Author: Gargi Raut

The essence of sports is to remain dynamic and never stagnant. If it ever reaches a static point, it ceases to be a sport. Similarly, covering sports has to be just as dynamic, fast-paced and spontaneous. Just as many sports are played on a field, they should be covered on ground. Sports journalism is the bridge between athletes and ardent sports fans who want to know what is happening on and off the field. Sports journalists are their ears and eyes. To give fans a sense of what is happening on the field, journalists must be present at the venues.…

As we approach the conclusion of 2023, it becomes evident that this year has a significant place in the annals of Indian sport, largely due to the remarkable achievements of Neeraj Chopra – the nation’s standout athlete. Widely hailed as India’s Golden Boy, Chopra has etched his name in the history of Indian sport, emerging as an unparalleled figure in track and field. He stands as the epitome of excellence, placing him among the elite in India’s rich sporting tapestry. Despite his humble demeanour, Chopra’s accomplishments speak volumes, solidifying his status as India’s preeminent athlete. Embarking on his journey in…

In September, Danielle McGahey, of Australian descent but settled in Canada, became the first transgender cricketer to play an international game against Brazil. On Wednesday, after an extensive nine-month consultation process, the International Cricket Council (ICC) banned male-to-female transgender athletes who have been through male puberty from participating in international women’s cricket. The decision follows in the footsteps of many international sports organisations including World Athletics, World Aquatics, World Rugby Union and the world cycling’s governing body. Following the ban, McGahey took to social media to announce her retirement. “I promise I will not stop fighting for equality for us…

Ever since he was a little kid, Virat Kohli idolised Sachin Tendulkar, the charismatic beacon of achievement. When Kohli was new on the scene and had started to show signs of greatness, it was Tendulkar who predicted that Kohli would break his records. 11 years later, on the 15th of November, at the iconic Wankhede, the same day and the same stadium where Tendulkar played his last Test match, Kohli unfolded history, stroke-by-stroke. Watching his record-breaking innings was nothing short of surreal. There are only a handful of days in history that give you moments like these. Kohli’s hundred…

Gargi Raut at Eden Gardens, Kolkata “Kohli… Kohli…” Virat Kohli is one of those rare human beings on the planet, who spent his 35th birthday like no one else could. Engulfed by deafening chants of his name, and thousands of people lined up, hoping and praying for nothing but his 49th ODI century. After fans had poured all their love and affection for him throughout his career, they wanted only one thing in return. For him to score a hundred, on his birthday, and equal Sachin Tendulkar’s record that once seemed untouchable. Tendulkar, in the eyes of the crowd, wasn’t…

Virat Kohli’s cricket journey has been nothing short of incredible. His career is true testament to not just his extraordinary talent, but also his unwavering determination and unparalleled passion for cricket. He went from being a young, promising cricketer to becoming one of the greatest batters to have played the game. Kohli’s unbelievable work ethic, unyielding commitment to fitness and his insatiable hunger for success have set new benchmarks for excellence. His batting prowess, coupled with his leadership and aggression, has made him an icon. Through the years, we’ve witnessed many facets of Kohli. From a dejected, lovelorn player to…

Delhi and fog are an old combination. But this winter, things seem to be getting worse. And with the Arjun Jaitley stadium being one of the 10 venues for the ongoing World Cup, international players are having a hard time dealing with the smog. The parali [crop-stubble] burning in the neighbouring states, coupled with the onset of winter, has caused a hazardous atmosphere in Delhi. Usually the smog is at its worst before the sun rises and after the sun sets. But this time, even if you step outside your homes at 3 in the afternoon, there is a thick…

Having grown up in a fairly cricket-oriented family, I was always connected to the sport. There isn’t a time when I don’t recall playing cricket. I vividly remember being glued to the TV on March 26, 2016, with Virat Kohli in prime form. Just like a million other kids who must have been inspired by the way that Kohli had commanded his innings, something changed inside me too. You couldn’t help but feel his raw, unbridled passion through the TV screen. That is the power that Kohli holds. On that day, it seemed like destiny was putty in Kohli’s hands.…

Eden Gardens as we all know it is a boiling pot of history and anticipation. The iconic venue has witnessed uncountable historic moments and legendary performances, etching itself as one of the best venues in cricket history. The stadium is an embodiment of the passion and enthusiasm of the people of Kolkata. And it is the people who have elevated the stadium to more than just a cricket arena. Eden Gardens isn’t merely a cricket stadium, it’s a cultural institution, a place where generations of cricket lovers have gathered to witness history. And in light of the ongoing ODI World…

An artist once wrote a lyric that said “Never trust an elevator if it rises fast, it can’t last” Perhaps the lyric most resonates with England’s quick rise and fall in recent times. The defending champions are now in such a state, you can’t help but be sorry for them. Quick success struck, and England is now lovesick for a template it once proudly claimed. England took all their chances and it worked for as long as luck would allow it. When the English players were in the thick of their success, they knew that the dangerous, always on the…