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As we kick off a two-week international break, the preliminary stage of the 2027 Africa Cup of Nations qualification gets underway. �

The 2027 edition of the continental showpiece will be co-hosted by a trio of East African nations – Kenya, Uganda and Tanzania. A total of 24 teams will qualify for the tournament.�

The preliminary round kicks off on Wednesday, March 25 – featuring the eight lowest-ranked teams from the FIFA rankings. The winners of the two-legged ties will then progress to the group stage of the competition.�

These teams are Somalia, Djibouti, São Tomé and Principe, Chad, Mauritius, South Sudan, Liberia and Eswatini.�

Here we have a look at the first leg of the matches and offer our predicted outcome.�

Eritrea vs Eswatini – Wednesday, 5PM�

After an 18-year absence from AFCON, Eritrea are all set to battle it out for a place in the tournament. The last time they featured in the tournament was in 2008.�

They come into the game without a win in their last five outings – with their last game resulting in a 1-0 defeat to Niger in May last year.�

They take on an Eswatini side who are also without a win in their last five games – losing four times and sharing the spoils in another. They lost their last match 3-0 to Cape Verde in a World Cup qualifier last October.�

With the lack of playing time, Eritrea are not favorites to win here and they may have to settle for a point in the first leg.�

Prediction – Eritrea to win or draw�

São Tomé and Principe vs Ethiopia – Wednesday, 5PM

The hosts are looking to make it back-to-back wins for the first time since 2019. Their last match was a 1-0 win against Malawi in a World Cup qualifier last October.�

The win snapped a dismal seven-game losing streak as they look to get a positive result in the first leg.�

They face an Ethiopia side who have won two and lost three in their last five games. Burkina Faso beat Ethiopia 3-1 in their last outing on October 12 last year.�

These two sides have played each other twice in their history – with each team winning once.�

Prediction – Over 1.5 goals�

Djibouti vs South Sudan – Thursday, 4PM�

Djibouti are currently on the worst run of form on the continent, losing all of their previous 10 games prior to this encounter. They have conceded 19 goals in their last five matches.�

South Sudan are also on an eight-game winless run and are coming off a 2-0 defeat to Syria. The visitors have been dominant over their opponents in their previous head-to-head encounters, winning four of the last five matches.�

There is plenty on the line for both sides as they seek a way back into the tournament, setting this up to be a rather cagey encounter. Aside from Sudan’s 1-0 win in 2022, the remaining matches have produced over 1.5 goals and the same can be expected here.�

Prediction – Over 1.5 goals�

Chad vs Burundi – Friday, 4PM�

Both these sides come into the game on similar runs of form – losing four times and sharing the spoils in the other.�

Chad played out to a 2-2 draw against Mozambique in their last outing, while Burundi lost 2-0 to Gabon in a World Cup qualifier on October 14 last year.�

This will be the first competitive meeting between these two nations. The hosts have a fully fit squad and are tipped as favorites to avoid defeat in the first leg.�

Prediction – Chad to win or draw (1X)

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By Eduard Bănulescu

It’s not over until it’s over. This is the time of the season when Premier League teams really have to sweat it out. It’s also the period where many players are missing out of form.

Where does that leave you? Seeking advice, and here it is! These are the players that you need to consider for your Premier League fantasy football team, and a few that you must avoid at all costs.

Since you’re here, let’s hook you up with some cash prizes. Join the free FootballCoin and create your team within minutes.

The “Must-Haves”

United’s flying! And even if this is unlikely to last, there’s no way around the fact that Fernandes and Casemiro are delivering each week in what could be both midfielders’ final season.

Mainoo is a smart choice when considering your budget. And, Lammens, while he’s unlikely to keep a clean sheet against Bournemouth, could be your #1 for the same reason. Cunha and Mbeumo are fine, but there might be better options out there.

Meanwhile, Senesi and Hill have been consistent across the season, while Tavernier has been plain excellent and makes for a great choice.

Tottenham vs. Nottingham Forest is the most important game of the season for both sides. Players will be committed to a good result. Romero, Ven, Dragusin and Sarr will show up, even though mistakes are nearly always part of their repertoire.

A pretty knackered Forest side will have to get the best out of Anderson, Milenkovic, and Gibbs-White. Neither team has strikers in good enough form to warrant selection.

The “Might As Well Try ‘Em”

Chelsea is not quite woeful, and Everton is not quite great. This should make it a tight affair with a lot of passing the ball in the midfield area.

Palmer, Caicedo and Fofana are good picks if you can afford them. Fernandez, however, is the only truly consistent performer.

Meanwhile, there are few better affordable choices than Garner. Gueye and Keane are also fine picks, real “Moyes players.”

Newcastle will try to rebuild morale after the humbling defeat to Barcelona. Playing at Sunderland is just the place to do it. Joelinton, Elanga and Gordon are good picks this week.

West Ham is desperate for points without relegation looming large, while Aston Villa is in a real goalscoring dry spell.

Mavrapanos, Soucek, or Bowen aren’t the first names you consider when assembling your EPL fantasy football team, but they’re worth considering in Round 31, I think. Wing-backs Wan-Bissaka and Diouf may also play their part here.

Meanwhile, Onana, Barkley and McGinn tend to be the players that Unai Emery leans on when things get tough, and they’re likely to perform well regardless of the final result.

The “Need One More Player for a Full Squad”

Liverpool’s energised after victory against Galatasaray in the UCL. However, it’s likely Brighton will match the Reds’ stamina and much of the team’s collective skill.

Recent performances suggest it’s okay to go back to picking Mac Allister, Gravenberch and Szoboszlai. Ekitike is a smart choice. And, for the first time, you might even take a chance on Wirtz.

Alisson could also make a good goalie pick with Welbeck, Minteh and Gross capable of giving him something to work with.

Perhaps These Are Ones You Should Avoid

Garnacho may start for Chelsea, but there are better options out there. And while I am a fan of Cucurella and Sanchez, this Chelsea defence doesn’t inspire much confidence at present.

Sesko is certainly putting the goals away. But he usually does it while playing only 20 minutes of games. That might not be enough to warrant selection.

Salah scored against Galatasaray in the UCL. But the first half performance suggests he’s a way off from being the best striker that you can pick. Konate is much the same.

Simmons and Muani put in the best performances of their Tottenham careers against Atletico Madrid. Still, it’s hard to justify picking them this week.

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So, you’ve decided to pick up a racquet. Maybe you watched a Grand Slam final and felt that spark, or perhaps you’re looking to get your kids into a sport that builds character and stamina. Or maybe, you just want to smash a yellow ball after a long day at work. We get it. There is something incredibly satisfying about the thwack of a clean forehand.

But where do you start? Finding the right court and coach matters as much as the drive to play. You want a place that pushes you but also feels like home.

If you are looking for the best tennis academy in Ahmedabad, you are in luck. The city is teeming with courts where champions are made and weekends are well spent.�

Qq Khelomore, we have scouted the top spots so you don’t have to. Here is where you should be heading to sharpen that serve.

Finding the Best Tennis Academy in Ahmedabad

S.No.	Tennis Academy	Google Rating
1.	Lakshya Sports Academy	4.8
2.	Navrang Tennis Academy	4.5
3.	Ahmedabad City Tennis Foundation (ACTF)	4.5
4.	Ageta Tennis Academy	4.5
5.	GK Tennis Academy	5.0
6.	Altitude Tennis Academy	4.9
7.	Neon Sports Academy	4.4
8.	Ahmedabad Racquet Academy (ARA)	4.1
9.	Shaishya Tennis Academy	4.4
10.	SRAG Tennis Academy	4.2

If you are starting from scratch, Lakshya is the best tennis academy in Ahmedabad. The coaches here are known for being hyper-attentive. They don’t just feed you balls; they break down your swing and build it back up. It’s a supportive vibe where you get constant feedback, so you aren’t guessing what went wrong with that backhand.

What’s cool is that they don’t limit you to tennis. If you have ever wondered about the pickleball vs tennis debate, you can actually try both here. They have a quality pickleball setup, so you can see why the smaller court version is taking the world by storm.

Location: Road, opp. Aakruti Elegance, nr. Godrej Garden City Road, New Chamunda Society, Godrej Garden City, Jagatpur, Tragad, Ahmedabad, Gujarat 382470.

Timings: 6 am–11:30 pm; 6 am–11:00 pm (Sunday)

Facilities: 4 Hard courts, 6 Carpet courts, 7 Synthetic courts, Pickleball courts, floodlights, pro shop, clubhouse.

Navrang has built a reputation for blending fitness with friendship. It is one of those places where you go for tennis coaching in Ahmedabad but stay for the community. The environment is joyful, and the regulars are welcoming. It isn’t rigorous to the point of exhaustion; it’s about enjoying the game while you sweat.

The academy has structured coaching with certified trainers who focus on both the physical and mental sides of the match. Regular tournaments keep the competitive spirit alive.

Location: Sundar Nagar, Naranpura, Ahmedabad, Gujarat 380013.

Timings: 6–11 am & 4–9 pm; Closed on Sunday

Facilities: Hard court, floodlights, drinking water, parking, seating area, warm-up area, change rooms.

ACTF is a heavyweight in the local scene. Formed back in 1986, it has grown from two humble clay courts to a massive complex with nine synthetic hard courts. Located in Navrangpura, it is right among other major sports hubs, giving it a serious athletic atmosphere.

With floodlit courts, you can keep playing long after the sun goes down. The ample space around the courts is great for absorbing all those essential exercises for every tennis player— lunges, shadow swings, etc.It is the best tennis academy in Ahmedabad from that standpoint.

Location: Near Sardar Patel Cricket Stadium, Sardar Patel Stadium Rd, opp. Golden Triangle Complex, Sardar Patel Colony, Navrangpura, Ahmedabad, Gujarat 380009.

Timings: 6–11 am & 4–7 pm; Closed on Sunday

Facilities: 9 synthetic hard courts (4 floodlit), fitness area, clubhouse, changing rooms, parking.

Ageta positions itself as a family-oriented spot that takes training seriously. They have special batches for everyone, viz., women, kids, and even senior citizens. It’s inclusive, but that doesn’t mean they skimp on quality.

Their training structure is methodical: 10 minutes of warm-up, 30 minutes of intense drilling, match play, and a cool-down session. This routine ensures you stay injury-free while improving. If you want Ahmedabad tennis coaching that cares about your longevity in the sport, this is a solid pick.

Location: Gurukul Rd, opp. IDBI bank, Near raymond showroom, Nilmani Society, Memnagar, Ahmedabad, Gujarat 380052.

Timings: 6–9 am & 4–9 pm; Closed on Sunday

Facilities: 2 Hard courts, floodlights, individual/group coaching, warm-up area, washrooms, first aid.

For parents looking to turn their kids into serious contenders, GK Tennis Academy is often the go-to.  Deeply invested in their students, monitoring progress from basic strokes to advanced tactics, it is definitely the best tennis academy in Ahmedabad for the serious.

You’ll hear stories of state-level title winners training here, which speaks volumes. The coaches push for continuous improvement, so bring your work ethic. Many consider it a contender for the best tennis training academy in India when it comes to junior development at the grassroots level.

Location: Nr.H.B.Kapadiya School Circle TP44, Chandkheda, Ahmedabad, Gujarat 382424.

Timings: 6–10 am & 4–8 pm; 6 am–10 pm (on Friday)

Facilities: Hard courts, accommodations, physiotherapy, video analysis, fitness training.

Altitude is for those who want the full “pro” experience. They don’t mess around. Their ITF Batch is designed for players aiming for international competition, featuring tactical sessions and strength conditioning.

They even have housing, so players can live and breathe tennis. It’s a high-performance environment with gyms, nutritionists, and a focus on mental conditioning. When people talk about the best tennis academy in India, places with this level of infrastructure are what they mean.

Location: Shilaj Rd, Thaltej, Ahmedabad, Gujarat 380059.

Timings: Contact the Academy

Facilities: 4 Synthetic courts, 6 Mini courts, housing/hostel, gym, nutritionist, physiotherapy, video analysis.

Neon takes a 360-degree approach. They use cutting-edge technology to analyse your game, which is a game-changer if you are a data nerd or just want objective feedback. Their “Elite Coaching Team” focuses on mental toughness as much as technical skill.

They also have badminton facilities. If you have ever argued with a friend about the difference between tennis and badminton, you can play both here and realise they are entirely different beasts requiring different wrist actions and stamina reserves.

Location: 11, Murlidhar Party Plot Rd, Thaltej, Ahmedabad, Gujarat 380059.

Timings: 6 am–10 pm; Closed on Sunday

Facilities: 6 Clay courts, badminton courts, AC changing rooms, hostel, food & beverages, floodlights.

When you are looking for the best tennis academy in Ahmedabad, ARA is a premium destination. It’s massive, with seven tennis courts and a program that emphasises “grace and dexterity.” They have a youth program that introduces kids to the sport in a fun way, but their senior training is gritty and competitive.

Because it is a multi-sport facility, you get a vibe of general athletic excellence. The infrastructure is top-tier, ensuring the ball bounces true every time.

Location: Green Field, 3, Sindhu Bhavan Marg, opp. Murli Restaurant, PRL Colony, Thaltej, Ahmedabad, Gujarat 380059.

Timings: 6 am–11 pm

Facilities: 7 Tennis courts (Hard/Synthetic), squash, badminton, table tennis, football, rifle shooting.

Simply saying, Shaishya is a favourite in Ahmedabad because of its accessibility and safe environment. It’s been a staple for learners for years.

They have embraced the Padel craze, too. It’s a great spot if your group is split between tennis purists and those wanting to try something new. The parking is ample, which, let’s be honest, is a luxury in Ahmedabad.

Location: Lane of Aryavrat IV, opposite YMCA club, Makarba, Ahmedabad, Gujarat 380058.

Timings: 6:30 am–9 pm; Closed on Sunday

Facilities: Tennis courts, Padel courts, Pickleball, Box Cricket, Football, parking, and restrooms.

SRAG focuses on collegiate and world-class sport. Their approach is holistic, covering the emotional and physical aspects of the player. They have a gym on-site because power generation on the court starts in the weight room.

They also use video analysis rooms to show you exactly where your technique breaks down. It’s a serious setup for anyone looking to play at a high level. Verdict? You have found yet another best tennis academy in Ahmedabad!

Location: SRAG Sports Academy, Gurukul Rd, Behind Vimerti Complex, Part 2, Sushil Nagar Society, Memnagar, Ahmedabad, Gujarat 380052.

Timings: 6–10 am & 4–9 pm; 6–11 am on Sunday

Facilities: 4 Hard courts, gym, aerobics studio, yoga, physiotherapy, and accommodation.

Explore Your Potential with Khelomore

Now that you know where to play, how do you make it happen seamlessly? That is where we step in.

At Khelomore, we are bridging the gap between you and your sporting goals. Think of us as your digital sports concierge. We aren’t just about listing venues; we are about creating access.

Instant Booking: Found a court you like? Don’t waste time calling around. Use our app to book sports venues near you instantly. Whether it’s a quick game of Box Cricket or a serious Tennis session, we have you covered.

Expert Coaching: From “Cricket Champs for Kids” to “Pro Cricket Coaching” for teens, we connect you with expert coaches who can elevate your skills.

Events & Tournaments: Want to test your mettle? Explore events near you through our platform. We host and list exciting programs that introduce kids to teamwork and allow adults to compete.

Venue Management: If you own a facility, you can “Register Your Venue” with us to streamline your bookings and earn more.

Download the Khelomore App on Android or iOS today. It’s time to stop scrolling and start playing.

Ready to Hit the Court?

Ahmedabad has no shortage of incredible places to play. The only thing missing is you.

FAQs

How much does tennis coaching cost in Ahmedabad?

Monthly coaching fees typically range from ₹2,500 to ₹6,000. Costs vary based on the academy’s facilities, the coach’s experience level, and whether you choose group or private sessions.

Do I need to buy a racket immediately?

Not necessarily. Most academies provide spare rackets for trial classes or the first month. However, purchasing your own racket eventually is recommended for consistent progress and grip comfort.

What is the ideal age to start tennis?

Coaches generally recommend starting between ages of 4 and 6 to build hand-eye coordination early. However, tennis is a lifelong sport, and adults can successfully start learning at any age.

Is a clay or hard court better for beginners?

Clay courts are softer, making them easier on the joints and great for learning slide techniques. Hard courts provide a consistent bounce, which helps beginners predict ball trajectory more easily.

Can I book tennis courts instantly on Khelomore?

Yes. Khelomore lets you compare venues, check real-time slot availability, and book courts or coaching sessions instantly through our app or website, avoiding the hassle of phone calls.

Roma will host Bologna in the second leg of their UEFA Europa League knockout playoff on Thursday night, looking to book a place in the quarterfinals.�

The two teams played out to a 1-1 draw in the first leg last week, setting up the second leg to be a potentially explosive encounter. Lorenzo Pellegrini scored a late equalizer to salvage a point for Roma.�

Roma have been eliminated from this stage  in four of their last seven appearances in the competition. The pressure is on for a victory in the home leg as they look to qualify for the last eight.�

Bologna are unbeaten in 10 Europa League matches and will be a true test for the hosts. Their impeccable away form also gives them more than a fighting chance at qualification.�

We have a look at both sides ahead of the highly anticipated clash and offer our predicted outcome.�

ALSO READ: Europa League knockout round second leg predictions: Match preview, key stats & h2h

What time does Roma vs Bologna start?�

The game kicks off at 11PM E.A.T�

Roma vs Bologna team news�

Paulo Dybala and Evan Ferguson remain sidelined through injury and will not feature. Zeki Celik also went off injured in the first leg and will sit this one out.�

The goal scorer from the first leg, Pellegrini will be a key part of the hosts. The attacking trio will be completed by Stephan El Shaarawy and new signing Donyell Malen.�

The rest of the team will remain unchanged from the first leg.�

For the visitors, Juan Miranda is suspended and will not play. As well as Lorenzo di Silvestri and Nikola Moro who are injured.�

Bologna are expected to remain a similar XI to the side that started at the Stadio Olimpico.�

ALSO READ: Senegal to appeal ‘unjust’ AFCON 2025 ruling after CAF award title to Morocco

Roma vs Bologna head-to-head and current form�

The hosts come into the game without a win in their last four games in all competitions – losing twice in that run.�

Bologna on the other hand have won three of the last five matches, losing just one of those games. The visiting side have won all of their last five away matches and will be confident they can extend that record here.�

There have been two draws in the recent five head-to-head matches between these two sides, with Bologna holding a slight advantage with two wins.�

Current form:�

Roma – LDLDW

Bologna – WDLWW

Roma vs Bologna previous games�

Roma vs Bologna prediction�

Despite having home advantage, Roma’s form has been worrying, and they are expected to be under pressure from Bologna throughout the 90.�

Bologna’s away form is impressive and they cannot be counted out here, goals are a better option for the game.�

Prediction – Both teams to score�– CLICK HERE TO PLACE YOUR BET ON THIS GAME!

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By Eduard Bănulescu

The general consensus seems to be that, this year, any team can beat any other team in the Premier League. Well, how does that inflation of quality help you get your fantasy football team in winning form?

I’ve got some advice ahead of Round 30 of the EPL, and you may find this hard to hear. I do think, however, that these picks will improve your fantasy football team selection.

And if winning prizes is your thing (of course, it is!), join us in the free FootballCoin EPL contest this weekend.

The “It’s Too Good Not to Pick This Week” Picks

I start, as always, with the easy pickings. And when I do this, I rarely get the opportunity to speak about Bournemouth.

But, I think you can see a lot of The Cherries in your fantasy football team this weekend. Playing Burnley right now is a real opportunity. Petrovic looks sound in goal and will get to put in a shift to keep the clean sheet.

Evanilson and Tavernier are attacking options worth considering ahead of more famous names. And, defenders Hill, Senesi, and rookie Jimenez have been good across the campaign. The latter, in particular, is a great budget choice.

Moving on, Liverpool’s a sorry sight. But not as much as Tottenham, I reckon. Taking advantage of others’ misery is the way to get your fantasy football team moving. Mac Allister, Szoboszlai and Ekitike will try to paper over their poor stats with a strong performance against Spurs.

The “Can’t Do It Without You” Picks

Let’s move over to the Unavoidable Stars section.

Arsenal’s latter part of the season is characterised by clinical precision and getting away with the three points as neatly as possible. Everton, on the other hand, has a strong defence.

I like Saka, Rice and Eze for the midfielder roles. Saliba and Gabriel rarely disappoint. I also think that Mykolenko, Tarkowski, Gueye, and Dewsbury–Hall have had great campaigns, flown under the radar and deserve a shout.

Manchester City also needs a cynical three-pointer against West Ham. With better pass delivery, Haaland is still the best attacking pick in EPL fantasy football. Meanwhile, Dias and Guehi will be determined to put in a good display after the shameful performance against Real Madrid.

The “Worth a Risk, I Guess” Picks

Manchester United’s forward momentum has dipped. However, earning a victory against Aston Villa is, quite simply, the thing that will determine Michael Carrick’s stay at the club.

Fernandes, Casemiro and Maguire are players he can depend on, and likely so can you.  Meanwhile, Sancho will relish the opportunity to prove his former club’s evaluation of his form to have been wrong. It’s got: “What were you thinking getting rid of him?” written all over it.

I like Chukwueze and Jimenez against an ailing Nottingham Forest defence. But I also think that Milenkovic and Anderson will, at least, try to rescue something from this match.

Finally, I think Palace’s Wharton is a strong pick, and also that Calvert-Lewin hasn’t yet stopped his goal-scoring run for the season. Neither is an essential pick, but it is worth having on your radar.

The Players You Need to Avoid in Round 30

Liverpool vs. Spurs is a pretty sad affair. But what would make it sadder is picking the likes of Danso, Muani or Richarlison. I’m still not sold on Salah, Kerkez, and particularly no on Konate after this week’s UCL performance against Galatasaray.

Cherki is a classic playmaker through and through. But neither he nor O’Reilly and Rodri are consistent enough to warrant a place on your team. Besides, West Ham, a team sinking quickly to the depths of the EPL, has enough to make life hard for City.

Occasionally, Igor Jesus and Gibbs–White produce true moments of magic for Forest. Frankly, I think Fulham’s preparation is too strong to let that happen.

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On a Thursday evening in Mumbai, the Pusalkars aren’t on their couch. They’re on a court.

However, urban India is steadily embracing an active lifestyle to overcome the hours they have to spend sitting. Just look around you, fitness and physical activity are the new buzzwords, and everyone from your 70+ neighbour to your 30-something professionals is all moving, bouncing, stretching, and probably playing a sport.

In Mumbai, you will find an emerging tribe of adults taking up recreational sports as part of their daily routine. And an example of this trend is the recent popularity in Pickleball, Padelball, tennis-ball Cricket, Football, Tennis, Squash, Badminton and Throw-ball. In fact, there are regular tournaments for these sports, and booking turfs or courts for them has become another activity in itself! You have families, groups of women, men, couples, and single people, all out there on the courts, playing out a hard week of work or celebrating a holiday.

In this series, KheloMore will showcase various such active-lifestylers. And who else to kickstart with but the Pusalkar family – Rishi, Puja and two boys, Veer and Vihaan. Between the four of them, they tackle, squash, padel, crossfit, marathon, HyRox, yoga.. sometimes together, sometimes individually.�

 “My father played Squash for India and wanted my brother and me to be involved in some form of sports while we were growing up. Although I chose a different path, the seeds for an active lifestyle were sown then,” informs Puja, 48, adding, “and I always kept active through some activity or another – starting with basic gym after my older son was born.”

For Rishi, 52, a busy Dental Surgeon, an active lifestyle has also always been a way of life. “Being Gen X, our only entertainment was outdoor play. I started tennis at the age of 6 and continued till I turned 20. Summer vacations were spent on the tennis courts and ‘gully cricket’. Monsoons were football.”

It is one thing to start a recreational sport or even get a gym membership, it is another to keep at it day after day, month after month and definitely year after year. Especially if one is not a professional sportsperson.

“Well, two things that kept me going were a motivating partner and the long-lasting happy feeling one gets after a workout,” says Puja, a textile designer with a demanding work schedule involving long commuting hours. “Add to that, having two boys who needed to expend their energy, especially when the pandemic hit.”  Alongside CrossFit and yoga, she has recently taken up playing Padel with any available group of women thrown up by the booking app.�

For Rishi, working out “gives me my daily dose of dopamine and endorphins, making me ready for the challenges of everyday routine.” He adds that since he has been indulging in some sort of physical activity for so many years now, he is addicted to it!

He, too, has tried his hand at Padel recently and finds it a great combination of Tennis and Squash. And he is a budding marathoner, having recently completed two half marathons and a 21 km trail run in Goa.�

Besides, keeping physically active has given them their dream family vacations. Along with 19-year-old Veer and 14-year-old Vihaan, they have taken many an active vacation – be it a cycling vacation in the Netherlands, a surfing trip to Sri Lanka or a trekking and fishing one in the Tirthan Valley.  “I am very happy that we all enjoy the outdoors, and in my opinion, the most valuable habit passed on to my children,” says Rishi, a tad proudly.

The boys, regular Squash players, love the intensity and challenge provided during the vacations. Their best holidays are the ones they spent cycling throughout the Netherlands and Italy, visiting different towns and eating local food. What’s more, the only girl, Puja, in this all-boy family, has learnt to keep up with them through her own activeness. “If you can’t beat them, join them, is my mantra.” And join them, she has!�

Harambee Stars midfielder Timothy Ouma could feature tonight when Lech Poznan take on Shakhtar Donetsk in the first leg of their UEFA Europa Conference League Round of 16 tie.

Lech Poznan head into the clash looking to continue their European journey after progressing through the playoff round. The Polish side defeated Kuopion Palloseura 3-0 on aggregate to book their place in the last 16.

Their path to the Conference League has been lengthy. After winning the Polish Ekstraklasa title last season, Lech initially competed in the Champions League qualifiers. They eliminated Breidablik Kopavogur before falling to Red Star Belgrade in the third qualifying round.

The defeat dropped them into the Europa League playoffs, where they were eliminated by KRC Genk, eventually sending them to the Conference League.

ALSO READ: Harambee Stars midfielder Timothy Ouma features in big UEFA Conference League win

In the league phase of the competition, Lech Poznan produced a solid campaign with three wins, one draw and two defeats, finishing 11th to secure a place in the knockout playoffs.

However, the Polish side head into Thursday’s encounter on the back of two consecutive defeats in domestic competition, something head coach Niels Frederiksen will be hoping to correct.

Shakhtar Donetsk, on the other hand, come into the tie in excellent form. The Ukrainian giants finished sixth in the Conference League league phase after winning four, drawing one and losing just once in six matches.

Under the guidance of Arda Turan, Shakhtar have also been dominant domestically and currently sit at the top of the Ukrainian Premier League standings.

The visitors have won all three matches since returning from the winter break and have suffered only one competitive defeat away from home this season, highlighting the challenge awaiting Lech Poznan.

Timothy Ouma

Recent form

Lech Poznan – Conference League form:L W D W W W

Lech Poznan – form in all competitions:W W W W L L

Shakhtar Donetsk – Conference League form:W L W W W D

Shakhtar Donetsk – form in all competitions:L W W W W W

What time does Lech Poznan vs  Shakhtar Donetsk kick off?

The match will be played at the Enea Stadion in Poland and is scheduled to kick off at 11:00 PM (EAT) on Thursday, March 12, 2026.

Team news

Lech Poznan are expected to be without several players due to injury, including Filip Jagiełło, Kornel Lisman and Radoslaw Murawski.

Forward Mikael Ishak has been Lech Poznan’s standout performer in the competition with five goals in eight appearances and is expected to lead the attack alongside Luis Palma.

Shakhtar Donetsk will travel with a fully fit squad. Striker Lassina Traore has returned from injury in strong form, scoring four goals in three matches since the winter break, and is expected to spearhead the attack.

Possible starting lineups

Lech Poznan:

Mrozek; Pereira, Monka, Milic, Gurgul; Gholizadeh, Kozubal, Ouma, Bengtsson; Ishak, Palma.

Shakhtar Donetsk:

Riznyk; Konoplia, Bondar, Matviyenko, Henrique; Alisson, Pedrinho, Nazaryna, Gomes, Palmares; Traore.

Prediction

Lech Poznan will hope home advantage works in their favour, but their recent domestic setbacks could prove costly against a Shakhtar Donetsk side that has been in impressive form.

With the Ukrainian side carrying strong momentum, they could edge the contest and take a narrow advantage into the second leg.

Prediction: Lech Poznan 1-2 Shakhtar Donetsk.

Related

By Eduard Bănulescu

You’ve waited for this all season long, and what you get in the first proper UCL knockout stage is Galatasaray and Bodo/Glimt. Who should you choose to get the best  fantasy football Champions League results? �

If you’re looking to win and not just play around, I’ve got a few card picks that should improve your team.

Thinking of getting the big stars in? I’ve also thrown in a few names that you should avoid.

Why not win some free prizes while you’re enjoying the Champions League? Here’s a link to the fantasy football contest in FootballCoin.�

Any sure things? No, not this time. There are behemoths facing minions here, and that’s the way it’ll stay until the final. Even Bodo/Glimt has more than proven itself.

Newcastle will have plenty of work to do against FC Barcelona’s attacking might. But the general feeling is that there will be a way through the Catalans’ defence.

I like midfielders Pedri, Casado, Barnes and Tonali for this one. I think that Yamal justifies the high price you’ll need to pay for the card. And, I think that Cancelo could be a surprise pick worth taking a chance on.

I think Galatasaray has a very good chance against Liverpool. And if the qualification happens, the Turkish side will need to force the issue in the first leg.

Osimhen remains one of the finest strikers in the UCL and is looking to prove himself. Sanchez, Bardakci, Yilmaz did well against Juventus.

How about Liverpool’s terrific stats in fantasy football? To my mind, as things stand, only Van Dijk, Szoboszlai and Ekitike justify delving deep into your budget at this time.

Atlético vs. Tottenham can bring a few surprises. However, what we know so far is that Atleti has goal scorers, and Spurs can’t get the ball in the penalty area very often.

That’s why Oblak is my choice for the goalkeeper position. Sorloth is a must if you can afford the card. Llorente, Le Normand, Hancko, Ruggeri can bring points and are fine picks.

And, of course, Bayern Munich will follow up on its mission to win the Champions League trophy. Sure, they have a strong team. But Atalanta’s attacking style can surprise anyone.

Zappacosta, Samardzic, Isak, De Roon, or Scamacca have performed well in international games this season. I think these are players worth taking a risk on.

Finally, I see Bodo/Glimt qualifying. And, I can spot plenty of inexpensive picks for your fantasy football team. Can you really distrust Hauge, Hogh, Berg, or goalie Haikin after the season they’ve had in the Champions League? I don’t think so!

And These Are Players that You Should Avoid for the Round of 16 First Leg

We’re likely to see Lewandowski and Raphinha in attack for Barca, but I think it’s smart to wait for the second leg before picking them. I’m also a fan of Gordon, Barnes and Wissa, but I think that there are better options this time.

Liverpool’s a team filled with stars that you’re probably better off without. I think that Salah, Wirtz, Mac Allister and Kerkez might be players you can avoid for now.

Will UCL pride turn Igor Tudor’s Spurs into fighters? Hard to know, but players like Simons, Tel, Palhinha and even Solanke have certainly not impressed lately.

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Indian chess is having a moment. With young Grandmasters emerging from every corner of the country, the 64 squares have never looked more inviting. But mastery requires mentorship. You can’t become the next Vishwanathan Anand by simply playing blitz on your phone during a commute. You need structure. You need a guru.

Scouting for the best chess academy in India feels a bit like the opening phase of a game: critical and slightly overwhelming. Are you looking for a place that churns out Grandmasters, or a supportive environment to learn the basics?

Let’s cut through the noise. Here are the top academies shaping the next generation of strategic thinkers.�

Top Chess Academies in India 2026

S.No	Academy Name	Location
1	Chess Gurukul	Chennai
2	South Mumbai Chess Academy (SMCA)	Mumbai
3	Imperial Chess World	Mumbai
4	Archer Chess Academy	Online (India-wide)
5	The Knight Chess Academy	Multi-city (India)
6	Indian Chess Academy (ICS)	Mumbai
7	Victorious Chess Academy (VCA)	Pune
8	Bangalore Chess Academy	Bengaluru
9	Joseph D’Souza Academy for Chess & Education	Pune

1. Chess Gurukul (Chennai)

If you follow the Indian circuit, you know this name. Established in 2008, Chess Gurukul doesn’t mess around. They operate with a philosophy that learning strategies should be fun yet rigorously instructive.

They have produced contenders for the World Championship. Seriously. Their medal tally includes Bronze in the Chess Olympiad and over 40 medals in World Youth Championships. The focus here isn’t solely on tactics; they nurture decision-making and discipline. You get a systematic approach that caters to everyone.

Founder: GM R.B. Ramesh (Renowned Coach)

Location: Chennai, Tamil Nadu

Achievements: 40+ Medals in World Youth Championships

2. South Mumbai Chess Academy (SMCA)

Legacy matters. SMCA has been in the game since 1996. That is 28 years of shaping minds.

With a massive footprint across India and over 100,000 students trained, they operate like a well-oiled machine. They have expert coaches who can take you from “how does the knight move?” to FIDE mastery. They believe in building a vibrant community, so you aren’t training in isolation. You join a tribe.

Experience: 28+ Years

Reach: Global footprint with local branches

Headcount: 100+ Expert Coaches

3. Imperial Chess World (Mumbai)

”Choice determines destiny.” That is their motto. Imperial Chess World (ICW) brings a highly structured curriculum developed by Grandmasters.

Since 2016, they have expanded rapidly, now operating in five countries. What stands out is the tiered progression. You start at “New In Chess,” move through Beginner and Intermediate, and eventually hit the “Master in Chess” level where personal coaching kicks in. They analyze your performance weekly. No flying blind here.

Curriculum: Structured by GMs

Student Base: 5,000+ Trained

Feature: Weekly performance analysis

4. Archer Chess Academy

Maybe you prefer the digital route? Archer leverages technology to bring expert coaching to your living room.

Targeting kids aged 4 to 15, they use a “Remote Learning” program that actually yields results. They claim nearly all students surpass expected performance levels after completing their sessions. Grandmaster M.S. Thejkumar, the first GM from Karnataka, heads the expertise here. It is intense, focused, and convenient.

Primary Mode: Online/Remote Learning

Mentor: GM M.S. Thejkumar

Accolades: 52+ FIDE Rates, 100+ Champions

5. The Knight Chess Academy

Some places treat chess like a subject; The Knight treats it like a lifestyle.

Founder Arpita Das believes the game mirrors life— teaching patience, foresight, and resilience. They have FIDE-certified instructors who are specifically trained to be “kid-friendly.” If you want an environment that emphasises character building alongside the benefits of indoor games, this spot delivers. They balance the seriousness of the sport with the joy of playing.

Founder: Arpita Das

Specialty: Child-friendly, FIDE-certified instructors

Philosophy: Chess as a lifestyle

6. Indian Chess School (Mumbai)

Powered by Praful Zaveri, a globally certified FIDE trainer, this school is a heavyweight.

They use a mix of traditional classroom teaching and cutting-edge technology. They call it “State-of-the-Art” for a reason. The curriculum encourages you to question the status quo. They also organise tours to various destinations, providing holistic exposure. It feels less like a coaching center and more like an educational institute dedicated to royal battles.

Head Trainer: Praful Zaveri (FIDE Trainer)

Method: Classroom + Technology + Tournaments

Facility: State-of-the-art training hall

7. Victorious Chess Academy (Pune)

Established in 2013, their mission is simple: spread the beautiful game.

They have a presence in over 30 countries, which is impressive. They focus heavily on the psychological aspects of competition, i.e., time management, stress management, and strategic thinking. It’s not enough to know the moves; you need the mental fortitude to execute them under pressure.

Global Reach: Present in 30+ Countries

Focus: Strategic thinking & Stress management

Established: 2013

8. Bangalore Chess Academy

”To be the best, learn with the best.” FIDE Master Vedant Goswami runs the show here.

He has trained Olympiad teams (South Sudan and Djibouti), so the pedigree is undeniable. You can opt for classroom training in Bengaluru or go for online personal training. They even have a self-paced option via their portal. Flexibility is the name of the game here.

Director: FM Vedant Goswami

Options: Classroom, Online, Self-paced

Highlight: Experience training Olympiad teams

9. Joseph D’Souza Academy (Pune)

Established in 1999 by the late Joseph D’Souza, this academy uses the acclaimed Russian Chess School method.

Beginners get grilled on basics for months before moving up. It is rigorous and old school. And it has delivered measurable outcomes. They focus on grassroots coaching but have produced Grandmasters. If you respect tradition and hard work, you will fit right in.

Methodology: Russian Chess School system

Legacy: Established 1999

Focus: Grassroots to Advanced

Why the “Mental Gym” Matters

You might wonder why sports are important in a student’s life, especially a non-physical one.

Chess rewires your brain. It enhances critical thinking, improves memory, and teaches you that every action has a consequence. It is the ultimate mental workout.

But hey, you can’t neglect the physical side. A sharp mind needs a healthy body.

This is where Khelomore steps in. You’ve got the mental strategy sorted with these academies; now ensure you stay active.

Tap and Play: Book a badminton court or a football turf instantly.

Coaching: Get physical sports coaching right at your doorstep.

Community: Join tournaments and leagues.

Balance is everything.

Final Thoughts

Searching for the “best chess academy near me” is about compatibility. Do you want a strict, Russian-style drill sergeant? Or a tech-savvy mentor who teaches over Zoom?

If you’re not sure, you may take a demo class– check with the respective academies. See how the coach interacts with you. The right mentor brings out the potential you didn’t know you had.

FAQs

What is the ideal age to start chess training?

The ideal age to start chess training is between ages 5 and 7, according to Grandmasters. At this stage, children have developed sufficient attention spans to learn rules while their neuroplasticity allows them to absorb complex patterns and strategies rapidly.

How can Indian students get a FIDE rating?

To get a FIDE rating, you must register with the AICF and compete in official FIDE-rated tournaments. To publish a rating, you generally need to score at least 0.5 points against rated opponents across specific tournament conditions.

Does chess help with college admissions in India?

Yes, many top Indian universities, including Delhi University, have sports quota admissions for chess players. Applicants usually need valid certificates from state, national, or international competitions to qualify for these reserved seats.

Is expensive software required for beginner chess training?

No. Beginners can start effectively using free platforms like Lichess or basic apps. Professional database software like ChessBase and high-end engines are typically only necessary once a player reaches an intermediate or competitive tournament level.