In a historic first encounter between the two nations, Italy emerged victorious with a 34-19 win over Chile in a rugby match held in Genoa on Saturday. Despite the triumph, the Azzurri’s performance was far from flawless, as they allowed Chile to score three tries during the game. Italy started strong, with Ange Capuozzo scoring the opening try, followed by Tommaso Di Bartolomeo contributing one in each half and Monty Ioane adding two more. Giacomo Da Re successfully converted three tries and added a penalty. However, Chile fought back with tries from Salvador Lues and Nicolas Saab, narrowing the gap to just one point at one stage. Clemente Saavedra scored another try for Chile in the final moments. On a positive note, Italy saw debuts from teenagers Enoch Opoku-Gyamfi and Edoardo Todaro, who came on as late replacements. This match marked Italy’s second game in their autumn internationals, following a 26-19 upset against Australia and a 32-14 loss to South Africa. Coach Gonzalo Quesada made 10 changes to the starting lineup from the previous week’s defeat.
分类： sports
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France dazzles with 7 tries and sends Wallabies home from winless tour of Europe
In a spectacular display of offensive prowess, France delivered their finest attacking performance of the year, securing a historic 48-33 victory over Australia at the Stade de France on Saturday. The match, marked by breathtaking tries and relentless energy, saw France achieve their highest-ever score against the Wallabies, while also clinching three consecutive wins over Australia for the first time in nearly five decades. Despite Australia’s spirited efforts, including five tries of their own, they were unable to overcome France’s dominance, culminating in their first winless European tour since 1958 and a record 10th loss in a single year. France’s Nicolas Depoortere shone with his second consecutive brace, while 20-year-old Kalvin Gourgues made a memorable debut, setting up Louis Bielle-Biarrey for a crucial try. Australia’s early brilliance, including a try by Matt Faessler, was overshadowed by France’s relentless attack, which featured seven tries, including a sensational solo effort by Bielle-Biarrey. Despite a valiant fightback, Australia’s exhaustion from previous defeats to England, Italy, and Ireland was evident, as France sealed their victory with decisive plays in the final minutes.
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Marx first hooker to win world player award since 2001
In a historic moment for rugby, South Africa’s Malcolm Marx has been crowned the men’s 15s Player of the Year at the 2025 World Rugby Awards. The 31-year-old hooker, a pivotal figure in the Springboks’ success this year, becomes the first player in his position to win the prestigious award since Ireland’s Keith Wood in 2001. Marx has been instrumental in South Africa’s dominant performance, starting in 11 of the team’s 13 Tests and scoring five tries. His contributions were crucial as the Springboks defended their Rugby Championship title and suffered only two losses throughout the year. Competing against fellow nominees Pieter-Steph du Toit, Ox Nche, and France’s Louis Bielle-Biarrey, Marx’s recognition underscores his exceptional skill and leadership. Meanwhile, New Zealand’s rising star Fabian Holland, aged 23, was named the men’s 15s Breakthrough Player of the Year. Holland, who debuted in July, has quickly made his mark with 12 appearances, including a standout performance in New Zealand’s 52-26 victory over Wales. Other notable winners include Chile’s Santiago Pedrero, who claimed the Try of the Year for his spectacular score against Samoa, and Canada’s Sophie de Goede, who was named Women’s Player of the Year in September. England’s World Cup-winning coach John Mitchell also received accolades as Coach of the Year, capping off a year of remarkable achievements in rugby.
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‘Fear, focus, fun’: How I drove through RAK dunes at KT Desert Drive 2025
The KT Desert Drive 2025, now in its seventh edition, has cemented its reputation as a premier off-roading event in the UAE, attracting enthusiasts from diverse backgrounds. Flagged off by Charles Yardley, CEO of Khaleej Times, the convoy embarked on an exhilarating journey through the dunes of Ras Al Khaimah, blending adrenaline, skill, and camaraderie. Led by seasoned marshal Nick, participants navigated a meticulously designed route, starting with gentle slopes and progressing to more challenging terrains. The experience was a mix of fear, focus, and fun, as drivers tackled soft sand, steep climbs, and descents. The event catered to all skill levels, with beginners receiving expert guidance and seasoned off-roaders pushing their limits. A real-time navigation app ensured safety and coordination, allowing marshals to monitor the convoy and provide immediate assistance if needed. Families, friends, and first-timers shared the thrill, making the desert a unifying space for adventure. The KT Desert Drive continues to grow as a hallmark community event, celebrating the spirit of off-roading and the beauty of the UAE’s desert landscape.
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Pakistan routs Sri Lanka by 7 wickets in tri-series game
In a commanding display of cricketing prowess, Pakistan secured a resounding seven-wicket victory over Sri Lanka in the T20 tri-series on Saturday, thanks to Sahibzada Farhan’s career-best unbeaten 80 off 45 balls. The match, held in Rawalpindi, saw Pakistan chase down Sri Lanka’s modest total of 128-7 with ease, reaching 131-3 in just 15.3 overs. Farhan’s explosive innings, which included five sixes and six boundaries, was the cornerstone of Pakistan’s dominant performance. Sri Lanka, already reeling from a 67-run loss to Zimbabwe in their opening game, continued to struggle with their batting, managing only 128 runs despite captain Dasun Shanaka’s decision to bat first after winning the toss. Pakistan’s bowlers, led by left-arm spinner Mohammad Nawaz (3-16) and leg-spinner Abrar Ahmed (1-28), kept the Sri Lankan batters in check, with Nawaz delivering crucial breakthroughs in the middle overs. Farhan’s aggressive approach from the outset set the tone for Pakistan’s chase, as he forged a 69-run partnership with Babar Azam (16) and sealed the victory with a straight six off Malinga. Sri Lanka’s captain Shanaka expressed disappointment with his team’s performance, acknowledging the need for improvement in their batting. Pakistan, having won both their league games, will next face Zimbabwe on Sunday.
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Why this is England’s worst defeat in Australia in years
In a stunning display of cricketing prowess, Australia handed England a crushing defeat in the first Ashes Test at Perth Stadium, marking England’s worst Test loss in Australia in years. The match, which concluded in just two days, was the shortest Ashes Test since 1921, leaving English supporters reeling. Travis Head’s exceptional innings dismantled England’s attack, turning the tide in Australia’s favor. Despite England’s initial advantage, they collapsed spectacularly, losing by eight wickets. This defeat not only highlights England’s recurring struggles in Australia but also underscores Australia’s dominance in the Ashes series. The hosts now head to Brisbane for the second Test, where their formidable record in day-night matches poses a significant challenge for England. As England contemplates their next steps, questions linger about their ability to recover and compete in the remaining matches.
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Captain Cummins could return for second Ashes Test
Australian cricket captain Pat Cummins has expressed optimism about his potential return for the second Ashes Test against England, scheduled to begin on December 4 at Brisbane’s Gabba. The 32-year-old fast bowler missed the opening Test in Perth due to a back injury but has been making steady progress in his recovery. Despite his absence, Australia dominated the first Test, dismissing England for 172 and 164 in their two innings, with Mitchell Starc claiming 10 wickets to secure an emphatic eight-wicket victory within two days. Cummins, who was temporarily replaced by Steve Smith as captain and Scott Boland as a fast bowler, hinted at reclaiming both roles for the upcoming day-night Test. ‘It’s feeling good,’ Cummins stated during an interview on Fox Sports TV. ‘I had a couple of good sessions in Perth this week, and I’m on track. I’m half a chance for the next game.’ However, concerns remain over the fitness of top-order batsman Usman Khawaja, who injured his back during the first Test and was unable to open the innings. ‘Unfortunately, Uzzy is not moving too well,’ Cummins added. ‘His back flared up again in the slips, so he was unable to open.’ As Australia prepares for the second Test, Cummins’ potential return could bolster their already formidable lineup.
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HK powers the nation’s equestrian development
Hong Kong has emerged as a pivotal force in advancing China’s equestrian sector, showcasing its expertise and innovative contributions during the 15th National Games held in Shenzhen, Guangdong province. The Hong Kong Jockey Club (HKJC) played a central role, establishing the event’s first on-site equine hospital, equipped with state-of-the-art facilities including an operating theater and blood testing laboratory. This groundbreaking initiative, a collaboration between the HKJC and the games’ organizing committee, ensured top-tier veterinary care for horses and riders competing from November 10 to 19.
The HKJC’s involvement extended beyond medical support. The club provided over HK$500 million in funding and dispatched its largest-ever squad of 11 horse-and-rider pairs across all categories. Leveraging its extensive experience in equestrian sports, the HKJC also offered comprehensive support in areas such as horse welfare, venue design, anti-doping protocols, and stable management. This marked Hong Kong’s debut as a co-host of the National Games, alongside Guangdong and Macao, highlighting the city’s commitment to the event’s success.
Cross-border collaboration posed unique challenges, particularly in enabling Hong Kong veterinarians to work on the mainland. An innovative ad hoc mechanism was introduced, allowing vets to practice and prescribe medications at the equestrian center with special approvals. These efforts underscore Hong Kong’s role as a bridge between international best practices and mainland resources.
The HKJC’s contributions to equestrian development are not limited to the National Games. The club has been instrumental in major events such as the 2008 Beijing Olympics and the 2010 Guangzhou Asian Games, where it helped establish the mainland’s first internationally recognized equine disease-free zone. Looking ahead, the HKJC announced plans to host the inaugural regular race meeting at the Conghua Racecourse in 2026, aligning with China’s national equine industry plan. This milestone is expected to elevate the Greater Bay Area as a hub for world-class sporting events and further integrate Hong Kong’s international expertise with mainland resources.
Ronald Chan Ngok-pang, head of the HKJC’s mainland affairs, emphasized the club’s unique strengths in fostering national equestrian development. ‘Marrying Hong Kong’s international connectivity with the mainland’s resources and experience, we are opening doors to boundless opportunities,’ he said. With its unwavering commitment and pioneering initiatives, Hong Kong continues to power China’s equestrian ambitions on the global stage.
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Wushu needs more events in GBA, coaches in Macao say
As wushu gains global recognition, marked by its inclusion in the 2026 Summer Youth Olympic Games and praise from International Olympic Committee officials during the 15th National Games, Macao’s wushu leaders are pushing for stronger, standardized collaboration within the Guangdong-Hong Kong-Macao Greater Bay Area (GBA). They believe shared training, unified coaching methods, and increased regional competitions are essential to elevate the sport and cultivate future champions. The recent three-day wushu set routine event at the 15th National Games, co-hosted by Hong Kong, Macao, and Guangdong, attracted notable figures like IOC Honorary President Thomas Bach and President Kirsty Coventry, who lauded China’s sports development and expressed enthusiasm for wushu’s Olympic debut. Macao’s gold medalist Li Yi, who triumphed in the women’s Changquan event at the 19th Asian Games, emphasized the importance of perseverance and character development in wushu. Now a coach, Li advocates for more cross-regional competitions and immersive experiences that integrate wushu with Macao’s tourism identity. Iao Chon-in, Macao’s wushu team head coach, highlights the need for long-term career planning, medical support, and dual-track pathways to balance athletics and academics. Both coaches stress the importance of fostering resilience and joy in young athletes to sustain Macao’s wushu legacy.
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No All Blacks without Donegal man who died at Passchendaele
In a poignant ceremony held at Dave Gallaher Park in Ramelton, County Donegal, the legacy of All Blacks legend Dave Gallaher was celebrated with a symbolic exchange of soil, marking his ‘homecoming.’ Gallaher, who left Ramelton at the age of five, became a pivotal figure in New Zealand rugby, captaining the historic 1905 All Blacks team, known as the Originals. This team achieved an extraordinary record, winning 34 of 35 matches during their tour of Great Britain, Ireland, France, and the USA, with their only loss to Wales. Gallaher’s life was tragically cut short during World War I at the Battle of Passchendaele in 1917. The ceremony, attended by former All Blacks captain Sean Fitzpatrick, featured the exchange of sacred soil from New Zealand’s Eden Park and Irish soil from Ramelton, symbolizing the enduring connection between Gallaher’s birthplace and his adopted homeland. Fitzpatrick described Gallaher as the ‘original All Black,’ emphasizing the humility and legacy he instilled in the team. The event also included musical performances by a traditional Maori singing group, Te Waka Aumihi, and the recitation of a poem titled ‘Common Ground.’ Kevin Shields, one of the event organizers, highlighted Gallaher’s dual legacy as both a rugby icon and a war hero, noting that the ceremony honored his Irish roots and celebrated his global impact. Malcolm Stewart, a relative of Gallaher, expressed pride in their family’s connection to the legend, describing the soil exchange as a monumental day for the community. The event underscored the profound influence Gallaher had on New Zealand rugby and the enduring respect for his contributions to the sport and the nation.