Latest Sports Current Affairs 2026 covering Khelo India Beach Games, Virat Kohli records, Alyssa Healy retirement, chess milestones, ICC awards.
Sports Current Affairs 2026: Major Highlights and Achievements
The world of sports witnessed several landmark moments, inspiring performances, and historic milestones across disciplines in early 2026. From India’s dominance at the Khelo India Beach Games to record-breaking feats in cricket and chess, these developments underline the growing depth and global impact of modern sports.
Karnataka Shines at Khelo India Beach Games 2026
Karnataka emerged as the overall champion at the Khelo India Beach Games (KIBG) 2026, showcasing exceptional talent and preparation. The state secured a total of 11 medals, including 3 gold, 2 silver, and 6 bronze, finishing ahead of strong contenders.
The event was held at Ghoghla Beach, Diu, transforming the scenic coastline into a vibrant sporting arena. The Games featured six medal sports:
- Beach Volleyball
- Beach Soccer
- Sepak Takraw
- Beach Kabaddi
- Pencak Silat
- Open Water Swimming
Tamil Nadu finished second with 8 medals, while Manipur claimed third place with 7 medals, highlighting the competitive balance among Indian states in emerging beach sports.
Adding charm to the event, the official mascot ‘Pearl’, a cheerful dolphin, welcomed over 1,100 athletes from 30 states and Union Territories, reinforcing the inclusive and national character of the Games.
Alyssa Healy Announces Retirement from International Cricket
Australian women’s cricket captain Alyssa Healy announced her retirement following the India series (February–March 2026), bringing an end to a remarkable 15-year international career.
Her achievements include:
- 8 World Cup titles, comprising
- 6 T20 World Cups (2010, 2012, 2014, 2018, 2020, 2023)
- 2 ODI World Cups (2013, 2022)
- 7,106 international runs across nearly 300 matches
- 269 dismissals across formats, making her the most successful wicketkeeper in women’s international cricket
- Representation in 24 Tests, 119 ODIs, and 126 T20Is
She retires as the third-highest run-scorer for Australia Women, behind Meg Lanning and Ellyse Perry, leaving behind a legacy of leadership, consistency, and excellence.
MS Dhoni Appointed Goodwill Ambassador for Pune Grand Tour 2026
Former Indian cricket captain MS Dhoni was named the Goodwill Ambassador for the Pune Grand Tour 2026, scheduled from January 19 to 23.
This event is notable as India’s first international multi-stage professional road cycling race, aimed at promoting cycling culture, fitness, and sustainable mobility. Dhoni’s association is expected to boost the race’s global visibility and encourage youth participation in endurance sports.
Virat Kohli Becomes Second-Highest International Run-Scorer
Indian batting icon Virat Kohli achieved another historic milestone by becoming the second-highest run-scorer in international cricket.
- Kohli surpassed Kumar Sangakkara’s tally of 28,016 runs
- New total: 28,068 international runs
- Now trails only Sachin Tendulkar (34,357 runs)
The landmark was achieved during a match-winning 93-run knock against New Zealand in Vadodara, underlining Kohli’s continued dominance and match-winning ability across formats.
India’s Chess Rise Continues: Aaryan Varshney Becomes Grandmaster
Indian chess prodigy Aaryan Varshney became India’s 92nd Chess Grandmaster after securing his final GM norm at the Andranik Margaryan Memorial Tournament in Armenia.
His achievement reflects:
- India’s growing strength in global chess
- A strong pipeline of young talents competing at elite international levels
- The country’s increasing influence in classical and competitive chess circuits
ICC Player of the Month Awards (December 2025)
Women’s Player of the Month
South African captain Laura Wolvaardt was named the ICC Women’s Player of the Month (December 2025) for her record-breaking performances against Ireland, marked by consistency, leadership, and high-impact scoring.
Men’s Player of the Month
Australian fast bowler Mitchell Starc won the ICC Men’s Player of the Month (December 2025) for his outstanding all-round impact during the Ashes series, where his pace, swing, and match-defining spells proved decisive.
National Olympic Academy Reactivated in India
The Indian Olympic Association reactivated the National Olympic Academy in collaboration with the International Olympic Academy.
This move aims to:
- Strengthen Olympic education and values
- Enhance training of athletes, coaches, and sports administrators
- Align India’s sports ecosystem with global Olympic standards
Conclusion
Sports in 2026 continue to reflect India’s rising multi-sport ambitions and the global excellence of elite athletes. From Karnataka’s beach sports triumph and India’s chess milestones to legendary careers and records in cricket, these developments mark a dynamic and inspiring phase in contemporary sports history.
