Shaili Singh Targets Paris Olympics, Aims to Break National Long Jump Record

Shaili Singh Targets Paris Olympics, Aims to Break National Long Jump Record

Shaili Singh, India’s rising star in women’s long jump, has been consistently ranked among the top three in the country. However, her struggles to surpass her personal best of 6.59m, set at the 2019 World Under-20 Championships, have raised concerns.

At the recent Indian Grand Prix 1, Singh jumped 6.52m to secure the top spot. While this performance is commendable, it falls short of the Paris Olympics qualification mark of 6.86m. No Indian woman has ever achieved this distance.

Singh’s mentors, Anju Bobby George and Robert Bobby George, remain confident in her abilities. They believe she has the potential to not only qualify for her maiden Olympics but also consistently jump in the range of 6.80m.

“Qualifying by entry standard will be superb, but we are targeting the rankings route,” said Robert.

Anju believes Singh can come close to 6.86m during the qualification period. “All she needs are some minor technical adjustments. These things take time to become muscle memory, but Shaili can certainly break my national record,” she said.

Anju’s national record of 6.83m has stood for 20 years, while Singh’s best is 6.76m.

“I would back her among the current crop to break my record. If she does it at the Olympics, that’ll be a wonderful story,” Anju added.

Singh’s journey to the Paris Olympics will be a learning curve. India will also hope for strong performances from Hangzhou Asian Games silver medalist Ancy Sojan (PB 6.63) and Nayana James (PB 6.67m).

Robert is ambitious about Singh’s potential. “Our target is a top-eight finish, and even that will take a few perfect jumps from her,” he said.

To achieve this, Singh must consistently jump over 6.80m, which means 6.70m-plus jumps in training. “Usually, there’s a 10cm increment from training to competitions because we give 3-4 days of recovery time before the events. As of now, she jumps 6-60-6.65m in training.”

Robert and Anju have identified key technical areas to work on, including adjusting her center of mass before take-off and improving her hip extension.

Singh has faced challenges with injuries and illness. A lower-back injury sidelined her for nine months in 2022, and she took three months to recover from Covid-19 last year. A disappointing fifth-place finish at the Asian Games, where a bad landing led to a shoulder injury, further hindered her progress.

Despite these setbacks, Singh remains determined to achieve her Olympic dream. With the support of her mentors and her own unwavering spirit, she has the potential to make history for Indian athletics.

Sanju Samson's Controversial Dismissal Rocks Delhi Capitals vs Rajasthan Royals Clash

Sanju Samson’s Controversial Dismissal Rocks Delhi Capitals vs Rajasthan Royals Clash

Sanju Samson’s Controversial Dismissal Sparks Outrage in Delhi Capitals vs Rajasthan Royals Clash

The Indian Premier League (IPL) match between Delhi Capitals (DC) and Rajasthan Royals (RR) on Tuesday witnessed a dramatic turn of events when Sanju Samson was controversially adjudged out at a crucial juncture. The decision, which ultimately cost RR the match, has sparked widespread outrage and raised questions about umpiring standards in the tournament.

The incident occurred in the 16th over of RR’s chase when Samson smashed a Mukesh Kumar delivery to long-on. DC’s Shai Hope claimed the catch at the boundary, but replays indicated that his foot may have touched the boundary cushion. Despite this, the third umpire ruled the catch clean, leaving Samson bewildered and frustrated.

Samson, who was batting superbly on 86, protested the decision vehemently before eventually walking off the field in disappointment. The Royals’ dugout was left stunned, while DC co-owner Parth Jindal was seen celebrating animatedly in the stands.

Samson’s dismissal proved to be a turning point in the match, as RR lost momentum and eventually fell short of the target. The decision has drawn widespread criticism from fans, pundits, and former players alike, who have questioned the accuracy of the third umpire’s call.

Throughout the IPL season, there have been numerous instances of questionable umpiring decisions, including incorrect wide calls, waist-high full-tosses being ruled as legal, and controversial run-outs. These incidents have raised concerns about the quality of umpiring in the tournament and have led to calls for improved standards.

The Sanju Samson dismissal has once again highlighted the need for greater accuracy and consistency in umpiring. The IPL is one of the most prestigious cricket tournaments in the world, and it is essential that the umpires are held to the highest standards to ensure fair play and the integrity of the game.

Nadal and Djokovic's Eternal Rivalry: A Legacy of Excellence in Rome

Nadal and Djokovic’s Eternal Rivalry: A Legacy of Excellence in Rome

In 2007, the tennis world witnessed the first clash between two rising stars: Rafael Nadal and Novak Djokovic. Their quarterfinal match in Rome marked the beginning of an epic rivalry that would span decades.

Nadal, the reigning King of Clay, had already established himself as a force to be reckoned with. Djokovic, on the other hand, was rapidly ascending the ranks, having recently defeated Nadal in Miami. The anticipation for their Rome encounter was palpable.

The match lived up to the hype, with both players showcasing their exceptional athleticism and shot-making. Nadal emerged victorious with a 6-2, 6-3 scoreline, but the numbers failed to capture the intensity and drama of the contest.

Over the years, Nadal and Djokovic’s rivalry has evolved into one of the greatest in tennis history. They have faced off 59 times, with Djokovic holding a slight edge of 30-29. Their matches have been characterized by relentless rallies, breathtaking shot-making, and a constant push to outdo each other.

Rome has been a particularly significant stage for their rivalry. Nadal has won 10 titles in the Italian capital, while Djokovic has claimed six. Their matches in Rome have often served as a barometer for their form ahead of the French Open.

Certain matches stand out as particularly memorable. In 2009, their first set in Rome went to a tiebreaker, showcasing their incredible consistency and determination. In 2011, Djokovic broke Nadal’s 48-match win streak in Rome, demonstrating his growing dominance. In 2016, they played one of their most thrilling encounters, with Djokovic prevailing in a nail-biting 7-5, 7-6 (4) victory.

Their most recent meeting in Rome came in 2021, with Nadal winning in three sets. Despite their advancing age, both players continue to inspire and push each other to new heights.

In the annals of tennis history, the Nadal-Djokovic rivalry will forever be remembered as one of the most captivating and enduring. Their matches in Rome have been a testament to their greatness and have left an indelible mark on the sport.

9-Year-Old Equestrian Prodigy Aurum Lakshmi Tokas Shines at Delhi Horse Show

9-Year-Old Equestrian Prodigy Aurum Lakshmi Tokas Shines at Delhi Horse Show

The Delhi Horse Show 2024 witnessed the meteoric rise of a young equestrian prodigy, nine-year-old Aurum Lakshmi Tokas. Hailing from Verdinand Equestrian Academy, Aurum’s exceptional talent and unwavering dedication were on full display as she amassed an astonishing 16 medals. Her triumph not only solidifies her status as a future equestrian star but also serves as a testament to the immense potential that lies within India’s young riding talents.

The Delhi Horse Show is an annual equestrian extravaganza that attracts the nation’s finest riders. This year’s edition was no different, featuring a plethora of talented athletes. However, amidst the established names, young Aurum stole the show. Her exceptional skills and unwavering determination were evident in every performance.

Aurum’s success story would be incomplete without mentioning her equine partner, Kenwood. This eight-year-old Dutch Warmblood proved to be the perfect match for Aurum. Their bond transcended mere partnership; it was an affirmation of mutual trust and a shared passion for the sport. Throughout the competition, their synchronised movements and flawless execution in the arena were a sight to behold, a true reflection of the countless hours spent training together.

Horse riding is a sport that transcends gender barriers. It’s a level playing field where talent, discipline, and determination are the true hallmarks of success. Aurum’s journey is a shining example of this. Regardless of her young age and gender, she dominated the competition. While the sport presents its own set of physical challenges, the rewards are equally enriching. The sense of freedom experienced while galloping across the course, the deep connection forged with a magnificent horse, and the exhilaration of competition combine to make horse riding a truly unique and fulfilling pursuit.

Aurum’s remarkable accomplishment is a direct result of the countless hours she’s spent honing her skills in the saddle. Her commitment is a marker of inspiration for aspiring riders of all ages. She embodies the spirit of perseverance, a testament to the fact that with relentless hard work and a never-say-die attitude, even the most ambitious dreams can be realised.

Behind every successful rider lies a strong support system, and Aurum is no exception. She expresses her deepest gratitude for the encouragement she receives from her loved ones, their constant support fuelling her passion and propelling her forward. Additionally, she acknowledges the significant role played by Mount Carmel School in nurturing her talent. The supportive environment fostered by the school has been instrumental in providing Aurum with the platform she needs to pursue her equestrian dreams.

Kenwood, Aurum’s equine partner, belongs to the Dutch Warmblood breed, renowned for their athleticism, versatility, and gentle temperament. These qualities make Dutch Warmbloods highly sought-after companions in the world of equestrian sports. Their inherent grace, agility, and willingness to please make them ideal partners for riders like Aurum, who value exceptional performance and a deep connection with their horses.

Aurum’s upward graph at the Delhi Horse Show is a true source of inspiration. Her achievements at such a young age are a powerful reminder that any dream can be realised with talent, tenacity and the right support system. The equestrian community eagerly awaits to witness Aurum’s future accomplishments as she continues to blaze a trail and shine brightly in the world of horse riding. Her story is not just about winning medals; it’s about the dedication, passion, and unique bond between a rider and their horse – a story that will undoubtedly inspire a new generation of riders to take to the saddle and chase their own equestrian dreams.

Mohammad Amir's Ireland Visa Delay Puts T20I Series Participation in Doubt

Mohammad Amir’s Ireland Visa Delay Puts T20I Series Participation in Doubt

Mohammad Amir’s absence from Pakistan’s tour of Ireland has raised concerns about his participation in the upcoming T20I series. The left-arm pacer, who holds permanent residency in the United Kingdom, applied for an Ireland visa alongside his teammates. However, while the rest of the squad received their visas before departing for Dublin on Tuesday, Amir’s application remained pending.

The Pakistan Cricket Board (PCB) has been in contact with Cricket Ireland regarding the issue, emphasizing that it is the host board’s responsibility to facilitate and provide visas for the visiting team in a timely manner. Given the short duration of the tour, with Pakistan scheduled to play three T20Is from May 10 to 14, Amir’s involvement in the series is now in jeopardy.

As of now, there is no information on when Amir’s visa is expected to be approved. Mohammad Yousaf, a member of Pakistan’s management team, also experienced a delay in his visa approval but managed to receive it just in time to join the squad. It is unclear whether Amir’s visa delay is related to the timing of his application, although the PCB maintains that he applied simultaneously with the rest of the team.

Amir has previously visited Ireland as part of Pakistan’s squad for the country’s inaugural Test match in Malahide in 2018. After retiring from international cricket in 2020, he reversed his decision earlier this year and made his return in the recently concluded home series against New Zealand.

The Pakistan squad is expected to arrive in Dublin on Wednesday morning, with all three T20Is scheduled to be played at the same venue. Following the Ireland tour, Pakistan will travel to the UK for four T20Is ahead of the World Cup in the USA and the West Indies.

Josh Little to Miss Ireland's T20I Series for IPL Commitment

Josh Little to Miss Ireland’s T20I Series for IPL Commitment

Josh Little, Ireland’s star fast bowler, will remain with the Gujarat Titans in the Indian Premier League (IPL) until their final group match on May 16. This decision has been made with the approval of Cricket Ireland, allowing Little to miss Ireland’s upcoming T20I series against Pakistan and tri-series in the Netherlands.

Little’s absence from the Ireland squad is a significant blow as they prepare for the T20 World Cup in June. However, Cricket Ireland has allowed him to stay with the Titans due to his impressive performances in the IPL. In his first appearance of the season, Little took 4 for 45 against the Chennai Super Kings.

Ireland’s provisional 15-man squad for the World Cup remains unchanged from the one that faced Afghanistan in their recent T20I series. The squad will face Pakistan in three T20Is, starting in Dublin on Friday, and then play a tri-series with Netherlands and Scotland from May 19-24.

Paul Stirling, Ireland’s white-ball captain, will appear at his eighth successive T20 World Cup. He is the fifth-highest run-scorer in men’s T20I history and has played a crucial role in Ireland’s success in the tournament.

The squad has undergone minor changes since 2022, when Ireland reached the Super 12s. Ross Adair, Neil Rock, and Ben White have been added to the squad, while Stephen Doheny, Fionn Hand, Conor Olphert, and Simi Singh have been omitted.

“The squad is one that we have gradually developed and tested out over the last 18 or so months,” said Heinrich Malan, Ireland’s coach. “We have an intensive block of T20 cricket coming up this month ahead of the T20 World Cup, and we will be aiming to win as many of those games as possible.”

Ireland will begin their T20 World Cup campaign against India on June 5 and will face Canada, USA, and Pakistan in the group stage.

Jake Fraser McGurk Makes IPL History with Three 20-Ball Half-Centuries

Jake Fraser McGurk Makes IPL History with Three 20-Ball Half-Centuries

Delhi Capitals’ Jake Fraser McGurk has etched his name in the history books of the Indian Premier League (IPL) by becoming the first player to achieve three half-centuries in 20 balls or less. The Australian sensation accomplished this remarkable feat during Delhi’s match against Rajasthan Royals at the Arun Jaitley Stadium in Delhi.

McGurk’s blistering knock of 50 off 20 deliveries, adorned with seven fours and three sixes, propelled him to a strike rate of 250.00. In a single over bowled by Avesh Khan, a reserve bowler in India’s T20 World Cup squad, McGurk unleashed a barrage of boundaries, scoring 28 runs off six balls.

Prior to McGurk’s historic achievement, several other IPL stars had registered two half-centuries in 20 balls or less, including Yashasvi Jaiswal, Nicholas Pooran, KL Rahul, Ishan Kishan, Kieron Pollard, Sunil Narine, and Travis Head. However, McGurk’s three such knocks in a single season set him apart as a truly exceptional talent.

In the ongoing IPL season, McGurk has amassed 309 runs at an impressive average of 44.14 and a remarkable strike rate of 235.87. His tally includes four half-centuries, with his highest score being 84. He has also struck 30 fours and 26 sixes, showcasing his power-hitting prowess.

Within the powerplay itself, McGurk has been a force to reckon with, scoring 245 runs in just 96 balls at an average of 61.2 and a strike rate of 255.20. His powerplay exploits include 29 fours and 19 sixes.

Notably, McGurk is the only Delhi Capitals batter to have scored a half-century within the powerplay in six overs, a feat he has achieved twice, against Sunrisers Hyderabad and Mumbai Indians.

In the match against Rajasthan Royals, Delhi Capitals won the toss and elected to bat first. McGurk’s blistering knock set the tone for Delhi’s innings, which ended with a total of 220/5. Rajasthan Royals, in response, fell short by 15 runs, handing Delhi Capitals a crucial victory.

Tennis Power Couple Paula Badosa and Stefanos Tsitsipas Split

Tennis Power Couple Paula Badosa and Stefanos Tsitsipas Split

Paula Badosa and Stefanos Tsitsipas: A Tennis Power Couple’s Split

The tennis world was rocked by the news of Paula Badosa and Stefanos Tsitsipas’s breakup, ending their year-long relationship. The former world No. 2 and No. 3, respectively, had been a high-profile couple, sharing their love on social media and supporting each other’s careers.

Badosa, speaking after her victory at the Internazionali BNL d’Italia, expressed her emotions about the split. “It hasn’t been easy, but I’m a strong person,” she said. “I’m proud of how I’m handling it.”

The couple’s relationship had been a whirlwind, with their public announcement during the 2023 Roland Garros. They quickly became known as “Tsitsidosa,” a testament to their love and support for each other. However, Badosa acknowledged that the timing may not have been right.

“When we were great, the relationship was great,” she reflected. “But sometimes, it’s better to separate ways.”

Tsitsipas had previously spoken about his support for Badosa during her injury-plagued year. “I’m trying to find the right words,” he said in March. “I’m just there as much as I can to keep making her feel good.”

Badosa announced the split on social media, emphasizing that it was an amicable decision. “We have a great relationship,” she said. “He’s a great guy, and I wish him the best.”

On the tennis front, Badosa is cautiously optimistic about her recovery from a back injury. She has undergone a cortisone injection and is feeling pain-free for the first time in months. “It’s a rollercoaster,” she admitted. “But I have the best team next to me, and I’m confident it’ll be okay.”

Badosa will face Emma Navarro in the second round of the Internazionali BNL d’Italia, as she continues her journey on and off the court.

Yuzvendra Chahal Becomes First Indian Bowler to Capture 350 T20 Wickets

Yuzvendra Chahal Becomes First Indian Bowler to Capture 350 T20 Wickets

Yuzvendra Chahal: The First Indian Bowler to Conquer 350 T20 Wickets

Yuzvendra Chahal, the enigmatic leg-spinner from Rajasthan Royals, has etched his name in the annals of T20 cricket history by becoming the first Indian bowler to capture 350 wickets. This remarkable milestone, achieved during the IPL match against Delhi Capitals, is a testament to his exceptional skill and unwavering consistency in the shortest format of the game.

Chahal’s journey to this record-breaking feat has been marked by a series of match-winning performances for both the Indian national team and various T20 leagues around the world. His ability to outsmart batsmen with his deceptive leg-spin has made him a formidable force in T20 matches.

Chahal’s rise to prominence began with his impressive performances for the Royal Challengers Bangalore in the IPL. His ability to control the flow of runs and pick up crucial wickets earned him a place in the Indian T20I team in 2016. Since then, he has been a mainstay in the national side, playing a pivotal role in India’s success in major tournaments.

In the IPL, Chahal has been a consistent performer for both RCB and Rajasthan Royals. His ability to adapt to different conditions and outwit batsmen with his variations has made him one of the most sought-after bowlers in the tournament.

Chahal’s success in T20 cricket stems from his exceptional control and accuracy. He possesses a wide range of deliveries, including the traditional leg-break, the googly, and the slider. His ability to mix up his pace and trajectory makes it difficult for batsmen to predict his next move.

Off the field, Chahal is known for his jovial nature and infectious enthusiasm. His positive attitude and camaraderie with his teammates have made him a popular figure among fans and fellow players alike.

Yuzvendra Chahal’s achievement of 350 T20 wickets is a testament to his hard work, dedication, and unwavering passion for the game. He has established himself as one of the most successful bowlers in the shortest format of cricket, and his legacy will continue to inspire generations of aspiring spinners.

Bhosale and Hourigan Triumph in Fukuoka Doubles Pre-Quarterfinals

Bhosale and Hourigan Triumph in Fukuoka Doubles Pre-Quarterfinals

Rutuja Bhosale and Paige Hourigan, a formidable doubles duo, showcased their exceptional skills at the $60,000 ITF women’s tennis tournament in Fukuoka, Japan. The pair secured a convincing 6-4, 6-3 victory over Mananchaya Sawangkaew and Eri Shimizu in the doubles pre-quarterfinals.

Bhosale and Hourigan displayed remarkable teamwork and court coverage throughout the match. Their aggressive baseline play and precise volleys kept their opponents on the back foot. The Indian-New Zealand duo broke their opponents’ serve twice in the first set and once in the second set, demonstrating their dominance.

In other matches, Karan Singh of India continued his impressive run at the $15,000 ITF men’s tournament in Monastir, Tunisia. He defeated Samir Reguig of Algeria in straight sets, 6-1, 7-5, in the first round.

Meanwhile, in the $25,000 ITF women’s tournament in Platja D’Aro, Spain, the Spanish duo of Celia Sanchez and Charo Banuls advanced to the doubles pre-quarterfinals with a 7-6(5), 6-1 victory over Sharmada Balu and Sowjanya Bavisetti.

In the $15,000 ITF women’s tournament in Kursumlijska Banja, Serbia, the Serbian pair of Mila Masic and Nikol Palecek secured a 6-2, 6-1 win over Prathyusha Rachapudi and Lucia Tognoni in the doubles pre-quarterfinals.

These results highlight the growing talent and competitiveness in the international tennis circuit. Players from various countries are making their mark, showcasing their skills and determination on the court.

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