Ranchi Hosts Successful South Asian Athletics Championships
The 4th South Asian Athletics Championships 2025 in Ranchi has witnessed an outstanding performance from Indian athletes. On the opening day, India secured an impressive tally of 14 medals, including five gold, six silver, and three bronze medals across nine categories. Gold medalists included Prince Kumar in the Men's 5000-meter race, Sanjana Singh in the Women's 5000-meter race, Samardeep Singh Gill in Men's Shot Put, Yogita in Women's Shot Put, and the 4x400 meters mixed relay team. The dominance continued on the second day, with India adding another 16 medals to its kitty, comprising six gold, six silver, and four bronze in 11 track and field events.
Cricket Updates: Men's Victory and Women's World Cup Semifinals
In men's cricket, India achieved a nine-wicket victory over Australia in the third and final One Day International (ODI) at the Sydney Cricket Ground. Rohit Sharma's 33rd ODI century and Virat Kohli's solid fifty (74 not out) were instrumental in chasing down Australia's target of 237 runs. Pacer Harshit Rana was a standout performer with four wickets. Despite the win, Australia clinched the three-match series 2-1. Unfortunately, during the match, Shreyas Iyer sustained an injury while taking a catch.
Meanwhile, in the Women's World Cup 2025, India has confirmed its spot in the semifinals and is set to face Australia. Australia secured the top spot in the league stage after defeating South Africa. In an unrelated development, two Australian women cricketers competing in the World Cup allegedly faced harassment in Indore, with an arrest made in connection with the incident.
Indian Football Season Kicks Off with Super Cup
The Super Cup 2025 has commenced in Goa, serving as a crucial season opener for Indian football clubs. The tournament aims to provide competitive action and help clubs prepare amidst uncertainties surrounding the domestic calendar. Sixteen teams, including 12 from the Indian Super League (ISL) and four from the I-League, are participating, with the winners earning a spot in the preliminary stage of the AFC Champions League Two. The opening day saw Kolkata giants East Bengal and Mohun Bagan Super Giant in action.
Separately, a much-anticipated friendly match featuring Lionel Messi and the Argentinian national team in Kochi has been postponed due to delays in receiving FIFA approval.
India Wins International Polo Cup; Neeraj Chopra Honored
India emerged victorious in the International Polo Cup 2025, defeating Argentina with a score of 10-9 in a thrilling match held at the Jaipur Polo Ground. The event showcased exceptional skill and sportsmanship, drawing a distinguished audience.
In individual honors, India's celebrated javelin thrower and two-time Olympic medalist, Neeraj Chopra, has been conferred the honorary rank of Lieutenant Colonel in the Territorial Army. This recognition highlights his immense contributions to Indian sports and national pride.
Indian Shuttlers Shine at Badminton Asia U17 & U15 Championships
Indian young shuttlers are making their mark at the Badminton Asia U17 & U15 Championships in Chengdu, China. India is guaranteed a gold medal in the Girls' U17 event, as Diksha Sudhakar and Lakshya Rajesh have both reached the final and will compete against each other.