Snoop Dogg and Cookie Monster Surprise Martha Stewart at Paris Olympics

Snoop Dogg and Cookie Monster Surprise Martha Stewart at Paris Olympics

Martha Stewart’s 83rd birthday celebration at the 2024 Paris Olympic Games took an unexpected turn when she was surprised by two unlikely guests: Snoop Dogg and Cookie Monster. The pair hijacked Martha’s interview with Hollywood Access, bringing with them a whimsical cone-shaped cake made of multi-coloured macarons.

“Oh, Cookie Monster, you’re so sweet,” Martha exclaimed, picking out a macaron for herself. The trio then proceeded to groove to Snoop’s hit song “Drop It Like It’s Hot.”

The friendship between Snoop and Martha dates back to 2008, when Snoop joined the chef on her iconic The Martha Stewart Show to make mashed potatoes. Since then, they have collaborated on numerous projects, including the 2015 Comedy Central Roast of Justin Bieber and the celebrity cooking show Martha & Snoop’s Potluck Dinner Party.

In a humorous NBC video, Martha rated Snoop’s Olympic outfits, from his gold suit to his Ralph Lauren jacket. Snoop has expressed his admiration for Martha, calling her his “homegirl” and acknowledging their “special bond.”

Snoop and Cookie Monster are part of the NBC team covering the 2024 Paris Olympic Games, along with guest Martha. “It’s been so much fun in Paris. This has been the most exciting Olympics,” Martha said about the Games.

The surprise visit by Snoop and Cookie Monster added a touch of whimsy and fun to Martha’s birthday celebration, showcasing the enduring friendship between the unlikely duo.

India to Continue Using Top-Order Batsmen as Part-Time Bowlers

India to Continue Using Top-Order Batsmen as Part-Time Bowlers

India’s bowling coach, Sairaj Bahutule, has revealed the team’s strategy of utilizing top-order batsmen as part-time bowlers. This approach, he believes, can provide a “surprise element” against opponents.

In the first ODI against Sri Lanka, opener Shubman Gill was given the opportunity to bowl, despite conceding 14 runs in his solitary over. Bahutule emphasized that this strategy will continue to be implemented in the future.

“Our batters are good bowlers as well,” Bahutule said. “They have the skills, even though their primary focus is batting.”

Bahutule cited the examples of Suryakumar Yadav and Rinku Singh, who bowled in the T20I series against Sri Lanka. He believes that having multiple bowling options, including part-time bowlers, is crucial in the shortest format of the game.

“It’s going to be an all-rounder’s game in the coming days,” Bahutule said. “If one or two top-order batsmen can bowl, it will definitely help the team, depending on the pitch conditions and situations.”

Bahutule also acknowledged that Sri Lanka’s spinners, Wanindu Hasaranga and Charith Asalanka, used the pitch conditions to their advantage. He admitted that India could have capitalized on the strong start given by Rohit Sharma, who scored a superb 58 off 47 balls.

“We did bat well in patches, but we could have had few partnerships that would have taken us home with less wickets going,” Bahutule said.

Despite the tie, Bahutule praised India’s bowling performance and expressed confidence in the team’s ability to improve in the upcoming matches.

Kumar Sangakkara Open to England Limited-Overs Coaching Role

Kumar Sangakkara Open to England Limited-Overs Coaching Role

Kumar Sangakkara, the legendary Sri Lankan cricketer, has expressed interest in the vacant England limited-overs coaching position but has not yet received a formal approach. The England and Wales Cricket Board (ECB) is seeking a new white-ball coach after sacking Matthew Mott following disappointing performances in the 2023 50-over World Cup and T20 World Cup.

Sangakkara, who has worked with England captain Jos Buttler at the Rajasthan Royals in the Indian Premier League, has been linked with the role. However, the 46-year-old has downplayed the speculation, stating that he has not been contacted by the ECB.

“I know my name has been mentioned, but there has not been any approach as such,” Sangakkara told PA news agency. “The England white-ball job is an exciting prospect for anyone, but there are so many good candidates out there.”

Sangakkara praised Mott’s tenure as England coach and expressed admiration for the leadership of Rob Key, the managing director of England men’s cricket. He believes that England is on the right track and that the decision-making has been spot on.

“I think the decision making in the England camp has been spot on,” Sangakkara said. “I really love the leadership that Rob Key has provided…I think he has been a really smart, practical man, very commonsensical in terms of how he makes decisions and very forward-thinking in how he has set the vision for England cricket.”

Sangakkara, who is currently a member of Sky Sports’ commentary team for The Hundred, expressed contentment with his current role at the Rajasthan Royals. He also praised Sri Lankan cricketer Chamari Athapaththu for her inspiring leadership and her recent success in guiding the Sri Lanka women’s team to Asia Cup glory.

Joginder Sharma Reunites with Dhoni, Recalling 2007 T20 World Cup Heroics

Joginder Sharma Reunites with Dhoni, Recalling 2007 T20 World Cup Heroics

Joginder Sharma, the unsung hero of India’s triumphant 2007 T20 World Cup campaign, recently reunited with the legendary former India captain Mahendra Singh Dhoni, rekindling memories of one of the most iconic moments in Indian cricket history.

In that unforgettable match, Dhoni entrusted Joginder with the daunting task of bowling the final over against a formidable Misbah-ul-Haq. The decision raised eyebrows, considering the high stakes and immense pressure. Pakistan required a mere 13 runs to secure victory with one wicket remaining.

Despite the intense scrutiny, Joginder displayed remarkable composure and precision. The over commenced with a wide, heightening the tension. However, he quickly regained his composure with a dot ball. Misbah then launched a six off the second delivery, reducing the equation to six runs off four balls.

Undeterred, Joginder remained focused. Misbah attempted a risky scoop shot over fine leg on the next delivery, but Sreesanth safely collected the ball. This dismissal sparked jubilant celebrations as India clinched the inaugural T20 World Cup by a narrow margin of five runs.

Joginder’s calm demeanor and precise execution under immense pressure transformed him into an overnight hero. “I thought I should give the ball to someone who really wants to do well in international cricket. Jogi did a really good job,” Dhoni remarked after the match.

“It’s one of the things I will cherish for the rest of my life. I’d like to congratulate the boys and thank them for the response they have given me. No one expected us to win, and the way we played, we deserve a big celebration,” the former India skipper added.

Dhoni’s astute leadership extended beyond the 2007 triumph. He guided India to two more ICC titles: the ODI World Cup in 2011 and the Champions Trophy in 2013. Additionally, India claimed the Test mace under his captaincy.

Joginder’s reunion with Dhoni serves as a poignant reminder of the camaraderie and resilience that characterized India’s historic T20 World Cup victory. It is a testament to the enduring legacy of that unforgettable moment and the enduring bond between two cricket legends.

US Shatters World Record in Mixed 4x400m Relay at Paris Olympics

US Shatters World Record in Mixed 4x400m Relay at Paris Olympics

The United States shattered the world record in the heats of the mixed 4x400m relay at the Paris Olympics on Friday, setting a blistering pace that sent shockwaves through the competition. The quartet of Vernon Norwood, Shamier Little, Bryce Deadmon, and Kaylyn Brown clocked an astonishing 3min 07.41sec, obliterating the previous best of 3:08.80 set by the US at the World Championships in Budapest last year.

Vernon Norwood, the lead-off runner, emphasized the importance of executing flawless hand-offs. “We wanted to come out here and execute good hand-offs,” Norwood said. “We set the tone for the rest of the United States with that world record.”

Shamier Little, the second leg, echoed Norwood’s sentiments. “We have a really good group of guys and gals,” Little said. “I’m just really excited, first of all for our record, and that’s only in the prelim, so it’s only up from here.”

Bryce Deadmon, the third leg, described the electrifying atmosphere at the Stade de France, where a sell-out crowd of 69,000 cheered them on. “It was completely different compared to Tokyo in 2021 just for the simple fact that we have fans out here,” Deadmon said. “I was running down the curve and I was like, ‘Ah damn, it’s kind of loud in here.’ It’s a great experience. I’m excited to see what the rest of the Games are going to bring.”

Kaylyn Brown, the anchor leg, brought the baton home in record-breaking fashion. “It was an amazing feeling,” Brown said. “I knew I had to give it my all for the team, and I’m so proud of what we accomplished today.”

The US team’s world record performance not only set a new benchmark but also inspired other nations to push their limits. France, Belgium, and Jamaica all set national records in the same heat, finishing in second, third, and fourth places, respectively. Britain won the second heat in another national record time of 3:10.61, ahead of the Netherlands and Italy.

The mixed relay, which made its Olympic debut in Tokyo, has quickly become a fan favorite. Poland won gold in Tokyo, followed by the Dominican Republic and the US. The final of the mixed 4x400m relay at the Paris Olympics is scheduled for Saturday at 1855 GMT.

Neutral Athlete Ivan Litvinovich Wins Gold at Paris Olympics

Neutral Athlete Ivan Litvinovich Wins Gold at Paris Olympics

Ivan Litvinovich, a Belarusian athlete competing as a neutral at the Paris Olympics, has become the first to win gold in this capacity. However, his victory will not be reflected in the official medals table.

Litvinovich, 23, successfully defended his title in the men’s trampoline final, with China’s Wang Zisai and Yan Langyu claiming silver and bronze respectively. The Belarusian’s triumph marks a significant moment for neutral athletes, who are gradually returning to international competitions under strict conditions.

Following Russia’s invasion of Ukraine in February 2022, athletes from Russia and Belarus were banned from world sport. The International Olympic Committee (IOC) has since overseen their return under a neutral banner, subject to rigorous screening.

To qualify as “neutral individual athletes,” competitors must demonstrate exceptional results and undergo a double check by international sports federations and the IOC. They must also prove that they do not actively support the war in Ukraine or have any ties to their countries’ armies.

Neutral athletes are prohibited from participating in the opening ceremony or competing under their national flags. Additionally, their achievements on the podium are not recognized in the medals table.

Only 15 Russians and 17 Belarusians accepted the invitation to compete as neutrals at the Paris Games. Instead of hearing the Belarusian national anthem after receiving his medal, Litvinovich listened to a generic tune commissioned by the IOC.

“It’s different,” Litvinovich said. “Our anthem is better, and I hope we’ll be able to participate in competitions listening to it.”

Litvinovich declined to comment on his presence at the Games, particularly in relation to his previous expressions of support for Belarus.

Earlier in the day, Viyaleta Bardzilouskaya from Belarus won the first medal of any kind by a neutral athlete at the Paris Games, taking silver in the women’s trampoline.

Kobe Bryant's Locker Fetches Record-Breaking $2.9 Million at Auction

Kobe Bryant’s Locker Fetches Record-Breaking $2.9 Million at Auction

Kobe Bryant’s Locker Sells for Record-Breaking $2.9 Million at Sotheby’s Auction

The legendary locker used by Kobe Bryant throughout his illustrious NBA career has been sold for an astonishing $2.9 million at a Sotheby’s auction in New York. The price tag for the Staples Center locker, where Bryant spent countless hours preparing for games, nearly doubled the estimated $1.5 million it was expected to fetch.

Bryant, an 18-time NBA All-Star and five-time NBA champion, tragically lost his life in a helicopter crash in 2020 at the age of 41. He spent his entire 20-year NBA career with the Los Angeles Lakers, becoming one of the most iconic and beloved players in the league’s history.

The locker’s remarkable journey began in 2018 when a maintenance worker at the Staples Center saved it from being discarded during renovations. The piece was later acquired by an American collector who recognized its historical significance.

“Today’s price highlights not only Kobe’s enduring legacy but also the exceptional nature of this unique item,” said Brahm Wachter, Sotheby’s head of modern collectables, commenting on the record-breaking sale price achieved after 19 bids.

The Sotheby’s auction also featured a wide range of memorabilia from other sporting icons, including Michael Jordan, Reggie Jackson, Rafael Nadal, and Stephen Curry. The sale showcased the enduring appeal of sports memorabilia and the reverence with which fans hold their heroes.

Bryant’s locker is a tangible reminder of his extraordinary career and the impact he had on the game of basketball. Its sale for such a staggering amount underscores his enduring legacy as one of the greatest players to ever grace the court.

Leon Marchand Makes History with Four Golds in Paris

Leon Marchand Makes History with Four Golds in Paris

Leon Marchand’s “perfect week” culminated in a historic triumph at the Paris Olympics, as he became the first male swimmer since Michael Phelps in 2008 to win four individual gold medals at a single Games. The 22-year-old Frenchman capped off his remarkable performance with an emphatic victory in the 200m individual medley, setting an Olympic record of 1min 54.06sec.

Marchand’s dominance was evident throughout the race. After trailing China’s Wang Shun in the opening butterfly leg, he surged ahead during the backstroke and extended his lead with a powerful breaststroke 50. Despite a valiant effort from Britain’s Duncan Scott, Marchand held on to his advantage in the final freestyle leg, eliciting thunderous applause from the ecstatic home crowd.

The victory marked Marchand’s fourth gold medal of the Games, following his triumphs in the 200m butterfly, 200m breaststroke, and 400m individual medley. His success has been attributed to his meticulous training under Bob Bowman, Phelps’ former coach.

“It was just a complete success in terms of the way I see things,” Bowman said. “He’s just 100% successful. I’m so very proud of him. It takes a lot to be perfect.”

Marchand’s impact on the sport has been profound, according to Scott. “He’s becoming a sort of global superstar now and he kind of runs France now,” Scott said. “It’s amazing, and the kid, he’s loved it. You can see he’s doing it with a smile on his face and the crowd’s giving him so much energy, it’s been amazing to witness it.”

Despite his remarkable achievements, Marchand remains focused on the future. “It’s not over for me. It’s only the beginning,” he said. “I’m really excited…. my next goal is LA.”

Wellalage's All-Round Brilliance Ties ODI Series Opener

Wellalage’s All-Round Brilliance Ties ODI Series Opener

Dunith Wellalage, a rising star in Sri Lankan cricket, showcased his exceptional all-round abilities in the first ODI against India at Khettarama. Batting at number seven, the 21-year-old played a crucial innings of 67 not out off 65 deliveries, guiding Sri Lanka to a respectable total of 230 for 8.

Wellalage’s innings was a beacon of composure on a challenging pitch where no other batter looked entirely settled. He displayed a wide range of shots, including powerful boundaries, and drew inspiration from his teammate Pathum Nissanka, who has been in impressive form throughout the tour.

“I was watching Pathum Nissanka bat quite a lot,” Wellalage said. “I put his batting in my mind as I came up with a plan. If you take the pitch, it was one that supported spin bowling. I tried to put as much pressure on the bowler and build partnerships.”

With the ball, Wellalage proved equally effective, claiming two crucial wickets for 39 runs in nine overs. He dismissed India’s top scorer, Rohit Sharma, with a well-flighted delivery that beat the batsman in flight and struck him in front of the stumps.

Wellalage’s dismissal of Shubman Gill was equally impressive, as he deceived the opener with another flighted delivery that Gill top-edged to the keeper.

“We knew that the wicket was spinning,” Wellalage explained. “So Charith Asalanka had told me that I would be bowling in the powerplay. I had good support from the wicket too.”

“With Rohit at the time, I was trying just to bowl wicket-to-wicket, because I knew how much assistance there was from the pitch.”

Wellalage’s contributions with both bat and ball played a pivotal role in Sri Lanka’s ability to tie the match. His performance is a testament to his growing maturity and versatility as a cricketer.

Simone Biles Reclaims Olympic All-Around Gymnastics Title in Paris

Simone Biles Reclaims Olympic All-Around Gymnastics Title in Paris

American gymnastics legend Simone Biles has once again etched her name in the annals of Olympic history, reclaiming the all-around title at the ongoing Paris Olympics on Friday. The 27-year-old, who previously won gold in the same event at the Rio Olympics in 2016, became the first woman to regain the Olympic all-around title.

Biles’ triumph was a testament to her unwavering determination and resilience. After withdrawing from most of her events in Tokyo three years ago due to a debilitating condition known as the “twisties,” she returned to the Olympic stage with a renewed sense of purpose.

Her performance in Paris was nothing short of spectacular. She opened with an electrifying floor routine to Taylor Swift’s hit song “Ready for It?,” captivating the crowd at the Bercy Arena. Her flawless execution and gravity-defying moves earned her a standing ovation.

Biles’ dominance continued throughout the competition. She displayed her exceptional skills on the vault, uneven bars, and balance beam, consistently scoring high marks. Her compatriot, Sunisa Lee, who won the title in Tokyo after Biles’ withdrawal, could only claim a bronze medal this time around. Brazil’s Rebeca Andrade took home the silver.

This victory marks Biles’ second gold medal of the Paris Games and her sixth Olympic gold overall. She has already led the United States to women’s team gold this week, solidifying her status as the most decorated athlete in her sport.

Biles’ success is not only a testament to her athletic prowess but also to her mental fortitude. She has openly discussed her struggles with mental health and has become an advocate for athletes’ well-being.

“Three years ago, I never thought I’d step on a gymnastics court again,” Biles said after her victory. “But I worked hard, mentally and physically, even saw my therapist this morning, just making sure I’m mentally well.”

Biles’ triumph is an inspiration to athletes and fans alike. It demonstrates that even after setbacks and challenges, it is possible to overcome adversity and achieve greatness.

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