Ashutosh Singh Appointed as Indian Davis Cup Coach for Sweden Tie

Ashutosh Singh Appointed as Indian Davis Cup Coach for Sweden Tie

The Indian Davis Cup team will embark on a new chapter under the guidance of former national champion Ashutosh Singh. Singh will lead the team in their World Group first round tie against Sweden, scheduled for September 14-15 in Stockholm.

Singh’s appointment comes after long-time coach Zeeshan Ali stepped down from the role. The All India Tennis Association (AITA) has placed its trust in Singh, who played a pivotal role in preparing the team for their previous tie against Pakistan.

The Indian team will be spearheaded by Sumit Nagal, the country’s top-ranked player. Nagal will be joined by Ramkumar Ramanathan, Sriram Balaji, Niki Poonacha, and Siddharth Vishwakarma.

Vishwakarma, the reigning National and National Games champion, has earned his place in the team after a string of impressive results on the professional circuit. Bright youngster Aryan Shah has been named as the reserve player.

Rohit Rajpal will continue to serve as the team’s captain, while Yash Pandey and Debashish Das will provide medical support.

AITA Secretary General Anil Dhupar expressed confidence in the team’s ability to perform well in Sweden. “We have a strong team with a good mix of experience and youth,” Dhupar said. “We are confident that they will put up a good fight against Sweden.”

The Indian team will face a tough challenge against Sweden, who will be led by world No. 18 Mikael Ymer. However, the Indians will be buoyed by their recent victory over Pakistan and will be determined to make a mark on the world stage.

Premier League Introduces New Rule for Matchday Squad Announcements

Premier League Introduces New Rule for Matchday Squad Announcements

The Premier League 2024-25 season kicks off this weekend, bringing with it a significant change to the traditional matchday routine. Clubs will now have an additional 15 minutes to release their team sheets, moving the deadline to 75 minutes before kick-off.

This rule adjustment aligns with UEFA regulations and aims to enhance the competitiveness of matches. By providing managers with less time for last-minute changes, the new rule encourages more strategic planning and reduces the potential for tactical surprises.

The Premier League handbook now stipulates that team sheets must be submitted “at least 75 minutes before the time fixed for the kick-off of a league match.” Clubs are required to provide the shirt numbers and names of participating players, including substitutes, as well as the color of their uniforms and the names of up to seven officials occupying the trainer’s bench.

The change also affects the pre-match briefing between managers and the referee, which must now take place at least 60 minutes before kick-off. This briefing provides an opportunity for managers to discuss any potential issues or concerns with the referee.

The Premier League’s decision to adopt this new rule is a testament to its commitment to improving the quality and fairness of its matches. By giving managers less time to make changes, the league hopes to create a more level playing field and increase the excitement for fans.

Ishan Kishan's Stunning Return to Red-Ball Cricket

Ishan Kishan’s Stunning Return to Red-Ball Cricket

Ishan Kishan, the wicket-keeper batter, is making a strong comeback to red-ball cricket with impressive performances in the Buchi Babu Invitation Cricket Tournament. Having been included in the India C squad for the Duleep Trophy, Kishan is determined to regain his place in the Indian team.

In the match against Madhya Pradesh, Kishan showcased his exceptional wicket-keeping skills, taking three well-timed catches. His final catch, a stunning diving effort to dismiss Ramveer Gurjar, was the highlight of the day. Kishan’s other two catches, off the bowling of Chanchal Rathore and Aditya Singh, demonstrated his presence of mind and quick reflexes.

Kishan’s return to form is a welcome sign for the Indian selectors, who have been monitoring his progress closely. After a disappointing IPL season with Mumbai Indians, Kishan was left out of the BCCI’s central contract list. However, his inclusion in the Duleep Trophy squad indicates that he is still in contention for a national call-up.

The Duleep Trophy, a prestigious domestic tournament, will provide Kishan with an ideal platform to showcase his skills and prove his worth to the selectors. If he continues to perform at a high level, he could earn a recall to the Indian team for the upcoming series against Australia.

Kishan’s journey back to the Indian setup has been a challenging one. However, his determination and resilience have been evident throughout. With his impressive performances in the Buchi Babu Invitation Cricket Tournament, Kishan has taken a significant step towards achieving his goal of representing India once again.

Adani Group Becomes Title Sponsor of Inaugural Delhi Premier League

Adani Group Becomes Title Sponsor of Inaugural Delhi Premier League

The Delhi Premier League (DPL), a highly anticipated T20 cricket league organized by the Delhi & District Cricket Association (DDCA), has secured Adani Group as its title sponsor for the inaugural season. This partnership marks a significant milestone for the league, aligning with its vision of promoting and developing cricket in the capital.

Adani Group, a leading Indian conglomerate, has made substantial investments in sports through its sports wing, Adani Sportsline. The group’s involvement in the Women’s Premier League (WPL), Pro Kabaddi League, and Ultimate Kho Kho League demonstrates its commitment to fostering sporting excellence. Adani Sportsline also supports renowned athletes, including chess prodigy R Praggnanandhaa.

The DPL aims to provide a platform for emerging cricket talent while delivering top-tier entertainment. The addition of Adani Group as the title sponsor further elevates the league’s prestige and its potential impact on the region’s sporting landscape.

Rohan Jaitley, president of the DDCA, expressed his enthusiasm for the partnership: “We are thrilled to welcome Adani Group as the title sponsor of the Delhi Premier League. Their support is a testament to the league’s potential and our shared commitment to fostering the growth of cricket in Delhi. With Adani Group’s involvement, we are confident that the DPL will set new benchmarks in sports excellence and fan engagement.”

A spokesperson for Adani Group commented: “We are proud to associate with the Delhi Premier League T20 as its title sponsor. Cricket is a unifying force in our country, and through our partnership with the DPL T20, we aim to support the development of cricketing talent and contribute to the sport’s growth in Delhi. The Adani Group is committed to nurturing excellence and creating impactful opportunities, and we see the DPL T20 as a perfect platform to achieve these goals.”

As title sponsor, Adani Group will play a pivotal role in shaping the league’s identity, with the DPL T20 officially branded as the ‘Adani Delhi Premier League T20’. The league is scheduled to take place from August 17 to September 8, featuring six men’s and four women’s teams competing in 40 matches at the iconic Arun Jaitley Stadium in New Delhi.

The opening match of the DPL T20 will be between Purani Dilli 6 and South Delhi Superstars on Saturday at 8:30 pm IST. All matches will be streamed live on JioCinema for free and telecasted on Sports18-2.

BCB President Nazmul Hassan Papon Offers to Resign Amidst Reform Calls

BCB President Nazmul Hassan Papon Offers to Resign Amidst Reform Calls

Amidst the political turmoil in Bangladesh, the Bangladesh Cricket Board (BCB) is facing calls for reform. Board president Nazmul Hassan Papon has reportedly offered to resign to facilitate cooperation with the Muhammad Yunus-led government.

Papon, who is currently serving his fourth term as BCB president, has been in hiding in London since the unrest began. Former BCB officials and organizers have gathered at the Sher-e-Bangla National Cricket Stadium to demand his resignation.

According to a BCB director, Papon is willing to step down and cooperate with the government to bring about reforms in the board. The director stated that Papon is prepared to request a board meeting to accept his resignation and hold elections for a new president.

Another BCB director emphasized the need for cooperation from the interim government if the board is to be run by an elected body. The director explained that the board would need to accept Papon’s resignation and fill the vacancy through an election among the 25 board directors.

The BCB’s constitution dictates that any resignation must be submitted to the board, which will then decide whether to accept or reject it. If accepted, an election will be held to fill the vacant position.

The political instability in Bangladesh has cast a shadow over the BCB, with calls for reform growing louder. Papon’s offer to resign is seen as a step towards addressing these concerns and bringing about positive change in the board.

Premier League 2024-25: Five Key Talking Points

Premier League 2024-25: Five Key Talking Points

The 2024-25 Premier League season promises to be an enthralling spectacle, with a host of intriguing storylines and captivating matchups. Here are five key talking points to watch out for:

1. Arsenal’s Title Ambitions:

After narrowly missing out on the title last season, Arsenal will be determined to mount a stronger challenge this time around. Mikel Arteta’s side has shown glimpses of brilliance, but they need to maintain consistency and avoid costly slip-ups.

2. Aston Villa’s Champions League Adventure:

Aston Villa’s remarkable fourth-place finish last season earned them a spot in the prestigious Champions League. Unai Emery’s team will face a daunting task as they navigate the rigors of European competition while also competing in domestic cups.

3. Erling Haaland’s Goal-Scoring Prowess:

Manchester City’s Erling Haaland is poised to continue his prolific goal-scoring form. The Norwegian striker has already established himself as one of the most lethal finishers in the league, and he will be eager to add to his tally this season.

4. Leicester City’s Return and Jamie Vardy’s Farewell:

Leicester City’s immediate return to the Premier League after relegation is a testament to their resilience. All eyes will be on Jamie Vardy, who is entering the twilight of his career. Can the veteran striker lead the Foxes to another surprise title challenge?

5. Arne Slot’s Liverpool Era Begins:

Jurgen Klopp’s departure from Liverpool marks the end of an era. Arne Slot has taken over the reins, and he will be tasked with maintaining the club’s high standards and challenging for major trophies.

Nike's Innovation and Design Leaders Unveil the Future of Athletic Performance

Nike’s Innovation and Design Leaders Unveil the Future of Athletic Performance

Nike’s Innovation and Design Leaders Showcase the Art of Victory at the Olympics

During the recent Olympics, Nike’s top executives, Chief Innovation Officer John Hoke and Chief Design Officer Martin Lotti, opened up about the brand’s innovative spirit and the inspiration behind its iconic Air technology. At the Centre Pompidou in Paris, they guided a group of content creators and influencers through the brand’s “Art of Victory” exhibit, highlighting the connection between art and athletic performance.

Hoke emphasized the importance of collaboration with top athletes, explaining that Nike designs shoes in conjunction with them to meet their specific needs and goals. These features eventually trickle down to shoes available to the public. Lotti, a Swiss native who has worked with Nike in Oregon for 27 years, considers himself a global citizen and believes that the brand’s work extends beyond shoes to include all aspects of athletic apparel.

The “Art of Victory” exhibit showcased 13 future designs, but Lotti revealed that Nike works with approximately 13,000 athletes, whose input is invaluable. The brand’s focus on innovation extends beyond footwear, encompassing everything an athlete wears to enhance performance.

Manu Bhaker Takes Three-Month Break to Heal Injured Hand, Pursue Hobbies

Manu Bhaker Takes Three-Month Break to Heal Injured Hand, Pursue Hobbies

Manu Bhaker, India’s double Olympic medalist in shooting, is taking a well-deserved three-month break to recover from a bruised shooting hand. However, this break is not a vacation for the 22-year-old. She will continue her daily routines, including yoga and waking up at 6 am, and pursue her hobbies, such as horse riding, skating, Bharatnatyam, and violin practice.

Bhaker’s shooting hand has been injured for the past eight months due to repeated pistol recoils during training. The break is necessary for her hand to heal fully. Despite the injury, Bhaker remains optimistic and plans to make the most of her time off.

“Now, I have some time off and I can probably do that (martial arts) again,” said Bhaker, who was a karate kid in her teens before switching to shooting. “I was not able to get that kind of time to invest myself into that (martial arts). Finally, I can take time off for my hobbies, and I have many, many hobbies.”

Bhaker’s hobbies include horse riding, skating, fitness, Bharatnatyam, and violin. She is particularly excited about horse riding, which she has been learning for some time. However, her coach, Jaspal Rana, has expressed disapproval of this hobby, citing safety concerns.

“Skating and horse riding are something she should not be doing and she’ll be responsible for whatever happens,” said Rana. “Who rides a horse thinking that they will fall?”

Bhaker is determined to pursue her hobbies responsibly and has assured Rana that she will be careful. She is also looking forward to skydiving and scuba diving, which she has been waiting to do for a long time.

Rana emphasized that the break is essential for Bhaker’s recovery. “This (pointing to her injured hand) is the reason we are making her rest for three months. Because this (injury) has been for the last eight months and it has not healed till now,” said Rana.

Bhaker will not compete in the ISSF World Cup Final in October or the national championships and camps that will follow. She will focus on her recovery and return to shooting in three months.

Steve Smith Eyes IPL Return After MLC Title Triumph

Steve Smith Eyes IPL Return After MLC Title Triumph

Steve Smith, the veteran Australian batter, has expressed his desire to return to the Indian Premier League (IPL) next year after leading Washington Freedom to their first Major League Cricket (MLC) title. At 35, Smith has not played in the IPL since 2021, having gone unsold in the last two auctions.

Despite being overlooked for the T20 World Cup and the upcoming tours of Scotland and England, Smith remains optimistic about his chances of making a comeback in the IPL. “I’d certainly love another opportunity at IPL. I’ll be throwing my name in the ring, and we’ll see how we go,” Smith said.

Smith’s standout performance in the MLC came in the final against the San Francisco Unicorns, where he scored an 88 off 52 balls against bowlers like Australian captain Pat Cummins and Pakistan’s Haris Rauf. His effort earned him the player-of-the-match award in the final.

Smith’s return to form in the MLC has raised questions about his omission from the Australian T20I team. However, Smith understands the team’s decision to focus on younger players. “In terms of international T20s, I don’t know what’s going on there,” Smith said. “They’ve obviously got some people they want to bring in, and that’s fine.”

Despite the setbacks, Smith remains focused on improving his game. “I’ll just go about my business, keep trying to improve and get better,” he said.

Smith also expressed interest in representing Australia at the 2028 Los Angeles Olympics, where cricket will make its debut. “That’s still a while away as well, so we’ll wait and see. Never say never,” Smith said.

Parisian Volunteer Enchants Spectators at Eiffel Tower Olympic Venue

Parisian Volunteer Enchants Spectators at Eiffel Tower Olympic Venue

Joévin Burnel, a lifelong Parisian, has witnessed the Eiffel Tower countless times. Yet, the iconic structure continues to captivate him, especially during the Olympic Games. As a spectator experience volunteer at the Stade de Tour Eiffel, Burnel has spent countless hours at the venue, marveling at the beach volleyball matches and the breathtaking sunsets.

“It’s magical,” Burnel enthuses. “This is the best sports venue in the world, and it’s right in my city.” Despite not playing beach volleyball himself, Burnel is captivated by its fast-paced action and the vibrant atmosphere surrounding the temporary stadium.

Burnel’s Olympic experience has been enriched by the success of French swimmer Leon Marchand. However, he expresses a tinge of regret at not having collected any Olympic pins. “Everyone in the media tribune has so many pins,” he says, pointing to his empty lanyard.

Despite the long hours and physical demands of his volunteer role, Burnel remains enthusiastic. “I’m tired, but I’m happy,” he says. “This has been an incredible experience.”

Burnel’s passion for the Olympics and his love for Paris are evident in his dedication to providing a memorable experience for spectators. He believes that the Stade de Tour Eiffel is a testament to the city’s ability to host world-class sporting events.

As the Olympic Games draw to a close, Burnel reflects on the unforgettable moments he has shared at the Eiffel Tower. The magic of the structure, the excitement of the beach volleyball matches, and the camaraderie among volunteers have created memories that will last a lifetime.

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