Sports

India Secures Historic 3-0 Victory Against Maldives in Shillong Friendly

Published

9 months ago

March 20, 2025

In an impressive display of football talent, the Indian senior men’s football team triumphed over the Maldives with a convincing 3-0 scoreline during an international friendly match on Wednesday.

The game took place at the newly renovated Jawaharlal Nehru Stadium in Shillong, marking the first international encounter for senior men’s teams at the 15,000-seater venue since its refurbishment last year.

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Having hosted numerous prestigious domestic events like the Durand Cup, Indian Super League (ISL), and the I-League, the stadium saw a remarkable performance as India showcased aggressive tactics and effective teamwork throughout the match.

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In the 34th minute, defender Rahul Bheke opened the scoring by deftly heading in a beautifully placed corner from midfielder Brandon Fernandes, giving India an early 1-0 advantage and energizing the enthusiastic home crowd.

Forward Liston Colaco extended India’s lead in the 66th minute with another well-timed header, demonstrating the team’s ability to capitalize on set-pieces. Known for his speed and finishing skills, Colaco made it look easy as he found the back of the net.

Veteran striker Sunil Chhetri then added the finishing touch in the 77th minute, marking his return to the national team after a brief hiatus by netting his 95th international goal. Chhetri showcased his expertise by collecting a through ball and coolly placing it past the Maldives’ goalkeeper, finalizing the score at 3-0.

This match also represented the first victory for head coach Manolo Marquez since he took the reins of the national team. Marquez, who previously led FC Goa in the Durand Cup, expressed his satisfaction with the team’s performance and his appreciation for Shillong’s vibrant football culture.

“It’s a proud moment to see the national team perform here. The atmosphere is electric, and the fans truly deserve this win,” Marquez stated during the post-match press conference.

He further commended the city’s football passion, recalling his positive experiences managing FC Goa during the Durand Cup last year. “I always believed this place had the potential to host an international match. The fans here are incredible, and the city boasts a rich footballing heritage,” he added.

With their spirits lifted, the Indian team is now preparing for their next challenge against Bangladesh in the AFC Asian Cup Saudi Arabia 2027 Qualifiers, set for March 25 at the same stadium. This victory over the Maldives serves as a valuable morale boost ahead of the pivotal qualifier.

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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.