World’s No. 3 Withdraws From India Open, Citing Delhi’s ‘Unhealthy’ Condition
Delhi’s extreme pollution is now affecting the India Open. Anders Antonsen, the world’s No. 3 badminton player, withdrew his name from the India Open, citing the suffocating situation due to dense smog and pollution. Before the withdrawal, world No. 2 badminton star Mia Blichfeldt had staunchly criticized the unhealthy, unsanitary, and polluted environment at the Indira Gandhi Stadium in the capital city. Antonsen’s move towards the withdrawal resulted in a fine of USD 5,000. The Danish badminton star took to Instagram to state the decision to withdraw. In a detailed post he stated, “Many people may ask why I have withdrawn from the India Open three times in a row. I believe the tournament should not be held there at all because the environment is extremely unhealthy and pollution levels are far too high. When the World Championships take place in summer, the conditions will be much better. Withdrawing from the India Open has cost me nearly 4.5 million Indian rupees in fines.” Not even a day before this announcement, Denmark star Mia Blichfeldt raised her concerns about Delhi’s unhealthy conditions after she reached the India Open. The World No. 2 further urged the Badminton World Federation (BWF) to intervene in this matter. She stated, “The environment here is extremely unclean and unhealthy for players. That’s why many athletes are practicing while wearing gloves, caps, and extra layers of clothing. This is far from ideal, as players need freedom of movement on the court.” She further emphasised that the birds were flying inside the stadium during practice sessions; the defecations were found on the courts as well. She, along with Canada’s Michelle Li and former world champion Ratchanok Intanon, made serious allegations about the condition of Delhi. They emphasised the absence of basic amenities in the stadium, like heaters. While amongst these issues, Delhi’s pollution took the central stage of discussion.
Virat Surpasses Sachin and Creates Unique Record
The King Kohli has yet again thrashed another record and etched his name in the history books. He surpassed Sachin Tendulkar to become the highest run-scorer in One Day Internationals in India. This feat was achieved in the second match of the India vs. New Zealand ODI series. While he equalised with Tendulkar’s record on the opening match with 93 runs, the boundary with the first delivery marked the new record. While he reached the No. 1 spot amongst the Indian players, he remains the second in the world, etching his name just behind the Australian legend Ricky Ponting. Kohli has initiated a streak of records under his name. This week alone against New Zealand, he achieved a rare feat of kicking the milestone to become the fastest player to reach 28,000 international runs in history. The King has toppled the Tendulkar record rather comfortably by reaching this milestone in just 624 innings. Kohli made a comeback after July 2021 to his known ranks by reaching the No. 1 spot in the Men’s ODI Batting Rankings on 14th January by dethroning Rohit Sharma. Needless to say, this is a mere initiation of a new genre of Kohli, as on another recent collection of records, he added five consecutive 50-plus runs in ODIs.
Hiroshi Ibusuki of East Bengal To Return To Australian Club
After East Bengal, Hiroshi Ibusuki is likely to return to Australia A League. Amidst the uncertainty surrounding Hiroshi’s tenure in East Bengal this new information has shocked the football fraternity. East Bengal has yet to release any official statement for the footballer. However, it is unofficially confirmed that the player will leave. The Japanese footballer initially flourished in the club, however, the momentum faded after the Super Cup. The management was planning to release Hiroshi for quite a long time, also the uncertainty surrounding ISL further complicated the future of footballers. Hamid has also bid farewell to the Kolkata giants. East Bengal management has also officially released him from his contract. From that point onwards, Ibusuki’s departure was firmly on the cards of the management. During this phase, he has already informed about his move to an Australian club. Since this is a mutual termination, there will be no transfer fee involved. However, the striker is understood to be securing a lucrative personal contract. However, Hiroshi’s appearance to an A League club has sent shockwaves towards management because his declining performance has been a constant worry for the Red Yellow Brigade.
