Haryananewswire

Angad Cheema coasts to four-shot win at Coal India Open 2025

2025-08-09T17:19:00.000-07:00

Angad Cheema receives the trophy from Mr. Mayank Chandela, representing Beverage Partner - Reliance Consumer Products Limited. The other dignitaries seen in the picture are Mr. Lokinder Malik, GM, Kensville Golf & Country Club (extreme right) & Mr. Amandeep Johl, CEO, PGTI (extreme left).

Angad Cheema coasts to four-shot win at Coal India Open 2025

AHMEDABAD, AUG 9

Chandigarh’s Angad Cheema continued from where he left at the PGTI’s mid-season break. Angad, the winner of the last event in the first half of the season, made it back-to-back titles after he lifted the trophy in the first event of the season’s second half, the INR 1 crore Coal India Open 2025, played at the Kensville Golf & Country Club in Ahmedabad.

Angad Cheema (69-67-69-70) fired a two-under 70 in round four to end up with a week’s total of 13-under 275. It was the 35-year-old Cheema’s fourth PGTI win and second triumph of the season. Angad took home the winner’s cheque worth INR 15 lakh that lifted him from 10^th to second position in the PGTI Order of Merit as his season’s earnings went to INR 55,56,726.

Noida’s Amardeep Malik (69-65-72-73) signed for a one-over 73 in the final round to secure a runner-up finish. Amardeep thus climbed 27 spots to 21st position in the PGTI Order of Merit.

Delhi’s Shaurya Bhattacharya (70) and Pune’s Udayan Mane (71) claimed tied third place at seven-under 281.

Yuvraj Sandhu (71) of Chandigarh ended the week in fifth place at six-under 282 to continue in the lead in the PGTI’s money list with his season’s earnings amounting to INR 58,67,200.

Angad Cheema, the overnight leader by one shot, built on his lead over the front-nine on Friday by accumulating four birdies in exchange for a bogey. Then on the back-nine, Angad’s two long birdie conversions from a range of 15 to 25 feet saw him home despite his three dropped shots on the 12^th and 17^th.

Angad, who drew on his experience of playing the qualifying event of The Open this summer in the UK, said, “It was a brilliant week as I played well from start to finish and did not make many mistakes. I’d say I just ended up putting better than others. I made some long conversions in every round. I would like to give credit for my great putting this week to my caddie Khushi Ram who gave me the correct lines and speed on the greens.

“It was good fun playing alongside my close friend and roommate Amardeep in the last two rounds. We share a great equation and thus we enjoyed a lot of light-hearted banter playing in the leader group over the last two days which just eased the atmosphere.

“It feels great to win back-to-back and adds to my determination to play even better going forward,” added Cheema, who ended an 11-year title drought last season.

Amardeep Malik, who trailed Cheema by one shot after round three, mixed three birdies with four bogeys on day four to slip out of contention.

Delhi-based amateur Rakshit Dahiya won the trophy for the best performance by an amateur after he finished tied 10th at one-under 287.

Ahmedabad’s Varun Parikh took tied 19th position as he closed the week with a total of one-over 289.

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CHA-42 men and SGGS Hockey Club-26 women champions

2025-06-25T17:11:00.000-07:00

CHA-42 men and SGGS Hockey Club-26 women champions

CHANDIGARH, JUNE 25

Chandigarh Hockey Academy, Sector 42 and SGGS Hockey Club, Sector 26 won the men’s and women’s trophies, respectively, in the Chandigarh State Hockey Championships at the Sector 42 Hockey Stadium here.

The men’s final was evenly contested as the regulation period ended in a 4-4 draw. CH Academy clinched the issue in their favour by scoring three goals against two by SGGS Hockey Club, Sector 26 in the shootout session. CHA-42 won by an aggregate margin of 7-6.

In the stipulated period CHA-42 found the object through Anmolpreet (14th), Parambir (17th), Sahil (37th) and Punit (40th).

Prabhjot (26th, 59th) and Prabhjot Junior (30th and 45th) put up good show as they contributed a brace each.

PU Hockey Club grabbed the third position after beating Rock Rovers Hockey Club by 6-0. Prince emerged the winners by posting three goals in the 17th, 40th, 49th minutes. Sourabh (20th), Suraj (21st) and Kunalpreet (41st) contributed one goal each.

SGGS Hockey Club, Sector 26 emerged victorious by defeating Chandigarh Hockey Academy-Blue by 5-2 in the women's final.

SGGS Hockey Club, Sector 26 started their campaign by opening their account in the fourth minute through Gurmail who scored a field goal. Gurmail doubled the score as he beat the defence to score in the 12th minute. Gurmail himself rounded off the winner’s tally with his third field goal in the 44th minute.

Kajal (20th) and Kamaldeep (40th) scored one goal each for the winners

Anjali struck the first goal for CHA-Blue in the 14th minute. Annu got the second goal for CHA-Blue in the 26th minute.

For the third position CHA-Red outclassed PU Hockey Club by 7-1. Prinka (1st), Tamanna (34th, 52nd, 55th), Anjali (38th), and Ram Bhateri (42nd) and 58th) were the star performers for CHA-Red. The lone goal for PU Hockey Club was scored by Ritika in the 28th minute.

Meanwhile Hockey Chandigarh celebrated the Olympic Day, 2025 as per the guidelines of Hockey India.

According to Anil Vohra, Vice President., Hockey Chandigarh about 500 sports persons from different sports of Chandigarh along with their coaches were present to celebrate the Olympic Day.

Senior office bearers and members of Hockey Chandigarh Mahender Singh Joint Director Sports, Dr. Pushvinderjit Singh, Sr. Vice President, Rajinder Gandhi, Sarvesh Sharma, Ajay Singh, Madam S.K. Goswami, Dr. G.S.Gill, Gurminder Singh were among those who were present on the occasion..

Director Sports U.T Chandigarh Sorabh Kumar Aroragave away the trophies and medals to the winners, runners-up and third positions holders.

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SGGSH Club- 26 face CHA-42 in final

2025-06-22T22:56:00.000-07:00

SGGSH Club- 26 face CHA-42 in final

CHANDIGARH, JUNE 22

SGGSH Club- 26 will meet Chandigarh Hockey Academy-42 in the men’s final tomorrow of the Chandigarh State Junior Men & Women Hockey Championships at Sector 42 Hockey Stadium Chandigarh.

In the semi-final matches, CHA-42 outclassed Panjab University Hockey Club by 4-0 while SGGSH Club 26 emerged 3-0 winners 3 – 0 against Rock Rovers Hockey Club.

Dominating throughout the match, Chandigarh Hockey Academy scored through Puneet (15th and 28th, PCs), Sahil (31st) and Pawan (52nd) contributed one goal each.

In the second semi-final, SGGSH Club 26 defeated Rock Rovers Hockey Club by 3-0.. The winners owed their triumph to Prabhjot who scored a brace by striking in the second and fourth minutes. Prabhjot Junior wrapped up the scorecard with a field goal in the 19th minute.

SGGSHC - 26 advanced to tbe women’s final after blanking PU Hockey Club by 5-0. Kajal (6th, 7th), Gurmail (3rd, 25th) and Kamaldeep (44th) were the winners’ scorers.

In the second semi-final CHA – Blue got the better of CHA Red by 3-2, CHA-Blue scored through Annu (2nd, 34th) and Happy (47th). Tamanna (32nd) and Harvinder (41st) put up good fight as the score was 2-2 before Happy struck the match winner for CHA Blue.

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Adil and Parikshit upset top seeded pair in ATP Challenger

2025-06-20T20:24:00.000-07:00

Adil and Parikshit upset top seeded pair in ATP Challenger

ROYAN (FRANCE), JUNE 20

Indian pair of Adil Kalyanpur and Parikshit Somani advanced into the doubles final of the Royan Atlantique Open in France. In the semi-final, the Dindian partners ousted Egor Agafonov and Maxim Zhukov1-6, 6-4, 10-5.

Vijay Sundar Prashanth of India and Sergio Martos Gornes os Spain pulled off a big upset by shocking top seeds Spanish duo of Matwe Middelkoop and Jean-Julien Roger 6-7 (3), 7-6 (6), 10-7 in the doubles semi-final of Euro 145, 259 ATP Challenger Enea Poznan Open in Poland..

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A. Srinivas new Chief Election Officer of Haryana

2025-06-20T14:37:00.000-07:00

A. Srinivas new Chief Election Officer of Haryana

CHANDIGARH, JUNE 20

The Haryana Government today replaced the Chief Election Officer (CEO) of the state, Pankaj Agarwal, IAS. In his place, orders have been issued to appoint 2004 batch IAS officer A. Srinivas as CEO Haryana as well as Commissioner and Secretary, Election Department. Srinivas was earlier posted as Secretary in the Energy Department of the State Government and Managing Director of South Haryana Electricity Distribution Corporation Limited.

Advocate Hemant Kumar said that Pankaj Agarwal was posted as CEO Haryana a year ago in July 2024 and generally the tenure of the IAS officer posted on this post is three years. However, under certain special circumstances, the officer posted on the said post can be replaced by the state government even before this with the approval of the Election Commission of India.

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Manish Thakran outshines rivals to clinch maiden title

2025-06-20T14:30:00.000-07:00

Manish Thakran (2nd from right) receives the trophy from Mr. Rajiv Vadhera, COO, Malhotra Realty Pvt Ltd (2nd from left), Mr. Kranti Vadhera, MD, Malhotra Realty Pvt Ltd (extreme right) and Mr. Amandeep Johl, CEO, PGTI (extreme left).

Manish Thakran outshines rivals to clinch maiden title

LUDHIANA, JUNE 20

Gurugram-based Manish Thakran produced the best score of the third and final round, a five-under 67, to outshine all his rivals and clinch his maiden title with a total score of nine-under 171 at the PGTI NEXGEN Imperial Golf Estate here today.

The 29-year-old Thakran (36-68-67), who was overnight four shots off the lead in tied fourth position, registered a two-shot winning margin on Thursday thus picking up a cheque worth INR 2,54,300 that moved him into 11th position on the 2025 PGTI NEXGEN Order of Merit.

Chandigarh teenager Vasu Sehgal (33-67-73), the overnight leader by three shots, returned a 73 in round three to finish tied second at seven-under 173. Karnal golfer Tushar Pannu (31-72-70), who was overnight tied second, shot a 70 on day three to also finish joint runner-up.

Lucknow’s Rajesh Kumar Gautam (69) and Karnal’s Rohit Narwal (70) ended tied fourth with matching scores of six-under 174. Rajesh Kumar Gautam continues to lead the 2025 PGTI NEXGEN Order of Merit with season’s earnings of INR 5,31,900.

The Imperial Golf Estate is a par-72 nine-hole course where the nine holes were played twice to comprise a round.

Manish Thakran, who has come close to winning on the PGTI’s main tour in the past, began the day on a solid note with some brilliant tee shots and approach shots that earned him two birdies on the front-nine, both coming from a range of five feet.

Manish then made further gains on the back-nine where he scored four birdies in exchange for a solitary bogey. He sank a 30-footer for birdie on the 11th hole after which he bogeyed the 12th as a result of finding the water hazard. Thakran finally capped off his round in style with birdies on the 15th and 18th where he came up with a great bunker shot and a quality chip shot respectively.

Manish said, “Winning my first ever professional title feels special. My ball-striking was the standout feature of my game this week as I hit most of the fairways and greens. I was in good form with my driver and 3-wood.

“I focused hard today and kept it simple. The plan was to look for regulations and make as many pars as possible. This win has come after a long wait for me and now boosts my confidence going ahead. I would like to thank my home course, Classic Golf & Country Club, for being a great source of support for me.

“Playing at the Imperial Golf Estate for the first time has been an amazing experience. I really enjoyed the layout of this course and the playing conditions here. I would love to come back to the Imperial Golf Estate to play more events in the future.”

====balbirsingh227@gmail.com

Holders Rangpur Riders confirm squad for 2025 GSL

2025-06-20T14:20:00.000-07:00

Holders Rangpur Riders confirm squad for 2025 GSL

GEORGETOWN (GUYANA), JUNE 20

Defending champions Rangpur Riders have officially named their squad for the highly anticipated 2025 ExxonMobil Guyana Global Super League (GSL), set to take place at the Guyana National Stadium in Providence from 10 to 18 July.

In 2024, the Rangpur Riders were without a point after their first three matches but found their form and eventually won their last three contests to emerge champions.

With a combination of dynamic batting, disciplined bowling, and strong leadership, the Riders proved to be deserving champions of an action-packed competition.

The Rangpur Riders, one of the leading franchises in the Bangladesh Premier League (BPL), bring a rich pedigree to the GSL. Having won the BPL championship in 2017, the Riders have consistently been a playoff contender over the last three seasons, showcasing their reputation for excellence and resilience.

The Riders are eager to defend their GSL title and have retained key players to help their cause. The defending champions will once again be led by inspirational captain Nurul Hasan. The tournament’s leading run scorer in the inaugural season, Soumya Sarkar is back as is Kamrul Islam Rabbi who spearheaded the bowling attack.

To aid the local stars, the Riders have included West Indian top-order batter Kyle Mayers, South Africa’s left-arm wrist spinner bowler Tabraiz Shamsi, Pakistani all-rounder Iftikhar Ahmed and Afghanistan’s top order batter Abrahim Zadran.

The squad reflects a good mixture of youth and experience with an eye on the conditions.

RANGPUR RIDERS: Nurul Hasan Sohan, Soumya Sarkar, Mohammed Naim Sheikh, Mahidul Islam Ankon, Kamrul Islam Rabbi, Mohammed Saif Hassan, Abu Haider Rony,

Rakubul Hasan, Yasir Ali Chowdhury, Kyle Mayers, Tarbaiz Shamshi, Ibrahim Zadran, Iftikhar Ahmed Ahmed, Akif Jadav, Harmeet Singh and Khawaja Nafay.

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West Bengal Foundation Day celebrated at Haryana Raj Bhavan

2025-06-20T14:06:00.000-07:00

West Bengal Foundation Day celebrated at Haryana Raj Bhavan

CHANDIGARH, JUNE 20

Haryana Governor Shri Bandaru Dattatraya on Friday hailed West Bengal’s rich cultural and social legacy, while interacting with people from the state on the occasion of West Bengal Foundation day which was celebrated with usual fervour and enthusiasm at Raj Bhawan today. The function was chaired by Hon’ble Governor Shri Bandaru Dattatraya. Secretary to Governor Shri Atul Dwivedi was also present on the occasion.

“West Bengal boasts a rich intellectual and artistic legacy. It was the cradle of the Bengal Renaissance in the 19^th and early 20^th centuries, producing luminaries like Rabindranath Tagore, Ram Krishna Paramhans, Swami Vivekananda, Netaji Subhas Chandra Bose, Satyajit Ray, and Sri Aurobindo,” said Shri Dattatraya.

Lauding Prime Minister Shri Narendra Modi’s vision behind the ‘Ek Bharat Shreshtha Bharat’ program, Shri Dattatraya said that we should promote national integration and strengthen the fabric of unity in diversity by getting closer to the cultural value system of all States and Union Territories.

“The program ‘Ek Bharat Shreshtha Bharat’ aims to enhance understanding and bonding among the people of different States and Union Territories by fostering cultural exchange, linguistic learning, and mutual appreciation of traditions, heritage, cuisine, and lifestyle,” he said, while appreciating Bengali literature, music, and cinema have made significant contributions to Indian culture.

Governor Shri Dattatraya praised them for their contributions to the development of Haryana and Chandigarh, and promised all help to them in promoting and sustaining their cultural legacy. Shri Dattatraya also praised the contributions of Buddhist monks guided by the vision of His Holiness the Dalai Lama in promoting peace, love and compassion in the society.

Sharing his feelings on the occasion, Shri Ronil Barua, Chairman, Bengal Buddhist Association, Chandigarh, said that they were extremely happy to be settled in Chandigarh. “We came to this place after the partition from today’s Bangladesh and settled here. We are grateful to the people of Chandigarh and the region for embracing us with love, care and compassion,” said Shri Barua.

Smt Nandita Barua, while sharing her thoughts on the occasion, said that they were feeling totally integrated into the social and cultural milieu of the region. A cultural programme was also organized on the occasion. Participants included people from different walks of life including doctors, teachers and spirituality.

=====balbirsingh227@gmail.com

One-sided matches in Chandigarh Junior Men & Women Hockey

2025-06-20T14:03:00.000-07:00

One-sided matches in Chandigarh Junior Men & Women Hockey

CHANDIGARH, JUNE 20

One sided matches were witnessed in the league matches of the Chandigarh State Junior Men & Women Hockey Championships at Sector 42 Hockey Stadium here today.

In the first men’s league outing Sahil scored a brace as Chandigarh Hockey Academy beat Sri Guru Gobind Singh Senior Secondary Secondary School, Sector 35 by 2-0.

In the second match, Panjab Hockey Club outplayed Government Model High School, Sector 42 by 8-1. The solitary goal for GMHS was scored by Sarthak in the 13th minute.

In a one-sided encounter, PUHC scored through Saurabh (2nd mimute), Shivan (13th), Arman (14th, 17th), Suraj (19th, 234th) and Prince (32nd, 50th).

In the women’s league fixture SGGHC-26 blanked CHA Blue by 5-0. Muskan (6th, 20th, 54th) and Kamaldeep (12th, 37th) were the goal getters for the winners.

In the second women’s league outing CHA Red demolished PU Hockey Club by 4-0

Tamanna contributed two goals, striking in the 32nd and 51st minutes. Anjali gave CHA Red the lead by scoring a field goal in the 19th minute. Prinka rounded off the winners’ tally by hitting the target in the 59th minute.

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Sangram Bhadury and Priyanshi Katial lift singles titles

2025-06-20T13:27:00.000-07:00

Sangram Bhadury and Priyanshi Katial lift singles titles

CHANDIGARH, JUNE 20

CLTA player third seed Sangram Bhadury (MP) and Nikunj Arora won the boys under 16 and 12 singles titles, respectively, in the CLTA-AITA Championship Series (CS7) Tennis Tournament at the Sector 10 Tennis Stadium here today.

Sangram defeated another CLTA player second seed Ayaan Chandel in straight set 6-1,6-4. In the first set Sangram played in a top form and won the first set 6-1 easily. In the second set both players played high energetic game finally Sangram used his experience and close the second set and match 6-4.

In boys under 12 singles final match second seed Nikunj Arora (CH) outplayed his practice partner unseeded Manav Partap Gill (CH) 6-1,6-3 in a straight set without getting much pressure. Nikunj Arora also won boys under 12 doubles title yesterday.

Second seed Priyanshi Katial won girls under-16 single title, Priyanshi overpowered another CLTA player Japleen Kaur (CH) 6-1,6-2 in a one sided match. In girls under 12 single finals top seed Tanya Bhatnagar (HR) won from Divnoor Kaur (PB) 6-2, 6-2 in a straight set. Tanya Bhatnagar played in a top form and dominant throughout the match with her aggressive game style.

Gaurish Madaan and Ayaan Chandel lift boys under 16 double title. They defeated second seed Mahijith Kaura and Sangram Bhadury in a three setter match 2-6, 6-4, 10-7. In the boys under 12 doubles final top seed Nikunj Arora and his partner Atharv Abhiraj won from Siddharth Malik and Manav Partap in a three setter match 6-2, 3-6, 10-5.

CLTA Member Executive Committee Reet Mahinder Singh, and Chief Operating Officer distributed the prizes.

Results (all finals): Boys under-16: Sangram Bhadury (MP) [3] bt. Ayaan Chandel (CH) [2] 6-1,6-4.

Boys under 12: Nikunj Arora (CH) [2] bt. Manav Partap Gill (CH) 6-1, 6-3

Girls under 16: Priyanshi Katial (PB) [2] bt. Japleen Kaur (CH) 6-1, 6-2.

Girls under 12: Tanya Bhatnagar (HR) [1] bt. Divnoor Kaur (PB) [8] 6-2, 6-2 .

Boys under-16: Gaurish Madaan (CH)/ Ayaan Chandel (CH) [1] bt. Mahijith Kaura (PB)/Sangram Bhadury(MP)[2] 2-6,6-4,10-7.

Boys under 12: Atharv Abhiraj (PB) / Nikunj Arora (CH) [1] bt. Siddharth Malik (HR) / Manav Partap Gill (CH) 6-2,3-6,10-5.

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Pakistan clinch final against New Zealand of FIH Hockey Men’s Nations Cup

2025-06-20T13:08:00.000-07:00

Pakistan clinch final against New Zealand of FIH Hockey Men’s Nations Cup

LAUSANNE (SWITZERLAND), JUNT 20

The first day of a new stage of the Nations Cup did not disappoint as the ranking games added an extra element of risk and reward for each team. Dramatic finishes, huge celebrations and impressive goalscoring sent the tournament into tomorrow’s final games on an exciting high, reports FIH.

Wales and Japan opened the day’s play in the 5th-8th place play-offs and, not for the first time in the competition, Wales took a strong lead. Unlike the previous games, however, they held onto their advantage to pick up their first win of the tournament and progress to the 5th/6th place play-off. Japan will head into the 7th/8th place play-off to face South Africa, both sides hoping that first win will help them avoid a last-placed finish. Hosts Malaysia bounced back from Wednesday’s disappointment to beat South Africa 4-2 in a convincing performance that puts them into a final game against Wales to battle for 5th place.

Pakistan roared back against France in the first semi-final, causing a real upset in beating Les Bleus 3-2 on penalties. Led by the mercurial creative powers of Waheeb Ashraf Rana, Pakistan will be playing for a spot in the FIH Men’s Pro League against New Zealand in the final. The Blacksticks won a penalty shootout of their own, beating Korea despite a strong comeback thanks to the impressive Korean penalty corner battery. The 3rd/4th place play-off will be a repeat of the incredible Day 1 game that finished 6-5 between France and Korea.

Wales 6-4 Japan

Both sides began the 5th-8th place play-offs searching for their first win. Wales’s Fred Newbold opened the scoring on his reverse in the ninth minute, smartly beating Kisho Kuroda at his near post. Japan responded four minutes into the second quarter with a penalty corner excellently guided between ‘keeper and left-post defender by a diving Ryoma Ooka. Less than a minute later, however, and Wales had a deflection of their own after Joylon Morgan got a stick to Gareth Furlong’s penetrating slap to re-establish the Welsh lead. As the first-half neared its close, Japan won another penalty corner, one that was mis-trapped, passed back and across the circle before Koji Yamasaki volleyed a forehand hit across goal to equalise going into half-time.

Two minutes into the second half and the goals started to flow even more freely. Kazumasa Matsumoto’s rifled shot clattered against the backboard to give Japan a lead and, just a few possessions later, Sam Welsh knocked in another Welsh goal to make it 3-3. The goal, coming from Jack Pritchard’s explosive spinning assist, lifted Wales to find the lead again, this time Morgan slicing a reverse bunt over the ‘keeper. Koji Yamasaki was shown a yellow card with a minute left in the third quarter and Wales capitalised, Joylon Morgan getting a bit of fortune for his hat-trick goal as his cross-goal slap pinballed its way over the goalline. The final quarter saw a Gareth Furlong drag-flick and a Kosei Kawabe consolation cancel each other out to leave the score 6-4 and send Wales through to the 5th-6th place play-off with their first win of the tournament.

Joylon Morgan’s hat-trick earned him Player of the Match and he celebrated his side’s progression: “[We’re] pretty happy, it was a tough game – we knew Japan were a good team. The most important thing was just to get through, it’s our first win of the tournament so [we’re] very happy.”

Malaysia 4-2 South Africa

After a gut-wrenching failure to qualify for Malaysia, the host nation came into the game with work to do and fans to recompense. They struck first with a minute left in the first quarter, as Syed Cholan slugged a rapid drag-flick against the backboard from Malaysia’s third penalty corner. Into the second quarter, again with a minute until the end of the period, South Africa quickly turned over a Malaysian counter-attack and sent the ball deep into the hosts’ half. A defensive fumble in the circle fell to Angelo Walstroom who confidently equalised.

After gifting an equalising goal to the South Africans, Malaysia took charge of the game in the third quarter as Shafiq Hassan wrestled in a chance created by the scything carry of Chohan and good skill from Abu Kamal Azrai. Hassan created the next one himself, cutting infield and shooting before Akhimullah Anuar bumbled the ball over the line to extend the hosts’ lead. South Africa threatened another comeback in the final quarter as Carlon Mentoor’s firm slap found the bottom corner but Fitri Saari’s ended the scrappy play in the circle by restoring Malaysia’s two-goal lead. South Africa will have to wait for their first win of the tournament but will hope to get it tomorrow against Japan.

Player of the Match went to Goalkeeper Hafizzudin Othman for his solid shot-stopping. After receiving the award, he said: “Today [was a] tough match. We worked hard to play for fifth and sixth place.”

France 3 (2) - 3 (3) Pakistan

France, after a strong showing in the pool stages, faced Pakistan in the first semi-final and the most exciting game of the day. The first quarter remained goalless despite five penalty corners being exchanged, one for Pakistan, four for France. In the second quarter, Xavier Esmenjaud threw himself forward with an outstretched stick to put Les Bleus in the lead, touching in a ball across goal.

Early in the second half, France doubled their lead, as the inevitable Victor Charlet converted France’s fifth penalty corner to give France a real boost towards the final.

Pakistan roared back into the game, however, overturning France the dominance and control as Waheed Ashraf Rana set up Afraz’s slap shot before both erupted into celebrations that marked the shift in momentum. Sufyan Khan joined the party, letting fly an unsaveable drag-flick into the top left corner and finding parity with the French. A minute later, Muhammad Hammadudin fantastically deflected in Rana’s flat reverse hit to go 3-2 up.

Victor Charlet, of course, stepped up with two minutes to play for the French, as his deflected flick equalised with two minutes to go. Pakistan went on to win the penalty shootout using just four of their five attempts as France failed to convert chances even after they had wrongfooted the ‘keeper. Pakistan head to their second Nations Cup final in as many years looking to go one better than they did last year.

After Waheeb Ashraf Rana’s creativity and winning penalty named him Player of the Match, he said: “We were ready for this win for a long time. 110 percent effort from the boys’ side Everything we have – we gave everything. [We are] thankful to Allah almighty for helping us. We are really proud of the team and looking forward to the finals now.”

New Zealand 2 (4) - 2 (2) Korea

The final game of the day began with two stunning goals, both from New Zealand. At the end of a relatively subdued first quarter, Scott Boyde’s lasered slap was deflected in on the turn by Jonty Elmes, who redirected the ball into the bottom right corner whilst wrongfooting Kim Jaehan in goal. Dylan Thomas one-upped his teammate however, dancing in from the sideline to turn a relatively innocuous possession into one of the goals of the tournament. After swiftly beating three Korean defenders, he sent a flick up into the roof of the net to double the Blackstick lead.

From then, as Pakistan had in the game before, Korea chipped away at their opponents 2-0 lead. First to make a dent was drag-flicker Lim Dohyun who manufactured the angle needed to beat Dominic Dixon past his helpless right foot from Korea’s second penalty corner. Yang Jihun piled in on the act, rocketing his third quarter drag-flick into the bottom right and pulling scores level. The momentum flitted back and forth between the two teams until the final whistle took the sides to another penalty shootout. Kim Jaehan made a good save to deny the first Blackstick penalty but after Korea failed to convert their first two, New Zealand always had the upper hand to win the shootout and make it to the final. Korea, after a fantastic tournament already, will face France in the 3rd/4th place play-off.

After his wonder-goal, Dylan Thomas was awarded Player of the Match and showed his excitement at making it through: “Absolutely stoked to get into the final. It was a tough game, it’s always a 50/50 when it goes into a shootout but the boys did really well to get us over the line tonight.”

National Hockey Stadium, Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia

Result: Match 1

Wales 6-4 Japan

Player of the Match: Joylon Morgan (WAL)

Umpires: Wanri Venter (RSA), Nick Saunders (NZL), Ben Grant (NZL) (Video)

Match 2

Malaysia 4-2 South Africa

Player of the Match: Hafizzudin Othman (MAS)

Umpires: Wanri Venter (RSA), Ben Grant (NZL), Nick Saunders (NZL) (Video)

Match 3

France 3 (2) - 3 (3) Pakistan

Player of the Match: Waheed Ashraf Rana (PAK)

Umpires: Ben Grant (NZL), Timothy Sheahan (AUS), Ridge Bair (USA) (Video)

Match 4

New Zealand 2 (4) - 2 (2) Korea

Player of the Match: Dylan Thomas (NZL)

Umpires: Peter Kabaso (KEN), Liu Xiaoying (CHN), Ridge Bair (USA) (Video).

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Thailand and Nepal progress to ICC Women’s T20 World Cup 2026 Global Qualifier

2025-05-20T19:04:00.000-07:00

Thailand and Nepal progress to ICC Women’s T20 World Cup 2026 Global Qualifier

BANGAKOK, MAY 20

Thailand and Nepal progress from the Super Three of the ICC Women’s T20 World Cup 2026 Asia Qualifier for a shot at the main event in England and Wales

Thailand and Nepal finished in first and second place, respectively, at the Super Three competition of the ICC Women’s T20 World Cup 2026 Asia Qualifier to progress to the ICC Women’s T20 World Cup 2026 Qualifier.

The tournament which took place in Bangkok, saw nine teams compete for the top two spots that would take them to the final phase of qualification for the ICC Women’s T20 World Cup 2026 to be held in England and Wales.

Nepal, Thailand and the United Arab Emirates (UAE) were in the final three of the tournament, where Thailand beat the UAE by 54 runs on Sunday, followed by Nepal who emerged victorious by five wickets in their fixture against UAE today to finish in the top two and claim their place in the Qualifier.

In Thailand’s match against the UAE, Nattaya Boochatham and Natthakan Chatham contributed scores of 49 and 46, respectively, to get their side to 144 for five after they elected to bat.

In reply, the UAE were restricted to 90 for five, thanks to miserly bowling by Thailand, led by left-arm spinner Thipatcha Putthawong, who took two for 27.

Against Nepal, the UAE once again struggled with the bat as left-arm seam bowler Manisha Upadhayay grabbed four for 20 to restrict the UAE to 114 for seven.

Nepal’s captain Indu Barma steered her side to victory after early trouble saw them slip to 38 for three in the ninth over. Her 28-ball 30 helped her side reach their target with three deliveries to spare.

Nepal and Thailand will join eight other teams to contest for one of four places to the main event.

The ICC Women’s T20 World Cup 2026 Qualifier dates will be announced in due course.

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KIBG reflects transformative power of sports, new chapter added: PM

2025-05-20T18:51:00.000-07:00

KIBG reflects transformative power of sports, new chapter added: PM

DADAR AND NAGAR HAVELI, MAY 20

Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Monday highlighted the ‘transformative force’ of sports and how the Khelo India Beach Games were a watershed moment in the sporting history of the nation. In his message to the Games organisers in the Union Territory of Dadra and Nagar Haveli and Daman & Diu and the Sports Authority of India, Prime Minister Shri Narendra Modi congratulated and gave his best wishes saying that the Beach Games promise to make waves in India’s sporting calendar.

Prime Minister Narendra Modi said the choice of Diu as the venue of the Khelo India Beach Games was “fitting”. “An amalgamation of sun, sand and water, they enhance the physical challenge and at the same time, celebrate our coastal heritage,” said Prime Minister Shri Narendra Modi, adding: “As waves lash the shores and athletes compete. India will script a new sporting chapter.”

The Beach Games, held under the ever-expanding Khelo India umbrella for the first time, were formally declared open by Union Minister of Youth Affairs and Sports, Dr. Mansukh Mandaviya, in a colourful ceremony on the Ghoghla Beach, the venue of the Games in Diu on Monday.

The Khelo India Beach Games have brought together more than 1,350 athletes from over 30 states and Union Territories. On May 24, when the Games are scheduled to end, athletes would have competed in six medal sports – soccer, volleyball, sepaktakraw, kabaddi, pencaksilat and open water swimming. Mallakhamb and tug-of-war are the two non-medal (demonstration) disciplines. Monday morning started with beach soccer games.

“In a nation as diverse as ours, sports have always held a unique power that unites cultures, regions and languages. The vibrant energy of sports goes beyond entertainment and has become a transformative force, symbolizing national pride and aspirations of our youth. It is in this context that the Khelo India Beach Games hold a greater significance,” said Prime Minister Shri Narendra Modi.

The nicely-crafted opening ceremony, glorifying India’s amazing diversity in traditional dance forms, was witnessed among other by several dignitaries, including Administrator of Dadra and Nagar Haveli and Daman & Diu and Lakshadweep Shri Praful Patel, Lt Governor of Puducherry Shri K. Kailashnathan and Admiral DK Joshi, Lt Governor of Andaman & Nicobar Islands.

“Today, we are not just inaugurating a sports event, we are heralding India’s first Beach sports revolution! I believe that where there are waves, there should be passion; where there is sand, there should be a fire of enthusiasm — and the Khelo India Beach Games have ignited that fire in all our hearts today,” said Dr Mansukh Mandaviya. He added: “Under the Modi government, we do not organize events just as a formality — we are on a mission. And this mission connects sports to employment. For a Viksit Bharat, Khelo India is a sure pathway for youth to achieve their dreams.”

Saying that Khelo India has added more Games to the domestic calendar, Dr Mansukh Mandaviya, like PM Modi, highlighted how over the last few years, the government spared no effort to boost the sporting ecosystem through investments in infrastructure, better training facilities and supportive measures for sportspersons. Dr Mansukh Mandaviya amplified this saying new Games are a way to “strengthen the domestic sports infrastructure and send a strong message to the world that India is capable of hosting international sporting events of any scale.”

Dr Mansukh Mandaviya said the Khelo India Beach Games should not be seen as a “casual” affair. “Such sports like beach volleyball not only appeal to the youth as a hobby but also offer them career opportunities. This is the first time that competitive sports are being held on such a large scale on the beaches of India,” he added.

Dr Mansukh Mandaviya said India was becoming a fitness conscious nation and a culture of sports has become the “new normal”. He also highlighted the strong commitment that the government has for the Union Territory.

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Hockey receives major honours at World Fair Play Awards!

2025-05-20T18:45:00.000-07:00

Hockey receives major honours at World Fair Play Awards!

LAUSANNE (SWITZERLAND), MAY 20

The International Fair Play Committee (CIFP) has awarded the Thailand Hockey Association (THA) and international hockey umpire Victoria Pazos (Paraguay) with the World Fair Play Diploma in the categories of “Willi Daume – Promotion of Fair Play” and “Jean Borotra – Career of Fair Play” respectively, in order to recognize their exemplary achievements in the world of sport and on the field of promoting fair play. The awards were officially received at the 2024 World Fair Play Awards Ceremony that took place last night in Budapest, Hungary.

Their nominations for the prestigious award had been submitted by the International Hockey Federation (FIH) on the following basis:

The Thailand Hockey Association has played a pivotal role in elevating the Cambodian National Hockey Team to new heights on the international stage. Their generous assistance has enabled Cambodia to compete in major continental events, particularly Asian Indoor Hockey competitions, and gain invaluable experience at the highest level of the sport. Through ongoing training, coaching support, and competitive opportunities, THA has provided a foundation for Cambodian athletes—men, women, and young players—to represent their nation with pride and improve their skills. THA has also hosted the Cambodian National Team multiple times, offering them essential training opportunities, matches, and coaching assistance. THA has also extended its assistance in infrastructure development.
Victoria Pazos embodies the true spirit of fair play, both as a highly respected young international hockey umpire and as a dedicated coach of the Intellectual Disability Hockey (Hockey ID) team in Paraguay. Known for her integrity, impartiality, and deep commitment to the sport, she consistently upholds the values of fairness and respect on and off the field. Her role extends beyond officiating. Through her work with the Hockey ID team, she promotes inclusion, sportsmanship, and equal opportunities for all athletes.

FIH President Tayyab Ikram said: “It’s a great honour for our sport to be recognised by the World Fair Play Committee with such prestigious awards. And not only once, but twice! Congratulations to the Thailand Hockey Association and our international umpire Victoria Pazos for their magnificent dedication. I’d also like to express our gratitude to the World Fair Play Committee.

As an Olympic sport, we strongly believe in the role of sports to be a catalyst for change in society and to promote social values. Therefore, we’re leading and fostering concrete actions in this regard. After FIH won the IOC Climate Action Award last year, hockey now receives high recognition from the World Fair Play Committee. These acknowledgements are really encouraging.”

Thailand Hockey Association President Dato Seri Chaiyapak Siriwat said: “The Thailand Hockey Association is deeply honoured to receive this recognition from the World Fair Play Committee. We extend our sincere appreciation to the Committee and to the International Hockey Federation (FIH) for their unwavering commitment to supporting developing nations in their pursuit of sporting excellence. We share a collective mission — not only to grow the game of hockey, but to foster a spirit of solidarity in which nations, regardless of size or status, extend a hand to uplift one another.

While we continue to navigate various challenges, the steadfast support of the FIH reinforces our commitment and further affirms our responsibility to assist in the development of others along this shared journey. We remain dedicated to advancing hockey in Thailand and throughout our region, using our beloved sport as a tool to empower, strengthen, and connect communities through mutual respect and collaboration.”

International umpire Victoria Pazos said: “It is an unexpected honour to receive this diploma. Being recognized on this level gives me more energy to keep developing our sport in my country and in my continent, promoting its values. I am grateful for my national association (APH), my continental federation (PAHF) and FIH that give me the space to do all this.”

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Haryana Governor pays tribute to Bhagwan Parshuram

2025-04-29T20:57:00.000-07:00

Haryana Governor pays tribute to Bhagwan Parshuram

CHANDIGARH, APRIL 29

Haryana Governor Bandaru Dattatraya, on the auspicious occasion of Bhagwan Parshuram Jayanti, paid his heartfelt tributes to the revered sage at a solemn ceremony held at Raj Bhavan on Tuesday.

Shri Dattatraya highlighted the timeless teachings and values embodied by Bhagwan Parshuram – valour, righteousness, dedication to dharma, and service to society. He urged the people of Haryana and the nation to draw inspiration from the life and ideals of Bhagwan Parshuram in building a stronger, more inclusive, and equitable India.

“Bhagwan Parshuram’s life is a guiding light for generations. His unwavering commitment to truth, justice, and the upliftment of society holds great relevance in today’s times. Let us resolve to follow his path and contribute to national unity, social harmony, and collective progress,” said Shri Dattatraya.

Governor Dattatraya also emphasized the importance of preserving India’s spiritual and cultural heritage while working together across communities for a prosperous future. Senior officials and staff of Raj Bhavan were present during the tribute ceremony.

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USPC honors coaches and support staff for 2024

2025-04-29T20:40:00.000-07:00

USPC honors coaches and support staff for 2024

COLORADO SPRINGS, APRIL 29

The United States Olympic & Paralympic Committee today announced its annual award recipients for eight coaches and support staff members of the year for 2024. The recipients include three winter and five summer coaches, spanning seven different sports.

The award recipients include USA Fencing’s Ralf Bissdorf as Olympic Coach of the Year and USA Volleyball’s Bill Hamiter as Paralympic Coach of the Year. The summer award recipients are USA Softball’s Patty Gasso as College Coach of the Year, Linda "Dee" Mahoney as Service Provider of the Year and USA Archery’s Phil "Chad" Jones as Volunteer Coach of the Year. The winter award recipients include U.S. Figure Skating’s Steffany Hanlen as the Doc Counsilman Science and Technology Award winner, USA Hockey’s Heather Mannix as Coach Educator of the Year and U.S. Speedskating’s Tom Anderson as Developmental Coach of the Year.

“Team USA's success is built on the dedication of our coaches and support staff, whose impact extends from youth development to highest levels of sport on the world’s biggest stages," said Rocky Harris, USOPC chief of sport and athlete services. "Their unwavering commitment not only empowers our athletes but also strengthens each National Governing Bodies and Team USA as a whole. As we celebrate the outstanding achievements of 2024, we proudly recognize the eight individual award winners for their relentless pursuit of excellence in their sport and beyond.”

National Governing Bodies nominated their 2024 coaches as part of the USOPC Coach of the Year Recognition Program, with winners selected by a USOPC panel. The program recognizes and celebrates the work of outstanding coaches and support providers who make a significant impact within their sport and National Governing Body throughout the year.

Olympic Coach of the Year – Ralf Bissdorf (USA Fencing)

Ralf Bissdorf made history as the coach of the first U.S. fencing team to win Olympic gold, as he guided Jackie Dubrovich, Lee Kiefer, Lauren Scruggs and Maia Weintraub to victory at the Olympic Games Paris 2024. Bissdorf’s strategic decision-making played a pivotal role in securing gold. Under his leadership, Team USA maintained a consistently strong presence on the international stage in 2024, earning multiple podium finishes. Beyond competition, Bissdorf has fostered a culture of inclusivity, supportiveness and development, helping strengthen the future of women’s foil fencing in the United States. His innovative training methods and emphasis on teamwork have left a lasting impact on the fencing community, solidifying his legacy in the sport.

Paralympic Coach of the Year – Bill Hamiter (USA Volleyball)

Bill Hamiter has built the U.S. Women's Sitting Volleyball Team into a dominant force, leading them to a historic third-consecutive Paralympic gold medal at Paris 2024. Since taking over in 2009, Hamiter has transformed the team into an international powerhouse. His preparation was evident in Paris, where the U.S. rebounded from a pool play loss to defeat China, 3-1, in the final. Hamiter’s athletes earned top individual honors, including MVP and Best Attacker for Heather Erickson, Best Blocker for Lora Webster, and Best Setter for Kaleo Kanahele Maclay. A pioneer in data-driven coaching, Hamiter has implemented advanced analytics, match video review and load-monitoring technologies to optimize training and performance. His emphasis on individualized development has created a sustainable pipeline of elite athletes, ensuring continued success for Team USA. With his unmatched record of achievement and impact on Paralympic sport, Hamiter stands as a model of coaching excellence.

Developmental Coach of the Year - Tom Anderson (U.S. Speedskating)

Coach Tom Anderson has grown the Northbrook Speed Skating Club into a thriving program, increasing membership by 22% and expanding training opportunities for skaters of all ages. Prioritizing character development alongside athletic performance, Anderson holds individual goal-setting meetings and fosters open communication between skaters and parents. His emphasis on mental resilience and teamwork is reinforced through weekly team-building sessions that focus on life skills and camaraderie. Anderson's impact extends beyond competition, as many of his former athletes remain connected and credit him as a major influence on their careers. In 2024, his skaters excelled nationally, with 14 qualifying for USS Short Track Age Group Nationals and multiple records set. Through his innovative coaching, personal mentorship and commitment to athlete development, Anderson continues to shape the future of speedskating in the U.S..

College Coach of the Year – Patty Gasso (USA Softball)

This year, Patty Gasso solidified her place as one of the most successful coaches in NCAA softball history, leading University of Oklahoma softball to an unmatched fourth consecutive national championship in 2024. In her 31st season, Gasso has accumulated eight NCAA Division I National Championships and guided the Sooners to 17 Women's College World Series appearances. As Oklahoma transitions to the SEC, she concludes her Big 12 tenure as the conference’s all-time winningest coach, having earned 15 conference titles and 15 regular season Big 12 titles and nine Big 12 tournament titles. Under her leadership, 85 players have earned All-American recognition, and her teams have thrived both on the field and in the classroom. Beyond championships, Gasso fosters a culture of excellence, trust and personal growth. With a coaching philosophy that blends technical mastery and emotional intelligence, she continues to mold the future of collegiate softball and pave the way for women’s sports.

Volunteer Coach of the Year – Phil “Chad” Jones (USA Archery)

Phil “Chad” Jones has played a pivotal role in athlete development at In-Range Archery, promoting an environment that consistently produces top-tier competitors at the state, national, and international levels. His expert coaching, tailored to each athlete’s abilities, has led to significant achievements, including multiple archers earning spots on the USAT team and coaching a U21 archer to the World Archery Field Championships. Beyond competitive success, Jones is committed to continuous self-improvement, integrating modern coaching methodologies from USA Archery courses into his training. His dedication is further underscored by his volunteerism—coaching both individual athletes and his Junior Olympic Archery Development team free of charge. By prioritizing personal growth, mental training and community-building, Jones has created a structured, supportive environment that enables archers to excel and grow both on and off the range.

Service Provider of the Year – Linda “Dee” Mahoney (USA Softball)

Linda “Dee” Mahoney has been a cornerstone of athlete care, bringing decades of expertise to Team USA as she began her national team career with USA Track & Field in 1989. Over the years, she has traveled with and provided services to our athletes with USA Track & Field, U.S. women’s soccer, men’s and women’s diving and Para track and field, before joining USA Softball in 2021. She spent 25 years as an athletic trainer at Westfield High School in Indiana where she was inducted into the IATA Hall of Fame in 2019. She has become an integral part of USA Softball’s success. Her contributions were key to the U.S. Women’s National Team’s silver medal finish at the 2024 WBSC Women’s World Cup Finals and the U-18 Women’s World Cup Group C Event, where the Eagles went undefeated to qualify for the 2025 World Cup Finals. Mahoney is known for her holistic approach to athlete care, emphasizing both physical recovery and mental well-being. As a passionate advocate in the dugout, she ensures athletes have the resources they need to perform at their best. Her commitment extends beyond competition, as she dedicates time to individualized recovery plans, furthering a supportive environment that prioritizes long-term athlete health and success.

Coach Educator of the Year – Heather Mannix (USA Hockey)

As USA Hockey’s Manager of Education and Player Development, Heather Mannix has revolutionized coaching education, enhancing how over 30,000 youth hockey coaches are trained annually. She pioneered train-the-trainer programs, elevating the effectiveness of 150+ volunteer coach developers and fostering a culture of excellence. Her creation of facilitation materials has standardized high-quality instruction across all four levels of USA Hockey’s coaching curriculum. Recognized internationally, she has trained coach developers for the International Ice Hockey Federation and International Council for Coaching Excellence, working with top hockey nations. Additionally, she has led efforts to modernize USA Hockey’s Officiating Education Program, aligning it with best practices in learner-centered delivery. Through her innovation and leadership, Mannix has set a new standard for coaching education, making a lasting impact on the future of hockey.

Doc Counsilman Science & Technology Award – Steffany Hanlen (U.S. Figure Skating)
Steffany Hanlen, the 2024 U.S. Figure Skating Sport Science Coach of the Year, has made groundbreaking contributions to athlete development through sport science. She created The Champion’s Journey – From Purpose to Podium, a program designed to help athletes integrate research, technology and personal values into long-term success. Hanlen specializes in developing customized systems to support emotional, physical, social and mental well-being, ensuring athletes gain lifelong skills both in and beyond sport. Her approach blends visualization, journaling, neuro-linguistic programming and performance psychology with cutting-edge technology to enhance training. As co-founder of the Ice Academy of Montreal, she played a crucial role in shaping elite skaters and launched the I.AM Holistic Isolation Bootcamp in 2020 to provide athletes with training and mental support. Additionally, she pioneered proprietary power skating techniques and continues to train skating coaches in advanced methodologies, further elevating the sport’s development.

India fined for slow over-rate in first match

2025-04-29T20:35:00.000-07:00

India fined for slow over-rate in first match

COLOMBO, APRIL 29

India have been fined five per cent of their match fee for maintaining a slow over-rate against Sri Lanka in the first match of the Women’s Tri-series in Colombo on Sunday.

Vanessa de Silva of the Emirates ICC International Panel of Match Referees imposed the sanction after India were ruled to be one over short of the target after time allowances were taken into consideration.

In accordance with Article 2.22 of the ICC Code of Conduct for Players and Player Support Personnel, which relates to minimum over-rate offences, players are fined five per cent of their match fee for every over their side fails to bowl in the allotted time.

India captain Harmanpreet Kaur pleaded'guilty to the offence and accepted the proposed sanction, so there was no need for a formal hearing.

On-field umpires Anna Harris and Nimali Perera, third umpire Lyndon Hannibal and fourth umpire Dedunu de Silva leveled the charge.

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12 teams for US Junior T20 League from July 15-21

2025-04-29T20:24:00.000-07:00

12 teams for US Junior T20 League 2025

CALIFORNIA, APRIL 29

The US Junior League (USJL), a T20 professional cricket competition for players aged 14–23, is gearing up for its second season in 2025, expanding from six to twelve teams.

The league’s growth from 6 to 12 teams reflects increasing interest with the franchise owners and players’ participation. Teams from the 2025 season included Austin Blaze, Baltimore BlueJays, California Astros, Columbus Falcons, Dallas Thunders, Denver Dynamites, Knight Riders United, MyGO Chicago Kings, Northwest Renegades, Raiders Unlimited, Seattle Seals, and Washington Royals.

Advisory Board: The USJL established an advisory board, including former Indian international player M.S.K. Prasad, to enhance strategic planning and talent development. Jatin Patel, a Cricket Hall of Famer with Lifetime Achievement Award and USA Presidential Lifetime Achievement Award recipient, is a multi-sport coach, mentor, administrator and Professional Performance Analyst. Lastly, we are honored to have the support of a world-renowned power-hitting coach Julian Wood, respected for his work with top cricket franchises around the world. This signals a commitment to professionalizing the league and improving competition quality.

Objectives: The USJL emphasizes nationwide reach, skill development, and providing a pathway to professional cricket, such as Minor League Cricket (MiLC), Major League Cricket (MLC) or USA national age-group teams. Organizers are planning new initiatives, including all-star teams and high-performance training programs, to nurture talent.

Leadership: Prithivi Raj Logan, founder and CEO of USJL, has highlighted the league’s goal to foster future cricket stars in the USA, with 2025 expected to bring more excitement and opportunities.

USJL player draft for 2.0 edition is scheduled to take place on April 27 at 7:30 PM CST

Each franchise team will comprise of 13 players in the combination of 3 - Under-23, 5 - Under-19 and 5 - Under 16 age group players.

The US Junior League is proud to announce that all 12 team franchise owners have been officially finalized ahead of the league’s 2nd season. This marks a major milestone in the league’s journey to develop and showcase emerging talent across the country.

Over 350 players across the country and several international players have registered for the second edition. The highly anticipated Player Draft will allow the franchise teams to select from a registered pool of top junior talent.

Six franchise teams that participated in the first edition will be able to retain three players from each age category i.e. one each from Under-16, Under-19 and Under-23 age groups and the new six franchise teams will be able to pre-draft one player from the registered pool. US Junior League 2.0 edition is scheduled for July 15 to 21 2025 at Houston Prairie View cricket complex (Address: Houston, Prairie View, TX 77445). The event is expected to set the stage for a competitive and exciting season, bringing fresh energy and passion to the sport.

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ICC welcomes announcement of cricket venue for LA28

2025-04-29T20:14:00.000-07:00

ICC welcomes announcement of cricket venue for LA28

DUBAI, APRIL 29

The International Cricket Council (ICC) has welcomed the announcement of Fairgrounds in Pomona, Southern California, as the venue for cricket at the Olympic Games Los Angeles 2028 (LA28).

The cricket competition at LA28 will feature six teams each in the men’s and women’s competition as the sport makes a return to the Games after 128 years.

The ICC Chair, Mr. Jay Shah, has welcomed the confirmation of the venue and is looking forward to working in partnership with the International Olympic Committee (IOC) to ensure cricket’s success at the Games.

Jay Shah: “We welcome the announcement of the venue for cricket at Los Angeles 2028 as it is a significant step towards the preparation for our sport’s return to the Olympics.

“Although cricket is a hugely popular sport, it will be a fantastic opportunity to expand traditional boundaries when it features in the Olympics in the fast-paced, exciting T20 format that should appeal to new audiences.

“On behalf of the ICC, I want to express my gratitude to LA28 and the International Olympic Committee for their support and look forward to collaborating with them and ICC Members in preparing for LA28 and making cricket a huge success there.”

Cricket, which made its only appearance in the Olympics at the Paris Games in 1900, was included in the Los Angeles Olympics after an IOC meeting in Mumbai in October 2023.

Cricket joins five new sports at LA28 – baseball/softball, flag football, lacrosse (sixes) and squash.

The T20 format, which is recognized as the vehicle for the growth of the game by the ICC, has also featured in other multi-sport events in recent years.

The Asian Games in 2010, 2014 and 2023 featured both men’s and women’s T20 competitions while the Birmingham 2022 Commonwealth Games staged a women’s competition.

Swaaraj/Neev and Nainika/Riya/win doubles titles

2025-04-24T21:21:00.000-07:00

Swaaraj/Neev and Nainika/Riya/win doubles titles

CHANDIGARH, APRIL 24

Top seed Swaaraj and his partner Neev Kothari lifted the boys under-18 doubles title after beating Shreyas Dogial / Dhruv Ghanghas 2-6, 7-6( 6), 10-7. in the doubles final in the CLTA-AITA National Series Tennis Tournament for Boys and Girls under-18 at the Sector 10 Tennis Stadium here today.

In the girls under-18 doubles final Nainika Reddy and Riya Sachdeva defeated Afreen and Ranjan 6-2,7-6 (2),

Fifth seed Armaan Walia and Ribhav Saroha advanced into semifinals in the boys under-18 singles. Armaan Walia outplayed Dhruv Ghangas of Haryana 6-4, 6-0 in straight set. Armaan Walia played in a top form and won the first set 6-4.

In the second set Armaan maintained his momentum and raised his level of game, finally Armaan closed the second set and match 6-0 without conceding a single game.

In the another quarter final Ribhav Saroha upset 10th seed Anuj Tehsildar of Maharashtra 6-2,6-2 in straight set. Top seed Swaaraj and Nithin also advanced into semi- finals

In girls singles ninth seed Sherry Sharma and third seed Nainika moved into semi-finals. Sherry Sharma upset 2^nd seed Riya Sachdeva of Delhi in three setter marathon match 6-4,4-6,6-3. In the another quarter finals Nainika Bendram of Maharashtra won from Iha Joshi 6-3,6-2 in straight set. Other girls who move into semi-finals are 4^th seed Shagun Kumari and Ranjana Sangram.

Dr. Indra Rattan distributed the prizes to the winners and runners-ups of Boy’s and Girl’s doubles events

Results: Boys under-18 singles (q-finals): Swaraaj Shailendra Dhamdhere (MH) [1] bt. Vivaan Bidasaria (MP) (Q) 6-3, 6-2, Armaan Walia (PB) [5] bt. Dhruv Ghanghas (HR) [4] 6-4, 6-0, Ribhav Saroha (CH) bt. Anuj Tashildar (MH) [10] 6-2, 6-2, Nithin Barath KS (KR) bt. Megh Maulik Patel (GJ) 6-2, 1-6, 6-2.

Girls under-18 singles (q-finals): Ranjhana Sangram (PB) (Q) bt. Manshi Singh (DL) [11] 6-4, 6-4, Shagun Kumari (UP) [4] bt. Pal Vipulkumar Upadhyay (GJ) [8] 7-6(5), 6-2, Nainika Naren Bendram (MH) [3] bt. Iha Joshi (HR) 6-3, 6-2, Sherry Sharma (HR) [9] bt. Riya Sachdeva (DL) [2] 6-4, 4-6, 6-3.

Doubles (finals): Boys Under-18: Swaraj Dhamdhere / Neev Kothari [1] bt. Shreyas Dogial / Dhruv Ghanghas 2-6, 7-6(6), 10-7.

Girls Under-18: Nainika Reddy Bendram / Riya Sachdeva [1] bt. Afreen Rahil / Ranjana Sangram 6-2, 7-6 (2).

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Gaurav Pratap Singh fires course record of 63, takes first-round lead

2025-04-24T21:04:00.000-07:00

(L – R) Mr. Vinod Chandiok, PGTI President, tournament host and Indian cricket legend Mr. Kapil Dev, leading Indian professionals Gaganjeet Bhullar and Tvesa Malik, former Indian cricketer Mr. Ajit Agarkar and Grant Thornton Bharat CEO Mr. Vishesh C Chandiok, seen unveiling the trophy on Thursday

Gaurav Pratap Singh fires course record of 63, takes first-round lead

BENGALURU, APRIL 24

Gaurav Pratap Singh of Noida fired a course record score of nine-under 63 to take the first-round lead at the INR 2 crore Kapil Dev Grant Thornton Invitational 2025 being played at the Prestige Golfshire Club in Bengaluru.

Gaurav’s flawless round broke the previous course record of five-under 67 set by Rashid Khan in 2012.

Gaurav Pratap Singh

Delhi’s Arjun Prasad, fresh from his runner-up finish in Delhi last week, continued his fine form with an eight-under 64 as he held second position on day one.

Bengaluru’s Khalin Joshi struck a 65 to be placed third at the first-of-its-kind PGTI event with a mixed field of men and lady professionals.

Gaganjeet Bhullar, Om Prakash Chouhan and Yuvraj Sandhu were among the prominent names bunched in tied sixth with scores of 67.

Hitaashee Bakshi had the best score among the lady golfers after she returned a 69 to be tied 19th.

Gaurav Pratap Singh began his day with a tap-in birdie on the first and followed that up with a 20-feet eagle conversion on the fifth. Some outstanding tee shots with the 3-wood and great wedge-play helped Gaurav, a winner of four pro titles including two on the PGTI main tour, collect five more birdies between the eighth and the 16^th. The 40-year-old finally drained a 15-footer for birdie on the 17^th to close the day with a phenomenal 63.

“Everything came together well today as far as my game is concerned. I was nursing a couple of injuries in my knee and wrist in the previous weeks but right now the body is in good shape and I’m injury-free.

“This course is in peach condition and requires a lot of planning. I’m playing with a clear plan and using my 3-wood more often than the driver because I’m looking to place the ball well off the tee. The plan seemed to work for me today. The eagle early on in my round gave me a lot of momentum and was one of the highlights of my round.

“It’s great to play this new format where the lady professionals are also competing for the main prize. I’m also looking forward to playing alongside the amateurs. I would like to take this opportunity to thank PGTI President Mr. Kapil Dev and Grant Thornton for getting this event back on the PGTI schedule.”

Arjun Prasad, currently placed second on the PGTI Order of Merit with five top-10s this season, posted nine birdies and a bogey on Thursday. He landed it within five feet on five occasions and knocked in three birdie putts from a range of 10 to 12 feet.

Arjun said, “The game is in great shape and that is evident from the fact that this is my second straight round of eight-under. I fired an eight-under in the last round of last week’s event in Delhi. So, it feels like I resumed from where I left off the previous week.”

Earlier in the day, the tournament was inaugurated with the unveiling of the trophy and ceremonial tee-offs by PGTI President, tournament host and Indian cricket legend Kapil Dev, Grant Thornton Bharat CEO Vishesh C Chandiok, Vinod Chandiok, leading Indian professionals Gaganjeet Bhullar and Tvesa Malik as well as former Indian cricketer Ajit Agarkar.

The tournament combines the Professional Championship with a thrilling Pro-Am component, bringing together professionals and amateurs in a dynamic and engaging way. The three-day, 54-hole championship features 60 men and 12 women professionals competing for the same prize purse. The event will also feature three Pro-Am rounds in a rotational format, with 48 professionals teeing off in the morning, while the remaining 24 pair up with 72 amateurs in the afternoon session. Each Pro-Am team will comprise one professional and three amateurs, with scores combining the pro’s stroke play and the amateurs’ scramble format. Prize money will be awarded to the top three professionals in the Pro-Am standings.

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MoU signed between KCW and Laurentian University

2025-04-05T20:14:00.000-07:00

MoU signed between KCW and Laurentian University

AMRITSAR, APRIL 4

Khalsa College for Women (KCW) and Laurentian University (LU) have signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) to enhance academic collaboration and provide better educational opportunities for students. Laurentian University, located in Sudbury, Ontario, is a leading bilingual institution in Canada, recognized for its excellence in education, research, and community engagement. Laurentian University fosters a dynamic learning environment and plays a crucial role in regional development while making a global impact through its academic and research contributions. The signing ceremony took place at the office of Rajinder Mohan Singh Chhina, Honorary Secretary, Khalsa College Charitable Society, Amritsar, in the presence of dignitaries from both institutions.

The MOU was signed in the presence of Dr. Parvinder Arora, Faculty Dean of Business, Aarti Ravat, Global Official Representative and Viren Singal, Global Strategy and Recruitment Partner Head, who came from Laurentian University, Sudbury, Canada, and RMS Chhina, Dr. Surinder Kaur, Principal/Dean, Academic Affairs, Dr. Khushwinder Kumar, Registrar, Khalsa University, and Dr. Suman Nayyar, Head Department of Commerce and Management.

The MoU focuses on the BBA program and includes student and faculty exchange programs, industry collaborations, joint research, and skill development initiatives. It will also provide students with opportunities for internships, entrepreneurship training, and exposure to digital business strategies. This partnership is especially beneficial for students seeking international exposure and global learning experiences. The curriculum of the programme is designed as per New Education Policy-2020. The ceremony concluded with an exchange of mementos and a vote of thanks by Dr. Ritu Dhawan.

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Saptak Talwar bags maiden title at Adani Invitational Golf Championship

2025-04-05T20:11:00.000-07:00

Saptak Talwar (centre) receives the trophy from Mr. Pranav Adani, Director, Adani Enterprises Limited (right) and Mr. Kapil Dev, President, PGTI (left)

Saptak Talwar bags maiden title at Adani Invitational Golf Championship

GREATER NOIDA, APRIL 4

Saptak Talwar of Greater Noida ended a long wait for his maiden title after he outshined his nearest rivals at his home course with a flawless final round of five-under 67 at the INR 1.5 crore Adani Invitational Golf Championship 2025 played at the Jaypee Greens Golf & Spa Resort in Greater Noida.

The 26-year-old Saptak’s (67-72-69-67) superb last round effort lifted him two spots from his overnight third position. Talwar, who had previously posted two runner-up finishes on the PGTI since turning pro in 2021, ended the week with a winning total of 13-under 275 and a one-stroke victory margin.

Talwar, who studied at Sacred Heart University in Connecticut, USA, prior to turning professional, picked up the winning cheque worth INR 22,50,000 that propelled him from seventh to fourth position in the PGTI Order of Merit.

Overnight joint leaders Arjun Prasad (68-69-69-70) of Delhi and Chandigarh’s Yuvraj Sandhu (70-67-69-71) finished second and third at 12-under 276 and 11-under 277 respectively.

Saptak Talwar, who was two off the lead at the start of round four, enjoyed a hot start on Friday as he capitalized with birdies on the first two par-5s, the second and fourth holes. Saptak then added two more birdies on the fifth and 10^th using his wedges to great effect. He narrowly missed a five-feet eagle putt on the par-5 12^th where he picked up his fifth birdie of the day.

Talwar, who had made three three-putts for bogeys earlier in the week, then saw it home with pars on the last six holes. He made a crucial par save from eight feet on the 16^th that helped keep his card bogey-free and gave him the momentum towards the end.

Saptak said, “It’s great to win at my home course in the presence of my family and friends. This is my fifth straight week of competition and my endurance was my biggest asset this week. The fact that it was a relatively stress-free week because I was playing in home conditions and there was not much preparation needed also helped.

“At the start of the day, my approach was to just be patient and keep myself in the mix as long as possible as I knew the course well and was aware that I will have my opportunities at some stage. After the good start, the eight-feet par putt on the 16^th I feel was a pivotal moment for me today. It helped me keep my card clean and gave me the confidence to finish well.”

Arjun Prasad, also searching for his first title, produced five birdies and three bogeys during his fourth round of 70. Arjun had the opportunity to take the match into a playoff before he bogeyed the final hole.

Yuvraj Sandhu, a two-time winner on the PGTI this season, sank five birdies on the last day but an early double-bogey and two bogeys on the back-nine put him out of contention as he signed for a 71.

There was a hole-in-one by Sri Lankan N Thangaraja on the 14^th during his fourth round of 71. He secured tied 17^th place at two-under 286.

Nineteen-year-old Sukhman Singh of Greater Noida, the lone amateur to make the cut, won the prize for the best performance by an amateur. Sukhman totaled six-over 294 for the week to finish tied 46th.

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Arjun Prasad and Yuvraj Sandhu continue in the joint lead

2025-04-03T16:56:00.000-07:00

Arjun Prasad and Yuvraj Sandhu continue in the joint lead

Yuvraj Sandhu

GREATER NOIDA, APRIL 3

Delhi-based Arjun Prasad and Chandigarh’s Yuvraj Sandhu continued in the joint lead after shooting scores of three-under 69 on day three of the INR 1.5 crore Adani Invitational Golf Championship 2025 being played at the Jaypee Greens Golf & Spa Resort in Greater Noida.

Overnight joint leaders Arjun (68-69-69) and Yuvraj (70-67-69), who happen to be close friends and are also often roommates during tournaments, took their total score to 10-under 206 on Thursday as they extended their lead over the rest of the field to two strokes.

Greater Noida’s Saptak Talwar (67-72-69) climbed two spots to third position at eight-under 208 following his third round of 69.

Delhi’s Honey Baisoya and Chandigarh’s Harendra Gupta carded scores of 72 to end the day in tied fourth place at six-under 210.

Arjun Sharma (68) was the other player from Greater Noida in the top-10 as he closed the day in tied sixth place at five-under 211. Arjun sank two eagles during his 68 on Thursday.

Arjun Prasad

Noida-based teenager Sukhman Singh, the lone amateur to make the cut, returned a 73 to be placed tied 39^th at three-over 219.

On a day when the swirling wind switched directions and was causing trouble to most of the field, Arjun Prasad made a hot start with three birdies on the first five holes where he had a couple of 10-feet conversions.

After a bogey on the eighth, the 26-year-old Arjun, searching for his maiden title, came back strong with birdies on the 10^th and 17th (par-3) where he came up with a terrific bunker shot and an equally good tee shot respectively. Prasad, currently sixth on the PGTI Order of Merit, remained on top of the leaderboard despite dropping a bogey on the closing 18th.

Arjun said, “With the wind switching direction today, quite a few holes were playing differently. So, one had to accordingly make the changes in the tee shots and the lines. Making these adjustments was critical today and I managed to do that well.

“It’s always fun playing in the same group as my good friend and regular roommate Yuvraj. We play a lot of practice rounds together so we always enjoy each other’s company. Even today, we were pushing each other to do better by making those birdies and par saves. I look forward to playing in the leader group with Yuvraj once again in the final round.”

Unlike the second round, Yuvraj Sandhu had a comparatively slower start on day three as he bogeyed the first hole. The 28-year-old Yuvraj, a winner of 11 titles including two on the PGTI this year, came roaring back with three birdies between the second and fifth holes.

Sandhu, currently third on the PGTI Order of Merit, then added three more birdies and two bogeys on his back-nine where he had mixed fortunes.

Yuvraj said, “It was an up and down day for me as the putter went cold especially on the back-nine. But I’m glad that it was topsy-turvy today as I can now expect a much better final round.

“I’m excited about playing alongside my friend Arjun in the leader group on the final day for the second time this season. He’s been working really hard on his game so I’m looking forward to the contest.

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Yuvraj Sandhu and Arjun Prasad rise to the top in round two

2025-04-02T18:40:00.000-07:00

Yuvraj Sandhu and Arjun Prasad rise to the top in round two

GREATER NOIDA, APRIL 2

Chandigarh’s Yuvraj Sandhu and Delhi’s Arjun Prasad climbed atop the leaderboard with totals of seven-under 137 after round two of the INR 1.5 crore Adani Invitational Golf Championship 2025 being played at the Jaypee Greens Golf & Spa Resort in Greater Noida.

Arjun Prasad

Yuvraj Sandhu

While Yuvraj (70-67), a two-time winner on the PGTI this season, came up with a 67 on Wednesday to rise nine spots from his overnight tied 10^th, Arjun (68-69) delivered a 69 to gain two spots from his overnight tied third place.

Chandigarh golfer Harendra Gupta shot the day’s best score of 66 to end up in tied third place at six-under 138 along with Honey Baisoya of Delhi who sank two eagles during his round of 68.

Saptak Talwar, the first-round joint leader, carded a 72 to close the day as the best-placed professional from Greater Noida as he occupied fifth position at five-under 139.

The halfway cut came down at three-over 147. Sixty professionals and one amateur made the cut.

The lone amateur to make the cut was 19-year-old Sukhman Singh (71) of Noida who was tied 31^st at two-over 146.

Yuvraj Sandhu came out all guns blazing on day two making seven birdies on the first 10 holes where he hit his irons and wedges to perfection. On this stretch, 28-year-old Yuvraj narrowly missed a hole-in-one on the third, chipped-in on the 10^th and produced some exceptional chips and a terrific bunker shot to leave himself easy birdie conversions.

Yuvraj said, “This is my fourth straight week of competition so there was a little shoulder pain at the start of this event. But the physio here at the tournament, Ravinder Sir helped me get rid of the pain. A big thanks to him.

“As there was no wind in the morning, I pressed the pedal to take advantage of the conditions. But once the wind started swirling in the afternoon, I lost a shot or two in that transition.

“I’m playing at Jaypee after a long time, in fact this is my first professional event at this venue. I last played here as an amateur. But the course is quite challenging now and has its own teeth.”

Twenty-six-year-old Arjun Prasad, still searching for his maiden victory, made four birdies and a bogey in round two. Three of Arjun’s birdies came on the par-5s as a result of two outstanding up and downs and a great bunker shot.

Arjun said, “I’ve had a decent start to the season thanks to all the work that I’ve put in with my coach and my team. I’ve had two solid days so far and am now looking forward to playing in the leader group with my good friend Yuvraj for the second time this season.”

=====balbirsingh227@gmail.com