Category: Sports

Mumbai, Dec 18 (digihunt) – Shruti Vora, representing Team India, exhibited an impressive performance at the Asian Continental Championships 2025 held in Pattaya, Thailand, clinching three silver medals in equestrian dressage aboard horse No. 209, Magnanimous.

In the Dressage Freestyle to Music Individual Championship, Shruti delivered a composed performance, securing the Silver Medal with a noteworthy score of 73.800%. Sarah R. from China riding Geniaal took home the gold with a score of 79.180, while Pakjira Thongpakdi of Thailand on Samira O finished in third place, scoring 72.505%.

In the Team Dressage Championship, India showcased a consistent effort, finishing with a cumulative score of 204.059 under the guidance of coach Sudhir Singh Ahlawat. The Indian team included Gaurav Pundir on Elector (66.059%), Divyakriti Singh on Improve (67.118%), and Shruti Vora on Magnanimous (70.882%). Team Thailand bagged the gold medal with a total score of 205.853, while Team Hong Kong secured the bronze with 203.235.

Shruti Vora also earned silver in the Intermediate Dressage Individual event, demonstrating exceptional consistency and a strong partnership with Magnanimous, scoring 70.882%. The gold in this event was awarded to Sarah Rao of China, who rode Geniaal for a score of 71.382%. Jacqueline Wing Ying Siu from Hong Kong aboard Izonik completed the podium by clinching the bronze with a score of 69.588%.

Before launching her coaching and competitive career in Germany, Shruti Vora built her foundational skills at the Amateur Riders’ Club (ARC) in Mumbai. She has consistently recognized ARC as a formidable nurturing ground for upcoming equestrian talent, with riders like Hriday Chheda, Yashaan Khambata, Kevean, and Zahan Setalvad having represented India in the last two Asian Games. The club has played a crucial role in developing riders from the national circuit to international levels, significantly enhancing India’s presence in global equestrian sport.

Commenting on her achievement of triple silver at the 2025 Asian Continental Championships, Shruti Vora stated, “Making history for Indian dressage has been an honour for me. Years of dedication, persistence, and hard work have come together to make this possible, and it inspires me to continue striving to raise Indian equestrian sport on the world stage.”

–digihunt

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Ahmedabad: An emotional Virat Kohli was the centerpiece of a historic moment as the Royal Challengers Bangalore (RCB) clinched their first-ever IPL championship, defeating Punjab Kings in a heart-stopping final in Ahmedabad. In a moment etched in cricket folklore, Virat Kohli gets emotional, breaking down in tears as 18 years of drought ended and RCB finally lifted the coveted trophy.

The victory arrived in a dramatic final act. Though Josh Hazlewood surrendered a six on the final ball, the result was academic at this point for Punjab; RCB Champions after 18 seasons of hope and heartbreak! The cheers shook the stadium as players jumped in jubilation.

The cameras immediately turned to Virat Kohli, who has carried the hopes of RCB and its millions of fans for more than a decade. Finally free from the burden of expectation, the iconic batter was captured in a flood of tears, a raw and powerful display of emotion that encapsulated the journey of the franchise. Shared equally by everyone was an emotional ab devilliers.

While the final itself was a tense battle, RCB’s first IPL trophy triumph was no accident. Inspired by Kohli’s unwavering leadership and driven by a collective hunger for success, the team displayed remarkable resilience throughout the tournament, peaking at just the right moment.

The scenes of celebration were nothing short of euphoric. The RCB faithful erupted in a sea of red and gold, their chants of “Ee Saala Cup Namde” (This Year, the Cup is Ours) finally turning into a triumphant reality. The victory marked a cathartic moment for Bangalore and all those who have believed in the Royal Challengers.

This IPL triumph holds immense significance for Virat Kohli, marking a defining chapter in his illustrious career and underlining his unwavering commitment to the franchise. For the RCB fans, it is the moment they have been waiting for, a moment to celebrate that could potentially be marked in the annuls of time. The drought is finally over. And, RCB are IPL champions finally, as Virat Kohli gets emotional under the flashing lights of Ahmedabad!

Ahmedabad: “Ee Saala Cup Namde” has finally become a reality! After 18 long years of near misses and heartbreaking defeats, Royal Challengers Bangalore (RCB) have clinched their first-ever IPL title, defeating Punjab Kings in a nail-biting final in Ahmedabad. Virat Kohli, the face of the franchise, was overcome with emotion, seen in tears as the winning runs were scored, marking the end of an era of frustration and the beginning of a new chapter for RCB.

The victory came in dramatic fashion. With Punjab Kings requiring a near-impossible number of runs off the last ball, Josh Hazlewood delivered to Shashank Singh, who connected for a towering six. But the maximum was only a consolation, as it officially confirmed RCB’s long-awaited triumph. The players erupted, the crowd went wild, and the RCB faithful, starved of success for so long, celebrated a moment etched in history.

Kohli, who has poured his heart and soul into RCB for over a decade, couldn’t contain his emotions. The cameras captured him in tears, surrounded by his teammates, a poignant image reflecting the years of dedication and unwavering belief. Many cameras focused on AB de Villiers, the great players shared the heartfelt moments.

The final was a captivating contest, with both teams battling fiercely. However, RCB, driven by the collective desire to break their title jinx and guided by Kohli’s passion, displayed resilience and composure when it mattered most. After a stellar peformance they secured victory.

The atmosphere in Ahmedabad was electric as fans wearing the red and gold of RCB erupted in jubilation. Flags flew high, chants echoed through the stadium, and tears of joy streamed down the faces of supporters who had waited patiently for this moment.

This IPL title is more than just silverware for RCB; it’s a symbol of resilience, belief, and the unwavering spirit of a team and its fans. For Virat Kohli, it’s a testament to his leadership and commitment. For the RCB faithful, it’s the fulfillment of a long-cherished dream. The city of Bangalore and RCB fandom are in celebration.

Punjab Kings (PBKS) opener Prabhsimran Singh lit up the Ekana Cricket Stadium in Lucknow with a scintillating half-century, taking charge of PBKS’s chase of 172 against Lucknow Super Giants (LSG) in Match 13 of IPL 2025. His aggressive knock has put Punjab in a commanding position as they aim to secure their second consecutive victory of the season.

Prabhsimran Leads the Charge

Prabhsimran Singh, opening the innings alongside Priyansh Arya, showcased his attacking intent right from the start. After losing Arya early, Prabhsimran took matters into his own hands, smashing boundaries and keeping the scoreboard ticking. His fifty came off just 28 balls, featuring some exquisite strokes that left the LSG bowlers struggling for answers.

As of now, PBKS stands at 62/1, with Prabhsimran and skipper Shreyas Iyer steadying the innings. The duo’s partnership looks crucial as Punjab eyes a comfortable finish to their chase.

A Balanced Contest So Far

Earlier in the match, LSG posted a competitive total of 171, thanks to contributions from Ayush Badoni and David Miller. However, Punjab’s bowlers, led by Yuzvendra Chahal and Marco Jansen, managed to restrict Lucknow from crossing the 180-run mark on a pitch that traditionally favors spinners.

The Ekana pitch has been challenging for big hitters due to its low-scoring nature, but Prabhsimran’s fearless batting has turned the tide in Punjab’s favor.

What’s at Stake?

Both teams entered this match with one win each under their belt. While LSG is looking to secure their first home win of the season, PBKS is aiming to extend their winning streak and climb up the points table. With Prabhsimran Singh leading the charge, Punjab seems well on track to achieve their target.

As Prabhsimran Singh continues to dominate with his bat, PBKS fans are optimistic about another thrilling finish. Can Lucknow bounce back with their bowlers, or will Punjab cruise to victory? Stay tuned as this exciting contest unfolds!

In a strategic move aimed at bolstering their spin attack, Sunrisers Hyderabad (SRH) introduced 25-year-old leg-spinner Zeeshan Ansari into their playing XI for the IPL 2025 match against Delhi Capitals (DC) at Visakhapatnam’s ACA-VDCA Cricket Stadium. Ansari replaced pacer Simarjeet Singh, signaling SRH’s intent to leverage spin-friendly conditions. ​

From Uttar Pradesh to the IPL: Ansari’s Cricketing Journey

Born on December 16, 1999, in Lucknow, Uttar Pradesh, Zeeshan Ansari showcased his cricketing prowess early on. He was a key member of India’s squad for the 2016 Under-19 Cricket World Cup, highlighting his potential on the international stage. Ansari made his first-class debut for Uttar Pradesh in the 2017–18 Ranji Trophy and entered the T20 arena during the 2018–19 Syed Mushtaq Ali Trophy.

Domestic Performance and IPL Acquisition

In domestic cricket, Ansari has played five first-class matches, claiming 17 wickets with a commendable average of 30.76. His standout performances in the Uttar Pradesh T20 League, where he secured 24 wickets in 12 innings, caught the attention of IPL scouts. Recognizing his talent, SRH secured Ansari’s services for ₹40 lakh during the IPL 2025 auction. ​

Strategic Inclusion Against Delhi Capitals

The decision to field Ansari against DC was influenced by the spin-conducive pitch conditions at Visakhapatnam. SRH’s captain, Pat Cummins, emphasized the importance of adapting to the playing surface, stating, “With the pitch offering assistance to spinners, introducing Zeeshan into the attack provides us with a strategic edge.”

ACA-VDCA Stadium: A Spin-Friendly Venue

The ACA-VDCA Cricket Stadium in Visakhapatnam is renowned for its pitch that favors spin bowlers, especially as matches progress. Historically, teams have leveraged quality spinners to exploit these conditions, making Ansari’s inclusion a calculated move by the SRH management.​

Looking Ahead

As SRH continues its IPL 2025 campaign, the team aims to rebound from previous setbacks. The integration of emerging talents like Zeeshan Ansari reflects the franchise’s commitment to nurturing young players and adapting strategies to optimize performance.​

​Cricket enthusiasts and SRH supporters will keenly observe how Ansari’s leg-spin influences the team’s dynamics in the ongoing tournament.

In a thrilling face-off at Ahmedabad’s Narendra Modi Stadium on March 29, 2025, Gujarat Titans showcased a formidable batting performance, posting a challenging total of 196/8 in their 20 overs against Mumbai Indians. The highlight of the innings was opener B. Sai Sudharsan’s impressive 63-run knock, which laid a solid foundation for the Titans.​

Power-Packed Start by Gujarat Titans

Opting to bat first, Gujarat Titans’ captain Shubman Gill and Sai Sudharsan initiated the innings with aggressive intent. Gill was particularly assertive, executing a series of boundaries that energized the crowd. The duo’s synergy propelled the team to a robust 66/0 by the end of the powerplay, setting an assertive tone for the innings.​

Sudharsan Anchors the Innings

Following Gill’s departure, who was dismissed by MI’s returning captain Hardik Pandya, Jos Buttler joined Sudharsan at the crease. Together, they constructed a vital 51-run partnership, with Sudharsan reaching his half-century in just 33 balls. His innings, adorned with four boundaries and two sixes, was instrumental in steering Gujarat Titans towards a competitive total.​

Mumbai Indians’ Bowling Highlights

Mumbai Indians faced challenges in containing the Titans’ batting lineup. However, Hardik Pandya’s bowling stood out as he claimed 2 wickets for 29 runs, including the crucial dismissal of Shubman Gill. Trent Boult also made a significant impact, delivering a searing yorker to trap Sudharsan lbw at a pivotal moment in the game. Additionally, Satyanarayana Raju’s unconventional bowling techniques sparked discussions among cricket enthusiasts.

Late Innings Drama

The final overs witnessed a flurry of wickets, with Mumbai Indians capturing six scalps in the last five overs. Despite this, contributions from Sherfane Rutherford and others ensured that Gujarat Titans reached an imposing total of 196/8, setting the stage for an exciting chase.​ As the match progresses, all eyes will be on Mumbai Indians to see if they can rise to the challenge and chase down the target set by Gujarat Titans.

As the match progresses, all eyes will be on Mumbai Indians to see if they can rise to the challenge and chase down the target set by Gujarat Titans.

In the IPL 2025 clash between Mumbai Indians (MI) and Gujarat Titans (GT) at Ahmedabad’s Narendra Modi Stadium, MI’s young pacer, Satyanarayana Raju, became the center of attention due to his distinctive bowling style.​

The Delivery That Stunned Everyone

During the 13th over, Raju bowled an exceptionally slow back-of-the-hand bouncer to GT’s Jos Buttler. The ball’s sluggish pace allowed Buttler ample time to adjust before pulling it to the boundary. This delivery, reminiscent of variations used by West Indies’ Dwayne Bravo, left commentators and fans astonished.

Performance Under Scrutiny

In his three-over spell, Raju conceded 40 runs and secured his maiden IPL wicket by dismissing Rashid Khan in the final over of GT’s innings. Despite a challenging outing, his ability to execute unique variations highlights his potential as a valuable asset for MI.

Backing from Rohit Sharma to Satyanarayana Raju

Ahead of the match, former MI captain Rohit Sharma was seen offering words of encouragement to Raju, including a reassuring hug. This gesture underscores the supportive environment within the MI camp, fostering confidence among emerging talents.

Who is Satyanarayana Raju?

Born on July 10, 1999, in the Kakinada district of Andhra Pradesh, Raju’s cricketing journey began with impressive stints in domestic cricket. His breakthrough came during the 2024 Andhra Premier League, where he showcased his talent by taking eight wickets in seven matches, maintaining an economy rate just over six. This performance paved the way for his inclusion in Andhra Pradesh’s Ranji Trophy and Syed Mushtaq Ali Trophy squads, where he continued to demonstrate his bowling prowess.

IPL Journey with Mumbai Indians

Recognizing his potential, the Mumbai Indians acquired Raju for ₹30 lakh during the IPL 2025 mega-auction. He made his IPL debut against the Chennai Super Kings on March 23, 2025, at the MA Chidambaram Stadium. Although his initial outing saw him concede 13 runs in a single over without taking a wicket, his selection generated excitement among fans, particularly in his hometown of Kakinada.

​Looking Ahead

As the tournament progresses, fans and analysts will keenly observe Raju’s development and how he leverages his unconventional techniques to challenge seasoned batsmen.

The national flag is an emblematic representation of our country’s values and is a source of immense pride and significance. It is associated with the nation’s ethos and is a matter of pride and great value. Our relationship with the flag has traditionally been more formal and institutional than personal. Last year, to celebrate the 75th year of independence, Indians were encouraged to bring the flag home collectively as a nation, thus becoming symbolic of an act of personal connection to the Tiranga and an embodiment of our commitment to nation-building.
Taking the idea further, NIMAS (National Institute of Mountaineering and Adventure Sports) has initiated the gradual progression of the idea Har Ghar Tiranga to Har Shikar Tiranga. The mission is to invoke the feeling of patriotism in the hearts of the people and promote awareness about the Indian National Flag and highlight the Adventure Tourism potential of our own country by encouraging all to take pride in their state’s highest peaks.

‘Har Shikhar Tiranga’ is a campaign under the aegis of Azadi Ka Amrit Mahotsav to take the Tiranga to all the states of the country and to hoist it on the zenith of the summits to mark the 75th year of India’s independence and to commemorate the G20 presidentship of our country. Chief Minister of the state of Arunachal Pradesh, Shri Pema Khandu flagged off Mission Har Shikhar Tiranga, from NIMAS, Dirang. He congratulated NIMAS on this occasion and said, “As the mission aims to summit the highest peak of states of India, it’s a matter of pride for the state.” He complimented NIMAS director, Col Ranveer Singh Jamwal, SM, VSM** and while addressing the media he said, “The summit will begin from summiting Mt. Reo Purgyil in Himachal Pradesh and end at Mt Jongsong in Sikkim.”
Triumph of conquering a mountain peak can be experienced only by dedicated climbers.
As the brainchild of Col. Ranveer Singh Jamwal, SM, VSM**, First Indian to climb the Seven Summits along with Mount Everest three times, he takes pride in hoisting flags on these points and dreamt of hoisting Indian flag on all the highest points of the nation. He said, “It took us more than 3 months to plan this campaign, it’s a movement for my motherland, to do something that never has been done.” He further added, “Har Shikhar Tiranga intends to spread the gesture of inclusivity, inculcate and promote the spirit of adventure, and capture the vibrant landscape, unique culture, and unadulterated truth of remote area travel in our states. “

Climbing to Glory, Team NIMAS has conceptualized this unique idea and will be attempting to conquer the peaks of all states of the country such as Mt. Kamet in Uttarakhand, Anamudi in Kerala, Doddabetta in Tamil Nadu, Nun Peak in J&K, Mt. Kalsubai in Maharashtra, Mt. Reo Purgyil in Himachal, Guru Shikhar in Rajasthan. so on and so forth.
NIMAS has always been a front runner to take forward the goal of spreading the joyous celebrations of “Azaadi ka Amrit Mahotsav “to the farthest reaches of the country. Earlier this year, in a record-breaking event, the Team of National Adventure Institute (NIMAS) completed the first 7 North Eastern states Expedition and created two national records by climbing the top peaks of all seven North Eastern states.
Har Shikhar Tiranga is not just a campaign, it’s a movement to promote unity in diversity.
The National Institute of Mountaineering and Adventure Sports (NIMAS) offers training across land, air, and water—a first of its kind that allows civilians to experience challenges across a variety of outdoor surfaces as well as pursue a career in adventure sports. Every training programme at NIMAS is designed to draw on ideas of self-discovery and individual evolution, much of which is inspired by the magnificent inner and outer journeys of individuals closely associated with the institute.Over the years, the institute has seen a plethora of locals intent on working hard and making NIMAS a success every step of the way.

The team is on the base of Reo Purgyil peak in Himachal as we move to the press.

The South Africa Women’s team created history on Friday (February 24) in Cape Town as they beat the England Women’s team to reach their maiden World Cup final in history. The hosts of the ongoing ICC Women’s T20 World Cup defeated former champions England by six runs in the second semifinal.

The second semi-final started in Cape Town between England and South Africa where the African team won the toss and elected to bat first. Their openers gave an incredible start to their innings. The opener Laura Wolvaardt played a knock of 53 in 44 balls with 5 fours and a six, whereas Tazmin Brits 68 in 55 balls with 6 fours and 2 sixes. Marizanne Kapp made 27 in 13 balls with 4 fours and made South Africa reach up to a total of 164 at the loss of 4 wickets in 20 overs.

In spite of having a great start of 53 in 5.1 overs England lost the game as the day was to create a history in the grounds of Newlands Cricket of Cape Town. There were remarkable spells from the South African team as Shabnim Ismail took 3 wickets by giving 27 runs whereas Ayabonga Khaka took 4 wickets in 29 runs. Nadine de Klerk took a wicket and gave 17 runs in her spell.

It was a memorable victory for the host, the South African cricketers as they could not control their emotions and seemed teary-eyed to celebrate their victory.

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Brief of the game : South Africa 164/4 in 20 overs (Tazmin Brits 68, Laura Wolvaardt 53; Sophie Ecclestone 3-22) beat England 158/8 in 20 overs (Nat Sciver-Brunt 40, Danni Wyatt 34; Ayabonga Khaka 4-29, Shabnim Ismail 3-27) by six runs.

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Women’s T20 World Cup South Africa 2023.

The Final will be on Sunday 26th February 2023 on the same pitch against the Australians. Will Australia make their second T20 World Cup win of the ICC WOMEN’S or will South Africa create the history like England did in the World Cup of 2019 as the world cup was held in their country?

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It has been a close loss for India but not without a lot of mistakes which aren’t usually done in a do or die match. As it would hurt a lot of hopes and emotions.

In the ground of Newlands cricket, Australia won the toss and elected to bat first. The women in blue had kept Australia blocked till the first six overs as experience of Shikha Pandey counts a lot. But there were plenty of mistakes like dropping easy catches , miss fielding and stumping.

It seemed like till the time these two batsmen are there India will make it into the finals. But the reality turned out to be something else.

India was 3 down for 28 and then came the skipper who played an outstanding inning. The skipper Harmanpreet Kaur played a knock of 52 runs in 34 balls with 6 fours and a six whereas Jemima scored 43 runs in 24 balls with 6 fours. She got out like Mahendra Singh Dhoni got out against New Zealand in the world cup semi-final of 2019.

Kaur felt so bad that she threw the bat on the field out of frustration and cried after India lost by 5 runs.

Anjum Chopra empathised with skipper Kaur as India bit the dust in the semi-finals.

Shefali Verma and Smriti Mandhana too couldn’t give a strong and .Renuka Thakur’s spell caused 40 runs in 4 overs. This is not the first time when India was brought down to her knees rather the sixth time Australia defeated India. Previously, India lost in the finals against Australia in the World Cup ODI and this time it is the T20.

Hopefully India will learn from their mistakes and next time will be well equipped to give the Aussies a tough competition.

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