Hyderabad Sports | Stadiums

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From Haryana to Hyderabad and honours in Olympics

HYDERABAD, AUG. 6:
What is common to Haryana, Hyderabad and Olympics, especially the ongoing London games?

Two of the three Indians who did the country proud by winning medals at London 2012, have traversed this journey. Yes, you are right, both Saina Nehwal, the super shuttler and Gagan Narang, the ace shooter, belong to Haryana, but have made Hyderabad their home.

There is also the reverse route to glory. Karnam Malleswari the lone Indian woman weight lifter to win an Olympic medal (Sydney 2000), hails from Andhra Pradesh, but has settled down in Haryana as she works in the Food Corporation of India there and has been honoured by that State.

There is something ticking in these two places for sports to flourish. If you go by the numbers, Haryana has contributed 18 top-notch participants to the Indian contingent. On the other hand, Hyderabad has some of the biggest names and prospects — led by the virtual Indian challenge in badminton – Saina Nehwal, Jwala Gutta, Ashwini Ponnappa and Parupalli Kashyap --Sania Mirza and Vishnuvardhan Reddy (tennis) and Gagan Narang (shooting).

Hyderabad, for instance, has become a badminton hub, thanks to excellent facilities and coaching from stalwarts such as Dronacharya S.M. Arif, late Mir Mahboob Ali, Goverdhan Reddy, Bhaskar Babu and the former All England champion Pullela Gopichand. The State Government’s patronage of sports also plays an important part. Saina’s father works at the Directorate of Oilseeds Research, while Gagan Narang’s father was in the Indian Airlines, which brought them to Hyderabad.

Former Chief Minister N. Chandrababu Naidu gave a big push to sports by creating infrastructure for National Games, Afro-Asian games which were held early in the new millennium. Hyderabad could boast of international-grade hockey turf, athletics track, shooting range and indoor sports complex at Gachibowli.

During his regime, sportsmen were also honoured with cash awards and some like Gopichand were given land to develop a training academy. The soft-spoken and dedicated Gopichand, toiled to raise funds to set up the Academy. He also found financial support from industrialist Nimmagadda Prasad for the venture. The result of the efforts is manifest in a rich crop of youngsters coming out to represent the country.

The present Chief Minister Kiran Kumar Reddy is himself an erstwhile cricketer. He has shown keen interest in encouraging sports. His Government has upped the budget to Rs 225 crore from just Rs 20 crore last year. He also plans to make sports compulsory in all schools.

In the coming days, Haryana will be in the limelight. India’s medal hopes depend heavily on its boxers and wrestlers, their prowess flowing perhaps from their martial origins. The State Government’s generous cash reward programme and recognition serve as booster doses, especially in a country where sports other than cricket have suffered from step-motherly treatment for decades.

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Hyderabad CA in command

Mysore, Aug 8 (IANS) Hyderabad Cricket Association (CA) took a commanding 307-run first innings lead over KSCA President's XI after making 585 in the Shafi Darashah Trophy cricket tournament here Wednesday.
Resuming at their overnight score of 253 for four in reply to the home team's 278, Hyderabad batsmen continued their merry way to ensure a massive lead. Veteran VVS Laxman, 102 overnight, went on to make 169 (207b) while A. Quadri also helped himself to a century (133).
At the Gangothri Glades grounds, Mumbai CA were 445 for six responding to Rajasthan CA's first innings score of 277. Leading the Mumbai's charge were Swapnil Salvi (124), Kaustubha Pawar (164) and Hiken Shah (105) as the Rajasthan bowlers toiled for little success.
In Alur, KSCA XI dismissed Bangladesh 'A' for 214 to take a 70-run lead and then stretched it by making 284 for seven declared in their second innings with R. Samarth (86) being the top scorer. The visitors were 17 without loss chasing a victory target of 355.
Play in the other game between KSCA Colts, who were 279 for nine overnight, and Baroda CA, was called off for the day without a ball being bowled due to rains.
Brief scores:
In Alur: KSCA XI 284 all out in 89.1 overs and 284 for 7 decl in 66.4 overs (R Samarth 86, KB Pawan 47, Ganesh Satish 68, Md Nayeem Islam 5/38) vs Bangladesh 'A' 214 all out in 68.5 overs (Md Mithun 46, K. Gowtham 6/74) and 17 for no loss in 8 overs.
In Bangalore: KSCA Colts 279 for 9 in 100.3 overs vs Baroda CA. Day 3 play rained off.
In Mysore: KSCA President's XI 278 all out in 90 overs and 9 for no loss in 2 overs vs Hyderabad CA 585 all out in 157.5 overs (VVS Laxman 169, A Quadri 133, Ashish Reddy 62, K Sumanth 63, Ryan Ninan 2/92, Ronit More 2/112, SK Moinuddin 4/142).
Rajasthan CA 277 all out in 83.3 overs vs Mumbai CA 445 for 6 in 125 overs (Swapnil Salvi 124, Kaustubha Pawar 164, Hiken Shah 105, Deepak Chahar 2/91, Raman Chahar 4/52).

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Sachin to go to Hyderabad to meet Saina

http://timesofindia.indiatimes.com/s...w/15420313.cms

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A hat-trick of titles, hearts for Naina

She shocks locals defeating better-ranked Karnam Spoorthy in the youth girls final 4-2

The three-day State ranking table tennis tournament that concluded at DRRMC indoor stadium witnessed a brilliant display of paddling by Hyderabad’s Naina, who won a hat-trick of titles – youth, junior and sub junior and hearts. She shocked the locals when she defeated the better-ranked city’s Karnam Spoorthy in the youth girls final 4-2.

The tourney saw the return of the international paddler K. Chandrachud, who left the game to pursue medicine and he proved his critics wrong by reaching the final only to succumb to South Central Railway’s Somnath Ghosh.

The organisers, in an effort to promote the game among the schoolchildren, conducted a tourney separately them in which local schools took part in the both the boys and girls segments. “The effort met with a good measure of success as more than 10 schools took part,” said district association secretary K. Balaram.

That the academy culture is fast catching up in Vijayawada was visible as coaches were seen busy convincing parents to send their wards to their academies for better coaching.

“The game has immensely prospered in Hyderabad owing to intense rivalry among the academies. The coaches give their best while honing the skills of their wards and the triumphs by their wards in tourneys would help them get more trainees,” said Andhra Pradesh Table Tennis Academy secretary S.M. Sultan.

The organisers felicitated three paddlers who represented India in various age groups – Karnam Spoorthy, Naina, and Nikhat Banu with blazers. They also gave away cash prizes to all the winners and runner-ups of all categories.

Sunflower Group chairman Punnam Raju, District Sports Development Officer P.V. Ramakrishna, Krishna District Olympic Association secretary K. P. Rao, Krishna District Table Tennis Association president K.V.S Prakash, Income Tax Officer P. Viswanath and others took part in the prize distribution function.

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Want to revive sport in Hyderabad: Gagan Narang

HYDERABAD: The bronze medal at the London Games has taken off a big stone on his chest and now shooter Gagan Narang wants to focus on reviving 'dying sports' in his home city of Hyderabad.

Narang said he would like to nurture young talent by starting sports academy in the state with the support of the government.

"I would like to nurture talent in the state by opening sports academies and centres of excellence with the help of government, with the support of rifle association of AP. The media support is important.

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Real Hero: Gagan Narang wants shooting improvement in Hyderabad

Hyderabad: The bronze medal at the London Games has taken off a big stone on his chest and now shooter Gagan Narang wants to focus on reviving 'dying sports' in his home city of Hyderabad.
Narang said he would like to nurture young talent by starting sports academy in the state with the support of the government.
"I would like to nurture talent in the state by opening sports academies and centres of excellence with the help of government, with the support of rifle association of AP. The media support is important.



"Secondly, the right kind of support from government is necessary at the right point of time. Sports in Hyderabad is dying. I don't see many youngsters taking interest in sport," Narang said while interacting with reporters here.
"There was no maintenance, no upgradation of shooting facilities at the shooting ranges (in Hyderabad) since 2002 when the range was constructed until now. I hope I will be able to give a shot in the arm especially to shooting sport facilities in AP and produce champions for the country.
Government, corporate and media needs to be a part of this endeavour," he said.
Responding to Narang's proposal to nurture young talent, top state government officials said his plans will be processed with due seriousness and positive consideration after they are received formally.
Gagan, who won bronze medal in 10m air rifle event, also met Chief Minister N Kiran Kumar Reddy and Sports Minister V Vasant Kumar on Tuesday. Narang said he was relieved after winning the honours in London, though he would like to improve further in the next Olympics.
"The pressure in Beijing was immense and I broke under pressure. I missed my final point. Every day of my life I would carry that hurt and pinch inside until I shot that last shot in London and I could win the medal. It was a huge relief.
"I had lot of pressure (in London) and I am glad I could handle that. I missed the gold medal and I will be looking forward to changing the colour next time," Narang said.
"I believe in turning destination into starting point. I think once you push your limits and you are able to achieve what you are set out for, then Olympics medal was one medal which I did not have in my medal cabinet. I feel quite happy about completing that 15-year-old journey into a medal. I feel the journey is also very important because that enriches you with experience," he added.
Recalling his growing up years in Hyderabad, he disclosed that he actually started with cricket as a child but moved on to shooting gradually.
"How I got into shooting was also very interesting.
Everyone who starts shooting, starts with bursting balloons on the beach. For me it was little different. I was riding a cycle in my apartment. By mistake, the cycle went off the stair and I fractured my right hand. A day before that, I went to the club where there was a shooting range for enrolment. I was disappointed when I suffered the fracture. But, I had gone there with the fracture and they were surprised. I managed to shoot somehow," he said.
He also recalled that his father had to sell of a plot of land in Hyderabad to purchase a rifle for him as his mentors those days suggested that he should own a rifle to pursue the sport seriously.

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Gagan Narang arrives in city



Tracing his first shot in shooting at the age of 12 and his school days in Geetanjali, Mamata Schools, a beaming Gagan reminded that Hyderabad always remains very close to his heart.
Ace shooter Gagan Narang was in for two pleasant surprises. For the first time in his successful career, this Hyderabadi, winner of the 2012 London Olympics bronze medallist in 10 m air rifle event, was given a touching reception on his arrival back home after his magnificent feat in London. Then, when he was clearly told by the State government that the latter was open to utilise Gagan’s services in giving shooting a new fillip in the State.

Sadly, the State government is yet to announce a house site for Gagan despite his string of gold at the international level over 15 years now.

Tracing his first shot in shooting at the age of 12 and his school days in Geetanjali, Mamata Schools, a beaming Gagan reminded that Hyderabad always remainsvery close to his heart. “I have had lots of people show abundance of love and I must acknowledge now what all they have done to make me what I am,” were his first comments on Monday.

With once again Andhra Pradesh Sports School students lining up at the airport along with the SAAP trainees in different disciplines waving the mini tri-colour flags, a smiling Gagan exchanged pleasantries at a brisk pace to step into the colourfully decorated open-top bus at the Airport. For a stretch up to the PVNR Expressway, he was on it, acknowledging the greetings of many students including those from Lal Bahadur Memorial School who dotted the route, braving the heat.

The triple Olympian gently reminded that as a young boy when he used to go his dad’s (B. S. Narang) Air India office, then he was talked about as Narang Saab’s son. “Now, I think even my dad can take pride when they introduce him as Gagan’s father,” he remarked with a big smile and a sense of pride.

Gagan said he was open to replicate what he had done in Pune (where he set up the ‘Gun For Glory’ shooting Academy thanks to the initiative of Maharashtra Government). “Everyone knows that the shooting ranges here (Central University) were not upgraded. I sincerely believe with my expertise I can bring in a radical change in the sport,” he said.

Dr. T. R. K. Rao, SAAP VC & MD, was quick to remind they were awaiting clear-cut proposals from the champion shooter and that the Government would go extra yard to help him.

The star shooter was a bit emotional when he revealed that his parents had to sell off their house sites to see him (Gagan) become a big name in shooting. “It is a very expensive sport and I don’t want any parent to suffer a similar fate,” he insisted.

Given this backdrop, Gagan is keeping his fingers crossed as to how things shape up if he were to realise his dream of producing many more Gagans from the State and Hyderabad in particular.

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Gagan Narang meets CM

London Olympics bronze medal winner Gagan Narang on Monday met Chief Minister N. Kiran Kumar Reddy at the camp office in Begumpet here. Mr. Reddy congratulated Mr. Narang for winning the bronze medal in 10 m air rifle. A press release here said that the State government had recently disbursed long pending dues of cash incentives to the tune of Rs. 4.5 crore to 452 sports personalities who won medals in different events. The government had already announced a cash award of Rs. 50 lakh to Mr. Narang for winning the medal.

[Gudavalli]

IPL council to hear DC mortgage case

NEW DELHI: The IPL governing council will meet on Tuesday to decide the fate of Deccan Chargers, who have allegedly flouted rules by mortgaging their franchise to banks to enable them to tide over a tight cash situation, sources said on Monday.

Under IPL rules, franchise owners are not allowed to mortgage their teams and use the funds for other expenses. Members of the IPL governing council were recently informed by some lenders about their exposure to Deccan Chargers which is now part of Deccan Chronicles Holdings. The banks also wanted the cricket body to help get a security for their loan to the franchisee.

The Governing Council discussed the issue on August 9 but failed to arrive at a decision. They will be again grappling with the nettlesome issue on Tuesday.

IPL sources said that Deccan Chargers have taken a loan of Rs 480 crore from one private bank and Rs 170 crore from another by mortgaging their IPL franchise. Apart from these two banks, funds from other creditors are also said to be locked up in Deccan Chargers.

Owners of Deccan Chargers are expected to present their case while bank representatives will detail their grievances and seek a solution, the IPL sources said.

The promoters of Deccan Charges have been under financial stress of late and have pledged their shares with banks to raise funds.

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Deccan Chargers given two weeks time to set their house in order

New Delhi: Aug 14, 2012

The IPL Governing Council gave 14 days time to Deccan Chargers to set their house in order after the BCCI learnt that the Hyderabad-based franchise has mortgaged their team to some banks to deal with their present crisis.

"The governing council today heard both sides--the franchise owners as well as representatives of the banks. We have given Deccan Chargers, 14 days time to sort out the mess and get back to us.

"If the issues are not sorted out within the next fortnight, we will decide on further course of action," a Governing Council member told PTI on condition of anonymity.

The Governing Council discussed the issue after two banks, which had given loans on the mortgage of the IPL team, had taken it up seeking relief.

T Venkkattram Reddy, owners of the IPL franchise, declined to comment when reporters sought his reaction.

The member said "Let us put this on record. The BCCI never allows any of the owners of the franchise to mortgage their teams in order to raise funds from various financial instituitions. As far as the IPL constitution is concerned, it is strictly prohibited."

According to IPL sources, the Chargers have taken loans from the banks by mortgaging their IPL franchise.

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CM announces stadia

Chief Minister N Kiran Kumar Reddy used the flag hoisting today as a platform to roll out his government’s welfare measures.

After the ritual of unfurling the flag, Kiran read out the long list of pro-people measures his government has taken in the past one and half years. “This government constructed eight lakh pucca houses for poor families and another 18 lakh houses are in various stages of construction. Nearly 1.25 lakh jobs were created for the young unemployed under the Rajiv Yuva Kiranalu,” he said.

Explaining the welfare programmes being implemented for the empowerment of women of the State, the CM said that the State government is providing interest-free loans to Self Help Group members to make them successful entrepreneurs. Kiran also announced the launch a special programme for the development of scheduled tribe community on the occasion.

Talking about the Olympic success of Hyderabadi sportspersons — shuttler Saina Nehwal and Gagan Narang — the CM announced that his government would build a sports stadium in every Assembly segment of the State to encourage sports in a huge manner.

Recognising the woes of government hospitals in the State for various reasons, the CM announced the provision of adequate funds for developing infrastructure in all the hospitals. The CM also focussed on the controversial issue of fee reimbursement and said that the State had been implementing the scheme with a noble objective of providing higher education to all and needy students of the State. A total of about 25 lakh students are being benefitted by the scheme. Before his speech the CM paid rich tributes to martyrs of wars at Armed forces memorial.

Babu hoists flag

All political parties including the ruling Congress celebrated Independence day with aplomb. While APCC chief Botsa Satyanarayana hoisted the flag at Gandhi Bhavan, TDP chief Chandrababu Naidu and YSR Congress honorary president Vijayamma, BJP president G Kishan Reddy hoisted the flag at their party headquarters.

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Hyderabad: Tete-a-tete with Olympic Medalist Saina Nehwal

Hyderabad, Aug 16: She has redefined and rejuvenated badminton in India with her stupendous performances over the years. Earlier this month, Saina Nehwal, currently ranked 4th in the world, became the first Indian to win a medal in badminton in Olympics, clinching bronze at London. Born on March 17, 1990 at Hisar, the 22-year-old champion is also a Khel Ratna awardee and has many firsts to her credit in Indian badminton history. She holds an impressive record of 193 wins in singles of the 278 matches she has played so far.

Daijiworld caught up with Saina for an exclusive interview at Hyderabad.


Excerpts:


Q: Hi Saina, how do you feel after winning the bronze in London Olympics?

A: Medal is a medal. Olympics is a great event. I am happy with my achievement. I was trying for gold but that couldn’t happen. But I am happy that I won bronze for the country.



























Q: Do have any regrets about not winning the gold?

A: Everyone tries for gold, but unfortunately that didn’t happen. I am so happy winning a medal in badminton for the first time in Olympics.


Q: What exactly were you thinking while facing Chinese player?

A: I was just trying to do my best, of course China is a strong competitor... it’s not so easy to beat them again and again. I was trying to be more patient and trying to implement my strategy. But in the semi-final my strategy did not work. In the play-off matches when I played against other Chinese players my strategy luckily worked.


Q: What has made Chinese players dominate world badminton from past 10-20 years?

A: I think it’s just the way they have been performing from so many years. They have all the champion coaches, they have badminton academy in every city. I think that makes the difference. I think from past so many years they have been producing champions.


Q: Do you think India can reach that level?

A: Indian badminton has improved over the last 5-6 years. So we are a good side. Gopi sir (coach and mentor Pullela Gopichand) is making sure that we train hard, play better and stay fit. China has been doing this from past many years. It's not like China is unbeatable, but it will take sometime. We have to fight hard against the Chinese.


Q: What did Gopi sir say before the crucial Olympic match?

A: He just told me to be focused and confident. In Olympics every medal is important and he just told me to relax. I just kept myself relaxed and my focus was to give my best against the Chinese players and not think about the medal.


Q: What was the reaction of your family?

A: Dad was very happy. For him winning medal is very important. In fact, I had promised a medal for him and he was very happy that I won it. He is really overjoyed and satisfied. My sister, my mother, all are happy. These three people are very important in my life.


Q: What will be your strategy for the upcoming series?

A: No special strategy right now but there's a lot of work to be done. After that, I will be playing the Japan Open and then the Superseries event will start. Of course, there will be a strategy against all the top players. That is common in all tournaments and so I am not so worried about it. It is important that I stay fit and give my best in each tournament.


Q: Apart from badminton do you follow any other sports?

A: Yes, in tennis Roger Federer is my favorite. I respect him a lot and love watching him play. Sachin Tendulkar in cricket and Taufik Hidayat in badminton are my favourites. I respect all these three players. They have changed my life and I get a lot of inspiration from them.


Q: To what extent has your coach Gopichand influenced your badminton career?

A: He plays a very big role. He has been my coach from many years. His hard work has shaped my career. His badminton academy is another plus point. We needed a place to practice and I think the academy came at the right time. I thank all my co-players who played with me and helped me practice... I have achieved all this because of them. Gopi sir is very hard working... he comes to practice at 4.30 - 5 am, plays with us, and stays on till 9 in the night. He is very dedicated and works hard.


Q: What is your message for budding players?

A: Work hard and be prepared for tough training. It's not easy. It is a difficult game. If you really believe in yourself you can do it. If I can do it, you all can do it. Work hard and keep going.

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Hyderabad gears up to host Test amidst Telangana protest plans

Hyderabad: The Rajiv Gandhi International Cricket Stadium at Uppal here is gearing up to host the first test between India and New Zealand, beginning on August 23.

The Hyderabad Cricket Association (HCA) is making all efforts for the smooth conduct of the test, the first to be held under new guidelines of the Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI).

As per the new guidelines, any loss of play time during the day would be compensated by playing under floodlights, said HCA secretary MV Sridhar.

It would be the second Test to be held at the Uppal stadium. The first Test, that also involved New Zealand, was played here in November 2010 and it ended in a draw.

Sridhar told reporters that the Kiwis would be arriving in Hyderabad in two batches August 17 and 18. The Indian team will be landing here August 19.

The HCA will sell 34,000 tickets, though the stadium has a capacity of about 40,000. The capacity has been reduced in view of the ongoing canopy works in one section of the stadium.

When asked about the possible disruption of the game in view of the protest planned by Telangana Rashtra Samithi (TRS) for separate Telangana state, Sridhar said they appeal to all help HCA in successfully hosting the test. "The police will make contingency plans as when the situation unfolds," he said.

HCA president G Vinod said the newly-elected body of the HCA was taking all steps to provide better amenities to the spectators.

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Nethula hopes for debut in home state

Like any cricket-mad boy growing up in the Andhra Pradesh state in India, Tarun Nethula's heroes were the men who played in Hyderabad's Ranji Trophy side.

Regional pride and identity are integral parts of Indian cricket and Nethula dreamt of one day emulating the deeds of local stars like VVS Laxman.

But having just made Hyderabad's under-13 side, Nethula thought he had said goodbye to all that when his father, Sainath, and his late mother, Prameela, decided to emigrate to New Zealand. Sixteen years later, he hopes to do something that seemed unimaginable back then.

Selected in the Black Caps squad of 15, which departs for a two-test tour of India today, the legspinner is in line to make his test debut at Hyderabad's Ranjiv Gandhi International Stadium next Thursday, against a home team that includes Laxman.

"It would be a bit of a fairytale if I do get to play in Hyderabad. It's a big thing and quite a proud moment and a lot of my family still reside there," said Nethula, who was born just out of Hyderabad in Kurnool.

Not used in New Zealand's two test losses against the West Indies, Nethula's chances of playing have been enhanced by the injury-enforced absence of Daniel Vettori.

It would be thrill enough for the 28-year-old Central Districts leggie to make a test debut, let alone in his home state. The only sadness is that his father won't be there.

"Unfortunately my father and my girlfriend both work at schools, so they won't be able to get time off," Nethula said.

"But his father will be there, so hopefully he can make the trip. Many of my dad's siblings are still there as well so I'm hoping that, if I do get a game, we'll have a bit of home crowd support for the Black Caps."

Even so, India is a heck of a place for any touring spinner to play. Never mind one who might be appearing in their first test match.

"Everyone seems to speak of it as being the ultimate challenge but playing international cricket is a challenge regardless of who you're playing against," he said.

"So it's all a learning curve and if you're going to play test cricket, why not take on the best players of spin up front?"

So it's with excitement, rather than trepidation, that Nethula is eyeing the prospect.

"There are a lot of people where I was born that would give an arm or a leg to play international cricket - and a lot more - so it's a great opportunity."


Nethula was expensive in his two one-day international and one first-class appearance in the West Indies, but he said he learnt a lot from the experience.

"They're not the biggest sweepers and when you compare them to the Indian and sub-continental players, who like to sweep and look to use their feet, these [West Indian] boys just stood there and tried to launch it down the ground as soon as you got a touch full.

"For me, it will be crucial [in India] to keep it simple and stay in a good area and then ask the batsmen to do the bulk of the work."

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Laxman to announce his retirement plans today




It is official. India’s stylish batsman, Vangipurapu Venkata Sai Laxman, who scripted many fabulous moments on the field with his willow including that epic 281 against Steve Waugh-led Australians in the historic 2001 Test series, has decided to formally announce his retirement from international cricket on Saturday evening at the Rajiv Gandhi Stadium in Hyderabad.

The 37-year-old Laxman, who threw enough hints about his retirement plans, is expected to give a detailed response to various questions at the media conference he has scheduled this evening. It will be also known then whether he would be playing in the two-Test series against New Zealand starting on August 23 in Hyderabad or not.

The big question remains – will the elegant Hyderabadi just respect the sentiments of his well-wishers that he should play the Tests and then quit the game rather than ahead of the series against New Zealanders itself or not?

By all means, it will be the end of an illustrious career spanning 16 years when Mr. Laxman left an indelible impression on not just Indian cricket but the world cricket itself with his classy displays under pressure.

“I always take pride when my contribution helps the team win rather than enjoy any personal milestones,” was Laxman’s constant reminder throughout his career.

In a way, Laxman’s magnificent career was also symbolic of the fact that if one has the talent and combines that with the desired levels of commitment and hard work, he can go a long way despite coming from a normal middle-class family.

Far away 'Down Under', the Aussies should be heaving a sigh of relief at this decision of Laxman. For the genteel Hyderabadi was at his best against them and his wonderful record of six centuries and 12 fifties from 29 Tests is proof of that when he was blazing away to 167 in the Sydney Test (2000) against an attack which included Glen McGrath, Brett Lee, Damien Fleming and Shane Warne, Azhar, who was watching that on TV at Gymkhana Grounds remarked: "This is the way one has to play against them. And I am not surprised with Laxman's batting. Look at his class and authority, great innings."

For someone who never had a Godfather except a caring maternal uncle Baba Mohan, who used to visit media offices to give updates on the young gifted cricketer’s performances, Laxman redefined, literally the levels of excellence on a cricket field.

Widely perceived as the one who changed the face of Indian cricket itself with that historic knock of 281 against Australians in Kolkata when he pulled the team out of the woods after being forced to follow-on and eventually guide to a memorable victory, Laxman has always been a symbol of dignity – both on and off the field.

The fact that he was never involved in any controversies in his long career was perhaps a gentle reminder of Laxman’s nature itself.

And, it has been a very tough decision for him to be prepared for the retirement plans too as it was obvious that he felt “deeply hurt” by the comments that he is blocking the youngsters’ chances.

Already the Hyderabad cricket Association is planning to install statues of M. Azharuddin and Laxman at the Rajiv Gandhi Stadium very soon as a gesture of appreciation of their "outstanding contribution' to cricket.

Well, it will be sad that the game itself misses the glitter of this wonderful gem of a batsman, coming from the 'City of Pearls'.


Take a bow legend

[Gudavalli]

VVS Laxman honoured by Hyderabad Cricket Association

Hyderabad: Aug 18, 2012

The Hyderabad Cricket Association (HCA) on Saturday honoured the just-retired VVS Laxman by naming the north stand of the Rajiv Gandhi International Stadium in Uppal after the stylish right-hander.

HCA president G Vinod hoped Laxman would continue to play for Hyderabad in the domestic circuit.

"On the day of his retirement, we appeal to him (Laxman) to continue playing for Hyderabad. We wish him all the best for a great future," Vinod said.

"We request him to serve Hyderabad cricket as he has done in the past," he added.

Laxman, who won many a match for India with his wristy elegance including an epic 281 against Australia in Kolkata, on Saturday announced his retirement from international cricket with immediate effect, bringing down the curtains on a glorious career spanning 16 years.

The 37-year-old Laxman, one of the finest batsmen in contemporary cricket, said that he felt it was the right time to bid adieu to the game which he played with "great pride for the country".

Laxman made it clear that he will continue to play for Hyderabad till this year.

"It was a dream for me to play for India since childhood and I am extremely thankful to the Almighty for giving me the opportunity to serve my country."

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Special to play Test at home: Pragyan Ojha

HYDERABAD: The retirement of Anil Kumble and Harbhajan Singh's apparent loss of form has forced Team India to look out for a fresh pair of spinners. In left-armer Pragyan Ojha and offie R Ashwin, India seem to have found another pair of spinners who could stay the course. The duo did well against the West Indies in the last home series and Ojha is looking forward to another good show against New Zealand in the forthcoming Test series. The 25-year-old spoke to TOI about how he is gearing up for the challenges of the season.

Excerpts:

A home Test match to start off the season. Your impressions.

This is a very important series for the team and also for me. It is always special playing in front of one's home crowd. As I am familiar with the conditions and the wicket here, I am looking forward to a good Test. It has been a while since I have played a Test (last Test was against the West Indies in Mumbai in November 2011) and hence I am really keen on playing here. The crowd support too is a key factor in one's performance and I am confident of doing well.

What do you think went wrong in the last Test series Down Under?

There are always ups and downs in one's life and the same is true with a team. I feel it was a bad phase for Team India as we didn't do as well as we were expected to. But this is a new series and a new season. On top of it, it is a home series and we have always done well at home. The players are used to the conditions here and hence Team India definitely has the upperhand against the Kiwis. In fact, we are playing almost 10 Tests at home this season and I am eagerly looking forward to it.

How did you fare in the recent ODI series against Sri Lanka?

I got to play just two matches. In fact, I was playing an ODI after two years. I have made some mistakes and have learnt from those. I am working hard on overcoming those shortcomings. The Test series is important as I want to perform consistently and earn back my place in the ODI team.

You and Ashwin seem to complement each other well. What is the secret?

In the sub-continent, the spinners are expected to lead and give the team the much-needed edge over the visiting teams. As we are of the same age, we understand each other well and complement one another. He is a good partner and it is nice to have someone like him bowl from the other end. In the Test series against the West Indies last year, we forged a really good partnership. We took 42 wickets which show how well we do as a team.

Your goals for the season?

I am aiming for consistency. I want to start the season well, but there are no targets as such. I want to take it session by session and match by match.

[Gudavalli]

Gagan, Saina have Rio Olympics in sight

Even as they shuttle from one felicitation programme to another since returning from London, Gagan Narang and Saina Nehwal have already set their sights on improving their performance at the 2016 Olympic Games in Rio de Janeiro.

Feted in the capital on Friday by a sponsor of India's Olympic contingent that returned with an unprecedented six medals from the just concluded London Games, the duo from Hyderabad looked like they were enjoying every bit of it.

What was reassuring for their fans was that both had the next Olympic Games on their mind.

"The colour of the medal is not very bright. I have to change the colour," Narang, who won the 10 metre air rifle bronze in London, quipped.

On a more serious note, he said: "Looking at where I am, it should be the new starting point. I will have new destinations - Asian Games, Commonwealth Games (both in 2014), Rio Olympics...

"Hopefully I will be making everybody listen to the national anthem," said the 29-year-old marksman.

Nehwal, whose bronze in London was India's first ever badminton medal in the Olympics, promised to do whatever it took to maintain her position in a sport ruthlessly dominated by the Chinese shuttlers.

"I'm glad I won India's first badminton medal in Olympics. I will keep working hard and it will give me the motivation to win many more medals. I'll be more confident in the next Olympics," said the 22-year-old shuttler, the only non-Chinese in the women's top five.

"I narrowly missed a medal in Beijing and could not sleep properly for many days, so depressed I was. This time I played well under pressure.

"The next 7-8 years that I play, I have to face the Chinese players. It will be Saina v China … I hope to stay fit and continue in the same manner," she added.

Boxer M.C. Mary Kom, who won the women's 51kg bronze in London, cited her own example and said there was no reason why Nehwal could not continue even after her marriage.

"I told Saina one day you'll marry and have kid and it was still possible to continue. All it takes is will power and support from your family and husband," said the 29-year-old mother of two.

Shooter Vijay Kumar, who won the 25m rapid fire pistol silver in London, was also present on the occasion along with wrestlers Sushil Kumar and Yogeshwar Dutt.

Kumar won the silver in the 66kg freestyle while friend Dutt, still sporting a black eye, returned with the bronze in the 60kg freestyle category.

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North stand at Uppal to be named after Laxman

The Hyderabad Cricket Association (HCA) today honoured the just-retired VVS Laxman by naming the north stand of the Rajiv Gandhi International Stadium in Uppal after the stylish right-hander. HCA president G Vinod hoped Laxman would continue to play for Hyderabad in the domestic


circuit.
"On the day of his retirement, we appeal to him (Laxman) to continue playing for Hyderabad. We wish him all the best for a great future," Vinod said.

"We request him to serve Hyderabad cricket as he has done in the past," he added.

Laxman, who won many a match for India with his wristy elegance including an epic 281 against Australia in Kolkata, today announced his retirement from international cricket with immediate effect, bringing down the curtains on a glorious career spanning 16 years.

The 37-year-old Laxman, one of the finest batsmen in contemporary cricket, said that he felt it was the right time to bid adieu to the game which he played with "great pride for the country".

Laxman made it clear that he will continue to play for Hyderabad till this year.

"It was a dream for me to play for India since childhood and I am extremely thankful to the Almighty for giving me the opportunity to serve my country."

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Laxman should have got more recognition: Srikkanth

Chennai: Paying glowing tributes to VVS Laxman, who quit international cricket yesterday, selection committee chairman Krishnamachari Srikkanth today said that the just-retired batsman should have got more recognition for his match-winning performances for the country.

Laxman yesterday decided to walk into the sunset with immediate effect despite being picked in the Indian squad for the two-match Test series against New Zealand starting at his hometown in Hyderabad on August 23 and Srikkanth said he respected his decision to retire.

"Laxman is one of the greatest cricketers. He has won so many matches for India. He has won tremendous matches for India from no win situations. He should have got more recognition for his performances. More credit should go to him for his great performances,"

"It is all in records as to how he had played in Sri Lanka, Australia and New Zealand. I respect his personal decision and wish him the very best," he added.

Srikkanth described Laxman as a "gentleman cricketer" and a "person of character".

"He is the best gentleman cricketer that I have seen. He is a thoroughbred gentleman and soft spoken person with great character. He is very well mannered," said the former Indian opener.