Tuesday, May 12
Aakash Chopra suggests Gautam Gambhir's preference for bowlers who can bat might be limiting Kuldeep Yadav's opportunities, despite his improved red-ball form. Kuldeep didn't feature in the England Test series, raising questions about his role under Gambhir's coaching approach. While he's in the Asia Cup squad, a significant role may have to wait for home conditions.
PV Sindhu displayed remarkable resilience at the BWF World Championships, overcoming a shaky start to defeat Malaysia's Letshanaa Karupathevan in the women’s singles. After a tough first game where she trailed significantly, Sindhu rallied to secure a 21-19, 21-15 victory. This win propels the two-time Olympic medallist into the pre-quarterfinals, keeping her hopes alive for another world title.
Ravichandran Ashwin, the veteran Indian off-spinner, has announced his retirement from the IPL after a stellar 17-year career. Ashwin expressed gratitude to the franchises and the BCCI. He hinted at exploring opportunities in other global leagues like The Hundred and SA T20. The veteran spinner ended his IPL career with the Chennai Super Kings.
Neeraj Chopra, despite his impressive 90.23m throw in Doha, believes he's yet to achieve technical perfection. Ahead of the Diamond League Finals in Zurich, Chopra highlighted the need to better utilize his run-up speed and improve his blocking technique. He credited coach Jan Zelezny for his guidance and emphasized the importance of adapting to external conditions.
Indian weightlifters showcased a dominant performance at the Commonwealth Weightlifting Championships in Ahmedabad. Ajith Narayana and Nirupama Devi Seram secured gold and silver medals respectively in senior events. Hemanta Doimari and Bidusmita Bhoi won gold in the junior category. Narayana also set new Commonwealth records. The strong showing highlighted India's strength in weightlifting at the Commonwealth level.
The Asia Cup 2025 is embroiled in controversy after Sony Sports Network's promotional video, highlighting the India-Pakistan rivalry, sparked outrage due to heightened tensions following a terror attack. Fans are calling for boycotts, overshadowing India's first major tournament without Kohli and Sharma. Suryakumar Yadav leads a youthful squad in Group A, facing UAE, Oman, and Pakistan.
India's Union Cabinet, under Prime Minister Modi, has approved a bid to host the 2030 Commonwealth Games in Ahmedabad. This decision includes signing a Host Collaboration Agreement and providing financial support to Gujarat. The Games, featuring 72 nations, aim to boost tourism, create jobs, and inspire young athletes, utilising facilities like the Narendra Modi Stadium.
Mark Wood, the England fast bowler, finds Rohit Sharma the toughest batter. Wood says Sharma's mastery over short balls makes him hard to get out. Wood played in England's 2019 ODI World Cup and 2022 T20 World Cup wins. He balances county cricket with franchise cricket. Wood is known for his express pace, often exceeding 145 kmph.
Anish Bhanwala clinched a silver medal in the rapid fire pistol event at the Asian Shooting Championships in Kazakhstan. The Indian team also secured silver in the team event, while South Korea took gold. In the non-Olympic 50m pistol discipline, the Indian team won silver, and the junior team claimed gold.
Cricketers, including Michael Clarke, Richie Benaud, and Yuvraj Singh, have faced cancer battles, highlighting the disease's impact across generations. Clarke recently underwent his sixth skin cancer surgery, urging fans to take preventive measures.
