laradecruz
Bio
Stories (295)
Filter by community
World Cup 2026: Draw Date Set for December 5 in Las Vegas, USA
The 2026 FIFA World Cup will mark a historic moment in soccer history as it will be the first time the tournament is jointly hosted by three countries: the United States, Canada, and Mexico. This edition of the World Cup is set to take place from June 11 to July 19, 2026, and will feature an expanded format with 48 teams competing, up from the traditional 32. However, as of now, the complete lineup of the 48 teams has not been finalized. So far, 13 teams have secured their qualification, which includes the three host nations—USA, Canada, and Mexico—who automatically qualify as hosts, along with 10 other teams that have already booked their places through qualifying competitions.
By laradecruz6 months ago in Cleats
Cricket Returns to Olympics After 128 Years: 2028 LA Games to Feature Just Six Teams
Cricket is finally making its long-awaited return to the world’s biggest sporting stage — the Olympic Games — after a massive gap of 128 years. The sport will be featured in the 2028 Los Angeles Olympics, and while the excitement is palpable among cricket fans globally, the process of team selection has stirred debate and disappointment in some quarters. The format chosen for the Olympics is T20, and only six teams will be allowed to participate in each of the men’s and women’s tournaments. Although the final framework for qualification has not yet been officially confirmed by the International Cricket Council (ICC), early reports suggest that the selection will be based on regional rankings — a move that could impact traditional cricketing powerhouses like Pakistan, New Zealand, and Bangladesh.
By laradecruz6 months ago in Cleats
ENG vs IND 2025: Bad news for Team India! After Rishabh Pant, this bowler will also not play the Oval Test match
The Indian cricket team is facing a tough time in the ongoing Anderson-Tendulkar Trophy Test series against England. As the series reaches a crucial point, problems for Team India continue to grow. Just when the team was already hit by the absence of star wicketkeeper-batsman Rishabh Pant for the fifth and final Test, now another blow has been dealt. A senior and experienced fast bowler will also not be available for the upcoming match at Kennington Oval, scheduled to begin on July 31, 2025. Interestingly, this time the player is not out due to injury but will miss the match due to another important reason — workload management. The player in question is none other than India’s premier pacer Jasprit Bumrah. According to the Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI), their medical team has advised Bumrah to rest and skip the final match of the series. This decision has been taken with the long-term health of Bumrah in mind, particularly to protect his back from the risk of overuse and injury. The medical team believes that giving Bumrah a break now will ensure that he remains available and fit for the upcoming important tournaments and tours.
By laradecruz6 months ago in Cleats
Manchester United Bans Ronaldo, Beckham, and Cantona Jersey Prints, Citing Image Rights Issues
Former English Premier League champions Manchester United have stirred controversy by banning the printing of jerseys featuring the names of three legendary former players—Cristiano Ronaldo, David Beckham, and Eric Cantona. These three icons have played vital roles in Manchester United’s rich history and are beloved by fans around the world. Until recently, fans could freely purchase United shirts with these players' names at the club’s official megastore. However, this sudden ban has sparked debate and frustration among the fanbase, particularly as these names continue to carry immense sentimental and commercial value.
By laradecruz6 months ago in Cleats
Neymar’s Comeback at Santos Fails to Spark Revival, Future Uncertain
Neymar Jr., once one of the most dazzling and dynamic footballers in the world, has recently faced a difficult and frustrating period on the field. His struggle with injuries has been ongoing, severely limiting his ability to contribute consistently to his team. Despite his efforts to recover and return to form, he keeps getting sidelined due to recurring fitness issues. Even when he manages to play, the brilliance that once defined his style seems diminished, and he has been unable to perform at the high level fans and critics alike once expected.
By laradecruz6 months ago in Cleats
If Jasprit Bumrah retires from Tests, then these 3 players can replace him in Team India
India’s pace spearhead Jasprit Bumrah has been a vital part of the Test team over the years, but now, questions are being raised about his future in the longest format of the game. Former Indian cricketer Mohammad Kaif recently expressed concerns about Bumrah’s declining fitness and effectiveness in Test cricket. Kaif observed that Bumrah’s bowling speed has noticeably dropped—from consistently hitting 140 kmph to now hovering between 130-135 kmph. During the fourth Test against England in Manchester, Bumrah struggled both with the ball and physically. He took just one wicket and conceded over 100 runs—his worst performance in a Test match so far—and was seen clutching his leg during the game. Kaif believes that Bumrah’s body may no longer be able to handle the demanding workload of Test cricket, and hinted that the 31-year-old pacer might retire from the format sooner rather than later.
By laradecruz6 months ago in Cleats
Neymar Faces Fan Fury: Bruna Marquezine Masks Planned to Distract Him in Upcoming Match
Brazilian football star Neymar Jr. is once again in the spotlight, not for his goals or flashy footwork, but for heated exchanges with fans. Recently, during a Brazilian Serie A match where Santos lost 2-1 to Internacional, Neymar lost his cool and got into a verbal altercation with a fan. The situation escalated so much that Santos filed a legal complaint against the fan, and the police are now investigating. This incident has added to the tension surrounding Neymar and his club, who are currently struggling at the bottom of the league table. With only 14 points from 15 games, Santos finds itself in 17th place—firmly in the relegation zone.
By laradecruz6 months ago in Cleats
ENG vs IND 2025: ‘We are trying to give Kuldeep a chance’ – Morkel
India’s bowling coach Morne Morkel has defended the decision to exclude Kuldeep Yadav from India’s playing XI in the ongoing four-match Test series against England, stating that team balance and batting depth were the key considerations. With questions mounting over the absence of the wrist-spinner, especially after India’s bowling attack struggled during the fourth Test, Morkel emphasized that the coaching staff is aware of Kuldeep’s current form and are actively exploring ways to include him in the lineup. According to Morkel, Kuldeep’s inclusion would significantly alter the team's dynamics, especially in terms of batting depth, which is essential when playing against a side like England. “I think when he is included in the team, it is important to see how we can create balance and how we can make the batting order a little longer and stronger,” said Morkel, acknowledging the challenges of team selection in high-stakes matches.
By laradecruz6 months ago in Cleats
Inter Miami Stars Messi and Alba Suspended Over All-Star Snub, Club Slams Harsh MLS Rule
Inter Miami’s star players Lionel Messi and Jordi Alba have been officially suspended for one Major League Soccer (MLS) game after withdrawing from the MLS and Liga MX All-Star Game. Despite their immense contributions to the league and their club, the pair could not escape the consequences of an existing MLS rule. According to the league's policy, if a player selected for the All-Star Game is not injured and still does not participate, that player is automatically suspended for the next regular league match. This policy has now sidelined Messi and Alba from Miami’s upcoming match against FC Cincinnati, scheduled to be played at home.
By laradecruz6 months ago in Cleats
ENG vs IND: ‘Rishabh Pant showed amazing courage’ – Sachin Tendulkar praises Rishabh Pant
On Thursday, July 24, Rishabh Pant delivered one of the most courageous performances of his career during the second day of the ongoing fourth Test between India and England in the 2025 Anderson-Tendulkar Trophy. Despite battling a painful toe injury, the Indian wicketkeeper-batter showed immense grit and determination as he returned to bat for his team, winning admiration from fans and legends of the game alike. His decision to face the English bowlers under such circumstances was not just about adding runs—it was a statement of spirit, resilience, and patriotism that moved the entire cricketing world.
By laradecruz6 months ago in Cleats
ENG vs IND 4th Test: India’s first innings ended at 358 runs, England also made a strong comeback, read the status of the second day’s play
The fourth match of the much-anticipated Anderson-Tendulkar Test series between England and India kicked off on July 23 at Old Trafford, Manchester. After winning the toss, England opted to bowl first, putting India into bat under overcast skies. The visitors, starting their first innings with high expectations, were bowled out for 358 runs by the second day. Despite a solid foundation laid on Day 1, the Indian innings couldn’t capitalize further, as England bounced back effectively with the ball on Day 2. When play resumed on the second morning, India were at 264 for 4, with Ravindra Jadeja and Sarfaraz Khan at the crease. However, Jadeja, who had remained unbeaten overnight, could add just one run to his score before falling for 20, giving England an early breakthrough. Shardul Thakur, known for his handy lower-order batting, played a crucial innings, scoring 41 valuable runs. Washington Sundar also chipped in with a steady 27, but wickets kept falling at regular intervals. India’s innings wrapped up at 358 in 114.1 overs, a total that appeared competitive but perhaps 50–70 runs short considering their position at stumps on Day 1.
By laradecruz6 months ago in Cleats
Bad news for RCB fans, M. Chinnaswamy Stadium declared unsafe to host after stampede controversy
Bengaluru’s iconic M. Chinnaswamy Stadium is facing an uncertain future as a host of major sporting events, including Indian Premier League (IPL) matches, following the release of the Justice John Michael Cunha Commission report. The commission was set up to investigate the tragic stampede that occurred on June 4, 2025, which claimed the lives of 11 people. The stampede broke out outside the stadium during Royal Challengers Bangalore’s victory parade after their maiden IPL title win. In the wake of this devastating incident, the commission has raised serious concerns over the stadium’s structural safety and its ability to handle large crowds, recommending that it be barred from hosting high-attendance events unless major safety upgrades are undertaken.
By laradecruz6 months ago in Cleats
