Tag: Indian sports news

  • ICC Womens World Cup 2025 May Remain Just Out of Reach! Will India’s Thorn Be Barun, Not Australia?

    ICC Womens World Cup 2025 May Remain Just Out of Reach! Will India’s Thorn Be Barun, Not Australia?

    Excitement is already buzzing among fans of the ‘Women in Blue’ ahead of the ICC Womens World Cup 2025 semifinals. India’s team, overcoming a losing streak, thoroughly outplayed New Zealand to secure their semifinal spot. Harmanpreet Kaur and her teammates have shown that they will not go down easily. However, weather could become a major obstacle on India’s path to the dream final.

    The semifinal between India and Australia will be held on Thursday at the Navi Mumbai ground. This same venue has posed significant weather-related challenges in India’s previous two matches. Against New Zealand, the game had to be shortened, and against Bangladesh, play was halted within minutes due to rain. Weather forecasts predict heavy rain with thunderstorms on Tuesday and Wednesday, with intermittent showers possible even on Thursday.

    Indian fans are already anxious. The question on everyone’s mind is: “What happens if the match is completely washed out due to rain?” According to ICC rules, every effort will be made to complete the match on the scheduled day. Matches can be shortened to ensure a result. However, if no ball is bowled on the scheduled day, the match will be played on the reserve day, which is Friday for the semifinals.

    Gambhir Stands by Suryakumar as Gear Up for India vs Australia

    In special situations, if the match starts but rain interrupts play, the remainder of the game will be continued on the reserve day. There is, however, one condition: both teams must have the opportunity to play a minimum of 20 overs. On the reserve day, play may begin much later than originally scheduled if needed.

    Even with these safeguards, fear lingers. If rain disrupts play on the reserve day as well, disappointment will be inevitable for Indian fans. In such a scenario, the finalist will be determined based on the points table. Since India is behind Australia on points, Australia would advance to the final.

    Past experiences show that the Indian women’s cricket team can perform exceptionally under pressure. Defeating New Zealand to secure a semifinal spot and rallying after defeats prove their resilience. Yet this time, fans are more worried because India’s dream final is threatened by the rain.

    Cristiano Ronaldo Eyes High-Stakes Clash with Al-Ittihad

    This World Cup semifinal is not just a contest on the field—it is also a battle against the weather. If the Indian team can play patiently and luck favors them, they could still advance to the final. Otherwise, missing the semifinal due to rain would mean a heartbreaking exit from the World Cup for the team and its supporters.

    As the shadow of rain looms closer, excitement continues to rise. The India vs Australia semifinal is not just a cricket match—it’s a duel with the elements. Cricket fans now eagerly await Thursday’s reserve day, which will determine the fate of Indian women’s cricket: will they dash to the final, or will their dreams come to an end?

  • Several Star Players Missing Against Dempo! Who Makes the Starting XI?

    Several Star Players Missing Against Dempo! Who Makes the Starting XI?

    Despite a shaky start to the season, Mohun Bagan Super Giant have gradually found their rhythm. After a disappointing Durand Cup campaign, the Green-and-Maroon brigade bounced back strongly to achieve glory in the historic IFA Shield.

    In the group stage, Mohun Bagan defeated strong teams like Gokulam Kerala FC and United Sports Club to reach the final, where they faced arch-rivals East Bengal. After a goalless draw in regulation time, the match was decided by a thrilling penalty shoot-out — and it was Mohun Bagan who had the last laugh. That victory brought the IFA Shield back to the club after nearly 22 long years, sparking joy among fans.

    Now, the Mariners are determined to carry that winning momentum into the Super Cup, with eyes firmly set on the trophy. In their first match, Jason Cummings and his teammates registered a crucial victory over Clifford Miranda’s Chennaiyin FC, earning three valuable points and taking the top spot in their group.

    On Tuesday evening, they face Dempo SC in their second group-stage encounter. During their recent training session in Goa, the mood in the Bagan camp appeared upbeat and confident.

    However, head coach Jose Molina wasn’t entirely pleased with the training facilities. Speaking to the media, he said:

    “The weather is not in our control, but the condition of the training ground is terrible. It’s hard to practice here. Still, I don’t want to make excuses — the boys will give their best.”

    Indeed, concerns over the condition of the grounds and surrounding infrastructure have been a recurring issue since the start of the Super Cup. Any moment of negligence could lead to serious injuries, which has naturally frustrated players and coaches alike.

    Despite the challenges and the absence of a few key stars due to injuries and rotation, the Mariners are ready for the battle against Dempo.

    Mohun Bagan Super Giant’s Playing XI (Super Cup 2025):

  • Suryakumar Yadav explosive on Jasprit Bumrah’s Experience Ahead of T20I Series in Australia

    Suryakumar Yadav explosive on Jasprit Bumrah’s Experience Ahead of T20I Series in Australia

    Indian T20 captain Suryakumar Yadav has highlighted the immense value of Jasprit Bumrah experience in Australian conditions, ahead of India’s upcoming T20I series Down Under. The pacer’s familiarity with the pitches, weather, and game scenarios in Australia is expected to play a crucial role in India’s campaign.

    Speaking to the media, Yadav said, “I think the way he has played his cricket for the last so many years, he has kept himself right on the top, and he knows how to prepare for a good series.” The Indian skipper emphasised that Bumrah’s experience is a key asset for the team, especially in conditions that are vastly different from those in India.

    Shami-Shahbaz Duo Steer Bengal to Back-to-Back Wins in Ranji Trophy 2025

    Bumrah, 31, is widely regarded as India’s pace spearhead across formats, and his record in Australia underlines his success. In T20 Internationals, he has played six matches, claiming eight wickets, while in One-Day Internationals, he has taken six wickets in four games. However, it is in Test cricket where he has truly excelled in Australia. Across 12 Tests, Bumrah has scalped 64 wickets, including four five-wicket hauls, showcasing his ability to adapt and dominate on fast and bouncy tracks.

    “He knows how to come and play cricket here. He has been here; he has visited this country the most of all the guys. So all of them have spoken to him. He is very open and very helpful in that,” Yadav added, underlining the pacer’s role not just as a performer but also as a guide for younger players in the squad.

    Bumrah’s overall tally in Australia across formats is impressive. He has played 22 matches, picking up 78 wickets. In T20Is against Australia specifically, he has featured in 14 matches, claiming 17 wickets. Such experience is invaluable, especially in a series that demands adaptability and tactical awareness.

    Sujeet Kalkal Strikes Gold as Indian Wrestlers End with Nine Medals

    For this tour, Bumrah will feature only in the five-match T20I series, as part of India’s workload management strategy. He was rested for the three-match ODI series, ensuring that he remains fresh and fit for the high-intensity T20 encounters. During his last Test tour of Australia, Bumrah was in sensational form, taking 31 wickets in just six matches, finishing as the top wicket-taker for India with an average of 13.06, a testament to his skill and consistency.

    “Yeah, definitely when he takes the ground, starts from tomorrow, it will be a good thing; it’s good to have him in the squad when we play in Australia,” Yadav remarked, expressing confidence in Bumrah’s ability to lead India’s pace attack and mentor other bowlers.

    India’s T20I squad for the tour is a blend of youth and experience, with Suryakumar Yadav as captain and Shubman Gill as vice-captain. The squad includes Abhishek Sharma, Tilak Varma, Nitish Kumar Reddy, Shivam Dube, Axar Patel, Jitesh Sharma (WK), Varun Chakaravarthy, Jasprit Bumrah, Arshdeep Singh, Kuldeep Yadav, Harshit Rana, Sanju Samson (WK), Rinku Singh, and Washington Sundar. With a mix of established performers and emerging talent, India will look to make a strong impression in Australia.

    Bumrah’s presence in the squad not only strengthens the bowling attack but also provides guidance to younger players adapting to foreign conditions. His experience, skill, and calm temperament make him a key figure for India’s ambitions in Australia, a country known for challenging playing conditions.

    As India prepares to take on Australia in the T20I series, all eyes will be on Bumrah to deliver match-winning performances and set the tone for the rest of the squad. His knowledge of Australian pitches, coupled with his disciplined bowling, could prove decisive in a tightly contested series.

  • Shami-Shahbaz Duo Steer Bengal to Back-to-Back Wins in Ranji Trophy 2025

    Shami-Shahbaz Duo Steer Bengal to Back-to-Back Wins in Ranji Trophy 2025

    Bengal continued their impressive run in the Ranji Trophy 2025 as they secured a commanding victory over Gujarat at Eden Gardens, collecting six crucial points in their second consecutive win. The star pace duo of Mohammed Shami and Shahbaz Ahmed once again proved decisive, turning the match in Bengal’s favor.

    After a stellar performance in the first match, Shami carried his form into the second, claiming eight wickets against Gujarat, including a five-wicket haul in the second innings. Shahbaz, returning from injury, complemented him superbly, taking nine wickets across both innings. Together, their lethal bowling dismantled the Gujarat lineup, restricting them to just 141 runs in the second innings and sealing a 141-run win for Bengal.

    India Young Tigresses Stay Unbeaten in Kazakhstan

    Gujarat’s fightback on the fourth day had started promisingly. The partnership between Urvil Patel and Jaymit Patel had created difficulties for the home team. However, an unexpected injury to Urvil, who retired hurt, allowed Umesh Kumar to step in. Shahbaz’s sharp bowling quickly ended Gujarat’s resistance, and Shami’s magic in the final session, including three consecutive wickets, completely swung the match in Bengal’s favor. Even Urvil, who returned to score 109, could not salvage the innings.

    Earlier, Bengal’s first innings saw them post a total of 279 runs, with contributions from Sumanta Gupta (63), Abhishek Porel (51), and Sudip Kumar Gharami (56). Gujarat, in response, struggled under disciplined Bengal bowling. Only Manan Hingrajia (80) showed resistance as Shahbaz picked up six wickets for 34 runs. Gujarat were bowled out for 167, giving Bengal a significant 112-run lead.

    In the second innings, Bengal’s batting, though steady, drew some criticism for being overly cautious. Sudip Kumar Gharami and Anustup Majumdar both scored half-centuries, with Gharami registering back-to-back fifties across the innings. While the team faced criticism for not accelerating the scoring, the cautious approach proved effective in the context of weather interruptions and fading light, which could have prematurely ended play on multiple days. Bengal managed 214/8 declared, setting Gujarat a challenging target of 327 runs.

    Sujeet Kalkal Strikes Gold as Indian Wrestlers End with Nine Medals

    Urvil Patel initially gave Gujarat hope with a brisk knock, threatening a potential draw. But Shami and Shahbaz’s incisive bowling dismantled the batting lineup. Shami dismissed Abhishek Desai and Manan early, while Akash Deep removed Arya Desai. The Patel duo’s promising partnership was broken by Shahbaz, after which Shami took charge, picking up five wickets for just 38 runs. Shahbaz took three wickets in the second innings, bringing his match tally to nine.

    The combined brilliance of Shami and Shahbaz ensured Bengal’s dominance, allowing them to comfortably secure a 141-run victory. With this win, Bengal now has 12 points from two matches, signaling a strong start to their Ranji Trophy campaign.

    Shami’s pace and experience, paired with Shahbaz’s all-round capabilities, continue to be the cornerstone of Bengal’s resurgence in domestic cricket. On the other hand, Gujarat will need to regroup after depending heavily on individual performances, most notably Urvil Patel’s unbeaten century, to stay competitive.

    Match Summary:

    Bengal: 279 & 214/8 (declared)

    Gujarat: 167 & 185

    Result: Bengal won by 141 runs
  • Sujeet Kalkal Strikes Gold as Indian Wrestlers End with Nine Medals

    Sujeet Kalkal Strikes Gold as Indian Wrestlers End with Nine Medals

    Indian Wrestlers wrapped up its campaign at the U23 World Wrestling Championships 2025 in Serbia on a high note, securing a total of nine medals — one gold, two silver, and six bronze. The remarkable performance marked another successful year for the young Indian wrestling contingent, underlining the country’s growing prowess in both men’s and women’s wrestling on the global stage.

    The highlight of the tournament came on the final day when Sujeet Kalkal clinched the gold medal in the men’s freestyle 65kg category, delivering a dominant performance that left wrestling fans in awe. Sujeet faced Uzbekistan’s Umidjon Jalolov, a senior world championships bronze medallist and former U20 world champion, in the final bout. The Indian wrestler showcased complete technical mastery, overpowering Jalolov 10-0 via technical superiority to secure the title.

    This triumph was particularly special as it was India’s only medal in the men’s freestyle events at this edition and also its fourth-ever gold medal in the history of the U23 World Wrestling Championships, which has seen eight editions so far.

    India’s previous gold medallists at the U23 Worlds include Aman Sehrawat, who became the first Indian to win gold in 2022 (men’s 57kg category), Reetika Hooda, who triumphed under the United World Wrestling (UWW) flag in the women’s 76kg division in 2023, and Chirag Chikkara, who claimed the top podium in men’s 57kg at last year’s edition in Tirana, Albania.

    Strong Start with Greco-Roman Medal

    India’s medal campaign began with Vishvajit More, who secured a bronze medal in the men’s Greco-Roman 55kg category. Interestingly, this was More’s second consecutive bronze at the U23 World Championships — a testament to his consistency at the global level. Coincidentally, he also opened India’s medal tally at the 2024 edition, reflecting his continued reliability in the Greco-Roman discipline.

    Women Wrestlers Dominate with Team Title

    The Indian women wrestlers were the standout performers of the tournament, clinching the team title with an impressive haul of two silver and five bronze medals. Their collective effort demonstrated both depth and resilience across multiple weight categories.

    Priya Malik, a former U20 world champion, earned India’s first women’s freestyle medal at the 2025 championships by winning bronze in the 76kg category. Her podium finish reaffirmed her status as one of India’s most promising young grapplers.

    Joining her on the podium was Neha Sharma, the reigning Asian U20 champion, who captured bronze in the women’s 57kg division. The victory added a third U23 Worlds medal to her growing international resume.

    Another highlight came from Nishu, who stunned the competition in the women’s 55kg category. She defeated 2024 world champion Moe Kiyooka of Japan in a thrilling round-of-16 bout before eventually settling for a bronze medal. Her victory over the Japanese star was one of the biggest upsets of the championship and a sign of India’s growing depth in women’s wrestling.

    In the silver medal tally, Sarika (59kg) and Hansika Lamba (53kg) both reached the finals in their respective categories, earning silver medals after impressive runs through the draw. Though they narrowly missed out on gold, their performances played a crucial role in India clinching the women’s team crown.

    India’s Rising Wrestling Power

    With a final tally of one gold, two silver, and six bronze medals, India once again proved its mettle on the world stage. The performance was particularly encouraging as the country fielded one wrestler in nearly every category, competing against over 700 athletes from around the world.

    The results also underscore India’s growing strength at the developmental level, as the U23 competition serves as a vital platform for future Olympians and senior world championship contenders. The emergence of new names like Sujeet Kalkal and the continued success of established young stars such as Priya Malik and Neha Sharma point to a bright future for Indian wrestling.

    As India closes the 2025 U23 World Wrestling Championships with pride, the country’s grapplers have once again demonstrated that they belong among the world’s best — a promising sign ahead of future senior world events and the road to the 2028 Olympics.