Karim Benzema fails to appear for blackmail trial in France
VERSAILLES (France), Oct 20: Real Madrid forward Karim Benzema wasn’t present Wednesday for the opening of his three-day trial for involvement in an alleged attempt to blackmail former France teammate Mathieu Valbuena over a sex tape. The 33-year-old Benzema’s legal team told the court in Versailles that professional obligations made it “impossible” for him to attend. Four other people accused of attempted blackmail in the case were present in court. The charges are punishable by up to five years in prison and a 75,000 euro fine. (AP)
About third of Premier League players not fully vaccinated
LONDON, Oct 20: Almost a third of Premier League soccer players have yet to be fully vaccinated against the coronavirus and about 20% have yet to receive a first dose. The first vaccination data from the league shows its players are below the national average. Only 68% of players have been fully vaccinated and 81% have received at least one dose, the league said. “Vaccination rates are collected by the Premier League on a weekly basis and the league continues to work with clubs to encourage vaccination among players and club staff,” the league said in a statement. (AP)
Indian boxing team leaves for Belgrade world c’ships
New Delhi, Oct 20: The Indian men’s boxing team, comprising the likes of Asian medal-winners Deepak Kumar (51kg), Shiva Thapa (63.5kg), Sanjeet (92kg), left for Belgrade on Wednesday to compete in the world championships starting on October 24, hopeful of offsetting the disappointment of an underwhelming Olympic campaign. The trio forms the experienced core of the 13-strong squad, which is made up of this year’s national champions. Thapa is the only one with prior experience in the world event, having claimed a bronze in the 2015 edition. (PTI)
Rajasthan United beat Madan Maharaj 2-0 to secure top spot
bengaluru, Oct 20: Rajasthan United FC scored two late goals to beat Madan Maharaj FC 2-0 to claim pole position in the I-League Qualifiers final round here on Wednesday. Surag Chettri struck in the 88th minute before Harpreet Singh’s injury-added time (90+5) sealed the win for the Rajasthan side. With six points after winning both their matches, Rajasthan United are now at the pole position to secure the coveted I-League spot with Kenkre FC close behind on four points. Madan Maharaj FC, without a point so far, have been eliminated from I-League contention. In the other match of the day, Delhi FC and Kenkre FC played out a 1-1 draw to collect one point apiece. (PTI)