Sports

India clinched the ICC Men's T20 World Cup after a 17-year wait, defeating South Africa in a thrilling final. The victory marks a turning point in Indian cricket, signaling the end of the Rohit-Kohli era and bringing redemption for players and coaches alike. Emotions ran high as the team celebrated their long-awaited triumph.

Haryana's Shafali Verma, at just 20 years old, has set a new benchmark in women's Test cricket by scoring the fastest double century. Her explosive innings of 205 off 197 balls against South Africa not only broke records but also ended her personal drought of international centuries across formats.

India's Olympic bronze medalist wrestler Bajrang Punia has been suspended again by the National Anti-Doping Agency (NADA) for allegedly refusing to provide a urine sample. This comes just weeks after his previous suspension was revoked. Punia claims he didn't refuse but questioned NADA about expired testing kits used earlier.

10-year-old Indian squash prodigy Aradhana Singh defeats top competitor Sashana Istritharan of Malaysia to win the prestigious 2024 Australian Junior Open in Melbourne. Aradhana's impressive performance and straight-set victory showcase her exceptional skills, tactical prowess, and bright future in the sport.

Rohtak's wrestling sensation Ritu receives best wishes from PM Modi ahead of her Olympic debut in Paris. The first Indian woman wrestler to win gold at the Under-23 World Championship, Ritu's journey from her village to global recognition epitomises dedication and talent, inspiring athletes nationwide as she prepares for Olympic glory.

Haryana's world champion boxer, Sweety Boora, surprises fans with a viral 47-second video showcasing her dance moves during a gym practice session. The video, set to a Haryanvi song, provides a glimpse into Sweety's vibrant personality beyond boxing, earning praise and admiration on social media from fans and fellow athletes, including her husband.

Indian wrestlers Bajrang Punia and Vinesh Phogat expose alleged interference from suspended officials Brig Bhushan Sharan Singh and Sanjay Singh, hindering athletes from participating in the Senior National Championship. The wrestlers, having returned their awards, call for transparency and fair play to safeguard the integrity of wrestling in India.

Haryana Tennis Ball Cricket Association organised the 11th State-level competition in Rohtak. Rohtak's boys' team triumphed over Gurugram, while Sonipat's girls' team secured victory. The event was attended by notable figures, honouring the winning teams for their achievements in tennis ball cricket.

The Delhi court hears the controversy over exclusive "breath check" procedures by the Wrestling Federation of India, allegedly leading to harassment of female wrestlers. The wrestlers presented compelling arguments, emphasizing the misuse of the checks by former WFI President Brij Bhushan. The court scheduled the next hearing for February 2.

The Haryana government announces recruitment for the Army Boys Sports Company in Bengaluru, targeting young athletes aged 8 to 14 in boxing, hockey, rowing, and swimming. Specific height and weight criteria apply. Successful candidates will receive free education, accommodation, and meals, with a chance to join the Indian Army as Agniveer.

American athlete Katie Mun lauds Indian Olympic medalist Neeraj Chopra for his impact on athletics, acknowledging him during her visit to Mumbai. Both athletes, excelling in their respective fields, share a commitment to inspire and succeed. Neeraj Chopra, gearing up for the Paris Olympics, aims to continue making India proud with his javelin prowess.

Renowned wrestler Gunga Pahalwan, from Jhajjar, urges PM Narendra Modi to create a secure environment for India's daughters, emphasizing the honour award recipients bring to their families. He previously encouraged Sakshi Malik to retire on a high note and vowed to return his Padma Shri award in support.

The NGO Sports Revolution Foundation kicks off a 22-day sports empowerment journey in Haryana, assessing sports facilities and nurturing young talents. Their mission extends to forming an organization for athletes' advocacy, promoting fair play, and addressing deficiencies, with the findings to be presented to the Chief Minister.

Antim Panghal, the rising star of Indian wrestling, recently received the Arjuna Award for her exceptional achievements. Hailing from Haryana, she secured historic victories, becoming a two-time junior world champion and clinching medals at the Asian Championships and Asian Games. Her remarkable journey reflects dedication, family support, and global recognition.

In summary, the protest underscores the complexities and tensions within Indian wrestling, with junior wrestlers expressing dissatisfaction and demanding changes in leadership and decision-making processes.

Yogeshwar Dutt, also an Olympic medalist in wrestling, criticised Rahul Gandhi's visit, stating that wrestlers are now turning into politicians. Dutt accused Congress of collaborating with wrestlers solely to replace Prime Minister Modi, asserting that the focus should be on sports rather than political manoeuvring.

In a moment of pride for Haryana, three exceptional athletes are set to receive the prestigious National Sports Awards 2023 for their outstanding contributions. Golfer Diksha Dagar and wrestlers Sunil Kumar and Antim Panghal have been selected for the esteemed Arjuna Award.