IOA gets involved as India host first Kho Kho World Cup
NEW DELHI, Nov 18: The Indian Olympic Association (IOA) on Monday confirmed its partnership with the Kho Kho Federation of India as the country gets to ready to host the first-ever Kho Kho World Cup, to be held here from January 13 to 19.The IOA has pledged its “unwavering support” for the event to be organised at the at the IGI Stadium.In a statement to KKFI chief Sudhanshu Mittal, IOA president PT Usha expressed the association’s strong commitment to elevating indigenous sports like Kho Kho.Usha said, “We recognise the significance of this event in celebrating our cultural heritage and promoting traditional sports, and we look forward to collaborating with Kho Kho Federation of India to ensure the success of the tournament.“Together, we aim to make this event memorable and impactful, encouraging the spirit of sportsmanship among participants and fostering a deeper appreciation for Kho Kho worldwide.” Mittal said the partnership between IOA and KKFI will be a “game-changer” for Kho Kho.“The support of the IOA, led by President PT Usha, is a game-changer for Kho Kho. This collaboration is pivotal in putting Kho Kho on the global map, and we’re thrilled to be hosting the first-ever Kho Kho World Cup, a truly historic event for the sport,” Mittal said.The World Cup will feature both men’s and women’s teams, with 25 countries from six continents set to compete.Teams from Asia, including hosts India, Bangladesh, Pakistan, and Sri Lanka, will face off alongside competitors from Africa, Europe, North America, South America, and Oceania.Nations like Ghana, Kenya, England, Germany, Brazil and Australia will be among the participants. (PTI)
Omkar Salvi named RCB’s bowling coach
BENGALURU, Nov 18: Royal Challengers Bengaluru on Monday announced the appointment of Omkar Salvi as the IPL franchise’s bowling coach, a reward for guiding Mumbai to Ranji Tropy and Irani Trophy titles last season.A well-known name on the domestic circuit, Omkar has in the past worked as assistant coach with Kolkata Knight Riders.“Omkar Salvi, current Head Coach of Mumbai, has been appointed as RCB’s Bowling Coach,” the franchise tweeted.“Omkar, who has won the Ranji Trophy, Irani Trophy and the IPL in the last 8 months, is excited to join us in time for #IPL2025, after completion of his Indian domestic season duties.” He is expected to join RCB after the end of the ongoing Ranji season, which will resume on January 23.In between, he will also oversee Mumbai’s campaign in the Syed Mushtaq Ali T20 tournament. (PTI)
PCB ends Women’s C’ship after fire incident in team hotel
KARACHI, Nov 18: The Pakistan Cricket Board (PCB) had to abruptly end the National Women’s Championship here on Monday after five players had a close shave following a fire incident in the team hotel.The PCB had booked an entire floor for the five competing sides and team officials.A source said that when the fire broke out, barring five players, all the other cricketers and officials were at the National Stadium either for matches or net sessions.“Five players were in their rooms when the fire broke out. It has caused damage to some property of the players and officials,” he said.“PCB has decided to curtail the National Women’s One-Day Tournament 2024-25 in Karachi following a fire incident at the team hotel,” the PCB said in a statement.“Fortunately, no players were injured, as the PCB promptly evacuated the five players in the hotel at the time of the incident and relocated them safely to the Hanif Mohammad High-Performance Centre.” The PCB apparently tried to find an alternate accommodation for the teams but because of the Ideas Defence Exhibition being held in Karachi, they could not find a hotel. The PCB said the decision to truncate the tournament was taken keeping in mind the health and safety of the players. (PTI)