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On April 18, after the game, Fatima commended her squad's diligent efforts, saying, “Qualifying is highly significant, and all the praise belongs to the whole team.” Additionally, she emphasized their objective to secure victory over Bangladesh in their last encounter, striving to conclude the qualifying rounds atop the leaderboard undefeated. In their game against Thailand, Pakistan scored a total of 205 runs with six wickets down. They began steadily before Sidra Amin helped steady the ship during crucial moments. Towards the close of their innings, Fatima added significant contributions. Despite feeling the bowling pressure exerted by Thailand’s players, Fatima believed the squad made the most out of chances presented late in the match. On the cricket front, Fatima Sana and her teammates put up a commendable show, claiming three wickets apiece. This triumph marks four successive wins for Pakistan in the qualifiers. Moving forward, they will square off against Bangladesh...

The National Council on Sports has officially capped the number of sports at 32 for the 2024 National Sports Festival. This decision aims to ensure consistency and strategic direction for Nigeria’s leading multisport competition. The PUNCH reports. The choice was made at an Emergency Meeting conducted on Wednesday in Abeokuta, Ogun State, subsequent to a presentation of a memo by the National Sports Commission. The NSC Director General, Bukola Olopade, signed a statement confirming that the 32 sports will include 27 mandatory events along with up to five additional optional ones, which can be selected by the hosting state. The policy is based on Rule 11 from the 2024 National Sports Festival’s overall guidelines and regulations, as confirmed again by the Council at their recent gathering. This particular rule had been first approved during an earlier Extraordinary Council session conducted in Benin City back in 2019. The mandatory sports for inclusion w...

On April 17, Arslan Ash, the renowned PakistaniTekken 8 player, disclosed that he would not be participating in two significant esports competitions scheduled for 2025. According to him, unresolved visa issues are preventing his attendance at both the Riyadh Gamers8 and Evo Japan events. The lack of Arslan, one of the leading figures in the global Tekken community, is a letdown for both spectators and event planners. Earlier successes this year had set high hopes for his performance in upcoming tournaments. In an announcement posted on X (previously known as Twitter), he conveyed his vexation over the visa issues that led to his withdrawal. Arsalan mentioned, “Despite my best efforts to attend, I ran intovisa issues once more.” He recognized the difficulties that South Asian participants often face when trying to join international competitions. Such obstacles underscore a larger problem impacting numerous esports competitors from less developed countries. Even with this hu...

Rayon Sports, often regarded as Rwanda’s favorite and most popular team, faces an ongoing challenge driven internally: disarray within the organization. Even though they possess considerable skill, supporters, and assets needed to excel locally in soccer, the Blues find themselves trapped in a pattern of strong beginnings, midseason declines, and reactive measures that erase all advancements achieved. Most recently, this recurring narrative reached another turning point with the suspension—or perhaps dismissal—of chief coach Roberto Oliveira "Robertinho." Ostensibly cited as being sidelined because of illness, many believe the true cause lies in the squad’s underperformance; specifically, securing merely two victories out of ten matches along with relinquishing leadership to adversaries APR FC. This move makes Robertinho appear more like a casualty of a wider systemic issue rather than simply someone whose tactical strategies faltered. It bears noting that every thriving f...

Bengaluru (Karnataka), India, April 17 (ANI): The Indian Ministry of Youth Affairs and Sports' Junior Minister, Raksha Nikhil Khadse, visited Bengaluru for a two-day trip. Sports Authority of India ( SAI The Bengaluru campus will obtain firsthand knowledge about the execution of the Indian government's sports initiatives at the community level, as stated in an official announcement from the Sports Authority of India. This visit provided a chance to interact directly with athletes, coaches, officials, and specialists who are integral parts of India's sporting landscape. Raksha Nikhil Khadse attended an evening gathering for top-tier athletes such as Olympic participants, recipients of the Dronacharya Award, and winners of the Dhyan Chand Award. Also present were members from the Senior Women’s Hockey team, track-and-field athletics squad, and para-athletes. During this event, she engaged in conversations with both athletes and coaching...

“The Tokyo 2020 and Paris 2024 Olympic Games were satisfying and gave me the opportunity to streamline the operations and governance of NOC-K. Covid-19 pandemic stretched all of us but NOC-K came out a better organisation and us, better administrators.Serving the Olympic Movement in Kenya has been an incredible honour. As one who championed the establishment and practice of good governance at NOC-K, I am duly happy to conclude my constitutional term of eight years and pave the way for the next elected leader according to our constitution and the Sports Act of Kenya.As we prepare to usher in a new president and his team, I am sure that the national federation membership will decide who will be the best person to take over from me.I have given my all to build the institution and I am leaving with my head held high and proud to hand over a NOC-K with a solid foundation. NOC-K is an established brand that is strong financially and capable of meeting its current and future endeavours.Read: ...

President William Ruto disclosed that one of his offspring is currently pursuing a master’s degree in sports management. While launching Kenya’s U-20 football squad, the Rising Stars, for their upcoming AFCON championship in Egypt, he broke the news about it. Ruto mentioned that his son has a strong interest in football and wishes to play a role in advancing sports development within the nation. President William Ruto has expressed how much his son enjoys sports. Which one of Ruto’s offspring is currently pursuing a degree in sports management? On Tuesday, April 15, the president welcomed the Rising Stars at State House in Nairobi. Ruto launched the U-20 football squad as they departed for the African Cup of Nations in Egypt. Their inaugural game will be on May 1 against Morocco. "I've got your back, just like I mentioned before, and I'm asking you to let me reach the AFCON finals. You can count on me being there,...

During the inauguration event in Abeokuta on Tuesday evening, Governor Dapo Abiodun announced that the state is prepared to host an impressive National Sports Festival scheduled for May 16th through May 30th. The Ogun State Government has revealed the mascot, logo, and theme song for the 2024 National Sports Festival, which will be called Gateway Games 2024. During the inauguration event in Abeokuta on Tuesday evening, Governor Dapo Abiodun stated that the state is prepared to host an impressive National Sports Festival taking place from May 16-30. Mr. Abiodun, who was represented by his Deputy, Noimot Salako-Oyedele, stated that the festival would serve as a benchmark in the annals of the games. We are prepared to elevate the standards considerably, after nearly twenty years since Ogun last held this multisport event. He mentioned that the mascot embodies the vigor and cultural legacy of the fine residents of Ogun. The governor prai...

Not many aspiring race drivers from Saudi Arabia will be aware of the 1980s British stock car scene – but those wet, windy days of 40 years ago inspired a passion in motorsport for one man now looking to boost interest in the Middle East. Ryan Trutch grew up watching all forms of motorsport with his father and was hooked on Nigel Mansell, Ayrton Senna and Alain Prost before going on to compete in several different series himself after his family relocated to Dubai. Now, having previously served on the UAE national motorsports development committee and worked as commercial director of the Dubai Autodrome, Trutch is the CEO and founder of Pole Position, a consultancy and events business with aims of driving up grassroots commitments to motorsport. “It’s grown exponentially - we've gone from a few passionate racers driving on makeshift tracks to hosting world-class events like F1, Formula E, Extreme E, and Dakar, drawing large audiences,” Trutch tells InfoterkiniBusiness wh...

Alioune Kebe, Liberia's Sports Ambassador-at-Large, has expressed gratitude to President Joseph Boakai for his appointment and reiterated his dedication to leveraging sports as a means of empowering young people, fostering change, and promoting national cohesion. In an extensive report covering his initial year in office—from April 2024 to April 2025—Ambassador Kebe highlighted significant accomplishments such as founding several sports academies, making personal monetary donations, and backing national teams. These efforts were aimed at realizing President Boakai's ARREST Agenda. Kebe expressed deep appreciation for being honored with the role of Ambassador-at-Large for Youth and Sports Development," he stated. "The trust you have placed in me fuels an unwavering dedication to expanding prospects for Liberia’s young people and using sports as a driving force for societal transformation. One of the key initiatives during his term was the l...

On Tuesday, the Governor of Ogun State, Dapo Abiodun, revealed the mascot, logo, and theme song for the 2024 National Sports Festival scheduled to take place in the state between May 16 and 30, 2025. Represented by her deputy, Noimot Salako-Oyedele, Abiodun vowed that the state would present "the most remarkable, most inclusive, and most inspirational National Sports Festival Nigeria has ever witnessed." During the unveiling ceremony at the June 12 Cultural Centre on Tuesday evening, the governor remarked that although the state had previously hosted the sports event almost twenty years ago, it is well-prepared to host the nation once again, featuring numerous innovative elements aimed at reshaping the national games festival. Abiodun highlighted that the state takes pride in presenting the creativity and skills embodied in the theme song — abundant with rhythm and spirit — which was crafted by Dr. Bayo Adepetun. Meanwhile, the Mascot came into existen...

Mukura Victory Sports risks losing their Peace Cup semifinal first-leg encounter against Rayon Sports after officials halted play within 20 minutes because of a power failure at Huye Stadium. Originally scheduled to begin at 5 PM, the kickoff faced a delay of 27 minutes as both teams' managers argued with the umpires. Just three minutes into the match, Rayon Sports managed to get one past Mukura’s defense; however, Abeddy Biramahire was ruled offside, nullifying the goal. Shortly thereafter, Rayon got another opportunity when Junior Elenga attempted a long-range shot, though goalkeeper Nicholas Sebwato blocked it. In the 14th minute, Mukura came close when Zuberi Hakizimana fired towards the net, hitting the edge instead. Later, in the 17th minute, he nearly scored again after receiving a precise assist from Boateng Mensah but narrowly missed connecting properly. The electricity cut out during the 20-minute mark, causing all participants to retreat indoors pending resolution. D...

The government of Bauchi State remains confident that it will triumph at the upcoming 2025, 22nd National Sports Festival scheduled for Ogun State. The State Deputy Governor, Auwal Jatau, provided this guarantee on Saturday when he disclosed that Governor Bala Mohammed had sanctioned the involvement of their state in the upcoming event. During his meeting with athletes, coaches, and officials from the National Sports Commission, who visited out of solidarity at the Government House in Bauchi, Jatau expressed gratitude to the governor for granting approval. He mentioned that plans were underway to make sure the state’s athletes could participate comprehensively and perform well in the upcoming festival. He remembered that Bauchi State's involvement in the National Sports Festival from its start in 1976 has continuously highlighted athletes' skills in events like athletics, boxing, football, and various other major sporting categories, earning numerous meda...

On April 14, Pakistan reported that Bangladesh has reinstated the wording “except Israel” on its passports. This move follows widespread demonstrations condemning Israel’s activities in Gaza. Previously, the phrase was eliminated in 2021 to comply with global travel protocols during Sheikh Hasina’s tenure as prime minister. However, the current administration has now overturned this earlier stance due to significant public dissent. On April 12, 2025, approximately 100,000 individuals assembled in Dhaka to denounce Israel’s military operations in Gaza. The demonstrators waved Palestinian flags and shouted phrases such as “Free Palestine.” Additionally, they expressed disapproval towards several international figures who endorsed Israeli policies, notably US President Donald Trump and Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu. Despite the reinstatement of the passport phrase, Bangladesh still does not have diplomatic relations with Israel. The country remains committed to suppor...

A week filled with intermittent turmoil has passed. Every Original Equipment Manufacturer must account for global factors. What strategies do you have in mind? The content you're about to read has undergone numerous revisions. It was initially penned, then edited multiple times, discarded, retrieved from being thrown out of a window, salvaged as if falling through the sky without a parachute, erased, reinstated, altered again, cooked in various ways including baking and frying, modified perhaps with partial hydrogenation for effect, and finally prepared using both a tabletop convection oven and an air fryer. There might have even been additional adjustments along the way that I can no longer recall precisely. However, I’ve come to accept the disorder; or at least, that’s what I like to believe. That’s why I’m sharing it today. Whenever there are changes (and they likely will occur, given how dynamic and evolving this matter is), I’ll ensure to include them (along...

The refurbished Mohammed V Sports Complex in Casablanca, after undergoing significant renovations, welcomed spectators again on Saturday night for the match between Wydad and Raja, marking Matchday 26 of the Botola Pro D1 "Inwi" soccer league. The renovation initiative for this iconic arena located in the financial hub forms part of an overall plan to enhance stadiums ahead of significant sports tournaments such as the 2025 Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON) and the 2030 World Cup. The project, initiated in March 2024 and finished in March 2025, involved replacing all 45,000 seating areas within this iconic national soccer venue, as reported by the National Agency for Public Equipment (ANEP). Additionally, improvements were made to enhance the press facilities, audio systems, security cameras, and entry management. This project encompassed the construction of four adaptable locker rooms along with warm-up areas, the establishment of a mixed zone and a modernized central...

On April 13, Accra time, Casablanca's refurbished Mohammed V Stadium made its comeback during the match between Wydad and Raja for Matchday 26 of the Botola Pro D1 "Inwi" soccer league. The venue recently completed significant renovations aimed at enhancing its facilities. The renovation initiative for this iconic stadium located in the financial hub forms part of an overall plan to improve stadiums ahead of significant sports tournaments such as the 2025 Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON) and the 2030 World Cup. The project, initiated in March 2024 and concluded in March 2025, involved replacing all 45,000 seating units within this iconic national stadium, as reported by the National Agency for Public Equipment (ANEP). The upgrades also included enhancements to the press area, audio systems, video monitoring facilities, and security checkpoints. This project encompassed the construction of four adaptable locker rooms along with warm-up areas, as well a...

Bangladesh, which has a Muslim majority, does not recognize Israel. The exception for Israel was omitted in 2021 during former Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina’s time in office. Bangladesh Has reinstated an "excluding Israel" notation on passports, as per local media reports on Sunday, thereby restricting its residents from visiting that nation. In Muslim-majority Bangladesh, where Israel is not recognized, the country views it as a contentious topic. The statement "applicable in all nations apart from Israel," which had been featured on Bangladeshi passports for many years, was eliminated towards the end of former Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina’s administration. She was defeated in August. Are you looking for insights into the most significant issues and developments globally? Find your answers here. SCMP Knowledge Our latest platform features handpicked content including explainers, FAQs, analyses, and infographics, all provided by our acclaimed team. N...

By Kingsley Mamore In Dambai (O/R), on April 13 — The Ghana News Agency reports that Mr. Kofi Adams, who serves as both the Sports Minister and Member of Parliament for the Buem constituency, has shown support for 18-year-old Susana Ampadu Nimo, who was found to have a brain tumor. Mr. Adams contributed GHC 27,500 to fund Susana’s crucial operation. The contribution was made following an appeal from the Tamale Teaching Hospital, where Susana is being treated. The money will assist with the expenses related to her implant, surgical procedure, lab tests, and medications. Mr. Adams offered his warmest regards to Susana for her upcoming operation and urged her family to stay optimistic, placing their trust in divine direction and safeguarding. The donation was handed over by Mr. Eric Adom, who represents the Buem Constituency for the National Democratic Congress (NDC) party, on behalf of the Sports Minister. GNA MA/CA Provided by Synd...

To everyone’s astonishment,Team Bayelsa clinched the title of overall champions at the first ever Niger Delta Sports Festival, narrowly defeating established strongholdsDeltaandEdostatesin an exciting competition staged inUyo,thecapitalofAkwaIbomState. The seven-day festival, supported by the Niger Delta Development Commission (NDDC), brought together athletes from all nine Niger Delta states who competed in various events. The event was marked by intense competitions, remarkable skills, and thrilling conclusions—especially the nail-biting gold medal contest between teams from Bayelsa and Delta. At the end of the competition, Bayelsa topped the medal table with 42 gold, 29 silver, and 15 bronze medals, totaling 86 medals. Just one gold medal separated them from Delta State, which finished a close second with 41 gold, 26 silver, and 32 bronze - the highest overall medal count at 99. Edo State claimed the third spot with 23 gold, 35 silver, and 31 bronze medals, to...