Sports

Global Indian Pravasi Kabaddi League Reveals Championship Trophy

Published

9 months ago

March 25, 2025

The eagerly awaited Global Indian Pravasi Kabaddi League (GI-PKL) showcased its Championship Trophy during a ceremony held on Sunday. The league is set to kick off on April 18 in Gurugram and has already attracted significant global interest, featuring teams from countries such as Egypt, Kenya, Argentina, Germany, England, Norway, and Poland.

The trophy was unveiled by special guest D. Suresh, IAS, Principal Secretary of Industries & Commerce for the Government of Haryana, along with Deepak Hooda, the former captain of the Indian kabaddi team, and Kanthi D. Suresh, president of the Holistic International Pravasi Sports Association (HIPSA).

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During the launch event, D. Suresh emphasized, “Kabaddi is a vital part of India’s sporting legacy, and it’s encouraging to witness the emergence of a global platform like the GI-PKL in Haryana. This initiative will not only spotlight international athletes but also enhance kabaddi’s status as a prospective Olympic sport.”

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While there will be winners for both men’s and women’s teams, only one will have the honor of lifting the grand Championship Trophy.

Deepak Hooda shared his thoughts, saying, “This league will provide an excellent platform for emerging athletes. Kabaddi is a sport that thrives in rural areas and is played across the nation. I have full confidence that our players will elevate this league and the sport to new heights.”

HIPSA, the league’s governing body, has announced six teams for women and their male counterparts, with team names that represent their regional identities.

Women’s Teams: Marathi Falcons, Bhojpuri Leopardess, Telugu Cheetahs, Tamil Lioness, Punjabi Tigress, and Haryanvi Eagles.

Men’s Teams: Marathi Vultures, Bhojpuri Leopards, Telugu Panthers, Tamil Lions, Punjabi Tigers, and Haryanvi Sharks.

Earlier this year, the GI-PKL introduced the captains of all franchises. Shiv Prashad will captain the Bhojpuri Leopards, while Vikash Dahiya will lead the Haryanvi Sharks. The Marathi Vultures and Punjabi Tigers have appointed Kapil Narwal and Sawin Narwal as their respective captains. Sunil Narwal has been named captain of the Tamil Lions, and Sandeep Kandola will steer the Telugu Panthers.

Pushpa Rana will captain the Haryanvi Eagles, and Meena Kadyan will lead the Bhojpuri Leopardess. The Marathi Falcons and Punjabi Tigress will be led by Tanu Sharma and Meera, respectively, while Julie Bhati will captain the Telugu Cheetahs, with Suman at the helm of the Tamil Lioness.

In March 2024, HIPSA successfully included Kabaddi in the Guinness World Records at an event held at Panchkula’s Tau Devilal Stadium, which was attended by Haryana’s Governor, Shree Bandaru Dattatreya.

The inaugural season of the GI-PKL, comprising 12 teams, will be broadcast live on the Sony Sports Network.

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Sports

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

Published

3 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

1 month 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.