Wishlist0
0
Continue Shopping

 +91 91155 12977

Home / Blog (Page 732)

Blog

Barcelona Midfielders Pedri and De Jong to Miss Napoli Clash with Injuries

Barcelona Midfielders Pedri and De Jong to Miss Napoli Clash with Injuries

By March 4, 2024 0

Barcelona’s Champions League hopes have been dealt a significant blow with the news that midfielders Pedri and Frenkie de Jong are set to miss the second leg clash against Napoli due to injuries.

De Jong suffered a right ankle sprain in Sunday’s goalless draw at Athletic Bilbao, while Pedri picked up a new injury to his right hamstring. The club has not specified the duration of their absence, but both players could be out for more than a month.

This is a major setback for Barcelona, who are already without Sergio Busquets due to suspension. Pedri and De Jong have been key figures in Xavi Hernandez’s team this season, and their absence will be a significant blow to the team’s chances of progressing in the Champions League.

De Jong has been sidelined earlier this season with a right ankle injury, while Pedri has been plagued by right thigh problems. This is the third time Pedri has suffered a right thigh injury this season.

Pedri is also expected to miss Spain’s international friendlies against Colombia in London on March 22 and Brazil at Santiago Bernabeu four days later.

“They are two very influential players in our game, two very important players. We will miss them,” said Xavi after the draw at Bilbao.

Barcelona will host Napoli on March 12 in the second leg of their Champions League last 16 tie. The first leg ended in a 1-1 draw, so the tie is finely poised.

Without Pedri and De Jong, Barcelona will have to find a way to replace their creativity and energy in midfield. Gavi, Nico Gonzalez, and Riqui Puig are all options for Xavi, but none of them have the same experience or quality as Pedri and De Jong.

The injuries to Pedri and De Jong are a major blow to Barcelona’s hopes of winning the Champions League this season. The Catalans have not won the competition since 2015, and they will need to be at their best to overcome Napoli and progress to the quarter-finals.

Categories: Football
Read more
Manika Batra's Unwavering Determination Fuels Olympic Preparations

Manika Batra’s Unwavering Determination Fuels Olympic Preparations

By March 4, 2024 0

Manika Batra, India’s top-ranked table tennis player, reflects on her recent victory against Chen Szu-Yu of Chinese Taipei. While the match may not have been her most impressive performance, it showcased her unwavering determination and ability to fight for every point.

Batra’s victory came after she found herself trailing 2-1 in the match. However, she remained composed and positive, eventually nudging ahead in the deciding game. This mindset is crucial for success in table tennis, as every point counts.

As Batra prepares for the upcoming Paris Olympics, where she will compete in the team, singles, and mixed doubles events, she aims to bring this same level of determination to every match. She recognizes that her physical fitness will be key to handling the demanding workload.

Batra’s sparring partner, Kirill Barabanov, has played a significant role in her development. He has instilled in her the belief that she can turn any match around, regardless of the score. This confidence has been instrumental in her recent successes.

While Batra continues to refine her skills, she also emphasizes the importance of physical training. She plans to focus on building stamina and recovery to ensure she is physically prepared for the challenges ahead.

Despite the success of her pimpled rubber technique, Batra is constantly seeking ways to improve her game. She is working on enhancing her attacking forehand play to keep opponents guessing.

Batra’s unwavering determination, positive mindset, and commitment to physical training make her a formidable opponent. As she prepares for the Paris Olympics, she is confident in her ability to deliver strong performances and contribute to India’s success.

Categories: Badminton
Read more
Angelo Mathews' Controversial Dismissal Sparks Controversy in Bangladesh-Sri Lanka Series

Angelo Mathews’ Controversial Dismissal Sparks Controversy in Bangladesh-Sri Lanka Series

By March 4, 2024 0

During the 2023 ODI World Cup, a controversial dismissal of Sri Lanka’s Angelo Mathews sparked a heated debate. Mathews was ruled “timed out” in a crucial match against Bangladesh, igniting a storm of controversy.

The incident occurred in the 25th over when Mathews arrived at the crease after Sadeera Samarawickrama’s dismissal. However, he realized he had the wrong helmet and attempted to rectify the situation with the Bangladesh players and umpires.

Mathews indicated that the helmet strap had come off, but the damage had been done. Bangladesh appealed for a “timed out,” and despite Mathews’ animated protests, the appeal was not withdrawn.

Mathews’ frustration was evident as he threw his helmet in anger after leaving the field. Later, while bowling, he took the wicket of Bangladesh captain Shakib al Hasan and gestured towards his watch, a symbolic reference to the controversial dismissal.

The incident resurfaced during a T20I match between the two teams in Sylhet, where Shoriful Islam mimicked Mathews’ gesture after dismissing Sri Lanka’s Avishka Fernando.

The series between Bangladesh and Sri Lanka is seen as crucial preparation for the upcoming World Cup in June. Bangladesh has never defeated Sri Lanka in a T20 series, adding to the significance of this encounter.

Categories: Cricket
Read more
Tamil Nadu's Batting Gamble Backfires in Ranji Trophy Semi-Final

Tamil Nadu’s Batting Gamble Backfires in Ranji Trophy Semi-Final

By March 4, 2024 0

Tamil Nadu’s decision to bat first in the Ranji Trophy semi-final against Mumbai backfired spectacularly, as they suffered a humiliating innings defeat. Skipper R. Sai Kishore defended his choice, citing his instincts and past success with the strategy. However, coach Sulakshan Kulkarni strongly criticized the decision, stating that the team should have bowled first on a seamer-friendly pitch.

Kulkarni pointed out that Tamil Nadu had planned to field three seamers and drop a batter if they won the toss. He believed that bowling first would have given them an advantage, but Sai Kishore’s decision to bat first proved costly.

Despite Sai Kishore’s six wickets, the lack of support from other bowlers and the batters’ inability to adapt to the conditions led to Tamil Nadu’s downfall. Kulkarni acknowledged that Sai Kishore was the team’s best bowler, but he felt that left-arm spinner S. Ajith Ram was underutilized.

Despite the disappointment, Kulkarni praised the team’s efforts this season, highlighting the performances of batters who scored over 500 runs and Indrajith’s crucial knocks. He expressed satisfaction with reaching the semifinals but acknowledged that a trophy would have been the ultimate goal.

Categories: Cricket
Read more
Sakshi Malik Retires from Wrestling Amid Ongoing Protest Against Sexual Harassment

Sakshi Malik Retires from Wrestling Amid Ongoing Protest Against Sexual Harassment

By March 4, 2024 0

Olympic bronze medalist Sakshi Malik has announced her permanent retirement from competitive wrestling, citing the ongoing protest against former Wrestling Federation of India (WFI) chief Brij Bhushan Sharan Singh for alleged sexual harassment. Malik, along with fellow Olympic medalists Bajrang Punia and Vinesh Phogat, has been leading the protest for over a year, demanding Singh’s removal and arrest.

Malik’s decision to retire stems from the mental anguish she has endured during the protest. “It’s been more than a year, there is so much mental pressure and we have been trying to fight in every possible way to make this protest a success, so I’ll not be able to continue wrestling,” she said.

Despite her retirement, Malik remains committed to the cause of women’s empowerment in sports. “I got (Olympic) bronze for India and I want my juniors to get silver and gold. I would love to see each and every girl in India pursuing her dreams,” she added.

Malik, Punia, and Phogat have continued their protest even after Singh’s removal as WFI head, alleging that the new president, Sanjay Singh, is merely a figurehead and that Singh still wields significant influence. Malik’s refusal to come out of retirement rules her out of this month’s national trials for the Olympic qualifiers.

The WFI was recently granted a reprieve when the provisional suspension on it was lifted by United World Wrestling (UWW) on the condition that the protesting wrestlers would be invited for all trials and there would be no discrimination. However, Malik remains skeptical, stating, “Many people have told me to continue but I don’t want to wrestle among people like Brij Bhushan. It feels bad when you see him walking around freely. It seems he is still in control.”

Malik has personally experienced harassment and is determined to prevent others from facing similar experiences. “I have not just heard about these incidents, I have personally experienced the harassment. I have given up wrestling but youngsters are hoping that our movement will boot out people like Brij Bhushan. We have done everything we could.”

She appealed to the government to ensure that individuals associated with Singh are not allowed into wrestling’s administration. “I am once again pleading with the government to ensure that people related to him are not allowed into wrestling’s administration. I will always stay positive and I am hoping for a positive outcome,” she said.

Categories: Others
Read more
Wrestlers Challenge Legality of WFI Elections, Seek Court Intervention

Wrestlers Challenge Legality of WFI Elections, Seek Court Intervention

By March 4, 2024 0

The Delhi High Court has issued notices to the Central government and the Wrestling Federation of India (WFI) in response to a petition filed by renowned wrestlers Bajrang Punia, Vinesh Phogat, Sakshi Malik, and her husband Satyawart Kadian. The petition challenges the legality of the WFI elections held in December 2023 and seeks their nullification.

The wrestlers, represented by senior advocate Rahul Mehra, allege that the elections violated the Sports Code and were conducted in a manner that undermines the integrity of the sport. They contend that the WFI has engaged in various wrongdoings, including sexual harassment and attempts to silence and sideline wrestlers who have spoken out against these abuses.

The petition specifically targets the election of Sanjay Kumar Singh, a close associate of former WFI chief Brij Bhushan Sharan Singh, as the new president. The wrestlers argue that this election was orchestrated to maintain the influence of Singh, who has been accused of sexual harassment by seven women grapplers.

The wrestlers also accuse the WFI of defying directives from the Sports Ministry and the ad-hoc committee appointed to oversee the federation’s affairs. They claim that the WFI has continued to conduct selection trials and other activities in violation of these directives, adversely affecting the career prospects of Indian wrestlers.

The petition requests the court to declare the WFI elections void and to direct the federation to cease all activities related to wrestling. It also seeks the appointment of a retired Supreme Court judge as an administrator to take over the management of the WFI.

The court has granted time to the Central government and the WFI to respond to the petition and has scheduled a further hearing for March 7. The outcome of this case will have significant implications for the future of wrestling in India and the accountability of sports federations.

Categories: Others
Read more
MS Dhoni Drops Bombshell: Hints at 'New Role' in IPL 2024

MS Dhoni Drops Bombshell: Hints at ‘New Role’ in IPL 2024

By March 4, 2024 0

MS Dhoni Hints at ‘New Role’ in Upcoming IPL Season

Chennai Super Kings (CSK) captain MS Dhoni has sent shockwaves through the cricket world with a cryptic social media post hinting at a “new role” in the upcoming Indian Premier League (IPL) season.

On Monday, Dhoni took to Facebook to share a brief message that has sparked widespread speculation among his fans. “Can’t wait for the new season and the new ‘role’. Stay tuned!,” he wrote.

While the post did not provide any specific details about the nature of his new role, it has ignited a flurry of theories and discussions online. Some speculate that Dhoni may be stepping down as CSK captain, while others believe he could be taking on a coaching or mentoring role within the franchise.

Dhoni’s enigmatic message has left fans eagerly anticipating the upcoming IPL season, which is set to begin on March 22. CSK will open their campaign against Royal Challengers Bangalore (RCB) in Chennai.

The 41-year-old wicketkeeper-batsman has been an integral part of CSK since the inception of the IPL in 2008. He has led the team to four IPL titles, making him one of the most successful captains in the tournament’s history.

Dhoni’s decision to step away from the captaincy would be a significant development for CSK. However, it is also possible that he could remain as captain while taking on a more advisory role, similar to what he did with the Indian national team in recent years.

Whatever the nature of Dhoni’s new role, it is clear that he remains a key figure in the CSK setup. His experience and leadership will be invaluable to the team as they look to reclaim the IPL trophy in 2024.

Categories: Cricket
Read more
Indian Table Tennis Teams Qualify for Olympics for First Time Ever

Indian Table Tennis Teams Qualify for Olympics for First Time Ever

By March 4, 2024 0

Indian table tennis has reached unprecedented heights as both the men’s and women’s teams have secured historic Olympic berths for the first time based on their world rankings. This remarkable achievement marks a watershed moment for the sport in India.

After the conclusion of the World Team Championships Finals in Busan, South Korea, which served as the final qualifying event for the Paris 2024 Olympics, seven spots in the team events remained. These spots were awarded to the highest-ranked teams not yet qualified, and India emerged victorious in both the men’s and women’s categories.

In the women’s event, India, ranked 13th in the world, secured its passage to Paris alongside Poland (12th), Sweden (15th), and Thailand. The men’s team, ranked 15th, also booked its ticket to the Olympics, along with Croatia (12th) and Slovenia (11th).

This historic qualification is a testament to the unwavering determination and exceptional talent of the Indian table tennis players. Veteran Sharath Kamal, who will be making his fifth Olympic appearance, expressed his elation on Twitter, stating, “Finally!!!! India qualifies for the team event at the Olympics! Something I have wanted for a long long time! This one is truly special, despite it being my fifth appearance at the Olympics! Kudos to our Women’s Team who also secure a historical quota!”

The Indian teams had narrowly missed out on Olympic berths at the World Team Championships Finals, with the men’s team losing 0-3 to South Korea and the women’s team falling 1-3 to Chinese Taipei in the pre-quarterfinals. However, their impressive world rankings have now earned them a place on the Olympic stage.

This achievement is a significant milestone for Indian table tennis history, as it will be the first time the nation competes in the team event at the Olympics since its inception at the Beijing 2008 Games. The Indian teams will now have the opportunity to showcase their skills against the world’s best and strive for Olympic glory.

Categories: Others
Read more
Sri Lanka Selectors Prioritize Experience for T20 World Cup

Sri Lanka Selectors Prioritize Experience for T20 World Cup

By March 4, 2024 0

Sri Lanka’s selectors are prioritizing experience over youth as they finalize their squad for the upcoming T20 World Cup in June. This approach has led to the recall of Niroshan Dickwella for the T20I series in Bangladesh, following Kusal Perera’s withdrawal due to a respiratory infection.

The decision to favor experience means that promising young players like Vijayakanth Viyaskanth, Dunith Wellalage, Lasith Croospulle, and Shevon Daniel may have to wait for further opportunities with the national team. Viyaskanth, in particular, has impressed with his performances in the recent ILT20, claiming eight wickets in four games for MI Emirates at an economy rate of 5.43.

However, the selectors believe that Viyaskanth’s limited experience in international cricket (just one T20I) makes him a risk to include in the World Cup squad. “In T20s, we need a wicket-taking option, which is why we opted for Jeffrey [Vandersay] over someone like Dunith [Wellalage],” explained Upul Tharanga, the chairman of selectors. “We felt that Jeffrey was more of an attacking bowler in T20s.”

The selectors also had a lengthy discussion regarding Viyaskanth and Vandersay, with differing opinions within the committee. Ultimately, they decided to go with Vandersay’s experience, given the impending World Cup.

A similar rationale was applied to Dickwella’s selection ahead of Croospulle and Daniel. “We were looking for someone to play in the top order [with the injuries to Pathum Nissanka and Kusal Perera],” said Tharanga. “We looked at Shevon Daniel, Lasith Croospulle, and Dikka [Dickwella], but the first two are still quite young. It was difficult to pick them based purely on their most recent performances.”

Tharanga emphasized the importance of discipline within the team, acknowledging Dickwella’s past disciplinary issues. “Discipline is very important. We spoke to Dikka. The team is playing well, and we really haven’t had any issues with discipline in recent times. That’s a very important thing, it shows the unity of the team as well. Discipline needs to be the number one thing.”

Categories: Cricket
Read more
Main Menu
Home
Shop
Wishlist0
Back to Top

Search For Products

Product has been added to your cart