December 26, 2023December 26, 2023 by Abhishek Shukla

UKK: Punit Balan Group owned Mumbai Khiladis onboard 5 major brands

New Delhi, December 26, 2023: Mumbai Khiladis, the powerhouse team owned by Punit Balan Group (PBG), has roped in five major sponsors for the ongoing Ultimate Kho Kho Season 2. With this major brand handshake, the franchise has garnered a combined sponsorship amount exceeding INR 8.30 Crores which reflects the growing popularity and commercial appeal of indigenous sports such as Kho Kho in India.

Mumbai Khiladis will witness a prominent sports news portal, 1XBat join as the Title Sponsor for the team and the logo will prominently feature on the front of their jersey.

Mylab Discovery Solutions Pvt Ltd, a leading dynamic biotechnology company based out of Pune has come on board as the Powered by Sponsor and will be featured on the back of the team’s jersey.

Generic Engineering Construction and Projects Limited, a BSE and NSE-listed prominent construction company and pharmaceutical distribution company, Pharm Deal, Pune will act as the team’s associate sponsors, their logos will feature on the jersey sleeves. Additionally, the well-renowned private aviation company, Jet Fleet Aviation, has also joined forces with the team as an associate sponsor, with its branding being positioned at the nape of the neck.

Expressing his enthusiasm for the enormous sponsorship that Mumbai Khiladis have secured with a record-breaking value, Punit Balan, Chairman & Managing Director of the PBG stated, “The significant sponsorship that we have secured is a testament to the meteoric rise as well as the interest that non-cricketing sports in this country are generating. Moreover, it also highlights the burgeoning and untapped potential that traditional games like Kho Kho have. Ultimate Kho Kho has been able to propel this homegrown sport to becoming a mainstream sports league and among the top three in India by engaging with a target audience cutting across the hinterland as well as urban India. We are confident this is just the beginning and Mumbai Khiladis will be a flag bearer in promoting the sport and being a catalyst in its continued growth not just in India but globally.”

Showcasing its commitment to the development of sports in the country, the Punit Balan Group (PBG) has already invested in nine sporting leagues across India and globally. They also support nearly 60 budding sports talents pan India. The sponsorship amount received by Mumbai Khiladis marks a significant milestone not just for the team but also for the league, Ultimate Kho Kho, which is just in its second season and sets a new standard for indigenous sports leagues in India.

“The Punit Balan Group has always believed that investing in non-cricketing sports is the key to sustainability, and our values closely align with those of our sponsors. With a shared vision to uplift indigenous sports, we are dedicated to contributing toward creating a sustainable ecosystem for non-cricketing sports to prosper in India,” added Punit Balan.

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).

Mumbai Khiladis, comprising standout talents including Captain Aniket Pote, defender Pritam Chougule and all-rounder Subhasis Santra, will face the Gujarat Giants in their second match of the season today on December 26.

Promoted by Amit Burman in collaboration with the Kho Kho Federation of India, Ultimate Kho Kho Season 2 is taking place at the Jawaharlal Nehru Indoor Stadium in Cuttack, Odisha with live coverage on Sony Sports Network’s channels and live streaming on Sony LIV daily at 7 PM onwards.

December 26, 2023December 26, 2023 by Abhishek Shukla

“ISL is helping the current generation to dream big, represent their favourite clubs and most importantly, the country” – Subhasish Bose

Subhasish Bose, the prominent Indian footballer with an impressive career spanning multiple ISL clubs and the national team, shares insights into his journey and the impact of football in India. In an interaction with the league, Bose highlights the transformative role of the Indian Super League (ISL) in shaping the dreams of the current generation.

As a player with 34 caps for the Indian national team and stints with distinguished ISL clubs such as Mumbai City FC, Bengaluru FC, and Mohun Bagan Super Giant, Bose has witnessed success and personal growth. Winning the ISL final and the Durand Cup with his club, as well as being part of the national team’s triumphs in the Intercontinental Cup and the SAFF Championship, mark significant achievements in his career.

However, the 28-year-old, a staunch Mohun Bagan supporter since his younger days, still recollects the time when he had divorced the idea of building a career out of football.

“There is a lot of opportunity and the ISL has helped spread the message amongst the masses that football can be taken up as a profession in India. When we started off, it was pure passion at play. I wasn’t sure whether I could sustain my family by merely playing the game. However, the ISL has helped bring in greater exposure and the league is helping the current generation dream big, become professional footballers, and represent their favourite clubs and most importantly, the country,” Bose says in an interaction with the league.

“I feel very passionate about playing for the Mariners, because I believe they are the best fans in the country,” he says.

Hailing from Kolkata, Bose has been in love with the game and his club for as long as he can remember. He is someone who thrives under pressure, and rides on the emotions that fans create inside the stadium. Admittedly, the versatile defender is encouraged to regain his spirits and give the game his all in the dying minutes of a match solely because of the support that is showered on him by the Mariners’ fan base. “I feel very passionate about playing for the Mariners, because I believe they are the best fans in the country,” he says.

“Winning the ISL trophy with the Mohun Bagan Super Giant last season has been the highlight of my career in this league so far. We had been trying for that for many years and to achieve it finally was a great moment. Secondly, scoring against India’s best goalkeeper Gurpreet Singh Sandhu during our matches against Bengaluru FC is a very memorable moment! Every game that I play in front of the Mohun Bagan crowd is something to cherish. Even when I am tired at around the 70-80 minute mark, they cheer us up and it energises me even more, encouraging me to perform even better,” Bose adds.

Any conversation about Kolkata football is incomplete without mentioning the century-old rivalry between Mohun Bagan Super Giant and East Bengal FC. Subhasish Bose humorously recalls avoiding discussions with friends from the Red & Gold Brigade during derby days. Simultaneously, he cautions that the rivalry should be restricted only on the field and bad blood should not spill beyond the duration of the game.

“The fan base for Indian football has grown a lot.”

“Ever since childhood, as a Bengali boy, I didn’t talk to my friends who are East Bengal FC fans during the derby day. As a professional player, I believe that these things help grow Indian football. However, I would always insist for the rivalry to exist only for the 90 minutes that the game takes place. Now, I have a lot of friends who are East Bengal FC fans, but the rivalry between us remains only for the time of the game. After that, we go out, have dinner, have fun, etc,” Bose says.

“The fan base for Indian football has grown a lot. People used to consume only European football, mainly the English Premier League (EPL) earlier. But, that interest is getting converted into our sport now. Kolkata is known as the mecca of football in India because of the rivalry between Mohun Bagan Super Giant and East Bengal FC,” he adds.

“Indian Super League (ISL) has helped Indian football and its players grow tremendously in the last decade”

Indian football has seen Bose evolve from a talented youngster to a dependable defender who takes up responsibilities during important moments for both his club and the country. Bose credits the ISL for helping him get acquainted with international expertise, in the form of coaches and players who have enabled him to discover a newer side of his playing style. “The Indian Super League (ISL) has helped Indian football and its players grow tremendously in the last decade. Playing under foreign coaches and Spanish, French, and other teammates, who have played for their national team, have enabled us to improve our individual qualities too. It has encouraged us to play more fearlessly for the national team,” Bose signs off.

December 26, 2023December 26, 2023 by Matt Windsor (US)

NBA: Luka Doncic Surpasses 10,000 Career Points with Christmas Spectacle, Joins Elite Company in NBA History

Dallas, December 26, 2023 — In a dazzling Christmas display, Luka Doncic, the Dallas Mavericks’ star guard, etched his name in the annals of NBA history by surpassing 10,000 career points. The milestone was achieved in a dramatic fashion with a deep 3-pointer in the Mavericks’ victory over the Phoenix Suns.

Playing in his 358th career game, Doncic tied with Hall of Famer Bob McAdoo for the seventh-fewest games needed to reach this remarkable feat. This elite list is topped by Wilt Chamberlain, who reached 10,000 points in just 236 games, followed by legends like Michael Jordan, Elgin Baylor, Kareem Abdul-Jabbar, Oscar Robertson, and George Gervin.

Entering the game just 11 points shy of the 10,000 mark, Doncic wasted no time in making history. Within the first 7 minutes, he dazzled the crowd with a 34-foot 3-pointer, crossing the coveted threshold and sending the fans into a frenzy.

At 24 years and 300 days old, Doncic is now the sixth-youngest player to achieve this milestone. This places him in the company of basketball greats such as LeBron James, Kevin Durant, Kobe Bryant, Carmelo Anthony, and Tracy McGrady, who all reached 10,000 points at a young age.

Doncic’s historic night didn’t end there. He went on to score 50 points on 15-for-25 shooting, leading the Mavericks to a 128-114 triumph over the Suns. This extraordinary performance makes him only the fourth player in NBA history to score 50 or more points in a Christmas Day game. The exclusive club also includes Bernard King, Wilt Chamberlain, and Rick Barry.

This achievement not only highlights Doncic’s scoring prowess but also cements his status as one of the brightest young talents in the league. His ability to perform at the highest level in key games has become a hallmark of his career, much to the delight of Mavericks fans and basketball enthusiasts worldwide.

As the NBA season continues, all eyes will be on Doncic to see how he builds on this remarkable achievement and leads his team through the challenges ahead.

December 26, 2023December 26, 2023 by Abhishek Shukla

Coca-Cola extends partnership with the International Cricket Council (ICC) for eight years

The International Cricket Council (ICC) and Coca-Cola are thrilled to announce an eight-year global partnership encompassing ICC World events across all three formats, up until the end of 2031.

The official signing ceremony which took place at ICC’s Headquarters marked a historic milestone for the partnership and demonstrated Coca-Cola’s commitment to sports. This eight-year partnership as a Global Partner of the ICC, confirmed the collaboration as one of the longest ever associations formed by the ICC with a single brand, spanning a total timeline of 13 years (2019 – 2031).

The relationship will see The Coca-Cola Company’s brands becoming exclusive non-alcoholic beverage partners. The agreement includes all men’s and women’s events at the pinnacle of the sport including the ICC Cricket World Cups, ICC T20 World Cups and ICC Champions Trophies through to the end of 2031. During the course of the partnership, there will be both a major international men’s and women’s event every year as well as a World Test Championship Final every two years.

ICC Chief Commercial Officer, Anurag Dahiya said: “I am thrilled to welcome back The Coca-Cola Company as an ICC Global Partner as we enter a landmark eight-year partnership, which unites one of the world’s leading brands with the second largest sport in the world. This long-term collaboration ushers in a new commercial era, filled with exciting prospects for the sport. With the Men’s T20 World Cup in the USA and West Indies, and the Women’s edition in Bangladesh just around the corner, we’re poised for unprecedented global growth and engagement. This partnership not only celebrates our sport’s expansion but also promises innovative opportunities to enhance our fans’ experience worldwide.”

Bradford Ross, Vice President of Global Assets, Influencers, and Partnerships at The Coca-Cola Company, stated, “In alignment with our rich history of global sports partnerships, the collaboration with ICC reinforces our commitment to refreshing sports fans and elevating their entertainment experiences. Sports holds immense power to unite people, and this partnership provides us with a unique opportunity to blend our brand affinity with the fervor for the world’s cricketing game. We endeavor to continue to delight consumers with our diverse portfolio and create unique experiences for fans.”

During the recent ICC Men’s Cricket World Cup India 2023, Thums Up and Limca Sportz were the exclusive beverage and sports drink partners, activating a host of online and offline fan engagement activations. Additionally, Sprite took center stage with its captivating ‘Thand rakh’ campaign, aimed at elevating and sustaining the enthusiasm of cricket fans throughout the biggest World Cup ever.

December 26, 2023December 26, 2023 by Richard Miller (US)

NBA: Doncic’s 50-Point Masterclass Leads Mavericks to 128-114 Victory Over Suns

PHOENIX — Luka Doncic delivered an exceptional 50-point performance, along with 14 assists, guiding the Dallas Mavericks to a 128-114 win over the Phoenix Suns on Monday night. Doncic’s display capped off a day full of NBA Christmas games, with his shooting prowess on full display, going 8 of 16 from 3-point range and perfect from the free-throw line.

Doncic’s achievement was highlighted by surpassing 10,000 career points in the first quarter, reaching this milestone in just 358 career games, making him the seventh fastest in NBA history.

Dereck Lively II returned from an ankle sprain to contribute 20 points and 10 rebounds for Dallas, and Tim Hardaway Jr. added 18 points. The Mavericks have been navigating games without Kyrie Irving, who has missed nine consecutive games due to a heel injury.

For the Suns, Chimezie Metu and Grayson Allen stepped up, particularly from the bench. Allen had a remarkable third quarter, scoring 19 of his 32 points and hitting 8 of 17 from beyond the arc. Metu added 23 points and a career-high 19 rebounds, filling in the gap left by Jusuf Nurkic, who was absent due to personal reasons.

The Mavericks pulled away in the fourth quarter with a 17-4 run, compounding the Suns’ struggles, who have now lost nine of their last 12 games.

Doncic’s scintillating performance was evident from the start as he set up Lively for easy baskets and then focused on scoring himself, tallying 17 points in the first quarter. His playmaking continued in the second quarter, leading Dallas to a 64-54 halftime advantage.

The Suns, who had an offensively disjointed first half, improved their ball movement in the third quarter, briefly taking the lead on an Allen 3-pointer. However, the Mavericks regained control in the fourth quarter, extending their lead and sealing the victory with Doncic’s impressive runner in the closing seconds.

Looking ahead, the Mavericks will host Cleveland on Wednesday, while the Suns face a road game against Houston on the same day.

December 26, 2023December 26, 2023 by Matt Windsor (US)

NBA: Rookie Jaquez’s 31 Points and Double-Double Lead Heat to 119-113 Christmas Victory Over 76ers

MIAMI — Miami Heat rookie Jaime Jaquez Jr. delivered a memorable Christmas performance, scoring 31 points and securing his first double-double in a 119-113 win over the Philadelphia 76ers on Monday night. Jaquez’s excitement about playing on Christmas was evident in his outstanding play.

Bam Adebayo supported Jaquez’s efforts with 26 points and 15 rebounds. Heat coach Erik Spoelstra made history, improving to a perfect 9-0 record on Christmas Day, the best record for head coaches in NBA history on the holiday.

The 76ers were without Joel Embiid due to an ankle sprain. Tobias Harris led Philadelphia with 27 points, and Kelly Oubre Jr. added 25. Mo Bamba and De’Anthony Melton contributed with 18 and 15 points, respectively, while Tyrese Maxey struggled, shooting 4 for 20 from the floor.

Tyler Herro added 22 points for the Heat, Duncan Robinson contributed 16, and Kyle Lowry had 12, marking his first Christmas win. Jaquez also pulled down 10 rebounds, helping Miami dominate the boards with a 56-36 advantage.

The Heat overcame several absences, including Jimmy Butler, Josh Richardson, and Haywood Highsmith. They also lost Caleb Martin in the first half to an ankle sprain.

The game was tied at 86 after three quarters, despite a rollercoaster of leads. Philadelphia began strongly, but Miami responded with a 21-1 run in the first half, helped by Philadelphia’s 14 consecutive missed shots. The 76ers then managed to erase a 21-point deficit in the third quarter.

In the fourth quarter, Jaquez and Adebayo each scored 10 points to secure the win for Miami. Jaquez’s performance placed him among a select group of rookies who have scored significantly in their first Christmas games, joining the ranks of Wilt Chamberlain, Walt Bellamy, LeBron James, Bill Cartwright, Patrick Ewing, and Oscar Robertson.

76ers coach Nick Nurse praised Jaquez’s performance, acknowledging his crucial role in the Heat’s victory.

Looking ahead, the 76ers will face Orlando on Wednesday, while the Heat will travel to play Golden State on Thursday.

December 26, 2023December 26, 2023 by Richard Miller (US)

NBA: Porzingis and Balanced Celtics Overpower Lakers 126-115 on Christmas Day

LOS ANGELES — In a display of exceptional teamwork, the Boston Celtics, led by Kristaps Porzingis, defeated the Los Angeles Lakers 126-115 on Christmas Day. Porzingis tallied 28 points and 11 rebounds, with all Celtics starters scoring at least 18 points.

Jayson Tatum contributed 25 points, while Jaylen Brown and Derrick White added 19 and 18 points, respectively. White also dished out 11 assists. Jrue Holiday’s 18 points and seven assists further exemplified Boston’s cohesive play, which has led them to win 12 of their last 14 games.

Anthony Davis was the standout for the Lakers, scoring a game-high 40 points along with 13 rebounds. LeBron James added 16 points, nine rebounds, and eight assists. Despite Davis’ efforts, the Lakers have struggled lately, losing six of their last eight games since their In-Season Tournament victory.

James acknowledged the Lakers’ current health and performance issues, emphasizing the need for improvement to compete with top teams.

This game marked the third Christmas Day meeting between the two iconic franchises, with the Lakers winning in 2008 and the Minneapolis Lakers triumphing in 1951.

The Celtics set the tone early, scoring the first 12 points of the game and leading by as many as 18 in the first quarter. Boston regained the lead swiftly in the third quarter after briefly trailing, and effectively maintained their advantage in the final quarter.

Porzingis noted that despite the win, the Celtics could have been even more dominant with better shooting from beyond the arc, finishing 13 of 42 (31%) on three-point attempts.

Lakers coach Darvin Ham pointed out various areas of concern, including transition defense, rebounding, and turnovers. Davis reflected on the small mistakes, like his missed free throw in the third quarter, which he felt had a significant impact on the game’s outcome.

Both teams experienced a scare when Brown and James collided in the second quarter, but both players returned to continue the game.

Looking ahead, the Celtics will host Detroit on Thursday, while the Lakers will welcome Charlotte on the same day.

December 26, 2023December 26, 2023 by Matt Windsor (US)

NFL: Ravens Dominate 49ers 33-19 in High-Stakes Late-Season Showdown

SANTA CLARA, Calif. — The Baltimore Ravens, led by Lamar Jackson’s dynamic performance, secured a decisive 33-19 victory over the San Francisco 49ers in a rare late-season clash between the NFL’s top teams. This triumph further solidified the Ravens’ position as a formidable contender in the league.

In a game that was anticipated to be a close contest, the Ravens (12-3) showcased their prowess on both offense and defense, turning the matchup into a one-sided affair. The defense, particularly Kyle Hamilton, played a crucial role, intercepting 49ers quarterback Brock Purdy four times. Three of these interceptions occurred in the initial drives, setting a daunting tone for the 49ers (11-4).

Jackson, the star of the evening, orchestrated two touchdown passes within 18 seconds in the third quarter, elevating his MVP candidacy. His agility was on full display as he scrambled 30 yards to set up a field goal, giving the Ravens a 16-12 lead by halftime. In the third quarter, Jackson found Nelson Agholor for a 6-yard touchdown, followed swiftly by capitalizing on Patrick Queen’s interception with a 9-yard TD pass to Zay Flowers, bringing the score to 30-12.

Ravens’ coach John Harbaugh praised Jackson’s “MVP performance,” highlighting his 252 passing yards and 45 rushing yards. Despite a safety caused by an intentional grounding call, Jackson’s focus remained on the team’s victory.

Purdy, in stark contrast, faced his toughest game yet. His four interceptions marked the first time a 49ers quarterback had thrown so many since Colin Kaepernick in 2015. Purdy, who was replaced by Sam Darnold in the fourth quarter following a stinger, ended with 18 completions on 32 attempts for 255 yards.

Despite the setback, 49ers’ coach Kyle Shanahan acknowledged Purdy’s unwavering demeanor. However, it wasn’t just Purdy; the entire team struggled in the second half. Christian McCaffrey, the 49ers’ MVP candidate, was a bright spot, rushing for 102 yards and a touchdown, continuing his streak of impressive performances.

This matchup marked only the second time that teams with the best records in each conference faced off in Week 16 or later. Despite the loss, the 49ers remain tied for the best record in the NFC and can still secure the No. 1 seed with victories in their final two games.

The Ravens, maintaining a game’s lead over Miami for the AFC’s top record, have shown dominance against playoff-contending teams, outscoring them significantly. They remain committed to a physical brand of football, as emphasized by linebacker Patrick Queen.

Injuries did mar the game, with both teams losing key players. For the Ravens, Hamilton, Kevin Zeitler, and Patrick Mekari were sidelined, though none of the injuries are considered serious. The 49ers saw Trent Williams, Jaylon Moore, and Aaron Banks exit with injuries.

Looking ahead, the Ravens are set to host Miami, while the 49ers face Washington on the road, as both teams aim to solidify their playoff positions.

December 26, 2023December 26, 2023 by Richard Miller (US)

NFL: Eagles Overcome Sloppiness, Beat Giants 33-25 to Keep NFC East Title Hopes Alive

PHILADELPHIA — The Philadelphia Eagles, led by quarterback Jalen Hurts, overcame a series of setbacks and a demand for a more ground-focused attack from their fans to secure a crucial 33-25 victory over the New York Giants on Monday night. This win snaps the Eagles’ three-game losing streak and keeps their aspirations for an NFC East title alive.

Hurts, who had been under scrutiny for his ball security this season, demonstrated resilience and adaptability. He set a new NFL record for most rushing touchdowns by a quarterback in a season with his 15th, surpassing Cam Newton’s previous record. Hurts also threw for 301 yards and a touchdown, showing a balance between his rushing and passing capabilities.

The game at Lincoln Financial Field saw fans vocally expressing their frustration with the Eagles’ pass-heavy strategy, especially as the offense seemed to stall in the second half. The calls for “Run the ball!” were eventually heeded, leading to crucial rushing scores from Kenneth Gainwell and D’Andre Swift. This shift in strategy proved pivotal in maintaining the Eagles’ (11-4) chances for a division title.

Despite the victory, the Eagles’ performance was marred by turnovers and penalties, indicating lingering issues as they aim for a consecutive Super Bowl run. Hurts acknowledged the need for growth, emphasizing the importance of winning as the primary goal.

The Giants (5-10) showed flashes of promise, especially with Adoree’ Jackson’s interception return for a touchdown and Saquon Barkley’s consistent efforts. However, their late surge, highlighted by a 69-yard touchdown connection between Tyrod Taylor and Darius Slayton, wasn’t enough to overcome Philadelphia’s lead. The game concluded with a crucial interception by Kelee Ringo in the end zone, thwarting the Giants’ final drive.

This win is a significant morale boost for the Eagles, who had been reeling from consecutive losses to the 49ers, Cowboys, and Seahawks, effectively ending their bid for the No. 1 seed in the NFC. The path to a second straight division title now requires victories against Arizona and the Giants in their season finale.

The Giants face another challenge as they host the Rams next Sunday, while the Eagles look to capitalize on their momentum when they host Arizona.

Despite the win, the Eagles’ journey to the playoffs is marked by a need for improvement and consistency, as they seek to replicate their Super Bowl success.

December 26, 2023December 26, 2023 by Matt Windsor (US)

NBA: Murray and Jokic Lead Nuggets to 120-114 Win Over Warriors, Extend Streak to Five Games

Jamal Murray’s 28 points and Nikola Jokic’s free throw prowess led the Denver Nuggets to a thrilling 120-114 victory over the Golden State Warriors, extending their winning streak to five games. Jokic, despite an off day from the field, went a perfect 18 of 18 from the free-throw line, finishing with 26 points, 14 rebounds, and eight assists.

Jokic’s performance was reminiscent of his explosive display last Christmas, where he notched 41 points, 15 rebounds, and 15 assists against Phoenix. Despite shooting just 4 of 12 from the floor against the Warriors, his flawless free-throw shooting set a new career-high and played a crucial role in Denver’s win.

The game was tightly contested with nine lead changes in the second half alone. Denver secured the lead for good on Jokic’s left-handed hook shot with just over five minutes left in the game.

Andrew Wiggins provided a significant boost for the Warriors, scoring 22 points in his return after missing two games due to illness. Stephen Curry, after a slow start, heated up to contribute 18 points. The Warriors have been adjusting to the absence of Draymond Green, who is serving an indefinite suspension.

Golden State’s strategy involved Kevon Looney and rookie Trayce Jackson-Davis alternating in their defensive efforts against Jokic, who struggled to find his usual rhythm around the basket. However, all five Denver starters scored in double figures, with Michael Porter Jr. and Aaron Gordon each achieving double-doubles.

Nuggets coach Michael Malone, showcasing his festive spirit with a Nuggets-themed Christmas sweater, shared fond memories of attending NBA games on December 25th, particularly during his father’s tenure as an assistant coach for the New York Knicks.

Looking ahead, the Warriors will begin a seven-game homestand against Miami on Thursday, while the Nuggets will host the Memphis Grizzlies on the same day, aiming to continue their impressive form.

December 26, 2023December 26, 2023 by Abhishek Shukla

Medvedev, Rublev, Sofia power PBG Eagles to win World Tennis League 2023

Dubai, December 26, 2023: US Open Champion, Daniil Medvedev and 2023 Australian Open quarterfinalist Andrey Rublev led Punit Balan Group Eagles won the World Tennis League title on Sunday night. In the finals played at the Etihad Arena, UAE, the PBG Eagles defeated Team Kites 29-26 for the coveted trophy and winning purse.

Punit Balan Group were bang on with the formidable combinations of players. Despite losing their opening mixed doubles tie, where the Medvedev-Mirra Andreeva pair went down to Paula Badosa-Stefanos Tsitsipas 6-7 (5-7) in a tie-breaker, PBG Eagles returned with a bang to register victories in women’s doubles, men’s doubles and women’s singles.

Andreeva and Sofia Kenin defeated Badosa and Aryna Sabalenka overcame a stiff challenge to score a 7-5 win in the women’s doubles category.

“It was the first World Tennis League for me and begins straight with the victory. So, I am happy about it, happy for the team and happy that I managed to bring some points. I was happy with my doubles (men’s), especially because in the first match we played with Sophia we lost. And then I managed to step up my game. The only doubles after that we lost was mixed doubles. But it’s okay, in tennis, that can happen,” commented the World No. 3 Medvedev.

Medvedev and Rublev had a rather easy outing against Grigor Dimitrov and Lloyd Harris, scoring a 6–3 victory as a men’s doubles pair and the World No. 5, Rublev was happy with his contributions and that he could lead the team for a podium finish.

“Having the tennis greats of our time as part of PBG Eagles itself was an amazing experience and to top it with a win, we couldn’t have asked for more. The way we approached the matches and ensured a clinical finish was critical and I am very happy that we finished as Champions and give our fans a strong reason to celebrate as we finish 2023,” commented Punit Balan, Chairman & Managing Director of the Punit Balan Group.

PBG Eagles soared further high with World No. 33 Kenin’ upsetting World No. 2 Sabalenka in the women’s singles category.

The opposition needed to register a spectacular win in the men’s singles match. Although Grigor Dimitrov managed to score a 6-3 victory over Rublev, PBG Eagles had enough point cushion to claim the title 29-26.

December 26, 2023December 26, 2023 by Abhishek Shukla

Hockey India announces 34-member core probable group for National Women’s Coaching Camp

Bengaluru, 26th December 2023: Hockey India on Wednesday announced the 34-member core probable group for the Senior Women’s National Coaching Camp, which is scheduled to commence on 27th December at the SAI Centre in Bengaluru. The upcoming camp is significant as the Indian Team will aim to fine-tune their preparations ahead of the crucial FIH Hockey Olympic Qualifiers Ranchi 2024 and the FIH Hockey5s Women’s World Cup 2024.

The Indian Women’s Hockey Team will return to camp after a short break following their excursion in Spain. They faced off against Belgium, Germany, Ireland, and hosts Spain in the 5 Nations Tournament Valencia 2023 and will now gear up to make a strong showing in the Olympics Qualifiers and confirm their place in the all-important Paris 2024 Olympics.

The FIH Hockey Olympic Qualifiers Ranchi 2024 are scheduled to take place from 13th to 19th January in Ranchi, with India placed in Pool B alongside New Zealand, Italy, and the United States. Meanwhile, Pool A comprises Germany, Japan, Chile, and the Czech Republic. Following that, India will participate in the FIH Hockey5s Women’s World Cup 2024 in Muscat, Oman, which is set to begin on 24th January and conclude on 27th January.

The core group includes goalkeepers Savita, Rajani Etimarpu, Bichu Devi Kharibam, and Bansari Solanki, while Deep Grace Ekka, Gurjit Kaur, Nikki Pradhan, Udita, Ishika Chaudhary, Akshata Abaso Dhekale, Jyoti Chhatri, and Mahima Chaudhary form the group of defenders. Nisha, Salima Tete, Sushila Chanu Pukhrambam, Jyoti, Navjot Kaur, Monika, Mariana Kujur, Sonika, Neha, Baljeet Kaur, Reena Khokhar, Vaishnavi Vitthal Phalke, and Ajmina Kujur are the midfielders called up for the camp, while Lalremsiami, Navneet Kaur, Vandana Katariya, Sharmila Devi, Deepika, Sangita Kumari, Mumtaz Khan, Sunelita Toppo, and Beauty Dungdung form the forwards line-up.

The Indian Women’s Hockey Team will return to Ranchi after a dominating performance at the Jharkhand Women’s Asian Champions Trophy Ranchi 2023, where they were crowned Champions last month. With the aim of qualifying for the Paris 2024 Olympics, the Chief Coach of the Indian Women’s Hockey Team, Janneke Schopman, is striving to draw out the best performances from her players.

Janneke Schopman explained the importance of the upcoming camp and said, “The 5 Nations Tournament Valencia 2023 served as a good litmus test ahead of the FIH Hockey Olympic Qualifiers Ranchi 2024. We identified areas for improvement, and we will use this festive period to dot all the i’s and cross the t’s. The squad is eager to return to Ranchi after their triumph in the Jharkhand Women’s Asian Champions Trophy in November. With the little time left, we will focus on refining our game to ensure we are in the best position—physically, tactically, and mentally—to secure qualification for the Paris 2024 Olympics.”

Indian Women’s Hockey Team 34-member Core Group:

GOALKEEPERS

Savita
Rajani Etimarpu
Bichu Devi Kharibam
Bansari Solanki

DEFENDERS

Deep Grace Ekka
Gurjit Kaur
Nikki Pradhan
Udita
Ishika Chaudhary
Akshata Abaso Dhekale
Jyoti Chhatri
Mahima Chaudhary

MIDFIELDERS

Nisha
Salima Tete
Sushila Chanu Pukhrambam
Jyoti
Navjot Kaur
Monika
Mariana Kujur
Sonika
Neha
Baljeet Kaur
Reena Khokhar
Vaishnavi Vitthal Phalke
Ajmina Kujur

FORWARDS

Lalremsiami
Navneet Kaur
Vandana Katariya
Sharmila Devi
Deepika
Sangita Kumari
Mumtaz Khan
Sunelita Toppo
Beauty Dungdung

December 26, 2023December 26, 2023 by Richard Miller (US)

NFL: Raiders’ Defensive Might Overwhelms Chiefs in Stunning 20-14 Victory

KANSAS CITY, Mo. — Resurgent Raiders Thwart Chiefs’ AFC West Title Ambitions- In a dramatic Monday night showdown, the Las Vegas Raiders upended the Kansas City Chiefs 20-14, showcasing defensive prowess with two touchdowns and halting the Chiefs’ bid to clinch the AFC West. The victory at Arrowhead Stadium marks a pivotal moment in the Raiders’ season, keeping their playoff aspirations alive.

Defensive Dominance Sets Tone for Raiders – The Raiders’ defense emerged as the cornerstone of their victory. Big defensive tackle Bilal Nichols turned the game’s momentum with an 8-yard fumble return for a touchdown. Almost immediately after, cornerback Jack Jones intercepted Patrick Mahomes, returning it 33 yards for a score, marking a decisive seven-second sequence that put the Raiders up 17-7.

Chiefs Struggle in Surprising Fashion: For the Chiefs, this loss was marked by uncharacteristic mistakes. Mahomes, often lauded for his precision and dynamic play, finished 27 of 44 for 235 yards, marred by a crucial interception. The team’s overall performance was riddled with penalties, dropped passes, and missed opportunities, including a missed field goal by usually reliable Harrison Butker.

Raiders’ Offense Overcomes Challenges: Despite the absence of star running back Josh Jacobs, the Raiders’ offense, led by Aidan O’Connell, managed to contribute crucially to the win. O’Connell struggled with a 9 of 21 for 62 yards passing performance, but Zamir White’s ground game, amassing 145 yards, was instrumental, especially his 43-yard dash in the game’s closing stages to help run down the clock.

Chiefs’ Early Game Woes: The Chiefs’ start was notably poor, with the team going three-and-out on consecutive series for only the second time under Mahomes. They recorded a dismal minus-18 yards in the first quarter, a stark contrast to their usual high-octane offense.

Notable Performances and Milestones: The Raiders’ defensive unit achieved their most significant first quarter since 1991, holding the Chiefs to negative yardage. Rookie Rashee Rice also made a mark, setting a new Chiefs record for receptions by a rookie.

Injury Concerns for Chiefs: The game was not without its toll, as the Chiefs saw key players like cornerback L’Jarius Sneed and running back Isiah Pacheco leave with injuries. Pacheco’s exit due to concussion protocol and Trey Smith’s leg injury in the fourth quarter add to the Chiefs’ concerns.

Looking Ahead: The Raiders, rejuvenated by this victory, set their sights on Indianapolis for their next game. The Chiefs, looking to rebound from this setback, will face a challenging matchup against Cincinnati.The outcome of this game signals a significant shift in the AFC West dynamics and poses critical questions for the Chiefs’ strategy moving forward, while bolstering the Raiders’ confidence as they eye a playoff berth.

December 26, 2023December 26, 2023 by Richard Miller (US)

NBA: Brunson’s 38 Points Fuel Knicks to 129-122 Victory Over Bucks, Ending Streak

NEW YORK — Jalen Brunson’s stellar 38-point performance led the New York Knicks to a significant 129-122 win over the Milwaukee Bucks on Monday, snapping Milwaukee’s seven-game winning streak and the Knicks’ nine-game losing streak against the Bucks. The victory marked a rebound from a 130-111 loss to Milwaukee on Saturday.

Brunson, who has consistently troubled the Bucks this season, was supported by Julius Randle with 24 points and nine rebounds, RJ Barrett with 21 points, and Immanuel Quickley contributing 20 points off the bench.

Giannis Antetokounmpo and Damian Lillard each scored 32 points for the Bucks, who have been dominant in December but appeared to lack energy in this matchup. Khris Middleton added 24 points in the loss.

The Knicks managed to control the game against a Bucks team that had been averaging 132.4 points in December. Milwaukee struggled in the first half, trailing by as much as 16 points late in the game before a late surge made the score closer.Brunson’s efficient shooting, going 15 for 28 from the field, followed his previous high-scoring games against the Bucks this season. The Knicks also had valuable contributions from Isaiah Hartenstein, with 11 points and eight rebounds, and Josh Hart, who added 10 points and nine rebounds off the bench.

Antetokounmpo also recorded 13 rebounds and six assists, but the Bucks, in their sixth consecutive Christmas appearance, fell to a 3-3 record in such games.The game started with a highlight from Antetokounmpo, but Brunson quickly took over, scoring 15 points in the first quarter to give the Knicks a 36-27 lead. Lillard tried to reduce the Knicks’ 13-point lead in the second quarter, but his efforts were not enough as Middleton and Antetokounmpo struggled with their shooting.

The Bucks managed to cut the deficit in the third quarter, but the Knicks, boosted by Hart’s performance, extended their lead to 98-87 entering the final period.Looking ahead, the Bucks will continue their New York stay with a visit to Brooklyn on Wednesday, while the Knicks will travel to face Oklahoma City on the same day.

December 26, 2023December 26, 2023 by Steve Murphy PL

UEFA 2023 End-of-Year Rankings: Dominance in the Field

Manchester City and Barcelona Lead the Charge

As 2023 draws to a close, the UEFA rankings provide a clear picture of dominance in European football. Manchester City has retained its top position in the men’s club category with an impressive coefficient of 141.000, mirroring their consistent performance throughout the year. They are closely followed by Bayern Munich, who maintained their second place with a coefficient of 136.000.

UEFA club (five-year coefficient)

1 (= compared to last year) Man City (ENG) 141.000
2 (=) Bayern (GER) 136.000
3 (+3) Real Madrid (ESP) 123.000
4 (+1) Paris Saint-Germain (FRA) 108.00
5 (-2) Liverpool (ENG) 107.00
6 *Inter (ITA) 99.000
7 *Leipzig (GER) 96.000
8 (-4) Chelsea (ENG) 96.000
9 (-1) Man United (ENG) 92.000
10 *Roma (ITA) 91.000

In the women’s club rankings, Barcelona has taken the lead, marking their rise with a coefficient of 115.699, surpassing Lyon, which now stands at second with 103.066.

UEFA women’s club rankings (five-year coefficient)

1 (+1) Barcelona (ESP) 115.699
2 (-1) Lyon (FRA) 103.066
3 (+1) Wolfsburg (GER) 92.533
4 (-1) Paris Saint-Germain (FRA) 88.066
5 (=) Bayern (GER) 85.533
6 (=) Chelsea (ENG) 73.266
7 (=) Arsenal (ENG) 57.266
8 (+1) Juventus (ITA) 40.700
9 *Real Madrid (ESP) 40.699
10 (-2) Man City (ENG) 40.266

National Association Rankings: England and France at the Forefront

England remains the top men’s association, a testament to the overall strength and competitive nature of English clubs in European competitions. Their coefficient of 100.533 is well ahead of second-placed Spain, which has a coefficient of 86.114.

UEFA association club rankings (five-year coefficient)

1 (=) England 100.533
2 (=) Spain 86.114
3 (+1) Italy 83.284
4 (-1) Germany 80.909
5 (=) France 62.164
6 (=) Netherlands 59.900
7 (=) Portugal 53.149
8 (=) Belgium 46.000
9 *Türkiye 37.100
10 (-1) Scotland 35.850

France leads the women’s association rankings with a coefficient of 70.333, indicating the growing influence and competitiveness of French clubs in women’s European football.

UEFA women’s association club rankings (five-year coefficient)

1 (=) France 70.333
2 (=) Germany 67.666
3 (=) Spain 63.499
4 (=) England 56.333
5 (=) Italy 33.500
6 (+3) Portugal 31.000
7 (-1) Sweden 23.332
8 (=) Denmark 21.750
9 (-2) Czechia 21.332
10 *Austria 21.250

Futsal: Portugal Dominates the Rankings

In the realm of men’s futsal, Portugal continues to hold sway as the top national team, with a notable coefficient of 2615.953. This dominance underscores Portugal’s significant prowess in futsal, a sport that has been gaining popularity and recognition across Europe.

UEFA men’s futsal national team rankings

1 (=) Portugal 2615.953
2 (=) Russia 2547.159
3 (=) Spain 2486.459
4 (=) Kazakhstan 2416.503
5 (+3) Ukraine 2056.591
6 (=) Croatia 1976.252
7 *Finland 1970.212

8 *France 1967.306
9 *Poland 1924.072
10 *Slovenia 1898.780

Summary

The end-of-year UEFA rankings not only highlight the dominant teams and associations but also reflect the evolving landscape of European football, with clubs like Barcelona and nations like France marking their ascendancy in women’s football. These rankings are crucial as they influence seeding and allocations in future UEFA competitions, setting the stage for another exciting year in European football.

*New entry to the top ten compared to the rankings at the end of 2022

Coefficients up to date as of 25 December 2023

December 25, 2023December 25, 2023 by Matt Windsor (US)

NFL Personnel Moves: Notable Activations and Injuries Impact Week 16

DATE: Sunday, Dec. 24, 2023

In the latest NFL personnel movements, several teams have made significant changes to their rosters ahead of Week 16. Here’s a rundown of the key transactions:

Kansas City Chiefs Bolster Squad with Activations and Signings

Kansas City: The Chiefs have activated nose tackle Mike Pennel from the practice squad, along with wide receiver Montrell Washington. In a strategic move, running back La’Mical Perine has been signed from the Kansas City practice squad. However, they face a setback with running back Jerick McKinnon being placed on the reserve/injured list.

Las Vegas Raiders Reinforce Roster

Las Vegas: The Raiders have activated Brandon Facyson, a defensive back, from the reserve/injured list, marking his return to the active roster. Tight end Cole Fotheringham and running back Jakob Johnson have been elevated from the practice squad, providing depth to the team’s offensive unit.

New York Giants Make Crucial Additions

New York Giants: The Giants have brought kicker Mason Crosby and linebacker Tomon Fox from the practice squad, potentially bolstering their special teams and defensive lineup. Tackle Matt Peart has been activated from the reserve/injured list, which could strengthen their offensive line.

Philadelphia Eagles Enhance Defensive Backfield

Philadelphia: The Eagles have added depth to their defense by elevating defensive back Tristin McCollum and linebacker Brandon Smith from the practice squad, aiming to fortify their defensive strategies.

Other Transactions Across the League

Buffalo Bills: The Bills have deactivated several players, including tackle Alec Anderson, defensive end A.J. Epenesa, and defensive back Micah Hyde.

Cincinnati Bengals: Wide receiver Ja’Marr Chase and running back Chris Evans are among the players deactivated by the Bengals, along with other key defensive and offensive line players.

Los Angeles Chargers: The Chargers have made several deactivations, including wide receiver Keenan Allen and quarterback Max Duggan, who was listed as the third quarterback.

Pittsburgh Steelers: The Steelers’ deactivations include quarterback Kenny Pickett and defensive back Minkah Fitzpatrick, along with other players from various positions.

These latest NFL transactions indicate strategic moves by the teams to strengthen their rosters with the playoffs approaching. The activations, signings, and deactivations will undoubtedly have a significant impact on the teams’ performances in Week 16 and beyond.

December 25, 2023December 25, 2023 by Matt Windsor (US)

NFL Week 16 Injury Report: Key Matchups Impacted by Player Absences (24 Dec)

The NFL’s Week 16 brings a slew of injuries impacting several key matchups this weekend. Teams are bracing for competitive games, with some notable players sidelined due to various injuries. Here’s a comprehensive look at the injury report for this week’s games:

Arizona Cardinals at Chicago Bears

Arizona Cardinals: The Cardinals are facing significant challenges with wide receiver Marquise Brown and cornerbacks Bobby Price and Garrett Williams ruled out. The team’s defense and passing game could be significantly impacted. Players like safety Andre Chachere and linebacker Victor Dimukeje are questionable, adding to the team’s uncertainties.

Chicago Bears: The Bears are without tackle Teven Jenkins, linebacker Noah Sewell, and wide receiver Equanimeous St. Brown. Running backs D’Onta Foreman and Travis Homer, along with tight end Cole Kmet, are listed as questionable, potentially affecting the team’s offense and depth.

Cleveland Browns at Houston Texans

Cleveland Browns: The Browns have several players out, including linebacker Jordan Kunaszyk and defensive end Ogbonnia Okoronkwo. Guard Joel Bitonio’s status as questionable adds concerns to the offensive line.

Houston Texans: The Texans face a major setback with defensive end Will Anderson, linebacker Blake Cashman, and quarterback C.J. Stroud out. The absence of key defensive players and the starting quarterback could heavily influence the game’s dynamics.

Dallas Cowboys at Miami Dolphins

Dallas Cowboys: The Cowboys have defensive tackle Johnathan Hankins and tackles Tyron Smith and Matt Waletzko out. Safety Malik Hooker and guard Zack Martin are questionable, affecting both defense and offensive line depth.

Miami Dolphins: The Dolphins’ guard Robert Hunt is out, and several players in the secondary, including safety Elijah Campbell and cornerback Xavien Howard, are questionable. The team’s offensive and defensive capabilities could be tested.

Key Injuries in Other Matchups

Detroit Lions vs. Minnesota Vikings: The Lions have several players out, including fullback Jason Cabinda and safety Chauncey Gardner-Johnson. The Vikings’ cornerback Byron Murphy and wide receiver Jalen Nailor are out, with other key players questionable.
Green Bay Packers at Carolina Panthers: The Packers’ linebacker De’Vondre Campbell and safety Darnell Savage are out. The Panthers have linebackers Claudin Cherelus and Sam Franklin, and tight end Ian Thomas as questionable.
Indianapolis Colts at Atlanta Falcons: The Colts are without center Jack Anderson, linebacker Segun Olubi, and tackle Braden Smith. The Falcons have fullback Keith Smith listed as doubtful and several players as questionable.
Jacksonville Jaguars at Tampa Bay Buccaneers: The Jaguars’ cornerback Christian Braswell is out, and the Buccaneers’ wide receiver Rakim Jarrett is out. Both teams have other players listed as questionable.
New England Patriots at Denver Broncos: The Patriots have safety Jabrill Peppers, wide receiver JuJu Smith-Schuster, and running back Rhamondre Stevenson out. The Broncos are without linebacker Nik Bonitto, tight end Greg Dulcich, and tackle Alex Palczewski.
Seattle Seahawks at Tennessee Titans: The Seahawks have safety Jamal Adams and linebacker Frank Clark out. The Titans have a long list of players out, including cornerback Caleb Farley and linebacker Jack Gibbens.
Washington Commanders at New York Jets: The Commanders’ center Tyler Larsen, tackle Charles Leno, and running back Brian Robinson are out. The Jets’ quarterbacks Aaron Rodgers and Zach Wilson are out.
Baltimore Ravens at San Francisco 49ers: The Ravens are without cornerbacks Jalyn Armour-Davis and Arthur Maulet. The 49ers have defensive tackle Arik Armstead and linebacker Oren Burks out.
Las Vegas Raiders at Kansas City Chiefs: The Raiders’ tight end Michael Mayer is out. The Chiefs will miss wide receiver Mecole Hardman and running back Jerick McKinnon.
New York Giants at Philadelphia Eagles: The Giants’ tackle Evan Neal and defensive tackle Rakeem Nunez-Roches are out. The Eagles have linebacker Zach Cunningham and guard Landon Dickerson out.

These injuries pose significant challenges for the teams, potentially influencing the outcomes of the Week 16 games and affecting their standings as the season progresses.

December 25, 2023December 25, 2023 by Abhishek Shukla

Uzbekistan’s chess renaissance: 2023 World Rapid and Blitz Championships officially opened in Samarkand

Set against the backdrop of the historical city where some of the world’s oldest chess pieces were discovered, the World Rapid and Blitz Chess Championships were opened in Samarkand in a grand ceremony.

Gathered in the architectural marvel of the Silk Road Samarkand hotel complex, the world’s chess elite geared up for the highly anticipated World Rapid and Blitz Chess Championships, which will take place from December 26th to December 30th in the historically rich city of Samarkand, Uzbekistan.

The opening ceremony, held today at the Conference hall of the hotel “Silk Road by Minyoun, unveiled a spectacular convergence of art, culture, and history. The hour-long event commemorated the history of chess, the significance of the World Rapid and Blitz competitions, Uzbekistan’s rising prominence in the chess world, and the rich heritage of Samarkand.

The ceremony started with a video chronicling the recent history of the World Rapid and Blitz tournament and highlighting the key moments from previous events. The next part was all about the money: a group of performers dressed in black and white – resembling chess pieces – got up to the stage, carrying a chest which, as it turned out, had one million dollars in cash in it. It wasn’t clear if the money was real or face, but the high presence of security guards sparked questions from the audience.

In another part of the ceremony, attention was drawn to Uzbekistan’s ongoing Third Renaissance – representing a third wave of cultural, intellectual, and national reform the nation has embarked on. It was revealed that a part of that project involves chess and that the government is channelling resources into educational initiatives and state-of-the-art facilities. A testament to this commitment is the establishment of one of the world’s most expansive chess centers dedicated to learning. In the press conference earlier in the day, Magnus Carlsen underscored this by saying that when asked in Kazakhstan last year what the best way to develop chess is, he responded, “I just said, look at what Uzbekistan is doing”.

Mr. Adkham Ikramov, Minister of Youth Policy and Sports of the Republic of Uzbekistan, conveyed his excitement, stating, “Uzbekistan is very pleased to be hosting such an important event in Samarkand, an ancient but modern city. The interest in the media, both from the region and abroad, is huge, and we are thankful for that. Each day for the past four months, we worked hard on this event, and we hope the next six days will be fruitful and successful”.

Arkady Dvorkovich, President of the International Chess Federation (FIDE), expressed gratitude to Uzbekistan for hosting the event and emphasized FIDE’s objective to organize more global chess events, providing enthusiasts worldwide the chance to witness their heroes in action.

“Dear friends, in the next five days, new pages of chess history will be written. Many of the world’s finest players have come together to fight for the crowns in Rapid and Blitz chess. There will be excitement and tension, happy and sad moments, but above all – sportsmanship must prevail. To the players, the organizers and everyone involved in this event – I wish you the best of luck,” said Dvorkovich.

One of the main sponsors of the event is Kaspersky, the international cybersecurity company. In a statement released ahead of the event, Sandro Cisco, Head of Global Partnerships and Sponsorships at Kaspersky, said the following: “Just as chess grandmasters carefully plan their moves, cybersecurity experts employ carefully considered strategies to stay one step ahead of their cyber adversaries. At Kaspersky, we believe that understanding these parallels provides valuable insights into the complex world of cybersecurity. In keeping with the principles of strategic thinking, adaptability, and risk management, we extend our heartfelt greetings to all participating chess players, wishing them masterful moves, impregnable defences, and resolute determination. May the championship be a showcase of brilliance and unwavering skill!”

The drawing of lots

The final part of the ceremony was reserved for the traditional drawing of the lots to determine which pieces the top seed players would play with in the Rapid and the Blitz.

It transformed into a theatrical enactment where top seed Magnus Carlsen, Ju Wenjun and Lei Tingjie took part, which ended with them being dressed in traditional Uzbek robes in the colours of the pieces they will start the tournament with!

The drawing of lots determined the following:

Rapid:

Open – Magnus Carlsen, as the top seed, starts as White

Women’s – Ju Wenjun, as the top seed, starts as White

Blitz:

Open – Magnus Carlsen, as the top seed, starts as White

Women’s – Lei Tingjie, as the top seed, starts as White

December 25, 2023December 25, 2023 by Abhishek Shukla

PKL 10: Captain Jaideep Dahiya leads Haryana Steelers to emphatic victory over Tamil Thalaivas

CHENNAI, 25th December: Haryana Steelers cruised to a 42-29 victory over Tamil Thalaivas at the SDAT Multipurpose Indoor Stadium in the Pro Kabaddi League Season 10 match on Monday. Tamil Thalaivas’ poor form in their home continued as this was their fourth consecutive loss in the season. Their only positive takeaway was Sahil Gulia, the left corner, finishing with 10 tackle points.

Haryana Steelers came into the game with excellent form and rode the momentum to storm to a 5-1 lead. Both teams opted to play to their defences and the Tamil Thalaivas managed an early comeback through two SUPER TACKLES to trail 6-7 in the 11th minute.

However, Vinay produced one of the raids of the season to put the Steelers ahead 14-7. Up against a three-man defence, he got past Himanshu Singh, Nitesh Kumar and a managed last-gasp touch on Ajinkya Pawar before showing incredible backtracking skills and court awareness to get his fingers past the mid-line and inflict the ALL OUT. That raid set the tone of the opening half as the Steelers went into the break leading 18-12.

The Thalaivas had a poor first 20 minutes as they managed just four raid points and their ace raider Narender, who was brought back to the squad for this game, was substituted.

The Steelers continued to hold a lead of 7-8 points in the second half as Shivam Patare came off the bench to take over their raiding responsibilities. The Thalaivas had a golden chance to make a comeback in the 29th minute, but Rahul Sethpal executed a SUPER TACKLE to eliminate Jatin and extend his side’s lead at 29-20. The tackle also completed Rahul’s High 5.

The Steelers were reduced to three men yet again – in the 31st and 33rd minute – but the defence bailed them out as Rahul and Jaideep Dahiya both produced SUPER TACKLES. The Steelers led 35-22 with 5 minutes to go. The Thalaivas tried their best to reduce the deficit, but yet another SUPER TACKLE from Mohit capped off the victory for Manpreet Singh’s side. The 13-point win margin marked the Steelers’ biggest win of the season.

Please find below the Pro Kabaddi League Season 10 points table:

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

Game 1 – Puneri Paltan vs Patna Pirates – 8 pm

Venue: Chennai

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

December 25, 2023December 25, 2023 by Abhishek Shukla

UKK: Gujarat Giants ease past Rajasthan Warriors to begin Ultimate Kho Kho Season 2 with victory

Cuttack, December 25, 2023: Gujarat Giants showcased a complete performance in attack and defence as they defeated Rajasthan Warriors 41-30 in their first match of the Ultimate Kho Kho Season 2 at the Jawaharlal Nehru Indoor Stadium in Cuttack on Monday.

P Narasayya contributed to the Giants’ win with 8 points while Sanket Kadam and Suyash Gargate notched up 6 points each in the match.

Shubham Thorat, Abhinandan Patil and Akshay Bhangare defended brilliantly for more than 6.53 minutes to earn crucial dream run bonus points for the winning team.

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.

Gujarat Giants stayed on the top of the game from the get-go as they earned a dream run in the first turn, allowing Rajasthan Warriors to get only 14 points. They maintained their positive intent when they switched to chase and notched up 22 points to obtain a big lead in the first inning.

Rajasthan Warriors began the second inning aggressively and got the first batch of Gujarat’s defence in just 1.30 minutes. However, Gujarat Giants then earned two dream run bonus points to turn the match completely in their favour. Rajasthan managed to gain 16 points during the third turn but it wasn’t enough as Gujarat secured 16 points in turn four as well to clinch the contest.

Gujarat Giants will now clash with Mumbai Khiladis on Tuesday while defending champions Odisha Juggernauts will face Chennai Quick Guns in their second match of Ultimate Kho Kho Season 2.

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.

December 25, 2023December 25, 2023 by Abhishek Shukla

PKL 10: Naveen surpasses 1000 raid points as Dabang Delhi K.C. register convincing victory

CHENNAI, 25^th December, 2023: Naveen produced a masterclass as Dabang Delhi K.C. recorded a 38-29 victory over Bengal Warriors in Chennai on Monday. The Delhi Captain scored 11 raid points and also surpassed 1000 raid points in the Pro Kabaddi League.

Naveen Kumar and Ashu Malik effected raids as the Dabang Delhi K.C. took the lead at 3-0 in the third minute. The Delhi side continued to put pressure on the Warriors and reduced them to two members on the mat. Moments later, Delhi tackled Shrikant Jadhav and inflicted the first ALL OUT of the match to take a massive lead at 9-2. Maninder Singh picked up a couple of raid points, but Delhi still held the lead at 10-5 in the 9th minute.

Ashish effected a couple of brilliant tackles as Dabang Delhi K.C. continued to hold the lead at 14-7 in the 14th minute. Naveen pulled off a fantastic running hand touch and reduced the Warriors to just two members on the mat in the 16th minute. The Delhi side tackled Nitin Kumar and inflicted another ALL OUT just before the break. Dabang Delhi K.C. held a decent lead at 23-16 at the end of the first half.

Delhi’s defence unit tackled Maninder Singh and Shrikant Jadhav in the opening minutes of the second half and helped its team to take a massive lead at 27-18 in the 25th minute. Moments later, Naveen registered his 1000th raid point in the Pro Kabaddi League.

Maninder Singh and Shrikant Jadhav tried to attain momentum through raid points, but the Delhi defence continued to stand tall and ensure that its team stayed ahead at 30-20 in the 31st minute. Naveen kept picking up raid points as Dabang Delhi K.C. held a comfortable lead at 32-22 in the 34th minute. The side from the capital city rode on the momentum and eventually closed out a comprehensive victory.

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

Game 1 – Puneri Paltan vs Patna Pirates – 8 pm

Venue: Chennai

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

December 25, 2023December 25, 2023 by Abhishek Shukla

ISL: Upbeat Punjab FC look to breach difficult Odisha FC backline

New Delhi, 25 December 2023: Punjab FC will look to ride on the highs of their maiden Indian Super League (ISL) victory last week as they prepare to host Odisha FC on December 26, Tuesday, at the Jawaharlal Nehru Stadium in New Delhi to commence the 12th matchweek of the season. After a 10-match-long barren run seeking their inaugural win, the ISL debutants fuelled the fire with a Madih Talal inspired winner to secure the victory against Chennaiyin FC last week.

To go into the season break with two wins in two games will be incredible for the team, and they will be hoping to get the desired outcome considering that the Juggernauts come into this match after a rather unexpected goalless draw against East Bengal FC. It has been a middling campaign for Punjab FC so far. Starting off afresh in the top-tier was never going to be easy, but five draws in 11 games suggest that they have matched their more fancied oppositions many times over the last few months.

Their defensive solidity, coupled with Talal’s sharp creativity and goal-scoring instinct propelled their success against the Marina Machans, and Punjab FC will be eager to hold tight to those strengths against Sergio Lobera’s men.

Odisha FC are fifth in the table and a draw against the Red & Gold Brigade must have raised some questions within the camp given that they would have backed themselves to take three points from that fixture. Dropping points just deepens them in the mid-table muddle and the Juggernauts should aim to get above these setbacks and contend for the top spot in the second half of the campaign. The last match should be taken as an aberration for Odisha FC, who managed to shoot on target only once in the Salt Lake Stadium.

What’s at stake?

Punjab FC

Punjab FC will be gearing up nicely for their first-ever ISL encounter against Odisha FC, but a deterring record must be troubling them, which is the fact that they haven’t won in their maiden encounter against any team this season. Even their victory against Chennaiyin FC came during their second faceoff against the Owen Coyle-coached team. It is likely that they might be better off taking learning from each opposition, given that every side might be an unknown commodity for them at the moment. They can arguably work on stitching together more sustainable attacking patterns in the final third, though.

Punjab FC have taken 47% of their shots from outside of the box in this campaign, which is the highest amongst all teams. Though it speaks highly of the individual brilliance and confidence amongst their players, a team naturally enhances their goal-scoring chances when they start testing the opposition’s goalkeeper from nearer or inside the box. Talal’s winner in the previous game testified that, as he blazed into the box and fired one past Debjit Majumder on the near post to get his side the three points. Will this be an insight that Punjab FC intends to work upon in this match? Let’s wait and watch.

Odisha FC

Odisha FC have kept four clean sheets in their last five games, including a couple in the last two games on a bounce. Never before in the ISL have the Juggernauts not conceded a goal in three consecutive matches. However, a disciplined defensive unit is the base or the foundation upon which the success of any Lobera-coached side is built. The centre-back duo of Mourtada Fall and Carlos Delgado has been at the top of the game throughout, with the former chipping in with crucial goals, helping them maximise set-piece situations from time to time.

The midfield has blended creativity with a sense of solidity that ensures that both the objectives are fulfilled, whereas the frontline headed by the experienced duo of Roy Krishna and Diego Mauricio instil significant confidence amongst the players. To cap it all off, they have a seasoned goalkeeper in Amrinder Singh, who has become the custodian to keep the most clean sheets (42) in ISL history. Despite the strength of their offensive unit, Odisha FC did not really fire from all cylinders in the match against East Bengal FC. Such minor slip ups can be costly for their overall ambitions for the season, and hence Lobera should be looking to get his men back on track from the forthcoming fixture onwards.

Key Players

Madih Talal (Punjab FC)

It’s difficult to look beyond the 26-year-old French attacking midfielder after he single-handedly pioneered Punjab FC to victory in the previous match. Madih Talal was the star of the show against Chennaiyin FC, and he will have to be the star of many such shows moving forward for his team to see similar successes in the second half of the season. In 11 appearances, Talal has one goal and two assists to his name. He has created 19 goal-scoring opportunities, taking 23 shots, and earning a total of 34 fouls so far.

His interlinking with Luka Majcen and Juan Mera can induce incredible creativity and sharpness in Punjab FC’s offensive endeavours. More than anything, Talal is gifted enough to take on the opposition and produce a magical moment in an individual capacity against the flow of events. Such unpredictability is often helpful, provided Punjab FC can still hope by resting on his shoulders even if they are pegged back by Odisha FC in certain phases of the upcoming game.

Amrinder Singh (Odisha FC)

Amrinder Singh has arguably rediscovered his best form under Lobera – the manager under whom he captained Mumbai City FC to the historic domestic league double in ISL 2020-21. His reflexes have been sharp, and his distribution has been accurate, allowing Odisha FC to build attacking moves in different ways. He has the ability to launch a long ball to target forwards like Krishna and Mauricio upfront, ensuring that the Juggernauts can take a more direct route to the goal whenever required too. One of Punjab FC’s biggest strengths is to test the opposition from distance, and Amrinder is well adept at thwarting them, having made 11 saves against shots from outside the box in the current ISL season, the most by any goalkeeper to have maintained a 100% save rate against such shots in 2023-24.

Head-to-Head

This is the first fixture in the ISL between the two sides.

Trivia: Odisha FC midfielder Ahmed Jahouh has made the most successful long passes (104) by any player in ISL 2023-24.

Team Talk

“We are completely focused on today. About the game, I think they (Punjab FC) are playing well; they are trying to play good football. I like the team very much. Obviously, it’s their first season and the competition in the ISL is very difficult. But they have shown progress and the last win must have given them motivation for this game,” Odisha FC head coach Sergio Lobera said in the pre-match press conference.

“We are very happy that we won our first match in the ISL. But, we have made many mistakes in the past when we played well, were winning, but could not register the win. So, we should be more conscious about our upcoming matches, and also plan accordingly to give a good performance tomorrow,” Punjab FC assistant coach Sankarlal Chakraborty said prior to the game.

ISL Fantasy

Juan Mera (7.8cr)

One goal and two assists in ISL 2023-24

Madih Talal (5.5cr)

Scored the winner against Chennaiyin FC

Amrinder Singh (4.2cr)

Five clean sheets in 10 appearances this season

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

December 25, 2023December 25, 2023 by Abhishek Shukla

Teams seek to sign off 2023 on a high as ISL 2023-24 reaches halfway mark with upcoming Matchweek 12

The Indian Super League (ISL) 2023-24 matchweek 12 commences on Boxing Day, Tuesday, post-Christmas celebrations. As the competition heads to take a break at the halfway stage, Odisha FC will play twice in the coming set of matches, whereas teams from across the table square off against each other to move forward in their quest of realising their objectives for the campaign.

Punjab FC and Jamshedpur FC will hope to build on their confidence and momentum from their much-needed victories last week, whereas the duo of Mohun Bagan Super Giant and Mumbai City FC will look to bounce back from their recent setbacks. FC Goa will round off the first-half of the ISL 2023-24 season in Guwahati against NorthEast United FC, as the Highlanders hope to break free from their six-match winless run. Here are certain key themes to look forward to in the coming week of the campaign.

Marquee clash in Kolkata

Mohun Bagan Super Giant (MBSG) is in a difficult spot at the moment, having lost their last two games against Mumbai City FC and FC Goa. These matches were opportunities for them to bridge the gaps at the top of the standings, but the Mariners were unable to do so, arguably compelling head coach Juan Ferrando to go back to the drawing board.

On December 27, they await the arrival of the high-flying Kerala Blasters FC, who beat the Islanders 2-0 in Kochi on Sunday. Ivan Vukomanovic and his side are a different threat at home though, and the Mariners will be riding on the support of their own fan base as these two star-studded teams clash promising fierce fireworks and some top-class footballing action in matchweek 12.

Odisha FC can’t afford dropping points

Sergio Lobera & Co. hit a roadblock in Kolkata when they played a goalless draw against East Bengal FC. The Juggernauts could hit only a shot on target during the game as they succumbed to their third draw of the season, taking their tally of dropped points to 12 after 10 games.

Lobera will be hopeful of warding off these concerns at the home of Punjab FC on Tuesday, before they host Jamshedpur FC on December 29. There is undoubted quality and experience stuffed in this Odisha FC unit and that has reflected in their successes in the AFC Cup too. However, they need to brush aside these temporary phases of inconsistency that can take a big toll in their eventual outcome of the campaign.

Mumbai City FC, Chennaiyin FC seek turnarounds

Chennaiyin FC were nicely garnering some positive momentum before they were hit with a defeat against Punjab FC in New Delhi. However, Owen Coyle has had enough time to make corrections to that as the Marina Machans prepare to take on Mumbai City FC away from home on December 28. Chennaiyin FC have found their goal-scoring boots, thanks to a gifted frontline as they have struck the back of the net 15 times in 11 games.

Regardless of the purported gap in the quality of their squad and the Islanders, Coyle is capable of making his team take the game to the Islanders. Mumbai City FC heads into this match after a disappointing 2-0 defeat to the Kerala Blasters FC, which brought curtains down to their unbeaten start to the season. With two goalless draws and a defeat in the four matches since Petr Kratky took over, Mumbai City FC will be keen to find answers to their woes before the league break.

FC Goa looks to sign off the year in style

With Mumbai City FC’s loss in Kochi, FC Goa is the only team who is yet to face a defeat this season. With seven victories and two draws, their 23 points equals Bengaluru FC’s record from 2018-19 for the best start for any team in an ISL season after nine matches. The Gaurs now have a chance to go into the January break with a clean slate if they avoid a defeat in Guwahati against NorthEast United FC.

Manolo Marquez and his men have been relentless thus far, sweeping past even the best of opponents in sublime style. Their 4-1 victory against the Mohun Bagan Super Giant was the biggest loss that the Mariners have faced at home in ISL history, and the Gaurs look set to break many such records if they are able to continue this rich vein of form for the rest of the campaign.

Team of the Week

Goalkeeper: Amrinder Singh (Odisha FC)

Defenders: Nishu Kumar (East Bengal FC), Suresh Meitei (Punjab FC), Marko Leskovic (Kerala Blasters FC), Jessel Carneiro (Bengaluru FC)

Midfielders: Amarjit Singh Kiyam (Punjab FC), Suresh Singh Wangjam (Bengaluru FC), Madih Talal (Punjab FC)

Forwards: Noah Sadaoui (FC Goa), Dimitrios Diamantakos (Kerala Blasters FC), Daniel Chima Chukwu (Jamshedpur FC)

ISL Fantasy Data

Points- 77

Average points: 40

Top 5 point scorers:

Daniel Chima Chukwu- 14 points

Bipin Singh- 11 points

Noah Sadaoui- 11 points

Dimitrios Diamantakos – 9 points

Kwame Peprah – 9 points

Ones to watch:

Kwame Peprah

Amey Ranawade

Sandesh Jhingan

Bipin Singh

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, will be awarded to 100 winners at the end of the season. Sign up at: https://fantasy.indiansuperleague.com/

Where to catch the ISL action

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December 25, 2023December 25, 2023 by Abhishek Shukla

‘I told Pawan to give his 100 percent against us,’ says Bengaluru Bulls’ Head Coach Randhir Singh

CHENNAI, 25th December 2023: The Bengaluru Bulls pulled off a gripping 33-31 victory over Telugu Titans in the Pro Kabaddi League Season 10 on Sunday. Speaking about the victory, Bengaluru Bulls’ Head Coach Randhir Singh said, “This win will certainly boost the morale of the team. It was an up-and-down match. We were coming off a tough loss against Puneri Paltan. I won’t forget that game. However, the team has bounced back now.”

The Head Coach further added, “We knew that we had to stop Pawan as much as possible. The two tackles against him in the latter part of the game helped us win the match.”

Randhir Singh, who worked with Pawan Sehrawat for five seasons at Bengaluru Bulls, spoke to the star raider just before the game. When asked about their conversation, the Head Coach said, “We have a father-son relationship. I taught him kabaddi from scratch. I told him to give his 100 percent before the match and I said I would give my best as well. And he also told me that he knows all of my strategies, but I also know how he plays.”

Preview for the match on TuesdayThe match between Puneri Paltan and Patna Pirates promises to be a blockbuster one. The Pirates are high on confidence after their 46-33 victory over the Tamil Thalaivas in their previous match. Meanwhile, the Puneri Paltan have registered three consecutive victories against Bengal Warriors, Dabang Delhi K.C. and Bengaluru Bulls respectively.

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

Game 1 – Puneri Paltan vs Patna Pirates – 8 pm

Venue: Chennai

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

December 25, 2023December 25, 2023 by Abhishek Shukla

Manju Rani, Sakshi storm into quarters at 7th Elite Women’s National Boxing Championships

Greater Noida, December 25, 2023: The 2019 World championship silver medalist Manju Rani (48kg) and two-time youth world champion Sakshi (57kg) maintained their impressive form by advancing to the quarterfinals on day four of the 7th Elite Women’s National Boxing Championships at the GBU Indoor Stadium in Greater Noida.

Representing the Railway Sports Promotion Board (RSPB), Manju Rani showcased her experience and skills against Guddi of Chandigarh as she secured a 5-0 victory. The pugilist is now set to face Sanjana of Delhi in the quarterfinals on Monday

.In another matchup, Sakshi of SSCB faced Telangana’s Refa Mohid in a round-of-16 bout. Sakshi’s aggressive approach and hard-hitting punches were too difficult to handle for Refa which resulted in a referee stopping the contest in Sakshi’s favour in round one. Sakshi will go head-to-head against Aarti Mehra of Chandigarh in the quarterfinals.

In other significant bouts, the 2022 Senior national champion Shashi Chopra(63kg) went up against Aarti Dariyal of Uttarakhand. Shashi displayed her prowess as she secured the victory with a unanimous decision and moved into the last eight of the tournament. Shashi will face Sonu of All India Police for a spot in the semifinals.

Meanwhile, in the 66kg match, Ankushita Boro was up against Mizoram’s Vanlalhriatpuii. Ankushita dominated the proceedings throughout and ultimately won the bout comfortably with a 5-0 score. She will face Anjali Tushir of RSPB in the quartfinals.

The ongoing prestigious tournament, organised by the Boxing Federation of India, has been witnessing the participation of more than 300 boxers competing in 12 categories. The finals will be played on Wednesday.