Category Archives: sports

events, golf, politics, sports

Graeme McDowell shares his thoughts on team America’s ‘reset’ at the 2025 Ryder Cup

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LIV golfer Graeme McDowell recently expressed his desire to witness the ongoing Ryder Cup through a post on his social media. McDowell showed his support for the U.S. team as well as for President Donald Trump, who made an appearance at Bethpage on Day One of the biennial team event.

A seasoned Ryder Cup competitor, McDowell has represented Europe on four consecutive occasions: 2008, 2010, 2012, and 2014. He was part of the winning side in three of those tournaments, with the exception of the 37th edition in 2008.

Sharing his excitement about President Trump’s arrival at the 45th Ryder Cup, McDowell hoped that the 47th President of the United States would inspire the host team, which had a challenging start. Currently, the European team leads the tournament by four points, while Team USA has scored only two.

Looking forward to a turnaround for the American side, McDowell wrote on X:
“47 in the house. If the American team needed a reset and some inspiration, they just got it!!!! Scenes. Wish I was there. Man.”

After the completion of the first day’s Foursomes and Four-Ball matches, Team Europe maintains its lead. The U.S. team will aim to regain form over the next two days in hopes of reclaiming the title.

### McDowell’s Aspirations for the 2027 Ryder Cup at Adare Manor

Graeme McDowell is well-known for his pivotal role in leading his team to victory at the 2010 Ryder Cup held at Celtic Manor in Wales. He famously sank the winning shot against Hunter Mahan during the singles matches on the final day.

Looking ahead, McDowell hopes to be selected for the European team once again after more than a decade, targeting the 46th edition of the Ryder Cup scheduled to take place at Adare Manor, Ireland, in 2027.

In a recent interview, McDowell shared a heartfelt wish to be part of that event—even if it means taking a supporting role. Recalling a conversation with fellow LIV golfer Jon Rahm, he stated:

“It goes without saying as we look towards Adare Manor in two years’ time, I would do anything to be in that European team room, to be part of that team, to put that Team Europe shirt on one more time, to have the badge on my chest, to cheer the guys on and help Europe win another Ryder Cup. I hope to be there.”

McDowell also expressed his desire to give back to Team Europe, emphasizing his commitment and passion for the event. He has been actively sharing his thoughts and updates about the 2025 Ryder Cup on his social media platforms, keeping fans engaged and excited for the future of this prestigious competition.
https://www.sportskeeda.com/golf/news-graeme-mcdowell-shares-thoughts-team-america-s-reset-2025-ryder-cup

asia cup, bangalore, cricket, sports, team strategy

“Need yorkers from both ends” – Irfan Pathan’s massive statement on India’s playing XI ahead of Asia Cup 2025 final

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Former all-rounder Irfan Pathan has urged Team India to retain Arshdeep Singh in the playing XI for the Asia Cup 2025 final against Pakistan. According to Pathan, the Men in Blue must be prepared for situations where they need two bowlers capable of delivering yorkers from either end during the death overs.

India secured a thrilling victory over Sri Lanka in a Super Over in the Asia Cup 2025 Super 4 match held in Dubai on Friday, September 26. Batting first, India posted a total of 202-5, and Sri Lanka matched the score in reply. While Arshdeep was expensive in his initial four overs, he turned the game around in the Super Over by bowling impeccable yorkers and conceding only two runs. His outstanding performance ensured an easy win for India in the tiebreaker.

The left-arm pacer got his chance to play largely because a couple of regular players were rested for the game. With India having already qualified for the Asia Cup 2025 final, Jasprit Bumrah and Shivam Dube were both rested in the match against Sri Lanka, allowing Arshdeep Singh and Harshit Rana to feature.

Despite having played just two matches in the tournament so far, Irfan Pathan strongly backs Arshdeep’s inclusion in the playing XI for the final against Pakistan on Sunday, September 28. Speaking during a discussion on Sony Sports Network, the former all-rounder highlighted the importance of the 26-year-old pacer’s skills in high-pressure situations.

“First things first, he’s like ice. When the pressure is on, he asks for the ball and bowls. In the end overs, he is ready to bowl his yorkers. He bowls yorkers in tandem with Jasprit Bumrah when both play together. He is a bowler of that quality. For me, it’s nothing new. I have been saying from the first day that he should be in the playing XI,” Pathan explained.

He further added, “There are situations when you need yorkers from both ends. Today, the match went on till the very end. But, the Indian team’s thinking is that we need a long batting line-up. So, Shivam Dube is playing as an all-rounder. Since he is playing, Arshdeep is not finding a place. He will always be there in my playing XI.”

In the Super Over against Sri Lanka, Arshdeep made an immediate impact by dismissing Kusal Perera with the very first ball, having him caught at deep point. On the penultimate ball, Dasun Shanaka mistimed a full and wide delivery, sending it to deep backward point for another wicket.

A striking irony surrounds Arshdeep Singh’s current status in the team since he is India’s leading wicket-taker in T20 Internationals. The Punjab-born bowler has claimed 101 wickets in 65 matches at an impressive average of 18.76 and an economy rate of 8.37. He also has two four-wicket hauls to his name.

Hardik Pandya is the next highest Indian wicket-taker in the format with 98 wickets, followed by Yuzvendra Chahal (96), Jasprit Bumrah (94), Bhuvneshwar Kumar (90), and Kuldeep Yadav (82).

With such credentials, there is a strong case for Arshdeep Singh to be retained in the playing XI for the Asia Cup final as India prepare to take on arch-rivals Pakistan.
https://www.sportskeeda.com/cricket/news-irfan-pathan-arshdeep-singh-india-playing-xi-asia-cup-2025-final-pakistan

baseball, leadership, sports, world cup

Cardinals legend Albert Pujols reveals approach to managing Juan Soto-starring Dominican Republic at 2026 WBC

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A four-time All-Star and five-time Silver Slugger award winner, Juan Soto is undoubtedly one of the best hitters in the business. Currently batting .265, with 43 home runs and 105 RBIs, the Dominican standout has once again enjoyed an exceptional season.

Looking ahead, Soto is set to represent the Dominican Republic at the 2026 World Baseball Classic, continuing his role as a key figure on the international stage.

Another Dominican superstar who will be involved in the 2026 tournament is Albert Pujols. However, instead of featuring on the field, Pujols will take on a leadership role as the manager of the Dominican Republic baseball team.

In an exclusive interview on the “New York Post Sports” YouTube channel, Pujols spoke about the “honor” of being chosen to lead his country in the competition and his commitment to preparing for the challenge.

“I’m a player’s manager. I have the opportunity to go back this year to the Dominican Republic and to be able to lead them to a championship. They honored me and gave me the opportunity to lead the World Baseball Classic team. So, I’m doing a lot of hard work with that. Now I’m really focused on it,” Pujols shared.

He also discussed his aspirations beyond the Classic, expressing a hope to manage a Major League Baseball team in the future. “Hopefully [after this] I get an opportunity to be a manager in the big leagues. I’m staying busy with the things that I know and that I’m good at, just trying to continue to set an example for others,” Pujols added.

Alongside Juan Soto, several other big league stars are expected to suit up for the Dominican Republic in 2026. Given the wealth of Dominican talent currently active in Major League Baseball, it’s no surprise the country boasts a stacked National Team roster.

On the pitching side, the team can call upon talented arms like Freddy Peralta, Luis Gil, and Emmanuel Clase. The infield will feature big names such as Vladimir Guerrero Jr., Manny Machado, Elly De La Cruz, and Willy Adames. Meanwhile, the outfield is anchored by stars like Fernando Tatis Jr., Teoscar Hernandez, and Julio Rodriguez.

Behind the plate, catchers Yainer Diaz and Gary Sanchez are among the favorites to represent the Dominican Republic.

With such a star-studded lineup and the leadership of Albert Pujols, the Dominican Republic looks poised to make a strong impact at the 2026 World Baseball Classic.
https://www.sportskeeda.com/baseball/news-cardinals-legend-albert-pujols-reveals-approach-managing-juan-soto-starring-dominican-republic-2026-wbc

football, liverpool, sports

Liverpool star makes ‘massive’ Alexander Isak claim as classy Giovanni Leoni gesture revealed

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Cody Gakpo has reacted to Alexander Isak scoring his first Liverpool goal and Giovanni Leoni suffering an ACL injury ahead of the Reds’ trip to Crystal Palace this weekend.

The Liverpool forward sent a heartfelt message to team-mate Giovanni Leoni after the teenager was struck down by a serious ACL injury. The Italian defender impressed on his Reds debut against Southampton in midweek, only to be injured after landing awkwardly late in the second half.

Leoni was stretchered off the pitch, and it has since been confirmed that he has suffered an ACL injury. Liverpool manager Arne Slot admitted at his pre-match press conference on Friday that the young defender faces up to a year on the sidelines.

Leoni took to social media on Thursday to thank the Liverpool fanbase for their support following his injury. Several of his team-mates also offered their own messages of encouragement to the promising defender.

The Reds return to action on Saturday evening as they travel to face Crystal Palace. Ahead of the match, Gakpo shared how the Liverpool squad plan to support Leoni through his lengthy injury lay-off.

“It’s always sad to see that something like that happens,” Gakpo said. “We will try to be there for him as much as we can and to help him through this difficult period.”

Leoni was one of ten new signings at Liverpool this summer as the club embarked on a £450 million spending spree. Breaking the British transfer record twice to sign Florian Wirtz and Alexander Isak, the latter opened his account for Liverpool last time out against Southampton.

Having seen Isak regularly torment Liverpool in the past while playing for Newcastle United, Gakpo is delighted to now call the striker a team-mate. He also made a positive prediction for the impact of Liverpool’s record signing following his first goal for the club.

“That’s obviously massive for him, as well as for us,” Gakpo told the club website. “I think everybody knows how good he can be. We saw him in the Newcastle team scoring a lot of goals and hopefully he can do that for us as well. A very good player on the ball, off the ball. I’m very happy that he’s here.”
https://www.liverpoolecho.co.uk/sport/football/football-news/liverpool-star-makes-massive-alexander-32562196

british football, europa league, football, sports

Friday’s briefing: John McGinn gives Villa victory and more woe for Rangers

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Aston Villa secured their first win of the season with a 1-0 victory over Bologna in their Europa League opener at Villa Park.

### John McGinn Earns Aston Villa’s First Win

John McGinn’s early strike earned Aston Villa a much-needed victory in a hard-fought contest. Under Unai Emery, who is aiming to win the Europa League for a fifth time, Villa finally found the net at home after scoring only twice in their first six games of the season—both goals coming away from Villa Park.

Ollie Watkins came off the bench and had a penalty saved in the second half, prolonging his goal drought for the campaign. Meanwhile, Bologna goalkeeper Marco Bizot made several important saves but couldn’t prevent Villa from claiming the win.

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### Oh Hyeon-gyu Turns Up the Heat at Ibrox

Genk defeated 10-man Rangers 1-0 at Ibrox, with former Celtic striker Oh Hyeon-gyu scoring the decisive goal after missing an earlier penalty. The Belgian visitors hit the woodwork in the first half, and Rangers midfielder Mohamed Diomande was shown a straight red card in the 41st minute.

In added time, Rangers keeper Jack Butland saved a penalty from Oh, but the striker eventually broke the deadlock in the 55th minute with a close-range finish.

Rangers manager Russell Martin, who recently received some relief following a 2-0 win over Hibernian, remains under pressure as disgruntled fans voiced their frustrations at the final whistle.

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### William Saliba Agrees New Arsenal Contract

Arsenal defender William Saliba has agreed to a contract extension, according to the PA news agency. Reports indicate the France international has signed a five-year deal, keeping him at the club until 2030.

Saliba’s previous contract was set to expire in 2027. His impressive performances for the Gunners have reportedly attracted interest from Real Madrid.

The 24-year-old joined Arsenal from St Etienne in July 2019 but spent the following season on loan in France, with additional loan spells at Nice and Marseille. Since establishing himself at Emirates Stadium, Saliba has earned 28 caps for France and scored seven goals in 139 appearances across all competitions.

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### Rio Ngumoha Signs First Professional Contract with Liverpool

Liverpool teenager Rio Ngumoha has signed his first professional contract, just a month after turning 17. The winger, who arrived from Chelsea a year ago, has quickly risen through the ranks and earned a three-year deal with the Reds.

Ngumoha became Liverpool’s youngest goal-scorer at 16 years and 361 days after netting the match-winner against Newcastle in August. He has made five senior appearances, including his debut in the FA Cup third-round tie against Accrington last January.

After impressing in pre-season, Ngumoha was promoted to head coach Arne Slot’s first-team squad. His Premier League debut was highlighted by a last-minute winner against Newcastle at St James’ Park. Additionally, his recent substitute appearance in Liverpool’s Champions League win over Atletico Madrid marked him as the club’s youngest player in European competition history.

Off the pitch, Liverpool announced a record 1,114 lifetime bans have been issued for ticket touting, with nearly half imposed following the discovery of mass manipulation of software last season.

—

### What’s On Today?

Friday night’s live Sky Bet Championship action features promotion hopefuls Leicester City visiting West Bromwich Albion.

In Scotland, Ayrshire rivals Auchinleck Talbot and Cumnock Juniors meet in the first round of the Scottish Cup at Beechwood Park.

Ahead of this weekend’s Premier League fixtures, several clubs including Liverpool, Newcastle, Manchester United, Manchester City, Arsenal, Chelsea, and Tottenham will hold press conferences.
https://www.breakingnews.ie/sport/fridays-briefing-john-mcginn-gives-villa-victory-and-more-woe-for-rangers-1811284.html

animal health, entertainment, sports

‘We Don’t Know Whether…’: F1 Ferrari Driver Lewis Hamilton Shares Emotional Update Of His Dog Roscoe’s Health Battle

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**Lewis Hamilton Shares Heartfelt Message as Beloved Dog Roscoe Battles for Life**

Formula 1 legend and Ferrari driver Lewis Hamilton has opened up on Instagram about his beloved dog, Roscoe, who is currently fighting for his life. In a deeply emotional post, Hamilton revealed that Roscoe was hospitalized after suffering from pneumonia and experiencing severe breathing difficulties.

Hamilton explained that Roscoe, a familiar and adored companion to fans both on and off the racing circuit, was sedated by veterinary staff to undergo necessary medical checks. Tragically, during the procedure, Roscoe’s heart stopped. Thanks to emergency efforts, the medical team managed to revive him, but he is now in a coma.

“Please keep Roscoe in your thoughts,” Hamilton wrote. “I want to keep you all updated. Roscoe caught pneumonia again and was struggling to breathe. He was admitted into hospital and sedated to calm him while they did checks on him and during the process his heart stopped. They managed to get a heartbeat back and now he’s in a coma. We don’t know whether he will wake from this. Tomorrow we’ll try to wake him up. I’m by his side and want to thank you all for your prayers and support.”

The Formula 1 community and fans worldwide have flooded social media with messages of support and prayers, expressing hope for Roscoe’s recovery. As the racing world focuses on upcoming Grand Prix action, many are keeping a close eye on Hamilton’s updates, hoping for positive news about the pup who has been a significant part of his journey.

Hamilton’s post not only provides insight into the difficult moments he is facing but also highlights the deep emotional connections athletes share beyond the racetrack.

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**Lewis Hamilton Executes Dramatic 360-Degree Spin During Dutch Grand Prix Practice, Escapes Unscathed**

During the first practice session of the Dutch Grand Prix at Circuit Zandvoort, Lewis Hamilton provided a dramatic moment as his Ferrari spun 360 degrees at the iconic banked Turn 3.

The seven-time world champion lost control of the rear end while navigating the tight, steeply cambered corner but impressively managed to recover without any contact or major damage to his car.

The incident occurred midway through the session, which had already been challenging for many drivers due to the circuit’s technical layout and unpredictable grip levels. Approaching Turn 3, Hamilton appeared to misjudge his entry speed slightly, sending his rear tyres sliding and causing the car to rotate completely on the spot.

In a moment that had spectators holding their breath, Hamilton kept his composure. The Ferrari momentarily pirouetted on the tarmac before coming to a brief halt and continuing without stalling or striking the barriers.

Engineers on the pit wall and fans alike were relieved to see the Briton regain control with minimal drama, showcasing his razor-sharp reflexes and decades of driving experience.

Despite the spin, Hamilton’s Ferrari escaped with no visible damage, and he returned to the pits shortly afterward for routine checks. His radio message to the team was calm and focused, indicating he was ready to get back to business.

The Dutch Grand Prix weekend is especially critical for Hamilton and Ferrari, who are aiming to build momentum in the latter part of the 2025 season. While the first practice session didn’t go entirely to plan, Hamilton’s quick thinking may have saved the team from an early setback.
https://www.freepressjournal.in/sports/we-dont-know-whether-f1-ferrari-driver-lewis-hamilton-shares-emotional-update-of-his-dog-roscoes-health-battle

international relations, politics, sports

Suryakumar Yadav Fined 30% Of His Match Fees For His Tribute To Indian Armed Forces After India Vs Pakistan Asia Cup 2025 Clash

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Indian captain Suryakumar Yadav has been fined 30 percent of his match fee for comments made after the Asia Cup group league match against Pakistan, tournament organisers announced on Friday.

The penalty follows Suryakumar’s remarks alluding to the military skirmish between India and Pakistan in May. Pakistan had filed a complaint with the ICC, accusing him of making political comments after he dedicated India’s win over their archrivals on September 14 to the victims of the Pahalgam terror attack and the Indian armed forces.

Suryakumar pleaded not guilty to the charge. He was reportedly instructed to refrain from making any statements that could be interpreted as political for the remainder of the tournament. The hearing was conducted by ICC match referee Richie Richardson.

Tensions between the two teams have been high throughout the tournament. The situation escalated when India refused to engage in the traditional handshake with Pakistani players at the toss and after the games, as a gesture of solidarity with the Pahalgam victims.

(Note: Except for the headline, this article has not been edited by FPJ’s editorial team and is auto-generated from an agency feed.)
https://www.freepressjournal.in/sports/suryakumar-yadav-fined-30-of-his-match-fees-for-his-tribute-to-indian-armed-forces-after-india-vs-pakistan-asia-cup-2025-clash

asia cup, batting, cricket, india, sports

‘Please Take This As A Cricketing Observation’: Mohammad Kaif Clarifies His Tweet After Jasprit Bumrah Calls His Assessment ‘Inaccurate’ Amid Asia Cup 2025

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Former Indian cricketer Mohammad Kaif has politely responded to Jasprit Bumrah’s remarks regarding his observation about Suryakumar Yadav’s utilization of the pacer, calling the comment inaccurate. Kaif clarified that his statement was merely a cricketing observation made as a well-wisher and admirer, and was not intended to be critical.

In the ongoing Asia Cup, Suryakumar Yadav often bowls three overs upfront of Bumrah, which leaves the right-arm speedster with only one over at the end. Although Bumrah has struggled slightly at times, he has still delivered crucial performances for the Indian team. The Ahmedabad-born bowler remains the second-highest wicket-taker for India in the competition, with five wickets in four matches.

Earlier, Bumrah retweeted Kaif’s tweet and wrote, “Inaccurate before, inaccurate again.” Responding to Bumrah on X, Kaif maintained a respectful tone: “Please take this as a cricketing observation from a well-wisher and an admirer. You are Indian cricket’s biggest match-winner and I know what it takes to give it all when on field wearing India colours.”

In India’s recent match against Bangladesh, Jasprit Bumrah played a key role in their 41-run victory. Despite having leaked over 40 runs against Pakistan in an earlier game, Bumrah was in top form against Bangladesh, finishing with impressive bowling figures of 4-0-18-2. His disciplined bowling helped the Men in Blue defend a modest total of 168, restricting Bangladesh to 127.

India’s batting in the match was largely led by Abhishek Sharma, who smashed 75 runs off just 37 deliveries, continuing his formidable form in the tournament. Although India’s finish was not as strong as fans might have hoped, the team maintained control throughout. Bangladesh started positively but lost regular wickets, with Kuldeep Yadav shining as the pick of the Indian bowlers by claiming three wickets.

Looking ahead, India is set to face arch-rivals Pakistan in the Asia Cup final on September 28, Sunday, in Dubai. Before that high-stakes encounter, the Men in Blue will use their game against Sri Lanka to fine-tune their preparations and strategies.
https://www.freepressjournal.in/sports/please-take-this-as-a-cricketing-observation-mohammad-kaif-clarifies-his-tweet-after-jasprit-bumrah-calls-his-assessment-inaccurate-amid-asia-cup-2025

business, cricket, local sports, sports

Kanga League: Vinayak Bhoir’s All-Round Efforts Help Islam Gymkhana Brush Aside Khar Gymkhana

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All-rounder Vinayak Bhoir played an impressive role with both bat and ball to help Islam Gymkhana secure a win against Khar Gymkhana by gaining the first innings lead in a B Division match of the MCA Dr. H. D. Kanga Cricket League. The match was played at the Islam Gymkhana ground on Wednesday.

Sent in to bat first, Islam Gymkhana amassed a total of 192 runs for 9 wickets in 34.3 overs. Middle-order batsman Bhoir smashed a quick 73 runs off 59 balls, including four boundaries and six sixes. Khar Gymkhana’s medium pacer Abdul Khan was the pick of the bowlers, claiming 6 wickets for 45 runs.

In response, Islam Gymkhana’s bowling attack, led by medium pacer Javed Khan and left-arm spinner Vinayak Bhoir, dismantled Khar Gymkhana. Javed Khan took 4 wickets for 30 runs, while Bhoir picked up 3 for 35. They bowled out Khar Gymkhana for 127 runs in 39.5 overs, gaining a crucial first innings lead.

Islam Gymkhana started their second innings strongly, reaching 25 for 2 in 4.4 overs.

**Brief Scores – B Division:**

– Young Comrade CC: 98 all out in 31.2 overs (Shameet Shetty 28; Sachin Gupta 3/20) & 65 for 5 in 22.5 overs (Mayuresh Tandel 37)
Vs Sind SC: 128 for 4 declared in 30.2 overs (Sai Chavan 45, Sujay Thakkar 28; Shameet Shetty 3/45)
*Result:* Sind SC won on 1st innings lead.

– New Hindu CC: 172 all out in 53.5 overs (Vinay Kunwar 36, Rohit Shukla 28; Sachin Solanki 4/44, Vedant Gurav 3/27)
Vs Sainath SC: 97 all out in 24.2 overs (Jigar Rana 36; Rajesh Sardar 5/23, Jugraj Mehta 4/22)
*Result:* New Hindu CC won on 1st innings lead.

– Islam Gymkhana: 192 for 9 in 34.3 overs (Vinayak Bhoir 73, Sufiyan Shaikh 28, Shashwat Pathak 25; Abdul Khan 6/45) & 25 for 2 in 4.4 overs
Vs Khar Gymkhana: 127 all out in 39.5 overs (Swayam Waghmare 42; Javed Khan 4/30, Vinayak Bhoir 3/35, Hitesh Kadam 3/52)
*Result:* Islam Gymkhana won on 1st innings lead.

– Goregaon Sports Club: 116 all out in 39.4 overs (Rohan Bhosale 43; Kunal Thorat 7/20) & 20 for no loss
Vs Shivaji Park Youngsters SC: 120 for 6 declared in 29 overs (Shubham Shinde 50)
*Result:* Shivaji Park Youngsters won on 1st innings lead.

– Muslim United SC: 195 for 9 in 39.5 overs (Shashikant Kadam 77, Mahamad Yaseen Saudagar 34; Khizar Dafedar 4/55, Harsh Mendon 3/27)
Vs Dadar Union SC: 134 for 6 in 29 overs (Ashay Akre 45, Aadit Degaonkar 31)
*Result:* Match drawn.

– Payyade SC: 144 all out in 41.2 overs (Omkar Ghule 29, Vicky Patil 27, Vedant Gadia 26; Anikit Vishwakarma 3/16, Jagdish Jadhav 3/34, Sandeep Pawar 3/53)
Vs United Cricketers: 118 for 6 in 39.1 overs (Prithvik Pandit 45, Darshan Kamthe 27; Ajay Mishra 5/28)
*Result:* Match drawn.
https://www.freepressjournal.in/sports/kanga-league-vinayak-bhoirs-all-round-efforts-help-islam-gymkhana-brush-aside-khar-gymkhana

american football, entertainment, sports

Loser of the Ravens-Chiefs matchup faces difficult road to Super Bowl contention

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The Kansas City Chiefs and Baltimore Ravens entered the season with Super Bowl-or-bust goals. One of them will be 1-3 after this week’s matchup—unless the game ends in a tie.

Coming off a 38-30 loss at home to Detroit on Monday night, Baltimore will travel to Kansas City to face the Chiefs on Sunday in a critical showdown for both teams. Historically, only the 2001 New England Patriots have started 1-3 and gone on to win the Super Bowl, underscoring the challenge ahead for the losing side.

“I feel like the way we performed was a hole; a huge hole, but it’s still the beginning of the season,” Lamar Jackson said after being sacked seven times by the Lions. “We have a lot of work to do, and we just have to execute.”

This Sunday’s game will feature a unique quarterback duel. According to NFL research, the Jackson-Mahomes matchup will be the first between multiple-time MVP quarterbacks in which both entered the game with losing records for the season. It also marks the first time multi-time MVP QBs face off with a combined record below .500.

### AFC Struggles Continue

The AFC is off to a surprisingly slow start this year. Only six teams in the conference hold a winning record, including just three playoff qualifiers from last season: the Buffalo Bills (3-0), Los Angeles Chargers (3-0), and Pittsburgh Steelers (2-1).

In contrast, all seven NFL playoff teams from the NFC in 2024 currently boast winning records, joined by three additional clubs. Except for the Houston Texans (0-3)—two-time defending AFC South champions—no team truly needs to panic yet.

Houston is in a particularly difficult spot, trailing division rivals Indianapolis (3-0) and Jacksonville (2-1), both playing well early on.

Despite Baltimore’s tough road ahead, Bet MGM Sportsbook still ranks the Ravens with the second-best odds to win the Super Bowl, trailing only Philadelphia. The Bills currently lead the betting odds, while the Eagles (3-0) and Packers (2-1) are tied for third. Interestingly, Philadelphia’s odds dropped slightly even as the Eagles remain undefeated.

### Quarterback Carousel Heating Up

The NFL trade deadline isn’t until November 4, but some teams are already eyeing quarterback options.

The New York Giants could be contacted about Russell Wilson or Jameis Winston, as rookie Jaxson Dart has taken the lead role there. Meanwhile, the Cincinnati Bengals, who went 4-3 with Jake Browning filling in for an injured Joe Burrow last season, suffered their worst loss in franchise history—a 48-10 defeat against Minnesota.

Browning is familiar with coach Zac Taylor’s offense, but Russell Wilson might bring a spark, especially throwing to top receivers Ja’Marr Chase and Tee Higgins. Wilson notably threw for 450 yards against the Cowboys in Week 2, indicating he could be productive if moved.

### Throw Eagles Throw

Philadelphia quarterback Jalen Hurts had zero touchdown passes in the first 10 quarters of the season before the Eagles fell behind the Rams by 19 points. The offense then opened up dramatically.

Hurts completed 17 of 24 passes for 209 yards and three touchdowns in the second half, helping Philadelphia secure a 33-26 victory, capped by Jordan Davis’ blocked field goal.

Why was the passing attack stagnant early on?

“We want to be the aggressive person, right? The word this past week for the offense when I spoke to the offense was ‘attack,’” offensive coordinator Kevin Patullo explained. “We want to be in attack mode, and going into the game, that was what we wanted to do. The first drive was a good drive. We went for it on fourth down, we threw the ball down into the red zone at the goal lines. We were in attack mode.

“We got stuck in those weird situations where we just couldn’t get it out of there and get it going. And then the second half, obviously, we had to play a little bit differently, but we were able to get it going.”

### Rookie Bond

Texans rookie wide receivers Jayden Higgins and Jaylin Noel have developed a close friendship dating back to their time at Iowa State. Their tight-knit relationship has only grown stronger since Houston selected Higgins in the second round and Noel in the third round of the NFL Draft.

The duo shares a love of fishing and started a “J&JFishinn” TikTok channel while in college. Although their NFL careers demand their full attention now, they still hope to find time to fish whenever possible.

In the first three games, Higgins has recorded four catches for 65 yards, while Noel has two receptions for 11 yards.

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*On Football* analyzes the biggest topics in the NFL from week to week. For more in-depth NFL analysis, [head here](https://apnews.com/hub/nfl).

—

*AP NFL:* https://apnews.com/hub/nfl
https://wgntv.com/sports/ap-sports/ap-loser-of-the-ravens-chiefs-matchup-faces-difficult-road-to-super-bowl-contention/