Hassan Sardar Backs India to Win Olympic Hockey Gold in Paris

Hassan Sardar Backs India to Win Olympic Hockey Gold in Paris

Legendary Pakistani hockey player Hassan Sardar has expressed his belief that Team India has the potential to end their long wait for an Olympic gold medal at the Paris Games 2024. India’s impressive performance in the ongoing Summer Games, where they defeated Great Britain in a thrilling shootout to enter the semi-finals, has caught the attention of Sardar.

India’s last Olympic gold medal in hockey came at the 1980 Moscow Games, and they will be hoping to break their drought in Paris. Sardar, who played a key role in leading Pakistan to a gold medal at the 1984 LA Olympics, believes that the current Indian team has the talent and determination to achieve success.

“I always support India when Pakistan is not playing cricket or hockey,” Sardar said. “It’s a much better side and one of the best Indian teams I have seen. They have improved a lot and they are giving hard times to the Europeans. They (India) can win and they should win this Olympics.”

Sardar praised India’s performance against Australia in the group stage, highlighting their mental strength and ability to adapt to different situations. He also shared some valuable advice for the Harmanpreet-led side ahead of their semi-final clash against Germany.

“When we won the Asian gold against India, we only focused on taking the lead and doubling it,” Sardar said. “Both teams played well but we were lucky that we could score so many goals. Mental strength is the most important aspect in crucial matches. The Germans are a tough team.”

Sardar emphasized the importance of short passes, preventing counter-attacks, and scoring from penalty corners against Germany. He also advised the Indian team to stay calm and play as a unit, even when things are not going their way.

India will be without key defender Amit Rohidas for the semi-final against Germany after his one-match suspension was upheld by the FIH. However, Sardar believes that the team has the depth and quality to overcome this setback.

Smriti Mandhana, Shafali Verma, and Chamari Athapaththu Nominated for ICC Women's Player of the Month Award

Smriti Mandhana, Shafali Verma, and Chamari Athapaththu Nominated for ICC Women’s Player of the Month Award

Smriti Mandhana, Shafali Verma, and Chamari Athapaththu have been nominated for the ICC Women’s Player of the Month award for July 2024.

Smriti Mandhana, India’s vice-captain, is aiming for back-to-back success after winning the award in June. In July, she scored 273 runs in T20Is at an average of 68.25 and a strike rate of 139.28. She began with a career-best 149 in the one-off Test against South Africa, setting a record partnership with Shafali Verma. She also scored 100 runs in the T20I series against South Africa and 173 runs in the Women’s Asia Cup.

Shafali Verma, India’s opening batter, scored 229 Test runs and 245 T20I runs in July. She became the second Indian woman to hit a double century in Tests, reaching the milestone in 194 balls, the fastest ever in Women’s Tests. She also scored 205 in the first innings, the highest score for India in their record-breaking total of 603/6. In the T20I series against South Africa, she scored 45 runs, and in the Women’s Asia Cup, she was the second-highest run-getter with 200 runs at a strike rate of 140.84.

Chamari Athapaththu, Sri Lanka’s skipper, led her team to victory in the Women’s Asia Cup on home soil. She scored 304 runs during the competition at an average of 101.33 and a strike rate of 146.85. Her standout performances included an unbeaten 119 against Malaysia and two crucial half-centuries in the knockout stages.

The ICC Women’s Player of the Month award for July 2024 will be announced soon.

Afghanistan's Rahmanullah Gurbaz Signs for Pretoria Capitals in SA20 2025

Afghanistan’s Rahmanullah Gurbaz Signs for Pretoria Capitals in SA20 2025

Pretoria Capitals, the South African franchise in the SA20 league, have bolstered their squad for the 2025 season by signing Afghanistan’s explosive wicketkeeper-batter Rahmanullah Gurbaz. The 22-year-old will reunite with Jonathan Trott, who was recently appointed as Capitals’ head coach after guiding Afghanistan to their maiden World Cup semi-final earlier this year.

Gurbaz, a T20 globetrotter, brings a wealth of experience to the Capitals. He has played for various franchises around the world, including the Dubai Capitals in the ILT20, where he scored 146 runs in eight innings. He also has IPL experience, having won the title with Kolkata Knight Riders in 2023.

Gurbaz’s T20I form is equally impressive. He was the leading run-scorer in the 2024 T20 World Cup, amassing 281 runs in eight innings at an average of 35.12 and a strike rate of 124.33. His aggressive batting style and ability to clear the boundary with ease make him a valuable asset to any team.

Gurbaz will join a star-studded Capitals squad that includes Wayne Parnell, Will Jacks, Rilee Rossouw, Jimmy Neesham, Anrich Nortje, and Ollie Pope. With such a formidable lineup, the Capitals will be among the favorites to lift the SA20 trophy in 2025.

Sundar, Atkinson, Cassell Nominated for ICC Player of the Month Award

Sundar, Atkinson, Cassell Nominated for ICC Player of the Month Award

Washington Sundar, the Indian all-rounder, has been nominated for the ICC Player of the Month Award for July, alongside England’s Gus Atkinson and Scotland’s Charlie Cassell. Sundar’s nomination is a testament to his recent performances, which have seen him establish himself as a key player for India.

Sundar’s journey to international recognition has been marked by perseverance and resilience. After battling injuries and spending years on the fringes of the Indian team, he finally broke through in Zimbabwe during a five-match T20I series. With the regular players rested, Sundar seized the opportunity and emerged as the team’s leading spin-bowling all-rounder.

In the first T20I, Sundar impressed with bowling figures of 2/11 and a valuable contribution of 27 runs. He played a crucial role in India’s comeback, helping them turn a 1-0 deficit into a 4-1 series victory. He took six more wickets in the remaining four matches and was named Player of the Match in the third game for his outstanding figures of 3/15. Sundar finished the series as the joint-highest wicket-taker with eight scalps.

Sundar’s impressive form continued in the subsequent series against Sri Lanka, where he earned the Player of the Match award in the only match he played. In a thrilling Super Over, he showcased his all-around abilities.

Meanwhile, Gus Atkinson made a sensational Test debut for England at Lord’s, taking 12 wickets in the match. He bagged a five-wicket haul in each innings, including a remarkable 7/45 in the first innings. Atkinson’s heroics helped England secure an innings victory by 114 runs.

Charlie Cassell, on the other hand, made a record-breaking ODI debut for Scotland against Oman. He claimed a seven-wicket haul (7/21), breaking Kagiso Rabada’s nine-year-old record for the best bowling figures on ODI debut. Cassell’s dream start included two wickets off his first two deliveries in international cricket. His performance ranked as the 7th-best bowling figures in ODI history.

Olympic Tennis: Unforgettable Moments and Unexpected Heroes in Paris

Olympic Tennis: Unforgettable Moments and Unexpected Heroes in Paris

The Olympic Games are a spectacle of athleticism and national pride, where athletes from around the world compete for the ultimate glory of a gold medal. Tennis, a sport that demands both physical prowess and mental fortitude, is no exception to this Olympic fervor.

The 2024 Olympic Games in Paris witnessed a plethora of unforgettable moments, from the jubilation of Italy’s Sara Errani and Jasmine Paolini to the career-defining triumph of Novak Djokovic. The pressure of Olympic tennis is unique, leveling the playing field and giving rise to unexpected heroes.

Errani and Paolini, diminutive in stature but not in spirit, defied expectations to capture the women’s doubles gold medal. Their ecstatic celebration after match point was a testament to the unbridled joy that the Olympics can evoke. Djokovic, the seasoned veteran, added the Olympic singles gold to his illustrious resume, overcoming injury and age to produce a near-perfect performance.

Tommy Paul and Taylor Fritz carried the mantle for the United States, playing a remarkable 19 matches combined. Paul’s sharp play earned him a quarterfinal berth in singles, while he and Fritz secured the bronze medal in doubles. Zheng Qinwen became the first Chinese player to win a singles gold medal, overcoming adversity and delivering a stunning upset over Iga Swiatek.

Felix Auger-Aliassime made history as the first Canadian to reach the singles medal round, while Donna Vekic of Croatia emerged as an unlikely finalist. Andy Murray, in the twilight of his career, bowed out with a heroic performance alongside Dan Evans, fighting valiantly against Fritz and Paul.

Anna Karolina Schmiedlova, despite not medaling, left an indelible mark with her spirited performances, including an epic win over Jasmine Paolini. Rajeev Ram and Austin Krajicek experienced both the heartbreak and joy of Olympic competition, narrowly missing out on the gold medal in doubles.

Marta Kostyuk, the highest-ranking Ukrainian, represented her war-torn nation with pride, reaching the quarterfinals. The Kichenok sisters, Lyudmyla and Nadiia, also played with inspiration, falling just short of the medal round.

The Olympics, with its unique blend of patriotism and athletic excellence, continues to captivate audiences worldwide. The 2024 Games in Paris showcased the indomitable spirit of athletes, the power of national pride, and the enduring legacy of the Olympic flame.

US Rowing Team Wins Historic Gold at Paris Olympics 2024

US Rowing Team Wins Historic Gold at Paris Olympics 2024

Justin Best, a 26-year-old investment analyst from Pennsylvania, has etched his name in history by becoming part of the first US team to win a rowing gold medal in the men’s four class at the Paris Olympics 2024 since 1960. The team’s victory over New Zealand and defending world champion Britain, with a time of 5:49.03, marked a significant milestone for US rowing.

Best’s LinkedIn profile swiftly reflected his Olympic triumph, with the addition of “Olympic Champion” to his bio alongside his role as Junior Analyst at Union Square Advisors. A graduate of Drexel University in business and engineering, Best has been employed at the San Francisco-based investment firm since November 2021.

Best’s dedication to both his investment banking career and competitive rowing is evident in his rigorous daily routine. He wakes at 5:30 am for training before commuting to his office via the Bay Area Rapid Transit train. After work, he returns to training at 5:30 pm, concluding his day by 8:30 pm.

The Olympic gold medal represents the culmination of a teenage dream for Best. Inspired by the film “The Social Network,” his parents enrolled him in a rowing summer camp, recognizing his potential in the sport. His first Olympic appearance was at the Tokyo Games in 2020.

Best’s success highlights the balance between athletic excellence and professional achievement. He credits his passion for the sectors covered in his investment banking role, finding excitement in the metrics and technology of the companies he analyzes.

Neeraj Chopra Ready to Defend Olympic Title at Paris Games 2024

Neeraj Chopra Ready to Defend Olympic Title at Paris Games 2024

Neeraj Chopra, India’s golden boy in athletics, is poised to defend his Olympic title at the Paris Games 2024. The reigning Olympic champion arrived in Paris last month, ready to make his mark on the world stage once again.

Chopra is an integral part of the 29-member Indian athletics contingent at the Summer Games. The Indian team will be hoping to add to the nation’s medal tally in the 16 athletics events at the Paris Olympics.

Athletics events at the Summer Olympics commenced on August 1, with all track and field events taking place at the iconic Stade de France in Paris. Chopra will be joined by Kishore Jena in the men’s javelin competition. Jena won a silver medal for India at the Hangzhou Asian Games last year, finishing behind Chopra.

Chopra’s journey to the Paris Olympics has been marked by remarkable achievements. He won India’s first-ever Olympic gold in athletics at the Tokyo Games, followed by the Diamond League title in 2022 and the Asian Games gold medal in 2023.

The reigning world champion in javelin throw is set to kickstart his campaign at the Paris Games 2024 this week. Chopra will headline the javelin throw event on Tuesday (August 6), with the qualification round getting underway at 1:50 pm. The Group A action will be followed by Group B at 3:20 pm on the same day.

If Chopra advances from the qualification round, he will defend his gold medal in the final. The men’s final of the javelin throw is scheduled to begin at 11:55 pm IST on August 8 (Sunday). Chopra and Jena will lead India’s charge in the summit clash.

Indian fans can watch the live broadcast of the Paris Olympics 2024 on multiple channels of the Sports18 Network. Sports18 1 and Sports18 1 HD are broadcasting the Paris Olympics in English, while Tamil and Telugu options are also available. Sports18 Khel and Sports18 2 are presenting the Summer games in Hindi.

The Paris Olympics 2024 is also available for a livestream on the JioCinema app and website. Fans can watch the live stream of multiple events free of cost in India.

Ukrainian High Jumper Mahuchikh Wins Gold with Unique Bedroll Routine

Ukrainian High Jumper Mahuchikh Wins Gold with Unique Bedroll Routine

Ukrainian high jumper Yaroslava Mahuchikh, the world record holder, has captured Olympic gold at the Stade de France with her unique habit of lying under a green bedroll between jumps. This intriguing method has sparked curiosity and admiration worldwide.

Mahuchikh’s unusual routine, which involves counting numbers or watching clouds while lying down, has become a signature part of her preparation. She began this practice in 2018 after winning the Youth Olympic Games. “I feel comfortable when I lay and sometimes I can watch the clouds,” she explained to TIME Magazine. “It’s like, relax, [and] not think about that I’m at [the] stadium.”

Her coach, Serhii Stepanov, believes the bedroll helps prevent blood from pooling in her legs. Mahuchikh always carries a yoga mat, sleeping bag, and spare socks to competitions, or wears a hoodie. She recommends this approach for comfort in various weather conditions.

“It’s really difficult [to wear spikes],” she said in a press conference. “But I advise all girls to have this mat and blanket because it’s really comfortable to lay on in different weather. When it’s raining, it’s OK. It never gets hot because it’s a camping blanket.”

Beyond her unique relaxation technique, Mahuchikh’s victory holds deep emotional significance. She fled Ukraine due to the ongoing Russian invasion, which has claimed the lives of nearly 500 Ukrainian athletes. “Almost 500 sportsmen have died in this war,” she said. “They will never compete. They will never celebrate. They will never fill this atmosphere. I’m happy with the gold medal. It’s really for all of them.”

Australia’s Nicola Olyslagers won the silver medal in the high jump, while Eleanor Patterson of Australia and Ukraine’s Iryna Gerashchenko shared the bronze.

Mahuchikh’s gold medal is a testament to her resilience, determination, and the power of finding comfort in unconventional ways. Her unique bedroll routine has not only helped her achieve Olympic glory but has also inspired countless others to embrace their own unique paths to success.

ICC Champions Trophy Fate Uncertain Amid India-Pakistan Standoff

ICC Champions Trophy Fate Uncertain Amid India-Pakistan Standoff

The fate of the ICC Champions Trophy remains uncertain as the Pakistan Cricket Board (PCB) and the Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI) remain at loggerheads over the tournament’s hosting. Pakistan is adamant about hosting the entire event at home, while India is unwilling to send its team across the border.

The BCCI has proposed that India’s matches be held in the United Arab Emirates (UAE) or Sri Lanka. Pakistan has countered with a proposal to host all of India’s matches in Lahore. However, no resolution has been reached, and the ICC has reportedly prepared a contingency plan in case India refuses to travel to Pakistan.

According to a report in Cricbuzz, the ICC’s Chief Executives Committee (CEC) has approved a budget for the tournament, including an estimate of the increased costs if matches need to be played outside Pakistan. The ICC has also shared a draft schedule with stakeholders, including broadcasters and participating teams.

In the draft schedule, all of India’s matches are set to be held in Lahore, including the high-profile India-Pakistan match scheduled for March 1. However, this schedule is subject to change if India does not agree to travel to Pakistan.

The ICC has allocated $35 million for the tournament itself, $20 million for participation and prize money, and $10 million for production costs. The tournament is scheduled to feature 15 matches over 20 days.

The deadlock between the PCB and BCCI has cast a shadow over the tournament, and it remains to be seen whether a compromise can be reached. If India does not agree to travel to Pakistan, the ICC will have to implement its contingency plan and find alternative venues for India’s matches.

Neeraj Chopra Eyes History with Second Olympic Javelin Gold

Neeraj Chopra Eyes History with Second Olympic Javelin Gold

Neeraj Chopra, the trailblazing Indian javelin thrower, is poised to make history once again as he sets his sights on a second Olympic gold medal in Tokyo. His remarkable consistency will be put to the test after a season marred by a nagging adductor injury.

Chopra’s Olympic journey begins on Tuesday with the qualification round, where he is expected to secure a spot in the finals on August 8. A podium finish would make him only the fifth man in Olympic history to defend his javelin title and the first Indian to win two gold medals in an individual event at the Games.

Eric Lemming (Sweden), Jonni Myyra (Finland), Jan Zelezny (Czech Republic), and Andreas Thorkildsen (Norway) are the only athletes to have successfully defended their Olympic javelin gold medals. Chopra, who idolizes Zelezny, will be eager to join this elite group.

Despite competing in just three events this year, the 26-year-old world champion is back in top form. After finishing second in the Doha Diamond League with a season-best throw of 88.36m, Chopra withdrew from the Ostrava Golden Spike as a precautionary measure due to an adductor issue.

He made a strong comeback by winning gold at the Paavo Nurmi Games in Finland with a throw of 85.97m. Chopra later opted out of the Paris Diamond League, emphasizing that it was not part of his competition schedule.

His coach has dismissed concerns about Chopra’s fitness, stating that his adductor is now fully recovered and that he has been training at high intensity. Chopra’s consistency is evident in his record of sending his spear below 85m only twice in 15 competitions since his Tokyo Olympics triumph.

Chopra’s main rivals include Tokyo Olympics silver medalist Jakub Vadlejch (Czech Republic), Germany’s Julian Weber, and former world champion Anderson Peters. Kishore Jena is the other Indian competing in the men’s javelin, but he has struggled to cross the 80m mark since qualifying for the Olympics with an 87.54m throw at the Asian Games last year.

Chopra’s performance is expected to boost the morale of the Indian athletics contingent, which has yet to make a significant impact at the Tokyo Games.

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