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Sri Lanka Women Triumph in T20 World Cup Qualifier, Defeat Scotland by 68 Runs

Sri Lanka Women Triumph in T20 World Cup Qualifier, Defeat Scotland by 68 Runs

By May 13, 2024 0

Sri Lanka’s women’s cricket team emerged victorious in the ICC Women’s T20 World Cup Qualifier 2024, defeating Scotland by a commanding 68 runs in the summit clash. The triumph secured their spot in the upcoming ICC Women’s T20 World Cup 2024 in Bangladesh.

Batting first, Sri Lanka posted a formidable total of 169/5 in their allotted 20 overs. Skipper Chamari Athapaththu led the charge with a scintillating century, smashing 102 runs off just 63 deliveries. Her innings was a masterclass in power-hitting, peppered with boundaries and sixes.

Scotland’s bowlers struggled to contain Athapaththu’s onslaught, with only Abtaha Maqsood managing to pick up a wicket. However, fortune smiled upon Athapaththu in the 17th over when she survived a close call. An inside edge saw the ball touch the stumps, but the bails remained intact, much to the dismay of Scotland’s wicketkeeper Sarah Bryce.

Chasing a challenging target of 170, Scotland’s openers Saskia Horley and Megan McColl started brightly, but their momentum was halted by the early dismissals of Horley and McColl. Skipper Bryce also fell cheaply, leaving Scotland in disarray at 23/4.

Priyanaz Chatterji attempted to revive Scotland’s chase with a brisk 30, but her efforts were in vain as Sri Lanka’s bowlers maintained a tight grip on the game. Udeshika Prabodhani emerged as the pick of the bowlers, claiming three wickets, including the crucial scalp of Chatterji.

In the end, Scotland were restricted to 101/7, falling well short of Sri Lanka’s total. The victory not only secured Sri Lanka’s place in the Women’s T20 World Cup but also earned them a spot in Group A alongside Australia, New Zealand, India, and Pakistan.

Categories: Cricket
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Zheng Qinwen Ends Osaka's Clay-Court Resurgence in Rome

Zheng Qinwen Ends Osaka’s Clay-Court Resurgence in Rome

By May 13, 2024 0

Naomi Osaka’s resurgence on clay came to an abrupt end in the fourth round of the Internazionali BNL d’Italia, as she succumbed to the power and consistency of Zheng Qinwen in straight sets, 6-2, 6-4.

Despite her struggles on the surface, Osaka had shown promising signs in Rome, notching back-to-back victories over Top 20 opponents. However, the No. 7 seed proved too formidable for the four-time Grand Slam champion, who bowed out in 84 minutes on Campo Centrale.

Osaka’s determination to improve her clay-court results was evident in her early arrival to the swing and her participation in a 250 event in Rouen. She carried that momentum into Madrid, where she reached the second round before falling to Liudmila Samsonova.

In Rome, Osaka strung together her most impressive results on clay since 2019, when she reached the quarterfinals of both Madrid and Rome. She dispatched Porsche Tennis Grand Prix runner-up Marta Kostyuk and 2022 Roland Garros semifinalist Daria Kasatkina in straight sets, marking the first time in five years that she had won three consecutive matches on the surface.

However, Zheng, another big hitter with a proven track record on clay, proved to be a formidable opponent. The 21-year-old Chinese star had reached the quarterfinals of Rome last year and made a strong start to the 2024 season, reaching her first Grand Slam final at the Australian Open.

Despite an injury setback in Stuttgart, Zheng looked in fine form in Rome, dispatching Shelby Rogers and Linda Noskova to set up her second career meeting with Osaka.

The match began with an exchange of breaks, but Zheng quickly gained the upper hand, taking advantage of Osaka’s inconsistent first serve percentage (27%) to break three times and claim the opening set in under 40 minutes.

Zheng maintained her momentum in the second set, breaking Osaka early and holding on to a 5-4 lead with a chance to serve for the match. Osaka complained to the umpire about a potential hindrance from Zheng’s delayed grunt, but her protest was dismissed. Zheng converted her second match point to reach another quarterfinal in Rome, where she will face either Coco Gauff or Paula Badosa for a spot in the semifinals.

Categories: Tennis
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Confetti Protests Disrupt Italian Open Tennis Matches

Confetti Protests Disrupt Italian Open Tennis Matches

By May 13, 2024 0

Tennis Protests Escalate: Confetti-Scattering Incidents Disrupt Italian Open

Tennis has once again been marred by protests, with multiple incidents occurring at the Internazionali BNL d’Italia in Rome on Monday. Protestors wearing orange vests stormed courts and scattered confetti on the clay, causing delays and disruptions to matches.

In the fourth-round match between Madison Keys and Sorana Cirstea, a protestor ran onto the court with bags of confetti and proceeded to scatter them before being removed by security guards. Play was suspended while the court was cleaned.

A similar incident occurred moments later on Court 12 during a men’s doubles match between Édouard Roger-Vasselin and Santiago González against Marcelo Arévalo and Mate Pavić. Pavić confronted one of the two protestors, who also scattered confetti, leading to another suspension of play.

These incidents follow a growing trend of protests during tennis matches in recent years. Notably, during the US Open semifinal between Coco Gauff and Karolina Muchova, an environmental activist glued his feet to the Arthur Ashe Stadium stands, causing a 50-minute delay.

At Wimbledon, puzzle pieces were scattered across the court during a first-round match between Grigor Dimitrov and Sho Shimabukuro, and later in a women’s singles match between Katie Boulter and Daria Saville.

The reasons behind these protests vary, but they often involve environmental or social justice issues. The protestors aim to raise awareness and disrupt the smooth running of events to draw attention to their causes.

While the right to protest is important, the disruption of sporting events can be frustrating for players, fans, and organizers. Tennis authorities are faced with the challenge of balancing the need for security and the right to free expression.

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Liam Livingstone Leaves IPL Early to Address Knee Injury Ahead of T20 World Cup

Liam Livingstone Leaves IPL Early to Address Knee Injury Ahead of T20 World Cup

By May 13, 2024 0

Liam Livingstone, the Punjab Kings and England all-rounder, has prematurely departed India to address a lingering knee issue ahead of the T20 World Cup in June. Livingstone has endured a string of muscle injuries in recent years, including two missed games early in the IPL season due to an on-field injury during a loss to Lucknow Super Giants.

Despite returning to the PBKS lineup for their defeat to Royal Challengers Bengaluru, Livingstone has now left the tournament with his team eliminated. ESPNcricinfo reports that his knee injury is not severe enough to jeopardize his World Cup participation but necessitates rest before England’s upcoming T20I series against Pakistan.

Livingstone’s IPL campaign was underwhelming, with 111 runs in seven innings at a strike rate of 142.30 and three wickets in 12 overs. This follows a lackluster winter in franchise cricket, including a quiet SA20 season with MI Cape Town and a brief stint with Sharjah Warriors.

Other England World Cup squad members participating in the IPL, including Moeen Ali, Jonny Bairstow, Jos Buttler, Sam Curran, Will Jacks, Phil Salt, and Reece Topley, will also return home shortly. They are expected to reunite in Leeds before England’s first T20I at Headingley on May 22.

Livingstone’s departure highlights the importance of player management and injury prevention ahead of major tournaments. With the T20 World Cup approaching, England will be keen to ensure that their key players are fit and ready to perform at their best.

Categories: Cricket
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Punjab Kings' Playoff Drought Blamed on Leadership Inconsistency

Punjab Kings’ Playoff Drought Blamed on Leadership Inconsistency

By May 13, 2024 0

The Punjab Kings’ decade-long playoff drought in the Indian Premier League (IPL) has been attributed to “inconsistency in leadership,” according to former head coach Tom Moody. The franchise has appointed 15 different captains in 17 seasons, a factor that Moody believes has hindered their progress.

“I think it is a pretty good indication of why they have their struggles,” Moody told IANS. “They have many changes with regards to leadership whether it be on field or off field. There seems to always be that inconsistency when it comes to what direction their leadership is taking both on and off the field. Therefore that inconsistency is naturally going to flow into what happens on the field.”

Moody, who coached Punjab to their first playoff appearance in 2008, emphasized the importance of stability in leadership. He pointed to his successful tenure with the Sunrisers Hyderabad, where he led the team to five playoff appearances and the title in 2016.

Despite Punjab’s struggles, Moody expressed optimism about the future of Indian cricket. He praised the emergence of young players like Riyan Parag and Abhishek Porel, who have impressed in the ongoing IPL season.

“The future is very bright, the IPL always uncovers many domestic players showcase their talents,” Moody said. “We’ve seen many grow as the seasons unfold and a good example of that is Riyan Parag at Rajasthan. He has been in the IPL for a number of years, he is still a young player but this year has been a breakout season for him and it sort of put his name on the radar as a future potential Indian player.”

“Another example of that is (Abhishek) Porel from the Delhi Capitals, he is another one that has had a really good season. It is great to have a platform like this where not only Indian players but overseas players can showcase their skills in the best T20 tournament in the world.”

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Ganguly's Respectful Gesture Mends Rift with Kohli

Ganguly’s Respectful Gesture Mends Rift with Kohli

By May 13, 2024 0

Sourav Ganguly’s Respectful Gesture Towards Virat Kohli Mends Past Differences

In a heartwarming display of reconciliation, former India captains Sourav Ganguly and Virat Kohli put aside their past differences during the Indian Premier League (IPL) 2024 match between Royal Challengers Bengaluru and Delhi Capitals.

After RCB’s 35-run victory, Ganguly, the Delhi Capitals mentor, approached Kohli to shake his hand. However, in a gesture that left fans on social media impressed, Ganguly removed his cap as a mark of respect.

This gesture was a stark contrast to the strained relationship between the two icons in recent years. Last year, reports emerged of a rift between them, fueled by on-field incidents during the IPL.

However, the handshake and Ganguly’s respectful gesture suggest that the hatchet has been buried. Fans on social media praised Ganguly’s actions, highlighting the respect Kohli commands.

“Sourav Ganguly took his cap off before meeting Virat Kohli. That’s the respect Kohli has,” tweeted one user.

“Good to see them meeting each other after the issues they had in the past,” added another.

The reconciliation between Ganguly and Kohli is a positive sign for Indian cricket. It shows that even the greatest players can overcome differences and work together for the betterment of the sport.

In the match itself, RCB’s victory boosted their playoff qualification hopes. Delhi Capitals, on the other hand, saw their chances of reaching the playoffs diminish with the defeat.

DC stand-in captain Axar Patel lamented the dropped catches that cost his team dearly. “Dropped catches hurt us. Could’ve restricted them to 150. When you lose four wickets in powerplay, you’re always chasing the game,” he said.

With the defeat, DC’s playoff hopes are all but over. RCB, meanwhile, will look to continue their winning ways in their remaining matches to secure a spot in the playoffs.

Categories: Cricket
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David Miller: Strike Rate Paramount in T20 Cricket, Averages Less Relevant

David Miller: Strike Rate Paramount in T20 Cricket, Averages Less Relevant

By May 13, 2024 0

David Miller, the South African batsman, believes that strike rate will be the primary measure of success in T20 cricket, with averages becoming less relevant for players with his level of impact. Miller has been a key player for both the Gujarat Titans in the IPL and the South African national team, excelling in the role of a finisher.

In the current IPL season, batsmen have taken the power game to new heights, with seven scores above 250. This has sparked a debate about strike rate, with Miller emphasizing its importance. “In T20 cricket, it can be difficult to judge someone purely on average,” he said. “When it comes to the middle order, it has always been the strike rates and what kind of impact the batter has had in the game.”

Miller believes that as T20 cricket evolves, the focus will shift towards impact and match-winning ability. “How impactful are you in the game? Depending on the situation. If we’re needing 15 an over, can you do it? And that’s, I think, what guys are going to have to select teams on their match-winning ability,” he said.

Looking ahead to the T20 World Cup next month, Miller anticipates tough challenges from bowlers like Jasprit Bumrah. “Bumrah is bowling well at the moment. And he has been a world-class bowler for many years. He’s a threat to me, as well as every other batter in the World Cup,” he said.

Miller also praised Gujarat Titans teammate Sai Sudharsan, who is having a breakout IPL season. “He’s an incredibly talented player. Still got a long career ahead of him. I’ve enjoyed watching him play. I love the way that he preps. And just the build-up to games and how he goes about it. He’s a very level-headed young boy that’s got a lot of talent,” said Miller.

Miller and South Africa will be aiming to win their first global title at the T20 World Cup. “This team that we have at the moment has played a lot of cricket together the last couple of years and has a lot of confidence and a lot of success,” he said. “We’ve got a lot of experience, guys that have been under pressure before and come through successfully.”

Miller is confident in his own abilities in ICC events. “I love World Cups, I must be honest. I feel like I’ve done well at World Cups, personally. And I just want to continue the momentum,” he said.

Categories: Cricket
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Ramiz Raja Slams Pakistan Bowlers for Leaking Runs Against Ireland

Ramiz Raja Slams Pakistan Bowlers for Leaking Runs Against Ireland

By May 13, 2024 0

Pakistan’s former cricket board chairman, Ramiz Raja, has expressed his disappointment with the performance of the team’s bowlers in the second T20I against Ireland. Despite Pakistan’s comprehensive victory, Raja criticized the bowlers for conceding 162 runs in the first innings.

Shaheen Afridi, Mohammad Amir, Naseem Shah, and Abbas Afridi combined to give away runs at a hefty economy rate, with Shaheen and Amir proving particularly costly. Shaheen conceded 49 runs in his four-over spell, while Amir gave away 44 runs.

Raja believes that Pakistan’s bowlers have been struggling since last year’s World Cup in India. He pointed out that the team’s success has been built on the strength of its pacers, but they have been inconsistent in recent times.

“Pakistan’s top bowlers giving away so many runs against Ireland, then it will become hard for the team in future,” Raja said. “Pakistan’s forte, and success are based on the bowlers, especially pacers, they have been struggling since last year’s World Cup in India. Two balls are good and then three deliveries are bad, this makes the situation tough.”

Pakistan’s decision to bowl first backfired as Ireland posted a competitive total of 193/7. Lorcan Tucker led the charge with 51 runs, while Harry Tector and Curtis Campher provided valuable support.

In reply, Mohammad Rizwan and Fakhar Zaman laid the foundation for Pakistan’s chase with half-centuries. Azam Khan then sealed the victory with three consecutive sixes.

The series is now level at 1-1, with the third and deciding match scheduled for Tuesday at the Clontarf Cricket Club in Dublin.

Categories: Cricket
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Kylian Mbappé Confirms PSG Exit, Expected to Sign for Real Madrid

Kylian Mbappé Confirms PSG Exit, Expected to Sign for Real Madrid

By May 13, 2024 0

Kylian Mbappé’s tenure at Paris Saint-Germain (PSG) has come to an end, marked by a tumultuous relationship that culminated in his departure. The French superstar joined PSG in 2017 as a teenage prodigy from Monaco, but his time at the club has been marred by ongoing tensions and a lack of Champions League success.

Mbappé’s relationship with PSG began to deteriorate after he signed a lucrative contract extension in 2022. The club had promised to sign key players, including a top-class center forward, to accommodate Mbappé’s preferred position wide left. However, these promises were not kept, leaving Mbappé frustrated.

In June 2023, Mbappé stunned PSG by informing the club that he would not exercise the option for an extra year on his contract. This put PSG in a difficult position, as they faced the prospect of losing their star player for free when his contract expired.

Tensions escalated further when Mbappé was left out of PSG’s pre-season tour to Japan. The club insisted he would be sold, but Mbappé refused to leave. He eventually returned to the team and scored a penalty in the opening league game.

However, relations between Mbappé and PSG coach Luis Enrique became strained. Enrique showed his authority by benching or substituting Mbappé in important games. Mbappé’s status as the club’s untouchable star was suddenly in question.

In mid-February, Mbappé informed PSG president Nasser Al Khelaifi of his decision to leave. The club did not comment on the matter, and Mbappé made his departure official on May 10.

Mbappé’s last match for PSG will be the French Cup final against Lyon on May 25. His departure marks the end of an era for the club, as they have failed to win the Champions League despite investing heavily in star players.

Categories: Football
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Neeraj Chopra, Kishore Jena Granted Direct Entry into Federation Cup Finals

Neeraj Chopra, Kishore Jena Granted Direct Entry into Federation Cup Finals

By May 13, 2024 0

Star Indian javelin throwers Neeraj Chopra and Kishore Jena have been granted direct entry into the Federation Cup finals in Bhubaneswar on May 15th. This decision was made as both athletes have consistently surpassed the minimum qualification mark of 75m throughout their careers.

Chopra, the reigning Olympic and world champion, recently finished second at the Doha Diamond League with an impressive throw of 88.38m. Jena, the Asian Games silver medalist, made his Diamond League debut but was eliminated after three rounds with a best throw of 76.31m.

DP Manu, who placed sixth at the 2023 World Championships, will also compete directly in the finals. He aims to qualify for the Paris Olympics by achieving a mark of 85.50m.

According to Indian athletics head coach Radhakrishnan Nair, “All those who have crossed 75m will not compete in the qualifying round on Tuesday. There are nine of them from among those who had made entries, including Neeraj and Jena. They will directly compete in the final on Wednesday.”

The remaining athletes with marks below 75m will participate in the qualifying round, with the top three joining the nine above-75m throwers in the final.

The Athletics Federation of India (AFI) is eagerly anticipating Chopra’s first competitive outing in India in three years. “The AFI is not at all surprised at Neeraj taking part in the Federation Cup. His participation in domestic events is undoubtedly a positive development for Indian athletics,” stated a senior AFI official.

Chopra has reportedly arrived in India from Doha but will only arrive in Bhubaneswar on Tuesday. Jena, the Asian Games medalist, is expected to arrive later on Monday.

Nair downplayed the injury sustained by men’s 4x400m relay squad member Rajesh Ramesh, who withdrew during the second leg of the first round qualifying heat in the Bahamas earlier this month. Ramesh was replaced by Arokia Rajiv, who was also not fully fit, in the second round of the Olympic qualifying heat, and the Indian team secured a Paris ticket.

“Ramesh’s injury is not a hamstring pull, it’s related to a tendon in the thigh. So, it is not a major injury. He is expected to start training in 10-15 days. Rajiv will also be alright soon,” Nair said. “There should not be any problem in Olympics preparation.”

A total of 19 track and field athletes have qualified for Paris, and Nair announced that the team will train in Spala, Poland, for four weeks before traveling to Paris for the Olympics. Track and field events commence on August 1st.

“The team will train in Spala before Olympics and we will reach Paris three or four days before the competition starts,” he said.

The AFI remains hopeful of the mixed 4x400m relay team’s Paris qualification despite its failure in the Bahamas during the World Relays. Only two slots remain available.

“Our mixed 4x400m team will take part in the Asian Relays (May 20-21 in Bangkok) and we can qualify for Paris if we run below 3 minutes 14 seconds, and we feel we can do that,” Nair added.

The AFI is reportedly preparing a strategic plan with the goal of winning multiple medals in the 2036 Olympics, regardless of whether India wins the right to host the Games.

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