Sports News Bulletin July 19: England Shine, Mbappe Makes History, Sindhu Eyes Glory

The FIFA World Cup takes centre stage once again as England secured third place in a 10-goal thriller against France, while the build-up to Sunday's final between Argentina and Spain continues with weather disruptions and fresh debate over Argentina's political celebrations. Elsewhere, PV Sindhu reached her first final in more than two years, and Major League Cricket crowned a first-time champion.

1. England edge France 6-4 in unforgettable World Cup third-place thriller

England produced their best World Cup finish since 1966 after defeating France 6-4 in one of the highest-scoring matches in tournament history. Bukayo Saka starred with a hat-trick, while Declan Rice, Ezri Konsa and substitute Jude Bellingham were also on target as Thomas Tuchel's side raced into a 4-0 half-time lead before surviving a spirited French comeback.

Kylian Mbappe inspired France after the break with two goals as Les Bleus threatened an unlikely recovery, but Saka completed his hat-trick from the penalty spot before Bellingham sealed victory with a stunning solo effort. The result handed England the bronze medal and marked Didier Deschamps' final match in charge of France after 14 years.

2. Mbappe overtakes Messi as World Cup's all-time leading scorer

Despite France's defeat, Kylian Mbappe etched his name into World Cup history by scoring his 21st and 22nd tournament goals to surpass Lionel Messi as the competition's all-time leading scorer.

The France captain admitted he would happily swap the record for a place in the World Cup final, but acknowledged the milestone would become an important part of his legacy. Messi, meanwhile, has the opportunity to reclaim the record when Argentina face Spain in Sunday's final.

3. Spain's final training cancelled by severe thunderstorms

Spain's preparations for the FIFA World Cup final were disrupted after severe thunderstorms forced the cancellation of their final outdoor training session in New Jersey.

The Spanish squad was restricted to indoor work under US lightning safety protocols, while Argentina were eventually able to train after a 45-minute delay. Weather conditions have become an additional challenge ahead of Sunday's showdown between the defending champions and the European champions.

4. ICC's new ODI World Cup format draws criticism from players and Associate nations

The ICC's revamped format for the 2027 ODI World Cup has come under heavy criticism from the World Cricketers' Association and several Associate nations.

The WCA questioned the lack of consultation before the changes were announced, while Scotland, the Netherlands and Namibia argued that the new structure reduces opportunities for emerging teams to compete against the world's best. Several leading international players have also backed calls for greater transparency in the decision-making process.

5. PV Sindhu reaches first final in over two years at Japan Open

PV Sindhu advanced to her first final in more than two years after China's Chen Yufei retired injured during their Japan Open semi-final.

Sindhu had already taken the opening game 21-19 and led 15-10 in the second before Chen was forced to withdraw with a hamstring injury. The Indian will now face Japan's Akane Yamaguchi in Sunday's final as she chases her first title since the 2024 Syed Modi International.

6. Morne Morkel backs Rohit Sharma despite poor run of form

India bowling coach Morne Morkel has dismissed concerns surrounding Rohit Sharma's form ahead of the ODI series decider against England at Lord's.

Morkel said Rohit's experience and calmness remain invaluable to India's batting line-up, adding that the veteran opener has repeatedly shown throughout his career that he can overcome difficult patches. India will, however, be without all-rounder Washington Sundar, who has been ruled out with a hamstring injury.

7. Los Angeles Knight Riders clinch maiden Major League Cricket title

Los Angeles Knight Riders won their first Major League Cricket championship after edging Washington Freedom by one run in a dramatic final that went down to the last ball.

Sunil Narine starred with three early wickets before Shadley van Schalkwyk defended 14 runs in the final over with a brilliant display of death bowling. Washington needed two runs off the final delivery to force a Super Over but a run-out secured the title for the Knight Riders.