Sports Bulletin on June 19: Lionel Messi's Kolkata Plans to Divya Deshmukh beating No.1 Chess Star

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In the world of sports, a number of incidents have taken place in the last few hours. Here are all the latest updates from the game.

India are preparing for their first Test against England while Lionel Messi's arrival to India is also confirmed. Check Out the Top 10 Stories.

1. Rohit Sharma, Virat Kohli Absence Will Feel Strange, Says KL Rahul

Indian cricketer KL Rahul has expressed that the absence of senior players Rohit Sharma and Virat Kohli from the upcoming five-Test series against England, starting Friday at Headingley, will feel strange. With Sharma and Kohli opting out, Rahul emphasized the need for experienced players like himself, Jasprit Bumrah, and Rishabh Pant to guide the younger squad. The series marks a new era under captain Shubman Gill.

2. Lionel Messi Set to Arrive in Kolkata, to be Felicitated at Eden Gardens

Inter Miami star Lionel Messi is scheduled to visit Kolkata in mid-December 2025 for a grand felicitation at Eden Gardens, accommodating 70,000 spectators. The event will include a 30-minute exhibition match featuring cricketers, footballers, and celebrities. Messi may also visit Delhi and Mumbai, with plans for a GOAT Concert, highlighting his global appeal ahead of the FIFA Club World Cup.

3. Hampshire Confirm Tilak Varma Signing

Hampshire has officially signed Indian batter Tilak Varma for a four-match County Championship stint, starting June 22 against Essex. The 22-year-old, who averages 50.16 in first-class cricket, will play until August 1, as announced by ESPN. Acquired by GMR Group last year, Hampshire aims to bolster their seventh-placed Division One side with Varma's experience from 18 first-class matches and IPL performances.

4. Real Madrid Start with a Draw in Club World Cup 2025

Real Madrid opened their 2025 FIFA Club World Cup campaign with a 1-1 draw against Al Hilal on June 18 at Hard Rock Stadium, per ESPN's update. The match, part of Group H, saw both teams share points in the 32-team tournament held across the U.S. from June 14 to July 13. Real Madrid will next face RB Salzburg on June 26, aiming to secure a knockout spot.

5. IPL 2025 Final Becomes Most Watched T20 Game Ever

The IPL 2025 final has set a new record as the most-watched T20 match ever, surpassing previous viewership figures, according to JioStar data which was released. The thrilling conclusion drew millions of viewers globally, highlighting the league's growing popularity. Details of the winning team and final score are yet to be fully disclosed, but the milestone underscores cricket's expanding digital reach. The IPL 2025 reached 1 billion people and total of 840 billion minutes were watched.

6. Mukesh Kumar Makes Cryptic Post After India Squad Snub

Indian pacer Mukesh Kumar posted a cryptic message on social media following his exclusion from the India squad for the England Test series, starting June 20. The 31-year-old, who last played a Test in 2024, hinted at disappointment but did not elaborate. The squad, led by Shubman Gill, features a youthful lineup, marking a transition phase for the team. He wrote 'Karma is unforgiving', which may indicate frustration after not being selected in the India squad even as backup.

7. Lionel Messi Looks Fit to Start for Inter Miami, Says Coach

Inter Miami coach Javier Mascherano confirmed that Lionel Messi is fit and likely to start in their upcoming FIFA Club World Cup match against FC Porto on June 19, per ESPN's report. The 37-year-old, who has played 73% of MLS minutes this season, is being managed carefully ahead of the tournament, which began on June 14 and runs until July 13 across the U.S. Messi was caught holding his leg during a training session but may play against Porto.

8. Divya Deshmukh Beats World No.1 Hou Yifan

Indian chess prodigy Divya Deshmukh stunned World No.1 Hou Yifan with a victory in the ongoing Women's Grand Prix, as reported by FIDE. The 18-year-old's triumph in the classical format showcased her rising talent, boosting her rating and marking a significant upset. The event continues to highlight India's growing dominance in global chess, with Deshmukh emerging as a key contender.

9. AIFF Officially Removes ISL from Season Calendar

The All India Football Federation (AIFF) has officially removed the Indian Super League (ISL) from the 2025-26 season calendar, announced. The decision, aimed at restructuring domestic football, follows after conflict with FSDL. The AIFF may plan to introduce alternative competitions, though details remain pending, marking a significant shift in Indian football's competitive landscape.

10. Mumbai City Welcome Back Jorge Pereyra Diaz

Mumbai City FC has re-signed Argentine striker Jorge Pereyra Diaz on a one-year deal, confirmed by the club. The 32-year-old, who scored 14 goals in the 2022-23 ISL season, returns after a stint with Bengaluru FC, strengthening the squad for the upcoming season. His experience is expected to bolster Mumbai City's attack as they aim for a successful campaign.