India vs Sri Lanka to Clash in Women's Asia Cup Final

India vs Sri Lanka to Clash in Women’s Asia Cup Final

India vs Sri Lanka: Women’s Asia Cup Final Set for Sunday Showdown

The stage is set for an enthralling final in the Women’s Asia Cup 2024 as India and Sri Lanka prepare to battle it out for the coveted title on Sunday, July 28. Both teams have remained undefeated throughout the tournament, showcasing their dominance and determination.

India, led by the experienced Harmanpreet Kaur, has been in imperious form. They cruised to a comprehensive 10-wicket victory over Bangladesh in the semi-finals, with Smriti Mandhana and Shafali Verma leading the charge with blistering knocks. The team is eyeing its eighth Women’s Asia Cup title, a testament to their consistent excellence.

Sri Lanka, on the other hand, has emerged as a formidable force in this tournament. They edged past Pakistan in a thrilling semi-final, with Chamari Athapaththu and Nilakshi de Silva playing pivotal roles. The hosts will be buoyed by the home crowd support and will be eager to create history by winning their first-ever Women’s Asia Cup title.

The final match will be played at the Rangiri Dambulla International Stadium in Dambulla, Sri Lanka. The action will commence at 3:00 PM IST and will be telecast live on the Star Sports Network. Fans can also catch the live streaming of the match on Hotstar.

Both India and Sri Lanka have a wealth of experience and talent in their ranks. India will rely on the batting prowess of Mandhana, Verma, and Kaur, while Sri Lanka will look to Athapaththu, de Silva, and Harshitha Madavi to deliver the goods.

The final promises to be a captivating contest between two evenly matched teams. India will be aiming to extend its dominance in the tournament, while Sri Lanka will be determined to upset the favorites and etch their name in the history books.

USA Cricket Appoints Johnathan Atkeison as CEO to Avoid ICC Disqualification

USA Cricket Appoints Johnathan Atkeison as CEO to Avoid ICC Disqualification

USA Cricket (USAC) has appointed Johnathan Atkeison as its new CEO, a move that fulfills one of two critical requirements set by the International Cricket Council (ICC) to avoid disqualification as an ICC Associate member.

The ICC had earlier placed USAC “on notice” for not having a fit-for-purpose governance and administrative system. The other requirement for USAC to avoid disqualification is to have governance norms set by the US Olympic and Paralympic Committee (USOPC), which is necessary for it to earn the National Governing Body (NGB) status.

Atkeison, who most recently served as the Chief Operating Officer of USA Rugby, has over 15 years of national governing body experience. He is credited for leading USA Rugby through a financial restructuring in 2020. His tenure as USAC CEO will start from August 1.

“I’m honored to join the team at USA Cricket. It’s an incredible time for the sport here in the United States with the historic performance of the men’s national team in the recent T20 World Cup, the completion of the second season of Major League Cricket, and the first opportunity to showcase cricket in the Olympics here on home soil during the LA28 games,” Atkeison said in a media release.

“Our goal is to build a world-class organization to capitalize on that momentum, and firmly establish cricket’s position in the American sporting landscape. The passion the cricket community has for the sport is amazing, and the enthusiasm is infectious. I can’t wait to get started.”

Ahead of its AGM, the ICC circulated a note titled “Associate Member Membership Update” to all its members, wherein it noticed that USOPC had “expressed serious concerns” over the governance of USAC. It was the second time in the year that the ICC put USAC on notice and gave them 12 months to make rectifications.

“The board agreed that a normalisation committee comprising of board and management representatives will be set up to oversee and monitor USA Cricket’s compliance roadmap and the ICC board will reserve its right to suspend or expel the member for continued non-compliance,” the ICC had said in a statement after the AGM earlier this week.

Indian Athletes Disappointed with Paris Games Uniforms

Indian Athletes Disappointed with Paris Games Uniforms

Indian Athletes Face Uniform Disappointment at Paris Games

As the Indian contingent embarks on its quest for medals at the Paris Games, a disheartening issue has emerged off the field. Several athletes have expressed disappointment over the quality of dresses and attires provided for them.

Former badminton star Jwala Gutta took to social media to voice her concerns, criticizing the designer responsible for the uniforms. She highlighted the poor fit of the blouses, the lack of pre-draped sarees for those unfamiliar with wearing them, and the unflattering color and print.

“I had huge expectations from the designer, but only met disappointment,” Gutta wrote. “It was a work of absolute mediocrity and looked shabby.”

The uniforms, designed by Tarun Tahiliani, were intended to reflect a modern Indian ethos with ikat-inspired prints and Banarasi brocade. However, the athletes and fans alike have expressed dissatisfaction with the final product.

The women’s sarees, made of viscose crepe, feature a high-neck blouse and digital printed saffron and green-hued panels. The men’s kurta-bundi set is crafted from lightweight moss cotton with similar tricolour detailing.

Despite the designer’s efforts to incorporate Indian cultural elements, the uniforms have failed to impress. The poor fit and unflattering design have raised concerns about the comfort and confidence of the athletes.

This issue highlights the importance of prioritizing the needs of athletes in all aspects of their preparation. While aesthetics are important, the functionality and comfort of uniforms should be paramount.

The Indian contingent has already begun its medal hunt, with several athletes advancing to medal rounds. However, the uniform controversy has cast a shadow over their efforts. It is crucial that the authorities address these concerns promptly to ensure that the athletes can focus on their performances without distractions.

Suryakumar Yadav: A Bowlers' Captain Empowering India's T20I Team

Suryakumar Yadav: A Bowlers’ Captain Empowering India’s T20I Team

India’s newly appointed T20I skipper, Suryakumar Yadav, has earned praise from all-rounder Axar Patel for his leadership style. Patel described Yadav as a “bowlers’ captain” who empowers his bowlers to execute their plans with confidence.

In the recently concluded first T20I against Sri Lanka, Patel witnessed firsthand Yadav’s approach. “He gives you free hand (in a way) that you decide first,” Patel said. “Whenever you get hit, he comes and says that it was a good ball. He keeps giving you inputs.”

Patel emphasized the importance of this support for bowlers, as it instills confidence and allows them to take risks. “As a bowler, you get confidence from that if the captain is backing you and telling you that you can do this,” he said.

Patel also highlighted the team’s focus on maximizing its batting combinations. In the first T20I, India experimented with a batting order that featured a balanced mix of left-handed and right-handed batters. This strategy aims to keep the opposition bowlers guessing and maintain a consistent scoring rate.

“Our team has four lefties and four righties,” Patel explained. “If there is a left-right combination (in the middle), it becomes very hard for the bowlers to maintain the line and lengths consistently.”

Patel also touched upon the team’s new coaching staff, led by head coach Gautam Gambhir. While acknowledging that there will be some changes in approach, Patel emphasized that the team’s core values will remain intact.

“When we were talking in the team meeting, they also said the same thing that the coach and captain keep changing but the team remains the same and the 11 or 15 players who stay, they have to do it,” Patel said. “They have told us that we will play the way we have been playing.”

India-Sri Lanka Series Crucial for Young Players, Says Jayasuriya

India-Sri Lanka Series Crucial for Young Players, Says Jayasuriya

Sanath Jayasuriya: India-Sri Lanka Series Holds ‘Massive Importance’ for Young Players

With the ongoing Olympic Games capturing the attention of sports enthusiasts, the India-Sri Lanka limited-overs series has received relatively less fanfare. However, Sri Lanka’s interim head coach, Sanath Jayasuriya, believes the series carries significant value for the young players involved.

In an exclusive interview with The Times of India, Jayasuriya expressed his disappointment with Sri Lanka’s performances in the 2023 ODI World Cup and the recent T20 World Cup. He attributed the team’s struggles to a lack of consistency in batting, particularly in converting starts into substantial scores.

“The players know that. Batters need to fire and fire big to win a match,” Jayasuriya emphasized. “We have a good bowling side which can win us games.”

When asked about India’s rising star, left-handed top-order batsman Yashasvi Jaiswal, Jayasuriya praised his talent and dedication. “He has the passion to do well, and to do that he has been working very hard,” Jayasuriya said. “He has made sacrifices and is a dedicated kid, that’s why he is performing.”

Jayasuriya, who was a pioneer in aggressive batting at the top of the order, shared his insights on countering a bowler like Jasprit Bumrah. “He (Bumrah) is unique. We need to respect him and his skills,” Jayasuriya said. “On his day, you’ll need to respect him, but then there are days when he is not up to the mark, it’s on those days you need to capitalize.”

Jayasuriya also discussed the importance of preserving the uniqueness of Sri Lankan bowlers. “We always tell the bowlers to keep their natural way of bowling,” he said. “We don’t change much, but we make sure that they learn from their mistakes.”

Despite the challenges faced by Sri Lanka in recent tournaments, Jayasuriya remains optimistic about the future of the team. “Sri Lanka Cricket makes sure that we continue giving them confidence,” he said.

European Giants Clash in Pre-Season Friendlies: AC Milan, Arsenal Triumph

European Giants Clash in Pre-Season Friendlies: AC Milan, Arsenal Triumph

AC Milan and Arsenal Triumph in Pre-Season Friendlies

In a series of pre-season tune-ups, European football giants AC Milan and Arsenal emerged victorious in their respective matches against Manchester City and Manchester United.

AC Milan vs. Manchester City

At Yankee Stadium in New York, AC Milan overcame English Premier League champions Manchester City 3-2. Lorenzo Colombo’s first-half brace gave Milan an early lead, but Erling Haaland’s goal for City brought them level. Marco Nasti’s 78th-minute strike proved to be the game-winner for the Italian side.

Arsenal vs. Manchester United

At SoFi Stadium in Los Angeles, Arsenal defeated Manchester United 2-1. Rasmus Hojlund opened the scoring for United, but Gabriel Jesus equalized for Arsenal. Gabriel Martinelli’s 81st-minute goal sealed the victory for the Gunners.

Celtic vs. Chelsea

In a dominant performance, Celtic thrashed Chelsea 4-1 at the University of Notre Dame in South Bend, Indiana. Kyogo Furuhashi and Matt O’Riley scored first-half goals, while Luis Palma and Michael Johnston added to the tally in the second half. Christopher Nkunku’s late penalty kick prevented a shutout for Chelsea.

Key Details:

* AC Milan’s victory over Manchester City was their second consecutive win in the United States.
* Arsenal’s triumph over Manchester United extended their unbeaten streak in pre-season to three matches.
* Celtic’s victory over Chelsea was their second consecutive win over a Premier League side in pre-season.
* Several European teams are using pre-season matches in the United States to prepare for the upcoming league campaigns.

IPL Mega Auction: BCCI and Franchises to Discuss Retentions, RTM, and 'Impact Player' Rule

IPL Mega Auction: BCCI and Franchises to Discuss Retentions, RTM, and ‘Impact Player’ Rule

The Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI) and the ten Indian Premier League (IPL) franchise owners will convene on July 31 to discuss crucial matters ahead of the mega auction for the 2025 season.

Retention and Right to Match (RTM) Options:

One of the primary topics on the agenda is the number of retentions teams can make and the RTM options available. These decisions will significantly impact the composition of squads for the upcoming season.

Future of the ‘Impact Player’ Rule:

The controversial ‘Impact Player’ rule, which allows teams to field 12 players by substituting one at any point during the match, will also be under scrutiny. Despite criticism from star players like Virat Kohli and Rohit Sharma, the rule is reportedly likely to remain in place for the upcoming season.

Stakeholder Perspectives:

According to a report in Sportstar, several stakeholders, including franchises and broadcasters, believe that the ‘Impact Player’ rule has enhanced the tournament’s intensity and competitiveness. However, players like Axar Patel have expressed concerns about its impact on their playing time.

Kohli and Rohit’s Objections:

Kohli and Sharma have voiced their disapproval of the rule, arguing that it undermines the traditional 11-player format and reduces opportunities for all-rounders. Kohli stated, “Entertainment is one aspect of the game, but there is no balance.”

Impact on All-Rounders:

The ‘Impact Player’ rule has been criticized for limiting the batting opportunities of all-rounders like Washington Sundar and Shivam Dube. Patel has blamed the rule for his reduced batting time in recent seasons.

Conclusion:

The BCCI and IPL franchise owners will engage in thorough discussions on these key issues to shape the future of the tournament. The decisions made at this meeting will have a significant impact on the strategy and performance of teams in the upcoming IPL season.

Nigerian Boxer Suspended from Paris Olympics for Doping Violation

Nigerian Boxer Suspended from Paris Olympics for Doping Violation

Nigerian boxer Cynthia Temitayo Ogunsemilore’s Olympic dreams have been shattered after she was suspended for violating anti-doping regulations. The International Testing Agency (ITA) announced on Saturday that a sample collected from Ogunsemilore on Thursday, a day before the Paris Olympics opening ceremony, tested positive for furosemide, a banned diuretic and masking agent.

Furosemide is prohibited by the World Anti-Doping Agency (WADA) as it can be used to reduce weight or mask the presence of other performance-enhancing substances. The 22-year-old Ogunsemilore, who was set to make her Olympic debut in the under 60 kg category on Monday, has been provisionally suspended until the resolution of the matter.

The ITA stated that Ogunsemilore has been informed of the case and has the right to challenge her suspension at the Court of Arbitration for Sport. She can also request an analysis of the B sample.

Ogunsemilore’s suspension marks the third doping case at the Paris Olympics. Iraqi judoka Sajjad Sehen tested positive for anabolic steroids, while Dominican volleyball player Lisvel Eve Mejia also tested positive for furosemide.

The ITA’s swift action in detecting and suspending athletes for doping violations sends a strong message that the use of performance-enhancing substances will not be tolerated at the Olympics. It also highlights the importance of maintaining a level playing field and protecting the integrity of the Games.

Ogunsemilore’s suspension is a major setback for the Nigerian boxing team and a reminder that the fight against doping in sports remains an ongoing battle. It is crucial for athletes to adhere to anti-doping regulations and prioritize fair play and ethical competition.

India Dominate Sri Lanka in T20I Opener Under New Leadership

India Dominate Sri Lanka in T20I Opener Under New Leadership

Team India’s new era under captain Suryakumar Yadav and head coach Gautam Gambhir commenced with a resounding 43-run victory over Sri Lanka in the opening T20I of the three-match series in Pallekele.

India, batting first, amassed a formidable 213 for 7, with Suryakumar Yadav leading the charge with a blistering 58 off 26 balls. Sri Lanka’s chase appeared promising, with opener Pathum Nissanka anchoring the innings with a brilliant 79 off 48 balls. However, Axar Patel’s crucial intervention in the 15th over, dismissing both Nissanka and Kusal Perera, swung the momentum in India’s favor.

Riyan Parag, playing only his fourth international match, made an immediate impact. He effected a run-out off his first delivery and then claimed his maiden international wicket three balls later, dismissing Kamindu Mendis. Parag’s impressive spell continued, as he returned in the final over to dismantle Sri Lanka’s lower order. He struck in consecutive balls, bundling out the hosts for 170 in 19.2 overs and finishing with remarkable figures of 3 for 5 in 1.2 overs.

India’s all-round performance, highlighted by Parag’s game-changing spell, showcased their potential and set a positive tone for the remaining matches. The victory gives India a 1-0 lead in the series and marks a promising start to the new era under Yadav and Gambhir.

Equestrian Scandal Sparks Animal Welfare Debate at Paris Olympics

Equestrian Scandal Sparks Animal Welfare Debate at Paris Olympics

The recent scandal involving three-time Olympic gold medalist Charlotte Dujardin has ignited a heated debate on animal welfare in equestrian sports. The video, which showed Dujardin repeatedly whipping a horse during training, has shocked riders and animal rights activists alike.

American rider Boyd Martin, a four-time Olympian, expressed his horror at the video. “Horse welfare is incredibly important,” he said. “What we saw was inexcusable.”

The incident has also highlighted the issue of “Rollkur,” a prohibited movement that involves hyper-flexing a horse’s neck. Carlos Parro, another rider, was formally warned by the Federation for Equestrian Sports (FEI) for potentially causing “unnecessary discomfort” to his horse Safira using this technique.

PETA’s senior vice president, Kathy Guillermo, expressed concern about the horse’s well-being and called for the rider’s disqualification.

Martin emphasized the importance of positive reinforcement in training horses. “To get the best out of an animal, you’ve got to train in a way that it wants to please you,” he said.

The British team has faced intense scrutiny since the Dujardin video emerged. Rider Tom McEwen acknowledged the shock it caused but expressed confidence in showcasing the sport’s positive aspects.

Former American star David O’Connor, who now holds leadership positions in the FEI and U.S. Equestrian Federation, condemned Dujardin’s actions as “completely unacceptable.” He emphasized the need for public scrutiny to expose unethical behavior.

O’Connor confirmed that any U.S. team rider found guilty of similar ill treatment would be removed from the team. He expressed optimism that increased scrutiny would improve horse welfare.

The FEI has implemented reforms to address these concerns, including ethical training methods and clearer directives on horse treatment. An equine welfare coordinator is also present at the Olympics for the first time.

The incident has also raised awareness of rider welfare. British rider Laura Collett nearly died in a fall in 2013, highlighting the risks associated with the sport.

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