by Abhishek Shukla

ISL: Jamshedpur FC come back with a brace to seal a draw 2-2 against Chennaiyin FC

Jamshedpur FC held Chennaiyin FC to a 2-2 draw at the JRD Tata Sports Complex in the Indian Super League (ISL) 2023-24 tonight after going down by a couple of goals in the first half.

The Marina Machans made a mark early on, with the quality of their domestic offensive unit reflecting with strikes by Farukh Choudhary and Ninthoinganba Meetei.

Farukh met a cross by Rafael Crivellaro and headed it into the top right corner to open the scoring in the ninth minute of the match.

The former Mumbai City FC winger returned the favour soon afterwards, spotting Crivellaro with space in front of him and playing a pass outside of the box in the 28th minute. Debjit Majumder held his ground to save the Brazilian’s shot at the centre of the the goal though.

The visitors continued to sustain periods of dominance upfront. Their quick-footed forwards earned multiple fouls from promising positions, and one of them led to Ninthoinganba doubling their lead with his second goal of the campaign.

In the 40th minute, Jordan Murray saw Ninthoinganba in a potential goal-scoring spot on the right side of the box, and he delivered him a short pass that the 22-year-old immediately shot past TP Rehenesh.

Jamshedpur FC took a moment, gathered back their momentum, and cut the lead of Chennaiyin FC through Pachuau Laldinpuia nodding the ball home in the fourth minute of the added time of the first half.

It was a culmination of a passage of play where the home team had pegged Chennaiyin FC back on the field. A moment prior to this goal, Laldinpuia had shown timely awareness to set up Muhammed Uvais’ strike. The latter faltered, but the former made up for it with a header from a very close range.

That goal perhaps shifted the momentum in the favour of Scott Cooper and his men. Steve Ambri and Imran Khan ran circles around the Chennaiyin FC backline in the opening 15 minutes of the second half. However, Cooper perhaps felt the need of an imposing presence upfront, and hence brought in Daniel Chima Chukwu in place of Ambri in the 61st minute.

That move paid off, with Chima acting as the target man in the Chennaiyin FC box, allowing Jamshedpur FC to go more direct in their approach. After a few close attempts, he headed in a cross by Nikhil Barla in the 90th minute, as Owen Coyle’s quest to beat his former team in their home turf vanquished with both sides settling for a point each.

Key Performer of the Match

Farukh Choudhary (Chennaiyin FC)

Farukh was a livewire in the field tonight, completing 14 passes, making two clearances, tackling and intercepting once each, in addition to creating a goal-scoring opportunity and netting the opening strike of the match.

What’s next for both teams?

Both these teams will play their next fixture against Bengaluru FC. Chennaiyin FC will host the Blues on December 13, whereas Jamshedpur FC will travel to take them on December 16.

Brief Scores

Jamshedpur FC 2 (Pachuau Laldinpuia 45+4’, Daniel Chima Chukwu 90’) – 2 Chennaiyin FC (Farukh Choudhary 9’, Ninthoinganba Meetei 40’)

by Abhishek Shukla

Pro Kabaddi: Scintillating Patna Pirates Halt Gujarat Giants’ Juggernaut in Final Game of Opening Leg

Ahmedabad, 7th December, 2023: The Patna Pirates put on a stupendous showing in the final game of the opening leg of the 10th Season of the Pro Kabaddi League, ending the Gujarat Giants’ winning streak in an absolute nail-biter of a clash. The Patna Pirates played with panache and power and won by 33-30 against the Gujarat Giants.

Sachin and Rohit Gulia got the Patna Pirates and the Gujarat Giants off the blocks with their first raids of the game, after which the former champions raced into a 3-point lead within the first three minutes of the game. The Patna Pirates continued to dominate the early exchanges, with each one of them pitching in against the home team. However, as the first half progressed, the Gujarat Giants started to fight back.

Compact and well-drilled, both sides continued to go at each other with all they had, and with less than 8 minutes to go in the half, the scores were level at 9-9. While Sourav Gulia and Rakesh were leading the charge for the Gujarat Giants, it was Sudhakar M who picked up the baton for the Patna Pirates in the first half, which ended with both sides tied on 12-12.

The Patna Pirates were off the blocks at good pace in the second half, with Sachin landing a crucial ALL OUT on the Gujarat Giants, to give themselves a 7-point lead, and some much-needed breathing space in what was turning out to be an absolute thriller. The Gujarat Giants were finding it tough to get going on the night as Sachin, Neeraj and Ankit continued to dominate. At the halfway point in the second half, the Patna Pirates led by 11 points.

Another ALL OUT went in favour of the Patna Pirates, who further stretched their lead to 14 points with just under 9 minutes to go. However, Rakesh and Sombir, encouraged by the talismanic Fazel Atrachali were looking to mount a comeback. With 5 minutes left on the clock, the Patna Pirates had a 9-point lead. The home team then landed an ALL OUT on the Patna Pirates, giving the supporters something to cheer about.

With two minutes left, Rakesh notched up his Super 10, before he continued to power on, cutting down the lead to two points. However, the late charge was not enough, as the Patna Pirates walked off the mat with full points.

by Abhishek Shukla

Pro Kabaddi: Jaipur Pink Panthers and Bengal Warriors play out first tie of PKL Season 10

Ahmedabad, 07th December 2023: The Jaipur Pink Panthers and the Bengal Warriors played out a highly entertaining 28-28 draw — the first of the season — at the EKA Arena by TransStadia on Thursday. Bhavani Rajput recorded a Super 10 for the Jaipur Pink Panthers, meanwhile, Shrikant Jadhav top-scored for the Warriors with 7 points in the match.

The Jaipur Pink Panthers got off to a great start and didn’t allow the Warriors to pick up a point in the opening minutes of the match. It took the guile of Shrikant Jadhav on a DO OR DIE raid to get the Warriors on board. From there on, the Warriors constantly kept the Pink Panthers’ numbers restricted on the mat, logging points constantly. 

Numbers didn’t matter for the Pink Panthers though. Their defence led by Ankush logged three SUPER TACKLES in a row in the first half to ensure they held the lead at the break. So dominant was the Pink Panthers’ defence unit that it contributed 8 tackle points to their tally as they led 13-9 at halftime.

To the Warriors’ credit, they didn’t get deterred by the Panthers’ defence unit and kept attacking without abandon. They won their reward early in the second half, inflicting the first ALL OUT of the game to take a 16-13 lead. 

Once again the Pink Panthers surged, and going into the last ten minutes, the teams were locked at 20 points apiece. There was no separating them as the clock ticked down, each raid matched by the other. A series of decisions given by a hair’s breadth ensured the two teams would remain locked on even terms with a minute to play. Right at the end, Shrikant Jadhav thought he’d won it with 10 seconds left to play, but Bhawani Rajput pulled off a raid point right after. Warriors’ Captain Maninder Singh was happy to carry out an empty raid to settle for a tie in the end.

by Abhishek Shukla

Karnakata aim to keep HN Grisha, Thangavelu legacy alive at Khelo India Para Games

New Delhi, 5th December 2023: Inspired by home-grown paralympic stars like Grisha HN and Mariappan Thangavelu, who won a Gold in 2012 London Paralympic Games and 2016 Rio Paralympics respectively, the Karnataka contingent consisting of 84 athletes is eager to put Karnataka in the top 3 of the medal tally.

The Khelo India Para Games mark a monumental step towards inclusivity in Indian sports, demonstrating the extraordinary talent and grit of the para-athletes from every corner of the country.

Speaking at a heart-warming send-off ceremony organized by Sports Authority of India (SAI), Southern Centre along with Department of Youth Education and Sports (DYES) and Karnataka Paralympic Association, Rakshita Raju – Gold medallist in 1500m at the 4th Asian Para Games in Jakarta, Indonesia hailed the efforts of the government to host the first-ever Khelo India Para Games starting 10th December in New Delhi. “This is a big moment for Karnataka. Traditionally, we have always done well in para sports and at the first-ever Khelo India Para Games, we are well-prepared to make a mark and win medals. With the hosting of Khelo India Para Games, we now feel like there is no difference between us and the able-bodied.”

The first-ever Khelo India Para Games is scheduled to be held from 10th December to 17th December 2023. Over 1,400 participants from across 32 states and union territories including Services Sports Control Board are expected to participate in the maiden Khelo India Para Games which will witness para-athletes vie for honours in 7 disciplines including para athletics, para shooting, para archery, para football, para badminton, para table tennis and para weight lifting. The events will be held across 3 SAI stadiums – the IG Stadium, Shooting Range in Tughlaqabad and the JLN Stadium.

Since 2018, a total of 11 Khelo India Games have been successfully held. This includes 5 Khelo India Youth Games, 3 Khelo India University Games and 3 Khelo India Winter Games. 

Paralympic Committee of India (PCI) Chairman Satyanarayana, who also closely works with para-athletes in Karnataka said, “Karnataka typically does very well in para-athletics and I expect them to win medals in shooting and power lifting. A realistic expectation is for Karnataka to finish within the 5th place in overall medal tally. I believe this is a great opportunity for our athletes to showcase their talent and just the spirit of participating despite all the challenges they face. Hosting an event of this magnitude for the para-athletes is no mean feat and we are extremely grateful to the government of India for initiating Khelo India Para Games.”
by Abhishek Shukla

Volleyball Club World Championship: Suntory Sunbirds confirm semi-final berth despite 2-3 loss against Sada Cruzeiro Volei

Bengaluru, Dec 7: Japan’s Suntory Sunbirds became the first team to book a semi-final berth in this edition of the Men’s Volleyball Club World Championships 2023 despite four-time Champions Sada Cruzeiro Volei eking out a 3-2 win at the Koramangala Indoor stadium here on Thursday.

Sunbirds, playing in the prestigious competition for the first time, saved four match points in the third set and then forced a decider to assure themselves of one point from their second Pool B match and sealed their semi-final berth.

Sada also stayed in hunt for a spot in the knock-out stage as they regrouped in time to win their opening clash of the championship 25-21, 31-29, 28-30, 22-25, 15-12 and earn two valuable points.

According to the tournament format, a team winning by a margin of 3-2 earns three points while the losing outfit also bags a point for their effort.

As things stand in Pool B, Sunbirds now have four points while Sada will face Turkey’s Halkbank Spor Kulubu in a must-win clash on Friday.

Such an eventuality looked improbable till the business end of the third set between Sada and Sunbirds with the Brazilian outfit looking set to clinch the three points full points thanks to their superior spiking. However, Sunbirds kept their nerves when it mattered the most to earn a valuable point.

Sada, who have been unbeaten in their five Brazilian Superliga matches so far, looked comfortably placed in the third set, having won the first two, as they opened up a 14-10 advantage with a couple of quality blocks.

But Sunbirds, who had blanked Halkbank in their opening match, were not willing to throw in the towel just yet and levelled the scores at 22-22 with their Russian Opposite Dmitriy Muserskiy continuing to find gaps in the Brazilian defence. They then went on to save four match points before converting their second set point to finally get on the scoreboard.

With the momentum clearly shifting in Sunbirds favour, the Japanese outfit kept up the pressure over their more experienced opponents. A forced substitution of Alain Junior with all to play for at 13-12 also failed to slow then down as they earned three set points.

Sada saved one of them but Saatkamp’s next serve went long and Sunbirds expectedly celebrated their passage to the semi-finals.

Earlier, Sunbirds had started the match against Sada with two consecutive service errors in the opening set and though they raised their game thereafter, the Japanese side was always chasing the set.

Sada boasts of a strong attacking line up with Cuban outside hitter Miguel Lopez, Olympic champions Wallace de Souza and Lucas Saatkamp and Sunbirds knew that their chances of sealing the semi-final berth would depend on their blockers and defence.

Lopez was the most dominating spiker for Sada from the left scoring a total of eight points in the opening set and the support he got from Saatkamp and Batista Cledenilson Souza even forced Sunbirds coach Kota Yamamura to sacrifice the setter to have another blocker on the court.

This did help the Japanese side to close the gap by bagging three straight points at 18-21 but they could not stop Sada from taking the set.

Sunbirds showed a lot more purpose in the second set with outsider hitter Alain Junior from Cuba going for powerful spikes while the Russian Opposite Dmitriy Muserskiy opting to mixed things up with some clever placement. Coupled with a strong defensive showing by the entire team meant that Sada could never open up a gap of more than two points.

The Brazilians were also guilty of wasting six set points with four of them going abegging due to service errors. It finally took an ace by Saatkamp following a service error from Kenji Sato to wrap up the set for eventual winners.

But Sunbirds staged a dramatic comeback in the third and then forced a decider with the Brazilians clearly under pressure.

It was a battle of nerves in the decider with Sunbirds first opening up a 5-2 to lead only for Sada to win four straight points after taking a time-out to take the lead at 6-5.

The experience of Wallace, Lopez and the team then came to the fore as they wrapped up the set and the match.

 
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

Pro Kabaddi: Pardeep Narwal Achieves Record 80 Super 10s in Dominant Win Against Haryana Steelers

Ahmedabad, 07th December 2023: The Pro Kabaddi League superstar Pardeep Narwal became the first player to record 80 Super 10s in PKL during U.P. Yoddhas’ match against Haryana Steelers in Ahmedabad on Wednesday. Narwal, who scored 12 points in the match, helped his team defeat the Steelers 57-27. Speaking about the magnificent feat, Narwal said, “I will try to register my 100th Super 10 this season. There are 20 more league games left for us and I’ll definitely try to record a Super 10 in each of the matches.”

When asked about the win, the Yoddhas Captain expressed, “It was really important for us to win the match against Haryana Steelers because we lost our previous match against U Mumba. If we lost two consecutive matches, then we would’ve been under a lot of pressure. We wanted to play as a unit against Steelers and we managed to do that.”

After a disappointing outing against U Mumba personally, Narwal wanted to make things right in Yoddhas’ game against the Steelers, “I couldn’t even score one point against U Mumba and I disappointed the fans as well. Therefore, I was determined to put up a good performance against the Steelers.”

Preview for matches on Friday:

The Bulls will be looking to find form in front of their home fans in the first match of the Bengaluru leg, however, they will face stiff competition from Dabang Delhi K.C., who have a strong raiders brigade in Naveen, Manjeet and Ashu Malik.

The second match of the day will be the Maharashtra Derby as the Puneri Paltan will take on U Mumba. Puneri defeated the Season 9 champions Jaipur Pink Panthers in their first game, meanwhile, U Mumba went down in a close contest against Gujarat Giants in their last match.

by Abhishek Shukla

PVL:Record Bids and Exciting Squad Compositions at RuPay Prime Volleyball League Auction in Bengaluru

December 7th, 2023: Bengaluru: A total of 504 players went under the hammer at the Sheraton Grande hotel here in Bengaluru as nine franchises bid for the finest volleyball talent in India ahead of the third season of the RuPay Prime Volleyball League.  Representing, the North Belt, Delhi Toofans joined the likes of Ahmedabad Defenders, Kochi Blue Spikers, Hyderabad Black Hawks, Chennai Blitz, Bengaluru Torpedoes, Kolkata Thunderbolts, Mumbai Meteors and Calicut as the newest entrants to the RuPay Prime Volleyball League. At the auctions, attacker Aman Kumar and U21 prospect and setter, Sameer secured record bids to emerge as the most expensive players of the auction with a price tag of Rs 18 Lakh each. Aman Kumar was secured by Kochi Blue Spikers while Sameer went to Chennai Blitz. 

With a purse of Rs 70 Lakh, each franchise had the option to retain their players from the previous season or release them into the auction pool.  The Indian players were slotted divided into four categories, whereas International players were directly drafted into the teams. The categories included: Platinum (Base price: Rs 8 lakh), Gold (Base price: Rs 5 lakh), Silver (Base price: Rs 3 lakh), and Bronze (Base price: Rs 2 lakh). 

Ahmedabad Defenders, who are currently competing at the Men’s Club World Championships as reigning champions of the RuPay Prime Volleyball league, strengthened their squad with the addition of Shikhar Singh (middle blocker) for 16.75 Lakh and once again found Shon T John (attacker) for 11.5 Lakh. The Defenders finished their auction with the purchase of Naveen Raja Jacob (attacker) for Rs 2 Lakh. 

With the largest list of retained players Bengaluru Torpedoes had a comfortable auction as they solely purchased Tanish Chaudhary (attacker) for Rs 5 Lakh 

Calicut Heroes’ first buy of the day was Prince (attacker), bought at Rs 7.8 Lakh. The Heroes also picked up Alan Ashique (libero) at Rs 3 Lakh and Vikas Maan (middle blocker), Aman Kumar (setter) and Praveen Kumar at a price tag of Rs 2 Lakh. 

Chennai Blitz, in a landmark bid, commissioned the services of  U21 player Sameer (setter) from the Gold category, while making the highest bid in auction history at Rs 18 Lakh. R Prabhakaran (libero) and Himanshu Tyagi (attacker) also found their way to the Chennai Blitz at the price of Rs 3 Lakh each. Meanwhile, Suryan Nanjil (setter) was sought by the Blitz for Rs 2.6 Lakh while Joel Benjamin (attacker) joined the squad priced at Rs 2 Lakh. 

Competing in their debut season, the Delhi Toofans were given the option to draft people ahead of the auction. They opened their auction with veteran Rohit Kumar (attacker) at a price of Rs 11.25 Lakh, followed by a successful bid of Rs 3.4 Lakh for Amal K Thomas (attacker). For a middle blocker, the Toofans scooped up Fayis NK at Rs 3 Lakh, and Manoj Kumar came in (universal) at Rs 3 Lakh. 

Hyderabad Black Hawks began their auction with the acquisition of Prince (middle blocker) for Rs 14.75 Lakh and Sahil Kumar (universal) for Rs 10 Lakh. Furthermore, Ashok (attacker) joined the Hyderabad set up for Rs 2 Lakh. 

Kochi Blue Spikers were relentless in their pursuit of Aman Kumar (attacker), roping him in for a record price of Rs 18 Lakh, making him the most expensive buy in the league’s history. Sachin K (middle blocker) joined the squad at Rs 5 Lakh while Jithin N (setter) was bagged for Rs 5.9 Lakh.  The Spiker further strengthened their teams with the addition of Lad Om Vasant (setter) for Rs 6.1 Lakh, Digvijay Singh (middle blocker) for 4.75 Lakh and veteran libero Ratheesh for Rs 2 Lakh.

Kolkata Thunderbolts made their first purchase of the day, with a Rs 7 Lakh bid for Vinayak (setter). The Thunderbolts went on to make investments in Prabhagaran (attacker), Arjun Nath L S (middle blocker), Amit Chokker (attacker) and Deepak Kumar (attacker) for Rs 3 Lakh. However, Kolkata’s biggest purchase was Praful S (middle blocker) for Rs 9.25 Lakh. 

Mumbai Meteors were the most active franchise in the platinum category, obtaining Shubham Chaudhary (universal) for Rs 14 Lakh and Ajith Lal (attacker) for Rs 8.25 Lakh. The Meteors also procured Uttar Pradesh’s Vipul Kumar (setter) for Rs 5.1 Lakh, Suyansh Tomar (attacker) for Rs. 3.2 Lakh and Saurabh Mann for Rs 2 Lakh. 

Joy Bhattacharjya, CEO, RuPay Prime Volleyball League, said, “Much like the previous two editions of the RuPay Prime Volleyball League, we have had yet another thrilling auction. It is always fascinating to see the different strategies each franchise will deploy to strengthen their respective teams and based on the day’s proceedings I am certain that we are in for another riveting season of volleyball.”

Tuhin Mishra, Co-Founder & MD, Baseline Ventures, said, “As we embarked on this journey to empower and promote Indian volleyball, it has been a privilege to watch the league grow year on year. We are elated to welcome the newest franchise, Delhi Toofans and look forward to their inaugural season of the RuPay Prime Volleyball League.  Today’s auction was a thrilling experience and we have been left with very exciting squad compositions.” 

by Abhishek Shukla

Day 5 Results: 1st Hockey India Junior and Sub Junior Men Academy Championship 2023 – (Zone A)

New Delhi, 7th December, 2023: Day 5 of the 1st Hockey India Junior and Sub Junior Men Academy Championship 2023 – (Zone A) witnessed Raja Karan Hockey Academy and Cheema Hockey Academy win their respective matches in the Sub Junior category while Army Boys Sports Company, Bhai Behlo Hockey Academy Bhagta, Roundglass Punjab Hockey Club Academy and Namdhari XI won their respective matches in the Junior category.    

Raja Karan Hockey Academy qualifies for Semis: 

In the first match of the Sub Junior Category, Raja Karan Hockey Academy defeated Bhai Behlo Academy Bhagta 6-0. Mayank Rawat (3’, 27’, 34’) scored a hat-trick for Raja Karan Hockey Academy while Hargun Singh (22’), Sahil (33’) and Kumar Paras (50’) contributed a goal each as they confirmed their place in the Semi-Finals. 

Cheema Hockey Academy records first win: 

In the second match of the Sub Junior Category, Cheema Hockey Academy defeated Salute Hockey Academy 6-0. Robanpreet Singh (10’, 36’, 47’, 52’) scored four goals while Masih Vansh (27’) and Tushal (44’) scored a goal each as Cheema Hockey Academy ended their tournament on a high. 

Army Boys Sports Company continues unbeaten streak:  

In the first match of the Junior Category, Army Boys Sports Company defeated HAR Hockey Academy 5-1. Manjeet (19’, 48’) scored a brace and Captain Harpal (18’), Samir (35’) and Ankush (50’) scored a goal each for Army Boys Sports Company. The lone goal from Nitin (14’) for HAR Hockey Academy didn’t prevent Army Boys Sports Company from finishing at the top of the table in Pool A. 

Bhai Behlo Hockey Academy Bhagta records comfortable victory: 

In the second match of the Junior Category, Bhai Behlo Hockey Academy Bhagta defeated Ghumanhera Riser’s Academy 5-1. Shamsher Singh (33’, 60’) and Satnam Singh (36’, 58’) scored braces while Captain Deepak Singh (39’) scored one goal for Bhai Behlo Hockey Academy. The lone goal for Ghumanhera Riser’s Academy came in the fourth quarter from Rohan (47’). 

Roundglass Punjab Hockey Club Academy tops Pool B: 

In the third match of the Junior Category, Roundglass Punjab Hockey Club Academy defeated Markandeshwar Hockey Academy 8-2. Japnit Singh (44’, 47’, 52’) scored a hat-trick, Captain Gursewak Singh (22’, 27’) scored a brace and Joban Singh (6’), Om Rajnesh Saini (8’) and Prince Kumar (44’) scored a goal each for Roundglass Punjab Hockey Club Academy. Jatin (11’) and Sahil (23’) scored the two goals for Markandeshwar Hockey Academy as they bowed out of the tournament since they didn’t finish in the top two from Pool B. 

Namdhari XI wins three in a row to qualify for semis: 

In the fourth match of the Junior Category, Namdhari XI defeated Cheema Hockey Academy 7-2. Captain Navraj Singh (11’, 25’, 39’) led from the front for Namdhari XI and was well supported by Mandeep Singh (7’), Bihara Singh (32’), Yuvraj Singh (46’) and Dharam Singh (54’) who scored a goal each. Cheema Hockey Academy found themselves at 2-2 a few minutes into the second quarter after a brace from Divyanshu Sharma (3’, 18’) but a barrage of goals from Namdhari XI meant that Cheema Hockey Academy would finish at the bottom of their pool following the loss.  

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

1st Semi-final – Army Boys Sports Company vs Namdhari XI 

2nd Semi-final – Roundglass Punjab Hockey Club Academy vs HAR Hockey Academy 

by Abhishek Shukla

Yonex-Sunrise Guwahati Masters: Karthikeya Gulshan Kumar Shines in, Upsets Fifth Seed to Reach Quarterfinals

December 7, Guwahati:  India’s Karthikeya Gulshan Kumar came up with a clinical performance to upset fifth seed Mads Christophersen of Denmark in straight games to reach the men’s singles quarterfinals of the Yonex-Sunrise Guwahati Masters Super 100 badminton tournament here on Thursday.

The Indian men’s doubles combination of Achutaditya Rao and Venkata Harsha Vardhan then proved their mettle with a 24-22, 23-21 win over fourth seeds Wei Chun Wei and Wu Guan Xun of Chinese Taipei. Hariharan Amsakarunan and Ruban Kumar then saved two match points in the second game before packing off third seeds Pharanyu Kaosamaang and Worrapol Thongsa-Nga 16-21, 22-20, 21-16

Also advancing to the last eight stage was Malvika Bansod, who got the better of compatriot Tanya Hemanth 21-13, 21-17.

But the performer of the day was undoubtedly Karthikeyan.

The 23-year-old clearly had a game plan of not letting his opponent, ranked 82 placed above him, get the opportunity to attack at the Sarusajai stadium here.

The opening game was a close affair with the lead changing numerous times till Karthikeya bagged give straight points to move from 12-15 down to 17-15. Christophersen did manage to draw the scores level at 17-17 but the Delhi-based Indian shuttler then went on the offensive to close the game.

Karthikeya was much more in control in the second game, not letting his Danish opponent have the lead at any stage of the game and wrapped things up 21-18, 21-15 in 36 minutes.

He will now face Malaysia’s Cheam June Wei, who defeated Subhankar Dey 21-15, 21-15 in the other third round clash.

Speaking about his match, Karthikeya said he has studied Christophersen’s game and had come prepared. “His lifts were not going long enough while I could execute my plans perfectly,” he added.

In the women’s singles event, the up and coming Unnati Hooda bagged the open in game against third seed Sung Shou Yun of Chinese Taipei but went down 11-21, 21-15, 21-19.

Even fifth seed Aakarshi Kashyap and the talented Samiya Imad Farooqi put up a brave fight before going down in the pre-quarterfinals.

Kashyap saved four match points against Taipei’s Lin Sih Yun before losing the one hour three minute encounter 21-17, 12-21, 22-20 while Samiya lost 21-15, 18-21, 21-13 against second seed Wen Chi Hsu of Taipei.

In the men’s singles category, none of the other Indians in action made it to the quarterfinals with national champion Mithun Manjunath, the experienced Sameer Verma and world junior bronze medallist Ayush Shetty were knocked out in the round of 16.

Later in the day, women’s doubles second seeds Ashwini Ponnappa and Tanisha Crasto moved into the quarters with a 21-13, 21-8 win over Hooda and Palak Arora.

by Matt Windsor (US)

MLB: Juan Soto Joins Yankees in Blockbuster Trade, Bringing Powerhouse Bat to the Bronx

NASHVILLE, Tenn. — The New York Yankees have made a major move by acquiring outfielder Juan Soto from the San Diego Padres in a blockbuster seven-player trade. The deal, which became a focal point at baseball’s Winter Meetings held at the Gaylord Opryland Resort & Convention Center, sees the Yankees adding one of the sport’s most productive sluggers to their lineup.

In this high-profile transaction, the 25-year-old Soto, along with outfielder Trent Grisham, will be heading to New York. In return, the Padres receive right-handers Michael King, Drew Thorpe, Jhony Brito, and Randy Vásquez, plus catcher Kyle Higashioka. Thorpe is currently ranked as the No. 99 prospect in MLB, while Vásquez was the 13th-ranked prospect in the Yankees organization.

Soto’s Remarkable Track Record:
Juan Soto is renowned for his exceptional offensive capabilities. Yankees manager Aaron Boone praised Soto, describing him as “a machine offensively” with impressive on-base and power-hitting skills. Soto’s 2023 season with San Diego was outstanding, as he batted .275/.410/.519 with 35 home runs, 32 doubles, a triple, and 109 RBIs in 162 games. A three-time All-Star and four-time Silver Slugger, he led the Majors with 132 walks and finished sixth in the National League MVP race.

Over his six-year career, initially with the Washington Nationals and then the Padres, Soto has compiled a .284/.421/.524 slash line, hitting 160 homers and driving in 483 runs in 779 games. His performance has drawn comparisons to some of the greatest hitters in baseball history, including Ted Williams.

Soto, who turned down a 15-year, $440 million proposal from the Nationals in July 2022, is entering the final year of his contract before free agency. He earned $23 million in 2023 and is projected to earn more than $30 million in arbitration in 2024. While the Yankees may attempt to sign him to an extension, his agent Scott Boras has a history of steering his players towards the open market.

Yankees’ Outfield Configuration:
With Soto’s arrival, the Yankees are looking at a revised outfield alignment. Alex Verdugo, recently acquired from the Red Sox, is projected to play left field, Aaron Judge in center field, and Soto in right field. Grisham, known for his defensive prowess as a two-time Gold Glover, is expected to serve as a fourth outfielder and defensive replacement.

Juan Soto has played only seven games at Yankee Stadium but has excelled in these appearances, boasting a .261 average with four homers and a 1.219 OPS. His addition to the Yankees is unprecedented for a player of his caliber at such a young age, marking a historic moment in modern baseball.

The acquisition of Juan Soto signals the Yankees’ strong commitment to bolstering their offensive lineup and pursuit of championship aspirations. Soto’s record and abilities make him a formidable addition, setting the stage for an exciting season ahead in the Bronx.

by Abhishek Shukla

Rajasthan Royals onboard Curefoods as an Official Partner

National, 07 December 2023: Royals Sports Group-owned franchise Rajasthan Royals today announced an expansive digital-first partnership with Curefoods, a leading house of F&B brands in India and a player in the healthy food industry. Curefoods will become the Official Partner of the Royals, marking the initiation of a strategic collaboration set to redefine fan and consumer engagement during the 2024 season.
Curefoods, known for its commitment to promoting healthy living, aligns seamlessly with Rajasthan Royals’ holistic well-being ethos. The partnership aims to inspire fans to adopt healthier lifestyles and make informed choices, not only in terms of diet but also in physical activity.
This unique partnership brings together the inaugural league champions Rajasthan Royals who are driven by the use of technology and innovation to produce cricketing excellence, and Curefoods who are dedicated to promoting a healthy lifestyle through their diverse portfolio of nutritious and delightful food brands. Leveraging the strong foothold of the Royals’ social media platforms, the collaboration is designed to introduce a series of digitally driven initiatives that will captivate fans on a new level, both within and beyond the cricketing arena.
Jake Lush McCrum, Chief Executive Officer, Rajasthan Royals, shared his thoughts on the partnership, stating, “We are excited to announce this unique partnership with Curefoods which will unlock the power of digital platforms and help us connect with our fans and their consumers at a deeper level. This digital-first partnership will create customer delight at scale through unique experiences for our fans by leveraging our shared values of innovation and technology.”
Ankit Nagori, Founder, Curefoods, also commented on the exciting collaboration, “We are thrilled to be associating with Rajasthan Royals for the 2024 season. With this association, we want to promote the importance of healthy eating using the brilliant platform which Rajasthan Royals provides. This partnership will help us reach out to millions of potential consumers who are looking to start their health journey.”
The partnership will see Rajasthan Royals and Curefoods collaborate on a multitude of initiatives, including exclusive digital content, interactive fan experiences, and wellness campaigns. The two brands will leverage technology and digital platforms to connect with fans in innovative ways, enhancing overall fan engagement during the 2024 season.
Fans can anticipate an exhilarating season ahead as Rajasthan Royals and Curefoods embark on this groundbreaking journey together, ushering in a new era in cricket partnerships.

by Abhishek Shukla

Stupa Sports Analytics and Ultimate Table Tennis Announce Collaboration for WTT Star Contender Goa

New Delhi, December 7, 2023: Stupa Sports Analytics and Ultimate Table Tennis (UTT) are proud to announce a strategic collaboration for the upcoming WTT Star Contender, slated to take place in Goa from January 23 to 28, 2024.

The Star Contender was first brought to India by Stupa Sports Analytics, a leading homegrown global sports analytics firm. As one of the most prestigious events in the international table tennis calendar, WTT Star Contender Goa took place earlier this year and had some of the world’s biggest stars on show, including the World No. 1 Fan Zhendong, Japanese prodigy Tomokazu Harimoto, World No. 4 Wang Yidi, and World No. 5 Hina Hayata, descending to Goa for the inaugural edition. Besides that, the tournament also saw participation of 40 Indian players which was the highest for a WTT event.

The partnership with Stupa Sports Analytics marks a significant milestone in UTT’s journey, promising to elevate the WTT Star Contender to new heights and solidify its status as a sporting landmark in India. This collaborative effort is set to transcend geographical boundaries, bringing together players from around the world for a week-long celebration of table tennis excellence.

“The first edition of WTT Star Contender Goa was a great success. Table tennis is still at a nascent stage in India and tournaments like this not only show sport’s potential commercially but also encourage its overall growth,” Stupa Sports Analytics CEO and Co-founder Megha Gambhir commented.

As for UTT, it has consistently aimed at establishing a world-class league and providing a dynamic platform that unites players and fans, both in India and globally. With a vision to create unprecedented milestones for the sport, UTT has been instrumental in fostering a vibrant community around table tennis.

“This collaboration signifies a commitment to fostering international camaraderie in table tennis and encouraging the passionate community of players and fans to unite in India like never before. The WTT Star Contender Goa is poised to be a global showcase of talent, skill, and competition,” UTT co-promoter Vita Dani said.

The high-profile tournament is part of the six-star Contender series events where only the top 30 players are eligible to participate, with six players compulsory from the top 20 in the world rankings. The tournament boasts a massive prize pool of $250,000 and allows players to win ranking points and qualify for the WTT Cup Finals and WTT Champions Series.

The tournament will be co-hosted by Stupa Sports Analytics and Ultimate Table Tennis under the guidance of Table Tennis Federation of India (TTFI).

“Playing against world-class players or watching them from a close quarter always inspires the younger generation. This tournament is a great opportunity for our Indian players. We, at TTFI, extend full support to Stupa Sports Analytics and Ultimate Table Tennis to make the second edition a grand success,” Kamlesh Mehta, Secretary General of the TTFI stated.

World Table Tennis (WTT), conceptualised by the International Table Tennis Federation in 2019, serves as the epicentre for professional men’s and women’s table tennis events globally. The series encompasses a multitude of events throughout the year, with the four Grand Smashes standing out as the highest-ranked tournaments.

China’s Liang Jingkun and Yidi had won men’s and women’s singles titles respectively in the inaugural edition of the tournament

by Richard Miller (US)

NBA: THUNDER at ROCKETS | FULL GAME HIGHLIGHTS | December 6, 2023

The Houston Rockets defeated the Oklahoma City Thunder, 110-101. Dillon Brooks led the way with 23 points, 4 rebounds, and 2 assists for the Rockets, while Aaron Holiday added a season-high 22 points (6-7 3PM), 6 rebounds, and 4 assists in the victory. Shai Gilgeous-Alexander tallied 33 points, 6 assists, and 3 rebounds for the Thunder. The Rockets improve to 9-9 in the regular season, while the Thunder fall to 13-7.

by Matt Windsor (US)

MLB: Boston Red Sox Acquire Promising Pitcher Justin Slaten in Exchange Deal with New York Mets

Boston, MA: In a significant move to bolster their pitching lineup, the Boston Red Sox announced the acquisition of right-handed pitcher Justin Slaten from the New York Mets. This deal, which includes the exchange of minor league left-handed pitcher Ryan Ammons and cash considerations, brings a promising new talent to the Red Sox roster.

About Justin Slaten:

  • Career Progression: 26-year-old Slaten was recently selected by the Mets from the Texas Rangers in the Rule 5 Draft. His impressive performance in the 2023 season, with a 2.87 ERA and a remarkable 12.97 strikeouts per 9.0 innings, caught the eye of the Red Sox scouts.
  • 2023 Performance: Slaten played 40 games, including one start, with Double-A Frisco and Triple-A Round Rock, showcasing his potential with 86 strikeouts and a .206 opponent batting average.
  • Triple-A Experience: After being promoted to Round Rock on September 12, Slaten recorded a stellar 1.08 ERA and a .107 opponent batting average in five games.
  • Draft and Early Career: Hailing from Texas, Slaten was a third-round pick in the 2019 First-Year Player Draft by Texas. Throughout his minor league career, spanning 97 games (35 starts), he has maintained a 5.31 ERA.

About Ryan Ammons:

  • Background: The 22-year-old Ammons, a 10th round pick in the 2023 First-Year Player Draft by the Red Sox, is a graduate of Clemson University. He demonstrated his abilities over four seasons (2020-23) at Clemson, recording a 4.35 ERA with 13 saves in 47 games.
  • Post-Draft Career: Despite being drafted, Ammons has not yet pitched for a Red Sox affiliate.

Impact on the Red Sox:

  • With Slaten’s acquisition, the Red Sox aims to strengthen their pitching department. Slaten’s addition to the team is seen as a strategic move, given his impressive minor league track record and potential for growth.
  • Boston’s 40-man roster now stands at 38 players, indicating room for further team development and acquisitions.

This exchange signifies the Red Sox’s commitment to nurturing promising talent and enhancing their competitive edge in the upcoming seasons​​.

BOSTON RED SOX 40-MAN ROSTER (38)

Pitchers (24): Brayan Bello, Brennan Bernardino, Isaiah Campbell, Kutter Crawford, Wikelman Gonzalez, Tanner Houck, Joe Jacques, Kenley Jansen, Zack Kelly, Mauricio Llovera, Chris Martin, Bryan Mata, Chris Murphy, Luis Perales, Nick Pivetta, Nick Robertson, Chris Sale, John Schreiber, Justin Slaten, Brandon Walter, Zack Weiss, Greg Weissert, Garrett Whitlock, Josh Winckowski

Catchers (2): Reese McGuire, Connor Wong

Infielders (6): Triston Casas, Bobby Dalbec, Rafael Devers, David Hamilton, Trevor Story, Enmanuel Valdez

Outfielders (4): Wilyer Abreu, Jarren Duran, Rob Refsnyder, Masataka Yoshida

Infielder/Outfielders (2): Ceddanne Rafaela, Pablo Reyes

by Steve Murphy PL

Manchester United Overcomes Chelsea 2-1 at Old Trafford with McTominay’s Brace

In an intense Premier League clash, Manchester United secured a hard-fought 2-1 victory over Chelsea at Old Trafford, with Scott McTominay playing the hero’s role by scoring both goals for the Red Devils.

How the Match Unfolded

High-Octane Start and Missed Opportunities
The match started with high energy, characterized by an astounding 41 shots between the two sides. Manchester United dominated the early exchanges and were awarded a penalty in the 8th minute after Antony was fouled by Enzo Fernandez. However, Bruno Fernandes’ spot-kick was saved by Chelsea’s Robert Sanchez, maintaining the deadlock.

McTominay’s Opening Goal
Manchester United broke the stalemate in the 20th minute. Following a blocked shot from Harry Maguire, Scott McTominay seized the opportunity, scoring with a well-placed finish into the bottom-right corner.

Chelsea’s Response
Chelsea goalkeeper Sanchez made several key saves, keeping the Blues in the game. This resilience paid off when Cole Palmer, a lifelong Manchester United fan, equalized for Chelsea with a well-taken goal just before half-time.

Second Half Dynamics
The second half was more evenly contested, with McTominay continuing to threaten Chelsea’s goal. His efforts finally paid off in the 70th minute when he headed in Alejandro Garnacho’s cross, marking his second goal of the game.

Close Calls and Final Whistle
McTominay narrowly missed out on a hat-trick, while Chelsea’s substitute Armando Broja had a chance to equalize in stoppage time, but his effort was comfortably saved by United’s Andre Onana.

Match Aftermath

Manchester United’s victory, led by McTominay’s impressive performance, propels them to sixth place with 27 points, just three behind fourth-placed Manchester City. Chelsea, on the other hand, remains in 10th place with 19 points.

This match showcased not only Manchester United’s attacking prowess but also highlighted their resilience in holding off a determined Chelsea side. As the season progresses, both teams will look to build on their performances, with United eyeing a top-four spot and Chelsea seeking to climb the table.

by Matt Windsor (US)

MLB: Washington Nationals Boost Infield by Selecting Prospect Nasim Nuñez in 2023 Rule 5 Draft

The Washington Nationals have made a significant addition to their roster by selecting infielder Nasim Nuñez in the Major League phase of the 2023 Rule 5 Draft. This move, announced by Nationals President of Baseball Operations and General Manager Mike Rizzo, marks a notable acquisition for the team.

Nuñez, aged 23, comes from the Miami Marlins system, where he was recognized as a highly talented prospect. Baseball America ranked him as the No. 6 prospect in Miami’s system for the 2024 season. His skills have been widely acknowledged, with Baseball America citing him as having the best strike-zone discipline, being the fastest baserunner, the best defensive infielder, and having the best infield arm among Marlins Minor Leaguers. His prowess was further highlighted by being named the Most Valuable Player of the 2023 SiriusXM All-Star Futures Game and a Rising Star in the 2023 Arizona Fall League.

As a switch-hitter, Nuñez demonstrated his abilities in the 2023 season with Double-A Pensacola. He led the Southern League and was tied for third in all of Double-A with 52 stolen bases. Additionally, he ranked fourth with 87 walks in 125 games. His overall performance included a batting average of .224 with 11 doubles, two triples, five homers, 43 RBIs, and 84 runs scored.

Nuñez also made an impact in the 2022 season, tying for third in all of Minor League Baseball with 70 stolen bases. Since the start of the 2019 season, he has accumulated 155 career stolen bases, the fifth-most in all of Minor League Baseball during this period.

Before joining the Marlins, Nuñez was recognized as the best defensive shortstop in the 2019 First-Year Player Draft by MLB.com. He was selected by the Marlins in the second round out of Collins Hill High School in Suwanee, Georgia.

With Nuñez’s addition, the Nationals’ 40-man roster now stands at 39 players. This strategic move is expected to enhance the team’s infield depth and bring dynamic skills to the Nationals’ game plan.

by Matt Windsor (US)

MLB: Dodgers Re-Sign Right Fielder Jason Heyward to One-Year, $9 Million Contract

The Los Angeles Dodgers have recently bolstered their roster by signing right fielder Jason Heyward to a one-year contract valued at $9 million. Heyward, 34, is set to embark on his second season with the Dodgers, following a notable performance last season where he batted .269 with 15 home runs and 40 RBIs in 124 games. His proficiency was particularly evident against right-handed pitchers, with whom he had a .276 batting average, 13 home runs, and 38 RBIs.

Heyward’s career in the Major Leagues spans 14 seasons, during which he has played for the Atlanta Braves, St. Louis Cardinals, Chicago Cubs, and the Dodgers. Known for his defensive skills, he is a four-time winner of the Rawlings Gold Glove Award. His career statistics include a .258 batting average, 174 home runs, and 681 RBIs. Heyward’s journey in the Majors began with the Atlanta Braves in 2010, where he made an immediate impact as a 20-year-old, finishing second in the Rookie of the Year voting and earning a spot on the All-Star team.

Drafted by the Braves in the first round of the 2007 First Year Player Draft, Heyward’s return to the Dodgers is a testament to his enduring skill and value to the team, both as a seasoned player and a formidable presence in the outfield.

by Matt Windsor (US)

MLB: Astros Acquire Pitcher Dylan Coleman from Royals in Exchange for Minor Leaguer Carlos Mateo

The Houston Astros have announced a significant player transaction, acquiring right-handed pitcher (RHP) Dylan Coleman from the Kansas City Royals. The trade involves sending RHP Carlos Mateo to the Royals. Dana Brown, the General Manager of the Astros, confirmed this exchange.

Dylan Coleman, 27, has an impressive track record with the Royals. Over the past three seasons (2021-2023), he has made 96 Major League appearances, primarily as a reliever. His Major League career stats include a 5-4 record, a 3.88 ERA, 57 walks, and 99 strikeouts over 92.1 innings pitched. In 2022, Coleman had an exceptional season, recording a 2.78 ERA in 68 relief appearances. However, his performance in 2023 saw a dip, as he split his time between Triple A Omaha and the Majors with an 8.84 ERA over 23 games.

Carlos Mateo, the 19-year-old player traded to the Royals, participated in seven games for the Astros’ Florida Complex League team in 2023, maintaining a 5.19 ERA. In 2022, he played in the Dominican Summer League, where he held a 2.63 ERA across 10 appearances.

This trade leaves the Astros with 39 players on their 40-man roster, suggesting potential for future additions or adjustments to the team lineup.

by Matt Windsor (US)

MLB: Cardinals Legend Yadier Molina Joins Front Office as Special Assistant to President of Baseball Operations

The St. Louis Cardinals recently announced a significant addition to their front office by naming Yadier Molina, a distinguished former catcher and franchise icon, as a special assistant to John Mozeliak, the president of baseball operations. This appointment marks a new chapter for Molina, who has been synonymous with the Cardinals throughout his remarkable career.

Molina’s tenure with the Cardinals is nothing short of legendary. Over 19 Major League seasons, all with St. Louis, he appeared in 2,224 games, setting a record for the most games played behind the plate by a catcher for a single team. His illustrious career includes nine Rawlings Gold Glove awards, four Platinum Glove awards, and ten selections as a National League All-Star. Notably, Molina and teammate Adam Wainwright hold the Major League record for 328 starts as a battery duo.

Molina was instrumental in leading the Cardinals to four World Series appearances (2004, 2006, 2011, 2013), clinching the championship in 2006 and 2011. He holds the franchise record for the most postseason games played (104) and hits (102). During his playing career, which began on June 3, 2004, the Cardinals were rarely out of postseason contention, being eliminated in only 24 of the 2,921 games played.

Beyond his on-field achievements, Molina’s contributions extend to his community involvement. He was the recipient of the 2018 Roberto Clemente Award, the highest honor in Major League Baseball for community service. Additionally, he was honored by his teammates with the 2015 Darryl Kile Award. After retiring following the 2022 season, Molina also gained managerial experience, leading the Puerto Rican team in the 2023 World Baseball Classic and managing Navegantes del Magallanes in the Venezuelan Professional Baseball League in 2022.

Drafted by the Cardinals in the fourth round of the 2000 MLB Draft from Bayamon, Puerto Rico, Molina’s return to the Cardinals in a leadership role is a testament to his enduring legacy and the respect he commands within the organization. In his new position, he will provide invaluable insights and guidance both at the major league level and within the minor league system, leveraging his extensive experience and deep understanding of the game.

by Abhishek Shukla

Match Highlights | Mohun Bagan Super Giant vs Odisha FC | ISL 2023-24

A thrilling showdown concludes with Mohun Bagan Super Giant staging a comeback from being two-down to secure a 2-2 draw against Odisha FC. However, the game’s conclusion saw tense moments unfold as players from both teams clashed, leading to a red card for MBSG coach Juan Ferrando and OFC player Diego Mauricio, Armando Sadiku,

https://youtu.be/EPv1_yRWJ-4?si=rHLG02g3KxfexCPn
by Abhishek Shukla

Highlights| Halkbank Spor Kulübü vs. Suntory Sunbirds – Pool B| Men’s Club World Championship 23

In an impressive display at the Men’s Volleyball Club World Championship 2023, Japan’s Suntory Sunbirds marked their tournament debut with a decisive victory. Competing in Pool B at the Koramangala Indoor Stadium in Bangalore, the Sunbirds faced off against Turkey’s Halkbank Spor Kulubu. Despite initial challenges, the Japanese team swiftly gained momentum, dominating the match in straight sets with scores of 25-23, 25-23, 25-16. This victory, achieved in just over an hour, not only showcased the Sunbirds’ skill and determination but also earned them three full points, setting a high bar for their participation in the tournament as the first Japanese club to compete in the Club World Championship.