Category Archives: Sports

Meet Tahsin, Nishan, Indian origin footballers, to play in 2026 FIFA World Cup

Amazing Feats, NRI's / PIO's, Sports, World Opinion, , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , ,

Kannur, KERALA / Doha, QATAR :

India has not qualified for the 2026 FIFA World Cup but two footballers – Tahsin and Nishan, are making the country proud as the countdown for the football mega event begins

Tahsin Mohammed Jamshid (L) and Nishan Velupillay

2026 FIFA World Cup: 

India has not qualified for the 2026 FIFA World Cup but two footballers – Tahsin and Nishan, are making the country proud as the countdown for the football mega event begins.

The 2026 FIFA World Cup is set for a grand inauguration on June 11, 2026. Weeks before the inauguration of the football world cup, two footballers – Tahsin Mohammed Jamshid and Nishan Velupillay are adding to the football fever in India.

And the reason is their country of origin.

Tahsin Mohammed Jamshid and Nishan Velupillay both have their roots in India, and they will be playing the 2026 Football World Cup, though not for India but for the countries they are currently residing in.

Tahsin Mohammed Jamshid

19-year-old Tahsin Mohammed Jamshid is the first footballer of Indian-origin selected in Qatar’s squad for the 2026 FIFA World Cup.

Tahsin’s parents, Jamshid and Shaima, migrated from Kannur, Kerala in 1996 and settled in Doha, Qatar where Tahsin was born on June 16, 2006.

The winger, who is described as quick, direct, and impactful on the wings, came through Qatar’s Aspire Academy and plays for Al Duhail Sports Club.

Tahsin, who earlier represented Qatar at senior, U23, U20, and lower youth levels and is regarded as one of the country’s promising young talents, made his senior debut for Qatar in the World Cup qualifier against Afghanistan.

Tashin’s father Jamshid currently working as Accountant, is also a footballer and had played for University of Calicut, Kerala.

Nishan Velupillay

Nishan Velupillay (25) has been confirmed in the 26-member Australian squad for the 2026 football world cup.

The Melbourne Victory winger was born on May 7, 2001 in Melbourne, Australia. His father, Sasinath Velupillay, is Malaysian with Sri Lankan Tamil roots, and his mother, Gillian, is Anglo-Indian.

Nishan made his debut for Australia in 2024 and scored on his first appearance in the World Cup qualifier against China. Since then, he has become a regular part of the Australian national football team.

With his selection for the World Cup, Velupillay is set to become the first footballer of Tamil heritage to play at the football world cup.

“A Historic Moment”

Congress leader and MP Shashi Tharoor who posted the brief profile of the two footballers said their inclusion in the Qatar and Australian national teams are proud moment for India too.

“A historic moment for Indian football fans! As the 2026 FIFA World Cup approaches, we will have two players of Indian heritage gracing the global stage”, Tharoor wrote on social media platform X.

“They follow in the footsteps of Vikash Dhorasoo, the elegant and creative midfielder whose forefathers hailed from Vizianagaram, Andhra Pradesh (migrating to Mauritius and later to France), who played for the French National Team in the 2006 FIFA World Cup in Germany, winning a runners-up medal”, Tharoor further wrote.

The 2026 edition of the World Cup will be the first to feature 48 teams and three host countries. The United States will have 11 of the 16 hosts cities at the 2026 FIFA World Cup, which will also feature matches in Mexico and Canada.

The 2026 FIFA World Cup will be inaugurated on June 11, 2026 whereas the 2026 Football World Cup Final will be played on July 19, 2026.

source: http://www.ummid.com / Ummid.com / Home> 2026 FIFA World Cup / by ummid.com news network / June 03rd, 2026

AMU Women’s College Students Win Silver at Indiaskate National Championship

Sports, Women/Girls(since May26-2021), , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , ,

Aligarh, UTTAR PRADESH :

Aligarh :

Students of Women’s College, Aligarh Muslim University, brought laurels to the institution as Nabeela Khan (B.Sc. Biochemistry) and Ashfia Khan (B.A. Psychology) secured a silver medal at the Indiaskate National Championship 2026 held from April 23 to 28.

Leading the Uttar Pradesh team, captain Nabeela Khan displayed strong leadership and determination throughout the tournament. In the final against Tamil Nadu, the team delivered a spirited performance, finishing 16–8 to clinch the silver medal.

Both players played a key role in guiding the team to the finals, showcasing excellent coordination, resilience and competitive spirit at the national level.

source: http://www.indiaeducationdiary.in / India Education Diary / Home> National News> University News / by India Education Bureau / May 02nd, 2026

Against odds, Saba Anjum becomes India’s speedy forward

Amazing Feats, Arjuna Awards (since 01st January 2024), Bharat Ratna, Padma Vibhushan, Padma Bhushan, Padma Shri Award (since January 01st, 2024), Sports, Women/Girls(since May26-2021), World Opinion,

Kelabadi (Durg), CHHATTISGARH :

Saba Anjum

In the narrow lanes of ‘Kelabadi’ locality in Durg, a 9-year-old girl could be seen playing hockey with boys. She had neither expensive shoes nor her own hockey stick. She used her elder brother’s old, broken stick, wrapped with tape, to step onto the field. Her father worked as a muezzin in a local mosque.

The family’s income was so low that sometimes it was difficult to light the stove even for one meal a day. When she decided to pursue hockey as her passion, society mocked her, “A girl will play wearing shorts?” But her father was determined that his daughter would write her own destiny. This is the story of Saba Anjum Karim, the girl who rose from the dusty lanes of Chhattisgarh to wave the tricolor on global sports fields.

Saba Anjum playing hockey

Former Indian women’s hockey forward Saba Anjum says that when she started playing, her family’s financial condition was not good. Her father worked as a muezzin in the mosque, while her mother worked to support household expenses. Once, during a summer camp at the playground, children were given jaggery and chickpeas after playing. She started playing thinking she would get jaggery and chickpeas. With this thought, she began her sports journey. Later, a running competition was organized where she participated and secured first place. As a prize, she received a hockey stick. That moment became her inspiration to continue playing hockey.

Her school later participated in the Nehru Hockey Tournament, after which she was selected for the Indian national team. She never looked back after that. She played the Nehru Hockey Cup in 1999. From 2002 to 2012, she was a member of the Indian national hockey team and represented the country in many competitions. During this period, she also captained the Indian team. Her elder brother was also a national-level hockey player.

The President, Shri Pranab Mukherjee presenting the Padma Shri Award to Smt. Saba Anjum, at a Civil Investiture Ceremony, at Rashtrapati Bhavan, in New Delhi on April 08, 2015.

Saba Anjum receiving an award from former President Pranab Mukherjee

Born on 12 June 1985, Saba Anjum shared that in 1997, during a match, her coach dropped her from playing and did not give her another chance in the team. She was only 11 years old then. Her father went to the coach and requested him to give his daughter another opportunity to play. That moment remains very special in her memory. Her father was pleading with the coach to allow her to play. This incident motivated her to continue playing and improve. That day became a turning point in her life.

Padma Shri awardee Saba Anjum says that during her childhood, when she returned home after playing, her father worked at the mosque. She would wait outside the mosque for him to come out and buy her cashews, raisins, or some food items. She often sat outside the mosque waiting for him. That memory remains very close to her heart.

Saba Anjum on the hockey ground

According to the Arjuna Award-winning player, there were some social barriers because she came from a Muslim family. But her father and mother always supported her. They encouraged her to play at all times. When she was selected for the Indian team, she faced difficulties in making her passport because of financial problems. At that time, her mother even sold household utensils to arrange money for her passport. Her parents made countless sacrifices for her future.

Serving as an Additional Superintendent of Police (ASP), Saba Anjum said that when she joined the Indian team, she was inspired by senior players. She was motivated to perform better and one day become the captain of the Indian hockey team. Hockey gave her a lot in life. She received the Arjuna Award and the Padma Shri award. She was also appointed as a DSP in the Chhattisgarh Police.

Saba Anjum playing hockey

She gave a clear message to the youth — whether they are athletes or students, they should recognize their potential and work continuously to improve it. Success comes only through hard work. Hard work gives you a unique identity. There is no shortcut to success; only dedication leads to progress.

Educated in Raipur, Sab a Anjum was a regular member of the Indian women’s hockey team. Her ability to run fast on the wings and carry the ball toward the goalpost gave her a unique identity. In 2002, the world was watching the Manchester Commonwealth Games. Seventeen-year-old Sab a was the youngest player in the Indian team. When India won the gold medal in the finals, she became an overnight star.

Saba Anjum on the hockey ground

She not only scored goals but also pierced through the opponent’s defence with her speed. Success continued after that. Whether it was the 2004 Asia Cup gold or captaining the Indian team in 2011, she proved herself at every stage. Scoring 92 goals in 200 international matches showed her skill and talent.

After shining on the hockey field, the Government of India honored her with the Arjuna Award (2013) and Padma Shri (2015). The Chhattisgarh government also recognized her achievements and appointed her in the police department. Today, when Sab a wears her police uniform, she is not just an officer but a beacon of hope for thousands of girls living in hardship.

People who once mocked her near the same playground in Durg now salute her with pride.

source: http://www.awazthevoice.in / Awaz,The Voice / Home> Stories / by Mandakini Mishra, Raipur / April 06th, 2026

Mangaluru’s shuttlers win Bronze Medal at National Level Badminton Championship

Karnataka (under research project), Sports

Mangaluru, KARNATAKA :

Mangaluru:

City shuttlers Rayeez PC and Dheeresh, representing Karnataka, secured a bronze medal at the Yonex Sunrise 48th Indian Masters (Veteran) National Level Badminton Championship held at the Manohar Parrikar Indoor Stadium in Goa from March 18 to 25.

The duo advanced to the semifinals after registering a notable victory in the quarterfinals against Kerala’s Jayan James and Rajesh Krishnan, who are currently ranked number two in the country.

In the semifinal, Rayeez and Dheeresh faced a team from Maharashtra but were unable to progress further, eventually finishing the tournament with a bronze medal.

Both players hail from Mangaluru and represented Karnataka in the national-level event.

source: http://www.english.varthabharati.in / Vartha Bharati / Home> Karavali / by Vartha Bharati / March 30th, 2026

Ten Muslim women who defied norms to become sports champions

Amazing Feats, Sports, Women/Girls(since May26-2021), World Opinion

INDIA :

Muslim women in sports

New Delhi :

In its series Parwaz featuring extraordinary Muslim women of India, Awaz-the Voice brings you the stories of ten Muslim sportswomen, each one a name to reckon with in her field. Their achievements and acts of bringing glory to the nation have often come after they dared to defy social norms and relentless pursuit of their dreams. Their achievements have also resulted in a change in the attitude of society towards Muslim women:

Here are their brief stories:

Alfiya Pathan

Alfiya Pathan

From the narrow lanes of Nagpur, Alfiya Pathan has risen to become a world champion. Her journey was marked by persistence and quiet defiance of societal norms. Inspired by her brother and the film Mary Kom, she trained rigorously despite resistance, eventually clinching gold at the AIBA Youth World Boxing Championship in Kalisz with a dominant performance.

Known for her sharp technique in the ring and simplicity off it, Alfiya’s rise reflects the making of a formidable athlete who continues to chase Olympic dreams while inspiring young girls to step beyond conventional boundaries.

Alima Rahman

Alima Rahman

In Kolkata, Alima Rahman—popularly known as the ‘Hijabi Biker’—has carved a unique identity by confidently riding through the city streets while staying rooted in her faith. Encouraged by her father despite societal resistance, she overcame ridicule and harassment to assert that women are equally capable in all fields.

Today, she stands not just as a biker but as a symbol of empowerment, promoting road safety and redefining the balance between tradition and modern aspirations.

Aneesa Sayyad

Aneesa Sayyad

At a time when Indian shooting celebrates stars like Manu Bhaker and Abhinav Bindra, the story of Aneesa Sayyad remains a powerful yet understated chapter. Rising from modest beginnings in Maharashtra, she built her own practice setup at home before achieving glory at the 2010 Commonwealth Games with double gold in the 25-metre pistol event.

Despite her achievements, she faced institutional neglect and personal challenges, and now lives a quieter life in Faridabad, her journey serving as a poignant reminder of both excellence and the struggles faced by many athletes beyond their peak.

Fariha Zaman

Fariha Zaman

Hailing from Guwahati, Fariha Zaman overcame administrative hurdles and personal adversity to become the ‘Backstroke Queen of India’. A prodigy who began swimming as a toddler, she went on to set national records and win multiple international medals. Forced to leave Assam due to systemic issues, she later returned with a vision to nurture future talent as part of the Sports Authority of Assam, determined to ensure that upcoming swimmers do not face the challenges she once endured.

Nazreen Ahmed

Nazreen Ahmed

Breaking barriers in an era when women’s cricket had little recognition, Nazreen Ahmed from Guwahati emerged as a pioneer of the sport. Training under Lala Amarnath, she led Assam to its first major victory in women’s cricket in 1981, showcasing resilience despite minimal facilities and societal constraints. Later, balancing a distinguished administrative career, she continues to advocate for the growth of women’s cricket, her journey forming the foundation for today’s stars like Smriti Mandhana and Harmanpreet Kaur.

Nikhat Zareen

Nikhat Zareen

From Nizamabad, Nikhat Zareen has emerged as one of India’s most celebrated boxing champions, transforming early struggles and societal resistance into global success. Training at the Sports Authority of India, she rose through the ranks to win back-to-back gold medals at the IBA Women’s World Boxing Championships in 2022 and 2023, along with a Commonwealth Games gold. Her journey reflects not only sporting excellence but also the growing empowerment of women through sport.

Umaira

Umaira

In Kannur, powerlifter Umaira has redefined age and gender norms by beginning her sporting journey at 39 and rising to national prominence. Competing in the Masters category, she has secured multiple medals with an impressive combined lift of around 350 kg, all while balancing family responsibilities and her role as a trainer. Despite injuries and financial constraints, her journey reflects determination and the growing acceptance of women in strength sports.

Shahnaz Parveen

Shahnaz Parveen

Shahnaz Parveen’s story goes far beyond a simple victory; it is an inspiring journey of struggle, determination, and the realisation of dreams. Recently, she showcased exceptional talent and mental strength by winning the gold medal at the All India Inter-University Taekwondo Championship held in Balasore. Amid tough competition, she overcame every opponent with discipline, strategy, and confidence, emerging as an outstanding athlete.

Today, Shahnaz stands as an inspiration for countless young girls who are forced to suppress their dreams due to social barriers. Her journey proves that with strong willpower and relentless effort, no obstacle is insurmountable.

Saba Anjum Karim

Saba Anjum Karim

From the modest lanes of Durg in Chhattisgarh, Saba Anjum Karim rose to become one of India’s finest hockey forwards.Beginning with a broken stick and humble incentives, she overcame financial hardship and social barriers to play a crucial role in India’s gold medal win at the 2002 Commonwealth Games.

With over 90 international goals and prestigious honours like the Arjuna Award and Padma Shri, she continues to inspire as a police officer and role model for young athletes.

Tajamul Islam

Tajamul Islam

From Bandipora, Kashmir, Tajamul Islam rose to become a world champion in kickboxing. She not only comes from the periphery of India but also from a region that lacked amenities and the culture of women’s sports. She trained relentlessly and achieved international fame by winning gold at the World Kickboxing Championship 2016 at the age of eight.

Beyond her achievements, she has sparked a quiet social transformation, inspiring young girls to challenge stereotypes and pursue their ambitions with confidence.

source: http://www.awazthevoice.in / Awaz, The Voice / Home> Stories / posted by Aasha Khosa / ATV / March 28th, 2026

Six Year Old Amayra Khan Shines in Global Chess Rankings

Amazing Feats, Sports, Women/Girls(since May26-2021), World Opinion

Sagar, MADHYA PRADESH :

Sagar:

Six year old Amayra Khan from Madhya Pradesh has achieved international recognition in chess after a strong performance at the Grand Master Open Chess Championship held in Tamil Nadu. She defeated a FIDE rated player from Goa and secured an international rating of 1450, marking a rare achievement at such a young age.

Amayra also secured the 13th position in the global girls category, placing her among top young players worldwide. Her journey in chess began early. She started playing at the age of three after receiving a chessboard as a birthday gift from her grandfather. Regular games with him helped build her interest and understanding of the game.

Recognising her potential, her family enrolled her in a chess academy where she received structured training. At the age of four, she won her first competitive match. Since then, she has taken part in more than 50 national and international tournaments, showing consistent growth.

Her mother said that Amayra developed strong focus and strategy through regular practice. Each tournament helped improve her skills. Her steady performance has brought recognition to her hometown Sagar.

Her achievement highlights the role of early training and family support in shaping young talent. At an age when many children engage in basic activities, Amayra has built a record in a complex intellectual sport.

Her family plans to continue supporting her participation in national and international competitions. They aim to see her represent India at higher levels in the future.

Local residents have expressed pride in her success. Her progress has inspired many children to take interest in chess and other learning activities.

Amayra’s journey shows that disciplined effort and early guidance lead to strong outcomes even at a young age.

source: http://www.radiancenews.com / Radiance News / Home> Latest News / by Radiance News Bureau / March 23rd, 2026

Auqib Nabi: Kashmiri Prodigy

Amazing Feats, Sports, , , , , , , , , , , , , , , ,

Baramulla, JAMMU & KASHMIR :

His 60 wickets led J&K to its maiden Ranji Trophy triumph

AUQIB NABI’S SINGLE-season journey from a largely unknown cricketer outside of Jammu & Kashmir to the toast of the Indian cricketing fraternity, after having led his state to their maiden Ranji Trophy with the ball, is the kind of feat that makes followers of the sport believe in fairytales.

But make no mistake, the 29-year-old fast bowler’s wider arc of be­coming a professional cricketer of repute from the Val­ley is no miracle.

For, Nabi’s phenomenal rise is steeped in hard work, single-minded dedication to his passion despite his father, a middle-school teacher in Baramulla, being dead-set against his choice and a whole lot of be­lief, given that J&K had no real cricket-infrastructure to speak of when Nabi took up the sport over a decade ago.

Nabi managed to raise some eyebrows with 44 wick­ets in the previous first-class season (2024-25), but has all but kicked the door to the Indian team down with 60 wickets in 2025-26—the most by any bowler in this Ranji Trophy edition.

He picked them in great bunches, with eight five-wicket hauls studding his tally, includ­ing one in the final in Hubballi, the backyard of the favourites, Karnataka.

Far from being intimidated, Nabi ended up counting among his scalps the wickets of KL Rahul, centurion Mayank Agarwal and Karun Nair for nought—all three of whom have or continue to represent India in Test cricket, the ultimate stage and format in the sport that Nabi now seems destined for.

source: http://www.openthemagazine.com / OPEN / Home> Sports / by Aditya Iyer / March 06th, 2026

Kundapur Rural SI Nasir Hussain collapses while running marathon in Udupi, dies

Community Involvement / Social Issues, Karnataka (under research project), Sports, , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , ,

Udupi District, KARNATAKA :

Udupi:

Kundapur Rural Sub-inspector Nasir Hussain reportedly collapsed while participating in a marathon for police officers in Ajjarakadu, Udupi, on Sunday and died shortly after. He was 58.

The district unit of the Police Department had organized a 5-km marathon at the Ajjarakadu grounds on Sunday morning. Hussain was among hundreds of police officers who participated in the run.

The SI is said to have collapsed suddenly while on the track and turned seriously ill. He was immediately taken to a private hospital in Udupi, but the doctors who checked him reportedly there declared him dead.

Nasir Hussain was earlier posted as sub-inspector in Amasebailu, Kundapur Town, Kundapur Traffic, Shankaranarayana and Karkala Rural in Udupi district as well as various police stations in Chikkamagaluru district.

source: http://www.english.varthabharati.in / Vartha Bharati / Home> Karavali / by Vartha Bharati / March 01st, 2026

Paradise team clinches BCC Premier League 2026 title

Community Involvement / Social Issues, Karnataka (under research project), Sports, , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , ,

Belvai (Moodabidri Taluk, Dakshina Kannada District), KARNATAKA :

Belvai:

The two-day BCC Premier League 2026 (Season 3), an underarm cricket tournament organised by the Belvai Community Center (BCC), concluded successfully on February 1 at the SMP High School Ground. The tournament was held on January 31 and February 1 and witnessed enthusiastic participation and community support.

The inaugural function took place on January 31 and was chaired by BCC President Anwar Hussain Ismail. The programme was hosted by BCC Secretary Shaikh Fahad.

The tournament was managed by Events Manager Zahid Hussain, assisted by Mohammed Siraj, while the inauguration was formally carried out by Hasdulla Ismail.

Several prominent community members attended the inaugural ceremony, including Mohammed Saheb Usman, Nasir Shaikh Gulam Hussain, Anwar A. Karim, Shawkath Ali, Ameer Gause, Hussain Saheb, Nasir New Master, Munir Yousuf, Nasir A. Kareem, Abdul Qayyum and Azeem Jafar Saheb.

In the final match, Paradise Team emerged victorious and was crowned Champion of the BCC Premier League 2026 (Season 3). Team Belvai Friends finished as the runners-up after a competitive tournament.

Speaking at the closing ceremony, President Anwar Hussain Ismail said that such sporting events help promote harmony, discipline and team spirit within the community. He expressed gratitude to the main sponsors, ALS Borderless Logistics, Expertise, AR Arabian Logistics and Team Ten Racing. He also thanked all donors, well-wishers, BCC members, volunteers, team owners, players and members of the organising committee for their contributions to the success of the tournament.

source: http://www.english.varthabharati.in / Vartha Bharati / Home> Karavali / February 03rd, 2026

Zaara Vasim Assadi wins four gold medals at Muscat Night Festival Karate Championship

Karnataka (under research project), NRI's / PIO's, Sports, Women/Girls(since May26-2021), , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , ,

Udupi, KARNATAKA / Muscat, OMAN :

Muscat, Oman:

Indian karateka Zaara Vasim Assadi emerged as the standout performer at the International Karate Open Championship held as part of the Muscat Night Festival, clinching four gold medals in a remarkable display of skill and consistency.

The prestigious tournament saw participation from around 400 athletes representing 24 clubs across multiple countries. Amid intense competition, Zaara, aged just 10, created history by becoming the only girl at the championship to secure gold in all four categories she competed in individual Kata, individual Kumite, team Kata, and team Kumite.

Zaara’s achievement adds to her already impressive record. She has remained undefeated in Kata since the age of five, underlining her long-standing dominance in the discipline. Her performances were widely praised for technical precision, discipline, and composure well beyond her age.

Training at The Champ Sports & Arts in Muscat, Zaara’s journey has become a source of inspiration for young martial artists, reinforcing the idea that dedication and passion can overcome age-related barriers in competitive sport.

The championship also served as a platform for cultural exchange, bringing together athletes and spectators from diverse backgrounds and celebrating the unifying spirit of karate.

Zaara Vasim Assadi is the daughter of Vasim Assadi and Hasra Sana and hails from Udupi. She is the granddaughter of Zikriya Assadi.

source: http://www.english.varthabharati.in / Vartha Bharati / Home> Gulf / by Vartha Bharati / February 02nd, 2026