Sports Bulletin of January 12: From IPL 2025 Start Date Changed to Mohun Bagan Winning Another Kolkata Derby

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From IPL 2025 start date changed from March 14th to a delayed date of March 23rd to Mohun Bagan winning another Kolkata Derby, this time in ISL 2024-25, many things have unfolded in the sports world.

The Indian cricket team, IPL 2025, and Kolkata derby are dominating the proceedings on a busy Sunday (January 12) in the World of Sports. Here are the ten unmissable stories of the day -

1. IPL 2025 Starting Date Changed

The 2025 IPL will now start on March 23, per a BCCI announcement during its Mumbai meeting. Vice-President Rajeev Shukla said the nine-day delay, from the earlier March 14 date, allows better preparation for teams and logistical coordination. "IPL is going to start from 23rd March," Shukla confirmed. The change offers players recovery time after international fixtures and avoids calendar clashes, ensuring a smoother tournament for all stakeholders.

2. India Announces 15-man Squad for England T20I Series

India announced a 15-member squad for the upcoming T20I series against England, set to begin on January 22. Notably, Mohammed Shami makes his return after 1.5 years, while Rishabh Pant and Jasprit Bumrah are excluded. Bumrah's absence is attributed to an ongoing back injury, while Pant's last T20I appearance was during the Sri Lanka tour.

India Squad for England T20I Series: Suryakumar Yadav (C), Sanju Samson (wk), Dhruv Jurel (wk), Abhishek Sharma, Tilak Varma, Hardik Pandya, Rinku Singh, Nitish Kumar Reddy, Axar Patel (vc), Harshit Rana, Arshdeep Singh, Mohammad Shami, Varun Chakaravarthy, Ravi Bishnoi, Washington Sundar

3. Rohit Sharma Tells BCCI Leadership His Intentions on Leaving Indian Captaincy in a Few Months

Rohit Sharma informed the BCCI of his intention to step down as India's captain after the ICC Champions Trophy, following recent team performance reviews. He emphasized the need for a smooth transition to a new leader. Reports suggest Jasprit Bumrah as a possible successor, though concerns over his fitness persist. Rohit expressed, "I am committed to leading until the Champions Trophy," while urging the BCCI to focus on long-term captaincy solutions.

4. Jasprit Bumrah Could Miss Entire Champions Trophy 2025

Jasprit Bumrah's participation in the 2025 ICC Champions Trophy is uncertain due to a back injury, with reports suggesting he might miss the entire tournament. The BCCI is monitoring his recovery at their Bengaluru facility. While some sources are optimistic he could return for the knockout stages, there's no definitive timeline yet. "Things don't look good," a BCCI official reportedly said, reflecting the team's concern over Bumrah's fitness.

5. Jemimah Rodrigues Maiden Ton

Jemimah Rodrigues celebrated her maiden ODI century against Ireland, reaching the milestone while also surpassing 1000 career ODI runs. Her knock displayed finesse and determination, anchoring India's innings in a crucial match. Reflecting on her achievement, Jemimah said, "This is a moment I've dreamed of and worked hard for." The century not only solidifies her place as a key player but also marks a significant milestone in her promising career.

6. Mohun Bagan Gets Narrow 1-0 Win Against East Bengal in Kolkata Derby

Mohun Bagan edged past East Bengal 1-0 in a thrilling Kolkata Derby clash, courtesy of Jamie Maclaren's record-setting goal in the second minute, the fastest in ISL derby history. The win solidified the Mariners' top spot with an eight-point lead over Bengaluru FC. East Bengal's efforts, including Cleiton Silva's close chances, fell short. Coach Jose Molina praised his team, stating, "This was a testament to our resilience."

7. Bangladesh Announces Squad For Champions Trophy 2025

Bangladesh announced their Champions Trophy 2025 squad, led by Najmul Hossain Shanto, who returns as captain after injury. Shakib Al Hasan was excluded due to a suspension, while Litton Das and Tamim Iqbal are also absent. Notable inclusions are Mushfiqur Rahim, Mahmudullah, and debutant Parvez Hossai Emon. Shanto emphasized the team's balance and readiness.

Bangladesh Squad for CT 2025: Nazmul Hossain Shanto (captain), Soumya Sarkar, Tanzid Hasan, Tawhid Hridoy, Mushfiqur Rahim, MD Mahmud Ullah, Jaker Ali Anik, Mehidy Hasan Miraz, Rishad Hossain, Taskin Ahmed, Mustafizur Rahman, Parvez Hossai Emon, Nasum Ahmed, Tanzim Hasan Sakib, Nahid Rana

8. Pakistan Announces Test Squad vs West Indies

Pakistan announced its 15-member Test squad for the upcoming series against West Indies, featuring seven changes from the previous South Africa tour. Key inclusions are spinners Sajid Khan and Abrar Ahmed. Shan Masood will continue as captain. The series, part of the World Test Championship, starts January 17 in Multan. "The changes ensure a balanced squad for the home conditions," the team stated.

Pakistan Squad for West India Test Series: Shan Masood (captain), Saud Shakeel, Abrar Ahmed, Babar Azam, Imam-ul-Haq, Kamran Ghulam, Kashif Ali, Khurram Shahzad, Mohammad Ali, Mohammad Huraira, Mohammad Rizwan (wicketkeeper), Noman Ali, Rohail Nazir (wicketkeeper), Sajid Khan and Salman Ali Agha

9. New Zealand Announces Squad For Champions Trophy 2025

New Zealand announced their squad for the 2025 Champions Trophy, led by Mitchell Santner in his first major ICC tournament as captain. Senior players Kane Williamson and Tom Latham add experience, while new pacers Will O'Rourke, Ben Sears, and Nathan Smith debut. Santner said, "The squad is in good shape, and we're ready for the challenge." The team will face Pakistan, Bangladesh, and India in Group A.

New Zealand Squad for CT 2025: Mitchell Santner (captain), Michael Bracewell, Mark Chapman, Devon Conway, Lockie Ferguson, Matt Henry, Tom Latham (wicketkeeper), Daryl Mitchell, Will O'Rourke, Glenn Phillips, Rachin Ravindra, Ben Sears, Nathan Smith, Kane Williamson, Will Young

10. Rain in Melbourne Sees Major Delays on Day 1 of the Australian Open

Heavy rain in Melbourne on the opening day of the Australian Open caused significant disruptions, leading to the cancellation of a quarter of the singles matches. Fans without tickets to the covered showcourts scrambled for shelter, quickly snapping up ponchos and umbrellas from the gift shop, which sold out by the early afternoon. Many spectators, frustrated by the lack of communication and updates about the weather, left the venue without seeing any games.

Despite the weather, some fans, like Sydney teenager Tony Mai, remained enthusiastic about their first experience at the Grand Slam event. Tennis Australia stated that updates were available via screens, the tournament app, and social media. Play on the main showcourts continued under closed roofs, with top players like Aryna Sabalenka and Alexander Zverev advancing in straight sets. The tournament organizers are prepared with an extra day to accommodate the schedule.