Category Archives: sports

PVL 2025: Bengaluru Torpedoes register fourth straight win of the season

14th October, 2025: Bengaluru Torpedoes defeated Chennai Blitz 17-15, 14-16, 17-15, 16-14 in the RR Kabel Prime Volleyball League powered by Scapia at the Gachibowli Indoor Stadium, Hyderabad on Monday, to continue their winning run in the tournament. Joel Benjamin was named the Player of the Match.

Chennai started the game at a lightning-fast pace with captain Jerome Vinith and Luiz Felipe Perotto leading the charge. Tarun Gowda synced well with setter Sameer to provide more depth to the Blitz’s attacks.

Bengaluru relied on Joel Benjamin and Sethu to counter-attack. Mujeeb, Jishnu, and Nitin Minhas helped the Torpedoes in dominating the middle zone.

Once the Torpedoes’ defence began working in tandem, Chennai started finding it difficult to stitch their attacks. Libero Midhunkumar defended well for the Torpedoes, while skipper Mathew West ensured to find the right target for his passes.

Jerome and Perotto continued Chennai’s fightback. A couple of unforced errors from the Torpedoes opened up the door for the Blitz to make a comeback in the game. Blocker Aditya Rana’s presence on court put belief back in Chennai’s court.

Penrose made it count at a crucial juncture to tilt the game back in the Torpedoes’ corner. Two smart reviews from Coach David Lee proved fruitful, ensuring Bengaluru stayed in the lead. Penrose grew in confidence as the night progressed and brought the goods when Bengaluru needed the most, and the Torpedoes won the game 3-1.

Bisleri partners with Indian Supercross Racing League as Official Hydration Partner

Guwahati – 9th October 2025 –The Indian Supercross Racing League (ISRL) proudly announces its partnership with Bisleri, India’s leading packaged drinking water brand, as the Official Hydration Partner. This collaboration brings together the thrill of motorsport and the trusted legacy of Bisleri, ensuring athletes, teams, and fans stay refreshed and energized throughout the season.

Speaking on the partnership, Eeshan Lokhande, Co-Founder of ISRL, said: “Hydration plays a crucial role in a sport as physically demanding as Supercross and this season we are joined by athletes who are some of the best across the sporting world. This partnership with Bisleri reinforces our commitment to catering to world-class riders, keeping athletes, fans, and the entire team working relentlessly for ISRL hydrated, up to speed, and totally energized throughout. We are delighted to welcome Bisleri and look for this partnership to grow in the coming years as well.”

Adding to this, Tushar Malhotra, Director – Sales & Marketing, Bisleri International. “Indian Supercross Racing League is a platform that celebrates speed, endurance, and passion. At Bisleri, hydration is at the heart of performance, and through this strategic partnership, we aim to fuel the energy of racers and fans alike. This association reflects our commitment to supporting emerging sports and delivering hydration where it’s needed most, while also helping us strengthen our connect with Gen Z consumers.”

With this collaboration, Bisleri reinforces its commitment to supporting sports and high-energy events, while ISRL continues to elevate the Supercross experience in India with world-class standards and fan engagement.

Thomas Cook India & SOTC Travel Drive Corporate Networking through Golf

Mumbai, October 8th, 2025: India is rapidly emerging as one of the world’s fastest-growing markets for business travel spending, ranked fourth globally and projected to reach USD 1.57 trillion by end-2025, according to the Global Business Travel Association (GBTA). Parallelly, golf is gaining prominence as a strategic pillar within the global tourism agenda, with destinations like Japan, South Korea, Dubai, Malaysia, Thailand, Indonesia and Vietnam leveraging the sport to enhance destination appeal, attract premium travellers and drive high-value tourism growth.

Tapping into this powerful convergence of business travel and golf, Thomas Cook (India) Limited, India’s leading omnichannel travel services company, and its group company, SOTC Travel, proudly participated as team owners at the 3rd edition of the prestigious DLF Corporate Golf League 2025 at the DLF Golf & Country Club, Gurugram. As an extension of this ownership, the companies hosted an exclusive evening An Evening Under the Stars bringing together senior corporate leaders and marquee clients across industries, creating a powerful platform for networking, insight-sharing and future-focused collaboration that extend beyond boardrooms.

Guests were treated to curated experiences featuring gourmet cuisine, handcrafted cocktails and engaging dialogue – all set against the timeless backdrop of the iconic DLF Golf & Country Club fairway, blending sport and strategic conversations in a truly memorable evening.

Mr. Indiver Rastogi, President & Group Head – Global Business Travel, Thomas Cook (India) & SOTC Travel, said: “India’s corporate travel sector is growing at an exceptional pace, driven by the increasing globalization of Indian enterprises and the rising demand for meaningful engagement platforms. We are proud to be industry leaders in this dynamic space, consistently delivering innovative, future-ready solutions for our clients. Our participation as team owners in the DLF Corporate Golf League reflects our vision to move beyond traditional business interactions and create experiences that foster strategic dialogue, strengthen relationships, and inspire collaboration in unique and impactful ways. With this, we reaffirm our commitment to shaping the future of corporate travel in India by bringing together leaders in settings that spark ideas, partnerships and long-term growth.”

Mr. Pawan Agarwal – CFO, Swatch Group India, said “Thank you to the Thomas Cook Group for hosting An Evening Under the Stars. It was a wonderful evening marked by warm hospitality, meaningful networking, and seamless organization. We were truly delighted to be part of such a thoughtfully curated event.”

Mr. Rajesh Mendiratta – ZS Associates said, “It was a privilege to be part of An Evening Under the Stars. The evening brought together inspiring conversations, valuable learnings, and wonderful connections. 

My heartfelt thanks to the team for their gracious invitation and for hosting such a memorable gathering. Congratulations to the team on becoming the proud sponsor of the Golf Team—wishing you continued success and many more milestones ahead.”

Battle for Glory Begins! Final Four Set for Cue Sports Premier League 2.0

Grand Finale on October 8 at Bowring Institute

Bengaluru, 7th October 2025: The Cue Sports Premier League (CSPL) 2.0 has delivered another thrilling season of high-octane snooker action, bringing together an exceptional mix of International, National, State, and Club players in a unique competitive format.

The league, which commenced on October 2, featured eight dynamic teams vying for the coveted title. After an intense league stage filled with nail-biting finishes and remarkable performances, Hurricane Hawks, Bazooka Blizzards, Summer Tuskers, and Thunderstorm Titans have stormed into the knockout stage.

The Qualifier 1 match will see Hurricane Hawks face Bazooka Blizzards, while Summer Tuskers take on Thunderstorm Titans in the Eliminator – both scheduled for October 7.

While Lightning Legion, Cyclone Crusaders, Tornado Tigers, and Whirlwind Warriors missed out on qualification, they showcased tremendous grit and sportsmanship, contributing to a highly competitive and entertaining league stage.

Powering the passion behind the green baize, the Embassy Group once again leads as Title Sponsor, with Snooker Alley joining the fray as Co-Sponsor. Together, they fuel the growth of Cue Sports Premier League. Fans can catch every thrilling frame live on ClubLiv app, the Official Streaming Partner of CSPL 2.0.

CSPL 2.0 has witnessed some spectacular snooker from world-class players such as Stephen Lee, Harvey Chandler, Kritsanut, Habib Sabah, Aditya Mehta, Paras Gupta, Kamal Chawla, Pankaj Advani, Hussain Khan, and Pushpinder Singh, among many others. Their performances have raised the standard of the tournament and provided fans with an unforgettable experience.

The excitement now builds toward the Grand Finale on October 8, to be held at the state-of-the-art Snooker Arena in the South Pavilion at Bowring Institute, followed by the Awards Ceremony at the Lotus Lawn.

CSPL continues to set new benchmarks in the cue sports landscape by providing a platform where talent meets opportunity — uniting players from diverse backgrounds and skill levels to learn, compete, and inspire one another.

PVL 2025: Bengaluru Torpedoes come from behind to beat Goa Guardians in five-set thriller

MIT-WPU Student Ms Kruti Dave Triumphs at the 1st Asian International Taekwondo Competition

Mumbai/Pune, India, September 26, 2025 – MIT-World Peace University (MIT-WPU) proudly celebrates the outstanding achievement of Ms Kruti Dave, a student of FY MBA (HR), who showcased exemplary talent at the 1st Asian International Taekwondo Competition held in Hyderabad. 

Kruti brought immense pride to the university by securing two Gold, one Silver, and one Bronze medal across multiple categories, including fights, poomsae (structured martial arts performance), and speed events. One of her most remarkable victories came in a hard-fought final where she clinched the Gold by a single point after seven intense matches.

With a strong foundation of over eight years in martial arts, Kruti began her journey in Karate before transitioning to Taekwondo, where she has consistently excelled. Her sports journey also includes achievements at district and national levels, alongside earlier stints in hockey and cricket. Her passion, however, found its true expression in martial arts, which she now pursues with full dedication.

Balancing her MBA studies with a demanding training schedule, Kruti practices rigorously four days a week, preparing herself for greater milestones. Grateful for the guidance of her coach, and the continuous encouragement from MIT-WPU’s Sports Department, Kruti has set her sights on representing India at the Olympics.

India’s First CXO Pickleball League in Mumbai

Mumbai, September 25, 2025: Gravate Sports (grv8), co-founded by RJ Anmol and Puneet Goyal, has announced the launch of India’s first-ever CXO Pickleball League, set to take place on September 27, 2025, at the exclusive sea-facing courts of Taj Lands End, Mumbai. The league aims to bring together top executives and corporate leaders for a unique fusion of executive wellness, networking, and competitive sport.

Pickleball, one of the fastest-growing sports globally, is quickly gaining traction in India. The market is expected to expand from INR 500 crore in 2027 to INR1,500 crore by 2031. This sport is rapidly embraced in corporate circles for being easy to learn, low-impact, and a powerful platform for fitness and networking. For CXOs juggling demanding schedules, pickleball offers the ideal blend of recreation and relationship-building—often compared to golf for business networking but far more accessible and inclusive.

The CXO Pickleball League invites corporates across sectors—including finance, fintech, technology, media, lifestyle, and consumer brands—to nominate teams of up to three members, including at least one senior leader. Participants have been trained by AIPA-certified coaches through flexible clinics ahead of a spirited tournament at Taj Lands End.

Adding star power to the launch, Olympic medalist Saina Nehwal will headline the event with a special exhibition match against renowned business leader Dr. Niranjan Hiranandani.

“It’s wonderful to see sports becoming an integral part of corporate life. Pickleball is an excellent way for people to stay active and connected. I’m excited to be part of this unique initiative and encourage more professionals to embrace a healthier, sport-driven lifestyle,” said Saina Nehwal.

RJ Anmol, Co-Founder of Gravate Sports, shared, “Gravate Sports is dedicated to creating premium sporting experiences that bring leaders together beyond boardrooms. Pickleball fits perfectly with India’s CXO community—promoting wellness, camaraderie, and strategic networking. Having Saina Nehwal join us for the launch sets the tone for a thriving corporate sports culture in India.”

The event will conclude with a curated sundowner and gourmet dining experience, designed to foster meaningful networking among participating CXOs and industry peers.

With the launch of the CXO Pickleball League, Gravate Sports aims to pioneer a new era of corporate sporting leagues in India—building a vibrant ecosystem where sport fuels professional success and personal growth.

The CXO Pickleball League debuts on September 27, 2025, at 10 a.m. at Taj Lands End, Mumbai.

SSEN Bids For FIFA World Cup 2026 & 2030 Broadcasting Rights

Kolkata, 22^nd September, 2025: In a move that underscores both ambition and vision, Shrachi Sports Entertainment Network (SSEN), a dedicated sports OTT platform, has officially placed its bid for the broadcasting rights of the FIFA World Cup 2026 and 2030. Valued at approximated USD 2 Million (INR 18-20 crores), the bid reflects SSEN’s ambition to redefine how global football reaches audiences across India and the subcontinents.

If awarded, SSEN intends to stream both the tournaments entirely on a free to view basis. This pioneering model would ensure that millions of fans across India, Bangladesh, Sri Lanka, Bhutan, Nepal and the Maldives can watch the world’s greatest sporting event without subscription fees or barriers to entry.

“The bid is more than a business move – it is a commitment to inclusivity and reshaping the future of football consumption in the region. By offering the FIFA World Cup streaming free to fans, we are democratising access to the game and laying the foundation for a long-term legacy that inspires generations” said Mr Tamal Ghosal, Chairman, Shrachi Sports.

The bold proposal builds on SSEN’s expanding portfolio of premier sports properties. The network already streams marquee tournaments including the Calcutta Football League and the I-League. In addition, SSEN is the first to stream the Women’s Bundesliga and the German Handball Bundesliga, underscoring its credibility as a platform delivering both Indian and international sporting action to mass audiences.

By taking these decisive steps, SSEN signals its determination not only to challenge conventional sports broadcasting models but also to position India as a central hub in the global football narrative.

Global Icon Ram Charan to Champion Inaugural Archery Premier League as Brand Ambassador

Hyderabad, 19th September 2025 – Archery Association of India (AAI) today announced acclaimed actor and global icon Ram Charan as the Brand Ambassador of the first-ever Archery Premier League (APL), ahead of its inaugural edition scheduled from 2nd to 12th October 2025 at the Yamuna Sports Complex, New Delhi.

Archery Premier League is a first-of-its-kind franchise-based tournament that will bring together leading men and women recurve and compound archers from India and across the globe. The league aims to strengthen India’s Olympic movement, accelerate the growth of archery nationally, and enhance the sport’s international appeal. With six franchise teams featuring 36 top Indian archers and 12 international archers (including athletes from the world’s top 10), the APL introduces a unique and dynamic format where recurve and compound archers will compete together under lights — a format never seen before in global archery.

Ram Charan, on his association, said, “Archery is a sport that represents discipline, focus, and resilience — values I deeply resonate with. I am proud to be associated with the Archery Premier League, which not only provides a world-class platform for Indian talent but also shines a global spotlight on the sport. I look forward to supporting this pioneering initiative and inspiring the next generation of athletes.”

President of the Archery Association of India, Shri Arjun Munda, said, “The dream envisioned by us is the dream that has lived for many years in every young archer across India’s villages. With the Archery Premier League, we are confident of fulfilling these dreams, creating opportunities, and taking the sport to the next level in the country. Having Ram Charan as our Brand Ambassador further strengthens our mission, as his global influence will inspire countless young people to take an interest in archery.”

Secretary General of AAI, Shri Virendra Sachdeva, added, “Inspired by the transformative impact of leagues in other sports, the Archery Premier League brings professional standards, greater visibility, and global competitiveness to Indian archery. This is not just a league; it’s a stepping stone towards India’s Olympic dream. Ram Charan’s presence will amplify the league’s visibility and connect archery with newer audiences worldwide.”

BGCS and BGMS League Stages Conclude; Rising Stars Gear Up to Face Pros in Playoffs

New Delhi, September 9, 2025: Following 20 days of high-octane esports action, the league stages of the OnePlus Android Battlegrounds Mobile India Challenger Series (BGCS) 2025 and the OnePlus Android Battlegrounds Mobile India Masters Series (BGMS) 2025 have officially concluded. The results now set the stage for the highly anticipated Playoffs on September 9, where India’s rising esports stars will take on established pros for a coveted spot in the Semi-Finals and ultimately the Grand Finals of India’s most-watched esports event.

In the final week of BGCS 2025, where 16 teams battled for glory, Nebula Esports, qualifiers from the OnePlus Campus Dominate initiative, topped the table with 222 points. They were followed by Sinewy Esports in second with 213 points, Team Versatile in third with 201 points, and Team H4K in fourth with 163 points. All four teams have secured qualification for the BGMS 2025 Playoffs. As the official amateur feeder league into BGMS, BGCS has not only spotlighted emerging talent but also provided a competitive pathway into India’s premier esports stage.

“With the introduction of BGCS this year, our aim was to create a structured pathway for emerging gamers to transition into the professional BGMI esports ecosystem. It is particularly encouraging to see that the winning team qualified through the nationwide collegiate qualifiers by OnePlus, and it has been inspiring to witness all participating teams showcase their skills and earn their opportunity to compete at the next level. This is precisely the kind of platform NODWIN Gaming, together with our partners set out to create, to identify and nurture the next generation of esports talent,” said Akshat Rathee, Co-founder and Managing Director, NODWIN Gaming.

Meanwhile, in BGMS 2025, 24 of the nation’s top BGMI teams competed in 56 matches each. At the end of an intense league stage, Team Revenant XSpark finished on top with 557 points, closely followed by Team SouL with 551 points. Gods Reign claimed third place with 533 points, while NoNx Esports secured fourth with 529 points. These top four teams have earned direct qualification to the BGMS Grand Finals, scheduled from September 12 to 14.

The road to the finals continues as the bottom 12 teams from the BGMS League Stage advance to the Playoffs, where they will be joined by the top four BGCS squads. The top eight teams from the Playoffs will then move into the BGMS Semi-Finals from September 10 to 11, competing alongside the 5th to 12th placed teams from the BGMS League Stage. From there, the top 12 semi-finalists will join the four directly qualified teams in the BGMS Grand Finals, where 16 teams will battle it out for the crown and a major share of the INR 1.5 crore prize pool.

Season 4 of BGMS continues to be supported by OnePlus as the Title Sponsor and Official Smartphone Partner, with Android returning as Co-Title Sponsor and TVS Motor Company entering its third consecutive year. The tournament also sees the presence of Red Bull in its second year, along with the debut of Duolingo English Test as Official Learning Partner, Swiggy as Official Food Delivery Partner, and Bisleri as Official Hydration Partner.

The BGMS Season 4 Playoffs will be broadcast live on Star Sports Khel and on JioHotstar from September 9 to 11, airing during prime-time from 5:00 PM to 8:00 PM, making it the only esports tournament in India with national television presence.