QUICKREADS

Bigger, better, bolder: PVL goes global in brand-new season but 'it's just a start', says Tuhin Mishra
The Prime Volleyball League returned for a brand-new season on February 4 with a team from Mumbai being added to the roster, and a significant tie-up with the FIVB, the volleyball world body. Hindustan Times talked to Tuhin Mishra, the co-founder of Baseline Ventures and PVL's co-promoter.

Tennis-Swiatek defends coach and psychologist despite disappointing results
Iga Swiatek, the Polish world number two, has not won a tournament in nearly a year but defends her coach and psychologist amid challenging times. After a semi-final loss at the Madrid Open, Swiatek emphasizes personal growth and the increasing competition in women's tennis. She maintains a positive outlook on her performance and her team's support, dismissing claims of a mental crisis.

Warriors' Game 7 win drives big numbers for surging NBA ratings
The Golden State Warriors' Game 7 win over the Houston Rockets drew 6.63 million viewers, the highest for a first-round NBA playoff game on TNT since 2009. This victory was the third-most watched of the first round, surpassing other games, as overall viewership for the playoffs increased 6% compared to last year. The Warriors will face the Timberwolves next.

Soccer-Barca coach Flick fumes over refereeing decisions in defeat at Inter
Barcelona manager Hansi Flick expressed frustration over refereeing decisions following their 4-3 loss to Inter Milan, which prevented them from reaching the Champions League final. Despite a late comeback, Inter equalized and scored the winner in extra time. Flick criticized the referee's controversial calls but praised his team's efforts, as they shift focus to LaLiga and an upcoming match against Real Madrid.

Padres star CF Jackson Merrill (hamstring) returns from injury
San Diego Padres center fielder Jackson Merrill was activated from the injured list after missing 24 games due to a hamstring injury. Merrill, who signed a nine-year, $135 million contract extension, expressed excitement to return, having previously hit .378 in 10 games this season. Padres manager Mike Shildt praised his successful rehab. Second baseman Jake Cronenworth is also nearing a return.

Soccer-Inter's Inzaghi wouldn't swap his players for anyone after Barca thriller
Inter Milan triumphed over Barcelona 4-3 in a dramatic Champions League semi-final, securing their spot in the final after a thrilling 120 minutes. Manager Simone Inzaghi praised his players and acknowledged Barcelona's strength, while substitute Davide Frattesi scored the decisive goal. Inzaghi emphasized the team's determination and resilience, highlighting the exceptional performances from both sides.

Trump vows 'seamless' experience for 2026 World Cup fans
President Trump assured that global soccer fans are welcome at the 2026 World Cup, despite concerns about immigration policies. He promised a "seamless" experience for visitors, with support from the US government. FIFA President Infantino expressed confidence in the administration, while officials prepare for an influx of international visitors, emphasizing the importance of compliance with visa regulations.

Motor racing-Dominant McLaren sure to attract more scrutiny, says Horner
McLaren's dominance in Formula One, winning five of six races, has led to increased scrutiny from rivals, particularly Red Bull's Christian Horner. Concerns about their tire management have arisen, but team boss Zak Brown insists they are operating within regulations. Mercedes' Toto Wolff acknowledges McLaren's superior performance and emphasizes the need for his team to improve their own tire management strategies.

GTA 6: From Jason and Lucia to Cal, every character revealed so far
GTA 6 reveals protagonists Jason and Lucia, struggling survivors in Leonida. Trailer showcases diverse characters like Cal, Boobie, and Dre'Quan, highlighting criminal underworld dynamics in Vice City, set for 2026 release.

GTA 6 trailer: Why Stephen Root, Bobby Moynihan and Jack Black rumors might be true
GTA 6 trailer sparks fan speculation about potential voice actors Stephen Root, Bobby Moynihan, and Jack Black, with viewers claiming to recognize their voices and likenesses despite no official confirmation from Rockstar Games.

Teenager Anahat ready for senior world squash debut
17-year-old Anahat Singh, India's top-ranked squash player, prepares for her senior World Squash Championships debut. With nine PSA titles and multiple junior achievements, she aims to compete well, focusing on gaining experience and potentially qualifying for the 2028 Olympics.

Tyra Caterina Grant back in Italy hoping to follow Jannik Sinner as the country's next tennis star
Tyra Caterina Grant, a 17-year-old tennis player and three-time junior Grand Slam doubles champion, has switched her nationality from the United States to Italy, aiming to follow in Jannik Sinner's footsteps. Raised in Italy, she feels more connected to Italian culture and will compete in the Italian Open. Grant is currently ranked No. 335 by the WTA.

Railways beat RCF, Kapurthala to win hockey meet
Chandigarh's Railways clinched the 6th Arjan Singh Memorial hockey tournament title, defeating Rail Coach Factory, Kapurthala 3-1 in a tie-breaker after a 1-1 draw. The event, held from April 29 to May 6, featured 12 teams, including a Bangladesh Air Force side. Chief guest Air Marshal P K Ghosh praised the tournament for enhancing hockey standards and sportsmanship.

College football powers Notre Dame, Clemson agree to 12-year scheduling agreement from 2027 to 2038
Notre Dame and Clemson have announced a 12-year home-and-home football scheduling agreement, set to begin in 2027 and run through 2038. The teams, which have a competitive history, will alternate hosting games annually. Clemson leads the series 5-3, with notable matchups since 2015, including a College Football Playoff semifinal victory in 2018.

Tennis-Kvitova gets winning feeling again after maternity comeback
Former Wimbledon champion Petra Kvitova secured her first victory since returning to tennis after childbirth, defeating Romania's Irina-Camelia Begu 7-5, 6-1 at the Italian Open. The 35-year-old had struggled in her comeback, losing her first four matches. Kvitova expressed her doubts about returning but now embraces the joy of playing again, focusing on enjoying the experience.

PSG's Ousmane Dembele fit to face Arsenal in Champions League semi-final
Paris Saint-Germain forward Ousmane Dembele has recovered from a hamstring injury and will play in the Champions League semi-final second leg against Arsenal, according to coach Luis Enrique. Dembele, who scored in the first leg, missed a recent Ligue 1 match but returned to training and is fit for the upcoming game.