sports 38 - The Latremie Post

Palestinian Hamas-aligned journalist Mustafa Ayash arrested at Netherlands airport – report

**Palestinian Hamas-aligned Journalist Mustafa Ayash Arrested at Netherlands Airport**

Mustafa Ayash, a Palestinian journalist reportedly aligned with Hamas, was arrested at a Dutch airport. According to reports, Ayash is set to be deported to Austria.

In a related incident, Dutch mobile police officers were deployed to stand guard after several scuffles broke out in Amsterdam’s city center. The disturbances followed the UEFA Europa League Group Stage Matchday 4 football match between Ajax Amsterdam and Maccabi Tel Aviv on November 8, 2024.

*Photo credit: VLN Niews / ANP / AFP*

*By JERUSALEM POST STAFF*
https://www.jpost.com/international/article-868151

SC Clears New AIFF Constitution, Calls It A ‘New Beginning’ For Indian Football

New Delhi: The Supreme Court on Friday approved the draft constitution of the All India Football Federation (AIFF) with certain modifications and directed the federation to adopt it within four weeks.

The top court described this development as a “new beginning for Indian football,” poised to take the sport to greater heights. It also ordered the AIFF to convene a special general body meeting to adopt the draft constitution, which was prepared by former Supreme Court judge L Nageswara Rao.

### Supreme Court’s Observations

A bench comprising Justices P S Narasimha and Joymalya Bagchi stated, “We have approved the provisions of the constitution in the said terms. We direct the AIFF administration to call for a special general body meeting and adopt the draft constitution with the modifications in this judgment. This shall be done at the earliest, preferably within four weeks.”

The 78-page verdict, authored by Justice Narasimha, addressed 12 key issues including membership, suspension, age restrictions, and conflict of interest concerning both the AIFF and state football associations.

### Applicability to State Associations

The Supreme Court clarified that the draft constitution is applicable to state associations as well, despite their resistance. The bench emphasized, “The inclusion of eminent players, coaches, referees, and club representatives in the general body, with only further good governance, heralds transparency and fair play.”

The court further remarked that continuous monitoring of a sports federation by any external forum — including the Supreme Court — is inappropriate. “Having taken up the matter and ensured that the Constitution is brought to this stage, it is necessary to take it to its logical end. Our monitoring will only be that far and no further,” the bench said.

### Current Executive Committee Tenure

The court declined to interfere with the tenure of the current AIFF executive committee led by President Kalyan Chaubey. It noted that the committee was elected for a four-year term, set to expire in September 2026.

“The current executive committee can be treated as a permanent body which shall discharge its function in accordance with the relevant laws as well as the AIFF constitution,” the verdict added.

### Governance and Structure

On the issue of extending the AIFF constitution to state associations, the bench stressed the importance of maintaining the hierarchical pyramidical structure of Indian football. All constituent units and associations lower in hierarchy must observe the same discipline, transparency, fairness, and governance standards applied at the top level.

Referring to the FIFA statute and insights from Justice L N Rao, the court stated, “We are not inclined to accept the argument that the AIFF Constitution ought not to be extended to the state associations and local bodies.”

### Modifications to Eligibility Criteria

The Supreme Court modified the criteria for an “eminent player” eligible to be a member of the AIFF executive committee. The player must be retired for at least two years and have represented India’s senior national team in at least seven competitive matches for men or three for women sanctioned by FIFA/AFC.

However, the court proposed reducing these criteria to five matches for men and two for women to ensure a wider pool of participation by retired players who can serve as efficient administrators and mentors for Indian football.

### Definition of Office Bearers and Vice Presidents

The bench clarified that the term “office bearers” should be understood in the context of AIFF’s functioning and the reforms to be introduced. This definition directly affects the applicability of cooling-off periods, tenure, and age limits, aligning with the federation’s drive for vibrant governance.

Further, the court accepted AIFF’s proposal to increase the number of vice presidents to three, including at least one woman. “Such an amendment will enable women’s representation and, at the same time, confine the number of the executive committee to fifteen members,” the verdict noted.

### Disqualification Norms

Regarding disqualification criteria, the verdict incorporated provisions on criminal charges and convictions of AIFF and state association members. It aligned these norms with those applied in the Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI) case.

The court modified the disqualification provision to focus on “conviction followed by a sentence of imprisonment,” rather than merely the framing of charges.

The bench also stated that public servants with necessary government approval should face no obstacles in becoming members of the football body.

### Other Modifications

Several other amendments were made to the draft constitution to align it with the National Sports Code, ensuring uniformity and compliance with national standards.

—

*Note: Except for the headline, this article has not been edited by FPJ’s editorial team and is auto-generated from an agency feed.*
https://www.freepressjournal.in/sports/sc-clears-new-aiff-constitution-calls-it-a-new-beginning-for-indian-football

SC Clears New AIFF Constitution, Calls It A ‘New Beginning’ For Indian Football

New Delhi: The Supreme Court on Friday approved the draft constitution of the All India Football Federation (AIFF) with certain changes and directed the federation to adopt it within four weeks. The top court termed this development a “new beginning for Indian football,” poised to take the sport to greater heights.

The court directed the national football body to convene a special general body meeting for adopting the draft constitution prepared by its former judge, L Nageswara Rao.

### Observations Made by the Bench

“We have approved the provisions of the constitution in the said terms. We direct the AIFF administration to call for a special general body meeting and adopt the draft constitution with the modifications in this judgment. This shall be done at the earliest, preferably within four weeks,” stated a bench comprising Justices P S Narasimha and Joymalya Bagchi.

The 78-page verdict, authored by Justice Narasimha, addressed 12 critical issues including membership, suspension, age bar, and conflict of interest related to AIFF and state football associations.

### Applicability to State Associations

The Supreme Court clarified that the draft constitution will also apply to state associations, despite their resistance. The bench emphasized that the inclusion of eminent players, coaches, referees, and club representatives in the general body will usher in greater transparency and fair play.

It observed, “The inclusion of eminent players, coaches, referees, and club representatives in the general body, with only further good governance, heralds transparency and fair play.”

The bench further noted that continuous monitoring of a sports federation by any forum, including the Supreme Court, is not appropriate. “Having taken up the matter and ensured that the Constitution is brought to this stage, it is necessary to take it to its logical end. Our monitoring will only be that far and no further,” it added.

### Tenure of Current Executive Committee

The court refused to interfere with the tenure of the current AIFF executive committee headed by President Kalyan Chaubey. It stated that since the committee was elected for a four-year term, their tenure will expire in September 2026—less than a year from now.

“The current executive committee can be treated as a permanent body which shall discharge its function in accordance with the relevant laws as well as the AIFF constitution,” the bench observed.

### Enforcing Discipline Across All Levels

Addressing the contentious issue of applicability of the AIFF constitution to state associations, the bench stressed the importance of maintaining a pyramidal structure of Indian football. It said constituent units and lower-level associations must implement the same discipline, fairness, transparency, and good governance standards applied at the top.

“In view of the FIFA statute, the relevant comments of Justice L N Rao and on analysis of the far-reaching implications of this provision, we are not inclined to accept the argument that the AIFF Constitution ought not be extended to the state associations and local bodies,” the court stated.

### Modifications to Criteria for “Eminent Player”

The Supreme Court modified the criteria for the “eminent player” who is a member of the AIFF executive committee. The revised criteria specify that the player should be retired for at least two years and must have represented India (senior team) in at least seven competitive matches for men and three for women, sanctioned by FIFA/AFC.

However, the bench proposed a reasonable reduction: five matches for men and two for women, to ensure a wider pool of retired players actively participating as efficient administrators and guiding lights for Indian football.

### Definition of “Office Bearers” and Governance Reforms

The bench emphasized that the term “office bearers” must be understood in the context of AIFF’s functioning and necessary reforms. This definition will impact the applicability of cooling-off periods, terms, tenure, and age limits, aligning with reforms introduced for vibrant federation governance.

### Women’s Representation and Vice Presidents

Accepted AIFF’s proposal to increase the number of vice presidents to three, including one woman representative. This amendment aims to strengthen women’s representation while keeping the executive committee size to fifteen members.

### Disqualification Norms and Other Modifications

On disqualification issues, including criminal charges and convictions of AIFF and state association members, the bench adopted standards similar to those in the Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI) case. It modified disqualification provisions to apply only upon conviction followed by imprisonment, not merely on framing of charges.

The Supreme Court also stated that public servants with necessary government approvals can become members of the football body without issues.

Several other modifications were incorporated into the draft constitution to align it with the National Sports Code.

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“Another L incoming” – Fans react to Jean Silva reportedly eyeing Yair Rodriguez fight next after Noche UFC loss

Fans have reacted with great enthusiasm after Jean Silva expressed his interest in facing former interim UFC featherweight champion Yair Rodriguez as his next opponent.

The potential matchup has generated significant buzz within the MMA community, sparking discussions and predictions about how the fight could unfold. Fans are eager to see these two skilled fighters clash inside the Octagon, anticipating an exciting and competitive bout.

Silva’s public declaration has certainly heightened expectations, setting the stage for what could be a thrilling encounter in the featherweight division. As the conversation continues, many will be watching closely to see if this highly anticipated fight becomes a reality.
https://www.sportskeeda.com/mma/news-another-l-incoming-fans-react-jean-silva-reportedly-eyeing-yair-rodriguez-fight-next-noche-ufc-loss

Anatoly Malykhin says loss to ‘Reug Reug’ was crucial for MMA career: “What I needed was exactly this”

Russian behemoth Anatoly Malykhin experienced a significant setback last year when he suffered the first loss of his MMA career.

The defeat came at the hands of Reug Reug Oumar Kane, marking a pivotal moment in Malykhin’s fighting journey.
https://www.sportskeeda.com/mma/news-anatoly-malykhin-says-loss-reug-reug-crucial-mma-career-what-i-needed-exactly-this

“I had a little PTSD”- Noah Lyles reveals therapist’s crucial advice about mindset that helped him to achieve Usain Bolt feat at World championship

Noah Lyles stunned spectators and the track community with his incredible performance in the 200m race at the World Athletics Championships.

His remarkable speed and technique left fans and fellow athletes alike in awe. This standout performance further solidified Lyles’ reputation as one of the premier sprinters in the world.
https://www.sportskeeda.com/us/olympics/news-i-little-ptsd-noah-lyles-reveals-therapist-s-crucial-advice-mindset-helped-achieve-usain-bolt-feat-world-championship

Bizarre Moment! Alex Albon’s Wing Mirror Flies Off During Formula 1 Azerbaijan Grand Prix Practice Session; Video

Alex Albon Faces Rare Issue as Wing Mirror Detaches During Azerbaijan Grand Prix Practice

Williams F1 driver Alex Albon experienced an unusual hiccup during the free practice session of the Azerbaijan Grand Prix in Baku, as one of his car’s wing mirrors came loose and eventually detached mid-session. The unexpected incident drew attention from both commentators and fans, given how rare and potentially risky such a failure can be on a street circuit known for its tight turns and high-speed straights.

The wing mirror detached on the long back straight of the Baku City Circuit, a track where visibility is crucial due to its blend of narrow sections and overtaking zones. Albon continued driving briefly before returning to the pits, where Williams engineers quickly assessed the damage and retrieved the missing part. Thankfully, Albon remained in control throughout and avoided any further complications.

Wing mirrors in Formula 1 are not just for checking positions but are crucial for safety, especially on a track like Baku where walls leave no margin for error. Their aerodynamic positioning also means any detachment could disrupt airflow and balance, particularly during fast-paced practice laps.

The Azerbaijan Grand Prix has a reputation for chaos and unpredictability, and Albon’s lost mirror is another small chapter in that ongoing story. As the weekend progresses, Williams will be aiming for stability and performance, with both mirrors firmly attached.

Ferrari’s Star Duo Lewis Hamilton & Charles Leclerc Climb Fence to Greet Tifosi After Italian Grand Prix

In a moment that sent the crowd at Monza into a frenzy, Ferrari drivers Lewis Hamilton and Charles Leclerc climbed over the fence to greet the adoring Tifosi after the conclusion of the Italian Grand Prix. Though the race didn’t end with a Ferrari victory, the gesture from the drivers turned into an emotional highlight of the weekend, showcasing the deep connection between the Scuderia and its passionate fans.

The Italian Grand Prix is always a special affair for Ferrari, and the 2025 edition was no exception. Despite battling hard on the track and finishing just off the podium, both Hamilton and Leclerc knew the importance of acknowledging the sea of red that had filled the stands in support.

After returning to the pits post-race, the two drivers surprised everyone by making their way to the grandstand fence, climbing over it to personally wave, cheer, and salute the fans — a rare and heartfelt act in modern Formula 1.

For Hamilton, who is in his debut season with Ferrari, it was a particularly emotional moment. The seven-time world champion has often spoken about the magic of Monza and the legacy of Ferrari, but this was the first time he experienced the love of the Tifosi as one of their own. Smiling broadly and visibly moved, Hamilton raised both hands in gratitude, taking in the thunderous chants of his name blended with Ferrari cheers.

Leclerc, already a fan favorite, shared a similar moment of joy. Having raced for Ferrari since 2019, he knows what it means to perform in front of the Italian faithful. He took time to engage with the crowd, waving and exchanging gestures that spoke volumes about the bond between the team and the fans.

While the race itself was dominated by Red Bull’s Max Verstappen, the lasting image from Monza was not of victory but of unity. The sight of two Ferrari drivers climbing the fence, arms raised in salute to the red sea below, was a powerful reminder that in Formula 1, passion can matter just as much as points.
https://www.freepressjournal.in/sports/bizarre-moment-alex-albons-wing-mirror-flies-off-during-formula-1-azerbaijan-grand-prix-practice-session-video

Devdutt Padikkal completes 3,000 First-class runs with 7th century: Stats

**Devdutt Padikkal Completes 3,000 First-Class Runs with 7th Century Against Australia A**

*By Rajdeep Saha | Sep 19, 2025, 01:59 PM*

Karnataka’s Devdutt Padikkal made a stunning return to the India A circuit with an impressive century against Australia A in Lucknow. The left-handed batsman resumed his innings on the fourth morning at an overnight score of 86 and quickly reached his hundred in just 120 balls. This marked Padikkal’s seventh First-Class (FC) century and helped him surpass the milestone of 3,000 runs in FC cricket.

### Solid Partnership with Dhruv Jurel Powers India A

Batting at number four, Padikkal forged a crucial partnership with India A’s wicketkeeper Dhruv Jurel. When Jurel joined him at the crease, India A were 222/4. The duo put together a formidable 228-run stand for the fifth wicket in response to Australia A’s first innings tally of 532/6 declared.

Despite the mounting pressure, Jurel counter-attacked brilliantly and scored a well-crafted century off just 114 balls. He ended his innings with 140 runs from 197 deliveries.

### Padikkal’s Impressive Knock

Padikkal made his innings count by scoring a commanding 150 runs from 281 balls, including 14 boundaries and a six. After Jurel’s dismissal, Padikkal added 41 runs with Tanush Kotian and another 29 runs alongside Harsh Dubey before he was finally dismissed by Corey Rocchiccioli.

At the time of Padikkal’s departure, India A’s score stood at 520/7. Rain subsequently stopped play with India A at 532/7.

### Milestone Achievement: 3,000 First-Class Runs

Playing in his 45th FC match, Padikkal has now amassed over 3,000 runs, totaling 3,038 at an impressive average of over 42. His record includes 7 centuries and 18 half-centuries. Of these, 90 runs have come in two Test matches representing Team India.

### Career Highlights and Return to Competitive Cricket

At just 25 years old, Padikkal has already established himself as a promising cricketer. This match marks only his second competitive outing since the 2025 Indian Premier League season with Royal Challengers Bangalore.

Earlier this month, he made a comeback in First-Class cricket with a half-century and an unbeaten 16 runs in the Duleep Trophy semi-final in Bengaluru.

### International Stint: Test Debut and Challenges

Padikkal made his Test debut against England in Dharamsala last year, scoring a half-century. However, he played only one more Test during the Border-Gavaskar Trophy 2024-25 opener against Australia in Perth. After a disappointing duck in the first innings and 25 runs in the second, he was dropped for the rest of the tour.

He also missed India’s recent England tour in June, but this recent performance signals a positive resurgence in his career.

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Devdutt Padikkal’s fluent century against Australia A not only helped India A fight back strongly but also marked a significant milestone in his cricketing journey. Fans and selectors alike will be hopeful that this form translates into a sustained return to international cricket.
https://www.newsbytesapp.com/news/sports/padikkal-gets-to-this-massive-fc-milestone-with-defiant-150/story

Sri Lanka’s Dunith Wellalage loses father during Asia Cup match

**Sri Lanka’s Dunith Wellalage Loses Father During Asia Cup Match**

*By Rajdeep Saha | September 19, 2025, 02:25 AM*

Sri Lankan all-rounder Dunith Wellalage endured a heartbreaking personal loss on Thursday, September 18, when his father, Suranga Wellalage, passed away due to a heart attack. The tragic news came while Dunith was representing Sri Lanka in their Asia Cup 2025 group-stage match against Afghanistan in Abu Dhabi.

According to ESPNcricinfo, Dunith learned of his father’s death after the match, which Sri Lanka won by six wickets with eight balls to spare. Former cricketer and broadcaster Russell Arnold confirmed the news on air following Sri Lanka’s victory over Afghanistan.

Reports from Sri Lankan media indicate that Dunith was informed about Suranga’s passing shortly after the successful chase of 170 runs. A photo shared by journalist Damith Weerasinghe showed the team manager consoling a visibly shaken Dunith by putting an arm around him.

### A Legacy Remembered

Suranga Wellalage was remembered fondly by Russell Arnold, who recalled Suranga as a talented cricketer and captain of one of Sri Lanka’s top school teams, Prince of Wales College. Arnold himself captained St Peter’s College during the same era.

Suranga’s sudden passing has understandably cast a shadow over Dunith’s participation in the remaining Asia Cup matches. Sri Lanka is scheduled to play three more games: against Bangladesh on September 20, Pakistan on September 23, and India on September 26.

### Dunith Wellalage’s International Career

Thursday’s match against Afghanistan marked only Dunith’s fifth T20 International and his first appearance in the Asia Cup 2025 tournament. He holds seven T20I wickets at an average of 20.

In the ODI format, Dunith has played 31 matches and taken 39 wickets with an average of 29.10. His best bowling figures in ODIs came in August 2024, when he took 5/27 against India in Colombo. During the 2023 Asia Cup (ODI format), he also made headlines by claiming five wickets for 40 runs against India.

Wellalage has appeared in one Test match but is yet to take a wicket in that format.

### Performance Against Afghanistan

During the match against Afghanistan, Dunith bowled well initially, reducing the opposition to 114/7 in the 17th over. Afghanistan stood at 137/7 after 19 overs, with Rashid Khan dismissed for 24.

However, the final over proved costly as Mohammad Nabi hit Dunith for five sixes, helping Afghanistan score a staggering 32 runs in that over, which included a no-ball and a single run on the last delivery. Afghanistan’s final total was 169/8.

Dunith finished with figures of 1/49 from his four overs, making a valuable contribution to Sri Lanka’s successful chase.

—

The cricketing community and fans alike extend their condolences to Dunith Wellalage and his family during this difficult time, while supporting him as he continues to represent Sri Lanka on the international stage.
https://www.newsbytesapp.com/news/sports/sri-lanka-allrounder-dunith-wellalage-s-father-passes-away/story

Sri Lanka’s Dunith Wellalage loses father during Asia Cup match

**Sri Lanka’s Dunith Wellalage Loses Father During Asia Cup Match**

*By Rajdeep Saha | September 19, 2025, 02:25 AM*

Sri Lankan all-rounder Dunith Wellalage endured a heartbreaking personal loss on Thursday, September 18, when his father, Suranga Wellalage, passed away due to a heart attack. The tragic news reached Dunith while he was representing Sri Lanka in their Asia Cup 2025 group-stage match against Afghanistan in Abu Dhabi.

According to ESPNcricinfo, Dunith was informed about his father’s demise only after the match, which Sri Lanka won by six wickets with eight balls to spare.

—

**Confirmation and Reactions**

Former cricketer and broadcaster Russell Arnold confirmed the sad news on-air following Sri Lanka’s victory over Afghanistan. Sri Lankan media reports revealed that Dunith was notified about the passing shortly after the team successfully chased down a target of 170 runs.

A poignant moment was captured by journalist Damith Weerasinghe, who shared a photo showing the Sri Lankan team manager comforting a visibly shaken Dunith, putting an arm around him.

—

**Remembering Suranga Wellalage**

Suranga Wellalage’s passing casts a somber shadow over Dunith’s ongoing participation in the Asia Cup. Russell Arnold fondly remembered Suranga as a talented cricketer, highlighting his role as captain of Prince of Wales College — one of Sri Lanka’s premier school teams — during Arnold’s own captaincy tenure at St. Peter’s College.

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**Impact on Asia Cup Participation**

The loss inevitably raises questions about Dunith’s involvement in Sri Lanka’s remaining Asia Cup matches. Sri Lanka is scheduled to face Bangladesh on September 20, Pakistan on September 23, and India on September 26.

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**Dunith Wellalage’s International Career**

Thursday’s match against Afghanistan marked only Dunith’s fifth T20 International and his first outing in the Asia Cup 2025 tournament. He currently holds 7 T20I wickets at an average of 20.00.

In One Day Internationals (ODIs), Dunith has featured in 31 matches. His standout performance includes best bowling figures of 5/27 during the third ODI against India in Colombo in August 2024. He has claimed 39 ODI wickets at an average of 29.10 overall. Notably, during the 2023 Asia Cup (ODI format), he took five wickets for 40 runs against India. Dunith has also played in one Test match, though he did not take any wickets in that format.

—

**Performance Against Afghanistan**

In the match versus Afghanistan, Dunith conceded 32 runs in the 20th over. Afghanistan’s innings was struggling at 114/7 by the 17th over following the dismissal of Rashid Khan for 24 runs. They moved to 137/7 in the 19th over.

However, Afghan batsman Mohammad Nabi launched an onslaught in the final over, hitting five sixes off Wellalage’s bowling. The final over yielded a massive 32 runs, which included a no-ball and a single on the last delivery, bringing Afghanistan’s total to 169/8.

Despite the expensive final over, Dunith delivered a generally steady bowling performance, finishing with figures of 1/49 from his 4 overs.

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Sri Lanka’s journey in the Asia Cup continues amid emotional challenges for Dunith Wellalage. Fans and teammates alike are hopeful for his strength and success in the upcoming matches.
https://www.newsbytesapp.com/news/sports/sri-lanka-allrounder-dunith-wellalage-s-father-passes-away/story