JOHANNESBURG: South Africa’s first black Test captain, Siyamthanda ‘Siya’ Kolisi, brushed off racial tensions that have marred his appointment, vowing Wednesday to lead the national team to victory.
In his first public appearance since being named Bok captain two days ago, he told journalists in Johannesburg that he wanted to focus on the game and not on the political and racial narratives around his historic appointment.
“I can’t focus on what those people are saying, I can only focus on people that really matter to me and who support me,” Kolisi said.
“Coach ‘Rassie’ (Johan Erasmus) is not a politician and I’m also not a politician.”
Kolisi this week became the first black to be named South Africa Test captain, ending 127 years of white skippers since the national team debuted.
Controversy has shadowed the 26-year-old flanker’s appointment to the prized position with some on social media and in rugby circles seeing his position as a political appointment.
Post-apartheid government and rugby bosses have battled to enforce racial transformation in a team that once barred blacks.
At least 50 percent of the team at the 2019 Rugby World Cup in Japan will be black after a deal was struck between the ruling African National Congress party and rugby officials.
Kolisi said he believed his promotion was genuine and based on his skills.
He pointed out that he and coach Erasmus had known each other since he was 18.
“For the coach to show this much faith in me, I’m just going to give everything I can and do my best and make sure that I deliver.
“I can only control what I can do on the field.”
South African rugby has historically been entrenched in racial politics, with the sport viewed as predominantly white.
Blacks were barred from representing the country at rugby during apartheid and progress toward a team reflecting the 92 percent black population of the country has been frustratingly slow.
Although only eight percent of South Africans are white, they have dominated provincial and national rugby teams.
Racial tensions reignited off the field this month when TV analyst and former black Springbok Ashwin Willemse accused two former white internationals of being “patronizing.”
Willemse stormed off a live Super Rugby show after saying Naas Botha and Nick Mallett, who also coached South Africa, were “undermining” him.
The Springboks play England in Johannesburg (June 9), Bloemfontein (June 16) and Cape Town (June 23).
South Africa’s first black rugby captain Kolisi brushes off racial tensions
South Africa’s first black rugby captain Kolisi brushes off racial tensions
- ‘Siya’ Kolisi told journalists in Johannesburg that he wanted to focus on the game and not on the political and racial narratives around his historic appointment.
- Racial tensions reignited off the field this month when TV analyst and former black Springbok Ashwin Willemse accused two former white internationals of being ‘patronizing.’
Najmul to lead Bangladesh in Pakistan-hosted Champions Trophy
- Key players Liton Das and former all-rounder Shakib Al Hasan not part of the squad
- ODI Champions Trophy tournament takes place in Pakistan and Dubai from February 19
DHAKA: Najmul Hossain Shanto will captain Bangladesh in the Champions Trophy in Pakistan and Dubai next month, the cricket board said Sunday, with key players including Liton Das missing the cut.
Former star all-rounder Shakib Al Hasan is also missing from the 15-man squad for the one-day international tournament.
The Champions Trophy takes place in Pakistan and Dubai from February 19 with Bangladesh placed in Group A alongside India, Pakistan and New Zealand.
Bangladesh are ninth in the ICC ODI rankings.
They play their opener against India in Dubai on February 20.
Bangladesh squad: Nazmul Hossain Shanto (capt), Soumya Sarkar, Tanzid Hasan, Towhid Hridoy, Mushfiqur Rahim, Mohammad Mahmudullah Riyad, Jaker Ali, Mehidy Hasan Miraz, Rishad Hossain, Taskin Ahmed, Mustafizur Rahman, Parvez Hossain Emon, Nasum Ahmed, Tanzim Hasan Sakib, Nahid Rana.
Australian Open: Olympic champ Zheng Qinwen starts her bid for another final on a rainy Day 1
- They had just finished the pre-match formalities when play was delayed by a few minutes so that the roof could be closed
- It was one of the matches that continued under cover when tournament organizers suspended play on all outside courts until later in the afternoon
MELBOURNE: Zheng Qinwen’s tennis resume is quite different from what it was when she showed up at the Australian Open a full year ago. No matter everything she accomplished in 2024 — a runner-up finish at Melbourne Park; an Olympic gold medal for China — she felt jitters before entering Rod Laver Arena on Sunday.
After overcoming some hiccups late in the opening set of her first-round match on a stormy Day 1 at the season’s first major tennis tournament, Zheng came through with a 7-6 (3), 6-1 victory against Anca Todoni, a 20-year-old qualifier from Romania who has won one Grand Slam match in her career.
“Actually, I feel really nervous,” said Zheng, who is seeded No. 5. “I started to feel nervous already since yesterday, ‘cause I felt special emotion for the Australian Open. ... I really like it here.”
As well she should.
It was 12 months ago on Melbourne’s hard courts that Zheng made it all the way to the final before losing to Aryna Sabalenka. The two-time champion was due to begin her title defense as the No. 1 seed on Sunday night against 2017 US Open title winner Sloane Stephens, before Alexander Zverev, the men’s No. 2 seed, faced Lucas Pouille.
Before her run in Australia last January, Zheng had only played in eight major tournaments, making one quarterfinal. Her big-hitting breakthrough opened a season in which she wound up with a gold draped around her neck at the Paris Games in August.
The 22-year-old Zheng’s power-based game is best suited for hard courts, and playing indoors doesn’t hurt, either, so she eventually was quite comfortable against Todoni under a closed retractable roof, while thunder and lightning and a serious downpour suspended action on the courts that can’t be covered.
Still, Zheng frittered away set points while serving for the opener at 5-4, then was forced to save set points for Todoni later. Afterward, Zheng said that being nervous usually makes her focus better, but this time, it didn’t make “me play my best tennis out there.”
Maybe that’s because it was her first match of the season. Still, she was good enough on this day.
The second set was more one-sided, and Todoni took a medical timeout for treatment on her lower back after three games.
Zheng was among only a handful of players able to complete matches in the early going at what is now a 15-day tournament after a Sunday start was instituted last year. That extra time, which spreads out the first round across three days, could be particularly helpful this week, when Monday’s packed program already included matches for Novak Djokovic, Jannik Sinner, Carlos Alcaraz, Coco Gauff and Iga Swiatek.
Other winners Sunday afternoon included No. 14 Mirra Andreeva, a 17-year-old from Russia; No. 18 Donna Vekic and No. 20 Arthur Fils.
“To be able to play a match and to finish a match with a roof, it’s much more easy than ... to stop with the rain,” said Fils, who eliminated Otto Virtanen of Finland 3-6, 7-6 (4), 6-4, 6-4. “So, yeah, it’s a nice treatment.”
New Zealand recall proven trio for Pakistan-hosted Champions Trophy
- New Zealand recall Kane Williamson, Devon Conway and Lockie Ferguson for upcoming tournament
- Key trio were unavailable for home ODI series against Sri Lanka due to offshore T20 commitments
Wellington: Seasoned players Kane Williamson, Devon Conway and Lockie Ferguson were recalled Sunday to an experienced New Zealand squad to contest the Champions Trophy one-day tournament.
The key trio were unavailable for the just-completed home ODI series against Sri Lanka because of offshore T20 commitments.
Batters Williamson and Conway have been playing in South Africa’s T20 league while pace bowler Ferguson is involved in Australia’s Big Bash competition.
Ben Sears was also selected for the ICC tournament co-hosted by Pakistan and UAE, having missed the 2-1 series win over Sri Lanka with a knee injury.
It will be the first senior ICC event for Sears and fellow pace bowlers Will O’Rourke and Nathan Smith.
Coach Gary Stead will oversee a squad he said also boasted experience and depth.
“We’re currently blessed with a lot of quality players and that certainly made for some challenging selection discussions,” Stead said.
Spin bowler Mitchell Santner will lead New Zealand at a major event for the first time, after being named full-time white ball captain in December.
Santner, former skipper Williamson and wicketkeeper Tom Latham were all part of the New Zealand squad for the last edition of the Champions Trophy, in England and Wales in 2017.
New Zealand will contest the tournament’s opening match against Pakistan in Karachi on February 19, followed by pool games against Bangladesh and India.
New Zealand squad: Mitchell Santner (capt), Will Young, Devon Conway, Rachin Ravindra, Kane Williamson, Mark Chapman, Daryl Mitchell, Tom Latham, Glenn Phillips, Michael Bracewell, Nathan Smith, Matt Henry, Lockie Ferguson, Ben Sears, Will O’Rourke
Boxing Magazine relaunch: A historic celebration at London’s Old Royal Naval College
- First published in the 1920s, Boxing Magazine has cemented its reputation as the definitive source of news, analysis, and profiles in the world of boxing
- “This magazine is more than a publication; it is a bridge between tradition and modernity," says Saudi entertainment authority chief, the man behind the acquisition of the mag
LONDON: The historic Old Royal Naval College was the perfect backdrop for a momentous occasion: the relaunch of Boxing Magazine, a publication steeped in tradition and renowned for its in-depth coverage of the sweet science.
Established in 1922, Boxing Magazine has chronicled the evolution of boxing for more than a century, becoming a trusted voice for fans and insiders alike.
Now, under the stewardship of Turki Al-Alshaikh, adviser to the Saudi Royal Court and head of the Kingdom’s General Entertainment Authority, the magazine is poised for a bold new era.
First published in the early 20th century, Boxing Magazine quickly cemented its reputation as the definitive source of news, analysis and profiles in the world of boxing. Over the decades, it has covered legendary bouts, celebrated champions, and documented the sport’s growth on a global scale. From the roaring 1920s to the digital age, the magazine has adapted to changing times while maintaining its commitment to quality journalism.
Saturday’s relaunch event was a tribute to this legacy, with guests including prominent figures from the boxing community, sports media, and entertainment industry. Attendees marveled at an exclusive exhibition of iconic magazine covers and memorabilia, offering a nostalgic journey through boxing’s storied past. Al-AlShaikh, who attended the event, highlighted the magazine’s potential to unite global boxing enthusiasts.
Visionary leadership
The acquisition of Boxing Magazine by Al-AlShaikh is a significant turning point for the publication. Known for his transformative work as GEA head, Al-Alshaikh has been instrumental in fostering cultural and sporting advances in the Kingdom. His presence at the event underscored his commitment to elevating the magazine’s profile and broadening its global reach.
In his remarks, Al-AlShaikh emphasized his passion for boxing and the role of sport in bridging cultures. “This magazine is more than a publication; it is a bridge between tradition and modernity, a testament to the enduring power of sport to inspire and unite,” he said.
As part of the event, special awards were presented to recognize outstanding achievements in the boxing world. Billy Dib was honored with The Ring Comeback of the Year award, while Daniel Dubois received The Ring Knockout of the Year award for his stunning KO of Anthony Joshua.
Saudi Vision 2030
The relaunch of Boxing Magazine aligns seamlessly with Saudi Vision 2030, the Kingdom’s ambitious blueprint for economic and cultural transformation. By investing in global cultural and sporting assets, Saudi Arabia aims to establish itself as a hub for innovation, creativity and entertainment. The reinvigoration of a historic brand like Boxing Magazine reflects this commitment, showing how tradition and progress can harmonize.
Under Al-AlShaikh’s leadership, the magazine is expected to expand its reach to new audiences, particularly in the Middle East and Asia, regions where boxing is experiencing rapid growth. Plans include bilingual editions, interactive digital platforms, a dedicated app, and printed versions of the magazine. These initiatives aim to celebrate boxing’s heritage while nurturing its future.
Bright future ahead
As Boxing Magazine enters this exciting new chapter, its relaunch at the Old Royal Naval College symbolizes the enduring appeal of boxing as a sport and cultural phenomenon. With Al-AlShaikh at the helm, the magazine is well positioned to honor its storied past while embracing the opportunities of the future.
For boxing enthusiasts and casual readers alike, the relaunch promises a revitalized publication that stays true to its roots while setting new standards in sports journalism. With its rich history and visionary leadership, Boxing Magazine is poised to remain a cornerstone of the boxing world for generations to come.
Caroline Dubois dominates and retains title but bout ends in technical draw after head clash
- Dubois (10-0-1) was in full control when the referee called a timeout. The ringside doctor ruled that the 36-year-old Camara (14-4-1) could not continue
SHEFFIELD, England: Caroline Dubois scored a first-round knockdown and retained her WBC lightweight title against Jessica Camara despite the bout ending in a technical draw due to an accidental clash of heads Saturday.
Dubois, whose older brother Daniel is the IBF heavyweight champion, dominated in her first title defense, which ended just after the bell rang to start the third round.
Camara’s right eye was swollen from punches and the Canadian was bleeding from a cut above her left eye — the result of an accidental clash of heads in the second round.
“I don’t think she wanted it,” Dubois said. “The blood wasn’t coming in her face, it was coming around the side of her face — she didn’t want it, man.”
Dubois (10-0-1) was in full control when the referee called a timeout. The ringside doctor ruled that the 36-year-old Camara (14-4-1) could not continue.
Because it was under four rounds, the bout was declared a technical draw.
Dubois immediately called for a fight against WBO champion Terri Harper.
“Terri Harper, that’s who I want,” she said.
Dubois said she wants to be the undisputed lightweight champion by the end of 2025. Beatriz Ferreira of Brazil holds the IBF belt, and the WBA belt is vacant.
Shane McGuigan, Dubois’ trainer, said she has the talent to win titles at multiple weight classes.
“She’s the best female fighter on the planet, by a mile,” McGuigan said.
