Portuguese soccer star Cristiano Ronaldo has announced that this World Cup will be his last, with Portugal preparing for their round of 16 match against Spain that will take place on Monday in Dallas. 

The 41-year-old has played in the last six editions of the tournament, becoming the first ever player to score in six. Ronaldo says he won’t be playing at the 2030 edition that will also be co-hosted by Portugal, alongside Spain and Morocco. 

Speaking ahead of the match against Spain, Ronaldo said, “This will be my last World Cup, but let’s hope tomorrow isn’t my last game.”

The soccer star has scored three goals so far at the World Cup. Two against Uzbekistan and then his first ever goal in the knockout stages against Croatia, when he scored a penalty. Ronaldo didn’t mention anything about a potential retirement, just that simply he won’t play another World Cup.

“The day will come, but I’ll be honest — whatever happens tomorrow, Cristiano will leave with a clear conscience, not 100%, but 1000%. Because I’ve given everything in soccer. I don’t need it, I have a good life, but it’s about passion. I play football because I love it … You have to enjoy every day. And I’ve scored three goals so far. I’m not doing too badly, right?”

He was also asked about his thoughts on his rival on Monday, Lamine Yamal.

“He’s a player with a big future. But for me, I always see Spain as a whole, they’re all good … The more prepared you are, the better you’ll survive a long football career, if that’s what you want. If you listen to criticism, you’re lost. 

There’s constructive criticism, and there’s criticism meant to kill you, too. You have to adapt if you want a long career, and focus on the love, the passion of the fans. Over time, I learned to be connected to the people who love you, and have passion for what you’re doing.” (CBS)

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Argentina captain Lionel Messi has added four more Guinness World Records to his name following his latest appearance at the FIFA World Cup.

In a post on social media, Guinness World Records said Messi broke four records in a single day, further cementing his place among football’s greatest players.

According to Guinness World Records, Messi now holds the record for the most FIFA World Cup goals scored by a football player with 18 goals.

He has also set new records for the most FIFA World Cup matches played by an individual (28), the most World Cup matches won by a player (18), and the most minutes played in FIFA World Cup history (2,489).

“We are witnessing history,” Guinness World Records said while highlighting the latest milestones achieved by the Argentine star.

The records add to an already remarkable career for Messi, who has won multiple Ballon d’Or awards, lifted the FIFA World Cup with Argentina, and continues to rewrite football’s record books at the age of 39.

His latest achievements come as Argentina continue their campaign at the 2026 FIFA World Cup, with Messi once again playing a central role for the defending world champions. (Newswire)

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The 23rd edition of the FIFA World Cup — the biggest ever — will see 48 nations compete for the prize in a 39-day tournament in Canada, Mexico, and the United States.

Sixteen venues across the three nations will host 104 matches as the tournament returns to North America after 32 years.

Argentina will look to defend the trophy they lifted under their iconic captain, Lionel Messi, at Qatar 2022, while Cape Verde, Curacao, Jordan, and Uzbekistan will make their debut at the finals.

The tournament will begin in Mexico and conclude in the US.

Here’s everything you need to know about its teams, groups, format and schedule.

What are the groups and teams for the FIFA World Cup 2026?

Group A: Mexico, South Africa, Korea Republic, Czechia
Group B: Canada, Bosnia and Herzegovina, Qatar, Switzerland
Group C: Brazil, Morocco, Haiti, Scotland
Group D: United States, Paraguay, Australia, Turkiye
Group E: Germany, Curacao, Ivory Coast, Ecuador
Group F: Netherlands, Japan, Sweden, Tunisia
Group G: Belgium, Egypt, Iran, New Zealand
Group H: Spain, Cape Verde, Saudi Arabia, Uruguay
Group I: France, Senegal, Iraq, Norway
Group J: Argentina, Algeria, Austria, Jordan
Group K: Portugal, DR Congo, Uzbekistan, Colombia
Group L: England, Croatia, Ghana, Panama

When and where is the opening match of the FIFA World Cup 2026?

The tournament will open on June 11 at 3pm (21:00 GMT) at the Mexico City Stadium in Mexico.

When and where is the final of the FIFA World Cup 2026?

The MetLife Stadium, which will be called the New York New Jersey Stadium during the tournament, will host the final on July 19 at 3pm (20:00 GMT).

Why has FIFA changed the names of the stadiums hosting World Cup matches?

In a move to restrict ambush marketing for brands not associated with FIFA, the governing body has changed stadium names for all venues to match the host city.

Therefore, the MetLife Stadium in New Jersey has been rebranded as the New York New Jersey Stadium, and the SoFi Stadium in Los Angeles has been renamed the Los Angeles Stadium for the tournament.

What’s the format of the FIFA World Cup 2026?

The tournament will consist of one group-stage round and four knockout rounds before the final.

Unlike previous editions, the knockouts will begin with the round of 32, followed by the round of 16, the four quarterfinals and two semifinals.

The stage-wise breakdown of the tournament’s schedule is:

• Group stage: June 11 June 27
• Round of 32: June 28 to July 3
• Round of 16: July 4-7
• Quarterfinals: July 9-11
• Semifinals: July 14-15
• Bronze medal match: July 18
• Final: July 19

What’s the full match schedule of the World Cup?

Group stage

• Thursday, June 11

Mexico vs South Africa at 3pm (21:00 GMT) – Mexico City Stadium, Mexico City, Mexico

South Korea vs Czechia at 10pm (04:00 GMT on Friday) – Estadio Guadalajara, Zapopan, Mexico

• Friday, June 12

Canada vs Bosnia at 3pm (20:00 GMT) – Toronto Stadium, Toronto, Canada

USA vs Paraguay at 9pm (05:00 GMT on Saturday) – Los Angeles Stadium, Los Angeles, US

• Saturday, June 13

Qatar vs Switzerland at 3pm (23:00 GMT) – San Francisco Bay Area Stadium, San Francisco, US

Brazil vs Morocco at 6pm (23:00 GMT) – New York New Jersey Stadium, New Jersey, US

Haiti vs Scotland at 9pm (02:00 GMT on Sunday) – Boston Stadium, Boston, US

Australia vs Turkiye at midnight (08:00 GMT on Sunday) – BC Place, Vancouver, Canada

• Sunday, June 14

Germany vs Curacao at 1pm (19:00 GMT) – Houston Stadium, Houston, US

Netherlands vs Japan at 4pm (22:00 GMT) – Dallas Stadium, Dallas, US

Ivory Coast vs Ecuador at 7pm (00:00 GMT on Monday) – Philadelphia Stadium, Philadelphia, US

Sweden vs Tunisia at 10pm (04:00 GMT on Monday) – Estadio Monterrey, Guadalupe, Mexico

• Monday, June 15

Spain vs Cape Verde at 12pm (17:00 GMT) – Atlanta Stadium, Atlanta, US

Belgium vs Egypt at 3pm (23:00 GMT) – BC Place, Vancouver, Canada

Saudi Arabia vs Uruguay at 6pm (23:00 GMT) – Miami Stadium, Miami, US

Iran vs New Zealand at 9pm (05:00 GMT on Tuesday) – Los Angeles Stadium, Los Angeles, US

• Tuesday, June 16

France vs Senegal at 3pm (20:00 GMT) – New York New Jersey Stadium, New Jersey, US

Iraq vs Norway at 6pm (23:00 GMT) – Boston Stadium, Boston, US

Argentina vs Algeria at 9pm (03:00 GMT on Wednesday) – Kansas City Stadium, Kansas City, US

Austria vs Jordan at midnight (08:00 GMT on Wednesday) – San Francisco Bay Area Stadium, San Francisco, US

• Wednesday, June 17

Portugal vs DRC at 1pm (19:00 GMT) – Houston Stadium, Houston, US

England vs Croatia at 4pm (22:00 GMT) – Dallas Stadium, Dallas, US

Ghana vs Panama at 7pm (00:00 GMT on Thursday) – Toronto Stadium, Toronto, Canada

Uzbekistan vs Colombia at 10pm (04:00 GMT on Thursday) – Mexico City Stadium, Mexico City, Mexico

• Thursday, June 18

Czechia vs South Africa at 12pm (17:00 GMT) – Atlanta Stadium, Atlanta, US

Switzerland vs Bosnia at 3pm (23:00 GMT) – Los Angeles Stadium, Los Angeles, US

Canada vs Qatar at 6pm (02:00 GMT on Friday) – BC Place, Vancouver, Canada

Mexico vs South Korea at 9pm (03:00 GMT on Friday) – Estadio Guadalajara, Zapopan, Mexico

• Friday, June 19

Scotland vs Morocco at 6pm (23:00 GMT) – Boston Stadium, Boston, US

USA vs Australia at 3pm (23:00 GMT) – Seattle Stadium, Seattle, US

Brazil vs Haiti at 9pm (02:00 GMT on Saturday) – Philadelphia Stadium, Philadelphia, US

Turkiye vs Paraguay at midnight (08:00 GMT on Saturday) – San Francisco Bay Area Stadium, San Francisco, US

• Saturday, June 20

Netherlands vs Sweden at 1pm (19:00 GMT) – Houston Stadium, Houston, US

Germany vs Ivory Coast at 4pm (21:00 GMT) – Toronto Stadium, Toronto, Canada

Ecuador vs Curacao at 8pm (04:00 GMT on Sunday) – Kansas City Stadium, Kansas City, US

Tunisia vs Japan at midnight (06:00 GMT on Sunday) – Estadio Monterrey, Guadalupe, Mexico

• Sunday, June 21

Spain vs Saudi Arabia at 12pm (17:00 GMT) – Atlanta Stadium, Atlanta, US

Belgium vs Iran at 3pm (23:00 GMT) – Los Angeles Stadium, Los Angeles, US

Uruguay vs Cape Verde at 6pm (23:00 GMT) – Miami Stadium, Miami, US

New Zealand vs Egypt at 9pm (05:00 GMT on Monday) – BC Place, Vancouver, Canada

• Monday, June 22

Argentina vs Austria at 1pm (19:00 GMT) – Dallas Stadium, Dallas, US

France vs Iraq at 5pm (22:00 GMT) – Philadelphia Stadium, Philadelphia, US

Norway vs Senegal at 8pm (01:00 GMT on Tuesday) – New York New Jersey Stadium, New Jersey, US

Jordan vs Algeria at 11pm (07:00 GMT on Tuesday) – San Francisco Bay Area Stadium, San Francisco, US

• Tuesday, June 23

Portugal vs Uzbekistan at 1pm (19:00 GMT) – Houston Stadium, Houston, US

England vs Ghana at 4pm (21:00 GMT) – Boston Stadium, Boston, US

Panama vs Croatia at 7pm (00:00 GMT on Wednesday) – Toronto Stadium, Toronto, Canada

Colombia vs DRC at 10pm (04:00 GMT on Wednesday) – Estadio Guadalajara, Zapopan, Mexico

• Wednesday, June 24

Switzerland vs Canada at 3pm (23:00 GMT) – BC Place, Vancouver, Canada

Bosnia vs Qatar at 3pm (23:00 GMT) – Seattle Stadium, Seattle, US

Scotland vs Brazil at 6pm (23:00 GMT) – Miami Stadium, Miami, US

Morocco vs Haiti at 6pm (23:00 GMT) – Atlanta Stadium, Atlanta, US

Czechia vs Mexico at 9pm (03:00 GMT on Thursday) – Mexico City Stadium, Mexico City, Mexico

South Africa vs South Korea at 9pm (03:00 GMT on Thursday) – Estadio Monterrey, Guadalupe, Mexico

• Thursday, June 25

Ecuador vs Germany at 4pm (21:00 GMT) – New York New Jersey Stadium, New Jersey, US

Curacao vs Ivory Coast at 4pm (21:00 GMT) – Philadelphia Stadium, Philadelphia, US

Japan vs Sweden at 7pm (01:00 GMT on Friday) – Dallas Stadium, Dallas, US

Tunisia vs Netherlands at 7pm (01:00 GMT on Friday) – Kansas City Stadium, Kansas City, US,

Turkiye vs USA at 10pm (06:00 GMT on Friday) – Los Angeles Stadium, Los Angeles, US

Paraguay vs Australia at 10pm (06:00 GMT on Friday) – San Francisco Bay Area Stadium, San Francisco, US

• Friday, June 26

Norway vs France at 3pm (20:00 GMT) – Boston Stadium, Boston, US

Senegal vs Iraq at 3pm (20:00 GMT) – Toronto Stadium, Toronto, Canada

Cape Verde vs Saudi Arabia at 8pm (02:00 GMT on Saturday) – Houston Stadium, Houston, US

Uruguay vs Spain at 8pm (02:00 GMT on Saturday) – Estadio Guadalajara, Zapopan, Mexico

Egypt vs Iran at 11pm (07:00 GMT on Saturday) – Seattle Stadium, Seattle, US

New Zealand vs Belgium at 11pm (07:00 GMT on Saturday) – BC Place, Vancouver, Canada

• Saturday, June 27

Panama vs England at 5pm (22:00 GMT) – New York New Jersey Stadium, New Jersey, US

Croatia vs Ghana at 5pm (22:00 GMT) – Philadelphia Stadium, Philadelphia, US

Colombia vs Portugal at 7:30pm (02:30 GMT on Sunday) – Miami Stadium, Miami, US

DRC vs Uzbekistan at 7:30pm (02:30 GMT on Sunday) – Atlanta Stadium, Atlanta, US

Algeria vs Austria at 10pm (04:00 GMT on Sunday) – Kansas City Stadium, Kansas City, US

Jordan vs Argentina at 10pm (04:00 GMT on Sunday) – Dallas Stadium, Dallas, US

Knockout stage

Sunday, June 28

Round of 32 match at 3pm (23:00 GMT) – Los Angeles Stadium, Los Angeles, US

• Monday, June 29

Round of 32 match at 1pm (19:00 GMT) – Houston Stadium, Houston, US

Round of 32 match at 4:30pm (22:30 GMT) – Boston Stadium, Boston, US

Round of 32 match at 9pm (03:00 GMT on Tuesday) – Estadio Monterrey, Guadalupe, Mexico

• Tuesday, June 30

Round of 32 match at 1pm (19:00 GMT) – Dallas Stadium, Dallas, US

Round of 32 match at 5pm (22:00 GMT) – New York New Jersey Stadium, New Jersey, US

Round of 32 match at 9pm (03:00 GMT on Wednesday) – Mexico City Stadium, Mexico City, Mexico

• Wednesday, July 1

Round of 32 match at 12pm (17:00 GMT) – Atlanta Stadium, Atlanta, US

Round of 32 match at 4pm (00:00 GMT on Thursday) – Seattle Stadium, Seattle, US

Round of 32 match at 8pm (04:00 GMT on Thursday) – San Francisco Bay Area Stadium, San Francisco, US

• Thursday, July 2

Round of 32 match at 3pm (23:00 GMT) – Los Angeles Stadium, Los Angeles, US

Round of 32 match at 7pm (00:00 GMT on Friday) – Toronto Stadium, Toronto, Canada

Round of 32 match at 11pm (07:00 GMT on Friday) – BC Place, Vancouver, Canada

• Friday, July 3

Round of 32 match at 2pm (21:00 GMT) – Dallas Stadium, Dallas, US

Round of 32 match at 6pm (23:00 GMT) – Miami Stadium, Miami, US

Round of 32 match at 9:30pm (03:30 GMT on Saturday) – Kansas City Stadium, Kansas City, US

• Saturday, July 4

Round of 16 match at 1pm (19:00 GMT) – Houston Stadium, Houston, US

Round of 16 match at 5pm (22:00 GMT) – Philadelphia Stadium, Philadelphia, US

• Sunday, July 5

Round of 16 match at 4pm (21:00 GMT) – New York New Jersey Stadium, New Jersey, US

Round of 16 match at 8pm (02:00 GMT on Monday) – Mexico City Stadium, Mexico City, Mexico

• Monday, July 6

Round of 16 match at 3pm (21:00 GMT) – Dallas Stadium, Dallas, US

Round of 16 match at 8pm (04:00 GMT on Tuesday) – Seattle Stadium, Seattle, US

• Tuesday, July 7

Round of 16 match at 12pm (17:00 GMT) – Atlanta Stadium, Atlanta, US

Round of 16 match at 4pm (00:00 GMT on Wednesday) – BC Place, Vancouver, Canada

• Thursday, 9 July

First quarterfinal at 4pm (21:00 GMT) – Boston Stadium, Boston, US

• Friday, 10 July

Second quarterfinal at 3pm (23:00 GMT) – Los Angeles Stadium, Los Angeles, US

• Saturday, July 11

Third quarterfinal at 5pm (22:00 GMT) –  Miami Stadium, Miami, US

Fourth quarterfinal at 9pm (03:00 GMT on Sunday) – Kansas City Stadium, Kansas City, US

• Tuesday, July 14

First semifinal at 3pm (21:00 GMT) – Dallas Stadium, Dallas, US

• Wednesday, July 15

Second semifinal at 3pm (20:00 GMT) – Atlanta Stadium, Atlanta, US

• Saturday, July 18

Bronze medal match at 5pm (22:00 GMT) – Miami Stadium, Miami, US

• Sunday, July 19

Final at 3pm (20:00 GMT) – New York New Jersey Stadium, New Jersey, US. (Al Jazeera)

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Members of Sri Lanka’s historic 1996 World Cup–winning team will gather in Kuala Lumpur this May to mark the 30th anniversary of their triumph, it was reported. 

According to a report by Free Malaysia Today, the celebrations will be hosted at the Royal Selangor Club, beginning with a gala dinner on May 15, followed by an exhibition match on May 16 at the Bukit Kiara ground, where the Sri Lankans will face a Rest of the World side.

Organizers say the event is designed to inspire as much as it commemorates. Former Malaysian cricketer Devindran Ramanathan, who is helping shape the programme, stressed that the reunion must create opportunities for young players. “This is not just about a World Cup win,” he said. “It is about showing young players what is possible.”

As part of the initiative, about 20 Orang Asli schoolboys from Hulu Perak will be brought to Kuala Lumpur to take part in a coaching clinic conducted by the Sri Lankan legends. 

Each participant requires sponsorship of RM500, with organizers aiming to raise RM10,000 to support the youngsters and provide equipment over the next three months. Devindran emphasized, “The real impact is not the match or the dinner. It is whether a young player leaves believing they can go further.”

Former Malaysian captain Selvaratnam Karunakarer added that the deeper value of the gathering lies in what it can spark: “For young players, especially those outside traditional pathways, that connection can shift how they see the sport. It reduces distance. It makes the game feel reachable.”

The reunion also recalls one of cricket’s most defining chapters. On March 17, 1996, under the floodlights of Lahore’s Gaddafi Stadium, Sri Lanka stunned Australia to win their first World Cup. Chasing 242, Aravinda de Silva’s unbeaten 107 and captain Arjuna Ranatunga’s calm leadership sealed victory, while the aggressive batting of Sanath Jayasuriya and Romesh Kaluwitharana throughout the tournament reshaped one-day cricket.

Three decades later, that triumph continues to resonate, not just as a memory, but as a reminder that cricket’s pathways are open to those willing to challenge convention. (Newswire/ Free Malaysia Today)

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A special traffic plan will be in effect in Colombo for the ICC T20 World Cup 2026 match between Sri Lanka and New Zealand, scheduled at 7.00 pm at the R. Premadasa International Stadium in Colombo today. 

According to the Police, large crowds of local and foreign spectators are expected to attend the cricket match.

As such, the Colombo Traffic Division has announced the following traffic arrangements:

Restricted Entry Routes to the Stadium

• Vinson Perera Mawatha (Grandpass Road), from Britto Babapulle Bridge junction towards Babapulle.
• Entry near Babapulle Bridge towards the stadium.
• Sebastian Canal Road, near Malwatta Bridge, towards the stadium.
• 100 Feet Road, from the Pansala Road junction towards the stadium.
• Maligawatta Lane, via by‑roads near the stadium.
• Saddharma Mawatha, from Pansala Road (Bakheththaram Road) junction towards Pansala Road.

Parking Facilities  

In addition to parking around the R. Premadasa Stadium, facilities will be available at Grandpass Matti Park, Sathosa parking, Sebastian Canal parking, Kovil Road, Apple Watte, and both sides of 100 Feet Road.

Security Measures  

Police officers and plain‑clothes intelligence personnel will be deployed for spectator safety. Bringing large bags, glass bottles, drones, sharp objects, narcotics, or alcohol is strictly prohibited.

CCTV monitoring, body checks, and vehicle inspections will be carried out before the match begins. 

The Police have requested full cooperation from spectators to ensure smooth operations. (Newswire)

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The ICC Men’s T20 World Cup 2026 Trophy was displayed to the media this morning.

Sri Lanka T20I Captain Dasun Shanaka and national player Matheesha Pathirana took part in the Trophy Display.

Today marked the third day of the Sri Lanka leg of the ICC Men’s T20 World Cup Trophy Tour.

Tomorrow, the trophy will be displayed at Havelock City Mall from 10:00 am, giving the public an opportunity to view the trophy and capture photographs and selfies.

The ICC Men’s T20 World Cup 2026 will be held from 7 February to 8 March and will be co-hosted by India and Sri Lanka. (ICC)

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Bangladesh’s scheduled matches in the ICC Men’s T20 World Cup, set to begin next month, are unlikely to be moved to Sri Lanka despite formal requests from the Bangladesh Cricket Board (BCB), with Chennai and Thiruvananthapuram emerging as potential alternative venues within India, according to multiple reports. 

The BCB has twice formally written to the International Cricket Council, seeking to shift its fixtures out of India amid security and safety concerns following rising tensions between the two countries, including an earlier controversy after star pacer Mustafizur Rahman was released from an Indian Premier League squad. 

Bangladesh officials have insisted they would prefer all their World Cup matches to be played in co-host Sri Lanka rather than in India, arguing that the safety and well-being of players, support staff and visiting journalists must be ensured. However, the ICC and the Board of Control for Cricket in India are reportedly exploring the option of relocating the scheduled games to other venues within India rather than overseas, given logistical challenges so close to the tournament start. 

Possible alternative cities under consideration include Chennai and Thiruvananthapuram, with officials from the Tamil Nadu Cricket Association and Kerala Cricket Association said to have been approached about hosting matches originally slated for Kolkata and Mumbai. 

The BCB’s stance has highlighted tensions over national pride and security. BCB president Aminul Islam has maintained that alternative venues in India would still mean playing in India, a position that underscores Dhaka’s reluctance to compromise on its request. 

The dispute comes as Bangladesh prepares to play three Group C matches in Kolkata and one in Mumbai, with the BCB arguing that the current political and security climate is unsuitable for their team’s participation without relocation. 

The ICC has not made a definitive decision, and final venue allocations are expected to be communicated in the coming days as the tournament’s February start approaches. (Newswire)

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The Sri Lanka team that participated in the 7th Roll Ball World Cup held in Dubai has alleged that due to the misconduct of their association’s officials, they had to face numerous difficulties during the World Cup tournament.

Upon their arrival in Sri Lanka recently, the women’s and men’s teams said that several of the team members were unable to attend the tournament due to the Association’s failure to apply for visas. 

“We came to Colombo on December 13 to leave for the tournament on the 14th, but were unable to depart as several of our members had not received their visas. Trainers and team managers of the two teams had also not received their visas. The association informed that the visas would be processed by the 16th, and everyone can travel together. However, on that day, several of our members, coaches and team managers had not received their visas. The association told those with visas to depart and that the rest would join the following day. The women’s team competed until the semifinal and became pole champions. However, until the last moment, the remaining players and staff did not turn up, causing severe difficulties in their participation in the tournament,” the teams said.

They alleged that the Sri Lanka Roll Ball Association was aware that visas cannot be applied for the players or coaching staff after two days of the commencement of the competition. 

Stating that they were only sent for participation, and the association had failed to provide the necessary support, the teams called for an inquiry into the association members and sought justice for their unfair treatment. (Newswire)

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Sri Lanka Cricket (SLC) has announced the 15-member squad selected to participate in the ICC Women’s World Cup 2025. 

The squad, selected by the SLC Selection Panel, will be headed by Chamari Athapaththu.

The Women’s World Cup will be played in India and Sri Lanka from 30th September to 2nd November. 

Sri Lanka will start its campaign on the 30th of September when they take on India at Guwahati in the tournament’s opening game. (Newswire)

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A revised schedule for the ICC Women’s Cricket World Cup 2025 was announced today, with Navi Mumbai replacing Bengaluru as one of the five venues for the eight-team tournament.

The DY Patil Stadium in Navi Mumbai will host up to five fixtures comprising three league matches, a semifinal and potentially the final after a rejig was necessitated because of the unavailability of Bengaluru’s M. Chinnaswamy Stadium.

The tournament dates remain the same – 30 September to 2 November – as do the other venues, which are the ACA Stadium (Guwahati), Holkar Stadium (Indore), ACA-VDCA Stadium (Visakhapatnam) and R. Premadasa Stadium (Colombo, Sri Lanka).

ICC Chairman Mr. Jay Shah expressed satisfaction at the announcement of the new venue, which he felt was an ideal one for women’s cricket.

Mr. Jay Shah said: “Navi Mumbai has emerged as a genuine home for women’s cricket in recent years. The support it has received during international fixtures and the Women’s Premier League has been remarkable, creating an atmosphere that elevates the players and inspires fans. I am certain that the same energy will define the big matches of the ICC Women’s Cricket World Cup as it returns to India after 12 years.

“We stand at a pivotal moment in the journey of the women’s game. This World Cup has the potential to be remembered as one of those defining milestones that shaped the sport’s future, not only in India but across the cricketing world.

“While unforeseen circumstances required us to adjust the schedule and replace a venue, we are pleased to now have a line-up of five world-class venues that will showcase the very best of the women’s game. The stage is set, and I am confident this tournament will capture imaginations and inspire a new generation of fans.”

The final of the tournament will be held either in Colombo or Navi Mumbai on 2 November; the first semifinal will take place in Guwahati or Colombo on 29 October and the second semifinal in Navi Mumbai on 30 October.

Tournament fixtures (matches start at 15h00 local time unless specified otherwise):

• Tuesday, 30 Sept: India vs Sri Lanka, Guwahati
• Wednesday, 1 Oct: Australia vs New Zealand, Indore
• Thursday, 2 Oct: Bangladesh vs Pakistan, Colombo
• Friday, 3 Oct: England vs South Africa, Guwahati
• Saturday, 4 Oct: Australia vs Sri Lanka, Colombo
• Sunday, 5 Oct: India vs Pakistan, Colombo
• Monday, 6 Oct: New Zealand vs South Africa, Indore
• Tuesday, 7 Oct: England vs Bangladesh, Guwahati
• Wednesday, 8 Oct: Australia vs Pakistan, Colombo
• Thursday, 9 Oct: India vs South Africa, Visakhapatnam
• Friday, 10 Oct: New Zealand vs Bangladesh, Guwahati
• Saturday, 11 Oct: England vs Sri Lanka, Colombo
• Sunday, 12 Oct: India vs Australia, Visakhapatnam
• Monday, 13 Oct: South Africa vs Bangladesh, Visakhapatnam
• Tuesday, 14 Oct: New Zealand vs Sri Lanka, Colombo
• Wednesday, 15 Oct: England vs Pakistan, Colombo
• Thursday, 16 Oct: Australia vs Bangladesh, Visakhapatnam
• Friday, 17 Oct: South Africa vs Sri Lanka, Colombo
• Saturday, 18 Oct: New Zealand vs Pakistan, Colombo
• Sunday, 19 Oct: India vs England, Indore
• Monday, 20 Oct: Sri Lanka vs Bangladesh, Navi Mumbai
• Tuesday, 21 Oct: South Africa vs Pakistan, Colombo
• Wednesday, 22 Oct: Australia vs England, Indore
• Thursday, 23 Oct: India vs New Zealand, Navi Mumbai
• Friday, 24 Oct: Sri Lanka vs Pakistan, Colombo
• Saturday, 25 Oct: Australia vs South Africa, Indore
• Sunday, 26 Oct: England vs New Zealand, Visakhapatnam (11h00)
• Sunday, 26 Oct: India vs Bangladesh, Navi Mumbai
• Wednesday, 29 Oct: Semifinal 1, Guwahati/Colombo
• Thursday, 30 Oct: Semifinal 2, Navi Mumbai
• Sunday, 2 Nov: Final, Navi Mumbai

Warm-up matches:

• Thursday, 25 Sept

Bengaluru: New Zealand vs India ‘A’, BCCI Centre of Excellence 2 ground, 09h30; India vs England, BCCI Centre of Excellence 1 ground, 15h00

Colombo: Bangladesh vs South Africa, Colombo Cricket Club, 15h00; Sri Lanka vs Pakistan, R. Premadasa Stadium, 15h00

• Saturday, 27 Sept:

Bengaluru: India vs New Zealand, BCCI Centre of Excellence 1 ground, 15h00

Colombo: Sri Lanka vs Bangladesh, R. Premadasa Stadium, 15h00

• Sunday, 28 Sept:

Bengaluru: England vs Australia, BCCI Centre of Excellence ground 1, 15h00

Colombo: South Africa vs Pakistan, Colombo Cricket Club, 15h00 (ICC)

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The International Cricket Council (ICC) today announced the schedule for the ICC Women’s Cricket World Cup 2025, where hosts India will get the tournament underway against Sri Lanka in Bengaluru. 

The two countries will get the tournament started at M. Chinnaswamy Stadium on 30 September, with action starting at 15h00 local time.

Defending champions Australia, then get their campaign up and running against neighbours, New Zealand, at Holkar Cricket Stadium in Indore on 1 October, while Bangladesh face Pakistan a day later in Colombo.

Bengaluru plays host for a second time as 2022 runners-up England face South Africa on Friday, 3 October, in the final opening match.

The round-robin stage runs until 26 October, with the final day of group stage action culminating in two matches on the same day, with England facing New Zealand in Guwahati and India hosting Bangladesh in Bengaluru.

The semi-finals are scheduled for 29 and 30 October, before the Final takes place on 2 November.

The top four sides from the round-robin stage will progress to the semi-finals, with first place playing fourth and second taking on third.

ICC Women’s Cricket World Cup 2025 Sri Lanka matches:

• Tuesday 30 September: India v Sri Lanka – Bengaluru – 15h00
• Saturday 4 October: Australia v Sri Lanka – Colombo – 15h00
• Saturday 11 October: England v Sri Lanka – Guwahati – 15h00
• Tuesday 14 October: New Zealand v Sri Lanka – Colombo – 15h00
• Friday 17 October: South Africa v Sri Lanka – Colombo – 15h00
• Monday 20 October: Sri Lanka v Bangladesh – Colombo – 15h00
• Friday 24 October: Pakistan v Sri Lanka – Colombo – 15h00
• Saturday 25 October: Australia v Sri Lanka – Indore – 15h00

Full schedule:

• Tuesday 30 September: India v Sri Lanka – Bengaluru – 15h00
• Wednesday 1 October: Australia v New Zealand – Indore – 15h00
• Thursday 2 October: Bangladesh v Pakistan – Colombo – 15h00
• Friday 3 October: England v South Africa – Bengaluru – 15h00
• Saturday 4 October: Australia v Sri Lanka – Colombo – 15h00
• Sunday 5 October: India v Pakistan – Colombo – 15h00
• Monday 6 October: New Zealand v South Africa – Indore – 15h00
• Tuesday 7 October: England v Bangladesh – Guwahati – 15h00
• Wednesday 8 October: Australia v Pakistan – Colombo – 15h00
• Thursday 9 October: India v South Africa – Vizag – 15h00
• Friday 10 October: New Zealand v Bangladesh – Vizag – 15h00
• Saturday 11 October: England v Sri Lanka – Guwahati – 15h00
• Sunday 12 October: India v Australia – Vizag – 15h00
• Monday 13 October: South Africa v Bangladesh – Vizag – 15h00
• Tuesday 14 October: New Zealand v Sri Lanka – Colombo – 15h00
• Wednesday 15 October: England v Pakistan – Colombo – 15h00
• Thursday 16 October: Australia v Bangladesh – Vizag – 15h00
• Friday 17 October: South Africa v Sri Lanka – Colombo – 15h00
• Saturday 18 October: New Zealand v Pakistan – Colombo – 15h00
• Sunday 19 October: India v England – Indore – 15h00
• Monday 20 October: Sri Lanka v Bangladesh – Colombo – 15h00
• Tuesday 21 October: South Africa v Pakistan – Colombo – 15h00
• Wednesday 22 October: Australia v England – Indore – 15h00
• Thursday 23 October: India v New Zealand – Guwahati – 15h00
• Friday 24 October: Pakistan v Sri Lanka – Colombo – 15h00
• Saturday 25 October: Australia v Sri Lanka – Indore – 15h00
• Sunday 26 October: England v New Zealand – Guwahati – 11h00
• Sunday 26 October: India v Bangladesh – Bengaluru – 15h00
• Wednesday 29 October: Semi-final 1 – Guwahati/Colombo – 15h00
• Thursday 30 October: Semi-final 2 – Bengaluru – 15h00
• Sunday 2 November: Final – Colombo/Bengaluru – 15h00 (ICC)

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The final of the ICC Women’s T20 World Cup 2026 will be held at Lord’s on Sunday, 5 July, it was announced ahead of a launch event today at the iconic London venue, which will be attended by some of the top names of British women’s sport.

Lord’s, which was also the venue for the thrilling final of the ICC Women’s Cricket World Cup between England and India in 2017, is one of seven venues confirmed for the ICC Women’s T20 World Cup 2026, alongside Old Trafford Cricket Ground, Headingley, Edgbaston, Hampshire Bowl, The Oval and Bristol County Ground.

The tournament kicks off on Friday 12 June before culminating at Lord’s, 33 fixtures and 24 days later, showcasing the best of the global women’s game and seeking to take women’s cricket into the mainstream.

An expanded competition will see 12 teams descend on England and Wales to compete for the prestigious trophy that is currently held by New Zealand.

The schedule of the tournament, which will see teams competing in two groups before the knockout stage, will be announced in due course.

Eight countries are already sure of their place, with the final four participants to be decided through a Women’s T20 World Cup Qualifier next year.

England and Wales were awarded hosting rights for the ICC Women’s T20 World Cup 2026 in 2022, with the seven host venues selected subsequently following evaluation of various criteria.

The official launch of the tournament at Lord’s will feature some of the biggest names in British women’s sport, including England Head Coach Charlotte Edwards, England stars Tammy Beaumont, Sophia Dunkley, Sophie Ecclestone and Lauren Bell, and England rugby player Ellie Kildunne.

It will set out a vision for the tournament to be a sporting spectacle which can accelerate equality in cricket and change the game for good, taking women’s cricket into the mainstream permanently.

The International Cricket Council (ICC) Chair Jay Shah and the England and Wales Cricket Board (ECB) Chief Executive Richard Gould welcomed the confirmation of the venues.

ICC Chair Jay Shah said: “The confirmation of venues represents a defining moment as we build towards the ICC Women’s T20 World Cup 2026. This tournament will bring together the world’s finest players in a celebration of skill, spirit and sportsmanship.

“The United Kingdom’s rich diversity has always shown passionate support for all teams, something we witnessed so memorably at past events. The sell-out Women’s Cricket World Cup final at Lord’s in 2017 remains a landmark in the rise of the women’s game, and I cannot think of a more fitting stage for the final.”

“As we turn our focus to preparing for the tournament, we are excited by the promise of thrilling T20 action that will not only captivate fans here but also serve as a showcase for cricket’s return on the Olympic stage in Los Angeles 2028.”

ECB Chief Executive Richard Gould said: “We are hugely excited for the ICC Women’s T20 World Cup 2026, and thrilled to be able to confirm the seven iconic venues that will host the tournament.

“It is of course extra special to announce that the final will be taking place at Lord’s. It is one of the finest venues in world cricket and every cricketer dreams of being part of occasions like a World Cup final at Lord’s.

“This will be the biggest women’s cricket event ever staged in England and Wales and is undoubtedly an opportunity to take the game to more people than ever before and welcome in new fans – young and old.

“Crucially though this isn’t just about scale, it’s about providing a world-class experience for players, fans and broadcasters alike, ensuring that the tournament reflects the elite performance of the players on the pitch.

“We want this competition to be part of a long-term movement, and not just a single moment in time. This World Cup will grow a new generation of fans who didn’t grow up with women’s cricket but will never imagine sport without it.”

The ICC’s global women’s events have been on an ascendancy since the ICC Women’s Cricket World Cup 2017 with increased attendances at venues and more viewership across broadcast and digital platforms.

The ICC Women’s T20 World Cup 2020 final between Australia and India in Melbourne saw a record 86,174 spectators in attendance while the finals of the subsequent T20 World Cups in Cape Town (2023) and Dubai (2024) were also sold out in markets where women’s cricket had never been ticketed before. (ICC)

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The Ceylon Indoor Cricket Association (CICA) has announced it will host the Indoor Cricket World Cup 2025, the 12th world cup tournament.

The World Indoor Cricket Federation (WICF) awarded the hosting rights after the CICA had conducted a very successful World Masters’ Series 5 months ago.  

The Indoor Cricket World Cup 2025 will be worked off under the following 4 categories: 

1. Men’s Open 
2. Women’s Open 
3. 22& under Boys
4. 22 & under girls

According to CICA, teams from Australia, New Zealand, South Africa, India, England, UAE, Singapore, USA and hosts Sri Lanka will be seen in action. 

The tournament will be held from the 27th of September to the 05th of October 2025, with the games conducted at the Austasia Sports Complex and the newly built U Pro Arena, in Thalawathugoda. 

Approximately 1000 players, officials & supporters are expected in the country for this prestigious event, with appreciable media coverage made possible in all major nations involved. Apart from being a major sporting event, it will also serve as a popular sports tourism opportunity for the host country at a time the tourism sector in the island nation is witnessing an upward trend in arrivals. 

Over the last year, there has been much activity relating to International Indoor Cricket in Sri Lanka. The England Asia Cup was followed by the Masters World Series, with the upgraded U Pro, Colombo & Austasia, Thalawathugoda facility producing exciting action on a daily basis. 

The inaugural edition of the World Cup was held in 1995, in Birmingham, England, with Bristol also hosting one in that country. Australia has witnessed 03 events in Melbourne & Brisbane, with the former being the venue for the last event in 2022. 

Wellington was the host city when the Indoor Cricket World Cup was held twice in New Zealand. Johannesburg & Gauteng were the cities involved when South Africa acted as the host country on two occasions.

Dubai was also a venue once. Colombo is the host city for the 02nd occasion after a lapse of 21 years, bringing Sri Lanka into the limelight of Indoor Cricket World Cup action this year. 

Australia has won all the world titles in both divisions up to now. In the Men’s category, New Zealand have been runners up on 08 instances, South Africa twice & Sri Lanka once. In the Women’s category, South Africa has been the runner-up 07 times while New Zealand has done so 03 times. (Newswire)

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President Donald Trump established a White House Task Force for the 2026 World Cup on Friday by signing an executive order in the Oval Office alongside Gianni Infantino, the president of FIFA, the governing body of world soccer.

The task force’s stated mission is to “showcase the Nation’s pride and hospitality while promoting economic growth and tourism,” according to the order. Trump will chair the body.

The U.S. is preparing to co-host the world’s most-watched sports tournament alongside Canada and Mexico amid rising geopolitical tensions, as Trump escalates a trade war with the longtime allies. 

Asked about co-hosting the tournament with the neighbors after slapping them with tariffs, Trump said it only adds to the drama on the pitch.

“I think it’s going to make it more exciting,” said Trump.

“Tension is a good thing,” the president also said. “It makes it much more exciting.”

Infantino, the controversial president of soccer’s governing body, offered estimates of the economic impact the tournament will have in the U.S.

FIFA’s president estimated that between the 2026 World Cup and the lesser-known 2025 Club World Cup, which will also be hosted in the U.S., the country will rake in an estimated $40 billion.

Infantino also surmised that the tournaments will add 200,000 jobs to the country and bring in 10 million tourists.

Trump asked Infantino if the U.S., a perennial underdog in men’s soccer, could win the tournament for the first time in the nation’s history.

“Yes, with the public behind [them],” responded FIFA’s president.

“He knows what to say,” quipped Trump.

Infantino listed South American powerhouses Argentina and Brazil and European giants England, Germany, and Spain as the favorites for the tournament. Trump said he plans to attend “more than one” of the World Cup’s 104 matches.

Also in the Oval Office was Homeland Security Secretary Kristi Noem, who is taking charge of security for the event. Questions about the United States’ ability to host the tournament have swirled ever since mayhem erupted at the Copa América final in Florida last summer.

In July 2024, fans without tickets stormed the Hard Rock Stadium in Miami, trampling security officers, breaking down barricades, and vandalizing the stadium in order to watch Argentina take on Colombia for the trophy.

Noem said she’ll be running “incident command centers” in the American host cities and partnering with federal agencies, local law enforcement and international partners to ensure the tournament goes smoothly.

Atlanta, Boston, Dallas, Houston, Kansas City, Los Angeles, Miami, New York, Philadelphia, Seattle, and San Francisco are the American host cities for the upcoming tournament. New York and San Francisco’s games will be held at stadiums in East Rutherford, N.J., and Santa Clara, Calif., respectively.

Canada’s games will be hosted in Toronto and Vancouver, while Mexico’s matches will be held in Guadalajara, Mexico City, and Monterrey.

The tension between the co-hosts was underscored last week when the American-born coach of the Canadian national team blasted Trump’s repeated comments about Canada becoming the 51st U.S. state.

“If I have one message to our president, it’s lay off the ridiculous rhetoric about Canada being the 51st state,” Canada coach Jesse Marsch said in late February.

“As an American, I’m ashamed of the arrogance and disregard that we’ve shown one of our historically oldest, strongest, and most loyal allies,” said Marsch, a native of Racine, Wisconsin, who made two appearances for the U.S. men’s national team during his playing career.

Infantino also took the opportunity in the Oval Office to unveil the new trophy for FIFA’s Club World Cup. The tournament, which features the best club teams from each continent, has historically been an afterthought in the soccer world. But FIFA recently raised the stakes by announcing $1 billion in prize money for the tournament. (NBC)

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Sri Lanka Cricket (SLC) has announced the 15-member squad that will take part in the ICC Women’s T20 World Cup, which will be held in the UAE from 3rd to 20th October 2024.

The SLC states the squad, selected by the Sri Lanka Cricket Selection Committee, has been approved by the Minister of Sports.

Accordingly, the team, headed by Chamari Athapatthu will leave for the UAE on September 23, 2024. (Newswire)

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Sports Minister Harin Fernando has challenged those accusing the national men’s cricket team of having been at nightclubs during the recent T20 World Cup campaign, to prove those allegations. 

Minister Fernando said he would resign from his portfolio if anyone could prove that the cricketers had been at nightclubs as claimed by some persons. 

“Our former minister recently said that the team had been at nightclubs and had only turned up for practice at 09.00 am during the tournament. If anyone can prove that these cricketers had been at a nightclub or party, I am prepared to resign,” the minister said. 

The Sports Minister further revealed that after he assumed duties, the Sri Lankan team won 07 out of 12 matches and lost two matches at the T20 World Cup. 

Minister Fernando also criticised those using social media to slam the national cricket team, adding “As a country, we need to help the children.”(Newswire)

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The Sri Lanka men’s national cricket team returned to the nation today after having been eliminated in the first round of the ICC T20 Cricket World Cup.

Speaking to reporters upon their return, Sri Lanka Skipper Wanindu Hasaranga responded to queries on social media posts criticizing the cricket team for their poor performance in the tournament. 

Hasaranga said that some cricketers were also behind the criticism shared on social media platforms against the current team. 

“We know who is behind these posts. There are some people who create pages and post such criticisms just to obtain a higher reach on social media. There are also some cricketers behind this. We cannot do anything about social media,” he added.

Acknowledging that the fans had been let down in this tournament, Hasaranga said the team acknowledged that mistakes on their part had led to their exit from the tournament. 

Hasaranga further said the team is looking at addressing their shortfalls and improving their performance to provide justice to their fans. (Newswire)

“We didn’t play well, and that’s why we lost matches. I don’t want to talk about social media. We know that even some cricketers were behind these social media attacks.” – Wanindu Hasaranga pic.twitter.com/plCqzMEp6I

— NewsWire (@NewsWireLK) June 19, 2024

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Former Sports Minister Roshan Ranasinghe says Sri Lanka Cricket (SLC) officials must take responsibility for the poor show of the national men’s cricket team in the ongoing T20 cricket world cup.

Speaking to reporters, Ranasinghe said he will not and has never laid blame on the cricketers, stating that they are talented players. 

“The cricket board must take responsibility. If proper management is carried out, then developing the sport of cricket is not an impossible task,” he said. 

Roshan Ranasinghe pointed out that if the Cabinet-appointed committee to introduce new regulations for sporting bodies had acted immediately after his sacking, Sri Lanka could have avoided such a poor state at the World Cup. 

“In order to improve the sport of cricket, it does not matter if the cricket board is banned and the corrupt officials are removed. The team must continue playing. However, people value money more and do not intend to improve cricket,” he said. 

The former Sports Minister emphasized the need for a new Sports Law to fix the sport of cricket in Sri Lanka. (Newswire)

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Pakistan have made a change to their accommodation in New York, switching to a hotel closer to the cricket ground in Nassau County, where they will play two T20 World Cup group games on June 9 and June 11.

Pakistan were originally booked to stay at a hotel about an hour and a half away from the venue. ESPNcricinfo understands the PCB took exception to the arrangement and arranged for the team to move to a hotel in Long Island, about a ten-minute drive from Nassau County International Cricket Stadium.

Pakistan arrive in New York from Dallas on June 7 and play India at the venue two days later. The Indian team has been accommodated at a hotel about ten minutes from the ground, and have been in New York for more than a week, having played their warm-up match against Bangladesh and their first group game against Ireland at the venue.

Generally at World Cups, hotel bookings are handled by the ICC working with the Local Organising Committee (LOC), a body that includes the host board. It is rare for teams to change hotels but given Sri Lanka’s experience during their stay in New York, arrangements have come under scrutiny.

Sri Lanka were staying in Brooklyn ahead of their game against South Africa, 90 minutes from the ground. The logistical complications resulted in them cancelling their training session on the eve of the game to prevent fatigue. Ahead of their morning match, Sri Lanka were forced to start their day at 7am and ultimately succumbed to a heavy defeat against South Africa. Bowler Maheesh Theekshana called the scheduling and logistics “unfair” and Sri Lanka’s manager Mahinda Halangoda told ESPNcricinfo they had lodged an official complaint about their travel arrangements in this tournament.

The PCB decided not to wait and raised concerns about their hotel being too far from the ground, insisting on a change in accommodation. The ICC eventually acquiesced to the request. Pakistan play India on Sunday 9 June, and Canada two days later in New York. (ESPNcricinfo)

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Sri Lanka is among several countries facing issues in the USA during the ongoing ICC Men’s T20 Cricket World Cup, Sports Minister Harin Fernando said on Friday.

Addressing the Parliament today, Minister Harin Fernando said that through Sri Lanka’s Director General of Sports, a written inquiry has been made from the International Cricket Council (ICC) on the various issues being faced by the Sri Lanka national team at the World Cup.

He further said that an official had been appointed by Sri Lanka Cricket (SLC) to inquire into the issues faced by the team, adding that the official was in the US to help resolve the issues.

The Sports Minister also responded to the various concerns raised regarding the national team at the ongoing international cricket tournament.

Addressing the 7-hour delay at a US airport, the Sports Minister said Sri Lanka was not the only nation that had faced this situation and that the Ireland and South African teams too experienced flight delays.

“All three cricket teams faced a delay due to technical difficulties caused by the flight. This resulted in the teams being stranded at the Florida airport for 07- hours,” he said. 

Minister Fernando said that the SLC has launched an inquiry into the matter and has also lodged a complaint with the ICC in this regard.

The Sports Minister also revealed that several cricket teams received preferential treatment in the USA.

“It has been found that Bangladesh is the team that has the most distance to travel from its accommodation to the stadium. Sri Lanka comes in next. Two other teams are placed at the same hotel as Sri Lanka and are facing similar issues,” he said. 

Stating that USA Cricket is currently banned by the ICC, Minister Harin Fernando said that the World Cup is being conducted by the ICC in the US amidst several issues.

Responding to the Sports Minister’s clarification, Opposition leader MP Sajith Premadasa raised a question on the unsuitable pitches offered in New York, which was acknowledged by the ICC in a recent statement.

Sports Minister Harin Fernando explained that the said pitches cannot be rated as they will be removed after the conclusion of the World Cup, as they are a temporary set-up.

Revealing that he had travelled to the US ahead of the tournament to oversee preparations, Minister Fernando said that during Sri Lanka’s practice match, it was evident that the pitches in New York were not up to standard.

On the Opposition Leader’s question regarding the distance from the accommodation to the stadium, the Sports Minister explained that the travel time of the team has been affected due to the traffic in New York City. 

Minister Harin Fernando assured that the Sports Ministry will conduct a probe into the failure to resolve the issues faced by the Sri Lankan cricket team in the ongoing ICC Men’s Cricket World Cup in the USA. (Newswire)

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