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PBKS vs RR, IPL 2026: Opening acts in focus as Punjab Kings faces Rajasthan Royals Yashasvi Jaiswal, Vaibhav Sooryavanshi, Priyansh Arya, and Prabhsimran Singh – in any other era, at least two of them would’ve been opening for India in T20Is. Yet none of them is, at the moment. But when they turn up for their respective sides – Rajasthan Royals and Punjab Kings – on Tuesday, all eyes at the Maharaja Yadavindra Singh International Stadium will be on them.Jaiswal and Sooryavanshi have struck at 192.45 while opening, just behind Arya and Prabhsimran’s 215.53. The two opening pairs have been monumental to their teams’ performances so far.While PBKS has been unbeaten in seven games, RR has won five out of eight.Of course, the other nine players have had a say in their respective teams’ positions in the table, but remove these four, and there’s a problem to solve.For Punjab, Cooper Connolly has done well to establish himself in his debut IPL season, scoring 240 runs in six outings. He’s followed by another in-form batter, Shreyas Iyer, who has been just as impressive in keeping pace with his openers, striking at 186. Beyond that, the scoring rate dips to 9.71 per over for batters five to seven.For Royals, the issue runs deeper. While the top three – with Dhruv Jurel at one down – seem in control, inconsistency from Riyan Parag and Shimron Hetmyer has dragged the numbers down. RR’s No. 5 to 7 batters score at 7.75 runs per over – second-worst after Lucknow Super Giants this season.The drop in effectiveness down the order makes the openers’ role even more crucial, and these four have shouldered that responsibility, shaping how their batting line-ups function.For Royals, the bowlers – led by Jofra Archer (13 wickets), Ravi Bishnoi (11), and Nandre Burger (8) – have compensated for the batting vulnerabilities. Their economy rate of 9.39 is the second-best after Super Giants, and they pick up a wicket every 14 balls.PBKS, though, hasn’t been able to keep opposition batters in check, conceding 10.30 runs per over – second-worst after Mumbai Indians. Yet, Punjab remains unbeaten. As was evident from its record chase of 265 in Delhi a couple of days ago, it is a side built to score 250.On Tuesday evening, it will be a contest between a side designed to score 250 and another built to restrict the opposition to around 220. For the away captain Parag, the most important moment could come at the toss – if he gets it right, he would have to bowl first and try to exploit the early swing on offer. Otherwise, Punjab would be more than happy to chase any target at this point.Published on Apr 27, 2026 #PBKS #IPL #Opening #acts #focus #Punjab #Kings #faces #Rajasthan #Royals

PBKS vs RR, IPL 2026: Opening acts in focus as Punjab Kings faces Rajasthan Royals

Yashasvi Jaiswal, Vaibhav Sooryavanshi, Priyansh Arya, and Prabhsimran Singh – in any other era, at least two of them would’ve been opening for India in T20Is. Yet none of them is, at the moment. But when they turn up for their respective sides – Rajasthan Royals and Punjab Kings – on Tuesday, all eyes at the Maharaja Yadavindra Singh International Stadium will be on them.

Jaiswal and Sooryavanshi have struck at 192.45 while opening, just behind Arya and Prabhsimran’s 215.53. The two opening pairs have been monumental to their teams’ performances so far.

While PBKS has been unbeaten in seven games, RR has won five out of eight.

Of course, the other nine players have had a say in their respective teams’ positions in the table, but remove these four, and there’s a problem to solve.

For Punjab, Cooper Connolly has done well to establish himself in his debut IPL season, scoring 240 runs in six outings. He’s followed by another in-form batter, Shreyas Iyer, who has been just as impressive in keeping pace with his openers, striking at 186. Beyond that, the scoring rate dips to 9.71 per over for batters five to seven.

For Royals, the issue runs deeper. While the top three – with Dhruv Jurel at one down – seem in control, inconsistency from Riyan Parag and Shimron Hetmyer has dragged the numbers down. RR’s No. 5 to 7 batters score at 7.75 runs per over – second-worst after Lucknow Super Giants this season.

The drop in effectiveness down the order makes the openers’ role even more crucial, and these four have shouldered that responsibility, shaping how their batting line-ups function.

For Royals, the bowlers – led by Jofra Archer (13 wickets), Ravi Bishnoi (11), and Nandre Burger (8) – have compensated for the batting vulnerabilities. Their economy rate of 9.39 is the second-best after Super Giants, and they pick up a wicket every 14 balls.

PBKS, though, hasn’t been able to keep opposition batters in check, conceding 10.30 runs per over – second-worst after Mumbai Indians. Yet, Punjab remains unbeaten. As was evident from its record chase of 265 in Delhi a couple of days ago, it is a side built to score 250.

On Tuesday evening, it will be a contest between a side designed to score 250 and another built to restrict the opposition to around 220. For the away captain Parag, the most important moment could come at the toss – if he gets it right, he would have to bowl first and try to exploit the early swing on offer. Otherwise, Punjab would be more than happy to chase any target at this point.

Published on Apr 27, 2026

#PBKS #IPL #Opening #acts #focus #Punjab #Kings #faces #Rajasthan #Royals

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Yashasvi Jaiswal, Vaibhav Sooryavanshi, Priyansh Arya, and Prabhsimran Singh – in any other era, at least two of them would’ve been opening for India in T20Is. Yet none of them is, at the moment. But when they turn up for their respective sides – Rajasthan Royals and Punjab Kings – on Tuesday, all eyes at the Maharaja Yadavindra Singh International Stadium will be on them.

Jaiswal and Sooryavanshi have struck at 192.45 while opening, just behind Arya and Prabhsimran’s 215.53. The two opening pairs have been monumental to their teams’ performances so far.

While PBKS has been unbeaten in seven games, RR has won five out of eight.

Of course, the other nine players have had a say in their respective teams’ positions in the table, but remove these four, and there’s a problem to solve.

For Punjab, Cooper Connolly has done well to establish himself in his debut IPL season, scoring 240 runs in six outings. He’s followed by another in-form batter, Shreyas Iyer, who has been just as impressive in keeping pace with his openers, striking at 186. Beyond that, the scoring rate dips to 9.71 per over for batters five to seven.

For Royals, the issue runs deeper. While the top three – with Dhruv Jurel at one down – seem in control, inconsistency from Riyan Parag and Shimron Hetmyer has dragged the numbers down. RR’s No. 5 to 7 batters score at 7.75 runs per over – second-worst after Lucknow Super Giants this season.

The drop in effectiveness down the order makes the openers’ role even more crucial, and these four have shouldered that responsibility, shaping how their batting line-ups function.

For Royals, the bowlers – led by Jofra Archer (13 wickets), Ravi Bishnoi (11), and Nandre Burger (8) – have compensated for the batting vulnerabilities. Their economy rate of 9.39 is the second-best after Super Giants, and they pick up a wicket every 14 balls.

PBKS, though, hasn’t been able to keep opposition batters in check, conceding 10.30 runs per over – second-worst after Mumbai Indians. Yet, Punjab remains unbeaten. As was evident from its record chase of 265 in Delhi a couple of days ago, it is a side built to score 250.

On Tuesday evening, it will be a contest between a side designed to score 250 and another built to restrict the opposition to around 220. For the away captain Parag, the most important moment could come at the toss – if he gets it right, he would have to bowl first and try to exploit the early swing on offer. Otherwise, Punjab would be more than happy to chase any target at this point.

Published on Apr 27, 2026

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WrestleMania 42 Fallout: WWE Shakeups, Releases, and What’s Next | Deadspin.com <div id="section-1"> <p>WrestleMania 42 is in the rearview mirror and will go down as one of the most polarizing of its kind. Ads were galore, the ESPN app kept crashing, and the longest match across the board was 33 minutes long. On the bright side, almost <a href="https://deadspin.com/wrestlemania-42-grades-night-1-disaster-night-2-delivers/" target="_blank">everyone’s favorite won last weekend</a>. Randy Orton was originally supposed to win his 15th title, but Triple H decided to keep his rivalry going with Cody Rhodes. Long story short, WWE wanted to hit the reset button and rid the filth of TKO’s meddling with the insertion of Pat McAfee.</p><h2 id="the-ruler-has-arrived" class=" uppercase break-words">The Ruler Has Arrived</h2><p>Oba! Oba! Oba! Oba!</p><p><a href="https://www.forbes.com/sites/alfredkonuwa/2026/04/19/wwe-wrestlemania-42-results-oba-femi-annihilates-brock-lesnar-and-lesnar-retires-for-now/" target="_blank">Oba Femi beat Brock Lesnar at WrestleMania in the opener</a>, and WWE made the right decision. Rumor has it that Brock Lesnar picked Oba Femi to be his WrestleMania opponent and put him over. The Nigerian Giant opened Monday Night Raw, the crowd strutted along to his entrance and serenaded him. Femi said, “The Ruler Has Arrived,” and the mic dropped. Short, sweet, and to the point. Where he goes from here is anybody’s guess but expect a clash with Roman Reigns for the World Heavyweight title at SummerSlam or before the year is out.</p><h2 id="the-mania-match-that-shouldve-happened" class=" uppercase break-words">The ‘Mania Match that Should’ve Happened</h2><p>It’s a shame Iyo Sky vs Asuka (even adding Kaire Sane) didn’t happen at WrestleMania. Instead, Sky made an appearance in Rhea’s title match and celebrated Ripley’s victory. According to reports, the creative team didn’t want to rush this match and instead gave it time to develop. That same team put Gunther and Seth Rollins together in less than three weeks. On Raw, Sky and Ripley took down Asuka and Sane in the first match of the show. Hopefully, we will get Iyo Sky and Asuka at Backlash. It’s ridiculous that one of the greatest female wrestlers on the planet couldn’t get on the WM card.</p><h2 id="the-next-generation-is-here" class=" uppercase break-words">The N(E)XT Generation is Here</h2><p>Every year after WrestleMania, WWE calls up the best and brightest stars from NXT. Ethan Page and Sol Ruca made their debuts on Raw, while Fatal Influence was involved in two segments on SmackDown. Page looks to have found his place in the IC title picture, while Ruca stood toe-to-toe with WWE Raw Women’s Champion Liv Morgan. Meanwhile, Fatal Influence got involved in the tag team title bout before Jacy Jayne hit Rhea Ripley with her best shot. Joe Hendry is scheduled to have a concert on Raw, while Blake Monroe and Ricky Saints will be making their debuts soon.</p><h2 id="all-gas-no-breaks" class=" uppercase break-words">All Gas No Breaks</h2><p>When Roman Reigns won their first World Heavyweight Championship, fans wondered what was next for the Tribal Chief. Would it be Rock, Bron Breakker, or Oba Femi? None of the above. In the last segment of Raw, Jacob Fatu interrupted Reigns and the Usos looking for a title opportunity. It looks like WWE fans are going to see Roman Reigns vs Jacob Fatu at Backlash in Tampa. Fatu will likely lose to Reigns, but if they add a stipulation that he must join the Bloodline as a result. Things could get interesting. It’s great to see the Samoan Werewolf get his flower and confront the Tribal Chief. Let’s hope there are bigger things for him on the horizon.</p><h2 id="spring-cleaning" class=" uppercase break-words">Spring Cleaning</h2><p>There’s no easy way to put it. Days after WWE/TKO announced WrestleMania 42 was the highest-grossing event in company history, over 20 superstars were released. Most notable were Santos Escobar, Apollo Crews, Kaire Sane, Aleister Black, along with his wife, Zelina Vega, and the Wyatt Sicks. The strange part of all of this is WWE aired a vignette for the Wyatt Sicks during a SmackDown commercial break despite them being released. Something must have gotten lost in translation along the way. Fans might be under the impression that TKO is responsible for this happening, but that lies with Triple H. Hoping all the talent find another home sooner than later.</p><h2 id="returns-and-departures" class=" uppercase break-words">Returns and Departures</h2><p>We got Paige, Bron Breakker, and Street Profits back in the last week. Paige is a Women’s Tag Team champion, while Breakker is targeting Seth Rollins. The Street Profits mysteriously disappeared from WWE television but returned to take out the Vision. Here’s to hoping they take the tag titles off the Vision immediately.</p><p>On the flip side, a match planned for Backlash has been cancelled. Pat McAfee and Jelly Roll have departed from WWE on their own accord. After harsh backlash (pun fully intended), the two went to their social media platforms and announced their departure from the company. Cody Rhodes on SmackDown said, “To those outside forces that kept interceding and interjecting into my WrestleMania plans… You guys are 0-3. Send your best or count your money and mind your damn business.” He refers to WM 40, where Rock almost took his spot, WM 41 with Travis Scott, and finally Pat McAfee at WM 42. Expect a rematch between Orton and Rhodes for the belt without any shenanigans, and for Orton to win his 15th title. The American Nightmare isn’t medically cleared, so fans will have to wait and see when these two will clash.</p><p>One last thing before I forget, Tiffany Stratton is the new Women’s US champion after beating Guilia. Don’t worry if you forgot about this title; so, did Triple H and the rest of the creative team. They seem to only care about it when the belt is on Chelsea Green, who is nursing a broken foot and will be out for several months.</p><p>With new talent in the spotlight, WWE may have found its formula for success. Unfortunately, dozens have lost their jobs in the past few days. Let’s see what Triple H and co. have in store for this next chapter.</p> </div> #WrestleMania #Fallout #WWE #Shakeups #Releases #Whats #Deadspin.com

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Deadspin | Fire transfer high-scoring Hugo Cuypers to CF Monterrey Apr 18, 2026; Cincinnati, Ohio, USA; Chicago Fire FC forward Hugo Cuypers (9) (center) dribbles forward during the second half of an MLS match against FC Cincinnati at TQL Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Kareem Elgazzar-Imagn Images The Chicago Fire sent star striker Hugo Cuypers to CF Monterrey of Liga MX for a multimillion-dollar transfer fee, the MLS club announced Thursday. Cuypers, 29, departed for a .5 million transfer fee plus 0,000 in add-ons, according to The Athletic. The Belgian’s exit opens a designated player roster spot. “My time in Chicago is one that I will always treasure,” Cuypers said in a statement released by the team. “Since arriving here in 2024, the city has become a second home for me and my family. “I would like to thank the club and staff and especially the fans for their unwavering support. I look forward to cheering the team from afar and wish my teammates nothing but the best.” Named to the 2026 MLS All-Star Game, Cuypers has scored 13 goals this season, tied for the league lead with Petar Musa of FC Dallas. He established a Fire record this campaign by scoring in 10 consecutive matches in which he played. Cuypers amassed 40 goals in 75 matches for the Fire since being acquired for a reported million fee from Belgian first division side K.A.A. Gent in February 2024. Chicago signed Polish free agent striker Robert Lewandowski in late June. The former star for Borussia Dortmund, Bayern Munich and FC Barcelona made his Fire debut on Wednesday. “We are incredibly grateful to Hugo for everything he has given this club, both on and off the field,” Chicago director of football and head coach Gregg Berhalter said in the team’s news release. “He is an outstanding professional, a valued teammate and someone who has made a lasting impact on our group. We wish Hugo and his family nothing but success in this next chapter. “While these decisions are never easy, this was the right move for both Hugo and the club,” Berhalter continued. “With his contract nearing its end, we felt this was the right moment to maximize the opportunity, create greater roster flexibility and continue investing in the squad to build a competitive roster now and in the years ahead.” –Field Level Media #Deadspin #Fire #transfer #highscoring #Hugo #Cuypers #MonterreyApr 18, 2026; Cincinnati, Ohio, USA; Chicago Fire FC forward Hugo Cuypers (9) (center) dribbles forward during the second half of an MLS match against FC Cincinnati at TQL Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Kareem Elgazzar-Imagn Images

The Chicago Fire sent star striker Hugo Cuypers to CF Monterrey of Liga MX for a multimillion-dollar transfer fee, the MLS club announced Thursday.

Cuypers, 29, departed for a $7.5 million transfer fee plus $500,000 in add-ons, according to The Athletic. The Belgian’s exit opens a designated player roster spot.

“My time in Chicago is one that I will always treasure,” Cuypers said in a statement released by the team. “Since arriving here in 2024, the city has become a second home for me and my family.

“I would like to thank the club and staff and especially the fans for their unwavering support. I look forward to cheering the team from afar and wish my teammates nothing but the best.”


Named to the 2026 MLS All-Star Game, Cuypers has scored 13 goals this season, tied for the league lead with Petar Musa of FC Dallas. He established a Fire record this campaign by scoring in 10 consecutive matches in which he played.

Cuypers amassed 40 goals in 75 matches for the Fire since being acquired for a reported $12 million fee from Belgian first division side K.A.A. Gent in February 2024.

Chicago signed Polish free agent striker Robert Lewandowski in late June. The former star for Borussia Dortmund, Bayern Munich and FC Barcelona made his Fire debut on Wednesday.

“We are incredibly grateful to Hugo for everything he has given this club, both on and off the field,” Chicago director of football and head coach Gregg Berhalter said in the team’s news release. “He is an outstanding professional, a valued teammate and someone who has made a lasting impact on our group. We wish Hugo and his family nothing but success in this next chapter.

“While these decisions are never easy, this was the right move for both Hugo and the club,” Berhalter continued. “With his contract nearing its end, we felt this was the right moment to maximize the opportunity, create greater roster flexibility and continue investing in the squad to build a competitive roster now and in the years ahead.”


–Field Level Media

#Deadspin #Fire #transfer #highscoring #Hugo #Cuypers #Monterrey">Deadspin | Fire transfer high-scoring Hugo Cuypers to CF Monterrey Apr 18, 2026; Cincinnati, Ohio, USA; Chicago Fire FC forward Hugo Cuypers (9) (center) dribbles forward during the second half of an MLS match against FC Cincinnati at TQL Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Kareem Elgazzar-Imagn Images The Chicago Fire sent star striker Hugo Cuypers to CF Monterrey of Liga MX for a multimillion-dollar transfer fee, the MLS club announced Thursday. Cuypers, 29, departed for a .5 million transfer fee plus 0,000 in add-ons, according to The Athletic. The Belgian’s exit opens a designated player roster spot. “My time in Chicago is one that I will always treasure,” Cuypers said in a statement released by the team. “Since arriving here in 2024, the city has become a second home for me and my family. “I would like to thank the club and staff and especially the fans for their unwavering support. I look forward to cheering the team from afar and wish my teammates nothing but the best.” Named to the 2026 MLS All-Star Game, Cuypers has scored 13 goals this season, tied for the league lead with Petar Musa of FC Dallas. He established a Fire record this campaign by scoring in 10 consecutive matches in which he played. Cuypers amassed 40 goals in 75 matches for the Fire since being acquired for a reported million fee from Belgian first division side K.A.A. Gent in February 2024. Chicago signed Polish free agent striker Robert Lewandowski in late June. The former star for Borussia Dortmund, Bayern Munich and FC Barcelona made his Fire debut on Wednesday. “We are incredibly grateful to Hugo for everything he has given this club, both on and off the field,” Chicago director of football and head coach Gregg Berhalter said in the team’s news release. “He is an outstanding professional, a valued teammate and someone who has made a lasting impact on our group. We wish Hugo and his family nothing but success in this next chapter. “While these decisions are never easy, this was the right move for both Hugo and the club,” Berhalter continued. “With his contract nearing its end, we felt this was the right moment to maximize the opportunity, create greater roster flexibility and continue investing in the squad to build a competitive roster now and in the years ahead.” –Field Level Media #Deadspin #Fire #transfer #highscoring #Hugo #Cuypers #Monterrey

Kayla McBride is a top 10 scorer in the WNBA, averaging 18.2 points and shooting 39.8% from beyond the arc. She’s the second-leading scorer on the best team in the league — the Minnesota Lynx — and she’s a strong defender, too.

So, it comes as a surprise that she wasn’t selected as an All-Star reserve this season, especially when the league had the chance to appoint her as an injury reserve on Wednesday.

McBride has been named an All-Star five times in her career, including the last two seasons with the Lynx. But this year, the Lynx are represented by Natasha Howard, Olivia Miles, and Courtney Williams in the All-Star game, and McBride is the odd one out. All three players have deserving cases — and Howard and Miles were selected as starters — but it seems wrong that the 34-year-old was snubbed.

Part of why McBride was named an All-Star is because her scoring rampage is more recent — she was the Lynx’s leading scorer for eight straight games between July 3rd and July 20th, and was named Western Conference Player of the Week last week. So, her best stretch of basketball came after All-Star fan and media voting had closed, and even before coaches selected All-Star reserves.

The full list of All-Star starters includes Caitlin Clark (IND), Paige Bueckers (DAL), A’ja Wilson (LVA), Breanna Stewart (NYL), Olivia Miles (MIN), Kelsey Mitchell (IND), Aliyah Boston (IND), Natasha Howard (MIN), Jessica Shepard (DAL), and Gabby Williams (GSV).

The full list of All-Star reserves includes Rhyne Howard (ATL), Angel Reese (ATL), Allisha Gray (ATL), Marina Mabrey (TOR), Jonquel Jones (NYL), Dominique Malonga (SEA), Courtney Williams (MIN), Kelsey Plum (LAS), Kiki Iriafen (WAS), Jackie Young (LVA), Nneka Ogwumike (LAS), and Sonia Citron (WAS).

But the league had another chance to reward McBride with an All-Star selection, and they whiffed.

Kayla McBride probably should have been picked over Kahleah Copper for the All-Star replacement

Los Angeles Sparks guard Kelsey Plum is sidelined with a leg injury, and the WNBA announced Wednesday night that Phoenix Mercury guard Kahleah Copper is the injury replacement.

Copper has had a good season; she’s the 7th-leading scorer in the WNBA, averaging 20.5 points per game, and her efficiency has increased after a sluggish start to the year. But she’s still shooting 42.8% from the field and 27.5% from three, marks that are far lower than McBride’s (who is shooting 45.8% from the field and 39.8% from three).

Most importantly, Copper headlines a Mercury squad that is 10-18 and out of the playoff race. (In comparison, the Lynx are 22-6 with a league-best +8.7 point differential). Therefore, it’s hard to make the case that Copper earned the selection over McBride, both when you look at the two players’ counting stats and their impact on winning.

McBride isn’t the only player who has an All-Star case but wasn’t ultimately selected: Carla Leite, Natisha Hiedeman, Shakira Austin, and Alyssa Thomas have all had strong seasons too, among others.

“Mac has really put us on her back,” Napheesa Collier said Wednesday. “This tear that she’s on has been so clutch … Also, she’s a huge reason I wanted to get back on the court, too. Like, ‘Mac looks like she’s having so much fun. I want to get out there.’”

If there’s one more injury replacement selection, McBride should be the no-brainer pick. If not, she’ll enjoy a much-deserved break after an elite first half of the season.

#major #WNBA #AllStar #snub #season">There’s 1 major WNBA All-Star snub this season Kayla McBride is a top 10 scorer in the WNBA, averaging 18.2 points and shooting 39.8% from beyond the arc. She’s the second-leading scorer on the best team in the league — the Minnesota Lynx — and she’s a strong defender, too.So, it comes as a surprise that she wasn’t selected as an All-Star reserve this season, especially when the league had the chance to appoint her as an injury reserve on Wednesday.McBride has been named an All-Star five times in her career, including the last two seasons with the Lynx. But this year, the Lynx are represented by Natasha Howard, Olivia Miles, and Courtney Williams in the All-Star game, and McBride is the odd one out. All three players have deserving cases — and Howard and Miles were selected as starters — but it seems wrong that the 34-year-old was snubbed.Part of why McBride was named an All-Star is because her scoring rampage is more recent — she was the Lynx’s leading scorer for eight straight games between July 3rd and July 20th, and was named Western Conference Player of the Week last week. So, her best stretch of basketball came after All-Star fan and media voting had closed, and even before coaches selected All-Star reserves.The full list of All-Star starters includes Caitlin Clark (IND), Paige Bueckers (DAL), A’ja Wilson (LVA), Breanna Stewart (NYL), Olivia Miles (MIN), Kelsey Mitchell (IND), Aliyah Boston (IND), Natasha Howard (MIN), Jessica Shepard (DAL), and Gabby Williams (GSV).The full list of All-Star reserves includes Rhyne Howard (ATL), Angel Reese (ATL), Allisha Gray (ATL), Marina Mabrey (TOR), Jonquel Jones (NYL), Dominique Malonga (SEA), Courtney Williams (MIN), Kelsey Plum (LAS), Kiki Iriafen (WAS), Jackie Young (LVA), Nneka Ogwumike (LAS), and Sonia Citron (WAS).But the league had another chance to reward McBride with an All-Star selection, and they whiffed.Kayla McBride probably should have been picked over Kahleah Copper for the All-Star replacement Los Angeles Sparks guard Kelsey Plum is sidelined with a leg injury, and the WNBA announced Wednesday night that Phoenix Mercury guard Kahleah Copper is the injury replacement.Copper has had a good season; she’s the 7th-leading scorer in the WNBA, averaging 20.5 points per game, and her efficiency has increased after a sluggish start to the year. But she’s still shooting 42.8% from the field and 27.5% from three, marks that are far lower than McBride’s (who is shooting 45.8% from the field and 39.8% from three).Most importantly, Copper headlines a Mercury squad that is 10-18 and out of the playoff race. (In comparison, the Lynx are 22-6 with a league-best +8.7 point differential). Therefore, it’s hard to make the case that Copper earned the selection over McBride, both when you look at the two players’ counting stats and their impact on winning.McBride isn’t the only player who has an All-Star case but wasn’t ultimately selected: Carla Leite, Natisha Hiedeman, Shakira Austin, and Alyssa Thomas have all had strong seasons too, among others.“Mac has really put us on her back,” Napheesa Collier said Wednesday. “This tear that she’s on has been so clutch … Also, she’s a huge reason I wanted to get back on the court, too. Like, ‘Mac looks like she’s having so much fun. I want to get out there.’”If there’s one more injury replacement selection, McBride should be the no-brainer pick. If not, she’ll enjoy a much-deserved break after an elite first half of the season. #major #WNBA #AllStar #snub #season

The past and the present converged in a dazzling celebration of culture even as team spirit and the joy of sportsmanship came alive at the Commonwealth Games Opening Ceremony at the Hydro here on Thursday.

It was an unforgettable evening as Scotland’s rich traditions blended seamlessly with a top-class, cutting-edge spectacle, offering a visual and musical treat to a packed audience. 

Against a backdrop of native folk/modern melodies and vibrant performances by a range of artists, history and modernity shook hands in a riveting theatre, underlining why Glasgow remains one of the finest hosts and keeps building on the success of the 2014 Commonwealth edition.

The Ceremony began with a journey through Scotland’s heritage. Track cyclist Sir Chris Hoy, regarded as the nation’s greatest sporting icon, and Scottish actor Greg McHugh appeared magically from the LED screen to the stage through the TARDIS box, accompanied by King Charles and Queen Camilla.

ALSO READ: How boxer Lovlina Borgohain confirmed India’s first medal at CWG Glasgow 2026 before opening ceremony

The TARDIS, a tribute to the legendary British science-fiction series Doctor Who, became a storytelling device for the memorable occasion.

But the moment that truly captured the spirit of the Commonwealth Games was the athletes’ parade. For the parade, the classic-modern soundtrack, created by Scottish electronic folk Valtos was spectacular; the duo collaborating with artists from Scotland and across the Commonwealth.

As the 74 Commonwealth Games associations marched into the arena, each one of them received an introduction on the LED screen. The Commonwealth baton was brought alive through colourful animations inspired by Scotland’s native flora, creating a connection between the host nation and the visiting sportspersons. Team Scotland, the tail of the pack, earned the biggest roar from the rapturous crowd.

From the mythical Loch Ness Monster, the legendary creature of Scottish freshwater folklore, to the “Voice of Time” symbolised by the Glasgow clock; from Nathan Evans’ sizzling show to the eye-catching dance of Glaswegians at Glasgow Central; from showcasing the city’s historic prowess in shipbuilding, textiles, locomotives and steam engines to singer Callum Beattie’s remarkable rendition of ‘Yes Sir, I Can Boogie’, the Opening Ceremony had it all.

Singer Nina Nesbitt produced a stirring performance of the 1988 Scottish classic ‘I’m Gonna Be (500 Miles)’, transporting those gathered to that period. 

Donald Rukare, President of Commonwealth Sport, and George Black, Chair of Glasgow 2026, explained how the Games belonged to the people.

King Charles officially declared the Games open. 

Published on Jul 24, 2026

#CWG #Opening #Ceremony #Glasgow #glows #celebration #present #future">CWG 2026 Opening Ceremony: Glasgow glows in celebration of past, present and future The past and the present converged in a dazzling celebration of culture even as team spirit and the joy of sportsmanship came alive at the Commonwealth Games Opening Ceremony at the Hydro here on Thursday.It was an unforgettable evening as Scotland’s rich traditions blended seamlessly with a top-class, cutting-edge spectacle, offering a visual and musical treat to a packed audience. Against a backdrop of native folk/modern melodies and vibrant performances by a range of artists, history and modernity shook hands in a riveting theatre, underlining why Glasgow remains one of the finest hosts and keeps building on the success of the 2014 Commonwealth edition.The Ceremony began with a journey through Scotland’s heritage. Track cyclist Sir Chris Hoy, regarded as the nation’s greatest sporting icon, and Scottish actor Greg McHugh appeared magically from the LED screen to the stage through the TARDIS box, accompanied by King Charles and Queen Camilla.ALSO READ: How boxer Lovlina Borgohain confirmed India’s first medal at CWG Glasgow 2026 before opening ceremonyThe TARDIS, a tribute to the legendary British science-fiction series Doctor Who, became a storytelling device for the memorable occasion.But the moment that truly captured the spirit of the Commonwealth Games was the athletes’ parade. For the parade, the classic-modern soundtrack, created by Scottish electronic folk Valtos was spectacular; the duo collaborating with artists from Scotland and across the Commonwealth.As the 74 Commonwealth Games associations marched into the arena, each one of them received an introduction on the LED screen. The Commonwealth baton was brought alive through colourful animations inspired by Scotland’s native flora, creating a connection between the host nation and the visiting sportspersons. Team Scotland, the tail of the pack, earned the biggest roar from the rapturous crowd.From the mythical Loch Ness Monster, the legendary creature of Scottish freshwater folklore, to the “Voice of Time” symbolised by the Glasgow clock; from Nathan Evans’ sizzling show to the eye-catching dance of Glaswegians at Glasgow Central; from showcasing the city’s historic prowess in shipbuilding, textiles, locomotives and steam engines to singer Callum Beattie’s remarkable rendition of ‘Yes Sir, I Can Boogie’, the Opening Ceremony had it all.Singer Nina Nesbitt produced a stirring performance of the 1988 Scottish classic ‘I’m Gonna Be (500 Miles)’, transporting those gathered to that period. Donald Rukare, President of Commonwealth Sport, and George Black, Chair of Glasgow 2026, explained how the Games belonged to the people.King Charles officially declared the Games open. Published on Jul 24, 2026 #CWG #Opening #Ceremony #Glasgow #glows #celebration #present #future

How boxer Lovlina Borgohain confirmed India’s first medal at CWG Glasgow 2026 before opening ceremony

The TARDIS, a tribute to the legendary British science-fiction series Doctor Who, became a storytelling device for the memorable occasion.

But the moment that truly captured the spirit of the Commonwealth Games was the athletes’ parade. For the parade, the classic-modern soundtrack, created by Scottish electronic folk Valtos was spectacular; the duo collaborating with artists from Scotland and across the Commonwealth.

As the 74 Commonwealth Games associations marched into the arena, each one of them received an introduction on the LED screen. The Commonwealth baton was brought alive through colourful animations inspired by Scotland’s native flora, creating a connection between the host nation and the visiting sportspersons. Team Scotland, the tail of the pack, earned the biggest roar from the rapturous crowd.

From the mythical Loch Ness Monster, the legendary creature of Scottish freshwater folklore, to the “Voice of Time” symbolised by the Glasgow clock; from Nathan Evans’ sizzling show to the eye-catching dance of Glaswegians at Glasgow Central; from showcasing the city’s historic prowess in shipbuilding, textiles, locomotives and steam engines to singer Callum Beattie’s remarkable rendition of ‘Yes Sir, I Can Boogie’, the Opening Ceremony had it all.

Singer Nina Nesbitt produced a stirring performance of the 1988 Scottish classic ‘I’m Gonna Be (500 Miles)’, transporting those gathered to that period. 

Donald Rukare, President of Commonwealth Sport, and George Black, Chair of Glasgow 2026, explained how the Games belonged to the people.

King Charles officially declared the Games open. 

Published on Jul 24, 2026

#CWG #Opening #Ceremony #Glasgow #glows #celebration #present #future">CWG 2026 Opening Ceremony: Glasgow glows in celebration of past, present and future

The past and the present converged in a dazzling celebration of culture even as team spirit and the joy of sportsmanship came alive at the Commonwealth Games Opening Ceremony at the Hydro here on Thursday.

It was an unforgettable evening as Scotland’s rich traditions blended seamlessly with a top-class, cutting-edge spectacle, offering a visual and musical treat to a packed audience. 

Against a backdrop of native folk/modern melodies and vibrant performances by a range of artists, history and modernity shook hands in a riveting theatre, underlining why Glasgow remains one of the finest hosts and keeps building on the success of the 2014 Commonwealth edition.

The Ceremony began with a journey through Scotland’s heritage. Track cyclist Sir Chris Hoy, regarded as the nation’s greatest sporting icon, and Scottish actor Greg McHugh appeared magically from the LED screen to the stage through the TARDIS box, accompanied by King Charles and Queen Camilla.

ALSO READ: How boxer Lovlina Borgohain confirmed India’s first medal at CWG Glasgow 2026 before opening ceremony

The TARDIS, a tribute to the legendary British science-fiction series Doctor Who, became a storytelling device for the memorable occasion.

But the moment that truly captured the spirit of the Commonwealth Games was the athletes’ parade. For the parade, the classic-modern soundtrack, created by Scottish electronic folk Valtos was spectacular; the duo collaborating with artists from Scotland and across the Commonwealth.

As the 74 Commonwealth Games associations marched into the arena, each one of them received an introduction on the LED screen. The Commonwealth baton was brought alive through colourful animations inspired by Scotland’s native flora, creating a connection between the host nation and the visiting sportspersons. Team Scotland, the tail of the pack, earned the biggest roar from the rapturous crowd.

From the mythical Loch Ness Monster, the legendary creature of Scottish freshwater folklore, to the “Voice of Time” symbolised by the Glasgow clock; from Nathan Evans’ sizzling show to the eye-catching dance of Glaswegians at Glasgow Central; from showcasing the city’s historic prowess in shipbuilding, textiles, locomotives and steam engines to singer Callum Beattie’s remarkable rendition of ‘Yes Sir, I Can Boogie’, the Opening Ceremony had it all.

Singer Nina Nesbitt produced a stirring performance of the 1988 Scottish classic ‘I’m Gonna Be (500 Miles)’, transporting those gathered to that period. 

Donald Rukare, President of Commonwealth Sport, and George Black, Chair of Glasgow 2026, explained how the Games belonged to the people.

King Charles officially declared the Games open. 

Published on Jul 24, 2026

#CWG #Opening #Ceremony #Glasgow #glows #celebration #present #future

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