Netherlands appoint Xavi Hernandez as coach

Amsterdam: Former Spain international midfielder Xavi Hernandez has been appointed head coach of the Netherlands national football team, succeeding Ronald Koeman, who resigned following the 2026 World Cup, the Dutch Football Association announced today, Wednesday.

The 46-year-old coach, who led Barcelona to the Spanish league title in 2023, signed a contract running through the 2030 World Cup, which will be held in Spain, Portugal and Morocco, with several matches also taking place in Latin America. saltysenoritaaz.com

According to the Dutch Football Association, Xavi's contract will also see him lead the Netherlands at UEFA Euro 2028.

Galle, Sri Lanka: Rain prevented play in the morning session on the second day of the first cricket Test between Sri Lanka and India in Galle on Sunday.

The heavy downpour in the coastal town denied India an opportunity to build on their good start in the country's 600th Test.

The tourists ended the opening day on 288-2 with top-order batsman Devdutt Padikkal hitting an unbeaten hundred.

Recalled to the side after more than two years as a late injury replacement for Sai Sudharsan, Padikkal made the most of the opportunity.

He was batting on 131 not out off 178 deliveries with 12 fours and one six when stumps were called for the day.

Together with Rishabh Pant, on 27 not out, Padikkal added 52 runs for the third wicket.

Galle is hosting its 50th Test match, the first Asian ground to achieve the milestone.

India have an impressive record against Sri Lanka, having not lost any Test against them since 2015.

Doha, Qatar: Qatar have been drawn alongside Tunisia, France and Venezuela in Pool A of the 2026 FIVB Volleyball Boys’ U17 World Championship, which will be hosted in Doha from August 19 to 29.

The tournament will bring together 20 teams from around the world, divided into five pools. Pool B features Italy, Cuba, India and Romania, while Argentina, Brazil, Mexico and Poland make up Pool C.

Pool D consists of Spain, Egypt, Bulgaria and Türkiye, while Pool E includes Iran, Chinese Taipei, Pakistan and Algeria.

Each team will play three matches in the preliminary round, with the top 16 teams in the overall standings advancing to the Round of 16. The competition will then continue through the knockout stages leading to the semifinals, third-place playoff and final.

Matches will be staged at Aspire Sports Hall and Al Arabi Sports Club Hall, as Doha prepares to welcome some of the world’s most promising young volleyball players for the global championship.