January 19, 2024January 19, 2024 by Abhishek Shukla

Philadelphia Union Sign Bolivian Defender Jamir Berdecio

Philadelphia Union have signed Bolivian defender Jamir Berdecio on loan from the top-flight Bolivian side Oriente Petrolero. The deal for the 21-year-old runs through the 2024 MLS season and includes a purchase option, as announced by the club.

Union sporting director Ernst Tanner expressed excitement about the young talent, noting Berdecio’s impressive play in both the Bolivian Primera División and Bolivia’s U-23 national team. Tanner looks forward to integrating Berdecio into the Union’s system of play and contributing to his development.

Berdecio, primarily a right-back, has made 37 all-competition appearances since debuting for Oriente Petrolero in 2021. His arrival at Philadelphia adds depth to the Union’s defense, alongside Cameroon international Olivier Mbaizo and homegrown standout Nathan Harriel.

Recently called up to Bolivia’s U-23s, Berdecio was ultimately left off head coach Antonio Carlos Zago’s final roster for the 2024 Conmebol Pre-Olympic Tournament.

The Union are set to begin their 2024 season on February 20th against Deportivo Saprissa of Costa Rica in Concacaf Champions Cup action. Their MLS regular-season slate opens four days later, on February 24th, at home against Chicago Fire FC.

Berdecio’s move to the MLS represents a significant step in his career, offering him the opportunity to showcase his skills on a bigger stage and further his development in a competitive league like the MLS. The Philadelphia Union, known for their strong defensive play, will be looking to leverage Berdecio’s talents as they aim for success in the upcoming season.

January 19, 2024January 19, 2024 by Abhishek Shukla

PROFESSIONAL FIGHTERS LEAGUE ANNOUNCES THE 2024 SEASON OF PFL EUROPE

Paris (January 18) – The Professional Fighters League (PFL), the fastest growing and most innovative sports league, today announced that the 2024 Season of PFL Europe will be kicked off by unbeaten global superstar Cedric ‘The Best’ Doumbe (5-0) headlining against the undefeated Baissangour “Baki” Chamsoudinov (8-0) at the Accor Arena in Paris on Thursday March 7 live on DAZN.

Fresh off the PFL’s first-ever event in Paris last year that was voted the No.1 MMA crowd of 2023 and saw Doumbe achieve a viral nine-second knockout, the challenge of the undefeated hugely rated prospect Baki represents without question the toughest opponent of “The Best’s” career to-date with the two Paris natives set to leave it all in the SmartCage on March 7.

In addition to the return of Doumbe, the Accor Arena on March 7 will also witness the start of the PFL Europe Season, which will see a host of new elite talent from across Europe make their PFL debuts, along with some returning faces, all looking to begin their ‘Path to Greatness’ for the coveted PFL Europe Championship belt and $100,000 in prize money.

Set to be packed with storylines and drama, the stakes are even higher in 2024 as 32 athletes compete across four weight categories – including a new European Men’s Welterweight category, 2023 Champion Jakub Kaszuba and other returning faces from the 2023 Season.

Starting in Paris on March 7, PFL Europe will also be returning to where it all started in Newcastle, England on June 8 at Utilita Arena before moving on to new territory in Glasgow, Scotland at OVO Hydro for a huge night of Playoff action on September 28. As per 2023 the season will conclude with an epic Championship event at a venue to be revealed later this year.

Dan Hardy, Head of Fighter Operations for PFL Europe: “We’re incredibly excited to bring the biggest French MMA Superstar, to the biggest Arena in Paris, in front of the crowd that was voted the best MMA crowd in the world in 2023. Cedric Doumbe’s presence at the top of the card will cap off what is set to be a huge night of showcase fights featuring local French and European talent, as well as the kick off of another exciting season of the PFL Europe League format”.

The events will be broadcast live on DAZN, the global sports streaming platform and new Home of PFL in France. DAZN launched a dedicated product in France in the summer of 2023 and has since been building a catalog of premium sports content for the market. As PFL’s broadcast partner in France, DAZN will broadcast all four PFL Europe events scheduled for 2024.

Pete Oliver, CEO DAZN Growth Markets: “Since DAZN secured the top two Ligue 1 Uber Eats weekly picks through our partnership with Canal+ in August 2023, we have been looking at opportunities to build a strong portfolio of live sports for the French market. MMA is hugely popular in France, and the upcoming PFL schedule of events is unparalleled. And so, we are delighted to extend our relationship with PFL and deliver an action-packed program for French fans, and those around the world.”

PFL Europe is the PFL’s first international league and showcases the very best MMA athletes across Europe, which began in Newcastle on March 2023, before moving on to Berlin, Paris and finally landing in Dublin for the end-of-season Championship event. The ground-breaking league features 32 of Europe’s top fighters competing across four weight divisions. After four events, Dakota Ditcheva of England, Jakub Kaszuba of Poland, Jakob Nedoh of Slovenia and Khurshed Khakorov of Germany were crowned the first PFL Europe Champions in Dublin, with each Champion taking home $100,000.

PFL Europe Paris – March 7 at Accor Arena – Live on DAZN

Welterweight Main Event: Cedric Doumbe (5-0) vs. Baissangour “Baki” Chamsoudinov (8-0)

January 19, 2024January 19, 2024 by Abhishek Shukla

India suffers heartbreaking 2-2 (3-4 SO) loss to Germany in Semi-Finals

Ranchi, 18^th January 2024: The Indian Women’s Hockey Team put on a spirited show against Germany but were unable to get over the line as they lost 2-2 (3-4 SO) in a thrilling Semi-Final at the FIH Hockey Olympic Qualifiers Ranchi 2024. India will now face Japan, who lost 1-2 to USA in the second Semi-Final, on 19^th January in the 3rd/4th place play off with the winners of that game finding a place in the Olympics.

Coming into the Semi-Finals on the back of successive victories in the group stage, the Indian team made plenty of circle entries in the first quarter and it was a drag-flick from Deepika (14’) on a penalty corner towards the end of the quarter that put India in the lead.

Despite the Indians playing a tight defense and hardly giving Germany any time on the ball, Charlotte Stapenhorst (26’) equalized for Germany to bring them back into the game as the score read 1-1 at half-time.

Both teams raised the intensity of their game to try and take the lead in the third quarter and put themselves in the driving seat to qualify for the Final and confirm a place in the 2024 Paris Olympics but neither were able to score as the teams went into the final quarter with the score still reading 1-1.

Early in the quarter, Deepika took a shot at goal but the Germany goal-keeper kept it out. Both India and Germany came close to having their noses in front on multiple occasions and it was Charlotte Stapenhorst (56’) yet again who scored a field goal to put Germany in the lead with just over three minutes left on the clock. With one and a half minutes left on the clock, India went level courtesy a goal from Ishika (59’) who anticipated a deflection on a penalty corner taking the match into a penalty shoot-out as the score read 2-2 at the end of full time.

With the match heading into shootouts, Sangita, Sonika and Lalremsiami scored for India while Captain Savita was brilliant in front of goal but it was Germany that held on to their nerves to beat India 4-3 in the penalties to go through to the Final, winning by the barest of margins.

India will face Japan in the Semi-Final on 19^th January at 1630 hrs IST.

Matches will be live on Sports18 / Jio Cinema.

January 19, 2024January 19, 2024 by Abhishek Shukla

National Football League Announces International Player Pathway Program Class of 2024

NEW YORK — Jan. 18, 2024 — The National Football League has announced its International Player Pathway (IPP) program Class of 2024, featuring 11 athletes from around the world and a first-ever group of five specialists from England and Ireland.

Established in 2017, the IPP program aims to provide elite international athletes with the opportunity to compete at the NFL level, improve their skills and ultimately work to earn a spot on an NFL roster.

The IPP Class of 2024, including the program’s first-ever specialists, spans talent from eight nations and represents a total of 16 players transitioning to the sport of American football.

Athletes come from various sporting backgrounds including rugby, basketball, track, Gaelic football and Australian football, among others — showcasing how diverse sporting experience and capabilities can continue to enable the impact of international player pathways in enriching the fabric of the league.

“We are thrilled to welcome the International Player Pathway program Class of 2024,” said Peter O’Reilly, executive vice president international, club business and major events at the NFL. “As we focus on the global growth of the game, expanding international talent within the NFL is critical — connecting our sport with fans across the world. The 2024 program participants are an elite, diverse group of athletes and we look forward to following their journeys in the months ahead.”

“The IPP Class of 2024 presents a group of incredibly talented athletes from diverse sporting backgrounds and nations across the globe,” said Osi Umenyiora, who is spearheading the NFL’s Africa program. “Our international football development programs at the NFL offer life-changing opportunities for talent, and will only continue to impact the league this season and in the seasons ahead. This is only the beginning for these players, and we look forward to sharing their stories and the game of football with the world.”

Since its inception, 37 international players have signed with NFL teams (allocated, drafted or signed as a free agent), with 18 IPP athletes currently on NFL rosters. Five players – Jordan Mailata, Jakob Johnson, Efe Obada, Sammis Reyes and David Bada – have seen active rosters with the Philadelphia Eagles, Las Vegas Raiders and Washington Commanders, since the program began in 2017.

Players will begin training in the United States in January at IMG Academy and will have the opportunity to showcase their talents to NFL club scouts in March.

At the conclusion of training camp, the group of 16 IPP athletes will be eligible to fill a 17^th practice squad roster spot across any of the 32 teams — an additional spot reserved for an international player — following the rule change beginning with the 2024 season applicable to athletes outside of the United States and Canada.

The International Player Pathway Program Class of 2024 includes:

PLAYER	COUNTRY
Jotham Russell	Australia
Patrick Murtagh	Australia
Florian Bierbaumer	Austria
Bayron Matos	Dominican Republic
George Smith	England
Travis Clayton	England
Harry Mallinder	England
Mark Jackson	Ireland
Charlie Smyth	Ireland
Darragh Leader	Ireland
Rory Beggan	Ireland
Sam Orji	Nigeria
Isaac Ajanah	Nigeria
Udo Uzuegbu	Nigeria
Praise Olatoke	Nigeria/Scotland
Louis Rees-Zammit	Wales

The International Player Pathway program is part of a broader long-term commitment from the NFL and its 32 clubs to accelerate global football development efforts, and see more international talent play the game. The NFL has a strategic focus on engaging and enabling athletes of all ages to find, play and thrive in the sport.

January 19, 2024January 19, 2024 by Abhishek Shukla

Ireland sends first luge athlete to Youth Olympic Games

Gangwon (FIL) Lily Cooke will make history at Gangwon 2024 as Ireland’s first athlete to compete in luge at the Winter Youth Olympic Games.

16 years old Cooke was inspired after seeing Elsa Desmond make Ireland’s Olympic luge debut at Beijing 2022.

“When I saw Ireland competing in the 2022 Beijing Olympics, I decided I wanted to try luge,” explained Cooke.

Now, heading into the first Youth Olympic Games to be staged in Asia, Cooke has formed a unique bond with Desmond, who is now her coach.

“I am very grateful to have made it to YOG thanks to my coach,” said Cooke. “I’m so excited to have this amazing experience in Korea with all the other amazing athletes.”

‘Doctor Luge’ scoring again for Ireland

Desmond stole hearts and minds at Beijing 2022 thanks to her incredible personal journey, chasing her dream of becoming an Olympic athlete in luge – the fastest sport on ice – at the relatively late age of 18, while also pursuing her career dreams in medicine.

When she lined up at the Olympic Games, she was competing against many luge athletes in Europe who started learning this physically and mentally demanding sport from as young as six years old.

Now, Desmond is doing everything possible for young luge athletes from Ireland with the same dreams.

“I am so proud of Lily for all her hard work,” said Desmond. “Qualifying for YOG was not easy, but she worked hard and it all paid off. “This is a huge achievement for her and for Ireland.”

‘More than a coach’

Desmond will be supporting Cooke all the way at Gangwon 2024, as her travelling coach and much more.

“Elsa Desmond is my sports idol, as well as my coach, teammate and friend,” concluded Cooke. “She helps me overcome every challenge, both on and off the ice.”

Irish flair at Gangwon 2024

Cooke will join a total of 102 luge athletes from 26 nations at Gangwon 2024 competing at the Alpensia Sliding Center in Pyeongchang – venue of the 2018 Winter Olympics – in Men’s and Women’s Single, Men’s and Women’s Double and Team Relay events from 20-23 January.

“We can’t wait to see our first Irish athlete compete at the Youth Olympic Games,” said Nancy Chillingworth, Chef de Mission from Ireland’s National Olympic Committee. “These are exciting times for luge – with so many new nations competing at Gangwon 2024, and now the big potential of at least two Irish luge athletes at Milano-Cortina 2026!”

January 19, 2024January 19, 2024 by Abhishek Shukla

Broadcast details for ICC U19 Men’s Cricket World Cup 2024 unveiled

The International Cricket Council (ICC) today revealed details of the broadcast arrangements in place for the ICC U19 Men’s Cricket World Cup 2024, as South Africa prepares to host the action from 19 January.

The event has historically provided fans with the first glimpse of the stars of tomorrow, and for the first time ever, all 41 matches at the event will be broadcast live to audiences around the globe.

Among the destinations for live broadcast coverage, fans can catch the action on Star Sports (India), Amazon (Australia), Sky Sports (UK), Supersport (Sub-Saharan Africa), CricLife (MENA), Willow (USA and Canada), ESPN (Caribbean and South America) and Sky Sport (New Zealand).

Fans in other territories will be able to watch the U19 Men’s Cricket World Cup 2024 for free on the ICC’s OTT platform, ICC.tv, ensuring live coverage of all matches across the world.

A full list of broadcasters and territories can be found here.

Matchday broadcast coverage will include pre-match build-up and post-match reactions with the captains’ interviews.

Renowned broadcaster and former West Indies pacer Ian Bishop will be leading the commentary team and he will be joined by Scott Styris, Samuel Badree and Lydia Greenway, former international stars who have lifted ICC world titles for their respective teams.

Other former international cricketers on the roster include WV Raman, Marina Iqbal, Ed Rainsford, Bazid Khan, Abhinav Mukund, Tino Mawoyo, HD Ackerman and Jon Kent.

The line-up will also include broadcasters Charles Dagnall, Melinda Farrell, Andrew Leonard, Raunak Kapoor, Philasande Sixaba, Firdose Moonda and Zaahier Adams.

Ian Bishop: “I always look forward to the U19 World Cups as some of the world’s best up-and-coming players are on show. To follow all the talent so closely and to then see them develop into great achievers is very satisfying.

“I wish the players the very best and look forward to all the action, just as fans around the world would be doing over the next few weeks.”

Lydia Greenway: “The Under-19 World Cup is an established feeder system for men’s cricket and I am so glad we also have one for women now. These tournaments provide just the right kind of exposure players need at that age, preparing them for bigger challenges ahead.

“I’m sure this edition will unearth some outstanding players, and this will be a fantastic tournament to watch.”

Scott Styris: “The Under-19 World Cup provides players from around the world a pathway for the future and the results have been there for everyone to see. The likes of Kane Williamson, Virat Kohli and Kagiso Rabada have all tread this path, having featured in past editions.

“It’s a great opportunity for me to be close to the action and see all these future stars compete on the big stage.”

Charles Dagnall: “The Under-19 World Cup is where careers are born. Many household names of cricket first showcased their skills, potential and character at this wonderful event and what a thrill it will be to watch the best young players in the world come together on the big stage.

“It will be a pleasure working alongside a fabulous team of commentators and I can’t wait for the action to begin.”

The coverage will be delivered by Sunset+Vine, supported by their local OB equipment partner, Dimensions. The on-air graphics will be provided by Quidich Innovation Labs.

Fans will also be able to follow the action closely at u19worldcup.com and the ICC’s mobile app, with highlights, interviews and behind the scenes content provided in addition to live-scoring and the latest tournament news.

The ICC will also showcase a host of other tournament content, including match action, through its social media channels, celebrating the future stars of the sport using hashtag #u19worldcup

January 18, 2024January 18, 2024 by Abhishek Shukla

FIBA and TCL to ‘Inspire Greatness’ with extension of Global Partnership for another four years

MIES (Switzerland) – FIBA and global leading tech brand TCL will continue their relationship as Global Partners for another four years after agreeing to build on their already highly successful collaboration.

Having partnered since 2018, TCL premium level branding has been showcased at all of FIBA’s major tournaments. This included last year’s FIBA Basketball World Cup 2023, where TCL played a crucial role in helping deliver FIBA’s biggest and most successful event in international basketball history. TCL also built commercial display booths in all three host countries of the World Cup and had Fan Cams for on-court activities in all 92 games.

Meanwhile, TCL has become synonymous with high performance and excellence through the ‘TCL Player of the Game’ award at FIBA events. Harnessing the power of brand exposure in FIBA’s leading competitions, this platform has accelerated TCL’s globalization and they have been able to use this to increase their influence, bringing the local markets benefits from both a sales and reputation perspective.

Both FIBA and TCL also delivered a Corporate Social Responsibility project together. The ‘Break and Believe’ initiative to boost the appeal of girls and women’s basketball was launched at the FIBA Women’s Basketball World Cup 2022 in Australia and has been an exciting part of FIBA’s renowned ‘Her World, Her Rules‘ project.

FIBA Secretary General Andreas Zagklis said: “FIBA and TCL enjoy a strong partnership that is now being extended to a third consecutive World Cup cycle.

“TCL has not only become synonymous with some of the best player performances in FIBA competitions, but they have also shown a great appetite to support wider basketball campaigns. The highly active part they have played in promoting Women in Basketball, one of our strategic priorities, is the kind of added value that makes us particularly satisfied to be extending this agreement for another four years.”

Vice President of TCL Technology, Ms. Wei Xue, commented: “TCL is honored to extend this strategic cooperation with FIBA for the next four years. During the past six years in our partnership, through our successful collaboration together, we have experienced international events such as the FlBA Basketball World Cup and the FlBA Women’s Basketball World Cup, which have brought passion and joy to basketball fans worldwide.

“Working together with FIBA again, TCL aims to further accelerate its process of globalization through FIBA’s international exposure and activations, improving TCL’s global brand influence. Let’s continue to inspire greatness.”

This agreement was brokered by FIBA Marketing, the strategic partnership between FIBA and Infront

January 18, 2024January 18, 2024 by Abhishek Shukla

Yonex-Sunrise India Open 2024: HS Prannoy, Chirag-Satwik sail into quarters

New Delhi, January 18, 2024: India’s World Championships 2023 bronze medallist HS Prannoy and men’s doubles pair of Chirag Shetty and Satwiksairaj Rankireddy advanced to the quarter-finals of the Yonex-Sunrise India Open 2024, organized by the Badminton Association of India, by securing emphatic victories at the Indira Gandhi Indoor Stadium here on Thursday.

While HS Prannoy fought back from a game down to defeat young compatriot Priyanshu Rajawat 20-22, 21-14, 21-14, Chirag-Satwik comfortably saw off Lu Ching Yao and Yang Po Han of Chinese Taipei for a 21-14, 21-15 victory.

In the battle of the two Indians in the second round, both shuttlers went toe-to-toe right from the outset.

In the opening game, Priyanshu overturned a two-point deficit by winning four consecutive points at the very end to lead 20-18 lead but his opponent neatly saved two game points to level the score at 20-20. However, Prannoy could not counter the 21-year-old’s precise consecutive smashes and lost the first game.

In the second game, the World No.8 orchestrated a formidable comeback and notched seven consecutive points to establish a commanding 7-0 lead over Priyanshu. From that point, Prannoy never looked back and comfortably closed out the game to force a decider. The 31-year-old extended his dominance in the final game to seal a third consecutive head-to-head victory against Priyanshu.

Sharing his thoughts on the victory, HS Prannoy stated, “I had my chances at 18-16, but he played a steady game till the end of the first game. I was ready to play the second and third games and I knew I had to stretch the game long today to get this win. When you know that there is somebody who knows your game very well, it is important to know how you will execute, during the game and score points. He (Priyanshu) has been somebody who has come up really well in the last one or two years and I am really happy to see somebody who is 21, playing at this level.”

On the adjacent court, Asian Games 2022 gold medallists Chirag-Satwik made a bright start in their pre-quarterfinals clash. The Indian pair seized the first game by winning the long rallies and adeptly defending against their opponent’s attacks.

Having previously defeated the Taiwanese pair in straight games in the French Open 2022 final, Chirag-Satwik replicated that result by continuing their domination in the second game and registering a 46-minute victory on home turf.

“The way we played, we were dominating right from the start of the match. Fired some rockets across the net. All the tactics that we had planned for the match kind worked for us. We are set for the next match and hopefully, we will go all guns blazing and play our best,” commented Chirag Shetty after the game.

Earlier in the day, Hong Kong’s Lee Cheuk Yiu led the march of the underdogs in the second round with an upset win over defending men’s singles champion Kunlavut Vitidsarn of Thailand

The morning session also saw former world champion Akane Yamaguchi of Japan and All England champion Li Shi Feng of China biting the dust.

Thailand’s Busanan Ongbamrungphan defeated Yamaguchi 21-11, 21-19 while Japan’s Koke Watanabe upset third seed Feng 14-21, 21-13, 21-9.
In other women’s singles matches, defending champion An-Se Young of South Korea had to fight hard for a 21-19, 14-21, 21-14 win over Beiwen Zhang of USA. Tokyo Olympics silver medallist Tai Tzu-Ying of Chinese Taipei and two-time World Championships bronze medallist He Bing Jao of China also recorded comfortable wins over their respective opponents.

Tai defeated Supanida Katethong 21-12, 21-11 while He Bing Jao packed off Pornpawee Chochuwong 21-6, 21-11.

January 18, 2024January 18, 2024 by Abhishek Shukla

Rutuja lone Indian to qualify for quarterfinals to KPB Trust ITF Women’s Open

Bengaluru, Jan 18: Asian Games Gold medallist Rutuja Bhosale became the lone woman amongst five Indians in the main draw to qualify for the women’s singles quarterfinals of the KPB Trust ITF Women’s Open at the KSLTA Stadium here on Thursday. The 27-year-old did not have to break much sweat as her highest ranked Indian opponent Ankita Raina, seeded 8^th, threw in the towel after being indisposed, three games into the pre-quarterfinal match where she was trailing 1-2.

The other Indian in fray – Vaidehi Chaudhary also exited as she could not sustain her form after winning the first set against sixth seed Carole Monnet of France and went down 7-6 (5), 4-6, 4-6. The Indian challenge in the doubles too fizzled out as the duo of Sharmada Balu and Sravya Shivani Chilakalapudi and the pair of Shrivalli Rashmikaa Bhamidipaty and Vaidehi Chaudhari lost their respective quarterfinal matches. The second seeded pair of Prarthana G Thombare and Anastasia Tikhonova suffered a shock defeat at the hands of Amandine Hesse of France and Slovian Dalila Jakupovic in another last-four tie.

Meanwhile, top seed Darja Semenistaja of Latvia had to really dig deep to overcome her German opponent and qualifier Lena Papadakis 7-6 (5), 3-6, 6-4 to make it to the last eight stage. Darja who has three W60 and one W40 titles in the last season, after losing her serve in the very first game, came back strongly to win the next four games with breaks in the 2^nd and the 4^th game. The 21 year old who is currently ranked 142^nd in the world, was serving for the set at 5-3 but lost her serve as the 25-year-old German then took the set into tie-break which the younger of the opponent won at 5. Lena launched into a different mode in the second set, where she served with aplomb and dished out four aces out of a total of eight in the entire match. After both the opponents had traded a break each by the sixth game, Lena achieved a crucial break in the eighth game and held her serve in the next to take the match into the deciding set.

Darja after losing her serve in the first game of the third set, went on to win the next three games to gain the momentum and led 5-2 with another break in the sixth game. Lena fought back winning the next two games while saving two match points in the 9^th game before the Latvian broke her serve to win the set and the match.

Results (Bracket indicates country, pre-fix indicates seeding)

Singles Round of 16

4-Moyuka Uchijima (JPN) bt Dalila Jakupovic (SLO) 6-3, 6-3; Tatiana Prozorova Vs. Q-Mei Yamaguchi (JPN) 6-0, 6-2; WC-Rutuja Bhosale (IND) bt 8-Ankita Raina 2-1 (retd); 1-Darja Semenistaja (LAT) bt Q-Lena Papadakis (GER) 7-6 (5), 3-6, 6-4; 2-Chloe Paquet (FRA) bt Sakura Hosogi (JPN) 6-4, 6-0; Q-Naho Sato (JPN) bt Jana Kolodynska 7-5, 6-2; 5-Polina Kudermetova bt Tina Nadine Smith (AUS) 6-3, 1-6, 6-4; 6-Carole Monnet (FRA) bt Vaidehi Chaudhari (IND) 6-7 (5), 6-4, 6-4.

Doubles Quarterfinals

Saki Imamura/Naho Sato (both JPN) bt WC-Sharmada Balu/Sravya Shivani Chilakalapudi (both IND) 6-0, 6-1; 1-Camilla Rosatello (ITA)/Darja Semenistaja (LAT) bt Polina Kudermetova/Ekaterina Yashina 6-4, 6-4; Yu-Yun Li (TPE)/Eri Shimizu (JPN) bt Shrivalli Rashmikaa Bhamidipaty/Vaidehi Chaudhari (both IND) 6-1, 6-4; Amandine Hesse (FRA)/Dalila Jakupovic (SLO) bt 2-Prarthana G Thombare (IND)/Anastasia Tikhonova 6-2, 2-6, 10-7.

January 18, 2024January 18, 2024 by Abhishek Shukla

“Onwards and upwards,” Sumit Nagal stays focused despite the dream run at the Australian Open comes to an end.

Mumbai, January 18, 2024: The fairytale journey in Australian Open of Indian sensation Sumit Nagal culminated as Shang Juncheng edged him in their nail-biting Round 2 match. Despite Nagal clinching the first set, 18-year-old Shang came back strong to win the next three games and impose defeat on Nagal. Speaking with Somdev Devvarman for a post-match interview with Sony Sports Network, the official broadcaster for the tournament in India, Sumit Nagal explained his analysis of the game and his focus on breaking into the top 100 ATP rankings and a message for his well-wishers.

Speaking about the loss, Nagal said, “If I go back and look at the game, I don’t think I did too many bad things. Perhaps 2-3 mistakes in three hours. I started the game really well, but I felt a little drop in the weather went against me. He started swinging, and from there, I was trying to figure out how to get the balls away from his hitting zone. I did not do a good job.”

Later, the 26-year-old went on to explain his strategy to break into the ATP Top 100 rankings. “I’m probably not going to think too much about it. I’m just going to focus on tennis, going match by match, and try to ignore the ranking part and do well in the upcoming tournaments. If I’m doing well in the tournament, the ranking will go up automatically,” he stated.

Nagal received a lot of praise and recognition for his heroics in the first round of the Australian Open against World No. 27 Alexander Bublik and becoming the first Indian male player since Ramesh Krishnan in 1989 to beat a seeded player at a Grand Slam. He concluded with a message for his supporters, stating, “I would like to thank my family, my friends, sponsors, and all the people who are supporting me in India. The number of people who came out to the court today to cheer for me and the people who supported me from India and across the world, thank you very much. I hope I will keep the flag high and see you guys around.”

In another game, Indian tennis maestro Rohan Bopanna advanced to the 2nd round of the men’s doubles category alongside partner Matthew Ebden after battling hard in the first round against the Australian pair James Duckworth and Marc Polmans in a 7-6 (5), 4-6, 7-6 (10-2) win.

Can Rohan Bopanna and Matthew Ebden overcome the threat posed by the Aussie pair of John Millman and Edward Winter? Find out LIVE on Friday, January 19th, only on Sony Sports Network. Sony Sports Network will bring all the LIVE action from the tournament in English and Hindi, while Tamil and Telugu language feeds will be added from the quarter-finals stage onwards

January 18, 2024January 18, 2024 by Abhishek Shukla

NFL Makes an Impact in the Orlando Community Throughout 2024 Pro Bowl Games Week

NEW YORK — Jan. 18, 2024 — The 2024 Pro Bowl Games presented by Verizon will bring together the league’s best talent to showcase their skills on the field, while also highlighting the NFL family’s commitment to giving back off the field. In the return to Orlando for the 2024 Pro Bowl Games presented by Verizon, the league will host events throughout the city aimed at leaving a positive philanthropic legacy in the community and engaging with youth through flag football.

The 2024 Pro Bowl Games features players competing in the Pro Bowl Skills contest, a multi-day AFC versus NFC competition that culminates in an action-packed flag football game. The Pro Bowl Games will have cumulative scoring starting with Skills competitions on Thursday, Feb. 1, leading up to the AFC versus NFC flag football game on Sunday, Feb. 4 at Camping World Stadium. The conference with the most collective points will be crowned the winner.

Celebrations for the 2024 Pro Bowl Games will begin with the Pro Bowl Welcome Press Conference and Legacy Project on Wednesday, Jan. 31 at the Rock Lake Neighborhood Center in Orlando. Following the press conference, students will participate in NFL PLAY 60 football activities. Community volunteers and students who utilize the recreation center will plant low water use trees alongside the Pro Bowl team captains around the facility’s sports field and revitalize its learning garden. Bookshelves and books will be added to the computer room to provide increased reading opportunities.

Throughout the week, the NFL is once again partnering with TAPS to bring military families to Orlando for the 2024 Pro Bowl Games. TAPS is a nonprofit organization and an NFLSalute to Service partner that offers compassionate care to all those grieving the loss of a loved one who passed away while serving in our Armed Forces or as a result of their service. Through its partnership with TAPS, the NFL honors families of those who sacrificed their lives for our country by hosting them at year-round NFL events and supporting programs that help heal through mentorship and counseling. The NFL and TAPS will bring military families to the NFC and AFC Pro Bowl practices, participate in a meet and greet with Pro Bowl players, and engage in NFL PLAY 60 activities. On Sunday, Feb. 4, TAPS families will join other community groups to watch the 2024 Pro Bowl Game.

During Pro Bowl Games Week, the NFL will also help grant a wish for Make-A-Wish kids Luca and Hudson. Make-A-Wish is a long-standing partner of the NFL and creates life-changing wishes for children with critical illnesses. Luca is a 13-year-old from Illinois with a nervous system disorder. He is an avid football fan. His favorite player is Justin Fields of the Chicago Bears who he looks up to for his willingness to talk about his nervous system disorder. Hudson is an 11-year-old from Indiana with a respiratory condition. He has several favorite players scattered throughout the league, and the Pro Bowl presents an opportunity to see many of them take the field at the same time. As part of their experience, Luca, Hudson and their families will attend the Pro Bowl Skills Show on Thursday, Feb. 1, interact with Pro Bowl players at both the NFC and AFC practices and attend the 2024 Pro Bowl Game.

The NFL is also working with community groups across Orlando to invite them to the 2024 Pro Bowl Game. Invited groups include members of the LGBTQ community, veterans and their families, youth groups, groups that serve domestic violence and sexual assault survivors, and more.

In addition to the community activities and engagement at the Pro Bowl Games events, flag football will be taking center stage throughout the week. 252 teams comprising over 3,600 players will take part in the largest flag football tournament at the NFL FLAG Championships at Pro Bowl Games. Tournament games will start Friday, Feb. 2, culminating in the championship game occurring during the pregame of the AFC versus NFC flag football Pro Bowl game on Sunday, Feb. 4.

A full list of Pro Bowl Games Week community and flag football events is below.

Salute to Service Screening of 100 Yards of Hope

On Tuesday, Jan. 30, from 6 to 9 p.m. ET, the NFL will host a special screening of 100 Yards of Hope at the Orlando Museum of Art. 100 Yards of Hope is the story of a partnership between the NFL, FORCE BLUE special ops military veterans, marine scientists, environmental agencies and Super Bowl Host Committees to restore a coral reef, and in the process, restore a sense of purpose and mission for highly skilled military veterans. This documentary has been shown to military audiences across the country and has inspired service members to repurpose their skills outside of the military, continue to make a difference in the world and serve their country in new ways. The screening will be followed by an interactive panel discussion between the NFL, FORCE Blue and one of the marine experts who helped implement this unique project.

Pro Bowl Welcome Press Conference and Legacy Project

On Wednesday, Jan. 31, the NFL will begin the Pro Bowl Games celebrations at Orlando’s Rock Lake Neighborhood Center with a kickoff press conference and a community project. Community volunteers and the 70 students who utilize the recreation center will plant low water use trees around the center’s sports field and revitalize the facility’s learning garden. Bookshelves and books will be added to the computer room to provide increased reading opportunities for the students. Following the press conference, the students will enjoy NFL PLAY 60 football activities. The event’s community service component will begin at 12:30 p.m. ET and the press conference will begin at 3:00 p.m. ET.

Truist Youth Financial Literacy and NFL PLAY 60 Event

On Thursday, Feb. 1, Truist and the NFL will visit a local youth organization to bring financial literacy education and NFL PLAY 60 activities to the community. Youth participating will have the opportunity to attend the Pro Bowl Skills Showdown later that evening.

NFL FLAG Championships at Pro Bowl Games Tournament

The NFL will host the largest flag football tournament to date through the NFL FLAG Championships at Pro Bowl Games. The tournament will feature 252 teams comprised of more than 3,600 players. Fourteen different countries will be represented, including Australia, Bahamas, Brazil, Canada, China, France, Germany, Ghana, Japan, Kenya, Mexico, New Zealand, Nigeria, and the United Kingdom. There will be an adult and youth competition, with participants in the latter featuring boys and girls aged 8-17. The four-day event will consist of pool play and a single elimination tournament. The games will start on Friday, Feb. 2 at the University of Central Florida (UCF) Rec Fields and will conclude with championship games played on Sunday, Feb. 4 at Camping World Stadium.

AYF Middle School All-Star Game

On Saturday, Feb. 3, American Youth Football’s (AYFs) top middle school football players will compete in an All-Star game to celebrate their immense contribution to their teams. About 100 players will participate in the game played at The Master’s Academy in Orlando.

NFL FLAG Championships at Pro Bowl Games – Championship Games

NFL FLAG Championships will be held at the Pro Bowl Games for the fourth consecutive year as part of the week-long celebration of football across all levels. 14U Boys & 17U Girls Championship games of the tournament will compete during the pre-game of the 2023 Pro Bowl Game on Sunday, Feb. 4 at Camping World Stadium. The 17U Girls Championship game will be televised on ESPN beginning at 10:00 a.m. local time.

Don Shula High School Coach of the Year Award

The Don Shula NFL High School Coach of the Year award honors an exemplary football coach at the high school level who displays the integrity, achievement, and leadership demonstrated by Coach Shula. Coaches are nominated for the national award by all 32 NFL teams, and the winner is selected by a panel of judges including Tony Dungy, Peyton Manning, Scott Pioli, and more. The two winners will be invited to the Pro Bowl Games with on-field access on Sunday, Feb. 4, and will be recognized throughout the week.

January 18, 2024January 18, 2024 by Abhishek Shukla

FORMULA E STILL SETTING THE PACE IN GLOBAL SUSTAINABILITY RANKINGS

LONDON, UK. Thurs. 18 Jan. 2024 – Formula E has maintained its position as global leader for sustainability in sport, topping the Global Sustainability Benchmark in Sport (GSBS) report, the Sustainable Championships Index (SChI™), and the Sustainable Motorsport Index (SMI) once again.

GSBS, the independent sustainability rating organisation, named Formula E top in four of the five award categories for sustainable performance from amongst the world’s leading elite sporting organisations, published in its annual report this week.

The report included a comprehensive analysis of 55 of the most influential organisations in the sports industry, including: FC Barcelona, Manchester City FC, Real Madrid, the Premier League, Formula 1, NFL, WWE, Chicago Bulls, Boston Celtics, NY Yankees, Los Angeles Lakers, and UFC.

The GSBS assessment drew from nearly 500 organisations worldwide invited to participate in the initial assessment – including motorsport, football, tennis, American football, baseball, basketball, ice hockey, handball, and contact sports – representing the highest levels of Corporate, Environmental, Social and Governance (CESG) activity across professional sports. For the full report, visit GSBS Report.

Formula E was awarded Best Total Performance 2023 (jointly with Borussia Dortmund) for the second year running and was ranked highest in Best Corporate Performance, Best Social Performance, and Best Governance Performance.

Formula E also built on further success in the third edition of the SChI™, being crowned the most sustainable global motorsport for the third consecutive year.

The SChI™, an initiative run by Enovation Consulting, supported by University College London, assesses the sustainable performance of 106 motorsport championships. Assessments are carried out against six key markers of sustainability: Certifications, accreditations and awards, environmental criteria, social criteria, engagement and partnerships, and approaches to sustainability.

The ABB FIA Formula E World Championship significantly outperformed its competitors, securing four prestigious cups and clinching the leading position in the Index, surpassing the FIA Formula One World Championship.

The SMI is presently the only global performance system that measures publicly disclosed sustainability practices against the United Nation’s Sustainable Development Goals and the ESG framework in motorsports.

Julia Pallé, Vice President, Sustainability, Formula E said:

“We are proud to keep raising the bar in the global standard for sustainability in sport. Sustainability has been at the core of our championship since its inception, and we are determined to build on our commitment and capabilities year after year.

“Topping the charts once again reinforces that entertainment and sustainability can coexist without compromise. We urge the sports industry to continue working towards the highest level of sustainable operations and to use their influence to engage fans on the collective mission to combat climate change and social progress in line with the UN Sport 4 Climate action framework.”

January 18, 2024January 18, 2024 by Abhishek Shukla

Pregame Entertainment Lineup Unveiled for Super Bowl LVIII

NEW YORK — Jan. 18, 2024 —The NFL announced the pregame entertainment lineup for Super Bowl LVIII in Las Vegas, which will be played at Allegiant Stadium on Sunday, Feb. 11, 2024, and will air on CBS.

Multi-media entertainment mogul Reba McEntire will sing the national anthem. A household name through a successful career that includes music, television, film, theater, retail and hospitality, McEntire is a Country Music Hall of Fame and Hollywood Bowl member who has more than 50 award wins under her belt, including honors from the ACM Awards, American Music Awards, People’s Choice Awards, CMA Awards, GRAMMY® Awards and GMA Dove Awards.

Post Malone, the eight-time diamond-certified, Grammy-nominated phenomenon, will sing “America the Beautiful.” Since emerging in 2015, Post Malone’s catalog comprises the Grammy Award-nominated “rockstar” [feat. 21 Savage” (Diamond), “Sunflower (Spider-Man: Into The Spider-Verse)” [feat. Swae Lee] (Diamond), “I Fall Apart” (5x-platinum), “Psycho” [feat. Ty Dolla $ign] (5x-platinum), “White Iverson” (5x-platinum), “Better Now” (4x-platinum) and more.

Grammy Award-winning singer/songwriter, activist and acclaimed actress Andra Day will sing “Lift Every Voice and Sing.” Initially known for her 2016 Grammy-nominated behemoth, “Rise Up,” which amassed over 1 billion streams and an RIAA triple-platinum certification, Day has performed alongside numerous global artists and stars. Her feature-acting debut “The United States vs. Billie Holiday” earned her a nomination for Best Actress at the Oscars, two Golden Globes for Actress in a Drama Motion Picture and Original Song in a Motion Picture.

The national anthem and “Lift Every Voice and Sing” will be produced and arranged by Emmy Award-winning Musical Director/Producer Adam Blackstone.

The pregame entertainment and Apple Music Super Bowl Halftime Show will also feature premiere American Sign Language (ASL) performances. On behalf of the National Association of the Deaf (NAD), actor Daniel Durant, who starred in the Academy Award-winning movie “CODA,” will perform the national anthem in ASL; Actress, model and dancer Anjel Piñero will sign “America the Beautiful;” and Shaheem Sanchez, actor and choreographer, will sign “Lift Every Voice and Sing.” Sanchez will perform the ASL rendition of the Apple Music Super Bowl Halftime Show. The ASL pre-game performances and the ASL Halftime show will be produced in partnership with Alexis Kashar of LOVE SIGN and Howard Rosenblum of the NAD.

The NFL previously announced one of the most influential artists of a generation, Usher, will headline the Apple Music Super Bowl Halftime Show, which will be produced by DPS with Roc Nation and Jesse Collins serving as executive producers, and Hamish Hamilton and Shawn Carter serving as directors.

January 18, 2024January 18, 2024 by Abhishek Shukla

It’s All Executing Our Plans Well, Says Chris Lynn Gulf Giants Begin Title Defence

Dubai, 18 January 2024: After winning the DP World ILT20 trophy in the first season, the Adani Sportsline-owned Gulf Giants have assembled a squad of young talented players, led by experienced stars as they commence their campaign with a blockbuster clash against the Sharjah Warriors at the Sharjah Cricket Stadium on Friday.

Led by James Vince, the side also retained Chris Lynn, one of many international players who have excelled in the 2023-24 edition of Australia’s Big Bash League (BBL), leaving as the third-highest run-scorer with 304 runs to his name. The star Australian batter was a part of the pre-tournament press conference, and gave an idea on how his team will approach the second edition of the ILT20 as defending champions.

“We won’t change too much because our method and blueprint worked last time out, so it’s all about just executing that again. Yes, we’ve got a couple personnel changes but our blueprint is there. In T20 cricket, it’s not about reinventing, it’s about executing the smaller things. You have to adapt to the condition because the ball did swing around a little bit. We got 3-4 weeks together and hopefully the results will take care of themselves,” said the highest run-getter for the Adani Sportsline-owned side in season 1 of the ILT20.

They will also be boosted by the return of Jamie Overton, who comes to the campaign with 16 wickets in the BBL, adding experience to a young batch of players like Sanchit Sharma and Aayan Khan. A lot of eyes will be on Aayan, who captained UAE to the final of the U19 Asia Cup where they went on to lose the final against Bangladesh. Aayan also represented UAE in the ICC U-19 World Cup in 2022, winning the Player of the Match in a victory over the West Indies with a brilliant knock of 93 runs and one wicket to his name.

Speaking about the rise of these young stars, Lynn has taken the onus on himself and the other experienced international stars in the team to help the UAE players. “Every tournament has their pros and cons. Our job as cricketers is not only to entertain but also to grow the game, and to grow the game in the UAE is very important. Building up the next local talent via the ILT20 is among the biggest challenge in itself,” added Lynn

Head coach Andy Flower has retained most of the stars of the Adani Sportsline-owned team from their 2023 campaign, which ended in triumph as the Giants beat the Desert Vipers to the trophy. They have stuck to their tried and tested core from the first season, including Chris Jordan, their star bowler who took 20 wickets in 10 games in the 1st season of the ILT20, will also be a part of the team.

The Adani Sportsline-owned side have also added the spin maestro Mujeeb Ur Rahman to support Rehan Ahmed and Aayan in what looks like a formidable bowling unit which already had Dominic Drakes, Richard Gleeson and Carlos Braithwaite in the mix.

Facing the Warriors in their first game of the season will be a fitting test of their credentials as defending champions, with a new-look team led by Englishman Tom Kohler-Cadmore and coached by JP Duminy, have been pipped as worthy opponents by head coach Flower, and Lynn reiterated the team’s desire to be champions once again.

“Everyone wearing the Gulf Giants jersey puts the team first. But it is a small recognition of a personal performance and pride. In T20 cricket, sometimes you only need one player to perform with the bat and the ball, and you have your Player of the Match in the dressing room,” concluded the Australia star.

January 18, 2024January 18, 2024 by Abhishek Shukla

85th Sub-Junior and Cadet National TT-Day 3 (Team final)

Indore, January 18: Petroleum Sports Promotion Board Academy (PSPBA) defeated West Bengal 3-1 in the final of the 85th UTT Sub-Junior and Cadet National Table Tennis Championships to hoist the winner’s trophy at the Abhay Prashal Indoor Stadium today.

The result may have gone the way of the top seed, but it did not reflect the gusty performance of the second seed, making it a worthy final in a long time.

After Rupam Sardar’s meek surrender to Sarthak Arya, Soham Mukerjee resisted well to stretch the left-handed Sahil, causing some harrowing moments. As a result, Sahil faltered for the first time, and Soham emerged victorious to restore parity.

Ronald Sarkar paired up with Sahil, and the two posed several questions to the West Bengal pair in the doubles rubber. In the end, Rupam and Soham could not match the guile of their opponents and wilted 2-3, providing PSPBA with a distinct 2-1 advantage. Sahil made up for his second singles loss and defeated Rupam 3-2 after the Bengal player led twice.

Sarthak and Arya are two good finds for the PSPBA. They have delivered in the championships every time they entered the arena, and it was no different in the semifinals this morning. Sarthak found it hard against left-handed Teshub Dinesh in the first game of the opening rubber. After squandering three game points, the PSPBA paddler won 16-14. After that, he never looked back, swiftly finishing the next two games to put his side ahead.

Straightaway, left-handed Sahil went into the attack, and it paid him and his side off with a 2-0 lead against Atharva Nawarange. However, the Karnataka player made most of his opponent’s unforced errors in the third game to pull one back. Beyond that, he could not do much as Sahil wrapped the rubber for a solid lead.

In the doubles, the left-right combination of PSPBA proved a better matchup than the Karnataka pair, also a similar combination. The Karnataka duo had an edge in the first game, but Sarthak and Sahil quickly nullified it and won 12-10. The two coordinated well, and Karnataka did not have an answer to it and ended their team’s campaign with the bronze medal.

But West Bengal’s overall game plan, barring the first-game hiccups, worked so well that they could beat Odisha 3-0 in the second semifinal. Of course, Soham faced some trouble initially with Odisha’s top player, Jigyansu Sahoo. But the Bengal paddler quelled the challenge to win 3-2. For Rupam, it was a cakewalk against Anupam Anindya Das. Rupam disposed of Anupam soon to lead 2-0.

Rupam and Soham faced little resistance in the doubles rubber, as Jigyanshu and Anupam failed to raise their game’s level. After losing badly in the first game, they showed a semblance of a fight, but it came too late and too little.

Nevertheless, Odisha and its players can take pride in whatever they achieved, a bronze medal in the nationals after three failed attempts in their previous events. They were just a step away from the medal rounds, but it seemed far away. But this time, they could not be denied the medals.

The U-11, U-13 and U-15 Boys singles have entered the knockout stages, the finals of which will be played tomorrow along with the doubles events.

Results: U-15 Boys Team: Final: PSPB-A bt West Bengal 3-1 (Sarthak Arya bt Rupam Sardar 11-8, 11-9, 11-6, Sahil Rawat lost to Soham Mukherjee 10-12, 11-3, 8-11, 6-11, Ronald Sarkar/Sahil bt Rupam/Soham 5-11, 11-8, 13-11, 10-12, 11-7, Sahil bt Rupam 5-11, 13-11, 13-11, 7-11, 13-11).

Semi-finals: PSPBA bt Karnataka 3-1 (Sarthak bt Teshub Dinesh 16-14, 11-3, 11-6, Sahil bt Atharva Nawarange 11-5, 11-9, 5-11, 11-7, Sahil/Sarthak lost to Atharva/Teshub 10-12, 6-11, 6-11, Sahil bt Teshub 7-11, 11-6, 11-9, 9-11, 11-9); West Bengal bt Odisha 3-0 (Soham bt Jigyanshu Sahoo 9-11, 15-13, 7-11, 11-8, 15-13, Rupam bt Anupam Anindya Das 11-4, 11-4, 11-5, Rupam/Soham bt Jigyanshu/Anupam 11-3, 11-7, 11-9).

January 18, 2024January 18, 2024 by Abhishek Shukla

First-ever AFC eAsian Cup promises thrilling clashes

Asia’s premier efootball talents are poised to converge in Doha, Qatar, when the inaugural AFC eAsian Cup 2023 unfolds from February 1 to 5, 2024.

Taking place alongside the AFC Asian Cup Qatar 2023™, the event will feature teams from 20 AFC Member Associations that are currently taking part in the 18th edition of Asia’s premier men’s national team competition.

The AFC eAsian Cup will see the 20 teams divided into four groups of three teams and two groups of four. Each team, consisting of two main players and one substitute, will play against the remaining teams in its group twice in 12-minute matches in a 2v2 format.

Played on Konami’s eFootball 2024, the contestants will step on to the virtual pitch using PlayStation 5 consoles.

Group Stage: Day 1

The Group Stage kicks off at 2pm on February 1 with Qatar facing Lebanon in Group A, and Uzbekistan and Syria squaring off in Group B.

Following their battles against Lebanon and Syria, Qatar and Uzbekistan will turn their attention toward their next rivals, Tajikistan and India, respectively at 3pm. At the same time, action in Group C will ensue with the United Arab Emirates (UAE) taking on Hong Kong, China.

More enticing encounters will follow when Vietnam face the challenge of East Asian heavyweights Japan in Group D, and Malaysia square off against Jordan in Group E at 4pm.

In Group D, Vietnam will lock horns with fellow Southeast Asian side Indonesia at 5pm, while Korea Republic in Group E will do battle against Bahrain. Meanwhile, Kyrgyz Republic’s face-off against Saudi Arabia will mark the beginning of action in Group F.

Finally, the excitement of the event’s opening day will draw to an end with battles between Jordan and Korea Republic in Group E, while in Group F, Saudi Arabia spar with fellow West Asians Oman, and Thailand lock horns with the Kyrgyz Republic at 6pm.

Group Stage: Day 2

The Group Stage action will continue on February 2 as battles resume at 2pm with Tajikistan crossing paths with Lebanon in Group A, while Syria play India in Group B.

Meanwhile, at 3pm, Hong Kong, China and the Islamic Republic of Iran in Group C will face each other whereas elsewhere a clash between Japan and Indonesia will wrap up the action in Group D.

At 4pm, matches in Group C will conclude with IR Iran taking on the UAE while at the same time, Bahrain will play their fellow Group E rivals Malaysia.

Following their battle against the ASEAN side, Bahrain will turn their attention to their clash against Jordan at 5pm while, in Group F, Oman will look to come out victorious over Thailand.

Finally, the Group Stage will draw to an end at 6pm when Korea Republic and Malaysia meet in their final Group E tie while, in Group F, Saudi Arabia take on Thailand, and the Kyrgyz Republic play their final matches against Oman.

Mirroring the format of the AFC Asian Cup™, teams finishing in the first and second position in each group, accompanied by the four best third-place finishers will qualify for the Knockout Stage, where the matches in each round will be decided in a best-of-three format.

*All times indicated are in respective local times.

January 18, 2024January 18, 2024 by Abhishek Shukla

AFC Executive Committee (remaining term 2023-2027): Candidates for election announced

In accordance with Article 32.1 of the AFC Statutes (Edition November 2023), the AFC’s Member Associations (MAs) were notified on 30 November 2023, that the election of members for the AFC Executive Committee (remaining term 2023-2027) would be held at the 34^th AFC Congress in Bangkok, Thailand in May 2024.

The MAs had to submit the nomination of their candidates for election to the AFC Executive Committee, as per the requirements set out in the AFC Statutes (Edition November 2023) and the AFC Electoral Code (Edition 2023) for the following positions:

• One AFC Female Executive Committee Member (Central Zone); and
• One AFC Executive Committee Member (East Zone).

Subsequently, the AFC received the following nominations for the above positions:

• One AFC Female Executive Committee Member (Central Zone)

Ms. Mijgona Mahmadalieva (Tajikistan)
Ms. Hurma Kuliyeva (Turkmenistan)

• One AFC Executive Committee Member (East Zone)

Mr. Mong Gyu Chung (Korea Republic)

The nominated candidates will now be required to go through an eligibility check conducted by the AFC Electoral Committee.

In accordance with Article 4.1 of the AFC Electoral Code (Edition 2023), the AFC Electoral Committee will be responsible for all tasks relating to the organisation, running and supervision of the elections.

The final list of candidates will be published at the latest 30 days prior to the 34^th AFC Congress as stipulated in Article 32.19 of the AFC Statutes (Edition November 2023) and Article 9.3 of the AFC Electoral Code (Edition 2023).

January 18, 2024January 18, 2024 by Abhishek Shukla

Odisha gears up to host historic Kolkata derby in Kalinga Super Cup 2024

Bhubaneswar, 18 January 2024: Odisha is yet again set to go into the history books as it gears up to host the historic Kolkata Derby between two football powerhouses, Mohun Bagan Supergiant and East Bengal FC on Friday, January 19, 2024. Both teams will battle it out for the semi-final spot in their last Group A match of the ongoing Kalinga Super Cup 2024 at the iconic Kalinga Stadium in Bhubaneswar.

Odisha’s journey in football has seen it successfully host various marquee tournaments, including the FIFA U-17 Women’s World Cup, Hero Intercontinental Cup 2023, and the India vs. Qatar FIFA World Cup 2026 AFC qualifiers match. The launch of the AIFF-FIFA Talent Academy in the presence of the legendary Arsene Wenger is also a testament to Odisha’s efforts in nurturing and developing football at the grassroots level.

Having built a robust football infrastructure, Odisha is able to host as many as 16 football teams simultaneously for the Kalinga Super Cup 2024. Coaches from both Mohun Bagan Supergiant and East Bengal heaped praise on Odisha’s sports infrastructure.

Mohun Bagan’s Assistant Coach, Clifford Miranda said, “For me Odisha is like home, I have spent a lot of time here recently. The people are very warm here and I must laud the government of Odisha for their approach towards developing football. Football is moving in the right direction in Odisha, not only have they built excellent infrastructure where the quality of the pitches is the best in the country, but they are also using the infrastructure to host national and international tournaments.”

East Bengal Head Coach Carles Cuadrat stated, “I am familiar with Odisha as I have been in India for a long time. The football infrastructure here is exceptional. The pitches are great for training and as always, the accommodation is also great. I must congratulate the government of Odisha for their efforts in football.”

The clash between the oldest football rivals being hosted outside Kolkata is a rare occurrence. On playing the derby at a neutral venue, Carles Cuadrat further added, “I think it is great for Indian football that the derby is happening in Bhubaneswar. We are looking forward to it and are confident that we will have good support from the crowd as well.”

January 18, 2024January 18, 2024 by Abhishek Shukla

Being in a highly-competitive Royals setup pushed me to realise my potential: Dhruv Jurel

National, 18 January 2024: On a quiet Friday night in Ahmedabad, in the middle of India A’s tour match against England Lions, Dhruv Jurel’s phone was suddenly inundated with calls, messages and notifications. It took him a while to come to terms with what transpired in those moments, but the realisation soon dawned on him. A right-hand batter and wicketkeeper, former India U19 vice-captain, and Royals’ emerging star, 22-year-old Dhruv Chand Jurel from Uttar Pradesh was now going to rub shoulders with the likes of Rohit Sharma, Virat Kohli and Royals teammates Ravichandran Ashwin, Yashasvi Jaiswal and Avesh Khan in the same dressing room as part of India’s Test squad for the upcoming England series.

We let Dhruv bask in the sunshine of selection for a bit and then caught up with him to find out more:

Q: What was your first reaction to your India call-up? Where were you? What did your parents say?
A: I was shocked! I was with the India A team, we were playing against the England Lions in a 2-day match. The news broke late in the night and when I found out, I immediately called my father to tell him and his first question was, “Which Indian team? Aren’t you already playing for one of them?”. I said, “The same one in which Virat Kohli and Rohit Sharma play”. He couldn’t believe it. I couldn’t believe it too!

Q. Did anyone from the Royals call/text to congratulate you?
A. Yes, I spoke to Zubin Bharucha (Director of High Performance) sir, got messages from Kumar Sangakarra (Director of Cricket) sir, Siddhartha Lahiri (Support Coach & Head of Coaching, RR Academy) sir, Giles Lindsay (Director of Analytics & Technology), Dishant Yagnik (Fielding Coach) sir. They were all very happy for me. Zubin sir has always backed me and I remember him telling me sometime back that my time was coming soon.

I also got a text from Jos (Buttler) bhai, he said “Good to see you in the Indian team, long way to go”.

Q. On hearing about your India call-up, Kumar Sangakkara in a recent interview complimented your work ethic and demeanour. How does it feel to hear such things from a legend of the game?
A. I read it and honestly, I am just grateful to him and the Rajasthan Royals. All the credit goes to the coaches, support staff, my teammates and the whole franchise. It’s because of them that I’ve been able to come this far in my cricketing journey. They picked me from scratch, I was nowhere near getting into the senior Indian squad. The kind of support I’ve gotten from them has helped me gain that much-needed confidence. Even in the season when I played, Sanju (Samson) bhai told me to express myself freely without worrying about anything.

Q. How have the Royals helped you develop as a player in the past year?
A. There are quite a few off-season camps conducted by the franchise especially to support us not just before the IPL, but throughout the year so that we can go out and perform to the best of our abilities in every tournament we play. It has been very helpful for me, especially having Zubin Sir in the nets, constantly guiding me on things that I can improve. My biggest takeaway from every camp has been that there’s always more to achieve, being in a highly competitive setup like that of the Royals. There are times I’ve spent 7-8 hours at a stretch working on a specific skill set in the nets. It helps me stay focused and be well-prepared whenever an opportunity comes knocking.

Q. From playing for India U19 in limited-overs cricket to representing India A and now the senior men’s squad in red-ball cricket, what are your reflections on your journey so far?
A. As part of India U19, I gained massive exposure playing in foreign conditions and different types of pitches. Then with the Royals, I had a good first IPL season. And that was all white-ball cricket. But then came the longer format, and that’s a different ball game altogether. It took me a while to adapt myself to the demands of red-ball cricket. But with so much practice, training and early experience, I am confident that I can play all three formats equally well.

Q. You’ll be joining the Indian Test squad soon. What are your expectations from the series, sharing a dressing room with senior players and your fellow Royals teammates?
A. The most important learning that I’d want to take away from this series is how to develop the mental fortitude that is needed to survive at the highest level. A lot of players get call-ups, but only a few are able to sustain themselves. Once you’re in the public eye on a much bigger stage, you are constantly judged on your performances. So I really want to know how these players deal with bad days, how they face criticism and pressure. I am going to try and absorb it all.

Q. You and Yashasvi Jaiswal have had parallel cricketing journeys, you are teammates at the Royals and now you will be together once again in the Indian Test team’s dressing room. How does it feel and have you two spoken since the news of your selection?
A. Yashasvi and I go a long way back. We played together in our U19 days and it has always been a lot of fun. I am looking forward to sharing this experience with him too. He was one of the first ones to text me and congratulate, saying “Well-deserved bhai, very happy for you”.

Q. Looking back at your journey so far and where you want to go from here, what’s the one mantra that you’ve always stuck by that has helped you grow as a cricketer?
A. I think it’s being stubborn no matter how many obstacles you face. As a kid, I was always stubborn about wanting to play cricket. Studies were important but deep down I knew I wanted to pursue the sport. It took a while to convince my parents, but then my father stepped up to help me.

I studied in an Army school and during winters, the days would be even shorter in the north. So instead of going home after school and changing into my cricket clothes, my father would bring the clothes to the school and I would change them in the washroom, then rush to the academy to play, and finally be back home by night. That way, I would get two extra hours to practise and they used to be extremely helpful for me.

Despite facing financial constraints and my stubbornness, my family always supported me and I’m eternally grateful for that. My father would stitch up torn batting gloves, get a hanging ball in the room for me to keep hitting, my mother would soak almonds for me so that I’d get all the energy I needed. Everyone in my family is a cricket fan so they got behind me whole-heartedly, even if it took some time and convincing.

Q. One thing you hope to achieve in 2024 – any milestones in your mind?
A. Getting better every day. I have benefited a lot from this. I don’t believe in setting too many expectations for myself, I just want to focus on things I can do better. When I started playing, I only wanted to enjoy my cricket so I would like to continue doing the same.

Interview Credits: Rajasthan Royals

January 18, 2024January 18, 2024 by Abhishek Shukla

Randle and Brunson Combine for 61 Points as Knicks Overcome Rockets 109-94

NEW YORK, NY – The New York Knicks, led by Julius Randle’s 31 points and Jalen Brunson’s 30-point performance, secured a convincing 109-94 victory over the Houston Rockets at Madison Square Garden on Wednesday night. Brunson’s return from a two-game absence due to a bruised left calf was a game-changer for the Knicks, who looked reinvigorated with their point guard back on the floor.

Randle highlighted the impact of Brunson’s return, referring to him as the “head of the snake” and emphasizing how his presence helped organize the team. The Knicks’ offense, which had struggled in a loss to Orlando with Brunson out, found its rhythm again, particularly in the second half where they extended their lead.

Brunson, who faced a tough mental challenge being sidelined, expressed his eagerness to contribute to the team’s success. His return was timely, as he and Randle combined to score more than half of the Knicks’ points.

OG Anunoby added 15 points for the Knicks, who improved to a 24-17 record at the halfway point of their schedule. Josh Hart contributed a double-double with 10 points and 13 rebounds. The win also marked a special occasion for coach Tom Thibodeau, celebrating his 66th birthday with a team victory.

For the Rockets, Fred VanVleet led the scoring with 24 points and 12 assists. Despite his efforts, the Rockets concluded their six-game trip with a 1-5 record, the sole win coming against the Detroit Pistons. Dillon Brooks expressed the team’s determination to regroup and find their form back home.

Alperen Sengun added 18 points and 10 rebounds for Houston, but it wasn’t enough to prevent their eighth consecutive loss to New York. The Knicks effectively took control in the third quarter, outscoring the Rockets and eventually pulling away in the final minutes.

The Knicks continue their four-game homestand with upcoming games against Washington and Toronto. The upcoming match against the Raptors will be the first since last month’s trade that brought Anunoby to New York and sent RJ Barrett and Immanuel Quickley to Toronto.

The Knicks’ improved defense, coupled with the offensive prowess of Brunson and Randle, suggests a strong potential for success in their upcoming fixtures. As for the Rockets, they will aim to bounce back in their next game against Utah, seeking to end their losing streak and regain momentum.

January 18, 2024January 18, 2024 by Abhishek Shukla

Trent Jr. and Barrett Lead Raptors to Dominant 121-97 Win Over Heat

TORONTO, ON – The Toronto Raptors, led by Gary Trent Jr.’s season-high 28 points and RJ Barrett’s 26 points, secured an impressive 121-97 victory over the Miami Heat on Wednesday night. The Raptors’ commanding performance saw them lead by as many as 37 points, despite the absence of forward Pascal Siakam.

Siakam, a two-time All-NBA selection and All-Star, is reportedly being traded to the Indiana Pacers, adding a significant shift to the Raptors’ roster dynamics. Nonetheless, the team didn’t let this impact their on-court performance.

Scottie Barnes added 20 points for Toronto, while Immanuel Quickley had a notable all-around game with 17 points, nine assists, and eight rebounds. Trent Jr.’s return to the lineup after missing a game due to flu-like symptoms was marked by a blistering display of shooting, making a season-high eight 3-pointers on nine attempts.

For Miami, Jimmy Butler led the scoring with 16 points, but it wasn’t enough to overcome their largest halftime deficit in team history. The Heat struggled from the 3-point line, making just six of their 28 attempts, a season-low for the team. Tyler Herro and Bam Adebayo also scored 16 points each, with Duncan Robinson contributing 14 points.

The Raptors’ shooting was a stark contrast to their previous game, setting a season-high with 20 made 3-pointers against the Heat. This impressive shooting display included 7 of 10 from long range in the first quarter alone, helping them build a 41-18 lead.

Toronto’s head coach Darko Rajakovic dedicated the win to fellow Serbian Dejan Milojević, a Golden State Warriors assistant coach who passed away on Wednesday. Rajakovic revealed that the play run on Toronto’s first possession, leading to Trent’s 3-pointer, was one he learned from Milojević.

In the reported trade involving Siakam, Toronto is expected to receive three future first-round draft picks along with guard Bruce Brown and forward Jordan Nwora, both NBA champions. Additionally, the New Orleans Pelicans are said to be involved in the trade, sending Kira Lewis to Toronto.

The Heat, grappling with injuries, missed forward Jaime Jaquez Jr. and Kevin Love. The Raptors were also without center Jakob Poeltl due to injury.

Looking ahead, the Heat will host Atlanta on Friday night, while the Raptors are set to face Chicago on Thursday night. As the season progresses, both teams will aim to build on their performances and adjust to any roster changes.

January 18, 2024January 18, 2024 by Abhishek Shukla

Edwards Leads Timberwolves to 124-117 Victory Over Pistons

DETROIT, MI – The Minnesota Timberwolves clinched a 124-117 win against the Detroit Pistons on Wednesday night, led by Anthony Edwards’ stellar performance of 27 points and eight assists. Despite coach Chris Finch’s reservations about the team’s overall performance, the Timberwolves secured their third consecutive victory.

Karl-Anthony Towns matched Edwards’ scoring output with 27 points, while Jaden McDaniels contributed 23 points. Rudy Gobert added a double-double with 19 points and 16 assists, playing a key role in the team’s success.

Gobert acknowledged the team’s slow start but was pleased with how they improved throughout the game. The Timberwolves overcame their defensive struggles in the first half to limit the Pistons to 117 points by the end of the match.

The Pistons, under coach Monty Williams, are showing signs of growth despite their challenging season, marked by a 28-game losing streak that equaled an NBA record. Jaden Ivey, a bright spot for Detroit, matched his career-high with 32 points, leading the Pistons in scoring. Bojan Bogdanovic and Jalen Duren also made significant contributions, with Bogdanovic scoring 20 points and Duren adding a double-double of 16 points and 11 rebounds.

Detroit’s efforts were notable, particularly in the third quarter when Ivey’s nine points helped narrow the gap to eight. However, the Timberwolves extended their lead in the fourth quarter, with McDaniels and Towns hitting crucial 3-pointers to secure the win.

The Pistons played without Cade Cunningham due to a knee injury and debuted Mike Muscala, who contributed three rebounds, two assists, and two blocks. Muscala and Danilo Gallinari, both acquired from the Washington Wizards, are expected to bring experience and savvy play to the young Pistons team.

Looking ahead, the Timberwolves face the Memphis Grizzlies at home, while the Pistons continue their six-game homestand against the Milwaukee Bucks. As the season progresses, the Timberwolves will aim to build on their winning streak, while the Pistons will focus on development and improving their record.

January 18, 2024January 18, 2024 by Abhishek Shukla

KIYG 2023: Armed with books & jersey, Maharashtra kabaddi player Anuj Gawade sets off for Khelo India Youth Games 2023

Chennai, January 18: When Maharashtra kabaddi player Anuj Gawade started packing his bags for the Khelo India Youth Games 2023, Tamil Nadu, his first instinct was to pack his books along with the playing jerseys considering that his 12th standard board exams are just a month away.

Kabaddi action is scheduled to start at the Jawaharlal Nehru Indoor Stadium on Thursday and Maharashtra boys are keen on challenging the hegemony of Haryana this time around.

And Gawade is determined to put his best foot forward on both fronts. “I wasn’t good at studies, so I focused more on sports. But I don’t want to lose my focus on studies.

“That is why, I brought my books here. I will prepare for the boards whenever I will get the time,” said Gawade, who wants to make his school van driving father proud.

Hailing from Dhanori village in Pune district, Gawade got hooked to the sport after watching his seniors in action.

“In our village, seniors used to play kabaddi, so we started playing too. First at the school level, and gradually we progressed. There is nothing else besides Kabaddi,” says Gawade, who has been playing competitive Kabaddi for last five years.

Initially his parents were worried that he might get injured while playing but have been the pillar of support ever since he started showing good results.

He went on to play in the Yuva Kabaddi series last year but missed the Pro Kabaddi League cut due to age restrictions.

“I want to do a lot for my father. For that, I want to play in the Pro Kabaddi League. I wasn’t selected last year because I didn’t fit the age criteria, but I will play next year,” he says with confidence.

When not immersed in the Kabaddi fervour, Gawade continues to help his parents in the field or does odd jobs. “Working in the field gives me some strength and fitness too,” he explains.

In Chennai, Gawade is hopeful of an all-round display on the mat and off it to make it a journey to remember.

January 18, 2024January 18, 2024 by Abhishek Shukla

Foulkes approved as replacement for Hekmat in New Zealand U19 squad

The Event Technical Committee of the ICC U19 Men’s Cricket World Cup 2024 has approved Robbie Foulkes as a replacement for Rahman Hekmat in the New Zealand squad.

Batting all-rounder Foulkes was named as a replacement after Hekmat was ruled out due to a lumbar bone stress injury sustained during training.

The replacement of a player requires the approval of the Event Technical Committee before the player can be officially added to the squad.

The Event Technical Committee of the ICC U19 Men’s Cricket World Cup 2024 consists of Wasim Khan (ICC General Manager – Cricket and Chair of the ETC), Wanele Mngomezulu (Host Tournament Director), Sarah Edgar (IBC Representative) and Samuel Badree (Independent Representative).

January 18, 2024January 18, 2024 by Abhishek Shukla

Squash: Wildcards Fouts and Douglas Claim Surprise Wins on Day One at the J.P Morgan Tournament of Champions

The prestigious J.P Morgan Tournament of Champions 2024 got underway today in New York City across four different venues with 32 matches taking place to decide the round two match ups.

Event wildcards Caroline Fouts and Andrew Douglas scored big upsets against French duo Melissa Alves and Sebastien Bonmalais to reach the second round in New York for the first time in their careers.

18-year-old Fouts is ranked 50 places below Alves in the current PSA World Rankings but produced a mature performance against the experienced World No.20 to book her place in round two.

The American found herself 2-1 down in the contest but stuck to her aggressive, attacking style to constantly ask questions of Alves and force the Frenchwoman into many difficult situations. After levelling at 2-2, Fouts ran out to a 7-1 lead and didn’t take long to win the deciding game 11-3 and reach the second round of a Platinum event for the first time.

“It’s such a great experience,” said Fouts after her win.

“Last year I had a similar opportunity but I was really grateful to get through in a solid five game match today. I think this year I’ve had more opportunities in bigger events and I’ve learned a lot from the Challenger Tour events that I’ve played. I think I’ve really grown as a player.

“I had the chance to play in a home World Championships in Chicago last year and I’m just so hungry to be in these bigger events. I’m working hard to be in them on merit and more consistently too.”

Andrew Douglas is ranked 20 places below France’s Sebastien Bonmalais but after securing a 2-0 lead with a close 12-10 win in game two, the American went from strength to strength at the New York Athletic Club and closed out the match 3-0 to set up a meeting with defending champion Diego Elias in round two.

Egyptian duo Malak Khafagy and Yahya Elnawasany also scored upsets on day one as they overcame European duo Tesni Murphy (formerly Evans) and Nicolas Mueller at the Nicol Club and Harvard Club to progress.

Day two will see the top seeds enter the tournament with selected action now taking place on the iconic all glass court inside Grand Central Terminal. Glass court action will be available to watch live on SQUASHTV .

Results: J.P. Morgan Tournament of Champions 2024 Men’s RD1

Omar Mosaad (EGY) bt Rory Stewart (SCO) 3-1: 11-9, 13-11, 7-11, 11-9 (59m)

Ramit Tandon (IND) bt Saurav Ghosal (IND) 3-1: 11-3, 8-11, 11-7, 11-7 (49m)

Iker Pajares (ESP) bt Farkas Balazs (HUN) 3-0: 11-8, 11-1, 12-10 (47m)

Gregoire Marche (FRA) bt Leung Chi Hin Henry (HKG) 3-0: 11-6, 11-4, 11-6 (39m)

Faraz Khan (USA) bt Abdulla AL-Tamimi (QAT) 3-1: 11-9, 10-12, 11-3, 11-6 (35m)

Tsz Kwan Lau (HKG) bt Leonel Cardenas (MEX) 3-1: 11-9, 11-9, 9-11, 12-10 (46m)

Yahya Elnawasany (EGY) bt Nicolas Mueller (SUI) 3-1: 6-11, 11-9, 12-10, 12-10 (47m)

Patrick Rooney (ENG) bt Shahjahan Khan (USA) 3-0: 11-4, 11-9, 11-2 (35m)

Greg Lobban (SCO) bt Leandro Romiglio (ARG) 3-0: 11-8, 11-7, 11-7 (39m)

Mohamed Abouelghar (EGY) bt David Baillargeon (CAN) 3-0: 11-3, 11-7, 11-5 (29m)

Nathan Lake (ENG) bt Karim El Hammamy (EGY) 3-1: 9-11, 11-3, 11-5, 11-4 (42m)

Cesar Salazar (MEX) bt Raphael Kandra (GER) 3-1: 11-9, 6-11, 12-10, 11-8 (45m)

Auguste Dussourd (FRA) bt Nicholas Spizzirri (USA) 3-1: 11-6, 11-8, 7-11, 11-4 (43m)

Youssef Ibrahim (EGY) bt Timothy Brownell (USA) 3-1: 11-7, 8-11, 11-7, 11-5 (43m)

Nick Wall (ENG) bt Curtis Malik (ENG) 3-0: 11-2, 11-2, 11-2 (18m)

[WC] Andrew Douglas (USA) bt Sebastien Bonmalais (FRA) 3-0: 11-5, 12-10, 11-5 (32m)

Results: J.P. Morgan Tournament of Champions 2024 Women’s RD1

Tomato Ho (HKG) bt Emilia Soini (FIN) 3-0: 11-8, 11-7, 11-2 (23m)

Malak Khafagy (EGY) bt Tesni Murphy (WAL) 3-1: 13-11, 4-11, 11-2, 11-6 (40m)

Lucy Beecroft (ENG) bt Ineta Hopton (LAT) 3-1: 11-9, 11-2, 9-11, 11-3 (31m)

Georgia Adderley (SCO) bt Grace Gear (ENG) 3-0: 13-11, 11-2, 11-6 (30m)

Fayrouz Aboelkheir (EGY) bt Anna Serme (CZE) 3-0: 11-2, 11-4, 11-2 (16m)

Hana Ramadan (EGY) bt Millie Tomlinson (ENG) 3-0: 11-4, 11-4, 11-6 (23m)

Nicole Bunyan (CAN) bt Hollie Naughton (CAN) 3-0: 11-3, 11-7, 11-6 (26m)

Hana Moataz (EGY) bt Ka Yi Lee (HKG) 3-1: 13-15, 11-9, 11-3, 11-7 (39m)

Sana Ibrahim (EGY) bt Salma Eltayeb (EGY) 3-0: 11-7, 13-11, 11-9 (39m)

Lucy Turmel (ENG) bt Charlotte Pastel (USA) 3-0: 11-3, 11-4, 11-0 (22m)

Nadine Shahin (EGY) bt Nour Aboulmakarim (EGY) 3-1: 11-7, 11-5, 8-11, 11-5 (31m)

[WC] Caroline Fouts (USA) bt Melissa Alves (FRA) 3-2: 10-12, 11-8, 7-11, 11-8, 11-3 (57m)

Emily Whitlock (WAL) bt Enora Villard (FRA) 3-1: 11-4, 8-11, 11-3, 11-4 (38m)

Zeina Mickawy (EGY) bt Kenzy Ayman (EGY) 3-2: 12-10, 8-11, 11-1, 11-13, 11-6 (42m)

Mariam Metwally (EGY) bt Marie Stephan (FRA) 3-0: 11-5, 11-8, 11-1 (22m)

Rachel Arnold (MAS) bt Tsz-Wing Tong (HKG) 3-0: 11-7, 11-9, 11-7 (29m)

Draw: Men’s RD2 – to be played 18 January

[1] Ali Farag (EGY) v Omar Mosaad (EGY)

Baptiste Masotti (FRA) v Ramit Tandon (IND)

Iker Pajares Bernabeu (ESP) v Gregoire Marche (FRA)

Faraz Khan (USA) v [8] Tarek Momen (EGY)

[7] Marwan Elshorbagy (ENG) v Tsz Kwan Lau (HKG)

Youssef Soliman (EGY) v Victor Crouin (FRA)

Yahya Elnawasany (EGY) v Aly Abou Eleinen (EGY)

Eain Yow Ng (MAS) v [3] Paul Coll (NZL)

Draw: Women’s RD2 – to be played 18 January

[1] Nour ElSherbini (EGY) v Sarah-Jane Perry (ENG)

Tomato Ho (HKG) v Malak Khafagy (EGY)

Lucy Beecroft (ENG) v Georgia Adderley (SCO)

Farida Mohamed (EGY) v [8] Olivia Weaver (USA)

[5] Georgina Kennedy (ENG) v Salma Hany (EGY)

Fayrouz Aboelkheir (EGY) v Hana Ramadan (EGY)

Satomi Watanabe (JPN) v Nicole Bunyan (CAN)

Hana Moataz (EGY) v [3] Hania El Hammamy (EGY)

Draw: Men’s RD2 – to be played 19 January

[4] Mostafa Asal (EGY) v Patrick Rooney (ENG)

Greg Lobban (SCO) v Mohamed Abouelghar (EGY)

Nathan Lake (ENG) v Mohamed Elsherbini (EGY)

Cesar Salazar (MEX) v [5] Mohamed Elshorbagy (ENG)

[6] Mazen Hesham (EGY) v Auguste Dussourd (FRA)

Fares Dessouky (EGY) v Miguel Rodriguez (COL)

Youssef Ibrahim (EGY) v Nick Wall (ENG)

[WC] Andrew Douglas (USA) v [2] Diego Elias (PER)

Draw: Women’s RD2 – to be played 19 January

[4] Nele Gilis (BEL) v Sana Ibrahim (EGY)

Rowan Elaraby (EGY) v Lucy Turmel (ENG)

Amina Orfi (EGY) v Nadine Shahin (EGY)

[WC] Caroline Fouts (USA) v [7] Tinne Gilis (BEL)

[6] Nour ElTayeb (EGY) v Emily Whitlock (WAL)

Sabrina Sobhy (USA) v Sivasangari Subramaniam (MAS)

Zeina Mickawy (EGY) v Mariam Metwally (EGY)

Rachel Arnold (MAS) v [2] Nouran Gohar (EGY)

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