Toronto Nationals Crowned Global T20 Canada Champions

Toronto Nationals Crowned Global T20 Canada Champions

Toronto Nationals emerged victorious in the fourth season of the Global T20 Canada, dethroning defending champions Montreal Tigers by a dominant 8-wicket margin in a thrilling final.

Toronto skipper Colin Munro’s decision to field first proved fruitful as Montreal’s batting lineup collapsed, managing a meager 96/9 in their allotted 20 overs. Australian pacer Jason Behrendorff led the charge with an impressive 3/8 in his four overs, triggering a top-order collapse that put Toronto in control.

Despite challenging batting conditions and a rain delay, Toronto’s Andries Gous played a pivotal role in securing victory. Despite suffering a broken finger, Gous remained unbeaten on 58 runs off 49 balls, guiding his team to a comfortable win.

Montreal’s innings was characterized by a series of early setbacks. Opener Praveen Kumar was dismissed in the second over, followed by Gerhard Erasmus and Tim Seifert in consecutive deliveries. Chris Lynn and Sherfane Rutherford also departed cheaply, leaving the Tigers in disarray.

Corbin Bosch and Jaskaran Singh provided some resistance with a 46-run partnership, but it was not enough to prevent Toronto from taking control of the match.

Toronto’s chase got off to a shaky start with Munro dismissed for nought. However, Gous and Rassie van der Dussen (30 not out) forged an unbeaten 85-run partnership to seal the victory without further hiccups.

Romario Shepherd was named the bowler of the tournament for his 14 wickets, while George Munsey was recognized as the batter of the tournament for his 218 runs. Canadian youngster Dilpreet Bajwa was awarded the Emerging Player of the tournament, and Junaid Siddique was named the Player of the tournament.

Toronto Nationals’ triumph marks their maiden title in the Global T20 Canada, solidifying their status as one of North America’s premier T20 teams.

India Bags Six Medals at Paris Olympics 2024, One Short of Tokyo Haul

India Bags Six Medals at Paris Olympics 2024, One Short of Tokyo Haul

India’s Paris Olympics 2024 campaign concluded with a respectable six medals, just one shy of their historic Tokyo 2020 haul. The nation’s most successful Olympic outing remains Tokyo 2020, where they secured seven medals.

Manu Bhaker emerged as a shooting star, claiming two bronze medals in the individual and mixed team events. Swapnil Kusale also contributed a bronze in shooting. Neeraj Chopra, the reigning Olympic champion in men’s javelin throw, added a silver to his collection. The men’s hockey team fought valiantly to secure a bronze medal against Spain. Aman Sehrawat rounded out India’s medal tally with a bronze in wrestling.

The possibility of India matching their Tokyo 2020 medal count remains open, pending the outcome of Vinesh Phogat’s appeal to the Court of Arbitration for Sport (CAS). If successful, she could be awarded a joint silver medal.

India's Paris Olympics Performance: Mixed Bag with No Gold Medals

India’s Paris Olympics Performance: Mixed Bag with No Gold Medals

Abhinav Bindra, India’s first individual Olympic gold medalist, expressed mixed emotions about India’s performance at the 2024 Paris Olympics. While acknowledging the team’s achievement in matching its London 2012 medal haul, Bindra lamented the absence of a gold medal.

India sent a 117-member contingent to Paris, hoping to surpass its previous best Olympic performance in Tokyo. However, the team returned with six medals: five bronze and one silver. Bindra believes this result falls short of expectations, particularly in terms of gold medals.

“The Olympics is an incredibly challenging platform to perform on,” Bindra said. “External and internal expectations can hinder athletes from letting go and performing at their best.”

India’s campaign began promisingly with Manu Bhaker winning two bronze medals in shooting. Swapnil Kusale added a third bronze in the men’s 50m rifle 3 position. However, the badminton, boxing, and archery contingents failed to deliver medals.

In the final days of the Games, Neeraj Chopra won a silver medal in javelin throw, while the men’s hockey team and wrestler Aman Sehrawat clinched bronze. Vinesh Phogat’s disqualification prevented India from potentially winning a gold medal in wrestling.

Despite the disappointment, Bindra emphasized the importance of continued investment in Olympic sports. “We must consolidate the gains that have been made and work harder to get there,” he said.

Bindra believes that India’s athletes have performed well overall, but the lack of gold medals remains a concern. He urged athletes to focus on their own performance rather than external expectations.

Domestic Cricket Contracts Announced: Hinds, Magicians Make Key Additions

Domestic Cricket Contracts Announced: Hinds, Magicians Make Key Additions

New Zealand’s domestic cricket season is set to kick off soon, and several provinces have announced their contracted players for the upcoming campaign. Here’s a comprehensive overview of the latest updates:

Central Hinds:

Central Hinds captain Natalie Dodd has opted out of the contracting process due to her pregnancy. The team has signed Anna Gaging, who joins her twin sister Kate on the roster. Last season’s young additions, Aniela Apperley, Emma McLeod, and Flora Devonshire, have retained their spots. The captaincy remains undecided, with Hannah Rowe a potential candidate.

Canterbury Magicians:

Kate Anderson has returned to the Canterbury Magicians after missing out on an NZC central contract. Harriet Graham has earned her first domestic contract after impressing in the wider squad. The team is committed to developing young talent, with senior players providing guidance and support.

Other Updates:

Other provinces have also announced their contracted players. Northern Districts has retained the core of its squad, including White Ferns stars Suzie Bates and Lauren Down. Wellington Blaze has signed promising all-rounder Georgia Plimmer, while Otago Sparks has added experienced batter Katey Martin.

Key Points:

* Natalie Dodd’s absence creates an opportunity for other players to step up for Central Hinds.
* Canterbury Magicians are focused on developing young talent and providing a supportive environment.
* Several provinces have retained their key players, while others have added promising additions.
* The upcoming domestic season promises to be competitive and exciting, with a mix of experienced and emerging players.

Punjab FC Triumphs Over Mumbai City FC in Durand Cup Group C Finale

Punjab FC Triumphs Over Mumbai City FC in Durand Cup Group C Finale

Punjab FC emerged victorious in their final Group C match of the 133rd Durand Cup, defeating Mumbai City FC 3-0 at the Kishore Bharati Stadium on Sunday. The win propelled Punjab FC to the top of the group standings, while Mumbai City FC, fielding a young reserve team, finished without a point.

Norwegian forward Mushaga Bakenga was the star of the show for Punjab FC, scoring twice, including a crucial penalty in injury time. Croatian midfielder Filip Mrzljak also found the net for the winning side.

The match began with Punjab FC dominating possession and creating several chances. However, Mumbai City FC’s young defenders held firm, preventing the Shers from finding the breakthrough.

As the first half progressed, Mumbai City FC grew into the game and began to threaten Punjab FC’s goal. However, the Shers’ defense remained resolute, and the teams went into the break with the score still 0-0.

The second half saw Punjab FC continue to press for the opening goal. Their efforts were rewarded in the 62nd minute when Bakenga broke the deadlock with a clinical finish.

Mumbai City FC responded well to the setback and pushed for an equalizer. However, Punjab FC’s defense held strong, and the Shers doubled their lead in the 90th minute through Mrzljak.

In the dying moments of the match, Mumbai City FC conceded a penalty, which Bakenga converted to seal the victory for Punjab FC.

The win sees Punjab FC finish their group league engagements tied with Kerala Blasters on seven points. However, Kerala Blasters took the top spot in the final standings for having a superior goal difference. Punjab FC remains the best second-placed team currently in the tournament and will now have to wait for the results of the other matches to confirm its place in the knockouts.

Samarawickrama's 86 Powers Sri Lanka to T20I Victory over Ireland

Samarawickrama’s 86 Powers Sri Lanka to T20I Victory over Ireland

Sri Lanka’s women’s cricket team made a triumphant start to their T20I series against Ireland in Dublin, securing a comfortable seven-wicket victory in the first match. The victory was largely orchestrated by the brilliance of Harshitha Samarawickrama, who smashed an unbeaten 86 off just 45 deliveries.

Ireland, after being sent in to bat, posted a competitive total of 145 for 6. Opener Gaby Lewis (39) and Oria Prendergast (29) provided a solid foundation with a 59-run partnership for the second wicket. Captain Laura Delany (25) and Rebecca Stokell (21*) also made valuable contributions.

However, Sri Lanka’s batting lineup proved too strong for Ireland’s bowlers. Samarawickrama, fresh off her top-scoring performance in the Asia Cup final, once again led the charge. She combined with Vishmi Gunaratne (30) for an 83-run opening stand, setting the platform for a successful chase.

Samarawickrama continued to dominate the innings, hitting 15 fours and a six. She received support from the rest of the top order, with Nilakshi de Silva (15) and Kavisha Dilhari (14) making useful contributions.

Ireland’s bowlers struggled to contain Samarawickrama’s onslaught. Freya Sargent, Arlene Kelly, and Delany each picked up a wicket, but they were unable to stem the flow of runs.

On the bowling front, Sri Lanka’s left-arm seam duo of Udeshika Prabhodani and Sugandika Kumari kept Ireland’s scoring in check. Offspinner Inoshi Priyadharshani was the pick of the bowlers, claiming 2 for 35.

The victory is a significant boost for Sri Lanka, who are without their star player Chamari Athapaththu. Samarawickrama’s 86 not out is the fourth-highest T20I score by a Sri Lanka batter and the highest by anyone other than Athapaththu.

Rohit, Kohli to Lead Star-Studded Duleep Trophy Squad Ahead of Bangladesh Tests

Rohit, Kohli to Lead Star-Studded Duleep Trophy Squad Ahead of Bangladesh Tests

India’s Test Stalwarts Set to Grace Duleep Trophy in Preparation for Bangladesh Series

In anticipation of India’s upcoming Test series against Bangladesh, the Duleep Trophy, scheduled to commence on September 5 in Anantapur, Andhra Pradesh, is set to feature a star-studded lineup. India captain Rohit Sharma and former skipper Virat Kohli are expected to lead the charge, alongside a host of other prominent players.

The tournament will serve as a crucial platform for the Indian selectors to assess the form and readiness of key players ahead of the Bangladesh series. The Indian Express reports that the Duleep Trophy will showcase the talents of Shubman Gill, KL Rahul, Axar Patel, Ravindra Jadeja, Yashasvi Jaiswal, Suryakumar Yadav, and Kuldeep Yadav.

However, ace pacer Jasprit Bumrah will not participate in the Duleep Trophy due to an extended rest period. The senior selection committee will deliberate on Bumrah’s availability for the two-Test series against Bangladesh.

With India facing a demanding schedule of 10 Test matches over the next four months, including five against Australia, the Duleep Trophy will provide invaluable match practice for the players. The tournament will run from September 5 to September 24, offering ample opportunity for the players to showcase their skills and prepare for the challenges ahead.

The inclusion of top players is expected to enhance the competitiveness and appeal of the Duleep Trophy. The tournament will provide a glimpse of India’s Test team in the making, as the players strive to prove their worth and secure their place in the squad for the Bangladesh series.

The first Test between India and Bangladesh will commence in Chennai on September 19. The Duleep Trophy will serve as a crucial stepping stone for the Indian team as they gear up for this important series.

Pakistani Javelin Thrower Arshad Nadeem Receives Hero's Welcome Upon Olympic Triumph

Pakistani Javelin Thrower Arshad Nadeem Receives Hero’s Welcome Upon Olympic Triumph

Pakistani javelin thrower Arshad Nadeem received a rousing welcome upon his triumphant return from the Paris Olympics, where he etched his name in history as the first Pakistani to win an individual gold medal.

Nadeem’s arrival at the Allama Iqbal International Airport in Lahore was met with a grand reception, complete with a water cannon salute and a throng of adoring fans. The Olympic champion was mobbed by well-wishers, who hoisted him on their shoulders and showered him with garlands.

An emotional reunion with his family marked the occasion, as Nadeem embraced his mother, father, and elder brother. The crowd erupted in cheers as the family members garlanded the champion.

Nadeem’s journey to the Olympic gold was a testament to his unwavering determination and hard work. In the javelin final, he set a Games record of 92.97m, surpassing the previous mark set by Norway’s Andreas Thorkildsen in 2008.

The victory was a watershed moment for Pakistan, which had not won an individual gold medal since the 1984 Los Angeles Olympics. Nadeem’s triumph also made him the first track and field athlete from Pakistan to clinch the Olympic gold.

The outpouring of support and admiration for Nadeem reflects the pride and joy that his achievement has brought to the nation. His victory has inspired countless young Pakistanis to pursue their dreams and strive for excellence.

Nadeem’s return home was a fitting tribute to his historic accomplishment. The grand reception and the emotional reunion with his family captured the essence of the nation’s gratitude and admiration for its Olympic hero.

Vinesh Phogat's CAS Appeal for Silver Medal Awaits Verdict

Vinesh Phogat’s CAS Appeal for Silver Medal Awaits Verdict

India’s Olympic campaign in Paris concluded with six medals, but the nation eagerly awaits a potential seventh that could match their Tokyo Games record. The Indian Olympic Association (IOA) has appealed to the Court of Arbitration for Sports (CAS) on behalf of wrestler Vinesh Phogat, who was disqualified from the gold-medal bout in the women’s 50kg freestyle event due to being 100 grams overweight.

Vinesh’s team presented their case to CAS, arguing that her weight gain was due to the distance between the competition venue and the Athletes Village, as well as the tight schedule between bouts. They emphasized that the excess weight did not provide her with any competitive advantage and was a result of natural recovery processes.

Vinesh’s legal team also invoked the principle of proportionality, arguing that the consequences of her disqualification were disproportionate to the minor weight excess. They highlighted her hard work and the silver medal she earned through her performance.

Despite criticism of the IOA medical team, the association has expressed unwavering support for Vinesh. IOA President PT Usha stated that the association considers it their duty to back her.

The CAS is expected to announce its verdict on Vinesh’s plea on August 13. If successful, India could match their best-ever Olympic medal tally of seven.

India's Hockey Bronze: A Triumph with a Golden Scar

India’s Hockey Bronze: A Triumph with a Golden Scar

India’s recent Olympic hockey success, with back-to-back bronze medals in Tokyo and Paris, has been a remarkable achievement. Midfielder Hardik Singh, a key player in both campaigns, reflects on the significance of these medals and the journey that led to them.

Hardik acknowledges that the bronze in Paris carries a bittersweet tinge. While it is a testament to the team’s hard work and resilience, it also serves as a reminder of their narrow miss in the semi-final against Germany. “We were just inches away from that,” he says, referring to the 3-2 defeat.

Despite the disappointment, Hardik emphasizes the value of the Olympic medal. “We had seen everyone in India go crazy after we won the medal in Tokyo,” he says. “We knew the importance of an Olympic medal.”

The team’s ability to bounce back from the semi-final loss and secure bronze against Spain is a testament to their mental fortitude. Hardik credits the guidance of coach Graham Reid, who instilled a defensive structure that allowed them to protect their lead.

Hardik also acknowledges the contributions of previous generations of players who paved the way for their success. “The credit for these medals goes to all the players who were a part of the Indian team since 2008,” he says. “They took the hard steps, not us.”

Hardik’s family played a significant role in his journey. His parents were present at every match in Paris, providing emotional support. “My mother was crying all the time,” he recalls. “When we were leading, she was worried that we might concede. When we were trailing, she was worried that we don’t concede too many goals.”

Hardik’s hockey heritage, with his father and uncles being former international players, has instilled in him a deep appreciation for the sport. He believes that the team’s success is a collective effort, spanning generations of players.

As India looks ahead to the 2026 World Cup, Hardik remains focused on the ultimate goal: an Olympic gold medal. “We want to win the gold there,” he says. “That is the scar that will be there for a long time.”

Home
Shop
Wishlist0
Back to Top

Search For Products

Product has been added to your cart