Know About Samit Dravid, Rahul Dravid’s Son Who Is Selected For India U19
Samit Dravid has been called up for India U-19 series Against Australia. Samit’s Selection for U-19 Series Samit Dravid, son of legendary Indian cricketer Rahul Dravid, has been included in the Under-19 India cricket squad that is set to compete against Australia. The 18-year-old all-rounder will feature in both one-day and four-day formats, a huge boost to his fledgling career. Samit’s Strong Domestic Performances Currently representing Mysore Warriors in the KSCA Maharaja T20 Trophy, Samit Dravid has been amongst the runs and wickets. The right handed all-rounder played a crucial role in Karnataka’s maiden Cooch Behar Trophy title at the start of this year, scoring 362 runs and picking up 16 wickets in eight matches. Series Details The series is expected to have three 50-over games and two four-day matches when India ‘U-19’ will host against Australia ‘U-19’ at Puducherry and Chennai. While the one-day team will have Mohd Amaan as captain, Soham Patwardhan will lead in the four-day side. Samit Carrying Forward The Dravid Legacy By the end of his glittering career, Rahul Dravid had amassed 24,208 runs in international cricket-one of the legends in Indian cricket. Although he never won a World Cup as a player, under him as head coach, India managed to win the title of the ICC Men’s T20 World Cup 2024 and thus he left his full mark on Indian cricket. Now, it is time for Samit Dravid to create his own legacy as he heads into the international stage with the India U-19 team. The Sportz Planet Desk,Atharva Shetye
Bhambri/ Olivetti cause big upset to join Bopanna/ Ebden in third round
India’s Yuki Bhambri and French partner Albano Olivetti caused a big upset at the US Open on Friday, knocking out 15th seeds Austin Krajicek/ Jean-Julien Rojer in the second round of the men’s doubles event. Bhambri/ Olivetti fought back after dropping the first set 4-6 to win the second set 6-3 and force a decider. Krajicek/ Rojer also broke in the eighth game to lead 5-3 in the final set before Bhambri/ Olivetti fought back once again to win four games on the trot and complete the 4-6, 6-3, 7-5 win in just over two hours. The Indo-French duo will face off against either top seeds Marcel Granollers/ Horacio Zeballos or Alexander Erier/ Matwe Middelkoop in the last 16. This result equals Bhambri’s best performance in a Grand Slam doubles event. He also reached the third round of the Australian Open doubles event in 2014. Bopanna wins men’s doubles and mixed doubles matches at the US Open Meanwhile, second seeds Rohan Bopanna and Matt Ebden also advanced to the third round on Friday with a 6-2, 6-4 win over Roberto Carballes Baena/ Federico Coria. The Indo-Australian duo reached the final last year and won the Australian Open in January this year. They will next face 16th seeds Andres Molteni/ Maximo Gonzalez for a spot in the quarter-finals. It was a good day for Bopanna in New York as he also won his first-round mixed doubles match with Indonesian partner Aldila Sutjiadi. The eighth seeds defeated Tim Putz/ Demi Schuurs 7-6, 7-6 to advance to the last 16 where they will face John Peers/ Katerina Sinaikova on Saturday. There was some disappointment for Indian fans with the Indo-Argentine duo Sriram Balaji/ Guido Andreozzi falling in the second round. Balaji/ Andreozzi were defeated 6-7, 4-6 by eighth seeds Neal Skupski/ Michael Venus. In the boys singles qualifying draw, India’s Rethin Pranav Senthil Kumar fell in the final round to American wildcard Keaton Hance 5-7, 2-6. The Sportz Planet Desk,Haresh Ramchandani
Paris Paralympics 2024: Preethi Pal Wins Bronze in Women’s 100m T35
Preethi Pal won a bronze medal in the women’s 100m T35 on Thursday and India has yet another reason to look out for in the ongoing Paris Paralympics 2024. The victory gave India its first-ever medal in a track event at the Para Games and further fastened the nation’s emerging position in the para-athletics world. Preethi Pal’s Dazzling Debut Competing in her maiden Paralympics, the 23-year-old sprinter managed a season’s best timing of 14.21 seconds to finish second behind China’s Xia Zhou, who took gold, and Qianqian Guo, who managed silver. The brilliant performance brought Preethi Pal a place on the podium and underlined the emergence of the young para-athlete. Preethi Pal had earlier this year demonstrated her excellence by winning a bronze medal in the women’s 200m T35 at World Para Athletics Championships this May 2024. The recent one at Paralympics keeps adding into the list of her accolades to keep inspiring many aspiring athletes back home. India’s Third Medal at the 2024 Para Games This is India’s third bronze medal at the 2024 Para Games. Earlier on Tuesday morning, Avani Lekhara added to her already impressive kitty of medals when she won gold in the women’s 10m air rifle standing SH1 final, while Mona Agarwal won bronze in the same event. These three put together are making India’s presence felt at the Paralympics. India Celebrates Preethi Pal’s Triumph India shares pride and admiration as Preethi Pal celebrates her victory. It is not only a personal triumph for this young athlete but also a milestone denoting the emergence of India’s para-athletes as stronger and in better spirits on the world platform. The Sportz Planet Desk,Atharva Shetye
Paris Paralympics 2024: Avani Lekhara Wins Gold to Create History
It was a historic day for Indian sports when Avani Lekhara won the gold medal at the Paris Paralympics 2024 in the women’s 10m air rifle standing SH1 event. The victory marked Avani Lekhara’s second consecutive gold at the Paralympics and third medal in Paralympics, sealing her position as one of India’s greatest Paralympians. Shatters Her Own RecordLekhara shattered her own Paralympic record for a new high with a final score of 249.7, against the 249.6 score she had set at the Tokyo Paralympics. This journey at the top was never without its fierce competition. A Dramatic Final ShowdownThe final was full of drama, as Lekhara first faced a strong challenge from Yunri Lee of Korea. A shot of 9.9 saw Lekhara slip to the second position, enabling Lee to try and take the top spot. However, a composed 10.5 in her final shot in the gold contest kept Lekhara in the gold medal race. In a surprising twist, Lee cracked under pressure with a disappointing 6.8, which saw Lekhara pip her for gold by a thin margin. Mona Agarwal Adds to India’s Medal TallyIndia’s win in the event was further sweetened by Mona Agarwal’s win of a bronze medal. Agarwal managed a decent performance, ultimately finishing with a score of 228.7. Her effort meant that though she just missed setting up an all-Indian shootout for gold, the contribution to India’s early success in the Paralympics was her doing. A Promising Start for India at the ParalympicsThe historic gold by Avani Lekhara and a bronze by Mona Agarwal opened India’s account in the medals tally at the Paris Paralympics 2024. The Sportz Planet Desk,Atharva Shetye
The Importance of a Nutritional Breakfast to an Athlete
A good breakfast is the key preparation for any athlete in the quest for optimal performance and recovery. In 2024, studies underpin the necessity of a nutritional breakfast, as statistics from that year provide evidence of its influence on achieving athletic success. Studies show that 75% of athletes with a well-balanced breakfast exhibit better endurance and strength (Journal of Sports Medicine, 2024). Breakfasts containing complex carbohydrates and proteins build stores of glycogen that are essential for energy. Athletes who have whole grains and lean proteins for breakfast can show muscle recovery rates 20% higher than others. (Nutrition Research Reviews, 2024). Improved Muscle Synthesis Besides, a protein-rich breakfast boosts muscle synthesis. It was reported that 20-30 grams of protein intake by athletes in the morning leads to a 25% increase in muscle protein synthesis compared to skipping breakfast. This becomes critically needed for muscles to repair and grow. Improved Cognitive Function Breakfast also demonstrates an impact on cognitive function. In fact, athletes who had a healthy breakfast perform 15% better in reaction time tests, significant parameters in respect to sport activity. A healthy breakfast performs the function of keeping blood sugar levels stable. As a result, it can reduce tiredness and improve concentration. It has been reported that professional athletes with normal blood sugar levels have faced only 30% of the collapse in performance during extreme training. Schematically speaking, a nutritious breakfast is indispensable to any athlete, as it influences energy levels, recovery of muscles, cognitive function, and overall performance. Such figures are colossal and resolutely supportive of the fact that a well-balanced breakfast should feature in daily routines for any athlete desiring peak performance. The Sportz Planet Desk,Atharva Shetye
How An Ordinary Mumbai Boy Became A Household Name In Cricket
A young boy from Mumbai dreaming of playing cricket at the highest level spending countless hours on the bustling maidans of the city. That boy is Rohit Sharma and today he’s not just a cricketer but a legend in the making. From The Grassroots Rohit’s journey began in the narrow lanes of Borivali, where he first picked up a bat. As a child he was mesmerized by the game and with every swing, he inched closer to his dream. His raw talent was soon spotted by the Dronacharya Awardee, Mr. Dinesh Lad, who converted Rohit from a raw material to a finished product. Listen From Rohit’s Dronacharya Rohit quickly rose through the ranks, making his debut for Indian Cricket Team in 2007. However it wasn’t an easy ride. Early in his career, consistency eluded him and there were whispers about his potential being unfulfilled. Rohit earned his initial IPL contract at the Deccan Chargers in the inaugural season of the league and then shifted to the Mumbai Indians in IPL 2011 season. Since then Rohit has been the face of Mumbai Indians with his spectacular performances. Shifting To The Top Gear Everything changed in 2013 when Rohit was asked to open the innings in ODIs. It was as if a switch flipped. The world witnessed a different Rohit Sharma—one who could single-handedly change the course of a game. His elegant yet powerful stroke play earned him the nickname “Hitman” and a label that stuck after he smashed multiple double centuries, a record that stands unmatched. Rohit’s Family: A First Priority Beyond the cricket field, Rohit’s life is just as remarkable. He married Ritika Sajdeh in 2015, his close confidante and manager. Their bond is often highlighted in the media, especially their adorable daughter, Samaira, who was born in 2018. Rohit Sharma’s journey from the dusty maidans of Mumbai is a story of perseverance, raw talent and an unyielding love for the game. His rise to becoming one of the most feared openers in cricket didn’t happen overnight—it was the result of years of dedication and an unwavering belief in his abilities. Whether he’s smashing centuries at Wankhede or leading India to victory, Rohit embodies the spirit of a true sportsman. His story isn’t just about records and titles, it’s about inspiring millions to chase their dreams no matter where they start. The Sportz Planet Desk,Nitya Sutrave
Premier League 2024-25: Amul Ties Up With Star Sports For Broadcast
In a brilliant partnership, India’s largest dairy cooperative Amul has entered into a deal with Star Sports to broadcast, for the first time in India, the Premier League 2024-25 season. Under this new arrangement, Amul will be the title sponsor for Star Sports’ live coverage of the English top-flight football league, turning out to be an energizing platform to hook up with football followers across the country. Amul Expands Into Sports From its well-known range of dairy products like butter, milk, and ice cream to its popular “Amul Girl” mascot, it has turned into a continuing part of the India cultural landscape. With this new partnership, the company will be looking to strengthen its association with sports, with the Premier League maintaining high popularity in India. Its branding will be shown across all live broadcasts, which are good exposure during key matches. Amul’s Previous Associations In Sports Over the years, Amul has made its name and presence felt in Cricket. Amul has been the lead sponsor for South Africa, Afghanistan, USA and Netherlands. What’s In Store For The Premier League This Weekend? The heat will rise further in the Premier League during the 2024-25 seasons, with exciting clashes. On the third matchday, Liverpool will go head-to-head with Manchester United in a high-stakes clash, while Manchester City will face West Ham. The fixtures will also include Arsenal vs. Brighton, Chelsea vs. Crystal Palace, and many more equally interesting encounters. This association of Amul and Star Sports is going to raise the bar for the Premier League experience for millions of viewers in India. The Sportz Planet Desk,Atharva Shetye
Bopanna, Bhambri and Balaji advance to US Open second round
It was a good start for the Indian men in the US Open doubles competition with Rohan Bopanna, Yuki Bhambri and Sriram Balaji all winning their first-round matches with their respective partners. Bopanna and Australia’s Matt Ebden, the second seeds who reached the final here in New York 12 months ago, defeated Robin Haase/ Sander Arends 6-3, 7-5 on Thursday. This was the first win for the Indo-Aussie duo on the U.S. hardcourt swing after early losses in Montreal and Cincinnati. Bopanna/ Ebden advance to face Roberto Carballes Baena/ Federico Coria for a place in the third round. Bhambri, Balaji score maiden US Open doubles winsOn Wednesday, Bhambri and French partner Albano Olivetti reached the second round with a convincing 6-3, 6-4 win over American wildcard duo Ryan Seggerman/ Patrik Trhac. This was Bhambri’s first US Open main draw doubles win. The Indo-French duo will next face 15th seed Austin Krajicek/ Jean-Julien Rojer, both of whom are former Grand Slam doubles champions. Sriram Balaji, partnering Argentina’s Guido Andreozzi, had the toughest time of the three Indians in making it to the second round. The Indo-Argentine duo lost the first set of their match against Marcus Daniell/ Miguel Angel Reyes-Varela before coming through in a third set tiebreak 5-7, 6-1, 7-5 (12-10). This was also Balaji’s first main draw doubles win at the US Open. Up next for Balaji/ Andreozzi are the eighth seeds Neal Skupski/ Michael Venus, both also former Grand Slam doubles champions. Meanwhile, in the first round of the boys singles qualifying event, India’s Rethin Pranav Senthil Kumar advanced to the second round when fourth seed Niels McDonald retired while trailing 3-0 in the first set. Senthil Kumar, playing his first-ever junior Grand Slam, will next face American wildcard Keaton Hance with the winner advancing to the main draw. India’s top-ranked men’s player Sumit Nagal bowed out of the US Open singles event after a straight-sets loss to world No 40 Tallon Griekspoor, of the Netherlands. Griekspoor started off the match on a strong note, winning the first two sets 6-1 and 6-3 before Nagal was able to put up a tougher challenge in the third set. The Indian got the first break of the third set in the 11th game to lead 6-5 and served for the set. However, the Dutchman broke back right away to take the set into a tiebreaker. Nagal led 6-4 and earned himself two set points. However, a forehand error from the Indian and a service winner from Griekspoor levelled the tiebreak at 6-6. The Dutchman then went the next two points to close out the win 6-1, 6-3, 7-6 (10-8) in two hours and 10 minutes on Court 15 at Flushing Meadows. Insert sub-heading: Nagal’s doubles partner Nishioka forced to retire from first round singles clashGriekspoor will go on to play 21st seed Sebastian Baez in the second round while Nagal will focus his efforts on the men’s doubles event where he is partnering with Yoshihito Nishioka. However, Nishioka was forced to retire during the fifth set of his first-round match and it remains to be seen if he will be fit to take the court for the first round doubles encounter, likely to take place on Wednesday or Thursday. This was Nagal’s third appearance in the US Open main draw (now 1-3 record here) and marked the first time that the 27-year-old Indian has competed in the main draw of all the four Grand Slams in the same season. The Sportz Planet Desk,Haresh Ramchandani
West Indies’ Shannon Gabriel Calls Time on International Cricket After 12-Year Career
Shannon Gabriel, the imposing West Indies fast bowler, has confirmed his retirement from international cricket after a glittering 12-year career. The 36-year-old, who made his debut in 2012, had featured in 59 Test matches, 25 ODIs, and two T20Is, snaring 202 wickets in the process. Gabriel Reflects on His Career An emotional Gabriel took to Instagram on Wednesday to say: “During the past 12 years, I have dedicated myself to playing international cricket for the West Indies. Playing this beloved game at the highest level has brought me immense joy, but as the saying goes, all good things must come to an end. Today, I am announcing my retirement from International cricket.” Imposing Presence in Test Match Cricket known for his imposing height and raw strength, Gabriel went about making his mark on Test cricket. His best performance came in June 2018 when he picked up 13 wickets for 121 runs against Sri Lanka-ranking as the fourth-best match figures for a West Indian fast bowler. Comparisons with West Indies legends Patrick Patterson and Ian Bishop were warranted with his performances. Career Highlights and Challenges By 2017, though Gabriel had consolidated his position, there were no easy miles that came his way. He had his share of highs and lows-from being in the thick of action in that famous West Indies win over England at Headingley to the notorious dismissal in a Test match against Pakistan. The paceman received a four-match ODI ban in 2019 for using a homophobic remark against England captain Joe Root, which he later admitted was blown out of proportion. Final appearances and domestic cricket Gabriel last played for West Indies in July 2023, though has continued to remain involved in domestic cricket, turning out for Trinidad and Tobago, and once more in the Abu Dhabi T10 league in 2022. The Sportz Planet Desk,Atharva Shetye
Sachin Tendulkar Thrilled by Achrekar Sir’s Statue at Shivaji Park
In a fitting tribute to the legendary figure in Indian cricket, the Maharashtra Government has declared a statue of Ramakant Achrekar at Shivaji Park, Mumbai. This news comes as a follow-up when Achrekar breathed his last in January 2019 at 87 years of age. Widely acclaimed as the childhood coach of the cricketing genius Sachin Tendulkar, Achrekar’s contribution to the sport was huge, with immense development of young talents under his tutelage. Tribute from the Heart of Sachin Tendulkar Sachin Tendulkar, whose career was mentored by Achrekar, took to social media to announce the news with gratitude and highlighted the importance of the tribute. A post from Tendulkar read, “Achrekar Sir has had an immense impact on my life and several other lives. I am speaking on behalf of all his students. His life revolved around cricket in Shivaji Park. He would have loved to be at Shivaji Park forever. I am glad the government is erecting a statue for Achrekar Sir at his karmabhoomi.” A Legacy of Excellence The Shivaji Park, often referred to as the cradle for cricketing talent in Mumbai, is where Achrekar has spent much of his life in coaching budding cricketers. His coaching school, Kamat Memorial, played a big role in molding the cricketing careers of Vinod Kambli, Pravin Amre, Ajit Agarkar and Ramesh Powar among a few prominent cricketers. Honors and Recognition Apart from the statue, Achrekar was awarded the Dronacharya Award in 2010 for his skills as an outstanding coach. In 2010, he was conferred with the Padma Shri, which happens to be the fourth highest award given to civilians in India, for his related services in the field of sports. The statue in Shivaji Park will always remain a memorandum of Achrekar’s commitment and eternal service to Indian cricket. The Sportz Planet Desk,Atharva Shetye