unior hockey World Cup begins today
New Delhi: Germany coach Andre Henning said, on Wednesday, that his side had a satisfactory preparation for the Hero Junior World Cup Hockey and they were ready to defend their title when the tournament begins here on Thursday. “The entire team looked good in the practice match and this gives us the confidence of being a strong team for the series. Our team is ready to give its 100 percent to defend the title. We will give a tough time to our opponents on the field and try winning every match,” Henning said after his side’s practice match against Australia. Germany come into this tournament not only as the defending champions but also as the most successful nation in the competition with five titles in their name. But they could only manage a third place finish at last year’s EuroHockey Junior Nations Championship. So, they may need to step up their game if they are going to defend their crown. (PTI)
Taylor double ton puts Kiwis in charge
Dunedin: Ross Taylor smashed a maiden double century against the West Indies on Wednesday as New Zealand racked up an imposing 609-9 declared, taking a vice-like grip on the first Test here. The tourists made a shaky start to their reply, reduced to 24-2 before recovering to reach 67 without further loss by the close but they face a monumental task to avoid defeat. Taylor, who a year ago was in the doldrums when dumped as New Zealand captain, proved that disappointment was well behind him as became only the 13th New Zealander to reach 200 in a Test innings. Along the way he shared in a 195-run partnership with replacement skipper Brendon McCullum – a record fourth-wicket stand for New Zealand against the West Indies. Taylor was at the crease for more than eight hours, faced 319 balls and hit 23 boundaries without risking a lofted shot. (AFP)
Sierra Leone, England win in Kabaddi WC
Gurdaspur (Punjab): Sierra Leone registered a decisive win on Wednesday, defeating Scotland 58-25 in mens’ kabaddi during the ongoing fourth World Cup kabaddi here. In the womens’ event England defeated Mexico 45-29. In the third match Pakistan defeated Denmark 77-22. Meanwhile, on Tuesday, Indian men registered their second win of the tournament as they breezed past Spain in their group match while women’s team defeated Kenya in an easy encounter. India beat Spain 55-27 in their Pool A match at the Lajwanti Stadium. The Indian eves overwhelmed Kenya 56-21 to bag their second win in as many matches. The men’s team will now take on Kenya on December 5 while their female counterparts will face United States on December 7. Twelve nations are participating in the men’s section and women’s competition has eight teams in fray. (PTI)