India Begins Thomas Cup Defense with Hard-Fought Win over Thailand

India Begins Thomas Cup Defense with Hard-Fought Win over Thailand

Holders India commenced their Thomas Cup campaign with a hard-fought 4-1 victory over Thailand in Chengdu on Saturday. However, the Southeast Asian nation proved that rankings hold little significance in the prestigious badminton tournament.

Despite the eventual scoreline, India faced a stern test on the opening day of the world men’s team championships. Paris Olympics-bound HS Prannoy, ranked ninth in the world, initially struggled against Kunlavut Vitidsarn. The reigning world champion rallied to win the first game 22-20 and eventually took the match 22-20, 21-14.

World No. 3 pair Satwiksairaj Rankireddy and Chirag Shetty also faced a challenge against Peeratchai Sukphun and Pakkapon Teeraratsakul. The Indian duo won the first game but made uncharacteristic errors in the second. They regained composure in the decider to win 21-19, 19-21, 21-12.

Lakshya Sen gave India the lead by defeating Panitchaphon Teeraratsakul 21-12, 19-21, 21-16. However, the world No. 105 took a game off the 2022 Commonwealth Games champion.

MR Arjun and Dhruv Kapila defeated Tanadon Punpanich and Wachirawit Sothon 21-19, 21-15. Former world No. 1 Kidambi Srikanth had an easy outing against Saran Jamsri, winning 21-9, 21-5.

In the Uber Cup, a second-string Indian team defeated a full-strength Canada 4-1. Ashmita Chaliha’s victory over Michelle Li was a highlight, as the world No. 53 outsmarted the former top 10 player.

Priya Konjengbam and Shruti Mishra, Isharani Baruah, and Anmol Kharb also contributed to India’s victory.

French Tennis Star Alizé Cornet Announces Retirement After Roland Garros

French Tennis Star Alizé Cornet Announces Retirement After Roland Garros

Alizé Cornet, the French tennis star, has announced her retirement from the sport after the upcoming Roland Garros tournament. The 34-year-old has enjoyed a remarkable career, spanning over two decades, and holds the Open Era record for most consecutive Grand Slam tournaments played with 68.

Cornet’s longevity is a testament to her unwavering determination and resilience. She made her Grand Slam main-draw debut at the age of 15 in Paris in 2005 and has not missed a major main draw since the 2007 Australian Open. This remarkable streak has earned her the respect and admiration of her peers and fans alike.

Throughout her career, Cornet has achieved notable success, including six WTA singles titles. She famously defeated Serena Williams three times in 2014, all while the American was ranked No. 1 in the world. In 2022, she ended Iga Swiatek’s 37-match winning streak, the longest this century, in the third round of Wimbledon. In total, Cornet boasts an impressive 25 career wins against Top 10 players.

Beyond her singles achievements, Cornet has also made significant contributions to French tennis. She has represented her country in four Olympic Games and played on France’s Billie Jean King Cup team for 14 years. Her dedication and passion for the sport have inspired countless young players.

Cornet’s retirement marks the end of an era in French tennis. She has been a role model for aspiring athletes and a source of pride for her country. Her legacy will undoubtedly continue to inspire future generations of tennis players.

Venus Williams Honored for Cultural Impact by Cultured Magazine

Venus Williams Honored for Cultural Impact by Cultured Magazine

Venus Williams, the legendary tennis icon, has been recognized for her profound cultural impact both on and off the court by being named to Cultured magazine’s inaugural ‘Cult 100′ list.

Cultured magazine, a leading voice in art, design, and style, celebrates individuals who embody authenticity, creativity, and a commitment to fostering a more inclusive and meaningful world. Williams’ selection reflects her unwavering dedication to these principles.

Beyond her seven Grand Slam singles titles, Williams has established herself as a trailblazer in the business world. Her recent launch of Palazzo, an A.I.-based interior design firm, showcases her passion for art and innovation. Despite facing challenges in establishing the company, Williams’ resilience and determination, honed on the tennis court, have propelled her forward.

“I’ve overcome so much adversity in my career,” Williams said. “I know what I am capable of and I know that I can still compete at the highest level, so this mindset pushed me through those tough periods of time.”

Williams’ cultural influence extends beyond her sporting achievements. She has been a vocal advocate for equal prize money for female tennis players, using her platform to promote gender equity and women’s empowerment. Her off-court ventures, including her design firm V Starr, have provided her with opportunities to inspire the next generation.

“I am so proud of my achievements on the court, but I take even greater pride in what I’ve accomplished beyond it,” Williams said. “I like to think that my decisions to stand up for what’s right—and be an advocate for gender equity and women’s empowerment—has inspired the next generation.”

Williams’ inclusion in the ‘Cult 100’ list is a testament to her multifaceted contributions to culture. She embodies the magazine’s vision of individuals who cultivate their interests obsessively, exude authenticity, and advocate for a more inclusive and meaningful world.

Warner, Ishant to Miss Another Week for Delhi Capitals

Warner, Ishant to Miss Another Week for Delhi Capitals

Delhi Capitals’ assistant coach Pravin Amre has provided an update on the fitness of David Warner and Ishant Sharma, stating that both players will require another week to regain full fitness. Warner sustained a finger injury while attempting a lap shot against Lucknow Super Giants on April 12, while Ishant is recovering from back spasms.

Warner missed DC’s subsequent matches against Gujarat Titans and Sunrisers Hyderabad, and has since sat out two more games, including the recent victory over Mumbai Indians. Ishant, on the other hand, has been sidelined for the past two games due to back spasms.

Amre expressed optimism that both players will be ready for selection when DC returns to Delhi after their upcoming match against Kolkata Knight Riders on April 29. “I think Warner will take one more week [to be fully fit] and so will Ishant,” Amre said. “They will be ready for selection when we return to Delhi.”

In the absence of Warner and Ishant, DC has relied on the contributions of other players, including Jake Fraser-McGurk, who has impressed with his recent performances. Fraser-McGurk, who was drafted into the squad as a replacement for Lungi Ngidi, has scored 247 runs in five innings, including three half-centuries.

Amre praised Fraser-McGurk’s abilities, highlighting his “X-factor” and his ability to open up the game with his aggressive batting. “He played just three innings [in the ILT20] before leaving to play for Australia but even in that, he played a couple of match-winning innings,” Amre said. “Those knocks were something special. Given he is a young, exciting cricketer, we decided to back him.”

DC’s next match is against Kolkata Knight Riders in Kolkata on April 29, before they return home to play against Rajasthan Royals on May 7. The team will be hoping to maintain their winning momentum and continue their push for a playoff spot.

South East Stars Crush Central Sparks by 71 Runs in Rachael Heyhoe Flint Trophy

South East Stars Crush Central Sparks by 71 Runs in Rachael Heyhoe Flint Trophy

In a thrilling encounter at Beckenham, the South East Stars emerged victorious over Central Sparks by a commanding 71-run margin (D/L method) in the Rachael Heyhoe Flint Trophy.

Ryana MacDonald-Gay continued her impressive start to the season, claiming 4 for 18 to dismantle the Sparks’ batting lineup. The Maidstone-born seamer has now amassed 12 wickets in just three matches, showcasing her lethal bowling prowess.

Paige Scholfield and Tash Farrant laid the foundation for the Stars’ victory with solid half-centuries. Scholfield contributed 65 runs, while Farrant, captaining the side in Bryony Smith’s absence, scored 54.

However, Hannah Baker of the Sparks staged a remarkable comeback, claiming five wickets in four balls to finish with career-best figures of 5 for 45. The Stars faltered from a promising position of 230 for 3 to 268 all out, but their total proved insurmountable for the Sparks.

The Sparks’ chase never gained momentum, as they lost four wickets for two runs, leaving them reeling at 56 for 2. MacDonald-Gay’s double-wicket-maiden in the 18th over further crippled their hopes.

Eve Jones and Chloe Brewer provided some resistance with a 35-run opening partnership, but the Sparks’ batting collapsed after Brewer’s dismissal. MacDonald-Gay’s brilliance continued as she dismissed Davina Perrin, Eve Jones, and Abi Freeborn in quick succession.

Despite a valiant effort from Issy Wong and Grace Ellis, who put together a 61-run partnership, the Sparks were unable to recover from their early setbacks. With 20 overs remaining, rain forced the players off the field, and with no realistic prospect of a resumption, play was abandoned.

Wong remained unbeaten on 34, while Ellis was 18 not out, but the Stars’ 71-run victory was well-deserved.

Mohun Bagan Faces Uphill Task in ISL Semifinal Second Leg

Mohun Bagan Faces Uphill Task in ISL Semifinal Second Leg

Mohun Bagan Super Giant, the defending ISL knock-out champion, faces an uphill task as it prepares to host Odisha FC in the second leg of semifinal 1 of ISL-10. The match, scheduled for April 28 at the Salt Lake Stadium, will be a crucial encounter for both teams, with Mohun Bagan needing to win by a minimum two-goal margin to qualify for the final.

Odisha FC holds a slender 2-1 advantage from the first leg, which was played at the Kalinga Stadium five days ago. This means that a draw will be sufficient for the visitors, while the hosts must find a way to score at least twice without conceding to overturn the deficit.

Mohun Bagan will be buoyed by the massive support of its home crowd, which is expected to be around 62,000 strong. The team has a history of performing well in front of its home fans, having recently won its maiden League Winner’s Shield at the same venue.

However, Odisha FC will not be an easy opponent. The team has been in good form throughout the season and will be confident of holding on to its lead. Odisha FC will be without Spanish defender Carlos Delgado due to suspension, while Mohun Bagan SG will miss Albanian forward Armando Sadiku for the same reason.

The match is expected to be a closely contested affair, with both teams having their strengths and weaknesses. Mohun Bagan will need to be clinical in front of goal and avoid making any defensive errors, while Odisha FC will need to be disciplined and organized in its defense.

The winner of this match will face either Hyderabad FC or ATK Mohun Bagan in the final on May 21.

Rahul's Recovery Job Leads Lucknow to Competitive Total Against Rajasthan

Rahul’s Recovery Job Leads Lucknow to Competitive Total Against Rajasthan

K.L. Rahul’s resilient knock of 76 runs and a crucial partnership with Deepak Hooda propelled Lucknow Super Giants to a competitive total of 196 for five against Rajasthan Royals in the Indian Premier League (IPL) match at the Atal Bihari Vajpayee Stadium in Lucknow.

Rahul’s innings was a tale of recovery and determination. After losing Quinton de Kock and Marcus Stoinis early to Trent Boult and Sandeep Sharma, respectively, Rahul steadied the ship with a composed 48-ball knock. He overcame a shaky start, where he lost his balance and fell down while attempting a slog sweep, to anchor the Lucknow innings.

Rahul’s partnership with Hooda was the cornerstone of Lucknow’s recovery. The duo combined for 115 runs for the third wicket, with Hooda contributing a brisk 48 off 30 deliveries. Hooda showcased his off-side range, punching Boult through covers and backward point with ease.

Avesh Khan’s 21-run eighth over proved to be a turning point in the match. Rahul started the over with a chip over mid-wicket before hooking a No Ball over the fine-leg fielder. He then dispatched a full toss on the Free Hit to bisect the boundary riders at deep mid-wicket and long on.

However, Lucknow’s momentum was halted by the dismissal of Hooda, who holed out at long on immediately after reaching his half-century. Nicholas Pooran failed to make an impact, while Ayush Badoni’s late flourish was not enough to push Lucknow past the 200-run mark.

In the end, Lucknow’s total of 196 for five proved to be a challenging target for Rajasthan Royals, who eventually fell short by 24 runs.

Nadal Triumphs in Madrid, Defeats De Minaur for First Top 50 Win of 2024

Nadal Triumphs in Madrid, Defeats De Minaur for First Top 50 Win of 2024

Rafael Nadal’s resurgence continued at the Mutua Madrid Open on Saturday, as he defeated Alex de Minaur 7-6 (6), 6-3 in the second round. The victory marked Nadal’s first against a Top 50 opponent in 2024 and was a significant step forward for the 37-year-old.

Nadal started the match strongly, breaking De Minaur’s serve in the opening game. However, the Australian fought back to level the set at 3-3. Nadal then faced a setback when he was denied a challenge by chair umpire Fergus Murphy, who deemed him not decisive enough in his decision to stop the point. Nadal lost his serve two points later.

Despite the setback, Nadal remained composed and broke De Minaur’s serve again to level the set at 4-4. The tie-break was a tense affair, with Nadal eventually prevailing 7-6 (6).

In the second set, Nadal broke De Minaur’s serve early and held his own to take a 2-0 lead. De Minaur fought back to 2-2, but Nadal regained the advantage with another break of serve. Nadal then held his serve to love to take a 4-2 lead.

De Minaur continued to push Nadal, but the Spaniard proved too strong. Nadal broke De Minaur’s serve for the third time in the set to take a 5-2 lead. De Minaur held his serve to make it 5-3, but Nadal served out the match to secure the victory.

The win was a significant boost for Nadal, who has struggled for form in recent months. It also marked his first victory over De Minaur, who had defeated him in Barcelona just two weeks earlier.

Western Storm Triumph in Rachael Heyhoe Flint Trophy Opener

Western Storm Triumph in Rachael Heyhoe Flint Trophy Opener

Western Storm emerged victorious in their Rachael Heyhoe Flint Trophy opener, crushing Thunder by 66 runs at Emirates Old Trafford. Sophie Luff’s unbeaten 76 anchored Storm’s impressive 252 for 6, while Sophie Ecclestone’s 3-16 threatened to derail their innings.

Despite Ecclestone’s early wickets, Storm rallied with crucial partnerships. Luff and Nat Wraith forged a 70-run alliance, followed by Luff and Niamh Holland’s 46-run stand. Amanda-Jade Wellington’s late cameo of 31 off 19 balls propelled Storm to a challenging total.

Thunder’s chase faltered early with Seren Smale’s dismissal. Emma Lamb and Katie Mack steadied the ship with a 62-run partnership, but Wellington’s double strike and a disastrous spell from Chloe Skelton left Thunder reeling at 104 for 6.

Ellie Threlkeld and Kate Cross briefly revived Thunder’s hopes with a 69-run partnership, but Sophia Smale’s three wickets and Mahika Gaur’s dismissal sealed Storm’s victory.

Storm’s openers, Griffiths and Smale, provided a solid foundation with a 50-run partnership. Griffiths’ dismissal triggered a mini-collapse, but Luff’s resilience and late acceleration, coupled with Wellington’s quickfire knock, propelled Storm to a formidable score.

Thunder’s spinners, led by Ecclestone, initially controlled the game, but Storm’s determined fightback and Luff’s anchoring innings proved too much to overcome.

Pant Expresses Concerns Over Impact Player Rule After High-Scoring IPL Matches

Pant Expresses Concerns Over Impact Player Rule After High-Scoring IPL Matches

Delhi Capitals captain Rishabh Pant has raised concerns about the impact player rule, expressing that it is making it increasingly difficult for teams to defend high totals. This comes after Delhi Capitals’ back-to-back high-scoring victories in the Indian Premier League (IPL), where chasing teams Gujarat Titans and Mumbai Indians came close to pulling off improbable wins.

In their match against Mumbai Indians, Delhi Capitals posted a mammoth 257 for 4, their highest ever IPL total. However, despite some explosive hitting from Tilak Varma (63 off 32), Mumbai Indians managed to reach 247 for 9, falling just 10 runs short.

“We were pretty happy with 250 on the board, but with the impact sub, it is getting difficult each and every day,” Pant said after the match.

To counter the threat of Mumbai Indians’ batters, Pant resorted to standing up to the stumps against medium pacers Mukesh Kumar and Rasikh Dar. “Definitely, I can keep up to the stumps, but the bowler also should be confident… with batters like Tim David walking down, and today it worked,” he explained.

Pant also praised Jake Fraser-McGurk, who has impressed with his aggressive batting in the IPL. “He has been amazing since the first day, and this is what you want from a younger player. He’s getting better and better with each game,” Pant said.

Meanwhile, Mumbai Indians captain Hardik Pandya acknowledged his team’s lack of game awareness, particularly in not attacking left-arm spinner Axar Patel more aggressively. “We could have taken a couple of more chances in the middle overs. The left-handers could have probably gone after Axar a little bit. It’s something we missed out in terms of game awareness,” Pandya said.

He also expressed admiration for Fraser-McGurk’s batting, saying, “It was quite amazing the way Fraser-McGurk batted. He took calculated risks, he played the field really well. It shows the fearlessness of youth.”

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