by Abhishek Shukla

Medellin to Host 2027 World Archery Championships, a Historic First for South America

Medellin, Colombia, has been selected as the host city for the 2027 World Archery Championships, marking the first time this premier international archery event will be held in South America. This decision, announced during World Archery’s executive board meeting in Antalya, Turkey, emphasizes archery’s status as a truly global sport and acknowledges South America’s growing presence in the sport.

Medellin was chosen over bids from Nyborg, Denmark, and Wroclaw, Poland, while a bid from Antalya was withdrawn prior to the decision. Medellin’s bid centered on the Rionegro region, known for its proximity to the airport and plans for a large combination venue with enhanced arena scheduling.

Medellin’s involvement in international archery dates back to 2013, when it first hosted a stage of the Hyundai Archery World Cup. Since then, it has been a recurring location in the World Cup circuit and is set to host the Pan American Championships in 2024. The 2027 championships in Medellin will see Colombia join the United States and Mexico as the only countries in the Americas to have hosted the event.

In addition to selecting championship hosts, the World Archery executive board formed a working group to study future tournament formats, sustainability, and financial viability, aligning with the organization’s strategic plan. The board also reaffirmed its commitment to keeping archery independent from politics, following discussions at the recent Olympic Summit.

The meeting included other significant decisions, such as issuing warnings to member associations in Chad, Guinea, and Uzbekistan, prohibiting their participation in international competitions until they regain good standing. Nigeria may face a similar restriction if its situation does not improve by April 1, 2024. Additionally, the Kuwait federation was removed from the list of members at risk of expulsion in 2024, having successfully fulfilled an action plan approved earlier.

The announcement of Medellin as the 2027 World Archery Championships host is a milestone in archery’s expansion and reflects the sport’s growing global reach. The city’s rich history with the sport and its commitment to developing a suitable venue for the championships were key factors in its selection. This event is set to act as a primary qualifier for the LA28 Olympics, further highlighting its significance in the world of archery.

by Abhishek Shukla

Refugee team to make historic debut at 45th Chess Olympiad in Budapest

In a groundbreaking decision aimed at promoting inclusivity and support for displaced persons, a team representing refugees will take part in the 45th Chess Olympiad set to take place in Budapest, Hungary, in 2024 The move follows a request made by the United Nations High Commissioner for Refugees (UNHCR) to the FIDE Council, which has now been officially approved. The team of refugees will be carefully selected through a supervised process and endorsed by the UNHCR to compete in both the Open section and the Women’s section of the most prestigious team chess tournament. The selection process will be coordinated with the UNHCR and finalized on or before April 1 2024.

FIDE President Arkady Dvorkovich noted the significance of this decision, stating, “In our complex global landscape where numerous people are left displaced and without homes, the inclusion of a refugee team in the Chess Olympiad is a testament to our commitment to support those in need. Chess has the power to offer solace and empowerment to individuals facing adversity, and this initiative shows our dedication to using chess as a tool for positive change.”

This landmark decision by FIDE comes after its inaugural participation in the Global Refugee Forum 2023, held from December 13-15 at Palexpo in Geneva, Switzerland. Anastasia Sorokina, Chairperson of the FIDE Commission for Women’s Chess, and André Vögtlin, Chairman of FIDE Social Commission, represented FIDE at the event. Sorokina, who founded the Girls Chess Club in the Kakuma refugee camp, shared her experiences at the preliminary event focused on education, discussing the theme of “Protection, Gender, Sport”. She emphasized the transformative role of chess in aiding refugees to navigate life challenges and regain stability.

For years, FIDE has supported refugees, primarily through the Chess for Protection project, providing assistance to displaced communities. Implemented in partnership with various organizations, including the UNHCR, the UN Refugee Agency, the Lutheran World Federation (LWF), the Kenya Chess Federation, and the Kakuma Chess Club, the Chess for Protection project has been operating since August 2021. This initiative consolidates and expands chess-related activities in the Kakuma Refugee Camp in Kenya, now entering its third year of operation.

The inclusion of a refugee team at the Chess Olympiad signifies a milestone in promoting inclusivity and leveraging chess as a tool for empowerment and support. FIDE remains committed to advancing such initiatives that harness the potential of chess to make a meaningful impact on the lives of the displaced worldwide.

by Abhishek Shukla

Chengdu to Host an Expanded World Games 2025 with Record Number of Gold Medals

The International World Games Association (IWGA) has finalized plans for The World Games 2025, set to take place in Chengdu, China from August 7th to 17th. This edition of the multi-sport event, held every four years, will see an unprecedented 262 gold medals awarded across 35 sports and 62 disciplines.

This marks a significant increase from the 2022 Games in Birmingham, USA, which featured 223 medal events. The expansion aligns with the IWGA’s “Growth Beyond Excellence” strategy, introducing more diverse sports including four para disciplines, a notable increase from just one in 2022.

The event is expected to draw around 5000 athletes from over 100 countries. The IWGA’s decision-making process involved collaboration with host city Chengdu and the international federations, ensuring a diverse and inclusive sports program. New additions to the medal events include Heyball, a popular variant of Pool Billiards in China, and dragon boat races in various team sizes and distances.

Sebastian Garvens, Sports Director of the IWGA, emphasized the significance of these discussions and adjustments, highlighting the association’s commitment to excellence, sustainability, and inclusiveness. The IWGA aims to finalize and present a provisional competition schedule at their next Annual General Meeting on May 1st, 2024.

The World Games is a prestigious event organized with the support of the International Olympic Committee. The previous edition in 2022 in Birmingham, Alabama, saw participation from 3,600 athletes in 34 sports representing 100 countries. The upcoming 12th edition in Chengdu represents a new chapter in the World Games history, promising to be a spectacular showcase of sportsmanship and cultural exchange.

by Abhishek Shukla

PKL 10: Puneri Paltan decimate table toppers Bengal Warriors in record-breaking PKL clash for home team

PUNE, 16th December, 2023: The Puneri Paltan bounced back ecstatically when they handed the Bengal Warriors a massive 49-19  loss — their first in PKL 10 — at the Shree Shiv Chhatrapati Sports Complex in Pune on Saturday. The Paltan army, who went down to the Haryana Steelers on Friday night, never let the opponent raiders settle and their 24 tackle points is now a new record for a team in a single PKL match. 

The home side did not let the occasion of facing the table toppers deter them from a perfect start. Their excellent defending got Maninder Singh in his first raid before Pankaj Mohite’s successful two-point raid gave the Paltan an early lead. However, the mighty Maninder can hardly be kept out of the action. The Warriors captain, continuing his form from their record-breaking win over Patna Pirates, equalled the score with a SUPER RAID, proving why he is one of the best raiders in the game.

Despite this, the Paltan army headed into the strategic time-out with a slender 7-6 advantage and built on it with an excellent SUPER TACKLE to grab three points off Maninder once again.

The Warriors buckled after their slow start and upped the ante in the final minutes of the first half. A second SUPER RAID in the game for Maninder eliminated Abinesh, Mohammadreza Chiyaneh and Pankaj Mohite, but Mohit Goyat and Aslam Inamdar’s ‘Never-Give-Up’ attitude got them two consecutive SUPER TACKLES.
.
Such was their defensive prowess in front of a boisterous home crowd that the Pune team managed 12 tackle points and just 6 raid points at the end of the first half, adding pressure on the Warriors with the score reading 20-12.

The side from Kolkata continued to be pegged back and were ALL OUT early in the second half as the Paltan kept up their phenomenal form. Such was the domination of the Puneri men on the night that Maninder Singh, who got 15 points in the last game, was silenced for much of the match.

For every point that the Warriors managed to score, the Paltan had the perfect answer. Left stunned by the all-round ability and the mat presence of the Puneri Paltan, the Warriors fell to a second ALL OUT late in the game, effectively ending any chances of a win for the PKL Season 7 winners.

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

Game 1 – Patna Pirates vs Jaipur Pink Panthers – 8 pm 

Game 2 – U Mumba vs Tamil Thalaivas – 9 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

Bobsleigh: World Champion Lochner with second win of the season and 2-man bob track record

Innsbruck (RWH) 2-man bobsleigh World Champions Johannes Lochner/Georg Fleischhauer (GER) celebrated their second win of the season at the third stop of the BMW IBSF World Cup in winter 2023/2024.

Lochner/Fleischhauer set a new best time in the first heat at the Olympia Eiskanal Innsbruck (AUT): With a track record (50.88 seconds), they were the first duo in the 2-man bobsleigh to stay under 51 seconds.
Second place in Innsbruck went to Olympic Champion Francesco Friedrich (GER. 0.08 seconds back).
In third place, Junior World Champion Adam Ammour (GER, 0.74 seconds back) celebrated his first 2-man bobsleigh podium finish in the BMW IBSF World Cup with brother Issam Ammour as push athlete.


Brad Hall from Great Britain celebrated his comeback in the BMW IBSF World Cup in Innsbruck. Last winter’s overall World Cup bronze medallist had to undergo back surgery before the start of the season. Hall finished eleventh with push athlete Taylor Lawrence.


Local hero Jakob Mandlbauer made his debut in the BMW IBSF World Cup on his home track. The U23 World Championship bronze medalist finished 19th with push athlete Daiyehan Nichols-Bardi.


Johannes Lochner (GER, 660 points) continues to lead the 2023/2024 BMW IBSF World Cup ahead of Francesco Friedrich (GER, 620) and Switzerland’s Michael Vogt (609), who finished fifth in Innsbruck.

by Abhishek Shukla

Indian Colts lose Bronze to Spain in FIH Junior Men’s Hockey World Cup

Kuala Lumpur, 16th December 2023: Indian Junior Men’s Hockey Team went down 1-3 in a hard-fought Bronze medal match to Spain here on Saturday at the FIH Hockey Junior Men’s World Cup Malaysia 2023. Sunil Jojo (28’) scored the lone goal for India while Nicolas Alvarez (25’, 51’) and Pau Petchame (40’) scored for the winning side.   

The Bronze medal match lived up to its billing, with both sides putting up a fine show. India, which faced Spain in their Pool stage match and lost 1-4, made a fine start pushing for circle penetrations early in the game. They made early inroads, winning a PC in the 7th minute but could not convert. While the next few minutes continued to witness an inspired attack from Indian forward line, nothing could come off it. 

With the second quarter starting at a 0-0 stalemate, Alvarez opened the scoreline for Spain with a brilliant tomahawk from the corner of the goal. Though India goalie Mohit got his pads on it, the effort wasn’t enough to stop the goal. Only three minutes later, India gave a resounding reply when Sunil Jojo scored off a rebound from a PC execution in the 28th minute.  

The equaliser instilled fresh confidence in the Indian side, which made some brave forays into Spanish D. But Spain’s goalie Capellades was on target to make some fine saves. The half-time break, seemed to have fostered Spain’s aspirations for a medal as they came back with fresh ammunition to test the Indian defence.   

A good structure in the forward line ensured they found the break through with Petchame scoring the second goal for his team, thus taking a narrow lead of 2-1 in the 40th minute. The final 15 minutes was incredibly tense for Indian fans who had turned up in large numbers. The team began the fourth quarter with an effort to convert a circle penetration. But they could not breach the Spanish defence.   

In the meantime, Cabre Verdiell set up a stupendous goal, dribbling in from the left flank with Alvarez deflecting the ball into an empty goal as Mohith had moved to the other side. This 51st minute goal put India behind by 1-3 but hopes of a comeback remained as India won a PC in the 54th minute. However, Araijeet Hundal’s effort was cleared by Spanish defenders.   

India put up a brave fight towards the dying moments, but Spain remained in lead – handing India yet another heart-break loss in the medal match. In the previous edition in 2021 too, India had lost in the bronze medal match. 

by Abhishek Shukla

ISL: Bengaluru FC return to winning ways with 1-0 win in cagey affair against Jamshedpur FC

Bengaluru FC started life under new head coach Gerard Zaragoza on a positive note by defeating Jamshedpur FC by 1-0 at the Sree Kanteerava Stadium to kick off the Saturday double header of the tenth matchweek of the Indian Super League (ISL) 2023-24.

It was a cagey affair from the beginning, with Jamshedpur FC goalkeeper TP Rehenesh starring with some important stops to keep the scoreline level. Rehenesh has been a notch above the other players from the Red Miners this season as the team’s struggles compound with one unfortunate result after another.

For Bengaluru FC, it was down to their experienced outfield duo of Sunil Chhetri and Javi Hernandez to get them out of the rut that they found themselves in. Chhetri stepped up to take a free kick in the 37th minute from nearly 30 yards out, and he shot it admirably well only for a full-stretched Rehenesh to dive and palm it away from goal.

Hernandez, on the other hand, floated across the frontline discovering gaps in the Jamshedpur FC backline that they could pounce upon. On one such opportunity, a minute before the half-time break, he steered the ball on the right flank and played a lateral pass to Slavko Damjanović who was a few yards away from Rehenesh.

A heavy touch from Damjanović meant that the ball met the hand of Jamshedpur FC defender Elsinho, leading to a spot-kick for the home side.

Interestingly, it was Hernandez and not Sunil Chhetri who stepped up to assume duties from 12 yards away. Bengaluru FC had won only one game in the season before this, which was on October 4 against East Bengal FC. Hernandez was the difference between the two sides back then too, pulling off a fantastic overhead kick to hand them a 71st winner. Likewise, he hammered the ball into the bottom right corner to help the Blues get a foot ahead in the game.

Jamshedpur FC were desperate in their quest for a response, and they naturally looked up to their midfielder Jeremy Monzorro to produce something noteworthy in the final third. Monzorro was averaging 10.4 entries in the penalty box per game prior to this match in the current season, suggesting that he is someone who constantly finds a way past the opposition’s backline. Tonight, he tried to unleash another trick out of his armoury, attempting to lob the ball over Gurpreet Singh Sandhu, only for it to deflect off hitting the outside of the upper net in the 65th minute.

Zaragoza replaced Chhetri and Hernandez with the fresh legs of Monirul Molla and Harsh Patre in the second half, and the young duo worked their socks off to ensure that the lead didn’t desert them until the end of the match.

Key Performer of the Match

Javi Hernandez (Bengaluru FC)

Hernandez created a goal-scoring opportunity, made a clearance, in addition to maintaining a 76% passing accuracy and scoring his second goal of the season to hand the Blues their second win of the campaign.

What’s next for both teams?

Bengaluru FC will next host NorthEast United FC on December 24, whereas Jamshedpur FC will travel to face Hyderabad FC on December 21.

Brief Scores

Bengaluru FC 1 (Javi Hernandez 44’) – 0 Jamshedpur FC

Stat Pack:

image.png
by Abhishek Shukla

Special Olympics and FIVB Foster Inclusivity & Unity at the 2023 Men’s Volleyball Club World Championships in India

Bengaluru, 16 December 2023: In a groundbreaking collaboration, Special Olympics joined forces with the International Volleyball Federation (FIVB) during the Men’s Volleyball Club World Championships 2023 held in Bengaluru, India. With an aim of promoting inclusion and unity through sports, ten exceptional Special Olympics Bharat athletes joined the formidable team from Brazil, Itambé Minas and the World Club Champions – Sir Safety Perugia from Italy, to engage in a symbolic jersey exchange ceremony. The gesture of friendship underscored the power of sports in fostering understanding and breaking down barriers.

In addition, the Special Olympics Bharat athletes participated in a training session alongside some players ahead of the much-awaited finals between the two heavyweights of Men’s Volleyball Club World Championships, the Italian Sir Safety Perugia and the Brazilian Itambe Minas. This meeting not only showcased the exceptional skills of people with intellectual disabilities (PWIDs), but also served as a powerful testament to the transformative potential of inclusion through sports.

Notably, the event served as a compelling follow-up to the Memorandum of Understanding (MOU) signed between both organizations during the Special Olympics World Games Berlin 2023 in June. Special Olympics Bharat also participated at these Games, where they secured an impressive tally of 200 medals (77 Gold, 71 Silver & 52 Bronze)

Dr Ary S. Graça F°, FIVB President: “The FIVB is delighted to continue its partnership with Special Olympics, once again showcasing the unifying power of volleyball. The commemorative jersey exchange ceremony, held in collaboration with Special Olympics Bharat during the Volleyball Men’s Club World Championship in India, demonstrated our shared values of inclusivity, empowerment and promoting a healthy lifestyle, and we look forward to expanding this collaboration over the coming years.

Dr. Mallika Nadda, President, Special Olympics Bharat: “At Special Olympics Bharat, we believe in the transformative power of sports to create a more inclusive world. The Men’s Volleyball Club World Championships is a testament to our commitment to breaking down barriers and fostering a society where every individual, regardless of ability, feels valued and included. I would personally like to thank FIVB and the Indian Organising Committee for rooting for the cause of Special Olympics here in India.”

Preethy Janarthanan, Sports & Competition team, Special Olympics Asia Pacific: “In Special Olympics, a key area of our work focuses on providing sports training to children and adults with intellectual disabilities. We work to give them continued opportunities to develop physical fitness, demonstrate courage, experience joy and participate in the sharing of skills and friendship within the community. We are delighted to see our athletes fulfilling their passion, showcasing their talent and learning from some of the world’s top volleyball players at the Men’s Volleyball Club World Championships 2023 in Bengaluru. These sessions are just one of the multiple ways in which Special Olympics reinforces sports and fitness as a way of life for our athletes, which helps to grow their confidence and esteem.”

This collaborative effort between Special Olympics Bharat and FIVB marks a significant step towards building a more inclusive future; one where the spirit of sports transcends boundaries and embraces the richness of diversity.

by Abhishek Shukla

IWL: Karishma’s hat-trick sends East Bengal packing against Kickstart FC

BENGALURU: Karishma Shirvoikar scored the first hat-trick of the IWL 2023-24 season to guide Kickstart FC to a cushy 3-1 win over East Bengal at the Bangalore Football Stadium on Saturday, December 16, 2023. Last year’s finalists, Kickstart FC have now moved to the top of the table after two rounds with six points in their kitty.

Kickstart’s campaign on the home turf today wasn’t perhaps as comfortable as the scoreline looked in the end. The visitors did play their part, often commendably, and made the necessary noise in the rival area goalmouth. But while most of it proved to be much ado about nothing, Kickstart were more focussed and did their job well when it came to doing the right things.

But the player who made all the difference was Karishma, with her constant probes through the right from the very beginning. With a vulnerable defence, East Bengal failed to stop the National Team footballer and paid heavily for it. Had she been a little more accurate, Karishma could have finished the day with a couple of more goals in her pocket. But what she did was enough to fetch her team three points.

Karishma missed at least two chances before she could breach the East Bengal defence five minutes before the half time. Two defenders were close on Karishma, but she did well to shield the ball and send it to the far corner.

East Bengal, who won their first match against Sports Odisha, made some inroads in the second half though none of them proved fruitful. Finally, it was Karishma again who frustrated the red and golden brigade with the second goal in the 69th minute. She did well to get past two defenders, but her shot didn’t carry the expected punch. Yet it found the net as East Bengal goalkeeper Keisham Melody Chanu wasn’t as quick to anticipate the shot as she was expected to be.

East Bengal posed some threat for a brief period when the match entered the last five-minute phase. Junior international Sulanjana Raul, who came on as a substitute and brought some life into the East Bengal attacks, displayed her fine skills when she guided a long ball into the net with a deft angular shot. But then, if East Bengal were hoping to make a grand comeback, it wasn’t on the cards. Karishma slammed in another goal on the run to complete her hat-trick and put the issue beyond the Kolkata team’s reach.

by Abhishek Shukla

I-League:Aizawl FC, Gokulam Kerala FC slug it out for a draw on the hills

AIZAWL: It was a fierce battle and, eventually, Aizawl FC and Gokulam Kerala FC had to settle for a 1-1 draw in a crucial I-League encounter at the Rajiv Gandhi Stadium in Aizawl on Saturday, December 16, 2023.

Lalbiakdika helped Aizawl take the lead in the 31st minute before Gokulam Kerala captain Alejandro Sanchez Lopez scored the equaliser in the added minutes of the first half. The strike helped Lopez become currently the sole top-scorer of the tournament with 10 goals.

Heading into the match, the stakes were high. A win for either side would have proved critical in their pursuit of the I-League title. However, neither team could gain the upper hand. The draw meant Aizawl are in fourth place in the I-League table with 18 points from 10 matches, including five wins, three draws and two losses. The Malabarians occupy the sixth spot with 14 points from 10 matches. They have won three games, drawn five and lost two.

Aizawl seized the lead in the 31st minute. The move was initiated by Lalthankhuma, who found K Lalrinfela on the right wing with a through pass. Lalrinfela executed a deceptive body feint to outmaneuver a Gokulam Kerala defender and sent a well-directed low cross into the box. Lalbiakdika timed his run perfectly, meeting the ball in the penalty area and scoring with a well-crafted shot.

Later, in the 43rd minute, Aizawl had another chance to increase their lead. Lalthanmawia took a shot, but once again, it was Paul who came to Gokulam’s rescue with a diving save.

Gokulam Kerala responded with the equaliser in the added minutes of the first half. They patiently built up their attack, stringing together several passes. The moment of brilliance came from Muhammed Saheef, who delivered a beautifully curled cross from the left wing. Alejandro Sanchez Lopez showcased his keen sense of positioning by finding a gap between Aizawl’s defenders, Ivan Maric and Laldanmawia, and leapt to head the ball into the net.

After the break, Aizawl started in the same attacking vein but couldn’t threaten much. A significant factor in Gokulam Kerala’s performance was the effective neutralization of Aizawl’s in-form striker, Lalrinzuala. Despite being the league’s second-highest scorer with nine goals, Lalrinzuala struggled to make an impact. The Gokulam Kerala defence’s strategy and positioning limited his opportunities and influence in front of the goal. Even though he attempted to adapt by dropping deeper in the formation, Lalrinzuala was unable to pose a significant threat.

The Malabarians, on the other hand, settled into the match nicely and created a number of opportunities in the second half. But an alert Aizawl goalkeeper Nora Fernandes ensured that the scoreline remained 1-1.

by Abhishek Shukla

I-League: Real Kashmir continue steady climb up the ladder

SRINAGAR: Real Kashmir FC extended their unbeaten run to six games as they beat Shillong Lajong FC 3-1 at the TRC Turf Ground in Srinagar on Saturday, December 16, 2023.

The Snow Leopards made a strong start as usual, taking the lead through Ghanaian midfielder Kamal Issah in the fifth minute. Despite conceding their first goal in their six-game unbeaten run via Karim Samb of Shillong Lajong in the 16th minute, the hosts came out stronger off the blocks again after the break.

Striker Gnohere Krizo scored his fifth goal of the season to restore Real Kashmir’s lead in the 55th minute before young midfielder Mohammad Inam wrapped up the three points with a 69th-minute strike.

The victory has seen Ishfaq Ahmed’s Real Kashmir jump to third place in the table, level on 20 points with Sreenidi Deccan and only trailing on goal difference. Shillong Lajong’s second straight loss means they lose more ground on the frontrunners. Bobby Nongbet’s side remain fifth with 16 points from 10 matches.

After five consecutive games in Srinagar, Real Kashmir are set to travel to Sri Bhaini Sahib to take on Delhi FC in their next encounter on December 24. Shillong Lajong will return to their comfort zone at the SSA Stadium to face Namdhari FC on December 23.

by Abhishek Shukla

Khelo India Para Games 2023: Jammu’s Sheetal Devi pips UP’s Jyoti Baliyan for gold

New Delhi, 16 December 2023: Sheetal Devi continued her stunning form with a gold in the Open category of compound archery event at the inaugural Khelo India Para Games on Saturday. Sheetal’s 141 at the JLN Stadium was just enough to ward off a serious challenge from Uttar Pradesh’s Jyoti Baliyan, who won the silver with 138.
 
Sheetal Devi has been making headlines ever since the armless archer from Jammu won two medals at her maiden Asian Para Games in Hangzhou. But at these Games, Sheetal did not have it easy and had to dig into her skills and mental strength to pip Jyoti in a thrilling finish. Sarita from Haryana won bronze with a score of 137.
 
Paralympians Harvinder Singh of Haryana and Vivek Chikara from Uttar Pradesh also finished among the medals in recurve archery. While Harvinder won gold, Chikara settled for silver and Sahil from Haryana won the bronze.
 
Para Asian Games 2023 silver medalist Rudransh Khandelwal of Rajasthan continued his good form on the final day at the Dr Karni Singh Shooting Range, as he claimed the gold medal in the Men’s 50m Pistol SH1 event with a score of 223.4. Khandelwal, who holds the World Record in the same event, surpassed Haryana’s Singhraj (216.4) who settled for silver. Rajasthan’s Shiv Raj Sankhala won the ronze medal with a score of 194.7.
 
BRIEF SCORES
 
Table Tennis: Final scores:
 
Women’s Class-5 category: Shitalben Darji (Guj) beat Bharti Ben Padhariya (Guj) 3-2 (11-13, 11-5, 11-6, 8-11, 11-5)
Women’s Class 1-3 category: Sonal Patel (Guj) beat Vidya Kumari (Bihar) 3-0 (11-3, 11-1, 11-2)
 
Men’s Class-2 category: Lloyd Fernandes (Goa) beat Avinash Gopinathan (TN) 3-0 (11-6, 11-7, 11-9)
Men’s Class-1 category: J.D. Madan (TN) beat Mayank Srivastava (UP) 3-0 (11-5, 11-5, 11-9) Men’s Class-3 category: Shubham Wadhwa (Pun) beat Madhu Ram (Raj) 3-0 (11-3, 11-7, 11-1)

by Abhishek Shukla

Abu Dhabi to Host Prestigious 2024 World Judo Championships

Abu Dhabi to Host Prestigious 2024 World Judo Championships

The International Judo Federation (IJF) has officially announced that Abu Dhabi will host the 2024 World Judo Championships in May 2024. This premier event marks a significant milestone in the sport’s history, as the United Arab Emirates continues to strengthen its partnership with the IJF, a relationship that began with the inaugural Abu Dhabi Grand Prix in 2009.

Transformed into a grand slam event, Abu Dhabi has since become a magnet for major international judo competitions, including the Kata and Veterans World Championships held in October 2023.

The 2024 World Championships in Abu Dhabi will be the final major qualifying event for the Paris Olympics, guaranteeing a display of top-tier judo talent and intense competition. Athletes from around the globe will converge in Abu Dhabi, vying for glory and the chance to secure their spots at the Olympic Games.

The IJF and the UAE Judo Federation have expressed their commitment to delivering an event of the highest quality, emphasizing widespread media coverage and viewership to promote the sport of judo and its core values.

The support and attention from the President and the government of the United Arab Emirates towards judo and sports, in general, have been instrumental in bringing this prestigious event to fruition. The UAE’s reputation as a hub of innovation and sport is set to be further cemented by hosting the 2024 World Judo Championships, which promises to be a memorable and groundbreaking event in the world of judo.

by Abhishek Shukla

Bobsleigh: Arturs Klots Triumphs at Para Sport World Cup in Sigulda

Sigulda, Latvia – The Para Sport Bobsleigh World Cup, held on December 16, 2023, witnessed an exhilarating showcase of skill and determination in the Para Bobsleigh competition. Athletes from across the globe converged at the Sigulda track to compete in this prestigious event.

Arturs Klots emerged victorious, setting an impressive total time of 1:28.25. His consistent performance across both runs, maintaining the top position in each interval, showcased his exceptional control and speed, with a final speed of 75.73 km/h in the second run.

Close behind, Robert Balk secured the second spot with a total time of 1:28.49, just 0.24 seconds behind Klots. This narrow margin highlighted the intense competition and high skill levels of the participants.

Hermann Ellmauer claimed the third position with a total time of 1:28.56, demonstrating the close competition with only 0.31 seconds separating him from the leader.

Corie Mapp, another strong competitor, finished fourth with a total time of 1:28.58, a mere 0.33 seconds behind the leader, further emphasizing the tight contest among the top contenders.

The event, part of the IBSF Para Sport World Cup, was not just a competition but a celebration of the athletes’ resilience and dedication to the sport. The Sigulda track, known for its technical demands, provided a challenging yet fair ground for this thrilling event.

by Abhishek Shukla

ISL: Hyderabad FC seek important answers against an on-song Odisha FC

Bhubaneswar, December 16, 2023 – Odisha FC is set to resume their Indian Super League (ISL) campaign as they host Hyderabad FC at Kalinga Stadium on December 17. After securing a spot in the AFC Cup knockouts with a 1-0 victory over Basundhara Kings FC, Sergio Lobera’s side looks to extend their unbeaten streak in the ISL, which currently features a balanced record of two draws and two wins in their last four outings.

Under Lobera, Odisha FC has gradually found its rhythm, showcasing a distinct style synonymous with the Spaniard’s coaching philosophy. Despite a minor setback in their last match at Mohun Bagan Super Giant, where a lead was relinquished due to a brace from Armando Sadiku, Odisha FC remains focused on climbing the ISL standings.

Currently six points behind league leaders FC Goa, Odisha FC aims to narrow this gap. Past successes of Lobera, including a Super Cup win with FC Goa and a domestic double with Mumbai City FC, set high expectations. However, with Odisha FC placed fifth after eight games, the team must avoid any further slip-ups to remain contenders for the title.

Their defense, usually solid under Lobera’s guidance, has shown vulnerability in the second half of games this season, suggesting a need for tactical adjustments.

On the other side, Hyderabad FC is still in pursuit of their first win of the season. Following a 1-1 draw against NorthEast United FC and previous losses to Kerala Blasters FC and the Mariners, Hyderabad FC faces a challenging task against the in-form Odisha FC. Thangboi Singto, the head coach, must harness his team’s potential and exploit Odisha FC’s weaknesses, particularly in the latter stages of the match.

Key players like Amey Ranawade for Odisha FC and Mohammad Yasir for Hyderabad FC will be crucial in determining the outcome of this encounter. Ranawade has been a consistent performer, while Yasir’s creative prowess could be pivotal for Hyderabad FC’s offensive efforts.

With a significant portion of the season still ahead, this match could be a turning point for both teams. Odisha FC aims to solidify their title challenge, while Hyderabad FC seeks to kickstart a comeback journey.

by Abhishek Shukla

Lisa Buckwitz with second monobob World Cup victory in InnsbruckKaysha Love in second place, Breeana Walker third

Innsbruck (RWH) Bobsleigh pilot Lisa Buckwitz (GER) has celebrated her second monobob victory of the 2023/2024 BMW IBSF World Cup season in Innsbruck (AUT). In the Olympic ice track in Igls, the World Championship bronze medallist relegated World Cup season opener winner Kaysha Love from the USA (0.11 seconds back) and Australia’s Breeana Walker (0.13 seconds back) to second and third place.


Great Britain’s Adele Nicoll made it into the top ten in the World Cup for the first time in Innsbruck. The 27-year-old was the British shot put champion in 2022 and was initially a push athlete for pilot Mica Mc Neill. Together, the duo celebrated 2-woman bobsleigh World Cup silver in Sigulda (LAT) in January 2022. In Innsbruck, Adele Nicoll now sat on the bobsleigh steering ropes herself for the first time as a World Cup pilot.


In the BMW IBSF World Cup 2023/2024, inaugural winner Kaysha Love (USA, 627 points) regained her lead in the overall standings with second place in Innsbruck. Lisa Buckwitz (GER, 618) is second overall ahead of Breeana Walker (AUS, 594).

by Abhishek Shukla

Egypt and England to renew rivalry in WSF Men’s World Team Championship final

Egypt and England will lock horns once more for the WSF Men’s World Team Championship title after comprehensive wins over Switzerland and France, respectively.

In the day’s first semi-final, England blew away European rivals, France, in the two sides’ sixth meeting at this stage of the competition.

In a one-sided opening match, England No.1 Mohamed ElShorbagy extended his 100 percent record against his counterpart Victor Crouin.

Crouin, who perhaps went into the match feeling the effects of his 78-minute five gamer against Joel Makin in the quarter-final, struggled to deal with ElShorbagy’s ferocity on court, with ‘the Beast’ powering his side into the lead with 11-7, 11-4, 11-4 wins.

The second match, between Marwan ElShorbagy and Baptiste Masotti, was a more even affair, with ElShorbagy saving a game ball in a tense 14-12 opening game win before pushing on to victory with an 11-5 win in game two and an 11-7 in game three.

Speaking after the tie, England National Coach David Campion said: “We always have unbelievable battles with France and today was going to be no exception.

“We set out to try and find that happy balance between being really alert and assertive, and playing with authority, but not going over emotionally.”

Egypt, too, were in dominant form over first-time semi-finalists Switzerland.

World No.1 Ali Farag, a crucial part of the title-winning sides of 2019 and 2017, put in a vintage performance to give his side the lead, with the 31-year-old taking down Swiss No.1 Nicolas Mueller 11-5, 11-7, 11-6 in 28 minutes.Mazen Hesham, promoted to No.2 today with World No.4 Mostafa Asal rested, then came through a competitive battle with Dimitri Steinmann, with the mercurial World No.7 clinching three tight games 11-8, 11-7, 11-8 to send his team through with no need for a third match.

After the tie, Egypt Hesham Al Attar said: “It feels amazing – on paper we were pretty confident but anything can happen, and they’ve got very tough players and you can always be nervous in a semi-final.“We’re just happy to have gone through and hope to do well. It should be a good matchup tomorrow.”

The final of the WSF Men’s World Team Championship take place tomorrow, 17 December, at 15:00 (GMT+13), with the last round of playoffs taking place at 11:00.

Results:

WSF Men’s World Team Championship Semi-Finals

[1] EGYPT 2-0 SWITZERLAND [4]

Ali Farag 3-0 Nicolas Mueller 11-5, 11-7, 11-6 (28m)

Mazen Hesham 3-0 Dimitri Steinmann 11-8, 11-7, 11-8 (43m)

Youssef Soliman MW Robin Gadola

[2] ENGLAND 2-0 FRANCE [3]

Mohamed ElShorbagy 3-0 Victor Crouin: 11-7, 11-4, 11-4 (31m)

Marwan ElShorbagy 3-0 Baptise Masotti: 14-12, 11-5, 11-7 (32m)Patrick Rooney MW Auguste Dussourd

by Abhishek Shukla

PKL 10: ‘Zafardanesh is a future Pro Kabaddi League Star,’ says U Mumba Head Coach Gholamreza Mazandarani

PUNE, 16th December 2023: U Mumba registered a thrilling 42-40 victory over Patna Pirates in the Pro Kabaddi League Season 10 on Friday. The Iranian all-rounder Amirmohammad Zafardanesh was in the thick of things with 13 points in the game. Speaking about his performance, U Mumba Head Coach Gholamreza Mazandarani said, “Zafardanesh will need time to mature as a player. He will learn from his mistakes and get better. He’s a very intelligent player and he’s a future Pro Kabaddi League star.

“The U Mumba Head Coach further spoke about his prime focus this season, “My main focus is to help the youngsters in the team. They are getting better with every game that we play. We currently have three young players — Zafardanesh, Visvanth and Sombir — in our team. I am going to play the other youngsters in the side as well as we progress through the tournament.

“Mazandarani also said that U Mumba’s defence unit has to improve for the team to have a better chance of winning matches, “Our defence unit certainly needs to get better. Our raiders are doing very well and we have good raiders on the bench as well. So if our defenders play better then we’ll win games with larger margins.

“Preview for the matches on Sunday:The Patna Pirates will be looking to bounce back after two consecutive defeats when they take on Jaipur Pink Panthers on Sunday, meanwhile, the Panthers will be looking to attain momentum after an up-and-down start to the season.

U Mumba will be hoping for Amirmohammad Zafardanesh to continue his brilliant form when they take on Tamil Thalaivas, however, the side from Tamil Nadu is high on confidence after pulling off a gripping victory against Telugu Titans in their previous encounter.

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

Game 1 – Patna Pirates vs Jaipur Pink Panthers – 8 pm Game 2 – U Mumba vs Tamil Thalaivas – 9 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

Infliction’s 10th Anniversary: A Milestone in Australian Muaythai

Carrara Sports Stadium, Australia – A landmark event in the world of Muaythai is set to unfold as Infliction celebrates its 10th anniversary. This highly anticipated event, in collaboration with Muaythai Australia, the International Federation of Muaythai Associations (IFMA), and the World Muaythai Council (WMC), promises to be a spectacular showcase of skill and athleticism.

The excitement is palpable for what is being touted as one of the biggest Muaythai shows in 2023. Fans and enthusiasts are eagerly awaiting the action-packed card, which includes a groundbreaking female Super 4 tournament. This tournament is particularly noteworthy for its $10,000 prize money, setting a new benchmark as the largest female prize purse in Australian Muaythai history.

The highlight of the evening is the much-anticipated main bout, featuring Australia’s top Muaythai talent, Jayden Eynaud of Strikeforce Muay Thai. Eynaud will be facing off against Paul Banasiak from the USA, in a highly competitive match for the WMC Cruiser Weight World Title. This bout not only promises thrilling action but also exemplifies the international appeal and growing popularity of Muaythai.

Nick Atkins, the event’s promoter, has emphasized the immense effort that has gone into organizing this world-class event. Atkins assures that the traditions and conditions of Muaythai will be honored and upheld, ensuring a true representation of the sport’s rich heritage.

Adding to the event’s prestige, IFMA president Dr. Sakchye Tapsuwan has extended a personal congratulatory message to Australia. The event is also set to attract numerous VIPs from the Olympic and government sectors, reflecting the sport’s growing recognition and significance on the global stage.

This event is not just a celebration of Infliction’s decade-long journey but also a tribute to Muaythai Australia. Established in 1995 and fully recognized by the Australian Sports Commission, Muaythai Australia has been instrumental in the national and international development of the sport. Their efforts have significantly contributed to Muaythai’s journey towards International Olympic Committee (IOC) recognition, marking over 30 years of dedication and progress.

As the Carrara Sports Stadium gears up for this monumental event, wishes of good luck extend to all fighters competing. Congratulations are also in order for the entire team at Infliction, who have worked tirelessly to put together another epic showcase of Muaythai. This event is not just a sporting spectacle; it’s a testament to the enduring spirit and growing legacy of Muaythai in Australia and across the world.

by Abhishek Shukla

NXT Level Up Showcases Rising Talent in Action-Packed Event

The latest NXT Level Up event, held on December 15, 2023, showcased a series of enthralling matches, highlighting the emerging talents in WWE’s NXT roster.

  1. SCRYPTS Triumphs Over Javier Bernal: Known for his usual role of interference, SCRYPTS shifted gears to face Javier Bernal in a competitive bout. Despite Bernal’s valiant efforts, which included a series of heavy strikes and a bulldog move, SCRYPTS emerged victorious. The match turned when Bronco Nima thwarted Bernal’s attempt to win with his feet on the ropes, setting up SCRYPTS for a spectacular handspring cutter to seal the win.
  2. Valentina Feroz Defeats Amari Miller: In a highly anticipated return, Amari Miller, healed from a torn ACL, faced off against Valentina Feroz. The match was marked by a spirited yet respectful rivalry, with Miller receiving a warm welcome back from the NXT Universe. Despite Miller’s aggressive offense, Feroz regained control and executed a Meteora to clinch the victory, demonstrating her aerial prowess and tactical skills.
  3. Tony D’Angelo & Channing “Stacks” Lorenzo Outshine Drew Gulak & Charlie Dempsey: In a tag team match, Tony D’Angelo and Channing “Stacks” Lorenzo took on Drew Gulak and Charlie Dempsey of the No Quarter Catch Crew. The champions, D’Angelo and Lorenzo, showcased their combination of power and grit to overcome the technical skills of Gulak and Dempsey. The match culminated with D’Angelo and Lorenzo executing their signature Bada Bing Bada Boom move to secure the win, reaffirming their dominance in the NXT tag team division.
by Abhishek Shukla

SmackDown Highlights: A Night of Surprises and High-Octane Action

On the thrilling SmackDown episode of December 15, 2023, the WWE Universe witnessed a series of captivating events that kept fans on the edge of their seats.

  1. Roman Reigns Anoints Solo Sikoa as Tribal Prince: In a significant moment, Undisputed WWE Universal Champion Roman Reigns bestowed the title of Tribal Prince upon Solo Sikoa, marking a significant development in their alliance.
  2. Randy Orton’s Bold Declaration: Randy Orton confronted Roman Reigns, declaring him a legend and announcing the return of “The Legend Killer.” This confrontation set the stage for future high-stakes encounters.
  3. Carmelo Hayes Triumphs in United States Championship Tournament: NXT Superstar Carmelo Hayes made a stunning debut on SmackDown, defeating Grayson Waller to advance in the United States Championship Tournament. Hayes’s agility overcame Waller’s size advantage, showcasing his potential as a rising star.
  4. Kevin Owens Defeats Austin Theory: Despite nursing a broken hand, Kevin Owens secured a victory over Austin Theory. Owens’s resilience was on full display as he used his cast to knock out Theory, advancing in the tournament.
  5. The Kabuki Warriors Overcome Zelina Vega & Michin: Asuka and Kairi Sane, known as The Kabuki Warriors, triumphed over the team of Zelina Vega and Michin. The match saw interference from Damage CTRL allies, tipping the scales in favor of The Kabuki Warriors.
  6. Randy Orton Victorious Against Jimmy Uso: In the main event, Randy Orton, “The Viper,” defeated Jimmy Uso. The match saw interference from Solo Sikoa, but LA Knight neutralized the threat, allowing Orton to clinch the win with an RKO.
  7. AJ Styles’ Shocking Return: The episode concluded with a surprise return by “The Phenomenal One” AJ Styles, who took out Roman Reigns, Jimmy Uso, and Solo Sikoa, signaling his entry into the title picture and leaving fans eagerly anticipating what’s next.
by Abhishek Shukla

Volleyball World Beach Pro Tour will return in 2024

The Volleyball World Beach Pro Tour will return to many of its well-known locations with Elite16 or Challenge events during its third season in 2024. The globe-trotting circuit, introduced in 2022, will also visit destinations like Xiamen, Stare Jablonki and Vienna that are new to the Tour, yet iconic venues in the history of beach volleyball, as well as expand international beach volleyball geography to venues that will welcome world-level events for the first time.

The first half of the new season, until June 10, will continue to be marked with the extra incentive, those precious Olympic qualification points on the road to Paris 2024. And just like in 2021, Ostrava in Czechia will organize the last tournament that will count towards the ranking race for the Olympic tickets, as it welcomes an Elite16 tournament from June 5 to 9.

Once again, the season will start and end in Doha. Just like in 2022, the first Elite16 event will take place in the Qatari capital, from March 5 to 9, and the Beach Pro Tour will return to the Gulf city for the Finals from December 5 to 8.

From the Middle East, the 2024 Beach Pro Tour will move to Latin America, where several high-level tournaments will be held in March and April. The Tour will return to Saquarema in Brazil for a Challenge event in March and to Tepic in Mexico for an Elite16 event in April. The Brazilian city of Recife will also welcome a Challenge event in March, 28 years after holding its only previous world-level tournament, the women’s Brazil Open on the 1996 FIVB Beach Volleyball World Tour, while the Mexican city of Guadalajara will organize a Challenge stop in April, its first-ever world-level event.

After this Latin American leg, the Beach Pro Tour will round off its April programme with a Challenge event in Xiamen. The Chinese city, which hosted a number of World Tour tournaments in the past, will welcome a Beach Pro Tour stop for the first time.

Another venue that has hosted many top-calibre beach volleyball competitions in history, including the 2013 FIVB Beach Volleyball World Championships, Stare Jablonki in Poland, also appears on the Beach Pro Tour calendar for the first time, setting the stage for a Challenge tournament in May and June, one of several high-level stops in Europe between late May and late August.

This European leg will start just before that from Portugal, where an Elite16 tournament will be held at a venue yet to be determined.

After the Ostrava Elite16 puts the final touches on the Olympic Ranking in June, Elite16 events will also be held at emblematic European venues like Gstaad in Switzerland and Vienna in Austria in July, before the focus turns to the Olympic Games in Paris, and then also in Hamburg in Germany in late August. Having hosted the World Championships in 2017, a couple of top-level World Tour events in the next two years, as well as the CEV European Championships in 2021 and 2023, the Austrian capital will now be part of the Beach Pro Tour calendar for the first time.

From Hamburg, the beach volleyball elite will fly to another northern city, but in the western hemisphere. At the end of August, Montreal in Canada will host an Elite16 tournament for the second time.

Returning to high-level action in the fall, the Beach Pro Tour will go back to Joao Pessoa in Brazil in October, to India (venue to be determined) in November and to Nuvali in the Philippines in November and December for the last Challenge stops of the season, before it culminates with December’s Finals in Doha.

As Volleyball World continues to work with potential organizers, more exciting high-level tournaments may be added to the 2024 Beach Pro Tour calendar in the weeks to come.

by Abhishek Shukla

Women’s Rugby World Cup England 2025 confirms opening and closing venues

With women’s rugby breaking new ground on and off the pitch, up to 49,000 fans from the North East of England and beyond will have a golden opportunity to watch world’s number one ranked team, the Red Roses, in action on the evening of Friday, 22 August as they kick off the 10th edition of the pinnacle event, which has been expanded to 16 teams.

Twickenham’s hosting of the final on Saturday, 27 September 2025 will be a symbolic and fitting finale to a tournament that aims to capture hearts and headlines around the world, galvanising the next generation of fans, players and partners around one of sport’s most exciting spectacles. In doing so, organisers hope to smash the 58,498 attendance record by selling out one of the world’s most iconic sporting venues.

A joint venture between World Rugby, the RFU, with support from the UK Government, England 2025 aims to be a spectacular celebration of women’s rugby, women’s sport and England, an era-defining tournament that will set new standards, attract new audiences and provide an exciting catalyst to nationwide and global rugby growth.

Five weeks of action-packed matches will culminate with the Women’s Rugby World Cup final, which will be held at the historic home of England rugby, Twickenham Stadium, with sights set on achieving world record audiences both in stadia and across all fan platforms.

An era-defining tournament

For the first time ever, the expanded showcase event will be hosted across eight venues and cities around the country with 16 teams competing to be crowned world champions. The countrywide format makes it the most accessible Women’s Rugby World Cup ever, offering an unparalleled opportunity across the five-week schedule for fans to see, engage with and support the stars of the women’s game in towns and cities around England.

World Rugby Chairman Sir Bill Beaumont said: “Women’s Rugby World Cup England 2025 will be a generational moment for rugby. The biggest, most accessible and most widely-viewed, its unstoppable momentum will reach, engage and inspire new audiences in ways that rugby events have not done before.

“The selection of Sunderland for the opening match underscores that mission. We want this to be a sports event that everyone is talking about, that everyone wants to be a part of and one that inspires young people to be a part of.”

Sunderland lights up

Today, 60 young women’s and girls’ players from Sunderland got the unique opportunity to be coached by Red Roses’ transition coach and the world’s most-capped women’s player, Sarah Hunter at the Stadium of Light to mark the occasion.

Speaking at the event, Hunter said: “It’s been a real privilege to be part of today’s announcement of the opening and closing venues of Rugby World Cup 2025 and to meet so many talented rugby players from the North East.  

“The Red Roses opening game of the tournament at the Stadium of Light will be an amazing experience for the players and fans and having witnessed the electric atmosphere of almost sixty thousand watching the Red Roses at Twickenham earlier this year, I’ve every confidence it will sell out for the final.”

Hosting preparations advancing

Managing Director, Women’s Rugby World Cup 2025, Sarah Massey who was also present added: “We’ve been working in collaboration with our cities and venues teams to engage with the local communities and maximise opportunities to give them an unforgettable and inclusive fan experience.

“This is the era of women’s sport and women’s rugby will make its biggest, boldest statement in 2025. With tickets going on sale next year, our message to rugby, sport and major event fans is mark your diaries now for the event of 2025. It will be massive.”

RFU Executive Director of Rugby Development and Rugby World Cup 2025 Board Member, Steve Grainger said: “Both the Stadium of Light and Twickenham Stadium, as hosts of the opening and closing matches, along with the other six tournament venues evidences the RFU’s tournament goal of boosting development of the sport right around the country and achieving our ambition to have 100,000 female players by 2027.  

“To drive forward this work we are delighted to be working closely with Sport England, the UK Government and other organisations to create a transformational legacy programme. We are very grateful to Government for committing funding to this transformational tournament.”

The perfect opener

Also in attendance in Sunderland was Sports Minister, Stuart Andrew who added: “Sunderland’s Stadium of Light will provide the perfect opening act for what is set to be a record-breaking tournament of women’s rugby.

“The Government is a proud supporter of Rugby World Cup 2025, which will inspire women and girls all over the country to pick up a ball and follow in the footsteps of their heroes.”

Leader of Sunderland City Council, Councillor Graeme Miller said: “It’s incredibly exciting for Sunderland to be playing host to the opening game of the Women’s Rugby World Cup at the Stadium of Light.

“The last few years have seen a massive surge of interest in women’s rugby and women’s sport in general, so having the opportunity to cheer on the Red Roses in a World Cup match so close to home is brilliant news for sports fans across the North East.

“It’s also a wonderful opportunity for our city and our region to shine on the international stage and we’re very much looking forward to welcoming fans from across the world when the biggest ever celebration of women’s rugby kicks off in Sunderland in August 2025.”

Canada, England, France and New Zealand have already qualified for Women’s Rugby World Cup 2025 after finishing in the top four at RWC 2021, with the remaining positions to be filled via WXV and regional competitions in 2024. Commercial demand also continues to grow with four official partners – Mastercard, Capgemini, Gallagher and Mitsubishi Electric – already on board for England 2025.

by Abhishek Shukla

MLB: Pittsburgh Pirates Secure Outfielder Edward Olivares in Trade Deal with Kansas City Royals

In a significant move to bolster their outfield, the Pittsburgh Pirates today announced the acquisition of Edward Olivares from the Kansas City Royals. The trade saw minor league outfielder Deivis Nadal heading to the Royals, marking a key exchange in the teams’ strategies.

Olivares, a 27-year-old outfielder, has been on a notable rise, establishing career-highs across multiple categories in the 2023 season. His performance with the Royals was impressive, batting .263 with 93 hits in 354 at-bats. His record includes 23 doubles, four triples, 12 home runs, 36 RBIs, 47 runs scored, and 11 stolen bases in 107 games.

The outfielder’s prowess was particularly evident in his home run statistics. Olivares averaged an impressive 416 feet on his 12 home runs during the 2023 campaign. This remarkable distance tied him for the fourth-longest average home run distance in the American League, trailing only behind prominent players like Matt Wallner, Shohei Ohtani, and Josh Donaldson. His achievement also placed him tied for ninth-best in the Major Leagues.

Olivares’ performance peaked in the final stretch of the season, hitting .329 with a .657 slugging percentage in 22 games during September and October. This exceptional performance led the American League in slugging percentage and ranked him third in batting average, only behind Yandy Diaz of Tampa Bay and Andres Gimenez of Cleveland.

Before joining the Royals, Olivares made his major league debut with San Diego in 2020, having been signed as a non-drafted free agent by Toronto in 2014. Over his career, he boasts an average of .261 with 35 doubles, five triples, 24 home runs, 73 RBIs, 15 stolen bases, and 94 runs scored in 230 games, covering his time with San Diego and Kansas City.

With Olivares’ arrival, the Pittsburgh Pirates have filled their 40-man roster, signaling a strategic move as they gear up for the upcoming season. Olivares’ addition is expected to bring a new dynamism to the Pirates’ outfield, complementing the team’s existing strengths and adding a significant depth to their offensive capabilities.

by Richard Miller (US)

NBA: Brunson’s Career-High 50 Points Propel Knicks Past Suns 139-122

PHOENIX – In an exceptional display of shooting prowess, Jalen Brunson’s career-high 50 points, including a flawless 9-for-9 from beyond the arc, powered the New York Knicks to a commanding 139-122 victory over the Phoenix Suns on Friday night. Brunson’s performance was a masterclass in scoring, as he led the Knicks in a high-scoring affair.

Brunson, the Knicks’ sixth-year guard, was unstoppable, making 17 of his 23 attempts, including a perfect 12-for-12 in the second half. His final three-pointer of the night brought his tally to 50, a feat never before achieved by a Knicks player with nine made three-pointers. “I was just playing free,” said Brunson, reflecting on his historic night.

The Suns, who suffered a significant blow with star guard Bradley Beal exiting in the first quarter due to an ankle injury, struggled to contain the Knicks’ offensive onslaught. Beal, already hampered by a sore back this season, landed awkwardly after a three-point attempt, resulting in a Flagrant 1 foul against New York’s Donte DiVincenzo.

Despite Kevin Durant’s 29 points and Devin Booker’s 28, the Suns couldn’t match the Knicks’ firepower. Durant acknowledged the Knicks’ offensive prowess, especially in the pick-and-roll situations that proved decisive.

Phoenix initially led by 10 in the third quarter but only managed a slim 99-97 advantage entering the final period. Brunson’s exceptional 19-point third quarter, featuring a perfect shooting streak, kept New York in the hunt. Knicks coach Tom Thibodeau lauded Brunson’s shooting as “special.”

In the fourth quarter, the Knicks surged ahead with a 13-4 run and maintained their lead, ultimately pulling away in the closing minutes. The Suns’ loss adds to their recent struggles, dropping six of their last eight games.

The game also featured a moment of honor for former Suns star Shawn Marion, who was inducted into the Suns’ Ring of Honor. Marion, a key figure in the Suns’ successful runs in the mid-2000s, was celebrated for his significant contributions to the team.

The Knicks, riding high on this emphatic win, next face the Los Angeles Clippers, while the Suns host the Washington Wizards.

Brunson’s extraordinary night, combined with Julius Randle’s solid 23-point contribution, underlines the Knicks’ potential as a formidable offensive force. For the Suns, Beal’s injury and the loss could mean further adjustments as they continue their season.