Sports - The Daily Ittefaq

FIFA offers World Cup final pitch pieces for sale at $450 each

UNB — Sat, 11 Jul 2026 22:37:19 +0600

FIFA has begun selling pieces of the pitch that will be used in the 2026 FIFA World Cup final at MetLife Stadium, offering fans a chance to own a souvenir from the tournament for $450 per piece. GeographicReference The collectible, available through FIFA's official online store, contains an authentic fragment of the grass from the July 19 final, preserved in premium acrylic and... Details

France, Morocco kick off blockbuster World Cup quarter-finals

BSS — Thu, 09 Jul 2026 09:33:40 +0600

France take on Morocco on Thursday in a blockbuster World Cup quarter-final showdown as the largest and most logistically complex edition of the footballing showpiece ever staged enters the home straight. After a month of spellbinding action that has seen 280 goals scored in 96 matches, the expanded field of 48 has been whittled down to just eight teams who are dreaming of winning the title at... Details

Argentina produce epic World Cup fightback to beat Egypt

BSS — Wed, 08 Jul 2026 09:45:55 +0600

Argentina staged a stunning comeback from 2-0 down to avoid a stunning exit at the hands of Egypt and prolong Lionel Messi's World Cup career with a 3-2 win to reach the quarter-finals. The holders looked down and out when goals from Yasser Ibrahim and Mostafa Ziko, either side of Messi having a penalty saved, put the Pharaohs in sight of a historic victory in Atlanta. However, Cristian... Details

Merino's late goal sends Spain into World Cup quarterfinals

UNB — Tue, 07 Jul 2026 07:32:08 +0600

Mikel Merino struck deep into stoppage time to give Spain a dramatic 1-0 victory over Portugal on Monday, booking La Roja's place in the quarterfinals of the 2026 FIFA World Cup and bringing Cristiano Ronaldo's World Cup career to an end. Merino, who came on as a substitute in the 85th minute, scored in the opening minute of second-half added time. After winning a free kick, he quickly... Details

Brazil journey is over: Neymar

UNB — Mon, 06 Jul 2026 10:05:57 +0600

Neymar said Sunday he is done playing for Brazil’s national team, making the announcement after he and his teammates were knocked out of the World Cup with a 2-1 loss to Norway in the round of 16. “I tried,” Neymar said. “It started here at MetLife Stadium, and I finished here. It is now over.” Neymar, 34, played his first game for Brazil on Aug. 10, 2010 —... Details

Haaland's double ends Brazil's World Cup dream

UNB — Mon, 06 Jul 2026 09:28:34 +0600

Erling Haaland headed in the go-ahead goal in the 80th minute and scored again before the end of regulation time, carrying Norway into the World Cup quarterfinals for the first time with a 2-1 victory over Brazil on Sunday that showcased the young striker on soccer’s biggest stage. Haaland, after being a nonfactor for much of the afternoon and having limited touches, turned it on when it... Details

France battle past Paraguay to set up Morocco WC showdown

BSS — Sun, 05 Jul 2026 09:29:55 +0600

Kylian Mbappe scored from the penalty spot as France overcame searing heat and stubborn defence to beat Paraguay 1-0 and set up a World Cup quarter-final against Morocco on Saturday. France captain Mbappe coolly stroked in a 70th-minute spot-kick to settle a tense duel with the tough-tackling Paraguayans in furnace-like conditions at Philadelphia's Lincoln Financial Field. The goal was... Details

Messi leads Argentina past Cape Verde in 3-2 extra-time thriller

UNB — Sat, 04 Jul 2026 10:52:31 +0600

Lionel Messi and defending champions Argentina survived a dramatic scare on Friday, edging Cape Verde 3-2 after extra time to secure a place in the FIFA World Cup Round of 16. Following the final whistle, Messi and his teammates showed visible relief after overcoming a spirited challenge from tournament debutants Cape Verde, who twice fought back to level the match before finally falling... Details

Portugal survive Croatia test, reach round of 16

UNB — Fri, 03 Jul 2026 11:11:05 +0600

Goncalo Ramos headed in the stoppage-time winner as Portugal beat Croatia 2-1 in a wild finish that also included a Croatian goal disallowed for offside just before the final whistle in a World Cup round of 32 match on Thursday night. The game featured a matchup 40-somethings Cristiano Ronaldo of Portugal, in his sixth World Cup, and Croatia’s Luka Modrić, making his fifth bid for a... Details

Three die in Mexico City World Cup celebrations

Click Ittefaq Desk — Wed, 01 Jul 2026 23:01:21 +0600

A 19-year-old woman is among three people to have died from suffocation during World Cup celebrations in Mexico City on Tuesday. A 48-year-old woman and a 44-year-old man also died after crowds descended on the city following the country's 2-0 victory over Ecuador, the capital's health authority said on Wednesday, reports the BBC. More than one million people took to the streets, mainly... Details

Heat wave threatens World Cup knockout matches

UNB — Tue, 30 Jun 2026 11:35:56 +0600

A powerful heat wave is expected to grip much of the central and eastern United States this week, bringing dangerously high temperatures to several cities hosting FIFA World Cup knockout matches and raising concerns for both players and fans. Forecasters say a strong heat dome will push temperatures and humidity to uncomfortable levels, with the heat index, or the "feels-like" temperature,... Details

Paraguay stun Germany on penalties to reach World Cup last 16

UNB — Tue, 30 Jun 2026 09:38:22 +0600

Paraguay pulled off one of the biggest upsets of the 2026 FIFA World Cup by defeating four-time champions Germany 4-3 in a penalty shootout after a 1-1 draw following extra time, securing a place in the Round of 16. The match at Foxborough, Massachusetts, remained deadlocked after 120 minutes before goalkeeper Orlando Gill made two crucial saves in the shootout. José Canale then... Details

Messi first player to score in seven straight World Cup games

UNB — Sun, 28 Jun 2026 15:22:20 +0600

Lionel Messi became the first player to score in seven consecutive FIFA World Cup matches after netting in Argentina's final Group J game against Jordan on Saturday, extending his all-time tournament scoring record. The 39-year-old scored his 19th World Cup goal in the 80th minute with a precise free kick after being fouled just outside the penalty area. His low strike slipped through two... Details

Congo make history with 3-1 comeback win over Uzbekistan

UNB — Sun, 28 Jun 2026 09:54:13 +0600

For 52 years, Congo secured a historic place in the FIFA World Cup knockout stage for the first time with a 3-1 comeback victory over Uzbekistan on Saturday, setting up a Round of 32 clash against England. Making their first World Cup appearance since competing as Zaire in 1974, Congo recovered from an early setback after Eldor Shomurodov gave Uzbekistan the lead with a lobbed finish in the... Details

Why has Trump stayed away from the World Cup?

Click Ittefaq Desk — Sat, 27 Jun 2026 00:17:40 +0600

United States President Donald Trump was expected by many to regularly feature at the World Cup. But he is yet to attend a single match, despite the United States team winning two of their three group games and qualifying for the knockout stages. So is it a surprise? Why may he have stayed away? And will he appear before the final? BBC Sport takes a closer look. "My fellow Americans,... Details

Messi sets World Cup scoring record

UNB — Tue, 23 Jun 2026 09:54:30 +0600

Lionel Messi scored his 17th and 18th World Cup goals to set a new tournament scoring record as defending champions Argentina secured a place in the knockout stage with a 2-0 victory over Austria on Monday. Messi had an early chance to break the record in the ninth minute but sent his penalty kick wide of the right post. The Argentina captain made amends in the 38th minute when he capitalised... Details

Japan thrash Tunisia 4-0 as Ueda scores twice

Sun, 21 Jun 2026 13:56:57 +0600

Japan's Ayase Ueda, center, scores their fourth goal with a header against Tunisia during the World Cup Group F soccer match in Guadalupe, near Monterrey, Mexico, Saturday, June 20, 2026. (AP Photo/Matias Delacroix) Ayase Ueda struck twice as Japan hammered Tunisia 4-0 in their Group F match on Saturday, moving a step closer to reaching the FIFA World Cup knockout stage for the fourth... Details

Brazil cruise past Haiti to re-ignite World Cup campaign

BSS — Sat, 20 Jun 2026 09:17:30 +0600

Matheus Cunha scored twice as Brazil eased past Haiti 3-0 on Friday to breathe life into their World Cup campaign and close in on a spot in the last 32. After a much-criticised display in their opening 1-1 draw with Morocco, the five-time world champions underlined the gulf in class with outsiders Haiti, who became the first country to exit this World Cup. Cunha's scruffy goal in Philadelphia... Details

Australia hold off Bangladesh fightback to seal T20I series

UNB — Fri, 19 Jun 2026 18:18:01 +0600

Australia secured a seven-run victory over Bangladesh in the second T20I in Chattogram on Friday, defending a total of 196, to take a 2-0 lead in the three-match T20 International series. Aaron Hardie held his nerve in a high-scoring final over, dismissing Bangladesh captain Towhid Hridoy for 35 off the final ball to restrict the hosts to 189 for 6. Bangladesh needed 23 runs from the final... Details

Brazil fans heed warning over Rocky statue at World Cup

UNB — Fri, 19 Jun 2026 10:55:22 +0600

Brazil fans who went the distance up the Philadelphia Museum of Art steps to pose with the Rocky statue left the fictional fighter just as they found him. Every Brazilian fan — in Philadelphia to watch their team play Haiti on Friday at the World Cup — who stopped for a snapshot or a selfie with the 9-foot-11, 1,300-pound beast left the statue dressed in only his bronze trunks and... Details

Giant Argentina jersey adorns Mirpur

UNB — Wed, 17 Jun 2026 21:45:19 +0600

Football fever has swept through the capital, with a giant Argentina jersey drawing crowds in Mirpur's Ibrahimpur area during the FIFA World Cup. Measuring 40 feet by 30 feet, the blue-and-white jersey was erected by local Argentina supporters and has quickly become a popular attraction for football fans. Alif, one of the organisers, said the initiative aimed to express their passion for... Details

Messi's first WC hat trick powers Argentina to 3-0 win over Algeria

UNB — Wed, 17 Jun 2026 09:58:28 +0600

Lionel Messi scored the first World Cup hat trick of his career and moved level with Miroslav Klose atop the tournament's all-time scoring chart as defending champion Argentina cruised to a 3-0 victory over Algeria in its opening Group J match on Tuesday night. Messi struck his first goal within minutes of kickoff after being set up by his Inter Miami teammate Rodrigo De Paul. He added a... Details

Thousands watch Brazil’s WC match on big screen at DU

UNB — Sun, 14 Jun 2026 11:23:09 +0600

Thousands of football enthusiasts stayed up late at the Teacher-Student Centre (TSC) of Dhaka University (DU) to watch Brazil’s FIFA World Cup match against Morocco, which kicked off at 4:00am on Sunday, on a giant screen, turning the area into a vibrant gathering spot for supporters of the five-time world champions. Fans from different parts of the capital flocked to the venue to cheer... Details

Why Shakira’s ‘Dai Dai’ can’t surpass ‘Waka Waka’ as FIFA World Cup anthem

UNB — Fri, 12 Jun 2026 14:53:11 +0600

Colombian superstar Shakira once again stole the spotlight at a FIFA World Cup opening ceremony, but her latest anthem ‘Dai Dai’ has already drawn inevitable comparisons with her legendary 2010 hit ‘Waka Waka (This Time for Africa)’. The 2026 FIFA World Cup kicked off at the iconic Azteca Stadium in Mexico City with thousands of fans gathering to witness the grand... Details

3 red cards mar Mexico-South Africa World Cup opener

Fri, 12 Jun 2026 10:41:13 +0600

The opening match of the World Cup delivered a rarity in international soccer: three players sent off with red cards. No World Cup match has had that many players ejected since a 2006 game between Portugal and the Netherlands, when four players received red cards — a World Cup record. The last World Cup in Qatar in 2022 had only four red cards in the entire tournament. On Thursday at... Details

World Cup fever grips Bangladesh

UNB — Fri, 12 Jun 2026 04:54:17 +0600

The FIFA World Cup kicks off tonight, and although Bangladesh is not among the participating nations, excitement surrounding football’s biggest event has reached fever pitch as always across the country of 170 million people. From bustling cities to remote neighborhoods, conversations revolve around one question: will Brazil, Argentina, France or Cristiano Ronaldo's Portugal lift the... Details

World Cup fever grips Bangladesh

UNB — Fri, 12 Jun 2026 04:53:10 +0600

Tigers roar to maiden ODI series triumph over Australia

UNB — Thu, 11 Jun 2026 21:07:26 +0600

Bangladesh have made history at Mirpur on Thursday, securing their first-ever ODI series victory over Australia with a five-wicket win in the rain-affected second match. Following a lengthy weather delay that revised their target via the DLS method, the hosts chased down 192 runs in just 35 overs, sealing the three-match bilateral series with a game to spare. When the play resumed after the... Details

Historic 48-team FIFA World Cup begins today

UNB — Thu, 11 Jun 2026 11:50:12 +0600

The FIFA World Cup, the largest edition in the tournament’s history, officially begins today as 48 national teams start their quest for football’s most coveted trophy across the United States, Canada and Mexico. According to Associated Press reports, the opening day marks the start of a 39-day global football spectacle featuring 104 matches played across 16 stadiums in 16 cities,... Details

A World Cup guide for new football fans

Click Ittefaq Desk — Wed, 10 Jun 2026 23:31:15 +0600

It's difficult to miss the buzz and excitement surrounding the Fifa World Cup. Football (or soccer, as they call it in North America) is the world's most popular sport and the World Cup is the most prestigious prize of them all, BBC reports. For the first time in the tournament's nearly 100-year history, it will be jointly hosted by three countries - Mexico, Canada and the United States. The... Details

World Cup nears kickoff after pre-tournament turbulence

BSS — Wed, 10 Jun 2026 09:51:04 +0600

The World Cup kicks off on Thursday with FIFA betting that the enduring appeal of the greatest footballing show on earth can rise above mounting anger at ticket prices and a US immigration crackdown that has seen fans, a top referee and team officials barred from the tournament. A record 48 teams and millions of fans are set to descend on the United States, Canada and Mexico for the first... Details

Nahid Rana, Mosaddek power Bangladesh to historic win over Australia

UNB — Tue, 09 Jun 2026 22:06:43 +0600

A fiery spell of high-pace bowling from youngster Nahid Rana after Mosaddek Hossain’s brilliant batting performance guided Bangladesh to a comprehensive 86-run victory over Australia under the DLS method in the first ODI at Mirpur on Tuesday. It marks Bangladesh's second ODI win against Australia, and their first since the historic 2005 triumph in Cardiff. Defending 284 for 8, the... Details

BTV to telecast FIFA World Cup 2026

BSS — Tue, 09 Jun 2026 12:56:16 +0600

The government has made an arrangement to telecast the 2026 FIFA World Cup alongside several other partners through Bangladesh Television (BTV), Information and Broadcasting Minister Zahir Uddin Swapon said here. In a statement issued here today, the minister said the ministry would shortly provide official details to media outlets regarding the broadcasting arrangement. "I am very happy to... Details

Tamim Iqbal elected BCB president

BSS — Sun, 07 Jun 2026 21:44:13 +0600

Former Bangladesh captain Tamim Iqbal was elected president of the Bangladesh Cricket Board (BCB) today after securing a convincing victory in the board directors' election held at the Sher-e-Bangla National Cricket Stadium in Mirpur. Tamim, who had been serving as the head of the BCB's ad hoc committee for the past two months, first won a director's position from the Dhaka... Details

BCB election set for Sunday amid controversy, criticism

UNB — Sat, 06 Jun 2026 16:11:14 +0600

Amid mounting criticism over political infiltration and conflict of interest, the Bangladesh Cricket Board (BCB) is set to hold its highly controversial election on Sunday. In a bid to defuse the growing backlash, BCB Ad-hoc Committee Chief Tamim Iqbal called on candidates to separate their personal backgrounds from their administrative responsibilities, urging them to leave their individual... Details

Hospitality jobs boom as US prepares for World Cup

Click Ittefaq Desk — Fri, 05 Jun 2026 23:59:17 +0600

The US economy created 172,000 jobs in May as pubs, bars and restaurants ramped up hiring ahead of the World Cup. They were primarily created in leisure and hospitality, local government, and health care, according to the Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS), BBC reports. The figures cover the lead-up to this summer's tournament, being jointly hosted by the US, Mexico and Canada. Employment in... Details

FIFA introduces advanced offside technology

UNB — Thu, 04 Jun 2026 11:21:22 +0600

FIFA has announced a new generation of semi-automated offside technology for the 2026 World Cup, a move aimed at speeding up decisions and reducing the need for assistant referees to delay raising the offside flag. The upgraded system will work alongside the Video Assistant Referee (VAR) and send a real-time audio alert to assistant referees when a player is more than 10 centimetres offside.... Details

List of squads, players announced so far

UNB — Wed, 03 Jun 2026 09:59:24 +0600

Countries have started to announce their 26-man squads for the World Cup in the US, Canada and Mexico. The tournament is the biggest yet, with 48 teams, and runs from 11 June to 19 July. You can see the squads below as they are announced. Group A Mexico: Goalkeepers: Raul Rangel (Guadalajara), Guillermo Ochoa (AEL Limassol), Carlos Acevedo (Santos Laguna). Defenders: Jorge Sanchez (PAOK),... Details

To counter bad light pause in Test, ICC to trial pink ball

UNB — Tue, 02 Jun 2026 19:12:43 +0600

The International Cricket Council (ICC) said this week that it will trial pink cricket balls in traditional Test matches to prevent play from being interrupted by fading light. The strategic shift addresses a persistent issue in the sport's longest format. While red balls become virtually invisible under murky skies, white limited-overs balls degrade too quickly to survive the rigorous demands... Details

Hundreds arrested in France after wild Champions League celebrations

Click Ittefaq Desk — Sun, 31 May 2026 10:05:15 +0600

Clashes between football fans and police across France have led to more than 400 arrests following the victory of Paris Saint-Germain (PSG) in the Champions League final against Arsenal. Thousands of officers were deployed to curb unrest that disrupted bus, train and rail services in the capital Paris, reports the BBC. Fireworks and flares were set off, while several police officers were... Details

High transport costs frustrate World Cup fans in US host cities

UNB — Wed, 27 May 2026 11:34:26 +0600

Football fans planning to attend World Cup matches in the United States are expressing frustration over high transportation costs, adding to already expensive tickets, flights and accommodation. In previous tournaments, host countries made travel easier and often free for fans. Germany’s 2006 World Cup, known as a “Summer Fairy Tale,” offered free public transport with match... Details

Bangladesh crush Pakistan in 2nd test to sweep series

BSS — Wed, 20 May 2026 14:35:17 +0600

Left-arm spinner Taijul Islam claimed a match-winning six-wicket haul as Bangladesh thrashed Pakistan by 78 runs in the second Test, completing a dominant 2-0 series sweep at Sylhet International Cricket Stadium today. The victory followed Bangladesh's 104-run triumph in the opening Test and marked their second successive Test series whitewash over Pakistan after also securing a 2-0 sweep in... Details

Mexico cancels plans to end school year early for World Cup

Click Ittefaq Desk — Tue, 12 May 2026 19:19:44 +0600

The Mexican government has cancelled plans to end the school year more than a month early to ease traffic during the Fifa World Cup and an anticipated heatwave. Mexico is due to co-host the football tournament with the United States and Canada from 11 June to 19 July, BBC reports. The reversal comes after an outcry by parents who warned that it would disrupt their children's studies. Many... Details

BCB names Women’s T20 World Cup squad

UNB — Sun, 10 May 2026 15:39:46 +0600

Nigar Sultana Joty will lead Bangladesh at the 2026 ICC Women’s T20 World Cup in England and Wales as the Bangladesh Cricket Board (BCB) announced the squad on Sunday. The 15-member team, featuring Vice Captain Nahida Akter, are scheduled to depart for Edinburgh on May 25. Before the tournament begins, the Tigresses will compete in a tri-nation series against Scotland and the... Details

Man City vs Arsenal set for title-defining match

UNB — Sun, 19 Apr 2026 22:08:33 +0600

It's a huge day in the Premier League title race, with Arsenal travelling to Manchester City in a meeting between the top two. A win for Arsenal and the long-time league leaders will regain a nine-point advantage, leaving them in a strong position to become English champions for the first time since 2004. A win for City and the gap would be reduced to three points. City would also have a game... Details

Bangladesh lose early wickets in pursuit of 249 vs NZ

UNB — Fri, 17 Apr 2026 18:42:57 +0600

Bangladesh reached 51 for two after 10 overs in pursuit of a 248-run target against New Zealand, following a brief top-order collapse sparked by fast bowler Nathan Smith. New Zealand posted 247 for eight in their allotted 50 overs after winning the toss and electing to bat first, anchored by half-centuries from Henry Nicholls and Dean Foxcroft. In the chase, Bangladesh encountered immediate... Details

BCB launches ‘Captains’ Card’

UNB — Thu, 16 Apr 2026 23:31:05 +0600

The Bangladesh Cricket Board (BCB) introduced a "Captains’ Card" on Thursday, granting former national team leaders lifetime access to all board events and comprehensive medical benefits. BCB ad-hoc committee president Tamim Iqbal distributed the cards during a ceremony at a Dhaka hotel Tamim, who received his own card from former captain Shafiqul Haq Heera, said the initiative was... Details

Tamim-led BCB awards major pay rise to domestic cricketers

UNB — Fri, 10 Apr 2026 14:31:45 +0600

Bangladesh's domestic cricketers, particularly the women, have received a significant financial boost as the newly formed BCB ad-hoc committee announced its first major decision on Thursday. The move comes after new board chief Tamim Iqbal was reportedly shocked to learn about the current pay structure for female players. Until recently, women in the domestic circuit were earning a match fee... Details

BCB reschedules Bangladesh-New Zealand series

UNB — Thu, 09 Apr 2026 20:18:43 +0600

The Bangladesh Cricket Board (BCB) has advanced the match timings for the upcoming home series against New Zealand and the Sri Lanka women’s team as part of a national effort to conserve fuel and electricity. Under the revised schedule announced on Thursday, the One Day International (ODI) matches will begin at 11 a.m. local time, instead of the previously scheduled 3 p.m. The Twenty20... Details

BCB Board dissolution ‘constitutional coup’: Aminul

UNB — Wed, 08 Apr 2026 12:23:07 +0600

Ousted Bangladesh Cricket Board (BCB) President Aminul Islam has categorically rejected the government’s decision to dissolve his elected committee, branding the move a "constitutional coup" and urgently appealing to the International Cricket Council (ICC) to intervene against “state interference”. In a strongly worded statement released hours after the National Sports Council (NSC) ousted his... Details

BCB board dissolved, Tamim appointed as interim head

UNB — Tue, 07 Apr 2026 18:18:10 +0600

The National Sports Council (NSC) dissolved the elected board of the Bangladesh Cricket Board (BCB) on Tuesday following an investigation that uncovered, according to the NSC, widespread fraud, coercion, and government interference during the last election. Former national captain Tamim Iqbal has been appointed to lead an 11-member ad-hoc committee to steer the organization. NSC Sports... Details

PM greets Bangladesh U-20 football team

BSS — Sat, 04 Apr 2026 09:28:56 +0600

Prime Minister Tarique Rahman has congratulated the Bangladesh U-20 football team for their victory over India in the SAFF U-20 Championship. Prime Minister’s Press Secretary Saleh Shibly said the premier extended his heartfelt congratulations to all players, coaches and officials of the Bangladesh U-20 football team over the historic victory in the SAFF U-20 Championship. “Driven... Details

PM urges players to focus on sports careers

UNB — Mon, 30 Mar 2026 16:22:05 +0600

Prime Minister Tarique Rahman on Monday urged professional players not to associate themselves with any political party or group, asking them instead to represent the country through their sporting excellence. “In your professional sporting careers, you should not belong to any political party or group; rather, represent the country through your sporting excellence,” he said while... Details

Six Bangladesh cricketers cleared for PSL

UNB — Tue, 24 Mar 2026 10:45:46 +0600

The Bangladesh Cricket Board (BCB) cleared six national team players to compete in the upcoming Pakistan Super League on Monday, issuing No Objection Certificates after the government concluded there were no visible security threats in the host country. The board said it consulted extensively with the Ministry of Youth and Sports, the Ministry of Foreign Affairs, and the Bangladesh mission in... Details

Bangladesh clinches ODI series with 11-run win vs Pakistan

UNB — Mon, 16 Mar 2026 09:53:26 +0600

Bangladesh secured a 11-run victory over Pakistan in the series-deciding third ODI on Sunday, claiming the three-match series 2-1 at the Sher-e-Bangla National Stadium. Defending a target of 291, Bangladesh dismissed Pakistan for 279 on the final ball of the innings, with spinner Rishad Hossain conceding just two runs and executing a stumping in a tense final over. "This is a massive series... Details

BCB announces ticket prices for Pakistan ODI series

UNB — Sat, 07 Mar 2026 10:28:08 +0600

The Bangladesh Cricket Board (BCB) on Friday released the ticket price list for the upcoming three-match ODI series against Pakistan, with prices starting at 200BDT. Tickets will be available exclusively through the board's official website -www.gobcbticket.com- The lowest price point is set at 200 BDT for the Eastern Gallery, while the highest price is 2,000 BDT for the Grand Stand. Other... Details

New Zealand knock hosts Sri Lanka out of T20 WC race

UNB — Thu, 26 Feb 2026 10:41:00 +0600

Co-host Sri Lanka were knocked out of the ICC Men's T20 World Cup on Wednesday after suffering a 61-run loss to New Zealand. A counterattacking seventh-wicket stand of 80 runs between captain Mitchell Santner and Cole McConchie rescued New Zealand from a difficult position and set up the decisive victory. After Sri Lanka captain Dasun Shanaka won the toss and opted to bowl, New Zealand were... Details

Brook’s maiden T20 century powers England into WC semifinals

UNB — Wed, 25 Feb 2026 10:06:11 +0600

Harry Brook struck his first Twenty20 international century as England edged Pakistan by two wickets on Tuesday, sealing a place in a record fifth successive T20 World Cup semifinal. Brook, who had endured a quiet tournament until then, was promoted from No. 5 to No. 3 following a suggestion from coach Brendon McCullum earlier in the day. He made the change count, powering England to 166 for 8... Details

Arsenal expose Spurs flaws in derby win

UNB — Mon, 23 Feb 2026 10:28:32 +0600

Arsenal showed superior quality and smart tactics to beat Tottenham Hotspur 4-1 in the north London derby on Sunday, taking full advantage of gaps in the home side’s system. Arsenal took control by attacking mainly down the right flank, where Bukayo Saka and Jurrien Timber caused constant trouble. Their movement and understanding stretched Tottenham’s defence and led to key... Details

How football is helping girls fight against forced marriage

Click Ittefaq Desk — Sun, 22 Feb 2026 14:41:25 +0600

One hot summer evening when Nisha Vaishnav was 14, she and her 18-year-old sister Munna were at football practice when they noticed five adult strangers taking photos of them. Nisha soon found out why they were there - the group were from the same family and included a couple looking for a wife for their son, BBC reports. Nisha's mother, who was also present, was keen to encourage the... Details

India crushes Pakistan by 61 runs as WC scenario heats up

UNB — Mon, 16 Feb 2026 11:46:38 +0600

India has stormed into the Super Eight stage of the 2026 T20 World Cup with a commanding 61-run victory over arch-rivals Pakistan at the R. Premadasa Stadium in Colombo. The emphatic win guarantees India the top spot in Group A with three consecutive victories, while leaving Pakistan facing a do-or-die scenario in their final group match. Despite the intense buildup, which saw black-market... Details

PCB mediates reconciliation between ICC, BCB

UNB — Tue, 10 Feb 2026 23:35:09 +0600

The International Cricket Council (ICC) has announced that the Bangladesh Cricket Board (BCB) will face no punitive measures for its decision to boycott the ongoing T20 World Cup. In a surprising gesture of reconciliation, the global governing body also revealed that Bangladesh will be awarded the hosting rights for a global tournament prior to the 2031 ODI World Cup. The decision was... Details

Ronaldo misses back-to-back games for Al-Nassr

UNB — Sat, 07 Feb 2026 12:05:49 +0600

Cristiano Ronaldo missed a second straight match for Al-Nassr as questions continue over his future at the Saudi club. Al-Nassr beat rivals Al-Ittihad 2-0 in the Saudi Pro League on Friday, scoring two late goals through former Liverpool star Sadio Mane and Angelo Gabriel. Ronaldo was not included in the squad for the match. During the game, some home supporters showed their backing for the... Details

Man City beat Newcastle to set up League Cup final clash with Arsenal

UNB — Thu, 05 Feb 2026 10:16:09 +0600

Manchester City booked their place in the English League Cup final with a comfortable 3-1 win over Newcastle United on Wednesday, sealing a 5-1 aggregate victory in the semifinals. The result sets up a blockbuster final against Arsenal, meaning the Premier League’s top two sides will face off at Wembley Stadium on March 22. The League Cup will be the first major trophy decided this... Details

Winter Olympics 2026: Key stats and insights in six charts

UNB — Wed, 04 Feb 2026 15:39:40 +0600

The 25th Winter Olympics is almost here, returning to Europe with a record 116 medal events, including three in the new sport of ski mountaineering. Here’s what you need to know about Milan-Cortina 2026. Britain eyes historic Winter Games Great Britain has never won more than five medals – or more than one gold – at a single Winter Olympics, but 2026 could change that. UK... Details

ICC warns PCB of legal and financial fallout

UNB — Wed, 04 Feb 2026 11:00:49 +0600

The International Cricket Council (ICC) has cautioned the Pakistan Cricket Board (PCB) that it could face legal action from the T20 World Cup’s official broadcasters, JioStar, over Pakistan’s decision to boycott its February 15 match against India, a PCB source said on Tuesday. Pakistan decided not to play the high-profile match in Colombo following instructions from its... Details

Pakistan confirms WC participation but to boycott India match

UNB — Sun, 01 Feb 2026 21:54:14 +0600

Pakistan has announced that although its national team will take part in the ICC Men’s T20 World Cup 2026, it will boycott the high-profile group-stage match against India, a decision expected to stir strong reactions in the cricketing world. The announcement puts an end to weeks of speculation regarding Pakistan's involvement in the tournament but deals a massive blow to the event's... Details

ICC rejects accreditation for Bangladeshi journos

UNB — Tue, 27 Jan 2026 10:53:17 +0600

The diplomatic fallout between the International Cricket Council (ICC) and Bangladesh has extended to the press box, with the global body denying accreditation to all Bangladeshi journalists for the upcoming T20 World Cup. The decision effectively creates a media blackout for Bangladesh at the tournament, barring reporters from covering matches in both host nations, India and Sri Lanka. A... Details

ICC replace Bangladesh with Scotland

Click Ittefaq Desk. — Sat, 24 Jan 2026 18:03:29 +0600

It is now official: Scotland have replaced Bangladesh in the ICC Men's T20 World Cup 2026, starting in India and Sri Lanka on February 7. It was inevitable after the International Cricket Council (ICC) gave the Bangladesh Cricket Board (BCB) a 24-hour deadline a couple of days back, and on Saturday (January 24) finally cracked the whip. It was only a matter of time before Bangladesh... Details

Tanzid’s record-making century powers Rajshahi to 174 in BPL final

UNB — Fri, 23 Jan 2026 21:26:24 +0600

A century from opener Tanzid Hasan has powered the Rajshahi Warriors to a big 174 for 4 in the Bangladesh Premier League (BPL) final, setting a daunting 175-run target for the Chattogram Royals. Tanzid’s 100 off 62 balls was the centerpiece of the innings at the Sher-e-Bangla National Stadium, marking only the third century in BPL final history. Asked to bat first by Chattogram captain... Details

Bangladesh cites security concerns, rules out World Cup in India

Thu, 22 Jan 2026 17:49:28 +0600

The Bangladesh government has officially confirmed that the national cricket team will not travel to India for the upcoming T20 World Cup, citing ‘genuine security risks' amidst a volatile regional political climate. The announcement made by the Sports Adviser, Asif Nazrul, on Thursday, effectively defies the ultimatum set by the International Cricket Council (ICC) just a day earlier.... Details

Ireland rejects group swap, Pakistan sides with BCB

UNB — Mon, 19 Jan 2026 14:18:14 +0600

The diplomatic crisis surrounding the ICC Men's T20 World Cup 2026 has escalated to a new level, with Pakistan media reporting that the country may review its own participation in the tournament if Bangladesh's security concerns regarding India remain unresolved. The move follows a formal request for support from the Bangladesh government, prompting Islamabad to warn that failing to address... Details

Late-night deal ends standoff: BPL resumes today

UNB — Fri, 16 Jan 2026 11:58:47 +0600

The Bangladesh Premier League (BPL) is set to resume on Friday after a successful late-night negotiation between the Bangladesh Cricket Board (BCB) and the players, ending the boycott that stalled the tournament on Thursday. The breakthrough was announced by BPL Governing Council Member Secretary Iftekhar Rahman and CWAB President Mohammad Mithun following a meeting at the BCB office in... Details

FIFA World Cup trophy arrives in Dhaka

UNB — Wed, 14 Jan 2026 14:36:03 +0600

The glittering FIFA World Cup trophy arrived in Dhaka on Wednesday morning as part of the FIFA World Cup Trophy Tour. The trophy, accompanied by Brazilian 2002 FIFA World Cup winner and FIFA ambassador Gilberto da Silva, landed at Hazrat Shahjalal International Airport around 10:00 am. Tabith Mohammed Awal, president of the Bangladesh Football Federation (BFF), received the trophy at the... Details

BCB bins ICC’s plea to reconsider India tour

UNB — Tue, 13 Jan 2026 16:37:52 +0600

The uncertainty surrounding Bangladesh’s participation in the upcoming T20 World Cup 2026 has deepened after a high-stakes video conference between the Bangladesh Cricket Board (BCB) and the International Cricket Council (ICC) ended without a breakthrough on Tuesday. Despite the global body’s request to reconsider the boycott, the BCB remained firm in its decision not to travel to... Details

ICC to BCB: Play in India or forfeit points

UNB — Wed, 07 Jan 2026 10:03:24 +0600

Cricket news site ESPNcricinfo has learned that in a virtual call on Tuesday, the International Cricket Council (ICC) told the Bangladesh Cricket Board (BCB) that it was rejecting the latter's request to play Bangladesh's T20 World Cup matches outside India due to security concerns. The ICC is understood to have told the BCB that Bangladesh will need to travel to India to play the... Details

Bangladesh govt orders suspension of IPL broadcasts

UNB — Mon, 05 Jan 2026 13:42:36 +0600

The Ministry of Information and Broadcasting on Monday ordered television channels to suspend the broadcast of the Indian Premier League (IPL) with immediate effect. The directive was given in an official letter to television channels on Monday. The decision follows the Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI) excluding Bangladesh star cricketer Mustafizur Rahman from the Kolkata Knight... Details

Bangladesh refuses to travel to India for World Cup next month

UNB — Sun, 04 Jan 2026 17:24:59 +0600

Bangladesh has officially decided not to travel to India for the upcoming T20 World Cup, escalating the sporting standoff between the two countries to an unprecedented level. Youth and Sports Adviser Asif Nazrul disclosed the major development on Sunday, calling the move as a necessary response to what he termed the ‘radical communal policy’ of the Indian cricket authorities. The... Details

Smooth end to Messi India tour after Kolkata chaos

Click Ittefaq Desk. — Mon, 15 Dec 2025 23:50:44 +0600

Football superstar Lionel Messi has wrapped up his three-day India tour in pollution-choked Delhi, after a chaotic opening in Kolkata. On Monday, thousands of fans gathered in a Delhi stadium to get a glimpse of the Argentina and Inter Miami forward, BBC reports. As Messi, accompanied by Inter Miami team-mates Luis Suárez and Rodrigo De Paul, strolled on the pitch - kicking balls into... Details

Why some players excluded from BPL auction

UNB — Sun, 30 Nov 2025 13:53:23 +0600

A group of nine local cricketers has been excluded from the Bangladesh Premier League’s (BPL) final auction list after a series of anti-corruption investigations flagged their involvement in suspected fixing activities in last season’s tournament. The exclusions follow an extensive probe led by the BCB’s three-member independent investigation committee, headed by former... Details

Bangladesh beat Ireland by 217 runs in Dhaka to sweep series

UNB — Sun, 23 Nov 2025 15:20:12 +0600

Bangladesh completed a big 217-run victory over Ireland in the Dhaka Test on Sunday, sealing the two-match series 2–0. Bangladesh closed the match defined by milestones, dominant batting, and a super spin attack led by Taijul Islam and Hasan Murad. Ireland, set an improbable 509 to win, were bowled out for 291 deep into the fifth afternoon. Bangladesh needed 59.3 overs on the final day... Details

ACC summons cricketer Shakib Al Hasan

UNB — Fri, 21 Nov 2025 11:44:31 +0600

The Anti-Corruption Commission (ACC) on Thursday summoned national cricketer and former Magura-1 lawmaker Shakib Al Hasan for interrogation in a case linked to alleged stock market manipulation and illicit asset movement. A letter issued from the ACC headquarters on Thursday asked Shakib to appear before investigators on November 26. ACC Director General Md Akhter Hossain told reporters that... Details

Morsalin’s goal ends Bangladesh’s 22-yr wait for a win over India

UNB — Tue, 18 Nov 2025 23:10:09 +0600

Sheikh Morsalin scripted a night to remember in Dhaka as Bangladesh defeated India 1–0 on Tuesday, ending a 22-year wait for a competitive victory over their regional rivals and securing their first win of the Asian Cup Qualifiers. The decider came early. In the 12th minute, Morsalin surged forward after releasing the ball to Rakib Hossain, then darted into the box to meet Rakib’s... Details

Teams which have qualified for the 2026 World Cup

UNB — Mon, 17 Nov 2025 10:28:28 +0600

A record 48 teams will take part in the 2026 World Cup, which will be jointly hosted by the United States, Mexico and Canada. On Sunday, Portugal and Norway became the latest sides to secure their spots. Portugal, playing without the suspended Cristiano Ronaldo, thrashed Armenia 9-1 to keep the 39-year-old on course to feature in a sixth World Cup — an all-time record if he appears.... Details

Bangladesh fight to stay alive as West Indies eye series win

UNB — Wed, 29 Oct 2025 13:27:36 +0600

Bangladesh aim to keep the T20I series alive today as they face West Indies in the second match at the Bir Shreshtho Matiur Rahman Stadium in Chattogram. Bangladesh lost the opening match at the same venue. West Indies, confident by their 16-run win in the opening game, trained in high spirits on Monday under the afternoon sun. The win was their first step toward ending a long run of... Details

Lionel Messi aims for World Cup 2026

UNB — Tue, 28 Oct 2025 12:27:19 +0600

Lionel Messi has said he hopes to participate in the 2026 FIFA World Cup in North America, while acknowledging that his age and physical condition will determine his role in defending Argentina’s 2022 title. The 38-year-old recently extended his contract with Major League Soccer (MLS) club Inter Miami until 2028, indicating he is not yet ready to retire. Speaking to NBC News, the... Details

Two Australian players molested in India

UNB — Sat, 25 Oct 2025 17:54:42 +0600

Two Australian cricketers were "approached and touched inappropriately" while in India for the Women's Cricket World Cup, Cricket Australia has confirmed. The incident took place on Thursday morning, the day after Australia’s victory over England, as the players were walking to a café in Indore. "We can confirm two members of the Australian Women's Team were approached and... Details

Bangladesh to bat first in the series opener vs West Indies

UNB — Sat, 18 Oct 2025 13:58:14 +0600

West Indies won the toss and asked Bangladesh to bat first in the first ODI of the three-match series in Dhaka on Saturday. Right before this series, Bangladesh suffered a thumping defeat to Afghanistan. However, before the 3-0 ODI series defeat to Afghans, Bangladesh beat them in the T20I series. With the West Indies series at home, Bangladesh will aim to rectify previous... Details

3 Afghan cricketers among 8 killed in Pakistani airstrike

UNB — Sat, 18 Oct 2025 11:10:30 +0600

At least three Afghan cricketers were among eight people killed in a Pakistani airstrike in Afghanistan’s eastern Paktika province near the border, the Afghanistan Cricket Board (ACB) said Friday. According to the ACB, the players — identified as Kabeer, Sibghatullah and Haroon — had travelled from Urgun to Sharana to participate in a friendly match. They were later targeted... Details

Over 1mn tickets sold for 2026 World Cup in North America

UNB — Fri, 17 Oct 2025 14:20:55 +0600

FIFA announced Thursday that more than one million tickets for the 2026 World Cup have already been sold, marking a strong start to sales for the first-ever edition jointly hosted by the United States, Canada, and Mexico. The highest demand came from fans in the host countries, followed by supporters from England, Germany, Brazil, Spain, Colombia, Argentina, and France, according to FIFA. Fans... Details

Trump threatens to move 2026 World Cup matches from Boston

UNB — Wed, 15 Oct 2025 17:49:45 +0600

President Donald Trump on Tuesday threatened to relocate World Cup matches set to be played next year in suburban Boston, after suggesting that parts of the city had been “taken over” by unrest. Foxborough, Massachusetts, home to the NFL's New England Patriots and about 30 miles from Boston, is set to stage matches as the U.S. cohosts the 2026 World Cup with Mexico and Canada.... Details

Afghanistan crush Bangladesh to seal ODI series in Abu Dhabi

UNB — Sun, 12 Oct 2025 11:02:21 +0600

Afghanistan crushed Bangladesh in all departments in the second ODI of the three-match contest and sealed the series. The hosts bounced back strongly after the 3-0 defeat in the T20I series just before the ODIs. They won the toss and opted to bat first, and posted a below-par total of 190 all out. They lost quick wickets, but Ibrahim Zadran was firm at one end of the wicket,... Details

BCB plans to launch a cricket program for madrasah students

UNB — Wed, 08 Oct 2025 14:42:18 +0600

Aminul Islam, the newly elected president of the Bangladesh Cricket Board (BCB), said they are planning to bring cricket to the hundreds of thousands of madrasa students. There was no such organised plan to do so in the past. If it takes shape, it will be a first in the board’s history and one of the earliest initiatives of the newly elected committee. Aminul revealed the plan on... Details

BCB finalises candidate list, several win posts uncontested

UNB — Wed, 01 Oct 2025 22:38:59 +0600

The Bangladesh Cricket Board (BCB) on Wednesday announced the final list of candidates for its October 6 election, with 34 names left in the race for 25 director posts. Sixteen candidates withdrew before the withdrawal deadline. Most of the withdrawals came from Category 2, which covers Dhaka’s clubs. Thirteen of the 30 candidates dropped out, many amid claims of government pressure.... Details

Tamim pulls out of BCB polls amid turbulence

Wed, 01 Oct 2025 12:52:46 +0600

Former Bangladesh captain Tamim Iqbal has withdrawn his nomination from Bangladesh Cricket Board (BCB) election, in a move that deepens the turmoil already surrounding the polls slated for October 6. Tamim appeared at the Sher-e-Bangla National Stadium in Mirpur around 10:15am on Wednesday and withdrew as today is the last day for candidates to pull out. Sources close to the process suggested... Details

FIFA World Cup 2026: Albiceleste home kit leaked online

UNB — Mon, 29 Sep 2025 10:32:34 +0600

The jersey that reigning World Cup champions Argentina will wear to defend their title in 2026 has surfaced online, featuring a modern, dynamic twist on the nation’s iconic design. The Adidas-designed home shirt is set for release in late 2025. The leak, courtesy of kit specialists Opaleak and OriolWarero, confirms that the kit will feature the traditional Albiceleste (the White and Sky... Details

Spin, not speed, could be factor in tonight Dubai final

UNB — Sun, 28 Sep 2025 13:01:44 +0600

Strip away the noise around an India–Pakistan final, and the cricketing question for tonight’s Asia Cup title match is simple, who will control the middle overs? For all the talk of Shaheen Shah Afridi’s swing up front and Abhishek Sharma’s blazing starts, the trophy may well rest on how India’s Kuldeep Yadav–Varun Chakravarthy axis matches up against... Details

FIFA 'plans' for 64-nation World Cup in 2030

UNB — Thu, 25 Sep 2025 23:35:13 +0600

A proposal to expand the FIFA World Cup to an unprecedented 64 teams for the 2030 centenary tournament is reportedly under consideration after top South American football executives met with FIFA on Tuesday. CONMEBOL pushes for maximum scale While next summer’s 2026 World Cup will already be the largest ever with 48 teams, the South American confederation, CONMEBOL, is pushing for an even... Details

Lionel Messi’s rookie card sells for record $1.5mn

UNB — Mon, 15 Sep 2025 23:56:15 +0600

A rookie card featuring Argentine football superstar Lionel Messi has been sold for a record-breaking $1.5 million in a private transaction, making it the most valuable soccer card ever sold. This new record surpasses the previous one held by a card of Brazilian legend Pele. According to Goldin Auctions, the card, a 2004-05 Panini Mega Cracks PSA 10, was sold through Fanatics Collect’s private... Details

Women’s World Cup opens on September 30

UNB — Mon, 08 Sep 2025 19:08:47 +0600

The Women’s Cricket World Cup kicks off on September 30, with matches in India and Sri Lanka and the final set for November 2. Eight teams are in. Australia, winners seven times, lead the pack. England have four titles. New Zealand’s lone triumph came in 2000. India, South Africa, Pakistan, Sri Lanka and Bangladesh are all still waiting for one. The format is straight forward. No... Details