Building Future Champions: Integrating Sports Science Into Grassroots Level Sports

Sports world is undergoing change at a level never seen before and among the key catalysts of this change, the employment of sports science is the most crucial. However, with more attention towards holistic development of athletes at grass-root levels, the importance lies in the very real value of sports science at the grass-root levels. How do we build future champions by integrating sports science into grassroots sports? It’s being discussed at The Sportz Planet – SportSci Summit Season 2 on November 21st, 2024, at the Radisson Blu – Atria, Bengaluru by industry experts. The discussion will cover all aspects through which sports science may take on the challenge of revolutionizing training, injury prevention, and performance enhancement from the grassroots level of athlete development. It will show how, at the right kind of intervention, with data-driven insights and scientific principles, a difference can be made in shaping the athletes of tomorrow. The Expert Panel – Building Future Champions: Integrating Sports Science Into Grassroots Level Sports The panel will be constituted of all kinds of sports professionals with high professional experience and knowledge about the topic of discussion. Dr. (Maj) Ameya Kagali is an International classifier for Wheelchair & Amputee Sport and was the Chief Team Physician for the Paris Paralympics 2024. Dr. Kagali’s field of specialization is the convergence of medical and sports science. His message will focus on how sports science, mostly in adaptive sports, can catalyze tapping into opportunities for and empowering the handicapped athlete right from the grassroot level. Antony Chacko is the Director at Center for Sports Science, Bangalore. Antony has worked in close association with various government and private institutions for the advancement of the application of sports science in India. Being an expert in the area of youth empowerment and sports, Antony would speak on the critical need for science-based principles forming training systems for young athletes and how that aligns with government initiatives. Saumil Majmudar is the co-founder, CEO & MD of Sportz Village, which is one of India’s grassroots sports development pioneers. Majmudar has rich experience in scaling sports programs all over India. He would talk about how Sportz Village has been working on mainstreaming sports science into schools and local academies and the role technology and data can play in identifying and nurturing young talent. Dr. Siddharth Sakalle is one of the most promising physiotherapists, with wide experience in high-performance sports, working with Olympic medalists to top athletes and many more. Dr. Sakalle will help understand the relevance of injury prevention and rehabilitation strategies, especially grassroot levels and how physiotherapy works for long-term athlete development. Vijay Krishnamurthy would be moderating the panel. Mr. Krishnamurthy is a sports researcher and executive coach with a PhD. He shall guide the panel through probing questions on how to make the science of sports more accessible, effective and increasingly integrated within the grass-root sports ecosystem. Issues To Be Discussed In The Panel There are many relevant issues to discuss with the panel to address about integration of sports science at the grassroots level. 1. Overcoming Barriers through Adaptive Sports Science2. Infrastructure and Ecosystem Building3. Data Driven Decision Making4. Injury Prevention and Physiotherapy5. Government and Private Sector Participation6. Mental Health and Psychological Support The Need for Sports Science at the GrassRoots Level The history of sports science portrays very little for India, with all its trends and tradition, mainly for elite athletes and their professional sports teams. The approach towards increasing this at grassroots levels by making them learn these values of good coaching may be seen as the turning point and resultant high-performing athletes. A scientific approach might just open new avenues in enhancing the regimen for training, nutrition, psychological readiness and recovery at the grassroots level where emphasis is primarily on physical and mental development among young athletes. With biomechanics fine-tuning techniques or nutrition strategies to fuel young bodies or perhaps, data analytics to follow progress, a sports science approach has the potential to revolutionarily transform the process of athlete development from the grassroots level. Future of Sports in India At the grassroots level, India would have to develop an integrated approach to make a sustainable and competitive sporting culture. India could help athletes reach their potential in a healthy, sustainable, and scientifically sound manner by embedding sports science into grassroots programs. It will be an important forum through which these themes will be explored and shared among people working on the ground to shape the future of sports. The knowledge shared during this panel discussion will help pave the way for a more scientifically informed, efficient and inclusive sporting ecosystem in India, ultimately fostering the champions of tomorrow. Such a panel, steeped in experience and passion to nurture sports science in India, will provide great insights in the development of grassroots sports towards a more scientifically sophisticated and competitive playing field leading India’s future sporting successes. The Sportz Planet Desk,Atharva Shetye
Benefits Backed By Sports Science Of Working Out In The Morning

While most of us understand that regular exercise is critical to keeping us healthy, the time of your workout makes all the difference. Sure, personal preference, lifestyle and body type will all factor into what time of day is “best” for you to get a good workout in-but as sports science amasses more and more evidence, it appears that working out in the morning may offer some benefits. Here are some reasons backed by sports science on why you might want to start your exercise routine early in the morning. 1. Less Distractibility One of the greatest advantages that people get when doing work-outs is the lack of distractions. Early risers experience quieter phones, the to-do list stays untouched until afternoon, and people call back less frequently. Without competing emails or phone calls to deflect their attention, most of the people exercising in the morning will stick to the plan and complete their session while promoting consistency in their workout schedule. This concept can be understood by sports science principles, where the most successful athletes, whether beginners or otherwise, train consistently. 2. Beat the Heat If one is a fan of taking exercises out in the field, then the best time is in the morning, considering the scorching rays of the summer sun. Normally, it is between 10am and 3 pm, meaning this is not the best time as it tends to get warm. Jogging, trekking, or biking requires cool fresh air during such an early morning, as it helps one be very comfortable and safe. Sports technology and sports biomechanics have proven that the regulation of temperature during exercise is a performance factor, and the workout time in the morning reduces the risk of heat stress. 3. Healthier Food Choices One such interesting study that was published in the International Journal of Obesity mentions how people who exercised regularly began improving their eating habits, even though they were not told that they needed to have some alteration in their eating habits. Doing morning exercise will serve as a stimulus to pave the way for better eating throughout the day by making lighter, healthier meals and snacks. Along with nutrition being essential for an athlete’s performance and recovery, research in sports science also focuses on this factor more. 4. Alertness Building It is easier to go for morning walks and align with one’s natural hormonal fluctuation. While you sleep, your body increases the release of cortisol which is a hormone that acts as a wake-up call in people. Its peak hour happens to be around 8 am, so the utilization and building of your day’s momentum could easily and positively be done by exercising at this time. It makes your body feel better prepared to keep fit. According to sports science, this is the best time for the athlete to improve performance as his body will most respond to the physical demands posed by such hormonal levels of fluctuation. 5. More Energy All Day Long You can expect to feel more energetic in the morning as a result of exercise. This works to improve the body’s cardiovascular system; boosts stamina; and enhances the body’s endurance. Exercise in the morning will also result in an apparently natural increase in energy that can continue to be raised all day long and even reduces fatigue, as well as general levels of ill organism activity. Science regarding sport in India and globally continues to provide evidence of the relationship between regular exercise and extended periods of energy levels maintained in athletes who take part in high-demand competitive activities. 6. Concentration As reported in the British Journal of Sports Medicine back in 2019, a 30-minute morning exercise enhances cognitive functions such as attention and visual learning as well as decision-making. For this experiment, the subjects who trained during the morning outperformed in tasks demanding attention and problem-solving, proving that a sweat session before noon can sharpen mental clarity for the rest of the day. Sports technology and sport science have shown cognitive functions to be an important aspect of the athlete’s overall performance. Morning exercise may also impact long-term mental acuity. 7. Mood Enhancement Exercise is a natural mood lifter, and morning exercise does not exempt a person from this. Physical activity triggers the brain to release endorphins-the chemicals which tell one’s body that he feels much better and relaxed. Invigorated exercise in the morning also allows for feelings of accomplishment, positive vibes for the rest of the day. Another mood-enhancing benefit, as cited in sports science, which has been an essential factor for athletes in determining performance and recovery. 8. Facilitates Weight Loss Those seeking to lose a bit of flab can feel they have that added edge from early workouts. A 2015 published study in EbioMedicine found that individuals who exercised on an empty stomach had the highest incidence of fat burn over the following 24 hours. Exercise, therefore, may be beneficial for weight loss when performed in the morning if combined with healthy eating habits. Biomechanics in sports reveals that exercise will increase the capacity of the body to burn fat if it occurs when all meals are digested into the system. 9. Better Control of the Appetite Exercising in the morning could also serve an additional purpose that is bettering appetite controls. Some research studies have shown that this exercise can also suppress the urge to eat later in the day and minimize eating over a few hours. A 2012 study, published in Medicine & Science in Sports & Exercise, showed that exercisers who exercised before breakfast were less activated by food stimuli in their brains compared to those that didn’t exercise. This would signify that exercising in the morning will also help regulate hunger and even aid in the selection of better food intakes. This principle reflects what science in sports has learned with regard to the regulation of appetite among athletes, where proper training and nutrition support optimal body weight. 10. Higher Activity Levels during the Day Exercise
Sever’s Disease: The Silent Threat to Young Footballers

Young footballers, eager to showcase their skills on the field, may unknowingly face a common yet often overlooked injury: Sever’s disease. This condition, primarily affecting athletes during growth spurts, can significantly impact their performance and enjoyment of the game. What is Sever’s Disease? Sever’s disease, also known as calcaneal apophysitis, is an overuse injury that affects the growth plate at the back of the heel bone. This growth plate is a soft, cartilaginous area where bone growth occurs. Repetitive stress, such as the constant pounding of the feet during running and jumping, can irritate this growth plate, leading to pain and inflammation. Recognizing the Signs If your young footballer is experiencing any of the following symptoms, they may be suffering from Sever’s Disease: How to Manage Sever’s Disease While Sever’s disease is a self-limiting condition, proper management is crucial to expedite healing and prevent complications. Here are some effective strategies: When To Seek Professional Help? If your child’s heel pain persists or worsens despite home care measures, it’s essential to consult with a sports medicine physician or orthopaedic surgeon. They can accurately diagnose the condition and recommend appropriate treatment, including more advanced therapies if needed. By following these guidelines and seeking timely medical attention, young footballers can effectively manage Sever’s disease and return to the pitch, ready to showcase their talent without pain. The Sportz Planet Exclusive,Dr. Amol Patil Consultant Sports PhysicianFormer Team Doctor (Indian Boxing Team) | Former Consultant MY&S (Mission Olympic Cell)
How Analytics And Wearable Technology Are Changing The Game

It has become apparent that the day is gone when sports depended solely on raw talent and much hard work. Instead, athletes and teams are increasingly looking towards sports science and data analytics to hone performances, prevent injuries and optimise recovery. It can easily be said that this world of technology opened the door to a new generation where wearable devices and real-time data play an instrumental role in an athlete’s training, competition and recovery. Role Of Data Analytics In Performance In Sports Sports performance today isn’t only about raw data but also about the story behind the numbers. Sports science has been ruled not just to deal with numbers, but rather about possibilities, weaknesses and capacities of the athletes. Sports analytics is that kind of data-driven strategy for the performance, avoiding injury altogether. This has then led to developing more opportunities about how athletes train by focusing more on the individualized data-driven basis of decisions. Let’s find out how data analytics changes the game and impacts many sports. Among the most radical changes that sports analytics brings is performance tracking. Using real-time assessment, the movements and speed, endurance and strength of athletes can now be monitored precisely. Coaches can access this information on the spot now. This allows them to act in terms of fine-tuning training programs while ensuring that their athletes stay on track and adjust accordingly for better improvement. Another major perk of data analytics is injury prevention. Through monitoring patterns of fatigue, stress in the muscles and joint pressure, sports science becomes the predictor of risks of injury before they happen. Therefore, the athletes will be able to make changes in their routines or rest as necessary, thus avoiding long-term setbacks. Lastly, tactical insights backed by sports analytics have become crucial in team sports. For instance, using player positioning, opponent weaknesses, or match data, coaches could work out the best strategies so as to maximise chances of success. Sports Wearable Technology: A Game-Changer For Athletes No less transformational advent than that of sports wearable technology. The wearable devices can collect data, in real time, about everything from heart rate to muscle tension and energy expenditure down to even mental concentration. All these insights enable the athlete to understand perfectly how the body is responding during physical exertion, allowing athletes to tailor their practice sessions according to the needs and performance goals. In India and other countries, where sports science is rapidly gaining pace, the applications of sports wearable technology are now coming onto the radar. From a cricket player to a football player and even to a basketball player, they now use wearables to track the health metrics, monitor training loads and optimise recovery. In this manner, with an upsurge in these devices, the physical performance and cutting-edge technology are now coming together to create an environment whereby the athlete can unlock his potential. As sports wearable technology becomes increasingly mainstream in India, it is only now coming into light that these technologies are gradually infiltrating into the Indian sports ecosystem, with advantages in performance in almost all sports. Applications In Sports Football clubs all over the world, especially across Europe, have made early moves to include the applications of sports analytics within their training formats. The top clubs such as Manchester City and FC Barcelona are employing sports wearable technology for tracking the times when a player gets exhausted during training. Such wearables monitor heart rates, gait patterns and muscle strain; consequently, using insights gathered, the trainers lowered the levels of training, reducing potential injury risk. Tapping into sports analytics has aided in training through the use of refined techniques, improving performance on the field and increasing the potential for winning. In India, where cricket is considered a national sport, sports science is assuming a greater role too. Wearable devices are used to track players’ heart rates, to monitor movement by the body and even assess mental concentration during matches. The data-driven insights help coaches in sports science in India devise recovery strategies so that players are fit for long innings. Through sports analytics Indian cricketers not only perform excellently but also extend their careers by avoiding injuries and fatigue. Similarly, in the world of basketball, sports wearable technology has significantly made impacts. Professional basketball teams are outfitting players with compression garments embedded with sensors that enable coaches to monitor muscle fatigue, cardiovascular data and player exertion in a real-time basis. These statistics enable replacement in the game, as well as the intensity at which one could exert through the game, keeping one performing to a proper level while reducing the chances of injury. All this was only possible due to data analytics development, as well as wearable technology. The Future of Sports Performance The future of sports is bright, as technology pushes every boundary so that athletes can set new standards for performance. Rapid advancement in sports wearables, sports analytics and all the data that comes with it will allow athletes to reach an unparalleled level of information about their physical and mental condition. This will help them fine-tune their performance while reducing injuries and minimising recovery time. It is thus obvious that sports science will move along a trajectory of more evolution and with even more individualised training programs and performance strategies. Most probably not too far from that point in time when overexertion injuries are a thing of the past, when that same technology will be able to predict and prevent it. The integration of data analytics, sports wearable technology and sports science will pave the way to a future where the athlete can perform at his best on the field with fewer risks and faster recoveries and a longer career. As the sporting world keeps its doors open to these innovations, we come into a world where technology will not only support the journey of the athlete but transform the very meaning of what it is to be the best. The Sportz Planet Desk,Atharva Shetye
Patellofemoral Pain Syndrome : A Footballer’s Foe

As a footballer, knee injuries are a common concern. One such injury that often plagues players is Patellofemoral Pain Syndrome (PFPS), often referred to as “jumper’s knee” or “runner’s knee.” What is Patellofemoral Pain Syndrome (PFPS)? PFPS is a condition where the kneecap (patella) tracks improperly in the groove at the front of the thighbone (femur). This leads to irritation and pain around the kneecap. How Does It Happen in Football? Common Symptoms of PFPS in Footballers Diagnosis and Treatment A sports medicine professional will diagnose PFPS through a physical examination and medical history. While imaging tests may be helpful, they often show normal results for PFPS. Treatment for PFPS typically involves a combination of strategies: Preventing PFPS To prevent PFPS, consider these tips: By understanding PFPS and taking proactive steps to manage and prevent it, you can minimize downtime and stay on the pitch. Remember, if you’re experiencing persistent knee pain, consult a sports medicine professional for a proper diagnosis and treatment plan. The Sportz Planet Exclusive,Dr. Amol Patil Consultant Sports PhysicianFormer Team Doctor (Indian Boxing Team) | Former Consultant MY&S (Mission Olympic Cell)
OTD: Maxwell Smoked Afghanistan With A Double Century At CWC23

It was 07th November, 2023. The Wankhede Stadium in Mumbai was bathed in sunshine as Australia took on Afghanistan in a must win CWC23 encounter. However darkness loomed over the Australian Cricket Team, until Glenn Maxwell arrived at the crease. Here’s What Had Happened Australia’s dream of reaching the semifinals of the ICC Men’s Cricket World Cup 2023 had begun to slip through their fingers in dramatic fashion as Afghanistan, riding on impressive victories against England and Pakistan, were living out their dream. Afghanistan’s Ibrahim Zadran played an anchor role by crafting a sublime 129* off 143 balls in the first innings of the game. Afghanistan was 291/5, a score that looked far too big for the Aussies coming into the match, considering how their top order has generally collapsed all tournament long. Second Innings Then came the Afghans’ bowling. Rashid Khan, Naveen-ul-Haq and Azmatullah Omarzai completely crippled the Australian batting line-up. By the 22nd over, Australia was faltering at 91/7 and the Australian Cricket Team looked dead in the water. No way back, this was one such collapse that made you feel. However as all of us witnessed, this game was going to take a turn no one could have predicted. Glenn Maxwell: The Lone Warrior Stood Tall In came Glenn Maxwell, Australia’s free-spirited all-rounder, with the dice turned over against him. Australia was seven wickets down and barely above 90 runs. Afghanistan could think of little reason they weren’t going to pull off a sensational win. Yet Maxwell was no ordinary batter. The moment was too big. The challenge was too great. And Maxwell – ever the maverick – relished it. Maxwell’s innings began nervously, with a few dropped catches and a couple of rusty shots, however something was brewing beneath the surface. Before it all boiled over, Maxwell took control, started hitting boundaries like it was bread buttered on the other side. Hang on, there was more to this story than a mere brutal counterattack-something more. Maxwell batted through the pain. Cramping severely, unable to move easily, he could only laboriously reach a quick single for whatever runs came his way. Still, his bat was swinging like a man on a mission. Maxwell’s Assault Maxwell started rather meekly on 22 off 26 balls. Once he got going, though, it was a storm in a teacup. In the next 102 balls, he would amass an astonishing 179 runs-hit 21 boundaries and 10 sixes, each strike a cry of defiance. Every stroke made it seem impossible suddenly possible. The scoreboard changed very quickly, so did the sense of disbelief in the stands. More than just a stellar score, Maxwell’s innings of 201 not out off just 128 balls sent a statement down the corridor of cricketing history. Maxwell became the first cricketer to hit a double-century while chasing in an ODI and the first Australian to do so in a World Cup. Impossible to chase was made suddenly possible and the Australian fans’ jaws dropped in disbelieving awe as they witnessed it. A Contest Of The Body By the 41st over, Maxwell’s runs were accumulating. He was visibly laboring, not really being able to move his legs without seizing. At one stage he collapsed on the floor in agony, his body playing him up at a time when he could least afford it. However, with such a determination in his eyes he would not leave the field. A brief field treatment enabled him to play on, however the spasms left him hardly able to change positions. Still, he pounded away—every boundary, every six a work of sheer will. What was remarkable, though, was how Maxwell scored 54 of his remaining 60 runs without shifting his feet—using sharp hand-eye coordination to dispatch the ball over the boundary. His power hitting turned out to be a demonstration of superhuman mental strength. Australia, which was all but finished and out of the match, was now thrusting ahead to victory, all due to Maxwell’s raw audacity and intestinal fortitude. Maxwell And Cummins Stand At Glory’s Gate With Maxwell, the Australian skipper, Pat Cummins, calm under pressure, hung on for life itself, playing a crucial, if understated, role in what will eventually emerge as the highest eighth-wicket partnership in ODI history. Cummins’ 12* off 68 balls look pretty inconsequential on paper, however his resilience helped get Maxwell across the line to hold up the Afghan bowlers long enough for the Big Show to finish what he started. Their 202-run stand was an improbable partnership, especially given the catastrophic start Australia had had. Together, Maxwell and Cummins orchestrated one of the most thrilling comebacks in World Cup history. With just five balls remaining, Maxwell cleared the rope one final time and took Australia home in a chase that seemed beyond impossible. Afghanistan’s Ultimate Near Miss Effort Indeed, it is very nearly a near miss and as exciting as it gets could be heart-breaking for Afghanistan. Their effort, although not as spectacular as Maxwell, stands applause of its own. The composed 129* from Zadran anchored the innings, while the bowlers did their best to spoil the Australian’s chase. Rashid Khan remained threatening throughout and Naveen-ul-Haq and Azmatullah Omarzai produced crucial breakthroughs, however they could just not stop Maxwell from winning this one for Australia. Maxwell’s Legacy For The Ages Maxwell’s double century will forever be written in cricket history as one of the greatest individual performances to be seen. Not only a knock of power and panache, but also of grit, determination and mental strength. Maxwell did not just win Australia the match, he changed the course of the tournament, producing a chase that will be spoken about for decades on end. In the aftermath of victory, when Maxwell lay exhausted on the pitch with minimal ability to move about, every single player in the Australian team gathered around him acknowledging the magnitude of his achievement. Maxwell, drenched in that sweaty Australian shirt, slowly walked up the stairs of the Wankhede dressing room. Australia, more
This Is How AI Revolutionizes Sports Science

AI-driven sports science has changed sports technology and how athletes train, recover and become optimally fit. The interaction of artificial intelligence with advanced wearable technology is changing the dynamics of sports biomechanics, nutrition and injury prevention and ushering in a new era in the training, recovery and performance maintenance of an athlete. AI-Powered Sports Technology For Enhanced Performance Analysis This gave way to sports science; AI has uncovered secrets in the fields of sports biomechanics that it would have otherwise taken man and centuries to know. Such data, compiled into sports technology involving movement analysis in terms of tactics and physiologic responses of an athlete informs a coach’s adjustment in the games for an instant gain over rivals. Tailor-made based on such data-driven analysis, they make personalised strategic optimization about performance and get it soaring. This is where wearable technology comes in handy. Equipped with the wearables, the athlete will have immediate feedback in regard to muscle activation, heart rate and movement pattern variables to fine-tune his or her training program as observed by the coach. AI in sports science facilitates detection of inefficiencies in technique; developing a targeted plan based on the analysis can eventually result in improvement in performance without necessarily exposing the athlete to an increased risk of injury. AI And Wearable Technology: Revolutionising Athlete Recovery Athlete recovery is a core part of sports science and AI-driven wearable technology ensures that athletes recover faster and safer than ever. The AI tracks the biomechanics and physical stress levels of an athlete to detect early signs of fatigue or strain and guide recovery protocols that are both efficient and personalised. Sports technology tracks data on muscle recovery, sleep patterns and physical exertion to make rest and recovery plans suitable for sports scientists and coaches. In sports biomechanics, wearables capture the minute movement and distribution of loads, which help prevent overuse injuries and improve recovery. AI further personalised sports nutrition for athletes, adapting dietary suggestions according to real-time physical data. This integration of AI-driven sports nutrition and wearable technology presents a comprehensive approach to recovery, so that athletes can maintain peak performance over time. Sports Biomechanics And Injury Prevention With AI In injury prevention, one of the most promising applications in sports science is its ability to identify an athlete’s unique physical risk factors by analysing sports biomechanics, which serves as a guide for interventions that have minimal risks of injury. The injury prediction models consider injury history, biomechanics and training intensity in an attempt to forecast the probability of getting injured. The proactive approach made in sports technology safeguards the health of an athlete, which can thus prolong careers and support the achievement of long-term goals. In sports science, wearable technology has an important role in the tracking of biomechanical patterns that indicate possible injuries. Real-time monitoring of movement and load distribution can empower coaches to change techniques and training intensities, thereby giving athletes more value. Predictive AI through sports biomechanics can become a significant tool in keeping an athlete in good health, hence making a proactive approach to health and recovery. Mental Health And Holistic Athlete Care The application of AI in the realm of mental health and holistic care in sports science is increasingly observed. Wearable technology goes beyond monitoring the athlete’s physical state and observes the psychological aspect as well, like stress levels, sleep quality and general mood. The sports technology that offers insight into an athlete’s mental state can be of immense use for coaches while developing training plans with proper prioritisation for physical and mental recovery. A new dimension for wearable technology would be offering feedback on physical and mental metrics-a holistic shift in sports science where the best of well-being in all aspects for an athlete can be achieved. Sports nutrition through AI will also help athletes manage mental health since optimally aligned diets have been shown to contribute positively to mood and energy. There have been increases in AI potential for sports science, where new discoveries have been recorded every year regarding sports technology and sports biomechanics. With advances in accessibility in AI-based wearable technology, all types of athletes are now in a position to access these. Given that AI in sports science is going to drive personalised training, recovery enhancement and proper nutrition, the new generation of athletes and their quest for success can be termed as being highly precise, personalised and proactive towards health. The Sportz Planet Desk,Atharva Shetye
IPL 2025 Mega Auction: Top Catches And Misses

India’s big names like Rishabh Pant, Shreyas Iyer, KL Rahul, Ravichandran Ashwin and Yuzvendra Chahal are among the cricketers to quote a base price of ₹2 crores when they go under the hammer at the Indian Premier League (IPL) 2025 Auction table. In total 1,574 players are set to go under the hammer at the IPL 2025 Mega Auction out of which 409 are overseas players. Shami and Siraj In IPL 2025 Mega Auction Mohammed Shami is also one of those who would be going under the hammer with the base price of ₹2 Crore as he was released by the Gujarat Titans. Same is the case with Mohammed Siraj, who was released by the Royal Challengers Bengaluru. Other top Indians entering the IPL 2025 Mega Auction are Ishan Kishan, Deepak Chahar and Bhuvneshwar Kumar, whose base price has been set at ₹2 crores. Umran Malik shall be there at the IPL 2025 Mega Auction at a base price of ₹75 lakhs. Overseas Stars Opt for ₹2 Crore Base Price At IPL 2025 Mega Auction International players like Australia’s Mitchell Starc, who was the record buy of KKR in IPL 2024, will enter the IPL 2025 Mega Auction at ₹2 crore. Other overseas stars in this category are Steven Smith, Jofra Archer and Jos Buttler, with David Warner who now is retired from international cricket joining them. Anderson Walks In England’s old guard, James Anderson has opted to participate in the IPL and has registered himself in the IPL 2025 Mega Action. The man who always prioritised his country and red ball cricket over franchise cricket has now shown interest as he finds time for his leisure post retirement. It would be really interesting to see in which franchise Anderson finds a place. The master of swing would surely be a treat to the eyes if he gets an opportunity in the IPL. Ben Stokes Out; Italian Player Joins IPL Auction Ben Stokes is the standout miss by England, though there’s James Anderson with a reserve price of ₹1.25 crore. Recent recruit by ILT20 in Italian bowler Thomas Draca features in this list as well. IPL 2025 Mega Auction To Take Place In Jeddah In November The Indian Premier League (IPL) 2025 Mega Auction is scheduled to be held on November 24th and 25th, 2024 in Jeddah, Saudi Arabia. A total of ₹120 crore in the purse lies before franchises, which will help fill their respective squads. The Punjab Kings would enter the IPL 2025 Mega Auction with the biggest purse, amounting ₹110.50 crore. The Sportz Planet Desk,Atharva Shetye
IOA Submits ‘Letter of Intent’ To Host 2036 Olympics

The Indian Olympic Association (IOA) has formally submitted a ‘Letter of Intent’ to the International Olympic Committee’s (IOC) Future Host Commission to host the 2036 Olympic and Paralympic Games. This is the start of a long journey, as the host is to be decided only after the elections for the IOC take place next year. Strong Competition In Race To Host 2036 Olympics India has faced a stiff competition as it bids to host the 2036 Olympics against other countries with Saudi Arabia, Qatar and Turkey reportedly putting themselves at good standings in this bid. More than ten countries, the IOC states, are showing interest in hosting the games in 2036, since it will be the first free slot. IOC Head Defends India’s 2036 Bid The present IOC President, Thomas Bach, has been a supporter of India’s bid to host the 2036 Olympics. The last major international multi-sport event that India hosted was the Commonwealth Games in New Delhi in 2010, further adding to the country’s credentials for hosting large-scale sporting events. Ahmedabad Likely To Host 2036 Olympics Ahmedabad is now considered the front runner to host the 2036 Olympics. India’s top sports officials, including IOA President PT Usha, have been lobbying for the country’s Olympic bid in a bid to make it more solid. The presence has been notable at the 2024 Paris Olympics. India’s Push For Yoga And Other Sports In Olympics The IOC is not just bidding for the 2036 Games but also pleading that yoga feature in the Olympic sports calendar. One of the six sports that the Sports Ministry’s Mission Olympics Cell has recommended for possible inclusion, yoga is one of India’s greatest cultural exports and soft-power tools. The five other sports under consideration are Twenty-20 (t20) cricket, kabaddi, chess, squash and kho kho. IOC rules govern the inducting of new games to the Olympics, as per which the Organising Committee of a particular edition of the Games is given a leeway to propose regional games which enjoy popularity in regions. The proposal for including yoga had come up in December last year when Prime Minister Narendra Modi officially declared the interest of India in hosting the 2036 Games. It has been the cell of the Mission Olympics, made up of former athletes, federation officials and sports administrators who have been taking forward these proposals. The Sportz Planet Desk,Atharva Shetye
The Science Of Yoga Asanas That Relieve Knee Pain

Knee pain is one common problem affecting millions of people, mainly athletes, from injuries, arthritis, muscle imbalances and poor posture, among other causes. Among sports science, knee pain often becomes a significant problem, particularly in rehab programs for athletes and their recovery. Whether it is bone injuries acquired during high-intensity exercise or overuse in general, knee pain can always be a major detractor of performance and everyday life for many. While most approach the problem with medications and surgeries, yoga is just one holistic and effective treatment for knee pain that induces long-term healing. This has to do with incorporating elements from sports science into its curriculum. It addresses the musculature surrounding the knee in order to enhance its strength, flexibility and restore its original alignment necessary for full recovery. A Holistic Approach for Knee Pain Relief in Athlete Rehab The holistic approach that yoga provides to treat knee pain relief is also found in sports science, making it invaluable for programs concerning athlete rehab and recovery. The practice strengthens not only the knee joint itself but also the surrounding muscles, tendons and ligaments that stabilize and support the knee. It helps prevent further injury and promotes proper body alignment, significantly reducing knee pain, by balancing the strength and flexibility of muscles. This is in close adherence to sports science principles where knowledge of the biomechanics of the body allows pinpointing areas that will require strengthening or stretching. For athletes with bone injuries or suffering from chronic knee pain, yoga helps offer a low impact efficient means of rehabilitation for long-term knee health and wellness. Yoga needs caution especially in managing knee-related conditions. Pay heed to your body and avoid overstressing. Never try doing yoga without consulting your health provider. Effective Yoga Positions in Knee Pain Reducing Exercises Suitable for Sports Science In the rehabilitation process of athletes, some of the postures of yoga have proven to be very useful for knee pain reduction because of the increase in the strength around the knee area while simultaneously improving flexibility with good posture maintenance. Tadasana is a basic standing asana that tones up the legs and also improves one’s posture, aligning the knees and ankles. This would ensure that strain on the knee joint will not occur as misalignment in the body could augment it. Utthita Trikonasana or Extended Triangle Pose helps in the strengthening of quadriceps and hamstrings muscles, which would be required for the stability of the knee joint. It also opens the chest, spine and hips, which can help release tension that would cause knee pain. Virabhadrasana I and II or Warrior Poses I and II are strengthening for the quadriceps, hips and lower body strength necessary to stabilize the knee during any high-impact activity. These postures improve balance, flexibility and stamina, three important elements in recovery of athlete rehab programs. These areas are therefore targeted in yoga to support the knee joint; thus, it is not only for injury prevention but also in recovery from bone injuries or chronic pain. Yoga in Sports Science and Recovery Yoga kills knee pain, but it must be done mindfully, particularly when recovering from bone injuries or other knee conditions. Recovery is not just resting; recovery means the restoration of the body’s alignment and strength. As far as an athlete’s rehab session is concerned, one needs to approach yogic activities gradually. You should start slowly with your practice, listen to what your body has to say and pay more attention to right alignment in order not to overstretch or overdo things. For athletes in the recovery process, a certified instructor who is well-versed in the principles of sports science can ensure that all the poses are done safely and effectively. Like any form of rehabilitation, yoga heals through the restoration of body awareness, balance, and alignment in order to fully recover. Yoga as a Long-Term Solution for Knee Health in Sports Science Hence, it is the natural way to heal to avoid knee pain and strengthen muscles around the knee-a significant factor in athlete rehab and recovery. Athletes may experience better knee health and relieve pain by practicing Tadasana, Utthita Trikonasana and Virabhadrasana. It is a sports science area and, in India and elsewhere in the world, yoga has been increasingly acknowledged. More and more, this seems to be evident when one considers knee rehabilitation and avoiding future injuries. For chronic knee pain or when bone injuries are involved, it presents a powerful science-backed tool for long-term knee health. As always, get clearance from a physician before beginning any type of new exercise routine, especially if there are specific concerns related to your knee pain and recovery. The Sportz Planet Desk,Atharva Shetye
