I 'lived the dream' - Conor Murray prepares to step away
Conor Murray says he has "lived the dream" as he prepares to move on to the next chapter of his rugby career.
New Zealand Sport News
Hit With Doping Ban, Jannik Sinner Now Sees Nomination Cancelled For Prestigious Award
Jannik Sinner had his nomination for the prestigious Laureus sportsman of the year award withdrawn on Thursday after he was banned for three months following two failed drugs tests, an official said. The world number one from Italy, who is the reigning US Open and Australian Open champion, twice tested positive for traces of the banned anabolic steroid clostebol in March last year. "Following discussions by the Laureus Academy it has been decided that Jannik Sinner's nomination for this year's Laureus World Sportsman of the Year Award is to be withdrawn," said the awards body chairman Sean Fitzpatrick, the former New Zealand rugby union great.
Pakistan Captain Mohammad Rizwan's Bizarre Explanation Behind Champions Trophy Exit Stuns All
Pakistan's winless campaign in the Champions Trophy continued with their match against Bangladesh being called off without a ball being bowled due to incessant rain here on Thursday. The match was effectively a dead-rubber, with both teams already out of contention after failing to secure a win in their two previous matches. Pakistan, hosting an ICC tournament for the first time in 29 years, had hoped for a strong finish but ended their disastrous campaign without a victory.
"Saw Pakistan...": South Africa Star Joins 'India Venue Advantage' Group In Champions Trophy
South African top-order batter Rassie van der Dussen said one doesn't "have to be a rocket scientist to know" that India are "definitely" in an advantageous position being based in Dubai for the ongoing Champions Trophy, but their knowledge of the conditions could also put them under pressure to fully exploit it. Rohit Sharma's men are playing all their matches in Dubai, and even the final will be held there if the team goes the distance, while the rest of the teams have to criss-cross Pakistan for their matches.
New Munster coach Clayton McMillan was hiding in plain sight
One suspects there could be a few bleary-eyed Munster fans sitting in front of their TV screens at 3:35am on Saturday morning when the Chiefs host the Brumbies in Hamilton.
Champions Trophy 2025: Afghanistan, Australia, South Africa In Fierce Battle For Semi-Final
Afghanistan's win over England at the Gaddafi Stadium in Lahore on Wednesday has put the Hasmatullah Shahidi-led side in contention for the semi-final spot from Group B along with Australia and South Africa. While India and New Zealand have been confirmed as semi-finalists from Group A, the hunt for a final-four spot in Group B is set to go right down to the wire. In a must-win contest for both teams, Afghanistan edged out England by eight runs in Lahore. The result means Jos Buttler and co are now officially out of contention for a semi-final spot.
Afghanistan's Rise In ICC Events: From Underdogs To Giant Slayers
Afghanistan's remarkable rise in international cricket continues to captivate fans worldwide. Since their ICC tournament debut in 2010, the team has evolved from an affiliate member to a formidable force, earning full membership status and reaching the knockout stages of major ICC tournaments. Their journey in ODI cricket began with a thrilling one-wicket win over Scotland in the 2015 World Cup. However, it was their impressive performance in the 2023 ODI World Cup that truly announced their arrival. Afghanistan defeated three former world champions -- England, Pakistan, and Sri Lanka -- to secure a sixth-place finish and qualify for the ICC Champions Trophy.
Pakistan End Champions Trophy Campaign Without Win As Match vs Bangladesh Called Off Due To Rain
Pakistan's winless campaign in the Champions Trophy continued with their match against Bangladesh being called off without a ball being bowled due to incessant rain in Rawalpindi on Thursday. The match was effectively a dead-rubber, with both teams already out of contention after failing to secure a win in their two previous matches. Pakistan, hosting an ICC tournament for the first time in 29 years, had hoped for a strong finish but ended their disastrous campaign without a victory. Persistent downpour left the ground soaked, with covers in place and puddles forming around the field. With weather not improving, match officials called off the game nearly two hours after the scheduled start time. The gloomy weather prevented even the toss from taking place.