Rahul Dravid Reflects on Coaching Career, Shares Career Advice

Rahul Dravid Reflects on Coaching Career, Shares Career Advice

Rahul Dravid, the former India coach and captain, recently shared his thoughts on his coaching career and the challenges of the game at the CEAT awards. Dravid, who guided India to victory in the T20 World Cup earlier this year, reflected on the highs and lows of his tenure.

“The beauty of this game is that you are failing a lot more than you are succeeding,” Dravid said. “But that’s what makes it so much more fun, so much more enjoyable.”

Dravid’s tenure as coach was marked by both success and disappointment. India reached the final of the World Test Championship and the ODI World Cup but lost both to Australia. However, they managed to bring home the T20 World Cup, defeating South Africa in a thrilling final.

“When you have moments like that, I try and avoid showing that to my children, thinking I’ve gone mad or something,” Dravid said of his emotions after winning the T20 World Cup. “But I have been always telling the boys that we have got to maintain our balance, we’ve got to remain cool and not go up and down with the results.”

Dravid also spoke about the challenges of coaching a team at the highest level. “You are constantly under scrutiny,” he said. “You are constantly being judged. But that’s part of the job. You have to be able to handle that pressure.”

Despite the challenges, Dravid said he enjoyed his time as coach. “It was a great experience,” he said. “I learned a lot. I grew a lot. And I made some lifelong friends.”

Dravid is now looking forward to the next chapter in his career. He has not yet announced his plans, but he said he is open to new opportunities. “I’m not sure what the future holds,” he said. “But I’m excited to find out.”

Pakistan Coach Backs Masood Despite Test Series Loss to Bangladesh

Pakistan Coach Backs Masood Despite Test Series Loss to Bangladesh

Pakistan’s recent Test series loss to Bangladesh has sparked criticism of captain Shan Masood’s leadership. However, head coach Jason Gillespie has expressed support for Masood, attributing the team’s performance to broader issues rather than individual leadership.

Gillespie emphasized that the team’s performance, not Masood’s leadership, was the primary concern. He stated, “We just haven’t played well as a team and that’s the reality. We need to sharpen up on certain areas and we will sharpen up.”

Masood himself acknowledged the criticism but remained committed to long-term improvement. He said, “I am not worried for my job security. I took this job to make the changes we believe will help this team.”

Masood highlighted the need for more experience and exposure in red-ball cricket for his team. He pointed to Bangladesh’s seasoned players as an example, stating, “We need the same level of red-ball exposure. Test cricket is the ultimate format of the game. You need experience.”

Gillespie echoed Masood’s sentiments, emphasizing the importance of gaining experience and refining skills. He said, “We need to back and believe in these players, they are good enough.”

Both players and management appear focused on addressing these issues to improve future performances. The emphasis seems to be on gaining experience and refining skills to better compete in the red-ball format.

India's Paralympic Stars Set for Action-Packed Day in Paris

India’s Paralympic Stars Set for Action-Packed Day in Paris

India’s Paralympic contingent is poised to make history at the 2024 Paralympics in Paris, with a packed schedule of events on September 4th. The day promises to be filled with thrilling competitions and medal-winning opportunities for the Indian athletes.

In table tennis, Tokyo Paralympics silver medalist Bhavina Patel will take center stage in the women’s singles class 4 quarter-finals. She will face a formidable opponent in Zhou Ying of China, but Patel’s determination and skill make her a strong contender for a podium finish.

The men’s shot put F46 event will witness a trio of Indian athletes vying for glory. Mohd Yasser, Rohit Kumar, and Sachin Sarjerao Khilari will all be in action, aiming to secure a place on the medal stand. In the women’s shot put F46, Amisha Rawat will represent India and strive to add to the country’s medal tally.

Powerlifting will also be a key focus for India, with Parmjeet Kumar competing in the men’s 49kg category and Sakina Khatun in the women’s 45kg category. Both athletes have proven their mettle in previous competitions and will be looking to make their mark in Paris.

Archery will see Harvinder Singh take on Tseng Lung-hui of Taiwan in the men’s recurve pre-quarterfinal. Singh’s precision and focus will be crucial as he aims to advance to the next round.

Cycling will also feature Indian representation, with Arshad Shaik competing in the men’s C2 Individual Road Time Trial and Jyoti Gaderiya in the women’s C1-3 Individual Road Time Trial. Both athletes will be determined to showcase their endurance and speed on the cycling track.

In shooting, Nihal Singh and Rudransh Khandelwal will participate in the mixed 50m pistol SH1 qualification and final, aiming to secure a spot on the podium.

The day’s schedule also includes the men’s club throw F51, where Dharambir, Pranav Soorma, and Amit Kumar Saroha will represent India. In the women’s 100m T12 heat, Simran will be looking to qualify for the next round.

With such a diverse and talented contingent, India has a strong chance of achieving its best-ever medal tally at the Paralympics. The athletes’ dedication, determination, and unwavering spirit will undoubtedly inspire the nation and bring glory to the country.

Pakistan Drops Shaheen Afridi, Naseem Shah for Second Test

Pakistan Drops Shaheen Afridi, Naseem Shah for Second Test

Pakistan’s Test captain, Shan Masood, has defended the decision to bench star pacers Shaheen Afridi and Naseem Shah for the second Test against Bangladesh. The move came after Pakistan suffered a series whitewash in Rawalpindi.

Masood acknowledged the need to explore other options and nurture young talent. “We’re trying to keep consistency with red-ball performances as well,” he said. “We can’t be harsh on [Shaheen and Naseem] because they’re playing all three formats.”

Head coach Jason Gillespie echoed Masood’s sentiments, emphasizing the importance of developing a balanced team. “We want Shaheen Afridi to be at his very best for as much cricket as possible,” he said. “He’s an all-format player, and we have a pretty heavy schedule.”

Gillespie also highlighted Shaheen’s personal challenges, which may have affected his performance. “He had a pretty eventful time in his personal life as well,” he said.

Despite their disappointing T20 World Cup performances, Shaheen and Naseem have shown flashes of brilliance. However, their recent form has raised concerns. In the first Test against Bangladesh, they failed to make a significant impact.

Pakistan’s decision to drop the duo is a bold one, but it reflects the team’s commitment to building a sustainable future. By giving opportunities to younger players, Pakistan hopes to create a more well-rounded and resilient squad.

Deepthi Jeevanji: From Taunts to Triumph at Paris Paralympics

Deepthi Jeevanji: From Taunts to Triumph at Paris Paralympics

The Paris Paralympics 2024 has showcased the indomitable spirit of athletes who have overcome adversity to achieve greatness. Among them is Deepthi Jeevanji, an Indian para-athlete who has defied challenges to become a beacon of inspiration.

Born with intellectual disability, Deepthi faced taunts and discrimination from her community. However, her unwavering determination and the unwavering support of her family propelled her to pursue her passion for athletics.

In 2023, Deepthi made history by winning India’s first gold medal at the World Athletics Para Championship in Kobe, Japan. Her triumph was a testament to her resilience and the power of belief.

At the ongoing Paris Paralympics 2024, Deepthi continued her remarkable journey by securing a bronze medal in the women’s 400m T20 final. She crossed the finish line in 55.82 seconds, adding another chapter to her inspiring story.

Deepthi’s success is not only a personal achievement but also a symbol of hope for countless individuals with disabilities. Her journey demonstrates that with determination and support, anything is possible.

Her parents, Jeevanji Yadhagiri and Jeevanji Dhanalaxmi, have been instrumental in Deepthi’s success. Despite facing financial challenges, they have always encouraged their daughter to pursue her dreams.

“Seeing her become the world champion in a far-off country proves that she is indeed a special girl,” said Jeevanji Dhanalaxmi. “She has always given us joy, and this medal will also mean a lot to us.”

Deepthi’s story is a reminder that disability does not define an individual’s potential. With the right support and opportunities, people with disabilities can achieve extraordinary things.

Sinner Controversy Casts Shadow on US Open, Federer Raises Concerns

Sinner Controversy Casts Shadow on US Open, Federer Raises Concerns

The ongoing US Open has been overshadowed by the controversy surrounding Italian world No. 1 Jannik Sinner’s positive tests for the banned substance clostebol. Despite undergoing a secret trial, Sinner has been allowed to compete, raising questions about the fairness of the process.

Tennis legend Roger Federer has expressed his concern over the negative impact such news has on the sport. “It’s not something we want to see in our sport, these types of news,” Federer said. “It’s just noise that we don’t want.”

Federer acknowledged the complexity of the situation, noting that athletes live with the constant fear of being tested. However, he emphasized the importance of consistency in the application of rules.

“I understand the frustration of, ‘Has he been treated the same as others?'” Federer said. “I think this is where it comes down to. I think we all trust pretty much that Jannik didn’t do anything, but the inconsistency potentially that he didn’t have to sit out while they weren’t 100 percent sure what was going on, I think that’s the question here that needs to be answered.”

Sinner’s coach, Darren Cahill, has highlighted the disparity in resources available to top-ranked players like Sinner compared to lower-ranked athletes. Sinner’s team was able to afford expert legal representation and scientific analysis to support his case.

Federer echoed these concerns, stating that “the inconsistency is the real issue.” He called for a fair and transparent process that ensures equal treatment for all athletes, regardless of their ranking or financial resources.

The Sinner case has raised important questions about the integrity of the sport and the fairness of the anti-doping system. Federer’s comments underscore the need for a consistent and transparent approach to ensure that the sport remains clean and fair for all.

Sabalenka Demolishes Zheng, Reaches Fourth US Open Semi-Final

Sabalenka Demolishes Zheng, Reaches Fourth US Open Semi-Final

World number two Aryna Sabalenka continued her impressive run at the US Open, reaching her fourth consecutive semi-final with a dominant 6-1, 6-2 victory over Olympic gold medalist Zheng Qinwen on Tuesday.

Sabalenka, the Australian Open champion and runner-up to Coco Gauff in New York last year, displayed her power and precision against the rising Chinese star. She broke Zheng’s serve early in both sets, setting the tone for a one-sided encounter.

Zheng, who had upset top seed Iga Swiatek in the fourth round, struggled to find her rhythm against Sabalenka’s relentless baseline play. The Belarusian hit 20 winners to Zheng’s nine, and converted five of her seven break point opportunities.

“It was important that I got the early break, that was an advantage because it’s tough to face her,” said Sabalenka after her 73-minute victory. “She’s a really good player, and we had two battles this season that were really close.”

Sabalenka will now face 13th-seeded Emma Navarro of the United States in the semi-finals. Navarro reached her maiden Slam semi-final earlier Tuesday with a straight-sets victory over Paula Badosa of Spain.

Sabalenka and Navarro are 1-1 in their head-to-head meetings, with both clashes coming this season. The American won at Indian Wells before Sabalenka came out on top at the French Open.

“The drinks are on me if you cheer for me,” Sabalenka told the Arthur Ashe Stadium crowd in an effort to drum up backing for the semi-final against the New York-born Navarro.

Sabalenka’s victory extends her impressive record at the US Open. She has now reached the semi-finals in four consecutive years, and is aiming to reach her first Grand Slam final since winning the Australian Open in January.

Scotland Aim for Historic ODI Series Win Over Australia

Scotland Aim for Historic ODI Series Win Over Australia

Scotland, buoyed by their impressive performance against Australia at the T20 World Cup, are determined to make history by securing their first-ever ODI series victory over the formidable Aussies.

In the T20 World Cup, Scotland pushed Australia to the brink, with a win potentially eliminating England from the tournament. Despite falling short, the Scots believe they have the potential to go even further in the upcoming three-match ODI series in Edinburgh.

Australia’s inexperienced squad, coupled with Scotland’s home advantage and three games in four days, presents a golden opportunity for the hosts. Left-arm spinner Mark Watt expressed their ambition to not only win a game but to claim the entire series.

“We’re after a little bit of blood this week,” Watt said. “We can take inspiration from the T20 World Cup, but we also have a point to prove. We believe we should have won that game and gone further. We got close, but we’re disappointed we didn’t win.”

Scotland’s squad remains unchanged from the T20 World Cup, with the addition of pace bowler Charlie Cassell, who made a sensational ODI debut with a seven-wicket haul against Oman.

“It’s a great opportunity for our players to share the field with world-class players,” said Scotland head coach Doug Watson. “We want to compete and push this Australia team. Our goal is to win this series.”

Scotland’s success in hosting Australia is a testament to their resilience, as Ireland was initially scheduled to host the series but faced financial constraints. The last time Australia played a bilateral match against Scotland was in 2013, where Aaron Finch and Shaun Marsh shared a record-breaking opening partnership.

Despite their impressive performances, Scotland remains frustrated by the limited opportunities they have to face top-tier nations outside of global events.

“It’s frustrating we don’t get the opportunities to play the big boys,” said Michael Leask. “We would take any opportunity, because the more high-quality cricket we get, the better we get.”

Scotland’s determination and home advantage make them a formidable opponent for Australia. The series promises to be a thrilling contest, with the Scots eager to prove their worth and secure a historic victory.

Virat Kohli's Nickname for Mohammed Shami: The Story Behind 'Lala'

Virat Kohli’s Nickname for Mohammed Shami: The Story Behind ‘Lala’

Virat Kohli, the former Indian cricket team captain, is renowned for his jovial nature and penchant for pranks. It was Kohli who bestowed the nickname “lala” upon fast bowler Mohammed Shami. Shami, who recently turned 34, is currently undergoing rehabilitation following ankle surgery and is nearing a return to international cricket.

On Shami’s birthday, Star Sports released a video clip featuring the Uttar Pradesh-born pacer answering questions in a rapid-fire round. When asked about the origin of his nickname, Shami revealed, “Virat started it because almost everybody in the team had a nickname, only I was left.”

Shami’s jersey number, 11, holds special significance for him. “There are a lot of things that when calculated are 11 in my life,” he explained.

Regarding his favorite fast bowlers, Shami named Waqar Younis and Dale Steyn. “There are a lot of them,” he said, “but if you are asking for names, then I like Waqar Younis and Dale Steyn more.”

When asked about batsmen he enjoys bowling to, Shami singled out Joe Root. “If you talk about now, then for me it is Joe Root because he plays all around the wicket,” he said.

Shami’s most memorable career moment came when he joined the ODI team. “There was a tradition then to stand on a chair or a stool and give a speech,” he recalled. “When I stood up and started seeing the faces, then I was left speechless. When I stepped into a meeting that had the top batsmen and the top bowlers, I just couldn’t comprehend (what to say). But even today I haven’t forgotten that meeting.”

Taylor Fritz Reaches First Grand Slam Semifinal at US Open

Taylor Fritz Reaches First Grand Slam Semifinal at US Open

Taylor Fritz has made history by becoming the fourth active American man to reach a Grand Slam semifinal after defeating Alexander Zverev in a thrilling five-set battle at the US Open. The 26-year-old American triumphed 7-6 (2), 3-6, 6-4, 7-6 (3) to secure his spot in the last four.

Fritz’s previous best results at Grand Slams were four quarterfinal finishes, including Wimbledon in 2022, the US Open in 2023, and the Australian Open and Wimbledon this year. His victory over Zverev marks a significant milestone in his career and places him among the elite players in the world.

The American’s success is a testament to his hard work and dedication. He has consistently improved his game over the past few years, and his victory at the US Open is a culmination of his efforts. Fritz’s powerful serve and aggressive baseline play proved too much for Zverev to handle.

Fritz’s victory is also a positive sign for American tennis. He joins Frances Tiafoe, Tommy Paul, and Ben Shelton as the only active American men to reach a major semifinal. Tiafoe will play Grigor Dimitrov in the night-time quarterfinal tonight, and if he wins, he’ll become the only active American man to reach more than one Grand Slam semifinal in his career.

Fritz’s success is a reminder that American tennis is on the rise. With a new generation of talented players emerging, the future looks bright for the sport in the United States.

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