Tech can't replace on-field decision-making; need to blend with old-school methods: Zaheer Khan
Digital Desk | New Delhi, Sep 25 (IANS) Asserting that modern cricket technology cannot substitute human presence of mind during high-pressure match situations, newly-appointed Chennai Super Kings (CSK) head coach Zaheer Khan said his coaching philosophy revolves around empowering players and balancing data with old-school, on-field adaptability. On Monday, five-time Indian Premier League (IPL) champions CSK announced Zaheer as their new head coach after Stephen Fleming left the role in July. Being at CSK will also mark Zaheers first stint as head coach of a cricket team. A good listener, realistic, and very empowering (as a coach). I think it's about understanding the pressures and the new dynamics of T20. The game is evolving with every year passing by, and it's about staying ahead of the curve. So, when I look back, what CSK has achieved over the years is predominantly staying ahead of the curve, understanding and adapting to different situations, Zaheer said in a video posted on the franchises YouTube account on Friday. Before coming to CSK, Zaheer served as the mentor of Lucknow Super Giants in IPL 2025 and was with the Mumbai Indians from 2018 to 2022 as director of cricket and later became global head of development. That's something which was standing out right throughout the years. So, it's about building on that. It's about evolving with the changing times and creating that faith within the whole group to take things forward, added Zaheer, the 2011 ODI World Cup winner. Cautioning young players against relying excessively on analytics, Zaheer stated that real-time situational awareness remains the single most critical factor once a cricketer steps onto the field. I think when you talk about youngsters, when you're looking at cricket, it's about what you do on the field. It's about how quickly you understand and adapt. One thing which I've been very vocal about in modern-day cricket is the technology playing a big role, and it's taking away a whole lot from on-ground thinking. The adaptability, the situational awareness - all those kinds of aspects that you talk about and for youngsters, it's very important to keep up with that. So, for me, it's about encouraging conversations and learning through those conversations. It's something which is, in a way, very old-school thinking. But I think if you're able to balance what's happening currently with the decision-making on the field, it'll work as a good blend to achieve something special, he added. Elaborating further on the limitations of technology, Zaheer pointed out that no software can replicate common sense or guide a player through dynamic game shifts. It's very important that you use the technology, data, and analyse things. But when it comes to actually going out there on the field and doing it, you've got to have that presence of mind. You've got to be able to layer it with various aspects, be it the pressures that play on, be it the situation, and sometimes the common sense that you have to use. It's something that goes differently with every game. Every game is not going to be comparable to the previous one with regard to a particular situation. So, I think that's something tech will not be able to take you there. You don't yet have a tech who is moving with you as the game is moving along. So, in the field, it's you who is in charge, and it's you who is going to take that decision. So, you've got to be ready with that kind of approach and attitude, he asserted. Laying out his immediate roadmap for CSK in IPL 2025, Zaheer stressed that former captain MS Dhoni's guidance will remain pivotal while working alongside a young captain in Ruturaj Gaikwad and a settled squad. Well, I think, like I mentioned, conversations and understanding. It's a settled franchise. It's been years; a lot of processes are already in place. So, MS guidance, I think, is going to be very crucial. You look at the team management's vision. That is something which is going to be equally important in how you're setting the whole vision with regard to going forward from here. It's a new setup. So, there's going to be some learning. So, you talk about all those. The young captain, how he's going to shoulder the responsibility. How he's going to empower himself and the experience in the squad. How you can make them the leaders in their own way as a think tank to take things forward for this franchise, he concluded.
Drishyam 3: Ajay Devgn reveals why Kajol would ruin the film's plot
Ajay Devgn had a cheeky response when asked what Drishyam would have looked like if Kajol had been part of the franchise. Appearing on The Great Indian Kapil Show season 5 with the cast of Drishyam: The Conclusion, Ajay joked that the first film wouldnt have been made
A Privilege To Take Up CSK Head Coach Role, Big Shoes To Fill, Says Zaheer Khan
Chennai Super Kings: Newly appointed Chennai Super Kings (CSK) head coach Zaheer Khan said on Friday that being at the helm of the five-time Indian Premier League (IPL) champions is a privilege which comes with immense responsibility, adding that filling the shoes of outgoing coach Stephen Fleming will be an exciting yet challenging task for him. Zaheer, the former Indian left-arm fast bowler, was named as the new CSK head coach on Monday for IPL 2027. His immediate task will be to chalk out a strategy for the mini auction, to be held in Goa in December this year. The feeling is still sinking in, I would say. So much love and affection being shown towards me by the fans, by the well-wishers looking ahead to this special chapter in my cricketing career. It always feels very satisfying and a lot of pressure as well at the same time of responsibilities which I'll be carrying since you're talking about CSK, isn't it? Zaheer said on the franchise's official YouTube channel on Friday. It's a franchise which has the legacy, rich history of cricket and big shoes to fill in. So that's something which is going to be very challenging at the same time, exciting as well because it's just about taking the team to the level which everyone expects them to be and that's something which I'm looking forward to, the former India speedster added. Describing the appointment process, Zaheer, a member of the 2011 ODI World Cup-winning team, praised the franchise's clarity in the process of appointing him to the role and showing trust in his coaching abilities. The procedure was pretty simple, straightforward, I would say, in a typical CSK fashion. Obviously, MS has been a great force with CSK. It's been very critical in terms of understanding the direction the team should be going. The owners and the CEO, Rupa and Mr. Kasi, did have a word with me, and the conversation was very simple. We want you -- if you're available or not; the availability was checked. I said, yeah, I would love to be part of it. It would be a privilege and an honour. From then on, it was just about taking things forward and moving on with the formalities. It was as simple as that, and that gives me a lot of confidence stepping into this responsibility. It's the faith which has been shown in me and in my abilities. Obviously, the responsibilities are going to be greater. It's going to be a different challenge. But this faith is definitely something which I value a lot, and I'm looking forward to just taking things in my stride and doing my best, he added. Zaheer paid rich tributes to Fleming, under whom CSK won five titles, and his legendary partnership with MS Dhoni, which established the franchise as one of the most successful T20 franchises globally. When you talk about Fleming, it's about the consistency and the camaraderie which he's had with MS. It's something which has been very special. CSK has always been a very tough opponent whenever I've been facing them, and that's the legacy which I'm talking about -- the brand of cricket was established through years of hard work. It's about protecting that brand and taking things forward from here. So, as I mentioned, big shoes to fill. A lot of expectations that do bring a lot of pressure as well. It's going to be an exciting challenge which I'm looking forward to, he added. For Zaheer, returning to CSK feels like a homecoming, as he revealed about having spent a significant part of his formative cricket years in the city at the famous MRF Pace Foundation under Australian fast bowling legend Dennis Lillee. Well, we go a long way back; that pace foundation is something which is very dear to me. Played a huge role in my career and shaped me as a fast bowler. Spending time with Dennis Lillee there, I pretty much spent about 3 years. So, that time was something very special. The guest house was very nice. You had 10-12 fast bowlers slogging it out over the off-season for five-six months. On weekends, go for movies, make new friends -- that has been the connection. So, Chennai has always been very dear to me. Anna Nagar is where we used to stay. So, obviously, that area I'm very familiar with. Spent a lot of time there. Then, I went to the Pace Academy, which was in Egmore. The cricket ground was in a school facility. So, a lot of buzz in that area, and I did play a lot of league cricket there in Chennai. So, over the years, around that time, I was part of the MRF team. The Globe Trotters in the local league -- so, good and fond memories, lots of connections and friends there, he recalled. The guest house was very nice. You had 10-12 fast bowlers slogging it out over the off-season for five-six months. On weekends, go for movies, make new friends -- that has been the connection. So, Chennai has always been very dear to me. Anna Nagar is where we used to stay. So, obviously, that area I'm very familiar with. Spent a lot of time there. Then, I went to the Pace Academy, which was in Egmore. Also Read: Special Cricket Stories The team and the fans look like a big family, and the togetherness is very special, and that's what everyone experiences when they come to Chepauk and enjoy the game of cricket. So, looking forward to all the love and adulation which this team will get as we move along. Article Source: IANS
The Lust Stories franchise has evolved over the years from a collection of provocative stories about female desire into an anthology that explores intimacy, relationships and the complexities surrounding desire from different perspectives. With the third instalment now streaming, producer Ashi Dua has revealed that the latest edition contains subtle connections between its four stories that viewers may miss if they are not paying close attention. Speaking to Bollywood Hungama, Ashi explained that the filmmakers have introduced small elements through which characters from one story appear in another. According to the producer, these crossovers have been designed to blend naturally into the individual narratives rather than being presented as obvious connections. I don't want to really say much. I really hope everybody watches it, but we've tried to have these small little elements which you will notice in the four stories of our characters travelling a little bit in each other's stories very absolutely smoothly. You may miss it if you miss it by a minute or you may not, she said. Ashi added that the team would like to develop this idea further if they get the opportunity to make a fourth instalment. However, she acknowledged that creating a more interconnected anthology would require considerable coordination between the filmmakers. So, we've tried to do that, and hopefully if we get an opportunity to make the fourth one, we'll have it more intertwined with each other. It takes a lot because then all four directors have to write and shoot at the same time. Yeah. But we'll try. We'll try. We have to take it to the next level, she added. Ashi Dua on how Lust Stories changed perceptions around female desire During the conversation, Ashi also reflected on how the perception of the Lust Stories franchise has changed since the first instalment arrived in 2018. She recalled that casting the original film was not as straightforward as it may appear today, despite having filmmakers such as Zoya Akhtar, Karan Johar, Anurag Kashyap and Dibakar Banerjee attached to the project. According to Ashi, actors gradually became more comfortable with the franchise after understanding that its intention was not simply to provoke audiences or objectify women. Instead, the stories aimed to explore female desire and give the characters perspectives and motivations beyond their sexuality. I think when people and actors realize that we are what we are, we are not just doing this to titillate anybody. Everybody's presented really well. Every character has something that they're trying to say. It's not just putting women out there or objectifying them. That's really not what the filmmakers, us, or what the film is about. It's about speaking about the female desire which we've not been able to speak about for so many years, Ashi said. She recalled that casting the first Lust Stories was particularly challenging, even with its high-profile directors. In the first one it was very hard to cast, whether you believe it or not. I can imagine even though we had Zoya and Karan and Anurag and Dibakar, but it was hard to cast even that, she said. Ashi believes the response to the first instalment helped change the way actors viewed the project. She explained that performers became more comfortable with the material after seeing how the stories and characters were presented on screen. So I think after they saw that and they realized that this is doing things very differently is when now actors are more comfortable of course and also the comfort is between the director and the actor also. If the actor wants to work with that particular director and then the story where they feel like okay, we are comfortable doing this and we know we'll be shown in the right way is when they do it, she added. Lust Stories 3 continues the anthology format The third instalment follows the anthology format established by the first two editions, bringing together four filmmakers and separate stories that explore different dimensions of desire and relationships. The first Lust Stories, released in 2018, was directed by Anurag Kashyap, Dibakar Banerjee, Zoya Akhtar and Karan Johar. The film explored themes including female sexual pleasure, marital dissatisfaction and social expectations, and was nominated for an International Emmy Award. Lust Stories 2, released in 2023, was directed by Sujoy Ghosh, R. Balki, Konkona Sen Sharma and Amit Ravindernath Sharma. Its stories explored desire through themes such as age, social expectations, domestic relationships and long-term commitments. The third instalment features stories directed by Vikramaditya Motwane, Kiran Rao, Shakun Batra and Vishal Bhardwaj. The stories explore different forms of desire, including partner swapping, physical dependency within a failing relationship, transactional intimacy and repressed desire expressed through literature and fantasy. Also Read:Anirudh Surya on sharing screen space with Konkona Sen Sharma in Lust Stories 3: I was very drawn to her character
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Veteran actor Mushtaq Khan, known for his memorable supporting and comic roles in Hindi cinema, passed away on Thursday, September 24, at the age of 75 after battling cancer. The actor, who appeared in films including Welcome, Aashiqui, Hum Hain Rahi Pyar Ke, Hera Pheri and the Gadar franchise, was admitted to Mumbais Nanavati Hospital before his death. News of Mushtaq Khans demise prompted an outpouring of grief from the Hindi film industry. Sunny Deol, Rakul Preet Singh, Anupam Kher, Sanjay Mishra, Anees Bazmee and filmmaker Anil Sharma were among those who remembered the actor and offered condolences to his family. Celebs Remember Mushtaq Khan Sunny Deol, who worked with Mushtaq Khan in the Gadar franchise, shared a tribute on social media. Remembering his co-star as both an actor and a person, Sunny wrote, Sad to hear about Mushtaq Khan. He was a nice human being and a fine actor. Have fond memories of him. My condolences to his family. May they find strength in this difficult hour. Mushtaq Khan played Gul Khan in Gadar: Ek Prem Katha and reprised the role in Gadar 2. His long career also included appearances in films such as Aashiqui, Hum Hain Rahi Pyar Ke, Hera Pheri and Welcome. Rakul Preet Singh also remembered Mushtaq Khan, highlighting his warmth and versatility. She wrote, Mushtaq Khan sir. A versatile actor, a beloved soul. Your warmth, humour and presence will be deeply missed. Gone too soon. Sanjay Mishra also shared an emotional tribute to the late actor. In his message, he recalled the guidance he had received from Mushtaq and described the bond they shared. Mishra wrote, Mushtaq Bhai, we have always held your finger and learnt so much from you. And today, Mohsin's father has left us. Let us meet again in that world, where may you remain peaceful and happy. @mushtaqkhanaactor Anupam Kher shared a video on Instagram after receiving the news of Mushtaq Khans death in Atlanta. He reflected on the films they had worked on together and recalled the time they spent with each other over the years. Remembering his late colleague, Kher said that although they eventually moved ahead with their respective lives, he would always cherish the memories they created together. He also praised Mushtaqs temperament, recalling that he had never seen the actor get angry. View this post on Instagram A post shared by Anupam Kher (@anupampkher) Anees Bazmee, who directed Mushtaq Khan in Welcome, also expressed shock over his passing. The filmmaker shared a photograph of the actor and remembered him as his Balu, referring to Khans character in the 2007 comedy. Bazmee wrote, Shocked and speechless by the passing of Mushtaq Bhai (my balu). A truly remarkable artist and a beautiful soul. May Allah bless his soul and give strength to his family and loved ones. View this post on Instagram A post shared by Anees Bazmee (@aneesbazmee) Mushtaq Khans performance as Balu in Welcome remains among his best-known comic roles. His memorable dialogue about having a fake leg and being a hockey player became one of the films recognisable moments. Filmmaker Anil Sharma, who worked with Mushtaq Khan across multiple projects, remembered the many years and moments they had shared. How many moments we spent together, how many films we did together. uff, Mushtaq Bhai has left us so soon. Sad to hear about him. May God grant peace to his soul and give his family the strength to bear this immense loss, Sharma wrote. View this post on Instagram A post shared by Anil Sharma (@anilsharma_dir) With a career spanning decades, Mushtaq Khan became a familiar face in Hindi cinema through a wide range of supporting and comic roles. His work in films such as Aashiqui, Welcome and the Gadar franchise ensured that many of his performances remained closely associated with some of Hindi cinemas popular films. Also Read:EXCLUSIVE: Mushtaq Khan recalls how Salim Khan helped him get his break in Bollywood; opens up about his first meeting with hot director Mahesh Bhatt
The success and recognition of Kalki 2898 AD continues to add to the anticipation surrounding its much-awaited sequel, with director Nag Ashwin reflecting on the journey of creating the ambitious sci-fi epic and the trust placed in his vision by leading star Prabhas. The film recently added another major milestone to its remarkable journey, winning two National Awards for Best Popular Film Providing Wholesome Entertainment and Best Special Effects at the 72nd National Film Awards ceremony held in Gujarat on September 22. Speaking about the trust and support he received from Prabhas while bringing the ambitious world of Kalki 2898 AD to life, Nag Ashwin shared, It is a blessing to have a star like him trust your vision. Prabhas presence and conviction have been central to the films larger-than-life storytelling, with the actor headlining a cinematic universe that brought together an unprecedented scale, visual spectacle and a futuristic interpretation of Indian mythology. Reflecting on the challenges ahead as the team works on Part 2, Ashwin recently told The Hollywood Reporter India, There were a lot of challenges in Part 1, especially because it was the first time we were attempting something on this scale and in this space. There will be bigger challenges in Part 2, because now it is the second time and the expectations are even higher. So, in many ways, the journey continues to come with new challenges. The director also assured audiences that the sequel will deliver on the promise established by the first chapter, adding, The audiences can expect the epic they were promised. The recognition for the first film is very gratifying and gives us added energy as we continue working on the next chapter. It is encouraging to see the first film receive this kind of recognition after the journey the entire team has been through, and that naturally adds to the motivation as we work towards Part 2. With Kalki 2898 AD earning two National Awards and Part 2 promising to expand the world further, anticipation continues to build around Prabhas return to the ambitious franchise. The actors collaboration with Nag Ashwin remains at the heart of the next chapter as the team continues to take the story and its scale forward. Also Read: Kalki 2898 AD wins two National Awards; Vyjayanthi Movies celebrates Best Popular Film and Best Special Effects honours
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BJP Leaders Honor Pandit Deendayal Upadhyay on His 110th Birth Anniversary in Jharkhand
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Ranchi University UG Result 2026 Out - Check 3rd Semester Result Online @ ranchiuniversity.co.in
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Rest In Peace: Jeanie Buss Pays Tribute As Legendary Lakers Announcer Lawrence Tanter Dies At 76
Jeanie Buss led tributes after legendary Lakers announcer Lawrence Tanter died at 76. His voice shaped 43 seasons and became part of some of the franchises greatest moments.
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Deeply Saddened: Legendary Lakers Announcer Lawrence Tanter Dies At 76 Months After Retirement
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Mushtaq Khan, 'Welcome' and 'Gadar: Ek Prem Katha' actor, passes away at the age of 56
Mushtaq Khan, a celebrated Bollywood actor, sadly passed away on September 24 at Mumbai's Nanavati Hospital after a prolonged battle with cancer that began five years ago. His impressive legacy includes memorable performances in the 'Gadar' franchise and various television shows. Survived by his beloved wife and children, Khan leaves behind a rich artistic heritage that will be cherished by fans and colleagues alike.
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Pooran To Lead Royal Desert Champions In Abu Dhabi T10; Robin Named Team Director
Royal Desert Champions: Former West Indies power-hitting batter Nicholas Pooran has been appointed as the captain and Icon player of the newly formed franchise Royal Desert Champions for the upcoming edition of the Abu Dhabi T10 tournament. The tournament, which enters a new era under the stewardship of Abu Dhabi Cricket & Sports Hub (ADCSH), will take place from November 7 to 20 at the Zayed Cricket Stadium. Alongside Pooran, the new franchise has secured England opener Phil Salt and West Indies all-rounder Sherfane Rutherford as direct platinum picks ahead of the official player draft on September 30. Former India cricketer Robin Singh has been appointed as the Team Director. He comes into the franchise with extensive coaching experience, including a long stint with IPL franchise Mumbai Indians and past title-winning runs in T10 and ILT20 competitions, and will oversee the team's sporting operations. Having been closely associated with the Abu Dhabi tournament format over the years, I am delighted to continue my journey with the Royal Desert Champions. I look forward to building around our strong core a quality and competitive team capable of making an immediate impact in the Abu Dhabi T10, he said. Detailing the vision behind the new team, team owner and UAE-based fintech entrepreneur Amit Narang said, Royal Desert Champions is built on the belief that champions are revealed when conditions are toughest. The desert embodies the qualities we want this team to stand for - resilience, courage, adaptability, and ambition. As the first new founding team of this new Abu Dhabi T10 era, we have the opportunity to create something distinctive from the ground up - a team that the emirate can be proud of, a brand that connects with fans locally and globally, and a franchise with the ambition to build a lasting legacy. With Nicholas leading us, supported by outstanding players such as Phil and Sherfane, we have an exciting core around which to build. We are here to compete, to win and to create something that endures, Narang added. As the first new founding team of this new Abu Dhabi T10 era, we have the opportunity to create something distinctive from the ground up - a team that the emirate can be proud of, a brand that connects with fans locally and globally, and a franchise with the ambition to build a lasting legacy. Also Read: Special Cricket Stories The new team ownership has set out a clear direction for the team, and they are already assembling an impressive combination of leadership, experience, and international talent. With Robin guiding the sporting operation and Nicholas, Phil and Sherfane providing such a solid early foundation on the field, it will be exciting to see how the Royal Desert Champions take shape ahead of November, he added. Article Source: IANS
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Mumbai Cricket Association awards Navi Mumbai T20 franchise for Rs 106.88 crore
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Mumbai Indians on Thursday appointed Luke Williams as their head coach after parting ways with Lisa Keightley ahead of the Women's Premier League 2027. Keightley has decided to move on from the role of MI head coach after being appointed for the position in September 2025, the franchise said. Mumbai Indians have announced that Lisa Keightley has decided to move on from her role as head coach of Mumbai Indians, with Luke Williams appointed as her successor ahead of the 2027 Women's Premier League season, the franchise said in a statement. With the former Australian batter Keightley as their head coach, the two-time winners Mumbai Indians had finished fourth in the five-team tournament for their worst performance in four seasons of the tournament. Mumbai Indians had won the WPL in 2023 and 2025 while finishing in the Eliminator in 2024. We have a great opportunity to build something together, play an exciting brand of cricket and compete for success, said Williams. Williams had
T20 Mumbai League: Aspect Sports wins ninth franchise for Rs 106.88 crore
The Navi Mumbai franchise rights run for six years, with a first-season fee of Rs 12.21 crore; the MCA says the new team will widen the league's reach and create opportunities for local players
British fish and chips brand Harry Ramsden
Harry Ramsdens has signed a master franchise agreement with Franchise India Ventures to expand across India. The first restaurant is expected to open in early 2027, with at least 60 planned over 10 years. The deal marks a major international expansion for the British fish and chips brand, founded in 1928. One of Britain's most recognisable food traditions is heading to India. Harry Ramsdens, the British restaurant brand known for its traditional fish and chips , has signed a master franchise agreement with Franchise India Ventures to launch and expand across the Indian market. The partnership will see at least 60 Harry Ramsdens restaurants planned across India over the next 10 years, with the first expected to open in early 2027. Founded in 1928, Harry Ramsdens has spent almost a century building its reputation around fish and chips, a dish closely associated with British food culture. The India expansion will be led by Franchise India Ventures, which will use its knowledge of the country's restaurant and franchise market to develop the brand. For Harry Ramsdens, the deal represents a significant step in its international expansion strategy, with the company choosing to work with an established local operator rather than build its Indian network alone. From British favourite to Indian market The challenge will be taking a food concept strongly associated with Britain and introducing it to one of the world's largest and fastest-growing consumer markets. Harry Ramsdens said the partnership is designed to combine its brand heritage and restaurant expertise with Franchise India Ventures' understanding of local consumers and the Indian franchise sector. James Fleming, CEO of Harry Ramsdens, said India represented an incredibly exciting market for the business. With a commitment to open at least 60 restaurants over the next decade, this is a substantial long-term partnership and one that demonstrates the international potential of the Harry Ramsdens brand, he said. The company has not yet disclosed the locations of the first Indian restaurants or details of how its menu will be adapted for local customers. The agreement comes as established British food and restaurant brands continue to look overseas for growth, particularly through franchise partnerships that allow them to expand without having to build and operate every location themselves. For Harry Ramsdens, the Indian rollout will put a distinctly British dish in front of a new audience, almost 100 years after the brand first began serving fish and chips in the UK.
MCA awards Navi Mumbai franchise to Aspect Sports for Rs 106.88 crore
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Lawrence Tanter, known as the Voice of the Lakers, passed away at the age of 76. He served as the public address announcer for the Lakers for 43 years, creating memorable game experiences. Tanter had a significant impact on the franchise and was recognized as a cherished member. His family background remains largely private, with limited information available. Following his retirement, he served as a special adviser to the Lakers.
'CEC implementing Method Of Disenfranchising Indians (MODI)': Congress on SIR row
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The Mumbai Cricket Association has announced the expansion of the T20 Mumbai League to include a ninth franchise. The new team will represent the Navi Mumbai region and is operated by Aspects Sports. Franchise operating rights were sold for Rs 106.88 crores over six years, starting with Rs 12.21 crores for the first season.
Karan Tacker escapes to Maldives for a relaxing break before getting back to work
Digital Desk | Mumbai, Sep 24 (IANS) Actor Karan Tacker has taken some time off to enjoy a relaxing getaway in the picturesque Maldives before getting back in front of the cameras. The Tanvi the Great actor took to Instagram to share glimpses of his tropical escape, giving a peek into his time amid the serene surroundings of the island destination. Sharing pictures from his vacation, Karan captioned the post, A little getaway before the cameras roll, accompanied by hashtags including #ExperienceCentara and #CentaraThePlaceToBe. The actor appears to be making the most of his brief break, soaking in the tranquil setting before returning to his professional commitments. The first picture shows Karan Tacker striking a relaxed pose amid lush greenery, soaking in the tropical vibe of his getaway. In another picture, the actor is seen enjoying the picturesque beach views, with the vast blue sea and serene surroundings creating a perfect holiday backdrop. Meanwhile, on the work front, Karan Tacker began his acting journey with a brief role in the 2008 film Rab Ne Bana Di Jodi. He later made his mark on television with shows like Love Ne Mila Di Jodi and Rang Badalti Odhani. However, it was the popular daily soap Ek Hazaaron Mein Meri Behna Hai that emerged as his breakthrough project, earning him widespread recognition and a strong fan following. He later made his digital debut with Special Ops, where he essayed a key role. He returned to the franchise with Special Ops 1.5: The Himmat Story in 2021. The following year, he played IPS officer Amit Lodha in Khakee: The Bihar Chapter. His recent projects include the film Tanvi: The Great and the series Bhay: The Gaurav Tiwari Mystery. At the shows trailer launch, Karan spoke about the challenges of portraying the distinctive character. He shared that immersing himself in the role made it difficult to unwind after shooting. The preparation and intensity of the character resulted in several sleepless nights. Karan said, I dont want to sound very overindulgent as an actor, but for me, especially when it came to playing this part, I really had a challenge switching off from the heaviness of what you do on set, and you come back home. There have been so many times when Ive messaged my mom on my way back home from work, saying, Mom, can you just stay up for me?
Raj Thackeray demands resignation of CEC Gyanesh Kumar, scrapping EVMs
Digital Desk | Mumbai, Sep 24 (IANS) The Maharashtra Navnirman Sena (MNS) chief Raj Thackeray on Thursday launched a scathing attack on the Election Commission of India (ECI), asserting that recent media revelations have conclusively exposed the complete erosion of the poll body's constitutional autonomy. Citing an investigative media report, which revealed that Election Commissioners Sukhbir Singh Sandhu and Vivek Joshi recorded written dissent on at least 14 occasions over 10 months against steps taken by Chief Election Commissioner (CEC) Gyanesh Kumar, Thackeray stated that the findings validate what opposition parties in Maharashtra have been alleging all along. Thackeray, in his long post on X, alleged that the CEC did not act independently but was compelled to take arbitrary decisions to suit the ruling Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP). He argued that the concept of an autonomous poll panel now exists solely in textbooks, alleging that under the current political dispensation, autonomy is defined as complete subservience to the ruling party. The objections raised by Election Commissioners Sandhu and Joshi are too severe to be swept under the carpet. When two out of three commissioners are kept in the dark and sidelined, it proves that electoral rolls were manipulated at will, remarked Thackeray. Highlighting specific instances from the report, Thackeray questioned how key directives regarding voter list software, modification of statutory forms, and mass legal appeals -- such as the 1.61 million appeals filed in West Bengal -- could be issued without the approval of the full commission. He also cited technical glitches in Goa that led to the disenfranchisement of 97 verified voters as evidence of deliberate centralisation and systemic manipulation. Commending the two dissenting Election Commissioners for recording their objections on file, Thackeray urged all opposition parties across India to unite for a larger struggle. He declared that the battle against electoral irregularities must now expand into a nationwide movement demanding a return to paper ballots. The MNS Chief has demanded an immediate resignation of Chief Election Commissioner Gyanesh Kumar, a high-level independent probe into the alleged masterminds directing ECI decisions, resignation of the current government on grounds of compromised election integrity and scraping of the Electronic Voting Machines (EVMs) in favour of traditional paper ballots for all upcoming elections. The Chief Election Commissioner ought to resign, certainly, but the government that came to power by leveraging such a spineless Election Commission should also step down. The fact that there were no celebrations on the streets following the election of a government claiming a majority mandate speaks volumes. This is precisely what I have been saying all along. Therefore, everyone must realise the ultimate truth that only if the Election Commission becomes truly autonomous, as it ought to be, can the ruling dispensation be brought down to earth; otherwise, this battle will be endless, he commented. Responding to queries often posed by political commentators regarding high turnout at his rallies not translating into seats, Thackeray remarked that internal disclosures from within the ECI provide the definitive answer to who steals the votes and how. He concluded with a warning that unless the Election Commission's neutrality is restored, democratic contests in the country will remain fundamentally compromised.
This year, December is going to be a treat for moviegoers. Shraddha Kapoors much-awaited period drama, Eetha, will release on December 4. Two weeks later, December 18 will witness the epic clash between Avengers: Doomsday and Dune: Part Three. A week later, on December 24, Jumanji: Open World will clash with Shah Rukh Khans highly anticipated flick, King. While theres tremendous excitement among audiences to watch these four diverse films during the holiday season, theres also concern over how screen-sharing will play out. Many expect an intense tussle for screens, especially at single-screen cinemas. Bollywood Hungama exclusively spoke with Kamal Gianchandani, Chief Business Planning & Strategy at PVR INOX Limited and CEO of PVR INOX Pictures Limited, about this aspect. When asked whether he expects screen-sharing problems to arise, he replied, Its a good problem to have! We have a very experienced team who have been doing it for ages. Well handle it. Theres no problem with respect to capacities. In India, we have enough and more capacity to now handle 2 or 3 big releases in the same week. Well handle it easily. Two days from now, on Friday, September 25, Avengers Endgame: Encore will release and is expected to open with a bang. Kamal Gianchandani predicted, The advances are fantastic. Itll smash all re-release records without a doubt. Interestingly, the hype surrounding the re-release of Avengers Endgame: Encore also indicates the enormous anticipation for the next film in the franchise, Avengers: Doomsday, which is expected to put up a huge number on its opening day. Kamal Gianchandani agreed, Its a foregone conclusion. If Endgame is having this sort of a response, you can imagine the response that Doomsday will have. Itll be a monstrous December with Doomsday, Dune: Part Three, Jumanji: Open World and King. December is shaping up to be absolutely massive this year. Also Read: EXCLUSIVE: PVR INOXs Kamal Gianchandani on Hollywoods record-breaking India run: People are tired of consuming films at home; predicts Avengers Endgame: Encore will SMASH all re-release records; CONFIRMS India releases of Godzilla Minus Zero, Artificial
Zydus Lifesciences expects decent growth for five years as innovation matures: Sharvil Patel
Zydus Lifesciences is transitioning from a traditional pharmaceutical company to a more patient-driven organization. The company plans to focus on specialty medicines and biotechnology innovation. It aims to achieve double-digit revenue growth and improved profitability over the next five years. Zydus intends to enhance its oncology franchise and explore partnerships for novel biologics. The expected contributions from discovery-led products will materialize from 2030 onwards, strengthening its market position.
Travis Kelce vs. Patrick Mahomes: How their businesses compare beyond the NFL
In their post-NFL careers, Patrick Mahomes has turned his gaze toward sports team ownership, securing minority stakes in franchises like the Kansas City Royals and Kansas City Current. Meanwhile, Travis Kelce has carved out a niche in media, launching the successful podcast New Heights and diversifying into consumer brands. Their collaboration on ventures like 1587 Prime, a distinguished steakhouse, reflects their distinct yet effective approaches to achieving success beyond football.
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T20 Mumbai League Welcomes Ninth Franchise, Secures Six-Year Deal Worth
The T20 Mumbai League expands with the addition of a ninth franchise representing Navi Mumbai, enhancing opportunities for local talent. T20 Mumbai League Welcomes Ninth Franchise, Secures Six-Year Deal Worth 106.88 Crore
Assam sets 4,000 MBBS seat target by 2031, says CM Sarma
Digital Desk | Guwahati/Ranchi, Sep 23 (IANS) Assam is targeting a major expansion of medical education, with Chief Minister Himanta Biswa Sarma announcing that the state plans to increase the number of MBBS seats to 4,000 by 2031. Chief Minister Sarma made the announcement while addressing the inauguration of the 750-bed Baba Baidyanath Medical Trust Hospital in Jharkhand's Deoghar on Wednesday. Highlighting the expansion of medical education in Assam, the Chief Minister said the state now has 16 medical colleges and produces around 2,200 doctors annually. He added that the state government has a vision of establishing 32 more medical colleges in Assam, in addition to the AIIMS and ESIC Medical College already functioning in the state. Of these, 16 have already been established, CM Sarma said, while outlining the state government's long-term plan to expand medical education and increase the availability of trained doctors. He said that Assam's medical education infrastructure had remained limited for decades. The state's first medical college was established in the 1950s, followed by the second in the 1960s and the third in the 1970s. Despite Assam's population of around 3.5 crore, the state had only three medical colleges and produced around 300 doctors annually, resulting in a shortage of doctors in relation to healthcare requirements, CM Sarma added. The Chief Minister said the expansion in recent years has significantly increased the number of doctors being trained in the state. Assam now produces around 2,200 doctors every year, compared with around 350 earlier. He said that increasing the number of MBBS seats would be accompanied by measures to provide employment opportunities to the growing pool of doctors. Chief Minister Sarma pointed to the latest State Budget, which has announced the deployment of two doctors at each of Assam's 5,000 sub-health centres. He said the expansion of medical colleges and MBBS seats would help create a stronger medical education ecosystem while improving the availability of healthcare professionals across the state.
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Durban's Super Giants launch new look for next season
Digital Desk | Durban (South Africa), Sep 23 (IANS) SA20 franchise Durban's Super Giants (DSG) on Wednesday unveiled a new logo and a bold new identity, marking the beginning of a new chapter for the next edition of South Africa's domestic T20 franchise league. The evolution brings Durban's Super Giants closer to Lucknow Super Giants in the IPL and Manchester Super Giants in The Hundred, creating a stronger and more recognisable Super Giants identity across three of the world's leading cricket markets. At the base of the new look is a redesigned DSG logo and a striking red, blue and gold colour palette. Together, they represent a franchise that is ambitious about its future and proud of the city it calls home. Since its debut in the SA20, DSG has set out to build more than a competitive cricket team. It has sought to create a franchise that Durban can call its own, one that reflects the city's energy, diversity and passion for sport. The new identity builds on that ambition. Red represents the energy and passion of the team and its supporters. Blue brings strength and confidence, while gold represents ambition and the pursuit of excellence. The new look will be introduced across DSG's playing and training kits, Kingsmead, digital platforms, merchandise and fan experiences ahead of the new SA20 season. While the franchises will share a common visual language, each will remain firmly rooted in its own city, culture and supporters. For DSG, that means building a global brand with an unmistakably Durban heart. Dr Sanjiv Goenka, Chairman, RPSG Group, said: Durban is a city with extraordinary energy, warmth and sporting passion. We want Durban's Super Giants to reflect that spirit and to build something the city can truly be proud of. This new identity represents our ambition for DSG. We want to compete at the highest level, create memorable experiences for our supporters and build a franchise that becomes an enduring part of Durban. Shashwat Goenka, Vice Chairman, RP Sanjiv Goenka Group, said: We now have the Super Giants represented in three great cricketing cities across three countries. There is a real opportunity to build a strong global sporting brand while ensuring that each team remains deeply connected to its home. For DSG, that balance is important. Our identity may be new and our ambition global, but our heart will always be Durban. Durban's Super Giants have established itself as a major presence in the SA20, reaching the final in Season 2 and building a passionate following at its home, Kingsmead.
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Rs 106.88 Crore For One Team: India's Major T20 League Welcomes Ninth Franchise
The Mumbai Cricket Association (MCA) on Wednesday expanded its flagship T20 Mumbai League for its upcoming season by adding a ninth franchise.
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MCA Expands T20 Mumbai League With Ninth Franchise For 106.88 Cr
T20 Mumbai League Governing Council: The Mumbai Cricket Association (MCA) on Wednesday expanded its flagship T20 Mumbai League for its upcoming season by adding a ninth franchise, which will represent the Navi Mumbai region. The franchise operating rights have been awarded to Aspects Sports for 106.88 crore over six years, with 12.21 crore for its first season, marking a significant step in the leagues expansion and long-term growth. The addition of the Navi Mumbai franchise will further widen the leagues footprint, bringing more players from the region into the competitive ecosystem while giving emerging talent greater visibility and a platform to showcase their skills at a high level. Commenting on the announcement, Ajinkya Naik, President, Mumbai Cricket Association, said, The expansion of the T20 Mumbai League to Navi Mumbai is a significant milestone in our vision to take the game closer to every corner of the Mumbai cricketing ecosystem. The addition of a ninth franchise will not only broaden the leagues reach but also create greater opportunities for emerging cricketers to showcase their talent on a competitive platform. We are delighted to welcome Aspects Sports and look forward to working together to further strengthen the league and nurture the next generation of cricketing talent. Rajdip Gupta, Chairman, T20 Mumbai League Governing Council, said, The addition of a ninth franchise marks an important new chapter in the evolution of the T20 Mumbai League. As we look ahead, expanding our franchise base will enable the league to build a stronger and more sustainable ecosystem, while creating more opportunities for players to grow. It will also allow the league to create greater value for our stakeholders and deepen its engagement with audiences across the region. The entry of Aspects Sports and the expansion into Navi Mumbai further strengthens our foundation as we look to build the league into a larger and enduring sporting property, he added. Rajdip Gupta, Chairman, T20 Mumbai League Governing Council, said, The addition of a ninth franchise marks an important new chapter in the evolution of the T20 Mumbai League. As we look ahead, expanding our franchise base will enable the league to build a stronger and more sustainable ecosystem, while creating more opportunities for players to grow. Also Read: Special Cricket Stories With the addition of the ninth franchise, the T20 Mumbai League will continue to expand its reach while providing a stronger platform for emerging cricketing talent across Mumbai and its surrounding regions. Article Source: IANS
Mumbai Cricket Association Adds Ninth Franchise to T20 League for 106.88 Crore
With the addition of the ninth franchise, the T20 Mumbai League will continue to expand its reach while providing a stronger platform for emerging cricketing talent across Mumbai and its surrounding regions.
Jerry Jones Doubts Roger Goodell's Vision Of Europe-Based NFL Teams. Explains
Jerry Jones publicly pushed back on NFL Commissioner Roger Goodell's vision of placing expansion teams in Europe, saying on a Dallas radio station that adding a new franchise overseas is pretty far in the future.
T20 Mumbai League | Aspect Sports gets operating rights of new Navi Mumbai franchise
The addition of the ninth franchise is expected to expand the leagues footprint beyond its traditional Mumbai base and provide cricketers from the region with a pathway into the competition
Chandan Healthcare Scales Franchise Network to 500+ Franchises; Targets 1,000 Franchises by FY27-End
Lucknow (Uttar Pradesh) [India], September 23: Chandan Healthcare Limited (NSE CHANDAN), an integrated diagnostics company offering pathology and radiology services, has expanded its diagnostic franchise network to 568
'No Dupes Were Used': Mohitt Maalik On Doing His Own Stunts In Mirzapur
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SIR and the dissent debate: A Constitutional process, not an institutional breakdown
Digital Desk | New Delhi, Sep 23 (IANS) The Election Commission of India (ECI) has rejected the suggestion that differences among its three members amount to an institutional upture, saying internal objections and written notes are an established part of the functioning of a multi-member constitutional body and do not, by themselves, establish illegality or dysfunction. The response followed The Indian Express report of September 23 that Election Commissioners Sukhbir Singh Sandhu and Vivek Joshi had raised 14 formal objections over 10 months on decisions of the Commission, including issues linked to the Special Intensive Revision (SIR) of electoral rolls. While the objections are on record, the ECI has said that the report does not adequately explain the legal framework, safeguards and judicial scrutiny surrounding SIR. The ECI has functioned as a multi-member body since 1993, with differences resolved through majority decisions as provided by law. During a nationwide exercise involving crores of voters, 14 objections over 10 months cannot by themselves establish an institutional crisis, analysts say. The Commission has witnessed sharper disagreements in the past also. In 2009, Chief election Commissioner (CEC) N. Gopalaswami recommended the removal of Election Commissioner Navin Chawla over alleged partisan conduct; the government rejected the recommendation and Chawla later became CEC, experts said. Between 1993 and 1995, CEC T.N. Seshan even challenged the creation of the multi-member Commission in court, leading to an open legal battle with Commissioners M.S. Gill and G.V.G. Krishnamurthy, they noted. Gill later joined the Congress and became a Union Cabinet Minister after his tenure, they said. In a press note issued on Wednesday, the ECI said internal notes and checks are routine mechanisms intended to ensure transparency and legal compliance. It added that all official decisions carry legal sanction under the 2023 law governing the Commission's conduct of business and that every officer can offer suggestions for electoral reforms. The Commission said around 40 new initiatives introduced in the past year were unanimously approved by the full Commission and that elections were successfully conducted in Bihar, Kerala, Tamil Nadu, Puducherry, Assam and West Bengal. It also said ECINet and other digital platforms have strict data-security, IT audit and access-control mechanisms. On Form 6, the ECI disputed the suggestion that the statutory voter-registration form was illegally altered. It said its May 2026 SIR order had already provided for a separate Declaration Form to accompany Form 6, containing questions on whether a voter or relative appeared in the previous SIR roll. Legal observers said that changing a statutory form and adding a linked declaration are distinct legal actions. Concerns over centralization of electoral data also remain a matter of scrutiny rather than established wrongdoing, analysts said. The Commissioners sought an audit of database access, but seeking an audit is not evidence of tampering. Electoral Registration Officers (EROs) continue to decide inclusion and exclusion of names, while the ECI has reiterated that ECINet operates with security and audit controls. The reported figure of 13 crore deletions has also been described as misleading by the ECI. The figure relates to names not carried forward into the draft roll, not final deletions. SIR provides for claims, objections, hearings and a final roll. Reasons such as Absent, Shifted, Death and Duplicate are listed so genuine voters can seek correction. The report raises a fair question on who filed these appeals, but it does not establish that the ECI itself filed them. Implying that it did, is a leap the evidence does not support, observers said. More than 1.26 lakh appeals have been resolved and 1.14 lakh voters restored, the Commission said. In Goa, 97 voters were found eligible after hearings, but software lacked a facility to reverse earlier deletions. The Chief Electoral Officer wrote eight times seeking a solution before the final-roll deadline. Observers said this points to a technical shortcoming requiring correction, not proof of an intent to disenfranchise voters. The legal backdrop is the Supreme Court's May 27, 2026, judgment which upheld the ECI's power to conduct SIR under Article 324 of the Constitution read with Section 21(3) of the Representation of the People Act, 1950. The apex court examined the procedure and did not find the exercise disproportionate or contrary to law. The Supreme Court's judgment also recognised the Commission's responsibility to maintain accurate electoral rolls. Analysts also noted that SIR is not a first-time exercise. India has conducted 10 such revisions since Independence, eight under Congress-led governments. SIR also incorporates multiple safeguards -- Booth Level Officers, supervisors, Assistant EROs, EROs, draft publication, claims and objections, hearings and final-roll publication -- besides monitoring by political parties through Booth Level Agents, experts said. Analysts said the documented disagreements merit scrutiny, particularly on transparency and decision-making, but stressed that internal dissent and institutional wrongdoing are separate questions. The ECI's position is that a multi-member body debating and recording objections, while ultimately taking decisions through the prescribed process, is evidence of institutional checks rather than necessarily a crisis, an analyst noted.
DDCA Director Vikas Katyal Appointed Team India Manager For West Indies Series
District Cricket Association: Delhi & District Cricket Association (DDCA) Director Vikas Katyal has been appointed as the manager of the Indian cricket team for the upcoming home series against the West Indies, the state association announced on Wednesday. India and West Indies will face each other in three ODIs and five T20Is, with the series beginning on September 27. The ODI series will open in Thiruvananthapuram on September 27 before moving to Guwahati and New Chandigarh. The five-match T20I series will then be played in Lucknow, Ranchi, Indore, Hyderabad and Bengaluru. Shubman Gill will lead India in the ODI series, with senior batters Rohit Sharma and Virat Kohli also part of the squad. Shreyas Iyer will captain the T20I side, which includes a mix of experienced campaigners and emerging talent. Abhishek Sharma, Vaibhav Sooryavanshi, Ishan Kishan, Sanju Samson and Tilak Varma are among the players named in the squad. The DDCA congratulated Katyal on his appointment and described it as a moment of pride for the association and the wider Delhi cricket fraternity. This is a proud occasion for the entire DDCA fraternity, as one of its directors has been entrusted with the responsibility of managing the Indian cricket team. DDCA congratulates Katyal on this prestigious appointment and wishes him and Team India every success for the West Indies series to be played in India, the DDCA said in a statement. The appointment comes ahead of a series in which India will look to maintain its strong record against the West Indies. In ODIs, India have won 67 of the 142 matches between the two teams, while West Indies have 63 victories. Two matches have ended in ties, and four produced no result. This is a proud occasion for the entire DDCA fraternity, as one of its directors has been entrusted with the responsibility of managing the Indian cricket team. DDCA congratulates Katyal on this prestigious appointment and wishes him and Team India every success for the West Indies series to be played in India, the DDCA said in a statement. Also Read: Special Cricket Stories The two teams last met in the T20 World Cup earlier this year, with India defeating the West Indies by five wickets at Eden Gardens on March 1. Article Source: IANS
Gyanesh Kumar must quit, reform ECI: CPI(M)
Digital Desk | Kolkata, Sep 23 (IANS) The politburo of the CPI(M) on Wednesday issued a statement claiming that following explosive revelations by a media house surrounding the special intensive revision (SIR) of electoral rolls, not just the exercise but the integrity of the Election Commission of India (ECI) had come under serious question. The statement further observed that the ECI needed reforms, considering the current Chief Election Commissioner (CEC) Gyanesh Kumar had no moral right to continue in office. The disclosures have only strengthened suspicions and concerns that the CPI(M), other opposition parties and civil society organisations have all along raised since the SIR process was initiated. Reports indicate that two out of the three Election Commissioners recorded objections to several decisions relating to electoral-roll revision and the SIR process. According to the law, all three Election Commissioners are equal, and any difference should be settled by majority or unanimity. The CEC did not follow this rule but imposed his views without caring for the objections raised by his colleagues. Significantly, these differences concern fundamental questions about how voters are being added or removed from the rolls and how the SIR is being implemented, the statement read. Quoting the media report, the CPI(M) politburo claimed that the CEC had falsely maintained that the SIR process was transparent and decentralised. It is now clear that over the past few months the entire system has been centralised to the extent that it obscures who is actually taking decisions. The Supreme Court has also flagged the over-reliance on technology and the mechanical issuance of notices, the statement added. The CPI(M) leadership said the issues raised by the two Election Commissioners went beyond the SIR process, touching on institutional integrity, the democratic functioning of the ECI, transparency in the electoral process, over-centralisation, and the protection of universal adult franchise. The credibility of the Election Commission as an unbiased institution is at stake. People have lost confidence in a compromised Election Commission, for which CEC Gyanesh Kumar should be held accountable. He cannot continue in office any longer, the politburo stated. Besides demanding an immediate halt to the SIR process, the CPI(M) politburo said it should restore the integrity and democratic functioning of the ECI. Transparency in the appointment of Election Commissioners has to be ensured by scrapping the concerned legislation and enacting a new one by accepting the Supreme Court guidelines for a selection committee composed of the Prime Minister, Leader of the Opposition and Chief Justice of India, the statement read.
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Mental Toughness Key To Facing Australia's Experienced Bowling Attack, Says Gambhir
Star Sports Network: India head coach Gautam Gambhir believes mental toughness and the ability to absorb pressure will hold the key for India's young batting lineup when they go up against Australia's formidable bowling attack in the five-match Border-Gavaskar Trophy series, to be played from January 21 to March 3, 2027. Australia's marquee bowling group comprising Pat Cummins, Mitchell Starc, Josh Hazlewood, and Nathan Lyon will take a stern examination of the Indian batters when the games take place in Nagpur, Chennai, Guwahati, Ranchi and Ahmedabad. India last won the series at home in 2023 by 2-1. Looking forward to it. That is probably one thing which I'm absolutely looking forward to, because playing against Australia at home, and obviously it wasn't the best when we went to Australia. And for me, I think it is going to be India versus Australia, but before that, it is New Zealand. But the other challenge against Australia will be their experienced bowling attack. They've got the likes of obviously Starc, Nathan Lyon, Cummins, and Hazlewood. Obviously they've got so much experience of playing Test cricket against our young batting lineup. So it's going to be a great experience for these guys. More importantly, in Test cricket, it's about the skill, but it's about how mentally strong and how much pressure you can absorb. The more pressure you absorb, and the more pressure you embrace, it's going to give yourself the best chance, said Gambhir to JioStar ahead of the start of India's home season via three ODIs and five T20Is against the West Indies. Reflecting on India's preparation for the tough test at home, Gambhir pointed to their recent tour of Sri Lanka as proof that adequate lead time and targeted preparation for facing spinners will produce clear results on the field. But you could see that in Sri Lanka, we played two Test matches, and we got more than 400 runs in both the innings. And the reason was that we prepared extremely well. We went 10 days before the Test match, we could prepare playing spin, and then you could see the results as well. The thing is, I'm not going to give any excuses, but that's the reality. When we played the Test series against South Africa, we were coming after playing a T20 series from Australia. And we had two days before the first Test match. I remember coming from Brisbane, and then we reached Calcutta. We had two practice sessions, and we were straightaway into the Test match against South Africa. Against the West Indies, obviously we did manage to win that series, but we came after winning the Asia Cup, and we had two days of practice sessions in Ahmedabad, and we were right straight into the Test match and now you could see the difference. When we went to Sri Lanka early, you could see the way guys played spin, because Sri Lanka isn't easy conditions. In their own backyard, the weather, their spinners, their experienced spinners against our batting lineup. If you can get 400-plus in both the innings in both the Test matches, that just shows that there is a lot of improvement happening. So we will have to prepare well before New Zealand and before Australia, and obviously the focus is on spin, yes, that how well can we manage and how well can we negate spin, he explained. Gambhir also stated that young cricketers making their mark in the national setup must prioritize red-ball cricket above short-format monetary gains, citing Devdutt Padikkal and Manav Suthar as example. Extremely important, because both of them are young, both of them are hungry, both of them value Test cricket. It is so important for the next generation who's coming in to value Test cricket, because in today's day and age, with so much of focus and so much of limelight and so much of monetary gains that are associated with T20 cricket, how we can keep Test cricket divine, and above the other two formats is going to be key. Also, how much value a young generation or the new guys coming in gives that red-ball cricket is going to be key. That's why I said, a strong Test-cricketing nation is going to be a strong cricketing nation. When it comes to Manav and Dev, I think they value Test cricket, they're disciplined, hungry, and prepare really well. It is so important for the next generation who's coming in to value Test cricket, because in today's day and age, with so much of focus and so much of limelight and so much of monetary gains that are associated with T20 cricket, how we can keep Test cricket divine, and above the other two formats is going to be key. Also Read: Special Cricket Stories Watch the three-match ODI Series of the West Indies tour of India, from September 27 to October 3, 2 PM onwards, LIVE on JioHotstar and Star Sports Network Article Source: IANS
'I Leave Content And Happy,' Says Ingram On Retiring From All Forms Of Professional Cricket
Indian Premier League: After calling time on his two-decade playing career, former South Africa batter Colin Ingram said that he leaves the game content and happy and without any major regrets despite never getting to realize his dream of playing Test cricket for the Proteas. Ingram represented South Africa in 31 ODIs and nine T20Is between 2010 and 2013, but it was his 11-year stint with Glamorgan across all formats that made him a legendary name in the English county cricket circuit. My story has been about making the most of what opportunities I've had, and being grateful for what's come along. I've just taken the path that I could most of the time, and kept trying to reinvent myself, and in a way that's been really fulfilling, Ingram said to Cricinfo on Wednesday. While he enjoyed a prolific white-ball career, including stints in various franchise T20 leagues, Ingram admitted that missing out on a Test cap remained his only unfulfilled ambition, though he harbours no bitterness. I would've loved to have played Test cricket. I'm a lover of the game, and just to be part of that history and wear your national colours in the most traditional format, I would've loved that. But I certainly don't look back with regrets. I tried to make the most of myself and my talent and enjoy the challenge and the journey along the way. I leave the game content and happy. I'm not one of those grumpy senior players; I've loved everything it's brought. I've loved the fitness and the training I mean, the odd warm-up, maybe not so much, but it's been a great journey and I don't have a lot of regrets. I think that's quite satisfying, he added. Apart from his international appearances, Ingram played 15 matches in the Indian Premier League (IPL) across two seasons for Delhi Capitals, alongside prominent stints in the Big Bash League (BBL), Pakistan Super League (PSL), and the SA20. I leave the game content and happy. I'm not one of those grumpy senior players; I've loved everything it's brought. I've loved the fitness and the training I mean, the odd warm-up, maybe not so much, but it's been a great journey and I don't have a lot of regrets. I think that's quite satisfying, he added. Also Read: Special Cricket Stories Ingram, who has secured franchise coaching assignments for the upcoming winter alongside his role at Glamorgan, expressed a clear vision for his next chapter. I've bowled legspin, I've kept wicket, and I'm fascinated by the game. I don't want to limit myself by any means, but I'm still aware that I need to do my time and get into the trenches, and get some hard work done, he concluded. Article Source: IANS
Entire Nation Hopes That Legends Virat, Rohit Win 2027 ODI WC For India: Rinku Singh
ODI World Cup: Middle-order batter Rinku Singh has expressed hope that veteran stalwarts Virat Kohli and Rohit Sharma feature in the 2027 ODI World Cup and help India lift the coveted trophy. At the same time, Rinku mentioned that he wants to break the perception of being a single-format player by earning a Test cap. Rinku, who has played two ODIs and 48 T20Is so far, was a member of India's victorious 2026 T20 World Cup campaign on home soil earlier this year. They are legends, both Virat bhaiya and Rohit bhaiya. Not just me, but the entire nation hopes that they play in the World Cup and are part of the team that goes on to win it. It would be a huge moment for the whole country, as who knows, it could be their last World Cup. So, it would be huge if they can win it for India. It would be huge for them as well, because we havent won the World Cup in a long time. We last won it in 2011. So, we hope both of them are with the team, and that they lift that trophy, Rinku said to JioStar. While he gained instant global fame after hitting five consecutive sixes in an over during an IPL 2023 match for Kolkata Knight Riders against Gujarat Titans in Ahmedabad, Rinku stated that his primary career goal is to get more World Cup wins. Right now, people know me for hitting those five sixes in one over. Whats on my mind right now is that I want to win the World Cup for Team India, being part of the team, contributing with the bat and helping India win the World Cup. I want people to know me more for that, rather than just the five sixes. Having established himself as a reliable finisher in T20s, though he was omitted from Indias squads after the tour of Zimbabwe in July, Rinku rejected the tag of being purely a white-ball specialist and pointed to his solid record in domestic red-ball cricket. Theres a bit of that perception that Im just a one-format player. But you can look at my average in domestic cricket, whether its in one-dayers or four-day matches. I have a dream of playing Test cricket for India as well. So, people shouldnt view me as a single-format player. I can play all three formats, and I do play all three formats in domestic cricket. But for India, I play only one format at the moment. On his evolving leadership credentials, Rinku said hes still a work in progress, while continuing to observe experienced leaders in both domestic and franchise cricket. Im still growing as far as captaincy is concerned. I was captaining in the UP League, and I became champion with my team. Last season, I was the vice-captain in the IPL. So, Im learning the ropes of captaincy, a bit from Ajju bhai (Ajinkya Rahane) at KKR and from many others. I played a lot with Surya bhai, so I kept observing him in the Indian team for two years and watching how he leads. Im working on my leadership skills, and hopefully, something good is in store for me in captaincy. On his evolving leadership credentials, Rinku said hes still a work in progress, while continuing to observe experienced leaders in both domestic and franchise cricket. Im still growing as far as captaincy is concerned. I was captaining in the UP League, and I became champion with my team. Last season, I was the vice-captain in the IPL. Also Read: Special Cricket Stories Whenever I do something good, I think back to where I was and how far I have come from there. Its all Gods blessing. So, I keep looking back at how far I have come, he concluded. Article Source: IANS
Super League Kerala: Thiruvananthapuram Kombans is geared up for Season 3
The franchise features a bunch of new local talents in the new season of the football league
New Delhi, Sep 23: Expansive red flags raised by two Election Commissioners within the poll panel over the Special Intensive Revision of voters list triggered a massive political storm on Wednesday, with the Opposition accusing CEC Gyanesh Kumar of indulging in one-man autocracy and demanding his removal. Officials said Election Commissioners Sukhbir Singh Sandhu and Vivek Joshi had flagged multiple issues, including deletion of names, in various states during the voter roll cleanup but the poll body was unanimous in its decisions related to the pan-India Special Intensive Revision (SIR) of voters' list. The reactions poured in after a report in The Indian Express revealed that questions were raised on issues related to the SIR of electoral rolls within the three-member Election Commission (EC) itself, time and again by two of the three Election Commissioners. The national rollout of the SIR has been under the supervision of all three Commissioners. But Sandhu and Joshi have formally objected, on record, at least 14 times over the last 10 months -- four times on a single day -- to decisions taken and orders issued, they say, without their knowledge, the report in the English daily said. Congress general secretary in-charge communications Jairam Ramesh shared the screenshot of the media report on X. Ramesh said that on behalf of the party, his colleague Abhishek Singhvi will be speaking in detail to the media on the sensational revelations made in the leading national newspaper on the way he CEC has destroyed the credibility and integrity of the Election Commission of India. Congress general secretary in-charge organisation K C Venugopal said there is no doubt remaining that Kumar has no right to remain in office. How the hell can one man, acting on His Master's orders, strike off names at whim? How can he sideline fellow Constitutional officers to only take blatantly illegal steps that put our democracy in danger? he said. The right to vote is an essential Constitutional power given to every citizen, the fundamental bedrock of our democracy. If it is to be taken away, due process must be followed with utmost probity, he said. Today, when we are staring at crores of genuine voters being excluded and a similar number of bogus voters being added to the rolls, it is clear that Gyanesh Kumar was the Chief Architect of the nationwide 'Vote Chori' exercise, with the the Modi top brass pulling the strings, he alleged. We demand Gyanesh Kumar's immediate removal and a Supreme Court-monitored impartial investigation to expose the rot that has destroyed the ECI's credibility, Venugopal said. If Kumar remains in office, the people of India will come forward and make sure that our democracy is not destroyed by a mere bureaucrat, he added. Congress' media and publicity department head Pawan Khera lashed out at Kumar, saying he is planted and being protected by the BJP to hollow out the Election Commission of India from within. It was already known that things were not exactly well within the ECI. But just how messy, dysfunctional and, frankly, disturbing things had become is laid bare by this brilliant expose by @IndianExpress, he said on X. Kumar has to be the single most sold-out bureaucrat of the Modi era who has disenfranchised crores of Indians, and he must face the law, he alleged. Congress MP Manish Tewari also reacted to the media report, saying that if the ostensible facts as reported are correct then it seems to suggest that there is an invisible hand running the Election Commission. If rules were not allegedly followed and decisions were taken that were not unanimous or by majority then all the decisions of @ECISVEEP are per -se arbitrary and capricious if not completely illegal, Tewari said on X. This is perhaps a fit case for serious considering an impeachment proceeding but more importantly the fundamental question is as to how will the credibility of @ECISVEEP be ever resurrected, he said. Rajya Sabha MP Kapil Sibal demanded Kumar's suspension and filing of an FIR to probe who is behind his actions. Former chief election commissioner O P Rawat said changes to the statutory voter registration Form 6 are absolutely wrong and illegal, while describing revelations of differences within the Election Commission as very serious and unfortunate. CPI(M) MP John Brittas said this is no longer an Election Commission, it is a one-man autocracy under CEC Kumar. Two Election Commissioners have formally objected 14 times in 10 months. They branded the addition of new voters and mass deletion 'unauthorised and illegal'. They recorded objections to secret deletions, restorations, and form 6 changes that harass young first-time voters - all while being kept in the dark, he said. This is the open subversion of the EC and our democracy too, Brittas said. Parliament must immediately start the process for the removal of the CEC. We had in fact submitted a notice for removal on 24th April, 2026 as per the constitutional stipulations - solid grounds and around 70 members signing( 50 in the stipulated number), he said. The Constitution provides this power for precisely such moments of institutional capture and subversion, he said. The Supreme Court must annul the entire SIR process without delay. When two of the three Commissioners put on record that the exercise is illegal and destructive of the electoral roll's integrity, judicial silence becomes complicity, Brittas said. What Kumar is doing is the death knell of a democratic nation, he said. Remove the CEC. Strike down the SIR. Or accept that free and fair elections in India are already being buried, the CPI(M) MP said. Shiv Sena (UBT) MP Sanjay Raut also cited the media report, and said A-Gyanesh Kumar will go to jail! He will have to go! His masters will flee the country and run away! TMC Rajya Sabha leader Derek O'Brien said on X, Five months ago, 60+ Rajya Sabha MPs (50 needed) wrote to Chairman RS moving Motion to remove CEC Gyanesh Kumar. After big news break today that two Election Commissioners objected to many of CEC's actions, it's time to bring out the RS Motion today. Impeach CEC to save democracy.
Ex-Australia Pacer Ashley Noffke Appointed As Netherlands Men's Team Head Coach
KNCB Chief Executive Officer Huib: Former Australia fast bowler Ashley Noffke has been appointed as head coach of the Netherlands men's cricket team on an initial two-year deal running till 2028, said the Royal Dutch Cricket Association (KNCB). Noffke, 49, replaces Ryan Cook after the latter decided to step down from his role to spend more time with his family. Noffke, who till recently was assistant and bowling coach with the Pakistan mens team, including in the third Test at Edgbaston, takes charge with an immediate focus on steering the Dutch side through the qualification pathways for the 2027 ODI World Cup and the 2028 T20 World Cup. I'm looking forward to working with the Dutch men's team, which has become a fixture at the T20 World Cups. This is a talented, motivated group, and my goal is to help continue that development and move the programme forward. My approach starts with connection, before the tactic or the plan. I can't wait to get started, Noffke said in a statement on Wednesday. Noffke played one ODI and two T20Is for Australia and represented Queensland, Western Australia, four English county sides - Durham, Middlesex, Gloucestershire, and Worcestershire in first-class cricket. He also turned out for Royal Challengers Bengaluru (RCB) in the landmark opening match of the Indian Premier League (IPL) in 2008. Over a distinguished playing career, the former right-arm quick bagged 386 first-class wickets and scored 3,766 runs and became one of only three Australians to achieve the 500-run and 50-wicket double in a single domestic season. Following his transition to coaching, Noffke built a formidable reputation across major franchise and international setups. He led Brisbane Heat to a WBBL title, secured a WNCL trophy with Queensland Fire, and coached London Spirit to their inaugural title in The Hundred. He also worked as assistant coach and bowling coach of the UP Warriorz in the Women's Premier League (WPL) in India. After heading Otagos mens programme in New Zealand, Noffke served as assistant coach and bowling lead for the Pakistan men's team alongside Mike Hesson, where he guided the side to the 2026 T20 World Cup Super 8s and the 2025 Asia Cup final. Following his transition to coaching, Noffke built a formidable reputation across major franchise and international setups. He led Brisbane Heat to a WBBL title, secured a WNCL trophy with Queensland Fire, and coached London Spirit to their inaugural title in The Hundred. He also worked as assistant coach and bowling coach of the UP Warriorz in the Women's Premier League (WPL) in India. Also Read: Special Cricket Stories We thank Ryan Cook for the huge strides he made with the men's programme, technically, tactically and in terms of fitness. Noffke doesn't inherit talent and hope for the best. He builds the environment that talent needs to last, and we couldn't be more pleased to have him leading that work, he said. Article Source: IANS
Xbox has announced a new round of layoffs and widespread studio restructuring that will see the Halo franchise mode hands from Halo Studios to Activision. Xbox said 268 workers will be laid off across Halo Studios and other first-party studios.
Kalki 2898 AD sequel to go on floors in October, confirms director Nag Ashwin
Director Nag Ashwin has confirmed that the regular shoot of Kalki 2898 AD sequel will begin in October 2026. The filmmaker hopes to complete filming by mid-2027, with Prabhas, Amitabh Bachchan and Kamal Haasan returning to the sci-fi franchise
Big Bash League: New Zealand head coach Rob Walter praised white-ball skipper Mitchell Santner for placing national duty ahead of a lucrative Big Bash League (BBL) contract to remain available for the Black Caps' crucial Test assignments, adding that it perfectly reflects the veteran left-arm spin bowling all-rounders character. Obviously I was in touch with Mitch the whole way along the way. For me it's just a measure of the man, and that's not to judge any other person. That is Mitch it sums Mitch up. He's always been in a position to put the team first. I know what it means to him to captain his country and everything that goes along with that. But then also his desire to be part of the Test team, especially with what's in front of us. Whilst it may be surprising to some, certainly not to me. It's just the measure of the man, really, Walter told reporters on Wednesday. Addressing the broader trend of players like explosive opener Finn Allen opting for global T20 franchise contracts like the BBL, Walter expressed genuine satisfaction when his players maximise their earning potential, provided their passion for playing for New Zealand remains strong. At the end of the day, I'm chuffed when our players do well. I'm chuffed when our players are recognised. I think he's a man who's shown himself to be devastating when he gets going. He's won lots of games for New Zealand. So I wish the very best for all of our players and that they get what they deserve from an earning potential point of view. That's exactly the same for Finn. I think it's the reality of the world of cricket. There's more and more information that shows us that that's the way the game's moving and has been moving for a period of time. I think what excites me is the hunger and the want for all those guys to still play for New Zealand. Given the opportunity and without clashes, they still want to come back. They're still hungry to play and represent and they always do it well. As long as we can maintain that and keep our environment strong enough to pull our players back and that they always feel like it's home for them, that'll be the key for us, he explained. Turning his attention to the upcoming home series against India, which features 10 white-ball matches (five T20Is and five ODIs) packed into just 20 days starting on October 22, Walter singled out pace bowler workload management as his primary logistical challenge. I mean, obviously, workload is sort of front of mind given the summer that's in front of us. There is a lot of excitement because of the stable that we do have and quite different in many regards. So, it's exciting. I think the number one priority is to make sure that they're sort of all available, fit and firing. I mean, that is a bit romantic in this day and age with fast bowlers and cricket. But the guys are recovering well. They sort of had their ankle operations and had injuries along the way. So, when it comes to it and we find ourselves under pressure, we're just hopeful that we can lean on that battery of fast bowlers because I do believe sort of any four of them could turn out and provide a sort of competitive advantage. Outlining the squad strategy required to navigate the dense fixture list, Walter felt a rotation policy across the bowling unit will be vital. I suppose it's a balancing act, looking at putting a very competitive team out on the field for each game that we play, which I believe we'll do every time. I think we've proven that over the last 18 months, that whoever turns out can win a game against any opposition. But then also understanding the rigours of what's in front of us. We have to be realistic about 10 games of short-format cricket in 20 days, followed by six consecutive Tests - that's a good workload. Understanding that one of our competitive advantages is our fast bowlers and managing that group of players and also for everyone to understand that it's a collective effort. It's not going to come down to three guys who are going to win everything. The only way we'll get it done is as a strong collective unit. Despite the initial focus on white-ball cricket, Walter backed New Zealands 50-over core to excel against India in the upcoming three-match ODI leg. It's obviously in the back of my mind and part of our planning and playing against India is a nice opportunity for that squad to go out and play against. Again, as always, there's no bad side or downside to experience. But 50-over cricket I believe, is a real strong format of ours. I think we understand how to play that game pretty well, he added. Looking ahead to a challenging Test tour of Australia set to happen later, Walter pointed out that building momentum against India at home will set the right baseline for the tasks ahead. I think the planning forms part of a bigger picture really and trying to understand how those four Tests fit in with the Test summer that we have and obviously in the World Test Championship from a greater point of view. But it's obviously exciting to play India here first and then move on to Australia, where many cricketers are dreaming of that opportunity. So as a team, we don't want to overlook that and just really be excited by that opportunity as well. But we've certainly got plenty more work to do before we even get there. So I firmly believe if we do our first home summer well and start well against India, that'll prepare us well enough for Australia, he noted. On managing pace combinations and travel stress across multiple venues, Walter concluded by saying, Without delving too much into specifics, it's really understanding the load of the bowlers across the series with the summer that we've got in mind. Trying to minimise a little bit of travel where we can. But we've certainly got plenty more work to do before we even get there. So I firmly believe if we do our first home summer well and start well against India, that'll prepare us well enough for Australia, he noted. Also Read: Special Cricket Stories As I said before, we've got a cool mix there of bowlers and a nice opportunity to use them in a different way. It's going to be exciting. Hopefully none are affected and our planning can just roll out as expected. Article Source: IANS
