India and Pakistan’s cricketing relationship has further strained as the World Championship of Legends match got cancelled between the two nations.
In football, Lionel Messi has overtaken Cristiano Ronaldo in a prestigious record. Check Out the top sports stories across the world on July 20.
India vs Pakistan Match Cancelled in WCL
The India-Pakistan match in the World Championship of Legends 2025, set for July 20 in Birmingham, was cancelled after Indian players, including Shikhar Dhawan and Harbhajan Singh, refused to participate. The decision followed heightened geopolitical tensions after the Pahalgam terror attack in April 2025 and India’s Operation Sindoor. The WCL organizers apologized for the oversight, respecting the players’ stance and acknowledging the sensitivities of Indian fans regarding national sentiments.
Arshdeep, Akash Deep Suffer Injury Blow
Indian pacers Arshdeep Singh and Akash Deep are doubtful for the Manchester Test (July 23, 2025) against England due to injuries. Arshdeep sustained a deep cut on his bowling hand during practice, requiring stitches, while Akash Deep is nursing a groin injury. The injuries have disrupted India’s bowling plans for the Anderson-Tendulkar Trophy, prompting the team management to consider replacements to maintain their competitive edge in the crucial fourth Test.
Anshul Kamboj Added to India Squad
Haryana fast bowler Anshul Kamboj has been drafted into India’s Test squad for the final two matches against England, starting July 23, 2025, in Manchester. The 24-year-old was added as cover for injured pacers Arshdeep Singh and Akash Deep. Kamboj, known for his pace and domestic consistency, impressed in recent Ranji Trophy matches. His inclusion strengthens India’s bowling reserves as they aim to secure the Anderson-Tendulkar Trophy.
Rohit, Virat Comeback Delayed
Rohit Sharma and Virat Kohli’s return to international cricket has been postponed as the proposed white-ball series against Sri Lanka failed to materialize due to scheduling conflicts. Sri Lanka offered the series to India after BCCI decided not to visit Bangladesh. But the series was shelved, delaying their comeback after a break post the 2025 T20 Champions Trophy.
Rohit Sharma’s Hamstring Injury
Former selector Jatin Paranjape revealed that Indian captain Rohit Sharma has been managing a hamstring injury for 4-5 months, impacting his mobility during recent matches. Despite the injury, Rohit led India in the 2025 Champions Trophy. Paranjape emphasized that Rohit’s condition is being monitored, and the India captain is likely to be available for the ODI assignments.
Man United Draw Against Leeds
Manchester United and Leeds United played out a goalless draw in their preseason friendly in Stockholm. New United signing Matheus Cunha made his debut but struggled to make an impact before being substituted at halftime. United hit the crossbar twice through Casemiro and Mainoo but lacked sharpness in attack, despite late pressure. Both teams made multiple changes at the interval, with Leeds debuting Sean Longstaff. A lively but ultimately uneventful match ended 0-0
Messi Overtakes Ronaldo’s Non-Penalty Goals
Lionel Messi surpassed Cristiano Ronaldo’s record for the most non-penalty goals in professional football, reaching the milestone in the MLS match against NY Red Bulls on July 19, 2025. Messi’s clinical strike for Miami took his non-penalty tally to 764, edging past Ronaldo’s 763. The Argentine scored a brace as Inter Miami won 5-1.
Arsenal’s Singapore Trip, Gyokeres Deal on Hold
Arsenal flew to Singapore for their pre-season tour on July 20, 2025, to play friendlies and prepare for the 2025-26 Premier League season. The transfer pursuit of Sporting CP’s Viktor Gyokeres remains stalled, with negotiations delayed over the add-ons valuation. The Gunners have already signed Kepa Arrizabalaga, Christian Norgaard, Noni Madueke, Martin Zubimendi and Cristhian Mosquera in this transfer window.
East Bengal-Mohun Bagan Match Delayed
The Calcutta Football League (CFL) clash between East Bengal and Mohun Bagan, originally set for July 20, 2025, was postponed due to heavy rainfall and pitch concerns in Kolkata. Rescheduled for July 26, the iconic derby has heightened anticipation among fans, which will be played at the Kalyani A Stadium.
Usyk Beats Dubois, Undisputed Champion
Oleksandr Usyk knocked out Daniel Dubois in the fifth round at Wembley Stadium to become the undisputed heavyweight champion for the second time. Usyk floored Dubois twice in the fifth, sealing victory with a left hook. The Ukrainian extended his unbeaten record to 24-0, unifying the WBA, WBC, WBO, and IBF belts. Dubois suffered his third career loss.