James O'Brien 
England opened the first Test against Pakistan in spectacular fashion when Ollie Robinson bowled Azan Awais lbw with the very first delivery of the day at Headingley. The early wicket gave England an ideal start to the match.
Ruby Tui, a World Cup winner and Olympic medalist, has joined the English Premiership Women’s Rugby side Trailfinders Women on a one‑year contract. Coach Barney Maddison praised her experience and leadership, saying she will be a major asset as the club builds on last season’s success.
Warrington Wolves secured a 34-28 victory over defending champions Hull KR in the Betfred Super League. George Williams, playing his first match after neck surgery, scored a decisive try that helped the Wolves close the gap on the league leaders. The win moved Warrington within two points of the top two teams, while Hull KR remain in fifth place fighting for a playoff spot.
Venus Williams, aged 46, has been awarded a wildcard into the US Open singles main draw, joining Sloane Stephens. With one spot still open, sister Serena Williams could also receive a wildcard, while both sisters recently returned to competition at the Cincinnati Open.
Alex Albon has signed a one‑year extension to remain with the Williams Formula 1 team for the 2027 season. The British‑Thai driver, who has been with the team since 2022, said he believes in the transformation underway under team principal James Vowles, despite the team’s recent struggles.
Newcastle United have completed the signing of Bosnian defender Amar Dedic from Benfica for a reported £30 million on a five‑year contract. The move reunites Dedic with manager Matthias Jaissle, who coached him at Red Bull Salzburg, and provides a replacement for the departing right‑back Kieran Trippier.
Mike Bailey, a former midfielder and captain of Wolverhampton Wanderers, has died at the age of 84 following a long illness. He made 436 appearances for Wolves, winning the 1974 League Cup and helping the club reach the UEFA Cup final in 1972, before later managing several clubs.
British sailing duo Martin Wrigley and Bettine Harris captured gold at the 470 World Championship in Enoshima, Japan, beating defending champions from Spain. Their victory secures them as leading contenders for the 2028 Los Angeles Olympics and will help Great Britain secure a quota place in the class.
Leicester City Women were relegated from the WSL and saw a mass exodus of players. Amid the rebuild, long‑serving captain Sam Tierney renewed her contract until 2028, pledging to stay and help the club return to the top flight. The article outlines the club’s summer departures, new signings and Tierney’s vision for a sustainable future.
England Women have named Charlie Dean as captain for their September one‑day international series against Ireland, while regular captain Nat Sciver‑Brunt and other senior players are being rested. The squad includes two uncapped players and several returning or emerging talents, giving them a chance to gain experience ahead of future selections.