Johnny Grave to Step Down as CWI CEO in 2024

Johnny Grave to Step Down as CWI CEO in 2024

Johnny Grave, the Chief Executive Officer (CEO) of Cricket West Indies (CWI), has announced his departure from the organization in October 2024. Grave, who has held the position since February 2017, will step down after overseeing a successful period for West Indies cricket.

During his tenure, Grave has played a pivotal role in hosting three World Cups in the West Indies: the 2018 Women’s T20 World Cup, the 2022 Under-19 World Cup, and the upcoming 2024 Men’s T20 World Cup co-hosted with the USA. He also served as the T20 World Cup CEO for the event held in June 2023.

Grave’s leadership has also been instrumental in securing significant surpluses for CWI for three consecutive years. He has been a vocal advocate for changes in the ICC’s revenue-share model, calling it “completely broken” and urging the boards of India, Australia, and England to work with the ICC to improve the economics of Test cricket.

Kishore Shallow, CWI President, praised Grave’s contributions, stating, “Johnny’s efforts, particularly through challenging times such as the Covid-19 pandemic, as well as successfully hosting three World Cups including have made a lasting impact on CWI.”

Under Grave’s guidance, CWI has acquired and taken full ownership of the Coolidge Cricket Ground (CCG), which now serves as the organization’s headquarters and home to its Men’s and Women’s Academies.

CWI has initiated a comprehensive recruitment process to select Grave’s successor. The organization is committed to ensuring a thorough and transparent selection process, with details to be announced shortly.

PR Sreejesh to Join Manu Bhaker as India's Flag Bearer at Paris Olympics Closing Ceremony

PR Sreejesh to Join Manu Bhaker as India’s Flag Bearer at Paris Olympics Closing Ceremony

Indian hockey legend PR Sreejesh has been bestowed the honor of being the second flag bearer for India at the closing ceremony of the Paris Olympics 2024, alongside shooting sensation Manu Bhaker. This decision, made by the Indian Olympic Association (IOA), was a late one, with Neeraj Chopra initially designated for the role.

However, when IOA president PT Usha informed Chopra of the change in plans, the Tokyo Olympics gold medalist’s response exemplified his humility and sportsmanship. Usha revealed that Chopra immediately accepted the decision, stating that he would have suggested Sreejesh’s name himself if Usha had not asked.

“He told me ‘Ma’am, even if you had not asked me, I would have suggested Sree bhai’s name’,” Usha said. “It is reflective of the immense respect Neeraj has for Sreejesh and his contribution to Indian sport.”

The decision to appoint Sreejesh as the second flag bearer was met with unanimous support within the IOA leadership. Usha praised Sreejesh’s unwavering dedication to Indian hockey and sport in general, spanning over two decades.

“Sreejesh has served Indian hockey in particular and Indian sport in general admirably through more than two decades,” Usha said. “He is both an emotional and popular choice within the IOA leadership to be the flagbearer at the Paris Olympics closing ceremony.”

Sreejesh’s selection as flag bearer is a testament to his exceptional achievements and the respect he commands within the Indian sporting fraternity. His presence at the closing ceremony will serve as a fitting tribute to his illustrious career and the unwavering spirit of Indian athletes.

Vinesh Phogat's Olympic Fate to be Decided by CAS on Tuesday

Vinesh Phogat’s Olympic Fate to be Decided by CAS on Tuesday

Vinesh Phogat’s Olympic fate hangs in the balance as the Court of Arbitration for Sport (CAS) prepares to issue a verdict on her disqualification from the Paris Games. The Indian wrestler was disqualified after failing to make weight for her 50kg final bout, and she has appealed for a shared silver medal.

The CAS hearing took place on Friday, and the sole arbitrator, Dr. Annabelle Bennett, was expected to issue a decision by the end of the Games. However, she has sought more time, and the verdict is now expected on Tuesday. The reasoned order will be issued at a later date.

Vinesh has taken the United World Wrestling (UWW) and International Olympic Committee (IOC) to court, arguing that the results of her first three bouts should not have been wiped out. The Indian Olympic Association (IOA) is also part of the case as an interested party.

In a statement issued on Sunday, IOA president PT Usha defended Dr. Dinshaw Pardiwala, the IOA’s Chief Medical Officer, who has been criticized for his role in the events leading up to Vinesh’s disqualification. Usha clarified that the responsibility for weight management lies with the athletes and their coaches, not the IOA or Dr. Pardiwala.

Vinesh’s team has argued that she was delayed in the weight cut process due to the distance between the wrestling venue and the Athletes’ Village. They have also pointed out that the amount of weight she needed to lose was negligible.

The IOC and UWW have argued that if the line is pushed for 100 grams, it could lead to a slippery slope. However, some coaches have expressed concern about women having to shed weight twice in such events and have called for relaxation in the rules.

The CAS verdict will have a significant impact on Vinesh’s career. If she is reinstated, she will have a chance to win an Olympic medal. However, if her disqualification is upheld, it will be a major setback for the Indian wrestler.

Arshad Nadeem's Historic Gold Medals Transforms Pakistan's Sporting Landscape

Arshad Nadeem’s Historic Gold Medals Transforms Pakistan’s Sporting Landscape

Arshad Nadeem’s historic gold medal at the Paris Olympics has etched his name in the annals of Pakistani sports and javelin throw. Shattering the Olympic record, Nadeem dethroned defending champion Neeraj Chopra of India, becoming the first Pakistani to claim an individual Olympic gold.

Nadeem’s triumph marks a watershed moment for Pakistan, as it is the nation’s first Olympic gold since the men’s hockey team’s victory in 1984. His journey to the pinnacle of javelin throw has been marked by resilience and determination, as he has largely relied on his own resources despite his exceptional talent.

Nadeem’s father, Muhammad Ashraf, a former construction worker, expressed his pride in his son’s achievements while acknowledging the lack of government support. “I have nothing to ask of the government,” Ashraf said. “I will support my son as long as I am alive.”

Nadeem’s path to the Olympics was not without challenges. He arranged his own travel for the Tokyo Olympics in 2021, where he finished fifth. His subsequent triumphs at the 2023 Hangzhou Asian Games and the 2024 World Athletics Championship in Budapest finally prompted the Pakistani government to sponsor his airfare for the Paris Games.

Nadeem’s gold medal is a testament to his unwavering spirit and the transformative power of sport. It has inspired a nation and ignited a renewed passion for athletics in Pakistan. His legacy will continue to inspire generations of athletes to pursue their dreams and strive for greatness.

Shakib Al Hasan Confirms Availability for All 2024 Bangladesh Test Matches

Shakib Al Hasan Confirms Availability for All 2024 Bangladesh Test Matches

Star Bangladesh all-rounder Shakib Al Hasan has confirmed his availability for all eight Test matches scheduled in 2024, providing a significant boost to the team’s World Test Championship (WTC) campaign.

Chief selector Gazi Ashraf Hossain confirmed Shakib’s commitment, stating that the player had assured the selectors of his participation in all practice sessions and Test matches. This is a significant development, as Shakib had previously expressed uncertainty about his availability beyond the upcoming Pakistan series.

Shakib’s return to the Test fold is crucial for Bangladesh, as he is one of the world’s leading all-rounders. His presence in the team provides balance and depth, both with bat and ball. Hossain emphasized Shakib’s importance, stating that he is “one of the best all-rounders over the past years.”

Bangladesh’s Test schedule in 2024 includes four two-match series against Pakistan, India, South Africa, and the West Indies. These matches are part of the WTC cycle, which determines the top-ranked Test team in the world.

Shakib’s availability for all these matches will be a major asset for Bangladesh, as they aim to improve their position in the WTC standings. The team currently sits in ninth place, but with Shakib in the lineup, they have a chance to challenge the top teams.

The WTC series against Pakistan begins on August 21, with the second match starting on August 30. Shakib is expected to join the team on August 14 or 15 and participate in practice sessions before the first Test.

Bhutanese Marathon Runner Kinzang Lhamo Captivates Paris Crowd with Unwavering Spirit

Bhutanese Marathon Runner Kinzang Lhamo Captivates Paris Crowd with Unwavering Spirit

Kinzang Lhamo, a marathon runner from the tiny Himalayan kingdom of Bhutan, captured the hearts of the Parisian crowd at the 2024 Olympics, not for her victory, but for her indomitable spirit. Despite finishing last in the women’s marathon, nearly an hour and a half behind gold medalist Sifan Hassan of the Netherlands, Lhamo received the loudest cheers from the spectators.

Lhamo’s journey to the Olympics was a testament to her perseverance and determination. As the sole female member of Bhutan’s Olympic team, she carried the nation’s flag during the opening ceremony. Her goal was simple: to complete the marathon, regardless of her finishing position.

Throughout the grueling 42-kilometer race, Lhamo remained steadfast in her pursuit. While other runners dropped out, she pressed on, her pace unwavering. Her determination inspired the crowd, who stood and applauded her as she crossed the finish line.

Lhamo’s performance embodied the true spirit of the Olympics. It was not about winning or losing, but about the journey and the human spirit’s ability to overcome adversity. Her story resonated with the Parisian crowd, who recognized her unwavering determination and celebrated her achievement.

Despite finishing last, Lhamo’s impact on the Olympics was profound. She became a symbol of hope and inspiration, proving that even in the face of overwhelming odds, the human spirit can prevail. Her story will undoubtedly continue to inspire athletes and spectators alike for years to come.

Olympic Gold Medalist Tom Daley Retires from Diving After Paris Games

Olympic Gold Medalist Tom Daley Retires from Diving After Paris Games

Tom Daley, the celebrated British diver and Olympic gold medalist, has announced his retirement from the sport following the Paris Games. The 30-year-old icon, who has graced the Olympic stage for over a decade, made the decision to step away after winning a silver medal in the men’s synchronized 10m platform in France.

Daley’s illustrious career has been marked by five Olympic medals, including a gold in the same event at the Tokyo Games in 2021. His journey began at the tender age of 14 when he first competed at the 2008 Beijing Olympics. Since then, he has consistently showcased his exceptional talent, earning a bronze medal in the 10m platform at the 2012 London Olympics and another bronze in the men’s synchronized 10m platform at the 2016 Rio Games.

After his triumph in Tokyo, Daley initially retired but later decided to return for a fifth Olympics in Paris to compete in front of his two children. The experience proved to be both nerve-wracking and emotional for the veteran diver.

“It feels very, very surreal,” Daley said in an interview with British Vogue. “I felt so incredibly nervous going into this, knowing it was my last Olympics. There was a lot of pressure and expectations. I was eager for it to be done.”

However, the presence of his family and friends in the audience provided solace and motivation. “When I walked out and saw my husband (Lance) and kids (Robbie and Phoenix) and my friends and family in the audience, I was like, you know what? This is exactly why I did this,” he said.

Daley’s retirement marks the end of an era in British diving. His exceptional skills, unwavering determination, and inspiring story have made him a role model for aspiring athletes and a beloved figure in the sporting world.

Neeraj Chopra Seeks Medical Advice in Germany for Groin Injury

Neeraj Chopra Seeks Medical Advice in Germany for Groin Injury

Star Indian javelin thrower Neeraj Chopra has embarked on a journey to Germany to seek medical advice regarding a potential surgery for his persistent groin injury. The decision comes after Chopra’s impressive silver medal performance at the Paris Olympics, where he showcased his resilience despite the nagging injury.

Sources close to Chopra’s family have confirmed his departure to Germany, where he is expected to remain for at least a month. The 26-year-old athlete had previously expressed his intention to consult doctors after the Olympics to address his injury, which has hindered his performance in recent months.

Chopra’s injury woes began in 2023 when he won the World Championships while carrying the groin injury. Prior to the Paris Olympics, he took a break of over a month due to an adductor muscle niggle. Despite the setbacks, Chopra remained determined to compete in Paris, where he delivered a season’s best throw of 89.45m to secure a silver medal.

During the Olympics, Chopra expressed his desire to participate in the Diamond League Final in Brussels, Belgium, on September 14. However, his participation hinges on his recovery and whether he can compete in at least one Diamond League Meeting before the final.

Chopra’s team, including his coach and physiotherapist, will assess his condition and make a decision on his participation in the Diamond League Meetings. The athlete has previously consulted a doctor in Germany regarding his injury and underwent a short training stint in Saarbrucken before the Olympics.

If Chopra misses both the Lausanne and Zurich Diamond League Meetings, he may miss out on a top-six finish in the DL Meetings series, which would prevent him from competing in the DL Final.

Chopra’s injury has been a significant concern for the Indian athlete, who has hinted at the possibility of undergoing surgery to address the issue. He has stated that the injury has affected his focus and performance, with 60-70% of his attention being diverted to managing the pain.

Vyshak Vijaykumar Ready to Showcase Skills in Maharaja Trophy

Vyshak Vijaykumar Ready to Showcase Skills in Maharaja Trophy

Vyshak Vijaykumar, the vice-captain and pacer of Gulbarga Mystics, is poised to showcase his enhanced skills and bolstered self-assurance in the upcoming Maharaja Trophy Karnataka State Cricket Association (KSCA) T20 tournament.

During the Indian Premier League (IPL) 2024, Vyshak made a significant impact for the Royal Challengers Bengaluru (RCB) franchise, claiming four wickets in four matches. His impactful bowling spells proved to be game-changers, helping RCB secure victories.

Inspired by his RCB teammates like Virat Kohli and Mohammed Siraj, Vyshak has adopted a meticulous approach to his game. “Training with Virat Kohli can really impact you as a player,” he remarked. “I paid attention to his work ethic, process, and consistency. Everything he does is done with precision.”

As a seasoned member of the Gulbarga Mystics, Vyshak will mentor and guide the less experienced players. He will draw upon the wisdom imparted to him by his own mentors, such as Siraj, who provided invaluable guidance during his early days in the squad.

“In my first game for RCB, I did well, but then I conceded 60 runs in the next match,” Vyshak recalled. “Siraj told me, ‘This is the game, and this is the challenge at the highest level.’ I am keen to keep this in mind and to pass on these lessons whenever I can.”

Vyshak is determined to surpass the obstacles faced by the Mystics in the previous season, when they finished third without the services of Devdutt Padikkal. “Missing Devdutt made a big difference last season,” he said. “We want to finish stronger this year. We bat deep, and I have been batting well too, so I am hoping to contribute with the bat as well.”

Although stepping down from captaincy, Vyshak is excited to work alongside Padikkal as vice-captain. “I love captaincy, but with Devdutt’s experience and recently his India debut, I am looking forward to supporting him as the vice-captain,” he added.

Vyshak credits the Maharaja Trophy for helping launch his IPL career. “The first season of Maharaja got me noticed and led to my IPL debut,” he remarked. “This platform provided by KSCA is exceptional and a huge opportunity for all of us.”

The Gulbarga Mystics will commence their journey in the Maharaja Trophy KSCA T20 on August 15, facing the Bengaluru Blasters in the tournament’s opening encounter.

Irish Olympian Daniel Wiffen Hospitalized with Stomach Bug After Seine Swim

Irish Olympian Daniel Wiffen Hospitalized with Stomach Bug After Seine Swim

Irish Olympian Daniel Wiffen, who won a silver medal in the 800m swimming and a bronze in the 1500m, was rushed to a Paris hospital with a stomach bug just two days after competing in the marathon swimming event in the River Seine. Wiffen was scheduled to carry the Irish flag during the closing ceremony on Sunday but was unable to attend due to his illness.

“Thanks everyone who reached out, I’m incredibly disappointed to miss out on the opportunity to be flag bearer last night,” Wiffen wrote on social media. “Yesterday I rushed to hospital as I was very unwell with a bug that I am being treated for, and am feeling better now.”

Wiffen competed in the men’s 10-kilometer marathon swim in the River Seine on Friday, finishing 18th with a time of 1 hour 58 minutes. He did not link his illness to the water, and organizers emphasized that health problems should not be automatically attributed to the river.

However, at least three athletes out of over a hundred who participated in the men’s and women’s triathlons on July 31 reported illness after swimming in the Seine. Belgian triathlete Claire Michel required medical attention after suffering from vomiting and diarrhea due to a virus.

Despite a 1.4 billion euro upgrade to improve the Paris sewerage and water treatment system, the Seine has faced pollution issues during the Olympics. Due to summer rains and storms, untreated wastewater was discharged into the river, causing it to fail tests on multiple occasions.

Of the 11 days of events and training scheduled in the Seine, only five received approval. Paris 2024 organizers maintain that the levels of E.Coli and enterococci, the two bacteria monitored by health authorities and sports federations, were acceptable during the outdoor swimming events.

Paris Mayor Anne Hidalgo plans to open three public bathing spots in the river next year as part of the Olympic legacy. “If like 99 percent of the athletes don’t have any problems, I think it’s fine,” said German triathlete Tim Hellwig after winning the mixed relay event.

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