Prannoy takes break to recover from impact of chikungunya
NEW DELHI, Aug 26: Seasoned Indian shuttler HS Prannoy on Monday said he is taking a break from the sport to allow his body to fully recover from the effects of chikungunya, which had adversely impacted his performance at the Paris Olympics.The 32-year-old, had been laid low by a week-long bout of the mosquito-borne viral disease that causes severe pain in the joints just ahead of the Paris Olympics.“Unfortunately, the battle with chikungunya has taken a toll on my body, leaving me with persistent pains that make it impossible to compete at my best,” Prannoy wrote on X.“After careful consideration with my team, I’ve decided to withdraw from some of the upcoming tournaments to focus on recovery. Thank you for your understanding and support during this challenging time. I’ll be back stronger,” he added.Prannoy, however, did not provide a time line for his recovery or mentioned the tournaments he has withdrawn from.The Kerala shutler, who won the world championship bronze in 2023, had been ravaged by a spate of illnesses, including a chronic stomach disorder and a nagging back injury. At the Paris Games, despite not being fully fit, Prannoy won both his Group matches to progress to the round of 16. He, however, went down to compatriot Lakshya Sen in the pre-quarterfinal. (PTI)
Players from 13 countries to compete in badminton meet
PUNE, Aug 26: Abhishek Kanpala and Prakriti Bharath will lead the Indian boys and girls respectively against participants from 13 countries in the Late Sushant Chipalkatti Yonex Sunrise India Junior International Grand Prix Badminton Tournament, starting here from Tuesday.It will be organised by Poona District Metropolitan Badminton Association under the auspices Badminton Association of India at the PE Society’s Modern PDMBA Sports Complex.The tournament, held in memory of the late Sushant Chipalkatti, has become a key fixture in the international junior badminton calendar.A total 280 players from 13 countries including India, USA, UAE, Australia, Indonesia, Thailand, Nepal, Malaysia, Switzerland, England, Taipei, Iran will be seen in action during this event.In previous editions, star players such as Saina Nehwal, PV Sindhu, Kidambi Shrikant, Satwiksairaj Rankireddy, Priyanshu Rajawat, and Chirag Shetty have played in this tournament.The tournament will feature competitions in U-19 boys and girls singles, doubles and mix doubles categories.As part of the Badminton World Federation (BWF) circuit, it offers participants an opportunity to earn ranking points and gain international experience. (PTI)
Dhawan joins Legends League Cricket following retirement
NEW DELHI, Aug 26: Former India opener Shikhar Dhawan on Monday joined the Legends League Cricket (LLC) following his retirement from international cricket.Having announced his retirement on Saturday, the 38-year-old southpaw can now compete in T20 leagues outside the IPL.“My body is still conditioned for the demands of the game, and while I’m at ease with my decision, cricket is an inseparable part of who I am, it will never go out of me.“I am eager to regroup with my cricketing friends and continue to entertain my fans as we create new memories together,” said Dhawan in a statement.Dhawan represented India in 34 Tests, 167 ODIs and 68 T20s, aggregating 12,286 international runs.The Legends League Cricket will be staged in September. (PTI)