Category: Sports

Ultimate Kho Kho ropes in IndianOil as Powered By Sponsor for Season 2

Mumbai: Ultimate Kho Kho, India’s first-ever professional Kho Kho league, has onboarded IndianOil, the country’s leading diversified, integrated energy major as the Powered By Sponsor for its ongoing Season 2. Aligning with Ultimate Kho Kho’s vision of bringing a modern twist to the traditional sport, this partnership solidifies the league’s commitment to shaping the future of Kho Kho in India.

Having recently secured Series A funding from UK-based BNP Group after successfully raising its valuation, Ultimate Kho Kho became the first sports league in India to secure private equity investment to grow the trajectory of Kho-Kho in India and globally.

Their partnership with IndianOil is set to unfold through an extensive marketing campaign, encompassing digital and on-ground activations. This collaborative effort will showcase player engagements, social media promotions, and fan-centric initiatives, all geared toward amplifying the league’s reach and influence throughout the nation.

Reflecting on the strategic association, Ultimate Kho Kho CEO & league commissioner Tenzing Niyogi commented, “We are thrilled to welcome IndianOil as our Powered By Sponsor to elevate the stature of Kho Kho in India. Ultimate Kho Kho was conceived with the vision of not only reviving the rich heritage of Kho Kho but to propel it into a new era of dynamism, and entertainment. Our commitment to making Ultimate Kho Kho larger, bolder, and the ultimate source of entertainment for Bharat aligns perfectly with IndianOil’s dedication to leaving a lasting legacy on the Indian sporting landscape. We are confident that this partnership will act as a catalyst for the growth of Kho Kho in India.”

With a presence in almost all the streams of oil, gas, petrochemicals, and alternative energy sources in the country, IndianOil stands as the nation’s highest-ranked Energy-PSU in the Fortune 500 of 2023.

As part of their association with Ultimate Kho Kho, IndianOil will secure the naming rights for the post-match award, recognizing the ‘Attacker of the Match.’ Additionally, IndianOil will also have the naming rights to the league’s exciting powerplay segment, which was dominated by Chennai Quick Guns’ stalwart all-rounder Ramji Kashyap who accumulated a total of 24 skydive points this season.

According to a YouGov Report, the first season of Ultimate Kho Kho reached a massive audience of 164 million across various media touchpoints, emerging among the top 3 non-cricket leagues in India.

Promoted by Amit Burman in collaboration with the Kho Kho Federation of India, the ongoing season 2 of Ultimate Kho Kho will witness high-octane action between the top four teams – Chennai Quick Guns, Odisha Juggernauts, Gujarat Giants and Telugu Yoddhas during its semi-finals which are scheduled to be played on 11 January 2024.

January 11, 2024
South United FC opens three training centres

Mumbai: South United Football Club (SUFC), the country’s only profitable private club whose first team plays in the Bengaluru super division currently, has officially announced the opening of three training centres in Pune, intending to bolster the rich footballing culture of the city and make it a hub for the sport in Western India. These three centres of the South United Football Academy that have already begun their enrolment process are based out of Undri, Bavdhan and Kharadi, in the city of Pune, providing FIFA-Grade state-of-the-art facilities to identify and nurture budding talent from the city and also from other parts of Maharashtra.

These centres will provide an opportunity for people from all age groups to build a community around the sport. The club, which is well established in Bengaluru with their FIFA-standard facility in Ulsoor, has chosen Pune as their first port of call as they begin to act on their expansion plans.

Speaking on the development, South United Sports Foundation sporting director Terrence Phelan said, “SUFC’s aim has always been to develop a structure for grassroots football in India, which we believe we have done quite successfully in Bengaluru. We want to replicate the same success in Pune. We know that the city and some surrounding regions have a rich tradition of football and we want to help the talent here realise their potential, while at the same time give everyone a feeling of community at our centres and academies subsequently. We are excited about Pune’s future in football.”

SUFC will provide demo sessions at their centres on 14, 21, and 28 of January, to give a glimpse of the activities that the club will provide at the centres. This will also allow upcoming talent not only from Pune but also from other footballing hotbeds of Maharashtra like Kolhapur, Mumbai, Sangli etc.

They have partnered with Ileseum Clubs in the three centres. The centres in Bavdhan and Kharadi have an 11-a-side pitch while Undri will have a 7-a-side pitch. SUFC will run their Elite Programme, which will provide free training to talented kids, enabling free coaching for selected talent from June in Bavdhan and Kharadi only.

SUFC CEO Pranav Trehan said, “We have chosen Pune strategically for our first step of expansion. Pune has a very good football culture and SUFC will provide a space for all football lovers to come together and be active around the sport. The youth programmes in our academies is the perfect step for young kids to take the next step in the sport. With our state of the art infrastructure and development programmes focusing on grassroots development, we are sure that SUFC can make Pune the footballing hub of Western India.”

SUFC’s dedication extends beyond its training programmes. The Academy actively participates in community outreach and development initiatives. These efforts ensure that football reaches every corner of society, irrespective of socio-economic backgrounds and the club aims to provide such a community feeling in Pune also.

January 10, 2024
Tiger Shroff ignites Pro Kabaddi League in Mumbai with star-studded presence

Mumbai: The Mumbai leg of the Pro Kabaddi League commenced with a glamorous launch, featuring notable personalities like Akshay Kumar and Pankaj Tripathi. Tiger Shroff, the ambassador for Pro Kabaddi League Season 10, brought an additional dose of excitement as he graced the stadium during the recent match between U Mumba and Dabang Delhi, infusing the event with his charismatic presence.

The star of ‘Student of the Year 2,’ who portrayed a Kabaddi player in the film, fondly reminisced about his experience learning the sport for the movie. He expressed admiration for the Kabaddi players’ fitness and dedication, stating, “The dedication I witness in their fitness routines is truly inspirational. Kabaddi demands a specific level of flexibility, agility, and strength, and I can confidently say that these players have set a commendable standard. Without a doubt, we have some of the fittest men in the country playing this game.”

Shroff also emphasised the pride he feels as the brand ambassador for Kabaddi, said, “It’s truly an honor to be associated with this organization. I extend my heartfelt congratulations to the Pro Kabaddi League on reaching its 10th season. Managing and sustaining numerous seasons is an arduous task, and today, it’s commendable to witness the league’s endurance. I recognize Kabaddi’s impressive ascent, swiftly becoming the second most-watched sport, following cricket, in a relatively brief period”.

During his visit, the ‘Heropanti’ actor engaged in a playful segment with Dabang Delhi’s Ashu Malik and U Mumba’s Mahender Singh, where both players recited dialogues from his movies. Tiger Shroff also took the opportunity to practice some Kabaddi moves and skills, adding a touch of fun to his visit.

January 10, 2024
Sportz Interactive gears up for global growth in 2024

Mumbai: Sportz Interactive (SI), along with its Singapore-based parent company, Sportz Solutions Global, is gearing up for international expansion in 2024 with an enhanced solution suite focused on maximising fan affinity and commercialisation for sports organisations. Embarking on this journey with SI is the lead investor in the Sportz Group, Marathon Edge, a leading Private Equity investor. The Sportz Group also aims to set up offices in Europe later this year.

For its next phase of global growth, the organisation is scaling up its products and services that focus on driving fan acquisition, retention and commercialisation for its customers through data, technology, and marketing solutions. The Sportz Group has also launched ‘Fanalytics’ as an offering that will help sports organisations get a deeper understanding of their fan base and drive tangible business outcomes.

The Sportz Group also announced a new organisational structure to align with this new expansion strategy. Arvind Iyengar will continue to serve as CEO, Sportz Solutions Global as well as chairman, Sportz Interactive. Iyengar also confirmed the appointment of Siddharth Raman as the CEO of Sportz Interactive.

Prior to this, Raman was deputy CEO and had joined SI as chief business officer in 2017. Sanket Sawkar, who is part of the founding team, will continue in his role as Group CTO and COO for Sportz Interactive.

Founded in 2002, the organisation’s journey from a humble garage space to its current sporty ‘arena’ is a reflection of how the business has successfully evolved over the years – even during the pandemic years. The Sportz Group’s products and services have impacted millions of fans around the world. The organisation’s customers cover multiple stakeholders in the sports ecosystem including international federations, broadcasters, franchises, media houses, technology companies, brands, and sponsors from around the world. Some of its marquee clients include UEFA, The Olympics, NBA, F1, Google, BCCI, FIH, Jio Cinema, Dream11 and multiple IPL franchises.

Sportz Solutions Global CEO and Sportz Interactive chairman Arvind Iyengar said: “We are all extremely excited about the new solution suite we have developed that focuses on driving fan acquisition, retention, and commercialisation for our customers. These solutions, coupled with our core data, technology and content offerings provide a one-stop shop to organisations looking to supercharge their sports fan experience.”

Speaking on the development, Marathon Edge partner Nikhil Raghavan added: “Sports organisations around the world are grappling with how to engage and monetise their fan base in the digital world. The Sportz Group has shown incredible thought leadership in envisioning a solution suite that opens new revenue streams while also increasing fans’ affinity to their team or sport.”

January 9, 2024
ZEE Entertainment unveils star-studded commentator panel for DP World ILT20 Season 2

Mumbai: ZEE Entertainment Enterprises Ltd (ZEEL), the official broadcaster of DP World ILT20, has announced a star-studded panel of commentators for the league’s upcoming second season. The world’s second most-watched league will be brought to life by a panel rounded-off with some of the leading cricketing experts in the world. The voices behind some of the most iconic moments in the sport in recent years — Virender Sehwag, Harbhajan Singh, Rohan Gavaskar, Saba Karim, Nikhil Chopra, Vivek Razdan, Wasim Akram, Waqar Younis and Shoaib Akhtar, who will be joined by Alan Wilkins, Simon Doull, Daren Ganga, Danny Morrison and Niall O’Brien.

With an illustrious array of distinguished personalities and renowned voices gracing the commentary panel, ZEE Entertainment promises to deliver captivating action from the league’s second season in an engaging and dynamic fashion. Former India captain Anjum Chopra as well as high-profile sports broadcasters Reema Malhotra and Natalie Germanos will be three esteemed female commentators on the panel.

These accomplished individuals bring a wealth of experience, knowledge, and a deep passion for the game, promising to deliver comprehensive coverage and expert insights throughout the league’s upcoming season, elevating the cricket-viewing experience. The commentary will be available in English and Hindi languages.

Starting 19th January 2024, cricket fans can watch this only global T20 league on Zee’s most widely distributed and viewed 10 linear TV channels: &Pictures, &Pictures HD, Zee Cinema HD, Zee Anmol Cinema, Zee Zest, Zee Ganga, Zee Cinemalu HD, &Flix, &Flix HD and Zee Zest HD and leading OTT platform ZEE5. All single header matches will be broadcast Live at 8 pm India prime time, starting with the pre-match presentation at 7:30 pm. The afternoon match on the double-header’s day will start at 4:00 pm.

Speaking on this announcement, ZEE Entertainment Enterprises Ltd (ZEEL) president – business Rahul Johri said, “We are delighted to unveil our distinguished commentator panel for the upcoming DP World ILT20 Season 2. The expertise and diverse perspectives of our esteemed commentators will undoubtedly enhance the excitement surrounding this premier cricketing event. As the upcoming season boasts presence of some of the biggest cricket stars worldwide, DP World ILT20 promises to be one of the most-competitive cricket leagues globally. With the league’s rising stature and global appeal, we are thrilled to bring this cricketing spectacle for the audience across the world.”

Expressing his enthusiasm for commentating at the DP World ILT20, Virender Sehwag exclaimed, “UAE’s meteoric rise as a cricketing powerhouse in recent years is truly remarkable, and the DP World ILT20 is undoubtedly another jewel in its cricketing crown. As the highly anticipated Season 2 of the league is around the corner, I am anticipating electrifying performances from power-packed players. Following the phenomenal success garnered by the league’s inaugural season, I am confident in ZEE’s unwavering commitment to amplify the league and offer an exhilarating experience on display for global audiences.”

Speaking about commentating in DP World ILT20, former legendary fast bowler Wasim Akram said, “I am truly thrilled to be part of the commentary team for the second season of DP World ILT20. The three iconic venues in the UAE will serve as the canvas for some of the most prominent T20 stars to showcase their talent.”

Adding to this, former English cricketer and well-known commentator Alan Wilkins said, “I am honoured to be part of the esteemed commentary panel for the upcoming season of DP World ILT20. The recognised global league will be a celebration of the spirit of cricket as the sporting extravaganza unfolds across the UAE. As the second-most watched T20 cricket league globally, I believe that ZEE Entertainment is committed to making the league bigger and better, offering a fresh and exciting experience to a global audience.”

Former Indian cricketer Rohan Gavaskar said, “As we step into the exciting journey of the DP World ILT20’s second season, I invite viewers to get ready for a captivating cricket experience on &Pictures and ZEE5. Featuring a global array of talent and strategic team plays, this season promises fans worldwide a thrilling and engaging spectacle.”

Speaking about the magnitude of the league, former Pakistan cricketer and coach, Waqar Younis who will be part of the upcoming season’s commentator panel said, “DP World ILT20 is truly a cricketing rendezvous, featuring a mix of seasoned players and rising stars, making the league a must-watch for cricket enthusiasts globally. It is a celebration of cricketing diversity, with an array of player and team rivalries. I am very excited to be part of the commentators’ panel for the upcoming edition.”

The truly international league’s six franchise teams include Abu Dhabi Knight Riders (Kolkata Knight Riders), Desert Vipers (Lancer Capital), Dubai Capitals (GMR), Gulf Giants (Adani Sportsline), MI Emirates (Reliance Industries), and Sharjah Warriors (Capri Global). Some of the world’s most prominent cricket stars are slated to play in the Season 2, including David Warner, Sunil Narine, Andre Russell, Ambati Rayudu, Corey Anderson, Dwayne Bravo, Kieron Pollard, Trent Boult, Dasun Shanaka, Rahmanullah Gurbaz, Sam Billings, David Willey, Alex Hales, Tom Curran, Rovman Powell, Shimron Hetmyer, James Vince, Chris Woakes and Martin Guptill.

The 34-match event will be played at the three iconic UAE venues – Abu Dhabi, Dubai and Sharjah – starting 19 January 2024 to 17 February 2024. DP World ILT20 defending champions – Gulf Giants will be facing Sharjah Warriors, followed by Dubai Capitals’ opening match against MI Emirates. Dubai Capitals are set to begin their Season 2 on 20 January 2024. Last year’s runner-up Desert Vipers will open their campaign against the Abu Dhabi Knight Riders on 21 January at the Dubai International Stadium.

January 9, 2024
IDCA inaugurates 1stT10 Women’s Deaf Premier League 2024 in association with Serum Institute of India, Cyrus Poonawalla Group

Mumbai: The IDCA 1st T 10 Women’s Deaf Premier League 2024, in association with Serum Institute of India, a part of Cyrus Poonawalla Group, wasformally inaugurated in a glittering ceremony by the Chief Guest, Mr. Bhavin Thakkar, former cricketer, and three-times Ranji Trophy winner. Guest of Honor included Mr. Paschim Pathak, well know Umpire, Ms. Shalini Singh, Group Head – Brand & Communications, RPG Group, Mr.Jaswinder Narang, CEO, Villoo Poonawalla Foundation, representing Serum Institute of India, Cyrus Poonawalla Group, principal partner, Mr. Sujeet Jain, Chief Legal & Regulatory Officer, Nykaa.-Patron Partner, Sandeep Kumar, Head CSR-ICIL Ltd. CSR partner, Michael Kotas-Managing Director, John Cockerill India.

The inaugural ceremony was attended by a galaxy of dignitaries from the cricketing & corporate world supporting this maiden Women’s Deaf Premier League, Mr. Prashant Athawale, renowned Commentator; Dr. Chirag Doshi, notablestatisticianand Umpire;and Mr. Dev Dutt, BCCI Certified Coach.

Dedicated to nurturing upcoming sports talent among specially abled youth, Serum Institute of India, a part of Cyrus Poonawalla Group, has joined hands with the Indian Deaf Cricket Association (IDCA) as the Principal Partner. In this role, the group will extend full support to IDCA for the hearing-impaired women’s tournament as they compete in this power-packed Deaf Premier League to win the coveted cup.

Addressing the gathering at the inaugural ceremony, Thakkar said, “It is a proud moment for me to be associated with IDCA T10 Women’s Deaf Premier League. This league provides a platform for specially-abled women to showcase their talent. They have worked really hard towards it, and I am truly glad to be associated with them. I am also thankful to all partners who are supporting this cause, and I look forward to being a part of it for the years to come. This is indeed a proud moment for me, and together by doing our bit, we can make a big impact for specially-abled women. Let’s help them dream and believe that they too can achieve great heights.”

Speaking at the inaugural ceremony, IDCA president Sumit Jain said, “Today is an important tournament as it signals IDCA’s focus on promoting not only world-class cricket but also emphasis on nurturing diversity and inclusion. All our partners share our vision and are committed to helping hearing-impaired cricketing talent and join the ‘DaretoDream’ movement to mainstream these players who have won many accolades for India. This is also a very special tournament as it is the first IDCA T 10 Women’s Deaf Premier league in 2024.”

IDCA CEO Roma Balwani welcoming the chief guest andguest of honour at the inaugural ceremony said, “We are truly honouredby the presence of dignitaries who have come today to celebrate and motivate these hearing-impaired women of substance, who will demonstrate their prowess on the cricket field.Our Hon’ble Prime Minister Shri Modiji has been championing the cause of disability sport in a significant way. He has also promoted the universal usage of sign language which will create more awareness and help break barriers for the hearing-impaired members of communities at large”.

IDCAcommented patron Reena Jain Malhotra said, “It was a special moment for us at IDCA to see our women players come together to play the prestigious maiden IDCA T-10 Deaf Premier League in Mumbai. We are very thankful to all our support partners for their belief in the cause of hearing-impaired cricket. We hope to nurture and make it bigger and better in the year to come”.

Indo Count Industries and IDCA’s CSR partner chairman Anil Jain for this tournament in his congratulatory message to the teams said, “The human spirit is always full of ability, perseverance and courage, which helps in removing barriers related to disabilities.When the promotion of sports is in the fray, this spirit achieves even greater significance. We wish the Indian Deaf Women Cricketers all the very best to compete amongst themselves with their best abilities and play the beautiful game of cricket in best of the spirit”.

In support are IDCA’s long term partners, KFC India, Hero Moto Corp, Collearn, Impact Research, Cognito & Kaizzen.

January 9, 2024
‘Game-changers: Top gaming startups revolutionising the industry’

Mumbai: India’s gaming landscape is undergoing transformative growth, expected to reach an estimated $7.5 billion by 2028, according to the State of India Gaming Report FY23. As the gaming fever continues to engage audiences, various startups are emerging as major players, introducing innovative concepts and experiences to the vibrant gaming community. As we approach National Startups Day on January 16th, let’s explore the top gaming startups reshaping the industry.

Hitwicket Superstars-

Hitwicket has redefined the cricket gaming experience, allowing users to play cricket as a team owner, coach and player. With engaging gameplay and a global user base, Hitwicket is making waves as the best-rated mobile cricket game in the gaming sphere.

Paytm First Games-

As an integral part of the Paytm ecosystem, Paytm First Games offers various gaming options, including fantasy sports, card games, and more. The platform has garnered widespread popularity for its seamless integration with the Paytm app and its easy-to-play yet fun games.

Loco Games-

Loco Games has carved its niche in the gaming industry with a focus on creating interactive and engaging live game shows. Users can participate in real-time quizzes and challenges, adding an exciting social element to gaming, making it one of the most compelling gaming startups.

Dream11-

Dream11 has revolutionised fantasy sports gaming in India, providing users with a platform to create their teams for various sports such as cricket, football, hockey and many more. The startup has gained immense popularity and has become synonymous with fantasy sports in the country.

Jet Synthesys-

Jet Synthesys as a key player in the gaming sector has offered cutting-edge solutions in game development and technology. Known for its innovation, Jet Synthesys brings a diverse portfolio of games such as Sachin Saga Cricket Champions, and Bajrangi Bhaijaan to the market, indulging gaming audiences worldwide.

January 9, 2024
SPNI renews exclusive UFC broadcast rights in Indian subcontinent

Mumbai: Sony Pictures Networks India (SPNI), the leading sports broadcaster in the Indian subcontinent, has announced the extension of the exclusive broadcast rights for Ultimate Fighting Championship (UFC) in India, Afghanistan, Bangladesh, Bhutan, Maldives, Nepal, Pakistan, and Sri Lanka for five years. The terms of the agreement include exclusive television and digital media rights for a wide range of UFC events through 2028.

The premier promotion for Mixed Martial Arts (MMA) worldwide, UFC caters to a massive global audience. UFC is renowned for its top-class fights along with talented fighters and is a dream platform for fighters across the world to showcase their MMA skills. UFC features many of the world’s greatest fighters, including Israel Adesanya, Leon Edwards, Jon Jones, Islam Makhachev, Sean O’Malley, Alex Pereira, and Alexander Volkanovski. Some of the best up-and-coming fighters in UFC are coming out of Eurasia, which has a rapidly expanding fan base for the sport. And with the UFC roster inclusion of Anshul Jubli, the first fighter from India to receive win a UFC contract via winning the tournament for Asia’s best MMA prospects, ROAD TO UFC, and Puja Tomar, the first India-born female fighter, the timing could not have been better to make headway in the Indian subcontinent.

Effective 1 January 2024, the agreement solidifies SPNI’s commitment to delivering premium UFC content to fans across the region on Sony Sports Network and SonyLiv. The comprehensive rights package includes exclusive coverage of 42 UFC LIVE events, encompassing 12 pay-per-view (PPV) and 30 fight night events each year featuring both Main Card and Preliminary bouts, along with additional content that includes UFC Countdown, UFC Connected, a variety of archive content, and Dana White’s Contender Series, a 10-episode live fight series which features up-and-coming talent trying to secure a contract with UFC .

In addition to live events, Sony Sports Network will continue to broadcast live in Asia prime time the ground-breaking “win and advance” tournament for Asia’s top MMA prospects, ROAD TO UFC. Sony Sports Network will also have access to archive content that will further enable them to engage audiences with the rich history of the sport.

Sony Pictures Networks India chief revenue officer – distribution & International business and head – sports business Rajesh Kaul,

“We are delighted to extend our partnership with UFC for five more years. Sony Sports Network is the go-to destination for MMA fans in the Indian subcontinent. We have also seen the inclusion of ‘The King of Lions’ aka Anshul Jubli along with Puja Tomar in 2023 has raised interest for UFC in India. Our partnership extension with UFC allows us to continue the exclusive coverage of live UFC events in English, Hindi, Tamil and Telugu along with an expansive portfolio programming to engage our viewers.”

UFC SVP and head of Asia Kevin Chang, “We are delighted to continue our partnership with Sony Sports Network, which will remain the home for UFC in India. Sony Sports Network has been a valuable and trusted partner, helping to expand the UFC brand in many ways, from their ‘Ultimate Guide to UFC’ show, to their media and social promotions. We’re excited to extend our partnership and ushering in the next generation of Indian talent.”

Watch the LIVE coverage of UFC on Sony Sports Ten 1 (English), Sony Sports Ten 3 (Hindi) & Sony Sports Ten 4 (Tamil & Telugu) channels.

Sony Sports Network is the premier destination for all the thrilling live action from UFC.

January 9, 2024
LALIGA organises ‘LALIGA AWARDS, The Pride of our Fútbol’

Mumbai: LALIGA, as part of its agreement with Globe Soccer, organises the “LALIGA AWARDS, The Pride of our Fútbol,” which consists of five monthly awards recognising the best goal, best player, best coach, best play and best U23 player, while recognition will also be given to the Team of the Season and the top player in terms of their social contribution.

To decide these prizes, the opinions of an expert committee are combined with the views from fans, who can vote for each month’s winners on the website titled: Feel the power of our Fútbol | LALIGA.

Girona FC’s Ukrainian striker Artem Dovbyk named Best Player.

High-flying Girona FC continue to be the surprise package of the LALIGA EA SPORTS season, sitting level on points with leaders Real Madrid after 19 matches and racking up three wins and a draw from four matches throughout December. One man who has played a fundamental role in this continued streak is Artem Dovbyk, whose four goals in those four games – including one in his side’s historic and unprecedented 4-2 win away at local rivals and reigning champions FC Barcelona – have led him to be named Best Player for December.

So impressive have Girona FC’s performances been this past month that Dovbyk’s teammate Yan Couto takes home the Best U23 Player award. The Brazilian has been almost ever-present for the Catalans this season, and this month contributed three assists including one for club stalwart and all-time leading scorer Cristhian Stuani in his side’s dramatic 2-1 win over Valencia CF at Montilivi.

Elsewhere, Athletic Club’s continued form sees Ernesto Valverde recognized as Best Coach. Los Leones sit in fifth place, just three points off a Champions League spot, with Valverde, now in his third spell in charge at San Mamés, masterminding three wins from four matches across December, including a convincing 2-0 win over title-challengers Atlético de Madrid. Athletic Club stars Nico Williams and Iñigo Lekue also take home the Best Play of the month award for their link-up play in that very same match, a move which began on the right flank and ended with a sensational strike from Nico into Jan Oblak’s top right corner from the most unlikely of angles.

Finally, the Best Goal award goes to Real Betis wide man Aitor Ruibal – who has played mostly as a right-back this season – for his remarkable long-range strike against LALIGA EA SPORTS leaders Real Madrid. The goal secured a point for Los Verdiblancos and kept Manuel Pellegrini’s men well and truly in the hunt for a European spot.

January 9, 2024

BAI-REC partnership provides international exposure to 28 Indian shuttlers

Mumbai: The Badminton Association of India (BAI), with support from REC, will fund the country’s 28 talented shuttlers for international tournaments to help them improve rankings and also provide much-needed foreign exposure, required to play in top-level international badminton tournaments.

The players ranked between 26 and 75 in the BWF world rankings along with top performers from the recent senior national championships, who are not part of the national camp but have already shown signs of brilliance, like reigning Abu Dhabi Masters champion Unnati Hooda and Tanvi Sharma, the silver medallist at the 2023 Badminton Asia U-17 Junior Championships, are among the 28 players across singles and doubles category who have been chosen based on their performances across multiple tournaments. These players will be fully funded for the tournaments.

“Badminton Association of India is committed to ensure promising talents get much-needed support to showcase their potential as the national campers even if they are not part of the national camp. Our partnership with REC will not only help us broad base these opportunities and give shuttlers more and more opportunities to participate in multiple international challenger events as well as Super 300s and thereby better their rankings as well as gain experience of playing against foreign players. This initiative aligns with our goals to create strong opportunities for more players to show their abilities as well as compete and benefit from the national badminton structure,” said BAI secretary Sanjay Mishra.

This opportunity has also been extended to the current senior national singles champions Chirag Sen and Anmol Kharb as well as runners-up Tharun Mannepalli and 15-year-old Tanvi Sharma – one of the youngest finalists in history. The doubles national champions Suraj Goala and Pruthvi Roy, and Priya Konjengbam and Shruti Mishra have also been included.

The selected players have been given the option to choose three tournaments, including two Super 300 events — the Orleans Masters and Swiss Open – from a total of eight tournaments, for which BAI will extend complete financial support to each of the shuttlers.

Full list of players:

Men’s singles:

1. Sathish Kumar Karunakaran (World Rank 51)

2. S Sankar Muthusamy Subramanian (WR 71)

3. Sameer Verma (WR 74)

4. Chirag Sen (Senior Nationals champion)

5. Tharun Mannepalli (Senior Nationals runner-up)

Women’s Singles:

1.Aakarshi Kashyap (WR 40)

2.Malvika Bansod (WR 52)

3.Unnati Hooda (WR 56)

4. Tanya Hemanth (WR 69)

5.Tasnim Mir (WR 73)

6.Imad Farooqui Samiya (WR 74)

7.Anmol Kharb (Senior National Champion)

8.Tanvi Sharma (Senior National runner-up)

Men’s Doubles:

1.Hariharan Amsakarunan/Ruban Kumar Rethinasabapathi (WR 70)

2.P.S Ravikrishna/Sankar Prasad Udayakunar (WR 75)

3.Suraj Goala/Pruthvi Krishnamurthy Roy (Senior Nationals champions)

Women’s Doubles:

1. Ashwini Bhat K/Shikha Gautam (WR 49)

2.Rutaparna Panda/Swetaparna Panda (WR 52)

3.Simran Singh/Ritika Thaker (WR 63)

4.Priya Konjengbam/Shruti Mishra (Senior National champions)

Mixed Doubles:

1. Sathish Kumar Karunakaran/Aadya Variyath (WR 64)

LIST OF TOURNAMENTS

SR NO	TOURNAMENT NAME	DATE	VENUE
1	LI NING SRI LANKA INTERNATIONAL CHALLENGE 2024	FEB 5-11, 2024	GALLE, SRI LANKA
2	AZERBAIJAN INTERNATIONAL 2024	FEB 8-11, 2024	BAKU, AZERBAIJAN
3	LI NING SRI LANKA INTERNATIONAL SERIES,2024	DEB 12-18, 2024	GALLE, SRI LANKA
4	59TH PORTUGAL INTERNATIONAL SERIES	MARCH 6-10, 2024	CALDAS da RAINHA, PORTUGAL
5	ORLEANS MASTERS 2024- SUPER 300	MARCH 12-17, 2024	ORLEANS, FRANCE
6	CIPUTRA HANOI – YONEX SUNRISE VIETNAM INTERNATIONAL CHALLENGE 2024	MARCH 12-17, 2024	HANOI, VIETNAM
7	DUTCH INTERNATIONAL SERIES	MARCH 14-14, 2024	WATERINGEN, NETHERLANDS
8	SWISS OPEN-SUPER 300	MARCH 19-24,2024	BASEL, SWITZERLAND

January 8, 2024