Manu Bhaker to Carry India's Flag at Paris Olympics 2024 Closing Ceremony

Manu Bhaker to Carry India’s Flag at Paris Olympics 2024 Closing Ceremony

Ace Indian shooter Manu Bhaker has been bestowed the honor of being India’s flag bearer at the closing ceremony of the Paris Olympics 2024. The 22-year-old markswoman etched her name in Indian sporting history by securing two bronze medals in Paris.

Bhaker’s remarkable journey began with a bronze in the individual 10m air pistol event, making her the first Indian woman shooter to win an Olympic medal. She broke India’s 12-year medal drought in shooting, following Vijay Kumar and Gagan Narang’s podium finishes in London 2012.

Not content with one medal, Bhaker teamed up with Sarabjot Singh to clinch another bronze in the 10m air pistol mixed team event. This achievement made her the first Indian woman to win multiple medals at a single Olympic Games.

“Manu has been chosen to be the flag bearer. She has done exceptionally well and deserves the honor,” an IOA official confirmed to PTI.

Bhaker expressed her gratitude for the recognition, stating, “There are many in the contingent who are more deserving, but it will be a real honor if I am asked to.”

The Indian Olympic Association (IOA) has yet to finalize the male flag bearer, with the decision expected in the coming days.

Besides Bhaker’s two medals, Swapnil Kushale added a third bronze for India in the men’s 50m Rifle Three Positions. Ace shuttler Lakshya Sen will compete for bronze on Monday, while the Indian men’s hockey team advanced to the semi-finals after defeating Great Britain on penalties.

Reigning Olympic champion Neeraj Chopra will commence his javelin throw campaign on August 6.

In the opening ceremony, star shuttler PV Sindhu and veteran table tennis player Sharath Kamal led the Indian contingent as flag bearers in the Parade of Nations.

PCB Unveils Major Domestic Cricket Overhaul with New Champions Tournaments

PCB Unveils Major Domestic Cricket Overhaul with New Champions Tournaments

The Pakistan Cricket Board (PCB) has unveiled a comprehensive overhaul of its domestic cricket structure, introducing three new competitions and significantly enhancing player contracts and match fees. The ambitious plan aims to bridge the gap between domestic and international cricket and elevate Pakistan’s standing in the global cricketing landscape.

The centerpiece of the new structure is the Champions tournament, a five-team competition that will span across formats. The Dolphins, Lions, Panthers, Stallions, and Wolves will compete in the Champions One-Day Cup, Champions T20 Cup, and Champions Pentagular (first-class cricket). The tournaments will run from September 2024 to August 2025, effectively extending the domestic season by almost a year.

PCB Chairman Mohsin Naqvi emphasized the need for innovation and strategic enhancements to restore Pakistan’s cricketing prowess. He believes that the Champions tournaments will create an environment that mirrors the intensity of international cricket, fostering the development of top-tier players.

The Champions tournaments will feature around 150 of Pakistan’s most talented and consistent domestic performers, including centrally-contracted players. The selection process remains to be determined, but the plan has received the endorsement of Waqar Younis, the newly appointed advisor to the chair on cricket affairs.

Each of the five teams will have a potential owner and mentor, in addition to a dedicated high-performance center and a full complement of coaching staff. The PCB has also raised domestic player contracts, with Category 1 players now earning PKR 550,000, Category 2 players earning PKR 400,000, and Category 3 players earning PKR 250,000.

Match fees have also been increased significantly, with white-ball matches now paying PKR 125,000 (50-over cricket) and PKR 100,000 (T20 cricket), while red-ball matches will pay PKR 200,000.

The PCB’s bold initiative aims to create a more competitive and rewarding domestic cricket environment, fostering the development of world-class players and ultimately elevating Pakistan’s standing in international cricket.

Rahul Dravid Graces TNPL Final, Shares Fond Memories of Chepauk

Rahul Dravid Graces TNPL Final, Shares Fond Memories of Chepauk

Rahul Dravid, the former head coach of Team India, recently attended the Tamil Nadu Premier League (TNPL) 2024 final between Lyca Kovai Kings and Dindigul Dragons at the iconic MA Chidambaram Stadium in Chennai. Dravid, who guided India to a historic T20 World Cup triumph in 2023, was warmly welcomed by the crowd and shared his fond memories of playing at Chepauk.

In an interview with a presenter, Dravid expressed his delight at being back at the ground where he had achieved several milestones in his illustrious career. He recalled playing league cricket with friends, scoring his 10,000th Test run, and winning a World Cup match against Australia at Chepauk.

Dravid also spoke about his association with the Tamil Nadu Cricket Association (TNCA) and the impact of playing league cricket in Chennai on his development as a cricketer. He praised the TNPL for providing opportunities to young players and creating a platform for them to showcase their talent.

“These leagues like TNPL, KPL, have been terrific as they provide a lot of great opportunities to so many young people,” Dravid said. “Look at this kind of crowd, for these young boys to be able to play in front of this crowd I think it’s just phenomenal and it really gives them a great boost.”

Dravid also acknowledged the contributions of veteran players like Ravichandran Ashwin, who led the Dindigul Dragons to victory in the TNPL final. He praised Ashwin for his continued excellence and his ability to inspire young players.

Dravid’s presence at the TNPL final underlined his commitment to the development of cricket in India. His insights and encouragement will undoubtedly motivate the young players who aspire to follow in his footsteps.

India's Tied ODI Against Sri Lanka: Super Over Controversy

India’s Tied ODI Against Sri Lanka: Super Over Controversy

India’s Tied ODI Against Sri Lanka: Why No Super Over?

The Indian cricket team’s recent tied ODI against Sri Lanka has raised questions about the absence of a Super Over. Despite the scores being level at the end of regulation play, the match was declared a tie, sparking confusion among fans and experts alike.

According to the International Cricket Council’s (ICC) playing conditions, a Super Over is mandatory in case of a tie in 50-over matches. However, in the first ODI against Sri Lanka, on-field umpires Joel Wilson and Raveendra Wimalasiri opted against a Super Over, leaving the match as a tie.

The ICC has not yet commented on the matter, nor has the Indian team management. However, a report in Cricbuzz suggests that the umpires made the decision based on the playing conditions, which state that a Super Over may be omitted if “exceptional circumstances” arise.

The absence of a Super Over has been met with mixed reactions. Some argue that it deprived India of a potential victory, while others believe that the tie was a fair result given the challenging conditions.

The match itself was a low-scoring thriller, with India chasing a target of 231. Skipper Rohit Sharma played a brilliant knock of 58 off 47 balls, but the rest of the Indian batting lineup struggled against Sri Lanka’s spin attack.

Charith Asalanka played a crucial role for Sri Lanka, taking two wickets in quick succession to level the scores. The match eventually ended in a tie, marking the 44th such occurrence in ODI history.

The absence of a Super Over in the first ODI against Sri Lanka has highlighted the need for clarity in the ICC’s playing conditions. It remains to be seen whether the ICC will address this issue in the future to ensure consistency in the application of the rules.

Former England Batsman Graham Thorpe Passes Away at 55

Former England Batsman Graham Thorpe Passes Away at 55

Graham Thorpe: A Legacy of Excellence and Inspiration

The cricket world is mourning the untimely passing of former England batsman Graham Thorpe, who passed away at the age of 55. Thorpe’s illustrious career spanned 13 years, during which he represented England in 100 Tests and 82 One-Day Internationals.

As a batsman, Thorpe was renowned for his exceptional skill and unwavering determination. He amassed 6,744 Test runs, including 16 centuries, with an impressive average of 44.66. His ability to adapt to different conditions and play with both finesse and power made him a formidable opponent.

Beyond his batting prowess, Thorpe was also a respected coach. He played a pivotal role in guiding England’s men’s team to numerous victories across all formats of the game. His expertise and mentorship helped shape the careers of some of England’s most talented players.

The England and Wales Cricket Board (ECB) expressed their profound shock and sadness at Thorpe’s passing. “There seem to be no appropriate words to describe the deep shock we feel at Graham’s death,” said an ECB statement. “More than one of England’s finest-ever batters, he was a beloved member of the cricket family and revered by fans all over the world.”

Thorpe’s legacy extends far beyond his statistics and achievements. He was a true ambassador for the sport, inspiring countless young cricketers with his passion and dedication. His untimely demise is a significant loss to the cricket community and will be deeply felt by all who knew and admired him.

India's Wrestling Contingent Ready for Paris 2024 Challenge

India’s Wrestling Contingent Ready for Paris 2024 Challenge

India’s wrestling contingent is poised to embark on their quest for Olympic glory at the upcoming Paris 2024 Games. Six Indian wrestlers, including one male and five females, will represent the nation at the Champ de Mars Arena in the French capital.

Aman Sehrawat, the 20-year-old Asian champion and Asian Games bronze medalist, will carry India’s hopes in the men’s freestyle 57kg category. Sehrawat, who replaced Ravi Kumar Dahiya in the category, is known for his ability to withstand pressure and keep opponents at bay.

In the women’s division, all eyes will be on two-time Olympian Vinesh Phogat, who will compete in the 50kg category. Phogat, India’s most accomplished female wrestler, has won two World Championships, three Commonwealth Games, and eight Asian Championships medals. However, she is yet to prove her worth on the Olympic stage, having suffered a freak injury in Rio 2016 and a crushing defeat in Tokyo 2020.

Other Indian wrestlers to watch out for include Commonwealth Games silver medalist Anshu Malik (women’s 57kg), U-23 world champion Reetika Hooda (women’s 76kg), and Asian Championships silver medalist Nisha Dahiya (women’s 68kg). All three will be making their Olympic debuts in Paris.

India’s wrestling schedule at the 2024 Paris Olympics is as follows:

* August 5 (6:30 PM IST): Women’s 68kg (Nisha Dahiya)
* August 6 (3:00 PM IST): Women’s 50kg (Vinesh Phogat)
* August 7 (3:00 PM IST): Women’s 53kg (Antim Panghal)
* August 8 (3:00 PM IST): Men’s freestyle 57kg (Aman Sehrawat), Women’s 57kg (Anshu Malik)
* August 10 (3:00 PM IST): Women’s 76kg (Reetika Hooda)

The Indian wrestlers will face stiff competition from the likes of the United States, Russia, Japan, and Iran. However, they will be determined to make their mark on the Olympic stage and bring glory to their nation.

Femke Bol: The Dutch Sprinter with the “Mickey Mouse” Voice and Olympic Gold

Femke Bol, the Dutch sprinter, has become an internet sensation after her stunning performance in the 4×400 mixed relay at the Tokyo Olympics. Bol’s impressive final lap propelled the Netherlands to victory, overtaking the heavily favored US team.

Bol’s rise to fame was not only due to her athletic prowess but also her unique voice, which has been compared to that of Mickey Mouse. The internet erupted with memes and trends after her post-race interview, where her high-pitched voice caught the attention of social media users.

However, the “Mickey Mouse” voice heard in the viral interview was not from the Olympics but from the World Indoor Championships in Glasgow earlier this year, where Bol set the indoor 400 meters world record.

Despite the speculation surrounding her voice, Bol’s athletic achievements are undeniable. She has consistently broken records and won medals at major competitions. In Tokyo, she not only anchored the Netherlands to victory in the 4×400 mixed relay but also finished fourth in the women’s 400 meters individual event.

Bol’s victory over the US team was particularly significant as the Americans had set the world record the night before and were expected to win easily. However, Bol’s determination and impressive anchor leg proved too much for the US runners.

The Netherlands’ victory was a historic moment for the small country, and Bol’s performance will be remembered for years to come. Her unique voice may have added to her popularity, but it is her athleticism and competitive spirit that have made her a true star.

Manu Bhaker Makes History with Olympic Shooting Medals

Manu Bhaker Makes History with Olympic Shooting Medals

Manu Bhaker, India’s shooting sensation, has made history by becoming the first Indian woman to win a shooting medal at the Olympics. Her bronze medals in the women’s 10m air pistol and 10m air pistol mixed team events at the ongoing Paris Olympics 2024 have opened India’s medal count and brought immense pride to the nation.

The 22-year-old from Haryana’s Jhajjar district has been on a remarkable journey, dedicating eight and a half years to her sport. Her unwavering commitment and hard work have paid off, culminating in this historic achievement. Bhaker’s success is not only a personal triumph but also a testament to the dedication and support of her team, including her coach, family, and countless others who have believed in her.

Despite the sacrifices she has made, including being away from her family for extended periods, Bhaker remains grounded and grateful for the love and support she has received. Her social media following has skyrocketed to over 1 million on Instagram, and she has been lauded by legends like PV Sindhu and Prime Minister Narendra Modi.

Bhaker’s victory is a reminder of the power of perseverance and the importance of believing in oneself. She has faced challenges and setbacks along the way, but her determination has never wavered. Her success is an inspiration to aspiring athletes and a source of pride for all Indians.

As she sets her sights on the LA Olympics 2028, Bhaker remains focused on her goals. Her rigorous training routine and unwavering commitment will undoubtedly lead her to even greater heights. Her journey is a testament to the indomitable spirit of Indian athletes and the transformative power of sport.

Iyer's Stunning Run Out Seals India's Victory in Second ODI Against Sri Lanka

Iyer’s Stunning Run Out Seals India’s Victory in Second ODI Against Sri Lanka

India’s Stunning Run Out Seals Victory in Second ODI Against Sri Lanka

In a thrilling encounter at Colombo’s R. Premadasa Stadium, India’s Shreyas Iyer pulled off a remarkable run out to secure a 32-run victory over Sri Lanka in the second ODI. The hosts had set a target of 241, but India’s batting lineup faltered, collapsing to 208 all out in 42.2 overs.

The match-winning moment came in the final over of Sri Lanka’s innings. With the hosts needing quick runs, Kamindu Mendis attempted a pull shot off Arshdeep Singh’s penultimate delivery. The ball flew high into the air, and Mendis scrambled for a run.

Iyer, fielding at deep mid-wicket, collected the ball on the bounce and unleashed a lightning-fast throw towards the striker’s end. The ball traveled with pinpoint accuracy, dislodging the bails without a bounce. Mendis, caught short of his crease, was left stunned as he walked away without even appealing to the umpire.

Iyer’s stunning throw not only sealed the victory for India but also highlighted the importance of fielding in cricket. A well-executed run out can often turn the tide of a match, and Iyer’s effort was a prime example of this.

Despite the victory, India’s batting performance was a cause for concern. The top order failed to fire, with Rohit Sharma, Virat Kohli, and Shikhar Dhawan all falling cheaply. Only Suryakumar Yadav (53) and Deepak Chahar (38) offered any resistance.

Sri Lanka’s bowlers, led by Wanindu Hasaranga (3/37) and Maheesh Theekshana (3/45), exploited the Indian batsmen’s weaknesses, bowling with accuracy and variation.

With the series tied at 1-1, the third and final ODI will be a crucial encounter. India will need to improve their batting performance, while Sri Lanka will look to build on their momentum and secure a series victory.

Biles Targets Two More Golds as Duplantis Eyes World Record

Biles Targets Two More Golds as Duplantis Eyes World Record

Simone Biles, the legendary gymnast, is poised to add two more Olympic gold medals to her illustrious career at the Paris Games. After claiming her third gold in the vault, Biles is now targeting victories in the balance beam and floor exercises. Her remarkable achievements come after overcoming the mental health challenges that plagued her in Tokyo.

Biles’s dominance in gymnastics is undeniable. She has won seven Olympic golds, making her the most decorated American gymnast in history. Her resilience and determination have inspired countless athletes and fans worldwide.

Another star to watch is Armand Duplantis, the Swedish pole vault king. Duplantis has set eight world records and is aiming for another in Paris. His dominance in the event has been unparalleled for the past five years.

The Paris Games also feature Sifan Hassan, the Dutch runner who is chasing a golden treble in the 5,000m, 10,000m, and marathon. Hassan is a formidable competitor and will face stiff competition from Kenya’s Faith Kipyegon.

Track cycling makes its debut at the National Velodrome, with the first gold medal up for grabs in the women’s team sprint. Britain, a powerhouse in cycling, will be looking to continue its dominance despite the absence of retired stars Laura and Jason Kenny.

The badminton competition concludes with the finals of the men’s and women’s singles. China’s He Bingjiao will face South Korea’s An Se-young for women’s gold, while defending men’s champion Viktor Alexsen of Denmark will take on Thailand’s Kunlavut Vitidsarn.

In football, the semi-finals will see Morocco face Spain and France take on Egypt. The mixed relay in the triathlon will also take place, after pollution levels in the River Seine were deemed acceptable for the swimming leg.

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