Jayasuriya Highlights Importance of India-Sri Lanka Series for Young Players

Jayasuriya Highlights Importance of India-Sri Lanka Series for Young Players

With the Tokyo Olympics captivating global attention, the upcoming India-Sri Lanka limited-overs series may have flown under the radar for some fans. However, Sanath Jayasuriya, Sri Lanka’s interim head coach, emphasizes the “massive importance” of this series for young players from both sides.

Jayasuriya, a legendary Sri Lankan cricketer, believes that the series provides a crucial platform for emerging talents to showcase their skills and gain valuable experience. He acknowledges the strength of the Indian team, which has been performing exceptionally well in recent tournaments. Despite the challenge, Jayasuriya expresses confidence in his team’s ability to compete and potentially emerge victorious.

Reflecting on Sri Lanka’s recent performances in the 2023 ODI World Cup and the T20 World Cup, Jayasuriya identifies areas for improvement. He highlights the need for batters to convert their starts into substantial scores and for the team to address minor deficiencies. He emphasizes the importance of bowlers performing consistently to secure victories.

Jayasuriya praises Yashasvi Jaiswal, a promising left-handed Indian batsman, for his aggressive style and dedication. He believes that Jaiswal’s hard work and sacrifices have contributed to his success.

When asked about countering a formidable bowler like Jasprit Bumrah, Jayasuriya acknowledges his exceptional skills. He advises respecting Bumrah’s abilities but also capitalizing on his occasional off days. He emphasizes the importance of clear thinking and execution for bowlers to succeed at the highest level.

Jayasuriya also discusses the unique bowling talents produced by Sri Lanka, including Pathirana, Theekshana, and Hasaranga. He attributes their success to maintaining their natural bowling styles while learning from their mistakes. He credits the IPL and Sri Lanka Cricket for providing these bowlers with opportunities to develop and gain confidence.

The article concludes by mentioning the recent changes in the Indian team management, including the appointment of Gautam Gambhir as head coach and the elevation of Suryakumar Yadav and Shubman Gill to leadership roles. Jayasuriya views these changes as a positive step towards the future, providing players with opportunities and responsibilities to foster their growth.

India's Olympic Journey Begins: Day 1 Schedule Unveiled

India’s Olympic Journey Begins: Day 1 Schedule Unveiled

India’s Olympic Odyssey Begins: Day 1 Schedule Unveiled

The stage is set for the Paris Olympics 2024, and India’s athletes are poised to make their mark from the very first day. On July 26, a host of Indian stars will take to the field, court, and range, eager to showcase their skills and bring glory to their nation.

Badminton: Shetty and Rankireddy Lead the Charge

India’s badminton contingent will be spearheaded by the dynamic duo of Chirag Shetty and Satwiksairaj Rankireddy. The pair will face Lucas Corvee and Ronan Labar of France in their men’s doubles group match, aiming to secure a top spot in their group.

Shooting: Eyes on the Target

India’s shooters will also be in action on Day 1. Sandeep Singh and Elavenil Valarivan, along with Arjun Babuta and Ramita Jindal, will compete in the 10m air rifle mixed team qualification. They will need to finish in the top four to advance to the gold medal match.

Hockey: Men in Blue Face New Zealand

The Indian men’s hockey team will kick off their Olympic campaign against New Zealand in a Pool B match. The team will be looking to start their tournament with a strong performance and set the tone for the rest of their matches.

Boxing: Preeti Pawar’s Olympic Debut

Preeti Pawar will make her Olympic debut in the women’s 54kg boxing category. She will face Thi Kim anh Vo of Vietnam in the opening round, with a victory securing her a spot in the Round of 16.

Rowing: Panwar Balraj Takes to the Water

Panwar Balraj will represent India in the men’s single sculls rowing event. He will be aiming to qualify for the main draw of the competition and make a strong impression on the Olympic stage.

Table Tennis: Harmeet Desai’s Preliminary Challenge

Harmeet Desai will face Zaid Abo Yaman of Jordan in the men’s singles preliminary round of table tennis. A victory will earn him a place in the main draw of the Round of 64.

Tennis: Bopanna and Balaji Aim for Round of 16

Rohan Bopanna and N Sriram Balaji will team up in the men’s doubles first round match of tennis. They will face Edouard Roger-Vasselin and Fabien Reboul of France, with a win securing their place in the Round of 16.

India's Shooting Contingent Aims for Olympic Glory in Paris

India’s Shooting Contingent Aims for Olympic Glory in Paris

India’s Shooting Contingent Aims for Olympic Glory in Paris

As the Paris Olympics draw near, India’s shooting contingent, comprising a record 21 members, embarks on a historic mission to break the medal drought that has plagued the nation in recent editions of the Summer Games.

The National Rifle Association of India (NRAI) has selected a squad based on current form rather than past achievements, placing its hopes on a group of debutants who are unburdened by the weight of past performances.

Among the key athletes to watch is Manu Bhaker, a 22-year-old shooting prodigy who has won numerous medals at world events. Despite a setback at the Tokyo Games, Bhaker will be competing in three disciplines: 10m air pistol, 25m pistol, and 10m pistol mixed team.

Another promising shooter is Sift Kaur Samra, who won gold in the 50m rifle three positions at the Asian Games. She will team up with seasoned pro Anjum Moudgil in the women’s 50m rifle three positions event.

On the men’s side, Aishwary Pratap Singh Tomar, a member of the gold-winning team at the 2023 World Championships, will be a key contender in the 50m rifle three positions alongside Swapnil Kusale.

Debutants such as Anish Bhanwala, Sarabjot Singh, Arjun Babuta, Arjun Singh Cheema, and Vijayveer Singh will also be looking to make their mark on the international stage.

India’s main challenge will come from China, which is also fielding a strong contingent of 21 shooters. However, India’s chef de mission, Gagan Narang, believes that the team is well-prepared and confident in their abilities.

“There is genuine belief that we are at par with the best in the world,” said Narang, who won a bronze medal at the 2012 Olympics.

The shooting competition will take place in the sleepy French town of Chateauroux, away from the hustle and bustle of Paris. This could prove to be an advantage for the Indian shooters, who will be able to focus solely on their performances.

With a squad full of talented debutants and a strong belief in their abilities, India’s shooting contingent is poised to make a significant impact at the Paris Olympics and end the nation’s medal drought in this prestigious event.

Suryakumar Yadav Vows to Maintain India's Aggressive T20I Style

Suryakumar Yadav Vows to Maintain India’s Aggressive T20I Style

Suryakumar Yadav, the newly appointed captain of the Indian T20I team, has vowed to maintain the aggressive style of play that characterized Rohit Sharma’s tenure. Under Rohit’s leadership, India adopted a revolutionary attacking approach that has become their hallmark.

Suryakumar emphasized that the team’s “train will go ahead” with the same aggressive mindset, despite the change in captaincy. He aims to emulate Rohit’s leadership style and strategies, which he believes have been instrumental in India’s recent success.

“What I have learnt from Rohit is that he was always a leader on the ground and off it,” Suryakumar said. “He was not just a captain — there is a lot of difference between the two. He was a leader who stood in the middle of the group and showed people the way.”

Suryakumar also expressed his desire to provide opportunities for young talents like Riyan Parag and Rinku Singh. He believes that these players have the potential to make a significant impact on the upcoming matches against Sri Lanka.

Reflecting on his own journey, Suryakumar acknowledged that he has undergone a significant transformation over the last decade. He attributed this change to his marriage and the lessons he has learned from playing under different captains.

“I am also a completely changed man now,” he said. “In 2016, I got married. So, absolutely, you have to change after that as well. But yeah, things are completely different now.”

Suryakumar also addressed comments made by the newly appointed head coach, Gautam Gambhir, who expressed regret for not fully utilizing his potential during their time together at the Kolkata Knight Riders franchise. However, Suryakumar remained optimistic, stating that there is still ample time for him to showcase his skills and make a significant impact in the team.

“We can fulfil that potential together now,” he said with a smile. “Our bond has always been special. We have talked a lot. We both understand what we want to say just by our body language.”

India and Sri Lanka Begin New T20I Era with Fresh Faces and Ambitions

India and Sri Lanka Begin New T20I Era with Fresh Faces and Ambitions

India and Sri Lanka Embark on New T20I Era with Fresh Faces and Ambitions

As the sun sets on Pallekele on Saturday, a new chapter in T20I cricket will unfold as India and Sri Lanka face off in a highly anticipated series. Both teams have undergone significant changes, marking a fresh start for their respective T20I journeys.

For India, the retirements of Rohit Sharma, Virat Kohli, and Ravindra Jadeja have paved the way for a new era under the leadership of Suryakumar Yadav. Sri Lanka, too, has bid farewell to Angelo Mathews and appointed Charith Asalanka as their new captain.

Adding to the excitement, both teams have appointed new head coaches: Gautam Gambhir for India and Sanath Jayasuriya for Sri Lanka (in an interim capacity).

Despite their shared new beginnings, the two teams enter the series with contrasting recent performances. India recently triumphed in the 2024 T20 World Cup, ending their long-awaited ICC trophy drought. Sri Lanka, on the other hand, suffered a disappointing first-round exit in the same tournament.

India’s recent success has been followed by a 4-1 T20I series victory over Zimbabwe, while Sri Lanka’s players have been engaged in the Lanka Premier League.

Both Asalanka and Suryakumar have prior experience leading their national sides in T20Is. However, India remains without their star bowler Jasprit Bumrah, who has been rested. Sri Lanka, meanwhile, has faced setbacks with injuries to Nuwan Thushara and Dushmantha Chameera, as well as a flu outbreak that has forced them to call up Ramesh Mendis as a reserve.

Spotlight on Rising Stars

Matheesha Pathirana, the young Sri Lankan pacer, has impressed with his death bowling in the LPL. His economy rate of 7.02 in that phase was the best among those who bowled at least five overs at the death.

Shubman Gill, India’s vice-captain, will be eager to prove his worth in T20Is after a disappointing performance leading up to the World Cup. He has shown promise in the IPL, but needs to translate that form into international success.

Team News and Pitch Conditions

Sri Lanka is likely to open with Pathum Nissanka and Kusal Mendis, with Kusal Perera batting at No. 3. India, on the other hand, may opt for a three-spinner attack, including Ravi Bishnoi.

The pitch in Pallekele is expected to favor spinners, with an average first-innings total of 185 in the LPL. Rain is forecast during the daytime, but the match is unlikely to be affected.

Stats and Trivia

* Sri Lanka has only beaten India once in a bilateral T20I series, in 2021.
* India has won 15 out of 16 T20Is this year, with their only defeat coming against Zimbabwe.
* Suryakumar Yadav is fifth on the list of most sixes in T20Is, with 133.

Zico's Paris Misfortune: Stolen Bag, Olympic Flame Arrives

Zico’s Paris Misfortune: Stolen Bag, Olympic Flame Arrives

Zico’s Paris Ordeal: Stolen Bag, Olympic Flame’s Arrival

Former Brazilian football legend Zico has become the victim of a theft in Paris, with his bag containing valuables worth hundreds of thousands of euros stolen. The incident occurred while Zico, 71, was in transit, leaving his car window open. The stolen items included cash, watches, and diamond jewelry.

While the Parisien daily reported the value of the stolen goods at 500,000 euros ($542,000), a source close to the matter has disputed this figure as highly exaggerated. Zico, a three-time World Cup participant, is currently in Paris as a guest of the Brazilian Olympic team ahead of the 2024 Games.

Meanwhile, the Olympic flame made its grand entrance into Paris on Friday, carried by a white-clad bearer on a diesel-belching tug. The flame had previously been carried by US rapper Snoop Dogg and passed under the peripherique motorway.

The 68th stage of the relay, entitled the “Epilogue,” marked the flame’s final journey before the Games. It had previously passed through Paris on Bastille Day and July 15 before circling the suburbs.

Earlier in the day, the flame visited the athletes’ village, where International Olympic Committee president Thomas Bach and former UN Secretary-General Ban Ki-moon took turns as torchbearers. Athletes from around the world captured the moment on their phones, expressing awe and excitement.

The flame’s journey continued through Saint-Denis, where rapper MC Solaar carried it, and stopped at the Stade de France, where Snoop Dogg took his turn. It then boarded a series of canal boats, cruising past factories and housing blocks to Paris, accompanied by spectators, security, and even canoeists in fancy dress.

The relay toured the Parc de la Villette and the Parc des Nations, housing the “clubhouses” of various countries. It then took to the water again, cruising down the Canal de l’Ourcq towards the Canal Saint-Martin and the Seine.

Sri Lanka, Pakistan Set for Thrilling Women's Asia Cup Semi-Final Clash

Sri Lanka, Pakistan Set for Thrilling Women’s Asia Cup Semi-Final Clash

Sri Lanka and Pakistan Clash in Women’s Asia Cup 2024 Semi-Final

Sri Lanka and Pakistan will lock horns in the second semi-final of the Women’s Asia Cup 2024 on Friday in Dambulla. The match promises to be a thrilling encounter between two evenly matched teams.

Sri Lanka has been in impressive form throughout the tournament, remaining unbeaten in the group stage. They topped Group B with three wins and a tie, showcasing their consistency and resilience. Their batting lineup has been led by Chamari Athapaththu, who has scored two half-centuries, while the bowling attack has been spearheaded by Oshadi Ranasinghe, who has taken seven wickets.

Pakistan, on the other hand, finished second in Group A with two wins and a loss. Their only defeat came against arch-rivals India, who they will face in the final if they can overcome Sri Lanka. Pakistan’s batting has been anchored by Nida Dar, who has scored 102 runs in the tournament, while their bowling has been led by Fatima Sana, who has taken six wickets.

The winner of this semi-final will face India in the summit clash on Sunday. India has been the dominant force in women’s cricket in the region, having won the last six editions of the Asia Cup. However, both Sri Lanka and Pakistan will be determined to upset the favorites and claim the title.

The match is expected to be a close and competitive affair, with both teams having their strengths and weaknesses. Sri Lanka will be looking to continue their unbeaten run, while Pakistan will be eager to avenge their loss to India. The outcome of the match will have a significant impact on the tournament and will set the stage for an exciting final.

Sri Lanka Chooses to Bowl First in Women's Asia Cup Semi-Final Against Pakistan

Sri Lanka Chooses to Bowl First in Women’s Asia Cup Semi-Final Against Pakistan

Sri Lanka Opts to Bowl First in Women’s Asia Cup Semi-Final Against Pakistan

In a crucial semi-final clash of the Women’s Asia Cup, Sri Lanka captain Chamari Athapaththu elected to field first after winning the toss in Dambulla. Athapaththu expressed her team’s intention to restrict Pakistan to a modest total of 140 or less.

Both Sri Lanka and Pakistan fielded unchanged lineups for the high-stakes encounter. Pakistan skipper Nida Dar, on the other hand, preferred to bat first in a knockout match to alleviate pressure. She also stated that a score above 140 would provide a solid foundation for their defense.

Sri Lanka, who have remained unbeaten throughout the tournament, and Pakistan have experienced contrasting fortunes in T20I cricket this year. Athapaththu’s team has triumphed in 12 of their 15 matches, while Pakistan has managed only three victories in 11 outings, with two of those wins coming in the ongoing Asia Cup.

The winner of this semi-final will advance to the final to face India, who have already secured their place.

Sri Lanka Playing XI:

1. Vishmi Gunaratne
2. Chamari Athapaththu (c)
3. Harshitha Samarawickrama
4. Hasini Perera
5. Anushka Sanjeewaniu (wk)
6. Kavisha Dilhari
7. Nilakshika Silva
8. Inoshi Priyadharshani
9. Udeshika Prabodhani
10. Sugandika Kumari
11. Achini Kulasuriya

Pakistan Playing XI:

1. Gull Feroza
2. Muneeba Ali (wk)
3. Sidra Amin
4. Nida Dar (c)
5. Omaima Sohail
6. Aliya Riaz
7. Fatima Sana
8. Tuba Hassan
9. Sadia Iqbal
10. Nashra Sandhu
11. Syeda Aroob Shah

Hardik Pandya's Abilities Rival Ben Stokes, but Consistency Key: Scott Styris

Hardik Pandya’s Abilities Rival Ben Stokes, but Consistency Key: Scott Styris

Hardik Pandya, the Indian all-rounder, possesses exceptional abilities that rival those of England’s Ben Stokes, according to former New Zealand cricketer Scott Styris. However, Styris emphasizes the need for Pandya to demonstrate greater consistency in his performances.

Despite his immense talent, Pandya has not consistently delivered on the field. Styris believes that Pandya must improve his fitness and availability to become a dominant all-rounder. He urges Pandya to showcase his skills with both bat and ball, rather than relying solely on occasional cameos.

Styris also highlights the importance of left-arm all-rounder Axar Patel in India’s upcoming series against Sri Lanka. Patel’s fighting spirit and reliability make him a valuable asset for the team. Styris suggests that Patel could be a floater in the batting order, providing flexibility and depth.

While acknowledging the retirements of Rohit Sharma, Virat Kohli, and Ravindra Jadeja from T20 International cricket, Styris views it as an opportunity for the next generation of Indian players to gain experience. He praises the young Indian cricketers for their talent, as evidenced in the IPL, and believes they can step up and fill the void left by the veterans.

Styris expresses his desire to see Rinku Singh given more opportunities in the Indian team. Singh’s impressive performances have earned him a place in the squad, and Styris believes he should be given a chance to continue his role.

Indian Badminton Contingent Ready to Shine at Paris Olympics

Indian Badminton Contingent Ready to Shine at Paris Olympics

Indian Badminton Contingent Primed for Paris Olympics Glory

As the Paris Olympics draw near, India’s badminton contingent is poised to make a significant impact on the world stage. Led by two-time Olympic medalist PV Sindhu, the “super seven” Indian shuttlers are ready to showcase their skills at the Porte de la Chapelle Arena.

PV Sindhu: Aiming for a Third Medal

PV Sindhu, India’s most decorated badminton player, carries the weight of expectations as she seeks to add to her Olympic medal tally. Despite recent injuries, Sindhu remains a formidable force, having won the Commonwealth Games title in 2022. She will face a tough test in the pre-quarterfinals against world No. 8 He Bing Jiao of China.

Satwik-Chirag: Medal Favorites in Men’s Doubles

Satwiksairaj Rankireddy and Chirag Shetty, known as Satwik-Chirag, are the favorites to earn India a medal in men’s doubles. The duo has been in exceptional form, winning multiple titles and reaching the world No. 3 ranking. They will aim to replicate their success from the Tokyo Olympics, where they defeated the eventual champions.

Lakshya Sen and HS Prannoy: Battling for a Quarterfinal Berth

In men’s singles, India will be represented by Lakshya Sen and HS Prannoy. However, only one of them will advance to the quarterfinals due to an unfortunate draw. Prannoy is likely to top his group, while Sen faces a challenging task against world No. 3 Jonatan Christie of Indonesia.

Ashwini Ponnappa and Tanisha Crasto: Underdogs in Women’s Doubles

Ashwini Ponnappa and Tanisha Crasto will represent India in women’s doubles. They face a daunting task in their group, which includes world No. 4 Nami Matsuyama/Chiharu Shida of Japan and 2023 All England champions Kim So-yeong/Kong Hee-yong of South Korea.

Conclusion

India’s badminton contingent is ready to make a mark at the Paris Olympics. With a mix of experience and rising stars, the “super seven” shuttlers have the potential to bring home medals and add to India’s sporting legacy.

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