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Ranking the Greatest Stoner Athletes of All-Time | Deadspin.com  Oct 24, 2025; Houston, Texas, USA; Houston Rockets forward Kevin Durant (7) reacts after a play during the third quarter against the Detroit Pistons at Toyota Center. Mandatory Credit: Troy Taormina-Imagn Images   Happy 4/20 to those who celebrate. It’s a national holiday for those who like to take a toke.Sorry, Stephen A. These athletes might not have stayed off the weeeeduh. But they are the greatest stoner athletes ever.Michael PhelpsIn this new world of popularized, recreational marijuana, it’s insane to look back at how the media scrutinized Phelps for photographs that surfaced in 2009 of the legendary swimmer using a marijuana pipe.Phelps didn’t lose any Olympic medals (that would’ve been insane), but he lost sponsorships and dealt with a three-month suspension from USA Swimming during the fallout from those photos.Outside of the pool, Phelps is a champion for men’s mental health and has opened up about his own battles about depression and anxiety. Inside of the pool, Phelps is one of the greatest athletes ever, retiring with 28 Olympic medals, 23 of them golden.Ricky WilliamsOne of the most famous weed lovers in sports, Williams struggled with suspensions due to his marijuana use during his 11 years in the NFL.The Heisman trophy winner said that he had back-to-back 300+ yard rushing games after he smoked marijuana for the first time in college. Ever since, he became an advocate for the plant’s benefits, including mental health support and relaxation.Kevin DurantIn an interview with David Letterman three years ago, Durant opened up about his marijuana use.“I’m high right now,” the legendary forward quipped during the interview.Durant believes that the NBA should normalize cannabis use, stating that it helps “clear the distractions out of your brain.” He tried to meet with NBA commissioner Adam Silver about the topic, but got high before the meeting (that’s a real story).Nate Diaz Sep 10, 2022; Las Vegas, Nevada, USA; Nate Diaz (red gloves) fights Tony Ferguson (blue gloves) during UFC 279 at T-Mobile Arena. Mandatory Credit: Joe Camporeale-Imagn Images    The former UFC star once referred to himself as the most athletic stoner besides Phelps.He’d light up at UFC press conferences. His brother, Nick Diaz, has dealt with suspensions in MMA for cannabis usage.Diaz won 22 fights in the UFC and endeared himself to fight fans everywhere because of his extremely laid back personality. Leading up to his 2023 boxing match against Jake Paul, Diaz’s team sought therapeutic exemptions for marijuana in their fighter’s drug tests, but this was denied by Texas regulators.Bill WaltonYou really thought we’d complete this article without a hat tip to an OG?Walton was known as the ultimate hippie in the NBA. He was a vocal Deadhead, would dress in vibrant outfits during his broadcasting career, and was very open about his previous marijuana usage.He passed away in 2024, but his legacy will live on forever.   #Ranking #Greatest #Stoner #Athletes #AllTime #Deadspin.com

Ranking the Greatest Stoner Athletes of All-Time | Deadspin.com
Ranking the Greatest Stoner Athletes of All-Time | Deadspin.com  Oct 24, 2025; Houston, Texas, USA; Houston Rockets forward Kevin Durant (7) reacts after a play during the third quarter against the Detroit Pistons at Toyota Center. Mandatory Credit: Troy Taormina-Imagn Images   Happy 4/20 to those who celebrate. It’s a national holiday for those who like to take a toke.Sorry, Stephen A. These athletes might not have stayed off the weeeeduh. But they are the greatest stoner athletes ever.Michael PhelpsIn this new world of popularized, recreational marijuana, it’s insane to look back at how the media scrutinized Phelps for photographs that surfaced in 2009 of the legendary swimmer using a marijuana pipe.Phelps didn’t lose any Olympic medals (that would’ve been insane), but he lost sponsorships and dealt with a three-month suspension from USA Swimming during the fallout from those photos.Outside of the pool, Phelps is a champion for men’s mental health and has opened up about his own battles about depression and anxiety. Inside of the pool, Phelps is one of the greatest athletes ever, retiring with 28 Olympic medals, 23 of them golden.Ricky WilliamsOne of the most famous weed lovers in sports, Williams struggled with suspensions due to his marijuana use during his 11 years in the NFL.The Heisman trophy winner said that he had back-to-back 300+ yard rushing games after he smoked marijuana for the first time in college. Ever since, he became an advocate for the plant’s benefits, including mental health support and relaxation.Kevin DurantIn an interview with David Letterman three years ago, Durant opened up about his marijuana use.“I’m high right now,” the legendary forward quipped during the interview.Durant believes that the NBA should normalize cannabis use, stating that it helps “clear the distractions out of your brain.” He tried to meet with NBA commissioner Adam Silver about the topic, but got high before the meeting (that’s a real story).Nate Diaz Sep 10, 2022; Las Vegas, Nevada, USA; Nate Diaz (red gloves) fights Tony Ferguson (blue gloves) during UFC 279 at T-Mobile Arena. Mandatory Credit: Joe Camporeale-Imagn Images    The former UFC star once referred to himself as the most athletic stoner besides Phelps.He’d light up at UFC press conferences. His brother, Nick Diaz, has dealt with suspensions in MMA for cannabis usage.Diaz won 22 fights in the UFC and endeared himself to fight fans everywhere because of his extremely laid back personality. Leading up to his 2023 boxing match against Jake Paul, Diaz’s team sought therapeutic exemptions for marijuana in their fighter’s drug tests, but this was denied by Texas regulators.Bill WaltonYou really thought we’d complete this article without a hat tip to an OG?Walton was known as the ultimate hippie in the NBA. He was a vocal Deadhead, would dress in vibrant outfits during his broadcasting career, and was very open about his previous marijuana usage.He passed away in 2024, but his legacy will live on forever.   #Ranking #Greatest #Stoner #Athletes #AllTime #Deadspin.comOct 24, 2025; Houston, Texas, USA; Houston Rockets forward Kevin Durant (7) reacts after a play during the third quarter against the Detroit Pistons at Toyota Center. Mandatory Credit: Troy Taormina-Imagn Images

Happy 4/20 to those who celebrate. It’s a national holiday for those who like to take a toke.

Sorry, Stephen A. These athletes might not have stayed off the weeeeduh. But they are the greatest stoner athletes ever.

Michael Phelps

In this new world of popularized, recreational marijuana, it’s insane to look back at how the media scrutinized Phelps for photographs that surfaced in 2009 of the legendary swimmer using a marijuana pipe.

Phelps didn’t lose any Olympic medals (that would’ve been insane), but he lost sponsorships and dealt with a three-month suspension from USA Swimming during the fallout from those photos.

Outside of the pool, Phelps is a champion for men’s mental health and has opened up about his own battles about depression and anxiety. Inside of the pool, Phelps is one of the greatest athletes ever, retiring with 28 Olympic medals, 23 of them golden.

Ricky Williams

One of the most famous weed lovers in sports, Williams struggled with suspensions due to his marijuana use during his 11 years in the NFL.

The Heisman trophy winner said that he had back-to-back 300+ yard rushing games after he smoked marijuana for the first time in college. Ever since, he became an advocate for the plant’s benefits, including mental health support and relaxation.

Kevin Durant

In an interview with David Letterman three years ago, Durant opened up about his marijuana use.

“I’m high right now,” the legendary forward quipped during the interview.

Durant believes that the NBA should normalize cannabis use, stating that it helps “clear the distractions out of your brain.” He tried to meet with NBA commissioner Adam Silver about the topic, but got high before the meeting (that’s a real story).

Nate Diaz


Sep 10, 2022; Las Vegas, Nevada, USA; Nate Diaz (red gloves) fights Tony Ferguson (blue gloves) during UFC 279 at T-Mobile Arena. Mandatory Credit: Joe Camporeale-Imagn ImagesSep 10, 2022; Las Vegas, Nevada, USA; Nate Diaz (red gloves) fights Tony Ferguson (blue gloves) during UFC 279 at T-Mobile Arena. Mandatory Credit: Joe Camporeale-Imagn Images

The former UFC star once referred to himself as the most athletic stoner besides Phelps.

He’d light up at UFC press conferences. His brother, Nick Diaz, has dealt with suspensions in MMA for cannabis usage.

Diaz won 22 fights in the UFC and endeared himself to fight fans everywhere because of his extremely laid back personality. Leading up to his 2023 boxing match against Jake Paul, Diaz’s team sought therapeutic exemptions for marijuana in their fighter’s drug tests, but this was denied by Texas regulators.

Bill Walton

You really thought we’d complete this article without a hat tip to an OG?

Walton was known as the ultimate hippie in the NBA. He was a vocal Deadhead, would dress in vibrant outfits during his broadcasting career, and was very open about his previous marijuana usage.

He passed away in 2024, but his legacy will live on forever.

#Ranking #Greatest #Stoner #Athletes #AllTime #Deadspin.com

Oct 24, 2025; Houston, Texas, USA; Houston Rockets forward Kevin Durant (7) reacts after a play during the third quarter against the Detroit Pistons at Toyota Center. Mandatory Credit: Troy Taormina-Imagn Images

Happy 4/20 to those who celebrate. It’s a national holiday for those who like to take a toke.

Sorry, Stephen A. These athletes might not have stayed off the weeeeduh. But they are the greatest stoner athletes ever.

Michael Phelps

In this new world of popularized, recreational marijuana, it’s insane to look back at how the media scrutinized Phelps for photographs that surfaced in 2009 of the legendary swimmer using a marijuana pipe.

Phelps didn’t lose any Olympic medals (that would’ve been insane), but he lost sponsorships and dealt with a three-month suspension from USA Swimming during the fallout from those photos.

Outside of the pool, Phelps is a champion for men’s mental health and has opened up about his own battles about depression and anxiety. Inside of the pool, Phelps is one of the greatest athletes ever, retiring with 28 Olympic medals, 23 of them golden.

Ricky Williams

One of the most famous weed lovers in sports, Williams struggled with suspensions due to his marijuana use during his 11 years in the NFL.

The Heisman trophy winner said that he had back-to-back 300+ yard rushing games after he smoked marijuana for the first time in college. Ever since, he became an advocate for the plant’s benefits, including mental health support and relaxation.

Kevin Durant

In an interview with David Letterman three years ago, Durant opened up about his marijuana use.

“I’m high right now,” the legendary forward quipped during the interview.

Durant believes that the NBA should normalize cannabis use, stating that it helps “clear the distractions out of your brain.” He tried to meet with NBA commissioner Adam Silver about the topic, but got high before the meeting (that’s a real story).

Nate Diaz

Sep 10, 2022; Las Vegas, Nevada, USA; Nate Diaz (red gloves) fights Tony Ferguson (blue gloves) during UFC 279 at T-Mobile Arena. Mandatory Credit: Joe Camporeale-Imagn ImagesSep 10, 2022; Las Vegas, Nevada, USA; Nate Diaz (red gloves) fights Tony Ferguson (blue gloves) during UFC 279 at T-Mobile Arena. Mandatory Credit: Joe Camporeale-Imagn Images

The former UFC star once referred to himself as the most athletic stoner besides Phelps.

He’d light up at UFC press conferences. His brother, Nick Diaz, has dealt with suspensions in MMA for cannabis usage.

Diaz won 22 fights in the UFC and endeared himself to fight fans everywhere because of his extremely laid back personality. Leading up to his 2023 boxing match against Jake Paul, Diaz’s team sought therapeutic exemptions for marijuana in their fighter’s drug tests, but this was denied by Texas regulators.

Bill Walton

You really thought we’d complete this article without a hat tip to an OG?

Walton was known as the ultimate hippie in the NBA. He was a vocal Deadhead, would dress in vibrant outfits during his broadcasting career, and was very open about his previous marijuana usage.

He passed away in 2024, but his legacy will live on forever.

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#Ranking #Greatest #Stoner #Athletes #AllTime #Deadspin.com

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Sanjay Manjrekar on MI’s struggles: Teams can go easy on Bumrah because they can easily target other bowlers <div id="content-body-70883891" itemprop="articleBody"><p>Mumbai Indians’ stuttering start to IPL 2026 has predictably drawn attention to Jasprit Bumrah. Four defeats in five games, bottom of the table, and a wicketless return alongside an economy rate of 8.63, his highest since 2016, paint a stark picture. But Sanjay Manjrekar offers an explanation that shifts the lens from output to context.</p><p>“Players like Jasprit Bumrah, who play across formats for India, have to switch on and switch off. If you look at Kagiso Rabada, when he plays a Test match for South Africa, or in big World Cup moments, there’s a clear difference compared to when he plays a random IPL game. You can see where he conserves energy and where he goes all out,” he said on <i>Sportstar’s Insight Edge</i> podcast.</p><div class="inline_embed article-block-item"><p>[embed]https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=58JRdBRAbIk[/embed]</p></div><p>Manjrekar’s reading is less about decline and more about design, both from Bumrah and the opposition. “My theory is this: team meetings probably revolve around one central message, don’t try to hit Bumrah and get out to him. That happens at the international level as well.”</p><p>It creates an unusual problem. “He’s one bowler in the IPL against whom the fewest big shots are attempted. So he doesn’t get that small advantage bowlers often rely on, wickets when batters are trying to slog. They simply don’t take that risk against him.”</p><div class=" article-picture center"><img src="https://ss-i.thgim.com/public/incoming/jhjdpu/article70884148.ece/alternates/FREE_1200/Thumb.png" data-original="https://ss-i.thgim.com/public/incoming/jhjdpu/article70884148.ece/alternates/FREE_1200/Thumb.png" alt="" class=" lazy" width="100%" height="100%"/></div><p>There is also a visible shift in execution. “Add to that the fatigue factor. We’re not seeing Bumrah bowl those beautiful, hard seam deliveries as consistently. You saw it against Vaibhav Sooryavanshi as well, when he was hit, his response was to go to the slower ball. That’s partly about conserving energy while still trying to take a wicket.”</p><p>The larger impact, though, is tactical. “And the advantage against Mumbai Indians is this: if you choose to go easy on Bumrah, there are enough other bowlers in that attack to target.”</p><p class="publish-time" id="end-of-article">Published on Apr 20, 2026</p></div> #Sanjay #Manjrekar #MIs #struggles #Teams #easy #Bumrah #easily #target #bowlers

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GT vs MI IPL 2026: Who is Danish Malewar, Vidarbha batter who is set to make his debut against Gujarat Titans? <div id="content-body-70884956" itemprop="articleBody"><p>Vidarbha batter Danish Malewar is set to make his debut for Mumbai Indians against Gujarat Titans at the Narendra Modi Stadium on Monday.</p><p>The 22-year-old was acquired by Mumbai Indians for his base price of Rs. 30 lakh at the 2026 IPL auction.</p><p><b>RELATED | <a href="https://sportstar.thehindu.com/cricket/ipl/gt-vs-mi-live-score-ipl-2026-gujarat-titans-mumbai-indians-live-updates-april-20/article70884285.ece" target="_blank" rel="nofollow">GT vs MI Live Score</a></b></p><p>Malewar, who hails from Nagpur, is a top order batter for Vidarbha in the domestic circuit. The youngster had a strong showing in the 2024-25 edition of the Ranji Trophy- he scored 783 runs in nine matches at an average of 52, including two centuries and six half centuries.</p><p>With Rohit Sharma yet to regain full fitness, Malewar is expected to open the batting alongside Quinton de Kock in the first innings after GT captain Shubman Gill won the toss and chose to bowl first.</p><p class="publish-time" id="end-of-article">Published on Apr 20, 2026</p></div> #IPL #Danish #Malewar #Vidarbha #batter #set #debut #Gujarat #Titans

Shillong Lajong FC was held to a goalless draw by a resolute Dempo SC in its Indian Football League Championship Phase fixture at the SSA Stadium in Shillong on Sunday.

The result kept Shillong second in the table with 18 points, seven behind leader Diamond Harbour FC, while Dempo remained sixth with 10 points.

Shillong named an unchanged starting XI from its last match, while Dempo made two changes, with Sebastián Gutiérrez Atehortua and Vieri Colaco replacing Ariston Costa and Richmond Kwasi Owusu.

Shillong imposed itself from the outset, applying immediate pressure on Dempo straight from kick-off. Inside the opening minute, a long ball into the box created an early opening as Phrangki Buam rose to meet it, but the defence recovered in time to clear.

The host sustained a high tempo in the early exchanges, unsettling Dempo’s backline before the visitor slowed the pace and attempted to play out from the back.

Both sides showed a clear inclination to build through the flanks, with Buam and Ephraim Lalremtluanga stretching play for Shillong, while Saiesh Bagkar and Kapil Hoble looked to supply Gutiérrez and Marcus Leric Jr Joseph centrally.

Shillong’s sharpness in possession, aided by strong home support, translated into early control. In the eighth minute, Lamlallian found space in the final third and struck at goal, but Aubin Kouakou positioned himself well to block.

Dempo’s attempts to construct from deep led to repeated turnovers under Shillong’s high press, while Everbrightson Sana Mylliempdah tested Ashish Sibi with a skidding effort from distance that the goalkeeper handled securely.

ALSO READ: Atletico Madrid’s Barrios to miss Arsenal Champions League semifinal tie with thigh injury

The clearest opening of the first half came in the 34th minute when Kouakou lost possession, allowing Sana to break through on goal. Jose Luis Moreno Pena recovered with a well-timed sliding challenge to prevent the shot.

Shillong continued to threaten. In the 38th minute, Damaitphang Lyngdoh delivered a low cross across the six-yard area that evaded any finishing touch. Five minutes later, Buam’s shot from a tight angle was parried by Sibi before Lyngdoh struck the woodwork from distance.

Shillong resumed on the front foot after the interval, but Dempo produced a moment of quality in the 58th minute as Gutierrez connected cleanly with a first-time volley from a tight angle, forcing Ranit Sarkar into a sharp save.

The visitor came close again in the 67th minute from a set-piece, but Sarkar reacted well before Joseph fired over the bar from the rebound.

Shillong pushed hard for a breakthrough and came agonisingly close in stoppage time, when substitute Abelson Jachi forced a spill from Sibi and Kenstar Kharshong lifted the rebound over the goalkeeper, only to see his effort strike the crossbar.

Shillong’s inability to convert dominance into goals proved decisive. Despite registering 20 shots, including five on target, it could not breach a disciplined Dempo defence.

Published on Apr 26, 2026

#IFL #Dempo #frustrates #Shillong #Lajong #goalless #Championship #Phase #clash">IFL 2025-26: Dempo frustrates Shillong Lajong in goalless Championship Phase clash  Shillong Lajong FC was held to a goalless draw by a resolute Dempo SC in its Indian Football League Championship Phase fixture at the SSA Stadium in Shillong on Sunday.The result kept Shillong second in the table with 18 points, seven behind leader Diamond Harbour FC, while Dempo remained sixth with 10 points.Shillong named an unchanged starting XI from its last match, while Dempo made two changes, with Sebastián Gutiérrez Atehortua and Vieri Colaco replacing Ariston Costa and Richmond Kwasi Owusu.Shillong imposed itself from the outset, applying immediate pressure on Dempo straight from kick-off. Inside the opening minute, a long ball into the box created an early opening as Phrangki Buam rose to meet it, but the defence recovered in time to clear.The host sustained a high tempo in the early exchanges, unsettling Dempo’s backline before the visitor slowed the pace and attempted to play out from the back.Both sides showed a clear inclination to build through the flanks, with Buam and Ephraim Lalremtluanga stretching play for Shillong, while Saiesh Bagkar and Kapil Hoble looked to supply Gutiérrez and Marcus Leric Jr Joseph centrally.Shillong’s sharpness in possession, aided by strong home support, translated into early control. In the eighth minute, Lamlallian found space in the final third and struck at goal, but Aubin Kouakou positioned himself well to block.Dempo’s attempts to construct from deep led to repeated turnovers under Shillong’s high press, while Everbrightson Sana Mylliempdah tested Ashish Sibi with a skidding effort from distance that the goalkeeper handled securely.ALSO READ: Atletico Madrid’s Barrios to miss Arsenal Champions League semifinal tie with thigh injuryThe clearest opening of the first half came in the 34th minute when Kouakou lost possession, allowing Sana to break through on goal. Jose Luis Moreno Pena recovered with a well-timed sliding challenge to prevent the shot.Shillong continued to threaten. In the 38th minute, Damaitphang Lyngdoh delivered a low cross across the six-yard area that evaded any finishing touch. Five minutes later, Buam’s shot from a tight angle was parried by Sibi before Lyngdoh struck the woodwork from distance.Shillong resumed on the front foot after the interval, but Dempo produced a moment of quality in the 58th minute as Gutierrez connected cleanly with a first-time volley from a tight angle, forcing Ranit Sarkar into a sharp save.The visitor came close again in the 67th minute from a set-piece, but Sarkar reacted well before Joseph fired over the bar from the rebound.Shillong pushed hard for a breakthrough and came agonisingly close in stoppage time, when substitute Abelson Jachi forced a spill from Sibi and Kenstar Kharshong lifted the rebound over the goalkeeper, only to see his effort strike the crossbar.Shillong’s inability to convert dominance into goals proved decisive. Despite registering 20 shots, including five on target, it could not breach a disciplined Dempo defence.Published on Apr 26, 2026  #IFL #Dempo #frustrates #Shillong #Lajong #goalless #Championship #Phase #clash

Atletico Madrid’s Barrios to miss Arsenal Champions League semifinal tie with thigh injury

The clearest opening of the first half came in the 34th minute when Kouakou lost possession, allowing Sana to break through on goal. Jose Luis Moreno Pena recovered with a well-timed sliding challenge to prevent the shot.

Shillong continued to threaten. In the 38th minute, Damaitphang Lyngdoh delivered a low cross across the six-yard area that evaded any finishing touch. Five minutes later, Buam’s shot from a tight angle was parried by Sibi before Lyngdoh struck the woodwork from distance.

Shillong resumed on the front foot after the interval, but Dempo produced a moment of quality in the 58th minute as Gutierrez connected cleanly with a first-time volley from a tight angle, forcing Ranit Sarkar into a sharp save.

The visitor came close again in the 67th minute from a set-piece, but Sarkar reacted well before Joseph fired over the bar from the rebound.

Shillong pushed hard for a breakthrough and came agonisingly close in stoppage time, when substitute Abelson Jachi forced a spill from Sibi and Kenstar Kharshong lifted the rebound over the goalkeeper, only to see his effort strike the crossbar.

Shillong’s inability to convert dominance into goals proved decisive. Despite registering 20 shots, including five on target, it could not breach a disciplined Dempo defence.

Published on Apr 26, 2026

#IFL #Dempo #frustrates #Shillong #Lajong #goalless #Championship #Phase #clash">IFL 2025-26: Dempo frustrates Shillong Lajong in goalless Championship Phase clash

Shillong Lajong FC was held to a goalless draw by a resolute Dempo SC in its Indian Football League Championship Phase fixture at the SSA Stadium in Shillong on Sunday.

The result kept Shillong second in the table with 18 points, seven behind leader Diamond Harbour FC, while Dempo remained sixth with 10 points.

Shillong named an unchanged starting XI from its last match, while Dempo made two changes, with Sebastián Gutiérrez Atehortua and Vieri Colaco replacing Ariston Costa and Richmond Kwasi Owusu.

Shillong imposed itself from the outset, applying immediate pressure on Dempo straight from kick-off. Inside the opening minute, a long ball into the box created an early opening as Phrangki Buam rose to meet it, but the defence recovered in time to clear.

The host sustained a high tempo in the early exchanges, unsettling Dempo’s backline before the visitor slowed the pace and attempted to play out from the back.

Both sides showed a clear inclination to build through the flanks, with Buam and Ephraim Lalremtluanga stretching play for Shillong, while Saiesh Bagkar and Kapil Hoble looked to supply Gutiérrez and Marcus Leric Jr Joseph centrally.

Shillong’s sharpness in possession, aided by strong home support, translated into early control. In the eighth minute, Lamlallian found space in the final third and struck at goal, but Aubin Kouakou positioned himself well to block.

Dempo’s attempts to construct from deep led to repeated turnovers under Shillong’s high press, while Everbrightson Sana Mylliempdah tested Ashish Sibi with a skidding effort from distance that the goalkeeper handled securely.

ALSO READ: Atletico Madrid’s Barrios to miss Arsenal Champions League semifinal tie with thigh injury

The clearest opening of the first half came in the 34th minute when Kouakou lost possession, allowing Sana to break through on goal. Jose Luis Moreno Pena recovered with a well-timed sliding challenge to prevent the shot.

Shillong continued to threaten. In the 38th minute, Damaitphang Lyngdoh delivered a low cross across the six-yard area that evaded any finishing touch. Five minutes later, Buam’s shot from a tight angle was parried by Sibi before Lyngdoh struck the woodwork from distance.

Shillong resumed on the front foot after the interval, but Dempo produced a moment of quality in the 58th minute as Gutierrez connected cleanly with a first-time volley from a tight angle, forcing Ranit Sarkar into a sharp save.

The visitor came close again in the 67th minute from a set-piece, but Sarkar reacted well before Joseph fired over the bar from the rebound.

Shillong pushed hard for a breakthrough and came agonisingly close in stoppage time, when substitute Abelson Jachi forced a spill from Sibi and Kenstar Kharshong lifted the rebound over the goalkeeper, only to see his effort strike the crossbar.

Shillong’s inability to convert dominance into goals proved decisive. Despite registering 20 shots, including five on target, it could not breach a disciplined Dempo defence.

Published on Apr 26, 2026

#IFL #Dempo #frustrates #Shillong #Lajong #goalless #Championship #Phase #clash
Deadspin | Dodgers, Cubs close series with potential pitching duel  Apr 13, 2026; Los Angeles, California, USA; Los Angeles Dodgers pitcher Justin Wrobleski (70) throws a pitch against the New York Mets during the first inning at Dodger Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Jayne Kamin-Oncea-Imagn Images   A resurgent Los Angeles Dodgers’ offense will take on the visiting Chicago Cubs in the rubber match of a three-game series on Sunday afternoon.  The Dodgers snapped the Cubs’ 10-game winning streak with a 12-4 win on Saturday night.  Teoscar Hernandez was 2-for-3 with two runs and two RBIs as Los Angeles racked up 14 hits. Hitless in his previous three games, Hernandez lined a two-RBI single up the middle in a six-run fourth inning.  “I haven’t been on base for the last couple games, but it is OK, everyone goes through that,” he said. “Hopefully I can keep up doing that and be consistent with it.”  Shohei Ohtani also snapped an 0-for-12 skid over his previous three games when he led off the game with an opposite-field single.   Andy Pages, Hyeseong Kim and Alex Freeland posted two-hit games as the Dodgers scored in double digits for a major league-leading fifth time this season. The Cubs have scored in double figures in four games.  Los Angeles manager Dave Roberts said Max Muncy will be out on Sunday. The Dodgers third baseman felt sick yet still hit his ninth home run of the season, a two-run shot in the third.  “Muncy wasn’t feeling well,” Roberts said. “We talked and said to him, give us what you got, three at-bats. That’s what we did and felt good about getting him three at-bats. Max will be down tomorrow and be back in there on Monday.”  Left-hander Justin Wrobleski (3-0, 1.88 ERA) is slated to start for the Dodgers. He covered seven innings in his most recent start and earned the decision in a 12-3 road win over the Colorado Rockies on Monday, yielding one run on eight hits with three strikeouts.   In his past three starts — all wins– he has allowed only two runs in a combined 20 innings. He never has faced the Cubs.  “At the end of the day I am going out there and doing the same thing every time,” Wrobleski said. “That’s trying to fill the zone, create contact and see what happens.”  Chicago’s scheduled starter is Shota Imanaga (2-1, 2.17), who earned the win when he surrendered one run on three hits over seven innings in his last start, a 7-4 home win against the Philadelphia Phillies on Tuesday.  The lefty is 1-0 with a 1.64 ERA on the road this season. In four career starts against Los Angeles, Imanaga has a 1-0 record with a 3.48 ERA.  “I come to the field every day, whether it’s a start day or not, with the same responsibility,” Imanaga said. “I know if someone gets injured I can help cover them. We have a very tight circle with full support.”  He has a stellar defense in the field — the Cubs are ranked No. 1 on FanGraphs with 17 defensive runs saved — and knows he can pitch to contact.  “It helps with my confidence as well, knowing that behind me, the Cubs’ defense is the best of all 30 teams,” Imanaga said. “If I can control and avoid damage and extra-base hits, I know they are going to get outs. So it’s a big confidence booster.”  –Field Level Media   #Deadspin #Dodgers #Cubs #close #series #potential #pitching #duelApr 13, 2026; Los Angeles, California, USA; Los Angeles Dodgers pitcher Justin Wrobleski (70) throws a pitch against the New York Mets during the first inning at Dodger Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Jayne Kamin-Oncea-Imagn Images

A resurgent Los Angeles Dodgers’ offense will take on the visiting Chicago Cubs in the rubber match of a three-game series on Sunday afternoon.

The Dodgers snapped the Cubs’ 10-game winning streak with a 12-4 win on Saturday night.

Teoscar Hernandez was 2-for-3 with two runs and two RBIs as Los Angeles racked up 14 hits. Hitless in his previous three games, Hernandez lined a two-RBI single up the middle in a six-run fourth inning.

“I haven’t been on base for the last couple games, but it is OK, everyone goes through that,” he said. “Hopefully I can keep up doing that and be consistent with it.”

Shohei Ohtani also snapped an 0-for-12 skid over his previous three games when he led off the game with an opposite-field single.

Andy Pages, Hyeseong Kim and Alex Freeland posted two-hit games as the Dodgers scored in double digits for a major league-leading fifth time this season. The Cubs have scored in double figures in four games.

Los Angeles manager Dave Roberts said Max Muncy will be out on Sunday. The Dodgers third baseman felt sick yet still hit his ninth home run of the season, a two-run shot in the third.

“Muncy wasn’t feeling well,” Roberts said. “We talked and said to him, give us what you got, three at-bats. That’s what we did and felt good about getting him three at-bats. Max will be down tomorrow and be back in there on Monday.”


Left-hander Justin Wrobleski (3-0, 1.88 ERA) is slated to start for the Dodgers. He covered seven innings in his most recent start and earned the decision in a 12-3 road win over the Colorado Rockies on Monday, yielding one run on eight hits with three strikeouts.

In his past three starts — all wins– he has allowed only two runs in a combined 20 innings. He never has faced the Cubs.

“At the end of the day I am going out there and doing the same thing every time,” Wrobleski said. “That’s trying to fill the zone, create contact and see what happens.”

Chicago’s scheduled starter is Shota Imanaga (2-1, 2.17), who earned the win when he surrendered one run on three hits over seven innings in his last start, a 7-4 home win against the Philadelphia Phillies on Tuesday.

The lefty is 1-0 with a 1.64 ERA on the road this season. In four career starts against Los Angeles, Imanaga has a 1-0 record with a 3.48 ERA.

“I come to the field every day, whether it’s a start day or not, with the same responsibility,” Imanaga said. “I know if someone gets injured I can help cover them. We have a very tight circle with full support.”

He has a stellar defense in the field — the Cubs are ranked No. 1 on FanGraphs with 17 defensive runs saved — and knows he can pitch to contact.

“It helps with my confidence as well, knowing that behind me, the Cubs’ defense is the best of all 30 teams,” Imanaga said. “If I can control and avoid damage and extra-base hits, I know they are going to get outs. So it’s a big confidence booster.”

–Field Level Media

#Deadspin #Dodgers #Cubs #close #series #potential #pitching #duel">Deadspin | Dodgers, Cubs close series with potential pitching duel  Apr 13, 2026; Los Angeles, California, USA; Los Angeles Dodgers pitcher Justin Wrobleski (70) throws a pitch against the New York Mets during the first inning at Dodger Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Jayne Kamin-Oncea-Imagn Images   A resurgent Los Angeles Dodgers’ offense will take on the visiting Chicago Cubs in the rubber match of a three-game series on Sunday afternoon.  The Dodgers snapped the Cubs’ 10-game winning streak with a 12-4 win on Saturday night.  Teoscar Hernandez was 2-for-3 with two runs and two RBIs as Los Angeles racked up 14 hits. Hitless in his previous three games, Hernandez lined a two-RBI single up the middle in a six-run fourth inning.  “I haven’t been on base for the last couple games, but it is OK, everyone goes through that,” he said. “Hopefully I can keep up doing that and be consistent with it.”  Shohei Ohtani also snapped an 0-for-12 skid over his previous three games when he led off the game with an opposite-field single.   Andy Pages, Hyeseong Kim and Alex Freeland posted two-hit games as the Dodgers scored in double digits for a major league-leading fifth time this season. The Cubs have scored in double figures in four games.  Los Angeles manager Dave Roberts said Max Muncy will be out on Sunday. The Dodgers third baseman felt sick yet still hit his ninth home run of the season, a two-run shot in the third.  “Muncy wasn’t feeling well,” Roberts said. “We talked and said to him, give us what you got, three at-bats. That’s what we did and felt good about getting him three at-bats. Max will be down tomorrow and be back in there on Monday.”  Left-hander Justin Wrobleski (3-0, 1.88 ERA) is slated to start for the Dodgers. He covered seven innings in his most recent start and earned the decision in a 12-3 road win over the Colorado Rockies on Monday, yielding one run on eight hits with three strikeouts.   In his past three starts — all wins– he has allowed only two runs in a combined 20 innings. He never has faced the Cubs.  “At the end of the day I am going out there and doing the same thing every time,” Wrobleski said. “That’s trying to fill the zone, create contact and see what happens.”  Chicago’s scheduled starter is Shota Imanaga (2-1, 2.17), who earned the win when he surrendered one run on three hits over seven innings in his last start, a 7-4 home win against the Philadelphia Phillies on Tuesday.  The lefty is 1-0 with a 1.64 ERA on the road this season. In four career starts against Los Angeles, Imanaga has a 1-0 record with a 3.48 ERA.  “I come to the field every day, whether it’s a start day or not, with the same responsibility,” Imanaga said. “I know if someone gets injured I can help cover them. We have a very tight circle with full support.”  He has a stellar defense in the field — the Cubs are ranked No. 1 on FanGraphs with 17 defensive runs saved — and knows he can pitch to contact.  “It helps with my confidence as well, knowing that behind me, the Cubs’ defense is the best of all 30 teams,” Imanaga said. “If I can control and avoid damage and extra-base hits, I know they are going to get outs. So it’s a big confidence booster.”  –Field Level Media   #Deadspin #Dodgers #Cubs #close #series #potential #pitching #duel

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