Sports Bulletin of January 9: From Jasprit Bumrah Injury Getting Treated Under New Zealand Surgeon to Neymar Announcing His Last World Cup

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From Jasprit Bumrah's injury getting treated under the New Zealand surgeon Dr. Rowan Schouten before the Champions Trophy 2025 to Neymar announcing 2026 to be his last World Cup, many things have unfolded in the sports world.

Jasprit Bumrah, Neymar, Yuzvendra Chahal, and FC Barcelona are dominating the proceedings on a busy Thursday (January 9) in the World of Sports. Here are the ten unmissable stories of the day -

1. Jasprit Bumrah Getting Treated Under New Zealand Surgeon's Supervision Before Champions Trophy 2025

Jasprit Bumrah is consulting New Zealand-based surgeon Dr. Rowan Schouten for his recurring back issues ahead of the ICC Champions Trophy 2025. The BCCI medical team is closely monitoring his rehabilitation. Reports suggest Bumrah might play only if pain-free and could potentially miss the group stages, aiming for fitness during the knockout rounds. "He's in constant touch with experts," sources revealed. Bumrah's availability is crucial for India's campaign.

2. Coach MP Singh Says Virat Kohli and Rohit Sharma Need to Get Back With Their First Coaches

Coach MP Singh believes Virat Kohli and Rohit Sharma should reconnect with their first coaches to refine their techniques, especially for Test cricket. Highlighting their immense talent, Singh emphasized, "Suggestions to quit Test cricket are nonsense; they're still good." Singh previously guided MS Dhoni in 2015, helping him adapt his grip for better performance. He advocates small technical adjustments over drastic changes, stressing the importance of mentorship.

3. Mohammed Shami to play India vs England series

Mohammed Shami is set to return for India's white-ball series against England, beginning January 22, after recovering from a heel injury sustained in 2023. His performance will be crucial for securing a spot in the Champions Trophy 2025 squad. The BCCI noted, "Shami's rhythm is intact," and selectors will closely monitor his progress. This series marks a key opportunity for the veteran pacer.

4. Sunil Gavaskar picks his new captain for India in place of Rohit Sharma

Sunil Gavaskar has suggested Jasprit Bumrah as India's potential captain to succeed Rohit Sharma. Gavaskar highlighted Bumrah's "natural air of leadership" and calm approach, praising his ability to guide teammates effectively. Bumrah's impactful Test captaincy during the Border-Gavaskar Trophy impressed Gavaskar, who believes Bumrah's composed leadership and exceptional performances make him a strong candidate.

5. Neymar Says 2026 FIFA World Cup His Last

Neymar has announced that the 2026 FIFA World Cup will be his final appearance on football's grandest stage. In an interview with CNN, he stated, "I know this will be my last World Cup, my last shot, my last chance, and I will do everything I can to play in it." Despite Brazil's current fifth-place standing in the South American qualifiers, Neymar expressed confidence, saying, "I have a lot of faith in the team, in the players who are emerging, who are young."

6. Australia Squad For Test Series vs Sri Lanka

Australia has announced a 16-member squad for the upcoming two-Test series against Sri Lanka, with Steve Smith appointed as interim captain in Pat Cummins' absence due to paternity leave and an ankle issue. The squad features uncapped all-rounder Cooper Connolly, while Mitchell Marsh and Glenn Maxwell have been omitted. Selectors have also recalled batter Nathan McSweeney, aiming to balance experience with emerging talent for the subcontinent conditions. The series begins on January 29 in Galle.

7. Pat Cummins Participation in Champions Trophy 2025 Uncertain

Australia's captain Pat Cummins' participation in the 2025 Champions Trophy is uncertain due to an ankle injury sustained during the Border-Gavaskar Trophy. He is awaiting scan results for further assessment. Chief selector George Bailey stated, "Pat has a sore ankle and will undergo scans soon." If Cummins is unavailable, Mitchell Marsh or Steve Smith may lead the squad.

8. Yuzvendra Chahal left out of Haryana squad for Vijay Hazare Trophy

Yuzvendra Chahal has been omitted from Haryana's Vijay Hazare Trophy squad, with officials citing a strategic move to groom younger players like Parth Vats. Amidst this, rumors about Chahal's personal life, including a potential divorce from Dhanashree Verma, have gained traction. Chahal and Dhanashree have refrained from public comments, though Dhanashree criticized online trolling, stating, "The truth stands tall without the need for justification."

9. Dani Olmo Registration Gets Green Signal

Dani Olmo and Pau Víctor have received provisional approval from Spain's National Sports Council (CSD) to play for Barcelona, despite earlier registration issues due to financial constraints. This temporary measure allows their participation until a final decision is reached. Even though they missed the Super Cup semi-final against Athletic Bilbao, they may be available for future matches.

10. Barcelona Progresses to Spanish Supercup Final

Barcelona advanced to the Spanish Super Cup final with a 2-0 victory over Athletic Bilbao. Gavi opened the scoring in the 17th minute, and Lamine Yamal secured the win with a goal early in the second half. Despite the absence of Dani Olmo and Pau Victor.

They were temporarily cleared to play but missed the match, Barcelona dominated the game. Coach Hansi Flick expressed satisfaction with the team's performance, stating, "We wanted to show we are a team and we win also for them." Barcelona will face the winner of the Real Madrid vs. Mallorca match in the final.