- India thumps Sri Lanka 110-69 in Badminton Asia Junior Mixed Team Championships opener.
- Indian women’s basketball team bows out of FIBA Asia Cup Division B semifinals.
- Football sees club updates with Leon Augustine’s contract renewal and new coach for Shillong Lajong FC.
India launched its campaign at the Badminton Asia Junior Mixed Team Championships with a resounding 110-69 victory over Sri Lanka in Indonesia.
Meanwhile, the Indian women’s basketball team saw its FIBA Women’s Asia Cup Division B journey end after a 76-93 defeat to Thailand.
Badminton Glory for India as Basketball and Football Chart Diverging Paths
India‘s badminton squad delivered a tactical masterclass in Solo, Indonesia, where the relay format rewarded depth and consistency. With no Indian pair or singles player dropping a set in the 11-point races, the performance highlighted the country’s bench strength and the successful grooming of its junior talent. Tanvi Sharma’s calm dominance confirmed her status as a rising star in international badminton.
On the basketball court, India’s spirited fight against Thailand ended in disappointment. Despite a high-scoring game, lapses in perimeter defense and turnovers proved costly. The defeat marks a missed opportunity to return to Division A, but the experience is expected to benefit the young squad ahead of upcoming Asian tournaments.
In football news, Punjab FC confirmed the contract extension of Leon Augustine until 2027. The winger’s versatility was on display throughout the Indian Super League season, where he clocked over 1,000 minutes across 20 appearances. His contribution in multiple roles underlines the club’s faith in his potential heading into a pivotal season.
Elsewhere, Shillong Lajong FC appointed club veteran Birendra Thapa as head coach. Thapa, fondly known as “Coach Biru”, has been associated with the club for over two decades. His elevation from assistant coach to head coach signals a strategic shift focused on continuity and grassroots development in the I-League structure.
From court to pitch, India experienced a spectrum of sporting emotions—dominance in badminton, learning curves in basketball, and promising developments in domestic football.
“Success is no accident. It is hard work, perseverance, learning, studying, sacrifice and most of all, love of what you are doing.” — Pelé
