Weightlifter Sanket Sargar opened India's medal account at the ongoing Commonwealth Games 2022 on Saturday (July 30) by clinching a silver medal in the men's 55kg category. Sargar finished second behind Malaysia's Bin Kasdan Mohammad Aniq in the final and missed out on the elusive gold medal by just 1 kg. It was a thrilling finish to the final as Sargar didn't deter from his last attempt despite an injury.

The 21-year-old Indian looked on course to win a gold medal, but an injury during his second attempt in the clean and jerk round saw him finish second. Nonetheless, Sargar managed to clinch India's first medal at the Games this year and earned praise from all corners.

Social media was flooded with wishes for the weightlifter with the likes of Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi, Olympic gold medallist Abhinav Bindra and former cricketer Virender Sehwag, among others, congratulating him on his medal.

Also Read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/sanket-sargar-wins-indias-first-medal-at-commonwealth-games-2022-bags-silver-in-weightlifting-502018">Sanket Sargar wins India's first medal at Commonwealth Games 2022, bags silver in weightlifting</a>

"Exceptional effort by Sanket Sargar! His bagging the prestigious Silver is a great start for India at the Commonwealth Games. Congratulations to him and best wishes for all future endeavours," PM Modi wrote in a tweet.

"Well done #SanketSargar for winning India it's first medal at the Commonwealth Games, brilliant effort.&nbsp;Proud of your Silver," wrote Sehwag in a tweet. 
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Exceptional effort by Sanket Sargar! His bagging the prestigious Silver is a great start for India at the Commonwealth Games. Congratulations to him and best wishes for all future endeavours. <a href="https://t.co/Pvjjaj0IGm">pic.twitter.com/Pvjjaj0IGm</a>
— Narendra Modi (@narendramodi) <a href="https://twitter.com/narendramodi/status/1553332568954589184?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">July 30, 2022</a></blockquote>
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Well done <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/SanketSargar?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#SanketSargar</a> for winning India it's first medal at the Commonwealth Games, brilliant effort. 
Proud of your Silver <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/CWG?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#CWG</a> . <a href="https://t.co/5qJzMwevF8">pic.twitter.com/5qJzMwevF8</a>
— Virender Sehwag (@virendersehwag) <a href="https://twitter.com/virendersehwag/status/1553328629626466305?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">July 30, 2022</a></blockquote>
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Congratulations Sanket Sargar for winning the Silver medal in Weightlifting (Men's 55kg) and opening India’s account at the Commonwealth Games 2022. Wishing you a swift and complete recovery from injury.
— Abhinav A. Bindra OLY (@Abhinav_Bindra) <a href="https://twitter.com/Abhinav_Bindra/status/1553329148902264832?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">July 30, 2022</a></blockquote>
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Congratulations Weightlifter Sanket Sargar wins silver, opens India's account in Birmingham <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/india?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#india</a> <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/Birmingham2022?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#Birmingham2022</a> <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/mshami11?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#mshami11</a> <a href="https://t.co/oa42CJFVBV">pic.twitter.com/oa42CJFVBV</a>
— Mohammad Shami (@MdShami11) <a href="https://twitter.com/MdShami11/status/1553331562586193920?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">July 30, 2022</a></blockquote>
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Heartiest congratulations, Sanket Sargar for opening India’s medal tally with a at <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/CommonwealthGames2022?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#CommonwealthGames2022</a> in <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/Weightlifting?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#Weightlifting</a> India is proud of you, champ <a href="https://t.co/FKxZFA94s0">pic.twitter.com/FKxZFA94s0</a>
— Robin Aiyuda Uthappa (@robbieuthappa) <a href="https://twitter.com/robbieuthappa/status/1553339065558536192?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">July 30, 2022</a></blockquote>
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Talking about the final, Sargar made a solid start and lifted 107 kg cleanly in his first attempt in the snatch round before successfully lifting 111 kg in his second attempt. He attained a healthy lead of 6 kg against Aniq by lifting 113 kg in his final third snatch attempt to head to the clean and jerk event with some advantage.

Also Read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/commonwealth-games-2022-weightlifter-gururaja-poojary-wins-bronze-medal-in-61kg-category-502064">Commonwealth Games 2022: Weightlifter Gururaja Poojary wins bronze medal in 61kg category</a>

In the clean and jerk round, Sargar lifted 135 kg in his first attempt before injuring his shoulder during his second attempt. However, he attempted to lift 139 kg once again in his third attempt despite his injury but failed to do so. He lifted a total of 248 kg (113 + 135) overall to finish behind Aniq, who lifted an impressive 142 kg in his final clean and jerk attempt to take gold with an overall lift of 249 kg.

Weightlifter Sanket Sargar opened India's medal account at the ongoing Commonwealth Games 2022 on Saturday (July 30) by clinching a silver medal in the men's 55kg category.

Weightlifter Sanket Sargar opened India's medal account at the ongoing Commonwealth Games 2022 on Saturday (July 30) by clinching a silver medal in the men's 55kg category. Sargar finished second behind Malaysia's Bin Kasdan Mohammad Aniq in the final and missed out on the elusive gold medal by just 1 kg. It was a thrilling finish to the final as Sargar didn't deter from his last attempt despite an injury. The 21-year-old Indian looked on course to win a gold medal, but an injury during his second attempt in the clean and jerk round saw him finish second. Nonetheless, Sargar managed to clinch India's first medal at the Games this year and earned praise from all corners. Social media was flooded with wishes for the weightlifter with the likes of Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi, Olympic gold medallist Abhinav Bindra and former cricketer Virender Sehwag, among others, congratulating him on his medal. Also Read: Sanket Sargar wins India's first medal at Commonwealth Games 2022, bags silver in weightlifting "Exceptional effort by Sanket Sargar! His bagging the prestigious Silver is a great start for India at the Commonwealth Games. Congratulations to him and best wishes for all future endeavours," PM Modi wrote in a tweet. "Well done #SanketSargar for winning India it's first medal at the Commonwealth Games, brilliant effort. Proud of your Silver," wrote Sehwag in a tweet. Exceptional effort by Sanket Sargar! His bagging the prestigious Silver is a great start for India at the Commonwealth Games. Congratulations to him and best wishes for all future endeavours. pic.twitter.com/Pvjjaj0IGm — Narendra Modi (@narendramodi) July 30, 2022 × Well done #SanketSargar for winning India it's first medal at the Commonwealth Games, brilliant effort. Proud of your Silver #CWG . pic.twitter.com/5qJzMwevF8 — Virender Sehwag (@virendersehwag) July 30, 2022 × Congratulations Sanket Sargar for winning the Silver medal in Weightlifting (Men's 55kg) and opening India’s account at the Commonwealth Games 2022. Wishing you a swift and complete recovery from injury. — Abhinav A. Bindra OLY (@Abhinav_Bindra) July 30, 2022 × Congratulations Weightlifter Sanket Sargar wins silver, opens India's account in Birmingham #india #Birmingham2022 #mshami11 pic.twitter.com/oa42CJFVBV — Mohammad Shami (@MdShami11) July 30, 2022 × Heartiest congratulations, Sanket Sargar for opening India’s medal tally with a at #CommonwealthGames2022 in #Weightlifting India is proud of you, champ pic.twitter.com/FKxZFA94s0 — Robin Aiyuda Uthappa (@robbieuthappa) July 30, 2022 × Talking about the final, Sargar made a solid start and lifted 107 kg cleanly in his first attempt in the snatch round before successfully lifting 111 kg in his second attempt. He attained a healthy lead of 6 kg against Aniq by lifting 113 kg in his final third snatch attempt to head to the clean and jerk event with some advantage. Also Read: Commonwealth Games 2022: Weightlifter Gururaja Poojary wins bronze medal in 61kg category In the clean and jerk round, Sargar lifted 135 kg in his first attempt before injuring his shoulder during his second attempt. However, he attempted to lift 139 kg once again in his third attempt despite his injury but failed to do so. He lifted a total of 248 kg (113 + 135) overall to finish behind Aniq, who lifted an impressive 142 kg in his final clean and jerk attempt to take gold with an overall lift of 249 kg.

PM Modi, Virender Sehwag and others laud Sanket Sargar as he wins silver medal despite injury at CWG 2022

Weightlifter Gururaja Poojary clinched a bronze medal in the men's 61kg category at the Commonwealth Games, adding to India's tally here on Saturday.

Gururaja, a sliver medallist at the 2018 CWG at Gold Coast, lifted a total of 269kg (118kg+151kg) to finish in the third place.

Malaysia's Aznil Bin Bidin Muhamad grabbed the gold medal with a Games record lift of 285kg (127+158). Morea Baru of Papua New Guinea bagged the silver with a total lift of 273kg (121+152).

Also Read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/sanket-sargar-wins-indias-first-medal-at-commonwealth-games-2022-bags-silver-in-weightlifting-502018">Sanket Sargar wins India's first medal at Commonwealth Games 2022, bags silver in weightlifting</a>

It was India's second medal at the ongoing edition of the Games after Sanket Sagar won a silver in the men's 55kg category.

Weightlifter Gururaja Poojary clinched a bronze medal in the men's 61kg category at the Commonwealth Games, adding to India's tally here on Saturday. Gururaja, a sliver medallist at the 2018 CWG at Gold Coast, lifted a total of 269kg (118kg+151kg) to finish in the third place.

Weightlifter Gururaja Poojary clinched a bronze medal in the men's 61kg category at the Commonwealth Games, adding to India's tally here on Saturday. Gururaja, a sliver medallist at the 2018 CWG at Gold Coast, lifted a total of 269kg (118kg+151kg) to finish in the third place. Malaysia's Aznil Bin Bidin Muhamad grabbed the gold medal with a Games record lift of 285kg (127+158). Morea Baru of Papua New Guinea bagged the silver with a total lift of 273kg (121+152). Also Read: Sanket Sargar wins India's first medal at Commonwealth Games 2022, bags silver in weightlifting It was India's second medal at the ongoing edition of the Games after Sanket Sagar won a silver in the men's 55kg category.

Commonwealth Games 2022: Weightlifter Gururaja Poojary wins bronze medal in 61kg category

A four-member Pakistan badminton team, the standard squad size being eight, has made it to Birmingham against all odds. The players including Olympian Mahoor Shahzad were not even supposed to be here. The Pakistan Sports Board dropped badminton from its Commonwealth Games contingent earlier this month due to lack of funds, crushing their hopes before they found a last-minute sponsor in the country's Olympic body.

With government support also non-existent and private players only backing cricket, Shahzad says it is tough to be a sportsperson in her country even though there has been an increase in awareness around the racket sport over the last couple of years.

The 26-year-old Shahzad from Karachi, who became the first Pakistan badminton player to feature in the Olympics last year, is primarily a singles specialist but she had to play doubles too in a one-sided affair against a formidable India on Friday due to the small team size.

The same was the case with her women's double partner, Ghazala Siddique, who also had to pair up in the mixed doubles event. The male team members are Murad Ali and Irfan Saeed Bhatti.

"The other teams have eight players. Here, four of us have to play all the games. I am a singles player but had to play in doubles and mixed doubles as well. It becomes difficult to focus on one," Shahzad told PTI after the 0-5 loss to India.

Also Read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/sanket-sargar-wins-indias-first-medal-at-commonwealth-games-2022-bags-silver-in-weightlifting-502018">Sanket Sargar wins India's first medal at Commonwealth Games 2022, bags silver in weightlifting</a>

Both Shahzad and her doubles partner Siddique have government jobs but that salary is not enough to make their ends meet. For Shahzad, who hails from a business family, badminton is passion while Siddique doubles up as a sports teacher besides her government job to support her family that includes five siblings.

Shahzad's long term goal is to make the 2024 Paris Olympics but despite being around for a long time, she feels stuck as far as her career is concerned.

"In a country like Pakistan, it is very tough to train. You have to fend for yourself, there are no good coaches, you have to do fitness, gym on your own. There is no proper training centre back home.

"No players come to Pakistan and we don't play international events that much. So the level is stuck. I myself feel that my game is stuck and I need to train abroad to improve."

Siddiqui, on the other hand, started playing only five years ago and for her just being part of the national contingent is a real honour. The 28-year-old, who makes around 13,000 Indian rupees from her government job, can't put all her energies into the game due to her dual duties.

"Cricket is the only sport that gets support. I have to do two jobs as one is not enough to run the family. I am the eldest among five siblings so there is responsibility as well," Lahore-based Siddique said with a wry smile.

Also Read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/cwg-2022-14-year-old-squash-player-anahat-singh-debutant-abhay-singh-start-off-with-wins-502009">CWG 2022: 14-year-old Squash player Anahat Singh, debutant Abhay Singh start off with wins</a>

On Friday, the more experienced Shahzad got to face Indian superstar P V Sindhu, having already played against Saina Nehwal in the past. Her favourite player however is Chinese Taipei's Tai Tzu-ying.

"Sindhu came to me to shake hands after the game which was a good gesture. Compared to Saina, Sindhu comes across a lot more deceptive. Saina was much more aggressive when I played against her," added Shahzad.

Siddique is yet to speak to the Indian players till now but she already has a Indian friend from her university days in 2017. "During the World University Games in 2017, I became friends with an Indian. We spent a lot of time together and she even took care of me when I got unwell. I will never forget that."

A four-member Pakistan badminton team, the standard squad size being eight, has made it to Birmingham against all odds. The players including Olympian Mahoor Shahzad were not even supposed to be here.

A four-member Pakistan badminton team, the standard squad size being eight, has made it to Birmingham against all odds. The players including Olympian Mahoor Shahzad were not even supposed to be here. The Pakistan Sports Board dropped badminton from its Commonwealth Games contingent earlier this month due to lack of funds, crushing their hopes before they found a last-minute sponsor in the country's Olympic body. With government support also non-existent and private players only backing cricket, Shahzad says it is tough to be a sportsperson in her country even though there has been an increase in awareness around the racket sport over the last couple of years. The 26-year-old Shahzad from Karachi, who became the first Pakistan badminton player to feature in the Olympics last year, is primarily a singles specialist but she had to play doubles too in a one-sided affair against a formidable India on Friday due to the small team size. The same was the case with her women's double partner, Ghazala Siddique, who also had to pair up in the mixed doubles event. The male team members are Murad Ali and Irfan Saeed Bhatti. "The other teams have eight players. Here, four of us have to play all the games. I am a singles player but had to play in doubles and mixed doubles as well. It becomes difficult to focus on one," Shahzad told PTI after the 0-5 loss to India. Also Read: Sanket Sargar wins India's first medal at Commonwealth Games 2022, bags silver in weightlifting Both Shahzad and her doubles partner Siddique have government jobs but that salary is not enough to make their ends meet. For Shahzad, who hails from a business family, badminton is passion while Siddique doubles up as a sports teacher besides her government job to support her family that includes five siblings. Shahzad's long term goal is to make the 2024 Paris Olympics but despite being around for a long time, she feels stuck as far as her career is concerned. "In a country like Pakistan, it is very tough to train. You have to fend for yourself, there are no good coaches, you have to do fitness, gym on your own. There is no proper training centre back home. "No players come to Pakistan and we don't play international events that much. So the level is stuck. I myself feel that my game is stuck and I need to train abroad to improve." Siddiqui, on the other hand, started playing only five years ago and for her just being part of the national contingent is a real honour. The 28-year-old, who makes around 13,000 Indian rupees from her government job, can't put all her energies into the game due to her dual duties. "Cricket is the only sport that gets support. I have to do two jobs as one is not enough to run the family. I am the eldest among five siblings so there is responsibility as well," Lahore-based Siddique said with a wry smile. Also Read: CWG 2022: 14-year-old Squash player Anahat Singh, debutant Abhay Singh start off with wins On Friday, the more experienced Shahzad got to face Indian superstar P V Sindhu, having already played against Saina Nehwal in the past. Her favourite player however is Chinese Taipei's Tai Tzu-ying. "Sindhu came to me to shake hands after the game which was a good gesture. Compared to Saina, Sindhu comes across a lot more deceptive. Saina was much more aggressive when I played against her," added Shahzad. Siddique is yet to speak to the Indian players till now but she already has a Indian friend from her university days in 2017. "During the World University Games in 2017, I became friends with an Indian. We spent a lot of time together and she even took care of me when I got unwell. I will never forget that."

Dropped by govt, Pakistan badminton contingent finds last minute sponsor to reach Birmingham

Former Bayern Munich striker Robert Lewandowski has slammed the Bundesliga giants for 'lying' to the fans over his exit terms this summer. Lewandowski, who enjoyed a stunning 8-year spell at Bayern, left the German club this summer to secure a switch to Barcelona in a deal worth around 50 million euros.&nbsp;

Lewandowski had made it clear to Bayern this summer that he wanted to leave the club with FC Barcelona interested in his services. The Polish striker, who had one year left on his contract, was not willing to sign an extension and remained firm on leaving despite Bayern publically claiming he was not for sale.

The Polish striker, who played an instrumental role in Bayern Munich's success over the last few years, recently opened up on his move to Barcelona and denied the reports that he wanted to leave due to Erlin Haaland's potential arrival at the club. Norweigan striker Haaland was heavily linked with Bayern before completing a move to Manchester City earlier this summer.&nbsp;

Also Read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/wagatha-libel-case-coleen-rooney-triumphs-vs-fellow-england-football-wife-rebekah-vardy-501735">Wagatha libel case: Coleen Rooney triumphs vs fellow England football wife Rebekah Vardy</a>

"(My exit)&nbsp;had nothing to do with Erling [Haaland]," Lewandowski told ESPN when asked if Haaland's potential arrival was one of the reasons behind his departure from Bayern.&nbsp;

"I am the guy who even if something's not good for me -- truth is more important. I don't want to speak about what happened exactly. But if the question is if the decision to move was because of him, no, I didn't see the problem if he joined Bayern Munich," he added.

Lewandowski then went on to slam Bayern Munich for internal politics at the club and feeding wrong information to the fans about his move to Barcelona. The 33-year-old striker, who was one of the favourites to win the Ballon d'Or in 2020, said a lot of 'bullsh*t' was spoken about him by the club before his transfer to Barcelona.

Also Read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/cristiano-ronaldo-eager-to-exit-man-utd-to-not-lose-ucl-record-to-arch-rival-lionel-messi-report-501718">Cristiano Ronaldo eager to exit Man Utd to not lose UCL record to arch-rival Lionel Messi: Report</a>

"But some kind of people doesn't say to me the truth, say something different. And for me it was always important to be clear, to stay true, and maybe for a few people that was the problem. And in the end I know that something doesn't work well with my person as well and I knew that, OK I see and I feel that maybe it's a good time to move out of Bayern Munich and join Barcelona," Lewandowski told ESPN about his move.

"I had a very good relationship with my teammates, with the staff, with the coach, and these are all things I'm going to miss because I spent a beautiful time there. And we were not only friends from the pitch but also something more. But in the end this chapter is over and I open a new chapter in my life and a new chapter in my career.

"So I feel that I'm in the right position, right place. So everything that's happened in the last maybe few weeks before I left Bayern Munich, that was also of course a lot of politics. The club tried to find an argument why they can sell me to another club because before it was difficult to explain maybe to the fans. And I had to accept that even though it was a lot of bullsh*t, a lot of sh*t said about me. Not true, but in the end I knew that the fans, even in this period, still support me a lot," he added.

Former Bayern Munich striker Robert Lewandowski has slammed the Bundesliga giants for 'lying' to the fans over his exit terms this summer. Lewandowski, who enjoyed a stunning 8-year spell at Bayern, left the German club this summer to secure a switch to Barcelona in a deal worth around 50 million euros.

Former Bayern Munich striker Robert Lewandowski has slammed the Bundesliga giants for 'lying' to the fans over his exit terms this summer. Lewandowski, who enjoyed a stunning 8-year spell at Bayern, left the German club this summer to secure a switch to Barcelona in a deal worth around 50 million euros. Lewandowski had made it clear to Bayern this summer that he wanted to leave the club with FC Barcelona interested in his services. The Polish striker, who had one year left on his contract, was not willing to sign an extension and remained firm on leaving despite Bayern publically claiming he was not for sale. The Polish striker, who played an instrumental role in Bayern Munich's success over the last few years, recently opened up on his move to Barcelona and denied the reports that he wanted to leave due to Erlin Haaland's potential arrival at the club. Norweigan striker Haaland was heavily linked with Bayern before completing a move to Manchester City earlier this summer. Also Read: Wagatha libel case: Coleen Rooney triumphs vs fellow England football wife Rebekah Vardy "(My exit) had nothing to do with Erling [Haaland]," Lewandowski told ESPN when asked if Haaland's potential arrival was one of the reasons behind his departure from Bayern. "I am the guy who even if something's not good for me -- truth is more important. I don't want to speak about what happened exactly. But if the question is if the decision to move was because of him, no, I didn't see the problem if he joined Bayern Munich," he added. Lewandowski then went on to slam Bayern Munich for internal politics at the club and feeding wrong information to the fans about his move to Barcelona. The 33-year-old striker, who was one of the favourites to win the Ballon d'Or in 2020, said a lot of 'bullsh*t' was spoken about him by the club before his transfer to Barcelona. Also Read: Cristiano Ronaldo eager to exit Man Utd to not lose UCL record to arch-rival Lionel Messi: Report "But some kind of people doesn't say to me the truth, say something different. And for me it was always important to be clear, to stay true, and maybe for a few people that was the problem. And in the end I know that something doesn't work well with my person as well and I knew that, OK I see and I feel that maybe it's a good time to move out of Bayern Munich and join Barcelona," Lewandowski told ESPN about his move. "I had a very good relationship with my teammates, with the staff, with the coach, and these are all things I'm going to miss because I spent a beautiful time there. And we were not only friends from the pitch but also something more. But in the end this chapter is over and I open a new chapter in my life and a new chapter in my career. "So I feel that I'm in the right position, right place. So everything that's happened in the last maybe few weeks before I left Bayern Munich, that was also of course a lot of politics. The club tried to find an argument why they can sell me to another club because before it was difficult to explain maybe to the fans. And I had to accept that even though it was a lot of bullsh*t, a lot of sh*t said about me. Not true, but in the end I knew that the fans, even in this period, still support me a lot," he added.

'A lot of sh*t was said about me': Robert Lewandowski lashes out at Bayern Munich after joining Barcelona

Weightlifter Sanket Sargar brought an end to the wait for India's first medal at the ongoing Commonwealth Games 202 on Saturday (July 30) as he went on to bag a silver medal in the men's 55kg category. Sargar opened India's medal tally at the Birmingham Games by lifting a total of 248 kg in the final.

Sargar lifted 113 kg in snatch and followed it up with a lift of 135 kg in the clean and jerk category to finish second behind Malayasia's Bin Kasdan Mohammad Aniq, who bagged the elusive gold medal after lifting a total of 249 kg in the final which was a hard-fought contest between the two weightlifters.

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🇮🇳 wins its st at <a href="https://twitter.com/birminghamcg22?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@birminghamcg22</a> <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/SanketSargar?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#SanketSargar</a> in a smashing performance lifted a total of 248 Kg in 55kg Men’s to clinch at <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/B2022?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#B2022</a> 
 
Sanket topped Snatch with best lift of 113kg &amp; lifted 135kg in C&amp;J 
 
Congratulations Champ! 
Wish you a speedy recovery<a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/Cheer4India?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#Cheer4India</a> <a href="https://t.co/oDGLYxFGAA">pic.twitter.com/oDGLYxFGAA</a>
— SAI Media (@Media_SAI) <a href="https://twitter.com/Media_SAI/status/1553323906563710976?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">July 30, 2022</a></blockquote>
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Sri Lanka's Dilanka Isuru umara Yodage finished third in the men's 55kg weightlifting final with an overall lift of 225 kg (105+120). Sargar dominated the proceedings at the start of the final with an impressive show in the snatch category. The 21-year-old Indian weightlifter started with a lift of 107kg in his first attempt.

Also Read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/cwg-2022-14-year-old-squash-player-anahat-singh-debutant-abhay-singh-start-off-with-wins-502009">CWG 2022: 14-year-old Squash player Anahat Singh, debutant Abhay Singh start off with wins</a>

There was no looking back for him as he improved his lift to 111kg in his second attempt and eventually finished with 113kg in the snatch phase to be in a strong position ahead of the clean and jerk event. With his 113kg lift in the snatch event, Sargar had a lead of six kg ahead of the clean and jerk category and he ensured a medal by lifting 135 kg in his first attempt in clean and jerk.

Also Read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/india-at-commonwealth-games-2022-day-2-full-schedule-mirabai-chanu-and-lovlina-boroghain-in-action-501940">India at Commonwealth Games 2022, Day 2 full schedule: Mirabai Chanu and Lovlina Borgohain in action</a>

However, in what turned out to be a thrilling final, it was a heartbreak for Sargar towards the end as he suffered an injury while lifting 139kg in his second attempt in the clean and jerk round. He did return to attempt 139kg which would have confirmed the gold for him but he missed out by just 1&nbsp;kg&nbsp;due to his injury.

Meanwhile, Aniq lifted a whopping 142kg in his final attempt in the clean and jerk round to set a Commonwealth Games record and bag the gold medal. He had lifted 107 kg in the snatch round and had fouled while attempting 111 and 113 kg.&nbsp;

&nbsp;

Weightlifter Sanket Sargar brought an end to the wait for India's first medal at the ongoing Commonwealth Games 202 on Saturday (July 30) as he went on to bag a silver medal in the men's 55kg category.

Weightlifter Sanket Sargar brought an end to the wait for India's first medal at the ongoing Commonwealth Games 202 on Saturday (July 30) as he went on to bag a silver medal in the men's 55kg category. Sargar opened India's medal tally at the Birmingham Games by lifting a total of 248 kg in the final. Sargar lifted 113 kg in snatch and followed it up with a lift of 135 kg in the clean and jerk category to finish second behind Malayasia's Bin Kasdan Mohammad Aniq, who bagged the elusive gold medal after lifting a total of 249 kg in the final which was a hard-fought contest between the two weightlifters. 🇮🇳 wins its st at @birminghamcg22 #SanketSargar in a smashing performance lifted a total of 248 Kg in 55kg Men’s to clinch at #B2022 Sanket topped Snatch with best lift of 113kg & lifted 135kg in C&J Congratulations Champ! Wish you a speedy recovery#Cheer4India pic.twitter.com/oDGLYxFGAA — SAI Media (@Media_SAI) July 30, 2022 × Sri Lanka's Dilanka Isuru umara Yodage finished third in the men's 55kg weightlifting final with an overall lift of 225 kg (105+120). Sargar dominated the proceedings at the start of the final with an impressive show in the snatch category. The 21-year-old Indian weightlifter started with a lift of 107kg in his first attempt. Also Read: CWG 2022: 14-year-old Squash player Anahat Singh, debutant Abhay Singh start off with wins There was no looking back for him as he improved his lift to 111kg in his second attempt and eventually finished with 113kg in the snatch phase to be in a strong position ahead of the clean and jerk event. With his 113kg lift in the snatch event, Sargar had a lead of six kg ahead of the clean and jerk category and he ensured a medal by lifting 135 kg in his first attempt in clean and jerk. Also Read: India at Commonwealth Games 2022, Day 2 full schedule: Mirabai Chanu and Lovlina Borgohain in action However, in what turned out to be a thrilling final, it was a heartbreak for Sargar towards the end as he suffered an injury while lifting 139kg in his second attempt in the clean and jerk round. He did return to attempt 139kg which would have confirmed the gold for him but he missed out by just 1 kg due to his injury. Meanwhile, Aniq lifted a whopping 142kg in his final attempt in the clean and jerk round to set a Commonwealth Games record and bag the gold medal. He had lifted 107 kg in the snatch round and had fouled while attempting 111 and 113 kg.

Sanket Sargar wins India's first medal at Commonwealth Games 2022, bags silver in weightlifting

Indian Squash team kickstarted its Commonwealth Games 2022 campaign with two solid victories, with 14-year-old Anahat Singh and debutant Abhay Singh advancing to the round of 32 stage. Anahat, the youngest member of India`s CWG contingent, defeated Jada Ross of Saint Vincente and the Grenadines in her women`s singles round of 64 match.

She won the game by a margin of 11-5, 11-2, 11-0. The youngster was hard to play against and secured the win within three straight games to qualify for the round of 32. "#Squash Update Youngest member of the Indian Contingent for #CWG2022 14-yr old Anahat Singh wins her debut match at @birminghamcg22 Anahat defeats Jada Ross (SVG) - (11-5, 11-2, 11-0) in WS event and advances to the Round of 32 Keep it up Anahat!! #Cheer4India," tweeted SAI Media.

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Youngest member of the Indian Contingent for <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/CWG2022?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#CWG2022</a> 14-yr old Anahat Singh wins her debut match at <a href="https://twitter.com/birminghamcg22?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@birminghamcg22</a> 
 
Anahat defeats Jada Ross (SVG) (11-5, 11-2, 11-0) in WS event and advances to the Round of 32 
 
Keep it up Anahat!!<a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/Cheer4India?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#Cheer4India</a> <a href="https://t.co/5XCtYCRQBE">pic.twitter.com/5XCtYCRQBE</a>
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Abhay, representing India in his first-ever CWG defeated Joe Chapman of British Virgin Islands in his round of 64 match. He won the match by 11-5, 11-5, 11-5. He did not give Chapman any chance to make a comeback and secured the win within just three games, with two more to go.

Also Read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/commonwealth-games-2022-ghanaian-boxer-shakul-samed-suspended-after-failed-dope-test-501985">Commonwealth Games 2022: Ghanaian Boxer Shakul Samed suspended after failed dope test</a>

He will now face Alan Clyne of Scotland in his round of 32 match. "#Squash Update Debutant @abhaysinghk98 begins his campaign at CWG @birminghamcg22with a - victory over Joe Chapman (IVB); score: 11-5, 11-5, 11-5 He will next face Alan Clyne (SCO) in the Round of 32 Good Luck #Cheer4India #IndiaTaiyaarHai #India4CWG2022," tweeted SAI Media.

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Debutant <a href="https://twitter.com/abhaysinghk98?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@abhaysinghk98</a> begins his campaign at CWG <a href="https://twitter.com/birminghamcg22?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@birminghamcg22</a> with a victory over Joe Chapman (IVB); score: 11-5, 11-5, 11-5 
 
He will next face Alan Clyne (SCO) in the Round of 32 
 
Good Luck <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/Cheer4India?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#Cheer4India</a> <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/IndiaTaiyaarHai?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#IndiaTaiyaarHai</a><a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/India4CWG2022?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#India4CWG2022</a> <a href="https://t.co/tk3Zh7EJmR">pic.twitter.com/tk3Zh7EJmR</a>
— SAI Media (@Media_SAI) <a href="https://twitter.com/Media_SAI/status/1553101102954213376?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">July 29, 2022</a></blockquote>
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Also Read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/india-at-commonwealth-games-2022-day-2-full-schedule-mirabai-chanu-and-lovlina-boroghain-in-action-501940">India at Commonwealth Games 2022, Day 2 full schedule: Mirabai Chanu and Lovlina Borgohain in action</a>

Coming to Squash, here are the matches scheduled for today: -Men`s singles round of 32--Ramit Tandon Vs Christopher Binnie (Jamaica)-Women`s singles round of 32--Joshana Chinappa Vs TBD-Women`s singles round of 32--Sunayna Sara Kuruvilla Vs Aifa Azman (Malaysia)-Men`s singles round of 32--Saurav Ghosal vs TBD.

Commonwealth Games 2022 started from Birmingham on July 28 and will go on till August 8. India is being represented by 215 athletes who will take part in 141 events across 19 sporting disciplines.

Indian Squash team kickstarted its Commonwealth Games 2022 campaign with two solid victories, with 14-year-old Anahat Singh and debutant Abhay Singh advancing to the round of 32 stage.

Indian Squash team kickstarted its Commonwealth Games 2022 campaign with two solid victories, with 14-year-old Anahat Singh and debutant Abhay Singh advancing to the round of 32 stage. Anahat, the youngest member of India`s CWG contingent, defeated Jada Ross of Saint Vincente and the Grenadines in her women`s singles round of 64 match. She won the game by a margin of 11-5, 11-2, 11-0. The youngster was hard to play against and secured the win within three straight games to qualify for the round of 32. "#Squash Update Youngest member of the Indian Contingent for #CWG2022 14-yr old Anahat Singh wins her debut match at @birminghamcg22 Anahat defeats Jada Ross (SVG) - (11-5, 11-2, 11-0) in WS event and advances to the Round of 32 Keep it up Anahat!! #Cheer4India," tweeted SAI Media. #Squash Update Youngest member of the Indian Contingent for #CWG2022 14-yr old Anahat Singh wins her debut match at @birminghamcg22 Anahat defeats Jada Ross (SVG) (11-5, 11-2, 11-0) in WS event and advances to the Round of 32 Keep it up Anahat!!#Cheer4India pic.twitter.com/5XCtYCRQBE — SAI Media (@Media_SAI) July 29, 2022 × Abhay, representing India in his first-ever CWG defeated Joe Chapman of British Virgin Islands in his round of 64 match. He won the match by 11-5, 11-5, 11-5. He did not give Chapman any chance to make a comeback and secured the win within just three games, with two more to go. Also Read: Commonwealth Games 2022: Ghanaian Boxer Shakul Samed suspended after failed dope test He will now face Alan Clyne of Scotland in his round of 32 match. "#Squash Update Debutant @abhaysinghk98 begins his campaign at CWG @birminghamcg22with a - victory over Joe Chapman (IVB); score: 11-5, 11-5, 11-5 He will next face Alan Clyne (SCO) in the Round of 32 Good Luck #Cheer4India #IndiaTaiyaarHai #India4CWG2022," tweeted SAI Media. #Squash Update Debutant @abhaysinghk98 begins his campaign at CWG @birminghamcg22 with a victory over Joe Chapman (IVB); score: 11-5, 11-5, 11-5 He will next face Alan Clyne (SCO) in the Round of 32 Good Luck #Cheer4India #IndiaTaiyaarHai#India4CWG2022 pic.twitter.com/tk3Zh7EJmR — SAI Media (@Media_SAI) July 29, 2022 × Also Read: India at Commonwealth Games 2022, Day 2 full schedule: Mirabai Chanu and Lovlina Borgohain in action Coming to Squash, here are the matches scheduled for today: -Men`s singles round of 32--Ramit Tandon Vs Christopher Binnie (Jamaica)-Women`s singles round of 32--Joshana Chinappa Vs TBD-Women`s singles round of 32--Sunayna Sara Kuruvilla Vs Aifa Azman (Malaysia)-Men`s singles round of 32--Saurav Ghosal vs TBD. Commonwealth Games 2022 started from Birmingham on July 28 and will go on till August 8. India is being represented by 215 athletes who will take part in 141 events across 19 sporting disciplines.

CWG 2022: 14-year-old Squash player Anahat Singh, debutant Abhay Singh start off with wins

Former India cricketer and ex-chairman of selectors Krish Srikanth has slammed the Indian team management for picking Shreyas Iyer over in-form Deepak Hooda in the first T20I against West Indies at the Brian Lara Stadium in Trinidad on Friday. Iyer was dismissed on a 4-ball duck in the game as the debate over his inclusion further intensified.

Hooda, who had recently become only the fifth Indian batter to score a century in T20Is, was surprisingly snubbed from the playing XI for the series-opener against West Indies on Friday leaving many baffled. Questions were raised further on his absence after Iyer's flop show in the game.

Iyer came out to bat at number three for India and was dismissed on a duck after facing just four deliveries. He was caught by Akeal Hosein off the bowling of pacer Obed McCoy. Former India cricketer Srikanth questioned head coach Rahul Dravid and the team management for picking Iyer despite Hooda being in the squad.

“Where is Hooda? He did well in T20Is, He did well in ODIs as well. He is the guy who should be there. In T20 cricket you need to understand, that you need all-rounders. Batting all-rounders, bowling all-rounders, so more the all-rounders better for you," Srikanth said on FanCode.

Also Read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/who-can-stop-him-now-bcci-selector-on-dinesh-karthiks-chances-of-making-it-to-indias-t20-world-cup-squad-501989">'Who can stop him now?': BCCI selector on Karthik's chances of making it to India's T20 World Cup squad</a>

Srikanth's comments during a panel discussion of which former India spinner Pragyan Ojha was also a part. While Srikanth slammed Dravid over Hooda's absence from the playing XI, Ojha defended the Indian head coach. “Rahul bhai believes that if a player performed for you first then play him and back him. Then you go ahead with the other options,” Ojha said defending Dravid.

However, Srikanth was furious with India's decision to bench Hooda for Iyer and said the team doesn't need Dravid's thinking. He interrupted Ojha in the middle of the debate and said - "Rahul Dravid ka soch humko nehi chaiye. Aapka soch chaiye. Abhi chaiye. Abhi do. (We don't need Rahul Dravid's thinking, we need your views, give your views."

"Hooda toh hona chaiye. Obviously Hooda. (Hooda should have been there. Obviously Hooda)," said Ojha before Srikanth concluded by saying - "Bas, Khatam (That's it)."

Also Read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/i-didnt-understand-it-mohammad-kaif-slams-team-india-for-not-bacing-rishabh-pant-as-opener-in-t20is-501977">'I didn't understand it': Mohammad Kaif slams Team India for not backing Rishabh Pant as opener in T20Is</a>

Batting first during the 1st T20I, captain Rohit Sharma opened the innings with Surykumar Yadav and the duo added 44 runs for the first wicket. Iyer then departed cheaply before Rohit added 43 runs for the second wicket with Rishabh Pant (14). Rohit played a fantastic knock of 44-ball 64 laced with 7 fours and 2 sixes.

India were propelled to a strong total of 190 runs with the help of Dinesh Karthik's finishing cameo of unbeaten 19-ball 41. India went on to win the game comprehensively by 68 runs to take a 1-0 lead in the five-match series after restricting West Indies cheaply on 122/8 in 20 overs.

Former India cricketer and ex-chairman of selectors Krish Srikanth has slammed the Indian team management for picking Shreyas Iyer over in-form Deepak Hooda in the first T20I against West Indies at the Brian Lara Stadium in Trinidad on Friday.

Former India cricketer and ex-chairman of selectors Krish Srikanth has slammed the Indian team management for picking Shreyas Iyer over in-form Deepak Hooda in the first T20I against West Indies at the Brian Lara Stadium in Trinidad on Friday. Iyer was dismissed on a 4-ball duck in the game as the debate over his inclusion further intensified. Hooda, who had recently become only the fifth Indian batter to score a century in T20Is, was surprisingly snubbed from the playing XI for the series-opener against West Indies on Friday leaving many baffled. Questions were raised further on his absence after Iyer's flop show in the game. Iyer came out to bat at number three for India and was dismissed on a duck after facing just four deliveries. He was caught by Akeal Hosein off the bowling of pacer Obed McCoy. Former India cricketer Srikanth questioned head coach Rahul Dravid and the team management for picking Iyer despite Hooda being in the squad. “Where is Hooda? He did well in T20Is, He did well in ODIs as well. He is the guy who should be there. In T20 cricket you need to understand, that you need all-rounders. Batting all-rounders, bowling all-rounders, so more the all-rounders better for you," Srikanth said on FanCode. Also Read: 'Who can stop him now?': BCCI selector on Karthik's chances of making it to India's T20 World Cup squad Srikanth's comments during a panel discussion of which former India spinner Pragyan Ojha was also a part. While Srikanth slammed Dravid over Hooda's absence from the playing XI, Ojha defended the Indian head coach. “Rahul bhai believes that if a player performed for you first then play him and back him. Then you go ahead with the other options,” Ojha said defending Dravid. However, Srikanth was furious with India's decision to bench Hooda for Iyer and said the team doesn't need Dravid's thinking. He interrupted Ojha in the middle of the debate and said - "Rahul Dravid ka soch humko nehi chaiye. Aapka soch chaiye. Abhi chaiye. Abhi do. (We don't need Rahul Dravid's thinking, we need your views, give your views." "Hooda toh hona chaiye. Obviously Hooda. (Hooda should have been there. Obviously Hooda)," said Ojha before Srikanth concluded by saying - "Bas, Khatam (That's it)." Also Read: 'I didn't understand it': Mohammad Kaif slams Team India for not backing Rishabh Pant as opener in T20Is Batting first during the 1st T20I, captain Rohit Sharma opened the innings with Surykumar Yadav and the duo added 44 runs for the first wicket. Iyer then departed cheaply before Rohit added 43 runs for the second wicket with Rishabh Pant (14). Rohit played a fantastic knock of 44-ball 64 laced with 7 fours and 2 sixes. India were propelled to a strong total of 190 runs with the help of Dinesh Karthik's finishing cameo of unbeaten 19-ball 41. India went on to win the game comprehensively by 68 runs to take a 1-0 lead in the five-match series after restricting West Indies cheaply on 122/8 in 20 overs.

'We don't need Dravid's thinking': Kris Srikanth criticises India for picking Iyer over Hooda in 1st T20I

Dinesh Karthik seems all but certain to make the cut in India's squad for the upcoming T20 World Cup 2022 as he continues to enjoy a stellar run with the willow. Karthik had a phenomenal season as a finisher for Royal Challengers Bangalore (RCB) in the Indian Premier League (IPL) 2022 earlier this year and has been unstoppable ever since.

At one stage it looked like Karthik's international career was done and dusted but the veteran wicket-keeper batter has managed to spark a sensational turnaround this year. From not being in the reckoning for the Indian team, Karthik seems to have cemented his spot as a finisher in the Indian T20I team ahead of the World Cup.

Karthik continued his purple patch in the 1st T20I between India and West Indies at the Brian Lara Stadium in Trinidad on Friday. The 37-year-old once again proved why he is currently India's best finisher as far as the shortest format is concerned with a terrific knock of unbeaten 41 off just 19 balls.

Karthik came out to bat at number 7 and went berserk from the word go. His quickfire 41 was laced with 4 fours and 2 sixes helping India post a strong total of 190 runs on the board in 20 overs. After his impressive knock, a member of the Indian selection panel opened up on Karthik's chances of making it to the T20 World Cup 2022 squad.

Also Read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/i-didnt-understand-it-mohammad-kaif-slams-team-india-for-not-bacing-rishabh-pant-as-opener-in-t20is-501977">'I didn't understand it': Md.&nbsp;Kaif slams Team India for not backing Rishabh Pant as opener in T20Is</a>

The Indian selector said Karthik is now a certainty in India's squad for the T20 World Cup in Australia this year after his recent batting exploits while insisting that his experience will be a huge asset for the Indian team at the showpiece event Down Under.

"Who can stop Dinesh Karthik now? He is certainty now for T20 World Cup in Australia. He is consistent in his approach and most importantly consistently delivering via his approach. His experience will now be a big asset," the member of the Indian selection panel was quoted as saying by InsideSport.

"No formal talk has happened on the subject. Informally when we speak, all are very impressed with him and his attitude," he added.

Karthik has been consistent in the lower-middle order and has mastered the art of finishing for Team India. The 37-year-old has played some brilliant knocks for India over the last few months and has already cemented his spot in the T20 World Cup 2022 squad.

Also Read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/india-vs-west-indies-1st-t20i-rohit-sharma-and-dinesh-karthiks-set-up-a-convincing-68-runs-victory-501945">India vs West Indies, 1st T20I; Rohit Sharma and Dinesh Karthik set up a convincing 68-runs victory</a>

Thanks to Karthik's finishing cameo and captain Rohit&nbsp;Sharma's brilliant 64-run knock, India thrashed West Indies by 68 runs in the first T20I on Friday to go 1-0 up in the five-match series. Speaking about his performance post the game, Karthik said the ultimate aim remains to do well in the T20 World Cup for India this year.

“I think it’s a very very different team. I must admit that I am really enjoying myself in this setup. The kind of calmness that seems to be around, a lot of credit should go to the coach and captain. These are all small tick-boxes that we need to have at this stage of the game. But obviously, the ultimate goal is to do well in the World Cup,” said Karthik.

Dinesh Karthik seems all but certain to make the cut in India's squad for the upcoming T20 World Cup 2022 as he continues to enjoy a stellar run with the willow.

Dinesh Karthik seems all but certain to make the cut in India's squad for the upcoming T20 World Cup 2022 as he continues to enjoy a stellar run with the willow. Karthik had a phenomenal season as a finisher for Royal Challengers Bangalore (RCB) in the Indian Premier League (IPL) 2022 earlier this year and has been unstoppable ever since. At one stage it looked like Karthik's international career was done and dusted but the veteran wicket-keeper batter has managed to spark a sensational turnaround this year. From not being in the reckoning for the Indian team, Karthik seems to have cemented his spot as a finisher in the Indian T20I team ahead of the World Cup. Karthik continued his purple patch in the 1st T20I between India and West Indies at the Brian Lara Stadium in Trinidad on Friday. The 37-year-old once again proved why he is currently India's best finisher as far as the shortest format is concerned with a terrific knock of unbeaten 41 off just 19 balls. Karthik came out to bat at number 7 and went berserk from the word go. His quickfire 41 was laced with 4 fours and 2 sixes helping India post a strong total of 190 runs on the board in 20 overs. After his impressive knock, a member of the Indian selection panel opened up on Karthik's chances of making it to the T20 World Cup 2022 squad. Also Read: 'I didn't understand it': Md. Kaif slams Team India for not backing Rishabh Pant as opener in T20Is The Indian selector said Karthik is now a certainty in India's squad for the T20 World Cup in Australia this year after his recent batting exploits while insisting that his experience will be a huge asset for the Indian team at the showpiece event Down Under. "Who can stop Dinesh Karthik now? He is certainty now for T20 World Cup in Australia. He is consistent in his approach and most importantly consistently delivering via his approach. His experience will now be a big asset," the member of the Indian selection panel was quoted as saying by InsideSport. "No formal talk has happened on the subject. Informally when we speak, all are very impressed with him and his attitude," he added. Karthik has been consistent in the lower-middle order and has mastered the art of finishing for Team India. The 37-year-old has played some brilliant knocks for India over the last few months and has already cemented his spot in the T20 World Cup 2022 squad. Also Read: India vs West Indies, 1st T20I; Rohit Sharma and Dinesh Karthik set up a convincing 68-runs victory Thanks to Karthik's finishing cameo and captain Rohit Sharma's brilliant 64-run knock, India thrashed West Indies by 68 runs in the first T20I on Friday to go 1-0 up in the five-match series. Speaking about his performance post the game, Karthik said the ultimate aim remains to do well in the T20 World Cup for India this year. “I think it’s a very very different team. I must admit that I am really enjoying myself in this setup. The kind of calmness that seems to be around, a lot of credit should go to the coach and captain. These are all small tick-boxes that we need to have at this stage of the game. But obviously, the ultimate goal is to do well in the World Cup,” said Karthik.

'Who can stop him now?': BCCI selector on Dinesh Karthik's chances of making it to India's T20 World Cup squad

Former India cricketer Mohammad Kaif has slammed the Indian team management for not backing Rishabh Pant as an opener in T20Is. Like many, Kaif was left surprised when Suryakumar Yadav walked in to open the batting with captain Rohit Sharma in the 1t T20I of the ongoing five-match series against West Indies at the Brian Lara Stadium in Trinidad on Friday (July 29).

Despite having Ishan Kishan in the squad, India have been experimenting continuously in T20Is as far as the opening slots are considered. While Rohit's position as an opener remains unchallenged, a number of other batters have been tried in the second opening slot, including Pant.

Pant had opened for India in the T20I series against England earlier this month and had impressed with his swashbuckling batting display. Kaif believes India should have persisted with the left-hand wicket-keeper batter at the top and played Suryakumar, who is a middle-order batter in his actual position.

Kaif said he couldn't quite understand India's strategy behind opening the batting with Suryakumar while criticising the team management for not giving Pant enough opportunities on top of the order. He also pointed out how Suryakumar will be the best fit for India at 4 and it makes no sense to open the batting with him.

Also Read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/india-vs-west-indies-1st-t20i-rohit-sharma-and-dinesh-karthiks-set-up-a-convincing-68-runs-victory-501945">India vs West Indies, 1st T20I; Rohit Sharma and Dinesh Karthik set up a convincing 68-runs victory</a>

"Whatever that was, I did not understand it at all. If you were trying Rishabh Pant as the opener for 2-3 matches, then you should have gone with him today as well. Give him at least five chances. And this strategy of captain Rohit Sharma and coach Rahul Dravid, they back the players at least 5-6 matches,” Kaif said on FanCode.

“But this did not happen with Pant. And Suryakumar has the role of controlling the innings in the middle and adding those finishing touches. In fact, his role will remain as the No. 4 batter when Kohli and Rahul return. But Pant should have been tried. Clearly, I did not understand what happened. Ishan Kishan is also waiting," he added.

Talking about the first T20I, India got off to a winning start in the five-match series with a comprehensive victory by 68 runs in the series-opener at the Brian Lara Stadium. Captain Rohit led from the front with the bat with a brilliant knock of 64 runs while finisher Dinesh Karthik impressed again with an unbeaten 41 off just 19 balls to help India post a strong 190 runs on the board in 20 overs.

Also Read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/right-up-there-with-rohit-rahul-dhawan-former-nz-all-rounder-all-praise-for-indias-star-batter-501799">‘Right up there with Rohit, Rahul, Dhawan’: Former NZ all-rounder all praise for India's star batter</a>

In reply, West Indies were skittled out cheaply off just 122 runs after their batting line-up suffered a terrible collapse. Spinners R Ashwin and Ravi Bishnoi ran riot against the hosts' batting line-up picking up two wickets apiece while Arshdeep Singh also managed to pick two wickets while conceding only 24 runs off his 4 overs.

Former India cricketer Mohammad Kaif has slammed the Indian team management for not backing Rishabh Pant as an opener in T20Is. Like many, Kaif was left surprised when Suryakumar Yadav walked in to open the batting with captain Rohit Sharma in the 1t T20I of the ongoing five-match series against West Indies at the Brian Lara Stadium in Trinidad on Friday (July 29).

Former India cricketer Mohammad Kaif has slammed the Indian team management for not backing Rishabh Pant as an opener in T20Is. Like many, Kaif was left surprised when Suryakumar Yadav walked in to open the batting with captain Rohit Sharma in the 1t T20I of the ongoing five-match series against West Indies at the Brian Lara Stadium in Trinidad on Friday (July 29). Despite having Ishan Kishan in the squad, India have been experimenting continuously in T20Is as far as the opening slots are considered. While Rohit's position as an opener remains unchallenged, a number of other batters have been tried in the second opening slot, including Pant. Pant had opened for India in the T20I series against England earlier this month and had impressed with his swashbuckling batting display. Kaif believes India should have persisted with the left-hand wicket-keeper batter at the top and played Suryakumar, who is a middle-order batter in his actual position. Kaif said he couldn't quite understand India's strategy behind opening the batting with Suryakumar while criticising the team management for not giving Pant enough opportunities on top of the order. He also pointed out how Suryakumar will be the best fit for India at 4 and it makes no sense to open the batting with him. Also Read: India vs West Indies, 1st T20I; Rohit Sharma and Dinesh Karthik set up a convincing 68-runs victory "Whatever that was, I did not understand it at all. If you were trying Rishabh Pant as the opener for 2-3 matches, then you should have gone with him today as well. Give him at least five chances. And this strategy of captain Rohit Sharma and coach Rahul Dravid, they back the players at least 5-6 matches,” Kaif said on FanCode. “But this did not happen with Pant. And Suryakumar has the role of controlling the innings in the middle and adding those finishing touches. In fact, his role will remain as the No. 4 batter when Kohli and Rahul return. But Pant should have been tried. Clearly, I did not understand what happened. Ishan Kishan is also waiting," he added. Talking about the first T20I, India got off to a winning start in the five-match series with a comprehensive victory by 68 runs in the series-opener at the Brian Lara Stadium. Captain Rohit led from the front with the bat with a brilliant knock of 64 runs while finisher Dinesh Karthik impressed again with an unbeaten 41 off just 19 balls to help India post a strong 190 runs on the board in 20 overs. Also Read: ‘Right up there with Rohit, Rahul, Dhawan’: Former NZ all-rounder all praise for India's star batter In reply, West Indies were skittled out cheaply off just 122 runs after their batting line-up suffered a terrible collapse. Spinners R Ashwin and Ravi Bishnoi ran riot against the hosts' batting line-up picking up two wickets apiece while Arshdeep Singh also managed to pick two wickets while conceding only 24 runs off his 4 overs.

'I didn't understand it': Mohammad Kaif slams Team India for not backing Rishabh Pant as opener in T20Is

Ghanaian boxer Shakul Samed has been suspended from the Commonwealth Games after testing positive for a banned substance at the competition in Birmingham, officials said on Friday.

Samed`s A sample was found to contain the banned diuretic and masking agent Furosemide, the Commonwealth Games Federation said in a statement.

"He has therefore been suspended with immediate effect," the statement said.

"He will now have the opportunity to provide further information, including requesting analysis of his B sample, before any charge is issued."

Also Read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/india-at-commonwealth-games-2022-day-2-full-schedule-mirabai-chanu-and-lovlina-boroghain-in-action-501940">India at Commonwealth Games 2022, Day 2 full schedule: Mirabai Chanu and Lovlina Borgohain in action</a>

Samed could not be reached for comment and the Ghana Boxing Federation did not immediately respond to a request for comment.

The light-heavyweight boxer was scheduled to face Luc Jean Rosalba on Friday but did not show up for the weigh-in. 
Samed, who competed at the 2020 Tokyo Olympics, is the first athlete to fail a drug test at the Birmingham Games, which began on Friday.

Ghanaian boxer Shakul Samed has been suspended from the Commonwealth Games after testing positive for a banned substance at the competition in Birmingham, officials said on Friday.

Ghanaian boxer Shakul Samed has been suspended from the Commonwealth Games after testing positive for a banned substance at the competition in Birmingham, officials said on Friday. Samed`s A sample was found to contain the banned diuretic and masking agent Furosemide, the Commonwealth Games Federation said in a statement. "He has therefore been suspended with immediate effect," the statement said. "He will now have the opportunity to provide further information, including requesting analysis of his B sample, before any charge is issued." Also Read: India at Commonwealth Games 2022, Day 2 full schedule: Mirabai Chanu and Lovlina Borgohain in action Samed could not be reached for comment and the Ghana Boxing Federation did not immediately respond to a request for comment. The light-heavyweight boxer was scheduled to face Luc Jean Rosalba on Friday but did not show up for the weigh-in. Samed, who competed at the 2020 Tokyo Olympics, is the first athlete to fail a drug test at the Birmingham Games, which began on Friday.

Commonwealth Games 2022: Ghanaian Boxer Shakul Samed suspended after failed dope test

The Wagatha Christie trial: Coleen Rooney wins over Rebekah Vardy

Hosts England waltzed past Sweden into the Women`s Euro 2022 final with Beth Mead, Lucy Bronze, Alessia Russo and Fran Kirby all on target in a sensational 4-0 win in front of a frenzied sell-out crowd at Bramall Lane on Tuesday.

The Lionesses made a nervy start but once Mead produced a moment of brilliance to fire them ahead in the 34th minute it was one-way traffic for Sarina Wiegman`s side who became the first England women`s team to reach a major final since 2009.

England have now won 11 consecutive matches and will face either Germany or France, who meet on Wednesday, in a Wembley showdown on Sunday as they bid to win their first major trophy. Sweden, the second-ranked team in the world, had three big chances to take the lead early on and were denied by the woodwork and they paid a heavy price.

Mead produced a great turn on the edge of the area to power a shot beyond goalkeeper Hedvig Lindahl to give England a halftime lead that was barely deserved. But they turned on the style in the second half to crank up a party atmosphere inside the stadium.

Bronze headed England`s second in the 48th minute from a corner and Lauren Hemp somehow failed to make it 3-0 when she fired against the crossbar from substitute Russo`s low cross.

Also Read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/record-viewing-figures-for-womens-euro-2022-tournament-reveals-uefa-500916">Record viewing figures for Women’s Euro 2022 tournament, reveals UEFA</a>

Russo then produced an outstanding piece of improvisation to take the game away from Sweden, sending a cheeky back heel through the legs of goalkeeper Lindahl.

Kirby then put the icing on the cake with a flighted effort that Lindahl could only help into the back of the net. After that it was exhibition stuff for a rampant England side who will now take some stopping in Sunday`s final, especially with Mead in such scintillating form.

The Arsenal forward is the leading scorer at the tournament with six goals and two assists in five games so far. 
"I think at the full time whistle we didn`t really know what to do," Mead said as the adopted British sporting anthem "Sweet Caroline" echoed around the Yorkshire arena.

"It was an unbelievable atmosphere and we are excited to be in the final. The goal came at a good time because there was pressure on us and they had a few chances."

Also Read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/was-alex-ferguson-part-of-ronaldos-meeting-with-ten-hag-over-his-man-utd-future-heres-the-truth-500929">Was Alex Ferguson part of Ronaldo's meeting with Ten Hag over his Man UTD future? Here's the truth</a>

It was a chastening evening for Sweden who had looked the more likely side early on. There was less than a minute on the clock when Sofia Jakobsson got in behind England`s defence and forced a fine save from Mary Earps who denied Jakobsson again soon after.

Stina Blackstenius also headed against the bar but Sweden`s night was soon to disintegrate as England rode the wave of euphoria that has built throughout the tournament.

Hosts England waltzed past Sweden into the Women`s Euro 2022 final with Beth Mead, Lucy Bronze, Alessia Russo and Fran Kirby all on target in a sensational 4-0 win in front of a frenzied sell-out crowd at Bramall Lane on Tuesday.

Hosts England waltzed past Sweden into the Women`s Euro 2022 final with Beth Mead, Lucy Bronze, Alessia Russo and Fran Kirby all on target in a sensational 4-0 win in front of a frenzied sell-out crowd at Bramall Lane on Tuesday. The Lionesses made a nervy start but once Mead produced a moment of brilliance to fire them ahead in the 34th minute it was one-way traffic for Sarina Wiegman`s side who became the first England women`s team to reach a major final since 2009. England have now won 11 consecutive matches and will face either Germany or France, who meet on Wednesday, in a Wembley showdown on Sunday as they bid to win their first major trophy. Sweden, the second-ranked team in the world, had three big chances to take the lead early on and were denied by the woodwork and they paid a heavy price. Mead produced a great turn on the edge of the area to power a shot beyond goalkeeper Hedvig Lindahl to give England a halftime lead that was barely deserved. But they turned on the style in the second half to crank up a party atmosphere inside the stadium. Bronze headed England`s second in the 48th minute from a corner and Lauren Hemp somehow failed to make it 3-0 when she fired against the crossbar from substitute Russo`s low cross. Also Read: Record viewing figures for Women’s Euro 2022 tournament, reveals UEFA Russo then produced an outstanding piece of improvisation to take the game away from Sweden, sending a cheeky back heel through the legs of goalkeeper Lindahl. Kirby then put the icing on the cake with a flighted effort that Lindahl could only help into the back of the net. After that it was exhibition stuff for a rampant England side who will now take some stopping in Sunday`s final, especially with Mead in such scintillating form. The Arsenal forward is the leading scorer at the tournament with six goals and two assists in five games so far. "I think at the full time whistle we didn`t really know what to do," Mead said as the adopted British sporting anthem "Sweet Caroline" echoed around the Yorkshire arena. "It was an unbelievable atmosphere and we are excited to be in the final. The goal came at a good time because there was pressure on us and they had a few chances." Also Read: Was Alex Ferguson part of Ronaldo's meeting with Ten Hag over his Man UTD future? Here's the truth It was a chastening evening for Sweden who had looked the more likely side early on. There was less than a minute on the clock when Sofia Jakobsson got in behind England`s defence and forced a fine save from Mary Earps who denied Jakobsson again soon after. Stina Blackstenius also headed against the bar but Sweden`s night was soon to disintegrate as England rode the wave of euphoria that has built throughout the tournament.

Clinical England thrash Sweden 4-0 to reach Women's Euro 2022 final

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