‘The fans in Patna have boosted our performance,’ says Patna Pirates’ Head Coach Narender Redhu
In a kabaddi showdown that left fans on the edge of their seats, the Patna Pirates dominated the Gujarat Giants with a resounding 32-20 triumph. This victory not only secured their fourth spot in the Pro Kabaddi League Season 10 points table but also marked their unbeaten run in the last four matches. Coach Narender Redhu, brimming with pride, credited the team’s success to intense practice sessions before their home leg. “We fixed our mistakes and played patiently against the Giants, adapting to the game’s twists,” said Redhu, emphasizing the team’s strategic approach. Singling out defender Ankit for praise, Redhu applauded the entire team for their clarity in roles and unwavering confidence. “They were sure of winning, and they did it,” he remarked. Redhu spotlighted the team’s dynamic composition, commending star raiders Sachin and Manjeet, supported by Sudhakar and Sandeep. The all-rounder Rohit, in Redhu’s words, emerged as a consistent superstar, seizing opportunities with gusto. The coach also tipped his hat to the passionate Patna fans, whose electric presence in the stadium worked wonders for the team’s morale. “Players are automatically pumped up in Patna. Thanks to the fans for their tremendous support,” expressed Redhu. Looking ahead to the final home game against Bengaluru Bulls, Redhu exuded confidence, promising another win for the home crowd. “We’ll definitely win our last game against Bengaluru Bulls in front of our home fans,” he declared. As the Patna Pirates ride the wave of success in Pro Kabaddi League Season 10, their eyes are set on maintaining the winning streak and making a strong playoff push. The team’s stellar performance continues to captivate fans, making every match a thrilling spectacle. The Sportz Planet Desk
Shivam Patare, Siddharth Desai steer Haryana Steelers to win over Bengal Warriors
In a thrilling Pro Kabaddi League encounter at the Patliputra Indoor Stadium in Patna on Monday, Haryana Steelers delivered a masterclass, clinching a vital 41-36 victory over Bengal Warriors and significantly boosting their playoff chances. The contest began with both teams fiercely vying for control, resulting in a close scoreline of 8-9 midway through the opening half. However, it was the Haryana Steelers who managed to break the deadlock, surging ahead 16-12 on the back of impressive raiding displays from Vinay and Shivam Patare. Seizing an opportunity to extend their lead, Haryana found Bengal Warriors down to just one player. Yet, Bengal’s skipper, Maninder Singh, turned the tables with a spectacular SUPER RAID, securing three crucial points. Shrikant Jadhav then followed it up with a fiery SUPER TACKLE on Shivam, allowing Bengal Warriors to take an 18-16 lead at halftime. Despite beginning the second half with only three players, Haryana Steelers mounted a remarkable comeback. Siddharth Desai’s exceptional raiding prowess, earning four crucial points, led to an ALL OUT within four minutes, propelling Haryana to a 24-22 lead. Siddharth continued to wreak havoc in the second half, achieving a Super 10 with a stylish multi-point raid. Shivam’s two-pointer further widened the gap as Haryana Steelers enforced their second ALL OUT in the 33rd minute, taking an 8-point lead at 37-29 with seven minutes remaining. Despite a late surge from Bengal Warriors, with Maninder claiming a Super 10 and reducing Haryana to just two defenders, it proved too little too late. Haryana Steelers completed the double over Bengal Warriors, securing a well-deserved victory. This commanding performance not only solidifies Haryana Steelers’ position in the playoffs race but also underscores their resilience and strategic brilliance on the kabaddi mat. The Sportz Planet Desk
Following success at block and district levels, Nua-O Sports Championship reaches state level; set to kickstart with Volleyball
In a triumphant progression from block and district triumphs, the Nua-O Sports Championship is set to hit the state level, orchestrating an exhilarating showcase of athletic prowess from January 30, 2024. Launched by the Sports and Youth Services Department of the Government of Odisha in November 2023, this championship has seamlessly blended cultural and sports events, emerging as a beacon for youth engagement and empowerment in the state. After a vibrant series of competitions spanning Block Level/ULB Level, Institutional Level, and District level, the spotlight now shifts to the state-level showdown. The battle will unfold across six disciplines—kho-kho, cricket, hockey, football, kabaddi, and volleyball. Only the district champions, having navigated through the crucible of local competition, will vie for top honors at the state level, where a ‘knock-out’ format promises nail-biting encounters, with elimination looming over the losing team in each round. The inaugural volley of the state-level competitions will commence with Volleyball on January 30, 2024, at the prestigious Biju Patnaik Indoor Stadium, KIIT University, Bhubaneswar. The fervor continues as the Hockey tournament, showcasing prowess in both genders, unfolds from January 31 to February 8 in Rourkela. Simultaneously, the football fever will grip Bhubaneswar Football Academy from February 1 to February 12. The cricket enthusiasts are in for a treat from February 6 to 16 in Puri, with kho-kho following suit from February 6 to 10, and kabaddi stamping its authority from February 13 to 17, both at KIIT University, Bhubaneswar. Looking ahead to this grand spectacle, Vineel Krishna, Secretary, Sports & Youth Services Department, Odisha, expressed his enthusiasm, stating, “Nua-O Sports Competitions is a unique youth engagement initiative that harmoniously melds sports and community. It has ignited a fervor among our youth, and the response has been tremendous. Anticipation is high for the Nua-O State Sports Competitions, where district champions will vie for glory. This initiative plays a crucial role in nurturing talent, building teamwork, and fostering a sense of culture.” Adding to the excitement, substantial prize money awaits the victors. The winning teams at the state level competitions will be awarded Rs 2 lakh, with the 1st runners-up receiving Rs 1 lakh, and the 2nd runners-up walking away with Rs 50,000. As the state braces for the culmination of this sporting extravaganza, the Nua-O Sports Championship stands not just as a testament to athletic prowess but as a vibrant canvas depicting Odisha’s commitment to youth development and community building through the unifying spirit of sports. The Sportz Planet Desk
‘We planned to attack U Mumba’s defence unit,’ says Tamil Thalaivas’ Captain Sagar
In a remarkable display of strength and strategy, the Tamil Thalaivas secured their fourth consecutive victory by overpowering U Mumba with a convincing score of 50-34 in the Pro Kabaddi League Season 10, propelling them from the tenth to the seventh position. Captain Sagar, the driving force behind the Thalaivas’ success, revealed the key to their triumph. “We identified U Mumba’s defensive weaknesses early in the season, and we capitalized on that knowledge. Our raiders set the tone from the beginning, maintaining relentless pressure on their defenders throughout the game.” Reflecting on the team’s recent winning streak, Sagar acknowledged the initial hurdles. “We struggled with coordination in the early season, making mistakes that cost us games. However, we’ve rectified our errors and are executing our plans flawlessly on the mat now.” Head Coach Ashan Kumar attributed their recent success to a well-balanced team. “Our combination has clicked in the last few games, with players performing without succumbing to mental pressure. While we’ve faced tough competition this season, often ending up on the wrong side of close games, we’ll continue to give our best in the upcoming matches.” Looking ahead to their next challenge against the Jaipur Pink Panthers, Coach Ashan expressed confidence. “Jaipur has a formidable defensive lineup, but we boast a robust raiding and defense unit. We’re crafting a strong plan to face the Panthers, and I anticipate a compelling contest against them.” The Tamil Thalaivas will face the Jaipur Pink Panthers in Patna on Wednesday, promising an exciting showdown between two skilled and determined teams. The Sportz Planet Desk
Chennai to host Season 3 of RuPay Prime Volleyball League from 15th February 2024
In a thrilling announcement for volleyball enthusiasts, the eagerly awaited third edition of the RuPay Prime Volleyball League powered by A23 is all set to kick off on February 15th, 2024, in the vibrant city of Chennai. The tournament, featuring nine franchises vying for glory, promises a spectacular display of skill and competition, culminating in the Final on March 21st at the SDAT Multi – purpose Indoor Stadium, Chennai. The opening clash on February 15th will witness the defending champions, Ahmedabad Defenders, facing off against the home team, Chennai Blitz. Simultaneously, last year’s runners-up, Bengaluru Torpedoes, will lock horns with Season 1 winners, Kolkata Thunderbolts, adding an extra layer of excitement to the tournament. This season, the RuPay Prime Volleyball League introduces an innovative twist with the inclusion of Super 5s, enhancing the overall experience for fans. Scheduled between March 11th and March 18th, this stage will see the top five teams from the League stage engage in a round-robin format. The team finishing first secures a direct qualification for the Final, while the second and third-placed teams will battle it out in the Eliminator on March 19th. The victorious team in the Eliminator will earn the second spot in the Final. Expressing his enthusiasm for hosting the tournament in Chennai, Shri Udhayanidhi Stalin, the Minister of Youth Welfare and Sports Development of Tamil Nadu, said, “Volleyball holds a special place in the hearts of the people of Tamil Nadu, and hosting the RuPay Prime Volleyball League is a testament to our commitment to the sport. We extend a warm welcome to all teams and players, hoping their presence sparks a volleyball revolution in our state and inspires the next generation of athletes.” Joy Bhattacharjya, CEO of RuPay Prime Volleyball League powered by A23, expressed gratitude towards the Tamil Nadu government for their support. He noted, “Chennai boasts a passionate volleyball fan base, and we’re thrilled to bring the league to this vibrant city. With the addition of teams like Delhi Toofans from the North and the introduction of Super 5s, this season promises a unique and exciting experience for fans.” Bhattacharjya further emphasized the league’s commitment to innovation, stating, “We continually aim to enhance fan engagement. This season’s addition of international coaches to various teams brings a fresh perspective to Indian volleyball. Fans are in for a treat with a season that promises not only thrilling matches but also new dimensions to the competition.” As the countdown to February 15th begins, anticipation is building for a season that holds the promise of redefining the landscape of volleyball in India. The Sportz Planet Desk
Kalinga Super Cup 2024 concludes on a thrilling note; East Bengal edge past Odisha FC in Final
In a nail-biting finale to the Kalinga Super Cup, East Bengal FC emerged victorious, claiming the coveted title with a hard-fought 3-2 win over the host team, Odisha FC. The pulsating final, which extended into extra time, unfolded at the electric Kalinga Stadium on Sunday, leaving football enthusiasts on the edge of their seats. The winning trio of Nandha Kumar (51′), Saul Crespo (62′), and Cleiton Silva (110′) each found the net for East Bengal FC, securing their triumph. However, Odisha FC didn’t make it easy, with Diego Mauricio (39′) and Ahmed Jahouh (97′) delivering goals in a match that swung back and forth in a gripping display of skill and determination. The honors were bestowed by Shri V K Pandian, Hon’ble Chairman, 5T, and Nabin Odisha, who graced the occasion with their presence. A trophy and a cheque of Rs. 25 lakh were handed over to the triumphant East Bengal FC, marking their exceptional performance in the tournament. Post-event, Shri V K Pandian shared his congratulations, stating, “My heartfelt congratulations to East Bengal FC for winning the title.” He acknowledged the commendable performance of Odisha FC, highlighting their unwavering fighting spirit throughout the tournament. Shri V K Pandian emphasized the privilege Odisha had in hosting 16 clubs from across the country, expressing confidence that the success of the Kalinga Super Cup reflects the commitment of Hon’ble Chief Minister Sh Naveen Patnaik towards sports excellence, particularly in football. He added, “I am confident that the excitement and passion witnessed during the Kalinga Super Cup will inspire countless individuals to embrace the beautiful game, further fueling the popularity of football in our region.“ The momentous occasion at Kalinga Stadium, Bhubaneswar, saw the presence of dignitaries from the Government of Odisha, All India Football Federation (AIFF), and Football Association of Odisha (FAO), adding prestige to an already unforgettable chapter in Indian football history. The Sportz Planet Desk
Indian Women’s Hockey Team touches down in Bhubaneswar for FIH Hockey Pro League 2023/24
The excitement was palpable at the Biju Patnaik International Airport in Bhubaneswar on Sunday as the Indian Women’s Hockey Team touched down to embark on their FIH Hockey Pro League 2023/24 journey. The highly anticipated event is set to unfold at the iconic Kalinga Stadium in Bhubaneswar from 3rd to 9th February, before moving to the Birsa Munda Hockey Stadium in Rourkela, where the action will continue from 12th to 18th February. In a momentous decision, seasoned goalkeeper Savita will continue to lead the squad as Captain, with the dynamic Vandana Katariya serving as her deputy, adding experience and flair to the team’s leadership. The FIH Hockey Pro League 2023/24 will witness fierce competition among five national teams – India, China, the United States of America, the Netherlands, and Australia. The league format dictates each team will face off against one another once in Bhubaneswar and once in Rourkela. The Indian Women’s Team is set for an intense opening clash against reigning Asian Games Champions China on 3rd February, followed by a showdown with the Netherlands on 4th February. The team will then lock horns with Australia on 7th February before concluding their Bhubaneswar stint against the United States on 9th February. This marks the Indian women’s second appearance in the FIH Hockey Pro League, building on their impressive third-place finish in the 2021/22 season. The journey to the Pro League this year was secured with a remarkable 1-0 victory over Spain in the Final of the FIH Hockey Women’s Nations Cup Spain 2022. Chief Coach Janneke Schopman emphasized the significance of the FIH Hockey Pro League, stating, “As the team continues to improve, it is imperative that we give our best in the FIH Pro League and use this opportunity to test ourselves against some of the best teams in the world.” She added, “This season, we will also have the chance to secure qualification for the FIH Hockey World Cup 2026, so the team is prepared to give it their all from the first match.” The FIH Hockey Pro League promises riveting encounters, and Indian fans are eagerly anticipating the women’s team’s quest for glory on the global stage. Stay tuned for updates and witness the spirit of Indian women’s hockey in action! The Sportz Planet Desk
‘Our defenders could’ve controlled the game better,’ says Puneri Paltan’s Captain Aslam Inamdar
In a heart-stopping encounter on Saturday, the Puneri Paltan and Patna Pirates battled it out, ultimately settling for a 32-32 tie in Pro Kabaddi League Season 10. The Pune side held the lead for the majority of the game, but a resilient comeback from the Pirates in the final ten minutes leveled the playing field. Captain Aslam Inamdar of Puneri Paltan expressed his thoughts on the game, stating, “The tie resulted from our mistakes. I believe our defenders could have performed better. It’s crucial for us to practice hard, rectify our errors, and gear up for the upcoming important matches.“ With the Pirates leading by one point before the last raid, Captain Inamdar revealed the strategy during the team huddle, saying, “I knew Manjeet would aim for the bonus point on the final raid. I instructed my team to prevent him from securing the bonus point. A timely touch by our defender ensured the tie.“ Mohammadreza Shadloui Chiyaneh played a pivotal role for Puneri Paltan, earning crucial touch points. Commenting on Shadloui’s raiding prowess, Inamdar stated, “Shadloui is a formidable raider. The defenders struggle to anticipate his moves. Despite being caught towards the end, an important tackle allowed us to salvage a tie.” Looking ahead to their next match against Telugu Titans on Tuesday, Captain Inamdar emphasized the need to stay focused, saying, “While the Titans may not have playoff pressure, we will maintain our current momentum. Minimizing mistakes is our priority, as we cannot afford to underestimate any team in this competitive league.” The Puneri Paltan vs. Patna Pirates showdown will be remembered as a pulsating clash of skill and strategy, setting the stage for what promises to be an electrifying remainder of the Pro Kabaddi League Season 10. The Sportz Planet Desk
Hockey India congratulates Deep Grace Ekka on a glorious career
In a heartfelt announcement on social media, Deep Grace Ekka, the stalwart defender and penalty corner specialist, officially called time on her illustrious career, marking the end of an era in Indian Women’s Hockey. Hockey India took a moment on Saturday to extend warm congratulations to the two-time Olympian, recognizing her exceptional contributions to the team’s growth. Ekka’s journey in international hockey began at the tender age of 17 in 2011, with her debut in the Four Nation Tournament in Argentina. Hailing from Lulkidihi village in Sundargh district, Odisha, Ekka quickly became a pivotal figure in the National Camp after a standout performance at the U18 Girls Asia Cup in Bangkok. The highlight of Ekka’s career came in 2013 when she played a key role in the Indian Junior squad’s historic Bronze medal win at the Women’s Junior Hockey World Cup in Germany. That year, she also clinched a Bronze with the Senior side at the Women’s Asia Cup and a Silver at the Asian Champions Trophy. Ekka’s influence extended to the global stage, contributing to India’s qualification for the Rio Olympic Games – a historic moment for the team. At the recent Tokyo Olympics, where the Indian Women’s Hockey Team finished fourth, Ekka’s defensive prowess garnered admiration worldwide, winning over a billion hearts for their brave performance. Hailing from the SAI-SAG Centre in Odisha, 29-year-old Ekka has been a beacon of inspiration for young players in her state, showcasing the potential that can emerge from humble beginnings. Expressing his sentiments on Ekka’s retirement, Hockey India President Padma Shri Dr Dilip Tirkey stated, “For over a decade, Deep Grace Ekka has been a household name in women’s hockey. Her success has been a massive inspiration, not only in Odisha but across the country. She has displayed great sportsmanship and contributed immensely to the team’s growth. On behalf of Hockey India, I extend my best wishes for her future endeavors and congratulate her on an illustrious career.” As the curtains fall on Deep Grace Ekka’s remarkable international hockey career, her legacy will undoubtedly endure, leaving an indelible mark on the sport and inspiring generations to come. The Sportz Planet Desk
Hockey India congratulates Harbinder Singh on winning the prestigious Padma Shri
In a heartening moment for Indian hockey, the esteemed veteran, Harbinder Singh, has been conferred with the illustrious Padma Shri award. Hockey India extends warm congratulations to the legendary centre forward for his remarkable achievements on the field. Harbinder Singh’s indelible mark on Indian hockey was etched in the 1964 Olympic Games in Tokyo, where he played a pivotal role in securing a Gold Medal for the nation. In a historic final against arch-rivals Pakistan, the Indian team emerged triumphant, with Singh showcasing his prowess by scoring five crucial goals in his debut Olympic appearance. The veteran athlete’s illustrious career spanned from 1961 to 1972, during which he participated in three Olympic Games, clinching medals in each edition. Alongside the Gold in 1964, Singh contributed to India’s Bronze victories in the 1968 Mexico Olympics and the 1972 Munich Olympics. His legacy extends beyond the Olympic arena, as he played a vital role in India’s dominance in Asia, securing Gold in the 1966 Asian Games and Silver in 1970. Expressing joy over Harbinder Singh’s well-deserved recognition, Hockey India President Padma Shri Dr. Dilip Tirkey commented, “We are delighted that Harbinder Singh has been honored with the prestigious Padma Shri award for his exemplary hockey career. A role model for many, he continues to inspire the younger generation of hockey enthusiasts. Congratulations to him on this well-deserved accolade.” Hockey India Secretary General Shri Bhola Nath Singh also conveyed his happiness, stating, “On behalf of Hockey India, I extend heartfelt congratulations to Harbinder Singh. He stands tall as one of India’s finest centre forwards, earning accolades for the country. His enduring commitment to the sport is truly inspiring, as he continues to contribute in various capacities.” Harbinder Singh’s journey from the historic triumph in Tokyo to the present day exemplifies dedication, passion, and a commitment to the sport that has left an indelible impact on Indian hockey. The Padma Shri award is not just a recognition of his past achievements but also a celebration of his enduring influence on the sport’s legacy. The Sportz Planet Desk