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Harry Brook Era Starts with Record-Breaking Win as England Crush West Indies

Jacob Bethell’s explosive debut and a dominant bowling display help England dismantle West Indies by 238 runs in ODI opener

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Jacob Bethell celebrates a fiery 82 on debut as England posts 400 and thrashes West Indies at Edgbaston.

England’s white-ball resurgence may have just found its new leader. In what can only be described as a dream debut for captain Harry Brook, the English side obliterated West Indies by 238 runs in the first One Day International (ODI) at Edgbaston, sending a powerful message of intent.

The newly appointed skipper led a fierce batting assault as England posted 400-8, their highest ODI score in three years and sixth overall 400+ total in the format. The highlight of the innings, however, came not from the experienced heads but from 20-year-old Jacob Bethell, who returned from the IPL to blaze 82 off just 53 balls in front of his home crowd in Birmingham.

With contributions flowing throughout the top order—Ben Duckett (60), Joe Root (57), Brook (58)—England became the first ODI team to see each of its first seven batters score at least 35 runs. While no player reached a century, the explosive consistency was more than enough to bury the West Indies’ hopes of a record chase.

The Caribbean side, who opted to bowl first expecting to benefit from humid conditions, were soon overwhelmed. England raced to 90 runs inside the first 10 overs, thanks to Duckett and debut opener Jamie Smith, who was dropped early but punished the West Indies with aggression.

West Indies’ only redeeming moments came through spectacular fielding, with Roston Chase, Brandon King, and Keacy Carty pulling off sensational catches that prevented a potentially larger total. But the brilliance ended there.

In reply, the Windies never looked comfortable. Saqib Mahmood tormented the top order, claiming 3 wickets for 32 runs, while Jamie Overton cleaned up the tail with 3 for 22. The highlight of the bowling effort was Brydon Carse’s stunning catch at the boundary, which dismissed captain Shai Hope and symbolically ended any resistance.

The visitors crumbled for just 162 in 26.2 overs, handing England a massive win and ending their seven-match losing streak in ODIs. The victory not only gives England a 1-0 lead in the three-match series but also signals a new dawn in their white-ball campaign after a disappointing 18-month stretch.

With the next clash set for Cardiff on Sunday, England will be eyeing their first bilateral ODI series win since September 2023. If this opening display was any indicator, Harry Brook’s captaincy era could not have started better.

Personality

Martin Zubimendi Net Worth in 2025 Revealed and It Might Surprise You

The Real Sociedad midfielder’s growing wealth reflects his rising influence in Spanish and European football

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Martin Zubimendi Net Worth in 2025 and His Future Earnings Potential
Spain and Real Sociedad midfielder Martin Zubimendi is seeing a sharp rise in net worth as his football career soars.

Martin Zubimendi has quietly become one of the most dependable midfielders in European football, and with his rise in prominence, his financial growth has followed closely behind. As of 2025, the Spanish international’s net worth is estimated to be around $8 million, according to multiple sources familiar with La Liga salary structures and endorsement valuations. This number is expected to rise sharply as bigger clubs circle and his reputation continues to grow.

Currently contracted to Real Sociedad, Zubimendi has been a pillar in their midfield and one of the most valued assets in the squad. His weekly wage is reportedly close to €60,000 (approximately $65,000), putting his annual earnings from salary alone well above the $3 million mark. That, combined with performance bonuses and loyalty clauses, forms the bulk of his on-field income. While he has yet to make a big-money move to a top-tier European giant like Barcelona or Manchester City—both of whom have been linked to him in recent transfer windows—his valuation has already crossed €50 million in the transfer market.



Off the pitch, Zubimendi has maintained a relatively modest profile, unlike some of his flashier counterparts. However, he has begun building a portfolio of smart investments, particularly in real estate around San Sebastián, and has shown interest in sustainable ventures and local community initiatives. While his brand endorsements are currently limited to a few regional campaigns and technical partnerships (including with Adidas), his recent starring role in Spain’s Nations League campaign could open the doors to global deals.

At just 25, Zubimendi’s best playing years are still ahead of him. Experts believe a marquee transfer or a standout performance in the upcoming 2026 FIFA World Cup could double his current net worth. His financial advisors reportedly favor a long-term growth model, focusing on stability over flash, which mirrors his on-field demeanor—calm, intelligent, and in control.

For fans of Spanish football and smart midfield play, Martin Zubimendi is already a gem. For analysts and brand managers, he’s an emerging asset. With consistency in performance and a professional attitude, it’s only a matter of time before his net worth climbs into double-digit millions—a fitting figure for a player already proving he belongs among Europe’s elite.

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Soccer

Cristiano Ronaldo Lifts Portugal to Glory Again as Spain Falls in Dramatic Nations League Final

A 40-year-old Ronaldo scores, sheds tears, and silences critics as Portugal beats Spain 5-3 on penalties to claim their second UEFA Nations League crown

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Cristiano Ronaldo Leads Portugal to Nations League Victory Over Spain in Munich

Cristiano Ronaldo, at 40 years old, proved yet again why he’s a football phenomenon that defies time and logic. On Sunday night in Munich, the Portuguese icon spearheaded his national team to a second UEFA Nations League title with a crucial equalizing goal, as Portugal edged out rivals Spain 5-3 on penalties after a gripping 2-2 draw in regulation and extra time.


The match was a rollercoaster of high-stakes drama, individual brilliance, and strategic brilliance. Spain struck first through Martin Zubimendi in the 21st minute, only to be matched swiftly by Portugal’s flying full-back Nuno Mendes five minutes later. Mikel Oyarzabal then gave the Spanish side a 2-1 lead before halftime, but the man of the moment — Ronaldo — calmly slotted home his 138th international goal in the 61st minute to draw level once more.

The game remained locked at 2-2 after extra time, leading to a nerve-racking penalty shootout. Goalkeeper Diogo Costa became the unexpected hero when he denied Alvaro Morata, sealing Portugal’s triumph and sending Ronaldo and the nation into jubilation.


Tears, Legacy, and a Message to the World
Having been subbed off in the 88th minute, the five-time Ballon d’Or winner watched the finale unfold from the bench. But when the whistle blew and the title was secured, Ronaldo was overwhelmed with emotion. With tears in his eyes, he called it, “A duty done and a lot of joy,” adding, “Nothing beats winning for Portugal.”

Critics have questioned Ronaldo’s place in top-level football, especially after his move to Saudi Arabia’s Al-Nassr. But the veteran forward has silenced doubters by ending the campaign with eight goals in nine Nations League appearances—second only to Viktor Gyokeres of Sweden.


The Yamal Showdown and Mendes’ Rise
The clash was also hyped as a symbolic generational duel between Ronaldo and Spain’s teenage sensation, Lamine Yamal. But the 17-year-old found no joy against Nuno Mendes, the 22-year-old PSG left-back who was a defensive wall and an attacking force. Not only did Mendes score the opening equalizer, but he also delivered four successful dribbles, more than any Portuguese player, and was named Man of the Match.

Source : Getty Images


UEFA’s technical observer team called Mendes “incredible both in attack and defense,” and Spanish journalist Guillem Balague even suggested Mendes could be a Ballon d’Or top 10 contender. Yamal, on the other hand, had a quiet night, marked by frustration and missed long-range efforts.


Martinez Secures First International Title
This victory is more than just a trophy for Portugal. It could also be job-saving for manager Roberto Martinez, whose future was under scrutiny after an uninspiring stint with Belgium. According to reports, the Portuguese FA had been considering replacing him with José Mourinho or Jorge Jesus.

Via : Getty Images


However, with this title under his belt—and Ronaldo thriving under his guidance—Martinez might have just silenced the rumors for now. As pundit Karen Carney noted, “The players and Ronaldo have reacted positively to him. He will now be judged on the World Cup.”


Portugal’s Future Looks Bright
As fireworks erupted at Allianz Arena, it wasn’t just Ronaldo basking in glory. Mendes, Joao Neves, Vitinha, and Gonçalo Ramos—key figures for both PSG and Portugal—are writing a new chapter for the national side. The blend of veteran leadership and youthful talent is setting the stage for Portugal to remain a dominant force heading into the 2026 World Cup.

In a night to remember, Cristiano Ronaldo may have played one of his last finals in Portuguese colors—but he made sure it ended with legacy, pride, and another silver trophy.

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Sports

David Stern’s Net Worth Revealed as NBA Powerhouse Leaves Lasting Legacy

Legendary Commissioner amassed a reported $135 million by the time of his passing in 2020

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David Stern at NBA headquarters—architect of the global league—and amassing a reported $135 million net worth.

David Joel Stern, the transformative NBA commissioner from 1984 to 2014, left behind a formidable financial legacy. At the time of his death on January 1, 2020, his net worth was widely reported to be around $135 million, according to sources such as Celebrity Net Worth, The Wealth Advisor, and The Cinemaholic

This substantial wealth stemmed primarily from his lucrative salary as the NBA’s head, reportedly earning about $20 million per year during his tenure . Beyond salary, Stern’s enduring value came from dramatically growing the league’s worth—transforming a $118 million revenue league in the early 1980s into a multi-billion-dollar enterprise by the time he retired

David Stern (Former Commissioner Of The NBA)



Stern’s strategic initiatives—global expansion, gender equity, and multimedia innovation—cemented the NBA’s status as a global powerhouse. He launched NBA TV and League Pass, led the league through major TV deals, established the WNBA and G League, and set in motion the international training camps and exhibitions that fueled global fan growth

David Stern



Though his fortune pales beside modern billionaire sports figures, $135 million represents a remarkable personal achievement for a commissioner driven more by institutional reform than profit-chasing. His legacy lives on through the thriving league, the annual Larry O’Brien Trophy presentations, and his lasting impact on sports administration.

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