as a prominent brand in the fast-evolving market of developers. Evolving beyond residential developments, the group has expanded its portfolio into commercial, warehousing, co-living, and other real estate verticals to cater to diverse customer needs.

Bisleri Champions Hydration at TCS World 10K Bengaluru 2026

To ensure a world-class experience, Bisleri deploys 8 hydration stations and innovative Mist Zones at the Manekshaw Parade Ground finish area, providing runners with an essential cooling relief during the final stretch on Cubbon Road. Hydration support will be comprehensive across all categories, including the Open 10K, Senior Citizen Run, and the 4.2km Majja Run.

Commenting on the association, Tushar Malhotra, Director of Sales & Marketing, Bisleri International, said, “The TCS World 10K Bengaluru is a spectacular celebration of the city’s athletic and community spirit. Our long-standing collaboration with Procam International is a cornerstone of our commitment to championing hydration at the largest participative sport spectacle in the country. We are also thrilled to have Prakash Padukone and Anisha Padukone headlining our presence.”

Mr.Vivek Singh, Jt.MD. Procam International, “Our journey with Bisleri has been instrumental in shaping the TCS World 10K Bengaluru into a world-class event. Hydration is the backbone of any race, and having a partner that understands the technical demands of elite athletes while celebrating the spirit of the running community is invaluable. This year, having legends like Prakash Padukone and Anisha Padukone join the fold further elevates the event, making it a true celebration of fitness and endurance for the city.”

Mr. Prakash Padukone, Athlete, “The TCS World 10K Bengaluru continues to inspire with its spirit of resilience and community. Hydration remains key to every athlete’s performance, and Bisleri has truly elevated the experience with its seamless support. The Limited Edition bottles are a fitting tribute to our marathon icons and their legacy.”

Ms. Anisha Padukone, Mental Health Advocate & Fitness Enthusiast, “Fitness is as much about mental resilience as it is about physical endurance, and the TCS World 10K is the ultimate celebration of that balance. It is inspiring to see the Bengaluru community come together in such a positive and high-spirited way. I am happy to be part of this journey with Bisleri, ensuring that every runner is empowered and hydrated as they push their limits and celebrate their personal milestones."

Sustainability remains at the heart of this partnership through Bisleri’s ‘Greener Promise’ initiative. The event will showcase benches made from recycled plastic at key rest spots, serving as a tangible reminder of the brand’s commitment to responsible living and a circular economy. Additionally, celebrating the athletic spirit of the city, Bisleri launched Limited Edition bottles featuring iconic marathoners, Soniya, Abhishek Pal and Harmanjot Singh.

From ensuring peak performance through hydration to leading environmental action, Bisleri continues to champion both the runner and the planet.

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.

Viknesh Jain & Abhishek Jain with the Euronics Team at ECCL Season 3

At a time when the popularity of the Indian Premier League has reinforced cricket’s ability to bring people together across cities, industries and communities, corporate cricket leagues are emerging as a new way for brands and businesses to create stronger employee engagement and industry relationships. In India, cricket has increasingly moved beyond being just a sport to becoming a platform for connection, identity and shared experiences, and ECCL reflects that same shift within the corporate ecosystem.

The Mumbai leg marked the culmination of the multi-city tournament, featuring 24 teams competing across 23 matches. Over the season, ECCL saw participation from companies spanning real estate, architecture, design and allied corporate sectors, with 20 to 50 organisations participating in each city edition. Leading brands such as K Raheja Corp, Sobha Limited, CBRE, Prestige Group, Colliers, Knight Frank, Cushman & Wakefield and Space Matrix were among the participants.

Moving beyond conventional networking formats such as meetings, exhibitions and conferences, ECCL is positioned as a sport-led platform that enables professionals to build relationships outside formal business settings. By bringing teams together on the field rather than across boardrooms, the initiative creates a more informal and collaborative environment for engagement across the ecosystem.

Delhi NCR saw the highest participation with 48 teams, where Design Forum International emerged as champions and Proion Consultants finished as runners-up. In Bengaluru, Team Zyeta secured the title, with Team CBRE as runners-up, while Hyderabad hosted 16 teams, with RK Interiors CFS (India) Pvt Ltd emerging as champions and Interia finishing as runners-up. The Mumbai finale saw Architect Hafeez Contractor crowned champions, with HOSMAC India Pvt. Ltd. finishing as runners-up.

Speaking on the conclusion of Season 3, Viknesh Jain said: “Cricket has always had a unique ability to bring people together in India and the IPL has shown how the sport can create a sense of community, identity and engagement far beyond the game itself. ECCL brings that same spirit into the corporate world. What started as a cricket tournament has steadily evolved into a platform where professionals step away from formal roles, connect more openly and build stronger business relationships. The scale we are seeing today, with participation from over 200 companies across four cities, reflects a growing need for more human, experience-led ways of building business ecosystems.”

Abhishek Jain added: “What makes ECCL work is the shift in context. When architects, developers, consultants and corporate teams come together on the field, conversations change and hierarchies dissolve. It creates a more natural way for people to connect, which is often difficult to achieve in formal business environments. Increasingly, brands are recognising that cricket can be a powerful platform not only for visibility, but also for building stronger communities within and around their organisations.”

Over three seasons, ECCL has steadily evolved into a platform that brings together diverse industry voices through shared experiences, reinforcing Euronics’ focus on building communities alongside its core business.

According to Nicole Junkermann, founder of Gameday by NJF Holdings, the most significant long-term opportunities may lie beyond individual teams and headline franchise valuations, and instead in the strength of leagues themselves.
 

Nicole Junkermann: The Future of Sport Will Be Built at League Level
 

India’s success in cricket has already demonstrated the power of league-based sport at scale. From franchise models and media rights to sponsorship, digital engagement and fan loyalty, cricket has shown how professionally structured competitions can create enormous enterprise value.

But Nicole Junkermann believes that story is only the beginning.

“What cricket has proven in India is that sport, when organised well, can become a powerful economic platform,” said Nicole Junkermann. “The next opportunity is to apply those lessons across a broader sporting ecosystem.”

As India’s sports economy expands across media, technology, infrastructure and fan engagement, she believes the next wave of value creation will come from stronger league ecosystems built for scale, consistency and modern audiences.

India has already demonstrated what is possible when sport meets ambition, entrepreneurship and digital adoption. Large audiences, strong brand engagement and mobile-first consumption have helped create one of the world’s most dynamic markets for live sport.

But the opportunity now extends beyond cricket alone.

Across football, volleyball, kabaddi, women’s sport and emerging formats, India has the foundations to build multiple high-growth properties over the coming decade.

Nicole Junkermann said markets that invest early in league structures, technology platforms and fan ecosystems are likely to be best placed as the sector matures.

“When leagues invest in common capabilities - media production, scheduling, governance systems, data infrastructure and direct fan relationships - they become stronger commercial platforms,” she said. “That benefits teams, athletes, sponsors, broadcasters and supporters alike.”

The comments come at a time of rising international interest in India’s consumer economy and digital entertainment sector. With a young population, growing disposable income and deep digital habits, India is increasingly viewed as a market where sport can scale rapidly and sustainably.

She also highlighted women’s sport as a major growth area, where professional league models can accelerate participation, visibility and long-term sponsorship demand.

“The future of sport will belong to markets that think beyond the next season,” said Junkermann. “India has the talent, the audience and the ambition to build platforms with global relevance.”

Through Gameday by NJF Holdings, Nicole Junkermann has backed a long-term approach to sport focused on structural growth, digital transformation and league-level value creation across international markets.

As India’s sports ecosystem continues to evolve, attention is increasingly turning to what comes next.

About Gameday by NJF Holdings
Gameday by NJF Holdings is a sports investment and strategic platform founded by Nicole Junkermann, focused on building long-term value across leagues, media and sports technology. Its approach centres on structural growth, digital transformation and scalable fan ecosystems.

The platform is the largest shareholder in Italy’s professional women’s volleyball league, Lega Volley Femminile (LVF), where it is supporting league-level commercial and digital development. Gameday by NJF Holdings is also behind Cayo TV, a next-generation sports media platform designed to expand access, engagement and modern distribution for live sport audiences.

For more information visit: www.njfsportsandmedia.com.

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.