Current Affairs - Sports

Odisha Warriors emerged victorious in the inaugural Women’s Hockey India League (HIL), defeating JSW Soorma Hockey Club 2-1 in the final held in Ranchi. The tournament highlighted exceptional performances, with Yibbi Jansen of Odisha Warriors being one of the top scorers. Other notable players included Jyoti (Player of the Tournament) and Savita Punia (Best Goalkeeper), both from JSW Soorma Hockey Club. Odisha’s victory signifies their outstanding teamwork and determination in the competition.

Indian Oil Corporation (IOC) is the bronze sponsor for the 38th National Games, which will be hosted in Uttarakhand for the first time. The event features "Mouli," the mascot inspired by the Monal, Uttarakhand's state bird, and the tagline "Sankalp Se Shikhar Tak," symbolizing a journey from resolution to achievement. The sponsorship highlights Indian Oil's commitment to promoting sports and national events in India.

The 5th Khelo India Winter Games commenced in Ladakh at Leh’s NDS Ice Hockey Stadium. This event saw participation from over 400 athletes across India in sports such as ice hockey and ice skating. The opening ceremony featured cultural performances, including Jabro by the changpas, and even foreign visitors participated in the celebrations.

Karnataka clinched their fifth Vijay Hazare Trophy title by defeating Vidarbha by 36 runs in the final held on January 19, 2025, at the Kotambi Stadium in Vadodara. Anchored by key contributions from Ravichandran Smaran, who scored 101 runs, and a match-winning cameo by Abhinav Manohar with 79 runs, Karnataka posted a formidable total of 348/6. This victory adds to their previous titles in 2013-14, 2014-15, 2017-18, and 2019-20, cementing their status as one of the most successful teams in domestic cricket.

The men’s elite race at the 20th Mumbai Marathon 2025 was won by Berhane Tesfay, representing Eritrea. This marathon, held at the Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj Terminus and flagged off by Maharashtra Governor C.P. Radhakrishnan, showcased exceptional talent. Alongside Eritrea's victory in the men’s category, Kenya’s Joyce Chepkemoi Tele triumphed in the women’s elite race. The event included categories for differently-abled individuals and senior citizens and also served as a qualifier for the World Athletics Championships, highlighting its global relevance.