Sports Bulletin January 31: Sanju Samson eyes Form, Australia suffer Pat Cummins Blow

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Across the World of Sports, here are the top stories for Saturday, January 31. Check out the latest Sports Bulletin of the day, which encompasses from Indian team to the WPL 2026.

Pat Cummins out of Australia Squad

Australian fast bowler Pat Cummins has been ruled out of the 2026 T20 World Cup due to a persistent back injury that has troubled him for over six months, limiting him to just one Ashes Test this summer. Left-arm pacer Ben Dwarshuis replaces him in the final 15-man squad, captained by Mitchell Marsh. Another change sees Matthew Renshaw included instead of Matthew Short. The tournament begins next month in India and Sri Lanka.

Sanju Samson eyes form in Trivandrum

Sanju Samson, Kerala's star batter, is set to play his first international match at home in Thiruvananthapuram during the fifth T20I against New Zealand. Fans have put up massive cutouts outside the Greenfield International Stadium in support. After a lean patch (just 40 runs in four innings this series), all eyes are on him to regain rhythm and confidence ahead of the 2026 T20 World Cup, boosted by passionate local backing.

ICC release T20 WC official song

The ICC has unveiled "Feel the Thrill" as the official song for the Men's T20 World Cup 2026, composed, produced, and sung by Indian music star Anirudh Ravichander. The high-energy track captures the tournament's excitement and intensity. Released recently, it is now available on all major audio platforms, building anticipation for the event co-hosted by India and Sri Lanka starting February 7.

Bengal qualify for Ranji Quarterfinals

Bengal have qualified for the Ranji Trophy quarterfinals after securing a comprehensive 188-run victory over Haryana in their Group C match at Lahli. Led by Shahbaz Ahmed's five-wicket haul and strong contributions from Akash Deep, Bengal bowled out Haryana cheaply twice. Already table-toppers with this win, they stay on track for a strong finish in the 2025-26 season.

Djokovic vs Alcaraz in Australian Open Final

Novak Djokovic and Carlos Alcaraz will clash in the 2026 Australian Open men's singles final in Melbourne on February 1. Djokovic seeks a record 11th title and 25th major, while Alcaraz aims for his first Australian Open crown and career Grand Slam completion. Djokovic leads their head-to-head 5-4, following grueling semi-final wins-Djokovic over Sinner and Alcaraz in a comeback against Zverev.

Kerala Blasters sign Oumar Bah

Kerala Blasters FC have signed Guinean defender Oumar Bah ahead of the 2025-26 Indian Super League season. The 31-year-old, standing at 190 cm, brings aerial strength, positional sense, and experience from European clubs, mainly in Spain. He strengthens the backline with composure and organization as the team prepares for the campaign.

RCB Women advance to WPL Final

Royal Challengers Bengaluru Women have advanced to the 2026 Women's Premier League final as the first qualifiers after an eight-wicket victory over UP Warriorz. Grace Harris smashed 75 off 37 balls, supported by Smriti Mandhana's unbeaten 54, chasing 144 in just 13.1 overs. Nadine de Klerk took 4/22 earlier. Captain Mandhana credited the "one win away" mantra for focus.