WNBA star Griner jailed for 9 years on drug charges
Khimki (Russia), Aug 5: US basketball star Brittney Griner was convicted Thursday in Russia of drug possession and smuggling and was sentenced to nine years behind bars in a politically charged case that could lead to a high-stakes prisoner exchange between Washington and Moscow. The 31-year-old Griner, a two-time U.S. Olympic champion and a eight-time all-star with the WNBA’s Phoenix Mercury, listened with a blank expression as an interpreter translated the verdict by Judge Anna Sotnikova, but her lawyers said later she was ‘very upset.’ Griner also was fined 1 million rubles (about USD 16,700). US President Joe Biden denounced as ‘unacceptable’ the verdict and sentence, which came amid soaring tensions between the US and Russia over Ukraine. (AP)
Indonesia Open: Bhullar adds 67 in 2nd round, stays 9th
Jakarta, Aug 5: Indian golfer Gaganjeet Bhullar added another fine round of 5-under-67 following a 68 the first day to get to 9-under 135 at the half stage here at the Indonesia Open. Bhullar had six birdies against one bogey and was Tied-9th after the second day. Shiv Kapur (70-68), Rashid Khan (68-70) and M Dharma (70-68) were T-19th at 6-under 138. Among other Indians, Honey Baisoya played a 7-under 65 to make up for his first round 76 to join Veer Ahlawat (70-71) in T-43rd. Ajeetesh Sandhu (71-71), Karandeep Kochhar (71-71) and Udayan Mane (72 and 2-under through 13) were also likely to make the cut. (PTI)