by Abhishek Shukla

NHL: Stamkos Scores Four in Lightning’s 7-4 Victory Over Oilers

EDMONTON — Steven Stamkos delivered a stellar performance with four goals, leading the Tampa Bay Lightning to a 7-4 win against the Edmonton Oilers at Rogers Place on Thursday. The victory ended Edmonton’s eight-game winning streak, showcasing Tampa Bay’s resilience and firepower.

Stamkos’ remarkable achievement marked his first-ever four-goal game in his 1,031st NHL game. His goals in the third period were crucial in breaking the tie and securing the win for the Lightning. Coach Jon Cooper shared a light moment with Stamkos, reflecting on the rarity of such a feat in his illustrious career.

The Lightning’s goalie, Andrei Vasilevskiy, was also pivotal in the win, making an astounding 53 saves. Nikita Kucherov contributed a goal and an assist, helping Tampa Bay improve their record to 14-12-5.

Stamkos emphasized the vital role of Vasilevskiy, stating that the goalie’s performance was the cornerstone of their victory, especially given the quality of the opposition.

Connor McDavid extended his point streak to 11 games for the Oilers, with a goal and an assist, while Evan Bouchard extended his to 13 with two assists. Ryan Nugent-Hopkins added a goal and two assists, but goalie Stuart Skinner’s 17 saves weren’t enough to fend off the Lightning’s offensive surge.

The game began with Stamkos scoring on a power play in the first period, followed by Tyler Motte’s goal for a 2-0 lead. The Oilers responded with goals from Darnell Nurse, McDavid, and Zach Hyman, taking a brief lead before Tampa Bay’s third-period rally.

Stamkos’ third-period goals, along with Kucherov’s crucial strike, shifted the momentum in favor of the Lightning. Edmonton’s Nugent-Hopkins managed to narrow the gap, but Anthony Cirelli’s empty-net goal and Stamkos’ final goal sealed the win for Tampa Bay.

Edmonton’s Leon Draisaitl felt the Oilers were the better team and deserved to win, highlighting the unpredictable nature of hockey.

Notable achievements in the game included Stamkos’ second instance of scoring three goals in a period and his entry into the elite group of players with 200 power-play goals. Kucherov’s continued form brought his season tally to 50 points in 30 games. The game also marked the second instance this season of the Lightning scoring five goals in the third period.

The win for the Lightning is a statement of their ability to perform against top teams, while the Oilers will look to rebound from this setback and continue their strong form.

by Abhishek Shukla

NHL: Blues Triumph in Bannister’s Coaching Debut, Defeat Senators 4-2

ST. LOUIS — The St. Louis Blues marked a new chapter under coach Drew Bannister with a convincing 4-2 victory over the Ottawa Senators at the Enterprise Center on Thursday. The win came as a refreshing change for the Blues, who had suffered four consecutive defeats leading to the replacement of coach Craig Berube with Bannister earlier this week.

Robert Thomas was the standout performer for the Blues, contributing two goals and an assist. Pavel Buchnevich added a goal and an assist, and Justin Faulk provided two assists, helping to turn the tide for the Blues. Jordan Binnington’s 32 saves were crucial in securing the win for St. Louis, which now stands at 14-14-1.

Thomas praised the team’s unity and support for one another on the ice, emphasizing the positive change in their play style under Bannister’s guidance.

For the Senators, who dropped to 11-13-0, Dominik Kubalik scored, and Joonas Korpisalo made 26 saves. Ottawa’s coach, D.J. Smith, acknowledged the Blues’ aggressive start and pointed out the need for better responses to such challenges.

The game saw Thomas opening the scoring in the first period with a skilled play, followed by his second goal in the second period off a backhand shot. Brandon Saad extended the Blues’ lead with a one-timer, and Buchnevich’s goal in the third period solidified their control over the game.

Mathieu Joseph scored for Ottawa late in the third period, but it wasn’t enough to mount a comeback. Joseph noted the team’s lack of energy and speed, which are usually their strengths.

Noteworthy performances included Thomas’s continued scoring form, with 13 points in his last 12 games. On the other hand, Ottawa’s Claude Giroux saw his four-game point streak end.

Additional notes from the game included Blues forward Mackenzie MacEachern’s physical presence in his season debut, and Senators forward Mark Kastelic’s return from injury, marking his first game since early November.

This victory for the Blues under Bannister’s leadership could signal a turning point in their season, instilling confidence and a renewed sense of team spirit. The Senators, on the other hand, will look to regroup and bring back the speed and energy that defines their gameplay.

by Abhishek Shukla

NHL: Boldy and Zuccarello Seal Shootout Win for Wild Over Flames, 3-2

ST. PAUL, Minn. — The Minnesota Wild clinched a nail-biting 3-2 victory over the Calgary Flames in a shootout at the Xcel Energy Center on Thursday, with Matt Boldy scoring in his third consecutive game. Mats Zuccarello and Boldy each found the net in the decisive shootout.

Boldy, celebrating his recent scoring form, credited the win to the team’s collective effort and desperation to maintain their winning streak. Marco Rossi also scored for the Wild, while Filip Gustavsson made 35 saves, contributing to Minnesota’s success. The Wild, under coach John Hynes since November 27, have now won six of their past eight games, improving their record to 11-12-4.

The Flames, despite a valiant effort, extended their losing streak with this defeat. Yegor Sharangovich continued his scoring run with a goal and an assist, and Blake Coleman also scored. Goalkeeper Dan Vladar saved 30 shots for Calgary, who now sit at 11-14-5, having lost four straight and six of their last seven games.

Boldy opened the scoring for Minnesota with a wrist shot at 4:42 of the first period. Calgary responded with vigor, and Sharangovich tied the game at 1-1 with a power-play goal in the second period. Coleman then gave the Flames a brief lead in the third period with a fortuitous deflection, but Rossi responded for the Wild just 45 seconds later to tie the game at 2-2.

Both teams displayed resilience, with Calgary’s coach Ryan Huska acknowledging their slow start but appreciating their overall game. He felt the Flames deserved the extra point, highlighting the closely contested nature of the match.

Gustavsson’s crucial save in the second period, confirmed after a video review, was a pivotal moment, preventing Calgary from taking an early lead.

In the notes, Boldy’s scoring prowess was highlighted as he scored his sixth goal since December 1, tying with Jake Guentzel for the second-most goals in that span. Rossi’s goal solidified his position as one of the top-performing rookies this season. On the Flames’ side, Sharangovich’s scoring streak continued, putting him in elite company in Calgary’s history, while Elias Lindholm’s face-off efficiency and shot count were significant contributions.

This game exemplified the competitiveness of the NHL, with both teams showcasing their strengths and the Wild ultimately prevailing in the shootout. The Wild’s recent form under Hynes’ coaching suggests a positive trajectory, while the Flames will look to reverse their fortunes in upcoming games.

by Abhishek Shukla

NHL: Hurricanes Edge Red Wings 2-1, Kochetkov Stars in Goal

DETROIT — The Carolina Hurricanes secured a narrow 2-1 victory over the Detroit Red Wings at Little Caesars Arena on Thursday, with goaltender Pyotr Kochetkov playing a pivotal role. The win marks a positive end to the Hurricanes’ challenging six-game road trip.

Jordan Staal, the Hurricanes’ captain, was instrumental in breaking the tie in the second period, contributing to the team’s victory. Jack Drury also scored for Carolina, who have improved their season record to 16-12-1. They now look forward to hosting the Nashville Predators on Friday.

Staal praised Kochetkov’s performance, acknowledging him as a difference-maker in the game. The goaltender made 25 saves, providing the Hurricanes with the stability they needed.

On the Red Wings’ side, Michael Rasmussen scored, and goalie Ville Husso made an impressive 37 saves. Despite Husso’s efforts, Detroit coach Derek Lalonde expressed frustration over a crucial mistake that reflected the team’s need for consistent excellence. The Red Wings have now lost four of their past five games, dropping to a record of 15-10-4.

Drury opened the scoring for the Hurricanes at 4:48 of the first period, immediately following a power play. His goal, assisted by Stefan Noesen, caught the Red Wings’ penalty killers off-guard.

Rasmussen equalized for Detroit at 5:20 of the second period with a precise wrist shot, but Staal’s opportune goal at 11:49 put the Hurricanes ahead. Husso’s miscalculation on Brett Pesce’s dump-in allowed Staal to seize the moment, beating Husso and Justin Holl to the puck for the decisive goal.

Carolina coach Rod Brind’Amour praised Staal for his perseverance throughout a challenging season, noting his significant contribution in this game.

The Red Wings had a chance to tie the game late in the third period, but Kochetkov’s remarkable saves, including a critical stop on Alex DeBrincat’s one-timer and a point-blank save on Robby Fabbri, secured the win for the Hurricanes.

The game, characterized by aggressive play, especially from Carolina, saw the Hurricanes outshooting the Red Wings 14-7 in the final period.

Notably, Staal was dominant in face-offs, winning 13 of 16, while Hurricanes forward Seth Jarvis led with seven shots on goal. Both teams opted for 11 forwards and seven defensemen, with Rasmussen achieving his 100th NHL point. On the Red Wings’ side, David Perron served the third game of a six-game suspension.

This match showcased Carolina’s resilience and ability to close out a game, while the Red Wings will look to rebound from their recent struggles.

by Abhishek Shukla

NHL: Blue Jackets Survive Maple Leafs Comeback, Win 6-5 in Overtime

TORONTO — In a game of dramatic shifts, the Columbus Blue Jackets held off a stunning comeback by the Toronto Maple Leafs to secure a 6-5 overtime victory at Scotiabank Arena on Thursday. Kent Johnson was the hero for Columbus, scoring the winning goal in overtime, in addition to an earlier assist.

Columbus initially dominated, leading 5-0 after two periods, only for Toronto to rally with five unanswered goals in the third period, sending the game into overtime. Johnson’s decisive strike at 3:26 of overtime, a sharp shot over Ilya Samsonov’s glove, brought relief and triumph to the Blue Jackets.

Yegor Chinakhov and Justin Danforth each contributed a goal and an assist for Columbus, and goalie Elvis Merzlikins returned from illness to make 43 saves. However, the Blue Jackets faced a concern as forward Patrik Laine left the game with an upper-body injury.

Columbus coach Pascal Vincent praised the team’s initial two-period performance and acknowledged the need to learn from the third period’s near-collapse.

Toronto’s comeback was spearheaded by Auston Matthews with two goals and an assist, and Mitchell Marner, who had a goal and two assists. William Nylander also played a key role with a goal and an assist. Despite the loss, the Maple Leafs extended their point streak to eight games (5-0-3).

The third period was a showcase of Toronto’s resilience. Nylander initiated the scoring just 38 seconds into the period, followed by Marner’s creative goal at 3:49. Jake McCabe’s first goal of the season and Matthews’ back-to-back goals in the last two minutes brought the game to a tie, reflecting the team’s never-say-die attitude.

Columbus’s historic win became even more significant as they became the sixth team in NHL history, and the first since 1992, to win after relinquishing a five-goal lead.

Notable performances included Johnson’s plus-4 rating for Columbus in 14:23 of ice time and point streak extensions for Matthews and Nylander. However, the Maple Leafs suffered a setback with forward Ryan Reaves leaving the game due to a leg injury, with coach Sheldon Keefe indicating he might be sidelined for some time.

The Blue Jackets’ victory, while exhilarating, highlighted areas for improvement, particularly in maintaining leads. For Toronto, the game demonstrated their capability for impressive comebacks, even though it ultimately ended in a loss.

by Abhishek Shukla

NHL: Flyers Overcome Capitals in Shootout Thriller, 4-3

PHILADELPHIA — The Philadelphia Flyers clinched a dramatic 4-3 shootout victory over the Washington Capitals at the Wells Fargo Center on Thursday, with Owen Tippett’s late third-period goal paving the way. The win extends the Flyers’ impressive seven-game point streak, now standing at 5-0-2.

The Flyers, who started the game on a sluggish note, showcased resilience and adaptability. Coach John Tortorella acknowledged the team’s initial flat performance but praised their ability to bounce back. Sean Couturier and Bobby Brink were successful in the shootout for Philadelphia, sealing the win.

Morgan Frost contributed with two assists, and Samuel Ersson, stepping in for the ill Carter Hart, made 27 saves, tying for the league lead in shootout wins this season.

Washington’s efforts were led by Dylan Strome and Tom Wilson, each contributing a goal and an assist. Aliaksei Protas also added two assists for the Capitals. Despite these performances and Charlie Lindgren’s 29 saves, Washington couldn’t hold off the Flyers’ late surge.

The game was notable for Alex Ovechkin’s continued goal drought, now the longest of his NHL career, spanning 11 games. Despite this, Capitals coach Spencer Carbery saw positive aspects in the team’s play, particularly their initial lead heading into the third period.

Tippett’s crucial goal, a spinning wrist shot at 17:01 of the third period, brought the game to a 3-3 tie. Brink had earlier given the Flyers a 1-0 lead, and Farabee’s third-period wraparound tied the game at 2-2. For the Capitals, Connor McMichael and Strome found the net, with Strome’s goal initially giving them a 3-2 lead.

The Flyers’ comeback and subsequent win in the shootout demonstrated their tenacity and resilience, a sentiment echoed by Farabee, who highlighted the team’s mental strength to overcome a flat start.

Injury and illness affected both teams. The Flyers were without Hart, and Washington missed Evgeny Kuznetsov due to illness and Sonny Milano, who is on injured reserve. Joe Snively, recalled from the AHL, played in Milano’s place.

Looking ahead, both teams will aim to build on their performances, with the Flyers carrying momentum from their point streak and the Capitals looking to refine their game after a close loss.

by Richard Miller (US)

NBA: Harden Scores 25,000th Career Point in Clippers’ 121-113 Win Over Warriors

LOS ANGELES— James Harden reached a significant milestone, scoring his 25,000th career point, as he led the Los Angeles Clippers to a 121-113 victory over the Golden State Warriors on Thursday night. Harden’s performance, which included 28 points, 15 assists, and seven rebounds, was pivotal in the Clippers’ sixth consecutive win.

Kawhi Leonard contributed significantly with 27 points and eight rebounds, helping the Clippers to overcome Paul George’s absence due to injury. Norman Powell also played a crucial role, scoring 10 of his 21 points in the fourth quarter, as Los Angeles improved to 5-0 at home in December.

Golden State, on the other hand, struggled on their road trip, with the loss to the Clippers marking their third consecutive defeat. Klay Thompson led the Warriors with a season-high 30 points, including eight 3-pointers. However, Stephen Curry managed only 17 points on 5-of-17 shooting, as the Warriors grappled with the absence of Draymond Green, who is indefinitely suspended following an incident against Phoenix.

Golden State coach Steve Kerr emphasized the team’s support for both the suspension and Green, who is seeking help to address his behavior and aggressive play. Green’s absence is a significant blow to the Warriors, who have lost 12 of their last 16 games.

The Clippers, despite missing George, the team’s second-leading scorer, adapted well with Amir Coffey stepping into the starting lineup. Golden State also made adjustments, promoting Jonathan Kuminga and rookie Brandin Podziemski to the starting lineup in place of Green and Andrew Wiggins. Kuminga scored 15 points, but Podziemski struggled with only four points on 2-for-11 shooting.

Thompson’s performance, especially in the third quarter, kept the Warriors close, but the team faltered in the fourth, with Curry and Thompson combining for only 1-for-7 shooting.

Chris Paul, facing his former team, scored 12 points for Golden State, but the Warriors’ road woes continued with their seventh straight road loss, including two defeats to the Clippers this month.

Harden’s milestone moment came on a driving layup late in the third quarter, marking him as the 24th player in NBA history to reach 25,000 points. His integration into the Clippers’ lineup has been seamless, fitting well alongside Leonard and George.

George’s injury absence was a rare setback for a Clippers team that has otherwise enjoyed good health this season, with Leonard playing in every game after being frequently rested in previous seasons.

The Clippers maintained their lead despite a late Warriors surge, including a deep three-pointer by Paul at the end of the third quarter. Golden State closed the gap early in the fourth but struggled to score in the following minutes.

Looking ahead, the Warriors will host the Brooklyn Nets on Saturday, hoping to turn their fortunes around. The Clippers, riding high on their winning streak, will face the New York Knicks on the same day.

by Richard Miller (US)

NBA: Utah Jazz Overcome Trail Blazers 122-114, Sexton and Fonteccio Shine

PORTLAND, Ore. — The Utah Jazz, led by Collin Sexton’s 27 points and Simone Fonteccio’s 24, emerged victorious against the Portland Trail Blazers with a 122-114 win on Thursday night. Despite missing key players, the Jazz displayed resilience and skill in their triumph.

The Jazz, playing without All-Star forward Lauri Markkanen, John Collins, Jordan Clarkson, and Keyonte George, managed to extend their lead to 33 points in the second half. Sexton’s performance was complemented by Fonteccio, who showcased exceptional efficiency by shooting 7 of 8 from the field, including a perfect 5 for 5 from beyond the arc. Talen Horton-Tucker also contributed significantly with 23 points.

On the other side, the Trail Blazers, now on a five-game losing streak and standing at 6-17, were led by rookie guard Scoot Henderson. Henderson impressed with a career-high 23 points and 10 assists in the opener of a five-game homestand for Portland. Rookie forward Toumani Camara set a personal best with 18 points, and Deandre Ayton, returning from a knee injury, added 14 points and nine rebounds.

The Jazz’s shooting accuracy was a key factor in their win, hitting 53.3% from the field compared to Portland’s 41.7%. Despite the Trail Blazers’ late push with their reserves in the fourth quarter, reducing the deficit to eight, the Jazz’s earlier lead proved insurmountable.

This victory marked the second consecutive win for Utah, following their success against the New York Knicks at home on Wednesday.

Looking ahead, the Jazz are set to face the Kings in Sacramento on Saturday, hoping to build on their recent momentum. The Trail Blazers, aiming to break their losing streak, will host the Dallas Mavericks on Saturday in what promises to be a challenging matchup.

by Richard Miller (US)

NBA: Fox Ignites Kings to Victory Over Thunder 128-123, Despite Gilgeous-Alexander’s 43 Points

SACRAMENTO, Calif.  — In a high-scoring thriller on Thursday night, the Sacramento Kings, led by De’Aaron Fox’s 41 points, secured a 128-123 victory over the Oklahoma City Thunder. Despite a remarkable 43-point performance by Shai Gilgeous-Alexander, the Thunder could not overcome the Kings’ late-game execution.

Sacramento faced a late scare as Oklahoma City, trailing by 14 in the fourth quarter, narrowed the gap to just two points with a 13-2 run. However, Fox and rookie Keegan Murray responded with crucial baskets, and the Kings enhanced their defense in the closing moments. This marked Fox’s third 40-point game of the season, complemented by seven assists and three rebounds.

The game highlighted a compelling duel between two of the NBA’s top young point guards. Gilgeous-Alexander excelled at the free-throw line, going 16 for 18, while Fox demonstrated his range with five 3-pointers.

Coming off a loss to the Clippers, the Kings extended their winning streak against the Thunder to eight games. Domantas Sabonis was a significant contributor for Sacramento with 18 points and 16 rebounds, playing a pivotal role in the opening game of a six-game homestand. Malik Monk also added 18 points, and Keon Ellis had a career-high 17.

Oklahoma City, entering the game with four wins in their last five, remained competitive, largely due to Gilgeous-Alexander’s effort. He scored 14 points in the first quarter alone, ending the period with a driving layup to give the Thunder a 30-29 edge.

The Kings shot over 50% from the field in the first half, while the Thunder kept pace, in part thanks to Gilgeous-Alexander’s 20 points and their efficiency at the foul line, making 15 of 17 attempts.

Sacramento established a double-digit lead late in the first half following a three-point play by Fox and entered the break with a 59-53 advantage.

Looking ahead, the Thunder will face a tough challenge against Denver on Saturday night. The Kings, riding the momentum of their latest win, will host the Utah Jazz on the same night, looking to continue their successful run at home.

by Abhishek Shukla

PKL 10: After bright start in Bengaluru, Haryana Steelers gear up for Puneri Paltan challenge

New Delhi, December 15th 2023: The action in Pro Kabaddi League 10 shifts to Pune where Haryana Steelers will begin the third leg of the season on Friday against the home team Puneri Paltan at the Balewadi Sports Complex, Pune. It has been a solid start for the JSW-owned franchise with two big wins in three games and co-captain Mohit Nandal summed up the Bengaluru leg, explaining the reasons behind the team’s success.

“We have won two back-to-back matches after losing the first game, and it has increased the confidence of the team. The players are motivated and we are forming good combinations. All the players are communicating well with each other. The best part of the season so far has been the plans that are being devised by the coaches,” Mohit said ahead of his side’s fourth game of the edition.

The Steelers began their campaign with a 57-27 defeat against the UP Yoddhas in Ahmedabad, but bounced back in style in Bengaluru defeating Bengaluru Bulls 38-32 and Dabang Delhi 35-33. Mohit delved deeper into the areas where the team worked after the first game giving a brief insight into the conversations that happened in the dressing room following the result.

“We lost by a big margin in the first game. The team morale was hit. But our Coach Manpreet Singh told us that it was just the first game and it always takes time to form good combinations. We have a lot of young players in the team – so the coach discussed the strategies with all of us and we trained accordingly. The results speak for themselves,” he said.

Siddharth Desai has been the star of the campaign so far with 21 points, while Jaideep and Mohit, with 10 and 8 points, respectively, have been the backbone of Haryana’s defence once again.

“Overall, the Bengaluru leg was quite good for us. Our key learning is that it is important to communicate between the players. If we can play together as a team, we can put ourselves in winning situations at all times,” Mohit said.

It is always a challenging proposition to play against the home team in front of their fans but Mohit said the team wasn’t worried about crowd reactions and said that his side will focus on their own game.

“We will face off against Puneri Paltan in front of their home crowd. We have already discussed our plans and the teams will look to play as per the strategies discussed by the team. We are confident of getting a good result from the game,” he signed off.

by Richard Miller (US)

NBA: Jokic’s Triple-Double Streak Continues as Nuggets Dominate Nets 124-101

DENVER — Nikola Jokic etched his name in the NBA record books by becoming the first player to achieve at least 10 triple-doubles in seven consecutive seasons, leading the Denver Nuggets to a commanding 124-101 victory over the Brooklyn Nets on Thursday night. This win marked the Nuggets’ third straight triumph.

Jokic, the driving force behind the win, delivered an impressive performance with 26 points, 15 rebounds, and 10 assists, registering his 115th career triple-double during the regular season. The defending champion Nuggets also welcomed back Jamal Murray, who had been sidelined with ankle soreness. Murray contributed significantly with 16 points, while Peyton Watson added 18.

The Nets, playing their second game in as many nights on the road, were without Dennis Smith Jr., who is recovering from an upper-back injury. Spencer Dinwiddie led the team with 17 points, and Cam Thomas chipped in with 13.

Denver, already ahead by 13 points at halftime, exploded for 38 points in the third quarter. Jokic was instrumental in this surge, capping the quarter with a driving layup. Entering the fourth quarter with a commanding 90-67 lead, the Nuggets continued their dominance, extending their advantage to 103-78 on Christian Braun’s breakaway dunk midway through the period.

The Nuggets comfortably played their reserves for much of the final quarter, maintaining a significant lead throughout. Murray’s 14 points in the first half were crucial, as Denver set the defensive tone by allowing only 39 points, their lowest in any half this season.

Looking forward, the Nets face a challenging encounter against the Golden State Warriors on Saturday night. The Nuggets, riding high on their recent success, will host the Oklahoma City Thunder on the same night, aiming to extend their winning streak and solidify their status as title defenders.

by Richard Miller (US)

NBA: Reid’s 27 Points Propel Timberwolves to 119-101 Victory Over Mavericks

DALLAS  — Naz Reid’s season-high 27 points, with 19 scored in the first half, led the Minnesota Timberwolves to a comeback victory over the Dallas Mavericks, ending 119-101 on Thursday night. Karl-Anthony Towns also shone with 21 points and a season-high 17 rebounds, helping the Timberwolves overturn an early 15-point deficit.

The win was significant for Minnesota, improving their record to 18-5 and avoiding their first losing streak of the season, while also tying them with Boston for the NBA’s best record.

Despite a stellar performance from Luka Doncic, who racked up 39 points and 13 rebounds, the Mavericks saw their four-game winning streak snapped. Doncic’s effort marked his ninth consecutive game scoring at least 30 points, underscoring his position as one of the NBA’s leading scorers.

Minnesota, known for their defensive prowess, demonstrated their strength by limiting Dallas to just 41 points in the second half, and a mere 19 points in the fourth quarter.

Anthony Edwards, returning to the Timberwolves’ lineup after a hip injury, contributed nine points. However, it was Reid who stole the spotlight, coming off the bench to hit a career-high seven 3-pointers, including five in the first half. This marked the third time this season that someone other than Edwards or Towns led Minnesota in scoring.

The game’s turning point came midway through the third quarter when the score was tied at 74. The Timberwolves then embarked on an 8-0 run and maintained the lead for the remainder of the match, stretching their advantage to as many as 22 points. Towns played a crucial role during this phase, contributing eight points and six rebounds, while the Mavericks struggled with a shooting percentage of just 36.4% in the quarter.

Dallas felt the absence of Kyrie Irving, their second-leading scorer, who missed his third consecutive game due to a foot injury.

The Mavericks initially held the upper hand, leading 60-59 at halftime, thanks to Doncic’s impressive first-half performance, which included a left-handed layup in the closing seconds. They had started the game strong with a 14-0 run, but Minnesota quickly responded with a 10-0 run of their own to get back into the game.

Looking forward, the Timberwolves will host Indiana on Saturday, while the Mavericks are set to face Portland on the same day, each team looking to build on their current standings in a tightly contested season.

by Richard Miller (US)

NBA: Celtics Extend Home Streak to 12-0 with 116-107 Win Over Cavaliers

BOSTON — The Boston Celtics, led by Jayson Tatum’s 27 points and Jaylen Brown’s 22, continued their dominance at home by defeating the Cleveland Cavaliers 116-107 on Thursday night. This victory marks their 12th consecutive home win, maintaining their unbeaten streak at the TD Garden.

The Celtics, facing the Cavaliers for the second time in a row, emerged victorious yet again, reflecting their strong form that has seen them win six of their last seven games. Kristaps Porzingis contributed 18 points, while Jrue Holiday and Derrick White added 15 and 14 points respectively. Tatum, apart from his scoring prowess, grabbed 11 rebounds, and all five starters for Boston scored in double figures.

“We were locked in, attention to detail,” said Holiday, emphasizing the team’s focused approach throughout the game. The Celtics demonstrated their control, responding effectively to the Cavaliers’ attempts to rally.

Donovan Mitchell led the charge for Cleveland with 31 points, followed by Caris LeVert with 26 and Darius Garland with 19. However, their efforts were not enough to prevent the Cavaliers from suffering their third consecutive loss.

Boston, after seeing their lead cut to three at the end of the third quarter, regained their momentum in the final quarter. Tatum’s impressive fadeaway and step-back three-pointer extended the Celtics’ lead, demonstrating their ability to respond under pressure.

The Cavaliers, despite their efforts to close the gap, were unable to overcome Boston’s resilience. A key moment came with just over three minutes remaining when Holiday’s layup and Tatum’s dunk following a Cleveland turnover effectively sealed the game for the Celtics.

Brown acknowledged the need for the Celtics to improve, noting, “We’ve got to do a better job of putting teams away,” a sentiment reflecting the team’s aspiration to not just win, but dominate.

The Cavaliers showed glimpses of a comeback, particularly in the third quarter when Garland’s energetic play brought them within striking distance. However, they struggled to maintain consistency, as evidenced by their lackluster first half, where they trailed 65-54 at the break.

Boston’s coach Joe Mazzulla praised the team’s growth and ability to stay focused, which was evident in their improved start compared to the previous game against the Cavaliers.

Mitchell’s 21 first-half points were a highlight for Cleveland, but the team’s overall shooting, particularly from the three-point line, left much to be desired.

Cavaliers coach J.B. Bickerstaff lamented the team’s lack of aggression and early settling for shots, areas they improved upon later in the game but not enough to alter the outcome.

The Celtics were also efficient from the free-throw line, making 17 of 20 attempts, continuing their strong performance from the foul line.

Looking ahead, the Cavaliers will host the Atlanta Hawks on Saturday night, hoping to snap their losing streak. The Celtics, maintaining their position at the top of the Eastern Conference, will face the Orlando Magic on Friday, the first of back-to-back games at the TD Garden against Orlando.

by Richard Miller (US)

NBA: Bulls Blaze Past Heat 124-116 with Historic First Quarter Lead

MIAMI — The Chicago Bulls set the stage for a historic night at the AmericanAirlines Arena, opening the game with a 33-8 run against the Miami Heat, a feat unseen since the Michael Jordan era. Their relentless performance led to a 124-116 victory on Thursday, marking a rare achievement even beyond Jordan’s legendary teams.

Coby White spearheaded the Bulls’ offensive onslaught with 26 points, complemented by 11 assists and seven rebounds. Ayo Dosunmu, coming off the bench, added an impressive 24 points, helping the Bulls to maintain their lead throughout the game. Nikola Vucevic contributed a double-double with 24 points and 12 rebounds, along with seven assists.

The Bulls’ 25-point lead in the first quarter was the most substantial since Jordan’s Bulls outpaced Golden State by 27 in 1997. Moreover, the scoring feat of having four players with at least 23 points hadn’t been achieved since 1969, illustrating the exceptional nature of their performance.

Despite their efforts, the Heat, led by Jaime Jaquez Jr. with 22 points, made several attempts to close the gap. Miami managed to reduce the deficit to 14 by the end of the first quarter and even came within four points by halftime. However, Chicago’s consistent bursts of energy kept them ahead, with each Heat rally being met by a decisive Bulls response.

Heat coach Erik Spoelstra acknowledged the Bulls’ dominance, attributing their victory to a strong start and his team’s lack of initial energy. Miami was missing key players like Bam Adebayo and Tyler Herro due to injuries, which impacted their rotation and overall performance.

The game also saw the return and subsequent exit of Alex Caruso from the Bulls’ lineup. Caruso, who had been sidelined due to a sprained left ankle, left the game early after re-aggravating the injury.

Looking ahead, the teams are scheduled for a rematch on Saturday in Miami, marking their fourth and final regular-season meeting. The Heat, eyeing a chance for redemption, hope to have Tyler Herro back on the court, potentially as early as Monday’s game against Minnesota, concluding their four-game homestand.

The Bulls, riding the high of this significant win, will aim to replicate their success and further solidify their position as a formidable force in the league.

by Abhishek Shukla

Sharjah Warriors Name Tom Kohler-Cadmore as Captain, Johan Botha and JP Duminy Join Coaching Staff

Sharjah, 15th December, 2023: The second season of the ILT20 is not too far away, and will kick off with the Capri Sports owned Sharjah Warriors facing the defending champions Gulf Giants in the opener, at one of cricket’s most loved venues, Sharjah.

The Sharjah Warriors, who will be eyeing a strong start to the tournament, have announced the England cricketer Tom Kohler-Cadmore as their captain for the upcoming season. A hard-hitting right-handed batter, Kohler-Cadmore is known for his ability to score quickly, and has played some fantastic knocks during his career so far in white-ball cricket. A regular in the franchise cricket circuit, the 29-year-old wicket-keeper batter has had a fair amount of success while playing the shorter formats in UAE, and boasts of a strike rate of 140 plus in T20s. He has also scored 1 century and smashed 33 half-centuries in more than 150 T20 matches in his career, during which he has scored more than 4000 runs as well.

“I am honoured and delighted to have been named as the captain for the Sharjah Warriors. We have a strong squad that has a healthy mix of experience and youth and plenty of fire power in the ranks as well, and with all of that together, we will be looking to make a solid mark at the ILT20 this season. Each team will be tough competitors, but we are going to give it our very best in every game, said Tom Kohler-Cadmore, Captain, Sharjah Warriors.

The Sharjah Warriors have also named the former South African Captain Johan Botha as the Head Coach while his compatriot JP Duminy is the Batting Coach. Former Warwickshire cricketer Ian Westwood will be the Assistant and Fielding Coach for the Warriors.

Botha has been coaching in franchise cricket since 2017 and has moved around the block a fair bit, plying his trade in the Pakistan Super League, and the Caribbean Premier League with multiple franchises.

Meanwhile, JP Duminy has had a storied international cricket career and turned out in high-profile leagues such as the IPL. Earlier in 2023, Duminy was appointed as the full-time batting coach for the South African men’s white-ball cricket teams, and the team performed brilliantly with the bat at the ODI World Cup in India, where they regularly scored in excess of 300. He was the Head Coach at the Paarl Royals in the SA20 league and at the Boland Rocks’ provincial team

In ODI cricket, During the 2015 ICC Cricket World Cup, Duminy became the first South African to take a hat-trick in a World Cup match, and was well known for his ability in the field as well as with the bat.

“The Sharjah Warriors are preparing with full enthusiasm for the upcoming season of the ILT20. We have built a strong squad that we feel would allow us to put our best foot forward during the tournament and cause a stir. We are looking forward to the tournament, and are excited to see what lies in store” said Johan Botha, Head Coach, Sharjah Warriors.

“In white-ball cricket, especially in the shorter formats, it is very important to have an aggressive mindset, and at the Sharjah Warriors we are confident that our batters will do their bit to keep things moving forward. We have a powerful line-up and there is every scope to cause serious damage to some of the records in the format. said JP Duminy, Batting Coach, Sharjah Warriors.

Speaking on the occasion, Capri Sports, COO Kshemal Waingankar said, “We have some of the best in the business taking on important leadership roles for the second season of the ILT20 for the Sharjah Warriors, and we are confident that they will help provide the team with the right kind of boost. The tournament is an important one in the cricket calendar, and we at Capri Sports will leave no stone unturned in terms of our preparations.”

The Sharjah Warriors is Capri Sports’ first investment in cricket outside of India. They also own a team, UP Warriorz, in the Women’s Premier League in India, alongside supporting indigenous sports such Kabaddi and Kho-Kho.

by Abhishek Shukla

FIH Hockey Men’s Junior World Cup 2023: India all set to take on Spain in 3rd/4th place match

Kuala Lumpur, 15th December 2023: The Indian Junior Men’s Hockey Team will look to put the disappointment of their Semi-Final loss to Germany behind them when they take on Spain for the second time in the FIH Hockey Men’s Junior World Cup Malaysia 2023 on Saturday, 16th December in the 3rd/4th place match.

The Indian Junior Men’s Hockey Team have had a good run in the tournament including a thrilling 4-3 win over the Netherlands in the Quarter-Final, where they came back from being 0-2 down at halftime. Earlier in the tournament, they won their first Pool C game against Korea 4-2 before losing 1-4 to Spain and then beating Canada 10-1 in their final group stage match.

Notably, India have played against Spain eight times in Men’s Junior World Cup history with the latter having the edge over India, winning five of those battles, the most recent match going in favour of Spain. However, after the Semi-Final loss to Germany, India would like to set the record straight against Spain, when they play them in a contest for the Bronze medal.

Indian Junior Men’s Team Captain, Uttam Singh, said, “It is disappointing that we aren’t in the final but we have to put the loss behind us. We have one last match to give our all and we’re going to focus on trying to win that game.”

Meanwhile, Coach C R Kumar said, “We really would’ve loved to have been playing the final but now we just have to focus on what lies ahead of us. Finishing third in a World Cup also commands a lot of respect so we’ll play the best hockey we can.”

India will face Spain in the 3rd/4th place playoff match on Saturday, 16th December 2023 at 1530hrs IST.

The Final of the tournament will take place on 16th December between Germany and France.

The matches will be broadcast on Viacom Sports 18 – 3 and Sports 18 – 1 HD, as well as live-streamed on JioCinema.

by Abhishek Shukla

New Zealand All Blacks Maintain Top Spot in Global Rugby Brand Valuation

Auckland, New Zealand: The New Zealand All Blacks continue to reign supreme off the pitch with a staggering brand value of USD 282 million (NZD 452 million), marking a 52% increase since the last World Cup. Despite facing increasing on-field competition, the All Blacks have retained their status as the world’s most valuable rugby team brand.

All Blacks: A Symbol of Tradition and Passion

Hugo Hensley, Head of Sports Services at Brand Finance, emphasized the importance of national rugby brands as symbols of tradition and passion. “Driven by sponsorship, merchandising, and passionate fans, the surge in brand value for teams like the All Blacks and Ireland Rugby showcases their power,” Hensley noted.

The All Blacks’ brand strength is unparalleled, with a Brand Strength Index (BSI) score of 88.9 out of 100 and a corresponding AAA rating. Their success is attributed to robust revenues from sponsorship and merchandising, solidifying their position as the world’s strongest rugby team brand.

England Rugby: Holding Strong at Second

England Rugby, with a 71% increase in brand value to USD 264 million (GBP 219 million), maintains its position as the second most valuable national rugby brand. England’s high total revenue and widespread popularity, coupled with the largest number of registered rugby players globally, contribute significantly to its brand value.

The popularity of rugby in England as a spectator sport, only behind football and cricket, and the country’s highest proportion of female rugby players, further bolster England Rugby’s brand strength.

France Rugby: Surging to the Top Three

France Rugby has made a significant leap, with an 84% increase in brand value to USD 159 million (EUR 154 million), now ranking third in both brand value and strength. The excitement around the upcoming home World Cup and the team’s outstanding performance, currently ranked world number two, have been key factors in this surge.

Ireland Rugby: Fastest-Growing Brand

Ireland Rugby, with a remarkable 94% growth in brand value to USD 150 million (EUR 145 million), has emerged as the fastest-growing brand in 2023. Following their 15th Six Nations win in March 2023, Ireland Rugby has overtaken Wales Rugby and South Africa Rugby, positioning themselves as the fourth most valuable national rugby team brand.

Conclusion

The New Zealand All Blacks’ continued dominance in brand value and strength reflects their deep-rooted connection with fans and successful commercial strategies. With the rise of teams like France and Ireland, the global rugby brand landscape is becoming increasingly competitive, promising an exciting future for the sport’s commercial growth and international appeal.

by Abhishek Shukla

Agent service fees reach all-time high in 2023

The total spending on club agent service fees has reached unprecedented heights in 2023, with a total outlay of USD 888.1 million compared to USD 623.2 million last year according to FIFA’s Football Agents in International Transfers Report. This represents an increase of 42.5% compared to the level of spending in 2022, and even surpasses the previous record from 2019 (USD 654.7 million) by more than one third.

By far, the largest proportion of all club agents were employed by clubs in Europe, which also account for the lion’s share (86.6%) of global spending on club agents. Similarly, European clubs employed 86.6% of all engaging-club agents and 82.6% of all releasing-club agents.

The largest amount of agent service fees were paid by clubs from England, with a combined total of more than USD 280 million. While not investing in releasing-club agents, Saudi Arabian clubs had the second-biggest spending on engaging-club agents with USD 86.0 million. Korea Republic had the greatest share of outgoing transfers with a releasing-club agent, with 31.6%.

The number of international transfers with an agent acting on behalf of the player reached a record high in 2023 with a total of 3,353 transfers. This corresponds to 15.4% of all transfers and represents an increase of 8.4% compared to 2022. For the first time ever, clubs in women’s professional football spent more than USD 1 million for the services of club agents, with a total outlay of just under USD 1.4 million. Club agents were present in a record number of 125 transfers, an increase of more than 20% compared to 2022.

The process for obtaining a licence and becoming a football agent under the FIFA Football Agent Regulations (FFAR) opened on 9 January 2023 and all individuals could apply for such a licence. During the period covered by the report (1 January 2023 to 30 November 2023), FIFA received 19,973 licensing applications. Out of the total number of exam applicants, 9,207 took the exam on one of two dates. The first exam was held on 19 April 2023, with testing locations at 138 member associations, and the second exam took place on 20 September 2023, with testing locations at 157 member associations. Out of the 9,207 people who sat the exam, 32.6% passed.

As part of its objective to bring more transparency to the football transfer system, FIFA publishes an annual report on football agents. For the first time, due to the adoption and entering into force of the new FFAR, the report not only presents extensive analyses of football agents’ activity in international transfers but also provides insightful information about the newly introduced licensing system.

by Abhishek Shukla

Indian women’s cricket team for the blind meets Harmanpreet Kaur, Amol Muzumdar after series win over Nepal

Mumbai (Maharashtra) [India], December 14: Indian Women’s Cricket Team for the Blind along with chairman of Cricket Association for the Blind in India (CABI) Dr Mahantesh G Kivadasannavar on Thursday met Harmanpreet Kaur, Rajeshwari Gayakwad, Jemimah Rodrigues, Renuka Singh Thakur and coach of Indian women’s team Amol Muzumdar here at the DY Patil Stadium in Navi Mumbai.

Indian women’s team is currently locking horns with England in the one-off Test here. On Thursday, Indian batters shone as the hosts scored 410 runs for the loss of seven wickets on Day One of the Only Test against England.

Following the conclusion of the day’s play, Harmanpreet Kaur, Rajeshwari Gayakwad, Jemimah Rodrigues, Renuka Singh Thakur and coach Amol Muzumdar took time to meet and appreciate the Indian women’s blind cricket team, currently engaged in the Fedfina Women’s Bilateral Cricket Series for the Blind 2023 against Nepal. The blind cricket team emerged victorious in the fourth T20 against Nepal, securing the bilateral series 3-1, with one match remaining.

Indian women’s cricket team for the blind on Thursday defeated Nepal in the fourth T20 and clinched the bilateral series 3-1 with one match to go. Harmanpreet, who is also the brand ambassador for the women’s cricket for the blind, Rajeshwari Gayakwad and Jemimah Rodrigues congratulated the Indian team for the win over Nepal and also for their gold medal win in IBSA World Games.

The meeting was a source of inspiration for the visually impaired cricketers, who were thrilled to interact with their role models. CABI chairman Mahantesh G Kivadasannavar described it as an “ecstatic moment” for the visually impaired cricketers.

“Our girls had the chance to sit and cheer for the Indian women’s team. When the Indian team hit the 400th run we were there cheering for our team. It was a delighted moment for the Blind Women’s cricket team. Harmanpreet was very happy to meet our visually impaired girls and was willing to extend all possible support,” Mahantesh G Kivadasannavar said in a statement.

Coming to the Nepal series, India had won the first two T20s but the visitors came back in the third game on Wednesday, denying India a series win. However, India on Thursday won the fourth T20 to clinch the series with 3-1 with one match to go. India and Nepal will now meet in the fifth T20 on Friday.

by Richard Miller (US)

Golden State Warriors Lead NBA with $1.5 Billion Brand Value Despite Playoff Setback

San Francisco, California: The Golden State Warriors, with a staggering brand value of $1.5 billion, continue to dominate the NBA landscape as the most valuable brand. This valuation places them significantly ahead of the second-ranked Los Angeles Lakers, valued at $842 million.

Warriors: A Blend of On-Court Excellence and Off-Court Strategy

Despite a playoff defeat by the Los Angeles Lakers in the Western Conference finals, the Warriors’ brand value remains exceptionally high. This resilience is attributed to record-breaking revenue from the previous season and a business strategy that extends beyond traditional basketball. Leveraging strategic partnerships in Silicon Valley, an enriched social media fan experience, and the state-of-the-art Chase Center, the Warriors have built a robust brand.

Under the leadership of Peter Guber and Joe Lacob, the team has made six NBA Finals appearances in the last eight seasons, underscoring a winning culture that is the bedrock of their brand strength. However, a 2.4-point drop in their Brand Strength Index (BSI) to 83.7 reflects the impact of their recent on-court performance.

Lakers: The Strongest NBA Brand

The Los Angeles Lakers hold the highest BSI score in the league at 86.8, a rise of 1.4 points from the previous year. Their resurgence into the playoffs, coupled with having LeBron James, who recently broke the NBA’s all-time leading scorer record, has significantly bolstered their brand value. James’ presence has enhanced the team’s competitive edge, fan engagement, and off-court business opportunities.

Celtics and Clippers: Rising in the Ranks

The Boston Celtics have ascended to the third spot with a brand value of $589 million. Their consistent performance in the Eastern Conference, despite a conference finals loss to the Miami Heat, contributes to their elevated position.

The Los Angeles Clippers, now valued at $455 million, have made a notable leap to fourth place. Their innovative ClipperVision streaming platform represents a significant evolution in the fan viewing experience, though its long-term impact on viewership and revenue remains to be seen.

Denver Nuggets: Champions on the Rise

The Denver Nuggets, following their historic championship victory in the 2022-23 season, have seen a substantial increase in both brand value and strength, now ranking 20th. The team’s success, propelled by Finals MVP Nikola Jokic and Jamal Murray, not only marks a triumph on the court but also signals a bright future for the franchise’s brand value.

Conclusion

The Golden State Warriors’ continued dominance in brand value, despite on-court challenges, reflects a successful blend of sporting excellence and strategic business initiatives. While the Lakers’ strength grows and new contenders like the Celtics and Clippers rise, the Nuggets’ championship win highlights the dynamic and evolving nature of brand values in the NBA. As the league progresses, these developments promise an exciting future for basketball’s commercial landscape.

by Abhishek Shukla

Blockbuster European Summer of Cricket in 2024 confirmed

 

Next year will see three new countries given the opportunity to host an ICC event for the first time, with Italy, Germany and Denmark joining seasoned hosts Scotland and Guernsey in a packed summer of ICC pathway cricket in Europe in 2024.

A record 30 countries will compete in the ICC Men’s T20 World Cup Europe Sub-Regional Qualifiers, with three tournaments happening between June and August in Italy, Germany and Guernsey.

During the same period, qualification for the ICC U19 Women’s T20 World Cup 2025 will be up for grabs as Scotland and Netherlands do battle in August, whilst eight countries will compete in the U19 Men’s Cricket World Cup Europe Division 2 Qualifier in Denmark on the road to the ICC U19 Men’s Cricket World Cup 2026.

T20 qualification heads to new venues

In a clear sign of the growth and expansion of cricket into new territories, Germany and Italy feature as first-time hosts in the ICC Men’s T20 World Cup qualification pathway. Both countries impressed at the recent Men’s T20 World Cup Europe Final, and are relishing the opportunity to deepen the connection with local fans and players by competing in an ICC tournament on home soil.

Severin Weiss, President of the Deutscher Cricket Bund said: “We are looking forward to hosting our first international tournament in July in Krefeld and Gelsenkirchen, which will bring new popularity and awareness to the sport in Germany. The recent landmark decision by the German Olympic Sports Confederation (DOSB) in Germany to accept the German Cricket Association as its 100th member alongside the inclusion of cricket in the Olympics in 2028 will see a major upswing in participation and awareness of the sport in Germany. Hosting this event in 2024 will be a great opportunity for us to showcase to Europe and the world what German cricket has to offer.”

Fabio Marabini, President of Federazione Cricket Italiana said: “It is with extreme pleasure that we acknowledge that our bid to host the 2024 ICC Men’s T20 World Cup Europe Sub Regional Qualifier has been successful. The event will take place in two of the best grounds in Italy located in Rome and Aprilia. Cricket Italy will make sure that the tournament is a great sporting event for all the participating countries. We are looking forward to hosting athletes, coaches and team staff from our European neighbours in Italy next summer.”

Andy Wright, ICC Regional Development Manager – Europe said: “We’re delighted to announce the schedule for the Europe Qualifiers for the ICC Men’s T20 World Cup 2026. This will, once again, be our biggest summer of cricket in Europe with no fewer than 30 countries entering the qualification pathway between June and August 2024. We’re also excited to be hosting these events in Germany and Italy for the first time and wish to thank the DCB and FCrI (Cricket Italy) for all their hard work to date. Taking the third qualifier to Guernsey is testament to the outstanding job they did in hosting our U19 Men’s CWC Europe Division 2 Qualifier back in 2022, and we’re pleased to be bringing men’s international cricket back to the Bailiwick.”

U19 pathway goes from strength to strength

Scotland will play host to the Netherlands as both teams compete in the ICC U19 Women’s T20 World Cup Europe Qualifier in August. With direct qualification to the 2025 edition of the global event on the line, the stakes will be high for both teams. Scotland will aim to replicate their success from the previous qualification campaign, when they secured qualification with a 3-0 series win over the same opposition to clinch a spot at the inaugural edition in South Africa in 2023. With a new generation coming through on both sides, odds will be even going into this tournament.

In July, Denmark will also debut as hosts of an ICC pathway event with the U19 Men’s Cricket World Cup Europe Division 2 Qualifier. With games being played in the 50-over format and eight teams competing, the event will have four grounds in operation across Copenhagen to accommodate an action-packed schedule. A minimum of two teams will progress from this event to the ICC U19 Men’s Cricket World Cup Europe Qualifier taking place in the summer of 2025.

Alex Olsen – CEO Cricket Denmark said: “It is a super exciting task for Danish Cricket to host the ICC U19 Men’s Cricket World Cup Europe Division 2 Qualifier in July 2024. We look forward to welcoming everyone to Denmark. Our lovely capital Copenhagen contains a number of excellent cricket grounds which will be the setting for the event. The young boys in our sport deserve the best and we will ensure that all the young participants have a positive experience they can remember for the rest of their lives.”

2024 Schedule of Events:

ICC Men’s T20 World Cup Sub-Regional Qualifier A

Host: Italy

Dates: 9-16 June 2024

Participating Teams; Italy, Portugal, Isle of Man, Austria, France, Romania, Luxembourg, Hungary, Turkiye, Israel

ICC Men’s T20 World Cup Sub-Regional Qualifier B

Host: Germany

Dates: 7-14 July 2024

Participating Teams; Jersey, Germany, Belgium, Norway, Switzerland, Sweden, Serbia, Gibraltar, Croatia, Slovenia

ICC Men’s T20 World Cup Sub-Regional Qualifier C

Host: Guernsey

Dates: 21-28 August 2024

Participating Teams; Spain, Guernsey, Denmark, Finland, Czech Republic, Malta, Cyprus, Bulgaria, Greece, Estonia

ICC U19 Men’s Cricket World Cup Europe Division 2 Qualifier

Host: Denmark

Dates: 24-30 July 2024

Participating Teams; Netherlands, Norway, Italy, Isle of Man, Denmark, Sweden, France, Belgium

ICC U19 Women’s T20 World Cup Europe Qualifier

Host: Scotland

Dates: 1-4 August 2024

Participating Teams; Scotland, Netherlands

 

by Abhishek Shukla

ISL: Kerala Blasters FC squeeze in three points against Punjab FC

New Delhi, 14 December 2023: Kerala Blasters FC sneaked past Punjab FC by a slight margin of 1-0 to secure an important victory at the Jawaharlal Nehru Stadium in New Delhi in the Indian Super League (ISL) 2023-24 tonight.

Kerala Blasters FC kept their first clean sheet in 10 away encounters as a neat defensive performance coupled with conversion of a spot-kick in the 51st minute handed the Kerala Blasters FC three points after a draw and a loss respectively in their last two games.

Punjab FC were on the move right from the offset. The Blasters appeared to have kept a conservative approach in the beginning, as they adjusted to a brief phase of the season in the absence of skipper Adrian Luna.

This resulted in the home team being brave in taking their chances, with Madih Talal, Krishnananda Singh, and Nikhil Prabhu coming close to break the deadlock in the first half. One of these moves was that when Prabhu and Talal interlinked, thanks to a cross by the latter that the defender squandered despite taking the shot from the middle of the 18-yard box.

Mohammed Aimen was the standout performer from the Punjab FC midfield tonight. Just before the half-time break, he had joined hands with Kwame Peprah by setting up a pass in the path of the striker that the 22-year-old shot off target.

Aimen though worked his way inside the box in the 50th minute to earn a foul though, that led to Dimitrios Diamantakos converting the subsequent spot-kick. With Luna injured out, Diamantakos had the onus to make this chance count. The Greek forward didn’t disappoint, slotting the ball in the middle of the net.

Punjab FC had a glimmer of hope with former NorthEast United FC forward Wilmar Jordan Gil coming off the bench to take a promising shot inside the box. The effort was well dealt with by an organised backline of the visitors, as the Tuskers sealed an important win.

Key Performer of the Match

Dimitrios Diamantakos (Kerala Blasters FC)

Diamantakos completed 20 passes, tackled twice, made one clearance, created a goal-scoring chance in addition to converting the important penalty to bag the three points for the Kerala Blasters FC.

What’s next for both teams?

Punjab FC will next host Chennaiyin FC on December 18, whereas Kerala Blasters FC will welcome Mumbai City FC for their coming clash on December 24.

Brief Scores

Punjab FC 0 – 1 Kerala Blasters FC (Dimitrios Diamantakos 51’)

by Abhishek Shukla

TPL: Bengal Wizards Reclaim Top Spot At The End Of Day 3 Of Season 5 Of The Tennis Premier League

Pune, 14th December 2023: The third day of season 5 of the the Tennis Premier League powered by Clear (TPL) witnessed hotly contested matches which featured blockbuster action.

The first fixture of Day 3 of season 5 of Tennis Premier League was kicked -off with Punjab Patriots going up against Gujarat Panthers. Conny Perrin of the Punjab Patriots clashed with Ekaterina Yashina of the Gujarat Panthers in the Women’s Single Category. The game ended in a 10-all draw. Digvijay Pratap Singh of the Punjab Patriots lost to Sumit Nagal of the Gujarat Panthers 7-13 in the Men’s Singles Category. Conny Perrin and Arjun Khade of the Punjab Patriots beat Ekaterina Yashina and Mukund Sashikumar of the Gujarat Panthers in the Mixed Doubles category as the game ended 11-9. The final game of the match was the Men’s Doubles Category, in which Digvijay Pratap Singh and  Arjun Khade of the Punjab Patriots took on Sumit Nagal and Mukund Sashikumar of the Gujarat Panthers. The game ended 9-11 in favour of the Gujarat Panthers. The Panthers emerged victorious from the match as it ended 37-43 in their favour. Sumit Nagal was adjudged to be the best player of the match as he led the charge for the Gujarat Panthers.

The second fixture of Day 3 saw the Mumbai Leon Army clash with the Hyderabad Strikers. The Co-owner of the Hyderabad Strikers, Rakul Preet Singh was present in the dugout cheering her team on. Sowjanya Bavisetti of Mumbai Leon Army lost to Ellen Perez of Hyderabad Strikers, 9-11, in the Women’s Singles Category. In the Men’s Singles Category,  Ernest Gulbis of the Mumbai Leon Army beat Niki Poonacha of Hyderabad Strikers, as the scores at the end of the match read 11-9. Sowjanya Bavisetti and Vijay Sundar Prashanth of the Mumbai Leon Army drew with  Ellen Perez and Saketh Myneni of the Hyderabad Strikers, in a 10-all draw in the Mixed Doubles category. Ernest Gulbis and Vijay Sundar Prashanth of Mumbai Leon Army beat Saketh Myneni and Niki Poonacha of Hyderabad Strikers, in the Men’s Doubles Category which was a closely contested affair that ended 11-9. Mumbai Leon Army edged past the Hyderabad Strikers as the match ended 41-39 in favour of the Mumbai team. Vijay Sundar Prashanth was awarded the player of the match for his brilliant performance in the Doubles.

The second last fixture of Day 3 was between the Pune Jaguars and the Bengal Wizards. The match started with the Women’s Singles Category, in which Diana Marcinkevica of Pune Jaguars lost to Maria Timofeeva from Bengal Wizards, in a clash that ended 7-13. Lukas Rosol of Pune Jaguars and Sriram Balaji of the Bengal Wizards went head-to-head in an entertaining Men’s Singles game that ended 11-9 in favour of the Czech Ace. It was followed by the Mixed Doubles game that saw Diana Marcinkevica and Rithvik Bollipalli of the Pune Jaguars lose convincingly to Maria Timofeeva and Anirudh Chandrasekar of the Bengal Wizards which ended 6-14. In the Men’s Doubles Category, Rithvik Bollipalli and Lukas Rosol of the Pune Jaguar took on  Sriram Balaji and Anirudh Chandrasekar of the Bengal Wizards. The Bengal Wizards duo came out on top with a score of 9-11. Bengal Wizards won the match, as it ended 33-47 in their favour. Anirudh Chandrasekar of the Bengal Wizards was awarded the player of the match award.

The last fixture of the day saw Delhi Binny’s Brigade go head-to-head against Bengaluru SG Mavericks. In the Women’s Singles, Sahaja Yamalapalli of  Delhi Binny’s Brigade lost to Arina Rodionova of Bengaluru SG Mavericks, 6-14. In the Men’s Singles Category, Dennis Novak of Delhi Binny’s Brigade defeated Ramkumar Ramanathan of the Bengaluru SG Mavericks, which ended 11-9. Sahaja Yamalapalli and Jeevan Nedunchezhiyan of the Delhi Binny’s Brigade took on  Arina Rodionova and Vishnu Vardhan from Bengaluru SG Mavericks in the Mixed Doubles category. The game ended 10-all as neither team came out on top. In the final game of Day 3, Jeevan Nedunchezhiyan and Dennis Novak of Delhi Binny’s Brigade went up against Ramkumar Ramanathan and Vishnu Vardhan from Bengaluru SG Mavericks in the Men’s Doubles Category. The game ended in a 9-11, in favour of the Mavericks. The Bengakur SG Mavericks came out on top in the match after it ended 36-44.  Ramkumar Ramanathan won the player of the match award for his performance for Bengaluru.

On Day 3 of the fourth season of Tennis Premier League spectators inside the stadiums and at home witnessed some enthralling clashes on the magnificent court of the Balewadi Stadium in Pune. Bengal Wizards re-took the top spot in the table after they closed out Day 3 with 129 points. Bengaluru SG Mavericks sat second in the tabel with 127 points. After an excellent Day 3, the Gujarat Panthers sat third in the league table with 123 points, and were closely followed by the Punjab Patriots in the fourth spot with 121 points. The Mumbai Leon Army and Hyderabad Strikers sat 5th and 6th respectively as both teams had amassed 119 points over the first three days of Season 5 of the Tennis Premier League. Delhi Binny’s Brigade sat seventh with 115 points, while the Pune Jaguars remained eight with 107 points.

All the action from the Tennis Premier League being held at Balewadi Stadium can be witnessed live on SONY TEN 2 starting from 4.30pm on the 15th of December 2023.

by Abhishek Shukla

Finalists for The Best FIFA Women’s Player, The Best FIFA Men’s Player and FIFA Puskás Award revealed

FIFA has announced the finalists for The Best FIFA Women’s Player, The Best FIFA Men’s Player, and the FIFA Puskás Award for the 2023 edition of The Best FIFA Football Awards™.

The finalists for The Best FIFA Women’s Player are (in alphabetical order):

  • Aitana Bonmatí              (Spain / FC Barcelona)
  • Linda Caicedo                (Colombia / Deportivo Cali Femenino / Real Madrid CF)
  • Jennifer Hermoso          (Spain / CF Pachuca Femenil)

The award recognises women’s football’s outstanding performer between 1 August 2022 to 20 August 2023, the date of the FIFA Women’s World Cup™ final.

A total of 16 players were initially nominated for The Best FIFA Women’s Player award, having been chosen by a panel of experts. From this shortlist, the three finalists have been selected by an international jury comprising: women’s national team coaches, women’s national team captains, football journalists, and fans who voted on FIFA’s official website.

The finalists for The Best FIFA Men’s Player, recognising the most outstanding performers in the men’s game from the period of 19 December 2022 to 20 August 2023 are (in alphabetical order):

  • Erling Haaland               (Norway / Manchester City FC)
  • Kylian Mbappé               (France / Paris Saint-Germain)
  • Lionel Messi                  (Argentina / Paris Saint-Germain / Club Internacional de Fútbol Miami)

A total of 12 players were initially nominated for The Best FIFA Men’s Player award, having been chosen by a panel of experts. As per their female counterparts, from this shortlist, the three finalists have been selected by an international jury comprising: men’s national team coaches, men’s national team captains, football journalists, and fans from all over the world registered on FIFA.com.

FIFA has also announced the three finalists for FIFA Puskás Award. The finalists are (in alphabetical order):

  • Julio Enciso                      (Paraguay / Brighton & Hove Albion FC)
  • Guilherme Madruga         (Brazil / Botafogo Futebol Clube)
  • Nuno Santos                    (Portugal / Sporting CP)

The prize is named after legendary Hungarian striker Ferenc Puskás and was last won by Polish Amputee footballer Marcin Oleksy’s bicycle kick.

A total of 11 goals were initially nominated for this edition of the FIFA Puskás Award. From this shortlist, the three finalists have been selected by fans who voted on FIFA’s official website, as well as expert panellists.

Julio Enciso’s goal was a thunderbolt right-foot strike from 25 yards. Guilherme Madruga executed a superb overhead kick from outside the area, while Nuno Santos makes the final three for his audacious left-foot rabona.

The winners of each respective award will be revealed at a London ceremony on Monday 15 January 2024. Next month’s ceremony will mark the third time that FIFA has held The Best FIFA Football Awards in London, after the 2017 and 2018 award ceremonies were staged in the city.

How were The Best FIFA Women’s Player Award and The Best Men’s Player Award finalists determined?

  • From the respective shortlists, each voter made their first, second and third choices for the prize.
  • Points were given to nominees depending on where they were placed (five points for first, three for second and one for third).
  • Nominated national team captains could not vote for themselves.
  • Selections from the four voting groups – coaches, captains, journalists, and fans – each counted for 25 per cent of the total vote, irrespective of the number of voters from each group.
  • The Best FIFA Women’s Player Award and The Best FIFA Men’s Player Award will be presented to the individual with the most points.
  • If finalists are tied on points, the award will be bestowed on the individual who has received the most first-choice selections.

How was the FIFA Puskás Award finalists determined?

  • From the 11-goal shortlist, each voter made their first, second and third choices for the prize.
  • Points were given to nominees depending on where they were placed (five points for first, three for second and one for third).
  • Selections from the two voting groups – fans and expert panellists – each counted for 50 per cent of the total vote, irrespective of the number of voters from each group.
  • The FIFA Puskás Award will be presented to the individual with the most points.
  • If finalists are tied on points, the award will be bestowed on the individual who has received the most first-choice selections.

The voting procedure is supervised by independent observers and detailed in the Rules of Allocation. Results will be published in full on FIFA.com following the awards ceremony on 15 January 2024.

by Abhishek Shukla

FIH Hockey Men’s Junior World Cup 2023: Indian Colts suffer heartbreaking 1-4 loss to Germany

Kuala Lumpur, 14th December 2023: The Indian Junior Men’s Hockey Team went down 1-4 in a hard-fought match against Germany in the Semi-Finals of the FIH Hockey Men’s Junior World Cup Malaysia 2023, here on Thursday. The Indian Team, led by Uttam Singh, will now play the loser of the second Semi-Final between France and Spain to be played later in the day.

 

The first quarter wasn’t short on action as the Indian Team was awarded two penalty corners within the first four minutes, but it was Germany that drew first blood with a goal from Ben Hasbach (8’). India were quick to equalize, courtesy of a brilliant field goal from Sudeep Chirmako (11’), as the first quarter ended with the score reading 1-1.

 

The second quarter was rather quiet. While India did have multiple opportunities in the form of penalty corners, they were unable to convert any into goals. Germany were awarded their first penalty corner of the match early in the last minute of the second quarter, and they made full use of it as Ben Hasbach (30’) netted his second goal. The score read 1-2 in favour of Germany with the teams heading in at halftime.

 

The Indian Team started the third quarter on the front foot and was rewarded for their aggressive approach as they won their eleventh penalty corner with six minutes left in the third quarter, but Germany managed to keep them from scoring. Paul Glander (41’) converted Germany’s second penalty corner to double the lead, taking the score to 1-3 at the end of the third quarter.

 

The Indians put pressure on the Germans in the 4th quarter but were unable to penetrate through their defense. India found hope in the form of two back-to-back penalty corners with less than ten minutes remaining in the game, but neither was converted as the German defenders were relentless. Florian Spirling (58’) scored Germany’s fourth goal with just a few minutes left on the clock to confirm their place in the Final as India ended up losing the game 1-4.

India will now battle it out for the third place when they play the loser of the second Semi-Final, where France is facing Spain, on 16th December at 1530hrs IST.

The matches will be broadcast on Viacom Sports 18 – 3 and Sports 18 – 1 HD, as well as live-streamed on JioCinema.