Sports Bulletin Oct 31: Robin Uthappa Joins MI Coaching Staff, Glenn Phillips Opens Up on GT Influence

New Delhi, Oct 31: The Mumbai Indians have strengthened their coaching setup ahead of IPL 2027, bringing former India batter Robin Uthappa on board as their new batting coach. With Kieron Pollard leading the revamped coaching staff, the franchise has also made several key appointments as it looks to build for the upcoming season.

Meanwhile, New Zealand's Glenn Phillips has opened up about how his IPL stint with Gujarat Titans helped him develop consistency, following his match-winning century against India in the fourth T20I.

In hockey, India continued their dominant run at the Asian Champions Trophy, defeating Japan 4-1 to register their third consecutive victory and secure a place in the semi-finals.

Here is your daily sports wrap in the Sports Bulletin for October 31.

Robin Uthappa Joins Mumbai Indians as Batting Coach

Mumbai Indians have overhauled their coaching staff for IPL 2027 under head coach Kieron Pollard. Former players Robin Uthappa and Mitchell McClenaghan return to the franchise as batting coach and bowling coach, respectively. Additionally, T. Dilip joins as fielding coach after a successful stint with the Indian national team, while Dhawal Kulkarni takes over as development bowling coach. The new setup replaces outgoing coaches Lasith Malinga, Paras Mhambrey, and Carl Hopkinson.

Glenn Phillips Credits Stint With GT For Consistency

Following his match-winning, explosive 107 off 49 balls against India in the fourth T20I, New Zealand's Glenn Phillips credited his IPL experience with the Gujarat Titans for his stellar form. Although his playing time was limited, Phillips emphasized that access to elite coaching, world-class facilities, and rigorous environments significantly helped him sharpen his game. This preparation has paid dividends, making him the series' leading run-scorer and inspiring New Zealand to an 87-run victory.

Vinith Venkatesh's Late Equaliser Against NEUFC Rescues Point

Bengaluru FC secured a dramatic 1-1 draw against NorthEast United FC in Guwahati. NorthEast had taken a 15th-minute lead through Jithin MS and looked set to claim all three points. However, substitute Vinith Venkatesh broke home hearts by scoring a crucial equalizer in the 93rd minute, capitalizing on a pass from Sunil Chhetri after the goalkeeper spilled the ball, allowing Bengaluru to salvage a valuable point deep into stoppage time.

Manisha Clinches Gold at World Wrestling Championships

Manisha Bhanwala scripted history by becoming the first Indian woman to win a gold medal at the Senior World Wrestling Championships. Competing in the 59kg final in Astana, Kazakhstan, she staged a stunning comeback from a 0-6 deficit to defeat America's Abigail Elizabeth Nette 8-6. This milestone victory capped off a stellar campaign for the Indian women's team, which concluded the tournament with four medals: one gold, two silver, and one bronze.

Sindhu, Kharb and Lakshya Advance to Hylo Open Semis

PV Sindhu, Anmol Kharb, and Lakshya Sen advanced to the semi-finals at the Hylo Open 2026. PV Sindhu cruised past Denmark's Amalie Schulz 21-12, 21-10, while Anmol Kharb overcame compatriot Unnati Hooda 21-17, 18-21, 21-16 in a hard-fought battle. Their victories set up an exciting all-Indian women's singles semi-final clash, assuring India of a finalist. Meanwhile, Lakshya Sen secured his spot in the men's last four with a gritty comeback win over Finland's Kalle Koljonen.

India Beat Japan 4-1 For Third Consecutive ACT Win

India defeated Japan 4-1 at the Asian Champions Trophy in Jalandhar, securing their third consecutive win and a semi-final spot. Playing his 150th international match, Abhishek starred with two goals (11', 51'), while captain Harmanpreet Singh (47') and Vishnu Kant Singh (56') also scored. Shota Yamada briefly equalized for Japan via a penalty stroke. Sitting top of the standings with nine points, India will next face Malaysia on November 1.