How Sports Science Is Shaping the Future of Top Sports in India

Sports science is transforming Indian cricket and football with data, analytics and technology for long-term growth.

Tapping into the national passion for both sports, progress in sports science is unlocking new insights that set a new course for athletes and their trainers. This new discipline is changing the face of sports like cricket and football across Indian pitches.  Revolutionizing Cricket Through Data and Analytics Traditionally, cricket was ruled by instinct and experience; it’s becoming the game of data-driven people now. Advanced analytics is used by teams such as the Indian Cricket Team and IPL franchises for breaking down every single aspect of the game. Biomechanical analysis helps tinker with the actions of bowlers and perfect batting styles. For example, player load monitoring systems record physical strain, allowing to prevent injuries and maintain peak performance throughout the year. This technology helps tailor training regimens and recovery programs, thus optimizing both individual and team performance. Transforming Football with Advanced Technology It is sports science that is doing the same for football in India. Teams in the Indian Super League and national teams are rapidly transitioning to GPS tracking and performance analytics. These advanced facilities track players’ movements, workload, and tactical positioning down to the last inch. Coaches use this information to fine-tune strategies and game plans for superior fitness among players. Sports scientists are also developing nutrition and recovery strategies specific to footballers’ demands in an effort to increase the quality of the play and prolong athletes’ careers. The Future of Indian Sports Such effects of sports science are not restricted to mere immediate performance benefits; on the contrary, they set the base for long-term growth of Indian sports through an innovative culture and evidence-based practice. Further investment will see even greater development in cricket and football, offering a more competitive and exciting future to avid sports enthusiasts right across the country. The Sportz Planet Desk,Atharva Shetye

Shame on You Qatar, This is Blatant Cheating

Controversial refereeing decision in India vs Qatar FIFA 2026 Qualifiers sparks outrage, trending accusations of cheating.

The word ‘cheating’ has been trending on X for the past 12 hours or so. It is not often, Indian football makes news for something controversial. On Tuesday, Qatar, ranked 31st in FIFA ranking, had to cheat to topple an inspiring India, who emerged victorious, even though the final scoreline read 1-0.Qatar’s equaliser against India in the FIFA World Cup 2026 Qualifiers has been in the limelight for all the wrong reasons.  Controversial Decision in India vs Qatar Match Leaves Fans OutragedFootball fans are furious after a controversial decision allowed Qatar’s equaliser against India in the FIFA World Cup 2026 Qualifiers. The incident happened during the second half of the match at the Jassim Bin Hamad Stadium in Doha. The ControversyIn the 73rd minute, Abdullah Alahrak took a free-kick that led to Yousef Aymen attempting a header, which was saved by India’s goalkeeper, Gurpreet Singh Sandhu. As Sandhu lay on the ground, thinking the ball had gone out of play, Hashmi Hussein kicked it back into play, allowing Aymen to score. Despite protests from the Indian team, the referee allowed the goal, causing widespread outrage. A video of the incident is going viral on social media, with many fans expressing their anger. The controversial goal has sparked a debate about the quality of refereeing in important international matches. Qatar’s Victory and India’s DisappointmentQatar won the match 2-1, ending India’s hopes of reaching the third round of the FIFA World Cup 2026 Qualifiers. With this loss, India also missed out on automatic qualification for the AFC Asian Cup 2027. India initially took the lead with a goal from Lallianzuala Chhangte in the 37th minute. However, the controversial decision to allow Aymen’s goal disrupted India’s momentum. Qatar then scored their second goal through Ahmed Al-Rawi in the 85th minute. Many Indian fans took to Twitter to express their outrage, sharing videos and analyses that they claimed clearly showed the goal should not have counted. Fans called it an open robbery for what Qatar did. Poor referee decisions can unfairly affect the outcome of a match and ruin the spirit of fair play. In this particular game, Qatar’s behaviour was not in line with the true spirit of the sport. Their unsportsmanlike moves, which disappointed many fans who value fairness and sportsmanship in football. The game between India and Qatar in the FIFA World Cup 2026 Qualifiers should be considered as a warning that the governing bodies need to address these issues to maintain the integrity of the game. The Sportz Planet Desk,Atharva Shetye

Sunil Chhetri Retirement: India’s Star Forward 94 Goals Breakdown

Explore Sunil Chhetri's prolific international goal-scoring record against diverse opponents in a reflective tribute to his legacy.

The spotlight will shine brightly on India’s upcoming World Cup qualifier match against Kuwait on June 6, 2024. The anticipation is palpable as this game marks the swansong of Sunil Chhetri, the esteemed captain of the Indian men’s football team.  Chhetri, a stalwart in Indian football, last month announced his retirement from international football. The announcement added an emotional layer to this significant fixture. Having made his debut against Pakistan in 2005, Chhetri has left an indelible mark on Indian football, having graced the field in 150 matches for the Blue Tigers.  His illustrious career boasts an impressive record of 94 goals, a feat unparalleled by any other Indian player. As we reflect on his remarkable journey, it’s fitting to delve into the intricacies of his goal-scoring prowess against various opponents at the international level. ONE GOALAgainst Sri Lanka, Hong Kong, Kuwait, Bahrain, Macau, North Korea, Palestine, Philippines, Cameroon, Curacao, New Zealand, Puerto Rico, South Korea, and Vanuatu, Chhetri has netted a solitary goal against each. While Chhetri has found the back of the net against many nations, there are 16 countries where he has yet to register a goal, underscoring the challenges and dynamics of international football. TWO GOALSFurther illuminating his goal-scoring ability, Chhetri has notched two goals against some quality opponents such as Syria, Oman, and Thailand. His ability to find the net against such opponents speaks volumes about his tenacity and skill as a striker. THREE GOALSChhetri’s scoring record reveals three goals apiece against Myanmar, Malaysia, Guam, Bhutan, and Vietnam.  FOUR GOALSIn encounters against Pakistan, Kyrgyzstan, and Kenya, Chhetri has been particularly lethal, netting four goals against each. Notably, his debut international goal against Pakistan set the stage for a stellar career filled with numerous memorable moments. FIVE GOALSAgainst Afghanistan, Tajikistan, and Cambodia, Chhetri has showcased his goal-scoring ability with five goals against each opponent, further solidifying his status as a prolific striker. SIX GOALSChhetri has scored six goals against Bangladesh and Chinese Taipei, with Chhetri displaying both quantity and consistency across multiple appearances. EIGHT GOALSThe Maldives stands out as another formidable opponent against whom Chhetri has scored eight goals in six appearances. His inaugural goals against the Maldives in 2011 marked the beginning of a prolific scoring record against this opponent. NINE GOALSFinally, Nepal emerges as Chhetri’s most prolific adversary, with nine goals scored in 13 appearances. This remarkable statistic highlights Chhetri’s contributions against formidable opponents. As we bid farewell to this legend of Indian football, Sunil Chhetri’s goal-scoring exploits against various nations will be a force to be reckoned with for the athletes rising to the occasion in the future.  Also Read: The Sportz Planet Desk,Atharva Shetye