Category Archives: sports

Raffles Hotels & Resorts Strengthens Its Legacy in Rajasthan with the 2026 Raffles Sirmour Cup

Jaipur, India, Jan 29:  Raffles Hotels & Resorts is pleased to reaffirm its association with the prestigious Rajasthan Polo Club through the continued sponsorship of the Raffles Sirmour Cup (14 goals)—one of the marquee tournaments of the Jaipur Polo Season. In 2026, Raffles Jaipur and Raffles Udaipur come together as co-sponsors, reinforcing the brand’s commitment to heritage-led experiences in India and its enduring belief in preserving and celebrating cultural traditions.

The Raffles Sirmour Cup 2026 will be held from 9–15 February 2026, bringing together distinguished players, patrons and polo enthusiasts to celebrate the rich and storied legacy of the sport in the Pink City.

Founded under the patronage of the Royal Family of Jaipur, the Rajasthan Polo Club remains a proud custodian of Rajasthan’s equestrian heritage. Its historic grounds have, over the decades, welcomed global dignitaries including His Royal Highness Prince Philip and Her Majesty the Queen of England, HRH Prince Charles and the late Lady Diana, and former United States First Lady Jacqueline Kennedy, among others. Today, the Club continues to attract exceptional polo talent from India and abroad, seamlessly blending tradition with contemporary sporting excellence.

For Raffles, supporting the Sirmour Cup reflects a deep respect for the cultural fabric of Rajasthan. Polo, in this context, represents lineage, craftsmanship, camaraderie and pride—values that align closely with the brand’s philosophy. By championing the tournament, Raffles contributes to preserving this living legacy while offering guests an authentic window into a tradition that continues to define the region.

Commenting on the association, Rajat Sethi, Cluster General Manager, Raffles and Fairmont Jaipur, said,

“The Jaipur Polo Season is one of the city’s most defining winter traditions, and the Raffles Sirmour Cup holds a special place in that calendar. For Raffles Jaipur, this partnership allows us to deepen our role as a cultural partner—connecting guests with Jaipur’s heritage while celebrating the elegance, excellence and spirit of the sport.”

Gurnoor Bindra, General Manager, Raffles Udaipur, added,

“At Raffles Udaipur, our philosophy is rooted in thoughtful hospitality that honours India’s rich cultural heritage. Supporting the Raffles Sirmour Cup strengthens our commitment to preserving tradition and celebrating a sport deeply interwoven with Rajasthan’s identity. We look forward to contributing to a season that brings together legacy, sport and distinguished company.”

Through this continued partnership, Raffles Jaipur and Raffles Udaipur honour a cherished sporting tradition while offering guests a refined and immersive glimpse into Jaipur’s most iconic winter moments where heritage, community and the unmistakable charm of Raffles converge on and beyond the polo field.

Rohtak Royals rope in four sponsors ahead of inaugural Kabaddi Champions League season

Rohtak, Jan 24: Rohtak Royals, the franchise representing the city of Rohtak in the inaugural Kabaddi Champions League (KCL), have announced a strong line-up of sponsors for the upcoming season of the KCL. Adroit Sports LLP-owned Rohtak Royals franchisee, has roped in Ixigo as the Official Travel Partner and John Players as the Official Loungewear Partner, while Campus Activewear and MuscleBlaze have come on board as the Official Footwear and Nutrition Partners, respectively. The partnerships mark a significant step for the Rohtak Royals as they prepare for their first-ever campaign in the Kabaddi Champions League, underlining the growing commercial appeal of the franchise and the league.

Commenting on the sponsorship announcements, Aishwarya Bhargava, COO, Rohtak Royals, said,

“We are delighted to welcome Ixigo, John Players, Campus Shoes, and MuscleBlaze to the Rohtak Royals family. These partnerships come at a crucial time as we gear up for the inaugural season of the Kabaddi Champions League. Each of these brands aligns perfectly with our vision of performance, professionalism, and fan engagement, and we look forward to building long-term associations with them.”

Head Coach Surender Nada added,

“Strong support off the mat plays a vital role in a team’s success on the mat. Having reputed brands come on board gives our players added confidence and motivation as we prepare for a challenging season ahead. We are focused on putting up strong performances and representing Rohtak with pride.”

Ixigo, India’s leading online travel platform, comes on board as the Official Travel Partner of Rohtak Royals. Known for its user-friendly interface and data-driven travel solutions, Ixigo will support the team’s travel requirements through the season, ensuring seamless and efficient travel for players and support staff.

John Players, a renowned name in men’s fashion, joins the franchise as the Official Loungewear Partner. With a strong focus on comfort, style, and versatility, John Players’ association adds a touch of modern lifestyle appeal to the Rohtak Royals brand, catering to both athletes and fans alike.

Campus Activewear, one of India’s biggest domestic sports and athleisure lifestyle brands, has been named the Official Footwear Partner of Rohtak Royals. Campus offers a diverse product portfolio for the entire family. With the changing market dynamics, Campus has sustained its focus on product design and innovation by facilitating access to the latest global trends and styles through a fashion-forward approach.

MuscleBlaze, a pioneer in the sports nutrition space in India, has come on board as the Official Nutrition Partner. Trusted by athletes across disciplines, MuscleBlaze will play a key role in supporting the fitness, recovery, and overall performance needs of the Rohtak Royals squad during the season.

Earlier, KMC Constructions Limited joined hands with Adroit Sports Ventures as the Strategic Partner for Rohtak Royals, combining infrastructure-led expertise with a focused sports development vision aligned with “Kheloge Kudoge Banoge Lajawaab.” Backed by Mr. Shashank Shekhar, Director, KMC Constructions Limited, Adroit Sports Ventures operates across talent identification, high-performance training, event management, and sports infrastructure, guided by Mr. Gajendra Sharma and led by Mrs. Aishwarya Bhargava, with the Rohtak Royals franchise jointly owned by Adroit Sports Ventures and Mr. Surender Malik.

Rohtak Royals will begin their inaugural Kabaddi Champions League campaign against Karnal Kings on January 25, 2026. The Kabaddi Champions League is scheduled to be held from January 25 to February 7, featuring eight teams in the league’s first season.

Rohit Sharma Rallies India to Take on History in Jiostar’s Campaign for ICC Men’s T20 World Cup 2026

Chandigarh, Jan 23: JioStar today unveiled its campaign for the ICC Men’s T20 World Cup India & Sri Lanka 2026, positioning the tournament not as a routine title defence for India, but as a once-in-a-generation moment to take on history itself. Led by Rohit Sharma, the captain who won India their second ICC Men’s T20 World Cup in 2024, the campaign film is anchored in a powerful provocation. India’s biggest opponent in 2026 is not another team. It is history.

Titled “History Repeat Karenge. History Defeat Karenge”, the film frames India’s campaign as a face-off with records that have never been broken in the ICC Men’s T20 World Cup.

• No team has ever defended an ICC Men’s T20 World Cup title
• No host nation has ever won the trophy on home soil
• No country has ever lifted the ICC Men’s T20 World Cup three times

As defending champions and the world’s top ranked T20I side, India are on the brink of achieving all three.

The campaign film opens with Rohit Sharma addressing the nation, not as a tactician dissecting rivals, but as a leader reflecting on legacy. While he acknowledges the strength of traditional competitors, his focus shifts to an intangible but formidable adversary. “Beyond teams and players, there is another opponent standing in our way. History,” he says.

The message moves from statistics to belief, reminding fans that cricket is not played in record books, but on the field. The film closes with Rohit rallying the nation to back a team that does not just aim to repeat history, but to defeat it.

Conceptualised by JioStar’s creative team, the campaign celebrates the sustained dominance of India’s men’s team in the shortest format, from being the number one ranked T20I side to featuring the world’s top-ranked batter and bowler. It reflects an unflinching ambition to push boundaries that have never been crossed before.

“This World Cup is unique because India isn’t just playing against a diverse array of nations; they are playing against decades of never-been-done-before,” said Siddharth Sharma, Head – Sports Content, JioStar. “Our campaign captures the intent to overcome historic odds. It’s about the audacity to believe that while history is written about the past, it can be rewritten by the present.”

The campaign follows JioStar’s recent film featuring India’s Women’s World Champions, where Jemimah Rodrigues, Shafali Verma and Deepti Sharma come together to back the men’s team. Having recently lifted their first-ever ICC title, their support marks a distinctive shift in how the women’s game has grown in stature, with India’s women’s champions backing the men’s team to go all the way in a role reversal.

India begin their ICC Men’s T20 World Cup 2026 campaign against USA in Mumbai on February 7, followed by matches against Namibia on February 12, Pakistan on February 15 and the Netherlands on February 18. The tournament runs from February 7 to March 8, with all matches live on JioHotstar and Star Sports Network.

Ranji Trophy Coach Nikhil Doru Graces 13th Annual National Inter-College Sports Meet at Jaipuria Institute of Management, Jaipur

Jaipur, Jan 15:  Jaipuria Institute of Management, Jaipur, successfully organised its 13th Annual National Inter-College Sports Meet on January 9 and 10, 2026, hosting two days of high-energy competition, discipline and sporting excellence on campus. The prestigious event was graced by Mr. Nikhil Doru, former India A cricketer, accomplished Ranji Trophy player, and current Ranji Trophy coach, as the Chief Guest.

Welcoming the gathering, Dr. Daneshwar Sharma, Director (In-charge), congratulated the organising team for the successful conduct of the 13th edition of the National Sports Meet. Dr. Lokesh Vijayvargy, Dean – Student Affairs, shared that over 850 students from more than 25 colleges across India participated in the two-day sporting extravaganza, making it one of the most vibrant editions to date.

The sports meet commenced with an impressive march past led by the Sports Committee and the Desert Devils Club, symbolising unity, discipline and competitive spirit. This was followed by a soulful Saraswati Vandana, setting an auspicious and inspiring tone for the event.

The inauguration ceremony was further enriched by the presence of Dr. Anbesh Jamwal and Mr. Devesh Vashishta, Faculty Chairs of the Sports Committee and Desert Devils Club, along with Dr. V. K. Tomar, Chief Administrative Officer. Students from Jaipuria Institute of Management, Noida, also motivated the participants and appreciated the dedicated efforts of the organising team. Dr. Arun Singh Rana delivered the vote of thanks.

The valedictory ceremony witnessed the felicitation of winners across multiple sporting disciplines. First prize winners included UEM (Basketball – Boys), Poornima University (Basketball – Girls, Gully Cricket – Boys, Pickleball – Boys), SKIT (Carrom), University of Maharaja College (Chess), Vivekananda Global University (Cyber Games – BGMI; Table Tennis – Boys Singles and Boys Doubles), MNIT (Football – Boys), Global Institute of Technology (Kho-Kho – Boys), Kanoria College (Kho-Kho – Girls), Dr. B. Lal Institute of Biotechnology (Pool Table), Jaipuria Institute of Management, Jaipur (Table Tennis – Girls Singles; Tug of War – Boys), Jaipuria Institute of Management, Noida (Tug of War – Girls), and Pareek College (Volleyball – Boys).

The successful conclusion of the 13th National Inter-College Sports Meet reaffirmed Jaipuria Institute of Management’s commitment to promoting sportsmanship, holistic development and a culture of excellence among students.

Greenwood High Bengaluru Students Shine at the 17th State Level Bangalore School Olympics – Athletics Championship 2026

Bangalore, Jan 13: Students from Greenwood High International School students delivered an outstanding performance at the 17th State Level Bangalore School Olympics – Athletics Championship 2026, with several athletes securing podium finishes at the state-level competition held at the Kitturu Rani Chennamma Stadium, Bengaluru. The students competed against participants from nearly 40 schools across Bengaluru.

The championship, organised by the Youngsters Sports Promoters Trust, featured participation from nearly 40 schools across Bengaluru. Greenwood High students competed across Under-8 to Under-16 age categories in track and field events including javelin throw, hurdles, shot put, and relay races. Greenwood High athletes competed across multiple events over the two-day programme.

Among the medal winners, Aariya Maan (Grade 6) won the Gold Medal in the Under-14 Javelin Throw, demonstrating exceptional technique and competitive spirit. Greenwood High also earned multiple silver medals, including Ansh Sandeep (Grade 4) in the 60m Hurdles, and the Under-12 (4×100m) Relay Team comprising Rohini Sindhu Prasad (Grade 5), Hanvitha Koneru (Grade 6), Ilaria Anna Melvin (Grade 6), and Aayushi Karnath (Grade 6), who delivered a strong team performance on the track. Several other Greenwood High students also won medals across different age categories and events.

Speaking on the occasion, Mrs. Niru Agarwal, Managing Trustee, Greenwood High International School said

“We are immensely proud of our students for their achievements at the Bangalore School Olympics. Their success reflects their dedication and discipline, as well as the consistent guidance provided by our coaches and faculty. Greenwood High continues to prioritise sports as a key pillar of student development.”

The performance at the Bangalore School Olympics – Athletics Championship 2026 stands as a testament to Greenwood High International School’s continued focus on excellence across academics, sports, and co-curricular education, preparing students to compete confidently at state and national platforms.

Goa Tourism Confirmed as Presenting Sponsor for Inaugural World Legends Pro T20 League

Goa, Jan 13: The World Legends Pro T20 League (WLPTL) has announced Goa Tourism as the Presenting Sponsor for its highly anticipated inaugural season, scheduled to begin on January 26 at the 1919 Cricket Stadium, Verna, Goa.

The debut edition of WLPTL promises an international sporting spectacle, featuring 90 cricketers across six teams, with a stellar lineup of global and Indian cricketing legends. International stars such as Shane Watson, Dale Steyn, Jacques Kallis, Chris Gayle, and Faf du Plessis, along with Indian greats including Shikhar Dhawan, Dinesh Karthik, Harbhajan Singh, among others, have been confirmed for the opening season. The tournament will offer fans in Goa a rare opportunity to witness some of the greatest T20 players in history live in action.

For more than four decades, Goa Tourism has played a pivotal role in shaping the state’s tourism landscape and positioning Goa as one of India’s most preferred travel destinations. The arrival of the World Legends Pro T20 League adds a new dimension to Goa’s appeal, combining elite international cricket with the state’s renowned beaches, heritage, cuisine, and vibrant festivals. The league is set to attract both domestic and international visitors, firmly placing Goa on the global cricket calendar.

Commenting on the association, Rohan Khaunte, Minister for Tourism, IT, E&C, and Printing and Stationery, said:

“Goa is a natural destination for global sporting events, and hosting the World Legends Pro T20 League aligns seamlessly with our vision for tourism and events. By bringing together cricketing legends and fans from around the world, the league will act as a catalyst for tourism, engage local communities and youth, and create meaningful opportunities for local businesses and the hospitality ecosystem, while positioning Goa as a hub for world-class sports entertainment.”

Speaking on the partnership, Mahesh Bhupathi, CEO, SGSE, said:

“We are delighted to welcome Goa Tourism as the Presenting Sponsor for the inaugural season of the World Legends Pro T20 League. Goa offers the perfect blend of vibrant culture and world-class hospitality, making it an ideal destination for a premium international property like WLPTL. This partnership strengthens our vision of delivering a festival-style, high-quality experience for local fans and travelling supporters, while reinforcing Goa’s position as a premier destination for international sporting events.”

Designed as a single-destination, festival-style tournament, the World Legends Pro T20 League aims to deliver a distinctive cricketing experience for fans across the globe. As the countdown to January 26 begins, spectators can look forward to legendary names returning to the field and a celebration of cricket set against the backdrop of one of India’s most iconic destinations.

Hansraj College Clinches Mahatma Hansraj Memorial T20 Title with Dominant Victory

NEW DELHI – Hansraj College delivered a clinical performance today to lift the Mahatma Hansraj Memorial T20 Cricket Tournament trophy, defeating Miranda House by a massive 127 runs in a one-sided final.

​Tarun’s Century Powers Hansraj to 225

​Electing to bat first, Hansraj College set the stage on fire by posting a daunting total of 225 runs. The highlight of the innings was a sensational century by Tarun, who dismantled the opposition bowling attack. He smashed 130 runs off just 57 deliveries, a knock decorated with 19 boundaries and 6 towering sixes.

​Supporting the onslaught, Mohit Tyagi contributed a solid 41 runs, while Captain Satish Pathak added a crucial 20 runs to ensure the team reached a formidable score.
​

Miranda House Collapses Under Pressure

​Faced with a mountain to climb, the Miranda House batting lineup crumbled early. They failed to find any momentum and were eventually bowled out for 98 runs in 19 overs. Captain Sonu Giri was the top scorer for the side, though he managed only 13 runs as wickets fell at regular intervals.

​Award Ceremony

​The match concluded with a grand presentation ceremony. The Chief Guest, Professor Vijay Lakshmi, Principal of Miranda House, lauded the spirit of the game and presented the championship trophy to the winning captain, Satish Pathak.

Sajjan Jain Support Trust & Arkade Developers Host Wheelchair Basketball Showcase for International Day of Persons with Disabilities

Mumbai, Dec 15:-In a powerful celebration of resilience, inclusion, and the transformative power of sport, Sajjan Jain Support Trust, an Arkade Developers initiative, in association with Project Mumbai, organized a dynamic Wheelchair Basketball Showcase Game to mark the International Day of Persons with Disabilities.

Held with the aim of promoting accessibility, inclusivity, and equal participation in sports, the event brought together athletes, supporters, and community leaders to highlight the talent and determination of persons with disabilities. The showcase offered spectators an inspiring experience while reinforcing the belief that sports can serve as a universal platform for empowerment and social change.

Mr. Arpit Jain, Director of Arkade Developers, expressed his pride in supporting the initiative, stating: “At Arkade Developers, we believe that true progress is defined not just by the spaces we build, but by the communities we uplift. This Wheelchair Basketball Showcase reflects our commitment to fostering an inclusive society where everyone has the opportunity to participate, excel, and be celebrated. We are honoured to stand alongside Sajjan Jain Support Trust and Project Mumbai in promoting dignity, confidence, and equal opportunities for all.”

The Wheelchair Basketball Showcase not only celebrated athletic skill but also created awareness about adaptive sports and the importance of accessible infrastructure. Spectators witnessed firsthand the strength, teamwork, and passion of the athletes, underscoring the importance of providing platforms that allow everyone regardless of ability to participate in sports.

“Wheelchair basketball is not just a sport we support it is a statement of what Mumbai stands for. These athletes remind us every day that ability is never defined by circumstance. At Project Mumbai, our role is to ensure that every citizen, irrespective of mobility or background, gets the opportunity to participate, to shine, and to inspire. This is the Mumbai we believe in, and this is the Mumbai we are committed to building”, said Mr. Shishir Joshi, CEO and Founder, Project Mumbai. 

The Project Mumbai Wheelchair Basketball Team, supported by Project Mumbai, stands as a testament to inclusive community building. The initiative provides athletes with  training, visibility and platforms to showcase their talent while sensitising citizens on accessibility and inclusion. Project Mumbai continues to work across sectors, from volunteering opportunities like mental health, environment and civic engagement, it welcomes volunteers who wish to contribute to its mission. Every Mumbaikar is invited to join hands and be part of the change. This collaborative initiative reaffirms the shared vision of Sajjan Jain Support Trust, Arkade Developers, and Project Mumbai: to foster an inclusive society that recognises and celebrates the abilities of all individuals.

KRAFTON India Opens Registrations for BGIS 2026

KRAFTON India Opens Registrations for 5^th Edition of ‘India’s Biggest Open-to-All Esports Tournament – BATTLEGROUNDS MOBILE INDIA SERIES (BGIS) 2026’

Bengaluru, Dec 12: KRAFTON India today announced the opening of registrations for the 5^th edition of BATTLEGROUNDS MOBILE INDIA SERIES (BGIS) 2026, the country’s biggest and most inclusive Open-to-All esports tournament. The announcement marks the kickoff of India’s first major LAN esports cycle of the year and builds on the momentum of KRAFTON’s 2026 Esports Roadmap revealed at BMIC.

Recognised as one of India’s most watched and most participated esports properties, BGIS 2026 returns with a larger-than-ever format, running from January to March 2026. Thousands of squads from across India will battle through multiple online and LAN stages for national recognition and a share of the INR 2 Crore prize pool.

Built for Everyone: India’s Largest Open Entry Esports Platform

Since launch, BGIS has been defined by one principle: every player deserves a shot. The tournament has consistently championed grassroots access, enabling any individual or team from across the length and breadth of the country – to register, compete, qualify, and rise. Over the years, BGIS has produced unforgettable undergod stories, massive participation numbers, and some of India’s most exciting competitive breakthroughs.

The 2026 edition strengthens this vision even further. Whether someone is entering their first tournament, competing with their neighbourhood squad, or aspiring to become India’s next esports star, BGIS 2026 is your stage. Registrations open December 15, 2025, on the Krafton India Esports Website, with qualifiers starting early January.

Key Dates

• Registrations Open: 15th December 2025
• Registrations Close: 4th January 2026
• Registration Data Verification: 5th – 7th January 2026
• In‑Game Qualifiers: 8th – 14th January 2026

Karan Pathak, Associate Director- Esports, KRAFTON India said,

“In 2026, our goal is to elevate Indian esports by creating a system that is more inclusive, more aspirational, and more deeply connected to the millions of players who have supported BGMI over the years. BGIS has always stood for opportunity, a place where undergodss become champions, and this year, we are expanding that promise with a wider stage, stronger structures, and more pathways for growth. Our long-term commitment is to empower every aspiring player across India, strengthen the competitive ecosystem at every level, and deliver world‑class experiences that honour the passion and support of our incredible community.”

As part of KRAFTON India’s ongoing commitment to nurturing the country’s esports landscape – through sustained investment, structured competition, and global pathways BGIS 2026 stands as a pivotal milestone in discovering and supporting homegrown talent.

With over 240 million registered users, BATTLEGROUNDS MOBILE INDIA (BGMI) remains India’s leading mobile gaming title, and BGIS 2026 further reinforces its unmatched impact on the nation’s esports culture.

Aditya Mehta Foundation Partners with Flutter Entertainment India to Boost Para-Sports Support

Hyderabad, Dec 8: Flutter Entertainment India LLP , the Hyderabad-based center of excellence for the world’s leading sports entertainment operator, Flutter, and Aditya Mehta Foundation (AMF) today announced their partnership to strengthen India’s para-sports ecosystem and further their commitment to empowering communities through sport.

Flutter Entertainment India has committed INR 60 Lakh to support two major programs at AMF – Training, Rehabilitation Centre/Adaptive Gym Upgradation, Nutrition & Coaching and Customized Adaptive Devices & Equipment. Together, these initiatives will directly impact up to 15 para-athletes as they prepare for elite competitions including the Asian Youth Para Games and Paralympic games 2028. The support strengthens AMF’s vision of enabling athletes to train with dignity, confidence, and world-class resources, echoing AMF’s belief that the right infrastructure can turn potential into podium finishes.

Aditya Mehta, International Para – Cyclist and Founder, Aditya Mehta Foundation, commented on the partnership and said,

“We are delighted to partner with Flutter, whose support will significantly strengthen India’s para-sports ecosystem. Para-athletes require specialized training, rehabilitation and adaptive equipment, and this investment will directly help them access these essential resources. The collaboration will enable athletes to compete in key national and international tournaments, including World Championships and World Cups, which are crucial for earning qualification points. This support aligns with our shared vision of securing multiple slots for the 2028 Paralympics and elevating talented para-athletes to the highest levels of global competition.”

Founded in 2013, AMF is Asia’s first organization dedicated exclusively to para-sports rehabilitation and high-performance training. Its efforts have helped develop grassroots talent into world-class competitors, contributing to more than 450 international medals for India. By partnering with AMF, Flutter Entertainment India aims to accelerate this momentum and help para-athletes reach their full potential with the right infrastructure and support.

Ashish Sinha, Managing Director, Flutter Entertainment India, said,

 “Para-athletes represent resilience, ambition, and the belief that sport should be accessible to everyone. Our partnership with the Aditya Mehta Foundation reflects Flutter’s long-term commitment to creating high-quality training ecosystems that enable athletes to perform at their best. By strengthening access to adaptive equipment, sports science, and professional coaching, we aim to support para-athletes in achieving their full potential and competing with confidence on the global stage.”

The collaboration will focus on supporting two major programs:

Program 1: Training, Rehabilitation Centre/Adaptive Gym Upgradation, Nutrition & Coaching and National & International Competitions
Flutter’s support will enable AMF to enhance its training ecosystem with upgraded adaptive facilities, sports science interventions, physiotherapy support, and structured nutrition plans. This investment aligns with Flutter’s larger commitment to building inclusive, safe, and high-quality sporting environments that enable athletes to thrive.

Program 2: Customized Adaptive Devices & Equipment

Recognizing that world-class performance requires world-class tools, Flutter will fund customized adaptive devices and sport-specific equipment for para-athletes. This ensures they have the precision, safety, and accessibility needed to train and compete at elite levels.