“Another L incoming” – Fans react to Jean Silva reportedly eyeing Yair Rodriguez fight next after Noche UFC loss

Fans have reacted with great enthusiasm after Jean Silva expressed his interest in facing former interim UFC featherweight champion Yair Rodriguez as his next opponent.

The potential matchup has generated significant buzz within the MMA community, sparking discussions and predictions about how the fight could unfold. Fans are eager to see these two skilled fighters clash inside the Octagon, anticipating an exciting and competitive bout.

Silva’s public declaration has certainly heightened expectations, setting the stage for what could be a thrilling encounter in the featherweight division. As the conversation continues, many will be watching closely to see if this highly anticipated fight becomes a reality.
https://www.sportskeeda.com/mma/news-another-l-incoming-fans-react-jean-silva-reportedly-eyeing-yair-rodriguez-fight-next-noche-ufc-loss

Anatoly Malykhin says loss to ‘Reug Reug’ was crucial for MMA career: “What I needed was exactly this”

Russian behemoth Anatoly Malykhin experienced a significant setback last year when he suffered the first loss of his MMA career.

The defeat came at the hands of Reug Reug Oumar Kane, marking a pivotal moment in Malykhin’s fighting journey.
https://www.sportskeeda.com/mma/news-anatoly-malykhin-says-loss-reug-reug-crucial-mma-career-what-i-needed-exactly-this

“I had a little PTSD”- Noah Lyles reveals therapist’s crucial advice about mindset that helped him to achieve Usain Bolt feat at World championship

Noah Lyles stunned spectators and the track community with his incredible performance in the 200m race at the World Athletics Championships.

His remarkable speed and technique left fans and fellow athletes alike in awe. This standout performance further solidified Lyles’ reputation as one of the premier sprinters in the world.
https://www.sportskeeda.com/us/olympics/news-i-little-ptsd-noah-lyles-reveals-therapist-s-crucial-advice-mindset-helped-achieve-usain-bolt-feat-world-championship

Bizarre Moment! Alex Albon’s Wing Mirror Flies Off During Formula 1 Azerbaijan Grand Prix Practice Session; Video

Alex Albon Faces Rare Issue as Wing Mirror Detaches During Azerbaijan Grand Prix Practice

Williams F1 driver Alex Albon experienced an unusual hiccup during the free practice session of the Azerbaijan Grand Prix in Baku, as one of his car’s wing mirrors came loose and eventually detached mid-session. The unexpected incident drew attention from both commentators and fans, given how rare and potentially risky such a failure can be on a street circuit known for its tight turns and high-speed straights.

The wing mirror detached on the long back straight of the Baku City Circuit, a track where visibility is crucial due to its blend of narrow sections and overtaking zones. Albon continued driving briefly before returning to the pits, where Williams engineers quickly assessed the damage and retrieved the missing part. Thankfully, Albon remained in control throughout and avoided any further complications.

Wing mirrors in Formula 1 are not just for checking positions but are crucial for safety, especially on a track like Baku where walls leave no margin for error. Their aerodynamic positioning also means any detachment could disrupt airflow and balance, particularly during fast-paced practice laps.

The Azerbaijan Grand Prix has a reputation for chaos and unpredictability, and Albon’s lost mirror is another small chapter in that ongoing story. As the weekend progresses, Williams will be aiming for stability and performance, with both mirrors firmly attached.


Ferrari’s Star Duo Lewis Hamilton & Charles Leclerc Climb Fence to Greet Tifosi After Italian Grand Prix

In a moment that sent the crowd at Monza into a frenzy, Ferrari drivers Lewis Hamilton and Charles Leclerc climbed over the fence to greet the adoring Tifosi after the conclusion of the Italian Grand Prix. Though the race didn’t end with a Ferrari victory, the gesture from the drivers turned into an emotional highlight of the weekend, showcasing the deep connection between the Scuderia and its passionate fans.

The Italian Grand Prix is always a special affair for Ferrari, and the 2025 edition was no exception. Despite battling hard on the track and finishing just off the podium, both Hamilton and Leclerc knew the importance of acknowledging the sea of red that had filled the stands in support.

After returning to the pits post-race, the two drivers surprised everyone by making their way to the grandstand fence, climbing over it to personally wave, cheer, and salute the fans — a rare and heartfelt act in modern Formula 1.

For Hamilton, who is in his debut season with Ferrari, it was a particularly emotional moment. The seven-time world champion has often spoken about the magic of Monza and the legacy of Ferrari, but this was the first time he experienced the love of the Tifosi as one of their own. Smiling broadly and visibly moved, Hamilton raised both hands in gratitude, taking in the thunderous chants of his name blended with Ferrari cheers.

Leclerc, already a fan favorite, shared a similar moment of joy. Having raced for Ferrari since 2019, he knows what it means to perform in front of the Italian faithful. He took time to engage with the crowd, waving and exchanging gestures that spoke volumes about the bond between the team and the fans.

While the race itself was dominated by Red Bull’s Max Verstappen, the lasting image from Monza was not of victory but of unity. The sight of two Ferrari drivers climbing the fence, arms raised in salute to the red sea below, was a powerful reminder that in Formula 1, passion can matter just as much as points.
https://www.freepressjournal.in/sports/bizarre-moment-alex-albons-wing-mirror-flies-off-during-formula-1-azerbaijan-grand-prix-practice-session-video

Devdutt Padikkal completes 3,000 First-class runs with 7th century: Stats

**Devdutt Padikkal Completes 3,000 First-Class Runs with 7th Century Against Australia A**

*By Rajdeep Saha | Sep 19, 2025, 01:59 PM*

Karnataka’s Devdutt Padikkal made a stunning return to the India A circuit with an impressive century against Australia A in Lucknow. The left-handed batsman resumed his innings on the fourth morning at an overnight score of 86 and quickly reached his hundred in just 120 balls. This marked Padikkal’s seventh First-Class (FC) century and helped him surpass the milestone of 3,000 runs in FC cricket.

### Solid Partnership with Dhruv Jurel Powers India A

Batting at number four, Padikkal forged a crucial partnership with India A’s wicketkeeper Dhruv Jurel. When Jurel joined him at the crease, India A were 222/4. The duo put together a formidable 228-run stand for the fifth wicket in response to Australia A’s first innings tally of 532/6 declared.

Despite the mounting pressure, Jurel counter-attacked brilliantly and scored a well-crafted century off just 114 balls. He ended his innings with 140 runs from 197 deliveries.

### Padikkal’s Impressive Knock

Padikkal made his innings count by scoring a commanding 150 runs from 281 balls, including 14 boundaries and a six. After Jurel’s dismissal, Padikkal added 41 runs with Tanush Kotian and another 29 runs alongside Harsh Dubey before he was finally dismissed by Corey Rocchiccioli.

At the time of Padikkal’s departure, India A’s score stood at 520/7. Rain subsequently stopped play with India A at 532/7.

### Milestone Achievement: 3,000 First-Class Runs

Playing in his 45th FC match, Padikkal has now amassed over 3,000 runs, totaling 3,038 at an impressive average of over 42. His record includes 7 centuries and 18 half-centuries. Of these, 90 runs have come in two Test matches representing Team India.

### Career Highlights and Return to Competitive Cricket

At just 25 years old, Padikkal has already established himself as a promising cricketer. This match marks only his second competitive outing since the 2025 Indian Premier League season with Royal Challengers Bangalore.

Earlier this month, he made a comeback in First-Class cricket with a half-century and an unbeaten 16 runs in the Duleep Trophy semi-final in Bengaluru.

### International Stint: Test Debut and Challenges

Padikkal made his Test debut against England in Dharamsala last year, scoring a half-century. However, he played only one more Test during the Border-Gavaskar Trophy 2024-25 opener against Australia in Perth. After a disappointing duck in the first innings and 25 runs in the second, he was dropped for the rest of the tour.

He also missed India’s recent England tour in June, but this recent performance signals a positive resurgence in his career.

Devdutt Padikkal’s fluent century against Australia A not only helped India A fight back strongly but also marked a significant milestone in his cricketing journey. Fans and selectors alike will be hopeful that this form translates into a sustained return to international cricket.
https://www.newsbytesapp.com/news/sports/padikkal-gets-to-this-massive-fc-milestone-with-defiant-150/story

Sri Lanka’s Dunith Wellalage loses father during Asia Cup match

**Sri Lanka’s Dunith Wellalage Loses Father During Asia Cup Match**

*By Rajdeep Saha | September 19, 2025, 02:25 AM*

Sri Lankan all-rounder Dunith Wellalage endured a heartbreaking personal loss on Thursday, September 18, when his father, Suranga Wellalage, passed away due to a heart attack. The tragic news came while Dunith was representing Sri Lanka in their Asia Cup 2025 group-stage match against Afghanistan in Abu Dhabi.

According to ESPNcricinfo, Dunith learned of his father’s death after the match, which Sri Lanka won by six wickets with eight balls to spare. Former cricketer and broadcaster Russell Arnold confirmed the news on air following Sri Lanka’s victory over Afghanistan.

Reports from Sri Lankan media indicate that Dunith was informed about Suranga’s passing shortly after the successful chase of 170 runs. A photo shared by journalist Damith Weerasinghe showed the team manager consoling a visibly shaken Dunith by putting an arm around him.

### A Legacy Remembered

Suranga Wellalage was remembered fondly by Russell Arnold, who recalled Suranga as a talented cricketer and captain of one of Sri Lanka’s top school teams, Prince of Wales College. Arnold himself captained St Peter’s College during the same era.

Suranga’s sudden passing has understandably cast a shadow over Dunith’s participation in the remaining Asia Cup matches. Sri Lanka is scheduled to play three more games: against Bangladesh on September 20, Pakistan on September 23, and India on September 26.

### Dunith Wellalage’s International Career

Thursday’s match against Afghanistan marked only Dunith’s fifth T20 International and his first appearance in the Asia Cup 2025 tournament. He holds seven T20I wickets at an average of 20.

In the ODI format, Dunith has played 31 matches and taken 39 wickets with an average of 29.10. His best bowling figures in ODIs came in August 2024, when he took 5/27 against India in Colombo. During the 2023 Asia Cup (ODI format), he also made headlines by claiming five wickets for 40 runs against India.

Wellalage has appeared in one Test match but is yet to take a wicket in that format.

### Performance Against Afghanistan

During the match against Afghanistan, Dunith bowled well initially, reducing the opposition to 114/7 in the 17th over. Afghanistan stood at 137/7 after 19 overs, with Rashid Khan dismissed for 24.

However, the final over proved costly as Mohammad Nabi hit Dunith for five sixes, helping Afghanistan score a staggering 32 runs in that over, which included a no-ball and a single run on the last delivery. Afghanistan’s final total was 169/8.

Dunith finished with figures of 1/49 from his four overs, making a valuable contribution to Sri Lanka’s successful chase.

The cricketing community and fans alike extend their condolences to Dunith Wellalage and his family during this difficult time, while supporting him as he continues to represent Sri Lanka on the international stage.
https://www.newsbytesapp.com/news/sports/sri-lanka-allrounder-dunith-wellalage-s-father-passes-away/story

Sri Lanka’s Dunith Wellalage loses father during Asia Cup match

**Sri Lanka’s Dunith Wellalage Loses Father During Asia Cup Match**

*By Rajdeep Saha | September 19, 2025, 02:25 AM*

Sri Lankan all-rounder Dunith Wellalage endured a heartbreaking personal loss on Thursday, September 18, when his father, Suranga Wellalage, passed away due to a heart attack. The tragic news reached Dunith while he was representing Sri Lanka in their Asia Cup 2025 group-stage match against Afghanistan in Abu Dhabi.

According to ESPNcricinfo, Dunith was informed about his father’s demise only after the match, which Sri Lanka won by six wickets with eight balls to spare.

**Confirmation and Reactions**

Former cricketer and broadcaster Russell Arnold confirmed the sad news on-air following Sri Lanka’s victory over Afghanistan. Sri Lankan media reports revealed that Dunith was notified about the passing shortly after the team successfully chased down a target of 170 runs.

A poignant moment was captured by journalist Damith Weerasinghe, who shared a photo showing the Sri Lankan team manager comforting a visibly shaken Dunith, putting an arm around him.

**Remembering Suranga Wellalage**

Suranga Wellalage’s passing casts a somber shadow over Dunith’s ongoing participation in the Asia Cup. Russell Arnold fondly remembered Suranga as a talented cricketer, highlighting his role as captain of Prince of Wales College — one of Sri Lanka’s premier school teams — during Arnold’s own captaincy tenure at St. Peter’s College.

**Impact on Asia Cup Participation**

The loss inevitably raises questions about Dunith’s involvement in Sri Lanka’s remaining Asia Cup matches. Sri Lanka is scheduled to face Bangladesh on September 20, Pakistan on September 23, and India on September 26.

**Dunith Wellalage’s International Career**

Thursday’s match against Afghanistan marked only Dunith’s fifth T20 International and his first outing in the Asia Cup 2025 tournament. He currently holds 7 T20I wickets at an average of 20.00.

In One Day Internationals (ODIs), Dunith has featured in 31 matches. His standout performance includes best bowling figures of 5/27 during the third ODI against India in Colombo in August 2024. He has claimed 39 ODI wickets at an average of 29.10 overall. Notably, during the 2023 Asia Cup (ODI format), he took five wickets for 40 runs against India. Dunith has also played in one Test match, though he did not take any wickets in that format.

**Performance Against Afghanistan**

In the match versus Afghanistan, Dunith conceded 32 runs in the 20th over. Afghanistan’s innings was struggling at 114/7 by the 17th over following the dismissal of Rashid Khan for 24 runs. They moved to 137/7 in the 19th over.

However, Afghan batsman Mohammad Nabi launched an onslaught in the final over, hitting five sixes off Wellalage’s bowling. The final over yielded a massive 32 runs, which included a no-ball and a single on the last delivery, bringing Afghanistan’s total to 169/8.

Despite the expensive final over, Dunith delivered a generally steady bowling performance, finishing with figures of 1/49 from his 4 overs.

Sri Lanka’s journey in the Asia Cup continues amid emotional challenges for Dunith Wellalage. Fans and teammates alike are hopeful for his strength and success in the upcoming matches.
https://www.newsbytesapp.com/news/sports/sri-lanka-allrounder-dunith-wellalage-s-father-passes-away/story

Afghanistan eliminated from Asia Cup after Sri Lanka defeat: Stats

**Sri Lanka and Bangladesh Qualify for Super 4; Group B Sees Exciting Performances**

Sri Lanka and Bangladesh have secured their places in the Super 4 stage of the tournament, with Sri Lanka winning all three of their matches to top Group B. Bangladesh, who were eagerly awaiting this result, join Sri Lanka at the expense of Afghanistan, who have been eliminated. Earlier, Hong Kong was also ousted from the competition.

### Afghanistan’s Thrilling Final Over Powered by Nabi

Afghanistan’s innings saw wickets tumbling at regular intervals, reducing them to a precarious 114/7 in the 17th over following Rashid Khan’s dismissal for 24 runs. However, a spectacular final over from Mohammad Nabi turned the tide, as he blasted Dunith Wellalage for five sixes, scoring a massive 32 runs—including a no-ball and a single on the last delivery.

### Nabi Equals Afghanistan’s Fastest T20I Fifty Record

Nabi completed his half-century in just 20 balls, matching Azmatullah Omarzai’s record for the fastest T20I fifty by an Afghanistan batter. He was eventually run out for 60 off 22 balls, which included three fours and six sixes. Nabi’s quickfire 55-run partnership with Noor Ahmad for the eighth wicket also added lively momentum, with Noor scoring 48 off just 14 balls.

**Fastest T20I fifties for Afghanistan (by balls faced):**
– 20 balls – Azmatullah Omarzai vs Hong Kong, Abu Dhabi, 2025
– 20 balls – Mohammad Nabi vs Sri Lanka, Abu Dhabi, 2025
– 21 balls – Mohammad Nabi vs Ireland, Greater Noida, 2017
– 21 balls – Gulbadin Naib vs India, Bengaluru, 2024

### Nabi Achieves Another Milestone

According to Cricbuzz, Mohammad Nabi is just the third player from a Full Member nation to score a 50-plus in Men’s T20 Internationals after turning 40 years old. The list includes:

– Chris Gayle (41 years 294 days): 67 vs Australia, Gros Islet, 2021
– Mohammad Nabi (40 years 260 days): 60 vs Sri Lanka, Abu Dhabi, 2025
– Mohammad Hafeez (40 years 64 days): 99* vs New Zealand, Hamilton, 2020

### Nabi’s Career Highlights and Records

Playing his 139th T20I match, Nabi has amassed 2,357 runs from 130 innings at an average of 22.44, with this innings marking his seventh T20I fifty and first against Sri Lanka. He has hit 117 sixes according to ESPNcricinfo. In overall T20 cricket, Nabi has crossed 6,500 runs, totaling 6,516 runs at an average of 21.08 with 18 fifties.

### Thushara Nuwan Claims Third Four-Wicket Haul in T20Is

Sri Lankan pacer Thushara Nuwan impressed with figures of 4/18, bringing his wicket tally to 35 from 25 T20Is at an average of 18.28. This marked his third four-wicket haul in T20Is and he also has one five-wicket haul to his name.

According to ESPNcricinfo, Thushara has now taken 169 wickets in 127 T20 matches at an average of 19.71, including five four-wicket hauls and two fifers.

### Notable Bowling Feats by Thushara

– This is Thushara’s second four-wicket haul against Afghanistan; he has 8 wickets at 10.37 in three T20Is versus them.
– He is the second Sri Lankan pacer to take a four-wicket haul in the Men’s T20 Asia Cup, following Pramod Madushan’s feat against Pakistan in 2022.

### Sri Lanka Ace the Chase with a Brilliant Mendis Performance

Kusal Mendis starred with the bat for Sri Lanka, remaining unbeaten on 74 runs from 52 balls, hitting 10 fours. After early wickets fell (Pathum Nissanka for 22 and Kamil Mishara for 47/2), Mendis steadied the innings. He shared a 45-run partnership with Kusal Perera for the third wicket and a further 27 runs with Charith Asalanka.

Kamindu Mendis contributed an unbeaten 26, ending with a 52* run partnership alongside Mendis.

### Mendis Surpasses 5,000 Runs in T20 Cricket

With his stellar innings, Kusal Mendis passed the milestone of 5,000 runs in men’s T20 cricket, becoming the fifth Sri Lankan to achieve this feat. He joins an elite group including Kumar Sangakkara (6,937 runs), Mahela Jayawardene (5,479 runs), Tillakaratne Dilshan (5,193 runs), and Dinesh Chandimal (5,131 runs).

### Mendis’ Career Batting Stats

Kusal Mendis’ unbeaten 74* has taken his career T20 runs to 5,067 at an average of 30.16, including 35 fifties and 2 centuries. In T20 Internationals specifically, he has scored 2,164 runs for Sri Lanka in 90 innings at 26.07, hitting 17 fifties.

### Mohammad Nabi Shines with the Ball

Aside from his batting heroics, Nabi was also Afghanistan’s pick of the bowlers, delivering 3 overs for 1/20. The seasoned campaigner has now picked up 102 wickets in T20 Internationals at an average of 27.86 from 139 matches and 128 innings.

**In summary, the Super 4 stage will feature some of the tournament’s best talents, with Sri Lanka and Bangladesh advancing from Group B. Standout performances from players like Mohammad Nabi and Kusal Mendis have set the tone for an exciting remainder of the tournament.**
https://www.newsbytesapp.com/news/sports/sri-lanka-vs-afghanistan-asia-cup-t20-report-and-stats/story

Nashik To Host State Table Tennis Championship From Sept 20

The State Championship Ranking Table Tennis Tournament will be held in Nashik from September 20 to 24. Organised by the District Table Tennis Association, the tournament promises to be a thrilling event for players and enthusiasts alike.

The competition will take place at Nashik Gymkhana, featuring eight tables to accommodate the matches. It will include 12 different age categories, covering boys’ and girls’ groups under-11, under-13, under-15, under-17, and under-19, as well as senior men’s and women’s categories.

A total of 793 entries have been received from across Maharashtra, highlighting the growing popularity of table tennis in the region. Matches will be played using pre-sized tables and Double Fish Company balls, ensuring high-quality gameplay.

Several top performers at the national level are expected to participate. Notable players include Keshika Purkar, the state’s top-ranked player in the girls’ under-13 category, and Swara Karmarkar, who holds the first rank in the girls’ under-19 category.

The Nashik District Table Tennis Association team is working diligently to ensure the success of the event. Key members involved include president Narendra Chhajed, vice president and chairman of the Coordinating Committee Shekhar Bhandari, organising secretary Rajesh Bharvirkar, and treasurer Abhishek Chhajed. Other dedicated members contributing to the event’s smooth running are Milind Kachole, Alka Kulkarni, Sanjay Vasant, Aliasgar Adamji, Suhas Agarkar, Jay Modak, Puneet Desai, Ajinkya Shintre, Raja Aher, Dhananjay Barve, and Swati Agarkar.

This championship is set to showcase some of the best talent in Maharashtra and promises exciting matches for all attendees.
https://www.freepressjournal.in/pune/nashik-to-host-state-table-tennis-championship-from-sept-20

Leicestershire crowned County Championship Division Two champions after Kent washout

Leicestershire Crowned County Championship Division Two Champions After Kent Washout

By Rajdeep Saha | Sep 18, 2025 | 06:19 pm

Leicestershire have been crowned Division Two champions in the Rothesay County Championship, despite their final match against Kent being abandoned due to rain. Early morning showers left the outfield at Uptonsteel County Ground too wet for play, prompting umpires Hassan Adnan and Simon Widdup to call off any possibility of resuming the game after multiple inspections.

Title Secured: Promotion to Division One After 22 Years

Although the match was washed out, Leicestershire’s commanding 25-point lead entering the last two rounds of County games confirmed their promotion as Division Two champions. This success means the team will compete in Division One cricket next season for the first time since 2003.

While the players would have preferred to clinch the title on-field and receive their trophy before their home supporters, they remain proud of their achievement.

Celebrations Despite the Weather

Leicestershire’s players marked their title win with champagne and unveiled a ‘Champions’ board crafted from part of the boundary board. However, veteran seamer Chris Wright—who is retiring at the end of this season—was left disappointed. He had hoped for a farewell match in front of the home crowd but was denied that opportunity due to the weather.

Season Overview: Second Trophy in Three Seasons

This season, Leicestershire experienced several weather-affected draws, with four of their last six matches ending without results. Nevertheless, after winning five of their opening seven matches, they remained favorites to secure the title since late May.

This triumph marks Leicestershire’s second major trophy in three seasons, following their Metro Bank One-Day Cup victory in 2023. It is also their first County Championship title since 1998.

Top Performers for Leicestershire in 2025

  • Lewis Hill: The team’s top scorer in County Division Two, Hill amassed 877 runs at an average of 48.72, featuring two centuries and six half-centuries from 13 matches (19 innings).
  • Rehan Ahmed: Ahmed compiled 760 runs at an impressive average of 50.66, including five hundreds and one fifty to date.
  • Ian Holland: Leading the bowling attack, Holland took 35 wickets from 11 matches at an average of 19.62.

Leicestershire’s remarkable season culminates in their return to Division One, promising exciting cricket ahead.

Follow the celebrations and updates on Twitter with #Champions!

https://www.newsbytesapp.com/news/sports/leicestershire-win-county-championship-division-two-title/story

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