Pooran's Heroics Power Superchargers to Comeback Win, Stokes Injured

Pooran’s Heroics Power Superchargers to Comeback Win, Stokes Injured

Northern Superchargers’ Nicholas Pooran played a pivotal role in their thrilling seven-wicket victory over Manchester Originals in The Hundred, smashing an unbeaten 66 off just 33 balls. The win keeps Superchargers’ hopes of reaching the knockout stages alive.

However, the match was overshadowed by an injury to England Test captain Ben Stokes, who is now a doubt for the upcoming series against Sri Lanka. Stokes sustained a suspected hamstring injury while running a single in the second innings.

Pooran’s heroics came after Manchester Originals had posted an imposing 156 for 3, with Phil Salt contributing 61. But Superchargers’ spinners, led by Mitchell Santner (3-24), restricted Originals’ scoring rate in the latter stages of their innings.

In the chase, Superchargers lost two early wickets but Pooran’s arrival at the crease changed the game. He struck eight sixes and four fours, ably supported by Harry Brook (43) and Adam Hose (26 not out).

The victory was a testament to Superchargers’ resilience and the brilliance of Pooran, who has been in exceptional form throughout the competition. However, the injury to Stokes is a major concern for England, who are set to face Sri Lanka in a three-Test series starting on August 21.

Ben Stokes Doubtful for England's First Test Against Sri Lanka

Ben Stokes Doubtful for England’s First Test Against Sri Lanka

Ben Stokes’ participation in England’s upcoming Test series against Sri Lanka is in jeopardy after he suffered an injury while playing for Northern Superchargers in the Hundred on Sunday.

During a chase against Manchester Originals, Stokes attempted a quick single but pulled up injured after completing the run. He was assisted off the field by medical staff, clutching the back of his left leg near the hamstring and knee.

The injury occurred after Stokes was struck in the gut by a hard-length ball from Tom Aspinwall. He initially appeared winded but attempted to run a single before collapsing in pain.

The injury raises concerns about Stokes’ availability for the first Test, which begins on August 21 in Manchester. He has previously managed a chronic left-knee injury but returned to bowling earlier this year after undergoing surgery.

England are already without Zak Crawley for the Sri Lanka series due to a fractured finger. Dan Lawrence is expected to open the batting in his absence, with Jordan Cox called up as batting cover. Ollie Pope, the vice-captain, would lead England for the first time in international cricket if Stokes is ruled out.

The extent of Stokes’ injury is still being assessed, but it is a significant blow to England’s hopes of a strong start to the series. The all-rounder is a key figure in the team, both as a batsman and a bowler.

Bangladesh Seeks UN Help to Keep Women's T20 World Cup Hosting Rights

Bangladesh Seeks UN Help to Keep Women’s T20 World Cup Hosting Rights

The Bangladesh Cricket Board (BCB) is facing an uphill battle to retain hosting rights for the upcoming Women’s T20 World Cup amidst travel restrictions imposed by several countries. The BCB is seeking the United Nations’ intervention to address the issue.

Asif Mahmud, the youth and sports adviser of Bangladesh’s interim government, confirmed that the BCB will engage with the UN to discuss the travel restrictions. The governments of Australia, the United Kingdom, India, and New Zealand have either advised against travel to Bangladesh or imposed outright bans.

The BCB considers these travel restrictions as a major obstacle to hosting the tournament. Mahmud stated, “There are travel restrictions for some countries and so we will speak with the United Nations. There are some issues regarding security and infrastructure and we will talk in this regard with professor Yunus [chief adviser to Bangladesh’s interim government].”

The uncertainty surrounding the World Cup coincides with a crisis within the BCB. President Nazmul Hassan has been missing since the fall of the Awami League government, and several directors with political connections are also untraceable.

Mahmud has discussed the possibility of an interim body to run the BCB, but he emphasized the need for autonomy in the board’s decision-making. “The BCB is an autonomous federation and we cannot give them any decision,” he said.

Former BCB general secretary Syed Ashraful Huq has called for reforms within the board. He criticized the lack of progress in Bangladesh’s cricket performance despite gaining Full Membership in 2000. “BCB doesn’t own a cricket ground, for instance. We lack in planning, and even when we have a plan, nobody has delivered on it,” Huq said.

The BCB is under pressure to address the travel restrictions and the internal crisis to ensure the successful hosting of the Women’s T20 World Cup. The tournament is scheduled to take place from February 10 to 26, 2023.

IOA Clarifies Weight Management Responsibility for Athletes in Paris Olympics

IOA Clarifies Weight Management Responsibility for Athletes in Paris Olympics

The Indian Olympic Association (IOA) has clarified that the responsibility for weight management of athletes in sports like wrestling, weightlifting, boxing, and judo lies with the individual athletes and their coaches, not with the IOA-appointed Chief Medical Officer Dr. Dinshaw Pardiwala and his team.

IOA President Dr. PT Usha emphasized that each Indian athlete participating in the Paris 2024 Olympic Games in these sports has their own support team that has been working with them for years. These teams include nutritionists and physiotherapists who are responsible for monitoring and managing the athletes’ weight.

The IOA appointed a medical team a few months ago primarily to assist in the recovery and injury management of athletes during and after competitions. This team was also intended to support athletes who did not have their own team of medical professionals.

Dr. Usha condemned the hate directed at the IOA medical team, particularly Dr. Pardiwala, and urged those criticizing the team to consider all the facts before making judgments.

This clarification comes after Indian wrestler Vinesh Phogat was disqualified from the women’s 50 kg final at the Paris Olympics for exceeding the weight limit. Phogat has appealed to the Court of Arbitration for Sport (CAS) to award her the silver medal.

CAS has extended the deadline for delivering its verdict on Phogat’s appeal to Tuesday, August 13. The ad hoc division of CAS has granted the sole arbitrator, Dr. Annabelle Bennett, additional time to consider the case.

Reacting to the extension, Vinesh Phogat’s uncle, Mahavir Phogat, expressed his patience and willingness to accept the decision whenever it is announced.

Following her disqualification, Phogat announced her retirement from wrestling. She had achieved significant success in her career, including two World Championships bronze medals, an Asian Games gold medal, and three Commonwealth Games gold medals.

Lancashire Breaks Losing Streak with Four-Run Victory over Northamptonshire

Lancashire Breaks Losing Streak with Four-Run Victory over Northamptonshire

Lancashire’s George Balderson played a pivotal role in securing their first victory in this year’s Metro Bank One Day Cup, breaking a six-game losing streak. His spirited 53 off 67 balls, along with Josh Boyden’s unbeaten 44 off 35 balls, propelled Lancashire to a respectable total of 240 for 9.

Northamptonshire’s bowlers, led by Ben Sanderson and Saif Zaib, had initially put Lancashire under pressure, reducing them to 152 for 7. However, Balderson and Boyden’s crucial partnership of 65 revived Lancashire’s innings. Balderson struck five fours and a six, while Boyden remained composed, ensuring a competitive total.

In the run chase, Justin Broad emerged as Northamptonshire’s top scorer, hitting a career-best 63. He shared a crucial 77-run partnership with skipper Lewis McManus, keeping Lancashire on their toes. Boyden, however, proved to be a thorn in Northamptonshire’s side, claiming two wickets, including McManus’s.

Despite a valiant effort from Gus Miller, who scored a gutsy 27, Northamptonshire fell just short of their target, losing by a narrow margin of four runs. Lancashire’s bowlers, particularly Boyden, held their nerve in the tense run chase, securing a much-needed victory.

Agassi and Davenport Celebrate Cincinnati Tennis Legacy, Unveil Scholarships

Agassi and Davenport Celebrate Cincinnati Tennis Legacy, Unveil Scholarships

Andre Agassi and Lindsay Davenport graced the Cincinnati Music Hall on Saturday, reminiscing about their illustrious careers and unveiling scholarships in their honor as part of the 125th anniversary celebration of tennis in Cincinnati.

The gala dinner transported guests back to 1899, the inaugural year of the Cincinnati tournament. Actors portrayed the era, while tributes honored champions from the Open Era and beyond.

Agassi and Davenport captivated the audience with their candid conversation moderated by Jon Wertheim. Their Hall of Fame journeys intertwined, from their world No. 1 rankings to their Olympic gold medals in 1996. In 2004, they triumphed together at the Cincinnati Open.

“Cincinnati was a tournament you always watched on TV,” said Davenport, who broke the women’s title drought in 1988. “I loved the facility and the history. It felt special to bring women’s tennis here.”

Since then, the Cincinnati Open has evolved into a prestigious 1000-level event, hosting tennis legends like Novak Djokovic, Roger Federer, and Serena Williams. A $260 million investment and a 25-year deal will transform the Lindner Family Tennis Center, making the tournament a two-week spectacle from 2025 onwards.

“The crowd turnout was always fantastic,” recalled Agassi, who overcame Andy Roddick and Lleyton Hewitt in thrilling three-setters in 2004. “The intensity and competition were palpable. I loved the atmosphere and the surface.”

Agassi and Davenport’s post-retirement paths have mirrored their playing careers. Agassi will lead Team World at the Laver Cup, while Davenport captains the U.S. Billie Jean King Cup team.

“I’m excited about the American players,” said Davenport. “This is their time to shine. We have a huge tournament here in the United States, and they appreciate the fan support.”

The evening culminated in the announcement of scholarships in Agassi and Davenport’s names. Four winners will receive $5,000 each annually to support after-school nutrition, math and literacy, and tennis instruction.

Durham Stuns Kent in Metro Bank Cup Thriller

Durham Stuns Kent in Metro Bank Cup Thriller

Durham pulled off a thrilling seven-run victory over Kent Spitfires in the Metro Bank Cup on Sunday, keeping their hopes of reaching the knockout stages alive.

After winning the toss and electing to bowl, Durham witnessed a superb century from Ben McKinney (115 off 116 balls) that propelled them to a competitive total of 307. McKinney’s knock was studded with three sixes and 13 fours, while Bas de Leede (47) provided valuable support.

Kent’s chase got off to a promising start as Harry Finch (104 off 91 balls) and Jack Leaning (81) stitched together a 183-run partnership for the third wicket. However, the Spitfires suffered a dramatic collapse, losing six wickets for 71 runs.

George Drissell emerged as the hero for Durham, claiming 4 for 38. His crucial wickets included Finch, Leaning, and Grant Stewart (3). Colin Ackermann (3-36) also played a key role in restricting Kent’s scoring.

In the final over, Kent needed 17 runs to win. Ackermann defended the target admirably, conceding only 10 runs and securing a memorable victory for Durham.

The result leaves Durham in contention for the knockout stages, while Kent’s hopes of progressing have been dashed.

Handscomb Century Rescues Leicestershire, Keeps Knockout Hopes Alive

Handscomb Century Rescues Leicestershire, Keeps Knockout Hopes Alive

Leicestershire’s hopes of reaching the knockout stages of the Metro Bank One-Day Cup received a major boost as they defeated previously unbeaten Glamorgan by nine runs. Australian international Peter Handscomb played a pivotal role in the victory, rescuing Leicestershire from a precarious position with a superb century.

Chasing a target of 272, Glamorgan’s pursuit was hampered by the loss of both openers in the first nine overs. Colin Ingram’s top score of 68 kept the Welsh side in contention, but a career-best 61 from Dan Douthwaite ultimately proved insufficient.

Leicestershire’s innings had also been far from straightforward. After losing five wickets for just 59 runs, Handscomb and Liam Trevaskis combined for a crucial 103-run partnership. Handscomb’s 103 off 91 balls proved to be the backbone of Leicestershire’s total, while Trevaskis contributed 47 with the bat and 4 for 54 with the ball.

Glamorgan’s hopes were dealt a significant blow when Ingram was dismissed by Trevaskis with 75 runs still required. Douthwaite’s valiant effort kept the contest alive, but Roman Walker’s three wickets in quick succession sealed the victory for Leicestershire.

The result leaves Leicestershire on 10 points, one behind Glamorgan and Warwickshire. Both Glamorgan and Warwickshire have already secured quarter-final berths, while Leicestershire’s fate will be determined in their final group match against Gloucestershire.

USA Wins Fifth Straight Olympic Basketball Gold, Sparks Social Media Debate

USA Wins Fifth Straight Olympic Basketball Gold, Sparks Social Media Debate

The United States men’s basketball team extended their Olympic dominance on Saturday, securing their fifth consecutive gold medal with a 98-87 victory over France. This triumph marked the 17th Olympic gold for the United States in basketball.

However, the team’s post-victory celebration on social media sparked controversy. The official USA Basketball Twitter account posted, “Are we the World Champs now?” This message was perceived as a response to sprinter Noah Lyles, who had previously questioned the use of the “world champion” title by NBA winners.

Lyles, who earned the title of “fastest man on the planet” at the Paris Olympics by winning the 100m gold medal, believes that NBA champions should not refer to themselves as “world champions.” After the USA basketball team’s Olympic victory, they shared a post that seemed to address Lyles’ comments.

The post drew criticism on social media, with many users pointing out that the FIBA World Cup, not the Olympics, determines the true world champions in basketball. Germany currently holds the FIBA World Cup title.

Lyles had previously expressed his frustration with the NBA’s use of the “world champion” label. “You know the thing that hurts me the most is that I have to watch the NBA Finals and they have ‘world champion’ on their head,” he said. “World champion of what? The United States? Don’t get me wrong, I love the U.S. at times, but that ain’t the world…We are the world.”

Despite the controversy, the USA basketball team’s victory in Paris was a testament to their continued dominance in the sport. Led by NBA stars like LeBron James and Stephen Curry, the team overcame a strong challenge from France, who were led by NBA Rookie of the Year Victor Wembanyama.

Curry played a pivotal role in the victory, scoring 24 points and hitting eight three-pointers, including a remarkable shot over Wembanyama. The United States’ relentless effort and superior talent ultimately proved too much for France, securing their fifth consecutive Olympic gold medal.

Australian Breakdancer Defends Unconventional Olympic Routine Amid Criticism

Australian Breakdancer Defends Unconventional Olympic Routine Amid Criticism

Australian breakdancer Rachael “Raygun” Gunn has sparked controversy at the Paris Olympics with her unconventional routine, drawing both criticism and support. Gunn’s performance, which featured unique moves including one likened to a kangaroo hopping, resulted in her losing all three of her match-ups against rival dancers.

Despite the unfavorable comparisons and social media memes, Gunn has remained defiant, defending her artistic expression. “I was always going to be the underdog going in,” she told Australia’s Nine Network. “I was never going to beat these B-Girls at what they do, so I did what I do best and I went out and I showed myself, my creativity, my style, a little bit of Australian character so that I could try and make my mark on this world stage.”

Gunn’s decision to wear her green-and-gold team uniform also drew criticism from some who felt it was out of step with the urban streetwear favored by other breakdancers. However, Gunn defended her choice, stating that it was a “matter of pride” for her to represent Australia.

One reporter and commentator in The Australian newspaper, Will Swanton, urged people to “lay off” Gunn, praising her cheerful and patriotic demeanor. “She was cheerful, proud and actually cared enough about her country to wear the green and gold,” he wrote.

Gunn’s performance has sparked a debate about the nature of breakdancing as a sport and the importance of originality and self-expression. Gunn, who holds a PhD in breakdancing and dance culture, emphasized that her moves were original and that she was proud to showcase her unique style.

Despite the criticism, Gunn’s performance has also garnered support from those who appreciate her individuality and willingness to challenge conventions. On her Instagram account, Gunn posted: “Don’t be afraid to be different, go out there and represent yourself, you never where that’s gonna take you.”

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