News Archives

Vivianne Robinson: The Super Fan Returns for Paris 2024

By Nilay August 18, 2024 0

Vivianne Robinson, a dedicated Olympics enthusiast from Venice Beach, Florida, is making her sixth Olympic appearance in Paris 2024. Her passion for the Games has led her to travel to various venues, collect commemorative pins, and become a sought-after fan for photographs.

In Rio 2016, Robinson’s presence was ubiquitous, with fans eager to capture a moment with her. She had planned to attend the Tokyo Olympics but was thwarted by the COVID-19 pandemic. Undeterred, she has returned to Paris with a wardrobe tailored specifically for the occasion, including a white outfit adorned with the Paris 2024 mascot and a matching hat.

Despite the dispersed venues in Paris, Robinson’s enthusiasm remains undiminished. She has become a favorite of news crews, with her interviews trending on social media. Her unwavering support for the Games has led her to spend over $10,000, maxing out her credit cards and working multiple jobs to fund her trip.

“This Olympics is the most I have spent on any Olympics,” Robinson said. “I have bought tickets to 38 events… but I am having a good time watching the games. I was determined to see the Olympics in Paris.”

Robinson’s passion for the Olympics extends beyond the spectacle of the Games. She carries her collection of pins from previous Olympics, symbolizing her unity with the Olympic spirit. In Paris, she has embraced the role of a super fan, cheering on athletes and immersing herself in the atmosphere of the city she loves.

Categories: Others

Mohammed Shami Set for Ranji Trophy Return, Eyes International Comeback

By Nilay August 18, 2024 0

Mohammed Shami, India’s premier fast bowler, is poised to make a much-anticipated return to competitive cricket after undergoing ankle surgery earlier this year. The experienced pacer is expected to represent his state team, Bengal, in the upcoming Ranji Trophy matches, marking a significant step in his rehabilitation journey.

According to sources, Shami is likely to feature in at least one of Bengal’s initial Ranji fixtures, either against Uttar Pradesh on October 11 in an away game or versus Bihar in Kolkata on October 18. However, considering the short two-day gap between the matches, it is improbable that he will participate in both encounters.

Shami’s return to domestic cricket could potentially pave the way for his international comeback, with a possible appearance in one of the Test matches against New Zealand later this year. The Test series against New Zealand kicks off on October 19 in Bengaluru, with additional matches scheduled in Pune on October 24 and Mumbai on November 1. Shami is anticipated to participate in one of these games before heading to Australia for the major tour.

The 34-year-old speedster last represented India in the ODI World Cup final against Australia in Ahmedabad on November 19, 2022. Since then, Shami has not played any competitive matches due to undergoing ankle surgery in the United Kingdom in February of this year, which ruled him out for at least six months.

Although there were reports suggesting Shami might be available for the Duleep Trophy, it has been determined that he is unlikely to be fit for the tournament. The selectors are cautious about rushing his return prematurely, prioritizing his long-term fitness for the upcoming Test series in Australia.

Shami, one of India’s leading pace bowlers, has taken 229 wickets in 64 Tests, including six five-wicket hauls and 12 four-wicket hauls. His return to the national team will be a major boost for India’s bowling attack, which has been missing his experience and skill.

Categories: Cricket

Vinesh Phogat Receives Grand Welcome After Olympic Disqualification

By Nilay August 18, 2024 0

Celebrated Indian wrestler Vinesh Phogat received a rousing welcome upon her return to India after her controversial disqualification at the Paris Olympics. Hundreds of supporters gathered outside the Indira Gandhi International Airport in Delhi, expressing their solidarity with Phogat, who was disqualified for being overweight after reaching the 50kg final.

The outpouring of support continued during a roadshow from Delhi to Phogat’s native village of Balali. Along the 135km journey, she was felicitated by supporters and ‘khap’ panchayats in several villages, extending the trip to nearly 13 hours.

In Balali, Phogat was greeted with a gold medal by community elders, a testament to the pride and admiration she has brought to her village. Despite the late hour, a massive crowd attended the felicitation ceremony.

Overwhelmed by the reception, Phogat expressed her gratitude and her desire to train women wrestlers from Balali to achieve even greater success than herself. She emphasized the importance of support and encouragement for aspiring female wrestlers.

Phogat’s disqualification had sparked outrage in India and the wrestling world. Her appeal to the Court of Arbitration for Sport (CAS) was rejected, but her determination and resilience have inspired many.

Upon reaching her village, Phogat addressed the gathering, expressing her hope that someone from Balali would surpass her achievements. She urged the community to support women wrestlers and provide them with the necessary resources to excel.

Phogat’s journey has been marked by both triumph and adversity. She is a two-time Commonwealth Games gold medalist, Asian Games champion, and has won eight Asian Championships medals. Her disqualification at the Olympics was a setback, but it has not diminished her spirit or her commitment to the sport.

Phogat’s return to India has been a celebration of her achievements and a reminder of the power of resilience and determination. Her story continues to inspire aspiring wrestlers and serves as a testament to the indomitable spirit of Indian athletes.

Categories: Others

Khaleel Ahmed: MS Dhoni, My ‘Guru’ and the Architect of My Dreams

By Nilay August 18, 2024 0

Khaleel Ahmed: MS Dhoni, My ‘Guru’ and the Architect of My Dreams

Indian pacer Khaleel Ahmed has expressed his profound admiration for legendary cricketer MS Dhoni, describing him as his “guru” and sharing anecdotes that illuminate their exceptional bond.

In a candid conversation with Aakash Chopra on his YouTube channel, Khaleel, who made his ODI debut in the 2018 Asia Cup, recalled a cherished moment when Dhoni, captaining the team in Rohit Sharma’s absence, entrusted him with bowling the first over against Afghanistan.

“Mahi bhai is not my friend, not my elder brother, he is my guru,” Khaleel emphasized, revealing a deep respect that transcends typical teammate dynamics. He explained how this gesture fulfilled a childhood dream, inspired by watching his idol Zaheer Khan open the bowling for India.

“Since my childhood, I wanted to become the bowler who took the first over from India since I had watched Zaheer Khan growing up. In the Asia Cup, Mahi bhai asked me to bowl the first over. I ran so hard, away from the huddle thinking that if I give it time he might change his mind,” Khaleel confessed, stressing the significance of the moment and the immense trust Dhoni placed in him.

Khaleel also shared the story behind a viral photo of him receiving flowers from Dhoni. The incident took place during India’s tour of New Zealand, where Dhoni gifted him flowers he had received from fans.

“We were in New Zealand, Mahi bhai’s fans had given him flowers, he passed it onto me and some fans took a photo, it was quite memorable for me,” the pacer added.

Dhoni, who last played in IPL 2024 for Chennai Super Kings, continues to be revered for his leadership qualities and his ability to nurture talent. While his future in IPL remains uncertain, his legacy as a captain and mentor continues to inspire a generation of cricketers.

Categories: Cricket

Suryakumar Yadav Breaks Silence on Kolkata Rape-Murder Case, Urges Education for Men

By Nilay August 18, 2024 0

India’s T20I Captain Suryakumar Yadav Condemns Kolkata Rape-Murder Case

As the nation reels from the horrific rape and murder of a trainee doctor at Kolkata’s RG Kar Medical College and Hospital, India’s T20I captain Suryakumar Yadav has joined the chorus of voices condemning the heinous crime.

Yadav took to Instagram to share a powerful message, urging society to educate men about respecting women. “Educate your son and your brothers and your father and your husband and your friends,” read the template post he shared.

Yadav’s stance echoes the sentiments expressed by other prominent cricketers, including Jasprit Bumrah, Mohammed Siraj, Mohammed Shami, and Jemimah Rodrigues. Bumrah re-shared a post by Bollywood actress Alia Bhatt, highlighting the ongoing threat to women’s safety and the lack of progress since the Nirbhaya tragedy.

Siraj, on the other hand, shared a collage of news headlines on rape cases, questioning society’s excuses and blaming men for their actions.

The tragedy has also sparked protests in Kolkata, with supporters of East Bengal and Mohun Bagan, two of the city’s biggest football clubs, holding a joint demonstration outside the Salt Lake Stadium. They were joined by fans of Mohammedan Sporting Club, who will participate in the Indian Super League this season.

The prime suspect in the case is Sanjoy Roy, a civic volunteer with Kolkata Police who had access to all departments at RG Kar Medical College and Hospital. The victim’s family alleges that multiple individuals may be involved.

The incident has reignited the debate on women’s safety in India, highlighting the urgent need for societal change and accountability. Yadav’s message and the reactions from other cricketers serve as a reminder that men must take responsibility for their actions and work towards creating a safer environment for women.

Categories: Football

Pakistan Drops Spinner Abrar Ahmed for First Test Against Bangladesh

By Nilay August 18, 2024 0

Pakistan’s decision to exclude leg-spinner Abrar Ahmed and uncapped batter Kamran Ghulam from their 17-man squad for the first Test against Bangladesh has drawn criticism from former cricketer Basit Ali. Ali believes that the selectors should have included a genuine spinner in the squad, especially considering the predicted rain during the match.

The Pakistan Cricket Board (PCB) announced the squad on Saturday, opting for an all-out pace attack with Shaheen Shah Afridi leading the charge. Naseem Shah, Mohammad Ali, Khurram Shehzad, and Mir Hamza will provide support. However, Ali argues that the management has failed to consider the conditions and should have included a specialist spinner.

“A genuine spinner should have been in the squad,” Ali said. “The management has failed to read the conditions. Rain is predicted, and a spinner would have been crucial.”

Abrar and Kamran have been released to play for Pakistan Shaheens in a four-day game against Bangladesh ‘A’ starting Tuesday. The PCB stated that Abrar needs match practice ahead of the second Test, which begins on August 30. Both players will rejoin the Test squad before the second match.

Pakistan last played a Test with an all-pace attack in 2019 against Sri Lanka. All-rounder Salman Ali Agha is now the only spin option available for the first Test. Agha has been consistent in Test matches since 2023, claiming crucial wickets for Pakistan.

The decision to drop Abrar and Kamran has raised questions about Pakistan’s strategy for the series. With rain expected, the inclusion of a spinner could have provided a significant advantage. However, the selectors have opted for an aggressive approach, relying on their pace attack to dominate Bangladesh.

Categories: Cricket

Sachin Tendulkar Introduces Reverse Swing to Grassroots Cricket

By Nilay August 18, 2024 0

Cricket legend Sachin Tendulkar, renowned for his mastery of reverse swing, has introduced this technique to the grassroots level of the sport through the Indian Street Premier League (ISPL). The ISPL, a tennis-ball tournament, aims to elevate the level of competition and challenge players technically.

Tendulkar, a key figure in the ISPL, recognized the need to balance advantages between batsmen and bowlers. He introduced reverse swing using taped tennis balls, a technique he employed during his international career. This innovation tests batsmen’s technique and adds a new dimension to the game.

Initially, bowlers in the ISPL struggled to generate reverse swing with taped balls. Tendulkar addressed this by conducting workshops with coaches, emphasizing the importance of targeting a specific spot and trusting their instincts. This adjustment enabled bowlers to regain control and utilize the taped ball effectively.

The second season of the ISPL, featuring six teams, will be held from January 26 to February 9, 2025, at the Dadoji Kondadev Stadium in Thane. Trials will be held across 55 cities in five zones starting in October, with provisions for additional camps in cities not included in the initial list.

Tendulkar’s introduction of reverse swing to the ISPL is a testament to his commitment to developing the game at all levels. By challenging players with this advanced technique, he aims to elevate the standard of street cricket and inspire future generations of cricketers.

Categories: Cricket

Hidalgo and Reyes-Varela Triumph in Santo Domingo Challenger Doubles Final

By Nilay August 18, 2024 0

In the $164,000 Challenger tennis tournament held in Santo Domingo, Dominican Republic, the second-seeded duo of Diego Hidalgo and Miguel Reyes-Varela emerged victorious in the doubles final. The Ecuadorian-Mexican pair overcame the challenge of Sriram Balaji and Fernando Romboli of India and Brazil in a thrilling three-set encounter.

The match commenced with a closely contested first set that went into a tiebreaker. Balaji and Romboli managed to edge out Hidalgo and Reyes-Varela 7-6(2) in the tiebreaker, giving them an early advantage. However, the second set saw a resurgence from the second seeds. They broke their opponents’ serve twice and held their own service games comfortably to level the match at 6-4.

The third set proved to be the most intense and dramatic. Both teams traded breaks early on, but Hidalgo and Reyes-Varela managed to gain a crucial break in the 16th game. With the score at 18-16 in the super tiebreaker, the Ecuadorian-Mexican duo sealed the victory, securing the championship title.

Hidalgo and Reyes-Varela’s triumph earned them 125 ATP points and a prize money of $9,350. Balaji and Romboli, despite their valiant effort, received 75 points and $5,440.

The victory marks a significant achievement for Hidalgo and Reyes-Varela, who have been steadily climbing the doubles rankings. They have now won two Challenger titles together and will look to continue their success in future tournaments.

Categories: Tennis

Kolkata Derby Canceled Amidst Protests Over Doctor’s Murder

By Nilay August 18, 2024 0

The highly anticipated Kolkata Derby, a clash between city giants Mohun Bagan Super Giant and Emami East Bengal FC, has been canceled due to ongoing protests over the tragic rape and murder of a doctor at R.G. Kar hospital in Kolkata. The decision to abandon the concluding Durand Cup Group A match was made a day before the scheduled date as the Bidhannagar Police Commissionerate, responsible for managing security at the Salt Lake Stadium, failed to commit adequate forces.

The organizers, the Indian Army and the Government of West Bengal, cited the “prevailing situation” as the reason for the cancellation. The city and its adjoining districts have been witnessing widespread protests, diverting police personnel away from the match. Additionally, there were concerns about the possibility of protests and demonstrations spilling over into the stadium, creating a major disturbance.

While no specific reason was given in the official statement, sources within the organizing committee indicated that the police commissionerate could not provide the necessary security to manage a ‘derby’ match, which typically attracts over 60,000 spectators.

The organizers have tentatively informed the teams that they will be awarded a point each. With both teams tied on six points from two wins each, the additional point will not alter their current positions. Mohun Bagan SG will take the top spot due to a better goal difference and advance to the quarterfinals, while East Bengal is also likely to qualify as one of the two second-placed teams.

The cancellation of the Kolkata Derby has disappointed fans and cast a shadow over the Durand Cup. The match is considered one of the most prestigious rivalries in Indian football, and its absence will be a significant loss for the tournament.

Categories: Football

India A Thrash Australia A by 172 Runs, Avoid Series Sweep

By Nilay August 18, 2024 0

India A registered a resounding 172-run victory over Australia A in the third and final one-day international in Mackay, Australia, on Sunday. The triumph marked India A’s first win of their tour and prevented a series sweep by the hosts.

Legspinner Priya Mishra, making her debut in the series, played a pivotal role in India A’s victory. She claimed a five-wicket haul, bowling out Australia A for a paltry 72 runs. The Australian side was dismissed within 23 overs, losing their last eight wickets for just 24 runs.

India A, batting first, posted a competitive total of 243 for 9. Tejal Hasabnis (50) and Raghvi Bist (53) shared a crucial 104-run partnership for the fourth wicket, lifting India A from a precarious 43 for 3. Sajeevan Sajana and captain Minnu Mani also made valuable contributions down the order.

Australia A’s chase got off to a disastrous start as S Yashasri dismissed opener Charli Knott for 11 in the fourth over. Meghna Singh then removed captain Tahlia McGrath in the following over. Mishra took over from there, bowling out Maddy Darke, Nicole Faltum, Tess Flintoff, Kate Peterson, and Hancock in quick succession.

Mishra’s impressive performance earned her figures of 5 for 14 in her five overs. She was ably supported by Yashasri, who finished with 2 for 19, and Singh, who claimed 2 for 21.

Despite the loss, Australia A won the series 2-1, having also clinched the T20 series 3-0. The two sides will now face off in an unofficial Test match from August 22.

Categories: Cricket

Vivianne Robinson: The Super Fan Returns for Paris 2024

Mohammed Shami Set for Ranji Trophy Return, Eyes International Comeback

Vinesh Phogat Receives Grand Welcome After Olympic Disqualification

Khaleel Ahmed: MS Dhoni, My ‘Guru’ and the Architect of My Dreams

Suryakumar Yadav Breaks Silence on Kolkata Rape-Murder Case, Urges Education for Men

Pakistan Drops Spinner Abrar Ahmed for First Test Against Bangladesh

Sachin Tendulkar Introduces Reverse Swing to Grassroots Cricket

Hidalgo and Reyes-Varela Triumph in Santo Domingo Challenger Doubles Final

Kolkata Derby Canceled Amidst Protests Over Doctor’s Murder

India A Thrash Australia A by 172 Runs, Avoid Series Sweep

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