Glenn Maxwell ruled out due to wrist inury, Josh Philippe called up
Glenn Maxwell, Australia’s all-rounder, was ruled out of the Twenty20 International (T20I) series against New Zealand as he suffered a severe wrist injury. He fractured his right wrist after being hit by a Mitchell Owen straight drive while bowling in Mount Maunganui.
He has been sent home and will meet a medical specialist for further investigation and treatment. The team’s medical staff believe he could recover quickly, but there are doubts about his place in the five-match series against India in October.
To fill the gap, Sydney Sixers wicketkeeper-batter Josh Philippe has been called up. While not a direct replacement for Maxwell, his inclusion ensures backup for Alex Carey, the only other keeper in the squad.
Maxwell’s fractured wrist deepens Australia’s injury woes. His absence, along with that of several other stars, forces Australia to reshuffle its plans just months before the 2026 T20 World Cup.
European football has always been a test of strength and endurance for English clubs. In the 2025/26 season, a record nine Premier League sides will compete in European events. Arsenal, Chelsea, Liverpool, Manchester City, Newcastle United, and Tottenham Hotspur enter the UEFA Champions League, Aston Villa and Nottingham Forest join the UEFA Europa League, while Crystal Palace steps into the UEFA Conference League.
However, the question arises. Does such a busy schedule lift clubs to new heights, or does it hold them back in their home league race? History shows that balancing both goals has been rare, with only a few clubs able to claim the Premier League and European crowns in the same season.
The weight of a packed season
European runs add both glamour and burden. For teams chasing trophies abroad, the number of matches can grow heavy. A club that reaches the late rounds could face up to 55 matches in one season, with 38 league fixtures, domestic cup ties, and 15 to 17 European games.
In contrast, Leicester City’s title win in 2015/16 came during a calm schedule, as they played only 43 matches and avoided Europe altogether. The gap in match load shows how rest and recovery may aid some sides while travel and midweek contests stretch others thin.
Player view: Rhythm vs fatigue
Former England defender Matthew Upson sees the matter from a player’s point of view. He recalls enjoying a steady rhythm when playing twice a week, as the pace of matches built sharpness and fitness. For players, more games often mean more chances for medals and less risk of losing match shape.
However, Upson admits that the number of matches near the winter break can become too much, pushing the need for bigger squads. Rotation is important, as rest ensures energy for others.
History of league success without Europe
Leicester’s miracle run in 2015/16 is a clear sign that freedom from Europe can fuel success. Chelsea matched the feat the following year. Even in the early Premier League years, clubs such as Manchester United in 1992/93 and Blackburn Rovers in 1994/95 had little European strain when they took the title.
Since England received four Champions League spots after the 2001/02 season, it is rare for Premier League clubs to reach the top-four spots in the domestic league without experience in continental football leagues like the UCL and the Europa League. Still, the dream of ruling both at home and abroad is not impossible.
Manchester United did so in 1998/99 and 2007/08, while Manchester City reached the same glory in 2022/23. Liverpool’s older double wins in 1976/77 and 1983/84 remain part of English football pride. These rare feats prove that, while hard, it is not beyond reach.
The strain of extra matches
The current season has already shown how fast the calendar can grow. Crystal Palace had played seven matches before mid-September, including qualifiers and the Community Shield, and may reach 29 by Christmas.
By contrast, sides like Bournemouth, Leeds United, Manchester United, Sunderland, and West Ham United could play only 18 by that point, with no Europe and early cup exits. More games mean more risks, from injuries to poor form, but fewer games can also lead to longer waits between matches, which may stall rhythm.
Upson stresses that breaks can help if the training mood is good. If form dips and morale sinks, long gaps can hurt more than they help. Players then face long days at the training ground with no quick chance to fix their troubles on the pitch.
Europe can hurt league form
For some clubs, the push for Europe has come at a sharp cost in the league. Tottenham won the UEFA Europa League last season by beating Manchester United in the final, yet they slumped to 17th in the Premier League.
Meanwhile, United ended only one spot higher. Spurs won their first European competition since 1984, but their underperformance in the Premier League still led to Ange Postecoglou's exit.
Burnley’s 2018/19 season showed another case. They played six UEFA Europa League qualifiers by August, failed to reach the group stage, and ended 15th in the league, far worse than the year before.
Newcastle in 2012/13 advanced to the UEFA Europa League quarter-finals but slumped to 16th in the league. Both Blackburn in 1998/99 and Ipswich Town in 2001/02 were relegated while in European contests. The toll of travel, fatigue, and split focus has often left sides vulnerable.
Strange without Europe
For some giants, a season without European ties feels unusual. Manchester United, for example, last played a campaign without Europe in 2014/15. This year marks only their second such season since the 1990s.
Already out of the Carabao Cup, they may finish with their lowest match total in the Premier League era unless they make a deep FA Cup run. A lighter schedule may bring rest, but can also rob players of the stage they are used to.
The balance of risk and reward
European football remains a dream and a danger. The lure of silverware and the honour of continental glory drive clubs to chase it, even as the Premier League demands steady focus week after week.
Clubs outside Europe gain longer rest and simpler schedules, while those in Europe face fatigue but gain chances at history. The question lingers each season. Is it better to stay fresh and fight at home, or to risk a heavy load in pursuit of a greater prize?
The true cost of glory
The story of English clubs in Europe has always been about balance. Some sides have thrived, finding ways to claim both home and abroad. Others have struggled, paying the price of split focus with poor league finishes or even relegation.
This season, with nine clubs carrying the extra weight, the test will be greater than ever. By spring, the answer may be clearer. Is the dream of Europe worth the risk of losing ground in the Premier League?
Top Esports and Invictus Gaming earn LPL slots for Worlds 2025
The 2025 LPL Regional Finals ended on September 27, securing the last two Chinese teams for the League of Legends World Championship (Worlds 2025). Over three days, Top Esports and Invictus Gaming fought through fierce matches to join Bilibili Gaming and Anyone’s Legend at the year’s biggest stage.
Top Esports showed sharp form, clearing their path to the top. Meanwhile, Invictus Gaming battled in the lower bracket, where they overpowered JD Gaming 3–1 to clinch the last slot. The event peaked at 214,789 viewers, ranking 9th in LPL history and 3rd among all regional finals. Fans rallied around each match, showing the league's strength even at the season’s end.
LoL Worlds 2025 will take place in China from October 14 to November 11 with a prize pool of $5 million. With four home teams, China sets its sights on breaking South Korea’s run and lifting the Summoner’s Cup again.
Ireland’s cricket struggles as England enjoys a packed summer
England closed their cricket summer with Twenty20 matches in the following days, adding to a busy run of eight white-ball games in three weeks. For Ireland, who host England in Malahide, the picture is starkly different. Their last home series was against the West Indies in June, and two of those matches were washed out. Ireland’s players and fans face long gaps between games, a problem that has become common in recent years.
Cancelled tours and high costs
Ireland’s cricket schedule has suffered repeated setbacks. A tour by Australia was cancelled last year, while Afghanistan’s planned visit this summer was also dropped due to financial strain. Without a permanent stadium, Cricket Ireland must build temporary stands and facilities each time an international match is held, adding heavy costs.
Former Chief Executive Officer Warren Deutrom explained that while the board gained more funding from the International Cricket Council, rising from €10.2m to €16.4m in 2024, resources are now spread across different areas of the sport.
A push for long-term solutions
To solve infrastructure challenges, Cricket Ireland has secured government approval to build a new stadium in west Dublin. The ground is planned to be ready before the 2030 T20 World Cup, which Ireland will co-host with England and Scotland. Leaders hope this project will provide a permanent home for the sport and reduce the high expense of temporary venues.
However, short-term challenges remain. A new franchise event, the European T20 Premier League (ETPL), was expected to begin in July 2024 but was delayed to 2026. Despite promotion with investor Abhishek Bachchan, no franchise owners were confirmed, leaving another gap in the calendar.
Leadership changes and player concerns
Deutrom stepped down after 19 years as chief executive, saying he wanted to focus on the ETPL as chair. He admitted that the league’s launch timeline was too ambitious but remains hopeful of securing long-term investment.
For players like Paul Stirling, however, the key issue is the lack of matches. He believes the ETPL could raise standards by bringing in overseas talent, but until then, Ireland remains at a disadvantage compared with rivals like England, who benefit from constant cricket through formats such as the Hundred.
Building Ireland’s cricket future
Ireland’s cricket future depends on more than plans and funding. A permanent home ground and a successful league could provide stability, but the immediate need is clear. Players must play more often to compete at the highest level. Until that happens, Ireland will continue to fall behind stronger cricket nations that enjoy busy summers.
The women's team has received a good share of the funding. Recently, they have had promising results, including multiple wins in the ICC Women's T20 World Cup Qualifiers against teams like Italy and Germany.
Plans to stage LALIGA and Serie A outside Europe have sparked outrage across the football community. Leagues may pursue financial gains and global reach, but football is not just a trade. It's tradition, culture, and pride tied to European soil.
The Union of European Football Associations (UEFA) is still consulting stakeholders, but time ticks fast. Should fast gains break deep trust? The clear call is no. This sport grew with fans, and moving it abroad risks the bond that holds it whole. Here's why the game should stay in Europe, or the heart that drives it may start to fade:
Controversial proposals
LALIGA’s push to stage a league match in Miami and Serie A’s bid to play in Perth have sparked fierce debate. UEFA knows the stakes but stalls on a decision.
EU Commissioner for Intergenerational Fairness, Youth, Culture, and Sport, Glenn Micallef, calls it a betrayal of fans. Groups like Football Supporters Europe also warn of 'deterritorialisation', the stripping down of the game's home roots. Leagues feel the heat grow as they chase rich new crowds. What seems like bold growth might cut deep ties that shaped the game.
Fans and tradition must lead
UEFA President Aleksander Čeferin draws a clear stance: clubs belong in Europe. To him, profit must not uproot the game. Fans also stand firm on this ground.
The message from supporters is clear: clubs rise from local roots, thriving through fans who show up, travel far, and preserve the chants of generations. These ties span time, passed from kin to kin. Strip that away, and the game risks more than money can fix.
Profit cannot replace passion
LALIGA and Serie A push back hard. Their justification rests on global exposure, financial gains, and maintaining a competitive edge. LALIGA President Javier Tebas dismisses it as just one match out of 380.
However, doubt grows as critics warn that once money steers their focus, fans lose their place. A small shift may grow fast, with roots cut bit by bit. True growth should lift the base, not push aside the crowd that gave the game life.
Rules and responsibility matter
UEFA has limited legal power to prevent leagues from holding games abroad, instead leaning on talks with key groups. The risk of approval is stark. Letting LALIGA or Serie A play overseas would set a difficult rule, opening the path to more challenges to long-standing norms.
It could also draw scrutiny from the EU Commission, with difficult issues on rules and fairness. These frameworks exist to shield the game’s roots and trust. Bending them for growth abroad could crack this integrity. In turn, the foundation of Europe’s football grows weak.
Europe must protect their sporting heritage
As Glenn Micallef puts it, fans must see their teams at home. Lawmakers, he adds, must guard the game’s core. This debate cut past sport, reaching deep into pride and politics. Europe has stood firm in global matters, like its ban on Russian teams, to defend principles. They must now shield their own field from potential erosion.
Tradition over profit: The future of football starts at home
A fair path is clear: playing friendlies, tournaments, or exhibitions can showcase European football abroad, but it's crucial to keep league ties at home. This compromise lets clubs gain reach and court new crowds while maintaining trust in local and European play.
Global reach may be tempting, but roots, pride, and loyal fans must come first. The game’s fate rests with the communities that hold it up. To guard both trust and bond, UEFA, leagues, and authorities must keep dialogue with fans at the heart and set a firm bar against shifting league ties abroad.
PKL Season 12 returns to Chennai; Tamil Thalaivas eye home advantage
The Pro Kabaddi League (PKL) Season 12 is confirmed to return to Chennai at the SDAT Multipurpose Indoor Stadium from September 29 to October 10. This will mark the third leg of the season after successful runs in Vizag and Jaipur.
Anupam Goswami, Business Head, Mashal Sports and League Chairman of PKL, expressed their excitement for PKL’s return to Chennai. He said, ‘We are thrilled to bring the Pro Kabaddi League back to Chennai after two years. Tamil Nadu has always been one of the great kabaddi geographies of India, with a deep cultural and regional connection to the sport.’
The return is particularly special for Tamil Thalaivas, the home team, as they will benefit from the home crowd support of Chennai’s passionate kabaddi fans. The organisers highlight Tamil Nadu’s historic connection to kabaddi, with legends like Dharmaraj Cheralathan and K Baskaran laying a strong foundation. Now, a new generation of players is continuing the legacy.
Fnatic moved forward at VALORANT Champions 2025 after defeating Paper Rex 2-1 in the upper bracket semifinal. Despite missing Emir 'Alfajer' Beder due to health issues, Fnatic relied on stand-in Domagoj 'Doma' Fancev and secured a spot in the next round. The win placed Paper Rex in the lower bracket, where survival is now their only path.
Paper Rex started strong on Bind, winning 13-10, with Khalish 'd4v41' Rusyaidee punishing Fnatic’s slow plays. However, Fnatic struck back on Haven, using calls from Jake 'Boaster' Howlett and a strong Yoru run from Kajetan 'kaajak' Haremski, which helped them claim a 13-4 win.
The last map, Lotus, saw Paper Rex dominate the first half with a 9-3 lead. Still, Fnatic staged a major comeback by winning 12 rounds in a row, closing the map 13-9 and the match 2-1. Fnatic and NRG will meet in the upper bracket final on October 3 in Paris.
Injury setback: Litton Das to miss BAN T20I match vs AFG
Bangladesh will face Afghanistan without skipper Litton Das, who has been ruled out of the T20Is tour due to an injury. Scans showed a Grade 1 strain in his left abdominal muscle, which he picked up during the Asia Cup.
Das already missed the team’s last two matches in that event, and doctors have now advised rest. ‘I think he will need at least three weeks to recover, so chances are slim of seeing him during the series,’ a Bangladesh team official shared. His absence is a big blow for the Tigers, as he is both the captain and a key batter at the top of the order.
With Das on the sideline, wicketkeeper Jaker Ali will step in as the captain for the series. He’s also the one who took charge in the Asia Cup, and now has another chance to guide the Tigers.
The three-match T20Is vs Afghanistan begin on Thursday, October 2, in Sharjah, UAE.
When Peru’s Dota 2 squads like Thunder Awaken made a surprise top-six run at The International (TI), one truth rang clear: top play is no longer locked to North America, Europe, or East Asia. The map is shifting fast, with new regions rising on raw skill, passionate fans, and fresh ground to grow.
Factors fueling global esports growth
Esports is no longer bound to traditional hubs. It’s growing fast across the globe, with low-cost equipment, new funds, and strong fan drive sparking the rise.
If momentum is maintained, several factors can accelerate growth, such as:
More people playing on mobile: Affordable smartphones and free-to-play games have cut the cost wall, letting the masses join without pricey computers. This ease has pulled groups once shut out of the world of gaming.
Better internet and faster connections: Astronger, steadier internet connection is shifting casual play to serious grind. Regions once tagged 'offline' now stand in global tournaments.
Support from major teams and local leaders: Major organisations are scouting fresh talent hubs, while governments and investors treat esports as a growing industry. Together, they’re building training camps, leagues, and opportunities for aspiring players.
Streaming and social media boost player exposure: Platforms like Twitch, YouTube, and TikTok give players global exposure, where viral clips and live fan chats can fast-track fame and open new doors.
Rising esports nations to watch out for
South Korea, China, and the US still rule the lights, but the next big stories may rise from new soil. Dark horse nations are rising quickly, fueled by raw skill, fierce drive, and strong support, positioning them as the next true powers in esports.
From unexpected wins to young rising stars, these nations flip the script on who rules the stage. Here are the underrated esports nations that more fans should talk about:
Philippines
The Philippines now stands as a fast-rising hub, led by games like Mobile Legends, VALORANT, and Dota 2. Squads like Bren Esports highlight the Philippines’ growth in skill, with regional rivalries against teams like Indonesia’s Rex Regum Qeon (RRQ). What further lifts the country is their fierce, loud fans and mobile-first play, which makes the game open to all.
Vietnam
Vietnam has emerged as a serious esports force, excelling in League of Legends (LoL), PUBG Mobile, and Free Fire. GAM Esports shook LoL Worlds, showing the nation can match the best.
Their strength comes from sharp skills and growing support, backed by state aid and private funds. With focused training, new arenas, and a strong regional foothold, Vietnam is building a base to become a future power.
Brazil
Brazil has long been a powerhouse in esports, with a focus on Counter-Strike 2 (CS2), LoL, and Free Fire. Their teams often reach world finals, showing raw skill and fierce fight. The country has a huge, passionate fan base and a rich local scene.
However, hurdles such as thin funds and patchy internet can slow the rise. Still, Brazil’s steady talent flow and deep drive make it a nation the esports world must watch.
Mexico
Mexico is rising fast in esports, especially in the Latin American LoL scene and Free Fire. Their growth is fueled by sponsors, strong fan support, and wider access to gaming spaces.
Mexican players are also gaining regional fame, while grassroots events keep feeding the talent stream. With steady funds and active fans, Mexico is set to become a top force in Latin America.
Saudi Arabia
It's no secret that Saudi Arabia is quickly becoming a Middle East esports hub. Currently, they perform well in Fortnite, VALORANT, and PUBG Mobile. State funds support leagues, new arenas, and training hubs.
The focus is on pro gaming, providing opportunities for teams and players to reach global stages. With strong financial support and strategy, Saudi Arabia grows local talent and draws the world's attention.
Egypt
Egypt is rising as an esports nation, with growing CS2 and Fortnite scenes. Local events uncover and train young talent nationwide. Meanwhile, players gain skill and fame in regional contests, laying the foundation for Egypt to join the Middle East and North Africa (MENA) top ranks.
With more funds, better internet, and strong fan support, Egypt can challenge top nations and grow players ready for the world stage.
South Africa
South Africa is gradually staking its claim in esports, with rising play in Fortnite and LoL. However, the nation faces weak internet, few sponsors, and a small pro scene.
Despite these challenges, new players shine in regional matches, and local leagues gain momentum. Competitions and fan-led events grow talent and build a strong base. With steady funds and support, South Africa can boost its reach and compete on the global stage.
Romania
Romania is gaining ground in esports, especially in CS2, with a growing Dota 2 community. Local tournaments also give players space to grow and gain world stage experience.
A growing fan base, with more access to training and events, helps shape talent ready for global play. This push signals a bright future for Romanian esports.
Key challenges and future outlook
As esports expands worldwide, new nations show they could reach the top in a few years. However, growth is still not guaranteed, as these nations face hurdles that may slow their rise on the global esports scene.
Several challenges hinder nations from reaching their full potential, such as:
Lack of funding and sponsors: Many promising teams falter without steady funds. With few sponsors, teams lack access to proper training and competitive opportunities, slowing their growth.
Few chances to join major tournaments: New players often compete in local events, missing opportunities to face top global talent, which makes it difficult to adjust to elite, high-stress play.
Limited facilities and tech support: Inadequate gaming hubs, patchy internet, and few pro arenas block training and hosting events. These limits slow skill and fan growth.
Player retention challenges: Top players are often picked up by foreign teams with higher pay and better tools. This 'brain drain' can weaken domestic leagues and stall local esports growth.
Tomorrow's champions: Keep your eyes on the rising stars
A new batch of nations rises, ready to challenge the current esports giants. The scene feels fresh and wild, as global play brings new skills and styles to light.
From strong local scenes to state-backed programs, these rising nations shape esports’ next chapter. Watch closely, as new champions may hail from these slept-on nations, flipping the global map.
Pakistan beats Bangladesh by 11 runs, sets up India final
Pakistan pulled off a stunning comeback in the Asia Cup 2025 Super Four clash at the Dubai International Cricket Stadium. They beat Bangladesh by 11 runs. The win sets up a tense final with India on Sunday, September 28.
Bangladesh won the toss and chose to field. They struck fast, and Pakistan lost five wickets for 49 runs. Taskin Ahmed led the attack, taking three key wickets and keeping Pakistan under pressure in the first 10 overs.
Pakistan bounced back with strong lower-order hits. Mohammad Haris scored 31, Mohammad Nawaz 25, and Shaheen Afridi 19. This pushed the total score to 135 for 8 in 20 overs.
Bangladesh looked set for victory but faltered under pressure. Shaheen Afridi and Haris Rauf never let them settle, making tight bowls and crucial wickets. In the end, Bangladesh finished 124 for 9, short of 11 runs. Pakistan’s win books a final against India, setting up a fierce clash.
