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Final phase of Telangana panchayat elections sees 85pc voter turn out
Hyderabad: More than 85 per cent of eligible voters exercised their franchise in the final phase of gram panchayat elections in Telangana on Wednesday, the SEC said. The elections were held peacefully, and counting of votes was underway, officials said. Of the 50,56,344 eligible voters, 43,37,024 cast their votes, recording a turnout of 85.77 per Get the latest updates in Hyderabad City News , Technology , Entertainment , Sports , Politics and Top Stories on WhatsApp & Telegram by subscribing to our channels. You can also download our app for Android and iOS .
IPL 2026 Mini Auction: How CSK, MI and KKR Have Reshaped Their Squads
On December 16, (Tuesday), Abu Dhabi hosted the Mini auction for IPL 2026, with 369 players competing for 77 blank slots in 10 franchises.
'Other franchises were sleeping': Ashwin shocked as MI snap up de Kock for Rs 1 cr
Mumbai Indians made a smart acquisition in the IPL 2026 mini auction. They secured Quinton de Kock for Rs 1 crore. This move adds firepower to their top order. Ravichandran Ashwin praised the strategic buy. Mumbai Indians look stronger after the auction. They also added other players to their lineup.
Bharatpur Beams With Joy And Pride As Home Boy Kartik Sharma Seals Record IPL 2026 Deal
District Cricket Association Secretary Shatrughan: Kartik Sharma made history in the Indian Premier League (IPL) 2026 auction on Tuesday after Chennai Super Kings (CSK) roped him in for Rs. 14.20 crore, making him the joint-costliest uncapped player, alongside Prashant Veer, acquired by the same franchise, in the tournaments history. As soon as Kartiks record bid concluded, celebrations erupted across the city as the news brought joy and pride. At Laxman Mandir Chauraha, District Cricket Association officials and cricket fans commemorated the historic event by bursting firecrackers and sharing sweets. Kartik and his father, Manoj Sharma, were also congratulated through a video call. District Cricket Association Secretary Shatrughan Tiwari told IANS, Bharatpurs Kartik Sharma has achieved something remarkable. His rise from poverty to now, bagging a cheque worth Rs. 14.20 crore, will motivate many talented players. He mentioned that Kartiks father sacrificed everything he could for his sons cricket career. Manoj, a medium pace bowler himself, couldnt build a cricketing career for himself as his injury had the final say. However, he hoped his son would pursue that dream and took every possible measure to ensure their financial instability did not affect his sons career. Kartik has also received the Mathura Das Mathur Award. His father, committed to his cricket dreams, sold his shops and borrowed several lakhs to support his kid. The pathway led to Kartik and his family shifting their base to Agra, as he joined the academy headed by Lokendra Singh Chahar, India cricketer Deepak Chahars father. Tiwari mentioned that Kartik had been involved with the District Cricket Association since he was a child. He performed exceptionally well at all levelsUnder-14, Under-16, Under-19, senior cricket, and the Ranji Trophy. His showing in the IPL trials also gained admiration from all. Kartik has also received the Mathura Das Mathur Award. His father, committed to his cricket dreams, sold his shops and borrowed several lakhs to support his kid. The pathway led to Kartik and his family shifting their base to Agra, as he joined the academy headed by Lokendra Singh Chahar, India cricketer Deepak Chahars father. Also Read: Live Cricket Score The young keeper-batter will now be seen donning the yellow jersey and representing five-time champions CSK at the IPL 2026, in a bid to build a bigger and better career for himself. Article Source: IANS
Elephant herd kills four in a day as villagers panic in Jharkhands Ramgarh
RANCHI: A herd of wild elephants went on a rampage in the Ghatto OP area of Jharkhands Ramgarh district, around 40 km from the state capital Ranchi, killing at least four people, including two women, within a few hours between Tuesday and Wednesday. The back-to-back attacks by the herd, which is said to comprise 42 elephants, triggered widespread panic among residents of several villages in the area. Those killed have been identified as Amit Rajwar (33), Amul Mahto (35), Parvati Devi (40) and Savitri Devi (45). The first incident took place around 4 pm on Tuesday near the Ara Number Four Feeder Breaker in West Bokaro. According to local accounts, a group of people from nearby areas had gathered to get a glimpse of the herd, which was resting by the roadside. Some of them moved closer to take selfies and photographs, during which one of the elephants attacked Amit Rajwar, killing him on the spot. Amit Rajwar was killed by an elephant which, according to eyewitnesses, repeatedly slammed him to the ground with its trunk. The incident triggered panic, leading to the blockage of the RamgarhKedla main road. Several drivers of heavy vehicles plying on the stretch reportedly abandoned their vehicles and fled to save their lives. Family members of the deceased said Amit Rajwar, who worked at Sarubera Colliery, had returned home to Ichakadih after duty and later went to the Ara Number Four Feeder Breaker to see the herd of elephants. Later in the night, the elephants again entered a residential area along Ara Kata Road Number 4. Hearing loud trumpet sounds, residents rushed out of their houses and began fleeing. During the chaos, two women, Parvati Devi and Savitri Devi, were trampled to death by the elephants. The rampage did not stop there. The herd also attacked a young man, Amul Mahto, who was riding a motorcycle, and crushed him to death. Forest Ranger Bateshwar Paswans confirmed that four people, including two women, died in the elephant attacks. Lakshmi, the daughter-in-law of Parvati Devi, said the family panicked after hearing the elephants. We got scared of the elephant trumpets and everyone started running towards the road. My mother-in-law was left behind, and the elephants trampled her to death, she said. Another local resident said the elephants knocked down their mud house and injured her parents. All the family members started running out through the back door after the elephants entered the village making loud noises. My parents stood near the gate to prevent the elephants from entering the house, but the elephants knocked down the mud house along with the gate, injuring my parents, said Pari, daughter of the injured couple. On Wednesday, enraged villagers blocked the R-4 road, alleging negligence on the part of the forest department. Despite all information about the movement of elephants, neither timely patrolling was done nor were villagers alerted, said one resident, requesting anonymity. In view of the seriousness of the situation, police personnel have been deployed in the area. According to officials, a herd of 42 elephants is currently active in the region, moving through the forests of Mandu, Ghatto and Kuju. The herd has reportedly split into three separate groups.
The first reactions from the international critics to Avatar 3 have not been really favourable with some calling the James Cameron film hree-hour hunk of nonsense, and others adding that Avatar: Fire and Ash is the worst in the epic sci-fi Avatar franchise.
'Thank you for giving me new life': Sarfaraz Khan shares emotional note
Chennai Super Kings secured Sarfaraz Khan at his base price of Rs 75 lakh, a move fueled by his recent explosive Syed Mushtaq Ali Trophy performance. The franchise also made significant investments in uncapped talents Kartik Sharma and Prashant Veer, alongside acquiring Matt Henry and Rahul Chahar. This strategic recruitment follows a major trade that saw Sanju Samson join CSK.
James Cameron makes surprising request to SS Rajamouli
Hollywood maestro James Cameron expressed his admiration for Indian director S.S. Rajamouli, even requesting to visit his film sets. Cameron's 'Avatar' franchise, lauded by Rajamouli as a benchmark for big-screen experiences, is set for a massive multi-language release in India. This exchange highlights a significant creative connection between Indian and Hollywood cinema.
One Keeper From Every Decade- Teen, 20s, 30s, 40s: Mukund Points Out Interesting CSK Fact
Chennai Super Kings: Former India cricketer Abhinav Mukund made an interesting observation in Chennai Super Kings (CSK) squad after the team formed a 25-member team after the Indian Premier League (IPL) auction, noting that the five-time champions have one wicketkeeper from every decade; teen, 20s, 30s, 40s. CSK have four wicketkeepers in their squad, 19-year-old Kartik Sharma, who is in his teens; Urvil Patel, in his 20s; Sanju Samson, in his 30s; and MS Dhoni, in his 40s. The Men in Yellow had a good outing at the auction, which took place at the Etihad Arena in Abu Dhabi, and invested heavily in youth as they aimed to build a futuristic team. Notable inclusions were youngsters Prashant Veer from Uttar Pradesh and Kartik Sharma of Rajasthan, as the duo fetched Rs. 14.20 crores each to become the joint-costliest uncapped players in the tournaments history. Mukund opined that CSK made a massive tectonic shift in their approach and dubbed the current squad a very different side. Analysing their auction strategy and outcome, Mukund said, I think CSK have put together a pretty solid side. Their retentions earlier were always based on what had worked for them in the past, but now everything is out of the window. For 2026, its almost like a 30 per cent investment in wicketkeepers. They now have one from every decade one in his teens, one in his 20s, one in his 30s and one in his 40s. On a serious note, this is a complete reset for CSK. Just imagine the number of meetings they must have had before arriving at these decisions, because this is a legacy franchise built on one system, one belief, and strong player loyalty. Mukund opined that CSK made a massive tectonic shift in their approach and dubbed the current squad a very different side. Analysing their auction strategy and outcome, Mukund said, I think CSK have put together a pretty solid side. Their retentions earlier were always based on what had worked for them in the past, but now everything is out of the window. For 2026, its almost like a 30 per cent investment in wicketkeepers. Also Read: Live Cricket Score CSK Squad for IPL 2026: Anshul Kamboj, Ayush Mhatre, Dewald Brevis, Gurjapneet Singh, Jamie Overton, Khaleel Ahmed, MS Dhoni, Mukesh Choudhary, Nathan Ellis, Nood Ahmad, Ramakrishna Ghosh, Ruturaj Gaikwad, Sanju Samson, Shivam Dube, Shreyas Gopal, Urvil Patel, Akeal Hosein, Prashant Veer, Kartik Sharma, Dasun Shanaka, Aman Khan, Sarfaraz Khan, Matt Henry, Rahul Chahar, Zak Foulkes Article Source: IANS
Dhoni's last dance? Ex-India batter reads the signs as CSK bet big on youth
Robin Uthappa predicts MS Dhoni's final IPL season will be in 2026. Chennai Super Kings' focus on young players signals Dhoni's move to a mentor role. The franchise is investing heavily in new talent. This strategy points to a succession plan for the team. Dhoni will likely transition from player to mentor.
IPL 2026: CSKs New Joinee Kartik Sharma extremely Excited To Play Alongside MS Dhoni
Syed Mushtaq Ali Trophy: Chennai Super Kings latest entrant Kartik Sharma said that he was overwhelmed by seeing the franchises entering into a bidding war at the recently concluded Indian Premier League (IPL) auction to rope him in and stated that he was extremely excited to play with veteran MS Dhoni. Indias Kartik and Prashant Veer became the joint-highest-priced uncapped players in IPL history as Chennai Super Kings invested heavily in young talent. CSK paid an astonishing Rs 14.20 crore each for both players, who started with a base price of Rs 30 lakh, highlighting the franchises strategic move towards nurturing emerging talent. Speaking to JioStar, CSKs new addition Kartik shared his thoughts on being roped in by the five-time champions, saying, First of all, a special thank you to all my family members & friends, without their support, I dont think I would have reached this stage. My entire family is very happy, everyone is celebrating and dancing. Im extremely excited to play alongside Mahendra Singh Dhoni and learn from him. When the bidding started, I was scared I might miss out. But as the bid kept going up, I started crying. Even after it ended, I couldnt stop. I was overwhelmed with emotion and happiness, I honestly dont know how to put it into words, he added. Kartik, recognised for his aggressive middle-order batting and reliable wicketkeeping, has scored 334 runs in 12 T20 matches at a strike rate of 164, smashing 28 sixes, and was among the top six-hitters in the Ranji Trophy. Im extremely excited to play alongside Mahendra Singh Dhoni and learn from him. When the bidding started, I was scared I might miss out. But as the bid kept going up, I started crying. Even after it ended, I couldnt stop. I was overwhelmed with emotion and happiness, I honestly dont know how to put it into words, he added. Also Read: Live Cricket Score Having trained with the CSK squad last season, Kartik has earned praise across the domestic circuit for his ability to excel against both spin and pace. Article Source: IANS
'Hamnet' child actor joins Scarlett Johansson in new 'Exorcist'
The iconic horror franchise, The Exorcist, is getting a fresh start with a new film directed by Mike Flanagan.
IPL Auction Analysis: Why franchise broke the bank for uncapped Indians
IPL Auction Analysis: Why franchise broke the bank for uncapped Indians
Two women among five trampled to death by wild elephants in Jharkhand
RAMGARH/RANCHI: Five people, including two women, were trampled to death by wild elephants in separate incidents in Jharkhand over the past 24 hours, officials said on Wednesday. In Ramgarh district, three people died at Sirka forest area, while a 36-year-old person was killed at Jidu village in Ranchi's Angara, on Tuesday night, they said. Some of the deceased are yet to be identified. Two quick response teams (QRTs) and forest guards are tracking the movement of elephant herds in the area, said Nitish Kumar, Divisional Forest Officer, Ramgarh. On Tuesday afternoon, Amit Kumar Rajwar (32), was trampled to death in Ramgarh when he approached a herd of eight wild elephants to capture a video and take selfies, Kumar said. As many as 42 jumbos, divided in herds, are roaming the forests along the border areas of Ramgarh and Bokaro districts, he said. Gautam Kumar Rajwar, officer-in-charge of Angara police station, said a person named Sanicharwa Munda died during the course of treatment, while two injured, including a woman, are being treated in hospital.
After Trading Jaddu, We Needed A No.7 Who Bats, Bowl & Field: CSK CEO On Prashant Veers Record Bid
Chennai Super Kings: Chennai Super Kings (CSK) CEO Kasi Viswanathan opened up about the team purchasing uncapped all-rounder Prashant Veer at the IPL mini-auction, stating that they were looking for a new No. 7 player after trading Ravindra Jadeja to Rajasthan Royals. The Uttar Pradesh all-rounders price increased 47.3 times his initial value after CSK resisted early interest from the Royals and a late, fierce competition from Sunrisers Hyderabad to acquire the 20-year-old left-arm spinner and middle-order batter for a record Rs. 14.20 crore. The franchises CEO said they had hoped to sign Cameron Green but had to withdraw when the bidding surpassed Rs. 25 crore, explaining they could not spend more than 50 percent of their purse on a single player as it might have affected their subsequent acquisitions. To summarise, it was very difficult in the first round. We were hoping to get Cameron Green. But if we gave more than 50% of our purse for him alone, it would have been tough to get the rest of the players, especially the youngsters. We had identified a lot of youngsters. We were afraid we wouldnt get them. That's why we could only go up to 25 crores for green. But, we were able to get the youngsters whom we wanted, he said in a video shared by the franchise. Shedding light on Veers acquisition, which made him the joint-costliest uncapped player to ever be sold at the IPL auction, Kasi said, Prashant Veer is a new player. You know that we traded Jaddu (Jadeja) with RR. So we needed a number 7 who can bat and who can bowl. And who is also a good fielder. Our talent scout team gave us a lot of feedback as to which of the youngsters were doing well. Prashant Veer was the number one player whom the talent scout team had identified. He also came for CSK trials when we had the trials at HPC, we got to know about his talent. We could spot out that he has something extra. (AR) Srikanth, (Sridharan) Sriram, all of them were there. They told us that Prashant Veer has a special talent. They told us to keep an eye on him. They told us that hed be a good pick. So, we thought he would be a good bet for us, he added. CSKs auction strategy saw a change this time, as the franchise bid for many youngsters, aiming to build a futuristic squad and learning from their mistakes of the past. Once dubbed Daddys Army, Kasi said that the team looked to identify youngsters and up-and-coming players to bolster the squads strength. In the 2018 auction during the lunch time, our boss Srinivasan Sir scolded us, Are you picking players? What are you doing? All the fans also started saying, Youve picked a team like some Daddys army. But we won the trophy, coming back after 2 years. From that time, you will see in IPL, there has been a change in the kind of cricket which is being played. Power cricket, which is coming. For that, we have to adapt. That adaptation will take some time. Last year, we brought in youngsters from mid-season. Ayush Mhatre, Urvil Patel, Dewald Brevis, all of them came into the team. We have traded in Sanju Samson. So, we have strengthened the batting. We are identifying some of the bowlers who will be good. Akeal Hossein is probably the best T20 powerplay bowler. Similarly, we have bowlers who can be really useful. We have got Jamie Overton, and now Matt Henry and Foulkes who are all very good with the new ball. So, I think we have fairly got a good side, he stated. Kasi assured the fans that theyll have fun watching CSKs games at their home ground, Chepauk, and said that skipper Ruturaj Gaikwad and veteran MS Dhoni will do a great job for the team. Similarly, we have bowlers who can be really useful. We have got Jamie Overton, and now Matt Henry and Foulkes who are all very good with the new ball. So, I think we have fairly got a good side, he stated. Also Read: Live Cricket Score Message to fans, as I always say, Thala and Rutu will do a great job for the team. Fans, this year you will really enjoy watching CSK at the M.A. Chidambaram Stadium. And hope we win the trophy, he concluded. Article Source: IANS
Hamnet child actor Jacobi Jupe joins new The Exorcist film: To star alongside Scarlett Johansson
The iconic 'The Exorcist' franchise is getting a fresh start with a new film helmed by director Mike Flanagan. Young actor Jacobi Jupe, known for 'Hamnet,' joins Scarlett Johansson in this bold reimagining. This installment will not be a sequel to the poorly received 'Exorcist: Believer,' promising a new take on possession themes.
Lost in time, Dracula returns to Kerala after half a century
KOCHI: After decades in the shadows, the Malayalam translation of Bram Stokers Dracula first published in 1975 will return to print in January 2026. For publisher Rayan Pushpanath, the rediscovery of the long-lost book felt less like routine archival work and more like cracking a cold case. Written by his grandfather, legendary Malayalam crime and horror writer Kottayam Pushpanath, the translation had virtually vanished from circulation. No major library had a copy. Collectors drew blanks. Even detailed bibliographies listed the book, but none could produce it. Yet this missing volume was no ordinary translation. It was the spark that opened the door to gothic horror for generations of Malayali readers and quietly reshaped popular fiction in the state. Printed in 1975, Dracula arrived in Kerala at a time when Malayalam popular literature was dominated by social novels, family sagas and romantic melodrama. For readers who had never encountered a full-fledged gothic horror novel, it was a revelation. Fear, mood and the supernatural suddenly became part of mainstream reading, recalls Rayan. Pushpanaths engagement with Dracula did not end with translation. The book became the foundation for what can now be described as the Malayalam Dracula universe. Over the years, he wrote nearly 10 interconnected novels, including Dracula Asiayil , Draculayude Makal , Dracula Unarunnu , Dracula Brazilil and Dracula Kotta . In these works, the vampire count was uprooted from Victorian England and placed in Indian and global settings, encountering local folklore, belief systems and anxieties. Long before people spoke about cinematic universes or franchise storytelling, my grandfather was doing it through novels, says Rayan. Holding the 1975 edition for first time was an emotional moment He took a Western myth and made it intimate, local and recognisably ours, says Rayan. In these stories, Dracula could walk through mist-covered hills reminiscent of Kerala, confront Eastern mysticism, or surface in unfamiliar geographies without losing his gothic core. Pushpanath did not merely adapt Stokers creation; he reimagined it, reclaiming the myth for a Malayalam-reading audience. Decades later, this literary experiment drew international attention. In 2025, British author Ann Morgan, known for A Year of Reading the World , highlighted Dracula Asiayil in her book Relearning to Read . She described it as a fascinating cultural phenomenon, noting how a Western character was reshaped through Indian emotional logic and narrative traditions. For Rayan, the recognition was affirming rather than surprising. For Kerala readers, Dracula became part of shared cultural memory. As familiar as popular fictional heroes, and as thrilling as stories told around a campfire, he says. Yet the absence of the original 1975 translation remained a troubling gap. It felt symbolic. As if the first chapter of a very large story had been torn out. The search for the book spanned seven years, taking him to libraries, ancestral homes, book fairs and private collections. The explanation he heard repeatedly was the same: the book had been borrowed endlessly, read until it fell apart, and never returned. It didnt disappear because people ignored it. It disappeared because people loved it, says Rayan. The breakthrough came in 2024 at a book fair in Kannur, when a collector casually confirmed he had a copy. Holding the fragile 1975 edition for the first time was an emotional moment. I wasnt just holding a book, Rayan recalls. I was holding a piece of my grandfathers imagination, travelling across generations. The rediscovery has now led to a carefully planned reprint, bringing the original translation back to readers after half a century.
From heartbreak to homecoming: Shaw, Sarfaraz revive IPL careers in auction twist
The IPL 2026 auction saw dramatic comebacks for Prithvi Shaw and Sarfaraz Khan, both initially unsold but later picked up by Delhi Capitals and Chennai Super Kings respectively. Shaw's emotional social media post was followed by his return to his former franchise, while Sarfaraz gets a chance to shine under MS Dhoni.
IPL 2026 Auction: First-time picks and uncapped players sold; check full list
The IPL 2026 mini-auction in Abu Dhabi saw franchises invest heavily in young, uncapped talent. Chennai Super Kings and Lucknow Super Giants were prominent in signing emerging players, aiming to build depth and secure future stars for the T20 arena. Several new faces earned lucrative contracts, marking their debut on the grand IPL stage.
Kashmirs Nabi creates history with Rs 8.40 cr IPL deal at Delhi Capitals
*Udhampurs Brijesh earns RR call-up Ranjit Thakur/Suhail Bhat JAMMU/SRINAGAR, Dec 16: Jammu and Kashmir cricket witnessed a historic moment at the Indian Premier League auction as two fast bowlers from the Union Territory earned contracts with IPL franchises, marking a major breakthrough for the regions growing talent pool and inspiring young cricketers across Jammu and Kashmir. Auqib Nabi Dar, a fast bowler from Sheeri village in North Kashmirs Baramulla district, created history today after being picked by Delhi Capitals for [] The post Kashmirs Nabi creates history with Rs 8.40 cr IPL deal at Delhi Capitals appeared first on Daily Excelsior .
IPL 2026 to be held from March 26 to May 31 Mumbai, Dec 16: The 2026 edition of the Indian Premier League (IPL) will be held from March 26 to May 31, the Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI) informed the franchises, a report claimed on Monday. The 19th edition of Indias domestic []
The IPL 2026 auction delivered a surprising contrast as capped stars like Devon Conway went unsold while several Rs 30 lakh base-price players landed multi-crore deals. Limited team purses, tactical needs, and the looming mega-auction reshaped franchise spending priorities.
Rainbow Six Mobile will finally be available in February after years of testing
The long-awaited Rainbow Six Mobile comes out on February 23 for iOS and Android devices. This is a global release and follows years of testing and some significant delays . This is basically a smartphone version of the popular tactical shooter Rainbow Six Siege . It was developed exclusively for mobile devices and features a trio of 5v5 multiplayer modes. There's a team deathmatch, of course, and a pair of bomb-defusing games that are riffs on a pre-existing mode from Siege. Rainbow Six Mobile offers access to a bunch of maps, including some that will be familiar to fans of the franchise. There are more than 20 operators to choose from and Ubisoft promises it'll be adding more content with each new season. The company is rolling the game out early in some parts of the world. It's already playable in Poland, France, Canada and parts of Latin America. Everyone else has to wait until February. This article originally appeared on Engadget at https://www.engadget.com/gaming/rainbow-six-mobile-will-finally-be-available-in-february-after-years-of-testing-174001081.html?src=rss
IPL 2026 Auction: Prithvi Shaw Makes Insta U-turn After Being Revived And Bought By Delhi Capitals
U19 Cricket World Cup: India batter Prithvi Shaw on Tuesday took a notable U-turn on social media as he posted a heartbreak emoticon on his Instagram story shortly after going unsold twice at the Indian Premier League (IPL) 2026 auction, before deleting the post as the Delhi Capitals bought his services in a late bid. After going unsold at the base price of Rs 75 lakh in the opening session, Shaws name appeared in the accelerated auction of unsold players. However, he once again received no bids during the day. Shaw then posted a story on his Instagram account, writing It's Ok, accompanied by a heartbreak emoji. But things took a surprising turn for him as, towards the end of the auction, his name was revived for a third time, this time by the Delhi Capitals, who picked him up. Shaw responded promptly, deleting his earlier post within six minutes and replacing it with another, a reshare of the franchises post that included a photo of Shaw taking a selfie with DC captain Axar Patel, welcoming him back to the fold. Back to my family, Prithvi Shaw titled this new post with a heart emoji, making a quick U-turn. In this latest Insta story, Prithvi Shaw, who scored the fastest double century in the Ranji Trophy in October this year, shared his surprise at returning to the franchise he played for from 2018 to 2024. The 26-year-old Prithvi Shaw has played five Test matches and six ODIs for India since making his debut against the West Indies in October 2018. His most recent ODI was against Sri Lanka on July 23, 2021. Back to my family, Prithvi Shaw titled this new post with a heart emoji, making a quick U-turn. In this latest Insta story, Prithvi Shaw, who scored the fastest double century in the Ranji Trophy in October this year, shared his surprise at returning to the franchise he played for from 2018 to 2024. Also Read: Live Cricket Score Shaw, who set the highest score by any batsman in any organised form of cricket since 1901, when he scored 546 in a Harris Shield elite division match, captained the Indian team that won the U19 Cricket World Cup in 2018. He also represented Northamptonshire in the English County Championship during the 2023-24 season. Article Source: IANS
IPL Auction 2026: Most expensive player for each team across all 10 Teams
The IPL Auction 2026 saw record-breaking buys, with Cameron Green becoming the most expensive overseas player at Rs 25.20 crore. Chennai Super Kings dominated the uncapped market, securing Prashant Veer and Kartik Sharma for Rs 14.20 crore each. Several franchises made significant investments in key players, setting the stage for an exciting season.
The IPL 2026 mini-auction delivered blockbuster deals and surprise picks. From Cameron Green's record-breaking move to uncapped Indian stars attracting massive bids, here is the complete team-wise list of players bought by all franchises at the IPL 2026 mini-auction.
Dead Island 3 is in development and will reportedly come out in 2028
The zombie-decapitating sim Dead Island 3 is still being developed, according to financial documents from Dambuster Studios that were published on X and reported on by Video Games Chronicle . These documents suggest a 2028 release date, so that's something to look forward to. Dambuster Studios' financial statements are out (as of March 2025) The company employed 194 employees Dead Island 3 is in development The current predicted release window for the project is Q1/2 2028 pic.twitter.com/FOHOitH3nD Timur222 (@bogorad222) December 16, 2025 The paperwork says the development is moving at pace and that parts of the game are now in early production. These parts reportedly include feature design, world design, narrative and character design. We already knew this game was in development, as Dambuster posted on Steam earlier this year that the outbreak is far from over. The idea of Dead Island 3 makes a whole lot of sense, given the success of the second one . The company has sold over 4 million copies of the game since 2023. It's also worth noting that a 2028 release date would put five years between the two sequels. That's a long time for something like Assassin's Creed, but nothing for the Dead Island franchise. Dead Island 2 was first announced in 2014 , so development took nearly a decade. This article originally appeared on Engadget at https://www.engadget.com/gaming/dead-island-3-is-in-development-and-will-reportedly-come-out-in-2028-162522680.html?src=rss
IPL auction 2026 RR: From Ravi Bishnoi to Sushant Mishra, check complete players list, final bids
Rajasthan Royals enter the auction with a focused strategy. They aim to secure an Indian spinner and bolster their pace attack. Key retentions and smart trades have provided a strong foundation. The franchise seeks to fill specific gaps rather than make major changes. Their top order appears settled, with batting buys likely for cover.
Lucknow Super Giants entered the IPL Auction 2026 with a significant purse. The franchise focused on rebuilding its squad after a seventh-place finish last season. LSG retained 19 players, including captain Rishabh Pant, and acquired new talent to strengthen their batting and bowling. The team aims for a system-driven approach to achieve success in the upcoming season.
Fallout Season 2 review: Viva New Vegas
The follow-up to a successful debut is often harder to make than the first, and that goes double when the inspiration for a show comes from the most beloved installment of the underlying franchise . That's precisely the challenge Fallout season 2 is facing as the TV series shifts its stage to the irradiated lights of New Vegas when the series returns on December 16 at 9PM ET/6PM PT on Prime Video . However, while other video game adaptations like The Last of Us suffered from a bit of a sophomore slump , Fallout continues to get more crass, vulgar and abrasive in the most entertaining ways. Editor's note: We were provided the first six of eight episodes of Fallout season 2 for this review, so if the ending of this season misses its landing, blame The Enclave. Season two picks up directly after the first as Lucy (played by Ella Purnelle) and The Ghoul (Walton Goggins) make their way across the wasteland in pursuit of Lucy's father. And right away, we're instantly reminded of the magnetic chemistry between our leading lady vault dweller and her endearing naivete and our post-apocalyptic cowboy afflicted with dark pragmatism from having simply lived through too much. This simple combo not only often provides the setup for Lucy's signature catchphrase which is both quaint and refreshing it also sets the stage for some interesting plot points. Just hearing The Ghoul say things like Do more drugs with Goggin's classic drawl and without a hint of irony is a real treat. There's never a dull moment when Lucy and The Ghoul are traveling together. Prime Video One of the potential pitfalls of a second season though, is an expanded storyline. That's because unlike the Fallout games where you get to steer the action, we're just here for the ride as we flip between Lucy's search for her father, the existential crises facing multiple vaults and an expanded role for Maximus (Aaron Moten) as he suddenly finds himself near the top of the Brotherhood of Steel's org chart. But somehow, the showrunners have managed to make each branching path just as engaging as the others. There were hints of his range in the first season, but Moises Arias shines as Lucy's brother Norm as the leader of a new crew (I'm trying to keep this review as spoiler-free as possible) while Annabel O'Hagan as Overseer Harper does a fantastic job of switching between being out of her depth and completely unhinged at a moment's notice. In season two, it feels like Aaron Moten's Maximus is so close to figuring out what kind of soldier he wants to be. Prime Video The one path that still feels like it hasn't fully hit its stride is Maximus', due in large part to the fact that the character's actions often feel like they are influenced more by circumstance than personal agency. In some ways, it's the continuation of someone defining their own morality, which rarely feels as convincing or driven as someone with a plan. But there's still intrigue there too. Meanwhile, for fans of the games, the number of easter eggs and callbacks is downright delightful. The set design and cinematography make the wasteland a character in its own right, even if the last thing I want to see is someone eat flea soup. We're also treated to an ever-growing zoography of nuclear critters such as rad scorpions, all sorts of mutants and more, along with appearances from iconic characters like everyone's favorite cowboy-coded security robot . And I appreciate how the show spends a little extra time to go over the myriad of factions (like The Legion and the NCR), which pays homage to the core series while functioning as an interesting side quest at the same time. With Overseer Harper at the helm, there's no telling what will happen to Vault 32. Prime Video With this much going on, it would be easy for a series to become overburdened. But the pacing isn't labored, because while the show doesn't actually get to New Vegas until episode four, the journey there was so entertaining that I didn't mind. Perhaps most importantly, even though it would be impossible to completely recreate New Vegas on TV (since you cant choose your own adventure here like you can in the game), it really feels like Fallout's showrunners have nailed the balance between respecting the source material and tweaking the story to fit a different medium. That's a big credit to the franchise, especially coming from a genre that often gets maligned for a lack of depth or nuance. But it's also a tribute to this series, which continues to be a prime example of how to make the jump from pixels to TV screens look gook. And after seeing The Last of Us stumble a bit during its second cour, I might even go so far as to say that Fallout is the best live-action video game crossover to date. This article originally appeared on Engadget at https://www.engadget.com/entertainment/tv-movies/fallout-season-2-review-viva-new-vegas-140000678.html?src=rss
'Playing at home again': Bishnoi reacts after RR seal Rs 7.2 crore deal
Ravi Bishnoi returns to Rajasthan Royals for Rs 7.2 crore, describing it as a homecoming. The leg-spinner, a native of Jodhpur, began his career as a net bowler with the franchise. His signing adds valuable experience and quality to the Royals' bowling attack, with a strong track record in domestic and IPL cricket.
IPL 2026 Auction: Playing For Rajasthan Royals Will Feel Like Home, Says Ravi Bishnoi
RR Lead Owner Manoj Badale: India leg-spinner Ravi Bishnoi said it felt like playing at home after being picked up by former champions Rajasthan Royals for Rs 7.2 crore at the ongoing Indian Premier League (IPL) 2026 mini-auction at the Etihad Arena in Abu Dhabi, with the franchise securing the spinner following competitive bidding. Hailing from Jodhpur, Bishnoi adds proven quality and energy to the Royals bowling attack. Speaking on his move to Rajasthan Royals, Ravi Bishnoi said, Playing for Rajasthan Royals will feel like playing at home. I started my cricket journey as a practice bowler at RR, and now representing a team that carries the name of my state means a lot to me. RR Lead Owner Manoj Badale said, Ravi is a special talent and someone our fans were eager to see in Royals colours. His return to the franchise feels like a homecoming, especially knowing he began his journey here as a net bowler. Hes a highly skilled bowler, a terrific fielder, and someone who embodies the hunger and spirit we value at this franchise. During the Syed Mushtaq Ali Trophy 202526, the leg spinner bowled with an economy of 8.40 and claimed nine wickets in seven games. In the 2025 Indian Premier League, Bishnoi was a member of the Lucknow Super Giants. The 25-year-old has played for the Punjab Kings and the Lucknow Super Giants and, with 77 appearances, has taken 72 wickets. RR Lead Owner Manoj Badale said, Ravi is a special talent and someone our fans were eager to see in Royals colours. His return to the franchise feels like a homecoming, especially knowing he began his journey here as a net bowler. Hes a highly skilled bowler, a terrific fielder, and someone who embodies the hunger and spirit we value at this franchise. Also Read: Live Cricket Score CSK raised the bid to Rs 4.2 crore before the Royals briefly stepped back. They returned at Rs 4.4 crore, starting another round of frenetic bidding that brought the total to Rs 5.8 crore. After a long discussion at the Royals table, RR jumped back in at Rs 6 crore, and CSK chose not to respond. Just when it seemed like the Royals had secured the player, the Sunrisers Hyderabad entered with a bid of Rs 6.2 crore, sparking the bidding war again. The price kept rising before finally settling at Rs 7.2 crore. Article Source: IANS
IPL Auction 2026: Defending champions RCB shop smart with 16.4 crore purse
Royal Challengers Bengaluru secured Venkatesh Iyer for seven crore rupees and Jacob Duffy for two crore rupees at the IPL Auction 2026. These acquisitions aim to strengthen the team as they enter the 2026 season as defending champions. The franchise focused on selective buys to maintain their title-winning core.
Tiger pugmarks found in Jharkhand's PTR on day-one of tiger census
RANCHI: Tiger pugmarks found on the very first day of the tiger census have lent significant weight to forest officials claims about the presence of big cats in the Palamu Tiger Reserve (PTR). The census began across Jharkhand on December 15. According to officials, it is being carried out across 31 territorial forest divisions and five protected wildlife divisions in the state, including major conservation areas such as the Palamu Tiger Reserve and the Dalma Wildlife Sanctuary. The exercise is part of a nationwide wildlife enumeration programme conducted once every four years to generate accurate and scientifically validated data on animal populations. PTR Deputy Director Prajesh Kant Jena confirmed the finding of tiger pugmarks in the reserve. Tiger pugmarks and their scat have been found at several places in the PTR on the very first day of the tiger census which started on Monday, Jena said. With this, the active presence of tigers in the area has been confirmed, he added. According to Jena, the pugmarks and other signs collected till December 22 will undergo scientific verification and documentation. The process will cover all ranges and beat areas in a phased manner and will also include camera trapping and data analysis. Besides tiger pugmarks, significant evidence of the presence of leopards and wolves has also been found, the Deputy Director said. The primary objective of the programme is to collect scientific and reliable data on the presence, activities and habitat of tigers, as well as other major carnivores and large herbivores. All activities will be conducted smoothly and in a timely manner, in accordance with the All-India Tiger Estimation (AITI) 2026 guidelines. Jena also said that 110 forest guards, 300 trackers and 25 volunteers are participating in the exercise. All teams have been deployed across various ranges and beats of the Palamu Tiger Reserve, where they are carrying out track searches, sign surveys and primary data recording. Notably, this is the first time in Jharkhand that volunteers from different universities studying botany and zoology have been deployed for the tiger census. According to forest officials, apart from creating a young workforce, the initiative will help raise awareness about comprehensive tiger estimation and conservation. This is also the first time in the state that tiger censuses are being conducted outside the Palamu Tiger Reserve, in forest ranges such as Ranchi, Dumka and Hazaribagh. Officials confirmed that the exercise combines traditional field-based methods with modern technology, including camera traps and a specially designed ecological mobile application for real-time data collection across the states forested landscapes. According to the 2006 census, Jharkhand had 10 tigers, a number that fell to three in 2014. The latest report places the total number of big cats in the state at six. Beginning with 22 tigers in 1972, the Palamu Tiger Reserve saw its peak in 1995, when it had 71 big cats. The decline that followed left only three tigers in 2014. In the 2018 tiger census, the number of tigers in the Palamu Tiger Reserve was reported as zero.
Divinity: Original Sin 2 for modern consoles is free for old fans
The definitive version of Divinity: Original Sin 2 , the sequel to Original Sin first released back in 2017, is now available for the PS5, Nintendo Switch 2 and Xbox X|S. The role-playing game was developed by Larian Studios, the same company that developed Baldurs Gate 3 . To be clear, the games new release isnt a remake or even a remaster its just a port for new consoles so that old and new fans alike can enjoy the game without having to bust out their previous-gen devices. Fans who already own a copy of the game can even get it for free. Original Sin 2 is the fifth main entry in the Divinity game series. In it, gamers play a sorcerer who can wield forbidden magic and who gets captured by the Magisters of the Divine Order so they can be cured of their powers. Players can make their character from scratch, creating their own class and giving their character the abilities, skills and stats they want. But they can also use any of the pre-set characters the game provides. Players who already have the 2017 version installed will get a free upgrade applicable to their console. If they dont have it installed anymore, they can go to games store page on their new device and download the upgrade for free aside from fans in Japan wholl have to pay 100 for the Switch 2 and PS4 upgrade. Larian is also working on the latest entry to the franchise, simply called Divinity , which is its biggest and most abitious game to date. This article originally appeared on Engadget at https://www.engadget.com/gaming/divinity-original-sin-2-for-modern-consoles-is-free-for-old-fans-130000192.html?src=rss
The Indian Premier League: The Indian Premier League (IPL) 2026 player auction started on a dull note in the uncapped players category, but Prashant Veer and Kartik Sharma then scripted history as Chennai Super Kings roped them in for a record price of Rs. 14.20 crore each. It all started with the uncapped batters category, but to everyones surprise, all six players in the list went unsold. The list included Aarya Desai, Yash Dhull, Abhinav Manohar, Anmolpreet Singh, Atharva Taide, and Abhinav Tejrana. However, what followed next was an unexpected bidding war for Auqib Dar, a Jammu and Kashmir all-rounder who bagged an extraordinary deal of Rs. 8.4 crore from the Delhi Capitals as the franchise beat Rajasthan Royals, Royal Challengers Bengaluru, and SunRisers Hyderabad to win the tense battle. Then came Prashant Veer, who stole the limelight by attracting the interest of five teams, only to be eventually purchased by five-time champions CSK. Among all-rounders, Shivang Kumar was only the third cricketer from the list to attract a bid, Rs. 30 lakh from SRH, as all other players- Rajvardhan Hangargekar, Tanush Kotian, Mahipal Lomror, Kamlesh Nagarkoti, Vijay Shankar, Sanvir Singh, and Eden Tom remained unsold. Among wicketkeeper batters, Kartik was the one who made headlines as five teams- MI, LSG, KKR, SRH, and CSK- raised the bar high. The Rajasthan power-hitter matched Veers sum to enter the history books as the Men in Yellow got him. All-rounder Veer and wicketkeeper-batter Kartik surpassed Avesh Khan to become the most expensive uncapped buys in the history of the tournament. At the IPL 2023 auction, Avesh was roped in by the Lucknow Super Giants for a sum of Rs. 10 crore, which made him the most expensive uncapped player. However, the 2026 edition of the auction saw CSK breaking the bank for the uncapped duo of Veer and Kartik, as each bagged a Rs. 14.20 crore deal from the five-time champions. Among Keepers, Mukul Choudhary (Rs. 2.6 Cr) and Tejasvi Singh (Rs. 3 Cr) were roped in by LSG and KKR, respectively, while Ruchit Ahir, Vansh Bedi, and Tushar Raheja went unsold. However, the 2026 edition of the auction saw CSK breaking the bank for the uncapped duo of Veer and Kartik, as each bagged a Rs. 14.20 crore deal from the five-time champions. Also Read: Live Cricket Score Then, three out of seven uncapped spinners- Yash Raj Punja (RR), Vignesh Puthur (RR), and Prashant Solanki (KKR) attracted bids. IPL veteran Karn Sharma, Kumar Kartikeya, Shivam Shukla, and Afghanistans Wahidullah Zadran, meanwhile, remained unsold. Article Source: IANS
IPL 2026 Auction: Prashant Veer And Kartik Sharma Become Highest-paid Uncapped Players
Syed Mushtaq Ali Trophy: Young stars Prashant Veer and Kartik Sharma became the highest-priced uncapped players in Indian Premier League (IPL) history as Chennai Super Kings went all out for young Indian talent at the mini auction for the 2026 edition at Etihad Arena in Abu Dhabi on Tuesday. CSK paid a staggering Rs 14.20 crore each for the duo, both coming in at a base price of Rs 30 lakh, underlining the franchises aggressive shift towards investing in emerging players. Uttar Pradesh all-rounder Prashant Veers price soared 47.3 times his base value after CSK fought off early interest from Rajasthan Royals and a late, intense challenge from Sunrisers Hyderabad to secure the 20-year-old left-arm spinner and middle-order batter. Veer, who will make his IPL debut, first caught attention while representing Noida Super Kings in the UP T20 League and has since built an impressive domestic record. In 12 T20 matches, he has scored 112 runs at a strike rate of 167.16 and taken 12 wickets in nine innings at an economy of 6.45. His strong showing in the Syed Mushtaq Ali Trophy further boosted his credentials, with CSK viewing him as a long-term successor to Ravindra Jadeja. Moments later, CSK matched that investment by signing Rajasthan power-hitter Kartik Sharma for the same 14.20 crore, following another fierce bidding war involving Mumbai Indians, Lucknow Super Giants, and Kolkata Knight Riders. Kartik, known for his explosive middle-order batting and dependable wicketkeeping, has scored 334 runs in 12 T20s at a strike rate of 164, smashing 28 sixes, and was among the leading six-hitters in the Ranji Trophy. Moments later, CSK matched that investment by signing Rajasthan power-hitter Kartik Sharma for the same 14.20 crore, following another fierce bidding war involving Mumbai Indians, Lucknow Super Giants, and Kolkata Knight Riders. Also Read: Live Cricket Score Kartik had trained with the CSK squad last season and has drawn praise across the domestic circuit for his ability to dominate spin and pace alike. Article Source: IANS
Mumbai Indians entered the IPL Auction 2026 with a minimal purse of Rs 2.75 crore after retaining 20 players. They strategically acquired South African wicketkeeper-batter Quinton de Kock for Rs 1 crore, bolstering their squad. The franchise also made significant moves during the trade window, securing Shardul Thakur, Sherfane Rutherford, and Mayank Markande to enhance their already strong lineup.
IPL 2026 Auction: Gujarat Titans have secured uncapped player Ashok Sharma for 90 lakh rupees. This acquisition happened during a competitive auction for the upcoming IPL 2026 season. The franchise aims to strengthen its middle order and death bowling. Gujarat Titans have retained several key players for the new season. Their strategy involves blending match-winners with a strong bowling attack.
IPL Auction: Paid Rs 25.20 Cr For Cameron Green As He Was In Our Range, Says KKR CEO Venky Mysore
KKR CEO Venky Mysore: Kolkata Knight Riders' CEO Venky Mysore has said that they paid a hefty sum to rope in Australian all-rounder Cameron Green because he was in the range they had thought. Claiming that having a young all-rounder just after appointing a power coach was a very nice move and went with their plans. Green was roped in by the Kolkata Knight Riders for a record sum of Rs. 25.20 crore at the Indian Premier League 2026 auction, underway at the Etihad Arena in Abu Dhabi. Well, first of all, we're very happy. This is something that we were really focused on and hoping for. Always fingers crossed because of the auction, anything can happen. I think we were quite happy with the price at which we got him. He adds immense value to the squad, and with Andre Russell coming on board as our new power coach, having a young all-rounder with IPL and international experience is ideal. Given his impact with both bat and ball and the conditions at Eden, we couldnt be happier with the outcome, he told the broadcasters, said Mysore in a press conference on Tuesday. At the same time, the KKR CEO clarified that they would have gone totally berserk in trying to get Green if they felt it would have impacted their overall auction plan. You know, there was always a concern that it had gone higher. What would we have done? I think the fact is that we were very keen but not so attached. So, at some level, if we felt that it could affect the rest of the auction, we would have let him go. And so, fortunately, that didn't happen. It came within the range that we were looking at. So, extremely happy with that. I think he adds a lot to our team, said Venky Mysore. Asked whether he was surprised to see Chennai Super Kings jump into the bidding war over Cameron Green after Rajasthan Royals had dropped out at INR 12 crore, There were no surprises. We all tried to prepare as well as possible. The surprise was Rajasthan coming in with their purse to bid. So, we knew that it was maybe to warm up the room or whatever it was. But that's okay. That happens, and that's absolutely fine. But no, no surprises at all. We fully expected CSK to come. And try their best to get it to a level that would have worked for them, perhaps. But we were just happy to have that one more bid that allowed us, said Mysore. He also supported the restrictions imposed on the number of foreign players that can be taken up by a franchise, and also the rule about capping the overall salary for a player to 18 crore. I think the rule, BCCI/IPL have made it in their wisdom on capping it at 18 crore. I think that's what you were talking about. From our standpoint, I don't think there is any concern in that regard. Whether it had gone to the player or gone this way, this is something that's an outflow for the franchise. So, we are okay. We are okay with that. And I don't think it changes anything as far as the auction is concerned, said Venky Mysore. Asked whether the lower price bagged by former KKR Venkatesh Iyer in this auction after being roped in for a massive price in the previous one was a kind of 'price correction', he said it all depended on the strategy for the auction. You know, it's so difficult to sort of give an answer to that. Because a lot of it is, you know, we did go for him, and then how all of these things work. But he has been a terrific player for us. He will be dearly missed. It's just one of these things that happens in an auction. When you're faced with an auction, you have opportunities to sort of think about your strategy. And if that strategy is taking you in a slightly different direction, sometimes these are things that happen. Not for the first time or the last time for us, or for that matter, other teams as well. So, it's a bit sad for us. But that's the way all of these things go, he added. Asked about what areas they are trying to strengthen in this auction, he said they had to sort of hit a reset button. When you're faced with an auction, you have opportunities to sort of think about your strategy. And if that strategy is taking you in a slightly different direction, sometimes these are things that happen. Not for the first time or the last time for us, or for that matter, other teams as well. So, it's a bit sad for us. But that's the way all of these things go, he added. Also Read: Live Cricket Score What kind of structure will allow us to be a very competitive team. We just felt last year we were missing out on a couple of areas. And so, based on that, I think that we have more work to do in the auction. But I think it's been a good start for us, said Mysore on their plans ahead. Article Source: IANS
Kolkata Knight Riders entered the IPL Auction 2026 with the largest purse after a disappointing 2025 season. Having retained 12 players and released key figures like Andre Russell, KKR aimed to rebuild their squad with a focus on filling batting, bowling, and leadership gaps. The franchise sought to reset after finishing eighth last season.
IPL 2026 auction: Who is Kartik Sharma, the 19-year-old who sealed a major 14.2 crore deal with CSK
In a dramatic IPL 2026 auction, 19-year-old Kartik Sharma was acquired by CSK for 14.2 crore, becoming the joint most expensive uncapped player in history. His explosive lower-order hitting in domestic white-ball cricket, including a strike rate exceeding 160 in the Syed Mushtaq Ali Trophy, fueled intense bidding wars among multiple franchises.
Delhi Capitals secured David Miller for 2 crore and Ben Duckett for 2 crore, while Auqib Dar was a significant acquisition at 8.40 crore. With a settled core, the franchise aims for precision in the auction, targeting an explosive opener and a death bowler to fill gaps left by released players.
IPL 2026: So Excited To Get Down To Eden, Says Cam Green After Being Roped In By KKR
Kolkata Knight Riders: Australia all-rounder Cameron Green made headlines on Tuesday after being roped in by the Kolkata Knight Riders (KKR) for a record sum of Rs. 25.20 crore at the Indian Premier League (IPL) 2026 auction, underway at the Etihad Arena in Abu Dhabi on Tuesday. Due to a mistake by his manager during the player auction registration, Green was registered as a batter. However, he clarified later that hed be available to bowl as well at the tournament. By marking his availability as an all-rounder, he surpassed the previous record held by his Australia teammate Mitchell Starc, who was bought by KKR for Rs 24.75 crore in the IPL 2024 auction. Cameron made his IPL debut in the 2023 season after the Mumbai Indians (MI) bought him for Rs 17.5 crore. Notably, at the time, he became the second-most-expensive overseas player in IPL auction history, the third-most expensive player ever, and the most expensive Australian player. Im so excited to be part of Kolkata for this years IPL to get down to the Eden Gardens, get used to that atmosphere, and hope its a great year for us. So see you soon, Green said in a video shared by the franchise across social media. Cameron made his IPL debut in the 2023 season after the Mumbai Indians (MI) bought him for Rs 17.5 crore. Notably, at the time, he became the second-most-expensive overseas player in IPL auction history, the third-most expensive player ever, and the most expensive Australian player. Also Read: Live Cricket Score The Royals withdrew when bids reached Rs. 13 crore. At that moment, Chennai Super Kings, five-time champions, joined the bidding war, increasing the competition. KKR and CSK entered the auction, with the largest funds, Rs. 64.30 crore and Rs. 43.40 crore, respectively. It was eventually the three-time champions who emerged on top in the battle as they bagged the Aussies services. Article Source: IANS
Indian Premier League: Punjab Kings captain Shreyas Iyer, while sharing insights into the teams approach to decision-making, said the franchise knows exactly what they want from the auction, which is underway here at the Etihad Arena on Tuesday. Shreyas Iyer joined Punjab Kings management at the Indian Premier League (IPL) 2026 auction, becoming only the second cricketer, after Rishabh Pant, to be a part of the process. There is no pressure as such. We had several meetings before coming here, and the way we have planned and prepared, everyone feels quite relaxed. We know exactly what we want, Iyer told JioStar. On the role of analytical data in auction strategy, he said, Analytical data definitely plays a big role. We have two analysts in our team, and the experience and depth of information they provide is immense. I dont know everything thats on the table yet, but once I sit down, Ill get a clearer picture. Im sure things are already buzzing. I can see it on the screen, and Im really looking forward to the experience and what it has to offer. Iyer, who left Kolkata Knight Riders after the teams victorious IPL 2024 campaign, was roped in by PBKS at the IPL 2025 mega-auction for a whopping Rs. 26.75 crore and handed the leadership duties. His captaincy proved critical for the team, as they reached only their second final in the tournaments history, only to lose the title to Royal Challengers Bengaluru (RCB), who lifted their maiden cup. Iyer further recognised the transition the team has undergone over the past year to build a more stable squad. Crediting head coach Ricky Ponting for this change, he said, I feel it all started with Ricky coming on board. He is fabulous. His player management skills are amazing. He provides confidence and freedom to every individual, from the most senior player to the newcomers. He continued: When you have people like that alongside you, it gives a player immense motivation and confidence. I felt that basically gave us the liberty to go out there and perform to the best of our abilities. Iyer further recognised the transition the team has undergone over the past year to build a more stable squad. Crediting head coach Ricky Ponting for this change, he said, I feel it all started with Ricky coming on board. He is fabulous. His player management skills are amazing. He provides confidence and freedom to every individual, from the most senior player to the newcomers. Also Read: Live Cricket Score He further added, We have to rebuild the family. A lot of players will be returning from international duty, so I dont think we can implement changes immediately. We need a practice game to gel and bond as a team. Then we can identify what we want to work on. Article Source: IANS
IPL 2026 Auction: Cameron Green To Get Rs 18 Crore Despite KKR's Rs 25.2 Cr Bid
Indian Premier League: Though Cameron became the most expensive overseas buy in the Indian Premier League history after fetching a staggering Rs 25.20 crore bid from three-time champions Kolkata Knight Riders (KKR), the Australian all-rounder will only take home Rs 18 crore, in accordance with the new maximum fee rule. The rule was introduced last year to address the shared concern of franchises that some overseas players were registering solely at mini auctions to exploit the supply-demand imbalance. According to the rule, the overseas player cannot be paid more than Rs 18 crore, which was the highest bracket for franchises retaining players ahead of the 2025 mega auction. If the bid exceeded the Rs 18-crore threshold, the additional money would be used by the BCCI for player welfare. In a note to franchises last year, the IPL said, Any overseas player's auction fee at small auction will be lower than the highest retention price of Rs 18 crore and the highest auction price at the big auction. In case the highest auction price at the big auction is Rs 20 crore, then Rs 18 crore will be the cap. If the highest auction price at big auction is Rs 16 crore, then the cap will be Rs 16 crore. Registered as a batter due to an oversight by his manager during the player auction registration, Green surpassed the previous record set by his Australia teammate Mitchell Starc, whom KKR bought for Rs 24.75 crore in IPL 2024 auction. Overall, he became the third most expensive player in the history of the IPL auction after Rishabh Pant (Rs 27 crore to Lucknow Super Giants in the IPL 2025 mega auction) and Punjab Kings captain Shreyas Iyer (26.75 crore in the IPL 2025 auction). Registered as a batter due to an oversight by his manager during the player auction registration, Green surpassed the previous record set by his Australia teammate Mitchell Starc, whom KKR bought for Rs 24.75 crore in IPL 2024 auction. Also Read: Live Cricket Score Most recently, he played in IPL 2024 for RCB after being traded in from MI. In 12 innings, he scored 255 runs at a strike rate of 143.25 and took 10 wickets in 13 matches with the ball at an economy rate of 8.61. Article Source: IANS
IPL Auction 2026: Ravi Bishnoi spins his way to Rajasthan Royals for 7.20 crore
Despite inconsistent recent IPL seasons, Ravi Bishnoi's valuable wrist-spin skill commanded a fierce bidding war, with Rajasthan Royals securing him for 7.20 crore. The 25-year-old bowler, with 72 IPL wickets, now aims to prove his worth and potentially earn a national team recall with a strong performance for his new franchise.
IPL 2026 Auction: Duckett Goes To DC; De Kock Joins MI
Indian Premier League: England wicketkeeper-batter Ben Duckett was sold to Delhi Capitals for a base price of Rs 2 crore in the ongoing Indian Premier League (IPL) 2026 mini auction, taking place here at the Etihad Arena. Duckett made his T20 debut in 2012 and has scored 5,397 runs in 216 T20 matches, including 34 half-centuries. With a best score of 84, he has amassed 527 runs for England in 20 games at an average of 29.27 and a strike rate of 153.64. He has played for Islamabad United and Quetta Gladiators in the Pakistan Super League, Brisbane Heat and Melbourne Stars in the Big Bash League, and Welsh Fire in The Hundred, among other T20 competitions worldwide. South Africa wicketkeeper-batter Quinton de Kock, who has showcased great form during the ongoing white-ball series, was signed by the Mumbai Indians for a base price of Rs 1 crore. De Kock was released by Kolkata Knight Riders (KKR) following the IPL 2025. De Kock has represented Sunrisers Hyderabad, Delhi Daredevils, Royal Challengers Bengaluru, Mumbai Indians, Lucknow Super Giants, and Kolkata Knight Riders across his IPL career. In 115 games, he has amassed 3309 runs at a strike rate of 134.02 and an average of 30.63. The wicket-keeper batter scored an incredible 90 off 46 balls against India in Chandigarh in the second T20I of the ongoing five-match series. South Africa wicketkeeper-batter Quinton de Kock, who has showcased great form during the ongoing white-ball series, was signed by the Mumbai Indians for a base price of Rs 1 crore. De Kock was released by Kolkata Knight Riders (KKR) following the IPL 2025. Also Read: Live Cricket Score This marks Allens second IPL franchise after an earlier stint with the Royal Challengers Bengaluru. Meanwhile, England wicketkeeper-batter Jamie Smith and Jonny Bairstow, Afghanistan's Rahmanullah Gurbaz, and India's KS Bharat remained unsold. Article Source: IANS
Sri Lankan fast bowler Matheesha Pathirana was sold for a significant sum at the IPL Auction. This sale underscores the high value placed on bowlers skilled in the death overs of T20 cricket. Pathirana, known for his yorkers and closing ability, joins his new franchise after a surprising retention decision by his former team.
Shrimps and prawns are not same! What anatomy reveals about size, texture and taste
While often used interchangeably, shrimp and prawns are distinct decapod crustaceans with anatomical differences in their gills, body structure, and legs. Shrimp have plate-like gills and curl tightly when coiled, while prawns possess branching gills and maintain a straighter posture. Though size can vary, their flavors are similar, making them interchangeable in recipes.
GT likely to go for a finisher in IPL auction: Team owner
Gujarat Titans owner Jinal Mehta backs Ashish Nehra and the coaching staff to sustain the franchises success, crediting their consistency for building a strong team culture. Unfazed by a modest auction purse, Mehta says retaining the core was the priority, with selective additions planned to strengthen the squad sustainably.
IPL Auction 2026: Sarfaraz Khan goes unsold as franchises pass on Mumbai batter
Despite a stellar domestic career and a recent Test debut for India, Mumbai's Sarfaraz Khan went unsold in the 2026 IPL auction. His journey, marked by early records and consistent Ranji Trophy performances, has not translated into consistent IPL franchise interest. Franchises have shown hesitation due to T20 inconsistencies and a preference for younger talent.
Captain Shreyas Iyer Joins PBKS Think Tank At IPL 2026 Auction Table
Captain Shreyas Iyer: Shreyas Iyer joined Punjab Kings management at the Indian Premier League (IPL) 2026 auction table, becoming only the second cricketer, after Rishabh Pant, to be a part of the process. The IPL 2026 auction is currently underway here at the Etihad Arena. Pant was part of the auction table when he was the Delhi Capitals skipper, for the 2024 edition of the event. IPL 2024 was Pants comeback to the league after his near-death accident. That edition, notably, was also his last with the franchise, as he was roped in by the Lucknow Super Giants at the IPL 2025 mega auction last year. Iyer, who left Kolkata Knight Riders after the teams victorious IPL 2024 campaign, was roped in by PBKS at the IPL 2025 mega-auction for a whopping Rs. 26.75 crore and handed the leadership duties. His captaincy proved critical for the team, as they reached only their second final in the tournaments history, only to lose the title to Royal Challengers Bengaluru (RCB), who lifted their maiden cup. The IPL 2025 runners-up have already retained a core group of 21 players, providing a stable base as they plan to fill a few important gaps with the 11.5 crore they still have. With four remaining slots, including two for overseas players, PBKS has the structure and flexibility to make precise, high-impact additions. With a near-complete roster, Punjab Kings will mainly focus on targeted, minor upgrades during the auction rather than major overhauls. They aim to acquire a powerful middle-order batter to boost late-game scoring and increase batting lineup flexibility. The IPL 2025 runners-up have already retained a core group of 21 players, providing a stable base as they plan to fill a few important gaps with the 11.5 crore they still have. With four remaining slots, including two for overseas players, PBKS has the structure and flexibility to make precise, high-impact additions. Also Read: Live Cricket Score PBKS squad before IPL 2026 auction: Priyansh Arya, Prabhsimran Singh, Shreyas Iyer, Nehal Wadhera, Shashank Singh, Marcus Stoinis, Azmatullah Omarzai, Vijaykumar Vyshak, Arshdeep Singh, Yuzvendra Chahal, Harpreet Brar, Suryansh Shedge, Vishnu Vinod, Xavier Bartlett, Yash Thakur, Mitchell Owen, Harnoor Singh, Musheer Khan, Pyla Avinash, Marco Jansen, Lockie Ferguson. Article Source: IANS
IPL Auction 2026: English all-rounder Liam Livingstone unsold in major shock
England all-rounder Liam Livingstone went unsold at the IPL auction with a 2 crore base price, a surprising turn after being released by RCB. Despite a subdued IPL 2025 season, his powerful T20 reputation and leg-spin bowling were expected to draw bids. This unexpected outcome highlights a shift in franchise demand.
IPL Auction 2026: Shocker for Jake Fraser-McGurk as the Australian is first to go unsold
Australian opener Jake Fraser-McGurk went unsold at the IPL Auction 2026, failing to attract bids despite a strong debut in 2024. After an underwhelming IPL 2025, his previous explosive form and record-breaking feats couldn't secure him a franchise this time around.
IPL Auction Record Buy: Cameron Green fetched a massive bid at the IPL Auction, becoming the most expensive player in IPL Auction. Multiple teams vied for the Australian all-rounder but Kolkata Knight Riders finally bought him. Cameron Green's ability with bat and ball made him a top target. He offers power hitting and bowling skills. This makes him a valuable asset for any franchise. His proven T20 performance justifies the high price.
IPL Auction 2026: Devon Conway remains unsold as franchisees save purse for upcoming bids
New Zealand's Devon Conway surprisingly went unsold in the IPL Auction despite his consistent top-order batting prowess. Having previously been a key player for Chennai Super Kings, his recent dip in form in IPL 2025 led to franchises saving their purse, overlooking his established reliability and match-winning temperament.
IPL Auction 2026: Prithvi Shaw goes unsold for second straight year
IPL Auction 2026: Prithvi Shaw, once a franchise mainstay, went unsold at the IPL Auction 2026 with a base price of 75 lakh. Despite a promising start in 2018 and a career-high 2021 season, franchises overlooked his pedigree. Shaw's journey began with an U-19 World Cup win and rapid domestic success, leading to an IPL debut and Test century.
IPL 2026: Does India U-19 history-maker Abhigyan Kundu feature in the auction list?
Abhigyan Kundu made history with an unbeaten 209 in the U-19 Asia Cup, becoming the first Indian to score a double century in Youth ODIs. Despite this remarkable feat, the 17-year-old wicketkeeper-batter will not be part of the IPL 2026 auction today, leaving franchises unable to bid on the young talent.
IPL 2026 set to be held from March 26 to May 31
The ICC T20 World Cup final is scheduled to be played in Ahmedabad on March 8, allowing a preparatory gap of more than a fortnight for leading international and Indian players to transition into franchise commitments
IPL Auction: Venkatesh Iyer sends timely reminder with SMAT blitz
Venkatesh Iyer delivered a commanding 70 off 43 balls in the Syed Mushtaq Ali Trophy, just hours before the IPL 2026 Auction. Released by KKR after a record price tag last season, his fluent knock highlighted his value as a proven Indian match-winner, potentially reigniting strong franchise interest.
IPL Auction: Can same-name players cause confusion at the bidding table?
A mix-up at the IPL 2024 auction saw Punjab Kings briefly attempt to retract their bid for Shashank Singh, citing mistaken identity due to two players sharing the same name. The franchise later clarified that the all-rounder from Chhattisgarh was always a target, expressing delight in securing him. The player himself reassured fans on social media.
Venkatesh Iyer Smashes Timely 70 Off 43 In SMAT On IPL 2026 Auction Day
Syed Mushtaq Ali Trophy Elite: India all-rounder Venkatesh Iyer delivered a timely reminder of his credentials with a polished 70 off 43 deliveries for Madhya Pradesh in a Syed Mushtaq Ali Trophy Elite 2025 Super League Group A fixture against Punjab at the DY Patil Academy, Ambi, Pune, on Tuesday. His innings was laced with eight boundaries and two sixes, underlining his ability to control the tempo in the middle order. The performance came just a few hours before the IPL 2026 auction, set to take place at the Etihad Arena in Abu Dhabi on Tuesday, making the knock particularly significant. With franchises reconsidering their choices, Venkateshs fluent display arrived at a most timely moment. Venkatesh burst onto the national radar after an impressive IPL debut season with the Kolkata Knight Riders in 2021, a campaign that earned him an India call-up and marked him out as one of the most promising all-rounders in the domestic circuit. His rise had begun earlier with a strong showing for Madhya Pradesh during the 202021 limited-overs season. While his IPL 2022 performance was relatively modest, Venkatesh recovered in 2023, scoring 404 runs for KKR, including a century, at a strike rate of 145.85. His status within the franchise increased to the point that he captained the side a few times and was considered for the captaincy before Ajinkya Rahane took over last season. However, the 2025 IPL proved to be a challenging campaign. Despite being retained at a hefty Rs 23.75 crore following the mega auction, Venkatesh managed only 142 runs across 11 matches, with a batting average of 20.28. The decline in performance ultimately prompted KKR to part ways with the left-hander, bringing an end to an association that had spanned his entire IPL career. While his IPL 2022 performance was relatively modest, Venkatesh recovered in 2023, scoring 404 runs for KKR, including a century, at a strike rate of 145.85. His status within the franchise increased to the point that he captained the side a few times and was considered for the captaincy before Ajinkya Rahane took over last season. Also Read: Live Cricket Score KKR enter the auction with the biggest purse among all ten teams, of 64.30 crore, and will eye rebuilding the outfit with 13 slots to fill. Article Source: IANS
IPL Auction: LSG Look To Buy Livingstone For Finishers Role, Says Kaif
Lucknow Super Giants: Lucknow Super Giants (LSG) could look to buy Englands batting all-rounder Liam Livingstone at the IPL 2026 auction to bolster their lower-order firepower, said former India batter Mohammad Kaif. The IPL 2026 auction will be held at the Etihad Arena in Abu Dhabi on Tuesday, and they come in with a purse of Rs 22.95 crore to fill six slots, four of which are for roping in overseas players. With David Miller released ahead of the auction, LSGs primary goal will be to get a player who fills in that void. One name that comes to mind is Liam Livingstone. He plays the role of a finisher and plays at number five or six. With them releasing Miller, his direct replacement option is Livingstone. He bowls as well and although his current form is not good, but I think he has a lot of experience and his strike rate is quite high. So instead of David Miller, Lucknow would like to run behind Livingstone because you have three overseas batters in Pooran, Markram and Marsh, and you need a finisher who can play at number five or six for Lucknow, said Kaif, a JioStar expert, in an exclusive conversation with IANS ahead of the mini auction. LSG enters the auction with enviable depth in their Indian pace attack, strengthened by the acquisitions of veteran seamer Mohammed Shami and young pacer Arjun Tendulkar. The duo coming in means theres additional cover for pacers Mohsin Khan, Avesh Khan and Mayank Yadav, who have been dealing with injuries for a long time. Kaif feels LSG should look to rope in either of the South African pacers Anrich Nortje or Lungi Ngidi as their overseas fast bowling option to balance the squad. First of all, I pray and hope that Avesh Khan and Mayank Yadav are close to being fully fit, as its almost 5-6 months now. Lucknow will be praying that they recover and come back to action. Now the second question is, who should they target? I think they need overseas fast bowlers. There are options in Anrich Nortje and Lungi Ngidi. Nortje could be an option because Lucknow has a large ground, a square boundary, and a red soil pitch, which can help him in generating good bounce and pace. So they can target Nortje as well, but as I said earlier, the injured players should be fit, and then pick either Nortje or Ngidi as an option, he added. In terms of spinners, New Delhi-based Digvesh Rathi remains the lone wrist-spin option in LSGs roster, leaving the franchise with a gap to address at the auction. Having released Ravi Bishnoi ahead of the auction, boosting their spin bowling department with an experienced player to complement Rathi and provide variety in middle-overs bowling will also be key for LSG. Kaif suggested that LSG may need to explore uncapped spin options, given the possibility of Bishnoi fetching an expensive pay cheque at the auction. One issue is that there may not be enough purse left for Lucknow to buy Bishnoi back. Lucknow won't be able to afford him at an expensive price. KKR are having a lot of money, and then Chennai is also there. So I think that by the time Bishnois number comes, a lot of people will want to run behind him. Now Digvesh Rathi has become their premier leg spinner. (Skipper Rishabh) Pant also likes him because he bowls in the power-play, and takes wickets in the middle overs. One issue is that there may not be enough purse left for Lucknow to buy Bishnoi back. Lucknow won't be able to afford him at an expensive price. Also Read: Live Cricket Score Catch all the action from the TATA IPL 2026 mini-auction, December 16, 2:30 PM onwards, LIVE on JioHotstar and Star Sports Network. Article Source: IANS
Armageddon, The Transformers franchise maker, Michael Bay, teamed up with AR Rahman for Vinod Bhanushali's new creative collaboration. The celebrated music composer called it a 'beautiful space for music'.
IPL 2026 dates confirmed: Season to run from March 26 to May 31
IPL 2026 is set to commence on March 26 and conclude on May 31, with the opening match potentially at Bengaluru's Chinnaswamy Stadium, pending government clearance. Franchise representatives met in Abu Dhabi to finalise these dates ahead of Tuesday's auction. The auction will feature a pool of 359 players, with marquee names like Cameron Green expected to fetch high bids.
Explained: Why Green and other overseas stars cant earn beyond Rs 18 crore at IPL Auction
A new IPL rule caps overseas player salaries at INR 18 crore, regardless of auction bids, to enforce financial discipline and prevent inflation. While franchises pay the full bid amount, the excess goes to the BCCI's player welfare fund, with Indian players remaining unaffected by this cap.
Dream11 exits IPL jerseys as teams sign new principal sponsors
Several IPL franchises are set to unveil new principal sponsors for the upcoming season, with deals priced 15-20% higher than previous contracts. This shift sees legacy brands like Birla Estates and Hero Vida replacing gaming companies such as Dream11, reflecting a recalibration in cricket sponsorships.
IPL 2026 To Be Held From March 26 To May 31: Report
Karnataka State Cricket Association: The 2026 edition of the Indian Premier League (IPL) will be held from March 26 to May 31, the Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI) informed the franchises, a report claimed on Monday. The IPL franchises were informed about the dates by Hemang Amin, the league's CDO, during a briefing ahead of Tuesday's auction in Abu Dhabi, Cricbuzz said in a report. The 19th edition of India's domestic T20 franchise will start on March 26 with defending champions Royal Challengers Bengaluru (RCB) opening their campaign. However, whether they will play their home matches at the M. Chinnaswamy Stadium is not clear yet. The stadium's availability is in question because of the horrific stampede in Bengaluru during RCB's celebration of their maiden IPL title a few months back. The report claimed that while the Karnataka State Cricket Association (KSCA) has received a conditional clearance from the state government to host IPL games at the venue, it is subject to meeting stipulated safety and security requirements. Meanwhile, the BCCI on Monday night finalised the player pool by adding 19 players late on the eve of the auction for the 2026 edition of IPL in Abu Dhabi. The late additions included Bengal opener Abhimanyu Easwaran, Ben Sears of New Zealand, and Ethan Bosch of South Africa. The spotlight will be on the likes of Cameron Green, Liam Livingstone, and Ravi Bishnoi as ten franchises gear up for the IPL 2026 auction, set to take place at the Etihad Arena in Abu Dhabi on Tuesday. It will mark the third straight time of an IPL auction happening outside India after Dubai (2024) and Jeddah (2025). All ten teams are expected to loosen their purse strings in pursuit of marquee talent and have a squad that can win the IPL 2026 trophy. A total of 77 slots are available, including 31 for overseas players. Three-time winners Kolkata Knight Riders (KKR) have the most vacancies with 13, followed by 2016 champions Sunrisers Hyderabad (SRH) with ten. From a longlist of 1,355 players, 359 have been shortlisted 244 Indian and 115 overseas. Forty players have entered at the maximum base price of Rs 2 crore, with Bishnoi and Venkatesh Iyer the only Indians in that group. All ten teams are expected to loosen their purse strings in pursuit of marquee talent and have a squad that can win the IPL 2026 trophy. A total of 77 slots are available, including 31 for overseas players. Three-time winners Kolkata Knight Riders (KKR) have the most vacancies with 13, followed by 2016 champions Sunrisers Hyderabad (SRH) with ten. Also Read: Live Cricket Score Apart from Bishnoi and Green, the England duo of Liam Livingstone and Jamie Smith, along with NZ pacer Matt Henry, keeper-batter Tim Seifert, and South Africa batter David Miller, are also likely to attract strong interest from all ten teams, as is Sri Lanka pacer Matheesha Pathirana, who was let go of by Chennai Super Kings (CSK). Article Source: IANS
IPL 2026 Auction: How Gujarat Titans can outsmart rivals and plug every gap with smart buys
Gujarat Titans enter the 2026 IPL season with a strong core, aiming for targeted upgrades at the mini-auction. After a playoff finish in 2025, the franchise prioritizes continuity, retaining key players like Shubman Gill and Rashid Khan. With a limited purse and five slots to fill, GT will focus on acquiring specialists to enhance their title-contending unit.
Fast & Furious: Is Cristiano Ronaldo joining the franchise? Heres what Vin Diesel posted
Reports about a potential crossover between global football superstar Cristiano Ronaldo and Hollywoods high-octane Fast & Furious franchise has intensified after actor-producer Vin Diesel posted a cryptic social media update featuring the Portuguese icon.
IPL 2026 retentions: As the IPL approaches its 19th season, a sharp mini-auction looms, marking a crucial checkpoint for franchises. With limited slots and significant funds for some, the focus is on immediate impact players, especially seam-bowling all-rounders. Teams like KKR and CSK are poised for major moves, aiming to fix weaknesses and strengthen squads before the next mega auction.
Pregnant tribal woman and her unborn child die due to lack of road facility in Jharkhands Gumla
RANCHI: In a heart-wrenching incident in Jharkhands Gumla, a pregnant tribal woman, Sukri Kumari and her child in the womb, lost their lives due to a lack of road service on Sunday. Since the ambulance could not reach the village, she was carried by her family members for over a kilometre from her home in Jhalakapat to Karasilli village on a carrying yoke through the hilly terrain. After reaching Karasilli, the woman got a Mamta Vahan in which she was taken to the Ghaghra Community Health Centre. Giving her initial treatment, the doctors immediately referred her to Gumla Sadar Hospital as her condition was critical. Amidst the struggle for treatment, due to a lack of basic facilities, Sukri Kumari died just after reaching Sadar Hospital. Gumla Civil Surgeon, Dr Shambhu Nath Chaudhary, asserted that Sukri Kumari lost her life due to delayed access to medical assistance. Unable to find an ambulance, tribal man in Jharkhand sets off for home carrying his ailing wife Had she had to give medical assistance at the CHC a few hours before, maybe her life could have been saved. The terrain from her village, located on the hills, is really very difficult, where the Mamta Vahan can't reach, said the Civil Surgeon. After reaching the CHC, all the medical facilities were provided to her on time, he added. According to the Civil Surgeon, the cause of death of the woman in medical terms was pregnancy-induced hypertensive disorder, but the real cause of death is delayed medical access. At 2:39 am, a call was received by the local Sahiya Didi, and at 2:44 am, the call was received by the call centre. At 3:15 am, Mamta Vahan reached at the spot. But it took several hours for the woman to reach Mamta Vahan, waiting for her at Karasilli, about a kilometre from her village, said the Civil Surgeon. The Civil Surgeon also informed that Sukir Kumari had returned from Himachal Pradesh, where she had gone to secure money. It has delayed the registration process. She was merely 17 years old, and it was her first pregnancy, he said. According to villagers, Jhalakapat village still lacks a proper road even after 78 years of independence. The situation worsens considerably during the rainy season, they said. Due to the absence of a road, basic amenities such as education and healthcare, and employment opportunities are practically inaccessible to the villagers. Notably, Jhalakapat village under Dirgaon Panchayat is a Maoist-affected location in an extremely remote area. Villagers claimed that they have been demanding a road for several years, but have received only empty promises. In the village, predominantly inhabited by tribal communities, development schemes have remained only on paper. Even the children have to travel several kilometres to pursue education. In 2025, reaching the hospital for the sick is a perilous task for Jharkhands Gumla villagers. Pregnant woman dies after falling from operation theatre table in Jharkhand hospital
IPL 2026 Auction: Meet The Uncapped Indian Players Set To Attract Attention Of The Franchises
Syed Mushtaq Ali Trophy: With the Indian Premier League (IPL) 2026 auction now a day away, all eyes will be on the uncapped domestic players expected to land big paydays and instant recognition from the cricketing world. Once the IPL 2025 season was over, coaches and scouts of all ten teams were busy criss-crossing the country to see various state T20 league games and Syed Mushtaq Ali Trophy matches to identify the gems who can be of great value to their teams. With limited purses and multiple slots to fill, uncapped Indian cricketers are expected to be in huge demand. IANS looks at five players who could attract significant interest when auction bidding begins in Abu Dhabi. Prashant Veer Base price of Rs 30 lakh The slow left-arm spin bowling all-rounder from Amethi, Uttar Pradesh, has been talked highly of for his skills, which have earned him comparison with Ravindra Jadeja. In the Syed Mushtaq Ali Trophy, Veer scored 112 runs at a strike rate of 169.69 and claimed nine wickets at an economy of 6.76, highlighted by a 3-20 and an unbeaten 40. His exploits in the UP T20 League for Noida Super Kings further underlined his batting prowess amassing 320 runs along with taking eight wickets across 10 matches. Having already attended IPL trials, including those of five-time champions Chennai Super Kings, eyeing to fill a Jadeja-sized void, the 23-year-old allrounder is expected to be firmly on the radar of all teams. Auqib Nabi Dar - Base price of Rs 30 lakh The seam-bowling all-rounder from Jammu & Kashmir has emerged as one of Indias most consistent performers in domestic cricket. In the first half of the Ranji Trophy, Nabi has taken 29 wickets in five matches at an average of 13.27, including a best haul of 7-24. Nabis white-ball form has been equally impressive. In the Syed Mushtaq Ali Trophy, he claimed 15 wickets in seven matches at an economy of 7.41. attributes that have drawn the attention of franchise scouts. He would be hoping this time he gets an IPL deal after having two net bowling stints before in the tournament. Ashok Sharma - Base price of Rs 30 lakh The fast bowler has been on top of the wicket-taking chart in the ongoing Syed Mushtaq Ali Trophy picking 20 wickets in nine matches, including best figures of 4-16, and consistently clocking speeds above 140 kmph. Sharma was a net bowler with the Rajasthan Royals and was part of their squad in IPL 2025, but didnt get a game. He didnt get a game with the Kolkata Knight Riders in IPL 2023. But his consistent performance in the SMAT and attending trials with multiple franchises means he will attract aggressive bidding from teams looking to bolster their fast-bowling stocks. Kartik Sharma - Base price of Rs 30 lakh There were curious eyes when he was signed up by JSW, which manages cricketers like Axar Patel, Jemimah Rodrigues, and Shafali Verma. But his reputation as a clean striker and lower-order finisher with a penchant to hit big sixes all of this at just 19 has already excited many onlookers. Such was the effect that he was spotted at CSK trials ahead of the auction. He was Rajasthan's highest run-getter in the previous edition of the Vijay Hazare Trophy with 445 runs in eight innings, coming at a strike rate of 118.03. Kartik scored 133 runs in five games at a strike rate of over 160 in Rajasthans group stage campaign in the Syed Mushtaq Ali Trophy, before a finger injury ruled him out of the Super League phase. Tejasvi Singh Dahiya - Base price of Rs 30 lakh The wicketkeeper-batter from New Delhi is on the radar of franchises after a superlative showing in the past few months, earning him spots in trials of various franchises. He was one of the standout performers in the 2025 Delhi Premier League (DPL), scoring 339 runs in 10 innings at a strike rate of 190.45, and that paved his way into selection to the Delhi team for the Syed Mushtaq Ali Trophy. Tejasvi Singh Dahiya - Base price of Rs 30 lakh Also Read: Live Cricket Score Other uncapped players on the radar of franchises are Tushar Raheja, Ravi Singh, Krains Fuletra, Sairaj Patil, Arpit Rana, Yash Dhull, Sarthak Ranjan, Abhishek Pathak, Mangesh Yadav, Naman Tiwari, Salman Nizar, Yash Raj Punja, Raj Limbani, Sunny Sandhu, Salil Arora, Money Grewal, Sushant Mishra, and Ravi Kumar. Article Source: IANS
The Brihanmumbai Municipal Corporation (BMC) is among the 29 municipal corporations in Maharashtra to which elections will be held on January 15, Wednesday. The counting of votes is scheduled for January 16, Friday, the State Election Commission (SEC) announced on Monday. Mumbai, Navi Mumbai, Thane, Pune, Nashik, Nagpur and Chhatrapati Sambhajinagar are among the other prominent civic bodies going to polls. He reportedly confirmed that the election code of conduct has now come into force in all 29 local bodies. As many as 2,869 seats in these municipal corporations will be up for grabs in these local bodies, where elections are due since early 2022. Maharashtra State Election Commissioner Dinesh Waghmare said the nomination process will begin on December 23, Tuesday with candidates allowed to make their submissions for a week until December 30. Scrutiny of papers will be done on December 31, and January 2, Friday, will be the last date of withdrawal of nominations, he said. Symbol allocation and the final list of candidates will be published on January 3. Polling in the 29 municipal corporations spread across Maharashtra will take place on January 15 and votes will be counted the next day, news agency PTI quoted Waghmare as saying. He said these 29 civic bodies, including the Brihanmumbai Municipal Corporation (BMC), have 2,869 seats on offer and 3.48 crore voters are eligible to exercise their franchise in these major urban centres of the state. After long and tiring political blame games and court battles, the Supreme Court had finally given the deadline of January 31 to conduct the polls, reported Marathi media. Full list of local bodies heading to polls: BMC Pune Municipal Corporation Nagpur Municipal Corporation Solapur Municipal Corporation Kolhapur Municipal Corporation Thane Municipal Corporation Pimpri-Chinchwad Municipal Corporation Nashik Municipal Corporation Aurangabad Municipal Corporation Kalyan-Dombivli Municipal Corporation Amravati Municipal Corporation New Mumbai Municipal Corporation NandedWaghala Municipal Corporation Ulhas Nagar Municipal Corporation Sangli-Miraj-Kupwara Municipal Corporation Malegaon Municipal Corporation Bhiwandi-Nizampur Municipal Corporation Akola Municipal Corporation Bhayander Municipal Corporation Ahmednagar Municipal Corporation Dhule Municipal Corporation Jalgaon Municipal Corporation Vasai-Virar Municipal Corporation Parbhani Municipal Corporation Chandrapur Municipal Corporation Latur Municipal Corporation Panvel Municipal Corporation Ichalkaranji Municipal Corporation Jalna Municipal Corporation Dates to remember: Application submission window: December 2330, 2025 Application scrutiny: December 31, 2025 Last date for withdrawal of candidature: January 2, 2026 Election symbol allocation and release of final candidate list: January 3, 2026 Polling date: January 15, 2026 Counting of votes: January 16, 2026
IPL 2026 Auction: Cameron Green Fetches Rs 30 Crore From KKR In Mock Bidding
Syed Mushtaq Ali Trophy: Australias seam bowling all-rounder Cameron Green underlined his status as the most sought-after player ahead of the IPL 2026 auction, fetching Rs 30.5 crore from Kolkata Knight Riders (KKR) in a mock bidding exercise. Registered as a batter, owing to a goof-up by his manager during the player auction registration, Green is expected to be hotly pursued by both KKR and Chennai Super Kings (CSK) when the real auction begins at the Etihad Arena in Abu Dhabi on Tuesday. I knew CSK would also go after a middle-order all-rounder. I thought they would go somewhere around 2528 crore. Realistically, I think they would go up to around Rs 20 crore in the actual auction, because they would want to keep space for other Indian and overseas players as well. But in the mock auctions, I was ready to go up to 35 crore for a player like Green. I think Cameron Green should bat at No. 3 in the order, said JioStar expert and former India player Robin Uthappa, who was the KKR representative in the mock auction held on Monday. In the mock auction, Sri Lanka fast bowler Matheesha Pathirana was picked by KKR for 13 crore. Its all about planning and keeping things simple. We needed a good death bowler. With the kind of coaching staff KKR have, Pathirana can be very effective at the death. He has been a little off colour recently and has gone back into the auction pool, which I think will make him more motivated to perform. A change of franchise can also help. With Pathirana, Varun Chakravarthy and Vaibhav Arora, if youre asking who bats in the first XI, it would be Vaibhav Arora. Also, Varun has been working on his batting, hes not too far away from clearing the ropes either, added Uthappa. Former India cricketer Suresh Raina, who was CSKs representative in the mock exercise, commented on picking Sarfaraz Khan for Rs 7 crore. I think he is in great form. We saw earlier that when Venkatesh Iyer was bought for a big amount, the form wasnt quite there. Sarfaraz, on the other hand, is batting really well right now. You dont get that kind of player easilythe range of shots he plays, the confidence he has. The form Sarfaraz is in, even if he plays four or six matches and wins you two games, that 7 crore will be fully justified. After his first-class performances, he has also been included in the Syed Mushtaq Ali Trophy. He is a form player, following a process. Chennais wicket is technically sound, and if he gets set in a system like CSK, where the focus is on winning games, I think CSK will benefit greatly from his form. On CSKs overall auction strategy executed by him, Raina explained picking leg-spinners Rahul Chahar and Wanindu Hasaranga, as well as pacer Anrich Nortje. I think we have addressed key areas in the auction war room. We picked Rahul Chahar as a leg-spinner and Wanindu Hasaranga because we dont have Jadeja and Ashwin. We also strengthened our pace attackAnrich Nortje is there, he has pace and can bowl yorkers consistently. The form Sarfaraz is in, even if he plays four or six matches and wins you two games, that 7 crore will be fully justified. After his first-class performances, he has also been included in the Syed Mushtaq Ali Trophy. He is a form player, following a process. Chennais wicket is technically sound, and if he gets set in a system like CSK, where the focus is on winning games, I think CSK will benefit greatly from his form. Also Read: Live Cricket Score You need that fireplayers who go out and express themselves fearlessly. In the main auction, many more players will be available. CSK may even look to buy Matheesha Pathirana again, given their concern around death bowling. That will be one of their key focus areas, he concluded. Article Source: IANS
With just one day left for the much-awaited IPL 2026 Auction, where 10 franchises will have Rs 237.55 crore to spend, let us take a look at some of the important details about the event.
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The Enforcement Directorate raided more than 25 locations in UP, Gujarat, and Jharkhand over 40 hours, over a large illicit money laundering cough syrup racket. Officials found that over 700 fake firms were set up in the name of 220 operators. The firms were found to be generating billions of rupees. In the Enforcement Case Information Report (ECIR), 67 people were named as accused in the case. It was found to be the states largest codeine-based cough syrup diversion and trafficking racket. Factories, warehouses, and residences linked to the accused were raided. The firms existed only on paper, and many of their authorised individuals were also only found on documents. ED sources said that more of the key links in the firms were being exposed, which will lead to more evidence. The body is also moving to seize assets from the masterminds behind the racket, Subham Jaiswal, Alok singh, another man who is a close associate of a former MP, and Amit Tata managed to get away last year eve after the STF conducted an investigation. ED sources said that large cash transactions were found in the bank accounts of Subham Jaiswal and the other two names. Subhams father, Bhola Prasad Jaiswal, is also a person of interest in the case. Some of the firms involved in the transactions were in Ranchi and Ahmedabad. In Uttar Pradesh, locations in Lucknow, Saharanpur, Varanasi, and Ghaziabad. The EDs ECIR enables the agency to summon suspects, freeze bank accounts, seize evidence, and attack properties acquired through illicit proceeds. The report was based on 24 FIRs registered over the past year by UP police, STF and FSDA across districts. Subham Jaiswal, who is the alleged mastermind behind the racket, was issued a notice to appear before the ED on December 8. More summons are expected as the financial probe expands.
Red Dead Redemption 2 free download rumoured as leaked list reveals upcoming giveaway dates
Interest in the Red Dead Redemption franchise has spiked in the wake of the original games re-release. The renewed attention also coincides with Rockstar Games confirming that Grand Theft Auto VI has been delayed until November 2026.
IPL 2026 Auction: Clear About Our Targets To Complete Our Squad, Says DC CEO
CEO Sunil Gupta: Delhi Capitals' (DC) CEO Sunil Gupta said the franchise is clear in the players they wish to target and complete their squad ahead of the Indian Premier League (IPL) 2026 auction, to be held at the Etihad Arena in Abu Dhabi on Tuesday. DC, the IPL 2020 runners-up, head into the mini auction with a purse of Rs 21.80 crore and have to fill eight slots, including five in the overseas category. We have arrived in Abu Dhabi, and our preparations for the auction have been underway for quite some time. Our scouting team has done an excellent job, and we are clear about our targets as we look to complete the remaining requirements of the squad. While we will be aggressive where needed, auctions are dynamic, and flexibility is key. Were looking forward to the auctions in Abu Dhabi, said Gupta in a statement issued by the franchise on Monday. DCs priorities at the auction include finding a reliable opener to partner KL Rahul, with Jake Fraser-McGurk inconsistent and Faf du Plessis opting out of IPL 2026. The franchise also needs reinforcements in the pace bowling department, considering T. Natarajan is injury-prone, and Mitchell Starc would come after a gruelling time in the Ashes. Veteran pacer Mohit Sharmas retirement has left another gap in the fast bowling department. Getting a middle-order overseas batter is on the radar of DC too, alongside the possibility of including a reliable foreign allrounder. We have retained a solid group of players from last season. While we narrowly missed out on qualifying for the playoffs, it was a campaign filled with important learnings. We take those lessons forward and go again with a strong set of players, fully focused on achieving our objectives, added Gupta. Veteran pacer Mohit Sharmas retirement has left another gap in the fast bowling department. Getting a middle-order overseas batter is on the radar of DC too, alongside the possibility of including a reliable foreign allrounder. Also Read: Live Cricket Score Nitish is a seasoned IPL campaigner and a valuable addition to our squad. His familiarity with home conditions, being a local boy, along with the crucial roles he has played for his previous franchises, makes him a natural fit for our setup. We are absolutely delighted to welcome him to the Delhi Capitals family. Our boy is truly home, concluded Gupta. Article Source: IANS
EC announces date for Maharashtra civic body polls: Voting on January 15, results to be out next day
The Maharashtra State Election Commission (SEC) on Monday announced the much-awaited polls to the state's 29 municipal corporations, including Mumbai. Elections will be held on January 15, and votes will be counted on January 16, said State Election Commissioner Dinesh Waghmare. The prominent civic bodies going to polls include Mumbai, Navi Mumbai, Thane, Pune, Nashik, Nagpur and Chhatrapati Sambhajinagar. As many as 2,869 seats in these municipal corporations will be up for grabs, said the SEC. The nomination process will begin on December 23 and go on till December 30, he added. Scrutiny of papers will be done on December 31 and January 2 will be the last date of withdrawal of nominations, he said. Symbol allocation and final list of candidates will be published on January 3. The 29 civic bodies, including the Brihanmumbai Municipal Corporation (BMC), have 2,869 seats on offer and 3.48 crore voters are eligible to exercise their franchise in these major urban centres of the state. (With inputs from PTI)
Polls for BMC, 28 other municipal corporations on Jan. 15, vote count on Jan. 16
29 civic bodies, including the Brihanmumbai Municipal Corporation, have 2,869 seats on offer and 3.48 crore voters are eligible to exercise their franchise in these major urban centres of the State
IPL Auction 2026: Live Streaming, Date, Venue & When It Will Be Held Complete Schedule & Details
IPL Auction 2026 date, time, venue, and timing: The 2026 IPL mini auction is set for December 16th in Abu Dhabi, with 10 franchises vying for 77 spots using a Rs 237.55 crore purse. Kolkata Knight Riders boast the largest budget. Expect fierce bidding for all-rounders like Cameron Green and Venkatesh Iyer as teams strategically fill squad needs.
IPL 2026 Auction: Green, Livingstone, Bishnoi On Radar As Teams Get Ready To Make Big Buys
Syed Mushtaq Ali Trophy: The spotlight will be on the likes of Cameron Green, Liam Livingstone and Ravi Bishnoi as ten franchises gear up for the IPL 2026 auction, set to take place at the Etihad Arena in Abu Dhabi on Tuesday. It will mark the third straight time of an IPL auction happening outside India after Dubai (2024) and Jeddah (2025). All ten teams are expected to loosen their purse strings in pursuit of marquee talent and have a squad which can win the IPL 2026 trophy. A total of 77 slots are available, including 31 for overseas players. Three-time winners Kolkata Knight Riders (KKR) have the most vacancies with 13, followed by 2016 champions Sunrisers Hyderabad (SRH) with ten. From a longlist of 1,355 players, 359 have been shortlisted 244 Indian and 115 overseas. Forty players have entered at the maximum base price of Rs 2 crore, with Bishnoi and Venkatesh Iyer the only Indians in that group. Green, Australias seam-bowling all-rounder, is expected to be the biggest draw, thanks to the skewed demand-supply ratio in a mini IPL auction, with bids for him projected to cross Rs 25 crore. Apart from Bishnoi and Green, the England duo of Liam Livingstone and Jamie Smith, along with NZ pacer Matt Henry, keeper-batter Tim Seifert and South Africa batter David Miller, are also likely to attract strong interest from all ten teams, as is Sri Lanka pacer Matheesha Pathirana, who was let go of by Chennai Super Kings (CSK). KKR head into the auction with the largest purse at Rs 64.30 crore, while five-time winners Chennai Super Kings (CSK) have Rs 43.40 crore, with both teams eyeing to rebuild their squads after a poor IPL 2025 season. In contrast, five-time winners Mumbai Indians and Punjab Kings might have quiet auctions due to their purses of Rs 2.75 crore and Rs 11.5 crore, respectively. What remains certain is that no overseas player can earn more than Rs 18 crore, regardless of the winning bid. Under the IPLs maximum-fee rule, the cap is fixed at the lower of the highest retention slab - Rs 18 crore - or the top price from the previous mega auction, which was Rs 27 crore for India wicketkeeper-batter and Lucknow Super Giants skipper Rishabh Pant. Among the uncapped names, Jammu & Kashmirs seam-bowling all-rounder Auqib Nabi and Rajasthan pacer Ashok Sharma have drawn interest from coaches and scouts who have been seeing all games of state-run T20 leagues and Syed Mushtaq Ali Trophy. What remains certain is that no overseas player can earn more than Rs 18 crore, regardless of the winning bid. Under the IPLs maximum-fee rule, the cap is fixed at the lower of the highest retention slab - Rs 18 crore - or the top price from the previous mega auction, which was Rs 27 crore for India wicketkeeper-batter and Lucknow Super Giants skipper Rishabh Pant. Also Read: Live Cricket Score The auction will move into an accelerated round after the first 70 players are presented, with franchises then nominating unsold names for further bidding. As this is a mini-auction, the Right to Match (RTM) card will not be available to teams. Article Source: IANS
IPL 2026 auction: Green, Venkatesh, Livingstone in focus as KKR, CSK ready to loosen purse strings
The mini-auction is always more intriguing than the mega auction as franchises come with specific choices and are always ready to go the distance to procure the services of players with distinct skill-sets
OTT releases this week (Dec 15-21): Top 10 picks for binge watch
Hyderabad: After a slow few days for streaming audiences, OTT platforms are finally back with a packed lineup of new movies and web series. From crime thrillers and psychological dramas to romantic comedies and global franchise returns, this week offers something for every kind of viewer. Popular international shows like Emily in Paris and Fallout Get the latest updates in Hyderabad City News , Technology , Entertainment , Sports , Politics and Top Stories on WhatsApp & Telegram by subscribing to our channels. You can also download our app for Android and iOS .
IPL Auction: Star attractions, key targets & the battles that will define the night
The IPL Auction 2026 mini-auction prioritizes precision over volume, with a significant demand for seam-bowling all-rounders like Cameron Green. Franchises with substantial purses, particularly KKR and CSK, are poised to shape the bidding landscape. The auction will focus on fit and scarcity, with premium players commanding high prices despite potential salary caps.
IPL Auction 2026: Top 5 overseas bowlers in focus
Indian Premier League Auction 2026: The IPL 2026 mini-auction on December 16 in Abu Dhabi features 359 players, with teams seeking to rebuild squads after surprising player releases. Key bowlers to watch include Matheesha Pathirana, Jacob Duffy, Mujeeb Ur Rahman, Lungi Ngidi, and Matt Henry, all with a base price of INR 2 crore. Intense bidding is expected as franchises target experienced overseas pacers and spinners.
Exclusive | 'Four-Day Tests need better over rates: Tom Moody
Tom Moody, Desert Vipers Director of Cricket, believes the ILT20s biggest success lies in accelerating UAE's domestic talent. He stressed that smart auctions are about needs, not wants, highlighted the evolution of coaching with changing players, and urged crickets governing bodies to protect Test cricket amid franchise growth even if that means exploring four-day Tests with stricter over-rate discipline.
Franchise boom vs Test cricket: Tom Moodys honest take
Franchise boom vs Test cricket: Tom Moodys honest take
