by Abhishek Shukla

PKL 10: Naveen Records Super 10 as Dabang Delhi K.C. Record Big Win Against Bengaluru Bulls

Bengaluru, 08th December 2023: The Dabang Delhi K.C. put on a masterclass to defeat Bengaluru Bulls 38-31 in the Pro Kabaddi League Season 10 at the Sree Kanteerava Stadium in Bengaluru on Friday. The Delhi Captain Naveen led the charge with 13 points, while his compatriot Ashu Malik scored 9 points in the match.

The Bulls and Dabang Delhi K.C. played out a neck-to-neck battle as they were locked at 3-3 in the 5th minute. However, the Delhi team tackled Vikash Kandola and inched ahead at 6-3 in the 8th minute. Raider Ashu Malik also upped his game as the Delhi-based franchise extended their lead further.Dabang Delhi K.C. continued to put relentless pressure on their opponents and eventually carried out an ALL OUT in the 12th minute to take a massive lead at 14-7 in the 15th minute. The Bulls pulled off a SUPER TACKLE on Malik in the 18th minute, but the Delhi side still held the lead at 17-12 at the end of the first half.

Saurabh Nandal tackled Naveen early in the second half and helped the Bulls reduce the gap between the two sides to three points at 17-20. Thereafter, Sushil picked up a raid point and Nandal tackled Malik, but the Delhi side managed to stay ahead at 23-20 in the 26th minute. After losing a bit of steam, the Delhi side regained the momentum and carried out an ALL OUT to take a decent lead at 29-23 in the 31st minute.

Bharat pulled off a magnificent raid, taking out Himmat Antil, Yogesh and Mohit, but the Delhi side kept their noses in front at 32-29 in the 33rd minute. Naveen effected a raid as Dabang Delhi continued to forge ahead at 36-30 in the 38th minute. Malik pulled off another raid in the dying minutes of the match as Dabang Delhi K.C. eventually registered a comprehensive victory.

by Abhishek Shukla

Indian Cricket Sensation Prithvi Shaw bats for Indian Volleyball

Bengaluru, 8th December 2023 – Renowned Indian cricketer Prithvi Shaw was in attendance to witness the exhilarating competition at the Men’s Volleyball Club World Championships 2023 here in Bengaluru today. Ahmedabad Defenders showcased their prowess on the court against the defending Champions, Sir Safety Perugia. The championships currently on-going in Bengaluru, delivered an exciting display of skill and sportsmanship.

Shaw, known for his exceptional cricketing abilities, is extending his support beyond the cricket field to back the Ahmedabad Defenders. His presence undoubtedly elevated the spirit of the team and inspired them to give their best performance.

“I’m thrilled to be here and lend my support to the Ahmedabad Defenders. Sports unite us, and I believe in cheering for excellence, regardless of the arena. I wish the team the very best and hope they make our country proud. This is an incredible opportunity for Indian Volleyball as the boys are playing against the best in the world and this will only help them gain more experience.” expressed Prithvi Shaw.

Fans and enthusiasts were excited to see Shaw grace the event with his presence. His attendance added an extra layer of excitement to an already anticipated championships.


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The tournament will go on till 10th of December at the Koramangala Indoor Stadium in Bengaluru. Ahmedabad Defenders will find themselves in Pool A, facing the defending champions, Sir Sicoma Perugia from Italy, and Brazil’s Minas Tênis Clube (Itambé Minas). In Pool B, Halkbank Spor Kulübü from Turkey, Sada Cruzeiro Volei from Brazil, and Japan’s Suntory Sunbirds are grouped.  
 
The match tickets can be purchased at BookMyShow.    
  
The Men’s Volleyball Club World Championships 2023 will be telecast live in India on Sony Sports Network across Sony Ten 1 & Sony Ten 3 channels and the broadcast will be shown globally on Volleyball World. Fans in India can also stream the tournament online on FanCode.

by Abhishek Shukla

Yonex-Sunrise Guwahati Masters: Malvika Bansod, Ashwini-Tanisha in semifinals

December 8, Guwahati: Singles star Malvika Bansod and women’s doubles combination of Ashwini Ponnappa and Tanisha Crasto registered contrasting victories to reach the semi-final of the Yonex-Sunrise Guwahati Masters Super 100 badminton tournament here on Friday.

The 22-year-old Malvika, the only Indian women left in the singles draw, defeated Malaysia’s Karupathevan Letshanaa of Malaysia 21-12, 21-16 while Ashwini and Tanisha saved four game points in the opening game before getting the better of Indonesia’s Jesita Putri Miantoro and Febi Setianingrum 22-20, 21-16 to make it to the last four stage.

Malvika depended on her strong defence and her ability to engage her opponent in longer rallies in the quarterfinal and will now face Thailand’s Lalinrat Chaiwan, who upset third seed Sung Shuo Yun 21-10, 16-21, 21-16, for a place in the final.

Speaking about her match, Malvika said she was prepared for Letshanaa’s attacking game. “My execution was quite well in the opening game and I managed to engage her in long rallies in the second to win.”

In the doubles category, Tanisha stayed on course for a double crown as she also reached the mixed doubles semifinals. She and Dhruv Kapila defeated Indonesia’s Amri Syahnawi and Winny Kandow 21-16, 21-17 in the quarterfinals.

The hosts will also have a pair in the men’s doubles semifinals after Hariharan Amsakarunan and R Ruban Kumar upset 6th seeds Kapila and Vishnuvardhan Goud 21-18, 9-21, 21-18 in an all-Indian quarterfinal.

They will now face the Chinese Taipei combination of Lin Bing-Wei and Su Ching Heng for a spot in the final.

However, India’s challenge in men’s singles came to an end after Karthikeyan Gulshan Kumar could not maintain the momentum after winning the first game and went down 14-21, 21-12, 21-9 in the quarterfinals.

by Abhishek Shukla

Volleyball Club World Championships – Halkbank Kulubu dominate Sada Cruzeiro to book semi-final berth from Pool B

Bengaluru, 8th December 2023: Turkey’s Halkbank Spor Kulubu came up with a solid overall performance to blank Sada Cruzeiro Volei of Brazil 3-0 in their last Pool B clash to reach the semi-finals of the Men’s Volleyball Club World Championships here on Friday.

Playing in the prestigious competition for the first time, Halkbank needed three full points against one of the most successful teams in the Club World Championships and the Turkish League leaders showed why they are such a dangerous side when their Dutch skipper Abdel-Aziz Nimir, French Outside Hitter Earvin Ngapeth and Canadian Perrin John Gordon come to party at the Koramangala Indoor Stadium here.

India is hosting the Club World Championships for the first time and the fans were treated to some high-quality volleyball from the Turkish giants.

Ngapeth (15 points), Nimir (14) and Perrin (12) shared bulk of the load as Halkbank completed a 26-24, 25-18, 28-26 win in 85 minutes to kick-off celebrations in the Turkish camp.

Halkbank finished second in Pool B with three points behind another first-timers Suntory Sunbirds of Japan who had sealed their semi-final berth on Thursday after snatching a point during their 2-3 loss against Sada. They had defeated Halkbank 3-0 on the opening day of competition to finish with 4 points.

Halkbank’s only chance to make it to the last four stage depended on beating four-time champions Sada without conceding more than a set and the Turkish outfit started the match meaning business.

Nimir and Ngapeth were on target in the first three points but Sada kept pace with their opponents and were in lead for a major part of the opening set till Halkbank bagged three straight points to regain the advantage at 23-22.

Sada’s Cuban Outside Hitter Miguel Lopez kept them in the hunt with a quality spike but Dogukan Ulu came up with a drop to earn his team a second set point and Lopez sent his spike out to hand the advantage to Halkbank.

The Turkish side was clearly head and shoulders above their opponents in the second and third set as the trio of Nimir, Ngapeth and Perrin kept Sada on the backfoot with their powerful spikes and Ulu and setter Micah Ma’a came up with deceptive drops and some high-quality blocks to leave Sada stranded.

The Brazilians did throw everything at Halkbank in the third set and and saved five match points before a solid block from Perrin ended the error-ridden challenge of Sada.

The tournament will go on till 10th of December at the Koramangala Indoor Stadium in Bengaluru. Ahmedabad Defenders will find themselves in Pool A, facing the defending champions, Sir Sicoma Perugia from Italy, and Brazil’s Minas Tênis Clube (Itambé Minas). In Pool B, Halkbank Spor Kulübü from Turkey, Sada Cruzeiro Volei from Brazil, and Japan’s Suntory Sunbirds are grouped.  

The match tickets can be purchased at BookMyShow.    

The Men’s Volleyball Club World Championships 2023 will be telecast live in India on Sony Sports Network across Sony Ten 1 & Sony Ten 3 channels and the broadcast will be shown globally on Volleyball World. Fans in India can also stream the tournament online on FanCode.

by Abhishek Shukla

‘Special’ Ashok seeks to lift Haryana with powerful Khelo India show

New Delhi, 8th December 2023: A career-threatening injury at the Asian Para Games in 2018 almost ended para powerlifter Ashok’s hopes of standing on the podium for India at a major event. But it was his sheer guts and never-say-die attitude that helped him realise his dream four years later at the Hangzhou Asian Para Games recently where he won a bronze medal.

Now, Ashok is eager and all-set to take part in the first ever Khelo India Para Games and show what determination and faith in one’s own abilities can bring to the fore. Representing the Haryana state, home to several Olympic medallists including golden boy Neeraj Chopra,  Ashok will join a mega contingent of 243 para athletes who are all-set to put up a grand show of perseverance and ensure Haryana finishes on the top at the first-ever Khelo India Para Games 2023 scheduled to begin in New Delhi from this Sunday, 10th December 2023.

“Since the day Khelo India first edition was held in 2018, all para-athletes used to think when will we get chance to be part of Khelo India Games. Finally the day has come. Representing India at international level is the ultimate dream for any athlete, but such has been the buzz around Khelo India Games that we all are looking forward to be part of it,” says an upbeat Ashok.

A victim of spurious polio drop, Ashok’s legs were severely affected resulting in him being confined to a wheelchair very early in his childhood. His interest in powerlifting stemmed from his desire to have a good physique like many Bollywood actors. He says, “I used to see Salman Khan, the movie Rambo (Sylvester Stallone), Sanjay Dutt and felt like I must also have a physique like them. There was nothing that I could do with my lower body, but I wanted to really build my upper body.”

Accompanied by his friends, Ashok joined a gym but often became a subject of laughter. Many ridiculed him for his disability. But Ashok never gave up. Very soon he started lifting heavier weights compared to his fellow able-bodied gym mates. This egged him on to take the sport seriously and started representing his state at the National level tournament.

But his elevation as a para-lifter was deterred by a career-threatening injury. In 2018, at the Para-Asian Games in Jakarta, Indonesia, Ashok suffered a severe hand injury. His injury was such that both his radius and ulna bones were crushed and protruded out of his skin. After examining Ashok, the doctors opined that his career in para sports was over.

“The doctors told me that you will never be able to lift anything heavier than one kilogram and that my sports career was over. I was totally shattered as there was nothing, I had done in my life apart from power-lifting,” says Ashok remembering those gloomy days.

His injury was not the only setback Ashok faced that year. Tragically, his father had expired just months before the Asian Para Games and the financial responsibility to take care of his family had fallen on his shoulders. But his mother and coaches continued to back his dreams of winning a medal for India in powerlifting.

“Ashok is a very humble boy. He is very much connected to his roots. I don’t think any other athlete could have dreamed to take the sport again after such freak accident. I could see his bone coming out of skin but it is his sheer determination and mother’s prayers that he has not only come back but come back with a bang,” says J P Singh, Chief Coach, Para Powerlifting of India.

Para Power-lifting events start from 12th of December, 2023 at Delhi’s JLN Stadium

by Abhishek Shukla

PKL 10: We Executed Our Plans Perfectly, Win Against Gujarat Giants Will Motivate Players Further, Says Patna Pirates Coach Narender Redu

Bengaluru, 8th December, 2023: The opening leg of the 10th Season of Pro Kabaddi League ended with a bang as the Patna Pirates put on a superb display, to bring the Gujarat Giants’ three-match winning streak to a screeching halt. It was expected to be a classic, and both sides ensured they didn’t disappoint, matching each other blow for blow.

Reflecting on the closely contested game, Patna Pirates coach, Narender Redu, said, “The match was a very tough game, and it went down to the wire. The Gujarat Giants are a good team, but we stuck to our plans, and our raiders and defenders executed things well, which helped our cause.”

The Patna Pirates came away with a 100% record from the opening leg, winning both their games in Ahmedabad. Coach Redu further added that the win against the Fazel Atrachali led side, the best in the opening leg, would help the Patna Pirates as the tournaments progresses.

He said, “The Gujarat Giants did well in their backyard, and were high on confidence after a hat-trick of wins. However, the win for the Patna Pirates is a big deal, because we now know we can take on the best, and this will give my team a lot of confidence in the upcoming weeks of the 10th Season of PKL. This will be a huge motivating factor going ahead.”

Preview for Saturday’s Games

Match 14, Day 2 in Bengaluru, will pit the home team, Bengaluru Bulls against the Haryana Steelers. Neither side have had a good start to the season and will be looking to build some momentum. The Bengaluru Bulls have Vikas Kandola, Bharat and Neeraj Narwal in their ranks, all of whom will be hoping to put on a show for their home fans. The Haryana Steelers aren’t going to have it easy.

The second game will be a clash of the titans – Pardeep Narwal and the U.P. Yoddhas taking on Pawan Sehrawat’s Telugu Titans. Both the ace raiders have had slow starts to their season so far, and will hope to rise to the occasion. While Pardeep and U.P Yoddhas comprehensively defeated the Haryana Steelers in their second game, the Telugu Titans are yet to register a win after 2 games.

by Abhishek Shukla

London set to host The Best FIFA Football Awards on 15 January 2024

The planet’s top players, coaches, fans, goals, and acts of fair play will be recognised in London, England when the eighth edition of The Best FIFA Football Awards™ are held in one of the world’s most passionate football cities.

On Monday 15 January 2024 members of the global football family will gather for a glittering ceremony to honour outstanding members of the world’s most popular sport.

Next month’s event will mark the third time that FIFA has held The Best FIFA Football Awards in London, after the 2016 and 2017 award ceremonies were staged in the city.

The nominees for eight of The Best awards were announced in September 2023. From these shortlists, three finalists in a majority of categories have been selected by an international jury comprising of four groups: national team coaches, national team captains, specialist journalists, and fans who voted on FIFA’s official website. Over one million fan votes were recorded worldwide.

Selections from the four voting groups – coaches, captains, journalists, and fans – each count for 25 per cent of the total vote, irrespective of the number of voters from each group.

FIFA will announce the finalists for key award categories over the coming weeks.

The following eleven awards will be presented at the ceremony:

  • The Best FIFA Women’s Player
  • The Best FIFA Men’s Player
  • The Best FIFA Women’s Coach
  • The Best FIFA Men’s Coach
  • The Best FIFA Women’s Goalkeeper
  • The Best FIFA Men’s Goalkeeper
  • FIFA Puskás Award (awarded for the best goal of the year)
  • FIFA Fan Award
  • FIFA Fair Play Award
  • FIFA FIFPRO Women’s World 11
  • FIFA FIFPRO Men’s World 11
by Abhishek Shukla

ISL:  Punjab FC continue their quest for a first ISL win as they take on hosts East Bengal FC

Kolkata, December 08: Clash of Titans in the ISL – Punjab FC Eyes Maiden Win Against East Bengal FC

As the Indian Super League (ISL) 2023-24 season progresses, the football fraternity turns its attention to a thrilling encounter set for December 9, Saturday, at the Salt Lake Stadium in Kolkata. Punjab FC, still in pursuit of their first win this season, faces a formidable challenge against East Bengal FC, a team riding high on their recent record-breaking victory against NorthEast United FC.

East Bengal FC: A Force Rejuvenated

Under the guidance of Carles Cuadrat, East Bengal FC has shown remarkable improvement, not just in the domestic players’ performances but also in their exhilarating style of play. Their journey to the Durand Cup final, and a bright start to the ISL season, highlights a team moving in the right direction. The team’s morale is soaring after their dominant 5-0 win over NorthEast United FC, a performance that not only showcased their prowess but also rallied the passionate Kolkata fans behind them.

Punjab FC: The Bold Debutants

On the other side, Punjab FC, the ISL debutants, have displayed commendable tenacity. Their recent match against Bengaluru FC was a testament to their attacking prowess, with the team netting three goals in the first half. However, Punjab FC’s challenge lies in their defensive strategy and managing the game’s tempo, crucial factors that could determine their fate in the upcoming match.

What’s at Stake?

East Bengal FC aims to build on their spectacular victory and consolidate their position in the league. They have started the ISL season with a positive goal difference (+3) and the highest points tally at this stage in their ISL history. With a technical improvement evident in their gameplay, they look forward to maximizing their home advantage against Punjab FC.

Punjab FC, still acclimatizing to the ISL’s intensity, can draw confidence from their performance against Bengaluru FC. Their aggressive approach and fearless gameplay could be key against East Bengal FC, as they seek their inaugural ISL victory.

Key Players to Watch

Nandhakumar Sekar (East Bengal FC) has been a revelation this season, with his superb form evident in the last match where he scored twice and provided an assist. His coordination with fellow players, like Mahesh Singh, has been instrumental in strengthening East Bengal FC’s attack.

Juan Mera (Punjab FC) has emerged as a creative force, excelling in both offensive and defensive roles. His impressive dribbling skills and ability to create scoring opportunities will be crucial for Punjab FC’s aspirations.

Head-to-Head and Trivia

This match marks the first ISL encounter between these two teams. An interesting stat is Punjab FC’s Khaiminthang Lhungdim ranking third in the league for most tackles won this season.

Team Talk

Carles Cuadrat of East Bengal FC acknowledges the need for consistent performance, while Staikos Vergetis of Punjab FC emphasizes learning from past mistakes for future matches.

Where to Watch

The match promises to be a spectacle for football fans, available in multiple languages across various channels, including Sports18 Khel, Sports18 1 SD & HD, Sports18 3 SD, VH1 SD & HD, Surya Movies, and DD Bangla. Additionally, the match will be streamed and highlighted on OneFootball, reaching audiences in over 190 countries.

This encounter is more than just a game; it’s a narrative of aspiration, determination, and the relentless pursuit of glory in the world of Indian football.

by Abhishek Shukla

Finalists Delhi Capitals look to add depth to their squad at 2024 WPL Auction

New Delhi, 08 December 2023: JSW-GMR co-owned Delhi Capitals are all geared up to strengthen their squad in the WPL Auction 2024, set to be held in Mumbai on Saturday. The Delhi-based franchise, which has retained 15 players, has to acquire three players in the Auction to complete their squad for WPL 2024, and has a remaining purse of  INR 2.25 crore ahead of the Auction.

Speaking ahead of the Auction, Head Coach Jonathan Batty said, “We want to improve the depth of the squad. We did really well in last year’s Auction and constructed a good 18-player squad. We’ll just look to make our current squad slightly better in the upcoming Auction. The coaching group has had a few discussions on the team we want to have and we are excited to go into the Auction.”

Batty also expressed that the WPL has set the standard for all the other women’s tournaments in the world, “We witnessed a great quality of cricket in the last edition of the Women’s Premier League. The best players in the world were in the tournament. We saw some great matches and scores. This tournament is the benchmark for all the other women’s tournaments in the world.”

When asked about the impact of the WPL, Assistant Coach Hemlata Kala said, “There’s a lot of excitement among the women cricketers after the advent of the Women’s Premier League. All players want to be a part of the tournament. The first season of the WPL has had a positive impact on women’s cricket. And we can see that with the Indian team doing well in T20s in recent months. The players have also improved their skills in power-hitting and fielding.”

Please find below the names of the players retained by the Delhi Capitals for WPL 2024:

Overseas Players: Meg Lanning (C), Jess Jonassen, Marizanne Kapp, Alice Capsey, Laura Harris.

Indian Players: Jemimah Rodrigues, Shafali Verma, Shikha Pandey, Poonam Yadav, Radha Yadav, Arundhati Reddy, Taniyaa Bhatia, Minnu Mani, Sneha Deepthi, Titas Sadhu.

by Abhishek Shukla

ICC Player of the Month contenders for November revealed

The International Cricket Council (ICC) has today named the shortlists of contenders in line for the ICC Men’s and Women’s Player of the Month awards from November’s international contests.

The ICC Men’s Player of the Month shortlist features two of Australia’s key performers as they secured their sixth Men’s Cricket World Cup crown, and one of India’s record-breaking strike bowlers.

Travis Head wrote himself into World Cup legend during November courtesy of two match-winning performances in the semi-final and final of the ICC Men’s Cricket World Cup to earn his first nomination since June. Similarly, Glenn Maxwell grabbed the headlines with an unforgettable innings to seal qualification through to the knockout stages. Completing the lineup of nominees is India’s Mohammed Shami, whose inspired bowling performances saw India blitz their opponents on the way to the final.

Three figures from the see-saw battle between Bangladesh and Pakistan comprise the shortlist for the ICC Women’s Player of the Month for November.

Bangladesh left arm spinner Nahida Akter celebrates her second successive nomination for the Women’s Player of the Month after more wicket-taking heroics in her side’s ODI series triumph against Pakistan. Compatriot Fargana Hoque joins her on the shortlist after starring with the bat, notching valuable runs in the second and third encounters. The final name on the list is Pakistan’s Sadia Iqbal, nominated for the first time thanks to her economical spells and an impressive performance in the first match.

An independent ICC Voting Academy* and fans around the world will now be invited to cast their votes to decide the winners, which will be announced next week. Fans registered at icc-cricket.com/awards will be able to vote for their favourite performers until Saturday.

ICC Men’s Player of the Month Nominees for November:

Travis Head (AUS)

Head is nominated for the Men’s Player of the Month for the first time since his match-winning contributions helped Australia clinch the ICC World Test Championship Final in June. A similar story unfolded in India, culminating in two Player of the Match performances in the knockout stages. South Africa were thwarted by Head’s brilliance with bat and ball in the semi-final in Kolkata; the spinner taking the key wickets of Heinrich Klaasen and Marco Jansen before top scoring with 62 in 48 balls in the thrilling chase. His crowning glory however came in Ahmedabad. Staring at 241 for victory, Head hit a sparkling 137 in 120 balls to see his side home at a canter amid jubilant celebrations.

Glenn Maxwell (AUS)

The Australian veteran is shortlisted for the first time after a prolific November, which included arguably one of the great World Cup performances against Afghanistan in Mumbai. Chasing down 292 for victory after being 91 for seven, Maxwell smashed 31 boundaries in his unbeaten 201 to seal Australia’s safe passage to the knockout stages. Fast forward to the final, and Maxwell again made key contributions, bowling a disciplined spell and removing the threat of Rohit Sharma before hitting the winning runs. Not done there, Maxwell also starred in the subsequent T20I matches against India, hitting 104 not out in 48 balls in the third encounter in Guwahati.

Mohammed Shami (IND)

Shami topped the wicket-taking charts at the ICC Men’s Cricket World Cup 2023, and led India’s bowling attack in fine fashion with a number of scintillating displays during the month. He started November with a Player of the Match performance against Sri Lanka in Mumbai, tearing through their batting lineup with sterling figures of five for 18. His highlight came in the semi-final victory over New Zealand though, where the pacer took seven wickets for 57 runs, booking the home team’s ticket to the Final. During the calendar month, Shami took 15 wickets at a remarkable average of 12.06.Nominees for the ICC Women's Player of the Month for November 2023

Nominees for the ICC Women’s Player of the Month for November 2023

ICC Women’s Player of the Month Nominees for November:

Nahida Akter (BAN)

Akter is named on the shortlist for the second successive month after her performances guided Bangladesh to a 2-1 victory over Pakistan in Mirpur. Nominated in October for her T20I endeavours, this time she conquered in ODIs – Akter winning the Player of the Series award with seven wickets across the three matchups at an average of 14.14, taking three for 30 in the first match and three for 26 in the decisive final fixture.

Fargana Hoque (BAN)

With 110 runs in the victorious ODI series, Hoque earns her inaugural nomination for the ICC Women’s Player of the Month. The opener played a key role in levelling the series with a valuable 40 runs in the second outing in addition to a catch and a run out in the field as Bangladesh won in the Super Over. The series was won when Hoque top-scored in the third match with a controlled score of 62 to chase down the target and seal the triumph.

Sadia Iqbal (PAK)

The left-arm spinner was among the wickets once more during Pakistan’s visit to Bangladesh. Despite falling short of series victory, Iqbal impressed with economical wicket taking spells in the early exchanges. The first match was a particular highlight for the 28-year-old, her nine overs going for 13 runs with four wickets falling. This Player of the Match display was followed by another two wicket-haul, and Iqbal ended the month with six wickets at 12.50 and an economy rate of 2.58.

The ICC Player of the Month Voting Process: 

The three nominees for either category are shortlisted based on performances from the first to the last day of each calendar month. The shortlist is then voted on by the independent ICC Voting Academy* and fans around the world. The ICC Voting Academy comprises prominent members of the cricket fraternity including well-known journalists, former players, broadcasters and members of the ICC Hall of Fame. The Voting Academy submit their votes by email and hold a 90 per cent share of the vote. Fans registered with the ICC can vote via the ICC website, accounting for the remaining 10 per cent. Winners are announced every second Monday of the month on ICC’s digital channels. 

Voting Academy for ICC Player of the Month October 2023: 

Afghanistan: Hameed Qayoomi and Javed Hamim; Australia: Scott Bailey and Lisa Sthalekar; Bangladesh: Mohammad Sekander Ali and Md Ariful Islam Roney; England: Elizabeth Ammon and Lydia Greenway; Ireland: Ger Siggins and Clare Shillington; India: S Gomesh and Irfan Pathan; New Zealand: Merryn Anderson and Craig Cumming; Pakistan: Sawera Pasha and Sana Mir; South Africa: Zaahier Adams and Ashwell Prince; Sri Lanka: Azzam Ameen and Farveez Maharoof; West Indies: Daren Ganga and Stacy Ann King; Zimbabwe: Daniel Nhakaniso and Grant Flower; Others: Ajit Vijaykumar and Dirk Nannes.

by Abhishek Shukla

Day 6 Results: 1st Hockey India Sub Junior Men Academy Championship 2023 – (Zone A) 

New Delhi, 8th December, 2023: Day 6 of the 1st Hockey India Sub Junior Men Academy Championship 2023 – (Zone A) witnessed Roundglass Punjab Hockey Club Academy win their match in the Sub Junior Category to top Pool B and qualify for the Semi-Finals.    

Roundglass Punjab Hockey Club Academy wins three in a row:  

In the Sub Junior Category, Roundglass Punjab Hockey Club Academy defeated Ghumanhera Riser’s Academy 10-1. Ghumanhera Riser’s Academy’s Yuvraj Singh (6’) scored the opening goal of the match but that was the only moment of glory they found in the game as Roundglass Punjab Hockey Club Academy fired in 10 goals thereafter. The goals came from Amandeep (14’, 47’, 49’), Sunny (36’, 60’), Charanjeet Singh (8’), Gurjot Singh (11’), Samuel (16’), Rajbhar Sajan (27’) and Varinder Singh (51’) as RHA went on to top Pool B and qualify for the Semis. Despite the loss, Ghumanhera Riser’s Academy qualified for the Semis, having finished second in their Pool.  

Sub Junior Category Semi-Finals line-up (to be played on 9th December): 

1st Semi-Final: HAR Hockey Academy vs Ghumanhera Riser’s Academy 

2nd Semi-Final: Roundglass Punjab Hockey Club Academy vs Raja Karan Hockey Academy 

by Abhishek Shukla

BCCI Unveils Committee for Women’s Premier League

New Delhi: The Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI) has taken a significant step towards enhancing women’s cricket by announcing the formation of a prestigious committee to oversee the Women’s Premier League (WPL). This move is seen as a crucial development in the growth and promotion of women’s cricket in India.

The committee, which comprises experienced cricket administrators and advocates for women’s sports, is tasked with guiding the WPL to new heights. The members of this committee are:

  • Mr. Roger Binny – Chairperson
  • Mr. Jay Shah – Convenor
  • Mr. Arun Dhumal – IPL Chairperson
  • Mr. Rajeev Shukla – BCCI Vice-President
  • Mr. Ashish Shelar – BCCI Honorary Treasurer
  • Mr. Devajit Saikia – BCCI Honorary Joint Secretary
  • Mrs. Madhumati Lele
  • Mr. Prabhtej Bhatia

This committee represents a diverse range of expertise and experience, underscoring the BCCI’s commitment to fostering a holistic growth environment for women’s cricket. Their collective experience is expected to be instrumental in shaping the direction and success of the Women’s Premier League.

The Women’s Premier League aims to mirror the success of the Indian Premier League (IPL) for men, providing a platform to showcase and nurture female cricketing talent. The committee’s focus will be on establishing a strong framework for the league, ensuring that it meets international standards of competitiveness and organization.

The BCCI’s initiative to launch the Women’s Premier League with such a robust guiding committee is a reflection of the increasing recognition and importance of women’s cricket in India. It marks a significant step toward gender equality in sports and sets the stage for further developmental initiatives in women’s cricket.

With the establishment of the WPL, the future of women’s cricket in India looks promising, offering exciting prospects for players and fans. The league is expected to play a pivotal role in showcasing the talent and skill of women cricketers, contributing to the overall development of the sport.

by Abhishek Shukla

Reliance Foundation, AIFF come together to conduct IWL Match Official Workshop in Mumbai

The Reliance Foundation Youth Sports (RFYS), in collaboration with the All India Football Federation (AIFF), conducted a two-day technical preparation program for the Indian Women’s League (IWL) 2023-24 match officials at the Jio Institute in Mumbai on December 4-5, 2023. Attended by 24 referees and six match officials from six AIFF centres across the country, the workshop aimed at up-skilling the personnel, and thus enhancing their on-field performances for the upcoming IWL season beginning on December 8, Friday.

Conducted by AIFF’s Chief Refereeing Officer Mr. Trevor Kettle, the workshop involved assessing the qualities of the concerned match officials across various parameters and improving the same through one-on-one sessions with them.

The motive of the program was to take tangible efforts towards enhancing the participation of female referees and match officials in Indian football, so as to bring greater gender parity in the sport within the country, which symbolises one of the premier objectives of the on-going RFYS 2023-24 campaign as well. Up-skilling of female coaches and match officials is one of the key objectives of the current season. RFYS has been taking tangible efforts to increase the participation of females both on and off the field, with the introduction of the U-15 girls’ football category being one of the steps for the same.

One of the attendees in the workshop was India’s first referee to officiate in a FIFA World event (U-17 World Cup final in Jordan, 2016), Uvena Fernandes, who is also an Indian Air Force (IAF) official. A former India international footballer, Fernandes  later got inducted in the IAF and has been an Air Traffic Controller (ATC).

Despite having been refereeing for two decades now, Fernandes continues to seek opportunities that can help her improve herself. “The topics that were covered in this session were very fruitful. We are learning what we haven’t learnt before. The IWL Match Official Workshop organised by Reliance Foundation and AIFF will immensely help upcoming referees in India. I would like to thank Reliance Foundation, AIFF and IWL for giving us this opportunity to be here and attend this program. I hope that more such programs take place for the benefit of female match officials in India,” she said.

Fernandes turned back the clock to recollect her initiation into the sport. She first started off as a player, representing Goa at the state level for nearly a decade before representing the Indian team in the 2003 Women’s AFC Championship. Her switch to the IAF meant that she couldn’t dedicate enough time to her playing career, which is why she switched to become a referee in order to continue being associated with the sport. 

“I have been a mother for 10 years and a referee for 20 years, having started my career in that in 2003. I have been in the FIFA panel for the last 10 years and I am the first Indian to officiate any FIFA World Cup final match (U-17 finals in Jordan, 2016),” Fernandes said.

“I never planned to join the Indian Air Force (IAF). I had to go to the India camp, but I had an injury so I couldn’t go there. Thereafter, I had to go to the military base to officiate, and there I liked the entire way it was. I asked them how I could join the IAF or the Indian Army. They asked me to apply through the newspaper advertisements. I applied in both the Army and the Air Force, but the joining letter of the Air Force came first, so I joined them. I didn’t continue my playing career after joining the IAF, because I am an air traffic controller. So, I have to dedicate my time to my profession. But, I never gave up refereeing, because I wanted to be connected with football,” Fernandes continued.

A similar two-day workshop, attended by 32 officials and headed by Mr. Kettle, was held from March 23-24 in Kolkata earlier this year. That program was attended by referees from six AIFF centres, namely: Jamshedpur, Kharagpur, Aizawl, Hyderabad, Shillong, and Kolkata. Through such enterprising initiatives, Reliance Foundation continues to reiterate and act upon its commitment to act towards amplifying the presence and active involvement of women across sports.

by Abhishek Shukla

AFC eAsian Cup set to debut at Asian Cup 2023

The Asian Football Confederation (AFC) will unveil the inaugural edition of the AFC eAsian Cup, in conjunction with the AFC Asian Cup Qatar 2023™, from February 1 to 5, 2024.

In an exciting fusion of the traditional and digital, the AFC eAsian Cup marks the Confederation’s first foray into the world of esports, reinforcing its desire to engage further with a new generation of football fans in a cutting-edge celebration of the sport.

The AFC eAsian Cup not only adds a futuristic and technologically advanced dimension to the AFC Asian Cup Qatar 2023™, but also reflects the Confederation’s proactive approach toward embracing innovations that enhance the overall footballing experience.

Taking place in the Qatari capital city of Doha, the event will feature 20 AFC Member Associations, who are competing in the latest edition of the AFC’s flagship men’s national team competition, the AFC Asian Cup™ (12 January–10 February 2024).

With this edition of the Continental showpiece poised to be the grandest celebration of Asian football to date, the introduction of the AFC eAsian Cup promises to contribute significantly to the festive atmosphere, underscoring the AFC’s commitment to creating a dynamic and inclusive football community across the Continent.

by Abhishek Shukla

PKL Season 10:Gujarat Giants Emerge As The Best Team In Blockbuster Ahmedabad Leg; Bengaluru Leg Starts Today

Ahmedabad, 08th December 2023: The kabaddi crazy fans in Ahmedabad waited for four years to watch their team in action in their own city and the Giants didn’t disappoint. Led by the ferocious Fazel Atrachali and guided by one of the most successful coaches in the Pro Kabaddi League – Ram Mehar Singh, the home team registered threevictories in four matches. 

After a never-done-before launch press conference on a cruise at the Sabarmati River, the first leg of the tenth season witnessed the attendance of several dignitaries including Secretary of the BCCI – Jay Shah, Country Manager & President, Disney Star – K Madhavan, owner of the Jaipur Pink Panthers – Abhishek Bachchan, actor Manoj Bajpayee, Governor of Gujarat – Acharya Devvrat and Swami Ramdev among others.  

Under the watchful eyes of the eminent dignitaries, the Gujarat Giants’ young raiders Sonu and Rakesh shone in the limelight. Sonu picked up 33 points, while Rakesh recorded 26 points to help the home side complete the Ahmedabad leg at the top of the table with 16 points. Moreover, Sonu and Rakesh received tremendous support from their Captain Fazel Atrachali (8 tackle points) and Sombir (13 tackle points) in the defence unit. Furthermore, Atrachali completed 100 matches as Captain this season and the first leg of this year’s edition also witnessed the Hi-Flyer Pawan Sehrawat record his 1000th raid point. 

The kabaddi lovers in Ahmedabad were served with several high-octane clashes. The Bengal Warriors led at 23-15 in the second half against the Bengaluru Bulls on 04 December 2023, however, the Bulls forged a magnificent comeback to make it 28-28 in the 37th minute. But the Warriors held their nerve and emerged triumphant with the scoreline reading 32-30 in the end. 

U Mumba and Gujarat Giants also played out a riveting contest. They were on level terms going into the dying minutes of the match, however, Sonu stood tall and pulled off a fantastic raid to help his side win the match 39-37 on 05 December 2023.  

Speaking about the very successful Ahmedabad leg as a team and host, Sanjay Adesara, Chief Business Officer (CBO), Adani Sportsline said, “Ahmedabad has absolutely set the trend in terms of how the fans cheer on the teams in the 10th season of the Pro Kabaddi League, and our very own Gujarat Giants have also raised the bar for the performances on the mat. We are delighted to have been the city to kick start this special edition of the tournament, and this week has also helped further popularise Kabaddi in Gujarat, as more and more people have turned their attention to the sport. We would like to wish everyone the very best as the caravan moves to Bangalore. Ahmedabad has well and truly made its presence felt on the big stage yet again, and we look forward to more weeks like this.” 

After six days of dynamical clashes in Ahmedabad, the PKL season 10 will move to the Garden City from 08 December 2023. The fans in Bengaluru are all geared up to welcome their team and help them to get on board in PKL season 10 at the Sree Kanteerava Stadium. The Kannada film superstar Kiccha Sudeep will also grace the stadium with his presence on the opening day of the Bengaluru leg.  

When asked about PKL returning to Bengaluru, Kirthi Muralikrishnan, CEO, Bengaluru Bulls said, “Bengaluru has always been a sports crazy city and we are certain that the fans will turn up in large numbers to showcase their support for kabaddi. The energy in the stadium is always electric and we can’t wait to play in front of our home fans. We are eagerly looking forward to attain the momentum as a team in the Bengaluru leg.” 

Meanwhile, the Head Sports Leagues, Mashal Sports and League Commissioner, Pro Kabaddi League Mr. Anupam Goswami said, “We were keen to start the Pro Kabaddi League Season 10 in a grand fashion and I would like to thank the people of Ahmedabad in helping us in doing so. The fans in the stadium got behind not just their own team but also all the other teams in action as well. After a successful Ahmedabad leg, we will now look to continue our momentum in Bengaluru.” 

The Pro Kabaddi League Season 10 Bengaluru leg will be played from 8-13 December 2023. Thereafter, the league will move in the following order of venues – Pune (15-20 December 2023), Chennai (22-27 December 2023), Noida (29 December 2023 – 3 January 2024), Mumbai (5-10 January 2024), Jaipur (12-17 January 2024), Hyderabad (19-24 January 2024), Patna (26-31 January 2024), Delhi (2-7 February 2024), Kolkata (9-14 February 2024) and Panchkula (16-21 February).  

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

Harven Pro Tennis League: Lucknow Aviators, Paramount Proec Tigers, Ichiban Samurai and Indraprastha Warriors register wins on opening day

New Delhi, 8th December 2023: On the opening day of the fifth season of the Harven Pro Tennis League (PTL), Lucknow Aviators, last year’s runners-up Paramount Proec Tigers, Ichiban Samurai and Indraprastha Warriors registered wins at the RK Khanna Stadium in New Delhi on Thursday.

In the day’s early ties, Lucknow Aviators convincingly beat DMG Delhi Crusaders 88-72 while Paramount Proec Tigers staged a comeback to defeat Sankara Stag Babolat Yoddhas 83-77. Meanwhile, in the evening set of ties, Indraprastha Warriors comfortably beat Mumbai Acers 88-72 while Inchiban Samurai were far too good for defending champions Gurgaon Sapphires (83-77).



The set of results put Indraprastha Warriors and Ichiban Samurai in top-two places from Group A. While Lucknow Aviators and Paramount Proec Tigers held the top two spots in Group B. The top-two teams will qualify for the semi-final on Sunday with the teams ranked based on points won.

With matches featuring women’s, men’s pros; men’s and women’s Next Gen players and Masters in singles and doubles formats, it promised to be a close affair and it delivered. Played on parallel courts at the Delhi Lawn Tennis Association (DLTA), the fifth edition of the PTL witnessed matches going close from the very first ties in the city’s afternoon. Paramount Proec Tigers were neck-and-neck, on 30-30, after three matches before conceding a four-point deficit following the fifth match where Arjun Kadhe thumped Vishnu Vardhan 18-12. It gave Sankara Stag Babolat Yoddhas a 57-53 lead.

In the doubles matches that followed, Sravya Shivani & Divya Ungrish beat Sowjanya Bavisetti & Sahira Singh (13-7) to turn things around before Vishnu Vardhan & Parikshit Somani ensured the win when they held the upper hand over Arjun Kadhe & Vansh Bisht (17-13).

If this was a close contest, the tie between DMG Delhi Crusaders and Lucknow Aviators was a blowout. Jennifer Luikham and Kashish Bhatia played out a nervy 10-10 draw in the 20-point tiebreak format in the first match. But in the subsequent matches, Lucknow Aviators’ Shivank Bhatnagar and Diva Bhatia gave the team a sizeable 16-point lead when they trounced Sarthak Suden and Somya Arya respectively.

Karan Singh did give the DMG Delhi Crusaders reason to celebrate briefly with a 17-13 win over Anirudh Chandrasekar but the damage was already done. In a format where every point matters, this defeat may come back to haunt DMG Delhi Crusaders and their quest to qualify for the semi-finals.

The evening ties followed the theme of the day with one remaining close while the other was a one-sided affair. Indraprastha Warriors registered 14-6 and 18-12 wins in the Women’s Pro & Master’s Pro Doubles matches followed by men’s singles matches. It gave them a 14 point lead which the team maintained until the end.

Ichiban Samurai, meanwhile, were coasting along at one stage with a 12 point lead (61-49) over the Gurgaon Sapphires. They were helped in their cause by thumping – 14-6 and 13-7 – wins to get the tie underway. Sharmada Balu & Ruma Gaikaiwari did stage a comeback by beating Sahja Yamalapalli & Gauri Mangaonkar 15-5 and cut down the gap to just two points (64-66).

But in the decisive matchup featuring Nitin Kumar Sinha & Rushil Khosla vs Rithvik Choudhary & Maan Kesharwani, the Ichiban Samurai pairing won 17-13 to seal the tie in their favour.

Complete Harven Pro Tennis League schedule:

Thursday 7th December 2023
2:00 PM – Centre Court – Delhi DMG Crusaders Vs Lucknow Aviators
2:00 PM – Court 1 – Sankara Stag Babolat Yoddhas Vs Paramount Proec Tigers
6:00 PM – Centre Court – Mumbai Acers Vs Indraprasth Warriors
6:00 PM – Court 1 – Gurgaon Sapphires Vs Ichiban Samurai

Friday 8th December 2023

2:00 PM – Centre Court – Sankara Stag Babolat Yoddhas Vs Lucknow Aviators
2:00 PM – Court 1 – Ichiban Samurai Vs Indraprasth Warriors
6:00 PM – Centre Court – Paramount Proec Tigers Vs DMG Delhi Crusaders
6:00 PM – Court 1 – Gurgaon Sapphires Vs Mumbai Acers

Saturday 9th December 2023

2:00 PM – Centre Court – Ichiban Samurai Vs Mumbai Acers
2:00 PM – Court 1 – Lucknow Aviators Vs Paramount Proec Tigers
6:00 PM – Centre Court – Gurgaon Sapphires Vs Indraprasth Warriors
6:00 PM – Court 1 – Delhi DMG Crusaders Vs Sankara Stag Babolat Yoddhas

Sunday 10 December 2023

12:00 PM – Centre Court – Semi-final 1

03:00 PM – Centre Court – Semi-final

06:00 PM – Centre Court – Final

PTL Season 5 matches can be watched Live on following Youtube link:

https://www.youtube.com/@Sportzworkz
by Richard Miller (US)

NBA: Pacers Overpower Bucks 128-119, Advance to NBA In-Season Tournament Final Behind Haliburton’s Heroics

Match Report: Indiana Pacers vs. Milwaukee Bucks – NBA In-Season Tournament Semifinal

Final Score: Indiana Pacers 128, Milwaukee Bucks 119

In a thrilling encounter, the Indiana Pacers, spearheaded by Tyrese Haliburton’s outstanding performance, triumphed over the Milwaukee Bucks with a score of 128-119, securing their place in the championship game of the NBA’s inaugural In-Season Tournament.

Haliburton’s Heroics
Tyrese Haliburton was the star of the night, delivering an exceptional performance with 27 points and 15 assists. His crucial three-pointers, especially the one in the final minute, were pivotal in sealing the win for Indiana. Haliburton’s leadership on the court was evident, as he rallied his team with both his play and his infectious energy.

Team Effort and Offensive Firepower
The Pacers’ victory was underpinned by a strong team effort. Myles Turner added 26 points, making significant contributions to the team’s offense. Obi Toppin scored efficiently, with 14 points on 6-of-8 shooting, while Isaiah Jackson and Bruce Brown contributed 11 and 10 points, respectively. The Pacers’ bench played a crucial role, outscoring the Bucks’ reserves 43-13, showcasing the depth and versatility of the team.

Bucks’ Standout Performances
Despite the loss, the Bucks saw impressive performances from their key players. Giannis Antetokounmpo led with 37 points and 10 rebounds, followed by Damian Lillard with 24 points. Khris Middleton and Brook Lopez also made significant contributions with 20 and 18 points, respectively.

Critical Moments
A crucial moment came in the second quarter when Indiana’s bench sparked a 16-7 run, turning a two-point deficit into a lead. The Pacers continued to build on this momentum, with Turner, Brown, and Haliburton combining for 17 points in a decisive 21-13 run to close the game.

Looking Ahead
The Pacers, showcasing their scoring prowess with an average of 132.6 points in the tournament, now advance to face the Los Angeles Lakers in what promises to be an exciting championship game on Saturday night in Las Vegas.

Up Next
The Pacers gear up for the tournament title game against the Lakers, while the Bucks will aim to bounce back as they host the Chicago Bulls on Monday night.

In summary, the Indiana Pacers’ victory over the Milwaukee Bucks was a testament to their depth, offensive strength, and Haliburton’s emerging leadership. Their journey to the In-Season Tournament final sets the stage for a captivating showdown with the Lakers.

by Richard Miller (US)

NBA: LeBron Leads Lakers to Dominant Victory Over Pelicans, Securing Spot in NBA In-Season Tournament Final

Match Report: Los Angeles Lakers vs. New Orleans Pelicans – NBA In-Season Tournament Semifinal

Final Score: Los Angeles Lakers 133, New Orleans Pelicans 89

In a commanding display of basketball prowess, the Los Angeles Lakers, led by a stellar performance from LeBron James, dismantled the New Orleans Pelicans with a decisive 133-89 victory in the NBA In-Season Tournament semifinal in Las Vegas. This emphatic win propels the Lakers into the championship game against the Indiana Pacers.

LeBron James’ Dominance
LeBron James, the Lakers’ talisman, was in sublime form, scoring 30 points in less than three quarters. His offensive onslaught included a series of highlight-reel moments, particularly in the second quarter where he scored the team’s first 11 points, turning a one-point deficit into a significant lead. James’ performance was punctuated by three consecutive 3-pointers, electrifying the crowd and showcasing his range and accuracy.

Team Effort and Defensive Brilliance
The Lakers’ victory was not just about James. It was a comprehensive team effort, with notable contributions from Austin Reaves, who added 17 points, and Anthony Davis, who posted a double-double with 16 points and 15 rebounds. Taurean Prince also chipped in with 15 points. The team’s defensive effort was equally impressive, holding the Pelicans to a mere 35.8% shooting from the field and securing a dominant 59-42 rebounding advantage.

Pelicans’ Struggles
The Pelicans, despite starting strong with a 30-29 lead after the first quarter, were unable to maintain their momentum. Trey Murphy III led their scoring with 14 points, followed by Zion Williamson with 13 points and Herbert Jones with 10. However, their overall performance was lackluster, as noted by coach Willie Green, who expressed disappointment in the team’s competitive spirit.

Looking Ahead
The Lakers now look forward to the championship game against a youthful and fast-paced Indiana Pacers team. Their recent form, winning three of their last four games, coupled with the high stakes of the NBA In-Season Tournament, has brought out a level of intensity and unity in the team, as observed by coach Darvin Ham.

Up Next
The Pelicans will try to regroup as they host the Minnesota Timberwolves on Monday night. Meanwhile, the Lakers are set to face the Indiana Pacers in what promises to be an exhilarating title game on Saturday night in Las Vegas.

In summary, the Lakers’ dominant win over the Pelicans showcased their potential as a cohesive and formidable unit, with LeBron James leading the charge and the team demonstrating a solid defensive and offensive balance. The NBA In-Season Tournament final against the Pacers is poised to be a thrilling encounter.

by Steve Murphy PL

Everton Triumphs Over Newcastle United with a 3-0 Win at Goodison Park

In a thrilling Premier League encounter, Everton emerged victorious with a 3-0 win against Newcastle United at a vibrant Goodison Park. Late goals from Dwight McNeil and Abdoulaye Doucoure, followed by a strike from substitute Beto, clinched the victory for Everton, lifting them out of the relegation zone.

How the Match Unfolded

Team Changes and Early Exchanges
Everton’s manager Sean Dyche made two critical changes from their previous win, introducing Dominic Calvert-Lewin and Seamus Cole into the starting lineup. On the other hand, Newcastle were forced to substitute Nick Pope with Martin Dubravka.

Despite Everton’s energetic start, Newcastle first threatened the goal with Kieran Trippier’s free-kick and a subsequent effort from Miguel Almiron, both saved by Jordan Pickford.

Everton’s Resilient Response
Everton responded robustly, with Calvert-Lewin testing Dubravka twice, while Alexander Isak posed a threat for Newcastle, narrowly missing the target.

The match remained goalless at halftime, despite several close calls, including a missed opportunity by Calvert-Lewin.

Second Half: Breakthrough and Dominance
Post-interval, Anthony Gordon nearly scored for Everton, but his attempt was straight at Pickford. The game’s dynamic changed in the final 10 minutes when McNeil capitalized on a mistake from Trippier to score. This was followed by a second goal from Doucoure, who took advantage of another Trippier error.

Stoppage Time Drama
In the extensive stoppage time, Beto sealed the deal for Everton with his first Premier League goal, cementing a significant 3-0 victory for the team.

Match Aftermath

This win, only the second home victory for Everton this season, propels them to the 17th spot with 10 points. Newcastle, despite the loss, remains in a comfortable seventh position with 26 points.

Everton’s win, marked by strategic plays and seizing opportunities from defensive lapses, demonstrates their resolve to fight against relegation. For Newcastle, the match serves as a reminder of the importance of defensive solidity in the Premier League’s competitive landscape. The season continues to unfold with its share of surprises and intense football action.

by Steve Murphy PL

West Ham United Stages Comeback to Beat Tottenham Hotspur 2-1

In a dramatic turnaround, West Ham United overcame a one-goal deficit to defeat Tottenham Hotspur 2-1. This victory not only narrowed the gap between the two teams to just three points but also extended Spurs’ string of disappointing performances, marking their fourth loss in five matches.

Team Changes and Early Dynamics
Both teams underwent notable changes for this encounter. Tottenham manager Ange Postecoglou brought back Cristian Romero after his suspension, replacing Emerson Royal. Pierre-Emile Hojbjerg also joined the starting lineup, taking Bryan Gil’s place.

For the Hammers, David Moyes made strategic shifts due to injuries and personal reasons. Goalkeeper Lukasz Fabianski made his season debut, filling in for the injured Alphonse Areola. Kurt Zouma returned to the defense, replacing Konstantinos Mavropanos.

Tottenham’s Strong Start
Spurs dominated early, maintaining 90% possession and converting this advantage into a lead in the 11th minute. Romero’s header from Pedro Porro’s corner marked his first home goal, putting Tottenham ahead. The team maintained control, with Giovani Lo Celso and Brennan Johnson testing Fabianski, but failed to extend their lead.

West Ham’s Resilience
West Ham showed glimpses of a comeback just before the break, with Lucas Paqueta narrowly missing a chance. The second half saw a shift in momentum as Jarrod Bowen equalized for the Hammers, capitalizing on a deflected shot by Mohammed Kudus. This marked Bowen’s ninth Premier League goal and continued his scoring streak in away games.

Dramatic Turnaround
Spurs had opportunities to regain the lead, notably through a Richarlison header, but failed to capitalize. In a twist of fate, a defensive error from Spurs’ Destiny Udogie led to James Ward-Prowse scoring the winning goal for West Ham after his initial shot rebounded off the post.

Match Aftermath

Despite a late siege by Tottenham, West Ham’s defense, anchored by Fabianski, held firm. The victory elevates West Ham to ninth place with 24 points, closely trailing Tottenham, who remain in fifth. This match not only showcased West Ham’s tenacity and strategic gameplay but also highlighted Tottenham’s ongoing struggles to maintain consistency in their performance. The Premier League continues to be an arena of unpredictability and excitement, with teams like West Ham proving their ability to challenge the upper echelons of the table.

Key Statistics

  • West Ham’s Away Success: The Hammers have now won back-to-back away games in the Premier League for the second time this season, a feat they achieved only once last season.
  • Bowen’s Scoring Streak: Jarrod Bowen’s goal marked his seventh consecutive scoring in away Premier League games, nearing Robin van Persie’s record of nine.
  • Tottenham’s Home Struggles: Spurs have lost three consecutive home Premier League games for the first time since September 2008.
  • Porro’s Impact: Since his Premier League debut in February, Pedro Porro has been involved in 10 goals, trailing only behind Trent Alexander-Arnold among defenders for goal contributions.
  • Spurs’ Unfortunate Record: Tottenham has become the first Premier League team to score first in five successive games without winning any (D1 L4), and the first to lose three consecutive home matches after scoring first.
by Abhishek Shukla

Volleyball World Club Championships: Defending champions Sir Safety Perugia open campaign with straight set win over Itambe Minas

Bengaluru, Dec 7: Holders Sir Sicoma Perugia of Italy kicked-off their title defence of the men’s Volleyball Club World Championships with an emphatic 3-0 victory over Brazil’s Itambe Minas in their Pool A clash at the Koramangala indoor stadium here on Thursday.
 
The second Pool A clash was a battle between the powerful spikes of Minas’ Outside hitter Paulo da Silva and Opposite Michael Sanchez and the guile and defensive stability of Perugia with the latter coming on tops 25-18, 26-24, 25-22, in the first-ever Club World Championships being held in India.
 
Perugia’s victory means that the Italian outfit and Minas, who had defeated Prime Volleyball League champions Ahmedabad Defenders in their opening match, have three points each and should make it to the semi-finals unless the local outfit manages to pull off a miracle and beat the defending champions without dropping a set on Friday.
 
And the way Perugia outclassed Minas on Thursday, the Defenders will have their task cut out.
 
In the opening set, Silva and Sanchez scored 10 points among them for Minas but most of their efforts were undone by strong blocking from the Italians, who also came up with delectable drops and short setting from the centre to race ahead from 15-16 to 21-16 and never looked back.
 
The second set was a much closer affair with Minas holding the lead for the major part of the set. But as the set progressed, Perugia’s star setter Simone Giannelli started creating magic at the net and their outsider hitters Kamil Semeniuk and Oleh Plotnytskyi making the most of the short sets to flummox the opposition blockers.
 
Plotnytskyi, the 26-year-old Ukrainian, scored a couple of points with drops between the blockers and other Minas players while Giannelli and middle blocker Sebastian Sole continued to frustrate the Brazilians with their quality blocks to finally take a three-point lead at 20-17.
 
Minas changed tactics with a couple of substitutions and forced the set to go into extra points. But the Italians came up with another quality block on the second set point to march towards victory.
 
Perugia, who have registered eight wins in their nine SuperLega Credem Banca matches, then just tightened the noose in the third set when they opened up a 10-5 lead and Minas players started making unforced errors under pressure.
 
The Brazilian outfit threatened a late fightback when they reduced the deficit to 18-17 but Italians did just enough to ensure that there were no last-minute hiccups. Minas saved one of the three match points before Bryan Alves da Silva completely mishit the serve to end their misery after an hour and 18 minutes.
 
The tournament will go on till 10th of December at the Koramangala Indoor Stadium in Bengaluru. Ahmedabad Defenders will find themselves in Pool A, facing the defending champions, Sir Sicoma Perugia from Italy, and Brazil’s Minas Tênis Clube (Itambé Minas). In Pool B, Halkbank Spor Kulübü from Turkey, Sada Cruzeiro Volei from Brazil, and Japan’s Suntory Sunbirds are grouped.  
 
The match tickets can be purchased at BookMyShow.    
  
The Men’s Volleyball Club World Championships 2023 will be telecast live in India on Sony Sports Network across Sony Ten 1 & Sony Ten 3 channels and the broadcast will be shown globally on Volleyball World. Fans in India can also stream the tournament online on FanCode.

Matches for 8th December 2023 –  
5.00 PM – Halkbank Vs Sada Cruzeiro Volei 
8.30 PM –  Ahmedabad Defenders Vs Sir Safety Peurgia