New Delhi (India News Reporter): India’s sports scene is buzzing with excitement as cricket takes center stage amid a packed calendar of international tournaments and domestic achievements. From dominant performances in the ICC Women’s ODI World Cup to strategic squad announcements for upcoming tours, the nation is witnessing a blend of emerging talents and veteran comebacks. Beyond cricket, athletes in athletics, badminton, and hockey continue to shine on global platforms, underscoring India’s growing prowess in diverse disciplines.
Cricket: Women’s World Cup Triumphs and Leadership Transitions
The ICC Women’s ODI World Cup 2025, co-hosted by India and Sri Lanka, has been a highlight of the year, with the Indian women’s team extending their unbeaten streak against Pakistan to 12-0. In a thrilling Group stage encounter on October 5 at Colombo’s R. Premadasa Stadium, India crushed Pakistan by 88 runs, posting 247 before bundling out their rivals for 159. Key contributions from the batting lineup and disciplined bowling propelled India to the top of the points table, setting the stage for challenging matches against Australia and England.
Vice-captain Smriti Mandhana, the world’s top-ranked ODI batter, has been instrumental, scoring four centuries in 2025 alone and leading the run-scoring charts. Despite rain threats and off-field tensions, including a reported ‘no handshake’ policy, the focus remains on cricketing excellence, with former player Diana Edulji advising the team to prioritize fielding and running between wickets ahead of the knockout stages.
In men’s cricket, India secured a massive innings victory over West Indies in the first Test of their home series in Ahmedabad, boosting their position to third in the ICC World Test Championship standings with a 55.56% points percentage. Centuries from KL Rahul, Dhruv Jurel, and Ravindra Jadeja highlighted the dominance, while Mohammed Siraj’s four-wicket haul dismantled the opposition. The series decider in Delhi on October 10 promises more intensity.
A significant shift occurred with the announcement of squads for the upcoming ODI and T20I series against Australia starting October 19. Shubman Gill was named ODI captain, with Shreyas Iyer as vice-captain, marking a generational change as Rohit Sharma steps down from the role. Veterans Rohit and Virat Kohli return to the ODI squad, while Suryakumar Yadav leads the T20I side fresh off India’s Asia Cup triumph over Pakistan. Selectors emphasized building for the future, though reactions have been mixed, with some like Harbhajan Singh expressing surprise. The IPL 2025, which concluded in June after a suspension due to regional tensions, saw Royal Challengers Bengaluru claim their maiden title, adding to the domestic fervor.
Athletics and Other Disciplines: Medals and Milestones
India’s athletes have excelled internationally, particularly in athletics. At the Asian Athletics Championships 2025 in Gumi, South Korea, the country clinched 24 medals, including eight golds, finishing second overall. Gulveer Singh dominated the 5000m and 10000m events, while Parul Chaudhary set a national record in the 3000m steeplechase for silver. Mirabai Chanu added a silver in weightlifting at the World Championships in Norway.
In badminton, Indian shuttlers secured titles at the Al Ain Masters 2025 in Abu Dhabi, with Shriyanshi Valishetty winning women’s singles and the men’s doubles pair of Hariharan Amsakarunan and Arjun Madathil Ramachandran triumphing. The BWF World Junior Championships kicked off in Guwahati on October 6, with veterans like HS Prannoy and Lakshya Sen motivating the young squad.
Hockey enthusiasts celebrated India’s 4-1 victory over South Korea in the Asia Cup 2025 final, securing their fourth title. The men’s team, led by goals from Dilpreet Singh (brace) and others, showcased attacking prowess at the Rajgir Sports Complex. Football gained traction with Sanju Samson appointed as the Premier League’s brand ambassador in India, bridging cricket and soccer fandoms. Meanwhile, Lionel Messi’s confirmed GOAT Tour of India in December promises to ignite football passion across cities like Kolkata and Mumbai.
Looking Ahead: A Packed Calendar
With events like the FIH Pro League, India Open badminton, and National Games already showcasing depth, 2025 positions India as a sporting powerhouse. The World Para Athletics Championships and Junior Hockey World Cup later this year will further test the nation’s resolve. As Prime Minister Narendra Modi congratulated teams on recent wins, the emphasis on grassroots development and infrastructure continues to fuel ambitions for global dominance.
