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Single, but not ready to mingle, confesses former Miss Universe

9 hours ago  
News / Mid-Day/ Sports  
Former Miss Universe Olivia Culpo is no mood to find love at this weekend's Country Music Association (CMA) Awards, where she is slated to present the Vocal Group of the Year, at the Bridgestone Arena in Nashville, Tennessee. When an entertainment reporter Cassie DiLaura asked her if she was ready to mingle with any of the handsome country music bachelors following her recent split with National Football League star Danny Amendola, Culpo replied in the negative. "No. For the record, no," she was quoted as saying by Fox News. According to reports, Culpo split with the Miami Dolphins wide receiver Amendola last month after pictures of him flirting with sports reporter Bianca Peters on a beach in Miami surfaced, while she was away in Australia. While the breakup might still be fresh, Culpo has quite a busy schedule and said she has no time for love. Danny Amendola and Olivia Culpo Talking about her plans for the coming weeks, Culpo said: "I have a Sports Illustrated event this weekend ..
                 

Genie Bouchard shows off her sexy curves in a red bikini

9 hours ago  
News / Mid-Day/ Sports  
Canadian tennis ace Eugenie Bouchard has once again flaunted her beach body on social media, and this time it's 'red' hot! Yesterday, she Instagrammed this picture, soaking up the Miami sun and wrote: "Caption this lol." Eugenie Bouchard is a Canadian-born professional tennis player residing in the Bahamas. At the 2014 Wimbledon Championships, she became the first Canadian-born player representing Canada to reach the final of a Grand Slam tournament in singles, finishing runner-up to Petra Kvitová; she also reached the semifinals of the 2014 Australian Open and 2014 French Open. Having won the 2012 Wimbledon girls' title, she was named WTA Newcomer of the Year at the end of the 2013 WTA Tour. Finally, Bouchard received the WTA Most Improved Player award for the 2014 season and reached a career-high ranking of No. 5, becoming the first Canadian female tennis player to be ranked in the top 5 in singles. Catch up on all the latest sports news and updates here. Also download the ..
                 

Birla scion Aryaman hits maiden FC ton as MP salvage a draw

11 hours ago  
News / Mid-Day/ Sports  
Left-handed opener Aryaman Birla slammed his maiden first-class century to help Madhya Pradesh salvage a draw following on, as Bengal had to settle for three points in their first Ranji Trophy home match of the season here ion Thursday. Scion of the Birla family, Aryaman remained unbeaten on 103 in his third first-class match, while Shubham Sharma gave him fine support with 100 not out on the fourth day to hand Madhya Pradesh one point in their Ranji Trophy Elite Group B fixture. Bengal, who enjoyed a first innings lead in their last match in Himachal Pradesh, have now six points from two games. Having taken a first innings lead over Tamil Nadu in their last match, Madhya Pradesh now have four points. Reeling at 69 for three in their second innings after being asked to follow-on, the 21-year-old opener showed fine application with Sharma as the duo managed the rescue act in an unbroken 171-run partnership for the fourth wicket. Son of business tycoon Kumar Mangalam Birla, Aryaman hit..
                 

Graeme Swann loses tons of kgs courtesy dance routines

12 hours ago  
News / Mid-Day/ Sports  
Former England cricketer Graeme Swann, 39, who was a part of the 2009 Ashes-winning side, has revealed that he has lost oodles of weight after joining British dance reality show — Strictly Come Dancing. After training and performing with partner Oti Mabuse, Swann said he has lost two-and-a-half-stone (around 16 kg) across the last two months. When the show's host Zoe Ball asked him about the weight loss, Swann joked that his aerobics themed Salsa was the reason for it, besides the treadmills. Meanwhile, Swann, who has three kids — Wilfred, seven, Charlotte, six, and Jessica, two, with Sarah — said that he's struggling to be a part of the show: "We have three very young kids. I live in Nottingham and it's hard balancing everything." Catch up on all the latest T20 news and updates here. Also download the new mid-day Android and iOS apps to get latest updates..
                 

IND vs AUS: Happy to play without altercations, says Virat Kohli

14 hours ago  
News / Mid-Day/ Sports  
If the Australians are thinking of engaging Virat Kohli in verbal volleys to fluster the Indian skipper's focus during the much-anticipated four-Test Border-Gavaskar Trophy series next month, their attempts may end up being futile. For, Kohli made it clear yesterday that any sort of provocation will not have an effect on him. Kohli came under fire after showing his middle finger to the crowd that had annoyed him during the 2012 Sydney Test. He nearly got slapped a ban for his gesture. Kohli, who was skipper during the last Australia tour in 2014-15 after MS Dhoni's abrupt retirement, smashed four centuries and a half century in the Test series despite the Aussies getting under his skin quite often. His verbal duel with the now-retired Mitchell Johnson and being labelled a "spoilt brat" worked in his favour as he smashed 692 runs in eight innings. "On a personal level, I don't need to go and find these things [altercations or arguments] anymore. I can play without pumping myself up," ..
                 

Indian sprinter Hima Das is UNICEF India's first youth ambassador

16 hours ago  
News / Mid-Day/ Sports  
The United Nations Children's Fund-India (UNICEF India) has appointed Asian Games gold medallist sprinter Hima Das as the country's first youth ambassador. The name of the champion athlete from Assam was announced by UNICEF in a tweet on Wednesday coinciding with Children's Day celebrated on November 14 and commemorating the country's first Prime Minister Jawaharlal Nehru's birthday. "I'm honoured to be chosen as UNICEF India's Youth Ambassador, and I hope I will be able to inspire more children to follow their dreams," Das said. Hailing from Nagaon district, Das clinched a gold medal in the women's 4x400 m relay event at the 2018 Asian Games. She also bagged n a silver medal in the 400m event. Catch up on all the latest sports news and updates here. Also download the new mid-day Android and iOS apps to get latest updates This story has been sourced from a third party syndicated feed, agencies. Mid-day accepts no responsibility or liability for its dependability, trustworthiness, r..
                 

IPL: Rajasthan Royals, Hyderabad Sunrisers retain Smith, Warner

17 hours ago  
News / Mid-Day/ Sports  
Disgraced Australian stars Steve Smith and David Warner will make a comeback in next year's Indian Premier League Twenty20 tournament, their franchises announced Thursday. Both Smith and Warner were barred from participating in the lucrative league this season after their involvement in a ball tampering scandal. Rajasthan Royals named Smith in their squad and Warner stayed with Sunrisers Hyderabad as the 12th IPL officially kicked off with the announcement of player retention from all franchises. The duo are serving one-year international bans but recently padded up for club cricket in Australia. Warner, who had led Sunrisers to victory in IPL 2016 edition, and Smith, captain of Royals, were suspended just ahead of the 2018 edition by the league's governing council. Royals and Sunrisers have not named their captains for the upcoming season. Apart from Smith, Royals also retained their England stars in Jos Buttler, Ben Stokes, Jofra Archer and New Zealand's Ish Sodhi. Overseas stars ..
                 

Wrestlers Sushil Kumar, Swapna Barman dropped from revised TOPS list

18 hours ago  
News / Mid-Day/ Sports  
Wrestler Sushil Kumar and India's first Asian Games gold medallist heptathlete Swapna Barman were Thursday dropped from the latest Target Olympic Podium Scheme (TOPS) which was revised keeping in mind the 2020 Tokyo Olympics. Sushil, who won bronze and silver medals respectively in 2008 Beijing and 2012 London Olympics in 66kg freestyle category, crashed out in his first qualification bout at this year's Jakarta Asian Games in the 74kg and the latest result didn't go in his favour. Besides Sushil, another big name to have been dropped from the latest TOPS list, which was reviewed last in July 18 before the Asian Games, is Swapna, who created a flutter in Jakarta by becoming India's first gold medallist in heptathlon. Keeping an eye on 2020 and 2024 Olympics, the government's Mission Olympic Cell on Thursday reviewed three sporting disciplines -- athletics, wrestling and weightlifting. In athletics, the number has been reduced from 31 to just 10, which includes two new faces in triple ..
                 

Bengaluru Open: Defending champ Sumit Nagal bows out

18 hours ago  
News / Mid-Day/ Sports  
Sumit Nagal's dream of defending his Bengaluru Open title went up in smoke after he was knocked out in the quarterfinals of the USD 1,50,000 ATP Challenger event by compatriot Saketh Myneni here Thursday. Nagal lost in straight sets 4-6 4-6 to Myneni, a wild card entrant. Joining Myneni in the semifinals was fourth seed Prajnesh Gunneswaran, who did not have to break a sweat to get the better of Sasi Kumar Mukund, who had to withdraw owing to a severe back pain after losing three service points he managed on the day. In the semifinals, Myneni will clash with Aleksandr Nedovyesov of Kazakhstan, who won 6-4 6-2 over Frederico Ferreira Silva of Portugal while Gunneswaran will meet Canadian Brayden Schnur. Schnur beat Cem Ilkel of Turkey 6-3 6-4 in another quarterfinal encounter. Myneni and Nagal played contrasting tennis. While the former waited for opportunities to catch his opponent on the wrong foot, the latter as usual played with aggression, hitting long and deep shots. With a brea..
                 

WT20: Mithali Raj scores fifty, India eves beat Ireland to enter semis

19 hours ago  
News / Mid-Day/ Sports  
Indian spinners produced yet another controlled performance to clinch a semi-final berth with a comfortable 52-run victory against Ireland in a group league encounter of the ICC Women's World T20 on Thursday. After managing 145 for 6 on a slow track, Indian spinners maintained tight leash on Irish women restricting them to 93 for 8 in 20 overs. With their third win, India with six points were assured of a last-four spot along with Australia (6 points from 3 games) with New Zealand, Pakistan and Ireland already even before their campaign could officially end. While India's batting performance leaving a lot to be desired, the spinners Radha Yadav (3/25 in 4 overs), Deepti Sharma (2/15 in 3 overs), Poonam Yadav (1/14 in 4 overs) and skipper Harmanpreet Kaur (1/10 in 4 overs) were economical as well picked wickets at regular intervals. India's strategy of packing off-side cordon and bowling wide of stumps, paid off as Ireland were never in the chase conceding as many as 65 dot balls (nea..
                 

Shastri on WC ODI team: Rest period over, no chopping and changing now

20 hours ago  
News / Mid-Day/ Sports  
No more experiments. From now on, Virat Kohli and the think tank will focus only on those players who are certainties for the ODI World Cup in England next year. On the eve of the team's departure to Australia yesterday, India's head coach Ravi Shastri made it clear: "As far as one-day cricket is concerned, we will try and play close to the 15 [players] who will go to the World Cup. Chopping, changing over; rest period over. Now is the time to play as a unit. Hopefully, we will not have injuries to make us look elsewhere," Shastri said in the BCCI headquarters at the Wankhede Stadium yesterday. India will play three ODIs against Australia Down Under and then take on New Zealand in Kiwiland for five limited overs matches. Australia will tour India in February for five ODI matches. "We have eight good games now in Australia and New Zealand and then five here against Australia. We will try and play the best team at all times," said Shastri. India players celebrate a wicket during the fi..
                 

MSSA: Don Bosco struggle to beat Thakur Public 1-0 for QF entry

20 hours ago  
News / Mid-Day/ Football  
Don Bosco (Matunga) snatched a narrow 1-0 win against Thakur Public School (Kandivli) in a pre-quarter-final match of the Mumbai Schools Sports Association-organised Utpal Sanghvi boys' U-14 knockout inter-school football tournament at Azad Maidan yesterday. The Don Bosco outfit were the better of the two sides and their forwards, who showed some good ball control and fine dribbling skills, enjoyed most of ball possession. But the strikers relied more on individual brilliance and that proved to be their undoing. Don Bosco finally succeeded in finding the decisive goal in the 41st minute when substitute striker Zarayus Anklesaria chased a long aerial ball and sneaked between the two centre-backs before shooting past goalkeeper Aniket Bohra, who made a valiant diving attempt. Catch up on all the latest sports news and updates here. Also download the new mid-day Android and iOS apps to get latest updates..
                 

'Don't think this Indian side is better than ones I played against'

yesterday  
News / Mid-Day/ Sports  
Former Australia captain Steve Waugh is "not sure" if the current Indian team led by Virat Kohli is any better than some of the sides that he played against during his international career. Waugh spoke in reference to India coach Ravi Shastri's comments that this is "the best Indian side in the last 15 years". "Look I have played against some great Indian sides and I am not sure that the current side is better than the ones we played against," Waugh told ESPN Cricinfo in an interview. The 53-year-old said such comments could have been avoided as it puts pressure on the team. "I am not really sure but probably not a great thing to say as it puts extra pressure on the team. Once they start losing, they will get a lot of criticism for that. Look, it's good that Ravi Shastri believes in his side but comments like these could be kept to himself," Waugh said. The former skipper known for his mental disintegration tactic feels that Australia despite recent problems would be hard to beat i..
                 

Crouch's model wife Abbey feels 'shopping with kids is hell on earth'

yesterday  
News / Mid-Day/ Sports  
Former England football star Peter Crouch's model wife Abbey Clancy loves to go shopping with her friends or her mother Karen, but not with her kids Sophia, seven, Liberty, three and Johnny, nine months. When asked by British tabloid, The Daily Mail, whether she prefers to shop online or browse in stores, she replied: "I do like browsing round shops, but I have to do it when I've got no kids with me because it's like hell on earth shopping with kids! Liberty likes to run and hide in between the clothes, the others are moaning at me 'can we go to the kids' section', Johnny's trying to climb out of his pram, It's kind of stressful going shopping with the kids! It's something I like to do with my girlfriends or with my mum in a kid-free environment." Crouch's daughters Sophia, Liberty and son Johnny. Pic/Instagram Meanwhile, Clancy said that though she loves to deck up, after having three children, she prefers to dress according to the occasion. "I'm from Liverpool, it's in our blood t..
                 

Mary Kom eyes historic sixth world boxing title

yesterday  
News / Mid-Day/ Sports  
Celebrated boxer M C Mary Kom will aim for a historic sixth gold at the AIBA Women' World Championships, the build up of which has been marred by a row over lone Kosovan boxer's participation and poor quality air in the national capital. The 10th edition of the championships, set to be the biggest ever with more than 300 participants from 72 countries, is being held in the backdrop of boxing's uncertain Olympic future in the aftermath of controversial Uzbek businessman Gafur Rakhimov's election as president. Commensurate with its status as global power in women's boxing with the third most number of medals in the history of the event, India is hosting the championships for the second time after 2006 when the country topped the table with eight medals (4 gold, 1 silver, 3 bronze). The 10-member Indian team, which is a mix of seasoned and young boxers, is unlikely to repeat the 2006 feat but is expecting at least three medals, including a gold. The 'Magnificent Mary', who will fight ..
                 

Ashish Nehra: Pacers will face big challenge in Australia

yesterday  
News / Mid-Day/ Sports  
The Indian pace attack has been a revelation this year during overseas tours but tougher conditions in Australia will make it a very challenging series for the fast bowlers, reckons former speedster Ashish Nehra. Nehra, who was a part of the Indian squad that drew 1-1 during the 2003-04 series in Australia, felt the current attack "has the ability" to succeed but conditions will be different than what they got in England and South Africa. "The Australian team are going through a massive restructuring and this is India's best chance without doubt. We have the bowling attack to beat them. But we need to be mindful that conditions will be much tougher Down Under where the wickets will be flat and weather would be on warmer side," Nehra said. "In Australia, you will get extra bounce but there will only be lateral movement till the Kookaburra seam doesn't flatten. It won't be like England where the ball swings all day. Once you get adjusted to the bounce, batsmen can hit you all day," sa..
                 

Ex-Sri Lanka skipper Tillakaratne Dilshan joins politics

yesterday  
News / Mid-Day/ Sports  
Sri Lanka's former cricket captain Tillakaratne Dilshan Wednesday joined the political party of former leader Mahinda Rajapakse, soon after his controversial government was voted out by the legislature. Rajapakse was named by the president as prime minister in October following the shock sacking of Ranil Wickremesinghe. After several weeks of political wrangling in which Wickremesinghe refused to stand down, Rajapakse was voted out in a no-confidence action. Dilshan, 42, took membership in Rajapakse's newly-formed Sri Lanka People's Front (SLPP) on the same day the national parliament defeated the former president in a landmark vote. There was no immediate comment from Dilshan -- who quit international cricket in 2016 -- but the party posted a photo of him obtaining his membership from a senior politician. Dilshan played 87 Tests, scored 5,492 runs and has taken 39 wickets giving away 1,711 runs. Several top Sri Lankan cricket stars have gone on to enter politics. Sri Lanka's World..
                 

Won't be happy if Wayne Rooney scores, says USA boss

yesterday  
News / Mid-Day/ Sports  
The decision to honour Wayne Rooney's England career in tonight's friendly against the United States has been backed by their head coach David Sarachan. Rooney will make a late substitute appearance in a match named in honour of his foundation, with the Football Association's decision to toast the former captain's achievements splitting opinion. Asked what he thought of the move to include Rooney and pay tribute to his career, the interim coach replied: "If he scores against us I won't be happy about the decision! I have thought about it because I know it has caused controversy. I think a player like Rooney who had such a terrific international career, in the league but in terms of his national team, to have an opportunity to reward him for that as a federation, I kind of applaud that. Catch up on all the latest sports news and updates here. Also download the new mid-day Android and iOS apps to get latest updates This story has been sourced from a third party syndicated feed, agen..
                 

Mahmudullah gives Bangladesh the edge vs Zimbabwe

yesterday  
News / Mid-Day/ Sports  
Mahmudullah Riyad scored his first Test century in more than eight years as Bangladesh set Zimbabwe a towering 443-run target to win the second Test in Dhaka on Wednesday. The hosts began their victory push, reducing Zimbabwe to 76-2 at stumps on the fourth day after Mahmudullah's unbeaten 101 off 122 balls helped the side declare the second innings on 224-6. Off-spinner Mehidy Hasan broke a 68-run opening stand by removing Hamilton Masakadza for 25 after he dropped the Zimbabwe captain on five off debutant pacer Khaled Ahmed. Mehidy also dropped Brian Chari on naught but fellow spinner Taijul Islam dismissed the opener for 43 soon after Bangladesh got their first breakthrough. Brendon Taylor and Sean Williams remained at the crease on four and two respectively, facing a monumental task to win or avoid a loss as Zimbabwe still trailed the hosts by 367 runs. Zimbabwe lead the two-match series 1-0 after last week's victory in Sylhet -- their first away Test win in 17 years. A draw in t..
                 

U-14 football: Stanislaus enter Utpal Sanghvi semis

yesterday  
News / Mid-Day/ Sports  
St Stanislaus (Bandra) combined well to beat Colaba Municipal School 3-0 in a quarter-final encounter of the Mumbai Schools Sports Association-organised Utpal Sanghvi Boys' U-14 knockout inter-schools football tournament, at Azad Maidan yesterday. The Bandra boys were lucky to snatch the early lead when striker Nilesh Ekka cashed in on a misunderstanding between the Colaba school's defender Ganesh Sirgiri and goalkeeper Bhimraj Jadhav while clearing the ball. Nilesh was alert to swoop in on the opportunity and slotted the ball into an empty net in the very second minute. However, Nilesh was denied a second almost immediately when his attempt at goal off skipper Shane D'Costa's cross from the left was punched away by Colaba custodian Bhimraj. St Stanislaus doubled the lead through Jaffer Mansoori's strike in the 10th minute, going into the break sitting in a comfortable 2-0 cushion. After switching ends, the Colaba boys tried their best to find the net but were unable to break d..
                 

Bleeding on lungs sees Aussie paceman John Hastings retire

2 days ago  
News / Mid-Day/ Sports  
Australian fast bowler John Hastings has retired from all forms of cricket fearing a mystery ailment could lead him to bleed to death on the field. The burly all-rounder, who has represented his country in all three formats of the game, revealed last month he was struggling with an illness that causes him to cough up blood whenever he bowls.He first noticed the issue several years ago and despite a battery of tests and operations is no closer to knowing why it happens. "It's (only) when I bowl. The pressure at the crease, little blood vessels in my lungs burst," he told The Age newspaper in Melbourne on Wednesday. "That determines that I cough up blood on a regular basis when I'm trying to bowl. It's a really scary thing."  The 33-year-old, who was planning to play in Australia's Twenty20 Big Bash League next month, said he was otherwise healthy. His decision to pull the pin came after doctors were unable to reassure him that he wouldn't bleed to death on the cricket pitc..
                 

SRK's promise to Rohit Sharma: Will perform Baazigar song live at IPL

2 days ago  
News / Mid-Day/ Sports  
Kolkata Knight Riders co-owner and Bollywood star Shah Rukh Khan has promised India batsman Rohit Sharma that he will perform one of the hit numbers — Kaali Kaali Aankhen from his film Baazigar live during the Indian Premier League (IPL). Recently, to celebrate 25 years of his film Baazigar, SRK tweeted: "25yrs of Baazigar. A film that defines my career & gave me lifelong friends. Thx Utd 7 @rtnjn @theabbasmustan @KajolAtUN @TheShilpaShetty Thomas Johnnybhai Annu Rakhiji Sid Dilip Sarojji Rekha AkbarB & everyone on the film." To which, Rohit replied: "One of my top movies, no questions!! @iamsrk." And Shah Rukh was quick to answer saying: "Next time will do Kaali Kaali Aankhen for you live at the IPL my friend. Keep healthy. Love to u." Rohit retweeted with a comment: "@iamsrk I'm going to hold you to that. And at Eden Gardens so I can add that to my list of memories there." Catch up on all the latest T20 news and updates here. Also download the new mid-day Android and..
                 

Zlatan Ibrahimovic named top MLS newcomer

2 days ago  
News / Mid-Day/ Football  
Swedish forward Zlatan Ibrahimovic of the Los Angeles Galaxy was named Monday as Major League Soccer Newcomer of the Year, defeating England's Wayne Rooney among others for the award. Ibrahimovic won in a balloting of MLS coaches and players plus a media panel with an average of 36.36 percent support to 32.25 percent for DC United captain Rooney. Mexico's Carlos Vela of Los Angeles FC was third on 13.47 percent. Ibrahimovic scored 22 goals and added 10 assists in what was only the third 20-and-10 season in MLS history. The Galaxy went 9-2 with four drawn when the Swedish icon scored a goal. With a roundhouse volley kick to score against Toronto FC on September 15, Ibrahimovic netted his 500th career goal, joining Lionel Messi and Cristiano Ronaldo as only the third active player to reach that lofty milestone. Ibrahimovic failed to lead the Galaxy into the playoffs but his career has already included titles with European giants FC Barcelona, Paris Saint-Germain and Inter Milan. He has..
                 

NFL star Russell Wilson's singer wife Ciara has a Superwoman feeling!

2 days ago  
News / Mid-Day/ Other sports  
National Football League star Russell Wilson's singer wife Ciara has revealed that she felt like she possessed superpowers after she delivered daughter Sienna Princess Wilson last year. "I felt more empowered than ever after I had my daughter and having two kids, I really felt like 'Let's get it!' I felt like superwoman even more. I just have more motivation behind all that I do because of them. My family, my husband [he's another one of my babies as well] — it's been an incredible time for all of us, I'd like to say," Ciara told AOL.com. Ciara explained it is her family who keeps her grounded and if not for their support, she would not be able to strike a balance between her career, being a mother and wife. "It is really a balancing act because when I go home, the identity of who I'm known to the world as is completely removed. I feel like my family gives me balance and they keep me grounded. "I like when I get home that I can just truly be me. It's not about all the glitz an..
                 

Rohit Sharma rested for India 'A' opener in New Zealand

2 days ago  
News / Mid-Day/ Sports  
Keeping in mind his recent workload, Rohit Sharma was on Tuesday rested for India A's first unofficial Test in New Zealand after being named in the squad originally. Rohit, who has made a comeback to the Test side, will now leave for Australia with India's T20 squad on Friday. "Rohit Sharma has been advised rest by the BCCI Medical Team in consultation with the team management and the All-India Senior Selection Committee. The decision was taken keeping in mind his recent workload," said the BCCI in a statement. The senior batsman has made the Test team on the back of his stellar performances in limited overs cricket. He was picked for the four-day game alongside senior players such as Ajinkya Rahane, Murali Vijay, Hanuma Vihari, Parthiv Patel and young Prithvi Shaw, who are all part of the India squad for the four-Test series in Australia. India A coach Rahul Dravid had pointed out that playing in New Zealand ahead of the Australia tour would provide valuable match time to the senio..
                 

Cristiano Ronaldo becomes ball kid for Novak Djokovic's match

3 days ago  
News / Mid-Day/ Sports  
Considered as one of the best football players in the world, striker Cristiano Ronaldo on Monday night found a new job of a ball kid at the ongoing ATP Finals. Ronaldo got involved in ball kid duties while watching world number one Novak Djokovic¿s opening match against John Isner of America as the tennis ball bounced into the stands near the first row where he was sitting. Pleased to see Ronaldo watching tennis, Djokovic, who was wearing black and white, jokingly said, "I had colours of his club on my attire tonight. I'm sure he was happy to see that." It is not the first time that Juventus forward has watched any professional tennis. Last year, the football star was in attendance to watch Spaniard Rafael Nadal beat Djokovic in the semi-finals of the Mutua Madrid Open. "It is great to have big football star like him, courtside watching tennis. He used to come and watch Rafa (Rafael Nadal), Roger (Federer) and myself in Madrid. He's a fan of tennis," Djokovic said. "He's on..
                 

Ashwini Ponnappa's day out with PV Sindhu and other shuttlers

3 days ago  
News / Mid-Day/ Sports  
Ashwini Ponnappa shared pictures of herself with PV Sindhu and other badminto players on Instagram. Ashwini Ponnappa is known to be a close friend of the Olympic silver-medallist PV Sindhu, as the duo are often seen together during badminton tournaments. Ashwini Ponnappa was in the news recently when she voiced her opinions on the ongoing #MeToo movement. After Ponnappa's former doubles partner Jwala Gutta, alleged mental harassment at the hand of the national coach, Ashwini Ponnappa said "In a nation like India, you need to be tough and careful as well. It's important to stand by them, listen to them and give them strength and courage. It's not easy to speak up and voice your opinion." Catch up on all the latest T20 news and updates here. Also download the new mid-day Android and iOS apps to get latest updates..
                 

Gaining match-time experience in NZ will help on Aus tour, says Dravid

3 days ago  
News / Mid-Day/ Sports  
The playing conditions will not be similar to Australia but it would be still be valuable match practice for the Test regulars, who are part of India A squad in New Zealand, insists Rahul Dravid. India Test vice-captain Ajinkya Rahane, Rohit Sharma, Murali Vijay, Prithvi Shaw, Parthiv Patel and Hanuma Vihari figure in the A squad for the first unofficial Test, scheduled in Mount Maunganui from November 16. All these six players have also been picked for the four-Test series in Australia, beginning December 6. "I think it will be a very good opportunity for some of the boys who are requested by the senior team management to be a part of the A tour," Dravid told bcci.tv. "They will be able to gain some match-time experience even if the conditions are not going to be exactly the same or it is not like being in Australia. The A team format is pretty competitive and it is match-time experience. It is a good opportunity in the lead up to international tours." India A are scheduled to play ..
                 

Virat Kohli got emotional and lost control with fan, says Anand

3 days ago  
News / Mid-Day/ Sports  
Five-time former world champion Viswanathan Anand feels India cricket captain Virat Kohli became a bit emotional and lost control during his "leave India" comment to a fan on social media, which snowballed into a massive controversy. Kohli had stirred up a massive controversy and was trolled on social media and slammed by critics over his "I don't think you should live in India" response to an enthusiast who called the skipper overrated while expressing his admiration for English and Australian batsmen. "I think he lost control. He got a bit emotional and he just said the first thing that came to his mind," Anand, one of India's greatest sporting icons, told PTI on the sidelines of the Tata Steel Chess here. "That's the attitude he is comfortable with. In sport, you see all characters and this is the character that fits him best. "I try to be myself and in the end you should be comfortable in your own skin," he added. In a video available on his mobile app, Kohli was reading tweets a..
                 

Mohammad Shami banking on videos to click in Australia

3 days ago  
News / Mid-Day/ Sports  
India pacer Mohammed Shami on Monday said they are preparing for the Australia series by watching videos of their opponents in order to get the line and length right. The Indian pace attack impressed in England but it's the batsmen who let them down to lose the series 1-4. "As a fast bowling unit, we did well in England. We are preparing for the Australia series and watching a lot of videos. The plan is to focus on the series as much as possible as the opponents are very strong. We will work on getting the line and length right," Shami told reporters here. Shami, who was part of the Test and ODI squads in their just concluded series against West Indies, was back home and visited the Eden Gardens on the sidelines of Bengal's Ranji Trophy match against Madhya Pradesh. "We will always try to do our best. Winning or losing also depends on luck. We will give our 100 per cent," Shami said. India will play four Test matches against Australia with the first five-day contest commencing in Ade..
                 

F1: Max Verstappen threatens to punch Esteban after being denied GP win

3 days ago  
News / Mid-Day/ Sports  
Dutch driver Max Verstappen was accused of trying to punch French rival Esteban Ocon after a controversial clash at Sunday's Brazilian Grand Prix which was won by five-time world champion Lewis Hamilton. Red Bull star Verstappen was seen on TV pushing Force India's Ocon three times and accused of threatening to hit him, after the pair had collided on track. The collision on lap 44 of the 71-lap race at Interlagos' famed Senna S curves cost Verstappen the race and he had to settle for second place. 'Unprofessional behaviour'"We were at the scales room," said Ocon. "He wanted to punch me. He pushed me and he was wanting to be violent. It was not professional." "On the first lap, I was faster and, on the second lap, I was a lot faster. The rules say you are allowed to un-lap so that's what I did. I'm used to the fights with Max. He's always been the same. It goes back a few years." Max Verstappen Verstappen swore so much on team radio that his comments bleeped out after he described hi..
                 

Sunil Gavaskar: Club cricket is lifeblood for Test team

3 days ago  
News / Mid-Day/ Sports  
Legendary Indian batsman and Mumbai stalwart Sunil Gavaskar reinforced the importance of club culture as it has played a massive role in the development of city's cricketers to break into the international scene. Gavaskar, who showed exemplary commitment for Dadar Union Sporting Club during his playing days, was delighted to be present as chief guest on the 71st Police Shield prize distribution ceremony at Police Gymkhana yesterday. Addressing the winning team Parkophene Cricketers and runners-up Payyade Sports Club, Gavaskar said: "I am always happy to be present for such events because I believe club cricket is the lifeblood of your Test team. Without club cricket, you will not get players who will play Ranji Trophy and then go on to play Test cricket or one-day internationals. Therefore, club cricket becomes very important." Gavaskar highlighted the city's rich cricketing ethos. "Mumbai's cricketing culture is something unique. It's a culture which teaches you not to give up. It t..
                 

Mithali Raj exclusive: I was into dance, but cricket was my destiny

3 days ago  
News / Mid-Day/ Sports  
Fearless. Strong. Positive. These words printed on Mithali Raj's T-shirt perfectly sum up India's most celebrated women's cricketer. Probably, the words make up her success mantra as well. It is the supreme combination of skill and optimum state of mind that has helped Raj reach the pinnacle of her sport. Next June, Raj, who is just three short of 200 ODI caps, will complete two decades in international cricket after carving a century on ODI debut v Ireland at Milton Keynes in 1999. Along the way, she has shattered several records. Her latest feat was becoming India's highest T20 scorer [105 v Australia 'A' on October 24]. Before the Indian team departed for the ICC World T20 in the Caribbean, Mithali took time off to appear on mid-day's Meet Your Icon at the Mumbai Cricket Association Recreation Centre in Bandra Kurla Complex. Mithali, who turns 36 on December 3, got candid about her cricketing journey, revealed her biggest secret and plans for the future. Excerpts: Almost two decad..
                 

Manchester City star Sterling buys Rottweiler to protect his family

4 days ago  
News / Mid-Day/ Sports  
Manchester City footballer Raheem Sterling recently purchased a £15,000 (Rs 14lakh) guard dog to protect his family at their Cheshire mansion. The England striker bought a tough Rottweiler named Okan. Earlier, the company from whom Sterling bought the pet, had posted a photo of Okan with the caption "Young Beast." And the former Liverpool star replied: "In love." The winger joins the list of star footballers to own a pet, including West Ham's Andy Carroll who has two Italian mastiffs. Manchester United defender Phil Jones, 24, and West Ham midfielder Mark Noble, 29, own German and Belgian shepherd dogs respectively. Sterling recently committed his future to Manchester City after signing a three-year contract extension with the Premier League champions. Catch up on all the latest sports news and updates here. Also download the new mid-day Android and iOS apps to get latest updates..
                 

Manpreet Singh wishes 'cocky' Rupinder Pal Singh on his 28th birthday!

4 days ago  
News / Mid-Day/ Sports  
India hockey drag-flicker Rupinder Pal Singh turned 28 yesterday and one of the first people to wish him on Twitter was skipper Manpreet Singh. Manpreet posted a fun picture  of the lanky defender wearing a rooster head-shaped cap, with the message: "Happy Birthday @rupinderbob3 paji — you have been a wonderful brother on/off the field, may this special birthday bring you lots of happiness and success. Rab Rakha." The picture has an interesting story. It was taken during the Asian Games in Indonesia earlier this year, where coach Harendra Singh had devised some funny punishments for indiscipline. Any player or team official who was late for a meeting or who misplaced something or wore improper attire, was made to wear this funny-looking 'cocky' headgear inside the Athletes Village for 24 hours. It is learnt that coach Harendra was one of the victims of his own ruling, and now we know that so was Rupinder. The punishment however, didn't apply on match days. Catch up on all..
                 

Sourav Ganguly terms Wriddhiman Saha best 'keeper in last 5-10 years'

4 days ago  
News / Mid-Day/ Sports  
A shoulder injury has forced Wriddhiman Saha out of action as of now but he has been India's best wicketkeeper in the last five to ten years, reckons former captain Sourav Ganguly. The 34-year-old Saha, who has been India's number one wicketkeeper in Test cricket since MS Dhoni's retirement in December 2014, is undergoing rehab for his shoulder surgery. "He's out of the team for about a year now but I think in the last five to 10 years' he has been India's best glovesman. Hope he recovers soon," Ganguly said. The former captain spoke during the launch of 'Wiki', a sports fiction written by senior journalist Gautam Bhattacharya. The book chronicles the journey of a struggling wicketkeeper and how he makes it big. Young Rishabh Pant has made an impressive start to his Test career and he will take flight for the upcoming Australia tour. Parthiv Patel is also in the squad as a backup to Pant. Saha, who has played 32 Tests and scored 1164 runs including three hundreds, last played in the ..
                 

Miller, Faf guide South Africa to ODI series win vs Australia

4 days ago  
News / Mid-Day/ Sports  
David Miller and Faf du Plessis plundered big-hitting centuries in a batting masterclass as South Africa beat Australia by 40 runs to win their one-day series and inflict another defeat on Justin Langer's misfiring side. The pair shared in a 252-run stand to power the Proteas to 320-5 in the third and final match in Hobart -- a record fourth wicket partnership by South Africa against the hosts in Australia. They came together at 55-3 in the 16th over with Miller swatting 139 for his fifth limited-overs century and skipper du Plessis smashing 125 -- his 10th one-day ton. A composed Shaun Marsh cracked a fighting 106 in the run chase, ably supported by Marcus Stoinis (63) and Alex Carey (42) -- an improvement on recent batting displays but still not good enough. Pace spearheads Kagiso Rabada and Dale Steyn both took three wickets in controlled and disciplined spells. The victory handed South Africa their first ODI series win in Australia since 2009 and left Australia with plenty to pond..
                 

MS Dhoni, Mary Kom biopics to have open-air screenings at IFFI

4 days ago  
News / Mid-Day/ Sports  
Indian sports biopics, such as "Mary Kom", "1983" and "MSD: The Untold Story", will have open air screenings at the the 49th edition of the International Film Festival of India (IFFI). The festival, to be held from November 20 to 28 in Goa, will give a hat-tip to the Khelo India initiative this year by recognising the contribution of Indian sportspersons. This section features a total of six Indian films that are based on the genre of sports biopics, which will also showcase "Gold", "Bhaag Milkha Bhaag" and "Soorma". "Gold" director Reema Kagti and lead Akshay Kumar, "Bhaag..." director Rakeysh Omprakash Mehra, "Soorma" director Shaad Ali and producer Chitrangda Singh and "1983" director Abrid Shine will be present at the screenings of their films at the international movie gala. Akshay will also be present at IFFI's opening ceremony. The biopics will be screened at Jogger's Park in Altinho, Panjim and will be open for public. This is a non-ticketed event. Catch up on all the ..
                 

Centurions Mominul, Mushfiqur put Bangladesh in command v Zimbabwe

4 days ago  
News / Mid-Day/ Sports  
Mominul Haque and Mushfiqur Rahim shared a record partnership with centuries apiece to put Bangladesh in a strong position in the second Test against Zimbabwe in Dhaka on Sunday. Mominul made 161 while Mushfiqur added an unbeaten 111 as Bangladesh reached 303-5 at stumps on the opening day at Sher-e-Bangla National Stadium. Mominul and Mushfiqur shared 266 runs in their fourth wicket stand, helping Bangladesh bounce back from 26-3 to cross the 200-run mark for the first time in their last nine Test innings. Mominul faced 242 balls and hit 19 fours in his seventh Test century, while Mushfiqur smashed nine fours for his sixth Test hundred. They surpassed Bangladesh's previous record-high for a fourth wicket stand of 180 runs, shared by Mominul and Liton Das against Sri Lanka earlier this year. After some early success, Zimbabwe had to wait for the second new ball to break the partnership, when Tendai Chatara forced Mominul to give a catch at gully to Brian Chari. Kyle Jarvis removed ni..
                 

Pakistan's Imam hospitalised after blow on the head

5 days ago  
News / Mid-Day/ Sports  
Pakistan beat New Zealand by six wickets in the second ODI in Abu Dhabi on Friday but the match was overshadowed by an injury to opening batsman Imam-ul-Haq, 22, who was taken to hospital after being hit on the head by a short ball. Imam, on 16, was forced to retire after a delivery from fast bowler Lockie Ferguson hit the grille of his helmet, making him dizzy before he fell to the ground. His eyes were closed, but he did not lose consciousness. Team management said that the batsman would undergo CT scans and be monitored for the next 48 hours. However, the Pakistan Cricket Board later said that scans had shown that the player had suffered no damage. Catch up on all the latest sports news and updates here. Also download the new mid-day Android and iOS apps to get latest updates This story has been sourced from a third party syndicated feed, agencies. Mid-day accepts no responsibility or liability for its dependability, trustworthiness, reliability and data of the text. Mid-day mana..
                 

Riyad Mahrez's wife Rita says Man City star is really grounded and humb

5 days ago  
News / Mid-Day/ Sports  
Manchester City star Riyad Mahrez's wife Rita insisted that her beau is not like a 'typical footballer' as he doesn't drink or cheat and even shops at supermarket Asda despite his £200,000-a-week fee. Man City signed him for £60million. "Riyad is a really grounded and humble guy and I hope it won't change us. I love Asda as it's so convenient and you can get some nice pyjamas in there. We do our own grocery shopping, but it's starting to become a problem. If Riyad's holding shopping bags, he gets people coming up to him so we might have to start sending someone for us soon," she told The Sun. Meanwhile, she added that her partner is different from other footballers. "He's never drunk alcohol in his life, as he's Muslim, and he doesn't go clubbing. Not everyone is a cheater and Riyad is different. He keeps to himself and isn't too sociable," said Rita. Catch up on all the latest sports news and updates here. Also download the new mid-day Android and iOS apps to get latest..
                 

Dinesh Ramdin rues absence of senior players

5 days ago  
News / Mid-Day/ Sports  
Denesh Ramdin reckons that absence of their top players was a major reason for their defeat in the Twenty20 series against India. "It's difficult to build a team given the current scenario. When you look at our T20 players they are in demand all over the world, so yes, we are suffering in that aspect. Our senior players did not turn up for the tour, and that's one of the reasons why we are 0-2 down in this series," Ramdin said ahead of the third T20I. Explosive batsmen Chris Gayle and spinner Sunil Narine were missing from the WI line-up. "It's all about having food on the table. The players are good enough to be taken by a team in another part of the world, then I can't stop a player who's out there to improve." Catch up on all the latest sports news and updates here. Also download the new mid-day Android and iOS apps to get latest updates This story has been sourced from a third party syndicated feed, agencies. Mid-day accepts no responsibility or liability for its dependability,..
                 

Skipper Kaur battled stomach cramps while going for big shots

5 days ago  
News / Mid-Day/ Sports  
For an ordinary cricketer, battling unbearable stomach cramp could well mean retiring to the cooler confines of the dressing room but if it is Harmanpreet Kaur, she would just hit eight sixes in order to avoid running. Known for her penchant to raise the bar on biggest platforms, the skipper smashed her way to 103 off 51 balls in India's comfortable 34-run win against New Zealand in the opening game of the ICC World T20. "Yesterday, I was having little bit back problem," Kaur said after the match. "In the morning, I was not feeling well. When I came to the ground I was feeling a little low and getting some cramps." The severe cramps hampered her running between the wickets as she came up with a different plan. "When initially I was running twos, I got a little cramp, after that the physio gave me medicine, and a little bit it settled down," she said. "Then I thought instead of running too much, if I could I get more big shots — because you run too much, you get more cramps. Th..
                 

Don't go the Windies way!

5 days ago  
News / Mid-Day/ Sports  
The recent off-field action in Australian cricket has been fierce and frenzied. Three players lost to suspension, followed by the resignation of a coach, a CEO and a Board member, then the pace really quickened with the reluctant departure of the Chairman and then close on his heels another Board member in respected former player and captain Mark Taylor. To cap off the chaos, two executives were then sacked. Advantage IndiaThe greatest beneficiary of this off-field upheaval is the Indian touring party which now has their best ever chance of beating a rattled Australia at home in a Test series. Not that India have avoided their own administrative chaos. First there was the Lodha committee recommendations to clean up the BCCI, then the Supreme Court intervention to hurry along that process. Then the Committee of Administrators (CoA) were appointed to ensure compliance. More recently former captain-turned administrator Sourav Ganguly, shared his concerns when he expressed; "A deep sense..
                 

'Nick and me have sex every time I shower'

6 days ago  
News / Mid-Day/ Sports  
American actress JoAnna Garcia Swisher and her former baseball player husband Nick have opened up about how they keep their romance alive. "He could get it [sex], like, every time I go in the shower," JoAnna, 39 told People.com. The couple, who got married in 2010, have two daughters - Sailor Stevie, two and Emerson Jay, five. "I'm like, 'I'm going to the shower.' And I sneak away. If I announce I'm going to the shower, Nick is suddenly in my bathroom," the actress added. "So now every time Jo showers, I think it's my time," said Nick, 37, the former outfielder and first baseman, who represented Oakland Athletics in Major League Baseball. Despite the bedroom door having a lock, the couple said it is hardly used. "You know what we should do? We should teach Emmy the old college trick," Nick said. "You know, with the sock on the door? That is literally a nightmare," JoAnna responded. "If my parents taught me the old sock trick, I would be in more therapy than I am already at." The soc..
                 

Arsenal boss: Welbeck's injury affected players v Sporting

6 days ago  
News / Mid-Day/ Football  
Unai Emery admitted the horror injury suffered by Danny Welbeck affected Arsenal's players in their goalless Europa League draw with Sporting Lisbon here on Thursday. England striker Welbeck was taken to hospital after sustaining a suspected broken ankle in the first half when he challenged for a header in the box before crumpling onto the pitch. Many of Welbeck's team-mates appeared distressed as he received lengthy treatment and needed an oxygen mask before being carried off on a stretcher. Gunners boss Emery said: "It's the worst news tonight, this injury. It's clear that we are with him in these minutes. He was working well and he was having a good match. He had some chances too. His injury was with the mentality of the players. They saw it was a big injury. "When you are playing football, when you are playing in competitive matches, it can happen. You don't want it to happen but this is our profession. "Now he is at the hospital. The news is that we are going to wait — but..
                 

Australia beat South Africa to end 7-match losing streak

6 days ago  
News / Mid-Day/ Sports  
Australia snapped a seven-game losing streak to beat South Africa by seven runs in the second one-dayer in Adelaide on Friday, keeping the series alive and boosting their battered confidence. Set 232 to win, the Proteas could only manage 224-9 in their 50 overs, leaving the series tied at 1-1 with the decider in Hobart on Sunday. The hosts, who were thrashed by six wickets with more than 20 overs to spare in the opening match, dug deep with their bowlers getting them over the line. Marcus Stoinis was the pick with 3-35 off his 10 overs, including the crucial scalp of David Miller who hit a stubborn 51. Adelaide has been a happy hunting ground in the past for Australia. In fact, their last win came at the oval nine months ago against England, before the reigning world champions were knocked for six by the ball-tampering scandal in South Africa in March. Their form slump since had been characterised by batting collapses and they again struggled to compile a big total with some tight So..
                 

Cristiano Ronaldo's girlfriend Georgina unveils new family cat

6 days ago  
News / Mid-Day/ Sports  
                 

NBA veteran Dwyane Wade and wife welcome 'miracle baby'

6 days ago  
News / Mid-Day/ Other sports  
Miami Heat guard Dwyane Wade and his wife, actress Gabrielle Union, announced the arrival of their daughter on Thursday, a day after she was born via a surrogate. "We are sleepless and delirious, but so excited to share that, our miracle baby, arrived last night via surrogate and 11/7 will forever be etched in our hearts as the most loveliest of all the lovely days," Wade posted on his Twitter account recently. "Welcome to the party sweet girl." The baby is Wade's fourth child and Union's first. The three-time NBA champion had missed the Heat's victory over the San Antonio Spurs on Wednesday night for unspecified personal reasons. Wade, 36, is averaging 14.3 points on 45 percent shooting, four rebounds and 2.9 assists in nine games this season, which he has said will be his last. Catch up on all the latest sports news and updates here. Also download the new mid-day Android and iOS apps to get latest updates This story has been sourced from a third party syndicated feed, agencies. Mi..
                 

Hockey India names 34 players for junior men's national camp

7 days ago  
News / Mid-Day/ Other sports  
Six players, part of the senior men's camp, were on Friday named in a 34-member core probables list for the junior national coaching camp, to be held in Bengaluru from November 11. The six players including Suman Beck, Mandeep Mor, Yashdeep Siwach, Vishal Antil, Gursahibjit Singh and Shilanand Lakra, who are currently in Bhubaneswar for the ongoing Indian senior men's team camp will report for the junior camp on November 23, Hockey India said in a release. The list also includes players from the junior men's team that participated in the recently concluded Sultan of Johor Cup in October, where they won the silver medal. The India colts had defeated hosts Malaysia 2-1, New Zealand 7-1, Japan 1-0, Australia 5-4 and narrowly lost to Great Britain 3-2 in the round robin as well as the final. "It is rewarding for some of these players to have received a call up for the ongoing senior camp in Bhubaneswar and I am sure it will benefit them and give them good exposure," coach Jude Felix sa..
                 

In a first, DRS to be used in ICC Women's T20 World Cup

7 days ago  
News / Mid-Day/ Sports  
The Decision Review System (DRS), using ball-tracking and edge detection technology, will make its first appearance at an International Cricket Council (ICC) World Twenty20 event, which will be implemented from this year's women's edition slated to commence in the West Indies on Friday. The tournament, which has been separated from the men¿s event for the first time to give its own identity and place in the international cricket calendar, will see all matches being broadcast live for the first time in more than 200 countries around the world. "Building on the momentum from last year¿s ICC Cricket World Cup which broke all viewership records with 180 million people watching the final, the coverage is part of the ICC¿s commitment to accelerating the growth of the women's game. It also reflects a growing demand for women's cricket. 70 per cent of cricket¿s one billion plus fans said they wanted more coverage of the women's game in the recent ICC global market..
                 

Arsenal progress despite Sporting stalemate, Chelsea ease through

7 days ago  
News / Mid-Day/ Sports  
Arsenal booked a place in the Europa League knockout stage and extended their unbeaten run to 15 matches despite a 0-0 draw with Sporting Lisbon, while Olivier Giroud's first goal of the season sent Chelsea through. But Arsenal striker Danny Welbeck, given a rare start just hours after being named in Gareth Southgate's England squad, had to be stretchered down the tunnel with what looked a nasty ankle injury in the first half on Thursday. Arsenal midfielders Matteo Guendouzi and Aaron Ramsey were both visibly upset after Welbeck, who is out of contract at the end of the campaign, went down after jumping to win a header. "It is mentally challenging (playing after a teammate is injured) but sometimes it comes with the game, and Danny has had a lot of injuries," winger Alex Iwobi told BT Sport. "We wish him the best and will keep on encouraging and motivating him to get back." Unai Emery's Gunners were the better side for long periods at the Emirates against a team who have already ha..
                 

Kohli urges fans to keep it light, says he's all for freedom of choice

7 days ago  
News / Mid-Day/ Sports  
Facing severe backlash for his controversial response to a fan, India captain Virat Kohli Thursday said that he is all for "freedom of choice" urging fans to "take it light". Kohli courted controversy on Wednesday when he asked a fan to "leave the country" while responding to his comment that he found the Indian skipper over-rated. His remarks did not go down well with the Twitterati, who trolled him for his unsavoury comments. "I guess trolling isn't for me guys, I'll stick to getting trolled! I spoke about how "these Indians" was mentioned in the comment and that's all. I'm all for freedom of choice. Keep it light guys and enjoy the festive season. Love and peace to all," Kohli, who was in a damage control mode, tweeted. I guess trolling isn't for me guys, I'll stick to getting trolled! 😁I spoke about how "these Indians" was mentioned in the comment and that's all. I’m all for freedom of choice. 🙏 Keep it light g..
                 

Stroll admits former giants Williams in 'survival year'

7 days ago  
News / Mid-Day/ Sports  
Former champions Williams have been reduced to struggling for survival this year without any car developments, the team's Canadian driver Lance Stroll said Thursday. Speaking at a news conference ahead of this weekend's Brazilian Grand Prix, the 20-year-old Canadian declined to confirm if he was set to leave Williams and join Force India, the team purchased by his billionaire father Lawrence Stroll, next season. Stroll is widely expected to replace talented Frenchman Esteban Ocon alongside Mexican Sergio Perez in the Silverstone-based outfit. His father led a consortium that took over the cash-strapped team in August. "It has been very challenging this year," said Stroll. "The car just hasn't been there and we've just been surviving every weekend rather than competing. "We've been getting knocked out in (qualifying) Q1 a lot and we also had races where I've made a good start and been in a points-scoring position, but we've just fallen down the order. "It's kind of always been the ca..
                 

Cristiano Ronaldo deserves to win Ballon d'Or, says Portugal coach

7 days ago  
News / Mid-Day/ Sports  
Portugal's national football team head coach Fernando Santos reiterated on Thursday that his forward and superstar Cristiano Ronaldo is worthy of being awarded the 2018 Ballon d'Or trophy. Santos' remarks came during his press conference to announce Portugal's roster for the upcoming international play, from which Ronaldo was excluded for the third time since the end of the team's 2018 FIFA World Cup campaign, reports Efe. The player and the Portuguese soccer federation agreed to rest "CR7" (Ronaldo's number) from the national team's duties in October and November. "The only thing I think about Ronaldo is that he deserves to win the Ballon d'Or," Santos said. The 53rd annual award ceremony of Ballon d'Or, organised by the French magazine France Football, is scheduled to be held in Paris on December 3. Ronaldo has won five Golden Balls; one in 2008, while he was a Manchester United player, and in 2013, 2014, 2016 and 2017, as a Real Madrid player. Ronaldo and Lionel Messi are the two..
                 

CA to give 'due consideration' to lifting bans on Smith, Warner

7 days ago  
News / Mid-Day/ Sports  
Cricket Australia will give "due consideration" to the Australian Cricketers Association's (ACA) demand of revoking the ball-tampering bans on Steve Smith and David Warner, said board CEO Kevin Roberts. ACA has increased the pressure on CA to lift the ban on Smith and Warner ever since an independent review claimed that the 'culture' nurtured by the board contributed to the ball-tampering scandal, which rocked the nation in March. The scathing review said the governing body was perceived as "arrogant" and treated its elite players like commodities, allowing 'alpha-male' egos to develop a win-at-all-costs approach. "The ACA submission around the players' sanctions was received by the board a few days ago," Roberts told reporters. "It was addressed to the board rather than to me or all management. So not for me to comment on a board matter other than to say that the board will be respecting that submission and giving it due consideration," he added. Smith and Warner were handed a 12-m..
                 

ISL 2018: Brandon, Edu on target as FC Goa edge out Delhi Dynamos 3-2

7 days ago  
News / Mid-Day/ Sports  
FC Goa struck twice late in the game to eke out a thrilling 3-2 victory over Delhi Dynamos in an Indian Super League encounter here on Thursday. Bikramjit Singh's long-range strike put the visitors in the lead as early as the sixth minute. It took almost 50 minutes and a change of ends for Goa to find the equalizer through Edu Bedia at 54th minute. However, Delhi breached the host defence to go 2-1 up with a Lallianzuala Chhangte goal in 70th minute. However Brandon Fernandes and Edu found the back of the net in the 82nd and 89th minute respectively to log full points for Gaurs. Dynamos drew first blood when Bikramjit received Adria Carmona's pass on the edge of the box and curled in a magnificent shot into the top left corner, leaving custodian Mohammad Nawaz helpless. Ferran Corominas looked hungry to score on his return from suspension as he forced Francisco Dorronsoro to a good low save to his right at the other end. Jackichand Singh crossed the ball into the box from the left a..
                 

Kohli tells fan 'you should not live in India', gets trolled online

8 days ago  
News / Mid-Day/ Sports  
India cricket captain Virat Kohli has been criticised on social media for saying that those who enjoy watching English and Australian batsmen more should leave India. In a video released on his new app, Kohli is seen replying to mean online messages from fans. In one message read by Kohli, a fan claims that he is an "over-rated batsman and I see nothing special in his batting. I enjoy watching English and Australian batsmen more." In reply, Kohli says: "Okay, I don't think you should live in India then. You should go and live somewhere else, no? Why are you living in our country and loving other countries? I don't mind you not liking me but I don't think you should live in our country and like other things. Get your priorities right." Online users have not taken kindly to Kohli's remarks. "Asking a citizen to leave his own country is not up to you Virat," wrote one user. Here are some reactions by Twitter users on Virat Kohli's comment: Nationalist @imVkohli playing next world cu..
                 

Aaron Finch: Cricket Australia chaos distracting players

8 days ago  
News / Mid-Day/ Sports  
Disarray within Cricket Australia has distracted the Australian team, one-day skipper Aaron Finch said Thursday as he urged his players to keep their focus on the field. The embattled governing body has been under intense pressure after a scathing review said its "arrogant" culture contributed to players cheating in the pursuit of victory. It has led to an overhaul of the organisation. Chairman David Peever last week followed chief executive James Sutherland out the door, director Mark Taylor quit this week and team performance boss Pat Howard is also leaving. "When there are changes, and there are things being said and written, I think it's hard not to read it sometimes when it's everywhere," Finch said in Adelaide ahead of the second ODI against South Africa. "You might spend a little bit of time reading it, and putting some kind of doubts in your mind." Cricketers Steve Smith, David Warner and Cameron Bancroft were banned for trying to alter the ball with sandpaper in South Afr..
                 

Rest fast bowlers in IPL: Teams unlikely to support Kohli's proposal

8 days ago  
News / Mid-Day/ Sports  
Indian skipper Virat Kohli wants World Cup-bound fast bowlers to be rested from next year's IPL but the idea mooted at a meeting with the Committee of Administrators (CoA) is unlikely to find favour with the franchises. During a recent meeting of the CoA in Hyderabad, Kohli suggested resting pacers, especially Jasprit Bumrah and Bhuvneshwar Kumar, from the entire IPL to keep them fresh for the World Cup. However, the India captain didn't find too many backers for his proposal as Board officials said franchises are unlikely to agree. "The IPL is starting on March 29 and will finish on May 19. In any case, there will be a 15-day gap before India play their first World Cup game against South Africa on June 5. So there is no chance that pacers can be rested for the entire duration of the IPL," a senior official, who was present in the meeting, told PTI on Thursday. In fact, limited-overs vice-captain Rohit Sharma, who was present in the meeting, also had a different take. "When Kohli ..
                 

Jamie Vardy and wife auction 10-seater for late Leicester owner Vichai

8 days ago  
News / Mid-Day/ Sports  
Leicester City striker Jamie Vardy and wife Rebekah have put their 10-seater corporate box at the King Power Stadium up for auction to raise money for a charity foundation named after late team owner Vichai Srivaddhanaprabha, who lost his life in a helicopter crash last week. Leicester host Burnley in an EPL match on Saturday and the highest bidder can watch that match from the luxury enclosure with the Vardys promising to drop in too. Rebekah wrote on Twitter: "Jamie and I are auctioning off our executive box including hospitality and personal visit from Jamie for the upcoming game against Burnley. All proceeds will go to the Vichai Srivaddhanaprabha Foundation email vsfauction@lcfc.co.uk to make bids #lcfc." Jamie's signed boots from Saturday's win over Cardiff is also up for grabs. Leicestery City's Jamie Vardy with team owner Vichai Srivaddhanaprabha after winning the EPL title in 2016 Jamie was Vichai's favourite player having guided them to the 2016 title. The couple got very ..
                 

Vietnam capital Hanoi to host its maiden Grand Prix in 2020

8 days ago  
News / Mid-Day/ Sports  
The first Hanoi Grand Prix will kick off a "long-term partnership", Formula One boss Chase Carey said Wednesday as he confirmed plans to expand motorsport's premier championship in Asia. Vietnam announced last week it will stage the race in its communist capital from April 2020, becoming only the third Southeast Asian nation to host the Formula One after Malaysia and Singapore. "We're very proud to be announcing this race," Carey told reporters in Hanoi as details of the event were unveiled. Carey said the decision to host the race in Hanoi was part of Formula One's strategy to move into markets where it hopes to groom a new generation of fans -- and boost revenues. "We plan for this to be a long-term agreement, and we intend for this to be a long-term partnership," Carey said. "The race is also an important part of our broader strategy to grow our sport in Asia, and clearly Vietnam is a driving force for the growth in Asia," he added. Hanoi municipal government chairman Nguyen Duc Ch..
                 

Champions League: Atletico got their revenge against Dortmund, says Sau

8 days ago  
News / Mid-Day/ Sports  
Atletico Madrid avenged their Borussia Dortmund drubbing from a fortnight ago and revived hopes of going through top of Group A by beating the German side 2-0 at the Wanda Metropolitano on Tuesday. Dortmund handed Atletico their heaviest defeat under Diego Simeone with a 4-0 victory 13 days ago but this contest was almost a mirror image, the hosts in control from start to finish. Saul Niguez and Antoine Griezmann scored a goal in each half to complete a win that puts Atleti five points clear of Club Brugge, and on the brink of the Champions League knock-out stage. First place is also back in sight, with Atletico and Dortmund both on nine points, even if Simeone's side have the slightly tougher task of playing Brugge away in their final fixture. After losing in Germany, Atleti were also held at struggling Leganes in La Liga on Saturday and this result, without the injured Diego Costa, Diego Godin and Koke, will do wonders for morale. Dortmund, meanwhile, host Bayern Munich in the Bund..
                 

Champions League: It could've got bad for Napoli, says Coach Ancelotti

8 days ago  
News / Mid-Day/ Sports  
Napoli coach Carlo Ancelotti admitted it could have been a lot worse after his side battled back to earn a 1-1 draw in their Champions League Group C clash with PSG at the Stadio San Paolo. The Italians recovered from falling behind in first-half stoppage-time to Juan Bernat's scuffed finish, the Spanish defender opening his account for the Ligue 1 leaders. "Our game plan tonight was initially to stop the ball from reaching Neymar and [Angel] Di Maria, and it worked well overall," Ancelotti said. "They had a lot of possession with their central defenders, and that's fine. It could have been a lot worse for us." Ancelotti continued: "I'm very happy as we came out with a small advantage [in the group table] against one of the best teams in Europe." Napoli were furious the PSG goal had been allowed after the indicated additional one minute of first-half stoppage-time. Catch up on all the latest sports news and updates here. Also download the new mid-day Android and iOS apps to get late..
                 

SL vs ENG: Foakes, Moeen put England on top

8 days ago  
News / Mid-Day/ Sports  
England spinners led by Moeen Ali helped dismiss Sri Lanka for 203 and build on their advantage after wicketkeeper-batsman Ben Foakes' debut ton in the first Test on Wednesday. The islanders conceded a 139-run lead in response to England's 342 after being bowled out in the final session of play on day two on a turning Galle pitch notorious for its low scores. Ali claimed four wickets and was ably supported by fellow spinners Jack Leach and Adil Rashid who took two each. England were 38 for no loss at stumps in their second innings, stretching their lead to 177 runs. Debutant Rory Burns, on 11, and Keaton Jennings, on 26, were batting at close of play. But it was Foakes who stood out with his patient yet effective batting in England's first essay to give the team a challenging total after electing to bat first. The 25-year-old Foakes, who replaced injured Jonny Bairstow converted his overnight 87 to 107 in the morning session to become only the fifth wicketkeeper-batsman to score a hu..
                 

Champions League: Valverde happy wit draw after Barcelona qualify

8 days ago  
News / Mid-Day/ Sports  
Ernesto Valverde declared himself happy after Barcelona qualified for the Champions League Last 16 following a 1-1 draw at Inter Milan. Barca, who would have sealed first place in Group B with a victory at the San Siro, grabbed the lead in the 83rd minute through substitute Malcom's strike. Mauro Icardi then levelled four minutes later as the visitors dropped points in the pool for the first time. "We wanted to close out our lead, we did everything possible, but we're happy because we managed to qualify," Barcelona boss Valverde said. "We played a great game, the quality of Inter is that they know how to handle themselves very well. They have earned many points in the last moments of matches." Lionel Messi was once again not involved, as for Barca's previous four matches. "We didn't want to take a risk with Leo. We were careful in training, but we knew that today's match would be like how it was." Catch up on all the latest sports news and updates here. Also download the new mid-da..
                 

Why Rishabh Pant's comparison with MS Dhoni won't help

8 days ago  
News / Mid-Day/ Sports  
Why is Rishabh Pant finding it more difficult to make a mark in white ball cricket than young bowlers? Is it because he is feeling the pressure of being hailed as the replacement for MS Dhoni? Or is he overawed by the likes of super bats Virat Kohli and Rohit Sharma? Take the example of chinaman spinner Kuldeep Yadav and now left-arm pace bowler Khaleel Ahmed. The two have been increasing their profile with each game, so much so that Kuldeep has outshone Yuzvendra Chahal and is preferred in the XI ahead of the leg-spinner. Khaleel too could soon become an integral part of the Indian bowling attack. On the other hand, Pant, after doing fairly well in Test cricket, has found life not so easy against the white ball. His failure in the two T20Is against the West Indies has some experts and his fans worried that the lad may not live up to his potential. He may also be flummoxed by Dinesh Karthik being preferred over him to keep wicket after Dhoni was dropped from the T20I squad. Some exper..
                 

Ronaldo a goal machine and money-making machine for ambitious Juventus

9 days ago  
News / Mid-Day/ Sports  
Cristiano Ronaldo's reputation has been tarnished by allegations of rape, but Juventus still believe he will help the Italian giants to reduce the financial gap between them and the world's very biggest clubs. Juventus take on Manchester United -- the world's richest club and where Ronaldo became a star -- in Turin on Wednesday knowing a draw will seal their place in the last 16 of the Champions League. They are counting on 'CR7' as they look to win the Champions League for the first time since 1996 -- they have lost five finals since then, including in 2015 and 2017. Ronaldo, now 33, has won the trophy five times himself. "Financially it has been a very rational move," financial expert Carlo Alberto Carnevale Maffe told AFP. "The lifetime value of a player extends longer than his biological age. "On the pitch he's one of the best. Ronaldo also makes the news, he gives visibility, conversation, discussion...raises your intangible value." The news recently has been as much about the r..
                 

Mumbai shuttler Ajay Jayaram decorates a colourful rangoli

9 days ago  
News / Mid-Day/ Sports  
India shuttler Ajay Jayaram is quite a good artist and has posted many of his sketches on social media. Yesterday, Jayaram posted the rangoli he made for Diwali on Instagram and wrote: "Happy Diwali guys. Dabbled with colour for a change and created some rangoli art. Hope you'll like it. Have a fun and safe Diwali guys. #rangoli #art #artistsoninstagram #duende_arts_help #diwali #diwaliart #athlete." Ajay Jayaram is a badminton player from Mumbai. He plays for the Mumbai Rockets in the Premier Badminton League. He is currently sponsored by Li-Ning, and coached by India-Born British coach Tom John. Jayaram is a champion of the Czech International and Dutch Open tournament. Catch up on all the latest sports news and updates here. Also download the new mid-day Android and iOS apps to get latest updates..
                 

PV Sindhu advances in China Open

9 days ago  
News / Mid-Day/ Sports  
Indian shuttler PV Sindhu cruised past Evgeniya Kosetskaya of Russia in the opening round of the Fuzhou China Open here Tuesday. The Olympic silver medallist registered an easy 21-13 21-19 win in a match that lasted less than 30 minutes. Sindhu, who is seeded third, hardly broke a sweat in the first game. She won six consecutive points to take a 1-0 lead. The unseeded Russian tested Sindhu in the second game which went down to the wire. However, the Indian emerged victorious in the hard-fought encounter. The 23-year-old will now take on the unseeded Busanan Ongbamrungphan of Thailand in the second round. In the women's doubles, the pairing of Ashwini Ponnappa and Sikki Reddy crashed out of the competition after losing in the first round. Ponanappa and Reddy lost 21-19 15-21 21-17 to the Japanese duo of Shiho Tanaka and Koharu Yonemoto. Catch up on all the latest sports news and updates here. Also download the new mid-day Android and iOS apps to get latest updates This story has bee..
                 

European Leagues opposing potential football Super League

9 days ago  
News / Mid-Day/ Sports  
The body representing football clubs in Europe -- European Leagues -- said on Tuesday it strongly opposed the creation of a Super League for a select group of elite clubs. According to documents published as part of the Football Leaks allegations, a group of European clubs have discussed the idea of establishing a closed competition without relegation or promotion which would replace the Champions League. These revelations show a tournament of 16 clubs -- the founding 11 would be Bayern Munich, Real Madrid, Barcelona, Juventus, AC Milan, Paris Saint-Germain, Manchester United, Manchester City, Chelsea, Liverpool and Arsenal. Atletico Madrid, Roma, Inter Milan, Borussia Dortmund, Marseille have reportedly also been invited to join. European Leagues, which consists of more than 900 clubs across 25 countries, said it recognised the "ongoing rumours and speculations around the possible creation of a European Super League". But it "voiced its strong opposition to the creation of any 'close..
                 

Debutant Foakes leads England revival vs Sri Lanka

9 days ago  
News / Mid-Day/ Sports  
Debutant Ben Foakes hit a defiant and unbeaten 87, guiding England to safety -- after Sri Lanka claimed cheap early wickets -- on 321 for eight at the end of the first day of the first Test. The Surrey wicket-keeper batsman, who knows this could just be a one-off chance as Jonny Bairstow regains fitness, came in with England precariously placed on 103 for five on a Galle pitch notorious for low scores. Foakes built crucial partnerships including an 88-run seventh wicket stand with Sam Curran, who made 48, to defy Sri Lanka's bowlers. England elected to bat first in what was Sri Lankan spin legend Rangana Herath's farewell match. The right-handed Foakes steadied the innings reaching his half century early in the final session as the tourists lost just three wickets after lunch. Foakes put on 61 for the sixth wicket with Jos Buttler, who was eventually caught behind off Dilruwan Perera for 38. Left-hander Curran attacked the bowling, hitting one four and three sixes before falling two ..
                 

Relief for MCA as High Court empowers Unmesh Khanvilkar, CS Naik

9 days ago  
News / Mid-Day/ Sports  
It was a day of celebration for the Mumbai Cricket Association (MCA) as the Bombay High Court accepted the association's request and allowed secretary Dr Unmesh Khanvilkar and Chief Executive Officer CS Naik to act as authorised signatories. MCA's day-to-day activities were disrupted since there was no authorised signatory to make payments after the High Court-appointed Committee of Administrators made an exit on September 15. This issue also caused the MCA to miss out on hosting the fourth India v West Indies one-day international recently and the game was awarded to the Cricket Club of India. Apart from permitting Khanvilkar and Naik to operate MCA bank accounts, the court also formed an ad-hoc managing committee to look after day-to-day affairs. The ad-hoc panel consists of MCA's current eligible managing committee members along with Naik. "It's a Diwali gift for MCA; the crisis has been sorted out. Having an ad-hoc committee will put everything in place. Basically, it's good for ..
                 

Chinaman Kuldeep Yadav credits IPL for success at Eden Gardens

10 days ago  
News / Mid-Day/ Sports  
The Eden Gardens is fast becoming a happy hunting ground for Kuldeep Yadav. On Sunday, after another match-winning performance in the opening T20 International against the West Indies, he acknowledged familiarity as a "massive" factor. "I've been with Kolkata Knight Riders for five years, and have played a lot of games here. I know the ground, I know the conditions. It gives you a massive advantage," said the chinaman bowler after snaring three wickets for 13 runs in his four overs. Kuldeep, later adjudged Man of the Match, said he knew that the ball would grip but not turn too much, but was quick to add that it was not just about the nature of the wicket. "You know the outfield, the angles… it gives you a lot of confidence." The last time Team India were here, a little more than a year ago, Kuldeep claimed a hat-trick against Australia to become only the third Indian to achieve the feat in an ODI. Kuldeep, 23, felt that the familiarity factor worked for Dinesh Karthik too. T..
                 

Champions League: It's a worry if Messi plays, says Inter Milan boss

10 days ago  
News / Mid-Day/ Sports  
Lionel Messi is the icing on Barcelona's cake, Inter Milan coach Luciano Spalletti said yesterday on the eve of the Champions League game between the two teams. Messi could make an earlier return than expected against Inter Milan in the San Siro today after breaking his arm on October 20, but the Catalans have shown some of their strongest form in his absence. "Messi is the icing on the cake. His is the shirt that children who dream of being footballers ask for," said Spalletti. "But Barcelona have shown that even without him, they still have the mentality to develop their game, which is what makes the difference. "It's a worry for anyone if Messi plays, but the attitude doesn't change. We're facing one of the strongest clubs in the world in any case. We need to be better in our reading of the game, but we're going to mark space, not men." Inter Milan coach Luciano Spalletti Barcelona are top of Group B with maximum points from three games ahead of Inter Milan who lost 2-0 in Spain...
                 

Thank God for his birth: Anushka gets emotional on Virat's 30th bday

10 days ago  
News / Mid-Day/ Sports  
New Delhi: Virat Kohli turned 30 yesterday at the country's Devbhoomi and the cricket community celebrated its festival of festivals with gusto, showering accolades while wishing the man who is fast attaining the status of a deity. A batsman par excellence with a plethora of records to his name, Kohli is spending his birthday with wife Anushka Sharma in Haridwar. It began with the legendary Sachin Tendulkar as accolades and wishes poured in thick and fast as the Indian captain entered the 30s. "Wishing you a lot of success and happiness in the year ahead. Happy Birthday, @imVkohli!," Tendulkar wrote on his twitter handle. Wishing you a lot of success and happiness in the year ahead. Happy Birthday, @imvkohli! pic.twitter.com/HcXX88rXJn — Sachin Tendulkar (@sachin_rt) 5 November 2018 Kohli's better half, Anushka posted this picture (left) and said: "Thank God for his birth." Thank God for his birth 😁🙏â..
                 

2nd T20I: Rohit Sharma and Co eye series win in Lucknow!

10 days ago  
News / Mid-Day/ Sports  
The Indian top-order had failed to fire against the spirited West Indies pace bowling in the first T20I match in Kolkata on Sunday night. The raw pace of Oshane Thomas and skipper Carlos Brathwaite tested even a batsman of the calibre of Rohit Sharma. With Shikhar Dhawan, KL Rahul and Rishabh Pant also unable to get going, India were lucky to scrape though as West Indies had managed a paltry total. Maiden match at EkanaThough the pitch at the Ekana Stadium, which is hosting its first international fixture today, is unlikely to be as bouncy as the Eden wicket on Sunday night, the West Indies would be eager to get their act together in the second T20I and go into the decider at Chennai on an even keel. The West Indies have only shown glimpses of fighting qualities on the tour. They have not been able to siege crucial moments and allowed India to get away. That's because when their batting has come good, the bowling has been a letdown and when bowling has done well, the batsmen have flop..
                 

Record-setting Azam leads Pakistan to another T20 series whitewash

10 days ago  
News / Mid-Day/ Sports  
Babar Azam became the quickest batsman to reach 1,000 Twenty20 runs as Pakistan whitewashed New Zealand 3-0 with a comfortable 47-run win in the third and final match in Dubai on Sunday. The 24-year-old -- ranked number one in Twenty20s -- hit a punishing 58-ball 79 with seven boundaries and two sixes while Mohammad Hafeez hit a 34-ball 53 not out with two sixes and four boundaries to lift Pakistan to 166-3 at Dubai stadium. Pakistan spinners Shadab Khan (3-30) and Imad Wasim (2-28) then hastened New Zealand's demise to 119 all out in 16.5 overs as the Kiwis lost their last eight wickets for just 23 runs. This also becomes Pakistan's second series whitewash after romping past Australia 3-0 last Sunday. Kane Williamson top-scored for New Zealand with a 38-ball 60, with eight boundaries and two sixes, while opener Glenn Phillips made 26. Azam, when on 48, completed 1,000 runs in Twenty20 internationals in just 26 innings, bettering India's Virat Kohli's record of reaching the mark in ..
                 

Germany's Merkel: I can work well with any party successor

10 days ago  
News / Mid-Day/ Tennis  
German Chancellor Angela Merkel insisted Monday that she can work well with any potential successor as leader of her party, including a one-time rival seeking a comeback after a decade-long absence. Merkel also stressed that her centre-right Christian Democratic Union is committed to its troubled coalition with the centre-left Social Democrats. Merkel announced a week ago that she plans to give up the CDU leadership after 18 years but remain as Germany's chancellor. There are three high-profile candidates to succeed her: CDU general secretary Annegret Kramp-Karrenbauer, who is the closest to Merkel's centrist approach; and two contenders who stand for a more conservative profile, former parliamentary leader Friedrich Merz and Health Minister Jens Spahn. Germany's chancellor of the past 13 years has said she is ready to continue in that job for the rest of the parliamentary term, which is supposed to last until 2021. Pressed Monday on whether she really wants to do that, she replied: "..
                 

Novak Djokovic top of the world after completing remarkable turnaround

10 days ago  
News / Mid-Day/ Tennis  
Novak Djokovic's return to the world number one spot, just five months after slumping to his lowest ranking in 12 years, leaves little doubt that he is one of the sport's greats. The Serb is back on the top of the pile for the first time in two years, at the end of a roller-coaster season for the 14-time major winner. Djokovic, 31, underwent elbow surgery in January and slipped to 22nd in the world after a depressing quarter-final exit at Roland Garros in June, which left him briefly threatening to skip Wimbledon. But he regrouped, romped to a fourth Wimbledon title the following month, a 32nd Masters in Cincinnati and then a third triumph at the US Open in September. Despite his loss in the final of the Paris Masters to Karen Khachanov on Sunday -- which ended a 22-match win streak -- his record since the start of Wimbledon stands at 31-2. "Reflecting on what I've been through in the last year, it's quite a phenomenal achievement," said Djokovic, who has knocked Rafael Nadal from t..
                 

Monaco denies accusations of breaking Financial Fair Play rules

10 days ago  
News / Mid-Day/ Football  
Monaco have denied claims that they tried to bypass UEFA's Financial Fair Play (FFP) rules by agreeing to enter a partnership to generate revenues from an offshore firm registered in Hong Kong. Documents released on Monday by French investigative website Mediapart, part of the Football Leaks investigation, also indicated that European football's governing body was prepared to overlook the deal in 2014 to avoid Monaco being harshly punished. Monaco said in a statement: "The club firmly denies having bypassed Financial Fair Play through a contract with a marketing agency, contrary to false claims published by French and European media." Monaco qualified for the Champions League in 2014 after finishing second in Ligue 1, and were looking for new revenue streams that would enable them to comply with FFP. UEFA rules say clubs cannot spend more than they earn in any given season and deficits must fall within a 30-million-euro ($34 million) limit over three seasons. Finding income from else..
                 

Divyansh Singh Panwar wins silver

10 days ago  
News / Mid-Day/ Other sports  
India's junior shooters Divyansh Singh Panwar and Elavenil Valarivan won the silver and bronze medals in their respective air rifle events of the 11th Asian Shooting Championship here Tuesday. Divyansh shot 251.4 in the final of 10m air rifle junior men's event to finish behind gold medallist Wang Yuefeng of China, who shot a junior world and Asian record score of 252.3 to emerge triumphant. Elavenil shot 227.9 in the 10m air rifle junior women's event to claim a bronze. The competition saw a 1-2 finish by Chinese shooters with Shi Mengyao winning gold with an effort of 250.3 while compatriot Xu Hong won silver with a final score of 249.3. Both events saw three Indians qualify for the eight-woman final round. In the junior men's competition, besides Divyansh, Arjun Babuta and Hriday Hazarika made it to the final to finish fifth and sixth respectively. In the women's event, Shreya Agrawal and Mehuli Ghosh also entered the finals along with Elavenil to finish sixth and seventh respecti..
                 

1st T20I: Hopefully we can learn from these mistakes, says Rohit Sharma

11 days ago  
News / Mid-Day/ Sports  
Skipper Rohit Sharma hoped they will learn from the mistakes which put India in a spot of the bother before crossing the line in the first T20 International against West Indies here Sunday. Chasing 110, India were struggling at 45 for four in the eighth over when Dinesh Karthik took control of the proceedings at the Eden Gardens. First in the company of KL Rahul and then debutant Krunal Pandya (21 of 9 balls), Karthik helped the hosts break a four-match winless run. "(We) knew the chase wasn't going to be easy. Hopefully we can learn from these mistakes," Sharma said at the post-match presentation ceremony. India prevailed over the visitors by five wickets to take a 1-0 lead in the three-match series. "Exceptional performance with the ball. There was a lot on offer for the seamers. Even with spinners, it wasn't easy. Overall there was little bit for every department. To start with, we bowled well - good areas. Used the conditions perfectly," Sharma said. Wrist spinner Kuldeep Yadav ..
                 

Maria Sharapova fails at a game of touch

11 days ago  
News / Mid-Day/ Sports  
It may be nerve-wracking to play in a Grand Slam for Russian tennis beauty Maria Sharapova. But it was equally challenging for her to try her hand at the game of touch. A racquet firm had Sharapova play a mega version of a game of touch (screen grab left) resembling Operation, with the added task of simultaneously answering questions about herself. Despite trying hard, she failed and in the end, gave up altogether. In her answers, Sharapova did reveal some of her likes and dislikes. For example, she hates Twitter and receiving voicemails, but she likes art, Instagram and wearing masks. She recently retweeted the video of her failed attempt of playing the game and wrote: “I would prefer to never have to do that again.” Catch up on all the latest sports news and updates here. Also download the new mid-day Android and iOS apps to get latest updates..
                 

IND vs WI: Gastric problem rules out Bhuvneshwar Kumar at Eden Gardens

11 days ago  
News / Mid-Day/ Sports  
Bhuvneshwar Kumar was yesterday forced to pull out of the first T20I against the West Indies here at the Eden Gardens due to a gastric problem. Bhuvneshwar was named in the 12-member team released on the eve of the match, but his unavailability forced India to make a last-minute change. Bhuvneshwar stayed back at the hotel. He is expected to be available for the second T20I in Lucknow on November 6. "Bhuvneshwar Kumar has a gastric complaint and is expected to be fit for the second T20I in Lucknow," the BCCI media manager said. Pacer Umesh Yadav took Bhuvneshwar's place in the playing XI while chinaman Kuldeep Yadav was picked ahead of leggie Yuzvendra Chahal. India also handed debuts to left-arm spin-bowling all-rounder Krunal Pandya and left-arm quick Khaleel Ahmed. West Indies — had three debutants — fast bowler Oshane Thomas, left-arm spin-bowling all-rounder Khary Pierre, and batting all-rounder Fabian Allen. Catch up on all the latest T20 news and updates here. Al..
                 

Happy Birthday Virat Kohli: The king of the chase

11 days ago  
News / Mid-Day/ Sports  
Virat Kohli is perhaps the best match-winner while chasing in ODIs, the world has ever seen. A big number of Virat Kohli's ODI tons have come while successfully chasing down a total. We bring you 11 of those accolade worthy three-figures on the Team India captain's 30th birthday. Virat Kohli 122 vs England After England posted a mammoth total of 350 runs, India were in trouble at 63/4, but a double-century stand between Virat Kohli and Kedar Jadhav saw India chase their second highest total in ODI history. Virat Kohli scored his 27th ODI ton and Jadhav posted his career best individual score. Virat Kohli 154* vs New Zealand India had a task cut out for them as Kiwis posted 285 on board for the hosts to chase thanks to Tom Latham and James Neesham. The hosts were further in a soup following the loss of their openers Rohit Sharma and Ajinkya Rahane at 41 runs. Kohli went on to play a heroic innings. He built on a steady partnership with skipper MS Dhoni to come closer to the tar..