SoBo Mumbai Falcons Win The Runners-up Trophy
SoBo Mumbai Falcons fell just short in a thrilling T20 Mumbai League final at the Wankhede Stadium, finishing as runners-up despite a fiery late flourish with the bat. A resilient unbroken 85-run stand between Harsh Aghav and Mayuresh Tandel helped the Falcons post a competitive 157/4. However, the MSC Maratha Royals, led by composed knocks from Chinmay Sutar and Awais Khan, chased down the target with four balls to spare to clinch the title.
Fast & Up Mumbai Walkathon: 5000+ Participants Celebrate The Joy of Walking
The event kicked off with the 10KM Pro Walk at 6:00 am, witnessing the participation of 42% dedicated walkers, followed by 44% walkers in the 5KM Family Walk at 6:20 am and 14% participants in the 3KM Fun Walk at 6:40 am.
Steeping Into Fitness: 4000+ Join Mumbai Walkathon for a Healthier Future
Over 4000 participants have signed up for the highly-anticipated inaugural Mumbai Walkathon 2025 to be held in Mumbai on March 16, 2025. The event features three categories – 10km Pro Walk, 5km Family Walk and 3km Fun Walk.
Rohit Sharma’s Battle With Red-Ball Continues In Domestic Cricket
Rohit Sharma‘s much-awaited return to first-class cricket ended abruptly on a cool winter morning in Mumbai as the Indian Captain lasted just 19 balls in his Group A fixture for Mumbai against Jammu and Kashmir. Rohit Sharma’s Brief Stay At The Crease Rohit Sharma has been struggling with form in red-ball cricket, managing only three runs before being dismissed in an uncharacteristic manner. His brief stay at the crease was the focal point of attention in the lead-up to the match, especially after he confirmed his participation in the game during a Champions Trophy squad announcement last week. His presence was eagerly awaited, but Rohit’s return to Mumbai’s Ranji side could not deliver the hoped-for revival of form. Rohit Sharma And Jaiswal Open The Batting For Mumbai Mumbai skipper Ajinkya Rahane decided to bat first and he opened the innings sending the regular test cricket opener, Rohit Sharma, with whom he shares an opening stand for India. The duo of Jaiswal and Sharma had to push Ayush Mhatre out of the playing XI. Mhatre had been the find of the season, basking in glory with some sensational performances. Rohit Sharma Tested By Jammu & Kashmir Bowlers Though the air was fresh early in the morning as Mumbai began the day with a break from last week’s scorching heat, Jammu and Kashmir’s opening bowlers, particularly Umar Nazir Mir, capitalized on the early-morning nip. Rohit faced a probing spell, well bowled, especially by Mir, who bowled a tight line outside the off stump and varied his lengths, not allowing the India captain to settle. After seeing two maidens from Mir, Rohit was able to get a single off Auqib Nabi but otherwise was subdued by the tight bowling. Rohit Sharma Gets Dismissed After Brief Struggle The breakthrough came on his 17th ball, when Mir got one to move away and Rohit, looking to play his trademark pick-up shot, only managed to edge it to a well-placed Paras Dogra at mid-off. Rohit’s lean run in red-ball cricket continues, with his first-class average for the 2024-25 season now sitting at a dismal 10.43. His brief outing only adds to the growing concern over his form in the longer format of the game. Rohit Sharma Accompanied By Jaiswal With Lack Of Form The big hit in Rohit Shrama’s dismissal came after Nabi removed Jaiswal for 4, making Mumbai reel at 9 for 2 at a relatively early stage of the game. A game that started off promisingly for the top order of Mumbai had begun to slip away from the team, as two top-order openers were sent back to the pavilion without scoring too heavily. Rohit Sharma’s Lean Run In Red-Ball Cricket Continues For Rohit Sharma, it was another reminder of the challenge he faces in red-ball cricket. His inconsistency at the top order continues to be a talking point ahead of India’s international commitments. The Sportz Planet Desk,Atharva Shetye
Air Quality Concerns Cast Shadow On Tata Mumbai Marathon 2025
The Tata Mumbai Marathon is just around the corner, however, there are some serious concerns that we need to look at. Mumbai Marathon Exposed To High Pollution Levels As Mumbai gets ready for the Tata Mumbai Marathon (TMM) 2025 this Sunday, January 18, 2025, the air quality issues have been causing a lot of concern. A survey conducted by the Awaaz Foundation on Friday showed dangerously high pollution levels along the marathon route, with PM2.5 readings far exceeding the Central Pollution Control Board’s (CPCB) safe limit. Dangerous PM2.5 Readings Along Mumbai Marathon Route Mahim Reti Bunder in the vicinity of the half-marathon starting point recorded the maximum reading of 154 µg/m³ and the lowest value was 95 µg/m³ at Khan Abdul Gaffar Khan Road. Both figures are way past the safe value of 24 hours at 60 µg/m³, a cause for worry over the risks to the more than 60,000 people participating. Mumbai Marathon Faces Seasonal Haze and Pollution Air quality continues to deteriorate due to the seasonal haze being experienced as part of winter winds that have no sea breeze action to dislodge the entrapped pollutants across the region. According to weather analysts, low temperature, light wind, and relatively high humidity add to the health woes by ensuring the suspension of harmful aerosols in the atmosphere. Health Risks For Mumbai Marathon Participants Experts say that respiratory risks are also on the cards, particularly concerning those with pre-existing medical conditions like asthma. A pulmonologist at Lilavati Hospital and expert said part of the danger was that particulate matter would pose risks to lung health. Medical director for the marathon, Dr Santosh Kumar Dora, also echoed concerns, stating cardiac and physiotherapy teams were being stationed along the route to control medical emergencies. Adding to the health concerns, meteorologists predict a spike in temperatures this weekend, with maximums expected to reach 35°C. This combination of pollution and heat could pose further risks to runners and spectators. A Call For Action Ahead Of Mumbai Marathon 2025 Sumaira Abdulali of Awaaz Foundation appealed to the Procam International and Tata Group that organizes this marathon to immediately take steps forward. She insisted on the setting up of proper air quality monitoring, health advisory to participants before running, and real-time information on pollution in the run events. Mumbai Marathon 2025 Faces Environmental Challenges With air quality and heat in mind, this may be an off year for the Tata Mumbai Marathon 2025 as city challenges continue to haunt participants and organizers. The Sportz Planet Desk,Atharva Shetye
AUS v IND: Tanush Kotian’s Story From Mumbai To Melbourne
Mumbai’s off-spin-bowling all-rounder Tanush Kotian, received his biggest call-up for a place in the Indian Cricket Team for the fourth test of the ongoing Border-Gavaskar Trophy to be held in Melbourne. Kotian Still In His Early Days Aged just 26, Kotian’s call-up for the Border-Gavaskar Trophy 2024-25 brings him to a new pinnacle as part of his cricketing journey built after years of arduous work, dogged persistence, and relentless commitment to cricketing. His rise to the Indian Cricket Team is a sign of India’s domestic cricket systems in producing world-class talent. From Local Streets To Professional Cricket Tanush Kotian’s cricketing journey started on the streets of Vikhroli, a suburb in Mumbai, where he honed his skills in the highly competitive environment of the city’s local cricket scene. A versatile player in his early years, Kotian began as an opening batsman and even bowled pace before a growth spurt pushed him to specialize in off-spin. His father, a semi-professional cricketer who runs a coaching academy, played a vital role in fostering his love for the game. Kotian Breaking Through With Mumbai Tanush Kotian’s breakthrough came when he joined Mumbai’s senior team in the 2022-2023 season after being dropped early in his career. Despite the setback, Kotian’s determination saw him rise through the ranks, leading to consistent performances that garnered attention. His off-spin bowling, along with his rise as a batsman, made him a true all-rounder. With his ability to extract turn and bounce at a pace of 85-90kph, Tanush Kotian’s bowling has often drawn comparisons with R. Ashwin, India’s legendary off-spinner. Tanush Kotian Shines In The Domestic Circuit Tanush Kotian’s stint with Mumbai in the season 2023-24 was nothing but phenomenal. He played a pivotal role in Mumbai’s historic Ranji Trophy victory, winning the Player-of-the-Tournament award with 502 runs and 29 wickets. His all-round brilliance included a memorable first-class century against Baroda, where he scored 120 runs off 115 balls at No. 10, setting a record 232-run partnership with Tushar Deshpande. His performances in the semi-finals and finals further stamped his reputation, with contributions like his 89* against Tamil Nadu and 7 wickets in the final against Vidarbha. Tanush Kotian’s India A Call-Up These performances not only helped Mumbai win the Ranji Trophy for the 42nd time but also caught the eye of the national selectors. A few months later, Kotian was selected for the India A team, which toured Australia ahead of the Border-Gavaskar Trophy. His stellar performances in domestic cricket, coupled with his excellent temperament and technical abilities, made him a strong contender for a spot in the senior squad. Is Tanush Kotian Called-Up To Fill Ashwin’s Shoes? Tanush Kotian’s rise also coincided with the retirement of R. Ashwin from international cricket, as a move that opened a window of opportunity for such emerging spin bowlers like Kotian. Ashwin, whose impact on Indian spin bowling has been monumental, became a guide for Kotian when he joined Rajasthan Royals for the IPL 2024. Although Kotian didn’t feature much in the tournament, the learnings for the young cricketer must have been very rich indeed from people like Ashwin, Yuzvendra Chahal and Keshav Maharaj. It is well known that playing IPL helped him get more refined on how to play the spin bowlers in proper red-ball cricket. Rahane Backs Kotian Despite his success, Tanush Kotian remains focused on improving his skills. As Ajinkya Rahane, Mumbai’s captain, once told him, his next challenge is to continue evolving as a bowler who can take wickets even when conditions aren’t favorable for spin. This advice from Rahane reflects Kotian’s constant desire to push boundaries, a quality that will serve him well as he transitions to the international stage. Now all eyes would turn toward the promising newcomer as Tanush Kotian is scheduled to board for Melbourne to play with the Indian Cricket Team while hoping to behold the new chapter in India’s journey towards spin bowling legacy. The Sportz Planet Desk,Atharva Shetye
IHFF Creates India’s Passage To Global Bodybuilding Eminence
The International Health, Sports and Fitness Festival (IHFF) finally commenced on Friday, December 20, 2024 at the NESCO, Mumbai, marking a turning page for Indian bodybuilding and athletes. What IHFF Is All About? The IHFF commemorates the world of health and fitness but also affords direct access to all competitors to the hallowed grounds of Mr. Olympia USA, the most prestigious stage known to bodybuilding. IHFF’s Grand Dream For Indian Bodybuilding As the IHFF gets underway, it is all set to be a game-changer for the Indian bodybuilding scene. More than 4,000 athletes, including 150 international competitors, are expected to be part of the three-day event, which will attract more than 80,000 spectators. The event also boasts an impressive roster of over 200 exhibitors, making it the largest health expo in the world. This has set the IHFF to reach new heights, taking India’s position on the world bodybuilding platform to unprecedented levels. Events At IHFF The highlight of the festival is the bodybuilding competition, which is directly affiliated with the world-famous Mr. Olympia USA competition. This link opens doors for Indian athletes to enter the global bodybuilding circuit and gives them a platform to compete on the world stage. Also, the IHFF hosts two of the most eagerly awaited contests: the Steadfast Nutrition Pro Show, which has earned a reputation as Asia’s premier bodybuilding competition and the Amateur Olympia, recognized as India’s largest amateur bodybuilding contest. Both events are supported by the leading sports nutrition brand, Steadfast Nutrition, reinforcing the importance of quality nutrition in achieving athletic success. Steadfast Nutrition And IHFF Aman Puri, the founder of Steadfast Nutrition, emphasized the brand’s vision of propelling Indian athletes to success on the global stage. Puri aims to instill a culture of victory and elevate Indian bodybuilding standards to international levels. While cricket, football and hockey seem to rule over the Indian sporting debate, Puri and Steadfast Nutrition want bodybuilding to get the attention it is due. The company aims for India to be a global hub for sports by 2040 and the development of the IHFF forms part of that dream plan. How IHFF Is Shaping The Future Of Indian Bodybuilding? Since 2022, Steadfast Nutrition has been at the forefront of introducing Indian athletes to top-of-the-line bodybuilding competitions, such as Mr. Olympia USA. In this way, IHFF is playing a pivotal role in shaping the future of Indian bodybuilding, as this festival offers them invaluable exposure, resources and networking opportunities that will help the athletes excel on the world stage. The IHFF is more than a festival, but a milestone for Indian bodybuilding towards greater heights, inspiring young athletes to strive for excellence and break their own boundaries. As the festival progresses, it is very clear that the IHFF will continue to define the force of bodybuilding and fitness in India and around the world. Did you give a visit to IHFF 2024? The Sportz Planet Desk,Atharva Shetye
The Dhawal Kulkarni Story
For generations in Indian cricket, it was a given that the place for batting brilliance had always been in the bastions of Mumbai. However, at one point, it was a young, anonymous fast bowler from the city of dreams who broke all that was known and went about winning everyone’s hearts. Not that this young wonder was a just any pacer, rather he was Dhawal Kulkarni, the most inspiring story of dedication and hardwork that now, is told to all the young fast bowlers in Mumbai. Dhawal Kulkarni’s Early Yet Impressive Years In Domestic Cricket The journey started in the under-17 Vijay Hazare Trophy in 2005-06, when a tall and lean boy with a pace clocking mid-130’s emerged as a force to reckon with. While Mumbai was known for its batting masterclass, Dhawal Kulkarni brought a refreshing change by storming into the domestic circuit with his lethal pace. He was soon noticed by the selectors and had fantastic performances at the Under-19 state level, where he took 8 for 47 against Tamil Nadu, which got him into the India U-19 team for the 2007 tour to Sri Lanka. There, Kulkarni again stunned everyone and got himself a place in the Mumbai Ranji Team for the 2008 season, where his debut season was phenomenal. Dhawal Kulkarni ended the season as the Ranji Trophy’s highest wicket-taker, with 42 wickets, playing an important role in Mumbai’s title-winning campaign. Dhawal Kulkarni’s Maiden India Call-Up Dhawal’s career didn’t stop there. His exceptional rise led him to the national team, with a call-up for the India Test squad in 2009 for the tour of New Zealand. However, it was in the 2012-13 Ranji Trophy season that he made history for himself. Dhawal has led Mumbai to their 40th Ranji Trophy win by taking the match-winning five-wicket hauls both in the semifinal and final, out of which his spell is worth mentioning of 5/32 against Saurashtra in the finals. His performances were so consistent that he was soon called into the India A team for the 2014 Quadrangular series, where he played an important role in India’s title win. Dhawal Kulkarni Shines With Both Bat And Ball At The Rajasthan Royals Dhawal Kulkarni’s IPL journey started with the Mumbai Indians in IPL 2008, however he truly found himself as the lead bowler of a bowling attack the year he joined the Rajasthan Royals in IPL 2014. His line and length immaculate, Dhawal was one of the most dependable bowlers for the Royals, often coming up when it mattered the most – delivering crucial breakthroughs. Dhawal was bowling brilliantly. What came as a shock to everyone was his batting. He struck some serious blows out of the park in one of the games against the Chennai Super Kings in Dubai. With such high-scoring nature of IPL 2014, Dhawal’s bowling economy rate of 8.18 stood out as he showed how to control the game and stop the runs from flowing. Dhawal Kulkarni’s International Debut September 02, 2014 will always have some fond memories. Dhawal Kulkarni made his international debut in September 2014 when India toured England. In the home series that was held later the same year at home against Sri Lanka, Dhawal performed even better, taking eight wickets at an average of just 18.62. His career reached a new height when he represented India at the ICC Men’s Cricket World Cup 2015 in Australia. Dhawal Kulkarni At IPL 2015 Dhawal Kulkarni continued to dominate in the IPL. Playing for the Rajasthan Royals in 2015, he single-handedly dismantled the batting line-up of Sunrisers Hyderabad with figures of 2/9 in three overs, providing the critical breakthroughs when his team needed it most. Dhawal Kulkarni Blows RCB Top Order In IPL 2016 In IPL 2016, the Rajasthan Royals were suspended along with the Chennai Super Kings due to obvious reasons and Dhawal Kulkarni found himself donning the orange kit of the newly established Gujarat Lions. Speaking of Dhawal at the Gujarat Lions, how can we even forget him dismantling the ferocious Royal Challengers Bengaluru top order. Dhawal and his Gujarat Lions were up against the Royal Challengers Bengaluru in front of a daunting Chinnaswamy crowd in the playoffs of IPL 2016. The dangerous looking Virat Kohli and Chris Gayle were out to bat. We all know Virat was only upto smashing every bowler for a four or a six in IPL 2016. Dhawal Kulkarni was given the charge to handle the new ball. He marked his run-up in the second over of the innings and soon dismissed Virat Kohli for a duck. Dhawal soon came in for his second over and bamboozled the dangerous looking Chris Gayle this time for a score of 9 off 11. https://www.iplt20.com/video/5031 Dhawal was breathing fire. He went on dismissing KL Rahul for a duck the very next ball. It seemed that Dhawal was bowling rockets at the RCB batters and RCB were falling like a pack of cards in front of Dhawal Kulkarni. Dhawal’s fourth wicket came in the form of Sachin Baby. Through the innings Dhawal Kulkarni made sure that RCB was completely under pressure. Dhawal Kulkarni roared at Chinnaswamy as the lead bowler for the Gujarat Lions. Dhawal Kulkarni continued with the Gujarat Lions for IPL 2017 as well. Dhawal Kulkarni Shows Athleticism In IPL 2019 Dhawal was back with the Rajasthan Royals for IPL 2018-2019 season. Dhawal’s 2019 IPL season will always be remembered for his outstanding catch at long-off against the Sunrisers Hyderabad. SRH just needed 82 off 55 and were right in the hunt while chasing a target of 199. SRH’s Jonny Bairstow was set on 45 off 27 deliveries with the intention to go hard and cross the boundary rope as much as he can. However there was no escape. Dhawal Kulkarni was at the boundary and his fielding was as tight as that of a high security prison. Dhawal took a screamer just as the ball was going to cross the boundary ropes. Bairstow was
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
SportSci Summit 2024 Season 1: The Art & Science of Peak Sports Performance
Mumbai, India – The SportzPlanet is thrilled to announce the SportSci Summit 2024 Season 1, a landmark event in the world of sports science and performance. This premier event, dedicated to exploring the art and science behind peak sports performance, will take place on June 22, 2024, at the prestigious Radisson Blu, near Mumbai International Airport. Vision: The SportSci Summit 2024 aims to prepare the next generation of world-class sports leaders through a comprehensive understanding of athletes, high performance, and the management of sport. Attendees will gain invaluable insights from leading experts and practitioners, fostering a holistic view of sports science and its practical applications. Rishi Sutrave, Founder of The SportzPlanet, is excited to welcome sports enthusiasts nationwide for a day of knowledge, learning, and fun. “Following the success of the SportzPlanet Gamechanger Summit in New Delhi in 2023, my team and I are eager to host sports enthusiasts, researchers, doctors, and elite athletes under one roof. Our mission is to transform India into a diverse sporting nation, beyond just one sport. We believe that sharing the right knowledge through the right resources with the right people will help our nation excel in sports.” Event Highlights: Event Details: Registration Now Open:We invite all sports enthusiasts, professionals, and fans to join us for this unmissable event. Gain access to cutting-edge knowledge, network with industry leaders, and be part of shaping the future of sports performance. Please visit our official website for registration and more information. Don’t miss this opportunity to engage with the brightest minds in sports science and performance. Reserve your spot today and participate in the SportSci Summit 2024 Season 1! About SportSci Summit: The SportSci Summit is dedicated to advancing sports science through high-quality events that bring together experts, practitioners, and enthusiasts. Our mission is to foster a deeper understanding of the elements that contribute to peak sports performance and to cultivate the next generation of sports leaders.