Ten Hag Dismisses Ronaldo's Criticism, Insists United Can Win

Ten Hag Dismisses Ronaldo’s Criticism, Insists United Can Win

Erik ten Hag has dismissed Cristiano Ronaldo’s criticism of his ambition at Manchester United, stating that the Portuguese star is “far from Manchester.” Ronaldo’s second stint at United ended in a controversial departure in November 2022, following his scathing remarks about Ten Hag.

In a recent interview, Ronaldo expressed his belief that United should be aiming to win major trophies, such as the Premier League and Champions League. He criticized Ten Hag’s negative attitude, claiming that the club needs to “rebuild everything.”

Ten Hag, however, has maintained his confidence in United’s ability to challenge for silverware. He has lifted the League Cup and FA Cup in his first two seasons at the helm, but acknowledges that the team is still in a “transition period.”

“We have to integrate a lot of young players also in the team,” Ten Hag said. “We are still dealing with injuries, we have to bring the injuries back in the team.”

Despite United’s disappointing eighth-place finish in the Premier League last season, Ten Hag insists that the team is focused on winning every game. “We have in every game the mindset that we have to win,” he said.

Ronaldo’s comments came after United’s humiliating 3-0 home defeat to Liverpool. However, Ten Hag dismissed the impact of the interview on his team. “It doesn’t impact me,” he said. “I know in the process where we are, what we have to do, where we are going.”

United will face Southampton on Saturday, looking to bounce back from their recent setbacks. Luke Shaw and Rasmus Hojlund remain sidelined, but new signing Manuel Ugarte could make his debut.

Kent Draw with Hampshire in Thrilling County Championship Clash

Kent Draw with Hampshire in Thrilling County Championship Clash

Hampshire and Kent played out a thrilling draw on the final day of their Vitality County Championship Division One clash at Canterbury, with the hosts securing a crucial point to boost their survival hopes.

Kent resumed their second innings on 70 without loss, trailing by 126 runs. However, they lost Tawanda Muyeye early on, edging Kyle Abbott to Toby Albert at second slip for 46. Abbott then removed Ben Compton for 25, again caught by Albert.

Mohammad Abbas struck twice in quick succession, trapping Daniel Bell-Drummond lbw for 23 and bowling Joe Denly for five. Abbott returned to dismiss Joey Evison for 11, leaving Kent on 145 for five at lunch.

Jack Leaning and Harry Finch batted resolutely throughout the afternoon session, frustrating Hampshire’s bowlers. Leaning reached his half-century with a drive off James Fuller, while Finch provided solid support.

Hampshire’s hopes of forcing a result rested on the new ball, but Leaning brought up his century with a single off Abbott. However, he was dismissed lbw to Abbas in the next over, ending a record sixth-wicket partnership for Kent against Hampshire.

Charlie Stobo and Matt Parkinson fell cheaply, but Finch and Gurinder Singh combined for a crucial last-wicket stand that consumed 11 overs. Finch was eventually caught at first slip by James Vince for 79, leaving Kent all out for 338.

Hampshire faced a daunting target of 143 from nine overs, but bad light halted play after just 2.4 overs, with the visitors on 24 for one.

The draw leaves Kent with a slim chance of avoiding relegation. They face a crucial home game against Nottinghamshire next week, while Hampshire’s season at The Spitfire Ground ends with a hard-fought draw.

Neeraj Chopra, Avinash Sable Make History for India at Diamond League Final

Neeraj Chopra, Avinash Sable Make History for India at Diamond League Final

Indian athletics is set to witness a historic moment as javelin ace Neeraj Chopra and steeplechaser Avinash Sable become the first two Indians to qualify for the prestigious Diamond League Final, scheduled to commence in Brussels on Friday.

Chopra, the reigning Olympic silver medalist, will face a formidable field that includes Paris bronze medalist Anderson Peters of Grenada and Germany’s Julian Weber. The 26-year-old Indian will aim to end the season with his second Diamond League Finals trophy, having secured a season’s best of 89.49m at the Lausanne Diamond League last month.

Meanwhile, Sable will compete alongside world No. 5 Mohamed Amin Jhinaoui of Tunisia and Paris bronze medalist Abraham Kibiwot of Kenya. The 29-year-old Indian, who became the first Indian to reach the final of his event at the Olympics, will look to cap an underwhelming season on a high.

Despite limited competition this season, Sable managed to rewrite his own national record at the Paris Diamond League in July, clocking a time of 8:09.91m. However, his subsequent performance at the Silesia Diamond League in Poland was below par, resulting in a 14th-place finish.

Among the seven javelin throwers competing in Brussels, only Peters boasts a better personal best and season’s best than Chopra. Peters also emerged victorious at the Zurich Diamond League earlier this month, making him the only thrower in the fray to have surpassed the 90m mark this year.

Chopra’s participation in the Diamond League Final has been overshadowed by a persistent groin strain that has hampered his performance. He is expected to consult a doctor after the Brussels meet to address the niggle that has troubled him for nearly two years.

The Diamond League Final will be a two-day event, featuring 32 disciplines and a host of international stars. Pole vault world record holder Armand DuPlantis, American sprint queen Sha’Carri Richardson, and superstar hurdler Sydney McLaughlin-Levrone are among the athletes expected to draw significant attention.

9-Year-Old Chess Prodigy Defies Racist Abuse to Make History

9-Year-Old Chess Prodigy Defies Racist Abuse to Make History

Bodhana Sivanandan, a nine-year-old chess prodigy from Harrow, England, has become the youngest-ever player to represent her country at a major international sporting event. Her selection for the England women’s team at the Chess Olympiad in Budapest has sparked both admiration and a torrent of racist abuse on social media.

Despite the vile comments, Bodhana’s family remains unfazed. “We realize there’s no pleasing everyone,” said her father, Sivanandan. “There will always be people who feel she should play for India or those who believe she shouldn’t play for England.”

Bodhana’s journey to chess stardom began during the pandemic when she discovered a chess set among her father’s belongings. She quickly became hooked and began making rapid strides in the game. At the age of eight, she became the Under-8 world champion.

Her talent has drawn attention from chess legend Judit Polgar, who recently spent time with Bodhana in Budapest. “I want to become a world champion and one of the greatest players in the world,” Bodhana told Polgar.

Despite her success, Bodhana remains grounded. “She doesn’t really take her wins too seriously nor do losses break her,” said her father. “She pretty much has a neutral reaction to both.”

Bodhana’s family is determined to support her chess aspirations while ensuring she has a well-rounded education. “You go to school only once in life,” said Sivanandan. “What you learn in school, whether it’s social skills or just having friends with whom you can talk to about things other than chess, is hard to replicate at home.”

Bodhana’s story is an inspiration to young chess players everywhere. It shows that with hard work and determination, anything is possible, regardless of age or background.

Ireland Drops Balbirnie from T20I Squad, Explores New Dynamic

Ireland Drops Balbirnie from T20I Squad, Explores New Dynamic

Ireland’s cricket team is undergoing a strategic shift in its T20I squad, with the selectors opting to drop Test captain Andy Balbirnie in favor of a “new dynamic” at the top of the order. Balbirnie, Ireland’s second-highest T20I run-scorer, has struggled for form this year, averaging a modest 24.83 and striking at a rate of only 113.74.

National selector Andrew White explained the decision, stating that the team is exploring new options in the T20I format. Lorcan Tucker, who opened the batting in Balbirnie’s absence in Leinster Lightning’s recent T20 match, is a potential candidate to replace him as Paul Stirling’s opening partner.

While Balbirnie will sit out the T20Is, he remains a key figure in the ODI squad and will continue to open the batting alongside Stirling in that format. Josh Little, who is currently playing in the Caribbean Premier League, is not included in either squad.

The upcoming series against South Africa marks the start of a new cycle for Ireland’s white-ball teams, with the 2026 and 2027 T20 and 50-over World Cups on the horizon. The selectors are looking to deepen the pool of international cricketers and provide opportunities for players like Gavin Hoey, an uncapped legspinner, to gain experience.

Ireland will host South Africa’s tour in Abu Dhabi due to infrastructure constraints, but they hope to overcome these challenges with the development of a new national stadium. South Africa has already announced its squads for the series, with many of their first-choice players rested.

Piyush Chawla Lauds Rohit Sharma's Exceptional Leadership Skills

Piyush Chawla Lauds Rohit Sharma’s Exceptional Leadership Skills

Piyush Chawla, a seasoned Indian spinner, has heaped praise on Rohit Sharma’s exceptional leadership qualities and unwavering commitment to the Mumbai Indians franchise. Chawla, who played alongside Rohit in the 2023 IPL season, witnessed firsthand the impact of his captaincy on the team’s success.

Chawla highlighted Rohit’s unwavering loyalty and tireless efforts for the Mumbai Indians. He emphasized how Rohit’s leadership played a crucial role in guiding the team to numerous victories. In the 2023 IPL season, Chawla himself showcased his prowess on the field, securing 22 wickets across 16 matches, making him the fourth-highest wicket-taker in the tournament.

Chawla shared an anecdote from the season, revealing an instance when Rohit summoned him to his room at the unusual hour of 2:30 AM. “I’ve played so much cricket with him that we’ve reached a comfort level. We sit off-the-field as well. Once, at 2:30 in the night, he texted me and asked, ‘you up?’ He drew a field on paper and discussed with me about potentially dismissing Warner. Even at that time, he was thinking about how he could get the best out of me,” Chawla told Shubhankar Mishra on YouTube.

Chawla stressed that Rohit’s influence extends beyond his role as a captain, highlighting his leadership qualities. He referred to instances from the ODI World Cup held last year and the recent T20 World Cup to support his point. “There’s a captain, then there’s a leader. He isn’t a captain, he is a leader. Whether it was 2023 ODI WC, or the 2024 T20 WC, the way he batted, he sets the tone in such a way that he made it easy for next batters. He’s a true leader. He gives you a free hand,” said Chawla.

Rohit-led Indian team ended the decade-long ICC title drought after beating South Africa in the final of the T20 World Cup 2024 to lift their second title in the format. In 2023, the Men in Blue failed to win the World Test Championship and 2023 ODI World Cup under Rohit’s leadership after losing to Australia in the finals.

Tennis Titans Clash at Madison Square Garden for The Garden Cup

Tennis Titans Clash at Madison Square Garden for The Garden Cup

The Garden Cup: A Star-Studded Tennis Extravaganza at Madison Square Garden

New York City is set to witness a thrilling tennis spectacle on December 4th at the iconic Madison Square Garden. The Garden Cup, the first tennis event at MSG since 2018, will feature an electrifying lineup of top-ranked players.

Headlining the event is Jessica Pegula, the American who recently reached her first Grand Slam final at the US Open. Pegula, currently ranked No. 3 in the WTA rankings, will face off against fellow American Emma Navarro, who made a remarkable run to the semifinals at Flushing Meadows. Navarro, ranked No. 8, upset defending champion Coco Gauff in the fourth round.

The men’s side of the draw boasts the presence of Carlos Alcaraz, the reigning French Open and Wimbledon champion. Alcaraz, who won the US Open in 2022, will take on Ben Shelton, the American who reached the semifinals at the US Open last year.

The Garden Cup promises to be a showcase of exceptional tennis talent. Pegula and Navarro, both in the Top 10 of the WTA rankings, will bring their aggressive baseline play and impressive court coverage. Alcaraz, known for his dynamic style and powerful groundstrokes, will face a stern test in Shelton, who has proven to be a rising star in American tennis.

The event will not only feature world-class tennis but also provide a unique experience for fans. Madison Square Garden, renowned for its historic atmosphere and passionate crowds, will create an unforgettable setting for this tennis extravaganza.

Sinner Stuns Alcaraz, Djokovic at US Open, Claims Maiden Grand Slam

Sinner Stuns Alcaraz, Djokovic at US Open, Claims Maiden Grand Slam

The 2024 US Open witnessed a stunning upset as Carlos Alcaraz and Novak Djokovic, the tournament’s top seeds, suffered early exits. Jannik Sinner emerged as the unlikely champion, capturing his maiden Grand Slam title with a dominant victory over Taylor Fritz in the final.

Alcaraz and Djokovic, both returning from the grueling Paris Olympics, appeared fatigued and vulnerable. Alcaraz, who had faced Djokovic in the Olympic final, was particularly affected by the demanding schedule.

Sinner’s rise to prominence has sent shockwaves through the tennis world. His exceptional speed, precision, and mental fortitude have made him a formidable opponent. Rafael Nadal’s uncle, Toni, has even warned Alcaraz about the threat posed by Sinner.

“Sinner has become practically unstoppable for most of his opponents,” Toni said. “He can hit every shot with great pace and makes very few unforced errors. Beating him from the baseline is almost impossible.”

Toni predicts a fierce rivalry between Sinner and Alcaraz, despite his preference for Alcaraz’s style of play. “Sinner’s mental improvement will make things very difficult for Alcaraz,” he added.

Sinner’s triumph at the US Open also marked a historic moment for Italian tennis. He became the first Italian man to win the tournament. However, his victory was overshadowed by a doping controversy that emerged during the tournament.

Sinner tested positive for an anabolic agent in March but avoided a ban after an independent tribunal accepted his defense that the test results were due to unintentional contamination.

Despite the controversy, Sinner’s performance at the US Open has cemented his status as a rising star in the tennis world. His victory serves as a reminder that even the most established players can be challenged by the next generation of talent.

Leander Paes Meets Sports Minister to Discuss India's Sports Future

Leander Paes Meets Sports Minister to Discuss India’s Sports Future

Multiple Grand Slam champion Leander Paes recently met with Union Sports Minister, Dr. Mansukh Mandaviya, to share his insights on fostering a stronger sports foundation in India. Paes emphasized the importance of identifying and nurturing talent at the grassroots level.

The seven-time Olympian discussed the need for a comprehensive approach to sports development, encompassing infrastructure, coaching, and competition. He highlighted the significance of creating a conducive environment for aspiring athletes, providing them with access to world-class facilities and support.

Dr. Mandaviya expressed the government’s commitment to enhancing the country’s performance in major sporting events such as the Olympics and Paralympics. He acknowledged the need for strategic planning and collaboration among stakeholders to achieve these goals.

Paes’s meeting with the Sports Minister underscores the growing recognition of the importance of sports in India. The government’s focus on building a robust sports ecosystem is expected to create opportunities for young athletes to excel and represent the country on the global stage.

Paes, who recently became the latest inductee into the Tennis Hall of Fame, shared his experiences and insights on what it takes to succeed at the highest level. He emphasized the importance of hard work, dedication, and a relentless pursuit of excellence.

The meeting between Paes and Dr. Mandaviya is a positive step towards strengthening India’s sports infrastructure and fostering a culture of athleticism. It is hoped that the government’s initiatives, coupled with the expertise of experienced athletes like Paes, will lead to a brighter future for Indian sports.

Sachin Tendulkar’s “Desert Storm”: A Masterclass in Batting Excellence

In the scorching heat of April 1998, the Sharjah Cricket Stadium in the United Arab Emirates witnessed a cricketing spectacle that would forever be etched in the annals of the sport. The Coca-Cola Cup, a triangular series involving India, Australia, and New Zealand, brought together some of the era’s finest cricketing talents. Amidst the grueling desert heat, with temperatures soaring above 40°C (104°F), Sachin Tendulkar delivered a performance that would cement his status as a cricketing legend.

On April 22, 1998, in the first of two crucial matches against Australia, Tendulkar emerged as India’s beacon of hope. Chasing a formidable target of 285 runs, he unleashed a batting masterclass. His innings of 143 not out off 131 balls was a symphony of elegance and aggression.

Tendulkar’s innings was not merely a display of technical brilliance but also a testament to his mental fortitude. Despite being relentlessly challenged by the Australian bowlers, he exhibited remarkable resilience. His shots were a mesmerizing blend of crisp drives, delicate glides, and powerful pulls, leaving spectators and opponents alike in awe.

As Tendulkar’s innings progressed, a dust storm, which would later become part of cricketing folklore, disrupted India’s efforts for around 25 minutes. The target was revised to 276 in 46 overs. Undeterred, Tendulkar continued his onslaught, guiding India to the brink of victory.

However, a cruel twist of fate struck in the final over. With India needing just 34 runs in 19 deliveries, pacer Damien Fleming dismissed Tendulkar for 143, leaving India with a daunting task. Despite the setback, Tendulkar’s innings had given India a fighting chance.

Just two days later, on April 24, 1998, in the tournament final, India faced Australia once again. Chasing a target of 245, Tendulkar once more played a breathtaking innings on his birthday. This time, he scored 134 runs off 131 balls, his knock characterized by the same combination of power and precision that had defined his previous innings.

Tendulkar’s performances during the Sharjah series are widely regarded as some of the finest in the history of one-day cricket. His innings were not only a testament to his exceptional skill but also his ability to deliver under immense pressure. The “Desert Storm” remains a symbol of Tendulkar’s greatness and a reminder of why he is revered as one of the greatest cricketers of all time.

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