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Pandya Returns for Syed Mushtaq Ali Trophy, Ancelotti Defends Real Madrid's Style

Pandya Returns for Syed Mushtaq Ali Trophy, Ancelotti Defends Real Madrid’s Style

By September 20, 2024 0

Hardik Pandya Set to Return for Syed Mushtaq Ali Trophy, Eyes Ranji Trophy Comeback

Indian all-rounder Hardik Pandya is poised to make his return to action in the upcoming Syed Mushtaq Ali Trophy, India’s domestic T20 tournament. The tournament will serve as a warm-up for the Border-Gavaskar Trophy, a Test series against Australia. Pandya has expressed his desire to also play red-ball cricket for his state in the Ranji Trophy.

Real Madrid’s Ancelotti Defends Team’s Style Amidst Criticism

Real Madrid manager Carlo Ancelotti has defended his team’s style of play despite criticism that they have been riding their luck in recent matches. Ancelotti insists that he is more concerned with results than aesthetics, stating that Real Madrid fans prefer “rock and roll football” and winning over playing well.

Ancelotti also rejected claims that his team lacks balance, arguing that collective work is more important than individual positions. He highlighted the versatility of players like Jude Bellingham and Vinicius, who can play both attacking and midfield roles.

Espanyol Face Real Madrid in Good Form

Espanyol will travel to Madrid in good form for their match against Real Madrid on Saturday. The Catalan club secured a 3-2 home win over Alaves last weekend, with Javi Puado scoring a hat-trick. Espanyol traditionally struggles in Madrid, but their recent form suggests they could pose a challenge to the league leaders.

Categories: Football
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Indian Tennis in Davis Cup Crisis: Bickering, Apathy, and Declining Performance

Indian Tennis in Davis Cup Crisis: Bickering, Apathy, and Declining Performance

By September 20, 2024 0

Indian tennis has witnessed a significant decline in its Davis Cup performance, transitioning from being a formidable opponent to struggling in lower groups. This decline is accompanied by internal strife, including frequent bickering, finger-pointing, and apathy.

Following a 4-0 defeat to Sweden, the team captain urged critics to “shut up,” while the federation blamed certain players. Sumit Nagal, India’s top-ranked singles player, defended his physical issues and compensation demands.

This breakdown in communication and trust has resulted in India fielding a weakened team for the second consecutive tie. Top players Nagal, Sasikumar Mukund, and Yuki Bhambri were absent due to injury concerns or personal choices.

Indian tennis has a history of player-vs-player and player-vs-federation conflicts, but the current situation is particularly dire. Former Davis Cupper Vishaal Uppal emphasizes the need to address player grievances and foster a harmonious relationship.

Similar issues arose three years ago when Nagal withdrew from a tie due to injury, and Mukund declined to replace him. Somdev Devvarman criticized the leadership for failing to motivate players.

Despite these concerns, the AITA elections later this month offer a glimmer of hope for change. Players are closely monitoring the situation, hoping for a shift in leadership that prioritizes their well-being and the revival of Indian tennis in Davis Cup.

Categories: Tennis
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Ricky Ponting Appointed Head Coach of Punjab Kings in IPL

Ricky Ponting Appointed Head Coach of Punjab Kings in IPL

By September 20, 2024 0

Ricky Ponting, the legendary Australian cricketer, has been appointed as the head coach of the Punjab Kings (PBKS) in the Indian Premier League (IPL). Ponting’s appointment marks a significant change for PBKS, who have struggled to find consistency in recent seasons.

Ponting’s coaching journey in the IPL began with the Kolkata Knight Riders in 2008. He later joined the Mumbai Indians, where he led the team to their first IPL title in 2013. In 2018, he took over as head coach of the Delhi Capitals, guiding them to three consecutive playoff appearances.

Ponting’s primary task at PBKS will be to identify players for retention ahead of the upcoming season. The team has not qualified for the playoffs since 2014 and finished ninth in the 2024 IPL season.

Ponting acknowledged the pressure of winning a trophy as a coach but welcomed it. He said, “That is the thing that makes coaching inviting to me. I like having that pressure. It is as close to getting back to playing as you can possibly get.”

Reflecting on his IPL journey, Ponting called coaching MI an “awesome experience” and described the DC changing room as a “special place” despite not winning a trophy. He noted that coaching in the IPL has evolved and is now more specific, with teams covering every aspect by appointing specialized coaches.

Key performers for Punjab last season included Harshal Patel, who won the Purple Cap for the second time, and the uncapped Indian players Shashank Singh and Ashutosh Sharma. The squad also includes talents like left-arm fast bowler Arshdeep Singh, wicketkeeper-batter Jitesh Sharma, and leg-spinner Rahul Chahar. Notable overseas players in the team are England’s Sam Curran, Liam Livingstone, Jonny Bairstow, and South African pacer Kagiso Rabada.

With Shikhar Dhawan’s recent retirement, identifying a new captain will also be a priority for Ponting and the team management.

Categories: Cricket
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Chess Olympiad Trophy Goes Missing, AICF Files Police Complaint

Chess Olympiad Trophy Goes Missing, AICF Files Police Complaint

By September 20, 2024 0

The All India Chess Federation (AICF) has filed a police complaint after the Gaprindashvili Trophy, a rolling trophy awarded to the team with the best overall performance in the Chess Olympiad, went missing from its office. The incident has forced the AICF to arrange for a replica of the prized possession and tender an apology.

The trophy went missing over a month ago, after the International Chess Federation (FIDE) requested its return for the ongoing 45th edition of the Olympiad in Budapest. Despite extensive searches, the AICF has been unable to locate the trophy.

AICF vice-president Anil Kumar Raizada expressed embarrassment over the situation, stating that the trophy had been missing for over 30 days. He confirmed that an official police complaint had been filed and an investigation would follow.

A senior AICF official revealed that a contingency plan was in place and a replacement trophy had been ordered. The official acknowledged the embarrassing nature of the situation and apologized for the inconvenience caused.

The current edition of the Olympiad, which began on September 10 and concludes on September 23, features 197 teams representing 195 national federations. India is fielding strong teams in both the open and women’s categories, with the open team consisting of Arjun Erigaisi, Gukesh D, Praggnanandhaa R, Vidit Santosh Gujrathi, and Harikrishna Pentala. The women’s team includes Harika Dronavalli, Vaishali Rameshbabu, Divya Deshmukh, Vantika Agrawal, and Tania Sachdev.

The AICF’s failure to safeguard the Gaprindashvili Trophy has raised concerns about the organization’s handling of valuable assets. The incident has also cast a shadow over the ongoing Olympiad, where India is a strong contender for the gold medal.

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Magnus Carlsen Urges FIDE to Reject Russia and Belarus Reinstatement

Magnus Carlsen Urges FIDE to Reject Russia and Belarus Reinstatement

By September 20, 2024 0

Chess legend Magnus Carlsen has vehemently opposed the potential reinstatement of Russia and Belarus into the International Chess Federation (FIDE) ahead of a crucial vote this weekend. The two countries were expelled from FIDE in 2022 due to Russia’s invasion of Ukraine.

Carlsen, who was honored as the greatest player of all time at a FIDE gala in Budapest, used his platform to advocate against the readmission of Russia and Belarus. He cited the ongoing conflict in Ukraine and the need to maintain sanctions against the aggressor nations.

“In Garry’s honor, I’m sure he would take the opportunity to advise against reinstating the Russian and Belarusian Chess Federation, so that is what I will do as well,” Carlsen stated.

Garry Kasparov, a renowned Russian grandmaster and outspoken critic of President Vladimir Putin, echoed Carlsen’s sentiments. “Indeed I would, and do!” Kasparov wrote on social media.

The proposed readmission of Russia and Belarus has sparked controversy within the chess community and beyond. Ukraine’s sports minister, Matviy Bidny, praised Carlsen’s stance, emphasizing the importance of maintaining sanctions against Russia and Belarus while the war continues.

“Sanctions against Russia and Belarus should only be strengthened as long as the war continues, as dictatorial regimes are trying to legitimise the war against Ukraine by using sport and athletes,” Bidny said.

Carlsen, a five-time world chess champion, has consistently dominated the sport since 2013. His unwavering opposition to the readmission of Russia and Belarus underscores the gravity of the situation and the need for the chess community to stand in solidarity with Ukraine.

Categories: Others
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Paris Olympics Legacy: Temporary Facilities Find New Homes in Underprivileged Areas

Paris Olympics Legacy: Temporary Facilities Find New Homes in Underprivileged Areas

By September 20, 2024 0

The 2024 Paris Olympics embraced sustainability and legacy by utilizing temporary sports facilities and redistributing them to underprivileged areas. The iconic swimming pool where Leon Marchand triumphed with four gold medals is being dismantled and relocated to Sevran, a suburb with limited aquatic facilities. The pool will be renamed the “Leon Marchand Pool” and will be funded by the Paris 2024 organizing committee, while the local council will cover operational costs.

Another training pool from the Defense Arena will be divided in half, with one part forming a new 25-meter pool in Bagnolet. The Seine-Saint-Denis region, which received the majority of Games-related infrastructure investments, will benefit from these facilities.

Temporary stadiums erected at historic locations are also being dismantled. The BMX park from Place de la Concorde has been relocated to Cluses for a future world event, while the sand from the Eiffel Tower beach volleyball court has been donated to a sports center in Marville. Marville is also expected to receive one of the skate parks, while the other will be sent to Montpellier.

The mountain-biking track near Elancourt is being converted into a multi-purpose facility for riders and walkers. Sports expert Pierre Rondeau praised the redistribution of infrastructure, noting that Paris has ample facilities while other areas can benefit from these resources.

The Paris Games’ legacy extends beyond temporary facilities. The new aquatics center in Seine-Saint-Denis is one of only three permanent venues built for the Olympics. The Games have also spurred investments in sports infrastructure throughout France, with 80% of public spending allocated to the Seine-Saint-Denis region.

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Manchester City Hold Rest Advantage Over Arsenal in Title Clash

Manchester City Hold Rest Advantage Over Arsenal in Title Clash

By September 20, 2024 0

Manchester City manager Pep Guardiola acknowledges the “advantage” his team will have when they face Arsenal on Sunday, given their extra day of rest. However, the champions are concerned about the fitness of Kevin De Bruyne ahead of the crucial clash.

City played at home in their Champions League draw with Inter Milan on Wednesday, while Arsenal traveled to Italy for their goalless stalemate against Atalanta on Thursday. Guardiola believes the additional 24 hours of recovery could be crucial in the first meeting this season between the two clubs that have finished first and second for the last two seasons.

City won both of those title races, leaving Arsenal still waiting for their first English crown since 2004. A victory at the Etihad Stadium on Sunday would be a significant boost to City’s hopes of an unprecedented fifth successive Premier League title.

However, City’s recovery time advantage might be offset by the potential absence of De Bruyne, who limped off during the draw against Inter. Guardiola said the Belgian midfielder “feels a bit better today” and will be assessed in training on Saturday.

Fueled by Erling Haaland’s nine goals, City have established themselves as the team to beat once again this season. The champions, who boast a 100 percent record after four league games, sit two points ahead of Arsenal, who have won three and drawn one.

Guardiola has a healthy respect for the threat posed by Arsenal, who took the title fight down to the final day last season. “They are a complete team, which is why they’ve been our biggest rivals in the last two seasons,” he said.

Although they finished above them, City failed to beat Arsenal last term, losing 1-0 at the Emirates Stadium, drawing 0-0 in Manchester, and suffering a penalty shoot-out defeat in the Community Shield.

“It’s always been a tight game in the last few years,” Guardiola said. “Every season they are better and better. Both years have been close, but we have been so strong and we are still strong.”

City would move five points clear of Arsenal with a first victory over them since April 2023. However, Guardiola insists it is far too early in the season for the result to be regarded as significant.

“In this early stage of the season, nothing more than the mood over the next few games will be decided. In terms of the table, it’s not really important,” he said. “It’ll be more important when we go to London in the second half of the season.”

Categories: Football
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IOA Crisis Deepens as Usha and EC Members Trade Accusations

IOA Crisis Deepens as Usha and EC Members Trade Accusations

By September 20, 2024 0

The Indian Olympic Association (IOA) is embroiled in a deepening crisis as President PT Usha and members of the executive committee (EC) engage in a bitter exchange of accusations.

Usha had issued notices to five EC members on September 10, alleging that they held positions in violation of the IOA constitution and Sports Code. Vice-president and EC member Rajlaxmi Singh Deo has retaliated, questioning Usha’s own election as IOA president.

Deo claims that Usha’s “Proposer” and “Seconder” for her nomination were not approved by the IOA General Body, rendering her election “illegal.” She cites the IOA Constitution, which outlines the process for nominating and electing Sportspersons of Outstanding Merit (SOM) to the EC.

Deo has invited Usha to respond to her allegations, which she has shared with the Sports Minister and the International Olympic Committee. Usha was elected IOA president in December 2022, becoming one of eight SOMs selected by the Athletes Commission.

The crisis within the IOA stems from the appointment of CEO Raghu Ram Iyer in January. Usha and the majority of the EC oppose the appointment, leading to a power struggle that has escalated after the Paris Olympics.

Besides Deo, EC members Ajay Patel, Sahdev Yadav, Bhupinder Singh Bajwa, and Alaknanda Ashok have been accused of violating the Sports Code. Deo has criticized Usha for acting on an “anonymous” letter and failing to investigate the complainant’s veracity.

She has accused Usha of malicious intent, aiming to silence EC members who have raised concerns about her alleged violations of the IOA constitution. The ongoing turmoil has severely impacted the functioning of the IOA, casting a shadow over its preparations for future sporting events.

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Goran Djokovic Elected President of Serbian Tennis Federation, Aims to Build National Training Centre

Goran Djokovic Elected President of Serbian Tennis Federation, Aims to Build National Training Centre

By September 20, 2024 0

Novak Djokovic’s uncle, Goran Djokovic, has been elected president of the Serbian Tennis Federation, with a mission to establish a national training center. Goran Djokovic, who previously served as vice-president of the federation, has extensive experience in tennis, including organizing ATP tournaments in Belgrade and Sofia.

“My tennis knowledge primarily stems from Novak, but I also have seven years of experience as director of the Serbia Open and Sofia Open,” Djokovic stated after his election. “My objective is to continue developing what we’ve begun, with finances being crucial.”

Djokovic emphasized the need for a National Training Centre, highlighting the lack of dedicated facilities for Serbian tennis players. “We don’t have our own facilities, we don’t have a National Training Centre, and I want to address that. I wouldn’t have even run for this position if we didn’t have the full support of the president of Serbia.”

Novak Djokovic, a former world number one, has won 24 Grand Slam titles. The 37-year-old, who won Olympic gold in Paris, is currently ranked fourth in the world. His uncle’s appointment as president of the Serbian Tennis Federation is expected to further enhance the development of tennis in Serbia.

Categories: Tennis
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Arsenal and Manchester City Face Injury Concerns Ahead of Crucial Clash

Arsenal and Manchester City Face Injury Concerns Ahead of Crucial Clash

By September 20, 2024 0

Arsenal manager Mikel Arteta remains uncertain about the exact recovery timeline for captain Martin Odegaard, who sustained significant ankle ligament damage while playing for Norway earlier this month. Scans confirmed the severity of the injury, ruling Odegaard out of Sunday’s crucial English Premier League clash with Manchester City.

Arteta expressed his concern during a press conference on Friday, stating, “We need to monitor his progress over the next week or so, particularly how his ankle responds. The medical staff will provide me with an update on the timeframe and the duration of his absence.”

Meanwhile, Manchester City could be without their star midfielder Kevin de Bruyne for the Etihad Stadium encounter. De Bruyne appeared to suffer a strain before halftime of Wednesday’s Champions League match against Inter Milan.

City manager Pep Guardiola did not rule out the Belgian’s availability, saying, “He feels a little better.” De Bruyne’s fitness will be assessed during Saturday’s training session.

The absence of both Odegaard and De Bruyne would be a significant blow to their respective teams. Odegaard has been a key figure in Arsenal’s impressive start to the season, while De Bruyne is a vital cog in City’s title defense.

Arteta acknowledged the importance of Odegaard’s leadership and creativity, saying, “He’s our captain, and he’s a very important player for us. We’ll have to find a way to cope without him.”

Guardiola, on the other hand, expressed confidence in his squad’s depth, saying, “We have other players who can step up and perform. We’ll see how Kevin is, but we have a strong team.”

The outcome of Sunday’s match could have a major impact on the Premier League title race. Arsenal currently lead the standings, while City are just three points behind. A victory for either side would be a significant boost to their title aspirations.

Categories: Football
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