Sports Bulletin of February 10: From Rohit Sharma Closing on Sachin Tendulkar Record to Real Madrid, Barcelona Broadcast in India Suspended

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From Rohit Sharma closing in on Sachin Tendulkar and Virat Kohli's Record in ODI to La Liga matches including Real Madrid and Barcelona broadcasts in India being suspended, many things have unfolded in the sports world.

Rohit Sharma, Virat Kohli, Matthews Breetzke, and La Liga are dominating the proceedings on a busy Monday (February 10) in the World of Sports. Here are the ten unmissable stories of the day -

1. Rohit Sharma now has the third-highest ODI runs in run-chases behind Sachin Tendulkar and Virat Kohli

Rohit Sharma has now scored 6026 runs in ODI run-chases, surpassing all but Sachin Tendulkar (8720) and Virat Kohli (7857). He also has 16 centuries in such situations, just one behind Tendulkar. Additionally, Rohit became the second-highest six-hitter in ODIs, overtaking Chris Gayle. Reflecting on his performance, Rohit said, "I really broke it down into pieces."

2. Meet Matthew Breetzke, the South African Who Broke World Record on ODI Debut

Matthew Breetzke made history on his ODI debut for South Africa, breaking a world record with his performance. The young batter's explosive innings caught attention ahead of the IPL 2025 auction. Reflecting on his achievement, he said, "It was a surreal moment." His knock showcased his potential as a future star for South Africa.

3. Kevin Pietersen reveals why bowling against Shubman Gill is intimidating

Kevin Pietersen praised Shubman Gill's technical adjustments, making him more intimidating for bowlers. He highlighted Gill's improved setup against fast bowlers and his ability to play the back-foot punch, forcing bowlers to rethink their lengths. Pietersen said, "A bowler can't just hover short of a length against him anymore." He also believes Gill is ready to convert starts into big centuries.

4. Odisha Government Seeks OCA's Clarification Over Barabati Floodlight Failure

The Odisha government has sought an explanation from the Odisha Cricket Association (OCA) after a floodlight failure at Barabati Stadium caused a 30-minute delay during the India vs England ODI. Sports Minister Suryabanshi Suraj stated, "An explanation will be sought from the OCA." OCA secretary Sanjay Behera cited generator issues as the cause. Congress MLA Sofia Firdous called for an impartial probe.

5. India vs Pakistan - Harbhajan Singh picks clear favourite with less than a fortnight for big match

Harbhajan Singh has picked India as the clear favorite for the India vs Pakistan clash in the ICC Champions Trophy 2025. He cited India's familiarity with Dubai's conditions as a key advantage, stating, "India will have a better understanding of the pitch." He also highlighted the importance of bowlers stepping up in Jasprit Bumrah's absence.

6. PCB gives latest update on Haris Rauf injury ahead of Champions Trophy 2025

The PCB has confirmed that Haris Rauf's injury is not serious, diagnosing it as a muscular sprain in his lower chest wall. He is expected to recover in time for the ICC Champions Trophy 2025, starting on February 19. However, as a precaution, he will miss Pakistan's match against South Africa on February 12.

7. Jacob Bethell ruled out for England for Champions Trophy 2025 squad, Tom Banton named as replacement

Jacob Bethell has been ruled out of England's ICC Champions Trophy 2025 squad due to a hamstring injury. The ECB has named former KKR batter Tom Banton as his replacement for the third ODI against India. Bethell, who was picked by RCB in IPL 2025, was expected to showcase his talent in the tournament.

8. ECB gives official verdict amid call for Boycotting Afghanistan match

The ECB has confirmed that England will play against Afghanistan in the Champions Trophy 2025 despite calls for a boycott over women's rights issues. ECB chairman Richard Thompson stated, "A coordinated international response would be more effective than unilateral action." The board also donated £100,000 to support Afghan women cricketers.

9. GXR lose La Liga broadcasting rights, no more Real Madrid, Barcelona matches streaming in India

GXR has lost La Liga broadcasting rights in India due to a financial dispute with La Liga, leading to the suspension of all La Liga matches including Real Madrid and Barcelona matches. The company initially cited "technical issues," but reports suggest non-payment as the real cause. GXR's Ligue 1 broadcasts have also been affected, though Serie A remains available.

10. Vinicius Jr decides to reject Real Madrid contract offer

Vinicius Jr. has rejected Real Madrid's latest contract renewal offer despite having two years left on his deal. Reasons include lucrative offers from Saudi Arabian clubs, ongoing racial abuse in Spain, and his desire for new challenges. Reports also suggest that the current salary offer did not meet his expectations. However, negotiations are still open for a potential agreement.