Sports Bulletin on June 28: From CSK pacer joining Essex to former India spinner blaming Rishabh Pant

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On June 28, global sports action spanned multiple disciplines-from high-stakes cricket Tests and T20s, to major transfer moves in football.

These stories underscore a day marked by pivotal sporting narratives setting the stage for what's next. From the world of cricket and football, check out the top stories.

1. Harmanpreet Kaur misses 1st T20I against England Women

On June 28, Harmanpreet Kaur sat out the first T20I against England at Trent Bridge owing to a head injury sustained during a warm-up match against an ECB Select XI. As a precaution, BCCI rested her while she remains under medical supervision. Vice-captain Smriti Mandhana led the side and oversaw the toss, with India adjusted their lineup accordingly.

2. Prabath Jayasuriya spins Sri Lanka to innings win over Bangladesh in Colombo

In Colombo, Sri Lanka sealed a dominant innings-and-78 victory over Bangladesh in the second Test on June 28. Left-arm spinner Prabath Jayasuriya claimed a devastating five-wicket haul-their 12th in Tests-to dismantle Bangladesh's lower order in under 30 minutes, securing the series 1-0. His surprise debut performance once again highlighted his impact with the ball.

3. 'Too many captains...' - Ex‑India spinner blames KL Rahul, Rishabh Pant for chaos at Headingley

Following India's loss at Headingley, former spinner Murali Karthik criticized the team's on-field command structure. On June 28, he argued that senior players KL Rahul and Rishabh Pant were overly vocal in their roles, undermining stand-in captain Shubman Gill. Karthik suggested this "too many captains" scenario sowed confusion and diluted tactical clarity, calling for defined leadership roles in high-pressure Tests.

4. Harpreet Brar spotted in India practice session

Punjab spinner Harpreet Brar was seen bowling to Indian batters in a net session ahead of the second Test vs England. Though not part of the official squad, he assisted as a net bowler-simulating left-arm spin under England's prep conditions. His presence fueled speculation about a backup spinner role, though India ultimately stuck with Jadeja, Kuldeep, and Sundar.

5. South Africa's Test series vs Zimbabwe not part of 2025-27 WTC cycle

On June 28, ICC confirmed the upcoming Test series between South Africa and Zimbabwe will not count in the 2025‑27 World Test Championship points table. This decision disappointed some cricket fans, as they hoped every bilateral Test would carry WTC weight. Instead, the series serves as a preparatory opportunity ahead of the next cycle.

6. Khaleel Ahmed joins Essex

Chennai Super Kings pacer Khaleel Ahmed signed a deal on June 28 to join Essex County Cricket Club for the remainder of the 2025 English season. The 27-year-old left-arm fast bowler will feature across the County Championship and One-Day Cup, starting with a match against Yorkshire on June 29. He's the fifth Indian player to join a county side this summer.

7. Sunderland agree club‑record £30m deal for Strasbourg midfielder Habib Diarra

On June 28, Sunderland secured a club-record transfer by agreeing to sign midfielder Habib Diarra from Strasbourg for approximately £30 million. The 20-year-old has garnered acclaim in Ligue 1, and the sizeable fee reflects Sunderland's ambition in the Premier League. The move underscores the club's intent to strengthen their central midfield with young, dynamic talent.

8. FC Barcelona not likely to let Bayern Munich get Nico Williams

Barcelona remain intent on triggering Nico Williams's €58 million release clause, dampening Bayern Munich's interest. With Raphinha reportedly supporting the move, Barca's new manager Hansi Flick plans to shift Raphinha centrally to accommodate Williams on the wing. Financial Fair Play and competition may delay this transfer, but Barca appear to be leading the race.

9. Cristiano Ronaldo signs new deal with Al Nassr

On June 28, Cristiano Ronaldo formally signed a contract extension with Saudi Arabian club Al Nassr. While specific terms were not disclosed, the deal reportedly secures his presence in Riyadh until at least 2027. The extension cements Ronaldo's central role in the club's ambitions to grow football's profile across the Middle East.

10. Arsenal closing in on Christian Nørgaard

Arsenal are reportedly finalizing a move to sign Danish midfielder Christian Nørgaard, with talks advancing on June 28. The 27-year-old currently plays for Brentford and is viewed as a solid defensive midfield option to bolster depth in Mikel Arteta's squad. The deal is expected to conclude soon, pending personal terms and medical clearance.