Natasha Everitt

Tarona Taafaki won Tuvalu's first Commonwealth Games medal after receiving a bronze in the women's 75kg boxing division despite losing her semifinal to India's Lovlina Borgohain. She advanced via a bye, and the five-entrant competition rules awarded bronze to each semifinalist. Taafaki's father and coach, Badi Taafaki, said the achievement was hugely significant for the small Pacific nation, where athletes train with limited facilities, including on an airport runway. He also highlighted Tuvalu's severe coastal erosion and the threat posed by climate change.

Joe Root says he intends to retain the strongest elements of England's Bazball approach while adapting the team’s style after returning as Test captain. Reappointed following Ben Stokes' retirement and the arrival of coach Stephen Fleming, Root argues that his experience since leaving the captaincy in 2022 has made him a different leader. He is particularly enthusiastic about working with Fleming and will begin his second spell in charge during England’s three-Test series against Pakistan.

Negotiations are progressing for Chris Eubank Jr to fight in Nigeria in December, according to Balmoral Promotions founder Ezekiel Adamu. Eubank visited Lagos in June to assess the proposed event, meet sponsors and seek government support following his November defeat by Conor Benn. Balmoral is also exploring future Nigerian appearances by fighters including Deontay Wilder, Fabio Wardley and Daniel Dubois, while a dispute remains over whether Eubank is a free agent or under a long-term Boxxer contract.

Luke Littler said his unprecedented 2026 clean sweep of major PDC titles remains achievable after winning the World Matchplay in Blackpool with a tournament average of 111.04, surpassing Phil Taylor's previous record. The 19-year-old has won every PDC title available to him so far this year and is now focused on qualifying for the Players Championship Finals and other remaining events. At the unveiling of a large mural in his hometown of Warrington, Littler signed the artwork, met fans and played darts, while also confirming he will take a two-week holiday in Orlando before returning to Pro Tour action in Leicester.

St Helens prop George Delaney will miss the rest of the 2026 Super League season after suffering a shoulder injury during the club’s 38–16 defeat by Wigan Warriors. The 22-year-old underwent surgery and had established himself as a key player, making 20 appearances and scoring two tries. He is also two games short of 100 appearances for St Helens. The club is supporting his recovery, while interim head coach Eamon O’Carroll prepares the team for a crucial run-in as St Helens seek to avoid missing the play-offs for the first time in Super League history.