Current Affairs - Sports

Union Home Minister Amit Shah inaugurated the Khanikar Stadium in Dibrugarh, Assam, which is set to become the state’s largest multi-sports hub. The facility aims to host regional and national sports events, enhance sports tourism, and provide expanded opportunities for athletes at the state level. This development represents a significant step toward modern sports infrastructure in Assam, promoting youth engagement and supporting the state’s vision of nurturing athletic talent. The location in Dibrugarh positions it strategically for regional accessibility and long-term sports development initiatives.

Abhishek Sharma achieved a remarkable feat by scoring a 14-ball fifty against New Zealand, making it the second-fastest T20I half-century for India. He finished unbeaten on 68 off just 20 balls, contributing significantly to India’s eight-wicket victory while chasing 154. Alongside key performances from Suryakumar Yadav and Jasprit Bumrah, Sharma’s explosive innings helped India secure a 3-0 lead in the five-match T20I series. This innings highlights his aggressive batting style and capability to change games quickly in the shortest format of cricket.

Amelia Valverde, a football coach from Costa Rica, has been appointed as the head coach of the Indian senior women’s football team by the All India Football Federation. She joins the team, popularly known as the Blue Tigresses, in Antalya, Türkiye, as part of their preparations for the AFC Women’s Asian Cup Australia 2026. Valverde will work closely with the existing coaching staff to enhance team performance and tactical readiness. Her appointment brings international experience and recognition, including being named the CONCACAF Female Coach of the Year in 2016, which highlights her credentials and coaching excellence.

Roorkee served as the venue for the virtual inauguration of the National Paralympic Powerlifting Championship in January 2026 by Chief Minister Pushkar Singh Dhami. The event highlighted India’s growing achievements in para-sports and celebrated the contributions of divyang athletes on the global stage. During the inauguration, the past decade was described as a golden chapter for Indian sports, reflecting significant progress and international success. India’s medal achievements at major events such as the Paris 2024 Paralympics and the Asian Youth Para Games 2025 further underscore the country’s commitment to inclusive sports development and excellence.

The 6th edition of the Khelo India Winter Games was in Leh and Ladakh, highlighting the region’s growing importance as a hub for winter sports in India. The Games were conducted across three venues—NDS Stadium, Guphuks Pond, and the Ladakh Scouts Regimental Centre—providing world-class facilities for ice sports. More than 1,000 participants from over 21 states and Union Territories took part, including 472 athletes. A major highlight of this edition was the introduction of Olympic figure skating for the first time, alongside events such as speed skating, short track skating, and ice hockey.