Sports Bulletin on June 29: From Arshdeep Singh's Test Debut Hopes to India-Pakistan in Same FIH Pool

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In the World of sports, this weekend has been a fascinating one so far. In cricket, the Bengal Pro T20 League has concluded with a blockbuster finale, while the Indian cricket team prepares for the 2nd Test against England.

Here are the best stories across sports for June 29, curated for you. From the Club World Cup 2025 to India and Pakistan in the same pool of FIH Junior World Cup.

1. Arshdeep Singh Likely to Replace Jasprit Bumrah for 2nd Test

Arshdeep Singh is poised to replace Jasprit Bumrah in India's lineup for the second Test against England at Edgbaston, starting July 2, 2025, due to Bumrah's workload management. The 26-year-old left-arm pacer, yet to debut in Test cricket, trained extensively with coach Morne Morkel. Bumrah's absence, after a five-wicket haul in Leeds, puts pressure on Arshdeep to step up as India aims to level the series.

2. Smriti Mandhana Becomes First Indian Woman to Score Centuries Across All Formats

Smriti Mandhana etched her name in history as the first Indian woman to score centuries in Tests, ODIs, and T20Is. On June 28, 2025, she smashed a 112-run T20I century off 62 balls against England at Trent Bridge, leading India to a 210/5 total. Her elegant yet powerful innings, neutralizing spinners like Sophie Ecclestone, marked a milestone no other Indian woman batter had achieved.

3. India Women Secure Historic Win Over England

India Women clinched a historic 97-run victory over England in the first T20I at Trent Bridge on June 28, 2025. Smriti Mandhana's maiden T20I century (112 off 62) powered India to 210/5, their second-highest T20I total. Debutant Shree Charani's four wickets dismantled England, who suffered their heaviest T20 defeat by runs. Harleen Deol's quick 43 complemented Mandhana's dominance, setting a strong tone for the five-match series.

4. Howrah Warriors Clinch Bengal Pro T20 League Title

The Howrah Warriors won the 2nd season Bengal Pro T20 League title, defeating the Murshidabad Kings by 9 runs in the final on June 28, 2025, at Kolkata's Eden Gardens. Batting first, the Amir Gani-led Warriors posted 150/9, led by a strong top-order performance. Their bowlers, with disciplined spells, restricted the Kings to 141/8. The victory marked a significant moment for Bengal's domestic T20 competition, showcasing emerging talent.

5. Rishabh Pant's Doctor Gives Verdict on Somersault Celebration

Rishabh Pant's surgeon warned against his somersault celebration, labeling it "unnecessary" and risky, citing potential "risk of death" due to his 2022 accident injuries. The concern arose after Pant's acrobatic displays during the first Test against England in Leeds. The wicketkeeper-batter, a key performer with a century, was advised to avoid such actions to prevent aggravating past injuries, raising concerns ahead of the second Test.

6. Chelsea, Palmeiras Advance to Quarterfinals

Chelsea and Palmeiras progressed to the FIFA Club World Cup 2025 quarterfinals. Chelsea secured a 3-1 victory over Flamengo, with strong performances from their attacking line. Palmeiras also advanced, defeating their group-stage opponents convincingly. Both teams showcased tactical discipline and flair, setting up intriguing quarterfinal matchups. Chelsea's coach emphasized their commitment to the tournament, dismissing vacation talk, while Palmeiras leaned on their robust squad depth.

7. England Win U21 Euro Title

England U21 clinched the European Championship title with a thrilling 3-2 extra-time victory over Germany U21 on June 28, 2025. Under coach Lee Carsley, the young Lions showcased resilience, overcoming a late German equalizer to secure their third consecutive U21 Euro crown. Key contributions from the attacking unit and a solid defensive display in extra time sealed the triumph, reinforcing England's dominance in youth football.

8. Paul Pogba Returns to Football After 2 Years, Joins AS Monaco

Paul Pogba made his football comeback, signing with AS Monaco, after a two-year doping ban. The 2018 World Cup winner, previously with Juventus, aims to relaunch his career in Ligue 1. Monaco announced the signing as a major coup, with Pogba's experience and versatility expected to bolster their midfield. His return marks a fresh start following a challenging period.

9. Asia Cup Likely to Start in Mid-September

The Asia Cup 2025 is set to commence in mid-September, with optimism growing for an India-Pakistan face-off despite political tensions. The tournament, hosted in a yet-to-be-confirmed format, will feature top Asian teams, including India, Pakistan, and Sri Lanka. Discussions are ongoing to finalize venues and schedules, with the event expected to draw massive viewership, especially for the high-stakes India-Pakistan clash.

10. India, Pakistan Kept Together in FIH Hockey Men's Junior World Cup

India and Pakistan have been drawn in the same group for the FIH Hockey Men's Junior World Cup 2025, ensuring a high-voltage encounter. The tournament, set to take place later in 2025, will see the arch-rivals compete alongside other teams in their pool. India are in Pool B with Pakistan, while Chile and Switzerland are also in their group. The tournament, comprised of 32 nations, will be played in Chennai and Madurai later this year.

11. Arshdeep Singh Must Make Debut in Test Series, Reckons Coach Jaswant Rai to MyKhel

Coach Jaswant Rai urged Arshdeep Singh's Test debut in the India-England series, emphasizing his swing and control. Speaking to MyKhel, Rai highlighted Arshdeep's readiness for Test cricket, who may replace Jasprit Bumrah, as the star pacer is set to miss the second Test due to workload management. The 26-year-old's 66 wickets in 21 first-class matches and T20I experience make him a strong candidate to bolster India's pace attack at Edgbaston.