Global Pulse

分类： sports

  • Women’s cricket great Alyssa Healy ends her ODI career with 158 for Australia against India

    Women’s cricket great Alyssa Healy ends her ODI career with 158 for Australia against India

    HOBART, Australia — In a spectacular farewell to her One Day International career, Australian cricket icon Alyssa Healy delivered a breathtaking performance at Hobart’s stadium on Sunday. The 35-year-old wicketkeeper-batter smashed an extraordinary 158 runs against India, marking one of the highest individual scores in women’s ODI history.

    Healy’s magnificent innings featured 27 boundaries and two sixes from just 98 deliveries, securing her eighth ODI century and cementing her status among cricket’s elite. Her dominant performance propelled Australia to a formidable total of 409-7 in their 50 overs, ultimately leading to a comprehensive 185-run victory as India was dismissed for 224.

    The match concluded Australia’s 3-0 series sweep against India, providing a fitting send-off for one of women’s cricket’s most celebrated athletes. Healy now joins an exclusive group of just six female players who have achieved multiple 150-plus scores in ODI cricket.

    This historic knock adds to Healy’s impressive legacy, which includes her record-setting 148 not out against Sri Lanka in 2019—the highest T20 International innings at the time. While retiring from ODIs and limited-overs cricket, Healy will play one final test match against India in Perth starting Friday, where she’ll have one last opportunity to secure a test century.

    In a remarkable coincidence, Healy’s highest test score of 99 matches exactly that of her husband, Mitchell Starc, the celebrated fast-bowling star of Australia’s men’s cricket team.

  • Kerr scores first international goal in 28 months

    Kerr scores first international goal in 28 months

    In a moment of sporting triumph overshadowed by geopolitical tensions, Australian football star Sam Kerr marked her international return with a decisive goal against the Philippines. The Chelsea striker’s 14th-minute header secured a 1-0 victory for Australia in their Asian Cup opener at Perth Stadium, marking her first international goal since November 2023 following a lengthy recovery from an anterior cruciate ligament injury.

    The 32-year-old forward, who only returned to competitive play in September after nearly two years sidelined, recorded her 70th international goal in what became the match’s solitary highlight. Despite Australia’s numerous missed opportunities, Kerr’s clinical finish proved sufficient for the victory.

    “I’m gradually rediscovering my confidence,” Kerr stated post-match. “While I feel like my normal self, I need more involvement in scoring positions. This performance represents a positive beginning, and our squad maintains strong belief, though the Asian Cup clearly features numerous quality opponents requiring our focused approach.”

    The tournament proceeds against a complex backdrop of Middle East conflicts that have already impacted regional football scheduling. The Asian Football Confederation announced postponement of West Region matches originally scheduled for March 2-3, 2026, citing “the developing situation in the Middle East” following recent military exchanges between the United States, Israel and Iran.

    Australia prepares to face Iran next Thursday at Gold Coast Stadium, with the AFC confirming close coordination with Iranian team officials regarding safety protocols. The confederation emphasized its “resolute commitment to ensuring the safety and security of all players, teams, officials, and fans” while monitoring the evolving geopolitical landscape.

    The Women’s Football Weekly podcast returns with hosts Ben Haines, Ellen White and Jen Beattie offering weekly analysis every Tuesday on BBC Sounds, featuring coverage of the Women’s Super League and international competitions.

  • South Africa beat Zimbabwe to set up NZ semi-final

    South Africa beat Zimbabwe to set up NZ semi-final

    In a decisive Men’s T20 World Cup Super 8s clash in Delhi, South Africa secured a five-wicket victory over Zimbabwe to claim the top position in Group 1. Despite an uncharacteristically shaky batting performance, the Proteas successfully chased Zimbabwe’s total of 153-7 with 13 balls remaining, finishing at 154-5.

    The match saw Zimbabwe’s captain Sikandar Raza deliver an exceptional all-round performance, scoring a defiant 73 runs from just 43 deliveries and claiming three crucial wickets for 29 runs. His efforts with the bat propelled Zimbabwe to a competitive total, supported by Clive Madande’s unbeaten 26-run contribution that included several late boundaries.

    South Africa’s chase encountered early turbulence as Raza’s bowling dismantled the top order, removing openers Quinton de Kock and Aiden Markram for minimal scores. The situation demanded intervention from 22-year-old Dewald Brevis, whose explosive 42 runs from merely 18 balls provided critical momentum. Brevis partnered with David Miller (22 off 16) to establish a 50-run fourth-wicket stand that fundamentally shifted the match’s trajectory.

    Though both batsmen fell within a narrow five-delivery window, George Linde (30 not out) and Tristan Stubbs (21 not out) demonstrated composure under pressure to guide South Africa to victory. The bowling department saw teenage sensation Kwena Maphaka emerge as the most effective bowler, recording impressive figures of 2-21.

    This victory marks South Africa’s seventh consecutive win in the tournament, solidifying their semifinal matchup against New Zealand while simultaneously confirming England’s position against either India or West Indies in the final four. Cricket analysts have noted South Africa’s remarkable consistency and the strategic advantage of testing backup players during this match, highlighting the team’s comprehensive preparation and growing confidence throughout the competition.

  • Fog forces cancelation of men’s World Cup super-G in Germany. Race will be rescheduled in France

    Fog forces cancelation of men’s World Cup super-G in Germany. Race will be rescheduled in France

    GARMISCH-PARTENKIRCHEN, Germany — Adverse weather conditions led to the abandonment of the first men’s World Cup super-G event following the Milan Cortina Winter Olympics this Sunday. Dense fog enveloping the upper section of the renowned Kandahar course severely compromised visibility, rendering competition unsafe despite repeated efforts by organizers.

    The International Ski & Snowboard Federation (FIS) announced the official cancellation after multiple delays and attempts to adjust the start gate position failed to mitigate the challenging atmospheric conditions. ‘Due to the present weather situation with limited visibility from the fog,’ the federation stated, the decision was made to prioritize athlete safety.

    In response to the cancellation, FIS men’s race director Markus Waldner confirmed via Austrian television that the event will be rescheduled for March 13th in Courchevel, France. This venue will host the final weekend of speed races preceding the World Cup Finals scheduled in Norway the subsequent week.

    The cancellation leaves the super-G season standings with Swiss skier Marco Odermatt maintaining a substantial advantage. Odermatt currently commands the discipline with 425 points, establishing a formidable 158-point lead over his closest competitor, Austria’s Vincent Kriechmayr, who trails with 267 points. Three super-G events remain in the season.

    The World Cup circuit now progresses to Kranjska Gora, Slovenia, where athletes will compete in technical events including a slalom and giant slalom next weekend.

  • Sam Kerr’s header helps Australia edge Philippines in the Women’s Asian Cup opener

    Sam Kerr’s header helps Australia edge Philippines in the Women’s Asian Cup opener

    PERTH, Australia — In a spectacular display of homecoming glory, Australian football sensation Sam Kerr marked her long-awaited return from injury with a decisive header that secured a 1-0 victory for the Matildas against Philippines in their Women’s Asian Cup opener on Sunday. The Chelsea striker’s 14th-minute goal, her 70th international score, electrified a record-breaking crowd of 44,379 fans—the largest attendance in tournament history.

    The match-winning sequence began with Clare Wheeler delivering a precise cross from the right flank, followed by Caitlin Foord’s headed assist across the goalmouth, setting up Kerr’s clinical finish from the edge of the box. This moment represented not just a tactical triumph but an emotional milestone for the 32-year-old captain, who had been sidelined with a knee injury since the 2023 World Cup.

    Despite Australia’s overwhelming dominance—controlling 85% possession, attempting 15 shots, and completing 674 passes compared to Philippines’ 118—the defensive resilience of goalkeeper Olivia McDaniel limited the scoring margin. The Matildas faced further frustration when Hayley Raso’s apparent second goal was disallowed following a VAR review for offside.

    The match also featured the welcome return of Mary Fowler, who entered as a 68th-minute substitute after her own injury recovery. Kerr acknowledged her ongoing progress post-match, stating: ‘I’m rediscovering my confidence gradually. While others must judge my performance, I feel like my normal self—though I need more touches around the box.’

    Australia, seeking their first continental title since 2010, approaches the tournament with renewed determination after previous final losses to Japan in 2014 and 2018. Kerr, now in her fifth Asian Cup campaign, emphasized the team’s belief while acknowledging the competitive landscape: ‘This was a solid beginning, but the Asian Cup features numerous quality teams.’

    In related tournament developments, Iran’s coaching staff declined to comment on geopolitical matters during their pre-match conference, instead focusing on their sporting objectives. Team captain Zahra Ghanbari emphasized their primary goal: qualifying for the 2025 Women’s World Cup in Brazil.

  • South Africa beats Zimbabwe to top Group 1 at T20 World Cup. India opts to field vs West Indies

    South Africa beats Zimbabwe to top Group 1 at T20 World Cup. India opts to field vs West Indies

    DELHI, India — South Africa maintained their flawless campaign at the 2026 T20 World Cup, securing a five-wicket triumph against Zimbabwe in their concluding Super 8 encounter. The victory cemented their position at the summit of Group 1 and propelled them into the semifinals without a single defeat.

    Stand-in all-rounder George Linde delivered a match-defining performance, proving instrumental in both departments. Linde, who was drafted into the lineup to provide rest for Keshav Maharaj, claimed figures of 1-22 from his three-over spell. Later, with the bat, his composed unbeaten 30 from 21 deliveries, batting at number seven, guided the Proteas across the finish line.

    Chasing a target of 154, South Africa’s innings faced early turbulence. Zimbabwe’s captain, Sikandar Raza, showcased his all-round prowess by dismantling the top order with his off-spin, dismissing key batsmen Aiden Markram (4) and Quinton de Kock (0) cheaply. A brilliant catch in the deep by Ryan Burl sent back Ryan Rickelton after a brisk 31.

    The chase was stabilized by a explosive 42 from just 18 balls by Dewald Brevis, which included four massive sixes. A critical 50-run partnership off 25 balls between Brevis and David Miller (22) seemed to shift momentum, before Zimbabwe struck back again. Raza captured his third wicket by removing Brevis, and Blessing Muzarabani dismissed Miller, leaving South Africa in a precarious position at 101-5.

    Ultimately, an unbroken 53-run stand between Tristan Stubbs (21*) and Linde navigated the team to 154-5 with 13 balls remaining, showcasing resilience under pressure.

    Earlier, after electing to bat, Zimbabwe posted 153-7, a total built almost single-handedly by a defiant captain’s knock from Sikandar Raza. His 73 off 43 balls, featuring five boundaries and three sixes, rescued his side from a shaky start of 28-2. He found brief support from Clive Madande, who remained not out on 26, ensuring Zimbabwe crossed the 150-mark. For South Africa, Corbin Bosch was the pick of the bowlers with 2-40.

    This result eliminates Zimbabwe from the tournament after three consecutive losses in the Super 8 stage, despite this being their first appearance in the second round of a T20 World Cup. Meanwhile, South Africa, the 2024 runners-up, advance confidently, having conquered the ‘group of death’ in the initial round and all challengers in the Super 8s.

    From Group 2, England and New Zealand have progressed to the semifinals, with Pakistan and co-hosts Sri Lanka being eliminated.

  • AFL 2026: Melbourne defender Steven May has retired effective immediately

    AFL 2026: Melbourne defender Steven May has retired effective immediately

    In a significant development for Australian Rules Football, Melbourne Demons premiership defender Steven May has announced his immediate retirement from the AFL following a series of off-field challenges. The decision concludes a distinguished 251-game career that spanned both the Gold Coast Suns and Melbourne Football Club.

    The 31-year-old Darwin native has been absent from team training for over a month, citing personal reasons during this period. His departure from the sport comes amid legal proceedings involving an assault charge and reported police attendance at his residence last month, though specific details remain undisclosed.

    May communicated his retirement decision via social media on Sunday evening, preempting a planned address to teammates scheduled for Monday. In his emotional statement, he expressed gratitude for realizing his childhood dream of playing AFL football while acknowledging the difficulty of his timing decision just before the new season.

    ‘It’s an incredibly tough decision to make on the eve of the season but I know it’s the right one for myself, my family and the team,’ May wrote on Instagram. He extended appreciation to both the Gold Coast Suns, where he began his career as an inaugural team member, and the Melbourne Football Club where he achieved the pinnacle success of a 2021 premiership.

    The veteran defender emphasized his desire to provide the club with ‘clean air and no distractions moving forward,’ expressing confidence in the team’s future prospects. His retirement creates an unexpected list vacancy for Melbourne, allowing the club to utilize the supplemental selection period before its closure.

    Melbourne had previously encouraged May to consider trade options at the conclusion of the 2023 season, though he had initially committed to fulfilling the final year of his contract prior to this development.

  • World Cup marks 100-day countdown amid political upheaval

    World Cup marks 100-day countdown amid political upheaval

    As the 100-day countdown commences for the largest FIFA World Cup in history, the monumental sporting event finds itself navigating a complex landscape of geopolitical tensions and operational hurdles. The 2026 tournament, uniquely co-hosted across the United States, Canada, and Mexico, will feature an unprecedented 48 national teams competing in 104 matches. The football extravaganza is scheduled to kick off at Mexico City’s iconic Estadio Azteca on June 11th, culminating in the championship final at New Jersey’s MetLife Stadium on July 19th.

    FIFA President Gianni Infantino projects record-breaking commercial success for the event, forecasting approximately $11 billion in revenue—significantly surpassing the $7 billion generated by the 2022 Qatar World Cup. With over 508 million ticket requests for just seven million available seats, demand has reached unprecedented levels. However, this commercial ambition has drawn criticism from fan organizations worldwide, including Football Supporters Europe, which has condemned FIFA’s pricing strategy as a ‘monumental betrayal’ of loyal supporters.

    Beyond the financial considerations, the tournament confronts substantial political complications. The Trump administration’s international policies—including trade disputes with co-hosts Canada and Mexico, alongside stringent immigration measures affecting qualified nations Iran, Haiti, Senegal, and Ivory Coast—have introduced uncertainty regarding fan accessibility. Although White House officials assure that visa restrictions won’t impede ticketed spectators, geopolitical friction persists.

    Recent U.S.-Israeli military actions against Iran have added diplomatic complexity, particularly as Iran’s national team is slated to play group matches in Los Angeles and Seattle. Simultaneously, Mexico faces security concerns following violent unrest in Guadalajara—a host city for four matches—after military operations targeted drug cartel leadership. Both Infantino and Mexican President Claudia Sheinbaum have publicly affirmed that safety protocols remain robust and games will proceed uninterrupted.

    On the competitive front, the expanded format guarantees that the top two teams from each of the twelve groups, plus eight third-place finishers, will advance to the knockout stage—a structure that minimizes early exits for traditional football powerhouses. The tournament promises compelling narratives, including Lionel Messi’s anticipated sixth and final World Cup appearance as he leads defending champion Argentina against formidable challengers like France, Spain, and an England squad seeking to end a six-decade championship drought. The event will also welcome debutante nations including Cape Verde, Curaçao, Jordan, and Uzbekistan, adding fresh intrigue to the global spectacle.

  • Kosgei wins Tokyo Marathon in record time

    Kosgei wins Tokyo Marathon in record time

    In a spectacular display of athletic prowess at the Tokyo Marathon, Kenyan long-distance runner Brigid Kosgei delivered a historic performance by obliterating the women’s course record. The 32-year-old Olympic silver medalist crossed the finish line with an astonishing time of 2:14:29, establishing a new benchmark for the prestigious event.

    Kosgei’s dominant victory saw her finish more than two minutes ahead of her closest competitor, Ethiopia’s Bertukan Welde, who secured second place with a time of 2:16:36. Another Ethiopian athlete, Hawi Feysa, completed the podium with a third-place finish of 2:17:39. The previous course record of 2:15:55, set by two-time champion Sutume Asefa Kebede in 2024, was convincingly surpassed by Kosgei’s remarkable achievement.

    In a post-race revelation, Kosgei announced her intention to represent Turkey at the 2028 Los Angeles Games, citing her desire to create opportunities for emerging Kenyan talent. “We have abundant athletic potential in Kenya,” Kosgei stated. “My transition to representing Turkey will hopefully inspire the next generation of Kenyan runners to join me in this new chapter.”

    The men’s competition provided equal drama as Ethiopia’s Tadese Takele successfully defended his title in one of the most thrilling finishes in marathon history. The 23-year-old champion clocked 2:03:37, matching the official time of Kenyan rival Geoffrey Toroitich, with another Kenyan athlete, Alexander Mutiso Munyao, finishing just one second behind in third place.

    Takele described his strategic approach to the nail-biting finale: “I anticipated the final stage would determine the outcome. At approximately 41 kilometers, I maintained patience to assess the situation before executing my decisive move immediately before the finish line.” The event showcased exceptional international competition, particularly between Ethiopian and Kenyan athletes who continue to dominate long-distance running globally.

  • US wins the Sydney leg of Sail GP, showing its class in light winds

    US wins the Sydney leg of Sail GP, showing its class in light winds

    SYDNEY — The United States SailGP Team delivered a masterclass in light-wind sailing tactics to claim victory in the Sydney leg of the global championship series on Sunday. In a dramatic three-boat final against Great Britain and Spain, the American team demonstrated exceptional boat handling and strategic positioning to secure their first event win since the fourth season.

    The final race unfolded in challenging conditions with winds ranging between 8-15 knots (9-17 mph). American driver Taylor Canfield executed a perfect start from the favored upper end of the line, immediately establishing competitive advantage. Though Britain crossed the starting line marginally ahead, the U.S. vessel demonstrated superior speed and optimal sailing angles to overtake their rivals.

    At the first mark, Britain maintained a narrow lead, but the Americans quickly leveraged their foiling catamaran’s performance capabilities to establish a dominant position they would maintain throughout the remainder of the race. When the British team attempted to split from the course in search of favorable wind conditions on the second leg, their tactical gamble failed to produce results, allowing the U.S. team to consolidate their lead.

    The victory marked a significant milestone for the American team, ending a two-season win drought dating back to the Cádiz event in Season 4. Despite achieving a peak speed of approximately 41 knots during competition, the team maintained foiling flight for only 22% of the final race duration.

    The Sydney event proceeded with a reduced fleet of 11 vessels following a serious collision during the previous Auckland competition that sidelined both the French and New Zealand teams. That incident resulted in hospitalizations, with New Zealand sailor Louis Sinclair sustaining compound fractures to both legs and French strategist Manon Audinet suffering chest injuries.

    SailGP competition features identical 50-foot foiling catamarans capable of reaching speeds approaching 100 km/h (60 mph), as demonstrated in the high-wind Auckland conditions. Britain had previously won the season opener in Perth, Australia, while the home-team Flying Roos claimed victory in Auckland.

    Following three events in the sixth season championship, Great Britain maintains the overall series lead with 29 points, followed by Australia with 25 points and the United States with 20 points.