Liam Dawson is set to make his long-awaited return to England’s Test cricket team in the fourth Test against India, replacing Shoaib Bashir. This marks Dawson’s first appearance in the format since July 2017, representing a remarkable eight-year gap in red-ball cricket. The England team currently leads the five-match series 2-1.

Dawson’s Experience Enhances England’s Lineup
At 34 years old, Dawson brings a wealth of experience to the squad. His inclusion not only bolsters England’s spin department with his left-arm orthodox bowling but also adds significant depth to the lower order. Dawson holds an impressive first-class record, featuring 18 centuries and a batting average of 35.29, which is notably higher than that of current opener Zak Crawley.

Dawson’s previous stint with the national team included being part of England’s victorious 2019 World Cup squad. After a series of sporadic appearances in white-ball cricket in 2022, his international career seemed uncertain. Earlier this summer, Dawson had expressed a realistic outlook on his chances of playing for England again. Yet, his unexpected recall for the T20I series against the West Indies in May reignited hopes of a Test comeback.

An Unexpected Selection
In a surprising twist, Dawson has leapfrogged fellow left-arm spinner Jack Leach, who has been a consistent member of the England squad and holds a central contract. The selectors opted for Dawson, citing his extensive experience and recent form as key factors in their decision.

Teammate Harry Brook praised Dawson’s character, stating, “He brings experience and guile. He’s very skilful and a great bloke. He was nervous before his T20 comeback, and I’m sure he’ll be nervous again this week, but his experience and skills will guide him.”

England’s Lineup for the Fourth Test
The England team for the fourth Test against India includes: Zak Crawley, Ben Duckett, Ollie Pope, Joe Root, Harry Brook, Ben Stokes (captain), Jamie Smith (wicketkeeper), Liam Dawson, Chris Woakes, Brydon Carse, and Jofra Archer.

Current Series Status
England currently leads the five-match Test series against India 2-1. The home team secured victories in the first Test at Leeds and the third Test at Lord’s, while India managed to bounce back with a win in the second match at Edgbaston.

As Dawson prepares to re-enter the Test arena, all eyes will be on how he contributes to the team’s efforts in this crucial match against India.

Italy’s women’s football team marked a remarkable milestone by securing a spot in the semifinals of Euro 2025 after a thrilling 2-1 victory over Norway on March 27, 2024. The late match hero was veteran striker Cristiana Girelli, who scored both goals, propelling her team to their first semifinal appearance since 1997. The victory sparked jubilant celebrations among players and fans alike, highlighting the significance of Girelli’s contributions to the sport.

With over 120 caps and 60 goals in her impressive 12-year international career, Girelli’s performance was a fitting narrative for a team that has seen substantial growth. Italy’s women’s football only became fully professional three years ago, having previously operated under amateur status since 1981, where players could earn a maximum of €30,000 annually. The national team has participated in every Euro tournament except for the 1995 edition, marking a total of 11 appearances.

Girelli expressed her emotions following the quarterfinal victory: “It’s a dream that becomes reality. Since we arrived in Switzerland, but also when we started the camp, I felt something special. I saw in the eyes of my teammates something I can’t explain in words.” Under the guidance of manager Andrea Soncin, who took the helm in September 2023, the team’s unity and connection have played a crucial role in their success thus far.

The camaraderie within the squad is palpable. Forward Michela Cambiaghi described the team as “down-to-earth girls brought together by a shared dream” and emphasized their ability to support each other even in tense moments. Italy has fully embraced the tournament atmosphere, celebrating each victory together and creating cherished memories.

After their group stage performance, which included a disappointing 3-1 loss to Spain, the team’s resilience shone through as they relied on other results to advance. Following the match, players gathered around defender Elisabetta Oliviero to listen to the critical outcome from the Portugal versus Belgium match. The moment culminated in jubilant celebrations, with players singing along to Natasha Bedingfield‘s song “Unwritten,” capturing the essence of their journey.

The celebratory spirit has been a consistent theme throughout Italy’s campaign, with music serving as a backdrop to their triumphs. After defeating Denmark 3-0 in the Nations League, midfielder Arianna Caruso suggested bringing a Bluetooth speaker to games, a move that has become central to their celebrations. The atmosphere within the team, characterized by positivity and joy, has been a defining feature of their performance.

Soncin, a former striker with experience in lower-league Italian football, has made significant strides in rebuilding the squad after a series of disappointing tournaments. His meticulous approach to training, which includes intensive gym sessions and focused analyses of opponents, reflects his commitment to the team’s growth. The medical staff, dressed in Armani suits and football boots, further illustrates the professionalism Soncin has instilled within the team.

As Italy prepares to face defending champions England in the semifinals, their recent success has positioned them as underdogs with nothing to lose. While England has a strong historical advantage, having won their last encounter 5-1 in a friendly match in February 2024, Italy’s determination and confidence cannot be underestimated.

The team’s meticulous preparation extends to watching the Spain versus Switzerland quarterfinal in anticipation of potential future matchups. With a mindset focused on enjoying every moment, Italy is ready to embrace the challenge ahead. As the iconic celebration song suggests, “the rest is still unwritten,” and Italy stands poised to write a new chapter in their football history against England in Geneva.

South Africa emerged victorious against Zimbabwe in a Tri-Nation T20 match, chasing down a target of 145 runs with a decisive seven-wicket win. The match took place on March 15, 2024, highlighting standout performances from several players, including a remarkable innings from Rubin Hermann.

Zimbabwe batted first, setting a challenging total of 144 runs for the loss of six wickets. Key contributions came from Brian Bennett, who scored an impressive 61 runs off just 43 balls, including seven boundaries and three sixes. Fellow opener Wesley Madhevere managed 13 runs before departing early. The middle order struggled, with wicketkeeper Clive Madanda and captain Sikandar Raza scoring eight and nine runs, respectively.

Despite the early setbacks, Zimbabwe’s Ryan Burl provided some late resistance with an unbeaten 36 runs from 31 balls, featuring two boundaries and a six. In contrast, Tashinga Musekiwa and Tony Munyonga both failed to make an impact, scoring zero and one run, respectively.

On the bowling front, South Africa’s Corbin Bosch was particularly effective, taking two wickets for just 16 runs in his four overs. Lungi Ngidi, Nandre Burger, and Nqaba Peter each claimed one wicket, while George Linde and Andile Simelane went wicketless.

Chasing Zimbabwe’s total, South Africa faced early challenges as openers Lhuan-dre Pretorius and Reeza Hendricks struggled, contributing only four and six runs, respectively. However, Rassie van der Dussen stepped up, delivering a captain’s knock with an unbeaten 52 runs off 41 balls, including six boundaries.

Hermann’s explosive innings of 63 runs from just 36 deliveries proved crucial, featuring three boundaries and four sixes. His partnership with van der Dussen helped stabilize the innings after the early loss of wickets. Dewald Brevis also joined in, finishing not out with 13 runs off seven balls, including a boundary and a six, as South Africa reached their target in just 17.2 overs.

With this victory, South Africa bolstered their position in the ongoing Tri-Nation T20 series. The upcoming match against table-toppers New Zealand, scheduled for March 18, 2024, promises to be a thrilling encounter, as both teams currently hold four points, although South Africa has played one more game.

This match underscores the competitive spirit of the series and highlights the talents of emerging players like Hermann, who made a significant impact in this encounter.

In an exciting sporting crossover event, the Indian cricket team met with players from the iconic football club Manchester United on July 20, 2025. During this unique gathering, held at Manchester United’s training ground in Carrington, both teams exchanged jerseys and engaged in light-hearted drills, highlighting the spirit of camaraderie between two of the world’s most popular sports.

The BCCI (Board of Control for Cricket in India) showcased the meeting on social media under the caption “United in Manchester,” featuring several images of players like Shubman Gill and Rishabh Pant sharing moments with their football counterparts. One memorable image captured Indian fast bowler Mohammed Siraj bowling to star defender Harry Maguire, exemplifying the playful integration of cricket and football.

Symbolic Exchange and Collaborative Spirit

The event was made possible through a collaboration with Adidas, the leading sportswear manufacturer. It began with a warm welcome from senior Manchester United officials and club legends, setting a positive tone for the interactions that followed. Notably, coaches Gautam Gambhir of the Indian cricket team and Ruben Amorim of Manchester United were seen together, a moment that quickly gained traction on social media.

As the teams engaged in various activities, including football drills and informal conversations, several players took the opportunity to connect personally. Pictures featured Gill posing with football star Bruno Fernandes, Siraj conversing with Amad Diallo, and Jasprit Bumrah sharing a laugh with Mason Mount and Maguire. A joint photo of both teams and their support staff captured the essence of the collaboration.

The day also included a special segment where coaches exchanged insights on leadership and team dynamics, emphasizing the similarities in managing elite athletes across different sports. According to Adidas, this initiative marked a significant moment in sports, reinforcing the brand’s commitment to not only providing premium gear but also fostering connections among teams from diverse sporting backgrounds.

Upcoming Challenges for Team India

The Indian cricket team’s visit to Manchester coincides with their preparation for the fourth Test against England, scheduled for July 23, 2025. Currently, England leads the five-match series 2-1, having secured victories at Leeds and London, while India claimed a win at Birmingham. The team is focused on regaining momentum as they face this crucial challenge.

This meeting between the Indian cricket team and Manchester United exemplifies the growing trend of collaboration among different sports, showcasing the unifying power of athletics and the shared values of teamwork, respect, and passion. As both teams continue their respective journeys, this unique interaction will undoubtedly be remembered as a highlight in their sporting narratives.