Others

Delhi SG Pipers have bolstered their squad for the upcoming Hockey India League (HIL) season by signing three-time Olympian Jacob 'Jake' Whetton of Australia. The 33-year-old midfielder joins the Pipers as a replacement for Dutchman Jorrit Croon, who has withdrawn due to an ankle injury.Whetton brings a wealth of experience to the Delhi franchise, having played 253 games for the Australian national team, the Kookaburras. He has scored 75 goals for his country and has been instrumental in their success on the international stage.In 2021, Whetton helped Australia win the silver medal at the Tokyo Olympics. He was also part of the team that won the World Cup in 2014 and finished third in 2018. Additionally, he has won gold medals at the Commonwealth Games in Glasgow 2014, Gold Coast 2018, and Birmingham 2022.Whetton's impressive resume also includes two Champions Trophy titles (2012 and 2018), a bronze medal in 2014, four Oceania Cup titles, and an FIH Pro League gold in 2019.Delhi SG Pipers head coach Graham Reid expressed his excitement about Whetton's signing, saying, "Jacob's experience and skill set will be invaluable in filling the void left by Jorrit. His ability to control the midfield aligns perfectly with our game strategy."Whetton is familiar with Reid's coaching style, having worked with him in the past. He is expected to bring energy and expertise to the Pipers team.The HIL is making a comeback after a seven-year hiatus and will run from December 28 to February 1. The Pipers will be hoping to make a strong impact in the tournament with the addition of Whetton to their squad.

Australian hockey star Matt Dawson has made an extraordinary sacrifice in his quest to compete at the Paris Olympics, undergoing surgery to amputate part of his finger. The 30-year-old, who was a member of the silver medal-winning team at the Tokyo Olympics in 2021, recently broke the ring finger on his right hand, jeopardizing his hopes of participating in his third Olympic Games.Faced with the choice of wearing a cast and allowing the finger to heal or having the top portion removed, Dawson opted for the latter. "I made an informed decision with the plastic surgeon at the time, not only for the opportunity to play in Paris but for life after as well," he said.The surgery was successful, and Dawson is now on his way to France for the Olympics. "It's a bit of a change at the moment and an exciting challenge, I guess," he said.Australian coach Colin Batch praised Dawson's unwavering commitment. "It's not something a coach can decide for a player," he said. "Full marks to Matt. Obviously, he's really committed to playing in Paris. I'm not sure I would have done it, but he's done it, so great."Dawson's sacrifice highlights the immense dedication and determination required to compete at the highest level in sports. Despite the setback, he remains optimistic about his chances in Paris. "I'm feeling really good," he said. "I've been doing a lot of rehab and training, and I'm confident I'll be ready to go."Australia, who lost to Belgium in a penalty shootout in the Tokyo final, will face 2016 Olympic champions Argentina in their first match in Paris on July 27. With Dawson's unwavering spirit and the team's collective determination, they will be aiming to secure a podium finish and bring home a medal for their country.