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India Drawn in Tough Thomas Cup Group, Faces China in Uber Cup

India Drawn in Tough Thomas Cup Group, Faces China in Uber Cup

By March 22, 2024 0

The Badminton World Federation (BWF) has unveiled the draws for the prestigious Thomas Cup and Uber Cup, scheduled to take place from April 28 to May 5, 2024. Defending Thomas Cup champion India has been placed in Group C alongside 14-time winner Indonesia, Thailand, and England.

In the Uber Cup, India has been drawn into Group A with 15-time champion China, Canada, and Singapore. India’s best performance in the Uber Cup remains the bronze medals they secured in 2014 and 2016.

Last year, India made history by defeating Indonesia 3-0 in the Thomas Cup final, claiming their maiden title. The tournament, which began in 1949, is the pinnacle of men’s badminton competition.

India’s Thomas Cup group will be a challenging one, with Indonesia seeking revenge for their defeat in the previous edition. Thailand and England are also formidable opponents, making Group C one of the most competitive.

In the Uber Cup, India will face a daunting task against China, who have dominated the competition for years. Canada and Singapore will provide additional challenges, but India will need to be at their best to advance from the group stage.

The draws were announced by BWF on Twitter, with the organization stating, “Thomas Cup Group C: Indonesia, India, Thailand, England.” The Badminton Association of India (BAI) also tweeted the Uber Cup draw, stating, “Draw – BWF Uber Cup Finals 2024 #TeamIndia has been drawn in Group A. Group A: China, India, Canada, Singapore #ThomasUberCupFinals.”

India’s goal will be to defend their Thomas Cup title and improve upon their Uber Cup performance. The team will be led by star shuttlers such as Lakshya Sen, Kidambi Srikanth, and P.V. Sindhu, who will be eager to make their mark on the international stage.

Categories: Badminton
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Virat Kohli in Top Form as RCB Gears Up for IPL Opener

Virat Kohli in Top Form as RCB Gears Up for IPL Opener

By March 22, 2024 0

Royal Challengers Bangalore (RCB) are poised to kick off their Indian Premier League (IPL) campaign on Friday, and star batter Virat Kohli is in prime form, according to the team’s Director of Cricket, Mo Bobat.

Bobat, who has been closely observing Kohli during training, praised the batter’s exceptional form. “Virat’s in a good place. He’s an absolute champion cricketer, and he’s at a stage in his career where most of what he does is hardwired into him. He’s coming in fresh, which is what we’re excited about,” Bobat said at a pre-match press conference.

Kohli has had a break from cricket and is eager to get involved, Bobat added. “He’s had a good bit of time off, he’s in a great frame of mind, and he’s hitting the ball brilliantly.”

Bobat, who joined RCB this season along with new head coach Andy Flower, expressed excitement about the team’s balanced squad. “We’ve got a fantastic group of players, we’re in good shape, and we’re fully fit. We’re going to pay most of our attention to how we want to play our cricket,” he said.

Bobat highlighted the team’s strong bowling attack, which includes international and IPL-winning experience. “We’ve got a lot of international experience and IPL-winning experience. In our Indian quicks, we’ve got some high-quality players as well, with international and ‘A’ team experience,” he said.

The spin department also boasts potential and experience, with players like Himanshu Sharma, Mayank Dagar, and Karn Sharma. “We feel like we’ve got a really good balanced side. We’ve got some good all-rounders as well that will contribute. Glenn Maxwell, Cameron Green. We’re very confident with our bowling attack,” Bobat concluded.

Categories: Cricket
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KKR vs SRH: Shreyas Iyer Returns, Starc and Cummins Clash in IPL Opener

KKR vs SRH: Shreyas Iyer Returns, Starc and Cummins Clash in IPL Opener

By March 22, 2024 0

Kolkata Knight Riders (KKR) and Sunrisers Hyderabad (SRH) will kick off the Indian Premier League (IPL) 2023 season on March 23 in Kolkata. The match will feature the return of Shreyas Iyer, who missed the entire 2022 season due to a back injury. Iyer will lead KKR, who have made some tactical additions while keeping the nucleus of the side intact.

KKR’s most successful captain, Gautam Gambhir, is back as a mentor. His partnership with head coach Chandrakant Pandit, a shrewd tactician in the domestic circuit, will be key to their revival. The team’s biggest signing is Australian pacer Mitchell Starc, who will be under huge pressure to perform. His spell in power-play and the death overs will be crucial.

SRH, under the leadership of Australian captain Pat Cummins, will also be looking to make a strong start. Cummins is the second-most expensive buy in this IPL and all eyes will be on him to revive the fortunes of the side that has had two wooden-spoon finishes in the last three seasons.

On paper, KKR with a star-studded batting and spin-heavy attack to complement Starc’s pace, will be overwhelming favorites. But SRH, under the shrewd captaincy of Cummins, will definitely fancy their chances. Travis Head and Heinrich Klaasen’s batting firepower in the power-play and death overs will be vital. Their bowling also looks balanced with the experienced Cummins and India’s veteran death-overs specialist Bhuvneshwar Kumar in the lineup, while the likes of Washington Sundar and Wanindu Hasaranga will be crucial in the spin department.

Categories: Cricket
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Rishabh Pant's Resilient Return to Lead Delhi Capitals in IPL Opener

Rishabh Pant’s Resilient Return to Lead Delhi Capitals in IPL Opener

By March 22, 2024 0

Rishabh Pant’s remarkable return to cricket after a life-threatening car crash in December 2022 has become a testament to his resilience and determination. The star wicketkeeper-batter is set to lead Delhi Capitals in their IPL opener against Punjab Kings on March 23, marking a significant milestone in his recovery.

Pant’s miraculous escape from the accident has been followed by an accelerated rehabilitation process. He has been cleared to play as a keeper-batter and has taken on the additional responsibility of captaining the side, replacing David Warner.

Delhi Capitals coach Ricky Ponting expressed confidence in Pant’s abilities, stating that he has “probably batted more in the last week than he has ever batted leading into most of the IPLs.”

The team’s potent fast bowling arsenal, led by Anrich Nortje, will be complemented by an explosive batting lineup featuring Warner, Prithvi Shaw, Mitchell Marsh, and Tristan Stubbs.

Meanwhile, Punjab Kings, who have never won the IPL, will be looking to turn things around under the leadership of Shikhar Dhawan. The team boasts a strong all-rounder contingent, including Sikandar Raza, Sam Curran, Liam Livingstone, and Rishi Dhawan.

However, Delhi Capitals are considered the favorites for the day game, given their overall strength and Pant’s return. The match promises to be an exciting clash between two teams eager to make a statement in the new IPL season.

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WA Seizes Control in Sheffield Shield Final as Tasmania Struggles

WA Seizes Control in Sheffield Shield Final as Tasmania Struggles

By March 22, 2024 0

Western Australia has seized control of the Sheffield Shield final against Tasmania, thanks to a relentless bowling attack that claimed crucial wickets on day two. Tasmania ended the day at 152 for 6, trailing WA’s first-innings total of 347 by 195 runs.

Cameron Gannon led the charge for WA, exploiting his height to devastating effect. He dismissed Jordan Silk and Beau Webster late in the day, leaving Tasmania in a precarious position. Spinner Corey Rocchiccioli, despite battling the flu, continued his impressive season with two wickets, including the dismissal of opener Caleb Jewell.

WA’s first innings received a boost from debutant Cooper Connolly, who fell just short of becoming the second-youngest Shield final centurion. Connolly’s 90, along with contributions from Hilton Cartwright (55) and Josh Inglis (50), helped WA post a formidable total.

Tasmania’s chase got off to a shaky start as Matthew Wade was trapped lbw by Gannon before lunch. Jewell and Charlie Wakim fought back with a 68-run partnership, but WA’s pressure eventually proved too much. Rocchiccioli dismissed Wakim and Jewell in quick succession, leaving Tasmania reeling.

In the final session, Aaron Hardie dismissed Jake Doran, while Gannon and Paris continued to exploit the conditions. Tasmania’s hopes of overtaking WA on bonus points are slim, meaning they must win the match to end their 11-year title drought.

Categories: Cricket
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G. Sathiyan Creates History, Wins First Indian Men's Singles Title at WTT Feeder Series

G. Sathiyan Creates History, Wins First Indian Men’s Singles Title at WTT Feeder Series

By March 22, 2024 0

Indian paddler G. Sathiyan has etched his name in history by becoming the first Indian to clinch a men’s singles title at a WTT Feeder Series event. In a thrilling final at the WTT Feeder Beirut 2024, Sathiyan overcame compatriot Manav Thakkar 3-1 (6-11 11-7 11-7 11-4) to secure the coveted trophy.

Sathiyan’s path to the final was not without its challenges. Seeded No. 11, he faced stiff competition from No. 5 seed Harmeet Desai and top seed Chuang Chih-Yuan, both of whom he defeated in hard-fought matches. However, it was the final against Thakkar that will remain etched in Sathiyan’s memory.

Despite losing the first game, Sathiyan displayed remarkable resilience and determination to turn the match in his favor. He dominated the next three games, showcasing his exceptional skills and tactical prowess. This victory marks Sathiyan’s first men’s singles success at a WTT event and his first singles title at an international ranking event since the ITTF Czech International Open 2021.

In the women’s singles, Xia Lian Ni continued her impressive form by capturing her second WTT Feeder title. The 60-year-old age-defying star outplayed Suh Hyo Won in straight games (11-9 11-5 11-5) to claim the trophy. Ni’s victory is a testament to her unwavering dedication and exceptional talent.

The Indian pair of Manav Thakkar and Manush Utpalbhai Shah narrowly missed out on the men’s doubles title, losing to the Cuban duo of Andy Pereira and Jorge Campos in a closely contested match (11-5, 7-11 11-13 12-14). However, India did secure a mixed doubles title as Diya Chitale and Manush Shah defeated Manav and Archana Kamath 3-1 (11-6 10-12 11-6 11-6).

Sathiyan’s historic triumph and the strong performances of other Indian paddlers at the WTT Feeder Beirut 2024 are a testament to the growing strength of Indian table tennis. These achievements will undoubtedly inspire future generations of Indian paddlers to strive for excellence on the international stage.

Categories: Badminton
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Virat Kohli Poised to Rewrite History in IPL 2024 Opener

Virat Kohli Poised to Rewrite History in IPL 2024 Opener

By March 22, 2024 0

Virat Kohli, the legendary Indian batter, is poised to make a grand return to the cricket field in the season opener of the Indian Premier League (IPL) 2024. The match between Royal Challengers Bengaluru (RCB) and Chennai Super Kings (CSK) on Friday holds the potential for Kohli to etch his name in the history books.

Kohli’s last appearance on the international stage was in January 2024, during the third T20I match between India and Afghanistan. Since then, he has been on a break, missing the recently concluded Test series against England.

However, his return to the IPL has sparked excitement among fans and pundits alike. If Kohli scores just six runs against CSK, he will become the first Indian batter to reach the milestone of 12,000 runs in T20 cricket. Currently, he stands at 11,994 runs from 376 T20 matches.

Kohli is also on the cusp of becoming the first Indian batter to score 100 half-centuries in T20s. He currently has 99 fifties to his name, trailing only Chris Gayle (110) and David Warner (109) on the all-time list.

Furthermore, Kohli has the opportunity to become the second batter to score 1000 runs against CSK in the IPL. With 985 runs in 31 matches against the Chennai-based franchise, he needs just 15 more runs to achieve this remarkable feat.

Kohli’s return to the IPL is particularly significant given his status as the tournament’s all-time leading run-scorer. In 237 matches and 229 innings, he has amassed 7263 runs at an average of 37.24 and a strike rate of 130.02. His best score is 113, and he has scored seven centuries and 50 fifties in his IPL career.

Last season, Kohli was the fourth-highest run-getter in the IPL, scoring 639 runs at an average of 53.25 and a strike rate of 139.82. His best score was 101*, and he scored two centuries and six fifties. However, he was unable to lead RCB to the playoffs.

The 17th season of the IPL promises to be an exciting one, and Kohli’s return is sure to add to the spectacle. The Southern derby between CSK and RCB on Friday will be a fitting stage for the Indian batting maestro to make history.

Categories: Cricket
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Tanush Kotian Replaces Adam Zampa at Rajasthan Royals, BR Sharath Joins Gujarat Titans

Tanush Kotian Replaces Adam Zampa at Rajasthan Royals, BR Sharath Joins Gujarat Titans

By March 22, 2024 0

Tanush Kotian, the Mumbai all-rounder who played a pivotal role in their record-breaking 42nd Ranji Trophy victory, has been roped in by Rajasthan Royals as a replacement for Australian leg-spinner Adam Zampa.

Kotian, known for his crisis management skills, was acquired by the Royals at his base price of Rs 20 lakh. Despite retaining Zampa under his Rs 1.5-crore contract, the Australian opted out due to the heavy workload leading up to the T20I World Cup in June.

The 25-year-old Kotian, an off-spinner and a handy lower-order batter, had been expecting an IPL contract in 2023 after playing a vital role in Mumbai’s Syed Mushtaq Ali Trophy triumph. However, he was reported for a suspect bowling action.

Undeterred, Kotian fought back and became the player-of-the-tournament in Mumbai’s Ranji Trophy triumph this season, scoring 502 runs and taking 29 wickets. Batting at No. 8, he scored an unbeaten 120 in the second innings and followed it up with an 89 not out in the quarterfinal and semifinal games against Baroda and Tamil Nadu respectively.

In another IPL replacement, Karnataka wicketkeeper-batter BR Sharath has been signed by Gujarat Titans as a replacement for Robin Minz, who was ruled out after getting injured in a freak motorcycle accident.

Sharath, who has played 28 T20s, 20 First-Class matches, and 43 List A games for Karnataka, has 328 T20 runs to his name. He will join GT for his base price of Rs 20 lakh.

Categories: Cricket
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Alec Stewart to Step Down as Surrey Director of Cricket

Alec Stewart to Step Down as Surrey Director of Cricket

By March 22, 2024 0

Alec Stewart, the legendary cricketer and former England Test captain, has announced his decision to step down as Surrey’s director of cricket at the end of 2024. Stewart, 60, has been at the helm of Surrey for 11 years, overseeing a period of unprecedented success for the club.

During his tenure, Surrey has won three County Championships (2018, 2022, 2023), establishing themselves as one of the dominant forces in English domestic cricket. Stewart’s leadership has also fostered a strong dressing-room culture and a commitment to developing young talent, with nine Surrey players going on to represent England.

However, Stewart’s decision to step down is driven by a desire to prioritize his family. His wife, Lynn, has been battling cancer since 2013, and Stewart wants to dedicate more time to her and their family.

“This has been the toughest decision of my working career,” Stewart said. “But after careful consideration, I will be stepping down from my role as Director of Cricket at the end of this calendar year.”

Stewart’s departure will leave a significant void at Surrey, but he has expressed his commitment to supporting the club in any way he can. He will continue to be available for advice and guidance, and he remains passionate about the club’s future.

“I am incredibly proud of what has been achieved over the last 11 years,” Stewart said. “Supporting young talent to develop into top-quality players is one of the most rewarding and enjoyable parts of the job.”

Surrey’s chairman, Oli Slipper, praised Stewart’s leadership and legacy. “Alec has been an outstanding leader over the last 11 years,” Slipper said. “He has built a club in his own image that is hard-working, dedicated, and humble.”

Surrey’s CEO, Steve Elworthy, echoed Slipper’s sentiments. “Alec has been one of the greatest servants this club has ever seen,” Elworthy said. “His professionalism, work ethic, and commitment to the club have driven success in his playing days and even more so as Director of Cricket.”

The search for Stewart’s successor is expected to be exhaustive, given Surrey’s status as one of the leading clubs in English cricket. The club’s aims for 2024 include strengthening ties with Oval Invincibles in the Hundred and growing the women’s side of the game.

Categories: Cricket
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IPL 2024 Opening Ceremony to Feature Bollywood Stars, Swedish DJ

IPL 2024 Opening Ceremony to Feature Bollywood Stars, Swedish DJ

By March 22, 2024 0

The Indian Premier League (IPL) 2024 is set to kick off with a grand opening ceremony at the MA Chidambaram Stadium in Chennai on Friday, March 24th. The ceremony will precede the first match of the tournament between defending champions Chennai Super Kings (CSK) and Royal Challengers Bengaluru (RCB).

The opening ceremony promises to be a star-studded affair, featuring performances by Bollywood actors Akshay Kumar and Tiger Shroff, singer Sonu Nigam, and musical maestro AR Rahman. Swedish DJ Axwell, a member of the Swedish House Mafia, will also enthrall the fans with a live performance.

The ceremony is scheduled to begin at 6:30 PM, while the match will get underway at 8 PM. The opening ceremony will be telecasted on the Star Sports Network and can be streamed for free on Jio Cinema.

This year’s IPL season promises to be an exciting one, with many enthralling duels expected on the field. The tournament will see the return of several star players, including Rishabh Pant, MS Dhoni, Virat Kohli, and Hardik Pandya.

Dhoni, who stepped down as CSK captain on the eve of the opening match, will be replaced by opening batter Ruturaj Gaikwad. Kohli will be leading RCB for the first time since the birth of his son, while Pandya will be captaining Mumbai Indians, a franchise he had left a couple of seasons ago.

The IPL 2024 will feature 10 teams, with the addition of two new franchises, Lucknow Super Giants and Gujarat Titans. The tournament will be played across 12 venues in India, with the final scheduled to be held at the Narendra Modi Stadium in Ahmedabad on May 28th.

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