Sports

Spain’s Coach De la Fuente Confronts Key Choices Before UEFA Nations League Quarterfinal Against Netherlands

Published

9 months ago

March 20, 2025

Spain’s national team coach, Luis de la Fuente, has multiple decisions to make before the first leg of the UEFA Nations League quarter-final on Thursday.

In Rotterdam, Spain will face the Netherlands, with the return match scheduled for Sunday in Valencia. One of De la Fuente’s key choices is who will take the position in goal, as Unai Simon has returned from wrist surgery he underwent following last summer’s European Championship, according to Xinhua.

—

At 27 years old and with 46 appearances for Spain, Simon has always been the first choice when fit. However, Arsenal’s David Raya performed admirably in Simon’s absence during the autumn season. Simon hasn’t fully regained his best form, having made a few crucial errors while playing for Athletic Club Bilbao in recent months.

—

While the goalkeeping situation appears to be an area of strength, De la Fuente faces a more pressing challenge in central defense due to injuries to Dani Vivian, Aymeric Laporte, and Inigo Martinez, which have left Spain lacking in experience.

Robin le Normand is expected to secure a starting position, and the coach must choose a partner for him from Barcelona’s Pau Cubarsi, Real Madrid’s Raul Asencio, or young Bournemouth defender Dean Huijsen.

In midfield, Martin Zubimendi, Mikel Merino, and Pedri are likely to take the field, with Fabian Ruiz also in contention. In the attacking lineup, there are fewer uncertainties, as Lamine Yamal and Nico Williams are set to provide speed on the wings, with Alvaro Morata spearheading the attack.

Ferran Torres was unable to train on Wednesday before the team departed for the Netherlands, but he is expected to be fit enough to occupy a spot on the substitutes’ bench on Thursday.

—

Sports

Historic Test Debut in Guwahati as South Africa Reach 247/6 on Day 1

Published

2 weeks ago

November 23, 2025

Namma Kudla

On the first day of the second Test between India and South Africa at Barsapara Stadium, South Africa made a strong start, reaching 247 for 6 at stumps.The venue, Barsapara Cricket Stadium, hosted its very first Test match in history — making the day special for Guwahati and cricket in Assam.

South African skipper Temba Bavuma won the toss and chose to bat first.Their openers, Aiden Markram (38) and Ryan Rickelton (35), gave a solid start with a partnership of 82 runs.Later, Tristan Stubbs added 49 before getting out, while Bavuma made 41.

India fought back well thanks to a strong performance by spinner Kuldeep Yadav. He picked up 3 wickets and gave away only 48 runs in 17 overs.Ravindra Jadeja also chipped in with an important wicket, dismissing Bavuma. In the final over before stumps, Mohammed Siraj struck, getting Tony de Zorzi out.At the end of play, Senuran Muthusamy was unbeaten on 25, and Kyle Verreynne was 1 not out.

The light became a concern late in the day. As visibility dropped, play was stopped, and light issues forced the umpires to call it a day early.Overall, India ended Day 1 with a degree of satisfaction. The bowling attack showed discipline, especially through their spinners, and they managed to check the South African momentum.

Sports

India A Post 297/4 as Vaibhav Suryavanshi Smashes 144 Off 42 Balls

Published

4 weeks ago

November 14, 2025

Namma Kudla

India A began their Asia Cup Rising Stars 2025 campaign with a huge total against the UAE in Doha. Captain Jitesh Sharma won the toss and chose to bat first. Vaibhav Suryavanshi then produced a stunning innings. He scored 144 runs from just 42 balls. His knock included 11 fours and 15 sixes.

Suryavanshi reached his fifty in 17 balls. He completed his century in only 32 balls. He added 163 runs for the second wicket with Naman Dhir, who made 34. Jitesh Sharma also played a quick innings and scored a fast fifty.

India A finished at 297 for 4 in 20 overs. The team now holds a strong position in the match.

Sports

Sri Lankan Players Express Security Fears in Pakistan, Board Urges Them to Stay

Published

4 weeks ago

November 13, 2025

Namma Kudla

Some Sri Lankan cricketers in Pakistan have asked to return home after a bomb blast in Islamabad killed 12 people on Wednesday. The team is currently playing a three-match ODI series in Rawalpindi, which is close to Islamabad.

Sri Lanka Cricket (SLC) said in a statement that it had spoken to the players and assured them of their safety. The board is working with the Pakistan Cricket Board (PCB) and local authorities to ensure full security.

SLC has directed all players and staff to continue the tour. It warned that if anyone still chooses to return, replacements will be sent and a review will be held later.

Pakistan and Sri Lanka are also set to play a T20I tri-series with Zimbabwe from November 17 to 29 in Rawalpindi and Lahore. PCB chief and Pakistan’s Interior Minister Mohsin Naqvi is overseeing the security arrangements for all three teams.