Sports General Knowledge

The Merdeka Tournament (Malay for 'Independence Tournament') is a prestigious international football competition hosted by Malaysia since 1957, commemorating Malaysia's independence from British rule. It attracts teams from across Asia.

Correct answer is (3). 

The Thomas Cup is the premier international men's team badminton championship, often considered the World Cup of badminton. It was first contested in 1948-1949 and is named after Sir George Thomas, a legendary badminton and tennis player. The Uber Cup is the women's equivalent.

The Hopman Cup is an annual international team tennis tournament held in Australia. It is named after Harry Hopman, a legendary Australian tennis player and coach. The event features mixed-gender teams from different countries competing in tennis matches.

The 'silly point' is a fielding position in cricket located on the off side, close to the batsman. It's part of the close catching infield and typically used to catch edges from defensive strokes. Hockey, chess, and golf do not use this terminology.

In golf, clubs are categorized into woods, irons, and putters. Irons are numbered clubs (3-iron, 4-iron, etc.) used for mid-range shots. The term 'Iron' specifically refers to the metal construction of these clubs, distinguishing them from wooden drivers and putters. This is standard golf equipment terminology.

While hockey is often considered India's national game due to the country's extraordinary historical success in Olympic hockey (8 gold medals), the Government of India has not officially declared any sport as the national game. However, hockey receives significant government support and is widely regarded as the de facto national sport.

Lords is associated with cricket.

A ground stroke in tennis is any shot made after the ball has bounced once on the court. This includes both forehand and backhand strokes. The term is not typically used in cricket, badminton, or hockey, which have their own specific terminology for shots.

Dribbling is a technique used in basketball, football (soccer), and hockey to control the ball while moving. Baseball does not involve dribbling as it's a bat-and-ball game where players hit and run, not control the ball through movement. The question asks for the exception.

The Thomas Cup is the premier international badminton championship for men's teams. It was first held in 1948-49 and is named after Sir George Thomas, a badminton player. It is not associated with billiards, lawn tennis, or table tennis, which have their own world championships.

The butterfly is one of the four competitive swimming strokes, along with freestyle, backstroke, and breaststroke. It requires significant upper body strength and coordination. The term is not associated with kabaddi, boxing, or wrestling, which have their own specific techniques and terminology.

Madison Square Garden has been historically most famous for boxing, hosting legendary fights including Muhammad Ali vs Joe Frazier ('The Fight of the Century'). While it does host basketball (New York Knicks), concerts, and other events, its most iconic association in sports history is with boxing. It's often called 'The Mecca of Boxing'. Tennis and baseball are not associated with this venue.

While the United States doesn't have an officially designated national sport by law, baseball is traditionally and culturally considered the 'national pastime' of America. It has been called 'America's Pastime' since the 19th century. Football, basketball, and volleyball are all popular but don't hold the same cultural designation as baseball.

The Rangaswamy Cup is one of India's most prestigious hockey tournaments, established in 1928. It has been won by major teams like Punjab Police, Services, and Railways. The cup represents the rich hockey heritage in India, especially during the golden era when India dominated Olympic hockey.