Betts Shines at Shortstop, Treinen Injured in Dodgers' Win

Betts Shines at Shortstop, Treinen Injured in Dodgers’ Win

Los Angeles Dodgers’ Mookie Betts is transitioning smoothly to shortstop, showcasing his defensive prowess in a 7-1 victory over the Texas Rangers. Despite a minor interference error, Betts handled his grounder cleanly and went 1 for 3 at the plate. The move to shortstop was prompted by Gavin Lux’s throwing struggles.

Meanwhile, reliever Blake Treinen’s outing was cut short after a line drive struck him in the ribs. Treinen exited the game in pain but walked off the field without assistance. X-rays will determine the extent of his injury.

The Oakland Athletics, preparing for their move to Las Vegas in 2028, concluded their exhibition series against Milwaukee with a 4-2 victory. The games were played at Las Vegas Ballpark, the future home of Oakland’s Triple-A affiliate. The A’s are exploring stadium options for the 2025-27 period, including an extension in Oakland or relocation to Salt Lake City or Sacramento.

New York Yankees catcher Jose Trevino is set to make his spring debut after recovering from a calf injury. However, infielder Oswald Peraza will miss six to eight weeks due to a right shoulder strain. Peraza expressed disappointment but vowed to fight his way back.

Miami Marlins ace Sandy Alcántara has begun throwing for the first time since undergoing Tommy John surgery five months ago. The 28-year-old is progressing well and could be ahead of schedule in his recovery.

The Philadelphia Phillies have agreed to terms with several pre-arbitration players, including Bryson Stott, Brandon Marsh, and Cristopher Sánchez. Stott and Marsh are key contributors to the team’s offense, while Sánchez is a promising young pitcher.

The Texas Rangers have claimed José Barrero off waivers from the Cincinnati Reds. Barrero, who was the Reds’ opening-day shortstop in 2023, will provide depth to the Rangers’ infield.

Marcus Smith's Drop-Goal Stuns Ireland, Ends Grand Slam Hopes

Marcus Smith’s Drop-Goal Stuns Ireland, Ends Grand Slam Hopes

England’s Marcus Smith delivered a dramatic last-ditch drop-goal to secure a thrilling 23-22 victory over Ireland at Twickenham, ending the reigning Six Nations champions’ hopes of a successive Grand Slam.

Despite trailing 17-8 early in the second half, England rallied with tries from George Furbank and Ben Earl to take a 20-17 lead. Ireland’s James Lowe scored his second try to edge the visitors ahead, but Smith’s late heroics snatched victory for the hosts.

England dominated the first half, with Ollie Lawrence scoring the only try. However, Ireland’s Jack Crowley kept them in the game with four penalties, giving them a 12-8 halftime lead.

After Lowe’s early second-half try, England responded with Furbank’s score. Peter O’Mahony’s sin-binning proved costly for Ireland as Earl crossed for England’s third try.

Lowe’s second try in the 73rd minute seemed to have sealed Ireland’s victory, but Crowley’s missed conversion proved crucial. England refused to give up and Smith’s drop-goal in the dying moments secured a memorable triumph.

The victory revives England’s title hopes after their defeat to Scotland last time out. Ireland can still retain their crown with a win at home to Scotland next Saturday.

WSPS World Cup Rocked by LOC Internal Strife

WSPS World Cup Rocked by LOC Internal Strife

The World Shooting Para Sport (WSPS) World Cup in India has been marred by internal strife within the Local Organizing Committee (LOC). Deepa Malik, the LOC head and former Paralympic Committee of India (PCI) president, has accused Gursharan Singh’s wife, Lata Singh, of interfering in the event’s opening ceremony.

In a letter to PCI, the Sports Authority of India, and the union sports ministry, Malik detailed Lata Singh’s alleged violations. She claimed that Lata Singh presented herself as an official, controlled the broadcasting team, disrupted camerapersons, and entered restricted areas. Malik also accused her of interfering in an official interaction between senior WSPS officials.

Malik’s letter cited a PCI executive committee meeting in January where concerns were raised about Lata Singh’s “interference” in PCI matters. It was decided that no family member of any governing board member would be entrusted with any responsibility.

Responding to the allegations, Gursharan Singh defended his wife’s actions. He claimed that she was merely assisting volunteers and had the necessary accreditation. He questioned Malik’s implication that Lata Singh was not allowed to attend the competition venue.

The internal conflict within the LOC has raised concerns about the smooth running of the WSPS World Cup. Malik has urged Gursharan Singh to advise his wife to refrain from interfering in official proceedings. The PCI has yet to respond to Malik’s letter.

The allegations of interference have cast a shadow over the event, which is intended to showcase the skills of para-athletes from around the world. The WSPS World Cup is a qualifying event for the 2024 Paralympic Games in Paris.

Top Wrestlers Headline Selection Trials for Paris Olympics Qualifiers

Top Wrestlers Headline Selection Trials for Paris Olympics Qualifiers

The upcoming two-day selection trials for the Paris Olympic qualifiers and Asian Championships will feature India’s top wrestlers, including Bajrang Punia, Ravi Dahiya, and Vinesh Phogat. The trials will be conducted by an ad hoc panel in Sonepat and Patiala.

Initially, United World Wrestling (UWW) had raised concerns about accepting India’s entries for the competitions due to the suspension of the Wrestling Federation of India (WFI) by the sports ministry. However, after a Delhi High Court hearing, the ad hoc panel was authorized to hold the trials.

To ensure official status for the trials and clear India’s entry for the tournaments, WFI has agreed to send officials and coaches to monitor the proceedings. The trials for Greco-Roman and freestyle wrestlers will take place in Sonepat on Sunday, while the women’s trials will be held in Patiala on Monday.

Winners in the Olympic weight categories will represent India in the Asian Olympic Qualifiers and World Olympic Qualifiers. Runners-up will compete in the Asian Championships.

Several top wrestlers are returning from injuries, including Ravi Dahiya, Anshu Malik, and Sonam Malik. Antim Panghal, the only Indian to secure an Olympic quota, has received a direct entry to the Asian Championships.

Bajrang Punia, a Tokyo Olympics silver medalist, will need to win the trials to qualify for the Asian Olympic Qualifiers. Vinesh Phogat, who underwent knee surgery, will face a fitness test in Patiala.

Ravi Dahiya and Aman Sehrawat will compete in the 57kg category, while Yash and Sagar Jaglan will battle for the 74kg berth. Deepak Punia remains the favorite in the 86kg category.

In the women’s 59kg class, Anshu Malik and Sarita Mor will face off. Both are world championships medalists, with Malik having defeated Mor at the National Championships in Jaipur.

The selection trials will be crucial for wrestlers aiming to represent India at the Paris Olympics. The trials will provide an opportunity to assess their form and fitness and determine who will represent the country in the upcoming international competitions.

Over-Age Athletes Detected at National Junior Athletics Championships

Over-Age Athletes Detected at National Junior Athletics Championships

Eight Over-Age Athletes Detected at National Junior Athletics Championships

On the penultimate day of the 22nd National Junior U20 Federation Athletics Championships, eight athletes were reportedly found to be over the age limit. Their results have been withheld, and they have undergone bone tests at a local hospital.

In addition, an athlete who won a silver medal was discovered to have participated under a different name using a fake Aadhar card. An expert committee of the Athletics Federation of India (AFI) and the Uttar Pradesh Athletics Association (UPAA) is investigating these cases.

“Eight athletes have been found over age based on their certificates and physical appearances,” said PK Srivastava, CEO of UPAA. “Bone tests have been conducted, and the results are pending.”

“The results of these athletes will be released only after the bone test results are available. If any of them have qualified for the Asian Championships in Dubai next month, they will be allowed to participate only if they pass the tests,” he added.

AFI has implemented age verification measures for the U20 championships this year. The committee found that the eight athletes had manipulated their certificates and had different ages according to their Aadhar cards and other documents. They were allowed to participate temporarily, but their results are subject to the bone test outcomes.

National Records Set

Odisha’s Bapi Hansda set a meet record in the men’s 400m, clocking 46.90 seconds. Haryana’s Aarti won the women’s 10,000m race walk event with a national record time of 47:21.04. Both athletes have achieved the qualifying standards for the Asian Championships.

Hussamuddin Loses Comeback Bout in Olympic Boxing Qualifier

Hussamuddin Loses Comeback Bout in Olympic Boxing Qualifier

Mohammed Hussamuddin, India’s World Championships bronze medalist, made a disappointing return to competitive boxing after an injury lay-off, losing 0-4 to Ireland’s Jude Gallagher in the men’s 57kg clash at the 1st World Olympic Boxing Qualifier in Busto Arsizio, Italy.

Hussamuddin, who had earlier received a first-round bye, was competing for the first time since the 2023 World Championships quarterfinals when he injured his left knee. He took some time to settle in, allowing his opponent, Birmingham CWG champion Gallagher, to take a lead with his technical prowess.

The youngster used speed and agility to his advantage, pocketing the first round 5-0. Hussamuddin tried to cover lost ground in round two, but his comeback became even more difficult after he was handed a one-point deduction for dropping his head.

The 22-year-old Gallagher maintained his composure in the third round, preventing Hussamuddin from attacking and eventually winning the bout.

India fielded nine boxers in the competition, but only Nishant Dev (71kg) remains in the fray to seal a quota. He will be in action in the pre-quarterfinals on Sunday.

India has already secured four quotas for Paris 2024 with Nikhat Zareen (50kg), Preeti (54kg), Parveen Hooda (57kg), and Lovlina Borgohain (75kg) confirming their berths with impressive performances at the Asian Games.

Paralympic Legend Devendra Jhajharia Elected President of Paralympic Committee of India

Paralympic Legend Devendra Jhajharia Elected President of Paralympic Committee of India

Indian Paralympic legend Devendra Jhajharia has been elected as the new president of the Paralympic Committee of India (PCI). The 42-year-old javelin thrower, who has won three Paralympic medals, including two golds and a silver, takes over from Deepa Malik, a Paralympics silver medalist athlete.

Jhajharia’s election comes after a period of turmoil for the PCI. In February, the Sports Ministry suspended the government recognition of the PCI due to delays in holding elections and non-compliance with guidelines. The Sports Ministry had also criticized the PCI’s decision to hold the election on March 28 as “willful, intentional, and without any valid reason.”

Following the suspension, the PCI announced that the elections would be held on March 9 in New Delhi. The Sports Ministry subsequently revoked the suspension of the PCI with immediate effect, citing the PCI’s commitment to hosting the 2024 World Shooting Para Sport World Cup later this month.

Jhajharia’s election is a significant step for the PCI. The three-time Paralympic medalist is a respected figure in the Paralympic movement and is expected to bring stability and leadership to the organization. He has pledged to work towards the development of para-sports in India and to ensure that Indian athletes have the best possible support and opportunities to succeed at the highest level.

Crusaders Stunned by Drua, Equal Worst Start to Super Rugby Season

Crusaders Stunned by Drua, Equal Worst Start to Super Rugby Season

The Canterbury Crusaders’ dismal start to the Super Rugby Pacific season continued on Saturday as they were stunned 20-10 by the Fijian Drua in Lautoka. The seven-time defending champions have now lost their first three matches under new head coach Rob Penney, equaling their worst start to a season since the competition’s inaugural year in 1996.

The Crusaders dominated the opening 20 minutes, taking an early 10-0 lead through a try from Fijian-born winger Sevu Reece. However, the Drua gradually gained momentum and leveled the scores just before halftime with a try from winger Selestino Ravutaumada.

The second half belonged to the Drua, who took control of the game and scored two unanswered tries. Scrum-half Frank Lomani crossed the line early in the half, and fly-half Isaiah Armstrong-Ravula added a late penalty goal to seal the victory.

Captain Scott Barrett admitted that the humid conditions in Fiji played a role in the Crusaders’ error-ridden performance. “We just weren’t sharp and clinical like we’d hope,” he said. “We were clear on our game plan, it was pretty simple, but we just didn’t execute.”

The result piles more pressure on Penney, who replaced Scott Robertson as head coach after Robertson left to coach the New Zealand All Blacks. Penney’s side has now lost to the Waikato Chiefs, New South Wales Waratahs, and Drua in their opening three matches.

Meanwhile, the Wellington Hurricanes remained unbeaten with a 29-21 victory over the Auckland Blues in Wellington. Winger Josh Moorby scored two tries for the Hurricanes, while Kini Naholo and Riley Higgins also crossed the line.

The Western Force joined the Crusaders as the only other winless team after going down 22-19 to the ACT Brumbies in Canberra. The Force led 14-0 but conceded the next 22 points to the Brumbies, who have opened the season with two wins from three games.

Nichushkin's OT Winner Lifts Avalanche Past Wild

Nichushkin’s OT Winner Lifts Avalanche Past Wild

Valeri Nichushkin’s triumphant return to the Colorado Avalanche lineup after a two-month absence proved pivotal in their 2-1 overtime victory over the Minnesota Wild on Friday night. The Russian winger netted the game-winning goal just 2:32 into the extra period, capitalizing on a power play opportunity created by Kirill Kaprizov’s hooking penalty.

Nichushkin’s return marked a significant boost for the Avalanche, who have been without his scoring prowess since January 10th. His presence on the ice was immediately felt, as he showcased his signature speed and physicality.

Nathan MacKinnon continued his remarkable home point streak, extending it to 32 games with two assists. The Avalanche captain is now tied with Guy Lafleur for the third-longest home point run in NHL history.

The Avalanche’s victory was not without its challenges. The Wild, despite playing their second game in as many nights, showed resilience and determination. Devon Toews appeared to have tied the game with just over two minutes remaining in regulation, but the goal was overturned upon review for offside.

Minnesota’s Filip Gustavsson put in a valiant effort in net, making several key saves to keep his team in the game. However, Alexandar Georgiev proved to be the difference-maker, stopping a penalty shot from Mats Zuccarello late in the third period.

The Avalanche’s victory was a testament to their depth and resilience. Despite making several roster moves at the trade deadline, they were able to seamlessly integrate their new additions into the lineup. Casey Mittelstadt, Brandon Duhaime, Yakov Trenin, and Sean Walker all contributed to the team’s success.

For the Wild, the loss was a setback in their pursuit of a playoff berth. They remain on the fringe of the playoff picture, but will need to find consistency in their play to secure a spot in the postseason.

Lance Lynn Ejected in Cardinals Spring Training Debut

Lance Lynn Ejected in Cardinals Spring Training Debut

Lance Lynn’s return to the St. Louis Cardinals was marred by an early ejection in his first spring training start. The incident occurred during a game against the Washington Nationals on Friday night, when Lynn exchanged words with home plate umpire Ángel Hernández.

According to reports, the altercation began when Hernández allegedly made comments towards the Cardinals’ dugout. Lynn responded by defending his teammates, leading to a heated exchange. Hernández then ejected Lynn from the game, prompting the pitcher to throw a few more pitches in the bullpen before being ordered to leave.

Lynn’s ejection came in the third inning, which was scheduled to be his last frame. He had allowed four runs on three hits and three walks in a combined two innings of work. The Cardinals’ manager, Oliver Marmol, was also ejected during the incident.

Lynn’s ejection is a significant development for the Cardinals, who are counting on the veteran right-hander to be a key part of their rotation this season. Lynn was part of the Cardinals’ World Series title in 2011 and played his first six big league seasons with the team. He has since played with five other teams before re-signing with St. Louis in November.

The incident also highlights the ongoing controversy surrounding Hernández, who has been criticized for his umpiring decisions in the past. In 2018, he had three calls at first base overturned by video reviews during Game 3 of the AL Division Series between the New York Yankees and Boston.

Despite the ejection, Lynn remains confident in his abilities and is eager to contribute to the Cardinals’ success. He is guaranteed $11 million as part of his deal, getting $10 million this season with a $10 million team option for 2025 that includes a $1 million buyout.

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