Pickleball is a fast-growing sport that combines elements of tennis, badminton, ping-pong, and table tennis. It is played with a pickleball paddle and a lightweight plastic ball on a court with a low net. Ever since its inception, the game has been played by many people, with most of them finding the sport easy and interactive to play. Today, the sport is even popular among adults.

Pickleball can be played by people of all ages and skill levels, making it a great way to stay active and healthy. So, what are some of the health benefits you can get from this sport? Here are the top 7 for your consideration:

1. Improves Cardiovascular Health

One of the most significant health benefits of playing pickleball paddles is that it improves cardiovascular health. Pickleball is an aerobic exercise that requires constant movement, which increases heart rate and improves circulation.

The game also involves quick bursts of movement and changes in direction, which help to improve agility and balance. Regular pickleball play can help reduce the risk of heart disease, stroke, and high blood pressure.

Read Also | Is it Hard to Become a Professional Pickleball Player? 

2. Improved Bone Health

Pickleball is a weight-bearing activity, which means that it helps improve bone density and prevent osteoporosis. The sport also requires quick movements and changes in direction, which can help improve balance and coordination.

3. Reduces Stress

Playing pickleball can also help to reduce stress levels. Exercise has been shown to release endorphins, which are natural mood boosters that help to reduce stress and anxiety. It is a social sport that provides opportunities for social interaction and can help to reduce feelings of isolation and loneliness.

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4. Enhances Flexibility and Range of Motion

Pickleball involves a lot of stretching and reaching, which can help to improve flexibility and range of motion. The sport requires players to move their arms, legs, and torso in different directions, which can help to increase flexibility in these areas.

Regular pickleball play can also help to improve overall joint mobility and prevent injuries.

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5. Weight Loss

Pickleball is a great way to burn calories and lose weight. According to the American Council on Exercise, playing pickleball can burn up to 400 calories per hour. Regular pickleball play, combined with a healthy diet, can help promote weight loss and improve overall health.

6. Builds Muscle Strength

Playing pickleball involves using a lot of different muscles, including those in the arms, legs, and core.

Regular play can help to build muscle strength, which can improve overall physical health and reduce the risk of injury. Strong muscles can also help to improve posture and balance, which can reduce the risk of falls and other injuries.

Read Also | Navigating the Court: A Comprehensive Pickleball Rule Guide 

7. Improves Mental Health

In addition to the physical health benefits, playing pickleball can also have a positive impact on mental health. Exercise has been shown to improve mood and reduce symptoms of depression and anxiety. Pickleball is a fun and engaging sport that can help reduce stress and promote feelings of happiness and well-being.

Pickleball is an excellent way to improve overall health and well-being. Whether you are looking to improve cardiovascular health, bone health, or joint health, or looking for a fun way to stay active, pickleball has something to offer.

After a disappointing 2-0 clean sweep defeat against South Africa, Team India is all set to begin their three-match ODI series against the Proteas beginning on November 30. The series comes at a time when India are dealing with key injury setbacks at the top of their white-ball setup. 

Newly appointed ODI captain Shubman Gill, who was slated to lead the side for the first time in the format, has been ruled out after injuring his neck during the first Test in Kolkata. Vice-captain Shreyas Iyer also continues his recovery from the injury he suffered on India’s tour of Australia, leaving the leadership group temporarily depleted. In their absence, the responsibility of leading the team returns to KL Rahul, who last captained India in the 2023 ODI series against South Africa, a contest India won 2–1. 

So, before the India vs South Africa ODI series to begin, let's take a look at the result of every ODI series between India and South Africa.

Also Read: India under Gautam Gambhir coaching

India vs South Africa: Head-to-head stats in ODIs

The ODI format has been very competitive between these two teams. South Africa has been stronger in one-day cricket with more wins overall. Both teams have played exciting cricket in World Cups and bilateral series. South Africa is known for their strong ODI team, while India has also had great success in this format.

Out of 94 matches total, South Africa has won 51, while India has won 40 matches. This shows South Africa’s edge in ODI cricket.

India vs South Africa: Last encounter in ODI

The last encounter between India and South Africa in an ODI was during the three-match ODI series in 2023 in Paarl, South Africa.

Sanju Samson hit a fine century as India defeated South Africa by 78 runs in the third ODI to clinch the series. Sent into bat, India lost both the openers early before Samson (108 off 114 balls), which was his maiden ODI hundred, and Tilak Varma (52 off 77 balls) made useful contributions to take 296 for eight. Rinku Singh (38 off 27) also chipped in for the visitors.

Chasing 297, opener Tony de Zorzi made 81 off 87 balls but none of the other Proteas batter could support him as the hosts were bowled for 218 in 45.5 overs. For India, Arshdeep Singh (4/30), Washington Sundar (2/38) and Avesh Khan (2/45) were the main wicket takers.

Also Read: Every India vs South Africa Test Series Results

India vs South Africa: Full Series Results

The fourth season of the Women's Premier League (WPL) is set to begin with an auction in Delhi on November 27. The full schedule for the upcoming season will be released immediately following the auction. It is confirmed that the entire tournament will be played in January 2026. Vadodara and Navi Mumbai could be the potential host cities for this mega event.

Also Read: WPL 2026 Auction Details: 277 players to enter auction, 73 slots vacant

The tournament's first mega auction

In the inaugural season in 2023, RCB Women acquired Smriti Mandhana for a whopping ₹3.40 crore (340 million rupees). Nat Sciver-Brunt, who plays for MI Women, was also purchased for ₹3.20 crore (320 million rupees). The tournament's first mega auction will take place in 2026. It will be interesting to see if any player sells for a higher price than RCB captain Smriti Mandhana. Therefore, it's important to know when and what time the WPL 2026 auction will be live streamed.

Auction rules

Each team will be allowed to build a squad of up to 18 players. In all, 73 slots - including 23 overseas spots - are available to be filled across the five teams. For the first time, the WPL auction rules allow the franchises the use up to five Right to Match (RTM) options, depending on the number of retentions, to buy back a player who was part of their squad in 2025.

Teams that retained fewer players will have more RTM options and a larger purse going into the mega auction. All teams will have a combined purse of INR 41.1 crore to spend at the auction.

Remaining purse for each team

Also Read: Indian Cricket Team's upcoming schedule (men and women)

When will the WPL 2026 auction start?

The WPL 2026 auction will take place on Thursday, November 27.

How many teams will participate in the WPL 2026 auction?

In just three seasons, the WPL has transformed into one of the biggest women’s T20 leagues globally, now valued higher than Pakistan’s PSL. Five teams - Royal Challengers Bengaluru Women, Mumbai Indians Women, Delhi Capitals Women, UP Warriorz and Gujarat Giants Women will participate in the WPL 2026 auction.

What time will the WPL 2026 auction start?

The WPL 2026 auction will begin at 3:30 PM IST.

Which TV channels will broadcast the WPL 2026 auction live in India?

Indian fans will be able to watch the WPL 2026 auction live on TV on Star Sports Network channels.

How to watch live-streaming of the WPL 2026 auction in India?

Live-streaming of the WPL 2026 auction will be available on the JioHotstar app and its official website.

After winning the T20 World Cup last year, in July, the Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI) appointed Gautam Gambhir as the head coach of the Indian team in place of Rahul Dravid. Since then India have won seven Tests, lost 10 and drawn two under Gautam Gambhir coaching. Again all focus has shifted to him once again after the team's embarrassing defeat in the second Test by 408 runs under his coaching as South Africa completed a 2-0 clean sweep at the ACA Stadium in Guwahati on Wednesday. India were bowled out for 140 runs in their second innings while chasing the 548-run target. After this, India endured its second home Test series defeat under head coach Gautam Gambhir.

Also Read: Rishabh Pant vs MS Dhoni: Comparison in Test cricket

Fifth Test defeat at home in the last nine games

The team is in bad shape under Gambhir's coaching as India is going through a challenging transition phase, this was their fifth Test defeat at home in the last nine games. Under Gambhir, India witnessed a new low last year when they lost a Test series for the first time in 12 years after New Zealand thrashed them 3-0. The defeat was also first for India at home under new skipper Shubman Gill, who took over the captaincy role following the retirements of Rohit Sharma and Virat Kohli.

India lost to Sri Lanka after 18 years

Last year, in July-August, the Indian team went on a tour of Sri Lanka. This was India's first series after Gautam Gambhir became the coach. After winning the T20 World Cup, India's youth team had reached Sri Lanka.

India then had to face 0-2 defeat in the ODI series. After 18 years, the Indian team had lost to Sri Lanka in a bilateral series.

Embarrassing defeat in front of New Zealand

When the New Zealand came to India last year, everyone must have felt in the beginning that by winning this series easily, we will present a strong claim for the World Test Championship final.

On the contrary, India lost 0-3 in this series. This was the first time since 2012 that India lost a Test series at home. New Zealand not only defeated India but also whitewashed them.

Also Read: Most five-wicket hauls in Test cricket by an Indian bowler

Lost Border Gavaskar Trophy after 10 years

Team India had been winning the Border Gavaskar Trophy continuously for the last 10 years. They defeated the Kangaroos in four consecutive series. During this period, Australia was defeated twice at their own home. India also got the good fortune of defeating Australia in Gabba after almost 30 years.

Now this victory chariot of India has broken under the coaching of Gautam Gambhir. The last time Australia won the Test series against India was in the year 2014-15.

Let's take a look at India's result under Gautam Gambhir's coaching.

India's T20I record under Gautam Gambhir coaching

Matches: 26, Won: 20, Lost: 3, NR: 3

• Sri Lanka vs India (3 T20Is): India won 2-0
• India vs Bangladesh (3 T20Is): India won by 3-0
• South Africa vs India (4 T20Is): India won by 3-1
• India vs England (5 T20Is): India won by 4-1
• Asia Cup 2025 (6 T20Is): India won Asia Cup by beating Pakistan in the final
• Australia vs India (5 T20Is): India won 2-1

India's ODI record under Gautam Gambhir coaching

Matches: 14, Won: 9, Lost: 4, NR: 1

• Sri Lanka vs India (3 ODIs): India lost 0-2
• India vs England (3 ODIs): India won 3-0
• ICC Champions Trophy 2025 (5 ODIs): India won CT 2025 by beating New Zealand in the final
• Australia vs India (3 ODIs): India lost 1-2

India's Test record under Gautam Gambhir coaching

Matches: 18, Won: 7, Lost: 9, NR: 2

• India vs Bangladesh (2 Tests): India won 2-0
• India vs New Zealand (3 Tests): India lost 0-3
• Australia vs India (5 Tests): India lost 1-3
• England vs India (5 Tests): Series Drawn by 2-2
• India vs West Indies (2 Tests): India won 2-0
• India vs South Africa (2 Tests): India lost 0-2

Cristiano Ronaldo and Lionel Messi have all punished Premier League clubs over the years. Despite Messi having never played in England's top-flight, the Paris Saint-Germain star has still strutted his stuff against opposition from across the Channel during Champions League ties.

Meanwhile, Ronaldo played over 50 times more against the Premier League’s ‘big six’ than Messi. He played in a grand total of eight Premier League campaigns across his two stints with Manchester United.

Also Read: The Midnight Football Economy: How Premier League Weekends Drive Malaysian Nightlife

However, despite both Ballon d'Or winners having proven themselves against the best that the Premier League has had to offer, some fans still doubt that Messi would cut it on English shores.

Messi vs Ronaldo - who is the GOAT? It is the biggest conundrum in football since the 'Diego Maradona or Pele?' debate. So who really is the greatest of all time? Never mind who you prefer, we will take a look at how the pair actually shape up against the big six clubs so you can be fully armed with facts in the eternal argument. 

Also Read: El-Clasico stats since Messi left Barcelona

Messi vs Ronaldo | Records compare against big six English clubs

1. Manchester United

Cristiano Ronaldo:

• Games: 5
• Goals: 3
• Assists: 0
• Goals + assists: 0
• Penalties: 0
• Free-kicks: 0
• Minutes per goal: 122 
• Minutes per non-penalty goal: 122 
• Minutes per goal or assist: 122 

Lionel Messi:

• Games: 6
• Goals: 4
• Assists: 0
• Goals + assists: 4
• Penalties: 0
• Free-kicks: 0
• Minutes per goal: 128
• Minutes per non-penalty goal: 128
• Minutes per goal or assist: 128

2. Manchester City

Cristiano Ronaldo:

• Games: 15
• Goals: 5
• Assists: 1
• Goals + assists: 6
• Penalties: 1
• Free-kicks: 1
• Minutes per goal: 229
• Minutes per non-penalty goal: 287
• Minutes per goal or assist: 191

Lionel Messi:

• Games: 8
• Goals: 7
• Assists: 2
• Goals + assists: 9
• Penalties: 1
• Free-kicks: 0
• Minutes per goal: 102 
• Minutes per non-penalty goal: 120 
• Minutes per goal or assist: 80

3. Arsenal

Cristiano Ronaldo:

• Games: 18
• Goals: 9
• Assists: 1
• Goals + assists: 10
• Penalties: 2
• Free-kicks: 1
• Minutes per goal: 173
• Minutes per non-penalty goal: 223
• Minutes per goal or assist: 156

Lionel Messi:

• Games: 6
• Goals: 9
• Assists: 1
• Goals + assists: 10
• Penalties: 2
• Free-kicks: 0
• Minutes per goal: 59 
• Minutes per non-penalty goal: 76 
• Minutes per goal or assist: 53

4. Liverpool

Cristiano Ronaldo:

• Games: 14
• Goals: 3
• Assists: 1
• Goals + assists: 4
• Penalties: 1
• Free-kicks: 0
• Minutes per goal: 378
• Minutes per non-penalty goal: 568
• Minutes per goal or assist: 284

Lionel Messi:

• Games: 4
• Goals: 2
• Assists: 0
• Goals + assists: 2
• Penalties: 0
• Free-kicks: 1
• Minutes per goal: 180 
• Minutes per non-penalty goal: 180 
• Minutes per goal or assist: 180

5. Chelsea

Cristiano Ronaldo:

• Games: 17
• Goals: 2
• Assists: 2
• Goals + assists: 4
• Penalties: 0
• Free-kicks: 0
• Minutes per goal: 667
• Minutes per non-penalty goal: 667
• Minutes per goal or assist: 333

Lionel Messi:

• Games: 10
• Goals: 3
• Assists: 3
• Goals + assists: 6
• Penalties: 0
• Free-kicks: 0
• Minutes per goal: 278 
• Minutes per non-penalty goal: 278 
• Minutes per goal or assist: 139

6. Tottenham

Cristiano Ronaldo:

• Games: 20
• Goals: 14
• Assists: 4
• Goals + assists: 18
• Penalties: 4
• Free-kicks: 0
• Minutes per goal: 107
• Minutes per non-penalty goal: 150
• Minutes per goal or assist: 83

Lionel Messi:

• Games: 2
• Goals: 2
• Assists: 0
• Goals + assists: 2
• Penalties: 0
• Free-kicks: 0
• Minutes per goal: 58 
• Minutes per non-penalty goal: 58 
• Minutes per goal or assist: 58

Messi vs Ronaldo | Overall Stats

Cristiano Ronaldo

• Games: 89
• Goals: 36
• Assists: 9
• Goals + assists: 45
• Penalties: 8
• Free-kicks: 2
• Minutes per goal: 195
• Minutes per non-penalty goal: 251
• Minutes per goal or assist: 156

Lionel Messi

• Games: 36
• Goals: 27
• Assists: 6
• Goals + assists: 33
• Penalties: 3
• Free-kicks: 1
• Minutes per goal: 114 
• Minutes per non-penalty goal: 128 
• Minutes per goal or assist: 93

South African all-rounder Marco Jansen continued his dream Test match in the India vs South Africa 2nd Test in Guwahati as he followed up a brilliant 93-ball 91 with a destructive spell of fast bowling that shattered the Indian batting lineup. Jansen finished with figures of 6/48, putting South Africa in complete control while also entering a series of elite statistical lists. His six-wicket haul is also now one of the best by a South African fast bowler in India, ranking behind Lance Klusener’s 8/64 in Kolkata in 1996 and Dale Steyn’s 7/51 in Nagpur in 2010.

In this article, we will take a look at the best figures for a left arm pacer against India in India in Tests.

Also Read: India under Gautam Gambhir coaching

Best figures for a left arm pacer against India in India in Tests

4. Marco Jansen (SA), Guwahati, 2025 | 6/48*

As mentioned, Jansen is the latest entrant on this elite list. He is the only other left-arm pacer with a Test six-fer in India. According to stats, Jansen now has the third-best innings figures for a South African pacer in Tests in India. He also became the third left-arm pacer to record a Test fifer in India since 1988.

3. Alan Davidson (AUS), Kanpur, 1959 | 7/93

Two decades before the aforementioned match, India claimed a similar win over Australia at the same venue. This time, the Aussies were bowled out for 105 in an attempt to chase down 225. However, Alan Davidson kept Australia alive by taking seven wickets in the second innings. His 7/93 (57.3 overs) bowled India out for 291. The former seamer earlier took a fifer.

2. Geoff Dymock (AUS), Kanpur, 1979 | 7/67

The second spot is occupied by the former Australian pacer Geoff Dymock. Although Australia lost the Test by 153 runs, Dymock's second-innings seven-wicket haul entered the record books. The former left-arm seamer, who took a fifer in the first innings, followed it up with a record 7/67 in the second. However, Australia perished for 125 while chasing 279.

Also Read: Rishabh Pant vs MS Dhoni: Comparison in Test cricket

1. John Lever (ENG), Delhi, 1976 | 7/46

England's John Lever tops this elite list of best figures for a left arm pacer against India in India in Tests. England tean, led by Tony Greig, hammered India in the 1976 Delhi Test by an innings and 25 runs. Dennis Amiss's historic 179 powered England to 381 in their only innings. India, who received a follow-on, perished for 122 and 234. The first innings was marked by John Lever's brilliance as he took seven wickets for 46 runs (23 overs).