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In the Vijay Hazare Trophy, Rohit Sharma was dismissed for a duck in the first over in Jaipur, a stark contrast to his previous 155-run innings. Meanwhile, Virat Kohli scored 77 off 61 balls, marking his sixth consecutive fifty in the format. Kohli also recently became the fastest to 16,000 List A runs and scored 131 in a prior match.

Virat Kohli and Rohit Sharma made impactful returns to the Vijay Hazare Trophy 2025-26, both scoring centuries in their respective team's opening-round victories. Kohli's 131 guided Delhi to a four-wicket win over Andhra, and he surpassed Sachin Tendulkar's record for the quickest to 16,000 List A runs. Sharma's century led Mumbai to an eight-wicket win against Sikkim. Both players are set to compete in the second round on December 26.

Rohit Sharma was dismissed for a first-ball duck against Uttarakhand in the Vijay Hazare Trophy. This followed his impressive 155 in Mumbai's previous match against Sikkim. Despite Sharma's early dismissal, Mumbai's innings was stabilized by a century partnership between Sarfaraz Khan and Musheer Khan.

A controversial umpiring decision marred the Boxing Day Ashes Test as Mitchell Starc was dismissed on an alleged no-ball. Replays suggested the bowler, Brydon Carse, may have overstepped the crease, but the third umpire upheld the dismissal. This decision, witnessed by a record MCG crowd, sparked debate among former Australian players who questioned the ruling. Australia was bowled out for 152, with England struggling at 62/4.

Cristiano Ronaldo, at 40, has impressed fans with his lean physique, reportedly maintaining less than seven percent body fat. Fitness experts attribute his exceptional conditioning to years of disciplined training, including strength work, endurance, and mobility, alongside a strong focus on recovery, sleep, and nutrition. This level of physical consistency challenges the natural decline often seen with age in athletes, highlighting his unwavering commitment to peak performance.

Indian men's hockey captain Harmanpreet Singh expressed confidence in the team's ability to win major tournaments, citing recent Olympic bronze medals as evidence. He stated that the upcoming Hockey India League (HIL) will provide sufficient preparation time for the World Cup. The HIL 2026 is scheduled from January 3-26, featuring eight men's teams and four women's teams across Chennai, Ranchi, and Bhubaneswar.

Manchester United Head Coach Ruben Amorim stated he is a "better manager" now than last season, having learned significantly. He indicated he would approach approximately 75% of decisions differently while maintaining core principles. Amorim reflected on past choices, emphasizing his growth and confidence in his current capabilities.

Australia has taken an early lead in the 4th Ashes Test against England, with bowlers Mitchell Starc and Michael Neser causing significant trouble for the English team on Day 1. Australia enters the match with a commanding 3-0 series lead, having already secured the Ashes. Steve Smith is captaining Australia in this Boxing Day Test, with Pat Cummins managing his workload.

Shubman Gill has been excluded from India's squad for the T20 World Cup 2026, a decision that has surprised many given his recent regular inclusion and vice-captaincy. Former player Aakash Chopra also omitted Gill from his suggested alternate squad, highlighting the debate around his selection for the upcoming tournament where India aims to defend its title.

German national team sporting director Rudi Völler stated that Barcelona goalkeeper Marc-Andre ter Stegen must secure consistent playing time to be considered Germany's number one for the 2026 World Cup. While Ter Stegen has been a key player for Barcelona, his international career has largely been in Manuel Neuer's shadow. A recent back injury and changes at Barcelona have complicated his return to regular club minutes, which Völler emphasized is crucial for his national team prospects.

Virat Kohli scored a rapid 77 off 61 balls for Delhi against Gujarat in the Vijay Hazare Trophy. Despite losing early wickets, Kohli took control, reaching his half-century in 29 deliveries. He anchored Delhi's innings, which reached 58 in the first ten overs, and helped stabilize the team at 108 for 4 in 21.5 overs, even as Gujarat's bowlers, particularly Vishal Jayswal, applied pressure.

In the Vijay Hazare Trophy on Friday, December 26, Indian cricketers Virat Kohli and Rohit Sharma participated in their respective matches. Kohli narrowly missed a century against Gujarat, scoring below 100. Sharma was dismissed for a golden duck in his match against Uttarakhand, failing to score any runs.