Saturday, April 19
Ace shooter Manu Bhaker, awarded the Major Dhyan Chand Khel Ratna by President Droupadi Murmu at Rashtrapati Bhawan, achieved historic success at the Paris Olympics 2024 by winning two bronze medals, becoming the first Indian to secure two Olympic medals in shooting post-Independence and the second Indian woman to win two Olympic medals.
Batting legend Sachin Tendulkar praised Karun Nair’s outstanding performance in the Vijay Hazare Trophy, noting his remarkable average of 752 runs in seven innings, with five centuries. Nair’s achievements have led Vidarbha to the tournament final, where they will face Karnataka.
Astrologer Greenstone Lobo predicts tough times ahead for young cricketer Prithvi Shaw, highlighting planetary hurdles affecting his form. Shaw's potential comeback seems uncertain until 2026, with better prospects in domestic cricket rather than international. Once considered a future star, Shaw faces ongoing fitness and discipline issues, lowering his chance for a major revival soon.
Double Olympic medallist PV Sindhu experienced a tough quarterfinal loss against Indonesia's Gregoria Mariska Tunjung at the India Open Super 750 badminton tournament. In men's singles, Kiran George was also defeated. However, Satwiksairaj Rankireddy and Chirag Shetty shone brightly, advancing into the semis with a dominant win over their Korean opponents in just 41 minutes.
The Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI) on Thursday introduced strict guidelines to enforce discipline, unity, and professionalism among Indian cricket players, following recent failures in Australia. Measures include mandatory domestic match participation, travel guidelines, baggage limits, restrictions on personal staff, and commitment to official duties, with adherence ensuring eligibility and avoiding disciplinary action.
Rassie van der Dussen reflected on missing out on the T20 World Cup despite a strong year, pivoting to opportunities in various T20 leagues. Van der Dussen emphasised on continuous learning and playing for South Africa, inspired by Faf du Plessis. He spoke after Lhuan-dre Pretorius impressed once again in the SA20, aiding Paarl Royals in defeating MI Cape Town.
In a dramatic second-round upset at the Australian Open, 19-year-old qualifier Learner Tien defeated last year's runner-up Daniil Medvedev in five sets. The marathon match ended with a 7-6 (10/7) tie-break in Tien's favor after nearly five hours of relentless action and a rain delay.
Arsenal beat Tottenham 2-1, narrowing the gap with Liverpool, while Newcastle's Alexander Isak scored twice in a 3-0 win over Wolves to move into the top four. Everton struggled under David Moyes, losing 1-0 to Aston Villa, increasing their relegation fears. Crystal Palace defeated Leicester 2-0, deepening Leicester's woes.
