Footy: India to play Philippines on Nov 15
New Delhi: The Indian football team will play an international friendly match against Philippines at home on November 15. All India Football Federation General Secretary Kushal Das said that Philippines have agreed to play the match. “Yes, it is confirmed that we are playing against Philippines at home on November 15,” Das said. Since November 15 falls on a FIFA match day, the result will be counted for the rankings. The clubs will also have to release their players for the international match. The match will be beneficial for some of the India players who have been without an I-League club after aligning with the IMG-Reliance for the new football league early next year as they will get an opportunity to be in action. The AIFF has kept a gap of more than 15 days in the I-League fixtures between November 6-23 with just one match scheduled apparently to accomodate this friendly. (PTI)
Jwala chalks out plan of action
New Delhi: With the BAI mounting pressure on Jwala Gutta, the top doubles exponent had a series of meetings on Tuesday with her IBL franchise Krrish Delhi Smashers and lawyers here to chalk out the next course of action in her fight against the recommended life ban. The Badminton Association of India (BAI) had ruled out considering Jwala for selection in any international events in the next one month, pending a decision by the committee formed on Monday. It means the Commonwealth Games gold medallist will not be able to play in Denmark and France in upcoming tournaments. Jwala’s father, Kranti Gutta said that they are weighing all options and hoped the Sports Ministry takes suo moto notice of the issue. “They have formed a committee and we have got the letter. We have kept open all options, including legal option. I hope the Sports Ministry takes suo moto notice of the issue,” Kranti Gutta said. (PTI)
Hulkenberg’s size not a problem for Lotus
SUZUKA: Nico Hulkenberg’s chances of replacing Kimi Raikkonen at Lotus were boosted on Tuesday after the Formula One team said weight would not be a major factor in their choice of driver. The issue has become a hot topic in the sport, with the introduction of a new and heavier V6 turbo power unit and energy recovery systems next year giving more of an advantage to the lighter drivers. Hulkenberg is one of the tallest and, at 78 kilos, heaviest drivers. The ideal weight next season is likely to be between 60 and 65 kg. “We’re more interested in the talent and potential of a driver rather than the difference of a few kilos,” said Lotus team principal Eric Boullier. Boullier, who needs to replace Raikkonen after the Finn signed to return to Ferrari next season, has made no secret of his interest in Sauber’s Hulkenberg. The German finished fourth in South Korea last weekend and had also been considered for the Ferrari seat. (Reuters)