WPL 2026 opening ceremony: Date, time, performers, venue & other details
Women;s Premire League 2026 opening ceremony: The fourth season of the Women's Premier League (WPL) is set to commence on Friday with a grand opening ceremony featuring Bollywood stars Jacqueline Fernandez, Honey Singh, and Harnaaz Sandhu. The event, starting at 6:45 PM, will be followed by a highly anticipated match between Mumbai Indians and Royal Challengers Bengaluru at 7:30 PM.
Nearly 5,000 sq. ft. Mumbai flagship debuts with a stunning launch event and unveils the ICON Collection
New show The 50: 18 new names; Full list of 35 probable celebs
Mumbai: All eyes are currently on the upcoming reality show The 50, and with each passing day, curiosity among audiences continues to grow. Fans are eager to know who will participate in the show, which is likely to be hosted by Farah Khan. While the makers are yet to make any official announcement, speculation around Get the latest updates in Hyderabad City News , Technology , Entertainment , Sports , Politics and Top Stories on WhatsApp & Telegram by subscribing to our channels. You can also download our app for Android and iOS .
Tata Mumbai Marathon 2026 to see more than 69,000 runners
Tata Mumbai Marathon (TMM), promoted by Procam International, is set to run with glory and pride for the 21st time this year on January 18, 2026. The World Athletics Gold Label Race will bring together a record-breaking 69,100 participants; 65,400 ...
Gold rate today: How much of 22K, 24K gold cost in your city; check rates for Delhi, Mumbai & more
Gold futures saw a slight increase on Friday morning, despite a generally weak market tone influenced by a stronger US dollar and commodity index adjustments. Traders are awaiting US non-farm payrolls data for further price direction. Spot gold experienced a dip overseas, while US gold futures edged higher.
Two UK-bound Air India flights diverted due to bad weather
New Delhi: Two Air India flights enroute to different UK cities were diverted to nearby airports there due to inclement weather on Thursday, January 8, according to the airline. One flight was from Mumbai to London Heathrow and the second was from Amritsar to Birmingham. These flights had taken off from India on Thursday and Get the latest updates in Hyderabad City News , Technology , Entertainment , Sports , Politics and Top Stories on WhatsApp & Telegram by subscribing to our channels. You can also download our app for Android and iOS .
Another popular Bollywood couple part ways after Tara and Veer
Mumbai: Just when the internet was abuzz with reports of Tara Sutaria and Veer Pahariyas rumoured breakup, another celebrity separation has taken fans by surprise. This time, it is Khushi Kapoor and Vedang Raina who have reportedly gone their separate ways. Khushi Kapoor, Vedang Raina breakup? According to journalist Vickey Lalwani, the young Bollywood couple Get the latest updates in Hyderabad City News , Technology , Entertainment , Sports , Politics and Top Stories on WhatsApp & Telegram by subscribing to our channels. You can also download our app for Android and iOS .
Russian artist Nikas Safronovs India debut with immersive AI art marks new era in cultural diplomacy
Renewing Indo-Russia ties, celebrated modern artist Nikas Safronov brings his unique Dream Vision exhibition of surreal symbolism to Delhi and Mumbai
WPL schedule 2026: Check date, venues and full match list here
The Women's Premier League (WPL) kicks off its 2026 season on January 9th with a thrilling opener between Mumbai Indians and Royal Challengers Bengaluru. The tournament features a double round-robin format, with the top three teams advancing to the playoffs for a shot at the championship title.
MI vs RCB Live Streaming: When and Where to Watch WPL 2026 Opener Online and on TV
Defending champions Mumbai Indians, led by Harmanpreet Kaur, are set to face Royal Challengers Bengaluru in the WPL 2026 opener. MI, considered favorites with a strong squad, will clash with RCB, captained by Smriti Mandhana, in a highly anticipated match that kicks off the tournament and teams' T20 World Cup preparations.
Tara Sutaria, Veer Pahariya breakup: AP Dhillons name trends
Mumbai: Ever since reports of Tara Sutaria and Veer Pahariyas breakup began doing the rounds on social media, the internet has been buzzing with one big question, what really went wrong? While neither Tara nor Veer has reacted to the rumours yet, speculation has taken over social media, with fans busy connecting dots and spinning Get the latest updates in Hyderabad City News , Technology , Entertainment , Sports , Politics and Top Stories on WhatsApp & Telegram by subscribing to our channels. You can also download our app for Android and iOS .
BJP surviving on borrowed time: Uddhav and Raj Thackeray in joint interview
The BJP has reached a point of `political saturation` and is now surviving on borrowed time, said the two leaders in an interview in Shiv Sena (UBT)`s mouthpiece `Saamana`
Man arrested for allegedly molesting seven minor schoolgirls in Malad
A 36-year-old man was arrested in Mumbai`s Malvani area for allegedly molesting seven minor schoolgirls aged 14-15 after luring them with the promise of a car ride. Police swiftly registered a case under the POCSO Act and relevant BNS sections, arrested the accused within hours, and are investigating whether he was involved in similar incidents.
Mumbais several regions, including Charkop, and Dharavi has a sizeable South Indian population
Raj Thackeray and Uddhav Thackeray to hold joint rally in Thane on Jan 12
Addressing the media while campaigning in Thane, Raj Thackeray said he had come to meet party workers rather than deliver a speech; polls to 29 municipal corporations, including Thane, will be held on January 15, while votes will be counted the next day
Hazy morning in Mumbai with minimum 20 degrees Celsius; AQI at 110
According to the Sameer app, Mumbais air quality index (AQI) on Friday is 110, which falls under the moderate category. This may cause breathing discomfort for people with lung disorders, asthma, or heart conditions
Thane traffic hit as major accident disrupts Ghodbunder Road at Gaimukh Ghat
According to information received from commuters, multiple vehicles were involved in the accident at Gaimukh Ghat, which falls on National Highway 48 (NH-48)
BJP leader Kirit Somaiya has been asked by the returning officer to provide a sworn affidavit supporting his complaint against Shiv Sena (UBT) candidate Kishori Pednekar. Somaiya alleges Pednekar submitted false information in her election affidavit, citing an FIR in the Covid-19 body bag scam and an alleged SRA scam.
Bengaluru has once again been crowned India's top city for women, according to Avtar's 2025 report. The city excels in creating a balanced ecosystem, particularly strong in industrial inclusion and career enablement. Chennai, Pune, Hyderabad, and Mumbai follow closely, showcasing consistent performance in both social and industrial aspects. Gurugram also saw a significant jump in the rankings.
Renewed hype surrounds WPL 4 after India's historic ODI WC triumph
The Women's Premier League begins with a clash between Mumbai Indians and Royal Challengers Bengaluru. Star players Harmanpreet Kaur and Smriti Mandhana lead their respective teams. Both outfits have a history of thrilling contests. Other teams like UP Warriorz, Delhi Capitals, and Gujarat Giants also feature with new strategies and player line-ups for the upcoming season.
The Maharashtra State Election Commission has declared January 15 a public holiday in 29 municipal corporation areas due to upcoming civic elections. Preparations, including EVM readiness, are complete, and the public is urged to participate. Campaigning concludes on January 13, with strict rules on advertisements thereafter.
Ajit Pawar-led NCP open to merger, decision will be collective: Sunil Tatkare
He spoke at length on merger between two factions and the Ajit Pawar-led NCP`s strategic shift since joining the National Democratic Alliance (NDA)
Act invoked by RO didnt apply to candidate: HC stays poll in Navi Mumbai ward over nixed nomination
Bombay High Court has halted the election process for Navi Mumbai Municipal Corporation's Ward 17A. This decision follows a BJP candidate's challenge after his nomination was rejected due to an alleged unauthorized commercial use notice. The court found the returning officer's actions potentially arbitrary and scheduled further hearings.
BJPs alliance with AIMIM, Congress shameful display of hypocrisy: Shiv Sena UBT
Mumbai: Amid ongoing election activity in the 29 municipal corporations in Maharashtra, the Shiv Sena Uddhav Balasaheb Thackeray (UBT) has launched a fierce attack on the Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP), accusing it of abandoning its core ideology for the sake of power. The party described the BJPs recent political manoeuvres in Maharashtra as a shameful Get the latest updates in Hyderabad City News , Technology , Entertainment , Sports , Politics and Top Stories on WhatsApp & Telegram by subscribing to our channels. You can also download our app for Android and iOS .
Shiv Sena (UBT) slams BJPs AIMIM, Congress alliances as ideological betrayal
The editorial alleged that the BJP has frequently utilised Asaduddin Owaisis AIMIM as a hidden helper in elections across Uttar Pradesh, Bihar, and Maharashtra to divide opposition votes
Missing for eight months, Mumbai teen tracked via Instagram across three states
Despite two failed Bihar searches and no technical clues, investigators revived the case by tracing borrowed mobile logins, triggering rapid movements across Assam and TN
BMC polls row: Maharastra SEC seeks report on poll officer's action in Colaba
The State Election Commission is reviewing the Colaba returning officer's decision to reject two nomination forms. While initially deeming the action legally sound, the SEC has requested an observer's report. The rejected candidates alleged Speaker Rahul Narwekar's influence, claiming their forms were refused despite tokens and presence before the deadline.
Mumbai: Two boys fall into lift shaft while playing kabaddi in Goregaon West
One said to be critical; relatives say kids, both aged 11, collided into collapsible door of Goregaon building, causing it to break and give way, during kabaddi game
Mumbai BJP has suspended 26 office bearers, including former corporators, for six years for not cooperating with Mahayuti candidates in the BMC elections 2026. The disciplinary action was taken against those who contested as rebel candidates or worked against the party's ideology despite repeated requests. Some rebels have since withdrawn their nominations.
Mumbai is at stake, warns Shiv Sena (UBT) chief Uddhav Thackeray
In a candid interview with mid-day, Shiv Sena (UBT) chief Uddhav Thackeray talks about reuniting with cousin Raj, civic decay, air pollution, and uncertain political alliances
EAM Jaishankar meets French President Emmanuel Macron in Paris
The two leaders discussed advancing bilateral cooperation and elevating India-EU engagement, while also sharing perspectives on contemporary global developments.
BMC polls: Political legacies trump party lines as civic issues persist in south Mumbai ward
Ward E's politics favors familiar faces and legacies, with families like the Jadhavs and Gawlis dominating for years. Despite this, residents face persistent civic issues including poor water, broken footpaths, and inadequate healthcare. This election, voters seek basic service delivery over grand promises, as the ward grapples with its past and present.
Donald Trump wants government to buy USD 200 billion in mortgage bonds
Trump said the two mortgage companies under government conservatorship, Fannie Mae and Freddie Mac, have USD 200 billion in cash that will be used to make the purchase.
Mumbai teacher`s body releases 13-point manifesto ahead of municipal polls
13-point agenda highlights host of issues, demands CCTV, security, power backup at SSC, HSC board centres
Federal immigration officers shoot and wound two people in Oregon
The Department of Homeland Security described the vehicle`s passenger as a Venezuelan illegal alien affiliated with the transnational Tren de Aragua prostitution ring who had been involved in a recent shooting in Portland
BMC polls: One-on-one fights in at least 11 wards, to test local equations
BMC elections are set for a tight contest with 1,700 candidates, featuring multi-cornered fights in most wards. However, at least 11 wards will see one-on-one battles, offering a clearer test of local political strength. Key matchups include Colaba and a keenly watched face-off between two Sena candidates.
The city - sliced, diced and served with a dash of sauce
Death warrant being issued for Mumbai & Marathi pride, claim Uddhav & Raj
Shiv Sena (UBT) president Uddhav Thackeray and MNS chief Raj Thackeray jointly criticized the Mahayuti government, alleging a decline in Mumbai and Marathi pride due to rampant corruption and stalled projects. They emphasized the critical juncture Maharashtra faces, urging unity to prevent irreversible damage to the state and its people.
Santacruz residents protest SRA over development violations affecting daily life
Locals claim entire stretch of proposed road has been encroached upon by private developer for mall construction, claim diversion of roads not permitted under Development Control and Promotion Regulations 2034
Bandra poll rally stabbing: Neither victim nor supporters saw assailant
Sena's Bandra candidate Haji Salim Qureshi was stabbed while campaigning in a crowded lane, realizing the attack only after exiting. Neither he nor his supporters saw the assailant, and police are investigating, exploring angles including a builder lobby and a past stabbing incident. Qureshi sustained 56 stitches but is stable.
BJP kept alliance with Sena in BMC in past only for Hindutva
BJP's Ashish Shelar stated the alliance with Shiv Sena in BMC was solely for Hindutva, distancing the party from alleged Rs 3 lakh crore corruption. He emphasized BJP's focus on Mumbai's development, security, and addressing demographic changes, promising corruption-free governance and initiatives like a Water Management Authority if elected.
Eco-sensitive zone near Mumbai`s National Park loses 255 trees for new campus
Proposed Institute of Creative Technologies campus in SGNPs eco-sensitive zone set to see death of 456 trees
Kings Circle footbridge puts lives at risk with cracked steps, broken railings
Old footbridge in Matunga, with debris, uneven staircases, slippery flooring, and overgrown weeds is posing danger to residents who use it
Every open space for sports activity must be safeguarded
Let this ground see football, hockey and cricket thrive and the ground remain open to those who used it earlier, even if management changes, with adherence to all rules
Horoscope today, January 9: Check astrological predictions for all zodiac signs
Wondering what`s in store for you today? Well, we`ve got you covered. Aries, Taurus, Gemini, Virgo, Cancer, Leo, Libra, Scorpio, Sagittarius, Capricorn, Aquarius, Pisces
Shut up, its getting awkward now!
We on social media love having an opinion on every little burning issue. But maybe, we shouldnt. Sometimes, its more prudent, and responsible, to stay quiet
WPL 2026: Champions Mumbai Indians meet revamped RCB in blockbuster start
WPL 2026: Champions Mumbai Indians meet revamped RCB in blockbuster start
MBBS status revoked at Katra medical college after NMC inspection
The withdrawal follows weeks of protests by the Sangharsh Samiti, a conglomerate of right-wing organisations backed by the BJP, demanding the cancellation of the current batchs admissions to 42 Muslim students from Kashmir, seven Hindus, and one Sikh candidate
ED raids I-PAC office, chief Pratik Jain in West Bengal coal scam case
Searches conducted as part of money laundering probe into alleged multi-crore coal pilferage scam; family alleges theft at home by the probing agency
Dhaka suspends visa service in India, seeks U.S. visa bond exemption
Bangladesh has diplomatic missions in Mumbai and Chennai as well, where the visa services remained operative
Turkman Gate violence: Five sent to judicial custody, six more arrested
The five accused Mohammad Arib, Kashif, Adnan, Mohammad Kaif and Sameer were produced before Judicial Magistrate Pooja Suhag. On Thursday, six more persons Afaan, Adil, Shahnawaz, Hamza, Atharr and Ubed, all residents of the Turkman Gate area were arrested
On January 9, 2026, gold prices in India range from Rs 13,621 per 1 gram for 24K gold and Rs 12,486 per 1 gram for 22K gold. Silver is priced at Rs 2,42,100 per kilogram. Check city-wise rates here.
Pakistan pitches JF-17 fighter jets to Bangladesh during air force talks
Pakistans Air Chief Marshal Zaheer Ahmed Baber Sidhu and his Bangladesh counterpart Hasan Mahmood Khan had extensive talks on the procurement of the JF-17 Thunder, a multi-role combat aircraft jointly developed with China
Protests spread nationwide across Iran amid economic crisis, say activists
So far, violence around the demonstrations has killed at least 38 people while more than 2200 others have been detained, said the US-based Human Rights Activists News Agency
Sensex plunges 780 points amid renewed trade uncertainty
Mumbai, Jan 8: Equity benchmark indices Sensex and Nifty fell sharply by nearly 1 per cent on Thursday, continuing their weak momentum for the fourth straight session, due to renewed concerns over potential US tariff hikes amid widespread selling pressure in global markets. Deep losses in metal, oil & gas, and commodity stocks amid unabated []
Rupee ends 3 paise lower at 89.90 against USD
Mumbai, Jan 8: The rupee settled 3 paise lower at 89.90 against the US dollar on Thursday, amid sustained outflow of foreign funds and a stronger greenback. The apprehension of further tariffs by the US and weak sentiments at the domestic equity markets fuelled selling of equities by foreign investors, putting more pressure on the []
Silver slides nearly 3.5% on MCX
MUMBAI, Jan 8: Silver prices tumbled sharply on Thursday, dropping nearly 3.5% to trade below Rs 2,42,000 per kg on the MCX amid heavy selling pressure ahead of the annual rebalancing of global commodity indexes and the release of key US economic data. Passive investment funds were expected to reduce their holdings in precious metals []
Passenger traffic at Mumbai airport grows 1.3 pc to 55.5 mn in 2025
MUMBAI, Jan 8 : Passenger traffic at Mumbai International Airport saw a modest growth of 1.3 per cent to 55.5 million during 2025 against 54.8 million in 2024, private airport operator MIAL said on Thursday. Of this, the airport recorded 39.2 million domestic and over 16.3 million international passengers, Mumbai International Airport Ltd (MIAL) said. Passenger movement at CSMIA in 2025 was driven by strong seasonal demand and peak travel periods with January emerging as the busiest month, as the [] The post Passenger traffic at Mumbai airport grows 1.3 pc to 55.5 mn in 2025 appeared first on Daily Excelsior .
Maharashtra chief secretary warns against technological dependence, advocates for sovereign AI
MI face RCB in WPL 2026 opener: Preview and stats
The Women's Premier League (WPL) 2026 is set to witness an exciting clash as Mumbai Indians (MI) take on Royal Challengers Bengaluru (RCB).
Mumbai: Skip election training, face legal action, BMC warns staff ahead of Jan 15 polls
Water supply disruption in Navi Mumbai after Morbe Dam pipeline leak
Day after aborting alliance, BJP receives suspended Cong councillors into its fold
Mumbai: Drunk man hugs schoolgirl on road, Pocso case filed
Mumbai sessions court denies bail to 60-year-old nurse accused in child trafficking case
Man sentenced to 8 years rigorous imprisonment in 2015 rape case
Connectivity battle hits NMIA and Aqua Line
Passengers face mobile network issues at Navi Mumbai International Airport and the Aqua Line metro. Telecom firms and airport and metro authorities are in a financial standoff over high connectivity charges. This dispute is affecting services for users of major mobile networks. A crucial meeting is scheduled to resolve the issue. Telcos are also renegotiating rates with other airports.
Fourth edition of the Womens Premier League begins today: Here's an overview
The Women's Premier League kicks off today, with teams like Delhi Capitals and Gujarat Giants aiming for their maiden titles. Mumbai Indians retain their winning core, while Royal Challengers Bengaluru and UP Warriorz face challenges with squad balance and key absences. All teams are gearing up for a competitive season.
Week before polling, Shiv Sena (UBT) candidate joins Shiv Sena in Dombivli
A CITY IN TRAINING - Runners step up for the upcoming Mumbai marathon
Mumbai's running community is gearing up for the upcoming marathon, with dedicated runners of all levels training diligently. From seasoned athletes to first-time participants, the city's early mornings are filled with disciplined runs along iconic locations like Marine Drive, showcasing a shared passion and commitment to race day.
Central Railway services hit as fire beaks out in train filled with garbage in Mumbai's Kurla
According to officials from the CR, the first coach of the train, in which garbage and muck collected from tracks and railway lines were collected, got engulfed in flames around 8:30 pm. Here are more details on this.
Tara Sutaria and Veer Pahariyas relationship ends: Report
Mumbai: A shocking update has emerged from the entertainment world. One of Bollywoods most talked-about couples, Tara Sutaria and Veer Pahariya, have reportedly ended their relationship. According to the latest update by Filmfare, the duo has quietly parted ways after making headlines for their romance over the past year. Neither Tara nor Veer has reacted Get the latest updates in Hyderabad City News , Technology , Entertainment , Sports , Politics and Top Stories on WhatsApp & Telegram by subscribing to our channels. You can also download our app for Android and iOS .
MI-W vs RCB-W, Match 1 , Cricket Tips :The fourth edition of the Women's Premier League (WPL 2026) is all set to start. Mumbai Indians Women will put their title on the line against the other four opponents. The first game of the tournament will feature a contest between Mumbai Indians and Royal Challengers Bengaluru. This contest will kick off at 7:30 PM IST on Friday at Dr. DY Patil Sports Academy in Navi Mumbai at 7:30 PM IST. This will start another action-packed season of the WPL. RCB-W will be without their premier player, Ellyse Perry. MI-W have all their aces with them, and they will be keen to start the tournament with a win. MI-W vs RCB-W: Match Details Date : January 9, 2026 (Friday) Time : 7:30 PM IST Venue : Dr DY Patil Sports Academy, Navi Mumbai MI-W vs RCB-W: Live Streaming Details The live telecast of the WPL 2026 will be available on the Star Sports Networks in India. Fans can also watch the game through the Jio Hotstar app or website on active accounts. MI-W vs RCB-W: Head-to-Head in WPL Total Matches : 7 Mumbai Indians Women : 4 Royal Challengers Bengaluru Women : 3 No-Result : 0 MI-W vs RCB-W: Ground Pitch Report The wicket in Navi Mumbai is flat, and the ball comes nicely onto the bat here. Players can play shots on top, and the boundaries are also not big enough here. The outfield is fast, and batters will get full value for their shots. The team that bats second will get even better conditions to bat. MI-W vs RCB-W: Possible XIs Mumbai Indians Women : G. Kamalini, Hayley Matthews, Nat Sciver-Brunt, Amelia Kerr, Harmanpreet Kaur (c), Amanjot Kaur, Poonam Khemmar, S. Sajana, Shabnim Ismail, Saika Ishaque, Sanskrit Gupta Royal Challengers Bengaluru Women : Smriti Mandhana (c), Georgia Voll, Richa Ghosh (wk), Grace Harris, Nadine de Klerk, Dayalan Hemalatha, Pooja Vastrakar, Shreyanka Patil, Radha Yadav, Linsey Smith, Arundhati Reddy MI-W vs RCB-W: Player to Watch Out For Probable Best Batter Nat Sciver-Brunt scored the most runs last season and is the leading scorer in WPL history. For RCB-W, Smriti Mandhana holds an edge. Without Perry, Smriti is the key batter. Probable Best Bowler Shabnim Ismail is the wicket-taker with the new ball. She is one of the fastest bowlers in women's cricket. For RCB-W, Radha Yadav holds an edge, as she takes wickets in the middle overs. Today Match Prediction : RCB-W look a little weaker in the absence of Perry. Hence, we predict MI-W to win this game, which is stronger in both departments. MI-W vs RCB-W Match 1, WPL 2026, Today Match MI-W vs RCB-W, MI-W vs RCB-W Prediction, MI-W vs RCB-W Predicted XIs, Injury Update of the match between Mumbai Indians Women vs Royal Challengers Bengaluru Women Also Read: Live Cricket Score Disclaimer : The prediction or cricket tips are purely based on the understanding and research of the writer. So kindly make sure to consider the points above while making your predictions.
Govt eyes `cars communication` to reduce road accidents, here`s how it works
Addressing a press conference after chairing the annual meeting of transport ministers from all states and Union Territories, Nitin Gadkari said that the new technology would allow vehicles to communicate with each other in real time
Harmanpreet Kaur Eyes More Glory as Mumbai Indians Gear Up to Defend WPL 2026 Crown
In a groundbreaking move, the Mumbai Indians will feature an all-female coaching staff for the first time in WPL history. New head coach Lisa Keightley aims to empower women in sports, reflecting MI's commitment to inclusivity and representation in coaching roles.
US oversight of Venezuela could last many years: Trump
US President Donald Trump said Washington expects to oversee Venezuela for years and extract oil from its vast reserves following the arrest of leader Nicolas Maduro. He hinted at long-term control of Venezuelan oil sales to stabilise the country and global energy prices
On poll duty for 35 hours, give paid rest day: Teachers
Citizens group to file query on Malabar Hill BEST plot dereservation
Oberoi Realty, Shree Naman in race for Railways 11-acre land in Mumbai's Bandra
Oberoi Realty and Shree Naman Developers are eligible bidders for a prime 11.21-acre railway land parcel in Mumbai's Bandra. The Railway Land Development Authority set a reserve price of Rs 5,365 crore for the land. This is the third land parcel monetised by RLDA in Mumbai recently.
Increased money in politics and drugs on the streets needs to be analysed: Raj Thackeray
In an interview with a regional channel, Thackeray cousins Uddhav and Raj said that the people were being neglected, and power was being misused. They highlighted their agenda over how the Marathi Manoos have been exploited and betrayed, and how migration has taken away the rights of locals
Raj Kundra summoned in connection with Rs 150 crore money-laundering case
Businessman Raj Kundra, husband of Shilpa Shetty, has been summoned by a special court in Mumbai concerning the GainBitcoin cryptocurrency fraud and money-laundering case. The Enforcement Directorate's chargesheet alleges Kundra received 285 Bitcoins, valued over Rs 150 crore, from the scheme's alleged mastermind.
WPL 2026: Gujarat Giants Is Better Balanced But Face Selection Dilemmas, Says Anjum Chopra
ODI World Cup: Gujarat Giants (GG) appear more competitive heading into the 2026 Women's Premier League (WPL) season, but they need to solve dilemmas around their overseas players and opening combination, said former India captain Anjum Chopra. In last years mega auction, the Ashleigh Gardner-led GG invested heavily in New Zealands veteran all-rounder Sophie Devine at the auction, as well as in acquiring Georgia Wareham, Danni Wyatt-Hodge, and Kim Garth. After finishing at the bottom of the points table in 2023 and 2024, GG put up a much-improved showing by finishing third in the league stage and qualified for the Eliminator in 2025, where they lost to eventual champions Mumbai Indians. Yes. I guess the fact that again, with four international players, whether they can balance out with Sophie Devine - they paid quite a bit for her at the auctions. So, they have to ensure that she finds a place in the playing eleven. If you are not able to utilise those services, because again, for them, who will open with Beth Mooney? They've got options - they can open with Sophie Devine, or Yastika (Bhatia), Anjum Chopra told IANS in an exclusive conversation on the eve of the competition. Australia batter Beth Mooney will be required to be the keeper again, considering Yastika is still recovering from an ACL surgery done after injuring her left knee during last years ODI World Cup preparatory camp in Visakhapatnam. Apart from who they decide to open with, it's also about who they decide to go in the wicket-keeping skills between Mooney and Yastika? So, it's a good, healthy balance. It's also good for the Indian players because it's seven plus four in the playing eleven - so there are seven places up for grabs for an Indian player, added Anjum Chopra. She also stated that the limited spots for Indian players will intensify competition for places in the starting line-up. But there are only a few specialist positions - so, the Indian talent will also start understanding that it's not just about getting to or being picked in the auction. It's also about making sure that you're able to get into the playing eleven and then showcase your skills, said Anjum. With the tournament lasting approximately three and a half weeks, player fitness will be crucial for GGs bowling department to put up a sustained performance. Renuka Singh Thakur has fared nicely since recovering from a back stress fracture, while Kashvee Gautam and Titas Sadhu have successfully returned to action after healing from their respective injuries. Fitness is part and parcel of it. It's about a three and a half weeks tournament. So, at this time, there are ample gaps as well because simultaneously, the men's series against New Zealand is also going to be on. So, I guess the rest or break part is already taken care of, as it's not a very long tournament. I'm sure every player wants to remain fit and counted because after this WPL, there'll probably be a series or two. That also is not for every nation, I guess, before they head out to England to play a T20 World Cup. So, you want to individually also make sure that you're ticking the boxes in the right manner, added Anjum. The WPL will be played for the first time since India's ODI World Cup triumph, with Anjum Chopra expecting increased fan engagement, though the hype and build-up for the tournament have been largely dull. I'm sure every player wants to remain fit and counted because after this WPL, there'll probably be a series or two. That also is not for every nation, I guess, before they head out to England to play a T20 World Cup. So, you want to individually also make sure that you're ticking the boxes in the right manner, added Anjum. Also Read: Live Cricket Score It will be Smriti Mandhana up against Harmanpreet Kaur in the very first match. So, I guess it's exciting times for the women's game, and that's the biggest high. I just hope that it keeps getting better with every passing day. There can be a slight dip as well, but as far as we are moving ahead, we are improving individually and collectively, and I'm sure the excitement around women's cricket being watched will always remain. Article Source: IANS
Tilak Varma Ruled Out Of First Three T20Is Against NZ After Undergoing Abdominal Surgery
BCCI Secretary Devajit Saikia: India batter Tilak Varma has been ruled out of the first three T20Is against New Zealand after undergoing surgery for an abdominal issue in Rajkot, said the Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI) on Thursday. IANS had previously reported that Varma, 23, underwent an emergency surgery after scans suggested the need for the same at a super-speciality hospital in Rajkot on Wednesday evening, after experiencing acute pain in his abdominal region in the morning. Varmas availability for the remaining two matches will be assessed based on his progress during the return-to-training and skill phases. He was discharged from the hospital on Thursday morning and is scheduled to fly back to Hyderabad on Friday. He is currently stable and progressing well. Tilak will resume physical training and gradually return to skill-based activities once his symptoms have fully resolved and wound healing is satisfactory. He is ruled out of the first three T20Is against New Zealand. His availability for the remaining two matches will be assessed based on his progress during the return-to-training and skill phases, BCCI Secretary Devajit Saikia said in the statement. Varmas recovery timeline leaves him doubtful for Indias T20 World Cup opener against the United States of America (USA) at the Wankhede Stadium in Mumbai on February 7, with further group fixtures scheduled against Namibia (February 12, Pakistan (February 15), and the Netherlands (February 18). Tilak will resume physical training and gradually return to skill-based activities once his symptoms have fully resolved and wound healing is satisfactory. He is ruled out of the first three T20Is against New Zealand. His availability for the remaining two matches will be assessed based on his progress during the return-to-training and skill phases, BCCI Secretary Devajit Saikia said in the statement. Also Read: Live Cricket Score India have yet to announce a replacement for Varma for the first three T20Is against New Zealand, to be played in Nagpur, Raipur, and Guwahati on January 21, 23, and 25. The last two T20Is will be played in Visakhapatnam and Thiruvananthapuram on January 28 and 31. Article Source: IANS
Mumbai lose the unlosable; Nabi, Sarfaraz, Gaikwad sparkle
Karnataka, MP, UP, Vidarbha, Punjab, Mumbai, Delhi and Saurashtra qualified for the quarter-finals of the Vijay Hazare Trophy 2025-26
BCB Sends Another Letter To ICC Asking For Venue Change For Its T20WC Games
The World Cup gets underway on February 7 and Bangladesh are scheduled to play four games (three in Kolkata and one in Mumbai)
I-PAC co-founder Pratik Jain moves Calcutta High Court against ED after raids
Hours after the Enforcement Directorate raided I-PACs office and his residence in Kolkata, its co-founder Pratik Jain filed a counter-petition in the Calcutta High Court challenging the central agency`s operation. ED has also accused CM Mamata Banerjee of misusing her position
Ailani & Kalani families face off in high-voltage Ulhasnagar contest

