Cricket Dominates Headlines: Women's Team Shines, Men's Team Faces Setback
The Indian Women's Cricket Team delivered a stellar performance, defeating New Zealand by 53 runs (DLS method) in Navi Mumbai to secure a coveted spot in the ICC Women's World Cup 2025 semifinals. Opening batters Smriti Mandhana and Pratika Rawal were the stars of the match, both scoring magnificent centuries and forging a record 212-run partnership. Mandhana's century also saw her equal legendary Australian batter Meg Lanning's record for most international cricket centuries. Pratika Rawal's masterful 122 off 134 balls and Jemimah Rodrigues' half-century further solidified India's commanding total of 340 for three in the rain-affected 49-over match.,,
In contrast, the Indian Men's Cricket Team suffered a defeat in the second One Day International (ODI) against Australia, conceding the three-match series with one game remaining., Despite a gritty knock of 73 by captain Rohit Sharma, India's efforts fell short, as Australia secured an unassailable series lead., Notably, star batsman Virat Kohli recorded consecutive ducks for the first time in his 304-match ODI career during this series.,
Neeraj Chopra Honored, Cricketers Set for Comebacks
Olympic javelin gold medalist Neeraj Chopra has been conferred the honorary rank of Lieutenant Colonel in the Indian Army., This recognition highlights his continued achievements and contributions to the nation's pride.
In other significant cricket news, all-rounder Ravindra Jadeja is reportedly set to make his return to first-class cricket. He is expected to feature for Saurashtra in their upcoming Ranji Trophy clash against Madhya Pradesh in Rajkot, aiming to regain red-ball rhythm ahead of India's Test season. Additionally, fit-again wicketkeeper-batsman Rishabh Pant has been named captain of the India A squad for the red-ball series against South Africa A.
Athletics Championship Kicks Off in Ranchi
The 4th South Asian (SAAF) Athletics Championship 2025 is scheduled to commence today, October 24, in Ranchi, Jharkhand. The championship will run until October 26 at the Birsa Munda Football Stadium, with the official jersey having been unveiled recently.