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.
分类： sports
-
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.
-
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.
-
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.
-
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.
-
Remorse’s return from career-threatening injury to emotional Carnival triumph
In a tale of resilience and determination, the eight-year-old racehorse Remorse made a triumphant return to the track at the Dubai Racing Carnival, overcoming a career-threatening injury to claim victory in the Thunder Snow Handicap. The emotional win marked a significant milestone for the horse, who had suffered a devastating fall at Abu Dhabi last season, leaving his connections doubtful of his future in racing. Under the meticulous care of Bhupat Seemar’s Zabeel Stables, led by his wife Caroline, Remorse underwent months of recovery, culminating in a stunning six-and-a-half-length victory at Meydan Racecourse. Jockey Tadhg O’Shea, who has a deep connection with the horse, praised Remorse’s resilience and the dedication of the team behind his comeback. The win added another chapter to the legacy of Remorse, a horse whose name belies his indomitable spirit on the racetrack. The evening also saw Mendelsohn Bay, another star from Seemar’s stable, dominate the Listed Dubai Creek Mile, while Godolphin’s Devon Island and Ahmad bin Harmash’s Yuno showcased their potential in other races. The Carnival continues to deliver thrilling moments, but Remorse’s story of perseverance and triumph stood out as the highlight of the night.
-
Leading the 2-test series 1-0, South Africa wins the toss and bats 1st against India
In a pivotal moment for cricket enthusiasts, South Africa’s captain Temba Bavuma won the toss and chose to bat against India in the second test match held at the Barsapara Stadium in Guwahati. This venue marks its debut as the 30th test cricket ground in India and commemorates the 300th test match played on Indian soil. The Proteas, fresh from their 30-run victory in the first test at Kolkata—their first test win in India in 15 years—are aiming to secure their first test series triumph in the country since the 2000-01 season.
India, led by stand-in captain Rishabh Pant, faced an unfortunate streak in toss outcomes, losing eight of the nine tosses in tests this year. Pant stepped in for Shubman Gill, who was sidelined due to a neck spasm sustained during the first test. India introduced two changes to their lineup: batting all-rounder Nitish Reddy replaced Gill, while Sai Sudharsan was preferred over left-arm spin all-rounder Axar Patel.
South Africa also made a strategic adjustment, bringing in left-arm spin all-rounder Senuran Muthusamy for medium-pace all-rounder Corbin Bosch. The pitch at Barsapara Stadium, composed primarily of red soil, is expected to offer consistent bounce, with spin likely to dominate as the game progresses. This match follows the previous test at Eden Gardens, which concluded within three days, adding to the anticipation surrounding the pitch’s behavior.
Both teams are set for an intense battle as South Africa seeks to extend their winning momentum, while India aims to level the series. The lineups feature a mix of seasoned players and emerging talents, promising an exciting contest for cricket fans worldwide.
-
India’s blind women cricketers chase history at first T20 World Cup
The inaugural Blind Women’s T20 Cricket World Cup has become a platform for extraordinary stories of resilience and determination, particularly for the Indian team. Comprising players from diverse rural backgrounds, these women have overcome significant societal and personal challenges to compete on the global stage. The tournament, which began on November 11 in Delhi and moved to Colombo for the knockout stages, features six teams: India, Nepal, Pakistan, Sri Lanka, Australia, and the USA. The Indian squad, representing nine states, has emerged as a dominant force, winning all five of their matches and securing a spot in the semi-finals. Blind cricket, played with a plastic ball containing metal bearings that produce sound, requires players to rely on auditory cues. Players are classified into B1, B2, and B3 categories based on their level of visual impairment, with B1 players being fully blind. The Indian team’s journey is led by captain Deepika TC, who lost her vision in an accident as a child. Her leadership has been pivotal, inspiring her teammates and drawing support from cricketing legends like Jemimah Rodrigues and Shubman Gill. The team’s success is a testament to the efforts of the Cricket Association for the Blind in India (CABI), which has been instrumental in promoting the sport among visually impaired women. The tournament has not only provided a stage for these athletes but also highlighted the need for greater inclusivity in sports. As the semi-finals and final approach, the Indian team aims to make history by securing the championship, further elevating the profile of blind cricket globally.
-
Ai Goto dominates Faldo Junior Final in Al Ain; UAE’s Rayhan Ahmed best of home hopes
In a stunning display of skill and composure, 16-year-old Japanese golf sensation Ai Goto clinched victory at the 29th Faldo Junior Tour European Grand Final held at the Al Ain Equestrian, Shooting & Golf Club. Goto, hailed as a ‘next-generation’ star in Japanese women’s golf, delivered a masterclass performance, finishing 12-under-par over three rounds with scores of 66, 65, and 67. Her remarkable consistency included 17 birdies and one eagle, despite a dramatic quadruple bogey in her opening round. Goto’s triumph underscored her rising prominence in the sport. Zambia’s Michael Chuma, who carded a breathtaking 61 in the final round, secured the runner-up position, two strokes behind Goto. Among the 67 participants from around the globe, UAE’s Rayhan Ahmed emerged as the top local finisher, tying for 8th place with a total score of 206 (–4). Ahmed, 18, reflected on his performance, highlighting challenges with his driving but praising his approach game. He now sets his sights on the Tommy Fleetwood Pathway Series in Ras Al Khaimah. The event also featured other UAE competitors, including Mohammad Skaik and Ananyaa Sood, showcasing the growing talent in the region. Goto’s victory not only cements her status as a rising star but also highlights the global appeal and competitive spirit of junior golf.
-
AS FAR claim second African Women’s Champions League title
In a thrilling showdown, AS FAR emerged victorious in the African Women’s Champions League final, defeating debutants ASEC Mimosas 2-1 to claim their second continental title. The Moroccan club took an early lead in the 13th minute when Hanane Ait El Haj converted a penalty after Safa Banouk was fouled by Aboa Yapo. ASEC Mimosas fought back in the second half, with Ami Priscal Diallo scoring a superb header from Sopie Brou’s cross to level the score. However, AS FAR regained the lead in the 85th minute through another penalty, this time expertly taken by Zineb Redouani after Noura Diarra’s reckless challenge on Sofia Bouftini. Despite a late scare when Asastasie Gbehi narrowly missed the target in stoppage time, AS FAR held on to secure the win. The victory marks their second triumph in the competition, tying them with South Africa’s Mamelodi Sundowns as two-time champions. AS FAR now advances to face China’s Wuhan Jiangda on December 14 for a spot in the inaugural FIFA Women’s Champions Cup, with the winner set to take on European champions Arsenal in the semi-finals next year in London.