Sunday, April 20
Altay Bayindir stood out as Manchester United narrowly defeated Arsenal in a gripping FA Cup match at the Emirates. The game finished 1-1 after normal time, with United winning 5-4 on penalties. Bayindir's crucial saves, particularly during the shootout, secured United's progression to the fourth round.
Barcelona convincingly beat Real Madrid 5-2 in the Spanish Super Cup final in Saudi Arabia, marking their first title under Hansi Flick. Despite an early lead by Kylian Mbappe, Barcelona's goals from Lamine Yamal, Robert Lewandowski, Raphinha, and Alejandro Balde ensured their victory. Wojciech Szczesny received a red card, adding to the intensity.
The SA20 Season 3 match between Pretoria Capitals and Durban's Super Giants in Centurion was abandoned due to persistent rain. Despite attempts to start play and inspections by officials, conditions remained unplayable. Both teams received two points each, and ticket holders are eligible for refunds as per the league's policy.
Former Australian cricket star praised Jasprit Bumrah, suggesting that legendary batter Don Bradman wouldn't have achieved his famed batting average if he faced Bumrah. Bumrah's performance in the Border-Gavaskar Trophy included 32 wickets, earning him top-wicket-taker status. His achievements in 2024 showcased his dominance, as he impressed both in international cricket and the IPL.
Yograj Singh has backed Rohit Sharma and Virat Kohli for the upcoming 2025 Champions Trophy despite their poor performance in the Border-Gavaskar Trophy series against Australia. He emphasizes the importance of their presence in grooming young talent. Singh also praised the IPL's role in improving Indian cricket and lauded the BCCI's support for women's cricket.
Novak Djokovic started his quest for an 11th Australian Open title and a 25th Grand Slam, overcoming a tough opening against Nishesh Basavareddy. The American teenager took the first set, but Djokovic prevailed 4-6, 6-3, 6-4, 6-2. Under new coach Andy Murray, Djokovic aims to surpass Margaret Court's record.
In a thrilling finish at the Dubai International Stadium, Tom Kohler-Cadmore’s unbeaten 83 guided Sharjah Warriorz to a three-wicket victory over the Gulf Giants. Chasing 175, Kohler-Cadmore and Rohan Mustafa's 45 helped stabilise the innings after an early wobble. Tim Southee's 3/30 restricted the Giants to 174/7. The win highlighted Warriorz's resilience under pressure.
Shreyas Iyer becomes the first Indian cricketer to lead three different IPL teams, as he is named Punjab Kings captain for the 2025 season. Earlier, he led Kolkata Knight Riders to victory in 2024 and guided Delhi Capitals to the final in 2020. Iyer joins Mahela Jayawardene and Steve Smith in achieving this feat.
Legendary cricketer Sachin Tendulkar's son, Arjun, briefly trained under former India cricketer Yograj Singh in 2022. Yograj explained that people didn't want Arjun's name associated with him after he scored a hundred in the Ranji Trophy and secured an IPL contract post their 12-day training period.
Veteran pacer Mohammed Shami returns after 14 months for India in the five-match T20 series against England. His comeback is crucial, providing experience, leadership, and effective death-over bowling, crucial for India's T20 setup and as preparation for the ICC Champions Trophy and T20 World Cup.
