<p>Sports personalities, across the globe, have time and again given their fans plenty to cheer for. Courtesy of their performances in respective sports, every athlete has inspired many and broken several norms. While some achieve staggering success at the beginning of their career, some are late bloomers whereas a lot of them have a topsy-turvy ride, however, their never-say-never attitude spreads like wildfire among followers.</p>

<p>Over the years, sporting stars have continued to give major life lessons and defied all odds. A popular quote 'age is just a number' is often mentioned in the sporting field as many athletes inspire others by shining late in&nbsp;their respective careers. Recently, an unbelievable incident took place which once again justifies that age is really a number and one should not get bogged down by it.&nbsp;</p>

<p><strong>ALSO READ |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/did-sunil-chhetri-led-india-hire-astrologer-for-afc-asian-cup-qualifiers-success-490991">Did Sunil Chhetri-led India hire astrologer for AFC Asian Cup Qualifiers' success?</a></strong></p>

<p>A 105-year-old Rambai created a new record in the 100 metres race by securing gold.&nbsp;45.40 seconds is what it took for the 'young lady'&nbsp;to beat all odds and set a new record in 100m at the inaugural and recently-concluded National Open Masters Athletics Championships,&nbsp;conducted by the Athletics Federation of India, in Vadodara.</p>

<p>The inspirational Rambai had taken part&nbsp;in the above-100 category, however, she ended up&nbsp;running the race alone, due to a lack of candidates in the said category. Despite no competition, she still managed to beat the record of the&nbsp;101-year-old Maan Kaur who attained fame after securing the gold medal&nbsp;in 100m in 74 seconds at the World Masters meet. Thus, a new record has been set by Rambai following the recent one-woman race.</p>

<p><strong>ALSO READ |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/tainted-umpire-asad-rauf-who-now-owns-two-shops-in-lahore-claims-of-not-following-cricket-since-2013-491262">Tainted umpire Asad Rauf, who now owns two shops in Lahore, claims of not following cricket since 2013</a></strong></p>

<p>"Before this race, my grandmother has won 4 gold medals in a competition. After that, she participated in a competition in Maharashtra in which she won 5 gold medals. She was honoured with two trophies in Badlapur, Maharashtra," Rambai`s granddaughter told ANI. Her granddaughter Sharmila revealed the elderly racer's diet plans and said, "She also drinks pure milk twice a day and consumes a lot of ghee. She doesn`t eat much rice. She started his athletic career in 2021. Before that we did not even know that there is a senior citizens race category." A jubilant Rambai stated,&nbsp;"It`s a great feeling and I want to race again."</p>

<p>For the unversed, Rambai is from a family where several members have bagged medals in different sports.&nbsp;Her 62-year-old daughter Santra Devi had clinched&nbsp;gold in the relay race whereas&nbsp;her sons Mukhtar Singh and&nbsp;Vadhu Bhateri settled for&nbsp;bronze medals in the 200 meters race.</p>

<p>Rambai's achievements once again remind one and all that&nbsp;age has no limitations and the only limitations are the ones that individual sets for himself, or herself.</p>


Sports personalities, across the globe, have time and again given their fans plenty to cheer for. Courtesy of their performances in respective sports, every athlete has inspired many and broken several norms.

Sports personalities, across the globe, have time and again given their fans plenty to cheer for. Courtesy of their performances in respective sports, every athlete has inspired many and broken several norms. While some achieve staggering success at the beginning of their career, some are late bloomers whereas a lot of them have a topsy-turvy ride, however, their never-say-never attitude spreads like wildfire among followers. Over the years, sporting stars have continued to give major life lessons and defied all odds. A popular quote 'age is just a number' is often mentioned in the sporting field as many athletes inspire others by shining late in their respective careers. Recently, an unbelievable incident took place which once again justifies that age is really a number and one should not get bogged down by it. ALSO READ | Did Sunil Chhetri-led India hire astrologer for AFC Asian Cup Qualifiers' success? A 105-year-old Rambai created a new record in the 100 metres race by securing gold. 45.40 seconds is what it took for the 'young lady' to beat all odds and set a new record in 100m at the inaugural and recently-concluded National Open Masters Athletics Championships, conducted by the Athletics Federation of India, in Vadodara. The inspirational Rambai had taken part in the above-100 category, however, she ended up running the race alone, due to a lack of candidates in the said category. Despite no competition, she still managed to beat the record of the 101-year-old Maan Kaur who attained fame after securing the gold medal in 100m in 74 seconds at the World Masters meet. Thus, a new record has been set by Rambai following the recent one-woman race. ALSO READ | Tainted umpire Asad Rauf, who now owns two shops in Lahore, claims of not following cricket since 2013 "Before this race, my grandmother has won 4 gold medals in a competition. After that, she participated in a competition in Maharashtra in which she won 5 gold medals. She was honoured with two trophies in Badlapur, Maharashtra," Rambai`s granddaughter told ANI. Her granddaughter Sharmila revealed the elderly racer's diet plans and said, "She also drinks pure milk twice a day and consumes a lot of ghee. She doesn`t eat much rice. She started his athletic career in 2021. Before that we did not even know that there is a senior citizens race category." A jubilant Rambai stated, "It`s a great feeling and I want to race again." For the unversed, Rambai is from a family where several members have bagged medals in different sports. Her 62-year-old daughter Santra Devi had clinched gold in the relay race whereas her sons Mukhtar Singh and Vadhu Bhateri settled for bronze medals in the 200 meters race. Rambai's achievements once again remind one and all that age has no limitations and the only limitations are the ones that individual sets for himself, or herself.

Age is just a number! 105-year-old Rambai creates new record in 100-meter women's race, secures gold

<p>The Indian men's senior national football team reaped rewards after their stellar Asian Cup qualification as they advanced two places up from 106th to 104th in the latest FIFA world rankings released on Thursday. The Indian women`s senior national football team too earned fruition as they advanced three places up from 59th to 56th.</p>

<p>The Blue Tigers highlighted an excellent performance in the AFC Asian Cup qualifiers campaign, where they topped Group D in style by securing three out of three wins against Afghanistan, Cambodia, and Hong Kong. Chhetri and co. created history, as it was India`s first-ever back-to-back qualification in the AFC Asian Cup, scheduled to be held in 2023. They are now placed just below New Zealand (103rd), who recently lost their World Cup qualification spot to Costa Rica.</p>

<p><strong>ALSO READ |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/fifa-increases-squads-to-26-players-for-2022-world-cup-491127">FIFA increases squads to 26 players for 2022 World Cup</a></strong></p>

<p>However, India`s AFC ranking remains unchanged as they stand 19th, with Iran leading the rankings in the first place. The Blue Tigresses, on the other hand, beat Egypt and Jordan 1-0 each earlier this year in international friendlies.&nbsp;</p>


The Indian men's senior national football team reaped rewards after their stellar Asian Cup qualification as they advanced two places up from 106th to 104th in the latest FIFA world rankings released on Thursday.

The Indian men's senior national football team reaped rewards after their stellar Asian Cup qualification as they advanced two places up from 106th to 104th in the latest FIFA world rankings released on Thursday. The Indian women`s senior national football team too earned fruition as they advanced three places up from 59th to 56th. The Blue Tigers highlighted an excellent performance in the AFC Asian Cup qualifiers campaign, where they topped Group D in style by securing three out of three wins against Afghanistan, Cambodia, and Hong Kong. Chhetri and co. created history, as it was India`s first-ever back-to-back qualification in the AFC Asian Cup, scheduled to be held in 2023. They are now placed just below New Zealand (103rd), who recently lost their World Cup qualification spot to Costa Rica. ALSO READ | FIFA increases squads to 26 players for 2022 World Cup However, India`s AFC ranking remains unchanged as they stand 19th, with Iran leading the rankings in the first place. The Blue Tigresses, on the other hand, beat Egypt and Jordan 1-0 each earlier this year in international friendlies.

FIFA Rankings: Sunil Chhetri & Co. rises 104th, women's team leaps to 56th

<p>Asad Rauf umpired in as many as 170 international games, comprising&nbsp;49 Tests, 98 ODIs and 23 T20Is. He made a career out of cricket and was part of ICC's elite panel of umpires as well. During his umpiring career, spanning from 2000 to 2013, Rauf dealt with a major blow after allegations of match-fixing were levelled against him during the infamous IPL 2013 edition in India. Back then, the veteran umpire was accused of accepting expensive gifts from bookies as well as&nbsp;placing bets in several games during the&nbsp;sixth edition of the cash-rich league.</p>

<p>In early 2016, the Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI) imposed a five-year ban on Rauf, for corrupt practices and tarnishing the reputation of the game, which essentially ended his umpiring stint once and for all. At present, he runs&nbsp;two shops in Landa Bazar, Lahore (one that deals with selling second-hand apparel and the other&nbsp;of crockeries). Thus, Rauf has moved on from the infamous episode and claimed to have not been following the gentlemen's game since 2013.&nbsp;</p>

<p>During a recent interview with a Pakistani news channel, Paktv.tv, Rauf stated, "No, I’ve umpired in so many games all my life, there’s no one left to see now. I haven’t been in touch with the game since 2013, because once I leave something I leave it completely,” he further responded.</p>

<p>On the match-fixing allegations, Rauf opined, "I have spent my best time in IPL, apart from these issues that came later on,” he said. “I had nothing to do with these issues, the allegations came from the BCCI’s side and they took the decision on me themselves."</p>

<p><strong>ALSO READ |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/pains-me-to-see-such-a-big-player-kapil-dev-opines-on-superstar-virat-kohlis-century-drought-491013">'Pains me to see such a big player.....': Kapil Dev opines on superstar Virat Kohli's century drought</a></strong></p>

<p>In 2012, there was a serious allegation against Rauf when a Mumbai model had levelled charges of sexual exploitation. She had&nbsp;further mentioned that the two had an affair and it was prolonged due to Rauf's promise of marrying her. However, she claimed that he had&nbsp;later backed out.&nbsp;</p>

<p>To this, Rauf said, "<em>Ladki waala maamla jab aaya tha, toh mai to uske agle saal bhi IPL krwane gaya tha</em>&nbsp;(Even after the allegations from the girl, I had umpired in the IPL next season)."</p>

<p>He concluded by saying, "<em>Meri aadat hai, jis kaam ko shuru karta hu uski peak pe jaata hu. Maine landai ka kaam shuru kiya hai, iski bhi peak pe mai gaya hu. Maine cricket kheli hai toh iski bhi peak pe mai gaya hu. Aur phir maine umpiring shuru ki, toh maine socha ki iski bhi peak pe hi jaana chahiye</em>&nbsp;(It is my habit to reach the peak of whatever work I do. I started work as a shopkeeper, I have reached its peak. I played cricket, I reached the peak. And then when I started out as an umpire, I said to myself that I need to reach the peak here as well)."</p>


Asad Rauf umpired in as many as 170 international games, comprising 49 Tests, 98 ODIs and 23 T20Is. He made a career out of cricket and was part of ICC's elite panel of umpires as well.

Asad Rauf umpired in as many as 170 international games, comprising 49 Tests, 98 ODIs and 23 T20Is. He made a career out of cricket and was part of ICC's elite panel of umpires as well. During his umpiring career, spanning from 2000 to 2013, Rauf dealt with a major blow after allegations of match-fixing were levelled against him during the infamous IPL 2013 edition in India. Back then, the veteran umpire was accused of accepting expensive gifts from bookies as well as placing bets in several games during the sixth edition of the cash-rich league. In early 2016, the Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI) imposed a five-year ban on Rauf, for corrupt practices and tarnishing the reputation of the game, which essentially ended his umpiring stint once and for all. At present, he runs two shops in Landa Bazar, Lahore (one that deals with selling second-hand apparel and the other of crockeries). Thus, Rauf has moved on from the infamous episode and claimed to have not been following the gentlemen's game since 2013. During a recent interview with a Pakistani news channel, Paktv.tv, Rauf stated, "No, I’ve umpired in so many games all my life, there’s no one left to see now. I haven’t been in touch with the game since 2013, because once I leave something I leave it completely,” he further responded. On the match-fixing allegations, Rauf opined, "I have spent my best time in IPL, apart from these issues that came later on,” he said. “I had nothing to do with these issues, the allegations came from the BCCI’s side and they took the decision on me themselves." ALSO READ | 'Pains me to see such a big player.....': Kapil Dev opines on superstar Virat Kohli's century drought In 2012, there was a serious allegation against Rauf when a Mumbai model had levelled charges of sexual exploitation. She had further mentioned that the two had an affair and it was prolonged due to Rauf's promise of marrying her. However, she claimed that he had later backed out. To this, Rauf said, "Ladki waala maamla jab aaya tha, toh mai to uske agle saal bhi IPL krwane gaya tha (Even after the allegations from the girl, I had umpired in the IPL next season)." He concluded by saying, "Meri aadat hai, jis kaam ko shuru karta hu uski peak pe jaata hu. Maine landai ka kaam shuru kiya hai, iski bhi peak pe mai gaya hu. Maine cricket kheli hai toh iski bhi peak pe mai gaya hu. Aur phir maine umpiring shuru ki, toh maine socha ki iski bhi peak pe hi jaana chahiye (It is my habit to reach the peak of whatever work I do. I started work as a shopkeeper, I have reached its peak. I played cricket, I reached the peak. And then when I started out as an umpire, I said to myself that I need to reach the peak here as well)."

Tainted umpire Asad Rauf, who now owns two shops in Lahore, claims of not following cricket since 2013

<p>Australia`s Mollie O`Callaghan stormed to victory to take the women`s 100 metres freestyle gold while Americans Lilly King and Ryan Murphy took gold in the women`s 200m breaststroke and the men`s 200m backstroke at the swimming world championships on Thursday.</p>

<p>Zac Stubblety-Cook of Australia followed up his Olympic gold in 200m breastroke with a repeat at the Duna Arena while the United States men won the 4x200m relay. O`Callaghan was third in the final 50 but raced into the lead in the last few metres to beat favourite and world record holder Sarah Sjoestroem of Sweden, who took the silver, while American Torri Huske was third.</p>

<p>The Australian clocked 52.67 seconds to take gold, 0.13 seconds ahead of Sjoestroem while Huske was just a quarter of a second behind. "I`m so excited, I really don`t know what to say. I wasn`t expecting that at all. I`m racing some amazing girls here," O`Callaghan said after winning her first individual gold at the world championships.</p>

<p>O`Callaghan had set the fastest time in the semi-finals to earn a spot in lane four and she was unfazed in the final stretch with Sjoestroem and Huske, the 100m butterfly champion, on either side. The field was blown wide open with defending champion and twice-Olympic gold medallist Simone Manuel not competing while O`Callaghan`s compatriot Shayna Jack withdrew from the championships after breaking her hand during a training session.</p>

<p><strong>ALSO READ |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/finas-open-category-proposal-under-scanner-faces-questions-over-fairness-and-viability-491034">FINA's 'Open category' proposal under scanner, faces questions over fairness and viability</a></strong></p>

<p>After missing the podium in the 100m breaststroke, King claimed her first world title in the 200m breaststroke with a time of 2:22.41. King led at the 50m mark yet fell back to fifth by the final turn but had saved enough for a powerful final length.</p>

<p>Australia`s Jenna Strauch took silver and American Kate Douglass won bronze. The absence of Olympic champion Evgeny Rylov of Russia left the field open for the men`s 200m backstroke and Tokyo Olympics silver medallist Murphy took full advantage.</p>

<p>Murphy had never won an individual gold at a world championships but had won in both 100m and 200m backstroke at the Rio Olympics in 2016. Stubblety-Cook was the clear favourite in the 200m breast, especially with his rival Arno Kamminga of the Netherlands pulling out in the semis.</p>

<p>But the 23-year-old was in the seventh spot at the 100 mark but it was soon clear that was part of his gameplan and he powered through the second half of the race to victory. The Queenslander finished in a time of 2:07.07, well short of his world record time but 1.31 ahead of Japan`s Yu Hanaguruma with Sweden`s Erik Persson taking bronze.</p>

<p>The American won the 4x200m freestyle relay with ease, finishing 3.26 ahead of Australia with Britain`s Tom Dean producing an impressive final leg to earn bronze.</p>


Australia`s Mollie O`Callaghan stormed to victory to take the women`s 100 metres freestyle gold while Americans Lilly King and Ryan Murphy took gold in the women`s 200m breaststroke and the men`s 200m backstroke at the swimming world championships on Thursday.

Australia`s Mollie O`Callaghan stormed to victory to take the women`s 100 metres freestyle gold while Americans Lilly King and Ryan Murphy took gold in the women`s 200m breaststroke and the men`s 200m backstroke at the swimming world championships on Thursday. Zac Stubblety-Cook of Australia followed up his Olympic gold in 200m breastroke with a repeat at the Duna Arena while the United States men won the 4x200m relay. O`Callaghan was third in the final 50 but raced into the lead in the last few metres to beat favourite and world record holder Sarah Sjoestroem of Sweden, who took the silver, while American Torri Huske was third. The Australian clocked 52.67 seconds to take gold, 0.13 seconds ahead of Sjoestroem while Huske was just a quarter of a second behind. "I`m so excited, I really don`t know what to say. I wasn`t expecting that at all. I`m racing some amazing girls here," O`Callaghan said after winning her first individual gold at the world championships. O`Callaghan had set the fastest time in the semi-finals to earn a spot in lane four and she was unfazed in the final stretch with Sjoestroem and Huske, the 100m butterfly champion, on either side. The field was blown wide open with defending champion and twice-Olympic gold medallist Simone Manuel not competing while O`Callaghan`s compatriot Shayna Jack withdrew from the championships after breaking her hand during a training session. ALSO READ | FINA's 'Open category' proposal under scanner, faces questions over fairness and viability After missing the podium in the 100m breaststroke, King claimed her first world title in the 200m breaststroke with a time of 2:22.41. King led at the 50m mark yet fell back to fifth by the final turn but had saved enough for a powerful final length. Australia`s Jenna Strauch took silver and American Kate Douglass won bronze. The absence of Olympic champion Evgeny Rylov of Russia left the field open for the men`s 200m backstroke and Tokyo Olympics silver medallist Murphy took full advantage. Murphy had never won an individual gold at a world championships but had won in both 100m and 200m backstroke at the Rio Olympics in 2016. Stubblety-Cook was the clear favourite in the 200m breast, especially with his rival Arno Kamminga of the Netherlands pulling out in the semis. But the 23-year-old was in the seventh spot at the 100 mark but it was soon clear that was part of his gameplan and he powered through the second half of the race to victory. The Queenslander finished in a time of 2:07.07, well short of his world record time but 1.31 ahead of Japan`s Yu Hanaguruma with Sweden`s Erik Persson taking bronze. The American won the 4x200m freestyle relay with ease, finishing 3.26 ahead of Australia with Britain`s Tom Dean producing an impressive final leg to earn bronze.

Australia's Mollie O''Callaghan secures 100m freestyle gold, Ryan Murphy clinches gold in 200m backstroke

<p>Following the end of the IPL media rights auction, BCCI Secretary Jay Shah had made a big revelation that the board plans to extend the window for the cash-rich league from the next season, in order to have more international players available throughout an edition. Following this, reports were flowing in that the Pakistan Cricket Board (PCB) is unhappy with this development and is set to discuss the matter at ICC's board meeting, to be held later this year in Birmingham.</p>

<p>"From the next FTP cycle, IPL will have an official two-and-a-half-month window so that all the top international cricketers can participate. We have had discussions with various boards as well as the ICC," Shah had told PTI.</p>

<p><strong>ALSO READ |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/india-is-a-good-team-but-rashid-latif-makes-big-statement-on-men-in-blues-rivalry-with-pakistan-491292">'India is a good team, but....' - Rashid Latif makes big statement on Men in Blue's rivalry with Pakistan</a></strong></p>

<p>Thus, Pakistan Cricket Board's (PCB) chairman Ramiz Raja has now reacted to the proposed plan of extending the IPL window from next year. In this regard, the former Pakistan captain said during a media interaction on Friday (June 24), "There has been no announcement or decision as yet on the IPL window being increased. I will give my views on this issue at the ICC conference."</p>

<p>Ramiz has also opined on his plans of seeing India-Pakistan lock horns on the 22-yard cricket strip outside ICC tournaments. In this context, he&nbsp;had suggested for a multi-team tournament several times in the recent past. He revealed, "I have spoken to Sourav on the sidelines on this, and I told him that presently there are three former cricketers heading their cricket boards and if they can't make a difference, who will? Twice Ganguly has invited me to attend the IPL finals last year and this year, and cricketing-wise, it made sense to go, but then, because of the situation, we had to look at the fallout of accepting the invitations," he further added.</p>


Following the end of the IPL media rights auction, BCCI Secretary Jay Shah had made a big revelation that the board plans to extend the window for the cash-rich league from the next season, in order to have more international players available throughout an edition.

Following the end of the IPL media rights auction, BCCI Secretary Jay Shah had made a big revelation that the board plans to extend the window for the cash-rich league from the next season, in order to have more international players available throughout an edition. Following this, reports were flowing in that the Pakistan Cricket Board (PCB) is unhappy with this development and is set to discuss the matter at ICC's board meeting, to be held later this year in Birmingham. "From the next FTP cycle, IPL will have an official two-and-a-half-month window so that all the top international cricketers can participate. We have had discussions with various boards as well as the ICC," Shah had told PTI. ALSO READ | 'India is a good team, but....' - Rashid Latif makes big statement on Men in Blue's rivalry with Pakistan Thus, Pakistan Cricket Board's (PCB) chairman Ramiz Raja has now reacted to the proposed plan of extending the IPL window from next year. In this regard, the former Pakistan captain said during a media interaction on Friday (June 24), "There has been no announcement or decision as yet on the IPL window being increased. I will give my views on this issue at the ICC conference." Ramiz has also opined on his plans of seeing India-Pakistan lock horns on the 22-yard cricket strip outside ICC tournaments. In this context, he had suggested for a multi-team tournament several times in the recent past. He revealed, "I have spoken to Sourav on the sidelines on this, and I told him that presently there are three former cricketers heading their cricket boards and if they can't make a difference, who will? Twice Ganguly has invited me to attend the IPL finals last year and this year, and cricketing-wise, it made sense to go, but then, because of the situation, we had to look at the fallout of accepting the invitations," he further added.

'Will challenge it....' - PCB chairman Ramiz Raja breaks silence on IPL's two-and-a-half month window

<p>Hosts India have been clubbed alongside football powerhouse Brazil, Morocco and the USA in a tough Group A for the upcoming U-17 FIFA Women's World Cup, the draw for which took place on Friday. The country is slated to host the tournament from October 11 to 30 across three venues.</p>

<p>A total of 16 teams across four groups will be participating in the tournament. Matches of the quadrennial event will take place in Bhubaneshwar, Goa and Navi Mumbai. India will begin their campaign against the USA on October 11 (Tuesday) at the Kalinga Stadium in Bhubaneswar. Their second match will be against Morocco on October 14 (Friday) at the same venue. The home team's last group stage match against Brazil will be on October 17 (Monday).</p>

<p><strong>ALSO READ |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/age-is-just-a-number-105-year-old-rambai-creates-new-record-in-100-meter-womens-race-secures-gold-491388">Age is just a number! 105-year-old Rambai creates new record in 100-meter women's race, secures gold</a></strong></p>

<p>India were scheduled to host the 2020 edition of the World Cup but the tournament was cancelled due to the COVID-19 pandemic. Defending champions Spain, who beat Mexico in the final of the 2018 edition, are placed in Group C along with Colombia, China, and Mexico. North Korea are the most successful team in the history of the tournament, having won the trophy in 2008 and 2016, while Japan, South Korea, and France have each won the title once.</p>

<p>Host Mollie Kmita presented the official draw and was joined by former US women's national team player and FIFA women's World Cup winner, Heather O'Reilly, former coach of the New Zealand national team, Ricki Herbert, as well as Jaime Yarza, FIFA's director of tournaments, and Sarai Bareman, FIFA chief women's football officer.</p>


Hosts India have been clubbed alongside football powerhouse Brazil, Morocco and the USA in a tough Group A for the upcoming U-17 FIFA Women's World Cup, the draw for which took place on Friday.

Hosts India have been clubbed alongside football powerhouse Brazil, Morocco and the USA in a tough Group A for the upcoming U-17 FIFA Women's World Cup, the draw for which took place on Friday. The country is slated to host the tournament from October 11 to 30 across three venues. A total of 16 teams across four groups will be participating in the tournament. Matches of the quadrennial event will take place in Bhubaneshwar, Goa and Navi Mumbai. India will begin their campaign against the USA on October 11 (Tuesday) at the Kalinga Stadium in Bhubaneswar. Their second match will be against Morocco on October 14 (Friday) at the same venue. The home team's last group stage match against Brazil will be on October 17 (Monday). ALSO READ | Age is just a number! 105-year-old Rambai creates new record in 100-meter women's race, secures gold India were scheduled to host the 2020 edition of the World Cup but the tournament was cancelled due to the COVID-19 pandemic. Defending champions Spain, who beat Mexico in the final of the 2018 edition, are placed in Group C along with Colombia, China, and Mexico. North Korea are the most successful team in the history of the tournament, having won the trophy in 2008 and 2016, while Japan, South Korea, and France have each won the title once. Host Mollie Kmita presented the official draw and was joined by former US women's national team player and FIFA women's World Cup winner, Heather O'Reilly, former coach of the New Zealand national team, Ricki Herbert, as well as Jaime Yarza, FIFA's director of tournaments, and Sarai Bareman, FIFA chief women's football officer.

Women's U-17 World Cup: Hosts India to lock horns with Brazil, Morocco, USA in a tough Group A

<p>US artistic swimmer Anita Alvarez, who was dramatically rescued from the bottom of the pool after fainting in her solo routine, was omitted from a revised startlist just before the team competition began on Friday. Alvarez, who fainted at the end of her routine at the World Championships on Wednesday, had been on all previous versions of the startlist for the US eight-woman team but was replaced by Yujin Chang just before the 1600 local time (1400 GMT) start.</p>

<p>A FINA official said the swimming organisation had asked Alvarez to undergo a full medical examination Friday morning but said he did not know the result.&nbsp; Alvarez fainted and dropped to the bottom at the end of her individual routine and was saved by her quick-thinking coach, Andrea Fuentes. When Fuentes saw Alvarez, who was unconscious throughout, sinking and lifeguards standing watching, she had no hesitation in diving to the bottom of the pool and dragging the swimmer to the surface.</p>

<p><strong>ALSO READ |&nbsp;</strong><a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/in-pics-nick-of-time-coach-saves-us-swimmer-anita-alvarez-who-fainted-fell-to-bottom-of-pool-490863"><strong>In Pics | Nick of time: Coach saves US swimmer Anita Alvarez who fainted, fell to bottom of pool</strong></a></p>

<p>AFP's underwater robot camera captured astonishing images as the drama unfolded."I think she was at least two minutes without breathing because her lungs were full of water," said Fuentes, a four-time Olympic artistic swimming medallist, adding that the swimmer's heart was beating.</p>

<p>The USA artistic team released a statement from Fuentes on Thursday saying Alvarez had fainted due to the effort expended during the routine.&nbsp; "This happened to her once last year at the Olympic Qualification Tournament when competing her duet," an US spokeswoman added.</p>


US artistic swimmer Anita Alvarez, who was dramatically rescued from the bottom of the pool after fainting in her solo routine, was omitted from a revised startlist just before the team competition began on Friday.

US artistic swimmer Anita Alvarez, who was dramatically rescued from the bottom of the pool after fainting in her solo routine, was omitted from a revised startlist just before the team competition began on Friday. Alvarez, who fainted at the end of her routine at the World Championships on Wednesday, had been on all previous versions of the startlist for the US eight-woman team but was replaced by Yujin Chang just before the 1600 local time (1400 GMT) start. A FINA official said the swimming organisation had asked Alvarez to undergo a full medical examination Friday morning but said he did not know the result. Alvarez fainted and dropped to the bottom at the end of her individual routine and was saved by her quick-thinking coach, Andrea Fuentes. When Fuentes saw Alvarez, who was unconscious throughout, sinking and lifeguards standing watching, she had no hesitation in diving to the bottom of the pool and dragging the swimmer to the surface. ALSO READ | In Pics | Nick of time: Coach saves US swimmer Anita Alvarez who fainted, fell to bottom of pool AFP's underwater robot camera captured astonishing images as the drama unfolded."I think she was at least two minutes without breathing because her lungs were full of water," said Fuentes, a four-time Olympic artistic swimming medallist, adding that the swimmer's heart was beating. The USA artistic team released a statement from Fuentes on Thursday saying Alvarez had fainted due to the effort expended during the routine. "This happened to her once last year at the Olympic Qualification Tournament when competing her duet," an US spokeswoman added.

Young American swimmer Anita Alvarez, who fainted in solo event, not on team event startlist

<p>New Zealand had their chances but failed to capitalise in the opening two Tests, of the three-match series, versus hosts England. In the third and inconsequential tie, being held at&nbsp;Headingley, Leeds, Daryl Mitchell -- who was been in red-hot form for the visitors -- continued his merry run to slam his third consecutive ton in the series.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Mitchell had slammed a ton in the second innings of the opening Test, at Lord's, and scored a century in the first innings of the second Test before repeating his heroics in NZ's first essay in the final Test. after Kane Williamson &amp; Co. opted to bat first. With Kiwis reeling at 123-5, the onus once again fell on Mitchell-Tom Blundell as the duo stitched yet another century-stand -- third on the trot -- to bail NZ out of a crisis. While keeper-batter Blundell fell for a well-made 55, Mitchell registered his fourth ton overall, the third of the series.</p>

<p><strong>ALSO READ |&nbsp;</strong><a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/watch-mohammed-shami-hugs-cheteshwar-pujara-after-dismissing-him-for-a-duck-in-practice-game-491396"><strong>WATCH: Mohammed Shami hugs Cheteshwar Pujara after dismissing him for a duck in practice game</strong></a></p>

<p>By virtue of another triple-figure knock, the 31-year-old Mitchell joined an elite list of cricketers. The right-hander is now&nbsp;only the fourth player in the 21st century to score three back-to-back Test centuries as an overseas player on a tour of England. In this way, the star NZ player has joined Rahul Dravid (2002, 2011), Mohammad Yusuf (2006) and Steve Smith (2019) in an elite list of batters to have achieved this rare feat.</p>

<p>In addition, Mitchell&nbsp;became the first Kiwi player in 73 years to score in excess of 400 runs in a Test series against England. Courtesy of his impressive 109, NZ were all-out for 329 and have now dismissed half of the English side for 55&nbsp;as&nbsp;hosts are in a spot of bother.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Will Williamson &amp; Co. salvage some pride and win the final Test? Only time will tell...</p>


New Zealand had their chances but failed to capitalise in the opening two Tests, of the three-match series, versus hosts England. In the third and inconsequential tie, being held at Headingley, Leeds, Daryl Mitchell -- who was been in red-hot form for the visitors -- continued his merry run to slam his third consecutive ton in the series.

New Zealand had their chances but failed to capitalise in the opening two Tests, of the three-match series, versus hosts England. In the third and inconsequential tie, being held at Headingley, Leeds, Daryl Mitchell -- who was been in red-hot form for the visitors -- continued his merry run to slam his third consecutive ton in the series. Mitchell had slammed a ton in the second innings of the opening Test, at Lord's, and scored a century in the first innings of the second Test before repeating his heroics in NZ's first essay in the final Test. after Kane Williamson & Co. opted to bat first. With Kiwis reeling at 123-5, the onus once again fell on Mitchell-Tom Blundell as the duo stitched yet another century-stand -- third on the trot -- to bail NZ out of a crisis. While keeper-batter Blundell fell for a well-made 55, Mitchell registered his fourth ton overall, the third of the series. ALSO READ | WATCH: Mohammed Shami hugs Cheteshwar Pujara after dismissing him for a duck in practice game By virtue of another triple-figure knock, the 31-year-old Mitchell joined an elite list of cricketers. The right-hander is now only the fourth player in the 21st century to score three back-to-back Test centuries as an overseas player on a tour of England. In this way, the star NZ player has joined Rahul Dravid (2002, 2011), Mohammad Yusuf (2006) and Steve Smith (2019) in an elite list of batters to have achieved this rare feat. In addition, Mitchell became the first Kiwi player in 73 years to score in excess of 400 runs in a Test series against England. Courtesy of his impressive 109, NZ were all-out for 329 and have now dismissed half of the English side for 55 as hosts are in a spot of bother. Will Williamson & Co. salvage some pride and win the final Test? Only time will tell...

NZ batter Daryl Mitchell's dream run continues vs ENG, slams 3rd ton on trot to join Dravid-led elite list

<p>Ahead of their one-off Test versus Ben Stokes-led England, the Rohit Sharma-led Team India players are currently involved in a four-day practice game versus Leicestershire at the&nbsp;Grace Road, Leicester. After India resumed the second day's play and declared their first innings at 246-8, thanks to wicketkeeper KS Bharat's unbeaten 70, Mohammed Shami has done wonders for India with the ball in hand.</p>

<p>Shami has been in top form and removed Leicestershire skipper&nbsp;Samuel Evans for 1 before he got rid of India's Test specialist Cheteshwar Pujara for a 6-ball duck. The right-hander, who was recalled into India's Test squad following a memorable run for Sussex in the County Championship, chopped the ball onto the stumps as Shami celebrated in style. Dismissing his Test teammate, Shami ran towards Pujara and&nbsp;gave him a warm embrace. <strong>Here's the video of the dismissal and Shami jumping on Pujara from behind:</strong></p>

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<p dir="ltr" lang="en">☝️ | 𝐏𝐮𝐣𝐚𝐫𝐚 𝐛 𝐒𝐡𝐚𝐦𝐢.<br />
<br />
A second wicket for Shami. He dismisses his <a href="https://twitter.com/BCCI?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@BCCI</a> teammate, as Pujara drags on.<br />
<br />
Evison joins Kimber (28*).<br />
<br />
🦊 LEI 34/2<br />
<br />
𝐋𝐈𝐕𝐄 𝐒𝐓𝐑𝐄𝐀𝐌: <a href="https://t.co/APL4n65NFa">https://t.co/APL4n65NFa</a> 👈<br />
<br />
🦊 <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/IndiaTourMatch?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#IndiaTourMatch</a> | <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/LEIvIND?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#LEIvIND</a> | <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/TeamIndia?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#TeamIndia</a> <a href="https://t.co/ANf2NfhUAy">pic.twitter.com/ANf2NfhUAy</a></p>
— Leicestershire Foxes 🏏 (@leicsccc) <a href="https://twitter.com/leicsccc/status/1540278964459028482?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">June 24, 2022</a></blockquote>
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<p><strong>ALSO READ |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/india-vs-leicestershire-rohit-sharma-cops-a-nasty-blow-on-the-box-off-jasprit-bumrah-watch-491025">India vs Leicestershire: Rohit Sharma cops a nasty blow on the box off Jasprit Bumrah - WATCH</a></strong></p>

<p>For the unversed, the Rahul Dravid-coached Indian team allowed four of their players, such as Pujara, Jasprit Bumrah, Rishabh Pant and Prasidh Krishna, to play for Leicestershire as per the pre-game agreement. The opening day saw Indian batters struggle in the conditions as the likes of Rohit and Virat Kohli got starts but perished soon before Bharat's 70 not out took them to a respectable total.&nbsp;&nbsp;</p>

<p>Following the practice game, India will face England in the rescheduled fifth and final Test in Edgbaston, Birmingham on July 01. It is part of the incomplete 2021 five-match series between both sides. The series came to a sudden halt last year due to Covid crisis in the then Kohli-led Indian camp. At that time, visitors had already taken an unassailable 2-1 lead. Thus, India have a chance to win their first-ever Test series on English soil since 2007.</p>


Ahead of their one-off Test versus Ben Stokes-led England, the Rohit Sharma-led Team India players are currently involved in a four-day practice game versus Leicestershire at the Grace Road, Leicester.

Ahead of their one-off Test versus Ben Stokes-led England, the Rohit Sharma-led Team India players are currently involved in a four-day practice game versus Leicestershire at the Grace Road, Leicester. After India resumed the second day's play and declared their first innings at 246-8, thanks to wicketkeeper KS Bharat's unbeaten 70, Mohammed Shami has done wonders for India with the ball in hand. Shami has been in top form and removed Leicestershire skipper Samuel Evans for 1 before he got rid of India's Test specialist Cheteshwar Pujara for a 6-ball duck. The right-hander, who was recalled into India's Test squad following a memorable run for Sussex in the County Championship, chopped the ball onto the stumps as Shami celebrated in style. Dismissing his Test teammate, Shami ran towards Pujara and gave him a warm embrace. Here's the video of the dismissal and Shami jumping on Pujara from behind: ☝️ | 𝐏𝐮𝐣𝐚𝐫𝐚 𝐛 𝐒𝐡𝐚𝐦𝐢. A second wicket for Shami. He dismisses his @BCCI teammate, as Pujara drags on. Evison joins Kimber (28*). 🦊 LEI 34/2 𝐋𝐈𝐕𝐄 𝐒𝐓𝐑𝐄𝐀𝐌: https://t.co/APL4n65NFa 👈 🦊 #IndiaTourMatch | #LEIvIND | #TeamIndia pic.twitter.com/ANf2NfhUAy — Leicestershire Foxes 🏏 (@leicsccc) June 24, 2022 × ALSO READ | India vs Leicestershire: Rohit Sharma cops a nasty blow on the box off Jasprit Bumrah - WATCH For the unversed, the Rahul Dravid-coached Indian team allowed four of their players, such as Pujara, Jasprit Bumrah, Rishabh Pant and Prasidh Krishna, to play for Leicestershire as per the pre-game agreement. The opening day saw Indian batters struggle in the conditions as the likes of Rohit and Virat Kohli got starts but perished soon before Bharat's 70 not out took them to a respectable total. Following the practice game, India will face England in the rescheduled fifth and final Test in Edgbaston, Birmingham on July 01. It is part of the incomplete 2021 five-match series between both sides. The series came to a sudden halt last year due to Covid crisis in the then Kohli-led Indian camp. At that time, visitors had already taken an unassailable 2-1 lead. Thus, India have a chance to win their first-ever Test series on English soil since 2007.

WATCH: Mohammed Shami hugs Cheteshwar Pujara after dismissing him for a duck in practice game

<p>There will be no ranking points on offer, but Wimbledon will dish out record prize money of 40.3 million pounds ($50.5 million) and host capacity crowds for the first time in three years at this year`s tennis championships.<br />
The grasscourt grand slam event had its ranking points taken away by the men's ATP and women's WTA after it opted to exclude players from Russia and Belarus because of Russia`s invasion of Ukraine, which Moscow calls a `special operation`. Belarus has been a key staging area for the invasion.</p>

<p>The men's and women's singles champions will each receive 2 million pounds, organisers said on Thursday.<br />
"From the first round of the qualifying competition to the champions being crowned, this year`s prize money distribution aims to reflect just how important the players are to The Championships...," said Ian Hewitt, Chairman of the All England Club.</p>

<p><strong>ALSO READ |&nbsp;</strong><a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/young-star-emma-raducanu-expected-to-be-fit-for-wimbledon-2022-486446"><strong>Young star Emma Raducanu expected to be fit for Wimbledon 2022</strong></a></p>

<p>The total prize money last year was a little over 35 million pounds, with Novak Djokovic and Ash Barty pocketing 1.7 million pounds each after being crowned champions. The grasscourt major will be held from June 27 to July 10.</p>


There will be no ranking points on offer, but Wimbledon will dish out record prize money of 40.3 million pounds ($50.5 million) and host capacity crowds for the first time in three years at this year`s tennis championships.

There will be no ranking points on offer, but Wimbledon will dish out record prize money of 40.3 million pounds ($50.5 million) and host capacity crowds for the first time in three years at this year`s tennis championships. The grasscourt grand slam event had its ranking points taken away by the men's ATP and women's WTA after it opted to exclude players from Russia and Belarus because of Russia`s invasion of Ukraine, which Moscow calls a `special operation`. Belarus has been a key staging area for the invasion. The men's and women's singles champions will each receive 2 million pounds, organisers said on Thursday. "From the first round of the qualifying competition to the champions being crowned, this year`s prize money distribution aims to reflect just how important the players are to The Championships...," said Ian Hewitt, Chairman of the All England Club. ALSO READ | Young star Emma Raducanu expected to be fit for Wimbledon 2022 The total prize money last year was a little over 35 million pounds, with Novak Djokovic and Ash Barty pocketing 1.7 million pounds each after being crowned champions. The grasscourt major will be held from June 27 to July 10.

Wimbledon to dish out record prize money of 40.3 million pounds

<p>Russian players will not be allowed to compete at Wimbledon this year due to Moscow`s invasion of Ukraine, according to a report in sports industry news site Sportico on Tuesday. Earlier this month, the All England Lawn Tennis Club (AELTC), which organises the grasscourt Grand Slam, said it was in talks with the British government on the participation of players from Russia and Belarus.</p>

<p>The organisers said it planned to announce a decision in mid-May ahead of the entry deadline for the June 27-July 10 tournament. The AELTC did not immediately respond to request for comment on the report.<br />
A ban on Russian players would prevent world number two Daniil Medvedev and Andrey Rublev, ranked eighth, from competing in the men`s draw. Anastasia Pavlyuchenkova is 15th in the women`s rankings.<br />
The report said it was unclear whether players from Belarus would also be banned. Belarus is a key staging area for the invasion, which Russia calls a "special operation".</p>

<p><strong>ALSO READ |&nbsp;</strong><a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/dominic-thiem-loses-against-john-millman-on-return-from-injury-at-serbia-open-472254"><strong>Dominic Thiem loses against John&nbsp;Millman on return from injury at Serbia Open</strong></a></p>

<p>Tennis governing bodies banned Russia and Belarus from international team competitions following the invasion. Individual players are allowed to compete on tours but not under the name or flag of their countries. British Sports Minister Nigel Huddleston said last month that he would not be comfortable with a "Russian athlete flying the Russian flag" and winning Wimbledon in London.</p>


Russian players will not be allowed to compete at Wimbledon this year due to Moscow`s invasion of Ukraine, according to a report in sports industry news site Sportico on Tuesday.

Russian players will not be allowed to compete at Wimbledon this year due to Moscow`s invasion of Ukraine, according to a report in sports industry news site Sportico on Tuesday. Earlier this month, the All England Lawn Tennis Club (AELTC), which organises the grasscourt Grand Slam, said it was in talks with the British government on the participation of players from Russia and Belarus. The organisers said it planned to announce a decision in mid-May ahead of the entry deadline for the June 27-July 10 tournament. The AELTC did not immediately respond to request for comment on the report. A ban on Russian players would prevent world number two Daniil Medvedev and Andrey Rublev, ranked eighth, from competing in the men`s draw. Anastasia Pavlyuchenkova is 15th in the women`s rankings. The report said it was unclear whether players from Belarus would also be banned. Belarus is a key staging area for the invasion, which Russia calls a "special operation". ALSO READ | Dominic Thiem loses against John Millman on return from injury at Serbia Open Tennis governing bodies banned Russia and Belarus from international team competitions following the invasion. Individual players are allowed to compete on tours but not under the name or flag of their countries. British Sports Minister Nigel Huddleston said last month that he would not be comfortable with a "Russian athlete flying the Russian flag" and winning Wimbledon in London.

Russian players set to be barred from competing at Wimbledon 2022: Report

<p>Serena Williams has announced her return on the court as the American is&nbsp;set to participate in&nbsp;Wimbledon 2022, which will see her back in any competition after&nbsp;a year. She took to her official Instagram account on Tuesday (June 14) and wrote,&nbsp;"SW and SW19. It's a date. 2022, see you there."</p>

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<p>Further, the 40-year-old veteran also tagged Eastbourne in her post, hinting&nbsp;that she could potentially play in next week's grasscourt tournament on England's south coast -- i.e. a&nbsp;tune-up competition&nbsp;ahead&nbsp;of the Wimbledon.</p>

<p><strong>ALSO READ |&nbsp;</strong><a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/former-world-no-1-jelena-dokic-reveals-she-had-suicidal-thoughts-before-seeking-help-487987"><strong>Former World No. 1 Jelena Dokic reveals she had suicidal thoughts before seeking help</strong></a></p>

<p>It is to be noted that Serena, a 23-time Grand Slam winner,&nbsp;could've entered using a protected ranking which is reserved for players who have been sidelined through a long-term injury. However, she&nbsp;didn't do so and, hence, has now earned&nbsp;a wild card entry, confirmed by the tournament's organisers, to take part in ladies' singles. The forthcoming Wimbledon edition kicks off&nbsp;on June 27.</p>

<p>Serena will have a point to prove in the forthcoming championship. Out of her 7 singles trophies at the All England Club, the veteran last won the coveted title in the event in 2016. She, however, made it to the final in 2018 and 2019 post-pregnancy before crashing&nbsp;out in the opening round of last year's tournament, against Belarusia's&nbsp;Aliaksandra Sasnovich.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Since then, many had been contemplating whether Serena would make a comeback. Nonetheless, it is always <em>never-say-never</em> with the American player as she is set for another return in the last lap of her career.</p>


Serena Williams has announced her return on the court as the American is set to participate in Wimbledon 2022, which will see her back in any competition after a year.

Serena Williams has announced her return on the court as the American is set to participate in Wimbledon 2022, which will see her back in any competition after a year. She took to her official Instagram account on Tuesday (June 14) and wrote, "SW and SW19. It's a date. 2022, see you there." View this post on Instagram A post shared by Serena Williams (@serenawilliams) × Further, the 40-year-old veteran also tagged Eastbourne in her post, hinting that she could potentially play in next week's grasscourt tournament on England's south coast -- i.e. a tune-up competition ahead of the Wimbledon. ALSO READ | Former World No. 1 Jelena Dokic reveals she had suicidal thoughts before seeking help It is to be noted that Serena, a 23-time Grand Slam winner, could've entered using a protected ranking which is reserved for players who have been sidelined through a long-term injury. However, she didn't do so and, hence, has now earned a wild card entry, confirmed by the tournament's organisers, to take part in ladies' singles. The forthcoming Wimbledon edition kicks off on June 27. Serena will have a point to prove in the forthcoming championship. Out of her 7 singles trophies at the All England Club, the veteran last won the coveted title in the event in 2016. She, however, made it to the final in 2018 and 2019 post-pregnancy before crashing out in the opening round of last year's tournament, against Belarusia's Aliaksandra Sasnovich. Since then, many had been contemplating whether Serena would make a comeback. Nonetheless, it is always never-say-never with the American player as she is set for another return in the last lap of her career.

Serena Williams confirms her return at Wimbledon 2022, a year after superstar's last match

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