by Abhishek Shukla

UKK: Odisha Juggernauts defeat Mumbai Khiladis to reach top spot, Telugu Yoddhas beat Rajasthan Warriors

Cuttack, December 27, 2023: Defending champions Odisha Juggernauts returned to winning ways in the ongoing Ultimate Kho Kho Season 2 with a 31-28 victory over Mumbai Khiladis, while Telugu Yoddhas defeated Rajasthan Warriors 38-28 by a big margin at the Jawaharlal Nehru Indoor Stadium in Cuttack on Wednesday.

Odisha Juggernauts have now secured the top spot in the points table with eight points from three matches, while Telugu Yoddhas have claimed the second position with a total of six points.

Promoted by Amit Burman in collaboration with the Kho Kho Federation of India, Ultimate Kho Kho became a huge hit in the first season, emerging as India’s third-largest non-cricket league in terms of television viewership. It also became the first Indian sports league to secure Series A funding, courtesy of the UK-based BNP Group.

Chasing first, Mumbai Khiladis made a balanced start to the match as they did not give any dream run bonus points to the defending champions early on. However, they only managed to grab 14 points in the first turn as Odisha returned to the contest by claiming 14 points during the following turn.

Mumbai went into the second inning with a point advantage courtesy of a dream run bonus point in the second turn. They further won 12 points in the third turn and allowed Odisha to earn a dream run bonus point as well.

The last turn turned out to be in the favour of the defending champions as they attained 16 points with sublime attacking to register a remarkable victory.

Earlier, Rahul Mandal proved to be the star of the match for Telugu Yoddhas with 10 points. Pratik Waikar and Aditya Ganpule also contributed to the team’s victory by staying on the mat for more than 3.95 minutes to earn dream run bonus points during the defence.

Rajasthan Warriors took a dream run bonus point early on in the first turn before Telugu Yoddhas fought back valiantly and claimed 18 points while chasing. The Yoddhas showcased the same determination when they switched to defence as they earned two dream run bonus points, allowing Rajasthan to grab only 12 points.

Telugu Yoddhas began the second inning on a positive note and took a significant lead after scoring 18 points in the third turn. Rajasthan earned a dream run bonus point, but they failed to surpass Telugu’s score in the last turn and only managed to secure 14 points.

Rajasthan Warriors will now take on Chennai Quick Guns on Friday, while Telugu Yoddhas will go up against table-toppers Gujarat Giants.

The exciting action of Season 2 will be telecasted on Sony Sports Network’s channels and SonyLIV with live coverage of daily two matches starting at 7:30 PM IST. 

by Abhishek Shukla

PKL 10: Jaipur Pink Panthers erase 13-point deficit to tie 32-32 with Dabang Delhi K.C.

CHENNAI, 27th December: Dabang Delhi K.C. and defending champions Jaipur Pink Panthers played out a nail-biting 32-32 tie in the Pro Kabaddi League Season 10 match at the SDAT Multipurpose Indoor Stadium in Chennai on Wednesday. Ashu Malik was the star for Dabang Delhi K.C. with 7 raid points on the night.

Dabang Delhi dominated the proceedings and it took them only 8 minutes to inflict the first ALL OUT. The defence collectively pounced on Ajith Kumar and the side soared to a 10-4 lead. They coasted along and maintained their lead, but Naveen’s injury in the 14th minute was a cause of concern. The injury notwithstanding, Dabang Delhi continued their dominance on the mat and got a second ALL OUT in the 17th minute to lead 20-10.

Jaipur Pink Panthers’ star raider Arjun Deshwal could not manage a single touchpoint in the first half, while the Dabang Delhi defenders enjoyed a 100% tackle strike rate and led 23-11 at the break.Ashu Malik took over the raiding responsibilities in Naveen’s absence and did well on his part, but the Jaipur Pink Panthers upped the tempo in the second half. Arjun picked up a handful of bonus points, while Ankush showcased one of the best defensive performances of the season. Operating from the left corner, he brought the Pink Panthers within 6 points of the Delhi side when he executed a perfect tackle on Manjeet. That tackle saw him complete a High 5 and the scoreline read 26-20 in Delhi’s favour with 10 minutes to go.

Arjun saved his best for the final few minutes as he got multiple raid points before deploying a superb ankle hold on Vishal Bhardwaj to inflict an ALL OUT. With a little over 5 minutes left, the Pink Panthers trailed by 3 points at 29-26.Arjun then got a touch on Manjeet a minute later to level the scores at 29-29 and the Pink Panthers made a remarkable comeback to erase a 13-point deficit. It appeared like Delhi would sneak away with a narrow win, but an error from Vikrant, who stepped out of bounds before making a tackle, in the dying stages of the game saw the Pink Panthers get a point and level the scores again at 32-32. Thereafter, Ashu Malik decided to run down the clock and settle for a tie.

Please find below the schedule for PKL Season 10 match on Friday

Game 1 – Patna Pirates vs Haryana Steelers – 8 pm

Game 2 – U.P. Yoddhas vs Bengaluru Bulls – 9 pm

Venue: Noida

Season 10 of the Pro Kabaddi League will be broadcast live on the Star Sports Network and for free on Disney+ hotstar.

by Abhishek Shukla

Biggest Cricket World Cup ever smashes Broadcast and Digital records

The ICC Men’s Cricket World Cup 2023 hosted in India smashed broadcast and digital records across the world, making it the biggest World Cup ever.

The event, which saw Australia crowned champions for the sixth time, registered a record 1 trillion global live viewing minutes of broadcast, which included new technological innovations such as the vertical video feed, providing fans with an easier and more intuitive viewing experience on their mobile devices.

The global live viewing hours were an increase of 38% from the last edition of the tournament held in the Indian sub-continent, in 2011, and by 17% compared to 2019 when it was held in the United Kingdom.

The final between India and Australia at the Narendra Modi Stadium, the biggest cricket stadium in the world, became the most watched ICC match ever. There were 87.6 billion live viewing minutes globally, representing a 46% growth compared with the 2011 final that featured co-hosts India and Sri Lanka.

The event was carried by a total of 20 broadcast partners across 209 territories. For the first time, Hindi coverage was made available outside India by ESPN+, Fox Sports, Sky Sports and Willow TV.

ICC Chief Executive Geoff Allardice said: “We are delighted to announce the record-breaking viewership and engagement numbers for the Men’s Cricket World Cup 2023, making it the biggest World Cup ever. The incredible numbers continue to show the increased appetite for ICC events across the world and the consumption of innovative and engaging content that fans can enjoy.”

The viewership numbers are staggering across territories, most notably in host country India, where it became the most watched Cricket World Cup ever, with 422 billion viewing minutes on the Disney Star Network alone, resulting in a whopping 54% increase from 2011 and a significant 9% rise from 2019.

The tournament was the most broadcast in India, about five times more hours of coverage compared to 2011, thanks to the 22 channels that showcased the tournament across nine different languages (English, Hindi, Marathi, Gujarati, Bengali, Tamil, Telugu, Kannada & Malayalam).

The female viewership share rose from 32% for the 2011 edition of the ICC Men’s Cricket World Cup to 34% this year, reflecting the universal excitement surrounding the country’s home tournament. The final between the hosts and Australia became the most watched Men’s Cricket World Cup match ever with a peak TV audience of 130 million, with a total of 300 million people watching it on the Disney Star network on linear alone in India.

The 2023 edition was also the most broadcast tournament in the United Kingdom and Australia that saw huge jumps in viewership compared to 2011 when it was played in the same time zone.

The UK saw 800 hours of live coverage and 5.86 billion minutes (of live viewing compared to 4.74 billion minutes) in 2011, a 24% increase. In Australia, there were 602 hours of live coverage with 3.79 billion minutes of live viewing, 92% more than the 1.98 billion minutes recorded in 2011.

Coupled with Australia’s success, this led to significant increase in overall audience with 9.1 million people watching India 2023 compared to the 2019 edition in England and Wales which saw 6.1 million tune in.

Pakistan saw record viewership with 237.10 billion viewing minutes of live viewing. The corresponding figures were 230.49 billion minutes in 2019 and 220.63 billion minutes in 2011.

The 2023 edition was the most shown World Cup in South Africa and saw a 32% increase in viewership from 2019 with 5.01 billion minutes of live coverage watched.

Similar was the case in the United States, where 395 hours of live coverage made it the most broadcast Cricket World Cup, the coverage hours rising 14% from 2019. The final was the most watched match with 48 million live viewing minutes, 47% more than the second most watched (India vs Pakistan). Nine of the 10 most watched games in the US featured India.

The decision to make coverage freely available for mobile users via Disney+ Hotstar in India led to a whopping 295 million LIVE Tournament viewers tuning in. Across the event, there were five world records broken on Disney+ Hotstar for digital peak concurrency, with the final attracting cricket’s highest concurrent audience ever, having already made history at four other 2023 World Cup matches, demonstrating the appeal of cricket and the excitement the ODI format continues to offer:

  1. India vs Australia (Final) – 59 million peak concurrent viewers
  2. India v New Zealand (Semi-Final) – 53 million peak concurrent viewers
  3. India v South Africa – 44 million peak concurrent viewers
  4. India v New Zealand (Group match) – 43 million peak concurrent viewers
  5. India v Pakistan – 35 million peak concurrent viewers

More records were broken on ICC platforms, with this World Cup becoming the most digitally engaged ever with an astonishing 16.9 billion video views, an 158% increase from the previous record set at the ICC Men’s T20 World Cup 2022 in Australia. Engagements on ICC social channels also saw a massive increase with a record 1.23 billion, an increase of 142% from the ICC Men’s T20 World Cup 2022 and 155% from 2019 edition in England and Wales.

These numbers reflected the ICC’s commitment to bring fans closer to the event no matter where they were in the world, whether it was showcasing India through the ‘It Takes One Day’ preview shows or going behind-the-scenes with teams after huge match wins like Australia’s victory in the final (19 million video plays on Instagram) or Afghanistan’s upset of Pakistan.

Having some fun and reimagining Glenn Maxwell’s cramp-afflicted heroics after his undefeated double-century against Afghanistan also had a major audience impact with 50 million video plays on Instagram. And host nation hero Virat Kohli’s Player of the Tournament feats created huge engagement, including a hug with his idol Sachin Tendulkar attracting 40 million video plays on Instagram after breaking his ODI centuries record (78 million video plays on Instagram) to his World Cup wicket with the ball (39 million video plays on Instagram).

The ICC’s partnership with Meta, which included the Meta Creator Squad India collaborating with players ahead of the event and the launch of the Meta Super 50 creators that shared their behind-the-scenes mobile view of matches through the tournament, also contributed to the various digital records broken and helped cricket reach new audience cohorts. Princy Parikh’s translation skit with Kane Willamson (128 million video plays on Instagram) was the most-watched piece of the entire event, which saw a total of 16.3 billion video plays across Meta channels (9.7 billion on Facebook and 6.6 billion on Instagram).

Web and app platforms set a record for users, with 97.5 million unique users for the event, a 29% increase from the 2019 edition. Page views on icc-cricket.com were also up to 704 million, totaling a 96% increase from a year ago at the Men’s T20 World Cup in Australia.

by Abhishek Shukla

Slovakia Secures Second Straight Win with 3-0 Shutout Over Switzerland at World Juniors

Slovakia’s goaltender Adam Gajan delivered an exceptional performance with a 36-save shutout, leading his team to a 3-0 victory over Switzerland in the World Junior Championship at Frolundaborg. Samuel Honzek’s goal in the first period proved decisive, marking Slovakia’s first 2-0 start at the World Juniors since 2002.

The match opened with a relatively calm first period, characterized by limited scoring opportunities, primarily against the Swiss. A notable moment came when Swiss defender Rodwin Dionicio’s risky pass was intercepted by Slovak Peter Repcik, whose powerful shot was expertly saved by Swiss goalie Alessio Beglieri. The deadlock was broken by Honzek, who capitalized on Repcik’s setup at 8:33.

Switzerland, under Coach Marcel Jenni’s guidance, returned with renewed vigor in the second period, dominating play and effectively neutralizing Slovakia’s offensive thrusts. Despite this, they were unable to equalize, and Slovakia nearly extended their lead when Honzek was awarded a penalty shot but failed to convert.

Swiss efforts to level the score were continually thwarted by Gajan’s remarkable goaltending, particularly evident in his stops against Leo Braillard’s close-range attempts. The third period saw continued Swiss pressure, with Gregory Weber and Miles Muller missing critical chances to score. Even a short-handed breakaway by Rico Gredig didn’t yield the much-needed Swiss goal.

Slovakia’s Repcik and Servac Petrovsky eventually sealed their team’s victory with empty-net goals, despite Switzerland’s sustained dominance in play for significant periods.

With this win, Slovakia takes a day off before their next game against Norway, while Switzerland faces a challenging encounter against the United States in their next game at Frolundaborg. This victory not only showcases Slovakia’s defensive resilience but also sets a promising tone for their campaign in the tournament.

by Abhishek Shukla

CAF and Orange renew Partnership reinforcing shared commitment to football development, equality and inclusion in Africa

The Confédération Africaine de Football (“CAF”) and Orange have renewed their long-standing Partnership, reinforcing their shared commitment to football development, equality and inclusion in Africa.

Orange has been an exclusive telecommunications partner for CAF since 2008.

The scope of the renewed Partnership between CAF and Orange includes CAF’s most anticipated tournaments namely the TotalEnergies CAF Africa Cup of Nations Cote d’Ivoire 2023, the TotalEnergies Women’s Africa Cup of Nations Morocco 2024 and the CAF Africa Cup of Nations Morocco 2025.

The new Partnership has been amended to enable Orange to focus its commitments on delivering connectivity, equality and inclusivity. Central to the Group’s sponsorship strategy is how Orange will leverage the power that sport has to connect customers and fans across Africa and the Middle East, evident in three key areas: Gender equality, Inclusion and Orange Tous Connectés.

CAF President Dr Patrice Motsepe said: “Orange has been a great supporter and partner of African Football for many years. We are excited to continue working together with Orange to make African Football amongst the best in the world and self-supporting. The TotalEnergies CAF Africa Cup of Nations in Cote d’Ivoire is expected to be watched by over 800 million people and we are delighted that Orange is our partner for this Competition and the CAF Africa Cup of Nations Morocco 2025. Our Partnership with Orange will also support the development and growth of Women’s football on the African Continent.”

Jérôme Henique, CEO of Orange Middle East and Africa comments: “Orange is a long-term and loyal partner of football in Africa and the Middle East. Our commitment to African football spans more than 20 years, and we’re proud to host over 40 football partnerships in countries across the region, including national teams as well as numerous various youth, academy and university programmes across several countries. We’re delighted to continue this important work with CAF to co-create and drive real change through common objectives.”

The partnership between CAF and Orange rest on three pillars namely:

  • Gender equality: Orange has committed to delivering 50/50 representation across Orange’s sponsorship portfolio, promoting equal access and opportunity. This builds on our active partnership of the Women’s Africa Cup of Nations and specific programmes since 2018.
  • Inclusion: by leveraging the footprint of Orange Digital Centers, Orange is dedicated to engaging, educating and connecting young people. Through this partnership with CAF, Orange will develop dedicated programmes to support young players to develop their digital skills and training. For example, Orange aims to teach coding skills to youth by using football content and challenges to inspire them. From simple football games to tournament stats, we can use the sport they love to engage them in coding while building valuable digital skills.
  • Orange Tous Connectés: Orange Tous Connectés is a platform which will ensure that Orange customers benefit from seamless service continuity and connectivity to enjoy, share and participate in the sport they love.
by Abhishek Shukla

ISL Preview:  Crucial points at stake as Mumbai City FC, Chennaiyin FC seek confidence going into the season break

Mumbai, 27th December, 2023: Mumbai City FC and Chennaiyin FC will take on each other at the Mumbai Football Arena (MFA) to round off their runs in the first half of the Indian Super League (ISL) 2023-24 campaign on December 28, Thursday. Both these teams come into this match on the back of defeats in their respective previous encounters. The Islanders were dealt with a disappointing 2-0 loss by the Kerala Blasters FC in Kochi, whereas the Marina Machans went down to Punjab FC by 1-0 in New Delhi last week.

For Mumbai City FC, the result down south was their first defeat in the ISL this season. Two goalless draws and a loss to Kerala Blasters FC in their previous four encounters, suggest that there’s ample room for improvement. Head Coach Kratky will be keen to sign off 2023 on a high, but that would mean overcoming a Chennaiyin FC unit that can be really dangerous on their day.

Owen Coyle has had a mixed bag of results with the club so far. Coyle has said repeatedly that they are looking at a long-term perspective at the moment. Their collective aim in this campaign appears to be to finish in the top-six and then bank on Coyle and his excellent game-management skills to go as deep into the competition as possible. Nothing could be a bigger boost to those ambitions than potentially defeating the Mumbai City FC in their own backyard.

What’s at stake?

Mumbai City FC

There is a lot of thinking that Kratky must have resorted to after the game in Kochi. Mumbai City FC was arguably swept aside from the game by the Kerala Blasters FC, and that perhaps signalled that the difference in quality amongst the higher ranked teams in the ISL is gradually bridging. Post some prominent departures aside from last season, they did solidify their squad in the summer and must be demanding more from themselves.

Chennaiyin FC is ideally the best opposition for them to get things back on track, as the Islanders have been unbeaten in their last six matches against the Marina Machans. However, the visitors pack a punch whenever they are in the City of Dreams; having beaten the Islanders thrice away from home in the ISL over the past 9 editions. The Marina Machans have conceded the joint-most goals in the ISL this season (19), along with Bengaluru FC and Hyderabad FC. The Islanders will be eyeing exploiting that, even as an opportunity to regain some of their goal-scoring rhythm that has faded away slightly since their clash against Bengaluru FC.

Chennnaiyin FC

Chennaiyin FC is a team that likes to play on the frontfoot, but they need to be smarter with their defensive arrangement in this encounter. Mumbai City FC forwards operate at their best when they spot vacant spaces across the opposition’s backline. Coyle should ensure that his side does not shed their natural instincts but also be simultaneously wary of the threats that the Islanders can pose in certain phases of the game.

Coyle has a win percentage of 60% against Mumbai City FC in the ISL (P5 W3 D1 L1), which is his joint highest against any team (also Mohun Bagan Super Giant – P5 W3 L2). The tactician has in fact averaged two points per game against the Islanders in the competition, again the joint most alongside Hyderabad FC (P6 W3 D3). That coupled with Chennaiyin FC’s impressive record at the MFA should bring in confidence within the side to deliver an encouraging performance in the coming match.

Chennaiyin FC have to strike the perfect balance between their offensive endeavours and defensive duties in this fixture. They cannot forgo the opportunity of securing a point in search of a victory, and this is where Coyle’s game awareness will come into play. Their approach right from the offset of this match will be one to keep close tabs on.

Key Players

Lallianzuala Chhangte (Mumbai City FC)

Lallianzuala Chhangte’s outputs have taken a visible hit in the first-half of this campaign, having netted once and assisted twice in 10 matches thus far. Last season, Chhangte had scored 10 goals and secured six assists in 22 appearances, thus being crowned with the Golden Ball award. The number of minutes that he has been allowed on the field has dipped too. In 2022-23, Chhangte was averaging 84.31 minutes per game, whereas it has dropped to 59.6 minutes in this ISL season until now.

He returning to his optimal form will be essential for Mumbai City FC to fire from all cylinders. There is a small record that he must be hoping to claim as well, with Chhangte being one away from registering his 50th win in the ISL, and in doing so he will become the 19th Indian player to achieve the feat in competition history. He will be keen to make a mark against his former club, with whom he had finished runners-up in the 2019-20 campaign. That was perhaps the breakout year for Chhangte, netting seven times in 21 appearances, and he will be targeting an impactful outing against the Marina Machans on Tuesday.

Rafael Crivellaro (Chennaiyin FC)

The Brazilian attacking midfielder is the fulcrum around which the Chennaiyin FC attacking moves revolve. He connects their midfield to the frontline, demonstrating sublime skillsets inside the box to control the ball, playing precise passes to fellow forwards in key positions, slowing the game down and taking his time to make the right decisions at important junctures. Crivellaro has scored thrice and made five assists so far this season, recording a goal contribution every 112.65 minutes. He will be instrumental in helping the visitors unlock the Mumbai City FC defence, which has conceded only nine times in the league this season. Whether Chennaiyin FC sees adequate time on the ball and puts pressure back on the home team remains to be seen though.

Head-to-Head

Played – 18

Mumbai City FC – 9

Chennaiyin FC – 6

Draws – 3

Trivia: 67% of Chennaiyin FC’s goals (10 out of 15) in the current ISL season have come in the first half of the games.

Team Talk


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“We reflected and reviewed (the last game). There were a lot of positive things but also things that we need to improve on. We addressed that, worked on that. We stick to our processes. It’s a good experience for the group to understand that we can be defeated as well. But, we need to keep moving forward,” Mumbai City FC head coach Petr Kratky said in the pre-match press conference.


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“Anytime you play any opponent, you mention about players missing for Mumbai, nobody has more players missing than Chennaiyin FC, with the injuries we have. It happens in football. The ones who are available, we have to do the best with them,” Chennaiyin FC head coach Owen Coyle remarked.

ISL Fantasy

Rafael Crivellaro (7.7cr)

Eight goal contributions in ISL 2023-24

Jorge Pereyra Diaz (8.7cr)

Six goals this season so far

Bipin Singh (7.4cr)

Scored and grabbed an assist in Mumbai City FC’s last win at home

If not registered already, fans can participate in the overall league or club-based leagues based on their preferences. Create private leagues, inviting friends and fellow football aficionados to compete. Prizes include a Sony PlayStation ®️ ️5 gaming console, EA Sports FC 24, signed club merchandise, and a Gift Card worth INR 20,000, which will be awarded to 100 winners at the end of the season. Sign up at: https://fantasy.indiansuperleague.com/

Where to Watch

Fans across the country can catch the action in English, Hindi, Bengali, and Malayalam. Fans can watch the action on linear channels like Sports18 Khel (Hindi), Sports18 1 SD & HD (English), Sports18 3 SD (English, Hindi, Malayalam and Bengali), VH1 SD & HD (English), Surya Movies (Malayalam) & DD Bangla (Bengali). In addition to this, as part of FSDL’s partnership with OneFootball, ISL live streams and highlights of all matches of the upcoming 2023-24 season will be delivered across more than 190 countries.

Points Table


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by Abhishek Shukla

Day 7 Results: 2nd Khelo India Sub Junior Women’s Hockey League – Phase 1

New Delhi, 27th December 2023: Day 7 of the 2nd Khelo India Sub Junior Women’s Hockey League – Phase 1 witnessed SAI Shakti Team, Khelo India Hockey Excellence Centre Chhattisgarh, SAI Bal Team and Jai Bharat Hockey Academy winning their respective matches.  

SAI Shakti Team wins big:    

In the first match of the day, SAI Shakti Team defeated Raja Karan Hockey Academy 28-0. Purnima Yadav (4’, 34’, 35’, 42’, 45’, 49’, 54’) scored seven goals, Captain Kajal (3’, 6’, 22’, 29’, 50’, 60’) scored six goals, Binati Minz (2’, 9’, 25’, 56’) and Ravina (15’, 20’, 38’, 55’) scored four goals each, Shweta (12’, 57’) and Sakshi (24’, 59’) scored braces while Navroop Kaur (7’), Tammanna (14’) and Nisha Dadel (18’) scored a goal each for SAI Shakti team.  

Odisha Naval Tata Hockey High Performance Centre wins close game:   

In the second match of the day, Khelo India Hockey Excellence Centre Chhattisgarh defeated Odisha Naval Tata Hockey High Performance Centre 2-1. Doli Bhoi (18’) of Odisha Naval Tata Hockey High Performance Centre scored the first goal of the match by converting a penalty corner. Akshita (23’) equalized for Khelo India Hockey Excellence Centre Chhattisgarh five minutes later before Madhu Sidar (28’) put them in the lead late in the second quarter. They held on to the lead to win the match 2-1.  

SAI Bal Team has it easy: 

In the third match of the day, SAI Bal Team defeated Ghumanhera Riser’s Hockey Academy 12-0. Vandana Patel (17’, 52’, 57’) scored a hat-trick, Riya (15’, 27’), Tanisha Ekka (30’, 48’) and Sisliya Sandi Purty (38’, 53’) scored braces and Jyoti Xaxa (26’), Nidhi (42’) and Lalpeksangi (55’) scored a goal each for SAI Bal Team.  

Jai Bharat Hockey Academy overcomes Bhai Behlo Hockey Academy, Bhagta: 

In the fourth match of the day, Jai Bharat Hockey Academy defeated Bhai Behlo Hockey Academy, Bhagta 3-1. The first goal of the match was scored by Bhai Behlo Hockey Academy, Bhagta and it came from Anjali (6’). However, a brace from Nisha (23’, 45’) and a field goal from Captain Annu (51’) meant that Jai Bharat Hockey Academy would win the match 3-1.  

by Abhishek Shukla

Shubham Dubey: Vidarbha’s blue-eyed boy takes off on dream IPL journey

Nagpur, 27 December 2023: 220 runs, 7 innings, a monstrous strike rate of 185+ and a blazing 58 off 20 balls as an ‘Impact Player’ in Vidarbha’s highest-ever run-chase at the Syed Mushtaq Ali Trophy 2023, Shubham Dubey’s timing to leave a lasting impression couldn’t have been better.

The left-handed middle-order batter had little idea that his life was about to take a drastic turn just one month later, at the IPL 2024 Auction. Delhi Capitals opened the bid for the 29-year-old uncapped player, whose base price was set at INR 20 lakh. The Royals soon joined them, and thus began the war of bids that went well beyond the realm of anyone’s imagination. Let alone that of an excited Shubham, who was watching all the action unfold right in front of his eyes. The Royals eventually had the final say, signing the hard-hitter up for a whopping INR 5.8 crore, knowing well and truly what the Nagpur-based cricketer brought to the table.

We caught up with Shubham for a quick, exclusive tête-à-tête soon after the auction madness and just in time before his phone got bus(ier).

Q. What was your first reaction when Rajasthan Royals bought you at the IPL 2024 auction? Where were you when it happened?
I had mixed feelings ahead of the auction because I had no idea which team would pick me. So that excitement was always there. On the day of the auction, I started with my usual practice. With the Ranji Trophy coming up, all my preparations are focused on that tournament. I had a good outing in the Syed Mushtaq Ali Trophy so I was confident about my chances. Honestly, I didn’t expect the bidding to be so high so that was a pleasant surprise. The way the bids kept shooting up one after the other was astonishing to watch. My parents were sitting right across from me in the room when this happened, so watching them get emotional was a priceless moment for me. I touched their feet immediately after and thanked god as well because, without their blessings, this wouldn’t have been possible. My brother and close friends were present with me at home, and they were all very happy for me.

Q. Tell us a bit about your journey. When did you first start playing cricket?
Just like thousands of other kids in the country, my cricket journey also started in typical fashion. When I was in school, I would play gully cricket in the neighbourhood, and watch the Indian cricket team on television. At that time, I would get very excited to watch the likes of Sourav Ganguly, Virender Sehwag, etc. So I started playing locally with a few of my friends. I come from a very humble background, my family couldn’t afford to buy a full-fledged cricket kit but my father still managed to buy me one. Then one of my uncle’s friends suggested I should get enrolled in a club called ‘Advocate XI’ that trains talented young kids who can’t afford to pay fees for free.

It was there that I first saw Faiz Fazal, who was Nagpur’s Ranji Trophy captain at the time. His personality, the confidence he carried and the way everyone treated him with so much respect made me feel I wanted to reach that level too. He’s also a left-handed batter so I could relate to him even more. So I joined the club and started practising regularly and eventually got a chance to play matches at the club level. I would like to thank the Vidarbha Cricket Association (VCA), they gave me plenty of opportunities at the camps. One day, a coach asked me about my fees and I burst into tears because I couldn’t afford to pay it. He then started providing me with gloves, pads, etc. as I continued to play well and score runs. He also got me to play matches at the U-19 and U-23 levels, and then I went on to become the club captain. In my final year of U-23 cricket, coach Sudhir Wankhede gave me a chance to play in the Bapuna Cup and I scored some runs there. That was the moment I thanked him and decided that cricket was indeed what I wanted to pursue going forward. From then on, my hard work resulted in opportunities here and there, and I never looked back.

Q. Who was your inspiration growing up?
As a kid, I enjoyed watching cricket overall on television but I never thought I would become a cricketer. I loved watching Yuvraj Singh and the way he used to hit the big shots. I have also grown up playing a lot of tennis-ball cricket as back then, players would get paid to play in such competitions. I also like MS Dhoni and I know that he also played tennis-ball cricket in his early days before he took over Indian cricket.

Q. How did your family support your dream?
My parents have been incredibly supportive of my decision right from my childhood. They never forced me to do something else despite our struggling financial situation. My father is a modest man who took up odd jobs to support the family, right from operating a paan stall to working as a hotel manager, to even getting into real estate. My mom is very religious, even she didn’t stop me from chasing my dream. I would assure both of them that something good will come out of this and if I play well, it can also open up doors to employment as I had seen my friends getting jobs because of playing cricket.

Q. When was the first time you interacted with Rajasthan Royals? Any particular moment you remember?
A chance visit to the Royals’ High-Performance Centre in Talegaon (Nagpur) with a friend just after the pandemic led me to meet Romi sir (Romi Bhinder, Team Manager) and Zubin sir (Zubin Bharucha, Director of High Performance). When I went there, I saw Yashasvi Jaiswal practising in the nets and I was in awe of the facilities and the huge ground there. Cut to this year, I was there once again for the trials and that’s when Zubin sir took notice of my batting. He said to me, “You have the potential and the calibre, now we need to give it the finishing touches. It’s not just about playing in the IPL, but also beyond that and your ability to do that is clearly visible.”  

Q. Which teammate/coach are you looking forward to meeting in the IPL 2024 season?
Sanga (Kumar Sangakkara) sir for sure. I have followed his journey till his retirement and he is such a respected figure in the cricketing fraternity. He was also a lefty like me so just being around him will surely be a learning experience for me. I can’t wait to get going!

Q. What was the first thing that came to your mind after the auction? What is it that you want to do first?
There are a lot of people who have helped me reach this stage of my life. And I’ve found my biggest supporters in my family. My twin brother took care of the house financially without letting the pressure affect me, my parents were right behind me through thick and thin. Even on my worst days, when I was injured and out of action for a while, they encouraged me and kept me in a positive state of mind. I want to give them the comfort and happiness they deserve, so I wish to first buy a house for the family.

I’ve been fortunate to have friends who would always lend a helping hand, whether it was giving me a ride to the grounds when I had no other means of transport, or bowling to me day in, day out at the nets, or just introducing me to coaches, academies, from where I could carve my path. I would like to give back to them in whichever way possible to express my gratitude towards them.

Q. What is your favourite batting position?
I just want to win the match for my team, be it at any position. The fact that I am flexible in the batting order works well in my favour.

Q. What can fans expect from you in the upcoming IPL season?
The most important thing for me is to repay the franchise that has shown so much faith in me. And the only way to do it is through my performances so I’ll try my best to do that.

by Abhishek Shukla

U Mumba secures eight sponsors with a 60% increase valuation in PKL Season 10

Mumbai, December 27, 2023: U Mumba, backed by eight brands, has garnered maximum sponsorship with a valuation increase of 60% in the latest edition of the Pro Kabaddi League. Amassing these sponsorships is a testament to the growing stature of Brand U Mumba and the strong appeal and vision that the Mumbai team has in Kabaddi across India.

U Mumba had signed top sports news portal Melbat Live as its Title Partner and has partnered with Macho Hint as its powered by Partner, a millennial and Gen Z-focused brand in the innerwear category which is a sub-brand category from the stables of renowned brand, Macho.

For the Associate Partner category, U-Mumba has onboarded six brands led by Rajdhani Besan, pioneers in producing agro-food products in India, along with pioneering construction firm Je & Vee Infrastructures, and internationally acclaimed beauty, skincare, personal care, and cosmetic products manufacturer Vi John.

Great White Electricals, innovators in the home electrics space, the Indian Public Sector Bank, Bank of Maharashtra, and the well-renowned footwear brand, Abros Shoes are all also donning the Mumbai colours in Season 10.

Suhail Chandok, CEO of U Mumba commenting on the team’s high marketability, said, “We are thrilled to welcome some new distinguished partners & the return of a couple too, to the U Mumba family. United by a shared vision of the brand’s identity, values, offerings, and success, we are confident that we will be able to elevate and inspire brand loyalty for U Mumba to new heights. We have a strong vision in place for the growth we want to see for our team and the trust placed in us by these esteemed brands is a testament to the value we have meticulously built over the years, showcasing the power of brand recognition. Our Indian sport of Kabaddi has truly taken the world by storm and continues to be a trusted vehicle for brands that need a targeted platform to reach a massive consumer base that is pan-India.”

U-Mumba has also forged collaborations with 92.7 Big FM; Nivia, a noteworthy homegrown sports brand; Swades Foundation, a premier NGO in Mumbai; Fast&Up, a foremost nutrition provider and Baller Athletik, India’s pioneer in energy-enhancing transformative clothing as promoting partners for the season.

According to the ‘India Sports Sponsorship Report 2023’ by GroupM, Sports Sponsorship in India recorded a figure of INR 5907 Cr ($Mn 748) in 2022 with a growth of 105%. Emerging sports witnessed an overall revenue of INR 1503 Cr ($Mn 190), which in YoY terms represents an incremental value of INR 829 Cr ($Mn 104).

U Mumba is set to take on Telugu Titans next in their Pro Kabaddi League match in Noida on the 30th of December before the Pro Kabaddi caravan moves to Mumbai for U Mumba’s Home leg starting on the 5th of January.

 Broadcast Audience Research Council (BARC) India stats showed the opening weekend of PKL Season 10 alone witnessed 80.1 million viewers, clocking a 32% increase from the 2022 season, with consumption increasing by 27% to 2.7 billion minutes over just the first 4 matches.

by Abhishek Shukla

Nalyssa Smith Crowned EuroCup Women MVP for December After Stellar Performances with Galatasaray

MUNICH, Germany – In a display of exceptional basketball prowess, Nalyssa Smith has been named the EuroCup Women’s Most Valuable Player (MVP) for December, following a series of remarkable performances for Istanbul-based team Galatasaray Cagdas Factoring. Smith’s dynamic presence on the court has been a key factor in propelling her team into the EuroCup Women’s Round of 16.

Throughout the Play-Off Round 1, Smith demonstrated her basketball acumen, achieving an impressive efficiency valuation of 31.5. This feat was underscored by her phenomenal scoring ability, as she consistently shot over 60 percent from the field in both games, averaging a remarkable 28.0 points per game.

Smith’s contributions, however, extended beyond her scoring capabilities. She also showcased her prowess in rebounding, nearly achieving a double-double for the month with an average of 9.5 rebounds per game. This all-round performance highlights her versatility and importance to Galatasaray’s success.

The forward began her spectacular month with a vital role in securing a rare draw for Galatasaray Cagdas Factoring in the first leg of the Play-Off Round 1 against MB Zaglebie Sosnowiec. The game concluded in a 90-90 tie, with Smith contributing an outstanding 31 points and 12 rebounds.

In the second leg, with the advantage of playing on their home court, Smith continued her dominant form. She was instrumental in Galatasaray’s convincing 91-65 victory over MB Zaglebie Sosnowiec, leading her team with 25 points and 7 rebounds, and thus securing their place in the next stage of the competition.

Smith’s recognition as the EuroCup Women MVP for December is a testament to her exceptional talent and impact on the game. Her performances have not only been pivotal for Galatasaray Cagdas Factoring’s current success but have also elevated her status in women’s basketball. As the EuroCup Women competition progresses, Smith’s influence on the court will undoubtedly be a key factor in her team’s pursuit of further success.

by Abhishek Shukla

Six RSPB boxers eye title at the 7th Elite Women’s National Boxing Championships

Greater Noida, December 27, 2023: The Railway Sports Promotion Board (RSPB) was on track to walk away with six gold medals at the 7th Elite Women’s National Boxing Championships held at the GBU Indoor Stadium in Greater Noida.

In the semifinals held on Tuesday, Anamika (50kg), Jyoti (52kg), Shiksha (54kg), Sonia Lather (57kg), Nandini (75kg) and Nupur (81+kg) stormed into the final of the tournament.

Anamika, last year’s runner-up in the 50kg category, will take on Haryana’s Kalpana to improve her medal at the competition. In the semi-finals, Anamika got the better of Manipur’s Maibam Rosemary Chanu with a referee stopped contest decision in the second round. While Kalpana decimated her opponent Ekta Saroj of Punjab 5-0.

In the 52kg bout, the referee had to yet again step in to stop the contest when Assam’s Bhupali Hazarika could not match Jyoti’s flurry of punches. Jyoti now faces Shvinder Kaur Sidhu in the summit clash after the All India Police (AIP) pugilist forced Maharashtra’s Simran Verma abandon the bout in Round 3.

For 2022 Commonwealth Games bronze medallist Jaismine of Services Sports Control Board (SSCB) Menka Devi of Himachal Pradesh was no match as she marched on with 5-0 victory in the 60kg category. On the other hand, Simranjit Kaur Baatth also scored 5-0 win to set up title clash with Jaismine.

In the 63kg category, AIP’s Sonu continued her run to the final after she scored 5-0 win over Uttar Pradesh’s Rinky Sharma. Sonu will take on Haryana’s Prachi whose fight against Telangana’s Niharika Gonella earned her a 5-0 verdict.

Ankushita Boro, the Youth World Champion, thundered her way into the 66kg final with 5-0 verdict over Himachal Pradesh’s Deepika. Services Sports Control Board’s Arundhati Choudhary will be waiting for Boro in the final clash after defeating Nagaland’s Sanju 5-0.

Assam’s Bhagyabati Kachari stood no match for Saweety Boora of Haryana in the 81kg weight category. Saweety, the 2023 World Championship gold medallist, faced little challenge from her opponent as she won 5-0. Saweety, last year’s gold medallist in the same category will look to retain her title when she clashed with Mizoram’s Lalfakmawii Ralte, who defeated AIP’s Sushma 4-1.

Defending Heavyweight champion Nupur, who had an easy 5-0 outing against Elura Borgohain, will be all prepared to repeat her last year’s performance against Haryana’s Ritikia. The Haryana boxer impressed the judges against Monika to enter the final.

The prestigious tournament, organized by the Boxing Federation of India, has witnessed the participation of more than 300 boxers competing in 12 categories.

by Abhishek Shukla

Hoque, Kapp move up in MRF Tyres ICC Women’s ODI Player Rankings

Bangladesh opener Fargana Hoque and South Africa’s new-ball bowler Marizanne Kapp have made notable gains in the MRF Tyres ICC Women’s ODI Player Rankings after their ICC Women’s Championship series which South Africa won 2-1.

Hoque, who scored 102 in the second match in Potchefstroom, has advanced two slots to a career-best 13th position while Kapp has inched up one place to eighth after returning identical figures of two for 21 in the second and third matches of the series, which counted towards the latest weekly rankings update.

Sune Luus has progressed three slots to 22nd after scores of 47 not out and 34, Tazmin Brits is up 32 slots to 41st after scores of 50 and 118, while Anneke Bosch has jumped 71 places to 70th following a match-winning 65 not out off 63 balls in the second match.

Nadine de Klerk (up four places to 19th) and Nonkululeko Mlaba (up six places to 24th) are the bowlers from the home side to move up the table.

For Bangladesh, leg-spinner Rabeya Khan has advanced four slots to 52nd while Ritu Moni has progressed in both lists – up eight places to 68th among batters and up four places to 90th among bowlers.

by Matt Windsor (US)

NBA: Harden, George Lead Clippers to 113-104 Victory Over Hornets

LOS ANGELES — James Harden’s explosive first-half performance, scoring 20 of his 29 points, fueled the Los Angeles Clippers’ comeback for a 113-104 win over the Charlotte Hornets on Tuesday night, snapping their two-game losing streak. Paul George contributed significantly with 25 points, while Ivica Zubac dominated inside, adding 18 points and 14 rebounds.

The victory marked a much-needed rebound for the Clippers, who had been struggling without Kawhi Leonard, sidelined with a left hip contusion. The team had previously enjoyed a nine-game winning streak before facing two consecutive defeats, including a heavy loss against the Boston Celtics.

Russell Westbrook stepped up in Leonard’s absence, providing a dynamic presence off the bench with 14 points, 11 rebounds, and six assists in 28 minutes. Coach Tyronn Lue commended the team’s defensive effort and praised the collective response in Leonard’s absence.

The Hornets, stuck in a tough eight-game losing streak and a disappointing December, saw Miles Bridges lead their effort with 21 points and 11 rebounds. Terry Rozier and P.J. Washington each added 18 points, but the absence of LaMelo Ball due to an ankle injury since late November continued to impact their performance.

Despite Charlotte’s energetic third-quarter play, which included a significant 26-9 run, the Clippers regained control in the final quarter. Key three-pointers during a decisive 19-2 run helped them establish a commanding lead, with Zubac scoring critical points.

George’s consistent outside shooting, including five three-pointers, and Harden’s overall scoring prowess were instrumental in securing the win. The Clippers demonstrated their depth and adaptability, emphasizing their “next man up” mentality.

Looking ahead, the Hornets will face the Los Angeles Lakers on Thursday, while the Clippers are set to host the Memphis Grizzlies on Friday, aiming to maintain their momentum.

by Richard Miller (US)

NBA: Simons Scores 29, Trail Blazers Surge Past Kings 130-113

PORTLAND, Ore. — Anfernee Simons’ stellar 29-point performance propelled the Portland Trail Blazers to a convincing 130-113 win over the Sacramento Kings on Tuesday night. Duop Reath’s career-high 25 points and nine rebounds off the bench played a crucial role in Portland’s victory, especially with key players Deandre Ayton and Shaedon Sharpe sidelined due to injuries.

The Trail Blazers, who aimed for a strong start and improved home play, achieved their goal under Coach Chauncey Billups’ guidance. Malcolm Brogdon added 19 points, while Scoot Henderson and Jabari Walker each contributed 17 points off the bench.

Henderson’s playmaking was particularly noteworthy, as he dished out a career-high 11 assists with only one turnover, showcasing his unselfish style and playmaking abilities.

Despite a heroic effort from De’Aaron Fox, who scored 43 points, and Domantas Sabonis with 34 points, the Kings struggled as they lacked other significant contributors. Coach Mike Brown expressed concern over Sacramento’s defensive performance, highlighting it as a persistent issue.

Looking ahead, the Trail Blazers face back-to-back home games against the San Antonio Spurs on Thursday and Friday. The Kings, on the other hand, will travel to Atlanta for their next game on Friday, looking to bounce back from the defeat.

by Abhishek Shukla

WWE NXT Results: Thrills and Surprises in the Ring on December 26, 2023

In a spectacular display of athleticism and drama, WWE NXT’s latest event on December 26, 2023, saw high-stakes matches and surprising outcomes.

  • OTM Triumphs Over Chase U: In a critical match, OTM (Bronco Nima and Lucien Price) emerged victorious against Andre Chase and Duke Hudson of Chase U. This win not only solved OTM’s financial woes but also earned them a future Tag Team Title Match against Tony D’Angelo and Stacks.
  • Noam Dar Retains NXT Heritage Cup: Defending champion Noam Dar successfully retained his title against a valiant Josh Briggs. Briggs, fighting without his usual support, succumbed to frustration and was disqualified, handing Dar the victory.
  • Cora Jade Overcomes Karmen Petrovic: In a tightly contested match, Cora Jade triumphed over Karmen Petrovic. Despite Petrovic’s innovative karate-style offense, Jade’s experience and resolve led her to victory, continuing her winning streak since her return.
  • Riley Osborne Advances in Breakout Tournament: Riley Osborne booked his place in the NXT Men’s Breakout Tournament finals by defeating Lexis King. The match saw Osborne capitalize on a moment of retribution from Trey Bearhill against King.
  • Bron Breakker Outshines Nathan Frazer: In a clash of power versus speed, Bron Breakker defeated Nathan Frazer. Frazer almost caused an upset, but Breakker’s sheer strength, culminating in a decisive spear, ensured his win.
  • Oba Femi Moves Closer to Tournament Glory: The NXT Men’s Breakout Tournament semifinal witnessed Oba Femi overpowering Tavion Heights in an intense battle, bringing him one step closer to tournament glory.
  • Joe Gacy’s Triumphant Return: Joe Gacy marked his return with a win against Joe Coffey, aided by an unexpected assist from Hank Walker & Tank Ledger.
  • Eddy Thorpe Dominates in NXT Underground Match: In a brutal NXT Underground Match, Eddy Thorpe emerged victorious over Dijak. The intense bout saw both competitors push their limits, but Thorpe’s resilience led to a stoppage victory, earning him a standing ovation.

This event was a showcase of determination, skill, and the unexpected, keeping the NXT Universe on the edge of their seats.

by Abhishek Shukla

Olympic and World Champion Pole Vaulter Katie Moon Is the International Event Ambassador for Tata Mumbai Marathon 2024

Mumbai, 27th December:  Two-time pole vault World Champion and 2020 Olympic gold medalist Katie Moon is the International Event Ambassador for the 19th edition of the Tata Mumbai Marathon to be held on Sunday, January 21, 2024. Promoted by Procam International, the Tata Mumbai Marathon is a World Athletics Gold Label Race.

It was the first time in the history of the World Championships that a Gold medal was shared jointly between two participants. This instilled in her a deep respect for the sport and her fellow competitors as well. The 32-year-old, American Pole Vaulter will be defending her title in the 2024 Paris Olympics. 

The solo Olympic medalist has clinched three medals at the World Athletics Championships: a silver in the 2022 World Indoor Championships in Belgrade, and a gold medal at the 2022 Eugene and 2023 Budapest World Athletics Championships. In 2023, she also won the top slot in the Diamond League. Moon hit a streak with two medals in 2018 alone: a gold at the Toronto NACAC Championship and a silver in the London Athletics World Cup. In the consecutive year, Moon pocketed a silver in the 2019 Lima Pan American Games. In her early childhood, she competed as a level 4 gymnast and diver, while in pole vaulting, she graduated with a state record of 3.97 m (13 ft 0 in).

Katie Moon International Event Ambassador for Tata Mumbai Marathon 2024, said, “While running the race of life, every step is an opportunity to inspire and make a difference. I am deeply honoured to be named the International Event Ambassador for Tata Mumbai Marathon 2024, where each stride carries the spirit of resilience, determination, and community. I look forward to inspiring and being inspired by the incredible participants as we come together to celebrate the power of human potential and the pursuit of excellence. Let’s lace up Mumbai, and run towards a healthier, and happier future!”

Vivek Singh, Jt MD, Procam International, said, “We are thrilled to welcome Katie Moon to our Tata Mumbai Marathon family as the esteemed International Event Ambassador. With her unparalleled sporting spirit, competitiveness, passion for excellence, and dedication to making a positive impact, we’re confident she’ll inspire countless others to join us on this incredible journey!”

Tata Mumbai Marathon is one of the top 10 marathons in the world. With a prize money of USD 405,000, Tata Mumbai Marathon 2024 will witness participation from across the globe.

by Steve Murphy PL

Hojlund’s Late Heroics Cap United’s Stunning Comeback in a 3-2 Thriller Against Aston Villa

Old Trafford, Manchester: In an enthralling encounter at Old Trafford, Manchester United staged an incredible second-half comeback to edge past Aston Villa 3-2, with Rasmus Hojlund’s late strike sealing a dramatic victory. Despite trailing 2-0 at the interval, United’s resilience shone through, overturning the deficit to snap a three-game winless streak in the Premier League.

First Half: Villa’s Dominance
Manchester United, seeking redemption after their loss at West Ham, made significant changes, introducing Raphael Varane, Diogo Dalot, Christian Eriksen, and Marcus Rashford. Unai Emery’s Villa, eyeing the summit of the table, brought in Ezri Konsa and Leander Dendoncker for this crucial fixture.

The match began evenly, with both sides jostling for control. Villa’s breakthrough came in the 21st minute when John McGinn’s free-kick, a blend of precision and fortune, found its way into the net. This marked a historic moment – Villa’s first direct free-kick goal away from home since 2014, interestingly, also at Old Trafford.

The visitors doubled their lead shortly after, with Dendoncker showing remarkable agility to turn in a goal following a set-piece situation, leaving United stunned and the Villa fans ecstatic.

Second Half: United’s Remarkable Resurgence
United’s response was emphatic after the break. Alejandro Garnacho, embodying the team’s renewed spirit, saw an initial goal disallowed by VAR but remained undeterred. His persistence paid off in the 59th minute when he combined with Rashford to reduce the arrears.

The momentum visibly shifted, and Old Trafford roared in anticipation. Garnacho, the man of the moment, found the net again in the 71st minute, his effort deflecting past a hapless Emiliano Martinez.

As the game continued to swing like a pendulum, Jonny Evans’ heroics at the back denied McGinn a brace and kept United in the hunt.

Hojlund’s Decisive Moment
The stage was set for a dramatic climax, and Hojlund, who had endured a goal drought in his previous 14 appearances, chose the perfect moment to open his Premier League account. Capitalizing on a failed clearance, his volley ricocheted in off the post, completing an astonishing turnaround.

Conclusion: United’s Grit Secures Three Points
Despite a nervy additional nine minutes, Erik ten Hag’s men showed commendable defensive solidity to fend off Villa’s late surges. This victory not only revitalized United’s campaign but also dealt a blow to Villa’s aspirations, halting their 11-game unbeaten run across all competitions.

The match, a testament to the unpredictability and excitement of the Premier League, will be remembered for United’s fighting spirit and Hojlund’s moment of redemption. As Old Trafford erupted in jubilation, United’s belief in their resurgence under ten Hag was visibly reinforced.

by Abhishek Shukla

Odisha geared up to host Junior and Senior Artistic Gymnastics National Championships 2023-24

Bhubaneswar, 27 December 2023: The Sports and Youth Services Department, Government of Odisha, is all geared up to host the Junior and Senior Artistic Gymnastics National Championships for the 2023-24 season at the Gymnastics Centre, Kalinga Stadium, Bhubaneswar. In association with the Odisha Gymnastics Association and the Gymnastics Federation of India, the championship will see top gymnasts across the country showcasing their skills at the national stage.

The Junior Championship will be held from 28-30 December 2023, while the Senior Championship will take place from 2-4 January 2024 in the state capital. A total of 750 participants, including 550 players, 120 support staff and 100 officials from across the country are expected to take part in what will be a grand showcase of gymnastics prowess.

The championship will see the participation of 28 affiliated units from the Gymnastics Federation of India, highlighting a diverse and competitive field. Athletes from across the nation will converge, bringing their skills and dedication to the forefront at the Gymnastics Centre which is equipped with advanced equipment and facilities used to train both senior and grassroots-level athletes.

Speaking ahead of the event, Sports & Youth Services Secretary, Odisha, Vineel Krishna said, “Gymnastics is amongst our priority sports. We have a strong pool of gymnasts in Odisha and we are absolutely delighted to host the Junior and Senior Artistic Gymnastics National Championships 2023-24. It is an apt opportunity for our gymnasts to learn from the best. We are working closely with the Gymnastics Federation of India and Odisha Gymnastics Association to ensure the junior and senior gymnasts have the best of experience in Odisha. I extend a warm welcome and wish the very best to all the participants.

Sudhir Mital, President, Gymnastics Federation of India, stated, “We are pleased to host the Junior and Senior Artistic Gymnastics National Championship here in Bhubaneswar which has the best of infrastructure and facilities to conduct a National Championship.  This championship will give the entire junior and senior participants experience of showcasing their skills at world class venue. We are thankful to the Government of Odisha and the Odisha Gymnastics Association for their support and leaving no stone unturned in the preparations for hosting the National Championships.”

The championship will have intense competition among the best gymnasts in the country, both in the Junior and Senior categories. The Senior Championship will feature the likes of Olympian Pranati Nayak, Yogeshwar Singh, Rakesh Patra, Tapan Mohanty, Saif Tamboli, Gaurav Kumar and others.

In July 2023, Honourable Chief Minister Naveen Patnaik inaugurated the Odisha AM/NS India Gymnastics High Performance Centre at Kalinga Stadium that trains some of the finest gymnasts in the country.

by Matt Windsor (US)

NBA: DeRozan, Drummond Lead Bulls to 118-113 Win Over Hawks

CHICAGO — The Chicago Bulls, led by DeMar DeRozan’s 25 points and Andre Drummond’s impressive double-double, secured a 118-113 victory over the Atlanta Hawks on Tuesday night. Drummond, in his first start of the season, posted season-highs with 24 points and 25 rebounds.

The Bulls managed to contain Hawks’ star Trae Young, who finished with 21 points and 13 assists, ending his streak of seven consecutive games with at least 30 points and 10 assists. Chicago’s win comes despite missing key players Zach LaVine and Nikola Vucevic due to injuries.

DeRozan’s second-half performance, where he scored 21 of his 25 points, was pivotal for the Bulls. His 11 points in the fourth quarter, including crucial baskets in the last three minutes, were instrumental in sealing the win. DeRozan expressed his thrill in delivering in clutch moments, likening it to his childhood dreams.

Drummond, who replaced the injured Vucevic, made a significant impact, shooting 11 of 13 and playing 39 minutes. He expressed his belief in still being a starter-quality player in the league.

Coby White and Ayo Dosunmu each contributed 19 points for Chicago. Despite struggling from the three-point line, the Bulls executed well enough to overcome their loss to Cleveland in the previous game.

For Atlanta, Bogdan Bogdanovic led the scoring with 22 points, while Dejounte Murray added 17 points, breaking his streak of consecutive 20-point games.

The game saw its fair share of lead changes and was tied at 106 before Alex Caruso’s three-pointer gave the Bulls a crucial edge. DeRozan’s key baskets in the closing stages helped Chicago maintain their lead.

Jalen Johnson returned for Atlanta after missing several games due to a wrist injury, contributing 10 points in his first game since late November.

With Vucevic sidelined due to a groin injury and LaVine still recovering, the Bulls could be facing a challenging period ahead. Vucevic’s timeline for return remains uncertain after an MRI, and LaVine has started light cutting as part of his recovery process.

Looking ahead, the Hawks will host Sacramento on Friday, while the Bulls face Indiana on Thursday.

by Richard Miller (US)

NBA: Haliburton’s Heroics Lift Pacers Over Rockets 123-117

HOUSTON — Tyrese Haliburton’s standout performance, featuring 33 points and 10 assists, led the Indiana Pacers to a 123-117 victory over the Houston Rockets on Tuesday night. Haliburton’s go-ahead three-pointer in the final minute was pivotal in snapping the Pacers’ three-game losing streak and securing their first road win since December 7.

Haliburton, who went 13 of 21 from the field, including 7 of 13 from beyond the arc, emphasized the game’s significance, labeling it a ‘must-win.’ Pacers coach Rick Carlisle praised the highly competitive nature of the game, which saw 15 lead changes and six ties.

Alperen Sengun was a bright spot for the Rockets, contributing 30 points and 16 rebounds, following up on his career-high 37 points in Houston’s recent win over New Orleans. Sengun also added five assists and four steals but acknowledged the Pacers’ offensive strength and clutch shooting.

Fred VanVleet’s layup gave Houston a brief lead late in the game, but Haliburton’s shooting prowess ultimately prevailed. VanVleet finished with 18 points and nine assists.

The Pacers’ third-quarter performance was crucial, with Haliburton’s trio of three-pointers sparking a 12-2 run. Despite being outscored 74-44 in the paint, Indiana capitalized on three-point shooting, making 19 of 43 attempts.

The Rockets had the upper hand at halftime, leading 67-64, bolstered by Tari Eason’s aggressive play, including a steal and dunk to end the first quarter. Eason contributed 16 points and eight rebounds off the bench.

Injuries played a role, with Rockets forward Dillon Brooks exiting in the third quarter with an abdominal strain. The Pacers were without Reggie Bullock Jr. and Bruce Brown due to illness and injury, respectively.

The Pacers next face the Chicago Bulls on Thursday night, while the Rockets host the Phoenix Suns on Wednesday.

by Matt Windsor (US)

NBA: Morant Leads Grizzlies to 116-115 Overtime Win Against Pelicans, Extending Winning Streak to 4-0

NEW ORLEANS — Ja Morant continued his impressive comeback, scoring 31 points to lead the Memphis Grizzlies to a thrilling 116-115 overtime victory against the New Orleans Pelicans on Tuesday night. Since Morant’s return, the Grizzlies have gone 4-0, marking a significant turnaround from their 6-19 record during his absence.

Desmond Bane played a crucial role, scoring 27 points, including a critical three-pointer in the final minute of regulation that helped the Grizzlies erase a 15-point second-half deficit. Bane’s free throw in the closing seconds of overtime proved decisive, putting Memphis up by four points.

Jaren Jackson Jr. contributed 19 points, recovering from a missed free throw at the end of regulation with key baskets in overtime to secure the lead for Memphis.

Morant, named the Western Conference Player of the Week, has been averaging 28.8 points since returning from a 25-game suspension related to his conduct on social media. His resurgence began with a 34-point game against New Orleans on December 19, including a game-winning shot.

For the Pelicans, Zion Williamson had 23 points and 11 rebounds, while Brandon Ingram added 24 points and four blocks. Jonas Valanciunas contributed a double-double with 17 points and 13 rebounds, and CJ McCollum scored 16 points. However, the Pelicans’ efforts weren’t enough to prevent their second consecutive home loss.

The game’s climax came in a dramatic last few seconds, filled with video reviews and foul calls. Morant’s near-miss shot led to a defensive foul being overturned upon review. A subsequent jump ball and foul call against Valanciunas on Jackson led to Jackson’s free throws, tying the game at 103. Jackson missed the second free throw, sending the game into overtime.

Marcus Smart, returning from injury, added 13 points for Memphis, including a key transition layup in overtime. His defensive prowess was on display with five steals.

Looking forward, the Grizzlies will face Denver on Thursday night, while the Pelicans will host Utah on the same day.

by Richard Miller (US)

NBA: Gilgeous-Alexander’s 34 Points Fuel Thunder in 129-106 Rout of Timberwolves

OKLAHOMA CITY — Shai Gilgeous-Alexander’s impressive 34-point outing, paired with Jalen Williams’ 21 points, propelled the Oklahoma City Thunder to a commanding 129-106 victory over the Minnesota Timberwolves on Tuesday night. The Thunder’s efficient shooting from beyond the arc was a key factor, making 18 of their 39 three-point attempts.

Chet Holmgren and Lu Dort each contributed 20 points for the Thunder (19-9), who excelled in their three-point shooting, posting a 46.2% success rate. Their defensive effort was equally notable, forcing 24 Minnesota turnovers, which led to 23 points.

Gilgeous-Alexander, who was 14 of 19 from the field and led with nine assists, emphasized the team’s cohesive play. Dort’s 5-of-6 shooting from the three-point line was a highlight, as the Thunder shot an impressive 60.5% from the field and led by as much as 25 in the second half.

Thunder coach Mark Daigneault praised the team’s intelligent approach against a tough Minnesota defense.

Anthony Edwards led the Timberwolves (22-7) with 25 points, while Mike Conley added 17 and Karl-Anthony Towns contributed 16. Towns, returning from a missed game due to knee soreness, couldn’t help Minnesota overcome the Thunder’s offensive onslaught.

Josh Giddey made a successful return to the Thunder’s starting lineup after missing a game with an ankle sprain, recording 10 points and seven assists.

Despite Holmgren’s fourth foul and Giddey’s foul trouble, the Thunder extended their lead, highlighted by Dort’s fifth three-pointer of the game. Minnesota attempted a comeback, narrowing the gap to nine points, but couldn’t sustain the momentum.

Daigneault noted the team’s intensity and the turnovers as key factors in their win. Williams’ back-to-back three-pointers in the fourth quarter further solidified the Thunder’s dominant position.

The game was competitive in the first half, with both teams showing proficiency from the three-point line. The Thunder led 66-60 at halftime, bolstered by Gilgeous-Alexander’s 16 points and Williams’ 15.

Looking ahead, the Timberwolves will host the Dallas Mavericks on Thursday, while the Thunder welcome the New York Knicks on Wednesday.

by Richard Miller (US)

NBA: Markkanen’s Double-Double Leads Jazz to 130-118 Win Over Spurs

SAN ANTONIO — Lauri Markkanen’s commanding performance of 31 points and 12 rebounds propelled the Utah Jazz to a 130-118 victory over the San Antonio Spurs on Tuesday night. The Jazz managed to turn around a slow start and secure the win, with significant contributions from Jordan Clarkson and Collin Sexton.

Clarkson added 24 points and eight assists, while Sexton contributed 20 points, including an impressive self-assisted 360-degree dunk early in the second half. The dunk, a result of Sexton’s spontaneity, was both praised and seen as a risky move by Utah coach Will Hardy.

Keldon Johnson led the scoring for the Spurs with 26 points, supported by Devin Vassell with 22, Jeremy Sochan with 19, and Victor Wembanyama with 15. The Spurs, now at 4-25, are still trying to find consistency after ending an 18-game losing streak, their worst in franchise history.

The Jazz, at 13-18, have seen a resurgence with three consecutive wins and six in their last eight games after an initial 2-7 start to the season.

Wembanyama, a key player for the Spurs, returned after missing two of the past three games with a right ankle injury. He had a well-rounded performance with seven rebounds, five blocks, and four assists in 25 minutes, despite the earlier injury concerns.

San Antonio initially led by 15 points in the first quarter, thanks to a strategic change of bringing Johnson off the bench. Julian Champagnie, starting in Johnson’s place, added a quick eight points early in the game. He finished with 16 points, leaving a strong impression on coach Gregg Popovich.

The Spurs opened the game with sharp shooting, especially from the three-point line, but Utah responded with a 23-9 run that bridged the first and second quarters. Markkanen and Clarkson combined for 18 points in the second quarter, shifting the momentum in Utah’s favor.

Clarkson’s performance was particularly noteworthy as he continued his trend of strong outings against the Spurs, averaging 16.7 points in 26 games against them. Coach Hardy commended Clarkson’s evolution into a more versatile player, particularly in his playmaking abilities.

The Spurs are currently struggling with the Western Conference’s worst record and are second only to the Detroit Pistons in the NBA standings.

Looking ahead, the Jazz will play against New Orleans on Thursday, while the Spurs will face Portland on the same day.

by Matt Windsor (US)

NBA: Pistons Set Unwanted NBA Record with 27th Straight Loss as Nets Prevail 118-112

DETROIT — The Detroit Pistons etched their name in the NBA record books for an undesirable reason, losing their 27th consecutive game, a 118-112 defeat to the Brooklyn Nets on Tuesday night. This loss surpasses the previous single-season record held by the 2010-11 Cleveland Cavaliers and 2013-14 Philadelphia 76ers.

Despite a valiant 41-point effort from Cade Cunningham, the Pistons (2-28) couldn’t avoid setting the record. Cunningham’s second-half performance, scoring 37 points, was a highlight for Detroit, but he lacked sufficient support from his teammates. Bojan Bogdanovic was the only other Piston to score more than 15 points, with the rest of the team shooting just 36.2%.

Pistons coach Monty Williams acknowledged the challenging situation, emphasizing the responsibility that comes with coaching.

For the Nets, Cam Johnson led with 24 points, and Mikal Bridges contributed 21. Nic Claxton and Day’Ron Sharpe added double-doubles, helping the Nets secure their second consecutive win against the Pistons.

Nets coach Jacque Vaughn expressed his concerns about the challenge of back-to-back wins against the same opponent.

A pivotal moment came when Dorian Finney-Smith’s three-pointer capped a 13-0 Nets run in the final quarter. Despite Cunningham’s efforts to close the gap, Finney-Smith’s crucial baseline three-pointer in the last minute helped seal the victory for Brooklyn.

The game saw an energetic start from Detroit, who opened with a 22-8 run, but the Nets outscored them 53-32 for the rest of the first half. Williams pinpointed the second quarter as a turning point, citing turnovers as a persistent issue for the Pistons.

Fans expressed their frustration with chants urging the team’s sale, reflecting the growing discontent amid the Pistons’ historic losing streak.

Looking ahead, the Nets will host Milwaukee on Wednesday, while the Pistons face a tough matchup against Boston on Thursday.

by Richard Miller (US)

NBA: Wagner and Black Lead Magic to 127-119 Victory Over Wizards

WASHINGTON — Franz Wagner’s all-around performance and rookie Anthony Black’s career night powered the Orlando Magic to a 127-119 win against the Washington Wizards on Tuesday. Wagner finished with 28 points, nine assists, and eight rebounds, while Black scored a career-high 23 points.

Black, focusing on consistent improvement, played a key role in Orlando’s success. Paolo Banchero, despite a slow start, contributed 24 points and eight assists. Jalen Suggs, returning from injury, added 11 points, impressing coach Jamahl Mosley with his play after a two-game absence.

Jordan Poole led the Wizards with 30 points, but it wasn’t enough to prevent their fourth loss in five games. Tyus Jones contributed 22 points in the effort.

The Wizards initially struggled, trailing by as much as eight, but their bench contributed 12 points in the first quarter, helping to tie the game at 33. Orlando then went on a 7-0 run in the second quarter, leading to a Wizards timeout.

Corey Kispert’s 15 first-half points off the bench kept Washington in the game, trailing just 63-60 at halftime. The Magic maintained their lead in the third quarter, with Banchero’s left-handed layup extending their advantage to 98-88 entering the fourth.

Washington attempted a comeback in the fourth, cutting a 17-point deficit down to four points on two occasions, but Orlando held on. Wagner attributed the win to the team’s togetherness and communication, especially when under pressure.

Orlando dominated with 70 points in the paint and forced 21 turnovers, winning the first three games of their four-game regular season series against the Wizards.

Wizards coach Wes Unseld Jr. acknowledged the need to address turnovers and transition opportunities. Daniel Gafford had a double-double with 13 points and 13 rebounds, while Kyle Kuzma added 17 points, though he struggled with efficiency and turnovers.

Reflecting on his performance, Kuzma felt his lack of rhythm impacted the game’s outcome.

Looking ahead, the Magic will host Philadelphia on Wednesday night, while the Wizards will face Toronto on the same day.