Historic Medal and Hosting Debut for India
India has achieved a landmark feat in roller skating, with 22-year-old Anandkumar Velkumar from Tamil Nadu winning the country's first-ever bronze medal in the sport at the World Games 2025 in Chengdu, China. Competing in the Inline Speed Skating Track ā Men's Sprint 1000m event, Velkumar's performance contributed to India's best-ever medal haul of three at the World Games. This achievement has been widely praised by the Indian Olympic Association and the Ministry of Youth Affairs and Sports, highlighting a growing appreciation for non-mainstream disciplines in India.
Adding to India's growing presence in diverse sports, the nation is set to host a major international winter sports event for the first time. The Asian Open Short Track Speed Skating Trophy 2025 will be organized from August 20 to 23, 2025, at the Maharana Pratap Sports College in Raipur, Dehradun. More than 11 Asian countries, including China and Japan, are expected to participate in this historic competition.
Squash and Cricket Updates
In squash, India's top seed Anahat Singh is poised to compete in the finals of the Bega Open in Australia today, August 17, 2025. She will face Egypt's second-seeded Habiba Hani, having triumphed over Nour Khafagy in the semifinals despite sustaining an injury.
Meanwhile, significant developments are unfolding in Indian cricket ahead of the Asia Cup 2025. Key fast bowler Jasprit Bumrah and dynamic batter Suryakumar Yadav have both been declared fit and available, providing a major boost to the team's prospects. There is considerable speculation surrounding India's squad announcement for the Asia Cup, with reports suggesting Suryakumar Yadav is likely to captain the team and Shubman Gill's potential inclusion. Across the border, Pakistan has announced its 17-member squad for the tournament, notably omitting star players Babar Azam and Mohammad Rizwan, with Salman Ali Agha slated to lead the side.
In domestic football, the Durand Cup, one of India's oldest and most prestigious competitions, has seen Shillong Lajong and Northeast United qualify for the semifinals, showcasing strong performances from the Northeast region.