The Indian Olympic Association faced another heated confrontation as PT Usha, the President of the body, clashed with the Executive Council over the appointment of CEO Raghuram Iyer. The majority of the Council members opposed Iyer's appointment, but Usha fiercely defended him. However, the Council has decided to re-initiate the process of appointing a CEO, much to Usha's dismay. This feud could have negative consequences for India's chances of hosting the 2036 Olympics, as warned by Usha and witnessed by an IOC Director during the meeting.
Clash Within Indian Olympic Association over CEO Appointment
Background:
The Indian Olympic Association (IOA) is the governing body for the participation of India in the Olympic Games and other international multi-sport events. Recently, the IOA has been facing internal strife over the appointment of its Chief Executive Officer (CEO).
Recent Events:
On February 28, 2023, the IOA President, P.T. Usha, and the Executive Council clashed over the appointment of Raghuram Iyer as CEO. A majority of the Council members opposed Iyer's appointment, arguing that he lacked the necessary experience and qualifications. However, Usha staunchly defended her choice.
Consequences:
The feud between Usha and the Executive Council has raised concerns about India's ability to host the 2036 Olympics. Usha has warned that the infighting could jeopardize India's chances of securing the hosting rights.
IOC's Intervention:
An International Olympic Committee (IOC) Director was present during the meeting and witnessed the heated confrontation. The IOC has since expressed concern over the developments within the IOA.
FAQs:
1. Why is Raghuram Iyer's appointment controversial? Raghuram Iyer is a former Director-General of Police but has no prior experience in sports administration. Some Council members question his suitability for the CEO role within the IOA.
2. What is the process for appointing a CEO? The process of appointing a CEO typically involves a search committee, interviews, and a final decision by the Executive Council. However, in this case, Usha had reportedly made the appointment without following the proper procedure.
3. What are the consequences of the feud within the IOA? The feud could lead to a loss of credibility for the IOA and damage India's reputation within the Olympic movement. It could also jeopardize India's chances of hosting the 2036 Olympics.
4. What is the role of the IOC in this matter? The IOC serves as the governing body for the Olympic Games and has a keen interest in the stability and effectiveness of National Olympic Committees worldwide. The IOC's intervention in this matter shows its concern about the situation within the IOA.
5. What is the next step for the IOA? The Executive Council has decided to re-initiate the process of appointing a CEO. Usha has expressed dismay over this decision, but it remains unclear what further actions she or the IOA will take.
Former Indian cricketer and chief selector, Ajit Agarkar, spoke at the NDTV World Summit about his experience in different cricketing roles. He said that his current job as a chief selector is the toughest because of the pressure to make decisions that can make or break players' careers. This is especially difficult in a country like India, where there is a plethora of talented players. Agarkar also shared that his playing days gave him the greatest satisfaction.
In a recent interview, chief selector Agarkar discussed the future of star duo Rohit Sharma and Virat Kohli as the 2027 ODI World Cup approaches. While they are set to return to the team for the upcoming series against Australia, Agarkar hinted at the possibility of newer, younger players joining the squad as well. However, he also emphasized the past achievements and contributions of Rohit and Kohli to the team and assured that they will not be judged harshly based on their performance in the upcoming matches. Ultimately, the team combination and management's decision will play a crucial role in determining the veteran duo's involvement in the mega event.
After remaining tight-lipped on the matter, the Chief Selector of the Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI), Ajit Agarkar, has finally addressed the question on everyone's mind - Will Virat Kohli and Rohit Sharma be part of India's ODI World Cup squad in 2027? Agarkar stated that it is difficult to say what the future holds for the two star players and that they will not be judged on every series they play. He also emphasized on the importance of respecting legacy players like Kohli and Rohit.
Indian shuttler Tanvi Sharma made history by clinching a medal for India at the BWF World Junior Championships. Facing tough competition, Tanvi came back from losing the first game and won the next two, securing a spot in the semifinals. Celebrations broke out, with Tanvi's reaction and junior women's coach Park Tae-sang's elation going viral on social media. This accomplishment marks the first time an Indian woman has won a World Junior medal since Saina Nehwal's triumph in 2008.
Young Indian shuttler Tanvi Sharma secured a medal for India at the BWF World Junior Championships after defeating Japan's Saki Matsumoto in a thrilling quarterfinal match. Despite a shaky start, Tanvi showed her grit and tactical maturity to make a stunning comeback and secure her spot in the semifinals. While Tanvi celebrated her victory, India's young mixed doubles pair Unnati Hooda and Tanish Sharma fell short in the quarterfinals, losing to Thailand's Anyapat Phichitphon and ending their bid for a medal.
In a thrilling Ranji Trophy 2025-26 match between Madhya Pradesh and Punjab, MP captain Rajat Patidar hit a massive milestone by scoring his first ever First Class double hundred. In a spectacular display of skill and determination, Patidar reached the landmark figure off the 328th ball of his innings, beating his previous best First Class score of 196. This victory further solidifies Patidar's new role as MP's all-format skipper, cementing him as one of the top players to watch out for in the upcoming cricket season.
Following the departures of several top members of their backroom staff, including head coach Chandrakant Pandit, the Kolkata Knight Riders seem to be on the lookout for a new coach. Fans are speculating that legendary spinner and former India captain Anil Kumble, who has a wealth of coaching experience both internationally and in the IPL, could be the one to take over the reins. With a record-breaking career as a player and a proven track record as a mentor, Kumble could be just the person to lead the underperforming KKR to glory in the upcoming season.
Australia's all-rounder Cameron Green has been ruled out of the upcoming three-ODI series against India due to 'side soreness'. This has raised concerns about his fitness for the 2025 Ashes, as his all-round abilities are crucial for the team. The board has called up Marnus Labuschagne as a replacement and expects Green to be available for the third round of Sheffield Shield. This move shows Australia's complete priority towards the Ashes, with first-choice wicketkeeper Alex Carey also missing the first ODI for his Ashes preparation.
Former Indian cricketer Anil Kumble celebrates his birthday. He holds the record for most Test wickets by an Indian and is also the leading wicket-taker for India in ODIs. Kumble was the second player in history to take all ten wickets in a Test match innings and later went on to coach the Indian team to numerous victories. He was inducted into the ICC Hall of Fame in 2015.
The Australian Cricket Team has suffered a major blow as all-rounder Cameron Green has been ruled out of the upcoming ODI series against the Indian Cricket Team due to an injury. In his place, Marnus Labuschagne has been added to the squad, after initially being overlooked for poor performance in the previous series. This is the third change in Australia's ODI squad, with two previous players opting out. Green will undergo rehabilitation and is expected to return for the Ashes series in 2025-26.