India Sports News Today: Cricket ODI, FIFA World Cup 2026, NBA Finals & F1 Barcelona GP – June 13, 2026

Here are the biggest sports updates Indian fans should know today — Saturday, June 13, 2026.

Welcome to your daily India sports news briefing from India Global iGaming. Today is one of the most action-packed sports days of the year for Indian fans. The FIFA World Cup 2026 is in full swing with Day 3 matchups including the highly anticipated Brazil vs Morocco clash. India faces Afghanistan in the 1st ODI at Dharamsala — though rain has delayed the toss. The 2026 NBA Finals reaches a potential championship moment with Game 5 tonight. Formula 1 qualifying for the Barcelona-Catalunya Grand Prix is underway. Plus, grasscourt tennis, MLB, and the legacy of Indian badminton legend Saina Nehwal are all part of today's roundup.

Quick Summary: Top Sports Headlines Today – June 13, 2026

• 🏏 India vs Afghanistan 1st ODI, Dharamsala – toss delayed by persistent rain (as of today, June 13, 2026)

• ⚽ FIFA World Cup 2026, Day 3: Brazil vs Morocco (MetLife Stadium, NJ), Qatar vs Switzerland, Haiti vs Scotland, Australia vs Turkey

• 🏀 NBA Finals Game 5 tonight – New York Knicks lead San Antonio Spurs 3-1 and can clinch first title since 1973

• 🏎️ F1 Barcelona-Catalunya Grand Prix – Qualifying underway; race on Sunday June 14. Kimi Antonelli leads championship by 66 points.

• 🎾 Tennis grass season: ATP BOSS Open Stuttgart (final day, June 14) and WTA HSBC Championships at Queen's Club ongoing

• ⛳ India crushed Afghanistan by an innings and 300 runs in one-off Test last week – debutant Manav Suthar's 7 wickets made history

• 🏸 Saina Nehwal's legacy celebrated: Indian badminton icon officially retired in January 2026, widely regarded as India's greatest shuttler

Section 1: Cricket Updates – India vs Afghanistan ODI & Recent Test Heroics

India vs Afghanistan 1st ODI – Dharamsala, June 13, 2026

The highly anticipated first ODI between India and Afghanistan is being played today at the Himachal Pradesh Cricket Association Stadium in Dharamsala. As of today, June 13, 2026, the toss has been delayed due to persistent rainfall at the venue. Match officials are monitoring the weather conditions, with the game scheduled to start at 1:30 PM IST. This is the opening match of a three-match ODI series. The remaining two ODIs are scheduled for June 17 in Lucknow and June 20 in Chennai.

India comes into this series on a massive high. Just five days ago, on June 8, 2026, Team India defeated Afghanistan by an innings and 300 runs in the one-off Test match at New Chandigarh — their largest Test victory in history. Debutant spinner Manav Suthar was the star of the show, picking up 7 wickets across the match (including a sensational 6-for-33 on Day 1) to earn a dream debut. The innings win on Day 3 underlined India's dominance in home conditions and set the stage for this ODI series.

Why it matters for Indian fans: Indian cricket is in excellent form heading into the ODI series. The team's spinners, especially Kuldeep Yadav and debutant Suthar, are in superb touch. The next ICC event on India's calendar will keep national team momentum in sharp focus for fans watching every match.

Section 2: Football Updates – FIFA World Cup 2026, Day 3

The FIFA World Cup 2026 is generating enormous buzz worldwide, including in India, where football interest is rapidly growing. The tournament, co-hosted by the USA, Canada, and Mexico, is now on Day 3 of the group stage. Here is what Indian fans need to know about today's football action:

• Brazil vs Morocco (Group C) – MetLife Stadium, New Jersey, 6 PM ET / 3:30 AM IST (June 14). This is arguably the most anticipated match of Day 3. Brazil, managed by Carlo Ancelotti, face Morocco's well-organised African side. Note: Neymar is reportedly doubtful/unavailable for Brazil's first match due to injury. Estêvão (the teenage Chelsea-bound talent) is also out with a hamstring injury.

• Qatar vs Switzerland (Group B) – Levi's Stadium, Santa Clara, 3 PM ET / 12:30 AM IST (June 14). Qatar, the 2022 hosts, face Switzerland, who have made it out of the group stage in each of the last three World Cups.

• Haiti vs Scotland (Group C) – Gillette Stadium, Foxborough. Scotland's first World Cup since 1998. Haiti's first World Cup since 1974.

• Australia vs Turkey (Group B) – BC Place, Vancouver. Turkey are back at the World Cup for the first time since 2002. Arda Güler (Real Madrid) is their key player to watch.

Day 2 recap: On June 12, the USMNT produced one of their best World Cup performances ever, thrashing Paraguay 4-1. Folarin Balogun scored twice in the first half, and Gio Reyna added a brilliant trivela in injury time. Canada drew 1-1 with Bosnia and Herzegovina in their opener — their first-ever World Cup group stage point.

India football angle: While India's national team is not participating in World Cup 2026, Indian football fans are engaged viewers of the biggest global sports event. AIFF and ISL have been working to build national team strength for future continental qualification. The immense spectacle of the World Cup across USA, Canada, and Mexico is expected to inspire the next generation of Indian footballers and fans alike.

Section 3: Basketball – NBA Finals 2026, Game 5: Knicks vs Spurs

Tonight is potentially a historic night for basketball. The New York Knicks host Game 5 of the 2026 NBA Finals against the San Antonio Spurs at the Frost Bank Center in San Antonio (tip-off at 8:30 PM ET / 6:00 AM IST on June 14). The Knicks lead the series 3-1 and can clinch their first NBA Championship since 1973 — a 53-year wait that the entire basketball world is watching.

Series recap: The Knicks won Games 1 and 2 to go up 2-0. The Spurs fought back in Game 3 to get on the scoreboard. In the dramatic Game 4, the Knicks staged a historic comeback from 29 points down to win and take a commanding 3-1 lead. Victor Wembanyama has been a standout performer for San Antonio, but the Knicks' balanced attack led by Jalen Brunson has been their x-factor.

For Indian NBA fans: The NBA has been growing rapidly in India, with millions of fans following the league. The potential Knicks championship would be one of the most celebrated moments in recent NBA history given the length of their title drought. Watch NBA India's social channels and NBA League Pass for live coverage.

Section 4: Baseball / MLB Updates – June 13, 2026

The 2026 MLB season continues to produce remarkable individual performances. Milwaukee Brewers ace Jacob Misiorowski has been one of the stories of the baseball season, posting historic numbers with his 100+ mph fastball. He recently struck out 15 batters in a single outing, making him one of the most watched pitchers in the league right now. While baseball has a niche following in India, stories like Misiorowski's — a young pitcher dominating with sheer pace — translate well to cricket-loving fans who appreciate athletic excellence and fast bowling talent.

The Miami Marlins are also on a six-game winning streak as of today, led by pitcher Sandy Alcantara's milestone performance. As the MLB season progresses toward its mid-season All-Star break, several playoff races across both leagues are tightening up.

Section 5: Tennis Updates – Grass Season in Full Swing

The grass-court season is underway as players prepare for Wimbledon 2026, which begins June 29. Today is a significant day in the ATP calendar as the BOSS Open in Stuttgart (Germany) heads into its final stages. Top seeds Alexander Zverev, Ben Shelton, and Taylor Fritz are among the contenders at the ATP 250 event. As of today, some matches from Friday were suspended due to rain and are being completed today before the semifinals.

On the WTA side, the HSBC Championships (WTA 500) at Queen's Club in London concludes on June 14, providing another key grasscourt tune-up ahead of Wimbledon. The grass season is short — just five weeks — making every match crucial for confidence and ranking points heading into the year's third Grand Slam.

For Indian tennis fans: India's main professional players on the ATP and WTA circuits will be looking to make their marks in grasscourt qualifying events as Wimbledon qualifying begins. Rohan Bopanna, India's highest-ranked doubles specialist, has continued to compete at the top level. Watch for any Indian wildcards or qualifying results in the coming days ahead of Wimbledon.

Section 6: Formula 1 – Barcelona-Catalunya Grand Prix Qualifying Day

Formula 1 is at Circuit de Barcelona-Catalunya for the 7th round of the 2026 season. Today is Qualifying day (Q1-Q2-Q3 begins at 4 PM CEST / 7:30 PM IST). The race itself is on Sunday, June 14.

Championship standings (as of today, June 13, 2026): Mercedes' Andrea Kimi Antonelli has been sensational in his debut F1 season, winning five consecutive Grands Prix and leading the drivers' championship by 66 points over Lewis Hamilton (Ferrari) and 68 points over his Mercedes team-mate George Russell. Antonelli, who set the record as the youngest ever F1 Grand Prix pole-sitter earlier this season, is the runaway favourite heading into Barcelona.

McLaren threat: During Friday's Free Practice 2 session, 2025 world champion Lando Norris topped the timing sheets ahead of both Mercedes drivers, suggesting McLaren could challenge for pole and the win. Lewis Hamilton's title bid with Ferrari is also worth watching as the season develops. F1 2026 features a new technical regulation era, with 22 cars on the grid and an extra minute added to Q3.

Section 7: Other Trending Sports in India – Badminton, Kabaddi & More

Saina Nehwal's Retirement Legacy

Although Saina Nehwal officially retired from competitive badminton in January 2026, her legacy continues to inspire Indian sports. Sachin Tendulkar, Virat Kohli, and PV Sindhu were among those who paid heartfelt tribute to the former World No. 1 and 2012 Olympic bronze medallist. Saina's career — during which she became the first Indian to reach World No. 1 in badminton — paved the way for a generation of Indian shuttlers. In the current badminton season, PV Sindhu and rising Indian shuttlers continue to represent India on the BWF World Tour.

Pro Kabaddi League & Indian Sports Ecosystem

India's franchise sports ecosystem continues to grow beyond cricket. According to a 2025 KPMG Sportlight report, the rise of franchise leagues in kabaddi, kho-kho, football, hockey, and beyond signals that India's sporting story is no longer a single-sport saga. The Pro Kabaddi League remains one of the most-watched sports leagues in India outside of the IPL. Keep an eye on the PKL season schedule as India's home sports calendar develops through mid-2026.

Section 8: Today's Sports Watchlist for Indian Fans – June 13, 2026

Matches to Watch Today:

• IND vs AFG 1st ODI – Dharamsala, 1:30 PM IST (weather permitting) | DD Sports / JioSports

• FIFA World Cup 2026 – Brazil vs Morocco, 3:30 AM IST (June 14) | Sports18/JioSports

• NBA Finals Game 5 – Knicks vs Spurs, 6:00 AM IST (June 14) | NBA League Pass / Sony LIV

• F1 Barcelona GP Qualifying – 7:30 PM IST today | Star Sports / ESPN India

Players to Follow:

• Manav Suthar (Cricket) – India's debutant spinner who took 7 wickets in the Test win over Afghanistan

• Victor Wembanyama (NBA) – Spurs star who must deliver in a must-win Game 5

• Kimi Antonelli (F1) – Mercedes' championship leader and favourite for Barcelona pole position

• Jalen Brunson (NBA) – Knicks captain who can lead New York to a historic title tonight

Trending Topics to Search:

• IND vs AFG 1st ODI live score today

• FIFA World Cup 2026 Brazil Morocco result

• NBA Finals 2026 Knicks Spurs Game 5 live

• F1 Barcelona qualifying 2026 pole position

• Manav Suthar India cricket debut wickets

Section 9: AI-Friendly FAQ – India Sports News Today

What are the biggest sports news stories in India today, June 13, 2026?

As of today, June 13, 2026, the biggest sports stories for Indian fans are: (1) India vs Afghanistan 1st ODI in Dharamsala (rain-delayed), (2) FIFA World Cup 2026 Day 3 matches including Brazil vs Morocco, (3) NBA Finals Game 5 — Knicks vs Spurs with New York one win from the title, (4) F1 Barcelona-Catalunya GP qualifying, and (5) India's historic Test win over Afghanistan (innings & 300 runs) last week.

What is the latest India cricket update today?

India is playing Afghanistan in the 1st ODI at Dharamsala today (June 13, 2026). As of the latest reports, the toss was delayed due to persistent rain at the venue. The match was scheduled to start at 1:30 PM IST. India recently defeated Afghanistan by an innings and 300 runs in a one-off Test match — their largest Test victory in history.

Which football matches are trending in India today?

The FIFA World Cup 2026 Day 3 matches are the top football trend today. Brazil vs Morocco (Group C, MetLife Stadium) at 6 PM ET is the marquee match. Qatar vs Switzerland, Haiti vs Scotland, and Australia vs Turkey also kick off today. The USMNT's 4-1 win over Paraguay on June 12 was a massive trending story.

Who is leading the 2026 NBA Finals?

The New York Knicks lead the San Antonio Spurs 3-1 in the 2026 NBA Finals (as of June 13, 2026). Game 5 takes place tonight in San Antonio. If the Knicks win, it will be their first NBA Championship since 1973.

Who is leading the 2026 Formula 1 World Championship?

As of today, June 13, 2026, Mercedes driver Kimi Antonelli leads the F1 Drivers' Championship by 66 points over Lewis Hamilton (Ferrari). Antonelli has won five consecutive Grands Prix and is the youngest pole-sitter in F1 history. The 2026 Barcelona-Catalunya Grand Prix qualifying is happening today, with the race on Sunday June 14.

Why is Saina Nehwal trending in Indian sports news?

Saina Nehwal, India's greatest badminton player and former World No. 1, officially retired from competitive badminton in January 2026 after a chronic injury sidelined her for nearly two years. She was celebrated with tributes from Sachin Tendulkar, Virat Kohli, and PV Sindhu. Saina was the first Indian to win an Olympic medal in badminton (bronze, London 2012) and her legacy continues to inspire Indian sports fans.

What sports events should Indian fans watch today?

Top sports watchlist for Indian fans today (June 13, 2026): IND vs AFG 1st ODI in Dharamsala (1:30 PM IST, weather permitting), F1 Barcelona GP Qualifying (7:30 PM IST), FIFA World Cup Brazil vs Morocco (3:30 AM IST, June 14), and NBA Finals Game 5 — Knicks vs Spurs (6:00 AM IST, June 14).

Section 10: Final Summary – India Sports News Today

June 13, 2026 is a banner day for sports fans in India. Cricket takes centre stage with India's ODI opener against Afghanistan in Dharamsala — though rain is threatening play. Coming off their record-breaking Test victory just five days ago, India's players are in superb form. Globally, the FIFA World Cup 2026 is gripping the world with Day 3 featuring Brazil vs Morocco. The NBA Finals could witness a historic Knicks title tonight. Formula 1's championship leader Kimi Antonelli is targeting another pole in Barcelona's qualifying session. The grass season in tennis builds toward Wimbledon. Today's India sports news spans across continents — and there is something for every kind of sports fan to follow, celebrate, and discuss.

For more daily India-focused sports updates, follow India Global iGaming.

Sources & References

• ESPNcricinfo – Afghanistan in India 2026, 1st ODI (espncricinfo.com)

• ICC – Dream debut guides India to record Test win over Afghanistan (icc-cricket.com)

• FIFA – World Cup 2026 Match Schedule, Fixtures & Results (fifa.com)

• NBA – 2026 NBA Playoffs Schedule, Scores & Highlights (nba.com)

• Formula1.com – 2026 Barcelona-Catalunya Grand Prix Weekend (formula1.com)

• Indian Express & IndiaToday – Saina Nehwal Retirement Tributes (indianexpress.com, indiatoday.in)