61-Year-Old Table Tennis Legend Xia Lian Ni Makes History at Paris Olympics

61-Year-Old Table Tennis Legend Xia Lian Ni Makes History at Paris Olympics

Xia Lian Ni, the 61-year-old table tennis legend from Luxembourg, continues to defy age at the Paris 2024 Olympics. As the oldest competitor in her event, she has already made history by becoming the oldest player to record a win at the Games.

Xia Lian’s journey to the Olympics has been remarkable. Born in Shanghai, China, she represented her country and won gold medals in various mixed and individual events. However, she retired early and moved to Europe, where she resumed her table tennis career.

In 2000, at the age of 37, Xia Lian made her Olympic debut. Since then, she has qualified for every subsequent Games. At the Tokyo 2020 Olympics, she became the oldest Olympian to play table tennis.

Xia Lian’s longevity and success are attributed to her unwavering determination and rigorous training regimen. She trains for several hours each day, focusing on both physical and mental aspects of the game. Her husband, Tommy Danielsson, a former Swedish table tennis player, serves as her coach and training partner.

Despite her age, Xia Lian remains competitive against opponents who are half her age. Her experience and tactical acumen allow her to overcome physical limitations. She is known for her exceptional footwork, quick reflexes, and ability to anticipate her opponents’ moves.

Xia Lian’s participation in the Paris Olympics is not only a testament to her athleticism but also an inspiration to athletes of all ages. She proves that age is just a number and that with hard work and dedication, anything is possible.

On Wednesday, July 31, Xia Lian will face No. 1 seeded Sun Yingsha of China in the round of 32. While she acknowledges the challenge, she remains optimistic and determined to give her best performance.

Charith Asalanka Appointed Sri Lanka's New ODI Captain for India Series

Charith Asalanka Appointed Sri Lanka’s New ODI Captain for India Series

Sri Lanka’s cricket selectors have made a significant change in leadership, appointing Charith Asalanka as the new ODI captain for the upcoming three-match series against India in August. This move comes after Kusal Mendis, who had been leading the team in ODIs since December 2022, was replaced.

Asalanka’s appointment as ODI captain is a continuation of his recent elevation to the T20I captaincy, following Wanindu Hasaranga’s resignation after Sri Lanka’s disappointing exit from the 2024 T20 World Cup. The selectors’ decision to appoint Asalanka in both formats reflects their confidence in his leadership abilities and their desire for a fresh approach.

Mendis’ tenure as ODI captain was marked by mixed results. While Sri Lanka won six of the eight completed ODIs under his leadership, including five consecutive home victories against Afghanistan and Zimbabwe, they suffered a 2-1 defeat away to Bangladesh. Despite Mendis’ strong batting form, the selectors opted for a change in direction.

The upcoming ODI series against India will be a major test for Asalanka’s captaincy. India is a formidable opponent, and Sri Lanka will need to perform at their best to compete. The series will also provide an opportunity for Asalanka to establish himself as a long-term leader for Sri Lanka.

The Sri Lankan squad for the ODI series against India includes a mix of experienced players and rising stars. Pathum Nissanka, Avishka Fernando, and Wanindu Hasaranga are among the key players to watch, while young talents such as Nishan Madushka and Matheesha Pathirana will be eager to make an impact.

Coco Gauff's Olympic Singles Dream Ends in Third Round Defeat

Coco Gauff’s Olympic Singles Dream Ends in Third Round Defeat

Coco Gauff’s Olympic singles debut ended in disappointment as she suffered a 7-6 (7), 6-2 defeat to Donna Vekic of Croatia in the third round of the Paris Olympics. The 20-year-old American, seeded second in the tournament, had won her first two matches comfortably but struggled against Vekic, who reached the Wimbledon semifinals earlier this month.

Gauff started well, taking a 4-1 lead in the opening set. However, she failed to close it out and Vekic fought back to win the tiebreaker 9-7. The Croatian continued her momentum in the second set, breaking Gauff’s serve twice to take a 4-2 lead. Gauff could not recover and Vekic sealed the victory in just over an hour and a half.

The match was marred by a heated argument between Gauff and chair umpire Jaume Campistol over a line call. With Gauff trailing 4-2 in the second set, she hit a serve that Vekic returned near the baseline. The line judge initially called the shot out, but Campistol overruled and awarded the point to Vekic.

Gauff was visibly upset and argued with the umpire for several minutes. She claimed that the ball had landed out and that she had not kept it in play. Campistol stood by his decision, and Gauff eventually resumed play.

Despite the controversy, Vekic played a solid match and deserved the victory. She hit 33 winners to Gauff’s nine and was more consistent throughout the match. Gauff, on the other hand, made too many unforced errors and struggled to find her rhythm.

The defeat ends Gauff’s hopes of winning an Olympic medal in singles. She is still competing in women’s doubles and mixed doubles, but her performance in the singles tournament will be a disappointment.

Bangladesh A to Play Pakistan A in Four-Day and One-Day Matches

Bangladesh A to Play Pakistan A in Four-Day and One-Day Matches

Bangladesh A, the second-string national cricket team, will embark on a tour of Pakistan next month, featuring two four-day matches and three one-day matches against Pakistan A. The tour will run concurrently with the Bangladesh senior men’s Test tour of Pakistan, which begins on August 21.

The first four-day match will be held from August 10 to 13 in Islamabad, with the second scheduled from August 17 to 20. Mushfiqur Rahim and Mominul Haque, two experienced Test players, will feature in the first four-day match alongside Mahmudul Hasan Joy, Zakir Hasan, Nayeem Hasan, and Hasan Mahmud.

For the second four-day match, Mohammad Naim, Saif Hassan, Soumya Sarkar, Jaker Ali, Towhid Hridoy, and Mohammad Saifuddin will replace the six players from the first game. Shahadat Hossain, Mahidul Islam, and Mosaddek Hossain will play in both four-day matches.

The one-day series will consist of three matches on August 23, 25, and 27. The squad for the one-day series includes Anamul Haque, Mohammad Naim, Saif Hassan, Soumya Sarkar, Towhid Hridoy, Mahidul Islam, Mosaddek Hossain, Jaker Ali, Rishad Hossain, Mahedi Hasan, Tanvir Islam, Mohammad Saifuddin, Tanzim Hasan Sakib, Rejaur Rahman Raja, and Ruyel Miah.

This tour marks the first time since the 2003-04 season that Bangladesh A will play first-class matches. The team will depart for Islamabad on August 6.

Neeraj Chopra Arrives in Paris Olympic Village, Ready to Defend Javelin Title

Neeraj Chopra Arrives in Paris Olympic Village, Ready to Defend Javelin Title

Neeraj Chopra, India’s reigning Olympic javelin throw champion, has arrived at the Paris Olympic Games village, marking a significant milestone in his quest to defend his title. The 26-year-old took to social media to share his excitement, posting a photo of himself in the village with the caption, “Namaskar, Paris! Excited to finally reach the Olympic Games village.”

Chopra’s arrival in Paris has been met with anticipation from both his fellow athletes and the Indian public. In Tokyo, he became the first track and field athlete to win an individual gold medal for India, etching his name in the annals of Indian sporting history. He is now poised to make another historic run at the podium in Paris.

Upon his arrival, Chopra penned an inspiring message for the Indian athletes on the ‘Wall of Positivity,’ a designated space in the village where athletes can share words of encouragement and motivation. “This is the time for the performance,” he wrote on a sticky note, pasted on the wall.

Chopra’s message reflects the determination and focus that has characterized his career. He has been training relentlessly for the Paris Games, honing his technique and pushing his limits. His arrival in the Olympic village marks the culmination of years of hard work and dedication.

The Indian contingent is eagerly awaiting Chopra’s performance in the Men’s Group A Javelin Throw Qualification Round, scheduled for August 6 at Stade de France. The countrymen are hoping for another podium finish for the star athlete, who has become a symbol of Indian sporting excellence.

Chopra’s presence in Paris is not only a testament to his individual brilliance but also a reflection of the growing strength of Indian athletics. The country has produced a number of talented athletes in recent years, and Chopra’s success has inspired a new generation of young athletes to pursue their dreams.

As the Paris Games draw near, Chopra’s arrival in the Olympic village has ignited a sense of excitement and anticipation among the Indian public. The nation will be watching with bated breath as he takes to the field, hoping to witness another historic moment in Indian sports.

Sunrisers Eastern Cape Strengthen Squad with Crawley, Overton, and van der Merwe

Sunrisers Eastern Cape Strengthen Squad with Crawley, Overton, and van der Merwe

Sunrisers Eastern Cape, the reigning SA20 champions, have bolstered their squad for the upcoming season with the signings of England batter Zak Crawley, fast bowler Craig Overton, and Netherlands allrounder Roelof van der Merwe.

Crawley, a mainstay in England’s Test team, will make his SA20 debut. Despite limited experience in the shortest format, he boasts an impressive T20 record with 1771 runs at a strike rate of 134.77. He aims to enhance his white-ball skills and add power to his game.

Van der Merwe, who played a pivotal role in Sunrisers’ title triumph last season, returns to the franchise. The left-arm spinner was the joint leading wicket-taker with 20 scalps and had an exceptional economy of 5.62. His match-winning performance in the final earned him the Player-of-the-Match award.

Overton, a 30-year-old fast-bowling allrounder, will make his overseas T20 league debut with Sunrisers. He has 106 T20 wickets to his name, averaging 26.21 with an economy rate of 8.56.

These signings add depth and experience to Sunrisers’ squad. Crawley’s batting prowess, van der Merwe’s spin wizardry, and Overton’s all-round abilities will be valuable assets in their quest to defend their title.

India Dominate Sri Lanka in T20I Series, Eyeing Clean Sweep

India Dominate Sri Lanka in T20I Series, Eyeing Clean Sweep

India’s dominance over Sri Lanka in the ongoing T20I series has been undeniable, with the visitors showcasing their superiority in every aspect of the game. Sri Lanka’s batting has been their Achilles’ heel, collapsing embarrassingly in the middle overs, while India have executed their plans with precision and confidence.

The series was effectively decided after India’s comprehensive victories in the first two matches, leaving Sri Lanka facing the prospect of a humiliating whitewash. In the second T20I, despite a promising start, Sri Lanka’s batting once again faltered, allowing India to secure a comfortable seven-wicket win.

India’s dominance extends beyond the scoreboard. They have displayed greater composure under pressure, adapting to different situations with ease. Their bowling attack has been relentless, restricting Sri Lanka’s batsmen and creating opportunities for wickets.

In contrast, Sri Lanka’s batting has been plagued by inconsistency and poor decision-making. Their middle order has failed to provide the necessary support, leading to frequent collapses. The team’s fielding has also been below par, allowing India to capitalize on their mistakes.

As the series concludes with the third and final T20I, India will be aiming to complete a clean sweep. Under the guidance of new coach Gautam Gambhir and captain Suryakumar Yadav, they will be relentless in their pursuit of victory. Sri Lanka, on the other hand, will be desperate to salvage some pride and avoid a humiliating whitewash.

Mandhana, Thakur Soar in ICC T20I Rankings After Asia Cup Triumph

Mandhana, Thakur Soar in ICC T20I Rankings After Asia Cup Triumph

Indian Cricketers Shine in ICC T20I Rankings After Asia Cup Triumph

India’s star cricketers Smriti Mandhana and Renuka Singh Thakur have made significant strides in the latest ICC T20I rankings, reflecting their exceptional performances in the recently concluded Women’s T20 Asia Cup.

Mandhana, India’s vice-captain and opening batter, has moved up to fourth place among batters with 743 rating points. Her crucial 60-run knock in the final against Sri Lanka played a pivotal role in India’s victory.

Thakur, a fast bowler, has ascended to fifth place among bowlers with 722 rating points. Her impressive performance in the Asia Cup, where she took seven wickets, pushed her up four places in the rankings. She now trails only England’s Sophie Ecclestone, Sarah Glenn, India’s Deepti Sharma, and Pakistan’s Sadia Iqbal.

Radha Yadav has also made notable progress, climbing seven places to 13th position. Her six wickets in the Asia Cup made her the fifth-highest wicket-taker in the tournament.

At the top of the batters’ rankings, Australia’s Beth Mooney and Tahlia McGrath continue to lead, with West Indies’ Hayley Matthews in third place. South Africa’s Laura Wolvaardt and Sri Lanka’s Chamari Athapaththu are ranked sixth and seventh, respectively.

Athapaththu, who was named Player of the Tournament, has made the biggest gain in the rankings, moving up three places to sixth with 705 points. Her exceptional performance in the final, where she scored 61 runs, earned her a career-best rating.

Other notable movements include Pakistan’s Muneeba Ali, who climbed six places to 35th among T20I batters, and Bangladesh’s captain Nigar Sultana, who moved up three positions to 14th. Sri Lanka’s Harshitha Samarawickrama reached the 20th position after top-scoring with 69 not out in the final.

These rankings highlight the remarkable talent and contributions of these players to their respective teams’ successes in the recent Women’s T20 Asia Cup.

Hardik Pandya Loses T20I Captaincy to Suryakumar Yadav Amid Fitness Concerns

Hardik Pandya Loses T20I Captaincy to Suryakumar Yadav Amid Fitness Concerns

Hardik Pandya’s sudden removal as India’s T20I captain and exclusion from the ODI squad has raised eyebrows. The decision, made by chief selector Ajit Agarkar, has been attributed to Pandya’s fitness concerns and limited availability.

Pandya, who led India to victory in the ICC T20 World Cup 2024, has been plagued by injuries, including an ankle issue during the 50-over World Cup last year. Despite his impressive performance in the T20 World Cup, scoring 144 runs and taking 11 wickets, Pandya’s fitness has become a concern.

Former India pacer Ashish Nehra expressed surprise at the decision, stating that Pandya’s fitness and limited match play could be factors. However, Nehra emphasized Pandya’s importance in India’s white-ball setup when fit.

Suryakumar Yadav, who has been appointed as India’s new T20I captain, shares a close bond with former KKR captain Gautam Gambhir. Gambhir, who showed faith in Suryakumar during their time together at KKR, may view him as a long-term captaincy prospect.

Nehra believes that Suryakumar’s captaincy will depend on his form, equation with the coach and selection committee, and the team’s performance. He also highlighted the transition in the Indian team after the World Cup win, with Rohit Sharma remaining as the main captain and Shubman Gill as his deputy.

Nehra expressed confidence in Suryakumar’s abilities under Gambhir’s guidance, citing their familiarity from their time at KKR. He also noted that other countries have successfully implemented multiple captains in different formats.

Matthew Mott Resigns as England Men's White-Ball Head Coach

Matthew Mott Resigns as England Men’s White-Ball Head Coach

Matthew Mott’s tenure as England Men’s white-ball head coach has come to an abrupt end, with the Australian stepping down with immediate effect. Mott’s departure marks a significant shift in the team’s leadership, following a disappointing performance at the recent T20 World Cup.

Appointed in May 2022, Mott’s tenure was marked by both triumph and disappointment. He guided England to a memorable T20 World Cup victory in 2022, but the team failed to defend their title this year, bowing out in the semi-finals. Additionally, England’s hopes of retaining the 50-over World Cup crown they won in 2019 were dashed at the 2023 edition, where they managed only three wins in nine games.

Mott’s decision to step down follows a review into the team’s recent performances, which saw England drop out of the top three in the ICC T20I rankings. The review, conducted by ECB managing director of England men’s cricket Rob Key, concluded that the team needed a new direction to prepare for future challenges.

Key praised Mott’s contributions to the team, acknowledging his role in England’s T20 World Cup triumph. However, he emphasized the need for a fresh approach to address the team’s recent struggles.

Assistant coach Marcus Trescothick will take over as interim head coach for the remainder of the home summer, which includes three T20Is and five ODIs against Australia in September. The search for a full-time replacement for Mott will begin immediately.

Mott expressed his gratitude for the opportunity to coach England, highlighting the team’s character and passion during his tenure. He also thanked the players, management, and ECB staff for their support.

The departure of Mott leaves a void in England’s coaching setup, with the team facing a crucial period in their development. The upcoming Champions Trophy and the next cycle of white-ball competition will test the team’s resolve and determine their future trajectory.

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