Pakistan all-rounder Shadab Khan has received warm congratulations from his Big Bash League franchise Sydney Thunder after being named in Pakistan’s squad for the upcoming T20I series against Sri Lanka, scheduled for January 2026. Currently plying his trade for Sydney Thunder in the Big Bash League, Shadab is set to depart for national duty after featuring in Thunder’s fixture against the Hobart Hurricanes on January 4, a franchise spokesperson confirmed. The spokesperson added that the all-rounder will return in time for the high-profile Sydney Smash at the Sydney Cricket Ground on January 16 and will remain available for the rest of the BBL season, even if Thunder advance to the final. Shadab has enjoyed a productive campaign so far, scoring 100 runs at an average of 33.33 while picking up six wickets, making him Thunder’s leading wicket-taker this season. Reacting to his national call-up, Shadab said it was a proud moment to once again represent Pakistan. He praised his stint with Sydney Thunder, describing the experience as “fantastic,” and said he was eager to rejoin the side later in the tournament. “I’m honoured to be selected for Pakistan and grateful for the support from Sydney Thunder,” Shadab said. “I’m really looking forward to coming back towards the end of the season and helping the team push for a place in the final.” Sydney Thunder General Manager Trent Copeland said representing one’s country is always special and expressed delight at Shadab earning another opportunity at international level. He wished the all-rounder success in the upcoming series and confirmed that the franchise would be ready to welcome him back for the crucial phase of the BBL campaign. Meanwhile, Thunder also revealed that discussions are at an advanced stage to secure a replacement overseas player during Shadab Khan’s absence.
Arshad Nadeem Honoured as Global Breakthrough Athlete at Dubai Sports Summit
Pakistan’s star javelin thrower Arshad Nadeem has added another prestigious honour to his rapidly growing list of achievements after being named Global Breakthrough Athlete at the Mohammed Bin Rashid Al Maktoum Global Sports Award during the World Sports Summit in Dubai. The two-day summit, held on December 29 and 30, brought together more than 1,500 athletes, sports administrators, policymakers, and global stakeholders under the theme “Uniting the World Through Sport.” The event focused on shaping the future of global sports through collaboration, innovation, and inclusivity. Nadeem’s recognition comes on the back of his historic performance at the Paris Olympics, where he clinched the gold medal with a stunning throw of 92.97 metres. The record-breaking effort not only crowned him Olympic champion but also ended Pakistan’s four-decade-long wait for an Olympic gold medal, making the moment one of the most celebrated milestones in the country’s sporting history. The award was presented by Sheikh Mansoor bin Muhammad bin Rashid Al Maktoum, highlighting the global recognition of Nadeem’s achievement and its wider impact beyond the athletics field. Pakistan’s javelin star Arshad Nadeem gets the Global Breakthrough Athlete award at the Global Sports Summit in Dubai. The prestigious honour was presented by Sheikh Mansoor bin Muhammad bin Rashid Al Maktoum, son of the Ruler of Dubai. A proud and historic moment on the world… pic.twitter.com/v9XtgSYw8P — Faizan Lakhani (@faizanlakhani) December 29, 2025 Reacting to the honour, Nadeem described the award as a moment of immense pride and gratitude. In a message shared on social media, he thanked the Dubai Sports Council for the invitation and warm hospitality, while also acknowledging the prayers and unwavering support he has received throughout his journey. He noted that such international recognition serves as motivation not only for himself but also for young athletes back home, expressing hope that his success will inspire the next generation to pursue sports professionally in Pakistan. Nadeem concluded by saying he felt proud to represent Pakistan on the global stage and to carry the country’s flag at such a prestigious international forum. The Mohammed Bin Rashid Al Maktoum Global Sports Award honours athletes and organisations whose performances and contributions leave a lasting impact on the world of sports.
Messi vs. Ronaldo Money Battle: Who Made More in 2025?
Lionel Messi and Cristiano Ronaldo’s rivalry has long stretched beyond goals and trophies to the question fans everywhere ask: who makes more money? In 2025, the answer became clearer than ever. According to Forbes’ 2025 rankings of the world’s highest-paid athletes, Cristiano Ronaldo earned far more than Lionel Messi, topping the list with an eye-watering total of about $275 million in earnings, while Messi earned around $135 million over the same period. Ronaldo’s massive haul was driven primarily by his gargantuan contract with Saudi Pro League club Al-Nassr, where he earns one of the richest salaries in sports history, reportedly more than $200 million annually when salary, bonuses and endorsements are combined. His status as the highest-paid athlete on the planet in 2025 reflects both his enduring popularity and the financial firepower of the league that has transformed global football economics. Messi, meanwhile, remained among the top-earning athletes worldwide despite trailing Ronaldo in total earnings. His reported $135 million in 2025 came from a mix of on-field earnings at Inter Miami and lucrative off-field deals, including endorsements and business ventures such as partnerships and his growing lifestyle brand. Off the pitch, both superstars have parlayed their fame into lucrative deals and investments. Ronaldo has reached a historic milestone by becoming the first football billionaire, a feat fueled not only by football wages but a sprawling enterprise of personal brands, commercial deals and real estate ventures. Messi’s income has likewise been boosted by long-term endorsements and investment successes, including ventures tied to consumer products and stake options in sports properties. Despite their advancing ages and shifts in playing careers, Messi and Ronaldo’s financial rivalry remains as compelling as their on-field battles. Their combined influence continues to redefine what it means to be a global sports icon in 2025, blending sporting excellence with commercial genius and cultural impact that resonates far beyond football.
Pakistan’s Olympic Champion Arshad Nadeem Takes Spotlight in Dubai
Pakistan’s Olympic javelin hero Arshad Nadeem is set to take centre stage in Dubai as he attends the inaugural World Sports Summit, where he will be presented with a special global honour recognising his impact on international sport. The summit, scheduled for late December in Dubai, brings together elite athletes, sports leaders, innovators, and policymakers to discuss the future of global sports, performance, and sustainability. Nadeem’s presence places Pakistan firmly on that global map, marking a rare moment when a homegrown athlete from track and field is celebrated alongside the world’s most recognisable sporting icons. Fresh off a historic season, Nadeem has become a symbol of resilience and excellence after delivering Pakistan its first-ever Olympic gold medal in athletics, setting a new Olympic record in the javelin throw along the way. His journey from modest training facilities in Punjab to the pinnacle of world sport has resonated far beyond stadiums, inspiring a new generation of athletes across South Asia. At the summit, Nadeem will share space with legendary figures from multiple disciplines, including UFC great Khabib Nurmagomedov, as well as renowned footballers, tennis champions, and Olympic icons. The gathering is expected to feature high-level conversations on athlete development, mental resilience, sports technology, and the evolving role of athletes as global influencers. The honour being bestowed on Nadeem is seen as recognition not just of a single Olympic moment, but of consistent excellence, discipline, and the ability to uplift a nation through sport. Officials close to the event describe the award as a celebration of athletes who redefine possibilities and inspire change beyond competition. Social media has already been buzzing with congratulatory messages, with fans praising Nadeem for carrying Pakistan’s flag onto one of the world’s most prestigious sports platforms. Many see his Dubai appearance as a turning point for Pakistani athletics, opening doors for greater international exposure, investment, and belief in disciplines outside cricket. As he prepares to receive the award, Arshad Nadeem’s story continues to evolve proving that world-class greatness can emerge from anywhere when talent meets determination.
Indonesia’s Gede Priandana Makes History With Five Wickets in a Single T20I Over
Indonesia fast bowler Gede Priandana created history by becoming the first player in men’s or women’s T20 International cricket to take five wickets in a single over, a remarkable feat achieved during the first T20I against Cambodia. The historic performance came at the Udayana Cricket Ground, where Indonesia secured a convincing 60-run victory after posting a total of 167 runs. Defending the target, the 28-year-old right-arm fast bowler turned the match on its head in the 16th over of Cambodia’s chase. At that stage, Cambodia were 106 for 5 after 15 overs and still very much in the contest. However, Priandana’s introduction into the attack proved decisive. He struck with his first three deliveries, claiming wickets on consecutive balls to complete a sensational hat-trick, dismissing Shah Abrar Hussain, Nirmaljit Singh, and Chanthon Rathnak. After delivering a dot ball, Priandana went on to remove Moung Dara Sok and Pel Venk, conceding just one wide in the over. Cambodia collapsed shortly thereafter, well short of the target. With this spell, Priandana etched his name into the record books as the first bowler in T20 International cricket history—across both men’s and women’s formats—to take five wickets in a single over where official fall-of-wicket records exist. Earlier in the match, Priandana also contributed with the bat, opening the innings alongside wicketkeeper-batter Dharma Kesuma, scoring six runs. Indonesia’s innings was anchored by a magnificent knock from Dharma Kesuma, who smashed an unbeaten 110 off 68 balls, including eight fours and six sixes, guiding the team to a competitive total of 167 runs. It is worth noting that while the feat of taking five wickets in an over has occurred twice in domestic men’s T20 cricket, this is the first time it has been achieved at the international level, making Priandana’s achievement truly historic.
