In preparation for the fifth season of the Tennis Premier League (TPL) powered by Clear, the eight franchises emerged from the auction after assembling competitive rosters with a mix of fascinating talent from across the globe and Indian players during the event conducted at the Sahara Star Hotel in Mumbai.
Sumit Nagal, the current All-India Tennis Association (AITA) Hyderabad Strikers' Strategic Picks No. 1 men's singles player, was introduced to the league ahead of Season 5 of the TPL as the marquee player and became the most expensive pick at the auction. Despite stiff competition from other franchises for the signature of India's star tennis player, he was acquired by the Ramku Patgirowned Gujarat Panthers for Rs18.5 lakhs, thanks to decisive bidding by the Panthers' celebrity ambassador, Arjun Kapoor.
Additionally, the Gujarat Panthers secured Karman Kaur Thandi for Rs 8.5 lakhs, a player with three singles ITF titles to her name. The Panthers also added Mukund Sasikumar to their roster, demonstrating a knack for savvy business by picking up the up-and-coming Indian player.
Hyderabad Strikers' Strategic Picks
Defending champions Hyderabad Strikers, supported by the graceful Rakul Preet Singh, displayed a keen strategy during the auction. The most expensive acquisition for the ENN Sport-owned franchise was Ellen Perez at Rs 14 lakhs. Perez boasts five doubles titles on the WTA Tour, two doubles titles on the WTA Challenger Tour, and two singles and 19 doubles titles on the ITF Circuit. The Australian player will bring a wealth of experience and talent to the Hyderabad team, as they aim for their third consecutive TPL title. They also retained the services of Nikki Poonacha, who played a pivotal role in the team's success last season. The Strikers' roster was completed with the addition of Saketh Myneni, a recipient of the prestigious Arjuna Award in 2017 who represents India in the Davis Cup.
This story is from the {{IssueName}} edition of {{MagazineName}}.
Start your 7-day Magzter GOLD free trial to access thousands of curated premium stories, and 9,000+ magazines and newspapers.
Already a subscriber ? Sign In
This story is from the {{IssueName}} edition of {{MagazineName}}.
Start your 7-day Magzter GOLD free trial to access thousands of curated premium stories, and 9,000+ magazines and newspapers.
Already a subscriber? Sign In
ICONIC STADIUM
From the ancient grandeur of the Roman Colosseum to the cuttingedge design of Beijing's Bird's Nest, stadiums around the world hold rich histories and enduring legacies. These structures not only host epic events but also reflect the cultural, political, and architectural advancements of their eras.
JUNIOR TALENT RARELY GUARANTEES ELITE SUCCESS
Dr Tania Cassidy, is a professor of sports coaching at the School of Physical Education, Sport, and Exercise Sciences at the University of Otago, New Zealand. Her research focus is pedagogy, and she uses educational theories to explore the interconnections between coach, athlete, content, and context. During the Sports Champ Talk Show with Chief Editor Bhushan Thakur, she spoke about talent identification, luck factors, and the early and later bloomers in sports. Excerpts:
PURVA EYES GLOBAL SUCCESS
With over 50 medals to her name, including the prestigious Shiv Chhatrapati Award, Purva Kinare shares her journey in Yoga and her hopes for representing India in future international competitions.
Ayush Shukla eyes Olympic dream
After claiming India’s first-ever bronze in the World Junior Taekwondo Championship, 17-year-old Ayush Shukla from Ahmedabad is now looking ahead to bigger challenges, with the ultimate goal of qualifying for the Olympics.
SCALING HEIGHTS
Shreya Nankar, a 22-year-old from Pune, has excelled in wall climbing and academics, earning over 40 medals in national competitions while pursuing her master’s degree at Arizona University, USA. Recently honoured with the Shiv Chhatrapati Award, she continues to inspire with her exceptional achievements.
Channelise your energy in the proper manner
Tell us about your childhood and liking for sports at an early age
India's fabulous fifth
India secured their fifth Asian Champions Trophy Hockey title with a 1-0 win over China, extending their record in the prestigious tournament. Jugraj Singh's crucial goal brought home the victory, while captain Harmanpreet Singh led the team to their sixth overall title, capping off a dominant campaign.
WINNING TOGETHER
Dr Deepa Malik, former president of the Paralympic Committee of India and a silver medall at the Paralympic Games underscores the pivotal role of collective efforts, meticulous plannin talent discovery, and international exposure in India's remarkable performance at the Pa Paralympics.
KAPIL'S BRONZE BLITZ
Triumph Amidst The Roar
MAKING OF A CHAMPION
Becoming an Olympic gold medallist is no easy feat. For coaches, the process is a long and arduous journey that demands immense dedication, perseverance, and skill.
