Paris Olympics 2024: Medals Up for Grabs on Day 1 in Aquatics, Shooting, and More

Paris Olympics 2024: Medals Up for Grabs on Day 1 in Aquatics, Shooting, and More

The 2024 Paris Olympics kick off today with a thrilling lineup of events. Medals will be awarded in aquatics, cycling, fencing, judo, rugby sevens, shooting, and skateboarding.

Shooting:

India’s shooting contingent will be eager to make a mark after disappointing performances in the last two Olympics. Sandeep Singh and Elavenil Valarivan will compete in the 10m air rifle mixed team final, while Arjun Babuta and Ramita will also be in action. Sarabjot Singh and Arjun Singh Cheema will participate in the 10m air pistol men’s qualification.

Hockey:

India, the Tokyo Games bronze medallists, will begin their campaign against New Zealand. Harmanpreet Singh’s team will aim to give a fitting farewell to veteran goalkeeper PR Sreejesh, who is competing in his fourth Olympics.

Badminton:

Badminton, which has brought India three medals in recent editions, will also commence on Saturday. Lakshya Sen, the 2022 Commonwealth Games gold medallist, will face Kevin Cordon of Guatemala. Satwiksairaj Rankireddy and Chirag Shetty will take on French shuttlers Lucas Corvee and Ronan Labar. Ashwini Ponnappa and Tanisha Crasto will compete against former All England champions Kim So-yeong and Kong Hee-yong of South Korea.

Swimming:

An epic rivalry will resume in the women’s 400m freestyle, where Australian Ariarne Titmus and American Katie Ledecky will battle for gold. Canada’s Summer McIntosh and New Zealand’s Erika Fairweather are also contenders in this highly anticipated event.

Rugby 7s:

The men’s rugby sevens event will conclude with back-to-back Olympic champions Fiji facing Australia and South Africa taking on hosts France in the semi-finals. The bronze and gold medal matches will take place later on Saturday evening.

Other Events:

Cycling, fencing, and judo will also feature on the first day of the Olympics. Skateboarding will make its Olympic debut, with medals awarded in the men’s and women’s street events.

Holder's Heroics Give West Indies Respite in Edgbaston Test

Holder’s Heroics Give West Indies Respite in Edgbaston Test

Jason Holder’s all-round brilliance propelled the West Indies to a respectable total of 282 on the opening day of the third Test at Edgbaston, despite England’s early dominance.

After winning the toss and opting to bat on a favorable surface, the West Indies made a promising start, reaching 76-0. However, a batting collapse reminiscent of their struggles in the previous two Tests saw them lose five wickets around the lunch break.

Holder and Joshua Da Silva steadied the ship with a crucial sixth-wicket partnership of 109 runs, but the tail failed to contribute significantly. Gus Atkinson and Chris Woakes were the pick of the English bowlers, claiming four and three wickets respectively.

Holder’s crucial 59 runs, including a 92-ball fifty, gave the West Indies a glimmer of hope in the series they trail 2-0. His innings was complemented by Da Silva’s 49 and Brathwaite’s 61.

England’s shaky start in response saw them lose both openers in consecutive deliveries. Zak Crawley fell for eight, edging a loose drive to Holder at second slip, while Ben Duckett played on to Alzarri Joseph on the very next ball. Nightwatchman Mark Wood also departed for a duck, edging Seales to Holder, leaving Ollie Pope and Joe Root to resume England’s innings on Saturday.

The West Indies’ resurgence continued as Holder took two excellent slip catches, contributing to England’s shaky start. They ended the day at 38-3, still 244 runs behind.

Nikhat Zareen: Determined to Shine at Olympic Debut

Nikhat Zareen: Determined to Shine at Olympic Debut

Nikhat Zareen, India’s two-time world boxing champion, is eagerly anticipating her Olympic debut in Paris. Despite being a newcomer to the Olympic stage, Zareen is determined to make a mark and bring home a medal.

Zareen’s journey to the Olympics has been marked by unwavering determination and a relentless pursuit of excellence. From her humble beginnings in athletics to her rise as a boxing sensation, she has overcome countless obstacles to reach the pinnacle of her sport.

The pressure of representing India at the Olympics is immense, but Zareen embraces it as a source of motivation. She draws inspiration from the Olympic rings, which she sees as a symbol of her ultimate goal: an Olympic gold medal.

Zareen acknowledges the unpredictability of boxing and the importance of luck in the draw. However, she believes that if a medal is destined for her, no one can take it away. She is confident in her abilities and has put in the necessary hard work to ensure that she is ready for the challenge.

To prepare for the Olympics, Zareen has undergone rigorous training sessions that have pushed her physical and mental limits. She has endured grueling conditioning sessions and intense sparring matches, all in the pursuit of perfection.

Zareen understands the importance of staying focused and avoiding distractions. She limits her social media usage and minimizes contact with her family to maintain her concentration. She knows that an Olympic medal has the power to transform lives and is determined to make the most of this opportunity.

Despite her lack of Olympic experience, Zareen is confident in her abilities and the support of her team. She is eager to showcase her skills on the world stage and make India proud.

India's T20I Team Undergoes Major Overhaul: Suryakumar Yadav Named Captain

India’s T20I Team Undergoes Major Overhaul: Suryakumar Yadav Named Captain

India’s T20I Team Undergoes Major Transformation

Following their triumph at the ICC Men’s T20 World Cup in Barbados, the Indian cricket team has embarked on a period of transition. The retirements of captain Rohit Sharma, Virat Kohli, and Ravindra Jadeja, coupled with the departure of head coach Rahul Dravid, have necessitated significant changes.

New Leadership and Vision

Suryakumar Yadav has been appointed as the new T20I captain, while Shubman Gill has been named vice-captain. Gautam Gambhir has taken over as head coach. The next T20 World Cup is less than two years away, and India is starting from scratch.

Suryakumar’s appointment came as a surprise, as Hardik Pandya was expected to take charge. However, Pandya’s recurrent injury troubles have led to his demotion. Chairman of selectors Ajit Agarkar explained that Pandya’s fitness concerns were a major factor in the decision.

Suryakumar’s Credentials

Suryakumar has proven his batting prowess, but his leadership skills are relatively untested. He led India in a five-match T20I series against Australia last year and a three-match South Africa T20I leg that followed. India won the Australia series 4-1 and tied the South Africa series 1-1.

Suryakumar’s ability to adapt to different situations should serve him well as a leader. At 33, he is a fairly experienced campaigner, despite spending much of his career in the domestic circuit.

Split Captaincy Model

With Rohit retained as the ODI and Test captain, the Indian team has reverted to the split-captaincy model. This is not a preferred long-term solution, as history has shown.

Gill’s Future Prospects

Shubman Gill has emerged as a potential all-format captain. He has shown impressive form in recent months, leading a young side to a 4-1 victory in the T20I series against Zimbabwe.

“Shubman is the guy we feel is a three-format player, and he has shown quality over the last year or so,” said Agarkar.

Bowling Unit Remains Strong

India’s bowling unit, their greatest strength, remains largely unchanged. Jasprit Bumrah, Arshdeep Singh, Mohammed Siraj, and Mohammed Shami form a formidable quartet. Left-arm spinner Kuldeep Yadav continues to shine as the strike-bowler.

Immediate Focus and Future Plans

India’s immediate focus is the 2025 ODI ICC Champions Trophy, which commences in seven months’ time. Rohit and Kohli will continue to lead the team in the 50-over format.

Gambhir has suggested that the duo could potentially feature in the 2027 Cricket World Cup, although this seems unlikely given their advanced age.

The tour to Sri Lanka, which includes three ODIs and three T20Is, will provide the first glimpse of what lies ahead for the national team.

Indian Athletes' Strategies for Managing Pre-Competition Pressure at Paris Olympics

Indian Athletes’ Strategies for Managing Pre-Competition Pressure at Paris Olympics

How Indian Athletes Cope with Pre-Competition Pressure at Paris Olympics

As the Indian contingent prepares to kick off their campaign at the Paris Olympics, athletes are employing various strategies to manage the immense pressure and external distractions that come with competing on the world’s biggest sporting stage.

Abhinav Bindra, India’s first individual Olympic gold medalist, emphasizes the importance of accepting the pressure rather than fighting it. “The best way to deal with the pressure is to stop fighting it. Just accept it and you’ll be fine,” he advises.

Manu Bhaker, who experienced a disappointing performance at the Tokyo Games, has adopted a more relaxed approach this time around. “I am more relaxed. I am not telling myself, ‘do this, do that,'” she says. She finds solace in playing the violin, journaling, and reading.

Rhythm Sangwan, another pistol shooter, uses music to create her own zone. “It helps me find my zone. I might even curate a playlist for Paris,” she says.

Boxer Nikhat Zareen has chosen to disconnect from social media and focus solely on her training. “It’s better to avoid distractions. I have cut down on my public appearances and I will soon disappear from social media too. Paris is my sole focus,” she says.

Rafael Nadal’s pre-match cold shower ritual is a testament to the power of habits in helping athletes stay focused. “It helps me enter a new space in which I feel my power and resilience grow,” he writes in his autobiography.

Staying in the moment is crucial for athletes to shut out the noise. “Embrace the moment rather than succumb to it because a night before the final, all the talk about confidence and technique goes out of the window,” says Bindra.

Neeraj Chopra, the reigning Olympic and world champion, believes in staying away from the distractions of home. “Over-reliance on a particular routine can be counterproductive because you won’t find that curated atmosphere all the time,” says his physiotherapist, Ishaan Marwaha.

PV Sindhu, a two-time Olympic medalist, found peace and quiet in Saarbrucken in the lead-up to the Olympics. “I can focus better,” she says.

Ultimately, each athlete has their own unique way of coping with the pressure of the Olympics. But one thing is clear: the ability to find their zone and shut out the noise will be essential for success in Paris.

Brown's Century Leads Hampshire to Victory in One-Day Cup Opener

Brown’s Century Leads Hampshire to Victory in One-Day Cup Opener

Hampshire’s Ben Brown celebrated his 100th List A appearance with a magnificent century, leading his team to a 71-run victory over Northamptonshire Steelbacks in the Metro Bank One-Day Cup.

After Northamptonshire captain Lewis McManus opted to bowl first, Hampshire found themselves in early trouble at 25 for three, with Jack White claiming the wickets of Fletcha Middleton, Nick Gubbins, and Tom Prest. However, Brown steadied the ship, forming a 51-run partnership with Toby Albert and a substantial 188-run stand with Felix Organ.

Brown’s innings was a masterclass in shot-making, showcasing his exceptional timing and ability to score square of the wicket. He reached his third century of the season in 100 balls, hitting a controlled hook shot to the boundary. Organ also contributed with a brisk 59 off 51 balls.

Hampshire’s total of 285 for 8 looked improbable after White’s early burst, but Brown’s heroics and Organ’s support proved crucial.

Northamptonshire’s chase started promisingly, with Prithvi Shaw and Emilio Gay putting on 56 runs in the first nine overs. However, Eddie Jack’s introduction proved to be a turning point. The teenager dismissed Shaw and Gay in quick succession, and Northamptonshire’s innings began to unravel.

Ricardo Vasconcelos, Rob Keogh, and George Bartlett all fell cheaply, leaving Northamptonshire in a hole. McManus and Saif Zaib offered some resistance, but Jack and Tom Prest continued to pick up wickets, eventually dismissing Northamptonshire for 214.

Gus Miller fought hard for 47, but Jack’s miserly spell and Prest’s three wickets proved too much for the Steelbacks. Jack completed Hampshire’s victory by dismissing White, securing a 71-run win for the hosts.

Sri Lanka's Athapaththu Shines in Asia Cup Semifinal Victory Over Pakistan

Sri Lanka’s Athapaththu Shines in Asia Cup Semifinal Victory Over Pakistan

Sri Lanka’s Chamari Athapaththu Guides Team to Asia Cup Final with Resolute Half-Century

In a thrilling encounter at Dambulla, Sri Lanka’s skipper Chamari Athapaththu led her team to a hard-fought three-wicket victory over Pakistan in the second semifinal of the Women’s Asia Cup. The win propelled Sri Lanka into the championship match against India, who had earlier defeated Bangladesh by 10 wickets.

Athapaththu, the tournament’s leading run-scorer, played a pivotal role in Sri Lanka’s triumph. Her well-timed 63 off 48 deliveries, studded with nine fours and a six, singlehandedly steered the Lankans towards the 141-run target. Her crucial partnership of 61 runs with Kalisha Dilhari (17 off 18 balls) for the third wicket provided Sri Lanka with a solid foundation.

Anushka Sanjeevani’s unbeaten 24 off 22 balls, including a four and a six, also played a significant role in Sri Lanka’s successful chase. The hosts reached the target of 141 for 7 in 19.5 overs, securing their place in the final.

Pakistan’s bowling attack was led by the experienced left-arm spinner Sadia Iqbal, who claimed an impressive 4 wickets for 16 runs in her four overs. However, she lacked adequate support from her fellow bowlers, allowing Sri Lanka to overcome the challenge.

Earlier, Pakistan’s innings was anchored by useful contributions from Muneeba Ali (37), Gull Feroza (25), captain Nida Dar (23), and Fatima Sana (23 not out). Despite getting starts, none of them managed to convert their scores into more substantial ones, resulting in Pakistan posting a total of 140 for four in 20 overs.

Iraqi Judoka Fails First Doping Test of Paris 2024 Olympics

Iraqi Judoka Fails First Doping Test of Paris 2024 Olympics

Iraqi Judoka Fails First Doping Test of Paris 2024 Olympics

The International Testing Agency (ITA) has confirmed the first positive doping test of the 2024 Paris Olympics, involving Iraqi judoka Sajjad Sehen. The athlete tested positive for banned anabolic steroids methandienone and boldenone during an out-of-competition anti-doping control in Paris.

The ITA revealed that Sehen’s sample “returned an adverse analytical finding for the non-specified prohibited substances metandienone and boldenone.” Both drugs are prohibited by the World Anti-Doping Agency (WADA). The sample was collected on Tuesday and the result was reported by the WADA-accredited laboratory of Paris on Thursday.

The 28-year-old Sehen, a first-time Olympian, was scheduled to compete in the men’s 81-kilogram class next week. However, he has been provisionally suspended until the resolution of the matter.

“This means that the athlete is prevented from competing, training, coaching, or participating in any activity during the Olympic Games Paris 2024,” the ITA statement said.

Herda Raouf, the manager of Iraq’s delegation, stated that Sehen and his coach will be questioned by doping chiefs on Saturday. Raouf suggested that Sehen may have taken medication due to a recent surgical operation.

Sehen has the right to challenge his provisional suspension at the Court of Arbitration for Sport and can also request an analysis of the B sample. The ITA manages an independent anti-doping program for the Paris Olympics on behalf of the International Olympic Committee.

This incident highlights the importance of anti-doping measures in ensuring fair play and protecting the integrity of the Olympic Games. The ITA’s swift action in detecting and reporting the positive test sends a strong message that doping will not be tolerated.

Trent Rockets Spinners Dominate, Secure 20-Run Victory over Northern Superchargers

Trent Rockets Spinners Dominate, Secure 20-Run Victory over Northern Superchargers

Trent Rockets commenced their Hundred campaign with a resounding 20-run victory over Northern Superchargers at Headingley, showcasing the prowess of their spin attack.

Chasing a modest target of 124 on a dry pitch, the Superchargers faltered, mustering only 103 all out in 97 deliveries. Australian legspinner Alana King emerged as the tormentor-in-chief, claiming two crucial wickets for just 17 runs. Her mesmerizing delivery that dismissed Bess Heath would have drawn applause from the legendary Shane Warne.

Lucy Higham’s valiant 26 was the highest score for the Superchargers, but King, alongside fellow spinners Kirstie Gordon and Ash Gardner, tightened the screws. Aussie seamer Heather Graham also impressed with three wickets for 13 runs.

Earlier, Grace Scrivens set the tone for the Rockets, showcasing her brilliance with six boundaries in her 32-run knock off 22 deliveries. However, her innings was cut short by Annabel Sutherland, who also accounted for Bryony Smith’s wicket.

Nat Sciver-Brunt, in a commendable all-round performance, remained unbeaten on 36 from 34 balls. Despite her efforts, the Superchargers’ fielding was exceptional, restricting the Rockets to 123 for 5. Sutherland’s three wickets, including Katie George’s lbw dismissal, proved crucial in limiting the visitors’ total.

The Superchargers’ batting faltered, falling short of the target as the Rockets secured a commanding victory.

“The wicket offered some turn and grip, which was beneficial for us,” King remarked. “We kept our plans simple and it paid off. I relish pitches with some spin, and I’m delighted to have contributed.”

King expressed her satisfaction with the delivery that bowled Heath, describing it as a “leg-spinner’s dream.” She also praised the contributions of fellow Australians Gardner and Graham, highlighting the team’s camaraderie.

Andy Murray's Legendary Feat: Breaking the Big 3's Dominance

Andy Murray’s Legendary Feat: Breaking the Big 3’s Dominance

Andy Murray’s illustrious tennis career is nearing its end, with the Paris Olympics set to be his final tournament. As a testament to his remarkable achievements, we present five of his most astounding career statistics, leading up to the commencement of the tournament on Saturday.

Murray’s legacy is marked by three Grand Slam titles, including the US Open in 2012 and Wimbledon in 2013 and 2016. These triumphs were particularly significant, as they came during the most competitive era in men’s tennis history, with Roger Federer, Rafael Nadal, and Novak Djokovic dominating the sport.

However, Murray’s greatest accomplishment may lie in his ability to break the Big 3’s stranglehold on the No. 1 ranking. While other players managed to win Grand Slams during this period, Murray was the only one to reach the top spot between 2004 and 2022.

The Big 3 held the No. 1 ranking for over 12 years, from 2004 to 2016. Murray then ascended to the top spot for 41 consecutive weeks, from 2016 to 2017. This remarkable achievement was fueled by a stellar 2016 season, which saw him win nine titles, including Wimbledon, Olympic gold, and the ATP Finals title.

Murray’s dominance extended beyond the No. 1 ranking. He was the only player outside the Big 3 to spend time in the Top 2 between 2005 and 2021. This remarkable feat underscores his exceptional consistency and ability to compete with the greatest players of all time.

As Murray prepares for his final tournament, his legacy as one of the most accomplished tennis players of his generation is secure. His ability to break the Big 3’s dominance and reach the pinnacle of the sport is a testament to his unwavering determination and exceptional talent.

Home
Shop
Wishlist0
Back to Top

Search For Products

Product has been added to your cart