2027 WPL Auction: Disciplined Spending, Targeted Picks Defined GGs Plans, Says Adesara
Chief Business Officer: Keeping a tight rein on their purse allowed the Gujarat Giants to focus on fulfilling their remaining specific needs at the 2027 Womens Premier League (WPL) auction, said Sanjay Adesara, Chief Business Officer of Adani Sportsline. With 15 players already retained, the most retained by any team, and only three slots to fill, GG spent a combined Rs 80 lakh at Wednesday's auction in Kochi. GG acquired young Indian wicketkeeper-batter G Kamalini for Rs 40 lakh, Ireland all-rounder Orla Prendergast for Rs 30 lakh, and 16-year-old Delhi all-rounder Samaira Raghav for Rs 10 lakh. The 2027 WPL will be played from January 14 to February 7, with venues yet to be known. From a business perspective, we are pleased with how the auction unfolded. We entered with a clear understanding of our requirements, having retained a strong core of 15 players, and our focus was on making targeted additions rather than making changes for the sake of it. We were able to secure players who address specific squad requirements while remaining disciplined with our purse. Kamalini strengthens our batting options, Orla brings valuable all-round ability, and Samaira adds exciting potential in the middle order. For us, a successful auction is not just about how much you spend, but about how effectively you use your resources to build a balanced and competitive squad, Adesara told IANS in an exclusive conversation on Thursday. GG, who finished second in the group stage of WPL 2026 before losing to Delhi Capitals in the Eliminator, have relied on a stable core. Adesara, however, said continuity was not a fixed rule, and the franchise would make bigger changes when needed, especially with a mega auction likely to happen in 2028. Continuity is an important part of our approach, although we would not view it as a rigid model. We believe in backing players, building combinations over time and creating an environment in which individuals can grow together as a team. The performances last season gave us confidence in the core we had assembled, and the auction was an opportunity to address specific gaps and add depth. At the same time, we remain open to making significant changes when the circumstances and team requirements call for them. Our decisions will be guided by what gives Gujarat Giants the best chance of competing consistently, rather than by a preference for either continuity or spending, added Adesara. He further pointed out that the signings of Kamalini and Samaira also fit the franchises long-term goal of developing young Indian womens cricketers. Identifying and nurturing young Indian talent has always been an important part of our philosophy at Adani. The WPL provides a valuable platform for emerging players to develop alongside experienced international and Indian cricketers, and we want Gujarat Giants to be an environment where that growth is encouraged. Players such as Kashvee Gautam, Anushka Sharma and Happy Kumari reflect the potential of our scouting programme, and we see Samaira and Kamalini as exciting additions to that wider vision. The WPL provides a valuable platform for emerging players to develop alongside experienced international and Indian cricketers, and we want Gujarat Giants to be an environment where that growth is encouraged. Also Read: Special Cricket Stories Article Source: IANS
Mumbai Indians part ways with Lasith Malinga, Paras Mhambrey, and Carl Hopkinson ahead of IPL 2027
In a major development, five-time IPL (Indian Premier League) champions Mumbai Indians recently came forward and announced that the franchise will be parting ways with Lasith Malinga, Paras Mhambrey and Carl Hopkinson, and the trio...
Malinga, Mhambrey And Hopkinson Leave Mumbai Indians Mens Coaching Staff Ahead Of IPL 2027
The Sri Lankan: Five-time IPL champions Mumbai Indians (MI) on Thursday announced that bowling coaches Lasith Malinga, Paras Mhambrey and fielding coach Carl Hopkinson will be leaving the mens team set-up. The announcement comes days after Kieron Pollard took over as the sides new head coach after Mahela Jayawardene departed. Mumbai Indians extend their heartfelt gratitude to Lasith, Paras and Carl for their contributions to the team and the wider MI family. Their commitment, the relationships they have built and the memories they have helped create will always be part of our journey. We wish each of them the very best in their future endeavours, the franchise said in a statement on Thursday. The departures mark the end of a long association for Malinga, regarded as one of the most iconic figures in MIs history. The Sri Lankan fast bowling great led the franchises bowling attack during four of its IPL title wins and the 2011 Champions League T20 triumph before returning as a mentor and coach. Malinga had returned to Mumbai Indians as a fast-bowling coach ahead of IPL 2024 and took over from Shane Bond, who had held the role for nine seasons. After retiring in 2021, he spent two seasons as Rajasthan Royals' fast-bowling coach. It was Malingas second stint in MIs support staff having served as mentor in 2018 before returning to the field the following year to share the new ball with Jasprit Bumrah as the side won their fourth IPL title. Mhambrey, the former India pacer, served the franchise across two spells, first from 2010 to 2017 and again ahead of the 2025 season. Mhambrey was Indias bowling coach from November 2021 to July 2024, a stint that included the T20 World Cup triumph in the West Indies. It was Malingas second stint in MIs support staff having served as mentor in 2018 before returning to the field the following year to share the new ball with Jasprit Bumrah as the side won their fourth IPL title. Also Read: Special Cricket Stories Article Source: IANS
Reliance Industries to dissolve Hamleys Franchising subsidiary in UK
The UK Registrar of Companies has issued a gazette notice stating that the subsidiary could be removed from the register after two months.
For more than three decades, Bollywood's superstar hierarchy has been dominated by three names Shah Rukh Khan, Salman Khan and Aamir Khan. Their supremacy has survived changing audience tastes, the rise of multiplexes, the OTT revolution and the arrival of a new generation of actors. Several stars have challenged their dominance, but very few have managed to sustain the kind of hysteria that the three Khans have enjoyed. Now, as Ranbir Kapoor prepares for the release of Ramayana: Part One on November 5, an intriguing question arises. Is he about to achieve something that even the three Khans, despite their extraordinary careers, have not managed to accomplish? The answer lies not merely in the opening day numbers or the lifetime collections of Ramayana. It lies in the possibility of creating an Indian film franchise with the scale, cultural relevance and international potential to compete with some of the biggest cinematic properties in the world. From talented actor to genuine superstar Ranbir Kapoor's career has followed an unconventional trajectory. Unlike Salman Khan, who developed a formidable mass following through larger-than-life entertainers, or Shah Rukh Khan, whose romantic image became a global phenomenon, Ranbir has consistently moved between different genres. He played a troubled musician in Rockstar, a carefree young man in Yeh Jawaani Hai Deewani, a conflicted son in Animal and a film star in Sanju. These films showcased his versatility, but they also revealed an interesting aspect of his career. Ranbir's biggest successes have generally emerged when his acting abilities have been combined with a strong emotional narrative and a compelling cinematic proposition. Animal changed the conversation around his stardom. It demonstrated that Ranbir could deliver a massive opening and attract audiences beyond the traditional urban multiplex circuit. More importantly, it established him as a star capable of generating extraordinary anticipation before a film's release. With Ramayana, however, the stakes are considerably higher. The one territory the Khans never completely conquered Shah Rukh Khan has enjoyed remarkable international popularity. Aamir Khan demonstrated the enormous overseas potential of Indian cinema with Dangal, particularly in China. Salman Khan has delivered some of Hindi cinema's most successful mass entertainers. Yet, none of them has built a globally established, multi-film mythological franchise on the scale that Ramayana is attempting. This distinction is important. It does not mean that Ranbir has already surpassed their achievements. The Khans have delivered decades of box-office success, cultural influence and extraordinary audience loyalty. A single franchise cannot erase that legacy. However, Ramayana presents Ranbir with an opportunity that is fundamentally different from the conventional superstar race. If the makers successfully translate Ramayanas cultural familiarity into a compelling theatrical spectacle, Ramayana could travel far beyond the traditional audience for a Hindi film. And that could give Ranbir an entirely new dimension to his stardom. Can Ranbir become India's first truly global franchise superstar? Hollywood's biggest stars have increasingly benefited from association with globally recognised franchises. The success of such films is not always dependent on individual star power. Audiences are attracted by the characters, the cinematic universe and the promise of an extraordinary theatrical experience. This is precisely where Ramayana becomes interesting. Ranbir is not merely playing another commercial hero. He is portraying Lord Rama, one of the most revered figures in Indian mythology. The character carries enormous emotional and cultural significance, while the film's scale could introduce the story to international audiences unfamiliar with Indian cinema. If Ramayana succeeds globally, Ranbir could become the face of a franchise whose recognition extends well beyond his existing fan base. But there is a catch. The character of Rama is bigger than the actor portraying him. Audiences may turn up because of their attachment to the epic rather than because of Ranbir Kapoor. Consequently, even extraordinary collections would not automatically establish that Ranbir has greater individual drawing power than Shah Rukh, Salman or Aamir. The real test would come when he returns with a film that does not benefit from such a powerful pre-existing property. The numbers will tell only half the story There is considerable excitement surrounding Ramayana's commercial prospects. Its scale, premium formats, multiple language versions and ambitious international positioning create the possibility of exceptional box-office numbers. However, the film's eventual success must be examined through several parameters. An enormous opening would demonstrate the strength of the initial anticipation. Strong weekday collections would suggest positive audience acceptance. Sustained performance across different territories would indicate broad appeal. International collections beyond the Indian diaspora would be particularly significant. And given the scale of the investment, profitability would be just as important as headline-grabbing gross collections. A film can create box-office records without necessarily delivering equally impressive financial returns. The biggest opportunity and the biggest risk For Ranbir Kapoor, Ramayana represents an extraordinary opportunity, but also a tremendous responsibility. The expectations surrounding the film are unlike those attached to a conventional commercial entertainer. Audiences will judge not only the performances, direction and visual effects, but also the emotional authenticity with which the epic has been adapted. Even a commercially successful film could attract intense criticism if viewers feel that the storytelling has failed to do justice to its subject. On the other hand, if Ramayana delivers on its promise, Ranbir could find himself at the centre of a franchise that dominates the theatrical conversation for years. That would be an achievement of considerable significance. The final verdict It would be premature to declare Ranbir Kapoor Bollywood's biggest superstar. Shah Rukh Khan, Salman Khan and Aamir Khan have built legacies that cannot be measured through the success of one film. But perhaps Ramayana is not really about replacing the Khans. Perhaps it is about changing the definition of superstardom itself. For decades, Bollywood's biggest films were built around superstars. With Ramayana, there is an opportunity for a superstar to become the face of something even bigger than himself. If that happens, Ranbir Kapoor may not merely climb Bollywood's hierarchy. He could help create an entirely new one. Also Read: Could Yashs Ravana steal the thunder from Ranbir Kapoors Lord Ram? The STAR POWER battle inside Ramayana
Mumbai Indians part ways with Malinga, Mhambrey and Hopkinson; end of an era for Sri Lankan legend
Mumbai Indians confirmed the exit of Lasith Malinga, Paras Mhambrey, and Carl Hopkinson from their coaching positions. Malinga, a key player and mentor, inspired many during his time with the franchise. Mhambrey contributed significantly to developing the team's bowling talent and understanding its culture. Hopkinson, who joined recently, helped improve the fielding standards of the team as well.
BCCI To Brainstorm On Adding More WPL Teams From Next Year: Devajit Saikia
ODI World Cup: The Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI) will hold discussions on expanding the Womens Premier League (WPL) beyond five teams from next year, said secretary Devajit Saikia. Saikia's comments came a day after the WPL 2027 auction was held in Kochi, where around 150 players went under the hammer out of which 25 cricketers found places in five teams. The WPL was launched in 2023 with five teams and the 2027 edition will be played from January 14 to February 7. There are about 150 players who are in the fray here and hardly 27 we had to take but still so many players were left out. So we can very easily see that five number of teams are really less compared to the number of supply chain of girls cricketers. From next year, definitely we will have to do some brainstorming sessions to increase the number of teams as well as in other areas where we can improve. Not only the players but so many other areas we are having involvement in, right from the coaches, selectors, etc, and various stakeholders are involved here, Saikia said in a video posted on the WPLs social media handles on Thursday. With just five franchises, the WPL can absorb only a small fraction of Indias growing domestic talent pool. Bringing in one or two more teams along with an increase in player budget will open up more opportunities for players to be a part of the league. So the overall ecosystem has a positive impact on WPL. This is a wonderful beginning, and this is a wonderful journey going on and I hope WPL will grow from leaps and bounds in the coming years, added Saikia. He also welcomed the fact that a 15-year-old uncapped all-rounder Uma Kashvi was picked by Delhi Capitals for Rs 10 lakh. I am very happy that a young girl of 15 years got an opportunity to play in the WPL. That is a success. We want to bring maximum women cricketers to play and be a part of this success story in Indian womens cricket. Saikia further credited the WPL with playing a major role in Indias rise in womens cricket, pointing to the national teams status as ODI World Cup winners when they won the trophy last year. We are the present champions in the world and that shows the expansion this WPL has given all across the country so far as womens cricket is concerned. You see WPL is one of the big leagues in the world of franchise cricket after the IPL. Saikia further credited the WPL with playing a major role in Indias rise in womens cricket, pointing to the national teams status as ODI World Cup winners when they won the trophy last year. Also Read: Special Cricket Stories Article Source: IANS
WPL: 'Picking players at base price shows how hard our scouts work, says Jhulan Goswami
Digital Desk | New Delhi, Oct 29 (IANS) Mumbai Indians bowling coach and mentor Jhulan Goswami has credited the franchises scouting team for identifying emerging talent after they signed six uncapped Indian players at the Womens Premier League (WPL) 2027 auction, saying the process of tracking potential recruits continues throughout the year. Mumbai Indians entered Wednesdays auction in Kochi with the lowest purse of Rs 90 lakh and completed their squad by signing six uncapped players, including Shweta Sehrawat, Disha Kasat, Latika Inamdar, Bharti Rawal, Saanika Chalke and Akshita Bhagat. Whatever players we picked at their base price this time, they have that ability, and they have been performing quite well consistently for their state teams. Picking several players at base prices shows how hard our scouting team is working. And scouting is a round-the-clock process since you have to follow matches, irrespective of whether they are happening in India or outside India. And because of them, it becomes easy for us when we come to the auction table, knowing who our targets are, Jhulan told Jio Star. She also highlighted the importance of assessing a players mentality alongside performances while selecting talent for the franchise. Our job as a coach is to look at young players who score runs on a regular basis in domestic cricket, take wickets, bat at a good strike rate, and win matches for their team. The most important thing is: do they have that winning mindset? Because performances can be up and down, but you must have that mindset with which you can take the team ahead and make the team win, she said. Delhi-based Shweta, who was retained by UP Warriorz in 2026, attracted a bidding contest between Mumbai Indians and Delhi Capitals before being signed by MI for Rs 20 lakh, double her base price. Jhulan said the Mumbai Indians had made a strong effort to sign India batter Kiran Navgire but had to withdraw from the bidding after reaching their financial limit. We tried our best and went as far as we could for Kiran Navgire, but unfortunately, we didnt get her. And thats how the auction dynamics work. She is an impactful player. So, we definitely expected quite a few teams to go after her. But at the same time, we had other options. Thankfully, we got most of the players we wanted. So, yeah, the auction was very good, and we are all very happy, she said. Mumbai Indians made an early bid for Navgire but pulled out at Rs 70 lakh, with Delhi Capitals eventually signing the batter for Rs 75 lakh. Jhulan added that the franchise managed to secure almost all its preferred targets despite the limited budget, with Shweta being the exception among its Indian domestic recruits in terms of price expectations. I think, more or less, 95 to 97 per cent of the players we had targeted, we got them, except Kiran Navgire. We didnt get her. But we knew it was going to be a challenge. We didnt have the budget to go further than what we did. But all the other Indian domestic players that we had targeted, we more or less got all of them at their best prices, except Shweta Sehrawat. So, yeah, we are very happy with the auction, she said. We came into this auction with the lowest purse of Rs 90 lakhs, so we had to plan and prepare, keeping that challenge and accordingly different options in mind. And when you face challenging situations, your best performance comes out, both on the cricket field and off the field, Jhulan added. The 2027 WPL season is scheduled to be played from January 14 to February 7, with venues yet to be announced.
WPL 2027: Choosing Four Overseas Players In Playing XI Will Be Really Hard, Says Klinger
The Ashleigh Gardner: Gujarat Giants (GG) head coach Michael Klinger said picking the four overseas players in the playing eleven will be one of the toughest calls the franchise faces when the 2027 Womens Premier League (WPL) happens from January 14 to February 7. At the auction held in Kochi, GG filled their three vacant slots by signing India wicketkeeper-batter G Kamalini (for Rs 40 lakh), Irelands seam-bowling all-rounder Orla Prendergast and talented all-rounder Samaira Raghav, who was a late addition to the auction pool, for Rs 30 lakh and Rs 10 lakh, respectively. GG now have six overseas players: captain Ashleigh Gardner, Beth Mooney, Sophie Devine, Georgia Wareham, Kim Garth and Orla, who became the first Irish cricketer to be picked in the WPL. The four overseas playing spots are going to be really hard to choose with the quality we have. Last year we went with our four batters, or rounders. We have Kim Garth as well, who didnt play last year and is in career best form at the moment. So shes certainly going to be pushing to play matches as well and provides fantastic new ball and death bowling options for us. Along with Orla now, its going to be some really difficult decisions, but thats a good problem to have, Klinger told IANS in an exclusive conversation after the auction on Thursday. The Ashleigh Gardner-led side made the playoffs last season but lost to Delhi Capitals in the Eliminator. In WPL 2027, with the venues yet to be known, GG will be aiming to go one step further and clinch their first-ever title. On the rationale of signing Kamalini, who played last two WPL seasons for the Mumbai Indians, despite already having two keepers in Beth and Yastika Bhatia, Klinger stated the franchise had been prepared to pay more for her and would use her purely as a batter. With Kamalini, we thought there were going to be more bidders for her. So to get her at base price was great. We probably would have bid a little bit high if required. So I think just her versatility in the batting order gives us options both for her and our other batters and for our overseas options as well. In terms of having three keepers, were probably looking for her as a batter only. Initially with Yastika and Beth options to take the gloves, I think theyre probably the ones well go with at the start. But Kamalinis played as a batter only before and were really excited to have her, he added. In terms of Samaira, uncapped finishers are hard to come by in the WPL, and Samaira has shown that ability while turning out for Delhi in the Womens Under-19 T20 Trophy this year, where she made 162 runs at an average of 54 and a strike rate of 216, including being unbeaten four times. In that tournament, Samaira recorded strike rates of 325 against Pondicherry, 308 against Bengal, 275 against Uttarakhand, 221 against Saurashtra and 192 in the semi-final against Haryana. Samaira has a reputation of being a really good middle order batter who finishes innings off really well. Shes done that recently in the under-19 domestic tournament, and we had her at our training camp a few weeks ago in Bengaluru, where in some scenarios and practice matches, she did the same thing, added Klinger. Samaira first caught the attention of WPL scouts while turning out for North Delhi Strikers in the Womens Delhi Premier League (DPL) this year, where she hit a match-winning six when the equation read six runs needed off two balls against the East Delhi Riders at the Arun Jaitley Stadium. Samaira has a reputation of being a really good middle order batter who finishes innings off really well. Shes done that recently in the under-19 domestic tournament, and we had her at our training camp a few weeks ago in Bengaluru, where in some scenarios and practice matches, she did the same thing, added Klinger. Also Read: Special Cricket Stories Article Source: IANS
Ali Fazal has expressed gratitude for the overwhelming love that Mirzapur and his character Guddu Pandit have received over the years. As the series earns the distinction of being voted the most-watched show across streaming platforms over the last decade, spanning its first three seasons, the actor reflected on the emotional significance of playing a character that has become a household name. For Ali, the popularity of Guddu Pandit goes beyond professional recognition. The characters journey, intensity and transformation have resonated with audiences, making him one of the most recognisable figures from the crime drama. Reflecting on the milestone, the actor spoke about how the response to the series has exceeded expectations and how audiences have made Guddu Bhaiya a part of their lives. Speaking about the recognition and what it means to him, Ali Fazal said, It's honestly quite overwhelming and emotional to see the kind of love Mirzapur continues to receive. When we started this journey, we knew we were creating something special, but none of us could have predicted the scale at which the show and its characters would connect with people. Guddu Pandit has given me so much as an actor, and the fact that audiences have welcomed him into their homes and made Guddu Bhaiya a household name is something I will always cherish. There are moments when you pause and realise that a character you once played has become a part of people's lives, their conversations and their memories. That feeling is difficult to put into words. The actor also acknowledged the significance of the latest chapter in the franchise, Mirzapur: The Movie, which released this year and has delivered a notable box-office performance. According to Ali, the films response has further strengthened his emotional connection with the franchise and the audiences who have followed its journey across seasons. Continuing, he said, To now see Mirzapur receive this recognition, and to have Mirzapur: The Movie take that love forward with such an incredible response at the box office, makes the journey even more special. I am deeply grateful to the audiences, the entire team, and everyone who has stood by this world through every season. Guddu Pandit will always hold a very special place in my heart. Since its first season, Mirzapur has built a dedicated following, with its characters and dialogues becoming part of popular culture. Guddu Pandits evolution across the series has been central to its appeal, with Alis portrayal capturing the characters shifting ambitions, vulnerabilities and intensity. For the actor, the recognition serves as a reminder of the lasting connection that storytelling can create between performers and viewers. With the series continuing to enjoy widespread popularity and Mirzapur: The Movie extending the franchises reach, Guddu Pandit remains a defining role in Ali Fazals career. Also Read: Richa Chadha flies down to Delhi to celebrate beau Ali Fazals birthday
Brewers win first World Series in 57-year history
The Milwaukee Brewers win the World Series for the first time in the franchise's 57-year history after beating the Tampa Bay Rays in game five on Wednesday.
ESIC Medical College and Hospital Ranchi (ESIC Ranchi) has released Notification No. 07 of 2026 for 87 vacancies, including Professor, Associate Professor, Assistant Professor, and Senior Resident posts. Eligible candidates can submit their offline applications till 02 November 2026. Further details are available at esic.gov.in.
Jharkhand Police Arrests Man Posing as Officer for Sexual Assault in Ranchi Case
A man impersonating a police officer was arrested in Bihar for sexually assaulting a woman in Ranchi after she filed a complaint. Jharkhand Police Arrests Man Posing as Officer for Sexual Assault in Ranchi Case
We Did The Best We Could To Get Molineux Back: RCB Head Coach Malolan
Royal Challengers Bengaluru: Defending champions Royal Challengers Bengaluru (RCB) went up to Rs 1.05 crore in an attempt to bring Australian all-rounder Sophie Molineux back into their squad at the WPL 2027 auction, but eventually lost out to UP Warriorz. RCB head coach Malolan Rangarajan explained the franchises approach to the bidding on auction day, while also outlining why the team backed injury-hit Australian all-rounder Jess Jonassen for Rs 40 lakh as it finalised its squad for the upcoming season. Rangarajan acknowledged that RCB had pushed hard to retain Molineuxs services, particularly after her contribution to the franchises championship-winning campaign last season. However, with a purse of Rs 1.15 crore entering the auction, the team had to balance its pursuit of the Australian with other recruitment priorities. When you have Rs 1.15 crores and you go till 1.05 for her, I think we did the best we could to get her back. We also have to recognise that we did win the championship last year. So, we would have loved to have her in our squad, and we tried to demonstrate that. But I wish Sophie the very best when she plays for UP, a gun cricketer. We would have liked her, but again, thats how the auction works, and we had other players also that we were looking at, Rangarajan told JioStar. Despite missing out on Molineux, RCB secured four players to complete their squad, with Jonassen joining South African all-rounder Chloe Tryon, Indian batter Tejal Hasabnis and Indian batter Vrinda Dinesh. The acquisitions cost the franchise Rs 1.10 crore in total, adding depth to its spin attack, all-round resources and Indian batting options. Jonassens availability, however, remains an important consideration ahead of the tournament. The Australian has opted out of the Womens Big Bash League (WBBL) while recovering from an injury, but RCB are working with the expectation that she will be fit in time for the WPL. Rangarajan said the franchise had assessed the risks before committing to the experienced left-arm spinner and had contingency plans in place should her recovery take longer than anticipated. She has opted not to play the WBBL now because she is nursing an injury. The information we have at the moment is that shes going to be fit by the end of December, and shell play a couple of domestic List-A games in Australia and should be fit in time for the WPL. JJ is a very experienced player. Were aware of her current fitness status, but we still wanted her. Similarly with Sophie also. We were very aware of what we were going to sign up for. So, if required, we also have all our backup plans ready. Id like to focus on JJ the player and the way she improves our team. A left-arm spinner who is a powerplay option for us through the middle and death, and more importantly, bats anywhere between four and six. So very, very happy to have JJ in the team, he added. She has opted not to play the WBBL now because she is nursing an injury. The information we have at the moment is that shes going to be fit by the end of December, and shell play a couple of domestic List-A games in Australia and should be fit in time for the WPL. JJ is a very experienced player. Were aware of her current fitness status, but we still wanted her. Similarly with Sophie also. We were very aware of what we were going to sign up for. Also Read: Special Cricket Stories Article Source: IANS
After Four Straight Losses, The Miami Heat Finally Won, And Bam Adebayo Made Franchise History
The Heat beat the Hawks 129-117 for their first win after an 0-4 start, with Giannis Antetokounmpo posting 24 points and 18 rebounds. See how Miami turned it around, and how Bam Adebayo became the franchises all-time leading rebounder.
WPL 2027 Auction: Teams Spend Rs 73.1 Crore as 25 Players Sold; RCB and DC Retain Final Roster Slots
Franchises spent a total of 73.1 crore as 25 out of the 27 available squad slots were filled during the Womens Premier League (WPL) 2027 auction on Wednesday. Only Royal Challengers Bengaluru (RCB) and Delhi Capitals (DC) concluded the auction with one open slot remaining in their respective rosters, while all other franchises exhausted their [] The post WPL 2027 Auction: Teams Spend Rs 73.1 Crore as 25 Players Sold; RCB and DC Retain Final Roster Slots appeared first on Pragativadi I Latest Odisha News in English I Breaking News .
Reliance Industries's Hamleys Franchising business faces strike-off in UK
Hamleys Franchising Ltd is facing a voluntary strike-off from the UK company register. The UK Registrar of Companies issued a notice regarding this development on October 27, 2026. Unless objections are raised within two months, the company will be dissolved. In 2025, Hamleys Franchising reported a turnover of Rs 56.08 crore, contributing minimally to Reliance Industries. Its net worth was nil as of December 31, 2025, according to the filing.
Reliance's UK Hamleys Franchising Arm Set To Be Struck Off Register
Hamleys came into the Reliance fold in 2019. That year Reliance Brands Ltd., the group's fashion and lifestyle arm, agreed to buy all of Hamleys Global Holdings Ltd. from Hong Kong-based C Banner International Holdings.
Given Kavya Maran's association with the Indian Premier League franchise Sunrisers Hyderabad, the reception could also see guests from the cricketing fraternity
He Can Become Captain There: R Ashwin Picks Ideal Franchise For Hardik Pandya
Ravichandran Ashwin has picked the ideal destination for Hardik Pandya, naming the franchise where the all-rounder can also get the captain's role.
Jennifer Lawrence talks about returning as Katniss Everdeen to the Hunger Games franchise
A U.S. District Judge dismissed the Trump administration's bid to halt ballot processing in California. This decision followed claims that some voters might not be U.S. citizens. The ruling aims to prevent disenfranchisement and election uncertainty. More than 3.7 million Californians have already cast their votes ahead of Election Day. Similar actions have been attempted by the administration in Washington and Alaska over electoral processes.
Judge denies feds' request to block 20,000 California ballots in blistering opinion
A sign points toward voting stations inside the Arroyo Seco Regional Branch Library in Los Angeles. (Ronaldo Bolanos/Los Angeles Times) A federal judge in Los Angeles denied a Trump administration request Wednesday to immediately block California elections officials from counting the ballots of 20,000 voters whose citizenship the administration questions in a blistering opinion. U.S. District Judge David O. Carter ruled that the administrations allegations were not credible and that the intervention it sought would violate a host of federal laws, sow chaos in the ongoing midterm election, likely lead to the disenfranchisement of legitimate voters and foster future political meddling in elections. This request violates longstanding constitutional principles mandating that states have control over their elections, Carter wrote. If [the Trump administrations] last-minute request for relief were granted, either party could create chaos for their own political purposes to disrupt the election process. Carter, an appointee of President Clinton, wrote that never in American history has the federal government, on the eve of an election, sought to coerce a state and local government to abandon their own Constitutional elections procedures and bend to the will of the Executive Branch, and that, in bringing its suit, the Trump administration was asking the court to believe that it reigns as a sole sovereign. But California and its people are sovereign, too, Carter wrote. Carters ruling was the second to deny the Trump administration a temporary restraining order against the state and Los Angeles County this week, after a three-judge panel of the U.S. 9th Circuit Court of Appeals denied the governments emergency request in a separate order Monday. Carter ruled following a 3-hour hearing Tuesday, where a slew of attorneys for the state, county and independent voting rights groups argued against the administrations demands. First Assistant U.S. Atty. Bill Essayli who is the top federal prosecutor in L.A. and argued for the Trump administration at Tuesdays hearing did not immediately respond to a request for comment on the ruling Wednesday. After Tuesdays hearing, he suggested the administration was likely to appeal Carters ruling if it didnt immediately halt the counting of the flagged ballots. This is a developing story and will be updated. Get the L.A. Times California Politics newsletter. Deeply reported insights into legislation, politics and policy from Sacramento, Washington and beyond, in your inbox twice per week. This story originally appeared in Los Angeles Times . This article originally appeared on LA Times at https://www.yahoo.com/news/politics/articles/judge-denies-feds-request-block-005308566.html
Chiefs coach defends decision to sign kicker Tucker
Kansas City Chiefs head coach Andy Reid defends the franchise's decision to sign Justin Tucker to its practice squad, stating the kicker has done his... Chiefs coach defends decision to sign kicker Tucker
Jennifer Lawrence recollects pulling off daredevil stunts for The Hunger Games
Digital Desk | Los Angeles, Oct 29 (IANS) Hollywood actress Jennifer Lawrence has shared that she somewhere had a feeling that her iconic film The Hunger Games would be a hit. She shared that filming some of its most daring stunts came with serious risks but she was game for it given her gut feeling about the project. The 36-year-old actress, who stars as Katniss Everdeen in The Hunger Games franchise, recently looked back on the film that started it all and the stunts she pulled off to make it a success. She appeared on the latest episode of Call Her Daddy podcast during the press tour of her upcoming film The Hunger Games: Sunrise on the Reaping film. She said, There was a scene where Im running down a mountain and there are, like, fireballs being fired at me and none of it was CGI. While acting out some of the movements, the actress recollected how everything really was exploding and catching on fire. She further mentioned, If you strayed away from your trail, which is not clear because if they, you know, put red tape or something youll see it. So you just kind of have a general idea of, like, where to go and like if youre wrong you will blow up. Elsewhere in the podcast, the actress opened up about the unbelievable reunion as shes set to reprise her role more than a decade later alongside Josh Hutcherson, who played Katniss love interest Peeta in the original series, and Woody Harrelson as their mentor Haymitch. She shared, It was so emotional. Josh (Hutcherson) and I didnt walk to the bathroom without our arms around each other. It was so beautiful. The Silver Linings Playbook star went on to describe the nostalgic feeling. It was so crazy because it was the same crew, Lawrence said. It was the same camera guys, the same AD who Ive worked with a million times too because I love him, and Josh and Woody, she added.
WPL 2027 auction: DC have strengthened an already strong squad, says coach Batty on auction strategy
Digital Desk | New Delhi, Oct 28 (IANS) Delhi Capitals strengthened their squad for the upcoming Womens Premier League (WPL) 2027 season, securing four players, including Indian player Kiran Navgire, in the player auction in Kochi on Wednesday, with head coach Jonathan Batty claiming they have strengthened an already strong side. With a strong core of 13 retained players, the franchise added explosive Indian batter Navgire, promising 15-year-old all-rounder Uma Kashvi, Indian all-rounder Nazma Khan and Scotland spinner Kirstie Gordon to complete their 17-member squad. Delhi Capitals spent 1.05 crore at the auction, taking their total squad expenditure to 14.95 crore, including 13.9 crore spent on retentions. Navgire was the franchises marquee acquisition at 75 lakh, while Kashvi, Khan and Gordon were secured for 10 lakh each. Speaking after the auction, the teams Head Coach Jonathan Batty expressed satisfaction with the franchises acquisitions, highlighting the additional firepower in the batting department, the depth of the squad and the potential of its newest young recruit. Kiran was a high-value target for us. Shes probably the most dynamic and powerful batter in the auction. With Shafali at the top of the order and power further down the lineup with players like Chinelle Henry, Kiran gives us another dimension to consider in our batting order. It has the potential to make our batting lineup absolutely staggering, Batty said. One of Delhi Capitals most exciting acquisitions was Uma Kashvi, the 15-year-old Karnataka all-rounder who became the youngest player to be sold in WPL auction history. A right-arm spin-bowling all-rounder, Kashvi has represented India Under-19 in a series against Sri Lanka Under-19, gaining valuable exposure to the international junior circuit at an early stage of her career. Batty credited the franchises scouting network for tracking Kashvis progress and emphasised that her signing was a long-term investment in her development. Shes been on our radar for a little while. Our scouts have watched her play extensively and shared some incredible feedback, and Ive seen her play as well. We believe she could become an absolute superstar in the future. At 15, she is very much a work in progress, and were not expecting her to be the finished article just yet. This is a long-term project for Delhi Capitals, he said. Its a wonderful opportunity for her to be part of this setup, learn from our top coaches and work alongside international stars. Hopefully, shell learn a huge amount from the players around her. This is the first step on a journey that we hope will lead to Indian recognition in the future, and were excited to see her progress, Batty added. Delhi Capitals retained a formidable core ahead of the auction, featuring captain Jemimah Rodrigues, explosive opener Shafali Verma, experienced all-rounders Marizanne Kapp and Annabel Sutherland, and South African batter Laura Wolvaardt. The retained group also includes Chinelle Henry, N. Shree Charani and several promising Indian players, giving the coaching staff a strong foundation to build on. Reflecting on the overall squad composition, Batty said the new additions had further strengthened both the starting eleven and the teams bench strength. Going into the auction, we already had a really strong group of 13 players. Our starting lineup was very strong even before the auction, and I think we have strengthened it further. We now have the potential to improve both our starting eleven and our squad depth. It is going to give me some selection headaches as a coach, which is a really good thing. Thats exactly what we want difficult decisions because we have the strongest squad possible, he said. Concluding his assessment of the auction, Batty said, We are really happy with how things went. There were lots of different dynamics at play, but I think it went as well as we could have hoped. Delhi Capitals full squad for WPL 2027 Retained players: Jemimah Rodrigues 2.20 crore Shafali Verma 2.20 crore Marizanne Kapp 2.20 crore Annabel Sutherland 2.20 crore Chinelle Henry 1.30 crore N. Shree Charani 1.30 crore Laura Wolvaardt 1.10 crore Niki Prasad 50 lakh Minnu Mani 40 lakh Nandani Sharma 20 lakh Deeya Yadav 10 lakh Mamatha Madiwala 10 lakh Lucy Hamilton 10 lakh Players acquired at the WPL 2027 auction: Kiran Navgire 75 lakh Uma Kashvi 10 lakh Nazma Khan 10 lakh Kirstie Gordon 10 lakh
Bokaro power supply faces strain as coal stocks dwindle to three days
Jennifer Lawrence confirms 'Hunger Games' return with Josh Hutcherson and Woody Harrelson
Highlights Jennifer Lawrence has confirmed she will reprise Katniss Everdeen in The Hunger Games: Sunrise on the Reaping . Josh Hutcherson and Woody Harrelson will also return to the franchise, although the extent of their roles remains unclear. Lawrence described reuniting with her former co-stars as an emotional experience on the Call Her Daddy podcast. Jennifer Lawrence is returning to The Hunger Games franchise as Katniss Everdeen in the upcoming prequel, Sunrise on the Reaping . The actor confirmed her appearance during an interview on the Call Her Daddy podcast, revealing that Josh Hutcherson and Woody Harrelson will also reprise their roles as Peeta Mellark and an older Haymitch Abernathy, respectively. Lawrence said reuniting with her former co-stars and members of the original crew was an emotional experience. Jennifer Lawrence describes emotional Hunger Games reunion It was so crazy. Because it was the same crew, it was the same camera guys, the same AD [assistant director] who I've worked with a million times too, because I love him. And Josh and Woody and it was so emotional, Lawrence said. She also spoke about her reunion with Hutcherson, who played Peeta in the original films. Josh and I didn't walk to the bathroom without our arms around each other; it was so beautiful, she added. Although Lawrence and Hutcherson's return had been reported in December 2025, neither actor appeared in the film's trailer. Their involvement was not officially confirmed until October 28, 2026. The size of their roles has not been disclosed. Their appearances are expected to be limited, with a possible flash-forward providing a link to the original films. What is Sunrise on the Reaping about? Based on Suzanne Collins' novel of the same name, The Hunger Games: Sunrise on the Reaping explores the 50th Hunger Games, also known as the Second Quarter Quell. The story follows a young Haymitch Abernathy, played by Australian actor Joseph Zada, who is selected as a tribute from District 12. The film explores his experience in the arena and the events that shape him into the mentor later encountered by Katniss and Peeta. Whitney Peak plays Lenore Dove Baird, Haymitch's girlfriend, while Mckenna Grace portrays fellow District 12 tribute Maysilee Donner. Ralph Fiennes takes on the role of Panem's dictator, Coriolanus Snow, while Elle Fanning plays a younger Effie Trinket. The cast also includes Glenn Close as Drusilla Sickle, Maya Hawke as Wiress, Jesse Plemons as Plutarch Heavensbee, Kieran Culkin as Caesar Flickerman and Billy Porter as Magno Stift. When will Sunrise on the Reaping be released? The Hunger Games: Sunrise on the Reaping is scheduled to arrive in theatres on November 20, 2026. The film follows The Hunger Games: The Ballad of Songbirds and Snakes , which explored the earlier life of a young Coriolanus Snow, played by Tom Blyth. While the latest prequel focuses on Haymitch's time in the Games, Lawrence's confirmation offers fans a connection to the original franchise. However, audiences will have to wait to discover how Katniss, Peeta and the older Haymitch feature in the story.
Delhi Capitals Full Squad After WPL 2027 Auction
India batter Kiran Navgire is hoping Delhi Capitals can go all the way in the upcoming WPL after being bought by the franchise that has lost the last four finals of the competition
Milan Icons rope in ex-Australia batter Shaun Marsh for inaugural Italia T10 League
Digital Desk | New Delhi, Oct 28 (IANS) Former Australia batter Shaun Marsh has been signed by Milan Icons for the upcoming Italia T10 League, with the franchise banking on his vast experience to build a competitive side for the inaugural season. The left-handed batter represented Australia in Tests, ODIs and T20Is, and was a member of the side that won the 2015 ODI World Cup on home soil. He also built a reputation as a consistent run-getter in domestic and franchise cricket. The league, which runs from November 18 to 29, aims to widen crickets reach in Italy and give players a franchise platform. Shaun Marshs international career and experience make him a valuable addition to Milan Icons. We are pleased to welcome a player of his calibre as we work towards building a competitive team and supporting the continued development of cricket in Italy, said Milan Icons owner Dr Rashid Ali Khan. CEO Shazi Ahmad felt Marshs vast experience would benefit the squad. Shaun has played cricket at the highest level and brings a wealth of knowledge to the team. His inclusion is a positive step in our preparations for the Italia T10 League, and we remain focused on assembling a strong squad while helping create opportunities for talented cricketers, he said. Previously, former England fast-bowling great James Anderson was named co-owner and captain of Napoli Knights, another franchise in the league. Anderson, 44, will co-own the side with his former Lancashire teammate and one-time manager Luke Sutton, whose talent management agency, Activate Sport and Leisure, will run the franchise. Former England all-rounder Adam Hollioake, currently Kents coach, has been appointed head coach. The announcement came soon after Lancashire decided not to offer Anderson a contract for next season, a move criticised by his former England new-ball partner Stuart Broad. Andersons involvement is a surprise given his well-known lack of interest in franchise cricket. He has only played short-form cricket sporadically during his career. The league, founded by Apex T10 Limited, a company owned by former Essex and Surrey batter Nadeem Shahid, will be launched in Rome. The owners of Pakistan Super League side Quetta Gladiators have bought the Rome franchise. Cricket has grown steadily in Italy, with the mens national team making its T20 World Cup debut earlier this year and beating Nepal by 10 wickets. The side, led by Derbyshires Wayne Madsen and Australian all-rounder Harry Manenti, also ran England close in the tournament.
Sikh pilgrim reaches Gumla on 3,000km journey from Amritsar to Nanded
WPL 2027 auction: Went in with a clear idea of the squad we wanted, says UPW coach Nayar
Digital Desk | Kochi, Oct 28 (IANS) UP Warriorz (UPW) head coach Abhishek Nayar said the franchise went into the 2027 Womens Premier League (WPL) auction with a clear plan and came away with players who would give the side both quality and flexibility. UPW were the busiest franchise at the auction held on Wednesday, adding eight players to the 10 they had retained. Their headline signing was Australia captain Sophie Molineux, the most expensive buy of Wednesdays auction at Rs 1.10 crore. We went into the auction with a clear idea of the kind of squad we wanted to build. Sophie Molineux was a key addition for us, and we are delighted to have secured her services. Along with Grace Harris, Sneh Rana and the other players we have brought in, she gives us a lot of quality and flexibility. We wanted players who could contribute in different situations and complement the core we already have. We are happy with the group we have assembled and look forward to bringing everyone together ahead of the season, Nayar said in a statement issued by the franchise. Besides Sophie, UPW signed Australian all-rounder Grace Harris, India all-rounder Sneh Rana, leg-spinner Asha Sobhana and wicketkeeper-batter Sushma Verma for Rs 30 lakh each. Scotland all-rounder Kathryn Bryce and uncapped Indian all-rounders Sahana Pawar and Manali Dakshini came in for Rs 10 lakh each. The franchise had retained a strong core that includes India all-rounder Deepti Sharma, former Australia captain Meg Lanning, England left-arm spinner Sophie Ecclestone and Australia batter Phoebe Litchfield. Kshemal Waingankar, COO and Director of Cricket at Capri Sports, the franchises owners, said Sophies arrival would strengthen an already potent spin attack. Sophie Molineuxs addition further strengthens our spin attack and puts us in a strong position to explore different combinations. Grace Harris brings power to the middle order, while Sophie offers leadership qualities, exceptional bowling ability and a great presence within the team. We believe the combination of Sophie Molineux and Sophie Ecclestone could be a formidable force for us, while Grace gives us the flexibility to adjust our combinations based on the conditions and match situations, he said. Harris, who began her WPL career with UPW in 2023, returns after winning the 2026 title with Royal Challengers Bengaluru. Sobhana was bought back for a fraction of the Rs 1.1 crore the franchise paid for her in 2026. UP Warriorz squad for 2027 WPL: Meg Lanning, Deepti Sharma, Phoebe Litchfield, Sophie Ecclestone, Harleen Deol, Pratika Rawal, Shikha Pandey, Kranti Gaud, Shipra Giri, Simran Shaikh, Sophie Molineux, Grace Harris, Sneh Rana, Asha Sobhana, Sushma Verma, Kathryn Bryce, Manali Dakshini, and Sahana Pawar.
WPL 2027 Auction: Missed Having Molineux, But Jonassen Will Improve Our Squad, Says Rangarajan
Royal Challengers Bengaluru: Royal Challengers Bengaluru (RCB) head coach Malolan Rangarajan admitted the defending champions would have loved to sign Sophie Molineux at the 2027 Womens Premier League (WPL) auction, though he felt that acquiring her fellow Australian left-arm spin-bowling all-rounder Jess Jonassen would make the side stronger. RCB pushed the bidding for Sophie, a member of their title-winning squad in 2024, to Rs 1.05 crore before UP Warriorz signed her for Rs 1.10 crore. The champions then waited until the accelerated round to sign Jess at her base price of Rs 40 lakh. I think we bid for five players, got four. But it was pretty simple and clear for us. The intention with which we approached this auction was to try to improve our team. We, I think, for lack of a better phrase, tried to throw the kitchen sink at Sophie Molineux. We would have loved to have her. Everybody knows how good a cricketer she is, Rangarajan said in a post-auction press conference. He also said Jess, who offers similar skills with the ball and depth with the bat, was high on RCBs wish list. But a similar left-arm spinner who also gives us depth with batting was JJ, who was very high on our ranking list also. It just so worked out that JJ came later in the auction. So it worked out. That meant after the second set, all the way down to the 11th set, we just had to sit tight. Our priorities: we already have Prathyoosha as our backup keeper, and we knew we had to pick another Indian batter. Again, the batters that we were looking for went unsold. So we knew we could always circle back to the players we wanted, tick off our initial priority of getting one of the overseas left-arm spinners. Were very glad JJ, who weve landed up with, were very happy with that pick, and Im sure shell improve our squad. RCB also signed South Africas batting all-rounder Chloe Tryon and India batter Tejal Hasabnis for Rs 30 lakh each, and opener Vrinda Dinesh for Rs 10 lakh. Very happy. Chloe Tryon is obviously a very experienced international player. Shes now, I think, playing a lot of franchise leagues, also doing well. She just strengthens our squad currently with somebody who gives us depth with batting at maybe anywhere between four and seven. Also very handy with the left-arm spin. The key thing for us was trying to identify experienced players whove already been in the WPL environment. But very, very happy. Now it seems to be a very good mix of experienced players with a couple of youngsters who have now gone on to play for the country. So very happy with Chloe in our squad, added Rangarajan. RCB also signed South Africas batting all-rounder Chloe Tryon and India batter Tejal Hasabnis for Rs 30 lakh each, and opener Vrinda Dinesh for Rs 10 lakh. Very happy. Chloe Tryon is obviously a very experienced international player. Shes now, I think, playing a lot of franchise leagues, also doing well. She just strengthens our squad currently with somebody who gives us depth with batting at maybe anywhere between four and seven. Also Read: Special Cricket Stories Article Source: IANS
How many did Congress win?: HM Amit Shah blasts Rahul Gandhi over MLC poll results
Digital Desk | New Delhi, Oct 28 (IANS) Union Home Minister Amit Shah took a swipe at the Congress party for failing to win a single seat in the biennial Legislative Council (MLC) elections across four states with a social media post on Wednesday. Taking to X, the Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) leader wrote in Hindi, which, roughly translated, means How many out of 28 did the Congress win 0, adding a barb, resign, Ballot Box in an apparent reference to the point that these polls were not held using Electronic Voting Machines (EVMs) that the Congress has repeatedly been alleging as being manipulated. The accompanying illustration features what appears to be the Leader of the Opposition in the Lok Sabha, Rahul Gandhi, sitting and staring at the results. Though MLC results do not determine future Parliamentary or Assembly poll outcomes, they do reflect political influence among specific sections of the society. The MLC elections were limited franchise contests involving graduates and teachers rather than the broader electorate. The BJP-led National Democratic Alliance (NDA) in Karnataka, with Janata Dal (Secular) a constituent, secured a clear 4-0 sweep in the state, leaving the ruling Congress in a quandary. In Uttar Pradesh, the principal contest was between the BJP and the Samajwadi Party (SP), where the former secured victories in multiple constituencies, while the latter won key teachers seats and remained the primary Opposition force. Bihar results reflected a fragmented Opposition landscape, with the BJP and its ally Janata Dal (United) winning several seats, the RJD registering a victory, JSP opening its account, and independents securing wins. The trend continued to be reflected in Maharashtra as well, with the Congress drawing a blank everywhere. The results come amidst the Congress partys renewed thrust at launching Rahul Gandhi in a new, aggressive leadership role and as the face of a united Opposition.
WPL 2027 Auction: Happy With The Depth Weve Built, Says MI Head Coach Luke Williams
T20 World Cup: Mumbai Indians (MI) head coach Luke Williams said the franchise had used the 2027Womens Premier League (WPL) auction to build depth around its retained core, adding that he was excited to see several young players get a chance to be a part of the league. The two-time champions signed six uncapped Indian players at the auction held in Kochi on Wednesday. Shweta Sehrawat was bought for Rs 20 lakh, while Disha Kasat, Latika Inamdar, Bharti Rawal, Saanika Chalke and Akshita Bhagat came in for Rs 10 lakh each. Delhi-based Shweta, UP Warriorzs lone retention in 2026 and a member of Indias 2023 U-19 Womens T20 World Cup winning squad, drew a bidding battle between MI and Delhi Capitals before going for double her base price. Certainly. Obviously, with the retentions, we had a sort of solid core group that we were able to retain. So certainly today was about trying to add to the group, whether thats in the starting XI potentially, or if not, providing different options and coverage through the tournament, depending on what surfaces we play on and if there are any injuries or players out of form. So, really happy with the depth that weve built across different areas and really excited to work with some new players, said Williams in the post-auction press conference. The coach credited MIs scouting team for identifying the recruits. Obviously the scouts did a lot of work identifying different players and then going through various networks to do our research. So, really happy with how its unfolded and excited that some young players get an opportunity at the WPL. Among the new faces, Vidarbha duo Kasat and Inamdar arrived in form, having played key roles in a tense chase against Punjab in the Senior Womens T20 Trophy in Lucknow only a day before the auction. Disha opened and made an unbeaten 66 off 52 balls, while Latika hit 17 off eight balls. Saanika, a 20-year-old left-handed top-order batter, was part of Indias 2025 Under-19 T20 World Cup-winning squad and struck 85 off 53 balls against Jharkhand in the same tournament. Akshita won the Under-23 event of the WPL Speed Queen contest with a top speed of 105kph and recently played for India A against Australia A in Mohali. Among the new faces, Vidarbha duo Kasat and Inamdar arrived in form, having played key roles in a tense chase against Punjab in the Senior Womens T20 Trophy in Lucknow only a day before the auction. Disha opened and made an unbeaten 66 off 52 balls, while Latika hit 17 off eight balls. Also Read: Special Cricket Stories Article Source: IANS
WPL 2027 auction: Not sure it could have gone any better, says DC coach Batty
Digital Desk | Kochi, Oct 28 (IANS) Delhi Capitals (DC) head coach Jonathan Batty said the franchises 2027Womens Premier League (WPL) auction could hardly have gone better, adding that signing big-hitting India batter Kiran Navgire would add much-needed power to their batting line-up. DC bought Kiran for Rs 75 lakh, making her the second-highest-priced player at the auction held on Wednesday, after edging competition from Mumbai Indians. They also picked up Scotland left-arm spinner Kirstie Gordon and uncapped all-rounders Delhis Nazma Khan and Karnatakas 15-year-old Uma Kashvi - for Rs 10 lakh each. Really pleased. Does an auction ever go completely to plan? Probably not quite, but as close to what we were hoping for. We had a couple of different pivots we could have made. We identified early we wanted a hard-hitting or dynamic Indian batter, and we got that in Kiran Navgire early. Getting the Scottish left-arm spinner Kirstie Gordon over the line as well. She gives us lots of options as well, being allowed to start in the playing eleven as a local (associate) player, which weve used successfully in the past. So weve got a couple of really young, exciting players as well coming in with Nazma and Uma. So no, really, really, really pleased. Not sure it could have gone any better, to be honest, Batty told reporters in a press conference. Kirstie, who played for England before switching to Scotland, will be counted as an Associate player, which allows the four-time finalists to field her without using one of their four overseas slots. Batty said Kirans ability to bash spin and her power-hitting would fill a gap in DCs batting, though the side curiously chose not to have a back-up wicketkeeper-batter. Shes one of the most dynamic batters in the auction. Shes a wonderful player of spin through the middle order. We felt one area we were potentially lacking at times has been a little bit of power in our batting, and we feel that she can give that to us. Again, shes probably the most dynamic batter in the auction, one of the biggest hitters in the game. She had a great year a couple of years ago at the WPL. She just gives us some extra firepower, possibly playing a few different roles for us as well within our batting lineup. So really strengthens our already strong batting lineup, but just gives a bit extra power. Delhi have reached the final in each of the four WPL editions so far but are yet to win the title. The 2027 WPL season will be played from January 14 to February 7, though the venues are yet to be known.
WPL 2027: Full Squads Of All Five Franchises After Mini-Auction
The Women's Premier League (WPL) 2027 auction is over. Australia captain Sophie Molineux was the most expensive buy at the 2027 Women's Premier League (WPL) auction, going to UP Warriorz (UPW) for Rs...
WPL 2027 Auction: RCB Open Account With Jonassen, MI Pick Saanika, GG Take Samaira
Royal Challengers Bengaluru: Defending champions Royal Challengers Bengaluru (RCB) made their first signing of the 2027Womens Premier League (WPL) auction by landing Australias left-arm spin all-rounder Jess Jonassen for Rs 40 lakh here on Wednesday. Two-time champions Mumbai Indians picked up promising batter Saanika Chalke and Gujarat Giants signed 16-year-old Samaira Raghav as the accelerated round got under way. Jess, who played three seasons for Delhi Capitals, was the first player to go under the hammer in the accelerated round. RCB, who had not bid for anyone until then, got the left-arm spinning all-rounder at her base price. She is currently out of the Womens Big Bash League (WBBL) with a neck injury but is expected to be fit by January. MI bought Saanika, a 20-year-old left-handed top-order batter, for her base price of Rs 10 lakh. A member of Indias 2025 Under-19 T20 World Cup-winning squad, Saanika first made headlines with a double hundred for Mumbai in an Under-19 one-day match against Sikkim in 2022. She was the leading run-getter in the Mumbai T20 league earlier this year with 223 runs from five matches, and struck 85 off 53 balls against Jharkhand in the ongoing Senior Womens T20 Trophy just ahead of the auction. GG used their final slot on 16-year-old Delhi all-rounder Samaira by signing her for Rs 10 lakh. She was one of four players added to the auction list on the eve of the auction. UP Warriorz continued their busy evening by adding three more players: Scotland all-rounder Kathryn Bryce and uncapped India all-rounders Manali Dakshini and Sahana Pawar, each for Rs 10 lakh. Kathryn found a buyer even though her sister, wicketkeeper-batter Sarah Bryce, went unsold earlier in the day. Delhi Capitals signed 15-year-old uncapped all-rounder Uma Kashvi by bidding for her at the last moment, and Scotland left-arm spinner Kirstie Gordon, both for Rs 10 lakh. Gordon played five T20Is and a Test for England, including the 2018 T20 World Cup final, before switching to Scotland, and will now be considered an Associate player. The accelerated round took the number of players sold at the auction so far to 18, leaving nine slots still to be filled across the franchises in the next round. Several players went unsold in the round, including Indias leg-spin bowling all-rounder Devika Vaidya, who recently returned to competitive cricket after motherhood. Kathryn found a buyer even though her sister, wicketkeeper-batter Sarah Bryce, went unsold earlier in the day. Delhi Capitals signed 15-year-old uncapped all-rounder Uma Kashvi by bidding for her at the last moment, and Scotland left-arm spinner Kirstie Gordon, both for Rs 10 lakh. Gordon played five T20Is and a Test for England, including the 2018 T20 World Cup final, before switching to Scotland, and will now be considered an Associate player. Also Read: Special Cricket Stories Article Source: IANS
SIR: Disposal of cases reveals sharp inter-constituency gap
WPL 2027 full squads: How MI, RCB, DC, GG, UPW stack up after the auction
The five franchises Royal Challengers Bengaluru, Mumbai Indians, Delhi Capitals, Gujarat Giants and UP Warriorz had a total of 27 slots to fill.
WPL 2027 Auction: Didnt Expect To Land Vrinda Dinesh, Says RCB Head Coach Rangarajan
Royal Challengers Bengaluru: Royal Challengers Bengaluru (RCB) head coach Malolan Rangarajan said he had not expected the franchise to secure opener Vrinda Dinesh, after the defending champions completed their squad with four signings at the 2027 Womens Premier League (WPL) auction. RCB bought Australias left-arm spin bowling all-rounder Jess Jonassen for Rs 40 lakh, currently nursing a neck injury which has ruled her out of the WBBL. The side also brought in South Africas batting all-rounder Chloe Tryon and India batter Tejal Hasabnis for Rs 30 lakh each, and Vrinda for Rs 10 lakh. The additions bolster their spin bowling, all-round depth and Indian batting options. Rangarajan was particularly pleased at bringing home Vrinda, who was born and brought up in Bengaluru. Ill be honest, I didnt expect us to land Vrinda, so Im very happy that weve been able to bring a Karnataka-born player into the squad. She has been doing exceptionally well for India A, and as soon as we saw an opportunity to bring her into the team, we made sure we took it across the line, Rangarajan said in a statement by the franchise at the conclusion of the auction. He also said Chloes experience and versatility made her a valuable addition. Im very happy to have Chloe Tryon in our squad. She is a very experienced international player who has been playing in franchise leagues and performing well. She adds depth to our batting, with the ability to bat anywhere between No. 4 and No. 7, and is also very handy with her left-arm spin. One of the key things for us was identifying experienced players who have already been part of the WPL environment. We now have a very good mix of experienced players and a couple of youngsters who are looking to play for the country. Were very happy to have Chloe in the squad, added Rangarajan. RCB went into the auction with 13 retained players and Rs 1.15 crore in their purse. Rangarajan said Ellyse Perrys return was a major boost and explained that Grace Harris had been released partly to free up funds, since franchises did not get a purse increase this year. Honestly, Perry coming back was huge for us. There was a void in our batting without her, but we have to give a lot of credit to our girls last year, who did well to counter her absence. With her coming back, we have a very, very good player at number three. One big distinction with this auction is the fact that you dont have an additional purse coming through in every auction. The IPL or the WPL usually have an increment every year. This year, you dont. One of the reasons behind releasing Grace was that we wanted to manufacture a little bit of purse coming into the auction, and we wanted to be competitive. Grace, who played a key role in RCBs 2026 title win, was bought back by UP Warriorz for her base price of Rs 30 lakh. Honestly, Perry coming back was huge for us. There was a void in our batting without her, but we have to give a lot of credit to our girls last year, who did well to counter her absence. With her coming back, we have a very, very good player at number three. Also Read: Special Cricket Stories Article Source: IANS
55 get artificial limbs at Jamshedpur camp
From gatherings to art, citizens turn HEC grounds into green movement hub
WPL Auction: Navgire's Delhi Move Comes with a Clear Mission
Indian cricketers Kiran Navgire and Sneh Rana express their excitement and hopes for the upcoming Women's Premier League (WPL) season. Navgire, bought by Delhi Capitals for Rs 75 lakh, aims to help the team win their first title, while Rana, joining UP Warriorz for Rs 30 lakh, looks forward to contributing with her new franchise and playing under Meg Lanning.
James Anderson Takes On Ownership Role At Napoli Knights After Lancashire Exit
England cricket great James Anderson is the new co-owner of a Naples-based franchise in the inaugural Italia T10 League, which is set to launch next month
Cockroach Janta Party extends support to INDIA Blocs November 1 rally
Digital Desk | New Delhi, Oct 28 (IANS) The Cockroach Janta Party has announced its support for the INDIA blocs planned rally on November 1 over the ongoing Special Intensive Revision (SIR) of electoral rolls. In a post on X, party founder Abhijeet Dipke wrote that the Cockroach Janta Party is extending support to the INDIA Blocs November 1 rally. The party said the fundamental principle of democracy is that people choose their government, not the other way around. It alleged that the SIR exercise had raised serious concerns about the removal of eligible voters from electoral rolls. Recalling the vision of Dr BR Ambedkar and the Constitution makers, the party emphasised that every adult citizen, irrespective of caste, religion, gender, education or economic background, has an equal right to vote. It noted that when the Constitution was framed, leaders including Jawaharlal Nehru and Ambedkar placed their faith in the people and believed democracy could succeed only when every citizen had an equal say. The idea, it said, was to bring more citizens into the democratic process rather than keep them out of it. The Cockroach Janta Party expressed concern that instead of making it easier for citizens to exercise their franchise, the SIR process had generated fears of exclusion. It asserted that the Election Commissions responsibility is to protect every eligible citizens voting right and not create obstacles to it. The party declared that it would support all organisations fighting for free and fair elections in the country. The INDIA bloc has announced a series of programmes, including a mock parliamentary session and a large rally at Ramleela Maidan in Delhi on November 1, to demand accountability from the Election Commission. Dipke positioned his partys support as an act of prioritising national interest over partisan lines. Though the Cockroach Janta Party has limited organisational presence and does not hold significant electoral strength, its public endorsement adds to the list of smaller outfits aligning with the oppositions campaign. The ruling side has dismissed such demands as politically motivated and maintained that the Commission functions independently. As the countdown to November 1 begins, the opposition is seeking to convert public dissatisfaction over electoral issues into a visible show of strength in the national capital.
WPL 2027 Auction: Confident That DC Will Become Champions This Year, Says Navgire
Match Centre Live Auction Special: India batter Kiran Navgire on Wednesday backed Delhi Capitals to finally win their maiden Womens Premier League (WPL) title after the four-time finalists signed her for Rs 75 lakh at the WPL 2027 auction. Navgire was the second-most expensive buy of the auction, with Delhi beating Mumbai Indians in a bidding contest to land the big-hitting batter. I am very excited to play for Delhi Capitals. I have played with Chinelle Henry before, and I have also played with Shafali Verma. I have also spoken to Jemimah Rodrigues in the past, so I know most of the players. I am very excited to share the dressing room and play alongside all of them, Navgire said on JioStars Match Centre Live Auction Special. The 2027 WPL season will be played from January 14 to February 7. DC have reached the final in each of the four editions of the WPL but are yet to lift the trophy. Delhi Capitals have reached the final four times, so this year we have a chance to win it. I am fully prepared to play for Delhi Capitals. I feel that whatever the team has been waiting for over the last four years will finally be fulfilled this season. I am confident that DC will become champions this year, added Kiran, who previously played for UP Warriorz. Veteran wicketkeeper-batter Sushma Verma, who returns to the WPL after being picked by UP Warriorz for her base price of Rs 30 lakh, said her patience had finally paid off after going unsold in the last three auctions. Im very grateful for this opportunity to represent UP Warriorz. I was just hoping and waiting for it. Every player works hard and performs, but in franchise cricket, sometimes the slot is not made for you. I was not picked in the last three auctions, but I was very hopeful that one day my hard work would pay off and everything would fall into place. So, after getting picked by UPW, Im feeling good. A big thanks to UP Warriorz for showing that trust, she said. Uncapped wicketkeeper-batter Latika Inamdar, signed by Mumbai Indians for Rs 10 lakh, was thrilled to be joining the two-time champions along with her friend Bharti Rawal, whom MI also bought for Rs 10 lakh. I was not picked in the last three auctions, but I was very hopeful that one day my hard work would pay off and everything would fall into place. So, after getting picked by UPW, Im feeling good. A big thanks to UP Warriorz for showing that trust, she said. Also Read: Special Cricket Stories Article Source: IANS
HC orders railways to pay Rs 8 lakh to family of ticketless accident victim
WPL 2027: Full squads of all five teams after mini auction
The WPL (Womens Premier League) 2027 mini auction came to an end, and the five franchises brought home some brilliant players into their ranks ahead of the upcoming edition of the WPL. It is worth noting that UP Warriorz was the most active team in the auction, bringing home several star players, hoping to play some good cricket .
Royal Challengers Bengaluru: Australia captain Sophie Molineux was the most expensive buy at the 2027 Womens Premier League (WPL) auction, going to UP Warriorz (UPW) for Rs 1.10 crore in Kochi on Wednesday. In all, 25 players were sold in a quick mini auction that needed less than an hour of active bidding. UPW were the busiest franchise of the evening with eight signings, while defending champions Royal Challengers Bengaluru (RCB) did all their business in the accelerated rounds after losing out on Sophie early in the day. Sophie, who was part of RCBs title-winning squad in 2024 and missed WPL 2026, entered the auction at a base price of Rs 50 lakh. RCB, her former side, pushed UPW all the way to Rs 1.05 crore before dropping out, having started the day with only Rs 1.15 crore in their purse. The left-arm spin bowling all-rounder, who captained Australia to 2026 Womens T20 World Cup triumph in England, recently returned to international cricket after recovering from a hip injury. Delhi Capitals made the second-biggest buy by signing big-hitting India batter Kiran Navgire for Rs 75 lakh after a bidding contest with Mumbai Indians, who pulled out at Rs 70 lakh. Gujarat Giants landed young wicketkeeper-batter G Kamalini for her base price of Rs 40 lakh, with no other franchise bidding for the 2025 Under-19 World Cup winner who recently won the Asia Cup and Asian Games gold medal with the senior team. Apart from Sophie, UPW brought back Australian all-rounder Grace Harris, who began her WPL career with them in 2023 and won the 2026 title with RCB. They also signed Indias off-spin bowling all-rounder Sneh Rana, joining her fourth franchise in five seasons, and veteran wicketkeeper-batter Sushma Verma, all for Rs 30 lakh each. UPW also added Scotland all-rounder Kathryn Bryce and uncapped all-rounders Manali Dakshini and Sahana Pawar for Rs 10 lakh each. They brought back leg-spinner Asha Sobhana for Rs 30 lakh, at a fraction of the Rs 1.1 crore they had paid for her in the 2026 auction. UPWs shopping has, however, left them with a selection puzzle. With Meg Lanning set to lead the side and Phoebe Litchfield an automatic pick at the top of the order, Sophie, Grace and Englands left-arm spinner Sophie Ecclestone could end up competing for the remaining two overseas spots. UPW may well field an all-Australian overseas quartet on a regular basis. RCB, who had not bid for anyone until the accelerated round, opened their account with Australias left-arm spin bowling all-rounder Jess Jonassen for her base price of Rs 40 lakh. They then added India batter Tejal Hasabnis, who had gone unsold in the opening round, and South Africa all-rounder Chloe Tryon for Rs 30 lakh each, and Bengaluru-based batter Vrinda Dinesh for Rs 10 lakh. The defending champions were under little pressure to buy, and the signings of Jess and Chloe add depth to their overseas options. Georgia Voll, Ellyse Perry, Nadine de Klerk and Lauren Bell, all central to RCBs title run in 2026, look set to fill the four overseas slots, making it hard to see both newcomers getting regular game time. Mumbai Indians (MI) went towards buying youngsters by picking up six uncapped players. Vidarbha teammates Disha Kasat and Latika Inamdar, who had played key roles in a Senior Womens T20 Trophy chase against Punjab only a day earlier, were signed for Rs 10 lakh each. Other MI signings include Delhis left-arm spinner Bharti Rawal, 2025 Under-19 World Cup winner Saanika Chalke and 19-year-old all-rounder Akshita Bhagat, a winner of the WPL Speed Queen U-23 competition and recently played for India. Delhi batter and 2023 U-19 World Cup winner Shweta Sehrawat, who was UPWs lone retention in 2026, went to MI for Rs 20 lakh, double her base price, after a brief tussle with Delhi Capitals. Disha, Latika and Shweta give the franchise plenty of batting cover. With Kamalini no longer in their ranks, Disha or Latika could get an early chance to play. Gujarat Giants (GG), who needed only three players, also signed Ireland all-rounder Orla Prendergast for Rs 30 lakh, making her the first Irish cricketer picked in the WPL. They used their final slot on 16-year-old Delhi all-rounder Samaira Raghav, a late addition to the auction pool, for Rs 10 lakh. Spending Rs 40 lakh on Kamalini, who was tipped to get a big payday, might look odd for a side that already has two wicketkeepers in Yastika Bhatia and Beth Mooney. GG, however, made it clear they see her as a valuable addition purely for her batting. Orlas signing also made history, as she became the first Irish cricketer to be picked in the WPL. Delhi Capitals (DC), the four-time runners-up, added 15-year-old Karnataka all-rounder Uma Kashvi, Scotland left-arm spinner Kirstie Gordon, a former England international who will now count as an Associate player, and uncapped Delhi all-rounder Nazma Khan, each for Rs 10 lakh. DCs most surprising decision, though, was not buying a wicketkeeper. Having released Taniya Bhatia and Lizelle Lee, the franchise is now relying entirely on 23-year-old Mamatha Madiwala behind the stumps, with no back-up keeper in the squad. Hyderabad-based Mamatha played a handful of matches for DC in 2025 before an injury ruled her out of the 2026 season. The franchise will, however, be allowed to sign replacements if Deeya Yadav and Uma Kashvi are picked for the 2027 Under-19 Womens T20 World Cup. Several established names went unsold. These included Sri Lanka captain Chamari Athapaththu, England batter Sophia Dunkley and India wicketkeepers Taniya Bhatia, Uma Chetry and Nuzhat Parween. India spinners Saika Ishaque and Priya Mishra, pacer Titas Sadhu and all-rounder Devika Vaidya also went unsold, as did Australias Tayla Vlaeminck, South Africas Nonkululeko Mlaba and UAE captain Esha Oza. The 2027 WPL season will be played from January 14 to February 7, with venues yet to be known. Players picked by franchises in the WPL 2027 player auction: Delhi Capitals: Kiran Navgire, Nazma Khan, Kirstie Gordon, and Uma Kashvi Gujarat Giants: G Kamalini, Orla Prendergast, and Samaira Raghav Mumbai Indians: Disha Kasat, Bharti Rawal, Latika Inamdar, Akshita Bhagat, Shweta Sehrawat, and Saanika Chalke Royal Challengers Bengaluru: Jess Jonassen, Tejal Hasabnis, Chloe Tryon, and Vrinda Dinesh Mumbai Indians: Disha Kasat, Bharti Rawal, Latika Inamdar, Akshita Bhagat, Shweta Sehrawat, and Saanika Chalke Also Read: Special Cricket Stories Article Source: IANS
RMC cracks down on illegal buildings in Morabadi, serves notices to 15
Govt land must be vacated: DC on Baramuri Khatal eviction row
WPL 2027 Auction: RCB Sign Hasabnis, Tryon And Vrinda; UPW Get Back Sobhana As Proceedings End
Royal Challengers Bengaluru: Defending champions Royal Challengers Bengaluru (RCB) went on a late spending spree by signing India batter Tejal Hasabnis, South Africas left-arm spin bowling all-rounder Chloe Tryon and uncapped batter Vrinda Dinesh in the final accelerated round, as the 2027 Womens Premier League (WPL) auction came to a close here on Wednesday. All five franchises completed their squads in what turned out to be a brisk mini auction, with less than an hour of active bidding. Tejal, a member of India's recent 3-0 ODI series win over Zimbabwe, went unsold in the opening round. In the second accelerated round, she was bought by RCB at her base price of Rs 30 lakh. RCB then picked Chloe for Rs 30 lakh. The South African all-rounder spent two seasons with Mumbai Indians without playing a match before moving to UP Warriorz. She produced a match-winning display against India in the group stage of last years ODI World Cup. Vrinda, who previously played for UP Warriorz, will now play for her home franchise after RCB signed her for Rs 10 lakh. UPW, meanwhile, brought back leg-spinner Asha Sobhana for her base price of Rs 30 lakh, a steep drop from the Rs 1.1 crore they had paid for her in 2026 auction. The franchise had released her ahead of this auction to free up funds, only to buy her back at a fraction of the cost. Mumbai Indians added two uncapped players - Shweta Sehrawat, who was UPWs lone retention in 2026. After going unsold before, Shweta sparked a brief bidding contest between MI and Delhi Capitals before the two-time champions got her for Rs 20 lakh, double her base price. MI also signed all-rounder Akshita Bhagat for Rs 10 lakh. Akshita had won the U-23 event of WPL Speed Queen with a top speed of 105kph and recently turned out for India A in their series against Australia A in Mohali. Delhi Capitals made their final signing by picking uncapped all-rounder Nazma Khan for Rs 10 lakh, after she had gone unsold earlier in the evening. Uncapped batters Humaira Kazi and Pranavi Chandra and pacer Shraddha Pokharkar went unsold for the second time, while left-arm wrist-spin bowling all-rounder Amandeep Kaur also failed to attract a bid. Akshita had won the U-23 event of WPL Speed Queen with a top speed of 105kph and recently turned out for India A in their series against Australia A in Mohali. Delhi Capitals made their final signing by picking uncapped all-rounder Nazma Khan for Rs 10 lakh, after she had gone unsold earlier in the evening. Also Read: Special Cricket Stories Article Source: IANS
CJI Surya Kant to visit Deoghar on Nov 2
Festival shopping across state may be hit by inclement weather
Match Centre Live Auction Special: Gujarat Giants head coach Michael Klinger said the signings of G Kamalini and Orla Prendergast at the 2027 Womens Premier League (WPL) auction had given the franchise greater flexibility, especially in how it uses its overseas players in the upcoming season. GG bought wicketkeeper-batter Kamalini for her base price of Rs 40 lakh and seam-bowling all-rounder Orla for Rs 30 lakh. We picked Kamalini mainly as a batter. We felt she was the best batter on the auction list, and we wanted to add more strength to our batting and give ourselves more options, including with our overseas players. We probably got her for less than we expected, as we thought there would be more bidding. So, we are really happy with the signing, said Klinger on JioStars Match Centre Live Auction Special show. Orla has also become the first Irish cricketer to be picked in the WPL. Klinger, who has worked with her in The Hundred at the Welsh Fire, said the all-rounder would bring a different dimension to the side. She will give us a different approach. The combination of Kamalinis batting and Orlas all-round skills gives us more options with our overseas players. We also have some bowling options in the squad, so we will see if we stick to a similar combination as last year. Orla had a really good World Cup in India last year, so she knows these conditions. I was fortunate enough to work with her in The Hundred last year, so we know each other well. She will be a great addition to the squad and give us more versatility. With Rs 50 lakh left in their purse at that time, Klinger said the Giants had not been sure they would have enough for a final pick and planned to wait for the accelerated round. We were not sure if we would be able to make a final pick, as we thought we might spend more on the first two signings. We now have some time to think about it. The majority of our squad is settled, and we have a few ideas. We will probably wait for the accelerated round. With Rs 50 lakh left in their purse at that time, Klinger said the Giants had not been sure they would have enough for a final pick and planned to wait for the accelerated round. Also Read: Special Cricket Stories Article Source: IANS
Headmaster injured after cylinder catches fire during midday meal preparation
WPL 2027 Auction: Got Kamalini Cheaper Than We Thought, Says GG Coach Klinger
Royal Challengers Bengaluru: Gujarat Giants head coach Michael Klinger said the franchise was pretty much sorted after acquiring G Kamalini and Orla Prendergast at the 2027 Womens Premier League (WPL) auction, adding that both signings had come cheaper than expected. GG signed Kamalini, who previously played for Mumbai Indians, for her base price of Rs 40 lakh and Irelands seam-bowling all-rounder Prendergast for Rs 30 lakh. In all, four teams have managed to pick just 10 players so far, with defending champions Royal Challengers Bengaluru yet to sign a player. Were pretty much sorted. The two selections so far, we probably got cheaper than we thought, to be honest. We felt Kamalini was the best batter in the auction, the most talented batter. We were looking for an all-rounder to complement our squad. With the overseas selection and all of Prendergast as a medium pace all-rounder gives us plenty of options during the season. I was lucky enough to work with her at the Welsh Fire in the Hundred this year. Shes a leading player for Ireland, also has good leadership qualities, and will be fantastic around the group, Klinger told reporters after six sets of the auction were completed on Wednesday. The former Australia batter said Orlas all-round skills made her a valuable addition for GG, as she becomes the first Ireland player to be a part of the five-team tournament. It was for what we needed in terms of the purse we had left and the versatility she can give us in our squad. Whether theres an injury, whether we want to go for another overseas medium pace option, who can bat in the top six or seven. So she gives us a lot of versatility. As I said, Ive worked with her before and shes a world-class all-rounder. So itll be great to have her amongst the squad. Klinger added that the franchises planning had been fairly straightforward, as they needed only a couple of players and had a healthy purse to work with. GG have Rs 55 lakh remaining in their purse, with one slot left to fill and all overseas spots filled. Our planning was not too difficult this time around. Other than the new players, we feel we had the second most in terms of purse because we only really needed to get one player if we had to as well. So given we got Kamalini a little bit cheaper than we thought we might, it opened up that overseas spot for a few options. Klinger added that the franchises planning had been fairly straightforward, as they needed only a couple of players and had a healthy purse to work with. GG have Rs 55 lakh remaining in their purse, with one slot left to fill and all overseas spots filled. Also Read: Special Cricket Stories Article Source: IANS
10,000 RJD workers from Jharkhand to attend INDIA blocs Ramlila Maidan rally against SIR
Heavy rain threat makes JSSC defer physical tests for assistant jailer posts
Couple found dead on Jamtara railway tracks died by train-hit, confirms postmortem
WPL 2027 Auction: At Any Cost Is The Right Answer, Says UPWs Waingankar On Landing Molineux
Royal Challengers Bengaluru: UP Warriorz (UPW) were determined to sign Sophie Molineux at any cost, said Kshemal Waingankar, the franchises COO and Director of, after the Australia captain was bought for Rs 1.10 crore at the Womens Premier League (WPL) 2027 auction. UPW edged competition from defending champions Royal Challengers Bengaluru to get the left-arm spin bowling all-rounder in their team for the 2027 season. Waingankar added that pairing her with Englands left-arm spinner Sophie Ecclestone could make for a lethal combination. UPW also have off-spin bowling options in Deepti Sharma and recently acquired Sneh Rana. At any cost is the right answer. I think that just puts us in a good position, whether thats Sophie and Grace combined, to tweak our combinations and decide which combination works best. Grace brings power to the middle order. Sophie Molineux, obviously, leadership qualities, an exceptional bowler and obviously fantastic with the team in general. So our thought was her and Sophie Ecclestone together would be a lethal force. Again, like I said, with Grace, we have the option of switching and seeing how things work, Waingankar told reporters in the press conference on Wednesday. UPW also brought back Australian all-rounder Grace Harris for her base price of Rs 30 lakh and Waingankar agreed that the deal was a steal. Grace returns to UPW after winning the 2026 WPL title with RCB. I would agree, yes. I definitely agree (that Grace was a steal buy at Rs 30 lakh). But its good to have her back. I think shes been with us from season one. Our first game, I remember, when we had Grace Harris - 51 runs needed off 17 balls. She won us the game and set WPL alight. We were on the other end of the stick last year with her. But shes someone I think that we were very happy to bring back. Not a bad problem to have, he said, referring to the selection headache UPW now face in picking their spin bowling combination in the playing eleven. With four slots, including one overseas spot, still to fill and Rs 1.75 crore left in their purse, Waingankar said UPW were happy with the experience already in the squad, but would look to cover their remaining gaps in the squad. We still have a few spots to fill. Having said that, someone like a Grace Harris does come in and solve a few things for us, whether she can bat up the top, can bat through the middle as well, gives us that power. With four slots, including one overseas spot, still to fill and Rs 1.75 crore left in their purse, Waingankar said UPW were happy with the experience already in the squad, but would look to cover their remaining gaps in the squad. Also Read: Special Cricket Stories Article Source: IANS
Potters in Dhanbad fear losses amid rain alert
MLC results show Rahul Gandhi has little reason to celebrate as face of anti-BJP bloc
Digital Desk | New Delhi, Oct 28 (IANS) The Congress partys ambitious aim of launching Rahul Gandhi in a new, aggressive leadership role and as the face of a united Opposition has suffered a serious setback after failing to win a single seat in the biennial Legislative Council (MLC) elections across four states Bihar, Karnataka, Maharashtra, and Uttar Pradesh. Though the general public as a whole is not directly involved in choosing MLC representatives, specific sections of society do share their preferences. These elections were limited franchise contests involving graduates and teachers rather than the broader electorate, yet are often viewed as indicators of organisational strength, cadre mobilisation and political influence among politically aware sections. And on all three counts, the Congress has little reason to celebrate. The outcome of achieving a zero across all 28 seats contested would thus serve as a rough bump on its road to political recovery, with warning bells sounding particularly loudly in Karnataka where it is in power. The Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP)-led National Democratic Alliance (NDA) in Karnataka, with Janata Dal (Secular) a constituent, secured a clear 4-0 sweep in the state, leaving the ruling Congress in a quandary. The BJP retained the North-East Teachers, South-East Graduates and West Graduates constituencies, while the JD(S) captured the Bengaluru Teachers' seat from the Congress. This outcome is especially significant since the party had hoped to project its state government as a model for a broader national resurgence. Instead, the results suggest that even where Congress holds power, regional dynamics and opposition alliances remain capable of limiting its influence. JD(S), though diminished in Assembly politics, demonstrated that regional players continue to possess pockets of durable support. Results elsewhere also delivered an uncomfortable political message for the Congress. Far from signalling a revival of the party's mass appeal, the elections have underlined its continued inability to build up anti-BJP sentiment or establish itself as the undisputed leader of a united Opposition. In Uttar Pradesh, the principal contest was between the BJP and the Samajwadi Party (SP), where the former secured victories in multiple constituencies, while the latter won key teachers seats and remained the primary Opposition force. Bihar offered a similar sobering picture, with the Congress suffering a symbolic defeat in Darbhanga Teachers' constituency, where Jan Suraaj Party (JSP) candidate Suresh Prasad Rai defeated sitting Congress MLC Madan Mohan Jha. The states overall results reflected a fragmented Opposition landscape, with the BJP and its ally Janata Dal (United) winning several seats, the RJD registering a victory, JSP opening its account, and independents securing wins. Thus, Tejashwi Yadav's RJD continues to command the central anti-BJP role in the state, while Prashant Kishors JSP is seen attempting to build an alternative space, and Congress increasingly appearing squeezed between stronger regional actors. In Maharashtra, counting trends indicated a mixed battle between the ruling Mahayuti alliance and the opposition Maha Vikas Aghadi (MVA), with candidates from both camps leading in different constituencies. Yet here too, the dominant opposition faces were regional leaders from the Shiv Sena (UBT) and NCP (Sharad Pawar) camps rather than the Congress. The results reinforce a reality that has come to define Opposition politics of late: regional satraps continue to carry greater electoral weight than the grand old party of India in most states. Though MLC results do not determine future Assembly or Lok Sabha outcomes, they do reflect the current balance of political influence. And that balance again suggests that India's opposition space remains decentralised, state-driven and heavily dependent on regional leaders. For the BJP, these elections provided evidence that Congress national narrative is yet to translate into strength on the ground. For the Opposition, the Congress may still be an essential component of any anti-BJP coalition, but these elections indicate Rahul Gandhi is far from becoming the blocs unquestioned leader.
WPL 2027 auction: Sneh excited to play under Lanning, Sushma thanks UPW for trust in her abilities
Digital Desk | Kochi, Oct 28 (IANS) India all-rounder Sneh Rana said she was excited to play under Meg Lanning after being snapped up by UP Warriorz at the Womens Premier League (WPL) 2027 auction here on Wednesday. Veteran wicketkeeper-batter Sushma Verma, also picked by the franchise, thanked the franchise for placing their faith in her. Both players were bought for their base price of Rs 30 lakh each in the ongoing auction in Kochi. I am very excited. I have always seen her on TV. Even now when she leads UP, it feels very good. Seeing her captaincy and the changes she makes, it feels very good. So very excited to play under her. Mei aa rahi hoon guys (I am coming, guys), said Sneh to broadcasters Star Sports and JioStar. Sneh, who has previously captained Gujarat Giants and was part of Royal Challengers Bengaluru as a replacement player, had turned out for Delhi Capitals in WPL 2026. First of all, I would like to thank the UP Warriorz for picking me and I am very excited for this opportunity. Like I always say, I will go to any team whenever I get an opportunity. Now that I am in UP, I would like to do my best for them and thank you so much to the management, she added. Sneh added that she was looking forward to linking up with India teammate Deepti Sharma and England left-arm spinner Sophie Ecclestone in what promises to be a strong spin bowling attack for UPW. It is very strong, as you said, Sophie Ecclestone and Deepti Sharma will be with me, with whom I have always played for India. Now that I have also come to UP, so I know their strength. So we will keep talking to each other and it is going to be a lot of fun. Sushma, who last played for India in T20Is a decade ago and was with Gujarat Giants in 2023, returns to the WPL via UPW, a side whose trials she attended. She credited the franchise for showing faith in her. A player is working hard, and everyone works hard and then you perform as well. But a lot of times, especially in franchise cricket, that slot doesnt get made for you. In the last two auctions, it was on the edge. But I was very hopeful that one day my hard work and all these things would come that one day everything will feel good, everything will sync together. So, I am feeling good today. A big thanks to UP Warriorz for showing that trust in me. Although I wasnt expecting that it would happen or not, I was not thinking about it. But when you have played so much cricket, with experience, you learn what work you have to do throughout the day and you get focused on that and then what is next? So, I was always looking forward to the next day and the next tournament. So, it kept on going on its own and the way I have been doing my routines and hard work, I am sure it is the journey of every player. But eventually, when you get the result, when you get the opportunity, it feels really good, she concluded.
WPL 2027 auction: UPW pick Sushma Verma, MI get Disha Kasat as Bhatia, Sobhana, Saika go unsold
Digital Desk | Kochi, Oct 28 (IANS) UP Warriorz (UPW) signed veteran India wicketkeeper-batter Sushma Verma for Rs 30 lakh, and Mumbai Indians picked up uncapped batter Disha Kasat for Rs 10 lakh, in an otherwise quiet phase of the Womens Premier League (WPL) 2027 auction here on Wednesday. It was a phase where a string of India internationals went unsold. UPW continued to be the busiest franchise at the table by landing Sushma at her base price. She last played a T20I for India in December 2016, but was with Gujarat Giants in WPL 2023, and now returns to the league via UPW, a side whose trials she did attend before the auction happened. Disha, formerly with Royal Challengers Bengaluru (RCB) in their title winning season in 2024, was the only uncapped batter to find a buyer via Mumbai Indians. Taniyaa Bhatia, Asha Sobhana and Saika Ishaque were among the big names who failed to attract bids. Sushma was the only one of the four capped wicketkeepers to be picked. Uma Chetry, part of Indias ODI World Cup-winning squad and the first cricketer from Assam to represent India, went unsold, so did Taniyaa, who was released by Delhi Capitals and Nuzhat Parween. Though Taniyaas glovework is highly rated, but franchises have been wary of her batting. Fast bowlers had a lean round too. Indias Saima Thakor and Titas Sadhu, Australias Tayla Vlaeminck, Sri Lankas 19-year-old Mithali Ayodhya and New Zealands Rosemary Mair all went unsold at their base prices. Titas, an Under-19 World Cup winner in 2023 who has played for Delhi Capitals and Gujarat Giants, has had injury concerns. Rosemary was part of New Zealands T20 World Cup-winning squad in 2024. The capped spinners fared no better. Leg-spinner Priya Mishra, who made her India debut in 2024 and has played for Gujarat Giants, did not attract a bid. Left-arm spinner Saika, who made a strong impression in her debut WPL season with Mumbai Indians in 2023 before going on to play for India, did not get a buyer. South Africas Nonkululeko Mlaba, the first player from her country to go under the hammer on the day, was unsold. The most notable of them going unsold was Asha Sobhana, who was part of RCBs title-winning side in 2024, and missed the 2025 season through injury and was then bought by UP Warriorz for Rs 1.1 crore in 2026 after a fierce bidding war. This time, veteran leg-spinner Asha found no takers at Rs 30 lakh. Purvaja Verlekar, former UP Warriorz batter Vrinda Dinesh, former RCB player Gautami Naik, former Mumbai Indians batter Humaira Kazi and Shweta Sehrawat, who was UP Warriorzs lone retention ahead of 2026 WPL auction, all went unsold. Unsold players could still be picked up in the accelerated rounds later in the auction
Luke Williams on Harmanpreet Kaur: What Makes Her a Special Leader?
New MI head coach Luke Williams talks about her competitive edge, composure under pressure and the presence she brings to the franchise ahead of WPL 2027.
Sushma Verma was acquired by UP Warriorz for Rs 30 lakh during the Women's Premier League 2027 mini-auction. Several wicketkeepers and overseas fast bowlers, including Uma Chetry and Taniya Bhatia, went unsold. The auction had 146 players with 27 available slots across five teams. Many players previously associated with franchises failed to attract bids during this round. The franchises aimed to strengthen their rosters ahead of the upcoming season.
After 10 years, teacher test to be held in state, 5.65L candidates to appear
Man on bail found dead in Latehar
Ganja worth Rs 1 cr seized in Chatra
Roadmap laid down to upgrade Anganwadis
Billionaire investor Nelson Peltz makes move to buy struggling Wendy's
Wendy's ( WEN ) may be cooking up burgers for a billionaire soon. Longtime Wendy's investor and former chairman Nelson Peltz of Trian Partners has reportedly offered $1.4 billion to buy the struggling fast food giant, according to an SEC filing. Wendy's shares rose 15% in premarket trading. The company's market cap was $1.17 billion prior to the deal. A Wendy's spokesperson didn't return a request for comment. A spokesperson for Trian Partners didn't return a request for comment. Billionaire Peltz while familiarwith the operations would essentially be buying a dumpster fire. After nearly two years of struggles competing with the likes of behemoths McDonald's ( MCD ) and Yum! Brands' ( YUM ) Taco Bell, plus upstarts such as Shake Shack ( SHAK ), Wendy's is on the cusp of a large number of restaurant closures. With one of its largest franchisees filing bankruptcy in September (although contested by WEN given prior termination of franchise agreement), we think investors likely expect closures to tick higher than expected, but we admit visibility on our side remains somewhat limited and there could still be a range of outcomes, veteran restaurant analyst Andy Barish warned in a recent note. That said, he added, given our view that there are likely additional franchise operators in the system facing challenges with leveraged balance sheets, higher interest rates and profitability pressures from higher beef, labor & build costs (like many others in QSR), we think it is prudent to moderate our development estimates and bake in more potential closures over the next 6-12 months, as the company works to strengthen its system. Meritage Hospitality Group, one of Wendy's largest franchise operators, with more than 300 locations, filed for Chapter 11 bankruptcy protection in September following severe margin pressures and an escalating dispute with corporate headquarters. The company reportedly initiated plans to shutter at least 41 locations. Reports emerged this week that it could close up to 60. The high-profile bankruptcy only added grease to the smoldering fire that is the Wendy's restaurant base. Franchisees had already been closing their locations and heading for the hills. Buried inside Wendy's brutal second quarter earnings call was a mention that 289 locations closed in the US during the first half of the year. There are about 5,700 Wendy's in the US, and Barish estimated the Wendy's US store base will be around 5,600 by the end of 2027. The decision on how many more locations will be closed falls on new CEO Bob Wright, who hasn't hidden his view that Wendy's needs to focus on more profitable locations. Wright officially took over as CEO on May 21, adding to the yawning list of executive turnover at the fast food chain over the past two years. He is a seasoned fast food exec who spent the previous five years fixing Potbelly as CEO. Wright's appointment marked a return to Wendy's, where he previously served in several senior leadership roles, including COO. Wright has his work cut out for him in saving Wendy's beyond tightening up the store base count. Wendy's has posted six straight quarters of same-store sales declines, per Yahoo Finance AlphaSpace analysis. Follow Brian Sozzi on X @BrianSozzi , Instagram , and LinkedIn . Tips on stories? Email him at brian.sozzi@yahoofinance.com. This article originally appeared on Yahoo Finance at https://finance.yahoo.com/markets/stocks/article/billionaire-investor-nelson-peltz-makes-move-to-buy-struggling-wendys-121633943.html
All-new Amazon Echo Time now up for grabs with Alexa+, sleep sensing, touchscreen, and more
Amazon has unleashed a fresh batch of Alexa devices today , and one of the more interesting additions is the new Echo Time . Its an all-new Alexa+ smart alarm clock built specifically for the nightstand, with a compact spherical design and a 3.2-inch circular touchscreen that can be customized with hundreds of different clock faces. You can choose from analog and digital styles, seasonal themes, sports teams, and characters from franchises like Harry Potter, Batman, Superman, and more. Head below for a closer look and more details. more
WPL Auction: No bids for Sri Lanka star Chamari Athapaththu
Sri Lanka captain Chamari Athapaththu, despite her experience and influence, went unsold at the Women's Premier League 2027 auction in Kochi, failing to attract any bids from franchises.
For decades, Hollywood has dominated the market for large-scale cinematic spectacles. From Star Wars and The Lord of the Rings to Avatar and the Marvel Cinematic Universe, American studios have mastered the art of transforming extraordinary fictional worlds into multibillion-dollar entertainment properties. Indian cinema has produced its own spectacular successes, particularly with Baahubali, RRR, KGF and several other ambitious productions. But with Ramayana: Part One, the industry is attempting something particularly audacious. It is taking one of the world's oldest and most culturally significant epic narratives and presenting it as a technologically ambitious, multi-part theatrical spectacle. The project raises a fascinating question. Could Ramayana become India's answer to Hollywood's biggest fantasy franchises? And more importantly, should Hollywood be paying attention? India already possesses something Hollywood spends billions trying to create One of the biggest challenges facing entertainment companies is developing intellectual property that audiences recognise and care about. Hollywood studios invest enormous sums in building cinematic universes, introducing characters, establishing fictional worlds and persuading audiences to return for sequels. Ramayana begins with an extraordinary advantage. Its characters and central narrative have existed in cultural memory for centuries. The epic has inspired literature, theatre, television, music, art and countless retellings across different countries and traditions. For millions of people, Rama, Sita, Lakshman, Hanuman and Ravana are already familiar figures. In commercial terms, that is an extraordinary foundation for a major cinematic project. The makers do not need to create awareness of the underlying story among Indian audiences. They need to persuade viewers that their interpretation is worth experiencing on the big screen. However, this advantage is accompanied by a unique responsibility. Unlike an entirely fictional cinematic universe, the Ramayana carries profound religious and cultural significance. Its characters cannot be treated simply as commercially exploitable intellectual property. The challenge is to combine the ambitions of a global blockbuster with sensitivity towards the traditions from which the story emerges. The Avatar comparison: Technology must create emotion James Cameron's Avatar franchise established new benchmarks for visual effects, immersive world-building and theatrical spectacle. But its success cannot be explained by technology alone. Audiences were drawn into Pandora because the visual environment supported the characters, conflicts and emotional journey. For Ramayana, the technological ambition is similarly important. The involvement of Prime Focus Studios and DNEG has generated expectations of sophisticated visual effects and elaborate cinematic environments. Ayodhya, Lanka, forests, palaces, extraordinary creatures and large-scale battles provide immense opportunities for visual storytelling. Yet the lesson from Avatar is that technical sophistication must create immersion rather than merely showcase expensive imagery. A spectacular digital environment means little if audiences do not believe in the characters inhabiting it. The real test will be whether viewers become emotionally involved in the story rather than simply admiring the scale of its production. The Lord of the Rings comparison: The importance of world-building Peter Jackson's The Lord of the Rings trilogy offers another useful comparison. The films succeeded partly because Middle-earth felt like a coherent world with its own history, geography, cultures and visual identity. The filmmakers devoted extraordinary attention to costumes, architecture, landscapes, weapons, languages and the smallest details of the fictional universe. Ramayana presents a comparable challenge, although its source material and cultural context are fundamentally different. The filmmakers must establish distinctive visual identities for Ayodhya and Lanka, create convincing environments and ensure that the world feels internally consistent. The audience should be able to understand the differences between these places through their architecture, atmosphere, design and storytelling. This is particularly important for viewers unfamiliar with the epic. A strong cinematic world can make an unfamiliar narrative accessible without requiring lengthy explanations. But the comparison with The Lord of the Rings also highlights another crucial factor. World-building succeeds when audiences feel that the environment is real within the logic of the story. Expensive sets and elaborate visual effects cannot compensate for an inconsistent cinematic vision. The financial equation: Bigger isn't always better Hollywood's largest franchises are supported by sophisticated commercial ecosystems. Their revenue comes not only from theatrical collections but also from streaming, television, licensing, merchandise, games and long-term franchise exploitation. A film's worldwide gross is only one component of its financial performance. For Ramayana, the economics of such an ambitious project deserve close examination. The scale of the production implies substantial financial expectations. But reported budgets must be interpreted carefully, particularly when expenditure may cover multiple instalments, shared assets and long-term production infrastructure. A project can achieve enormous box-office collections and still face profitability challenges if costs are exceptionally high. Conversely, investments in visual assets, technology and production infrastructure may deliver benefits across sequels or future projects. This is where the comparison with Hollywood becomes especially relevant. The world's biggest studios do not merely produce expensive films. They build commercial systems that can generate returns over many years. Whether Ramayana can create a comparable long-term model will depend on far more than its opening weekend. The sequel challenge A major advantage of a multi-part cinematic project is the possibility of building anticipation across instalments. Baahubali: The Beginning demonstrated how a compelling narrative cliffhanger could transform a sequel into a nationwide event. The Lord of the Rings showed how a sustained creative vision across multiple films could deepen audience engagement. For Ramayana, the first instalment must achieve two objectives simultaneously. It must deliver a satisfying theatrical experience in its own right while creating anticipation for the continuation. If audiences leave feeling that they have watched an incomplete film rather than a compelling chapter of a larger story, the sequel strategy could become a disadvantage. On the other hand, if the first instalment establishes memorable characters, a convincing world and powerful emotional stakes, the next chapter could benefit from substantial built-in demand. Why Hollywood should pay attention The significance of Ramayana extends beyond whether it matches the collections of Avatar or The Lord of the Rings. The larger question is whether major cinematic spectacles must continue to emerge predominantly from Hollywood. India possesses a vast storytelling tradition, a large domestic theatrical market, increasingly sophisticated production capabilities and audiences willing to support ambitious films. If Ramayana demonstrates that these advantages can be combined into a globally successful franchise, it could encourage more large-scale productions rooted in Indian stories. That would not necessarily threaten Hollywood's dominance overnight. But it could broaden the industry's understanding of where globally marketable cinematic properties can originate. There is also a creative opportunity. Rather than imitating Hollywood's storytelling formulas, Indian filmmakers could introduce international audiences to narrative traditions, visual identities and emotional sensibilities that feel genuinely different. That distinctiveness may ultimately prove more valuable than attempting to replicate an American blockbuster. The final verdict It would be premature to call Ramayana India's Avatar or The Lord of the Rings. Those franchises earned their reputations through their films' execution, audience response, commercial success and long-term cultural influence. Ramayana has yet to undergo those tests. But the ambition itself is significant. For years, Indian cinema has looked towards Hollywood for benchmarks in visual effects, production scale and international distribution. With Ramayana, the industry has an opportunity to demonstrate that its own stories can support cinematic spectacles of comparable ambition. The question is not whether India can spend enough money to compete with Hollywood. It is whether Indian filmmakers can combine technology, storytelling and cultural authenticity to create something that global audiences have never experienced before. Hollywood doesn't need to fear Ramayana. But it may have a very good reason to watch it. Also Read: Is Ramayana benefiting from Adipurushs failure? The surprising advantage nobody is talking about
CISF intensifies security checks at Bokaro CCL coal belt sites
Everyone Was Shocked: Du Plessis Recalls Smith Replacing Dhoni As RPS Captain
Faf Du Plessis: Former South Africa captain Faf du Plessis said everyone in the Rising Pune Supergiants (RPS) dressing room was shocked on hearing that MS Dhoni was removed as the sides captain and replaced by premier Australian batter Steve Smith ahead of the 2017 edition of the Indian Premier League (IPL). Du Plessis, who was in the squad then, also said Smith handled the role admirably despite being new to leadership. Dhoni was stripped of the RPS captaincy before the 2017 IPL season began. It was a decision taken by the franchise owner, Sanjiv Goenka, at that time. Smith, who was early in his Australian captaincy career, took charge with Dhoni playing under him, and guided the Pune-based franchise to the 2017 IPL final, where they lost to Mumbai Indians by one run. It was also RPS's last game of the tournament. MS Dhoni was removed as captain of Rising Pune Supergiants after the end of the 2016 IPL season, and thats the biggest move you can make in a tournament of that stature. We hadnt won a couple of games, and the owner at the time made the decision to change the captain. Everyone was shocked after that call. MS Dhoni as captain was gone, and Steve Smith was the new captain. That was pretty early on in his leadership career. He wasnt experienced, but he did a good job. It was tough having MS Dhoni as your number two there, especially after hed just been removed as captain. Smith led the team to the final, and we lost that final, which we should have won. We were that close. Winning that final would have made Smith an IPL-winning captain in just one season of captaincy. That says a lot about him, du Plessis said on Cricinfos Cricketers on Cricketers show. RPS and Gujarat Lions were brought in as stand-in franchises for two seasons after Chennai Super Kings (CSK) and Rajasthan Royals (RR) were suspended over their team officials' involvement in illegal betting, following the 2013 IPL spot-fixing and betting scandal. Smith led the team to the final, and we lost that final, which we should have won. We were that close. Winning that final would have made Smith an IPL-winning captain in just one season of captaincy. That says a lot about him, du Plessis said on Cricinfos Cricketers on Cricketers show. Also Read: Special Cricket Stories Article Source: IANS
Chatra man arrested with 600grams of opium
Foetus remains being carried by dog traced to private hospital, facility sealed
WPL Auction 2027 Live Updates: Grace Harris, Sneh Rana to come under the hammer in marquee event
The mini auction of the WPL (Women's Premier League) 2027 is all set to commence. The marquee event will be held in Kochi on October 28th, and all the five franchises will look to put...
WS admin launches drive to promote Utensil Banks in rural areas
Four injured as SUV collides with autorickshaw in Latehar
WPL 2027: Mini Auction More About Planning Than Instinct, Says GG Coach Klinger
The Ashleigh Gardner: Gujarat Giants (GG) head coach Michael Klinger believes the WPL 2027 mini auction would be driven far more by planning than instinct, as all five franchises go in with a clear picture of how many slots they need to fill and which skill-sets they are eyeing to complete their respective squads. GG go into the auction in Kochi with the second-biggest purse, Rs 1.25 crore, and three slots to fill. The Ashleigh Gardner-led side made the playoffs last season but lost to Delhi Capitals in the Eliminator. If I had to sum up the auction day in a few words, by the end of the auction Id just like to be thinking Oh, excited for a fantastic season. I think we were really happy with our retentions. Weve got a strong squad already, so the additions we have in the auction will just increase our depth, give us options for our starting eleven. But we also feel with what weve retained, weve got a really strong squad. I think in a mini auction, its probably less instinct. I think it can be a bit more planned because exactly how many spots, probably what skill sets other teams need on their list. Last year in a mega auction, there definitely has to be some instinct involved because things can happen pretty quickly and a player you may have missed on, you thought you may have got, youve got to move on to the next option really quickly and or vice versa. So I think this auction is probably a bit more structured and planned, said Klinger in a video posted on the franchises social media handles on Wednesday. He also said about wanting every member of the squad to be a genuine option for making it to the playing eleven. Probably the skill sets that we just need to fill up our squad to give us options for our starting 11. Now when we have a squad of anywhere between 15 and 18, we want every person in that squad to have a chance to play or to be able to pick them in our starting 11 if we need to. So thats probably our main criteria and theres some really good players in this auction. Some players who are released from other teams, some new players who may get their first shot. Scouts have done a great job over the last 12 months really to identify some players who potentially some other teams arent aware of. He added that the mood in the camp was relaxed ahead of the auction starting at 5:30pm. Everyones pretty relaxed in terms of the mood, only because I think were pretty comfortable with where were at the moment. I think, anything that we add to the squad is going to be high value but it also tops up the squad. So we got a good idea of whats available, what other teams are after. Theres always going to be some surprise on the day. The fifth season of the WPL will run from January 14 to February 7, 2027, with the venues yet to be known. Sanjay Adesara, Chief Business Officer of Adani Sportsline, which owns the franchise, said GG had only a limited shopping list due to retaining 15 players the most by any side ahead of Wednesdays mini auction. I think this season is a little bit relaxed for us. We are here to only get one overseas and two domestic players. The core of giants is intact and then we have very little to do in this mini auction. I think the only team which will have to worry about the buildups are not the Giants. We have few options and then the buildups I think our core has been retained. So that is something which is good for us. We will look out for a few backups in the squad. I think the auction is already successful, but I think having a sizeable backup option for any squad is something a depth is more or less successful. I think this season is a little bit relaxed for us. We are here to only get one overseas and two domestic players. The core of giants is intact and then we have very little to do in this mini auction. Also Read: Special Cricket Stories Article Source: IANS
Toronto Maple Leafs Star Auston Matthews Rewrites Franchise History With Latest Milestone
Auston Matthews reached 800 NHL career points in just 703 games, surpassing Maple Leafs legend Darryl Sittler to become the fastest in franchise history to reach the milestone during Torontos 5-2 loss to the Calgary Flames.
WPL 2027 Auction: RCB Looking To Plug Gaps In Bid For Title Defence, Says Rangarajan
Royal Challengers Bengaluru: Defending champions Royal Challengers Bengaluru (RCB) will use the WPL 2027 auction to fill the gaps in their squad as they try to become the first team to retain the title and be the tournaments three-time winners, said head coach Malolan Rangarajan. RCB will enter the auction with Rs 1.15 crore in their purse and have to fill five slots. You look at what you did well in the league last year, you try to understand how the league has evolved over the last year and you find gaps within your team and you are constantly looking to improve. But the work started a while back and its not now, the work continues. The WPL is coming in January and all we are looking to do now is how we can improve our squad and give us the best chance to go and be the first team to win three championships and the first to be back-to-back (winners), said Rangarajan in a video posted on WPLs social media accounts on Wednesday. The coach added that the groundwork for the auction, starting at 5:30pm in Kochi, had been laid months in advance, with the franchises scouts and coaches getting to work immediately after the final ended in them winning WPL 2026 in Vadodara. RCB has two franchises, both in the IPL and WPL, so there is a lot of work that goes on. But we had our scouts and coaches - all of them started working with our players right after the WPL finals. So the work actually started right after the finals. RCBs bid will be strengthened by the return of star Australian all-rounder Ellyse Perry, who opted out of the previous season due to personal reasons. Perry is a very integral part of our team, she has contributed to RCB regardless of us winning or not. It will be a huge boost for her return to our team. Obviously, she strengthens; everybody knows what she does on the field, be it batting, bowling and fielding, so I dont have to go into detail about what an impact she can have for the squad, said Rangarajan. He also congratulated RCB captain Smriti Mandhana on her taking over as India's full-time captain. First of all, very well deserved for Smriti. I think she has been a very, very valuable servant to Indian cricket, and she really deserves it. Its a proud moment for RCB, absolutely, that we have one of our own leading the country. Obviously, she strengthens; everybody knows what she does on the field, be it batting, bowling and fielding, so I dont have to go into detail about what an impact she can have for the squad, said Rangarajan. Also Read: Special Cricket Stories Article Source: IANS
WPL 2027 auction: Who has the biggest purse? Team-wise slots, budgets and base prices
The Women's Premier League 2027 auction is scheduled for October 28 in Kochi with 146 cricketers available. Teams will compete to fill 27 squad vacancies as they prepare for the upcoming season. The player pool includes 119 Indian players and 27 international players from various nations. Franchise budgets vary significantly, impacting recruitment strategies and decisions.
WPL 2027 auction: From live streaming info, slots available to purse; all you need to know
The stage is set for the upcoming edition of the WPL (Womens Premier League) 2027 auction. The mini auction for the tournament is all set to be held on October 28th in Kochi, and all five franchises will look to put their best foot forward and bring home the best players ahead of the new season of the tournament, hoping to play some good cricket .
