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India Eyes First Chess Olympiad Gold in Budapest

India Eyes First Chess Olympiad Gold in Budapest

By September 11, 2024 0

India, the bronze medalist in the previous edition, is poised to make history at the 45th Chess Olympiad in Budapest, Hungary. The Indian team, seeded second, is determined to secure its first standalone gold medal in the prestigious tournament.

Led by Vidit Gujrathi, R Praggnanandhaa, D Gukesh, Arjun Erigaise, and P Harikrishna, the Indian team boasts a formidable lineup. Despite the absence of legendary Viswanathan Anand, the team is confident in its ability to surpass its previous bronze medal performance.

The Chinese team, featuring reigning World Champion Ding Liren, is the third seed and a strong contender for the title. The tournament format consists of 11 rounds in both the open and women’s sections, with two match points awarded for each victory.

The Indian women’s team, seeded first, is also a strong contender for the podium. Led by D Harika and R Vaishali, the team has a mix of youth and experience. The absence of top Chinese players and the suspension of Russia and Ukraine has cleared the path for India’s women’s team.

The US team, led by Fabiano Caruana, is the top favorite in the open section. Despite missing Hikaru Nakamura, the US team remains a formidable opponent. The Indian men’s team, led by D Gukesh, also has a good chance of performing well.

With a strong team and a clear path to victory, India is poised to make history at the 45th Chess Olympiad. The tournament promises to be an exciting and competitive event, with India aiming to secure its first standalone gold medal.

Categories: Others
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Greater Noida Test Venue Under Fire for Lack of Preparedness

Greater Noida Test Venue Under Fire for Lack of Preparedness

By September 11, 2024 0

Greater Noida’s Shaheed Vijay Singh Pathik Sports Complex, despite its lack of prominence in the domestic cricket circuit, has found itself in the national spotlight as the host of a one-off Test match between Afghanistan and New Zealand. However, the stadium’s unsuitability for hosting such a high-profile event has raised questions about its preparedness.

The stadium, maintained by the Greater Noida Industrial Development Authority (GNIDA), lacks the infrastructure and trained personnel necessary for handling wet outfield conditions. The absence of adequate covers and equipment for quick drying has resulted in the cancellation of play on the first two days of the Test match.

The stadium’s history of hosting cricket matches is limited, with its last BCCI-sanctioned match being an U-19 Cooch Behar Trophy contest in 2019. Despite being the ‘home’ ground of the Afghan cricket team, it has only hosted three T20 matches between Afghanistan and Ireland in 2020.

The stadium’s lack of maintenance has also been a concern, with sources indicating that it has not been properly cared for in recent years. This has contributed to its unsuitability for hosting serious cricket matches.

The match referee’s report on the stadium’s preparedness is eagerly awaited, as it will shed light on the reasons behind the venue’s selection for the Test match. The incident has raised questions about the BCCI’s decision-making process and the need for stricter criteria for selecting venues for international cricket matches.

Categories: Cricket
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Vaughan Slams England for 'Disrespectful' Performance in Sri Lanka Loss

Vaughan Slams England for ‘Disrespectful’ Performance in Sri Lanka Loss

By September 11, 2024 0

Former England captain Michael Vaughan has launched a scathing attack on the team’s performance in the third Test against Sri Lanka, accusing them of disrespecting the game and their opponents.

England suffered a stunning eight-wicket defeat at The Oval on Monday, handing Sri Lanka their first Test victory on English soil in over a decade. Vaughan believes the team’s over-aggressive approach was a major factor in their downfall.

“I felt that they disrespected Test cricket and disrespected Sri Lanka in the third Test by being over-aggressive with both bat and in their field placings,” Vaughan wrote in his column for The Telegraph.

“England have made a bit of a habit of becoming a bit complacent after a good period, I think of the start of the Ashes, or earlier this year in Rajkot and I hope it serves as a wake-up call for the tougher Tests that lie in wait in 2025.”

Vaughan also criticized England’s decision to abandon their usual “Bazball” style of play, which had brought them success in the first two Tests of the series.

“There is no way they will get away with playing like this against India or Australia,” Vaughan said.

Sri Lanka’s victory was inspired by a superb unbeaten century from Pathum Nissanka, who guided his team to their target of 219 with ease. Angelo Mathews also played a key role, contributing an unbeaten 32 in an unbroken stand of 111 with Nissanka.

The win gave Sri Lanka just their fourth Test victory in England and first since 2014. England, however, still managed to win the series 2-1 after victories at Old Trafford and Lord’s.

Despite the series win, Vaughan believes England’s performance in the third Test is a cause for concern.

“This is not the kind of cricket that will help England win matches against tough oppositions like Australia and India,” he said.

Categories: Cricket
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Rare Wicket-Keeper No-Ball Costs Northamptonshire in T20 Blast

Rare Wicket-Keeper No-Ball Costs Northamptonshire in T20 Blast

By September 11, 2024 0

Wicket-Keeper No-Ball: A Rare Occurrence in Cricket

In a rare turn of events, Northamptonshire wicket-keeper Lewis McManus committed a no-ball in a Vitality T20 Blast match against Somerset. The incident occurred when Somerset’s Tom Kohler-Cadmore was on strike and McManus appealed for a stumping. However, replays revealed that McManus’ gloves had crossed the line of the stumps before he collected the ball, prompting the third umpire to call a no-ball.

According to Law 27.3.1 and 27.3.2 set by the Marylebone Cricket Club (MCC), the wicket-keeper must remain wholly behind the wicket at the striker’s end until the ball comes into play or until the striker attempts a run. In this case, McManus’ gloves were ahead of the stumps before any of these conditions were met, resulting in the no-ball call.

The no-ball proved costly for Northamptonshire, as Kohler-Cadmore slammed the free-hit into the stands for six. He went on to score 63 runs, helping Somerset post a total of 215 in 20 overs. Northamptonshire fell 17 runs short in their chase.

This type of no-ball is uncommon in cricket, as wicket-keepers are typically careful to avoid crossing the line of the stumps. However, it serves as a reminder of the importance of adhering to the laws of the game.

Categories: Cricket
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Rishabh Pant Set for Test Comeback, Earns Praise from WWE Legend

Rishabh Pant Set for Test Comeback, Earns Praise from WWE Legend

By September 11, 2024 0

Rishabh Pant, the dynamic wicket-keeper batter, is poised to make a triumphant return to international red-ball cricket after being named in the Indian squad for the first Test against Bangladesh, commencing on September 19. This marks Pant’s comeback after an extended absence of approximately 20 months, following severe injuries sustained in a car accident in 2022.

Pant’s return has been met with widespread anticipation, as he is widely regarded as a key member of the Indian cricket team. He played a pivotal role in India’s T20 World Cup 2024 campaign and recently made his ODI comeback against Sri Lanka.

WWE Hall of Famer Eric Bischoff has expressed his admiration for Pant’s resilience and dedication, commenting on his comeback with the words, “Discipline and commitment. Deadly combination.”

Former India captain Sourav Ganguly has also hailed Pant’s potential, stating that he is on track to become an all-time great in Test cricket. However, Ganguly emphasized the need for Pant to improve his performance in shorter formats.

The Indian selectors have opted to give Mohammed Shami additional time to recover from ankle surgery, while including uncapped left-arm pacers Yash Dayal and Akash Deep in the squad. Jasprit Bumrah and Mohammed Siraj will serve as the frontline pacers.

Ganguly expressed confidence in the Indian bowling attack, despite Shami’s absence, stating that it remains a formidable unit. He also highlighted the importance of spin in Indian conditions, with Ravichandran Ashwin, Ravindra Jadeja, Axar Patel, and Kuldeep Yadav forming a formidable quartet.

Pant’s return to the Indian Test team is a testament to his unwavering determination and the high regard in which he is held by the cricketing fraternity. As he embarks on this new chapter, he will be eager to prove his worth and contribute to India’s success on the international stage.

Categories: Cricket
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Dave Bautista Sheds 80 Pounds, Embraces Healthier Lifestyle

Dave Bautista Sheds 80 Pounds, Embraces Healthier Lifestyle

By September 11, 2024 0

Dave Bautista, the former WWE champion known as “Batista,” has undergone a significant weight loss journey, shedding an impressive 80 pounds. The 55-year-old wrestler-turned-actor has dropped from 320 pounds to 240, leaving behind his once-massive physique.

Bautista’s weight loss was motivated by a desire to improve his health and acting career. He realized that his excessive weight was hindering his ability to secure roles. “I got fat. I got really big for a role, rather uncomfortably big,” he said. “I was around 315 pounds and put on weight really fast.”

The weight gain had taken a toll on Bautista’s body, making him feel sluggish and uncomfortable. He began to trim down, noticing a positive impact on his appearance and well-being. “The more I trimmed down, the better I look on camera, next to other actors,” he said. “The more I trimmed down, the better I feel.”

Despite concerns from fans about his health, Bautista insists that he is in good shape. “I am 6’4 and 240 pounds,” he said. “But to me, because people have seen me so much over the years, I am still a big human being.”

Bautista’s weight loss journey has been a gradual process, involving a combination of diet and exercise. He has restricted his calorie intake to around 2500 per day and engages in rigorous training.

Reflecting on his in-ring career, Bautista acknowledged that he was a “huge dude” during his time in the WWE. As a four-time World Heavyweight Champion and a two-time WWE Champion, he feuded with some of the biggest names in the industry. However, his full-time in-ring career ended in 2009 when he pursued acting.

Bautista returned to the WWE in 2014, winning the Royal Rumble and earning a spot in the main event at WrestleMania 30. He departed again in 2019, facing Triple H in his final match.

Categories: Others
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KL Rahul Favored Over Sarfaraz Khan for India's No. 5 Spot

KL Rahul Favored Over Sarfaraz Khan for India’s No. 5 Spot

By September 11, 2024 0

KL Rahul’s Experience Trumps Sarfaraz Khan’s Form for India’s No. 5 Spot

Former Indian cricketer Kris Srikkanth has advocated for KL Rahul to retain his position as India’s No. 5 batsman in the upcoming Test series against Bangladesh, despite Sarfaraz Khan’s impressive performances earlier this year.

Rahul missed the majority of the England Test series due to injury, allowing Sarfaraz to step in and score 200 runs at an average of 50. However, Srikkanth believes Rahul’s experience and overseas success make him the better choice for the No. 5 spot.

“Honestly, I feel bad for Sarfaraz Khan,” Srikkanth said on his YouTube channel. “But this happens, at times, in Test cricket. You would have been playing well, but when a big player returns, you will have to lose your place.”

Srikkanth also highlighted the upcoming Australia series, where Rahul’s experience in overseas conditions will be crucial. “At the back of the mind, they are also keeping the Australia series. New Zealand are also coming. KL Rahul has performed well overseas, in Australia he has done well,” he added.

Rahul’s recent scores of 37 and 57 in the Duleep Trophy further strengthen his case for selection. Meanwhile, India’s top four are set with Rohit Sharma, Yashasvi Jaiswal, Shubman Gill, and Virat Kohli, while Rishabh Pant is expected to bat at No. 6 as the wicketkeeper.

Sarfaraz’s recent Duleep Trophy performance, where he scored 9 and 46, poses a tough decision for the selectors ahead of the Bangladesh series. However, Srikkanth’s comments suggest that Rahul is the frontrunner for the No. 5 spot.

The Indian team aims to present their strongest team in this series and future tours against New Zealand and Australia. Rahul’s experience and overseas success make him a valuable asset to the team, and he is likely to retain his place in the batting order for the first Test against Bangladesh.

Categories: Cricket
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ICC Considers Two-Tier System for Test Cricket to Enhance Competition and Development

ICC Considers Two-Tier System for Test Cricket to Enhance Competition and Development

By September 11, 2024 0

The International Cricket Council (ICC) has been contemplating a two-tier system for Test cricket for over a decade. In 2004, then General Manager David Richardson hoped to implement it by 2019, but objections from India and other countries who feared relegation delayed its implementation.

The Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI) opposed the plan, arguing that it would diminish the popularity and development of the game. Instead, the World Test Championship was introduced in 2014, but it was criticized for its lack of context.

Former England captain Michael Vaughan recently reignited the two-tier plan, suggesting that it would reduce mismatched games between teams with vastly different resources. He proposed dividing the six top-ranked teams into one group and the remaining six into another, with the teams shuffled after two years.

This pragmatic plan would achieve several benefits:

* More tours among non-elite teams: It would encourage tours between countries beyond the top six, fostering the development of the game globally.
* Rationalized calendar: It would allow for more flexibility in scheduling Test series outside the World Test Championship cycle, such as the Ashes or India-Pakistan series.
* Financial support for struggling teams: The ICC has established a special fund of $10 million to assist financially strapped countries, ensuring that they can continue to participate in Test cricket.

The two-tier system would address the concerns raised by India and other countries. By dividing the teams into two groups, it would eliminate the risk of relegation for the top teams. Additionally, the special fund would provide financial support to ensure that all Test-playing nations have the resources to compete.

The time has come for Test cricket to embrace a two-tier system. It would promote competition, foster the development of the game, and ensure the financial viability of Test cricket for all nations.

Categories: Cricket
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AIFF Launches Inquiry into Stimac Contract Renewal, Settles Compensation

AIFF Launches Inquiry into Stimac Contract Renewal, Settles Compensation

By September 11, 2024 0

The All India Football Federation (AIFF) has initiated an independent inquiry into the contract renewal procedures of former head coach Igor Stimac. The decision came after the AIFF and Stimac reached a USD 400,000 compensation settlement for terminating his contract.

During the AIFF’s Annual General Body meeting, members expressed concerns about the renewal, termination, and settlement of Stimac’s contract. They called for an investigation into the internal procedures and personnel involved in the 2023 contract renewal, which was allegedly done on “unapproved and unfavorable terms.”

Stimac had initially filed a claim of USD 920,000 before the FIFA Football Tribunal. However, he eventually reached a full and final settlement with the AIFF. The AIFF noted that the 2023 contract renewal left the federation in a “compromised negotiating position,” leading to significant financial detriment.

Stimac was sacked in June 2023, a year before his contract was set to expire. The decision followed India’s elimination from the second round of FIFA World Cup Qualifiers. The sacking sparked a public dispute between Stimac and the AIFF, with the Croatian threatening legal action.

Sources within the AIFF have revealed that the initial contract with Stimac included a severance clause providing for a three-month notice period. However, the later contract (signed in October 2023) did not have this clause, creating complications for the AIFF in terminating Stimac’s contract.

Former AIFF Secretary General Shaji Prabhakaran claimed that the contract extension without a severance clause was “approved” by president Kalyan Chaubey. However, Chaubey denied this assertion, stating that he was not informed about the contract signing.

The AIFF also expressed concerns about a former employee, who no longer holds any positions in Indian football, continuing to represent the federation in various committees of the South Asian Football Federation and Asian Football Confederation. The members requested the AIFF Executive Committee to take action to curtail such practices.

Meanwhile, the Indian national team is set to establish a permanent address for high-altitude training camps at the newly launched stadium in Tawang, Arunachal Pradesh. The location, situated at 10,000 feet above sea level, is considered ideal for acclimatizing the squad for international competitions.

Additionally, the AIFF Executive Committee proposed to include the India U-20 men’s national team in the I-League competition. The move aims to provide the team with competitive game time and maintain match fitness throughout the year. The India U20 team will be exempt from promotion-relegation.

Categories: Football
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WADA Considers Appeal in Jannik Sinner Doping Case

WADA Considers Appeal in Jannik Sinner Doping Case

By September 10, 2024 0

The World Anti-Doping Agency (WADA) has yet to decide whether to appeal the decision to exonerate US Open champion Jannik Sinner of blame for his positive steroid tests. The agency has until the end of September to file an appeal.

Sinner tested positive twice for an anabolic steroid in March but was not banned because the International Tennis Integrity Agency (ITIA) determined he was not to blame. Sinner’s accepted explanation was that the banned performance-enhancer entered his system unintentionally through a massage from his physiotherapist, who used a spray containing the steroid to treat their own cut finger.

The doping case was kept secret until last month’s announcement, and the top-ranked Sinner went on to beat Taylor Fritz in the US Open final on Sunday.

An appeal could jeopardize Sinner’s US Open title, but Sinner and his legal team have provided detailed evidence that persuaded the ITIA and the tribunal judges that his explanation was credible.

WADA and Nado Italia, Italy’s anti-doping agency, are the only two agencies that could challenge the decision by an independent tribunal announced by the ITIA on Aug. 20. While the doping rules state that any other party with a right to appeal—such as Nado Italia—has 21 days to do so, WADA then gets another 21 days on top of that before its own window closes.

Nado Italia has yet to file an appeal, and it is unclear whether the initial 21-day deadline expired Tuesday. The tennis integrity agency rulebook states that the deadline for filing an appeal to the Court of Arbitration for Sport (CAS) will be 21 days from the date of receipt of the reasoned decision in question by the appealing party.

WADA then has another 21 days to file an appeal to the CAS in Lausanne, Switzerland.

Categories: Tennis
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