protagonists

‘Red, Red Clay’ by Francesca Schiavone and Li Na

 

Li Na finally won her first major at the ripe, old age of 29.

Francesca Schiavone’s hopes of defending her 2010 title were dashed by the daughter of a former badminton player. Li Na was told to switchover to tennis at eight by her coach. 

If there is a theme song for  the two unlikely protagonists in yet another fairy-tale ending at Roland Garros, it can only be ‘Red Red Clay’, a modified version of UB40’s ‘Red Red Wine’.

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Somdev Devvarman’s brave fight in vain: India lose 1-4 to Serbia

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If there were any doubts that Somdev Devvarman is the rightful inheritor to Leander Paes’ mantle in the Davis Cup , they were put to rest by his stellar display at Novi Sad against defending champions Serbia.

Novak Djokovic—the World No.3 and architect of the successful Serbian title run last year—opted out of the first round tie. India were hit hard by Leander Paes and Mahesh Bhupathi’s withdrawals due to injuries. The doubles point was considered to be in the bag with the duo around.

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Federer Vs Nadal: Beauty Against The Beast

Nadal and Federer, Federer and Nadal, can we mention one without naming the other?

Once upon a time, there was Roger Federer and the many dwarves. Then arrived Rafael Nadal like a light bulb whose incandescence just shone brighter and brighter. But not so much to eclipse a dwindling Federer but enough to illumine and bathe the ATP  tennis courts – each taking turns at being  sunbeam and  moonbeam.

We have all heard talk about how graceful Federer is on the tennis court, how he is balletic , fluid of motion and a purist’s delight.

We have also lauded Rafa for his continually improving game, noted how his serve has become much more faster and accurate, and exclaimed how he keeps adding facets to his game.

But if you and I were to single out one defining characteristic of these two outstanding protagonists of the modern game, what would it be?

Quote of the day:
In great affairs men show themselves as they wish to be seen; in small things they show themselves as they are. – Nicholas Chamfort

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Spirit Of The Game:Will and Grace

The fallout of the condemnatory reaction to the no- ball incident has been swift in its dénouement.

Suraj Randiv has been suspended for the next game and fined 100% of his match fee.

Tillekaratne Dilshan has forfeited his entire match fee as well.

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Kumara Sangakarra gets off with just a slap on the wrist – not even a perfunctory rap on the knuckles.

The Sri Lankan cricket board was quick to react and ordered an enquiry into the unsavory affair.

The Sri Lankan board comes out smelling like roses; it has been commended by the ICC for its speedy resolution of the controversy. The Spirit Of The Game has been enforced.

The same cannot be said of the other protagonists in L’affaire No Ball.