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Peace prize to Trump makes a mockery of FIFA Human Rights Policy: Australia midfielder Irvine Australia midfielder Jackson Irvine says football’s credibility ​as a force for good has been undermined by the game’s global governing body, accusing FIFA of making a mockery of its Human ‌Rights Policy.In an interview with Reuters, Irvine took aim at FIFA’s decision to give its inaugural ​Peace Prize to U.S. President Donald Trump at the World Cup draw in December for “promoting peace and ⁠unity around the world”.The U.S., which is co-hosting the World Cup with Canada and Mexico, launched a military strike on Venezuela a month after the draw and began joint airstrikes with Israel on Iran on February 28.“As an organisation, you would have to say decisions like ‌the one that we saw awarding this peace prize makes a mockery of what they’re trying to do with the human rights charter and trying to use football as a global driving force for good ‌and positive change in the world,” Irvine said. Jackson Irvine (right) has earned 80 caps for Australia and also captained the team on multiple occassions. | Photo Credit: Getty Images Jackson Irvine (right) has earned 80 caps for Australia and also captained the team on multiple occassions. | Photo Credit: Getty Images “Decisions like that feel like they just set us back in ‌the ⁠perceived market of what football currently is, especially at the top level where it’s becoming so disconnected ⁠from society and the grassroots of what the game actually is and means in our communities and in the world.”FIFA and the White House did not provide immediate comment.Human rights groups and activists have widely condemned the awarding of the Peace Prize to Trump. Norway’s football federation on Monday called for ​FIFA to abolish it to avoid being drawn ‌into politics.STATEMENT OF PROTESTFIFA published its first Human Rights Policy in 2017. Its Human Rights Framework for the 2026 World Cup includes provisions for host cities to promote inclusion, protect freedom of expression and prohibit discrimination during the June 11 to July 19 tournament.However, rights groups have said FIFA needs to do more to press the U.S. to address ‌the risks of human rights abuses for athletes, fans and workers, pointing to a hardline immigration crackdown and ​deportation drive pursued by the Trump administration.Irvine, who has earned 80 caps for Australia and captained the team, plays in the German Bundesliga for St. Pauli, a club renowned for its progressive culture.The ⁠33-year-old has long been vocal about human rights concerns and was a driving force in the Australian team’s statement of protest against Qatar’s human rights record before the 2022 World Cup.Irvine and 15 other Australia players raised concerns in a video about migrant ‌worker conditions in Qatar and called for decriminalisation of same-sex relationships in the Gulf nation. Players have used World Cups as a platform to promote various causes, including anti-racism and gender equality. | Photo Credit: REUTERS Players have used World Cups as a platform to promote various causes, including anti-racism and gender equality. | Photo Credit: REUTERS Four years on, Irvine has similar concerns about human rights in the United States and the treatment of LGBT groups and other communities.“It’s not an issue just in the Middle East, in America we’re seeing more and more of the rights of these communities … being taken away all over the country,” he said.“We have to sincerely hope that we see a lot of open support in that space as well.”Players have used World Cups as a platform to promote various causes, including anti-racism and gender equality, but FIFA bans political, ‌religious and personal slogans and imagery from team equipment.FIFA blocked the captains of seven European teams from wearing rainbow armbands on the field during ​the 2022 tournament to protest Qatar’s laws against same-sex relationships.Players at the 2023 Women’s World Cup in Australia and New Zealand were given a choice of eight FIFA-sanctioned armbands to promote social causes like ⁠gender equality, inclusion and anti-violence.FIFA has not confirmed whether players will be offered sanctioned armbands for the upcoming World Cup and did ⁠not provide immediate comment when asked by Reuters.Irvine said he hoped armbands and other symbols for advocacy would be welcomed at the tournament, and that players would be given leeway to express themselves. Jackson Irvine plays in the German Bundesliga for St. Pauli, a club renowned for its progressive culture. | Photo Credit: REUTERS Jackson Irvine plays in the German Bundesliga for St. Pauli, a club renowned for its progressive culture. | Photo Credit: REUTERS However, he said he ‌would also understand if athletes were wary about the potential blowback for making a stand.“You’ve got a group who are unbelievably supportive and really love to see people in these positions speak up about issues that they care about,” ​he said.“And on the other side, the opposite, the polarisation has gone further. People really actively dislike players trying to bring politics into sport.”Published on Apr 28, 2026 #Peace #prize #Trump #mockery #FIFA #Human #Rights #Policy #Australia #midfielder #Irvine

Peace prize to Trump makes a mockery of FIFA Human Rights Policy: Australia midfielder Irvine

Australia midfielder Jackson Irvine says football’s credibility ​as a force for good has been undermined by the game’s global governing body, accusing FIFA of making a mockery of its Human ‌Rights Policy.

In an interview with Reuters, Irvine took aim at FIFA’s decision to give its inaugural ​Peace Prize to U.S. President Donald Trump at the World Cup draw in December for “promoting peace and ⁠unity around the world”.

The U.S., which is co-hosting the World Cup with Canada and Mexico, launched a military strike on Venezuela a month after the draw and began joint airstrikes with Israel on Iran on February 28.

“As an organisation, you would have to say decisions like ‌the one that we saw awarding this peace prize makes a mockery of what they’re trying to do with the human rights charter and trying to use football as a global driving force for good ‌and positive change in the world,” Irvine said.

Peace prize to Trump makes a mockery of FIFA Human Rights Policy: Australia midfielder Irvine Australia midfielder Jackson Irvine says football’s credibility ​as a force for good has been undermined by the game’s global governing body, accusing FIFA of making a mockery of its Human ‌Rights Policy.In an interview with Reuters, Irvine took aim at FIFA’s decision to give its inaugural ​Peace Prize to U.S. President Donald Trump at the World Cup draw in December for “promoting peace and ⁠unity around the world”.The U.S., which is co-hosting the World Cup with Canada and Mexico, launched a military strike on Venezuela a month after the draw and began joint airstrikes with Israel on Iran on February 28.“As an organisation, you would have to say decisions like ‌the one that we saw awarding this peace prize makes a mockery of what they’re trying to do with the human rights charter and trying to use football as a global driving force for good ‌and positive change in the world,” Irvine said. Jackson Irvine (right) has earned 80 caps for Australia and also captained the team on multiple occassions. | Photo Credit: Getty Images Jackson Irvine (right) has earned 80 caps for Australia and also captained the team on multiple occassions. | Photo Credit: Getty Images “Decisions like that feel like they just set us back in ‌the ⁠perceived market of what football currently is, especially at the top level where it’s becoming so disconnected ⁠from society and the grassroots of what the game actually is and means in our communities and in the world.”FIFA and the White House did not provide immediate comment.Human rights groups and activists have widely condemned the awarding of the Peace Prize to Trump. Norway’s football federation on Monday called for ​FIFA to abolish it to avoid being drawn ‌into politics.STATEMENT OF PROTESTFIFA published its first Human Rights Policy in 2017. Its Human Rights Framework for the 2026 World Cup includes provisions for host cities to promote inclusion, protect freedom of expression and prohibit discrimination during the June 11 to July 19 tournament.However, rights groups have said FIFA needs to do more to press the U.S. to address ‌the risks of human rights abuses for athletes, fans and workers, pointing to a hardline immigration crackdown and ​deportation drive pursued by the Trump administration.Irvine, who has earned 80 caps for Australia and captained the team, plays in the German Bundesliga for St. Pauli, a club renowned for its progressive culture.The ⁠33-year-old has long been vocal about human rights concerns and was a driving force in the Australian team’s statement of protest against Qatar’s human rights record before the 2022 World Cup.Irvine and 15 other Australia players raised concerns in a video about migrant ‌worker conditions in Qatar and called for decriminalisation of same-sex relationships in the Gulf nation. Players have used World Cups as a platform to promote various causes, including anti-racism and gender equality. | Photo Credit: REUTERS Players have used World Cups as a platform to promote various causes, including anti-racism and gender equality. | Photo Credit: REUTERS Four years on, Irvine has similar concerns about human rights in the United States and the treatment of LGBT groups and other communities.“It’s not an issue just in the Middle East, in America we’re seeing more and more of the rights of these communities … being taken away all over the country,” he said.“We have to sincerely hope that we see a lot of open support in that space as well.”Players have used World Cups as a platform to promote various causes, including anti-racism and gender equality, but FIFA bans political, ‌religious and personal slogans and imagery from team equipment.FIFA blocked the captains of seven European teams from wearing rainbow armbands on the field during ​the 2022 tournament to protest Qatar’s laws against same-sex relationships.Players at the 2023 Women’s World Cup in Australia and New Zealand were given a choice of eight FIFA-sanctioned armbands to promote social causes like ⁠gender equality, inclusion and anti-violence.FIFA has not confirmed whether players will be offered sanctioned armbands for the upcoming World Cup and did ⁠not provide immediate comment when asked by Reuters.Irvine said he hoped armbands and other symbols for advocacy would be welcomed at the tournament, and that players would be given leeway to express themselves. Jackson Irvine plays in the German Bundesliga for St. Pauli, a club renowned for its progressive culture. | Photo Credit: REUTERS Jackson Irvine plays in the German Bundesliga for St. Pauli, a club renowned for its progressive culture. | Photo Credit: REUTERS However, he said he ‌would also understand if athletes were wary about the potential blowback for making a stand.“You’ve got a group who are unbelievably supportive and really love to see people in these positions speak up about issues that they care about,” ​he said.“And on the other side, the opposite, the polarisation has gone further. People really actively dislike players trying to bring politics into sport.”Published on Apr 28, 2026 #Peace #prize #Trump #mockery #FIFA #Human #Rights #Policy #Australia #midfielder #Irvine

Jackson Irvine (right) has earned 80 caps for Australia and also captained the team on multiple occassions. | Photo Credit: Getty Images

lightbox-info

Jackson Irvine (right) has earned 80 caps for Australia and also captained the team on multiple occassions. | Photo Credit: Getty Images

“Decisions like that feel like they just set us back in ‌the ⁠perceived market of what football currently is, especially at the top level where it’s becoming so disconnected ⁠from society and the grassroots of what the game actually is and means in our communities and in the world.”

FIFA and the White House did not provide immediate comment.

Human rights groups and activists have widely condemned the awarding of the Peace Prize to Trump. Norway’s football federation on Monday called for ​FIFA to abolish it to avoid being drawn ‌into politics.

STATEMENT OF PROTEST

FIFA published its first Human Rights Policy in 2017. Its Human Rights Framework for the 2026 World Cup includes provisions for host cities to promote inclusion, protect freedom of expression and prohibit discrimination during the June 11 to July 19 tournament.

However, rights groups have said FIFA needs to do more to press the U.S. to address ‌the risks of human rights abuses for athletes, fans and workers, pointing to a hardline immigration crackdown and ​deportation drive pursued by the Trump administration.

Irvine, who has earned 80 caps for Australia and captained the team, plays in the German Bundesliga for St. Pauli, a club renowned for its progressive culture.

The ⁠33-year-old has long been vocal about human rights concerns and was a driving force in the Australian team’s statement of protest against Qatar’s human rights record before the 2022 World Cup.

Irvine and 15 other Australia players raised concerns in a video about migrant ‌worker conditions in Qatar and called for decriminalisation of same-sex relationships in the Gulf nation.

Players have used World Cups as a platform to promote various causes, including anti-racism and gender equality.

Players have used World Cups as a platform to promote various causes, including anti-racism and gender equality. | Photo Credit: REUTERS

lightbox-info

Players have used World Cups as a platform to promote various causes, including anti-racism and gender equality. | Photo Credit: REUTERS

Four years on, Irvine has similar concerns about human rights in the United States and the treatment of LGBT groups and other communities.

“It’s not an issue just in the Middle East, in America we’re seeing more and more of the rights of these communities … being taken away all over the country,” he said.

“We have to sincerely hope that we see a lot of open support in that space as well.”

Players have used World Cups as a platform to promote various causes, including anti-racism and gender equality, but FIFA bans political, ‌religious and personal slogans and imagery from team equipment.

FIFA blocked the captains of seven European teams from wearing rainbow armbands on the field during ​the 2022 tournament to protest Qatar’s laws against same-sex relationships.

Players at the 2023 Women’s World Cup in Australia and New Zealand were given a choice of eight FIFA-sanctioned armbands to promote social causes like ⁠gender equality, inclusion and anti-violence.

FIFA has not confirmed whether players will be offered sanctioned armbands for the upcoming World Cup and did ⁠not provide immediate comment when asked by Reuters.

Irvine said he hoped armbands and other symbols for advocacy would be welcomed at the tournament, and that players would be given leeway to express themselves.

Jackson Irvine plays in the German Bundesliga for St. Pauli, a club renowned for its progressive culture.

Jackson Irvine plays in the German Bundesliga for St. Pauli, a club renowned for its progressive culture. | Photo Credit: REUTERS

lightbox-info

Jackson Irvine plays in the German Bundesliga for St. Pauli, a club renowned for its progressive culture. | Photo Credit: REUTERS

However, he said he ‌would also understand if athletes were wary about the potential blowback for making a stand.

“You’ve got a group who are unbelievably supportive and really love to see people in these positions speak up about issues that they care about,” ​he said.

“And on the other side, the opposite, the polarisation has gone further. People really actively dislike players trying to bring politics into sport.”

Published on Apr 28, 2026

#Peace #prize #Trump #mockery #FIFA #Human #Rights #Policy #Australia #midfielder #Irvine

Sports news

Australia midfielder Jackson Irvine says football’s credibility ​as a force for good has been undermined by the game’s global governing body, accusing FIFA of making a mockery of its Human ‌Rights Policy.

In an interview with Reuters, Irvine took aim at FIFA’s decision to give its inaugural ​Peace Prize to U.S. President Donald Trump at the World Cup draw in December for “promoting peace and ⁠unity around the world”.

The U.S., which is co-hosting the World Cup with Canada and Mexico, launched a military strike on Venezuela a month after the draw and began joint airstrikes with Israel on Iran on February 28.

“As an organisation, you would have to say decisions like ‌the one that we saw awarding this peace prize makes a mockery of what they’re trying to do with the human rights charter and trying to use football as a global driving force for good ‌and positive change in the world,” Irvine said.

Jackson Irvine (right) has earned 80 caps for Australia and also captained the team on multiple occassions.
| Photo Credit:
Getty Images

lightbox-info

Jackson Irvine (right) has earned 80 caps for Australia and also captained the team on multiple occassions.
| Photo Credit:
Getty Images

“Decisions like that feel like they just set us back in ‌the ⁠perceived market of what football currently is, especially at the top level where it’s becoming so disconnected ⁠from society and the grassroots of what the game actually is and means in our communities and in the world.”

FIFA and the White House did not provide immediate comment.

Human rights groups and activists have widely condemned the awarding of the Peace Prize to Trump. Norway’s football federation on Monday called for ​FIFA to abolish it to avoid being drawn ‌into politics.

STATEMENT OF PROTEST

FIFA published its first Human Rights Policy in 2017. Its Human Rights Framework for the 2026 World Cup includes provisions for host cities to promote inclusion, protect freedom of expression and prohibit discrimination during the June 11 to July 19 tournament.

However, rights groups have said FIFA needs to do more to press the U.S. to address ‌the risks of human rights abuses for athletes, fans and workers, pointing to a hardline immigration crackdown and ​deportation drive pursued by the Trump administration.

Irvine, who has earned 80 caps for Australia and captained the team, plays in the German Bundesliga for St. Pauli, a club renowned for its progressive culture.

The ⁠33-year-old has long been vocal about human rights concerns and was a driving force in the Australian team’s statement of protest against Qatar’s human rights record before the 2022 World Cup.

Irvine and 15 other Australia players raised concerns in a video about migrant ‌worker conditions in Qatar and called for decriminalisation of same-sex relationships in the Gulf nation.

Players have used World Cups as a platform to promote various causes, including anti-racism and gender equality.

Players have used World Cups as a platform to promote various causes, including anti-racism and gender equality.
| Photo Credit:
REUTERS

lightbox-info

Players have used World Cups as a platform to promote various causes, including anti-racism and gender equality.
| Photo Credit:
REUTERS

Four years on, Irvine has similar concerns about human rights in the United States and the treatment of LGBT groups and other communities.

“It’s not an issue just in the Middle East, in America we’re seeing more and more of the rights of these communities … being taken away all over the country,” he said.

“We have to sincerely hope that we see a lot of open support in that space as well.”

Players have used World Cups as a platform to promote various causes, including anti-racism and gender equality, but FIFA bans political, ‌religious and personal slogans and imagery from team equipment.

FIFA blocked the captains of seven European teams from wearing rainbow armbands on the field during ​the 2022 tournament to protest Qatar’s laws against same-sex relationships.

Players at the 2023 Women’s World Cup in Australia and New Zealand were given a choice of eight FIFA-sanctioned armbands to promote social causes like ⁠gender equality, inclusion and anti-violence.

FIFA has not confirmed whether players will be offered sanctioned armbands for the upcoming World Cup and did ⁠not provide immediate comment when asked by Reuters.

Irvine said he hoped armbands and other symbols for advocacy would be welcomed at the tournament, and that players would be given leeway to express themselves.

Jackson Irvine plays in the German Bundesliga for St. Pauli, a club renowned for its progressive culture.

Jackson Irvine plays in the German Bundesliga for St. Pauli, a club renowned for its progressive culture.
| Photo Credit:
REUTERS

lightbox-info

Jackson Irvine plays in the German Bundesliga for St. Pauli, a club renowned for its progressive culture.
| Photo Credit:
REUTERS

However, he said he ‌would also understand if athletes were wary about the potential blowback for making a stand.

“You’ve got a group who are unbelievably supportive and really love to see people in these positions speak up about issues that they care about,” ​he said.

“And on the other side, the opposite, the polarisation has gone further. People really actively dislike players trying to bring politics into sport.”

Published on Apr 28, 2026

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Deadspin | Nuggets scratch Aaron Gordon (calf) for Game 5 <div id=""><section id="0" class=" w-full"><div class="xl:container mx-0 !px-4 py-0 pb-4 !mx-0 !px-0"><img src="https://images.deadspin.com/tr:w-900/28814918.jpg" srcset="https://images.deadspin.com/tr:w-900/28814918.jpg" alt="NBA: Denver Nuggets at Minnesota Timberwolves" class="w-full" fetchpriority="high" loading="eager"/><span class="text-0.8 leading-tight">Apr 25, 2026; Minneapolis, Minnesota, USA; Minnesota Timberwolves guard Bones Hyland (8) shoots by the defense of Denver Nuggets forward Aaron Gordon (32) in the second quarter at Target Center. Mandatory Credit: Matt Blewett-Imagn Images<!-- --> <!-- --> </span></div></section><section id="section-1"> <p>The Denver Nuggets will be looking to avoid elimination in Game 5 against the Minnesota Timberwolves without key contributor Aaron Gordon due to his injured calf.</p> </section><section id="section-2"> <p>The team ruled Gordon out Monday evening ahead of the game in Denver. Minnesota leads the first-round NBA playoff series three games to one, following Saturday’s 112-96 win. In that game, Gordon played but was visibly limited in his movement. He finished 4-of-11 shooting from the field, including 1 of 5 from 3-point range in scoring 9 points.</p> </section><section id="section-3"> <p>The 12-year veteran sustained the injury in Game 2 of the series and did not play in Game 3. </p> </section><br/><section id="section-4"> <p>Gordon had season averages of 16.2 points, 5.8 rebounds and 2.7 assists per game. </p> </section> <section id="section-5"> <p>Neither team will be at full strength Monday, as the Timberwolves will be without guard Donte DiVincenzo who suffered a season-ending torn Achilles tendon in Game 4 as well as All-Star Anthony Edwards, who sustained a hyperextended knee and bone bruise in that same contest.</p> </section><section id="section-6"> <p>Edwards will be week-to-week should Minnesota advance. </p> </section><section id="section-7"> <p>–Field Level Media</p> </section></div> #Deadspin #Nuggets #scratch #Aaron #Gordon #calf #Game

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England captain Nat Sciver-Brunt was tightlipped about selection ahead of her side’s opening match at the ICC Women’s T20 World Cup 2026 against Sri Lanka on Friday.

The tournament host has used a variety of players during its warm-up fixtures for the T20 World Cup and poses a wealth of riches in most departments with good depth in the spin bowling ranks and a bevy of quality batting options at the top of the order.

ENG-W vs SL-W: Head-to-head in T20Is

Played: 12

England: 10

Sri Lanka: 2

What that means in terms of selection for the opening match of the T20 World Cup in Edgbaston on Friday remains to be seen and Sciver-Brunt was giving nothing away when asked about the make-up of her side for the clash with Sri Lanka.

The all-rounder has already confirmed she will play purely as a batter as she returns to full fitness following a calf concern, while the England skipper also suggested it would be unlikely that the side will use all three of its left-arm spin options – Sophie Ecclestone, Linsey Smith and Tilly Corteen-Coleman – in the same XI.

But where that leaves all-rounders Freya Kemp and Dani Gibson remains unanswered, while there is also plenty to ponder for the England captain at the top of the batting order with Danni Wyatt-Hodge, Amy Jones, Alice Capsey and Sophia Dunkley all jostling for positions.

“We have a squad of 15 players, all of whom could be part of our XI,” Sciver-Brunt said on Thursday at the pre-match press conference.

“Selecting that final XI is hard and there’ll be some disappointed people because everybody so far in the summer has put their hand up with different performances at different times.

ENG-W vs SL-W: Head-to-head record in Women’s T20 World Cups

Played: 2

England: 2

Sri Lanka: 0

“We know that we’ll need to call upon every one of those 15 people during this tournament. It’s not just about the XI. And I suppose that makes for some tough conversations and I’m sure some disappointed people.”

Sri Lanka looks relatively more settled after ending its warm-up run unbeaten with wins over the Netherlands and Pakistan.

Experienced skipper Chamari Athapaththu will once again be the lynchpin for Sri Lanka against England as the veteran gears up for her 10th appearance at the T20 World Cup having previously featured at every edition of the tournament since its inception in 2009

And Athapaththu enters the opening contest quietly confident her side can cause an upset, with the Sri Lanka captain embracing the tag of underdogs given all the pressure and focus will be on their opponents.

“The game is very important game for both the teams, but we are coming with underdog tag because we need to earn something,” Athapaththu said.

“But I know England have a little bit pressure because they’re playing in their home condition and first game and with a lot of expectation. 

“And most of the England people are coming here for cheering for them. 

“I feel some kind of pressure they have. So we don’t have that kind of pressure. 

“So we just need to play our fearless cricket. And if we can play our best cricket tomorrow, I know we can change and make — we can make history.”

SQUADS

England squad: Nat Sciver-Brunt (c), Lauren Bell, Alice Capsey, Tilly Corteen-Coleman, Charlie Dean, Sophia Dunkley, Sophie Ecclestone, Lauren Filer, Dani Gibson, Amy Jones, Freya Kemp, Heather Knight, Linsey Smith, Issy Wong, Danni Wyatt-Hodge

Sri Lanka squad: Chamari Athapaththu (c), Hasini Perera, Vishmi Gunarathne, Harshitha Samarawickrama, Imesha Dulani, Nilakshika Silva, Kaveesha Dilhari, Hansima Karunarathne, Kaushini Nuthyangana, Sugandika Dassanayaka, Nimasha Madushani, Kawya Kavindi, Malki Madara, Mithali Ayodhya, Chethana Vimukthi

Published on Jun 12, 2026

#England #Sri #Lanka #Womens #T20 #World #Cup #Preview #Headtohead #record #squads #playing #news">England vs Sri Lanka, Women’s T20 World Cup 2026: Preview, Head-to-head record, squads, playing XI news England captain Nat Sciver-Brunt was tightlipped about selection ahead of her side’s opening match at the ICC Women’s T20 World Cup 2026 against Sri Lanka on Friday.The tournament host has used a variety of players during its warm-up fixtures for the T20 World Cup and poses a wealth of riches in most departments with good depth in the spin bowling ranks and a bevy of quality batting options at the top of the order. ENG-W vs SL-W: Head-to-head in T20Is Played: 12 England: 10 Sri Lanka: 2 What that means in terms of selection for the opening match of the T20 World Cup in Edgbaston on Friday remains to be seen and Sciver-Brunt was giving nothing away when asked about the make-up of her side for the clash with Sri Lanka.The all-rounder has already confirmed she will play purely as a batter as she returns to full fitness following a calf concern, while the England skipper also suggested it would be unlikely that the side will use all three of its left-arm spin options – Sophie Ecclestone, Linsey Smith and Tilly Corteen-Coleman – in the same XI.But where that leaves all-rounders Freya Kemp and Dani Gibson remains unanswered, while there is also plenty to ponder for the England captain at the top of the batting order with Danni Wyatt-Hodge, Amy Jones, Alice Capsey and Sophia Dunkley all jostling for positions.“We have a squad of 15 players, all of whom could be part of our XI,” Sciver-Brunt said on Thursday at the pre-match press conference.“Selecting that final XI is hard and there’ll be some disappointed people because everybody so far in the summer has put their hand up with different performances at different times. ENG-W vs SL-W: Head-to-head record in Women’s T20 World Cups Played: 2 England: 2 Sri Lanka: 0 “We know that we’ll need to call upon every one of those 15 people during this tournament. It’s not just about the XI. And I suppose that makes for some tough conversations and I’m sure some disappointed people.”Sri Lanka looks relatively more settled after ending its warm-up run unbeaten with wins over the Netherlands and Pakistan.Experienced skipper Chamari Athapaththu will once again be the lynchpin for Sri Lanka against England as the veteran gears up for her 10th appearance at the T20 World Cup having previously featured at every edition of the tournament since its inception in 2009And Athapaththu enters the opening contest quietly confident her side can cause an upset, with the Sri Lanka captain embracing the tag of underdogs given all the pressure and focus will be on their opponents.“The game is very important game for both the teams, but we are coming with underdog tag because we need to earn something,” Athapaththu said.“But I know England have a little bit pressure because they’re playing in their home condition and first game and with a lot of expectation. “And most of the England people are coming here for cheering for them. “I feel some kind of pressure they have. So we don’t have that kind of pressure. “So we just need to play our fearless cricket. And if we can play our best cricket tomorrow, I know we can change and make — we can make history.” SQUADS England squad: Nat Sciver-Brunt (c), Lauren Bell, Alice Capsey, Tilly Corteen-Coleman, Charlie Dean, Sophia Dunkley, Sophie Ecclestone, Lauren Filer, Dani Gibson, Amy Jones, Freya Kemp, Heather Knight, Linsey Smith, Issy Wong, Danni Wyatt-Hodge Sri Lanka squad: Chamari Athapaththu (c), Hasini Perera, Vishmi Gunarathne, Harshitha Samarawickrama, Imesha Dulani, Nilakshika Silva, Kaveesha Dilhari, Hansima Karunarathne, Kaushini Nuthyangana, Sugandika Dassanayaka, Nimasha Madushani, Kawya Kavindi, Malki Madara, Mithali Ayodhya, Chethana Vimukthi Published on Jun 12, 2026 #England #Sri #Lanka #Womens #T20 #World #Cup #Preview #Headtohead #record #squads #playing #news

Deadspin | GM pledges that star Cale Makar will finish his career with Avalanche May 11, 2026; Saint Paul, Minnesota, USA; Colorado Avalanche defenseman Cale Makar (8) looks on during the second period in game four of the second round of the 2026 Stanley Cup Playoffs against the Minnesota Wild at Grand Casino Arena. Mandatory Credit: Matt Krohn-Imagn Images The Colorado Avalanche want to sign star defenseman Cale Makar to a contract extension so he completes his career with the team, president of hockey operations and general manager Joe Sakic said on Thursday. Makar, 27, is eligible to sign an extension on July 1 to his six-year, million contract that runs through the 2026-27 season. He has played his entire career with the Avalanche, who selected him fourth overall in the 2017 NHL Draft. “Cale is going to finish his career here,” Sakic said. “We’re already talking to his agent, so we’re confident that something’s going to get worked out at some point. I mean, he’s got another year, but this summer we expect to have him signed.” A two-time winner of the Norris Trophy as the NHL’s top defenseman, Makar totaled 79 points (20 goals, 59 assists) and a plus-32 rating in 75 games this season. He was a finalist for the sixth consecutive year and fell just short on Tuesday to first-time winner Zach Werenski of the Columbus Blue Jackets. Makar added five points (four goals, one assist) and a plus-5 rating in 11 playoff games while dealing with an upper-body injury. He has 507 career points (136 goals, 371 assists), a plus-168 rating, 134 penalty minutes, 664 blocks and 377 hits in 470 regular-season games. He has 26 goals and 90 points with a plus-28 rating, 24 penalty minutes, 147 blocks and 100 hits in 90 playoff games. Makar was awarded the Conn Smythe Trophy as most valuable player of the Stanley Cup playoffs in the 2021-22 season. A three-time All-Star, Makar was Calder Memorial Trophy winner as NHL Rookie of the Year in 2019-20 and top defenseman in 2021-22 and 2024-25. The Avalanche won the Presidents’ Trophy this season with the league’s best record (55-16-11, 121 points), then eliminated the Los Angeles Kings in four games and the Minnesota Wild in five before getting swept by the Vegas Golden Knights in the Western Conference finals. Sakic, who previously had served as Avalanche general manager before becoming president of hockey operations, took over as GM earlier this month when Chris MacFarland became president and GM of the Nashville Predators. Sakic on Thursday said the coaching staff is staying intact, including head coach Jared Bednar, who is going into the final season of his contract. Bednar, 54, has coached the team for 10 regular seasons (445-262-75) and nine playoff runs (60-41), including capturing the Stanley Cup in 2022. “He’s got the confidence from the players,” Sakic said. “It’s clear from everybody, from players, the staff, that he’s the right guy. They respect him, they love playing for him, and that’s a big thing. And when we look at it for this group, he’s the best coach. He’s the best coach for the group, and we’re confident in that decision. “He’s not just the coach, I mean, he’s the voice of the of the organization, and, like I said, the players really believe in him, and I’m going with the players.” –Field Level Media #Deadspin #pledges #star #Cale #Makar #finish #career #AvalancheMay 11, 2026; Saint Paul, Minnesota, USA; Colorado Avalanche defenseman Cale Makar (8) looks on during the second period in game four of the second round of the 2026 Stanley Cup Playoffs against the Minnesota Wild at Grand Casino Arena. Mandatory Credit: Matt Krohn-Imagn Images

The Colorado Avalanche want to sign star defenseman Cale Makar to a contract extension so he completes his career with the team, president of hockey operations and general manager Joe Sakic said on Thursday.

Makar, 27, is eligible to sign an extension on July 1 to his six-year, $54 million contract that runs through the 2026-27 season. He has played his entire career with the Avalanche, who selected him fourth overall in the 2017 NHL Draft.

“Cale is going to finish his career here,” Sakic said. “We’re already talking to his agent, so we’re confident that something’s going to get worked out at some point. I mean, he’s got another year, but this summer we expect to have him signed.”

A two-time winner of the Norris Trophy as the NHL’s top defenseman, Makar totaled 79 points (20 goals, 59 assists) and a plus-32 rating in 75 games this season. He was a finalist for the sixth consecutive year and fell just short on Tuesday to first-time winner Zach Werenski of the Columbus Blue Jackets.

Makar added five points (four goals, one assist) and a plus-5 rating in 11 playoff games while dealing with an upper-body injury.

He has 507 career points (136 goals, 371 assists), a plus-168 rating, 134 penalty minutes, 664 blocks and 377 hits in 470 regular-season games. He has 26 goals and 90 points with a plus-28 rating, 24 penalty minutes, 147 blocks and 100 hits in 90 playoff games.


Makar was awarded the Conn Smythe Trophy as most valuable player of the Stanley Cup playoffs in the 2021-22 season.

A three-time All-Star, Makar was Calder Memorial Trophy winner as NHL Rookie of the Year in 2019-20 and top defenseman in 2021-22 and 2024-25.

The Avalanche won the Presidents’ Trophy this season with the league’s best record (55-16-11, 121 points), then eliminated the Los Angeles Kings in four games and the Minnesota Wild in five before getting swept by the Vegas Golden Knights in the Western Conference finals.

Sakic, who previously had served as Avalanche general manager before becoming president of hockey operations, took over as GM earlier this month when Chris MacFarland became president and GM of the Nashville Predators.

Sakic on Thursday said the coaching staff is staying intact, including head coach Jared Bednar, who is going into the final season of his contract. Bednar, 54, has coached the team for 10 regular seasons (445-262-75) and nine playoff runs (60-41), including capturing the Stanley Cup in 2022.

“He’s got the confidence from the players,” Sakic said. “It’s clear from everybody, from players, the staff, that he’s the right guy. They respect him, they love playing for him, and that’s a big thing. And when we look at it for this group, he’s the best coach. He’s the best coach for the group, and we’re confident in that decision.

“He’s not just the coach, I mean, he’s the voice of the of the organization, and, like I said, the players really believe in him, and I’m going with the players.”


–Field Level Media

#Deadspin #pledges #star #Cale #Makar #finish #career #Avalanche">Deadspin | GM pledges that star Cale Makar will finish his career with Avalanche May 11, 2026; Saint Paul, Minnesota, USA; Colorado Avalanche defenseman Cale Makar (8) looks on during the second period in game four of the second round of the 2026 Stanley Cup Playoffs against the Minnesota Wild at Grand Casino Arena. Mandatory Credit: Matt Krohn-Imagn Images The Colorado Avalanche want to sign star defenseman Cale Makar to a contract extension so he completes his career with the team, president of hockey operations and general manager Joe Sakic said on Thursday. Makar, 27, is eligible to sign an extension on July 1 to his six-year, million contract that runs through the 2026-27 season. He has played his entire career with the Avalanche, who selected him fourth overall in the 2017 NHL Draft. “Cale is going to finish his career here,” Sakic said. “We’re already talking to his agent, so we’re confident that something’s going to get worked out at some point. I mean, he’s got another year, but this summer we expect to have him signed.” A two-time winner of the Norris Trophy as the NHL’s top defenseman, Makar totaled 79 points (20 goals, 59 assists) and a plus-32 rating in 75 games this season. He was a finalist for the sixth consecutive year and fell just short on Tuesday to first-time winner Zach Werenski of the Columbus Blue Jackets. Makar added five points (four goals, one assist) and a plus-5 rating in 11 playoff games while dealing with an upper-body injury. He has 507 career points (136 goals, 371 assists), a plus-168 rating, 134 penalty minutes, 664 blocks and 377 hits in 470 regular-season games. He has 26 goals and 90 points with a plus-28 rating, 24 penalty minutes, 147 blocks and 100 hits in 90 playoff games. Makar was awarded the Conn Smythe Trophy as most valuable player of the Stanley Cup playoffs in the 2021-22 season. A three-time All-Star, Makar was Calder Memorial Trophy winner as NHL Rookie of the Year in 2019-20 and top defenseman in 2021-22 and 2024-25. The Avalanche won the Presidents’ Trophy this season with the league’s best record (55-16-11, 121 points), then eliminated the Los Angeles Kings in four games and the Minnesota Wild in five before getting swept by the Vegas Golden Knights in the Western Conference finals. Sakic, who previously had served as Avalanche general manager before becoming president of hockey operations, took over as GM earlier this month when Chris MacFarland became president and GM of the Nashville Predators. Sakic on Thursday said the coaching staff is staying intact, including head coach Jared Bednar, who is going into the final season of his contract. Bednar, 54, has coached the team for 10 regular seasons (445-262-75) and nine playoff runs (60-41), including capturing the Stanley Cup in 2022. “He’s got the confidence from the players,” Sakic said. “It’s clear from everybody, from players, the staff, that he’s the right guy. They respect him, they love playing for him, and that’s a big thing. And when we look at it for this group, he’s the best coach. He’s the best coach for the group, and we’re confident in that decision. “He’s not just the coach, I mean, he’s the voice of the of the organization, and, like I said, the players really believe in him, and I’m going with the players.” –Field Level Media #Deadspin #pledges #star #Cale #Makar #finish #career #Avalanche

The 2026 FIFA World Cup gets underway later today, when host nation Mexico takes on South Africa in the opening match.

Here is a full list of the referees, assistant referees, and video referees at the 2026 FIFA World Cup.

Who are the head referees at the 2026 World Cup?

52 referees were selected for the 2026 World Cup. The majority of them, 15 in all, are from UEFA countries. That includes Szymon Marciniak from Poland, who was the referee for the 2022 World Cup Final.

This list includes 12 referees from CONMEBOL and nine from CONCACAF. New Zealand’s Campbell-Kirk Kawana-Waugh is the lone OAF referee.

This list also includes Omar Abdulkadir Artan from Somalia, who was denied entry into the United States. While Canadian politicians have offered that he could referee matches in Canada, at the time of publication it is unclear if that will be arranged.

Who are the assistant referees at the 2026 World Cup?

All told, 88 referees were selected as assistant referees for the 2026 FIFA World Cup. All six confederations are represented.

12 of the assistant referees come from the AFC, while 11 come from the CAF. CONCACAF has 15 assistant referees at the 2026 FIFA World Cup, including four from the United States (Corey Parker, Kyle Atkins, Kathryn Nesbitt, and Brooke Mayo), two from Canada, and three from Mexico.

Once again UEFA has the most assistant referees, with 29, while Isaac Trevis is the lone representative from the OFC.

Who are the VAR officials for the 2026 World Cup?

As such, FIFA has assigned 30 video match officials for this year’s World Cup. Five confederations are represented here, as OAF does not have a video match official for the 2026 World Cup.

#referee #selected #FIFA #World #Cup">Every referee selected for the 2026 FIFA World Cup The 2026 FIFA World Cup gets underway later today, when host nation Mexico takes on South Africa in the opening match.Here is a full list of the referees, assistant referees, and video referees at the 2026 FIFA World Cup.Who are the head referees at the 2026 World Cup?52 referees were selected for the 2026 World Cup. The majority of them, 15 in all, are from UEFA countries. That includes Szymon Marciniak from Poland, who was the referee for the 2022 World Cup Final.This list includes 12 referees from CONMEBOL and nine from CONCACAF. New Zealand’s Campbell-Kirk Kawana-Waugh is the lone OAF referee.This list also includes Omar Abdulkadir Artan from Somalia, who was denied entry into the United States. While Canadian politicians have offered that he could referee matches in Canada, at the time of publication it is unclear if that will be arranged.Who are the assistant referees at the 2026 World Cup?All told, 88 referees were selected as assistant referees for the 2026 FIFA World Cup. All six confederations are represented.12 of the assistant referees come from the AFC, while 11 come from the CAF. CONCACAF has 15 assistant referees at the 2026 FIFA World Cup, including four from the United States (Corey Parker, Kyle Atkins, Kathryn Nesbitt, and Brooke Mayo), two from Canada, and three from Mexico.Once again UEFA has the most assistant referees, with 29, while Isaac Trevis is the lone representative from the OFC.Who are the VAR officials for the 2026 World Cup?As such, FIFA has assigned 30 video match officials for this year’s World Cup. Five confederations are represented here, as OAF does not have a video match official for the 2026 World Cup. #referee #selected #FIFA #World #Cup

2026 FIFA World Cup gets underway later today, when host nation Mexico takes on South Africa in the opening match.

Here is a full list of the referees, assistant referees, and video referees at the 2026 FIFA World Cup.

Who are the head referees at the 2026 World Cup?

52 referees were selected for the 2026 World Cup. The majority of them, 15 in all, are from UEFA countries. That includes Szymon Marciniak from Poland, who was the referee for the 2022 World Cup Final.

This list includes 12 referees from CONMEBOL and nine from CONCACAF. New Zealand’s Campbell-Kirk Kawana-Waugh is the lone OAF referee.

This list also includes Omar Abdulkadir Artan from Somalia, who was denied entry into the United States. While Canadian politicians have offered that he could referee matches in Canada, at the time of publication it is unclear if that will be arranged.

Who are the assistant referees at the 2026 World Cup?

All told, 88 referees were selected as assistant referees for the 2026 FIFA World Cup. All six confederations are represented.

12 of the assistant referees come from the AFC, while 11 come from the CAF. CONCACAF has 15 assistant referees at the 2026 FIFA World Cup, including four from the United States (Corey Parker, Kyle Atkins, Kathryn Nesbitt, and Brooke Mayo), two from Canada, and three from Mexico.

Once again UEFA has the most assistant referees, with 29, while Isaac Trevis is the lone representative from the OFC.

Who are the VAR officials for the 2026 World Cup?

As such, FIFA has assigned 30 video match officials for this year’s World Cup. Five confederations are represented here, as OAF does not have a video match official for the 2026 World Cup.

#referee #selected #FIFA #World #Cup">Every referee selected for the 2026 FIFA World Cup

The 2026 FIFA World Cup gets underway later today, when host nation Mexico takes on South Africa in the opening match.

Here is a full list of the referees, assistant referees, and video referees at the 2026 FIFA World Cup.

Who are the head referees at the 2026 World Cup?

52 referees were selected for the 2026 World Cup. The majority of them, 15 in all, are from UEFA countries. That includes Szymon Marciniak from Poland, who was the referee for the 2022 World Cup Final.

This list includes 12 referees from CONMEBOL and nine from CONCACAF. New Zealand’s Campbell-Kirk Kawana-Waugh is the lone OAF referee.

This list also includes Omar Abdulkadir Artan from Somalia, who was denied entry into the United States. While Canadian politicians have offered that he could referee matches in Canada, at the time of publication it is unclear if that will be arranged.

Who are the assistant referees at the 2026 World Cup?

All told, 88 referees were selected as assistant referees for the 2026 FIFA World Cup. All six confederations are represented.

12 of the assistant referees come from the AFC, while 11 come from the CAF. CONCACAF has 15 assistant referees at the 2026 FIFA World Cup, including four from the United States (Corey Parker, Kyle Atkins, Kathryn Nesbitt, and Brooke Mayo), two from Canada, and three from Mexico.

Once again UEFA has the most assistant referees, with 29, while Isaac Trevis is the lone representative from the OFC.

Who are the VAR officials for the 2026 World Cup?

As such, FIFA has assigned 30 video match officials for this year’s World Cup. Five confederations are represented here, as OAF does not have a video match official for the 2026 World Cup.

#referee #selected #FIFA #World #Cup

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