Sports

Embracing My Inner Child: Sharath Kamal Reflects on His Journey with Young Paddlers

Published

9 months ago

March 25, 2025

Earlier this month, Indian table tennis sensation Sharath Kamal made headlines by announcing his retirement from international competition.

Younger competitors at the Dream Sports Championship U-15 table tennis tournament held in Chennai had the unique opportunity to meet their idol and participate in a masterclass led by the 7-time Commonwealth Gold medalist, who shared insights from his remarkable journey.

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“I was able to share my struggles from my school days, which is something that resonates with the kids, coaches, and parents alike. I enjoyed a great session filled with diverse questions, and with young athletes from various backgrounds present, we tackled different challenges. Having competed globally, I understand that each country has its own systems and hurdles,” the 34-year-old remarked during the tournament final at the Jawaharlal Nehru Indoor Stadium.

Sharath commended the tournament organizers for their vision in creating an event of this magnitude and highlighted its potential to foster talent and enhance scouting efforts.

“Scouting has become significantly easier with events like these. We get to observe the children’s skills, connect with them better, and support their development throughout the year. This is the first tournament of this nature that I’ve witnessed, and the concept is outstanding. I hope we can continue to grow and expand upon this in the future,” he stated, reflecting on the importance of such initiatives.

As he prepares for his last professional appearance at the WTT Star Contender in Chennai, Sharath expressed a nostalgic desire to be 15 again, wishing to have the opportunities that tournaments like the Dream Sports Championship U-15 offer.

“I wish I could be 15 again and participate in a tournament like this to kickstart my career. The youthful spirit within me is still eager to help young talent. I see many pieces of the puzzle coming together here, and all we need to do is connect them,” he added.

In the tournament results, 15-year-old Sahil Rawat from Chandigarh triumphed over Jammu & Kashmir’s Ritvik Gupta in a thrilling seven-set match to secure the title in the Boys category. Meanwhile, Mumbai’s Divyanshi Bhowmick delivered a commanding performance, winning 11-5, 11-6, 11-8, 11-7 against West Bengal’s Shreya Dhar to claim victory in the Girls’ category.

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Sports

Historic Test Debut in Guwahati as South Africa Reach 247/6 on Day 1

Published

2 weeks ago

November 23, 2025

Namma Kudla

On the first day of the second Test between India and South Africa at Barsapara Stadium, South Africa made a strong start, reaching 247 for 6 at stumps.The venue, Barsapara Cricket Stadium, hosted its very first Test match in history — making the day special for Guwahati and cricket in Assam.

South African skipper Temba Bavuma won the toss and chose to bat first.Their openers, Aiden Markram (38) and Ryan Rickelton (35), gave a solid start with a partnership of 82 runs.Later, Tristan Stubbs added 49 before getting out, while Bavuma made 41.

India fought back well thanks to a strong performance by spinner Kuldeep Yadav. He picked up 3 wickets and gave away only 48 runs in 17 overs.Ravindra Jadeja also chipped in with an important wicket, dismissing Bavuma. In the final over before stumps, Mohammed Siraj struck, getting Tony de Zorzi out.At the end of play, Senuran Muthusamy was unbeaten on 25, and Kyle Verreynne was 1 not out.

The light became a concern late in the day. As visibility dropped, play was stopped, and light issues forced the umpires to call it a day early.Overall, India ended Day 1 with a degree of satisfaction. The bowling attack showed discipline, especially through their spinners, and they managed to check the South African momentum.

Sports

India A Post 297/4 as Vaibhav Suryavanshi Smashes 144 Off 42 Balls

Published

4 weeks ago

November 14, 2025

Namma Kudla

India A began their Asia Cup Rising Stars 2025 campaign with a huge total against the UAE in Doha. Captain Jitesh Sharma won the toss and chose to bat first. Vaibhav Suryavanshi then produced a stunning innings. He scored 144 runs from just 42 balls. His knock included 11 fours and 15 sixes.

Suryavanshi reached his fifty in 17 balls. He completed his century in only 32 balls. He added 163 runs for the second wicket with Naman Dhir, who made 34. Jitesh Sharma also played a quick innings and scored a fast fifty.

India A finished at 297 for 4 in 20 overs. The team now holds a strong position in the match.

Sports

Sri Lankan Players Express Security Fears in Pakistan, Board Urges Them to Stay

Published

4 weeks ago

November 13, 2025

Namma Kudla

Some Sri Lankan cricketers in Pakistan have asked to return home after a bomb blast in Islamabad killed 12 people on Wednesday. The team is currently playing a three-match ODI series in Rawalpindi, which is close to Islamabad.

Sri Lanka Cricket (SLC) said in a statement that it had spoken to the players and assured them of their safety. The board is working with the Pakistan Cricket Board (PCB) and local authorities to ensure full security.

SLC has directed all players and staff to continue the tour. It warned that if anyone still chooses to return, replacements will be sent and a review will be held later.

Pakistan and Sri Lanka are also set to play a T20I tri-series with Zimbabwe from November 17 to 29 in Rawalpindi and Lahore. PCB chief and Pakistan’s Interior Minister Mohsin Naqvi is overseeing the security arrangements for all three teams.