by Richard Miller (US)

NBA: Clippers Rout Pacers 151-127 Behind Leonard, George, and Harden’s Stellar Performance

INDIANAPOLIS — The Los Angeles Clippers, propelled by their star trio of Kawhi Leonard, Paul George, and James Harden, continued their dominant run by securing their eighth straight win, defeating the Indiana Pacers 151-127 on Monday night.

Kawhi Leonard and Paul George led the charge for most of the game, scoring 28 and 27 points respectively. However, it was James Harden’s explosive performance in the fourth quarter that sealed the deal for the Clippers. Harden, displaying his scoring prowess, racked up 21 of his season-high 35 points in the final quarter, leaving the Pacers struggling to catch up.

The Clippers, currently on their longest winning streak since the 2015-16 season, showcased their offensive might by registering the fourth-highest scoring total in franchise history and the highest this season. Their impressive victory over Indiana was marked by a dynamic offensive strategy against the NBA’s second-worst scoring defense.

Despite a spirited effort from Bennedict Mathurin, who scored a season-high 34 points for Indiana, and Isaiah Jackson’s 15 points, the Pacers faltered. The absence of Myles Turner due to injury was felt, and All-Star guard Tyrese Haliburton, returning from a bruised knee, could only contribute eight points and 11 assists, marred by four turnovers.

Pacers coach Rick Carlisle expressed frustration at the team’s defensive struggles, hinting at potential massive lineup changes to address the issue. Indiana’s defense has been a point of concern, particularly after their recent 12-day road trip that seemed to have affected their usual high-energy play.

Paul George, facing his former team and the familiar boos from Indiana fans, continued his exceptional form in Indiana, averaging 36 points in his last five games at the venue. The Pacers initially held their own, leading 51-46 in the second quarter, but the Clippers quickly turned the tide with a 21-6 run, taking a commanding lead by halftime and never looking back.

Harden’s efficiency was a highlight, as he shot 12 of 16 from the field and 8 of 11 on 3-pointers, adding nine assists. Leonard emphasized the team’s focus on winning each quarter and maintaining efficiency, regardless of the score.

In a poignant moment before the game, the Pacers paid tribute to two-time ABA champion George McGinnis, who passed away on Thursday, with a highlight reel and a moment of silence.

The Clippers now look forward to extending their winning streak in a matchup against Dallas on Wednesday, while the Pacers hope to bounce back when they host Charlotte the same night.

by Matt Windsor (US)

NFL: Lock’s Late Heroics Lift Seahawks Over Eagles 20-17

SEATTLE, WA — In a dramatic Monday night showdown, the Seattle Seahawks, led by backup quarterback Drew Lock, orchestrated a remarkable comeback to defeat the Philadelphia Eagles 20-17. This victory, ending a four-game losing streak, thrust the Seahawks back into NFC playoff contention.

Seattle (7-7) showcased resilience, particularly in the game’s final moments. Lock, filling in for the injured Geno Smith, engineered a 92-yard drive, the team’s longest touchdown drive of the season, culminating in a 29-yard touchdown pass to rookie Jaxon Smith-Njigba with just 28 seconds remaining.

Smith-Njigba’s touchdown, his most significant contribution yet, came after he beat Eagles cornerback James Bradberry on third-and-10. Lock’s precision on this crucial play was a highlight of his performance, which included pivotal completions to DK Metcalf during the drive.

The Eagles (10-4), despite already securing a playoff spot, suffered their third consecutive loss, missing the chance to pull ahead of the Dallas Cowboys in the NFC East. Philadelphia’s quarterback Jalen Hurts, playing despite a recent illness, had a mixed night with two rushing touchdowns but also two costly interceptions, both to Julian Love.

Love’s interceptions were crucial, with his second pick sealing the game after he intercepted Hurts’ deep pass intended for A.J. Brown. His first interception came midway through the fourth quarter in the end zone, preventing the Eagles from extending their 17-13 lead.

Lock finished the game 22 of 33 for 208 yards, while Hurts rushed for 82 yards but struggled in the passing game, completing only 17 of 31 attempts.The Seahawks also benefited from Kenneth Walker III’s 23-yard touchdown run, in which Lock played a key role as a lead blocker. Walker ended the game with 86 rushing yards.

Seattle’s win creates a tight race among several .500 teams vying for the NFC’s last two playoff spots. This victory also demonstrates Seattle’s ability to compete under pressure and the potential of their young talent.

The Eagles, looking to regroup after their recent losses, will host the New York Giants on Christmas Day, while the Seahawks travel to face the Tennessee Titans on Sunday. For Seattle, this win marks a significant step in their push for a playoff berth, showcasing their grit and determination.

by Matt Windsor (US)

NHL: Ducks Edge Red Wings 4-3, Henrique and Terry Shine in Victory

DETROIT, MI — The Anaheim Ducks claimed a hard-fought 4-3 win over the Detroit Red Wings at Little Caesars Arena on Monday. Adam Henrique and Troy Terry led the way for the Ducks, each contributing a goal and an assist.

The Ducks (12-19-0) have found a semblance of form, winning back-to-back games following a tough stretch where they lost 13 of their previous 14 matches. Goalie Lukas Dostal was key to their success, making 29 saves, while Radko Gudas and Pavel Mintyukov also scored.

For the Red Wings (15-12-4), who are experiencing a rough patch with six losses in their last seven games, Alex DeBrincat stood out with two goals, and Patrick Kane and Shayne Gostisbehere each provided two assists. The Red Wings started with Ville Husso in goal, who made six saves before exiting with a lower-body injury, and James Reimer stepped in to make 12 saves in relief.

The Ducks took an early lead with Gudas scoring just over two minutes into the first period. Mintyukov doubled the advantage midway through the period, with a shot that deflected off Red Wings captain Dylan Larkin. Henrique’s power-play goal late in the first period increased the lead to 3-0.

Terry further extended the Ducks’ lead early in the second period, capitalizing on a rebound. Despite a strong start, the Ducks faced pressure in the latter stages of the game, particularly when the Red Wings’ Jeff Petry and DeBrincat scored to narrow the gap.

DeBrincat’s two power-play goals in the third period brought his NHL point tally to 400, adding a sense of urgency to the game’s closing minutes. However, the Ducks managed to hold on for the win, with Dostal nearly scoring a goal himself in the final moments.

Injuries were a concern for both teams, with Red Wings forward Klim Kostin leaving the game after a collision and Ducks goalie John Gibson absent due to an injury from the previous game.

The win is a morale booster for the Ducks, who have struggled this season but showed resilience and effectiveness in critical moments. The Red Wings, meanwhile, will look to regroup and address their recent difficulties as they continue their campaign. Both teams played with backup goalies, adding an extra layer of challenge to the matchup.

by Matt Windsor (US)

NHL: Crosby Leads Penguins to 4-3 Win Over Wild, Climbs NHL Points Ladder

PITTSBURGH, PA — Sidney Crosby’s goal and assist propelled the Pittsburgh Penguins to a narrow 4-3 victory over the Minnesota Wild at PPG Paints Arena on Monday. Crosby’s performance was not only pivotal in the game but also marked his ascent to the 13th most points in NHL history, surpassing Mark Recchi.

Crosby’s landmark achievement came in a game where the Penguins had to fend off a strong comeback from the Wild. Jake Guentzel and Evgeni Malkin each contributed a goal and an assist, while goaltender Alex Nedeljkovic made 24 saves. The Penguins (14-13-3), recovering from a 7-0 loss to the Toronto Maple Leafs, have now won three of their last four games.

The Wild (12-13-4), who had been on a three-game winning streak, found themselves down by three goals before mounting a significant comeback in the third period. Ryan Hartman, Jake Middleton, and Vinni Lettieri each scored for Minnesota, with Filip Gustavsson making 25 saves in the effort.

Pittsburgh established an early lead with Reilly Smith scoring in the first period, followed by goals from Guentzel and Malkin. The Wild responded in the third period with three consecutive goals, but Crosby’s power-play goal 47 seconds after Lettieri’s equalizer proved decisive.

Minnesota coach John Hynes praised the team’s effort to fight back into the game, while Penguins coach Mike Sullivan highlighted the team’s need to bring solutions and understand what ‘Penguins hockey’ looks like.Injuries and absences played a role in the game. Minnesota forward Mats Zuccarello was out with an upper-body injury and is day-to-day, while Wild goalie Marc-Andre Fleury, a former Penguin, backed up Gustavsson and is expected to start the next game.

For Crosby, the game-winning goal was his 89th career game-winner, tying him with Luc Robitaille for 24th in NHL history. Crosby’s career game-winning points now stand at 254 (89 goals, 165 assists), the sixth-most in NHL history.

The Penguins’ win was a showcase of their resilience and ability to hold off a surging opponent, while the Wild will look to rebound from this close loss. Up next for the Penguins is a game against the Boston Bruins, while the Wild continue their back-to-back against the Bruins on Tuesday.

by Matt Windsor (US)

NHL: Barron’s Overtime Winner Lifts Canadiens Over Jets 3-2

WINNIPEG, MB — The Montreal Canadiens clinched a thrilling 3-2 victory over the Winnipeg Jets at the Canada Life Centre on Monday, with Justin Barron scoring the decisive power-play goal in overtime. The Canadiens’ triumph was underpinned by a strong team effort and crucial saves from goaltender Jake Allen.

Barron’s winning goal came just 1:09 into the overtime period, finding the glove side from the high slot. The opportunity arose after the Jets’ Nikolaj Ehlers was penalized for tripping late in the third period.

Josh Anderson made significant contributions for Montreal, scoring a goal and assisting another, helping the Canadiens (14-13-4) to earn points in four of their last five games. Jake Allen, who had been seeking a win since late October, made 30 saves, marking a crucial turning point in his season.

The Jets (18-9-3), despite the loss, have been performing well in December, with a record of 6-1-1 this month. Goalie Connor Hellebuyck made 23 saves, but it wasn’t enough to secure a win for Winnipeg.

Anderson’s goal, which opened the scoring in the second period, was a stroke of luck as the puck deflected off his leg and into the net. Christian Dvorak later doubled Montreal’s lead with a power-play goal, capitalizing on a loose puck in a scramble in front of the net.

Winnipeg’s coach Rick Bowness challenged the play for a missed game stoppage, but the goal was upheld after video review. Gabriel Vilardi then narrowed the gap for the Jets just before the second intermission, skillfully tucking the puck in at the left post.

The Jets’ Cole Perfetti tied the game in the third period, burying a rebound in front, setting the stage for the game’s dramatic conclusion in overtime.

The victory is a significant morale booster for the Canadiens, who have shown resilience and an ability to capitalize on opportunities. The Jets, on the other hand, will look to bounce back from this setback and continue their strong run this season.

by Matt Windsor (US)

NHL: Harley’s Overtime Goal Lifts Stars Over Kraken 4-3

DALLAS, TX — In an exhilarating contest at the American Airlines Center, the Dallas Stars edged out the Seattle Kraken 4-3 in overtime on Monday. Thomas Harley was the hero, scoring the game-winning goal 2:16 into the extra period, ensuring a comeback victory for Dallas.

Matt Duchene played a pivotal role in the Stars’ triumph, contributing two goals and an assist. His impact was particularly felt in overtime when he set up Harley’s decisive goal with a precise cross-ice pass. Earlier, Duchene had opened the scoring for Dallas in the first period, following a skillful give-and-go with Tyler Seguin.

Jason Robertson also found the net for the Stars, capitalizing on a neutral zone turnover forced by Roope Hintz, and converting it into a successful 2-on-1 breakaway. Joe Pavelski added two assists, underscoring the Stars’ offensive depth. Goalie Scott Wedgewood made an impressive 35 saves, playing a key role in Dallas’s win.

The Stars (18-8-4) have been in good form, gaining points in five of their last six games, with a record of 4-1-1 during this stretch.

For the Kraken (10-14-9), Matty Beniers and Tomas Tatar each contributed a goal and an assist. Tatar, recently acquired from the Colorado Avalanche, marked his first goal for Seattle, sneaking a rebound through Wedgewood’s defense. Beniers kept the Kraken in contention with a high-slot shot, bringing the score to 3-2.

The Kraken’s resilience was on display when Eeli Tolvanen tied the game at 3-3 with just 22 seconds left in the third period. Tolvanen’s goal, scored with the goalie pulled for an extra attacker, was confirmed after a video review for a potential offside infraction. Despite their efforts, the Kraken fell short in overtime, suffering their second consecutive loss after a brief winning streak.

Joey Daccord, in goal for Seattle, made 24 saves but couldn’t stop the Stars’ offensive onslaught, especially in the crucial moments of overtime.

The Stars’ victory was a testament to their ability to capitalize on opportunities and make a strong push in the tightly contested game. As they continue their impressive run, the Kraken will aim to regroup and find consistency in their upcoming matches.

by Abhishek Shukla

Girona Surges to Top of LaLiga with Commanding 3-0 Victory Over Alaves

GIRONA – In a remarkable twist in the LaLiga narrative, Girona FC, once considered underdogs, soared to the league summit with a resounding 3-0 win over Alaves. Ukrainian forward Artem Dovbyk’s brace and a goal from Portu propelled the Catalan side to a two-point lead over Real Madrid.

Girona’s Ascendancy – Girona, continuing their exceptional form, took control from the outset. Dovbyk’s instinctive strike in the 23rd minute opened the scoring, pouncing on a rebound off the goalkeeper. Portu then doubled the advantage with a sublime effort from the edge of the box just before halftime.

A significant aspect of Girona’s strategy was their dominance on the right flank, with Brazilian full-back Yan Couto causing constant trouble for Alaves’ defense. His pace and dribbling skills were a persistent threat, culminating in a penalty earned by Couto in the 59th minute.

Dovbyk, seizing the opportunity, confidently converted the penalty, sending the ball straight down the middle to notch his second goal of the match.

This victory marks Girona’s 14th win in 17 games, the best record across Europe’s top five leagues at this stage. Their only notable setback was a defeat to Real Madrid in late September.

Portu’s post-match reflections encapsulated Girona’s ethos – a relentless hunger for success and a focus on day-to-day progress without getting complacent.

Girona’s win places them at the pinnacle of LaLiga with 44 points, leading over traditional giants Real Madrid and Barcelona. Their fairytale run, especially after gaining promotion just two seasons ago, has sparked conversations about their potential to clinch an unprecedented title.

Girona FC’s triumph over Alaves isn’t just a win; it’s a statement of intent. Their consistent performances, tactical acumen, and team spirit have turned them into genuine title contenders, challenging the established hierarchy of Spanish football. Their journey this season is a testament to the unpredictability and competitiveness of LaLiga.

by Abhishek Shukla

Japan finish 2023 on top of WBSC/KONAMI Men’s Baseball World Ranking

The World Baseball Softball Confederation and Konami Digital Entertainment Inc. have expanded their global partnership to incorporate the WBSC World Rankings naming rights.

Premier12, World Baseball Classic and Olympic champions Japan maintained its grip on the No.1 position of the WBSC/KONAMI Men’s Baseball World Ranking, following the latest ranking update on Monday.

Japan’s points tally has increased by 225 points to 5,797 following their win in the XXX BFA Asian Championship. The ranking update also includes the results of the WBSC U-15 Baseball World Cup Oceania Qualifier.The top 26 men’s baseball programmes maintained their positions in the ranking with Mexico (4,764) in second place and the United States (4,492) No. 3.

The Philippines (318) are the most improved programme among the top 30, improving by four positions to No. 28.

Hong Kong, China (223) climbed five positions to reach No. 32.

Two programmes particularly enjoying the benefits of their performances at the XXX BFA Asian Championship are Pakistan (155) climbing 11 positions to reach No. 38, while Palestine (82) improved nine positions to a record high of No. 46.The WBSC/KONAMI Men’s Baseball World Ranking includes 80 programmes across the five Olympic continents.

by Abhishek Shukla

MLB: Baltimore Orioles Secure Future at Camden Yards with Historic 30-Year Agreement

BALTIMORE, MD – The Baltimore Orioles have struck a pivotal 30-year agreement with the State of Maryland, Governor Wes Moore, and the Maryland Stadium Authority, ensuring their continued presence at the iconic Camden Yards. This landmark deal, which aligns with the broad goals outlined in a memorandum of understanding from earlier this year, cements the Orioles’ commitment to Baltimore and its fans, while promising to rejuvenate the surrounding area and the Downtown Corridor.

A New Era for Camden Yards

Greg Bader, Chief Operating Officer of the Baltimore Orioles, expressed pride in achieving a mutually beneficial agreement that reimagines the partnership for future generations. “After a lengthy and complex process, we look forward to enhancements to Camden Yards that the Baltimore community can enjoy for decades to come,” said Bader.

A Win for Maryland Taxpayers and Baseball Fans

Governor Wes Moore emphasized that the agreement prioritizes Maryland taxpayers, ensures the Orioles’ long-term presence in Baltimore, and benefits the entire city. “This agreement will not only enhance the world-class fan experience at Camden Yards, but the entire city as well,” stated Governor Moore. The deal is expected to yield playoff baseball in Baltimore for years to come, a prospect that excites fans and the community alike.

Community Impact and Economic Growth

Kerry Watson, Executive Vice President of Public Affairs of the Baltimore Orioles, highlighted the opportunity for a vibrant campus that brings life to the city year-round. The agreement sets in motion plans to develop and expand the Downtown Corridor and Camden Yards campus, fostering business, economic stability, and community impact.

Orioles’ Commitment to Excellence

John Angelos, Chair and Managing Partner of the Baltimore Orioles, reaffirmed the team’s promise to fans, celebrating the continuation of Orioles baseball in Baltimore for 30 more years, marking the team’s 100th season in the city. The Orioles, who have played at Camden Yards since 1992, recently completed an exhilarating 101-win season, clinching the American League East title and making a notable appearance in the Major League Baseball Postseason. With a roster boasting young stars like AL Rookie of the Year infielder Gunnar Henderson and catcher Adley Rutschman, the Orioles’ future in Baltimore shines brightly.

This agreement not only secures the Orioles’ residence at one of baseball’s most beloved ballparks but also signals a new chapter in the team’s history, promising enhanced experiences for fans and significant contributions to the community and the state of Maryland.

by Abhishek Shukla

Slovenia Secures Gold and Promotion in U20 Ice Hockey Championship on Home Ice

BLED, SLOVENIA – In a remarkable display of skill and determination, Slovenia’s U20 ice hockey team triumphed on home ice at the 2024 IIHF Ice Hockey U20 World Championship Division 1B, securing both the gold medal and a promotion. The team’s crowning achievement came with a decisive 5-3 victory against Ukraine, propelling them into the 2025 IIHF Ice Hockey U20 World Championship Division 1 Group A.

The Final Showdown: Slovenia vs Ukraine

The gold-medal match was a high-stakes affair, with both teams showcasing their prowess. Slovenia’s Filip Sitar emerged as a key player, scoring crucial goals at pivotal moments of the game. His performance was instrumental in settling Slovenian nerves and ultimately securing the victory. The game’s climax saw Slovenia stretch their lead, ensuring their win and marking a successful start for head coach Mitja Sivic.

Slovenia’s Stellar Performers

Slovenia’s success was marked by standout performances from several players. Lan Kavcic was selected as the top goaltender of the tournament, while teammate Tian Hebar was recognized as the top defender. These individual accolades reflect the team’s overall strength and depth.

Ukraine’s Silver Lining

Despite the defeat, Ukraine’s team showed great resilience and skill, earning a respectable silver medal. Their forward, Mykyta Sydorenko, was named as the best forward of the tournament, underlining the high level of competition.

Other Tournament Highlights

Italy secured the bronze medal in a tournament that saw strong performances from multiple teams. Croatia, unfortunately, faced relegation to Division 2A. The tournament not only highlighted the emerging talents in ice hockey but also set the stage for future competitions in higher divisions.

Slovenia’s victory at the IIHF Men’s World U20 Championship Division 1B is a significant milestone, showcasing the country’s growing prowess in ice hockey. With a combination of skilled young players and effective coaching, Slovenia’s U20 team has made a statement on the international stage, promising exciting prospects for the nation’s hockey future.

by Abhishek Shukla

Ice-Hockey: Kim Sihwan’s Hat-Trick Propels Korea U20s to Promising Victory and Promotion

DUMFRIES, GREAT BRITAIN – In an exhilarating finale to the IIHF Men’s World U20 Championship Division IIA, Korea’s U20 hockey team, led by the stellar performance of Kim Sihwan, clinched gold and secured promotion. Their triumph came in a nail-biting gold-medal showdown against Great Britain, held in Dumfries, where Korea maintained a perfect record through five games.

The spotlight was on 19-year-old center Kim Sihwan, who delivered a match-defining hat-trick. Sihwan, one of the most experienced players on the Korean roster, has previously showcased his skills in the senior international division. His experience on British ice proved invaluable, helping him guide his team to a hard-earned victory. Reflecting on his performance, Kim credited his earlier senior international experience for his impressive play, noting, “That was a really good experience for me… I think that’s part of why I played well here. We came here to win promotion, and as a team, that’s what we did.”

The gold-medal game began with Kim opening the scoring, demonstrating his sharp instincts and skill. The match then evolved into a tense duel between Kim and GB’s top scorer, Jack Hopkins. Despite trailing 3-1 at one point, Korea displayed remarkable resilience. Kim’s second goal early in the final period reignited Korea’s hopes, followed by a crucial power-play goal from defender Kong Yuchan to tie the game.In a dramatic turn of events, Kim completed his hat-trick with a clincher into an empty net, sealing Korea’s 3-1 comeback victory and their promotion.

While Korea celebrated their immediate return to Division IB after last season’s relegation, British head coach Martin Grubb expressed his disappointment, acknowledging the minor details that cost them the match. Despite the loss, he praised Korea’s performance, stating, “Korea’s a great team. All tournament they played fast, free-flowing hockey.”

Lithuania capitalized on Britain’s loss to claim silver, while Britain secured third place. Among individual achievements, Kim Sihwan emerged as the top scorer with 14 points, and Kong Yuchan was recognized as the most productive defender. Britain’s Ben Norton was lauded as the top goaltender, showcasing exceptional skill throughout the tournament.Korea’s victory at the IIHF Men’s World U20 Championship Division IIA marks a significant milestone for the team, showcasing their talent and determination. Under the guidance of young stars like Kim Sihwan, the future of Korean hockey looks bright and promising.

by Matt Windsor (US)

NFL Suspends Steelers Safety Damontae Kazee for Season After Hit on Colts’ Michael Pittman Jr.

Pittsburgh, PA – In a decisive move, the NFL suspended Pittsburgh Steelers safety Damontae Kazee for the remainder of the season, including any potential postseason games, following a controversial hit during Saturday’s game against the Indianapolis Colts. The announcement came on Monday, following the incident that led to Colts receiver Michael Pittman Jr. being knocked out of the game.

The play that triggered the suspension occurred in the second quarter of the match, where Kazee delivered a forceful blow to Pittman’s head/neck area. The Colts’ receiver, who was in a defenseless posture at the time, suffered from the impact of what appeared to be a dangerous and illegal hit. This action led to Kazee’s immediate ejection from the game.

Jon Runyan, the NFL Vice President of Football Operations, personally issued the suspension. In his letter to Kazee, Runyan emphasized the severity of the violation, highlighting that the safety had a clear path to his opponent and could have avoided the illegal contact. He further noted that Kazee’s actions were not only flagrant but also in clear violation of the league’s health and safety rules.

This suspension underscores the NFL’s continued commitment to player safety, particularly in instances where repeated violations occur. Runyan’s statement pointed out the need for substantial penalties when players repeatedly disregard rules designed to protect the health of their colleagues.

Damontae Kazee has been a key player for the Steelers this season, appearing in all 14 games with nine starts. His season statistics include 61 tackles, two interceptions, and two fumble recoveries. However, his suspension will see him sidelined for the remaining regular-season games against the Bengals, Seahawks, and Ravens, as well as any potential playoff games.

Under the Collective Bargaining Agreement, Kazee holds the right to appeal the suspension. This right was recently exercised by Denver Broncos safety Kareem Jackson, who managed to get his suspension reduced from four to two games earlier this season.

The Steelers and their fans will undoubtedly feel the impact of Kazee’s absence, particularly as they head towards the crucial final stages of the regular season. The suspension serves as a stark reminder of the league’s stringent approach to on-field conduct, especially concerning player safety.

by Abhishek Shukla

MLB: Ottawa Senators Undergo Major Coaching Shake-Up, Appoint Jacques Martin as Interim Head Coach

Ottawa, ON – In a significant move, the Ottawa Senators announced a major shake-up in their coaching staff today. President of Hockey Operations and Interim General Manager Steve Staios confirmed that the team has parted ways with Head Coach D.J. Smith and Assistant Coach Davis Payne. Jacques Martin, a familiar face in the Senators’ history, steps in as the interim head coach.

This decision comes amidst a challenging phase for the Senators, who have been striving to regain their competitive edge in the league. The shake-up signifies the team’s commitment to revitalizing their on-ice strategies and overall performance.

Jacques Martin, no stranger to the Senators, makes a notable return. Having initially helmed the team from 1996 to 2004, Martin is revered for his extensive experience and deep understanding of the game. His record with the Senators during his previous tenure – a commendable 341-255-96 in regular-season play – stands as a testament to his coaching acumen. Martin also holds the franchise record for the most games coached, regular-season wins, playoff wins, and playoff games coached. His appointment is seen as a strategic move to leverage his successful history with the team during this period of transition.

In a move that has thrilled fans, the franchise also welcomes back Daniel Alfredsson in a coaching capacity. The former captain and all-time leading scorer for the Senators will join Martin’s staff as an assistant coach. Alfredsson’s deep connection with the team and his on-ice intelligence are expected to be invaluable assets in this new role.

The Senators are set to display their new coaching dynamics in the upcoming game against the Arizona Coyotes. This match will mark Martin’s return to the Ottawa bench, a moment that is highly anticipated by the Senators’ community.

Further details and insights into these changes will be provided by Steve Staios in a media briefing scheduled for Monday afternoon. The briefing will be conducted via Zoom from the team’s hotel in Tempe, Arizona, with the exact timing yet to be announced.

This coaching overhaul marks a pivotal moment for the Ottawa Senators as they seek to chart a new course in their pursuit of success. With the combined expertise of Martin and Alfredsson, the team hopes to usher in a new era of achievement and excellence on the ice.

by Abhishek Shukla

MLB: Boston Red Sox Announce 2024 Hall of Fame Inductees

BOSTON, MA – In a significant nod to their storied history, the Boston Red Sox have announced the induction of former players Trot Nixon, Jonathan Papelbon, and Dustin Pedroia into the 2024 Red Sox Hall of Fame. Alongside these baseball icons, longtime front office executive Elaine Steward will be honored as the non-uniformed inductee. The selection panel, a diverse group of 21 including club executives, media members, historians, and fan representatives, made these choices after careful deliberation.

Trot Nixon: A Red Sox Cornerstone

Trot Nixon, renowned for his pivotal role in the Red Sox outfield, has been a fan favorite since being drafted in the first round in 1993. Over 10 seasons, Nixon’s impressive stats include a .278 batting average, 133 home runs, and 523 RBIs. His remarkable consistency and significant postseason contributions, including a memorable walk-off home run in the 2003 American League Division Series, have cemented his legacy in Red Sox history.

Jonathan Papelbon: The Closer Extraordinaire

Jonathan Papelbon, a four-time All-Star and key figure in the 2007 World Series victory, redefined the closer’s role during his tenure with the Red Sox. Holding franchise records for most career saves and an outstanding postseason ERA of 1.00, Papelbon’s induction is a testament to his dominance on the mound.

Dustin Pedroia: The Heart of Red Sox

Dustin Pedroia, a lifetime Red Sox and a three-time World Series champion, exemplifies the spirit of Boston baseball. With accolades like the 2008 Most Valuable Player and multiple Gold Glove Awards, Pedroia’s .299 career batting average and defensive prowess at second base have made him a beloved figure in Red Sox lore.

Elaine Steward: Breaking Barriers in Baseball

Elaine Steward’s induction as a non-uniformed inductee recognizes her groundbreaking contributions to the Red Sox organization. Starting as an intern in 1988, Steward quickly rose through the ranks to become the first woman and the second African American to be named assistant general manager in Major League Baseball. Her influential role in contract negotiations and operations has been instrumental in the team’s successes.

A Memorable Moment: Billy Rohr’s Near-No-Hitter

Billy Rohr’s remarkable one-hitter against the New York Yankees in 1967 has been chosen as this year’s “Memorable Red Sox Moment”. Rohr’s performance, just shy of a no-hitter in his Major League debut, marked a significant moment in the Red Sox’s “Impossible Dream” season and their journey to the World Series.

The Class of 2024 will be officially inducted at the Red Sox Foundation’s Red Sox Hall of Fame & Fenway Honors event on May 29, followed by a special pre-game ceremony at Fenway Park on May 30. As the Red Sox community anticipates this celebration, these inductees stand as a testament to the rich history and enduring legacy of one of baseball’s most cherished franchises.

by Abhishek Shukla

USA Maintains Dominance in FIBA World Ranking Girls; Canada and Slovenia Make Significant Strides

MIES, Switzerland – The latest edition of the FIBA World Ranking Girls, presented by Nike, has reaffirmed the USA’s dominance in youth women’s basketball. The USA team sits comfortably at the top with 830.2 points, following their impeccable 7-0 run at the FIBA U19 Women’s Basketball World Cup 2023 in Madrid. The tournament, which saw the USA retaining their title against hosts Spain, was notably played on an innovative ASB glass floor court and witnessed a record-breaking crowd of 7,000.

France remains in the second spot with 726.2 points, thanks to their strong performances in various international tournaments, including reaching the Semi-Finals of the FIBA U19 Women’s Basketball World Cup and winning the FIBA U16 Women’s European Championship 2023.

Canada has made a notable leap to the third position, accumulating 721.1 points. This significant advancement is attributed to their third-place finish at the FIBA U19 Women’s Basketball World Cup and their run to the finals at the FIBA U16 Women’s Americas Championship 2023 in Mexico.

Spain and Australia follow in the fourth and fifth positions, respectively. However, the spotlight is on Slovenia, who have surged four places to sixth, amassing 685.6 points. This rise is primarily due to their remarkable victory at the FIBA U18 Women’s European Championship 2023.

Japan, Finland, and Croatia have also made impressive progress. Japan, now in ninth place, improved their ranking with a top-six finish at the FIBA U19 World Cup and a runner-up position in the FIBA U16 Women’s Asian Championship. Finland, climbing to the tenth spot, benefited from their semi-final appearance in the FIBA U16 Women’s European Championship. Croatia, now in the eleventh place, saw a seven-spot jump after securing the fifth place in the same tournament.

Mali’s eight-place rise to the twelfth position is another highlight, following their fifth-place finish at the FIBA U19 World Cup and an eighth consecutive title at the FIBA U16 Women’s African Championship.

Serbia has made the most dramatic climb within the top 40 nations, soaring 20 places to reach the sixteenth spot. This surge is attributed to their performances in the Semi-Finals of the FIBA U18 Women’s European Championship and the Quarter-Finals of the FIBA U16 Women’s European Championship.

This latest FIBA ranking update also included adjustments in the Competition and Region weights for Girls, aligning them with the updated Women’s weights in 2023.

Here is the FIBA World Ranking for Girls as of December 2023:

RankCountryCurrent Points+/- Rank Change
1USA830.20
2France726.20
3Canada721.1+2
4Spain717.90
5Australia699.2-2
6Slovenia685.6+4
7Hungary669.9-1
8Belgium655.90
9Japan629.2+4
10Finland608.9+6
11Croatia597.1+7
12Mali592.4+8
13Czechia578.1+2
14Germany576.30
15Italy573.8-4
16Serbia567.4+20
17Lithuania564.9-10
18Poland543.2+5
19China536.6-7
20Egypt529.9+1
21Latvia520.6-4
22Puerto Rico499.6+3
23Portugal497.3-1
24Türkiye496.20
25Korea479.7+1
26Greece470.4-7
27Colombia461.3+3
28Chinese Taipei451.8+1
29Brazil441.4+2
30Argentina438.5-3
31New Zealand430.7+1
32Israel419.2-4
33Angola407.0+5
34Mexico384.50
35Tunisia336.30
36Uganda327.8+5
37Sweden294.1-3
38Algeria275.2+4
39Madagascar253.9+7
40Chile252.8-4

by Abhishek Shukla

Pakistan penalised for slow over-rate in Perth Test

Pakistan have been fined 10 per cent of their match fee and penalised two ICC World Test Championship points for maintaining a slow over-rate against Australia in the first Test in Perth.

Javagal Srinath of the Emirates ICC Elite Panel of Match Referees imposed the sanction after Pakistan were ruled to be two overs short of the target after time allowances were taken into consideration.

In accordance with Article 2.22 of the ICC Code of Conduct for Players and Player Support Personnel, which relates to minimum over-rate offences, players are fined five per cent of their match fee for every over their side fails to bowl in the allotted time.

In addition, as per Article 16.11.2 of the ICC World Test Championship playing conditions, a side is penalised one point for each over short. Consequently, two World Test Championship points have been deducted from Pakistan’s points total.

Pakistan captain Shan Masood pled guilty to the offence and accepted the proposed sanction, so there was no need for a formal hearing.

On-field umpires Joel Wilson and Richard Illingworth, third umpire Michael Gough and fourth umpire Donovan Koch leveled the charge.

by Abhishek Shukla

Abu Dhabi wins bid to host 47th Chess Olympiad in 2028

Abu Dhabi has been selected as the host city for the 47th Chess Olympiad in 2028, triumphing over Genoa with a vote of 96 to 60 during the FIDE Council meeting on December 17thThe bid to secure the rights to host the FIDE Chess Olympiad 2028, FIDE Chess Olympiad for People with Disabilities 2028, and FIDE Congress 2028 was a joint effort by the Abu Dhabi Sports Council and the UAE Chess Federation. The proposed venue for these events is the Abu Dhabi National Exhibition Centre (ADNEC), the largest of its kind in the Middle East.Before the vote, FIDE conducted visits to both Abu Dhabi and Genoa to inspect the proposed venues and facilities. Official meetings were held with local and government authorities in both cities and with potential organizers.
In Abu Dhabi, meetings were conducted with prominent figures, including His Excellency Aref Al Awani, the General Secretary of the Abu Dhabi Sports Council, Sheikh Sultan bin Khalifa Al Nahyan, the President of the Asian Chess Federation, H.E. Tarim Matar Muhammad Tarim, the President of the UAE Chess Federation, and Hussein Abdullah Al-Khoury, the President of the Abu Dhabi Chess Club.FIDE’s inspection concluded that “Abu Dhabi presented a compelling bidding proposal, supported by the findings of the inspection visit on December 6th and 7th, 2023. The city boasts a robust transportation and accommodation infrastructure, a venue meeting top international standards, and experienced organizers capable of hosting world-class events not only in chess but in various other sports and spheres.”
This marks the second time that the UAE will host a chess Olympiad, following the event held in Dubai in 1986.Abu Dhabi and the UAE have recently demonstrated a strong commitment to organizing numerous chess events. In 2023 alone, the country hosted the inaugural Global Chess League, the 29th Abu Dhabi International Chess Festival, and the Asia Chess Amateur Championship. The city is set to host the Asian Youth Chess Championship next year.
by Abhishek Shukla

ONE Championship Announces 3 Fights for ONE 166: Qatar and Road to ONE Submission Grappling Tournament

Singapore — December 18, 2023 — ONE Championship (ONE), the world’s largest martial arts organization, today announced three bouts for ONE 166: Qatar, the promotion’s on-ground debut in the country on Friday, March 1 at the Lusail Sports Arena.

Tickets for this historic event are on sale now at the Virgin Megastore and Q-Tickets.

The first World Championship bout set for this historic card features a highly anticipated rematch for MMA gold as ONE Strawweight MMA World Champion Jarred “The Monkey God” Brooks of the U.S. defends his title against former World Champion Joshua “The Passion” Pacio of the Philippines.

ONE 166: Qatar will also showcase a clash of heavyweight contenders as red-hot Iranian star Amir Aliakbari — who is riding a three-fight, three knockout winning streak — takes on former ONE heavyweight king Arjan Bhullar of India. The event will also play host to a battle between former ONE Flyweight Submission Grappling World Title challengers as Yemeni-Saudi BJJ black belt Osamah Almarwai takes on former IBJJF World Champion Cleber Sousa of Brazil.

As a part of grassroots efforts to develop martial arts talent in the region, ONE will also host a Road to ONE submission grappling tournament during the ONE 166: Qatar fight week.
 
In addition to playing host to a pair of grappling super-fights, Qatar’s finest men’s and women’s grapplers will compete for US$100,000 contracts across multiple divisions as they attempt to realize their dream of competing on ONE Championship’s global stage.

Additional details on the ONE 166: Qatar fight card and the Road to ONE submission grappling tournament will be revealed in the coming weeks.

ONE 166: Qatar will be broadcast in the Middle East region on beIN Sports starting at 3:30pm AST. Details on how to watch the global broadcast, which can be viewed in over 190 countries worldwide, will be announced at a later date.

by Abhishek Shukla

Global Sport Climbing Stars Set for Olympic Qualifier Series

The International Federation of Sport Climbing (IFSC) has finalized the list of athletes set to compete in the Olympic Qualifier Series (OQS) for the Paris 2024 Olympics. This comes after the conclusion of the 2023 season, marked by the IFSC African Qualifier in Pretoria, South Africa. The season witnessed nearly half of the Olympic spots being awarded at the IFSC World Championships in Bern, Switzerland, and five Continental Qualifiers held across the globe.

The OQS is scheduled to take place in two key locations: Shanghai, China, from May 16 to 19, and Budapest, Hungary, from June 20 to 23, 2024. Athletes will compete for ten quota places in each of the Boulder & Lead events and five in each of the Speed events. The participating athletes were selected based on the IFSC World Rankings in Boulder & Lead and Speed, with additional considerations for athletes from the host nation of the Paris 2024 Olympics, OQS host nations, highest-placed athletes from each continent, and identified Universality nations.

The confirmed list of athletes for the Women’s Speed category includes notable competitors like Natalia Kalucka from Poland, Rajiah Sallsabillah from Indonesia, and China’s Di Niu. The Men’s Speed category will feature China’s Peng Wu, Indonesia’s Veddriq Leonardo, and Kiromal Katibin.

In the Women’s Boulder & Lead discipline, the United States’ Brooke Raboutou, Japan’s Miho Nonaka, and Korea’s Chaehyun Seo are among the top contenders. The Men’s Boulder & Lead field includes France’s Mejdi Schalck, Korea’s Dohyun Lee, and the legendary climber Adam Ondra from the Czech Republic.

Athletes already qualified for Paris 2024 and those from nations that have filled their maximum quota spots, such as Japan in Men’s Boulder & Lead and the USA in Men’s Boulder & Lead and Women’s Speed, are not eligible for the OQS.

The qualification process for the Olympic Games Paris 2024 will conclude with the allocation of host country and universality quota places after the OQS. Updates and news about the events will be available on the IFSC website and through their digital channels, including Facebook, Instagram, LinkedIn, and for the Chinese audience, Douyin and Weibo.

Sport climbing enthusiasts and fans around the globe eagerly await these events, which promise intense competition and spectacular performances from the world’s top climbers vying for a chance to compete in the Paris 2024 Olympic Games.

by Abhishek Shukla

ISL: Punjab FC break the jinx, get historic maiden ISL win

Punjab FC ended a 10-match-long wait for their maiden Indian Super League (ISL) win by defeating Chennaiyin FC at the Jawaharlal Nehru Stadium in New Delhi by 1-0 tonight.The ISL debutants had come touchingly close to crossing the finishing line numerous times in the past, but their moment of reckoning finally arrived on a chilly night in front of their home fans at the national capital. Staikos Vergetis has one man to thank for this feat, and that is his 26-year-old French attacking midfielder Madih Talal.
Talal was turbulent for the Marina Machans throughout the game, regularly breaking into their defence from different areas and taking shots at goalkeeper Debjit Majumder. However, Owen Coyle & Co. could have avoided this loss had Connor Shields converted a fairly straightforward opportunity presented to him via close range with a squared up pass by Jordan Murray in the 14th minute. The Scottish striker, goalless in Chennaiyin FC’s last six games, missed the target, and Talal made the visitors pay for it with a display of his creative genius throughout thereafter in the game.
At first, he cut into the box from the right flank and got behind the Chennaiyin FC backline to shoot straight at Majumder. Talal then tried to head the rebound into the net but Sarthak Golui made a crucial goal-line clearance. 16 minutes later, Punjab FC defender Suresh Meitei pushed ahead near the Chennaiyin FC box, displaying quick feet to keep the ball under control before making a pass to Talal at the centre of the 18-yard box. The Frenchman lobbed it slightly and pulled off an overhead strike from close distance, but the ball unfortunately deflected off the goal posts.
His efforts weren’t going to end up redundant though, as the Chennaiyin FC defence began keeping close tabs on the midfielder. That drew them away from other Punjab FC players, opening up yards of space for their frontline to make use of. Talal finally struck, and it was a move that oozed all class, in the 56th minute of the game.
He sprinted into the Chennaiyin FC box, again from the right flank, and pulled the plug on his shot with such fierce power that Majumder was beaten on the near post, bringing the entire stadium to its feet. Vergetis breathed a sigh of relief on the touchline, and his team, bolstered by the introduction of workhorses like Krishnananda Singh, Brandon Vanlalremdika, amongst others covered each blade of the grass until the final whistle blew to hold tight to their lead.
Key Performer of the MatchMadih Talal (Punjab FC)
Talal produced an exemplary performance, completing 76% of his 42 passes, tackling twice, creating three goal-scoring chances, earning seven fouls, making seven crosses, and intercepting once in addition to scoring the all-important winner that bagged Punjab FC their first-ever victory in the ISL.
What’s next for both teams?
Punjab FC will next host Odisha FC on December 26, whereas Chennaiyin FC will play Mumbai City FC on December 28.
Brief Scores
Punjab FC 1 (Madih Talal 56’) – 0 Chennaiyin FC

Stat Pack:

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by Abhishek Shukla

France Set to Host Youth Baseball5 European Championship 2024, Eyes on Olympic Future

Clermont-Ferrand, France — The French Baseball Softball Federation is gearing up to host the prestigious 2024 Youth Baseball5 European Championship at the Clermont Auvergne Métropole-Artenium sports complex. This event, critical for the development of the sport, will serve as a qualifier for the WBSC Youth Baseball5 World Cup in 2025.

The Federation’s President, Thierry Raphet, expressed his excitement and optimism for the sport’s growth and its potential inclusion in future Olympic Games. “I have great hopes for this discipline’s international and Olympic future,” Raphet remarked, extending his best wishes to all participating teams.

World No. 1 France is expected to be a strong contender, having secured a second-place finish at the inaugural WBSC Youth Baseball5 World Cup in Türkiye this past October, just behind Cuba. The hosts Türkiye managed to secure a commendable fourth place in the same event.

The Clermont Auvergne Métropole-Artenium sports complex, boasting three fields and a capacity of 500 seats, was selected by the WBSC Europe Executive Board to host this second edition of the European Championship. This decision reinforces the Federation’s commitment to fostering the growth of Baseball5 in Europe.

The Championship’s significance is further heightened as it will determine the two teams that will advance to the second Youth Baseball5 World Cup in 2025, which is a pivotal stepping stone towards the Dakar 2026 Youth Olympics.

WBSC President Riccardo Fraccari, speaking at the inaugural Youth Baseball5 World Cup, highlighted the global appeal of Baseball5, particularly in Africa, and its potential impact on both fans and athletes. He anticipates the next World Cup in 2025 to be a significant event, especially as it serves as a qualifier for the Youth Olympic Games.

France’s recent performance at the Baseball5 European Championship, where they finished as runners-up to Lithuania, has already secured them a spot in the WBSC Baseball5 World Cup, scheduled to be held in Hong Kong, China, next year.

As France prepares to welcome European nations to this highly anticipated event, the Federation’s vision of elevating Baseball5 to the Olympic stage continues to gain momentum, backed by the sport’s growing popularity and the success of its athletes on the world stage.

by Abhishek Shukla

USA Softball Announces Preliminary Roster for 2024 Men’s National Team Ahead of WBSC World Cup

Oklahoma City, USA — In a significant development for USA Softball, the national governing body has unveiled a list of 35 athletes selected for consideration for the 2024 Men’s National Team. This announcement comes as the team gears up for the WBSC Men’s Softball World Cup Group Stage event, scheduled to take place in Oklahoma City from September 17 to 21, 2024.

Head Coach Ron Hackett expressed enthusiasm about the team’s prospects, emphasizing the importance of building on their recent achievements. “We are excited at the blend of experience and youth we have in our program. This group of men embodies that,” Hackett said. He stressed the goal of becoming world champions in 2025, highlighting the strong team dynamics that will drive them towards this objective.

The preliminary roster for the 2024 season, available for public viewing, is particularly notable for including all 16 athletes from the 2022 USA team. This team made history by clinching the bronze medal at the WBSC Men’s Softball World Cup 2022, marking USA’s first medal in the competition in over two decades.

Adding to the team’s depth are four members of the U-18 National Team, who recently finished fourth in the World Cup in Hermosillo. Standout players Logan Boom, Brennan DuCharme, Braden DuCharme, and Cody Gibbons — the latter two earning spots on the All-World Team — are among the new faces.

The upcoming WBSC Men’s Softball World Cup marks a departure from tradition, being the first to adopt a two-stage format with Group Stage and Finals in consecutive years. Prince Albert, Canada, will host one group in July 2024, while Oklahoma City will welcome a second group in September. The location for the third group remains unannounced, with the Finals set for July 2025 in Prince Albert.

As the host of a Group Stage event, the USA team, currently ranked No. 5 globally, has been automatically placed in its respective group. This presents a unique opportunity for the team to showcase its talents on home soil and to strive for the ultimate goal set by Coach Hackett: clinching the world champion title in 2025.

by Abhishek Shukla

PKL 10: Puneri Paltan win low-scoring thriller against Dabang Delhi K.C. to climb to the top of the table

PUNE, 18th December, 2023: Puneri Paltan’s young team battled against a hardened Dabang Delhi K.C. defence to record a 30-23 victory at the Shree Shiv Chhatrapati Sports Complex on Monday. In a low-scoring game, where the two defences logged a combined 17 points, Puneri Paltan’s Aslam Inamdar (8 points) and Delhi’s Ashu Malik (9 points) were the standout raiders. 

Puneri Paltan stormed out of the blocks, into an early lead and with Delhi missing their talisman Naveen Kumar, the going looked grim. With their numbers swiftly dwindling, it came down to a brilliant raid and then a SUPER TACKLE by Yogesh to hold the barrage. Eventually, though Dabang Delhi produced an ALL OUT to take a 13-8 lead. 

The two teams were evenly matched defensively, but Naveen’s absence showed in the lack of raid points Dabang Delhi were able to accumulate. For Paltan, Aslam Inamdar and Mohit Goyat logged 6 points each as they went into the break leading 18-12.

Recognising their weakness on the raid, Delhi tightened up in defence early in the second half, steadily gaining back points with stout defending that forced the Paltan to take more risks or go empty-handed. 

The game turned into a defensive tactical masterclass with raid points coming at a premium — a mere 11 raid points came through the second period — as Paltan matched Delhi’s defensive grit toe to toe. Despite going down to three players at a time, Pankaj Mohite’s SUPER TACKLE pulled them out of trouble as they took a gritty, and deserved victory. 

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

Game 1 – Haryana Steelers vs Gujarat Giants – 8 pm 

by Abhishek Shukla

PKL 10: Surender, Nitin impress as Bengal Warriors and U.P. Yoddhas play out an enthralling tie

PUNE, 18th December, 2023: Bengal Warriors and U.P. Yoddhas played out an exciting 37-37 tie in the Pro Kabaddi League Season 10 game at the Shree Shiv Chhatrapati Sports Complex on Monday. Interestingly, this was the second tied game of the season and the Warriors were a part of both matches.

As the scoreline suggested, there was hardly anything to separate the two sides all through the game. Surender Gill got the U.P. Yoddhas going with a SUPER RAID, while Bengal Warriors struck back through Maninder Singh and Nitin Kumar. Pardeep Narwal, the Yoddhas skipper, had to wait as long as 12 minutes to get his first point as the U.P. Yoddhas began to sneak ahead.

The Yoddhas were reduced to four men a couple of times, but the Warriors raiders failed to capitalize. A couple of sharp tackles from Nitesh on Maninder and bonus points from Vijay Malik powered the Yoddhas to a four-point lead at 18-14 at the end of the first half. It was a tightly contested opening half that saw neither side claim an ALL OUT.

The game truly came alive in the second half when Gurdeep produced an ankle hold to stop Maninder and claim a SUPER TACKLE. The Yoddhas led 21-17 at this point, but that lead was short-lived as Shrikant Jadhav got a much-needed ALL OUT for the Warriors. Going up against a defence of two, Shrikant darted across the mat before forcing Hitesh into the lobby and then tagging Harendra Kumar to give his side a slender lead at 24-23. 

However, Surender gave the Warriors little time to celebrate as he struck back with a SUPER RAID that put his side ahead and brought up his Super 10. The raider grew from strength to strength thereon and the Yoddhas rode on his raiding prowess to reduce the Warriors down to one man before Nitin was flattened on the mat. With five minutes to go, the Yoddhas led 35-30.

As was the theme of the game, the Warriors fought their way back through some resolute defending and key raid points from Maninder. Nitin, the Warriors’ best player on the evening, scalped two crucial points to make it 36-36, but both sides picked up a point each in the final minute to share the spoils.

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

Game 1 – Haryana Steelers vs Gujarat Giants – 8 pm 

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

85th National TT: PSPB, Delhi men and RBI, TN women enter team finals

Panchkula, December 18: The men’s teams of Petroleum Sports Promotion Board and Delhi entered the final of UTT Senior Nationals and Inter-State Table Tennis Championships at the Tau Devi Lal Indoor Stadium here today.

PSPB defeated AAI 2-1 and Delhi routed Maharashtra 3-0 to earn the final berths. The women’s final will be between RBI and Tamil Nadu like in the previous edition. RBI beat Maharashtra 3-1 and Tamil Nadu accounted for the Railways 3-0.

Manav Thakkar is going through a rough patch of late. Having lost the pre-quarterfinals to Payas Jain in the ranking tournament that preceded the Nationals, Manav was in trouble against Jeet Chandra in the opening tie of the team semifinals. After taking a 2-1 lead to Jeet, Manav conceded two games on the trot. But Harmeet came to their rescue again, winning his singles after Sanil Shetty put PSPB 2-1 up.

Unlike the PSPB, Delhi was more clinical on their way to the final, beating Maharashtra 3-0. After Sudhanshu Grover and Payas Jain put Delhi 2-0 up, Yashansh Malik completed the task with a 3-1 win over Chinmaya Somaiya. The Maharashtra left-handed won the first game but failed to press home the advantage. Delhi men last entered the final at the Hyderabad Nationals in 2020.

UP men did well to take their team’s stature a notch above despite not making the semifinal grade. Their 2-3 loss to top-seeded PSPB was not a surprise. However, how they resisted the title favourites, taking two ties of them, mattered the most. Divyansh Srivastava beat an off-form Anthony Amalraj in straight games in the third rubber, but Sarth Mishra’s 3-1 win over the top-ranked Indian was the icing on the cake. Manav was erratic, and Sarth cashed in on the situation to the chagrin of PSPB. But an in-form Harmeet averted any possible crisis to beat Abhishek Yadav as the UP left-hander failed to impress in both ties.

The Delhi men, too, had a difficult time against West Bengal in their quarterfinals. Thanks to their hero No. 1, Sudhanshu Grover, Delhi survived to advance further with a 3-2 win. Sudhanshu won the first and last rubber after Yashansh Malik won the crucial third rubber against Aniket Sen Choudhury. Earlier, Payas Jain did not come off the blocks well in his two singles, adding to the pressure on Sudhanshu. But the latter acquitted his job with responsibility.

RBI was clinical despite losing the first tie. Sreeja Akula and Ayhika Mukherjee put their team in the final. With Diya Chitale rested for the match, Harshavardhini got the chance, but the girl from Tamil Nadu failed to make the most of it and went down to Jennifer Verghese. However, it did not change the fortune of Maharashtra, as RBI won 3-1.

Yashini Sivashankar’s roaring form continued in the semifinals and she put Tamil Nadu 1-0 up with an excellent 3-2 win over Sutirtha Mukherjee, expected to lead the Railways side into the final. Capitalising on the lead, Selenadeepthi Selvakumar thumped Moumita Dutta 3-0 and, finally, Kavyashree Baskar defeated Poymantee Baskar 3-0 and entered the final for the second consecutive time. 

In the women’s team quarterfinals, the lone aberration was when Ayhika Mukherjee lost to Prapti Sen in the opening tie. But that did not change the fortune of the RBI, as Sreeja and Diya made amends for the loss to beat West Bengal 3-1. The Railways blanked out Delhi 3-0, and Tamil Nadu won 3-1 against Gujarat.

However, the Maharashtra women struggled past Karnataka 3-2. Yashaswini Ghorpade stood against Maharashtra, winning her singles against Sayali Wani and Pritha Vartikar. But, beyond delaying the inevitable, she could not do much as Kushi Viswanath lost to Pritha 3-0, and Jennifer Verghese beat Deshna Vanshika 3-1.  

Results (TEAM):

Men: Semifinals: PSPB bt AAI 3-1 (Manav Thakkar lost to Jeet Chandra 6-11, 11-8, 11-5, 7-11, 13-15; Harmeet Desai bt SFR Snehit 11-8, 11-3, 5-11, 7-11, 11-5; Sanil Shetty bt Deepit R. Patil 13-11, 11-7, 10-12, 11-9; Harmeet bt Jeet 11-7, 11-3, 15-17, 11-7); Delhi bt Maharashtra 3-0 (Sudhanshu Grover bt Albuquerque.Raegan 11-4, 11-4, 11-7; Payas Jain bt Siddesh Pande 10-12, 11-6, 12-10, 15-13; Yashansh Malik bt Chinmaya Somaiya 8-11, 12-10, 11-9, 11-9).

Quarterfinals: PSPB bt UP 3-2 (Manav Thakkar bt Abhishek Yadav 11-4, 12-14, 11-8, 11-6; Harmeet Desai bt Sarth Mishra 11-9, 11-5, 11-4; Anthony Amalraj lost to Divyansh Srivastava 9-11, 8-11, 10-12; Manav lost to Sarth 7-11, 11-3, 9-11, 11-13; Harmeet bt Abhishek 11-9, 11-7, 12-10); AAI bt Tamil Nadu 3-0 (SFR Snehit bt P.B. Abhinand 11-6, 8-11, 12-10, 11-3; Jeet Chandra bt Preyesh Raj 12-10, 5-11, 8-11, 11-9, 11-5; K.J. Akash bt M. Balamurugan 13-11, 11-4, 11-7); Delhi bt West Bengal 3-2 (Sudhanshu Grover bt Soruav Saha 12-10, 8-11, 11-5, 9-11, 11-9; Payas Jain lost to Ankur Bhattacharjee 10-12, 8-11, 11-8, 8-11; Yashansh Malik bt Aniket Sen Choudhury 13-11, 6-11, 14-12, 11-7; Payas lost to Sourav 11-8, 7-11, 9-11, 9-11; Sudhanshu bt Ankur 11-5, 11-8, 11-3); Maharashtra bt Telangana 3-1 (Raegan bt Vansh Singhal 9-11, 9-11, 11-8, 11-6, 11-9; Jash Modi lost to Mohammed Ali 6-11, 6-11, 6-11; Chinmaya Somaiya bt Ali Mohammed 12-10, 11-3, 12-10; Raegan bt Mohammed Ali 11-8, 5-11, 11-8, 5-11, 12-10).

Women: Semifinals: RBI bt Maharashtra 3-1 (Sreeja Akula bt Sayali Wani 11-8, 11-8, 8-11, 11-6; Ayhika Mukherjee bt Pritha Vartikar 11-9, 11-8, 11-4; R. Harshavardhini lost to Jennifer Verghese 5-11, 11-4, 7-11, 11-8, 10-12; Ayhika bt Sayali 15-13, 4-11, 5-11, 11-7, 11-5); Tamil Nadu bt RSPB 3-0 (Yashini Sivashankar bt Sutirtha Mukherjee 11-6, 7-11, 4-11, 11-5, 11-9; Selenadeepthi Selvakumar bt Moumita Dutta 11-3-, 11-9, 11-3; Kavyashree Baskar bt Poymantee Baisya 5-11, 11-9, 4-11, 11-4, 11-9).

Quarterfinals: RBI bt Bengal 3-1 (Ayhika Mukherjee lost to Prapti Sen 11-5, 9-11, 9-11, 11-2, 7-11; Sreeja Akula bt Kaushani Nath 11-4, 11-9, 11-9; Diya Chitale bt Syndrela Das 11-7, 9-11, 11-6, 11-8; Sreeja bt Prapti 11-8, 11-7, 11-9); Maharashtra bt Karnataka 3-2 (Sayali Wani lost to Yashawini Ghorpade 7-11, 7-11, 11-13; Pritha Vartikar bt Kushi Viswanath 12-10, 11-6, 11-4; Jennifer Varghese bt Deshna Vanshika 7-11, 11-2, 11-8, 13-11; Pritha lost to Yashaswini 11-8, 11-5, 9-11, 9-11, 3-11; Sayali bt Kushi 11-6, 12-10, 6-11, 11-4); RSPB bt Delhi 3-0 (Sutirtha Mukherjee bt Diya Bramhachary 11-7, 11-8, 12-10; Poymantee Baisya bt Vanshika Bhargava 13-11, 9-11, 11-3, 8-11, 11-9; Moumita Dutta bt Lakshita Narang 11-7, 8-11, 5-11, 13-11, 11-8); Tamil Nadu bt Gujarat 3-1 (Selena Deepti Selvakumar bt Radhapriya Goel 14-12, 11-7, 11-13, 11-8; Yashini Sivashankar lost to Frenaz Chipia 9-11, 11-5, 11-1, 6-11, 7-11; Kavyasree Baskar bt Oishiki Joardar 5-11, 11-8, 12-10, 12-10; Yashini bt Radhapriya 11-7, 6-11, 11-9, 11-8).