Category: sports

IndusInd Bank felicitates Indian Women’s Blind Cricket Team for historic win at the Women’s T20 World Cup

Chandigarh, Dec 18: IndusInd Bank today, hosted a special felicitation ceremony to honor the Indian Women’s Blind Cricket Team for their historic triumph at the inaugural Women’s T20 Cricket World Cup for the Blind.

The Bank, in collaboration with the Cricket Association for the Blind in India (CABI), the cricketing arm and initiative of the Samarthanam Trust for the Disabled has been supporting the Indian Blind Cricket Team and over 700 blind cricketers, both men and women under its CSR initiative.

The felicitation ceremony celebrated the team’s landmark victory and was graced by the Bank’s Managing Director & CEO, Mr. Rajiv Anand, along with Dr. Mahantesh Kivadasannavar, Chairman, CABI & Founder Managing Trustee, Samarthanam Trust for the Disabled, and senior officials of the Bank. As a token of appreciation, IndusInd Bank presented the team with a cash reward in recognition of their historic achievement and contribution to the sport.

Speaking on the occasion, Mr. Rajiv Anand, Managing Director & CEO, IndusInd Bank said, “This historic World Cup win by the Indian Women’s Blind Cricket Team marks a defining moment for inclusive sports in India. At IndusInd Bank, we are proud to celebrate this achievement and extend our compliments to the team. Through our partnership with CABI, we remain steadfast in our mission to build a robust, inclusive ecosystem that empowers individuals to excel and lead with confidence.”

Dr. Mahantesh Kivadasannavar, Chairman, CABI & Founder Managing Trustee, Samarthanam Trust for the Disabled said “The Cricket Association for the Blind in India and Samarthanam Trust for the Disabled take immense pride in our decade-long partnership with IndusInd Bank. Together, we have not only promoted cricket for the blind but transformed it, building public awareness, securing recognition for our players, and opening doors to government jobs and cash awards. The rise of blind cricket to where it stands today has been made possible by the unwavering support of IndusInd Bank, and for that, we remain deeply grateful.”

IndusInd Bank supports the Indian Blind Cricket Team under its CSR programme, ‘IndusInd Bank Cricket for Blind.’ Run in collaboration with CABI, the programme provides comprehensive support including, training, nutritional guidance, counselling, equipment, financial assistance, and accommodation during matches, along with awareness-building events to promote sports for the visually impaired. These efforts have enabled players from both, district, and state levels to achieve remarkable international success in tournaments across formats.

Iconik Sports & Events World Tennis League’s India Debut to be Broadcast in Over 100 Countries

Bengaluru, December 16: Iconik Sports & Events presents World Tennis League, powered by SpiceJet, will be broadcasted to fans in India and 100 countries around the world. WTL’s India debut, taking place from December 17-20 at Bengaluru’s S.M. Krishna Tennis Stadium, will be broadcast live on Sony Sports Network, the league’s official broadcast partner. Additionally, FanCode will serve as the league’s official digital streaming partner, meaning millions of fans in India will have the flexibility to catch the action live or on-demand across mobile, web, and connected devices.

The league will enjoy extensive global coverage across key regions including America, Europe, Asia, Indian Subcontinent, MENA, Sub-Saharan Africa, Russia, and rest of the world through broadcasters such as Tennis Channel, Sony Sports Network, Bolshe, FanCode, Canal+, SuperTennis Italy, OnTime Sports, StarTimes, Styx Sports and others.

With its first edition in India, the World Tennis League will continue to elevate the fan experience with four days of high-intensity tennis. This edition will feature Game Changers Falcons, VB Realty Hawks, Aussie Mavericks Kites, and AOS Eagles, each showcasing a unique blend of top international and Indian tennis players. Fans can look forward to watching marquee names like Daniil Medvedev, Nick Kyrgios, Gael Monfils, Denis Shapovalov, and Elina Svitlona competing alongside India’s best such as Rohan Bopanna, Sumit Nagal, Yuki Bhambri, Sahaja Yamalapalli and other rising stars.

Speaking on the lineup, Hemali Sharma, Co-Founder, World Tennis League said, “We are incredibly excited to welcome Sony Sports Network and FanCode as our exclusive broadcast and digital streaming partners for our first-ever edition in India. With WTL’s courtside action reaching fans in over 100 countries, this season will significantly boost the league’s global footprint. Tennis in India is experiencing a remarkable surge and we are committed to bringing world-class players, electrifying matches, and memorable moments to fans everywhere.”

Prasana Krishnan, Co-Founder, FanCode said, “We’re excited to deliver the World Tennis League to Indian audiences. This edition gives Indian fans a chance to witness global stars like Medvedev, Kyrgios, Monfils, Badosa, Svitolina up close. As we aim to take the league to fans across the country, its quick, dynamic format and elite talent make it the perfect way for both loyal tennis followers and new fans to experience the sport.”

As Bengaluru welcomes top players from around the world, WTL is set to showcase exceptional talent and sporting spirit for fans watching in the stadium or from home. Tune in from December 17 to witness the sport’s biggest names light up Bengaluru as ‘The Greatest Show on Court!’ brings its most exciting season yet.

Fans eager to witness the action live from SM Krishna Tennis Stadium in Bengaluru can book the tickets on the BookMyShow app and website.

4TR Esports organizes first-ever Winter Premier League 2025, Welt Esports, Genesis Esports & Team Roman make podium finish

India, Dec 15: 4TR Esports, a powerhouse in India’s competitive BGMI scene, today announced the completion of its first–ever Winter Premier League 2025, a tier-1 competitive BGMI Battle Royale tournament. Welt Esports was crowned champions in the tournament, while Genesis Esports and Team Roman were placed in the first and second runner-up positions, respectively. The tournament marks the first milestone achieved for 4TR Esports as it was the first ever event series on YouTube, and the team plans for more performance landmarks in the future.

Shrachi Sports Inaugurates the First Edition of the Bengal Super League

Malda, Dec 15th: Shrachi Sports formally inaugurated the first edition of the Bengal Super League (BSL) at the District Sports Association Stadium in Malda, marking the beginning of a new district-focused football competition in West Bengal.

The inauguration ceremony included a musical performance by Ms Doyel Goswami, Top 8 Finalist, Zee Bangla Sa Re Ga Ma Pa 2012 and Finalist, Colours Bangla Gurukul 2015, ahead of the league’s opening fixture.

The inauguration was attended by senior officials from the Indian Football Association, including Mr Ajit Banerjee, President and Mr Anirban Dutta, Secretary. Also present were the team owners of the opening fixture – JHR Royal City Malda|Murshidabad FC, represented by Mr Abdul Halim, Mr Mohammed Halim, Mr Mohammed Wasim and Mr Asif Ahmed, and Northbengal United FC, represented by Mr Rahul Chakraborty and Mr Narayan Vijan. Shrachi Sports was represented by Mr Tamal Ghosal, Chairman, Mr Rahul Todi, Managing Director and Mr Ayan Banerjee, Chief Executive Officer, who have been closely involved in the planning and execution of the league. Indian Football Legend Bhaskar Ganguly was also present.

“The Bengal Super League has been envisioned as a platform to strengthen grassroots football and provide structured opportunities for local talent. Our objective has been to build a league that supports player development while bringing communities together through football. The response from Malda and across the state reinforces the relevance of such an initiative,” said Mr Rahul Todi, Managing Director, Shrachi Sports.

“The inauguration of the Bengal Super League marks an important step in the development of football in West Bengal. Beyond competition, the league contributes to building a sustainable ecosystem that strengthens district-level football and supports the growth of young talent. The response in Malda reflects the depth of footballing potential that exists across the state,” said Mr Ajit Banerjee, President, Indian Football Association.

“The Bengal Super League gives districts like Malda and Murshidabad a clear platform within the state’s football structure. For us, the league is focused on creating opportunities for local players, strengthening grassroots pathways and building sustained engagement with supporters. It is an important step in integrating district-level teams into a professional league framework,” said Mr Mohammed Wasim, Owner, JHR Royal City Malda|Murshidabad FC.

“Participation in the Bengal Super League provides players from North Bengal with access to an organised and competitive football platform from its very first season. It allows regional talent to compete at a professional level and gain wider exposure. We see this league as a structured pathway for player development and long-term growth of football in the region,” said Mr Narayan Vijan, Owner, Northbengal United FC.

Following the inauguration, the Bengal Super League kicked off with its opening fixture between JHR Royal City Malda | Murshidabad FC and Northbengal United FC, officially ushering in the league’s inaugural season with a strong emphasis on district-level representation and player development across Bengal. The match witnessed an attendance of 3,472 spectators and concluded with a 3–1 victory for JHR Royal City Malda | Murshidabad FC with Robi Hansda, No. 9, Forward, JHR Royal City Malda | Murshidabad, receiving the Man of the Match. The goals came in the 26th minute through JHR Royal City Malda | Murshidabad, No. 7, João Vítor de Paula Morais, Forward, while Robi Hansda, No. 9, Forward, JHR Royal City Malda | Murshidabad, scored a brace, finding the net in the 31st minute and again in added time at the end of the 90 minutes. while Northbengal United FC’s lone goal resulted from an own goal by the JHR Royal City Malda | Murshidabad FC goalkeeper in the 51st minute. As per Bengal Super League regulations, the match was followed by a penalty shootout, a unique feature that will take place after every BSL fixture.

The Bengal Super League builds on Bengal’s long-standing football culture by bringing together communities, players and supporters through a structured league format, while setting the foundation for the future growth of the sport in the state.

Launched in July, 2025, BSL is licensed by the Indian Football Association (IFA) and features 8 franchise teams representing district clusters. Matches will be hosted across 8 district venues, bringing professional football to regions beyond Kolkata and offering local players a platform to gain recognition and experience. The league aims to create excitement around district-level football, inspire local communities and uncover the hidden talent of Bengal, while strengthening the professional football ecosystem in the state.

The Bengal Super League will feature some of the state’s most dynamic and competitive teams, each representing the rich footballing spirit of their respective regions. Among the participating clubs are Sundarban Bengal Auto FC, North 24 Parganas FC, Howrah-Hooghly Warriors, FC Medinipur, Burdwan Blasters, Kopa Tigers Birbhum, JHR Royal City FC Malda|Murshidabad and Northbengal United FC.

Shrachi Sports has partnered with Zee Bangla Sonar and ZEE5 as the league’s Official Broadcast and Streaming Partners, ensuring that football fans can experience the excitement of the BSL LIVE, both on television and digital platforms.

AMF trained para Air rifle shooters of India shine at 6th National Para Shooting Championship 2025

Hyderabad, Dec 10: The Aditya Mehta Foundation (AMF) proudly announces an impressive 2 Gold and 4 Silver medal performance at the 6th National Para Shooting Championship 2025, held at the Dr. Karni Singh Shooting Range, New Delhi.

Competing as junior athletes in senior categories also, both shooters displayed exceptional maturity, courage, and precision—an achievement that marks them as emerging forces in India’s para shooting circuit.

Banoth Pavani (18 years – Telangana)

Pavani, the youngest Para-Air rifle shooter from Telangana to stand on the national stage this year, showcased outstanding grit and promise by securing three Silver medals, even while competing with seniors.

Medals:

• Silver – 10mAirRifle Standing (Junior)
• Silver – 10mAirRifle Standing (Mixed – Junior)
• Silver – 10mAirRifle Standing (Mixed)

Khushbu (15 years – Uttar Pradesh)

Khushbu delivered a commanding performance with two Gold medals and one Silver, demonstrating remarkable consistency despite competing against senior athletes.

Medals:

• Gold –10mAirRifle Standing (Junior)
• Gold – 10mAirRifle Standing (Junior Mixed)
• Silver – 10mAirRifle Standing (Mixed)

Both athletes are rapidly rising talents in para sports air rifle shooting and are currently preparing for major international events including the Asian Games, Commonwealth Games, and the 2028 Paralympics. Their early success at such a young age reflects their strong future in Para Sports – Air Rifle Shooting.

AMF extends heartfelt gratitude to Invesco, Alcon, and GMMCO for supporting the team, and to Flutter Entertainment India for supporting above 18y para-athletes of AMF.

23,000plus runners along with Double Olympic & Triple World Champion Joshua Cheptegei to Headline Tata Steel World 25K Kolkata; Sutume Kebede Returns to Defend Her Title

Chandigarh, Dec 10: Promoted by Procam International, the landmark 10^th edition of Tata Steel World 25K Kolkata 2025 will witness 23,000+ runners from across the world come together to celebrate the spirit of running. This overwhelming response with registrations oversubscribed across all categories marks yet another unforgettable chapter in the city of joy sporting legacy #ADecadeOfDifference.

Uganda’s two-time Olympic champion and three-time World Champion Joshua Cheptegei and women’s defending champion Sutume Asefa Kebede will race to better world standings in this year’s Tata Steel World 25K, Kolkata, the first World Athletics Gold Label Road Race, to be held here on Sunday, 21^st December.

In a significant move inspired by Kolkata’s historically fast timings, Procam International, announced a USD 25,000 bonus for any athlete who shatters the world record of 1:11:08.

The landmark 10^th edition will witness some of the world’s best athletes take centre stage at the US$142,214 prize money race. With equal prize money for the men’s and women’s winners, the top three winners each stand to win $15000, $10000, and $7000, respectively. The runners will be further incentivised by an Event Record Bonus of US $5,000.

Cheptegei (29), won three consecutive World titles in 10,000m, had four world records to his credit, including the 5K and 10K on roads. A winner of last year’s Vedanta Delhi Half Marathon and this year’s TCS World 10K at Bengaluru; the Ugandan whose 5000 and 10000 World Records still stands, revealed his interest in making a debut at 25K in Kolkata.

The last ten years have truly been #ADecadeOfDifference for the Tata Steel World 25K, reflected in the growing depth of elite participation each year as well as the consistently fast timings and results. Just two years ago, Kolkata witnessed stand-alone world records in the 25K, set by Kenya’s Daniel Simiu Ebenyo (1:11:13) and Ethiopia’s Sutume Asefa Kebede (1:18:47), winners of the men’s and women’s races, respectively.

Another important entrant in the men’s list will be Alphonce Felix Simbu from Tanzania. Simbu, who made a thrilling victory in the World Championships Marathon in Tokyo this September, as he snatched the gold from Germany’s Amanal Petros at the post, where only three-hundredths of a second separated the two, is all set to give Cheptegei a run for his money at Kolkata.

There are two more important names from the African continent popping up among the men’s rosters.  Ethiopian Haymanot Alew, who narrowly missed the podium in Kolkata during the epic 2023 race but went on to take  a blazing third-place finish in the 2024 Berlin Marathon clocking a marvellous 2:03:31, will join hands with Lesotho’s Tebello Ramakongoana, a runner-up in Xianmen Marathon earlier this year, to make this year’s contest worth watching.

“India is one of my favourite destinations.  I want to give my best in my maiden venture in Kolkata”, said Cheptegei.

Asefa is coming back:

Ethiopian star Sutume Asefa Kebede, who first set the world record for 25K in 2015 at Berlin and conquered the Kolkata roads with yet another record time in 2023, is all set to come back for a hat-trick here.

Her teammate and the 2017 winner in Kolkata, Degitu Azimeraw, is ready to topple her at the top of the table this time.

Kebede won the Tokyo Marathon earlier this year from a strong field of more than 175 runners.  However, during the World Championships at the same venue, she had a disappointing outing, finishing 27th.  The Ethiopian  now needs to prove her critics wrong with a winning note to end her season in Kolkata, which will surely boost her morale.

“I am thrilled to make my third appearance in Kolkata.  With an exciting field to challenge me this time, I will be expecting to improve my timings this year opined Kebede.

The Tata Steel World 25K Kolkata celebrates its milestone 10^th edition this year. With participation and enthusiasm growing stronger each season, and with world-class athletes such as Joshua Cheptegei and Alphonce Felix Simbu headlining the elite field, Kolkata is poised for an exciting and fast race later this month,” said Vivek Singh, Joint Managing Director, Procam International, promoters of the race.

Elite Field for the Tata Steel World 25K Kolkata 2025

Elite Field for the Tata Steel World 25K Kolkata 2025

MEN

1. JoshuaCheptegei (UGA/1996) (HM PB 59:21)
2. Alphonce Felix Simbu (TAN/1992) (HM PB 60.03)
3. Haymanot Alew (ETH/1997) (HM PB 60:26)
4. Tebello Ramakonga (LES/1996) (HM PB 60:17)
5. Collins Kipkorir (KEN/2001) (HM PB 60:23)
6. Debebe Teka (ETH/1998) (HM PB 61:37)
7. Tamru Shifera (ETH/1998) (HM PB 60:47)
8. Reuben Rono (KEN/2000) (HM PB 62:05)
9. Fikadu Liche (ETH/2004) (HM PB 60:34)
10. Anthony Kipchirchir (KEN/2001) (HM PB 62:02)
11. Wisley Yego (KEN/1997) (HM PB 60:32)
12. Stephen Kimutai (KEN/1994) (HM PB 61:32)
13. Niguse Abera (ETH/2006)

WOMEN

1. SutumeAsefa Kebede (ETH/1994) (25KM PB 1:18:47)
2. Degitu Azimeraw (ETH/1999) (25KM PB 1:22:20)
3. Agnes Keino (KEN/1988) (HM PB 68:47)
4. Demilew Zemenaw (ETH/2005)
5. Ergat Heshe (ETH/2006)
6. Mastewal Sile (ETH/1999)
7. Hawi Worku (ETH/2006) (PB 71:51)
8. Meselech Alemayehu (ETH/2006)
9. Aberash Minsewo (ETH/ 2001)

10.Kuftu Tahir (ETH/1995)

11.Tibeb Tafere (ETH- 2006)

BC Jindal Group’s Jindal Football Announces Delhi NCR Foray with Sporting Club Delhi Ahead of AIFF’s Super Cup

New Delhi, October 19, 2025: Jindal Football Private Limited, under the ambit of the BC Jindal Group, one of India’s leading business houses, has announced its foray into the Delhi-National Capital Region (NCR) with the launch of its new team, Sporting Club Delhi. The new club will debut in the All India Football Federation’s (AIFF) upcoming annual competition, the Super Cup, scheduled for later this month.

The strategic launch is in line with Jindal Football’s endeavour to build a leading football club for Delhi NCR. Through this initiative, the new team, christened as Sporting Club Delhi, also aims to raise the aspirational value of the game in the country and provide a robust platform for young Indian talents to develop and compete at the global level. In addition to promoting the sport, this launch also aims to engage with the new generation of fans in the region and across India.

“The unveiling of Sporting Club Delhi marks the beginning of a new chapter for football in the Delhi NCR region and India. The club will represent inclusivity, ambition, and the city’s spirit and enthusiasm for the sport. With unity, determination, and revival as its philosophy, the club’s long-term vision will be to focus on youth development, community engagement, and grassroots football. Through this initiative, we also aim to facilitate long-term infrastructure development, academies, and local partnerships,” said Mr. Bhavesh Jindal, Promoter, BC Jindal Group.

Along with announcing the new team, Sporting Club Delhi, today, also unveiled the club’s brand-new logo that features a stylized Phoenix, a mythical bird rising from the flames, representing resilience and the rebirth of the sport in the city and its surrounding regions.

“Our new identity shines a spotlight on Delhi rising from the ashes in the absence of professional football in the city and the region. With this move, the capital city, which once had a thriving football culture and stood at the heart of Indian football, will return to the top-tier of Indian football leagues with its own club,” said Mr. Dhruv Sood, Chief Executive Officer, Sporting Club Delhi.

Before this, BC Jindal Group’s Jindal Football had acquired the sporting license for Hyderabad Football Club before the Indian Super League (ISL) season 2024-25. The erstwhile Hyderabad FC had an inspirational journey in the ISL and were also the winners of the 2021-22 season. The new Sporting Club Delhi will remain committed to building a team that will mirror the city’s passion for football and its rich sporting heritage.

In 2024, BC Jindal Group entered the Indian football space with Jindal Football Private Limited as part of its overall focus on sports development in India.

Bisleri partners with Indian Supercross Racing League as Official Hydration Partner

Guwahati – 9th October 2025 –The Indian Supercross Racing League (ISRL) proudly announces its partnership with Bisleri, India’s leading packaged drinking water brand, as the Official Hydration Partner. This collaboration brings together the thrill of motorsport and the trusted legacy of Bisleri, ensuring athletes, teams, and fans stay refreshed and energized throughout the season.

Speaking on the partnership, Eeshan Lokhande, Co-Founder of ISRL, said: “Hydration plays a crucial role in a sport as physically demanding as Supercross and this season we are joined by athletes who are some of the best across the sporting world. This partnership with Bisleri reinforces our commitment to catering to world-class riders, keeping athletes, fans, and the entire team working relentlessly for ISRL hydrated, up to speed, and totally energized throughout. We are delighted to welcome Bisleri and look for this partnership to grow in the coming years as well.”

Adding to this, Tushar Malhotra, Director – Sales & Marketing, Bisleri International. “Indian Supercross Racing League is a platform that celebrates speed, endurance, and passion. At Bisleri, hydration is at the heart of performance, and through this strategic partnership, we aim to fuel the energy of racers and fans alike. This association reflects our commitment to supporting emerging sports and delivering hydration where it’s needed most, while also helping us strengthen our connect with Gen Z consumers.”

With this collaboration, Bisleri reinforces its commitment to supporting sports and high-energy events, while ISRL continues to elevate the Supercross experience in India with world-class standards and fan engagement.