Indian Badminton Stars Aim for French Open Glory

Indian Badminton Stars Aim for French Open Glory

Former world champions Satwiksairaj Rankireddy and Chirag Shetty will embark on their quest for a maiden French Open title at the USD 850,000 Super 750 tournament starting Tuesday. The Indian duo, ranked No. 1 in the world, have been tantalizingly close to victory in recent tournaments, finishing as runners-up at the China Masters Super 750, Malaysia Open Super 1000, and India Open Super 750 events.

The French Open will provide an opportunity for the Indian shuttlers to familiarize themselves with the conditions at the Adidas arena at Porte de la Chapelle, which will host the badminton competitions at the Paris Olympics. Rankireddy and Shetty, who won the French Open in 2022, will be the favorites to reach the weekend once again.

Two-time Olympic medalist PV Sindhu will also be in action, making her return to the circuit after four months. Sindhu, ranked No. 11 in the world, will face Canada’s Michelle Li in her opening match. A win could set up a clash with three-time former world champion Carolina Marin of Spain, their first meeting since their ill-tempered match at the Denmark Open semi-final.

In men’s singles, world No. 7 HS Prannoy will look to build on his semifinal appearance at the India Open. He will face China’s Lu Guang Zu in his opening match. Lakshya Sen, who has slipped to world No. 19, will also be in action, taking on Japan’s Kanta Tsuneyama. Former world No. 1 Kidambi Srikanth will face a tough challenge against Chinese Taipei’s Chou Tien Chen, while young Priyanshu Rajawat will have an opportunity to create an upset against world No. 1 Viktor Axelsen.

In a crucial turn of fate, two Indian women pairs — Treesa Jolly and Gayatri Gopichand, and Tanisha Crasto and Ashwini Ponnappa — who are vying for an Olympic berth, will face off in the opening round.

KL Rahul Set for IPL Return, Targets T20 World Cup Selection

KL Rahul Set for IPL Return, Targets T20 World Cup Selection

KL Rahul on Track for IPL Return, Eyes T20 World Cup Selection

Senior Indian batsman KL Rahul is expected to be fit for the upcoming Indian Premier League (IPL) season, which begins on March 22. Rahul, who missed the last three Tests against England due to a quadriceps injury, has undergone surgery and is currently undergoing rehabilitation at the BCCI’s National Cricket Academy (NCA) in Bangalore.

Rahul, the captain of the Lucknow SuperGiants, is eager to prove his worth in the IPL as he aims to earn a spot in India’s T20 World Cup team as a wicketkeeper-batsman. A source close to the player revealed that Rahul consulted top medical experts in London before returning to India on Sunday.

“He is keen to prove his worth in the IPL as he’s in line for selection in India’s T20 World Cup team as a ‘keeper-bat,” the source told TOI.

Rahul’s injury woes began during the England tour last year, where he suffered a quadriceps strain in the second Test at Lord’s. He underwent surgery in Germany in August and has been working diligently on his recovery since then.

The Lucknow SuperGiants will kick off their IPL campaign against the Rajasthan Royals at Jaipur on March 24. Rahul’s return to fitness will be a major boost for the franchise, which will be looking to make a strong impact in its debut season.

If Rahul can regain his form and fitness in the IPL, he will be a strong contender for a place in India’s T20 World Cup squad. The tournament is scheduled to be held in Australia later this year, and Rahul’s experience and leadership qualities could prove invaluable for the team.

Pat Cummins to Lead Sunrisers Hyderabad in IPL 2024

Pat Cummins to Lead Sunrisers Hyderabad in IPL 2024

Pat Cummins Appointed Captain of Sunrisers Hyderabad for IPL 2024

Pat Cummins, the Australian Test and ODI captain, has been appointed as the captain of Sunrisers Hyderabad for the upcoming Indian Premier League (IPL) 2024 season. Cummins replaces Aiden Markram, who led the team in the 2023 season.

Cummins’ appointment marks a significant shift for Sunrisers Hyderabad, as he has never captained a side in the IPL before. However, his impressive leadership credentials with the Australian national team have convinced the franchise to entrust him with the responsibility.

Under Cummins’ captaincy, Australia has achieved remarkable success in recent years. They won the World Test Championship in 2023, defeating India in the final. Cummins also led the team to victory in the 2023 ODI World Cup, cementing Australia’s status as one of the top cricketing nations in the world.

Cummins’ leadership style is characterized by his calm demeanor, strategic acumen, and ability to inspire his teammates. He is known for his meticulous planning and attention to detail, which has been instrumental in Australia’s recent triumphs.

Sunrisers Hyderabad will be hoping that Cummins can replicate his success with the Australian team at the IPL level. The franchise has struggled in recent seasons, failing to qualify for the playoffs since 2019. Cummins’ appointment is seen as a major step towards rebuilding the team and challenging for the title.

Cummins will have a talented squad at his disposal, including the likes of Kane Williamson, Bhuvneshwar Kumar, and Umran Malik. With his leadership and the team’s potential, Sunrisers Hyderabad will be one of the teams to watch in IPL 2024.

India and England Gear Up for Final Test in Dharamsala

India and England Gear Up for Final Test in Dharamsala

The highly anticipated fifth and final Test match between India and England is set to commence on March 7 in Dharamsala. Despite India’s commanding 3-1 lead in the series, both teams are determined to give it their all in the final encounter.

Ahead of the match, a video of batter Shubman Gill undergoing an intense workout at the PCA Stadium in Mohali has surfaced on social media. Gill’s dedication and focus are evident as he sprints across the ground, leaving fans impressed.

The Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI) has announced updates to India’s squad for the Dharamsala Test. Pace spearhead Jasprit Bumrah, who was rested for the fourth Test, will make his return to the team. Bumrah has been a formidable force in the series, claiming 17 wickets at an impressive average of 13.64.

However, India will be without wicket-keeper batter KL Rahul, who has been ruled out due to an injury. The BCCI Medical Team is closely monitoring his condition and coordinating with specialists in London for further management.

Meanwhile, Washington Sundar has been released from the squad to participate in the Ranji Trophy for his domestic side, Tamil Nadu.

The updated India squad for the Dharamsala Test includes:

* Rohit Sharma (capt)
* Jasprit Bumrah (vice-capt)
* Yashasvi Jaiswal
* Shubman Gill
* Rajat Patidar
* Sarfaraz Khan
* Dhruv Jurel (wk)
* KS Bharat (wk)
* Devdutt Padikkal
* R Ashwin
* Ravindra Jadeja
* Axar Patel
* Kuldeep Yadav
* Mohammed Siraj
* Mukesh Kumar
* Akash Deep

As India aims to maintain its top spot in the World Test Championship points table, England will be eager to salvage some pride in the final match. The clash promises to be an exciting and competitive affair, with both teams determined to end the series on a high note.

Dhruv Jurel: The Next MS Dhoni in the Making, Says Anil Kumble

Dhruv Jurel: The Next MS Dhoni in the Making, Says Anil Kumble

Legendary Indian spinner Anil Kumble has heaped praise on young wicketkeeper-batter Dhruv Jurel, comparing him to the legendary MS Dhoni. Jurel made a remarkable Test debut in the third match against England at Rajkot, scoring a valuable 46 off 104 balls. He followed it up with a match-winning performance in the fourth Test in Ranchi.

Kumble, speaking to JioCinema, lauded Jurel’s temperament and technique. “Dhruv Jurel certainly has all the credentials to get to where MS (Dhoni) reached in his career,” Kumble said. “He’s not just shown the temperament of his technique to defend but even when he’s attacking. Even in that first innings, he was very assured, he went after and then hit those big sixes.”

Kumble also praised Jurel’s glovework, particularly against pacers. “He has (Jurel) been exceptional, especially of the faster bowlers…He is only going to improve. This is only his second Test and I am sure as he starts playing more and more he’ll only get better. And it only augers well for India. And to have him in a squad is exceptional,” he elaborated.

Jurel’s contributions were crucial in India’s victory in the fourth Test. In the first inning, his knock of 90 runs and a 76-run partnership with Kuldeep Yadav pulled India out of a difficult situation and reduced England’s lead to just 46 runs. Later, his 39* in the second innings and partnership with Shubman Gill helped India overcome the pressure of quick wickets and pull off a tense run chase of 192 runs. He earned the ‘Player of the Match’ award for his efforts in only his second Test.

Jurel will be in action again in the fifth and final Test to be played at Dharamshala from March 7. His performances have raised expectations, and he is seen as a potential successor to Dhoni, who retired from international cricket in 2020.

O'Rourke Doubtful, Wagner Recall Possible for New Zealand in Second Test

O’Rourke Doubtful, Wagner Recall Possible for New Zealand in Second Test

New Zealand’s pace attack faces a setback as Will O’Rourke’s hamstring injury casts doubt on his availability for the second Test against Australia. Captain Tim Southee hinted at a potential recall for veteran Neil Wagner, who retired last week but remains in the squad.

Southee ruled out Trent Boult due to his recent focus on white-ball cricket. However, he left the door open for Wagner, saying, “We’ll see how Will scrubs up and we’ll go from there.”

Australia’s Pat Cummins expressed readiness for Wagner’s return, calling it “the world’s shortest retirement.” He praised the energy and short-ball prowess of the 37-year-old.

Cummins lauded Nathan Lyon and Cameron Green for their match-winning performances in the first Test. Lyon’s six-wicket haul on day four sealed Australia’s 172-run victory. Green’s career-high 174 on day one set up a decisive first-innings lead.

New Zealand’s Glenn Phillips impressed with his all-round contributions, scoring 71 in the first innings and taking 5-45 in the second. Southee and Kane Williamson will reach the milestone of 100 Tests in the second match at Hagley Oval.

The final morning of the first Test saw New Zealand collapse from 111-3 to 196 all out. Lyon’s spin proved too much for the hosts, while Green’s short-ball tactics also paid dividends.

LeBron James Becomes First NBA Player to Score 40,000 Career Points

LeBron James Becomes First NBA Player to Score 40,000 Career Points

LeBron James, the iconic NBA superstar, has etched his name in basketball history by becoming the first player to reach the remarkable milestone of 40,000 career points. This historic achievement was accomplished during the Los Angeles Lakers’ home game against the Denver Nuggets, where James showcased his exceptional skills and determination.

Prior to the game, James was just nine points shy of the coveted milestone. With the sold-out crowd eagerly anticipating the moment, he took matters into his own hands. Using a spin move to create space from Denver’s Michael Porter Jr., James drove to the basket and executed a scoop layoff off the glass, sending the crowd into a frenzy.

The roar of the crowd was deafening as James reached the historic mark, and they gave him a standing ovation when he went to the bench at the next break. The achievement was a testament to James’ longevity, consistency, and unwavering commitment to the sport.

Just over a year ago, James surpassed Lakers legend Kareem Abdul-Jabbar to become the NBA’s all-time leading scorer. Now, at 39 years old and in his 21st season, he continues to defy expectations and average around 25 points per game.

Throughout his illustrious career, James has amassed an impressive collection of accolades, including four NBA championships, four MVP awards, and four Finals MVP awards. He has also led Team USA to victory in the 2012 Olympics and is expected to participate in this year’s event in Paris.

Despite the historic milestone, James expressed disappointment that it couldn’t prevent a defeat for the Lakers. “For me, the main thing is always to win, so I hate that it happened in defeat,” he said. “Bittersweet, but I enjoyed every moment tonight on the floor.”

James acknowledged the significance of the achievement, stating, “No one has ever done it. For me to be in this position at this point and time in my career, I think it’s pretty cool.” He emphasized that while it may not be the pinnacle of his accomplishments, it holds a special place in his heart.

James also recognized the importance of longevity and good health in achieving such milestones. “You have to play the game quite a while, and have some good luck as far as injuries and that nature,” he said. “Records are always meant to be broken, but you can never say never.”

Katie Boulter Wins San Diego Open Title in Thrilling Comeback

Katie Boulter Wins San Diego Open Title in Thrilling Comeback

Katie Boulter, the British tennis star, triumphed over Marta Kostyuk of Ukraine in a thrilling three-set comeback in the final of the San Diego Open on Sunday night. The victory marks Boulter’s second career WTA singles title and her biggest to date.

The match, delayed by two hours due to rain, saw Boulter rally from a set down to claim a 5-7, 6-2, 6-2 victory. The 27-year-old from Leicester displayed resilience and determination throughout the encounter, overcoming a 5-2 deficit in the first set and never trailing in the final two sets.

Boulter’s triumph is a testament to her impressive form this week, as she defeated four seeded players in her five matches. She overcame No. 2 seed Beatriz Haddad Maia, No. 6 seed Donna Vekic, and No. 3 seed Emma Navarro en route to the final.

The victory also marks a significant milestone in Boulter’s career, as she is set to crack the world’s Top 30 for the first time on Monday. She will rise to a career-best No. 27, 21 spots higher than her previous best.

Boulter’s success in San Diego is a culmination of a successful week for one of tennis’ power couples. Her boyfriend, Alex de Minaur, won his own 500-level title in Acapulco, Mexico, less than 12 hours before Boulter’s victory.

In the post-match presentation, Boulter expressed her gratitude to the San Diego crowd and her boyfriend for their support. She also acknowledged the challenging conditions, which included rain delays and a late finish.

“I don’t even know where to begin,” Boulter said. “From the moment I walked into this club, you guys have been so warm and so helpful, and it’s been honestly a privilege to be here in San Diego.”

“I really didn’t think I’d be standing here with a trophy right now, but I just want to say thank you to everyone who’s been here and made it feel like home. Even the weather has made it feel a little bit like home.”

Boulter’s victory is a testament to her talent and determination. She has overcome injuries and setbacks in her career, and her success in San Diego is a reward for her hard work and perseverance.

India vs Pakistan T20 World Cup Tickets Soar to Record Highs in Resale Market

India vs Pakistan T20 World Cup Tickets Soar to Record Highs in Resale Market

India vs Pakistan T20 World Cup 2024 Tickets Skyrocket in Resale Market

The highly anticipated T20 World Cup 2024 match between India and Pakistan has sparked a frenzy in the ticket market, with prices reaching astronomical figures on resale platforms.

The official ticket sale offered prices ranging from $6 to $400, with the most expensive seats for the India-Pakistan encounter priced at $400. However, on resale sites like StubHub and SeatGeek, prices have soared to unprecedented levels.

Tickets originally priced at $400 are now being sold for a staggering $40,000, with platform fees pushing the total cost to $50,000. This exceeds the average ticket price for Super Bowl 58 ($9,000) and courtside seats for NBA finals ($24,000).

On SeatGeek, the costliest ticket for the India-Pakistan match has been listed for an astonishing $175,000. With platform charges and additional fees, the total cost balloons to approximately $1.86 crore.

The high demand for tickets reflects the intense rivalry between India and Pakistan, which has made their encounters some of the most eagerly anticipated events in cricket. The fact that the two teams rarely play bilateral series due to political tensions further fuels the excitement and demand for tickets.

The astronomical prices have raised concerns about accessibility for fans who may not be able to afford the exorbitant resale prices. However, the high demand is unlikely to diminish, as the India-Pakistan match remains one of the most sought-after events in the cricketing world.

Lindsey Vonn Declares Novak Djokovic as GOAT, Reignites Debate

Lindsey Vonn Declares Novak Djokovic as GOAT, Reignites Debate

Celebrity tennis enthusiast Lindsey Vonn has reignited the “Greatest of All Time” (GOAT) debate, this time expressing her admiration for Novak Djokovic. Vonn, who previously sparked controversy by declaring Roger Federer as the GOAT, took to social media to clarify her stance.

In a recent post, Vonn shared a selfie with Djokovic, accompanied by a caption that read, “Hanging with the [goat emoji], and yes, I do believe he is the goat.” She emphasized that she believes there can be multiple GOATs, but Djokovic’s record-breaking achievements and his skiing abilities earn him the title.

Djokovic’s recent tour of California has included encounters with other celebrities. He and his wife, Jelena, attended an NBA game where they witnessed Nikola Jokic lead the Denver Nuggets to victory over LeBron James and the Los Angeles Lakers. Djokovic also visited the LA Galaxy FC soccer match and trained with the UCLA tennis and football teams.

Djokovic expressed his admiration for both LeBron James and Nikola Jokic, calling them “great” and “amazing,” respectively. Jokic, in turn, praised Djokovic as a role model and a source of national pride for Serbia.

Vonn’s comments and Djokovic’s interactions with other athletes have further fueled the GOAT debate. While some fans may disagree with Vonn’s assessment, her willingness to acknowledge Djokovic’s accomplishments highlights the complexity of the GOAT discussion.

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